Following boundary changes from Rutland and Melton, MP Alicia Kearns has announced the winners of her first independent shop awards for Rutland and Stamford, and over 20,000 votes were received, over 16 categories.
The most votes went to Stamford's hardware shop, Harrison & Dunn, with over 800 cast. The category winners and runners up were spread across Oakham, Stamford, and several villages. Alicia says it's been wonderful to shine a light on some of the most well-loved local businesses.
"It has been just the most tremendous honour and joy to go round and share with independent shops that they have won the awards this year. Well over 20,000 votes were cast and it's just so lovely to be able to support people that are so important to our local economy, you know, important to local employment and who so often feel forgotten.
And I think what's really wonderful is some of the really small businesses hidden away in our villages who have won, who are just absolutely amazed. These shops really make our high streets and communities what they are. So I'm really grateful to everyone who took the time to vote, who showed their support for independent businesses and massive congratulations to everyone who won."
South Kesteven District Council is holding two workshops next month, including one in Stamford, which will help shape the council's view on Artificial Intelligence.
Ten personnel from RAF Wittering are taking part in a test of endurance and stamina this morning to raise money for CALM, a leading suicide prevention charity.
Restrictions continue at Rutland's tips at Cottesmore and North Luffenham as they're unable to take household waste until further notice, and now any upholstered furniture.
Fire and Rescue services that cover the Rutland and Stamford area are continuing to urge locals to look after the countryside and not use any sources of ignition.
Well over 13,000 visitors are expected at the Rutland Showground over the next three days for the second annual Rutland Flower Show, which promises to build even further on last year's successful first event.
The leader of Rutland County Council's Conservative opposition got cross-party support last night for her motions to ask the council to quiz the government on why they decided to join Rutland with all the Leicestershire districts in local government reorganisation and to seek a written assurance of Rutland ceremonial county status.
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