Today marks the 25th anniversary of Rutland regaining its independence as a county. Several community figures reflect on the significance of the event and what Rutland means to them.
25 years ago today the county signs returned and there were celebrations on Rutland Water as Rutland finally regained its independence from Leicestershire after a hard fought campaign totalling 23 years. Several community figures have been speaking to Rutland and Stamford Sound, explaining their thoughts and feelings on the historic event.
Trevor Ellis drove an independence truck around the country and Peter Jones was Chairman of Oakham Chamber of Trade at the time:
“I think a lot of good has come out of it” says Trevor “far more than if we had stayed where we were.”
Peter says that after he and Trevor became local councillors, he felt he was finally able to do something for the community of Rutland whereas previously he had felt helpless against local issues which were often vetoed by Leicestershire.
Andrew Makey, who was Chairman of Rutland District Council at the time, remembers he hoped the new county wouldn’t cost tax payers any more. Unfortunately, though, government rules changed, and Rutland has been paying the price since:
“I think my famous phrase was that this would all be ‘cost neutral’ ”says Andrew. “In the end it did cost more because the Revenue Support Grant was taken away. [Previously] if you had a sparse population you received extra money. The Government took that away and that did leave a bit of a financial hole.”
Current Chairman of Rutland County Council, Jeff Dale, says there is a lot of affection for the county locally:
“I always say that Rutland is the jewel in the crown of England” enthuses Jeff. “I just love the county and obviously everybody who lives here does as well. We all work together and try to do our best for it.”
Rutland was a district of Leicestershire from 1974 until 1997, following the Local Government Act of 1972. It regained its independent status only after a long-running campaign by local councillors, residents, and communities. The history of Rutland, however, goes back to Norman times when, in 1129 AD, the office of High Sherriff of Rutland was created. There has been a Lord Lieutenant of Rutland since the 16th Century.
There is a display marking 25 years of Rutland’s independence at Rutland County Library in Oakham. The Rutland County Museum also hosts a wide range of historical artefacts and information for those who want to delve deeper into its long history. For more information click here: Rutland County Museum – Rutland's Hidden Treasure – now OPEN
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