Christmas Tree in Red Lion Square
Thank you for bearing with us while we waited for stormy weather to pass before fixing the tree in Red Lion Square. Extremely windy weather had caused the tree to tilt at an angle and, while safe, we wanted to rectify the situation so the Christmas Tree could be restored to its correct position.
We’re glad to say, thanks to the help of local farmer Andrew Hinch and Peter Glassey from Burghley Estate, the tree has today been repositioned and straightened.
Stamford Town Council would like to say a big thank you to Burghley Estate for the kind donation each year of a tree for the whole town to enjoy.
Notice of Vacancy
Please find a Notice of Vacancy in the Office of Councillor for St John's Ward
Festive concert in aid of Mayor's Charities
A large audience gathered in the historic Court Room at the Town Hall to enjoy an afternoon of performances from a range of talented singers.
The festive concert featuring the St Martin’s Singers was organised in aid of the Mayor’s Charities, MindSpace Stamford and Magpas Air Ambulance.
Tickets for the Advent Calendar Concert on December 1 sold out, helping to raise vital funds for both charities.
The packed programme was organised and compered by local musician Fergus Black, who played the piano during the concert. Julie Dearden played flute, and Ben Falkiner was on percussion.
Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, said: “It was fantastic to see such a good turnout at this special event, with a wealth of talented singers and musicians entertaining the crowd.
"What a perfect way to kick off the festive season while raising hundreds of pounds to support two important charities which both do so much to support the Stamford community”
Stamford's Virtual Christmas Market
Following the cancellation of Stamford Christmas Market, Stamford Town Council is offering a virtual Christmas Market featuring a range of products from the market traders who were due to take part in the event.
Due to Storm Bert, which caused significant disruption across the UK, the decision was taken to cancel the physical event on November 24 to ensure the safety of traders, visitors and residents.
The opportunity then arose to create a virtual market, signposting people to an online portal highlighting the digital shops of many of the traders who had booked to sell their wares at the Christmas Market. After hearing about the cancellation of the market, local business owner Paul Buckley volunteered to create and host Stamford’s Virtual Christmas Market.
The virtual market allows visitors to browse online shops and view social media pages to explore each trader’s range in more detail. From jewellery and home decor, to beer and pet treats, there are plenty of gift options for Christmas shoppers.
More businesses will be added in the coming days and the site has already received hundreds of hits.
Councillor Jo Winterbourne said: “It was extremely disappointing when we had to make the call to cancel the market, as so many traders had worked extremely hard to prepare for the event and were looking forward to a much-loved date in Stamford’s festive calendar.
“We’re so grateful to Paul Buckley for creating this opportunity for the businesses involved to showcase their products on another platform, providing a one-stop shop for those searching for the ideal Christmas gift.”
New councillors
Welcome to our two new councillors! Luke Chilman and Peter Copley have joined Stamford Town Council after being co-opted into available vacancies at November's Full Council meeting.
Councillor Luke Chilman will represent All Saint’s South Ward and Councillor Peter Copley will represent St George’s Ward.
Stamford Christmas Market cancelled
It is with a heavy heart that we've had to take the difficult decision to cancel this year's Stamford Christmas Market. With Storm Bert predicted to bring high winds to the area all day Sunday, the safety of market traders, residents, and visitors is paramount, and it is not considered safe to carry on with the event on Sunday.
We understand this is an extremely disappointing outcome and we are so grateful for the enthusiasm everybody has shown in playing a part in our Christmas Market.
Event Organiser Councillor Jo Winterbourne said: "We have done everything we can to try and make the Christmas Market happen, but it is just not deemed safe to continue with our plans for Sunday, which have been months in the making. We understand the inconvenience and disappointment caused, and we'd like to extend our sincere thanks to our traders for their interest in supporting this event. We hope to be back, and bigger than ever, in 2025."
An Advent Calendar Concert
A festive concert will be held at the Town Hall in aid of the Mayoral Charities, Mindspace and Magpas Air Ambulance.
On Sunday December 1 the public are warmly invited to join an afternoon of songs and instrumental pieces from Fergus Black, on the piano, and the St Martin’s Singers. Join in the Christmas spirit in the splendid Court Room at the Town Hall on St Mary’s Hill, with a glass of wine or soft drink included in the ticket price.
Tickets cost £12 for adults in advance, and £6 for school-age children. On the door prices, if available, will be £15 and £7.50 for children (cash only). The Advent Calendar Concert starts at 4pm and ends around 5.30pm.
Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, said: “I’m pleased to host this important event which is the perfect opportunity to kick off the festive season with some incredible performances while helping to raise vital funds for both important charities.”
Please follow this link to secure your tickets or pop into the Town Hall to buy them in person: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/highnotesmusicsociety/1443284
Certificate presentation to recognise service to Stamford
Stamford Town Council recently recognised the incredible contribution to the town made by long-standing Stamford Civic Society committee member Peter Stevens.
Peter instigated or played a leading part in many major projects completed by the Stamford Civic Society after he joined the group in 2001. Now retired from the Society, Peter was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, for his services to Stamford over an extended period of time.
His first project for the Stamford Civic Society involved working with other members on the restoration of St Leonard’s Priory, including on the medieval building itself. Peter went on to be part of numerous projects that benefitted the town, including Stamford’s Open Gardens initiative, the Blue Plaque installed to commemorate antiquary William Stukeley, and the replacement of the sundial at All Saints’ Church. He was heavily involved in projects to tackle graffiti, installing information boards explaining key features of the town and improvements to the Bastion and its grass verge on West Street.
Mayor Kelham Cooke said: “Peter has worked tirelessly for Stamford and this accolade is well deserved to highlight the incredible contribution he has made to the town”
Town Hall Tours
There’s still time to take a tour of our beautiful Town Hall before the season ends on November 22.
Join our knowledgeable guides and enjoy a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the treasures of the Town Hall. See the important collection of civic regalia and discover the Courtroom, Council Chamber and the Mayor’s Parlour. Our small group tours last around an hour and are free of charge.
Please note, we’ve changed our tour times to 12pm and 2pm each Friday. Just pop in on the day or prebook your space by calling 01780 753808 or emailing townhall@stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk
Inauguration of the Mayor of Stamford
An official inauguration was held for the Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, in the historic courtroom at Stamford Town Hall.
The evening started with a procession of the Civic Party entering the courtroom, led by the ceremonial maces and the 15th century wand of office from Stamford’s regalia collection.
The ceremony has been a time-honoured tradition embraced by other councils, but this is the first time Stamford Town Council has adopted the format.
During the ceremony, the Mayor takes an oath accepting the office and there is a presentation of the ceremonial robes of office and the chains of office. Ceremonial chains of office were also formally presented to the Mayoress Lois Simpson, Deputy Mayor Councillor Amanda Wheeler and the Deputy Mayor’s Consort Fergus Wheeler.
The Town Crier welcomed guests to the ceremony on September 26 and the Mayor’s Chaplain Rev. Fr. Neil Shaw provided a blessing. Musical fanfares were provided by Stamford Brass and a poem written for the occasion was read out by Stamford’s Poet Laureate Caroline Avnit.
During the ceremony medals were presented to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Andy Croft, and the outgoing Mayoress Ann Croft. A shield was also presented to outgoing Deputy Mayor Marion Pitt and recognition was given to the incoming Mayor’s Cadet.
Councillor Kelham Cooke was elected as Mayor of Stamford in May 2024, with a term of office lasting until May 2025. Due to the 2024 General Election, the official ceremony was postponed until September.
He said: “It’s a great honour to take up the esteemed role of Mayor of Stamford and I am privileged to be able to serve my hometown and work hard on behalf of the residents of the town.
“It’s an incredibly proud moment for me to take part in the official inauguration and I thank everybody who played a part in a splendid evening of ceremonial tradition and celebration. I look forward to a fantastic year of civic engagements as well as playing a part in the wealth of excellent community events that take place in the town.”
Battle of Britain
A parade and open-air service were held in Stamford to mark the 84th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.
On Sunday 15th September, which is the date commemorated as Battle of Britain Day, a mayoral procession left from the Town Hall before a parade of personnel from RAF Wittering, 2071 (Stamford) Squadron Air Cadets, members of the Royal British Legion, and Stamford Brass.
The Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, opened the event and a service was led by RAF Wittering Padre, the Reverend Squadron Leader Andrew Tucker, on the balcony at Browne’s Hospital on Broad Street. Stamford’s poet laureate Caroline Avnit read a poem written specially for the occasion.
A two-minute silence was held, and wreaths were laid at the War Memorial. There was also a fly past by the RAF Lancaster Bomber from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
The Battle of Britain was the first major battle fought entirely in the air, which took place between July and October 1940.
Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, said: “It is an honour to play a part in this important commemoration and pay tribute to the determination and sacrifice of those who fought in battle. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the close ties the town of Stamford shares with Royal Air Force Wittering, and we’re proud to have established such a close friendship with the station.”
RAF Wittering Station Executive Officer Squadron Leader Michael Masters said: “The Battle of Britain was a significant event in the history of the Royal Air Force, and it is a great honour to be able to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Few. Today is an important occasion and RAF Wittering is immensely grateful of the support that we receive from Stamford residents who recognise the bravery and loyalty of the Royal Air Force then and now.”
Notice of poll
Please find a Notice of Poll for the election of a town councillor for Stamford Town Council - St Mary's Ward.
Stamford Town Council announces new Town Clerk
Stamford Town Council has welcomed a new Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer to the team.
Sarah Dorson was selected to take up the Town Clerk role permanently after a period spent as Acting Town Clerk after Patricia Stuart-Mogg retired from the role earlier this year.
The role of Town Clerk involves looking after the daily operations of the council, ensuring compliance with its legal obligations and responsibilities, managing strategy, and providing support to elected Town Councillors.
Having worked for Stamford Town Council for more than seven years, Sarah holds a Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA). Her responsibilities also include continuing in the role of Burial Clerk.
Sarah, who previously worked as Deputy Town Clerk, said: “It is a privilege to formally accept the role of Town Clerk, and as a Stamfordian I am proud to have this opportunity to play a key part in shaping the future of Stamford Town Council and the town. Along with my team and our hard-working elected councillors, I look forward to working hard on behalf of the community to improve the experience of Stamford residents.
“Stamford is filled with people who have a great pride in our beautiful town, and I believe it’s such an exciting time to work together to maintain and develop initiatives which help to make Stamford such a great place for everyone who lives or who spends time here.”
Notice of Election
Please find a Notice of Election for the election of parish councillors (for the Parish Wards of St Mary's and St John's.
Youth Council meeting
Stamford Town Council has a vibrant Youth Council made up of students from a range of local schools and colleges. The youth councillors met in June to discuss a range of topics, including air quality in the town and the role of the Stamford Street Pastors. They also heard more about how Stamford Town Council uses a range of different channels to communicate with residents and stakeholders.
The Youth Council was set up by Stamford Town Council to help give the younger generation in Stamford a voice. Youth councillors meet regularly with councillors to discuss a range of different issues that are important to them.
If you’d like to find out more about getting involved, then please call 01780 753808 or email communications@stamfordtowncouncil.gov.uk
Notice of Vacancy in the office of councillor
Please find a Notice of Vacancy in the office of councillor (St Mary's Ward) and a Notice of Vacancy in the office of councillor (St John's Ward)
LAND AT QUARRY FARM, OLD GREAT NORTH ROAD, LITTLE CASTERTON, RUTLAND PLANNING APPLICATION
The Quarry Farm Planning Application Ref. 2022/0227/MAO is available to view on the Rutland County Council website. Please click HERE and enter the above reference number to view the documents and plans.
STAMFORD NORTH PLANNING APPLICATION
The Stamford North Planning Application (Ref. S23/0055) is available to view on the SKDC website. Please click HERE to view the documents and plans.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Lincolnshire County Council - County Views – we want to hear from you!
A panel of people from across Lincolnshire who help us to identify our priorities and shape future developments.
To take part in future engagement opportunities, please register on Let's Talk Lincolnshire and choose to be part of the panel. To find out more about County Views citizens' panel click here.
The County Views citizens’ panel gives the people of Greater Lincolnshire a voice and connects them with their local authorities. Join the panel to:
- tell us about what matters to you
- show us where we can improve
- help us deliver better services
Our panel is growing and expanding in new directions. We need this large panel of people from all ages and backgrounds to reflect the people and views of Greater Lincolnshire. The more of you that take part the stronger your voice becomes. We are listening and we share survey results on Let’s Talk Lincolnshire.
Make a difference for everyone - join the panel today! Register online at: www.letstalk.lincolnshire.gov.uk/register Or call: 01522 782116
To stay informed about all the latest major roadworks happening near you, visit www.gov.uk/government/organisations/highways-england to register for the
latest alerts. If you have any enquiries please contact the Highways England
Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000, or by e-mail to info@highwaysengland.co.uk
Permission to fly drones from open spaces in Stamford is required from both Stamford Town Council and RAF Wittering. To find out more information on flying drones and to view the Drone and Model Aircraft Code click HERE For drone safety information from the CAA please go to caa.co.uk/drones For drone safety information from NATS please go to nats.aero/airspace/drones/ For the commercial site Drone Safe Register go to dronesaferegister.org.uk/