NEWS The best ‘good news’ stories from across the county including Uppingham’s delight at being named best place to live in the East Midlands.

Uppingham ‘is the best place to live!’

TIMES NEWSPAPER DECLARES UPPINGHAM IS THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS

The Sunday Times newspaper named Uppingham as being the best place to live in the Midlands recently, describing the town as being a ‘feast for the eyes.’ “The article states that the market town is a place that cares about appearances and that life here is ‘pleasingly traditional,’” says Uppingham Group’s Cllr Ron Simpson. “The Uppingham Fatstock Show in November gets a mention as does the April Stilton Cheese Classic Vehicle Run. In 2020 Uppingham was also voted in a national survey as the best place to live in the UK.” “It currently has around 2,000 dwellings and a population of just under 5,000.” “The news of Uppingham’s further recognition also comes as no surprise to the organisers of the annual Uppingham In Bloom competition who regularly win awards for their achievements. The town can also boast hosting an East Midlands Outstanding Neighbourhood Award

UPPINGHAM winner, The Beeches, with its elegant executive homes and 1Gb Gigaclear ‘fibre to the premise’ broadband network connected to every dwelling,” adds Ron.

Image: Discover Rutland.

“Rutland’s worst kept secret has now made the national news, and we’re absolutely delighted!” n For more information on the town see uppinghamfirst.co.uk.

Happy retirement, Tim!

SENIOR PARTNER AT HEGARTY SOLICITORS RETIRES AFTER CAREER SPANNING 45 YEARS

Prominent local solicitor Tim Thompson, Senior Partner at Hegarty Solicitors, is set to retire this month after a legal career spanning 45 years. Tim joined the firm in 1977 and became a partner in 1979. In his time at the firm he has dealt with a range of legal areas including criminal defence and prosecutions, residential and commercial property transactions and employment law. Well-known and respected amongst the Peterborough business community, assisting HR teams and employers

PETERBOROUGH navigate the complex world of employment law, Tim is known for his helpful, friendly and proactive approach. He has been a regular speaker at employment law seminars, offering advice to HR professionals throughout the area. “I have enjoyed seeing the firm expand over the years, to operating with branches in Peterborough, Stamford and Oakham. “We have a dynamic team who are committed to delivering exceptional service to clients and I am confident the firm will continue to go from strength to strength.” n

Planting Jubilee Trees

DIGGING IN FOR QUEEN’S GREEN CANOPY

Oakham School pupils have been ‘digging in’ to the celebrations for Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee by planting trees across the campus for The Queen’s Green Canopy. With the support of Mr Henry Price, Headmaster at Oakham School, and Mr Morris, Head of the Lower School, pupils from the Lower, Middle and Upper School (10 to 18 year olds) grabbed their gardening tools and planted the

OAKHAM trees in locations across the School where they would be able to flourish. The students were keen to get involved in a sustainable project at the School and learn more about planting and maintaining trees. “The Queen’s Green Canopy was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to contribute to the Jubilee celebrations and play their part in supporting the local environment and ecology,” added Henry. n

Vying for National Pub & Bar awards title...

CLIPSHAM This month will see the overall winner crowned in the National Pub and Bar of the Year competition, with over 90 venues competing, including Clipsham’s Olive Branch. The pub is already a GQ Food & Drink Awards winner and it is recognised in the Good Pub Guide 2021. Founded by Sean Hope, Ben Jones and Marcus Welford in 1999, it’s still regarded as one of the best pub restaurants in the UK. n See theolivebranchpub.com.

Burghley tickets go on sale

2022 LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR EVENT FROM 1st-4th SEPTEMBER...

STAMFORD It’s back following a two year break, and tickets are on sale now! Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2022 is expected to be better than ever, with 80 elite horse and rider combinations drawn from across the globe, taking part in what is recognised as eventing’s greatest contest, and one which remains one of only two five-star eventing fixtures events in the UK. A new event director Martyn Johnson and new cross country course designer Derek di Grazia, are set to bring fresh impetus to 2022’s event. n Advance admission ticket prices start at £22; for further information and to book, visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk. Over 12,000 visitors are expected to enjoy this year’s Rutland County Show, the first since 2019, on

RUTLAND Saturday 4th June. The event is held on 150 acres of showground and spread over 13 fields. It will include over 100 trade stands, plus 400 sheep, 70 cattle and 90 heavy horses. See our feature later in this edition. n

12,000 Visitors

LOCAL NEWS

In Brief

RUTLAND County welcomes Ukraine refugees...

Over 20 households across Rutland so far have volunteered to be sponsors of Ukrainian refugees. They will provide accommodation for Ukrainian adults, children and young people for as long as possible, as well as helping guests to adapt to life in the UK and directing them to public services, for example registering with a GP or dentist. Rutland County Council is also providing coordinated support from property inspections, safety checks, administering payments, and providing support to access benefits, employment and education. n

Belvoir Castle’s new accommodation

DUCHESS’S NEW BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION NEXT TO THE ENGINE YARD

Her Grace The Duchess of Rutland has launched her new boutique holiday stay accommodation for overnight stays on its rural castle estate in the beautiful Vale of Belvoir. Vale House is adjacent to Belvoir Castle and its luxury retail and food development, The Engine Yard. Vale House is a newly refurbished boutique guest house located at the foot of the Castle at the vibrant artisan village with its independent shops, bar and The Fuel Tank restaurant. Perfect for overnight stays, the bespoke rooms have all been beautifully designed and detailed by the Duchess. Vale House also revealed the Duchess’s Parlour in the building, a champagne and tea parlour located on the ground floor of Vale House, which will also serve as a breakfast area for guests. Open to non-residents too the parlour has colourful jewel colours, butterfly wallpaper, mirrored bar, hand-painted pink teardrop chandeliers and bespoke ‘Her Grace’ china.

GRANTHAM It will be open to all Engine Yard visitors from Thursday to Sunday each week offering a seasonal menu of summer salads, seafood platters, canapés and bubbles.

Image: Jon Scrimshaw, Instinctive Photography.

It’s perfect for light lunches and afternoon tea, with pre-booking strongly recommended. n See www.belvoirestate holidays.com/vale-house

LOCAL NEWS

In Brief

A GRIZZLY TRIO OF TALES IN NEW BOOK BY LOCAL AUTHOR...

Oakhams writer and historian Mike Nason has released a new book, Three Rutland Stories, which retells three local events from the C18th and C19th. The three stories follow the publication of The Empingham Poachers which will be on sale alongside the new book in Walkers Books, priced £7. n

Award for Estate Agency

MARKETING ACTIVITIES RECOGNISED FOR RUTLAND AND STAMFORD’S FINE & COUNTRY...

RUTLAND & STAMFORD Estate agents Fine & Country Rutland and Stamford were honoured to have been awarded ‘Best Real Estate Marketing Europe’ at the International Property Awards, which was held at The Savoy Hotel recently. “Widely known as one of the industry’s largest and most prestigious award ceremonies where only the highest quality of products and companies are allowed to enter, we are thrilled to have had our hard work recognised in this way,” says Ildi Toth, Client & Office Manager. n For more information see www.fineandcountry.com.

LODDINGTON, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE OIEO £1,700,000

A beautifully presented, non-listed, former farmhousewith a stunning detached annex and grounds of circa 20 acres which include a paddock, woodland and orchard. The property has been meticulously maintained and updated whilst retaining superb original features.Ground floor comprises a central reception hallway, a sitting room, a country style kitchen/breakfast room and a reception/dining room with exposed beams and an inglenook fireplace with original bread oven and wood burner. On the first floor is a bright study area, principal bedroom with luxurious en suite bathroom and four further double bedrooms, two of which have en suites. The annex is quite spectacular and features a reception hall with open fireplace, kitchen and mezzanine. There are two double bedrooms both with en suites. Outbuildings include stables, garden stores and car port and the property set in approx. 20 acres of grounds.

THORPE BY WATER, RUTLAND Guide Price £1,300,000

Situated just outside the popular village of Thorpe by Water in a picturesque Welland Valley, close to Seaton, with views onto open fields and rolling countryside, this plot offers a prestigious development opportunity to construct a small, modern, country house estate, subject to determination of the current planning application. The proposed dwelling is designed to impress, with its Georgian style front elevation, spacious and airy entrance hall, ample entertaining space, six en suite double bedrooms, cinema room and leisure complex with indoor swimming pool and sauna. There is also a proposed plan for an attached triple garage with annex accommodation above and the property will sit on approx. 6 acres (subject to measured survey). Current Planning Application, Ref. No. 2021/1469/FULPrevious Consented Planning Application, Ref. No. 2018/0197/FULvia Rutland County Council.

NEW

UPPINGHAM £510,000

Immaculately presented detached house, equipped to a high standard and occupying enviable position within a desirable area with views over allotments to the rear. Lounge, superb open-plan Living Dining Kitchen, useful Utility Area, Cloakroom/WC, Master Bedroom with refitted en-suite Shower Room, three further Bedrooms, refurbished Family Bathroom with claw-foot roll-top bath and shower cubicle. Garage, landscaped Gardens. Energy Rating: C.

SEATON £595,000

Charming mid-19th century detached cottage with sympathetic modern extension combining character with contemporary style, occupying a large plot with stunning views over the village cricket ground. The property provides spacious and flexible accommodation, immaculately presented throughout whilst retaining an array of period features. 3 Reception Rooms, Conservatory, Living Dining Kitchen, Utility, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bath-/Shower Rooms; Dbl Garage. Energy Rating: F.

BRAUNSTON IN RUTLAND Guide Price £645,000

A delightful character property set on a select development of seven Mews Style houses set in the heart of a fine conservation village. The well-proportioned and tastefully appointed accommodation sympathetically combines period features and charm with modern high quality fixtures and fittings. Sitting Room, Conservatory, open-plan Kitchen/Diner, Clkrm/WC, Master Bedroom with en-suite Shower Room, 2 further dbl Bedrooms, Bathroom. Single Garage, Parking, Mature, Private Garden. Energy Rating: E.

NEW PRICE

BISBROOKE Offers Over £595,000

An attractive detached house offering spacious accommodation with high quality fixtures and fittings set in a desirable village location, close to the historic market town of Uppingham. Sitting Room, Family Room, Study, feature Dining Kitchen, Clkrm/WC, 4 Bedrooms, Master En-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; single Garage, off-road Parking, enclosed rear Garden. Energy Rating: C.

Offers in Excess Of £800,000 Offers In Excess Of £650,000

Field House, Wing

Field House is a four-bedroom, detached stone-built village home, hidden away in a quiet location within this sought-after Rutland village taking in some of the most wonderful views.

Guide Price £500,000 Larchwood Rise, Knossington

A beautifully-presented and substantial detached bungalow sitting at the head of a quiet cul-de-sac with stunning gardens sitting on the edge of this very popular East Leicestershire village.

Offers in Excess Of £220,000

Edmonton Way

A well-presented detached four-bedroom property located on a corner plot in a sought-after location within easy walking distance to Oakham town centre. Grove Cottage, Somerby

Grove Cottage is a characterful three-bedroom, end of terrace property, fully renovated and immaculately presented throughout, in an elevated position with open countryside views.

How to win the Bidding Game

Kate Vincent from Garrington Property Finders describes how a growing number of buyers are being invited to submit ‘Best and Final’ offers and suggests how to handle these situations.

Even with spring prompting more homeowners to consider selling their properties, the acute imbalance between the number of homes for sale and active buyers remains, creating fierce competition for the best properties and continuing upward pressure on house prices.

One way for selling agents to handle these pressurised conditions is to invite interested parties to submit ‘Best and Final’ offers; not always the most popular means of selecting a successful bid as many buyers dislike the pressure and somewhat impersonal nature of the process. However, in this challenging and competitive market it is frequently considered the fairest and most decisive way to select a winning bid.

What are ‘Best and Final’ offers?

‘Best and Final’ offers are used by selling agents when there are several attractive buyers competing for the same property. Similar to ‘Sealed Bids’ where offers are sealed in an envelope and all opened at the same time, ‘Best and Final’ offers are submitted in writing, usually via email, by a fixed time and date. The agent will review the offers and share the contents, and their recommendations, with their selling clients who usually make a final decision relatively quickly.

What to include

As well as the amount you wish to offer, it is important to explain your position in order to proceed: your access to finance, whether you will be buying with cash or a mortgage, and if you are in a chain, under offer or have nothing to sell. It is often helpful to explain your personal circumstances as well as expectations of timescales, and it can be prudent to have engaged a solicitor in advance so you can also share their details.

How to bid successfully

Winning bids are not always the highest price, so understanding the sellers’ motivation to sell is of paramount importance. Of course, every seller wants to achieve a ‘good’ price, so it is important to do your homework to understand the prices similar properties have sold for recently and the relative rarity of the property that you are attempting to purchase. Aside from the amount, the ability to act particularly quickly or slowly, the appeal of your circumstances, the lack of onerous conditions or your long-term plans for the property may also affect your chances – all of which depends on the motivation of the vendor.

Get help

Submitting ‘Best and Final’ offers can be stressful and easily mis-played. Whatever the outcome, it is important to feel that you have given it your best whilst not getting too carried away. An experienced professional property finder may increase your chances of success by helping you present your offer in the most enticing manner whilst ensuring your goals are achieved.

If you are considering moving this Spring and would like more information about how to better navigate your local property market, contact Kate Vincent to arrange a no-obligation discussion.

Kate Vincent Garrington

Tel. 01780 408377. Email info@garrington.co.uk www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

Better Together?

Most people will have had several jobs before they retire, which means they may also have several pension pots. What are your options?

Image: Ellie Dean, www.ellideanphotography.co.uk.

PENSION CONSOLIDATION allows you to round up all of your existing plans and transfer them to a scheme where they sit together under one roof. This makes them easier to manage with less admin and paperwork which in turn reduces the likelihood that some of your savings will go missing. Merging your pensions together could save you money on charges. If you have got multiple plans with different providers, you will be paying for the administration of each one which makes it difficult to keep track of the overall cost. It’s also not very cost-effective, especially if some of the providers are expensive, since fees eat into your investment returns and the amount of money you have when you retire. Moving providers can help you make big savings if you’re cutting down on annual fees. It can also reduce the cost and improve investment performance along with potentially more flexibility. All this could result in a higher income and a more comfortable retirement. You might even be able to stop working earlier. While it’s common for people close to retirement to think about consolidating their pensions, it’s also an option for younger workers who have accumulated a number of plans already. Combining your pensions might give you greater freedom and choice with your retirement savings. Some schemes that were established before the dawn of pension freedoms in 2015 may not be as flexible as newer pensions. Before 2015, the majority of retirees had to buy an annuity – or guaranteed income for life. Income drawdown, otherwise known as flexi- access drawdown, came into effect in 2015. This allows people to withdraw money from their pensions from the age of 55. However, if you remain invested in an older pension, it may not have the option for income drawdown. This would mean that you’d need to transfer out of your pension in order to start income drawdown.

If you are transferring out of a final salary scheme worth more than £30,000, you have to get advice first from a fully qualified financial adviser.

Consolidating pensions can be a timeconsuming process and you will need to gather all of the plan details, contact the various providers, complete application forms and seek a new pension provider. BCM have years of experience in helping clients’ consolidate and transfer their pensions and if you are unsure whether switching out of a scheme is the right move. A good place to start is with our review service, you can chat to our pension’s specialist team at BCM Wealth Management. Our approach to planning your retirement is transparent, honest, and designed to meet your requirements. We want to support you with all your retirement planning needs and help you to maximise the potential growth within your pension funds over your chosen timescale.

BCM Wealth Management Ltd is an appointed representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management product and service, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. n

BCM Wealth Management Ltd is an appointed representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management product and service, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s place representatives.

You can chat to our pensions specialist team at BCM Wealth Management, based at 5 Ironmonger Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PL www.bcmwealth.co.uk 01780 437500