Rutland County Council successfully held its first ever virtual Full Council meeting yesterday.

The Wednesday meeting took place via online webinar, in order to adhere to government COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings.

Councillors began by approving new standing orders to govern the proceedings of virtual meetings.

Councillors also voted to give officers the authority to extend contracts for key services, such as waste collection and grounds maintenance, so that these services can continue to be delivered throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

This was followed by an update on COVID-19 in Rutland, after which councillors approved the continued use of emergency powers to support the Council's ongoing response to the virus.

Council leader Oliver Hemsley said: "This was the first time that a meeting of Rutland's Full Council has taken place online. Unsurprisingly, COVID-19 dominated the agenda.

"We are continuing to do all we can to help and support our local communities affected by the virus while also maintaining local services, wherever possible.

Coun Hemsley added: "Rutland's pandemic response remains our top priority and I would once again thank everyone involved in this vital work."

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The full agenda, reports and minutes for Full Council on Wednesday 20 May 2020 can be read online at: www.rutland.gov.uk/meetings.

Minutes from the meeting will be published in the next seven days.