A freelance journalist has created offices in Oakham to help workers who are bored at home to be more productive and creative.

Stephanie Ross, who is from Scotland, but now lives in Langham, launched Desk & Company last autumn, as previously reported by Nub News.

The premises in Mill Street are set to re-open on Tuesday April 6.

Stephanie, who offers a full range of editorial services, told Nub News: "As a freelancer I have always found co-working spaces invaluable as I don't like working by myself – I can't get motivated. I like having people around to bounce ideas off, and I like the routine of leaving the house to go to work. But I also don't like beige and boring, I want to work from somewhere a bit more creative and inspiring."

After moving to Rutland from Winchester three years ago, she searched high and low for somewhere suitable, but found she wanted simply didn't exist.

Stephanie continued: "So I decided to set it up myself. I kept my eye out for a suitable space, and in summer 2020 I found the Mill Street location.

"It needed a bit of TLC and a complete revamp, but over the course of September last year I gutted the premises and redecorated it from head to toe. I had to keep some of the more retro fittings, such as old gas fires, but I went with that and aimed for a kind of 1970s vibe!"

The offices are aimed at anyone who wants to work from an office environment close to home.

Stephanie explained: "That can be freelancers, small teams or businesses, or anyone who has had to work from home due to Covid. We offer everything from a day's hotdesking (that you can book directly online) to long term office rental for up to four people. There are printing facilities, superfast broadband, and free tea and coffee."

However, the lockdowns have made for frustrating times, with the venture having to close soon after opening for the November lockdown and then again for the New Year lockdown.

"Both times I was just building up a bit of momentum – people were using the space and really enjoying it, and word was beginning to spread. And then I had to shut up shop, and start all over again with the reopening."

Hopefully, it will be third time lucky next month and Prime Minister Boris Johnson will stick to his 'roadmap' and not lockdown again.

Stephanie said: "Opening straight after Easter, Tuesday 6 April. It's Easter school holiday then, so great timing for anyone who struggles to work from home when the kids are around.

"I would just say that Covid has been long and stressful for everyone, and many people have had to 'make do' working at home. I myself did it for six years, and I know the pitfalls. It can be great – but it can also be lonely and mentally challenging.

"We offer a friendly space that is about getting your work done, but also where you can have a chat, share a laugh and a cup of tea and generally recreate a happy office environment. My tagline is 'Find the place you love to work', and I think that's exactly what we offer."