On Friday the 17th of June, Raymond Payne was elected as the new Councillor for the Oakham South Ward uncontested. He is a Liberal Democrat and replaces Ian Razzell.

Since the announcement, Cllr Ray Payne and the Liberal Democrats on Rutland County Council have shared his message to voters, had there been a formal election.

Ray Payne said: "Dear fellow resident,

"You wlll soon nave the opportunity to vote in the Oakham South by-election. This is your chance to elect our new county councillor. This election is taking place after yet another local Conservative resignation.

"It Is my hope that with your support, I can Jon your Iocal Lib Dem team and strengthen their position when opposing further reckless developments in our town. For too long our community has been taken for granted, but with your one we can help deliver a a positive change for Oakham South.

"I love living here in Oakham and feel great pride in being a part of our community. For the last several years, I have volunteered as driver for Volunteer Action Rutland, a role that has helped me gain a firm knowledge of our town, our county and the challenges faced by both.

"My professional career Involved me In both the Educational and Mental Health spheres. I spent the majority of my life working with children and young adults who often had learning difficulties, coupled with emotional and behavioural challenges.

"It Is with great regret that I have seen the assistance and support that these young people so desperately need reduced even further in recent years. I know from my own personal contacts and experience that parents and children with special needs living in Oakham and Rutland face a daily battle in trying to obtain the help that they need. As your councillor, I would work tirelessly to address this.

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"Additionally, as a resident of Oakham, I am also deeply aware of the huge volume of development our town is being subjected to. If elected, I will join your existing Oakham South Lib Dems, Joanna Burrows and Paul Browne, in opposing any further unwanted development in our Town. There is strength is numbers and as our team grows in Rutland, so does our ability to oppose further developments.

"Best wishes, Ray Payne"

Find out more about this most recent election here.

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