Two familiar faces have joined the ranks of Oakham Town Council in a special meeting yesterday (6 November). 

Martin Brookes and Barry Buxton were co-opted onto Oakham Town Council last night (Wednesday), along with Anna Douthwaite, who did not attend the meeting. 

Former county councillor Alan Walters had put also put himself forward for co-option.  

The co-option was wrapped up in less than five minutes. None of the four councillors in attendance asked any questions of the candidates before voting them on. Their joining now takes the numbers on the council to ten. 

Councillors Brookes and Buxton have served on the council in the past. Councillor Buxton, 80, stood down a few months ago due to ill health but has decided to return. 

This is Councillor Brookes' third stint on the authority. In the past he has had disputes with former members. 

He said: "I'm excited to have been co-opted onto the council once again. The council has undergone significant changes since those difficult times, and I'm impressed by the current members' dedication to improving Oakham. Their focus on supporting local businesses and enhancing the town centre aligns with my own goals. 

"I'm eager to contribute to this positive momentum and work alongside the team to make Oakham an even better place for residents and visitors." 

The authority has been in flux in recent months. Chairman Adam Lowe stood down last month due to new work commitments and was replaced by Councillor Paul Ainsley. 

The town authority is now keen to work with Rutland County Council to come up with plans to regenerate the high street. 

The two councils organised a meeting of traders last month and will now collate the suggestions raised and consider next steps.