A project has begun to create a music video promoting Rutland. Uppingham actor and writer Henry Dawe explains,

'Richard Cole, High Sheriff of Rutland, asked me to write the lyrics to a new Rutland song which would praise the county and involve the community. Last year's High Sheriff Geraldine Feehally, as a Trustee of the Rutland Youth Choirs, asked Susie Hill, their Director, to compose the music to the song which her choirs would record. We saw the potential for this to be a music video rather than purely a song to listen to. In this way we could include scenes from many locations which would showcase Rutland and everything that it has to offer as a tourist destination.

The project has developed from the original idea and is no longer specifically connected to the High Sheriff, as it was felt that the song would have a wider reach if it were linked to Discover Rutland. I am pleased that Discover Rutland have kindly agreed to promote the music video online and we hope that it will do lasting good for the county.'

To finance its production, Henry will stage comedy shows at Uppingham Theatre on Thursday 24 and Friday 25 October, by kind permission of Uppingham School. Entitled Cheer Upp!, the evenings will offer a radio-style entertainment featuring solo patter and sketches, bringing together other actors for the fundraising. Entry is free but cash donations to the project will be gratefully received.

The shows start at 7.30pm, with the doors and bar opening at 7pm. Tickets are available in Oakham Wines, High Street, Oakham; The Falcon Hotel, Market Place, Uppingham; and at www.wegotttickets.com – search 'Cheer Upp'.

Wheelchair spaces are limited. For access queries please telephone 07866 152646.