Latest news with #RugbyFirst


BBC News
a day ago
- Business
- BBC News
Rugby's longest-serving ranger Rob Hallam leaves after 20 years
A town has said goodbye to its longest-serving ranger – one of the people that patrols the streets helping to deter crime, deal with emergencies and first aid situations and talk to businesses and First ranger Rob Hallam and his wife have moved on to new jobs after nearly 20 years of Lowne, business director for Rugby First, which is a business-funded body working to improve the town, said Mr Hallam had been a "real life hero" and had helped to save more than 20 lives while on duty in the town centre over two Hallam said it had been "a real privilege" to play his part. Mr Hallam said the fondest memory of his time patrolling the Warwickshire town was when the Olympic torch relay came through in 2012."It was an amazing experience to see the Olympic flame, something I'll probably never see again."Mr Hallam said he believed the town had a "bright future" ahead, with exciting redevelopments planned, and he urged people to "shop local and support the town". Miki Croner, owner of Jeans Flowers in Regent Street, said people were "gutted" to hear Mr Hallam was leaving, adding: "It's a real shame that Rugby's losing him."The team of rangers had particularly helped to prevent shoplifting, business owners said, and Ms Croner added: "Having the presence of all of the rangers in Rugby town centre deters shoplifters a lot, so we feel a real benefit from Rugby First and the rangers' support."Helen Simmonds, owner of The Copper Tree, a gift shop in Chapel Street, said Mr Hallam was "a gentleman through and through".She said he had been a friendly and approachable presence in the town and it had been "fantastic" to have him around. Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.


BBC News
18-05-2025
- Automotive
- BBC News
Rugby town roads closed for Bikefest
A series of roads and car parks in Rugby are closed for a huge celebration of annual Bikefest is expected to attract thousands of people to the town on hundreds of bikers taking part in a ride-in, there is are bike displays, stalls, live music, children's activities and a Borough Council said North Street, Evreux Way, Old Market Square and Railway Terrace car parks would remain shut until 20:00 BST to allow them to host events. The John Barford multi-storey car park will open until 19:00 for event parking, while other council car parks are open as analysis firm Inrix warned of delays around the town and reported closures on roads between the council building, past the Market Place and across to railway is organised by Rugby First, in partnership with local motorbike groups and the borough Lowne, Rugby First Business Director, said the event was "a great opportunity for local businesses and start-ups to showcase what Rugby town centre has on offer" and is all about. Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.