Couple launch murder mystery business Red Herring Events Rutland

An entrepreneurial couple hope to bring a little intrigue and suspense to the area after launching a new murder mystery venture.

James and Martyne Bell are the owners of Red Herring Events Rutland, a new franchise of the international firm.

They will work with hotels, restaurants, self-catering ventures, country estates and private parties across Rutland, South Lincolnshire and beyond, providing deaths to order and mysteries to solve.

“We had purchased several murder mystery packages from Red Herring for fundraisers and dinner parties - hosting and acting in both styles,” Martyne explained.

“When Jo (Smedley - managing director) contacted us to say she was releasing another franchise we jumped at the chance.”

The couple live in a small village between Grantham and Sleaford, but call Stamford and Rutland their performing home.

“The societies I belong to are all part of The Friends of Stamford and Rutland Theatre Group,” said Martyne.

“I’ve been performing with amateur musical societies in and around Stamford and Rutland for over 20 years, singing, acting and dancing.”

She has just returned from touring a new musical, Sparkling Eyes, in Cambridge with Stamford Showstoppers, and is also director for College Players, another Stamford-based group.

The Players are currently rehearsing for a November production of The Sound of Music at Stamford Arts Centre.

Husband James, director of intrigue at Red Herring Rutland, is usually found backstage, but has performed in several plays at the Corn Exchange and is ready for his new role.

“He loves the village panto and regularly takes the lead,” Martyne added.

“He makes a great detective at our events and is the perfect host. It’s fab being able to kill people – legally!”