Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has branded the early release of prisoners a "dilution of justice", urging the Government to accelerate prison expansion rather than continue easing overcrowding by releasing offenders early. He said today: "Justice must mean justice. When a sentence has been handed down by a judge entrusted to determine the appropriate punishment, it is wrong that it can be effectively reduced simply because the prison system has run out of space. "The prison capacity crisis is having consequences right across the criminal justice system. Building more prison places will help ensure offenders serve the sentences imposed by the courts and give police greater confidence that their work to bring criminals to justice is not being undermined." While welcoming additional funding to support victims affected by the early release scheme, the Commissioner said the policy risks sending the wrong message. "Victims must never feel as though they come second to the failures of the system. There is understandable frustration when offenders are released early while victims are left feeling overlooked and forgotten. "The priority must be restoring confidence that justice is being delivered as intended." Mr Matthews also stressed the need to ensure probation and other public services are properly resourced to manage those released early. "I want to be confident that probation services have the capacity to supervise offenders effectively and minimise the risk of reoffending. Without the right support, including access to housing and rehabilitation services, we risk creating further pressure on an already overstretched system." He added that the prison crisis is creating knock-on effects throughout the criminal justice system. "The criminal justice system is only as strong as its weakest link. When one part comes under strain, the consequences are felt across policing, the courts, probation and victim services. There is little point in police putting offenders before the courts if the wider system lacks the capacity to ensure sentences are properly served. "I am calling on the Government to expand prison capacity, strengthen the criminal justice system and restore public confidence. The law-abiding majority deserve nothing less."

Fosse Road North is currently closed between the junctions of Fosse Road North and Glenfield Road. This collision involves a motorcyclist. We have no details on any injuries at this time. Please find alternative routes and updates will follow. Update 23:30 The road remains closed. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

At 4.15pm yesterday (Thursday 1 October) Police received a report of a missing woman. A short time later, a call was received stating a person was believed to have entered the water at Watermead Park. Officers were deployed and a search was undertaken. The body of a woman, who is believed to be the woman reported missing, was later removed from the water. Officers have contacted her next of kin. Her death is not believed to be suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner. Identification of the deceased is a matter for HM Coroner.

Emergency services are currently on scene at Watermead Country Park tonight. Police and water rescue are currently searching the Mammoth lake and surrounding areas. Police helicopter was reported over the area early tonight. A police cordon is now in place. We have contacted Leicestershire Police for information, more to follow. Police update 02/10/26 At 4.15pm yesterday (Thursday 1 October) Police received a report of a missing woman. A short time later, a call was received stating a person was believed to have entered the water at Watermead Park. Officers were deployed and a search was undertaken. The body of a woman, who is believed to be the woman reported missing, was later removed from the water. Officers have contacted her next of kin. Her death is not believed to be suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner. Identification of the deceased is a matter for HM Coroner. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

Police investigating an assault in Loughborough have released an image of a man they want to identify. Police were called to a flat in Old Ashby Road at 7.45pm on 3 August following a report that a man in his 50s had been attacked by a group The victim suffered injuries to his head and arms. The group left the address prior to police arriving. Following further enquiries, it is believed the man pictured may have information about the incident. Detective Constable Yuriy Song, the investigating officer, said: “If you recognise him and know who he is, then please get in touch. “Likewise, I’m making a direct appeal to this man to contact police as he may be able to assist with our ongoing enquiries.” A 35-year-old man has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with this incident and appeared at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on 6 August. You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ and quoting reference 26*462121. Alternatively call 101.

Leicestershire residents and visitors can enjoy free and discounted bus travel every Saturday until the end of December. Travelling by bus on all Leicestershire County Council supported services will be completely free on Saturdays from 3 October to 26 December, helping people explore more of the county, visit local attractions and enjoy days out for less. There’s also 50 per cent off all journeys every Saturday on FoxConnect, the on-demand bookable bus service which allows passengers to book a journey via the app or by phone to travel to local centres, services and areas of interest. With 11 operating zones across the county, it makes it easier than ever to reach local markets, seasonal events and shopping destinations from Monday to Saturday, 6am – 7:30pm. Ann Carruthers, director of growth, environment and transport at Leicestershire County Council said: "We're pleased to be able to offer residents more opportunities to travel by bus for less this autumn and in the run-up to Christmas. Whether it’s enjoying a woodland walk as the leaves change colour, browsing the Christmas markets, meeting up with friends and family or discovering local museums and attractions, there’s plenty to do and explore during the colder seasons. These offers make it easier for people to access public transport, support local businesses, visit attractions and stay connected with their communities. I’d encourage everyone to take advantage of these savings and discover the benefits of travelling by bus." More information, including eligible bus services and full terms and conditions, can be found at the Choose How You Move website. Leicestershire County Council News - Thursday, 1 October, 2026

Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has secured an additional £195,000 to strengthen vital support services for victims impacted by the Government’s early release scheme, helping ensure they receive the protection, information and specialist assistance they need. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) funding will deliver dedicated support and interventions within the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland PCC’s existing Victim First services to increase victim safety and provide emotional support to victims experiencing increased anxiety and fear in response to early release arrangements. From 1 October 2026, a change to sentencing rules means some adults serving a standard prison sentence will be released earlier than the scheduled date to free up capacity and reduce prison overcrowding. This means some prisoners will now leave prison after a third of their sentence, rather than 40% or 50%, with the remainder of the sentence being served on licence in the community under probation provision. A second group of eligible prisoners, currently released after two thirds of their sentence, will leave prison at the halfway point. Importantly, this change will not apply to prisoners convicted of serious crimes such as rape, terrorism, unlawful killing, serious child sexual offences, and grooming. The model is being implemented across ten tranches from October 2026 to June 2027. Locally, the extra MoJ funding will be invested in a new online awareness and signposting campaign across the force area to inform affected victims about available support and to provide clear routes into local services. A specialist worker will also be embedded within the existing Victim First service to act as a single point of contact for victims impacted by the new arrangements. The worker will provide information, safety planning, emotional support and practical guidance alongside referrals to specialist services. Other resources will include therapeutic support provision to eligible victims experiencing distress in relation to the early release arrangements and the distribution of target hardening packs for victims assessed as needing additional security measures at their homes including victims of domestic abuse. The pack will contain a video doorbell, door brace, letterbox protector and window alarms. Supporting Victims is a key mission in the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan, with the Commissioner committed to ensuring victims have access to the best possible care and support. Among the commitments in his Plan is a promise to commission trauma informed services with input from those with lived experiences, and to ensure services are easily accessible by those in diverse communities. He has also vowed to ensure all professionals in contact with victims know how to refer to the support services he funds. Welcoming the MoJ funding, Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said: “This additional funding to support victims affected by the early release of prisoners is of course welcome. I am pleased that the Government has recognised the emotional and psychological impact these decisions can have on people who have already suffered as a result of crime. “Victims must be at the heart of every decision made within the criminal justice system. While I recognise the pressures facing the prison estate, the long-term solution is to create more prison capacity, not to release offenders early to make space for others. Too often, victims are left feeling that their needs and experiences are an afterthought. “The safety, confidence and recovery of victims must remain paramount. It is vital that those affected by crime feel supported, informed and protected, and know where to turn when they need help. We will work closely with our partners to ensure this funding is invested where it can make the greatest difference to victims and communities.”

Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with footage to come forward following a fatal collision in Narborough Road South this afternoon (Wednesday 30 September). Police were called at 2.40pm following a report of a collision involving a red Tesla Model 3 and grey Kawasaki ZX10 motorcycle, just before the junction with Fosse Park Avenue. The motorcyclist – a man in his 50s – was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported and no-one was arrested. A road closure remains in place at this time. Detective Sergeant Charlotte Mee, from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), said: “Our investigation to establish the circumstances of the incident is in its early stages and I’d like to speak to anyone who can help. “Given the location of the incident, I’m sure there will have been many people who witnessed it and I’d also urge any motorists with a dashcam to get in touch as well. “Anything you can provide could be important.” You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/making-a-road-traffic-incident-report/ and quoting incident 366 of 30 September. Alternatively call 101. Picture Stock Image Leicestershire Police News - Published: 18:51 30/09/2026

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) has begun building a major new aseptic pharmacy facility to provide faster and more reliable cancer treatments for our patients. Located in the Osborne Building at the Leicester Royal Infirmary, the new facility will mean we can prepare more sterile medicines for cancer treatment and clinical research. These medicines must be prepared in highly controlled environments to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety, quality and sterility. The project will create a modern aseptic pharmacy suite featuring specialist clean rooms and isolators, which are essential for producing these life-saving medicines. Once complete, we will be able to prepare more medicines on site, which means we will not have to rely so much on external suppliers. The project is part of our future hospitals programme, which is focused on modernising hospital facilities and ensuring services are equipped to meet the needs of patients now and in the future. The project has been supported by donations from HOPE Against Cancer, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and Leicester Hospitals Charity. We are building this facility because more patients need these cancer treatments than ever before. All of this will help us to meet the future needs of our patients and support national cancer standards. The expanded facility will also support the growth of clinical trials, giving more patients access to innovative therapies closer to home. Mohamed Rahman, Chief Pharmacist at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said: “This investment represents a significant step forward for our pharmacy services and will help us meet the growing demand for cancer treatments and clinical research across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. By increasing our capacity to prepare medicines on site, we will be able to provide a more resilient, efficient and high-quality service for patients, while supporting access to new and innovative treatments in the future.” The next phase began on 21 September, with construction activity expected to continue in phases over the coming months. UHL is working closely with patients, visitors and colleagues to minimise disruption and will provide regular updates throughout the project, including information about access arrangements, parking and any temporary changes around the Osborne Building. The new facility is expected to the open in early 2028. What is an isolator? Isolators are sealed workstations used to protect sterile medicines from contamination while they are being prepared. Clean rooms are specially designed, highly controlled environments where air quality, cleanliness, temperature, and humidity are carefully monitored to reduce the risk of contamination during the preparation of medicines. UHL News - 25 September 2026

Three men and one woman have been charged in connection with a report of a shooting in Mulberry Avenue, Leicester, in February 2024. Officers had been called to the area just after 11pm on Saturday 3 February 2024 following a report of the discharge of a firearm into a stationary car in the street. A man in the car, who is in his 30s, sustained a minor injury following the incident. An investigation has remained ongoing. Yesterday (Tuesday), Sam Namoale, 37, of Field Leys Way, Birstall, Leicester, and Karene Taylor, 33, of Mayfield Road, Leicester, were both charged with conspiracy to murder and possession of a firearm with intent. Curtis West, 41, of Stonesby Avenue, Leicester, was charged with possession of a firearm with intent, assisting/encouraging offences and possession of a prohibited weapon. Louis Neckles, 37, of Aylestone Road, Leicester, was charged with encouraging/assisting an offender. Namoale, Tayor and West have all since appeared at Leicester Magistrates Court where they were further remanded into custody to appear at Leicester Crown Court at a later date. Neckles has been released on bail following charge and is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates Court on Wednesday 28 October. Three other people who were previously arrested in connection with the investigation have been released with no further action. Our initial News Report Pictures by Leicester Media Online Leicestershire Police News - Published: 14:52 30/09/2026

A Programme of exhibitions, displays, talks and author events will take place across Leicester's museums and libraries this October as the city celebrates Black History Month. The month-long programme will highlight the stories, contributions and cultural heritage of Black communities in Leicester and beyond, with activities taking place at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, Newarke Houses Museum and libraries across the city. At Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, visitors can explore Leicester Windrush Memories, a free exhibition running until 18 October that’s dedicated to the Windrush Generation who answered the call to help rebuild Britain after the Second World War. Presented by Kainé and the Better Together project, the exhibition celebrates the lives and contributions of Leicester's Windrush community through personal stories shared with dignity and pride. Throughout October, the museum will also host We Had One Of Those, a display created in partnership with Kainé Management. It invites visitors to reminisce about much-loved household items, including the iconic Murano glass fish that became familiar features in many African and Caribbean family homes during the post-war years. During Black History Month, visitors will also be able to see a portrait of American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. as the museum's Object of the Month. Painted in 1968 by Leicester artist Sarup Singh MBE, the portrait commemorates King's role in the struggle for civil rights and racial equality. A newly acquired portrait, The Inimitable Mrs Morton (pictured), will also go on display in the Leicester Stories Gallery. Painted by Caribbean British artist Yvadney Davis, the work celebrates Elvy Morton, a leading figure in Leicester's Caribbean community and founding chair of Leicester Caribbean Carnival. And on Thursday 22 October, Elvy Morton and Yvadney Davis will be in conversation at the museum, at an evening event hosted by Pawlet Brookes MBE, of Serendipity Institute. Meanwhile, there are two opportunities during Black History Month to visit new permanent galleries at Newarke Houses Museum. Windrush: The Legacy will be open on Saturday 17 October and Wednesday 21 October, with free admission on both days. Presented by Opal22 Arts and Edutainment in partnership with Leicester Museums & Galleries, the exhibition celebrates the lives, achievements and enduring contribution of Leicester's Windrush Generation. Featuring powerful portraits by Denise Lensi, personal video testimonies and a recreated Windrush front room, it tells the stories of those who travelled from the Caribbean to Britain after the Second World War and helped shape modern Leicester. Black History Month is also being marked in Leicester's libraries, which are hosting a series of author talks and conversations throughout the month. On Saturday 3 October, the Central Library will welcome award-winning playwright and author Mel Pennant and Jamaica Road author Lisa Smith for a special discussion hosted by broadcaster Merisha Stevenson. British-Nigerian humanitarian and writer Louisa Bello will visit St Barnabas Library on Friday 23 October to discuss her debut novel, Where The Shadows End. Highfields Library will host award-winning author and columnist Arathi Menon on Wednesday 28 October, when she will discuss her debut literary novel Da. Later the same evening, acclaimed writer Gerard Alfonzo Daley will appear at the Central Library to read from his award-winning novel The Book of Erin, before taking part in a question-and-answer session with the audience. Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for leisure and culture, said: "Black History Month is an important opportunity to celebrate the stories, achievements and lasting contributions of Black communities in Leicester and across the UK. “Throughout October, our museums and libraries will be hosting a wide range of exhibitions, displays, talks and events that explore our city's rich and diverse heritage, while highlighting the individuals whose talent, resilience and community spirit have helped shape Leicester. “I would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to get involved and discover the inspiring stories being shared as part of this year's programme." For more information about Black History Month events in Leicester's museums and libraries, visit Leicester Museums & Galleries and Leicester Libraries Image Credit: Inimitable Mrs Morton. Portrait of Mrs Elvy Morton by Yvadney Davis (2024). Charcoal, acrylic and gold ink on wallpaper. Purchased from Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage, commissioned for 100 Black Women Who Have Made A Mark with assistance from Leicester Museums and Galleries Trust (2025)

Kevin De-Voy and Stephen Walker opened their garden at St Wolstan’s House in Wigston Magna to raise money for the National Garden Scheme (NGS, also known as the yellow book) charity. In addition to raising money for the NGS, each year Kevin and Stephen pick another charity to benefit from the sale of homemade teas at the garden openings. Kevin De-Voy and Stephen Walker, together with Stephen’s mum Pauline Walker, presenting a cheque for £1,400 to some of the staff at Bright Hope. This year, they raised £1,400 for their chosen charity Bright Hope. Bright Hope is an award-winning adult social care charity based in Swannington that provides clinical and non-clinical services and support across Northwest Leicestershire. Their services include counselling, day care, befriending and complementary therapies. Bright Hope is completely funded by donations and receives no funding from any government body. Kevin De-Voy and Stephen Walker, together with Stephen’s mum Pauline Walker, with a cheque for £1,400 from money raised selling home-made teas at their National Garden Scheme (NGS) charity garden openings. The charity was chosen because Stephen’s mum, Pauline, has benefited from their services and very much enjoys the time she spends there. BRIGHT HOPE CHARITY They support adults in North West Leicestershire with mental health, loneliness, and life challenges through free counselling, social groups, and community support. Registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation No. 1169561 Find out more about the NGS Open gardens and St. Wolstan's House see posts below