“A force of nature and the epitome of love and strength” The family of a woman killed in a collision while travelling home in a taxi have spoken of the enormous void her death has left in their lives and described her as a “force of nature” who “knew how to do life well”. On Saturday 16 September 2023, Donna Brighton had spent the day celebrating her 60th birthday with friends in Birmingham. She was making her way home from the train station when the taxi she was travelling in was involved in a collision with a car in Glenfield Road, Leicester. Two other passengers travelling in the taxi also sustained serious injuries. Thomas Goulty In tribute to Donna, her family said: “Donna was a force of nature, a source of inspiration, and the epitome of love and strength. Her positive outlook on life was infectious. She has left an enormous void that we must now live with in her absence. “She touched the lives of everyone she encountered through her kindness. She was compassionate, always ready to offer a helping hand to those in need and always asking after others. She had a gift for making people feel valued, supported and cared for. “Donna was always the heart and soul of family gatherings, bringing joy and warmth to every occasion. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, nanna, sister, auntie, in-law and friend. “When our family spoke about her greatest achievements in life, despite a long list of accomplishments, we all agreed that her greatest achievement was simply that she knew how to do life well.” It was shortly before 8.25pm that police were called to a report of a collision at the junction of Glenfield Road and Westfield Road. As part of the investigation, detectives from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) established the collision happened as the taxi attempted to turn right from Glenfield Road into Westfield Road and collided with the Astra, which was travelling along Glenfield Road in the opposite direction. It was calculated that Goulty was travelling at around 55mph in the 30mph zone at the time of the collision. Donna was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. The two other passengers in the taxi, a man in his 40s and a woman in her 50s, suffered serious injuries. Neither of the drivers were injured in the incident. Remembering the day of the incident, Donna’s family added: “On the day she was taken from us, Donna was celebrating her 60th birthday with friends in Birmingham. “After a lovely day, the group returned to Leicester by train and decided to get taxis home. BBC Radio 2 in the Park was taking place in Leicester that weekend, so taxis were in short supply. “Donna began talking to a couple who were also waiting for a taxi and realised they were all heading in the same direction. They agreed to share a taxi home as they didn’t know how long they would be waiting for another one. All three simply wanted to get home safely. “The events of that night continue to haunt every member of the family. No amount of time can ever undo the devastation of that moment. “At the same time, we were deeply worried for the other two people in the taxi, knowing they were fighting for their lives. We desperately hoped they would make a full recovery, and I know that is exactly what Donna would have wanted too. “We firmly believe this tragedy was avoidable. The decisions made that night by Mr Goulty and Mr Mohammad did not just change one life; they devastated an entire family and affected countless others. The consequences of those choices will remain with us for the rest of our lives.” Detective Constable Louise Hough, officer in the case, said: “This was a tragic collision which resulted in Donna losing her life and two other people suffering serious injuries. “Both drivers had a responsibility to drive with care and consideration and both failed in that responsibility. “Goulty was travelling at around 55mph in a 30mph zone, significantly above the speed limit, while Mohammad turned his taxi into the path of the approaching Astra. The decisions they made behind the wheel that night had devastating and irreversible consequences for Donna’s family and the other people involved. “This case is a stark reminder of why drivers must obey speed limits and take the necessary care before carrying out any manoeuvre. A decision made in a matter of seconds can have consequences that last a lifetime. “My thoughts remain with Donna’s family and with the two other people injured in the collision.” Leicestershire Police News - Published: 15:30 21/09/2026

A speeding driver has been jailed for causing the death of a taxi passenger celebrating her 60th birthday. On the evening of September 16, 2023, in Glenfield Road, Leicester, Grandmother Donna Brighton was tragically thrown from a taxi through an open window and sadly died at the scene. Leicester Crown Court heard that Steve and Andrea Sidsaff, passengers in the back of the vehicle, were also seriously injured in the collision. Thomas Goulty, 36, consumed two lagers before driving his silver Vauxhall Astra at 64mph in a residential zone with a 30mph speed limit, eventually colliding with 69-year-old Sarwar Mohammad's Peugeot Expert Tepee taxi. Thomas Goulty Goulty, residing on Aikman Avenue in Leicester, received a two-year prison sentence today (Friday 18th September) after pleading guilty to causing Mrs. Brighton's death and inflicting serious injuries on the other passengers due to careless driving. Mohammad, of Willow Brook Road, Leicester, who had been driving the taxi and admitted the same offences, was handed a six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and told he must do 100 hours of unpaid work. Goulty has been disqualified from driving for five years and must take an extended retest, while Mohammad was disqualified for two years but will not need to take an extended retest. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) has seen a reduction in the number of patients requiring cystoscopies thanks to a pioneering new non-invasive test for bladder cancer, offering patients a faster, more convenient and less stressful way to be assessed. The new test, known as GALEAS Bladder, is being piloted at the Trust. The simple urine-based kit can be completed in the comfort of patients’ own homes. It analyses 23 genes associated with bladder cancer, delivering highly accurate results without the need for a hospital procedure. Traditionally, patients with suspected bladder cancer undergo a cystoscopy, a procedure that involves inserting a camera into the bladder. The introduction of this innovative test means many patients may be able to avoid hospital visits altogether, reducing stress and unnecessary travel. By providing rapid and reliable results, the test can also help alleviate anxiety sooner, particularly for patients who do not have cancer. UHL was the first Trust in England to roll out the tests, developed by healthcare company Nonacus, in May. The introduction marked a significant step forward in modernising patient care and supporting the NHS ambition to move more services closer to home. Jayne Douglas‑Moore, Consultant Urological Surgeon at UHL, said: “This test represents a major advancement in bladder cancer diagnosis, offering a highly sensitive, non‑invasive and patient‑friendly alternative to traditional methods. “It provides a significantly better experience for our patients by reducing anxiety and removing the need for many to attend hospital for uncomfortable procedures. I am delighted that we are leading the way in rolling this out, and I have already seen the positive impact it is having for our patients.” Since May, around 380 patients have benefited from the new urine test, with data showing that more than 250 cystoscopies have been avoided. This has freed up valuable clinical time for other priority pathways and helped reduce waiting lists. Alongside improving patient experience, the test is expected to ease pressure on hospital services, freeing up specialist staff and increasing capacity across urology departments. The introduction of the test aligns closely with the NHS long-term vision of delivering more care in the community and using innovative diagnostics to improve outcomes and efficiency. Seventy-two-year-old Karen is currently undergoing regular monitoring after being diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2025. Following successful treatment to remove the cancer, she now has routine cystoscopies to check for any signs of it returning. She said: “I’m monitored every three months, and I think this new test is fantastic. It means patients may not have to come into hospital for a cystoscopy and can do the test themselves at home. “I have regular cystoscopies myself, so it could also mean I’m seen sooner because fewer people will need the procedure. “I think it’s brilliant. Anything that makes care easier and less worrying for patients is incredibly valuable. The whole team in Leicester has been amazing throughout my treatment and care.” This pilot demonstrates UHL’s continued commitment to adopting cutting‑edge technologies that put patients first, improving access, experience and clinical outcomes. Jeff Bousfield, Nonacus Chief Executive, said: “Bladder cancer can be treated very effectively when caught early, so getting people to the right diagnosis quickly really matters. Most people referred with symptoms won’t have cancer, but they still enter the same pathway as those who do. “We developed GALEAS Bladder to help change that. Seeing UHL use it in everyday NHS care, with more than 380 patients already benefiting and over 250 cystoscopies avoided, shows how we can get people with cancer diagnosed and treated faster while reducing pressure on stretched services.” University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust - 15 September 2026

The Respiratory Physiology Unit at the Glenfield Hospital has been renamed in honour of the late Professor Mike Morgan in recognition of his outstanding contribution to respiratory medicine across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and beyond. The unit was officially renamed The Mike Morgan Respiratory Physiology Unit during a moving ceremony attended by colleagues and members of Professor Morgan’s family, including his wife Clare and their two sons Theo and Charlie. Professor Morgan joined the Glenfield Hospital in 1988 and was instrumental in developing respiratory services. He established the hospital’s home ventilation service, which today supports around 1,500 patients, championed access to wider lung function testing and played a key role in expanding specialist services including sleep medicine and cardiopulmonary exercise. He went on to establish Leicester as one of the UK’s leading centres for respiratory medicine, research and education. Charlotte Swales, Consultant Respiratory Physician and Head of the Respiratory and Allergy Service at UHL, said: “Mike’s vision, leadership and unwavering commitment to improving patient care shaped the respiratory service we know today, creating a department that continues to benefit thousands of patients every year. It is a proud and fitting tribute that our service will now carry his name – a lasting legacy for someone who changed the direction of travel for patients, colleagues and the wider clinical landscape, and who gave so much to Glenfield and to the people we serve.” Professor Morgan’s influence extended well beyond Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. He served as President of the British Thoracic Society and became the first National Clinical Director for Respiratory Disease at NHS England. He was widely recognised nationally and internationally for his contribution to respiratory medicine and continued to support the profession following his retirement from UHL. Professor Chris Brightling, Clinical Professor in Respiratory Medicine at the University of Leicester, said: “Professor Mike Morgan was a giant in respiratory medicine and research. He was the founding chair of the University of Leicester’s Institute for Lung health established in 2000 and had a particular interest in lung physiology. He championed wider access to lung function testing for early detection of disease making and it is therefore very fitting to rename the respiratory physiology Unit in his memory.” As well as the renaming of the unit, a plaque has also been erected as a permanent reminder of Professor Morgan’s contribution to Respiratory Physiology at the Glenfield Hospital. University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust - 18 September 2026

Saturday 19th September 6:30 pm to 9 pm, part of the National Garden Scheme in aid of charity. Open Gardens at St. Wolstan's House Video taken 19th September 2026 by Russell Thorpe for LM News Approx ½ acre garden divided into garden rooms with formal and informal planting featuring specimen Sequoia sempervirens and Cedrus libani. Inc formal white garden, rose garden, sunken Italian garden with Triton fountain, lawned area surrounded by mixed border and paths with rose and wisteria pergola and laburnum arch, Edwardian conservatory, terracotta garden and well garden with raised beds. St Wolstan's House was built in 1856 as a farmhouse and replaced a previous house. In 1839 the farm had 145 acres, with the fields laid out in a straight line behind the house stretching towards Oadby and in 1945 it had just under 100 acres. Location details St Wolstan's House, Church Nook, Wigston Magna, Leicestershire, LE18 3RA what3words ///makes.haven.aims Adults £5 Children free - Home-made teas Directions to St Wolstan's House On the corner of Church Nook & Bull Head Street, opposite St Wistan's Church. No parking at garden. Public car parks, all within 5 min walk on Frederick Street, Junction Road & Paddock Street. In aid of 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 Pictures by Leicester Media Online

A police cordon is in place on Saffron Lane this morning. A car has rammed into the Cash Generator Shop causing significant damage to the front shutter and brickwork. Police forensic officers are at the scene. It’s reported that this ram raid happened in the early hours of this morning. Recovery of the red Ford car is currently taking place. It is still unclear if anything was taken during the raid. We have contacted Leicestershire Police more information on this incident More to follow. Pictures by Leicester Media Online ©️ 2026

A project to celebrate 100 years of the Shelthorpe estate in Loughborough has brought together residents' memories and stories to showcase the area’s rich history and strong sense of community. Cllr Sarah Maynard, Cllr Anne Gray, Cllr Beverley Grey with David Kirkby and Christine Harris (Loughborough Library Local Studies Group volunteers) and Purnima Chavda (volunteer) with Shelthorpe resident Graham Swan outside Graham Swan's tattoo studio Led by Charnwood Borough Council, the Shelthorpe Archive is a series of videos highlighting the area's heritage and personal stories as part of an augmented reality (AR) trail. People can follow the trail and through an app scan numbers and letters to access to the stories. The Shelthorpe Archive is part of a wider project which not only marked the centenary but also saw the shopping area around Park Road roundabout supported through additional CCTV, a deep clean and other street improvements. The project was supported by £60,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s Lead Member for Housing, Economic Development, Regeneration and Town Centres, said: “It has been so special to celebrate the Shelthorpe estate. It is such an important milestone for all the people that lived there and still do.” Cllr Beverley Gray, Shelthorpe ward councillor, added: “Shelthorpe has a rich history, and it is only right we acknowledge and celebrate that. It’s been wonderful to see the community come together, share their stories and take great pride in where they live.” Cllr Anne Gray, who is also a Shelthorpe ward councillor and attended school in the area, said: “When I attended Shelthorpe school in the sixties, little did I think that in 2026 I'd be attending Shelthorpe Estate's centenary celebrations as a borough councillor! “I'd like to say a big thank you to the resident who first alerted us to the centenary, to local businesses and all residents who helped on the day and shared stories. “Thanks also to officers at Charnwood Borough Council who helped make our event a reality. And huge thanks to the Local Studies team at the library who put together a great exhibition and produced a booklet.” Fellow Shelthorpe ward councillor Sarah Maynard said: “It has been fantastic to learn so much about the history of Shelthorpe and I encourage people to explore the trail and hear all the wonderful stories. “It has been such an honour to hear so many wonderful stories from the residents, both past and present.” Local creative company Creative Initiatives CIC, based in Loughborough, produced the trail and videos, supported by the Loughborough Library Local Studies Group. The videos can be accessed by downloading the free Graff.io Arts AR app and scanning numbers placed in the windows of Shelthorpe businesses or letters from the Shelthorpe ARchive Heritage Trail leaflet. These trigger augmented reality (AR) stories to view on a phone or tablet.  The videos are also available on the Charnwood Council website www.charnwood.gov.uk/shelthorpearchive Lifelong Shelthorpe resident Graham Swan, known as Swanny and who runs Swanny’s Tattoo Studio, features in one of the videos in which he says: “I have lived in Shelthorpe all my life. Life for me started on Griggs Road and it was wonderful growing up here. “My Gran lived here and I remember playing on the little green on Manor Road. The estate was like one big family, and I have so many wonderful memories growing up here.” The first homes on the Shelthorpe estate were built in 1926 following the 1919 Housing and Town Planning Act which gave local authorities more control in building council houses. Today the estate has around 300 homes and a strong local identity. Charnwood Borough Council News - Published: Wed 16th September, 2026

Staff from across University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) came together today (Thursday 17 September) in the Secret Garden at the Glenfield Hospital to mark National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers. The event, which took place as part of the national awareness day launched by Practitioner Health and Doctors in Distress in 2024, provided an opportunity for colleagues to remember healthcare workers lost to suicide, reflect on the challenges faced by those working in health and care, and highlight the importance of supporting colleague wellbeing. This year’s theme, ‘Lasting memories, building hope’, was reflected throughout the event, which welcomed guest speakers from Practitioner Health, Doctors in Distress and The Tomorrow Project. Colleagues also had the opportunity to visit information and support stalls and take part in a memorial service led by UHL’s Chaplaincy team. Clare Teeney, Chief People Officer at UHL, said: “It was incredibly moving to see colleagues come together to remember those we have lost and to support one another. National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers provides an important opportunity to reflect, to honour lasting memories, and to reinforce our commitment to creating a culture where people feel able to seek help when they need it. “The wellbeing of colleagues remains a priority, and events like this remind us of the importance of compassion, connection and hope. Thank you to everyone who helped organise the day and to those who attended and shared their stories and messages.” As part of the day, attendees were invited to share messages of remembrance and hope, while learning more about support available for healthcare workers experiencing mental health challenges. National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers aims to honour the lives of colleagues, friends and loved ones who have been lost to suicide, while encouraging conversations and action to better protect the mental health of healthcare workers. UHL News - 17 September 2026 Help is always available Samaritans Helpline Number: 116-123

A motorist who caused a fatal collision by driving more than 20mph over the limit in Leicester has been jailed. Aaron Singh-Dhillon was travelling at more than 60mph along the A47 Hinckley Road – which has a limit of 40mph – when he was involved in a collision that killed David Hold in September 2023. Mr Hold, 74, was in his Suzuki Alto at the junction with Avery Hill and saw an opportunity to safely pull out onto Hinckley Road. However, due to the speed Singh-Dhillon was driving his Volkswagen Golf, he was unable to slow down in time and struck the Suzuki. Mr Hold was taken to hospital but went into cardiac arrest and sadly died shortly after the collision occurred. His partner, who was a passenger in the car, suffered serious injuries. In a statement, Mr Hold’s family said: “David was a loving dad, twin brother, brother to an older sister, grandad and great-grandad. “He was tragically taken too soon and will be missed greatly. He leaves behind ever-lasting memories and a loving family.” An investigation by officers from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) established Singh-Dhillon was travelling at around 62mph as he approached the junction and struck the Suzuki at around 45mph. In August this year the 31-year-old pleaded guilty to one count of causing death by careless driving and one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving – careless driving at Leicester Crown Court. Today (Friday 18 September), at the same court, Singh-Dhillon – of Hill Field in Oadby – was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment. He was also disqualified from driving for five years and must sit an extended re-test. Detective Constable Louise Hough, the officer in the case, said: “While no sentence is going to bring him back, I hope Mr Hold’s family and loved ones have been provided with a degree of closure following today’s sentencing. “Furthermore, I hope this case serves as a stark warning to anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to drive at excessive speed anywhere – never mind in built-up areas – that such careless behaviour can have tragic consequences.” Leicestershire Police News - Published: 14:18 18/09/2026

A child sex offender has been jailed more than 20 years after carrying out his abuse. Terrance Taylor was sentenced to a total of six years’ imprisonment when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court today (Thursday 17 September). Seventy-four-year-old Taylor abused his young victim in the mid-2000s, touching her in an inappropriate manner. His crimes were brought to the attention of police in 2024 when the victim, who is now an adult, disclosed what had happened during her childhood. In interview, Taylor denied ever having sexually abused the victim but could not tell officers from our Child Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU) why she would make up such an allegation. He was subsequently charged and in August, following a trial at Leicester Crown Court, was found guilty of two counts of assaulting a girl under 13 by penetration and two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 years of age. Taylor, of Wokingham Avenue, Eyres Monsell, was also placed on the sex offender register indefinitely and made subject to an indefinite restraining order which prohibits him from contacting the victim. Detective Constable Katie Harris, from the CAIU’s non-recent team, was the officer in the case. She said: “The victim in this case has shown a great amount of bravery in coming forward and re-living what happened both to officers and a jury during the trial. “She’s said she hopes this case will encourage other victims of sexual abuse – either now or in years gone by – to come forward. She echoes our message which is always that it’s never too late to make a report and ensure those responsible for such awful crimes are brought to justice. “I hope today’s sentencing has provided her with a degree of closure and will now allow her to move on with her life.” There are several different agencies who can offer independent help and support to victims of sexual offences in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Further information on these services and details on who to contact if you have been a victim of a sexual offence can be found by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences Leicestershire Police News - Published: 11:12 18/09/2026

An art exhibition featuring a wide range of works inspired by dogs is set to open in Leicester this weekend. The free exhibition, called 'A Dog’s Life', will be on display at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, on New Walk, from Saturday, 19 September. It will feature the work of a variety of artists, illustrators, photographers and designers who use dogs as their subject matter and inspiration. Visitors will have the chance to engage with interactive displays, draw and display their own ‘pooch pawtrait’ and explore a digital feature that allows them to see themselves as a dog. The exhibition aims to celebrates the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions. The exhibition will feature works from internationally renowned artists including: Brazilian artist Rafael Mantesso, who uses photography and illustration to create imaginary scenes around his beloved bulldog Jimmy Choo. Sophie Ryder, who will be showing a bronze sculpture entitled ‘Dancing Dogs’ and a stunning portrait of one of her dogs. Gerard Gethings, who will be exhibiting 16 pairs of photographs which show dogs and their human look-a-likes London-based artist Martha Todd, who has created four ceramic sculptures which explore our obsession with putting clothes on our four-legged friends. Shauna Richardson, who has created a life-sized hound using a process she has developed, called ‘Crochetdermy’. French artist and photographer Sophie Gamand, who creates flower crowns for rescue dogs and photographs them Celebrated British artist David Shrigley OBE, whose distinct line drawings often deal with witty and surreal subjects In total, there will be works on display from 36 different artists and illustrators. Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for leisure and culture, said: “This fun and family-friendly exhibition brings together a fantastic variety of works from some wonderful artists to explore our love of dogs. “We are proud to make this exhibition, which features artists from across the globe, available for everyone to enjoy, for free, at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery.” ‘A Dog’s Life’ is a lottery-backed touring exhibition developed by 20-21 Visual Arts Centre, with support from North Lincolnshire Council and Arts Council England. The exhibition will be on display at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery from Saturday, 19 September, until Sunday, 15 November. For more information visit www.leicestermuseums.org

School admissions are now open for the next academic year. If your child is due to start secondary school in Aug 2027, apply by 31 Oct 2026 All the details you need are here: School admissions Find information about applying for a school place for your child in Leicester.