Christmas celebrations make a welcome return to the streets of Leicester this year – but with a new format for the traditional lights' switch-on to help people stay safe. Instead of a stage programme on Humberstone Gate – which, in previous years, drew densely-packed crowds – the city council will provide attractions at five locations across the city centre to encourage people to enjoy the switch-on, wherever they are. From 5pm on Thursday (18 November), people will be able to enjoy food and a festive film in Green Dragon Square, funfair rides on Humberstone Gate, live music and an interactive adventure in Town Hall Square, street entertainers near the Clock Tower Christmas tree, and a spectacular light installation on Orton Square. At 6.30pm, those enjoying the fun at all five locations will be invited to share in the build-up to the big switch-on by joining in with a countdown led by BBC Radio Leicester and broadcast on speakers at each site. Across the city centre, 16,000 colourful lamps will light up Leicester’s squares and shopping streets, signalling the start of the Christmas celebrations. On Gallowtree Gate, new elegant red and white decorations will span the street, while there’s a fresh look for the Town Hall, where the traditional ‘Christmas Greetings’ motif will be joined by some colourful new LED Christmas trees. At the Clock Tower, a 50ft Christmas tree will sparkle with hundreds of pea-lights, while the city’s traditional nativity scene and a festive tableau scene – featuring a new augmented reality experience for youngsters – will have pride of place in Town Hall Square. Deputy city mayor Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming people to Leicester city centre on Thursday (18 November) for what should be a wonderful evening. “It should be a great opportunity to catch up with friends, enjoy a meal with the family or maybe even make a start on your Christmas shopping!” Free festive films in Green Dragon Square will start at 5pm on Thursday (18 November). Family favourite The Snowman™ will be shown on the Corn Exchange screen at 5pm, followed by The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Sweet treats, hot drinks and hot food – including pizzas, hot dogs and vegan options – will be available from stalls in Green Dragon Square. On Humberstone Gate, there’ll be a festive funfair (18 Nov-2 Jan), while a 22m-high ‘Happy Wheel’ will take visitors for a spin in Jubilee Square. Over in Orton Square, BID Leicester has sponsored a spectacular overhead light installation, Rhizome, which is set to captivate visitors from 18 November until 5 January. Costumed characters and street entertainers, including some illuminated penguin puppets, will create pockets of fun throughout the city centre, and there’ll be live music from brass band collectives, carolling choirs and local steel pan players as part of the switch-on night programme. People heading for the city centre from outside the city are encouraged to use Leicester’s Park & Ride services. Two of the services – from Birstall and Enderby – have been specially extended for switch-on night. The last buses back to Birstall and Enderby will leave the city centre at 9pm and 9.05pm respectively on 18 November. The last bus to Meynell’s Gorse will depart at 7pm as normal. A return ticket for up to five people in one car costs just £3. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “After last year’s scaled-down Christmas programme, it’s great to be able to bring back the attractions that help create such a wonderful festive atmosphere in Leicester. “Although things feel more normal this year, COVID hasn’t gone away, so we’ll be keeping an eye on local infection rates as we head into winter, just in case we need to amend the programme to keep people safe. But our intention is to celebrate Christmas in style this year, and give families and friends plenty of opportunities to have fun together in Leicester city centre.” With COVID-19 infection rates still high, the city council is asking people to do a quick test before attending the switch-on event, and to wear a face covering if they're travelling on public transport or whenever they’re in a crowded space. Director of public health Professor Ivan Browne said: "While the risk of transmission at an outdoor event is much lower than in an indoor space, the virus can easily be passed on when people are close together. “That’s why we’re asking people to take a quick lateral flow test before attending our switch-on event, just to make sure they’re not carrying the virus without realising it. “To further reduce the risk of transmission, we’re also asking anyone with any cold or flu-like symptoms to stay at home and not mix with others – even if they’ve had a negative rapid COVID test. “Wearing a face covering whenever you’re in a crowded space – whether that’s indoors or outdoors – is a really good idea, and don’t forget that regular hand-washing is an important part of your COVID-19 defences. “The best thing you can do to protect yourself and others is to make sure that you’re fully vaccinated against COVID-19, so please get your jabs, if you haven’t already done so. “It’s especially important for people over 40, or those with health conditions that make them more vulnerable, to get the booster jab as soon as they are eligible. This will make sure they are fully protected throughout the winter period when it is much easier for the virus to spread." Free home testing kits will be available in Green Dragon Square from 3pm on switch-on night (Thursday 18 November) from the yellow council van. Free tests are also available from pharmacies and from the rapid testing centre at Fosse neighbourhood centre. More information about Christmas in Leicester is available at christmasinleicester.co.uk Leicester City Council is grateful for the support of its sponsors this Christmas: Octopus Energy - Watches of Switzerland - CityFibre - Gem

A pioneering service, which supports young victims of violence at the Leicester Royal Infirmary has reached nearly 250 young people since it started in February 2020. Leicestershire’s Violence Reduction Network (VRN) has invested £250,000 into the Violence Intervention Project, or VIP, which supports young people attending hospital with violence-related injuries. The project is delivered by Turning Point - a social and health care services provider. Its specially trained workers are based in A&E and offer support and mentorship to young people who have been admitted with injuries arising from violence including knife-related injuries. This is known as a ‘reachable moment’ when a victim is more likely to accept help whilst they are in a safe space away from the context in which the injury occurred. It provides an opportunity to ensure they stay safe and make positive progress in their lives. The workers can put them in touch with a wide range of organisations and services and be an advocate for them too. In early 2021 a seventeen-year-old young man was admitted to the LRI after being attacked by several men. He was already known to the police as a victim of Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE). An initial assessment showed he had previously been arrested for causing criminal damage and was found in possession of a bag of Class ‘A’ drugs and was currently struggling with education and employment. He told the Turning Point workers that he regularly carried weapons and knives as a protective measure because of his situation. Initially the young man was very cautious about the information he gave to his VIP worker, however the worker was able to build his trust which led to him disclosing information that he had not previously disclosed to the police or other agencies. The VIP worker established that he really wanted to get back into education to learn a trade or vehicle mechanics. He also wanted to be involved in extra-curricular sports and improve his peer group as his only friends were associated with the drug trade. In June 2021, through the VIP, he got a place to study music alongside English and Maths. His attendance and attitude to learning was excellent and he is now in full time education. As a result, he was able to widen his peer group, establish a more structured daily routine and through the VIP he was able to go to a sports and boxing gym once a week for six weeks. Since then he has not been involved in any other offending; not had any other violent encounters. He no longer carries weapons and feels a lot safer out in the community. Grace Strong, Strategic Director of the Violence Reduction Network said; “As this case study shows the Violence Intervention Project can make a real difference to young people, supporting them to change their future for the better. The VIP workers are dedicated to really understanding and harnessing the strengths of young people and working closely with them to build a positive future. It not only benefits the young person but all of us as our children, young people and communities are safer as a result.” Detective Chief Inspector Gavin Drummond, from the force’s Violent and Complex Crime Unit, said; “The Violence Intervention Programme is a great example of why it is so important we work in partnership to engage with victims. Making sure the right people talk to victims at the right time can make the difference between that person reoffending or finding the help and support they need to make positive steps to a brighter future.” Caroline Gadsby the Partnerships Manager for Turning Point said; “Turning Point have been working in the hospital as part of the Violence Intervention Project over the last 18 months and we have seen the difference it can make to the young people we work with. “Whilst we are a reasonably new project we have continued to reach out to young people during Covid and we have learnt a lot along the way that has helped us shape the service. Going forward we will be able to build on what we know and use that knowledge to further improve the support we can offer in ‘the reachable moment’. The work that we do with support from the Violence Reduction Network is important and makes such a difference to young people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.” Rupert Matthews, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland’s Police and Crime Commissioner, who funds the VRN, said: “Violence, and knife crime in particular, must be addressed from all corners. This project shows the added value that Violence Reduction Unit brings to this battle. Enforcement alone will not eradicate violence, we must change attitudes. It is not ‘normal’ to carry a knife. It is not ‘safer’ to carry a knife – in fact that increases the risk of serious harm. “As this example illustrates, mindsets can be changed, and we must invest in that to make Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland safer for future generations.” If you are looking for help and support, please visit Leicestershire Police’s website. If you are a concerned family member or friend there is also information on the website to help you. Why not start the conversation today using our a 10 step guide? https://www.leics.police.uk/livesnotknives This week Leicestershire Police is joining police forces up and down the country to support ‘Operation Sceptre’ – a week-long national campaign aimed at tackling knife crime. Taking place between Monday 15 November and Sunday 21 November 2021, Operation Sceptre will see the police service across the UK highlighting the risks that carrying a bladed weapon can bring, as well as targeting offenders who use and carry knives in the area. Follow the campaign on social media via the #OpSceptre hashtag.

Self-confessed football novices take to the pitch to take on LGBTQ+ team in special charity match to raise funds and celebrate equality A special charity football game has been held in Leicester celebrating equality and raising vital funds for Dementia UK. The ‘Can’t Play Players’ women’s team from retailer Central England Co-op took on the Leicester Wildecats LGBTQ+ team in a tournament held at AFC Andrews Football Club in Knighton Lane East. The players from Central England Co-op were self-confessed ‘non players’ who all donned their boots and shinpads in the name of fundraising and to celebrate equality and inclusion. All the players who took part received a medal, but it was the Leicester Wildecats Divas team that emerged victorious after the round robin tournament, with almost £200 raised on the day for the retailer’s charity partner Dementia UK. Karen Bevan, Membership and Community Relations Officer at Central England Co-op who organised and played in the game, said: “We first played a ‘Can’t Play Players’ game in February last year and it was the first time that many of us had ever really kicked a ball but that didn’t matter as it was just great fun and everyone who took part couldn’t wait to give it a go again “When the opportunity came up to play against the Leicester Wildecats team, we were delighted to make it happen. To raise money for such a great charity and join together to celebrate equality and inclusion, which is such an important part of what we stand for as a Society, made it a really inspirational, as well as enjoyable occasion. “I’m really thankful again to Andy Ashton and everyone at AFC Andrews for helping us stage the game at their ground again and for their great hospitality, as well as the Leicester Wildecats team for joining us and helping make it such a memorable day.” Gareth Miller, Founder of the Leicester Wildecats, said their players had a great day and hope to take on the Can’t Play Players from Central England Co-op again. He said: “This was one of the most friendly and enjoyable tournaments we have ever played in. It was very well organised by Central England Co-op and all the games were played in good spirit and with great enthusiasm. “Leicester Wildecats is very happy to work in partnership with Central England Co-op and we look forward to arranging another charity tournament soon.” Andy Ashton, from AFC Andrews, said: “As a community football club we are able to welcome and help people in a way we probably couldn’t as individuals, and so we were delighted to help Karen and her team.”

Members of Leicestershire Search and Rescue (LeicSAR) team were commended by the force last month as part of their ten-year anniversary. At an event at force headquarters in Enderby, members of the team were presented by Assistant Chief Constable David Sandall and Chief Inspector Ben Gillard with certificates recognising their contribution and assistance in helping the force search for the most vulnerable members of the community, often when they are in crisis. Having begun in 2011, the team is made up of highly trained volunteers. Among them are dog handlers, technicians, search planners and managers, team leaders and medics. They also have a nationally accredited air-scenting dog team, drone team and a specialist bicycle team, allowing them to search large or rural areas. Sergeant Chris Haines, from the force’s Tactical Support Team who is the police liaison for the team, said: “Leicestershire Search and Rescue have now been operational for ten years and during this time, they have provided an exceptional service to us and the communities we serve. “Over the years, they have provided over 3,000 of volunteering hours per year and have progressed from novices to a highly professional unit that has several specialist teams. “LeicSAR members turn out at all hours of the day and night, in all kinds of weather conditions to search for those people most at risk, who need our help and we need to find. “Quite simply, they give up their own time to save lives. “They are exceptional people who have provided exceptional service so I extremely pleased that we were able to acknowledge all they have contributed over the past ten years.” Nick Canham from Leicestershire Search & Rescue said: “Over the last ten years the team have worked hard to support the community of Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland, and our dedicated volunteers are so grateful to be recognised by Leicestershire Police, who we would like to thank their continued support and trust placed in the team.”

There’ll be a new attraction in Leicester’s Jubilee Square from Friday (12 November), as the preparations for the city’s Christmas celebrations gather pace. A 22m-high ‘Happy Wheel’ will illuminate the space with its state-of-the-art LED lighting, creating a stunning light show while taking passengers for a spin above the square. The brand new Happy Wheel will be a feature of the square until the end of November, when it will be replaced by a bigger, more familiar, festive attraction – the 35m-high Wheel of Light. Operator Jan de-Koning of de-Koning Leisure Group said: “We are very happy to introduce Leicester to our new Happy Wheel, which is the only one of its type in the world. “It is equipped with a state-of-the-art colour changing LED lighting package, costing over £100,000, that gives a fantastic light show after dark and should be a wonderful addition to the big switch-on on 18 November. “This wheel’s big brother is undergoing annual maintenance after a long and busy summer season at the coast and a stint in Belgrave Rd for the Diwali celebrations, but it will be back in Leicester in time for its usual run alongside the Christmas ice rink in Jubilee Square.” The Happy Wheel will open at 6pm on Friday (12 November). Ticket prices on this smaller wheel are £4.50 for adults, £4 for children under 1.4m, and £14 for two adults and two children, or one adult and three children. Leicester’s Christmas lights will be switched on as part of a packed programme of events next Thursday (18 November). With COVID-19 rates still high, there will be no stage programme on Humberstone Gate. Instead, a countdown across five locations – played out on speakers at 6.30pm – will herald the switch-on of Leicester’s fabulous Christmas lights. From 5pm on switch-on night, families will be able to enjoy some free festive films in Green Dragon Square, music and tableau scenes in Town Hall Square, a stunning light installation in Orton Square, funfair rides on Humberstone Gate, and plenty of snow at Highcross. More information about Christmas in Leicester is available at www.christmasinleicester.co.uk

The force has renewed its pledge to support military personnel past and present by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or have previously served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The force, which currently employs 12 Reservists, signed the Covenant today (Wednesday 10 November) at an event held at police headquarters in Enderby, Leicestershire. The Chief Constable, Simon Cole, signed the pledge alongside Bruce Spencer from East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association. Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews was also present. Within the Covenant the force pledged to: visibly demonstrate that it is an Armed Forces friendly organisation, support the employment of veterans and work with the career Transition Partnership (CTP) to establish a tailored employment pathway for service leavers, be flexible in granting leave for service spouses and partners before, during and after a partner’s deployment, support employees who choose to be members of the Reserve Forces, including accommodating their training and deployment where possible, support employees who are volunteer leaders in Ministry of Defence sponsored cadet organisations, participate actively in Armed Forces Day. Chief Constable Simon Cole, said: “The relationship between the police and Armed Services has always been strong and we are proud to have a number of Reservists among our officers and staff. The Covenant symbolises the force’s commitment to this relationship.” Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews, said: “Leicestershire Police has always prided itself on offering veterans the opportunity to continue to serve. Their decency, kindness of spirit and sense of public duty is invaluable to Leicestershire Police and an inspiration to us all. Leicestershire Police will always support and welcome members of our Armed Forces, and The Covenant is a testament to that.” Bruce Spencer, Regional Employer Engagement Director, added: “We are delighted that Leicestershire Police have re-affirmed their commitment to the Armed Forces community by re-signing the Covenant. It is vital that our Reserves, veterans and military families are supported in this way, and it sends a strong message to the local community when organisations such as the police force promote the Armed Forces Covenant.”

People will be able to pay their respects to the nation’s fallen servicemen and women at Leicester’s annual Remembrance Day service this month. The commemorations once again take place at the Arch of Remembrance in Victoria Park, on Sunday, November 14 – the first time in two years that the service has been able to take place due to Covid-19 restrictions which were in place during 2020. Some changes have been made to this year’s service to help make it more Covid secure. This year’s service will be slightly shorter than in previous years, and will not include a parade leaving De Montfort Hall, which would usually mark the start of the service. Those attending will need to be in place by 10.45am, when the official wreath-laying parties will arrive at the war memorial. The service starts at 10.55am and will be led by Right Reverend Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester, with support from Dave Andrews, a former BBC Radio broadcaster. Two minutes of silence will be observed at 11am, marked with the firing of salutes at the beginning and end of the silence. Park users with young children or pets are advised to be aware that salutes are very loud and may cause alarm or distress. Official wreaths will be laid by Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Colonel Murray Colville and the Lord Mayor of Leicester, Councillor Deepak Bajaj, together with representatives from local emergency services, military units and faith representatives. There will be an opportunity for members of the public to lay wreaths at the end of the service. Limited public seating will be available, with chairs spaced appropriately, available on a first come first served basis. A seating area for anyone with a disability or who is unable to stand for long periods will also be available. The close of the service will see a returning parade stepping off through the war memorial returning to the front of De Montfort Hall via Coach Drive. Lord Mayor of Leicester, Councillor Deepak Bajaj, said: “It is wonderful to have the opportunity to come together again at Victoria Park to honour the men and women who do so much for our country. “It was extremely disappointing that we couldn’t hold the service last year, but it gave us the chance to reflect on the challenges faced by the members of our Armed Forces and remember the sacrifices they have made for us.” The public car park at Granville Road will not be in use on the day, but a very limited number of spaces for disabled and blue badge holders will be available at the top end of the car park. These must be booked in advance by emailing lord.mayor@leicester.gov.uk or calling 0116 454 0020 by Friday, 12th November. Road closures will be in operation on both Granville Road and Regent Road from 9.30am until around 12.15pm.

Review will be launched looking at ways to improve compulsory ongoing training for existing and returning HGV drivers Government also identifying sites for short-term improvements to lorry parking and investing £500,000 to move additional 29,000 lorry loads of freight to railways Comes as DVLA clears over 40,000 HGV and vocational licence applications in just 4 weeks A sweeping review will seek to improve compulsory ongoing training for HGV and bus drivers, in the latest of 30 measures to support the road haulage sector and encourage even more people to return to the profession. Drivers currently need to undergo five days of periodic training every five years to ensure they remain fully qualified to drive heavy goods vehicles and buses professionally and up to date with road safety standards. This training is an EU initiative and is compulsory within what is known as the Driver Certificates of Professional Competence (DCPC) regime. While its aim is to keep standards high, some drivers are left to pay for the training themselves and are not paid whilst attending their training course. Feedback from industry suggests this puts off many drivers who have left the profession from returning. The review will look at how the process can be updated to reduce the burden on drivers – both returning and new – and ensure it doesn’t act as a barrier to working in the sector, as the Government continues to bolster supply chains and tackle the global driver shortage here in the UK. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:   “We’re listening to industry leaders who have told us about the issues HGV drivers face with CPC arrangements. Now we’ve taken back control of our own laws and regulations, I’m delighted to say we’re launching a review into these training rules. “We understand it’s vital for drivers to remain fully qualified – but we’re looking to ensure they can do so in the most efficient way possible whilst maintaining road safety standards. No driver should be out of pocket or out of work through no fault of their own. “This is the latest in a raft of thirty measures we’ve taken to support this vital sector and encourage drivers to return to the job or kickstart a new career in the industry. These measures are working – there is no backlog of HGV licence applications and we’re seeing over a thousand more people than normal apply for a licence each week.” In a further move to encourage more people back to the sector and attract new recruits, the Government is working with key stakeholders to identify a number of lorry parks across the country where short term facilities such as temporary toilets, showers and catering can be delivered in the coming months.  The Government also emphasised the expectation that councils consider new proposals for these vital facilities constructively and has committed to review guidance that will assist this. This follows the £32.5 million recently committed in the Chancellor’s budget to provide better facilities right across the country for HGV drivers, which will drive up standards of road side parking and facilities for our hauliers and further safeguard driver wellbeing, comfort and safety. £500,000 will also be added to the existing ’Mode Shift Revenue Support Fund’ for 2021/22, in another boost to the country’s supply chains. This £20 million grant scheme provides funding to private sector freight companies to encourage them to move more freight from the country’s roads to either the railways or inland waterways. The additional funding equates to taking a significant 29,000 lorry loads of goods off the roads up until the end of March 2022 and will help to generate more environmentally friendly modes of transporting freight. Director of Policy at Logistics UK Elizabeth De Jong said: “The measures announced today will support our members in their efforts to attract and retain new HGV drivers to the sector. Inadequate driver facilities across the roads network have led to a negative impression of our industry, creating a barrier to entry to our sector and are an issue that Logistics UK has been campaigning on for many years; we are pleased that the government has listened to our concerns and will move forward with a rapid programme of improvements. “Logistics UK and its members also welcome the review of Driver CPC, to ensure that continuous education for drivers is as effective as possible while upholding all necessary safety requirements. Meanwhile, the extra funding for the Mode Shift Revenue Support scheme will help industry to reach net zero emission targets while reducing road congestion.”   Amongst other measures already taken to support the haulage industry, the testing process has been streamlined, the number of weekly HGV tests available has increased by 90% and training for up to 5,000 new drivers through skills bootcamps has been announced. The DVLA has processed over 40,000 HGV and vocational licence applications in just 4 weeks, with applications that don’t require complex medicals being turned around in just five working days. DVSA are providing 1,350 more tests than normal a week at sites all over the country. These measures are working. Not only are vocational licence applications being processed in normal 5 day turnaround times with no backlogs, over the past three weeks we’ve seen around a 90% increase in the number of people requesting application packs for vocational licences each week.

It's an eye-catching way to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in service Leicestershire County Council’s headquarters is being illuminated in red to mark Remembrance this year. County Hall, in Glenfield, is being lit up in support of the Royal British Legion’s (RBL) Poppy Appeal 2021. The Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE and RBL county chairman Colonel Robert Martin are now calling on other organisations across the county to follow suit light up their own buildings in tribute. Last year, more than 30 buildings across the county and in Leicester joined with County Hall to go red in remembrance. Among those taking part were churches, war memorials, offices, community centres and pubs. It is hoped that this year, even more organisations will pledge to illuminate in red each night until Sunday 14 November. “Once again this year, we are calling on organisations across the city and county to light up their buildings in red as an eye-catching way to honour those who gave their lives in conflict. “I hope that by illuminating some of our buildings in this way, it will provide a simple but powerful expression of our community’s support for the Poppy Appeal.” Lieutenant Mike Kapur OBE Royal British Legion Leicestershire chairman Colonel Robert Martin said: “In the centenary year of the Poppy Appeal, the Royal British Legion is delighted that organisations in the city and county once again want to show their appreciation and support in such a symbolic way for the men and women of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces who have selflessly and courageously served our country.” Last year it was not possible to hold the customary service to mark Armistice and pay tribute to the fallen which is traditionally at County Hall’s Stand Easy memorial. But the service will return this year albeit with fewer participants than in the past. The short service will take place at the Stand Easy memorial at County Hall, beginning at 10.55am on Thursday November 11 and will incorporate the laying of wreaths and a two-minute silence at 11am. Dignitaries taking part in the service include the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire Mike Kapur OBE, High Sheriff of Leicestershire Ian Mattioli MBE and Chairman of Leicestershire County Council Dan Harrison. They will be joined by representatives of veterans’ associations, the Royal British Legion, serving members of the armed forces and cadets.

People planning on joining Leicester’s Diwali Day celebrations are being asked to take a quick COVID-19 test before attending the event on Thursday (4 November) – and to take another test before returning to their workplace or school. With COVID rates rising in Leicester, the city’s director of public health is urging people to take extra care at events like Diwali Day and Bonfire Night to reduce the risk of the virus being passed on. The city council has changed the format for this year’s Diwali Day event to encourage people to spread out around the Belgrave Road site, but Professor Ivan Browne is reminding people that there are steps that they can take, to help keep themselves and their community safe. “While the risk of transmission at an outdoor event is much lower than in an indoor space, the virus can easily be passed on when people are close together,” he said. “That’s why we’re asking people to take a quick lateral flow test before attending Diwali Day or Bonfire Night events, just to make sure they’re not carrying the virus without realising it. “We’re also asking people – from primary school age upwards – to test themselves again, before returning to their school or workplace. “To further reduce the risk of transmission, we’re also asking anyone with any cold or flu-like symptoms to stay at home and not mix with others – even if they’ve had a negative rapid COVID test. “Wearing a face covering whenever you’re in a crowded space – whether that’s indoors or outdoors – is a really good idea, and don’t forget that regular hand-washing is an important part of your COVID-19 defences. “Visiting friends and families in their homes is a traditional part of Diwali Day, but please remember that the virus thrives indoors. If you are inviting people in to your home, keep the windows open and encourage visitors to wear a face covering – even if everyone is fully vaccinated. “The best thing you can do to protect yourself and others is to make sure that you’re fully vaccinated against COVI9-19, so please get your jabs, if you haven’t already done so. “It’s especially important for people over 50, or those with health conditions that make them more vulnerable, to get the booster jab as soon as they are eligible. This will make sure they are fully protected throughout the winter period when it is much easier for the virus to spread. “With infection rates on the rise again in Leicester – as we’d expect in the run-up to winter – it’s important that we all do what we can to reduce transmission. And if we follow these simple guidelines, Diwali Day should be a great, and safe, family celebration “I’d like to thank everyone who has had their vaccinations and is helping us to reduce the transmission of the virus in Leicester – and I’d also like to wish you all a very happy Diwali.” After 2020’s virtual celebrations, the city council is taking the festivities back on to the streets of Belgrave this year, but with a new approach that will reduce the need for people to congregate in one place at the same time. In a change to previous years, the stage usually sited near the Belgrave roundabout will be replaced with a giant screen. A second giant screen is close to Belgrave Road’s junction with Wand Street, with a third screen installed on Cossington Street recreation ground. Each of the three screens will show a brand new pre-recorded, cultural programme that will run three times throughout the evening – starting at 5.30pm on Thursday (4 November). Recorded at Leicester’s Curve theatre, the programme will include new performances from artists including tabla player Hari Trivedi, Nupur Arts, the Centre for Indian Classical Dance, and the Shiamak UK dancers, working in partnership with Aakash Odedra. There will also be music from other local artists. Cossington Street recreation ground will host a Diwali Village, featuring food stalls and funfair rides from 3pm-9pm, as well as a beautiful Fire Garden, lighting up the night sky with hundreds of real candles and a dramatic flaming centrepiece. There will also be street entertainers, including fire performers and a large elephant puppet, while the spectacular Wheel of Light on Belgrave Road will take visitors for a spin until Sunday (7 November) and a magical laser-light rainbow will illuminate the skies above Belgrave until Friday (5 November). Shops and restaurants along the Golden Mile will be ready to welcome visitors too – and this year there will be an added incentive for shoppers. Until Sunday (7 November), a bumper package of £2,000-worth of prizes is up for grabs in a competition that’s part of a campaign to help the businesses in Belgrave bounce back from the pandemic. Supported by funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the Diwali Big Shop campaign will promote the attractions of the Golden Mile during the Diwali celebrations – and give shoppers the chance to win some great prizes. Deputy city mayor for culture Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “We were determined to do all we could to bring the Diwali celebrations back to the streets of Leicester this year, while making public safety our priority, so I’m delighted that we’ve been able to do so. “The new format of the event, using the three giant screens, means that people won’t need to congregate in the same space at the same time – and by running the programme three times, we hope we can encourage people to join the celebrations at different times throughout the evening, without missing out on any of the fun. “Although Diwali is back on the streets of Leicester, things are not back to normal and COVID-19 has not gone away. I would urge everyone to listen to our director of public health and take the steps he recommends to help keep us safe. “Let’s celebrate safely – and let’s have a very happy Diwali!” Diwali Day festivities on Thursday 4 November will start with the closure of Belgrave Road at 5pm, followed by the showing of the cultural programme on the big screens at 5.30pm, 6.30pm and 7.30pm. Leicester's Diwali celebrations are generously supported by the University of Leicester. Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leicester, said: "We’re hugely proud to sponsor this year's Diwali celebrations as we mark the University’s Centenary year. “The diversity of culture in our city has been a part of the University’s story from the very beginning and, knowing the importance of the vast Diwali celebrations to the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, this is another opportunity for us to give thanks to the people who have supported our institution in its first 100 years. “We look forward to joining the festivities at what promises to once again be an auspicious occasion.” More information about Diwali Day in Leicester can be found here The history of Leicester’s Diwali celebrations is outlined on the city council’s Story of Leicester website.

People with tickets for Leicester’s Bonfire Night celebrations are being asked to take a quick COVID-19 test before attending the event at Abbey Park on Saturday (6 Nov) – and to take another test on Sunday night (7 Nov), before returning to their workplace or school. With infection rates on the rise, the city council has reduced the capacity of Saturday’s event and cancelled the planned stage programme to prevent people from gathering in one place, but now Leicester’s director of public health is reminding people that there are things they can do too to help keep themselves and their community safe. “While the risk of transmission at an outdoor event is much lower than in an indoor space, the virus can easily be passed on when people are close together,” said Professor Ivan Browne. “That’s why we’re asking people to take a quick lateral flow test before attending a Bonfire Night event, just to make sure they’re not carrying the virus without realising it. “We’re also asking people – from primary school age upwards – to test again on Sunday night, to make sure they’re not taking the virus into their school or workplace on Monday morning. “To further reduce the risk of transmission at Bonfire Night, we’re also asking anyone with any cold or flu-like symptoms to stay at home, even if they’ve had a negative COVID test. “Wearing a face covering whenever you’re in a crowded space – whether that’s indoors or outdoors – is a really good idea, and don’t forget that regular hand-washing is an important part of your COVID-19 defences. “But the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones is to make sure that you’re fully vaccinated against COVI9-19, so please get your jabs, if you haven’t already done so. “With infection rates on the rise again, as we’d expect as we head into winter, it’s important that we all do what we can to reduce transmission. And if we follow these simple guidelines, Bonfire Night should be a great, and safe, family night out.” Tickets for Saturday’s Bonfire Night event have been capped at 8,000 to ensure there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the show safely, and the council has also employed additional marshals to manage any crowding issues and help keep people safe. With only a very limited number of tickets left for Saturday’s event, people are advised to buy their tickets as soon as possible. All tickets must be bought in advance and people are reminded that no tickets will be sold at the gate on the day. The fun starts at 5pm on Saturday, when the funfair and food stalls in Abbey Park will open. Instead of a live stage programme, a mixture of music and live feeds will be played on three big screens around the event site from 6pm, with the children’s firework display and the lighting of the bonfire due to take place at 6.45pm. A countdown to the spectacular main firework display will start at 8pm. Deputy city mayor for culture, leisure and sport Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “We were all so disappointed that last year’s event couldn’t take place because of the pandemic, so I’m delighted that our Bonfire Night event is back with fireworks and fun for all ages. “But let’s make sure it’s a safe event too. Please follow the advice from our director of public health and let’s celebrate Bonfire Night as safely as we can.” A limited number of e-tickets is still available from the De Montfort Hall website at www.demontforthall.co.uk/abbey-park-bonfire Tickets cost £8 for adults, £6 for under 16s and other concessions, while a group ticket for four people costs £20. There’s free admission for children under four. Subject to availability, people can also buy their tickets in person from Visit Leicester – which is located in the King Richard III visitor centre on St Martins – before 3pm on Saturday (6 November). Please note that no tickets will be sold on the gate on the night. People are reminded that no sparklers, fireworks or alcohol can be brought onto the site – and only assistance dogs can be admitted. No parking will be available in Abbey Park, Abbey Park Road, St Margaret’s Pastures car park or in the surrounding areas during the event, and visitors are encouraged to walk, use public transport or cycle to the event, using the bike parks on site. A limited number of spaces for Blue Badge holders are available nearby, but these must be booked in advance by emailing festivals@leicester.gov.uk or by calling the team on 0116 454 3600. For advice on cycling and walking routes, visit www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk

Ambitious plans to transform the entrance to Leicester’s historic railway station have been given a major boost with the award of almost £18million of Government funding. Leicester City Council has successfully bid for £17.6million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund towards a £22million scheme to remodel the station’s entrance and create a more attractive new gateway to the city centre. The station would be effectively restored to its Victorian glory by forming a new entrance onto Station Street, directly facing the city centre, and restoring the booking hall to its original size to create more space for train passengers. The area immediately outside the new entrance will be remodelled with a ramp and steps leading to a large new glazed entrance to the main concourse. The building’s original Station Street façade will also be restored. The covered entrance hall areas on London Road – known as a port cochère – would be transformed into an attractive new plaza for retail, food and drinks, with the existing taxi ranks reallocated nearby on Station Street. Leicester City Council has ringfenced £5million of capital as match-funding for the project. The railway station revamp is seen a first phase of regeneration in the area which, in the longer term, could help attract more private investment and new development in the area. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “The award of almost £18million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of this project. “The railway station is a beautiful building but badly in need of improvement to meet the modern needs of a city the size of Leicester. This exciting project will make a huge difference, helping to transform the area into a vibrant gateway that will make a major contribution to Leicester’s prosperity. “I want to congratulate officers on their hard work with their successful bids to the Government’s Levelling Up programme which has helped attract over £45million of new investment into the city.” Mark Lambert, Head of Infrastructure & Property at East Midlands Railway, said: “This is fantastic news for the people of the city and our customers that use Leicester station. We are looking forward to working closely with the council to help turn these exciting plans into a reality.” The proposals will be subject to planning permission and detailed design and development work is now underway. It is expected that construction will begin in early 2023 and be completed by mid-2024. Leicester City Council was successful in bidding for over £45.5million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund for three major projects that will support the city economic recovery and growth, and help create hundreds of new jobs. Along with the transformation of the Leicester Railway Station, the city council has been awarded £8.5million to transform former factory buildings at Pilot House, on King Street, into new start-up units for creative businesses, and £19.4million for three projects in and around Pioneer Park and Exploration Drive, complementing The University of Leicester’s Space Park development.