A Leicestershire charity has revamped its Highcross headquarters into a visitor centre despite the city facing huge challenges and the toughest levels of lockdown in the country. Leicester Children’s Holidays’ new centre is a feast for the senses with a figure on a zip wire, a mountain biker riding up the wall and photo montages of holidays from the past and modern day. The delayed opening is going ahead at the end of lockdown on Wednesday December 2 with a focus on selling toys on the run-up to Christmas. The visitor centre move is to draw more families in to the centre and offer education sessions for school pupils of all ages. The focal point is a giant ten-metre-high tree of life to represent the charity’s long history. There are word boards and a charity timeline running across the entire space. A range of 300 children’s toys are on sale including board games, dolls, soft toys and puzzles with a ten per cent discount on everything. All profits go straight to the charity which takes disadvantaged children on life-changing holidays. The charity’s manager Nicky Kandola oversaw the project with a lot of 6am starts. She said: “We spent the months of lockdown organising the designs and briefing the suppliers and the contractors. As soon as the restrictions eased, they started work with social distancing guidelines in place. “It is exciting to see it all come together and we hope to welcome visitors of all ages. People in Leicester have already responded to our move into Highcross and tell us stories from over the decades of their own or their family’s experiences “We are pleased to have used local companies for the work and they have done a wonderful job. Highcross management could not have been more supportive during a challenging time. “We are attracting corporate sponsors and now have a revenue stream from the toys on sale. Visitors who buy our toys should know that they are helping our charity at the same time as another disadvantaged child in the county.Everyone can learn about our charity and its history in a dynamic setting.” Earl Shilton interior designer Sarah Palmer-Granville, who runs SPG Interior Design, drew up the centre designs for free. Sarah started with a few drawings of what the unit could look like and then a 3D model. Sarah said: “What the charity is doing to help disadvantaged children is amazing and I am happy to use my expertise to assist with its success.” The principal contractor was Simon Appleby from Applebee Contractors in Oadby, who has long been a supporter of the charity, and provided the work at cost price. He said: “It was an interesting project with the zip wire and the giant wooden tree which was laser cut. Our team of three worked from 6am to 8pm. It was good to help them out.” Nyemachi Atanda from Fast Signs in Leicester provided the outside signage and ‘bus stop’ sign to get the charity’s unit,opposite Zara, noticed. She said: “It was a joy to work on this project for a charity which helps children who easily get forgotten. Nicky Kandola is an awesome person and I pray the charity gets the support it deserves.” Leicester printing company PrintPrint produced the print graphics for both inside and out. Managing director Rubina Lokat said: “It has been great to get the opportunity totransform this space so children and parents can enjoy it. It represents a celebration of 120 years of the charity’s heritage.” Designer Molly Mathews, from Leicester-based creative agency Masters Allen, created all the internal and external graphics. Molly said: “I loved working for such a highly-regarded charity and look forward to seeing families enjoying the space”. The Leicester Children’s Holidays visitor centre is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm. Leicester Children’s Holidays provides free respite breaks for children who live in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and may face difficult circumstances at home. The youngsters may live in a low-income family, have suffered a bereavement, be a child carer looking after a parent or sibling, or need a break for a host of other reasons. The charity has been running since 1898 and has taken 60,000 children on holiday. https://leicesterchildrensholidays.co.uk/

Leicestershire Police are reminding people of the dangers being unfit to drive through drink and / or drugs The campaign was launched today during a FATAL4 operation on St George’s retail park on St George’s Way Leicester During the first sixth months of this year Leicestershire Police made 633 roadside arrests including, 436 drink, 159 drugs and 38 who failed to provide a sample, this is particularly concerning as it included the first COVID lockdown period from late March which not only saw overall traffic levels drop by 80% but also the closure of pubs, bars and restaurants. In 2019 there were 1237arrests, including 950 drink, 216 drug and 71 failing to provide. Assistant Chief Constable Kerry Smith, who is heading up the local drink drug drive campaign, said, “Driving while impaired, whether through drink or drugs, devastates lives. Sadly, each year drink and drugs are a contributory factor in death and serious injury on the UK’s roads. Despite the essential travel only messages, which have been with us for a large part of this year, it is quite clear that far too many drivers have continued to ignore the lockdown guidance and made the decision to get behind the wheel while impaired by drink or drugs.” “We are all facing the prospect of very different festive period this year, despite all the sacrifices we’ve made can I remind drivers not to put themselves and others at risk. Jbecause you haven’t been out at the pub – drinking at home can still leave youover the limit.” “Drivers should be aware that we patrol 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week to challenge drink drug drivers and bring them before the courts.” If you see someone who appears to be a drink or drug driverenter a vehicle to drive away, make a note of the registration plate and the direction of travel and call your local police on 101 or make a make a free and anonymous call to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111. For arrest updates during the campaign follow us on Twitter @RoadSafeLeics

Christmas may feel a little different this year, but crews at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service are determined to spread Christmas cheer to all by sharing gifts through a shoebox appeal. Oakham, Melton and Uppingham fire stations have come together to launch a Christmas shoebox appeal, and are asking residents to tap into their inner Christmas elves to help make and deliver presents. The shoeboxes, which will be full of goodies, will then be distributed to less fortunate people in the community who may otherwise go without. Members of the public can also nominate someone to receive a Christmas shoebox, or request one themselves. Adam Johnson, Crew Manager at Oakham station, came up with the initiative. He said: “Christmas can be an isolating time, and this festive period is set to be even more challenging for the people living in our community. That’s why we’re determined to spread Christmas joy to all. “We have already seen such an incredible display of community spirit as residents rallied together to support vulnerable members of society during the pandemic, and I hope that they’ll show that same support through the supporting our Christmas shoebox appeal.” It’s easy to get involved – just find an empty shoebox, wrap it in Christmas paper, fill it with gifts and drop it off at one of the locations between 3 and 14 December. The drop offs will all be COVID secure and in line with Government guidelines. The stations are asking for shoeboxes for all age groups – ranging from children to the elderly. Gifts could include items such as toys, arts and craft supplies and hygiene items for children, to books, food, drinks and clothing for adults. Gift givers are also encouraged to write a Christmas card to add a personal touch. A number of drop off points will be located around the district, and these will be announced shortly. To request a gift for yourself, nominate someone to receive a shoebox or if you’d like to make your own, then please email shoeboxappeal2020@leics-fire.gov.uk or get in touch on 01162 105331. Facebook Event https://fb.me/e/1ltfCDaHK

Local food delivery business, Simply Takeout, is doing its bit for restaurants in the Leicestershire area. With lockdown part two in full swing, it’s now more important than ever that independent restaurants get the support they need during this time. Simply Takeout is a community focused company with 14 local restaurants signed up, including Bombay Bites, Braunstone Fryer and Alino African Bar. The Leicester-based business is a marketing platform that acts as a partner for restaurants while actively supporting local community initiatives and charities. Customers are able to order food through the brand’s app and website where they will find a wide range of cuisines from pizza to pasta, and Indian to Chinese, including discounts and deals consumers won’t find anywhere else. The online ordering process is quick, easy, and accessible to all ages, offering delicious food from companies which may not have been able to be part of delivery services in the past due its competitor’s high commission fees. While other food delivery services charge restaurants and take outs anywhere between 14-30%* commission on each order, Simply Takeout offer their service to local eateries for 9.5%. Wok Indo was one of the first restaurants to sign up to the platform (pictured). Rinx Amlani, owner, has this to say: “I’m really excited about this partnership, and proud to be working with a business that supports the community. Our fusion of Indian and Chinese cuisine unites people connecting history and traditions, our menu is finely tuned, always using the freshest ingredients to serve food that is brimming with flavours. We are excited to be able to share our food locally with the help of Simply Takeout.” Tim Ghuman, Regional Director of Simply Takeout said: “We have worked really hard behind the scenes to feature a range of cuisines and restaurants that are all of a high standard and we are so happy to be able to help local restaurants during lockdown!” Simply Takeout offers local charities, clubs, and community groups the opportunity to earn money through its affiliate scheme, with the organisation receiving 10% of someone’s first order, and 2.5% of all subsequent orders. For example, if an affiliate organisation gets 500 people to register, and these people placed an average first order of £25, they would earn £1,250. And if these same 500 people ordered once per month over the year then the organisation would earn an additional £3,750 per year. All the charities and organisations need to do is share their unique link to their followers. Simply Takeout have a wide range of cuisines on their app, offering locals flavourful and high-quality food all the time. Simply Takeout is also sponsoring the popular Leicester based food hub website Leicesterfood.com, encouraging locals to find great eats in the area with recommendations from Founder Devan: “I was over the moon when Simply Takeout approached me to discuss sponsoring my website. I am passionate about letting my website visitors and Instagram followers in on the best eateries in town. Now that we are in lockdown again, supporting our local restaurants through delivery services is so important. I make it my mission to find the best food spots, so I can spread the word to the community and help out smaller, independent Leicestershire restaurants, and with Simply Takeout’s help, we can do just that!” A Leicester based food delivery business Simply Takeout is helping local restaurants during lockdown 2.0, with restaurant closures it is now more important than ever to be supporting local eateries through a takeaway service. The company offers restaurants a lower commission fee rate, with other food delivery services charging restaurants and take outs anywhere between 14-30%* commission on each order, Simply Takeout offer their service for 9.5%. The community-led service also works to support local charities through its affiliate scheme as well as sponsoring local foodie hub, Leicester food: “Now that we are in lockdown again, supporting our local restaurants through delivery services is so important. I make it my mission to find the best food spots, so I can spread the word to the community and help out smaller, independent Leicestershire restaurants, and with Simply Takeout’s help, we can do just that!” Comments, Devan, Leicester Food’s Founder. Install the Apple app here For Android users click here Instagram: @simplytakeout Facebook: Simply Takeout UK

Leicestershire Police has launched a brand new team of specially trained special constables who will be dedicated to the needs of rural communities throughout Leicestershire and Rutland. The team will be involved with anything from tackling hare coursing and poaching, to dealing with theft, fly-tipping and investigating other wildlife offences. Like all special constables, the Rural Specials Team will have full policing powers, uniform and protective equipment and will work alongside the regular force to tackle rural crime. Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach said: “The efforts that are being made to tackle crime in rural areas illustrate just how seriously the force and I take the issues faced by those living in rural communities. “Rural crime often presents a different set of challenges, but it is still very much crime, and I know the force is determined to crack down on it. That’s why I particularly welcome the introduction of the dedicated ‘rural’ special constables. Special constables bring a unique and broad range of skills and experiences to our policing family and I’m quite sure that this team will make a significant difference to our rural communities.” The team will be led by Special Sergeant Leigh Moore, who works to support the farmers of England and Wales in his full time job with the National Farmers Union (NFU). Leigh said: “Rural crime is on the increase nationally, with emerging trends occurring all the time. Having a team of like-minded individuals to support our regular colleagues allows us to be in more places more of the time, and that can only be a great thing. “I am fortunate to have a diverse team who can bring skills they have from their many walks of life to such a niche and important community.” Special Constable Ellis Harris-Boulter joined the team because he lives in a rural village and has seen first-hand the incredibly damaging effects that rural crime can have. He says: “I’ve spoken with farmers and locals about the impact they’ve felt, whether it’s due to haystack fires, hare coursing or other rural offences, and in every case it’s had a massive effect on their way of life.” Ellis has spent the last three years policing in the city, but says that thanks to the fantastic training, guidance and mentoring he’s received, he feels confident in dedicating his time to our rural communities. He added: “The regular officers dedicated to policing rural crime work incredibly hard and have the colossal task of policing a very large rural area, so I have no doubt that the additional special crews out and about will enable us to provide even faster support to important issues that affect those living in the countryside most.” To find out more about the Leicestershire's Special Constabulary, please visit the force website leics.police.uk/couldyou or follow @LeicsSpecials on twitter. Leicestershire Police News Release Dated 23/11/2020

Town Hall Square Leicester This short film was produced by Curve in partnership with Leicester City Council’s Festivals and Events team. The song, ‘They Can’t Cancel Christmas’, was especially written for the virtual switch-on by Tasha Taylor Johnson and performed by Rob Green. The city council wishes to thank everyone who helped make the virtual switch-on of Leicester’s Christmas lights so magical. But most of all, we’d like to thank Santa (and Tinker Bell!). They were turned on Friday night on the 20th November. The city council’s lighting team started work in October to put up the decorations that span more than 20 city centre streets. This year, an extra £38,000 has been spent on brand new decorations for Horsefair Street and Humberstone Gate. In Town Hall Square, families will be able to see the traditional Christmas nativity scene, as well as an animated tableau featuring characters from the Tales of Narnia. White pea-lights will light up the trees in Green Dragon Square, while Christmas lights and decorations will also brighten up St Martin’s Square, Highcross and the Haymarket shopping centre this winter. Take a look at our video filmed on Saturday 21st November 2020. Pictures By Leicester Media Clock Tower Leicester Leicester City Council Press Release

Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach has been awarded more than £1.5m to detect and prevent burglary, theft and robbery in three hotspots across the county, it has been revealed. The PCC has secured the funding from the Government’s Safer Streets Fund, which earmarks £25m for increased detection and prevention measures across England and Wales to target acquisitive crime. Leicestershire has been awarded £549,998 for an area in Westcotes that includes Narborough Road and neighbouring streets; £549,999 for the Warwick Way and Dishley estates in Loughborough; and £418,309 for Braunstone Frith. The maximum available for each area is £550k. The funding will now be invested in proactive crime prevention and detection tools including CCTV, enhanced street lighting, graffiti removal and free home security improvements for residents in qualifying areas. It will also fund the appointment of community safety coordinators across all three communities who will work with community groups and residents to deliver crime prevention advice and support. Commenting on the announcement, Willy Bach said: “This is fantastic news for these three areas which our profiling suggested needed additional help. Between them, they have been awarded more than £1.5m of funding for improvements – close to the maximum available from this fund – which will make a real difference to the quality of life in these communities. “The Home Office was impressed with the evidence we presented to highlight the complex problems in these areas and our approach to resolving them. I cannot thank my team and our local partners enough for their extensive efforts in collating Police data and analysing trends to ensure our bids were successful. “This funding is a huge a boost to our partnership work, giving us the opportunity of taking assertive measures to deter crime in these areas and improve our ability to detect it. The learning from this work will be given to the Home Office to help identify best practice. “We are looking forward to working with these communities and our partners to improve public safety, achieve long-term reductions in acquisitive crime and importantly reduce fear among local people. “At a really tough time like this, it is superb news for our communities.” Cllr Piara Singh Clair, Chair of the Safer Leicester Partnership and Deputy City Mayor said: “We are delighted to be awarded this grant from the Home Office and I am hopeful that the grant will help us to create safer streets in these parts of the city,”. Cllr Leigh Harper-Davies, lead member for communities at Charnwood Borough Council, added: “This is good news for residents in the Warwick Way and Dishley areas of Loughborough. We look forward to this project developing so it can help tackle burglaries and thefts in those areas. “Charnwood is a safe place but we cannot be complacent and when there are problems, the Council will work with partners to tackle them. We are delighted to be working with the Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner and Leicestershire Police.” If you live in Westcotes area that includes Narborough Road and neighbouring streets or in Warwick Way and Dishley estates in Loughborough and Braunstone Frith in Leicester. You could apply for the Safer Streets Scheme and get Free door and window alarms and security devices including security lights fiited. Trevor a local resident from Braunstone Frith said: "As with most something for nothing schemes, I first thought this is too good to be true and has to be a scam, but this was not the case, after phoning the contact number an appointment was made 14 days later for a site survey. A phone call was received to say the engineer was on the way, a 10 minute walk round following covid standards was made and all internal items installed within 40 minutes, including fence spikes. The lights were installed by a separate electrical engineer 2 weeks later, but as they are solar powered no access to the inside of the house was required. all locks came with 2 keys. Locks 24-7 are a reputable company and the fitter was a fully qualified locksmith" We’ve teamed up with the Home Office, Leicester City Council, Charnwood Borough Council and 24/7 Locks to enhance home security in Westcotes, Braunstone Frith and the Warwick Way & Dishley estates. TO RECEIVE YOUR FREE SECURITY UPGRADES Call 0800 678 5458 Safer Streets Scheme THESE SECURITY UPGRADES INCLUDE FITTING PRODUCTS SUCH AS: HIGH-SECURITY DOOR LOCKS WINDOW LOCKS SECURITY LIGHTING DOOR ALARMS WINDOW ALERT ALARMS & OTHER ITEMS THIS SCHEME IS GOVERNMENT FUNDED AND THERE IS NO CHARGE TO RESIDENTS *THIS OFFER IS AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED PERIOD ONLY* #SaferStreets

Before you deck the halls with boughs of holly, read the rules and stay jolly. Thinking about putting up your Christmas lights. then spend a few minutes reading some advice from Leicestershire Fire service. Check fairy lights are in good working order and replace any bulbs that blow – they should conform to the British Standard (BS EN 60598). Switch off fairy lights and unplug them before you go to bed, or leave the house. Don’t let bulbs touch anything that can burn easily, such as paper or fabrics. You may have more electrical items in use when you are celebrating so be careful not overload sockets – only use one plug per socket. Always turn off plugs when they are not in use, except those that are designed to be left on, like freezers. Always use an RCD (residual current device) on outdoor electrical equipment – this safety device can be bought in DIY stores and save lives by instantly switching off the power if there is a fault. Candles and divas are one of the biggest causes of fire within the home so people need to be educated about the dangers and damage they can cause If you use candles or tea lights we urge you to follow the key safety tips below to keep you, your home and your family safe: Make sure candles and tea lights are secured in a proper holder and away from materials that may catch fire – like curtains, furniture etc. Keep candles and divas away from draughts. Never move a candle once it is lit. Do not burn several candles close together as this might cause flaring (mainly with tea-lights). Never put divas or candles on top of televisions or other plastic surfaces when alight. Put candles out when you leave the room, and make sure they’re put out completely at night. Keep children and pets away from lit candles. NEVER use a candle for a night light. Visit Leicestershire Fire and Rescue web site for more advice on safety in the home. https://leics-fire.gov.uk/your-safety/at-home/

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland have faced challenging times during the Covid pandemic, however, Leicestershire Police has continued to work tirelessly to help keep the public safe dealing with over 16,000 reports of breaches. In addition to this since government restrictions came into being in March the force has issued fines to 589 people. 17 officers have been assaulted in Covid-related incidents involving spitting or coughing. 1244 licensed premises have been visited with partners. While the force continues its work to engage, explain and encourage in relation to the guidelines, enforcement action is being taken when guidelines are not being followed and advice is not being taken. A number of people have attracted the higher fine of £10,000 for the offence of organising or facilitating an organised gathering under the Health Protection Regulations. New breaches are listed as below: 25 Oct – Person from Charles Street, Leicester, holding a party at premises for more than 30 people 31 Oct – Person from London fined for holding a party at premise for more than 30 people The value of the fine is dependent on a number of factors including when the fine is paid and the number of offences committed - but can be up to £10,000. Chief Constable Simon Cole said: "I am very proud of the work that your local force has continued to do, we work hard, putting ourselves at risk in order to keep others safe. We have also continued with our day to day policing, preventing crime and dealing with offenders all across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. "I am very aware that the vast majority of people are obeying the rules and I am sure we are all finding the lockdown tough and the length of time we have been under restrictions is tiring. "How many times do we remind people that taking these risks not only could result in a substantial fine but that they are putting other people’s lives and livelihoods at risk? "We continue to work closely with health, local councils and other agencies who are also working really hard to ensure people understand what this pandemic means and how to protect ourselves. "We continue to engage with the public, explain the need to follow the regulations and encourage people to do so however, we will take enforcement action where and when it is required." For more information on the current guidelines, visit www.gov.uk Leicestershire Poiice News Release Dated 20/11/20

Two new heritage information panels recounting the events of Leicester’s ‘Blitz Night’ have been installed in the city. They commemorate the 80th anniversary of the night of 19-20 November 1940, when Leicester faced its worst raid at the hands of German bombers, and 108 people lost their lives. The panels can be found at the junction of Rutland Street and Humberstone Road, near the city centre, and at the junction of Saxby Street and Sparkenhoe Street, in Highfields. The Highfields panel tells the story of three large bombs which fell on the crossroads of Sparkenhoe, Saxby and Stoughton streets. Saxby Street Methodist Church received a direct hit, but luckily 40 people in the Wesleyan Chapel schoolrooms next door – now Sparkenhoe Primary School – received only minor injuries. Help raced to the scene, and the panel is dedicated to the 28 members of Leicester’s ARP, civil defence and police services who died during the Second World War. The panel at the junction of Rutland Street and Humberstone Road recounts the bombing of shoe manufacturers Freeman, Hardy and Willis, whose headquarters stood on this corner. A large fire took hold after a bomb fell on the building, and the panel is dedicated to the memory of Leicester’s wartime city fire brigade and auxiliary fire service. Deputy city mayor and heritage champion Cllr Adam Clarke said: “These panels recognise the amazing wartime efforts of Leicester people – and perhaps, with the current restrictions on our lives, we can appreciate their sacrifices more than ever.” Author and local historian Austin J. Ruddy, who helped to produce the panels, said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to help perpetuate the memory of these largely unknown and unsung civil defence heroes, who so bravely and altruistically aided their fellow citizens on that terrible night - in some cases, losing their lives whilst doing so. The Leicester Blitz is often overlooked but it really is an important episode in the city's history and these heritage information panels will help ensure that this story is not forgotten.” Mary Maynard, the daughter of Dr Garrett, who is pictured on the panel with his ARP team said: "My father had designed and built a mobile first aid post from an old charabanc. This was sent to the Highfields area where it was destroyed by a direct hit - but the team had already moved into a building where they were treating the wounded. “Previously, when the ‘all clear’ sirens sounded, he returned home. That night, he did not return until the early hours of the morning. I remember him grey with dust and his black shoes cut with broken glass. It is a miracle that he survived. Many did not - they all should be remembered.” Rosemary Bonser’s father, Harry Ford, appears in the back row of the ARP squad. She said: “We were so young, our memories of the Blitz are the frightening sound of the sirens. I am still scared by thunderstorms because it sounds just like the bombs falling.” The panels will be complemented by a new exhibition at Newarke Houses Museum, called The Leicester Blitz – the German Air Raid on Leicester, 19-20 Nov 1940. The exhibition will show how Leicester prepared for air raids and covers all the German attacks. It will also show how people acted on those nights, often in the words of those who were there. Accompanying their stories are many photographs and paintings of the damage done. Subject to national lockdown restrictions being lifted, it is hoped the exhibition will open in early December, and run until 21 February 2021. Entry will be free, and a booking system will be in operation – please check leicestermuseums.org for updates. Deputy city mayor for culture, leisure and sport Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “These new panels and exhibition are a wonderful tribute to the people who led the rescue efforts during the Leicester Blitz, as well as a poignant reminder of those who lost their lives. I’m very pleased we’ve been able to mark the 80th anniversary of the Leicester Blitz night in this way.” Leicester’s heritage information panels are part of the Story of Leicester history project. They can be seen in shopping centres, on medieval churches, near former warehouses and in front of the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Corn Exchange. They can also be seen in Leicester’s historic villages, including Aylestone, Belgrave and Evington. The panels are grouped in themes to tell different chapters in the city’s story, and each theme is colour-coded to make them easy to identify. To find out more about the Story of Leicester, visit the website at www.storyofleicester.info Find out more about the Leicester Blitz at https://www.leicestermuseums.org/news/the-leicester-blitz-1940/ Leicester City Press release Published on Thursday, November 19, 2020

Police Cadet Tyler Hodkinson has been named as the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire’s Young Person of the Year. Tyler, 17, was nominated for the award following a remarkable act of bravery and selflessness at the scene of a road traffic incident in Whitwick. At the scene of the incident, Tyler bravely put his feelings aside and performed first aid. When Tyler realised that there was nothing more he could do, he chose to stay with the child until help arrived. After receiving the award at Lord Lieutenant Mike Kapur’s virtual ceremony on Tuesday 17 November, Tyler said: “It was so heart-warming to be chosen as the winner, I really wasn’t expecting it at all. I’d like to thank my cadet leaders, Lynette and Rich, and all of the other leaders who have been excellent in supporting me, as well as my parents and the army cadets. “The months following the incident were quite difficult for me, but talking about it and interacting with people at cadet sessions really helped me. I’ve also enjoyed helping out with community engagement. Cadets gives me something positive to focus my time on.” Chief Constable Simon Cole congratulated Tyler on the award and thanked him for his brave actions. He said: “The way in which Tyler handled a really distressing incident is nothing short of remarkable. He was the first person to step in and help, and he did everything he could to try and save a life in an extreme circumstance. He should be unbelievably proud of his actions. He’s an outstanding Police Cadet and is a truly deserving winner of this award. Well done, Tyler.” Tyler’s Cadet Leader, PCSO Lynette Rose, nominated him for the award and attended the virtual award ceremony on Tuesday. She said: “I am so pleased for Tyler, he really does deserve this award. He is a pleasure to teach and is always willing to put himself forward by volunteering to assist with community events through the police cadets. He is always willing to volunteer his time to better the lives of others. “I would like to wish him all the very best in his future career, whether he chooses a career in the Army or Police service, I know he’ll make a fantastic officer.” Tyler is hoping to join the military police after he completes his A Levels next year. He’s also completing his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award through the force.

A vaccine study for COVID-19 will open soon at Leicester’s Hospitals through the new Patient Recruitment Centre (PRC) in Leicester, which is a government funded initiative through the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The global study, which is in phase three, will test the safety and effectiveness of a new two-dose regimen for a vaccine candidate for the prevention of COVID-19, which has been developed by Janssen, a pharmaceutical company owned by Johnson & Johnson. This study will investigate a vaccine that uses a part of the coronavirus, called the spike protein, which the immune system will then recognise and fight should a real infection of COVID-19 occur. It is expected that 30,000 participants will be recruited worldwide, of which 6,000 are expected to be recruited in the UK. To take part in the study, participants need to be 18 years of age and older, with and without existing health conditions that are thought to be linked with increased risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. The study will follow the participants for up to two years and three months for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 to determine how long protection lasts. The PRC is one of five in England, dedicated to setting up and delivering late phase commercial clinical trials in the NHS at pace and scale. PRC Leicester is hosted by the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and based at Leicester General Hospital. The study is also being supported by the NIHR Clinical Research Network East Midlands. Professor Melanie Davies, Clinical Director of NIHR Patient Recruitment Centre, Leicester said: “We are pleased to be able to offer our local community the opportunity to take part in this important study, particularly when nationally there is a significant increase in cases of COVID-19 in the community and being treated in hospital. “Having been under lockdown measures for a prolonged period, the people of Leicester will understand how important it is to find an effective vaccine so we can try to resume some normality and fight this virus. “The expertise and hard-work from our staff has also allowed Leicester to shine as a global centre for research. The opening of this vaccine trial is another milestone in that success-story.” Paul Stoffels, M.D., Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee and Chief Scientific Officer, Johnson & Johnson said: “We are delighted to be initiating our global Phase 3 trial in the UK to study the safety and efficacy of a two-dose regimen of our investigational COVID-19 vaccine candidate. This collaboration with UK researchers and the NIHR demonstrates our continued commitment to working together with partners around the world, and marks another positive step forward as we strive to find solutions to this global health crisis.” Business Secretary, Alok Sharma, said: “The start of further clinical trials in the UK is yet another step forward in the race to discover a safe and effective vaccine, and comes alongside recent news that we could be on the cusp of the first major breakthrough since the pandemic began. “While we are optimistic with the progress being made, there are no guarantees and it is possible there will be no one-size-fits-all vaccine. That is why it is absolutely vital that while our scientists are cracking on with the job, we continue to follow the guidance to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.” The UK government has developed a portfolio of six different vaccine candidates and secured access to 350 million doses to date. Of this, an agreement has been made in principle to include 30 million doses of the Janssen vaccine will be made available to the UK if it is safe and effective. The UK public can support the national effort to speed up vaccine research and receive more information about volunteering for clinical studies by visiting www.nhs.uk/researchcontact to join the NHS Covid-19 Vaccine Research Registry. The Registry was launched by the government in partnership with the NIHR, NHS Digital, the Scottish and Welsh governments and the Northern Ireland Executive in July. It aims to help create a database of people who consent to be contacted by the NHS to take part in clinical studies, to help speed up the development of a safe and effective vaccine. To register your interest in the vaccine trial in Leicester email: ENSEMBLE2_Mailbox@uhl-tr.nhs.uk