Thousands participated in the city's Leicester Pride annual LGBTQ+, with over 3,500 joining the parade that started at the Curve travelling through the heart of Leicester, passing some of the city's most recognisable landmarks and arriving at Abbey Park. Organisers say at its peak up to 20,000 people attended the event at Abbey Park. Leicester Pride has deliberately maintained its free-entry model, helping ensure that the celebration remains accessible to the whole community. As a registered charity, Leicester Pride works with sponsors and partners to keep the festival free, with money raised invested into its annual events or donated to other local LGBTQ+ charities. Alongside the party, organisers say the event remains rooted in the principles on which Pride was built: LGBTQ+ visibility, equality, community, support and the right for people to live openly and authentically. The scale of Leicester Pride also reflects the extraordinary strength of Pride across the Midlands, with celebrations now taking place in cities, towns and communities throughout the region. Watch our main stage highlight video Below is the full official Leicester Pride Main stage video for 2026 by Leicester Media Online. Below is the full official Leicester Pride Parade video for 2026 by Leicester Media Online. Hundreds of pictures are posted on the Leicester Pride Facebook page, check them out. Pictures by The Leicester Pride Team Photographers Leicester Media is proud to be the official media partner for Leicester Pride since 2008

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has now secured enhanced police patrols for market towns across Leicestershire, delivering on a key commitment to residents, businesses and local communities. By December, Market Harborough, Hinckley, Loughborough, Coalville, Melton Mowbray and Ashby-de-la-Zouch will benefit from additional police patrols focused on tackling persistent concerns around anti-social behaviour and shoplifting, boosting visibility and helping make town centres safer and more welcoming places to live, work and visit. In May, Mr Matthews announced plans to improve community safety in the county's market towns, making clear he was prepared to commission an external provider if necessary to deliver the visible policing residents were calling for. As part of his process to find the most effective solution, he asked Chief Constable if the force could identify a solution that would meet those needs. Following consideration of all available options, including private sector alternatives, Leicestershire Police will now deliver the enhanced patrols under a Service Level Agreement using police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). The arrangement will cost less than originally budgeted by the Commissioner, with savings reinvested into further crime prevention initiatives across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Mr Matthews the PCC said: "I was determined to deliver the additional patrols I promised to the public. Residents and businesses in these towns have told me that policing can feel too distant, and that is simply not good enough. People deserve to feel safe where they live, work and shop. "Visible policing plays a vital role in preventing crime and anti-social behaviour before it takes hold. Strong police presence helps build confidence, reassures communities and supports thriving town centres. "I set the Chief Constable a clear challenge, and I am pleased that Leicestershire Police has responded with a practical and cost-effective plan that delivers the extra patrols local people want to see. "I'm particularly pleased that this initiative will be up and running before Christmas, providing additional reassurance to residents and valuable support to retailers during one of the busiest times of the year." Chief Constable David Sandall added: "Leicestershire Police has a proud history of neighbourhood policing, with visible patrols being undertaken on a daily basis by named dedicated officers and PCSOs across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. “Leicestershire Police were able to provide a clear data led and evidence-based solution to support the Police and Crime Commissioner's police and crime plan and focus on County Towns. “The solution proposed contributes to the wider financial stability and helps mitigate in the short term some of the anticipated further reductions in resources of Leicestershire Police, by bringing this project delivery back into the operational space, where using our PCSOs we can specifically deploy resources in the County Towns based on the data in these specific areas. We do understand the impact that retail crime and anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on our communities, and we know from our previous successful work and proven track record in effectively policing 'crime hotspot' areas that engagement, problem solving and working with partners can make a real difference. “This project will use data evidence to ensure we are putting visible PCSO patrols in the right places at the right time, using a problem-solving approach and working closely with business owners and partners in our County Towns to ensure that we can continue to build trust and confidence in our communities." The enhanced patrols form part of the PCC's wider commitment to preventing crime, supporting local businesses and ensuring communities across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland benefit from visible, accessible and effective policing.

Police officers from East Leicester conducted a raid on a shop in the St Matthew's area of the city and seized a significant quantity of nitrous oxide cans. Local dedicated 16 Beat Team carried out a warrant at a shop in St Matthew's, seizing a huge quantity of nitrous oxide canisters worth approximately £4,500. Nitrous oxide has been illegal to possess for recreational use since 2023. What may seem like harmless "laughing gas" can have serious consequences. If you know of any shops selling nitrous oxide illegally, or have information about drug-related activity in your area, please help us protect our communities by reporting it via 101 or anonymously online using the links below. Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 Pictures credits -East Leicester Police

More than 450 free home security devices have been distributed to residents through the Police and Crime Commissioner's Prevent and Protect scheme across two successful collection events. Held in Loughborough on 28th August and Thurmaston on 4th September, the events gave eligible residents the opportunity to collect a free WiFi CCTV camera, video doorbell or motion-sensor security light to help protect their homes from burglary. The eligible postcode areas were identified using police data, targeting support at areas at increased risk of burglary. Tackling neighbourhood crime is a key priority in the Police and Crime Plan, with the PCC committed to investing in practical crime prevention measures that help keep people and property safe. Further Prevent and Protect events are being considered in areas where police data indicates crime prevention support is most needed. Details will be announced in due course.

Work will soon begin on a £200,000 project to provide more electric vehicle charging in a Loughborough car park. An artist’s impression of how the canopy will look Charnwood Borough Council is investing in a new solar canopy, battery storage system and electric vehicle charging hub at Southfield Road Extension Car Park. Work is due to start on Monday, 7 September 2026, and is expected to be completed by early October. Southfield Road Extension Car Park Cllr Beverley Gray, the Council's Cabinet Lead Member for Climate Action and Net Zero, said: “This is an exciting investment that will provide more charging facilities for electric vehicle users while supporting our commitment to tackle climate change. "Making it easier for people to charge electric vehicles is an important part of creating a more sustainable future and this project will be a positive addition for residents, visitors and businesses in Loughborough." The solar canopy will generate renewable electricity to support the charging hub which will have 12 charging stations for motorists to use. Funding from the scheme has come through a county-wide initiative, backed by Government electric vehicle infrastructure funding, to increase charging points across Leicestershire. During the construction, a number of parking spaces will be unavailable at Southfield Road Extension Car Park. It will also be necessary to close the car park completely for short periods to allow for safe working. Motorists are advised that parking is also available at the nearby Beehive Lane Car Park. Charnwood Borough Council News - Published: Thu 3rd September, 2026

A piano studio in Hinckley, where students range from toddlers taking their first music lessons to retirees embracing a new challenge, has become one of the first businesses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to be recognised as a Mental Health Friendly Place. The recognition was awarded by Leicestershire County Council's Public Health team. Pianista Music Studio has joined a growing network of Mental Health Friendly Places across the area, recognising organisations that help people feel connected, supported and able to talk openly about their wellbeing. Run by Dr Roberto Ponticelli and Maria Torres, the studio teaches piano to people aged from three-and-a-half to over 80. Alongside learning music, students develop confidence, resilience and valuable social connections through a welcoming and supportive environment. The recognition follows Mental Health First Aid training and the studio's commitment to putting people's wellbeing at the heart of its work. Roberto said: "We see the person first, then the piano. Music brings people together, but it's the relationships and human connection that matter most. Becoming a Mental Health Friendly Place gives us the skills and confidence to better support people and help them find the right help if they need it." The Mental Health Friendly Places programme has already helped community venues, charities, sports clubs and organisations across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland create environments where people feel listened to and connected. Following growing interest, the programme has now expanded to businesses, helping employers and local organisations support the mental wellbeing of customers and the wider community. Pianista Music Studio is among the first businesses to gain the recognition, highlighting the important role that everyday local businesses can play in improving wellbeing and reducing social isolation. Learning new skills, staying active and connecting with others are all part of the Five Ways to Wellbeing promoted through the programme. Roberto added: "If you put people first, everybody benefits. It's about building positive relationships and creating a place where people feel welcomed, valued and encouraged." Students and families say the benefits of learning at Pianista Music Studio go far beyond music. Parent Sapna said: "Learning piano has helped my son develop confidence, resilience and a real sense of achievement. I've seen the positive impact it has had on his wellbeing, and I'm grateful to Maria for supporting both of my children. "Pete, who started piano lessons in his 50s with no previous musical experience, said: "I don't see it as just learning an instrument. It's about continuing to challenge myself and developing an interest that I can carry into retirement. "Learning something completely new has built my confidence and taught me to be comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. There's something quite liberating about being a beginner again." Businesses can sign up to the programme by visiting the Start a Conversation website and join the 257 organisations and sports clubs across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) committed to supporting the wellbeing of their local communities. Leicestershire County Council News - Tuesday, 8 September, 2026

The Leader of Charnwood Borough Council has issued a statement following the announcement by Government that it is reviewing local government reorganisation decisions for a number of areas, including Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. In July this year, the Government announced that it had made a decision to replace the 10 councils in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland with two new unitary councils to deliver all services. It now says that decision, along with other decisions in other areas, is under review. Cllr Jewel Miah, Leader of Charnwood Borough Council, said: "I welcome the Government's decision to review its decision for local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. This is the biggest change to local government in a generation and it is important that any final decisions are taken with full consideration of the evidence and views of local councils and communities. Charnwood Borough Council has engaged constructively throughout this process and will continue to do so. We remain committed to working together with neighbouring councils and partners to help shape the best possible future for our residents and local services. I will be meeting with fellow council leaders to discuss the implications of this announcement and possible ways forward for our area. I also welcome the opportunity to provide any further input into the review. I will be meeting with Government ministers next week to discuss the matter." Charnwood Borough Council News - Published: Monday 7th September, 2026

Leicester’s historic buildings will reveal their fascinating stories in a series of open days this month – and they’re all free. The annual Heritage Open Days festival – which this year runs from Friday 11 to Sunday 20 September – is a once-a-year chance to find out more about the city’s rich architectural heritage. As well as opening buildings or parts of buildings not normally accessible to the public, organisers are offering guided tours, walks and exhibitions, with more than 60 events taking place over ten days. Events on offer include a chance to explore inside Leicester’s medieval Magazine Gateway, open days at some of Leicester’s finest historic churches and the return of the popular tours of Abbey Pumping Station’s transport shed and beam engine. There will be free expertly guided walking tours of Georgian Leicester, the historic Greyfriars Legal Quarter and, new for this year, the High Street and Leicester Lanes and the Wharf Street area. The team at Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage will be inviting people to drop into their ‘Living Archive’ on Bowling Green Street. Among the historic buildings opening their doors for the annual heritage festival are Winstanley House in Braunstone Park, the Grade I listed City Rooms, Braunstone Stables, Clarence House and Glenfield Hospital Creative Health and Heritage Centre. Leicester’s Guildhall will be hosting an exhibition from Leicester Photographic Archive; running themed guided tours to help visitors discover the secret history of the medieval building; and, offering a rare chance to explore the rare book collection inside the Jury Room, with support from Leicestershire Archaeological & Historical Society. The Y Theatre will be celebrating its landmark birthday with special performances of 125 years in 125 Minutes, and local arts organisation Pedestrian will be sharing a free live performance inspired by their ‘Tell Tall Tales’ interpretations of local folklore. Leicester Museum and Art Gallery will be sharing 100 rarely seen objects from the museum service stored collection. Pictures, stories and objects have been selected by museum volunteers and illustrate the depth and breadth of the city’s museum’s collection. City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Every year the popular Heritage Open Days season of events offers us the opportunity to discover more about Leicester’s intriguing and historic buildings. Many businesses, venues and places of worship will open their doors allowing more people to explore our city’s rich architectural heritage – and it’s all free.” Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for culture, added: “Our Heritage Open Days season is a chance to celebrate Leicester’s rich and diverse built heritage with a brilliant programme of free events, tours, exhibitions, and talks. “From hidden gems to historic landmarks, everyone is welcome to explore Leicester’s past and discover the stories that helped shape our city’s identity.” For full details of all events taking place as part of the Heritage Open Days festival, download the brochure from the website. All events are free to attend, although booking is required for some activities. Download the 2026 Brochure

Supporting people to live at home, and settle after a hospital stay, is all in a day’s work for a dedicated care team now looking for around 25 new recruits. Leicestershire County Council wants to expand its specialist Homecare and Reablement Team (HART) which helps people return home after a spell in hospital and avoid admission. A big recruitment drive, including videos and a social media campaign, is now live and students, family carers and people after a career change are being urged to apply. Fiona Kaye is a HART support worker and explains what the role involves. Fiona said: "We give a helping hand at home while people get back on their feet, ranging from meals and personal care to rebuilding everyday skills and confidence. "People do get tired of hearing about how much I love my job - but it’s true! Seeing someone achieve a goal, whether that’s showering independently or making a cup of tea, is incredibly rewarding." Expanding the 100-strong team of support workers is part of the council’s Better Leicestershire Programme, designed to drive down costs and improve services. Every year, HART carers help around 4,000 adults. Councillor Michael Squires, cabinet member for adult social care said: "Every day, our Homecare Assessment & Reablement (HART) team makes a real difference. "The team helps people rebuild daily living skills so that people can remain living independently their own home for longer. "Expanding HART means we can help around 700 more people a year, reducing the need for more costly care packages and residential care. This is forecast to save £3.4M by 2030, and reduces the financial burden upon individuals. "We are proving that by spending smarter, it's possible to deliver better outcomes for residents -for less. “No prior experience is required. “If you're caring, committed and enthusiastic, this could be the perfect role for you." Find out more by visiting the website or call 0116 305 3218

The Age UK shop in Leicester Superstore is calling on local people to donate their unwanted items and help change the lives of older people this winter by taking part in The Great Winter Bag Drop. The winter can be one of the toughest times of the year, but for older people it can be even more challenging. One in five older people say they often feel forgotten however this can be made worse during the colder months. Not only can cold temperatures seriously affect older people’s health, but the darker days can make it harder to get out and about and stay connected, leaving many feeling isolated and with no one to turn to for help. The campaign encourages residents to clear out quality pre-loved items they no longer need and donate them to their nearest Age UK shop, helping the Charity to fund vital services for older people who may be struggling this winter. Age UK shops are reliant on generous donations from the local community to help keep the shelves stocked and offer a wider range of pre-loved items, which are sold on to be loved again. Money raised from the Charity’s shops goes towards Age UK’s vital services, including its Telephone Friendship Service, free and confidential Advice Line and The Silver Line Helpline. These services can be a lifeline to older people by providing friendship, support and advice to those who are vulnerable and struggling during the colder months. Harley, Shop Manager at the Age UK Leicester Superstore, said: “We're asking everyone in the local area to get involved in The Great Winter Bag Drop, by having a clear out and donating any good-quality items you no longer want or need to the Age UK Leicester Superstore at 8 Counting House Road, Leicester LE2 7LT. Whether it's clothing, shoes, accessories, books, homeware or other pre-loved treasures - every donation can make a difference to older people this winter. “When donating, people can also make their gifts worth an extra 25% to the Charity by signing up to Gift Aid. Completing a simple form when dropping off donations, means Age UK can receive an additional 25p from the Government for every £1 raised. Please join in so that together, we can help make sure older people receive the support, advice and companionship they need." The Great Winter Bag Drop - donate to our charity shops | Age UK Age UK, 7th Floor, One America Square, 17 Crosswall, London, EC3N 2LB. Registered charity number 1128267

With two people charged with the murder of Geroge Glover, and one teenager found guilty of manslaughter at Leicester Crown Court, it’s been busy for the Leicestershire Police force throughout August. This is just a snapshot of the work the officers have been carrying out. Charged… Abdulrahman Sayedamed Abdullah A man has been charged with drugs offences after officers recovered a quantity of drugs in the city centre. Abdulrahman Sayedamed Abdullah, 22, of no fixed address, has been charged with production of crack cocaine and five counts of possession with intent to supply controlled substances (class A-C). The charges relate to a routine stop in Town Hall Square on 3 August. Kyle Osbourne A man has been charged with several theft and vehicle related offences. Kyle Osbourne, 33, of Lime Grove Close, Leicester, has been charged with four counts of theft from motor vehicle, eight counts of vehicle interference, possession of a class A drug, criminal damage and two counts of theft from person. The charges relate to incidents in several areas including West Leicester, Charnwood and Hinckley and Blaby NPAs, between January and April this year. Narborough Road murder investigation Two men have been charged with murder following the death of George Glover in Leicester. They are: Chae Smith, 31, of no fixed abode. He has also been charged with one count of robbery and one count of possession of a bladed article Joshua Cook, 24, of no fixed abode. He has also been charged with one count of robbery In addition Louise O’Connor, 39, of Noel Street in Leicester has been charged with one count of robbery. The charges relate to the death of Mr Glover, 27, who was attacked in Narborough Road on Monday 17 August and died as a result of his injuries later that week. Corporate manslaughter A company has been charged with corporate manslaughter following the death of a man in April 2021. Green Steel and Cladding Ltd, formerly of Kirkgate, Whaplode, Spalding, Lincolnshire, is charged with corporate manslaughter following the death of Paul Johnson, 45. Mr Johnson was seriously injured at a premises in Wireless Hill, South Luffenham, on 15 April 2021 while working on behalf of Green Steel and Cladding Ltd. He later died in hospital on 16 April 2021. Green Steel and Cladding Ltd is also charged with failing to discharge a duty contrary to sections 2(1) and 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work Act and with failing to discharge a duty, contrary to sections 3(1) and 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Paul Gaines, 58, of Middle Marsh Road, Spalding, Lincolnshire, is charged with gross negligence manslaughter in connection with Mr Johnson’s death. Gaines is also charged with being an officer of a body corporate which committed an offence contrary to section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act and with being an officer of a body corporate which committed an offence contrary to section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act. …and in court Ben Dodd Four girls who came forward after being groomed and blackmailed by a stranger into providing indecent content of themselves have been praised for their bravery and courage. Ben Dodd targeted the girls, aged 14 to 17, through social media and encouraged them to send him images and videos of a sexual nature. He then blackmailed them into sending him more material by threatening to share the content with their friends and family. On Friday 14 August he was sentenced at Leicester Crown Court for 15 offences after pleading guilty in March this year. He was given a two-year custodial sentence, suspended for two years, 200 hours of unpaid work and a rehabilitation order. He is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for 10 years. Bravery of young victims in cyber blackmail investigation sees sex offender sentenced Gary and Jack Moore A father and son have admitted robbing several businesses in Leicester and Nottingham. Gary and Jack Moore pleaded guilty to a string of offences when they appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Monday 24 August. Between them, they committed their offences between 31 May and 2 July this year, targeting several shops by threatening staff and stealing quantities of cash. Father and son plead guilty to string of robberies Former SPC Jamie Wallace A former Leicestershire Special Police Constable has been sentenced to a two-year community order after pleading guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children. Jamie Wallace, 22, of Leicestershire, was sentenced on 26 August at Leicester Crown Court after he previously admitted the charges at Leicester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 8 April. Haper Dennis A teenager has been jailed for killing De Montfort University student Khaleed Oladipo following a fatal stabbing in Leicester city centre. Harper Dennis, 19, who was also a student in his first year at the University of Leicester, was convicted of manslaughter on Tuesday 25 August after a trial at Leicester Crown Court. He was also found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon and one count of failing to provide his PIN number under Section 49 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA). Read more about this and watch some of the interview footage: click here Leicestershire Police - Published: 15:53 02/09/2026

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated medical care, including older people’s care, at the Glenfield Hospital as Good overall, following an unannounced inspection in March 2026. The service has improved from its previous rating of Requires Improvement, with the key domains of Safe, Caring, Effective and Responsive rated Good, and the service receiving an Outstanding rating for Well-led. The inspection took place on 2 and 3 March 2026 and included visits to seven wards, reviews of 15 patient records, and conversations with 34 patients and family members and 63 members of staff. Inspectors found patients were safe and cared for in a clean environment, staff were well trained and prepared for emergencies, and care was delivered with kindness and dignity. The report described a “compassionate, confident, calm and highly competent medical care service” and highlighted strong multidisciplinary working, excellent handovers and board rounds, and an outstanding whole-team approach within the Coronary Care Unit. Patients and families spoke positively about their experience of care, describing staff as approachable, visible and kind. Inspectors awarded the highest possible score for kindness, compassion and dignity, noting that patients felt listened to, involved in decisions about their care, and treated with respect. The CQC also recognised the strength of local leadership and governance arrangements, innovative clinical practice and research activity, and initiatives to widen opportunities for young people with learning disabilities and autism to experience work through student placements. Inspectors found leaders were fully aware of risks and pressures within services and had effective governance processes in place to manage them. Richard Mitchell, Chief Executive at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted that the CQC has recognised the significant progress made by our medical care teams at the Glenfield Hospital. “This report reflects the exceptional commitment, professionalism and compassion of our colleagues, who provide outstanding care for patients every day. We are particularly pleased to see patients and families speaking so positively about their experiences and that our leadership teams have been recognised with an Outstanding rating for well-led. “The findings highlight the expertise of our teams, the strength of our multidisciplinary working and our commitment to research, innovation and continuous improvement. “I would like to thank all colleagues who contributed to the inspection and who continue to deliver high-quality care day in and day out.” While recognising many areas of excellent practice, the CQC identified a small number of areas where further improvement is needed. These included some estate limitations, closing patient safety incident reporting in a timely manner, and some isolated environmental issues that were immediately acted on during the inspection. In many cases, action was taken immediately while inspectors were on site, and plans are already in place to strengthen services further. The inspection report is available on the CQC website. Patients, carers and families who have feedback to share about any of the services at UHL can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on Freephone 0808 178 8337, or email: uhl-tr.pals@nhs.net. UHL News - 3 September 2026