Countywide operation helping to tackle ongoing issue Operation Hind, Leicestershire County Council Trading Standards’ initiative to crack down on the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes, has secured two more successful prosecutions. Arya Mohammad Pour (24) of 54A Page Hall Road, Sheffield, appeared before Leicester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 19 August, where it was heard that he had sold 22 packets of counterfeit Richmond cigarettes to undercover Trading Standard officers on three occasions between 23 October and 4 November 2025 from Gold Town, a shop on Swan Street in Loughborough. Pour was sentenced to a 10-week electronic community curfew monitoring order, requiring him to remain at home between the hours of 8pm and 6am. He was also ordered to pay £900 in prosecution costs and a victim surcharge of £114. Also in Loughborough, Abdullah Hassan Mamand (50) of 8 Arthur Court, Derby, was prosecuted after Trading Standards officers carried out four covert test purchases at Loughborough International, 50 The Rushes, in January 2026. On each occasion, officers were able to purchase illegal cigarettes, including counterfeit products being sold for £4 per pack. The products were counterfeit and failed to comply with UK tobacco packaging and labelling laws. Prior to enforcement action, Trading Standards had provided written and face-to-face advice to the business and its director to ensure legal requirements were understood. That advice was ignored. Appearing in Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Friday 21 August, Mr Mamand was given a 12 month community order, with 100 hours of unpaid work, and a victim surcharge of £114. He was also disqualified from being a company director for two years. The company, The Rushes Store Limited, was fined £5,000 for selling illegal cigarettes, and ordered to pay £5000 costs. Trading Standards secured the prosecutions and sentences following continued determination in both cases.In the case of Mr Pour, Trading Standards officers pursued the case after he became uncontactable and, with support from police colleagues, tracked him down to a tobacco and vape shop in Sheffield where he was working. Investigations by Trading Standards for Mr Mamand highlighted the use of a non-existent address, with the company failing to comply with the companies act. This work, along with the proactive advice given by Trading Standards, helped with the disqualification of being a company director. “Counterfeit tobacco products are a serious concern because consumers have no way of knowing what substances they contain or the potential harm they may cause. The trade in illegal tobacco also undermines legitimate businesses and fuels criminal activity. Gary Connors, head of regulatory services said: “These cases demonstrate our commitment to pursuing those responsible for selling counterfeit goods, even where individuals attempt to avoid investigation. “Both prosecutions highlight the success of Operation Hind, our ongoing partnership initiative to tackle the sale of illegal tobacco, counterfeit cigarettes and illicit vaping products across Leicestershire. The continued success of the operation shows that we are prepared to go the extra mile to disrupt this trade, protect consumers and support legitimate businesses. "We will continue to take robust enforcement action against those involved in the sale of counterfeit cigarettes, illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products, and we encourage anyone with information about this type of activity to report it." Operation Hind is a county wide enforcement initiative led by Leicestershire County Council Trading Standards, working in partnership with Leicestershire Police. It was launched to tackle the growing problem of counterfeit tobacco and non compliant vaping products being sold in local shops, many of which pose serious health risks, with previous tests identifying dangerous substances such as arsenic, lead and formaldehyde in illegal vapes. The initiative focuses on prevention through advice and warnings, intelligence led inspections, test purchasing, joint enforcement visits and prosecution of both business owners and shop workers involved in the illegal trade. It aims to disrupt the supply chain, protect consumers, and support legitimate retailers, and has already secured multiple successful prosecutions. Anyone with information about the sale of counterfeit or unsafe goods is encouraged to report it to Trading Standards. Leicestershire County Council News - Tuesday, 25 August, 2026

An investigation after a man was found seriously injured in Narborough Road, Leicester, this morning (Tuesday) has determined that there is not believed to be any suspicious circumstances or third party involvement. At this stage, it is believed the man has suffered a fall leading to his injuries. The man, who is in his 60s, remains in hospital with serious injuries. His family have been informed and remain with him. Full enquiries have been ongoing today after police were called to the Narborough Road area at 2.06am by the East Midlands Ambulance Service who were in attendance at the scene. Investigation work has included analysing CCTV footage from the area. An area of Narborough Road was closed off to allow these initial enquiries to be carried out. This road closure has now been lifted. Central Leicester Policing Area Commander, Inspector Ryan Ludlam, said: “We would like to thank local residents and businesses who have assisted us in our enquiries today. “While we have determined that there is not believed to be any suspicious circumstances or third party involvement, our investigation does remain ongoing as we continue to establish the full circumstances of what has happened. “The man’s family have been informed and support continues to be provided. “If you do have any information, which you think could help our ongoing enquiries, please do still make contact with us. You can report online at www.leics.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting incident 39 of 25 August 2026. Leicestershire Police - Published: 14:31 25/08/2026

Narborough Road is closed this morning due to a serious police incident. The road is closed between the junctions of Braunstone Gate and Westcotes Road. Two police cordons are in place, and more officers are arriving at the scene. We have contacted Leicestershire Police for more information on this ongoing investigation. More to follow. Pictures by Leicester Media Online SEE UPDATE POST BELOW Man found with serious injuries on Narborough Road SEE UPDATE BELOW 15:00 Narborough Road investigation - Police update

An investigation is ongoing after a man was found seriously injured in Narborough Road, Leicester, during the early hours of this morning (Tuesday 25th August). Police were called to the area at 2.06am by the East Midlands Ambulance Service who were in attendance at the scene. The man has been taken to hospital where he remains with serious injuries. An investigation is in its very early stages to establish what has happened and how the man has come to be injured. It is not believed that the man has suffered stab wound injuries. An area of Narborough Road is closed off while initial enquiries are carried out. Central Leicester Policing Area Commander, Inspector Ryan Ludlam, said: “It is important to stress that the investigation is at a very early stage and we continue to establish the full circumstances of this incident. We would ask that people do not speculate as we continue to carry out enquiries and establish what has happened. “We are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward to us – if you were in the area during the early hours of this morning, please do speak to us about any information you may have. Similarly, if you have any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area, please make contact. “We understand the concern this incident may cause and an increased police presence will remain in the area as enquiries continue. Please do speak with officers regarding any concerns you may have. “We understand the road closure in place today may also cause disruption and would like to thank members of the public for your patience and co-operation as we continue our investigation. “We will provide further updates and information as we are able to.” Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leicestershire Police quoting incident 39 of 25 August 2026. You can report online at www.leics.police.uk or by calling 101. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 10:00 25/08/2026 SEE UPDATE BELOW 15:00 Narborough Road investigation - Police update

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has today (25 August 2026) named David Sandall as his preferred candidate for the new Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police. The announcement follows a robust and competitive selection process carried out in line with the College of Policing’s recruitment requirements. This included assessments by both internal and external stakeholder groups and an in-depth presentation and formal interview. An interview panel consisting of Mr Matthews, local business leader Martin Traynor OBE, Callum Faint Leicestershire’s Chief Fire Officer and Pam Kelly, Senior Policing Advisor, ensured full transparency and impartiality of the decision-making process. The appointment will now be subject to a confirmation hearing by the Police and Crime Panel. David Sandall, who joined Leicestershire Police as a police constable in 1999, stepped up from Deputy Chief Constable to Temporary Chief Constable on Rob Nixon’s retirement in 2025. Throughout his career, he has held a range of operational and investigative leadership roles across local policing, safeguarding, serious and organised crime, intelligence and criminal justice. He also continues to catch criminals. Earlier this year he gave chase and detained a teenager who had pulled a knife on a player in a local football match. Mr Matthews said: “I am pleased to announce David Sandall as my preferred candidate for Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police. “David’s extensive policing and leadership experience speaks for itself, but what particularly impressed the panel was his deep understanding of Leicestershire’s unique communities, demographics and challenges. This insight has been developed through an exceptional 27-year career serving with the force. “He brings a thorough knowledge of our city and counties, alongside a strong track record of delivering meaningful and lasting progress. The panel is confident that, under his leadership, Leicestershire Police will continue to build on its achievements and strive for excellence. “Above all, David demonstrated a genuine passion for and commitment to working collaboratively with residents, community leaders and partner organisations to support the safety, health and prosperity of our communities. “I have every confidence that he possesses the vision, integrity and leadership qualities needed to further strengthen Leicestershire Police’s reputation as an outstanding and innovative force, while ensuring people not only are safe, but feel safe too.” T/Chief Constable David Sandall T/Chief Constable David Sandall said: “I am extremely honoured to be named as the preferred candidate for Chief Constable of my home force Leicestershire Police. “Serving the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remains the of the utmost importance to me – preventing and detecting crime, supporting victims and carrying out investigations to the highest standard while continuing strong engagement with local residents, businesses and partners and delivering the priorities which have been set out in the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan. “Leading this outstanding force as Temporary Chief Constable for the past 16 months, I have seen our officers, staff and volunteers demonstrating exceptional commitment, care and professionalism every single day. Leading them is a responsibility I am extremely proud to take on and an absolute privilege which I do not underestimate. “I am grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner and those involved in the interview process for their support and endorsement of this position.” Please note: Interviews will not take place until after the appointment has been confirmed by the Police and Crime Panel and all background checks completed. PCC News - 25th AUGUST 2026

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. Green Steel and Cladding Ltd and Gaines are due to appear at Leicester Magistrates Court tomorrow (26 August). Leicestershire Police News - Published: 12:20 25/08/2026

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are working together with other partners to investigate an outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis believed to be associated with imported eggs. The FSA have confirmed Eggs produced in the UK with the British Lion Mark or under the Laid in Britain scheme are safe to eat. Eggs which are thoroughly cooked and handled hygienically should not present a food safety risk. To find out more on this click the button below. This is the official blog of the Food Standards Agency (FSA). FSA News - August 2026

Leicestershire County Council is set to trial the JCB Pothole Pro as part of its drive to improve roads, deliver better value for money and explore innovation from British businesses. The council visited JCB this week to see the machine in action and meet the team behind the technology, including apprentices helping to develop and deliver the company’s engineering work. The free trial will give the county council the opportunity to assess how the equipment could work on Leicestershire’s road network before any decisions are made about longer-term use or procurement. Leicestershire has fixed around 10,000 potholes over the past year, and that number is continuing to grow after a £2.5m investment into highways maintenance and speeds up inspections and repairs caused by the wettest winter on record. The authority is also looking at how new techniques, equipment and materials can support its existing highways teams, helping to keep roads safe, moving and maintained as efficiently as possible. Council leader Councillor Dan Harrison said: “We were delighted to spend time at JCB and meet some of the apprentice team, who showed the grit, hard work and ambition that sits behind British engineering. “This is about doing business with British business, supporting local industry and being part of something that keeps jobs, skills and innovation in this country." Cabinet member for highways, Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray said: “We’re creating a better Leicestershire and that means better roads and better value for money. Testing the latest innovation is part of that, and we’re looking forward to trialling a Pothole Pro in Leicestershire with the experts at JCB. “But this is a trial, not a decision to buy. We need to see how it performs on our roads, how it supports our teams and whether it offers the right value for Leicestershire residents.” The trial will take place over a couple of days this autumn. Leicestershire County Council News - Friday, 21 August, 2026

Leicester City Council is set to approve new term dates and holidays for schools across the city from 2027 to 2032. The new arrangements have been put forward following a public consultation, with responses received from schools, parents, carers and other stakeholders. Feedback received during the consultation helped to shape the final model, with the opinions of parents and others who responded playing a major part in making the final decision. The agreed model will continue to ensure that the academic year ends in the second week of July, providing consistency for schools and families. It will also retain a one-week autumn half-term break. Councillor Elaine Pantling, assistant city mayor for children and young people, said: “Setting school term dates is an important decision that affects thousands of families, pupils and school staff across Leicester. We are grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation and shared their views. “The term date model we have gone for reflects the feedback we received and provides a clear and consistent framework for schools and families over the next five years. Importantly, it retains the traditional end of the academic year in the second week of July, which was a key consideration during the decision-making process." The official decision is due to be taken by Cllr Pantling on Wednesday 2 September. Full details of the term dates will be published on the council’s website once the decision is formally made. LCC News - 24 August 2024

Police are appealing for information following a serious collision involving a male pedestrian and a bus which happened in the area of Melton Road, Queniborough, this afternoon (Monday 24 August). Officers were called at 3.37pm to the area, near the junction with Marsden Avenue. East Midlands Ambulance Service were also in attendance. The male pedestrian, who is in his 80s, has been taken to hospital where he currently remains with serious injuries. The man’s next of kin have been informed and support is being provided to them. No other injuries have been reported. Detectives are continuing to establish the full circumstances of the collision and have been carrying out enquiries at the scene including speaking with witnesses and analysing dashcam footage. No arrests have been made. Detective Sergeant Jack Cornick, from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “We are carrying out full enquiries to establish exactly what has happened. We have been speaking to a number of people at the scene but if you do have any information and have not yet spoken to us, I would urge you to make contact with us. “Please think back – did you witness the incident? Did you see the male pedestrian or the bus prior to the incident? Or do you have any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area this afternoon? “If you have any information that could help us, then please get in touch. You can report online at www.leics.police.uk or call 101 quoting incident 422 of 24 August." Pictures by Leicester Media Online Leicestershire Police - Published : 20:01 24/08/2026

Melton Road Queniborough is currently closed in both directions due to a Road traffic collision. The road is closed between roundabout and the BP service station. Collision investigation unit is currently at the scene. We have no further details at this time. Please find alternative routes and updates will follow. UPDATE 20:00 See update post below

A fundraiser has been established to assist with the funeral expenses for the "amazing young lad" who passed away after being punched in Leicester. George Glover passed away after the reported attack that took place on Narborough Road at approximately 6:30 am on Monday (August 17). My name is Ciara and I’m setting up this fundraiser with a broken heart, to ask for help for my best friend and his family following the devastating loss of his son, George Glover, at just 27 years. George was taken from them in such horrible circumstances. George was a loving, loyal and hardworking young man. His family meant everything to him, and he was happiest spending time with the people he loved. His passion was making and fixing bikes, something he loved doing in his spare time. His family are completely heartbroken, and at such a devastating time they are also facing the cost of arranging his funeral. Please, if you can donate, no matter how small, it would mean so much and help give George the farewell he deserves. If you can’t donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much. George was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.