Khidmah Organisation brothers Community Funday on Sunday, 12th July at Crown Hills Community College. People enjoyed Madaris Football Tournament's Fun Zone, completely for free, featuring an obstacle course and inflatables. Khidmah has developed into an established charity offering a wide range of services to the local community of Leicester. Interview with Uzair Makadam - Youth Chair Khidmah Organisation was formed in 1999 as a non-profit voluntary organisation with its vision of bringing the community of Leicester together through community events. The vision for the Community fun day has always been to bridge the gaps between Leicester’s diverse communities through our tagline ‘Building Bridges, Connecting Communities’. It is our firm belief that promoting community cohesion is the key to creating a stronger, more inclusive society. The events that are organised achieves this vision and allows all to enjoy a day of recreation, sports activities, entertainment and education. Khidmah Organisation has developed into an established charity offering a wide range of services to the local community of Leicester. In previous years, Khidmah Organisation has organised innumerable fundraising events for national and global causes, recruitment events, youth clubs, homework clubs, refugee support, food bank, residential trips and much more. However, the commUNITY funday remains the pioneer event to this day, attracting at its peak 20,000 attendees. Find out more about this charity. Video by Russell Thorpe LM News

A police cordon is in place on Belvoir Street this morning. Sections of the street have been cordoned off following an overnight incident. A cordon has been set up near Harvey's nightclub, where a first aid kit and other items are visible within the taped-off section. We have reached out to Leicestershire Police for further details on this incident. More to follow. UPDATE 12:00 A man was stabbed in the face in the city centre in the early hours of this morning. Man seriously injured following a stabbing in Belvoir Street, Leicester Pictures by Leicester Media Online

If you happen to walk the City's streets in the early mornings, this is what you'll see. Takeout packaging and uneaten food were scattered across the streets; these pictures were taken in the Market Street area of the city this morning around 6 a.m. Restaurant and takeaway owners should be required to fulfill their social and environmental responsibilities by cleaning the area outside their establishments, rather than depending on the City Council's street cleaning teams. In today’s urban landscapes, the role of restaurant and takeaway owners extends beyond merely serving food; they are integral to the community’s social fabric and environmental health. It is essential that these business proprietors recognise the importance of fulfilling their social and environmental responsibilities, particularly when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness of the areas surrounding their establishments. Pictures taken by Leicester Media Online Sunday 12th July 2026

If there’s one thing we are incredibly proud of it is the way in which the Leicester and Leicestershire LGBTQ+ community celebrate during the summer. From the region’s biggest Pride parade and party in Leicester to the four events around the districts and market towns, it’s a fabulous time to get glammed up and show out! Whatever you’re doing for Pride month, there are plenty of chances to show your support across Leicester and Leicestershire, whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, are supporting friends and family, or just there as an ally. Leicester Pride Saturday 5 September It’s the conclusion of the summer, but we simply have to start with this one! Leicester Pride is the region’s biggest Pride event, with a huge parade filled colour and music snaking its way through the city centre. This all culminates in a fantastic free party in Abbey Park with live music, performances. More than 20,000 people are expected to join the party, and absolutely everyone is welcome. Pride in Coalville 1 August But the celebrations for Pride month kick off right at the start of August, in Coalville. This celebration of identity, visibility and community is held in Coalville Park . It’s a free, family-friendly day with loads of live music and entertainment, local stalls, food and drink, community groups and activities for all ages. Everyone – LGBTQ+ people, allies, families and neighbours – is welcome Ashby Pride 8 August Taking place on Market Street in Ashby de la Zouch, there’s a packed programme with stalls, music and dance of the main stage and a parade too! Ashby Pride is a community-led charity run entirely by volunteers. Their dedicated team works tirelessly to organise and deliver vibrant events celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. Loughborough Pride 22 August This fantastic event will this year feature a parade right through the centre of Loughborough, bringing Pride to the whole town and offering the community a chance to show their support. There will also be a return of the Picnic in the Park event in Queen’s Park with a headline performance from The Gaga Experience. There will also be a chance to see the Community Pride Picnic Blanket as part of Charnwood Museum’s Spotlight case. Leicester Media is proud to be the official media partner for Leicester Pride The Leicester Pride event is on Saturday 5th September 2026 at Abbey Park Leicester 1pm – 9pm – Free entry www.leicesterpride.com 20,000+ Expected at Leicester Pride as Midlands strengthens claim as UK’s Pride capital

The University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden will come alive with music, family entertainment and hands-on activities this September as it welcomes visitors to its annual Community Festival. Taking place on Sunday 6 September, the festival offers a packed programme of events within the Gardens and the historic Beaumont House, bringing together local performers, traders, and food vendors. The festival will also allow visitors the opportunity to discover more about the future of the Botanic Garden. Garden Director and BBC Gardener’s World presenter, Nick Bailey, and members of the Friends of the Botanic Garden will be on hand to talk about its ambitious 10-year masterplan. The festival will feature live performances from The Wigston Brass Band, Leicester-based dhol drumming group Oh My Dhol, and the Contrast Steel Band, alongside music from a DJ throughout the day. Families can enjoy a range of free activities, including face painting, arts and crafts workshops delivered by Attenborough Arts Centre, henna designs and a minibeast stampers hunt led by the Botanic Garden Education Team. Visitors can also take part in outdoor garden games, tackle a nine-hole crazy golf course and enjoy a bouncy castle. Inside Beaumont House, visitors will be able to explore a mini-market featuring local traders and makers, meet the University’s Science Kitchen team and try some locally made ice cream and focaccia. There will also be a farm-themed soft play area featuring a ball pit, slide, rockers and horse hoppers for younger visitors with more activities set to be announced. Professor Tom Robinson, Chair of the Botanic Garden Board, said: “This is a time of year when the summer holidays are over and term time beckons, whether for school or university, so it is excellent to have a family event to look forward to. There is always plenty of activities to entertain and it is an opportunity to see what has happened in the University's Botanic Garden since your last visit and to see the plans for the future. I do hope that you can join the fun and that the sun shines down on us.” The Community Festival is sponsored by Rockstar Promotions and is open to everyone. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available now, with prices starting from £1 and free admission for children under five. For more information and tickets, visit the Community Festival event page. Sharing on behalf of the University of Leicester Published: Friday, 10 July 2026

Multiple Fire crews tackling a house fire on Coral Street in the Belgrave area of the city this afternoon. No persons are reported, the cause is not yet known. Local people should close doors and windows to avoid smoke inhalation. Currently there are eight fire engines, including an aerial ladder platform and support welfare at the scene. Motorists should avoid the area and expect delays. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service shared that they were dealing with the incident off of Leicester's Belgrave Road at 3.46pm. Crews remain at the scene after it was reported that the fire had spread to the roof space in a row of terraces. Multiple properties have been evacuated. There are no reports of casualties. More to follow. Pictures and Video by Leicester Media Online ©️ 2026

A guide to some of the many free and low-cost family activities taking place in Leicester this summer is now available on the council’s website. The city’s museums have come up with a packed programme of special events, with activities taking place at Newarke Houses Museum every Wednesday – and with the Abbey Pumping Station opening its doors on both Mondays and Tuesdays during the school holidays. Leicester’s historic Guildhall will be hosting regular events too – including a Shakespeare-inspired craft day, a chance to learn at Wizard School and a fun day of Cops & Robbers – while there’s still time to see May The Toys Be With You, a journey through five decades of toy design, at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery. Leicester’s libraries have a full programme of free and low-cost activities lined up, while the city’s children and young people’s centres will be encouraging youngsters to ‘get up and go’ this summer. BID Leicester and Leicester Cathedral have teamed up to bring Dino Fest – a treat for dinosaur fans – to Leicester city centre on 25-26 July, while the Haymarket Shopping Centre is running free activities from 12 noon until 4pm on both Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the school holidays. Lots more ideas for free and low-cost summer activities can be found at families.leicester.gov.uk/summer-fun Leicester City Council News - Published on Friday, July 10, 2026

An international drug trafficker responsible for importing 1,000kg of cocaine to the UK and handling more than £7 million in criminal cash has been sentenced to 20 years in prison. Thanks to the work of specialist officers, Stephane Hassiakos was identified as playing a leading role in the importation and widespread distribution of cocaine in the country, particularly across the East Midlands. After analysing a wealth of evidence from an encrypted chat platform including images of large quantities of cocaine and cash, detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) Serious Organised Crime team were able to show Hassiakos was using the platform to communicate with other criminals in order to run his largescale drugs operation. When released from prison, Hassiakos will also be subject to a five-year travel restriction order – which prohibits him leaving the country. In 2024, officers launched an investigation into Hassiakos’s offending after identifying him as the man behind one of the usernames operating on EncroChat. The platform – used largely by organised crime groups – was infiltrated and dismantled as part of a huge international law enforcement operation in 2020. Since then, UK police forces have been examining previously hidden criminal communications to identify offenders and bring them to justice. The username being used by Hassiakos was originally identified during a separate investigation into largescale cocaine supply in which a total of 47 defendants were prosecuted between 2020 and 2024. During this time, police established that a significant proportion of class A drugs being supplied to those criminals was being sourced from the same offshore EncroChat user. For many years his identity remained unknown but thanks to extensive intelligence gathering and years of investigation, Hassiakos’ was arrested in Spain in July 2025. He was extradited to the UK in January this year and arrested by officers when he arrived at Heathrow Airport. The investigation showed Hassiakos had been operating his drug empire from Greece, directing associates in the UK and coordinating the importation of large quantities of cocaine. Evidence showed he was responsible for the trafficking of 1,000kg of cocaine and the movement of £7.3 million in criminal cash over an eight-month period between October 2019 and June 2020. Images of recovered drugs Of note, through messages sent on EncroChat, officers were able to directly link him to a shipment of 9kg of cocaine seized in Leicestershire in May 2020. Also, during conversations on the EncroChat platform Hassiakos, in April 2020, boasted to another user that he was tired from working seven days a week during a covid lockdown. He also claimed to have 12 cars and two trucks working for him and had developed a good system with cocaine suppliers in the Netherlands. From this, officers were able to evidence Hassiakos had orchestrated the importation of cocaine from South America and then through the Netherlands and into the UK using HGVs. Arrest of international drug trafficker Stephane Hassiakos From this, officers were able to evidence Hassiakos had orchestrated the importation of cocaine from South America and then through the Netherlands and into the UK using HGVs. Detective Sergeant Chris Sewell, from EMSOU’s Serious Organised Crime Team, said: “Identifying Hassiakos, extraditing and prosecuting him is hugely significant. He was involved in importing vast quantities of cocaine to the UK and was operating at the highest level of organised crime. “It was clear from the evidence gathered during a separate investigation that a significant proportion of the class A drugs being supplied to those criminals was being sourced from someone outside of the country – but at that point we didn’t know who this person was. “Images and conversations recovered from his EncroChat data was able to show the true extent of the operation and over an eight-month period we were able to evidence the importation of 1,000kg of cocaine and the movement of millions of pounds.” He added: “Hassiakos was only extradited back to the UK in January of this year and when presented with the overwhelming amount of evidence we had collated he pleaded guilty to the offences. I am pleased that the huge amount of work that has gone into this investigation has ended with him now spending many years behind bars.” Following the sentencing police will now begin proceedings to recuperate the money made by Hassiakos during his offending. Leicestershire Police News - Published : 17:00 10/07/2026

A senior detective has praised the courage shown by a rape victim after a man was jailed today (Friday 10 July). Having been convicted of attempted murder, rape, sexual assault and robbery following a trial in April, Macaulay Worden was sentenced to 34 years’ imprisonment when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court. He attacked his victim on the canal towpath near Belton Road in Loughborough in the early hours of 30 August last year, pushing them to the ground and repeatedly punching them. Twenty-eight-year-old Worden then raped and sexually assaulted the victim while attempting to strangle them. Following the incident, he made off from the scene with their phone and wallet. On 3 September Worden, of no fixed abode, was found sleeping rough in a tent around a mile from where the incident occurred. Today Worden was also placed on the sex offender register indefinitely and also made subject to an indefinite restraining order, prohibiting contact with the victim. Detective Inspector Majid Zaveri, from Signal – our specialist rape and serious sexual assault team – was the senior investigating officer. He said: “I hope the sentence passed today has provided the victim with a degree of closure which will allow them to move on with their life. “The strength and courage they’ve shown throughout the investigation – and particularly during the court process – is testament to their character and determination to ensure that Worden was brought to justice for what was undoubtedly a violent and incomprehensible attack.” Detective Constable Chris Fox, the officer in the case, added: “We will always take a zero-tolerance approach to anyone committing sexual offences. “Today’s sentence shows that the courts also take a similar approach and will ensure that those responsible are locked up for a significant amount of time, meaning that they cannot cause harm to our communities. “I hope this outcome provides reassurance to the public and encourages anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward and seek justice.” Our previous release regarding this case can be found here. There are several different agencies who can offer independent help and support to victims of sexual offences in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Further information on these services and details on who to contact if you have been a victim of a sexual offence can be found by visiting Leicestershire Police News - Published: 15:33 10/07/2026

It’s the third heatwave of the summer with no rain expected and we’re seeing people use much more water for longer periods than usual, and whilst we don’t have any restrictions in place, we’d really welcome everyone’s support to be mindful of water use. In one day alone this week, an extra 203 million litres of water was used, and on average, people are using an extra 44 litres of water each day. Water is being used for longer and the usual ‘evening peak’ that finishes at 9pm is now stretching through until 1am each day, so high usage is over longer periods of time. We understand people want to care for their gardens, but grass will bounce back once the rain returns. In north Staffordshire, the first water resources trigger has been reached because of the dry weather, this means customers here are being asked to be more mindful. There are no restrictions in place in the Severn Trent region and we want to reassure everyone that we’re working round the clock, producing hundreds of millions of extra water each day, and because of the heatwave and the extra water that’s being used, we’d really appreciate your support to keep water flowing this summer. Severn Trent hot weather update Friday 10th July 2026

Leicestershire Police are urging football fans to plan their journey home ahead of England's World Cup match on Saturday after 120 people have been arrested so far as part of the summer drink and drug drive campaign. Officers say the figures show too many motorists are still getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, with arrests continuing across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland throughout the tournament. Since the campaign began, 89 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink driving, 21 on suspicion of drug driving and ten for failing to provide a sample. Fifty arrests have been made in Leicester, with a further 18 in Charnwood, 14 in North West Leicestershire and 11 in Blaby. More than a quarter of all arrests followed road traffic collisions, including one driver who was nearly four times the legal alcohol limit! Police are also reminding supporters that they can still be over the limit the morning after drinking. Fourteen motorists were arrested between 5am and midday during the campaign. Those arrested range from younger drivers to pensioners. Nearly one in five were aged 24 or under, while the oldest person arrested was 82. Sixteen women have also been arrested during the operation. Chief Inspector Jodie White, from Leicestershire Police's Specialist Support Department, said: "With England playing this weekend, many people will be meeting friends and family to watch the match and hopefully celebrate. "Our message is simple – enjoy the football, but don't risk getting behind the wheel if you have been drinking alcohol or taking drugs. "Whether you're watching the game at home, in a pub or at a social event, plan ahead. Arrange a designated driver, book a taxi, use public transport or stay overnight if necessary. "These arrests show that drink and drug driving remains a significant problem, and our officers will continue to be out on patrol targeting those who put lives at risk on our roads." The summer drink and drug drive campaign runs until Sunday 19 July, with roads policing officers continuing enforcement activity across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

Nov 18th to Dec 31st 2026 Abbey Park is all set to host Leicestershire’s newest festive attraction as the stunning & immersive celestial light trail Northern Lights will illuminate Leicester city centre this Winter. Following sellout success in Newcastle, Manchester and Leeds; Northern Lights lands in Leicester for the very first time and is expected to attract over 70,000 visitors to Abbey Park. Set in the grounds of the medieval St. Mary’s Abbey and the landmark ruins of Cavendish House, Northern Lights Leicester will lead visitors on a jaw-dropping magical journey through a celestial spectrum of illuminations & unique musical compositions. Running for the duration of the festive period, from November 18th to December 31st, the breathtaking experience will allow visitors to appreciate the already beloved surroundings of the park in a magical new light. Visitors can expect a showcase of exclusive art installations, special effects and interactive elements from a high calibre of local, national and global talent with plenty of festive photo moments along the route. Approximately one mile in length, the light trail will host up to 14 distinct illuminated zones along the way with a curated selection of vintage fairground rides & a wide variety of classic festive treats, including mulled wine, hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows on hand to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. In addition to the trail, guests will be able to explore the magical Christmas Village, which will feature an extensive range of delicious food and drink offerings celebrating the very best of Leicestershire’s artisan street food vendors and bars. To celebrate the launch of Northern Lights Leicester, the festive trail is running a limited Kids Go Free offer with two free children’s tickets redeemable per booking with any Off Peak Early Bird Adult ticket. The Northern Lights team are also proud to be hosting two neuro-inclusive evenings for the event, offering more space for the audience with a 75% reduced capacity and reduced audio volume throughout. Held in Leicester’s Abbey Park, the trail will be entirely paved making it accessible as possible for everyone. Northern Lights Leicester is the latest event and fifth festive light trail by award-winning event producers From The Fields, the team behind the acclaimed light trails at Cardiff’s Christmas at Bute Park, Northern Lights Newcastle at Leazes Park, Northern Lights Manchester in Heaton Park and Northern Lights Leeds at Temple Newsam plus the multi-award-winning ‘Glastonbury of the North’ Kendal Calling, now looking forward to its 21st sold-out year. Approached with more requests than ever to bring this award-winning Christmas light trail to locations across the country, From The Fields are delighted to make Leicester the newest home for Northern Lights, inviting everyone to step into a world of wonder, to explore glowing woodlands and experience an immersive adventure unlike anything the city centre has ever seen. Tickets for Northern Lights Leicester will go on sale Wednesday July 1st. Prices start from £12.00 for children & £17.00 for adults. News on Early Bird deals, Kids Go Free tickets and further information can be found here: Northern Lights will be sharing more information on illuminations, Christmas Village, local charity partners and much more over the coming months. Ben Robinson - Director, From The Fields said: “It’s a real privilege to be delivering a brand new trail in such an incredible location, surrounded by history and heritage in the heart of Leicester. We’ve got grand plans for Abbey Park and we can’t wait to welcome everyone of all ages and backgrounds together to explore our most immersive light trail experience yet. We’re really proud of the Northern Lights Leicester team who’ve been working hard to make this a truly unforgettable experience for all, making it as inclusive and accessible as possible.” - Praise for Northern Lights: “If the cold night air doesn’t take your breath away, these lights will” BBC Look North “The perfect family day out” Yorkshire Evening Post “Manchester’s coolest new light trail.” The Manc “I followed the Rainbow Road at Temple Newsam - and found gold” Yorkshire Post “A mile-long wonderland of dreamy lights and displays that leave you awe struck” The Sun - Follow Northern Lights Leicester https://www.instagram.com/northernlightsleicester/ https://www.facebook.com/northernlightsleicester https://twitter.com/LightsLeicester