An investigation is continuing today after a man was stabbed in Market Harborough last night (Sunday 5 July). Police and the East Midlands Ambulance Service were called to Shropshire Close just before 11.30pm after it was reported a man in his 20s had been found with a stab wound injury. He was taken to hospital, where remains in a critical condition. Shortly before 3.30am today (Monday), officers maintaining a scene preservation were approached by another man in his 20s who had suffered significant cuts to his hand and arm. He was also taken to hospital to be treated for injuries that were not life-threatening. Following initial enquiries, a 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He has since been released on bail. Detective Sergeant Sam Blackhurst, from our Complex Investigation Team (CIT), said: “We’re continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to both incidents, which we believe are linked to one another. “I’m appealing for anyone who can help to come forward. This includes anyone who was in the area in the early hours of this morning or who saw or heard anything unusual or suspicious. “I’d also like to speak to anyone who captured anything on a mobile phone, doorbell, CCTV or dashcam. Anything you can tell us could assist our investigation.” You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ and quoting reference 26*395588. Alternatively call 101. UPDATE On Wednesday (8 July), a 51-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. She has since been released on bail. Leicestershire Police News - Updated: 10:25 10/07/2026

An investigation is continuing today after a man was stabbed in Market Harborough last night (Sunday 5 July). Police and the East Midlands Ambulance Service were called to Shropshire Close just before 11.30pm after it was reported a man in his 20s had been found with a stab wound injury. He was taken to hospital, where remains in a critical condition. Shortly before 3.30am today (Monday), officers maintaining a scene preservation were approached by another man in his 20s who had suffered significant cuts to his hand and arm. He was also taken to hospital to be treated for injuries that were not life-threatening. Following initial enquiries, a 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. A scene preservation remains in place between Shropshire Close and Orchard Street and officers remain in the area carrying out further enquiries. Detective Sergeant Sam Blackhurst, from our Complex Investigation Team (CIT), said: “We’re continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to both incidents, which we believe are linked to one another. “I’m appealing for anyone who can help to come forward. This includes anyone who was in the area in the early hours of this morning or who saw or heard anything unusual or suspicious. “I’d also like to speak to anyone who captured anything on a mobile phone, doorbell, CCTV or dashcam. Anything you can tell us could assist our investigation.” You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ and quoting reference 26*395588. Alternatively call 101. POLICE UPDATE 10/07/2026 Arrest following stabbing in Market Harborough "Police updates" Pictures by Leicester Media Online

A man who raped and began sexually abusing a teenage boy in 2015 has been jailed. Mark Watson was sentenced to 12-and-a-half years at Leicester Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 9 July). The 55-year-old’s offending was brought to the attention of police in 2021 when the victim, who is now an adult, told a third-party what had happened between 2015 and 2018. He told officers from our Child Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU) that Watson had raped him on several occasions and forced him to engage in other sexual activity. He said Watson had also physically assaulted him during that time and regularly threatened him with violence. On 2 March, at the same court, Watson was found guilty of two counts of rape and two counts of sexual activity with a child following a trial. Watson, of Linford Street in the Belgrave area of Leicester, was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) until further notice, placed on the sex offender register for life and made subject to a restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim for life. Detective Constable Aisling McPhillips, the investigating officer, said: “I want to praise the victim in the case for his continued support and understanding from the moment the incident was reported in 2021 to the end of the court process. “Without the information and accounts he was able to provide, Watson would not have been convicted and sentenced for what is without doubt, abuse that no person should ever have to go through. “I hope this sentence provides him with a sense of closure and allows him to move on with his life.” 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 https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences Leicestershire Police News - Published: 09:53 10/07/2026

Saturday 1st August 2026 This year's theme will be Crowned by Culture - Caribbean Queens and Kings Tickets and Entry This year, we're going digital! To help make your carnival experience smoother and faster, we’re encouraging everyone to purchase their tickets online through our website. You can also pick them up in person at Stabana Cultural Products, 119 Charles Street, LE1 1FA. Buying in advance means you’ll be able to breeze through our fast-track entry points at the park no long queues, no hassle. We’ve listened to your feedback and are doing everything we can to make sure your day starts with more dancing and less waiting! Adults Early Bird £5.00 Per Ticket + £1.00 fee (see link below) Opening Ceremony at 12pm Opening Ceremony Granville Road. Victoria park, Granville Road, London Road, St. Georges Way, Charles Street, Humberstone Gate, Gallowtree Gate, Granby Street, Northampton Street, Charles Street, London Road, Granville Road back to Victoria Park. Victoria Park 2pm to 8pm Once we arrive at Victoria Park, the real celebration begins! Get ready for a full day of music, culture, food, and fun for everyone. Here's what you can look forward to: Family Zone packed with activities to keep all ages entertained. Main Stage showcasing headliners and an incredible lineup of Leicester’s homegrown talent. Soca Village and DJ Zones where sound systems turn up the heat with non-stop Carnival vibes. Fun Fair, lively Bar, and Food Zone from thrilling rides to Caribbean flavours, there’s something for every taste. Come early, stay late, and celebrate Leicester Caribbean Carnival in true Carnival style! Pictures and Video by Leicester Media Online

11th July - 12th July Join us for a special weekend celebrating the Great Central Railway’s journey towards reunification. Explore both halves of the railway as we look ahead to reconnecting Loughborough and Nottingham, creating an incredible 18-mile heritage railway through the heart of the East Midlands. With one inclusive ticket giving access to all sites, train travel, and our special Heritage Rail Replacement Bus Service, there’s plenty to discover across the railway. From behind-the-scenes and guided tours to heritage transport, exhibition and interactive experiences, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re a long-time supporter, a family looking for a great day out, or someone visiting us for the very first time, the Mind the Gap Reunification Weekend promises something for everyone. Share the Love For every adult Runabout ticket purchased, you can add a free ticket for a guest to join you and discover the Railway together. We’ll also have Kids for a Quid tickets available, making it a great family day out. Simply add your adult Runabout Ticket to your basket and then select either a free adult Runabout Ticket or our Kids for a Quid offer. 11th July - 12th July Great Central Railway, Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW Visit Leicester

The multi-award winning Cosby Yarn Bomb is back! 9th July - 29th July Come along and see the beautiful village of Cosby decorated with incredible knitted and crocheted installations, which this year has the theme 'Around the World in 80 Displays'! Cosby Yarn Bomb is an uplifting outdoor trail of 80 textile art installations created by the community for the community with the purpose of improving wellbeing, reducing feelings of isolation & bringing communities together. This FREE event is a culmination of community projects that 'not for profit' organisation Gather Create Grow run all year round. Expect to see everything from life-sized crochet giraffes & Chinese dragons to colourful, interactive imaginary worlds & intricately detailed displays. A joyful & inspiring event for all ages full of creativity, community spirit & incredible skill! The artworks will be on display, outside, across the village of Cosby for everyone to enjoy. Time: The Yarn Bomb displays are can be found all around the village of Cosby and are able to be enjoyed at any time of the day 7 days a week throughout the period of the event. 9th July - 29th July Cosby Village, Leicestershire, LE9 1RN Visit Leicester Events News

The National Space Centre is turning up the glitter this summer with the launch of Cosmic Dancing Queens, a brand-new ABBA‑inspired party night and the latest instalment in its fast-growing after-hours live music series Sat 15th August 2026 Following the sell-out success of Cosmic Country and Cosmic Emo, this much-anticipated next chapter swaps cowboy boots and eyeliner for platform boots, sequins and disco anthems, promising a high-energy night of sing-alongs, dancing and pure feel-good escapism. With previous events selling out in advance, visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out. Set against the extraordinary backdrop of the National Space Centre, this is a night out that combines iconic music with one of the UK’s most unique venues, giving guests the chance to party beneath rockets and space-age surroundings. At the heart of the event is a live ABBA tribute band, bringing the unmistakable sound and spirit of the Swedish pop phenomenon to life. Known for their energy, musicianship and crowd‑pleasing performances, the band delivers a set packed with instantly recognisable hits, creating a soundtrack built for sing-alongs and full dance floors from the very first note. Cosmic Dancing Queens is more than just a gig - it’s a fully hosted, immersive night out. Resident MC Dec will keep the energy high throughout the evening, leading the crowd through games, competitions and interactive challenges, with plenty of surprises along the way. From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be swept into a glitter-soaked atmosphere of disco glamour, playful moments and unapologetic nostalgia. A welcome drink on arrival sets the tone, while optional VIP upgrades add an extra touch of sparkle, including themed accessories and priority entry to kick-start the evening in style. As the live music gives way to an 80s disco, the dancefloor keeps moving late into the night, ensuring the celebration doesn’t slow down. Whether attending as a group of friends, marking a special occasion or simply looking for something different, the event is designed for adults who want to let loose, embrace the theme and enjoy a truly joyful night out. 15th August 2026 Live Band Prizes and Suprises VIP Packages With a proven track record of high-demand themed events and a brand-new concept inspired by one of the most beloved eras of pop music, Cosmic Dancing Queens is set to be another standout night in the National Space Centre’s extra special, 25thanniversary events calendar. For more information, visit https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/cosmic-dancing-queens/ FU Media News Release

As schools shut for summer, free bus travel for all 5-to-15-year-olds in England will be available next month. Roads Minister, Simon Lightwood, visited Bath today (Thursday 9th July) to meet local leaders and bus companies ahead of the cost-of-living-busting free travel measures launching in time for summer holidays. With child fares typically costing between £1 and £2, families will be able to save on the cost of travel on all participating buses in England from 1 August until 31 August. Families are already able to benefit from free travel for under 5s across the main bus operators. This is part of this government's Great British Summer Savings scheme which is helping people enjoy days out for less, whether it's exploring the great outdoors at a national park or discovering new things at one of Britain's world-class museums. During the visit the Minister met with teachers, school children and parents to discuss how the scheme will benefit them. This package isn't just making getting there cheaper, these summer savings are helping with the cost of living squeeze every day. Over the summer costs are being cut on children's menu meals at restaurants, children's tickets for theatres and cinemas, and tickets for everyone at attractions like adventure centres, theme parks and soft play. Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said: "Great British Summer Savings means more people can be excited about getting out and about this summer, whether it's seeing the Roman Baths, learning something new at the Science Museum, or falling asleep on the bus ride home after a day riding rollercoasters at Alton Towers. "I know that the cost of living is a concern for households across the UK, which is why we're cutting the cost of the day-to-day, with free bus travel for children this summer and the £3 bus fare cap helping more families make the most of the small plans that make life enjoyable." This government is aiming to make all public transport more accessible, as not only has the £3 bus fare cap been extended until March 2027, meaning single bus fares for adults are cheaper too, but earlier this year the first rail fare freeze in 30 years was announced, saving passengers £600m. This comes on top of £3 billion investment to make buses better nationally, supporting local leaders and operators to deliver new and more reliable services for millions of passengers. Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England said: “I am so excited that Kids Go Free is back again! We know what a massive impact this has had for families in the West, helping kids explore the best of the West and putting money back in parents’ pockets. "I am thrilled that the government has seen how successful our scheme has been, and that Kids Go Free is going national for August. This will give West Country families the chance to explore even further.” VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “It’s fantastic to see free bus travel for children as the summer holidays get underway, supporting families to get out and explore the outstanding attractions and destinations across England in a stress free and environmentally friendly way. “Whether enjoying a trip to our stunning seaside destinations, beautiful countryside or our vibrant city attractions there is so much to discover during the summer across England. I know our tourism and hospitality businesses will be very pleased to see you.” Department for Transport News 09/07/26 EMBARGOED UNTIL: 10 Jul 2026 00:01

Saturday 31st August 2019 12 noon to 8pm Leicester Pride is Leicester’s annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) festival and is a colourful and vibrant event celebrating diversity and freedom of expression. The event starts with a spectacular parade through the city which culminates at an popular event on Victoria Park that includes live music, market stalls, funfair rides and health and wellbeing information. The event is free to attend and celebrates equality and diversity in the community. Leicester Pride is a family event with entertainment and attractions suitable for all ages. Pride is attended by more than 10,000 + people each year with more than 2,000 taking part in the parade through the city. The Parade Orton Square Leicester. (In front of the curve theatre) We invite everyone to join us on the parade, although we ask that larger groups register via the website so that we can plan the order and layout. Please note that no glass bottles are allowed on the parade and much of the route runs through the cities alcohol free zones so please refrain from drinking alcohol. Please arrive early so that we can start to form the parade outside the curve theatre no later then 11.30am, the Parade will start at 12.00 For a Safer Pride This year we are significantly increasing security on the parade. We now require all groups of people greater than 5 to register or you may not be able to take part on the day. We may also ask to search your belongings at any point in the parade. The festival site Victoria Park 1pm to 8pm The Parade arrives at the park at 1pm Its Free to attend and it is a Family event and everyone is welcomed. For security and safety reasons bag searches will be carried out on entry to the park. Please note that when the Parade arrives there may be a delay during this peak on entry. But please remember this is for safety reasons. and we want everyone to have a happy and safe pride. You can bring your own alcohol provided it’s not in glass bottles. Everyone must be over 18 year old to drink alcohol on the park. Please ensure you bring Photo ID We are hoping that the sun shines on Saturday please remember to apply sunblock cream and ensure you drink plenty of water on the Parade and on festival site throughout the day. Car Parking Part of the Victoria car park will be available for parking for the public on the day (pay and display) Free Pride Bus Catch the FREE Pride Bus from the Rainbow and Dove Charles street. every 15 mins, taking you directly to Leicester Pride, to the Festival site at Victoria Park. Leicester Media has been covering the Leicester Pride events for over 10 years. They are very proud to be our official media partner please help them by waving and being joyful when they are capturing the pride event. You will be able to see the official pictures and videos later on our social media sites coming soon after the event. We respect everyone’s privacy and if you wish not to be photographed or filmed, Please let them know. All the official photographers will be displaying Media ID passes. Don’t forget to Hash tag you pictures of Pride day using #leicesterpride2019 Pride guides are available at Visit Leicester and LGBT venues around the city. Please follow Leicester Pride and Leicester Media on Twitter and Instagram. @leicesterpride @leicestermedia Look out for the event pictures coming soon For more information www.leicesterpride.com

10th Year of Leicester Pride in our city Leicester Pride Event Since 2009 the current Pride team lead by Martyn Parker and Craig Thorpe have organised an annual festival in Leicester, UK aimed at celebrating the great diversity in our city. In particular we promote equality and education whilst eliminating discrimination against the LGBT community. 2018 is the 10th Year of Leicester Pride. This years the Pride Parade through our great diverse city of Leicester, ending up on Victoria Park. with lots of diverse entertainment throughout the day, DJ Tent. Bars, food and community and Market stalls. this is a family event and you are all welcome, and Its a Free.. and being its our 10th Year we would like to make it the biggest and best event yet. Please visit our website www.leicesterpride.com Check out the Pictures and Videos of Leicester Pride www.facebook.com/leicesterpride

UHL is proud to have been included in the Sunday Times’ top 100 UK apprenticeship providers list, for the second year running. The Trust is named in the 2026 list, which celebrates organisations that demonstrate excellence in apprenticeship recruitment, training, diversity and completion outcomes. UHL is ranked tenth out of the health and social care providers included, and 86th overall. Apprenticeships support a wide range of areas across UHL, including business administration, operations management, nursing, healthcare science, pharmacy services and other professional healthcare pathways. The programmes provide opportunities for colleagues at all stages of their careers, from entry-level roles to higher-level professional development. At the time of recognition, 640 colleagues were enrolled onto UK Apprenticeship Levy-funded apprenticeship programmes at the Trust. Head of Learning and Development, Julie McCarthy said: “This achievement reflects the contribution of apprentices, managers, educators and support teams across the organisation, and shows that apprenticeships are a core part of UHL’s workforce development strategy. “By supporting people to learn while they earn, the Trust is able to attract new talent, retain and invest in our experienced colleagues, and develop the skills needed for future healthcare services.” 33 UHL apprentices who have recently completed their programme of study attended the 2026 Leicester Employment Hub graduation ceremony at De Montfort Hall, celebrating their achievements alongside apprentices from other organisations in Leicester and Leicestershire. Among those attending was Stewart Walker, a gardener from the estates and facilities team at the Leicester General Hospital, who has achieved the level three team leader apprenticeship. Stewart said: “I wanted to challenge myself and get ready for the next stage in my professional development. It was a great course for anybody who’s looking to open their wings and go further. “I was a bit wary about going back into education, especially at my age. But I had an excellent supervisor, Lee Hines, who helped me all the way through. And there’s an excellent learning and development team at UHL, who were absolutely fantastic. Even at difficult moments, people were always there to lift me up and help me through. “If you are thinking about an apprenticeship, go for it. I’d recommend it to anybody.” A group of colleagues who completed the level three data technician apprenticeship also attended the ceremony. Research and Innovation Information Analyst, Menaga Vinothkumar; Office Administrator, Rebecca Gardner and Patient Pathway Navigator, Caroline Wilford have all graduated from the one-year programme, which gives colleagues the technical and presentation skills to turn data into actionable insights. Rebecca said: “Things that I do which used to take hours can now be done in minutes. So there’s a lot of additional time to use on analysing the data to add value. But I think the biggest thing I’ve got out of this course is that I feel so much more confident with what I’m doing.” Menaga added: “Thanks to the apprenticeship, we’re looking at data differently and are better able to interpret the story it is telling. We’re much more confident now in how to present the data for business needs. It’s been an amazing journey.” Caroline said: “I’ve done presentations of the data that I’ve gathered to do consultants and senior management teams, and I would never have dreamt of doing that before I started the apprenticeship. It’s a brilliant course.” You can find out more about apprenticeships at UHL on our apprenticeships webpage. University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust News - 9 July 2026

A second man has been arrested in connection with the death of a man in Loughborough. The body of a man was found on the evening on Monday 6 July in a caravan parked in a layby on the A6 Derby Road, Loughborough. East Midlands Ambulance Service attended, and the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. Subsequent enquiries found that the deceased man – who was in his 40s – reported being involved in an altercation in the days leading up to being found. As a result, a murder investigation was launched and a 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has since been released on police bail while enquiries continue. Last night (Wednesday), a second man, aged 42, was arrested on suspicion of murder and is now in police custody. There is a cordon in place at the layby on the A6 northbound while forensic work is being carried out. Detective Inspector Mike Chander from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) is leading the investigation, and said: “We will continue our investigations today to work to understand the sequence of events that lead to this man’s death. “There is significant work going on including forensic enquires, talking to witnesses and any CCTV opportunities. “Anyone with any information, contact us on 101, quoting crime number incident 26*398136.” Read related post Murder investigation launched following discovery of body Leicestershire Police News - Published : 13:29 09/07/2026