Following today’s sentencing, the family of James McKeown have released the below tribute: “Jim was a kind, generous, gentle man who had worked all his life and was finally enjoying his well-earned retirement. He lived by the belief that tomorrow is never guaranteed, so you must live for today, and the actions of Mr Moore brought that into reality. “On Monday 6 April 2026, Jim was walking home after a bank holiday spent doing what he loved; playing golf, and sharing a couple of drinks with friends at a pub. At 5.20 pm, he called his partner Lesley, saying, "I'm just going to have one more, then I'll be home," but Jim never arrived. “The trauma and devastation that happened to Jim will stay with us for the rest of our lives. We still cannot understand why Mr Moore chose to act as he did. From the direction Jim was walking, we know he was trying to reach the main road, a clear sign he was uncomfortable with what was happening. To get home, he would have continued straight down the path, not turn where the killing took place. Jim did not like confrontation. He was not an aggressive man. He was trying to get home. James 'Jim' McKeown “The hardest part for us as a family is knowing that this tragedy was entirely avoidable. Jim wasn’t looking for trouble; he wasn’t provoking anyone; he was trying to get home. Mr Moore's decision to attack him set off a chain of events that none of us can undo. It took away Jim’s chance to live for today, and it took away our chance to have him here with us, where he should still be. “Mr Moore did take some responsibility for handing himself in and pleading guilty, but throughout the court hearings he showed no genuine remorse. He did not once apologise for the crime he committed. Instead, he pulled faces when he disagreed with what was said, and he made phone gestures towards friends and family in the public gallery. The sentence given to Mr Moore will never be enough to bring Jim back or undo the pain caused. “We want to express our deepest thanks to the two individuals who supported and resuscitated Jim at the scene, ensuring he was not alone and frightened in his final moments of life. Your efforts weren’t in vain; there were signs of life, but the damage to his brain was catastrophic, and he sadly passed away. “We also extend our sincere gratitude to Leicestershire Police for their support and dedication throughout the investigation. “Jim was a loving father, devoted partner to Lesley, grandfather, brother, friend, and a man who brought warmth and positivity wherever he went. Our lives are forever changed.” READ RELATED POST CLICK HERE Leicestershire Police News - Published: 15:56 31/07/2026

A chance encounter in a park which led to a defenceless man being punched has resulted in the perpetrator being jailed for manslaughter. In April this year James McKeown, also known as Jim, was found lying on the ground in Beaumont Park, Beaumont Leys by a member of the public. He had suffered from a head injury and sadly passed away a short time later. Initial enquiries at the scene revealed that Jim had been walking home from a nearby pub when he was assaulted by Joshua Moore who was riding a quad bike in the park with a young child. Moore confronted 62-year-old Jim and punched him in the face which resulted in him falling to the ground, hitting his head on the pavement. Moore placed Jim in the recovery position then left the park making no attempt to contact the emergency services. More than an hour later, 33-year-old Moore of Fowler Close, Beaumont Leys, approached an officer on the cordon and admitted assaulting Jim. After initially being arrested for attempted murder, he was further arrested on suspicion of murder after Jim passed away. After an examination of Moore’s mobile telephone, it was clear he thought it was more important to sort out his affairs before contacting the police or the ambulance service; going as far as cancelling a tattoo appointment he had the next day. At a hearing today (Friday 31 July) Moore was sentenced to five years and nine months in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter earlier this month. CCTV and body-worn video footage show the events leading up to the assault that resulted in the death of James McKeown, and the subsequent arrest of Joshua Moore. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames from East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) Murder Investigation Team, said: “Sadly, this is a tragic death that could have been avoided. Moore had a choice that day and should have walked away, without using any violence, Jim posed no threat to him. “His actions have now left a family devastated at the loss of their loved one. The fact that he didn’t make any attempt to contact the emergency services following the incident shows exactly what type of man he is. He placed Jim in the recovery position and clearly saw the injuries he had caused but that didn’t stop him from riding away, returning home to organise his affairs before handing himself in. Notwithstanding this was a totally unprovoked attack, Joshua Moore should not have been riding a quad bike in the park in the first place. “While we are pleased that Moore has admitted to being responsible for Jim’s death, there are certainly no winners in the case. “Jim’s family now face a life without him, and nothing can replace the feeling of that loss. They have shown immense bravery throughout the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings. This has in no way been easy for them. “Moore now faces a lengthy term in prison, and I hope it gives him the opportunity to reflect on his actions. “I would also like to thank the community of West Leicester for their support in the investigation and thank the members of the community who unlike Joshua Moore, stopped to provide care to Jim.” In November 2023 the force launched the Walk Away campaign which is aimed at empowering men to look out for the early behaviours in themselves and their friends, which might lead to altercations. We want to encourage peer groups to support each other in making different choices and encourage individuals to recognise those personal trigger points. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 15:49 31/07/2026

Police investigating an assault have released CCTV images of two people they wish to identify. Police would like to identify these two men At around 2.15pm on Sunday 31 May, a fight took place involving a group of men outside an address in Clarendon Park Road, Leicester. During the incident, one man sustained a broken nose. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has been released on police bail pending further enquiries. As part of our enquiries, we would like to identify these two men. We would ask anyone who may know who these men are or the men themselves to please make contact. If you have any information, please contact police on 101 quoting 26000314922 or visit us online at www.leics.police.uk Leicestershire Police News - Published: 11:23 31/07/2026

A motorcyclist has been left seriously injured following a collision on the M1 motorway. Police were called at 4.19pm yesterday (Thursday 30 July) following a report of a collision on the southbound carriageway between junctions 23 and 22. It involved a white Enterprise Ford Transit van and a white BMW F800 motorbike. The rider has been taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition. The driver and passengers in the van were not injured. A 39-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being unfit to drive through drink and causing serious injury through careless or inconsiderate driving and has been released under investigation. Officers from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit are investigating. They would like to appeal to anyone who saw the collision, the vehicles beforehand or the circumstances leading up to it to please get in touch. Anyone who may also have dashcam footage which captured anything relating to the collision is also asked to make contact. You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ and quoting reference 26000453357. Alternatively call 101. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 10:46 31/07/2026

Summer of Funk Leicester's Music Festival Last year, we were the first-ever event to use Vicky Park's bandstand for live music, and that legacy will live on. Our main stage this year is even bigger to accommodate the ever-growing (but legislatively limited) capacity of 4,000 people. We fit the festival feel in Victoria Park too, so even though our locally-loved vendors make the site look pretty, you can pull up a picnic blanket where you like and relax. We all know about the 14 live acts across a wide variety of genres... right? Well, the first act, a professional jazz-funk ensemble, will already be groovin' when you arrive at 11:00. From there, you'll be taken on a journey through genres such as reggae, indie, R&B, and a lot more jazz and funk. No cover bands either, get ready for a whole day of some of the best original music from all over the UK. Ticket price While last year's super-low prices have left a mark on my credit history for all time, I can assure you that this year's are only a step closer to reasonable. With £3 kids' tickets and £3 pints, we physically could not go any lower and still put the event on (trust me). Any profit will go straight to St John Ambulance, and even they know our prices are dangerously low, which is why we give you the option to donate on our website. In all honesty, our prices are so low that, if we don't sell enough tickets, we won't be able to put on SOF '27, so if you're thinking of coming but haven't bought your ticket yet, please get them now! Event: Summer of Funk '26 Location: Victoria Park, Leicester, LE17RY Date: 22nd August 2026 Doors: 11:00 - 22:00 Capacity: 4000 Attractions: Local Art Exhibitions, Food Vendors, Funk For more information and tickets click the button below.

A new aviary is being created for our feathered friends in Loughborough’s Queen’s Park. Photo shows the existing aviary in Queen's Park, which is to be replaced by a new one It will replace the existing structure and a temporary aviary is now being built for the birds while their new home is constructed. Councillor Anne Gray, the Council’s lead member for open spaces, said: "Queen’s Park is one of Charnwood’s most treasured green spaces and this project demonstrates our commitment to maintaining and improving its facilities. "The wellbeing of the birds is our top priority and this new aviary will provide a safe, modern environment for them to thrive in. "We know how much local people and visitors enjoy seeing the birds in Queen’s Park, so we are pleased that they will remain on display in a temporary aviary while work takes place. "The finished aviary will be a fantastic addition to the park." The new aviary is expected to be completed in the autumn. While work is ongoing, visitors will still be able to see the birds – including a selection of parakeets, cockatiels, budgerigars, canaries and finches – in their temporary home, next to the existing aviary. Access to Charnwood Museum and Olivia’s Cafe, will not be affected during the work. Charnwood Borough Council -Published: Tue 28th July, 2026

A Free family funday in New Parks next week will showcase the support, activities and services that are available for people in Leicester. The event, on Tuesday 4th August, will include free face painting, a family quiz, giant outdoor games and a storytelling visit from the Leicester Libraries Bookbus. It takes place at New Parks Library from 10am-1pm. Regular monthly drop-ins are being held in Leicester neighbourhoods to give people the chance to chat with organisations and services from the council, health, and voluntary and community sectors. The drop-in sessions are part of the Leading Better Lives programme, where organisations work together to make it easier for people to access care and support when they need it. At the New Parks event, a community pharmacy will be giving blood pressure checks, and the NHS will be offering vaccinations. Other agencies at the event will include Age UK, Citizens’ Advice, adult education, Active Leicester and the Live Well service, for advice on stopping smoking, healthy eating and living a healthier lifestyle. Care navigators will be on hand to offer advice on equipment and minor adaptions to help people live safely at home, and housing officers will be available to help local residents. There will also be information on mental health cafes and other mental health support available locally. Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for health, said: “Strong communities are built when people can easily access the information, advice and support they need. These community drop-ins bring a wide range of services together in one welcoming place, making it easier for residents to find help, discover local opportunities and connect with organisations that can support them.” Cllr Mohammed Dawood, assistant city mayor for adult social care, said: “It’s really important that we provide the right range of services, at the right time, so that people can live the lives they want to lead. Sometimes, people don’t know what’s available in Leicester, or where to access services. That’s why we’re bringing them all together at neighbourhood events like this one.” As well as the regular monthly drop-in sessions at New Parks Library, other sessions take place at Hamilton Library, Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, Wesley Hall, Stocking Farm Community Shop and the Bradbury Centre. More information about the Leading Better Lives programme can be found at leicester.gov.uk/leadingbetterlives LCC News - Published on Thursday, July 30, 2026

A man has been charged with Possession of an imitation firearm after a incident on Monday 27th July in Kamloops Crescent. A spokesperson from Leicestershire Police said: “ We can confirm Mohammedin Moosa, 26, of Dover Street, Leicester has been charged with one count of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and one count of sending a communication threatening death or serious harm” He is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court today (Thursday).

New Parks Way is currently closed between the roundabouts of Dominion Road and Scudamore Road due to an Road Traffic collision. Please find alternative routes and updates will follow. More to follow.

A blaze has taken hold of a church in Leicester city centre. A coffin with a body prepared for a funeral service was saved from a significant fire at a church over 160 years old. The Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service reported receiving numerous calls regarding St Andrew's Church on Jarrom Street, Leicester, at 23:17 on Tuesday. At the peak of the fire, eight engines and two high-reach appliances were present at the location. Picture Credit LFRS The fire service remain at the scene this morning, July 29. Our drone footage shows extensive damage to the 150 year-old roof. A spokesperson from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service said: "There is an incident on Jarrom Street in Leicester City, this is sending smoke over the city. Please keep windows and doors closed!" The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and crews are working with Cadent Gas and National Grid to isolate the gas and electricity supplies to the site Jarrom Street remains closed near the junction of Oxford Street/Welford Road, with a diversion in place and disruption continuing to affect routes to the nearby Leicester Royal Infirmary. Leicestershire Police said it was notified of the fire at 23:36 on Tuesday and that the cause of the fire was under investigation. It added an examination of the scene and assessment of the structure would be carried out in due course. The force advised those travelling into the city to avoid the area or find an alternative route. Residents living nearby have been urged to keep their windows and doors closed. A spokesperson for the fire service added: "We would like to take this opportunity to ask members of the public to please be careful during this ongoing heatwave with anything that could start a fire, whether in the countryside, or in urban areas. "The warm, dry conditions mean fires can start easily and spread very quickly." Update 15:30 Following a fire investigation this morning, we can now confirm that the most probable cause of the incident is accidental. The fire began on the ground floor before spreading to the roof of the church. The building was secure at the time, with no sign of forced entry.

You do not have to wait 24 hours to report someone missing If you think someone is in danger you can report them missing right away. Reporting a missing person If the missing person is in immediate danger, is a young child or vulnerable to harm, call 999 now. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service. If you don’t think they are in immediate danger you can: report a missing person online call 101 Your report will be dealt with by our control room in exactly the same way whether you report it online or call 101. If you report online you will get an email confirming that we've got your report and telling you what will happen next. And you may find it easier to answer the questions online at your own pace. Report a missing person online If you are worried about someone's safety, do not hesitate to tell us. It is not wasting police time to report someone missing. We are here to protect you and your loved ones. What you can do If you don't think someone is in immediate danger, before you report someone missing you should: ring round friends and family check your phone and email for messages search the home or wherever they were last seen check the loft, garden, shed or garage remember that children can fit into small spaces look for any notes or other clues ring round local hospitals If you can, make a note of everything you do. Leave the missing person's room and things alone in case we need to take a DNA sample. It is not illegal to go missing A missing person will not be in trouble or be arrested for going missing. Our first concern is for the missing person's wellbeing. It is not wasting police time to report someone missing. You won't be in trouble for reporting someone missing.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service is currently attending a large scrubland fire at Ives Head Trig Point, south of Shepshed, approximately 100 by 200 metres in size. They have seven fire engines at the scene, plus a water carrier. Please could local residents close doors and windows to avoid smoke inhalation. more to follow