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

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