Think carefully before buying cut-price football kits and merchandise, particularly from unofficial sellers Leicestershire Trading Standards officers are warning football fans to be on their guard when buying merchandise in the run-up to the World Cup this summer, following a recent enforcement operation at Measham Car Boot Sale. The operation, carried out on Sunday 17 May in partnership with Leicestershire Police, resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of suspected counterfeit and potentially unsafe goods. Among the items seized were 52 England football shirts and kits, including adult and children’s versions, all believed to be counterfeit. The wider haul was made up of almost 500 items, including softs toy containing potential carcinogens, suspected counterfeit Calvin Klein underwear, Nike socks, Labubu dolls, Mario toys, Adidas bags, Apple Airpods, illegal tobacco and vapes. Most of the items seized were suspected to be counterfeit, and some of them were also potentially unsafe. In total, the goods seized would have had an estimated retail value of more than £10,500 if they had been genuine. A man was arrested for suspected offences under the Trademarks Act following the seizure and was later bailed pending further investigation. Leicestershire Trading Standards is now urging fans to think carefully before buying cut-price football kits and merchandise, particularly from unofficial sellers. While counterfeit items can look convincing, and consumers are tempted by the cheap price, they are often poorly manufactured and may contain harmful dyes or toxic substances, as well as harming legitimate businesses. There are a number of ways to spot a fake shirt: The price is the first indication the kit may be fake Fake shirts also often fail to replicate the intricate detailing of official crests There should be no loose threads or glue marks Fakes can have messy embroidery or logos that peel off easily Check the quality of the hem and sleeve stitching and the thread colour inside the shirts as this usually matches the fabric Authentic shirts should feel lightweight, smooth, and breathable, while fakes can feel flimsy, cheap or heavy Councillor Dan Harrison, leader of Leicestershire County Council Said: “As excitement builds ahead of the World Cup, we know fans will be keen to show their support. However, if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit goods may appear authentic, but they can be poorly made and, in some cases, unsafe. Buying fake merchandise not only risks your safety but also undercuts honest businesses that adhere to strict environmental, safety and employment laws.” Trading Standards will continue to work with partner agencies to disrupt the sale of counterfeit and unsafe products across the county, particularly as demand for football merchandise increases. Anyone with information about the sale of counterfeit or unsafe goods is encouraged to report it to Trading Standards. Leicestershire County Council News

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Emergency services responded to an incident on Loughborough Road in Leicester this morning at around 8am. The road near the Little Mead park entrance was closed in both directions and a police cordon was established. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and East Midlands Ambulance also attended. A woman was arrested. Pictures by Leicester Media Online A spokesperson from Leicestershire Police said: “Officers were called to a pedestrian bridge near to Loughborough Road, Leicester, at 8.50am this morning (Sunday May 24 ) following a report of a woman on a pedestrian bridge close to the River Soar. Officers attended, along with other emergency services. At 11.24am the woman came down safely from the bridge. A 21-year-old woman, from Leicester, was arrested on suspicion of causing a public nuisance and is currently in police custody.” Media Pictures By Leicester Media Online

A Christmas night out in December last year ended with a man being seriously injured after an assault outside a pub in Appleby Magna. Sadly, the victim never regained consciousness and died six days later. On Sunday 21 December 2025, David Darke, 66 - also known as Dave to family and friends – was on a Christmas night out at a pub in Appleby Magna when he was punched by 37-year-old Nathan Gothard. Dave fell to the ground and sustained a serious head injury. He was taken to the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham where he died on 27 December. Gothard of Church Street, Appleby Magna, was initially arrested on suspicion of Section 20 Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). Following Dave’s death, he was further arrested on suspicion of murder. The court heard how during the evening Gothard was harassing and making unwelcome advances to female members of Dave’s group. Gothard ignored requests from the group to leave them alone, and because of this Gothard was asked repeatedly to leave by staff, and only so after 20 minutes of asking. More than 10 minutes later Dave and his friends left the premises where Gothard was waiting outside, when Dave was punched by Gothard. CCTV footage obtained during the investigation captures part of the altercation which led to Dave’s traumatic head injury. Footage also showed Gothard walking away from the scene to his home which was only a short distance from the pub. On (Thursday 7 May) at Leicester Crown Court Gothard was found guilty of manslaughter. He re appeared in court today Friday 22 May where he was jailed for 10 years. Nathan Gothard Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) Murder Investigation Team, said: “In those fateful few moments a family have been left devastated, and the perpetrator now faces a lengthy term in prison. “Gothard’s actions that day could have been avoided if he had just walked away. This case highlights how one-punch encounters can result in the loss of life. “Dave’s family have shown immense courage throughout the investigation and legal process; this has been in no way easy for them. We hope this outcome now helps them to come to terms with the events of that night and the loss of their loved one.” 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. Further information on the campaign can be found here https://www.leics.police.uk/police-forces/leicestershire-police/areas/leicestershire-force-content/c/campaigns/2023/walk_away/ Leicestershire Police News - Published: 14:05 07/05/2026

“Dave was a strong, fit, hardworking man, who lived honestly and treated people with respect.” These are the words from a family coming to terms with the death of their loved one as the person responsible for his death was jailed for 10 years at Leicester Crown Court today (Friday 22 May). On Sunday 21 December 2025, David Darke, 66 - known as Dave to family and friends – was on a Christmas night out at a pub in Appleby Magna when he was punched by 37-year-old Nathan Gothard. Dave fell to the ground and sustained a serious head injury. He was taken to the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham where he died on 27 December. Following a trial at Leicester Crown Court earlier this month Gothard, of Church Street in Appleby Magna, was found guilty of manslaughter. David Darke Today Dave’s family spoke about how they have finally seen the person responsible for his death sentenced. They said: “Our family has finally seen the person responsible for Dave’s death sentenced. Although the sentence shows some accountability, no sentence will ever truly reflect what has been taken from us. “Gothard was a braggart whose local pub Dave’s colleagues visited after their works Christmas meal. Dave’s only ‘crime’ that night was stepping in the way of a thug intent on harassing the women and antagonising the men in the group. “Dave was a much-loved father, brother, grandfather, and friend. He was a strong, fit, hardworking man who lived honestly and treated people with respect. He was an accomplished craftsman who could turn his hand to anything, and there was very little he could not fix or build. He had always worked hard and was looking forward to retirement and enjoying the next chapter of life with his family. “What makes this even harder to accept is that it was completely avoidable. If Gothard had simply gone home when he was told to, Dave would still be here today. “Instead, we have had to endure the unimaginable. We watched Dave’s life support being turned off and then sat through a trial with every painful detail of his final hours repeated in court. No family should ever have to experience that. “Dave continued to help others. Through organ donation, at least four people have been given a chance of life. That says everything about the kind of man he was — even in death, he gave to others. “We would like to thank Senior Investigating Officer Kev Hames and his team at Leicestershire Police, our barrister, the staff at the QMC Hospital, and our wider family and friends for the support they have given us throughout this terrible time. “Nothing will ever bring Dave back. Our family has been changed forever, and we will carry this loss for the rest of our lives.” Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) Murder Investigation Team, said: “Dave’s family’s words are humbling to read. They have shown immense courage throughout the last five months. “Gothard had every opportunity to walk away but he chose to remain outside the pub and his actions that day have devastated a family. “They will now need to navigate their lives without their loved one. On behalf of the team, I would like to thank them for their courage and understanding.” Further details about the case can be found here. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 15:51 22/05/2026

Glenfield Parish Council is hosting "Glenfield Goes to the Seaside" on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. This free family event features Punch & Judy shows, a sandpit, a circus workshop, a hog roast, live music, and deck chairs. Glenfield Goes to the Seaside. Taking place on Saturday 23rd May 2026, from 12 noon until 3.00pm, this exciting new event will bring all the fun and atmosphere of the seaside. Families, residents and visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy an afternoon packed with traditional seaside entertainment, activities and food in a relaxed community setting. The event will feature: A lively circus workshop Traditional Punch & Judy shows A seaside-themed sandpit and deck chairs Delicious hog roast Live music throughout the afternoon A classic ice cream van Hosted by Glenfield Parish Council, the event has been created to bring the community together and offer something enjoyable for everyone as we head into the summer season. The event will be held at: Park House Stamford Street Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8DL Please note there will be a nominal charge for food. We hope residents will come along, enjoy the seaside atmosphere and support what promises to be a fantastic new addition to Glenfield's community events calendar.

Officers investigating an incident in which a member of staff was stabbed outside a Glenfield fish and chip shop are appealing for the owners of two vehicles to come forward. Police were called just before 6.45pm on Saturday (16 May) following a report of an argument involving members of staff. One man reported he had been stabbed with a kebab knife. His injuries were not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. A 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He has since been released on bail and enquiries are continuing. Detective Constable Callum Judge, the investigating officer, said: “From enquiries carried out since the incident occurred, we know a grey Nissan had just pulled up and a blue vehicle was stopped in the road due to the incident". “I’m appealing for the owners of those vehicles to come forward as they may have witnessed the incident and be able to provide information about what happened". “I’d also appeal for anyone else who was in the area at the time but who has not yet spoken to police to get in touch.” 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*283436. Alternatively call 101. Leicester Police News

Resilience forum's call to ensure businesses are ready. Sonal Devani, Chair of the LRF’s Business Continuity Group Businesses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) are being advised to ‘think again’ about how prepared they are for possible emergencies like cyber attacks and severe weather which can disrupt their supply chains, IT and more. The call for businesses to re-think their preparedness is being issued by the Local Resilience Forum (LRF) to coincide with Business Continuity and Resilience Awareness Week which runs from 18 – 22 May. Local businesses are being encouraged to ‘think again’ about: Their key risks, taking into account modern threats like cyber attacks and disinformation Creating and testing a bespoke Business Continuity Plan to make sure they’re ready for the unexpected Increased incidents of severe weather External shocks that may cause supplier failures or other issues Making sure everyone knows what to do and who to contact in an emergency Sonal Devani, Chair of the LRF’s Business Continuity Group, said: “In a fast-changing world, it’s more important than ever for businesses across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to ‘think again’ about emerging risks and be prepared. “The reality is that today’s businesses are dealing with new and emerging threats that are very different to the ‘traditional emergencies’ of the past. “Business Continuity Week is a perfect opportunity for businesses to review their Business Continuity Plans and, if necessary, put new steps in place. Being proactive rather than reactive will help them respond quicker and recover faster in the event of an incident.” Free, industry-led webinars, tools and resources to boost business resilience – including a handy template to create your own Business Continuity Plan - can be found on the LRF’s Risk Ready Businesses page.(Link is external and opens in new window) Leicestershire County Council News

The refurb of Coalville Library has proved a hit with people since reopening to the public. Earlier this year work took place to modernise and update Leicestershire County Council’s library, with a focus on an improved layout of the library’s entrance and new shelving to offer more books. New carpeting throughout also helps to revitalise the library. With the library being popular with young families, an overhaul was done to the children’s area to include new furnishings including sensory features and increases seating for families to use. Coalville Library is a popular hub for the local area, with community groups regularly using the space and more than 65,000 visits a year. Since reopening, the site has been a hit with library users, children and families taking advantage of the new facilities with praise for the new seating areas and the children’s area. An event was held to formally mark the space’s refurbishment alongside a thanks to staff for helping to make the space a welcoming community hub. Councillor Kevin Crook, cabinet member for libraries said: “Libraries are so much more than just books. They can be focal points for communities and Coalville Library has always been at the heart of this town, and today it is even better equipped to serve people for many years to come. “I’m so pleased to see the great work this great refurb had done to the library, and I also want to thank the fantastic staff who make it such a welcoming place.” The project was fully-funded through section 106 planning contributions from new developments in the local area. Find out more about Coalville Library’s opening times and the activities on offer by visiting the Coalville Library website. Leicestershire County Council News - Thursday, 21 May, 2026

The driver of a car involved in a collision which killed a teenage girl in Cotesbach has been charged. Jack Reape, 31, of Townley Road, Wakefield, has been charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving, one count of causing death by driving while disqualified and three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. The charges relate to a collision involving two cars – a white Citroen C3 and a black Mercedes CLK – on Friday 15 December 2023 on the A426 Rugby Road. The collision resulted in the death of 18-year-old Chloe Pearson, who was a passenger in the C3. Chloe’s twin sister, Abigail Pearson, was also travelling in the C3 and was seriously injured. The driver and the passenger in the CLK were also seriously injured. Reape is due to appear at Leicester Crown Court on Tuesday 26 May. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 14:54 21/05/2026

Latest event to help families find out more. The latest event showcasing support and taster sessions for children and young people with SEND is returning to Glenfield Leicestershire County Council’s Local Offer Celebration Event and Roadshow is a welcoming space to explore activities, connect with local organisations and enjoy time together. The next event is taking place at the Pavilion, County Hall, Glenfield, on Thursday 28th May, from 1:30-3pm and families can bring along a picnic and enjoy a relaxed afternoon packed with engaging opportunities. Sports taster sessions, creative arts and sensory activities will be available, as well as interactive stalls from local support organisations and opportunities to meet providers who can support children and families. Already confirmed to attend are a range of well-known organisations, including: Leicester Wheels For All Blaby & District Spartans Inclusive FC Leicestershire County Cricket Club Leicestershire & Rutland County FA Ambition Sports Coaching Ltd The event is part of the Local Offer programme, which brings together services, support, and opportunities for children and young people with SEND and their families Councillor Charles Pugsley, cabinet member for children and families said: “These events are such a fantastic way for families to find out about the support and services available to them. “I know we thoroughly enjoy hosting them, so whether you're looking for new activities, valuable support, or simply a fun afternoon out, the Local Offer Celebration Event and Roadshow promises something for everyone.” Families are encouraged to register in advance to secure their place and avoid missing out. Book a place by visiting the Local Offer Roadshows page. Roadshows 2026 Local Offer Roadshows 2026: Roadshow Type Location Date/Time Children and Young People's Celebration event and Roadshow County Hall, Glenfield, LE3 8HD Thursday 28 May13.30 to 15.00 Local Offer Roadshow Leicester University, Gilbert Murray Hall, Stamford Court, LE2 2LH Wednesday 24 June 10.00 to 13.00 Children and Young People’s Roadshow County Hall, Glenfield, LE3 8HD Thursday 24 September 17.00 to 19.30 Local Offer Roadshow Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre, LE67 3FE Wednesday 4 November 10.00 to 13.00

Some Firefighters go through their entire career without rescuing a single cat from a tree, but the thing about cliches is every so often they come around! Poor old Rojak got stuck up a tree on Staples Drive in Coalville early yesterday evening, after his lead became caught in a tree branch 30ft from the ground, crews from Coalville Fire Station came to his rescue. They had him down and reunited with his grateful owner within minutes. Pictures credit - Coalville Fire Station If you see an animal in distress, never put yourself in harm's way attempting to rescue it yourself - always contact the appropriate animal welfare organisation. Do you want to be a Firefighter? We can't promise cat rescues, but we do offer a rewarding career with no two days the same, serving and protecting your local community: https://orlo.uk/WZ18v #NotJustFires