Residents and tourists in Melton Mowbray and Leicestershire will benefit from more than £49 million in Government investment to reduce congestion, improve air quality and provide faster local journeys, the Roads Minister Richard Holden announced today (Thursday 9 March). The new road scheme – part of a £115.2 million total investment between the Government, local council and private investors - will help unlock the full potential of Britain’s “Rural Capital of Food”, stamping out “rat running” car and lorry traffic from Melton Mowbray and making it easier for residents and tourists to access its historic town centre. With the town famous for its Melton Mowbray pork pie heritage – a protected status - the project will generate an estimated £144 million in economic opportunities by boosting local tourism and supporting over 3,400 new jobs. This will help level up local communities and deliver on one of the Government’s five priorities to grow the economy. The scheme consists of a single carriageway road and extends from the A606 Nottingham Road at the north-western edge of the town to the A606 Burton Road in the south, crossing Scalford Road, Melton Spinney Road, A607 Thorpe Road and B676 Saxby Road to Burton Road. Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “For too many years, Melton has been plagued by disruptive and polluting traffic congestion which has made it difficult to reach its historic town centre, grow our economy, and savour its delicious pork pies and Stilton cheese. “That’s why we’re investing nearly £50 million to boost local connectivity and tackle congestion, supporting more than 3,400 jobs to help Britain’s ‘Rural Capital of Food’ truly reach its full potential.” Melton Mowbray’s historic town centre network is at the convergence of six major routes and sees some of the highest congestion levels on a per mile basis in Leicestershire, mainly because of a high number of heavy lorries passing through the town centre. The new road will take traffic away from the town centre, allowing residents and tourists to visit Melton’s celebrated Market Place more easily while boosting local air quality and connectivity. The project will pave the way for better active travel opportunities by providing a 3m wide combined cycle and footway along almost all of the scheme’s length. It will also improve bus punctuality by taking lorries and heavy traffic away from the town centre. As local authorities predict growing demand for travel into Melton Mowbray, local traffic congestion is expected to increase which could seriously affect the attractiveness of the town to tourists and hamper economic growth. This scheme is just one part of a wider transport strategy for the town which will include other measures to address localised traffic issues, public transport improvements, as well as walking and cycling connectivity. The new single carriageway road will be funded by £49.5 million in Government investment, alongside £51.7 million by Leicestershire County Council and £14 million by private funding. Roads Minister Richard Holden and Councillor Deborah Taylor, deputy leader of Leicestershire County Council, on site in Melton Councillor Deborah Taylor, deputy leader of Leicestershire County Council, said: “Shorter journey times and reliability are absolutely crucial in securing new business investment, and this new road is vital to support the future growth of the Melton economy “I’m very pleased that, by approving our Full Business Case, the government recognises the importance of this road with the award of this hugely significant funding. “We’re delighted to welcome the Minister to Leicestershire and we can now look forward to the major construction work starting in the next few weeks.” With the opening scheduled for Summer 2025, the project will create new junctions with the radials on its route and provide crossings over the railway line and the River Eye. This measure aligns well with national policy objectives to tackle congestion, encourage economic and housing growth as well as delivering better bus services and improved infrastructure to boost cycling and walking. Leicestershire County Council is working hard to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses, with a “meet the contractor” event being hosted by construction group Galliford Try on Friday and Saturday 17th and 18 March where attendees can find out more about the project. Paul Bennell, Managing Director, Samworth Brothers Supply Chain, said: “This announcement is good news for Melton, helping to reduce traffic congestion and delays. Much work has also been undertaken to position Melton Mowbray as a successful ‘Rural Capital of Food’, including by our team at the Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe. This development will help the town further build on its successful efforts in this area and create more economic benefits.”

The Great Central Railway has been awarded a £250,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, marking a major milestone for the railway and reflecting the continued strengthening of its long-term relationship with the funder. Thanks to National Lottery players, the grant will support a programme of activity focused on enhancing the railway’s volunteer experience, enriching visits for passengers and visitors, and advancing environmental sustainability across the organisation. Image Credit: John Bagshaw A significant element of the funding will be dedicated to volunteers – the lifeblood of the railway. Investment will support the recruitment of a Volunteer Ambassador role, alongside improvements to induction and training, stronger support arrangements, and outreach work with schools and underrepresented communities. The aim is to make volunteering at the Great Central Railway an even more rewarding experience while helping to attract and retain the people who keep Britain’s only double-track main line heritage railway running. The grant will also support the development of future visitor experiences, with pilot projects linked to the railway’s long-term vision as Britain’s Living Railway. These initiatives will explore new ways of bringing the railway’s rich stories to life, with early concepts including enhanced interpretation, immersive living history experiences, and the use of heritage buses to encourage visitors to discover more of the railway and the surrounding area during their visit. In addition, funding has been secured to develop an Environmental Sustainability Plan. This work will help the railway better understand its environmental impact and identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and support biodiversity across the estate. This successful bid also strengthens the railway’s ability to pursue larger strategic heritage projects in future, including those connected to Reunification and the continued long-term development of the line. The achievement reflects the dedication and commitment shown across the organisation by its staff and volunteers. From operating trains and maintaining infrastructure to restoring locomotives and rolling stock, supporting administration, serving customers and representing the railway to the public, the collective effort of the Great Central Railway team has played a central role in securing this significant investment. Work on the funded projects will begin in the coming months, with further updates to be shared as each initiative progresses. Press release via FU Media - Fraser Urquhart

Visit Leicester has officially announced its Green Days, Green Stays and Green Ways campaign, a major initiative designed to highlight the benefits of regenerative tourism and encourage eco-friendly travel throughout the city and county. Tourists the world over are increasingly aware of the impact of their travel and want to know that their choices make a positive difference, rather than leave a negative impact. Moving beyond traditional sustainability, the campaign focuses on "regenerative tourism" - an approach that allows visitors to immerse themselves in local culture, eat food grown and made nearby, reconnect with nature, and support independent businesses while leaving a minimal environmental footprint. As the UK’s first Environment City, Leicester is uniquely positioned to lead this movement. The campaign showcases the region's diverse "green" assets: Green Days: celebrates authentic experiences, from exploring the city’s 190+ parks, gardens and open spaces that offer an oasis of calm, visiting an attraction that is taking initiatives to reducing its carbon footprint to getting back to nature in the countryside or learning traditional woodland skills in the National Forest. Green Stays: Highlights accredited, eco-friendly accommodation, including Green Key certified hotels and tech-free rural hideaways. Green Ways: Promotes low-impact travel via an extensive network of walking routes, National Cycle Route 6, and the city’s signature green e-buses. The initiative spotlights local businesses and attractions leading the way in carbon reduction. This includes the National Space Centre, which explores humanity's impact on the solar system and Earth’s ecosystems, and local breweries that use solar energy to produce over 100,000 pints of beer annually. City attractions at King Richard III Visitor Centre and Jewry Wall both use systems to reduce energy usage and selected planting in the gardens that does not need additional watering. There are cafés on national cycle routes that only source local ingredients to reduce food miles and tech free hideaways where you can immerse yourself in nature for a while and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place marketing at Leicester City Council, said: “People want to know that their choices make a difference. Through this campaign, we are showing visitors how they can support local people and experience our real, authentic culture while preserving the environment for future generations.” For more information on how to plan your sustainable visit, go to https://visitleicester.info/green/ Press release via FU Media - Fraser Urquhart

Leicester’s Museum Square will once again be transformed into a vibrant hub of Caribbean joy as the Windrush Tea Party returns for another amazing celebration on Saturday 20th June. What's On Organised by Opal22, the event takes place from 12pm to 8pm at Museum Square, New Walk, Leicester, and invites families, friends, and communities of all backgrounds to come together for an unforgettable day honouring the legacy of the Windrush Generation. With entrance operating on a ‘pay-what-you-can-afford’ basis to help keep the celebration accessible to all, the event offers opportunities to celebrate the stories, traditions, and contributions that continue to shape Britain today. Windrush Day marks an important opportunity to celebrate and recognise the Caribbean migrants who answered Britain’s call after World War II and helped rebuild the country. From the NHS and transport services to education and public services, the Windrush Generation became the backbone of modern Britain. Despite facing racism, discrimination, and difficult working conditions, they brought resilience, culture, music, food, and a strong sense of community that continues to shape Britain today. The Windrush Tea Party is our way of saying thank you, by sharing stories, celebrating Caribbean heritage, and honouring the generations whose contributions deserve to be remembered and celebrated. Visitors can look forward to a full day of festive delights, including live performances from celebrated artists and emerging talent, uplifting steel pan music, and Caribbean food stalls serving mouthwatering flavours from across the islands. The event will also feature cultural market stalls offering handmade goods, artwork, and keepsakes, alongside a dedicated Kids’ Activity Corner packed with games, crafts, and family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy friendly competition and community spirit at the Dominoes Corner, relax and dance in the heart of the celebration, or indulge in the Caribbean High Tea Experience — a luxurious Caribbean-inspired twist on a classic British tradition. Headlining This Year’s Celebration: This year’s event will be hosted by comedian Annette Fagon, bringing laughter, energy, and plenty of entertainment throughout the day. Headlining the event will be special guest appearances from beloved Gogglebox stars Sandi and Sandra, whose presence adds major excitement and star power to this year’s celebration. They will be joined by incredible live performances from: Contrast Steel Band Attraction B Angela’s Angels Sam Harris Plus many more special musical guests and performers bringing the sounds and rhythms of the Caribbean to Leicester city centre. Caribbean High Tea For those looking to indulge, a Caribbean-Infused High Tea is available for pre-order and offers the perfect way to relax and soak up the atmosphere. For just £35 per person, guests will have access to a sheltered seating area within the square while enjoying a carefully curated High Tea experience with a Caribbean twist. With your own space to rest and refresh while still enjoying full access to the event, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the atmosphere around you. As part of our long-standing tradition, we are offering a reduced High Tea to our invited Windrush elders as a heartfelt thank-you for their contributions and sacrifices. Pre-booking is required for all High Tea guests, including elders. Visit https://opal22.co.uk/ to reserve your place . PAY WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD AND SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY This year, entrance to the Windrush Tea Party will operate on a pay-what-you-can afford basis, helping to support the future growth and sustainability of this much-loved community celebration while ensuring the event remains accessible to all. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps Opal22 continue delivering a vibrant day of culture, entertainment, education, and community connection, while supporting event production, performers, community engagement, and the preservation of this important annual tradition. By contributing what they can, attendees play a valuable part in ensuring the Windrush Tea Party can continue celebrating Caribbean heritage and honouring the Windrush Generation for many years to come. Come celebrate the Windrush Generation, Caribbean culture, and the power of community. Let’s make this Windrush Tea Party one to remember! For more information about the Windrush Tea Party and other initiatives by Opal22, visit www.opal22.co.uk Event Details: Date: Saturday June 20th, 2026 Time: 12pm - 8pm. Location: Museum Square, New Walk, Leicester. Entry: Pay What You Can Afford. High Tea Experience: £35 per person (advance booking required) Press release via FU Media - Fraser Urquhart

Former carer gives top tips on supporting someone with dementia A former carer has written a heartfelt leaflet with tips on how to support a loved one with dementia. Ken Swale 88-year-old Ken Swale from Loughborough was a carer for his wife Dorothy who was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia for many years, before she sadly passed away in 2022. He became part of Leicestershire County Council’s adult social care engagement panel to help give input on dementia services that the council provides. Since losing his wife, Ken has dedicated time to educate other carers in as many ways as possible, including his ‘Ken’s Top Tips’ leaflet - full of practical advice on caring for a loved one living with dementia. Ken said: “When Dorothy passed away, of course I grieved, but after two weeks I woke looked up to the ceiling and said 'Thank You Dot" the way she thanked me for looking after her every day until her passing. “Today I walk to her tree I chose - to touch a branch and say ‘thank you Dot for looking after me. This helps to put a smile on my face as my Dorothy would approve. “The Ken’s Tips pamphlet helps those to avoid the stress of being a carer for their loved ones.” Councillor Michael Squires, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “What Ken has done is selfless and incredible, and he is one of many who care for loved ones living with dementia every day. “It can be a daunting time when a dementia diagnosis is made, but there is so much support available, including the dementia support service we help to fund and is delivered by Age UK and, of course, Ken’s own leaflet.” Dementia Action Week (18–24 May) highlights the importance of early recognition, diagnosis and support for people affected by dementia. Dementia often remains undiagnosed in its early stages, but timely identification can significantly improve support available. The Dementia Support Service, provided by Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland offers free information, support and guidance for people with memory issues and/or a diagnosis of dementia, and their carers. For more information visit the Living with Dementia page, call 0116 223 7363 or email the Age UK dementia support team.(link sends email) Ken's leaflet is available to view and download here.(Link is external and opens in new window) Leicestershire Country Council News - Monday, 18 May, 2026 Leicestershire Matters

The North East Melton Mowbray Distributor Road will fully open to traffic from today (18 May), with the new route – now named Pork Pie Way. The £131m, 4.5-mile road runs from the A606 Nottingham Road near St Bartholomew’s Way around the eastern edge of Melton Mowbray to the A606 near Burton Lazars. It is designed to reduce congestion in the town centre, improve journey reliability and support future housing and economic growth. The scheme also includes new walking and cycling routes. Delivered by Galliford Try on behalf of Leicestershire County Council, the scheme marks the completion of the council’s largest ever highways project. Some minor works will continue off‑carriageway following opening including operational monitoring to be completed in line with standard highways practice. Drivers are asked to take care and follow signage as the route opens. The name "Pork Pie Way" Was chosen by local residents in a decisive public vote, Leicestershire County Council’s road will be known as Pork Pie Way. The bold and distinctive name celebrates Melton Mowbray’s world-famous food heritage and its identity as the Rural Capital of Food. Nearly 4,000 people took part in the poll, with the winning name receiving overwhelming public backing, making the reveal a proud and memorable moment for the town. Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood MP, said: “I was absolutely delighted to be in Melton Mowbray today to mark the opening of Pork Pie Way – a name that embraces the history and heritage of the town – which has been backed by nearly £50 million in government investment. "It’s a proud moment that puts Melton Mowbray firmly on the map, while creating a road that will support new jobs, homes, and opportunities for years to come.” Total votes: 3,968 Pork Pie Way - 2,563 (65%) Wolds Way - 286 (7%) Lazars Way - 256 (6%) Farrier Way - 229 (6%) River Eye Road - 174 (4%) Military Way - 167 (4%) Veteran Road - 130 (3%) Victory Road - 104 (3%) Wreake Road - 59 (2%) For more information on the history of the Melton Mowbray Distributor Road, visit the webpage. Leicestershire County Council News

Police officers, police staff and members of the public were commended for their remarkable acts of bravery, professionalism, courage and determination at the Chief Constable’s Awards on (Thursday 14 May). Picture credit - Leicestershire Police A wide range of awards were presented to police officers, Police Community Support Officers, police staff, volunteers, Special Police Constables and members of the public. From showing courage in emergency situations to protecting the public and securing justice for victims - everyone was a worthy winner. The evening was opened by T/Chief Constable, David Sandall, with our Deputy Chief Constable, Michaela Kerr, and Assistant Chief Constables, Adam Streets and James Avery, presenting a wide range of awards to police officers, Police Community Support Officers, police staff, volunteers, cadets, Special Police Constables and members of the public. Highlights included; Chief Constables Commendations for Bravery: Two PCSOs who ran into a house that was in danger of catching on fire to rescue the owner and his dog; a call handler who was off duty and intervened when she witnessed a violent domestic incident, she called the police and waited with the vulnerable female victim until the police arrived and three police officers who responded to a scene where an unconscious woman had been stabbed multiple times. They provided life-saving first aid and bravely pursued and detained an armed suspect. Crown Court Commendations: An incredible 20 investigative teams were presented with Crown Court Commendations by the High Sherriff of Leicestershire, Mel Thomas. A Crown Court Commendation is a formal recognition given by a high court judge to acknowledge a thorough or complex investigation and exceptional conduct or contribution in connection with a case. Royal Humane Society Awards – presented to five officers who saved the life of a man who was found unconscious after taking drugs when they carried out a warrant at a property in Loughborough. The man has since made a full recovery and is now helping other addicts. Members of the public, and a National Highways officer, who rescued a family from a burning car on the motorway and two members of the public who came across a man bleeding heavily on the pavement. They made a makeshift torniquet to prevent further blood loss and called for help, saving his life. Unsung Heroes Award – presented to the force’s three amazing premises officers who carry out day to day repairs on all our force buildings. Nothing is too much trouble for them and they receive frequent praise for their professionalism, positivity and high quality workmanship and the force’s archivists, who are both volunteers, were recognised for ensuring that our story, our people and our legacy are never forgotten. Dozens of people were invited to attend the awards last night and the evening featured a wide variety of awards - including bravery; lifetime achievement; innovation; road safety; wellbeing, diversity and sport – as well as well-established ‘of the year’ awards for neighbourhood policing, special constables, response policing, volunteering, dog handling and contact handling. T/Chief Constable David Sandall said; “Our annual awards are the pinnacle of our calendar, and it’s always an incredible opportunity to come together and recognise the outstanding dedication, bravery, and commitment of officers and staff who make up ‘Team Leicestershire’. Every year, the nominations we receive are nothing short of exceptional, and this year is no different. “We heard stories of courage, professionalism, and selflessness which never fail to inspire, and our awards celebrate everyone who has gone above and beyond to keep our communities safe. We have people doing amazing things every day and our award winners are the pinnacle of that and they should be very proud. “Huge congratulations to all those who were nominated, highly commended, and, of course, our winners!” Leicestershire Police News Published: 12:42 15/05/2026

Officers investigating a stabbing in a Leicester night club have released an image of three men they want to speak to. Police and the East Midlands Ambulance Service were called to premises in Gravel Street at around 3.30am on Monday 4 May following a report a 19-year-old had been stabbed. He was taken to hospital to be treated for an injury that was not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. No-one has been arrested in connection with the incident but detectives believe those pictured may be able to assist with enquiries. Detective Constable Sophie Rowell, the investigating officer, said: “I’m appealing for anyone who recognises or knows these three men to get in touch. “I’d also ask them to come forward themselves should they see this appeal as they may be able to help with our ongoing 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*255676. Alternatively call 101.

Three people who were part of an organised crime group supplying drugs at a ‘wholesale’ level have been jailed for their part in the operation. Following an investigation by East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) one of the ringleaders behind the operation, 31-year-old Sarju Khushal, was jailed in March last year to 11 years.During the investigation detectives identified others who were involved in the operation at various levels. Khushal, formerly of Hazeldene Road, Leicester, would buy cocaine and heroin in wholesale amounts, then split that stock up and supply both other drug dealers and users. He used his home address, where he lived with his partner Saffron Franklin, to operate his business. Franklin assisted Khushal by taking and sending money and moving drugs for others to collect. As a result, she enjoyed some of the benefits of this criminal enterprise. Khushal paid for holidays for the two of them, giving 30-year-old Franklin cash to deposit into her account and having joint possession of the cash found at the address. During searches of their home address officers recovered a large quantity of class A and B drugs, drugs paraphernalia, numerous devices and cash. Examination of Khushal’s devices revealed the true extent of his criminality dating back to 2019. Numerous images and text messages evidencing the supply of drugs were found on his mobile phone. Khushal’s phone was examined and showed that he supplied significant amounts of cocaine and heroin, he was sentenced on the basis he had supplied 19kg of the illegal drugs. Examination of the evidence also identified Kenneth Galloway, Mohammod Jahed and Kian Senior as being involved in the supply of controlled drugs. Galloway, 31, formerly of Myrtle Road, Leicester, was involved in dealing cocaine and heroin, selling those drugs both at street level and to other dealers. He was supplied the drugs by Khushal. When Galloway was arrested four mobile devices were seized, three of these were found to contain a wealth of messages consistent with being involved in dealing class A drugs. One of the mobile devices was found to contain images of cash and drugs. Images of designer items and drugs seized from Senior's home) Jahed, 30, formerly of Coleman Close, Leicester, was a dealer who supplied significant quantities of drugs, which he purchased from Khushal, returning substantial sums of money to Khushal in return. Senior, 31, formerly of Thorpe Field Drive, Leicester, was similarly a dealer who supplied significant quantities of drugs, having sourced them from Khushal. When Senior was arrested two bags of cocaine were recovered, along with digital scales which were swabbed and found to contain residues of cocaine. Designer clothing, jewellery and cannabis gummies were also recovered from his home. Images of designer items and drugs seized from Senior's home) All four defendants were due to stand trial last month but pleaded guilty on the second day. They were sentenced at Leicester Crown Court on Thursday and Friday (14/15 May) as follows: - Franklin pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of class A drugs (heroin and cocaine), and possession of criminal property, she was sentenced to two years in prison, however the sentence was suspended for two and a half years. She was also ordered to complete 150 hours unpaid work and complete 15 days on a rehabilitation programme. Galloway pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs (cocaine and heroin) and was sentenced to 11 years and six months in prison. He is said to have been involved in the supply of at least 5kg of drugs over four years. Jahed pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs (cocaine) and was sentenced to eight years and three months in prison. He was also said to have been involved in the supply of 5kg of drugs over his offending period. Senior pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs (cocaine) and was sentenced to six years and three months in prison. He was said to have been involved in the supply of 1kg of drugs during his offending period. A sixth defendant, Reece Bell, 34, formerly of Broughton Road, Leicester, pleaded guilty in 2025 but failed to appear in court for sentencing at the time. In August last year he was subsequently jailed for three years and seven months for possession with intent to supply class A drugs and possession of criminal property. Detective Sergeant Chris Sewell was the senior investigating officer in the case, he said: “The investigation, which began in 2023, has resulted in six people involved in the supply of class A and B drugs being convicted and jailed for more than 40 years between them. “This was a significant and lengthy investigation for the team and I would like to pay testament to the investigating officer, Detective Constable Lucy Clarke, who worked tirelessly in getting a case of this size to court and subsequently a successful prosecution. “We are in no way complacent, we know disrupting such a largescale operation only opens a gap for others to fill. Our efforts to tackle the supply and distribution of controlled drugs remains ongoing and we will leave no stone unturned to identify offenders and bring them to justice. “Drugs misuse impacts many individuals and communities and is responsible for the breakdown of relationships and families.” Anyone who has any information about drugs misuse or has any suspicions about individuals who may be involved is asked to report their concerns via www.leics.police.uk Read more about Sarju Khushal’s conviction here https://www.leics.police.uk/news/leicestershire/news/2025/march/wholesale-supplier-of-class-a-drugs-jailed/ Leicestershire Police News

Leicester’s much-loved Spark Festival is in full swing, transforming venues across the city into a nine-day celebration of creativity for children and families - and this year, children aren’t just taking part, they’re helping to lead the way. Running from Saturday 16 to Sunday 24 May 2026, the nine-day festival will transform schools, libraries, community spaces and venues across the city into a vibrant celebration of the arts for young people aged 0-13 with a packed programme of performances, workshops and hands-on experiences. At the heart of this year’s festival are the “The Mega Bosses of Spark” - a group of children aged 8–13 who have played a central role in shaping not just the programme, but the overall feel and identity of the event. From influencing the creative direction and themes, to helping design the festival’s visual look, their impact can be seen across every aspect of the 2026 programme. Working alongside a professional designer, the Mega Bosses of Spark created the artwork for this year’s festival brochure cover, bringing their ideas to life and ensuring the festival truly reflects the voices and imagination of Leicester’s young people. Their vision has been clear from the start: the festival should be "fun, not boring" - a guiding principle that runs throughout the programme. They have also shaped this year's themes of Peace, Equity and Play, highlighting the importance of creativity, inclusion and joy in young people's lives. This year we launch The Children’s Choice: two of the programmes have been specifically chosen by them (Minecraft movie and sisters 360). Trina, Director of The Spark Arts for Children, said:“We’re so excited to invite families back to The Spark Festival for 2026. Our Mega Bosses have been at the centre of everything this year - from helping to shape the programme to influencing how the festival looks and feels. It's been inspiring to see their ideas come to life, and it means the festival is truly led by child's voices" The festival programme features a wide range of performances, workshops and interactive experiences, with many free or low-cost activities designed to be accessible to all. HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL INCLUDE: Take Flight (Rebel Sparks) Sat 16 May @ Attenborough Arts Centre A magical, sensory performance for babies and caregivers, set in a musical nest environment. In The Deep (Natalie Thomas & Stasha Dukic) Sat 16 May@ Pork Pie Library A gentle, under-the-sea experience for babies, featuring music, movement and puppetry in a relaxed setting. The Spark Takeover (The Spark Arts for Children) Sun 17 May @ Leicester Gallery A free, child-led event where children take charge, featuring creative activities for the whole family, co-created with Leicester school pupils. Les-tah to the Front (Crescendorious) Sat 23 May @ Curve A high-energy, interactive live music show celebrating Leicester, packed with fun, kindness and punk-style excitement. Paper Movies Workshop (Phoenix) Sat 23 May @ Phoenix A hands-on drop-in workshop where children can create their own mini films using paper film strips and a special viewing device. Graffiti Workshop & DJ Sessions (Pedestrian) Sat 23 May @ Pedestrian Work with professional artists to experiment with spray paint or learn to mix beats and create music with experienced DJs. A Minecraft Movie (PG) (Phoenix) Sat 23 & Sun 24 May @ Phoenix A special screening of the popular film, selected as a Children’s Choice highlight by the Mega Bosses. Sisters 360 (Polka Theatre, Turtle Key Arts & AIK) Sun 24 May @ Attenborough Arts Centre A funny and uplifting theatre performance following skateboarding stepsisters, followed by a Q&A with the cast and the Mega Bosses. For more than 20 years, The Spark Festival has played a key role in Leicester’s cultural life, championing children’s creativity and putting young voices centre stage — and in 2026, that commitment is more visible than ever. To ensure the festival is accessible as possible to as many as possible, tickets range from free drop-in sessions to low-cost paid events. To view the brochure online visit https://thesparkarts.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/The-Spark-Festival-2026-brochure.pdf or for full programme details and to book tickets, visit: https://thesparkarts.co.uk/upcoming-events/ FU Media

A former Leicestershire Police staff member has been sentenced after pleading guilty to unlawfully obtaining communications data. Nadeem Said, 56, of Birmingham, who previously worked as a SPOC (Single Point of Contact) Accredited Officer was sentenced to six months imprisonment suspended for 18 months at Northamptonshire Crown Court on Friday (15 May) after he previously admitted obtaining communication data from Snapchat relating to a specific username without lawful authority or a policing purpose to do so between 5 and 8 November 2022. Said was also sentenced to 20 days of rehabilitation and 200 hours of unpaid work. It is the first time a police staff member has been convicted of the charge in court in the country. Part of Said’s role in force was the lawful acquisition of communications data from service providers to support police investigations. Enquiries carried out by the force’s Professional Standards Department found that Said had falsified an application in relation to obtaining user data regarding a Snapchat account which was in contact with a person known to him - and then used this false application to unlawfully request data in relation to the account. Chief Constable David Sandall said: “Said was trusted in his role to lawfully obtain communications data to support policing investigations. He clearly breached this trust placed in him to try and obtain data for his own personal information. “These offences committed by Said undermine the hard work and dedication shown every day by officers and staff in force and will not be tolerated. “It is extremely disappointing to see a staff member in court in this way but public trust and confidence in our officers and staff is of the utmost importance. We will continue to take action against any wrongdoing in force and my thanks go to the investigation team who have worked extremely hard to bring this case to court.” Said had been suspended from the force while the investigation was ongoing. In September 2024, Said was dismissed from the force following a review of his vetting which led to the vetting being removed.

Air ambulance lands at Braunstone Leisure Centre. Early this morning, centre staff reported an emergency medical situation, prompting a rush from the air ambulance and East Midlands Ambulance Service. Police also attended to assist with the safe landing of the helicopter. The centre will remain closed for a short time this morning and should reopen around 10 a.m. A Leicestershire police spokeswoman said: “We confirm this incident was a medical emergency involving a male experiencing breathing difficulties in the water.” Air ambulance lands in car park The man was then taken to the hospital by road ambulance escorted by the police. Video by Leicester Media online We have no further details on the man's condition at this time.