Calling all Dancing Queens, this is your night to say, Thank you for the Music! FRIDAY 05 JUNE 2026, 19:30 At the Curve, 60 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1SB This international smash-hit tribute show brings all ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a production like no other. The hugely popular show, now in its 22nd year, combines the unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances by our all-star cast. Join us for the party of the year, you can dance, you can jive, and have the time of your life as we bring you all the hits, including Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, Mamma Mia, Knowing Me, Knowing You, Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, The Winner Takes It All and many many more! THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC! For without a song or a dance what are we! Touring the nation. Tickets on sale now!  Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes (including an interval) Show warnings: Contains some flashing lights (no strobe) Please note: This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme. Tickets and information https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/thank-you-for-the-music/ The Curve BOX OFFICE 0116 242 3595 ADDRESS Rutland Street Leicester LE1 1SB

Fire crews are currently battling a blaze in a flat on Fosse Road North in Leicester tonight (Monday 11 May) Three fire crews from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended around 9:30 p.m. Road closures are in place between Stephenson Drive and Battenberg Road. Pictures by Leicester Media Online This is affecting local bus services. The fire is now under control and residents were safely evacuated. Warning: Video Includes Flashing Lights Please avoid the area if possible. No report of any injuries at this time, updates will follow.

Stories from the Leicester street that dates from Roman times and is now one of the most ethnically-diverse roads in the country will be told in two exhibitions later this month. Popping to the Shops shines a spotlight on Narborough Road, looking back at its past and talking to some of the people who live and work in the area today. At Newarke Houses Museum, the exhibition will focus on the history of the area, featuring panoramic photos taken by local photographer Paul James and interviews with people whose memories go back to the early 1960s. Michael John Malloy, whose family business at 188-190 Narborough Road has been trading since 1964, is one of those sharing their memories. “When we started, we were selling everything,” he said. “We used to be Michael John for carpets, Michael John for shoes, Michael John for suits. We used to sell more Timex watches than Lewis’s! “In 1964, the main trading area was from the railway bridge to Imperial Avenue – there were five butcher shops along that stretch, banks, furniture shops, a ladies’ clothing shop and shoe shops. “The main difference now is the people – there are a lot more nationalities here today, and fewer students, who now all live in purpose-built apartments.” While Michael John Flooring has been trading in the area since the 1960s, Igor Muzica from Boon Boon – a bakery specialising in Eastern European baked goods that opened in 2023 – is one of the newest arrivals on the street. “We opened the shop here because Narborough Road is one of Leicester’s busiest streets,” said Igor, who’s from Moldova. “I like the street because here you can meet people from other countries – like Bulgaria and Slovakia – and ask them about their culture and about the cakes in their country. “We’re happy and the customers are happy!” Other interviews featured in the exhibition reflect the changing make-up of the Narborough Road population. Kate Malloy works at Westcotes Library, which has been part of the Narborough Road street scene since 1889. “While the types of businesses on Narborough Road haven’t changed much over the years, the people who run them and the products they’re selling are noticeably different,” said neighbourhood services assistant Kate. “Ten years ago, for example, the international supermarket across the road was very much geared towards Asian customers. Today, there’s also a Turkish bakery in there, as well as foods we wouldn’t have seen five years ago.” The library has adapted to new audiences too. “When a new member joins the library, we always ask what their preferred reading language is,” said Kate. “As a result, we now have a much bigger Polish section, as well as a small – but quite popular – selection of Russian language books.” Objects and memorabilia from past and present shops, including a teaching keyboard used at IntaSound (70 Narborough Road) and a pricing gun from Wilko – which opened on Narborough Road in 1949 but closed in April 2022 – will also be on display at Newarke Houses Museum. A second exhibition at Westcotes Library will use archive photographs of the area, together with a brief history of the shops shown in the images. Deputy city mayor and Westcotes ward councillor Adam Clarke said: “This project, led by our museums’ service, shines a light on some of the people who help make Narborough Road the vibrant area it is today. “Their stories, together with some great photos from the archives, combine to make two very interesting exhibitions.” Assistant city mayor for education, libraries and community centres Cllr Vi Dempster said: “Westcotes Library has been at the heart of the Narborough Road community for more than 130 years, so it’s the perfect place for an exhibition that looks back at the area’s past. “If you’re interested in local history, have a look at the exhibition next time you pop in to Westcotes library, where you’ll find information and resources that will help you discover even more about your local area. “And if you’re not already a library member, it’s easy to join. Just bring along a form of ID and we can register you as a member, free of charge.” Popping to the Shops is supported using public funding by Arts Council England. The exhibitions open at Westcotes Library and Newarke Houses Museum on Friday 26 January and continue until 28 April 2024. Leicester City council news

James Marman (A Crew manager at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service) is fundraising for Rainbows Hospice, an incredible place that gave Erinne and her family care, comfort and unforgettable memories during the hardest time. Erinne was 6 years old when she was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. In spring 2024, she received radiotherapy which thankfully gave her time to live life to the fullest and make memories with her family and friends. The Rainbows team supported Erinne and her parents through every stage of the journey and they continue to support the family now. Rainbows is a hospice providing compassionate and expert care to babies, children and young people with serious and terminal conditions across the East Midlands. The unique needs of each baby, child and family are the centre of everything they do, and they work collaboratively to provide care and support and create opportunities and meaningful memories through illness, death and bereavement. The care they offer is wide ranging and includes end of life care, symptom management, emergency care and short breaks and is available in the hospice, at home and in hospitals. Erinne passed away in June 2025, but her spirit and love for Rainbows lives on. I want to honour her and help this amazing hospice continue its vital work for other children and families. Every donation makes a difference. Please help me to support Rainbows in memory of Erinne. Throughout 2026 I will be carrying out different challenges. My first one is to run 5k everyday in February. Feb- 5K everyday April- Leicester 10K June- Rutland 10K August- 1 mile every hour for 24 hours October- Leicester half marathon November- Run around Rutland water Make a donation here https://www.justgiving.com/page/james-marman?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People As the East Midlands’ only hospice for children and young people, we brighten the short lives of babies, children and young people who come to Rainbows. We want them to have fun and make special memories. We are also here to support their loved ones through the most difficult times of their lives.

Street security patrols will continue in Loughborough town centre following a successful first year. The patrols provide a visible presence to help tackle retail crime and anti-social behaviour. The scheme is being funded and led through Charnwood Borough Council and Love Loughborough BID. Following the introduction of the programme in 2025, the street patrols have supported 127 individual businesses directly and visited Loughborough businesses on over 3,000 occasions. Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for Housing, Economic Development, Regeneration and Town Centres, said: “The security patrols have made a huge difference in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour within the town centre therefore this is an important investment to help protect our local businesses. “The feedback we have received from local shop owners and businesses has been really positive and we are pleased to be able to keep supporting them.” The scheme was originally funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, however will be continued with £30,000 of investment from the borough council and Love Loughborough BID. Lez Cope Newman, Chair of Love Loughborough BID, said: “I am pleased that we are able to extend the scheme to have our friendly street patrollers in the town centre. “They have been an invaluable asset at over 12 major events, ensuring visitors to Loughborough felt safe and welcome. “Their visible presence has served as a deterrent, and the results are clear to see that they have made a significant difference to Loughborough.” Charnwood Council News - Published: Wed 6th May, 2026

Multi award-winning charity Circus Starr are bringing its inclusive and sensory‑friendly circus shows nationally starting in Leicester this month. They will be touring a brand new show offering unforgettable and magical experiences, specifically tailored for SEND and neurodivergent children and their families. Their performances take place in 74 locations throughout the UK and organisers strive to create a welcoming and inclusive space so that families can attend without fear of stigma and discrimination. Events Manager, Jon Mitchell said ‘’This year’s show will be our most ambitious yet, with an imaginative theme of Circus under the Sea! Families can expect to see sensory LED acts, Jugglers, acrobatics and more.” The events are all set up to relaxed theatre standards, which feature reduced volumes and considered lighting with special attention paid to sensory triggers. There is also a British Sign Language interpreter at every single show. The charity has recently celebrated winning a national Scope Disability Award, recognising its’ achievements in breaking down barriers for the families that it supports. ‘’We love sharing our fun events with those who finds it challenging to access live performances.” Said charity trustee Michelle Crossley. “Whilst our show is very visual, it is important to us that those with hearing impairments can enjoy the performance in its entirety, and we are proud to have our interpreters at each of our shows to help make that possible’’. First performance takes place at Judge meadow Community College in Evington, Leicester on Saturday 23rd May 2026. To find out more about the Leicester show or how to support this charity, visit www.circus-starr.org.uk Circus Starr Spring 2026 runs from 23rd May - 28th June

An investigation into an assault in Sweetbriar Road, Leicester, yesterday morning (Sunday 10 May), continues. The incident was reported at 11.25am, the 33-year-old victim was taken to hospital for treatment, he has since been discharged. A 51-year-old woman, who was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm with intent, has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. The scene was cordoned off while enquiries were ongoing at the scene but that has since been lifted. Drone Footage Sweetbriar Road - Credits DJ Audits If anyone witnessed the incident or has any information which may assist, they are asked to contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting crime number 26*269047.

Pictures by Leicester Media Online A large police presence were seen on Sweetbriar Road in Westcotes area of Leicester this morning around 11.30am A man was assaulted in the street and a woman has been arrested. Residents were advised to stay indoors, and the air ambulance service attended, landing on a nearby school field, supported by EMAS ambulance crews. A full road closure was in place but has now been lifted. Police have not stated on the condition of the man’s injuries. Several properties in the road has been cordoned off to allow for forensic investigations. Police cordon in place Video by Leicester Media Online A spokesperson from Leicestershire Police said: A 51-year-old woman has been arrested after officers received a report of a man being assaulted in Sweetbriar Road, Leicester, this morning (Sunday 10 May). The incident was reported at 11.25am, the 33-year-old victim was taken to hospital for treatment. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm with intent and remains in police custody. The investigation is in its very early stages and officers are carrying out enquiries locally to establish the full circumstances. Police Forensic Officers at the scene Drone footage of the Police cordon in place, supplied by DJ Audits Drone footage supplied by DJ Audits If anyone has any information which may assist, they are asked to contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting crime number 26*269047. Detectives arriving at the scene Police Update 11/05/26 An investigation into an assault in Sweetbriar Road, Leicester, yesterday morning (Sunday 10 May), continues. The incident was reported at 11.25am, the 33-year-old victim was taken to hospital for treatment, he has since been discharged. A 51-year-old woman, who was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm with intent, has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. The scene was cordoned off while enquiries were ongoing at the scene but that has since been lifted. If anyone witnessed the incident or has any information which may assist, they are asked to contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting crime number 26*269047 Last updated 11/05/26 16:20

He is scheduled to go on trial this summer for the murder of De Montfort University student Khaleed Oladipo Khaleed Oladipo A young man accused of the fatal stabbing of a De Montfort University student appeared in court today (Monday, May 11). Khaleed Oladipo, 22, passed away after being stabbed on Oxford Street in Leicester city centre on Tuesday, (February 3). Following his death at Leicester Royal Infirmary, 18-year-old Harper Dennis was arrested and charged with his murder. Oxford Street - Leicester Media Online In Leicester Crown Court today, Dennis, from North Road, West Drayton, London, appeared before Judge Timothy Spencer KC. It was anticipated that he would plead not guilty to the murder charge. However, his barrister, Paul Prior, mentioned that Dennis had applied to change his solicitor. The judge stated he would consider allowing the change if it ensured the trial could proceed as planned. The trial is scheduled for three weeks starting on Monday, August 10. Dennis was remanded in custody. In addition to murder, Dennis is also facing two charges of possessing illegal weapons.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue crews are currently attending a property fire on Baxter Gate in Loughborough this afternoon. Please avoid the area and expect delays in the area. The fire is reported to be in a flat above a dessert shop on Baxter Gate. Multiple fire crews are on the scene. Police cordons and road closures are in place for motorists and pedestrians. The road closures are affecting local bus services in the area. Pictures supplied Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service received a call at 12.48pm, with crews from Shepshed, Birstall, Loughborough and Western fire stations all responding to the scene. Leicestershire Police and East Midlands Ambulance Service colleagues are also in attendance. People were initially reported at the scene, with the fire service confirming that all have since been accounted for. The cause of the fire is not yet known. The incident remains ongoing, with the fire service urging motorists to avoid the area and expect delays.

Pre Event news for "The Loughborough Colour Run" and sponsor shout out.... This is our biggest fundraising event, but also the costliest. We are still looking for sponsors for the event. We are hoping for around 600 participants on the day and have a good range of food vendors and entertainment. The Loughborough Colour Run will be held on Sunday 16th August at Charnwood College from 10am - 3/4pm Charnwood College, Thorpe Hill, Loughborough, LE114SQ Join us for the annual Loughborough Colour Run. This year it is set to be even bigger and better than ever before. We are introducing two starting waves to the event, please pick your wave time when booking. A fun-filled charity fun run, full of colour, inflatables, obstacles, challenges, and lots of happy smiling faces! A family-friendly fun run around the grounds of Charnwood College. Run, jog, or walk one or two laps of the 2.5km route. With inflatables, games, food vendors, and entertainment, this is more than just a fun run, but a summer's day full of happiness. Every participant will receive a special medal on completion. Come and join us for a great day out and help us raise crucial funds for Living Without Abuse. https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/TheLoughboroughColourRun2026 Event Poster please share on your socials

Rupert Matthews, Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, has unveiled ambitious plans to complement local policing with Street Wardens in market towns across the force area. Since this contract is set to go out for tender, the precise budget cannot be confirmed at this moment. Mr. Matthews has suggested that it might be valued around £2 million. Funded through his Crime Prevention Budget, Wardens will work at targeted times and locations, guided by crime data and public feedback, to maximise impact. Mr Matthews said there was strong evidence that Street Wardens provide a cost-effective, practical and community-focused response to the challenges facing market towns. Experiences from Middlesbrough, Newcastle, North Devon, and closer to home in Ashby, Melton Mowbray and Hinckley show they deter anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and low-level crime, freeing up police time by preventing issues before they escalate. Working in pairs, Wardens will be linked to local CCTV, equipped with body-worn cameras, and trained in de-escalation, safeguarding and mental health awareness skills. Performance data gathered in the first year will guide future expansion. A competitive tender process will begin shortly, with Wardens expected to be in place before Christmas. Rupert Matthews said: “From the outset, I have been clear that crime prevention is my overriding priority. By preventing crime, we reduce pressure not only on policing but also on other emergency services, the criminal justice system and probation, and social care . “I am confident that Street Wardens will play an effective role in strengthening crime prevention and boosting community confidence across our two counties. Evidence from areas where they are already established shows that their visible presence deters crime, while their ability to defuse tense situations helps reduce violence and anti-social behaviour. “I should emphasise that Street Wardens are not a replacement for police officers, but they are a valuable complement, easing demand on police resources. Residents consistently tell me they want a visible, reassuring presence on their streets, which prevents crime and helps them feel safe. “While I cannot stipulate where police officers are deployed or have any say over whether they should be called away from their patrol duties to other incidents, I can ensure that these Street Wardens remain a highly visible, reassuring presence in the areas where public feedback and data shows they are needed.” As this contract is due to go out to tender the exact budget cannot be confirmed at this time. Mr Matthews has indicated that it could be worth in the region of £2m. The successful Security Industry Authority (SIA) Licenced Contractor will be responsible for ensuring the appropriate vetting as well as the training of all wardens supplied by them. A member of the PCC’s team will scrutinise the delivery of the contract and performance data. Supplementary comment in response to query made last week. Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said: “The role of the Wardens is to prevent crime, rather than respond after it has occurred. Preventing crime reduces demand not only on policing but across other public services. “My responsibilities include commissioning services that improve community safety, and Street Wardens have already demonstrated their effectiveness in this area. Under legislation, PCCs do not have operational control over police officers or staff; this is rightly the responsibility of the Chief Constable, and I fully respect that distinction. “The public value a visible and reassuring presence in their communities. Wardens will become familiar local figures and, importantly, will not be redeployed to support policing in other areas. “Finally, PCCs are due to be abolished in 2028. It would therefore be imprudent to ringfence funding for police officers - something I am unable to do anyway - given the uncertainty surrounding the future structure of policing. The Government’s plans for potential ‘super-force’ mergers remain unclear, and police officers cannot be recruited or released at will.” The successful Security Industry Authority (SIA) Licenced Contractor will be responsible for ensuring the appropriate vetting as well as the training of all wardens supplied by them. A member of the PCC’s team will scrutinise the delivery of the contract and performance data.