People are being invited to find out more about a £2.5 million programme of street improvements planned for Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. The city council is inviting local residents and businesses to ask questions about proposals for Queen Street, Southampton Street and the St George Street link, before work begins in September. The council is hosting an information session that will take place at City Hall on Charles Street, from 1pm to 5.30pm on Wednesday 12 August. It will give people the chance to view the plans, discuss the work and ask questions directly of the project team. Funded through the Local Transport Plan, the scheme includes new trees and planting, improved lighting, upgraded footways and road surfaces, drainage improvements and other measures designed to improve safety, accessibility and the overall appearance of the area. Cllr Geoff Whittle, asst city mayor for environment and transport said: “Leicester’s Cultural Quarter is already a vibrant part of the city. Home to a world class theatre, independent cinema, great bars, restaurants and live music venues, it attracts people from all over the city, county and beyond. “This new investment will enhance the area’s unique character, support local businesses and make it easier for people to get around and enjoy everything the Cultural Quarter has to offer. “I encourage anyone with an interest in the area to come along to the engagement session, find out more about the plans and share their views.” The council’s city highways team will be carrying out the works, which are expected to take around seven months to complete. Every effort will be made to minimise disruption and maintain access for businesses and pedestrians wherever possible. The session will take place in room G.03, City Hall, 115 Charles Street, Leicester LE1 1FZ LCC News - Published on Friday, August 7, 2026

Enjoy Bonfire Night at Leicester’s biggest fireworks event at Abbey Park on Saturday 7 November. Watch the traditional bonfire and enjoy two spectacular fireworks displays, along with live entertainment, funfair, delicious street food, licensed bar and a fantastic, safe atmosphere for all the family. It’s a great night out for families and friends! Location : Abbey Park, Leicester, LE4 5AQ Time : 17:00, Saturday 7 November 2026 Save Up To 50% – Book early to get the best price and secure your place. Ticket Prices Early Bird: tickets available until 31 August. Adult £7.50
 Family (2 adults, 2 children) £25
 Group (up to 4 people) £25
 Concessions & under 16s £6.50 Advance: tickets available until 6 November. Adult £10
 Family (2 adults, 2 children) £28
 Group (up to 4 people) £30
 Concessions & under 16s £8 On The Day: tickets available online until 7 November at 7.30pm. Adult £15
 Family (2 adults, 2 children) £40
 Group (up to 4 people) £40
 Concessions & under 16s £10 Children aged 4 and under go free. Event Timings Gates open: 5pm Food and funfair: from 5pm
 Quiet fireworks: 6.45pm shorter and quieter for children and those who prefer less noise. Main fireworks: 8pm big fireworks show set to music with a countdown. Event ends: 9pm No parking is available at Abbey Park or nearby streets. Please walk, cycle, or use public transport if possible. Bike parking is available. For travel info visit www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk A wheelchair viewing area is available. Blue Badge parking is limited and must be booked in advance by emailing festivals@leicester.gov.uk For further information follow @leicesterfestivals on Facebook & Instagram.

The Leicester Food Festival 2026 is taking place this weekend, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August at Abbey Park, offering a vibrant mix of food, drinks, live music, and family-friendly activities. The sun is out and the event is hotting up along with the freshly baked sausage rolls. Come and see for yourself. Here are some early pictures. Find out more Please see below for all FAQ's WHERE IS THE ENTRANCE? There is only 1 entrance to the festival on Charter Street Footbridge, LE1 3UD. PLEASE PLAN YOUR JOURNEY ACCORDINGLY. There are signs around the park pointing you in the right direction of the entrance, otherwise please use the postcode on google maps or what3words.com ASSET.BOUNTY.KNEE WHERE CAN I PARK? There is no dedicated parking for the event however there are many car parks and public transport links nearby. Abbey Park Car Parks will be fully operational during the event including any disability bays. CAN I BUY A TICKET ON ENTRY? Yes, a limited number of extra tickets will be available on the day of the event, but we encourage all attendees to purchase tickets in advance via See Tickets. CAN I BRING IN FOOD & DRINK No, except 1 small bottle of water per person is allowed onsite, except baby food. There is a public water refill tap onsite, fully stocked bars and food stalls serving hot and cold food. IS THERE AN AGE RESTRICTION? No, all are welcome, this is a family event for all. Valid Photo ID will be required to purchase alcohol. We have a challenge 25 policy. ARE THERE TOILETS AND BABY CHANGING FACILITIES? Yes, there are toilets, accessible toilets and baby change facilities for use at the event. CAN WE LEAVE AND COME BACK IN? There is a no re-entry policy. Please arrive with the in mind. CAN I BRING A BAG? Yes. All bags are subject to searches on entry. WHAT TICKETS DO WE NEED? Each person attending the festival needs a ticket, under 5's are free but a ticket is still needed in advance. Free carer tickets can be also be requested if required with documentation via See Tickets. WHAT TIME DOES IT START AND FINISH? Gates open at 11am -10pm on Saturday 8th & 11am -530pm on Sunday 9th. Live Music, entertainment and activities are scheduled from start to finish. Please refer to the Instagram Page @theleicesterfestival for all line up and scheduled information. CAN WE BRING A CHAIR? Yes, there are lots of benches and deckchairs, but additional camping chairs & blankets are welcome. No gazebos or camping. WHAT IS INCLUDED IN MY TICKET PRICE? Everything at the festival is included within your ticket price apart from a small charge for fairground rides, the Puppy Cuddling Experience, personal purchases and food & drink. EVENT ENTRY - Terms & Conditions - The organiser reserves the right to refuse admission. - No Dogs or pets to be brought onsite - All attendees may be subject to security searches upon entry. - Prohibited items including weapons, illegal substances, any glass, fireworks, flares, laser pens, and dangerous items are not permitted. - Any prohibited items will be confiscated and WILL result in refusal of entry. Behaviour - Attendees must behave responsibly and respectfully towards staff, performers, and other guests at all times. - Aggressive, abusive, discriminatory, or anti-social behaviour WILL result in removal from the event without refund. Alcohol - The venue operates a Challenge 25 policy at the bars. - Intoxicated persons WILL be refused entry and removed from the event. Photography & Filming - By entering the event, attendees consent to photography, filming, and live broadcasting which may be used for promotional purposes. Event Changes - Event timings, entertainment schedules, and activities may be changed without notice. - The organiser reserves the right to amend or cancel the event where necessary due to circumstances beyond its control. Liability - Attendees enter the event at their own risk. - The organiser accepts no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings. Weather - The event will proceed in most weather conditions unless deemed unsafe by organisers or relevant authorities. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward after a pedestrian was seriously injured in Melton Mowbray yesterday (Thursday 6 August). Police were called to Leicester Road, close to the junction with Dalby Road just before 4pm following a report of a collision involving a red tractor which was towing a trailer and a pedestrian. It was reported the tractor had also collided with a white Toyota Proace van which was behind it following the collision. The pedestrian – a man in his 20s – was taken to hospital, where he is continuing to receive treatment. No-one was arrested in connection with the incident. As the pedestrian had been in contact with police prior to the collision occurring, a mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Detective Sergeant Charlotte Mee, from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), said: “This incident happened close to the town centre at a time when people will have been travelling home from work. I’d therefore like to speak to anyone who saw what happened and can assist with our enquiries. “This includes anyone who witnessed the collision, saw the tractor and pedestrian beforehand or who has dashcam footage. “Anything you’re able to provide us could help our investigation.” You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/making-a-road-traffic-incident-report/ and quoting incident 477 of 6 August. Alternatively call 101. Leicestershire Police - Published: 16:25 07/08/2026

Loughborough Pride will once again fill Queen's Park with ‘love, colour and community’ on Saturday 22nd August 2026, as the town's LGBTQIA+ residents, allies and supporters come together for a day of celebration, queer visibility and solidarity. Running from 11:00am to 7:00pm, this year's “Picnic in the Park” is free to attend and open to everyone – all identities and all allies. New for 2026, the day begins with Loughborough Pride's first-ever March, departing Fearon Hall at 11:00am and marching to Queen's Park, bringing Pride into the heart of the town centre. The official opening of Loughborough Pride takes place at 11:45am with the Mayor (Cllr Colin Hamilton) and Mayoress of Charnwood (Mrs Emma Lowe) officiating. Once in the park, attendees can expect live performances, local artists, community stalls, food and entertainment for all ages, as the event returns “bigger and better” for what organisers are calling the town's largest LGBTQ+ celebration yet. Last year, they welcomed over 3000 people across the day. The Pride Picnic Blanket that was made by for the LGBTQIA+ community from the community groups at Fearon Hall will also be on display throughout the day of Pride at Charnwood Museum, so organisers urge you to go along to view and take a moment to watch a video about the creation of the blanket, which is now an integral part of the town’s queer history. A Message More Urgent Than Ever Loughborough Pride's return comes at a moment organisers describe as critical for LGBTQIA+ rights both in the UK and globally, with hard-won protections and advancements increasingly under pressure. The event's organisers – all of whom are volunteers - are using this year's Pride to send a clear message: visibility, solidarity and celebration matter now more than ever — and Loughborough and Charnwood remain a welcoming, tolerant place to call home. Ashley Poucher, Director and Project Manager of Loughborough Pride, said: “We're proud to bring Pride back to Queen's Park for a second year, and this year it feels more important than ever. Across the country and beyond, we're seeing rights and protections that took decades to win come under threat again. That makes days like this — where our community can stand together, be seen and be celebrated — absolutely vital. What I love about Loughborough is that, time and again, this town and this borough show up as tolerant, welcoming and proud to stand with us. Pride isn't just a celebration; this year, more than most, it's also a statement. Whoever you are, whoever you love, you are welcome here, and we will keep standing together for as long as it takes.” Anyone wishing to continue the celebrations after the park closes is welcome to join Pride events at LGBTQ+-friendly venues across the town into the evening, including the official Pride After Dark party at The Swan In The Rushes and The Tap & Clapper, from 19:30. Kinch bus will be offering a complimentary shuttle service from outside Charnwood Museum from 19:00.

Sat 5th September 2026 Leicester Pride set to welcome record crowds as region becomes home to more Pride celebrations than anywhere else in the country. Leicester Pride is preparing to welcome more than 20,000 people to the city this summer as organisers gear up for what promises to be one of the largest Pride celebrations in the UK and a powerful showcase of why the Midlands is increasingly regarded as the nation's Pride Capital. The annual event – which takes place Saturday 5th September – has grown into the Midlands' largest free-to-access, one-day Pride festival, will bring together members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, families, businesses and visitors from across the region and beyond for a day of celebration, visibility and inclusion. As Pride events continue to flourish across towns and cities throughout the Midlands – including Hinckley, Ashby, Loughborough and Coalville - the region has emerged as the UK's Pride heartland, hosting an unrivalled network of celebrations that champion diversity, equality and community spirit. Leicester Pride sits proudly at the centre of that movement, attracting thousands of visitors each year and helping to position the city as one of the country's most welcoming and inclusive destinations. Martyn Parker, Chair of Leicester Pride, said: "The Midlands has become a powerhouse for Pride celebrations and Leicester Pride is proud to play a leading role in that story. "Every year we welcome people from right across the region and beyond who come together to celebrate diversity, support one another and show that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued and accepted. "With more than 20,000 people expected to attend this year's event, Leicester Pride continues to demonstrate the strength, resilience and vibrancy of our community. We are looking forward to delivering a fantastic day that showcases everything that makes Leicester such a diverse, welcoming and inclusive city." The event will feature a colourful city-centre parade alongside live music, entertainment, community organisations, food and drink vendors, family-friendly activities and opportunities for people to connect with local support groups and services. Leicester Pride's growing popularity reflects the increasing importance of regional Pride events, offering safe and inclusive spaces for people to celebrate their identities while supporting local communities and economies. The festival also delivers a significant boost for Leicester's hospitality, retail and visitor economy, attracting thousands of people into the city centre and reinforcing Leicester's reputation as one of the most diverse cities in the UK. Picture credit Stuart Gutteridge Leicester Pride Team Further announcements regarding performers, attractions and event details will be made in the coming weeks. Follow Leicester Pride Facebook page click here Audio version of this post Leicester Pride Guide 2026 CLICK BUTTON BELOW TO DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE BOOK The Leicester Pride event is on Saturday 5th September 2026 at Abbey Park Leicester 1pm – 9pm – Free entry Click on logo for web site Leicester Media is proud to be the official media partner for Leicester Pride Watch last year's video below

Officers from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) have arrested a man in connection with an investigation into support of a proscribed organisation. A 27-year-old man from Wigston, Leicestershire, was arrested today (Monday) on suspicion of expressing support for a proscribed organisation (Daesh), contrary to section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Officers are currently searching a residential property in Wigston in connection with the investigation. The operation, which was led by CTPSE, was supported by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing East Midlands and Leicestershire Police. Neighbourhood Policing Commander for Wigston, Inspector Chris Day, from Leicestershire Police, said: "I appreciate arrests of this nature may cause some people in the community to feel concerned, however this arrest today took place as part of a pre-planned operation. We are working to support our colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing as their investigation continues. "People in the local area may notice an increased police presence while search activity takes place. If anyone has any concerns, or information they think may be relevant, please speak to an officer." The arrested man is currently in police custody. If you have any concerns about someone you know expressing extreme views or hatred, you can report them to www.gov.uk/act or call the Anti-Terrorism Hotline on 0800 789 321. You can also report any offences to your local police force by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. Action counters terrorism. Reporting can save lives. POLICE UPDATE Update (Wednesday 5 August): The man arrested has since been released on bail. The investigation remains ongoing. Leicestershire Police News Published : 16:49 03/08/2026

NEXT STOP WIGSTON Don't forget that The Mini Fire Engine will be operational and taking passengers when Wigston Fire Station opens its doors on Sunday, August 9th for what will no doubt be a fantastic day of rides, live demonstrations and all sorts of family fun. There will also be food stalls, a bouncy castle, home fire safety advice and the opportunity to meet your local emergency services. Make sure you're on board with the timetable... Sunday 9th August 10:00am – 3:00pm Wigston Fire Station, Bull Head Street, Wigston LE18 1PG Please help us spread the word by liking, commenting and sharing this post. Every share helps us reach more people in our community. We can't wait to see you there! find out more.

Leicester’s City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby says the city council will ensure a comedy festival takes place in the city next year. This follows news that the Big Difference Company, organisers of the festival for more than 30 years, has become insolvent and ceased trading. Peter Soulsby said: “We’re very sorry that the Big Difference Company has gone into liquidation, and we understand that this is a difficult time for its staff and all of those affected. “The Leicester Comedy Festival has been a hugely important part of Leicester’s cultural calendar, bringing thousands of visitors to the city every year, and with them a big boost to our economy. "While of course we can’t pick up the debts of a registered charity, we do want to ensure the festival goes ahead next year. “We will therefore be working with local promoters, venues, and other stakeholders, and drawing upon the expertise of our own festivals and De Montfort Hall teams, to ensure that an interim comedy festival programme can take place in 2027, while we work to secure a sustainable operation for the long-term.” LCC News

The Great Central Railway is inviting visitors to enjoy one of Britain's favourite meals while witnessing one of the most remarkable astronomical events of the decade during a special Fish & Eclipse evening on Wednesday 12 August 2026. Departing from Loughborough Central at 6.45pm, the heritage steam train will travel to the spectacular Swithland Viaduct overlooking Swithland Reservoir, where passengers will be perfectly placed to experience the solar eclipse in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside. Guests will enjoy a freshly prepared fish and chip supper during the journey before the train pauses at the ideal moment to take in the eclipse. For those looking to make the evening even more memorable, the railway is offering an exclusive Heritage Veranda Experience. Limited to just 24 guests, this premium ticket includes a fish and chip supper, a complimentary glass of fizz and access to the beautifully restored open-ended veranda, providing an exceptional vantage point for eclipse viewing. Ticket prices start at just £43 including fish and chip supper and your ticket entitles you to travel on all GCR trains that day rising to £53 for the Heritage Veranda Experience Malcolm Holmes, General Manager at Great Central Railway said: "Opportunities to experience a solar eclipse from a heritage steam railway don't come along very rarely and we wondered how we could best enjoy it with our visitors. Combining that with Britain's favourite supper and the beautiful setting of Swithland Reservoir makes for a truly memorable evening.” Tickets are available to book now via the Great Central Railway website at

Andy Creeden, Lead Chest Reporting Radiographer at UHL, has been awarded a Fellowship of the College of Radiographers (FCR) – the highest honour bestowed by the College of Radiographers. The Fellowship is an honorary title awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the radiography profession and to the advancement of the Society and College of Radiographers. It is regarded as the College’s highest accolade, with no more than five Fellowships awarded each year. Andy received the award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession at both regional and national levels. He was nominated for his work as the inaugural Chair of the Diagnostic Imaging Advisory Group, his contribution to the development of national guidance on radiographer-led nasogastric (NG) tube pathways and Preliminary Clinical Evaluation, and his role in organising a series of national webinars focused on Advanced Practice. The Fellowship was presented during the Society and College of Radiographers’ Presidential Inauguration Ceremony at the Zoology Museum in Cambridge. The event marked the inauguration of the incoming President and celebrated recipients of the Society and College’s prestigious Fellowships. During the ceremony, the Society of Radiographers Chief Executive, Richard Evans awarded Fellowships of the College of Radiographers to five members. Andy was recognised specifically for his work on the NG tube pathway for radiographers and for his leadership as the inaugural Chair of the Diagnostic Imaging Advisory Group. His work has helped advance radiographic practice nationally, supporting both professional development and improvements in patient care. Speaking about the award, Andy said: “Receiving a Fellowship of the College of Radiographers is a tremendous honour. It is especially meaningful to be recognised by your peers and professional body for work that has focused on advancing radiography practice and improving patient care. I have been fortunate to work with inspiring colleagues at UHL and across the profession, and this recognition is also a reflection of their support and collaboration.” The Fellowship of the College of Radiographers recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the science and practice of diagnostic imaging or radiotherapy, professional leadership, education, research, workforce development and the welfare of colleagues. UHL News - 5 August 2026

Students travelling in Leicester will benefit from cheaper and more flexible bus travel thanks to the launch of new all-operator student tickets across the Leicester Buses network. The new Flexi student tickets, available from 1 August, allow unlimited travel on participating Leicester Buses services, giving students the freedom to use whichever bus operator best suits their journey without paying extra. The range includes a four-week ticket costing £68 and an annual ticket costing £575. The annual pass is £37 cheaper than last year's equivalent ticket. Student tickets that are only valid for one bus operator will no longer be available as Leicester Buses continues its move towards a simpler "One network, one ticket" approach. The student tickets are being introduced following the success of discounted flexi fares for adults, children and families earlier this year, and form part of wider efforts to make public transport easier to use and better value for passengers across the city. Leicester Buses is a partnership between Leicester City Council and local bus operators that is working to create a more integrated network through shared ticketing, co-ordinated timetables, improved passenger information and investment in cleaner vehicles and infrastructure. It is one of the UK's largest enhanced bus partnerships, bringing together the city council and local operators to provide a more joined-up public transport network. Assistant city mayor for environment and transport, Councillor Geoff Whittle, said: "We want bus travel in Leicester to be simple, affordable and accessible for everyone. These new student tickets mean young people can travel across the network using a single ticket, regardless of which participating operator they use. It removes unnecessary complexity, gives students greater flexibility and helps keep travel costs down. "Alongside our discounted fares for adults, children and families, this is another important step towards delivering a bus network that is easier to understand and offers excellent value for passengers." The partnership is also continuing to offer its £6.40 Flexi Family ticket during the school holidays, providing unlimited travel for up to two adults and three children across participating services. The discounted ticket offers savings of around 20% and is designed to help make family days out more affordable. In addition, children can travel free on participating Leicester Buses services throughout August as part of the UK Government's Great British Summer Savings initiative. Student Flexi tickets are available through participating operators' websites. For full details of ticket options and where to buy, visit www.leicesterbuses.co.uk LCC News Published on Tuesday, August 4, 2026