Three people have been charged with affray following a large fight that occurred on Boxing Day last year (26 December). They are: Chace Griffin, 30, of Thurncourt Road, Thurncourt. Spencer Fowler, 22, of Flamborough Road, Thurncourt. He has also been charged with one count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Sonny Godwin, 22, of Kinross Avenue, Thurncourt. He has also been charged with assaulting a person thereby occasioning them actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. They are due to appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Wednesday 30 September). The charges relate to a report of a fight inside licensed premises in Grantham Road, Netherhall, which had spilled out into the street. A 35-year-old man who was also arrested in connection with the incident was released with no further action. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 11:51 29/09/2026

Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward following a robbery in the Stoneygate area of Leicester. Police were called to Guilford Street shortly before 6pm on Friday (25 September) following a report a man in his 20s had been attacked by a group of men. It was reported he had been punched in the face, causing him to fall to the ground, when he was then kicked. The victim was taken to hospital with serious head and facial injuries and is continuing to receive treatment. Following initial enquiries, a 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiring to cause grievous bodily harm with intent. He has since been released on bail. Today (Tuesday 29 September), a 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in custody. Detective Constable Caitlin Penfold, the investigating officer, said: “I’m appealing for anyone who was in the area on Friday evening and saw a group of men to get in touch. “I’m particularly keen to speak to anyone who captured anything on a doorbell camera, dashcam or CCTV. Anything you’re able to provide, no matter how insignificant you think it is, could help.” 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*577835. Alternatively call 101. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 14:16 29/09/2026

Leicester City Council says it is well on the way to achieving its target of fitting 30 community public access defibrillators (CPADs) community buildings across the city. The lifesaving equipment is being installed on the outside of buildings as part of the Heartshield project - a partnership between the council’s public health team, the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT), and East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS). They are in addition to the 121 CPADs already in place in the city, and are being fitted in areas where, through the Heartshield project, public health data has identified gaps in provision. Local people, councillors and representatives of the JHMT gathered at Wesley Hall Community Centre to celebrate the latest CPAD installation, which makes this vital equipment available for use day or night. The announcement comes in the run-up to SADS Awareness Week (28 Sept-4 Oct), an annual event organised by the JHMT in collaboration with University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust. SADS stands for sudden arrhythmic death syndrome, a collective term for a group of deadly genetic heart conditions which cause a disturbance with the heart rhythm and can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. The JHMT was set up after Rothley teenager Joe Humphries died from SADS in October 2012, while out on a training jog near his home. Every week in the UK, 12 young people aged12-35 die due to undiagnosed genetic heart conditions like SADS.     SADS Awareness Week is held every year around the anniversary of Joe’s untimely death, to remind and educate professionals working in healthcare and sports-related fields, and parents and carers of young people about the dangers of undiagnosed heart conditions like SADS. Cllr Vi Dempster, asst city mayor for public health said: “Around 30,000 people in Leicester live with at least one cardiovascular condition, so it’s important we do everything we can to make this life-saving equipment available. “Thanks to the support of the JHMT we already have defibrillators fitted in all of our primary and secondary schools and in our leisure centres. Work to fit them on the external walls of buildings where we know there are gaps in provision is progressing very well, with 18 installed since SADS Awareness Week last year.” Dr Mike Ferguson, JHMT medical trustee said: “Every year in the UK there are 60,000 cardiac arrests - that’s one every 10 minutes. Half of these are witnessed, yet only 10% of people survive. “It can happen to anyone, of any age, at any time and anywhere, including young people due to inherited heart conditions like SADS. It’s therefore vitally important to make defibrillators publicly accessible, and to ensure people in all communities know how to use them, and how to give CPR.” A number of the CPADs in Leicester have been installed thanks to the support of former Lord Mayor Cllr Teresa Aldred, who chose the JHMT as her mayoral charity last year. Five have recently been fitted thanks to an allocation of community ward funding by local councillors. More information about the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust and activities happening as part of SADS week can be found on the JHMT website.

Work is due to begin to replace the heating system at Loughborough Leisure Centre to help the facility move towards becoming net zero. The centre, owned by Charnwood Borough Council, is benefitting from £2.7 million from the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme which aims to reduce emissions from public sector buildings. Loughborough Leisure Centre and, inset, a Net Zero Pod shown at another leisure centre The funding is being used to replace the centre’s gas boilers with air source heat pumps, which will lower carbon emissions by approximately 452 tonnes a year and assist towards the leisure centre’s journey to becoming net zero. It is also expected to bring utility bills at the leisure centre down by around £66,000 a year. Work also took place last year to install 216 solar panels to the leisure centre’s roof, thanks to a grant from the Sport England Swimming Pool Support Fund worth £235,000. Cllr Beverley Gray, the Council’s Lead Member for Climate Action and Net Zero, said: “I am really pleased that work is due to begin to improve the heating system at Loughborough Leisure Centre to help us cut costs and reduce carbon emissions for years to come. “Leisure centres require a lot of energy to operate, from keeping the swimming pool warm to powering changing rooms and gym facilities. This new heating system can support all of these functions while dramatically cutting carbon emissions. “We are already seeing the benefit of the solar panels which were added to the building and I look forward to the project progressing.” Cllr Anne Gray, the Council’s Lead Member for Waste, Open Spaces and Leisure Facilities, said: “With rising energy costs over the past few years, this investment and improvement in Loughborough Leisure Centre will be vital moving forward. “We welcome thousands of visitors to our three leisure centres in Charnwood, and this will maintain the high standard of facilities on offer.” As part of the project, all gas boilers are being removed and a new, separate plant room will be installed. This will be integrated into the building with updated heating components. Roof, cavity wall and pipework insulation will be installed alongside a new energy management system. The work is due to start week commencing 28 September 2026 and is expected to be completed in spring 2027. Loughborough Leisure Centre will remain open throughout the work and users will continue to have access to all facilities. Around nine parking spaces will be unavailable in the car park while work is undertaken. The disabled parking spaces will be moved in the car park to accommodate the work, however the number of these spaces will not be reduced. The work on the heating system is being carried out by award-winning renewable technology company, Leisure Energy Limited. Mike Worsnop, Acting Managing Director at Leisure Energy, said: “Leisure Energy are proud to be supporting Charnwood Borough Council as principal designer and contractor for the energy works at Loughborough Leisure Centre. “Following our involvement in helping to secure the funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, the project has now reached an exciting milestone with the commencement of on-site works. The installation of our Net Zero Pod® marks a significant step forward in delivering sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions for the facility.” As well as the Government funding, the Council is investing £400,000 into the project, bringing the total project funding to over £3 million. The addition of 216 solar panels last year has led to a reduction of 36.2 tonnes of CO2 per year – the equivalent of the annual emissions of 20 average homes. The solar panels are capable of delivering up to 91.8kW of energy and the utility cost savings are expected to cover the investment within four years. In total, 99% of the generated power will be fed straight to the leisure centre with one per cent fed back into the grid. Two pool covers were also installed on the 25-metre swimming pool and smaller training pool which helps retain heat and reduce the amount of energy used. The Council declared a climate emergency in November 2023 and committed to working with partners and communities to reduce carbon emissions and help limit global warming. The Council’s leisure centres are operated by More Leisure. Charnwood Borough Council News

Vaughan Way in the city is currently closed due to a serious Police incident. A large Police presence is at the scene, Vaughan Way is closed at the junction with Highcross Street. Several Police cordons are currently in place. Please avoid the area if possible. Heavy traffic reported in the surrounding areas. Local diversions are in place. We have contacted Leicestershire Police for more information on this incident. UPDATE 27/09/26 09:30 Four people injured after hit and run collision in city centre Police have released the following statement. Detectives are investigating after four pedestrians were injured in the city centre when they were involved in a collision yesterday evening (Saturday 26 September). The collision occurred on Vaughan Way at 10.12pm and involved a silver vehicle. The pedestrians were crossing the road at a crossing towards the junction with Highcross Street; three of the men were taken to hospital where they are undergoing treatment for serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop at the scene, but following enquiries a 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while over the prescribed limit for alcohol, and causing grievous bodily harm and remain in police custody. A vehicle believed to be involved in the collision has been identified and enquiries are ongoing. There were a number of people in the area at the time of the incident and we would urge anyone who witnessed the collision or any party beforehand to make contact. If anyone was driving in the area and captured anything relevant on dashcam we would like to speak to you. This is being treated as an isolated incident and officers will be conducting enquiries in the area, we ask that people do not speculate about the circumstances and only share factual information from genuine sources. Vaughan Way was closed while enquiries were ongoing but has since been reopened. Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting crime number 26*580044. Video & Pictures by Leicester Media Online ©️2026

Detectives are investigating after four pedestrians were injured in the city centre when they were involved in a collision yesterday evening (Saturday 26 September). The collision occurred on Vaughan Way at 10.12pm and involved a silver vehicle. The pedestrians were crossing the road at a crossing towards the junction with Highcross Street; three of the men were taken to hospital where they are undergoing treatment for serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop at the scene, but following enquiries a 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while over the prescribed limit for alcohol, and causing grievous bodily harm and remain in police custody. A vehicle believed to be involved in the collision has been identified and enquiries are ongoing. There were a number of people in the area at the time of the incident and we would urge anyone who witnessed the collision or any party beforehand to make contact. If anyone was driving in the area and captured anything relevant on dashcam we would like to speak to you. This is being treated as an isolated incident and officers will be conducting enquiries in the area, we ask that people do not speculate about the circumstances and only share factual information from genuine sources. Vaughan Way was closed while enquiries were ongoing but has since been reopened. Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting crime number 26*580044. Video and Pictures by Leicester Media Online

Police confirm just before 5.30pm this evening (Saturday 26 September) a motorcyclist was involved in a collision with a Land Rover Defender on the B4114 (King Edward Avenue) in Narborough. The rider sustained serious injuries believed not to be life threatening and is being treated in hospital. The driver of the Defender was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Local road closures are in place and motorists are being advised to avoid the area and seek an alternative route. Shortly before the collision a police vehicle was on its way to an unrelated incident when it came across the motorcycle. The rider accelerated and rode off at speed. The police officer followed briefly but withdrew and was not involved in the collision. From initial enquiries it’s believed that the motorcycle may have been stolen and the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation. If anyone witnessed what happened or saw the vehicles beforehand, they are encouraged to get in touch. Contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting incident 542 of 26 September.

A road closure is in place on B4114 King Edward Avenue in Narborough tonight. The road is currently closed in the county-bound direction, between the junctions of Leicester Road and Desford Road. This collision involves a motorcyclist and a 4x4. We have no details on any injuries at this time. This road closure is expected to be in place for some time; collision investigators have been called to the scene. Please find alternative routes. We have contacted Leicestershire Police for more information on this incident. Police update 23:00 Police can confirm just before 5.30pm this evening (Saturday 26 September) a motorcyclist was involved in a collision with a Land Rover Defender on the B4114 (King Edward Avenue) in Narborough. The rider sustained serious injuries and is being treated in hospital. The driver of the Defender was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Local road closures are in place and motorists are being advised to avoid the area and seek an alternative route. Shortly before the collision a police vehicle was on its way to an unrelated incident when it came across the motorcycle. The rider accelerated and rode off at speed. The police officer followed briefly but withdrew and was not involved in the collision. From initial enquiries it’s believed that the motorcycle may have been stolen and the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation. If anyone witnessed what happened or saw the vehicles beforehand, they are encouraged to get in touch. Contact 101 or report via www.leics.police.uk, quoting incident 542 of 26 September. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

For all those of you who are interested in becoming a Wholetime Firefighter with us, the wait is almost over! We'll be opening recruitment for Wholetime very soon... Keep an eye on our socials for more information, and sign-up to our job alerts if you haven't already: https://orlo.uk/PAHOK For information visit Careers | Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service 26/09/26

Multiple fire crews are currently at Bruntingthorpe Airfield tackling a large fire. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service have seven appliances in attendance, plus an aerial ladder platform. There is a large plume of smoke coming from the area - local residents should close windows and doors. Update 10:45 Ten fire appliances are now at the scene. Advice to all local residents in nearby villages—Gilmorton, Peatling Parva, Bruntingthorpe, Kimcote, Walton: avoid smoke inhalation by staying indoors and closing windows and doors. Pictures Credit LFRS Leicestershire Fire and Rescue service area manager, Graham Vaux, said: "We were called this morning just after 8am to a fire in a warehouse that was used as a spray booth. "Initially, six fire engines attended but due to the high fire loading and the chemicals that were involved in the fire we increased our attendance to 10 fire engines, two aerial appliances, a hazardous support unit. "We're attacking the fire from three sectors and it is largely under control, however there is still smoke being released which is reducing. "We are advising residents to keep their windows and doors closed." 25/09/26 09:00

Roll up, roll up… the circus is coming to town next month! Russells International Circus will be making its first visit to Loughborough from Wednesday, 14 October, to Sunday, 18 October 2026. Russells International Circus is coming to Southfields Park in Loughborough next month. (Photo credit: Andrew Payne) Southfields Park will be the venue for multiple shows over the five days, including two on the Saturday. Those attending are promised a breathtaking two-hour performance jam-packed with mesmerising aerial displays, jaw-dropping stunts, world-class comedy and much, much more. Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for housing, economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: "We are delighted to welcome Russells International Circus to Loughborough for the first time. "Events like this bring people together, create a vibrant atmosphere in the town and provide fantastic entertainment for residents and visitors of all ages. It also attracts visitors to the area and supports the local economy. "We look forward to seeing Southfields Park transformed into a big top spectacular next month." Dates and start times of the performances are as follows: Wednesday, 14 October - 6pm Thursday, 15 October - 6pm Friday, 16 October - 6pm Saturday, 17 October - 3pm and 6pm Sunday, 18 October - midday Tickets can be booked online now. When booking, using the discount code LOUGH26 will give people 50% off tickets purchased through the website for performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Southfields Park, which is operated by Charnwood Borough Council, will remain open to the public whilst the circus is operating. Book tickets

A major initiative to reduce knife crime and serious violence in Leicester is moving into its next phase after receiving Home Office approval for a series of targeted interventions. Known locally as Project Guardian, the programme focuses on protecting communities, preventing violence and safeguarding young people in areas where knife crime and serious violence are most concentrated. Using three years of police data, four priority areas have been identified: Leicester City Centre Bede Park Rally/Tudor Road Highfields/Evington Road Project Guardian brings together neighbourhood policing teams, problem-solving officers, analysts, researchers, the Violence Reduction Network and a range of local partners to better understand the factors contributing to violence in these areas and develop tailored responses. The project uses an evidence-based problem-solving approach, alongside targeted patrols, community engagement and prevention activities designed to address the root causes of violence and improve community safety. The first stage of the programme focused on gathering and analysing information from police, partners and local communities to build a detailed picture of the challenges facing each area. This work has helped shape four local action plans, which were approved by the Home Office in September. While this planning work has been taking place, officers have continued targeted patrol activity across the four locations. Early results have already seen 25 weapons seized and 21 arrests made. Partners are also supporting a range of initiatives, including community outreach, diversionary activities for young people, environmental improvements, CCTV opportunities and other place-based prevention measures. Funding for the programme is being provided through the Home Office's Knife Crime Concentration Fund. As well as supporting targeted policing activity, the funding is helping to deliver longer-term solutions that can become part of everyday neighbourhood policing and partnership work. By combining enforcement, prevention and partnership working, Project Guardian aims to deliver lasting reductions in knife crime and serious violence while helping to make communities across Leicester safer. Leicestershire Police News - Published: 10:11 25/09/2026