The National Space Centre is reinventing the traditional murder mystery night with Cosmic Crime & Dine, an immersive after-hours experience that invites guests to become investigators beneath its towering rockets on Friday 30 October 2026. Taking the familiar appeal of a whodunnit beyond the dinner table and into the galleries, the adults-only evening combines hands-on forensic challenges alongside a themed three-course dinner in an experience that puts them well and truly at the heart of the investigation. Guests do more than watch a mystery unfold and guess who did it. They explore a crime scene, examine evidence and try investigative techniques for themselves, working together as the story develops around them. Dining becomes part of the investigation, with clues to discuss and theories to test over dinner. Guided by a retired Scotland Yard investigator, guests will discover techniques used in real criminal investigations and put their own powers of observation to the test. Challenges include analysing fingerprints, exploring how witness descriptions become Photofit images and searching a crime scene for evidence. For anyone who enjoys a quiz, an escape room or a good detective story, the evening offers an opportunity to put that curiosity into practice. Friends, colleagues and couples can pool their ideas and debate the evidence over dinner, with each discovery bringing them closer to the answer. Malika Andress, Head of Marketing at the National Space Centre, said: “We’re taking the traditional murder mystery night and giving guests a much more hands-on role. You become an scientific investigator, searching for evidence and trying forensic techniques for yourself, with a retired Scotland Yard investigator to guide you. It’s an evening for curious minds, whether you love true crime podcasts, escape rooms or detective stories. The mystery and dinner are all part of one experience, and exploring the galleries after hours with rockets and spacecraft above you gives you a setting unlike any ordinary night out.” The themed three-course meal forms part of the evening’s unfolding story, giving guests time to share their findings before their deductions are tested as the investigation reaches its conclusion. Individual and small-group bookings can share tables with fellow investigators, making the evening an option for guests coming on their own as well as those bringing company. Groups can also reserve dedicated tables for eight or 12 investigators. Cosmic Crime & Dine takes place at the National Space Centre, Leicester, on Friday 30 October 2026 for guests aged 18 and over. Tickets cost £70 per person and include the immersive investigation, a welcome drink and a themed three-course meal. Tickets and further information are available at: https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/crime-dine-murder-mystery-dinner/

Christmas shopping, creative workshops and festive nights out are coming to Loughborough Town Hall this winter with a program of events offering plenty of ways to get together and celebrate the season. From handmade gifts to party nights in the Victoria ballroom, the venue is inviting visitors to make Christmas plans with friends, family and workmates. Kicking off the creative celebrations, Lino Printing Christmas Cards with Kate Gibbs takes place on Saturday 7 November, from 10am to 1pm. Participants will learn how to transfer, carve and print a design, leaving with ten handmade cards and envelopes. The £35 workshop, for ages 16 and over, is currently sold out; contact the box office for any changes in availability. Next, Christmas Bauble Painting with Elizabeth Sorosinatakes place on Sunday 8 November, with sessions from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Participants will decorate two ceramic baubles to take home in gift boxes, with guidance on using paints, pens and decoupage. No previous experience is needed. Tickets cost £30 per person and the workshop is recommended for ages 16 and over. If you’re more of a shopper than a maker, the Sock Christmas Art & Craft Fair follows on Sunday 22 November 2026. Artists and makers from the local area and further afield will bring a selection of handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles and artwork, offering visitors the chance to find Christmas gifts and support independent creative businesses. What’s more, admission is free! For those planning a festive night out, the Town Hall’s Christmas parties bring a real sense of occasion to the celebrations. The beautiful Victoria Ballroom, in the heart of Loughborough, provides an elegant setting for an evening of delicious festive food, music and dancing, complete with a brand-new private bar. A welcome glass of fizz gets the party started, followed by dinner and a DJ playing favourites to keep the dance floor busy. Whether gathering friends or celebrating with colleagues, it’s a chance to dress up, raise a glass and celebrate making it to Christmas in style! Seated dining is available on Friday 4, Saturday 5 and Friday 11 December, priced at £46.95 for two courses or £52.95 for three. Menu choices include roast turkey with traditional accompaniments and an onion and mushroom Wellington, followed by Christmas desserts. New for this year, a festive buffet party on Saturday 12 December costs £39.95 per person. Guests arrive at 7.15pmfor food service at 7.30pm, with celebrations continuing until shortly before midnight. Party bookings require a £10 non-refundable deposit per person with reservations closing on Wednesday 18 November. The Christmas celebrations continue on stage at Loughborough Town Hall, with a programme of festive shows including their award-winning pantomime, this year Dick Whittington, and a classic retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol to enjoy with family and friends. For event information, visit www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk. To book a Christmas party, call 01509 231914.

A police cordon has been established on Barradale Avenue in Sileby. A woman’s body was discovered within the property. Three men have been taken into custody. A spokesperson from Leicestershire Police said: Officers are in attendance at an address in Barradale Avenue, Sileby following a report of a sudden death. The body of a woman, who was in her 40s, was found inside the address on Friday 16 October by the East Midlands Ambulance Service. Officers attended and carried out enquiries at the address on the Friday afternoon. The death is being treated as unexplained. Following further enquiries, three men – aged 51, 31 and 30 – were arrested in connection with the death on Wednesday (21 October). They have since been released on police bail. A scene preservation remains in place at the address today while investigations continue. A cordon was in place at the address earlier on Friday and has since been lifted, police added. Pictures by Leicester Media Online

The UK government has today (23 October) issued a flood alert for Lower River Soar in Leicestershire. More rain is expected and rising river levels may lead to flooding. UPDATED Removed 4:18pm on 23 October 2026 There is no longer a threat of flooding. Further rainfall is forecast but no further flooding is expected. We will continue to monitor the situation and will issue further alerts or warnings if necessary. Continue to take care on waterside roads and footpaths and don't put yourself in unnecessary danger. KEEP UP TO DATE CLICK BELOW FOR ALERTS

Leicester's biggest bonfire night celebration takes place at Abbey Park on Saturday 7 November – and tickets are on sale now! Visitors can look forward to two spectacular firework displays and a traditional bonfire, with the first, quieter display taking place at 6.45pm, and the second launching into the sky at 8pm. Gates open at 5pm. Live music and entertainment will run throughout the night until 9pm – and there’s also a family-friendly funfair, hot food stalls serving delicious street food, and a licensed bar. Tickets are on sale now and a family of four can enjoy the evening from £28, plus small booking fee – the same price as last year. Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for culture, said: “Abbey Park’s display is one of Leicester’s longest-established Bonfire Night celebrations and it’s always really popular. This year, I’m delighted that we’ve been able to hold family ticket prices at the same level as last year, making it excellent value. “It’s a chance to see high-quality, professional displays in a fantastic, safe atmosphere, making it a great night out that I hope lots of local families and friends will enjoy.” Under-fours go free. Tickets can only be purchased in advance and will not be for sale on the night. They can be purchased online here until 7.30pm on the day, but please note that prices will go up on the day. The annual display is organised by the city council’s festivals and events team. A wheelchair viewing area is available, and Blue Badge parking is possible but limited, so must be booked in advance by emailing festivals@leicester.gov.uk. https://visitleicester.info/festival/fireworks/

Great Central Railway (GCR) is inviting families to celebrate Bonfire Night in style on Thursday 5 November, with a giant bonfire, spectacular fireworks and family entertainment at Quorn & Woodhouse Station. Promising an evening packed with autumn fun, the event will bring together traditional Bonfire Night favourites and the chance to enjoy a heritage railway journey, making it a memorable night out for all ages. Festivities will begin with the lighting of the giant bonfire at 7.30pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 8pm. Families can also enjoy fun rides for children and a tempting selection of refreshments, from classic burgers and hot dogs to sweet treats. Adults can head to the Tin Shed Bar, which will be serving a selection of drinks, including real ale, cider, lager and soft drinks. For an extra-special start to the celebrations, visitors can travel to Quorn & Woodhouse in heritage railway style, with services available from Loughborough, Rothley and Leicester North, arriving in time to enjoy the festivities. With a roaring bonfire, dazzling fireworks and the opportunity to experience a traditional railway journey, GCR's Bonfire Night celebration promises an evening of entertainment for the whole family. Tickets must be booked in advance – there will not be any available on the night. For further information, ticket prices and bookings click the button below. FU Media News

Figures show 31 children in Leicestershire are waiting for an adoptive family, prompting an appeal for more people to come forward and offer them permanent homes. As National Adoption Week shines a spotlight on the issue, Family Adoption Links Leicestershire is highlighting the need for homes for children waiting locally, including sibling groups who can often face longer waits to stay together. One family who took that step is Hannah and Adam, who adopted two siblings after years of trying to conceive. After attending an information event and learning more about the support available, they decided that they wanted to pursue adoption as it offered the opportunity to provide a permanent home to children who needed one. Adam said: "We realised sibling groups were harder to place, that also shaped our decision." The couple said the support they received throughout the process helped them navigate the challenges and joys of becoming parents. "There have been so many beautiful moments that have melted our hearts," said Hannah. "It's all been worth it." Keeping brothers and sisters together can be life-changing for children who need adoption. Siblings often provide comfort, familiarity and a shared connection to their past during times of uncertainty and change. Michelle Robinson, Adoption Service Manager at Family Adoption Links Leicestershire (FAL), said: "For many children, their brothers and sisters are a vital source of comfort and support. Wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so, we work hard to keep siblings together and find families who can help children maintain those important relationships. "We often hear people say they'd love to adopt but worry their home isn't big enough or that they're not in the perfect situation. The reality is that there is no perfect family. "What children need most is love, patience, stability and someone who is committed to helping them thrive. We would encourage anyone who has ever thought about adoption to get in touch and find out more." Anyone aged 21 or over can apply to adopt, whether they are single, married, in a relationship, own their home or rent. Family Adoption Links Leicestershire provides support throughout the journey and beyond. Anyone interested in finding out more can book a chat with the team by calling 0116 305 0505 or emailing adoption@leics.gov.uk For more information, visit the Family Adoption Links website. Leicestershire County Council News - Thursday, 22 October, 2026

Two new 20mph zones are set to be introduced in residential parts of Leicester. Leicester City Council has approved plans to introduce the reduced speed limit on 60 streets in the Saffron and Thurncourt areas of the city. The proposed schemes are the latest in a rolling programme of citywide 20mph zones. In Saffron, 21 residential streets will be covered by the new 20mph zone, extending restrictions already in place in the area. Most of the streets covered by the new scheme will be east of Elston Fields, stretching from Atlee Way in the south up to The Fairway. The Thurncourt North scheme will cover 39 streets between Scraptoft Lane and Thurncourt Road, from Sextant Road and Radiant Road in the west across to Kinsdale Drive and Kirkwell Crescent. The proposed scheme will extend restrictions already in place on streets south of Thurncourt Road. The introduction of the new 20mph zones follows consultations with ward councillors and residents with most responses in favour of the proposed schemes. Of the residents that responded to the Saffron proposals, 87 per cent were in favour of the plans, with 73 per cent of respondents supporting the proposals for the Thurncourt North area. Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: "These latest 20mph zones have been shaped by feedback from local councillors and residents, helping us deliver measures that reflect the needs of each neighbourhood. “They are part of our ongoing work to create safer, more welcoming streets across the city. By reducing vehicle speeds, we can lower the risk of serious collisions, cut traffic noise, discourage dangerous driving and make it easier for people to choose walking, wheeling and cycling for everyday journeys." The total estimated cost of introducing the two new 20mph zones is £140,000 and will be funded from the council’s transport improvement works budget. Both schemes are expected to be implemented in spring 2027. LCC News - Published on Thursday, October 22, 2026

A banging Burger Meal for £15 is on offer during the Leicester Restaurant Week at Wygston’s House From Monday 19 October to Sunday 1 November 2026. Wygston's House is taking part in Leicester Restaurant Week (LRW), by offering this lunch and dinner option. Choose from a Sandwich or burger, served with fries and your choice of drink (pint or wine). We experienced the burgers, all beautifully built and so tall, they come with a wood skewer to hold them together. A stack full of joy made with tasty ingredients and very satisfying. Served with garden salad and crispy fries. The staff are friendly and provide excellent customer service. The food comes freshly prepared and served piping hot. A range of non-alcoholic drinks is available as well, and vegetarian options are also on the menu. Wygston’s House is in the heart of the city centre. The decor is amazing, and it’s an exciting venue to explore and experience. Overall, they offer value for money. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed. Leicester Restaurant Week brings together the best restaurants in Leicester for a week’s celebration of all the amazing cuisines, dishes and dining experiences we have to offer. To get as many customers excited and encouraged to come and try what we have to offer we’re presenting a huge range of tasty deals on a plate. Details of all 45 participating venues and their deals can be found by clicking the button below. Wygston’s House Bar & Restaurant 12 Applegate Leicester LE1 5LD Tel 0116 262 2231 email : info@wygstonshouse.co.uk Pictures and Video by Russell Thorpe for Leicester Media Online

Residents in certain parts of the county will benefit from four new trial bus services launching next week, helping improve access to key destinations and addressing gaps in the local bus network. The new services will be introduced from 26 October following feedback received through Leicestershire County Council's passenger transport network review which was carried out between January 2025 until early this year. Funded through Government cash, the trials will provide more travel opportunities for communities where residents have highlighted a need for better public transport connections. The four new services are: LC18 - Diseworth to Loughborough LC19 - Bottesford to Bingham LC20 - Blaby to Narborough to South Wigston LC21 - Blaby to Hinckley All four services will be free to use and will operate between 10:00am and 2:00pm using the council’s in-house fleet vehicles. While these new trial services are designed to improve access to key destinations across the county, the council are keen to hear from residents who feel there are gaps in their local bus provision and are encouraging people to get in touch on our website Further information, including route maps and timetables, is available online Leicestershire County Council News - Wednesday, 21 October, 2026

Residents across Leicestershire can now give unwanted household items a second lease of life, with ReHome Zones now open at all 13 of the county's recycling & household waste sites. The scheme encourages people to pass on good quality items they no longer need, helping to reduce waste by increasing reuse of items rather than throwing them away. A wide range of items can be taken to the ReHome Zones, including household and garden furniture, home office equipment, bicycles and scooters, as well as handheld and petrol-powered DIY and gardening tools such as lawnmowers. Electrical and electronic items are not accepted. Residents visiting a recycling and household waste site can place suitable items in the designated ReHome Zone area, where they will be collected by the council's reuse partner and sold on for reuse by other people. Residents are reminded that items in these areas are not available for public collection, and cannot be removed from the site. To be accepted, items must be clean, in good working order and require no more than light cleaning. Soft furnishings must have a compliant fire safety label attached. Some minor cosmetic wear may be acceptable, but items should not be damaged, modified or affected by significant scratches, chips, cracks or broken parts. Councillor Adam Tilbury, cabinet member for environment and waste said: "It's fantastic that ReHome Zones are now available at all 13 of our recycling and household waste sites, making it even easier for residents to give unwanted items a new lease of life. Every item that is reused is one fewer item that needs to be disposed of, helping us reduce waste and make better use of valuable resources. Whether it's furniture, tools, office equipment or a child's scooter, many items still have plenty of life left in them and could be invaluable to someone else. I'd encourage residents to think about reuse before disposal and make use of the ReHome Zones whenever they visit one of our sites." By choosing to reuse rather than throw away, residents can help reduce the amount of waste produced across the county while supporting the circular economy and extending the lifespan of everyday household items. For more information about accepted items and to find the nearest ReHome Zone, visit our waste and recycling pages. Leicestershire County Council News - Wednesday, 21 October, 2026

Families are being encouraged to explore Leicester by bus this October half term, with the chance to win a family day out at the National Space Centre or King Richard III Visitor Centre. Leicester Buses’ Half-Term Explorer Challenge invites families to take a bus trip, capture a photo of their adventure and share it through the competition page at leicesterbuses.co.uk/days-out-by-bus-competition From discovering a museum or exploring a park to enjoying lunch or visiting somewhere new, the challenge celebrates the places families can reach by bus. With a family flexi day ticket costing just £6.40 (2 adults and up to 3 children), families can explore using participating bus operators without needing separate tickets for each operator. Entering the competition is simple: Take a bus to a family adventure in Leicester. Take a photo of your day out. Enter online at leicesterbuses.co.uk/days-out-by-bus-competition by 31 October 2026. The website also features ideas and inspiration to help families plan their next day out by bus. Councillor Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment & transport, said: “There are so many places to discover in Leicester, and half term is a great opportunity to enjoy an adventure together. “Our Explorer Challenge is about showing families where the bus can take them. With Family Flexi making it easier to travel across participating operators, we hope families will try somewhere new, share their adventures and discover journeys they’ll want to make again.” The challenge forms part of Leicester Buses’ One Network approach, bringing the city council and bus operators together to make bus travel easier to understand and use. For inspiration, competition entry and full terms and conditions, visit leicesterbuses.co.uk/days-out-by-bus-competition Family Flexi tickets are available and valid on all bus services in the Flexi area excluding the Park & Ride services. Full details here. Leicester City Council News 21st October 2026