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Plans to get rid of big-screen TV

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Talks are being held to see if the giant television in Leicester city centre can be off-loaded to another council.

Leicester City Council officials have already decided to take down the big screen in Humberstone Gate to save about £45,000 a year.

It was due to be dismantled at Easter, after being used in the Christ in the Centre production, but several months on, the 10-metre tall structure is still playing BBC content on a loop.

The city council says it has not taken the screen down because another organisation has expressed an interest in taking the television off its hands.

The £500,000 television was donated to the city by Olympic organisers in 2009, to show major sporting and civic events, but to mainly cover last summer's London games.

City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby has described it as "irritating" and has said he does not think many people watch it any more.

He told the Leicester Mercury: "We have had some interest from another authority which would like to take it off us. That is a better option than just throwing it away.

"If we can reach agreement with them, they can take it off us."

Sir Peter said it would be unfair to name the interested council because it has not publicly said that it wants the screen.

He said the city council's contract for the screen ran until October and, if no deal had been done by then, the screen would come down.

He said: "We could switch it off now. We would save the electricity bill but, in the big scheme of things, we might as well get some use out of it while we have it."

The screen has previously been used to show opera performances, but the council decided not to use it to broadcast England football matches in last year's European Championships, as it had done in the 2010 World Cup.

It cited the extra cost of security and streaming the matches live.

Jamie Cross, 23, from Belgrave, said: "I was going to say it's a bit like Marmite – you either love it or hate it – but I don't know anyone who likes it and if you stop and watch people near it, they mostly ignore it.

"I wouldn't mind if it was turned off today."

Alice Lunn, 26, from Stoneygate, said: "I watched it a bit when the Games were on but now it's just a noise that competes with the nearby traffic as far as I'm concerned.

"If someone else really wants it though, then that has to be better than scrapping it, especially if it is worth a lot of money."

Plans to get rid of big-screen TV


Lions match verdict: Phillips turns it on in rip-roaring start

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Wales star Mike Phillips inspired the British & Irish Lions to a comprehensive 59-8 victory at a hot and humid Hong Kong Stadium as their 10-game tour began in successful fashion.

Stamina-sapping conditions proved the real winner, though, as humidity levels touched 94 per cent, contributing greatly to both sides struggling for sustained passages of error-free rugby.

Scrum-half Phillips, the Lions' most consistent performer, scored two tries, while wing Alex Cuthbert also claimed a double and there were further touchdowns for skipper Paul O'Connell, centre Jonathan Davies, flanker Dan Lydiate and substitute Alun-Wyn Jones.

Fly-half Owen Farrell kicked 15 points, but he had a mixed bag of a game elsewhere, making some poor decisions, with one handling blunder leading directly to a Barbarians try.

His replacement, Jonathan Sexton, added two conversions.

Northampton-bound Samoa international Kahn Fotuali'i touched down for the Barbarians, and there was also a penalty by Wasps centre Elliot Daly, but they were again crushed following a drubbing by England at Twickenham eight days ago.

The Lions, who struggled to win their first tour match in South Africa four years ago, head to Australia today, where far greater challenges await, including three Tests against the Wallabies.

They are on the trail of a first Test series triumph since 1997, and by the time things are up and running Down Under, their Hong Kong excursion will be remembered as little more than the equivalent of a pre-season friendly.

Phillips apart, there were some noticeable individual contributions by Wales back-row forwards Justin Tipuric and Toby Faletau, while Scotland pair Richie Gray and Stuart Hogg had their moments.

But with a crowd of just under 29,000 struggling to become enthralled by the action, it was a case of job done for the Lions, yet nothing more.

Despite the game's low-key nature, it exploded into life after just eight minutes following an early Farrell penalty.

England No.10 Farrell was again in the mix, but this time on the receiving end of a punch by his Saracens team-mate and Barbarians hooker Schalk Brits.

Referee Steve Walsh initially penalised the Lions after Farrell reacted, but he reversed it on scrutiny of video replays, and Brits was yellow-carded, although fortunate to escape red.

Farrell then missed a penalty while Brits spent time in the cooler, and the game had a low-key feel despite the Lions looking to attack with pace and width.

Daly hauled the Barbarians level through a long-range penalty strike before Brits returned.

The Lions moved up a gear during the second quarter, and a sharp break by Phillips almost produced a try before O'Connell dived between a pile of bodies to touch down.

Farrell converted for a 13-3 advantage, and Phillips then sniped his way from 20 metres out, with Farrell again converting.

Phillips struck again with four minutes of the restart, easing away from a line-out to cross unopposed, before Farrell landed his sixth kick.

The Barbarians were now in damage-limitation mode, especially as the Lions had started to monopolise possession, and Tipuric was stopped just short by a Joe Rokocoko tackle.

The Baa-baas were hanging on as Leicester Tigers hooker Tom Youngs, plus props Cian Healy and Matt Stevens, arrived off the bench.

Rokocoko showed his class in attack by shredding the Lions' defence, and Fotuali'i had a simple task of finishing off his exquisite approach work.

Farrell was replaced by Sexton, who quickly got in on the act by converting a breakaway try from Davies.

Cuthbert, Wales' most prolific try-scorer during the past year, then got in on the act with a double in seven minutes, before Lydiate crashed over from close range.

Lions match verdict: Phillips turns it on in rip-roaring start

Lions v Barbarians: Team ratings

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The British and Irish Lions started their 10-game tour in impressive fashion with a 59-8 win over Barbarians. Here's how the Lions rated: STUART HOGG: Ran some great lines, if only the passes had gone to hand. Quick and a danger in open play. 7/10 ALEX CUTHBERT: Two-try haul underlined why he is favourite to nail down the right-wing spot in the Test team. 7 JONATHAN DAVIES: Part of a dominant Lions midfield, showed good hands and mixed up intelligent play with strong running. 7 JAMIE ROBERTS: Picked up where he left off against South Africa in 2009 by blasting holes in the opposition defence. 8 SEAN MAITLAND: Suffered from a lack of ball, but hinted that he has plenty to offer in attack on this tour. 6 OWEN FARRELL: Excellent place kicking was undermined by his punch on Schalk Brits. Made several errors. 5 MIKE PHILLIPS: The outstanding player on the pitch, he crossed twice and is all but assured of his place in the Test team. 9 MAKO VUNIPOLA: Has been a wrecking ball for Saracens, but failed to have the same impact for the Lions. 6 RICHARD HIBBARD: The line-out functioned well and he was instrumental in the success of the set-piece. 7 ADAM JONES: Instrumental in dismantling the Barbarians' scrum, giving the Lions a crucial platform. 8 RICHIE GRAY: Quick and skilful, showed his comfort on the ball during one phase in the first half. Otherwise quiet. 6 PAUL O'CONNELL: Scorer of the first try of the tour, the 2009 skipper put his hand up for Test selection. 7 DAN LYDIATE: In the thick of the action but needs more game-time after coming back from ankle surgery. 6 JUSTIN TIPURIC: One of 11 new Lions, showed he is a genuine alternative to Sam Warburton at openside. 8 TOBY FALETAU: Immense work-rate, made the hard yards around the breakdown time and again. 8 REPLACEMENTS TOM YOUNGS: First line-out throw was off-target, but then settled. 5 CIAN HEALY: One run showed how destructive he can be. 6 MATT STEVENS: Part of dominant Lions display in the second half. 5 ALUN WYN JONES: Desperate to reclaim his Lions Test place. 5 JAMIE HEASLIP: Faces a fierce battle with Faletau for the No.8 jersey. 5 CONOR MURRAY: Great break led to one of Cuthbert's tries. 6 JONATHAN SEXTON: Replaced Farrell and kicked well. 6 GEORGE NORTH: Strong run set up a try. 5

Lions v Barbarians: Team ratings

Anger at County Hall parking

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Bosses at County Hall are being accused of putting their need for parking spaces ahead of safety.

For the past three years, people living opposite the Leicestershire County Council headquarters in Leicester Road, Glenfield, have faced a growing problem of council staff parking on the lane outside their homes.

The 50mph downhill stretch has two carriageways for traffic and the third lane which was put there when County Hall was built in the 1970s.

It allows residents to safely pull out of their homes without going straight into the traffic.

County Hall wants to deal with the parking problem using a two-hour limit but, tomorrow, residents at the Blaby Highways Forum will present a petition rejecting the plan, fearing it will create a busy short-term car park on their street.

Annette and Peter Oliver, who live in Leicester Road, collected the signatures of 40 residents saying "no" to the two-hour waiting limit. Peter said: "That lane was put there for the safety of residents as it's dangerous to turn on and off the dual carriageway.

"Over the past three years, more staff from County Hall have been parking along here and every day it's solid.

"Sometimes the traffic is moving too fast and when you're approaching the house you just have to abort and go around the block again."

Annette said: "It's extremely scary pulling out of the drive and all the residents have had horrendous experiences."

Chris Merkin, 52, who also signed the petition, said: "It's really a County Hall overflow car park and it's just going to be a short-stay, rather than a long-stay, car park if they put in the two-hour restriction."

Marie Watts, 36, has two children aged four and five and is worried about their safety when she reverses out of her driveway.

She said: "The cars park on both sides of my drive, so it really affects visibility and my main concern is for my kids in the back seat. It's getting worse and we can't even slow down enough to turn into the house without getting beeped at by everyone behind."

A spokesman for Leicestershire County Council said: "We are committed to finding an acceptable solution to the parking issues in the area and have proposed a scheme of parking restrictions.

"These proposed orders still allow for parking over a limited period of time. However, should there prove to be a need for further restrictions, these can be introduced.

"This scheme will be implemented at the same time that a 186-space extension of the County Hall car park is due to be opened in early July and will also coincide with a push to encourage staff to use our own car park facilities."

Anger at County Hall parking

Hostage hoaxers wasted police time

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A prank involving a "mock hostage" and threats to "blow up" a block of flats, resulted in a seven-hour siege with armed police.

Brothers Daniel and Dillon Smith barricaded themselves inside a first-floor flat, giving the impression a kidnapping was taking place, Leicester Crown Court was told.

It led to a massive emergency service response costing thousands of pounds.

At one stage, Daniel Smith (25) claimed to be holding six hostages at a flat in Tuckers Road, Loughborough, and threatened: "I'm going to kill them."

Neil Bannister, prosecuting, said a seemingly distressed man appeared with the brothers on the flat's balcony.

He said: "He had some covering over his head, a bag or balaclava, and white masking tape around his mouth. However, it appeared to be a mock hostage, who could be heard making over-exaggerated calls for help and then laughing."

Daniel Smith made repeated demands for fast food to be delivered and for a police negotiator.

The incident happened on February 3, when police received a report of "a number of men fighting" in Tuckers Road at 3.15pm.

They attended to discover a number of men were inside a nearby flat. "They were under a duty to check the safety of those individuals," said Mr Bannister.

Dillon Smith (34) frustrated the inquiry by refusing to open the door, initially making excuses the flat owner was out and then barricading the door. At 3.50pm, the defendants ran on to the balcony aggressively shouting abuse and threats at officers.

Daniel Smith told police sergeant Carl Mee: "I'm going to kill you and that police dog."

He also made a reference to the gas being on and yelled: "I'll blow the whole block of flats up."

Mr Bannister said: "A number of demands were made, which the police didn't take entirely seriously, but it tied up resources trying to get occupants out."

The scene was attended by seven armed officers, 17 constables, three sergeants, three negotiators, a dog handler, an ambulance and a fire appliance. At 5.30pm four occupants from the flat climbed down from a balcony and were detained.

It was not said in court if they were charged with anything.

The Smith brothers remained inside the flat, making further demands until 10.30pm when they gave themselves up.

The brothers, both of Howe Road, Loughborough, admitted wasting police time and were each jailed for four months. Daniel Smith also admitted making threats to kill and breaching an 18-week suspended jail sentence, which was activated to run consecutively.

Dillon Smith pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour.

Judge Michael Pert QC said: "Your behaviour was disgraceful and the whole stand-off wasted valuable community resources."

Elizabeth Power, mitigating, said: "The police weren't to know it was a prank. It was stupid and it was a threat the police had to take seriously. He's had time to reflect and cool his heels in custody."

Defence counsel Paul Prior said that Dillon Smith was battling an alcohol problem and depression at the time.

Hostage hoaxers wasted police time

VIDEO: Rendall's a big hit in a tutu, helping raise money for charity

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Boxer Rendall Munroe donned a yellow tutu to help raise money to educate young children in India.

He joined other members of Leicester's Bikram Yoga studio to take part in a Flashdance themed fund-raiser – which included 80s disco moves.

Students and teachers donned neon lycra, headbands and leg-warmers for the session on Friday evening.

Rendall, who has been training at the studio for two years, said: "When they said they were having a charity event, I decided I wanted to get involved. I had to get a costume and the tutu was just the thing.

"It was all in a good cause and we had a great time."

Money raised will help fund a commitment made by Bikram Yoga Leicester two years ago to fund the school fees of seven-year-olds Chandra and Manasa in Karnataka, India.

Owner Libby Nockles said: "The goal is to ensure the pair receive the best education possible in a nearby English-speaking school and, as of next year, the studio is also pledging to support Chandra and Manasa's two younger siblings."

The Flashdance theme was the brainchild of students Rob Hollway and Peter Barratt. The session also involved the 2012 British Yoga Champion, Faye Huiyu.

Teacher Rachel Blunt said: "It costs about £500 a year to educate each child."

VIDEO: Rendall's a big hit in a tutu, helping raise money for charity

The Cockers Column: A proud day for whole club

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It was a huge relief to lift the Aviva Premiership title. With the expectation at this club, we would get so much stick if we didn't win it! There was also a mixture of joy, satisfaction and pride at lifting a 10th English title.

I am so pleased for everyone at the club.

I am in a good position to judge how much work goes into a season, and this club has very good people working their socks off to achieve success, from the board all the way through to the front office.

They all deserve a huge amount of credit.

I am proud of the players, too. We have six guys in the British & Irish Lions squad this summer and that is a tremendous testament to this club's ability to keep producing world-class players.

But each member of this squad is as important as those guys.

Anyone who has worn the Tigers shirt this season has played their part in us winning the title.

Their attitude has been superb all season. They work hard and get on as friends. You can't buy what they have as a group.

That collective spirit was evident right up to the last kick of the season, too. Take Adam Thompstone and Thomas Waldrom, two guys who have made 47 appearances for us this season between them.

Both of them were left out of the match-day 23 for the final and that was harsh on both of them after what they have done for us this season.

But they took it on the chin, and the way they conducted themselves during the week was exemplary.

They didn't mope about or show their disappointment. They helped in whatever way they could to support the guys who were in the team.

That earned them a huge amount of respect from the other guys here, and was a snapshot of the team spirit that is around the Tigers camp. We made some mistakes in the final and were not at our best, but we did what we needed to do to win.

Finals, as we know by bitter experience, are all about winning, and we beat a good side in Northampton.

I keep saying this, but we do well against Saints consistently because we respect and know how good they can be.

That's why we worked very hard in the build-up to the game and were not complacent in any way.

We announced our new signings last week, and also the names of some of the players who have agreed extended contracts.

The new guys will add strength in various positions, while the re-signing of guys like the Youngs brothers, Steve Mafi, Manu Tuilagi, Tom Croft, Julian Salvi and Geoff Parling should keep a strong nucleus of the squad together for years to come.

If you imagine all of those guys as new signings, it would not be a bad year for business, would it?

On the coaching front, we will miss Matt O'Connor and wish him well for his move to Leinster.

No doubt when the Heineken Cup groupings are pulled out of the hat, we will draw each other and we can play each other with each side doing all the same moves!

Paul Burke and Geordan Murphy will step up and take control of our backs, and all of the boys in the squad are happy with that going forward.

As usual with us, it is a case of evolution, not revolution.

After a short time away, I will be back at the training ground planning the start of the defence of our title.

We go back to the drawing board every year.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us this season. It means a lot to the club.

The Cockers Column: A proud day for whole club

Live traffic and travel updates

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10.45am: Traffic now flowing freely on A46, A607 and A6 to the north and west of Leicester following earlier accident on A46 westbound carriageway. No other incidents or congestion to report on city and county roads.9.18am: Accident on the A46 westbound has now been cleared from the carriageway. But long delays taking a while to clear between the Hobby Horse roundababout, at Syston, and the Anstey turn.8.37am: Accident on the M1 bound A46 western bypass blocking one lane between Birstall and Beaumont Leys. Delays back to the Hobby Horse island at Syston.7.48am: No reported problems on the roads this morning.For more local and national travel information and weather updates see the links below:MOTORWAY UPDATES: For traffic updates on UK motorways and other key roads - CLICK HERE.LIVE CAMERAS: Check the M1 through Leicestershire with our live traffic cameras - CLICK HERE.NATIONAL RAIL: For live UK train updates - CLICK HERE. FLIGHT INFORMATION: For East Midlands Airport visit: CLICK HERE.WEATHER: See the latest five-day weather report at: www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/weather.CONTACT NEWSDESK: Send us your news and pictures. Tweet us @thisisleics or email newsdesk@leicestermercury.co.uk

Live traffic and travel updates


American veterans' moving return

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A memorial has been unveiled to American troops who found a home from home here in Leicester 69 years ago before leaving to fight in the liberation of Europe.

Veterans of the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division were among those gathered for the unveiling of the monument in Scaptoft.

Two regiments of the division lived in camps just outside the city in early 1944 as they prepared for operations in the run-up to the D-Day landings.

The 325th Glider Infantry Regiment (GIR) was camped at Scraptoft, while the men of the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment – nicknamed the Devils in Baggy Pants –were stationed in Evington.

There were tears of pride and gratitude during a short dedication service held in Edith Cole Memorial Park, in the centre of the village, on Saturday.

Among those who made the journey from the United States was Herb Heubschen, now 93, a veteran of the 325th GIR, from Beloit, Wisconsin.

"I've got a lot to thank Leicester for," he said. "Not only is there the kindness and hospitality shown to us by the people of Scraptoft, but I also met my late wife here – Iris Betts, of Paget Road.

"She was selling tickets for a dance at the Allied Services Club, in Leicester, and I asked her out. We dated for four months before we left for Normandy."

Staff Sergeant Heubschen, a radio operator, was wounded in the shoulder by German artillery in the town of St Mere Eglise the day after D-Day.

"That probably saved his life," said his son, Don, 59, the younger of the couple's three children.

"His company commander was killed in the explosion and the two radio operators after my father were also killed.

"Being here today is so special. The people of Leicester took care of my dad and all the other young soldiers who were so far from home.

"That they are remembered in this way after all this time is incredibly moving."

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin J Ostberg was commanding the 2nd Battalion of the 325th when he was killed protecting his men's retreat on February 2, 1945, during the Battle of the Bulge, in Belgium, the last major German offensive in the west.

His daughter, Betsy Matthes Ostberg, 71, from New York, said: "As a column of tanks approached, he climbed on to a tank to provide cover fire. He was hit by a shell and was killed instantly. That's why I'm here today, to honour the men he died trying to save, and to say goodbye to him.

"The people of Scraptoft and Leicester were incredible. They took these young men into their homes and hearts – and for the many it would be their last memory of such kindness and generosity."

Joining the veterans and their relatives at the service – led by Father Andrew Poole of Scaptoft All Saints Church – were villagers, British veterans, Royal Air Force cadets, and a colour guard of serving US soldiers from the 709th Military Intelligence Battalion, based in Yorkshire.

Thanks was also given to the architect of the memorial project, 26-year-old battle historian Adam Berry, from Ashby, who raised £1,200 with the help of veterans, their families and donations to pay for the memorial.

"What a great job Adam's done," said Peter Elliott, 63, chairman of Scraptoft Parish Council. "These brave young men will never be forgotten."

American  veterans' moving return

Six Leicester Tigers named in Lions squad

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All six Leicester Tigers in the British & Irish Lions squad have been chosen to face Western Force in Perth on Wednesday. Manu Tuilagi and Dan Cole will make their Lions debuts in the starting line-up while Tom Croft also starts after making his debut on the 2009 tour of South Africa. Tom Youngs, Ben Youngs and Geoff Parling are all on the bench. Just hours after touching down on Australian soil, head coach Warren Gatland picked a side which does not include any of the players that started against the barbarians in Hong Kong last Saturday. It will be captained by Irish centre Brian O'Driscoll. The game against the Australian Super 15 side takes place at Patersons (correct) Stadium and kicks off at 11.0 BST. Lions: Halfpenny, Bowe, O'Driscoll, Tuilagi, North; Sexton, Murray; Healy, Best, Cole, AW Jones, Evans, Croft, O'Brien, Heaslip. Bench: T Youngs, Vunipla, Stevens, Parling, Faletau, B Youngs, Farrell, Maitland.

Six Leicester Tigers named in Lions squad

Appeal after man 'stabbed' in park

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A man is being treated in hospital after a suspected stabbing attack in a city park. The 32-year-old victim was assaulted in Surrey Street, Belgrave, following an altercation with a group of youths in Cossington Recreation Ground. A police spokesman said the man is receiving treatment for what are believed to be "puncture wounds" but added that the injuries are not thought to be life threatening. Detectives are now studying CCTV footage from the area and urge anyone who witnessed the incident to get in touch. The attack happened at about 11pm on Thursday, at the Surrey Street entrance to the park. "The victim had been on nearby Cossington Park when he became involved in an altercation with a group of youths near to the children's play area," said the police spokesman. "A short time later, he saw the same group on the park near to the Surrey Street entrance. "The group proceeded to chase the victim onto Surrey Street where he was assaulted." He added: "He is currently receiving hospital treatment for what are to be believed to be puncture wounds. "His condition is not believed to be life threatening." The youths are described as teenagers, who were wearing dark clothing and hooded tops. Detective Constable Denise Reidy said: "From enquiries we've conducted so far we believe the victim was involved in an altercation and then subsequently assaulted. "We are in the process of studying CCTV from the area and speaking to local people. "We would urge anyone who was in the area and hasn't yet spoken to the police to come forward. "If you witnessed the assault or the events leading to it please contact us, anonymously if you wish. "No matter how insignificant you may think it is, it could help with the investigation." Anyone with information is asked to call the police on the 101 number.

Appeal after man 'stabbed' in park

Cutbacks may close police stations

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Public access to Leicestershire's police stations could be reduced or even ended under the force's latest efforts to save money.

Leicestershire Police is reviewing the usefulness of its stations' front inquiry offices, the Leicester Mercury has learned.

It is now assessing whether to reduce their opening hours or, potentially in some cases, close them altogether.

The process is part of the force's continuing effort to reduce its costs by millions of pounds in line with the Government's public spending cuts.

The staff who work on the inquiry desks help the public with a range of services, from filing crime reports to producing motoring documents when required by law to do so. Some major stations are open to 9pm or 10pm, including weekends, while most of the smaller stations are open until 6pm Monday to Friday.

In the past few years, the force has closed the public offices at stations including Belgrave and New Parks, although officers are still based in the buildings. Many of the civilian staff who run the offices are members of public sector union Unison.

Chris Hanrahan, secretary of Unison's Leicestershire Police branch, said: "There are no firm decisions yet, but we are concerned about the possibility of some job losses if front inquiry offices are closed or the hours are reduced.

"We have to save £20 million over the next two years and, if we are to achieve that, there will be an effect on staffing because we are a 'personnel-heavy' organisation.

"We have already lost 300 police staff members in the past couple of years because of the cuts and there is concern there is more to come. People visit their local police stations for a myriad of reasons, whether it's to report a crime, report for bail, hand in some found property or to produce their motoring documents. So, as well as the potential for jobs, there is also a concern about a possible reduction in public access to the police."

A source told the Mercury: "Front inquiry offices are important and reducing the hours or closing any of them would not be popular with the public. There is also a concern that some of the analysis of use of the front inquiry desks was conducted during the Olympic Games, which was a relatively quiet and low crime period for us."

Marion Lewis, a Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator in Market Harborough, said: "I understand the force needs to save money but I think it would be short-sighted to cut the hours during which people could visit their local police station or close any of these inquiry offices completely."

A force spokeswoman said: "Leicestershire Police has conducted a study into the number of people using its front inquiry offices.

"In some cases, this has shown a decline as a result of a shift in demand due to a number of factors, including new technology which provides alternative methods of contacting the police.''

Current inquiry desk opening times• Blaby, Market Harborough, Oakham, Hinckley Road, Welford Road, Syston and Spinney Hill Park, Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm, 2.45pm to 6pm.• City centre (Mansfield House), Monday to Sunday, 8am to midnight.• Hinckley, Melton, Coalville, Monday to Sunday, 9am to 9pm.• Loughborough, Wigston, Monday to Saturday, 8am to 10pm, Sunday, 9am to 9pm.• Lutterworth, Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm.• Beaumont Leys, Keyham Lane – Monday to Sunday 8am to 10pm.

Cutbacks may close police stations

Woman injured after fall from horse

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A 22-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital yesterday when she was thrown from a horse while jumping a fence near Oakham. The woman was briefly knocked unconscious following the fall. The Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance was called out just after 4pm and landed in a nearby field. Air ambulance paramedics administered pain relief and anti-sickness medication to the woman before she was flown to Queen's Medical centre, in Nottingham, for further treatment. The DLRAA attended around 90 horse riding incidents last year - a third of them in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Woman injured after fall from horse

Driver dies in bus shelter collision

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A pensioner died when the car he was driving left the road and crashed into a bus shelter. Stephen Hammonds, 67, of West Bridgford, Nottingham, was pronounced dead at the scene in Station Boulevard, Loughborough. The incident happened at about 3.30pm on Thursday when the grey Ford Focus he was driving left the road and collided with a bus shelter. No-one else it thought to have been injured and police are appealing for witnesses to get in touch. "The vehicle was driving towards the A60 Nottingham Road at the time of the collision," said Detective Constable Seamus Burns. "We would like to appeal to anyone who may have seen the collision or the vehicle beforehand to contact us." Anyone with information should call the police 101 number.

Driver dies in bus shelter collision

Hull 'have made second bid for Kasper'

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Hull City have made two official bids to try to sign Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, his father Peter has revealed. City have rejected one bid of £1.25 million from the Tigers, but Peter told Danish outlet DR a second bid has gone in. "Hull have filed two officials bids, and they have a super manager, Steve Bruce, who is one of my best friends," he said. "He has known Kasper since he was three and a half years old. And Kasper and Alex, Steve's son, have played together and grew up together. It's a great funny story. "How [the speculation] ends, is under the control of Kasper, his club and his agent. "It will not be easy for him to leave, because he is at a club that definitely will not let go of him. "It is interesting to follow this, and I stand on the side-lines as a very proud father."

Hull 'have made second bid for Kasper'


VIDEO: Music in the Park at Wistow Hall

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Hundreds of people joined in the traditional Last Night of the Proms favourites at the Music in the Park event in the grounds of Wistow Hall.

Members of the 1,000-strong audience waved flags as award- winning band Boobs and Brass played Rule Britannia and Jerusalem on Saturday evening.

They then sat spellbound during a spectacular firework display.

The event, organised by the Wigston Rotary Club, also featured Leicester's Junction 21 swing band.

Harry Dalby, chairman of the organising committee, said: "I would like to thank all those who worked so hard to make the event such a success.

"The good weather encouraged many people to come at the last moment and the numbers were up on last year."

He said it was too early to assess how much money was raised for the three principal charities, Loros, The Prince's Trust and Breast Cancer Campaign.

VIDEO: Music in the Park at Wistow Hall

Bookies back Leicester City to go straight up

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Leicester City have been backed as early contenders for promotion next season.

Nigel Pearson's charges are second-favourites to secure a place in the Premier League, according to the national bookmakers.

City are 10-3 with Skybet to win promotion, the same price as newly-relegated Reading and Bolton, the side City pipped into the play-offs.

With Coral, City are out on their own in second at 11-4, despite only creeping into the top six at the final moment last season.

City's such short odds should be no surprise. The club has consistently been among the favourites ever since the Thai owners took over the club with their hefty financial backing.

The burden of expectation has often weighed heavily on the side, and it seems next season will be no different as they head into their 10th campaign outside of top flight.

"Leicester were well backed in the transfer market by their owners and, on paper, have one of the strongest squads," said Skybet's Chris Spicer. "They created more chances on average than any other team in the league last season.

"If they improve their frontline, they will surely compete for the top spots in the league."

QPR are clear favourites to bounce straight back to the Premier League at 6-4 with Skybet, while FA Cup winners Wigan are 7-2.

Watford, the side who beat City in dramatic fashion in the play-off semi-final, are 4-1 along with Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Leeds.

Twice out of the last three seasons, a club promoted from League One has gone on to achieve back-to-back promotions, first Norwich in 2011, then Southampton in 2012.

Play-off winners Yeovil are 40-1 to achieve the feat, and Paul Dickov's Doncaster are 33-1, while Bournemouth, who are featuring in the second tier of English football for the first time since 1987, are the bookies' fancy for promotion at 5-1.

Bookies back Leicester City to go straight up

Man in court over Woolwich murder

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One of the men accused of murdering solider Lee Rigby asked to be referred to as Mujaahid Abu Hamza when he made first court appearance yesterday.

Michael Adebolajo (28) from Romford in Essex, was appearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court to face various charges.

He is accused of murdering Drummer Rigby, 25, near Woolwich barracks in south east London on May 22.

Co-accused Michael Adebowale (22) was at the same court last week and appeared at the Old Bailey yesterday afternoon.

Adebolajo is also accused of the attempted murder of two police officers and possession of a firearm, a 9.4mm KNIL model 91 revolver, with intent to cause others to believe that violence would be used.

Wearing a white T-shirt and white trousers, Adebolajo blew a kiss to a man in the public gallery and they both pointed to the sky.

His left arm was fully bandaged and he held a copy of the Koran.

As he was asked to stand, Adebolajo did so, but asked: "May I ask why? May I ask why?"

When told it is customary to stand, he said: "I want to sit."

Adebolajo, who was referred to as Mujaahid Abu Hamza in court following his request, was charged with the four counts on Saturday, having been discharged from hospital on Friday.

He was shot by police on May 22 and spent just over a week in hospital.

After standing when asked to at the end of the day's short hearing, he asked deputy chief magistrate Emma Arbuthnot: "May I respond to you? You would prefer me not to speak to you. I am only a man. I would like to alleviate the pain if I may?"

He kissed the Koran and raised his arm into the air.

Adebolajo was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey within 48 hours for a bail hearing.

The man whom he gestured to in the public gallery would not speak to journalists when approached outside.

Adebowale, from Greenwich, south east London, later appeared via video-link at the Old Bailey.

He is also accused of murdering Drummer Rigby on May 22, as well as possession of a firearm, a 9.4mm KNIL Model 91 revolver, with intent to cause others to believe violence would be used.

No application for bail was made during his hearing.

The judge, Mr Justice Sweeney, told the court the defendant would reappear for a preliminary hearing on June 28, when his case is expected to be joined with that of Adebolajo.

Man in court over  Woolwich murder

Pistorius family vows to give full support

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The family of Oscar Pistorius have said they will "support him every step of the way" ahead of his court appearance today – but the parents of the girlfriend he shot are still searching for answers.

In a television interview tonight, June Steenkamp says "there is only one person who knows what happened" when her daughter Reeva Steenkamp was killed.

The interview with Mrs Steenkamp and Barry Steenkamp comes as Pistorius – who is expected to stand trial later this year – is due to appear in court in Pretoria today.

Arnold Pistorius, uncle of the athlete, said the family fully stand behind him and said they were "shaken" by the pictures of the star's bloody bathroom which emerged last week.

He said: "We believe in him, love him and will support him every step of the way.

"We were shaken by the graphic images, leaked into the public domain this week, of the accident scene at Oscar's house.

"It has always been our plea that the legal process be allowed its run its course with integrity."

The 26-year-old double amputee and six-time Paralympic sprint champion has been charged with premeditated murder, but claims he shot 29-year-old Ms Steenkamp after mistaking her for an intruder.

'Cutting edge' centre marks 40th birthday

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The city's Haymarket shopping centre is marking the 40th anniversary of its grand opening today.

On June 4, 1973, the £5 million centre opened its doors, bringing to Leicester the modern retail experience, complete with air conditioning and piped music.

Leicester's Lord Mayor, Arnold Wakefield, opened the centre, with its 75 shops designed for the "motorist shopper".

Among the stores were Littlewoods, Lord John of Carnaby Street and clothes store Chicks, which advertised itself as "one of London's most groovy boutiques".

Others included C&A, BHS, Swiss Cottage, Bobby Cousins, George Oliver Footwear and Mac Fisheries.

Four decades on, the anniversary will be marked by an exhibition looking back at 40 years of memories.

A display of photographs and memorabilia begins today on the upper level of the shopping centre.

As well as press cuttings and pictures, the exhibition will expand to include memories of great days out at the centre, contributed by shoppers while the exhibition continues throughout June.

Centre manager Amanda Phillips said: "It has been very interesting looking at old photographs of the Haymarket shopping centre and seeing how it has changed over time.

"There have been a lot of changes to the centre over the years, not least the installation of the glass roof, and it was particularly nice to see the different Christmas decorations over the years.

"Having the Haymarket shoppers contribute their own memories and stories has also brought a human touch to the exhibition."

City mayor Peter Soulsby is due to open the exhibition today.

He said: "I remember before the Haymarket shopping centre opened, going into the car park and peeping through the hoardings at all the glass and marble.

"It was something Leicester had never seen before and, as a shopping centre, it's still very important to our city centre today."

He said there had been mixed opinions about the new shopping centre because of the many old buildings demolished to make way for it. He said: "Leicester had to modernise but some did feel it was too much and there were buildings demolished to make way for it that it would probably be considered important to preserve now.

"It was a time when much was being lost to make way for cars as well."

Max Boden, policy manager at the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce, said the Haymarket continued to be an important asset for Leicester.

He said: "It was cutting edge at the time, built at the heart of the city near the Clocktower and market.

"It's held its own and that speaks volumes for the continued commitment of the owners.

"It's difficult with all the changes in architectural fashions to keep a successful shopping centre going but the Haymarket centre is still full of good brands.

"It will be interesting to see what the next 40 years bring."

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