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Live travel and traffic updates

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5.25pm: A recovery lorry has arrived on the A511 so the broken down lorry between Coalville and Sinope should be cleared shortly.4.40pm: Browns Lane in Loughborough has been re-opened after an accident outside the leisure centre closed the road. 4.07pm:There has a vehicle breakdown on A511 at Sinope near Coalville. The road is partially blocked. Motorists should expect delays delays for at least the next hour. 4.02pm: Area Traffic Control are reporting thatProblems Browns Lane in Loughborough is closed due to an accident outside the leisure centre. Drivers should expect delays through the town centre.9am The M1 southbound between junction 22 and junction 21A is blocked because of a broken down vehicle. 7.20am: There are no major delays reported on the roads in Leicester and Leicestershire this morning. However, Main Street in Queniborough remains closed at the School Lane junction, because of emergency repairs taking place after the burst water main flooded homes in the village on Monday. East Midlands Trains ‏has said trains running from Leicester to St Pancras are running well with no majr delays this morning. For ongoing roadworks in Leicester this week click
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 travel and traffic updates


Singing Policeman's peace plea

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Special constable Kulbinder Rai is known as the bobby with the beat.

The 57-year-old, nicknamed the Singing Policeman, is to release a single as a message to the world after the horrific killing of soldier Lee Rigby in Woolwich.

Engineer Kulbinder, of Evington, has recorded the track Rohb in Punjabi but feels it translates into the universal language of peace.

He has recorded the single as a call for calm, and as a tribute to his wife Suhknider who died from pancreatic cancer in 2010.

Kulbinder, who has been a special constable in Leicester for 18 years, said: "I have lost the person who means the most to me in the world. I want people to take time to stop and listen to this song and think about it.

"We are all the same the world over, whatever the colour of our skin. We should just stop fighting and get on with each other.

"The word 'rohb' means influence, pride or ego in Punjabi so I want people to stop thinking about themselves and put others first."

Kulbinder has served in Belgrave as a special constable but is now based in Spinney Hills.

The father-of-two was awarded the Queen's Gold Jubilee medal for outstanding service to the police force in 2002, a long service medal in 2004 and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012.

He said: "I wanted to use the power of music to reach out to the Asian community to address the many negative issues we are suffering from, such as families demanding dowry when young couples get married, male dominance and oppression within the family, individuals showing disrespect for those less better off and what I believe is a breakdown of respect for tradition and family values.

"My message is that we should be good to one another as individuals and not let ego get in the way."

Special Inspector Ash Lodhia said Kulbinder was a respected singer.

He said: "He is known as the Singing Policeman and I have heard him bursting into song as we are out on the beat. He has a good voice and I hope it does well."

The music has been arranged by bhangra composer / musician Kuljit Bhamra and was recorded with a full Mumbai orchestra.

Kulbinder said: "It was wonderful to go to my homeland in the Punjab and record a video and to go to Mumbai to put down the song. I hope people hear the song and like it and maybe heed the words."

Proceeds from the sale of the single, which is to be released through Keda Records on June 24, will go to Cancer Research UK.

Singing Policeman's peace plea

Fire at house in Leicestershire

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Fire seriously damaged a family's home while they were on holiday. A blaze broke out in a first floor bedroom and roof of their semi-detached house in St Peter's Drive, Thornton, near Coalville early today. Fire crews from Coalville and Ashby responded to the incident, which was reported at 4.59am. They found the property well alight when they arrived and wore breathing equipment to tackle the blaze. A building inspector was called to examine the safety of the property. The Fire Emergency Support Service vehicle was called out and was used to accommodate the family from the neighbouring property while firefighters inspected their home for damage. Crew manager Steve Page, of Coalville fire station, said: "The family whose home was involved in the fire were on holiday. "They were due to return home today, it is very unfortunate for them." The fire service said an unattended heater was believed to have caused the blaze. .

Fire at house in Leicestershire

Tigers player's poolside tackle a YouTube hit

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A film of a crunching poolside tackle by Leicester Tigers player Jordan Crane has become an internet hit. The footage taken during the stag do for the club's assistant coach Richard Blaze in Marbella, has been seen by more than 70,000 people since it was uploaded to YouTube on June 1. One of the group is seen standing by the side of the pool, when suddenly out runs the Tigers number eight Crane, who tackles him, with them both ending up in the pool. Jordan Crane published it on his Twitter account saying; "If you haven't seen the big smash yet have a watch."

Tigers player's poolside tackle a YouTube hit

'Shopping street may lose appeal'

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A retail expert has warned a shopping street could be losing its shine with the closure of Waterstones.

The book store's closure at the weekend left a large space in Market Street, Leicester.

Four of the 32 units currently stand empty but Phil Garton, who lectures in retail at De Montfort University, said he was concerned.

He said while few people probably went to Market Street solely for books, the street had lost a lot of its appeal as a shopping destination.

"Waterstones occupied a huge shop – one of the biggest in Leicester – and the big players aren't really looking to expand so I can't imagine it will find a new occupant soon," Mr Garton said.

"Market Street has also lost Clintons and Withers sports shop moved to Carts Lane.

"Too many vacancies will impact on the feel of the street. It will lose its attractiveness."

Dean Newman, who opened Newman's cafe in Market Street 26 years ago, also felt negative.

He said: "Market Street has seen business declining since the Highcross opened. We've all suffered.

"The loss of Waterstones will mean another drop in footfall and we're just lucky we've still got Fenwick."

Fenwick director David Illingworth was positive.

He said: "We are sad to see Waterstones go, but Market Street has held up extremely well.

"We have a lot of good independents. The losses of Waterstones and Clintons were due to national companies having problems.

"Fenwick is doing okay and we're very happy with the position we have in the city."

Dominic Gomersall, owner of Lumbers Jewellers, in Market Street, said he hoped to expand.

He said: "This street has an opportunity to re-emerge as the Bond Street of Leicester.

"The loss of Waterstones is a setback but not the demise."

Vicky Renolds, 29, of West End, Leicester, said: "It brought a lot of people in. It's a shame, really.

"Online book shops are squeezing out retailers."

Osbert Nalithi, 45, of Eyres Monsell, Leicester, said: "It will probably stop me from coming to Market Street – Waterstones was my main attraction here."

Paul Dixon, 45, of Rowley Fields, Leicester, said: "It will have an impact but not a big one."

'Shopping street may lose appeal'

POLL: Middle lane hogs to face £100 fines

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Drivers who hog the middle lane or cut up other motorists will face on-the-spot fines of £100 and three points on their licence. Under new plans unveiled by the Government today, police are to get powers to issue instant fixed penalty notices for anti-social motoring. The aim is to free up the police from spending time on court cases. From July drivers who tailgate other cars, use the wrong lane at a roundabout or fail to give way at a junction will be targeted. The Government will also increase the fine for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving or not wearing a seat belt from £60 to £100. The use of hand-held phones at the wheel has been banned since 2003, and became an endorsable offence in 2007. Meanwhile the fixed penalty for driving without insurance is expected to double from £100 to £200. Transport minister Stephen Hammond said: "Careless drivers are a menace and their negligence puts innocent people's lives at risk. "That is why we are making it easier for the police to tackle problem drivers by allowing them to immediately issue a fixed penalty notice rather than needing to take every offender to court. "We are also increasing penalties for a range of driving offences to a level which reflects their seriousness and which will ensure that they are consistent with other similar penalty offences." Edmund King of the AA said middle-lane hogs, tailgaters and mobile phone users were the top three most hated types of driver in a poll of members. But he said: "There has to be discretion. If someone is driving for half a mile in the middle lane when the inside lane is clear, then it's a clear case. "Under this system it will be easy for a police car to stop you and give you a ticket." Motorists will still be able to appeal against any decision through the courts. Have your say below and take part in our poll, on the right.

POLL: Middle lane hogs to face £100 fines

100-year-old died because of a 'catastrophic error'

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A 100-year-old woman died because of a "catastrophic error" in her care at Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Great-grandmother Lydia Spilner suffered as a result of a catalogue of failures during a four-week period at the hospital, including not having enough fluids, which led to her death from dehydration.

The infirmary has admitted the faults and has paid Mrs Spilner's family an undisclosed, out-of-court settlement.

During the four weeks Mrs Spilner was a patient at the infirmary, her family found there were times she had been left without water and food, despite complaining she was hungry.

Her daughter, Nora Spilner, also found her in urine-soaked sheets.

On one occasion, the elderly patient had fallen from her chair and rolled underneath her bed and another time she had porridge caked in her hair.

Mrs Spilner, from Tilton on the Hill, was admitted to the hospital in January, 2012, with a suspected chest infection. During the next month, her family watched "fiercely independent" Mrs Spilner deteriorate.

Pleas from her daughter to put her on a drip were ignored for days.

Mrs Spilner, a Second World War refugee, died on February 22 last year from renal failure caused by dehydration.

Daughter Nora, also of Tilton on the Hill, said nurses responsible for her mother's care had failed to show "an ounce of compassion".

"What I find so hard to forgive is the way my mum's condition was allowed to deteriorate with very little thought given to her dignity," said Nora.

"She did not deserve to go like she did. The way she was looked after was appalling.

"It was heartbreaking to witness my mother slowly losing her dignity. She deserved better and I hope the nurses responsible are thoroughly ashamed."

In January, 2012, Mrs Spilner was taken to the accident and emergency department at the infirmary by her family, who were concerned about her speech becoming confused.

She was diagnosed with dehydration, put on a drip "and within two hours was back to her normal self," said Nora.

Mrs Spilner was then transferred to ward 31 at the infirmary, which is when the family's nightmare began.

Nora visited every day and became alarmed at her mother's deteriorating condition.

She said: "One afternoon, I noticed she had no water near her bed that she could drink.

"I requested a jug from the nurse but she said the jug was broken and they had no others available.

"My mum's skin was becoming dry and cracked and it was clear to me she was very dehydrated.

"I pleaded with the doctors to put her back on a drip but it took 10 days for them to take action."

Nora said her mother developed "horrific" mouth blisters due to antibiotic treatment but that she was never provided with any soft food or soup, even though she would complain that she was starving.

She said there were times when she found her mother in urine-soaked sheets and, when she asked why her mother had lumps of porridge caked in her hair one day, she was told her mother had fallen asleep in her breakfast.

Mrs Spilner died almost four weeks after being admitted to ward 31.

Robert Rose, partner at Lime Solicitors, which acted on behalf of Mrs Spilner's family, said: "Our medical evidence showed that the 10 days without sufficient fluids caused her to develop renal failure and brought forward her death. The trust has admitted there were clear failings in the care Lydia received."

Mrs Spilner fled her homeland of Latvia to escape the invading Russians during the Second World War.

She married in Germany and, after the war, made a new life in Britain with her husband.

They landed at a displaced persons' camp in Foxton before moving to work on a farm in Tilton on the Hill.

Nora said: "It was probably her tough upbringing that made her so fiercely independent in later years. Apart from using a walking stick to help her get around, she was in good shape for her age."

As well as her daughter, Mrs Spilner, who was widowed in 1970, had a son, five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Sue Mason, divisional head of nursing at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said: "It's clear our failure to give Mrs Spilner intravenous fluids was a catastrophic error, for which we have apologised.

"We know that saying sorry won't bring her back, but we at least want her family to know we will not avoid our responsibility. We are truly sorry.

"As regards the equally important issue of the compassion shown to Mrs Spilner: since this happened in 2012, we have changed the nurse leadership on this ward, increased staffing levels and introduced hourly ward rounds.

"Again, we realise these actions will not alter anything for the family, but we hope that it shows we take their experience seriously."

100-year-old died because of a 'catastrophic error'

Couple face £70,000 repair bill after flood damage in Queniborough

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A heartbroken family whose home was flooded when a water main burst say the deluge has caused at least £70,000 of damage to their property.

The Lanzas were among several householders affected when the main erupted in Queniborough on Monday afternoon.

Many say they are angry it took water company Severn Trent Water 90 minutes to switch off the main and start repairs.

They are also concerned that Main Street was not closed sooner to prevent vehicles causing "tidal waves''.

Severn Trent Water is facing substantial insurance claims after company assessors visited the homes of people affected by the burst.

Dozens of properties were affected to differing degrees as the main erupted, lifting the road surface near butcher's shop Clarkes Queniborough shortly after 3.30pm.

The water was up to 3ft deep in places and several houses, garages and gardens were flooded.

Roger and Rachael Lanza's five-bedroom home in Coppice Lane was among the worst affected.

Mother-of-three Rachael choked back tears as she told how her dream home was ruined by 2ft of water.

She said: "I just could not believe it. Water ran in from everywhere, ruining our antique furniture, carpets and all the precious items we had on the ground floor.

"We have spent so much time getting our home right, only for this to happen."

Rachael, who has a 10-week old daughter, Siena, said: "So much of what we own has been ruined."

Husband Roger said: "I am angry that it took Severn Trent so long to get here to do something. If they had shut the water off quicker I am positive the damage would not have been so bad.

"What made it worse was that vehicles were allowed on to Main Street and they caused a bigger tidal wave which swept into our home and other properties."

Roger said he would be making a claim against the water company.

"I have spoken with our own assessors and we estimate the amount of the damage is between £70,000 and £100,000," he said.

Roger said he would like to thank neighbours who tried to protect the house.

The Lanza family have been forced to move out of their home. Relatives are staying there in their absence.

Neighbour Peter Branscombe, 60, said the deluge was "frightening".

He said: "I walked down Coppice Lane towards Main Street and people were wading up to their knees," he said.

"I ran back into my bungalow as vehicles were causing bow waves and put all my electrical goods on tables.

"Fortunately, the water didn't reach my home. I was able to take in Rachael and the kids and give them some food until they went to stay with relatives. I called the emergency services. Everyone is angry that it took so long for Severn Trent to shut off the water."

Clarkes Queniborough owner Ian Clarke said: "The road twisted up like you see in an earthquake and a tremendous torrent swept down the road."

Main Street is likely to remain closed to through traffic until Monday.

A Severn Trent Water spokeswoman said its team got to the incident as quickly as it could, arriving on scene at 5.30pm following a call at about 4pm.

She said: "We worked to shut off the burst pipe and reroute water around our network, so customers' supply was restored before 7pm.''

The team worked throughout yesterday to re-lay the road surface after fixing the main.

She said loss adjusters had visited homes that had been affected, and it was too early to say how many claims for compensation it would receive.

"We'd like to thank the community for their patience," she added.

The spokeswoman said Severn Trent liaised with Leicestershire County Council to close the road as soon as possible. A fire engine was also parked across the road to halt traffic.

Leicestershire police said it was not responsible for closing the road, but had attended and liaised with the county council over the road closure.

• Click to see more pictures from the flooding in Queniborough.

Couple face £70,000 repair bill after flood damage in Queniborough


Tories warn of a further £20m cuts at County Hall

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Finance bosses at County Hall have said they will need to save a further £20 million over the next five years - on top of nearly £80 million of cuts outlined earlier this year. Tory-run Leicestershire County Council has revised its spending plans following last month's election and has warned of even greater strain on services. In January, the council said it would have to save £79 million up to 2016/17 to cope with reductions in Government funding and said around 1,000 jobs would be cut. Today council deputy leader Councillor Byron Rhodes said fresh information from Chancellor George Osborne suggesting Government austerity would stretch a further year to 2017/18 had prompted a rethink of the county council's finances. He said the authority had already worked out where £35 million of savings would come from but has yet to decide where it will cut a further £65 million. It is planning to consult the tax-payers over the summer, to help identify where the money could come from. The council it will need to look at sharing services with other public bodies such as the NHS but also simply cutting back what it does. Coun Rhodes said: "We have had to take a view because we have had indications from the Treasury that there will be a further year of austerity. "We think we might be required to cut a further £20 million." He said that could see the number of posts cut at County Hall rise to 1,300. He added: "Like all authorities, the county council is facing continued reductions in Government grant, plus rising demand for services. "It is an unprecedented situation. "This will have a profound effect on the services we provide and it's inevitable that we will need to provide different services in different ways. "That's why it's so important that people take part in our consultation over the summer, to help us to develop our future direction." The council says it has saved £63 million already over the past three years. That includes £41 million of efficiency savings. County Hall's opposition Liberal Democrat group leader Simon Galton said: "We are going to want a proper explanation of why the figure has suddenly leapt up by £20 million. "There's a Government Comprehensive Spending review at the end of June but this seems to preempt it. "We'd want to see the hard evidence before reaching for the axe to cut more services. "The ballot boxes were barely put away when the Conservatives launched more cuts. They didn't give people the full picture before the election." The county council's Labour group leader said: "For the last three or four years the council has been girding it loins and preparing for how it will handle the cuts but I think this has become a bit of a shock to them. "It's a major turbulence to its financial plans and I don't think it has any more ideas about how to save money. "It might try to put out more services to the private sector in the hope it will be cheaper but that does not tend to save a quick buck." The council's cabinet will discuss a report on the budget situation and proposed consultation on Wednesday. Further details about the council's consultation with the public and stakeholders will be released this summer.

Tories warn of a further £20m cuts at County Hall

City cinema screens Bollywood film shot in Leicester

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A Bollywood blockbuster filmed in Leicester is due to open in the city on Friday. Action-comedy Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (Mad, Madder, Maddest 2) features high-profile Bollywood actors Sunny and Bobby Deol, alongside their famous father, Dharmendra Deol. It will be shown at the Odeon, in Freemens Park, after premiering in India this week. The movie was directed by Sangeeth Sivan, a filmmaker from Mumbai, India, who recruited hundreds of students from the University of Leicester, as well as local extras who applied for a part in the film following an appeal in the Mercury. Dancers Nimisha Patel, 23, and her boyfriend Durgesh Makwana, 25, were two of the 700 support cast. They run the DNS Productions dance troop and took 10 of their dancers to the shoot last September. Nimisha, from Hamilton, said: "I can't wait to see the film, I'm very excited. "We're taking our dance troop to see the film this weekend." University spokesman, Ather Mirza, said: "It is an inspiration for our students to work with stars of the calibre of Dharmendra, Sunny and Bobby. "As a film industry dynasty, they are tremendously well-respected and well-known, and their presence on campus will have a huge impact." The film also features Anupam Ker, who starred alongside Leicester's Parminder Nagra in Bend it like Beckham. But it is the numerous city locations which appear in the film that will be most familiar to Leicester cinema-goers. Scenes were filmed in the shopping areas of Belgrave Road and MacDonald Road, as well at New Walk Museum and the National Space Centre. In the county, a lavish wedding scene was filmed at Stanford Hall. Amupan Ker, who plays a comedy villain in the film, tweeted a photo of himself at the National Space Centre, where he spent the night filming, adding "What an amazing place to be in. Educative and entertaining :)". University of Leicester buildings, the David Wilson Library, the Charles Wilson Building, the Botanical Gardens and The Knoll student's halls of residence also appear. Actor Sunny Deol plays a mature student studying at the university. Mr Deol, 56, whose wife is from Rutland and children were born in Leicester, said: "We have been made to feel very welcome. The scenes we've shot at the University of Leicester are an integral part of the film. It's a beautiful location for what will be a fabulous family film." Mr Deol's father, Dharmendra Deol, 77, who has performed in 275 Indian films, said: "Leicester is such a lovely location and we are very pleased to be able to film here." This is not the first time Bollywood has used Leicester as a scenic backdrop. Raakh (Ashes) was filmed in the city in 2004 and Is Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doo (What Name Shall I Call Our Love) in 2001. Are you going to see to Mad, Madder, Maddest 2 at the cinema this weekend? Send in your 150-word review of the film - and we'll print as many as we can in the paper or online. E-mail newsdesk@leicestermercury.co.uk

City cinema screens Bollywood film shot in Leicester

CCTV appeal after burglary

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Police have released an image of a man they are trying to trace in connection with a burglary at a home in Leicester. The incident happened in Wilberforce Road, off Narborough Road, between 11pm on Tuesday, May 7, and 2am on Wednesday, May 8. A number of items were taken from the home including an Apple Mac Book Pro, an Xbox console including two controllers, cables and games. Police said thieves entered the house through the back door. Detective Constable Ivor Messiah, who is investigating the incident, said: "We have carried out a number of enquiries to trace the person responsible and recover the stolen property and are now in a position to release images of a man we wish to speak to in connection with the incident. "If you recognise the man or have any suspicions about his identity we would urge you to contact us. Any calls received will be treated in confidence. "We would also like to speak to anyone who has any information about the stolen property, have you been approached by anyone selling the items or do you know someone who has recently acquired these items? If you can help please contact the police." Call police on 101.

CCTV appeal after burglary

Western Force 17 British Lions 69 - Tigers duo on scoresheet

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Leicester Tigers duo Tom Croft and Geoff Parling were both on the scoresheet as the British & Irish Lions demolished the Western Force 69-17 in a nine-try rampage at the Pattersons Stadium today. All six Leicester players in the 23-man squad played their part in the rout which saw the tourists overwhelmed the Super 15 opposition, in Perth. Centre Manu Tuilagi was particularly impressive and his link-up with skipper Brian O'Driscoll could be the pairing that head coach Warren Gatland decides to go with for the opening Test against the wallabies on June 22. The only concern was an ankle injury suffered by Ireland prop Cian Healy. The Leinster forward was carried off and taken to hospital for an X-ray, although initial reports were that he had sprained his ankle rather than anything more serious. Healy's departure was the only setback for a Lions side far quicker in thought and deed than their spirited, but outclassed, opponents. The tourists ran in tries from captain Brian O'Driscoll (2), Jonathan Sexton, Croft, Jamie Heaslip, Mako Vunipola, Tommy Bowe, Owen Farrell and Parling, while full-back Leigh Halfpenny produced a goal-kicking masterclass. Halfpenny, this year's Six Nations player of the tournament, booted all nine conversions - several from the touchline - and two penalties for 24 points and a 100 per cent record. The Force replied with touchdowns by forwards Richard Brown and Lachlan McCaffrey, while scrum-half Brett Sheehan converted both and landed a penalty, but they had no answer to some perpetual motion rugby by the tourists. O'Driscoll, on the first appearance of his fourth successive Lions tour, steered the ship majestically, but he had any number of willing workers alongside him, most notably the sublime Sexton and strong-running flanker Sean O'Brien. It was just the start head coach Warren Gatland would have wanted to a nine-game Australian tour schedule highlighted by three Test match appointments with the Wallabies. The Lions have already clocked up 128 points and 17 tries in two games, and the early signs are hugely encouraging for what awaits them during the next month. The Lions, showing a completely changed line-up following last Saturday's victory over the Barbarians in Hong Kong, went ahead through an early Halfpenny penalty after Bowe sliced open Western Force's defence. And Bowe's break proved a sign of things to come as the Lions relentlessly built pressure, with O'Brien proving a particularly effective link in terms of continuity. The Force had their work cut out keeping a consistent defensive shape, and they were horribly outfoxed by Sexton when he danced his way over from 20 metres, beating three players in the process. Halfpenny converted, only for the Force to find themselves immediately back in their 22 and play was briefly held up when referee Glen Jackson - the former Saracens fly-half - sought video assistance for alleged foul play. An unnamed Force player claimed he had been bitten, but no evidence could be found despite the television match official reviewing play from a number of different angles. It sparked the Force into action, though, and a committed counter-attack briefly shunted the Lions out of their rhythm, but they had no real problem successfully defending their line. A Sheehan penalty eight minutes before half-time then opened the Force's account, before O'Driscoll claimed a well-worked touchdown and Croft also scored. And the third quarter was one-way traffic with Heaslip powering over before Healy's replacement Vunipola touched down in the corner. It was relentless by the Lions, and even though Brown's try momentarily knocked them out of their stride, they quickly surged back upfield to camp deep inside Western Force's 22. The Force struggled to contain wave after wave of attacking red shirts, and their job was made even tougher midway through the half when centre Ed Stubbs was sin-binned for not rolling away from a ruck. And Stubbs' poor discipline was immediately pushed when the Lions easily worked Bowe across for try number six, which Halfpenny again converted from the touchline that continued his remarkable show of accuracy. The Lions were in no mood to take their foot off the accelerator, and further scores followed in quick succession for O'Driscoll and Farrell, although Croft's evening ended early when he left the action gingerly after a clash of heads with Brown. Lions lock Alun-Wyn Jones received a late yellow card for a technical infringement, but his team were long home and hosed, ready to begin preparations for a far sterner encounter against Queensland Reds in Brisbane on Saturday.

Western Force 17 British Lions 69 -  Tigers duo on scoresheet

Woman confronted in her home by burglar with gun

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A woman was confronted by four burglars who had broken into her home. Police said one of the men was believed to be carrying a gun. The incident happened on Saturday, June 1, at the house in Cropston Drive, Greenhill, in Coalville, at about 6.45am. The woman was woken by her dog, who was barking downstairs. She went to investigate and found the men stealing items, including her television. Officers said the women was left frightened but unharmed. Detective constable Luke Brooks, who is investigating the incident, said: "This was a frightening incident for the victim, fortunately incidents of this nature are extremely rare in Leicestershire, we're taking the report very seriously and are determined to identify those responsible. "We are in the process of identifying any witnesses or anyone who was in the area on Saturday morning, if you witnessed four men acting suspiciously or saw a vehicle not usually seen in the area on that morning we would urge you to contact us. "The television that was stolen has a vertical scratch down the centre of the screen, if you know someone who has acquired a similar television since Saturday we would like to speak to you as soon as possible. Any calls received will be treated in confidence." Call police on 101.

Woman confronted in her home by burglar with gun

TV aerial repair man conned pensioners, court told

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A dishonest tv aerial repair man conned elderly householders out of cash for work that did not need doing, a jury heard. Keith Matthews (59) denies 10 counts relating to four incidents of fraud and engaging in unfair commercial practice, between April 2011 and March, 1012. John Hallissey, prosecuting, told Leicester Crown Court: "The defendant is a deceitful, dishonest trader of the very worst kind. "The sort of trader who gives hardworking honest upstanding businessmen a bad name. "He uses a variety of names, installing aerials on people's roofs. "He preys on the vulnerable and deliberately targets the elderly. "Matthews was party to carrying on of businesses One Digital and Aerials Direct for a fraudulent purpose and wasn't in business genuinely to repair but aimed to con people to do work that didn't need doing and overcharge." One of the alleged victims was an 89-year-old man who ended up paying £4,900 for aerial repairs and "shoddily" carried out odd jobs, that the prosecution claimed should not have amounted to more than £490. Matthews, of Station Road, Quorn, was not in court. Judge Head told the jury they were not to draw any inferences because the trial was taking place in his absence. Mr Hallissey said Leicestershire County Council's trading standards department carried out a sting operation, using an actress posing as a vulnerable pensioner at a house in Hospital Lane, Blaby, in April 2011. He said: "Microphones and cameras were installed and an expert in tv aerials examined the system in place and introduced a very small fault that could be repaired in five or 10 minutes." Matthews allegedly sent an employee on the first day, who told the actress she needed a new aerial and fitted one. He gave her a non-existent address on an invoice. Matthews later arrived to tune in the TV set and also gave a false name of "Gary," along with a bogus address on an invoice, which stated there was a five year guarantee. Mr Hallissey said: "The prosecution say it was a worthless, utterly meaningless guarantee with a false name and address on it." The trial continues.

TV aerial repair man conned pensioners, court told

Leicester Tigers draw for Heineken Cup

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Leicester Tigers have been drawn with Ulster, Montpellier and Treviso in Pool 5 of next season's Heineken Cup. And while all of those sides will represent a threat, Leicester will fancy their chances of making the quarter-finals from what looks like one of the easiest of the six pools draw in Dublin this afternoon. Tigers were hammered by Ulster two seasons ago but this year's losing Pro 12 finalists have lost some of their aura. They have never met French Top 14 side Montpellier in the competition and have, once again, drawn an Italian team in the form of Treviso, who they have never lost to. Heineken Cup pools Pool 1 Leinster Rugby, Northampton Saints, Ospreys, Castres Olympique Pool 2 Toulon, Cardiff Blues, Glasgow Warriors, Exeter Chiefs Pool 3 Toulouse, Saracens, Connacht Rugby, Zebre Pool 4 ASM Clermont Auvergne, Harlequins, Scarlets, Racing Metro 92 Pool 5 Ulster Rugby, Leicester Tigers, Montpellier, Benetton Treviso Pool 6 Munster Rugby, Perpignan, Edinburgh Rugby, Gloucester Rugby Heineken Cup dates Round 1 11/12/13 October 2013 Round 2 18/19/20 October 2013 Round 3 6/7/8 December 2013 Round 4 13/14/15 December 2013 Round 5 10/11/12 January 2014 Round 6 17/18/19 January 2014 Quarter-finals 4/5/6 April 2014 Semi-finals 25/26/27 April 2014 Final 23/24/25 May 2014 The detailed schedule will be sorted out later this summer.

Leicester Tigers draw for Heineken Cup


One Direction get in shape with help of Leicester muscle men

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Two Leicester beefcakes are getting pop princes One Direction in shape for their US tour. Mark Jarvis, of Leicester's Muscle Machine gym, and judo champion Jimmy Wallhead have been using their mixed martial arts know-how to get the singers ready for the Take Me Home tour's North American leg, which begins this weekend. The band, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson, recently completed a tour of Europe, singing their hits such as What Makes You Beautiful and Little Things. An employee at Muscle Machine in Evelyn Drive, West End, told the Mercury that Mark's contract prevents him from talking about the training regime the band members, aged between 19 and 21, are undergoing, and the newspaper was unable to contact Jimmy for a comment. However, a source widely reported on the internet said: "It's important for the boys to be in the best shape physically possible for these dates. "Bosses don't want half measures, and as the boys spend a lot of time travelling, there can be a tendency to eat junk food and play lots of video games. "But thanks to Mark and Jimmy's new regime, they've been working out lots more. Harry has really bulked up his arms, and Liam has a sturdy set of abs. "Niall, Louis and Zayn have been working out with separate trainers, but they're getting into it, too. "Their trainers have insisted they eat healthier food, and it helps that they had healthy catering for the UK leg of their tour. "It's a great starting point for all the hard work they're going to have to put in ahead of their stadium tour next year." Groby 29-year-old Jimmy, who is also known as Scuba Steve, has a black belt in judo and was a three-time Under-21 British Judo Champion before he began competing in mixed martial arts. He competes in the welterweight division and is a member of Team Rough House and Leicester Shootfighters. He has recently also turned his hand to coaching alongside Mark at Muscle Machine, where Mark is a co-owner. Mark has a name for himself in Hollywood, having also trained actor Stephen Graham, from Ibstock, ahead of filming for HBO series Boardwalk Empire earlier this year.

One Direction get in shape with help of  Leicester muscle men

Leicester City can do it next season - Rob Tanner's tips for the top

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Leicester Mercury's chief football writer Rob Tanner gives his tips for the Premier League and why he thinks Nigel Pearson's men are leading contenders for glory.
With just two months to go to the start of the new Championship season, we now know exactly who stands in Leicester City's way as they bid to reach the Premier League. All the promotion and relegation issues have been long settled, and City know what they are up against as they bid to improve on last season's sixth-place finish. Last season was one of the closest Championship seasons ever with Peterborough relegated with a record number of points, and City scraping into the play-offs with the lowest-ever points total. This season promises to be no different. It may be early in the close season with clubs yet to embark on their summer recruitment, or even settle managerial issues, but here are the sides that are expected to challenge for promotion or fight relegation.MY TIPS AUTOMATIC PROMOTION: QPR and Leicester City PLAY-OFF WINNERS: Wigan THE CONTENDERS The three sides that have come down from the Premier League should be strong. Last season Wolves slipped straight through the division, but I don't think that will be the case this coming season. Here are the contenders and the bookmakers' odds given are on a side's chances of promotion to the top flight. Reading - ODDS: 10/3 joint second favourites VERDICT: Nigel Adkins was unlucky to be sacked at Southampton after leading them from League One to the Premier League. He knows the Championship and is a good leader. The Royals did not spend heavily when they went up so are not financially struggling and should be able to keep the core of their squad, especially striker Adam Le Fondre, who proved he can score at the top level. Queens Park Rangers - ODDS: 6/4 favourites VERDICT: At times, they seem like a chaotic club and will be counting the huge financial cost of relegation, with so many big wage earners on the books. Normally, I would doubt they could reorganise themselves sufficiently, but they have the Harry Redknapp factor and I believe he will get them into contention. Wigan Athletic - ODDS: 7/2 VERDICT: A lot will depend this summer on who replaces Roberto Martinez. But, in Dave Whelan, they have a sensible chairman and Wigan are a well-run club, so they should stay strong. Leicester City - ODDS: 10/3 joint second favourites VERDICT: Yes, I expect City to build on last season and remain one of the front-. Until the start of February, they were really on the pace until they faded dramatically. The young players will have learned a lot from last season, and so will manager Nigel Pearson of his squad's character. A few new additions and City will be strong again. Nottingham Forest - ODDS: 4-1 VERDICT: Billy Davies just seems to fit Forest like a glove. His return coincided with an excellent run of form to the end of the season and he will be backed strongly by Forest's wealthy owners. They will definitely be ones to watch. Bolton Wanderers - ODDS: 10/3 joint second favourites VERDICT: Dougie Freedman seems to have got the Trotters sorted and they were the form side in the division over the closing stages, although they couldn't get over the finishing line. A few decent recruits and they will be ready. Leeds United - ODDS: 4-1 VERDICT: Brian McDermott is an astute manager and he will do a good job at Leeds. A side mid-table last season, but I can see them mounting a challenge this time. Brighton - ODDS: 4-1 VERDICT: Who knows what is going on at that club and how it will pan out. But based on the quality of their squad alone I believe they will challenge again. THE ALSO-RANS These are my tips for the teams that may well flirt with the play-offs, but will fall short in the final analysis. Charlton Athletic - ODDS: 9-1 VERDICT: They had the momentum last season after promotion from League One and did well back in the Championship. Chris Powell's team will be tough to beat. Watford - ODDS: 4-1 VERDICT: A side built on loans will have to be rebuilt and, with managerial vacancies cropping up everywhere, Gianfranco Zola will be in demand. Derby County - ODDS: 9-1 VERDICT: A side that don't seem to be going anywhere. Comfortable in the division but lacking the clout to challenge. Birmingham City - ODDS: 6-1 VERDICT: Lee Clark blooded some youngsters last season who did well to pull the Blues away from relegation trouble. They will consolidate this term. Ownership issues need to be resolved before they can move forward. Burnley - ODDS: 12-1 VERDICT: Turf Moor is always a tough place to go to but the Clarets don't possess enough quality and won't be challengers for promotion. Ipswich Town - ODDS: 5-1 VERDICT: I almost put these in the contenders category because Mick McCarthy did a tremendous job last season and they could still be a surprise package this time round. Blackpool - ODDS: 10-1 VERDICT: They will lose Thomas Ince this summer and I can't see his dad getting the Tangerines into a position to challenge. Middlesbrough - ODDS: 7-1 VERDICT: Collapsed after a bright start last season and couldn't recover. I expect them to do better but still fall short. Blackburn Rovers - ODDS: 6-1 VERDICT: They seem a chaotic club. A manager has now been appointed, but how long will it last?The STRUGGLERS THESE clubs look destined to have a difficult season – and for some of them it will be a familiar story. Sheffield Wednesday - ODDS: 12-1 VERDICT: Fantastic support but I can see Dave Jones' side having another tough season. Huddersfield Town - ODDS: 14-1 VERDICT: Much will depend on who they are able to bring into the club but had a tough time last season and need stability. Millwall - ODDS: 16-1 VERDICT: Losing Kenny Jacket will affect them. He did well to build his side, but new man must steady the ship. Barnsley - ODDS: 28-1 VERDICT: Survived by the skin of their teeth and, while they have the ability to give the best a bloody nose, they will do well to survive again. Doncaster - Rovers ODDS: 33-1 VERDICT: When they went down they were in chaos and have surprised me with how they have bounced back. Ex-City man Paul Dickov has taken control. Bournemouth - ODDS: 5-1 VERDICT: Eddie Howe has already admitted his side need to find an added edge to make an impact in the Championship, but I can't see it. Yeovil Town - ODDS: 40-1 VERDICT: It is a remarkable story that Yeovil are in the Championship, so I hope they enjoy it because could it could be a short stay.

Leicester City can do it next season -  Rob Tanner's tips for the top

Aerial repair man 'preyed on elderly'

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A TV aerial repair man was branded "a deceitful, dishonest trader of the very worst kind" as he went on trial accused of ripping off customers.

Keith Matthews is alleged to have overcharged householders, including the elderly, and duped them into having unnecessary work done.

The 59-year-old, of Station Road, Quorn, denies 10 counts relating to four alleged incidents of fraud and engaging in unfair commercial practice.

John Hallissey, prosecuting at Leicester Crown Court yesterday, said: "The defendant is a deceitful, dishonest trader of the very worst kind.

"The sort of trader who gives hardworking honest upstanding businessmen a bad name.

"He uses a variety of names, installing aerials on people's roofs.

"He preys on the vulnerable and deliberately targets the elderly."

The court was told Leicestershire County Council's trading standards department hired an actress to play the part of a vulnerable elderly occupant of a bungalow, which was fitted out with microphones and 12 hidden cameras.

Officers set up an operations room in the garden shed outside the home, in Hospital Lane, Blaby, in April 2011.

Matthew Chapman, a trading standards enforcement officer, said an expert created an easy-to-spot "simple fault" on an aerial cable.

The defendant's employee, Luke Busby (26) – who has admitted an offence of fraud – was filmed at the bungalow after the actress, Frances Harris, responded to a newspaper advert claiming to offer discounts for pensioners.

Busby, of Leicester Road, Countesthorpe, failed to locate the fault and falsely claimed the woman needed a new aerial, which was installed for £95.

He gave her a bill with a false name and address on. The defendant, who was calling himself Gary, was then filmed attending the bungalow to tune in the television.

He handed over an invoice bearing a bogus name and a different false address.

It also had "five-year guarantee", which, Mr Hallissey said, was "worthless and utterly meaningless".

He said Matthews carried out businesses as One Digital and Aerials Direct not to genuinely to repair aerials but for "a fraudulent purpose".

Matthews "aimed to con people" into having work done that did not need doing and to overcharge them for it, Mr Hallissey said.

One of the alleged victims was an 89-year-old man, of Braunstone, who ended up paying £4,900 for aerial repairs and "shoddily" executed odd jobs that the prosecution alleges should not have amounted to more than £490.

Mr Hallissey said a couple in their 70s, of Syston, answered the defendant's advert in May 2011.

Again calling himself Gary, he said a new aerial was needed and allegedly refused to say how much it would cost until after he had fitted it. He charged £260.

"Had they been told the cost in advance, they wouldn't have had the work done and that's why he didn't tell them," said Mr Hallissey.

The court was told that another householder, also in Syston, contacted the defendant.

In March last year, calling himself Stuart, Matthews recommended and installed a signal booster in the attic that was allegedly not needed, charging £100.

Another aerial engineer the couple called in tested the booster to find there was either "a low or non-existent signal" from it.

The householder summoned Matthews back as the original problem was not rectified.

"It became apparent someone who knew what they were doing was going to make it plain he had done a shoddy job," said Mr Hallissey. He ended up giving them a refund.

Matthews is being tried in his absence. The jury has been told by the judge not to draw any inference from him not being present.

Busby, who has yet to be sentenced for his lesser involvement, is expected to give evidence in the trial.

The trial continues.

Aerial repair man 'preyed on elderly'

Mobile CCTV plan to combat yobs

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A remote mobile CCTV camera is to be put up in a part of the city in a bid to help combat anti-social behaviour.

The camera, costing just over £4,500, has been funded by a community fund in Abbey ward, which includes the Mowmacre Hill and Stocking Farm estates.

The ward's councillors are expected to rubber stamp the funds at a community meeting next week.

Ward councillor Vijay Riyait said: "We've been getting problems in areas such as Heacham Drive and Abbey Rise, mainly low level incidents of criminal damage and noise nuisance.

"We have been able to drive down widespread anti-social behaviour working in conjunction with the police and investing in community centres such as the Tudor Centre, a former pub which has been transformed into a centre providing services and training.

"But we don't want to be complacent, there are still issues with anti-social behaviour which is a serious problem for those affected."

"We came up with the idea of putting up a mobile CCTV camera, the cost of which will be met by the community fund."

Councillor Riyait said he had met Police and Crime Commissioner, Sir Clive Loader, who reiterated that tackling anti-social behaviour was a key part of his overall strategy.

"I have invited him to come and look at the issues in Abbey ward and he has agreed to do that," Coun Riyait said.

Ward councillor Annette Byrne said: "The cameras can't be everywhere at once, but this will be installed in different areas, not stuck in one place. It won't eradicate the problem completely, but it will help."

Doreen Wadd, of Heacham Drive, said: "It's dreadful up here at night sometimes, they ride trial bikes up and down the field at the back.

"At the weekends there are broken bottles and rubbish left everywhere, it is quite dreadful sometimes. I would hope that having this camera available might help."

Another resident of Heacham Drive, who asked not to be named, said: "We overlook the field at the back and we've had fences broken over the years. I think this would be a good idea."

The meeting, at the Tudor Centre in Bewcastle Grove, starts at 6pm on Tuesday.

Mobile CCTV plan to combat yobs

Leicester Tigers avoid big guns in Heineken Cup draw

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Leicester Tigers have avoided Europe's big guns for next season's Heineken Cup.

Leicester were picked in Pool Five, along with Ulster, Montpellier and Treviso, when the draw was made in Dublin yesterday.

While all three of those clubs will represent the sort of challenge expected at Europe's top table, Tigers will fancy their chances of making a second consecutive quarter-final having avoided the likes of Clermont, Leinster, Toulouse and champions Toulon.

Leicester last met Irish side Ulster in 2011-12 when they were knocked out of the tournament after a comprehensive defeat in Belfast.

Italian side Treviso have been pool opponents three times in the last five years, while Tigers have never met French Top 14 side Montpellier in the competition.

Ironically, Tigers will play Montpellier in pre-season at the Geneva Challenge in early August. They will also face Ulster at Welford Road later that month.

Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said he was expecting a typically tough campaign.

"The Heineken Cup is a very competitive tournament and we're proud of our history of qualifying to be in it every season," he said.

"You always know you are going to be in a hotly-contested pool and next season's draw is no different.

"Ulster reached the Heineken Cup Final just a year ago after coming out of our pool, and they topped the table in the Celtic League competition this year.

"Montpellier had a strong season in the French Top 14 and were only eliminated in the play-offs by the eventual champions Castres. They are recruiting strongly for next season and will undoubtedly present a tough challenge.

"We know Treviso well after being paired with them in recent seasons. They have a lot of the Italian national squad in their ranks and they are always tough opponents.

"But we have a good squad too, our supporters always travel in strength across Europe."

Ulster were extremely consistent in the Pro12 this season, finishing top of the table after 17 wins in 22 games before losing the final to Leinster at the RDS, in Dublin.

Treviso have often been seen as the whipping boys of Heineken Cup rugby having won just 18 out their 90 matches in the competition.

But they finished a very respectable seventh in the Pro12 last season and came within a last-gasp penalty try of beating tTigers in Italy when the sides met in the same competition last season.

Montpellier finished fifth in last season's French Top 14 and have signed some big names for their 2013-14 campaign. One of those is former Tigers lock Jim Hamilton, who has made the move from Gloucester.

France international Nicolas Mas will beef up the Montpellier front-row and South African centre Wynand Olivier is another big-money arrival from Super 15 side, the Bulls.

The order of fixtures, plus kick-off dates and times for rounds one to four, will be announced later this summer.

Leicester Tigers avoid big guns in Heineken Cup draw

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