Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson will be looking for an immediate response from his players after Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Crystal Palace at the King Power Stadium.

A first home defeat of the campaign, after six straight wins on home turf, saw City slip off the top of the table behind Cardiff.

They now prepare for trips to Watford and Bolton, before East Midlands neighbours Nottingham Forest pay a visit to the King Power Stadium on November 10.

"It is important to bounce back," said Pearson. "We have to wait a week now, then we have two tough away games coming up.

"All the fixtures at his level are difficult. It is how you do yourselves.

"If we perform to the levels we are capable of, we can beat any side home or away."

Pearson accepted that Palace, despite having lost manager Dougie Freedman to Bolton in the build-up to Saturday's clash, were the better side on Saturday. Indeed, it was not hard to see how they have climbed the Championship table on the back of a 10-game unbeaten run.

However, the City boss added that it was also a case of Leicester not being at their best for the visit of the Eagles.

"Every game we have played so far, you are going to have one or two players who are not quite firing on all cylinders," he said.

"But, providing everyone else is okay, you can carry players until they kick in during a game.

"Against Palace, we probably had too many struggling to find the sort of form they have had so far."

The overall picture remains a bright one for City, though, as they are well placed in the table and have been producing good football on a regular basis home and away.

"We were beaten by a good side," added Pearson. "Our level of performance wasn't what I would have liked it to have been, but I know we have a very honest group and a group that will get better. There is always lots to work on.

"I am very pleased with how our players have applied themselves, even when we have come in for some criticism."

A group of 38 Leicestershire pupils on a school trip to the United States were trapped in their hotel for several hours as New York prepared to be battered by Hurricane Sandy.

The Leicester High School students, from across the county, stocked up on supplies before they were ordered to keep off the city's streets as the superstorm approached yesterday.

The girls scrambled with New Yorkers to get the food and drink they needed should the electricity and water supplies be disrupted by the predicted flooding and winds of 85mph-plus.

The teenagers are on a week-long school trip to take in the presidential elections and performing arts events, and are staying in a hotel in Times Square.

Yesterday, one of the group, A-level student Sorcha Whyte, contacted her parents to keep them posted on what was happening.

Speaking over a Skype internet link, the 17-year-old said: "We are in the middle of Times Square and it's pretty chaotic. The supermarkets are crowded with everyone panic-buying. Everyone seems pretty well prepared though for what is likely to happen."

Sorcha, from Market Harborough, said: "We have been told to stay in the hotel. We will not be able to go over to Washington as we had hoped."

Sorcha's father, Mike Whyte, said: "I spoke to Sorcha and she is fine, if a little anxious. It was about 10am local time and they were expecting the storm to hit later in the evening."

He said the party of students was made up of girls from all around the county, aged from 15 to 19. They flew into New York on Friday and were due to fly back on Thursday from Detroit, after visiting the White House and arts venues. However, Mr Whyte said the group's return was now likely to be put back until the end of the weekend due to flights being disrupted with the storm.

Colin and Fiona – parents of Emily and Sarah Jenkins – said that "while we were initially very concerned by the news coming out of America regarding Hurricane Sandy, we know they are being well looked after by Leicester High School and their US hosts".

Sandy was due to hit the US East Coast between 5pm and 7pm local time yesterday – between 10pm and midnight in the UK. Due to collide with a storm moving in from the west and cold air from the Arctic, Sandy was expected to wreak havoc over 800 miles (1,287km), from the East Coast to the Great Lakes, with states of emergency declared from North Carolina to Connecticut.

Millions of people stockpiled supplies as the hurricane bore down on the East Coast, threatening to bring an 11ft storm surge of water, forced towards the coastline as a result of low pressure weather conditions, to New York. About 400,000 people were evacuated from parts of the city as Sandy approached. There were also fears the storm could cripple power lines.

A spokeswoman for Leicester High School, in London Road, which is on its half-term break, confirmed a group of its students was in New York but said nobody was available to comment further.

Campaigners have lost their fight to stop an outdoor education centre being sold.

The Friends of Aberglaslyn Hall group had hoped to take over the management of the site from Leicestershire County Council, but members were told yesterday their business case had been rejected.

As a result, the centre, in Snowdonia, will close on August 31, and the authority will put it on the market.

Roy Loveday, a spokesman for the Friends, said: "We are surprised and angered.

"Surprised because we have done everything the county council asked of us and more.

"We have produced a business plan with professional advice and, as a result, a number of business people have offered their services as trustees.

"We are angered because Aberglaslyn Hall is not a redundant piece of real estate.

"It is part of the living heritage of Leicestershire, one that has been delivering outstanding outdoor education for 50 years. Activities at alternative commercial centres do not begin to compare.

"We are angry, too, because this decision makes a mockery of the consultation which initiated our involvement.

"Ninety-two per cent of respondents wanted to retain Aberglaslyn Hall."

The group was told its plans were not viable because of concerns about regular income, staff costs and financial backing.

Nicola Langton's son, Jack, and daughter, Katy, have both been on trips to Aberglaslyn.

Mrs Langton, of Burton Overy, said: "They both enjoyed the experience. It's a shame for it to close.

"Even if there is somewhere similar in Leicestershire, it's not the same as going away."

Friends of Aberglaslyn members urged anyone who has been to or sent their children or grandchildren to the centre to sign an online petition.

Mr Loveday said: "We'll be presenting the petition to David Cameron since the county council has failed to uphold its commitment to a Big Society model for services."

In April, the county council announced it was selling Aberglaslyn and its Quorn Hall education centre, which received £330,000 in subsidies between them a year.

However, after a flurry of protests over Aberglaslyn, councillors agreed to give interested parties six months to come up with a business plan.

The authority plans to plough some of the money from the sale of both sites into Beaumanor Hall, an outdoor learning centre in Woodhouse.

Quorn Hall, which is on sale for £1.75 million, will stop trading on Christmas Eve.

It is not yet known how much Aberglaslyn could be worth.

Discussions are taking place with about 20 staff at Quorn and 10 at Aberglaslyn over redeployment and redundancy.

Byron Rhodes, county council cabinet member for resources, said: "Aberglaslyn and Quorn Halls have been heavily subsidised and we need to re-design services to make sure young people get the best experience.

"Our plans for Beaumanor will eventually offer schools a bigger and better package of outdoor residential activities."

People wishing to sign the petition can find it at:

www.aberglaslynhall.co.uk

Midfielder Matty James says he is determined to stake his claim for a regular starting place in the Leicester City side.

James was sent on from the bench after just 32 minutes of Saturday's 2-1 home defeat by Crystal Palace as manager Nigel Pearson made a tactical switch with his side 2-0 down.

"I have no problem not being in the side and I can't moan," said the summer signing from Manchester United.

"The team has been playing well and I have to just bide my time.

"It was an opportunity against Palace and it was hard going on as a substitute.

"Fingers crossed, if I get the nod against Watford on Saturday I can try to impress and stake my claim for a place in the team."

Whatever side Pearson puts out on Saturday at Vicarage Road, James believes there is enough quality within the City squad to hit back from the disappointment of losing their 100 per cent home record to Palace.

"This is a test of character," said James. "It was going to come and it is just how we react now. It is down to us now and this group of players are easily capable of bouncing back from this defeat."

James accepted that, against a strong Palace side, City had not hit the kind of form that had seen them string together six successive wins in front of their own fans.

He added, though, that there was no point dwelling on the disappointment.

"We have to hold our hands up and say that we weren't at the races," he said. "We have to try to move on.

"We haven't got a midweek game this week so we have time to recharge our batteries before going to Watford."

James was sent on as an early substitute for Lloyd Dyer on Saturday as Pearson attempted to give his side a foothold in the game after they conceded two quick goals from set-pieces.

"My instructions were to just try to shore up the midfield," he said "Palace had three in midfield and we were playing 4-4-2, and they felt we were getting a little over-run. I was there to try to stop their attacks, get on the second balls and try to play in their half."

The move was effective but, against such a well-organised side as Palace, City still struggled to impose themselves and Andy King's stoppage-time header proved only a consolation.

Curve is aiming to entertain audiences with a play by Leicester's most celebrated writers.

Entertaining Mr Sloane, Joe Orton's first stage work, will begin its three-week run with a live dress rehearsal tomorrow and a preview night on Friday.

The show will officially premiere next Tuesday.

The cast got together yesterday to try on their costumes and take a first look at the Curve stage.

Alex Felton, who plays Mr Sloane, said: "I really love Joe Orton's work. I saw my first Orton play – What the Butler Saw – when I was 16 and I've been a huge fan ever since.

"His work has had such an impact on my life and I recently read his autobiography, which I think has helped me understand the role of Mr Sloane a bit more."

The play is set in the swinging '60s and features the charismatic Mr Sloane, who is looking for a place to live.

He rents a room from Kath – a middle-aged landlady – who forces her feminine wiles on her new tenant. It was written by Orton, who was bought up in the Saffron Lane area, before moving to London to pursue his dream of being a writer.

The show has a cast of just four and features Andrew Dunn as Kath's brother, Ed, and John Griffiths as Kath and Ed's father.

It runs until November 24.

www.curveonline.co.uk

September 2012 sees the start of a year of celbrations for 2502 (Hamilton Squadron Air Training Corps,
as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary.

They started the year off in style by holding a Late Summer Ball.
The evening was attended by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire Major Geoff Simpson MBE TD DL and Wing Commander Nigel Dickinson OBE.
Who came along to celebrate with the cadets, staff and friends of the squadron at Park Hill Golf Course, Seagrave

At the start of the evening the Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant (Flt Lt) Andy Faulkner said a few words about the milestone that the squadron has reached saying that "the squadron has come a long way in 40 years and it is still growing and developing. Everyone says life begins at 40 so this is just the start for the squadron".  Several certificates were presented by both Deputy Lord Lieutenant Major Simpson and Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson to cadets for their efforts over the last few months, these included certificates for Heartstart, Entry Level Award in Health & Safety, Flight Simulator courses and a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award to Cadet Conor Fitzhenry (16).  Flt Lt Faulkner commented "this is the first Duke of Edinburgh award the squadron has awarded for a many years and but hopefully is the first of many more to come".  There was also a special presentation to the squadron from the cadet NCO's, they presented the Officer Commanding Flt Lt Andy Faulkner with a mascot.  The bear dressed in a 2502 uniform and beret called Barnaby.

The final presentation of the evening was made to Mrs Joan Rayson of Melton Mowbray.  Joan has been volunteering with the Air Training Corps for over 27 years, she has worked on the civilian committee's of a number of squadrons for number of year and has been with 2502 (Hamilton) for the past 5 years.  As she has now decided to retire, for the third time. Joan was nominated for a Lord Lieutenant's certificate and was presented with the certificate by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant.  Major Simpson commented "Joan had been awarded this certificate for all her hard work and dedication over the year.  Lord-Lieutenant's certificates are not given out very often but Joan very much deserves the honor"

The evening finished with a disco so the cadets, guests and staff could dance the night away.  Corporal Jake Elliott (15) said "It was an amazing night, I'm proud to be a member of 2502 Hamilton celebrating its 40th anniversary".  Sergeant Bethan Sault (17) said "It was such a good night once again, and hoped the squadron likes Barnaby Bear."

If you are aged between 13 and 17 and are interest in Joining 2502 (Hamilton) Squadron as they embark on their next 40 years.  They meet at Hamilton Community College on Monday and Thursday evenings.  For further details see our website www.2502sqnatc.com  or email contact@2502sqnatc.com.

The Melton Mowbray Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) held their annual Battle of Britain Commemorations.  The day started with the warmth of the early autumn sun shining on the parade as it formed up to pay their respects to "The Few".

The parade was well attended with many representatives from the local community, including veterans and members of the Melton and Rutland RAFA Branches, Royal Air Force Police section from the Defence Animal Centre, The Royal British Legion and representatives from the mayor's office, the local polish community, the Melton Town Estate and the local police commissioner.

The younger generation was well represented by a large contingent of over 60 Air Training Corps cadets and Combined Cadet Force cadets and staff.  Squadrons represented were 1279 (Melton Mowbray), 2248 (Oakham), 2502 (Hamilton) squadrons Air Training Corps and Ratcliffe College Combined Cadet Force.

 
The parade marched through the town centre watched by crowds of local people on its way to the Memorial Gardens.  Once there a short service was held and wreaths were laid to remember those who lost their lives in the Battle of Britain.

"Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by many to so few", Winston Churchill

The parade then marched back through the town to do a formal dismiss of the parade in front of the crowds of on lookers.

 
The day was then finished off with an evening service held at Sage Cross Methodist Church, attended by HM Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire Jennifer, Lady Gretton and representatives from the local community.  The Banners of the RAFA Branch, The Royal British Legion, 1279 (Melton Mowbray) & 2502 (Hamilton) Squadron Air Training Corps were paraded through the Church.  To conclude the day the Melton Mowbray RAFA Club held a reception for all the guests after the service.

Brenda Cox the Wings co-ordinator for the Branch said "It's been a very good day, even the weather has kept fine for us. It's really great to see the numbers of cadets growing every year"

It's approaching that time again when Leicester City Council next apply to the Magistrates' court for Council Tax liability orders.

This is only one of several applications made to the court each year. These are necessary to obtain legal paperwork enabling recovery staff to pursue struggling council taxpayers for arrears.

Once an order is granted, a number of options are available to enforce payment including bailiffs, attachment of earnings or benefits, bankruptcy and committal to jail.

Already, householders will have accrued £63 costs. The Summons comprises a court fee and the authority's administration costs. The court's fee is £3 for each application, whether or not Magistrates grant the order.

Last year saw 19,982 account payers summoned to appear at the Magistrates' court. This means at £63 for each summons, the costs raised by the council totalled more than £1.25 million – an average £104,905 a month.
An application for an award of costs is made at each court hearing for the Benches' consideration. Though in practice they have already been decided and a demand made around two weeks in advance of the scheduled court date.

Whilst the authority will have notified the Clerk to the Justices of these costs, the court may wish to be satisfied that the amount claimed by way of costs in any individual case is no more than that reasonably incurred by the authority, so although these costs have been predetermined they can be challenged in court.

Every householder has the right to attend the hearing and appear before Magistrates in accordance with Article 6 (right to a fair trial) of the Human Rights Act 1998.

A drug dealer who sold heroin and crack-cocaine to undercover police officers has been jailed for five years and seven months.

Abdi Osman (25) was caught in a police sting called Operation Saffron, aimed at clamping down on drug crime in the city centre.

Osman pleaded guilty to four counts of supplying heroin in Highfields, Leicester, in May.

He also admitted four counts of supplying crack-cocaine in July. Each of the street deals handed to officers was worth £15 to £20, said Alan Murphy, prosecuting.

Leicester Crown Court was told that Osman, of Maidstone Road, Highfields, had two previous convictions for drug dealing.

Sentencing, Judge Michael Pert QC said: "Class A drugs cause a lot of crime in this country.

"They cause misery and degradation and this has to be dealt with severely by the court."

In mitigation, Osman, a Somalian national, was said to have been dealing to fund his own drug addiction. His use increased after his father was killed in Somalia, the court was told.

Donal Lawler, mitigating, said Osman's partner was expecting their third child. Due to his "immigration control" status in the UK, he was not legitimately allowed to work.

A family has been left heartbroken after burglars raided their home and stole jewellery which had been handed down through three generations.

They were among eight victims in the past 10 days whose homes have been targeted by intruders looking for Asian gold.

Police say this is a higher number than they would expect for the period.

The force is to distribute thousands of crime prevention leaflets in the affected neighbourhoods, including Spinney Hills, Evington, Belgrave and Rushey Mead, in the next few days.

A member of the family, whose home in Westmeath Avenue, off Goodwood Road, in Leicester, was targeted, said: "It's been a devastating experience. It's hard to describe because we are still picking up the pieces.

"A lot of the items were of such sentimental value to us because they had been handed down through the generations from my grandmother to my mother to me.

"I have been reading about other burglaries and also the places in Leicester where people have had gold chains snatched from them and it is all very sad.

"The people who commit these crimes must realise what impact their actions have on people.

"It may only take a moment for them to do what they do, but the impact on their victims is massive.

"If anyone knows anything at all that may assist the police, please help us."

The intruders forced their way into the family home through its front door between 11.30pm on Saturday, October 20 and 2am the next day.

They ransacked the bedrooms before they found the jewellery, some designer clothing and a large amount of cash.

Det Constable Louise Osborne said: "This is a particularly upsetting crime which has left the family traumatised.

"Asian gold jewellery from several generations has been stolen and is irreplaceable."

Police are also posting 10,000 greetings cards, which also carry a basic crime prevention message, through doors in the Rushey Mead and Belgrave areas to tie in with the forthcoming Diwali celebrations.

Advice includes:

Photograph all items of jewellery individually and keep the photos safe.

Register your jewellery for free at www.immobilise.com

Buy a small safe and fix to a secure surface.

Where possible use a bank or safety deposit box.

Lock all windows and doors when asleep and when out of the house. Also, leave some lights on when you are out or buy a timer which will switch lights on and off at intervals.

Contact Det Con Osborne on 101 about the burglary or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

The National Forest Company is closely monitoring two million ash trees in its woodland for signs of a disease which has devastated the species in Europe.

The Government banned the import of ash on Monday in a bid to halt the spread of ash dieback – or chalara fraxinea.

The fungus has killed 90 per cent of ash trees in Denmark and last week officials confirmed it was spreading through East Anglia.

The National Forest Company manages 200 square miles of woodland in Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

It welcomed the Government ban, which it hopes will protect two million ash trees which make up about a quarter of its forest.

Sophie Churchill, chief executive of the National Forest Company, said: "The threat from the disease chalara fraxinea is potentially extremely severe for UK woodlands and landscapes.

"The ash is generally a robust and workmanlike tree, growing readily and used for tool handles and firewood.

"It is a very important tree in the Midlands.

"It is unclear whether the outbreaks can be controlled, but even if they are it is an immense task to stop the risk of infection through imports and to track any new outbreaks.

"We support the Government treating this as an environmental emergency.

"I am very aware many people and businesses have planted ash trees with us and they will be concerned about the survival of those trees.

"We will do all we can to protect them but I have to say the threat of disease will never be eliminated."

The National Forest Company said it had an ash dieback scare two months ago.

The suspect tree was linked to 500 infected specimens which have since been felled at the Birstall park-and-ride site.

Samples were sent for testing and the tree in the National Forest was given the all-clear.

Carol Rowntree Jones, a spokeswoman for the National Forest Company, said the ban on imports would affect planned planting schedules.

She said between 20,000 and 25,000 ash trees might have been planted this season.

"The ash tree is one of our primary trees when it comes to planting," she said.

"We will now divert to a different mix. More oak, birch and, perhaps, cherry."

The Government ban prevents ash trees and seeds being brought into the UK.

It follows an eight-week consultation which showed strong support for the move being put in place before the main tree planting season starts, in mid-November.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said: "This very serious disease demands action to stop its spread."

The issue of Hallowe'en and trick or treat is one that divides people. For many, it is simply children visiting family, friends or neighbours and indulging in a bit of harmless fun that results in them coming home with a handful of sweets.

Unfortunately, for many others, particularly the elderly and the vulnerable, it is a night filled with fear.

Hallowe'en trick or treat is one of those customs that has grown rapidly during the past few decades.

Twenty years ago, very few people were involved in the custom. It was simply an American tradition that we saw on our televisions.

Now, more and more shops are filled with costumes and supermarkets pile up the pumpkins.

In the best examples, the night has become a family event.

Young children supervised by a parent visit neighbours and friends and it is pleasant night for all those involved.

In the worst examples, the event is hijacked by youths expecting treats who are quite prepared to throw eggs, flour or abuse on a refusal.

It is not surprising, therefore, that it is a night filled with uncertainty for many elderly or vulnerable people.

They, quite rightly, don't like answering their doors to strangers after dark.

In past years, Leicestershire police have reported a whole series of problems associated with trick or treat night.

They have done a lot of work to try to minimise the problems and the situation has improved.

We hope that these improvements will continue.

That is why we are more than happy to carry a full-page poster that the police have put together for tonight.

The poster simply states: "No thanks trick or treaters. Please don't knock on this door as we do not wish to take part."

It is a simple, but effective measure if those involved heed people's wishes.

We have no wish to be killjoys and hope that those taking part have an enjoyable night.

Let's also hope that those taking part also honour the wishes of those not wanting to be part of the tradition and it is a peaceful night for all.

Posters can be downloaded here:

Trick or Treaters Welcome

No Thanks to Trick or Treaters

Trick or treaters have been urged to only visit homes where people are displaying a poster which says they are welcome.

Leicestershire Police and councils across the city and county yesterday launched a poster as part of a campaign to reduce anti-social behaviour on and around Hallowe'en.

One side of the poster says Trick or Treaters Welcome, while the other side's message is No Thanks to Trick or Treaters.

The poster is reproduced on page 18 of today's Mercury. Copies are also available at police stations, fire stations and council officers across the city and county.

Superintendent Mark Newcombe said: "We'd ask that those who go door-to-door in the good sprit of Hallowe'en be mindful that not everybody will want to join in. Look out for the poster and kindly miss the houses on your route which display the red-bordered poster with the 'No Thanks' message."

The poster has been designed and distributed by the Anti-Social Behaviour Delivery Group, which is made up of representatives of the police and authorities.

Damion Nickerson, of Leicestershire County Council's community safety team, said: "There is the option to display the green-bordered 'Trick or Treaters Welcome' message."

Last year on October 31, the force received 66 calls related to Hallowe'en.

Complaints about anti-social behaviour can be reported on 101.

Posters can be downloaded here: Trick or Treaters Welcome

"No Thanks to Trick or Treaters

Police hunting a thug who kicked a traffic warden in the head have appealed for help tracing his apparent accomplices.

The warden was knocked unconscious when he was attacked in Braunstone Gate, in Leicester's West End, two months ago.

CCTV of the assault featured in the Leicester Mercury, on BBC 1's Crimewatch and ITV's This Morning.

As a result, police have been passed 16 possible names for the man who carried out the attack. However, officers have now asked Mercury readers to focus on the two other men in the film – particularly the man wearing a cast on his arm.

Moments before the warden was kicked unconscious, that man appeared to spit in his pocket book. The attack happened at 12.10pm on Saturday, September 1.

Detective Constable Gary Dunnigan, of the police's serious crime team, said: "We have had a good response to previous appeals and we are working through the names which people have passed to us.

"So far, everyone has focused on the man who kicked the traffic warden, not on the two men he was with. We would like people to look at the other two men and really focus on them, particularly the man who had a cast on his arm.

"He appeared to instigate the incident by spitting in the warden's pocket book."

The attack was captured by CCTV cameras outside Bob Young's electrical store.

Mr Young said: "It would be brilliant if the men who did this could be caught. It was a horrible attack and I am sure this man would do the same thing again.''

The men – who are white, believed to be eastern European and in their late 20s or early 30s – walked away towards the nearby Tesco supermarket.

Contact Det Con Dunnigan on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555111.

Hundreds of pupils were forced to flee their classrooms after a fire broke out at a city junior school.

Catherine Junior School, in Belgrave, was evacuated shortly after 2pm yesterday, with youngsters leaving the building to see plumes of smoke spewing from the roof.

About 60 firefighters spent more than three hours battling the blaze at the Brandon Street school, while residents were urged to close their windows as thick smoke drifted over Belgrave for the second time in five days.

On Thursday, a shisha bar was destroyed in a blaze in Birstall Street 500 yards away.

The cause of the latest fire is still under investigation but workmen had been repairing the roof when the fire started.

The damage was extensive and the school will be closed until further notice.

As soon as the fire was discovered, the 400 pupils were moved to Catherine Infant School over the road.

"We thought it was just a fire drill because we have them once a month,'' said 10-year-old Eduard Persic, of Belgrave.

"But we went out and saw it was a real fire – at first just smoke and then flames.''

His mum, Carmen, said: "I was so scared when I heard about it. I don't think any children were hurt, luckily."

Taru Ruparelia went to collect her son, Prit, 10, from the infant school, but they were then unable to return to their home in Brandon Street for several hours because of the smoke.

It was so thick, police officers keeping the street clear wore masks over their faces.

Prit said: "We were in lessons and the bell rang and we ran out. Some of the lightbulbs popped. There were a couple of children coughing badly and it was really smelly but I wasn't scared.''

Dharmendra Valand, of Belgrave, rushed to pick up his eight-year-old daughter, Poonam. "A friend rang me. I was scared, obviously, and worried about how going through something like this might affect the children. When I got there I saw a lot of smoke coming off the building. It looked bad. The school had been having some roof work done over the holidays and it had still been going on."

Manjula Sood, a local councillor and assistant city mayor, said: "There were men repairing the roof at the time and the cause is being investigated.

"It's a very scary thing and it could have been much worse.

"Fortunately, we had a safe rescue of all the children and the emergency services did a wonderful job."

An city council spokesman said: "School management acted quickly to evacuate all pupils and staff safely.

"The school will be closed until further notice.

"Parents should await further information about when they will be returning to the school, or whether alternative arrangements will be required."

Andy King believes the cloud of last season's Achilles injury may ultimately have had a silver lining.

The Leicester City midfielder suffered the injury early in the year and was forced to spend an extended spell on the sidelines.

However, the 23-year-old Wales international has now returned fit and firing and looks back to his best – which means a regular supply of goals from the middle of the park.

King has four to his name already this season, a more than useful contribution from a midfielder.

His most recent, a well-executed stoppage-time header, might not have been enough to salvage Saturday's game against Crystal Palace but it indicated his eye for goal remains as sharp as ever.

"I feel refreshed," said King, who has now made 14 appearances for City this season.

"It was probably the first time in a few years when I have been properly taken out because of an injury and have been able to look at things from the outside.

"It is frustrating being injured and you really get that hunger back.

"I am really enjoying my football this season and I have come back stronger. I did a lot of stuff when I was injured and it is benefiting my game."

King added that the time spent recovering from the ankle problem had also allowed him to have a closer look at the way he played.

"Sometimes you need to take that step back and analyse your game and I did that," he said.

"I am just trying to improve my own game now and that is benefiting the team."

There is no question that King's return to full fitness this term is a major positive for City.

And although Palace spoiled their perfect home start at the weekend, there is no doubt that the spirit being developed in the City camp at present is a potent one.

They may not have been at their best against the south Londoners but that did not stop them pushing a strong Eagles side to the final whistle. On another day, they could easily have taken something from the game.

"Enjoying the game comes when you are top of the table," King said.

"You are going to enjoy your football having won so many games here at the King Power Stadium.

"There is no reason why we shouldn't be high on confidence. That is reflecting in our performances."

Schoolgirls caught up in the tropical storm that has battered the east coast of America have told of their night holed up in a hotel.

The teenagers from Leicester High School waited in their rooms in Times Square as fierce winds and waves buffeted the city.

A record 4m (13ft) tidal surge sent seawater cascading into large parts of New York's subway system, road tunnels and underground car parks.

A power sub-station exploded, one hospital was evacuated and fire destroyed 50 homes.

At least 16 people were reported dead across several states.

Sorcha Whyte, 17, from Market Harborough, said: "The worst part was waiting for the unknown.

"This was our first major storm and seeing the American news was alarming.

"Seeing the spread of darkness across New York as the power shut off was scary.

"Throughout the night there were fire engines whizzing up and down.

"Outside was a ghost town."

Before the storm struck the students, aged 15 to 18 stocked up with food, water, torches and batteries.

Sophie Upcraft, 17, said: "Lying in bed at midnight and hearing the silence then the beginning of the wind, with the lights flickering, was scary.

"We missed the power cut by three blocks.

"The sound of the wind was like a tube train. Eerie sirens can be heard every so often."

Angela Lancini, one of the four teachers with the party, said: "Fortunately, we missed the worst of it."

"But we were extremely lucky being in the middle of Manhattan as the high buildings sheltered us from the full force of the winds.

"We kept power on, although the lights flickered. The hotel told us to stay in our bedrooms and not to use the lifts.

"The seafront down by Battery Park and Ellis Island, which we had visited on Sunday, was badly affected."

Deputy head teacher Diana Wassell has been acting as a liaison between the pupils and their parents.

She said: "The girls have coped very well. They managed to get in vital supplies.

"The hotel has been marvellous, extending their stay and giving them advice."

Miss Wassell said the girls had managed to keep in contact with their parents on mobile phones and via e-mails, although internet connections had been affected by flooding.

The girls had to miss a tour of the White House but had seen the Broadway production of Mary Poppins.

Miss Wassell said: "Our priority is to get everyone home as soon as possible."

She said travel plans were in a state of flux as the airports were still closed.

She said: "The advice from the hotel is to stay indoors but our travel agent is looking to see if it will be possible to transfer to Washington."

The group was hoping to get a flight out of Washington today so they could arrive back in Leicester tomorrow.

Washington Dulles airport was hoping to accept incoming flights late last night and resume outbound flights today.

Leicestershire runners are still hoping to compete in the New York Marathon on Sunday.

Dominic Gomersall and his wife Kim, who run Lumbers jewellers in Leicester, are set to fly out on Friday.

Kim plans to celebrate her 50th birthday by completing the route on Sunday.

Mr Gomersall said: "We have been told the race is on and we are determined to get there and are to fly out on Friday."