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Speedway: Leicester Lions' play-off dream could rest on crucial weekend double

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Leicester Lions face two crucial Bank Holiday fixtures which could make or break their Premier League play-off hopes.

Tomorrow they host the Berwick Bandits at the Jordan Road Surfacing Stadium (6.0) before travelling to Scunthorpe Scorpions the following day (3.0).

Lions lie seventh in the table and, with only five meetings remaining, need to muster as many points as they can to stay in contention.

They will have to do it without captain Kauko Nieminen, who is still troubled by the shoulder injury he picked up in the win at Redcar last week. As a result, Lions will operate the rider-replacement facility.

In addition, talented reserve Alex Edberg is struggling to shake off a problem with his left hand and will also be absent.

Ryan Douglas will guest against Berwick, while Edberg will test out his fitness tomorrow in the hope of making the Scunthorpe trip.

"After the win at Redcar last week, we are back in the frame for a top-six finish," said Alan Jones, co-promoter of the Harry Jordan Haulage-sponsored Lions.

"It is very much in our own hands now whether we succeed or not.

"There are two teams in the top six who are within our reach and we have to believe that we can overhaul one of them in the final reckoning.

"But to do that we have to gain all three match points against Berwick and go to Scunthorpe the next day and pick up at the very least a draw, which will give us another two match points.

"It is going to be tight but, if we duplicate the same 'can do' attitude as we did to surprise the Redcar team, then anything is possible."

A special rider will be remembered at the Jordan Road Surfacing Stadium tomorrow.

After the Lions' Premier League clash with Berwick, there will be a six-race event between the host's Lion Cubs and the Long Eaton Invaders for the Mick Spiers Memorial Trophy.

Spiers was born and bred in Leicester. He was a student at Gateway College and a member of the Knighton Fields Swimming Club, and part of their water polo team.

He was making good progress as a speedway rider with the Invaders' junior side when he died following a crash during a team training session in 1983.

His name lived on at Long Eaton, where a memorial trophy was raced for at junior level on eight occasions in the 1980s and '90s up until the stadium closed for redevelopment.

The original trophy has been located and recently returned to the Spiers family.

It is a replica of Spiers riding his speedway bike and will be on display inside the stadium's main entrance for fans to view.

Spiers' speedway colleagues, Darrin Hewitt and Mike May, together with his cousin, Steve Spiers, have helped arrange this event.

Alan Jones, Lions co-promoter, said: "When the idea of a memorial meeting was run past me I readily agreed.

"I am sure the two teams will put on a good show for Mick's family tomorrow to mark the 30th anniversary of his death."

Speedway: Leicester Lions' play-off dream could rest on crucial weekend double


Pressure will be on Leicester City, says Birmingham boss Lee Clark

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Leicester City will be around the promotion places this season, believes Birmingham City boss Lee Clark.

He admits that this places big expectations on his City counterpart Nigel Pearson and his squad.

The Blues manager, talking at his weekly press conference yesterday, was asked about his opponents.

"One of the top teams in the division, they will be there or thereabouts come the end of the season," said Clark.

"There is big expectation on them, they've got a manager who can handle that expectation, strong-minded. He has got quality players, a quality group.

"But I have got quality players who can go there as well and play against them. They will enjoy it.

"Some of these lads who haven't been there before will go and enjoy that."

Birmingham, who are beset by financial and off-the-field problems, have not enjoyed the best of starts.

Although they won at Championship newcomers Yeovil, they have lost both their home games – against Watford and Brighton.

City, meanwhile, are unbeaten having picked up seven points, although Pearson feels their performances have left room for improvement.

"You say performances haven't been very good, but they've picked up seven points from nine," said Clark.

"So I know who has been driving home the happiest at six o'clock on a Saturday – Nigel more than me.

"I think they are a good side, they've got a lot of energy, with good young players.

"The difference with their young players is that they've come from Premier League clubs, or Championship clubs.

"A lot of mine have come from clubs not at this level.

"So there's a comparison in age, but I am not doubting any of my players.

"I think they can compete at this level, it's those fine margins we know have to be in our favour."

Birmingham are also likely to play a 3-5-2 formation at the King Power Stadium.

The only change from last weekend's defeat against Brighton is likely to see the return of striker Matt Green for Andy Shinnie up front.

Pressure will be on Leicester City, says Birmingham boss Lee Clark

Winning is all that matters for Leicester City striker David Nugent – even if it's 'ugly'

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Leicester City striker David Nugent could not care less if his side have to "win ugly" – as long as they keep picking up the points, he is happy.

City have made an unbeaten start to the season with two wins and a draw in the Championship and a place in the Capital One Cup second round, despite being nowhere near their free-flowing best.

It is in stark contrast to the last campaign, when City dominated early games against Charlton and Blackburn, playing some excellent football, but came away empty-handed on both occasions.

This season, City have been made to grind out their victories while looking extremely solid at the back, having conceded just once in their first three league games.

"I'm happy with the start of the season," said Nugent.

"Two wins and a draw in the league, and a win in the cup – you can't really argue with that.

"We started off so well last season but weren't getting the results, whereas this year we aren't playing as well as we can and are still getting the results. I will take that.

"We know we can play better. When that day comes, I'm sure we will start turning teams over but, at the moment, I will take winning ugly over anything.

"The fans might be a little bit disappointed that we're not playing well but, when you are picking up three points, that's all you can do. It's about winning games.

"As long as we are getting the three points, who cares."

Nugent said the ability to win ugly is massive in such a tight league like the Championship.

Last season's champions Cardiff won 17 of their 25 victories by a one-goal margin, with seven of these coming by a 1-0 scoreline.

"This league is so tight that, if you get consistency, you will be up there no matter what," said the former England international.

"You have to go on runs, so if we keep playing ugly and winning, then I'll take it. It's the mark of a good team.

"If we are still getting the three points, then no-one cares because all you see is the three points come the end of the season.

"If it stays like this, we won't be complaining."

Nugent also admitted he is still not back to full fitness after suffering a calf and quad injury during pre-season.

"I'm still not 100 per cent yet but, hopefully, these next couple of games I can get my match-fitness and start banging in the goals," he said.

Winning is all that matters for Leicester City striker David Nugent – even if it's 'ugly'

Birch on the Ball: Historic win will give us a lift for big Blues clash

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This afternoon we welcome Birmingham to the King Power Stadium. In my playing days, they were a frightening outfit – they had the biggest defence you have ever seen in your life.

From this 17-year-old whipper-snapper's point of view, they certainly didn't hold back verbally or physically.

I remember they had a little left-winger called Gordon Taylor, who has since become chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA).

It makes me smile thinking back to when I signed my first contract as a 17-year-old lad, and purchased my PFA tie and blazer, complete with the big, shiny badge.

I went straight out to the old Locarno dance hall in Sheffield showing off my brand new gear, only to be hauled into the manager's office the next morning to receive the biggest rollicking you've ever seen.

He only found out I had been on the town because I had stupidly got PFA written all over me. That certainly taught me an early lesson.

We approach today's game with some history under our belts.

Our victory against Derby last week was the first time in the club's history we have won our first two away league games.

It really shook me that. The first time in 129 years – what a great achievement that is.

I would like to congratulate Nigel Pearson and the boys. That is something special.

In fact, it is three away games if you count the Capital One Cup.

I think it is fair to say the boys are not firing on all cylinders just yet, but the attitude has been absolutely fantastic, especially watching them throw themselves in front of the ball all afternoon at Derby.

We are not in top gear, yet we are still able to come away from places like Middlesbrough and Derby with victories.

If we can hit our straps, which we know we are capable of doing, it bodes well for the season.

I've got to mention my nightmare journey back from Pride Park.

There I was, doing exactly 70mph on the outside lane of the M1, coming up to the Castle Donington turn-off when I get a blow out on the back near-side tyre.

To come down from 70 to try to get into the hard shoulder was nerve-wracking to say the least. All of a sudden, the police turned up and coned off one of the lanes as all the City fans flew by, pipping their hooters.

The elder of the two policemen said he recognised me. It turns out he was a Notts County fan.

I had gone on loan there at the end of my time at Filbert Street. They were my father's team, and I wanted him to be able to say his son had played for them in his lifetime.

I told the policeman that was at the back end of my career and I wasn't very good then.

He turned to me and said, "You're right, you weren't".

I eventually got home, covered in grease and oil, and jumped into the shower, only for the pump to blow up.

With a day like that, it's a good job we beat Derby.

I don't know how much there will be to report next week as you might be getting my column from inside a hospital bed.

During the last few years, people have seen me struggling with my end-of-season stumble, so I've decided it is time to get my back sorted once and for all so I can complete my 34th run at the end of this campaign.

It was all the batterings I took in the '60s and '70s from the bad pitches and infamous hatchetmen, who were allowed to roam the leagues in those days.

I played with one, the legendary Ron 'Chopper' Harris. Despite being his team-mate, he nearly put me in hospital on my first day of training at Chelsea. I still wouldn't change a thing though.

Birch on the Ball: Historic win will give us a lift for big Blues clash

Liam Moore is living the dream at hometown club Leicester City

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Leicester City defender Liam Moore believes he is "living the dream" playing football for the club he has supported all his life.

The 20-year-old, who was born in Loughborough, has come through the ranks at the King Power Stadium having dreamed of playing for the first team since the age of six.

Moore, who made his first-team breakthrough in January last year, has been the stand-out performer in the last two Championship games.

He was pivotal in City's 1-0 victory against East Midlands rivals Derby last Saturday, and was the shining light in an otherwise dull 0-0 draw with Leeds.

It seems certain he will be handed another chance to impress this afternoon when City face a Birmingham side who have picked up just one win in their three Championship matches to date.

"I am very lucky to be a local lad and playing in these games," said Moore, who achieved international honours with England Under-21s last season.

"I said in pre-season that I want to get as many games as I can, at the highest level I can, and so far I've made a few appearances and I'm happy with that.

"To come and play in local derbies like Derby, like Nottingham Forest, there is that extra bit of pride.

"I remember the adrenalin from the Forest game at the end of last season – Derby last week wasn't far away from that.

"A lot of people have said to me that I'm living their dream and, luckily, I believe I am."

Moore will have another Midlands derby on his hands this afternoon when City welcome Lee Clark's men to the King Power Stadium.

"You enjoy these local derbies a little bit more, especially as a Leicester lad," said Moore, who attracted interest from Manchester United last summer when Alex Ferguson sent a scout to watch the youngster in action.

"It perhaps means more to me than lads who don't live so close to here.

"But you can see it means a lot to them because they are throwing their bodies in the way and we are grinding out results."

Liam Moore is living the dream at hometown club Leicester City

Armed robbers raid jewellery shop in Groby

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Three robbers threatened staff at a designer jewellery shop with a baseball bat and a crowbar before escaping with a "substantial" haul of stock.

The men, who were wearing masks, targeted Cathy Stephens Jewellery, in Groby, yesterday morning.

No members of staff at the Ratby Road shop – which was robbed in 2004 and burgled in April – were hurt. It is not known whether any customers were in the shop.

The men targeted the shop at 10.45am and escaped in a dark Audi estate car which was parked outside the shop.

Groby's county councillor and retired police officer, Ozzy O'Shea, said: "I'm glad nobody has been hurt. We don't know at this stage whether these men are professionals or opportunists."

Villagers and nearby traders said they were not that surprised the crime had happened.

John Nash, manager of Mark Jarvis betting shop, which is opposite the jewellers, said: "I'm not shocked at all. The jewellers was targeted earlier this year and, between then and now, both banks have been done."

Greg Wilson, owner of nearby Wilson and Sons newsagent, said: "It's a bit of a concern but I'm not shocked."

Villager Katie Suffolk, 31, said: "It's a little village, so it's not the best of things to have happened.

"Sadly, it almost seems like the norm now."

Police have appealed for help in tracing the gang.

Detective Constable David Tunnicliffe said: "We would like to ask residents, or people travelling through the area, who may have seen anything suspicious in relation to this robbery to please contact us.

"Perhaps you saw the men in the area before the robbery? Or maybe you saw the men make off from the location.

"Any information could help with our investigation, so please get in touch."

Contact Det Con Tunnicliffe on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Armed robbers raid jewellery shop in Groby

Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson wants to turn the King Power Stadium into a fortress

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Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson has stressed the importance of making the King Power Stadium a fortress.

An unbeaten City welcome Birmingham this afternoon (3.0) as they look for a first home win of the season.

Pearson's side drew 0-0 with Leeds in a rather dull affair in their opening home game, and the City boss said his men will be out to put on a better performance.

Last season's champions Cardiff showed incredible consistency on their own turf, losing just twice at home on their way to the title.

Reading lost four at home two seasons ago, and QPR also lost just two the season before that.

Newcastle made St James' Park an impossible place to go when they romped to the title in 2009-10 – they never tasted defeat in front of their home fans during the season.

Pearson said it is vital to make it difficult for opposition sides to play at the King Power Stadium.

"It's always important to make your own ground both enjoyable for yourselves to play in and uncomfortable for your opponents to play in," said Pearson.

"Our players have got to enjoy playing at home, so it is important that we get our own performances right.

"Doing that and dealing with what opponents throw at you, you've also got to be able to deal with the expectation of playing at home.

"We feel that we have, generally speaking, played pretty well at home, so we intend for that to continue. It's important for us."

Pearson was visibly frustrated at aspects of his side's performance at the end of their 1-0 victory against Derby last weekend, and has been quite open in the fact there is plenty of room for improvement.

But while the performances may have been lacking, the results have not, with City grinding out seven points from a possible nine.

"If you had to take one thing, you'd take the result," said Pearson. "But it would be nice to get both.

"I don't want to sound like we've not played at all well this season. In most of the games we have played, there has been some good football.

"What we've not done really is put together a complete performance. That's being a bit greedy, but that's what you should aspire to do."

Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson wants to turn the King Power Stadium into a fortress

Gardens earn recognition

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Tenants of Charnwood Borough Council have been awarded for keeping their gardens looking good.

The garden competition was open to any council tenant or leaseholder and prizes were handed out for the winners in four categories.

The winners were Claire Kasher, of Sileby, for the best home; The Mills in Quorn, which won best communal garden; John Farmer, of Shepshed, won the best hanging basket or balcony, and St Peter's Court, in Syston, picked up the award for best sheltered court garden.

An outstanding achievement award went to Philip and Eleanor Dews, of Anstey.

High street vouchers were awarded to the winners.


Big Lottery Fund: Readers to vote in £250,000 cash giveaway

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It's time for Leicester Mercury readers to choose which good causes and projects will benefit from a lottery bonanza.

We are asking you for your help deciding the destination of a whopping great £250,000 worth of grants on offer from the Big Lottery Fund.

Our judging panel faced the tough task of selecting the 16 strongest entries from dozens of projects changing people's lives for the better.

They include community gardening, fitness and healthy eating initiatives, mentoring projects, carer support and building renovation work.

All 16 projects will be featured in the Mercury over the next fortnight, with readers asked to vote for their favourites by filling out and sending in the coupon printed below.

"We've had an amazing response from community organisations hoping for their share of Lottery funding," said England Big Lottery Fund director Dharmendra Kanani.

"Through our partnership with the Leicester Mercury, we want you to help us decide where £250,000 goes to support projects which will deliver the spirit, imagination and aspirations of communities.

"Let's get ready to see people-powered change in action."

The groups with the most votes will be awarded grants of between £10,000 and £30,000 until all the £250,000 Big Lottery Fund money has been spent.

Winners will be announced on Monday, September 23. Mercury editor Richard Bettsworth said: "The 16 entries on our shortlist each demonstrate the fantastic and varied work being undertaken in communities across our city and county.

"We believe this funding can help make a real difference to people's lives.

"But it's up to you, our readers, to decide which group will get the help they seek to put their plans into action."

The Big Lottery Fund is responsible for giving out 40 per cent of the money raised for good causes by the National Lottery.

It is committed to bringing real improvements to communities and the lives of people most in need, and since June 2004, has awarded close to £6 billion of lottery funding.

Since 2004, the Big Lottery Fund has funded 575 projects, totalling £21,806,355, in Leicester and 761 further projects to the value of £20,965,394 across Leicestershire.

Last year, it awarded £2,159,282 to 60 city projects – and made 64 grants totalling £3,107,200 in the county.

Volunteers created a community garden at Hamilton library, in Leicester, thanks to a £6,129 grant from the fund.

The Jerome Project, named after the patron saint of libraries, was led by the New Shoots Gardening Club founded by Graham and Clare Cole.

Hamilton librarian Val Smith told the Mercury: "It was such a 'wow' moment when we sat down with the designs last September, knowing that we had got the funding to go ahead with the garden."

WHO'S IN THE RUNNING?

1 Action Homeless Leicester. £14,538 to transform a playroom into an interactive area.

2 Apex Leicester Project Ltd. £13,350 to stage art courses and workshops improving prospects of young unemployed people.

3 Confederation of Indian Organisations, Belgrave. £10,207 to educate the South Asian population about heart disease risks.

4 Homestart Leicester. £28,500 to set up healthy eating groups for families.

5 Kibworth Grammar School Hall. £20,974 for a heating system, roof repairs and renovation of kitchen and toilets.

6 Leicester Masaya Link Group. £20,000 for residents' gardening, home-cooking and physical exercise project.

7 Leicestershire Carers' Choirs. £19,092 to set up choirs in Oadby and Wigston, and Bosworth for carers across the city and county.

8 Neighbourhood East Parent/Carer Forum. £16,100 to develop health project for families in Rowlatts Hill and North Evington, Leicester.

9 New Futures Project, Leicestershire & Rutland. £30,000 to employ a staff member to work with young people at risk of/or suffering from sexual exploitation.

10 Stigmaart Ltd, Wigston. £29,918 to staging arts events and exhibitions in Leicester city centre featuring work by people with mental health problems.

11 The Bridge, Loughborough. £29,280 for a new mentoring and advice service for homeless and vulnerable people attending The Bridge housing charity.

12 The Centre for Fun and Families Limited, Leicester. £10,400 to set up groups helping parents manage troublesome teenagers, and supporting teens with mental health issues.

13 The Old School Hall, Barlestone. £15,000 overhaul replacing leaky roof of former Victorian school hall, now a community centre.

14 Vista Leicester. £27,709 for photography competition, choir project, art workshop and sensory impairment awareness training during Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival.

15 Woodgate Residents' Association, Leicester. £12,500 to start up choir, run music workshops and stage concerts for under-18s.

16 Work-Link Project, Hinckley. £24,606 for pilot scheme involving people with learning difficulties making furniture using reclaimed wood.

THE BIG LOTTERY FUND VOTING COUPON IS IN YOUR LEICESTER MERCURY TODAY.

Big Lottery Fund: Readers to vote in £250,000 cash giveaway

Leicester Pride festival: Rainbow of colour brightens city streets

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The most flamboyant fixture in the city's social calendar brought a rainbow of colour to the streets of Leicester at the weekend.

Leicester Pride festival was opened with a parade starting from Curve theatre, where hundreds of supporters waving rainbow flags and banners met to start the party.

After snaking its way through Humberstone Gate to the Clock Tower, the parade then took a turn up High Street, through the Lanes and up New Walk, before reaching the carnival destination of Victoria Park.

There, musicians and dancers performed on stage to keep festival-goers entertained throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

Friends Alice May and Kelsey Bryan were among those taking part in the parade.

Alice, 21, of Glen Parva, said: "We're both straight but we come because it's fun."

Kelsey, also 21, of Nottingham, said: "My best friend is gay but he's running late so I'm doing it for him."

Levi Biddiscombe, 17, donned a Free Hugs placard around his neck for the event.

The teenager, who travelled from Kettering to take part, said: "I'm not gay myself but I came down to support my gay best friend, Ryan. Everybody's equal, no matter what their sexuality, and no-one should be treated differently to anyone else.

"I'm giving out hugs just for a bit of fun, really. I like hugs." Friend Ryan Custance, 17, also from Kettering, said: "I like Pride because it's a good day out. There's lots of hot guys here as well."

Among the paraders was a group from Leicestershire Police's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) network, who were all wearing T-shirts bearing the slogan Policing With Pride.

Inspector Emma Gilbert said: "It's great to get everyone out together to spread the message that it's okay to be who you are.

"This is my first Pride and I think it's brilliant."

Friends Matthew Bloomfield, Jacquie Smith and Lewis Williams said they were enjoying the day.

Matthew, 17, of Melton, said: "I'm straight but I'm here supporting my friends. I think it's a really good event to help support the gay people of Leicestershire, and it's a great social event as well."

Lewis, 18, of Nottingham, said: "It's all about being proud of who you are. It's amazing to be here.

"The turnout is amazing and it's great to see so many people who are so enthusiastic about it all. I'm bisexual but no matter what you are, it's about letting the people of Leicestershire know you are proud of your sexuality."

Jacquie, 19, of Melton, said: "I'm gay and I take part because I want to make a difference. I want to be a part of something big and spread the word. Gay marriage shouldn't even be up for question – why should it be a problem in the first place? We're all human.

"I enjoy taking part. I feel at home. It's nice to be welcomed and to be a part of something, to be accepted for who you are."

Julia O'Connell-Davidson and her civil partner, Jacqueline Sanchez-Taylor, were enjoying the celebrations with their six-year-old daughter, Alfreda Barroso-Taylor.

Julia, 53, said they were reminded of the importance of the Pride festival as they travelled back from a trip to Spain the day before the event.

"We were stopped and asked about our relationship," she said. "We said we were a family and that Alfreda was our daughter. But we were questioned about it. We've been in a civil partnership since before she was born."

Julia said: "We're not recognised as a family, though. Alfreda's comment afterwards was: 'I bet he's never been to gay pride'."

Lerise Bradford, 20, of Braunstone, was volunteering at Victoria Park.

She said: "I've been to every Pride since it began – I've lost count of how many. I'm lesbian and it's important to show we're proud. It's a fun day."

Leicester Pride festival: Rainbow of colour brightens city streets

Adoption time is cut in bid to cope with demand

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The time taken for adults to adopt children is to be cut by more than half to cope with more children ending up in care.

Leicestershire County Council has slashed its targets and now aims to assess potential adopters in six to eight months.

The process used to take about 18 months, which was better than the national average, but too long to meet new Government rules.

The council also needs more adopters and foster carers following a 25 per cent rise in children in care over the past two years.

In Leicestershire, there are 14 children waiting for adoptive parents, including seven under twos and four groups of brothers and sisters.

An open evening will be taking place tonight for people wanting to find out more.

Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Adoption is a lifelong commitment and is about providing a child in care who cannot return home with a permanent and secure family.

"We know some people have been deterred by the length of the application process, so we hope the swifter timeframe will encourage potential adopters to think again."

Anyone can be considered, regardless of their relationship status or whether they are in employment.

The open evening takes place between 7pm and 8.30pm at County Hall in Glenfield.

To find out more, call 0116 305 3051.

Richard III: 'No evidence to say king wanted a burial in York'

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A University of York historian has said no records exist proving Richard III wished to be buried at York.

Professor Mark Ormrod has considered what is known about the Plantagenet monarch and concluded that not enough historical evidence exists to be able to confidently say he wanted to be buried at York Minster.

It comes as the Mercury has launched a campaign to keep the royal remains in Leicester, after a High Court ruling cast doubt on where the bones will be reinterred.

A judicial review was granted after an application was made by the Plantagenet Alliance, who want the king buried in York.

We are asking people to sign a petition to show their support for reinterring the king at Leicester Cathedral. It has so far been signed by more than 13,000 people – with more than 1,000 of these being added over the weekend.

Writing an article for the university, Prof Ormrod said the assumption Richard planned to be buried in York stemmed from the monarch's plan to found a college of priests at that city's cathedral.

However, it was never built.

Prof Ormrod said: "Some historians have jumped to the conclusion that the college was also intended to be a royal chantry and that the king wished to buried in the minster.

"There is, however, no direct evidence Richard III had any definite plan for his own burial, at York or otherwise.

"It would certainly have been unusual in 1485 for a king of England to be buried in York."

Prof Ormrod's conclusion is echoed by Leicester historian, David Baldwin, who said Richard would have been more likely to have chosen Westminster Abbey over York Minster.

He said: "The only thing to be said in favour of Richard's York chantry, which never came into being, is that it would have been larger than any of his other proposed foundations – but it is more likely that he would have chosen to be buried with his wife in Westminster Abbey.

"Another more likely option would have been burial with his brother King Edward at Windsor, or with his parents and brother Edmund at Fotheringhay."

The Plantagenet Alliance, a group of people claiming to be related to the king, said that relatives should have been consulted before the University of Leicester was given an exhumation licence, which allowed it to decide on reburial.

The licence was granted by the Ministry of Justice before the excavation began.

Two weeks ago, a High Court judge agreed to allow a judicial review to take place but suggested the matter should be decided by an independent advisory panel rather than a court.


GET INVOLVED: How to show your support To show your support for the Mercury's campaign sign the petition here: epetitions.direct.gov.uk It takes just a few minutes and readers will need to provide an e-mail address when signing the online document. If you know anyone who does not have access to a computer they can sign a paper version of the petition, which can be found at the reception at the Leicester Mercury offices, in St George Street, Leicester, from Monday.

Richard III: 'No evidence to say king wanted a burial in York'

Plea to make sure school applications are on time

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Parents are urged to look out for school place application packs.

From next week, about 12,500 parents will receive forms through the post for children who transfer to secondary school in the autumn term 2014.

Leicestershire County Council is reminding parents that moving to the next school is not automatic and is encouraging them to apply before the October 31 closing date.

The transfer process is the same for a local authority school or a recently-converted academy.

If parents apply late their child is unlikely to get a place.

Anyone expressing a preference for a non-catchment school is urged to also apply for a place at their child's catchment school.

Councillor Ivan Ould, Leicestershire County Council's cabinet member for the children and young people's service, said: "It is very important all parents apply on time to give their children the best possible chance of being offered a place at their preferred school.

"Last year, we were very successful in meeting parents' preferences but as always, late applicants run the risk of disappointment as schools do become full."

Online applicants will receive an e-mail acknowledging receipt and be able to view the decision on March 3, 2014.

To find out more, call 0116 305 6684 e-mail or visit:

www.leics.gov.uk/admissions

admissions@leics.gov.uk

Plea to make sure school applications are on time

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: View from the stands

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Pre-season friendlies are difficult, for the fans, for the coaching staff and the players.

The fans like to see the team in meaningful action.

Ulster provided that, so one tick in the box in what was an entertaining day at Welford Road.

Worrying as it must be to send out their charges, the coaches know they need to see the way things are shaping up in a real match environment, however, the issue of losing a player to injury in essentially a meaningless game causes grey hairs.

On that front, there was possibly the worst result with captain and fly-half Toby Flood taken to hospital on a stretcher after only 15 minutes – a scenario probably featuring in Richard Cockerill's worst nightmare.

Time will tell how big the damage will be to Tigers' season, both on the basis of length of absence and how well the replacements step up.

For the players, the threat of injury is a worry, while at the same time the competition for places means that no-one can coast because nothing is guaranteed.

It was a dream day for Ryan Lamb, given an opportunity by Flood's injury, he grasped it with both hands, prompting the backline and managing the game superbly throughout.

His fizzing passes, which have too often led to interceptions in Northampton colours if you listen to their fans, came off.

While there will be stiffer tests, the feared defensive frailty, for those remembering his issues with Alessana Tuilagi, did not manifest. It was a very good day at the office.

Overall, the performance was not far from what one would expect. The forwards still have a little pre-season in their legs and the backs looked sharper than at the equivalent point last season. One back-handed pass from Scott Hamilton would grace any highlight reel and the willingness to run when the move was on, regardless of the position on the pitch, was refreshing.

Mele, arriving with high expectations, was everything expected and will prove a genuine challenge for Ben Youngs.

So, the biggest worry is injuries. However, Tigers' signings have been excellent and our hopes are high.

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: View from the stands

Appeal over jewellery theft

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Police have appealed for help tracing a man who stole a large collection of jewellery from a house in Coalville.

A dog walker called police after he heard the Meadow Lane home's security alarm and saw a man running away.

A large quantity of white gold and costume jewellery was taken, including a Pandora bracelet, cufflinks, earrings and necklaces.

The burglary happened at 3pm on Thursday, August 22.

Detective Constable Julia Newton said: "The victim has been left extremely upset by the burglary.

"The items which have been stolen are of great sentimental value.

"We are appealing for anyone who may have any information regarding this incident to contact us.

"We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was approached by a man in the area selling block paving."

The suspect is white, 5ft 10in to 6ft, medium build with broad shoulders.

He is thought to be in his 20s and has close cropped dark hair and slight facial stubble.

He was wearing a shiny black coat, jeans and trainers and carrying a cream bag.

Contact Det Con Newton on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Appeal over jewellery theft


Bus lane fines plan is dropped

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Plans to fine motorists who stray into a bus lane in city streets have been shelved.

Officials from Leicester CIty Council had intended to install an enforcement camera in Rutland Street earlier this year to try to stop drivers entering the bus-only zone.

The camera would have been the third in the city centre and would have followed those in Causeway Lane, near the Highcross shopping centre, and in Charles Street.

They were put in place in June last year and since then have caught more than 30,000 drivers generating about £1 million in fines.

Motorists have complained the enforcement is simply a tool to make money for the council.

That is denied by the authority which insists all income is ploughed back into transport projects and that the cameras have improved bus punctuality and shortened journey times.

City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby has said the Rutland Street camera plan has been dropped for the time being.

He said: "It has been put on the shelf. I think the case for the Rutland Street camera hasn't quite been made.

"I want to see, over a longer period, what happens with the enforcement in Causeway Lane and Charles Street.

"In those two areas, the problem of cars in bus lanes is much greater.

"If the enforcement there is successful and people stop abusing the bus lanes then and only then would I consider a camera in Rutland Street.

"If we were to put one in Rutland Street we would probably generate fines but motorists would question whether there is a problem that needs solving.

"The purpose of enforcement is not to raise money."

Driver Paul Sharpe, 22, from Braunstone, said: "I wouldn't have a problem with cameras in all bus lanes in the city centre.

"I don't get fined because I don't drive in them. It's that simple.

"I read a letter in Mercury from a man who was complaining he didn't see the signs but they are pretty clear to me."

Earlier this year, a council scrutiny committee investigated the new enforcement regime.

City council transport officers are gathering information from other cities where this has been tried to determine whether such an approach should be adopted here.

Bus lane fines plan is dropped

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: David Mele interview

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French scrum-half David Mele seems to have had little trouble in building an understanding with his new team-mates.

The 27-year-old joined from Perpignan in the summer and has already ran in two tries in the last fortnight, the latest coming in Leicester's 30-10 win over Ulster on Saturday.

Both of those scores were almost exact replicas of the other as he called a quick release from the back of a scrum and took advantage of a two-on-one with flanker Julian Salvi.

Mele is relishing his role in the No.9 shirt and has clearly developed a good understanding with his colleagues both on and off the pitch.

"I saw some space on the blindside and there was only a scrum-half for defence, so I called for Julian Salvi to play with me on a two-on-one," he said.

"We scored exactly the same try last week. It was a good feeling. Maybe we can score the same next week as well.

"It's good for me to build an understanding with guys like Julian. I am trying to do everything I can in English, which was tough at first, but it is much easier now. I will get better over time too.

"I have a good feeling for everybody here and I try to speak with everybody to try and make myself better.

"In France, we learn basic English but here, there is a Leicester accent and there are also foreigners who speak English with their own accents. It was tough at first but now, it's good."

Mele has every chance of being involved when Tigers begin their Premiership season against Worcester on Sunday.

With some good form behind him and still no sign of Ben Youngs, the Frenchman looks likely to be on the bench at the very least.

And he says he and his new team-mates can't wait to get going with the serious stuff after getting a Welford Road debut under his belt.

"I enjoyed it very much. It was an awesome atmosphere for a friendly game.

"When we played friendlies in Perpignan, they would get around 5,000 people so to have 17,000 was totally different for me."

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: David Mele interview

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: Martin Crowson's match verdict

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It was a game that was always going to be overshadowed by the sight of Toby Flood laying motionless on the Welford Road turf, just 10 minutes in.

After Tom Price's injury there last season, few people needed a reminder of just how brutal a game this can be at times.

Flood took an arm to the face while trying to tackle Ulster lock Dan Tuohy and was knocked unconscious immediately. Tuohy was yellow-carded.

There was a 12-minute delay while medics dealt with an injury that started to look extremely serious when an oxygen mask was strapped to his face.

The Tigers skipper was taken to the Leicester Royal Infirmary across the road for tests, scans and all sorts of precautions.

While Flood's "thumbs up" picture from his hospital bed - posted on Twitter on Saturday night at least proved he was back in the land of the living, he is almost certain to miss at least his side's Aviva Premiership opener against Worcester next Sunday.

Hopefully, Flood will be able to get over the mental barrier of being knocked unconscious in two of his last three games for the club.

His previous appearance before the win in Jersey was last season's Premiership final, which he left before half-time. At least on that occasion, he could leave the pitch without help from a stretcher.

It was only a few weeks ago that Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill was basking in the glory of an almost fully-fit squad. Yet with a week to go until the start of the season, there was still no sign of British & Irish Lions Manu Tuilagi and Ben Youngs on Saturday.

Mat Tait and Miles Benjamin are unfit for action. Ed Slater and Matt Smith are very doubtful and Graham Kitchener has a foot injury.

Scott Hamilton left the game limping, while Marcos Ayerza and Gonzalo Camacho are away with Argentina.

Already there are 10 players either ruled out or with questions marks to their names – before a ball has been kicked in anger.

On the plus side, Ant Allen and Louis Deacon looked strong on their return to action, Niki Goneva looked a man-made replacement at outside centre if Tuilagi is rested and Ryan Lamb's Welford Road debut brought immediate forgiveness for wearing a Northampton Saints jersey for the past two years. Lamb's critics may have feasted on his erratic form in the past, but this performance was not only consistently full of good decisions, it also contained some of his trademark spectacular.

Some superb vision saw long passes evade opposition fingers by a fraction to reach their intended target.

His kicking from hand was good and his goal-kicking smooth.

His three first-half kicks were sandwiched by two excellent tries.

A daring move that began in Leicester's 22 ended with Niall Morris showing confidence and pace to run in from distance before David Mele scored after a link up with Julian Salvi.

It was 18-3 to Leicester at half-time, then Allen added a third try after sublime work by Scott Hamilton in the build up.

Chris Henry dragged a score back for the visitors, who Tigers will play in the Heineken Cup in October, only for new lock Sebastian De Chaves to finish things off with Leicester's best move of the day late on, in which Dan Bowden and Neil Briggs starred.

Tigers were workman-like in a scoreless opening quarter either side of Flood's injury but they clicked nicely at times.

Even without their skipper and talisman, this was a nice welcome home present for over 17,000 supporters.

Leicester Tigers 30 Ulster 10: Martin Crowson's match verdict

X Factor judges bowled over by prison officer Sam

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X Factor started its 10th series with a bang at the weekend – and there was one person everyone was talking about following the shows.

The judges – and millions of viewers at home – were wowed by Leicester prison officer Sam Bailey, who performed a powerful rendition of Beyonce's Listen on the first show on Saturday night.

Gary Barlow, Sharon Osborne, Louis Walsh and Nicole Scherzinger gave a standing ovation to the 35-year-old mum-of-two.

Fellow auditioners also gave a round of applause as Sam provided the show-stopping moment of the show.

As all four judges gave a resounding "yes" to put her forward to the next stage, Louis asked: "Where did that voice come from? I wasn't expecting that at all! Wow."

Fellow judge Nicole said: "I'm like, what – you're a prison officer?"

Gary said: "Oh my god, your voice is incredible. Cuff me, it's a yes."

Earlier, Sam gave an interview to camera, saying: "I think I'm a bit too old now – but you've got to at least try.

"Everything goes away when I sing. This could change my life."

Asked by the judges how she felt after her performance, she said: "Emotional."

Sam is reported to have revealed that inmates at Gartree prison, where she works, watched her perform on the ITV show.

Following her performance on Saturday – tipped to be just the start of her X Factor journey – she is already getting a taste of fame, with a fan page being set up on Facebook and her Twitter following shooting up from just over 400 to more than 2,800 in less than 24 hours. By mid-afternoon yesterday, the YouTube clip of the audition had been viewed by more than 213,000 people.

Celebrities including Coleen Rooney, Andrew Castle, Boy George, Alan Sugar and Dawn O'Porter were among the hundreds tweeting about her.

Coleen simply posted the word "Goosebumps," while Boy George tweeted: "Love the prison officer, Sam, bloody beautiful. Yes, yes, yes and another yes!!"

Alan Sugar posted: "Sam on X Factor. Does she sing the prisoners to sleep at night? Looks like she could give them a good left hook also," to which she replied: "Not quite, Alan."

Sam was due to perform again on last night's show, which saw the contestants who made it through on Saturday singing again in front of an audience at Wembley.

It is understood she is under contract, so is unable to talk about her X Factor experience so far.

However, entertainment agent Angela Thomas, who has booked Sam for shows in the past, hinted she would go far.

"I was so proud of her," said Angela. "She was awesome and I think there's a lot more to see of her yet."

Even though the series has just started, bookies William Hill are already offering odds of 6-1 on Sam winning the show.

In a teaser on the X Factor website, it says the overall winner could already have been found.

Posing the question: "Is The X Factor 2013 winner in episode one?" It goes on to say judge Nicole seems to think so.

"There's someone very special," she said. "She is where it's at. She is unbelievable, she's a prison warden and completely unassuming.

"There isn't anything she can't sing. She was the first one to bring to tears to my eyes."

Do you think Sam will win X Factor 2013? Vote in our poll on the right of this page.See more pictures from Sunday's show click here.

X Factor judges bowled over by prison officer Sam

Charlton 2 City 1: Rob Tanner's match verdict

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Darren Deadman is a referee who seems to court controversy, certainly when officiating Leicester City games.

The Cambridgeshire official upset City boss Nigel Pearson at Ipswich last season when he said Wes Morgan was elbowed before making the mistake that cost his side dearly at Portman Road.

Two years ago, it was Deadman who showed Darius Vassell a red card after just 11 minutes of the opening game of the season at Coventry, the first of 14 he handed out during that campaign.

However, while Deadman is an official who seems to spark controversy wherever he goes (just google his name), City should not heap the blame on the officials for their first defeat of the season, no matter how odd some of the decisions seemed to be.

For the fifth time in seven games, City started slowly and had to fight back after going a goal behind to a soft set-piece.

They were the architects of their own downfall in many ways, although they typically produced a spirited response to going down to 10 men.

City conceded both goals from corners, ironically scored by two ex-City players, Michael Morrison and pantomime villain Yann Kermorgant, who has scored three times in three games against his former club since his infamous penalty in the play-off semi-finals at Cardiff.

City just didn't deal with the delivery of the set-pieces. Ritchie De Laet lost Morrison for the first, while Kermorgant was again given space at the far post to head home the second.

Goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel appealed for a foul in the build-up to both goals, and was booked for remonstrating after the second, but he was clutching at straws, especially with Deadman.

City's first half performance was disappointing. While they never looked in any real trouble defensively against a Charlton side looking for their first win of the season, they didn't trouble their hosts either.

City's build-up play was ponderous and predictable during a first half which was a poor spectacle for the 15,542 in The Valley, more than 2,000 of whom were wearing blue.

As usual this season, City started the second half in lively fashion and should have equalised when the impressive Jamie Vardy teed up Danny Drinkwater, but keeper Ben Hamer saved at his feet, and James picked up the rebound and appeared to be bundled over just as he teed up his shot.

Deadman wasn't interested and while James had a point that it should have been a penalty, racing towards an official with Deadman's reputation was a poor choice, especially as Deadman had booked James as early as the 12th minute for a mis-timed tackle.

The act of running towards the referee left Deadman considering it enough to dismiss James, who is the most unlikely City player to be punished for dissent. The quiet, softly-spoken and humble midfielder isn't your usual candidate for dissent. That is usually Anthony Knockaert and David Nugent's domain.

It was backs-to-the-wall time and City showed their true character after that, creating a host of chances, even after Kermorgant's header for the second.

Drinkwater reduced the arrears after more good work from Vardy and suddenly the game had gone from extremely dreary to exhilarating, none more so than when Schmeichel produced a breath-taking save to somehow palm Kermorgant's strong downward header away from virtually on the line.

Even then Deadman had to steal the moment by bizarrely awarding a corner when Simon Church's follow-up hit the post.

City were certainly aggrieved by the way the game was officiated, but they should feel a little more aggrieved that they allowed their excellent start to the season falter in The Valley.

Charlton 2 City 1: Rob Tanner's match verdict

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