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Fire crews rescue cow from canal near Wigston

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Fire crews rescued a cow that had fallen into the Grand Union Canal near Kilby Bridge, Wigston yesterday evening. The animal was spotted by a man walking his dog who raised the alarm shortly before 6.40pm. Two crews from Wigston and a specialist animal rescue team from Southern station went to scene. A fire service spokesman said: "Crew members got into the canal and helped to put straps around the animal and the water level was raised to the height of the embankment to float the animal. They then lead it to safety and it was checked over by the farmer."

Fire crews rescue cow from canal near Wigston


Live: Traffic and travel updates

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7.54am: Heavy traffic on the A14 near the Catthorpe interchange on the Leicestershire and Northamptonshire border.7.49am:Heavy traffic on M1 southbound between J22, A50 at Ashby and J21, M69 at Leicester.7.24am: Heavy traffic on A426 Leicester Road Blaby bypass in Blaby near the Northfield Park roundabout.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 @Leicester_Merc or email newsdesk@leicestermercury.co.uk

PM David Cameron forgives Manu Tuilagi for 'bunny ears' prank

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Prime Minister David Cameron has said he has forgiven Leicester Tigers centre Manu Tuilagi for playing a 'bunny ears' prank on him during a visit to Downing Street. The 22-year-old made the gesture with two fingers behind Cameron's head while posing for a photo with British and Irish Lions players on Monday. Tuilagi is writing a personal letter of apology to the Mr Cameron for the incident, but the Prime Minister has tweeted to say there is no reason to be sorry. "No need to apologise. I know it was just a bit of fun," Cameron said. Manu decided to write the letter after a photograph of the prank became an online sensation after it was tweeted on Monday night. Hundreds of comments have been made on Twitter about the prank by people around the world, with many dismissing the cheeky stunt as bit of fun and others criticising the player. Richard Cockerill, director of rugby at Leicester Tigers, said the club was not going to discipline Manu. "It's just stupid, isn't it," he said. "He's a young lad but he should know better. "I have reminded him of his responsibilities this morning. "I understand he apologised on Twitter but he is writing a personal letter to the Prime Minister to apologise for his behaviour, and rightly so. "He's in a privileged position and it's a very privileged thing to be able to go down to Downing Street and have that visit. "To do something as a bit of Jack the lad, he obviously meant no harm but clearly the profile that he has, you can't do that sort of thing. "I am probably more disappointed than anything else – as soon as he does it he knows he shouldn't have done it. He needs to understand that he's in the glare of the media the whole time, and certainly the Prime Minister is." He added: "Manu knows he's done wrong, he admitted it, he's put his hand up and publicly apologised and he will privately do so by writing to the Prime Minister. "That was Manu's decision." Fellow Lions, England and Tigers star Ben Youngs tweeted a picture of Manu giving Mr Cameron "bunny ears" last night. He posted: "The man @Manutuilagi just couldn't stop himself." But within hours, the picture had been withdrawn from Twitter and Manu had apologised on the social networking site. Manu posted: "Apologies for messing around on Lions photo. No offence intended. Great day at Downing Street. Thanks to Prime Minister for hosting us." Gloucester fly-half Freddie Burns initially tweeted: "Great bottle from Manu Tuilagi!" However, he later added: "Was not condoning Manu's actions in my tweet yesterday. Was just my immediate reaction to seeing the picture and was a poor tweet on my part." Tom Varndell, of the London Wasps, said: "Naughty boy @Manutuilagi !! But u did make me smile. Only you!" However, there were some who failed to see the funny side, including former England hooker and rugby pundit Brian Moore. He told talkSPORT: "My real objection is, it wasn't very inventive. "People are saying they are offended. Are they really offended, or is it more a case of Tuilagi being an absolute prat again and taking the attention away from his team-mates? "He has been a complete and utter prat. He ought to grow up, it's as simple as that. "But people saying they are offended - are they really offended? "The authorities, I'm sure, will do what they should do and say, 'Manu, everyone thinks you are a two-year old, do you really want that? Now go away and grow up please'." Retired England scrum-half Matt Dawson was even more scathing. He posted on Twitter: "Pls explain why doing bunny ears is funny on any photo. All it show is the bunny is more famous than u and u want the limelight. #insecure." An England RFU spokesperson said: "Manu has apologised for his inappropriate behaviour and for any offence this may have caused. "He has been reminded of his obligations in regard to the core values of rugby, which include respect and discipline." A spokesman for the Prime Minister's office said: "There has been an apology. That is all we have to say." He would not comment on the matter further. Manu and fellow Tigers stars Ben and Tom Youngs, Dan Cole, Geoff Parling and Tom Croft were at the Downing Street reception as part of the Irish and British Lions squad that won a series in Australia.

PM David Cameron forgives Manu Tuilagi for 'bunny ears'  prank

Man, 19, in court charged with murder of Antoin Akpom

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A teenager has appeared in court charged with the murder of Antoin Akpom.

Abdul Hakim, (19), of Wood Hill, Spinney Hills, Leicester, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during the five-minute hearing at Leicester Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Hakim is accused of murdering of 20-year-old Mr Akpom, who was found injured in Kent Street, Highfields, Leicester, last Thursday and later died.

Hakim did not enter a plea to the charge.

After the hearing, Hakim, wearing jeans, a white T-shirt and a blue sweat top, was remanded back into custody and will appear at Leicester Crown Court next month.

Relatives of Mr Akpom, who was a coach of a youth football team at Hamilton's Leicester Nirvana FC, were in the public gallery of the courtroom during the hearing.

They were also at the opening of an inquest later in the day which heard how Mr Akpom died from a single stab wound.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Cure told the hearing at Leicester Town Hall that officers were called to Kent Street at 5.38pm on Thursday, where they found Mr Akpom in the street.

He was taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary but died at 6.57pm.

Det Chief Insp Cure said a post-mortem examination had revealed the cause of Mr Akpom's death was a single stab wound.

The officer said Mr Akpom, who was born in London, was formally identified by his father, Ikenna Akpom.

Coroner Catherine Mason told Mr Akpom's mother, Cheryl Armatrading, his fianceé, Amba Riley, and other members of the family who were at the hearing: "Unfortunately, the circumstances we have here prevent me from giving Antoin back to you so that you can have the funeral and put him to rest.

"The police are working as expeditiously and diligently as they can so that I can give you Mr Akpom back as soon as is lawfully possible.

"You have my promise we will give him back to you as soon as possible."

She adjourned the inquest to a later date.

After the inquest, Mr Akpom's mother Cheryl Armatrading paid tribute to her son.

She said: "Antoin was a lovely caring son, father, brother and partner.

"He did so much in the local community that everyone who knew him loved him.

"He used football to bring people together. It did not matter who you were or what your beliefs or culture were, he just wanted to bring joy.

"I would like to say thank you to the community and beyond, because people have been so kind and so supportive to us as a family.

"I only want positive things to come out after Antoin's death. Part of me still can't believe what has happened or that he has gone.

"He might have been taken from us forever, but he will live forever in our hearts."

Meanwhile, police are still investigating whether there is a link between the death of Mr Akpom and the deaths of a mother and her three children, whose bodies were found by firefighters who attended a blaze at a house in Wood Hill, Spinney Hills, in the early hours of Friday.

The fire, which occurred a few hours after Mr Akpom was assaulted, claimed the lives of Shehnila Taufiq and her children Zainab, 19, Bilal, 17, and Jamal 15.

A 49-year-old man who was arrested as part of the murder investigation into the fatal house fire at Wood Hill, Leicester, was yesterday released from custody on bail.

Police were yesterday applying to magistrates for further time to question an 18-year-old arrested as part of the inquiry.

Three women, aged 19, 20 and 27, who were arrested as part of the investigation were released on bail on Monday.

RELATED ARTICLES Outdoor prayer service to remember five people who died

Man, 19, in court charged with murder of Antoin Akpom

Leicester Tigers v Newcastle Falcons - live

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It's the return of former Leicester Tigers favourite Dean Richards to Welford Road on Saturday. As big a game as it is for Tigers and Newcastle Falcons, the return of Richards adds extra spice and interest to the game. Deano is, of course, a true Leicestershire lad. The former John Cleveland College, Hinckley, pupil was a police constable in the county during the 1980s and 1990s before the game turned professional. The former England and British & Irish Lions star went on to become director of rugby at Welford Road for six seasons. Richards, who was banned for three seasons for the infamous 'Bloodgate' saga, will be returning with the newly-promoted Falcons. Ironically, he will not lock horns with Tigers boss Richard Cockerill, who is still serving his ban. Match-day commentator Mark Clayton will be providing details of the action, analysis of the game and how Richards is received back at Tigers. You will be able to put your questions, views and comments to Mark during the game using the interactive link on the match commentary panel. Some of those comments and tweets will be shared with the website audience. The action will start at 2.50pm on Saturday with all the pre-match build-up. You can be part of the action here.

Leicester Tigers v Newcastle Falcons - live

Teachers plan protest march on strike day

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Plans have been announced for a march on October 1 in the city by two teaching unions.

Earlier this month, the National Union of Teachers (NUT) and NASUWT revealed they would take strike action against pension changes and working arrangements.

Now, they have confirmed members will meet by the war memorial in Victoria Park, in Leicester, at 10am on the day, before marching down New Walk at 10.30am to Town Hall square.

It is not yet known how many schools will be forced to shut because of the action.

Ian Leaver, assistant secretary for Leicester's branch of the NUT, said: "We are still collecting information on which schools will be closed, but expect almost all will be.

"We also expect hundreds of teachers to join us on the march, along with their families and friends."

Singers Alun Parry and Grace Petrie will performing for marchers

Union leaders say that earlier strike action has already led to an improved pensions offer, but are pushing for more changes. They say they are being asked to pay in more for less return.

In November 2011 similar strike action closed hundreds of schools in Leicester and Leicestershire as part of the pension row, and in September last year, staff were asked to work to rule in a bid to force education secretary Michael Gove to the negotiating table. There was also strike action in July 2011.

It's believed NUT and NASUWT members make up about 80 per cent of the teaching workforce in the city and county.

The regional rally is expected to culminate in a one-day, all-out national strike before the end of the autumn term.

It will be up to individual head teachers to decide whether a school can remain open.

However, union leaders hope the early notification will give parents time to find alternative childcare on the day.

Councillor Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor for schools, has urged the Government to engage with the unions to find a solution to the long-running disput.

However, she said: "I fear this will not happen in the short term and the lives of families and the learning of our young people is going to be disrupted.

"A decision to close a school is a serious one, but governors may feel it is unavoidable. We will ask those schools affected to ensure they inform parents at the earliest opportunity."

Teachers plan protest march on strike day

Firefighters will strike following pensions row

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Firefighters will go on strike for four hours next week in a row over pensions.

At noon, on Wednesday, fire stations across the county will close as crews protest about Government proposals to extend their retirement age from 55 to 60.

A nationwide ballot held by the Fire Brigade Union saw about 80 per cent of its members vote in favour of industrial action.

It is part of a national clash between the Fire Brigades' Union (FBU) and the Government.

Some 46 fire authorities across England and Wales will join the strike.

Spencer Lambert, FBU secretary for Leicestershire, said: "We don't want to strike but our hand has been forced.

"We are sorry it has had to come to this and, hopefully, the public will understand it's a difficult choice."

Leicestershire Fire Service have assured members of the public 999 calls will still be answered during the strike and contingency plans have been put in place.

Ian Scarrott, deputy chief fire and rescue officer, said: "While any strike action is under way, our contingency plans will ensure the public will continue to receive an emergency response."

The Government has proposed firefighters should be made to work until they are 60 and maintain the same level of fitness as the rest of the service. The union is arguing it is unfair to expect older members to demonstrate the same level of physical dexterity as a 20-year-old colleague.

A Leicestershire firefighter, who has worked for the service for 15 years and did not want to be named, said he was in "genuine turmoil" over the subject of striking.

He said: "I did not join the fire service for financial reasons.

"The contract which I received, signed and returned, I almost saw as a handshake and foolishly took it as a given that it would be honoured.

"It seems that handshake meant nothing.

"I can't think of a worse way of letting the people of Leicestershire down than to take part in the potential strike action and just the thought of doing so puts me turmoil.

"I believe this not just an attack on serving members pensions and conditions, it is the start of undermining a public service you can rely on.

"Fireman aside, as a member of the public, I am alarmed at the proposals and fear for our future.

"For this reason I will reluctantly take part in the action in required and respectfully ask for your understanding."

Fire Minister Brandon Lewis said: "The decision by the FBU to take strike action is entirely unnecessary and avoidable.

"After two years of discussions, and with improved terms, the pension on offer to firefighters is one of the most generous public service pensions available."

Firefighters will strike following pensions row

Burglars steal money collected for RAF appeal

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Burglars have stolen cash destined to help serving and former RAF personnel.

More than £400, which was ready to hand over to the Melton branch of the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), towards the annual Wings appeal, was taken during a raid in Melton on Saturday morning.

The £417 was destined to help ex-servicemen and women, as well as RAF personnel serving in Afghanistan, to pay for mums and dads to record messages for their children.

The thieves struck at James and Brenda Cox's Dalby Road home between 9.45am and 11.10am.

At the time, Brenda was running a stall at the town market collecting for the appeal.

James, 65, said: "The money was in plastic bags behind a chair, ready to hand in.

"I had been down at the RAFA club in Asfordby Road and when I got home I found stuff scattered all over the place, a hole in the back window and a brick on the kitchen floor.

"They took jewellery belonging to Brenda's late grandfather and her engagement ring, a lot of sentimental stuff, along with my laptop.

"It's sick and sad to think people would have the gall to do this. The theft of charity money is beyond the bounds."

Brenda, 61, who is the branch secretary of RAFA, in Melton, and Wings appeal organiser for the town, said: "The money raised in the appeal is for the welfare needs of veterans and serving RAF personnel.

"It helps to subsidise housing for veterans but it also pays for serving personnel in Afghanistan to record stories out there for their little ones, so they can hear their father or mother's voice.

"It makes me cross, to say the least. They took my engagement ring, my grandma and grandad's wedding rings and my dad's wedding ring, all things of sentimental value – stuff you can't replace."

The jewellery is valued at about £1,100 and a Sony Baio laptop at £700.

Sergeant Kev Pulley, of Melton police, said: "Burglary is a despicable crime at any time, particularly for the victim, but I would hope the fact money destined for a charity has been stolen would prompt people to let us know, in confidence, any information they may have about this crime."

Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to contact Melton police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Burglars steal money collected for RAF appeal


Glenfield Hospital in groundbreaking high blood pressure research

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A tiny device could prove a lifeline for thousands suffering from high blood pressure, according to a top heart consultant.

Professor Andre Ng, a consultant cardiologist, carried out groundbreaking treatment to implant a device which measures less than 2cms and looks a bit like a paper-clip, earlier this week.

The procedure was performed on a patient at Glenfield Hospital, one of a handful in Europe taking part in the clinical trial.

If it proves successful, it could give hope to thousands of people who have high blood pressure which cannot be controlled with medication.

Prof Ng, Professor of Cardiac Electrophysiology at the University of Leicester, said: "Uncontrolled hypertension (high blood pressure) can lead to many other medical conditions with dire consequences.

"Patients with resistant hypertension have blood pressure way above normally accepted levels, despite multiple medication.

"We hope this groundbreaking treatment will provide a lifeline to patients who have had all the drugs prescribed and yet their blood pressure remains uncontrolled."

The key hole surgery, which took under an hour, involved fitting a Rox Coupler – a small metal stent.

The device acts like a paper clip, joining an artery and a vein, called the iliac vessels, in the groin area.

It allows blood to flow between the high pressure artery and the low pressure vein.

One hundred patients are being recruited to the study.

It is being carried out with support from the National Institute for Health Research an Leicester Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit.

Prof Ng said: "It is a very good example of how the university and Leicester's hospitals are leading research.

"Results from the pilot study already done on this latest technology look promising.

"We are now carrying out a randomised clinical trial and Glenfield is one of several centres here and in Europe.

"The results should be available in 2015 and, if successful, the treatment could be available soon after that."

The first patient in Leicester to receive the treatment was a 56-year-old man.

Prof Ng said: "Almost immediately, the patient's blood pressure went down to more acceptable levels."

Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

It is described as the "silent killer" as many patients do not have any symptoms until they develop complications.

The patient, who has asked to remain anonymous, said: "The procedure is remarkable.

"I know it is still early days but I have already seen a significant reduction in my blood pressure points. I am amazed."

For more details on the study, call 0116 258 3385 or e-mail:

kris.kenmuir-hogg@uhl-tr.nhs.uk

Dr Andre Ng explains the Rox Coupler device

Glenfield Hospital in groundbreaking high blood pressure research

Bill Maynard: Veteran actor to release new single, aged 84

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Bill Maynard - known for TV hits such as Heartbeat and Oh No, It's Selwyn Froggitt - is celebrating his six decades on the small screen by releasing a single at the age of 84.

The veteran star has recorded a version of What A Wonderful World, which he released on iTunes last week to coincide with the 60th anniversary of his first TV appearance – or so he thought.

As it turns out, a bit of memory miscalculation from Bill – backed up by a Radio Times of the day – revealed the actual anniversary is today.

He made his first TV appearance in the BBC's Face The Music on September 19, 1953, although he began performing even earlier.

Bill, who has also clocked up appearances in Carry On movies and comedy series The Gaffer, has made a number of recordings over the years.

He even entered the 1957 Song for Europe – the forerunner of the Eurovision Song Contest – coming fourth in a line-up of some of the country's best singers of the day with big band number Don't Cry Little Doll.

He said: "I have been making music for many years and I thought What A Wonderful World was a great way to put into words how lucky I feel to have been working in television for 60 years.

"I made a mistake about the date though. I thought it was the 12th, but a copy of the Radio Times from September 19th, 1953 proves I was wrong.

"Making people laugh and smile brings me a lot of personal satisfaction.

"I am delighted to be still in the entertainment industry doing what I love most, 76 years after I began my career. I have had an amazing career and I consider myself to be lucky to still have the energy and enthusiasm to take on work."

The track came about after Bill's agency sent him a backing track, and he laid down a demo at Quad Studios in Leicester.

"They then sent a producer to my home in Burbage, who came with all his equipment which filled my lounge, and we recorded it here about a month ago.

"I speak the words of the song, a bit like Telly Savalas when he recorded 'If'.

"I've tried to bring every bit of my acting experience into it, making it sound like the first time I've told the story – people tell me it's very emotional and makes the hairs stand up on the back of their neck.

"Now they're asking me to put together an album of the sort of songs that tell a story, such as Wonderful World, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Wandering Star and The September Song."

In the 1970s Bill was known for his role as the bumbling title character in sitcom Oh No, It's Selwyn Froggitt and in the 1990s he became known for his role as Greengrass in nostalgic drama Heartbeat.

Despite closing in on his 85th birthday next month, he's busier than ever.

He has been sent a TV script by stand up comic Tony Rutherford about a disabled multi-millionaire widower who becomes the target of an upper class escort agency out to scam people like him.

He is also working on a film, Broken Nation – a post-apocalyptic drama being filmed in London and Cumbria.

Bill Maynard: Veteran actor to release new single, aged 84

Suspect alleged to have rammed police car is still at large

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Police are still trying to trace a man who went on the run after allegedly ramming a stolen vehicle into a police car, injuring an officer.

Police believe Daniel Perry, 34, may be receiving help from fellow criminals.

The collision happened in Shepshed on Sunday, September 9. The officer in the police car suffered an injured arm.

Police are linking Perry, who is from the Shepshed area, to the incident.

Loughborough police commander Inspector Johnny Monks said: "We believe members of the criminal fraternity are giving him a roof over his head.

"I would like to remind them that if we find anyone harbouring this man they will brought in and charged with assisting an offender – something that can be dealt with by a prison sentence."

Officers had been tailing the stolen car from Whitwick and attempted to stop it when it reached Shepshed.

But the driver drove into a waiting police car and three other empty vehicles.

A female passenger was arrested while the driver, believed to be Perry, fled.

Earlier this month, Insp Monks described Perry as "one of the most active criminals in this area".

Contact Loughborough police on 101, or phone Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Suspect alleged to have rammed police car is still at large

Marcin Wasilewski aims to be a smash hit at Leicester City

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Manager Nigel Pearson says new signing Marcin Wasilewski is fully focused on becoming a success at Leicester City.

The Polish international signed for City on a one-year deal as a free agent after leaving Belgian side Anderlecht.

Wasilewski, capped 60 times by his country, has always wanted to play in England but there were fears it may not happen when he suffered a double open fracture of his right leg following a horrific challenge from Standard Liege's Alex Witsel, in August 2009.

Despite missing the rest of 2009-10 season, Wasilewski made a full recovery and helped Anderlecht to the Belgian title in 2010, 2012 and 2013.

"For anyone to recover from those sort of setbacks and still be as committed as he is, is testament to his drive," said Pearson, who added that the 33-year-old could be available for Saturday's trip to Blackpool.

"You don't have to be in his presence for long to realise how focused he is on being successful.

"It's all right getting the right players technically, but you have got to have the right mental qualities as well, and I think he brings the type of mentality that we look for.

"Whenever you bring in more-experienced players, they still have to have the drive and ability to cope with the demands of the game.

"I wouldn't have done the deal if he wasn't the right person."

The 6ft 1in defender, known as the 'Polish Tank', is Pearson's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Zoumana Bakayogo, Ignasi Miquel and Dean Hammond.

The City manager said Wasilewski is a good defender and will benefit the squad.

"It's a bit of added experience and he complements what we already have," said Pearson, who had the third-youngest squad in the Football League last season.

"We have got a generally young squad and I am pleased with the balance that we have.

"It's not just a case of we've got a young squad so let's get some experience in to balance it out, it's getting the right people in.

"I am a big believer in going with what you've got rather than trying to put together a group of players with the opinion that numbers are great. You can have too many players, so it's about having the right pieces to the puzzle."

UPDATE: New signing Marcin Wasilewski may have to wait for Leicester City debut Follow Blackpool v Leicester City live at Bloomfield Road on Saturday, September 21, 2013.

Marcin Wasilewski aims to be a smash hit at Leicester City

Driver cut free from car after two-vehicle crash

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Firefighters had to cut a driver from the wreckage of his car after a two-vehicle accident near a busy roundabout. Fire crews from Southern and Western stations had to cut a door of the car to release the man who was trapped after the incident near the Foxhunter roundabout in Enderby yesterday. The firefighters were called out at 11.14am. The driver was released by 12.27pm. The air ambulance arrived at the scene but was not needed. The freed driver and a woman were taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary by land ambulance. One lane on the island was closed and one carriageway of the B4114 in the direction of Leicester city centre.

Driver cut free from car after two-vehicle crash

When Manu risked wrath of 007

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Prime Minister David Cameron may have forgiven Manu Tuilagi for his "bunny ears" joke. However, the picture above shows the rugby ace has played the prank before on another high-profile victim. The photograph captures the moment the Leicester Tigers and England centre played the same stunt on James Bond actor Daniel Craig while he was in the British and Irish Lions' dressing room in July, after the team won their series against Australia 2-1. Manu, 22, caused controversy when he gave Mr Cameron "bunny ears" during an official reception for the Lions at Downing Street on Monday to celebrate their series win in Australia. The picture was tweeted and Manu posted an apology and said he would write a letter saying sorry to the PM. Mr Cameron then tweeted saying: "@Manutuilagi it was great to welcome you and the @lionsofficial team to No10. No need to apologise, I know it was just a bit of fun." Manu posted back: "Cheers for having a great sense of humour @David_Cameron always welcome around mine for dinner and to get me back!" Following the Cameron prank, photos of television screens paused at the crucial moment when Manu carried out the same stunt on Daniel Craig started doing the rounds on social networking sites. Alex Shaw wrote on Twitter: "If you've got the bottle to do it to the deadliest man in the world, why not the PM?" Manu has faced some criticism for his actions, including from former England hooker and rugby pundit Brian Moore. However, John Griffiths, chairman of the Tigers Away Supporters Club, said: "It was a joke. He didn't make a political comment, he didn't insult David Cameron – he is just a young man having fun. "He's a 22-year-old lad – three years ago he was still at school. All he's done is had a bit of fun in a formal situation. "I used to be a young rugby player and we played pranks on people, it doesn't hurt anyone. "The Prime Minister is probably very grateful for it to be honest – it's good PR for David Cameron. "If he did do it to James Bond, he was probably taking his life into his own hands."

When Manu risked wrath of 007

Two people taken to hospital after crash in North Kilworth

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Two people were taken to hospital after a car burst into flames following a crash. A man and woman were taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary after the two-vehicle incident on the B5414 Pincet Lane, North Kilworth, just before 8.30am yesterday. Firefighters from Market Harborough and Wigston tackled the blazing vehicle.

Half of De Montfort University students in Leicester to study abroad

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De Montfort University has launched a scheme to send half its students abroad to study or work at a cost of £1.5 million annually. It will see around 11,000 students learn in a foreign country as part of their studies. It says students will benefit from time at international universities and companies across the world, in countries such as Germany, China, Brazil and Australia. The university will subsidise the costs for students who will each be offered a programme tailored to suit their own academic needs, from a four-week placement offering intensive language training and cultural awareness, to a whole year abroad working with a global company. It is not clear yet how much each student would have to pay but this would depend how long they spent abroad and if they were studying or working. Education leaders say they are reacting to calls from the Government to ensure graduates are better prepared to meet business needs in a competitive global market. Professor Dominic Shellard, vice-chancellor of De Montfort University, in Leicester, said: "We applaud the recent announcement that UK students should be encouraged to broaden their horizons by travelling overseas to gain international experience. The Higher Education sector, Government and businesses must act together with all urgency to ensure swift and meaningful progress is made. "That's why De Montfort University - supported by a network of global business partners and academic institutions - is committing to offer a meaningful international experience to 50 per cent of its students in the years ahead, through our ground-breaking #DMUglobal project." Professor Shellard added: "We believe that immersion in other cultures, learning different languages, gaining new networks of friends and contacts, and the development of independence and resilience will add to students' personal enrichment and also ensure that they meet the needs of businesses now and in the future. "The time for decisive action is right now if we are to ensure that our graduates are able to assist British business to compete and flourish in a fiercely competitive global marketplace." A pilot programme will begin in the first quarter of 2014 and will accelerate in the following years. DMU film and journalism student, Zalak Bhogaita, 19, said: "I know some of my friends who went abroad to teach had a fantastic time. I'd be interested to do something like this to gain more skills for the future. I think it would definitely enhance my CV and potentially open up further job opportunities." Martin Traynor, chairman of Leicestershire's Chamber of Commerce, said: "This is a very welcome development. Something this recession has shown is that we are operating in a global market place, therefore our young people need to understand how other countries work. As highlighted in the CBI report, language skills in the UK are in deficit and we must address our linguistic skills among others." The university will be investigating ways in which students can gain credit in their modules by studying overseas. The full programme is due to be rolled out in academic year 2014/15.

Half of De Montfort University students in Leicester to study abroad

Part of garden fence and hedge destroyed by fire

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Part of a garden fence and hedge were destroyed after they were deliberately set on fire. A five metre section of fence and hedge was burned after the incident in Ervins Lock Road in South Wigston yesterday. Firefighters from Wigston were called out to tackle the blaze at 8.10pm and put it out by 8.27pm.

Part of garden fence and hedge destroyed by fire

Hoggard guard of honour is only County bright spot

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The opening day wash-out might have been frustrating, but it was nothing compared to what Leicestershire's bowlers endured when play did get under way at Grace Road yesterday.

Tuesday's deluge of rain was replace by a torrent of runs as Hampshire, having been put in to bat in County's final game of the season, reached stumps on 362-2 in a position of complete control.

Both Liam Dawson and James Vince helped themselves to centuries in a third-wicket stand which had amassed 248 by the close, a record against Leicestershire.

Dawson had reached 136 with his team-mate 145 not out.

It was simply a case of opportunity passing by County's seamers and, it could be said, the writing appeared to be on the wall from the first over.

On winning the toss, Niall O'Brien, captaining the side, had decided to send the visitors in to bat on the greenest pitch Grace Road has seen this season. It looked a reasonable enough option but when Michael Thornely spilled a catch at first slip offered by Jimmy Adams from the final ball of Matthew Hoggard's opening over there was a sense of what was to come.

Hoggard, in his final game before he heads into retirement, was given a guard of honour by his team-mates at the start of play.

That was the high spot of his day as he sent down 20 overs without taking a wicket.

That had hardly seemed likely in the morning session when, to their credit, Hoggard and Alex Wyatt bowled well but without any fortune as the new ball consistently went past the outside edge. Ben Raine did have Adams caught behind by O'Brien in the 19th over with the total on 50, but that was the sum total of Leicestershire's morning success even if they did make Hampshire scrap for every run.

The afternoon and evening sessions were a completely different story. Shiv Thakor trapped Sean Terry lbw for 57 at 114, but Dawson and Vince simply took centre stage and dominated long passages of play.

They were assisted by a loss of discipline from the home attack, who too often strayed towards the onside and were punished repeatedly.

The fact that Hampshire found the boundary on 52 occasions is one of several less-than-palatable statistics.

The third-wicket pair added 141 runs from 32 overs between lunch and tea, Leicestershire simply unable to apply any degree of pressure.

Dawson was the first to reach his century going to three figures in the 77th over, Vince following him in the next over. There was the odd semblance of a chance but Hampshire's batsmen ground down the bowling to the extent that only O'Brien and Greg Smith did not have a turn with the ball.

The fact that Raine conceded four needless overthrows off the final delivery simply summed up a dismal affair.

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Hoggard guard of honour is only County bright spot

Tory tells Sir David Attenborough to commit euthanasia

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A Tory councillor created a Twitter storm by suggesting that Sir David Attenborough should commit euthanasia. Phil Taylor, a councillor in Ealing, west London, posted his comment yesterday after the 87-year-old naturalist, who was educated in Leicester, said overpopulation often made sending aid to Africa futile. Mr Taylor tweeted: "I do wish this silly old fart would take a one-way trip to Switzerland. Practise what you preach." Mr Taylor was referring to the Dignitas clinic outside Zurich - well known for those wishing to commit assisted suicide. Angry people took to Twitter to criticise the councillor for his comment. Today Sir David said he was unaware of the matter. He said: "I don't know what you are talking about. "I haven't heard anything about this." Julian Bell, Labour leader of Ealing Council, responded to Mr Taylor, tweeting: "You can agree or disagree with Sir David but your comments are shocking and disgraceful! Apologise or resign!" Photographer Jane Salisbury posted: "What a horrible thing to say. Unnecessary." Sir David is patron of Population Matters – a charity which believes action needs to be taken to cut the number of people in our crowded world. In an interview with a national newspaper, he said population control was a "huge area of concern", adding that the world was "heading for disaster unless we do something". Giving the example of famines in Ethiopia, he said: "They're about too many people for a too-little piece of land. We say, 'get the United Nations to send them bags of flour'. That's barmy." The broadcaster also claimed that it was irresponsible to have a large family in today's overcrowded world and said humans were a "plague on the Earth". After posting the tweet, Mr Taylor said he did not mean to offend Sir David. He said: "I have created a bit of a storm with a comment I made on Twitter about David Attenborough. "It was an off the cuff, ironic comment and I didn't set out to make anyone miserable. "If David Attenborough is unhappy I am sorry. I don't suppose he expects to comment on such contentious topics as population control and not get a strong response. "The background to this is that David Attenborough has for many years been a patron of the Optimum Population Trust which now calls itself Population Matters. "My tweet reflected my frustration with Attenborough repeatedly using his "national treasure" status to promote a set of views that see people as being a problem. His prescriptions seem always to apply to other people. "My view of the world is that we have to work out how to make sure that the 9 billion people who will populate the world by 2050 all have a good life. "They all have hopes and dreams and don't need to be told what to do by Attenborough and his organisation. "I won't be discussing this incident any more."

Tory  tells Sir David Attenborough to commit euthanasia

Blackpool v Leicester City live

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Follow live coverage of the League Championship match between Blackpool and Leicester City live at Bloomfield Road on Saturday, September 21, 2013.
Leicester City are at the seaside for a big early season top-of-the-table clash. City sit second and Blackpool third, both on 16 points, separated only on goal difference. City will be hoping to keep a run of five wins in seven games going, but face a tough battle against Paul Ince's side. If you can't get to the seaside for the game, we'll be at Bloomfield Road with live text commentary from James Sharpe, with the announcement of the teams and pre-match build-up from 2.45pm. You can put your questions, views and comments to James during the game on the match commentary panel below or you can tweet him @TheSharpeEnd

Blackpool v Leicester City live

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