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Woman, 54, taken to hospital with head injury after being thrown off horse in Leicestershire

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A 54-year-old woman suffered a head injury after she was thrown off a horse.

Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) was called to the Charnwood area of Leicestershire yesterday at about 10am,

The air ambulance crew helped East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) treat the patient.

The woman was then taken to the Queen's Medical Centre, in Nottingham by ambulance.

Details about her condition have not been released.

To volunteer for the air ambulance or to make a donation, visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk.

Woman, 54, taken to hospital with head injury after being thrown off horse in Leicestershire


Man, 54, who collapsed in Melton treated by air ambulance crew

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An air ambulance was called after a 54-year-old man collapsed in Leicestershire.

Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance landed in Melton Mowbray on Saturday shortly before 3.30pm, to help with a medical emergency.

The helicopter landed in a street close to the incident. The patient was given advanced life support by the air ambulance crew.

He was then taken to the Queen's Medical Centre, in Nottingham by ambulance for further treatment.

DLRAA is appealing for new volunteers to join their existing team.

Each mission costs around £1,700 to run, and the charity relies on public donations and volunteers to keep their service flying, as they receive no government funding.

To find out more about volunteering or to make a donation, visit www.theairambulanceservice.org.uk.

Man, 54, who collapsed in Melton treated by air ambulance crew

Isis blamed for hacking US Central Command's Twitter account

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Social media sites of The United State's Central Command have apparently been hacked by a group claiming to support the Islamic State.

Their Twitter and YouTube accounts have been hacked and, according to the BBC, one message said: "American soldiers, we are coming, watch your back."

It was signed by Isis - a name for the Islamic State.

The Twitter account was later shut down.

The hack happened as President Barack Obama was giving a speech on cybersecurity.

According to the BBC, his spokesman Josh Earnest said the US is looking into the hacking.

He said they were investigating the extent of the incident, and that there was a significant difference between a large data breach and the hacking of a Twitter account.

Isis blamed for hacking US Central Command's Twitter account

The Big Question: Should parking on pavements be made illegal?

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A charity which campaigns for the streets to be made safer for pedestrians is calling for parking on pavements to be outlawed across the country.

Living Streets says that while pavement parking is against the law in London and some parts of the UK, the law is unclear elsewhere.

Living Streets' chief executive Joe Irvin said: "Pavements are not car parks. Pavement parking is a nuisance for everyone, but if you're older, have mobility problems or impaired sight, it can force you into the road and into danger. It's not just the public who are confused; often local authorities and police forces are unclear over who is responsible, which means the issue fails to be addressed.I

He spoke out as MP Martin Horwood's 'pavement parking bill' received its second reading in the House of Commons.

Mr Irvin said: "Martin Horwood's bill is a perfect opportunity to enact clear legislation which would make walking safer and easier for everybody."

Do you think pavement parking should be made illegal across the country? have your say in our poll, in the right hand column on this page. The results will be published in the Mercury on Saturday.

The Big Question: Should parking on pavements be made illegal?

Man bites off doorman's nose during night out at Liquid Envy

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**WARNING: SOME OF THE ABOVE PHOTOS CONTAIN GRAPHIC CONTENT**

A doorman suffered a devastating injury when the end of his nose was bitten off as he tried to escort a man from a nightclub.

Aaron Jackson (21) underwent four operations to rebuild his nose and is having another on Thursday.

He attended Leicester Crown Court to see his attacker, Sanchez Moore, plead guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

The case was adjourned for a psychiatric report and the 26-year-old, of Church Street, Earl Shilton, will be sentenced next month.

He was released on bail, but warned to expect a "significant" term of imprisonment.

The attack happened at the Liquid Envy club, in the city centre, on June 21 last year.

After the hearing, Mr Jackson said: "At the time, of course, I was in shock but over the long term the seriousness of the incident really sunk in as it changed my life completely, I had two loves in life which were training and work and in one fell swoop they were both taken away from me."

"I haven't had a proper life for six months, my life has been on hold.

"I'm relieved he's pleaded guilty.

"It should never have happened.

"Because the missing section of my nose could not be saved, it has been reconstructed."

Aaron said: "My family have been great and friends have looked after me and I appreciate how brilliant they've been."

Of the incident, he said: "There was a fight on the dance floor and I was assisting to remove him from the premises.

"We were wrestling around at bit and there were lots of people everywhere.

"Someone else grabbed my arms and then he bit me.

"There was a lot of blood and people were screaming in shock when they saw me, asking what had happened.

"The ambulance didn't arrive so a policeman took me to hospital.

"Looking in the mirror is a constant reminder.

"Consultant surgeon, Mr Khawaja Rauf, is top notch – I feel blessed to have him as my surgeon."

Part of the complex reconstruction process involved Aaron growing an extra section of skin on his forehead, which caused him to have a swollen facial bump for several months.

He has been left with permanent scars.

Hal Ewing, prosecuting, told the court: "As Mr Jackson attempted to eject Moore he had him in a bear hug.

"Moore took hold of him similarly and during a struggle he immediately bit the end of his nose off."

The court heard Moore claims the doorman initially punched him twice, although not forceful – which was not accepted by the prosecution.

Helen Johnson, representing Moore, said that any punch thrown could not amount to provocation.

She said: "It couldn't in any way lead to a proportional reaction and he (Moore) didn't behave in a proportional way.

"We don't say it was self-defence.

"What happened didn't justify the way he reacted, there were other things the defendant could have done that he chose not to do."

Aaron's next operation this week will determine whether or not the nose reconstruction has been successful.

Aaron's mother, Carla Jackson, 47, said after the hearing: "He's been unable to work and had to sell his car and possessions because he had no money coming in.

"He's always stood on his own two feet and now is being supported by family.

"He's had to wear a scarf or balaclava on the rare occasions he goes out – it's devastated him."

Bursting into tears, she added: "This is my son, look what he's done to him.

"We're trying to be as strong as we can."

Aaron spent his 21st birthday last Sunday quietly at home.

His mum said: "We'll make sure he gets to celebrate properly for his next birthday."

Aaron's grandmother, Dawn Brotherton, 71, said: "He's been marvellous and never complains.

"He's never moaned about not being able to go out like other young men.

"Aaron has been so brave, he's my first grandson and I'm incredibly proud of him."

Detective Constable Chrissie Hitchin, who investigated the incident, said: "The injuries sustained by the victim are probably the most horrific I have seen during my career in the Force, this was a nasty assault on a man who was only doing his job.

"The victim has been scarred for life and has undergone a number of medical treatments and is due to have a further operation later on this week.

"The victim has been spared the ordeal of re-living the events of that night in the court room but unfortunately he will never forget what happened and his reflection in the mirror is a constant reminder of that, but hopefully the conviction and subsequent sentence will help reassure him that justice has been done."

Man bites off doorman's nose during night out at Liquid Envy

Thousands of fish saved after pollution hits Grand Union Canal near Fleckney

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Many thousands of fish have been saved as work continues to combat pollution in a five-mile section of the Grand Union Canal.

Staff from the Environment Agency and the Canal and River Trust and contractors have been removing fish from the affected area and raising oxygen levels in the polluted stretch near Fleckney.

Thousands of fish died when slurry from farmland seeped into the canal over a week ago.

The Canal and River Trust closed the waterway between Kibworth and Kilby Bridge lock to prevent the pollution flowing upstream towards Foxton.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said: "All parties involved have been working hard over the weekend and the Canal & River Trust has again saved many thousands of fish.

"The next stage is to dilute the ammonia in the polluted water with fresh water to ensure that the quality of the water is suitable to be released downstream."

Pumps have been used to inject oxygen into the water to dilute the impact of the ammonia.

Thousands of fish saved after pollution hits Grand Union Canal near Fleckney

Sydney's marathon effort for cancer charity

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A teenage girl who fought cancer as a child is taking on a marathon challenge for charity.

Sydney Cook, from Sileby is hoping to raise £2,000 for Cancer Research UK.

The 18-year-old has also been chosen as one of the charity's 26 "inspirational ambassadors" - one to represent each mile of the marathon course.

She is hoping to complete the race within five hours.

Sydney, who is studying hairdressing part-time at Loughborough College as part of her apprenticeship at Oasis hair and beauty in Sileby, was eight when she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia four days before Christmas 2004.

She said: "I only remember bits of it, but I had a kidney infection that wouldn't go away and my mum kept taking me to the doctors.

"Then, just before Christmas, it looked as though I'd had a stroke because my face just dropped."

Her mother, Salli-Ann, took her to Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Sydney said: "They thought I had Bell's palsy, but then they did some tests at the hospital and that's when they discovered I had cancer."

Doctors also found a tumour on Sydney's spine.

After undergoing an intensive six month course of chemotherapy treatment, Sydney then had 14 sessions of radiotherapy to her spine and brain which ended in June 2005.

She said: "My hair used to be halfway down my back, but I lost it during the chemotherapy and then again when I had radiotherapy.

"I was quite upset because I was a young girl, but in the end it didn't really bother me that much."

To help her cope pupils, staff and parents at Seagrave Village Primary, where she was a pupil, raised more than £6,000 to send the family to Florida to swim with dolphins.

On her ninth birthday, in 2005, Sydney heard that her cancer had gone into remission.

She is now hoping to complete the London marathon on April 26 within five hours.

Sydney said: "Cancer Research UK is very close to my heart.

"My family was devastated when I was diagnosed with cancer but thanks to research I am still here today.

"The marathon is one of the most exciting running events in the world and I am really delighted that I will be part of it for the first time.

"Pounding the pavements has definitely been challenging at times but it is so motivating to know that the money I raise will help to save lives.

"I am counting down to the big day."

Sydney's marathon effort for cancer charity

Hundreds of street drinking confiscation order signs placed around Leicester

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More than 200 signs have gone up around Leicester warning street drinkers that police may confiscate their alcohol if they are causing trouble.

The signs publicise an order, passed by Leicester City Council, granting officer more powers to deal with drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour.

The order is not a ban on street drinking but permits officers to confiscate alcohol being consumed in any street if the drinker is causing trouble.

It came into force on January 1.

There were a number of specified parts of the city already which already had such a rule but it now extends over the entire city.

Councillor Sarah Russell, assistant city mayor for neighbourhood services, said it was still too tell what results the order had had in street drinking hotspots such as park.

She said: "The first steps are to communicate order and make it clear that anti-social street drinking is not acceptable.

"We have noticed it a lot less in Town Hall Square where it was a problem."

A police spokesman said: "We are fully behind these new powers and we will use them appropriately.

"Currently it is not street drinking season. It's wet and cold and that means it tends to be less of a problem. There are fewer people sitting out at lunch time reading a book or something to notice street drinking when it does happen.

"It is something we will keep an eye on as the weather approves."

In total 241 signs have been placed around the city and the council has spares should any new locations emerge where street drinking is a problem.

The latest survey of street drinking identified 106 areas in the city where it was a problem – most outside the city centre.

A recent public consultation found support for granting the police greater powers to tackle street drinking.

There were 630 responses to the consultation and 87 per cent of them said street drinking was a problem in the city.

Anyone who refuses to hand over alcohol when challenged by the police could face fines of up to £100, or up to £1,000 if the case goes to court. 

Hundreds of street drinking confiscation order signs placed around Leicester


Police trying to trace owners of jewellery, power tools and religious books

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Police want to trace the owners of a collection of jewellery, religious books and power tools which are believed to be stolen..

The items were recovered during a search of a house in Melton in the middle of December.

They include an Evolution circular saw, a heavy duty jump starter kit, a Dewalt XR2 cordless drill, an Hitchi 18v cordless drill, a Cronova quartz ladies' watch with a bracelet made from five strings of pearl, a number of strings of pearl, a well-used Holy Bible with illustrations and maps, and another religious book with an attached prayer from the Mother Teresa Children's Foundation.

Pc 2971 Jonathan Goddard, who is in charge of the case, said: "I would appeal to people particularly in the Melton and Charnwood areas to have a look at the photos to see if they recognise any of their property.

"In total we recovered more than 50 watches, more than 20 pieces of jewellery some lap top computers and mobile phones.

"We have not been able to upload photos of everything so even if you don't see your belongings, please give me a call and I will see if I can identify your items."

A 40-year-old man has been arrested and is currently on police bail while further enquiries are carried out.

To see further photos, go to Leicestershire Police's Flickr site (click on each photo for details): https://www.flickr.com/photos/leicspolice-property .

Anyone with information should contact Pc 2971 Jonathan Goddard on 101.

Police trying to trace owners of jewellery, power tools and religious books

North Leicestershire League football: Shelthorpe Dynamo into semi-finals of Intermediate Cup

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Shelthorpe Dynamo are through to the Saturday Intermediate Cup semi-finals after a 3-1 victory over Hathern. 

Ryan Page bagged twice and Joe Bancroft once to send Dynamo into the last-four. 

Loughborough FC failed to join them, falling 2-0 to Ketton. 

Ravenstone United qualified for the semi-finals of the Saturday Trophy with a 4-3 extra-time win over Broughton Astley. 

Damon Lawrence grabbed two, with Paul Collier and Sam Holmes also on target. 

Bottesford could meet them in the final four after they qualified, defeating fellow North Leicestershire League side Greenhill Reserves 5-0. 

Thurmaston Rangers narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot, losing 5-4 to Leicester Three Lions. 

Sileby WMC booked their place in the Saturday Vase semi-finals, beating Birstall RBL Reserves 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Matt Simms got the goal in normal time. 

In the Premier Cup, Falcons ensured their semi-final spot. Ross Locker and Tom Nugent scored in a 2-0 win over Kegworth Imperial in Group B. 

East Leake Athletic and Mountsorrel Amateurs picked up their first point in Group A, drawing 1-1. Liam Woodford and Ross Harrison were on target for each side respectively. 

In Shedland.co.uk Division One, Castle Donington moved to within a point of leaders Ravenstone following a 5-0 success at Anstey Crown. Will Pearson struck a hat-trick with Karl Munton grabbing a brace. 

Ingles Reserves defeated Loughborough United 4-1, Craig Roberts' double added to by Craig Morley and Nathan Gordon. 

In Sports Advocate Division Two, Sileby Saints thrashed winless Travellers Rest Church Gresley 12-0, Alex Peck scoring seven. Tom
Holland, Lewis Madelin, Lewis Maxfield, Harry Collinson and Danny Lewin joined Peck on the scoresheet. 

Sutton Bonington won 5-1 against Garryson, with Ric Traini and Alex Fletcher's doubles rounded off by Patrick Hood. 

Measham Imperial also won 5-1, at Woodhouse Imperial's expense. Nathan James struck twice, with Johnny Dixon, Steve Bell and Jack Yeomans all notching. 

Mountsorrel Amateurs Reserves tied 5-5 with Belton Villa. 

Scott Johnson and Liam Kinch braces, plus an Ady Steeples effort, got the five for Mountsorrel, while a Joe Wesley double and strikes from Ollie Meadows, Greg Fletcher and Alex Branford securing a point for Villa. 

Kegworth Imperial dropped from top to third in Windmill Trophies Division Three after losing 4-0 at Shepshed Amateurs, who went second. 

Paul Goddard, Aaron Tivey, Sean Glover and Chris Flitton netted.

Sileby Victoria Reserves jumped to first with a 5-2 triumph at Loughborough FC A. Kurtis Penney, Daniel Merry, Stuart Morris, Remi White and Luke Mackay found the net.

Castle Donington Reserves beat title-chasers Ravenstone United Reserves 3-2. Josh Buchanan struck twice and Sam Warren grabbed the other. 

Loughborough Emmanuel were 4-1 winners over Birstall Old Boys, Jon James and George Thomas with a brace apiece. 

Loughborough United Reserves and Nags Head Harby played out a goalless draw.

North Leicestershire League football: Shelthorpe Dynamo into semi-finals of Intermediate Cup

Leicestershire CCC in advanced talks to sign Aussie batsman Mark Cosgrove

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Leicestershire hope to have captured the signature of Australian Mark Cosgrove by the end of the month. 

Negotiations are ongoing with the 30-year-old batsman, who is playing his first-class cricket for South Australia alongside County coach Andrew McDonald. 

"We are in advanced talks with Mark to come and play for us," said Leicestershire chief executive Wasim Khan, who has been settling into the hot seat at Grace Road since the turn of the year. 

"We hope we can have that done by the end of the month." 

Cosgrove's name has been heavily linked with County since McDonald's appointment and the powerful left-hander would prove a major asset to the club having already featured prominently in county cricket with Glamorgan, where he proved a real match-winner. 

"That would be a real boost for us," said Khan. "Mark comes highly recommended. I've spoken to a few of the Glamorgan guys who played alongside him and he is a great team man who will win us games. 

"He is a great player to have around the environment and is always willing to pitch in. He is very committed and that is exactly what we are looking for." 

Khan did not rule out any additional signings, with seamer Clint McKay already confirmed as Leicestershire's overseas player for 2015, which starts in April with a home Championship match against Glamorgan.

However, there are no deals in the offing, with County wanting to be certain they only add the right people to their squad. 

Instead, Khan will be concentrating on trying to tie some of the Foxes' current staff to longer deals, as they look for solid foundations on which to build in the next few seasons. 

"I have been in liaison with Andrew McDonald and went out to Australia and spent two weeks with him out there," said Khan. 

"We are both on the same song sheet about what we want to create here. 

"We are in sync about wanting to create a culture of accountability and the best way of delivering results." 

McDonald is not due at Leicester until the end of March, as he fulfils his commitments with South Australia, but Khan believes the all-rounder, who spearheaded the Foxes to the T20 title in 2011, is making his mark even from the other side of the world. 

The County chief executive will be a guest of the Leicestershire Cricket Society on January 29, when he will be joined by former Bears MJK Smith and Paul Smith.

Leicestershire CCC in advanced talks to sign Aussie batsman Mark Cosgrove

Cycling: Team Giant-Alpecin star Lucy Garner looks to build on last season's good work

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The French Embassy in Berlin was the venue for the launch of the new-look Team Giant-Alpecin outfit, complete with the Liv-Plantur
women's squad featuring county cyclist Lucy Garner. 

Resplendent in the team's new colours, Cosby's double world junior champion was one of the featured interviewees, alongside big hitters from the men's squad including Marcel Kittel and John Degenkolb. 

"We have only one new girl on the team this year (Sabrina Stultiens), so it is really good we can build on the work that we did last season," said Garner. "I'm really looking forward to making that step. 

"It is a developing team but a really good opportunity for the younger girls to step up and gain more experience from the more experienced riders. 

"I think we will take some nice memories from the season and some good results." 

After being presented at her third launch since joining the professional ranks, the Great Britain sprinter told the Leicester Mercury: "With the new kit being revealed, the team presentation is quite a big thing for us. 

"It is always very professionally done and looks very good when you are there. I really enjoy it." 

Meanwhile, the focus of attention is beginning to fall on the second edition of the Friends Life Women's Tour, which is set for the middle of the road-racing season. 

Garner was an outstanding seventh overall and finished as the leading British rider when the five-day race made a spectacular debut last year, with the second stage running through the south of the county after starting in Hinckley. 

The opening leg of the 2015 race, which is again likely to attract the world's best teams, will be staged on June 17 starting in Bury St
Edmunds, the venue for the finale in 2014 when Dutch superstar Marianne Vos was crowned inaugural champion. 

Stage one will be raced entirely in Suffolk finishing in Aldeburgh. 

Vic Barnett secured his 15th National cyclo-cross title in as many years when he won the 65 to 69-year-olds race around a technical course in Abergavenny. 

Fresh from his World Masters title success in Switzerland, the Welland Valley club president had to battle all the way as, in the early stages, he was locked in a tight battle with Rugby Velo's Pete Mooney and individual member Phil Cooper. 

The lead changed numerous times but the longer the race progressed the stronger Barnett came. 

Changing bikes every half lap, so he could ride specific tyre pressures for certain sections of the course, proved a good gamble as he started to flow round the corners and across the cambers. 

In the end, he produced a flawless performance to win by 30 seconds from good friend Mooney to complete a fantastic double. 

Welland Valley's former Great Britain ace Dean Barnett is organising the League of Veterans cyclo-cross championships at Misterton Hall, near Lutterworth, on Sunday. 

The 1.8km circuit tests all aspects of riders' skills with fast shale pathways, tarmac roads, dry woodlands and strength-sapping meadowland. 

Four riders who won gold medals at the World Masters are set to feature on the popular course.

Cycling: Team Giant-Alpecin star Lucy Garner looks to build on last season’s good work

Inside Football column: Decision-making of referees in spotlight

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Football referees are seen as a protected species. Any manager or player who dares to speak out of turn about them could face the wrath of the governing bodies. 

Of course, the rest of us can say what we think about refereeing performances, but there has always been the sense that officials are part of a little club where everyone has each other's back. 

So, while it was a shock when one of them steps out of the ranks to aim a broadside at the standard of officials, it was no surprise the comments of former head of referees, Keith Hackett, sparked such furious debate last week. 

Hackett, an official for more than 20 years, held the position of general manager of the Professional Game Match Officials Board from 2004 to 2010, but claimed the standard of refereeing was at the lowest he had ever seen. 

He has called for the resignation of his successor, Mike Riley, for five officials to be removed and for an overhaul of PGMOB. 

Football managers have never been slow to voice their disapproval of refereeing standards and those who have overstepped the mark have paid a price. 

Sir Alex Ferguson, in particular, faced a FA charge after his scathing criticism of Hackett's leadership of PGMOB in 2008. 

However, while Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson has certainly fallen foul of officialdom in the past, he leaped to the defence of Premier League referees recently when asked about the Hackett controversy. 

Pearson described the way some referees' performances are scrutinised and criticised as a witch-hunt and, while he has shown frustration in the past when decisions have gone against his side, he has maintained the stance that until officials are given access to technology, the debate will rage on. 

"What I have noticed is there is a significant increase in the standard of refereeing in the Premier League," said Pearson. 

"While I know we have been on the receiving end of some difficult setbacks, I am not interested in getting involved in witch-hunts. 

"I don't see we need to go down a route of 'them against us'. 

"It is important for the game we look at how to improve decision-making, and I think you would be aware of the fact that, after the Liverpool game, I made comments about the use of technology. 

"I haven't changed that stance. I think in today's climate of having instant access on lots of different levels, it is easy for us all to sit back and see replays from six or seven angles and different speeds, and then be perfect. 

"I am not saying I am not unhappy with one or two situations, but it really is a case of what is best for the game and decisions that are made is not an area I have jurisdiction over. 

"But clearly it is important we, in the professional game, whether it be players, managers, coaches or officials, are working towards the same aim, which is to make the game as fair as possible and to make the decision making process as consistent as possible. 

"That is where we can help the officials. I am not patronising, but the fact is the higher level you go as a player, the better you need to be at decision-making. I am sure that is the same for officials.

"I wouldn't suggest it is easy but we need to do whatever is possible to increase the chances of consistent decision-making."

Inside Football column: Decision-making of referees in spotlight

Leicester City hope to have Danny Drinkwater and Esteban Cambiasso available for Stoke clash

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Leicester City are hoping their central midfield options will be boosted this week by the return from injury of Danny Drinkwater and Esteban Cambiasso. 

Dean Hammond is also being assessed after limping out of Saturday's victory over Aston Villa with another problem on his right calf. 

Drinkwater was due to return to training this week after a groin problem, while Cambiasso, pictured, has a thigh injury. 

With Matty James suspended for three games following his red card in the final stages of Saturday's game, City could potentially have only Andy King, who only returned from injury himself at the weekend, as their sole fit and available recognised central midfield player. 

Manager Nigel Pearson said they hoped Hammond's problem would prove to be just a case of severe cramp, although they will be
cautious as the 31-year-old has missed a few games already this season because of a calf problem. 

"I don't know whether it was just cramp or not, but hopefully it is," said Pearson. "He and Andy King both trained last week. 

"They were always going to be potential concerns in the sense of being fatigued after an hour or so. 

"Hopefully Dean's will just be a case of cramp and we got him off before there was any more damage. 

"Because of the programme we have had over the Christmas period, it is quite a big ask physically for players and I think they have coped with it well. 

"We have come out without any real long-term injuries. Any knocks have only been superficial." 

Jeff Schlupp will also be assessed this week after picking up a knee injury which ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations. 

Pearson was pleased with the way Marc Albrighton and Anthony Knockaert performed after stepping in for Schlupp and Riyad Mahrez, who is at the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria. "I was pleased with their contribution," said Pearson. "They were themselves.

"One of the problems is people want to compare them to the players they are coming in for.

"Both of them bring something slightly different." 

Andrej Kramaric could be available to make his debut against Stoke on Saturday after the FA gave City their blessing to complete the Croatian's £9.5million move from HNK Rijeka, and the Home Office are expected to grant his work permit on the FA's
recommendation in time for him to be registered. 

His availability will give City a boost ahead of the visit of the Potters. Pearson admitted City's home form was going to be vital to their survival chances, especially as they have some extremely tough away games left during the final few months. 

"It's nice to be talking when we have had four decent results, but we know there is an awful lot of work to be done," he said. "Our home form is going to be important."

Leicester City hope to have Danny Drinkwater and Esteban Cambiasso available for Stoke clash

In the house: Make your voices heard

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by Liz Kendall

Every new year is a moment of reflection, an opportunity to take stock and think about the things which really matter – our family and friends, our health and work, and our prospects for the year ahead.

Whether it is going to the gym, quitting smoking or cutting back on the booze, many of the new year's resolutions we make at the beginning of January fall by the wayside later on in the month as the reality of daily life kicks back in.

That's why I wanted to do something different this year, something bigger and better which could lead to more lasting change.

Not long ago, I was on the BBC's Newsnight programme, discussing the huge pressures on the NHS and what can be done to address them – an issue that remains at the top of the agenda as patients face the worst accident and emergency waits for a decade, and more struggle to get an appointment with their GP.

Russell Brand appeared on the same programme and it reminded me of when he boasted about never voting.

Despite the huge difference politics can make, including on vital issues such as the NHS, Russell claimed there was nothing to vote for.

I completely disagree. I also think it's the wrong message to send out to young people when less than half of all 18 to 24-year-olds voted at the last General Election, compared to three-quarters of those aged over 65.

Young people care passionately about a whole range of issues and it's down to politicians such as myself to prove politics is relevant, that it will make a genuine difference and that young people's views and voices will be heard – including through the ballot box.

Yet hundreds of thousands of young people aren't even on the electoral register, so they won't be able vote in the General Election on May 7.

The Government has changed the rules to require every voter to register themselves, meaning one person can no longer sign up everyone else in the house.

We've seen a fall of more than 13,000 people on the register in Leicester since February, and a 30 per cent drop in the number of teenage voters being added to the register for the first time.

So my new year's resolution is to get young people to sign up to vote.

You can make a difference, too. Some of the most valuable lessons we learn come from our families.

My parents taught me I should always exercise my right to vote.

You can help pass this message down to the next generation by getting just one person you know to register to vote.

So please join the effort – make sure everyone can have their say on May 7.

You can register at:

www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

In the house: Make your voices heard


French home found for hospital chapel organ

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A 125-year-old hospital chapel organ has been found a new home - in France.

The Porritt organ in St Luke's Chapel at Leicester Royal Infirmary will soon be ringing out in the parish church in the village of Saint Meloir des Bois in Brittany.

It will moved in the next few weeks as demolition of the chapel, built in 1888, is due to begin next month (February) to make way for the new A&E department at Leicester Royal Infirmary.

The organ is being moved by John Davey, from Leicester, who now lives in the French village.

He said: "The organ is a good quality instrument and a fine example of late 19th Century Victorian craftsmanship.

"The village and parish council of Saint Meloir des Bois are truly grateful to have been chosen as the future custodians of the instrument as it has enabled them to further add to the heritage of the church and the parish, which they value highly."

He added: "The church has never had an organ. The building of the church was financed by the parish, and the limited funds meant that the entire budget was exhausted.

"The addition of an organ should ensure that the church has a renewed position at the centre of village life."

Mr Davey said it was now hoped to find a Leicestershire village with a population of about 300 to twin with Saint Meloir des Bois.

The Rev Mark Burleigh, head of chaplaincy and bereavement at Leicester's hospitals, said: "I am delighted that we have found a new home for the chapel organ, that people will continue to enjoy its music and that it will continue to be used in worship."

Ian Imlay, who was organist at St Luke's for 50 years, said: "I am pleased the organ has found a home, it could so easily have ended up in a skip.

"If I am invited I hope I might be able to play it in France."

The demolition of St Luke's Chapel caused controversy when it was put forward as campaigners argued it was part of the city's heritage and should be maintained.

However, officials at Leicester's hospitals said the only way of providing a new £43 million A&E department at Leicester Royal was to knock down the Langham wing of the Victoria building which also houses the chapel.

It is planned to provide an interim chapel which will start being used at the beginning of February, with a formal opening ceremony later in the Spring.

In a bid to preserve memories of the chapel a virtual tour has been produced.

To see the virtual tour click HERE

French home found for hospital chapel organ

Chairman of the Leicester Conservative branch quits

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The chairman of Leicester's Conservative party has stepped down.

Simon Whelband has resigned from the post he took on in 2012 because of his work commitments in his job as a caseworker and press officer for Loughborough MP Nicky Morgan.

Mr Whelband, who is a Tory candidate for the Aylestone ward in the upcoming city council election, said: "Under our rules I can only hold the post for three years so I would have been handing over at out AGM in February.

"I've gone a bit early. It's purely about work."

A hard fought campaign is predicted in Loughborough where Mrs Morgan is defending a 3,700 majority in May's election

Labour sources say UKIP might split the Tory vote helping them take the seat and the Conservatives will be looking to ensure Mrs Morgan, secretary of state for education, does not lose.

City councillor Ross Grant has become acting chairman of the city's Conservatives until another is chosen at the AGM.

Chairman of the Leicester Conservative branch quits

FA charge Leicester City and Aston Villa

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The FA have charged Leicester City with failing to control their players after events at the end of Saturday's victory over Aston Villa.

Villa have also been charged following the scenes towards the end of City's 1-0 win.

Players from both sides came together to split up Matty James and Villa's Ciaran Clark as they clashed after James' tackle on Jores Okore and after both had been dismissed in added time the scuffling continued in the technical area with both benches involved.

The FA said in a statement: "Both Aston Villa and Leicester City have been charged by The FA following their fixture on January 10, 2015.

"It is alleged that during added time at the end of the second half both clubs failed to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or refrained from provocative behaviour.

"The clubs have until 6pm on Friday to respond to the charge."

Police trying to trace cyclist who robbed woman on New Year's Day

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Police are appealing to New Year revellers for help in tracing a cyclist who robbed a woman in the street.

The incident took place at the junction of the A426 Leicester Road and Glenville Avenue in Glen Parva just after 1am on January 1.

The female victim was walking towards Glenville Avenue when the male attacker riding a bicycle approached her from behind.

He made verbal threats to her, knocked her to the ground, then reached into her coat pocket and stole her mobile phone.

He ran off city-bound along Leicester Road – leaving his green Raleigh bike behind him.

Detective Constable Chris Coates, who is investigating the crime, said: "This was a nasty incident.

"The victim was left with some minor bruising and was understandably shaken by her ordeal.

"I know that Leicester Road was busy with motorists and pedestrians at that time.

"I would ask people to cast their mind back to the early hours of the New Year to see if there is anything that could help our investigation.

"I am also interested in where this bicycle came from. Does anyone know someone who used to have a green Raleigh but no longer had it after January 1?"

The suspect is described as slim, about 16-20 years old, and was wearing a light coloured hooded top.

Anyone with information should call Det Con 0514 Chris Coates on 101.

Police trying to trace cyclist who robbed woman on New Year's Day

Rafal Delezuch inquest: Police constable tells jury of detained man's final hours

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A policeman has described the final hours of a man who died in hospital while being restrained by officers.

Pc Fabrizio Smargiassi was giving evidence, today, at an inquest in Leicester Town Hall into the death of Rafal Delezuch, of Highfields, on August 15, 2012.

The 26-year-old Polish national died after he was detained under the Mental Health Act following police responding to reports of him he was acting strangely in the street.

Pc Smargiassi, who was alone in his patrol car, was the first officer dispatched to the Devana Road, Highfields, Leicester, when the initial 999 call came in at about 6.45am.

But despite scouring the area, it was not until 8.40am that he finally located Mr Delezuch on the corner of Glossop Street and Osmaston Road.

He said: "I immediately thought he looked unwell. He looked out of it, was sweating a lot and shaking.

"I asked him if he was okay and quickly realised he needed urgent help.

"The first thing he said to me was 'hospital'. He had a hand on his chest and was saying 'my heart, my heart'.

The opening day of the inquest, on Monday, had been told that Mr Delezuch was high on amphetamines. Pc Smargiassie said he called for back up and a police van to take Mr Delezuch to Leicester Royal Infirmary.

He then helped him into the back of his police patrol car.

He said he did not call for an ambulance due to his erratic behaviour.

Mr Delezuch's began thumping windows, kicking and screaming, and tried to climb into the front passenger seat.

Pc Smargiassie said he got out and pulled him from the car, warning him to calm down.

When this failed, he drew his Captor spray and discharged it into Mr Delezuch's face, but to no effect. The officer did, however, managed to handcuff him, with his hands in front of him, but he continued to resist.

Pc Smargiassie said: "He was putting his fingers into his mouth. The only way I could describe it is he was he was trying to peel his own face off."

When support arrived, Pc Smargiassie and three colleagues placed Mr Delezuch in the 'prone position', flat on his front.

They re-applied the handcuffs with his hands behind his back and applied leg restraints to stop him kicking out .

Mr Delezuch remained under restraint in hospital as he continued to struggle.

Questioned by Carolynn Gallwey, solicitor acting for Mr Delezuch's family, who have travelled from Poland to be at the inquest, the officer denied that inappropriate force was used which could have restricted the distressed man's breathing.

Pc Smargiassie did accept, when it was put to him, that a lack of training meant that, according to guidelines, he should not have been sent alone to deal with Mr Delezuch.

Mr Delezuch died in hospital shortly before 11am after suffering two heart attacks while being treated.

CCTV footage from Leicester Royal Infirmary was played in the coroners court.

It showed Mr Delezuch being carried by officers into accident and emergency at 9.21am.

He was monitored by officers in a side room until he could receive medial attention, and was taken on a trolley to a curtained bay in the emergency department's resus area at 10.16am.

At 10.24am, extra medical staff can be seen running to the bay after the patient, still under restraint, suffered his first cardiac arrest.

The inquest continues tomorrow.

Rafal Delezuch inquest: Police constable tells jury of detained man's final hours

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