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VIDEO: Facebook appeal to help find kidney for Matthew Pietrzyk, from Glenfield

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An online appeal to find a kidney for a poorly seven-year-old boy has attracted worldwide support from more than 300,000 well-wishers.

Matthew Pietrzyk, from Glenfield, was born with a rare genetic disorder which has damaged his kidneys.

In a bid to find a live donor and raise awareness of organ donation, his mum, Nicola, uploaded a picture of Matthew to Facebook, appealing for a million people to "like" the image.

In less than a week, more than 301,800 people have responded to her appeal, and nearly 40,000 people have joined a Facebook page supporting Matthew's search.

"It is absolutely overwhelming and I never believed for a second that I would get this kind of response," said Nicola, 33.

"I would love it if this campaign found a kidney for Matthew, obviously, but if it just encourages more people to join the organ donation register, and helps even one more person, that would be amazing.

"I've been getting 50 messages a day and been up until 2am replying to the amazing messages – I just can't not reply because people are being so kind.

"If hope and prayers were all that was needed to get Matthew a kidney, without a doubt we'd have one today."

Matthew was born with congenital nephrotic syndrome which means his faulty kidneys get rid of protein through his urine that would usually transport fluids around his body.

He had one kidney removed in October, 2007 to prepare him to receive a donor organ from his mum.

The transplant took place in January, 2008, at Nottingham City hospital but the new kidney failed immediately and was removed.

"I'm usually said to be the cement that holds everything together, but when that happened I crumbled," said Nicola, a part-time aerobics teacher.

Matthew was put on the national waiting list, alongside hundreds of other children. His second kidney was removed in May this year, to help ease his condition and prepare him for a potential second donor.

While he waits for that donor to be found, Matthew has to endure 12-hour daily dialysis sessions and can only drink 850ml of liquid a day.

He sometimes gets poorly and has to spend time in hospital.

Matthew's aunts, uncles, grandparents and family friends have been tested as potential donors, but while six share his blood group, none were a sufficient match.

It was when Nicola's youngest brother failed to match that she launched her online campaign last week.

"I thought, we have to do something about this because we are getting nowhere," said Nicola, who has two other sons, Joseph, 14 and Theo, two, with husband Craig.

"Matthew was fully aware and on board and he said, 'We've been waiting such a long time, it's worth a try'. I'm not saying to people that we need one tomorrow, although that would be amazing.

"You can live on dialysis for about 25 years, but I don't want Matthew to spend his childhood on dialysis.

"Even if we don't get a donor for Matthew through this, just getting the word out there about how people can be a live kidney donor would be brilliant – you don't have to die to be a donor and some people don't know that."

Videos of Matthew have been posted on to the Facebook page's timeline.

In one video, posted last Friday, Matthew said: "I have been waiting for a kidney transplant for years now and you can help me by signing the organ donor register. It only takes five minutes. You can do it!"

In another, posted on Monday, he said: "Thank you for watching and liking my videos and sharing my page. Keep up the good work."

A live matching donor for Matthew would be blood type O, based in the UK and under 55-years-old.

To support Matthew online, or find out how you can help, visit Facebook here or search for "A million likes for a kidney for Matthew".

VIDEO: Facebook appeal to help find kidney for Matthew Pietrzyk, from Glenfield


Driver hurt as car hits tree on A47 in Leicester Forest East

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A man was taken to hospital after the car he was driving crashed into a tree on the A47 at Leicester Forest East. Emergency service were called to the scene in Hinckley Road, close to the Beggar's Lane turning for Enderby, at about 1.45am today. Firefighters used cutting gear to free the male driver and another casualty from the vehicle. A police spokesman said: "It seems the car left the road and hit a tree. "The driver was trapped by his legs and had to be freed by the fire service." He added: "He was taken by ambulance to Leicester Royal Infirmary. "His injuries are not thought to be life threatening." The fire service said a passenger was also freed from the vehicle but neither they or the police were able to provide further details. The A47 was closed for about an hour while the incident was dealt with.

Driver hurt as car hits tree on A47 in Leicester Forest East

Tenants evacuated as blaze hits Leicester city centre flats

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A block of flats in Leicester city centre was evacuated after a fire broke out in the early hours of the morning. Fire crews were called to Vestry House, in Humberstone Gate, just after 1am today. Four firefighters using breathing gear entered the burning building after initial reports stated there may be people trapped inside. At total of 20 tenants were evacuated from the seven-floor block and taken to safety. By 2am it was confirmed that all people were accounted for. At the height of the blaze, crews from across Leicester and two pumps from Wigston were engaged in fighting the flames. It was under control and a stop message received by fire control just before 3am.

Tenants evacuated as blaze hits Leicester city centre flats

Man killed in A6006 crash at Shoby, near Melton

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A man has been killed in a crash on the A6006 at Shoby, near Melton. The collision, involving a Land Rover Discovery and an articulated Renault lorry, happened on a stretch of road known locally as the Shoby Bends at about 6.10am today. Emergency service attended and a 34-year-old front seat passenger of the Land Rover was pronounced dead at the scene. He has yet to be formally identified. The car's remaining two occupants were taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary for a check up and one casualty was treated for minor injuries. A 54-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody. The A6006 remains closed from Loughborough Road to the B676 Six Hills Lane while crash investigators examine the scene and the road is cleared. Officers from the Leicestershire force's serious collision investigation unit are appealing to anyone who witnesses the fatal crash to come forward. Detective Constable Pete Davies said: "The lorry was travelling towards Melton and the Land Rover was travelling in the opposite direction at the time of the collision. "We would urge anyone who witnessed the collision, or saw either of the vehicles beforehand, to please contact the police immediately." Anyone with information is asked to call the police 101 number.

Man killed in A6006 crash at Shoby, near Melton

Leicester gets active for Wear it Red Day

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WALKERS, joggers and cyclists joined forces today (February 23) to take part in an organised Wear it Red Day event.

People walked, jogged or cycled from Aylestone Leisure Centre, Braunstone Leisure Centre, Cossington Street Sports centre, Spence Street Sports Centre and Evington Leisure Centre to the Town Hall to raise awarness of heart disease. 

The event, which has been running for the past two years was organised by Leicester City Council for the National Heart Foundation. 

Among those walking from Cossington Street Sports centre were councillor Manjula Sood. 

She said: "It's all to raise awareness of heart conditions and that walking can help keep you healthy. Leicestershire is one of the areas in the country identified as having health inequalities.

"We want people to look after their health and today is about raising awareness of the activities they can take part in to do that."

Heart Smart and Active Lifestyle Scheme members were among those targeted to take part in the event. 

Heart Smart users are people who have suffered from a heart condition and through the council scheme are now on the road to recovery. 

To find out more about the Active Lifestyle Scheme and Heart Smart, visit the website www.leicester.gov.uk/activelifestyle, or call 0116 299 5585.

A free walking programme is also available to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to get active. 

The group walks follow short routes around Leicester, on March 2, 11am a walk will leave from Cossington Sports Center and on March 5, 12pm meet at Stocking Farm Community Centre. 

For further information contact Amy Morgan on 0116 2526542 or email amy.morgan@ramblers.org.uk or visit www.getwalking.org/leicester


Leicester gets active for Wear it Red Day

Blackpool vs Leicester: Wood miss costs Foxes

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Chris Wood missed a second-half penalty as Leicester's automatic promotion hopes were dented in Paul Ince's first home game in charge of Blackpool which ended 0-0.

Prolific New Zealander Wood has struck 19 goals this season but number 20 proved elusive on the north-west coast as Leicester were left to rue missed chances.

Debutant Harry Kane won a penalty for his new side early in the second period but Wood lashed the spot-kick against the crossbar before somehow missing the target from close range later on.

The pitch at Bloomfield Road was hardly conducive to crisp passing and it was no surprise that when a chance eventually did materialise in the first period, it came via a route one attack.

Kane, on loan with the Foxes from Tottenham, watched a long ball get flicked on by David Nugent before he unleashed a venomous volley which Matt Gilks did well to beat away down to his left.

Ben Marshall then saw his corner cleared straight back to him and he disturbed the side-netting with a left-footed try.

Blackpool, who began life under Ince with a 2-0 defeat at Leeds on Tuesday, were suddenly motivated into action and Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was forced into a fine double save.

The former Leeds shot-stopper had to careful judge Tom Ince's effort from long distance as it threatened to bounce over him and he was alert enough to stop Neal Eardley from the follow-up too.

Schmeichel started the second period as he had ended the first by getting down to push winger Ince's testing drive wide.

Then, almost out of nothing, the visitors earned a spot-kick five minutes into the second half when Kane was knocked over unnecessarily by Eardley.

Wood stepped up to take the penalty and opted for power, thumping the ball against the woodwork before it flew over the bar.

Visiting manager Nigel Pearson decided to change the attacking triumvirate of Kane, Wood and Nugent, replacing the latter with Lloyd Dyer and switching to a 4-4-2.

The switch gave the Foxes more width and Marshall whipped in a free-kick which Wes Morgan just glanced off target.

Moments later, Dyer gave Wood the ultimate chance to redeem himself.

Kane darted past Craig Cathcart on the right and his low cross came all the way through to Dyer at the far post. He had the presence of mind to find Wood, who once more went for power rather than placement as he smashed the ball wide from six yards.

At the other end Stephen Crainey curled a free-kick just wide but the best chances continued to be created by Leicester.

Wood saw a deft header tipped over the crossbar by Gilks before substitute Anthony Knockaert drilled wide.

And there was no way through the visitors, who will view this as two points dropped with promotion rivals Hull and Crystal Palace both falling to defeats on their travels.

Blackpool vs Leicester: Wood miss costs Foxes

Beaten Tigers stunned by Saracens' second-half comeback

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Leicester Tigers 27 Saracens 32

Leicester Tigers hopes of a home semi-final in the Aviva Premiership took a huge hit after Saracens recorded a bonus-point win at Welford Road.

The result put the visitors five points clear of Leicester in second place, with Harlequins a further point ahead at the top of the table.

Tigers will have to hope that the top two sides slip up over the remaining six league games if they are to close that gap.

The hosts had powered their way into a 17-6 half-time lead after dominating the opening 40 minutes and scoring one of the tries of the season.

Julian Salvi was first to cross the line on 28 minutes and just three minutes later, it was 17-3 when George Ford started a move in his own 22 and, after good runs by Geordan Murphy and Adam Thompstone, Ford's delicate chip over the defence allowed Dan Bowden to dive on the ball for a memorable score.

But that was as good as it got for Leicester as Sarries fought back in style after the break with four tries in 23 minutes.

Dave Strettle got the ball rolling on 51 minutes before James Short put the visitors ahead for the first time four minutes later.

The home crowd was stunned when Strettle added his second and when Chris Wyles dotted down for Saracens bonus-point fourth try, Sarries led 32-20 with just six minutes left.

Tigers battered the visitors' line in the closing stages and earned a losing bonus point when referee JP Doyle gave them a penalty try after Strettle had stopped a three-man overlap with a deliberate knock on.

Strettle was yellow-carded and Saracens ended the game with 13 men following substitute Duncan Taylor's binning seconds earlier.

Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: "It was disappointing after being in a good position at half-time but fair play to Saracens. We have to dust ourselves off and get ready for Sale next week."

Grace Road community sports arena plans go on display

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Sports fans and residents got the chance to see for themselves plans for a £2.5million multi-purpose sports arena. Up to 300 people visited Leicester's Grace Road cricket ground in Aylestone Park on Saturday for an open day to learn more about the Community Arena Project (CAP). Representatives from the Leicester Riders basketball team, the county cricket club and Leicester College were on hand to discuss the joint project with visitors. The proposed arena, on a vacant plot of land off Grace Road, will provide a permanent home for the basketball club, flexible sports facilities for use by the community and 14 apartments. Russell Levenston, Riders' general manager, said: "It was very busy and we had up to 300 people come along over the few hours. "Rob (Paternostro, head coach) and the players came down to join myself and other staff to talk to fans and residents. "All the feedback I received was really positive. Some residents were under the misunderstanding that it is going to be this massive arena but once we reassured them it was not, they were very supportive. "Most people seemed very enthusiastic at the idea of Grace Road being used all year round and not just for four or five months of the year." The cricket club intends to use a £1million loan from the England and Wales Cricket Board to build the apartments, which will then be let to bring in the vital income. The project is also seeking support from Sport England.

Car wedged under lorry in three-way pile-up in Thurmaston Lane, Leicester

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The occupants of a car had a lucky escape after it became wedged under a lorry in a crash. Emergency services were called to Thurmaston Lane on the A563 outer ring road, in Rushey Mead, Leicester, after reports of a collision involving two cars and a lorry. The accident happened at about 7.45am on Saturday morning. A fire service spokeswoman said: "The first informative message from our crew said it was a road traffic collision involving two cars and one heavy goods vehicle "No-one was trapped but one car was wedged under the lorry." She said they managed to free the car by 8.18am. A police spokesman said: "No-one was injured in the collision." A section of the outer ring road was closed to traffic until the operation was complete and the road cleared. It reopened at 9.39am.

Car wedged under lorry in three-way pile-up in Thurmaston Lane, Leicester

Motorcyclists could get use of bus lanes in Leicester

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Motorcyclists could be allowed to ride down some of the city's bus lanes as part of an experiment to cut traffic congestion.

Councillors have asked for an investigation to be carried out to see if bikers could be permitted to take advantage of bus-only zones on main routes in and out of the city – with a view to arranging a trial period.

The move results from a request by the Leicester and District Motorcycle Action Group which wants the city to follow the example of other cities and towns in opening up bus lanes to motorcyclists.

London, Birmingham, Belfast, Bedford, Swindon, Reading, Hull and Sunderland have all, to some extent, allowed access to cyclists.

Action group spokesman Ian Underwood has told the council's transport scrutiny commission he would like bikes to be able to use bus lanes in Hinckley Road, Welford Road, Uppingham Road, Aylestone Road, and London Road.

He told members he thought the step would improve traffic flows and cut congestion and air pollution.

Commission chairman councillor Neil Clayton said: "We listened to evidence from the motorcyclists and felt it would be worth considering a trial period where they could use the bus lanes and see what impact that would have.

"It would be for the city's arterial routes, not the bus gates in the city centre.

"We have passed on a recommendation to the council's executive to consider it."

Coun Clayton said there had been requests from private hire taxi operators to be granted bus lane access. Licensed hackney cabs are allowed to share the lanes with buses.

He said: "They want to be treated the same as hackney cabs but we thought that wasn't a good idea because it will lead to confusion."

Motorcyclist Steven Collins, 37, from Aylestone, said: "I might want to use a bus lane at times when there are not many buses running but I'm not sure how safe it would be in busy periods.

"Buses are big things with poor visibility for the drivers, while bikers are small and hard to see. It's not a good mix."

Biker Glenn Crawford, 40, of Thurmaston, said: "No thanks. "It's not necessary because clever bikers will be able to beat jams by passing between cars."

Motorcyclists could get use of bus lanes in Leicester

Unqualified driver Nathan Williams jailed for taking and crashing car

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An unqualified driver who took his girlfriend's car without permission because he was "too lazy" to walk to the shops crashed into three vehicles and a brick wall after a police chase, a court heard.

Officers spotted Nathan Williams behind the wheel of the Seat vehicle at 10.40pm on December 23 in Frisby Road, near Uppingham Road, Leicester.

Alan Murphy, prosecuting, said the defendant drove off at about 45mph in the 30mph residential area.

"The patrol car followed him along various streets, including Houghton Street," said Mr Murphy.

"They lost sight of him until they turned into Bushby Road, where he had collided with three parked cars.

"Officers saw dust and flying debris as the defendant's car travelled along a pavement, out of control, before smashing into a lamppost and a wall."

A Mazda car with a 2008 number plate was written off and two other cars were damaged, one of them extensively.

Thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused but no total figure was available, Leicester Crown Court was told.

Mr Murphy said: "The car the defendant was driving was his partner's car.

"He said he thought it was unpleasant weather and would drive to get some cigarettes.

"It was a hire car she was using for work and had not given him permission to take it."

Williams (26), of Duncan Road, Saffron Lane, Leicester, was jailed for 10 months and banned from driving for two years.

He admitted aggravated vehicle taking of the Seat, which included driving it dangerously, and driving without a licence or insurance.

Judge Philip Head said: "Mercifully no-one was injured or killed. You made a decision, because you were too lazy to walk, to use your partner's hire car to buy cigarettes.

"Having seen the police vehicle, I accept, you panicked.

"Instead of stopping, you drove off in a built up area and completely lost control. It was pure chance no-one was hurt."

Mr Murphy said the owners of the three damaged cars found it particularly inconvenient, as it was two days before Christmas.

Barbara McDonnell, mitigating, said: "No-one knows more than him how stupid and irresponsible he was and he's fully aware of what could have happened.

"He's full of remorse and shame for what he did on that evening."

Unqualified driver Nathan Williams jailed for taking and crashing car

Oliver Burton, 10, faces his third battle with cancer, as parents raise cash for farewell treats

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A "little fighter" is facing his third battle with cancer – one his parents have been told he will not win.

Oliver Burton, 10, from Birstall, was first diagnosed with leukaemia in 2006, aged just three.

Since then, his parents have twice been told their son had just hours to live – but both times little Oliver has defied doctors' predictions and pulled through.

But despite his strength and bravery, last month his parents, Catherine and James Browne, were told his latest cancer relapse could not be cured.

He has Downs Syndrome, which makes his body extra sensitive to medicines and doctors said intensive treatment would probably leave him fighting for his life in hospital.

Catherine and James have brought Oliver home and are determined to make his final months or years as happy as possible, filled with treasured memories for him and little brother Ethan, five.

Helped by their friends, they are raising money to pay for treats and trips for their boys.

Catherine, 28, said: "Oliver had never once complained about anything.

"He is happy and his attitude is that he hasn't a care in the world and he is an absolute inspiration to us.

"We've never been ones to ask for help or money before, but we have slowly realised that if people want to help us do fun and happy things with the boys then we should let them.

"Life is rubbish at times, but we will deal with it with a smile on our face. Creating these happy and fun memories for the boys will help us keep smiling and keep going.

"We want to tell the world about our brave boy who we are so proud of."

When Oliver was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2006 he made a full recovery and was in full remission by June 2008. But in May 2010 a test on fluid inside his spine revealed the cancer had returned.

Before he could leave hospital he contracted the life-threatening skin condition Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which causes lesions and saw Oliver shed almost all his skin.

His parents were told to call in family and friends to say goodbye to Oliver, but he pulled through and eventually returned home.

While the cancer was terminal and intensive chemotherapy was not an option because of Oliver's Downs Syndrome, daily, less-intensive treatment at home meant the cancer was held at bay and Oliver entered partial remission.

"While they couldn't blast out the hiding cells, he was doing well and he was enjoying life and getting on with things again," said Catherine.

But in October last year, Oliver's health started to go downhill and less than two weeks before Christmas he was again diagnosed with cancer – this time in his spine and bone marrow.

He began to have trouble breathing and was transferred to the high dependency unit at Leicester Royal Infirmary and put on an aspirator to help him breathe. MRI scans revealed he had suffered a toxic reaction to chemotherapy which had affected his brain.

Once again, his parents were told to say goodbye – but once again Oliver proved them wrong.

"We spent all night at the hospital looking at photos of him and praying, willing him to come back," said Catherine.

"We got up the next morning and went to intensive care and we saw the physio coming out and she looked a bit funny.

"We asked her what was wrong and she said they were aspirating his tube and that they knocked it out of place and that he started breathing and had gone and woken up.

"I was just hit with emotions – relief and shock and elation.

"The neuros and consultants said they couldn't believe what had happened.

"They said they were going to come and talk to us that day about switching his machines off. We were absolutely amazed."

Oliver was able to come home to celebrate a Christmas filled with relief and joy.

A month ago, the couple had an appointment with Oliver's consultant. They thought they were going to talk about intensifying his treatment, but doctors delivered the crushing news that Oliver's cancer could not be intensively treated and there was no cure.

They offered his parents two choices – keep giving Oliver pallative treatment to keep him well enough to enjoy time with family and friends at home, or risk intensive treatment which would probably leave him fighting for his life in hospital within a matter of weeks.

"Either decision was bringing it to the same outcome," Catherine said. "If we take him home we can give him quality of life with family and friends and at Rainbows hospice, which he absolutely loves.

"It is hard and it is devastating, and there are nights when it just goes around your head, but people's support has been absolutely amazing and our Oliver is our inspiration."

Oliver Burton, 10, faces his third battle with cancer, as parents raise cash for farewell treats

Leicester Tigers: Match verdict - Fourth home loss in row really hurts

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For the fourth consecutive regular season game at Welford Road, Saracens enjoyed the sweet taste of success.

There can be few, if any teams, that have enjoyed such a record on Leicester soil in the past.

A virtually nomadic existence in the last few years has obviously helped the Fez Heads believe they can win on any ground.

This is a side with few fears and plenty of belief.

But even that belligerent self-belief would have been put to the test on 31 minutes when Tigers led 17-3 after running in one of the best tries you will ever see .

The hosts already led 10-3 after Julian Salvi's close-range score when George Ford side-stepped Richard Wigglesworth 10 metres from his own line and fed Geordan Murphy.

The Irishman dummied one defender and drew another before floating a lovely pass out to Matt Smith.

He passed to Adam Thompstone, who held off James Short for 10 metres with a stiff hand to the face.

Salvi threw recycled ball out to Ford who sent a gorgeous chip over the on-rushing defence, allowing Dan Bowden to dive over the line and spark jubilant celebrations.

Ford's conversion made it 17-3 and Leicester were so much on top at this stage, that a bonus point win looked likely.

Charlie Hodgson pulled a penalty back before half-time and it was still 17-6 with half-an-hour to go after both sides kicked the leather off the ball after the break.

But, suddenly, the game changed in an instant and Saracens produced one of the most clinical 23-minute spells of rugby you will see all season.

David Strettle got them off the mark exposing space in the corner and then fellow winger James Short did exactly the same on the opposite side four minutes later.

Hodgson missed the kick but Saracens led for the first time 18-17.

Strettle added a third try on 64 minutes and, by now, the visitors' powerful ball-carriers were making real in-roads and, as Leicester's starting XV tired, Saracens' bench injected energy and venom.

It was no surprise when Tigers were sucked in again making tackles and Chris Wyles exposed the space to add a bonus-point fourth try.

The hosts grabbed a losing bonus point in extra-time as Strettle was yellow-carded for a deliberate knock-on and referee JP Doyle made him join Duncan Taylor in the sin-bin as he awarded a penalty try.

By that stage, many Tigers fans had already left a Welford Road that resembled a morgue as the damage was done.

In the end, Leicester just had too many key players missing.

Even with the first-choice tight-head prop, hooker, line-out leader, scrum-half, fly-half and outside-centre all on England duty, Tigers proved during the autumn internationals that they had the strength of squad to get by.

But throw in injuries to other key men like Louis Deacon, Steve Mafi and Anthony Allen and it was just too much for them to cope with against top-class opposition.

There were, however, two huge plus points from the evening.

Murphy and Jordan Crane were both in superb form.

Murphy hit a series of lovely lines and made breaks through the Sarries' defence all night long.

Age catches up with us all and the 34-year-old's body is showing signs of wear and tear, but the Irishman's rugby brain is still young and vibrant and any talk of him hanging up his boots on this evidence would be ridiculous.

Crane, meanwhile, was at his warrior-like best. Relishing the contact in both attack and defence, he also snaffled two turnovers he had no right to make and was at the forefront of some of Leicester's best kick-chase moments.

The result wasn't terminal for Leicester and their battling last-gasp try earned a losing bonus point that was at least some crumb of comfort.

Saracens and Harlequins also have to play each other in March so somebody will lose that game – and Tigers have played well enough to lead both of those teams in the last fortnight after 40 minutes.

But Sarries seem to have an Indian sign over Tigers at Welford Road and, for a side that rarely loses at home, that will hurt like hell.

Leicester Tigers: Match verdict - Fourth home loss in row really hurts

Lively start spurs on Harry Kane to help Leicester City's promotion bid

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Harry Kane said his Leicester City debut at Blackpool has whetted his appetite for more.

The striker joined City only on Thursday, but he started in a three-man attack at Bloomfield Road.

Although City had to settle for a goalless draw, Kane said he was impressed with his new team-mates, especially fellow strikers Chris Wood and David Nugent.

"They are two great players to play with and I thought we worked well together, coming off the flanks and then playing up top together," he said.

"It was hard on that pitch but I thought we all played well together.

"We had the better chances but, unfortunately, we didn't take them. It was a tough match, a big battle on a bad pitch, but we kept a great clean sheet. We should be pleased.

"Everyone has been great and made me feel very welcome. It is good to get my chance.

"Unfortunately I didn't get a goal and we didn't get the three points, but it was a good experience and I am looking forward to the next game now."

Kane said he hopes to play a big part for City in their push for promotion during his loan spell from Tottenham Hotspur.

"I want to get experience, get more games under my belt and score some goals," he said.

"If Leicester can push for promotion as well, that would be great experience to take on in my career.

"It helps a lot to play the games and get used to the crowds and the pitches, and get used to players. I think I can bring something to the team and they can help me."

Kane added: "It will be another tough game on Tuesday (at home to Blackburn), but every game is tough in this division.

"We will look forward to it and try to get a win, and push for promotion."

Kane was brought down inside the Blackpool penalty area for the game's key moment, but the 21-year-old insists it was a penalty.

Unfortunately for City, Wood could not convert it.

"I got the touch in front of two players and I felt I got clipped," said Kane.

"The ref gave it and it is his decision.

"Unfortunately it didn't go in, but that is football. We have to move on to the game on Tuesday."

Lively start spurs on Harry Kane to help Leicester City's promotion bid

Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival 2013: The last laugh as 20th festival ends

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The laughter may have faded but Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival 2013 will live long in the memory.

Founder and director Geoff Rowe said he couldn't be more pleased with how this year's festival had gone, which he expects to break "all box office records" on its 20th birthday.

The festival drew to a close at the weekend, and the past 17 days have seen more than 520 events held at more than 50 venues across the city and county – up by more than 100 on 2012.

Sold out shows have included Paul Chowdhry, Joel Dommett, Daniel Simonsen, Holly Walsh, Milton Jones, Alan Davies, Tony Law and John Shuttleworth, just to name a few.

"Given the size and scale of our 20th birthday, we are incredibly pleased with how things have gone," said Geoff.

"Attendance across the 17 days has been really strong and it looks like this year's event has been by far the most successful to date.

"We are still adding up all the ticket sales but it looks like we'll have broken all box office records across the festival."

Organisers responded to the constant challenge of building on the festival's success and keeping things fresh by introducing a series of new events.

"We worked hard this year to increase the impact of the festival across Leicester and Leicestershire," said Geoff.

They included a Festival of Photography at Leicester train station; Comedy Blind Date on Valentines Day, pop-up shows across the city with the Comedy Tourist and Chuckles in the Chapel.

There was also Old Folks Telling Jokes and the De Montfort University Square Mile Smiles Showcase, with additional events held across the county with Leicestershire Stands Up.

Worth about £2 million to the city's economy, venues have been equally pleased at the impact of this year's festival.

Russell Hunt, manager of The Criterion pub, in Millstone Lane, said: "We've had plenty of returners (comedians) this year, including Matt Rudge, George Ryegold and Joe Bor. It's a compliment to us they choose to come back here.

"It's also refreshing to have new faces in during the festival. People experiment by buying a £5 ticket here and there.

"It's great to have a change of clientele, and hopefully they come back to us throughout the year."

John Helps, manager of near-by Firebug, said: "It has been our best year ever. We've had mostly sold-out shows to the point where we couldn't fit anyone else in the room. The standard of comedy has been amazing. It has flown by."

"Chris Stokes was wicked and Tony Law played two sold-out nights which were amazing.

"January's quiet for most places, but February is always packed and busy because of the festival."

Anthony Hopkins, owner of The Crumblin' Cookie, in High Street, said: "We've had nine sold out shows this year."

He said there had been so many good shows.

"John Kearns' show was stunning, really great, and we've enjoyed Josh Widdicombe – he always come back to our venue.

"Daniel Simonsen's 'Work in Progress' won the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer so it's been great to have him here."

Geoff Rowe said the growing national profile of the festival had helped, including the sponsorship of TV channel Dave, reviews in national papers and coverage on TV shows such as BBC Breakfast and Loose Women.

But he pointed out that none of it would have be possible without the "support received from people across the city and county.

"It's been an amazing 20th birthday!" he said. "We're now looking forward to a rest before continuing to plan for our 21st birthday in February 2014."

Dave's Leicester Comedy Festival 2013: The last laugh as 20th festival ends


Match verdict: No goals from Leicester City – but it's a big improvement

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You know things are not falling for Leicester City when even the usually infallible Chris Wood misses from the penalty spot.

Wood has been outstanding since joining City in January and has been prolific in front of goal, scoring eight times in seven games until Saturday's goalless draw at Blackpool.

However, he demonstrated that he is human after all when he crashed his spot-kick against the crossbar five minutes after half-time, following Alex Baptiste's trip on debutant Harry Kane.

There was double shock for City fans when Wood missed another golden opportunity to win the game when he scooped his shot wide from close range with the goal at his mercy.

That pretty much summed up how things have been going for City since their impressive surge into second place in the table ended at Peterborough two weeks ago.

It has been a horrendous fortnight, which also saw them crash out of the FA Cup on home soil at the hands of Huddersfield, and lose at the King Power Stadium to a Charlton side that had not won in their previous four games.

But City showed signs of getting back on track on a beach of a pitch in Blackpool. This was a markedly better performance.

City were outfought by Charlton last time out, but they rolled up their sleeves and more than matched Blackpool for effort in every department.

Free-flowing football was rendered impossible by the playing surface, so the game was reduced to a battle – and City had the stomach for it.

Andy King displayed how much his all-round game has developed with a battling display in midfield, while goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel was in outstanding form.

The Seasiders only really threatened through Tom Ince, and he had the hosts' best chance in the second half when he only had Schmeichel to beat, but the City keeper was equal to his effort.

City's rearguard has been the cornerstone of their season so far but, in recent weeks, they had looked vulnerable. However, they were back to their best on Saturday, led by superb captain Wes Morgan.

While others certainly were not relishing playing on arguably the worst pitch in the Football League, a pitch more suited for grazing cows, Morgan was like a bull at the back.

City had adopted an unfamiliar 4-3-3 system, with new signing Kane and David Nugent flanking Wood in attack.

City carried a strong attacking threat but lacked the punch to claim the three points which were up for grabs. That is the area they must improve upon tomorrow night when Blackburn come to town.

But the reaction of the travelling City fans summed up the mood at the final whistle. They may not have seen a victory, but they had appreciated a performance full of commitment, will and endeavour.

That is what City fans want to see first and foremost. Then they can forgive the odd penalty miss.

Match verdict: No goals from Leicester City – but it's a big improvement

Leicester Tigers: We must start winning run soon - Scott Hamilton

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Winger Scott Hamilton insists Leicester Tigers will "come out fighting" after their hopes of a semi-final spot were severely dented by a 32-27 defeat by Saracens.

The 32-year-old Kiwi said the four-try reverse at a snowy Welford Road on Saturday left him, and the rest of the Tigers team, with a "terrible feeling" as Sarries opened up a five-point lead over Tigers in second place.

The hosts led 17-3 at one stage after scores from Julian Salvi and Dan Bowden. But Saracens turned on the power after the break and scored four tries in just 23 minutes.

Hamilton admitted that result has put the pressure firmly on Richard Cockerill's side to start producing the goods in a hurry.

However, he believes Tigers are close to where they want to be after leading both Saracens and Harlequins at half-time in their last two matches.

"It's a terrible feeling to lose at home but we are not very far off," said Hamilton.

"Unfortunately, we have been saying that for a long time. We have not put in an 80-minute performance all season.

But we know that if we play the top teams, we are there or thereabouts.

"At the moment, we are not getting it right, but that is not to say that we can't do that in the future. We are not sitting in the changing room thinking Saracens are a better team than us. They have been the better team on the day – but we feel no team is beyond us and that we can beat any team in this league.

"If worse comes to the worse and we have to go on the road in the semi-finals, we will do. The belief is there and I am hoping we turn it around because we are going to have to do it soon.

"We have to start winning games or it will be a different pressure of trying to reach the top four, not the top two.

"The Sale game this weekend is a must-win for us. We have a couple of weeks off after this game and we will be going all out. Nothing will be left behind this weekend."

Director of rugby Richard Cockerill admitted that his side could not cope with the pressure they were put under in the second half.

"We controlled the field position and game well in the first half and the score reflected that," he said.

"Yet in the second half, it was a complete role-reversal. Saracens put us under pressure and we couldn't cope with it.

"We've got the best part of a team missing and Sale becomes pretty important now before we get everyone back for the run-in."

Leicester Tigers: We must start winning run soon - Scott Hamilton

Leicestershire woman, 84, lay in agony for three hours after 999 call

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Ambulance bosses have apologised after a woman was left lying on a pavement for three hours waiting for help.

Her worried son said he was told to "stop being a nuisance" when he tried to find out when help would arrive.

Iris Burton, 84, who had fallen near her house, was eventually taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where she had an operation to mend a broken hip.

The widow, from Ratby, also had a fractured shoulder blade.

Her son, Philip, is making a formal complaint to East Midlands Ambulance Service (Emas) about the delay.

He said: "My mother fell on the path by her house at about 6pm on Friday, February 15.

"It was dark and she couldn't move. She called for help for about 10 minutes and then a girl came by.

"She called 999 for an ambulance and then called me. I got there about five minutes later.

"The girl also called NHS Direct who told her we shouldn't move my mother."

When an ambulance had still not arrived by about 7pm, Mr Burton called himself.

He said: "I was told there wasn't an ambulance available and when I asked when one would be with us and where it was coming from, I was told to stop being a nuisance."

Mr Burton tried to make his mother comfortable and to keep her warm with hot water bottles and duvets from her house.

He said: "It was still awful for her. The cold was coming up from underneath on the pavement where she was lying and she was in agony."

An ambulance arrived at about 9.30pm and Mrs Burton was taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary where doctors said she had a broken hip and a cracked shoulder blade.

Mr Burton said: "The ambulance men were fantastic. They were brilliant, but I am going to make a formal complaint about the time it took to get an ambulance to my mother.

"She is doing all right at the moment. She had an operation on her hip on Saturday morning and her shoulder is in a sling, there is nothing more that can be done for that."

Karlie Thompson, divisional director for Emas South (Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire) said: "It is clear we did not get to Mrs Burton fast enough.

"While Mrs Burton's injuries were not immediately life-threatening, I do appreciate the pain and distress she will have experienced.

"I regret the delay in our response and offer our apologies.

"We were busy responding to calls including high demand for people reported to be in a life-threatening condition and providing transport for hospital patients who required life-saving treatment at a different centre."

The call had been categorised as "green 1" which meant an ambulance should have been with the patient in 20 minutes.

Zuffar Haq, a spokesman for the Leicester Mercury Patients' Panel, said: "It is unacceptable that people should be kept waiting this long.

"We expect medical assistance to be given within a reasonable time and this should be within at least half an hour."

Leicestershire woman, 84, lay in agony for   three hours after 999 call

Chris Wood won't pay the penalty for miss, insists Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson

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Nigel Pearson backed striker Chris Wood to bounce back after his penalty miss at Blackpool cost Leicester City all three points.

City were held to a goalless draw at Bloomfield Road but at least it brought an end to consecutive league defeats.

Chances were limited in a game played out on an atrocious pitch, but City were given a golden chance to break the deadlock on the hour when new signing Harry Kane was tripped inside the box.

Wood, who had scored eight times in his first seven games for City, stepped up but crashed his penalty against the bar.

The usually prolific striker then missed another great chance later on, but Pearson said Wood would not be affected by the miss.

"That is the first piece of disappointment Chris has had to deal with since he has been here," said the City boss.

"He is a level-headed lad and these things happen. We just have to move on from it. We had other opportunities as well, but there is no doubt it was a key point in the game."

Pearson admitted his side's failure to convert their chances was hampering their promotion challenge, but he backed his players to get back to winning ways quickly.

"We had enough chances to win the game so it is a bit of a tough time for us at the minute in terms of converting chances into wins," he said.

"But what you have to do in these situations is continue to work hard and apply yourselves properly. I think the players did that.

"We are fractions away from collecting maximum points at the moment. That is something we have to deal with."

Pearson was pleased with the debut of loan striker Kane, and said the Tottenham Hotspur player would boost his attacking options.

"I think it was a good debut by Harry," he said.

"He made a great chance for himself in the first half. It was fantastic technique and a good save from the goalkeeper.

"He showed a lot of tactical knowledge as well. His understanding of the systems we used was very good.

"I am delighted to have him on board. He coped with it pretty well."

City could be without David Nugent for tomorrow night's visit of Blackburn to the King Power Stadium after he again damaged his neck in a heavy challenge by Craig Cathcart.

Chris Wood won't pay the penalty for miss, insists Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson

Jilted boyfriend threatened to kill his ex and showed her photo of him with gun, Leicester court told

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A jilted boyfriend reinforced a chilling threat to kill his ex-girlfriend, by showing her this photograph of him holding a gun.

Ram Odedra (29) could not accept the breakdown of their four-month relationship.

Obsessed, he bombarded the frightened victim with nearly 200 missed calls and text messages, Leicester Crown Court was told.

When she took one of his calls, he told her he had an air rifle.

He said: "I swear on my mum's life I'll kill you with it.

"I'm going to shoot you."

After seeing him sentenced to 20 months imprisonment at Leicester Crown Court, the victim said: "It should have been longer.

"I was really scared and thought I was going to be killed."

The 29-year-old single mum, who lives in Leicester, said after the case: "I was constantly checking my doors and windows.

"As soon as I saw the picture of him holding the gun, I went straight to the police.

"He was charming when I first met him in a restaurant in Belgrave, but he became so jealous.

"He didn't even like me talking to my friends."

Odedra, of no fixed address, admitted making a threat to kill on November 15 last year.

He also pleaded guilty to harassment, between October and November.

A two-year restraining order now forbids any contact, or going to the street where she lives.

The court heard that on November 13, the victim dropped the defendant's belongings at his mother and sister's house. He then rang, saying: "You shouldn't have gone there.

"That's the biggest mistake you've made in your life."

Texts and a barrage of missed calls followed, said Victoria Rose, prosecuting.

On November 14 the victim had 51 missed calls. In two hours, on November 15, she had 70 missed calls.

Between November 16 and 17, she received 73 missed calls and 27 text messages.

They were generally pestering in tone, but not overtly threatening, apart from one when he said it was "the biggest mistake of her life".

When he called threatening to shoot her, she became terrified on seeing his new profile photos on Blackberry Messenger showing him holding a black air rifle.

Miss Rose said: "She was scared for her life and believed he would carry out the threat.

"Her sister was with her and recorded some of what he said, and was also extremely scared."

The defendant was arrested and an air rifle recovered.

Sentencing, Judge Philip Head, told Odedra: "You were, and are, a jealous, obsessive and controlling person.

"On October 25, you received a harassment warning, which should have been a shot across your bow.

"She was understandably scared for her life.

"You were under the influence of drink and drugs when you made the chilling threats.

"You thought she would believe you and you achieved your intention.

"It was a deliberate culmination of a campaign of harassment."

Linda Hinds, mitigating, said: "He had suffered the failure of a business and his marriage before this relationship.

"He recognises what he has done is wrong, the relationship is over and he should have accepted it. He's extremely sorry for what he's done and realises how much he must have frightened the complainant."

Odedra was clean of drugs and intended to remain drink and drug-free in future, she said.

Jilted boyfriend threatened to kill his ex and showed her photo of him with gun, Leicester court told

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