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Emergency as plane comes into East Midlands Airport

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Flight crews aboard an airline bound for East Midlands Airport were forced to declare an on-board emergency when a passenger had a panic attack. The 148-seater plane landed safely at 2.10pm today at the Castle Donington airport. The Jet2 flight (LS686) had been in the air for about two hours, on its way from Faro, in Portugal, when crews called ahead to make ground staff aware of the medical issue involving a man in his 40s. A spokeswoman for the East Midlands Ambulance service, which handled the incident, said: "We received a pre-alert at 13:53 reporting a patient on a flight into East Midlands Airport who was suffering from a panic attack. "A crew was dispatched and waited at the airport for the plane to land." It is not known whether the man was taken to hospital. A spokeswoman for East Midlands Airport said it was normal for airline staff to radio through and ask for assistance with medical issues. She said: "The plane was due to land here anyway so there was no emergency landing, but the crew had to call through because there was a passenger who had fallen ill. This is just normal procedure for an aircraft." A spokesman for Jet2 said: "The landing was simply because of a medical situation involving a passenger, who is now in the care of the paramedics."

Emergency as plane comes into East Midlands Airport


Leicester House Fire Deaths: Accused had drug convictions

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A man accused of killing a family of four in a house fire has a criminal record for drug dealing, a jury has been told. Richard Benson QC told Nottingham Crown Court today (MON) that his client Tristan Richards (22) was jailed for 30 months for possessing crack cocaine and heroin with intent to supply in 2012. Mr Benson said his client had also been sent to a young offenders institution for 12 months for four offences of supplying Class A drugs. He gave the evidence after other defendants in the case had spoken in court about his client's character. Mr Benson said that Richards had no convictions for violence, save for an official reprimand for assaulting a fellow pupil in a school playground when he was just 13. Richards, of Sparkenhoe Street, Highfields, Leicester, is one of eight defendants charged with the murders of Shehnila Taufiq, 47, her daughter, Zainab, 19, and sons Bilal, 17, and Jamal, 15, last year. They died in a house fire in Wood Hill, Spinney Hills, Leicester, on September 13 – hours after the fatal stabbing of 20-year-old Antoin Akpom in Kent Street, Highfields, Leicester, who was known to the defendants. The court also heard that police went to the home of fellow defendant Aaron Webb (20), of Saltersford Road, North Evington, Leicester, on Sunday, September 15. Detective Constable Ian McAndrew said that he and another detective spoke to Webb in the presence of his parents as a potential witness to what had happened on the previous days. Det Con McAndrew said Webb was "extremely vague and very anxious when he spoke to us – and very evasive". He said Webb, who was a friend of Antoin Akpom, had told the detectives that this would not bring his friend back. Webb also refused to make a written statement despite being pressed to do so by both of his parents, who became angry with him. Det Con McAndrew said Webb "became frightened and was shaking, and he was in tears". The court also heard that defendant Akeem Jeffers (21), of Car Mills, Buslingthorpe Lane, Leeds, was arrested as he left a lecture at Leeds Metropolitan University at 11.35am on September 25. Detective Constable Stuart Frobisher said that he and another detective picked Jeffers up from Leeds and took him to Leicester where they conducted nine interviews over a period of three days. The court heard that on legal advice Jeffers had answered "no comment" to most of the questions. He did make a brief written statement saying that in the hours before and after the fire he had switched his phone off because his battery was low, and he only turned it on to check if he'd had messages or missed calls. All of the eight defendants on trial are charged with four counts of murder. They all deny the charges. The other defendants are: Nathaniel Mullings (19), of Farrington Street, off Humberstone Road, Leicester; Jackson Powell (20), of Burnside Road, Saffron Lane estate; Shaun Carter (24), of Franche Road, Dane Hills, and Kemo Porter (19), of Browning Street, in the West End – all in Leicester. They are joined in the dock by a 17-year-old youth who cannot be named for legal reasons. The court has heard how the blaze was started when petrol was poured through the letterbox of the family's home and set alight. The trial continues.

Leicester House Fire Deaths: Accused had drug convictions

World Cup: We run the rule over England squad

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Roy Hodgson has made a statement of intent by naming a young England team for next month's World Cup. It is a brave decision from Hodgson to ditch the likes of Ashley Cole and Michael Carrick in favour of emerging players like Luke Shaw and Ross Barkley, and he should be applauded for it, even if England do find themselves on the plane back from Rio after the group stages. Never has an England side gone into a major tournament with so little expectation, and that may have been a factor in Hodgson's decision. With that burden lifted slightly, it has become the perfect competition in which to take a chance on youthful but inexperienced players. Hodgson seems to have one eye on Euro 2016 in France and the 2018 World Cup in Russia, competitions which certainly offer a better opportunity of success for England than a competition in South America. The inclusions of such exciting young players as Shaw, Barkley, Adam Lallana and Raheem Sterling will certainly stir England fans who have been so disappointed by the Three Lions' poor showings in recent tournament finals. Their inclusion would suggest England are going to adopt a positive attitude in Brazil, where just progressing from a difficult group will be seen as a bonus. We could just see an England side play with a freedom that hasn't been evident in previous England sides.ENGLAND WORLD CUP SQUADGoalkeepersJoe Hart (Manchester City): Has restored his reputation this season after a rough time at City, which saw him lose the No.1 jersey. No question he is England's number one.Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion): Has certainly had plenty of opportunity to impress at struggling Albion. Will be glad he reversed his decision to quit international football.Fraser Forster (Celtic): In contrast to Foster, Forster hasn't really been tested in Scotland in a Celtic side that has walked to the title. DefendersLeighton Baines (Everton): England's first-choice left-back has had a great season with Everton. May not be as defensively sound as Cole but offers more in the final third.Gary Cahill (Chelsea): Has been outstanding alongside John Terry in the Chelsea defence, but how much of that has been down to Terry's influence?Phil Jagielka (Everton): Has certainly improved his ability on the ball under Martinez and that will be vital in Brazil.Glen Johnson (Liverpool): Has never really fulfilled his potential but has had a solid campaign for Liverpool. Not really under pressure for his position.Phil Jones (Man Utd): Offers versatility as he can play at full-back and centre-back, or even in midfield as a last resort.Luke Shaw (Southampton): An exciting prospect who will surely take over from Baines as England's first-choice left-back in the future.Chris Smalling (Man Utd): Not had the best of seasons and has looked vulnerable at right back. MidfieldersSteven Gerrard (Liverpool): The captain has such an important role in this squad, and not just on the pitch. Has to lead by example.Ross Barkley (Everton): Football fans love to see all-action, exciting young players get their opportunity and Barkley could be England's secret weapon.Jordan Henderson (Liverpool): Initially struggled when he went to Liverpool but has benefited from playing alongside Gerrard and has flourished this season.Adam Lallana (Southampton): Another exciting player to come from Southampton. He could really make his mark coming off the substitute's bench.Frank Lampard (Chelsea): A few thought he could miss out but Hodgson has gone for Lampard, who has had a chequered England career.James Milner (Manchester City): His versatility will be key. May not have the flair of his colleagues but will do a job when called upon.Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal): When he is fit and firing, his pace causes defences so many problems.Raheem Sterling (Liverpool): Another speedy player who likes to run at defences and could really enhance his reputation this summer.Jack Wilshere (Arsenal): Another who has had injury problems, which have curtailed his progress at Arsenal.StrikersRickie Lambert (Southampton): Offers Hodgson a different option from the substitutes' bench.Wayne Rooney (Manchester United): Time for Rooney to shine and show he is truly a world-class player by performing on the biggest stage. England's key man.Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool): Had a fantastic season at Liverpool and is certainly going to Brazil in form.Danny Welbeck (Manchester United): Can make up for his club disappointments in Brazil. Has pace and power.Stand-by list: Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Andy Carroll (West Ham United), Tom Cleverley (Manchester United), Jermain Defoe (Toronto FC), Jon Flanagan (Liverpool), John Ruddy (Norwich City), John Stones (Everton).

World Cup: We run the rule over England squad

Police appeal for witnesses after pensioner assaulted at Melton cattle market

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Police are appealing for witnesses after a 70-year-old man was assaulted in Melton. The incident took place at around 10am on Tuesday, April 29 at the town's cattle market, in Scalford Road. The victim was walking near the main auction hall when he was involved in an altercation with the driver of a black car which was reversing. When the victim alerted the driver that he was in the way, by tapping on the window, he was pushed to the ground. PC Kev Marsh said: "The victim was not injured but was left badly shaken after being pushed to the ground by the driver of a black car. "A 40-year-old man is helping us with our enquires but we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident."

Police appeal for witnesses after pensioner assaulted at Melton cattle market

Police hunt man who exposed himself to 11-year-old girl in Birstall

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Police are hunting a man who indecently exposed himself to an 11-year-old girl. The girl was walking past a car parked in Saltersgate Drive, Birstall between 8.10am and 8.20am on Thursday,May 1. As she passed the vehicle, she noticed the man inside indecently exposing himself. The vehicle then drove off. The man is described as white, in his mid-forties and of medium build. He was wearing a tee-shirt and jeans. The car is described as green or blue, old looking, square in shape and dirty. It had a circular sign on the back above the number plate. PC Ed Stephenson, the investigating officer, said: "This incident was obviously quite upsetting for the girl. "I am appealing for the public's help to find this man. I would like to hear from anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and may have seen this man. "If you have any information which could assist with our enquiries please get in touch." Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Police hunt man who exposed himself to 11-year-old girl in Birstall

2502 (Hamilton) Squadron Air Cadets Walk for Remembrance

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Cadets and staff of 2502 (Hamilton) Squadron Air Cadets took part in the Annual Walk for Remembrance held at the National Memorial Arboretum.  This is the second year they have run this event to help raise funds for the upkeep of the Arboretum.  2502 were one of only two squadrons representing the Air Cadet Organisation.


The walk consisted of two distances 5K and 10K through the 150 acre site.  Flt Lt Faulkner, Corporal Petrie, Corporal Middleton and Cadet Middleton completing the 5K in good time. With Flight Sergeant Elliott, Sergeant Elliott and Cadet Adams all running around the 10K circuit to finish in the top 10.


After finishing the event the cadets also took advantage of the time to visit some of the 200 memorials on the site, taking in the RAFA memorial and the main Armed Forces Memorial.


As this year is the 100 anniversary of the start of World War 1, cadets paid special attention to the memorial called "Shot at Dawn" during WW1 306 men and boys were shot at dawn for a number of things but mainly desertion. The statue is a representation of Private Herbert Burden who was shot at Ypres in 1915 aged just 17 years of age, the same age as many Air Cadets today.

2502 (Hamilton) Squadron Air Cadets Walk for Remembrance

Residents' rat fears as Northfields street plagued by fly-tipping

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Residents fear rubbish being dumped by fly-tippers on land near their homes is encouraging rats.

Furniture, mattresses and, more recently, a fridge-freezer, are among the rubbish left on a site behind houses, flats and businesses in Woodgreen Road, Northfields, Leicester.

Mitesh Wagehla, a spokesman for the residents, has lived in the area for just over two years and said the problem had escalated since the end of December.

He said: "To give the council credit, it has been out to clear up the mess – the last time was about three months ago, but no sooner is it gone, than people come and dump some more there.

"No-one sees them do it but the proof is there for everyone to see.

"The signs saying fly-tipping is against the law are up but they are being ignored."

Mr Wagehla believes food waste is also being dumped along with the rest of the rubbish and this has attracted vermin.

"There is no doubt there are rats running around. The other night when I was driving home from work I saw what I first took for rabbits scuttling about.

"Then I thought rabbits don't hang around rubbish – and their ears weren't long enough. They were rats."

Leicester City Council has confirmed that the land on which the rubbish is being tipped is owned privately and that they are contacting the landowners – who have not been identified – to remove the refuse.

A spokesman said: "We have investigated and this rubbish is on private land, so we are writing to the owners requesting they remove it.

"If this approach doesn't resolve the issue, we would consider using our enforcement powers to order those responsible for the site to clean it up.

"If there are rats present at the site, the issue should be reported to us by calling 0116 454 1001.

"We can use our environmental health powers to clear sites and bill the owners if rats are found to be on the site.

"People can use the same number to tell us if they witness fly-tipping or have information about who may be fly-tipping."

Residents' rat fears as Northfields street plagued by fly-tipping

Bank card 'courier' scam gang member jailed

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A man involved in a phone scam which targeted elderly and vulnerable people has been jailed.

Thomas Simpson (20) was sent to prison for two years for his role in a gang which ran a "sophisticated" courier scam.

Leicester Crown Court heard fraudsters rang people claiming to be police officers and bank officials to trick victims to hand over bank cards and pin numbers.

An unsuspecting taxi driver would then be contacted to collect the cards and take them to the "police station" – which in reality was Simpson's home.

Adrian Harris, prosecuting, said it was Simpson's role to call the taxi and pick up the packages. He passed the packages on to other gang members but sometimes used the cards to withdraw cash.

Mr Harris said: "The gang targeted the elderly. Four out of the 10 people who lost money from their accounts or who were subject to the scam were aged over 70. One was 95."

The court heard the victims had £4,500 taken from their accounts, which was later reimbursed by their banks. In one case, the gang cleared the account of one woman with withdrawals of £30 and £190.

Mr Harris explained the scam involved a fraudster calling a target saying he was a police officer investigating a fraud on the victim's bank account.

The victim would then be urged to call their bank. They would be kept on the line and be referred to another member of the gang.

The victims would then give their bank details and be asked to key in their pin numbers using the touch tone key pad.

Mr Harris said Simpson on one occasion was seen on a CCTV wearing a deerstalker hat withdrawing money from a cash machine using a stolen card. He said an image on Simpson's mobile phone seized by the police read "Keep calm and commit fraud".

After being bailed by police, he continued to take part in the scam.

Simpson, of Totland Road, Leicester, admitted nine charges, including conspiracy to defraud, theft, and fraud by false representation.

He also pleaded guilty to his involvement in a separate money laundering scam where he was given a fee to get people to use their bank accounts to handle money taken from victims.

The court heard Simpson's parents had sent a heartfelt plea to keep their son out of prison.

Judge Simon Hammond said: "Courier fraud is widespread. Last year, there were 100 incidents in Leicestershire alone.

"You acted as a fixer in a sophisticated courier scam.

"A number of the victims were elderly and there is no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence."

He was given two years for the fraud charges and an extra six months in prison for the money laundering charge.

Bank card 'courier' scam gang member jailed


We're top for talent: A stellar run of sporting and showbiz successes is giving Leicestershire the feelgood factor

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Forget Britain's Got Talent, it should be Leicestershire's Got Talent. From the country's best bun maker, to the world's number one snooker player, Leicester has been bursting with success stories.

With X Factor winner Sam Bailey topping the charts, super seamstress Heather Jacks claiming a national sewing trophy and Leicester City winning the Championship, there must be something in the water.

Leicestershire – until now a hidden gem at the heart of the country – has become a hub for rising talent.

It started last October, when Frances Quinn was crowned winner of the Great British Bake Off. "Leicester seems to be a breeding ground for talent," said the 31-year-old, from Market Harborough.

"It's been like the Leicestershire relay and we've all passed the baton from one person to the next. It's lovely to think I was the first leg of that relay.

"It's great not to need to explain where Leicestershire is any more. Where do I start? The list of achievements is endless.

"There are so many different talents coming out of the city as well, there's something for everyone.

"And surely we can't move Richard III from this wonderful place?"

For Frances, the secret to success is "constant belief in what you do".

"You almost have to have a sporting psychology – you are going to come across hurdles but it's not over until it's over," she said.

Next up was working mum Sam Bailey – the prison officer of Leicester Forest East who won X Factor in December, before toping the charts at Christmas with debut single Skyscraper.

Not long after, fellow singer Sally Barker, of Lutterworth, made it to the final three in BBC's The Voice.

Despite not winning the contest, Sally managed to enter the UK Top 40 with her rendition of Olly Murs' Dear Darlin'.

Around the same time, Heather Jacks, who lives near Lutterworth, scooped the Great British Sewing Bee trophy.

"I'll tell you this," said Heather, 56, "if there is anyone from Leicester going for something, put money on them because the chances are they will win.

"It is just the most bizarre thing – what are the odds that all of these people are from Leicester?

"I think people see that other, ordinary people from Leicester can do it, so they think they can do it to.

"The secret is to always believe in what you do.

"Not making it first time isn't failing – just keep on trying."

In sport, Leicester Riders retained the BBL Cup and Leicester City have returned to the Premier League in style with a title win.

To top things off, snooker player Mark Selby, of New Parks, claimed the world championship just over a week ago.

Leicester City ambassador Alan Birchenall said: "The city is buzzing, we're living in a great city with some great people in.

"Leicester is so diverse and very cosmopolitan at the moment, it's a good place to come to.

"In the 40 years I've been here, the city has just grown.

"And. hopefully, we're only going to get better."

The Birch said the sight of people gaining success after success spurred others on to achieve something themselves.

"There always seems to be somebody in the news from Leicester, we've had a whole list of people make it over the past few years," he said. "The city has come a long way."

Anstey-born Molly Smitten-Downes was the latest to put the county on the map when she represented the UK at this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Unfortunately, the 27-year-old failed to wow the voters and finished in 17th place out of 26.

All that remains now is for Leicester Tigers to retain the Aviva Premiership title.

They face local rivals Northampton Saints in the play-off semi final on Friday.

The Birch said: "City have done it, Mark Selby's done it, now we just need Tigers to do it."

We're top for talent: A stellar run of sporting and showbiz successes is giving Leicestershire the feelgood factor

Rendall Munroe back in the gym training to be bodybuilder

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Former European boxing champ Rendall Munroe has set his sights on competitive bodybuilding after retiring from the professional fight game.

The 33-year-old called time on his boxing career last month after losing to Josh Warrington in Manchester in a Commonwealth title fight.

Rendall, who has a record of 30 wins and 10 losses, said there would not be another comeback this time, after already coming out of retirement once.

Instead, he said he was focusing his energy on a different sport – bodybuilding.

"I had a week off and I got back in the gym," said Rendall.

"I'm not one of those people who can sit around not doing anything.

"It's all I know and I love it – I hate not doing anything.

"The buzz I used to get from boxing, I now get from this. I've got the right physique for bodybuilding competitions and I like the clean living and the dedication you have to give to it.

"Eating more and lifting bigger weights is the only difference.

"But in a way it's better, because unlike boxing I can pretty much eat as much as I want – as long as it's the right stuff."

Rendall now has a strict training regime, visiting Sugar's Gym, in Elisabeth Street, North Evington, Leicester, most days of the week.

His diet has changed, too.

His daily food intake has increased and he fills the gap between meals with protein shakes.

"It's only been about two or three weeks, but I'm already getting a bit of size," he said.

"The only problem is I'm hungry all the time.

"The training is pretty much the same, just more compound moves such as bench presses and squats and I've got to up my calories to put on the weight."

Rendall's new gym, Sugar's, is owned by former British bodybuilding champion – and organiser of the Caribbean carnival – Dennis "Sugar" Christopher.

Sugar is also a UK competition judge and the vice-president of the UK Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (UKBFF).

He has been helping Rendall with his preparation and training.

Rendall said: "A lot of the lads at the gym help me out and give me advice.

"Sugar is a bodybuilding judge, so I can't think of anyone better to help me out.

"I haven't set myself any targets for competitions or anything – I'm just going to see how it goes and when I'm ready, I'm ready."

Sugar said: "Rendall is a true athlete and that's going to help him. He knows how to be committed to a sport."

Rendall Munroe back in the gym training to be bodybuilder

Quorn bid for their second trophy in showpiece final

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Quorn could pick up their second piece of silverware in a week when they face Blaby & Whetstone Athletic in the Westerby Challenge Cup final at the King Power Stadium tonight (7.45).

The Midland Alliance side topped off their first season in the division by lifting the League Cup last Tuesday with their 1-0 victory against Tipton Town.

Dominic Brennan, like so often this season, proved to be the match-winner once again, bagging his 26th goal of the season to secure the trophy.

Brennan could also chalk up another milestone if he keeps his shooting boots on tonight.

A goal for the striker will have seen him score in each round of the competition.

He got Quorn's Westerby campaign under way in October when he scored the opener in the 3-1 victory over Aylestone Park in round one.

His equaliser in the quarter-final against Harborough Town forced extra-time, which Quorn went on to win thanks to a winner from Oliver Brown-Hill. Quorn's passage to the final was much more straightforward, a 3-0 victory against Loughborough University, with Brennan grabbing the second.

Standing in their way, though, is a Blaby & Whetstone side in superb form.

They finished their East Midlands Counties season with a flourish, winning their last five games, all with clean sheets, to secure their fourth-placed finish.

Blaby also pulled off the result of the competition to book their place in the final, knocking out defending champions Coalville Town in the semi-final.

Evo-Stik side Coalville, who went on to beat City in the Westerby Cup Winners' Cup, were left stunned as Blaby took a 2-0 lead inside half-an-hour before hanging on to claim a shock 2-1 win.

Blaby also have a clinical striker of their own in the form of Aaron Preston who, like Brennan, could make sure he scores in every round of the competition.

He bagged a brace in his side's thrilling first-round clash with Holwell Sports, which ended in a 4-3 victory for Blaby after extra-time.

Preston doubled his tally again in the quarter-final, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory over Thurnby Nirvana before bagging his fifth goal of the campaign against Coalville in the semi-final.

Quorn bid for their second trophy  in showpiece  final

Leicester Riders: Jay Couisnard and Mackensie Westcott are the big award winners at club's end-of-season awards

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Jay Couisnard and Mackensie Westcott were the big winners when Leicester Riders held their end-of-season awards.

Riders finished the season with the BBL Cup and were fourth in the league to go with a heart-breaking one-point loss over two legs in the semi-finals of the play-offs.

Cousinard was selected as men's MVP of the season when the presentation night was held at the city's Mercure Hotel.

He led the scoring for Riders with 16.3 points per game on 50 per cent shooting from the floor and adding nearly six rebounds a game.

Anthony Rowe was the player's player of the season, despite missing the 'business end' with a severe knee injury.

Rashad Hassan was the top pick by the supporters' club, and Jorge Calvo was head coach Rob Paternostro's player of the season, while Conner Washington was selected as the most improved player.

Westcott picked up the players' and coach's awards for the Riders women's team that won their first-ever National Championship.

Maia Bratka, an Estonian international, was named as the women's MVP, while Robyn Lewis was the most improved player.

Meanwhile, former Leicester guard Zaire Taylor led Worcester Wolves to their first-ever BBL Play-off Championship with a 90-78 victory against league champions Newcastle Eagles before a crowd of 8,500 at Wembley Arena.

Taylor had 30 points and was game MVP for a Worcester team that blitzed the Eagles 29-15 in the first quarter and never looked back.

Riders' under-age teams had disappointing weekends.

The under-19 boys lost 70-60 to Barking Abbey in their national semi-final, and the under-19 girls were beaten 82-57 by Oakland College in their national semi-final at the University of East London.

The under-18 boys finished third in their National Schools finals after losing 72-68 to Loreto College in the semi-finals, before beating Ivybridge 82-69 for a third-place finish.

Leicester Riders: Jay Couisnard and Mackensie Westcott are the big award winners at club's end-of-season awards

Leicester Tigers could name their best XV for first time

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Martin Crowson looks back at five key issues from the weekend's rugby action.

1I have already heard many people say this is Northampton's best chance to beat Leicester in Tigers' recent domination of the fixture. A home semi-final, bookies' favourites, the momentum of a 74-point score and few injuries to worry about. But, and whisper it quietly with injury doubts, Tigers could name a team that some would argue is their best XV for the first time. How does Ayerza, T Youngs, Mulipola, Slater, Parling, Croft, Salvi, Crane, B Youngs, Flood, Morris, Allen, Tuilagi, Goneva, Tait grab you?

2Last week, I spent time calling for less TMO intervention in the game. But on Saturday, surely the TMO should have been called into action to investigate the red card that was given to Saracens' Justin Melck? The flanker's dismissal certainly changed the game in Tigers' favour and a red card for alleged eye gouging could lead to a very long ban. There have been several Tigers in recent years banned for no more than circumstantial evidence. Referee Greg Garner took the word of the touch judge and dismissed Melck instantly. Tigers hooker Neil Briggs was the apparent victim. "He said it was just a hand across his face," explained Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill. "He said there was no gouging and it was a mistake by the official."

3There was a fond farewell from the Leicester Tigers faithful for those players making their final appearance at Welford Road after the Saracens game. Among those were people who have given a lot behind the scenes, like forwards Boris Stankovich and Rob Hawkins, and a man who has made a huge statement this season in Dan Bowden. Thomas Waldrom made more than 100 appearances, scored 20 tries and put smiles on lots of faces, while Toby Flood will go down as one of the most influential fly-halves in the club's history.

4Speaking of Toby Flood, his new club Toulouse made a name for themselves for all of the wrong reasons at the weekend. As well as serving up a turgid performance in a home play-off defeat by Racing Metro, there was a horrific incident surrounding centre Florian Fritz. The French international was struggling to stand with blood pouring down his face after a collision with someone's knee. He left the field clearly concussed – only to be astonishingly sent back on later in the game. In doing so, Toulouse raised two fingers to recent concerns over concussions and they should be hauled over hot coals for it.

5The competitiveness of this season's Aviva Premiership was clear when Bath missed out on a play-off spot following the narrow defeat at Harlequins. Mike Ford's side have received acres of column inches this season extolling the virtues of a side who finally looked like breaking through into the top four after years of missing out. They were in the top four for all but one of the league's 22 rounds. Just when it mattered most, they dropped out again. For their sake, I hope owner Bruce Craig doesn't wield his sizeable axe. Bath need consistency more than ever.

Leicester Tigers could name their best XV for first time

Leicester City: We had to keep Kevin Phillips - Nigel Pearson

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Football cannot afford to allow players with the knowledge of striker Kevin Phillips to leave the game, believes Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson.

The 40-year-old officially retired after City's final game of the season, and Pearson and Phillips have shaken hands on an agreement for the striker to join his backroom team for the new campaign.

The actual details of his role are still being drawn up but, Pearson said it was important to utilise the experience Phillips has gained from his 20-year career and not allow it to go to waste.

"We have talked about it," said Pearson. "It hasn't been finalised yet, but for someone of his abilities, I think he has lots of potential to become a coach or manager.

"It would be a shame to lose that level of knowledge.

"When you hear the players talk about him, they hold him in high esteem and have a lot of respect for him.

"All those things together give us a very good opportunity to utilise him and bring him into the fold in a coaching role.

"He has brought an awful lot to the club, not just on the pitch but off the pitch."

Phillips said it was an opportunity he could not turn down and, while he wants to be an all-round coach, he admits it would be natural for him to mentor City's strikers.

"We haven't really gone into detail about what my role will be," he said.

"It was just a quick conversation about would I come on board. I said yes.

"Naturally, you would think I would work with the strikers. That is the area of my expertise.

"I need to learn a bit of everything but I will certainly try to work with the strikers.

"For me, it is exciting times. I am not a player who can retire and then has nothing to do but sit around, or playing on the golf course.

"I will be busy and you will probably see more of me, although I will probably let Shakey (assistant boss Craig Shakespeare) and the gaffer do all the media stuff.

"I will be out and about doing games for Sky as well."

Leicester City: We had to keep Kevin Phillips - Nigel Pearson

Leicester Tigers: Saints will be 'different beast' to previous game - Mat Tait

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Northampton Saints will be a different beast with fly-half Stephen Myler pulling the strings during Friday night's Premiership semi-final, according to Leicester Tigers full-back Mat Tait.

The 29-year-old Myler was out injured when Tigers went to Franklin's Gardens in March and came away with a 22-16 victory.

That was the 10th consecutive game Saints had failed to beat their local rivals.

Myler will be in the No.10 shirt this time around, though, and Tait says he will "make a big difference" to how Saints play.

"We know how Saints will play and the key for them is having Stephen Myler back," said Tait.

"He is very under-rated and makes them tick. He kicks their goals and he will make a big difference to them now he is back in the side.

"Myler organises them and distributes well. He had the most assists (for tries) in the league as well last season and doesn't get as much credit as he deserves."

England loose-head prop Alex Corbisiero has also returned from injury since the club's last meeting, and that means only hooker Dylan Hartley is a doubt in an almost fully-fit Saints squad.

Hartley has not appeared since injuring his shoulder against Leicester in the club's last meeting, and Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder has been consistently vague about any possible return date.

"They have a big physical pack and they will be pleased to get Corbisiero back in there," said Tait.

"Dylan Hartley will be a huge loss if he is still out though.

"He is an international player and it is always good to see him and Youngsy (Tom Youngs) go at each other."

Tait was part of the Tigers side that secured third place in the table by beating Saracens 31-27 on Saturday.

Leicester were cruising at 24-8 but Tait admitted they "took their foot off the gas" for a second game in succession and let Sarries nearly sneak an unlikely win at the end.

He has promised there will be no chance of that happening again on Friday.

"We thought it was in the bag against Sarries and the last five minutes were a bit hairy to say the least," he said. "We thought the game was won and we took our foot off the gas.

"There will be no chance of that occurring at Franklin's Gardens where they will be ploughing into us for 80 minutes. It's winner takes all.

"Saints are on good form having won 74-13 last weekend. To put 70-odd points on a professional side is some effort.

"It will probably add to their confidence and they will not be afraid to try things.

"But they will be also be wary of us."

Leicester Tigers: Saints will be 'different beast' to previous game - Mat Tait


Thailand 'celebrating City's promotion to Premier League as much as Leicester'

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The people of Thailand have been celebrating as much as the people of Leicester since City secured their place in the Premier League, vice- chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha has said.

Manager Nigel Pearson, his staff and players are in Thailand for a week of relaxation and celebration after the Championship title success.

Aiyawatt, known as Top, said from the moment City had clinched promotion, he and his father, chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, were bombarded with requests to take the team back to their homeland.

Top said the entire country was proud of City's success.

"They have gone crazy," said Top. "They know Championship and Premier League football.

"They know now that Thai people own a club that is going to play in the Premier League.

"They are excited and they support the team. They wanted to see the team and asked me to bring the team back to Thailand.

"All the media, everyone wants to see the team and wants to know more about it.

"It is good for the city and the club, and football here, that the whole country is supporting the team.

"Thai people have always loved football. They get really excited when we said we would bring the team."

But Top added it was also time for the players to relax.

He said: "They have tried very hard every week, so it is time to relax, spend time together and just enjoy their time in the country."

Thailand 'celebrating City's promotion to Premier League as much as Leicester'

Leicester City's Jeff Schlupp gets call-up to World Cup

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Leicester City's Jeff Schlupp has taken a big step closer to fulfilling his dream of appearing at the World Cup.

He was yesterday named in Ghana's provisional 26-man squad for Brazil.

The 21-year-old, who came through City's academy system as a striker, has been named among the Black Stars' defenders for the finals.

He could be joined in Brazil by City team-mate Riyad Mahrez, who was named in Algeria's provisional 30-man squad earlier this week.

Mahrez is currently in training with the squad at the Algeria Football Federation technical centre in Sidi Moussa, near Algiers.

Schlupp, whose only cap came in November 2011, has come to the attention of Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah after his displays at left-back in City's Championship title campaign.

He made 15 league starts and 11 substitute appearances this season and has previously told the Mercury that making the World Cup squad would cap a dream season.

"It has come at a good time, to be playing regular football in a promotion-winning team and with the World Cup coming," said Schlupp, who is currently with the rest of the Leicester squad in Thailand. You never know, so fingers crossed. I have spoken to the (Ghana) manager a few times.

"I don't mind how he wants to use me. I would go to the World Cup as the kit man."

Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzi said Mahrez's performances for City since joining in January from Le Havre had convinced him to have a closer look at the 23-year-old.

"I learned about Mahrez at the end of February," he said. "They told me he was an interesting prospect. I watched him play a few matches, he can do good things."

Both the Algeria and Ghana squads will be finally whittled down to 23 before FIFA's deadline of June 2.

Leicester City's Jeff Schlupp gets call-up to World Cup

Live: Traffic and travel updates for Leicester and Leicestershire

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7.22am: Heavy traffic on the A563 Glenhills Way in Aylestone, Leicester, between Pork Pie roundabout and the A426 Lutterworth Road junction.7.16am: Traffic busy but moving along Waterloo Way, between train station, and Humberstone roundabout, in Leicester.For more local and national travel information and weather updates see the links below:MOTORWAY UPDATES: For traffic updates on UK motorways and other key roads - CLICK HERE.LIVE CAMERAS: Check the M1 through Leicestershire with our live traffic cameras - CLICK HERE.NATIONAL RAIL: For live UK train updates - CLICK HERE. FLIGHT INFORMATION: For East Midlands Airport visit: CLICK HERE.WEATHER: See the latest five-day weather report for Leicester and LeicestershireCONTACT NEWSDESK: Send us your news and pictures. Tweet us @Leicester_Merc or email newsdesk@leicestermercury.co.uk

Live: Traffic and travel updates for Leicester and Leicestershire

Motorist escapes car as it is engulfed by flames in South Kilworth

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A motorist escaped from a crashed car shortly before it was engulfed by flames. Emergency services were called to Rugby Road, South Kilworth, near Lutterworth, yesterday. A fire service spokeswoman said: "It appears the car left the road and collided with a tree, ending up in a hedge. "The occupant was out of the vehicle prior to our arrival and being treated by the ambulance service. "Fuel from the vehicle, however, had ignited and the car caught fire. "Police were in attendance and closed the road while crews dealt with the incident." She added: "The casualty was taken by ambulance to Kettering General Hospital. "No-one else was hurt in the incident." The accident, which involved just the one vehicle, happened at about 11.30am. No details are available about the extent of the motorists injuries. The car was destroyed by the fire.

Motorist escapes car as it is engulfed by flames in South Kilworth

Girls' football: Cosby under-15s miss out on treble after cup final loss

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Cosby Girls Under-15s' incredible season ended in disappointment when they narrowly missed out on completing the treble.

Cosby fell 7-4 to Rugby Town Girls in the League Cup final at the weekend, their first defeat of the season.

They had previously coasted to the league title with 20 wins from 20 games, including a 19-0 victory, and scoring a staggering 160 goals in the process.

They triumphed in the County Cup, winning 15-0 in the final at Holmes Park.

Coach Mark Cox said the final was "the best they played all season" and was quick to praise the girls' achievements this year.

He said: "I don't take any credit for their performances this season.

"They're a superb bunch of girls and they get on with each other so well. Anybody could coach them.

"People think they just turn up and turn it on but it's not like that.

"It's the culmination of a great deal of hard work. It shows a lot of application on their part."

The team, who have been together since under-12 level, will also be representing the East Midlands on the national stage this summer.

They will be travelling to the NEC on June 19 to compete in a Futsal tournament after winning the Leicestershire finals and producing more successful performances in the regional round.

Girls' football: Cosby under-15s miss out on treble after cup final loss

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