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Leicester Tigers: Big brother Tom Youngs gives seal of approval to captain Ben

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Leicester Tigers hooker Tom Youngs said his younger brother Ben is doing a cracking job of motivating the squad after stepping up into the role of captain.

Ben made it four wins out of four as skipper as he led Tigers to a big 24-20 win at Exeter last weekend.

The 25-year-old is expected to lead the side out once again against Bath at the Rec on Saturday as both sides look to extend their unbeaten starts to the season.

Tom thinks Ben has shown a lot of maturity since being handed the role by director of rugby Richard Cockerill in pre-season.

"Ben is doing fantastically well," said Tom. "He has always been a good talker and he has a good rugby brain.

"He understands what he is doing and, being a scrum-half, he sees a lot of the game.

"What he does well is not to try to take control of everything, he lets other people look after their bits. He links it all together.

"We have good leaders everywhere who take charge of their little things. As a captain, you don't have to take charge of everything if there are guys around you to take the pressure off.

"Ben is a good motivator and a good talker. He talks a lot of sense before the games and is doing very well."

Tom made his first start of the season at Exeter after overcoming a tight hamstring in pre-season.

A summer off rugby, as well as the signing of Italy international Leonardo Ghiraldini, has left Youngs in a good place and looking forward to developing his partnership with a man he has gone head to head with on numerous occasions.

"With Leo coming in, it gives Cockers a chance to rotate us and keep us fresh," he said.

"You don't see many people doing 80 minutes anymore and it's good to have guys on the bench who are just as good and can come on and charge around for 20 or 30 minutes. "Cockers has used the bench well this season and if we can keep it ticking over, we will do well.

"Leo has more than 50 caps for Italy and that speaks for itself. I have been impressed with him and he has settled in well.

"I have played against him several times and he's a good player.

"There is a bit of competition between us but we are really just trying to help each other.

"Our rivalry with Bath has been tucked away a little but, when I was a kid, it was a huge rivalry. They are a good side but last week proved that we can perform away from home."

Leicester Tigers: Big brother Tom Youngs gives seal of approval to captain Ben


Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson says his side must maintain their defensive strength

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Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson said his side must maintain their defensive strength to be a success in the Premier League.

Pearson has been delighted with the way his team have stood firm against some of the best sides in the Premier League.

But he warned they must keep up those standards.

Although last Saturday's 1-0 win at Stoke was City's first clean sheet of the campaign, the statistics do not tell the whole story as Pearson's men have soaked up plenty of pressure against Everton, Arsenal and Chelsea.

It took two superb strikes for Everton to breach City's rearguard, while it took Chelsea more than an hour before they managed to score. 

The Gunners found opportunities limited at the King Power Stadium, while at the Britannia Stadium last week, goalkeeper Ben Hamer was largely untroubled until Stoke applied plenty of pressure late on.

Stoke were restricted mostly to long-range efforts and deep crosses, which City defended well. Pearson said it had been a collective effort.

"For any individual unit within a side to be able to do well, they have to be part of a very strong team," he said. 

"When you look at the amount of set-plays and attacks in our final third that we have had to deal with, the players have shown an ability to keep their concentration.

"But, also, we have had numerous blocks and that shows the desire of our players to limit our opponents to the number of chances they have had.

"Certainly at Stoke, we were put under a lot of pressure in terms of defending the box, and I know Ben made a number of important saves.

"But for the most part we kept them at arm's length because of our organisation and commitment and desire to keep the ball out.

"They have done very well. There are always things we can improve on but I am pleased with how they have done, but they are very much part of a side that is working hard for each other.

"That is the point. We defend as a team. For the back five to be able to function as they do, it means the rest of the team have discipline as well.

"We defend very well from the front and our midfield unit has been excellent so far as well."

Leonardo Ulloa may have caught the eye with his three goals in four games so far, but Pearson said the striker emphasises his point that it is a team effort.

"His contribution to the team has been very positive this season," added Pearson.

"To be a success in any division, let alone this one, you have to score enough goals.

"For him to get off to the start he has proves we have a player capable of scoring at this level.

"But his all-round game has been a big factor in our decent start to the season.

"He is reliable when he defends set-plays and he gives us balance and a different option to the other forwards at our disposal. It is nice to have options."

Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson says his side must maintain their defensive strength

16-year-old boy crowned UK's Best Young Driver

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Even though he is not yet old enough to have officially passed his test, a 16-year-old is celebrating being crowned the UK's Best Young Driver.

Troy Hickling, of Glen Parva, finished first in the 14 to 16 age category after beating hundreds of others from across the country at the finals of the 2014 Young Driver Challenge.

More than 350 young people entered the competition, with 40 making it to the final, which was held at the Birmingham NEC last Saturday.

The entrants were tested on a number of things including practical driving skills, manoeuvres, and their knowledge of the Highway Code

Troy, who goes to Countesthorpe College, said: "It was an amazing feeling even to be in the final. To then learn I'd won the whole event was just incredible, I'm stunned. It was quite a challenging test and we knew the judges were marking our ability based on a lot of different driving skills and manoeuvres.

"We had to show how well we could do things like parallel parking, reversing, tight steering, emergency stops and turns in the road, as well as undertake independent driving.

"It's reassuring to know I'm doing so well, and all this experience will obviously be a great help when I come to learn on the road aged 17."

Troy was praised by judges on his control of the vehicle, precise manoeuvres and quick thinking.

Troy's mum Natasha Shutt, 38, of Glen Parva, said: "I am absolutely over the moon - he totally deserved it. We are extremely proud.

"He will be 17 in March and straight away he wants to take driving lessons. He just wants to get a car and start driving."

The competition was organised by Young Driver, which is a provider of driving tuition for under-17s, and it was open to people aged between 11 and 16. There were two categories - the 11 to 13 age category and 14 to 16 category.

For winning his age category, Troy won 20 Young Driver lessons, 20 on the road post-17 driving lessons courtesy of Goodyear, a Young Driver at school session for him and his classmates and £500 off a car insurance premium courtesy of Young Driver sponsor Admiral.

Judges at the final included representatives from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and Goodyear, along with specialist ex-police driving instructor Gary White, and several driving instructors.

Mark Lewis, director of standards for IAM, said: "We knew when we got involved with Young Driver that the standard of teaching was very high, but the students really demonstrated control of their car and abilities way beyond their years.

"By catching drivers young, before they get influenced by their peers, I firmly believe we're saving lives in the future. Troy showed so much skill behind the wheel, we were delighted to award him first place. Congratulations, it's very well deserved."

Kim Stanton from Young Driver said this first year's competition had been a huge success: "This competition has proven just how much young people can learn before they are even officially old enough to drive.

"We'd like to say a massive congratulations to Troy, as he really did provide a fantastic demonstration of just how good a driver a young person can be. The standard of entries was extremely high, so all of our finalists and winners should feel hugely proud of their achievements."

For more information about the challenge, or to book a Young Driver lesson, visit www.youngdriver.eu or call 0844 371 9010.

16-year-old boy crowned UK's Best Young Driver

Gary Silke column: I'd only ever witnessed an atmosphere like it after really important games

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As I had to wait for a friend in another part of the ground after last Saturday's game at Stoke, I had a good chance to observe some 3,000 Leicester City fans as they streamed out of the away end.

There was a strange atmosphere, that I have only witnessed after really important games.

People were beaming from ear to ear, delighted, singing the new Leonardo Ulloa song.

Mates were hugging each other and punching the air. Although from a neutral point of view it was a fairly bog-standard Premier League fixture (as evidenced by the air-time it received on Match of the Day 2) it felt important, and almost like the beginning of a new era for our club. What had they just witnessed? The first half was possibly the worst of the season to date, but that is a bit harsh as they have set the bar high.

The introduction of Danny Drinkwater and Esteban Cambiasso for the second half then saw Nigel Pearson's side move up a gear.

Cambiasso's assured orchestration of proceedings was a delight to watch, and when he becomes more used to his team-mates' strengths and weaknesses, he will be a formidable cog in City's machine.

His fellow Argentinian, Ulloa, then came up with a piece of magic to somehow reach back to a cross that was a yard behind him and direct it into the net. 

Here is a striker who not only takes his chances, but takes his half-chances. Just what you need in the Premier League.

At the other end, stand-in keeper Ben Hamer proved, with a couple of great saves late on, that if Kasper Schmeichel isn't fit, then we don't have a problem.

And so the final whistle heralded City's first away win in the Premier League since March 2004, and there we were – in the top half of the league table.

Sunday brings the absolutely mouth-watering prospect of Manchester United coming to town.

Although they are a bit below par by their own standards at present, they are still the very epitome of the glamour and glitter of the Premier League.

Their major new signing, Angel Di Maria, was described as "world-class" by United boss Louis van Gaal.

Well, having paid nearly £60million for him, you would hope so.

It will be interesting to see how this Argentinian compares to our, rather cheaper ones. 

You have to go back a few years for our last home league win against United. 

Twenty nine years ago I recall standing in Pen Three of the Kop watching possibly City's greatest performance under Gordon Milne.

It was Laurie Cunningham's debut for City, while Gary McAllister, Ali Mauchlen and Alan Smith were all on top form. City were 3-0 up within half-an-hour as the Kop became one surging mass of celebration.

The tape of this game was made available for hire in local video shops and actually went to number one in the Leicester charts. I wouldn't mind hiring it out now, if anyone has a copy.

Gary Silke column:  I'd only ever witnessed an atmosphere like it after really important games

Leicester City striker Leonardo Ulloa determined to be Premier League hit like fellow Argentinians

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Leonardo Ulloa is determined to follow in the footsteps of famous Argentinian exports who have been a big hit in English football.

The 28-year-old, who hails from General Roca in central Argentina, has watched his fellow countrymen arrive in the Premier League and make a big impact.

Now Ulloa says he is striving to be just as successful.

Ulloa is one of 22 Argentinians playing in the Premier League and, while he admits he is not quite at the level of Manchester City's Sergio Aguero, former Manchester United striker Carlos Tevez, or even his new City team-mate Esteban Cambiasso, he said he is always looking to improve his game.

"There is a good tradition of Argentinian players in England but, for me, I am not at that level yet of Aguero, Tevez and now Cambiasso," said Ulloa, who has scored three times in his first four games for City.

"When I watch games, I try to copy their moves and their style.

"When Tevez stops the ball and shields it from the defenders, I try to learn that, how to lean into the defenders. I am a different player, I am bigger, but I try to learn different things to be a better player and help the team."

Ulloa faces two more of his compatriots when Angel Di Maria and Marcos Rojo arrive at the King Power Stadium on Sunday with Manchester United.

Although Ulloa does not know Di Maria or Rojo personally, he is familiar with their ability.

"I have never played with them before, but I know they are good guys," he said.

Unlike Di Maria and Rojo, who have played for their country and at the highest level of domestic football, this is the biggest stage that Ulloa, who joined City from Championship side Brighton, has ever been on.

"It is different because in the Premier League there is more quality and intensity," he said. "But it is not a massive difference. I am enjoying the experience."

Leicester City striker Leonardo Ulloa determined to be Premier League hit like fellow Argentinians

Drama and dance used to tackle cyber bullying in Aylestone, Leicester

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Dance, drama and singing is being used to help children learn about the serious issue of cyber bullying.

A group called Musical Youth Organisation is running weekly sessions for year six children from three Aylestone primary schools to help them learn about the issue in a creative way.

A total of 60 children aged 10 and 11 are rehearsing a play about cyber bullying for one hour every Tuesday afternoon.

Marriott Road Primary School, Montrose Primary School, and Granby Primary School are all involved, with 20 children from each school taking part in the project.

In November, the pupils will then perform the play at their own primary school.

Musical Youth Organisation, which has been running for 15 years, has produced many performances over the years which have addressed a range of issues.

The organiser of the group Elaine Tewley said she believes cyber bullying is a problem which needs to be tackled.

"This is a real social issue. The problem is escalating and we need to nip it in the bud now."

She added that the sessions are going well so far.

"They have responded really well. It is a learning process.

"One of the songs they sing is called Don't You Wish The World Was Bullying Free and they have picked it up really well."

Elaine said that it is empowering for the children knowing that they will be passing on this important message.

"Then, when they go to secondary school they know about cyber bullying."

She added that the Musical Youth Organisation would like to take this project into other schools in Leicestershire. The performances will also be recorded and the footage can be shown in other schools to help get the message across.

Funding for this project came from the local ward councils - Aylestone and Freeman.

Montrose Primary School is hosting the rehearsals. Head teacher Andy Owens said this project has more than one benefit.

"It is to inform the children themselves and they will also perform it to parents and other children. It is a case of passing the message on.

"It is a also nice opportunity to get all children working together over something that is a growing issue in schools.

"It is a good example of schools co-operating across the authority."

Ellie Toon, who is working on the project as a singing and dance co-ordinator, said cyber bullying is a serious issue that needs to be opened up.

Ellie said even on the bus on the way to the sessions the staff have been having conversations about cyber bullying with the students.

"The sessions are going fantastically," she added.

She said that her daughter has attended other sessions ran by musical youth and it has been beneficial and got her talking about issues.

As well as the cyber bullying project, the organisation runs sessions on Mondays in Blaby and a class on Tuesday in Wigston. The sessions are for four to 16 year olds and tackle issues in a creative way.

For more information visit: www.musicalyouthleicester.co.uk or phone Elaine on: 07980159607

Drama and dance used to tackle cyber bullying in Aylestone, Leicester

Leicester Forest East shop wins national award

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The owners of a Leicester shop say they are "amazed" to have been given a national award.

Hayre's News, in Leicester Forest East, has fought off the competition of thousands of shops to be selected as one of the Top 100 convenience stores across the UK and Ireland by Independent Achievers Academy (IAA).

Jag Hayre and his wife Amrit Kaur have been running the Leicester Forest East newsagents for three years.

Jag said being giving this award was fantastic.

"I am pretty shocked. To do what we have done is amazing."

He added that they were assessed on many areas including presentation of the shop, quality of their products and how they deal with customers.

He said his shop goes the extra mile for the community.

"The older generation ring up and place an order, I write a list and drop the shopping off."

He added that they also raise money for charities including Loros and Help for Heroes by holding collections.

"In the space of three years this is a massive achievement."

He said he thinks the shop presentation and their good customer service helped them to get into the top 100.

"It is a close knit community and we do a lot for it.

"Customers say that we are always friendly and smiling. We work hard as well.

"Going that extra mile for the community is the most important thing. People appreciate that - you don't get that from a large superstore."

Jag's wife Amrit Kaur said she was really surprised to hear that they had been chosen as one of the top 100 convenience stores in the country.

She added that she thinks their customer service has a personal touch, which probably helped them to be win this award.

"It does not feel like you are at work. It is like you are at home.

"We are just so proud of it. Our family worked really hard."

Connaught Road Post Office, in Market Harborough and Belvoir News, in Coalville also made the top 100 list.

The IAA Top 100 list was compiled after a evaluation process, which includes a mystery shop assessment. All entrants are judged across 12 core principles of retailing, from customer service through to retail innovation.

A retail marketing specialist, called Newtrade, run these awards. Newtrade managing director Nick Shanagher said: "Our list of the Top 100 recognises the hard work that retailers and their staff are putting in all over the country. We are lucky to be able to showcase what great local retail looks like, which helps family businesses to further develop and compete to serve their local communities.

"Our list of the Top 100 recognises the hard work that retailers and their staff are putting in all over the country. We are lucky to be able to showcase what great local retail looks like, which helps family businesses to further develop and compete to serve their local communities."

To see the full list visit: http://www.betterretailing.com/IAA/top100/

Leicester Forest East shop wins national award

Police issue photos of burglary victim's stolen valuables

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Police have released photographs of valuables which were stolen when a home was burgled. The owner's home in Woodlands Drive, Loughborough was burgled between 7.45am and 5.10pm on Wednesday, August 27. The stolen items include a small Middle Eastern silver dagger broach with the word 'Joan' engraved on it and a pin badge with the words 'General Nursing Council' on it. The intruders also stole two Samsung laptop computers, a gold necklace with a St Christopher on it and several pairs of cufflinks. Detective Constable Chris Hayton said today: "The items pictured are distinctive and we would urge anyone who recognises them or has come across anyone trying to sell them to contact us. "We would also like to speak to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity around Woodlands Drive on Wednesday, August 27. "The incident took place in broad daylight and if you saw or heard anything which could assist with our inquiries please get in touch." Contact Det Con Hayton on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Police issue photos of burglary victim's stolen valuables


Widow uspet at no council memorial to husband who was shot in Leicester siege 39 years ago

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A widow has laid a wreath to her ambulanceman husband - 39 years after he was shot and killed in a siege in Leicester.

But Helen Wilkinson is upset that her local council has not marked the sacrifice made by Terry who was gunned down in the street as tried to save the life of a police officer at the incident in Lambourne Road in 1975 which left three people dead.

Mrs Wilkinson laid a wreath at the National Memorial Arboretum - the UK's Centre of Remembrance in Staffordshire today.

Mrs Wilkinson, 67, of Braunstone, said: "It is good that Terry is being remembered like this but I am bitter that after nearly 40 years the council has done nothing.

"My husband - the father of my two children - was a hero and made the ultimate sacrifice as he tried to do this job and help save the life of a police officer who had been shot.

"Despite him having done this there has been no recognition of his bravery from Leicester city council.

"I would have thought that the council could have got their heads together to pay tribute to Terry somehow.

"They seem to be able to get plaques up and pay respects to other people but not to a proper Leicester lad who lived in the city and lost his life serving the local community."

Terry left two daughters Sharon, now 47, and Julie, now 42.

Sharon, who lives with her mother and sister, said she was disgusted by the lack of commemoration by the council.

She said: "We have waited and waited and nothing has happened.

"My dad was very brave on that night yet there is nothing in the city to mark that bravery. Our family was ripped apart and life was never the same for us.

"Me and my sister have had to grow up without a dad but it's almost as if it didn't happen."

Former ambulanceman Peter Ufton, who wrote a book about the siege, said he felt a memorial could have been erected.

He said: "I think it would have been nice and would not have taken much thought or money from the council."

A Leicester city council spokesman said: "This must have been a truly devastating event in the city, with the tragic loss of three lives.

"We understand that the ambulance service dedicated a plaque in Mr Wilkinson's name, and also named a room at their Meridian training centre after him.

"These are very fitting tributes, and the service at the National Arboretum will provide another opportunity for his heroism to be remembered."

Sue Noyes, chief executive of East Midlands Ambulance Service, also laid a wreath at the ceremony in Staffordshire.

A spokeswoman for the east Midlands Ambulance Service said: "Mr Wilkinson is remembered by past and present staff.

"The Wilkinson suite at the Meridian Training Centre in Leicestershire is full of EMAS colleagues taking part in essential education and they can all see the memorial clock and plaque and read about Terry's heroic act."

The siege took place in Lamborne Road, West Knighton, on September 1 1975 after Sabi Nikoloff started shooting.

He had been brooding in a local pub then walked into the street and shot resident Enid Cabaniuk in the head with a shotgun at point-blank range.

He hated her after she had given evidence at his divorce hearing.

When the emergency services flooded the scene he started shooting again.

Sgt Brian "Geordie" Dawson, 42, and Pc Margaret Dayman, 24, were shot.

Pc Alan Christian was also blasted by the gunman.

Ambulance man Terry Wilkinson and his driver tried to manoeuvre their vehicle in front of the siege house where Nikoloff was held up, shooting out at will.

As Terry inched towards Sgt Dawson Nikoloff shot him dead.

Enid, Terry and Brian died.

Nikoloff was jailed for life February 10 1976.

Widow uspet at no council memorial to husband who was shot in Leicester siege 39 years ago

Operation Tiger: Do you recognise any of Leicester's wanted?

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As part of Operation Tiger, the first in a series of 'Tiger Targets' have been issued to the public in a bid to encourage wanted suspects to hand themselves in, as well as asking members of the public to assist in their arrest. Operation Tiger aims to protect communities whilst reducing crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. If you have any information on any of these people please contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, which is anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

Operation Tiger: Do you recognise any of Leicester's wanted?

iPhone 6 fans queuing from 9am this morning for tomorrow's release

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Apple fans have been queuing up since 9am this morning to get their hands on the new iPhone 6 - and hundreds more are expected to join them throughout the night.

More than a dozen tech-heads will sit through the night outside Leicester's Highcross shopping centre to make sure they are one of the first to buy the new model - which costs around £600.

Ronak Karia and his girlfriend, Shanice Heggs, were front of the ever-growing queue.

"I'm an iPhone enthusiast," said 20-year-old Ronak, of Thurmaston.

"The only reason I got here so early is so I could be the first to get the phone.

"I'm proud to say I was first of the queue."

The pair had come well prepared, with energy drinks at hand and a game of Monopoly to keep them occupied.

Shanice, 21, of Belgrave, said: "It's amazing to be at the front of the queue.

"I've been off shopping, so I'm not going too crazy just yet.

"I think it's a really good experience and a great tale to tell."

Their friend, Sham Patel, 19, of Thurmaston had joined the duo.

He said: "I've been doing this for the past four years now.

"I do it because iPhones are 10 times better than any other phone."

Brian Wang, 24, of Leicester city centre, saw the group queuing, before buying himself a chair from Argos so he could join them.

He said: "People think I'm crazy.

"It's exciting and quite amazing to think I'll be one of the first in Leicester to get the new iPhone."

Best friends Mich Rehawakaarachchie and Joe Weston, have also set up camp for the night.

Mich, 18, of Hamilton, said: "If you don't queue, you won't get it tomorrow - simple.

"I'm desperate."

Joe, 18, of North Evington added: "It's part of the excitement, queuing up for the phone."

Marketing Manager at Highcross, Gurvinder Rupra, said: "In the past we've had up to 300 or so people queuing up.

"We don't expect any trouble though, usually they're a nice bunch."

Other iPhone fans were more prepared and have pre-ordered the phone.

Reece Palmer, 17, of Netherhall, will be getting his delivered to his house tomorrow.

"I'm making my grandma stay in all day and wait for it to come," he said.

"I'm so excited, it looks really good."

Highcross will be opening at the earlier time of around 6am tomorrow morning, especially for the iPhone release.

The Apple store, which is situated on the ground floor of the shopping centre, will open at 7am.

If you're queuing up for the iPhone tonight, send us a selfie on Twitter: @Leicester_merc

iPhone 6 fans queuing from 9am this morning for tomorrow's release

Check out the new mobile phone version of Leicestermercury.co.uk

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Reading your Leicester Mercury in a rush? Or just prefer to browse the news with a smartphone? Well, we've got good news for you...

We've launched a new version of leicestermercury.co.uk just for mobile phones - and you'll automatically be redirected when you log on from your phone.

Whether you're an Apple or Android fan, you don't need us to know that usage of mobiles is increasing fast with an increasingly large number of visits to leicestermercury.co.uk now coming through handheld devices.

We've listened to your demands and we want our mobile readers to have the best possible experience when browsing the Leicester Mercury website on smaller screens.

That's why we've spent a long time developing and testing our new mobile website. We've made sure the site meets YOUR needs, including:

Easy navigation

Clear page design

Reliable performance

Fast download speed whether WiFi or 3G/4G

Simple sharing to Facebook and Twitter

Everything's been developed with the aim of giving you, our readers, the best user experience when browsing Leicester Mercury content online, whatever smartphone you prefer. Whether it's breaking news, football scores or just checking the weather, it's now all better on mobile!

COMING SOON

As well as this launch, you'll see a lot of improvements to the mobile and desktop website over the coming months based on your feedback - improved page design, faster load speeds and other things but all with desire to give you the best possible web experience.

FEEDBACK

So what do you think? We've tested it endlessly but like all website redesigns, there will be things that don't quite work - that's where you come in!

If you spot any bugs, glitches or things that simply don't work, let us know in the Comments below, chat to us on Facebook, tweet on on @Leicester_Mercury or direct via email newsdesk@leicestermercury.co.uk

As we'll as any problems, we'd love to know what you think in general so we can improve our site. Do you love it? Not love it? What other features would you like to see? Help us to make your site better and we'll move as fast as we can to improve your experience!

Check out the new mobile phone version of Leicestermercury.co.uk

Belgrave Gate businesses say roadworks are causing profit loss

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Business owners say roadworks outside their shops are hitting trade.

Work on water mains under Belgrave Gate, has been going on since late July and is due to finish in October.

But independent business owners in the area say profits are suffering badly because the disruption and noise are discouraging customers.

At a meeting on Wednesday compensation forms were handed out by representative of Severn Trent Water which is carrying out the work.

The meeting at fast food restaurant Chips, was organised to try to resolve the problems that the businesses were facing.

Faisal Iqbal, owner of Chips, said the roadworks were causing many problems.

Faisal said: "This thing popped up and has seriously slashed my takings.

"It has narrowed the pavement and people on day trips have stopped coming in because they want to avoid traffic and road works."

Faisal, who has run the business for three years, said: "The drilling in the morning stops people coming in for breakfast."

Ilyas Ozluk, owner of Cellys Hairstyle International, said: "This year, since the works has started my profits have gone down.

"People think that we are closed because of the safety barriers. So they don't come past and if it is noisy, clients don't come in either.

"My business is not a classic hairdressers. It is not appointments based - it is walk in.

" I can prove it has affected me in my records."

He added that sales were 10 per cent down on last year.

"I am not pleased. It is making me think I should move. Staying here will not make money."

He added that he was grateful that the meeting had been held.

After receiving a compensation form. Ilyas said: "We will take it from here and send the form off."

Castle ward Councillor Lynn Senior was at the meeting.

She said the meeting important to go through the issues raised by the Severn Trent Water.

John Esslemont, customer liaison manger for contractors Laing O'Rourke, was at the meeting.

He said: "This work is all related to the work the council is doing and related to the re-development of the bus station.

"Our works will be completed by the end of October.

"The next step is for all the businesses to fill in these forms and we will assess the claims.

"We have been out and discussed all the issues with the businesses and have worked amicably with them."

Belgrave Gate businesses say roadworks are causing profit loss

Casualty cut free following three-car collision in Newtown Unthank

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The occupant of a car involved in a three-vehicle collision in a village street this evening had to be cut free from the wreckage by firefighters.

Emergency services were called to Desford Lane, in Newtown Unthank, near Desford, at about 6pm.

A fire service spokesman said: "The incident involved three vehicles close to the Botcheston Road junction.

"One person was reported as being trapped inside a car and was cut free by crews.

"The male casualty was treated at the roadside by ambulance staff and has been taken to the University Hospital of Coventry at Walsgrave."

The B5380 Desford Lane was closed at the Botcheston Road junction, with queuing traffic also affecting Botcheston Road between Desford Road and Main Street. It was reopened shortly after 8pm.

The fire service could not provide details of the casualty's injuries.

The police declined to comment.

Casualty cut free following three-car collision in Newtown Unthank

Leicester City defender Liam Moore warns Manchester United they won't have it easy

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Liam Moore has warned Manchester United's superstars not to expect to have things all their own way when they come to the King Power Stadium on Sunday.

Louis van Gaal has spent more than £150million transforming his squad, with the likes of Radamel Falcao and Angel Di Maria arriving at the club.

Van Gaal's new-look United easily dispatched QPR 4-0 last weekend.

But Moore said if United come to take on Leicester City and think they will have another easy afternoon, they will be in for a rude awakening.

City have so far held Everton and Arsenal, two sides who finished above United in the Premier League last season, to draws on home soil.

Moore said City will be really up for Sunday's encounter with United.

"We will be in for a hard game but I hope United realise they are in for a hard time too," he said. 

"They can't come down to the King Power Stadium thinking they will run the show.

"Everton and Arsenal have found that out. If they do, then more fool them because we are going to give them a right good go.

"They are a dominant force going forward and, if you add up the value of their team compared to ours, it would probably be a massive difference, but it is not all about that.

"Football has a lot of different aspects, and heart and desire are main factors. 

"I feel the squad we have, with the players from the Championship and the players we have added to that, will cause the high-priced Manchester United players a big problem."

City have already faced some talented strikers in Romelu Lukaku and Diego Costa so far this season, but Moore admits they could be in for a bigger test on Sunday against Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie, Di Maria and Falcao.

However, while he is aware of their obvious talents, the 21-year-old from Loughborough is not intimidated.

"We have to use our brain as well as put the effort in," said Moore. 

"You have to be clever with these top-class players but, as well as that, it is not just about what they do. 

"You have to be aware of what they are capable of. A lot of teams can be guilty of sitting off and worrying about what the better teams are capable of.

"We are a confident side and we are looking at how we are going to hurt them.

"We are not going for a draw, we are going out there for all three."

Leicester City defender Liam Moore warns Manchester United they won't have it easy


Mattioli Woods' property arm Custodian Reit looks to raise more funds to expand portfolio

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A property firm says it plans to raise more cash from investors to fund more purchases.

Custodian Reit, of Enderby, has now invested a total of £48.4 million since it floated on the London Stock Exchange in March.

The company is managed by Custodian Capital, a subsidiary of wealth management and pensions group Mattioli Woods.

Richard Shepherd-Cross, managing director of Custodian Capital, said: "Any new funds raised from the equity issue will allow Custodian Reit to take advantage of a pipeline of opportunities to grow its diverse property portfolio. As always, we are focused on delivering an attractive level of income together with the potential for capital growth from a balanced portfolio of real estate assets".

Ian Mattioli, chief executive of the Mattioli Woods Group, based in Grove Park, Enderby, and non-executive director of Custodian Reit, said: "The intention to issue equity marks the next phase of development for the business. It is clear that the market has real confidence in our property investment proposition and we are expecting strong demand from new and existing investors."

Mattioli Woods' property arm Custodian Reit looks to raise more funds to expand portfolio

Esteban Cambiasso ready to start his first game, says Nigel Pearson ahead of Manchester United clash

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Nigel Pearson has said Esteban Cambiasso is ready to start his first game for Leicester City.

The Argentinian midfielder made his debut as a half-time substitute at Stoke last week and played an influential role as City claimed their first victory of the season.

Cambiasso has had a big impact already on his City team-mates and, with the international stars of Manchester United arriving at the King Power Stadium on Sunday, Pearson could turn to the Argentian's experience.

"Yes, there is a possibility Esteban could start, but he signed in a period of time where he has not had a lot of exposure of playing with the team," said Pearson.

"Forty five minutes was the right introduction and there is no doubting he had a very positive influence.

"I know the players were excited by his arrival and he has had a very positive affect on the group.

"Esteban has come into the squad and he has a lot of humility about him.

"With the career he has had, it is good for us that he still has that desire and thirst to play. He is a good example.

"Last week he showed what he is capable of in terms of being able to affect a game. Altogether that is good for us.

"His presence around the players is important anyway. There is always a balance to be struck between know-how and legs, being able to manage the game on a physical level. We know how athletic the game is these days.

"But I brought him in to be a competitive member of the squad and I fully expect that to be the case."

Kasper Schmeichel and Matty James are both available again after injury, so City will only have Matt Upson (foot) and Zoumana Bakayogo (knee) out injured, while Nick Powell is ineligible as he is on loan from United.

"It is great to have lots of players to choose from," said Pearson.

"It is a better position to be in than to have sections issues dictated by players who aren't available.

"I would rather have decisions to make and a number of players who aren't happy because they are not involved. That is always a better situation to be in.

"I am not here to be the players' friend. I am here to be the manager of the football club and it is my job to make decisions on what I feel is the best side to take on whoever we are playing."

Esteban Cambiasso ready to start his first game, says Nigel Pearson ahead of Manchester United clash

Leicestershire duo Matthew Boyce and Ollie Freckingham sign new contracts

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Leicestershire duo Matthew Boyce and Ollie Freckingham have agreed contract extensions at the club, while Neil Pinner and Zak Chappell will join the playing staff at Grace Road.

Batsman Boyce has signed a one-year extension to keep him at Grace Road until at least the end of the 2015 season.

Boyce, who came through the Leicestershire age groups and academy system, is closing in on 7,000 runs for the club in all competitions.

His 4,622 first-class runs have come at an average of 28.35, while Boyce has also amassed 1,429 List A runs at 26.29 and 675 T20 runs at 22.50.

Boyce captained Leicestershire Seconds to an unprecedented treble this summer, winning the T20, Trophy and Championship titles.

Paceman Freckingham also came through the ranks at Leicestershire and has signed a similar extension.

The seamer was already contracted for next season, so will remain at the club until at least the end of the 2016 campaign.

Freckingham has had tremendous bad luck with injuries and illness this year, but was County's bowler of the year in 2013 and will be back stronger for his experiences.

The 25-year-old has claimed 44 first-class wickets for the club in 18 appearances.

Middle-order batsman Pinner was prolific for the Seconds in the early part of the summer before being struck by the ball at the non-striker's end during a Second XI Championship match in May.

That led to a broken arm, but Pinner has worked hard to make a comeback.

The batsman top-scored in the Second XI Trophy final against Lancashire with an excellent 76 from just 59 balls, and also made a superb 79 to help Leicestershire get a vital first-innings lead in the Second XI Championship final at Essex.

The 23-year-old, who has signed a one-year contract at Grace Road, made 30 appearances for Worcestershire in first-class and List A games, scoring 624 runs in the process.

Chappell, who has been a part of Leicestershire's academy intake this year, is a tall, quick seamer who strikes the ball cleanly.

The teenager recently left Stamford School and was prolific with bat and ball during his time at Stamford Town.

Chappell played for Market Harborough this year and is one to look out for in the future. He has signed a two-year contract with Leicestershire.

The quartet will be on the Leicestershire playing staff alongside Angus Robson, Jigar Naik, Rob Taylor, Ben Raine, Tom Wells, James Sykes, Atif Sheikh, Lewis Hill and Rob Sayer, who all agreed new contracts earlier this summer.

Niall O'Brien, Dan Redfern and Alex Wyatt are also contracted at the club for next season.

Leicestershire duo Matthew Boyce and Ollie Freckingham sign new contracts

New SoundCafe for the homeless in Leicester

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The Church of England is opening a new cafe for the homeless and vulnerable.

SoundCafe will be launched on October 1 by Bishop Tim Stevens, who also founded the Leicester Poverty Commission.

The aim of cafe, at the diocese centre St Martin's House, is to provide a "safe, creative space" for vulnerable people.

SoundCafe will meet in The Great Hall at the centre between 1.30pm and 3.30pm every Wednesday.

There will be a chance for local artists to perform as well as an opportunity for people to join in with singing sessions led by professional choir leader Helen Hayes, who is the Pioneer Priest for the Homeless in Leicester.

She said: "I am so excited about leading a choir with people who are homeless.

"My experience shows that people who come together in community choirs find enormous benefits both physical and emotional that helps them to continue with their struggles in everyday life."

New SoundCafe for the homeless in Leicester

Loughborough University leaps to 13th in The Times Good University Guide

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Loughborough University has risen to 13th place out of 121 UK universities in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2015.

The university was also shortlisted for the coveted title of University of the Year 2014-15, which recognises all-round excellence. It was awarded the honour in 2008.

The guide, published in this Sunday's (21 September) newspaper, ranks universities on eight key criteria – student satisfaction, research quality, graduate prospects, entrance qualifications, degree results achieved, student/staff ratios, services and facilities spend, and drop-out rates.

Loughborough has risen eight places this year.

The university's vice chancellor, Professor Robert Allison, said he was " delighted" by the latest results, adding that it reflected Loughborough's commitment and dedication. Of particular importance, he said was the coordinated approach taken by the university and Loughborough Students' Union.

"We have a very significant common interest – to provide the best experience for our students.

"The close working relationship that the university and Students' Union gives Loughborough an exceptional cohesiveness that really benefits our students. We want to provide opportunities for every one of them to be the very best they can be, which ultimately contributes to the success of the university."

Rob Whittaker, president of Loughborough Students' Union, said: "We're very open in our communication with each other. The vice chancellor is regularly out and about on campus, talking to students to find out about what they like and how they think Loughborough could develop. Staff are very accessible and are always keen to engage the student population in discussions about how to enhance the university experience."

The University of Leicester is ranked 20th, down six places from 14th this time last year.

As well as being known for the discovery of King Richard III, buried beneath a city centre care park, its undergraduate population is the most socially diverse of any university in the top 20 with nearly nine out of 10 coming from state schools.

A spokesperson for the University of Leicester said: "It's been a tremendous year for Leicester having also won the highest honour available in the UK university system - the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education. 

"As the Sunday Times acknowledges, the discovery of King Richard III by our archaeologists and subsequent identification by a multidisciplinary team at Leicester has raised our global profile and this discovery will have a tremendous impact on the local economy. We're also proud to be recognised as being among the most inclusive of the leading universities in Britain."

De Montfort University has risen a staggering 32 places this year to 54th in the league table thanks in part to its graduate employability.

Some 69.1 per cent of graduates are in professional jobs or postgraduate study within six months of leaving, compared to just 53 per cent previously.

The university is also investing £136 million to transform its campus in the coming years.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dominic Shellard said: "This has been a remarkable year for DMU and this climb up the league tables reflects the great strides our university has made as a result of the incredible work and ongoing pursuit of excellence by our students and staff.

"Our exceptional employability initiatives, transformational student experience and quality courses make DMU a hugely rewarding place for current students to study and a compelling choice for potential students too.

"But we have never been a university to rest on its laurels and, as our successful national TV advert says, DMU is not about surrendering to convention.

"DMU is about learning to succeed. We will continue to innovate and create and ensure our students have every opportunity to excel."

Loughborough University leaps to 13th in The Times Good University Guide

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