Police investigating the theft of perfume from a pharmacy have released these CCTV images of a man they would like to speak in connection with the incident.

They would like to identify the man pictured following the crime, in Ashby town centre.

It happened at the Dean and Smedley pharmacy, in Market Street, at about 5.15pm, on September 2.

PCSO Dale Winson said: "We are asking members of the public to look at the images and if they recognise this man, to please get in touch with the police."

Anyone with information should call the police 101 line.

The debate over the use of technology in football is not a new one. In fact, it seems the debate has been raging for more than a decade, but with little action besides extra officials in some competitions and a bit of spray foam. 

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has re-ignited the discussion by suggesting he was ready to change his view on the subject and push forward with plans to offer video technology to officials and allow managers a review system on major disputed moments in game. 

The motives for Blatter's change of heart after being resistant to the use of technology for so long is open to debate. 

But while it is fair to say Blatter's public statements haven't carried much weight in this country before, a move towards a more open approach to the use of technology would be generally welcomed across the game. 

Certainly Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson has been a long-time advocate of technology being more widely utilised and, while he is reticent to comment too much on Blatter's proposals, he would welcome a wider use of technology. 

As Pearson points out, the use of technology is prevalent throughout the game already, in terms of how teams prepare for and dissect games. 

Players are monitored by GPS systems in training and the results analysed in-depth by sports scientists, while players are given detailed individual video analysis to study their own performances, as well as future opponents. 

Television technology has developed to the extent where fans watching at home can see dozens of different angles of each individual incident in a game and form their own opinions. 

To Pearson, it seems ludicrous the officials are not being given the same opportunity. 

"I haven't really listened to what Sepp Blatter said and I'm not really interested in what he says, but we should be using technology," he recently said. "It should be maximised. 

"I think it has been a huge improvement in lots of other sports. The amount of times it takes more than a few seconds to check a technical issue is minimal and won't affect the flow of the game at all. 

"It is there. You can have a fourth official or a fifth official with a laptop, no problem. 

"I really don't know why football is reluctant to embrace technology, because we use it all the time in preparation and to debrief games. 

"The players, coaches and managers are used to using it. It is also used for disciplinary reasons, so why is it not used in live situations to help manage the game? 

"I feel our officials don't have the support they should do. 

"Years ago, when TV was not as advanced, there wasn't the technology to get all the different angles you can now see. Now it is readily available to review situations in games. 

"It goes without saying the officials are under an awful lot more scrutiny. 

"They will see things in real time and we will all make mistakes in real time, because it is a very dynamic game. It is not a set-play game.

"It would make sense for the game to give added help to the officials and it would diffuse so many speculative arguments. 

"I am not a decision-maker who makes policy, but I have my opinions on it and have done for a long time." 

Pearson has certainly seen the benefits of technology for himself, even though the authorities soon put a stop to it. 

"We had a system when I was at Newcastle where we had technology in the dug-outs and it was quite embarrassing for the officials that we had two monitors, one real time and the other with a delay in the dug-out, and we could see what was happening," he said.

"The authorities ended up stopping teams having that technology, rather than giving those who work in those areas the tools to help the referee. 

"Let's utilise technology to improve the game."

Jordan Crane said a tight-knit Leicester Tigers squad will not let 'flying bullets' get to them as they prepare to bounce back from the 45-0 defeat at Bath by hosting London Irish on Saturday.

Tigers' heaviest-ever defeat by their old enemy led to a string of inevitable criticism from pundits, commentators and some supporters in the immediate aftermath.

Although No.8 Crane said he was as disappointed as anyone by the scoreline, he maintained the players and coaches would stay close together, improve their deficiencies and come out fighting against the Exiles.

"We have to all pull together now," said Crane. "That means the guys in the changing room and the guys at Oval Park too.

"You do not become a rubbish set-up overnight from one bad performance.

"We will pull together, address it and carry on. It's a tight-knit group and a tight-knit place, and we don't let outside influences get to us. 

"There will be a lot doubters and a lot of bullets flying about. That's sport. One day, we are 10 per cent off where we need to be, they get a few bounces of the ball and we lose 45-0. It looks horrendous.

"But it's not like that. We could turn up this week, play well and we are brilliant again.

"It may look like there are big issues but we are not worrying or pressing any panic buttons. It's about re-grouping now.

"It's a tough one to take with Bath being big rivals, but it is just another game."

Crane believes the loss of "great players" like Manu Tuilagi and Ant Allen on the day of the game did not help an already long injury list at the club.

He said the rest of the squad will all have to step up and make amends for the loss when London Irish arrive at Welford Road on Saturday.

"It wasn't that the lads didn't want to put the effort in," he said.

"Bath was just one of those games. It's a one-off. We will re-group and come back this week.

"Leicester is all about hard work. You take it on the chin and carry on. The title was not decided last weekend.

"It's a good wake-up call and a learning tool for everyone involved. We have to iron out what went wrong and address it.

"Luckily, games are coming thick and fast at this stage of the season and we get an opportunity to address things every week. We will be doing that against London Irish."

Despite conceding five tries, Crane deflected any criticism away from new defence coach Phil Blake, who has only been with the squad for a couple of weeks since flying in from Australia.

"Phil has been a breath of fresh air and has done a really good job," said Crane.

"We slipped off too many tackles at Bath and you can't do that at this level. 

"That's not down to any defensive system. We just got caught short at Bath.

"The more we practice it, the better we will be."

Leicester City are expected to have a clean bill of health ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace. 

After Sunday's gruelling but exhilarating victory over Manchester United, City spent yesterday checking the condition of the squad after a day off to recover on Monday. 

Striker Jamie Vardy was a concern after being forced off against United with severe cramp. 

But assistant manager Craig Shakespeare said he was not expecting there to be any lasting damage to Vardy, who was one of City's key men against United. 

Vardy has received considerable praise in the national media for his performance against United and Shakespeare said he deserved his plaudits, but must now focus on repeating that showing on a regular basis. 

"There will be some aches and bruises, and some fatigue, but we are confident we will have a clean bill of health going into Saturday," said Shakespeare.

"I am really pleased for Jamie because he has had a stop-start season so far because of the thigh injury.

"It was his first Premier League start and it is important for any player to get that first game under their belt. They want to make that impact as soon as possible.

"He has had a few niggles since pre-season so he was probably on a bit of a downer then.

"It was a great performance against a very good side in Manchester United, but now we want to see that consistency every week."

Shakespeare admitted when City paid Fleetwood Town £1million for Vardy just over two years ago that some people doubted their judgement but Shakespeare said Vardy's progress has not come as any surprise to the staff at City.

"To perform in the way he did hasn't surprised any of his team-mates or the staff," he added.

"You have to remember scouting and recruitment on him. It was very in depth on him because we had the time to do it. 

"We still had people ring us when we paid £1 million saying there is a question mark, but we always thought he had the capabilities to play in whatever league.

"When you look at his attributes we think they are great attributes to have.

"He just has to focus on performing to his best every week now."

Tory South Leicestershire MP Andrew Robathan has said it is time to give a younger candidate a chance after announcing he will not defend his seat in May's General election.

Last night the 63-year-old Conservative, who was first elected in 1992, announced he would not be standing for re-election despite having been re-selected in what is largely thought to be a safe seat.

His surprise announcement follows his departure from his Northern Ireland minister's post in July's Government reshuffle when he said hehad said he would seek a sixth term.

Mr Robathan told the Mercury: "It has been a major part of my working life and I will miss representing my constituents.

"I will also miss knowing what is going on in the political world.

"If I stayed on I could be hanging on in at nearly 69 giving the world my pearls of wisdom.

He added: "While I have enjoyed being an MP, inevitably one loses one's enthusiasm, zeal and energy after a time.

"I have a good run in politics. I have been a minister of state, I was deputy chief whip for four-and-a-half years.

"I want to find other things to do. I have made the decision but it might be slightly earlier than I may have wished."

Mr Robathan, who would have been defending a 15,500 majority from the 2010 election, added: "I was not concerned a bit about my own seat and I absolutely believe the Conservatives can win the next election - God willing.

"Labour are ahead in the polls at the moment and there is always the UKIP question but when it comes to the crunch I think people will look at the alternatives and say David Cameron and the Conservatives have done pretty well with the economy."

Mr Robathan said it was time to let a younger person take over but said: "I have no idea who my successor will be.

"I will not be offering an opinion on that."

Mr Robathan said he would continue to live in Leicestershire and that he was not sure what he would do next in his career.

He told the Mercury: "I might be able to offer my political experience to an outside company, I don't know. I travel optimistically."

The South Leicestershire Conservative Association now has to choose a candidate to defend the seat in May.

Association chairman Peter Fuchs said: "We hope to have a solution by the end of the year."

Mr Fuchs said nobody had so far contacted him to register an interest in becoming a candidate.

He said Mr Robathan had told him last week of his intention to step down.

He said: "We had a discussion and it was clear it was a very personal thing to suddenly give up what he has been doing for some 25 years.

"I have known Andrew since he was first selected and 25 years is a long time to do anything.

"He has been a very good constituency MP.

"His integrity is 100 per cent and we are very sorry he is going to retire."

Mr Fuchs said: "There is a selection process. It may be a local person or it may be someone from outside the area.

"Who ever it is we will not be assuming it is a safe seat. AS soon as you start doing that you have potential problems."

Labour prospective parliamentary candidate for South Leicestershire Amanda Hack said: "I am quite surprised he has made this decision with just eight months until the election.

"I spoke to Andrew a few weeks ago and he was still going to stand.

"Whoever the Tories choose to put up, my campaign will be my campaign and will focus on getting the best for the people of South Leicestershire." 

More than 30 producers will be taking part in the ninth annual Good Food Fair this weekend.

The event at Belgrave Hall and Gardens will feature a mouth-watering host of herbal teas, homemade cakes, gourmet coffee and organic meats, as well as other treats.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the event, which will also be a chance for visitors have a look around the early 18th century Grade II* listed building.

A first at this year's food fair will be genuine smoked meat served by The Smokehouse, a new restaurant based at the O Bar in Braunstone Gate, Leicester.

Chef Liam Watson said: "It's going to be our first time at the food fair and we'll be taking along some of our brisket and pulled pork.

"Both are smoked overnight to do them properly.

"We'll be the only people there serving this sort of thing and while a lot of people have heard about pulled pork and eaten things called pulled pork, not many people have tried it done properly like this."

Other businesses taking part will include Brocklebys, Greyfriars Fine Foods, Mirch Masala, Riverford Organic Farms, Raw'n'Pure and Lyncroft Handmade Cakes.

There will also be specialist fudge, cider, cupcakes, ice cream, olive oil, beer and pizza, as well as established Leicestershire food companies such as Walker & Son.

As well as a wide range of tasty hot and cold treats from dozens of local food and drink producers, the day will feature talks and cookery demonstrations by producers including Liam.

Now in its ninth year, the fair takes place from 11am to 4pm on Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, September 28.

The event is part of British Food Fortnight, a celebration of the diverse range of food Britain produces.

Councillor Piara Singh Clair, the assistant city mayor responsible for culture, leisure and sport, said he was looking forward to the event.

He said: "This is always a very popular event – last year it attracted almost 2,000 visitors.

"It's a great way for people to find out more about the diverse range of quality food and drink we produce locally and support local suppliers.

"It's also a chance for people to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Belgrave Hall and Gardens, which are the perfect backdrop for this event."

Admission to the fair is £2.50 for adults. Under-16s are free.

For more information, visit www.leicester.gov.ukfoodfair

Teenager Calum Mayes was left feeling all regal when Prince Harry knelt before him.

The 16-year-old, who had his leg amputated last year, met the Prince when he received a national award for his courage in London.

Calum's positive attitude and bravery since have won him the award in the category for inspirational young men aged more than 16 years at the WellChild awards, of which Prince Harry is a patron.

Calum, from Aylestone, Leicester, said: "It was brilliant.

"Prince Harry is a really nice man.

"When he met me he told me not to get up as I was sitting down. He then got on his knees and started talking to me.

"We had a chat for about ten minutes. He asked me about my prosthetic leg and how I was getting on with it.

"He asked me which team I supported and I told him Liverpool. He was really down-to-earth."

Prince Harry said: "I would like to congratulate each of the award winners - your stories are moving beyond words and remind us all of just how fantastic you all are.

"You are an example to us all - we can learn a great deal from your strength of character, resolve and humour in facing down challenges every day."

South Leicestershire College student Calum was at the star-studded ceremony with his dad Russ, mum Tracey and sisters Caitilin (CORRECT) 12 and four-year-old Caera. (CORRECT)

Russ, 44, said: "It was just amazing.

"Prince Harry is such a genuine and caring young man.

"When he got down on his knees to my son I could not believe my eyes.

"He knew Calum had a prosthetic leg so he immediately told him not to get up from his chair.

"Prince Harry has obviously inherited his caring nature from his mother Princess Diana."

Other celebrities who attended included TV presenter Gaby Roslin, 'Dragons Den' boss Duncan Bannatyne, former world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, comedian Russell Howard and former Olympic swimmer Mark Foster.

Six-year-old Maddison Sherwood, from East Leake, won the inspirational child award for girls aged between three and six.

The youngster has a muscle-wasting disease, spinal muscular atrophy and respiratory problems.

She has repeatedly defied doctors' predictions she would never talk, eat on her own or even support her own head.

The bright girl, who attends mainstream school thanks to daily physiotherapy and a tracheotomy for breathing difficulties, talks and shuffles on her bottom – and has not let her health condition get her down.

Mum Lydia, said: "She is such a positive little thing and so laid back. She takes everything in her stride." 

More than 400 people took part in a charity walk to raise money for a Leicester hospice.

LOROS' annual sponsored called Walk on the Wildside took place earlier this month and raised more than £20,000 through sponsorship. It started and finished at Severn Trent Water's visitor centre in Cropston.

The Mayor of Charnwood officially opened the walk together with Leicester City's Filbert Fox.

This year there were three routes to choose from – a five mile, an 11 mile walk and there was also a new toddler trail.

Most walkers were carrying out the walk in memory of loved ones.

There was also stalls, children's activities, as well as a variety of food outlets.

Christian Weikert-Picker, LOROS fundraiser said, "The support that has been shown for the event is amazing.

"We had more sign-ups on the day this year than ever and it is fantastic to see so many people coming along, keeping fit and supporting the hospice.

"The conditions were ideal for walking – not too hot and not too cold. There were smiles from all participants in particular from those taking part in the new toddler trail, finding clues and exploring nature, it was a great family day.

"We are looking at a pledge of over £20,000 through sponsorship, which will make a huge difference to the running of the hospice.

"This is one of our major fundraising events in the calendar – well done to everyone who took part and helped make the day such a huge success."

X Factor winner Sam Bailey has shown the world the first picture of her baby daughter.

Sam, from Leicester Forest East, has tweeted a photograph of her holding 15-day-old Miley Beau.

The 37-year-old, who has 360,000 followers on Twitter, tweeted: "HERE YA GO GUYS! Hello mag out tomorrow xx"

Sam announced the name of her baby girl, her third child with husband Craig, in an interview with Hello magazine.

HERE YA GO GUYS! Hello mag out tomorrow xx pic.twitter.com/WaXXjfun1N

— Sam Bailey Official (@SamBaileyREAL) September 22, 2014

Miley Beau has Sam's X factor mentor Sharon Osbourne as her godmother and teenage X Factor runner-up Nicholas McDonald as godfather.

Both godparents took to twitter to register their delight.

Sharon Osbourne tweeted: "Heaven - @SamBaileyREAL and her beautiful baby Miley Beau Pearson. How blessed am I to be her godmother?"

Nicholas McDonald posted: "This is @SamBaileyREAL beautiful baby girl Miley Beau can't wait to meet my beautiful baby goddaughter."

Actress Cheryl Fergison, who played Heather Trott in Eastenders, also tweeted her congratulations.

She posted: "Congratulations Sam and Family just to think she was a wee bump when we played football at Charlton ground now she's here !"

Sam said she chose the name because she likes it and insists it has nothing to do with controversial singer Miley Cyrus.

Sam and Craig have two other children - daughter Brooke, nine, and five-year-old son Tommy.

Leicester has been ranked the worst in the country when it comes to children's readiness for starting school in a major new education study.

Researchers from University College London's Institute of Health Equity examined Government data on children's performance at age five, together with international league tables examining education throughout childhood.

They discovered that Britain was languishing behind most Western countries when it comes to standards of literacy, numeracy and physical skills.

And Leicester is right at the bottom of the pile – in a league table of English education authority areas.

It found that just 27.7 per cent of those children starting school in the city had reached a "good level of development" – meaning they were able to accomplish tasks such as being able to count to 20.

That compares to 52 per cent of children across England, and 46.3 per cent for Leicestershire.

Professor Sir Michael Marmot, director of the Institute, said poor performance was closely linked to levels of deprivation and the quality of services to support children and parents.

But Leicester City Council's director of learning quality and performance, Margaret Libreri said the report did not accurately reflect the true picture for city youngsters.

She said: "These figures are actually from 2012/13, which was the first year of us using a new assessment system to gauge early years' progress.

"This made the assessment tougher, and involved changes in the criteria being assessed, meaning children had to meet a higher number of targets across the board.

"That new process led to an overly cautious interpretation of five-year-old children's achievements, making their results appear unusually low."

Ms Libreri added: "Children now have to meet a larger range of criteria, which raises the bar and makes it more difficult for them to achieve the same results as previously.

"Between 2009 and 2011, Leicester's five-year-olds were within three to 10 points of the national average, and in 2012 were in line with the national average of 52 per cent."

She added: "We've since reassessed the pupils, this year, and there is every suggestion that their level of achievement is in line with that of the 2012 cohort of pupils.

"Children were assessed at the end of 2013 – and we took a sample and checked one term later. Those results were consistent with pupils in the same period the previous year."

Councillor Vi Dempster, Leicester assistant city mayor for children, young people and schools, said: "We do have significant challenges in the city, such as high levels of deprivation – and that's why we remain committed to a universal children's centre offer across the city to help tackle these challenges."

The top performing area was Greenwich, in south east London, where 69 per cent of children aged five reached their expected level of development.

International data ranked Britain's educational performance as 5th bottom of 29 western countries – worse than Estonia, Slovakia, Lithuania and Poland.

Sir Michael said experts were shocked by the report's findings.

"We continue to fail our children," he said. "How can this still be happening? It is unacceptable that only half of our five-year-olds are achieving a good level of development."

Sir Michael said the quality of parenting, and the amount of time adults spent interacting with children was critical to there development.

He also criticised the closure of Sure Start centres across England in recent years.

The international league tables showed the best performing country was the Netherlands, followed by Belgium and Germany.

A 70-year-old man who was reported missing from Thurmaston has been found safe and well in Leicester city centre.

Mr Jayantilal Visram was reported missing by his family yesterday evening after he failed to return home.

Pc Tanya Lehane, of the Counties Missing From Home team, said: "Mr Visram was found today, just before 4pm, and is thankfully safe and well and with his family."

A 15-year-old girl was taken to hospital after being punched in the face by a yob who was part of a group taunting her.

Police said the victim was approached by a group of up to five men in a grassed area between Wychwood Road and Mawby Close, in Whetstone.

She was subjected to verbal abuse before being punched in the face, causing injuries which needed to be treated in hospital.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to the assault, which happened at about 5pm. Details have only now been released.

One of the suspects is described as being of black or dual heritage in appearance, approximately 17 years of age, around 5ft 9in tall, with short dark hair. He was wearing a red hooded zip-up top with a white zip to the front and white stripes down the arms and also wearing black jeans.

A second man in the group is described as white, also believed to be around 17 years of age, with blonde, shaven hair with a quiff at the front.

He was wearing an orange baseball cap with pink socks over grey tracksuit bottoms.

A third man believed to be of the same age was wearing a purple baseball cap.

Pc Jack Zielinski said: "The victim of this assault has been left shaken and disturbed by what happened.

"We would like to speak to anyone who might have witnessed the incident or know the perpetrators of this attack."

Anyone with information should contact the police by dialling the 101 number.

Campaigners opposing the development of a farmland site on the edge of a market town for housing are arguing their case at a second public inquiry in less than five years.

A three-day inquiry into plans by Hallam Land Management for countryside near Ashby opened today at Whitwick Business Centre, in Stenson Road, in nearby Coalville.

It is looking into the developer's proposals to develop 12-acres of land off Packington Nook Lane, to south of the town.

The hearing follows an appeal by Hallam to the planning inspectorate against North West Leicestershire District Council's refusal of planning permission in January, this year.

The developer wants to build up to 70 homes, however, the planning authority

decided it was an "unsustainable" scheme, outside the limits of development and too "remote from services".

People living in the area believed they had saved the greenfield site from development after then Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, John Denham, 

refused Hallam permission for 1,100 homes in March, 2010, following an earlier inquiry.

They hastily reformed the Packington Nook Residents' Association (PNRA) to fight the latest plans, with 111 letters sent to the council objecting to the latest planning application.

Chairman Nigel Garnham outlined their case at yesterday's hearing, where he re-iterated the council's view that it was an unsustainable scheme in a poor location an added that it would also "harm the character of the town".

He said: "Development of this site will damage countryside that is worthy of preservation for its own sake.

"The appeal site is a rural setting at the clear urban boundary of the town. The landscape is an amenity enjoyed by residents and there is a clear benefit to wildlife."

Mr Garnham said that although this scheme was significantly smaller than that subject to a public inquiry in 2009, the principle was the same, adding that there were much better locations in Ashby to site new housing to meet demand.

He said: "We continue to object to planning permission on any part of the Packington Nook site

"It will fundamentally create a precedent for further building on adjoining fields and gradually add up to the 1,000-plus houses which Hallam Land clearly want, but which were refused following the inquiry in 2009."

The Inspector's report in 2009 stated that the loss of an attractive rural setting would be "significant and unacceptable", giving harm to the landscape and character of the town; undue risk of harm to road safety and the potential of noise pollution from the nearby M42 motorway as additional reasons for refusal.

The planning authority is coming under pressure from housing developers while it is formulating a new development framework to identify land for 10,000 new homes by 2031.

It follows a decision to withdraw its original blueprint, last October, after a planning inspector said it was "unsound".

Hallam is arguing that there is a need for housing in the district, and that the council's current development plan, setting out where houses can be built, is out of date.

In a statement to the inquiry the developer said: "It is our opinion that the town of Ashby is a sustainable settlement that is well provided with a range of services and is suited to accommodating new housing provision.

"These development proposals should be approved without delay."

The inquiry continues.

A festival to celebrate the heritage and history of Leicester's African and Caribbean communities is taking place next month.

Black History Month returns to Leicester in October.

A concert called Three Black Voices is taking place this Saturday to launch the festival.

Bizzi Dizon, a star of BBC talent show The Voice UK, is headlining the launch.

Bizzi said: "I am extremely excited and honoured to be headlining.

"Last week I was at the Ritz and a couple of weeks ago I was at the Savoy, but there is no place like home.

"I am looking forward to headlining the event with a live band.

"It is not only for the black community, but for the whole community to come out and be entertained.

"I am Leicester born and bred and I always try to fly the Leicester flag."

Vocalists who also appeared on the Voice - Iesher Haughton and Femi Santiago - will be performing at the concert on Saturday.

Black History Month is organised by local arts group Serendipity, on behalf of Leicester City Council.

Numerous musical, arts and theatrical events are planned during the month, including Botown, which combines soul and funk with Bollywood music. The Midlands Best Dance Crew, an urban dance competition, is also part of the festival.

Contemporary African art and African textiles will also be on display at Embrace Arts, while Curve will host a performance of Othello.

There will be a series of themed films at the Phoenix digital media centre, and lectures and seminars celebrating black history in the UK and globally at the University of Leicester.

Councillor Piara Singh Clair, assistant city mayor responsible for culture, leisure and sport, said: "I'm delighted to see that once again we have a packed programme of events to mark Black History Month.

"Leicester has benefited immensely from being a culturally diverse city, so it's fitting that we take this chance to celebrate the important cultural contribution our African and African Caribbean communities make locally, nationally and internationally.

"This is a great chance for everyone in Leicester to celebrate the heritage and history of these communities."

Pawlet Brookes, artistic director at Serendipity, said: "It is a privilege to again be organising Black History Month in Leicester.

"It has always been our aim to ensure that the celebration of Black History Month is moved from the margins to the mainstream.

"It is fantastic that Black History Month is now an integral festival in the city, with a diverse programme of events for all to enjoy."

To find out more about Black History Month pick up a leaflet at city museums, libraries and other council buildings, or call 0116 242 2945 or visit: www.visitleicester.info/blackhistorymonth

Traders who met city mayor Sir Peter Soulsby over the future of one of the city's main shopping streets have been left with mixed feelings about the outcome of talks.

Market Street, in Leicester, has suffered through the recession with the departure of Waterstones and Clintons, and other shops, such as Withers and Sony, relocating to other areas.

It has also felt the effect of potential shoppers parking in their hundreds in the Highcross shopping centre, on the other side of the city, and the closure of the city council's headquarters at the end of Market Street.

Last week, a new lingerie shop opened in part of the old Waterstones store and two other companies are in talks to move into the street.

But while things might appear to be looking up for Market Street, traders were still concerned.

On Tuesday (23)Sir Peter and his city centre management team met with traders to discuss their concerns.

John Levy, managing director of nationals hairdressing franchise Toni and Guy, said; "It was a waste of two hours of my day, really.They were just telling us what they were doing and not putting plans forward.

"They were going on about resurfacing which won't bring people back and how they were going to take the council offices down and about bringing down parking prices in the town."

He added: "We are concerned about the standard of shops, we would like to see more high end shops. They felt we were going to be happy with what they had to say.

"We feel disconnected from the town centre, but there was no thought given to how they were going to bring the town centre and Market Street back together.I wouldn't say anything positive came out of the meeting."

Dean Newman, of Newman's coffee shop and restaurant, which has ben in the street for 29 years, said: "It seems like Pater Soulsby and his city management are interested in what happens to Market Street.

"They talked about resurfacing the street and having regular meetings every four to six weeks to see if we can come up with ideas to develop this area.

"There were some landlords at the meeting but they said they wouldn't come down on rents."

He added: "The bus stops are all over the other side of town. Our clientele is older and they have a long way to walk.

"Peter Soulsby said Newarke Street car park is being tidied up to encourage people to use it and parking there and in surrounding streets would be £1 an hour.I did feel better after the meeting."

Sir Peter said:"Market Street was the city's first pedestrianised street and it is one of the best shopping streets in the city.

"What the council can do is create an environment where people want to invest and shoppers want to come and do business. What we can't do is wave a magic wand to bring particular retailers into the area.

"Work we are currently doing in Hotel Street links them to the successful trading area in The Lanes."

Football fans are being given the chance to chew the cud with England and Leicester City legend Gary Lineker.

The 53-year-old is auctioning off a meal out with him in aid of 'Skyballs' - the Male Cancer Awareness Campaign.

The meal, which is for 10 people, is for a date at Bird of Smithfield, in London.

Match of the Day presenter Gary tweeted: "This is for a smashing cause. If you feel ballsy enough to bid it would be marvellous. Thanks. #SKYBALLS."

This is not the first time Gary has been the subject of an evening's entertainment.

In 1991 a play called 'An Evening with Gary Lineker', by Arthur Smith and Chris England, hit the stage.

The action takes place against the backdrop of the 1990 Football World Cup semi-final, between England and West Germany, which is taking place in Italy while Monica and Bill are on holiday in Ibiza. Bill desperately wants to watch the match while Monica wants to talk about their relationship.

The play was nominated for an Olivier Award. Gary made a cameo appearance in a 1994 adaptation for TV.

Meanwhile celebrities have come out in support of Gary after claims he will be warned about his bad language on Twitter.

He tweeted a number of foul-mouthed posts when he was watching the Foxes beat Manchester United on Sunday.

Gary said: "Bl**** hell" and "F******* hell", followed by "S*** on Man Utd".

Former tabloid editor and TV presenter Piers Morgan posted: "The ironic thing about this @GaryLineker swearing 'scandal' is that he is noticeably devoid of foul language when you socialise with him."

Comedian and Hollywood film star Ricky Gervais joked: "That @GaryLineker swearing made me take heroin and throw stones at police and stuff. I wanted to be a nurse but not anymore. Now I'm in a gang."

Former Foxes striker and radio pundit Stan Collymore tweeted: "And that Sir, is why I love you @GaryLineker ."

Comedian and TV presenter Dara Ó Briain posted: "Gary Lineker just for the record, I swore quite loudly when I saw the Leicester score, and I was at Legoland at the time."

The Daily Telegraph had reported Gary would be spoken to by the BBC about his tweets.

In response, an unapologetic Gary tweeted: "Dear papers, if I can't swear when Leicester come from 2 goals down to beat Man Utd 5-3 then I never can. Thanks though for your concern."

He also posted: "At no time have the BBC warned me about any of my tweets. One of the joys of Twitter is correcting false stories."

To bid for the meal, click here.

Financial advisor Peter Jellett had just finished supper and settled down to watch the television news with his wife when his heart stopped beating.

He had to be brought back to life six times and has no memory of the week before or after the attack in which he nearly died.

The 67-year-old has now had a special device fitted which is wired into his heart and which will shock it back into action if it stops again.

He has made a full recovery and this week met up with the paramedics who saved his life.

Mr Jellett, from Wigston, said: "I wanted to meet then and say thank you.

"I have seven grandchildren, aged from one to seven, and thanks to the paramedics and staff at Glenfield Hospital I have been given me a second chance and the chance of seeing them grow up.

"Thank you will never be enough but I hope they understand the huge impact they have had on my life."

Mr Jellett returned from work on April 25 when, without warning he stopped breathing as he had a cardiac arrest.

His wife Eileen, a retired district nurse, said: "I was talking to Peter and realised he hadn't replied.

"When I turned to him he was slumped in his chair unconscious and not breathing.

"I was so scared and dialled 999. I was told to get Peter on to the floor but he is a big man and I am only 5ft and I had to run to neighbours to get help."

First on the scene was East Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic Georgina Pickering and her student paramedic Megan Owen who took over CPR and started defibrillation.

She said: "Peter was really poorly when we got to him.

"We recognised that he was in cardiac arrest and after shocking him six times we were able to get his heart to beat again.

"Once he was in a stable position we worked hard to get him into the ambulance."

Ms Pickering added: "I remember how poorly Peter looked when I arrived at his house and when we got him to the hospital he was still unconscious.

"It was very humbling to meet up with again and to see he has made a full recovery.""

A total of eight paramedics were needed to help get Mr Jellett into the ambulance.

He was taken to Leicester Royal Infirmary and transferred to Glenfield Hospital.

Mr Jellett said: "I can't remember anything from the week before the cardiac arrest or for more than a week afterwards.

"I now have this ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator) fitted which will shock my heart if it stops, which it hasn't yet.

"There had been no warning but doctors think it might be genetic as my grandfather was walking along when he dropped dead in his 50s.

"My three children have been checked and cleared which is wonderful."

Mr Jellett has decided to retire and is now enjoying walking.

A joyrider lost control of a stolen Mercedes on a bend and careered through a hedge, before rolling it over in a field, a court heard.

Josh Tony David Billington, 19, was behind the wheel of the vehicle within hours of the ignition keys being taken in an a house burglary.

Leicester Crown Court was told that soon afterwards a couple asleep in bed, on Redlands Estate, Ibstock, were awoken by the sound of a "crack and a bang," at 6am, on August 10.

The householder, who lived near a sweeping bend, guessed a car had come off the road.

He looked out of his window to see the driver in a nearby field getting out of the damaged silver Mercedes 110 CDI and then getting into a second vehicle.

Alan Murphy, prosecuting, said: "The second car was described as a typical boy racer's car and appeared to have been in a convoy.

"The defendant got into the passenger seat of that car and was driven away towards Ellistown."

Mr Murphy said the Mercedes was stolen sometime after 10.45pm, on August 9, from outside a house in Swannington village, North West Leicestershire..

Mr Murphy said the first the car owners knew about the overnight break-in was when the police called round to inform them at 6.30am that their £15,000 motor had been found crashed and abandoned.

Billington, of Swannington Road, Coalville, admitted aggravated vehicle taking of the Mercedes when, owing to the nature of the driving, an accident occurred.

He was sentenced to 12 months detention.

Judge Simon Hammond said: "He failed to negotiate a bend, where there have been a number of previous accidents, and crashed through a hedge, rolling the vehicle in a field.

"It is, in all probability, a write-off.

"It was driven by this defendant within hours of the burglary having taken place and, having crashed it, he was driven away.

"His fingerprint was found on the driver's rear view mirror and there was a partial DNA match on gloves left in the car.

"It mustn't be underestimated the upset caused when cars are stolen and crashed.

"There's increasing public concern about keys and cars being taken.

"This was a high value vehicle."

Clementine James, mitigating, said Billington played no part in the burglary or theft of the Mercedes.

She said he was at his girlfriend's home that evening and, following an argument, he left in the early hours of the morning.

Miss James said: "He was walking along the road when he happened to see the car door was slightly open and the keys were inside.

"The offence wasn't planned.

"He didn't get very far because he crashed it five miles away, as he wasn't familiar with such a powerful car.

"He's ashamed of what he did and not only regrets his actions but is sorry for the effect upon the owners of the vehicle.

"He's had previous problems with drugs, in particular M-Cat, but is now drug-free.

"He hopes to do his time, turn over a new leaf and get a job."

The court heard that Billington has 29 offences on his criminal record, including three burglaries, one of taking a vehicle without consent, two thefts from a house, one theft from a vehicle, assault and breaching court orders.

On March 19 this year he was jailed for 17 weeks for a theft offence.

Pupils from four Leicestershire schools are rehearsing for a performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London.

More than 60 students from the city and county will be singing at an event on Sunday to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War.

They will be joining 600 singers from Europe including Belgium, France and Germany.

Richard Dacey, head of performing arts at Guthlaxton College, in Wigston, has organised for the Leicestershire schools to take part in the event.

As well as students from Guthlaxton, pupils from Bushloe High School, in Wigston Magna, Abington Academy, in Wigston and English Martyrs, in Anstey Lane will be taking part.

Mr Dacey said: "We are really excited to be involved. It is an great opportunity for the schools.

"It's an exciting project that we have been working on since February."

This is a massive project bringing together more than 600 pupils, aged 12 to 18, from schools across the UK and Europe who will perform an hour-long piece about war called The Armed Man - A Mass for Peace by Karl Jenkins. The piece has 13 movements to it combining poetry and parts of the Mass. It also includes the Muslim call to prayer.

The pupils have been rehearsing once a week since February in preparation for the big day.

Mr Dacey said: "The emotional message of the music is coming through in rehearsals now. It is a very dramatic work.

"We are set for a special occasion which will be memorable for the students."

The Philharmonic Orchestra will playing with the singers on Sunday.

The youngsters will be leaving Leicester at 6am on Sunday and will rehearse in the morning before performing in the afternoon.

Ian Cox, co-head teacher of Bushloe High School, in Wigston Magna, said: "The pupils have worked incredibly hard and have practised for many hours.

"There are pupils 12 to 13 years old that are going on the big stage in front of many people.

"I think they are incredibly brave and I think it will be a massive success. The concept of getting schools together from around the world is fantastic.

"We are very proud of them."

The event is organised by Sing UK, which promotes singing amongst young people.

Everyone participating is also going to be given poppy seeds so that they can plant wherever they would like.

For more information visit: http://singuk.org/tam/centenary-chorus

Health officials have apologised after it emerged some patients are facing delays in getting diagnostic scans and results at Leicester's hospitals.

One patient who contacted the Leicester Mercury said he is still waiting for the results of an MRI scan carried out on September 1.

Despite being told the result would be back in 10 days but he is still waiting for them.

The patient, who has asked not to be named, said: "When I rang Glenfield Hospital I was informed that it has a backlog and so does the company which they contract the results out to.

"I was told there is no longer a timescale to when I will receive my results."

He added: "I am not the only one suffering, My brother-in-law has had a scan and has been waiting to hear back for more than four weeks now."

A mother said that doctors told her son, 28, who has special needs, that he would need an MRI scan when he went to Leicester Royal Infirmary's accident and emergency department on September 4 after he lost the sight in one eye.

But the appointment is not until Thursday, October 16.

She said: "This is disgusting and it is disgusting the way he has been left like this."

Latest figures from Leicester's hospitals show that at the end of August a total of 52 patients were waiting more than the target time of six weeks for diagnostic MRI scans.

These included 43 for cardiac scans and nine for complex or specialised scans.

And in a report directors at the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust were told that in one week in September 26 patient appointments had to be cancelled due to staff absence and equipment failure.

It added that a total of 120 patients are waiting more than six weeks for diagnostic scans - both CT and MRI scans.

Extra staffing is now being considered to improve performance.

Judy Gilmore, radiology service manager at Leicester's hospitals, said: "We are really sorry one of our patients has had to wait longer than originally expected for their results.

"We endeavour to analyse scans as quickly as possible.

"If after two weeks there are any outstanding, we send the images to an external British company to report the results.

"At times of peak demand, both Leicester's hospitals and external companies experience delays due to capacity.

"We are currently working on ways to improve the process and reduce the length of time patients have to wait from referral to receiving the results."

Figures show that 1,943 are due to have MRI scans at Leicester's hospitals and 843 are waiting for their results.

Ms Gilmore added: "Requests marked 'clinically urgent', including those for suspected cancer, are prioritised and scanned sooner.

"There are a few exceptions where specific doctors need to be present, particularly when scanning younger patients who require general anaesthetic.

"We apologise for any additional concern this causes any of our patients and their family."