Ady Dayman

Recovering alcoholic Darren Thompson from Hinckley, Leicestershire, saved £9,000 by quitting alcohol and used the money to attend every England game during a 35-day World Cup trip across the United States and Mexico. He described England's 3-2 victory over Mexico as the highlight, while acknowledging the challenges of being around alcohol at the tournament. Continuing to receive support for sobriety, Thompson hopes his experience will raise awareness of alcohol addiction and inspire others to seek recovery.

Farmers in Leicestershire and surrounding areas are increasingly installing fans and mist sprayers to protect dairy herds from rising summer temperatures, which have reduced milk yields. Producers report cows spending more time indoors to avoid heat, while market operators and farm service providers highlight the role of modern sheds and improved cooling technology. Advances such as thermostat‑controlled systems are becoming more affordable, and younger farmers are adopting them to adapt to hotter conditions that may represent a new normal.

A new mural in Leicester's Highcross shopping centre features influential local figures from public health, music, literature and community life, created in collaboration with Graffwerk to celebrate the city's diversity and cultural identity. Honourees including Prof Ivan Browne, Serge Pizzorno, Sir David Attenborough and others are depicted to highlight community pride and the many cultural influences shaping the city. The installation aims to bring creativity into the retail environment while emphasising unity and the value of Leicester’s multicultural character.

Curve Theatre’s bid to temporarily run the closed Rutland Centre car park was rejected, leaving the venue concerned about falling audience numbers and broader effects on Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. The car park remains shut following NCP’s collapse, while three other sites have secured operators. Theatre chief executive Chris Stafford warned the closure is affecting shows and other nearby businesses. Councillor Zuffar Haq urged urgency in securing a deal, saying the owners must be realistic about pricing. Leicester City Council said it is working with the owner and promoting alternative parking options, though no update has been agreed.