Charles Gray

A Leeds-based photographer captured the intense atmosphere inside Belgrave Music Hall during England’s 3–2 World Cup win over Mexico, describing the scene as electric and chaotic. Paul Craig photographed fans throughout the night, noting the venue’s enclosed setting amplified the excitement. He plans to include the images in a documentary project on fan experiences during the tournament.

The Mandela Gardens water feature in Leeds has again fallen into disrepair a year after its restoration, prompting strong criticism from gardener and campaigner Peter Fawcett, who previously pushed for its refurbishment. Fawcett found the fountain nonfunctional, filled with litter and overgrown plants, and faulted the council for failing to activate and maintain it. Leeds City Council stated that contractors will conduct maintenance next week to restore the feature for summer. Fawcett argued the response should be immediate and said the neglect undermines what was intended as a legacy to Nelson Mandela.

A judge condemned the level of violence at Wetherby Young Offenders Institute after sentencing three teenagers involved in multiple attacks using sharpened toothbrushes. The court detailed several assaults between 2024 and 2025, along with additional burglary offences by one of the offenders. The judge described the prison environment as dangerously understaffed and chaotic. Reports from HM Chief Inspector of Prisons and the Independent Monitoring Boards highlighted persistent violence and weapon possession at the facility. The Ministry of Justice acknowledged ongoing issues and pointed to a multi‑year improvement plan.

Alabama Shakes delivered a powerful return to UK stages at Leeds’ Millennium Square, led by Bethany Howard’s commanding vocals and supported by high‑energy performances from the full band and backing singers. Irish artist Dove Ellis opened with a striking set that showcased remarkable vocal control. The headliners’ set blended blues, soul and rock, featuring crowd favourites and new material including Time and American Dream. Themes of hope and togetherness underscored the performance, culminating in an atmosphere of shared joy between the band and audience.

An inspection of the Knight’s Way Bridge in central Leeds will be carried out over four weeks following long‑standing complaints about broken lighting and worn floor plates. Councillor Paul Wray highlighted persistent resident concerns and recent increases in anti‑social behaviour in the area. Mason Clark Associates has been appointed to complete the inspection, with further updates expected once findings are reviewed and a work plan is developed.

A homeless man, Connor Callaghan, was jailed for 40 months for stealing a JCB mini digger in Leeds on New Year’s Eve and for separate offences involving dangerous e‑bike driving and possession of Class A drugs. CCTV and police identification linked him to the theft, while a later police pursuit captured multiple traffic violations before his arrest. Defence arguments cited drug debts, homelessness and mental health issues. He received a driving ban of four years and eight months.

A 20-year-old repeat offender from Leeds received a three-and-a-half-year sentence at Leeds Crown Court after pleading guilty to possessing crack cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply. Police found £2,000 worth of crack cocaine hidden in new trainers, along with cash and drug-related messages on his phone. His defence said he had returned to drug dealing due to a £10,000 debt and long-term drug use but is now drug free and pursuing educational goals. The judge warned that future offences would lead to harsher sentences and ordered confiscated cash to be donated to charity.

Leeds leaders express strong support for Andy Burnham’s proposed devolution agenda after his major speech outlining plans to shift power from Whitehall to regional authorities. Burnham pledges a decade-long transformation including expanded regional control over transport, energy and housing, creation of a No 10 North base in Manchester, and the largest council housebuilding programme since the post-war era. West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and MPs Mark Sewards and Richard Burgon endorse the proposals, highlighting expectations for economic growth, stronger local decision-making and addressing the housing crisis. Leeds City Council leader James Lewis also welcomes increased council housing commitments and collaboration on urban development initiatives.

First Bus will make 22 revenue protection officers redundant nationwide following concerns raised in Leeds, while confirming no planned timetable changes. The restructuring comes as the West Yorkshire Combined Authority prepares to implement its publicly controlled Weaver Network bus system. The company states it is supporting the transition as part of the mayor’s franchising plans.