June July Alert

Braunstone Alert June / July 2026

FREE CUP OF COFFEE AT THE GROVE COMMUNITY CAFE INSIDE! THE

GROVE COMMUNITY CAFE

Read the Alert online...

Neighbourhood Support Team update...

Meet b inspired’s new Community Engagement Coordinator...

I’m Fee Worton, the new Community Engagement Coordinator at b inspired. Over the past eight years, I’ve worked in community engagement with the Wildlife Trust; helping people across Leicester connect with nature in ways that feel meaningful, accessible and relevant to their lives.

I’m passionate about making a positive difference within communities and helping to build strong, connected neighbourhoods where people feel supported and valued. In my new role, I’ll be spending the next few months getting to know Braunstone better - building relationships with local groups, organisations and services that are already doing fantastic work to support our community in different ways.

Just as importantly, I’m really looking forward to meeting residents and hearing your thoughts, ideas and experiences. I’d love to better understand what matters most to people living in Braunstone, what support is needed, and how we can continue working together to strengthen our community for everyone.

So, if you see me out and about at local events, community spaces or around the area, please come and say hello, I’d love to meet you!

Meet b inspired’s new Wellbeing Coordinator...

Meet Rose Bahar Gursoy, b inspired’s new Wellbeing Coordinator...

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to this role? I am a qualified counsellor, experienced in trauma and mental health. I’ve previously worked in NHS forensic mental health. In my new role, I aim to use my knowledge to foster community-led wellbeing by creating safe, welcoming spaces where individuals feel heard and empowered.

What made you want to join b inspired and work in Braunstone? I wanted a role that supports individual wellbeing and the wider community, and Braunstone’s resilience and warmth made me keen to be part of it.

Why are you passionate about helping people improve their wellbeing? I’ve seen how powerful genuine support can be. People carry heavy experiences, yet show real strength, and it matters to me to help them feel safe, connected and less alone - because even small positive changes can open up new possibilities.

How can the wellbeing programme make a difference to people’s everyday lives?

The wellbeing programme builds connection, routine and belonging. Having a safe space to talk, learn and meet others can make daily challenges feel more manageable and, over time, strengthen coping skills and hope.

0116 279 5020 support@b-inspired.org.uk Neighbourhood Support Base, Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR

www.b-inspired.org.uk @BInspiredLeicester

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@binspiredleics

What role do you hope to play in bringing people together in Braunstone? Working with the team, partners and residents, I want to help create welcoming spaces where people feel comfortable to connect - through groups, conversations and shared activities.

Is there anything else you’d like to say to local people? Please share your ideas - what you need, what you’d like to see, and what would make a difference. If you’d like support or simply a listening ear, you’re always welcome.

One Call, That’s All: Support for Braunstone Residents For the past 18 months, b inspired has been proud to work with Utilita Giving and partners on a project called ‘One Call, That’s All’ (OCTA). The aim is simple: to make it easier for people in Braunstone to get the help they need, when they need it.

Through OCTA, the Neighbourhood Support Team (NST) brings together a wide range of local services in one place. This means residents don’t have to figure everything out on their own. Whether it’s help with food, advice about benefits or debt, or support for health and wellbeing; the team can quickly connect people to the right support.

At the heart of the project is NST Support Worker, Sally. She works closely with residents, taking the time to listen and understand their situation before helping them find practical solutions. Whether someone is facing a short-term problem or needs ongoing support, Sally makes sure they don’t have to face it alone.

Recently, the team has seen increasing demand for help with food and housing, including people at risk of losing their homes. These situations can be stressful, but getting support early can make a real difference.

Sally wants residents to feel comfortable reaching out: “Come and have a chat with me, and I’ll do my best to help you work through things and make them feel more manageable.”

This personal approach is what makes the service so valuable. By listening carefully and connecting people with the right support, the team is helping residents through some of life’s toughest moments.

For Sally: “The most rewarding part of my role is seeing someone come through a tough time and start to feel more positive again.”

Her advice is simple: “Don’t wait to ask for help. The sooner you do, the easier it is to get things back on track.”

The message for Braunstone residents is clear - support is available, and one conversation could be the first step towards making life feel more manageable again.

A Story of Support

If anything nee ds sorting, Sally’s the one to spea k to!

0116 279 5020

support@b-inspired.org.uk

We recently helped a couple whose financial situation changed after a family member moved into a care home. They weren’t aware of the support available, so Sally arranged appointments for benefits and energy advice.

Alongside regular help from the Food Hub, this support made a real difference, helping them move towards a more stable financial situation.

Neighbourhood Support Base, Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR

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Wellbeing Programme Update...

Over the next few months, we’ll develop the wellbeing programme by listening to local people.

The Neighbourhood Support Team use the Warwick‑Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scales (WEMWBS); short check‑in questions to understand how people are feeling. This questionnaire doesn’t shape the programme, but helps us understand what kind of support people might need. If you haven’t completed a questionnaire yet, it would really help us if you could take a few minutes to do so.

We’re also beginning to introduce the NHS 5 Ways to Mental Wellbeing, which will guide much of our work going forward. These five simple, evidence‑based actions can make a real difference to how we feel day‑to‑day.

These principles will be reflected in our groups, activities, and future projects.

As part of “Give,” it’s worth mentioning that 14 June is World Blood Donor Day. For anyone who is able and willing, donating blood is a powerful way to give back and support others in need. It’s a meaningful act that can save lives and also contributes to your own sense of purpose and wellbeing.

You can share your ideas by popping into the Neighbourhood Support Base for a chat, or by giving us a call. Your feedback helps us understand what would make a real difference to your wellbeing, and we will take your ideas on board as we continue shaping the programme and working with partners across the community.

There are lots of activities in and around Braunstone, that people can do to help improve their wellbeing. Many of which, b inspired share on our social media pages - why not give us a follow!

Want to take the first step in improving your wellbeing?

Complete the Questionnaire online!

The NHS 5 Ways to Mental Wellbeing

Connect With Others

Be Physically Active

Learn New Skills 0116 279 5020 support@b-inspired.org.uk

Give To Others

Neighbourhood Support Base, Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR

www.b-inspired.org.uk @BInspiredLeicester

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Be Present @binspiredleics

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Braunstone Foodshare Update...

More Than Food: b inspired’s Food Hub When people hear the word foodbank, they often think of a quick emergency visit, a prepacked bag of food, and lots of paperwork.

B inspired’s Food Hub is different.

We understand that asking for help can feel overwhelming, so we aim to make the process as simple and welcoming as possible. You don’t need a referral, and support is available regularly if needed. Our goal is to create a friendly, relaxed space where people feel comfortable and supported, without fear of judgement.

One of the biggest differences is choice. Instead of receiving a set food parcel, people can choose the food that works best for them and their family. This not only helps reduce waste but also gives people more control at a time when life can feel uncertain.

We also recognise that worries about food are often linked to other pressures, such as rising bills, debt, or loneliness. That’s why the Food Hub offers more than just food.

Support can include: Advice on budgeting and cooking Help accessing other services Community activities to reduce isolation Signposting for benefits, debt advice, and energy support Above all, the Food Hub is about building connections within the community and offering kindness, understanding, and respect to everyone, whatever their situation.

Taking that first step can be difficult, but it can also be the start of things improving. Even a simple conversation can lift a weight and lead to practical help, advice, and renewed confidence.

You don’t have to face things alone - there is always someone here who cares and wants to help.

Donations can be brought to: Neighbourhood Support Base, Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR

A Story of Support A local resident turned to b inspired’s Food Hub after their working hours were reduced and household bills continued to rise, making it harder to afford essentials like food and energy. At one point, they were even skipping meals to keep up with costs.

After hearing about b inspired’s Food Hub from a neighbour, they decided to reach out. Although nervous at first, they were reassured by the friendly, non-judgemental welcome, which helped them feel more comfortable asking for support.

They were able to choose the food they needed, while staff offered practical advice and signposted them to other services; including support with energy bills and budgeting. With this help, they gradually became more financially stable, increased their working hours, and became less reliant on the service.

The Food Hub offers more than food - it provides ongoing support to help people improve their situation and feel more connected to their community.

We are currently in need of...

Coffee Sugar Squash Cereal Tinned Meats Tinned veg Condiments Biscuits Pasta Sauce Hygiene/cleaning Products

Please call us in advance to r arrange a time to drop off you donations...

0116 279 5020 support@b-inspired.org.uk

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Some important Thank Yous...

We’d like to say a big thank you to all the organisations and community partners who have supported our Food Hub over the past few months. Your generosity and ongoing support have made a real difference to local people.

A special thank you to: Asda Fosse Park Co-op Leicester Forest East Sainsbury’s Local Tesco Express Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church St Peter’s Church St Barts (LFE) Christ the King Church East Midlands Railway And our many anonymous donors We also recieved many donations of Easter eggs, making this time of year special for our families.

Whether through food donations, fundraising, or other support, your contributions help keep the Food Hub running and allow us to reach people who need it most.

We simply couldn’t do this without you - thank you for being such an important part of our community.

Our Summer donation needs...

Food items: Pasta, rice, tinned fruit & veg, cereal, instant noodles, crackers, biscuits, jam, peanut butter, long-life milk

Food Hub Volunteer Testimony As a volunteer working with the Food Hub, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact it has on residents.

Many people arrive feeling worried, embarrassed, or unsure about asking for help. After spending time with us, that usually changes quite quickly. The atmosphere is welcoming and non-judgemental, and you can often see people relax once they realise they’re being treated with respect.

One of the most important things we offer is choice.

Instead of handing out pre-packed parcels, people are able to pick the food they actually want and need. From a volunteers point of view, this really helps people feel more in control of their situation, which is just as important as the food itself.

We also try to do more than just provide food. We talk to people about other support that might help them. It’s not unusual for someone to come in just for food support and later get linked up with services that help them improve their overall situation.

Another impact I notice is the sense of community the Food Hub creates. Some people come in very isolated, and over time they begin to feel more comfortable talking to staff and other residents. For a few, it becomes one of the only places where they feel listened to.

Overall, volunteering here has shown me that the Food Hub is not just about short-term food support. It helps people regain confidence, feel supported, and take steps towards improving their circumstances.

Karuna, Food Hub Volunteer

Summer Drinks & Refreshments: Squash / cordial, fruit juice, bottled water, tea, coffee School Holiday / Packed Lunch Items Snack bars / cereal bars, crisps, small juice cartons, sandwich fillings (e.g. tuna, ham, spreads) Hygiene & Essential Items

Sun cream, soap & shampoo, toothpaste & toothbrushes, toilet roll, washing-up liquid

Thank you to the staff and customers at ASDA Fosse Park, for supporting our Food Drive and helping us collect donations for the Food Hub!

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Volunteers' Week Mon 1 - Sun 7 June 2026 Celebrate the Power of Volunteering in Braunstone!

Volunteers’ Week is a chance to recognise and celebrate the people who give their time, care and energy to support others across our Braunstone community.

Volunteering is at the heart of b inspired’s Neighbourhood Support Team (NST), with many ways to get involved - from supporting wellbeing activities and helping out at our Food Hub, to assisting with the Alert delivery. Whether you get involved regularly, lend a hand now and then, support an event, or share a skill, every contribution makes a real difference.

It’s not only valuable for the community - it benefits you, too. Volunteering can build confidence, help you meet new people, develop skills and feel more connected to where you live. For many, it can even open doors to training and employment opportunities.

We know everyone’s availability is different, so the NST offers flexible roles. Whether you’re looking for a one-off opportunity or something longer-term, we’ll help you find a way to get involved that fits your life.

This Volunteers’ Week, we’d like to say a huge thank you to all our volunteers. Your time and dedication help strengthen the community and make Braunstone a better place for everyone.

Why People Volunteer...

Did You Know..?

“Volunteering is about working together, staying positive, and celebrating the small wins.”

A few hours of volunteering each month can strengthen community connection and reduce loneliness.

“Volunteering builds confidence, brings people together, and helps you grow.”

Young people who volunteer are more likely to develop leadership, teamwork and communication skills.

“Volunteering is about making a difference, supporting others, and boosting your own wellbeing too.”

“Volunteering can help you give back, stay active, and connect with your community.”

“Volunteering is a way of staying active, and you can discover more of your community along the way.”

Many employers value volunteer experience, because it demostrates initiative, realibility and empathy.

Retired people often mentor, passing skills and life lessons to other generations.

Volunteering is the heart of the community.

Interested in getting involved?

We’d love to hear from you!

Contact the Neighbourhood Support Team on 0116 279 5020 or support@b-inspired.org.uk

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Work Well Coach

Your health and wellbeing matters. If you’re finding it difficult to stay in work or return to employment due to a health condition, disability, or mental health challenges, our Work Well Coach is here to support you.

How We Can Help: Our tailored, one-to-one support can help you:

Stay in Work – Practical strategies to manage your health while remaining employed.

Return to Work – Guidance on transitioning back after illness or time away.

Build Confidence – Support to overcome selfdoubt and boost resilience.

Access Workplace Adjustments – Guidance on reasonable accommodations to make work more manageable.

Connect with Specialist Services – Signposting to mental health, physiotherapy, financial, and other support services.

Manage Mental Wellbeing – Strategies for reducing stress, anxiety, and workplace overwhelm.

Explore New Job Opportunities If your current role isn’t right, we can help you find a better fit.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible for support if you:

Hi, I’m Shyann, your Work and Health Coach. I support patients at Hockley Farm Medical Practice and Oakmeadow Surgery, mainly offering remote support Monday–Friday. To receive work and health coaching, request a referral from your GP, support worker or self-refer by scanning the QR code.

How to Access Support

struggling to stay in work due to a physical or ✔Are mental health condition. ✔Need help returning to work after a period of illness.

Feel that your mental health is preventing you ✔from engaging fully in work or job-seeking Would benefit from practical strategies and ✔workplace adjustments to make work more manageable.

Support is designed to help you take positive steps toward better health, confidence, and work-life balance.

Let’s work together to help you stay well and succeed in work. Your health and wellbeing matters.

In Partnership with...

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What’s been Happening at The Grove Community Hub? Hands-On Fire Station Experience for The Grove’s Young People At The Grove, we have been working in partnership with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service to give young people the opportunity to take part in a drills and skills programme, delivered at fire stations across Leicester.

This six-week programme has been a fantastic experience, with participants learning how a fire station operates, developing practical firefighting skills such as using a fire hose, and building confidence through hands-on activities.

The sessions have been thoroughly enjoyed by everyone involved, offering not only new skills but also a valuable insight into teamwork, responsibility, and the role of the fire service in the community.

Mental Health Awareness Week at The Grove...

During Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May), youth workers at The Grove highlighted the importance of talking and ensured young people knew they had a safe, supportive space to turn to.

Throughout the week, young people engaged in open and honest conversations with the youth team, sharing experiences and building the confidence to speak about their mental health.

The team also explored practical ways to support wellbeing and shared information about local services. One key message ran throughout the week: be kind to others - and don’t forget to be kind to yourself.

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Learning to Save Lives at The Grove In May, 40 young people from The Grove took part in a knife crime awareness and first aid session.

The workshop was delivered by Tyler from the Ditch the Knife campaign, building on earlier work by Grove youth workers, who recently supported 13 young people to complete a Knife Attack First Aid Award. When Tyler invited us to be part of his city-wide programme, we were pleased to work together.

The turnout exceeded expectations, with 40 young people fully engaging in the two-hour session. Participants learned how to respond in an emergency, including how to use bleed kits, as well as gaining a better understanding of the risks and realities of knife crime.

The session not only provided practical, potentially life-saving skills, but also helped raise awareness and encourage informed, positive choices among those who took part.

Join The Grove’s Summer Scheme!

The Grove’s Summer Holiday Scheme for young people is back once again!

This years programme will take place on the following dates: Mon 20 - Thurs 23 July Mon 27 - Thurs 30 July Mon 3 - Thurs 6 Aug Mon 10 - Thurs 13 Aug The scheme will run from 9am-3pm each day.

Registration will be opening soon, so please keep an eye on The Grove’s social media channels for further details.

thegrovehub thegrovecommunityhub

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A Trip to Wembley Stadium!

Following a fantastic trip last year, a group of young girls from The Grove were given another brilliant opportunity to watch England take on Spain at Wembley Stadium.

The girls, who play for the aptly named Iannis Lionesses U12's (based at The Grove), had an amazing time.

We must be a good luck charm, as England repeated last year’s result, securing another 1-0 victory to make the evening even more special!

The Grove also runs a weekly Free Girls Football session every Saturday from 11am-12pm at The Grove Community Hub, in partnership with Iannis Football Club.

Braunstone’s Got Talent!

Braunstone had a moment to celebrate this spring as Braunstone Community Primary School’s choir lit up the stage on Britain’s Got Talent, with their audition broadcast to millions in April. It was a performance that showcased the very best of local talent, spirit and community pride.

The group of 100 children, aged 7-11, performed alongside former headteacher Mr T, delivering a high-energy, choreographed routine centred on being the “best version of themselves.” The performance grew out of a much-loved school tradition, where classrooms transform into dance studios every Friday - giving pupils the chance to express themselves, build confidence and enjoy learning in a fun, creative way.

Their unforgettable audition captured hearts and earned the ultimate accolade: the Golden Buzzer from guest judge Stacey Solomon, sending them straight through to the live semi-finals in May and sparking excitement across the school and wider community.

When the semi-finals arrived, the children returned to the stage with even more energy; delivering a performance filled with joy, resilience and celebration. One standout moment had the audience roaring with laughter, when Simon Cowell was playfully sprayed with silly string, showing the group’s confidence as well as their sense of fun.

This journey has been about far more than television. It’s been a powerful opportunity for young people in Braunstone to shine on a national stage and share a positive story about their community.

For the children involved, it’s an experience they will never forget - and one that has firmly put Braunstone in the spotlight.

Braunstone Community Primary School has shown the nation what can happen when creativity, teamwork and opportunity come together, with the whole community cheering them on every step of the way.

the stage. n o g in o g t It was grea we did it in d n a ig b o It was s ple f those peo o ll a f o t n fro

I was really e xcited. It was a dream and it made me rea lly happy

nd scared, but I a s u o rv e n lt fe I loved it

ons when the ballo s a w it b st e b The nd m the ceiling a came down fro on nd seeing Sim a s u r e v o ll a bounced ring ered in silly st Cowell get cov

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Local Updates...

Braunstone & Rowley Fields Police We are focusing on tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Braunstone Park. This includes regular high-visibility patrols, speaking with local residents, and carrying out knife searches. Recently, one of these searches led to an abandoned knife being safely recovered. A stolen bike was also returned to its owner after a successful social media appeal.

Local surveys show that road safety is a big concern for residents. Issues include speeding and the unsafe use of e-bikes, e-scooters and off-road motorbikes. To address this, the local police team has carried out targeted operations. So far, this has led to 10 illegal e-bikes and two illegal e-scooters being seized, as well as several uninsured and unlicensed vehicles being taken off the road.

Upcoming Beat Surgeries:

3 June, 11am-12pm

BRITE Centre

1 July, 10am-12pm

BRITE Centre

12 June, 9.30-10.30am

Walled Garden

8 July, 11am-12pm

BRITE Centre

13 June, 8.30-10.30am

Braunstone Parkrun

11 July, 8.30-10am

Braunstone Parkrun

17 July, 10-11am

Hockley Farm

19 July, 10-11am

Rowley Fields Allotments

29 July, 10-11am

Tesco Express Rowley Fields

17 June, 5-6pm

22 June, 3-4pm

30 June, 10-11am

femina polskie centrum dla bołet

The Manor Hockley Farm Medical Centre Neighbourhood Support Base

Femina is a dedicated non-profit organisation created by women, for women. Our mission is to support Polish-speaking residents in Leicester by providing a space where they can build confidence, care for their wellbeing, and foster meaningful local connections.

We offer a place where Polish women can find friendship, advice, and a helping hand with the ups and downs of family life far from home.

Each week, about 120 women join their sessions - whether it’s a children’s dance class or a pregnancy fitness group at The Grove Community Hub, or one of their bigger events like a family day or an information session with a Polish midwife.

If you know a Polish-speaking woman in Braunstone who’d like some company, a class, or just a friendly coffee, point her towards femina.org.uk. She’ll find a warm welcome.

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At Braunstone’s Best Start Family Hub...

Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR Activity

Day

Time

Info

Stay & Play

Fri

9.30-11am (until 10/7/26)

From the 17 June this session changes to Get Up and Go sessions, held at The Grove Community Hub, 10am-12pm

Toddlers Learning Together

Thurs

11am-12pm

Running at the Family Hub all through the summer holidays

Baby Cafe

Thurs

12.30-2pm

Drop-in session for infant feeding support and socialising

Babies Learning Together

Fri

1-2.30pm

Running at the Family Hub all through the summer holidays

Advice Point Support

MonFri

8.30am-5pm (4.30pm on Fri)

Join Braunstone History Group for the Stable Block Museum Open Day! Sat 13 June, 10am-3pm at the Stable Block Museum (behind Winstanley House)

An update for Blessed Sacrament...

June and July are busy and happy months as young people in our parish receive First Holy Communion and Confirmation. We warmly welcome them and their families. June is also our Parish Feast Day. For 90 years, Blessed Sacrament Church has supported the Braunstone community.

Events: Friday pop‑in: 10-11.30am, Blessed Sacrament Drop‑in & Drop‑off: 2x Weds a month, 2-4pm 10 June - Walk & Mass 24 June - Lunch 8 July - Games Day 22 July - Picnic & prayers, Mount St. Bernards More details: westleicestercatholic.org.uk or ourcatholicfaith@proton.me.

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& CAFE

Preloved@45 Community Shop & Café are based at 45 Wellinger Way. We are a not-for-profit organisation run by local people for local people; proud to be based in the heart of Braunstone.

Volunteers play a big role in our community shop, and we’re very grateful to everyone who gives their time to support us.

We’re currently looking for a volunteer to help with Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) on donated electrical items. Full training and ongoing support will be provided, so no previous experience is needed.

We’d also love to hear from our customers. If there’s anything we could do better or new ideas you’d like us to try, please let us know when you visit.

“The shop feels like a real community space. Nothing is too much trouble and you always look out for things and save them. Thank you” - Lucy “The volunteers make us feel really welcome.”

“Who doesn’t love a bargain and there are always bargains here.”

Your donations are vital in keeping our shop open, and we’re very grateful for your generosity.

We kindly ask that donations are not left outside when we are closed. Unfortunately, items can be taken, damaged by animals, scattered, or ruined by bad weather. We accept donations all day while we are open, so please bring them in during these times.

Giving back is at the heart of our community shop. This month, we have supported local people and groups by: Donating skates to the local Adventure Playground Providing tennis and squash racquets, as well as a space hopper, to a local school Giving toys to support a parent so they could celebrate their child’s birthday Opening hours are: 10am-4pm, Tuesday-Friday

What’s On at the BRITE Centre?

What

Date

Time

Info

Diamond Art

Sat 13 Jun

1-3pm

For the whole family, to book a place call Theresa on 07828 976357

Fathers Day Arts & Crafts

Sat 20 Jun

12-3pm

FREE - Places must be booked

Family Comedy Show

Sat 20 Jun

2-3pm

FREE

1-3pm

Ready to mash up the Yellow Brick Road: colours, laughter and pure energy from start to finish. Tickets £5.00 or Family ticket of 4, £12.00. Bought in advance.

Wizard of Oz, Caribbean Inspired, performance.

Summer Reading Challenge

Sat 27 Jun

Mon 13 Jul - Fri 21 Aug

Call centre for activities - different days & times

BRITE Centre, Braunstone Avenue, LE3 1LE

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Tel: 0116 454 0280