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Innovative new ‘rapid’ jab to treat 14 different cancer types now available on NHS

The new jab can be administered in just one minute.

Emily Sergeant Emily Sergeant - 7th May 2026

A groundbreaking new ‘rapid’ cancer jab that can be administered in just 60 seconds is now available on the NHS.

It’s hoped that tens of thousands of patients on the NHS could benefit from the new immunotherapy jab – which is an injectable form of pembrolizumab (Keytruda) – as it can slash the time the treatment takes by up to 90%, helping people spend less time in hospital while also improving the health service’s productivity.

The jab can be used to treat 14 different types of cancer, including lung, breast, head and neck, and cervical cancers.

Put simply, it works by triggering immune cells to recognise and kill cancer cells.

The new under-the-skin injection replaces an intravenous (IV) infusion – which can take up to two hours in total, per session – sparing patients ‘unnecessary’ time in treatment units and freeing up capacity for clinicians to see and treat more people.

The treatment will be given every three weeks as a one-minute injection, or every six weeks as a two-minute injection, depending on an individual’s cancer type.

Currently, around 14,000 patients start pembrolizumab therapy each year in England, and most are now expected to benefit from this more-convenient treatment.

Speaking on the rollout of the new jab this week, Professor Peter Johnson, who is the NHS National Clinical Director for Cancer, said: “This immunotherapy offers a lifeline for thousands of patients and it’s fantastic that this new rapid jab can now take just a minute to deliver, meaning patients can get back to living their lives rather than spending hours in a hospital chair.

“Managing cancer treatment and regular hospital trips can be really exhausting.

“Not only will this innovation make therapy much quicker and more convenient for patients, it will also help free up vital appointments for NHS teams to treat more people and continue to bring down waiting times”.

Read more: Channel 4 is looking for people from Yorkshire to play world’s biggest game of hide and seek

Featured Image – NappyStudio (via Unsplash)

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Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon 2026 guide – everything you need to know

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

The 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon (RBLM) is nearly upon us.

And with thousands set to flood the region, we thought we'd round up all the important information you need to know, from waves and start times to the route and more.

Getting underway this weekend, this year marks just the third-ever edition of the modern Leeds Marathon, which was set up in honour of Rhinos legend and MND champion Rob Burrow in 2023.

In addition to over 12,000 locals, marathon enthusiasts, fantastic fundraisers and casual runners alike taking part in the 2025 RBLM , there are set to be even more spectators expected to line the streets, so it's best you're all kept in the loop.

So, without further ado, here's our comprehensive guide for the 2026 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon.

Hosted by Run For All yet again, this year's Leeds Marathon is set to be just as special.

What is the route?

Where else to start other than, well, with where the run will be starting?

Getting underway once again from the Headingley Stadium, the 26.2-mile slog will see Yorkshire's finest pass through the busy student district, as well as around Golden Acre Park, towards Bramhope, around Otley, into the city centre and back.

You can see the full route map down below.

Leeds Marathon Map 2026

If you're running it, you'll also be glad to see that there are a total of eight different toilet stops and water stations, meaning you'll have the opportunity to take any necessary breaks every few miles.

How to get there?

For those travelling to the start/finish line (yes, it finishes back at the iconic cricket ground too), it is advised that people avoid driving and use public transport where possible to avoid further congestion.

There will be regular trains and First Bus Leeds services, but for those driving into the area, there is the Stourton Park & Ride service with a bus direct to the stadium.

Upon arriving, the only way to access the start line on race day is via Gate G behind the western terrace of the cricket stadium off Kirkstall Road.

Spectator shuttles will also be running between Queenswood Drive and the two main spectator hubs: Adel and Otley. You can find out more details on where to watch HERE.

Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon waves and start times

Now, as for start times, participants will be set off in waves depending on their estimated finish time, which corresponds to the colour of their bib.Wave start times

Blue – 09:00

Red – 09:04

Green & Yellow – 09:10

MND Wave – 09:19

Purple - 09:21

Meanwhile, those doing the half-marathon distance and fun runners will be starting at 10am.

Leeds Marathon road closures and travel advice

Now, it goes without saying that setting up a major marathon that spans all the way from Headingley to Leeds, passing through some of the busiest parts of West Yorkshire, involves quite a lot of logistical planning.

Luckily, Leeds City Council have worked closely with the event team to make the marathon route run as smoothly as possible whilst also trying to minimise the impact on traffic and general travel.

You can find a full breakdown of all the road closures for this year's Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon here.

So, for everyone taking on the Leeds Marathon to honour not just Rob Burrow but whoever they might be running it for, we wish you the best of luck and just know that you've already done him, us, yourselves and everyone else SO very proud.

Now go and smash it!

Featured Images — Run For All (supplied)

News

Leeds Pride reveals complete star-studded line up for huge 20th anniversary celebration

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall

It's time folks, the full lineup for Leeds Pride 2026 has officially been revealed.

This year there are more acts than ever before set to take to the stage across a fabulous two-day festival.

Headlining the weekend will be the incredible La Voix and Sweet Female Attitude. They’ll be joined by, Tomara Thomas, Livin’ Joy ft. Luzahnn, and Baga Chipz, alongside a whole host of other exciting names.

And it doesn't stop there, as presenting the festivities this year will be Bradley Riches, Soraya Vivian, drag icons Mamma Bear and St Sordid Secret.

Taking place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July 2026, the milestone event will see the city come alive with its best Pride to date.

Organisers are already expecting record-breaking crowds for the packed programme of entertainment which will take place from 12pm – 10pm on both days.

Image: Supplied

A new addition for 2026 - Leeds Pride will host The Freedom Party, a ticketed Saturday event, helping to secure the future of the festival for years to come.

Guests can expect a high energy day featuring incredible stage shows and some of the UK’s best tribute acts, paying homage to the hit songs and pop icons of the last 20 years.

Tickets for The Freedom Party are available now from just £7.50, offering incredible value for a full day of live entertainment. Once inside, attendees can enter and exit the site freely

Image: Supplied

This year also introduces a new and improved VIP area on Lower Briggate, alongside an expanded festival footprint and enhanced production.

A spokesperson for Leeds Pride said: ““Celebrating 20 years of Leeds Pride is a huge moment for the city and the community. This year’s line-up is our biggest ever, with more acts, more local talent and more to experience across the entire weekend.

“What we have in Leeds is genuinely rare, and that’s a Pride celebration that takes place right in the heart of the city. While many other Pride events are moving out to parks and greenfield sites, we’re proud to keep Leeds Pride woven into the fabric of the city. It creates an incredible atmosphere and means the celebration is shared across Leeds, supporting hotels, bars, restaurants and local businesses throughout the weekend.

Image: Supplied

“Pride remains as important as ever, and introducing a ticketed Saturday allows us to protect and grow the event for the future. We’re asking people to support us where they can, even a small contribution helps us continue delivering Pride for everyone.

“We can’t wait to welcome Leeds and visitors from across the UK to what will be an unforgettable weekend.”

Read more: Popular beer festival showcasing over 35 indie breweries is returning to Leeds this month

Featured image - Supplied

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