The latest series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK returns this August bank holiday, and the 2025 edition of the smash-hit series is set to feature a local and well-known queen from our very own Leeds.
Can't wait for the cult favourite TV show to receive its first 'Yorrrrrkshire'.
Already a classic among the queer community following many years on the air over in America, RuPaul's Drag Race UK is set to debut its seventh season this autumn, and part of the fun is always meeting the lineup.
While there's often a Northern name or two, we understandably were over the moon to see that Leeds drag queen 'Silllexa Diction', announced in the 2025 cast.
Now, for those who are unfamiliar with Ms Silllexa Diction, she is a born-and-bred Yorkshire girl who has been on the circuit for roughly seven years, and an increasingly recognisable name for closer to half a decade at the very least.
At 26, she's been doing drag pretty much all of her adult life, and when introducing herself to the broadcasters, she described two of her key traits as 'silly and sexy'.
Going from learning how to design and make her own costumes at the age of 18 to now hosting her own regular 'WERK' drag nights at the Viaduct Showbar - Leeds' leading LGBTQIA+ club and student for nine years running - she's somewhat of a regional icon.
If you're wondering what to expect from her, expect "everything as big and crazy as possible", with an extremely exaggerated female silhouette and about "12 pairs of giant breast plates."
With stilettos/her big camp boots on, she measures at a towering 7'3" (you'd struggle to miss her on a night out) and with a touching self-taught backstory, she's already our favourite - not that we're biased or anything...
Honestly, it has been a crazy fever dream getting here", she says. I am the first Leeds girl on Drag Race, and it just feels correct.
"There's no girl like me in Leeds, let alone the world. You don't really get many gorgeous, stunning, beautiful, conceptual queens that are also funny.
"I think that's why Ru chose me to be here. I've graced the Earth with my presence. I've floated down from above, and I'm here to make you chuckle and laugh.
Once again, series seven of RuPaul Drag Race UK gets underway at 9pm this Sunday, 24 August, on BBC Three and iPlayer. We already know who we want to win.
This Leeds-based family-owned business is famed for supplying pubs, clubs and even ordinary people's homes with classic jukeboxes.
Started up in 1978, Sound Leisure really is a local business like no other, creating and distributing classic jukeboxes to over 40 countries.
This music-machine-making company notes that 75% of the jukeboxes they manufacture and sell throughout the year are bought for everyday homes.
The remaining 25% of orders are for the all-expected hospitality venues like bars, clubs and hotels, with the jukeboxes sometimes bought for company headquarters and retail outlets too.
Although there are other jukebox manufacturers, especially across the pond in the US, Sound Leisure is the only factory in the world that creates jukeboxes to play out across all formats: CD, vinyl and digital.
This jukebox business even runs the world's only 'Custom Shop', which is a design service that offers any music lovers the chance to personalise their pristine player.
So whether you're after a themed jukebox, customisable nameplate or even a bespoke design, this jukebox company's website states: "If you can dream it, we can build it".
One of Sound Leisure's prized products is the music machine inspired Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-themed jukebox which any fan of The Beatles would dream of being its lucky owner.
And there really isn't anything they can't do, as alongside creating classic jukeboxes, the same team even make pinball machines, football tables, LED signs and more.
With CD and vinyl jukeboxes from £5,000 and digital jukeboxes quoted from upwards of £12,000, we're going to need a fair few rainy days to save up our money.
However, you can still marvel at these magnificent music machines without having to dip into your savings, with guided tours starting from just £15.
If you're up for learning a little bit more about music technology or simply after admiring these classic jukeboxes in all their glory, you can find out more about the factory and book your guided tour ticket HERE.
Two giant balloon dog sculptures by acclaimed international artist have landed in Leeds
Clementine Hall
A special Pride activation featuring internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Whatshisname has popped up in Leeds.
Marking 20 years of Leeds Pride and 10 years of Victoria Leeds, the exhibition called ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ is bringing a playful public art experience to the city.
The exhibition, curated by Castle Fine Art located in the Victoria Quarter, features a collection of artworks and oversized sculptures by the artist, whose distinctive creations have earned a global following.
The striking centrepiece of the activation is two of Whatshisname's iconic POPek Balloon Dog sculptures, one is positioned on the central mosaic in Victoria Quarter and the other outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Victoria Leeds centre director, Jo Coburn, said: "This year presents a unique opportunity to celebrate two important milestones for Leeds. As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city's creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene. Whatshisname's work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression, making it an ideal way to celebrate Pride with our visitors."
Artist, Whatshisname, said: "Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill for me. It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life. Over the years, they’ve travelled the world, sparking smiles wherever they go.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the Victoria Leeds and Leeds Pride celebrations!"
The Whatshisname exhibition will be on display at Victoria Leeds until Monday 27 July.
Danny Jones -
22nd August 2025 
