The BBC is releasing a new drama telling the story of prolific sex offender Jimmy Savile's life - and Steve Coogan has been cast to play him.
The Alan Partridge actor will take on a more serious role in new BBC drama The Reckoning, will will tell the story of Savile's life and the abuse scandal that surrounded it.
Producers at the BBC have worked with Savile's victims to tell their stories with "sensitivity and respect".
Written by Neil McKay - also behind a drama about serial killer Fred West called Appropriate Adult - the new drama will tell the story of the Top of the Pops and Jim'll Fix It presenter's life.
Speaking on the decision to take on the role, Coogan said he had not made it lightly and called the story of Savile's life "horrific" but said it needed to be told.
He said: "To play Jimmy Savile was not a decision I took lightly. Neil McKay has written an intelligent script tackling sensitively an horrific story which - however harrowing - needs to be told."
Whilst it's understood that some of Savile's victims did report abuse during his lifetime, it wasn't until his death that the allegations properly came to light.
The DJ and television presenter had raised millions of pounds for charity but also abused scores of victims over a 50 year period. Following his death at 84, it was revealed in a report that 72 of his victims were connected with his work at the BBC - including eight who were raped.
Offenses committed by the presenter on NHS premises also cost the health service £1.1m in compensation and legal fees to 52 victims abused by the presenter on its premises. Meanwhile, Savile's estate contributed just over £53 000.
Some TV viewers have expressed strong feelings about the move online. One Leeds viewer said, "Think of all his victims why should his name be glorified in a drama absolutely sick and especially the BBC that covered up for him over all them decades."
Another said, "I was a victim of his and this has brought back horrible flashbacks, it's sickening to do it."
A further person said, "It needs to be aired but it's cruel to do so because the amount of victims that haven't come forward but I think its gunna make a point of even if ya famous and friends in high places they will out you."
And someone else added, "This is the bbc making money on something they covered up for years. How on earth the bbc are allowed to do this…..it’s shocking."
Feature image - Wikimedia Commons
Leeds
A popular Caribbean street food restaurant is coming to Leeds this spring
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."
Georgina Pellant -
27th September 2021 
