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23 December 2009
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		SIMON SAYS A landmark event in the history of England's democracy.

	Leicester's ruling lord, Simon de Montfort forces Henry III to establish the first English Parliament, the famous Parliament of Bats.

		MARKET FORCES Merchants have brought their wares to Leicester since Roman times.

	As early as 1298, Leicester holds a charter permitting a market on the present site, known as the Saturday Market. Leicester had more market sites than any other English town.

		THE GUILDHALL IS BUILT An intriguing collection of buildings, and now a city museum

	The Great Hall of the Guildhall is built. The first Leicester Corporation meets there. Later, it serves as a police station, lock-up and library.

		WYGGESTON BORN Our first textile entrepreneur brings prosperity to the town.

	William Wyggeston is born. From wealth gained through the wool trade he became Leicester's greatest benefactor.

		NEW WALK A breath of fresh air in the heart of the city.

	Leicester's tree-lined New Walk, from today's Welford Place to Granville Road and Victoria Park, is laid out. It's the first pedestrianised walkway in the country

		RAILWAYS THRIVE The railway system extends and puts Leicester on the national map.

	The grand and splendid Campbell Street station is opened by the Midland Counties Railway Company.

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