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A St Helens farmer is giving away a baby Christmas tree to every baby born this year.
It’s a favourite tradition that goes back around 50 years for Rainfords Farm and Christmas Trees in Eccleston – and owner Richard Rainford is hoping that hundreds of young parents will be in to collect theirs this year.
The idea is that the young tree grows as your newborn does:
“Although we had one lady in the other week saying her tree’s far outgrowing her seven-year-old child,” smiles Richard. “But then they do grow around a foot every year!”
“It’s a lovely tradition that we started here decades ago, and one that we’ll always continue. There must be tens of thousands of trees growing all around the area as generations of families have planted their tree!
“It’s a way of marking a baby’s first Christmas and that’s something very special that we can be a part of.”
The saplings – this year Nordmann Firs – are all grown on Richard’s Catchdale Moss Lane farm, and it takes three years to get them to the size when they’re ready to be gifted out.
They can be planted in gardens or pots, ‘or somewhere random in a park where you can watch it grow’.
And Richard is always on hand to give advice about which soil to use, when to repot them, and more to ensure they thrive.
“We’ve had another person in this year who said their child is now 17 and their tree is still going strong. It’s a bit of a passion project for me.
“We normally give away about 1,500 trees every year and I think we do it because we have customers who have been coming here for years to get their main Christmas tree, generations of families, and they become like family to us,” explains Richard.
“That means something to us. They mean something to us. And we don’t take that for granted.
“It’s a privilege to be such a big part of someone’s Christmas. It’s not just another day, it’s a very special time of year.”
Richard grows six varieties of trees, including Nordmann Firs, Norway Spruce, and Balsam Firs.
It’s currently tagging season where people can go and choose their tree and tag it to reserve it.
That tree can then be collected or delivered:
“People get in touch the day before they want their tree and we cut it down for them.
“Some people like to be here when the tree is felled and take it home straight away, and that’s such a lovely tradition too.”
Rainfords Farm and Christmas Trees is now open every day from 10am until 5pm, and until 4pm on Sundays, and its barn shop is filled to the rafters with all things festive from baubles and garlands to ornaments and tasty treats.
It’s holding wreath making workshops – using fresh fir from its trees – on Thursday and Friday, November 27-28, and Monday, December 1.
Parents of babies born after last Christmas can collect a free baby tree right up until this Christmas or until they run out: “But we don’t usually do that,” says Richard.
“So we’d love people to come and collect a baby tree and watch it grow over the years … and carry on a wonderful tradition.”
Find out more about Rainfords Farm here.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Stunning singer Rebecca Ferguson will be performing at The Guide Liverpool Heroes 2025 awards – and she can’t wait to entertain her fellow Scousers and celebrate the city she’s so proud of.
“I’m so excited,” says Rebecca.
“It’s just so lovely whenever I come home, but especially when it’s for something like this.
“It gives me such a good feeling and I’m so looking forward to it.”
Rebecca, 39, is the headline act at the inaugural awards evening being held at the Titanic Hotel on Friday, November 21, and playing for it goes beyond her usual performances as she says it’s celebrating everything and all those she holds dear.
“I’m fiercely proud of Liverpool – and very protective (I won’t have people saying anything against it). I’m proud of where I’m from.
“You don’t realise until you leave how friendly people are, how warm, open and honest they are. Scousers are authentic.
“I love coming home because you can ask people how they are and get an honest answer, which means you can genuinely connect with people and there’s no shame in looking vulnerable.
“And because, as the awards evening will show, it’s a city that comes together. People do so much for other people and I don’t know whether you get that anywhere else.”
The mum of four admits she might need to bring a tissue or two to The Guide Liverpool Heroes 2025 awards – brought to you by Liverpool Cruise Port and in Partnership with San Carlo Restaurants – which will focus on everything from community projects, charities and emergency services to sports heroes and influencers, with four special awards – one to be revealed only on the night.
“I do get emotional when I hear all the heartwarming stories,” she smiles.
“I’ll definitely be moved. We focus on celebrity and, as a society, we can get lost in that. The people who are really doing amazing things might not be well known, but they are the ones giving so much back to their community and those around them.
“The older you get, and the more you grow as a person, you realise it’s all about community and what we can do to help each other. And that can be hard. It’s easy to say from a place of privilege but not if you’re someone who’s working two jobs and has kids but we need to look out for each other – like those being rewarded and honoured at the awards have done.
“As Scousers it’s the way we are – warm, but really tough. My mum never had any money, but we’d always have people in our house that weren’t doing too well; other single mums that she’d be trying to help because they were struggling.
“And it’s not transactional. We don’t expect something in return, not praise, it’s just what you do – again like so many of the people who will be celebrated at the awards.”
Rebecca will be performing a collection of her own hits and covers at The Guide Liverpool Heroes 2025 awards:
“I’ve got a jazz trio, I’ve got a trumpet player, so it will be fun songs like Very Superstitious, because people want to have a good old dance.”
But it won’t be the only chance Liverpool will have to enjoy her music over the coming weeks.
After a much-acclaimed Christmas Show at the M&S Arena last year, Rebecca will be back in the city on December 6.
She is performing another festive show, A Feeling of Christmas with Rebecca Ferguson, at the Liverpool Philharmonic with a mix of club classics, and all the Yuletide favourites like Santa Baby and White Christmas accompanied by The Syd Lawrence Orchestra.
“I love Christmas. My decorations went up on Bonfire Night which shows you just how much I love it!” she laughs. “I get a bit of stick for it, but I think people are used to it now.
“I love the atmosphere, the good feel, the lights and the house being sparkly. It’s just my nature.
“Life’s quite hard and a lot of people are struggling, and I think Christmas brings a bit of light and joy – just like those being honoured in the Guide’s awards.
“That’s so important and it’s right that we shine a spotlight on all those who do so much for our city, and are leaving such a wonderful legacy.”
Find out more about The Guide Liverpool Heroes here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
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The finalists for this year’s Liverpool City Region Photo Awards have been unveiled.
An independent judging panel cropped more than 2,000 photographs to create a shortlist of just 18 photographers capturing images of celebration, connection, futures, shared spaces, movement, and care.
Delivered by Open Eye Gallery with the support of Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, the competition is in its second year and has attracted some of the region’s best amateur and professional talent.
The list includes an amateur photographer who took part in this year’s ‘Photo Here’ residencies, a city region wide project that brought together six diverse community groups – including refugees and asylum seekers, LGBTQI+ members, and D/deaf and BSL users – to share their stories through socially engaged photography.
Councillor Mike Wharton, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Business, Investment and Trade said:
“These awards are more than a celebration of photography – they’re a celebration of the people and places that make our region unique. Every image tells a story of connection and creativity, and that’s what makes this competition so special.
“It’s not just about technical skill; it’s about capturing the spirit of our communities and the shared experiences that bind us together. Through initiatives like this, we’re showcasing the incredible talent that exists in every corner of the Liverpool City Region and reinforcing the role of culture in bringing people closer.”
Winners will be announced on 27 November 2025 at the launch of the photographic exhibition of their work at Open Eye Gallery. The exhibition is open to the public from 28 November to 11 January.
Category winners will receive £500, while commended photographers will be awarded £100.
Declan Connolly, Liverpool City Region Photo Awards Lead at Open Eye Gallery, said:
“Photography has the power to stop us in our tracks and make us see the world differently. The finalists this year show just how vibrant and diverse our local talent is – their work reflects the heart of our communities and the possibilities of our shared future.
“These images are not only visually striking; they carry meaning, emotion, and a sense of place. That’s what makes the Liverpool City Region Photo Awards so exciting – they give photographers a platform to share stories that matter and invite all of us to look again at the world around us.”
The Liverpool City Region Photo Awards are part of the Combined Authority’s 2025 Cultural Events Programme where six diverse groups from across the Liverpool City Region told their stories, and the stories of the areas they live in, with the help of professional socially engaged photographers in residence. ‘Photo Here’ created a unique snapshot of their lives and communities including those of refugees and asylum seekers, members of the LGBTQI+ community, D/deaf and BSL users.
Winners and commended submissions will make up a physical exhibition at the gallery, but an image from every entry will also be featured in the Digital Window Gallery exhibition.
In addition, the outside walls of the gallery will also see a selection of photography from the ‘Photo Here’ residencies.
Find out more about the Liverpool City Region Photo Awards here.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The opportunity to explore science outside the classroom became a reality for 70 pupils from Kingsway Primary School in Wirral, as they got the chance to visit Eureka! Science + Discovery in Seacombe.
Interactive exhibits focusing on how the human body works, the wonders of nature and exploring behind the walls, floors and ceiling of our homes were big highlights, along with a show all about robots!
Delivered under the Combined Authority’s Social Value Framework, which ensures contractors create benefits for local residents and communities that go beyond the construction site, Warbreck Integrated Services has joined forces with Eureka! for an educational outreach programme that will see 15 schools from across the region visit the museum.
Warbreck, the main contractor delivering the Woodside Ferry Terminal refurbishment, is funding the cost of the visits, ensuring young learners can dive headfirst into the Seacombe-based attraction’s entertaining and informative exhibits.
It’s hoped the hands-on learning will help foster an early interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects for the city’s next generation – and might just inspire some future engineers to go on to work on other major infrastructure schemes in our region.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, portfolio holder for Education and Skills at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority said:
“This is a fantastic example of the benefits of our social value framework, ensuring that contractors working on our projects give something back to the community.
“Children from across the city region will benefit hugely from these visits to Eureka!, where they will learn about a wide range of subjects in a fun and interactive environment.
“Hopefully, we’ll inspire some future engineers who will go on to work on our major schemes in the future, where they can continue the cycle of giving something back to the community.”
The Woodside Ferry Terminal is currently undergoing a major £9m plus refurbishment as part of the 20-year Mersey Ferries strategy and Wirral Council’s ‘Masterplan’ for the regeneration of the Woodside area.
Another major Mersey Ferries investment milestone was reached just last week when the Royal Daffodil, the first new Mersey Ferry in 60 years, took to the water for the first time.
Tom Williams, Managing Director of Warbreck Integrated Services Ltd, said:
We are incredibly proud to stand behind and support Eureka! Science + Discovery, and it’s educational outreach programme, as part of the Woodside Ferry Terminal refurbishment. This opportunity allows us to support the local community and the next generation in a meaningful way.
“STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths) are fundamental to the economic growth and future prosperity of the Liverpool and Wirral regions, and we hope these visits are enjoyable and inspire young people to learn more about this.”
Find out more about Eureka! Science + Discovery here.
Find all the latest Wirral news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool’s very own In Demand Radio and In Demand Decades are releasing a new festive single, “Crackers for Christmas” to raise money for Alder Hey Children’s Charity.
The whole team from both stations have joined forces in the studio to create a fun, feel-good track that captures the spirit of the season — and it’s all for an incredible cause.
“Crackers for Christmas” will be officially released on 5th December, with pre-orders available from 17th November. The accompanying music video, filmed at Sound House Recording Studios in Litherland, will premiere on 28th November. The campaign will run right through until Boxing Day.
Speaking about the campaign, a spokesperson for In Demand Radio said:
“Alder Hey is such an important part of our community, and we wanted to do something that not only raises money but spreads a bit of joy, too. The whole team have loved getting involved — and we can’t wait for everyone to hear Crackers for Christmas!”
Crackers for Christmas is a celebration of Christmas, from your live and local radio stations where talent, community spirit, and the power of music are used everyday to make a difference.
The most effective way to make a difference this Christmas is by donating directly to the campaign.
Listeners and supporters can do so by visiting the Crackers for Christmas website or by texting CRACKERS to 70480 to donate. Texts cost £5 plus your standard network rate.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
In the 1960s famous film it was The Spy Who Came in from the Cold – but at the Plaza in Waterloo, everyone is welcome to go in to get a break from the bitter weather.
From now until March next year, the popular Community Cinema is offering a cosy space for people to enjoy during the winter.
It’s hosting Warm Welcome Screenings once a month with the chance to enjoy a sandwich or snack, a hot drink and a great film – all for free.
Manager Michael Woods said:
“People in the community supported us and kept us going, and this gives us a chance to support them,”
“It seems only right that we should give something back.”
The Warm Welcome Screenings began a couple of years ago in 2023, started by Christine Physick, the then director of development and education at the picture house, and funded by Sefton Council as part of their Warm Spaces project.
The following year it was funded through Sefton Council for Voluntary Service and, for 2025, The Plaza put aside funds donated by The Rotary Club and others to ensure it could continue.
“We really want to keep it going,” adds Michael. “As well as the chance for people to enjoy a snack and a drink, and a film, it breaks up the day. It gives people somewhere to go and someone to talk to.
“It’s a chance for people to chat and socialise, especially for those who might feel isolated in these colder months.”
Warm Welcome Screenings have already been held for October and November, but it’s the ones from December to March that usually get more visitors, says Michael, when the weather is at its worst.
Films scheduled to be shown (although they are subject to change) are:
* December 2: The Holiday
* January 6: Bridget Jones’s Diary
* February 3: Leap Year
* March 3: Mamma Mia!
Doors of the Crosby North Road cinema open on each of those days at 1pm and the film starts at 1.30pm.
Everyone is welcome and there’s no need to book, just turn up.
Micheal said:
“It’s aimed at anyone who would like some company, to see a film, and who might not be able to afford to have the heating on all day at home,”
“We get the sandwiches from Hampers in St John’s Road so it’s a chance for us to support a local business too.
“It would be nice to see as many people here as possible for the next screening. The Plaza is a cinema by the people, for the people, and we look forward to welcoming them.”
Book your tickets on the Plaza Community Cinema website.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas on our website.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Christmas at BOXPARK Liverpool is set to be merry and bright with a calendar full of festive events.
With a special Christmas Eve breakfast complete with Santa and the Grinch, there will be a naughty and nice list but where will you land? Join BOXPARK Liverpool and get into the festive spirit with a delicious brekkie plus plenty of entertainment from 11am-1pm. There will also be a magical grotto that’s complete with a cosy fire, hot chocolate and Christmas arts and crafts.
Tickets are £15 and include breakfast for one child and one adult, plus a children’s goody bag. Options to purchase adult-only tickets (£10) and child-only tickets (£5).
The award-winning venue also has lots of exciting events throughout November and December to get everyone geared up for Christmas.
ICEBOX, BOXPARK Liverpool’s winter spectacular, will open on Monday 17th November, complete with an upgraded ice rink that’s bigger and even more magical, plus a fire pit to toast marshmallows, festive food specials, winter warming drinks and lots of festive entertainment.
Perfect for the whole family, tickets for ICEBOX are available to purchase now, with skating sessions filling up fast! Santa will also be skating every Sunday for Wonderland on Ice.
ICEBOX is open from Monday 17th November until Sunday 11th January.
A special Christmas-themed K Pop Demon Hunters party experience is also coming to BOXPARK Liverpool on Sunday, 14th December, for the ultimate family festive day out. This party will feature big pop bangers, interactive crowd moments and is a huge celebration of music, magic and festive fun for all ages. Tickets are available for two film showings; the first is 2.30-5pm and the second is 5.30-8pm.
When it comes to adults-only events, BOXPARK Liverpool is the perfect place to celebrate. The Big Xmas Kick Off gets everything going on Friday 28th November with festive bingo, Christmas games and everyone’s favourite festive tunes, this one’s guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Then on 6th, 12th, 13th and 19th December, BOXPARK plays host to the Big Xmas Office Party. Ideal for smaller groups who want to soak up the lively atmosphere, to larger parties looking for a party that includes everything you could possibly want from delicious food to drinks and only the best entertainment, the Big Xmas Office Parties are in high demand with live music keeping guests entertained all night long! Packages start from just £35pp with food and drinks included!
Think you know Christmas? You can put your knowledge to the test at BOXPARK Liverpool’s Big Fat Xmas Quizbox that’s hosted by Love Island’s very own Harrison Solomon on Thursday, 11th December. A festive take on your traditional pub quiz, if Christmas is your thing, this one’s for you!
BOXPARK Liverpool is open to everyone… even your furry friends, and its Doggy Grotto will take centre stage on Sunday 21st December from 11am-2.30pm. Pooches can meet Father Christmas, take a paw-fect photo in Santa’s grotto photobooth, plus they’ll receive a festive drink and doggy goody bag!
Joel Lee, General Manager at BOXPARK Liverpool, explained:
“Our Christmas calendar is packed with exciting events including family-friendly celebrations and adults-only bottomless brunches, quizzes and big office parties.
“ICEBOX opens on Monday 17th November and it’s the ultimate way to get into the festive spirit with our upgraded ice rink and winter wonderland that’s complete with a firepit and marshmallow toasting, right in the heart of the city centre. Add in our festive food specials and winter warming drinks and you’ve got the perfect eat, drink, play experience, Christmas style! We can’t wait to welcome you all across the festive season at BOXPARK Liverpool.”
Find out more on the BOXPARK Liverpool website.
Find what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool City Council has awarded Bolt, Europe’s largest micromobility platform, a contract to operate shared scooters and e-bikes from early 2026.
The new service, replacing existing provider Voi, will see 2,000 scooters and 100 e-bikes deployed across Liverpool, operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It will cover the entire city, with areas such as Speke and Garston set to have scooters for the first time.
This agreement marks the company’s first UK scooter launch.
Bolt is working closely with the Council to ensure the service is safe, well-integrated, and supports the city’s transport and sustainability goals. Expanding the city’s scooter and e-bike offering is part of the Council’s aim to provide active travel options, which are beneficial for both health and the environment.
Research has found that almost two thirds of all journeys in the city are made by car, which generates almost half a million tonnes of CO₂emissions each year. Scooters offer a sustainable alternative and can be accessed easily through the use of an app.
Following the introduction of its e-bikes in London in August 2025, Bolt’s expansion to Liverpool represents a major milestone in its UK growth and commitment to providing more sustainable urban transport options.
Almost half of Bolt’s e-bike and scooter trips around the world are to and from bus and train stations, showing how Liverpool’s service can reduce reliance on private cars.
The scooters and e-bikes come equipped with industry-leading safety and parking features, including:
- Maximum speed limit of 15.5 mp/h for both scooters and e-bikes
- In-app cognitive reaction test to prevent drunk riding
- AI-based photo validation and geofencing to ensure proper parking
Users must be 18 or over and, and those wanting to ride scooters must hold a valid driving licence.
Bolt’s AI-powered parking system analyses user-submitted photos at the end of each trip, providing real-time feedback and issuing fines for incorrect parking. Each user will also have a ‘rider score’ to encourage responsible vehicle riding and parking.
Bolt’s technology-led approach has already proven effective elsewhere: in Stockholm, improper parking dropped by 69%, and Bureau Veritas audits in Brussels found that Bolt users parked correctly almost 100% of the time.
All vehicles will be maintained by local Bolt teams and monitored via GPS to ensure safety, availability, and reliability. These measures are designed to keep pavements clear and ensure Bolt contributes positively to Liverpool’s streets.
Private scooters remain illegal on public roads, while using the vehicles on pavements or with two riders are also against the law.
Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity said:
“Scooters and e-bikes are a fantastic way to travel around the city. They’re safe, they encourage active travel, and they offer a sustainable option that could reduce the amount of traffic on our streets.
“We are looking forward to working closely with Bolt and we’re very pleased that more people in Liverpool than ever before will have easy access to this option. It’s really encouraging that our work with Bolt puts measures in place that encourage responsible use and discourage incorrect parking.
“The service will also operate 24/7 which will assist shift workers and those in the night-time economy who need to travel when there is no public transport. ”
John Buckley, Bolt’s Head of Micromobility for the UK, said:
“With over 230,000 scooters and e-bikes operating in more than 270 cities across Europe, we’ve seen how micromobility can encourage environmentally friendlier travel, reduce car traffic, and connect people to public transport. Launching micromobility in Liverpool, and our first ever scooter service in the UK, is a key step in Bolt’s commitment to building better urban transport.”
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool weightlifters will be putting themselves through a series of super-tough challenges in a drive to collect toys for kids in Alder Hey over Christmas.
Members of Taylor’s Strength Training in the city centre will go through different power tests on the afternoon of December 20, the last Saturday before Christmas.
To take part in Strength for Kids: Christmas Lift-Off, or just to watch the lifters in competition, organisers are asking for donations of new, unwrapped toys and gifts.
They’ll then be delivered to Alder Hey in time to be given out around wards on the big day.
Gym owner Danny Taylor says they’re hoping to collect as many toys as possible while lifters tackle everything from deadlifts to bodyweight challenges, as well as a few specifically adapted for the festive season.
He explains:
“We usually do events throughout the year at the gym where people pay an entry fee, we host powerlifting competitions and Olympic weightlifting competitions.
“We also do a Christmas-themed lift-off for members but in previous years it’s been an in-house community event, nothing bigger than that.
“This time we wanted to do something more and try and give back to conclude the year, so we decided to open up the gym, have a family-friendly afternoon and ask for donations of an unwrapped gift or toy for one of the kids instead of an entry fee.”
Everyone competing in the Strength for Kids: Christmas Lift-Off will have a variety of physical challenges to choose from, inspired by the different weights disciplines practised every day at the gym.
“All of our coaches have their own speciality and they’re going to each put forward a challenge to members and anyone else who’d like to join in, even if they just want to have a go for fun.
“People do get super-competitive in pushing themselves, and we have got some who lift at very high levels, but mostly we’re the in-betweeners; just average Joes who want to get stronger, feel better and do some good in the community.”
He said:
Danny says there will be challenges involving men and women, and all levels. “Size doesn’t matter, it’s more about the skill. “Smaller lighter people who are at the top of their skill level are able to move with such proficiency.
“It’s going to be an event that’s accessible to everyone and as well as the regular weight exercises we’re planning to do some Christmas themed ones too.
“We already have a sled that you can push and pull so we’re going to decorate that as Santa’s sleigh, load it with weights and then test people on our 13-metre indoor track run.”
The Strength for Kids: Christmas Lift-Off will be at Taylor’s Strength Training independent gym on Old Haymarket, off Dale Street, on Saturday December 20 from around midday to about 2pm. If you want to go along to take part, or watch and support, don’t forget to bring an unwrapped toy or gift for Alder Hey.
You can find out more here.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Future Yard in Birkenhead will host its annual sustainability and climate-focused event, POP3, powered by Ecotricity Business.
The event takes place on 20 November and will bring together change-makers, cultural leaders, and sustainability experts for a day of debate, collaboration and innovation – exploring the power of culture in the quest for climate justice.
Coinciding with the UN organised COP Climate Conference, POP3 will see venue owners, business leaders, creatives, academics and community professionals unite to share ideas and shape a greener, fairer future for the cultural industries. The day’s programme features expert panels, interactive roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities designed to spark collaboration across the UK’s grassroots and community culture sectors.
Attendees will include representatives from nationally significant arts organisations, leaders in the green transition, and local artists and businesses passionate about sustainability and environmental action.
Future Yard say sustainability sits at the heart of its ethos with this being the third edition of the POP conference series, following the launch of the venue’s Sustainability Roadmap.
In 2024, Future Yard announced its ambition to achieve operational net zero by 2030 and full net zero by 2035. At POP3, Future Yard will unveil an updated Roadmap, detailing the next steps in its journey toward those targets.
The daytime conference will run from 11am to 6pm across Future Yard’s Live Room and workshop spaces, with delegate and audience tickets now available. The conference will be followed by an evening live show headlined by acclaimed artist Anna B Savage. Doors open at 8pm, with tickets available separately.
James Gillaspy, Sustainability Lead at Future Yard says:
“POP3 is about action through collaboration,”
“We believe culture has the power to lead the charge toward climate justice, and this event is a celebration of the people making that change happen.
”Green industrialist and founder of Ecotricity, Dale Vince said: “We worked with Liverpool City last year as they became the world’s first UN Climate Accelerator City, and this latest collaboration with Future Yard will help show that live events can thrive while reducing their environmental impact. It’s ‘another way’ for the music industry.
You can book tickets for the event and find out more here.
Get the latest music news for Liverpool City Region HERE.
Upton Road Social will proudly continue the legacy grown by the Houlihan family as they take over the venue, whilst employing all staff and keeping drinks prices the same.
Coopers Townhouse in Liverpool’s city centre, The Book Bar & Eatery in West Derby, John Street Social in Droylsden and now Upton Road Social in Birkenhead all have one key element in common – their profound sense of community built over the decades. This is what has brought Jonathan Yates to invest in his fourth venture, Upton Road Social, taking over the storied destination in Birkenhead.
Jonathan explains:
“It was originally known in the 1970s and 80s as Eric’s Club and Blythe Hall. The premises was then taken over by the Houlihan family in April 1988 and then it was just the upstairs of the building, operating as a traditional variety club with weekend entertainment. In the mid 90s, the club expanded to take over the shop units underneath, including a pet shop, butchers and engineers, combining them all into a lounge bar.
Since then, Houlies as it became known, has been a fixture in Claughton Village providing a warm, safe welcome across generations for the community. As with all of our venues, and especially Coopers and John Street Social, our focus is to maintain the existing traditions, community and service, whilst improving and augmenting where we can. And also crucially, to make sure these places are vibrant and fun for all.
So for the many locals who love Houlies, the Upton Road Social is very much a continuation of what they already know and frequent.”
The grand room upstairs is a magnificent concert room that will need investment to restore it back to its original grandeur and longer term that is the intention. The immediate objective for Jonathan is to make the transition from the Houlihan family as seamless as possible, which means all of the staff are being retained and there will be the same drinks and prices, then from there Jonanthan will look for opportunities to improve the facilities.
Since the pandemic, the business has operated solely from the downstairs, seven days a week, 365 days a year as a member’s bar, with a wide selection of competitively priced drinks, sports on TV, an incredible jukebox and with numerous pool and darts teams making the venue their base. The Club operates a members’ scheme at just £5 per year and renewals will be opened up shortly.
Jonathan adds:
“With the lease expiring, the Houlihan family made the decision to hand over the reigns to me which is a huge honour. We know how important it is what they have created here over the years and for myself and my team we promise to continue the reputation for the wonderful community here and make improvements where possible, in the same way we have at Coopers and John Street Social. The family requested that the name retire with them, so I’ve renamed it the Upton Road Social based on its location and reflecting that, right now, it’s more of a social destination rather than a variety club. When we get to the point of re-opening the upstairs, I’m certain there will be lots of variety club type of programming up there.”
Keep up to date with Upton Road Social on Instagram.
Find all the latest Wirral news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
We can’t wait to celebrate the city heroes who make us proud in the first ever Guide Liverpool Heroes 2025 awards.
For the last 10 years we’ve been sharing so many amazing stories of the individuals, fundraisers, charities and businesses who make our city region so great.
And, to mark our landmark birthday this year, it’s time to honour them.
The Guide Liverpool HEROES 2025 awards, brought to you by Liverpool Cruise Port and in Partnership with San Carlo Restaurants, will be held at the Titanic Hotel on Friday, November 21.
The awards will focus on everything from community projects, charities and emergency services to sports heroes and influencers, with four special awards – one to be revealed only on the night.
It’s going to be an amazing evening and, until then, let us introduce you to the charities of the year and the fundraising warriors who have made it to the final…
Charity of the Year finalists
Claire House Children’s Hospice
There when they’re needed most, Claire House Children’s Hospice helps seriously and terminally ill children live life to the full by creating wonderful experiences, while bringing back a sense of normality to family life. By providing specialist nursing and end of life care, as well as emotional support, Claire House helps families through some of the toughest times of their lives.
Clatterbridge Cancer Charity
Clatterbridge Cancer Charity is dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families, funding life-saving research, treatment and care across Merseyside and Cheshire. Through donations, it ensures Clatterbridge Cancer Centre stays at the forefront of care, with new ways to treat the disease, bringing cancer care closer to patients’ homes and being the first in the UK to offer certain clinical trials.
New Beginnings – Improving Lives
Founded in 2019 by Michelle Roach, a former NHS worker with lived in experience of mental health and cancer, New Beginnings – Improving Lives was established to support and signpost people who were unable to access services. Since then, the grassroots charity has grown and is transforming communities, offering everything from free boxing and food support to vital wellbeing and family services.
North West Cancer Research
North West Cancer Research funds pioneering local research, education and community projects – tackling cancer rates in our region and improving lives for generations to come. Since 2000, North West Cancer Research has funded more than £55 million of world-class research and although it focuses on cancers most likely to affect people here, it shares its findings and works with the world.
Sahir House
Sahir House is Liverpool’s oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity, providing vital support, advocacy and community for people across the city region. In this, its 40th anniversary year, it also stepped in to ensure that ‘Liverpool’s Pride’ would go ahead with a new name and new hope.
Tom Harrison House
Tom Harrison House is the UK’s only veteran-specific addiction recovery centre, saving lives and supporting ex-service personnel and their families. As well as drop-in breakfast sessions, a wellbeing activities programme and accommodation and move-on support, it offers a 12-week residential programme.
Fundraising Hero Finalists
Jack Dowling
Blues performance coach Jack Dowling set himself the tough challenge to undertake 26 marathons in 26 weeks in honour of his late brother Tom who died from bowel cancer. Jack completed the marathons and smashed his original fundraising target of £32,500 – the cost of one Macmillan Cancer Support nurse for 26 weeks – to collect more than £72,000. On October 1 last year– Tom’s birthday – he decided to run 26 minutes every hour for 26 hours taking his total to more than £100,000.
Olly Harrison
Farmer Olly has raised hundreds of thousands with his epic tractor convoys and charity campaigns, rallying and cheering communities to support North West Air Ambulance. This year too Olly, who has a farm in Tarbock, revealed he has now raised £100,000 by doing birthday shout-outs on the bumper of his tractor.
Alex Rigby
Alex became the first person to run to all 69 Merseyrail stations in just over 24 hours, covering a staggering 109 miles – the equivalent of four marathons! He raised £56,000 for Kirkdale-based Centre 56 which offers free specialist nursery care and support for children and their families who’ve suffered domestic abuse, trauma or crisis … and sparked a city-wide movement of kindness.
Nicola Carragher
Mum of two Nicola is passionate about children’s health and their futures, and her support of Alder Hey goes back over decades. To raise vital funds for the city’s much-loved children’s hospital of which she is a patron, Nicola – wife of former LFC defender and pundit Jamie – set herself an ambitious challenge to run all seven world major marathons consecutively within 12 months. And she did it!
Ged Finnegan
Ged did his first 26-mile Kate’s Coastal Walk in 2018, marking the 20th anniversary of his daughter’s death at the age of just 13. Since then the retired teacher from Woolton has raised more than £100,000 for Zoe’s Place – now Little Lights Liverpool Baby Hospice – showing incredible dedication to supporting babies and families in need and vowing to carry on ‘to my dying day’.
Phill Hayward
The Wirral PE teacher ran a charity 10K every day for a year – and to make it more interesting, he undertook the epic challenge in bare feet! Phill raised thousands for the Alzheimer’s Society, running in rain, shine, snow, ice, and storms to complete the equivalent distance of Liverpool to Cairo.
Neil Atherton
The Arriva instructor from Widnes has walked countless bus routes over the last five years to raise vital funds and collect donations for local food banks. So far Neil has raised a total of £29,000 and notched up a distance of around 510 miles with more challenges to go at the end of the year.
Find out more about The Guide Liverpool Heroes here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
A new mural will be unveiled on Mathew Street celebrating 100 figures from music who have shaped Liverpool’s cultural heritage, past, present and future.
From The Beatles to OMD, The Teardrop Explodes to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, the mural is designed and created by artist Joe Venning and is funded by SP Energy Networks and The Beatles Story via The Beatles Legacy Group, and facilitated by Liverpool Business Improvement District.
Three artists were shortlisted after a callout for ideas for the wall on Mathew Street, a few steps from The Cavern and Eric’s, two music venues that have shaped both Liverpool’s music history, and the world’s.
Wirral based artist Joseph Venning has already created one mural in Liverpool, a 40m wall at ACC Liverpool celebrating the city’s sporting, artistic, comedic and dramatic talent.
This new mural at Mathew Street is 15m wide and pictures the 100 musicians as an audience, with Mathew St as the stage itself. The mural itself will cover the exterior of SP Energy Network’s substation wall
The musicians included in the mural range from Sir Paul McCartney and Ian Broudie, to Louisa Roach, Abi Harding, Mick Head, Carol Decker, Andy McCluskey, Holly Johnson, Jayne Casey, Chris Amoo, Mike McGear and Kingsize Taylors. The bands featured include Red Rum Club, Camelphat, Gerry and the Pacemakers, The Wombats, Dead or Alive, The Icicle Works and The Swinging Blue Jeans.
Artist Joe Venning says he wants people to make connections through the artists features, from dance music and disco :
“The musicians in the crowd scene are arranged in roughly chronological order with the contemporary artists at the front and the Merseybeat era bands further back, to form a timeline of sorts.
Whilst painting I started seeing connections between bands I hadn’t noticed before. The lineage of indie is pretty obvious from The Cavern bands to Jamie Webster via The Las, The Farm, The Zutons etc. You can also trace the family tree of dance music from CamelPhat back through the original 90’s Cream DJs and The KLF, and then through earlier electronica acts like OMD and further still into Disco with The Real Thing. I hope viewers will start seeing these kinds of connections too.
You don’t see many murals where members of Atomic Kitten rub shoulders with members of Carcass!”
Scott Mathieson, Director of Network Planning and Regulation at SP Energy Networks, says:
“Liverpool’s music has echoed around the world and this mural brings that energy right back to the heart of the city. Our substation has long been part of the fabric of Mathew Street, on the doorstep of Liverpool’s most iconic live music venues. Mathew Street is at the heart of Liverpool’s creative community and we’re proud to celebrate the cultural icons that helped shape Liverpool’s spirit and inspire generations.
“It’s been a pleasure working with Liverpool BID, The Beatles Legacy Group and the artist Joseph Venning to ensure the environment is reflective of the culture and ambition of Liverpool at a time when we’re investing record amounts into the local electricity network infrastructure.”
Peter Hooton, Chair of The Beatles Legacy Group, who have co-funded the mural, and founding member of The Farm, says:
”We are really excited about this brilliant new mural which brings to life Liverpool’s musical heritage, in the heart of the city. Tourists flock to Mathew St because of its bars and clubs but also because of its history, so it is fitting that it is located near to The Cavern and Eric’s, the venues that shaped much of that history. People will undoubtedly spend time pointing out the artists on the mural that have contributed so much to the culture of the city.”
Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool Business Improvement District, says:
“We are delighted to be supporting this mural, which puts the legacy and impact of our city’s music centre stage. Mathew Street’s musical heritage is one of the reasons tourists visit from across the world. The Cavern Quarter is such a distinctive and vital part of our city, the artworks throughout it are part of a visual storytelling, showcasing why the spirit of this place is such a passionate one”.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The All You Read is Love campaign ran by North West marketing agency, Agent, is looking to support local community groups through donations of new books.
As part of their annual All You Read is Love campaign, Agent, the award-winning full-service marketing agency with studios in Liverpool and Manchester, has donated over £65,000 worth of books to over 5,000 children who need them most, while best-selling author and current Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce has also backed the initiative.
All You Read is Love is a cherished annual tradition for Agent, with support from global book distributor Publiship. For the first time in 2025, the campaign is also backed by multi-award-winning author and screenwriter Frank Cottrell-Boyce and the National Literacy Trust (NLT).
After NLT research found that just one-in-five children read in their free time, Agent is donating thousands of books to ensure as many children and young people as possible wake up to a gift on Christmas morning, to start their reading journeys.
In support of the campaign, author Frank Cottrell-Boyce, author of Millions and Cosmic, said:
“Alongside Agent and my own Reading Rights: Books Build a Brighter Future campaign with BookTrust, I once again call on national and local leaders to come together and make the magic of reading a part of daily life for every child. A book is for life, not just for Christmas!”
Paul Corcoran, Agent CEO and founder, said:
“We want to work with as many incredible community-facing organisations as possible to gift brand-new books to the children across our region who need them most. We’ll be donating and collecting books from our partners – we need our community organisations to help get them into the hands of children this Christmas.
“All You Read is Love is more important than ever, allowing children to start their reading journey, opening worlds of adventure, development and opportunity.
“This year, we are determined to make it a Christmas to remember for eager young minds. Every child should wake up to a gift under the tree, and if you can help us spread the magic of reading, we want to hear from you!”
You can support the All You Read is Love campaign here.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
“Scousers you’re brilliant – and I can’t wait to serve you some spuds!
There’s no denying the excitement of Spud Man – aka Ben Newman – as he prepares to head to Liverpool this weekend to team up with the city’s own jacket potato entrepreneur, John the Spud.
After a successful summer pop-up at the Bus Yard in Crosby, the TikTok spud supremo is setting up his van at the Christmas Market outside St George’s Hall, having turned down London to take on Liverpool.
Sky-high costs and proximity to his Staffordshire home have played their part in his decision to swap the capital for Liverpool and spend the next six weeks here. But there’s another reason too: “We just love Scousers!” says Ben.
“Me and the team had such a good time at the Bus Yard.
“We had people queueing for three hours and they still had a smile on their faces when they got to the van. There was bantering and we had a good laugh – and that’s what it’s all about.
“We didn’t have one bad customer. People were so lovely.”
Ben, whose fans include A-list celebrities like Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, was originally due to sell his spuds at the famous Christmas Market in Hyde Park, until a phone call from the city changed his mind.
Now he’s looking forward to a festive stint in the city – and getting to know it a little better.
He said:
“I only got to see a bit of the city when I was here last time, so I can’t wait to see more,”
“Andy from the Bus Yard has promised to take me around the local spots and John the Spud’s a proper Scouser, so I’m sure he’ll have a few ideas of where to go too.
“We are staying right in the middle of the city, so I want to be a proper tourist and do all the fun stuff, like the Beatles tour and things – if I get the time.
“And I love food – so I want to eat my way around Liverpool.”
Ben, 41, is planning to be in Liverpool four days a week, leaving 18-year-old son Dylan – known as Lil Spud – and the rest of his team in Liverpool seven days a week, while he returns to his Tamworth pitch for the other days.
With so many other stalls selling festive fayre, Ben plans to stick to his regular menu, although he says there might be a few seasonal specials: “We might put a bit of turkey on.”
And he adds:
“I’ve never tried scouse, so 100% it would be great if someone brought down some scouse so we could stick it on a spud!”
Another thing is certain too: “If it goes well in Liverpool this Christmas, our visit to Liverpool could be an annual event.
“I never count my chickens, but I am hoping we’ll be busy, and it’ll be great to spend time in the city.
“I’m looking forward to linking up with John the Spud, learning more about Liverpool, and serving loads of lovely Scousers with the humble jacket spud.”
The only problem Ben can foresee, is the language barrier.
He laughs:
“When we were in Crosby, we obviously got a lot of Scouse customers which was great … except that I’m from the Midlands and originally from the South, and I sometimes struggle to understand a really strong Scouse accent.”
So is there anything we can do to help Spud Man? “Yes please, just speak really slowly for me.”
Find out more about Spud Man here.
Find all the latest Liverpool news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Sefton Council is launching the second stage of public consultation for the proposed improvements for Southport Promenade.
Starting on Monday 17th November, the consultation will show the developed proposals since the previous consultation. The proposals will support access to the Marine Events Lake Centre (MLEC) and the refurbished pier when they open.
The first stage of the public consultation on the promenade improvements was held during February and March this year. Using feedback from that first stage to make changes.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills said:
“During the last consultation, many concerns were raised around the current pedestrian crossings on the promenade.
“We want to improve road safety for the many people visiting the waterfront. The future improvements are aimed at reducing the risk of collisions in an area with high pedestrian footfall, whilst addressing some of the concerns raised. Our aim is to improve the safety of all roads users when travelling to our tourist attractions.
“We want people to visit the MLEC and the pier, and it just makes sense to ensure the route people will take to go there is made safer and look nicer with planting.”
The Council wants residents, business owners, schools, visitors, and the transport and tourism sectors to have their say. The scheme is funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, as part of the Transport for City Region allocation from the government, which aims to improve local transport networks.
Sefton Council is hosting two drop-in sessions at The Atkinson in Southport. This gives an opportunity for people to speak with the Council officers and designers in-person to offer feedback and ask questions about the scheme. The sessions will be on Tuesday 18th November from 10am to 1pm, and on Thursday 27th November from 1pm to 4pm.
This consultation, which will help shape the detailed design of this scheme, ends on Sunday 11th January. There will be further engagement in the future as the designs and phasing take shape.
The Council held a consultation on their Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan this year, from 23rd July to 15th September. This consultation was on a broader policy document covering all of Sefton. It aimed to help choose routes that are a priority to develop active travel in the borough.
Find out more on the Sefton Council website.
Find all the latest Southport news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Christmas comes to the Scarsbrick’s Oak Theatre next month and the cast for it’s first ever pantomime has been unveiled.
Coronation Street star Calum Lill plays the evil Fleshcreep in Jack and the Beanstalk which runs at the theatre at Scarisbrick Hall near Ormskirk from Saturday 13 – Wednesday 24 December.
Tickets are on sale now priced from £14.
The lavish panto is presented by Anton Benson Productions Ltd.
Calum, who played the Street’s bad boy Joel Deering, will be joined on the Oak Theatre stage by legendary pantomime dame David Dale who appears as Dame Trott, real-life couple Danny Childs and Suzanne Fulton as Jack Trott and Princess Jill, Mary Shanker as Mary the Fairy and Michael Lawless as King Bling.
When Jack Trott swaps the family cow for a bag of beans, his mum isn’t best pleased. But when the beans sprout…and keep growing, they lead to the tallest of adventures in the clouds.
Can Jack outwit the wily Fleshcreep and rescue his sweetheart Princess Jill from the clutches of the giant? Or will he fee-fi-fo fumble his chance to be a hero? There’s only one way to find out.
Audiences can expect two-and-a-half hours of toe-tapping song and dance, colourful costumes, fantastic sets – encompassing the venue’s 4k digital wall, and stunning special effects all wrapped up in a hilarious laugh-a-minute script.
Calum Lill is best known for playing Coronation Street villain Joel Deering who met a sticky end at the heart of a dramatic whodunit which kept soap viewers on the edge of their seats. His other screen credits include PC Carlton Smith in Hollyoaks and roles in Doctors and Holby City. His stage credits include The Sociable Plover at London’s Old Red Lion. And he returns to the role of Fleshcreep after playing him last Christmas in Bournemouth.
Meanwhile when he is not causing drama on screen, he loves bringing stories to life on stage and helping other actors through his coaching company Screen Ready.
David Dale plays Dame Trott and also directs. Panto royalty David has worked with all the major pantomime production companies and has appeared in more than 25 seasonal shows as well as directing six pantos. His highlights include pantomimes at the London Palladium and Birmingham Hippodrome among many other leading venues. In 2024 he was nominated for a prestigious UK Pantomime Award alongside fellow ‘Ugly Sister’ James Holmes for their double act in Cinderella at the Buxton Opera House.
His other stage credits over a four-decade career include The Rocky Horror Show and Women Behind Bars in the West End. His screen credits include EastEnders, Father Ted (playing a nun) and The Sins.
Danny Childs is Jack Trott. ALRA North-trained Danny is an actor and filmmaker. Previous panto appearances include Wishee Washee in Aladdin, Potty Pierre in Beauty and the Beast and Simple Simon in Jack and the Beanstalk, Buttons in Cinderella and Rafi in Rapunzel. Further stage credits include The Wish, That Sketch Show, Farmboy, The Snow Queen, and Ugly Duckling for Tutti Frutti Productions in the UK and on a US tour. Away from the stage he is co-owner of independent filmmakers Squad Four Productions.
Suzanne Fulton plays Princess Jill and is also the show’s choreographer. Suzanne is a Mancunian actress, choreographer and producer who trained at the Bristol Old Vic and Manchester School of Acting. Her previous panto appearances include the Fairy in Sleeping Beauty alongside Vicki Michelle, and Aladdin. Other stage credits include Silent Cicada at Liverpool Playhouse, The Wish and The Yellow Dress. Suzanne also has her own company, Parallel Productions, championing women’s voices from the north and whose productions have included Parallel Lives at the Oldham Coliseum. She recently starred in her first full-length feature film, Derelict.
Mary the Fairy is played by Mary Shanker. The Manchester-born actor, musician and singer-songwriter trained at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA), and her panto credits include Cinderella last Christmas with Katie Price and Kerry Katona, Beauty and the Beast alongside Les Dennis and Jack and the Beanstalk. Her other stage credits include A Christmas Carol and Simon Says, the latter produced by the All Day Breakfast Theatre Company of which Mary is a founding member.
And Michael Lawless appears as King Bling. Actor, singer and writer Michael, who trained at The Expressive Arts and Media Academy in Liverpool, returns to Jack and the Beanstalk after appearing in the tall tale in Dublin last Christmas. Further stage credits include The Insufferable Loneliness of Jeremy and Scuttlers, both at Manchester’s Royal Exchange.
The Oak Theatre is a stunning new state-of-the-art 390-seat venue situated in the sweeping grounds of the award-winning Scarisbrick Hall School.
It champions bold storytelling and boundary-pushing performances, bringing together visionary creatives and engaged audiences to shape the future of live entertainment.
The theatre has partnered with veteran panto producer Anton Benson Productions to present its first professional pantomime on the stage. ABP produces successful Christmas pantomimes for five other venues across the North West in addition to providing Easter pantos for more than 15 venues across the UK each spring.
The company has worked with many big-name stars including Les Dennis, John Thomson, Kerry Katona, Mark Labbett, Su Pollard and Basil Brush.
Oak Theatre general manager Tom Cain said:
“Excitement is really building here at the Oak Theatre with just a month to go before we welcome the first audiences to our first spectacular pantomime. Seeing our fabulous, talented cast in full costume has really got us in the Christmas spirit, and I can’t wait for opening night – I know theatregoers of all ages are going to be in for a real treat.”
Book tickets on the Oak Theatre website.
Find out what else is on across Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Bootle is set to sparkle this Christmas and New year, with a host of festive events for families and residents to enjoy.
On Saturday 15th November, Bootle Strand will host a Christmas celebration from 12pm to 5pm in the Lower Mall. Visitors can look forward to mini pantomimes on stage, a performance from Attitude Dance and a K-Pop artist and there will be inflatables, a pop-up grotto, a snow globe, and festive characters.
Children will have the chance to get creative with Christmas crafts, including making decorations, creating reindeer dust, and writing letters to Santa with Mrs Claus. There will also be a small selection of stalls, free hot chocolate, and festive games to enjoy.
In Another Place presents a brand-new immersive experience, The Secret at Christmas, running on Saturday 22nd and 29th November. Families will join a quirky scientist on a 45-minute journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. Held in The Castle next to TJ Hughes, in the Strand Shopping Centre, this interactive walk-through is suitable for all ages and includes quiet performances and accessibility features.
Throughout December, families can visit the Bootle Strand Grotto, presented by In Another Place, which is also located in The Castle above the post office. This full Christmas experience features Tin Soldiers and Elves preparing for Santa’s arrival.
On Saturday 13th December, The Gateway Collective, in partnership with St Matthew’s Church, will host a cosy event themed around ‘Campfire Carols’. Families can gather around for festive singing, enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate, sparklers, and soak up the relaxed festive atmosphere.
Kingsley & Co, now located on Stanley Road, is inviting families to step into a world of festive imagination. Throughout the Christmas season, Kingsley & Co will host a programme of seasonal design and craft workshops, including a magical ‘Breakfast with the Snow Queen’ every Saturday morning from the Saturday 22nd November until Saturday 20th of December.
Community By Nature will bring even more magic to Bootle with a Christmas event at Queens Road Community Centre on Wednesday 10th December 6pm to 8pm and on Thursday 18th December from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. This special evening will feature Santa in his woodland grotto, offering a truly enchanting experience for local families.
Cllr Paulette Lappin, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment said:
“Although the major works going on at The Strand mean we won’t be able to put up a traditional tree this year, we are more than making up for that with this bumper programme of fantastic Christmas events.
“These exciting activities will help fill the town with festive spirit and provide wonderful opportunities for everyone to come together and celebrate.”
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse have announced a huge 2026 season, bringing the very best of theatre from the region and beyond to the city.
The new season features five compelling productions from some of the UK’s most exciting playwrights and creatives, continuing the theatres’ commitment to launching, establishing, and sustaining outstanding theatre talent. Highlights include the world premiere of Alexandra Wood’s The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher, a darkly funny and dangerously tense psychological thriller adapted from Hilary Mantel’s incendiary 2014 short story; Julia Cranney’s heartfelt Liverpool drama Attachment; a radical reimagining of Jekyll & Hyde by Evan Placey for Young Everyman Playhouse; a powerful new adaptation of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman; and the Everyman’s Rock ‘n’ Roll panto Beauty and The Beast.
The Everyman begins with an unmissable event, the world premiere of The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher, a darkly funny and dangerously tense psychological thriller created for Liverpool and the Everyman by writer Alexandra Wood and based on the short story by Hilary Mantel, first published in 2014.
John Young, who will direct the play, said:
“This isn’t just a play for people who have an opinion or strong feeling towards Maggie Thatcher. It’s about class, about lives that collide, people trying to understand, asking questions, coming together, and bridging that divide. I also think it’s a play about what happens when people feel they don’t have a voice, and how dangerous it is when they feel they don’t have anything to lose.
There are big questions about what Thatcher means to us now, and what she meant, and her relationship to a divided Britain. And of course, the relationship between Thatcher and Liverpool. One of the gorgeous things about the Everyman space is that it can do both intimate and ‘massiveness’ really well. I think that’s what this play does. You’re in a small flat with just two people, but the ideas and subjects they’re talking about are enormous. It’s about this flat, but it’s also about so much more.”
Attachment continues the theatre’s recent success in producing new stories, often with new artists, and exploring new ways of working. The fifth show in this strand, following Tell Me How It Ends, A Billion Times I Love You, and Our Town Needs A Nandos, Attachment allows The Everyman to create opportunities for graduates of its Young Everyman Playhouse programme and early career theatre makers from the Liverpool City Region, nurturing and empowering local talent that reaches nationally. Attachment is a heartfelt Liverpool drama developed alongside adoptive families from Merseyside. It explores parenthood, hope, adoption, and the ways relationships can grow.
Writer Julia Cranney said:
“I’m interested in the fact that there’s a ‘Disneyfied’ view of adoption. People who adopt are often put on a pedestal, but it’s so hard to be on a pedestal when you’re asking for help and nobody’s there on your level to help you. These people, who are so vulnerable, are picking up the pieces for an underfunded service because we assume that parents’ love will fill that gap. I hope Attachment goes some way to starting conversations around our system, and perhaps how it can be changed for the better.’”
Liverpool Everyman’s Young Everyman Playhouse (YEP) 18–25 Company presents Jekyll & Hyde, a daring and radically reimagined version of the gothic classic by award-winning writer Evan Placey. Dragging Stevenson’s tale into the digital age, this electrifying production rips through Victorian respectability. Not for the faint-hearted, expect violence, strong language, and plenty of fake blood as YEP’s emerging talents bring this dark, contemporary reinvention vividly to life.
In September, the Everyman revisits another timeless classic with Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman — one of theatre’s most enduring and powerful stories. A decade after last staging a Miller work, his “lost” film script The Hook, the Everyman return to the playwright whose words continue to resonate with audiences today. Death of a Salesman lays bare a family at breaking point and a man wrestling with his own sense of worth.
Already announced for the Everyman are two co-productions for Spring 2026. A major revival of Shelagh Stephenson’s Olivier Award-winning comedy The Memory of Water, a poignant yet hilariously sharp tale of three sisters reuniting for their mother’s funeral in 1996. Directed by Octagon Theatre Bolton’s Lotte Wakeham the cast includes Vicky Binns, Victoria Brazier, Helen Flanagan, and Polly Lister. While George Costigan and Matthew Kelly return to the Everyman stage where their careers began in the 1970s to take on Samuel Beckett’s timeless masterpiece Waiting for Godot, in a co-production with Octagon Theatre Bolton and Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre, directed by Dominic Hill.
The Liverpool Playhouse’s 2026 season promises a year of theatrical brilliance too, packed with beloved classics and bold new productions. Leading the lineup is Liverpool’s own Jodie Comer taking her final bow in Prima Facie. Audiences can also look forward to Inspector Morse, the return of The Woman in Black, imitating the dog’s innovative War of the Worlds, the RSC’s The Constant Wife, and powerful stage adaptations of The Shawshank Redemption and Single White Female.
New additions include the return of Emma Rice’s acclaimed company with Malory Towers, alongside thrilling new productions of Double Indemnity starring Mischa Barton and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. The Playhouse also continues to inspire younger audiences with family favourites The Dinosaur That Pooped, A Squash and a Squeeze, and ZOG, while comedy lovers can enjoy the ever-popular One Night With The Take That Experience, Mike Wozniak: The Bench, Sindhu Vee: Swanky, John Kearns: Tilting at Windmills and Maisie Adam: Whatsherface, a programme featuring some of the UK’s top stand-ups.
2026 will end in monstrous style as Liverpool’s theatres deliver two spectacular festive treats. At the Everyman, a brand-new Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto Beauty and the Beast — written by Joe Ward Munrow and directed by Nathan Powell — will take to the stage, while the Playhouse unleashes the cult classic Little Shop of Horrors, serving up catchy tunes, dark comedy and one very hungry plant for a monstrously good holiday season.
Nathan Powell, the Everyman & Playhouse’s Creative Director, said:
“This season celebrates everything we love about making theatre in Liverpool — bold, heartfelt, and rooted in the stories that connect us. From thrilling new writing to reimagined classics, and the joyful chaos of our Rock ‘n’ Roll panto, 2026 showcases the best of our city. Central to this is our Made in Liverpool programme, championing homegrown talent and ensuring that the stories, voices, and creativity of this city take centre stage. We want audiences to feel excited, challenged, and proud of the work being made here — because these are Liverpool’s theatre, and its energy runs through everything we do.”
As part of our continued commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, we’re proud to spotlight our homegrown productions under the ‘Made in Liverpool’ banner. For 2026, audiences can take advantage of a fantastic ticket offer: see The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher, Attachment, and Death of a Salesman for just £60, with a complimentary poster-gramme or memento for each performance. We continue to offer a broad range of ticket prices—from £11 to £61—to ensure theatre remains open to all. Our accessible performance programme includes relaxed, captioned, BSL-interpreted, and enhanced shows, the latter developed in collaboration with Extant to better serve visually impaired audiences.
Book your tickets on the Everyman & Playhouse Theatre website.
Find more theatre shows across Liverpool on our calendar.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
When classic car enthusiast Norman Shum decided to start a regular meet in Liverpool, he had no plans for it to be more than just a way for friends to chat about their shared passion.
He opened the car park of his family restaurant, the Chung Ku on the waterfront, on a Sunday morning for them to come and talk all things auto.
But 10 years on, Cars N Coffee has not only grown into a community with around 9,000 members, it’s raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities.
He said:
“At first it was an excuse for 20 geeky guys to catch up over a drink, then 20 of their friends came along and it kept doubling,” he says.
“Now we have around 1,000 people at each monthly event, owners and spectators, and we average 450 to 500 cars coming from Liverpool and all over the UK.
“It used to be car guys who came in the mornings and then they’d rush home at 12 but we encourage people to bring kids along, partners and dogs so it’s more of a family vibe.
“Everyone talks to each other, we get all types of vehicles and we try to break down any barriers and park and Rolls next to a Mini so there’s never any snobbery. Everyone loves cars, it doesn’t matter what you drive.”
Not only has the scale of Cars N Coffee changed over the decade, expanding to neighbouring business car parks, the fundraising side has become a huge part of what they do.
The idea of doing some charity work alongside the events was first suggested by one of Norman’s CNC co-founders, Charalene Lee.
“While we were growing in the first year we met with some charity organisers and saw where the money was going and the impact it was having.
“We started with big organisations which we randomly chose, but after a few years we asked people in the group to nominate local charities which they had personal connections to.
“We nominate a charity every month and invite the organisers and team come to the event to bucket shake so whatever is collected goes directly to each charity. We raise awareness within our community for the charity too, and we build up a connection between us.”
Over the years, CNC has fundraised for various Liverpool Lord Mayors’ charities, working with different Lord Mayor’s to support their chosen causes.
Through that they were put in contact with foodbanks across the city, and that’s become another way of helping the local community.
“Every summer and in December we do a foodbank collection where people bring food donations to a special event,” says Norman. “Car enthusiasts tend to hibernate their most precious cars in winter so instead of not doing a December meet we thought we’d do a food gathering.
“That’s got bigger and bigger over the past few years and now we have local businesses involved as well. Last year, for instance, Costco donated enough for 36,000 cups of hot chocolate to be given to homeless, veterans, pensioners …
“People do still bring cars but that’s not the main reason for this event. After we get all the food together, we load it all up and take it in convoy to three foodbanks: Micah in the city centre, Marylebone and Speke.
“Liverpool Scooter Club leads the convoy with about 30-50 scooters and we usually have around 15 vehicles full of food donations. We have vans, cars, trucks, anybody can join in – even a two-door convertible sports car can take a bag!
“Last year Micah created 600 parcels for the community from the food we donated and it’s emotional to see first-hand what the generosity of our members and supporters can do.”
The last Coffee N Cars meet raised more than £600 for a Christmas Day Community Dinner for 200 people at the Black-E.
Scheduled for the last Sunday of each month, the next one will be on the morning of Sunday November 30, until 12 noon, with the food gathering on December 14.
It’s free to attend, and everyone is welcome to go along even if they just want to look at the cars and maybe make a donation to that month’s chosen charity.
Norman says after a low-key start, Coffee N Cars has become far more than just a reason to talk about classic vehicles.
As well as the monthly meets and food raising, there are other events too, including charity dinners and a coffee What’s App group which meets daily.
That’s why they’ve decided to set up The Shum Foundation, to bring everything they do together going forward.
And, he says, it’s very much continuing the ethos of his grandparents, who opened their first family restaurant in Liverpool.
“My grandfather and the Chinese community established these places for people to eat, but it was also to bring people together, not just communities but families.
“That’s what we do now with Cars N Coffee because although we love cars, it’s our hobby, really it’s a gathering of people. And if we can raise a lot of money then that’s even better.”