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When Liverpool author Sheryl Webster first created her ‘rock star’ lion character Jonny Heart she hoped he would help children to understand the importance of being kind.
Now, almost two years since her book Kindness Rocks was published, it’s not only captured the imaginations of young children in schools across the city, it’s inspired thousands of acts of kindness.
They have included thousands of pairs of socks collected and given out through Paper Cup Coffee to people who are homeless, Kindness Comfort Bears donated to CashForKids Mission Christmas, 500 scarves knitted for homeless people and the creation of a kindness garden by young adults with autism at EPIC in Speke.
As National Year of Reading 2026 launches this week, Sheryl says her book – and its ongoing impact on young readers especially – proves the power of fiction goes further just escapism.
She says:
“When National Year of Reading launched, they were saying how reading unlocks kids’ imaginations, but I think it can also unlock empathy and confidence. If a child sees themselves reflected or sees a character that they care about, it’s not just helping them to understand their own feelings, it’s helping them to understand the world.
“I created my rock star lion to show kids that it’s cool to be kind, not in a preachy way but in a way that’s fun.
“But it’s grown beyond that because children have really connected with this character so it’s taken on a life of its own, one which even I didn’t imagine.
“This is my 40th children’s book and it’s been like nothing else I’ve ever done.”
Former teacher Sheryl, who lives in south Liverpool, says launching it in her home city has certainly helped generate such a positive reaction.
“Liverpool’s got a big heart as we all know, it’s a city built on community and looking out for one another, and whenever I’ve done anything and invited schools to take part, the children, the schools and the parents haven’t hesitated.
“Liverpool doesn’t just talk about kindness, it shows it – it’s brought the book and the characters off the pages and into action, and made kids feel they don’t just have to enjoy the story, they can be inspired by it and actually do something good.”
Although most of the acts of kindness have been by children and parents who’ve read the book, Sheryl says it’s touched older readers too.
“When we encouraged people to knit scarves for the homeless, most of the knitters were from local groups and in their 70s and 80s,” she adds. “I went in and read the book to them too and they all loved it.”
After the success of Kindness Rocks, this year Sheryl is developing it from a picture book to an illustrated early reader series aimed at children aged 5-9.
“The books will have six characters so it’s a bit like Friends for kids, and each character has their own story, with Johnny as the anchor.
“The reason I’ve decided to do this is when I’ve gone into schools to read with younger children and the other classes have come in, the older ones have been really switched on in picking up the underlying messages.
“I thought why not develop it into something children of all ages can benefit from?
“What I’ve found with Kindness Rocks is that you can create a ripple effect, right across the community – one group hears and another gets in touch and it just keeps going.
“This year I’ll be going back out into schools, and my focus will be to continue to grow the kindness, with more schools and more community projects, really helping children to turn this story into positive action.”
Find out more about Kindness Rocks here.
Find out what’s on at the Reader as they unveil their winter season events here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
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The Aintree Ladies Day Style Awards 2026 will be bigger than ever before with a prize that includes a £4,000 trip to Ibiza, the addition of new Style Award categories and annew look judging panel including our very own Rachael Rhodes.
A host of changes for Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse have today been unveiled, including two new Style Award categories, a fresh judging panel and a bumper prize package.
Britain’s online department store Debenhams is the Official Partner of Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse in 2026, which takes place on Friday 10th April, day two of the iconic Randox Grand National Festival.
In all, over £10,000 worth of prizes are on offer over the course of the day, with a whopping £4,000 holiday to Ibiza for two the main prize for the winner of the overall Best Dressed category.
Additionally, two brand new Style Award categories are being introduced for 2026:
· Best Hat: Honouring bold, beautiful and unforgettable millinery
· Best Suited: recognising impeccable tailoring
Over £10,000 worth of prizes are on offer throughout the day, with a once in-a-lifetime trip for two to Ibiza the main prize for the overall Best Dressed category.
For Best Suited, a £1,000 Debenhams voucher and Hospitality for two at the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale is up for grabs, while the winner of the Best Hat category can expect to walk away with tickets to a luxury spa break for two, worth £2,000.
Hand-picked to crown the most stylish racegoers of the year, the 2026 judging panel has also been announced and is this year comprised of:
· Lisa Tan: Debenhams Ambassador and internationally acclaimed milliner
· Josie Peaches: social media star and Liverpool style icon
· And our very own, Rachael Rhodes who has been one of the faces of The Guide Liverpool for nearly a decade.
Rachael says:
“I cannot wait to help choose our worthy winners at this year’s Ladies Day at Aintree, and the new categories bring even more opportunity to the Style Award 2026. I will be looking for individuality, effort and one big almighty smile”
Speaking about the 2026 Randox Grand National Festival, Regional Director North West at The Jockey Club, Dickon White, said: “Excitement is really building here at Aintree Racecourse, and we are delighted to announce these additions to Ladies Day and The Style Awards for 2026.
“The team have worked hard to ensure Aintree’s Ladies Day remains the highlight of Liverpool’s social calendar, with the new Style Award categories and the incredible prizes on offer adding a whole new dimension to the day.
“We are thrilled to be working with Debenhams, who will be onsite throughout the three days of the Randox Grand National Festival, offering racegoers complimentary hair and make-up touch-ups from their expert team.”
To find out more about the Randox Grand National Festival and the Style Awards, visit the website HERE.
£2bn plan to build more than 63,000 new homes in the Liverpool City Region unveiled.
Work with the City Region’s local authorities and housing associations has identified more than 300 sites on which over 63,000 homes could be built – including nearly 31,000 in Liverpool alone.
The LCR Housing Pipeline identifies proposals that will accelerate housing delivery and regeneration. It follows a recent announcement of £700m for new social and affordable housing – the biggest single investment into housebuilding in the City Region.
The Combined Authority will this month be asked to approve work carried out to date to progress the pipeline to deliver the new homes, and endorse the approach to prioritise development funding for projects within the pipeline.
Endorsement of the pipeline would enable detailed work to proceed on preparing the sites for investment and delivery, coordinated with wider Combined Authority investments in transport infrastructure and economic development and support from Homes England for prioritised sites through the Strategic Place Partnership.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“A decent home isn’t a privilege – it’s the foundation for everything else in life. Right now, too many families across our city region are being priced out or left waiting while good sites sit stalled and unused.
“This plan is about changing that. By using our powers, backing our local councils and working hand-in-hand with housing associations and Homes England, we can unlock difficult sites, get spades in the ground and build the homes our communities actually need.
“With the biggest investment in social and affordable housing our region has ever seen, we’re proving that when decisions are taken locally, we can move faster, attract investment and deliver real change – not just for today, but for the next generation too.”
Jointly with Homes England, the Combined Authority is already investing £1.3m to bring forward a major programme of 309 priority sites across Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral, identified through a Strategic Place Partnership (SPP) with Homes England.
At the January 23 meeting, members will be asked to approve the pipeline and endorse the creation of a Housing Investment Fund, aimed at unlocking stalled sites and accelerating delivery.
An estimated £1bn is needed to support 139 projects while the full pipeline of 309 sites could require support totalling £2bn. To accelerate the housebuilding and regeneration programme, the Combined Authority will also be asked to endorse work to establish a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC).
Duncan Inglis, Director – North, Homes England said:
“We’re proud to be working with the Liverpool City Region to turn ambition into action. Through our Strategic Place Partnership, we’re helping to tackle the barriers to development and ensure that these homes are built where they’re needed most – supporting vibrant communities and sustainable growth.”
Building new homes in urban areas is mainly held back by financial viability. Rising construction prices, higher borrowing rates, and stricter building rules mean many projects would cost more to build than their value when finished. This discourages developers and increases the need for public funding. Currently, the pipeline includes a £1 billion ask to the public sector to support 139 of 309 planned projects. Further review is needed for the remaining sites, but delivering all the homes in the pipeline could require close to £2 billion in public investment.
The next stage of developing the pipeline will involve working with the wider housing market to find ways to speed up delivery of sites in the pipeline and gain a clearer picture of current activity, focusing on existing SPP Priority Areas.
As part of this market engagement, the Combined Authority is hosting an event on 5 February, bringing together all interested parties, including contractors, developers, investors, Housing Associations, Local Authorities. This will be a launch event for on ongoing LCR Developer Forum, intended to build confidence in the market and support developers in building much-needed new homes.
The Combined Authority will also hear how a joint team of officers from the Combined Authority and Liverpool City Council will work together to develop a detailed business case for both the proposed designation of an Mayoral Development Area (MDA) covering the North Docks area of Liverpool and the establishment of a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to manage its regeneration.
Whilst the MDC will initially be focused on a North Docks MDA, officers will look to develop a model that can be rolled out efficiently across other priority regeneration areas within the Liverpool City Region.
Find out more on the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority website.
Find out more about Liverpool’s role in Tour De France here.
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The family of Ellis Cox has issued a fresh tribute ahead of what would have been his 21st birthday as detective continue to appeal for information.
Ellis, aged 19, was fatally shot on Sunday 23 June 2024 at Liver Industrial Estate and an investigation is ongoing to find the people responsible.
A number of people have been arrested in connection to the murder, but no one has been charged yet.
Crimestoppers is currently offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information provided directly to the charity that leads to the conviction of those responsible for the murder of Ellis (more information can be found at the end of this release).
To help mark Ellis’ birthday on Sunday, Liverpool Town Hall, St George’s Hall and the Cunard building in Liverpool city centre will all light up in his favourite colour, orange.
In a tribute issued today (Friday 16 January) ahead of his birthday on Sunday, his family said:
“Our beautiful Ellis. He was full of life. He was grateful for everything and everyone and had such big dreams. He wanted to travel, see the world and experience all life had to offer. He loved people and people loved him.
“His humour, his beautiful heart and his swagger meant everyone wanted to be his friend and he welcomed everyone in.
“On Sunday 18 January 2026 we should be celebrating his 21st birthday with him and spoiling him but instead we are once more making an appeal for information and begging those who know anything about that night to speak up and do the right thing help us get justice for Ellis.
“Ellis was the best son, grandson, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. His life has been cut short and for what? Who callously took him from us? Help us make our streets safer before more innocent lives are taken.
“The city will light up for you on Sunday Ellis in your favourite colour, orange. We love and miss you beyond words and our lives will never be the same again our hearts are broken.
“We are your voice now and silence will never be an option for us; we will not give up until justice is served.”
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath, the Senior Investigating Officer, said:
“A 21st birthday should be a day of celebration, but sadly Ellis’ family will be marking another special occasion without him.
“My thoughts are with them and our specialist family liaison officers continue to support them in every way they can.
“Our determination to get justice for Ellis’ family remains as strong as ever. We continue to make inquiries as part of this ongoing investigation and would appeal to anyone with information to come forward.”
A Crimestoppers reward of up to £20,000 was recently extended and will remain in place until Monday 6 April 2026.
You can provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visit the website.
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Southport station hosted the Railway 200 Inspiration Train drawing more than 3000 visitors over its four-day stop.
The free, family-friendly attraction, co-curated with the National Railway Museum, celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and formed part of a nationwide tour marking this historic milestone.
Inspiration Train, which has already captivated tens of thousands across Britain, offered guests a hands-on, interactive experience. Visitors of all ages explored railway firsts, tackled engineering challenges, and discovered both well-known and lesser-known careers in rail.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees describing the exhibition as “brilliant” and “fascinating.” One visitor shared, “If you or your kids like trains, history or anything interactive, I would recommend you check it out.”
The exhibition was hosted by Merseyrail. Their Managing Director Neil Grabham said:
“We were delighted to welcome the Railway 200 exhibition train to Southport. This event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the heritage and future of rail, reminding us of the vital role the railway plays in connecting people and communities every day. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the event such a success.”
Find out more on the Merseyrail website.
Find out more about the incredible events which are coming to Southport on 2026 here.
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Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance (CMCA) is working with HIV charity George House Trust to launch a new awareness campaign.
The campaign aims to empower communities to understand their increased risk, break down taboos, and encourage men who have sex with men (MSM) to seek help early if they have symptoms.
Thanks to antiretroviral therapy, the vast majority of people living with HIV in the UK now have a normal life expectancy. However, as the community ages, managing long-term health outside of HIV is crucial. While anal cancer is a rare condition, people living with HIV are approximately 19 times more likely to be diagnosed than the general population.
For men who engage in sex with other men, the risk is more than three times higher than for other men living with HIV. It is important to recognise while gay and bisexual men make up a large part of this group, this includes all men who engage in sex with other men.
This campaign addresses these risks directly, acknowledging that while many people find it difficult to discuss anal health, early diagnosis makes treatment far more effective.
The initiative features a series of social media assets and physical posters hosted in Axess sexual health clinics across Cheshire and Merseyside. Central to the campaign is a new blog post by Dr Paul Hine, an HIV Specialist in Liverpool, who provides expert guidance on why the HIV clinic is the best place to start these conversations.
Darren Knight, Chief Executive at George House Trust, said:
“As gay and bisexual men living with HIV are at increased risk of anal cancer, at George House Trust we’re committed making sure we’re helping people have open conversations, feel confident talking about anal cancer and ensure everyone knows the signs, symptoms and the support that’s available. It’s so important that we’re raising awareness and getting people talking about anal cancer.”
Jon Hayes, Managing Director of Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance, said:
“The campaign is designed to give people who need it, the knowledge to act when they first notice something that is not right for them – and to give them information on how to reduce their risk of developing anal cancer in the first place.”
The campaign also highlights practical steps for risk reduction, including the HPV vaccination, which is recommended for MSM and people living with HIV aged 45 and under, and the use of condoms.
The campaign launched this week and will involve healthcare partners and community organisations across the North West. Resources will be available via the George House Trust and CMCA websites.
Find out more on the Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance website.
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Adolescence star Stephen Graham has said winning an award at the Golden Globes was not his motivation behind the hit Netflix drama, telling ITV’s This Morning that achieving critical acclaim is “not why we do it”.
Stephen Graham co-created, wrote and starred in the Netflix hit, which has kicked off the awards season with wins at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice awards.
In an interview on This Morning, the 52-year-old discussed the success of Adolescence and spoke about how he did not set out to receive an award when he created the show.
Stephen Graham said:
“It’s not a game of footy. Do you know what I mean? It’s not a competition what we do.
“It’s subjective. It’s art. Art is subjective. It means different things to different people.
“It’s nice to be acknowledged by your peers. But ultimately, that’s not why we do it.”
Adolescence is a four-part drama which follows the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who has been accused of murdering a classmate.
At the Golden Globes, Adolescence saw its stars Graham, Cooper and Erin Doherty respectively named best actor in a TV mini series, best supporting actor in a television series and best supporting actress.
He said winning the award was:
“exceptionally surreal”
And added:
“It didn’t feel real. It was a wonderful experience.”
The show also won the prize for limited series, anthology series or television motion picture, and earlier this month at the Critics Choice awards it received the same four prizes.
Graham also discussed the second season of hit show A Thousand Blows, which launched on Disney+ earlier this month.
He is an executive producer on the show and stars in it as Henry “Sugar” Goodson, a bare-knuckle boxer in the East End of London in the 1880s.
Speaking about how his character came to be, Graham revealed he is based on a photograph, and said:
“It was this beautiful image of a black man who looks so regal, majestic and full of grace.
“And instantly, I’m curious, because I’m a mixed race kid myself, so I never got to see men like this.
“You want to know how he’s been able to take that photograph, what’s happened to him in order for him to be there in that part of his life.”
He said that the image inspired his wife Hannah Walters, who also is an executive producer on the show, to ask creator Steven Knight to build “something” around this idea.
The show, which launched in 2025, is based on a true story, and follows Jamaican immigrants in the bare-knuckle boxing circuit in the East End of London.
A Thousand Blows season two is available on Disney+.
You can watch Stephen Graham’s previous production, Adolescence, here.
Find out more about Adolescence’s huge win at the Golden Globes here.
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Liverpool’s set to celebrate the launch of its first ever major wine festival.
The Northern Wine Festival is being organised by Bacchus School of Wine and is being held at the Metropolitan Cathedral’s Crypt Hall in March.
Bacchus boss Johnathan Garry is hoping it will go on to become one of the most iconic celebrations of wine in the North of England and a highlight in the city’s calendar.
But for now, he says:
“I want to bring the uniqueness of a trade event tasting to the public.
“They can enjoy a huge variety of wines, meet producers, and even participate in a masterclass. Quite simply, they can have the most amazing time.”
Johnathan adds:
“We’ve been lucky to host the Bordeaux Wine Festival for many years and, like other cities, we’ve had events where merchants and online retailers have hosted their own wines.
“But Northern Wine Festival is different, because it doesn’t champion one region or seller and, after six years in the industry, I realised there was a need for something more.
“This is a wine festival that truly celebrates global wine, that everyone can enjoy.”
The festival will run for one day on Saturday, March 7, with a four-hour session in the afternoon and one in the evening.
There will be more than 100 different wines to try from producers around the world, built around four core themes:
* English Spotlight – focusing on English wine producers with representatives from Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and Devon
* Classic Regions – with producers from France, Italy, Argentina, Chile and California
* Discovery – looking at wines off the beaten track from places like Mexico, Uruguay, China and Japan
* Education – there’ll be blind tasting tables which, says Johnathan, might sound intimidating to the average wine lover. But typical of his approach in all things wine, he adds that they’ll be fun and relaxed: “You can take the hints and tips from the educator and have fun with it or, if you’re an aficionado, you can go it alone and geek it out to the max. Just remember to grab the results at the end.
“The idea is that you don’t need to know a lot about wine,” smiles Johnathan. “Just have fun and enjoy it.”
The event will cost £35 for a standard ticket per person, which will give them a wine card for their first 12 wines along with a branded tote bag, a branded tasting glass and a booklet giving them a full guide to what’s there.
“People can choose what they’d like to try. You don’t have to have so many reds or so many whites, you try what you want to.
“And the pour will be generous, with 60ml per tasting.”
Additional tasting cards can be purchased by those who want to try more wines, and there are two masterclasses which can be booked (with advanced booking discounts available online).
Led by Johnathan, people can choose This Is England, for which he’ll be joined by Silvia Cackova from Simpsons Wine Estate in Kent and Paddy Gaunt from Sandridge Barton, Devon, looking at eight premium English wines. “The masterclasses will include exclusive wines not exhibited generally during the day,” says Johnathan.
And 8,000 Years of Wine, looking at its origins in Georgia through to classic old world and new world countries, and concluding with the future of emerging wine countries. For that he’ll be joined by Henry Rymill from Domain Sainte Rose in the South of France; Rafael Lijtman Gorella from BBS looking at wines from Argentina and Chile, and Olga Salazar Torres representing MX Wines from Mexico.
“Apart from the Masterclasses, it’s a walk around tasting tour, but you get the chance to talk to the producers, the experts, as much as you want.
“This event is for everybody, from the beginner just getting into wine and wanting to know more, to the long-standing wine lover who gets a kick out of new discoveries.
“Another nice aspect is how many premium wines are available to try. For many, these won’t be their average go-to wine, so they may find a new favourite ‘treat wine’.”
To complement the wine, there’ll be food from local independents Crosby Cheese and Charcuterie; Bone & Block, based at Duke Street Market; Kelp Oyster Bar, and Spanish Caravan.
The ambition is that the festival will become an annual event that could be held over more days and become as significant for the city as the annual beer and gin festivals.
Johnathan says:
“Northern Wine Festival will be another event that celebrates culture for our city to proudly host.
“There’s a cultural aspect to wine. Coupled with the food and music, it’s a social event that’s perfectly on brand for Scousers across the city region, as well as being an attractive draw to those further afield.
“And we believe this could well be Liverpool’s event of the year!!”
Find out more about the Northern Wine Festival here.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool in 2026 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.
Il Forno is set to reopen its doors as Botanico following a transformation to evolve into the all day eatery.
Marking the next phase of the Cillo family’s proud culinary heritage, this transition will allow the venue to broaden its offering with a fresh concept and vibrant venue opening on Duke Street that is designed to reflect the way Liverpool lives today.
Botanico, which first launched in the heart of Woolton Village in October 2023, quickly became a guest favourite for its contemporary interiors, relaxed atmosphere and delicious Italian-inspired dishes, as well as sell-out Sunday Roasts and beautiful Afternoon Teas and is still as popular today.
While both concepts are rooted in the same authentic Italian food and hospitality, Il Forno has been synonymous with traditional Italian dining, whereas Botanico is an all day eatery, serving guests for morning coffee, fresh croissants and pastries, its delicious breakfast and brunch, hand crafted Afternoon Tea and lunch, through to its evening Bistro menu and evening Movida that matches the changing rhythm of the city and its people.
This approach will facilitate the needs of a wide variety of guests including families, couples and groups of friends, as well as tourists and business professionals. At Botanico there is something for every guest that values high quality Italian style dishes and coffee throughout the day.
Donato Cillo, Owner of Botanico, explained:
“Our decision to evolve Il Forno into Botanico is about listening to our guests and the city we love. Botanico allows us to honour our Italian roots while creating a more dynamic space – one where guests can enjoy exceptional coffee in the morning, relaxed brunches, business lunches, and memorable evening meals, all under one roof.
“Our valued guests can expect the same commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients and warm hospitality, now paired with a contemporary vision and accessible pricing designed to welcome everyone.”
Il Forno’s legacy lives on through Botanico; a celebration of heritage, Italian pride, and the Cillo Family’s ongoing promise to offer Liverpool an outstanding experience.
Find out more about Botanico here.
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Merseyside Police is urging community groups across Merseyside to apply for a share of £100,000, taken from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), to deliver projects that bring people together and help prevent crime.
Over the past three years, more than £300,000 cash and assets stripped from criminals has been reinvested back into good causes in communities across Merseyside through the Community Cashback Fund, supporting grassroots initiatives that make our region safer and stronger.
Grassroots organisations, charities and voluntary groups can bid for grants of up to £5,000 to fund projects which promote diversity, equality and inclusion and are designed to foster greater understanding between different communities.
Around 20 grants will be available for projects which have a focus on improving community cohesion, raising awareness of the impact of hate crime and challenging harmful attitudes towards other people.
The Community Cashback Fund is one of several initiatives that take place throughout the year which enables the PCC and Merseyside Police to reinvest some of the money seized from criminals back into local communities to help provide vital resources and fund community projects across Merseyside.
Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said:
“Merseyside prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive region, but we know the harm that stereotypes and hate-fuelled attitudes can cause if left unchecked and unchallenged. They can lead to serious crimes with devastating consequences for individuals and communities.
“That’s why this year’s Community Cashback Fund is once again focused on projects that promote equality, diversity and inclusion, strengthen community cohesion, and tackle hate crime before it takes root.
“By reinvesting money seized from criminals into positive initiatives, we’re turning bad money into good, supporting local organisations that work tirelessly to prevent crime and make our communities safer and stronger.”
Merseyside Police Chief Constable Rob Carden said:
“The Community Cashback Fund is a great initiative, which gives communities the ability to come together and prevent crime within their areas.
“Using money taken from criminals to fund initiatives in local communities is giving local people the ability to make a positive difference in their area.
“Grassroots initiatives have already benefitted from more than £300,000 cash to support their local areas. If you are a charity or community group in the area and haven’t applied for funding yet this is your opportunity to get some support and make your area safer for those who live there.”
The fund is being managed by the Community Foundation for Merseyside.
James Proctor, Programme Director said:
“Community Cashback is a fantastic fund that invests in our local charities and community organisations who provide crime prevention initiatives with a focus on promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.
“We have seen from previous grants awarded how supporting projects which enhance community cohesion and understanding, and reduce harmful attitudes and behaviours can help our diverse communities to feel safe, increase a sense of pride in local community and empower people to positively act in standing against hate”
Some examples of the types of work that can be funded include:
- Community integration and cohesion delivery focused on fostering understanding between different communities, particularly between communities of a different ethnic background, or different faith (or no faith), or between communities and migrants.
- Programmes for adults or young people which seek to challenge and change potential negative/harmful attitudes and behaviours towards other people of a different ethnic background, or sexuality/identity, or who are living with a disability.
- Intervention for men/young men to change potential negative/harmful attitudes and behaviours towards girls/women.
- Activities that seek to prevent and raise awareness about the impact of hate crime.
- Social action projects that seek to raise awareness and address issues affecting historically marginalised people and their rights.
- LGBTQ+ inclusion and pride delivery to help people to feel safe in their communities.
- Raising awareness to prevent exploitation or ‘mate crime’ committed against people with learning differences or people living with disability.
- Advice and information that allows people at risk of discrimination to know their rights
Applications are open now and will close at 4pm on Friday 13th February.
You can apply for the Merseyside Police initiative here.
Merseyside Police is supporting community groups in other ways too, read more 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.
Volunteering can make a huge difference across the community and to the people who step forward to help.
Across Liverpool and the Wirral, those who volunteer with Claire House Children’s Hospice say the experience has helped them build friendships, grow in confidence and find a renewed sense of purpose.
For many, it’s the connections that matter most. Around 85% of volunteers say they’ve made new friends through volunteering, helping to ease loneliness and feel part of something positive, according to data collected by the Merseyside charity.
Claire House supports seriously and terminally ill babies, children, young adults and their families across Merseyside and beyond, from its Wirral hospice, Liverpool site in West Derby and in the community.
But while volunteering supports others, it also gives a lot back to the people who help too.
Claire House Volunteer Photographer Michelle Webster, 39, from Birkenhead, said:
“Volunteering has given me purpose, connection, and a way to use my skills for good. It’s a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a difference. To anyone considering volunteering, do it! You’ll gain so much more than you give.”
Nearly two thirds of Claire House volunteers say their mental health has improved since getting involved, often thanks to the routine, support and sense of belonging that comes with volunteering.
Others speak about personal growth, with 65% saying they feel more confident and better equipped with skills they now use in everyday life.
And perhaps most rewarding of all, 95% feel they are genuinely making a difference, creating pride, motivation, and a sense of fulfilment.
Amy Harrison, Head of Volunteering, says volunteers play a vital role at Claire House:
“Our 2025 Volunteer Survey, sent to all active volunteers, gives a snapshot of what volunteering with us is really like. Our volunteers tell us they feel genuinely valued, and many say they’re happier and more content in their lives since getting involved.
“It just goes to show how giving a few hours of your time can have a lasting impact, not only on children and families and the wider community, but on the volunteers themselves too.”
Businesses across the region are also getting involved. In 2025, 511 people from 40 companies took part in corporate volunteer days, giving more than 2,400 hours of their time and raising £174,000 for the hospice. Alongside supporting a vital local service, many teams say the days helped boost morale and bring colleagues together.
Find out more on the Claire House website.
Find out more about the incredible work of Claire House and other Liverpool charities 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.
January always feels like it could do with a mood boost, so it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to something nice.
It doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but if it’s cosy or cute or creative it’s probably going to make you feel a whole lot cheerier even on the coldest of days.
The Nest at the Albert Dock is always packed with gorgeous things created by independent designers and makers, and owner Katherine Caldwell says right now it’s filled with new year pick-me-ups.
She said:
“From October to December it’s very much about buying for other people, and then for a couple of months from January we definitely see more self-gifting.”
“It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, it could be just a few pounds here and there, but it’s about finding lovely things that put a smile on your face.
“A lot of our artists and designers will create specific designs for a particular time of year, so for instance East End Press do seasonal themes for their handprinted garlands. We’ve got really lovely Valentine’s ones, which we actually sell all year round because anything with hearts on is always popular, and they’ve gone big on Easter this year too.
“Journalling with stickers has also been really popular. People keep a diary, they’ll use different pens, tape and put stickers in – it’s an affordable little creative project that you can start off in January and continue throughout the year.
“They’ll also personalise things like water bottles, phones and laptops with the stickers because they’re vinyl so they last.”
There are more gifts that help you get some valuable me time and mindfulness, whether it’s colouring books or jigsaws which have been one of The Nest’s bestsellers.
So, if you’re looking to brighten up your January, here are Katherine’s 7 brilliant self-gifting ideas …
Journal and stickers – Midori and Suatelier
Journalling is a big trend right now; the more creative and inventive the better! Include stickers and washi tape for securing tickets and notes from your week. We’ve also sourced some beautiful journals from Japan to join some of the finest makers in the UK in our stationery section.
Geoff Drake Photographic print – The Batman
Affordable artwork is an easy home update to start the year with. You can also celebrate Liverpool’s iconic status in Hollywood with this Geoff Drake title, The Batman, taken during production.
Mug – Katherine for The Nest
Cosy evenings with a cuppa are made extra special with one of these hand illustrated mugs. Designed by me and exclusive to us at The Nest, they’re made in small batches at Moorland Pottery in Stoke. If you want to romanticise the everyday, this mug honours our beautiful home at Albert Dock. There truly is nowhere quite like it!
Herd and Elder bath salts, soap and candles
For self-care and soothing comfort during the cold days, come home to a luxurious bath and “you time” with bath salts, soy candles and award-winning soaps by local makers Herd and Elder. They even use milk from their own goats!
Garlands – East End Press
You don’t have to wait until Feb 14th to celebrate all things love! The best-selling iconic handprinted garlands from East End Press have now been joined by brand new 2026 collections.
Handmade beaded earrings – Palm and Luna
A major jewellery trend for 2026 focuses on pieces that are made to last, with an emphasis on quality and longevity. Having hand-made jewellery to treasure for years to come doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. These hand-beaded earrings from Palm and Luna are made locally and are timeless in their design.
Jigsaws – by Happily with designs from top UK illustrators – and colouring books
Jigsaws are a lovely activity for cosy evenings indoors and we have a fantastic collection with illustrations by top UK designers, or keep calm and creative with colouring books, coloured pencils and brush pens.
Find more great gift ideas on The Nest website.
Find out what’s on across Liverpool this January 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.
Liverpool FC manager Arne Slot will welcome back Mohamed Salah from the Africa Cup of Nations next week and has said he’ll be happy to see the forward.
The Egypt international’s last appearance for the Reds was in mid-December when he came off the bench against Brighton, just five days after he was left out of the squad for his outspoken comments when he questioned his future at the club after claiming he had been “thrown under the bus”.
It was a fractious few days in which there was speculation about the possibility of him leaving in the January window, but that was never a likely prospect and even less so after British-record signing Alexander Isak subsequently sustained a leg fracture.
Salah’s departure to the tournament in Morocco has allowed tensions to cool and Slot was keen to highlight the importance of having him available again, using the word “happy” three times to stress the point.
Ahead of the visit of Burnley, Arne Slot said:
“First of all he needs to play another big game for Egypt on Saturday and then he comes back to us,”
“I am happy he comes back because Mo has been so important for this club, for me.
“Even if I had 15 attackers I still would have been happy for him to come back – but that is not our current situation.”
Slot said they were in conversation with the 33-year-old about how soon he would be available – Liverpool play Marseille in the Champions League on Wednesday – after Saturday’s third-place play-off against Nigeria.
He said:
“That is something we are talking about together: what is expected of him over there and over here,”
“First of all he needs to have an important game on Saturday.”
Salah returns to a squad which has been weakened by injuries to Isak and Conor Bradley, who has been ruled out for the season with a knee injury.
But Liverpool are 11 matches unbeaten – Salah featured in three of those at the start of the run – and a much more stable unit than when the Egyptian departed.
Slot added:
“Ideally it is not 11 games unbeaten it is 11 wins in a row, that’s always what you’re aiming for even if it’s not realistic,”
“But from where we were when we conceded the fourth goal against PSV (their last defeat on November 26) and where we are now I think we are in a much better place.
“There is still enough room for improvement – but there was room for improvement last season when we were top of the league and Champions League in this period of time.”
Liverpool are fourth in the Premier League heading into the weekend, eight points behind Aston Villa and only two above Brentford, and Slot admitted that battle was their main concern domestically.
Slot said:
“We haven’t put ourselves in the most ideal position, especially if you compare it to where we were after six games (they won their first seven in all competitions).
“The reality is we are competing against these teams for the fourth position. There is still a lot for us to play for in the league.”
Andy Robertson recently stated that improvement was needed from Liverpool FC, read more here.
Get the latest Liverpool FC 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-based Shared Reading charity The Reader launches its Winter Season with a huge line-up of events.
The Reader starts the UK’s first National Year of Reading 2026 with a two-month celebration of poetry, prose and talks at its home in the iconic grade-II listed Mansion House at the heart of Calderstones Park, Allerton.
A stellar line-up of literary events spanning winter wellbeing workshops, deep reads and author talks, plus family-friendly February half term activities and workshops kicks off with a lively Burns Night Cèilidh on Saturday 25 January, 7pm – 11pm.
This annual evening of dancing, poetry and a hearty Scottish stew is traditionally held in memory of one of Scotland’s renowned storytellers, Robert Burns. The Mansion House sees the return of popular Liverpool band The Saltcutters, known for their rip-roaring traditional fiddle music from across Ireland and the UK.
Other highlights include the start of a new four-week Deep Read featuring 2024’s best-selling Booker Prize-winning novel Orbital by Samantha Harvey – following a day in the life of six astronauts on the International Space Station – every Wednesday from 21 January – 11 February at 2pm.
Looking for a new hobby for the New Year? Thursday 22 January sees the launch of a new monthly Sip & Stitch Social for anyone interesting in learning to crochet or knit or connect with fellow stitchers. This is the perfect casual space to learn, share tips, and unwind over a glass of wine. Absolute beginners welcome.
Any couples looking to tie-the-knot at the beautiful historic Mansion House are invited to meet The Reader’s team of dedicated events planners, talented onsite chefs and selected suppliers at the charity’s next Wedding Open Day, Sunday 1 February, 11am – 3pm.
Celebrating Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) season is the charity’s first Blind Date with a Book on Thursday 12 February, 6.30pm. A £10 entry ticket includes a glass of fizz on arrival, snacks, nibbles, time to mingle with fellow book lovers and £5 towards any book purchase on the night.
Early booking is highly recommended for The Reader’s popular February half-term Storybarn Holiday Club, Monday 16 February – Friday 20 February. Each session is designed to be fun, playful and engaging, adapted to suit a range of ages between 5-10 years old.
A busy February half term of family-friendly events in Calderstones Park kicks off with a musical production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, especially for children under-10, by Liverpool’s Bookworm Players on Monday 16 February, 11am and 2pm.
Young bookworms are invited to a Meet the Author event with Chanté Timothy (Daddy Do My Hair; Hey You!) on Friday 20 February, 1pm – 3pm for a Q&A followed by a STEM-inspired workshop making slime based on her bright and bold full-colour graphic novel series Supa Nova.
Families can also join two cosy evenings of Bookshop Bedtime Stories after-hours in The Reader Bookshop on Friday 30 January and Friday 27 February, 5.30pm –6.30pm. There’ll be lots of comfy blankets and cushions to snuggle into and everyone will help to build their very own story together. Best suited for children aged 4–9-years-old. All children will receive a free babycino.
The charity’s literary programme also includes a second Winter Wellbeing Workshop on Saturday 21 February, 1pm – 3.30pm is inspired by Hamnet, Maggie O’Farrell’s historical fiction following the cinema release of a new film adaptation starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal.
On the same weekend The Reader’s Founder, Dr Jane Davis will explore the work of medieval English poet Chaucer in this February’s Masterclass on Sunday 22 February, 10am – 4pm.
And an ‘In Conversation’ for adults will take place with New York Times best-selling illustrator David Roberts to discuss his latest work We Are Your Children: A History of LGBTQ+ Activism in The Reader Bookshop on Thursday 26 February, 6.30pm –8pm.
Jamie Barton, Literary Activity and Bookshop Manager at The Reader Bookshop said:
“2026 is set to be the National Year of Reading, and we are starting it off with some brilliant reads like Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell and Orbital by Samantha Harvey.
“For this programme we’re drawing inspiration from The Reader’s 2026 Bookshelf which we are excited to share soon. If you’re looking for an opportunity to try something brand-new and enriching in 2026, it’s the perfect time to get involved in Shared Reading!”
The National Year of Reading sets out to encourage a love of books and reading to children from an early age. The number of children and young people in the UK now reading a book for pleasure has dropped to its lowest level in 20 years. The National Literacy Trust has revealed just one in three eight to 18-year‑olds enjoy reading in their spare time – a 36% reduction in two decades.
Find out more on The Reader website.
Find more events 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.
The Liverpool City Region is set to welcome stage two of the men’s Tour De France on Saturday, 3 July 2027.
Competitors will race from the Cumbrian town of Keswick through Lancashire eventually travelling through the boroughs of Knowsley and St Helens, before finishing the stage in a super sprint along Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.
The full routes for both the men’s and women’s races were revealed as ten host towns and cities were illuminated simultaneously in a nationwide “Tour de Skies” moment, marking the next major milestone on the road to the 2027 Grand Départs – set to be the largest free sporting spectacle in British history.
The men’s Tour de France will begin in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July, with the opening stage finishing in Carlisle, before stage two travels from Keswick to finish on The Strand in Liverpool city centre.
To celebrate the announcement, all start and finish venues were lit up simultaneously, with a yellow beam illuminating the sky from the city’s Three Graces, St George’s Dock building and the Mersey Tunnels.
The announcement will also present a huge multi-million-pound boost to the Liverpool City Region tourism economy and will put a timely spotlight on the region’s active travel programme, which is delivering more than 600km of new cycling and walking routes.
The arrival of the Tour De France completes an impressive hat-trick of global sporting events coming to the Liverpool city region over the next few years, with The Open to be staged at Royal Birkdale this July and the UEFA EURO 2028 Championships to be hosted at Everton FC’s stadium in 2028.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve been able to work with our local authorities to attract this major event to our region. The Tour de France is one of the world’s most iconic sporting spectacles, so it’s only right that it comes to the UK’s most decorated sporting region. Whether you’re into the Premier League or Rugby League, the drama of the Grand National or the prestige of England’s golf coast, we are the home of truly sensational sporting moments.
“Welcoming the finish of stage two with the backdrop of our iconic waterfront will be an unforgettable occasion – not just for cycling fans, but for everyone who lives here or comes to visit. It’s a huge opportunity to support our thriving £6.25 billion visitor economy, showcase our region to a global audience, and play a part in sporting history.”
Chris Boardman, multiple Yellow Jersey holder on the tour and now National Commissioner at Active Travel England, said:
“I never thought I’d see the world’s biggest race finishing just eight miles from my home, on roads I know so well. It will be an incredible spectacle. The route to Liverpool’s iconic waterfront — starting in the Lake District and rolling through Lancashire — promises tough, hilly and spectacular racing. The beauty of cycling is that it’s free to watch and open to everyone. Few sports let you get this close to the stars or offer such versatility — from getting to work or school to bringing the whole country together. That’s why I love cycling, and why I’m thrilled to see the Tour coming to my back yard.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council commented:
“I am absolutely thrilled that the men’s 2027 Tour de France is set to travel through Knowsley on its way to a spectacular finish in Liverpool City Centre. Back in 2012 we were proud to host the Tour of Britain in the borough – which I know ignited a real passion for cycling, so I think the news about the Tour De France will be very warmly welcomed by residents. What a fantastic opportunity for people to catch a glimpse of the peloton and have the chance to witness this world-famous sporting spectacle right here in Knowsley.”
Jon Dutton, Chief Executive, British Cycling, said:
“The Grand Départs in 2027 are about so much more than six unforgettable stages of racing – it’s about unlocking lasting change for communities right across Britain. Through Joy – our collective, game-changing social impact programme – we will put opportunity, wellbeing and community pride right at the heart of this moment in sporting history.”
Alongside the route announcement, organisers also revealed Joy, the social impact programme at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ, that aims to tackle inactivity and improve mental wellbeing, support communities to thrive, and to make Britain more productive and prosperous.
Six core programmes will be rolled out across the home nations, with organisers working collaboratively with governments, local councils, core delivery partners and community representatives to create opportunities for young people to develop their skills, break down barriers for girls in sport, and to showcase community culture through the voices of Britain.
Additionally, British Cycling will look to recruit more than 7,000 volunteers for the Grand Départ, inviting people across the UK to play a hands-on role in delivering the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event. Thousands of opportunities will be available across route operations,
spectator support and community engagement, offering people of all ages the chance to be part of Tour history, with more details to be announced when the programme is launched in the spring.
Find out more about the Tour De France here.
Find out about some of the incredible events taking place in Liverpool in 2026 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.
Southport is set for another bumper year in 2026 with a whole host of shows and festivals taking place in the seaside town throughout 2026.
Spanning 22 miles of coastline, Southport and the surrounding area offers a cavalcade of wonderful experiences.
Whether it is the walking and cycling trails, 100 iron life-size statues in Crosby, kite surfing in Ainsdale, sand dunes, red squirrels, beautiful pine woods at the National Trust protected site in Formby, there is so much natural beauty to soak up.
And if that wasn’t enough this year, it has one of its biggest and most diverse events programmes to date.
Boasting a calendar packed full of events – many absolutely free – that will bring colour, creativity and big crowds to the town month after month.
And alongside returning favourites, several brand-new events are set to make their debut, adding fresh energy to an already busy programme.
Here Visit Southport picks out just some of the must-see events to put in your diary and make it a year to remember…
Lightport (14 – 16 February)
Lord Street | Free
Southport kicks off the year in spectacular style as Lightport transforms the town after dark.
Created by international artists Lucid Creates, this immersive light and sound experience turns familiar streets into a glowing, walk-through canvas.
Expect bold projections, large-scale installations and an atmospheric festival feel across key locations. Free, family-friendly and designed to be enjoyed at your own pace, Lightport is set to be one of the standout moments of the year.
Cristal Palace (3 – 4 April)
Lord Street | Free
Lord Street becomes the stage for a striking open-air spectacle as world-renowned French street theatre company Transe Express brings Cristal Palace to Southport.
A 15-metre-wide flying chandelier suspended above the street will be accompanied by live music, aerial performance, and choreographed movement, transforming the iconic boulevard into a dramatic ballroom.
Big Top Festival (2 – 3 May)
Town centre locations | Free and ticketed events
Modern circus takes over Southport as the Big Top Festival returns with performances from some of the world’s leading companies, including Circa and Gandini Juggling.
Across open-air stages and pop-up venues, visitors can enjoy breathtaking acrobatics, live music and hands-on workshops. With Southport’s long links to circus heritage, the festival feels right at home in the town centre.
Southport Beer Week (20 – 25 May)
Town centre venues | Free entry
Cheers to a good year! New for 2026, Southport Beer Week launches as a town-wide celebration of real ale and great beer.
Organised by Southport BID, pubs and bars across the town centre will host tastings, special events and promotions over four days, giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to explore Southport’s independent venues.
Southport Food and Drink Festival (29 – 31 May)
Victoria Park | Free entry
A firm favourite on the events calendar, the Southport Food and Drink Festival returns with a tempting mix of street food traders, producers and live entertainment.
From gourmet burgers and hot wings to paella, crepes and churros, visitors can sample flavours from around the world in a relaxed, family-friendly setting in Victoria Park.
The 154th Open Championship (12 – 19 July)
Royal Birkdale Golf Club | Ticketed
Southport will be firmly in the global spotlight in July as Royal Birkdale hosts The Open Championship for the 11th time.
Championship play runs from Thursday 16 July to Sunday 19 July, with thousands of visitors expected in the town making it one of the biggest moments of the year for the resort.
Southport Flower Show (20 – 23 August)
Victoria Park | Ticketed
The UK’s largest independent flower show, welcoming more than 55,000 visitors each year, returns for four days in August.
The 2026 show will feature stunning floral displays, show gardens, celebrity guests, shopping, food and drink, plus a full programme of entertainment, cementing its place as a highlight of Southport’s summer season.
Southport Air Show (29 – 30 August)
Southport seafront | £12 (under 16s free)
A much-loved summer event, the Southport Air Show returns with two days of thrilling aerial displays.
Aviation fans from across the region flock to the town each year, with spectacular performances set against the backdrop of Southport’s coastline.
British Musical Fireworks Championship (26 – 27 September)
Victoria Park | £13 (Under 5s free)
Tonnes of explosives equals tonnes of fun! Music, colour and pyrotechnics combine at one of Southport’s most-loved events.
Known for its dramatic finales and crowd-pleasing performances, the British Musical Fireworks Championship lights up Victoria Park with two nights of carefully choreographed displays.
Southport Comedy Festival (2 – 18 October)
Victoria Park | Ticketed
They say laughter is the best medicine, so Southport is serving up another big dose of hilarity. Now in its 15th year, the Southport Comedy Festival returns to Victoria Park for 17 days of live comedy, welcoming performers from across the UK.
The festival, which attracted more than 6,000 people last year, will once again take place in a massive luxury heated and seated marquee, and big names already confirmed include
Henning Wehn, Gary Delaney, Scott Bennett and rapidly rising comedy and TV star Laura Smyth.
More exciting names to be announced soon.
Keep an eye on the festival website or join the mailing list to find out first who will be making Southport Smile in 2026.
Books Alive! (24 – 31 October)
Various town centre venues | Free and ticketed events
Running throughout October half-term, this reimagined literature festival has been created especially for families and young readers.
Storytelling installations, live performances, and author-led workshops will turn Southport into a living storybook, bringing stories to life across the town.
The Atkinson (throughout the year)
Lord Street |Free entry to exhibitions, with some ticketed events
Southport’s cultural hub has a packed programme planned for 2026, with exhibitions, theatre, comedy, music and family shows running throughout the year.
Highlights include the continuation of The Atkinson’s 150th Anniversary Exhibition, featuring works by L. S. Lowry, Laura Knight, and Walter Sickert; the popular Sefton Open celebrating local artists; and a major ARTIST ROOMS exhibition showcasing works by Gilbert & George, drawn from the Tate and National Galleries of Scotland collections.
Alongside exhibitions, audiences can also expect touring theatre, live comedy and music across the year.
Southport’s cultural hub will deliver a packed year of exhibitions, theatre, comedy, music, and family shows in 2026.
Find out more at Visit Southport and Southport 2026.
Find out what else is on across Southport 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.
Sefton Council is hopeful that pending a successful outcome of the business case, works to Southport Pier should be expected to get underway in early 2026.
A full restoration of the unsafe structure, which has sadly been closed since December 2022 for health and safety reasons, will now take place thanks to a £20 million investment from the UK Government’s Growth Mission Fund subject to the business case being approved.
In order to be successful in accessing the funding Sefton Council were required to submit a formal business case to the Government’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
The business case will now be assessed at a special Growth Mission Fund panel later this month (January 2026).
The initial funding announcement, confirmed last year, follows extensive planning, structural assessments and public safety measures undertaken by Sefton Council since it was forced to temporarily close the pier to keep people safe.
The Grade II listed structure, the second longest in Britain, stretches 3600 feet and encompasses breathtaking views of the town’s Marine Lake, Promenade and beach.
Thanks to Government funding, the restoration will go far beyond the original decking replacement plans approved three years ago.
Following detailed surveys, the scope now includes:
– Full replacement of decking boards and timber joists
– Extensive steelwork repairs and replacements due to corrosion
– Installation of new gates and CCTV
– Implementation of a new long-term maintenance regime
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council said:
“I have been on record countless times saying we would be ready to start these works as soon as we get funding and we are staying completely true to our word.
“A two-stage design and build procurement process has already been completed, while listed building consent is also secured.
“We were delighted with the announcement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer in 2025 who, as we do, recognises the importance of Southport Pier and the agreement to support the Pier with up to £20million of investment.
“The Council has now submitted a full and complete business case to the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and we still expect work will begin in early 2026.
“We are working closely with the DBT to progress this process at pace.
“The business case has set out the up-to-date construction costs while also addressing the need for ongoing yearly maintenance including options such as the use of the Pier contingency fund, planning obligations and other forms of income raising initiatives.
“Southport Pier is a structure with a rich history but regrettably with a poor refurbishment programme carried out in early 2000s the refurbishment left the pier very vulnerable!
“However we have never considered giving up on it. The Pier is a symbol of Southport’s identity, history, and now, thanks to the Council and Central Government, secured for the town’s future too.
“Consultation has also taken place with Historic England, the Southport Pier Trust, and the Pier Society, ensuring the works fully respect the pier’s historic significance.
“I am grateful to the Government for recognising the importance of Southport Pier. This funding allows us to deliver a safe, sustainable and significant restoration that will benefit generations to come.”
Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the northern parishes, said:
“This next step on the way to the reopening of Southport Pier is fantastic news for our town. Thanks to the Government’s £20 million commitment in the June spending review, this proposal now sets out a clear plan for the repair, reopening, and long-term maintenance of the Pier.
As the jewel of Southport’s coastline, the pier’s decline in recent years has been a matter of both local and national concern. This proposal by Sefton Council offers a promising opportunity to restore a much-loved landmark and reaffirm this Government’s commitment to the preservation and support of local cultural heritage. Its revival will not only boost our local economy but also reignite pride across throughout my constituency.”
Find out more about Southport Pier here.
Find out what’s on in Southport in 2026 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.
Plans by Peel Waters for 90 new waterside homes at Wirral Waters have been approved by Wirral Council.
The new scheme will form phase two of Redbridge Quay, within the regeneration area’s Northbank neighbourhood, and follows on from the completion of the award-winning Miller’s Quay development last year.
Phase two of Redbridge Quay is being developed as a joint venture between Qualis Developments and Forshaw Group and will be the next available residential development along Dock Road.
The development comprises 84 one-bedroom and six three-bedroom apartments across six blocks and will be four storeys high with pitched roofs. Each apartment will benefit from energy efficiency measures to reduce CO2 emissions, including solar panels and EV charging, and will have access to cycle parking. Nearby amenities will include a new 4,300 sq ft Sainsbury’s store on the corner of Dock Road and Duke Street.
Landscaping, open space, and public realm are central to the design of the apartments to create a vibrant, accessible and community-focussed space for residents, with two gardens, 19 newly planted trees, seating areas, and two greens connecting the development to the attractive waterside walkway.
Each apartment building has been designed to reflect the areas dockland heritage and complement nearby residential developments, including phase one of Redbridge Quay, Miller’s Quay, and the regenerated Grade II listed former grain warehouses at East Float.
Qualis Developments is a property development company specialising in the design and build of high-quality new homes across the North of England, with ‘Great Central’ in Sheffield among their recent projects. Qualis will be working in a joint venture with Forshaw Group, a residential property developer that specialises in transforming unused land and buildings.
Wirral Waters is part of Peel Waters, a UK wide portfolio of vibrant and innovative, waterfront developments, delivering large-scale, sustainable regeneration projects, creating jobs, economic growth, new homes and new public realm across the country.
Richard Mawdsley, Director of Development at Wirral Waters, said:
“We’re excited to bring yet another residential development to Wirral Waters as the community along Northbank continues to grow.
“Phase two of Redbridge Quay will build on the momentum we have created at Millers Quay and the first phase of Redbridge Quay to create a sustainable neighbourhood which supports the creation of a strong and healthy community.
“We’re delighted to be working with Qualis Developments and Forshaw Group to bring these fantastic new apartments to the people of Wirral. They will be a great addition to the Northbank neighbourhood and to the wider Wirral Waters regeneration area.”
Richard Dean, Managing Director at Qualis Developments, commented:
“Securing planning approval for phase two of Redbridge Quay is an exciting milestone for everyone involved. Wirral Waters is a regeneration programme of real scale and ambition, and we are delighted that Qualis can play a role in its next chapter.
“Working closely with Forshaw Group and Peel Waters, our focus is on delivering well-designed, energy-efficient homes that contribute to a thriving and sustainable neighbourhood. We’re looking forward to getting on site and bringing these homes to life.”
Leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paula Basnett, said:
“This is another significant milestone for Wirral Waters and a further vote of confidence in Wirral. By redeveloping brownfield land into high-quality, energy-efficient homes, we are not only delivering much-needed housing for local people but also creating vibrant communities.
“Developments like Redbridge Quay show the real progress we are making in building sustainable neighbourhoods, driving forward the regeneration at Wirral Waters, and helping to shape a vibrant waterside community for generations to come.”
Find out more about Wirral Waters here.
Find out what’s on across the Wirral 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.
To mark its second birthday, Jacaranda Baltic will host a special event featuring live music and giveaways.
The night will showcase the very best of Liverpool’s local talent, the cornerstone of the brand’s ethos and identity.
Tickets are priced at just £2, with doors opening at 6pm.
In just two years, Jacaranda Baltic has hosted multi-GRAMMY Award–winning artists, former Glastonbury headliners, Coachella main-stage acts, Mercury Prize winners, Creamfields headliners, Isle of Wight Festival headliners, Reading & Leeds headliners, and more than 20 artists who have gone on to sell out Wembley Arena.
This success lies in Jacaranda Baltic’s unique approach: an accessible and affordable way for fans of physical music to experience world-class artists in their home city.
Artists who have performed at Jacaranda Baltic include:
- Bastille
- Faithless
- Travis
- Jess Glynne
- Michael Kiwanuka
- Dizzee Rascal
- Becky Hill
- Craig David
- The Libertines
- Jake Bugg
- Cat Burns
- The Zutons
Artists from across the world continue to travel to Jacaranda Baltic, drawn by one of the UK’s most committed audiences for physical music. Liverpool’s reputation as the UK’s city of music plays a significant role in the venue’s continued success.
The space has become one of the UK’s premier destinations for album launch shows and events, offering artists a proven platform to deliver top-tier launches directly to their fans.
Graham Stanley, Managing Director of Jacaranda Records, said:
“Liverpool is what makes Jacaranda Baltic work. There is such a concentrated audience of music lovers and record buyers here that artists know if they come to Liverpool, they can deliver a top-tier album launch to their fans.”
Namina Koroma, Manager of Jacaranda Record Store, added:
“The record store at Jacaranda Baltic still feels new to us, so it is hard to believe it has already been two years. Our team loves working in the Baltic Triangle — it brings a completely different energy, especially during the summer months.”
Find out what’s on at Jacaranda here.
Find more music 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.
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre is set to welcome back a popular immersive installation designed to inspire recycling.
The ‘Infinity Room’ exhibit, designed by not-for-profit Every Can Counts, uses mirrors and suspended aluminium cans to demonstrate the infinite recyclability of aluminium, and raise awareness about the importance of recycling amongst children and the wider public.
Following its successful debut at the centre back in June 2023, the installation returned this week, with a visit from local primary school, Widnes Academy, to mark the occasion. The exhibit will remain at Catalyst throughout 2026, giving families, schools, and other visitors in the local area plenty of chance to visit and enjoy the exhibit while learning about recycling.
Through engaging displays and interactive learning opportunities, Catalyst is also using the installation to teach visitors about the important links between chemistry and the climate, weaving in content from the national curriculum.
Inside the giant drink can-shaped installation, visitors will find themselves surrounded by an infinite reflection of suspended aluminium cans. As they take it in, a narrator will lead them on an educational journey through aluminium can recycling and its environmental benefits.
Made using 1,500 recycled cans and 25 square metres of mirrors, the installation also offers a great photo opportunity.
Chris Latham-Warde, Programme Manager for Every Can Counts, said:
“We’re so pleased to be bringing the Infinity Room back to Catalyst after its popular first visit. The installation is designed to capture attention and spark conversations about aluminium’s value and why recycling matters.
“Aluminium can be reused again and again and every empty can has the potential to be back on the shop shelves in as little as 60 days. We hope visitors to Catalyst and our installation leave feeling motivated to keep that cycle going.”
Meryl Jameson, Marketing Manager at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum, said:
“We’re excited to welcome the Infinity Room back to Catalyst following the enthusiasm it received during its first run. It’s a brilliant way to engage visitors with an important message, while offering a fun and immersive experience for families and young people.
“At Catalyst, we’re passionate about helping people explore science and understand the impact we can all have on the world around us. Working with Every Can Counts helps bring sustainability to life in a creative, hands-on way – and we hope it encourages visitors to make sure every drink can they use is recycled.”
Visitors can explore the Infinity Room at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum as part of a standard admission ticket.
The centre is closed on Mondays, open from 10am – 2pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 10am – 4pm for the rest of the week. The ‘Infinity Room’ will be located within the Interactive Gallery on the ground floor.
Every Can Counts is a unique partnership formed between drink can manufacturers, drink can fillers and the wider recycling industry, all with the goal of reaching a 100% recycling rate for drink cans. The programme provides free recycling support to businesses and organisations around the UK. Find out more information about Every Can Counts here.