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With just days to go until Christmas, the team behind the Mission Christmas Toy Appeal are urging people across Liverpool and the surrounding area to act fast and help make sure no child wakes up without a present on Christmas morning.
This year, Cash for Kids Liverpool and North Wales has received a staggering 32,836 applications for Mission Christmas. Every single child has been identified by professionals including teachers, social workers and community organisations, as living in poverty. Without the appeal, these children would face Christmas morning with no gifts at all.
Since 19th November, the Mission Christmas team and an army of volunteers have been working tirelessly behind the scenes, packing presents and spreading festive cheer. So far, gifts have been packed for 21,690 children, but the scale of need this year is greater than ever. That means 12,529 local children are still waiting to have their presents packed, with just one week to go until Christmas Eve and only two more volunteer packing days left.
The appeal is about far more than toys. It’s about ensuring 662 babies experience the magic of their first Christmas, making sure children who’ve written letters to Father Christmas feel heard, and helping 5,006 teenagers feel included when friends talk about what they received. Most importantly, it’s about reminding parents and carers that they are not alone, and that their city cares.
However, organisers say the campaign has reached a crisis point, with significantly fewer gift donations coming in compared to previous years. Despite everyone’s best efforts, the reality is that without urgent support, there simply won’t be enough gifts to reach every child who needs them.
One application received this year paints a heartbreaking picture. A little boy spent Christmas Day last year wearing his school uniform because he wanted to look smart. His Christmas dinner was a packed lunch, given to him days earlier by a community centre. His circumstances haven’t changed, and once again that same centre has turned to Mission Christmas for help. It’s a sobering reminder that behind every statistic is a real child, living locally, experiencing the build-up to Christmas without knowing if it will ever truly arrive.
That’s why the call to action is so urgent. Supporters can make a cash donation, which allows Cash for Kids to purchase gifts from wholesalers at a third of the recommended retail price, helping donations go even further. There’s also an Amazon Wishlist, where gifts can be sent directly to Mission Christmas HQ, ensuring they arrive in time to be packed and delivered. You can donate via the Amazon Wish list HERE.
Organisers are also welcoming people to visit Mission Christmas HQ at Birkenhead Car and Van Hire, to see first-hand the incredible work being done and the impact donations make.
With time running out, Mission Christmas is asking the city to come together once again and do something truly magical. A single gift, a small donation, or simply sharing the appeal could help ensure thousands of local children wake up to the joy, excitement and dignity every child deserves on Christmas morning.
Liverpool FC recently visited Alder Hey Children’s Hospital for Christmas. Read more about it HERE.
Cabinet approval marks a key moment for the regeneration of Liverpool’s North Docks.
The Council’s formal agreement was a critical step in accelerating quality regeneration across the city’s northern waterfront.
The decision will see the MDC operate under a bespoke governance that ensures close collaboration between the Council and Combined Authority.
This partnership will be central to delivering sustainable development at pace, and align regeneration projects with the city’s strategic priorities to bring forward housing and commercial space to accommodate key growth sectors.
Working with the Combined Authority, City Council, national agencies and the private sector, the MDC will help drive the joint ambition for sustainable growth and ensure that community needs remain at the heart of the transformation.
The proposed development zone spans key sites along the North Docks, aiming to unlock investment, create jobs, and revitalise underused land.
By taking on new powers to coordinate development, including for accelerated planning and land assembly, the MDC will enable a streamlined and transparent approach to statutory planning decision, innovative financing tools and dedicated teams for infrastructure delivery.
The Cabinet’s decision marks a defining moment for Liverpool’s regeneration ambitions, signalling that the MDC can move forward and begin shaping the future of the North Docks.
Liverpool City Council has already identified the potential for more than 17,700 new homes and 5 million sq ft of new commercial space over the next 15 years within the North Docks area.
The MDC complements, but is separate to, the adjacent Liverpool North New Town Project – a community-focused regeneration programme aimed at creating new neighbourhoods, improving housing and local infrastructure, and revitalising communities beyond the waterfront.
Find out more on the Liverpool City Council website.
Find out whats on at Hill Dickinson Stadium this Christmas here.
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Craft Beer Expo will return to Black Lodge Brewery on Friday 12th and Saturday 13th June 2026 with an expanded mix of food, drink and music across the Baltic Triangle site.
The festival has been part of Liverpool’s independent scene for more than thirteen years and is recognised as the UK’s longest running craft beer event. Next year’s edition also sits within Black Lodge Brewery’s tenth birthday year, creating a natural moment to develop the weekend further.
What began as a small beer led gathering has grown steadily into a well-attended summer fixture that attracts visitors from across the region. For 2026, the team have broadened the drinks offer beyond beer, including independent cider, cocktails and summer serves, alongside an expanded brewery list and food offer. More space will be used across indoor and outdoor areas to give people more to explore across the two days.
Paul Seiffert, founder of Black Lodge Brewery, said:
“We wanted the tenth year of the brewery to feel like an opportunity to add more to the weekend. The beer list remains central to what the Expo is about, and widening the food and drink side gives people more to enjoy throughout the session without changing the feel of the event.”
Black Lodge has hosted the Expo for the past five years and has become one of the Baltic Triangle’s most recognisable independents. The brewery is known for its collaborations, one off releases and the regular markets, pop ups and community events that take place alongside day-to-day brewing.
As part of its tenth anniversary, the brewery is hosting a birthday bash on Saturday 13th December 2025 from 1pm to 6pm. Tickets are £8, which include your first beer and a limited-edition birthday glass, marking the milestone ahead of a full year of celebrations.
More than thirty breweries feature in the first announcement for 2026, including Amity, Balance, Colbier, Courier, Dark Element, Duration, Farmyard, Firerock, Fell, Kirkstall, Lakes, Lark Hill, Only With Love, Pixie, Rigg and Furrow, Spookton, Talking Tides, Tartarus, Trig, Vaux, Vibrant Forest and Wylam. Additional breweries will be confirmed in the new year.
This will also be the most extensive food line up the Expo has hosted so far. Confirmed traders include Damn Fine Burger Co, Saffa Soul, Dough Bros Pizza, Aunty’s Kitchen and Burner Kitchen, all of which are known for their regular appearances at events across the North West. More traders will be announced as the festival approaches, alongside details of the DJ sets and live performances planned across the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Paul added:
“We see a wide mix of visitors now. Some people come mainly for the beer, others prefer the food or the music, and many make a full afternoon or evening of it. The brewery’s tenth year gives us room to build on that without changing what people recognise.”
Tickets are now on sale, with four sessions available alongside day passes and a full weekend ticket. Prices start at £15 plus fees, and each ticket includes a limited-edition beer brewed for the event. Visitors are encouraged to book ahead if they have a preferred session, particularly on the Saturday.
Tickets for Craft Beer Expo are available here.
Find other upcoming events across Liverpool 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.
There’s a lot about the city we can label iconic, from major landmarks like its two cathedrals and the Royal Liver Building to its sporting history and the musical heritage that’s known throughout the world.
And when it comes to food there’s another Liverpool legend that’s guaranteed to get everyone talking and flocking to see it – and savour it: the meaty masterpiece that’s the Almost Famous burger!
Almost Famous burgers were born from a need for a super juicy, dripping-down-your-arms, no-nonsense burger.
They’re made from 100% prime cuts of beef, layered with melty cheese and oozing with creamy, tangy sauces, all smashed together on a pillowy soft-charred bun to create the best burgers bar none.
And if you’ve never set eyes – or your lips – on one of these beefed up beauties, or it’s been a while since you’ve visited the American diner-style restaurant in Parr Street, there’s only one thing to ask: what are you waiting for?
Chris Lewtas, General Manager at Almost Famous, said:
“ Almost Famous has always been about big, unapologetic burgers done properly,”
“Everything we do, from the prime beef to the soft buns and bold sauces, is designed to give people that messy, indulgent burger they can’t stop thinking about.”
All made with quality ingredients and bursting with bold flavours, there are loads of different burgers to choose from, from the Butter, Blood and Bleu, a double cheeseburger with double buttermilk fried chicken, halloumi, slaw, peri peri BBQ sauce and bacon bacon mayo, to the Blame It On The Whiskey burger, with a double cheeseburger, wonderdusted waffle fries, chipotle hot honey, BBQ pork, pepperoni, jalapeno & onion, bacon bacon mayo, and redneck BBQ and cholula sauces.
You can even pay tribute to your Mersey origins with the This Is Liverpool burger, a double cheeseburger, salt n pepper chicken n chips, chip shop curry sauce, wonder onions, peppers, chillies, iceberg and peppered mayo. Go ‘ed!
If your mouth’s watering now, that’s not even the end of your fantastic feast, because you can add delicious Fries ‘n Tots – we love the Phoenix Fries made with winning fries, bacon rain, JD maple glaze, shoestring onions, frazzle dust, chillies, bacon bacon mayo and redneck BBQ sauce.
Or treat yourself to amazing sides like Mac n Cheese, wings, and Boneless Buttermilk Fried Chicken.
You might have trouble choosing which to have and that’s where Almost Famous comes to the rescue, with a new tray service and spot-on prices that mean you can select a few different ones to sample – and even share with your mates (if you really have to).
Add a drink like one of its super delicious shakes, blended with vanilla ice cream and topped with cream – or if you’re in celebratory mood why not try a draught or bottled beer or a classic Almost Famous cocktail and you’ll really be in burger bliss.
With music playing to accompany your dining dream, there’s no need to ask why they call it ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’!
Find out more about Almost Famous here.
Get 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.
Officers are clamping down on car thieves as they step up patrols and offer safety advice to motorists during the festive period.
We are issuing safety advice as part of our Winter of Action taking place between 1 December 2025 and 31 January 2026 which is a national initiative to help keep communities safe during the festive season and into the New Year.
Superintendent Matthew Moscrop, Force Lead for Vehicle Crime said:
“We are asking anyone who owns or drives a car, van or motorcycle to be vigilant over the festive season. By taking simple but vital steps to protect your vehicle and belongings you can reduce the risk of theft. We would also encourage anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour to report it to us so that we can help ensure Christmas and the New Year are remembered for the right reasons.
“As part of Winter of Action officers will be patrolling around busy areas in town centres in Liverpool, Knowsley, St Helens, Wirral and Sefton are giving out information and leaflets with safety advice on for drivers to help prevent crime.
“We know that thefts of and from cars across Merseyside is a concern, particularly with keyless entry, which is not an opportunist crime but also part of the criminal activity of organised crime groups (OCGs). OCGs will target cars outside homes as they know they can use equipment that can remotely access your vehicle so we would advise owners to put their keys in a Faraday Pouch which is a specialises pouch or box that blocks all electronic signals, creating a shield to protect electronic devices from accessing your vehicle.
“When you are out and about shopping, make sure you take your valuables with you, but if you can’t put them out of sight so they are safe. In winter I would urge people not to leave their vehicle unattended when using their engine to help clear windscreens and warm up their car, if it is taken when it is left like this your insurance company may not pay out and not only will you have no car but you may find you also have to foot the bill yourself to replace it.
“We have lots of advice on our website where you can find tips on keeping your car safe, we will also be handing out leaflets with safety measures on during our uniformed patrols so please come and talk to us about crime prevention and reporting any thefts to us.”
Advice includes:
- Lock it or lose it – lock your vehicle and check you haven’t left and windows or the sunroof open
- Lock it. Pouch. It Keep it. Use a Faraday Pouch to help prevent keyless entry car theft – it blocks the electronic signal criminals can use to remotely access your vehicle
- Take it. Hide it. Keep it. It is always best to take your valuables with you, but if you can’t, put them out of sight
- Do not leave your engine running unattended when de-icing or warming up your car. If someone takes it while left like this, your insurer may not pay out
- Park in a well-lit area. If possible, park in illuminated and staffed car parks
- Fit good in-car security locks, such as steering wheel locks, pedal boxes and gear stick locks
- Keep your keys safe and out of view at home and away from your front door
- Double check electronic locking as devices can be used to jam the electronic signal from your key fob to lock your vehicle. Always manually check your vehicle has locked before walking away
Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
You can also call 101 or DM us @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.
Find out more on the Merseyside Police website.
Find out whats 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 John Lennon Airport (LJLA) is getting ready once again for the traditional Christmas and New Year ‘getaway’.
This could be the Airport’s busiest Christmas and New Year period ever with over 200,000 passengers expected to pass through the Airport over the festive holidays – an increase of 4% compared to last year.
Families from across the region are expected to head off on flights over Christmas and New Year to a host of destinations direct from Liverpool, for a mix of winter sun or winter sports, whilst others will be travelling to visit friends or relatives over the festive period.
Destinations likely to prove most popular for families visiting friends and relatives are all close to home and include Belfast, Dublin and the Isle of Man, whilst most winter sun seekers will be heading to Alicante, Tenerife, Malaga, Arrecife and Faro. Flights to Amsterdam, Krakow, Geneva, Paris and Barcelona are set to be the busiest for those flying to city destinations.
Whilst delays aren’t expected, passengers travelling from Liverpool over the coming days are advised to allow extra time to pass through the airport at peak times.
As always at this time of year, airport management are keen to remind all passengers that restrictions on liquids carried in hand luggage are still in place and to think carefully about what items they are intending to pack in hand luggage, before they set off for the Airport – especially those who are travelling with presents for friends and relatives.
The good news however is that following the installation earlier this year of the latest generation security screening equipment, electrical items such as tablets and laptops can now remain in hand luggage as can any liquids and gels, however these remain limited to a maximum 100ml size.
To avoid disappointment at the security search point and to help keep security queues to a minimum, passengers are being asked to travel with their presents unwrapped if they are to be carried in hand luggage, with items including Christmas crackers not permitted by most airlines.
Robin Tudor, Head of PR for LJLA commented:
“This could be our busiest festive period ever and we’re all really looking forward to welcoming thousands of passengers to the airport, taking advantage of the convenience of flying hassle free from Liverpool to a host of great destinations.
We are asking passengers at peak periods to allow a little extra time to pass through compared to normal and to come prepared, thinking carefully about what they are carrying in their hand luggage, since restrictions remain in place.”
Find out more on the Liverpool John Lennon Airport website.
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.
Santa’s Secret Forest has welcomed thousands of visitors, earned rave reviews nationwide and established itself as one of the UK’s must-see festive experiences in its first year.
As Santa makes his final preparations for the big day, families still have a last chance to experience the festive magic at Santa’s Secret Forest, the hugely popular Christmas attraction set in Orrell Hill Woods, Hightown. With only days remaining until Christmas Eve, the immersive experience is closing its inaugural season on a high, following a wave of rave reviews from visitors from all over the country with some guests travelling from as far away as Australia.
Running since late November, Santa’s Secret Forest has captivated thousands of guests, including celebrities, sporting personalities and representatives from local children’s charities. The attraction is the brainchild of event supremo James McMahon of Sidestep Events Ltd and represents a multi-million-pound, digitally driven festive extravaganza.
Guests are taken on a nostalgic, story-led journey through ten magical rooms, beginning in the Grand Lobby before boarding the Tinsel Town Express into the heart of Santa’s festive headquarters. Along the way, visitors stop at the Sleigh Garage, lend a helping hand in the Mail Room, explore the Elf Village and its awe-inspiring Toy Workshop, and ride the Magic Elevator for a private audience with Santa in the North Pole.
The experience features a magnificently curated 2,700sqm Christmas Hub, a beautifully illuminated woodland walk, state-of-the-art scenery, animatronics and a superb cast of elves. Outside the main attraction, visitors can enjoy the purpose-built Merrywood Market a festive Christmas village offering food stalls and seasonal attractions, including a thrilling VR Sleigh ride, before meeting Santa’s real reindeer as they depart the woodland setting.
In its first year, Santa’s Secret Forest has been hailed as a resounding success, with organisers already planning an even more ambitious experience for next year.
James McMahon, Sidestep Events Ltd, said:
‘The feedback this year has been truly astounding with a raft of five-star reviews. We are delighted that our vision has brought so much joy to so many families and who have made magical memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. Seeing children in awe of what we have created and happy families was the driving force behind the entire project’
If you have not experienced the wonder beyond the woods yet, you had better be quick – Santa’s Secret Forest runs until Christmas Eve so there is still time to make Christmas 2025 the most magical one yet.
Book your tickets on the Santas Secret Forest 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.
This Christmas, Anfield is bringing the festive cheer to the LFC stadium tour, and its wide range of visitor experiences.
On 20th & 21st December, visitors will have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas, his elves and club mascot Mighty Red, as part of the special festive tour route.
From 10am to 3pm on both days, young fans can meet Santa in his grotto, receive a small gift, and have their photo taken by a professional photographer, with prints available to purchase as a treasured keepsake.
Santa’s helpers will host a variety of Christmas-themed activities, including crafts, colouring, carol singing and party games. Mighty Red will also make surprise appearances across both days, interacting with young supporters and joining in the celebrations. Guests are encouraged to wear their most festive outfits.
The club continues its Legend Q&A sessions featuring Phil Thompson on the 20th December. These sessions offer supporters an intimate opportunity to hear exclusive dressing room stories, enjoy memorable anecdotes and ask questions to the club’s most iconic figures.
Every Legend Q&A is complemented by access to the LFC stadium tour and museum, where visitors can explore the club’s rich history, view all major trophies and enjoy the Champions 24/25 exhibition, available for a limited time only.
For a gift guaranteed to delight any Red this Christmas, LFC gift experience vouchers are available to purchase online and in store, covering the full range of club experiences.
Book your tickets now on the Liverpool FC website.
Find out whats 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.
Avanti West Coast has introduced its new December timetable with an increase to services on its Liverpool route.
Launched this week, the intercity operator’s new timetable is focused on enhancing connectivity to Liverpool, with customers travelling on this route now able to benefit from the option of two trains per hour throughout most of the day between Liverpool and London.
The timetable also provides a direct link to the capital for the wider Liverpool City Region through the introduction of Avanti West Coast services at Liverpool South Parkway station. On weekdays and Saturdays, a new hourly service will connect local communities to London in just over two hours on one of 170 trains that are scheduled to stop at the station per week.
In addition, the timetable uplift includes the launch of a weekday return service between Hartford and London, connecting east Cheshire to the capital in under two hours – benefitting those travelling for business with a morning southbound service departing at 08:10, and an evening return service departing at 18:43.
Building on the progress made in the previous timetable changes in May and September this year, the additional Avanti West Coast services equate to an increase of over 20,000 seats per week. This takes the total number of services to the highest ever level to operate on the West Coast Main Line – with a total of 2,083 now scheduled to run weekly.
The enhancement of services on the route between Liverpool and London has been made possible following the introduction of Avanti West Coast’s new Evero fleet – a £350m investment of 13 bi-mode (Class 805) and 10 electric (Class 807) trains.
The introduction of the calling point at Liverpool South Parkway adds additional connectivity for customers travelling on flights to one of over 60 destinations from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, with the station offering a shuttle bus to and from the airport every 10-20 minutes throughout the week. With larger luggage racks and more space for bags between seats on Avanti’s Class 807 fleet, customers choosing to connect to the airport via this route can expect a comfortable and smooth start to their trip.
Smaller regions across the West Coast Main Line will also notice an increase to direct services to and from London. The additional services added in the timetable between Liverpool and London will call at Tamworth and Lichfield Trent Valley, further building on the progress made in the operator’s September timetable uplift this year to enhance connectivity between these locations and the capital.
Andy Mellors, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast, said:
“We’re delighted to be delivering on our promise to increase our services between Liverpool and London. The introduction of services at Liverpool South Parkway station and the new direct link to the capital will add a huge benefit to the wider region.
“The uplift in services means that we are now running more services than ever across the West Coast Main Line. We’re continuing to grow our timetable in a measured and sustainable way – maintaining the standards our customers rightly deserve.”
Cllr Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Transport Committee, said:
“The introduction of these additional Avanti West Coast services between Liverpool and London is fantastic news for our city region.
“Additional transport links to the capital can only have a positive effect on our city region economy and the addition of an hourly stop at Liverpool South Parkway means more of our residents will enjoy improved connections to intercity routes and the great opportunities that can bring.
“We’re really excited to see the contribution these services will make to our plans for a more sustainable transport network and how they will help to connect communities across the country.”
Visit the Avanti West Coast website here to book your Liverpool to London train journey.
Find out what’s happening 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.
Since reopening again in September 2024, The Jawbone Tavern has been a big hit with locals after being taken over by new owners who updated the local, while still keeping with its rich history.
The Jawbone Tavern has seen quite a transformation, as well as a refurb, an extensive beer garden was built, with local artist Paul Curtis creating a huge whaling image outside, tapping into the pub’s rich history.
Now a new sports bar is currently being built and will open at the start of the new year. From 3 electronic dart board lanes, a pool table to 7 big screens, so customers can catch all the big sporting action.
The Jawbone Tavern on Litherland Road originally opened in 1802 and was named after the whaling fleets based at Bootle Docks. The public house has survived 2 world wars and was once owned by a Championship winning Liverpool FC footballer, Jock McNab and has served thousands of people in Bootle Village for well over 200 years now.
The General Manager of The Jawbone Tavern, Dave Mcnally, says:
“When the new owners took over The Jawbone Tavern they had plans to create a new outdoor space and that was completed earlier in the year. This was a big hit with our locals across the summer months and now we have expanded upstairs and are in the process of creating a 80 customer capacity sports bar. The sports bar will be an extension of what we currently offer and we look forward to welcoming customers both new and old from January onwards.”
The expansion will create an additional 8 jobs at the site.
The Jawbone Tavern has gone all out again for Christmas this year with a huge tree and light display at a time when locals had commented on how festive the old historic site looks. Adding to some extra Christmas cheer the pub also paid for the Bootle community Christmas tree after Sefton Council announced that Bootle would be the only town in Sefton without a Christmas tree this year.
Find out more about The Jawbone Tavern here.
Get 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.
Hoylake RNLI lifeboat station was full of festive spirit as Santa spread joy to fundraise for lifesavers.
Father Christmas welcomed around 400 visitors on his visit to the Wirral coast, supported by his elves and RNLI mascot Stormy Stan. Families from across the local community had their photos taken with Santa, with children donning RNLI helmets and lifejackets similar to those worn by lifeboat crews.
Hoylake RNLI’s Water Safety Team were also at the event to share essential water safety advice with the young guests, helping them to keep safe on and around the water. Visitors also had the opportunity to view the station’s all-weather Shannon class lifeboat and Inshore Rescue Hovercraft.
Generous donations from visitors helped to raise £383.47 in support of the charity’s lifesaving mission over the Christmas period.
Santa himself will be busy responding to letters delivered to the station’s special Christmas post box, built by volunteer Rob Davis. Every child will receive a personal reply from the North Pole.
Brian Jordan, Hoylake RNLI Lifeboat Visits Officer, said:
‘It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the festive atmosphere at the lifeboat station as we welcomed our special visitor for the first time. Father Christmas was thrilled to meet so many local children and we’re always heartened to see the fantastic support from our community for our volunteers and their lifesaving work.’
Howie Owen, Hoylake RNLI Coxswain, said:
‘We’re hugely grateful for our community’s support, especially through the winter months ahead. The kind donations from our visitors will help fund vital equipment, kit and training so our volunteer crew can respond to emergencies around coast. We wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas.’
RNLI lifeboat crews across the UK and Ireland will be on call 24/7 throughout the Christmas period. On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period every year. In 2024, Hoylake RNLI’s volunteers were called out on Christmas Eve.
Whatever winter weather throws at them, RNLI volunteers will be ready to battle the elements to save lives at sea. These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters. Your own Christmas gift to the RNLI will keep the charity’s crews prepared and protected, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment.
Find out how you can support the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal 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.
Choosing the right Christmas gift can sometimes give you a bigger headache than the one you’ll get after too much fizz at the works’ annual do.
We all let it cause us so much grief – and why, when we know that the best thing about the festive season is simply spending time with each other?
Virgin Experience Days, though, can keep us all merry and bright with loads of amazing gifts and experiences that everyone in the family will love.
And with more than 300 to choose from in Liverpool, it means you’ll find it easy to choose the best pressie for every friend or family member, and it’ll give you the chance to spend precious time together too.
Isn’t that just the icing on the (Christmas) cake!
Foodie fans can enjoy a three-course meal for two at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen or a Gaucho Roast Dining Experience with Cocktail … or if you really fancy pushing the boat out, how about immersing yourselves in a night of magical dining with a Kitchen Table Private Experience for Two by Great British Menu Chef Andrew Sheridan at his flagship restaurant ‘8’ in the city centre?
If you fancy taking things a little easier, a bit of pampering could be right up your street – and it’s always more enjoyable when you share it with someone.
You could choose a Fresh Facial Spa Treatment at LUSH Spa, or a Spa & Thermal Journey with afternoon tea and Prosecco at the plush Municipal Hotel, or even unwind with a Weekend Spa Break with Treatment and Dinner for Two at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Liverpool.
Beatles fans have got all sorts of incredible experiences to select from, like a visit to Strawberry Field with Afternoon Tea in the Gardens for Two, a couple of seats on the famous Magical Mystery Tour bus, or a trip to the world’s largest permanent Beatles exhibition, The Beatles Story – and more.
While sports fans can enjoy a trip to Anfield for a Stadium Tour and Museum Visit – and the brave might even like to get strapped up for the Anfield Abseil – or you could opt for a sight-seeing bike tour or Unlimited Gaming at Arcains.
There are theatrical experiences, treasure hunts through the city’s streets, helicopter rides, crazy golf, paintballing fun – and you can even design your own perfume, learn a craft or enjoy an immersive family day out courtesy of the Quirky Quarter.
The only problem you could possibly have is being spoilt for choice.
This Christmas Liverpool can be your ultimate playground for fun and unforgettable adventures for you and your other half, you and your mates, or you and the rest of your family crew.
And all you need is love, a little thought – and Virgin Experience Days.
Merry Christmas, it’s a wonderful life!
Find the perfect gift on the Virgin Experience Days website.
Get 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.
Strictly Come Dancing Live has unveiled the next couples joining their 2026 arena tour.
Strictly Come Dancing Live has unveiled the latest couples joining the glittering 2026 arena tour, with three much-loved partnerships set to bring the ballroom back to life for audiences early next year.
Joining the line-up are YouTuber, podcaster and social media star George Clarke, who will take to the dancefloor with professional partner Alexis Warr, alongside former professional footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, dancing with Lauren Oakley.
In an extra treat for Strictly fans, Layton Williams will return to the tour as a special guest, reuniting with his professional partner Nikita Kuzmin. Following their show-stopping alumni appearance in Blackpool, the much-loved duo will perform a selection of their most iconic routines for arena audiences.
The newly announced couples complete the sensational line-up heading out on the 2026 tour, bringing all the glitz, glamour and world-class choreography that Strictly is famed for.
Strictly Come Dancing Live will visit M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th February 2026, promising two unforgettable nights of show-stopping performances, dazzling costumes and electrifying live music.
George Clarke said:
“The last few months have been a whirlwind, but I’m honestly delighted to be joining the tour and to be able to continue my Strictly journey on the road. Bring on January!”
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said:
“I’ve witnessed first-hand the joy and excitement that this show can bring to people – so when the opportunity to join the live tour arose, I couldn’t say no. I can’t wait to meet all the incredible fans.”
Layton Williams said:
“What, me? A ‘Special Guest’ – ok!! Omg I’m backkkk and so excited to be reunited with Nikita again to slay the UK! It’s an honour to be asked back and able to do this twice. Thank you and see you soon. L x”
Audiences can expect spectacular routines, expert judging and the chance to vote for their favourite couple each night, deciding who takes home the coveted Glitterball Trophy. Each performance will also feature a British Sign Language interpreter, displayed on large screens at either side of the stage.
Book your tickets now on the M&S Bank Arena website.
Find loads of great shows at the M&S Bank Arena and more on our calendar.
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The Beatles Story and Fab4 Café are busy working on plans to support the local community of people living with dementia from 2026.
Through raising awareness of the power of music for memories, the establishment of a regular memory café named ‘In My Life Memory Café,’ tailored experiences in the award-winning Beatles Story exhibition, and outreach opportunities for staff, the attraction hopes to inspire memories and offer support to people with dementia in Liverpool and beyond.
Evaluations made by music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins, in 2023 and 2024 found that, among other positive results, 87% of individuals living with dementia found that music therapy enhanced their quality of life. The Beatles Story plans to bring these findings into the local Merseyside area, providing support through the lens of The Beatles and the 1960s and nurturing precious memories through music.
The Beatles Story team aims to blend proven research on music and dementia with the memories of the 1960s that are ready and waiting to be rekindled at The Beatles Story museum.
The announcement comes as part of The Beatles Story’s ongoing sustainability and community endeavours, which secured the attraction a silver Green Tourism award in June 2025, and is now quickly heading towards a gold recognition.
The Beatles Story team are encouraging care providers and institutions to get in touch if their new dementia scheme may benefit the individuals that they provide care for.
To begin discussions, please reach out to The Beatles Story here.
Find out what’s new at The Beatles Story here.
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From New Year’s Day through until Sunday 11th January, kids can enjoy a complimentary skate with every adult booking at BOXPARK Liverpool.
With a bigger and better rink than last year, ICEBOX has been hugely popular with sell-out dates for its festive ice rink, fire pit and winter wonderland in the heart of The Baltic Triangle.
Located in the venue’s vast garden space, ICEBOX is packed with fun things to do for the whole family with the festive village packed with amazing street food, including Christmas specials, winter warmer seasonal drinks and being the perfect backdrop to festive entertainment and events throughout the festive season.
Open right through until Sunday 11th January (excluding Christmas Day), guests can enjoy exciting ice skating sessions, toast marshmallows around the fire and make the most of a packed Christmas events calendar with a variety of festivities that everyone can enjoy.
Tickets are £10 per Adult (12+) and £8 per Child (3-12).
In January, all adult tickets will automatically qualify for a complimentary children’s ice skating session. Tickets can be purchased on BOXPARK Liverpool’s website.
Joel Lee, General Manager at BOXPARK Liverpool, said:
“The response to ICEBOX has been overwhelming and we’re delighted to be able to provide such a magical experience in the heart of the city centre where families, friends and colleagues can come together to celebrate the festive season. We know January can be a tough month and so from New Year’s Day through to Sunday 11th January, children can skate for free when an adult ticket is purchased. This will give families the chance to continue the Christmas spirit for a little bit longer and keep those January blues away!”
Find out more on the BOXPARK Liverpool website.
Find out what’s on in Liverpool this Christmas here.
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The Liverpool FC men’s squad made their annual Christmas visit to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital on Monday.
As is tradition each December, Reds players and staff spent time around Alder Hey to spread a little festive cheer.
Arne Slot and his team met patients and their families, as well as the staff, posed for photographs and shared LFC goodies.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk said:
“This place is full of heroes, in my opinion, helping so many kids through very tough times. Not only the kids, also the parents,”
“It’s great for us to be here. It’s tough to hear certain stories, but we know what it could bring if we are here and visiting the kids. I’m really happy to be here.”
Curtis Jones said:
“I love coming here with the lads and putting a smile on the kids’ faces and the staff and the families.
“At the end of it, I hope the kids come away feeling more like themselves and the families get a real boost. And it’s nice to see the staff with how hard they work, giving them a bit of help as well.”
You can find out more about the incredible work Alder Hey does here.
Get the latest Liverpool FC news here.
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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 Park Palm House has been announced as 1 of 18 additional new gardens that will join the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Partner Garden scheme for 2026
These additions expand the scheme to 241 gardens across the UK and worldwide.
Among the new partners are 13 British gardens stretching from Cornwall to Scotland via several UK cities. Highlights include the internationally renowned Eden Project in Cornwall—a former clay mine transformed into one of the world’s most celebrated gardens. Since opening in 2001, the Eden Project has inspired millions with its mission to demonstrate and encourage positive action for the planet.
Joining the offering in the north of England is York Gate Garden near Leeds, an enchanting Arts and Crafts style Garden with Grade II National Heritage status,14 individual garden rooms, striking sand garden and tranquil meadow walk. Liverpool’s Sefton Park Palm House has also joined the scheme. The Grade II*-listed Victorian glasshouse is situated within Sefton Park and is a much-loved cultural landmark within one of the UK’s most historic public parks.
New additions also include the award-winning gardens of Walmer Castle, 8 acres of garden around the coastal fortress built in 1539 by Henry VIII. The historic garden has been shaped by a colourful cast including the Duke of Wellington, Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and recently visited by King Charles who planted a commemorative horse chestnut tree. East Lambrook Manor Garden also re-joins the renowned scheme. Widely regarded as the most famous cottage garden in the UK, the Grade One listed cottage garden was created by celebrated plantswoman and author, Margery Fish, in the mid 20th century.
International gardens include Australia’s Garden of St Erth, a historic property with roots dating back to the gold rush era of the mid-19th century, cherished for its blend of historical charm and botanical beauty. California’s Filoli Gardens also joins the scheme for 2026. Filoli’s expansive 16-acre garden offers visitors a harmonious blend of formal design, natural beauty, and rich horticultural history.
Prunella Murray, Partner Gardens Manager at the RHS says:
“We are delighted to welcome 18 new gardens to create a 241-strong RHS Partner Garden family for 2026. There is something for all types of garden lovers to explore – from the iconic Biomes of the Eden Project to a diverse range of gardens around English cities to Arts and Craft gardens like Goddards and The Laskett. We also have three castle gardens (Glamis, Raby and Walmer) and are welcoming back East Lambrook, home of cottage garden style pioneer, Margery Fish. RHS Members are very lucky to be able to visit these wonderful gardens, at selected times, as part of their Membership, and we would like to extend our thanks to all our RHS Partner Gardens for supporting the charitable work of the RHS through this initiative.”
The RHS Partner Gardens scheme allows RHS Members to visit a range of independent gardens for free at selected times of the year. They include some of the world’s most admired gardens as well as privately-owned hidden gems. Alongside the British Isles, they canbe found in 10 countries across the globe, including France, Italy, Japan and South Africa.
Find out more about the RHS Partner Gardens here.
Find out whats on at Sefton Park Palm House this Christmas here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
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A former soldier who brought the car of Paul Doyle to a stop during the LFC parade when he climbed into the back seat and moved the gearstick to park mode has said he does not think he did anything special.
Dan Barr has been described as a “hero” who stopped Doyle, who injured 134 people, from continuing to drive through the crowds on Water Street in Liverpool city centre after the LFC victory parade on May 26.
The 41-year-old, who suffered cuts to his head following a “scuffle” with the driver, said he only did what most other people on the street were trying to do.
He said:
“I don’t think it’s anything special. I know it sounds mad.
“It hasn’t sunk in. Maybe it never will, but I’ll do it again.”
The builder’s labourer, who served for eight years in the Royal Engineers including in Iraq, said he saw the “opportunity” to get in when Doyle’s Ford Galaxy stopped with the rear passenger door about five paces away from him.
He said:
“My intention was to punch the window through.
“Although this was a split second, there was other people around the car, and they were desperately, desperately, and rightfully so, trying to get in.
“So I ran up to that window with the full intention of punching it, whatever use that would do, because I assumed that all the doors were locked and that’s why nobody could get in and they were punching it.
“Just at the final moment I tried the door and it opened.”
Mr Barr, from Birkenhead, Wirral, crawled into the back seat and said once he was in the car Doyle accelerated away, causing the rear door to slam shut with the force.
His memory of his time in the car is “blurry”, but he said he remembered the contrast between the screaming, shouting and panic on the street and relative silence inside.
He said he got the impression it was a “family car” and remembered Doyle repeating words to the effect of “why won’t they move out my way?”.
He recalled looking for the car keys to stop Doyle and feeling that the car was “gliding through” the crowd “indiscriminately”.
He said:
“Eventually, this could be like two seconds, I don’t know, I remember seeing the automatic gear stick so from the back seat I reached through, and I’ve pushed it as far as I could, as hard as could, into ‘P’ which has brought the car to the stop.”
Mr Barr remembers some sort of scuffle with Doyle, who kept trying to rev the car as he held the automatic gearstick in park mode.
He said:
“He had no chance, he wasn’t going to move my arm.
“No way, he could try to chop it off or whatever.
“I remember that much.”
While holding the gear stick in place, he reached forward with his other hand and pressed Doyle’s seatbelt buckle.
He said:
“As soon as I pressed that he was gone,”
“The crowd were trying to get him out, from what I remember, the windows were getting smashed, everybody was trying to get in, rightfully so.
“I pressed the seatbelt and off he disappeared.”
After leaving the car, Mr Barr carried on making his way up the road and later met his brother, who had also been in the city for the parade.
He said:
“I imagine I told him at a million miles an hour, something roughly that made sense, and then went for a pint,”
Mr Barr’s actions have been praised by police and prosecutors.
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald said:
“There is no doubt in my mind that Doyle would have continued to drive and cause further injuries had Dan not acted with such bravery.”
The LFC parade driver has now been sentenced to over 21 years in jail, read more here.
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Paul Doyle, who ploughed through crowds at Liverpool’s victory parade, injuring 134 supporters, has been jailed for 21 years and six months.
Paul Doyle, 54, was travelling into the city centre to collect friends on May 26 when he “lost his temper” and drove his Ford Galaxy directly into supporters making their way home from the Premier League title celebrations.
Dashcam footage from the vehicle, played in court, showed the shocking moments when fans were thrown onto the bonnet of the car or fell underneath as he accelerated down Water Street, which had been closed to traffic, at about 6pm.
Paul Doyle, who could be heard in the footage swearing and shouting at supporters to “move”, had initially denied 31 offences he was charged with.
But last month, moments before the prosecution was due to open his trial, he changed his pleas to admit all the charges.
The former Royal Marine cried as he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, affray, 17 charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, nine counts of causing GBH with intent and three counts of wounding with intent.
The 29 victims named in the indictment ranged in age from six-month-old Teddy Eveson, whose pram was thrown in the air in the crash, and 77-year-old Susan Passey.
Sentencing judge Andrew Menary KC told the defendant he acted in an “inexplicable and undiluted fury” when he ploughed into crowds.
He told Doyle:
“It is almost impossible to comprehend how any right-thinking person could act as you did.
“To drive a vehicle into crowds of pedestrians with such persistence and disregard for human life defies ordinary understanding.”
The judge added:
“Your actions caused horror and devastation on a scale not previously encountered by this court.”
Doyle had travelled to the city centre from his home in Croxteth, Liverpool, to collect friends who had been at the parade.
During his drive into the city he undertook other vehicles and ran a red light.
Footage showed the father-of-three driving down Dale Street, appearing not to slow down despite Liverpool fans filling the roads.
His dashcam footage captured him saying “f pricks” as people pulled their children out of the way to prevent him hitting them.
When he reached a line of cars turning right, away from Water Street which was closed to traffic, he paused before swerving into crowds filling the left lane.
People could be seen on the bonnet of his car and falling underneath as Doyle accelerated into the street.
His car was only brought to a stop when fan Dan Barr climbed into the back seat of the automatic vehicle and held the gearstick in park mode.
Doyle, who has previous convictions for violence in the 1990s, continued to try to accelerate but the car, which had people trapped underneath it by this point, was unable to move further.
When interviewed, he said he had seen someone with a knife and drove in panic for fear he would be attacked, but police found no evidence from CCTV or witnesses that anyone in the area had a knife.
No defects were found with the car and Doyle was not under the influence of drink or drugs.
James Allison, from the Crown Prosecution Service Mersey-Cheshire, said:
“Why did he do it? I think the simple answer is he lost his temper. He went into a rage.
“He just wanted to get down that road, and in trying to get down that road those next couple of minutes probably devastated a lot of people’s lives.”
Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald said:
“Doyle’s total disregard for the safety of others—particularly the many young children present on Dale Street and Water Street that day—is beyond comprehension.
“It is sheer luck that no lives were lost.”
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Bold Street Coffee continues to go from strength to strength having just opened their sixth branch in Glossop Market Hall in Derbyshire.
With further openings planned for 2026, the coming year will mark another major step in the brand’s ongoing expansion across the North West.
Renowned for its specialty coffee and signature buoys Bold Street Coffee has grown significantly since opening its first shop in Liverpool in 2010. Today, the brand operates six thriving locations across the northwest.
In the past year, Bold Street Coffee has also experienced strong growth in its online coffee subscription service, driven by an ever-evolving lineup of varieties and processing methods from origins and producers all around the world. Subscribers set their delivery frequency, brewing preference and sit back whilst they receive their favourite Bold Street Coffees to their doors. The carefully curated offering and commitment to quality has set the Bold Street Coffee subscription apart, making it one of the most distinctive offerings in the region and helping to fuel the brand’s growing community of at-home brewers.
Following the success of 2025, Bold Street Coffee is preparing to launch potentially four new sites in 2026, including: a kiosk and kitchen in Duke Street Market, Liverpool, an outpost at The Climbing Hangar in the Matchworks, Speke (South Liverpool), a Bold Street Coffee roastery and bakery in Wellington Yard Wavertree in Liverpool and several Chester sites are also in the mix.
Each new opening will extend the brand’s mission to deliver exceptional coffee and warm, community-centred spaces to even more neighbourhoods across the northwest.
Matt Farrell, co-founder of GSG Hospitality, said:
“Bold Street Coffee has always been about great coffee, great people and great neighbourhoods. Watching the brand grow this year, both in our stores and through our expanding subscription service, has been incredible. Every new location and every new blend gives us the chance to share our passion with more communities, while staying true to the values that started this journey.”
As Bold Street Coffee continues to grow, its dedication to craft, quality, and community remains at the heart of everything it does.