A south Liverpool dog lover has opened a zoomie park where dogs can have two acres of green space all to themselves to run around.

Anne McKenna created Zoomies Zone in Halewood to give owners somewhere close to the city to let their dogs off the lead safely.

Since it launched in August this year she’s had people coming from as far as Southport with their four-legged pals, either on their own or with friends they can interact well with.

Anne says there’s been a rise in the number of owners wanting a private place where their dogs can have fun without the worry of an incident with another dog or person.

And with American XL bullies due to be added to the list of banned breeds from December 31, meaning they’ll have to be kept muzzled and on a lead in public, she’s expecting that to go up even further.

“There are a lot of reasons why people use a dog park and the obvious one is reactive dogs,” she explains. “That can be reactive to other dogs, sometimes people, sometimes noise, there can be various triggers. 

“Trying to walk a reactive dog is really difficult and it’s not always just your dog. You might take your dog out on a lead and be really sensible, but it could be other people letting their dog run up to yours.

“Those situations can make owners very nervous so to be able to go into an enclosed safe space, where there are high fences and nobody else there and to let them off the lead takes away that anxiety. 

“When you watch what these dogs do when they’re here for the first time, some of them will look as if to say, ‘are you sure mum?’ and others will literally just run like mad the length of the field. It’s just so nice to see that especially when people tell you this is a dog that hasn’t ever been off the lead before.”

Anne says reactive dogs aren’t the only ones coming to Zoomies Zone, she also has dogs that can’t be let off a lead because they have poor recall, bitches on heat, rescue dogs and young dogs out for the first time after their vaccinations, as well as owners who are pregnant or have mobility issues. 

This is her second dog adventure park – she opened the first one in Anglesey in the summer of 2021 to give visitors on holiday somewhere dog-friendly to go apart from the beach. 

Halewood, where she’s from originally, was always a planned site but it proved difficult to make it happen.

“I’m the owner of four Labradors myself and I’ve always wanted to set up a secure park in Liverpool but finding land had proved near-impossible until one of my neighbours was selling this,” she explains. “We now have 16 acres on North End Lane, so we’ve turned two into Zoomies Zone and then we’ve got some woodland and horses grazing.

“As a local girl, it’s always been my dream to have a safe haven for dogs of all ages, sizes, temperaments and breeds while they exercise off lead.

“Not many will run for a full hour so we do have some 30-minute slots. Some dogs don’t run that much at all, they just like to mooch around, explore and sniff because that’s what comes naturally to dogs.”

Anne says she set about creating a space that combines what’s called natural enrichment for dogs, including mature trees, dog-friendly plants and a rainwater pond, with play stuff like obstacles, a tyre mountain and logs for them to climb and toys hanging on ropes.

Owners can choose to book a slot exclusively for their dog or dogs, or share the time with friends or family.

“As long as they know each other and know their dogs can interact well then they can come together. We would never advocate people booking with someone they don’t know, because it’s not a socialisation session for dogs that don’t know each other. 

“Zoomies Zone is to give dogs some fun, either on their own or with others, and when you see them you can see how happy it makes them.”

For more info on Zoomies Zone click HERE.

The living dead are set to take over the streets of Liverpool city centre next month in aid of charity.

Liverpool’s annual Zombie Walk will take place on Sunday 22^nd October with proceeds raised going to support local neurological charity, The Brain Charity.

The event, organised by Scary Evil Events Limited, is open to people of all ages and is suitable for children.

It officially starts at 11am at Ghoulies Haunted House on Dale Street, where members of the public will be transformed into the undead by a group of professional makeup artists. Last entry to become a zombie is at 1:30pm. There is also the option to come already dressed in spooky clothes.

The walk around Liverpool city centre will start at 2pm from Ghoulies Horror Bar and will last around three hours.

After the walk, there will be a beauty pageant for the best looking zombie as well as a brain eating competition with prizes for the winners.

Tickets for the event cost £10 for those wanting the full ‘makeunder’ experience or £5 for others that want to take part in the walk and arrive already undead. Under 10s can participate in the walk for free.  It is recommended to wear old clothes for the experience.

The Brain Charity, previously Neurosupport, has helped hundreds of people living with a neurological condition since 1993. The charity is the only national organisation in the UK which offers support across the spectrum of conditions such as attention deficit disorder, dementia and stroke, rather than just focusing on one condition.

Chief Executive Officer at The Brain Charity, Nanette Mellor, said: “This is a bit of fun for the family and promises to be a great day out. I certainly cannot wait to see Liverpool city centre overrun with zombies!

“We are so thankful for everyone that comes to take part. Money raised by this event will go towards helping people across Merseyside who are often struggling to cope. At The Brain Charity, we pride ourselves in helping absolutely everyone that comes through our doors, providing them with access to emotional support, practical help and social activities.”

The Brain Charity is based on Norton Street and is open Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm.

To buy tickets, visit www.thebraincharity.org.uk/shop/buy-now. Struggling for inspiration in how to be a zombie? Visit The Brain Charity’s ‘Guide To Becoming A Zombie’ on the website.

For more information about the event, search Ghoulies Haunted House and The Liverpool Zombie Walk on Facebook and Twitter.

Zoe’s Place is a baby hospice based in West Derby, Liverpool

Much-loved baby hospice Zoe’s Place is on the lookout for a new home.

And the charity says it means the chance to spread its wings and take it ‘forward into the next chapter’.

Matt Meaney, head of fundraising, says: “This is not a panic thing, we are coming to the end of a long lease, and it’s an opportunity to reflect on the changes in the organisation and acquire premises that are going to take us through the next 30 years.”

The specialist hospice has been in its current home in Yew Tree Lane, West Derby, since it was founded 28 years ago in 1995.

But the end of its current lease in mid-2025, means the organisation needs to find somewhere new, and preparations are already underway to make sure that everything is in place for a smooth and successful transition, and that the new building enables it to offer all of its current services and more, and continues to offer the invaluable support for which it’s renowned.

Zoë’s Place provides a short break service, as well as palliative and end-of-life care to babies and infants aged from birth to five years, living with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

Matt continues: “We are looking for something in the same sort of area and which delivers the same level of services, and allows us to spread our wings and do a little more in the future, as the opportunities arise.

“There’s not some great big master plan, this is not a reaction to a crisis or problem, it is about taking the next long-term measures for the organisation, so it feels that the real story’s going to come at the other end of the process when we’ve got people cutting ribbons!”

Zoe’s Place says it will be looking at all options from a new building to an older one: “To be honest, nothing is off the table,” says Matt. “We are exploring all sorts of options and it will be somewhat dictated by what’s available, but we have some things that are high on our shopping list that we would like, and we appreciate that some things will have to flex as we look.

“We are not in a particular rush. We have to find the right building. 

“We want more space to be able to spread our wings, as I said, and do more services; and we are keen to be able to provide services as and when the need arises, we don’t want to be restricted in the future by a building.”

That’s not that the charity has been hampered in the past: “We have the team that finds a way if there’s a need, or we have so far, but we will come to the point where we are running out of options in this building to be able to do that.

“With reputation and need, comes the need for more facilities, and enhancing the level of service we provide to the families we already work with.

“Any well-run charity will reflect periodically on their premises and all it provides, and this happens to coincide with the end of our lease.

“It’s something we see as a positive move.”

And Matt adds: “We have been keen to release news of the move early on because we are acutely aware that the success of Zoe’s Place has been built on the generosity of local communities for very nearly 30 years and we genuinely wouldn’t be here without them behind us. So if we are going to make big changes like where we are based, it’s only appropriate that we are up front and that they hear it from us.”

Joan Stainsby, executive trustee, says: “We are confident that we will identify a new home this year. We will then undertake any building or refurbishment works necessary to ensure we can continue to provide the high-quality services to children that our families value.

“For now, it is very much business as usual.”

Visit the Zoe’s Place website here.

Get the latest for Liverpool HERE.

Liverpool Zoe’s Place is inviting members of the public to help shape the future of the beloved children’s hospice with the launch of its Same Heart, Fresh Start competition.

The campaign calls on supporters to suggest a new name and design a new mascot for Zoe’s Place, with the winning entry to be revealed on stage at a spectacular fundraising concert at the M&S Bank Arena on Wednesday 17th July 2025 with performances from some of Liverpool’s biggest musical names like Jamie Webster, The Zutons and The Lightning Seeds.

The rebranding comes as the hospice moves into a new chapter as an independent charity, following a remarkable public fundraising effort last year that helped save the charity from closure. The charity will now move forward under a new name – and it’s asking the community to help make that happen.

To support the campaign, schools and community centres across Liverpool can request a visit from the Zoe’s Place branded campervans via the online entry form. These visits offer a chance to meet staff and trustees, learn more about the rebrand and hand-deliver competition entries.

Michelle, Head of Care at Liverpool Zoe’s Place, said:

We’re so incredibly grateful for the enormous amount of support we’ve seen from our local communities – particularly over the past six months. Now as we step into an exciting new chapter, we want to invite you to continue on the journey with us! We are inviting our friends, supporters and local communities to help us to choose a new name and logo for our charity – and we’re hosting a fabulous concert on 17th July to unveil our new brand and to say thank you for the incredible support we’ve received. It’s going to be a brilliant night and we can’t wait to see lots of you there!

Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby and lead organiser of the concert, added:

Zoe’s Place has always been a vital part of our community – a place of compassion, love and expert care for families facing the toughest of times. When its future was in jeopardy, Liverpool came together to fight for it,and now it’s time to celebrate everything that’s been achieved. The Same Heart, Fresh Start competition is about giving people a stake in the next chapter. The concert will be a night of music, unity and pride in our city – and I can’t wait to stand on that stage and celebrate with everyone who made it possible.

How to Enter

Entries can be submitted online or dropped off in person at participating Merseyrail stations, Home Bargains stores and community hubs across the region.

Merseyrail drop-off points include:

Liverpool Central, Southport, Ormskirk, Liverpool South Parkway, Moorfields, Headbolt Lane, New Brighton, Hamilton Square, West Kirby and Lime Street.

Home Bargains drop-off points include:

Aigburth, Bootle Strand, Litherland, Liverpool Road North (Maghull), Audley Street, Bold Street, County Road 2, Crosby, Edge Lane, Great Homer Street, Kirkby 2, Old Swan, Speke, Axis, Belle Vale, Huyton, Norris Green, Bidston Moss, Hoylake and New Brighton.

Other drop-off locations include:

Croxteth Park Farm, Otterspool Adventureland and Liverpool Zoe’s Place (West Derby).

Schools can also get involved:

Local schools are encouraged to request a visit from the Liverpool Zoe’s Place campervan and mascot to collect competition entries in person. Schools can register their interest here. 

What Happens Next

All entries will be reviewed by a judging panel and finalists will be shortlisted and invited to attend the M&S Bank Arena concert, where the winning name and mascot will be revealed live on stage. You can buy tickets for the concert here.

Key Dates

Competition closes: 6th July 2025
Concert and winner reveal: 17th July 2025 at the Same Heart, Fresh Start concert at the M&S Bank Arena.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.

The city region is pulling together to help save Zoe’s Place after the Liverpool baby hospice announced it was being forced to close.

Zoe’s Place fundraising boss Matt Meaney says he has never seen anything like the support that’s flooded in for the Liverpool baby hospice.

“I have been working in the charity sector for 20 years and I have never seen anything like it, let alone be involved in something like it,” he reveals.

“The outpouring of support is like nothing that anybody expected.”

Matt, head of fundraising, adds: “Within the space of a week we have gone from ‘we are closing Zoe’s Place Liverpool’ to the public rallying behind the cause and saying ‘we are going to do everything we can to try to make sure that doesn’t happen’.

“Influencers and businesses, celebrities, MPs, the general public, families and staff, everybody has done everything they possibly can.  It’s been absolutely incredible.”

Zoe’s Place, which supports babies and young children who have complex illnesses or disabilities from birth to age five, needs to raise £5m in 30 days to secure a new home in Liverpool.

It had run out of hope because time taken to get planning permission to create a new hospice left insufficient time left to construct the building before the organisation’s current lease runs out. With that compounded by a rise in projected costs which left insufficient funds available, the Yew Tree Lane charity announced it would have to close its doors.

Matt says: “No-one is under any illusions that this is an enormous challenge, to hit £5m in 30 days in any climate, and certainly in the current climate. But I have been saying from the very first day, if there’s any city that can do this, it’s definitely Liverpool.

“It’s a huge, huge mountain to climb but we believe if any city can do it, it’s Liverpool.

“We know how important and how special Zoe’s Place is because we see the families every single day and the challenge is trying to help other people to understand how important Zoe’s Place is.  I think the outpouring of support from the media, and from our local MP Ian Byrne, has helped to connect people to understanding Zoe’s Place is simply somewhere we can’t afford to lose in this city.”

There is much praise for Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby.

“He has been incredible, as has the media,” says Matt. “The support we have had from local and national media has been out of this world. 

“A definite turning point was when Ian Byrne went live and said we’re going to do everything we can to save Zoe’s Place. He is working with our board and supporting our board and pulling together a network of contacts to deal with some of the technical challenges behind this. 

“We were very clear that, as well as money, this was also a buildings problem and there are hurdles to overcome to make a building happen in time. Ian is working with people to try to make that happen as well. So he has been absolutely incredible.”

Matt admits that Zoe’s Place isn’t out of the woods yet.

“Let’s not downplay the size of this,” he stresses. “We have still got a way to go. We still need people’s support, we need people to continue to raise money, to continue to spread the word, and continue to push everybody they know to support Zoe’s Place.

“But … we are in a completely different place to where we were on October 7 when the announcement was made that we were closing. We are definitely in a more positive position than we were a week ago.

“Everyone has to feel more hope. 

“There is a possibility that we stand a fighting chance.”

For more info on Zoe’s Place click here.

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

The appeal to secure a new home for Liverpool’s cherished baby hospice, Zoe’s Place, has been a success, raising an astonishing £7.5 million—far surpassing the original £5 million goal.

Launched by local MP Ian Byrne, the campaign to save Zoe’s Place was initiated to address soaring construction costs for the new hospice building after the lease on the existing property came to an end.

The final total includes £3.8 million in cash contributions, supported by Gift Aid, and £3.7 million in pledges, including a monumental £2.5 million donation from Home Bargains.

Joan Stainsby, executive trustee, said:

“The sums of money that have been raised as a result of Ian Byrne’s appeal are astonishing. The trustees feel so fortunate that the people and organisations of Liverpool and beyond have rallied behind the hospice, and that it now has a secure future.”

Ian Byrne, the MP behind the fundraising appeal, said:

“I am staggered by the generosity of people in our city and it is only because of them that we can look to a future to provide modern facilities for children who need them. I cannot thank the people of Liverpool enough.  That is the best Christmas present that I could have asked for.”

The majority of the funds raised will go towards the building of a  state of the art new centre for children and families in Liverpool  on the site of a former bowling green at Hayman’s Green, West Derby.

The remaining funds will be used to fund the operation of the Liverpool hospice. 

They still, however, desperately need your support to meet the day to day running costs to ensure they can continue to provide care and support to the children and families of Liverpool into the future. 

If you would like to support please visit their main Just Giving page Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice – Liverpool – JustGiving.

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

Liverpool Ice Festival has brought smiles to thousands so far this winter as their second year on the Pier Head is in full icy swing.

Tomorrow (Thursday) a special charity event will be held from 6-9pm, raising money for charities across the country including Liverpool’s very own Zoe’s Place.

READ MORE: 7 reasons why you need to check out the Liverpool Ice Festival

King of the dance floor at the moment, Anton Powers will be on hand to provide the tunes, and local lad Liam Hincks will also take to the decks. 50% of every ticket sold will go to Global’s Make Some Noise.

James Anderson, Arena Ice Commercial Director says: “This is our second year at Liverpool’s iconic Pier Head and the charity skate – is in support of Global’s Make Some Noise, which gives a voice to small charities and projects across the UK that struggle to raise awareness, including Zoe’s Place in Liverpool.”

Anyone wanting to join in and skate for a great cause can purchase tickets at www.icefestivalliverpool.co.uk. 

Adult skate tickets are priced £11.50 / teenagers13-15, OAPs, students & concs £10.50/children 3-12 years £9.50/family (2+2 or 3+1) £36.

James Anderson, Arena Ice Commercial Director says: “This is our second year at Liverpool’s iconic Pier Head and the charity skate – is in support of Global’s Make Some Noise, which gives a voice to small charities and projects across the UK that struggle to raise awareness, including Zoe’s Place in Liverpool.”

Liverpool Christmas Ice Festival

This years Liverpool Ice Festival runs throughout Christmas and is open daily, seven days a week. This year the new Ice Blast ride and Santa’s brand new Grotto joins regular favourite attractions the Ice Bar, Christmas Market, 30ft Ice Slide and that mighty icy Ferris Wheel.

Keep up to date with the Liverpool Ice Festival on Twitter and send us your selfies from the Pier Head too @TheGuideLpool.

Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice has launched an urgent Capital Appeal, calling on its supporters, businesses and individuals within the community to help raise £3.5m for a new state-of-the-art home in Liverpool.

For the last 28 years, Liverpool’s only hospice for babies and children aged 0 – 5 years with life-limiting and complex conditions has been a lifeline for hundreds of families in the region.

However, Zoe’s Place now urgently needs generous help and support from Liverpool’s community to reach its £3.5m target to fund its new home and continue delivering its outstanding, child-centred care when its current lease comes to an end in 2025.

Aimee Clare, Capital Appeal Lead at Zoe’s Place, said:

“Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice is an incredibly special place, providing specialist and essential care to our babies and their families at a time when they need it the most.

“It’s a place of happiness, relief and is a true lifeline for those who need it, allowing families to be together and experience the joy of childhood, which can easily be taken for granted by many of us.

“I’m urging the business community, our generous supporters and new fundraisers to activate and help us at this pivotal time so we can build a new home and continue to provide outstanding and specialist care and support to the children and families who really need us. 

“If lots of people give a little, we will quickly raise a lot and together we can build a new home and hospice for Liverpool to be incredibly proud of.”

Zoe’s Place delivers respite, palliative and bereavement care for the whole family and has recently been awarded ‘Outstanding on Care’ status by the CQC.

Robyn Perry is two and a half years old and living with Spina Bifida and Kyphosis. Her mum, Stephanie Perry says that Zoe’s Place has been amazing for her and her family:

“When we found Zoe’s Place last year it was a lifesaver, it felt like home as soon as we walked in. 

“I don’t trust many people with [Robyn] because of the needs that she’s got and it was hard leaving her at first, but I did and it was the best thing ever, it’s amazing for her, she loves it, she gets to play and do sensory – everything that keeps her stimulated and that gives me time with my other kids.”

Planning Permission for a new, single-storey extension was submitted on Monday 18 March to transform the former bowling green at Hayman’s Green, West Derby into a first-class, purpose-built, facility for Zoe’s Place families.

Community events will also be arranged in the coming months to share plans and information about the new development.

Michael Cunningham, Zoe’s Place trustee and former architect at Mersey Design Group, said:

“Being able to bring my architectural experience to my new trustee role at Zoe’s Place at a time when we’re launching this ambitious project is an honour and I’m determined to see these plans brought to fruition. 

“Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the impact of designing spaces that not only serve the practical needs of a building but also embrace the spirit of those within and the work that they’re doing.

“Since joining the Zoe’s Place team I’ve experienced the outstanding care, support and comfort that is offered to the babies, children and families that come through these doors and my mission is to keep those doors open for many years to come.”

Zoe’s Place will be launching several fundraising initiatives throughout the campaign, the first being ‘The 150’, which encourages 150 businesses to sign up and donate £1000 to the Zoe’s Place Capital Appeal through their own fundraising efforts.

The first company to sign up for ‘The 150’ and support the Capital Appeal is The Anfield Wrap, which delivers the latest news from Liverpool Football Club.

John Gibbons, Head of Partnerships at The Anfield Wrap, said:

“As soon as we heard about the Zoe’s Place Capital Appeal and ‘The 150′ we immediately signed up. 

“The City of Liverpool is great at coming together and supporting each other when people most need it, and Zoe’s Place really needs our support right now! 

“All our team have embraced the challenge of raising the money, coming up with lots of creative ideas to help. 

“I’m sure we can get 149 more businesses in the city to step up and ensure Zoe’s Place continues to deliver their incredible service in their new home for many years to come.”

Donations can be made to the Zoe’s Place Capital Appeal here. More information on how your business can become part of ‘The 150’ can be found here.

Castle Street is welcoming a brand-new addition to its foodie scene this week, as Zeus Taverna opens its doors on Thursday, 3rd April, bringing the flavours of Santorini straight to the city centre! 

Stepping into Zeus Taverna feels like arriving on a Greek island. With textured whitewashed walls, turquoise accents, hand-painted murals of gods and goddesses, and trailing floral decorations, the whole place oozes authentic Mediterranean charm. There’s even a luminated cave feature to mirror Santorini’s famous grotto-like architecture.

And let’s talk about the food, expect a mouth-watering menu of Greek tapas and small plates, including souvlaki, moussaka, kleftiko, tzatziki, and dolmades. Plus, seafood lovers are in for a treat, with fresh octopus, prawns, mussels, and speciality salads making their way onto the menu. 

A spokesperson for Zeus Taverna said:

“The refurbishment was both enjoyable and challenging. We put so much effort into ensuring every part of the restuarant captures the spirit of Greece. The textured walls reflect the architecture of Santorini, the blue quartz tables and bar represent the sea, and our floral decor complements the traditional features. Alongside our traditional Greek favourites, we’ve carefully selected 15 brand-new dishes to bring something fresh to the Liverpool food scene.”

Open on Thursday, 3rd April, find Zeus Taverna at 44 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 7LA.

Book a table for Zeus Taverna here.

Find out more at TheGuideLiverpool.com

Two bartenders from Liverpool have embarked on an ambitious mission to raise limoncello to the status of gin.

Andy Oyeneyin and Seamus Sullivan founded Zest Limoncello in 2020, becoming Merseyside’s only limoncello producer and supplier, and have taken the city by storm — with their range now in over 40 bars and restaurants.

After experimenting with limoncello during lockdowns, the two cocktail barmen created the unique brand — offering a number of flavours such as original, lime, blood orange and blackberry. Most popular as a refreshing spritz (with Prosecco and soda), they have caused quite the ‘stir’ and have been endorsed by celebrity chef Paul Askew and Dragon’s Den star John Tague.

Zest Limoncello supplies to some of Liverpool’s most reputable hospitality venues, such as Barnacle, The Art School, Luca and Justino’s, and many businesses say it has been a unique selling point. From just £13 per bottle and enjoyed either straight, on the rocks, in a spritz or in a cocktail, demand has increased due to its overwhelming popularity.

Andy and Seamus use the finest fresh fruit in their limoncello and have become a zero waste business — using the fruit syrup and skins to make seasoning, sauces, candles and wax melts. They also have a policy of giving customers £1 back for returned bottles — of which there are many due to it flying out!

Andy said: 

“Limoncello has always been seen as an after dinner drink, something you’d typically have in an Italian restaurant as a quirky palate cleanser following your meal. Attitudes are changing though, as people are starting to realise how refreshing it is when made right — especially as a spritz and with different flavours in addition to the standard lemon.”

Zest Limoncello started out as a side hustle for the two barmen, but they are now having to work very hard to keep up with demand — with talk of investment, taking on employees and becoming wholesale supplier. The two friends are aiming to revolutionise limoncello and make it as popular and mainstream as gin has become.

Seamus explained: 

“As with everyone, lockdowns gave us the chance to play around with ideas and experiment. Andy and I started talking about limoncello and before we knew it we were making spritzes and cocktails with it — before moving on to actually making it from scratch, with different flavours.”

He continued: 

“We started off selling it to the bar where we worked at and to friends but we never imagined it would grow so big so quickly. Word of mouth spread like wildfire and the feedback from businesses was unreal and as we’ve evolved we’ve got more creative — making seasoning, sauces, candles and wax melts from the fruit. People love it!”

Limoncello isan Italian lemon liqueur mainly produced inSouthern Italy, especially in the region around the Sorrentine Peninsula and the coast of Amalfi. It is the second-most popular liqueur in Italy, however it is not as popular in the UK — with drinks such as gin and Prosecco taking centre stage. Andy and Seamus are looking to change that and revolutionise the drinks industry in the process.

Andy said: 

“We honestly believe that limoncello can be the new gin. Once people discover how refreshing it is, especially as a spritz with Prosecco and soda or in a cocktail, they often say it’s their favourite drink. Zest Limoncello offers that extra bit of flavour and as we’re one of the UK’s only producers and suppliers, we are in control of the process and ingredients.”

Zest Limoncello is vegan, gluten free and is made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Consisting of fresh lemons (or other fruits), premium grain vodka, raw organic cane sugar and fresh mineral water, Zest Limoncello offers that fresh Amalfi feel with every sip.

Seamus summarized: 

“It’s crazy how popular Zest has become, considering it was just an experimental thing for us when we started out. We’ve become really creative with it and have become experts — when we supply to people and businesses we like to pass on our knowledge so that people can get the best out of our products. We’re so passionate about it!”

Zest Limoncello is based in South Liverpool and offers a range of different flavours such as original, lime, blood orange and blackberry. Founded by Andy Oyeneyin and Seamus Sullivan, their bottles start at just £13 — supplying to both businesses and individuals, with potential expansion and wholesale supply coming soon.

For more information on Zest Limoncello click HERE.

Zero Waste Liverpool is preparing to give away more food than ever from supermarkets and restaurants this Christmas Eve, absolutely free, to save it going to landfill.

Zero Waste Liverpool has had its busiest run-up to Christmas this year, collecting and giving out thousands of bags full of everything from fresh fruit and veg to mince pies, cakes, cheeses and even Christmas trees.

Now its gearing up for three huge events on Christmas Eve as supermarkets clear their shelves and donate before they close up for the big day.

Kathryn Bowman, one of the founders of Zero Waste Liverpool, says the volume of food has grown so much they’ve added an extra date in Prescot just to make sure it all goes to a good home.

“We work with over 100 businesses in Liverpool now which includes all the major supermarkets except Morrison’s, so Aldi, Lidl, Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Iceland, Co-op, Food Warehouse and M&S.

“But it’s not just supermarkets, we also pick up from Sodexo the Arena and restaurant chains like Frankie & Benny’s, KFC, Nando’s and Pret A Manger, so it’s good that other places in the city are getting to know about us. 

“We probably have about 200 volunteers in the city and we also have events in Wirral, Warrington, St Helens and London Borough of Redbridge.

“On Christmas Eve our volunteers will be out from 8am collecting. We have rotas right through the day because some supermarkets need 2,3 or 4 cars, then we have a big standby team waiting to be directed where to go when we get shout-outs.”

Kathryn stresses that Zero Waste Liverpool events aren’t foodbanks or food pantries, they’re an environmentally-friendly way of preventing food from being dumped.

“It’s not about people needing food, we need people there to take this surplus food and stop it going to waste, so the more that turn up the happier we are!”

The three Christmas Eve events, in L19, Dovecot and Prescot, start at 6.30pm but Kathryn says there’s no need to get there for doors opening.

“People do sometimes think that they need to get there early to get the best stuff but that’s not the case because we have food rolling in throughout the night depending on when the shops shut. 

“We’re there until it’s gone and that’s usually about 9pm which is when the volunteers get to go home and have their own family Christmases.”

Although handling such a large amount of food donations isn’t an easy task, Kathryn says it’s enjoyable for everyone, including young volunteers who’ve helped out through the year at regular weekly events.

“It is hectic but that’s part of the fun and the atmosphere in the halls is amazing,” she adds. “Even the queues are a nice social time and some people do go early especially for that. The volunteers know the regulars and have a chat, and we’ve had lots of gifts and tins of chocolates from people which has been really lovely.”

As for what will be waiting for collection at the events on Christmas Eve, that’s anyone’s guess.

“We’ve no idea exactly what we’re going to get, it can be completely random. 

“We’ll be getting carloads of the fresh fruit and veg, the things that are marked down to 15p now, because the supermarkets don’t want to be left with that after Christmas Eve.

“But the value of the food people can get varies so much, anything from a15p bag of carrots to a boxed M&S Collection beef in wine sauce that should have been £25.”

There’s no need to book for the Christmas Eve events, just turn up with a bag and everything is given out free. 

This year’s are at:  

• All Souls Church, Springwood Ave, L19
• Church of the Holy Spirit, Dovecot 
• Prescot Methodist Centre

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

Since opening, just over 2 years ago, Zenn, based on Victoria Street in the heart of Liverpool city centre, has built a loyal customer base as the place to be seen, party, relax and enjoy its Asian-inspired dishes and luxe drinks menu.

Zenn’s rooftop bar has also become the city’s ultimate get-together destination, with its roster of laid-back DJs and unique views over the Liverpool skyline. 

Offering many experiences in one place, Zenn is centred around its unique Asian-inspired menu, a slick selection of drinks, a stimulating soundtrack and sophisticated atmosphere, served up in a specially crafted social space. The 350-seat venue with its contemporary architecture and glass-fronted ground floor area. Whether guests choose to dine, dance or relax this location is the perfect  backdrop for Summer 2024.

As we are now into the summer months the “Zenn Rooftop BBQ Menu” has now launched and is available every Saturday 12-8pm.

Zenn Head Chef said:

“ Following on from our last few successful summers we are pleased to launch our ‘Zenn Rooftop BBQ Menu.’ A great way to spend summer days is spent relaxing and unwinding on Zenn’s rooftop terrace, enjoying our bbq food, delicious steaks, burgers and salads which are all freshly made to order.”

Find more informarion on the Zenn website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

The singer’s first record Mind Of Mine soared to the top of the charts after his exit from the band, following him leaving One Direction eight years ago citing “stress”.

Zayn Malik says he left One Direction because band members got “sick of each other” and he “completely selfishly” wanted to be the first to make a solo album.

One Direction – consisting also of Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson – then went on indefinite hiatus in 2016.

In his first sit-down interview in years, Malik was asked on the Call Her Daddy podcast about his decision to exit.

He said: “I don’t want to go into too much detail, but there was a lot of politics going on, so people were doing certain things, so people didn’t want to sign contracts, so I knew something was happening.

“So I just got ahead of the curve, if I’m being honest with you, I was like, I’m just going to get out of here.

“I think this is done and I just seen it, and I completely selfishly wanted to be the first person to go and make my own record.

The 30-year-old Bradford-born singer added that there was “underlying issues” with their friendship as well.

Zayn said: “We’d been together every day for five years and we’d got sick of each other… so we were close.

“We (did) crazy things with each other and that nobody else in the world will ever understand or have them.

“I look back on it now in a much fonder light than I would have you know as I just left.”

Malik is set to release Love Like This this month following his last charted single Vibez coming out in 2021.

He shares a daughter Khai, two, with US catwalk star Gigi Hadid, who he said has brought “colour” back into his adult life.

The pair have since separated, but Malik said they shared a “really good” co-parenting relationship.

He said: “Khai is the main importance, so yeah it’s going well… I think.”

In October 2021, Malik pleaded no contest to claims of harassment after allegedly launching a tirade against Hadid’s mother, 57-year-old Dutch-American socialite Yolanda Hadid.

He was placed on 90 days probation on all four counts for a total of 360 days, and was told to complete an anger management class and a domestic violence programme.

Zayn said that despite the online fallout, he felt he had handled the situation “in an amicable, respectful way” and had not wanted to get into a “negative back-and-forth” about the incident.

“I don’t tend to get involved when people say stuff online, whether it’s got something to do with me or it doesn’t because for me my most valuable thing I have in life is time,” he said.

“(It) takes so much time in a toxic environment to explain yourself to people and justify this – so I just kind of keep to myself.”

He continued: “I knew what the situation was. I knew what happened and the people involved knew what happened – and that’s all I really cared about.

“I just didn’t want to bring attention (to it) or get into a negative back-and-forth or any sort of narrative online where my daughter was going to look back and read that.

“I believe I dealt with it in the best way, in an amicable respectful way and that’s all that needs to be said – feel like there’s a lot of negativity.”

For more music news click HERE.

Liverpool ONE has announced that Inditex-owned fashion brand, Zara, has opened its significantly upsized flagship on upper and lower South John Street.

The new 42,000 sq ft store is the latest example of brand investment in the destination, following a landmark year of signings that will make 2025 Liverpool ONE’s biggest year for openings since it launched in 2008.

Increasing in size by 55% from 27,200 sq ft to 42,000 sq ft, Zara’s new Liverpool ONE store offers a larger collection of Zara’s menswear, womenswear, and childrenswear across two floors. Together with a more spacious interior, the flagship places the customer experience at the forefront, adopting the brand’s latest innovative technologies such as self-service payment facilities.

Rob Deacon, Asset Management Director at Liverpool ONE, said:

“Liverpool ONE is defined by its leading mix of brands and ability to deliver the best of the best, and the opening of Zara’s significantly upsized regional flagship is the perfect example of this.  Demand for Liverpool ONE is at an all-time high, with leading brands recognising its appeal as a destination for flagships and showcase spaces.

“2024 was a milestone year for big-name signings and 2025 will be our biggest year for openings yet, with UNIQLO, Sephora and TFG London set to make their debuts.”

Zara is one of 22 brands with a total combined footprint of 135,000 sq ft that have invested in their existing stores at Liverpool ONE since the beginning of 2024. A further 34 brands committed to the destination last year, covering a total of 200,000 sq ft. This includes UNIQLO, which is set to make its city debut on Paradise Street in a 25,000 sq ft flagship, a 7,5000 sq ft Sephora, and, at 12,000 sq ft, the biggest-ever multi-brand flagship from fashion retail group, TFG London.

As well as permanent signings, Liverpool ONE welcomed a series of short-term lets throughout 2024, including AllSaints, Curated Makers, and Noughts and Crosses. The destination has also played host to the physical debuts of clicks-to-bricks brands such as Luxe Collective, Sisters & Seekers, Glamify Fashion, and more recently, Applied Nutrition x Yelir.

Find more information on the Zara website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

The Big Eurovision Welcome will take place outside St George’s Hall in Liverpool on Sunday 7^th May.

Zara Larsson and Liverpool’s Cream Classical will be opening the show at The National Lottery’s Big Eurovision Welcome.

Frankie Goes To Hollywood has also been announced, making their first public appearance together in over 36 years. Conchita Wurst, Jamala, Atomic Kitten, The Real Thing and Lightning Seeds will also be joining in the celebrations on stage.

The National Lottery’s Big Eurovision Welcome takes place on Sunday 7 May in Liverpool’s St. George’s Square in front of an audience of 25,000. Combining world-class music, aerial performances, projection mapping, drones display, fireworks and much more.

Hosted by Joel Dommett and AJ Odudu, the show celebrates both Eurovision and Liverpool, hosting the song competition final this year on behalf of Ukraine.  

There will be multiple musical performances, all of which have been specially curated and include collaborations with arts groups such as LIPA (Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts), Motionhouse, House of Suarez, Zoo Nation, Liverpool Signing Choir and many more.

Get the latest Eurovision news for Liverpool HERE.

Special moments will include Liverpool legends Ricky Tomlinson and Shirley Ballas, delivering their own special ‘love letters’ to Liverpool and its iconic history, written by children’s author Frank Cottrell Boyce and Liverpool poet Pauline McAdam respectively. RuPaul’s Drag Race winner The Vivienne will perform, paying tribute to a Eurovision ABBA classic, and a ‘powerful women’ section will pay tribute to some of the Liverpool women who have made a real difference.

There’ll be a unique performance of The Beatles All You Need is Love, featuring multiple guest artists and original projection-mapped. European dance pop royalty Zara Larsson and Liverpool’s iconic Cream Classical will perform with a unique collaboration of You Got The Love. This spectacular end to the show will feature stunning aerial choreography and drones.

Tickets for National Lottery players to attend the show are free* and available from bigeurovisionwelcome.co.uk as a thank you to the National Lottery players for the £330M they have contributed to over 3,600 music and cultural projects in Liverpool alone. Those booking tickets will be required to confirm they have a National Lottery ticket that they can present on the day of the event. 

Highlights of The National Lottery’s Big Eurovision Welcome will air on BBC One and BBC

iPlayer on Monday 8th May as part of a special programme, ‘Eurovision Welcomes The World’.

For further details, National Lottery players should go to the website HERE.

Liverpool’s retail scene is set for a major boost as global fashion giant Zara announces plans for a significant expansion of its flagship store in Liverpool.

The expansion will see Zara’s existing location in Liverpool ONE grow from 27,200 sq ft to an impressive 42,000 sq ft, offering an even wider array of options across its menswear, womenswear, and kidswear ranges.

But it’s not just about the extra space; Zara plans to incorporate its cutting-edge technologies into the new store, including self-service areas and online collection points, to provide customers with a seamless and enhanced shopping experience.

Rob Deacon, Director of Asset Management at Grosvenor, said:

“Zara choosing to increase their investment in Liverpool ONE is a testament to the location’s reputation as a destination for flagships. As one of Liverpool ONE’s leading retailers, we have no doubt that the upsized anchor store will only serve to strengthen Zara’s sustained demand and loyal customer base in Liverpool.”

Zara’s upsize joins the growing list of leading brands that have chosen to further invest in Liverpool ONE, including international brands BOSS, Hollister, and Goldsmiths.

The expansion of Zara increases the total trading footprint of Inditex-owned brands within the scheme to a significant 68,000 sq ft, marking the significant continued investment from the global retail giant, following the openings of Bershka and Stradivarius, and the upsize of Pull&Bear. 

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

Yesterday YouTube – in partnership with Liverpool’s Creative Kitchen – held a special panel discussion event at Avenue HQ, giving attendees the chance to learn about how they can use YouTube to support their business growth and marketing.

The joint panel and discussion, designed to share valuable YouTube platform knowledge and tips, was attended by over 50 professionals and business entrepreneurs from across the creative, digital and tech sectors in Liverpool.

Speaking at the event was Lucy Banks – YouTube’s Head of Content for Brands for Europe, Middle East and Africa. Lucy, who studied at the University of Liverpool, provided attendees with commercial insights from the platform alongside tips and advice to help inspire Liverpool’s next generation of creative business leaders.

MORE: Royal Albert Dock in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate UK Travelist 2019

Lucy Banks

Also in attendance were Andy Castell (1.4 million subs) and Lucy Woods (181,000 subs)  – two prominent YouTube creators from Liverpool who have successfully built businesses and communities through their individual YouTube channels;

FIFA Creator Andy, better known as AJ3, uses his channel to post animated and entertaining pack openings and FIFA battles against the biggest members of his community, and has worked on branded content campaigns with the likes of XBOX, Dominoes and Nike. His most recent work has seen him host the Coca-Cola and Premier League trophy tour.

Andy Castell AKA AJ3

Meanwhile, Lucy Wood discusses important topics on her channel, such as body image and self-confidence, using YouTube to build and grow a positive and supportive community. She also creates entertaining and light-hearted content around her university degree, along with shopping hauls, fashion trends and her travels.

Lucy Wood

They shared information on how they got started, their experience on the platform, how they’ve grown their communities, and how they’ve successfully been able to leverage commercial success.

Lucy Banks, Head of Content for Brands – EMEA, commented: “Having studied at the University of Liverpool, it’s been fantastic to return to the city where it all started for me. Liverpool is a thriving and rapidly growing centre for creativity and business growth, so it was a real pleasure to share valuable YouTube advice, knowledge and insights with such an array of talented business leaders from across the city. We hope the event will equip them with plenty of knowledge to use YouTube as a valuable business and marketing platform in the future.”

MORE: New appointments for LCR Pride Foundation Board

Mashbo Managing Director and Founder of Creative Kitchen, Gavin Sherratt, said: “Today’s event showcased just how powerful video content can be when properly leveraged and how YouTube can be used to grow and develop businesses and communities. Andy and Lucy are fantastic examples of the talent that is thriving in the Liverpool City Region.

Creative Kitchen was established provide businesses of all sized access to knowledge sharing and best practice, so bringing a global company of YouTube’s stature to Liverpool and connecting the brand with the incredible businesses and organisations that we have in the city has been a real honour for us.”

For more information on Creative Kitchen, visit their website here and also check out Avenue HQ here.

Get all of the latest news for Liverpool and beyond here.

Got a story you would like to share with us? Email us at info@theguideliverpool.com and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for regular updates for Liverpool.

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