With less than a week before Halloween, families looking to do something a little bit different are invited to dine at the bewitching Café at the Edge of the Woods.

Liverpool charity The Reader is throwing its very first Fangtastic Family Feast, an immersive experience inspired by BAFTA award-winning writer Mikey Please’s new picture book. It will take place on Saturday 2 November at 11am and 4pm, in collaboration with the publishers, Harper Collins Children’s Books.

As part of the experience, four to nine-year-olds can meet The Reader’s head chef, create a ghastly potion, and take a trip to The Café at the Edge of the Woods at the haunted Grade II listed Mansion House in Calderstones Park, which has been at the centre of many ghost stories and paranormal rumours over the years.

Fancy dress is encouraged as children and their grown-ups will tuck into a ghoulish two-course feast including pickled bats, slugs in goo and maggot fondue.

Lemony Snicket meets Jon Klassen meets Grimms’ fairy tales in this outrageously original children’s story, published in September 2024. Restauranteur Rene’s dreams have finally come true. She has opened a café beside an enchanted wood, and with the help of a newfound waiter, Glumfoot, she is ready to serve the finest cuisine. 

But the locals seem to favour a most peculiar palette, requesting all sorts of disgusting things. Can Glumfoot’s quick-thinking save the day?

Liverpool families will join Rene and Glumfoot in this incredible other-worldly story full of magical humour, mythical creatures and culinary curiosities. 

The book’s author Mickey Please is also creator and codirector of Oscar-nominated children’s animation film, Robin Robin, as shown on Netflix. Based in London he studied at Wimbledon School of Art, the Royal College of Art and is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

What’s on the menu?

For children:

• Monster Mocktail: special slushy 
• Fried Poops: fried chipolatas with vampire blood (tomato ketchup) or a vegan option of Pitted dates with beetroot and apple 
• Monsters Eyes: chicken nuggets, topped with an olive or a vegan option of vegan nugget, topped with an olive
• Maggot Fondue: cheesy orzo pasta or vegan option of orzo pasta in sweet potato cheese sauce
• Spooky Fruit Salad: mandarin, lychee and blackberry fruit salad 
• Trash Pick ‘n’ Mix: pretzel pieces, gummy worms, chocolate-covered candy pieces, popcorn and dried fruit

For adults: 

• Creepy Cocktail: special alcoholic slushy (a non-alcoholic alternative is also available)
• Pickled Bats: Miso caramelized red onion tart with mature cheddar and pickled artichoke. A vegan option is available on request
• Maggot Fondue: cheesy orzo pasta or vegan option of orzo pasta with sweet potato cheese sauce
• Truffle Stew with Slugs: truffle infused, slow cooked beef stew with crispy mushrooms or a vegan option of truffle infused vegetable stew, with crispy mushrooms
• Battered Mice: saffron battered potatoes 
• Blood Berry Fruit Salad: lychees, black berries, raspberries, blueberries and raspberry coulis

For under one’s: 

• Cream cheese sandwich
• Carrot, cucumber and breadsticks with Hummus
• Spooky Fruit Salad

The Fangtastic Feast is part of the Liverpool charity’s Halloween and half-term activity programme for 2024. All proceeds are reinvested into The Reader’s work to ensure it can continue to provide free Shared Reading groups to as many children and adults as possible in Liverpool and beyond.

The Reader is a Liverpool-based national charity which uses literature to connect individuals, help them feel better and to rebuild lost social bonds. It runs 496 adult Shared Reading groups, including 118 in the Liverpool City Region, and 96 weekly Shared Reading activities with children. 

Tickets for the immersive Fangastic Feast at The Reader are £30 for adults, £15 for children and £5 for children under one and are available to book here. Dress little ones in wellies and waterproofs, things might get slimy!  

Find out what else is going on across Liverpool this Halloween here.

Everton in the Community (EitC) is giving young Evertonians a once-in-a-lifetime chance to brave the elements at Goodison Park for a fantastic cause.

The Goodison Junior Sleepout event will take place on Friday, 11 April 2025, and it will be the first – and only – opportunity for junior Blues to sleep out at the iconic stadium and raise funds for the Club’s official charity.

EitC is challenging young supporters to spend the night sleeping out in the Sir Philip Carter Park End to support them in their fundraising efforts which will be channelled towards the sustainability of its life-saving work in Liverpool 4 and beyond.

A key date in the EitC fundraising calendar, the charity recently hosted its last-ever Goodison Sleepout, which has raised over £150,000 for its ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is’ programme to combat youth homelessness.

And in response to popular demand for a child-friendly version of the staple fundraising event, EitC is hosting the Junior Sleepout for young people to experience a memorable night at Goodison Park in what will be the stadium’s final season.

Each young person will be asked to pay a £25 registration fee and pledge to raising a minimum fundraising sponsorship target of £60 to reflect the charity’s 60+ programmes and initiatives that tackle a diverse range of social issues.

Funds raised through the event will be channelled into the development of these pioneering projects which support tens of thousands of individuals from across Liverpool City Region every year and cover areas such as health, employability, anti-social behaviour, crime, exploitation, education, dementia and disability.

Even a small amount will make a big difference to those who need it most; £10 would equip a pupil with an English and Maths SATS revision book, £30 could pay for a travel pass for a young person to get to college whilst £50 would fund an E-STEAM session for a group of school children at the charity’s Digital Skills Lab.

Sarah Hunter, Fundraising Manager at Everton in the Community, said:

“This is a unique opportunity for young supporters to come together and raise awareness and vital funds for our charity’s life-changing work whilst experiencing a memorable night at Goodison Park.

“The public asked for a junior edition of the fundraising event following the final Goodison Sleepout and we listened. We’re looking forward to welcoming the youngsters to Goodison Park for a special occasion to celebrate all things Everton in the Community.”

EitC is reaffirming its commitment to the area surrounding Goodison Park with a new campaign highlighting the charity’s present and future provision in L4. 

‘Forever’ will enforce  EitC’s current presence in the area and Everton Football Club’s commitment to L4 through the life-changing work of its official charity.  For more information on EitC’s ‘Forever’ campaign, click  here.

To show your support, sign up to the Goodison Junior Sleepout here and for any group booking requests, please email: fundraising@evertonfc.com

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

Merseyrail today announced the launch of its ‘A Pound for Zoe’s Place’ campaign, aimed at supporting Zoe’s Place baby hospice in Liverpool, which is urgently fundraising £5 million to ensure its survival and secure a new home. 

Starting today and for the next four weeks, customers purchasing rail tickets at any Merseyrail ticket office will be invited to donate £1 to help this crucial cause. The aim of the campaign is to raise vital funds for the hospice, which has an uncertain future.

The initiative follows the news that Zoe’s Place, which provides end-of-life and palliative care to children and respite for families, is facing potential closure. The hospice has long been a cherished institution in Liverpool, with overwhelming community support emerging since the news broke.

Speaking alongside local MP Ian Byrne MP, at a launch event at Liverpool Central earlier today, Merseyrail Managing Director, Niel Grabham, explained:

“Merseyrail has been at the heart of the communities we serve for over 20 years. When we heard about the challenges facing Zoe’s Place the whole Merseyrail team were focused on helping in any way we could. We know many of our customers will also be looking for a way to show their support”.

“This hospice has been a lifeline for countless families, and we want to make it as easy as possible for our customers to contribute to saving this vital service.”

Local MP Ian Byrne, who has been a leading voice in the campaign to save the hospice, added:

 “So many great people and organisations have come together to keep Zoe’s Place in Liverpool and to urgently raise the funds needed to build the planned new world class children’s hospice in the heart of West Derby, serving the whole of Merseyside.”

“We are all working hard to make this happen for the incredible children, families and staff of this very special place in our city. It’s certainly a huge ask to raise £5 million in a matter of weeks, but if any city can do this, it’s Liverpool.”

“Everyone involved with the campaign is extremely grateful to Merseyrail for this brilliant initiative to help get the fundraising campaign over the line.”

In addition to individual contributions from customers, Merseyrail will also be making a donation to support the hospice’s campaign. The City Region rail operator will also be facilitating any donations it’s staff might wish to make.  

Merseyrail has a proud record of supporting local charities, with its Charity of the Year programme having raised over £1,000,000 for local good causes since its inception.

For more information on how to support the campaign, please visit the Merseyrail website or speak to staff at your local ticket office.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

The new Crew Welfare Hub at Liverpool Cruise Terminal has wrapped up a highly successful summer season, providing essential support and services to thousands of cruise ship crew members.

Throughout the summer months, Liverpool Cruise Terminal welcomed 97 vessels, bringing in a total of 55,575 crew members. These dedicated professionals worked tirelessly to ensure an unforgettable experience for passengers aboard their vessels.

The Crew Welfare Hub, a collaborative initiative between Liverpool Seafarers Centre and Liverpool Cruise Terminal, offers a range of practical and emotional support services to visiting seafarers. 

Its convenient location within the terminal has proven invaluable for crew members, many of whom have limited time ashore. By providing a comfortable and supportive environment, both indoors and outside, the Crew Welfare Hub has enabled seafarers to access essential services and enjoy a well-deserved break.  

The crew had access to various amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, refreshments, and essential shopping options, such as discounted SIM cards to help them stay connected with family and friends back home.

They could also receive city guides and local information from staff and volunteers, who served as ambassadors for Liverpool, showcasing its many attractions. Additionally, currency exchange services were available at the Hub, allowing crew members to purchase local souvenirs and even Asian snacks provided by the Crew Welfare Hub, helping them feel more at home during their visit.

A convenient parcel service was available, allowing crew to arrange for packages to be delivered to the seafarers’ centre for easy pickup while in Liverpool. A dedicated team of Ship Welfare Visitors and volunteers was on hand to offer assistance and guidance. Staff and volunteers shared countless cups of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate with the visiting crew and listened to fascinating stories from people around the globe.

This effort was made possible by the Liverpool Seafarers Centre staff, the Liverpool Cruise Terminal and 20 dedicated volunteers who supported the crew during busy times. They worked tirelessly, even in challenging weather conditions this summer.

“We are delighted with the success of the Crew Welfare Hub,” said Kinga Davies, Deputy Manager at Liverpool Seafarers Centre. “It has become a vital resource for visiting crew, offering a much-needed respite from the demands of life at sea. We would like to extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to all the staff and volunteers for their invaluable support in making this service possible for seafarers.”

The Hub’s popularity underscores the increasing importance of supporting the welfare of seafarers. As the cruise industry continues to thrive, Liverpool Cruise Terminal remains committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all who pass through its doors.

If anyone would like information about volunteering opportunities get in touch with Liverpool Seafarers Centre.

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

Families – and their dogs – are invited to take the lead and join the annual festive trail at The Reader, bringing to life Rob Biddulph’s An Odd Dog Christmas – ‘a gloriously illustrated story about the real meaning of Christmas’.

The Christmas Story Trail at The Reader, located in Liverpool’s historic Calderstones Park, is back for a fifth year due to popular demand.

Families – including their furry friends – are invited to take the lead and join thenew self-led festive trail based on children’s picture book, An Odd Dog’s Christmas, by the best-selling and award-winning author/ illustrator Rob Biddulph, as part of The Reader’s festive programme for 2024.

Martyna Puciato, co-manager of The Reader’s magical playspace, The Storybarn, said:

“This Christmas we’re excited to continue the tradition of our much-loved interactive Christmas Story Trail in close collaboration with publishers Harper Collins.

“We chose this joyful, beautifully illustrated festive story by Rob Biddulph as the Storybarn team all absolutely love the first book in the series, Odd Dog Out, which is all about celebrating difference. So, when we read An Odd Dog Christmas, we couldn’t resist the story’s message that the best Christmas presents come from the heart. 

“We also love the wonderful winter wonderland he creates through his illustrations and felt it would be ‘paw-fect’ for Calderstones Park. We know that families from across the North West will love the outdoor trail and enjoy reading the book together for many Christmases to come.”

The story, about a sausage dog in search of the perfect Christmas gift for a friend, was famously read aloud by film star Tom Hardy on a CBeebies Christmas Eve special in 2021, the same year the book was published.

The Christmas Story Trail will run every weekend from Saturday November 23 until Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December) from 10am to 2.30pm, with bookable 30-minute slots, and walk-up tickets available. 

Families are encouraged to bring along their pet pooch and join the ‘Odd Dog’ on a festive journey on the imaginary ‘Paw-lar Express’ in her search for a gift, and perhaps save Christmas along the way.

The fully accessible trail combines Rob Biddulph’s stunning illustrations and warmhearted humour with plenty of fun Storybarn touches to bring the story to life.

By following 14 clues on their trail maps, children will search for supersize pages from the book and complete activities, including listening out for outdoor disco tunes and having a festive boogie en route. The trail starts and ends at The Reader’s Ice Cream Parlour archway.    

New for 2024, the Liverpool-based charity will also be adding a special guided Christmas Story Trail for pre-schoolers, aged one to four on Fridays. They will be led by a Storyhunter from The Storybarn, and start at 10am – 11.30am.

More than 3,500 families have participated in the trail since it was first launched during the pandemic in Christmas 2019.

Groups are welcome to book the Green Room inside The Mansion House to meet up with friends and family before or after the trail during this period. The Reader’s catering team will take orders for breakfast, brunch or lunch from the on-site cafe. Exclusive room hire for an hour is £15.

The trail is £15 per family in advance or £17 on the day and includes a copy of An Odd Dog Christmas, as well as a trail map and pencil for every child. The trail will go ahead come rain, shine, or even snow and is perfect for all ages.

Hot chocolate with all the trimmings can also be ordered in advance and collected from The Reader’s Bookshop Cafe afterwards. ‘Puppy-cinos’ will also be added to the menu for children and their four-legged friends.

All proceeds will help The Reader to continue to support those who need it most through its Shared Reading groups across Liverpool and the UK. 

Further information and tickets are available here. For further information about The Reader visit here.

For more on Christmas in Liverpool click here.

Maghull Station has emerged victorious in the national grand final of the World Cup of Stations 2024, securing the title of Britain’s best railway station.

The win was announced today following last Friday’s final vote, which saw Maghull Station beat out strong finalists King’s Lynn and Dorridge, to claim the top spot.

The victory comes after Maghull’s impressive performance throughout the tournament, which saw the Sefton station capturing support from local customers, community groups, politicians and across local media. 

This year’s contest celebrated the diverse businesses found in train stations across Great Britain, highlighting facilities such as delis, florists, and cafes that enrich local communities and economies.

Maghull’s success is largely attributed to both its fantastic station team and to its popular café, ‘The Coffee Carriage,’ which opened in 2024. 

Founded by two local entrepreneurs, the café quickly became a community hub, offering a range of hot drinks, artisan bakes, and a welcoming atmosphere that has drawn both regular commuters and residents.

Suzanne Grant, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy Managing Director of Merseyrail, expressed her pride over the win:

“Winning the World Cup of Stations is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the amazing support we have seen from the local community during the competition.

“Maghull station is a special place, combining a dedicated station team, a wonderful local business in the form of the Coffee Carriage and not forgetting our station volunteers, who keep it looking at it’s best.

“We are thrilled that Maghull has been named the best station in Great Britain, and I want to thank everyone who voted and supported us throughout this campaign.”

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:

“I’m absolutely delighted that Maghull station has been recognised nationally and I know how much it means to all the people involved. 

“This fantastic achievement is a testament to the incredible spirit of our local community, as well as the hard work of the station team and volunteers. Along with the folks at The Coffee Carriage, they have made Maghull a proper community hub where people feel welcome and connected.

“Winning this title is a celebration of everything that makes the Liverpool City Region special, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted and supported us.”

Rory McLellan, Co-owner of the Coffee Carriage also shared his gratitude:

“The support we’ve received has been overwhelming and as a small business still establishing ourselves in this community, this really means a lot. This victory means so much to us, and it’s incredible to see our station recognised on a national level. We’re proud to be a small part of what makes Maghull such a special place.”

The competition, organised by Rail Delivery Group, saw participation from stations across Great Britain, with more than 72,000 votes cast in previous years. Maghull now joins the ranks of past winners, including Wemyss Bay (2023), Stourbridge Junction (2021), and Huddersfield (2019).

For more info on Merseyrail click here.

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

October half term is just around the corner and Cheshire West and Chester Council has a full programme of frightfully fun events planned to keep families and little pumpkins entertained during the holidays.

The borough’s museums have free fun on offer with their ‘Frankenstein’s Museum’, Halloween-themed activities throughout the half term and suitable for all ages.

Also the Deadly Museum Trail at Grosvenor Museum from 8 October to 5 November – a tour of deadly items at the museum.  Examples of exhibits include mercury in hat making, toxins used to create taxidermy, lead in wigs, objects connected to the great plague, Victorian mourning and many more. Though not specifically aimed at children, it is light-hearted enough to be family-friendly.

Grosvenor Museum is also hosting a Children’s Ghost Walk on 29 October – book your place at the museum.

Halloween comes to the Lion Salt Works on 1 November with their annual Halloween party with free spooky crafts, haunted stories and a trick or treat trail. Suitable for ages 4+ but younger pumpkins welcome.  Dress to spook!  Then the Northwich Explorers session on 1 November will use chemistry to make an organic ‘milk-plastic’ Halloween keyring.

There are lots of fun events planned at libraries including Halloween Bingo, Pumpkin Decorating, as well as regular rhyme and story sessions.

Many libraries are offering craft activities involving everything from terrifying tea light holders (30 October at Upton Library), to monster masks (31 October at Tarvin and Neston Libraries) and spooky ghost craft (31 October at Tarporley Library).  Not forgetting Bonfire Night will soon be here with a fireworks craft session at Frodsham Library on 1 November.

This half term a group of volunteers on the City Walls will also be hosting medieval surgeon Godfrey Garland at Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower between Saturday 26 and Thursday 31 October, between 11am and 3pm – call in to see him if you dare!

The Council’s school holiday webpage includes details of other activities across the borough including holiday clubs, events at Brio Leisure, Chester Wizard School, Blakemere and Theatre Porto.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future (Poverty, Public Health, Mental Health, Libraries and Culture), Councillor Lisa Denson said:

“The Council has also pulled together a useful webpage of all the fun activities happening across the borough, not just at Council venues, during the October half term.

“There is so much going on from craft sessions to ghost walks, have a look on-line and find out what’s happening near you.”

For information about all library events sign up to their eNewsletter or follow libraries on social media:  Facebook: @cwaclibrary, X @cwaclibraries and Instagram @cwaclibraries.

There are 22 libraries across Cheshire West and Chester, a Mobile Library and Home Library Service. It is free to join and books can be borrowed from and returned to any library.

You can access computers and wi-fi for free or join in with a wide range of events and activities for all ages. There are also thousands of free eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines to borrow.

To find out more visit the Chester Council’s website.

Find all the latest Chester news here.

This winter, Liverpool’s latest street food and entertainment venue, BOXPARK, will open its doors to a new intimate ice rink destination, with ‘IceBox’ – a six-week festive ice-skating pop-up, running from Friday 22 November to Sunday 5 January. 

Nestled in the vibrant Baltic Triangle as part of the Cains Brewery estate, just opposite BOXPARK Liverpool, IceBox will be surrounded by enchanting settings, with an intimate backdrop of magical, twinkling Christmas lights. Skaters of all ages and abilities are invited to lace up their skates and glide across the ice whilst embracing the festive spirit. 

As the winter holiday approaches, IceBox is the ultimate festive family experience with free skating for kids from ages 3+ (included with adult ticket) and street food included with every booking. Beyond skating, BOXPARK Liverpool will be hosting an exciting schedule of festive-themed entertainment and activities for everyone, as well as delicious scran, winter cocktails and mulled wine, to enjoy pre or post-skate. 

IceBox will offer a variety of session types with affordable ticket options for families, students, and adult-only late skate sessions. Open daily until 11pm*, IceBox will also feature live entertainment for skaters including DJs, hosts competitions, and dance-offs (yes, on skates!) 

BOXPARK Liverpool General Manager Joel Lee comments:

“I am really excited to be a part of something special in Liverpool this winter, as we launch our own festive ice-skating destination in the Baltic Triangle! It’s always been a favourite family activity of mine so it’s a pleasure to be able to create a pop-up ice rink here at BOXPARK Liverpool and bring a magical winter experience for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome guests to come and enjoy a festive tradition alongside some great street food and amazing winter events schedule.”

Tickets for IceBox at BOXPARK Liverpool are now on sale, starting from just £12 per person. Book tickets here.

Find more events in Liverpool this Christmas here.

A nine-year-old Taylor Swift fan from Aintree has raised more than £2,500 in two weeks for the Zoe’s Place appeal by making friendship bracelets.

Lauren Williams and her daughter Lily watched a video of comedian Adam Rowe talking about the baby hospice’s struggle to stay open.

Schoolgirl Lily decided she’d help by using leftover beads from seeing her idol on this summer’s Eras Tour to make bracelets.

Now, after setting herself a £250 Just Giving target, Lily has managed to raise over 10 times that amount and she’s not stopping yet!

With a growing list of orders, Lily and her mum are devoting all their spare time to it, crafting before and after school and at weekends.

Lauren says:

“It started out as a small-scale thing that Lily wanted to do because we’d watched the Adam Rowe video and Lily was asking what Zoe’s Place was and why it was closing. 

“It was hard to know what to say – how do you explain that somewhere that does such amazing work for Liverpool and beyond is closing for a reason she wouldn’t really understand?

“She asked if there was something we could do to help so we discussed a few ideas. Lily’s a massive Taylor Swift fan, she made lots of friendship bracelets to take to the concert with her in the summer and then we went to Stanley Park the day after to exchange bracelets with the fans there.

“That was the idea Lily landed on, to start making bracelets, and she set herself a £250 target which I thought we should be able to raise because friends and family would get involved.

“She posted a video on my Instagram on October 9, started the fundraising page and here we are at £2,630! The community has really got behind her, her school Aintree Davenhill Primary has too, and all her friends have been great. Everyone’s just been so generous, it’s been really heartwarming.”

In fact, Lily has such a long ongoing order list, they’ve set up a mini production line at home.

“We’ve got it off to a fine art now,” laughs Lauren. “I’m on knots and admin and Lily does all the beautiful bracelet making.

“People are ordering through the Just Giving website, we’ve had lots of cash donations as well and we’ve had some orders where people have wanted a particular theme like rainbow colours or Everton or Liverpool.

“The manageress of the local pub, The Valentine in Aintree village, has put a load behind the bar and has been taking cash donations and we’ve got a stall on Sunday selling them at a friend’s fundraising event in Orrell Park Bar on Moss Lane.”

Mum and daughter have been driving around dropping off orders every day, posting out to further afield, and Lauren says it’s not just donations of money which have been coming in. 

“We’ve had lots of donations of beads, Hobbycraft in Aintree got in touch and donated some, and we’ve been gifted more by family friends and the local community who’ve been knocking on our door to give Lily extra.

“It’s been a really nice experience for Lily, everyone’s been lovely so it’s something I’m sure will stick with her for a very long time. We’re just trying to play our part in hopefully saving Zoe’s Place because that’s the outcome we all want.”

Support Lily’s Just Giving bracelet making here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

After an incredible year of fundraising, West Kirby Women’s Institute (WI) raised funds to support the crucial lifesaving efforts RNLI provides in the community.

The RNLI West Kirby Lifeboat Station was honoured to receive a cheque for £2,380 during this month’s West Kirby WI members’ meeting.

This generous contribution, raised through a series of successful fundraising events throughout the year, reflects the WI’s heartfelt dedication to community support and charitable giving. The West Kirby WI’s commitment to supporting local charities is an integral part of their mission, as they seek to make a meaningful impact in the areas they serve.

Lesley Dewsbury, President of West Kirby WI, said:

“We chose West Kirby RNLI after an inspirational talk from Richard Diamond, at one of our monthly meetings. He brought home to us just how valuable the service is and how so many emergencies could have had a far worse outcome if they were not there.

“Living by the coast we are all very aware that one day we might need to call on them. As the service is run by volunteers and relies on funding from the public, we felt this was a very worthy local charity to support.

“A large proportion of the money raised came from a hugely successful ceilidh, but we also took a stall at Ashton Park fair selling homemade cakes, craft items and plants. All of these were organised by our charity’s sub-group, and I would like to thank them all for their tireless efforts over the last twelve months in raising this fantastic sum.”

Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, expressed his gratitude saying:

“We are incredibly thankful to the West Kirby WI for their generous donation, which will pay for two years of fuel for our new D class lifeboat, Leonard Pownall. Community support is essential to our operations, and this contribution will make a significant difference.

“The collaboration between West Kirby WI and RNLI West Kirby highlights the vital role of community involvement in ensuring the safety of those who enjoy the coast. The WI’s dedication not only benefits local charities, but also strengthens community bonds, making a lasting impact on the lives of residents.”

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

Liverpool-based social mobility charity Career Connect has launched its impact report for 2023/24 – revealing a near 20% year-on-year increase in reach.

In 2023/24, Career Connect had contact with 97,719 people across the UK, with the aim of empowering them to move forward in employment, education or training – wherever they are in their journey.

It also generated an impressive additional social value of £8million through activity such as the creation of apprenticeships, supporting responsible regional business growth, and reducing its environmental impact.  

Career Connect, whose Head Office is based in Liverpool’s Exchange Flags, was established in 2001 as part of the Connexions network before becoming a separate organisation. It became a charity in 2011.

It offers a range of services that support people to move forward in their careers and in life.

Sheila Clark, CEO of Career Connect, said:

“This year, in driving forward our vision for a society where every individual realises their potential, I’m proud to say that we have extended our impact and reach to more people than ever. No matter where we operate, everything we do is driven by our values – inclusive, person-centred, aspirational, impartial and professional.

“We are seeing more demand for our services, and more people with complex needs and barriers to employment, education or training. At the same time, government funding for careers services is yet to increase in real terms.

“Effective and impartial careers support can change lives – making a long-term impact on people’s economic, physical and mental health, and wellbeing outcomes. Investing in careers support is ultimately an investment in all of our futures.

“I am proud of the positive contribution we have made to thousands of lives, and I would like to thank each of our dedicated people who place our participants at the heart of what they do. There is still more to do, and we will continue to build on our impact to change even more lives.”  

In 2023/24, Career Connect has:

Provided careers education, information and guidance to 45,795 young people across 214 schools and colleges.

Career Connect’s Education and Business team works in mainstream schools, specialist schools, and alternative provision, with the same aim – to provide tailored services that meet the individual needs and aspirations of students. The team has delivered individual careers interviews and support, careers fairs and employer mock interviews and workshops, organised Work Experience, and sessions on enterprise and challenging career stereotypes. They also deliver the Quality in Careers Standard and CPD sessions, mentorship and consultation for Careers staff. 

The team ran the second successful What Next Careers Show in Wirral, which welcomed more than 700 students and 55 employers.

It has also continued to work with nine secondary and ten primary schools in Knowsley, to provide an inspirational programme helping young people to develop an understanding of university life and experience.

Been responsible for tracking and support services for 41,629 young people across eight local authorities, with substantive support provided to 26,229 young people.

Career Connect’s provision includes one-to-one, impartial support and mentoring for young people aged 16+ or those coming up to school leaving age and at risk of not being in education, employment or training (NEET). The Charity tracks young people’s career destinations across a number of local authorities and engages with those without a destination, to offer careers support. Targeted and innovative work across the Northwest has included:

Careers Fest, a city-wide job, training, and apprenticeship fair, run by Career Connect’s Liverpool team in collaboration with Liverpool City Council and The Learning Foundry. More than 100 young people and 30 exhibitors were in attendance.

The Sefton team seeing major success in the rollout of an early intervention model delivered on behalf of Sefton Council (Sefton NEET Reduction and Early Intervention Service). Providing targeted support from Year 9, the programme aims to keep young people engaged with learning and pathway planning. Of those pre-16 young people identified as being ‘At Risk of NEET, the programme has seen reductions of up to 16.8% of at-risk young people that are NEET upon leaving school.

The Manchester team partnering with Manchester City Council to provide employability support and 6-month Living Wage placements with the Council’s Neighbourhoods team, for young people facing barriers and wanting to go straight into employment.

Supported 10, 068 adults in the criminal justice system to move towards a new path.

Activity in 2023/24 included delivering the HMPPS CFO3 programme, part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). From 2015-2024, Achieve enrolled more than 19,000 individuals onto the CFO3 project, providing interventions to address barriers such as debt, substance misuse, and family relationships, with the aim of helping to prevent reoffending.

The Careers Information Advice and Guidance (CIAG) programme, run by the Achieve team in five male prisons across Lancashire and Cumbria since 2019, achieved employment rates for participants almost 1.7 times higher than the national average within six weeks post-release. Throughout the year it consistently achieved the highest monthly % employment on release percentage, both regionally and nationally.

The team’s work on the Greater Manchester Integrated Rehabilitative Services – Employment, Training, and Education (IRS-ETE) programme for people on probation, saw them achieve an initial assessment of 97% of referrals within the targeted 10 days, despite significant demand.

Provided careers training and CPD for 227 people across local authorities, schools and professional careers agencies.

Career Connect’s Training and Development Team has delivered Open Awards Level 1 & 2 Employability, City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate in Advice and Guidance, Level 4 Diploma in Advice and Guidance and Level 6 Diploma in Careers Guidance and Development. The team also conducted CPD with three local authorities, on careers guidance and practice and sessions on safeguarding.

For the fifth year the team delivered the Level 6 Career Leaders programme for those leading Careers programmes in schools, funded by the Careers and Enterprise Company, with many Careers Leaders returning to complete the full Level 6 careers qualification with Career Connect. Career Connect is an assessment centre, accredited to deliver courses through four awarding bodies: OCR, City & Guilds, ILM and Open Awards.

Amplifying voices through research

2023/2024 also saw Career Connect build on its research, with the aim of creating positive change. The Charity published five research reports on topics including place-based youth employment support, elective home education and what works in supporting adults who have been in prison into employment.

The Charity also presented at three national conferences and contributed evidence to inquiries conducted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Youth Employment and Select Committees relating to employment support.

In March 2023, Career Connect embarked on its first national consultation exercise to assess views on the strength of evidence about the impact of independent careers support for young people.

Growing Participant Voice

The Charity’s Participation Voice work is going from strength to strength, with its latest cohort of Youth Ambassadors in post and the expansion of participation work from Youth Voice to now include adult participants.  

Creating Wider Social Value

The Charity’s impressive social value figure of £8 million was calculated using the Social Value TOMS (Themes, Outcomes, and Measures) tool framework.

This considers wider reach through activity such as the creation of apprenticeships, training opportunities and providing a Real Living Wage to staff; supporting responsible regional business growth through our support for mental health and wellbeing initiatives, and equality and diversity; using its Beneficiary Fund to provide practical support to participants; and decarbonising and safeguarding our environment through a range of initiatives including working with Positive Planet.

Read the report on the Career Connect website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

During the festive season, the Bluecoat’s galleries will transform into a bustling marketplace, giving local artists, members of the Bluecoat’s Creative Community and beyond, the opportunity and the space to showcase and sell their work before Christmas.

The gallery will also feature a new exhibition, The Year That Was, a celebration of the exhibitions and public artworks shown at the Bluecoat in 2024, opening on Tuesday 3rd December – Sunday 21st December. The exhibition will include limited edition prints, posters and original artworks from our gallery programme and cultural legacies programme. These works will also be for sale, giving visitors the chance to not only see art, but to enjoy it in their homes or gift to friends and family.

The main display features artists such as Michelle Williams-Gamaker, Roxy Topia and Paddy Gould, Babak Ganjei, Tess Gilmartin, Joshua Clague and more. This end of year display is also an opportunity to reflect back on a year that has explored who artists are, how the future will be shaped, and how we might connect with our histories.

A new archive display titled Tomorrow’s Music Yesterday will open in the Bluecoat’s upstairs gallery. The display will include posters reflecting on some of the music presented at the Bluecoat over the decades, with a focus on the experimental and eclectic, including jazz, improvised, electronic, ‘world’ and contemporary classical from the likes of the Philip Glass Ensemble, John Zorn, Pierre Henry, Carla Bley, Imrat Khan and Philip Jeck. Opening on Friday 15th November.

The Bluecoat’s garden will be host to a new festive themed art trail from Blue Room, the Bluecoat’s inclusive arts programme for learning disabled and neurodivergent artists. Room artists have created a mischievous troupe of gingerbread characters inspired by Kayleigh Murray’s Gingerbread Party design for LUSH’s festive gift collection. From Saturday 30th November.

Festive Lunches and Christmas Workshops

The Bluecoat’s upstairs restaurant will be open for festive lunches during the Christmas period. Friends, families, and colleagues can book a table for a two course Christmas meal for just £26pp, prepared by the Bluecoat’s talented new Head Chef. Vegetarian and gluten free options available. Visit www.thebluecoat.org.uk to see the full menu.

Following on from a highly popular Autumn wreath making workshop, professional up-cycler and Channel 4 personality Gemma Longworth will be hosting a Festive Wreath Making workshop on Sunday 24th November.

Movema and the Bluecoat’s partnership event ‘Makers and Shakers’ is back with a Creative Christmas Disco and Christmas decoration making workshop on Sunday 1st December.

Full list of the Bluecoat’s Christmas events below:

Tomorrow’s Music Yesterday
From Fri 15 Nov

Gingerbread Party People Trail by Blue Room
From Sat 30 Nov

The Year That Was
Tue 3 – Sat 21 Dec

Winter Markets

Bluecoat Arts Market
Sat 7 Dec, 11am-4pm. Free entry
Find the perfect gift or treat yourself to a new piece of art, created by members from our creative community.

Bloom Makers Market
Sat 14 & Sun 15 Dec, 11am-4pm. Free entry

Still Out-of-Print Book Fair
Fri 20 & Sat 21 Dec, 11am-5pm. Free entry
Browse unique second hand and antique books to find the perfect Christmas present for the book lover in your life.

Workshops and other events

Mindful Glow: Candlelit Sound Bath Meditation
Sat 23 Nov, 10am, 12pm, 1.30pm and 3pm
Tickets: from £25.95
Experience the powerful revitalising effects of sound bath therapy and meditation to reset your mind and body.

Festive Wreath Making
Sun 24 Nov, 1-3pm
£48, all materials included
Get into the festive spirit and create your very own seasonal wreath using fresh foliage and decorations.

Collage Christmas Cards
Thu 28 Nov, 6-7.30pm
Tickets: £3.50
Join us for a festive and creative session where you can personalise your own sustainable Christmas cards through collage.

Christmas Print Party
Sat 30 Nov , 11am – 12.30pm
For ages 4+ £15 per child, adults go free.
Get creative this festive season in this family friendly printmaking session. Children and their grown ups will create a pack of Christmas cards and make beautiful monoprinted decorations for your tree.

Makers + Shakers: A Creative Christmas Disco
Sun 1 Dec, 2 – 3.30pm
£15 per child | £26 for a 2 child bundle | Adults, carers and crawlers go free
Bring the whole family for a festive session of moving, making, and shaking. Create Christmas decorations with Bluecoat, and follow Santa’s trail around the globe in a joyful dance session led by artists from Movema.

Intro to Photopolymer Etching
Sat 8 Dec, 11am – 5pm
Tickets: £85
This exciting one-day course will take you through the digital and analogue process of making small edition, low toxic photogravure prints.

Intro to UV Screen Printing
Sat 9 Dec, 11am – 5pm
Tickets: £70

Find more information on the Bluecoat website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

The national Museum of Youth Culture is coming to Liverpool to gather photos, memorabilia and stories for its collection.

Organisers at the Museum of Youth Culture want Scousers to dig out their old snaps, ticket stubs, flyers, posters and even fashion to be photographed and included in a UK-wide archive.

You don’t have to part with the treasured piece of nostalgia, the idea of the ‘scanning social’ is to create a digital version which could be shown online and reprinted once the museum has a physical space.

Lisa Der Weduwe from the Museum of Youth Culture explains: “We already have museums dedicated to childhood, but the history of teenagers quite often just comes into wider social history and we lose that youth voice. 

“We’re trying to build a collection that really tells a story that’s maybe not being told so much in other museums right now.

“Museum of Youth Culture is an emerging museum that celebrates the lives of teenagers and young people over the last 100 years, the different scenes, styles and social movements, and acknowledges the impact that young people have had on society.

“Everyone’s been young once and I think because that period of our life is so important to us and really shapes who we become we all have really strong memories attached to it.”

The Liverpool event, at the Fred Perry store in Liverpool ONE on Friday October 25, is the latest stop in the museum’s tour of the UK, 

In 2019 it started inviting members of the public to help build up its collections by submitting photographs, old ticket stubs, band T-shirts and other pieces of clothing, or just memories or funny stories. 

“We’re essentially trying to crowd source this history of what it’s like being a teenager in Britain over the last 100 years,” says Lisa.

“We’d love as many different generations as possible to bring things in. The earliest we’ve had are from the early 1900s, photos that have been passed down generations, but we’re building up the most comprehensive picture we can so we want to see anything from early 1900s to present day.

“This year, with support from Fred Perry, we’ve been using their stores as bases.

“We’ve done things in Liverpool before, workshops with young people, but now we’re coming up with our scanner so we’re hoping to collect some really great stories and items.

“The idea of the scanning socials is people come, they sit down with us, tell us their story, and we can scan their photos or other material. We understand these things are really important to people and we respect that so they get them back, we’re happy just to have a digital archive and we can show them as reproduced prints.”

Lisa says items they’ve had from previous ‘shoebox archives’ have included everything gig and football ticket stubs to family holiday snaps and even an old school bag from the ‘70s.

“It’s about capturing all kinds of different experiences. Our teenage years are when we start developing so much of our identity and the things we’re passionate about, so most people have something that relates back to that time. 

“It’ll be exciting to see what comes through in Liverpool because there have been so many iconic movements that have come out of Liverpool and broken new ground.”

Alongside submissions from the public, the Museum of Youth Culture will feature archive material from professional photographers.

At the Liverpool event on Friday, Francesco Mellina will be giving a talk between 2pm and 3pm so it’ll be an opportunity to see his work and hear his stories.

“Professional photographers were part of the scenes as well, they weren’t just coming in, taking the photos and leaving, they were photographing their friends and family,” adds Lisa. “Having a camera was their way of contributing to what was going on around them.”

The end goal is for the Museum of Youth Culture to have a permanent museum building which people can visit as well as travelling exhibitions which showcase national and local stories.”

Museum of Youth Culture will be holding a drop-in scanning social at Fred Perry Liverpool ONE on Friday October 25 between 10am and 4pm. 

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

Anfield, home to Liverpool Football Club, has been crowned the UK’s Best Landmark at Tiqets’ 2024 Remarkable Venue Awards.

Voted by the public, Anfield stadium is celebrated not only for its footballing legacy but also as a major global tourist destination, with nearly 400,000 visitors enjoying the stadium tour in the last year.

The Tiqets Remarkable Venue Awards shine a spotlight on excellence in the tourism and cultural industries, with this year’s nominees selected from over 2 million reviews.

“Receiving the Best Landmark award is a real honour. Anfield is one of the world’s most renowned and historic stadiums and this award highlights the unforgettable experiences we strive to provide every visitor.”

“We are thrilled to be recognised as a destination that connects with so many people worldwide, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that the memories made here stay with them long after they’ve left.” – Paul Cuttil, Vice President – Stadium Operations.

This recognition follows the recent refurbishment of the Anfield Museum, which has been reimagined with immersive, cutting-edge technology – including multimedia installations – toretell the club’s story in a brand-new immersive way.

All the Stadium Tours & Experiences include a visit to the recently relaunched LFC Museum which takes visitors on a journey through LFC’s humble beginnings to its rise as one of the most historic and famous football clubs.

Anfield will be open this October half-term and has plenty in store to keep young Reds occupied during the Autumn break with free activities, Halloween crafts and even a special appearance by Mighty Red, the club’s official mascot and number one fan.

Half-term activities will be on from 26 October – 3 November 2024. 

Here’s how to book:

• Click here to book the Anfield Stadium Tour including Mighty Red Tour on 31 October.
• Click here to book the Legends Q&A with Stadium Tour.  
• Click here to book the Anfield Abseil. T&Cs apply.

For the latest news around Liverpool click here.

The British Music Experience, UK’s Museum of Popular Music in Liverpool is putting Ian Curtis’ Vox Phantom VI Special guitar on display to celebrate the enormous contribution of both Curtis and Joy Division to the history of British music.

Bought in September of 1979 by Joy Division’s manager, Rob Gretton, this Phantom Vox was the very guitar used by Curtis on stage during Joy Division’s 1980 European Tour, as well as on the recording of their track “Heart and Soul”, and features throughout the music video for the timeless hit “Love Will Tear Us Apart”. Curtis can be seen playing this guitar at several venues during the band’s legendary 1980 tour. The Guitar will be on display at the British Music Experience this November.

Considered by many as a British cultural icon who had a once-in-a-generation talent, Ian Curtis’ musical legacy, even 40 years on, is as strong as ever. Despite a short career, Ian’s association with Joy Division as a fascinating and enigmatic figure was instrumental in the band becoming pioneers of the post-punk movement with their debut album ‘Unknown Pleasures’, released by Factory Records in 1979. Now regarded as one of the best albums of all time, it’s said ‘Unknown Pleasures’ defined not only the city of Manchester, but a moment of social change. Through his complex and melancholic song-writing, his distinct vocals, and commanding stage presence, Ian has managed to leave a lasting influence on musicians everywhere, and the music industry has never quite been the same since.

Formed in 1976 in Salford, Greater Manchester, Joy Division (originally named Warsaw) consisted of singer and ‘song-poet’ Ian Curtis, guitarist and keyboardist Bernard Sumner, bass player Peter Hook, and drummer Stephen Morris (who joined in 1977). Inspired by other musicians such as David Bowie, Kraftwerk, Sex Pistols, Jim Morrison, Iggy Pop, Roxy Music and Lou Reed, Ian’s vision had a powerful impact on the band, resulting in Joy Division moving away from the typical ‘punk sound’ of the time, and instead creating their own sound, now considered as the start of the post-punk movement.

Following Curtis’ untimely death in 1980, the Phantom Vox stayed with the band, who later that year became the prolific ‘New Order’, and was looked after and used by Bernard Sumner. Many years later, Bernard gifted the guitar to Ian’s daughter Natalie.  The guitar is now owned by a private collector who has kindly agreed for the rare object to take its well-deserved place on public display at the British Music Experience.

Trustee of the British Music Experience, and Liverpool’s UNESCO Head of Music Kevin McManus commented:

“It’s a real honour for BME to be able to exhibit such a wonderful piece of music history from one of the UK’s most celebrated artists. Joy Division were one of the most important bands of the punk/post punk era and they remain as one of the most influential bands of the twentieth century. I was lucky enough to see Joy Division play live and it is one of those gigs that will always stay clear in my memory. They were a group that changed many people’s lives and Ian Curtis was at the heart of it: a brilliant song writer with a mesmerising stage presence and haunting vocals.  By exhibiting this very special guitar we can pay our tribute to one of the UK’s greatest ever groups and hopefully encourage more visitors to discover the unknown pleasure of Joy Division.”

The BME is adding the guitar to its collection and it will go on display from 14 November 2024. The museum will be marking the occasion with a special evening film screening of the 2007 biopic, Control, on Thursday 28 November.  During the evening event, the guitar will be available to view for all ticket holders.

All general entry tickets purchased are valid for 12 months and each eligible visitor has the opportunity to support the Museum by Gift Aiding the cost of admission.

Book tickets for the British Music Experience here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Birkenhead Park’s World Heritage bid and its inspirational role in the creation of Central Park were the subject of talks between Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram and senior officials in New York.

Meeting at Central Park Boat House, the Mayor discussed how long-standing cultural links could help drive tourism from the USA to the city region.

Liverpool City Region and New York have a deep-rooted shared heritage around maritime and emigration as well as a shared musical past including The Beatles – John Lennon lived there with wife Yoko Ono and son Sean from 1971 until his death in 1980.

There is even a village in New York State called Liverpool.

However, it is the link between Birkenhead Park and Central Park – and the story of how a small part of Wirral inspired one of the world’s most famous open spaces – which is amongst the oldest, and which may now provide the catalyst for boosting economic prosperity across the city region as both parks seek World Heritage Status.

Mayor Steve Rotheram said:

“Birkenhead Park is a shining example of the Liverpool City Region’s legacy as a trailblazer, a place where bold ideas have inspired global change.

“It’s remarkable to think that this park, nestled in the heart of Wirral, became the blueprint for Central Park, one of the world’s most famous green spaces. Securing UNESCO World Heritage Status would not only acknowledge Birkenhead Park’s unique role in shaping urban landscapes, but it would also reaffirm our region’s ability to lead, innovate, and inspire on a global scale.

“Although it’s a cultural jewel for us in the Liverpool City Region, it’s also a living, breathing connection to a park on the other side of the world which has inspired films, music and art for countless creators over the years. By strengthening our ties with New York, we can use this shared history to drive cultural exchange, tourism, and economic growth for the future.

“As Birkenhead Park fast-approaches its 180th birthday, it would be the ultimate recognition of its unique history as the world’s first public park, and I’m confident it would provide a boost to the wider area.”

Birkenhead Park opened in 1847 and was the first park to be created by a municipal authority. It was planned as a public health response to a rise in illness and disease as the industrial revolution gathered pace.

Just three years later a young farmer, Frederick Law Olmsted, visited the region while travelling from his home in Connecticut, USA and stumbled upon the 125-acre green space. He was much taken with its English landscape design, carefully constructed follies and the fact it was accessible to everyone regardless of social class, age or colour.

In 1858, and now a landscape architect, he used what he had seen on his visit to Birkenhead Park as inspiration to create Central Park.

Birkenhead Park General Manager (World Heritage), Rob Belcher said:

“It is astonishing that two parks which are thousands of miles apart share such a connection – I think people in this region are very proud of that fact.” 

Birkenhead Park is now a conservation area and a Grade 1 listed landscape. It welcomes up to two million visitors each year.

In 2023 it was placed on the UK Government’s short list of applications for UNESCO World Heritage Site status. It was chosen as the first site from the list to be put forward for the title, a decision which is due in 2027.   

“I would love to see the setting up of some sort of twinning operation – a statement of cooperation,” said Rob, who retains informal contact with officials at Central Park Conservancy which cares for the 843-acre area.

“Of course, there are different dynamics with each park but I am sure we can learn from each other. And I know the communities we both serve value us.

“Achieving World Heritage Status would put Birkenhead Park on the world stage and we have to maximise that opportunity.”

Find out more about Birkenhead Park here.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Liverpool is set to welcome an extraordinary charity initiative this December as #YNRA (You’ll Never Run Alone) embarks on a six-day fundraising journey from Basingstoke to Liverpool.

The team behind You’ll Never Run Alone consists of three runners—Mark Dolby, José Messa, and José “Nacho” Messa – who are raising funds for St Michael’s Hospice and Victoria’s Promise, two charities dedicated to supporting families battling cancer.

The run, starting on December 8, 2024, covers a remarkable 191 miles with the team travelling approximately 28 – 35 miles per day.

The runners have set an ambitious fundraising target of £30,000, and have already raised over £3,000 to support these life-changing causes.

Their journey will take them through Wallingford, Neat Enstone, Stratford, Wolverhampton, and Market Drayton, before reaching their final stop in Liverpool on 14 December.

Mark, José, and Nacho are running not only for families in need of care and support but in honour of those who continue to fight each day.

Their goal is clear: no one should face cancer alone, and they are determined to make a difference for those who need it most.

Supporters can contribute via two donation pages, with funds going directly to the critical work of both St Michael’s Hospice and Victoria’s Promise.

Companion Care Vets in Basingstoke has already signed on as their first sponsor, helping to amplify the team’s message.

As they approach their final day in Liverpool, they will attend a match in the city that inspired their charity movement.

With a powerful slogan – “Together we WILL make a difference” – #YNRA invites the public to follow their journey and support their mission.

To donate, visit their JustGiving pages here and here.

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

Independent sustainability and upcycling fashion brand Bepo will host a pop-up store at Liverpool ONE this weekend.

The Pop-up displaying their latest sustainable fashion collections and latest book developed in collaboration with students from Liverpool John Moores University, Petty Pool College and Coleg Cambria. 

Liverpool John Moores University students created a series of bespoke garments using upcycled Eurovision Song Contest flags and banners which were displayed at the retail and entertainment destination during 2023. 

Also being showcased will be the All Inclusive (Ai) Project, a streetwear collection designed by SEND learners from Petty Pool College in Cheshire. The collection highlights inclusivity, with designs straight from the classroom to their shelves.

Finally, the pop-up store will host the launch of BEPO 2 Book: Alphabet with Attitude for Big and Little Humans, a fresh rework of their original book that’s all about resilience and focus, developed working alongside students Coleg Cambria in North Wales.

Bepo pop-up opening times:

• Friday 25 October, 10-8pm
• Saturday 26 October, 10-7pm
• Sunday 27 October, 11-5pm

Find out more information about the Bepo pop-up on the Liverpool ONE website.

Find all the latest Liverpool news here.

Looking for a family-friendly day out filled with local artisan makers and delicious eats?

Makers Market at Royal Albert Dock is the perfect event for families and is back on Sunday, November 3. With over 65 handmade small businesses being showcased, visitors will be treated to a wide selection of food, crafts, and more.

Food lovers can enjoy everything from Liverpool rum and honey to free-from bakes, pies, sausage rolls, and Asian snacks.

Plus, those with a sweet tooth will be spoiled for choice with cakes, doughnuts, and macarons.

But it’s not just about food! There will be plenty for those who love handmade products, including crochet items, home fragrances, jewellery, ceramics, football art, and even dog treats and accessories.

Speaking of pets, don’t leave your pooch at home – this market is dog-friendly, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.

Whether you’re looking to support small businesses, find one-of-a-kind gifts, or simply enjoy a day filled with live music and local talent, this artisan market promises to deliver a fun, creative, and tasty experience.

Get ready to explore independent makers and creators while soaking in the atmosphere at one of Liverpool’s most iconic destinations… this can’t be missed.

Bring the family, bring your appetite, and don’t forget to bring your four-legged friend along too!

Makers Market is back at Royal Albert Dock on 3 November from 11am – 4pm.

For more info on Makers Market at Royal Albert Dock click here.

For the latest news in Liverpool click here.

Looking for a special way to ring in 2025 with the family?

Gulliver’s World in Warrington has you covered with a festive New Year’s Eve event that’s perfect for all ages. The park will open its doors on the evening of December 31, offering a night filled with exciting rides, entertainment, and magical shows.

Starting at 5.30pm, families can explore the park’s festive attractions and enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor entertainment. But with winter in full swing, be sure to wrap up warm as you embark on this enchanting adventure.

Two ticket options are available to ensure everyone has a great time:

• New Year’s Eve Party Ticket (£39 per person): This ticket gives you access to the park’s rides and attractions until 11.30pm, plus entry to the Land of Lights Festival and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight. There will also be hot food and a licensed bar to keep you refreshed throughout the evening.
• New Year’s Eve Premium Ticket (£49 per person): Along with all the perks of the Party Ticket, the Premium option includes a Pantomime Dinner Show in the Starlight Theatre, a meal, and a special ride on the North Pole Express.

For an even more memorable experience, why not turn your visit into an overnight stay?

The park offers a short break package that includes everything from the Premium Ticket, along with a night in Gulliver’s World’s unique themed accommodations, like Lost World Cabins, Pirate Suites, or Western Dens.

Craig Clews, Resort Director at Gulliver’s World, said:

“We will have so much going on around the park that night, it will be a fabulous way to see out 2024 and welcome in the new year. Whether it’s the rides, entertainment, food, or the Land of Lights Festival that piques your interest, we want everyone to enjoy a spectacular New Year’s Eve.”

As Gulliver’s World celebrates its 35th anniversary, this special New Year’s Eve event is the perfect way for families to enjoy the park, which has been delighting visitors since 1989.

For more info on Gulliver’s World this New Year’s Eve click here.

For more on Christmas around Liverpool click here.