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A portfolio of Liverpool City Region projects is in line to receive £30m from a new £500m national innovation fund.
The projects are seeking funding from the Government’s Local Innovation Partnership Fund but could leverage a further £360m from the private sector, bringing the total investment to around £400m.
Led by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the fund is designed to support the development and scaling of high-potential existing and emerging innovation clusters across the UK.
The Combined Authority is acting as Lead Bidder for the city region’s submission for funding, with the programme governed through the Local Innovation Partnership Group, made up of representatives from civic institutions, universities, industry, and the social economy.
Following a Combined Authority-led call for projects before Christmas, the Local Innovation Partnership Group has produced a portfolio of projects. The Combined Authority will work with UKRI to finalise the submission and the projects, with final funding figures due to be revealed in early summer 2026.
Speaking about the shortlist, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said:
“Innovation has been central to my vision for the Liverpool City Region from the very start – not as an abstract idea, but as a practical way to build a stronger, fairer and greener economy that works for local people.
“That’s why we’ve set ourselves an ambitious goal to invest 5% of our GVA into research and development by 2030. Done right, that could unlock billions of pounds in economic growth and support tens of thousands of high-quality, well-paid jobs across our region.
“The £30m we’re in line to receive from the Local Innovation Partnership Fund reflects the growing confidence in our region’s ability to turn bold ideas into real-world impact. By working closely with UKRI and our partners across academia, industry and the social economy, we’ve brought together a strong and credible pipeline of projects that have the potential to be genuinely transformational for the Liverpool City Region.”
The draft shortlist of projects will be submitted to UKRI for review in February, where the project portfolio will undergo a quality assurance process before final selection is completed in March/April 2026.
Find out more on the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority website.
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Southport restaurant Volare win huge award crowning them the UK’s Best Restaurant!
The warm and welcoming family-run venue, which specialises in delicious home-cooked Italian food, won the honour at The UK SBA Small Business Awards in London.
It adds to a growing number of awards for Volare, which also collected the People’s Choice Restaurant of the Year title at the Your Southport Stars Awards for the past two years running.
The UK Small Business Awards takes place every year to honour the remarkable achievements of businesses and entrepreneurs across the UK.
Volare owner Onofrio Maimone said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded the title of the best restaurant in the whole of the UK!
“This is a huge honour for us. We are growing our collection of trophies in the restaurant!
“We will add this one to our two Southport Restaurant Of The Year trophies we won at the last two Your Southport Stars Awards.
“It feels very humbling for all of us to win this.
“We didn’t even go to the awards! We missed it! The ceremony took place on a Saturday in London – Saturday nights at Volare are so busy, we just couldn’t get away.
“I thought we had no chance of winning. We were up against some fantastic restaurants from across the country.
“To win – it was just outstanding. I couldn’t believe it when they contacted me to let me know.”
To the many customers who have enjoyed dining at Volare over the years, this accolade will come as absolutely no surprise. It’s no wonder why the judges were so impressed.
Volare was opened in 2007 by Onofrio Maimone and his wife Cinzia Lopalco, with son Jason Maimone operating as Head Chef.
Due to its growing success, Volare expanded into the neighbouring building in 2023, creating what it is today – modern but classic, bigger but still keeping its cosy family atmosphere.
At the start of this season they announced a successful partnership with Southport Football Club, where they provide hospitality on matchdays.
Volare has always been a huge supporter of the local community and local initiatives in a variety of ways.
Onofrio Maimone said:
“The judges came to Southport and spent some time in our restaurant, asking lots of questions about what we’re all about, and how we operate.
“Volare is very much a family-run restaurant serving authentic Italian food which we cook with passion.
“We course the very best ingredients we can. We import many of them directly from Italy – others are locally sourced, for example from the fish market in Fleetwood.
“We are very proud of our wine selection too with some fantastic Italian wines to savour.
“I grew up and spent my first 25 years in Sicily, and enjoy bringing the very best of authentic Italian cooking to Southport.
“The Italian Government recently honoured us for championing authentic Italian cooking in the UK.
“Working in the hospitality industry is tough, and the margins are getting tighter.
“We survive because we are so passionate about what we do, and because any profits we make we re-invest back into developing the business.
“We believe in growth. We are always looking at what can we improve? What can we make even better? How can we improve our offering?
“It’s all about the quality of the experience for our customers, both in terms of the quality of the food and the quality of the service. It’s about looking after every customer and making sure that they really enjoy the time they spend here with us.
“It is about hard work; commitment; and really believing in what we do.
“Hard work always pays off!
“Three years ago we bought and redeveloped the unit next door to us and expanded.
“The move has really paid off – diners love our new-look, and we are so busy.
“Now we have grown again. We’re very proud to be working with Southport Football Club on their hospitality offering at the club every home match.
“Our family are all big Southport FC supporters! The club are making many positive changes off the pitch, which we hope will translate into even more positive results on the pitch.
“The bigger and the more successful the club can become, the more that everyone in our town, including all the local businesses, will benefit.
“We are optimistic about the future.
“With the right support from supporters and local businesses, they can really thrive.
“Hopefully Volare and Southport FC can continue to bring home more trophies in the years ahead!”
The Small Business Awards Restaurant of the Year Awards Top 10:
- Volare
- JJ Cakes
- Gio’s Italian Deli
- The Old White Horse Inn
- The Hengist Restaurant
- The Spice Circuit Kitchen
- Basilico
- Trancio Ltd
- Angelo’s Trattoria (East Rainton)
- Fermento Contemporary Pizzeria
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Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has stressed the importance of guaranteeing a top-eight Champions League finish after their 3-0 victory in Marseille made it all the more likely.
For only the second time this season Slot’s side beat a top-tier side by three goals – Eintracht Frankfurt the other back in October – courtesy of a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick, an own goal from Geronimo Rulli and a late Cody Gakpo strike.
The win lifted Liverpool into fourth, two points ahead of ninth-placed Barcelona, with Qarabag to come at home next week as they seek to avoid the play-off round and go directly into the last 16.
“It’s very important because we have had to play with the same players because of injuries for most of the season,” said Slot after his side extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches, currently the best in Europe’s top-five leagues.
“That could be the reason why we have run out of energy in some of the games when we’ve conceded.
“I don’t think Virgil (van Dijk) has had more than three days off, the same for Ryan (Gravenberch) and others but they constantly show up no matter how many setbacks we’ve had this season.
“It’s always very difficult to play Marseille because of their passionate fans and the quality of their players, but what makes it even harder is the quality of their manager.
“We were prepared for that. We took the ball off them three or four times in the first half but couldn’t find the player who was completely free, apart from one time and he (Hugo Ekitike) was fractionally offside.
“On the ball we were controlled but what made the difference this time was that after we had a big chance and hit the post, they had a big chance and put it over: usually this season that goes in.
“But we were able to make it 2-0, 3-0 and so that makes the perception of the game completely different.
“Against Burnley (Saturday’s 1-1 draw) we created three or four times more than we did tonight but tonight we scored three.”
The match also marked the return of Mohamed Salah after his month at the Africa Cup of Nations immediately off the back of his explosive comments about being “thrown under the bus” as results took a dive.
“It says a lot about how big a professional he is that he can be away for more than a month with a different team and be so fit to play 90 for us after one day’s training,” added Slot.
“He was so close to a goal, it would usually be a goal from him, but it didn’t harm us because we scored three.”
Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi was unhappy with his team’s performance.
“We played poorly, conceding a silly goal before half-time,” he said.
“We lost possession too often in the middle because we misunderstood the game, we misjudged their pressing. We had a few chances that we didn’t manage well. We still have too many ups and downs in our matches.”
Read the Liverpool vs Marseille match report here.
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Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool return was less impactful than he would have hoped as he was overshadowed by Dominik Szoboszlai in a 3-0 victory in Marseille which made a Champions League top-eight finish all the more likely.
While all eyes were on the Egypt international it was his close friend – and the team’s most consistent performer – who surprised the hosts with a clever free-kick under the wall in first-half added time.
The set-piece probably favoured Salah’s left foot but Szoboszlai took charge with a low shot which crept under the jump of Leonardo Balerdi and inside the post.
Jeremie Frimpong’s second-half cross deflected in off goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli just as pressure was starting to build, before Cody Gakpo’s added-time strike secured only Liverpool’s second win by three goals against a top-tier side this season.
Salah was making his first start since November 26, when Liverpool were humiliated 4-1 at home to PSV Eindhoven, their final defeat of nine in 12 matches prior to the current 12-game unbeaten stretch.
His subsequent omission from the team led to those explosive comments about being “thrown under the bus”, suggesting his relationship with boss Arne Slot had broken down and his own immediate future was in doubt but the Africa Cup of Nations provided a natural break.
He was deployed up front with Hugo Ekitike in a 4-2-2-2 formation, with Florian Wirtz and Szoboszlai as twin number 10s, but the bench was weakened further by injury to Federico Chiesa in the warm-up which left four senior outfield players.
The role appeared to suit Salah with slightly less responsibility to chase back while getting him closer to the penalty area and although he was not heavily involved he looked tuned into his team-mates’ wavelengths despite a month away.
His one chance of the first half saw him divert Frimpong’s cross onto the roof of the net with his hip while an offside flag spared his embarrassment for putting a second-half header wide – but there was no hiding when he screwed wide with only Rulli to beat.
However, this game showed that his influence is no longer match-defining. Wirtz, Szoboszlai and, to a lesser extent, Ekitike now hold sway.
Results on Tuesday had opened the door for Liverpool to avoid the play-offs and Atletico Madrid’s draw in Galatasaray was another boost.
A Marseille tifo featured The Beatles reading a newspaper with the headline ‘Que l’histoire se repete’ – loosely translated as ‘That History repeats itself’ – in reference to the 2-1 UEFA Cup win against Liverpool here in 2004.
Joe Gomez and Alexis Mac Allister both sent early attempts wide but it was the tenacity of Liverpool’s press which brought the first big chance.
Ryan Gravenberch nicked the ball off Michael Murillo and released Salah, who sent Szoboszlai clear on the right. Although Ekitike converted the low cross he had strayed offside.
However, Szoboszlai made it a goal or assist in each of his last five European games by becoming the first Liverpool player since Trent Alexander-Arnold in 2022-23 to score multiple direct free-kicks in a single season.
Alisson Becker saved from Amine Gouiri and Mason Greenwood either side of half-time and as the game opened up Ekitike struck the post and Wirtz forced Rulli into a sharp near-post save.
Timothy Weah had Marseille’s two best efforts before Frimpong’s driving run along the backline brought the relief of a second goal, then substitute Gakpo added the gloss.
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It’s a beautiful landmark red brick building on one of the busiest streets in the city centre.
But it’s what happens inside 98 Paradise Street that’s made it such a popular stop for locals, tourists and football fans alike.
Local artist and architectural illustrator Grace Cummings from Childwall opened art, lifestyle and gift store Wander there in summer 2024.
31-year-old Grace had been one of the creatives who had an upstairs studio and her Grace Emily Design prints for sale at MerseyMade on the same site.
When that closed, she didn’t want to lose what had become a valuable hub for independents, so decided to take it on herself.
Wander now stocks work by more than 30 different artists and makers, championing the talent of local artists and giving them an outlet right in the heart of the city.
Items include jewellery, jam, bags, soaps, candles, clothing, prints, games, books, notepads and diaries with makers such as McCready Bag, Annie Moon Ceramics, Liverpool Jam Co. and Jules B Jewellery.
Ceramicist Annie, who’s from Litherland, is one of those who isn’t just stocked in Wander, she also works there so has a chance to meet fellow artists and also customers.
She said:
“I originally met Grace through MerseyMade, we got on well and when Grace was opening the shop she asked if I’d give her a hand. I’m usually in my studio at home so this is a great opportunity for creative networking.
“When you’re working by yourself, you’re not getting immediate feedback, but here I’m meeting people who are buying my ceramics as well and I get to hear them talking about how much they love something without actually realising it’s me who’s made it.”
Everything on the shelves at Wander comes from creatives who Grace and Annie already know through the art community, or they’ve spotted at local markets. Their DMs are open so they connect via social media too, and get submissions on their website.
“It can be really difficult to get your work seen by people online, so it makes a difference to have a physical showcase and we want Wander to be accessible to everybody,” adds Annie.
“People can come in, browse to find something they like, and we have a little write-up on all our artists so they can read where their things are coming from and find out more about the maker.
“We really want to encourage the people of Liverpool to shop independently and support local, independent makers, and customers do tell us that’s important to them.
“If you go to other cities in the UK, for example Glasgow, there are so many opportunities to support an independent company, whether it’s clothing or art or lifestyle like we have, but in Liverpool there’s a much more limited selection.
“I think because of that people do want to help and build it up if they can rather than seeing another independent business close down.”
With Pocket cafe adjoining, Annie says they often find customers grab a coffee then walk through to look around.
As well as local shoppers, Wander attracts a lot of tourists and fans in the city centre on their way to Liverpool and Everton home games.
“Tourism, and especially football tourism, a big for us,” says Annie.
“Since Eurovision, Liverpool always seems really busy with visitors, it’s just been up and up since then.
“People want to leave with something from where they’ve visited, but maybe not always a traditional souvenir. Liverpool is a very creative city, with such a lot of talent, so they can find it at our shop.”
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Following his own personal experience of cancer, Liverpool housing executive Paul Dolan launches new Cook off for Cancer campaign.
Designed to celebrate the unifying act of sharing food with others, the Cook off for Cancer campaign will consist of a year-long series of culinary fundraising events and initiatives to raise money for national children’s cancer charity Young Lives vs Cancer.
Riverside Chief Executive Paul Dolan knows only too well how life-changing a cancer diagnosis can be after receiving a shock bowel cancer diagnosis in 2024, just two weeks after starting his new role as Chief Executive.
Across the Liverpool City Region, Riverside owns and manages 22,036 homes.
Following successful surgery and a return to work last year, Paul became determined to give something back with a specific focus on children and young people diagnosed with cancer.
Now, inspired by his time working as a Michelin-trained chef with Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons in Oxford, the new Cook off for Cancer campaign will, over the next twelve months, target housing professionals, national and local businesses, celebrity chefs and the public.
Throughout this year, Cook off for Cancer participants will be able to take part in a variety of national and regional events to celebrate the joy of eating with others while also raising donations to support the work of Young Lives vs Cancer.
Those interested in getting involved can request an information pack via Microsoft Forms to receive more information about the fundraising events as well as a suite of campaign materials.
Based across the UK, Young Lives vs Cancer is the leading national charity for children and young people living with cancer and their families. In 2023/2024, the charity supported 227 families in Liverpool through its specialist social worker teams.
Commenting on the personal significance of the Cook off for Cancer campaign, Paul Dolan, Chief Executive of Riverside, said:
“I know first-hand just how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be – not only for yourself but also for those who love you the most. During my treatment I became particularly concerned for my two children who had to learn how to live alongside a parent who has cancer.
“It’s with this in mind that I have started the Cook off for Cancer campaign. Cancer is a cruel disease but especially for children. The important impact that Young Lives vs Cancer has for children and their families cannot be overstated and I hope that many will join me this year in raising as much money as possible for this deserving charity.”
Sue Collins, Director of Fundraising and Engagement at Young Lives vs Cancer, added:
“We’re delighted that Paul Dolan and The Riverside Group have chosen to raise funds for Young Lives vs Cancer. Every penny raised will allow us to continue the vital work we do, supporting children and young people throughout the UK, who are experiencing a cancer diagnosis.
“At Young Lives vs Cancer, we help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time. I want to personally thank Paul and The Riverside Group for believing in our mission and standing with Young Lives vs Cancer.”
Commenting on the impact of Young Lives vs Cancer’s free accommodation service ‘Jack’s House’, Joanne Drea said:
“Jack’s House is such an amazing place and was such a lifeline for my son Isaac and myself. Staying here meant after a day of treatment we didn’t have to make the 40-mile journey home, which could take up to two hours or even more during busy times. With its proximity to the hospital, it meant Isaac could go straight to bed after his chemo/radiotherapy if he needed and he felt comfortable there. Jack’s House really is a ‘home from home’ and the team are wonderful. We have made such good friends with them and still visit them from time to time.”
To donate to the Cook Off for Cancer campaign, click here.
Get more information about Riverside here.
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BOXPARK Liverpool is bringing the city’s biggest Super Bowl LX Live Screening Party, on Sunday 8th February.
The award-winning venue will transform into the ultimate American Football fan zone, combining live sporting action from the USA with an all-out BOXPARK party atmosphere. Guests can expect a full production viewing experience with huge screens, surround sound, and an unbeatable atmosphere from start to finish.
The night will feature DJs, live bands, cheerleaders, and a packed schedule of entertainment and games to keep the party going until the early hours.
BOXPARK Liverpool, in partnership with Coors, will also bring the fun with a bucking bronco, beer pong, giveaways and a series of high-energy eating challenges.
With plenty of food and drink available across the venue, guests can fuel up with BOXPARK Liverpool’s street food traders, including burger kitchen Shake?, Christakis, Rogue Pizza, Simply Salt N Pepper and Yoki Social Table, and enjoy an unmissable range of drinks, including ice-cold Coors, as the biggest night in American sport unfolds.
As well as the main event, guests can look forward to the infamous Super Bowl halftime show, this year featuring Bad Bunny, promising an even bigger late-night spectacle.
Joel Lee, General Manager at BOXPARK Liverpool, said:
“The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sporting events in the world and we’re bringing it to Liverpool in true BOXPARK style. From huge screens and surround sound so you won’t miss a second of the action, to live DJs, bands, games and entertainment running all night long, this is set to be an amazing late-night event for American Football fans and party lovers alike.
“We’re really excited to be hosting the city’s biggest live Super Bowl screening party, with plenty of street food traders serving up incredible dishes, plus challenges, giveaways and the halftime show everyone will be talking about, it’s going to be a night to remember. We can’t wait to welcome everyone down on Sunday 8th February.”
More information and tickets are available on BOXPARK’s website.
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Thousands of messages from around the world helped Reds’ superfan Isaac Kearney on the road to recovery after an operation just over a week ago.
Seven-year-old Isaac, who has the rare Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome, was swamped with Get Well wishes after the surgical procedure at Alder Hey.
Mum Melissa, 34, says people said they wished they had Isaac’s strength, while others praised his bravery and told him ‘you’ll never walk alone’, and she said:
“It’s unbelievable.
“We tell Isaac about all the messages and it makes you realise how much support he has. To know that people are thinking about him has definitely helped him – and us – on his road to recovery, and that’s an amazing feeling.”
The Kirkby mum of three adds:
“I posted news about the operation on social media and one of the first people to like a post after he’d woken up was Darwin Nunez, and when I told Isaac his face lit up.
“It helps so much.”
Isaac became a viral sensation when Melissa started a TikTok account for him about two years ago to give hope and support to other parents of children with Isaac’s condition, and to raise awareness of the syndrome, an extremely rare chromosomal disorder thought to affect around one in 50,000 babies and which impacts cognitive and physical development.
Isaac, who has a sister Florence, five, and six-month old brother Sonny, will face a lifetime of care and medical support.
He went into hospital on January 13 so surgeons could remove his adenoids (tissue which can become enlarged behind the nose) to try to help his breathing after he was diagnosed with sleep apnea which causes it to stop and start in April last year. They also placed grommets (tiny tubes) into his eardrum in a bid to help his hearing.
It was only a small operation but it was the worst procedure Isaac has gone through so far.
Melissa explained:
“It gets harder the older Isaac gets as he becomes more aware of everything,”
“This was one of the most minor operations he’s had but he took it the worst.
“He was fasted before which was hard because for Isaac, who’s been diagnosed with autism too, food is his comfort; and sensory needs mean he hates plasters and anything attached to him like the cannula, and he screamed the hospital down until that was taken out.
“As soon as it was, he was a different child – the Isaac everyone knows and loves.”
Although a minor operation, it is one of more the young LFC fan will probably have to endure this year.
Isaac suffers from cleidocranial dysplasia which means his skull, which should have closed over soon after birth, remained open and consultants looking after him must now operate to break down and rebuild his skull so that the gap no longer remains.
Melissa said:
“They said they wanted to wait until he was seven before they did the reconstruction and Isaac is eight in February and so we are waiting to hear when that might be.
“They will also rebuild his face, to bring it out more, so again that might help his breathing. Otherwise he may have to be put on a CPAP machine at night to deliver pressurised air while he sleeps – and he would definitely hate that!”
What Melissa and husband Alan can be assured of is the support from fans – and non-fans – across the globe.
She said:
“This time we had messages from Brisbane, from Brazil, from Holland and Ireland, all over the world.
“Isaac went to the game on Saturday and people went up to him to check he was okay, one family from Australia again, and another from Poland.
Melissa, a phlebotomist in a GP surgery who’s currently on maternity leave, smiled:
“To know that we have that family of support means so much,”
“Before Isaac went down for his operation I asked people to keep him in their thoughts, and we felt the presence of everyone. That means so much, to have had it then and to know it will be there in the future.
“Isaac realises he is so lucky to have this support, and to have people say how proud they are of him, and it really does help – even though I don’t think he realises how big this all is.
“What he’s going through is hard, and it’s going to get harder. But for him to know that so many people are behind him, and us as a family, is lovely.”
You can keep up to date with Isaac on his Instagram page.
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Since 2006, dot-art has been at the heart of the Liverpool City Region’s cultural landscape, championing local artists and making art accessible to all.
To celebrate their 20th birthday in 2026, the social enterprise is planning a series of events and exhibitions, as well as reflecting on their impact over the past two decades.
February will see the launch of two exhibitions. At the dot-art space at INNSiDE hotel on Old Hall Street, “TWENTY” will showcase large scale work by twenty dot-art Member artists and open with an evening of drinks, nibbles and live music on Thursday 5th February. One week later, on 12th February, the dot-art Gallery will host the launch of “20×20”, another group show, this time focusing on smaller, more affordable works, with each piece measuring just 20x20cm. This pair of exhibitions allows dot-art to showcase as many of their talented artists as possible in this milestone year.
Another highlight is the launch of the dot-art Prize Draw, which will offer the chance to win original artwork worth over £1000 while raising money for their work with schools. Every quarter, the draw will feature a stunning new painting from a dot-art artist, which you could win for just £5 per entry. You’ll be supporting both dot-art’s community of brilliant visual artists, and Art Bytes, their national programme bringing creativity and confidence to young people in schools across England.
Enter the draw here (open until 15th March).
dot-art’s small, dynamic team have achieved a lot in the past twenty years. From 2011 they were the first in the city to deliver regular art classes for working people at evenings and weekends, which ran for 14 years. They introduced an art rental service to the city’s businesses which operates successfully to this day. Shorter term projects include the dot-art Dark Room and the Liverpool Plinth, which gained international publicity. Liverpool Art Fair was started back in 2012 to give artists across the region a selling platform and has gone from strength to strength since moving to the Royal Liver Building in 2023. More recent highlights include the twelve Flower Streets murals, which transformed a neighbourhood in Kirkdale and won awards along the way, and the launch of Art Bytes, a national inter-school art programme based on the success of the dot-art Schools programme in our region since 2012.
Facts and figures:
- 600 artists given long term support
- 21,000 school children engaged
- £5 million in social value for school children
- 30,000 hours of creative teaching delivered
- 68,000 visitors to Liverpool Art Fair
- 2300 artists shown at Liverpool Art Fair
- 100 public and corporate art projects
- 122 exhibitions of local artist’s work
- 54 studio spaces provided
- 750 works of art rented to businesses
- 16 regional and national awards won
Lucy Byrne, dot-art’s founder and Managing Director commented:
“I am incredibly proud and thankful to see dot-art reach this landmark anniversary. Reflecting on the past twenty years, I feel so privileged to have been able to build an organisation I am passionate about, that enriches people’s lives in many ways. Art brings people together, and none of this would have been possible without my fantastic team, past and present, and the many wonderful partners we collaborate with. This could only have been possible in Liverpool where creativity and culture part is part of our DNA. Imagine what we can achieve in the next twenty years!”
After two decades of nurturing creative talent, building confidence, and developing the local art market, dot-art remains committed to their founding belief: art is for everyone. From schoolchildren discovering their creative voice to businesses investing in local talent, from community groups creating murals to individuals finding their perfect artwork – dot-art continues to make visual art accessible, relevant, and life-changing.
Find out more on the Dot Art website.
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Alder Hey has announced a major expansion of its 360° virtual tour, offering children, young people and families an even more immersive way to explore the hospital.
Funded by Alder Hey Children’s Charity, the enhanced virtual tour lets users take a 360° view of Alder Hey’s hospital environment and walk through key spaces as if they were there, all from the comfort of their home. The project supports Alder Hey’s Vision 2030 ambitions to improve patient and family experience through innovation.
Designed specifically to support children and young people, the virtual tour aims to:
- improve the experience of visiting Alder Hey
- help users understand where to go and what different areas look like
- reduce anxiety by familiarising families with clinical and non-clinical spaces before they arrive
The expansion also introduces 52 new embedded videos, bringing the total in the virtual tour to 110, along with avatars of staff and young people and enhanced signage to help users navigate the site more easily and understand what to expect in different areas.
The newly expanded model now includes a wide range of additional clinical, research and community spaces across the Alder Hey campus and beyond, including Alder Hey’s MediCinema, Catkin Centre, Medical laboratories and Innovation Hub. It also features several community and outreach buildings.
With this latest phase complete, an additional 125,585 square feet has been mapped, bringing the combined total across phases one and two to 313,585 square feet. The project now represents the first full hospital map of its kind and the largest 360° hospital model in Europe.
Nathan Askew, Chief Nurse at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“By mapping newer areas and expanding our 360° virtual map, we’re allowing families to see more of Alder Hey before they arrive, helping them understand where they’re going and what to expect. We know from the positive feedback from the initial virtual map that this helps to reduce anxiety and improve the overall experience.”
Since its original launch, the virtual tour has attracted more than 30,000 visits and has been used by over 17,000 people, demonstrating its value in helping families feel more prepared and confident ahead of appointments or admissions.
Explore Alder Hey via their virtual tour, HERE.
Find out more about the incredible work of Alder Hey on our website.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided an update on the Liverpool FC squad heading to Marseille for their Champions League fixture.
Salah was included in the travelling squad which flew to the south of France after finishing fourth with Egypt on Saturday.
That was at least better than their previous European game against Inter Milan when the 33-year-old was left at home following his explosive comments after the 3-3 draw with Leeds.
He accused the club of throwing him “under the bus” after results took a dive, suggested he had no relationship with Slot and questioned his future.
Salah returned as a first-half substitute against Brighton but left for Morocco with his position still under a cloud.
Marseille is the first chance to gauge whether there has been much progress on that front.
Asked about his current relationship with Salah, Slot said:
“As normal as it’s always been, with one exception and that was Inter.
“Let’s see for the line-up tomorrow if you still think there’s an issue. I spoke to him today and I’m happy to have him back.
“There’s been a moment in the season where I decided not to play Mo and one moment where I decided not to take him to the game.
“For all the other games he’s been in the squad and was the first substitution against Brighton so at that moment of time, there’s never been an issue for me.”
Salah’s absence may have been beneficial to him as the team’s 12-match unbeaten run has been far from convincing, with four of their six draws coming in the last five matches.
With Liverpool struggling to finish off opponents the Egyptian, whose last club goal came on November 1, has an opportunity to make an impact after scoring four in six AFCON games.
“He went to AFCON and did what he usually does and scored goals,” added Slot.
“In his absence I think we have done quite OK in terms of hardly conceding any chances and starting to create more and more…then it is really helpful to have Mohamed Salah.
“There has only been one (player still alive) who scored more for this club but I don’t think I can play Ian Rush still.”
Slot was asked whether he felt under more pressure now Xabi Alonso had been sacked by Real Madrid and whether the former Liverpool midfielder had spoken to him.
“Yes he called me and said ‘What do you think about the team because I am going to take over in six months, can you tell me a little bit more?’ Or maybe earlier, maybe he takes over tomorrow,” the Dutchman joked.
“That is the weirdest question I ever got.”
Slot will speak to centre-back Ibrahima Konate, who is in France but did not travel with the squad for personal issues, to see whether he could be available.
Book tickets for Anfield experinces here.
There is still time to save on your Anfield Experinces this January find out more here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
While most of us love to sing, we can’t claim to sound as smooth as Sinatra or have the range of Mariah.
But there’s a city choir that would happily welcome your dulcet tones regardless: no fees; no waiting list, and no audition!
The Royal Court Community Choir is celebrating 15 years this year, boasting more than 100 members – and still counting!
And as the New Year New You ethos in January challenges everyone to consider a fresh start and introduce different hobbies, it’s issuing an invitation to everyone to ‘come and join us’.
Miriam Musso, head of community engagement for the Roe Street Theatre, says:
“The arts should be open to everyone and a choir should be open to everyone.
“I believe you shouldn’t have a waiting list, you shouldn’t have auditions, it should be free, and you should just let people come. We’ve removed all the barriers for people to engage in the arts in some way which I personally feel passionate about.”
The Royal Court Community Choir was started in 2011 under the leadership of Jay McWinen who, in the last year, has handed over the reins to city singer Sophie Leaver (‘although he still plans to come back from time to time’).
Miriam says:
“I came the same year to do a specific job, and I was like, why don’t we do this? Why don’t we do that? And a choir was one of those things I thought we could do.
“I was speaking to a variety of people who came here – we do our afternoon variety lunch clubs – and they agreed a choir would be great, so we decided to try it and see.
“At the first session we had about 12 or 13 people, and we now have over 100 members with an average of 60-70 people each week.
“It’s a fun thing for people who have always loved to sing,” adds Miriam. “And it’s a social thing.
“Everyone’s abilities and reasons for joining are different. We have people who are retired and used to be in a choir at school, and we have people who say it’s a lifesaver, it gets them out and into the theatre and mixing with people. It’s absolutely wonderful.
“Friendship groups have been formed with people meeting for lunch or in the afternoon before coming here, and that is just lovely.
“We have all different ages from around 25 to 80. Anyone from 18 can come, but it’s just organically grown like that.”
Miriam adds:
“I always say people talk with their feet. If no-one turned up, we wouldn’t do it. But they do and I can see the joy in people’s faces, I can see they love it.
“And Jay has been a real asset as I’m sure Sophie will be too.”
The choir is held on a Monday evening between 5-7pm, and sings a variety of music, from the 50s and 60s to the present day.
Members of the choir have sung at events across the city, as well as in performances at the Royal Court where productions have needed a little ensemble, or for special shows.
They performed a Eurovision medley on the main stage when the competition came to the city and they’ve sung at Pride events, at the Sefton Park and Isla Gladstone Palm Houses, and for other community venues and projects’ events.
“The choir is also invited to watch theatre dress rehearsals because they’re a ready-made audience,” smiles Miriam.
Choirmaster Sophie, 28, a singer, vocal coach and choral director based in Prescot, says:
“I got involved as I was looking to work with a friendly group of people and I just loved the atmosphere as soon as I came along to my first rehearsal.
“This choir offers a sense of community, friendship and we have lots of laughs! We learn a range of music in many different styles – and even different languages.
“Not only is singing great for your physical health, it helps support wellbeing and good mental health. And if you love to sing, you are welcome in our choir. There are no other requirements.
“So if you’re looking to try something new, make new friends and have some lovely experiences, you’re welcome to join us.”
Find out more on the Royal Court Theatre website.
Find more music events across Liverpool on our calendar.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Mohamed Salah could be about to make his Liverpool return in tomorrow’s Champions League clash at Marseille.
The Egypt forward has been included in Arne Slot’s travelling squad after rejoining his team-mates for training on Tuesday following his exploits at the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, France centre-back Ibrahima Konate was absent from the lunchtime session and the squad list due to personal reasons and it is understood he is already back in his homeland.
Salah departed for international duty last month with his Anfield future seemingly in doubt following a dispute with head coach Slot.
Having been being left out of the side for three matches, Salah conducted an explosive interview in which he accused the club of throwing him “under the bus” after results took a dive.
He also suggested he had no relationship with Slot and questioned whether he would remain at the club – comments which resulted in him being left out of the squad which travelled to Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Salah returned to the fold as a substitute against Brighton but his future has remained uncertain since.
However, he seemed in good spirits as he took part in a training session open to media ahead of Liverpool’s trip to France for their latest league phase fixture.
Arne Slot said he was looking forward to seeing Mo Salah return to the squad, read more here.
Get the latest Liverpool FC news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Scouse Games, Liverpool’s first-ever inflatable games experience, has officially launched, offering visitors a loud, unapologetic celebration of modern Liverpool.
The experience transforms the city’s most infamous characters and icons into giant custom-built inflatables, creating a full-throttle, round-robin games competition unlike anything else in the UK.
Built by the award-winning creators of The Romans, one of the city’s most talked-about immersive experiences, Scouse Games is already being tipped as part of a new wave of Liverpool tourism — one that prioritises authenticity, humour, and cultural identity over generic sightseeing.
The creators previously won Tourism Business of the Year at the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards (2022), and are now back with something louder, bolder, and unapologetically Scouse.
At the heart of Scouse Games are seven original inflatable challenges inspired by Liverpool’s most notorious characters.
Despite the Scouse Games website having been live for just two months, the experience has already been signed up by four major UK hen and stag agencies, including Chillisauce, GoHen, StagWeb, and The Stag Company.
Bookings are already flying in through both partner agencies and direct enquiries, with industry insiders pointing to Scouse Games as one of the fastest-adopted group experiences currently launching in a UK city.
The early traction suggests strong demand from visitors looking for something unmistakably Liverpool — not a generic activity that could exist anywhere else.
Founder Joe Clarke, creator of Scouse Games, said:
“Liverpool doesn’t need another generic attraction. What people want now is something real — something that feels like the city. Scouse Games is loud, unapologetic, and absolutely rooted in local humour. If you come to Liverpool and don’t play Scouse Games… did you even come to Liverpool?”
Forget tribute bands and coach tours. Scouse Games is hosted by real Scousers and delivered with razor-sharp banter from start to finish.
Each group is led by a dedicated Scouse host who keeps score, controls the chaos, and takes the mick at every opportunity. The result is a high-energy sporting spectacle that feels less like a tourist attraction and more like a local legend.
Clarke added:
“There’s nothing else like this in the UK,”
“We’re not selling a postcard version of Liverpool — we’re selling the personality. The humour, the energy, the pride. This is the city in inflatable form.”
Find out more about Scouse Games here.
Find more great days out in Liverpool on our website.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
New lung cancer checks that have saved hundreds of lives across Cheshire and Merseyside will launch in Southport and Formby at the end of January.
NHS Lung Cancer Screening has been finding lung problems – including cancer at its earliest stages when it is much easier to treat successfully – for several years in Liverpool, Halton, Knowsley, St Helens, Wirral, Warrington and south Sefton, and will roll out in the Southport and Formby Primary Care Network (PCN) area from January 27th.
More than 2.5million people in England aged 55 to 74 who smoke or used to smoke have already been invited for Lung Cancer Screening as part of the biggest programme to improve early lung cancer diagnosis in health service history. The free checks pinpoint those most at risk and they are offered a chest scan to rule out health problems or prompt more investigation or treatment.
In Cheshire and Merseyside, since checks began in 2019, more than 700 lung cancers have been found, with 80% diagnosed at the early stages of 1 or 2 when treatment is easier. People diagnosed with lung cancer at an early stage are nearly 20 times more likely to survive for five years than those whose disease is found late.
Lung Cancer Screening – formerly known as Targeted Lung Health Checks – will be offered to eligible patients from 14 GP practices in the PCN on over several months. People will receive an appointment for the check in a text or letter before a telephone interview with a member of the screening team. If the patient is classed as higher risk, they will be offered a CT scan in a mobile unit which will be situated on the car park of Dunes Leisure Centre, on Southport’s Esplanade. This scan is far more accurate at picking up cancer than a standard X-ray. The programme also offers support on how best to quit smoking for those who are ready to give up.
Lung cancer is the UK’s biggest cancer killer, claiming the lives of more people than breast, prostate and pancreatic cancers combined. It is a particular issue in parts of Cheshire and Merseyside, with local incidence significantly above the national average.
However, Lung Cancer Screening can significantly improve survival rates by detecting cancer much earlier, even before symptoms appear. But for the checks to work, people need to attend their appointment – even if they feel well.
Dr Chris Warburton, Lung Cancer Screening Clinical Director of Programme, said:
“We are delighted that eligible people in Southport and Formby will soon be able to have these checks.
‘’We’ve seen the amazing impact of them since the programme was first launched. Lung cancer can be difficult to detect early, which is why so many people are diagnosed when the disease has become incurable. But screening is helping us to diagnose more people earlier when cancer is far easier to treat.
“That’s why we want everyone who is given an appointment to attend it. The chances are that you won’t have any symptoms of lung problems – but should have the check whether you feel well or not. For the majority of those who attend, everything will be fine, but for those who do have something wrong, catching it early can make all the difference.
“Screening is painless, quick, convenient, and free of charge, so if you are given an appointment for one. Please do not ignore it.”
For more information about Lung Cancer Screening in Cheshire and Merseyside, click here.
Joy was spread across the city centre yesterday to tackle Blue Monday, find out more here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
The Glow Green Night Walk is back in Liverpool this February, celebrating its fifth year of lighting up the city in support of people living with cancer across the Liverpool City Region.
Organised by Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, the much-loved event sees hundreds of walkers take on an 8k route through Liverpool city centre, with landmarks glowing green, live entertainment along the way and a powerful sense of togetherness throughout the night.
Last year alone, 1,500 walkers raised £270,000 to support patients treated at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool, Wirral and its network of chemotherapy clinics across Merseyside and Cheshire. This year’s walk takes place at 7.30pm on Friday 6 February, starting from the Museum of Liverpool on the waterfront.
Here are five great reasons to be part of Glow Green Liverpool 2026.
A brilliant night out with friends, family or colleagues.
Glow Green is all about coming together. Whether you’re dressing up in green with friends, heading out with workmates or walking with family, the event offers a fun, feel-good evening with a purpose. The route takes in some of Liverpool’s most iconic sights, including Liverpool Cathedral, Hope Street, St George’s Hall and the Town Hall, with choirs and entertainers providing motivation along the way. Even if you come along solo, you’ll be part of a welcoming community united by a shared cause.
Supporting life-changing cancer research in the Liverpool City Region.
By taking part, you’ll be helping fund vital research carried out right here. Over the past year, supporters raised more than £1.85 million to support clinical trials and new treatments, with Clatterbridge Cancer Charity committing to raise £5 million over five years for research. Recent funding has supported studies into breast cancer that spreads to the brain, new immunotherapy treatments and specialist research staff. As Dr Valentine Umeobiorah, Clinical Fellow at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, says, the support of fundraisers is crucial to keeping cancer care at the forefront.
Helping young cancer patients feel supported.
The sponsorship money raised through Glow Green helps fund projects that make a real difference to patients’ lives. This includes lunch clubs and social activities for teenage and young adult patients, helping them connect with others going through similar experiences. Leon, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at 21, praised the Teenage and Young Adult team, calling the nurses “the absolute best at what they do”. Walkers are asked to raise £50 in sponsorship, with every pound helping to create moments of normality during treatment.
Bringing music and art into cancer care.
Thanks to Glow Green and other fundraising events, patients at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre can access a wide-ranging Arts in Health Programme. Last year alone, more than 2,000 patients benefited from activities including arts and crafts, music and poetry. The programme delivered new artworks in hospital spaces, activity packs and live musical performances across Clatterbridge sites, helping patients find moments of calm and escape during treatment.
Funding specialist radiotherapy bras for breast cancer patients.
Funds raised also help provide specialist radiotherapy bras for women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Last year, the charity provided more than £6,400 to fund these garments, which can support the effectiveness of treatment for some patients and improve comfort during a challenging time.
The Glow Green Night Walk Liverpool takes place on Friday 6 February at 7.30pm. Anyone who wants to be part of this special fifth anniversary event can sign up now and help make a real difference to cancer care across Liverpool and beyond.
Find out more here.
Check out Clatterbridge Cancer Centre’s new initiative to give community more access to pioneering research.
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.
One of the most iconic ghost stories ever staged is heading back to Liverpool, as The Woman in Black returns to the Liverpool Playhouse for a strictly limited run from Tuesday 24 to Saturday 28 February.
Based on Susan Hill’s chilling novel, the legendary production was last seen at the Playhouse during the Christmas season in 2023, where it proved a big hit with local audiences. Since its debut, the show has been experienced by more than seven million people across the UK and remains one of the most successful thrillers in theatre history.
The Woman in Black famously enjoyed a record-breaking 33-year run in London’s West End, clocking up more than 13,000 performances at the Fortune Theatre. Its return to Liverpool brings that same spine-tingling atmosphere back to the city centre stage.
This production stars John Mackay as Arthur Kipps, a lawyer haunted by a curse he believes has been cast upon his family. Mackay’s theatre credits include The Doctor at the Duke of York’s Theatre and performances at New York’s Park Avenue Armory, while TV audiences will recognise him from The Crown and Bridgerton. He is joined by Daniel Burke as The Actor, whose previous roles include the UK tour of The Girl on the Train and Troilus and Cressida for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Stephen Mallatratt’s adaptation follows Kipps as he attempts to recount and rid himself of a terrifying experience involving the mysterious Woman in Black. With the help of a young actor, what begins as a simple retelling soon becomes something far more unsettling, as imagination and reality blur and the horror takes hold.
The production is directed by Robin Herford, with Antony Eden as Associate Director. Design comes from Michael Holt, with sound design by Sebastian Frost and lighting by Kevin Sleep, all combining to create the show’s trademark tension and creeping dread.
Speaking about the return, director Robin Herford said revisiting the production allows it to feel new again, thanks to each cast bringing fresh imagination and emotional depth to the roles, ensuring the story remains as powerful and frightening as ever.
The Woman in Black runs at the Liverpool Playhouse from Tuesday 24 to Saturday 28 February.
Tickets are available now via everymanplayhouse.com.
Full cast is revealed for St Helens panto this February half term – check it out.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
A celebration of the life and music of George Harrison is heading back to Liverpool as Something About George – The George Harrison Story returns on its spring 2026 tour.
The acclaimed stage show will arrive at Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre on 21 February 2026, as part of a second leg of dates across Britain and Ireland, following sell-out performances and widespread praise last year.
The production comes from the team behind Something About Lennon, which honours Liverpool icon John Lennon, and was originally premiered at the Liverpool Theatre Festival in 2021, where it received an enthusiastic reception. Since then, it has gone on to win accolades at the Edinburgh Fringe and play to packed-out theatres nationwide.
Fronted by West End performer and musician Daniel Taylor, the show tells the story of the so-called “quiet Beatle”, tracing George Harrison’s journey through The Beatles, his groundbreaking solo career and his time as part of supergroup The Traveling Wilburys.
Audiences can expect live performances of much-loved songs including My Sweet Lord, Something, Got My Mind Set on You and Handle With Care, alongside a selection of Beatles classics that helped define a generation.
Daniel Taylor, who has previously played John Lennon on stage and appeared in productions including Blood Brothers and Twopence to Cross The Mersey, is joined by a live band led by musical director Joe Smithson.
Producer Bill Elms said the return to Liverpool feels particularly special.
“We had an incredible response from audiences when the show played Liverpool before, including two sold-out performances in George Harrison’s birthplace,” he said. “It’s only right that the story returns to the city as part of this new run of dates.”
Something About George celebrates Harrison’s songwriting, spirituality and influence, offering a moving tribute to a musician whose legacy continues to resonate across generations.
Something About George – The George Harrison Story
Epstein Theatre, Liverpool
Friday 21 February 2026
Tickets and full tour details are available here.
A documentary about what Sir Paul McCartney did after the Beatles split is being released – check it out.
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.
Mohamed Salah has returned to Liverpool FC after the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt and will be assessed ahead of the squads trip to Marseille for Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League match.
The forward is back on Merseyside a month after he departed with his future seemingly in doubt after becoming embroiled in a dispute with head coach Arne Slot.
After being left out of the side for three matches, he conducted an explosive interview after the chaotic draw at Leeds in which he accused the club of throwing him “under the bus” after results took a dive.
He also suggested he had no relationship with Slot and questioned whether he would remain at the club – comments which resulted in him being left out of the squad which travelled to Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Salah returned to the squad for the home game against Brighton and was an early first-half substitute for Joe Gomez, but he left for Morocco with his future still under a cloud.
Liverpool are scheduled to train on Tuesday lunchtime before heading to France and Salah, who played on Saturday as Egypt lost the third-place play-off, could rejoin his team-mates for that.
Close friend Dominik Szoboszlai was in daily contact with Salah while he was away but declined to offer any insight into the forward’s mindset.
Szoboszlai said:
“We speak about everything (but) that’s between me and him,” the midfielder said. “He will come back and then we just keep on going.
“He will be here and it’s the decision of the manager and the club. It is not about us, it is about him.”
Szoboszlai is determined to put the worst week of his Liverpool career behind him as the Champions League returns with a top-eight place at stake.
The Hungary captain hit the crossbar with a first-half penalty in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Burnley, five days after he gifted Barnsley a goal with a backheel in his own six-yard box.
Szoboszlai still has a lot of credit in the bank – he began the FA Cup win over the Tykes with a brilliant 35-yard strike – as the team’s best player this season, but he is determined to rediscover his high standards.
He said:
“For me, personally, it was a tough one,”
“I made a mistake against Barnsley but I have to make it clear it wasn’t disrespectful, in my opinion, and I would do the same against Arsenal, City and against Chelsea as well.
“I wanted to keep going but I tried to pretend that I was playing it back (to goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili) – just to make it clear.
“I missed a penalty but I’m going to keep on going. I’m going to take the next one and I’m going to score, I’m pretty sure.
“You have to forget it, that’s the best, but of course you have to have learned from it.
“To be honest, if you see me after every session, I cannot practise more – and I’m not allowed to practise more because I’m practising as much as I can. I will keep on practising and if I have another chance I will take it.”
Szoboszlai’s future seems clearer, with talks continuing over a new contract.
He said:
“There is always progress but no decision has been made and I’ll just keep on going every week, every training, giving my best for the team, for the fans,”
“Let’s see what is going to happen in the future. Of course I am happy here but you know how football works and that is something everybody has to take into account.”
Arne Slot said he was looking forward to seeing Mo Salah return to the squad, read more here.
Get the latest Liverpool FC news here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
We’ve found more January deals in Liverpool than ever before for 2026 and will keep them coming throughout the month!
After buying pressies and enjoying all the festive celebrations, most of us are a bit brassic by now – but that doesn’t mean you have to sit at home feeling sad it’s all over.
There’s some amazing deals across restaurants, hotels and attractions this January that mean you can have a happy New Year and start 2026 how you mean to go on – enjoying yourself!
Bars & Restaurants
Voyagers Restaurant & Bar
Shift those January blues at Voyagers where you can get 50% off its lunch and dinner menus, available Monday to Friday from now until January 31; and a Liverpool-themed Afternoon Tea for two for £49.
Find out more here.
Zeus Taverna
The Santorini inspired Greek restaurant on Castle Street has either 2 courses for £20 or 3 small plates for £20 this January. Both are on offer Sunday to Thursday 12-4pm.
Find out more here.
Akasya
One of Liverpool’s top 3 restaurants for the past 4 years on Tripadvisor, has a 2 course offer this January for £15.95. Available Sunday to Friday until 5pm.
Find out more here.
Murphy’s Tavern
Get a small plate or dessert for free when you buy a main. You can also get a free hot drink with any breakfast purchased.
Find out more here.
The Harp (formerly Abbey Road Bar & Kitchen)
Available from Thursday 8th January when the venue opens again for the New Year its 50% off all food. T&C’s Apply.
Zenn Liverpool
Get 50% off on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays including Sunday lunch. Excluding Bottomless brunch on Saturday.
Panoramic 34
Panoramic 34, Liverpool’s highest restaurant, is offering 2-for-1 on selected cocktails that are carefully crafted by their talented mixologists. Available Wednesday to Friday from 5-7pm.
The stunning fine dining restaurant is also treating guests to a complimentary glass of fizz or wine when guests book their new Lunch Menu between Monday-Friday.
Hafla Hafla @ the Baltic
Loved for its falafel kebabs, halloumi fries and gorgeous Middle Eastern mezze, Hafla Hafla’s celebrating January with 25% off Sunday–Friday on all the classics at its original Baltic Market home.
Find out more here.
Frederiks
Head to Hope Street and you’ll find Fred’s ready to welcome you with half price food all month when you book in advance. The deal’s available Monday to Saturday, from 12 midday, until January 31.
Find out more here.
The Lake House, Crosby
The Lake House next to Crosby Marine Lake is offering 50% off food bills throughout January, Monday to Saturday from 4pm, and you get that lovely waterside setting free! Just book a table via its website.
Find out more here.
Madre
After a year of serious margs, tacos and partying, Madre at the Albert Dock has an extra gift to kick off 2026 – a January sale. It’s serving up 50% off Sunday to Friday until the end of the month.
Find out more here.
Maray
As if a disco cauli wasn’t already enough of a treat for the new year, now it’s twice as good because – along with all the other veggie and vegan dishes at Maray – it’s 50% off thanks to Green January.
Find out more here.
Three Piggies
The lovely neighbourhood alehouse and canteen Three Piggies is offering unlimited use 25% off food throughout January. Join their mailing list to be sent a voucher valid until the end of this month for their delicious brunches, luscious lunches and fab Sunday roasts!
Find out more here.
Chamber 36
Chinese small plates favourite Chamber 36 is having a January sale and the menu discount is … 36%. That’s what you’ll get knocked off Sunday to Thursday, booking recommended but walk-ins welcome.
Find out more here.
Buyers Club
If it’s a good habit, why break it? There’s a resolution for the new year. This is Buyers Club’s 4th year doing deal January and 2026 sees the return of 50% off pizza & pasta, Monday to Thursday, 12pm–9pm.
Find out more here.
Free State Kitchen
FSK’s the home of super-tasty American classics and throughout this month it’s doing its bit to beat the January blues with 2 for 1 on burgers and dogs, all day Wed and Thurs, Friday 12-4 and Sunday 12-3.
Find out more here.
Petit Cafe du Coin
Petit Cafe du Coin has got a special winter warmer offer you can enjoy. When you buy a bottle of wine, you can have one of its delicious cheeseboards for only £6. Offer is available Mon – Thurs Berry St and Weds – Thurs Lark Lane.
Find out more here.
Big Lola’s
January deals aren’t just for the city centre, Big Lola’s is bringing the new year love to Smithdown too, serving up £5 large roast chicken, roast veg and vegan burritos, 12pm-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday.
Find out more here.
La Finca Eivissa
Ibiza might feel like a long way away right now, but you can get a flavour close to home – and much cheaper because La Finca Eivissa’s doing 50% off selected tapas until January 29.
Find out more here.
Gusto
If it’s Italian favourites plus a great dockside setting you fancy, head to Gusto where this January you can enjoy signature dishes like fillet steak and pulled pork gnocchi at January sale prices, all day Sun-Fri.
Find out more here.
Revolucion de Cuba
For comfort food with a Cuban twist, Rev de Cuba at the Albert Dock’s got you sorted and if you sign up and join its mailing list you’ll get 33% off food until January 29.
Find out more here.
Masons
Masons on Seel Street, is starting 2026 with a bang by launching an unbeatable January offer designed to lift spirits and create unforgettable memories.
The venue has reduced the price of its bottomless brunch from £49 to just £39 per person, giving brunch lovers the perfect excuse to banish the January blues in style.
Find out more here.
Revolution
Another 33% off deal at the dock, this time from Revolution, which is taking a third off its sandwiches, burgers, bowls, pizza, mains and desserts on the Revs app, until January 29.
Find out more here.
Rosa’s Thai Cafe
For just £16, enjoy one of two exclusive dine-in bundles: STICK with Rosa’s much-loved Pad Thai paired with a refreshing pint of Singha, or TWIST things up with the classic Khao Mun Gai (Thai Chicken Rice), served alongside a traditional Thai Tea.
Available Sunday to Thursday from 6–29 January, diners simply need to sign up via the link to receive a unique code to redeem in-restaurant.
Find out more here.
Mowgli
Mowgli Street Food has launched a new Lite Tiffin inviting guests to enjoy vibrant, flavoursome Indian home-style food at just 600 calories per person.
Designed for sharing and packed with classic bold and zingy Mowgli flavours, the new Lite Tiffin contains 2 curries and a portion of rice to share, as well as a chat bomb and soft drink per person – all under 600 calories each, and at just £15 per head.
This January, Mowgli also welcomes back a much-loved fan favourite, Tangled Greens. This vibrant, dish returns to the menu as part of Mowgli’s refreshed sharing offering, or is a great curry companion side dish.
Find out more here.
Botanico
Botanico, Woolton Village’s cosy all day eatery, is giving guests the chance to enjoy 50% off pizza and pasta on Monday-Fridays from 12-9pm throughout January. Tables must be pre-booked in the family and dog friendly restaurant and can be secured via the website
Find out more here.
Tempest on Tithebarn
Don’t hang around on this one because it’s only on until Saturday January 10 – Tempest on Tithebarn is offering two-for-one on its burgers all week, all day, so you can grab a half price lunch or dinner.
Find out more here.
Restaurant Bar & Grill
What better (tastier) way to see in 2026 than with the 26 Collection menu at Restaurant Bar & Grill – it’s available all month, with two courses for £26 and winter classics like fish and chips, and cottage pie.
Miller and Carter
Start the year on a high note at Miller & Carter with its indulgent Rare Treats Menu. Available until the end of January, diners can enjoy two courses from £25.95 or three courses from £29.95, featuring a selection of the steakhouse’s much-loved classics and luxurious dishes.
Find out more here.
Seaforth Restaurant at The Municipal
Throughout January, enjoy 26% off the à la carte menu (food only, available daily), or celebrate the new year with a complimentary glass of Champagne when dining from the Time to Dine menu (available Monday–Saturday, 12pm–6pm).
Find out more here.
Hawksmoor
The city steak favourite’s brought back its beloved steak and sides menu this January, offering a 35-day dry-aged British beef protein-fuelled rump with a choice of four sides – bitter leaf & Devon Blue salad, English lettuce salad, baked sweet potato, or beef dripping chips – all for £16.
Find out more here.
Junkyard Golf Club
It’s Happy Hour ALL DAY, EVERY DAY at Junkyard with £6 cocktails, £4 pints and £3.50 mocktails, and you can get any portion of nachos and a house pint for £10 until the end of January (as well as 50% off crazy golf). Book online or walk in and head to the bar!
Find out more here.
The Italian Club Restaurant
Keep the festivities going at The Italian Club in Bold Street where you’ll get a free bottle of house wine when two people order a starter and main course between Sunday and Thursday, until January 29.
Find out more here.
Almost Famous
From Monday to Thursday all this month, everything is half price – that’s 50% off the dripping down your arms no nonsense burgers, sides like fried buttermilk chicken and gooey mac and cheese balls, chips and fries … the lot!
Find out more here.
Byron
The Liverpool ONE hamburger restaurant’s offering 50% off burgers between Sunday and Thursday, and free Fries with your burger on Fridays and Saturdays throughout January. Sign up to Byron Club to claim.
Find out more here.
Churrasco Steak House
From Sunday to Friday (Friday until 7pm) throughout January you can get 50% off starters, flat iron steaks and burgers; and on Fridays you can get a free bottle of wine with any Big Cut Steak.
Find out more here.
Alchemist
The Alchemist is getting all nostalgic this January with cocktails & dishes all its original 2010 prices! So that means cocktails from £6 and dishes from £5 until January 30 – any day, any time.
Find out more here.
Black Cat Club
From Sunday to Thursday (and 12-5pm Friday) you can enjoy a £5 all day food menu; £5 margaritas, frozen cocktails and pints, and 60 mins of gaming, again for just a fiver.
Find out more here.
El Gato Negro
Join the mailing list to get three dishes for £20 all day Sunday- Thursday, and from 12pm-5pm on Fridays, along with Sangria and Spritz for just £6.
Find out more here.
Browns
Enjoy two of crafted classic cocktails for just £18, available Monday to Sunday until January 31, and £10 off selected bottles of fizz.
Find out more here.
Attractions
LFC Stadium Tour and Abseil
Throughout January, you can enjoy two for one on the LFC Stadium Tour & Museum using code JANSALE26 (Monday-Friday only) or, if you fancy an adrenaline-fuelled adventure to launch you into the New Year, you can take on the Anfield Abseil and get 25% off (code JANSALEABSEIL26).
BOXPARK
There’s loads of January offers at the Cains Brewery Village venue: like a Trader lunchtime meal deal for just £8 at favourites like Rogue Pizza, Christakis and Simply Salt N Pepper, and kids skate free until January 11 (with any adult booking). It’s also Wellness Month at BOXPARK who’ve teamed up with PUREGYM to offer free yoga, Pilates and HIIT sessions to kickstart health and fitness in 2026.
Find out more here.
Liverpool ONE
Up to 70% off still in the sales, restaurant deals, 2-4-1 cocktails, and all sorts of offers at your favourite attractions make January a better time than ever to visit the city’s celebrated complex, and if you become one of its PLUS+ Members, you can get access to even more offers, birthday rewards, early access to events, competitions, and more.
Find out more here.
Chester Zoo
Winter’s a great time for a visit to the zoo and this January you can save up to 34% on the cost of a standard ticket which costs £25 instead of the usual £38 (for adults) as long as you buy it online before 9.30am on the day you’re going.
Find out more here.
National Express
National Express is launching a limited-time sale, providing travellers with a budget-friendly way to travel across the UK this winter or spring. The flash sale is available for three days only, from 20 January, offering up to 50% off fares.
Key details of the offer are below:
- Book between: 20 – 23 January 2026
- Travel between: 23 January – 22 May 2026
- 25% off using promo code FLASHSALE when booking 3–14 days in advance of travel
- 50% off using promo code FLASHSALE when booking 15+ days in advance of travel
- Bookings must be made at least 3 days before date of travel
- Offer is only available online or via the National Express app
- Excludes festival, events and third-party services
Find out more here.
Cheshire Oaks
The sale’s still on at Cheshire Oaks with extra savings on outlet prices – up to 70% off at Michael Kors and Tommy Hilfiger – along with new stores to explore like Joseph, Whistles and Playmobil, and new restaurants including Vietnamese street food favourite Pho.
Find out more here.
Knowsley Safari
There are some roaringly good deals at Knowsley Safari with 40% off ticket prices between Friday and Sunday from Friday, January 9 to Friday, February 13. Just book online at least a day in advance.
Find out more here.
Gravity MAX
Beat the winter slump or start the year with midweek fun with your mates without busting your budget. From Mondays to Thursdays throughout January you can get an hour of Digital Darts or Urban Street Golf for just £9.50 per person at Gravity MAX!
Find out more here.
PINS Social Club
From now until the end of the month there’s 50% off absolutely everything at the Duke Street venue between Monday and Thursday. That’s food, drink, games … like we said – everything!
Find out more here.
Strawberry Field
Strawberry Field is giving visitors 20% off entry all this month, just enter the code WINTER at checkout when you book. Visit the exhibition to learn how a children’s home owned by The Salvation Army inspired John Lennon to write one of the greatest songs of all time … and enjoy a nice warm drink in the Imagine More Café!
Find out more here.
Roxy Ball Room
If you’re still celebrating the New Year you can get a free pint of Lucky Saint by joining Roxy’s mailing list – and if you’re doing Dry January, then Roxy has teamed up with Everleaf and Proof Drinks to offer great deals on low and 0% cocktails.
Find out more here.
Theatres
Liverpool Philharmonic
You can SAVE 25% by booking for two or more Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra selected concerts online or by calling 0151 709 3789 with the promo code JANOFFER. Be quick – you’ve got until January 21 to book!
Find out more here.
Hotels
Winter Escapes at Hope Street Hotel
You can get in from the cold and chill inside instead! The Hope Street Hotel’s Winter Escapes package is offering a stay in a super-king or twin bedroom from just £99 until now until March 20.
Find out more here.
Step into Winter at Titanic Hotel
Enjoy a cosy night away in a Superior Room with a bottle of wine in your room on arrival, two course dinner in Stanley’s Bar and Grill and a Titanic breakfast from £175, based on two sharing! Available on selected dates this month.
Find out more here.
Seasonal Reawakening Wellness Experience at Municipal Hotel and Spa
And relax… from January to March you can book this restoring and rebalancing experience for just £149 per person. It’s available Sunday to Friday and includes two hours of spa and thermal journey access, a 50-minute bespoke spa treatment, and afternoon tea in the Botanic Tearoom.
Find out more here.