The oldest pub in Southport town centre has now reopened!    The Cheshire Lines Inn, on King Street, is welcoming customers once again after being closed for the past two and a half years. The famous Grade II Listed venue first opened over 200 years ago, in 1817 – two years after the Battle of Waterloo. Victoria Ashworth is in place as the Manager until a permanent licensee is installed.  She is already busy making a number of changes, including improving the ‘secret garden’ to the rear, and introducing karaoke and other attractions. She said: “We have been open for three weeks now, things have been going well. Most days are busy! The customers have made me feel very welcome. “We are getting the word out about the Cheshire Lines being back. “This is a real community pub. People are delighted to see the place open again. It has been great to see people returning, and seeing each other again. They have all missed each other. “Watching grown men seeing each other for the first time in here for a couple of years, since before lockdown, and hugging each other, brings a tear to my eye. “Our customers love it. […]

A delicious new steak house is now open in Southport town centre! The Feather Blade Charcoal Steak House has opened at 118 Lord Street, on the first floor directly above Plaza Cards. Diners can enjoy premium 35 day aged British steaks cooked directly in the restaurant’s stunning charcoal chamber. Chefs keep the chamber at 400°C, smoking and firing the steaks to perfection The bright windows at the front of the restaurant offer diners beautiful views across the centre of Lord Street, looking out towards The Monument, the Monument Gardens and the junction of Lord Street with Neville Street. On the menu are great tasting steaks of all shapes and sizes, from rump, to sirloin, to ribeye,  to fillet, to the huge tomahawk steaks. Guests can also enjoy a range of other tasty meals, including tapas, and dishes such as Slow Braised Lamb Shank; Caribbean Jerk Chicken; Classic Fish and Chips; and Steak and Ale Pie. There is a reasonably priced lunch menu, along with sandwiches, burgers, a kids menu, and desserts. There is a delicious Sunday Menu with Beef Topside, Pork Loin, Boned Chicken Supreme, Lamb Shoulder, Mix (all 4) or Nut Roast. Their signature dish is Braised Featherblade of […]

Independents’ Day is a national campaign, that brings Indie businesses into focus on the weekend of July 2nd – 3rd. To mark the occasion, Southport Bijou Cinema are showing two special films, and offering their space up to other Independent business in Southport. The Bijou will be screening – Independence Day – Saturday 2nd 2.30PM Love, Sarah – Sunday 3rd 2.30PM Tickets are available here Southport Bijou Cinema Manager Andy Harrison said: “The Bijou is celebrating Independent’s Day by offering a weekend to sing the praise of Southport’s local champions! Screening Independence Day on the Saturday, and a film called Love, Sarah on the Sunday, the Bijou is inviting any local independent businesses to advertise in our space or sell themselves.” “Love, Sarah tells the story of a woman who opens her own independently run bakery, which was a dream of her late mother’s. It’s a really uplifting story of independent spirit, perseverance, and pushing forward, and so on the Sunday from 1PM we extend an invitation before the screening for businesses to use our space to set up little stalls selling wares, cakes, or just advertising who they are!” If any business are interested, please email Andy at bijou.manager@outlook.com

An iconic Victorian Southport town centre tea room has been saved by a Mum and daughter who fell in love with it as soon as they saw it. The Nostalgia Tea Room, on Lord Street, is now thriving under its third owners, as Margaret and Rebecca Richardson enjoy welcoming the venue’s many regular customers. Diners have much to look forward to – Rebecca, Margaret’s daughter, is an acclaimed chef, having worked as the Head Chef at The Midland Hotel in Manchester, and having worked with celebrity chef Gary Rhodes at Rhodes & Co at Trafford Park and then in London. Nostalgia Tea Room is famous for its beautiful, first floor views with light-filled windows, allowing diners to sit and enjoy lovely views across the leafy Lord Street boulevard; for its waiting on staff wearing Victorian aprons and outfits; for its famous cream teas and scones; and for its delicious home-made breakfasts, meals and its home-made cakes that you can’t say no to. Rebecca and Margaret have been determined to keep all that is great about the business, while bringing about some small improvements of their own too – there is now much more choice available on the eatery’s new gluten […]

A family-run Southport business is looking forward to celebrating its first birthday, after launching a range of vegan milkshakes to add to its already popular vegan smoothies. The Shake Factory opened on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre in June last year and has been growing its reputation through word of mouth. Owner Philip Whitfield and Scarlet Whitfield said they launched their range of vegan drinks after a growing number of requests from customers, wanting to provide something much needed – while still keeping prices reasonable. Philip and Scarlet opened their first The Shake Factory in Prescot in Knowsley four years ago, and then targeted Southport for their second venture last summer, wanting to make it a destination venue for customers who live in or visit the popular seaside resort. Southport enjoyed 9.1million visitors in 2019, the last year before the Covid pandemic. Philip and Scarlet said: “We have launched a range of vegan shakes to add to our vegan smoothies. “The shakes are available on our delivery menu as well as in store. “We believe that we are the only high quality dessert specialists offering vegan shake options, so thought we should get that out there to let people […]

Queenscourt’s shop in Southport Town Centre officially opened its doors in the prime location of 28 Chapel Street on 1st December, 2018, having previously been based on Bold Street in Southport. The busy high street location sees it rubbing shoulders with neighbours such as M&S, Boots, WH Smith and TK Maxx. The shop sells pre-loved clothing for men, ladies and children; bric-a-brac; household items; pictures; records, CDs; DVDs; games; books and more. Run by Manager Dave Lavery, Assistant Manager Sue Caunce and a team of dedicated volunteers, the shop raises vital funds for #teamqueenscourt, so that they can continue to provide exceptional palliative care for local people across West Lancashire, Southport and Formby. Queenscourt’s eBay shop is also based within the bustling Chapel Street premises, remaining open throughout the pandemic, it continues to thrive. Dave Lavery came into post in March 2020 and has a rich history of working in the nearby area, holding several positions, including Manager, at HMV on Chapel Street, where he worked for 14 years, and at MVC on Eastbank Street, where The Entertainer is situated now. Working for Queenscourt Hospice Retail is a job which Dave really enjoys. He said: “Working here is totally different […]

A brand new ladies clothes shop has opened in Southport town centre. LPL Boutique welcomed its first customers on Saturday at Unit 15 in Cambridge Walks, after enjoying success through selling clothes online on Instagram and Facebook. LPL stands for Lucy, Phoebe and Lizzie, in honour of Mum, Lizzie McMullen, and her two daughters Phoebe, aged 8, and Lucy, aged 20. Lizzie and her partner Karl Evason were running The Fleetwood pub in Banks until recently – when the brewery gave them notice to leave, telling them they had sold the property to be converted from a pub into a Co-Op supermarket. Lucy had been enjoying growing success through selling ladies fashions online so the family decided to open their first high street shop here in Southport town centre. Lizzie thought their new shop looked perfect the second they saw it, and says that they love the ‘family atmosphere’ inside the bustling Cambridge Arcade and Cambridge Walks. She said: “We opened on Saturday and have had a great response from shoppers. “We are going to be open on Easter weekend and on Easter Monday – the weather is looking good and we think Southport is going to be busy this […]

David Davies Sales and Lettings agent has been honoured at The Guild of Property Professionals Annual Conference and Awards ceremony. The firm, which opened its new office on Market Street in Southport town centre on 1st March 2022, won the Gold Lettings and Silver Sales award for the North West. The event was held at the QEII Centre in Westminster, central London. Paula Davies Director of David Davies Sales and Lettings Agent said: “We are thrilled to be recognised for our hard work and dedication over the past year. “This award is a culmination of our efforts throughout the last 12 months and a symbol of our commitment to excellence within the property industry. “To say that I am thrilled is an understatement. Both our Sales and Lettings teams work incredibly hard and for their commitment to be recognised on a national level is outstanding.” Iain McKenzie, CEO of The Guild of Property Professionals, said: “Throughout the day, we had an amazing line-up of industry professionals, speaking about a wide variety of topics such as the digitalisation of the sector and using digital marketing to elevate your business, winning instructions the green way and the trends and innovations we are […]

The owners of a new independent shop in Southport say they have been ‘overwhelmed’ by the support from local people after reaching a ‘mini anniversary’. Stephen Barr and Katy Khamisa who opened Urban Attic on Market Street in Southport in September 2021 and today thanked the people of the town for helping them enjoy a triumphant first six months. The shop opened opposite the side entrance of Southport Market, which reopened in July last year as an exciting new food, drink and events venue. The Sefton Council-led transformation was made possible through £900,000 in Southport Town Deal funding from the Government plus £600,000 from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The reopening of the Market has attracted greater footfall into the ‘Market Quarter’ area as well as enticing new local, independent businesses to move into the area. Recent arrivals include Urban Attic, as well as: Season Coffee, Bar & Kitchen; The Cake Box; Eva’s Sewing Room; and David Davies Sales and Lettings Agent. New owners are preparing to redevelop the former Coronation pub on King Street, while German Doner Kebab is due to lead the £500,000 conversion of the former McDonald’s building on the corner of King Street and Market […]

An independent Southport business will celebrate its one year anniversary with the help of a star from The Voice UK. Semi-finalist in the ITV show Jake O’Neill, whose mum has recently joined the team at FenneeKay Hair, Tanning & Beauty on Lord Street, will belt out the tunes as part of their Open Day celebrations on Saturday, 26th March. FenneeKay Hair, Tanning & Beauty – whose motto is ‘Love Your Hair Again’ – opened on 8th April 2021, is owned by local couple Chris Hesketh and Sarah Fenney. The business is situated at 17 Lord Street, in the ‘Southern Quarter’, near to the Ribble Buildings, in the parade of shops between Kalash Divine Indian and Cleveland Cafe. Chris and Sarah said: “On Saturday, 26th March we are celebrating our first year anniversary! “We are having an open day, everyone is welcome to come along. “Singing for everyone will be Jake O’Neill from The Voice UK. He is coming to celebrate too as his mum, Julie Walmsley, has now joined our team as a beautician and aesthetic nurse. “On the day we will have drinks and snacks for clients. “Julie will be there to meet and greet and tell people what […]

As we celebrate International Women’s Day – Southport businesswoman Susannah Porter reveals plans for a fourth incarnation of her hugely popular licenced Remedy coffee shops. But she insists her thriving businesses may have remained the stuff of dreams if she hadn’t taken the drastic decision to make a career change at 45 – a genuine wake up and smell the coffee moment. Susannah, who is also chair of the Southport BID Board, had spent more than 20 years in marketing and then education said: “I can remember starting at colleges aged 26/27 and there was always one person in meetings being really negative and cynical all the time. I was sat in a meeting and realised that I was now that person.” And the rest is history Susannah made the leap and fast forward to 2022 she owns three Remedy cafes – the first opening in Lord Street in 2015, followed by a second in on Botanic Road in Churchtown Village in December 2017 and latte but not least a third within Beales department store which opened last year. The cafes are defined by their distinct coffee – Susannah has her own blend –fresh sandwiches and gorgeous cakes and the […]

In today’s 20 Questions we give aptly named Megafauna owner Ben Chew a gentle grilling to shine the spotlight on the hugely popular vegan cafe and takeaway inside Cambridge Walks. 1) Name? Ben Chew 2) Job Title? Owner and head chef at Megafauna 3) What type of business is it? Megafauna is a vegan cafe and takeaway 4) When did the business open? 2018 5) Three words that describe your leadership style: Supportive, patient and collaborative 6) Favourite part of the job? Showing people how good vegan food can be 7) Challenges you have overcome? Moving the business into bigger premises after three years on Wesley Street and coming out of lockdown 8) Biggest achievements in work? Working in Mexico with top chefs from around the world 9) Biggest achievements away from work? Organising and performing in the first Liverpool Fire Arts Festival with Bring the Fire Project 10) Three things that are crucial to a business’s success? Patience, creativity and commitment 11) What is your priority for 2022? To keep challenging perceptions of what vegan food is 12) How do you unwind? With my cat and a nice cup of tea 13) What songs are on your playlist at the […]

Three is very much the magic number for Southport’s Lavish Home which is celebrating its third birthday since setting up its thriving business in Lord Street. Lavish Home – which sells Furniture, Lighting and Home Accessories – was set up by husband and wife team Donna and Alan Platts who both grew up in Southport and say having their own shop on such an iconic street means so much to them. Other staff members include Beverly Ansell, Kayley Randle and Leanne Wright. To mark their third birthday we have hit them with some questions themed around the number three. Three things you have learned since opening: Hard work and determination does eventually pay off We didn’t realise just how many holiday/day trippers visit Southport and LOVE the town A lot of people still prefer visiting a shop to buying online   Three highlights so far. Having a shop on such an Iconic Street in my home town The lovely feedback that our customers give us when they visit Knowing that our products give happiness to so many   Three challenges you have overcome. Lockdown 1 Lockdown 2 Lockdown 3   Three things you have in store for the shop. New […]

In today’s 20 Questions we spice things up and shine the spotlight on talented local chef and business owner Anthony Greenland. Anthony launched Tik Taco, a Mexican Cantina serving authentic Mexican food, as a takeaway venture during lockdown before opening as a restaurant on Coronation Walk in Southport town centre towards the end of last year. He said: “We started Tik Taco as a pop-up takeaway at the start of last year at a friend’s cafe that was shut due to lockdown. From there we have grown to what we are today. “From the pop-up we moved to our own premises on Coronation Walk where at first we continued the takeaway, to then opening the restaurant back in the middle of November last year. “We offer authentic Mexican cuisine which is slightly adapted to the British palate.” Here are his answers to our 20 Questions   1 – Name? Anthony Greenland 2 – Job Title? Tik Taco owner 3 – What type of business is it? Modern Mexican restaurant  4 – When did the business open? January 2021 5 – Three words that describe your leadership style: Firm, Approachable, Encouraging 6 – Favourite part of the job? Hearing all the feedback from customers  7 – Challenges […]

  Answering our 20 Questions today is Stephen Barr and Katy Khamisa, the owners of the new Urban Attic shop in Southport. Urban Attic opened in September last year on Market Street in Southport, opposite the side entrance of Southport Market. The shop sells beautiful hand-made and unique home decor and gifts. It is among a number of new local independent businesses which have opened in Southport’s ‘Market Quarter’ – since last year’s transformation of Southport Market into a new food, drink and events venue. If you like to take part in 20 Questions, please email info@southportbid     1 – Name? Stephen Barr & Katy Khamisa 2 – Job Title? Co-owners of Urban Attic 3 – What type of business is it? Handmade and unique home decor and gift shop 4 – When did the business open? September 2021 5 – Three words that describe your leadership style: Ste: Collaboration. Passion. Forward-thinking  Katy: Creative, Optimistic and collaborative 6 – Favourite part of the job? Ste: I think my favourite part is providing a platform for local talent to sell their wares, including our own makes Katy: Creating relationships with customers that allow us to grow the business to meet their needs and wants 7 […]

Answering our 20 Questions today is Michelle Caswell, who opened the stunning Season Coffee, Bar & Kitchen on King Street in Southport town centre last year. The venue, directly opposite Southport Market, sells craft beers and delicious food for all seasons. The family-run, independent business is another exciting addition to Southport’s Market Quarter. Lots of work has gone into it since taking over the former Coral Bookmakers which stood empty for nearly six years. Floral decorations adorn the building to reflect the great British seasons and provide a stylish, laid-back atmosphere for customers. Season Coffee, Bar & Kitchen is at 14-16 King Street, Southport. Follow the Season Coffee, Bar & Kitchen page on Facebook here; or on Instagram here.   1 – Name? Michelle. (After The Beatles song) 2 – Job Title? Manager / Boss Lady  3 – What type of business is it? Coffee shop, tasty bites, homemade cakes, craft beers, wines and spirits  4 – When did the business open? September 2021 5 – Three words that describe your leadership style: Firm, fair and a little bit bossy (only sometimes, promise) 6 – Favourite part of the job? Meeting new customers and coming up with fun ideas 7 – Challenges you have overcome? Complete change and […]

Southport is smelling more success with a brand new shop opening in Southport town centre in time for the Christmas shopping season. Wolfe & Bear, the newest independent business in Southport, has opened on Wesley Street. The family run business, which sells premium candles, wax melts and reed diffusers for your home launched its own website at the beginning of 2021, proving to be a big success with customers.  Now owner Faye Sears has chosen Southport to invested in opening her very first bricks and mortar store.  Faye named the brand after the names of her two young boys Wolfe and Bear – who if you visit the shop on Wesley Street often make an appearance! It stocks hand-crafted candles, wax melts and home fragrances, along with products from other UK-based independent businesses. Faye is looking forward to being part of the Wesley Street community – known as ‘The Village In The Town’ because of its collection of top quality independent shops and cafes.  She said: “I chose Wesley Street because of its unique shopping experience and close-knit community of small independent business owners. “The shop on Wesley Street was the first I viewed and I instantly knew that my […]

Name: Phil Flack Job Title: Director When did the business open? 1972 Three words that describe your leadership style: Determined. Focused Favourite part of the job? Meeting people Challenges you have overcome? Keeping face-to-face customers despite the growth of the internet Biggest achievements in work? Keeping our family business going for 49 years Biggest achievements away from work? Raised over £10,000 for charities by cycling across Cuba, Morocco and Iceland and trekking the Inca Trail in Peru Three things that are crucial to a business’s success? Customer service. Knowledgeable and experienced staff. Adapting to change What is your priority for 2022? For our staff, family and friends to stay healthy and for our business to prosper How do you unwind? Listening to music. Reading. Walking (mountains and coasts) What songs are on your playlist at the moment? Nick Cave. Bob Dylan. Sigur Ros What do you love about Southport? Independent shops, restaurants and micropubs What is your hidden talent? I’ve got a BSc (Hons) in Applied Chemistry What word sums up your philosophy? Positivity What do you love most about Christmas? Spending time with family Favourite Christmas film? The Grinch Sprouts or no sprouts with the Christmas dinner? Sprouts … […]

Two independent Southport town centre businesses have been honoured in the 2021 Northern Enterprise Awards.   The Windmill pub, on Seabank Road, and Mind Games, on Hill Street, were both recognised.    The Northern Enterprise Awards, which is run by SME News, celebrates the industriousness and the dedication of the businesses and enterprises hailing from the north of England.    An SME News spokesperson said: “These awards allow us to celebrate the hardworking individuals and firms based in Northern England who often demonstrate their innovation and excellence in their business practices.   “With many businesses experiencing unexpected adversity, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, now, more than ever feels like the best time to celebrate those who have faced the challenges head on and have sought innovative ways to bring about permanent positive change, making this an incredibly exciting time to be nominated and get noticed.”   The Windmill pub is run by Neil Walsh and partner Tom Hodgin.    They said: “We are delighted to have won the Northern Enterprise award for Most Inclusive Local Pub in the Greater Liverpool Region.   “Since taking over The Windmill three years ago we have worked hard to reach out and engage with […]

Harrison Brown of Southport has launched the all new Bagel Bar situated at 431 Lord Street, opposite Sainsbury’s. This young chef & entrepreneur holds an interesting back story from The Savoy hotel to working with Southport’s own Marcus Wearing. Harrison moved from Southport to London aged 19 where he began his culinary training working at the prestigious 5 star Savoy Hotel. It was here he learnt all the basics and classical French cookery techniques. The Savoy, which appeared as a miniseries on ITV in late 2020, is famous for having lavish, extravagant rooms, world class service & top French fine dining cuisine. The Savoy is steeped in history being built and operated by Caesar Ritz with his chef partner Escoffier. Throughout the years the Savoy has hosted a wide range of celebrities, royalty & distinguished guests within its ball rooms & restaurants. Some of the most notable people include Winston Churchill, Marylyn Monroe & the Queen mother; even having her own side entrance to avoid the crowds. Back in 2012 Harrison began his career, working alongside Head chef, Gerry Rae in ‘Simpsons-in-the-Strand’ one of the Savoy’s three restaurants which originated as a private chess club in 1828. It still to […]

A talented cake maker is celebrating her very own rags to riches story, after opening her first shop in Southport – and being invited to bake a special cake for the Cinderella pantomime! Lauren Wickham, owner of The Cake Box at 22 Market Street, is the latest local independent business owner to move into the growing Market Quarter area of the town centre after the official opening of the new look Southport Market this summer. The Market has been transformed into a new food, drink and events attraction following a £1.4million transformation led by Sefton Council. Since the market opened, the existing businesses in the area have been joined by exciting new local independent ventures moving into previously empty units including: The Cake Box; Season Coffee, Bar and Kitchen; Urban Attic; and Ewa’s Sewing Room. New owners have now taken over The Coronation pub site on King Street while German Doner Kebab is investing £500,000 into converting the former McDonald’s site on the corner of King Street and Eastbank Street. The area is booming. Lauren, aged 27, said: “It has been a very successful first few days! It couldn’t have gone any better! “We had lots of local people at […]

Top comedians from around the world will bring the laughter back when the 2021 Southport Comedy Festival starts this Friday (1st October)! The 10th anniversary event twice had to be postponed last year due to the Covid pandemic. Now the Festival is back with what organisers claim is “the strongest line up yet”, with acclaimed international stars including Reginald D Hunter (USA), Rich Hall (USA), Tom Stade (Canada) and Ed Byrne (Ireland), joining recognised home-grown talents including: Russell Kane, Jo Caulfield, Ed Byrne, Mark Thomas, Paul Sinha, Tez Ilyas, Luisa Omielan, Hal Cruttenden, Geoff Norcott, Steve Royle, Helen Bauer, Troy Hawke, Katie Tracey and David Eagle! Between them they have a string of TV credits to their name, such as Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, The Last Leg and more. This year’s Southport Comedy Festival, which is sponsored by Anthony James Estate Agents and is supported by a number of local businesses, has a real festival feel to it. It sees 16 shows taking place at Victoria Park in Southport, home of Southport Flower Show, over 17 days from this Friday (1st October) until Sunday, 17th October, in a large, luxury, heated marquee, courtesy of Elite Marquees. Guests […]

  Young people aged between 19 to 24 years old are being given a superb opportunity to enjoy a FREE 8 week training course to set them on the path to a new career. The training is being offered by Ashley Jade Training Academy, which has two premises on Hill Street in Southport town centre. The Academy is an approved VTCT, Open awards and CPD accredited Centre of Excellence. Students can enjoy a number of courses, including hairdressing, hair extensions, beauty, barbering, and nails. The firm’s Training Academy is based at 1A Hill Street, which features a real live Hairdressing salon and iced coffee bar, just off Lord Street. Contour, which includes a classroom on the first floor and a real live beauty salon on the ground floor, is situated nearby at 16 Hill Street, next to Sainsbury’s supermarket car park. Students can also learn vital skills such as retail and enterprise, with tutors giving them practical advice on how to set up their own business with tips such as setting up a business bank account or how to build up a successful social media profile. Students who successfully complete the course will receive an £100 incentive payment. People are […]

Fletchers Solicitors in Southport has put in some serious mileage for its latest charity pledge, raising almost £3,000 for three worthwhile causes with an ‘Office-to-Office Challenge.’   Staff at the legal firm were encouraged to set personal exercise goals for July, using the 37.4-mile distance between Fletchers’ Dukes House Headquarters on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre and their St James’ Tower office in Manchester as inspiration.   Some chose to walk, run or cycle the 37.4 miles, while others chose to double their efforts – completing the challenge over 74.8 miles. Some made a pledge to complete 12 hours 20 minutes of exercise during the month – the time it would take to walk between the two offices.   Over the course of July, the team travelled over 1,800 miles, and completed over 550 hours of exercise – the equivalent of travelling between the two offices 93 times!   This latest event follows the success of their ‘30 for 30 Challenge’ at the start of the year, in which Fletchers’ employees completed 30 minutes of exercise each day for 30 days in return for sponsorship.   The funds raised from the events were donated to the firm’s Charity of […]

The newest business to open in the trendy Northern Quarter of Southport has thanked customers for their support.  House of Ivy, Southport’s latest café bar, officially opened its doors this Thursday (19th August) at 663 Lord Street next door to Lords Café.  It joins other businesses including The Lord Street Hotel, The Bold Hotel, Peaky Blinders, Skies, Great Himalayas, Corridor and others to create a top quality food and drink offer at the northern end of Lord Street.  House of Ivy owners Paul and Chantelle Drewery are now looking forward to a busy bank holiday weekend.  They said: “We just want to say a massive thank you to all our customers who came to visit us over our opening weekend. “We are back open again this Thursday – Monday inclusive… that’s right we are staying open one extra day next week for the bank holiday! “Make sure to book a table for food in advance to secure your place.” The House of Ivy food menu has a great selection of pizzas, salads, sandwiches, fries and sides with its speciality being a sharing charcuterie board and a chocolate calzone dessert. Customers can also order from a full vegan and gluten free […]

A unique vegan café is celebrating moving into its new home in Southport town centre. Megafauna has built up a fast-growing following since opening on Wesley Street three years ago. Their popularity has now seen them moving to much-needed bigger premises, in the former Le Boulevard restaurant in Cambridge Arcade. Megafauna owner Ben Chew said: “We have been on Wesley Street for the past three years, but have now gone and expanded. “It has been a full-on three weeks getting everything ready. But I am still here, and still standing! “We have had a lot of regular customers coming in to see us on our first day, but we have seen lots of new faces too, which has been nice to see.” Ben moved into his first venue on Wesley Street three years ago, choosing a small unit to start with as he tried to assess whether there was enough demand for making his dream become a reality. The response has been overwhelming. Ben said: “We realised as early as six months in that we were going to need bigger premises. “I under-estimated the size of the vegan community in Southport. “The vegan community is growing every month, getting bigger […]

Free goodie bags will be given away as The Fragrance Shop, the UK’s largest independent fragrance retailer, officially opens its 200th branded store in Southport this weekend.  The venture opened its doors at 40 Chapel Street, next door to Marks & Spencer, last weekend, but enjoys its official launch this Saturday (31st July).  The past 18 months have been tough for the Great British high street, with many retailers forced to close for months on end as the Coronavirus pandemic hit the UK. However, this hasn’t stopped The Fragrance Shop, which has seen exponential online and instore growth during this period, with business booming. The launch of its brand new Southport store has seen the company reach the impressive milestone of 200 The Fragrance Shop branded stores across the UK, bringing its overall portfolio to 203 stores. The new Southport store will create five new jobs in the town and will be marked with a launch event this Saturday (31st July), where The Fragrance Shop will give away free goodie bags to the first 15 customers through the door. Customers will also be gifted with exclusive discounts on the day, which includes 10% off your order, or £5 off a […]

Have you wondered why For Sale signs with photos of estate agents on them have been popping up all over Southport? It’s a guarantee that people looking to sell their homes can now enjoy the help of their own personal estate agent every step of the way. The  initiative has been launched by Anthony James Estate Agents, which is based in Southport and sells homes across our region. It sees the person who values someone’s home stay with them all the way through to the completion of their house sale, providing expert help and guidance along the way. The personal service is in stark contrast to the recent rise of online only estate agents where vendors don’t enjoy the same level of support. Anthony James Estate Agents Director Mark Cunningham said: “We have launched our Associate Partner model and it has been such a huge success, we are keen to expand it. “With us, an estate agent offers a personal service every step of the way from ‘cradle to the grave’ – the moment they step into your home to carry out a valuation, to setting the right sale price, to showing potential buyers around, providing expert support to guiding […]

The Windmill pub on Seabank Road in Southport town centre is hosting its first poetry and spoken word open night on Sunday, 8th August at 8pm. The free to enter event will be held on the second Sunday of every month and is the brainchild of local wordsmith Rebecca Kenny.  Having posted a question in the Stand up for Southport Facebook group asking if there was a poetry and spoken word event locally, comments from like minded locals soon flooded the comments.   The Windmill quickly saw this exciting and different night and helped Rebecca lay the groundwork to bring the event to life!  Landlord Neil Walsh said: “I saw Rebecca’s post and quickly knew it would be something great to have at our venue and something different for the area, we can’t wait to start!  “Speak Up! Is open to all who enjoy spoken word, poetry and short stories etc, it’s free to get up and have a go!” Speak Up! Is every second Sunday of the month from 8pm at The Windmill Pub, Seabank Road, Southport PR9 0EL. Find out more details about Southport BID at southportbid.com and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Linked In on @southportBID For […]

A new bar with a 12ft wall mounted electric guitar on the wall is enjoying bringing great live music nights to Southport.  Royales is situated at 13 Lord Street, next door to Boulevard West.  After months in lockdown and then more months of severe Covid restrictions in place as bars eventually reopened, people have missed seeing singers and bands on nights out. Royales has been busy making up for that, with acclaimed local acts appearing including: Jenny Wren, Kelly Bond, Dickie McStein, Paper Heart, Astrid, Chris Hesketh, David Walker, Mike Rimmer, Jamie Wooding, Babs from Fag Ash Lil and others.  The live music venue is owned by RK bars Ltd and employs six people. Royales opened following the refurbishment of what used to be a swimming pool shop. The bar features an impressive 12 foot wall mounted electric guitar, ceiling lights and modern yet comfortable seating. There is a parasol pavement terrace outside.  The owners have ensured that original and decorative features such as the tiled floor highlights have remained and have been restored.  They said: “‘We envisaged an exciting new venue in this part of town that would cater for local people in the area, tourists and musicians. “Our […]

A bar owner in Southport town centre has reacted to ‘Freedom Day’ by closing his premises on Tuesday – to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all his hard-working staff.  Carl White wants to reward his employees at The Carlton on Lord Street, which opened during the Covid pandemic in July last year.  He aims to thank staff at his other two bars, The Avenue and The Chop House on Scarisbrick Avenue in Southport town centre, next week.  Carl said: “Since we have opened The Carlton we have been under full restrictions, including all the staff. “So, we have decided to close the venue on Tuesday so that all the staff can go out and have a drink and relax. “Believe it not, most of the staff have put in over 50,000 steps per shift to keep all our customers fed and watered. “They have worked like machines. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for all your support!”  One of The Carlton’s great successes has been the recent unveiling of its brand new food menu.  Customers have been tucking into dishes such as: Beer Battered Fish Finger Barm; Smashed Patties Burger; Hoisin Duck Fries; Sharing Platter; […]

Whisky lovers are in for a treat when Southport Whisky Festival takes place this July! The event takes place on Friday, 30th July and Saturday, 31st July. Southport Whisky Festival will be held at various venues in Southport town centre, with some additional events also taking place online. Southport Whisky Club member Peter Hunt said: “Did you know we are hosting a Whisky Festival right here in town? We’ve got 14 distilleries coming to host tastings in our local pubs and bars on Saturday 31st July from 1pm for a Whisky Treasure Trail! “It promises to be a fantastic event and will bring some much needed income to our town after the last year or so of doom and gloom! “Myself and Glenfarclas owner George Grant will be at The Guest House from 1pm on the day to give you all your Treasure Maps and a dram of Glenfarclas to send you on your way! “At such time as you arrive at Remedy on Lord Street, further complimentary samples from the Distillery based there will await you. “At each of the other venues indicated, you will be required to present your map and pay the bartender £4 to access the […]

An award-winning Southport takeaway is giving time off to its staff so they can enjoy watching England face Italy in the Euro 2020 final on Sunday!  Just Wings UK, situated on Cable Street in Southport town centre, was recently honoured as a Finalist in this year’s North West category of the British Takeaway Awards. The firm also has outlets in St Helens, Crosby and Aigburth in Liverpool.  Bosses Gareth Johnson and Neil Townley are now thanking staff at all four sites for their hard work throughout the past few months since the Covid-19 pandemic began by closing early on Sunday so they can watch the final. Any staff members who want to enjoy watching the final can also take the day off on Monday to recover, hopefully from all the celebrations!  Gareth Johnson said: “Our staff have really grafted for us over the last 18 months and have not really taken much time off. We have remained open throughout the pandemic.  “This was our chance to give something back to them.  “We have a huge amount of loyal customers so I don’t want Southport to be completely deprived of our famous chicken on Sunday! We will be open until 6pm, […]

A new bistro with beautiful views across the Marine Lake will be created to sit over the top of the historic Pleasureland Miniature Railway.  The new venture will sit alongside the spectacular 35 metre illuminated observation wheel being planned to stand proudly next to Southport’s Marine Lake. The new attractions aim to create further reasons for visitors to come to our seaside resort. The historic Lakeside Miniature Railway, which runs alongside the Marine Lake on the seafront at Southport, was opened in 1911 and is one of the oldest continually running miniature railways in the world.  The scheme will also involve the demolition of one of Southport biggest eyesores, the former public toilets at Princes Park.  A report prepared for Supreme Attractions Ltd by RAL Chartered Architects said: “The project is to install a large wheel attraction with small bistro / café on a temporary (3 years) permission, to be located at the eastern edge of Princes Park, Southport on the site of a redundant and derelict public convenience. “The wheel is to be located on the site of a redundant public convenience. The building is derelict and a blight to both the lakeside environment, and to the historic Princes […]

A new shop stocking “over 4,000 products at £1” is opening in Southport town centre this week.  One Below will open at 40-44 Chapel Street this Friday, 9th July, at 10am on the site of the former Poundworld store.  It is a positive time for Chapel Street, with The Fragrance Shop due to open next door; Prestige Stay converting the former BHS building into aparthotels, shops and a bar; and Tesco due to open a new store at the entrance to Southport Railway Station.  One Below launched back in March 2019 and quickly became a go-to for many shoppers looking for a bargain. The £1-or-less discount store saw hundreds of shoppers queue on its opening days in St Helens, Bootle and Kirkby. It also has a branch in St Johns Shopping Centre in Liverpool. Now the bargain store, which was created by the original founders of Poundworld before it was sold to an American company, is opening its newest store on Chapel Street, Southport. Sharing the news on Instagram, One Below wrote: “We’ve got that Friday Feeling! Just one week to go until another NEW STORE OPENING. “Friday 9th July at 10am at 40-44 Chapel Street, Southport. Over 4,000 products […]

A stylish new hotel and bar has opened in Southport, thanks to two years of determination by a local family.  Anelli Hotel & Amici Bar has opened at 1-3 Avondale Road in Southport town centre, perfectly positioned between the resort’s historic Lord Street and the Promenade.  The nine-bedroom facility is owned by Roberto Anelli, who is very well-known in Southport for his time working at Casa Italia on Lord Street before going on to run the popular Mario & Roberto’s Spaghetti House restaurant on the site of the current hotel back in the 1990s and 2000s.  Roberto then decided to take the plunge, carrying out a dramatic transformation of the building to create the stunning new Anelli Hotel & Amici Bar.  The new venture is finally open and being run by the Anelli family; Roberto, wife Karen, and children Adriana and Fabrizio. It follows frustrating delays caused by the Covid pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns.  The venue is already proving to be popular with hotel guests with visitors enjoying watching Euro 2020 games in the bar with pints of Peroni, cocktails and a public favourite Beaver Town Gamma Ray on the large sun terrace outside.  They are looking forward to […]

Southport Auto Centre is staging a classic car and motorcycle display to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Southport Cancer Information and Support Centre. The charity fundraiser will be held on Saturday, 31st July, from 10am – 4pm, at their centre on Wright Street, behind Southport College, which will be closed off to traffic. Among the automobiles on show will be a three-wheeled Messerschmitt bubble car and the recently restored Schofields lemonade truck. There will also be a Smokey and the Bandit car (Pontiac Firebird Trans Am) and an E-Type Jaguar. Also on display at several nearby car parks will be Harley Davidson’s, stationary engines and other forms of transport, while Warrington Scooter Club are expected to attend on the day and show off their Vespas and Lambrettas. Chris Regan, and all the staff at Southport Auto Centre who are organising the charity day, said: “Lots of charities have been impacted by a drop in donations due to the pandemic, and a lot of our customers have been supported by Macmillan and the Southport Centre and also volunteer for them, so we wanted to try and raise as much money as possible for the charity. “This will be […]

All ten food independent food traders for the new look Southport Market have now been revealed, along with the operator of the facility’s new bar.  The news is an exciting boost to Southport ahead of Independents Day UK 2021, which takes place this weekend (Saturday, 3rd July and Sunday, 4th July).  Independents’ Day UK is a campaign that exists to support and promote independent retail businesses across the UK all year round, but with an annual focus on and around 4th July Independents Day itself. Independents account for around 65% of the approximately 290,000 retail outlets in the UK and are at the heart of local communities throughout the country. The full list of confirmed Southport Market traders is as follows: Blackhurst Butchers 600 degrees (Pizzas, Italian) Hector’s Mexicana (Mexican street food) Pacific By Vincent (Pacific Rim inspired foods) Down and Oot (Canadian steaks, poutine, hot sandwiches) King St. Bakery (Portuguese tarts) Messy Moments (Desserts) Birkdale Pie & Mash (Assorted pies) Allotment – (American Burgers et al) Pitamu (Greek & Mediterranean) The bar will be run by Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group, which already runs The Bold Hotel, Lord Street Hotel and Punch Tarmey’s in Southport.  The brand new Southport […]

The second Southport Makers Market is due to take place this weekend, in a superb celebration of the 2021 Independents Day.  Over 65 local independent traders will be lining King Street in Southport town centre, right next to Southport Market, between 11am and 4pm on Sunday, 4th July.  The first Southport Makers Market took place on Sunday 6th June and was a huge success with visitors enjoying the huge array of choice on offer.  Southport Makers Market Matilda Bruchard said: “Wowweee Southport after a brilliant launch event earlier this month we can’t wait to do it all again this Sunday!  “Save the date – Sunday 4th July.  “Stock up on all your Makers Market must haves in Southport this Sunday!  “We have an eclectic mix of the North’s finest makers, bakers and creators lined up and ready to showcase their wares in Southport! “Here’s a sneak peek of what’s to come:  “Handmade soap, shaving foams and more from Signature Soaps  “Jam packed doughnuts from Planet Doughnut “Cheese Truckles from Kickass Cheese “Dog accessories from Goody Paws “Knock your socks off chilli sauce from Daddy Cools “Home furnishings from Sassy Magpie “Handmade wax melts from Moose Melts  “Small Batch Gin from […]

Anthony James Estate Agents in Southport is delighted to be the main sponsor for the  Southport Comedy Festival 2021.  The firm, based on Hoghton Street in Southport, will also provide a free event at the Festival specifically for NHS and care staff in the town, to say thank you for everything they have done during the Covid pandemic. Details will be announced soon.  Some of the biggest names in comedy have already been announced for this year’s spectacle, which will be held in a giant marquee at Victoria Park in Southport between 1st October and 17th October.  The stellar line-up includes: Jason Byrne, Reginald D Hunter, Jo Caulfield, Tom Stade, Ed Byrne, Mark Thomas, Tez Ilyas, Luisa Omielan, Hal Cruttenden, Geoff Norcott and Helen Bauer with more star names due to join them. Tickets are now on sale.  Anthony James Estate Agents has been a big supporter of Southport Comedy Festival over the past 10 years and is pleased to be able to continue to back an event that attracts hundreds of visitors into Southport each year.  Anthony James Estate Agents  Director Mark Cunningham said: “We are delighted to throw some money in the kitty and once again support this […]

Sandgrounder Radio are delighted to be working with the long established David Hayton Group, based on Tulketh Street in Southport to launch their brand new promotional vehicle. Sandgrounder Radio’s Content Director, Andy Hilbert said: “We’re over the moon to be working with David Hayton on Tulketh Street in Southport. “2021 marks our fifth year on-air and we’re so pleased to be working in partnership with the team. They’ve supplied us with an amazing vehicle and we can’t wait to get out and about in it”.  Sandgrounder Radio’s new promotional vehicle is a Peugeot 2008 in Vertigo Blue and it’ll be out, right across the area as well as appearing alongside the ‘Sandgrounder Shuttle’ as part of their Summer Tour too. Chris Ismay, David Hayton’s Group General Manager said: “When the opportunity to work with Sandgrounder Radio came along it was too good to miss. We were looking for a new platform to showcase our newly refurbished Southport Mazda showroom and the timing couldn’t be better. We are delighted to be able to support this local business and look forward to working with Sandgrounder Radio in the future.’ You can see more information by going to www.sandgrounderradio.co.uk   Find out more […]

This Friday (11th June 2021) Sandgrounder Radio is celebrating its fifth birthday!  The station, which broadcasts from Wayfarers Arcade on Lord Street in Southport, launched five years ago on Saturday 11th June 2016. Sandgrounder Radio broadcasts on DAB+ Digital Radio across The Liverpool City Region and Fylde Coast area as well as broadcasting online too. Sandgrounder Radio Content Director Andy Hilbert said: “We have had some amazing support from local people and businesses over the past five years, without them we really couldn’t do what we do. “We’ve done so many things over the past five years. We’ve broadcast from the top of the Liver Building, we’ve helped host and support so many events in the local area, including the annual Star Trekk walk for Southport’s Queenscourt Hospice. “Last year, Ofcom granted us permission to include the Fylde Coast as part of our editorial area too, thus enabling us to provide our local, commercial radio offering right along the North West Coast.” The radio station also officially partnered with local company Peoples Bus to launch the ‘Sandgrounder Shuttle’ which you’ll see out and about across the local area. Andy said: “We have lots planned over the coming months to celebrate […]

A quality Southport butcher is inviting people to take advantage of its growingly popular Click and Collect service to save themselves time and money. Family-run Blackhurst Butchers has been at Southport Market for nearly half a century, serving generations of customers. They pride themselves on the best local, British produce. The firm has recently taken prime spot in the new-look market as Sefton Council continues with the £1.4million transformation of the building into an exciting new food, drink and events hub. Blackhurst Butchers is enjoying being situated right at the front of the building, on King Street, with parking spaces directly outside. It has remained open throughout the building work, with the new-look Southport Market due to open fully within the next few weeks. The Blackhurst Butchers Click and Collect service has become increasingly popular, particularly among BBQ lovers. Owner Tony Blackhurst said: “Since the lockdown restrictions eased and more businesses reopened there are quite a lot of people out in town now, which is great to see. “We have always been busy, but this has definitely brought a lot more footfall to the street. “Now that Southport is becoming busier our Click and Collect service means that it is […]

One of the most stylish bars in Southport is reopening its doors this weekend.  Spender’s Bar, at 19-21 Scarisbrick Avenue, is looking forward to welcoming back customers this Friday.  Owner Paul Drewery has endured a tough few months with his popular bar among hospitality venues which have had to close over the past few months due to government Covid lockdown restrictions.  Now he’s looking forward to seeing everyone back for a busy Bank Holiday Weekend.  He said: “It’s been a long, tough few months, but the time has finally arrived! “Our doors will once again be open this Friday from 5pm!  “Please send us a message for table bookings as obviously there are still limited social distancing numbers allowed for the time being. “We are all eager and excited to get going again.  “We can’t wait to get back to keeping the people of Southport entertained and watered!”  For more details, please message the Spender’s Bar Facebook page here or visit their website here.   During lockdown, Paul Drewery and his Flair ‘n’ Funk venture have earned rave reviews for their cocktail deliveries.  The good news is that those are going to continue.  He said: “The cocktail deliveries are still continuing, […]

A grill restaurant in Southport town centre is back – with new and improved dishes on its menu.  Grill Hunters initially opened on Lord Street on 28th August last year, famous for its charcoal grilled food and a fascinating mix of Romanian, international and British food. Customers can also enjoy a takeaway option from the counter offering hot and cold European foods.  The owners completely reformed the old Pound Bakery premises at 199-201 Lord Street, opposite The Carlton, last year thanks to substantial investment. Customers can now enjoy even more delicious dishes after they were perfected during the last few months of Covid lockdown.  Grill Hunters owner Emily Serban said: “We have worked with John Connolly, the development chef. He helped us to improve our menu and the style of food. “What we did was to combine the best of Romanian cuisine with the very best British cuisine.  “We are very proud of the outcome! “The feedback from our customers has been very positive. It gives us a lot of hope and joy. “We are so excited to open our doors today (Wednesday, 19th May) so our customers can relax inside the restaurant with no worries about the weather, as […]

Southport’s independent cinema is looking forward to finally ending lockdown and reopening this month – with an iconic movie about a man trying to break out of a prison!  Bijou Cinema, on Post Office Avenue in Southport town centre, will celebrate being able to welcome back customers with a special screening of The Shawshank Redemption.  The movie, starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, earned seven Academy Award nominations.  Southport Bijou Cinema Manager Andy Harrison said: “The Southport Bijou Cinema is back! “Lockdown has been difficult for us all, so we’re super happy to announce we are breaking free of the shackles of lockdown on Monday 17th May with classic The Shawshank Redemption.  “This beautiful and touching story of the friendship between two prisoners – Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins – is frequently cited as one of the greatest films ever made. “Social distancing guidelines will remain in place until June 21st, so make sure you book tickets online or on site after the 17th May to avoid the disappointment of reduced capacity seating! “We’ve missed everyone so much and can’t wait to see our audience and celebrate cinema in the community together again.” Other movies to be screened in May […]

The new boss of Rueters Bar & Grill in Southport is aiming for the sweet smell of success when it opens.  Professional chef Matthew Howard is celebrating taking over the reins at the popular restaurant, bar and function venue on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre as lockdown restrictions begin to ease.  He is already busy making changes to the venue, ahead of it opening fully this May.  He has been running The Shrimper pub in Marshside, as well as helping to operate My Sweet Retreat, a family-run business which creates delicious cakes for all occasions. He has been running the My Sweet Retreat business with his Mum Linda Howard and plans to bring the best of what they create there into Rueters.  As refurbishment works take place, he is looking forward to installing a brand new dessert fridge to tempt diners. The venue has been repainted, new light fittings have arrived and the bar area has been revamped.  People will soon be able to call in for a coffee and a cake, with a choice of goodies including home-made chocolate brownies and home-made cakes.  Matthew is also revamping the Rueters menu, maintaining popular favourites while also introducing some new […]

Sandgrounder Radio has officially unveiled its brand new ‘Sandgrounder Shuttle’ which has been very kindly provided by locally based Peoples Bus. The double decker bus was officially launched at Ocean Plaza in Southport on Easter Saturday with its first task to assist with the delivery of hundreds of Easter Eggs to Alder Hey Children’s Charity and Southport Baby Bank as part of the radio station’s 2021 Easter Egg Appeal. Sandgrounder Radio Content Director, Andy Hilbert said: “This is a unique and amazing opportunity for us, as a local business and radio station, working in partnership with the fabulous team at Peoples Bus. “The Sandgrounder Shuttle will be used during the week on Southport and Formby school services and at other times it then transforms into an amazing mobile broadcasting hub for the radio station. “Back in the day, it was a relatively normal sight to see your local, commercial radio station with a fully branded bus. “We’re absolutely delighted to have been given the chance to work in partnership with Andrew and the amazing team at Peoples Bus to launch the ‘Sandgrounder Shuttle’. “Over the coming weeks and months, as restrictions are eased, the ‘Sandgrounder Shuttle’ will be out and […]

A martial arts expert from Southport has been inundated with requests after organising self protection classes for females following the Sarah Everard tragedy.  Garry Phillips, who runs Shogun World on Bridge Street on the edge of Southport town centre, will run his classes for girls as young as nine-years-old up to adult level.  Garry, a Dad of five daughters, says that the courses will cover easy achievable moves that most ladies of all ages will feel comfortable developing and demonstrating. He said: “This world is a frightening place for females. I am planning to coach a six week basic course at Shogun World in Southport from May for ladies self protection and security. “Every female should feel safe and confident to react to physical confrontation especially in light of what happened to Sarah Everard and Libby Squire. “Please message me if you are interested.  Keep safe, stay alert.”  The first course will start on: Tuesday, 18th May for younger females aged 9-14 yrs 6pm-6.45pm at Shogun World 7.30pm-8.15pm all other females aged 15yrs+ And then Saturday 22nd May 3.30pm-4.15pm for females aged 15 yrs + This timing will allow those females who work on Saturdays a chance to attend and […]