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 […]

A brand new Denture Clinic and Dental Laboratory has opened in Southport town centre. Dental Arts @ 23 Lord Street has opened at the southern end of the famous shopping boulevard, next door to the Cleveland Cafe and near Morrisons supermarket and The Ribble Buildings.   It is managed by GDC registered Clinical Dental Technicians and aims to assist clients with all their denture needs. Dental Arts @ 23 Lord Street provides services including new aesthetic dentures, in addition to dental repairs and relines. The firm also provides custom-made gum shields for people playing sports including: rugby, hockey, boxing and martial arts. They said: “Are your current dentures loose or causing discomfort? Do you have difficulty eating? With our on-site dental laboratory, all appliances are made with full control and patient input. “Dental Arts can offer dental repairs with a local delivery service if required. “We also offer free consultations. We are the one stop shop for dentures. “Our new clinic on Lord Street is now open, but we do ask people to please book an appointment first before visiting.” Dental Arts @ 23 Lord Street opened in February and has been operating during lockdown, deemed an essential business by the […]

For decades, hardy volunteers at Southport Rugby Football Club have stood in wind, rain, hail and sunshine updating the thousands of tries, conversions and penalty kicks recorded by their players.  Now they will be able to enjoy watching the score unfold thanks to a brand new digital scoreboard, which has been provided through sponsorship with a local legal firm. Fletchers Solicitors, based on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre, was delighted to provide the much-needed new facility for the club on Waterloo Road.  A Southport Rugby Football Club spokesperson said: “Southport RFC is delighted to announce that our new scoreboard has been installed. “The electric board features a remotely-controlled LED display which shows both the match score and the elapsed time. “Thank you to Fletchers Solicitors in Southport for the donation and continued support at Southport Rugby Football Club. “Consequently, this puts our once state of art manual board, that has been in place for numerous years into retirement, alongside the volunteers who stood in all weathers inputting the progressing score. “This can now be done from the comfort of the clubhouse with a pint in hand!” The new equipment was provided and installed by FSL Scoreboards, which provides digital […]

Southport has a long-standing proud history with travel, tourism and hospitality which, of course, brings with it a very high standard of skilled and talented people. The last 12 months has been very difficult for the industry as a whole but specifically within Southport. It is sad to see the closure of fellow hotels, bars and casinos resulting in the loss of many local jobs. Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group would like to bring a ray of hope to some of this incredible local talent, with some exciting expansions and new developments in the pipeline, they hope to create some great job opportunities in the very near future. Kelsie Buck, Operations Manager for the group said: “As a business, we would like to do whatever we can to help our local community and give something back to the town that has supported us so much over the years. “There is some incredible local talent in the hospitality industry in Southport, people who have learnt their skills over many years, be it KPs, Chefs, Bar Tenders, House Keepers, and we have some great opportunities for those that have found themselves out of work due to Covid-19.” Mikhail Hotel & Leisure Group […]

Gyms and personal trainers in Southport and West Lancashire are putting their weight behind a fundraiser to raise money for a mental health charity. The charity CrossFit & Deadlift event takes place on Sunday, 12 September 2021, with other gyms, personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts invited to join in. Throw Down To Help Out aims to raise awareness and funds for the charity MIND and other mental health services. Exercise and fitness is a proven way to help decrease symptoms of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and sadly 2020/21 has seen many health and fitness businesses forced to close their doors to the public. However local resident Ste McCann didn’t want this extremely important outlet for hundreds of people to be forgotten. He also wanted to raise the issue of increasingly raising numbers of people affected by poor mental health. Lisa Little, owner of From The Block Fitness at The Waterfront in Southport, said: “Ste has brought together many local independent gyms and many more local personal trainers, to come together and co host this exciting charity event on 12th September 2021. “This 12 hour fitness and deadlift event will see all of the gyms involved, their […]

Captain Sir Tom Moore is celebrated by the world’s biggest mural of him outside an estate agent’s in Southport.  The inspirational charity fundraiser, who raised nearly £40million for the NHS, sadly died in hospital earlier today at the age of 100 after testing positive for Covid-19. The veteran, who captured the hearts of the nation with his fundraising efforts during the first Coronavirus lockdown, died in Bedford Hospital this morning (Tuesday, February 2).  He was celebrated with a huge three-storey mural painted by artist Robert Newbiggin on the side of the Anthony James Estate Agents building on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre.  Robert Newbiggin said: “I feel very humble and lucky to have produced what is now recognised as the largest Sir Tom Moore Portrait in the world, larger than life, as he was up in public view. “I was sad to hear of Sir Tom’s sad passing. “I hope the painting will be a fitting tribute. “I have personally given my condolences to the family through his grandson Benjie.”  The incredible 24ft high artwork, named ‘Hope’, was commissioned by Mark Cunningham, Lyn Cunningham and Jacqui Holt, Directors of Anthony James Estate Agents, and painted by Robert Newbiggin. It […]

People have one last chance to vote for The Atkinson in Southport after it was nominated for two prestigious regional awards.  The deadline for the 2020 Liverpool City Region Culture and Creativity Awards is tomorrow (Tuesday 26 January).  Local residents and businesses are being urged to get your votes in while you can!  After a challenging year for arts and culture, The Atkinson, on Lord Street, is a finalist in The People’s Choice award for Outstanding Contribution to Culture as well as the Impact Award – Covid-19 Creative Response. The Liverpool City Region Culture and Creativity Awards celebrate outstanding contributions and commitment to art, culture and creativity across Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral. Critically acclaimed actress Eithne Browne is set to present the 2020 Liverpool City Region Culture and Creativity awards which, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, are being celebrated online this year. The Huyton-born actress, who has most recently appeared in Coronation Street and Emmerdale but who is most well-known for her role as Chrissy Rogers in Brookside, will host the glittering digital event on February 19th 2021 and will be joined by a number of guest presenters from the city region including the Principal Dancer […]

2020 has felt like one, long ghoulish year already, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t excited by the prospect of Halloween next week. We all need some fun and silliness and despite all that is going on our Southport Indies are going all out to make sure you have just that.   1. Spook the house up in style   Halloween decorations don’t need to be all out plastic ghouls and fake webbing.  Bring some warmth and brightness to your home with some beautiful, hand crafted wreaths and more from Doodles.  With everything hand made locally, it is also the perfect way to support local businesses in these tricky times.   Handmade Halloween decorations at Wesley Streets Doodles craft room   2. No trick or treating?  Sugar them up courtesy of Sweet Jaspers   Cambridge Arcade’s Sweet Jaspers are delivering wicked Halloween sweet boxes.  Packed full of themed treats, the boxes will give the kids their seasonal sugar hit or be the perfect sharing snacks for a horror movie marathon.   They are delivering to Southport, Birkdale, Hillside, Ainsdale and Formby. Halloween Box £10 or £15 Sweet Jaspers, Cambridge Arcade 01704 634572, sweetjaspers.co.uk         3. Head off […]

The Chop House, famed for its live music nights, is hosting an Evening with Kappa on Saturday, 3rd October to beat the new curfew!   Doors at the bar, on Scarisbrick Avenue in Southport town centre, will open at 5pm with food served between 6pm and 7pm.   The band will play between 7.15pm and 9.30pm before closing at 10pm.   Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday announced a series of measures to bring down Coronavirus cases, including a new 10pm curfew for bars, restaurants, cafe, takeaways, cinemas and other hospitality businesses.     Chop House owner Carl White said: “Due to the new and updated Government guidelines we are having to change the way we deliver live music and entertainment. So we are going old school!   “We are running an evening with the bands on a Saturday night, a showcase that incorporates live music, food and drink, all together in a package for £35 per person.   “We have outsourced a caterer and will include seven drinks vouchers. An example of how we have costed this is: food = £10 per person, seven drinks, ie if you chose seven double JD & Cokes that would normally be £35, plus […]

A Southport firm has begun taking orders for freshly-made home cocktail deliveries!   Paul and Chantelle Drewery own the Flair ‘n’ Funk events company as well as Spender’s Bar on Scarisbrick Avenue in Southport town centre.   The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that some people have become nervous about venturing out for a night out. The marvellous mixologists can help by bringing their bar to you.  They even prepare the cocktails fresh outside people’s homes before delivering them.   Paul ‘Spender’ Drewery said: “We are now delivering cocktails made freshly at your door in Southport and  surrounding areas. The cocktails are literally made fresh outside your house from the back of our vehicle on arrival. “We are genuinely bringing the bar to your home! It doesn’t get much fresher and tastier than that.”   Cocktails are made by the one and only Spender as part of Flair ’N’ Funk’s new Cocktail Delivery Service.   Paul said: “We are out delivering on Friday and Saturday this week with the minimum order of just four cocktails! We have a huge range to choose from on our menu, we even do mocktails, beers and shots too!  We also have a great option for those […]

It is National Fish and Chip day today and as a (Northern) seaside town, Southport of course does some of the very best!  What better excuse to treat yourself to a Friday night fish supper then a National celebration and throwing some support for our local independent businesses in the process.  Read on for some of the town centre’s best, and if you indulge tonight we ask only two things of you – share your pics of your supper with @southportindies and get some batter bits.  You should always get some batter bits. King’s Plaice One of Southport’s newest chip shop, the King’s Plaice opened last year. With a fresh and modern interior and booth seating, you can eat in, take out or even enjoy some September sunshine on Lord Street with their outdoor seating. Diva Right in the heart of the town, Diva is a great bet for a good fish and chips.  Diva is a particularly good destination for families on a bright afternoon as they boast a mini soft play in the cafe so parents can sit in relative peace as tiny ones play The Dolphin Set along the traditional tourist boulevard of Scarisbrick Avenue, The Dolphin […]

One of Southport’s latest additions to the coffee scene is back in action and looking for its first Team Leader.   In November 2019, 92° opened its fourth store, this time outside of Liverpool, after the rise in support within the independent business scene in the coastal town often backed by Southport BID who support over 750 local businesses in the area.   Having only opened for four months prior the pandemic, the team are back and located on Lord Street, open daily from 10am-5pm, serving its well-known blends accompanied by its food menu, in which for the remainder of August, is part of the government’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme, meaning you could score your favourite blend and sandwich for under £5.   As part of the expansion into Southport, 92° is looking for its first Team Leader for the store.   Operations Director, Gerard Bowers-McIntyre says “Being part of a new community is extremely exciting and we can’t thank the locals of Southport enough for their warm welcome. To add to the excitement, we’re on the hunt for 92° Southport’s first Team Leader – a brilliant opportunity for a passionate and knowledgeable individual to be a key […]

Southport BID is inviting people to support the Government’s Shop Local Week.   Announced yesterday, the initiative will see seven days of concentrated activity encouraging shoppers to return to their local high street and shop safely.   This year’s initiative begins on 10 August and runs until 17 August. It encourages shoppers to call into their favourite local greengrocer, bakery or florist, or any other local shop, by demonstrating how businesses are safely welcoming back customers.   Southport BID is doing its best to support the town by recently redesigning and relaunching its Southport Independents website and directory, with over 100 amazing local shops to discover.   And they have now launched their brand new Southport Gift Card which customers can use to spend in more than 60 shops, restaurants, bars and leisure attractions in the resort.   The new measures are designed to help local businesses to rebuild after the coronavirus lockdown and to build local loyalty.   Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said: “We fully get behind this Government campaign and want to encourage both businesses and the public to do the same. Never have our local businesses needed our support more. Many worked tirelessly and creatively throughout […]

A delicious new street food destination has opened in Southport town centre.    Paulo no Mercado has just opened at Southport Market, with a frontage facing both King Street and Market Street.    The inspiration behind the new venture came from Twelve restaurant Head Chef and Owner Paulo Teixeira and Restaurant Manager Lee Hall. Twelve restaurant, on nearby Princes Street, is described as ‘a fusion kitchen fine dining experience.    The venue is currently rated the third best out of 243 restaurants in Southport by diners on TripAdvisor.    Seeing a new venture from one of Southport’s top restaurants is a huge coup for the market, which was last week awarded £900,000 through Southport Town Deal funding in a bid to transform it into an exciting new food, drink and events hub.   The name ‘Paulo no Mercado’ translates to ‘Paulo in the Market’.    Paulo and Lee said: “We have dreamed of creating a place where we would feel at home having a morning coffee. From Pasteis de Nata to the best Salt & Pepper dishes to Wagyu burgers to enjoy with lunch time drinks, this is amazing freshly cooked street food in a friendly environment.   “For anyone […]

Over 200 local businesses already feature on the site, which launched this weekend. More will  join them over the coming weeks. The Southport Indies campaign is designed to support and highlight local independent firms that are the beating heart of Southport. The southportindependents.co.uk website will allow people to enjoy a great way to discover new businesses and find just how much Southport has to offer. Southport BID Business Engagement Manager Sarah Rodriguez said: “We want to celebrate the amazing shops, gorgeous cafes, vibrant bars and the wealth of small but often hidden businesses that make our town exciting and interesting.   “The website is designed to make it easy to search and explore and help view shopping, eating and socialising in Southport in a whole new light. “There is so much more to offer in Southport then people often believe. We have some absolutely amazing businesses here, from shops that have been here for generations to exciting new cafés and bars. Now more than ever these independent businesses need all of our support. As the town begins recovering from the impact of lockdown, we wanted to bring initiatives to help highlight these businesses and put them at the forefront. We hope […]

People are being urged to support Southport businesses by making sure they turn up for bookings Southport Business Improvement District is today backing a campaign asking customers to be more considerate to firms in the town as they look to recover from the impact of the Coronavirus outbreak. Many restaurants, hairdressers, hotels, beauty salons, pubs, barbers and others have finally reopened after spending nearly four months in lockdown. But they are doing so with social distancing and other safety measures in place. This means greatly reduced capacity for many – with the result that someone who books a table, a beauty treatment or a room but then fails to keep their appointment could have a substantial impact on takings for a local business at a time when they are desperately trying to rebuild and to survive. The ‘no show’ issue was highlighted a few days ago when celebrity chef Tom Kerridge angrily criticised a “selfish” group of 27 customers who made a booking at his London restaurant but then didn’t turn up. Tom criticised the “disgraceful” no-showers for putting jobs at risk during the coronavirus pandemic, at a time when many businesses like his are having to adapt to changes. […]

Find all the #SouthportIndies restaurants and cafes continuing to deliver or be open for take aways. If you know of any we have missed or that are no longer operating – please just email us and we will keep this page updated.   Please click the links to individual businesses socials and websites for details. Whilst you are there, give them a follow or like and share. They are there for us through this crisis and we need to all be there for them when it is over   #southportindies #standupforsouthport #shoplocal #staysafe   TAKE AWAY OR DELIVERY   Italian, French and Mediterranean   Chez Moi Bistro – One of Southport’s best loved French bistros are delivering via Just Eat Deli Volare – Volare’s Italian meals to your door and deli items to order Bistro Bar Med – Mediterranean tapas to your door Trattoria 51 – Fresh Italian pizza, pasta and more   Fish and Chips   The Sandgrounder – Available for take away from their Nevill Street shop The Swan – Fresh burgers, loaded fries, cocktails and more Diva Cafe – Fresh fish and chips on Lord Street                     Burgers, […]

Still not decided on the perfect gift for Father’s Day? Dad or Grandad still shielding and you can’t be with them? Then why not brighten their weekend and send the banquet to the them? Read on for some inspiration   Roast Dinners   Let’s face it, we are all going to be missing those traditional Sunday roasts in the pub this Father’s Day. All is not lost though, the rules might not permit a big gathering but you can still enjoy a full carvery from the comfort of your own home. Or why not organise one to be delivered to parent’s still shielding? There are options for everyone, with several #southportindies serving up a whole lot of heaven each week   Bentley’s amazing homecooked roasts have all the trimmings and are a bargain at £9.95. Pre-order by 12pm Saturday and call 07922 303236 for orders. No 1 Bar & Eatery deliver from Banks to Ainsdale. Choose from chicken, beef or vegan sausages at a brilliant price of £4.50 for one meat or £6.00 for a choice of two.   The Steaks are high   The Bold Hotel, already our #southportindies heroes for converting themselves to a key workers supermarket, is […]

It’s absolutely amazing what can be achieved when we work together. Southport Indies have done us proud once again, not only adapting to the current crisis but also being there for the front line staff.   The sense of community is really shining through the grey mist of this pandemic and it’s wonderful to be able to support those businesses who want to give something back. Here are few lovely ideas we caught via social media, so peruse through our amazing list of independent businesses that are adding that little some extra for NHS and frontline staff.   if you want to get involved or added to our hero’s list, please message the team.   Pilates Works are offering online classes   Seeing great businesses like Pilates Works adapting to the isolation nation inspires us all to redeem some sort of normality. Classes are now available online and and are free to NHS Heroes.   Book in online at pilatesworks.uk com or call 07958 983535   Hidden Vines and Gas Monitor Point   Paul and the team at Gas Monitor Point wanted to find a way to give back to our frontline workers and what better way then FREE wine! […]

Not sure what day it is right now? Well the weekend is upon us! Another week in lockdown is done. It is time to reward yourself and banish the quarantine blues.   Whether you are planning an indulgent night in pjs for one, a nights rest for parents at their wits end or a Zoom night in with take away, friends and a drink – here is our guide to great indies providing great food direct to you at home.   The Vincent Hotel   The Vincent announced the launch of their new to-go menu to start the 1st of May! Indulge yourself with exquisite sushi platters, maki or hot sharing plates, nibbles and hot meals.   Call 01704 883 800 to order Click and Collect or delivery is available Wednesday – Sunday 4pm – 9pm (last orders 8pm)⁣⁣ Find the menu on their Facebook   Just Wings   Choose your spice level, sit back and wait for the incomparable buffalo wings or boneless strips to land on your doorstep, courtesy of Just Wings. Wings not your thing? There are chicken burgers and wraps for the non believers and so much more besides. May we recommend the firecracker prawns, calamari […]

Find all the #SouthportIndies open, delivering or trading online during this Covid crisis. If you know of any we have missed or that are no longer operating – please just email us and we will keep this page updated.   Please click the links to individual businesses socials and websites for details and dates on deliveries. Whilst you are there, give them a follow or like and share. They are there for us through this crisis and we need to all be there for them when it is over   #southportindies #standupforsouthport #shoplocal #stayhome   TAKE AWAY OR DELIVERY   Restaurants Delivering The Vincent Hotel – Sushi, hot plates and nibbles Chez Moi Bistro – One of Southport’s best loved French bistros are delivering via Just Eat Deli Volare – Volare’s Italian meals to your door and deli items to order Bistro Bar Med – Mediterranean tapas to your door The Bold Hotel – Afternoon Teas and roast dinners The Firepit – Fresh burgers, loaded fries, cocktails and more Trattoria 51 – Fresh Italian pizza, pasta and more Voodoo Vegan Takeaway – Vegan burgers and more from Megafauna cafe   Fish, Chips, Burgers and Wings   Gyros House – Superb […]

Valentines is just next week so we have come over all romantic and thought we would do a little guide to some of the best spots for that big date night. But wait – these aren’t your typical dimmed bistro with a candle in a bottle, oh no, this is the guide to something a little bit different that will really get the conversation started and make for a great night. Single and happy? Well still read on as these are all great places to head to with friends and family. Think Valentines is cynical and commercial. Very possibly, but what is wrong with an excuse to share the love? Bookmark this blog still and find somewhere great for when you do want to up the date game. Make the romance sizzle The Firepit is tucked away on West Street and is well worth discovering. Have the best cut steaks brought to your table and cook them to your liking on the hot stone slab. It will quite literally create some sizzle between you and your date! When the heat dies down, what better then a cocktail upstairs in their cocktail lounge? Twelve Princes Street is just the right amount […]

Gin became a new found love for us and Susannah at Remedy is almost entirely to blame for it for educating us on what we were missing.   It isn’t just us that caught the gin bug and Remedy have earned a well-deserved place in Southport’s physical and metaphorical heart with their huge range of gins and knowledgeable staff. Owners Sarah & Susannah have made a huge impact in Southport’s night times since opening five years ago. Bringing something unique and new to the town with a concept gin & whisky bar, they have led the ‘gin revolution’ in Southport, with style.   But in this month of food and drink, we thought we would celebrate some of the other great specialist drinking destinations that are taking Southport by storm.   Real Ale Revolution   It’s not all about gin. Real ales have steadily regained popularity over the last decade. Never ones to be behind the trend, Southport has embraced the movement wholeheartedly. The long-established Inn Beer Shop on North Lord Street has built a brilliant reputation for its relaxed atmosphere and huge range of ales. Their success is evident from their decision last year to open a world beer […]