Kalash Divine Indian restaurant in Southport is celebrating winning the title of Best Traditional Indian Restaurant in the Northern Enterprise Awards 2021. The stylish venue opened at the Ribble building-end of Lord Street two years ago. The Northern Enterprise Awards celebrate the industriousness and the dedication of the businesses and enterprises hailing from the north of England. Kalash Diving Indian owners Ranjeet Singh and Alvino Cardozo were eager to create a renaissance of Indian cuisine with a series of stylish and imaginative dishes to highlight the very best of south east Asia. They said: “We are absolutely over the moon to be named as Best Traditional Indian Restaurant in the Northern Enterprise Awards 2021! “We are fairly new to the town but have been so warmly welcomed since we opened our doors. “We are so grateful to all our customers for your support, custom and friendship. “Thank you to the Northern Enterprise Awards!” Kalash Divine Indian restaurant has gained a large local following since it opened two years ago. It is among a number of new local, independent businesses that have opened in the ‘Western Quarter’ of Lord Street in recent months, with others including Dental Arts @ 23 Lord […]

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 […]

Are your glass slippers ready for a much-needed outing this Christmas? The Atkinson has once again pulled out all the stops to bring some Pantomime magic to Southport this Christmas, with the family classic Cinderella. Cinderella, her wicked Stepmother, the jealous stepsisters, the loveable Buttons, a dreamy Prince Charming and of course Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother will all be making an appearance onstage from 10th December 2021 until the 2nd January 2022. The Atkinson are also delighted to announce that headlining this year’s show is a very familiar face to us all, TV presenter, actress and incredible singer, Claire Sweeney, who will be playing fan favourite, The Fairy Godmother. ‘The countdown to Christmas has officially begun and we are hugely excited to be working with LHK productions again after the overwhelming success of last years’ show. I couldn’t be happier to welcome Claire to The Atkinson stage, she is undoubtedly a natural at pantomime with her humour and stunning vocals. This year is going to be really special, we can’t wait to share some festive magic and wonderful memories with our audiences! ‘- Marie Kenny, Performing Arts Programme Manager Originally from Liverpool, Claire has graced our TV screens for many years and is […]

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 […]

By Andrew Brown One of Britain’s greatest fashion designers, whose creations are adored by celebrities including The Duchess of Cambridge, Madonna and Beyoncé, will stage a very special event in Southport this week. Shoppers can immerse themselves in the World of Temperley with a fabulous ‘Trunk Show’ at Coco Boutique at 92/96 Lord Street this Wednesday (29th September). It is a huge coup for the stylish shop to secure such a prestigious event from one of the country’s leading fashion designers. Coco Boutique MD Nicola Johnson said: “We are very excited this Wednesday that the British designer Alice Temperley is sending her pop-up to our store . “We will be showcasing her collections in an all-day event . “This is our first trunk show, and their first trunk show in the UK.” Coco Boutique is one of the North West’s leading ladies’ designer fashion boutiques. The local, independent business offers over 35 ready to wear brands hand-picked from London, Paris and Milan. The brands include the much sought-after Temperley London designs, which customers will be able to see in all their glory this Wednesday. The brand is owned by Alice Temperley MBE, an English fashion designer based in Somerset. Her […]

  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 […]

An award-winning gift shop is delighted to open a concession in the new Beales department store in Southport. Last year Medusa Gems was recognised as one of the top four gift shops in the UK, after being named as a Finalist in The Greats Gifts Retailer Awards 2020. The shop stands proud at the front of the elegant Wayfarers Arcade on Lord Street, and is now enjoying selling its beautiful gifts and gemstone jewellery sourced from all over the world in the new Beales store next door too. Shoppers will be able to enjoy a range of gifts including gemstone jewellery, home fragrance, glassware, gifts, crystals, ornaments and home decor. Medusa Gems is also an exclusive Ashleigh & Burwood retailer and is also an official stockist of Wild Things Swarovski Crystals, Quail Ceramics and Aromatize, the market leaders in wax melt burners and candle accessories. The family business is run by Helen Pallis and Carl Pallis, who started their business in Greece before relocating to Southport just over five years ago. Helen Pallis said: “We are so thrilled to be expanding and opening a concession in the new Beales department store, right next door to where we are now. We […]

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 […]

The thriving new look Southport Market has attracted an inspirational local cake maker to open a new shop nearby.  Southport Market opened last month following a £1.4million transformation, with the ambition of sparking new life into the ‘Market Quarter’ area.  The Cake Box, owned by talented local baker Lauren Wickham, is now due to move into a vacant unit at 22 Market Street, directly opposite the side entrance of Southport Market.  Lauren has attracted a huge following since launching her new business last year, after being furloughed from her job as a beauty therapist when the Covid pandemic hit the UK.  She has been helped along the way by her chief taster – her daughter, eight-year-old Hazel.  Lauren, who celebrates her 27th birthday this Wednesday, said: “The opening of the new Southport Market definitely inspired me to move to Market Street, as it’s such a busy area with all new eateries and no-one selling the same product as me. “There is definitely a lot of potential business and passing trade. “Hopefully the Market Quarter area will become a little community for all shop owners and new businesses.” Lauren was furloughed from her job as a beauty therapist in March last […]

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 […]

From The Block Fitness in Southport has teamed up with Bliss Hotel to host its first ever residential fitness weekend, a fitness staycation in Southport. The weekend will be hosted by From The Block Fitness owner, personal trainer Lisa Little, on the weekend of 1st October and 2nd October.  The fitness staycation will include a two night overnight stay in the four star Bliss Hotel, at The Waterfront in Southport.  All meals will be included and all will be nutritionally balanced. Guests can take part in a daily schedule of fitness classes, to be held at From The Block Fitness.  They can enjoy scenic morning runs around the beautiful Marine Lake, and evening beach walks to wind down the day. Experienced personal trainer Lisa will be giving motivational and nutrition talks, with plenty of opportunity to share experiences and fitness advice as a group. There will also be an all important goody bag on departure! Lisa said: “This will be a whole weekend of fitness, food and fun!  “I cannot promise anyone will drop a dress size, but I can promise that I will put them firmly on the path to doing so.”  The Covid pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have […]

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 Southport firm which specialises in low and slow cooked food is offering visitors a mouth-watering selection of American-inspired hand-crafted burgers, hot dogs and loaded fries when they open at the new look Southport Market.  Allotment has earned a big following for its food and drink ever since it opened in Birkdale Village in Southport in 2017.  Owners and best friends Gavin Williams and James Kennedy now can’t wait to open their new Allotment unit when Southport Market opens at 10am this Thursday (22nd July).  Gavin and James are among a number of existing Southport traders who have taken units at the new attraction, giving it a real local feel.  Gavin said: “Yes, it’s very exciting! The place looks amazing, so I’m sure the residents of Southport will love it!”  The market is at full capacity with ten traders and a large bar, in addition to an impressive events space.  For James and Gavin, opening an Allotment outlet in there was an easy decision to make.  Gavin said: “When we heard about the market we thought it was a great idea – having frequented Altrincham Market, Mackie Mayor and Baltic Market regularly we know how phenomenal these places are and […]

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; […]

There will be split loyalties in a well-known Southport restaurateur’s household this weekend when England play Italy in the final of Euro 2020!  Attilio Sergi has owned the Trattoria 51 Italian restaurant on the Promenade in Southport over the past few years, earning a superb reputation for the venue’s delicious seafood and home-cooked pizza and pasta.  Attilio, who grew up in Lecce in southern Italy, will be watching Sunday’s final alongside his wife, Erica, who will be cheering on England!  Attilio said: “I have just bought an England shirt for Erica but cannot find an Italy one!  “I will be watching the match in my lounge with my lovely wife. “I hope that the best team will win and that it doesn’t go down to the lottery of penalties!  “Do not forget that my wife is a Scouser and I was born in Italy, although bred in England for the last 37 years! “No matter which way the game goes, I will still be a winner!”  Attilio grew up in Lecce, on the ‘heel’ of the southern side of Italy. He said: “Lecce is a town as big as Southport. They did have a football side in Serie A, but […]

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, […]

The Fragrance Shop, the UK’s leading independent fragrance retailer, is excited to unveil another new store in Southport.  Opening its doors on Saturday 24th July on busy Chapel Street, the heart of Southport’s town centre, The Fragrance Shop is ready to welcome new shoppers at a safe distance. It will be the company’s third new store in 2021.  It is a positive time for Chapel Street, with One Below opening this Friday (9th July); 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. After months of online-only shopping, customers can finally spray a little happiness with The Fragrance Shop’s fragrance experts, who have been specially trained to assist and help customers sample fragrances safely. A one-way system and social distance guide markers are also in place to ensure the government’s social distancing rule is followed at ease, and cash desks will be sanitised after each purchase to ensure everyone is in good, clean hands. To celebrate the launch of the Southport store, customers will be welcomed to its official opening event on Saturday 31st July, where a limited number of goodie […]

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 brand new fidget sensory toy shop has opened in Southport town centre.  Kose Sensory Play has opened as a section within Kelly’s Electrical on Wesley Street, which has been a favourite among generations of shoppers for over 50 years.  The two ventures are combining, to give people ‘two shops in one’.  They are being run by husband and wife John and Kim Kelly.  Kim Kelly said: “Kose Sensory Play is a fidget sensory shop on Wesley Street, Southport. Jack Kelly, our grandfather, of Kelly’s Electrical retired last September and passed down the business to us.  “Kelly’s Electrical will always be here as Kelly’s is still a popular shop that’s been here over 50 years.  “After a declutter we realised we had the space to add a sensory toy section. “For a long time we have wanted to provide children with additional needs a ‘try before you buy’ sensory shop as we know too well how difficult it is to provide children with calming sensory items which are affordable and durable.”  The couple know just how important and valued good quality sensory toys are.  Kim said: “We have years of experience working with children and adults with additional needs. “We […]

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 […]

A brand new family-run independent business selling “the best milkshakes and waffles in Merseyside” has opened in Southport.  The Shake Factory has gained a glowing reputation at its original store in Prescot in recent years, and has now opened its second venture at 5B Hoghton Street right in the heart of Southport town centre.  Owner Phil Whitfield said: “This the second Shake Factory – the original is in Prescot and is now over four years old.  “The Shake Factory is an independent family business just off Chapel Street offering delicious, freshly made to order milkshakes, waffles, smoothies and cookie dough. “Many believe the shakes and waffles are the best in Merseyside. “We open seven days a week and we also deliver within three miles of the Southport town centre.  “We have three aims;  “Provide the best quality desserts “Provide the best customer service “Save customers money – our regular milkshake is everyone else’s large!”  The Shake Factory is also giving young people a real chance to shine.  Phil Whitfield said: “Scarlet, 18, is owner / manager at the forefront of the business with a young workforce behind her. “We decided to open in Southport because we saw an opportunity to […]

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 […]

Fine Art photographer, Andrew Sharrock, is showcasing his latest ‘Impressionistic Landscapes’ at The ArtHouse in Southport town centre.  He said: “All my images are inspired by the Sefton Coastline. During lockdown the local areas are all we had.” Always impassioned by art from an early age, Andrew later revealed his appetite for Fine Art & Impressionism through his characteristically captured image creations. Graduating as a mature student from Hugh Baird College in Bootle in 2019 with a Photography BA, Andrew eagerly grasped the opportunity then set by his Degree Course Leader to target his photography towards a new focus for his final honours project. He said: “I was challenged to take my photography in a new direction. I was influenced to take on a different perspective to traditional landscapes. Right there and then, I was given new purpose and direction which deepened my relationship with photography and connected me even more with my inner creative spirit.” Andrew’s confrontation with the ‘norm’ introduced him to the creative world of ‘Intentional Camera Movement’.  By slowing down shutter speed and using his camera as a paintbrush, Andrew was able to apply the illusion of movement to an otherwise still image.  He said: “I […]

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 […]

The Lansdowne Bistro in Southport is delighted to be welcoming back customers after reopening following lockdown. This stylish venue, on Anchor Street, is one of Southport’s real hidden gems. It is fast forging an excellent reputation among diners, after enjoying new ownership last year. However it is very much a case of the best of both worlds, with dynamic new changes adding to the best of what The Lansdowne Bistro has been known and loved for over many years. The bistro was run by legendary Southport restaurateur Mark Tyndall for many years, after his previous ventures included Francisca’s on King Street. The family tradition for great food lives on with Mark’s son, Patrick Tyndall, now taking ownership alongside friend and business partner Jamie Rae. The new business enjoyed its launch night in August 2020 and after months in lockdown is finally enjoying welcoming back its many regular customers – as well as hosting lots of new ones. Jamie Rae said: “We have had a fantastic opening week at the Lansdowne Bistro, it’s been great to welcome back all our regular customers and so many new faces who have been desperate to try us for the first time. “It’s clear from […]

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 […]

Everton WSL star Simone Magill and Southport MP Damien Moore have officially launched the new beer garden and bar at Skies on Lord Street in Southport.  The new independent business, which employs 11 local people, partially opened in August last year but has spent most of the past few months closed due to national Covid lockdowns.  During that time, owner NG Chindam and his team have been busy transforming the previously empty venue into a stunning new venue. Guests can enjoy seating outside on Lord Street; a bar and restaurant area inside, with the eye-catching Victorian skylight a real feature; while a newly-created beer garden to the rear guarantees peace and quiet and privacy in a real suntrap.  The design and architecture has been carried out by Southport firm Clayton Architecture. Skies Director NG Chindam said: “We are so happy that our new beer garden was launched on Friday by the Right Honourable Member of Parliament for Southport Damien Moore while our cocktail and wine bar was inaugurated by champion football player Simone Magill on Sunday.  “We are so glad for the support we have been receiving from local people for small and  independent businesses like us. “I really appreciate all […]

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 […]

A children’s shop in Southport that was ransacked by burglars earlier this month has reopened.  Thieves broke into Over The Moon Kids Boutique and Shoe Studio on Union Street in Southport town centre on Easter Saturday (3 April), causing substantial damage.  After a huge clean-up operation, owner Tina Bulmer is delighted to be back open again.  Now she is inviting local people to support her shop and other local businesses in Southport as they look to recover from months of lockdown.  She said: “We’ve had lots of bookings and our customers have started coming back, so we are delighted to be back open. “Hopefully with the good weather the customers will want some lovely new outfits for summer, it’s so nice to see customers back in the shop and to hear all the lovely comments on our new summer collections, and how nice the shop looks. “After 11 years we have a lot of very loyal customers who have sent messages of support, after hearing of our horrible break-in. “We are looking forward to seeing everyone soon.” The shop is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm. Shoe Fitting appointments now being taken, please phone and Book on 01704 545884.  […]

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 […]

A popular cafe in Southport town centre is now sparkling, ready to welcome customers back after the national Covid lockdown.  Remedy, which is situated in the Town Hall Gardens on Lord Street, has been decorated with 7,000 new lights by Southport-based firm IllumiDex UK Ltd.  Earlier this month IllumiDex completed the impressive project to turn the historic mile-long Lord Street into “a boulevard of lights” with 300,000 new bulbs strung across 80 trees. The Southport BID initiative, with financial support from Southport Town Deal, is designed to create an attractive environment for people to enjoy shopping, dining, drinking and visiting the town centre.  Remedy on Lord Street has now paid IllumiDex to help dazzle its customers. IllumiDex has been busy during the past few weeks providing new lighting for a number of both commercial and residential projects, lighting up businesses as well as people’s homes and gardens.  IllumiDex owner Steve Clayton said: “We made sure that the colour of the new lighting at Remedy matches the lights in the trees along Lord Street.  “We have installed 70 sets of lights on the roof of the building. The owner, Susannah Porter, is made up with it.  “We installed the lighting during […]

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 […]

The first easing of the national Covid-19 measures took place this week, with children finally returning to school after weeks away from class. With thousands of businesses now getting ready to open next, a Southport insurance firm is urging people to ensure that they have the right cover in place before they do. Birkdale Insurance Group opened on Hoghton Street in Southport town centre in 2020. The firm offers personal and business insurance for competitive premiums through a large panel of insurers. Run by local people and situated in the heart of the town centre, customers can be assured of the personal touch with real people rather than struggling to get hold of someone on the end of a phone many miles away. Director George Wall said: “Birkdale Insurance Group has built our market leading reputation and loyal customer base on strong, long-standing relationships and mutual trust. “We know the insurance market inside out, we train our advisors continually, and we listen carefully to our customers. “Simple, honest and straightforward communication is key and you’ll find us responsive and reliable. Insurance may not be top of your shopping list, but it is vital, so we will make sure the buying […]

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 […]

Should the Stamp Duty holiday be extended? In July 2020, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak scrapped the tax on all homes under £500,000, giving a huge boost to the UK housing market. On Monday (1 February) a petition with 141,952 signatures called for the Stamp Duty holiday to be extended.  Here Alan Jones, Sales Director for Curlett Jones Estates on Lord Street in Southport, shares his expert view:    At Curlett Jones Estates, we are feeling along with our clients and buyers, the pressure of completing house moves before the end of the Stamp Duty tax break on 31st March 2021. Over 140,000 people have now signed a petition to have the Stamp Duty tax break extended to ensure the housing market doesn’t collapse under the immense pressure this has caused. Due to the number of people petitioning their MPs, Parliament held a virtual Petitions Committee debate on 1 February 2021 on the possibility of extending the Stamp Duty holiday, beyond the current deadline of 31 March 2021. MPs lined up to take part and many of them had examples of current transactions which are stuck in a logjam due to Covid-19 restrictions and which are now unlikely to […]

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 […]

Renowned horticulturist Christine Walkden is to return to Southport Flower Show this year to share her gardening knowledge with visitors. The award-winning TV and radio presenter, who is a firm favourite at Southport, will be at the show on Thursday 19th August. Originally from Lancashire, Christine started growing vegetables on an allotment near her home when she was just ten years old. Her first job after leaving school was in the gardens of her local park and she progressed through a series of posts including a spell at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew before she brought her infectious enthusiasm and passion for plants to wider audiences as a broadcaster and lecturer. She said:  “Southport Flower Show always gives pleasure and interest to gardeners as there is so much to see and do. Great plants and gardens plus lots of entertainment too. It’s a good day out for all and I consider the show to be the Chelsea of the North.” Christine is the resident gardening expert on BBC The One Show and is also a panel member of BBC Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time. She has presented BBC’s Gardeners World and her own BBC2 TV series Christine’s Garden, and Glorious […]

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 […]

A business owner has revealed why his love of the Lord Street boulevard led him to opening a stylish new restaurant and bar in Southport.   Nagender Chindam has recently opened Skylight, at 459 Lord Street, opposite Sainsbury’s supermarket.    The venue specialises in speciality coffee, cakes and delicious snacks, while work takes place to open a brand new restaurant and cocktail bar.    The formerly vacant unit has been transformed with the help of Clayton Architecture and other local firms.    Nagender said: “I love Southport, and Lord Street is amazing!    “It’s beautiful – the most amazing street in the UK. Lord Street has stunning architecture, and so many great buildings!”    Nagender has worked as an IT consultant, with 20 years experience. But during the Covid-19 lockdown he decided on a change of career.    He said: “Instead of sitting idle at home, I wanted to get Skylight open. We got a great team together and within four or five weeks we got this palace up and running. It was all thanks to the support of people and workers in Southport. If this was anywhere else, we could not have done this.”      Clayton Architecture has […]

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 […]

The Government backed ‘Eat out to help out’ scheme ended last week and proved a huge hit with you all!  No one is averse to a good deal and bit of discount, and the added beauty was the support it gave our local, indie restaurants.   After so many nail biting weeks for our passionate small business owners, it has been a relief to see how many of you took advantage of the scheme and to see venues busy.   But now the deal is over, those owners still need your support and custom if they are to continue to survive and thrive. The tourists season is ending, it is up to us now as a community to keep our favourite places alive!   Some of our favourite destinations are trying to keep the momentum going through September with their own discounts, deals and offers. Find out more here (and don’t forget to book!):   Rueters 25% off food Monday to Wednesday 26 Hoghton Street, 01704 544123   Bistro Bar Med 20% off Wednesday evenings, bookings only! 7 Coronation Walk, 01704 512009   Remedy 25% off all hot drinks, cakes and food every Monday 110 Lord Street, 01704 535785   Bold […]

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 […]

It’s official!  One of the UK’s best gift retailers is right here in Southport. Medusa Gems Gift Shop, set in the stunning Wayfarer’s Arcade, has been selected as a finalist in The Greats Gift Retailer Awards 2020! Whilst we, of course, believe without any doubt that there are brilliant independents businesses of all kinds in Southport, businesses that make Southport worthy of recognition as a destination for good boutique shopping and eating, it makes us proud to see someone recognised Nationally.  Owner Helen is excited to see her dedication and passion for her business recognised at this level. The Greats Awards, now in their 18th year, were launched by Progressive Gifts & Home magazine to recognise and reward the UK’s very best gift retailers across the retail spectrum. “These dedicated awards for gift retailers have risen immeasurably in status over the years and are now universally acknowledged as being true accolades of excellence,” commented Sue Marks, Editor of Progressive Gifts & Home. “Being selected as a finalist was a fantastic achievement. There was a huge entry this year, with some outstanding, first class entries.”     All retail finalists were decided as a result of an industrywide poll of gift […]

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 […]

The Government’s ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme launches next week.  The scheme offers up to £10 per person off food and non-alcoholic drinks, Monday to Wednesday in participating restaurants. Now we love a discount, but why we love this scheme a little more, is it’s aims to help protect businesses and jobs by giving us added incentive to dine out right now. We can’t stress how much we support anything that gives you more reason to get out and support these exceptional businesses right now Once you see just how great the restaurants, cafes and pubs taking part though, our guess is you will want to go, discount or not!   Great British Pubs If it is home cooked, traditional pub food you have been hankering for during lock down then both The Cheshire Lines or The Windmill are excellent choices.  The Guest House has great meals you can wash down with great cask ale.   For a family feast with some great food or a Sunday roast how about The Hungry Monk, The Office or Rueters?  Full carvery?  Then The Bold is where you need to be. Lunch with friends Craving a proper English breakfast or bit of lunch […]

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 […]

Our independent businesses have been at the centre of our community throughout lockdown, staying open to serve us the essentials the big stores ran out of and delivering to us as we shielded. Our local bars, restaurants and cafes have been a lifeline for most of us.   They adapted themselves and adjusted quickly to be able to get meals to people isolating. They created whole new menus and ways of working just to lift our spirits with amazing meals and treats. They even brought us ready made cocktails and organised gin nights for when we just needed to enjoy virtual time with friends.   So now, as they all prepare to reopen from next weekend, what should you expect and how can you support them in return?   New rules of engagement   The hospitality industry has been given over 30 steps from the Government that they have to take to reopen. These are rules and measures to keep everyone of us safe and for their teams to be safe in their work. These are not arbitrary measures they have been over zealous about putting in place. They are mandatory   Some key changes include:   Most venues will […]

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, […]

Southport was founded in 1792 when one William Sutton opened a small hotel where Lord Street and Duke Street meet. The town slowly flourished from there and shops and houses were built, creating what became the now iconic Lord Street.   Independent businesses have always flourished in the town, with Southport enjoying a reputation for exclusive stores in the glory days of high street shopping. Times have changed, the internet has taken over, landscapes have evolved and exciting new businesses and entrepreneurs make Southport their home still – but who has lasted the distance?   Read about some of Southport’s oldest indies here, including the original Duke’s hotel!   Connards Jewellers   Now in its fourth generation of family owners this iconic shop and stunning building was opened by Walter Connard in 1883. Still in its original location with many of it’s original fixtures, Connard’s remains Southport’s oldest family run firm – 137 years and counting! Daughter Elizabeth also owns and runs the successful neighbouring business Lilibets.   Where: 421 Lord Street Find out more: connards.co.uk   June’s Florist   One of Southport’s longest standing family run businesses, June’s opened in it’s iconic corner premises and has been blooming in […]