Historically important film projectors have been rescued from the former Southport Theatre by Sefton Council and partners working on the Marine Lake Events Centre project. Three huge projectors had to be carefully lifted out of the building, which is currently being demolished, by crane in a planned operation by the Local Authority’s demolition contractor DSM earlier this week. Such is the size of the machines the roof of the former theatre had to be removed before they projectors could be taken out. They will now be safely stored away along with other historical memorabilia from the building ahead of its…
Author: On The Spot News
Emergency services were called to Hesketh Park in Southport early this morning following the discovery of a man’s body. Merseyside Police have confirmed that they received a report at around 5:30 am on Friday, October 11, after a man in his 50s was found deceased in the park. Paramedics attended the scene, but sadly, the man was pronounced dead on arrival. The police have stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file is being prepared for the coroner. Authorities believe the man was of Latvian origin, and efforts are underway to trace his next of…
Following calls from Southport’s Labour MP to transfer ownership and responsibility away from Southport, Mike Prendergast, Conservative Group Leader on Sefton Council, has called the plans “ridiculous” and “straight from the socialist playbook”. Mike Prendergast said, “Southport is a fantastic place to live and work. I’ve lived here for 25 years, I got married here and it’s where I’m bringing up my children. To me, Southport is my home and I’m incredibly lucky to live in such a place. “Unlike Southport’s Labour MP, I don’t think our town centre, our seasonal economy or our Victorian heritage are hinderances or liabilities.…
Southport had its second royal visit in nearly as many months today after the Prince and Princess of Wales met with victims of the Southport tragedy. William and Catherine are understood to have met with families and others who were directly impacted in the tragic events of July 29th. In private they met the families of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, who died as a result of the attack at The Hart Space community centre in July. They also met with one of the dance teachers who was leading the session. The…
A man from Southport has been jailed for two years and four months for his role in the violent disorder outside of Southport Mosque in July. Martin Taylor, 39, of Montgomery Avenue, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and possession of a controlled Class B drug and was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday, Wednesday 9 October. CCTV footage shows Taylor at the forefront of the disorder in Southport on Tuesday 30 July and was identified throwing numerous missiles at officers and a brick at a police carrier. Detective Chief Inspector Tony Roberts said: “The despicable actions of those involved that…
The Southport MP has said the Labour Government need to take over running all remaining piers in the country, including Southport’s. The towns Pier has been ‘temporarily’ closed since late 2022 and remains shut to the public in dire need of a refurbishment. People have been told the Pier is too unsafe to walk on and it must remain closed. Southport MP Patrick Hurley said “There are 62 seaside piers in Great Britain, according to data from the National Piers Society. “Many of them – as in Southport – are in a bad structural condition, having been poorly maintained over…
A former Mayor has finally resigned from his seat as a Sefton councillor after a public campaign to remove him from office. Paul Tweed has officially resigned as a councillor after he plead guilty to making indecent images of children. Despite his guilty plea at court taking place in September, news didn’t break of his crimes until last week and he remained a councillor on the local council. Tweed, who represented the Litherland ward, appeared pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent photographs/pseudo-photographs of children at his home between September 9 2020 and May 13 2024. He also pleaded…
A man has been charged with drug offences following a stop search in Southport. Officers from Project Medusa were on patrol along the Promenade in Southport when they noticed a man acting suspiciously by the Marine Lake on Monday 7 October, and following a stop search found suspected Class A drugs and money. Later a further search was carried out and around 80 wraps of suspected crack cocaine and heroin were discovered. Yesterday, Paul Dawson, 54 years, of Derby Road, Southport, was charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply controlled Class A drugs, and obstructing an authorised…
Sefton Council will be using over £2.4 million from the national Household Support Fund (HSF) to support people across the Borough this winter. Recently, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall, announced that between October and the end of March, the Government is providing a further £421 million nationally through the HSF. Sefton Council will receive £2,435,111 in total. The Council is planning on using £80,000 to fund holiday food vouchers for pupils entitled to free school meals as well as making £30,000 available to local foodbanks. ASDA vouchers worth £20,000 will also be available through Family Hubs.…
Two more people have been charged and another arrest made in connection with disorder in Merseyside. Harry Holmes-Moore, 23, of Zetland Street, in Southport, has been charged with violent disorder in Southport. Lukas Allen, 23, of Kirkstone Road North, in Litherland, has been charged with violent disorder, burglary and possession of a controlled class A drug in Southport. Both men have been remanded to appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court this morning, Monday 7 October. A 13-year-old girl from Liverpool has also been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in Walton. She has been bailed pending further enquiries. It’s alleged that…
Do you know this man? Detectives investigating a sexual offence in Birkdale think he may have information to assist. On Sunday 19 May, a woman reported that she had been the victim of a rape by a man at a property in the Birkdale area. Forensic, CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing and we are now issuing the image as part of this extensive work. Detective Constable Samantha Jennings said: “We think the man pictured may be able to help as we move forward with this serious investigation. If you recognise him, please come forward as soon as possible.” Information…
A former Sefton mayor and sitting councillor has been asked to resign after pleading guilty to making indecent images of children. Councillor Paul Tweed, who represents the Litherland ward, appeared in court last week and pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent photographs/pseudo-photographs of children at his home between September 9 2020 and May 13 2024. The news was broken by the Liverpool Echo earlier this afternoon. He also pleaded guilty to possession of indecent photographs/pseudo-photographs of children. The ex Labour councillor has been kicked out of the party but still currently sits as an independent on the Council.…
A scam alert has been issued to businesses who may have been asked to buy tickets for a workshop in Southport. Sefton Council say they have been made aware of a scam whereby local companies are invited to buy tickets for a business event held at the Dunes Leisure Centre. However upon investigation no meeting has been booked in and the council have been quick to distance themselves from organisers ‘National Promotions.’ OTS understands multiple businesses had been cold called to invite them to attend the sessions but only after they had paid via a link to access exclusive tickets.
Dobbie’s staff in Southport have learnt today they will not be one of 17 UK stores closing in a bid to save the business. The Scotland based retailer said the Bentham’s Way garden centre would remain open as one of 60 stores saved from a closure plan. More than 400 staff will lose their jobs at 17 garden centres around the UK. The retailer said they had ceased being profitable. Work is still going on to make sure Dobbie’s Southport remains making money as the chain look to speak with landlords about rent reductions and other cost savings.
Utilities workers are facing an unusual challenge tonight after a water pipe burst in Kew. Jets of water can be seen spewing up from a manhole near to the mini roundabout off Meols Cop retail park The burst pipe is understood to have erupted sometime after 5pm and United Utilities workers have been alerted. The issue is complicated by hugely overgrown trees and brambles, making the pipe difficult to access. An OTS reader, who sent in a photo of the burst mains, joked “it’s a good job B&Q is a few yards away. They’ll get everything they need there to…
A former delivery driver turned pro golfer from Southport is currently tied in fourth at the PGA Championship in Wentworth Matt Baldwin, the former foursomes partner of Tommy Fleetwood, who also worked as a delivery driver for Amazon to fund his rise through the golfing ranks, playing a fantastic game and currently sits tied in fourth place in the tournament. Earlier this week Matt found himself in pole position with eyes set on a mouthwatering £1.15million cash pot. While the lead has now been stolen by American rival Thriston Lance, Matt Baldwin has fought hard and currently sits 17 under…
A Formby resident who has tirelessly campaigned against knife crime for years after the death of her much loved brother is now tipped to win a prestigious Pride Of Britain award. Laura Hughes, who lives in Formby, set up campaign charity kNOw Knife Crime in 2019 on what would have been her brother Colin McGinty’s 40th birthday. Colin was 21 when he was stabbed 15 times in a case of mistaken identity after a night out in Liverpool in 2001. Since the charity was formed, Laura has helped raise over £115,000 for life-saving bleeding control kits and cabinets, and carries…
Pizza giant Dominos is telling everyone who has ordered from their takeaway over the last week to be aware some of their sauces could pose a serious health and safety threat. Anyone with a nut allergy is being warned that both the Dominos Garlic & Herb dip and the Honey & Mustard dip could contain peanuts. Those with a serious nut allergy may have a severe reaction to these sauces and anyone who may have some leftover should throw them away immediately. A Dominos spokesperson said “At Domino’s Pizza, the quality of our products and safety of our customers is…
A police dog that was injured in the Southport riots has been forced to retire, police say. Police Dog Zoe suffered horrific injuries to her leg in the attack when vicious rioters set about attacking police in Sussex Road on July 30th. Zoe and another police dog were both injured and had to be given serious vet treatment for their wounds. While Zoe’s four legged colleague is now back on the streets, police say Zoe no longer has the bite to work. Mersey Police Dogs tweeted: “We are sad to announce that following the violent disorder in Southport, PD (Police…
In a gesture of openness and community integration, the Light Foundation & Southport Islamic Society Mosque is set to host an Open Day and Guided Tour on Sunday, September 15, 2024. This event offers a unique opportunity for people of all faiths and backgrounds to experience the local mosque and meet members of the Muslim community. Event Details Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024 Time: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Location: 102a Sussex Rd, Southport, PR9 0SL The Open Day promises to be an enlightening experience for attendees, featuring: A visual and interactive tour of the mosque Refreshments A question and…
A popular town centre restaurant has shut its doors for the final time. Fuego’s Mexican restaurant on Stanley Street closed with short notice this weekend as the owner declared he made the heartbreaking decision “with a heavy heart.” Owner Ryan Thomson posted: “We’re all devastated & will miss all our customers more than you know! “Decades of great memories have been made & friends for life! ”I want to thank everyone for their support over the years & I hope to see everyone out & about soon! “Your loyalty will never be forgotten! “All my staff over the years have…
Southport actor Kenneth Cope has passed away at the age of 93. Mr Cope, who lived in the town centre, was a well known Film and TV star and recently starred in Coronation Street. A statement from his agent said Cope “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Wednesday, with his wife Renny Liser and family by his side. Hailing him as a “natural comedy actor”, the statement went on to describe him as “a proud native Liverpudlian,” who was “a loyal supporter of Everton Football Club. “ “We are deeply saddened by his passing and ask that his family…
Sefton’s Councillors are expected to pay tribute to the victims of the Hart Street attack this evening, at an extraordinary meeting at Southport Town Hall. Councillors are expected to pass a motion reaffirming the Council’s commitment to the victims, families, and wider community in the wake of the Hart Street tragedy and St Luke’s Road riot. OTS News will live stream the meeting from 5.30pm on our YouTube channel. The meeting is one of two meetings of full council set to take place this evening, with the first dedicated solely for addressing the attack at Hart Street. After a short…
Police have arrested two men and seized suspected drugs, cash and electric bikes following an incident in Southport on Monday, 9 September. At around 4pm, a report was received of two males being seen riding electric bikes down Arnside Road. Both were pursued and detained for a search. Suspected cocaine, cash and two electric bikes were seized. One is believed to have been adapted and the other stolen. A 21-year-old man from Netherton was arrested on suspicion of Possession with intent to supply Class A drugs; Acquire/use/possess criminal property and Handling stolen goods. A 21-year-old man from Litherland was arrested…
A UFC fighter who has just won a challenging fight in America has dedicated his victory to the memory of the three girls killed in the Hart Street tragedy. Nathan Fletcher defeated Octagon rival Zygimantas Ramaska by submission in the second round at UFC Vegas 97 this evening. As he celebrated the win he spoke to interviewers and dedicated the victory to the memory of Alice Aguiar, Elsie Stancombe and Bebe King. Nathan said “I want to say their names. “They will never be forgotten. For their families and everyone affected [by the tragedy] this win is for them. “This…
Hollywood superstar Ian McKellen says he wants to bring his troupe to Southport following the tragedy of July 2024. McKellen told The Times that he wants to take Player Kings, a production of Shakespeare’s Henry IV Parts 1 and 2 which he is starring in at the Noël Coward Theatre to Southport as a message of hope and belief. The Lord of the Rings actor said: “I want to take Player Kings to Southport, and say, ‘Come on, I believe in you, Southport.’ Societies — how do they stay together through periods of upheaval?” The two-time Oscar nominee 85, will…
Improvement works to Southport’s popular Hesketh Park, made possible by a generous bequest are underway. In 2023, Sefton Council was notified of a generous bequest of £850,000 for improvements to the park from long-term neighbours and supporters Louis and Anita Marks. The contract has been signed and sealed with the trustees meaning the Council can start on elements of the work. Since receiving news of the bequest, the Council’s Green Sefton team has been working closely with the Marks family trustees and the Hesketh Park Heritage Group to outline a project plan for works at the park. Improvement works to…
Conservative Group Leader on Sefton Council, Mike Prendergast, is calling on Sefton Council to commit to retaining the 25% sole occupancy Council Tax discount and asking Southport’s Labour MP Patrick Hurley to back the calls, after Angela Rayner refused to commit to keeping it. Mike Prendergast said, “The news that Labour are refusing to commit to keeping the single person discount will be a huge blow for the thousands of people across Southport and Sefton who rely on it. Removing the discount will dramatically increase tax for single person households and there was always the worry with a Labour government…
Tickets are still available for the 2024 British Musical Fireworks Championship in Southport later this month (Friday 20th and Saturday 21st September.) The hard working Tourism team at Sefton Council are busy putting the finishing touches together for the return of the colourful pyrotechnic spectacular at Victoria Park over the two nights. Thousands of fireworks fans will once again be left in awe of the breath-taking pyro-musical displays with three pyrotechnic companies battling it out each night to be crowned champion of the competition. This year the six competitors will have to wow a trio of new judges. Simon Harding…
One of Southport’s oldest independent book sellers has announced its shock sudden closure. Broadhursts Bookshop closes this evening with immediate effect and staff have been made redundant. Anyone who had books on order and had paid deposits is encouraged to get in touch to claim a refund. The shock announcement comes just a matter of months after the passing of the bookstore’s popular owner Laurie Hardman. A spokesperson for Broadhursts said “We are incredibly sad to announce the permanent closure of Broadhursts. “All the booksellers have been made redundant, & the shop will no longer open for trading with immediate…