Choose Local this Christmas

WE’RE a hardy bunch in Southport!

Just as preparations were under way for this year’s Southport Christmas Lights Switch-On, the worst weather for months struck.

Strong winds, showers, hailstorms... we had everything except fire and brimstone.

Others might have packed away, gone home and put their feet up – but not in Southport.

The organisers, Southport BID, and their many volunteers were frozen, but determined not to be frozen out.

Huge credit to the thousands of people who braved the weather to come and enjoy great acts including The Overtones, Yes Lad and Gwen Dickey.

Later on in the afternoon – thankfully – the bad weather cleared a little, and it was great to see Lord Street packed with families having a great time and welcoming in this year’s festive season in style.

And that’s exactly what we want to see now – Southport packed every day in the run-up to Christmas.

Southport’s giant Christmas tree in the town hall gardens is now lit up, as are more than a million lights in the town centre trees.

The BID is funding free parking after 3pm on the late night shopping days planned for Thursdays December 1, 8 and 15.

We have some magnificent shops, bars, restaurants and hotels in Southport. They are run by and staffed by local people, so money you spend this Christmas is supporting our local economy, supporting local people.

Whether you’re shopping or enjoying a festive night out over the coming weeks – let’s all make it Southport this Christmas.