The Leader of Wirral Council, Councillor Paul Stuart, said: “As Wirral’s year as Borough of Culture draws to a close, we wanted to go out with something unforgettable for everyone to enjoy. We’re inviting everyone of all ages and abilities, families with younger or older children and visitors to New Brighton. Everyone will enjoy an evening with a mysterious monster and all the attractions and hospitality available in our iconic seaside town of New Brighton.”

Named back in 1207 by Sir Percival Montangle, Monty the Mersey Monster is said to have enjoyed centuries of slumber in the deep waters around the peninsula. However, after a number of unconfirmed sightings, the fiery monster is said to have made its way back to New Brighton, where brave swimmers from Friends of the Marine Lake will lead the search at 6.00pm each evening.

World-renowned outdoor arts organisation Walk the Plank has been commissioned to deliver the event following their success in curating activities around the visit of Gaia – the huge earth installation – which attracted around 33,000 visitors to Birkenhead Park over three days in May.

Walk the Plank’s Senior Producer, Bev Ayre said: “We are so pleased to be involved in another huge Wirral Borough of Culture event and I can’t think of a better time to undertake the search for a mysterious fiery monster than Halloween weekend.”

The event is funded by the Metro Mayor for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s 1% for culture initiative and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Councillor Mike Wharton, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Business, Investment and Trade at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority said:
“Wirral has enjoyed a successful Borough of Culture year which has been celebrated by people from across the Liverpool City Region. 

“We are in a unique position to experience the vast cultural contribution the area has to offer, and it’s fantastic to see so much participation in these activities attracting visitors and putting our city region on the map.

“As Halloween draws near, what better way to draw such a successful year to a close than a monstrous search for Monty!”

The search for the Mersey Monster will take place around New Brighton Marine Lake on Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd November, with three chances to get a glimpse of Monty each evening at 5.30 to 6.00pm, 7.00 to 7.30pm and 8.30 to 9pm. 

Updates on the event and how you can make the most of your visit to New Brighton will be posted on Wirral Council’s social media channels and on the Visit Wirral website at visitwirral.com/monty in the coming weeks.

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The lucky winner of the Omaze Million Pound House Draw on the Wirral will get the keys to a contemporary, five-bedroom house complete with spectacular coastal views, a cinema room and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

The property comes mortgage-free, with all stamp duty and legal fees covered. The winner is also given a whopping £250,000 in cash, to help them settle in, and can decide to either live in the house, rent it out for a supplementary income or sell it whenever they wish to become a cash multimillionaire. 

If the winner decides to keep the luxurious property, the £250,000 would enable them to run the house for over an estimated ten years.

If they decide to rent it out, local estate agents estimate that the property could achieve a long-term rental value of £8,000 per month.

The spectacular house sits in a prominent location on the edge of the sandstone outcrop of the Wirral Peninsula bringing the surrounding countryside inside the property in a magnificent example of modern architecture and design.

The exclusive, elevated plot provides stunning views from the wraparound terrace of the nearby estuary and the Irish Sea – as well as being just a short stroll away from Caldy Beach.

The 4,750 square foot property, which was nominated for the RIBA Mansell house of the year, combines elements of America’s West Coast, mid-century modern homes, in an original composition that perfectly compliments the surrounding landscape.  

The ground floor has a welcoming entrance hall, a state-of-art cinema room, double bedroom with an en suite shower and toilet, boot room, laundry room and a double garage. 

A feature staircase leads to the first floor, where there is a spacious, bespoke kitchen complete with quartz worktops, a breakfast island, integrated Gaggenau double oven with gas hobs by Bertazzoni. It also features a Fisher and Paykel Fridge and a sink fitted with a Quooker tap.

The first floor also provides an open plan living and dining space, featuring a show-stopping sunken sofa—ideal for the winner to entertain family and friends. The generous main bedroom with en suite is also on the floor, along with three further double bedrooms, an office and a family bathroom.

The extensive private gardens have manicured lawns and mature Caldy trees. The large entertaining terraces, full width balconies, outdoor kitchen and heated swimming pool create an unrivalled outdoor living space. 

The property is surrounded by over ten acres of National Trust Woodland, with footpaths available for the winner to enjoy right outside the gates.

Thurstaston Beach, Heswall and Parkgate salt marshes on the banks of the River Dee are all enjoyable options just a short stroll away. 

Caldy Golf Club is also in close proximity, with Heswall and Royal Liverpool Golf Club, home of The Open in 2023, close by too. With more golf courses per capita on the Wirral than anywhere else in the UK, the property is ideally placed for any golf enthusiast.

West Kirby is within easy reach on foot through the woods, along the beach or along Caldy Road. There are ample shops, pubs, cafés and eateries to discover in the area.

As well as making its Grand Prize Winner a multimillionaire, the Omaze Million Pound House Draw, the Wirral, will raise money for Scouts.

Scouts is the UK’s largest youth movement, inspiring nearly half a million young people to step up, speak up and gain skills for life.

Much of Scouts’ work is in areas of deprivation, with the fewest opportunities for young people. Being part of Scouts helps young people aged 4-24 feel good about themselves, make friends and dream big.  

The money raised from the partnership with Omaze will fund Scouts to open new groups in local communities, especially low-income areas, helping young people of every background believe in themselves and find their place in the world. 

It will also support young people in their early years (in Squirrels Scouts) as they start out on their journey through Scouts.

The Omaze partnership is backed by TV presenter and Chief Ambassador of World Scouting, Bear Grylls OBE.

Bear said: “I’m thrilled that Scouts is partnering with Omaze for its latest house draw. Childhood doesn’t last forever, that’s why we have to make it count. For over 115 years, we’ve given millions of young people of all genders and backgrounds the great start they need in life.

“Thanks to more than 140,000 adult volunteers, we help young people across the UK try new things and discover their talents. Some of these have gone on to become Olympians, prime ministers and even astronauts. Millions of others have given back to the world in other ways, helping create a stronger, closer society. 

“We’re proud that Scouts brings people together across fragmented communities. We believe young people have a right to adventure, to kindness and the opportunity to thrive. But we can only do that with more funding. 

“That’s why the support of everyone who takes part in the Omaze Million Pound House Draw is so important. The money raised will help to open doors of opportunity for many more young people.  Every young person deserves every chance, and together we can inspire a generation to dream big.”

Omaze has guaranteed Scouts a minimum donation of £1 million from the partnership.

James Oakes, Chief International Officer at Omaze, said: “Everyone at Omaze is honoured to be partnering with Scouts for our latest house draw.

“By offering this stunning house on the Wirral, along with £250,000 in cash, Omaze gives people the chance to win a life-changing prize, whilst also raising money for charities.

“The eventual winner is free to decide what they want to do with the house, they can move in and not have to worry about any costs thanks to the £250,000 settling in money, or they can rent it out as an additional income or sell up and cash in to become a multimillionaire – the choice is entirely theirs!”

He added: “Our charity partners get introduced to vast new audiences that they wouldn’t otherwise reach. We’re extremely proud that the Omaze Community has raised over £60 million for good causes across the UK.” 

There is also an additional £100,000 cash prize up for grabs in the Monthly Subscriber Cash Draw, for Omaze subscribers spending £20 or more. Subscribers are also eligible to enter the Subscriber Exclusive Safari Flash Draw, for the chance to win All Omaze entrants are in with the chance to win Small Prizes throughout the Draw.

Draw entries for the Omaze Million Pound House Draw, the Wirral, are available now at omaze.co.uk. The Draw closes on Sunday 24th November for online entries and Tuesday 26th November 2024 for postal entries.

Draw entries for the Omaze Million Pound House Draw, Devon, are also available at omaze.co.uk. The Draw closes on Sunday 27th October for online entries and Tuesday 29th October 2024 for postal entries. 

Entrants can also choose to subscribe to Omaze to be automatically entered into every new Grand Prize Draw when their subscription renews on the first of each month. Omaze subscribers receive four times the number of entries compared to non-subscribers and can cancel their subscription at any time. 

For full terms and conditions, see www.omaze.co.uk. No purchase necessary to enter. Over 18s and UK residents only. 

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The team began the challenge at Ben Nevis at 6:20 AM on Saturday and, after trekking over 28 miles and battling both harsh conditions and logistical setbacks, finished at Snowdon by 12:30 PM on Sunday. Despite being delayed on Hardknott Pass for three hours, and assisting in a mountain rescue, they completed the walking element in just under 14 hours, with all participants safely finishing.

The funds raised from this event will go towards cancer charities, food banks, and other local good causes, staying true to Team DDB’s mission of supporting those in need across Wirral and Merseyside. The event has also pushed Team DDB’s overall fundraising total to £165,000 since the community interest company (CIC) was founded.

Danny de Brabander, who passed away from terminal bowel cancer on 9th October 2023, co-founded Team DDB to raise awareness about bowel cancer and provide acts of kindness to those struggling in the community. His legacy of kindness and giving continues to inspire, with future challenges already in the works.

Karl Roberts and Neil Whiteside organised the challenge for Team DDB. Karl, said:
“As we reflect on Danny’s passing one year on, it’s heartening to see his vision and legacy continue through Team DDB. The overwhelming support we’ve received for the Three Peaks Challenge is a huge testament to Danny’s legacy and the passion of everyone involved and we’re determined to keep making a positive impact in Danny’s name.”

Neil Whiteside added: “While our knees and feet are still sore from this year’s trek, we’re already making plans for next year’s challenge. Team DDB will continue to carry Danny’s legacy forward into 2025 and beyond, ensuring we keep raising awareness and supporting those who need it most.”

With the National Three Peaks Challenge behind them, Team DDB is looking forward to future events that will continue to honour Danny’s memory and make a positive impact in the community. To donate, please visit Just Giving: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/TeamDDB3peakschallenge

For more information or to support Team DDB, please visit www.teamddb.co.uk

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The Lawns Grill Restaurant, is set within the four-star Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa.  With its stylish interior, crystal chandeliers and views over beautifully manicured lawns, it’s the perfect spot for an intimate dining experience. The last time we reviewed the restaurant was 2017 and with a new head chef in place – Connor O’Hagan, who has designed a notable menu with a strong emphasis on high grade, quality and local ingredients, we couldn’t wait to revisit.

On arrival, we were welcomed by restaurant manager Jake and seated at our table overlooking the gardens. A freshly baked selection of interesting house breads were presented with house whipped butters: Chilli, Seaweed and Herb, all house cultured. 

Starters: Chicken Liver Parfait with cherry, bee pollen, sourdough, smoked truffle butter. A pretty dish, delicate, smooth and edible wild flowers. Colourful and thoughtful.

Let the main’s commence:  we ordered Turbot cooked over charcoal served with scallop, seafood braisage, foraged sea herbs, courgette and cauliflower puree. Beautiful presentation. We were particularly impressed by this dish. Outstanding. 

Wirralstone Tamworth Pork served with morcilla, Campania pepper, chicory and faggot. The pork was wonderfully tender and the attention to detail was impressive. 

Salt Marsh Lamb – Lamb belly, greenage plums and grelot onions. The lamb was a show stopper. A divine piece of lamb with a perfect balance of flavours. 

Dark Chocolate mousse – cherry, honey, white chocolate. Rich and velvety, complemented by the acidity of the cherry sorbet.

Our final dish was Worcester Berry Cheesecake – Italian meringue with Worcester berry ice cream. Fantastic! 

We then made our way to the Terrace to finish our drinks. The Terrace is just outside the Lounge and offers all the appeal of Al Fresco dining whilst still being hidden from the elements indoors.

You can dine, enjoy both classic and creative cocktails, or treat yourself to Afternoon Tea whilst overlooking the stunning grounds and countryside beyond. You can also enjoy 2-4-1 cocktails everyday 1-5pm and live music. 

Overall, an exceptional dining experience awaits at The Lawns Grill. The service here is impeccable. Beautiful surroundings, extensive wine list. Delicious and considered menus. 

Chef Connor O’Hagan is a very talented and one to watch.

Five Stars! 

Given the outstanding culinary calibre, the menu was surprisingly very reasonably priced. 

Booking is advisable. Call, 0151 336 3938

www.thorntonhallhotel.com

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1. It was on October 22nd 1934 that the first cremations took place at the new crematorium within Landican cemetery, with the first burial following the next day – October 23rd 1934 and since then, more than 200,000 cremations and 56,000 burials have taken place up to September 2024. Check out some more interesting facts about the site below…

2. ‘Landican’ was recorded in the Doomsday Book of 1085 as Landechene (meaning, ‘Church made of Oak’). The name possibly derives from the Welsh ‘Llan Diacon’ (church of the deacon) although, as Landican had no chapel, the ‘church made of wood’ possibly also refers to the neighbouring area, Woodchurch.

3. The St. Mary’s section of the cemetery contains human remains and memorials controversially relocated to Landican in the late 1950s from the grounds of St. Mary’s Church on the site of Birkenhead Priory due to the expansion of the adjacent Cammell Laird shipyard.

4. One of the most celebrated local people laid to rest at Landican Cemetery is the legendary William Ralph (Dixie) Dean. Born in Birkenhead in 1907, Dean began his career at Tranmere Rovers, finding the net 27 times in 30 appearances for his hometown club. It was while at Everton, however, that he cemented his place in football history scoring a record 60 league goals in one season in 1927-28. WR Dean passed away in March 1980 at Goodison Park aged 73. His funeral took place at St. James’ Church in Birkenhead – a bullet-header away from where was born on Laird Street – before a cremation at Landican.

5. With its open environment, birds of prey have made Landican their home. The cat-like “kee-yaa” call of a Buzzard is regularly heard as it soars over the cemetery or rests in one of the trees there.  You may even be lucky enough to see the male buzzard perform their ‘roller coaster’ mating display during the spring, where it soars up high and then swoops down over and over again to attract a mate.

Landican is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2024 with its first-ever Open Day where residents can informally meet some of the people involved in the funeral industry locally and get a rare glimpse behind the scenes at Wirral’s busiest cemetery.

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Wirral Life magazine has been celebrating the best of the local lifestyle for the last eight years and has been championing the businesses and individuals who make the local area such a vibrant place to live, work and visit. The awards are a celebration of the inspirational people and businesses in our area; and gives public recognition. The last awards attracted hundreds of entries and the awards ceremony sold out with nearly 800 guests attending.

Let HQ has confirmed as Headline Sponsor for the awards this year. Simon Skinner at Let HQ, said “With a population of around 350,000 residents, surrounded by 25 miles of stunning coastline, the Wirral is a creative powerhouse of hardworking and talented individuals. Let HQ, UK provider of Tenant Referencing and Specialist insurance services to the UK rental sector are delighted to partner with the Wirral Life Awards 2024 as this year’s headline sponsor. We look forward to championing the very best in local talent from around the borough.”

Nicky Rigby Smith and Si Hall, Editors at Wirral Life Magazine said: “We are delighted to announce the Wirral Life Awards are taking place again this year. The Awards are an opportunity for individuals and businesses to be publicly recognised. At the last awards, we had entrants from 8 year olds through to 80 year olds – the awards are open to everyone! 

“Entry to the awards is free and the process is straightforward. You can either enter yourself/business to the awards or you can enter a person/business that you think should be awarded. We look forwarding to receiving your entries.”

Also announced as category sponsors are Wirral Chamber of Commerce, The Brain Charity and Claire House. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. 

The awards will take place on November 22^nd 2024 at The Titanic Hotel, Liverpool and will be attended by hundreds of influential people that shape the lifestyle of the Wirral, Liverpool and Chester region.

Entries are now open. To enter online: visit www.wirrallifeawards.co.uk

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Performances will take place across multiple venues, including the organiser’s ‘home’ base at Future Yard on Argyle Street, as well as neighbouring sites, with Birkenhead Town Hall as the main stage, the new Joy building on the corner of Hamilton Square, and Make Hamilton on Argyle Street, which will become the festival hub.

Craig Pennington, the co-founder and chief executive of Future Yard CIC, said:

We’ve always believed that music can change lives – and our area – for the better. And with local talent nurtured through our programmes being showcased alongside internationally renowned artists, and all supported by a team that includes our Sound Check trainees, Future Now will show how music is making a real difference to local people and our town.

Councillor Ann Ainsworth, Vice Chair of Wirral’s Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee, said: 

Music will always attract and inspire people, which is why Future Now is such an important part of our Borough of Culture programme. If you are interested in new music, Birkenhead really is the place to be this Bank Holiday weekend!

Headlining the Town Hall stage on Saturday are alternative pop/rock act Everything Everything, with the multi-talented Nadine Shah closing the show in the venue on Sunday. Both headliners have released new albums this year which have received glowing praise in the press and will attract new audiences to Birkenhead. Nubiyan Twist return to Future Yard to headline their Garden stage on Saturday and Birkenhead’s-own She Drew The Gun headlines outdoors on Sunday.

They join a line-up of Future Yard favourites old and new including Jane Weaver, bdrmm, Hamish Hawk, The Lovely Eggs and Girl Ray. 

Recent local additions to the festival bill include, Alright (okay), Blck Utah, Bright Town, Cheery, Claire Welles and Cothel.

You can find out more about those performing in the artist spotlight.

Future Yard was behind the original festival, which was part of Wirral’s Borough of Culture celebrations in 2019. You can view some of the highlights on youtube: Future Yard 2019 Highlights.

Future Now Festival takes place in Birkenhead on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th August 2024.

Weekend and Day tickets are available online at  https://futurenow.futureyard.org.

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The Tower Ballroom in New Brighton was The Beatles’ second most played venue in the UK after the Cavern Club, so the festival will also explore the town’s historical links to the band.

There will be music, art and movies, in an exciting programme delivered by New Brighton Coastal Community Team and local businesses.

You can enjoy the following:

• Floral Pavilion and Fort Perch Rock will be hosting a full programme of events on Saturday 24th and you can also catch a Choral Flash Mob performing Beatles classics at the Mermaid opposite the Floral.
• The Light Cinema will be showing Ron Howard’s fascinating documentary ‘The Beatles: Eight Days at Week’ on Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 1.40pm.
• You’ll be saying yeah, yeah, yeah as musicians and bands play all your favourite Beatles and Merseybeat hits in the Rockpoint Leisure Bars in the Victoria Quarter on Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th. 
• Mersey Arts Zone at the Floral will be showing its ‘All you Need is Love’ exhibition from 5pm on Friday.
• Local historian David Hearn will give a talk titled ‘The Cultural and Social Revolution that was The Beatles’ at Oakland Gallery, Victoria Road, on Saturday at 1pm.
• Twist and shout to two of the greatest bands the UK has ever seen at ‘The Beatles vs The Stones’ at Floral Pavilion on Friday night, 7.30pm (tickets £29).

The post Beatlemania to hit New Brighton this weekend appeared first on Wirral Life Magazine.

As well as inspiring and entertaining audiences, the festival aims to tell local stories and nurture Wirral’s magnificent acting and writing talent. 

We are confident that it has something to suit almost every taste – from family shows with a local flavour, to quirky comedy, and thought-provoking drama – and with no tickets costing more than £12, we have made a huge effort to keep it as affordable as possible.

Shows will run throughout the afternoon and evening on 28, 29 and 30 August, and are expected to last up to 60 minutes each.

Councillor Ann Ainsworth, Vice Chair of Wirral’s Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee, said:

Wirral people have made an incredible contribution to the world of theatre over the decades, and it is wonderful to see a new generation showcasing their work on a local stage.

Whether you are a regular theatregoer or looking for something affordable to keep the children entertained during the holiday, please come along and show your support for the festival and all those taking part.

The festival programme includes:

Wednesday 28 August

1.00pm Big Bunny & the Powers of Fort Perch Rock Do you have what it takes to defeat the mystical powers of Fort Perch Rock? Join Big Bunny & the gang in this fun-filled family adventure!

2.45pm We’ll Meet Again A family story of a young girl evacuated from Liverpool during World War II. We see her adventures and troubles in Wrexham whilst also learning about what life was like back in the city with letters home to her dad.

4.30pm The Seagull in the Attic / Remember When This is a double-bill:
The Seagull in the Attic – A woman who finds solace in the unlikely company of a Seagull.
Remember When – A comical look at an ordinary couple on a walk, putting the world to rights and reminiscing on what they consider better times. 

6.00pm Hairy B A play about self-love, self-loathing – and how bloody expensive razors are.

7.00pm I Am Purple – When you are shamed from a young age, you start to believe what they say about you. And then who’s the enemy? Is it still them? Or is it you!?

8.00pm The Comedy With A Censored Title  – An autobiographical one woman comedy investigating the wonders and pitfalls of growing up in the thick of America’s Bible Belt.

9.00pm Cal and the Big C – A comedy of navigating the byways of life when the worst happens, the absurdities, tears and triumphs of facing down an unseen enemy. What happens when real life comes crashing in, uninvited and invasive? Call in Edwardian drag performer Hetty King to help of course!

Thursday 29 August

1.00pm The Wirral Monster  and all is going well. There are marshmallows and Maltesers, and monster stories to tell. But more and more as things get strange and their favourite things are plundered; could there be some truth to these tall tales, could there be, we wonder…

2.45pm TRAPPED (in Williamson Art Gallery) A group of friends think it’ll be a great idea to hide in the gallery and sleepover. After dodging security and the building being locked down the friends begin to explore. Darkness soon gets the better of them, and they decide to tell some tales to keep themselves from being scared. Will they survive the night, and more importantly, will they set off all the alarms?

4.30pm Ukrainian Kaleidoscope – A celebration of Ukrainian Culture. This is a free ticketed event, but donations will be gratefully received with a portion going to a Ukrainian charity.

5.30pm Spin the Imperfect – Staring into the abyss…how low would you go to save you career?

7.15pm The Reunion Polly is on her way to a reunion at the Floral Pavilion. After being cut up by another driver, they find themselves stranded by the roadside. With deep references to Jane Eyre can these two lost souls, reconnect from a love they thought they once had. 

9.00pm Date Night Jenna feels trapped, James feels lost, Sonny needs a break and Sheila just wants to be loved. When all these worlds collide, mayhem ensues. These four people were never meant to meet, but fate brought them all together. Date Night is all about love, betrayal, joy, meatballs, but most of all… the need to just communicate!
 

Friday 30 August

2.45pm Spooky Tales Your favourite tale could be your worst nightmare… It’s never too early to start the Halloween Frights. This is a great story but is aimed at 10 years and over!

4.30pm Stage-Ed West End Holiday Camp Highlights Highlights from the Stage-ed West End Holiday Camp at the Floral Pavilion. Featuring West End smash hits, a section from Blood Brothers, and a Comedy Sketch written by the performers. This is a free ticketed event, but donations will be gratefully received to be reinvested into the festival for next year.

5.30pm The Appointment You know how it is when you look in the mirror and you know you have to do something. It was 1955 and he was living his best life. He loved the glamour, and he loved helping women. If you look better you feel better. He never thought he could make things worse, or that there’d be no happy ending.

7.15pm Tangled Roots Can love bloom amongst so many dangerous thorns in this Elizabethan Drama set in Bidston Hall? The right to succession is in question, and an Earldom is at stake. In the midst of this, there is a quiet love to be found in a timeless act of service. History will say they were roommates. This play is based on true events.

9.00pm The Island 25 years ago, a small group of scientists sealed themselves away on a mysterious Island – together you will embark on your voyage to The Island.

Ticket prices are capped at just £12 (£8.50 for concessions), with further reductions available for family tickets and multiple bookings.

For more information visit the Wirral Theatre Festival website and the Floral Pavilion website.

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A network of 80 holiday clubs across Wirral are offering a wide range of activities to keep children and young people active, engaged, and well-fed over the summer break.

Councillor Chris Carubia, Vice-Chair of Wirral Council’s Children, Young People and Education Committee, said: “We all remember looking forward to breaking up for the long summer holiday, but the novelty soon wore off after a few weeks if you weren’t kept occupied. Which is why the holiday programme – and its fantastic range of activities – is so well received by young people, who return time and time again.

“This year, several new clubs will be joining the programme for the first time, which means even more activities to try out and enjoy. As well as an ever-popular range of sports, including football, swimming, roller skating, and skateboarding, there are lots of arts and crafts sessions, cooking classes, fun science, digital wizards, photography, and author visits. 

“Older children can also try their hand at hair and beauty, with one club offering a special behind-the-scenes trip to the Lush Spa in Liverpool – their largest store in the world – to learn more about the industry.”

The programme is coordinated for Wirral Council by the Community Interest Company, Edsential and funding for the scheme has been provided by the Department for Education.

The Easter holiday programme saw more than 3,300 local young people and their families benefitting from the enriching activities and the nutritious daily meals provided, with parents complementing the lovely staff’ and how they were ‘brilliant with kids’.

Heather Lewis, the Programme Manager for HAF, expressed her excitement, stating: The HAF programme is thrilled to offer an exhilarating array of activities this summer for children and young people in Wirral. Our aim is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment for them to explore, learn, and forge new friendships. We’re proud to be part of an initiative that empowers children and young people to thrive and reach their full potential. The HAF programme is set to provide an unforgettable summer for young people aged 5 to 16 years old in receipt of free school meals. For more information the programme, including how to find and apply for a place, visit the Edsential website.

Parents and carers are encouraged to check if their child is eligible for free school meals as it could enable them to take part in this and future holiday programmes and unlock a range of other support. 

More information about free school meals is posted on the Wirral Council website. 

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