WLLR's Teddy Bears' Outing this Sunday
Report by Philip Pacey.

THE West Lancashire Light Railway (WLLR) will be holding its Annual Teddy Bears' Outing, from Station Road, Hesketh Bank (PR4 6SP). The railway is Lancashire's only working narrow gauge track and if you go down to see it, on Sunday, 22 May 2016, you're sure of a big surprise. The event runs from 11.30am to 4.30pm, with 2 locomotives in steam, on certain days, along with the bare necessities, other attractions including model railways will keep visitors of all ages amused. Also keep a look out for the teddy bear train spotters! The railway is located in the village of Hesketh Bank, between Southport and Preston and runs steam trains on Sundays and Bank Holidays between April and October. Admission is free to most events and there is free car parking on site. If travelling by bus, the Stagecoach No. 2 to Preston from Southport stops at the entrance to the Railway, near Booths and also collects at that location as well. If you ride on 1 of the trains, and go into the woods, as it's the Teddy Bears' Outing on Sunday, the WLLR will have a:- "Bring a bear – travel ½ price" offer taking place. The normal costs are:- adult tickets are:- £4.00. Child's tickets are:- £3.00 and Senior tickets are just:- £3.50. You can also get a Family Ticket for £12.00. But do not forget that its half price for all persons accompanied by a bear for this event! It's worth noting that they also hold many other special event days, including:- galas, Halloween Trips and Santa Specials, throughout the year. Hot and cold snacks are available on and off site, should you require sustenance when on your excursion. Plus the grounds have picnic tables that will let you sit and watch the trains go by, but beware of bears this Sunday! Yogi Bear has been spotted on holiday from Jellystone Park, in the USA... Unlike Yogi, we are told that Boo-Boo will be staying out of trouble, as normal. If you see Yogi Bear, please let Ranger John Francis Smith. For more information please call:- 01772 815881.

Fact file:- Did you know that the soft toy, known as a teddy bear, derived its name from that of President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt in the early 20th century, by toymakers Morris Michtom in the US? Oddly a similar toy was being developed at the same time by a designer Richard Steiff, in Germany!

Local Café - Little Lilac is ready for summer

IF you are in Formby and you require a break from the daily grind or if you are passing through the Village to or from the beach, pop in to this amazing Café. With homemade food, cakes and also their very own blended coffee, this venue provides a fantastic place to put your feet up and relax. Also, as an added bonus, after a lot of hard work by the owners, who have now been able to put seating outside, for you to relax in the Sun and watch the world go by. The venue is ideal for parents who have kids at the Pool next door as well. But the thing that makes them even more special is the fact the staff are always friendly and helpful, no matter the age of the client, be it a kid or an OAP, they will always have a smile. This is one of the hidden gems of Formby Village and one of many local shops that are worth exploring this summer. Please remember, if you visit the beach, pop in and help support the local businesses in the Village as well. You never know who you might meet as many famous people use these cafés and shops as well!