Liverpool gears up to host charity bike ride Nightrider next month

NIGHTRIDER is gearing up to showcase Liverpool's famous landmarks and legendary musical heritage during a special year for the City. #Liverpool2018 is putting the City on the world stage by hosting a year long series of events to celebrate a decade since it was chosen as the European Capital of Culture. The charity night ride returns for the 3rd time, on 14 July to 15 July 2018, by popular demand. Nightrider is different to many other fundraising events... It's not timed, it's not a race and everyone taking part can support any charity. Together participants are aiming to raise ₤140,000 in one night. Many local causes will benefit including Alder Hey Children's Charity, Claire House Children's Hospice and Wirral Mencap, as well as national organisations like Alzheimer's Society and British Heart Foundation. There's just a few days left to sign up, registration closes on Sunday 1 July.

Nightrider is a route of 2 halves: the Wirral loop and the Liverpool loop. There are 2 distances to choose from:- 50km (choose the Wirral loop or the Liverpool loop) or 100km (both loops) so there is something for everyone, from novice riders to more experienced cyclists. The event starts at Pier Head and sets off through the Mersey Tunnel, which is closed to other traffic, to the scenic Wirral Peninsula. Highlights include:- the Royal Liverpool Golf Club, West Kirby and Port Sunlight, with spectacular views across the Mersey to the City's iconic skyline. The Liverpool Loop 2 takes in more renowned sights:- Albert Docks, Echo Arena, Empire Theatre, Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, Aintree Racecourse, Knotty Ash, Anfield Stadium and Goodison Park; as well as many hidden gems.

Nightrider offers the chance to have fun, get active and enjoy a Saturday night out with a difference, while doing something positive. The event is popular with friends and family, plus there are corporate packages available so it's an ideal team building event for companies. Colin Flinn took part in Liverpool Nightrider 2017 for the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. He said:- "Excellent route with friendly organisers and participants, and plenty to see (in the dark!) to help while away the miles."

Nightrider is organised by leading charity tour operator Classic Challenge. Each loop is clearly sign-posted so that Nightriders can cycle at their own pace. There are break stops every 25km plus medical support and mechanical backup are provided throughout the night. Everyone receives a well earned breakfast and medal at the finish line. The event is supported by Cycle Republic (mechanical partner) and Virgin Money Giving (official fundraising partner). Nightrider events have also taken place in London and Glasgow in 2018.

The challenge is open to anyone aged 18+ of average fitness who is prepared to train beforehand. There are two ways to take part: Charity Place - Pay ₤39 registration fee then raise ₤175* minimum sponsorship for a Nightrider charity partner. Own Place - Pay ₤99 full event cost then raise as much sponsorship money as possible for any charity. For more information and to sign up visit:- NightRider.Org.UK.  * Exact amount set by each charity.

SonFest Southport Music Festival Returns for its 5th Year

FREE live music festival takes centre stage, at SonFest (Southport Music Festival) for its 5th year, at King's Gardens, on the Promenade, Saturday, 14 July 2018, at King's Gardens 11am to 6pm.  Set within King's Gardens, across from the Royal Clifton Hotel, SonFest Southport will be presenting and hosting an entire day, that carries encouraging and positive messages for all ages. In addition to the free live music, there will be a giant marquee providing free activities for children, including:- craft making, interactive games and a huge 50ft inflatable football pitch provided by:- 'Good Sport' and 'The Southport and Area Schools' Worker Trust.'

Beginning at 11am, bands will take the stage and deliver a variety of styles of music, including pop, gospel, jazz and country. Headlining this year's free festival is one of the UK's brightest talents; acclaimed British singer songwriter Philippa Hanna. Since her debut release in 2007, Hanna has appeared as Special Guest for a number of artists, including:- Lionel Richie, Little Mix, Wet Wet Wet and Leona Lewis. Her songs and stories are captivating audiences around the globe.

Local favourite Vernon Fuller of Twin Frets, a past performer at the Southport Jazz Festival, returns for his 5th year, bringing a lively, soul stirring vibe with Marvin Gaye and Curtis Mayfield hits. Thanks to a partnership with:- Fill The Gap Concerts, Liberty Worship Collective, joins us from Virgina's Liberty University in America. Gospel collective Voices Beyond, from Manchester, will also be performing, along with Southport based youth band Amplified.

SonFest Southport was created 5 years ago to share a message of hope and inspiration to all people by presenting uplifting, positive live music. "It is my personal belief that music can change lives; especially when the music is filled with messages of love, hope and acceptance. It is our aim that everyone who attends SonFest Southport will leave feeling better than when they came; that a real sense of encouragement and hope will be poured into them!"  affirms Tina Powsey, event founder and director.

With the forecast on track to be a day filled with sunshine, pack your picnic blanket, your kids and your dancing shoes and head down to King's Gardens, on Saturday, 14 July 2018.

SonFest Southport is run entirely by volunteers and is sponsored by Fill the Gap Concerts of High Point, North Carolina. Funding is provided by the generous gifts of individuals, area residents, business leaders and churches. Volunteers are still needed. To express your interest, please register online.