News reports located on this page = 3.

Free fireworks event to be "better than ever"

THE annual free Lakeside Bonfire and Fireworks display, which takes place on Saturday, 2 November 2019, promises to be bigger and better than ever. Along with a hog roast by Graham Eyes, a sweet station and toasted marshmallows, there will be other refreshments and donkey rides! Organiser Simon Rigby said:- "This is our 3rd bonfire and fireworks display and we're really excited to be providing this free fun family event for the community." It runs between 5pm and 7pm, at Lakeside Church, Fairway. For more information go to:- LakesideChurch.UK.

Southport teenager wins prestigious musical theatre scholarship

SOUTHPORT teenager Isabella Wiggett has won a prominent musical theatre scholarship worth ₤2,500 at LMA, the performing arts, media and music institute co-owned by Robbie Williams. The 16 year old competed earlier this year against hundreds of other young performers in a bid for the coveted placement, as part of a ₤250,000 scholarship fund. The annual programme, which was launched in 2018 to mark LMA's 10 year Anniversary, offers the chance for 14 to 19 year olds to hone their skills with a team of experienced, industry renowned tutors. Isabella won the chance to study Musical Theatre at LMA, after she wowed the judges with her rendition of 'Popular' from 'Wicked,' landing her 1 of just 100 spaces on the programme. The scholarship programme includes expert industry training every Saturday, with specialists from the field sharing with students the professional work ethic, training and etiquette that is required to work within the sector. Following her success, Isabella said:- "I have wanted a career on stage from an early age. This scholarship means that I can now focus on creating a future in musical theatre."

Principal Simon Wallace; who founded LMA with his brother, Richard, said:- "It's an incredible opportunity for Isabella and we are very excited to have her on board. Our students are offered some amazing experiences to work with the best in the business, from recently sharing a stage with the original cast of FAME to competing on The X Factor and many more. We're very proud of our family culture. It's something we instil in both students and tutors and we're looking forward to welcoming all of our successful performers into the family."

For further information about visit the LMA's website.

Decking the City's Halls

IT'S only October, but 2 of Liverpool's iconic buildings are already getting into the festive spirit. This is the line up for both St George's Hall and Liverpool Town Hall who have unveiled their exciting Christmas programmes, which aim to entertain the whole family. Deputy Mayor and Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said:- "The Christmas events at both St George's Hall and the Town Hall have built up a strong following over the last few years. Not only are visitors enjoying some fantastic festive entertainment, but they're doing so in the surroundings of 2 of the City's most iconic buildings. This varied programme is perfect for families who want to get into the Christmas spirit, and also brings in valuable income which is invested in the costs of running these listed buildings."

The events are as follows:-

Event 1. Christmas Market. This event takes pace at St George's Hall, running from 15 November to 23 December 2019, free entry. This event will be taking over the plateau, the popular market makes its return, with a focus this year on food and drink. Foodies will love the offer, including the Yorkshire Pudding Wrap stall which was a huge success last year. Those after a festive tipple can choose between the Tepee or Windmill Bar or the Gin Tin, and don't forget the ski lodge and its karaoke cable cars. The market will be complete with beautiful festoon lighting and vintage fairground rides for the kids to enjoy.

Event 2. Elf Adventure Challenge, takes place at St George's Hall from 30 November to 24 December 2019, prices from ₤5.50 to ₤13.50. Santa's elves need some help this Christmas. Families are encouraged to join in the fun and complete toy making and sleigh loading challenges, and enjoy some music and storytelling. This 50 minute interactive experience aimed at 2 to 10 year olds and their grown ups. Early booking is advised as this event is already proving popular. Helen Nurse from Wonder Adventures, which is responsible for the Elf Adventure Challenge, said:- "We are so excited to bring The Elf Adventure Challenge to St George's Hall this year. Being able to use the unique and atmospheric space in St George's will be an amazing setting in which to deliver the fun, festive Elf challenges to children and their grown ups. Our team of Elves are passionate about providing an interactive experience that engages and challenges children. It is a perfect event for active, imaginative children who love Christmas, and the magical memories that time together as a family at this time of year creates. Children can expect to learn about all the important aspects of being a Christmas Elf, and we hope that the children take away the Elf ways with them - Live with Joy, Talk with Cheer, Act with Fun, Live your Idea."

► Event 3. Carols by Lantern Light, also at St George's Hall, running from 6pm, on 8 December 2019, tickets are ₤13.75... Set in the stunning surroundings of the Great Hall, Mezzo soprano Danielle Thomas will join organist Professor Ian Tracey and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Chamber Choir, in a magical night. With performances of classics such as:- Of Holy Night and Silent Night taking place in the glow of 100 lanterns, this event has a festive spirit guarantee!

► Event 4. Luna Winter Cinema runs from 17 December to 23 December 2019, at St George's Hall, prices range from ₤6.50 to ₤13. The ultimate festive cinema experience returns to the Hall after its hugely successful inaugural year in 2018. It's a Wonderful Life, The Greatest Showman, Home Alone and Love Actually are just some of the films which will be screened. Refreshments will be on offer at the bar, including mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies.

► Event 5. Story Time with Santa, runs from 7 December to 24 December 2019, at the City of Liverpool Town Hall... Father Christmas will take some time out of his hectic schedule and will join Buddy the Elf in sharing magical stories and songs in front of a cosy log fire. Lasting 45 minutes, 2 adults can attend free of charge with each child. Booking is recommended as a limited number of children can take part in each session. Tickets are:- ₤16.25 per child.

For full details of all the events and to book tickets head to either the St George's Hall website or the Liverpool Town Hall website.

Did you know that the Halls cost the City Council ₤2million a year to operate, so all money raised from the Christmas programme of events will be invested back into these iconic Grade I listed buildings, to preserve and protect them for future generations to enjoy?