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News Report Page 2 of 25
Publication Date:-
2026-06-04
   
News reports located on this page = 2.

Discover the Art of Leather Craft at the:- 'Society of Master Saddlers Brings Taster Days' in Southport

THE Society of Master Saddlers is bringing its popular:- 'Leather Craft Taster Day' to Saddlers Den, Southport on:- Sunday 14 June 2026 and Saturday, 18 July 2026. This is a rare opportunity for local people to experience the ancient craft of saddlery and leather working first-hand, guided by 1 of the country's most respected practitioners.

Whether you're considering a career change, or someone curious about the craft, these 1 day sessions offer an inspiring and hands-on introduction to the world of leather work.

On the day opens with an introduction to leather, where it comes from, how it's selected and graded, and the tools and techniques that define the saddler's trade. From there it's straight into practical work: every participant will make a raised shaped keyring and a hand-stitched leather coaster to take home. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed. The day closes with an open conversation about career pathways in saddlery; a chance to ask questions and explore where the craft might take you.

Participants leave not just with a pair of handmade keepsakes, but with a genuine feel for the precision and pride that goes into every piece of quality leatherwork.

The event will be led by:- Gabrielle Mitchley, a Qualified Saddler, Harness Maker, and Saddle Fitter based in Wigan.

She started her apprenticeship with Chris Taylor at Saddlers Den in 2020 after completing a summers worth of work experience in 2019. Gabrielle is also a 2024 QEST Scholar and is now on the QEST Youth Ambassador Board. As well as teaching the basics of leatherwork, Gabrielle is an incredibly skilled leather carver and is in the perfect position to not only deliver this Taster Day, but also give first-hand knowledge of getting into the industry and help you plan your next steps for further training and discuss the different pathways.

Recap of event details:-

  • Date:- Sunday, 14 June 2026 and Saturday, 18 July 2026
     

  • Time:- 9am to 4pm.
     

  • Location:- Saddlers Den, 60 Norwood Ave, Southport, Merseyside, PR97EQ.
     

  • Host:- Gabrielle Mitchley, Qualified Saddler.
     

  • Places:- Limited, early booking strongly recommended.
     

  • Cost:- All materials included.
     

  • Book at:- MasterSaddlers.Co.UK.


Patrick Hurley calls on schools and community groups to sign up for UK Parliament Week 2026

PATRICK Hurley MP is encouraging schools, youth groups and community organisations across Southport and the Northern Parishes to sign up for UK Parliament Week 2026 and help inspire the next generation to engage with democracy.

UK Parliament Week (UKPW) is Parliament's annual event to raise awareness of what Parliament is, what it does, and how people can get involved. Following a record breaking year in 2025, organisers are aiming to make UK Parliament Week 2026 the biggest yet.

This year's UK Parliament Week will take place from:- 23 November to 29 November 2026. Everyone who signs up will receive a free activity kit packed with resources, including:- tailored booklets, a pop up ballot box, banners, stickers and a unique Petitions Pursuit board game to help run activities.

Last year, more than 2.8 million people took part in over 20,000 activities across the UK, with 40 Schools and community organisations signing up for activities just in Southport.

At Banks St Stephen's Primary School, pupils established a School parliament in partnership with the wider Banks community, featuring a student-led House of Commons and an adult-led House of Lords. Pupils also had the opportunity to visit the Palace of Westminster and watch a parliamentary debate.

Patrick Hurley also attended informative Q and A sessions, at:- Norwood, Holy Family, and Hesketh with Becconsall All Saints primary schools.

Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the Northern Parishes
, said:- "Last year I had the opportunity to visit several schools across the constituency and was incredibly impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement shown by young people. Students weren't just learning about Parliament and democracy, they were asking thoughtful questions about issues that affect their lives, from national policy debates to local matters here in Southport and the Northern Parishes. Helping young people understand how decisions are made and how they can make their voices heard is incredibly important. I would encourage schools, youth groups and community organisations across our area to sign up and take part in UK Parliament Week 2026."

Schools, youth groups and community organisations can sign up for UK Parliament Week and receive a free activity kit by visiting:- UKPW26 to sign up.

What are your thoughts on this news topic? Email our Newsroom at:- News24@SouthportReporter.Com or send us a message on:- Mastodon, Facebook, or Twitter. Please do let us know as we love to hear your views....

 
      
 
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