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News Report Page 5 of 25
Publication Date:-
2026-09-20
   
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Liverpool welcomes senior Shandong delegation to strengthen trade and investment links

LIVERPOOL has welcomed a 50 strong senior Government and business delegation from China's Shandong Province as the City looks to strengthen international trade, investment and innovation partnerships.

The visit, led by Sun Ximin, Vice Governor of Shandong Province, brings together leaders from government, academia and industry, including more than:- 30 senior executives from some of Shandong's leading companies, for a programme focused on:- life sciences, maritime industries, logistics, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure investment opportunities.

The delegation met on:- Thursday, 10 September 2026, with representatives from:- Liverpool City Council, Liverpool City Region partners, Universities and businesses during a series of discussions and networking events at the:- Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre.

Councillor Nick Small, Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, said:- "Liverpool has always been an outward looking City built on international connections, trade and innovation. We are delighted to welcome Vice Governor Sun and the Shandong delegation to Liverpool and to showcase the malong termny strengths that make our City an attractive place to invest, collaborate and do business. Shandong is 1 of China's leading economic Regions and there is significant potential for both sides to deepen cooperation in areas such as:- life sciences, advanced manufacturing, maritime industries, logistics and innovation. This visit provides an important opportunity to build on existing relationships, create new connections and identify opportunities that can deliver long term economic benefits for Liverpool, Shandong and our respective business communities."

A key event during the visit was the:- Shandong Liverpool Industrial Cooperation Dialogue, where senior representatives from both Regions explored opportunities for collaboration across sectors including:- life sciences, pharmaceuticals, maritime innovation, ports and logistics, inward investment and clean growth.

The University of Liverpool and Shandong 1st Medical University (SDFMU) have set up a Joint:- Research Lab, on:- Adverse Drug Reactions, generating over £2 million in research funding.  In addition:- 30 to 50 medical students from:- SDFMU study at the:- University of Liverpool each year, starting in 2025.

Liverpool and Shandong already share a number of important commercial links in:- port, logistics, sports and advanced manufacturing. The visit reflects the growing economic relationship between:- Liverpool and Shandong and provides a platform to identify new opportunities for trade, innovation and inward investment that can support economic growth in both Regions.

The visit forms part of Liverpool's wider international engagement programme and supports ongoing efforts to attract investment, boost trade and strengthen global partnerships that can support economic growth across the City Region.



Heswall Fish and Chip Shop Wins Big at Top National Awards

THERE are celebrations in Heswall after local favourite Pisces has scooped 2 big awards, with owner Cos Michael being crowned:- 'Best Fish & Chips Fryer' in the UK at the prestigious:- 'English Fish & Chips Awards 2026.' Meanwhile, the takeaway won:- 'Best Fish & Chip Shop in the North West.'

The remarkable achievement caps off an unforgettable awards season for the multi award winning Wirral takeaway, which is now celebrating 2 of the top awards possible in the industry. The latest success cements Pisces' reputation as not just 1 of the best chippies in the Region, but 1 of Britain's finest.

For Cos, who has spent his entire life in the fish and chip industry, the recognition is the culmination of decades of dedication to perfecting the nation's favourite takeaway.
Cos Michael said:- "It's an incredible honour. This isn't just a personal award; it's recognition for our amazing team, our loyal customers and my family, who have devoted their lives to the fish and chip industry."

Although Cos has been involved in Pisces since 2004, his roots in the industry stretch back much further. Born into 1 of the North West's best-known fish and chip families, he has grown up around fryers, learning the craft from a young age. For decades, the Michael family has operated successful fish and chip shops across the Region and that experience is reflected in every portion served at Pisces.

The English Fish & Chip Awards are regarded as 1 of the industry's top awards and is yet another for the Heswall shop, having won a few during the past few years. Over recent years, Pisces has consistently been recognised among Britain's elite fish and chip businesses, including:-

  • Winner of Best Fish & Chip Shop in the North West 2026.

  • Cos Michael crowned Best Fish & Chips Fryer in the UK 2026.

  • Ranked among the Top 3 Most Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Fish & Chip Shops in the UK.

  • Named in the Top 20 and Top 40 Best Fish & Chip Shops in the UK.

  • Awarded the prestigious Blue Ribbon quality accreditation on multiple occasions.

  • Consistently achieving Environmental Health Elite Status.

Having served the Heswall community for 27 years, Pisces has become much more than a local takeaway. Today, around:- 2,000 orders leave Pisces every week, with deliveries made across the Wirral and visitors travelling from far and wide to sample its award winning fish and chips. Its reputation has also attracted a host of famous faces over the years, with footballers and celebrities regularly stopping by.

Despite its national success, Pisces has never lost sight of its local roots. Over the years, the business has raised tens of thousands of pounds for:- local charities, Schools, sports clubs and community causes, making it 1 of Heswall's most generous independent businesses. For Cos, supporting the local community has always been just as important as serving great food.

Cos summarises:- "Winning both the UK's top frying accolade and the Regional shop title is a huge achievement for both Pisces and the Wirral. The awards recognise not only exceptional cooking, but also sustainability, consistency, innovation and outstanding customer service. It's due to hard work and our customers we are where we are today and we will continue to give back to our community as a thank you."


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