LIGHTPORT EVENT SOUTHPORT - celebrating the town's "Elegantly Eccentric" identity

Lightport is a brand-new, free immersive light and sound experience that transforms Lord Street in Southport into a 400-metre walk-through "rainbow of colour and creativity". 

Produced by international artists Lucid Creates, the event features a series of interactive light installations, including high-tech lasers, mirrored LEDs, and a towering 10-metre luminous rainbow finale called ARC. 

MORE PICTURES OF THE EVENT...

Lightport serves as the official launch for Southport 2026, a year-long programme of major events celebrating the town's "Elegantly Eccentric" identity. It is funded by Sefton Council and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to boost local tourism and engagement during the winter months.  

The "Elegantly Eccentric" identity was introduced as the core vision for the Southport 2026 cultural programme. The phrase and the surrounding branding were officially launched by a collaboration of local leaders and creative directors: 

Claire McColgan CBE: As the Associate Director of Culture for the Liverpool City Region and Director of Culture Liverpool, she has been a primary spokesperson for the "Elegantly Eccentric" project, describing it as a way to turn the town into something that celebrates its unique, flamboyant history.

Patrick Hurley (MP for Southport): He has strongly endorsed the branding, stating that the "Elegantly Eccentric" vision "captures that spirit [of Southport] perfectly and updates it for the 2020s".

Councillor Marion Atkinson: The Leader of Sefton Council launched the programme alongside McColgan, framing the identity as a tribute to Southport's history of "spectacle and eccentric entertainment".

Dates: Saturday 14th – Monday 16th February 2026.

Time: 5pm – 9pm each evening.

Cost: Completely free; no tickets or booking required.

Route: A 400m trail divided into four zones:

Mermaid Gardens: Immersive illuminated landscape and mirrored LEDs.

Monument Square: Features "Gradients" (layered light sheets) and overhead laser spectacles.

Christ Church Gardens: Pulsing neon light experience.

Town Hall Gardens: The "ARC" finale, a massive walkthrough rainbow made of 7,000 pixels.

Advance UK’s 'Church Spin' video sincerely needs a reality check!

 

Advance UK’s promotional video sincerely needs a reality check. Within this abstract clip we are treated to images of invading Romans being faced off by Celts with a woman at the helm, who is presumably the Iceni Queen Boudicca. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fETi3LxWk78&t=55s

The narrator quips – “Rome arrived but we resisted”.

He however failed to clarify that the Romans and the Celt were at the time Pagans, not Christians.

The image suddenly jumps to the St George Cross flag with lofty claims that the land was ‘forged on Christianity’.

The St. George’s Cross (red cross on a white background) first appeared as an English emblem in the late 12th to 13th century, initially used by soldiers in the Crusades. So, we have suddenly jumped many centuries here and dismissed many essential aspects of our native British Pagan heritage.

The massive Pagan achievements that actually created the British nation were conveniently omitted from this cherry-picking pro-Church political video.  

When the Romans officially invaded and conquered Britain in 43 CE, the country was not Christian. The native Britons practiced Celtic Paganism, and the incoming Romans brought their own polytheistic, state-sponsored Pagan religion. 

Any talk of 'resistance' was undertaken by native Pagan warriors, not Christians, and one great example would be Queen Boudica.

Queen Boudica was the 1st-century Pagan Queen of the Iceni tribe in Britain who led a massive uprising against Roman occupation in 60-61 AD. 

Known as the "Victorious Woman," she has become a lasting British national symbol of our Pagan resistance against oppression, independence, and the defense of our indigenous ways. 

At the end of this clip, we see a list of famous historical figures, including one‘Caractacus’.

Whilst Boudica fought in the 60s AD, Caratacus was the leader of the Catuvellauni tribe who commanded the British resistance against the initial Roman invasion starting in AD 43, fighting for eight years before his capture.

Again, we see that this is a vital part of our PAGAN heritage and resistance!

Anyone who has foolishly fallen for the absurd Christian propaganda in the video seriously needs to consider the following.

Farming and agriculture were invented by Pagans

Military defence was invented by Pagans.

Architecture was invented by Pagans.

Roads were invented by Pagans.

Coinage was invented by Pagans.

The original traders and merchants were Pagans.

Central heating was invented by Pagans.

Clothing and fashion were invented by Pagans.

Art and philosophy were an expression of the earliest Pagans cultures.

Modern religious traditions, festivals and customs were hijacked from Paganism.

Medicine was invented by Pagans.

Writing was invented by Pagans.

Marine travel was invented by Pagans.

Laws were invented by Paganism.

Democracy was a Pagan invention.

Metalwork was invented by Pagans.

Days of the week and months named via Pagans. 

It is wholly wrong, unjust and manipulative for 'any' political group to misrepresent our native Pagan heritage, via promoting the much later imported foreign religion of Christianity as our only true heritage. 

Rewriting the past to rubber stamp biased missionary narrative by one conquering Abrahamic faith system over overs is the highest form of deceit! Such misleading propaganda is unhelpful and holds no connection to authenticity. To be taken seriously, especially within politics, first of all we need to speak the truth. 

Some months ago, Mr Farage of the Reform Party was also guilty of the very same spin, which I highlighted here: 

https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2024/06/no-pastor-farage-you-are-100-wrong.html 

I also note here that whilst the UK is in a state of chaos, thanks to the authoritian blunderings of the current Fabian PM and prior to him the last bungling blue-rinse government, I do actually agree with quite a few of the more commonsense aspects promoted by both Advance UK and Reform. 

Nevertheless, I for one will never permit them to bang the old missionary church drum against our native Pagan heritage, without challenge!  

If they want genuine support from the electorate then first, they must promote truth, not discredited eccleciastical religious spin. I realise that they think they will win over floating lip-service Christians with this 'holier-than-thou' approach, yet houses built on such shaky foundations will sink in due course. 

Britain, like other countries, is originally built on ancient Pagan wisdom. Foreign cults like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are modern eastern imports that have been craftily injected into our native culture, mainly due to shrewd fanancial decisions taken by powerful mind - controllers in high places many centuries ago. 

 

MORE WILD HABITAT AT KEW UNDER THREAT - but who cares about protected species anyway?

 

Major Southport employer submits planning application for huge land development – So it's, ‘BYE BYE’ for more of our wild green spaces…. 

More details on this link. 

https://www.otsnews.co.uk/major-southport-employer-submits-planning-application-for-huge-land-development/ 

An unpopular stance perhaps - yet my sincere sympathy has always resided with the ongoing loss of our precious British Countryside. Wild spaces that are vital to numerous wild animals, birds, and flora etc, always take second place to business profits. 

Above: legally protected species such as the Water vole, exist in and around the Kew area. The region is considered a stronghold for this rare mammal, which is the UK's fastest-declining native mammal. Conservation Status: Although they are often found in this area, they are heavily threatened by habitat loss. Research and surveys by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust have identified the area as a vital location for the remaining population.

Legal Aspects (Water Vole Law)

Protection Level: Included in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, prohibiting acts against the animals and their habitats.

Offences: It is illegal to damage, destroy, or obstruct access to any structure or place used for shelter or protection, and to disturb them while in such a place.

Penalties: Offences can result in fines up to Level 5 on the standard scale and/or up to six months imprisonment per offence.

Development Impacts: If a project (e.g., in Arun Ecology or E3 Ecology) might impact water voles, surveys are necessary to avoid prosecution.

Licensing: If impacts cannot be avoided, a licence from NatureScot or Natural Resources Wales may be required for mitigation, such as displacing them before work starts. 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/water-voles-advice-for-making-planning-decisions 

Big business and cash – hungry councils are expert at getting their own way, which has resulted in the British countryside being decimated everywhere… 

With more land – eating plans afoot at Kew, let’s spare a thought for the local countryside/wildlife habitat that Southport has already lost. 

Here below are a few of the many pages about the wildlife – rich countryside that Southport people have seen vanish into history … 

THE RAPE OF SOUTHPORT’S OLD COUNTRYSIDE 

https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2012/04/rape-of-southports-old-countryside.html

Blowick Moss: RIP our old Southport countryside

 https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2018/11/blowick-moss-rip-our-old-southport.html 

George Drive Woods: The consequences of disloyalty, send in the developers!

 https://www.otsnews.co.uk/consequences-disloyalty-send-developers/#google_vignette 

SAVE SOUTHPORT GREEN BELT 

https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2012/06/save-southport-greenbelt-httpssgb.html 

Lest we forget - the destruction of Kitty's Wood in Ainsdale

 https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2024/04/lest-we-forget-destruction-of-kittys.html 

Sefton’s Ongoing War 'Against' Nature 

https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2023/07/seftons-ongoing-war-against-nature.html 

Our wonderful British countryside under threat

 https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2018/03/our-wonderful-british-countryside-under.html 

BROOKDALE RESOURCE CENTRE goes from strength to strength

 

WHAT IS BROOKDALE RESOURCE CENTRE?

Brookdale, nestled in the heart of Ainsdale, is a unique daycare centre designed exclusively for older adults and individuals with varying stages of dementia. The centre is distinguished by its safe, secure, and stimulating environment, complemented by a beautiful private garden, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. At Brookdale, the team is committed to promoting dignity, independence, and overall well-being. They understand that each individual is unique, and work closely with them and their families to develop personalised care plans that address their specific needs and preferences

Key aspects of Brookdale's approach include: Person-Centered Care: Tailoring services to meet individual needs and preferences. Brookdale believes in the power of therapeutic activities. Attendees engage in a diverse range of activities, including exercise, sensory stimulation, reminiscence therapy, arts and crafts, gardening, and music therapy, ensuring a holistic approach to their care. Community Engagement: Facilitating social interaction and community involvement through outings and local activities. Family Support: Providing guidance, support, and information to family members and caregivers.

By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, Brookdale is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia. The team understands the challenges that families face, and our aim is to provide much-needed respite and support to all our carers.

Brookdale Resource Centre 

Sandbrook Way,
Ainsdale, 

Southport, 

Merseyside,

PR8 3RN.

Direct Dial: 01704 571026
Mobile: 07813394473
Email: salwa.moustafa@ndirections.co.uk

https://ndirections.co.uk/brookdale/ 

Yesterday’s indoor car boot sale at St. John Stone, Woodvale

 

Chilly January winds failed to keep the bargain hunters away from the Woodvale event, which took place on 24 January.

Funds were also raised for the very worthy Cupboard Southport, which is always focused on fighting food waste and promoting sustainable living.

https://www.facebook.com/southportcommunitycupboard/?locale=en_GB

Please surf the following link for more information about our  forthcoming events...

https://southport-crafts-and-events.jimdosite.com/

The mystery of the lost Southport Edwardian medal

 

I recently stumbled upon a worn yet mysterious medal while looking inside a dusty old tin full of my metal detecting finds, from many years ago. 

I vaguely recall that it was unearthed somewhere in the Halsall to Scarisbrick area and probably back in the 1970s. 

I shall let the images within this article and the data below explain this curious matter in more detail...

Sir Charles Scarisbrick was a significant figure in Southport's development; known for extensive land ownership and philanthropy He briefly served as Mayor of Southport from 1901-1902.

He acquired significant tracts of land, including areas where Southport grew, from the Bold and Hesketh families.

Charles also donated £7,000 for the Southport Infirmary (opened 1895), with his German wife Bertha's name on the children's ward.

He was seen as a fairly secluded man from an old Catholic family. He habitually avoided public life despite his wealth and influence.

 The medal that I discovered displays the wording 'Charles Scarisbrick Mayor' and 'Borough of Southport 26 June 1902'. On the other side of the medal, we can see the image of King Edward V11 and Queen Alexanda.

The key to the secret behind this old medal opens up a page in Southport's bygone past...

Back in 1902, like many towns across the UK, Southport was preparing for the scheduled coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. However, the nation's jubilant disposition changed when just two days prior, on June 24, 1902, it was announced that King Edward VII had been diagnosed with appendicitis and required an emergency, life-saving operation.

While major events were hastily cancelled, many smaller celebrations went ahead in some areas, simply because arrangements were too far advanced to cancel, which naturally resulted in a gloomier atmosphere. Moreover, because of the last-minute change, many souvenirs, medals, and programs were produced with the incorrect date of June 26, 1902. Southport was at that time in the midst of the Edwardian era.

It’s amazing that this find from the 1970s produced such a fascinating snapshot in time of the town's history. Nonetheless, how this medal ended up buried in a rural Lancashire area outside of Southport is still an enduring mystery.

My instinct tells me that it may have been dropped by a coronation party goer visiting one of the local Scarisbrick pubs, like the Heatons Bridge or the Saracen’s Head in Halsall.  

Reports also indicated that many celebration parties happened in Lancashire, with at least one in Scarisbrick. This was apparently in the grounds of Scarisbrick Hall, allegedly 2000 people attended, courtesy of the owner Marquis de Casteja.

If you know any more please let me know! 

IN PICTURES: BIRKDALE XMAS INDOOR CAR BOOT SALE

The last event in our 2025 Southport Crafts calendar took place today, at the Red Brick Church in Birkdale. 

Once again, we raised money for Oscar's Appeal, via selling Subway cookies, and The  Cupboard also had a stall. 

More: 

https://www.facebook.com/southportcommunitycupboard/?locale=en_GB 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-oscar-live-laugh-and-fight-brain-cancer? 

https://southport-crafts-and-events.jimdosite.com/

Birkdale Festive Car Boot Sale/Flea Market Indoor

 

Car Boot Sale/Flea Market Indoor - Saturday 20th December 

11.00am to 2.00pm 

Liverpool Road Methodist Church (Red Brick) Liverpool Road, Birkdale, Southport, PR8 4PD.

Xmas lights, winter plants, Xmas wreaths, collectables.  Football Merchandise, Posters, Metal Signs and Stickers. Children's clothing plus more. 

We will be selling freshly baked Subway cookies for Oscar's funding:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-oscar-live-laugh-and-fight-brain-cancer

Also there with a stall is 'The Cupboard', Birkdale. 

Please spread the word, and come along to find that special gift for Yuletide!

Tea, coffee & hot chocolate available to keep out the December chills. 😊

https://southport-crafts-and-events.jimdosite.com/

HOW THE CHURCH IS RIPPING ITSELF APART (AGAIN!)

So, was Tommy Robinson’s latest carol service a lovely and heart-warming example of love, or was it simply another example of blind fundamentalist belief, indoctrinated ignorance, and the common ability to happily accept transparent psychological/religious programming, without question?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP3ZkXy7VkI

As always, no mention/date of WHEN the alleged Jesus figure was supposed to have been born came to light. No surprise there then as no mention of such a date even exists in the Bible.

One has to admit that placing any plausible date of birth onto a newly hatched godman figure, based on earlier heathen mythologies, and cleverly fabricated by a politically - motivated ecclesiastical outreach takes pretty good imagination.

No mention either of how ‘Christ-mass’ was blatantly based on our far older NATIVE Pagan midwinter festivities, but who cares anyway, when you can wave your hands in the air and shout a lot!

Church NOT happy at TR’s latest bible – bashing ploy

The expected negative Church response to TR’s carol event displays yet more hypocrisy from an invasive Abrahamic faith system, that fails to acknowledge its own subversive, invasive, (bible in one hand and sword in t'other) and conversion – oriented origins.

https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2025/12-december/news/uk/we-are-better-than-this-southwark-bishops-say-in-response-to-tommy-robinson-carol-service

Consequently, they give you the option of a more antagonistic Christianity or the other ‘nice,’ all-grinning, liberal- minded version. Basically, these bible-bashing missionaries make it all up as they go along (as always)!

Another example here of the rift, which is of course politically - motivated, yet some cannot recognise this fact...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-RYOfkQCm8 

Their foremost objective is not to push any type of sacred love and light, but to win YOU over to their version of what is supposed to be good and holy, which just happens to support their underlying political narrative too!

HOW THE SO-CALLED ‘FAITH’ IS TEARING ITSELF APART!

https://anglican.ink/2025/12/12/the-tommy-robinson-carol-service-and-the-moment-the-church-of-england-finally-revealed-its-new-religion/

The deep – seated religious programs that reside under various aspects of Christian ideology are coming to light now and showing us all that we have both seemingly nice and nastier versions but that they ALL are rooted not just in dusty old biblical texts but in set political agendas.

All versions of this particular Abrahamic religion are bogus. They all rely upon centuries of shrewd public indoctrination by an ecclesiastical propaganda machine that has proved to be devastatingly effective in mass mind control.

All types push THEIR own limited narrative to promote their political agenda, that lurks beneath their pious facade.

The asserted choices of TR’s more forceful version of Christian faith, or the NICE, happy clappy, ‘arms – open to everyone’ (except TR and his mates) CofE one are both in fact NO choice at all.

‘All’ the Abrahamic faiths are grounded on fictional characters like Moses, Abraham and Jesus, etc. The ongoing propaganda system that supports alleged veracity of these spurious figures is so immense that most people simply cave in and accept the spin given.

Mental delusion, as enforced via these eternally diverse credos, may impress some yet the real answers to life, death and what may come afterwards, exist within us all.

Your insincere politicians push the very same phoney narratives to grab the moral high ground, and YOU fall for it every time – so try thinking outside of the box they have you trapped in.

Grow up world and see through the spin!

More:

 
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS: WHAT THEY WON'T TELL YOU!

https://pat-regan.blogspot.com/2018/12/yuletide-and-winter-solstice.html

IN PICTURES TODAY: BIRKDALE FESTIVE INDOOR CAR BOOT SALE/FLEA MARKET

 

Despite the chilly November winds and showers, buyers arrived at the popular Birkdale event, to hunt out pre-Yuletide bargains.

'Southport Crafts and Events' raised £50.00 for Oscar’s Appeal, via cookie sales. The cookies were kindly donated by Subway. 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-oscar-live-laugh-and-fight-brain-cancer?  

Funds were also raised by ‘The Cupboard’.

https://www.facebook.com/southportcommunitycupboard/?locale=en_GB  

More news on our forthcoming events here:

https://southport-crafts-and-events.jimdosite.com/