LLoyd Grossman asks public to spotlight best of Southport

VISITING the coastal town of Southport conjures up many dreams for a potential tourist, the fair, the history, the people, but tasking the main attractions of the seaside town to put your finger on the essence of it is always a hard task. Until a challenge like local favourite Lloyd Grossman puts the question to the people that live within it. 

It maybe a famous tourist destination gives a sense of pride and hides many a gem waiting to be uncovered. But after traveling the length and breadth of the Northwest the writer and broadcaster has pondered the cultural sense of the town after investigating the NWDA’s tourist campaign for great days out which puts the spotlight on the seaside resort.

LLoyd has long taken a keen interest in Northwest culture, and combines his position as Commissioner for English Heritage with numerous other roles, including Chairman of the Northwest Cultural Consortium. 

Lloyd said:- “The Northwest has a growing international reputation for being culturally rich and diverse, with a growing list of world class attractions.

But what we really want to know is what the people of Southport think visitors should visit. It may be something that you feel particularly proud of, or something that does not get the recognition it deserves. Either way, we want to know!”

LLoyd concludes:- “By putting this to the people of Southport, we hope to spotlight the attractions that the community really love, whilst seeking-out and highlighting some new and exciting destinations as well.”

WORLD CUP KICKS OFF IN LIVERPOOL

MORE than 2,000 footballers have descended on the city to compete in the UK's biggest international youth football tournament.

And this year the 10th annual Liverpool, Knowsley International Youth Soccer Tournament is even bigger. A record total of 25 International teams from as far as the USA, China, Saudi Arabia and Europe plus 100 Merseyside based teams are competing.

As in previous years Liverpool's twin cities, Shanghai, Cologne and Dublin participated as part of the city's cultural exchange programme.

During the week the players were be treated to Liverpool FC and Everton FC stadium tours, a trip on the Mersey ferry, a tour of the Albert Dock and Museums, a pre-season fixture at Bolton v Oldham, an International "Bowling" event and a trip to Blackpool.

Councillor Warren Bradley, Liverpool's Executive Member for Leisure and Culture, said:- ''This is a great chance for fans to see emerging talent from around the world, in the World In One City. Who knows the next Pele or Rooney may be playing. The tournament is an asset to our sporting calendar and a fantastic opportunity to develop international relations. I'm sure it will be highly competitive and will generate a great atmosphere.''

The tournament has seven age categories for boys and four for girls from Under-18's to Under 11's. All games are played at the University of Liverpool Geoffrey Hughes (Wyncote) sports ground on Mather Avenue in Allerton, South Liverpool. 

Last games start at 6pm. Semi-finals will be played on Saturday, July 31. Finals on Sunday, August 1.

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