'Father Christmas Needs a Wee' book signing!
Photographs by Patrick Trollope

IF you want a book to fill a hole in a Christmas stocking, look no more!!! 'Father Christmas Needs a Wee' is just the thing for young children. The simple story tells the reader about Father Christmas and what happens when he visits each different house having drinks and eats all the goodies left out for him. Yep, it is not long before he really needs a wee!!! This very festive and funny children's book was illustrated and written by Nicholas Allan, who is also the one behind this years hit book "Queen's Knickers". This acclaimed acclaimed author-illustrator was in Formby and explained all about the background to fans about his charming, hilariously funny and genuinely affectionate picture books. We court up with him on 12 December 2012 at Formby Books  and snapped these photos of him and 2 of his fans.

If you want a signed copy for Christmas, Formby Books, who are presently located at Derbyshire's Department Stores in Formby (L37 4DU) pop in quick as they have a few left!

Ferns, Fairies and Fairy Lights in the Fernery
Report and photographs by L Trollope

AS I hoped, I returned to Fairyland, in Southport's Botanic Gardens, last Friday night, 7 December 2012 and it was as pleasing as I had expected. Please see last week's edition for details. Here are a few photos of the visit which may give you a hint of the mysterious atmosphere. Do experience this unusual Christmas event for yourselves.  Opening times 10am to 3.30pm until Christmas Eve and also 4.30pm to 6pm on Fridays. There is also a Christmas plant sale, raffle, and 2 competitions for the children.