Eye on Southport
Southport Local Briefing — 19 August 2026
Here’s the latest from Southport, including transport updates, local events, sport and Sefton’s growing visitor economy.
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Disabled people to gain round-the-clock free bus travel nationwide
From 1 April 2027, eligible disabled people across England will be able to use their bus passes free at any time, removing current weekday restrictions. The change is backed by £60 million and is intended to improve access to work, education, training, healthcare and other opportunities.
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2026 Southport Flower Show to open at Victoria Park on August 20
Southport Flower Show returns to Victoria Park from Thursday 20 August to Sunday 23 August, featuring floral displays, show gardens, exhibitors, shopping and family entertainment. The event runs from 10am to 6pm daily, closing at 5pm Sunday, with television presenters and chefs appearing throughout the weekend.
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Police 101 set for AI overhaul to free handlers for urgent calls
A new AI system will help route 101 callers to the correct organisation before they join a police queue. Piloted by 15 forces, it aims to reduce delays caused by misdirected, nuisance and prank calls, while safeguards allow callers to reject the system’s understanding or speak directly to handlers.
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Southport trains recovering after signalling problems at Liverpool Central
Merseyrail Northern line services, including routes to and from Southport, were disrupted on Tuesday after signalling problems at Liverpool Central. Trains were returning to normal, although some services could still be cancelled or delayed while the timetable recovered. The disruption was expected to continue until 5.15pm.
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Southport drawn away to Garstang in Lancashire Challenge Trophy
Southport will open its Lancashire Challenge Trophy campaign away against Garstang on Wednesday 23 September, with a 7.45pm kick-off at Riverside. The clubs last met in the competition during the 2018-19 season, when Southport won 3-1 away and went on to lift the trophy.
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Nearly 7.8 million people visited Sefton in 2025
Sefton welcomed 7.79 million visitors in 2025, up 3.1%, while the visitor economy grew 5% to £716.9 million. More than seven million day visits were recorded, alongside approximately 760,000 staying visitors. Tourism supported an estimated 6,160 jobs across the borough, highlighting its economic importance.
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