Southport Local Briefing — 3 September 2026

Appeal to find next of kin of John Hyland, 88, in Southport

An appeal is seeking John Hyland’s next of kin following his death at Lakeside View nursing home in Southport. Mr Hyland, aged 88 and formerly from Liverpool, may have relatives in the Merseyside area. His death is not being treated as suspicious. Information can be emailed to [email protected].

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£10m Hospitality Grant Scheme opens to support pubs and cafés

A new three-year fund is inviting applications from village pubs, family-run restaurants and neighbourhood cafés. Support can help launch businesses, reopen vacant premises, provide training and diversify community venues. More than £3 million is earmarked for Pub is The Hub, with applications being received from the end of September.

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Southport FC to visit Spalding United for first time on Saturday

Southport FC travels to Spalding United on Saturday, September 5, for a 3pm National League North fixture at Sir Halley Stewart Field. It will be the first meeting between the clubs and Southport’s third straight away match on an artificial surface. Advance tickets are available through Spalding United.

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£4 Vue tickets available across all films and seats this weekend

Vue Southport is offering £4 tickets for every film and seat on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6, as part of National Cinema Weekend. The programme includes blockbusters, family films, horror and classic titles, with Ultra Lux seating also available. Film times can be checked online or through the app.

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Shaun the Sheep among 21 names on 2026/27 storm list

The 2026/27 storm-naming season includes 21 possible names, with Shaun the Sheep among the selections. Names are used when storms are expected to bring medium or high impacts across the UK, Ireland or the Netherlands. The season runs until August 31, 2027, helping forecasts and warnings provide a clear reference point.

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HMRC reminds vaping businesses to prepare for £2.20 duty from October

HMRC is reminding vaping businesses to prepare for a new £2.20-per-10ml duty and duty-stamp scheme starting October 1. Manufacturers, importers and warehousekeepers need approval, while retailers and wholesalers should check supplies meet the rules. Existing eligible unstamped stock can be sold until March 31, 2027, under transitional arrangements.

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