Southport local briefing — 5 September 2026

Households urged to build emergency food supplies as weather risks grow

Households are being encouraged to keep several days’ supply of food and water in case extreme weather disrupts power or water. The warning follows National Audit Office concerns about risks to the food supply chain, including storms, cyber-attacks and disease outbreaks. A government campaign is expected to offer further preparedness advice.

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Passengers urged to avoid rail travel during Sunday bridge removal near Watford

Passengers are advised to avoid rail travel until 4pm on Sunday 20 September while Network Rail removes the unsafe Oxhey Grange footbridge near Watford. All West Coast Main Line tracks and the adjacent Lioness line will close, with replacement buses and alternative routes available. Journeys will take longer than usual.

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Mersey and West Lancashire NHS Trust to hold annual meeting online

Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust will hold its Annual General Meeting online through Microsoft Teams at noon on Tuesday 29 September. The Trust’s 2025/26 Annual Reports and Accounts will be presented. People wishing to attend must register by email, while written questions should be submitted by Friday 18 September.

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New rules cap branded school uniform items for pupils

New rules limit schools to three branded uniform items for primary pupils and four for secondary pupils, closing loopholes involving optional items and sports kit. Schools will be expected to consider payment plans and review supplier contracts. The wider support package includes expanded free school meals, childcare hours and breakfast clubs.

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Tributes paid to three-time Sefton Mayor Maureen Fearn

Sefton Council has paid tribute to former Mayor Maureen Fearn, who has died. Flags at council buildings are being flown at half mast. Mrs Fearn served Kew Ward residents from 1983 to 2016 and was Mayor of Sefton three times, in 1989/90, 2010/11 and 2013/14.

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Eligible people can book flu jabs through GPs, pharmacies and the NHS

Flu vaccinations are available from GPs and participating pharmacies for eligible groups including pregnant women and children. Appointments can be booked online, through the NHS app or by calling 119. People aged 65 and over, adults in clinical risk groups, carers and others will become eligible from October, alongside people experiencing homelessness.

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