Eye on Southport
Southport local briefing: fire investigation, community voices and autumn wildlife
Here’s your warm local roundup, with important updates on emergency services, Sefton communities, countryside celebrations, transport planning and seasonal wildlife.
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Four people die after early-morning house fire in Bootle
Four people died after firefighters attended a severe blaze at a semi-detached property on Stone Square, Bootle, shortly before 4am on Tuesday. One casualty was taken to hospital with burns. Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and Merseyside Police are jointly investigating the cause.
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CPRE marks 100th birthday with Ainsdale celebration and new memorial panel
CPRE celebrated its centenary at Ainsdale Discovery Centre with the Mayor of Sefton, supporters and local residents. A permanent panel was unveiled in memory of Formby countryside campaigner Dr Desmond Brennan. The charity also highlighted a proposed coastal connection to the LCR Ringway and called for volunteers.
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Government urged to prepare now for a nationwide IPTV switchover
techUK is urging Government to plan early for moving television services from aerial-based digital terrestrial transmission to internet delivery. It supports a practical transition by 2034, provided viewers retain free access, choice and familiar features, while vulnerable households receive help with connectivity, devices and digital skills.
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Woman and three children die in Bootle house fire
A woman and three children died after firefighters found four casualties in an upstairs bedroom during a major blaze in Bootle. Another casualty suffered burns and was taken to hospital. Fire crews, Merseyside Police and ambulance specialists are working together to establish how the incident started.
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Birmingham New Street to close to trains over Christmas 2026
No trains will serve Birmingham New Street from 24 to 28 December 2026 while engineers replace ageing overhead power equipment. The station building, shops and facilities will remain open, but passengers may need replacement buses or local services. Timetables and travel advice are expected from early October.
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Council seeks more LGBTQIA+ responses to shape Sefton services
Sefton Council is seeking more responses from LGBTQIA+ people who live, work, study or socialise locally. The five-to-ten-minute survey covers belonging, safety, community participation, services, wellbeing and gaps in provision. Responses will inform public health planning and inclusive services, with submissions open until Wednesday 30 September.
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Goosefest celebrates the spectacular arrival of pink-footed geese
WWT Martin Mere is welcoming pink-footed geese travelling from Iceland and eastern Greenland, with some flocks numbering up to 40,000. The reserve offers roosting water and nearby feeding grounds. Goosefest runs until 18 October, featuring guided walks, counting workshops, late openings and a birdwatching festival.
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