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Enjoy our beaches safely this summer – joint plea for visitors to be respectful at Sefton’s coast

19 July 2021
Martin Driver
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Categories: Front Page, Green Sefton, Health, Latest News

A number of organisations across Sefton are joining forces once again this summer to ensure local communities, and visitors from across the North West, can enjoy Sefton’s coastlines safely as coronavirus restrictions ease further.

Take personal responsibility at the coast

The joint action also aims to encourage people to take personal responsibility at the coast. Asking them to plan how they are going to get to the beach, to take all litter home with them and to show respect and kindness to staff, the environment and fellow visitors.

It also sets out the boundaries of what is and isn’t acceptable at the coast to keep everyone safe. Such as that fires and BBQs are not allowed anywhere; that there are water safety risks at the coast so people should follow the advice of lifeguards; and that anti-social behaviour simply isn’t acceptable.

Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership

The agencies who make up the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership are making the joint plea and will be sharing important messages covering many of the issues faced on the Sefton coast throughout the school summer holidays.

Members of the partnership include Sefton Council, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue, National Trust Formby, Natural England, the RNLI and other key partners like Merseyrail.

Already this year there has been a huge influx of visitors to local beaches during fine weather and out of school term times. It is anticipated that with people still planning staycations this year, many will be looking to enjoy spending time at the Sefton coast.

Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said: “First and foremost, the Sefton Coast is an internationally protected nature reserve and we need your help to keep it that way. So, when people are planning their day trips this summer, we need them to be well prepared and to play their own vital role in ensuring that the coast remains a great place to enjoy spending time.

“Please listen to what we are collectively saying with our partners, be that important water safety information, fire risk concerns, travel advice or environmental issues around litter and wildlife.”

Covid-19 still with us

While outdoor spaces are safer for people to spend time and interact with others this summer, the easing of restrictions should still be met with continued caution as Sefton’s Public Health lead outlined last week.  

Margaret Jones, Sefton Council’s Director of Public Health said: â€œCOVID-19 continues to be with us in Sefton and that presence will continue after Monday 19th July but if we all continue to take the precautions that could protect ourselves and others, we can carefully continue down the path back to normality.”

Meanwhile the Council’s Green Sefton team and its partners have important messages for all beach visitors this summer season.

All need to be responsible and considerate

Mark Shaw, Green Sefton Service Manager, at Crosby beach
Mark Shaw, Green Sefton Service Manager, at Crosby beach

Mark Shaw, Sefton Council’s Green Sefton Service Manager, said: “We are ready and well prepared to welcome people back to our beaches safely again this summer, but we ask in return that they behave responsibly and with consideration to each other, local residents, our staff and our beautiful environment.

“Joining forces once more with fellow land owners and emergency services means that we are doing our bit to keep everyone safe and create a positive atmosphere for those choosing to come to our beaches. But our visitors themselves really are the other key players in this partnership.”

Sefton Community Police Superintendent Graeme Robson said: “This summer, officers will be on foot, in vehicles and on quad bikes across the Sefton coastline and at local beauty spots. We know we’re lucky to have this on our doorstep and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it.

“Anyone acting antisocially or drinking alcohol at our beaches will be dealt with by police in a robust manner. Please plan visits carefully and give attention when parking by considering local residents. It’s also vital that we protect the local environment by not starting fires and by taking any litter home with us.”

Protect precious wildlife and habitats

Beach safety banner at Ainsdale
Beach safety banner at Ainsdale

Amy Peacock, Property Operations Manager at National Trust Formby, said: “This summer we’re here to welcome people who love to visit Formby, whilst caring for all the wonderful wildlife at this special nature haven.

“On busy days our car parks can fill up quickly. We close our car parks to visitors once they are full to help us make sure that Formby is a safe environment for everyone who visits us. We recommend that visitors to Formby beat the queues and travel by train, or perhaps plan their visit for a quieter day. We’re open seven days a week all year round.

“Together we can create an enjoyable experience for everyone and protect precious wildlife by being mindful of nature and the people around us.”

Dave Mercer, Senior Reserve Manager for Natural England, said: “The Sefton coast is an amazing place to visit and one of the most important areas in the country for wildlife; it is home to many rare plants and insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and many species of birds.

“Please bear this in mind when you visit this summer and follow the countryside code by keeping dogs under control, taking litter home and refraining from lighting fires and BBQs. If you can visit on foot, by bike or train to reduce the number of cars, especially in hot weather, that will be a great help as will following advice from the emergency services and site staff who are here to help you safely enjoy the beach, dunes and pinewoods and if you are lucky, see some of the wildlife that lives here.”

Water safety

Close up of new water safety signage at Crosby beach
Close up of new water safety signage at Crosby beach

Michael Buratti, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for HM Coastguard, said: “Even though the weather is warming up, please take extra care before taking a plunge in the sea as it can still be chilly and bring on cold water shock.

“It also pays to check the wind, weather and tides before setting out and observe local safety advice such as avoiding soft patches of mud on the beach, ensuring dogs are on leads, going to a lifeguarded beach where possible and carrying a fully-charged mobile phone, so you’re able to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if anyone is in trouble.”

Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead in the North West, said: “Our advice is to visit a lifeguarded beach where possible and to swim between the red and yellow flags. RNLI lifeguards offer advice on how to stay safe and help anyone who gets into trouble. Whether you’re at a lifeguarded beach or not, look out for safety signage and seek advice on safe places to swim, always keep your children under supervision and avoid swimming alone where possible.

“Coastal areas provide a great opportunity to enjoy fresh air and open space, but they can be an unpredictable environment, particularly during early summer when air temperatures start warming up, but water temperatures remain very cold, increasing the risk of cold-water shock.”

Other ways to travel to the beach – not just by car

Suzanne Grant, Commercial Director at Merseyrail, said: “During the summer months we see a large influx of passengers travelling on our network to beauty spots such as Formby beach and we do all that we can to keep passengers safe including running six-car trains wherever possible.

“By working with our partners in the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership we want to ensure that everyone visiting the coast can enjoy it safely and responsibly.

“This includes being respectful of passengers and staff while travelling. So please listen to our staff who will issue advice where needed and be on-hand to deal with any concerns you have, ensuring you have a wonderful day out.”

People can follow the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership agencies Twitter accounts for more advice, news and videos throughout the summer: @SeftonCouncil @MerseyFire @MerseyPolice @RNLI @MCA_media @BTPMersey @NaturalEngland @NTFormby @Merseyrail

The continued work of the partnership will also be communicated through the Council’s My Sefton website, Sefton Council’s Facebook page  and on Instagram Sefton_Council.

Freedom of Sefton Borough for NHS Trusts

16 July 2021
Amy Hitchmough
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Health, Latest News, Sefton Council

Sefton Council last night confirmed it is awarding the Honorary Freedom of the Borough to Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Southport and Ormskirk NHS Trust, as well as Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust.

At a meeting of Full Council last night, the decision was made to recognise the four Trusts and all their staff formally, for their hard work and dedication during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Freedom of the Borough is the highest ceremonial honour the local authority can bestow and a permanent record of the Borough’s endless appreciation and debt of gratitude to the Trusts will now be formalised.

An Extra-ordinary meeting of council will be organised to officially grant the Freedom of the Borough, when Covid 19 restrictions will allow. In addition, a civic reception will be planned for officers of the Trusts and their invited guests.

Organistions receiving Freedom of the Borough gain the ‘right, privilege, honour and distinction of marching through the streets of the Borough on all ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating and bayonets fixed’.

Cllr Ian Maher, Sefton Council Leader said: “The Trusts and all of their staff have served the Borough and wider city region tirelessly throughout the pandemic, putting themselves at risk in ensuring the safety of others.

“That selflessness and dedication cannot be underestimated, which is why the Council are awarding NHS staff at all levels within the Trusts the Honorary Freedom of the Borough.”

Neil Masom OBE, the chair of Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust said: “This is a tremendous honour for the tireless and often challenging work of colleagues during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Every one of them is on the frontline in one way or another whether they are in a clinical, support or administrative role. We all work as one team and one family, ensuring we deliver the best possible care for those in need.”

Fiona Taylor, Chief Officer at South Sefton and Southport and Formby CCGs said: “This is a huge honour for NHS colleagues working in our local hospitals, recognising the risks and challenges many of them faced in dealing with the human tragedy of this pandemic. We’re proud, alongside our general practices, community and mental health providers, to support them in continuing to care for our communities and keeping us all safe.”

Dame Jo Williams, Chair of Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and Louise Shepherd, Chief Executive of Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are hugely honoured to be recognised and to have been awarded the Freedom of the Borough from Sefton Council. It is fantastic recognition for our staff and colleagues who have worked tirelessly and bravely during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Alder Hey is privileged to play a vital role in supporting the health of children in Sefton and around the world. This would not be possible without the support we receive from children and families around the Borough and from our friends and partners in the Local Authority and other agencies.”

Joe Rafferty CBE, Chief Executive of Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Like all other NHS organisations, the COVID-19 pandemic presented huge challenges for Mersey Care and I see this honour as recognition for everyone who have worked so hard during some of the most difficult times in the history of the NHS.

“We’ve had to adapt, quite often find different ways of working, but I’m extremely proud of the way we’ve continued to care and kept our mental health and community health patients and service users safe.”

Previous organisations who have been granted Freedom of the Borough include RAF Woodvale, in 2011, and No. 238 (Sefton) Squadron, 156 Regiment, Royal Corps of Transport, in 1982. Individuals who have had the honour bestowed upon them include Jamie Carragher, in 2004, and Donald “Ginger” McCain in 2006.

ASB Awareness Week: Making Communities Safer

16 July 2021
Amy Hitchmough
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Latest News, Police

Merseyside Police will be working with local communities and partners across next week to highlight the support available to people experiencing anti-social behaviour and the work taking place in Sefton to prevent and tackle it.

The 19-25 July has been nationally identified as a week to shine a spotlight on anti-social behaviour to help make communities safer.

During the week, in Sefton, Merseyside Police and partners including One Vision Housing will be building on the work they carry out on a daily basis in our communities to address the issues that matter to Sefton residents. From school visits, open land searches and leaflet drops to quad bike patrols and high visibility presence in hot spot areas they will engage with communities across the borough.

Chief Superintendent for Local Policing, Zoe Thornton said, “Anti-social behaviour is a priority for Merseyside Police and this awareness week offers an opportunity to highlight the issues of ASB and the impact it can have on the local communities.

People deserve to feel safe where they live and our activities this week will highlight some of the work that we undertake on a daily basis to support our communities and tackle ASB.

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner, Emily Spurrell said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a hugely damaging effect for victims who are repeatedly and persistently targeted. It causes fear, stress, anxiety, depression and leaves people too scared to leave their front door and even afraid while they are inside their own home.

“That’s why tackling and preventing ASB is one of my priorities. I welcome the launch of the UK’s first official ASB Awareness Week and all the fantastic multi-agency initiatives planned by Merseyside Police and our partners over the next week and beyond.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live.  I hope this event will help to bring communities together to take a stand against ASB and highlight the help and support which is available to anyone affected by it.”

Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, said: “In Sefton we continue to do all we can alongside our partners in the police, to curb any and all instances of anti-social behaviour (ASB).

“We hope that the community join us in supporting Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness week and this is an opportune moment for us all to remind ourselves of what we can do to help keep our fantastic borough safe and free from this kind of harm and upset.

“We have a committed and hard working ASB team who regularly team up with partners in housing and uniformed services to support victims, as well as proactively reducing the amount of ASB we see in our communities.

“The Sefton Safer Communities Partnership funds, via its Crime Reduction Grant, many activities throughout the year that offer diversionary activities to help reduce Anti-Social behaviour.”

Activity taking place throughout the week includes:

  • Sefton’s Local Policing team will continue the work they do on a daily basis to deploy patrols to ASB hotspot areas
  • Quad bikes will patrol areas where police receive reports of those riding scrambler bikes illegally
  • Sefton schools officers will deliver talks to pupils about the impact and consequences of anti-social behaviour in local communities
  • A joint operation around persistent ASB with One Vision Housing to address concerns from their residents
  • Social media Q&A for residents in Seaforth, Crosby, Waterloo, Blundellsands, Bootle and Litherland

ASB Awareness Week is organised by community safety specialists Resolve, ASB Awareness Week is being backed by the Home Office, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), Local Government Association (LGA), National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and the National Fire Chiefs’ Council (NFCC).

Rebecca Bryant OBE, Chief Executive of Resolve, said: “As the nation begins to recover from the impact of the pandemic and our society and economy celebrates the start of return to normal life, it is important that the challenge of ASB continues to be given the priority it needs nationally and locally so that people feel safe in their homes and communities.

“We are delighted Sefton is involved in this hugely important and successful campaign. It is vital to develop partnership approaches across communities to deal with the growing challenges around ASB. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home and community.”

To find out what is happening each day follow Merseyside Police’s social media accounts for regular updates.

For more information visit www.resolveuk.org.uk/asbawarenessweek

REPORT IT

If you are experiencing anti-social behaviour or are a victim of a crime you are encouraged to report this to Merseyside Police @MerPolCC or online here.

You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

‘Living with COVID-19 and life after 19th July’ – joint statement from the Directors of Public Health in Cheshire and Merseyside on the national changes to COVID-19 restrictions

16 July 2021
Martin Driver
No comments
Categories: Front Page, Health, Latest News
  • Directors of Public Health in Cheshire and Merseyside’s nine local council areas – Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, Warrington and Wirral – are issuing advice for residents and businesses
  • Alongside take up of the COVID-19 vaccination, the local public health advice is to continue as much as possible with the use of face coverings, social distancing, good hand hygiene and regular testing
  • Continuing already existing behaviours will decrease the likelihood of a dangerous and potentially vaccine-resistant mutation of the virus, protect unvaccinated children and lower the number of people who fall ill with COVID-19 and develop ‘long COVID’

Rising infections locally

Cheshire and Merseyside’s Directors of Public Health, working together as the Champs Public Health Collaborative, are asking those living and working in the area to go above and beyond the minimum required, in the light of rising COVID-19 infections locally and changes to the national COVID-19 restrictions.

People are being asked to take their individual and collective role to reduce the transmission of the virus incredibly seriously, and not see the 19th July as a reason to stop all behaviours that have helped to reduce the spread of the virus over the past 16 months, especially when in close contact with others.

This is very important, as infection rates are high in the area and historically, the North West of England has been more impacted by the virus than other areas, due to structural inequalities. This means recovery from the pandemic will take longer unless residents continue to take steps to minimise harm right now.

This advice will also support local businesses and the wider economy, as increased transmission of the virus will result in major disruptions if staff are unable to work due to being unwell with COVID-19 and legally required to self-isolate.

Full statement from Cheshire and Merseyside’s Directors of Public Health:

We absolutely understand the feeling of our residents who want nothing more than to get back to normal, but it is our role as Directors of Public Health to be realistic about the future of this pandemic and do everything we can to protect the health of our population.

The early evidence suggests that the hugely successful mass vaccination programme has weakened the link between infection of risk of hospitalisation and loss of life, which is incredibly encouraging, but that unfortunately is not the end of this story. It is clear that a massive rise in infections will impact our unvaccinated children and teenagers, those who have not been vaccinated, either due to personal choice or another medical reason, or those who have been vaccinated but fall within the lower percentage of people who are not protected.

Another very real danger is the risk of yet another mutation of the virus that is both easier to catch and could render our current vaccines powerless, essentially taking us back to square one.

We are urging those living and working in Cheshire and Merseyside to:

  • Get fully vaccinated – it’s shown to be safe and effective against the virus, including new variants and is the best way to keep yourself from getting seriously ill. It also reduces the risk of passing the virus on to someone else
  • Be kind and considerate of others who may be feeling extremely nervous about the further lifting of restrictions
  • Continue wearing face coverings in crowded indoor areas where social distancing cannot be followed, such as supermarkets and on public transport, in health and social care settings, such as hospitals, care homes and GP surgeries, and where it would make others feel more comfortable
  • Continue social distancing by not unnecessarily being in crowded areas and continuing to work from home if possible
  • Continue to practice good hand hygiene, in particular hand washing
  • Keep getting tested – everyone should undertake twice weekly rapid symptom free testing using Lateral Flow Tests (LFT). If people experience generally associated symptoms such as a headache, a stuffed or runny nose, tiredness or weakness, aches and pains, sore throat or diarrhoea, they should take an LFT and follow up with a PCR test if the LFT test is positive. If people have any of the main symptoms of COVID-19 such as a high temperature, a new continuous cough or loss or change to their sense of smell or taste they must stay at home and book a PCR test. Around one in three people with COVID-19 don’t have symptoms, but can still infect others – so getting tested regularly will help slow the spread.
  • Self-isolate if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, especially if you work in a high-risk setting

We are urging businesses and workplaces in Cheshire and Merseyside to:

  • Continue to adhere to COVID-19 working safely guidance, including provision of washing facilities and proper ventilation with external fresh air
  • Continue to engage with the Test, Trace and Isolate process, and increase testing if your workplace has had an outbreak
  • Encourage your employees to get tested if they suspect they have COVID-19 symptoms and self-isolate if positive
  • Encourage your employees to have both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine when it is offered

It is difficult to say when this way of living will end, but we do know that we are likely to have a difficult winter ahead of us, which means it is likely we will need to follow this advice until spring next year.

For many this will be unwelcome, but ultimately, it is necessary. Throughout this pandemic, we have witnessed from our population extraordinary levels of personal resilience, as well as kindness and thoughtful consideration towards others, and it is with this in mind that we ask you to continue your efforts in being strong, being kind and being safe.

Stay safe,

Dr Matt Tyrer

Director of Public Health for Cheshire East

Ian Ashworth

Director of Public Health Cheshire West and Chester

Eileen O’Meara

Director of Public Health for Halton

Dr Sarah McNulty

Director of Public Health for Knowsley

Professor Matt Ashton

Director of Public Health for Liverpool

Margaret Jones

Director of Public Health for Sefton

Ruth Du Plessis

Director of Public Health for St Helens

Thara Raj

Director of Public Health for Warrington

Julie Webster

Director of Public Health for Wirral

Get a test

To learn more about the Champs Public Health Collaborative, please visit www.champspublichealth.com.

Anyone who gets a positive result from a rapid test can book a PCR test by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.

Directors are also keen to stress how important it is for anyone with the Coronavirus symptoms of a new persistent cough, a high temperature or a loss of sense of taste or smell, to self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.

For those who need support during this difficult time please visit www.kindtoyourmind.org which has details of 24/7 crisis helplines and resources to help mental wellbeing.

Call for caution echoed by Metro Mayor and England’s Police Chiefs

In line with Sefton Council’s appeal to people to remain COVID-cautious after Monday 19th July, when the Government is lifting most remaining restrictions, Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham wants people to continue wearing masks on public transport.

Also, police chiefs say that “to keep officers safe” they will continue to wear masks and other protective equipment after the legal requirements are lifted on Monday.

Read the article in full.

New look Southport Market opens this coming Thursday!

16 July 2021
Ollie Cowan
No comments
Categories: Borough Of Culture, Essential Sefton, Front Page, Latest News

The brand new Southport Market will officially open its doors on Thursday, July 22, in time for a scorching summer of tasty treats, thirst quenching drinks and much more.

A host of traders, including a newly revealed Pacific Rim & Sushi inspired food stall by the Vincent Hotel, will be ready to welcome visitors to the incredible market space from 10am on July 22, following months of planning and refurbishment works.

All ten stalls and traders, as well as a feature bar and drinks space, have now been confirmed as residents of the North West’s newest food and drink experience, combining an incredible mix of local talent from across Southport and an array of international delicacies at the heart of the resort’s revamped market quarter.

The £1.4m scheme, which is a key enabler and an early part of Sefton Council’s Covid-19 recovery plan for Southport, is also supported by a flexible events area able to host high-quality pop-up markets along with other events.

The full list of confirmed traders is as follows:

Blackhurst Butchers
600 degrees (Pizzas, Italian)
Hector’s Mexicana (Mexican street food)
Pacific By Vincent (Pacific Rim inspired foods)
Down and Oot (Canadian steaks, poutine, hot sandwiches)
King St. Bakery (Portuguese tarts)
Messy Moments (Desserts)
Birkdale Pie & Mash (Assorted pies)
Allotment – (American Burgers et al)
Pitamu (Greek & Mediterranean)

An incredible feature bar, described as the centrepiece of the new Southport Market crown, will be managed by the Mikhail Leisure group, famous for the successful Bold Hotel, Punch Tarmey’s and much more.

Andrew Mikhail, owner of The Mikhail group, said: “Yet again, the great team at Sefton Council have had fabulous vision with their regeneration plans for the market.

“Not only creating jobs for locals but I am certain that this will bring people from far and wide to Southport.”

Cllr Ian Maher, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “This is a very exciting time and we cannot wait to welcome thousands of visitors through the Market’s gates.

“We are delighted to see all the hard work of our Tourism team and partners coming to fruition and to be able to complete this project on time and to such an incredible standard is a testament to our commitment to Southport and Sefton.

“Every single trader comes to the market with a passion and desire to ensure this project is a success and we are confident this will be one of the North West’s best food & drink gems.

“We look forward to working with our traders and stall holders at what is an iconic location in the heart of Southport and, most importantly, welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy the space we have worked so hard to create.”

The Southport Market project has been led by Sefton Council and partners, supported by funding from the Liverpool City Region and Southport Town Deal.

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