Chief reporter at @LiveLancs. @OfficialBWFC fan. Views are my own.
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Articles by Jon Macpherson
Hyndburn death notices and funeral announcements from this week
Announcing the passing of a loved one in local news media is a long standing tradition and we are proud of the trust placed in us to make these important announcements. Every notice published in the Accrington Observer and LancsLive site also appears on Funeral Notices - the UK's number one site for death notices and memoriams.
Jay Slater's mum says people still ring his phone two years after her son's death
Jay Slater's mum has revealed that people continue to try to contact her son's phone more than two years after his tragic death. The revelation comes as Cause of Death , the popular true crime series on Channel 5 featuring renowned forensic pathologist Dr Richard Shepherd, returns. The programme sees Dr Shepherd re-examine the evidence behind high-profile deaths and other cases, exploring how forensic science can help answer questions following a sudden loss.
How two school friends built a coffee brand that's expanding again
A popular coffee brand is opening its fifth shop, this time in Southport, as it prepares to expand into the town. Crosby Coffee has announced plans to open a new café at Eastbank, also known as the Enterprise Arcade, on Eastbank Street. The independent brand already has four shops across Merseyside, with hundreds of wholesale partners across the UK.
The Salford dad who took 50 kids from his 'deprived' area to Blackpool in huge gesture
A father-of-seven took 50 children from his “deprived” neighbourhood on a beach trip as he knew many of their families are struggling to afford days out. Jerry McCann, 39, organised the end-of-summer trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach for youngsters aged between 10 and 16 from Little Hulton, Salford after becoming increasingly concerned about the lack of things for children to do in the area. He said some of the youngsters had never even been to Blackpool before, despite it only being 40 miles away.
The plain-clothes police operation that took down a Burnley shoplifter
A thief has been jailed after being arrested during a proactive police operation targeting shoplifting in Burnley Robert Simpson, 36, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 20 weeks in prison when he appeared at Blackburn Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (September 29). Simpson was arrested by plain-clothes officers at the Shell Service Station on Trafalgar Street on Monday afternoon (September 28).
Big changes coming to Rawtenstall as major town centre works begin
Major improvement works are set to begin in Rawtenstall town centre as part of a £55m programme across East Lancashire The Bank Street scheme will see improvements made to Bank Street and surrounding areas, with the aim of creating a safer, more attractive and accessible environment for residents, businesses and visitors. Preparatory work has already started this week to establish a construction compound on Kay Street Car Park. The car park will be closed for the duration of the works.
First look at Southport gardens' planned £10m botanical transformation
A new image has revealed how Southport's Town Hall Gardens could look following plans for a £10m transformation into a botanical garden and performance space. The artistic designs have been released as part of the second stage of Sefton Council's public consultation on plans to regenerate the gardens on Lord Street. People have until Monday, October 5, to have their say on the proposals before the council submits a planning application and finalises the designs.
Mum hid the letter but I had a gut feeling something was wrong
While memory problems are often the first symptom people associate with dementia, the initial changes Beth Jones noticed in her mum were far more subtle. Beth, 37, from Lancashire , first became concerned about her mum Gill, now 68, in 2021 when she noticed a change in her personality. She told the Express : "She just became a lot quieter, which isn't like my mum. She was total chatterbox. But at the time we were still kind of in the midst of the pandemic and I just put it down to that.
First look at Southport gardens' planned £10m botanical transformation
A new image has revealed how Southport's Town Hall Gardens could look following plans for a £10m transformation into a botanical garden and performance space. The artistic designs have been released as part of the second stage of Sefton Council's public consultation on plans to regenerate the gardens on Lord Street. People have until Monday, October 5, to have their say on the proposals before the council submits a planning application and finalises the designs.
Leyland nursery praised by Ofsted after inspectors make key finding
A Leyland nursery where children are “happy and well settled” has achieved ‘expected standard' across all six evaluation areas following an Ofsted inspection. Partou Stonehouse Day Nursery and Pre-School was assessed under Ofsted's renewed early years inspection framework, with safeguarding standards judged to be ‘met'.
The emotional wedding surprise for a non-verbal autistic Lancaster boy, 6
A six-year-old autistic boy who is non-verbal was surprised by his favourite singer performing at his mum and dad's wedding. Hunter McNicholas uses music as one of the ways he connects with his mum and dad, Lizzie, 34, and Kevin McNicholas, 38, from Lancaster In December 2024, Lizzie started listening to singer Liv East in the kitchen and soon realised that four-year-old Hunter loved dancing along to her song “Freak”.
The 9-year-old guitarist taking on a huge challenge after Britain's Got Talent
A nine-year-old guitarist is aiming to make musical history after discovering his love of rock and metal. Adrian Abraham, from Middleton, has been playing guitar for just a short time but is already preparing to take on a challenge that could see him become the youngest person in the world to achieve a major guitar qualification. The youngster, known as @adrian_jaams on social media, recently showcased his talents during a Britain's Got Talent audition.
Police appeal to find missing Halton man, 61, after out of character disappearance
Police have issued an urgent appeal to find a 61-year-old man who has gone missing from Halton near Lancaster Malcolm Sanderson, whose legal name is John, was last seen near the Aqueduct Bridge in Halton at around 10am on Monday (September 28). Lancashire Police say it is 'out of character' for Malcolm to go missing and officers are 'growing increasingly concerned' for his welfare. He is described as 5ft 6in tall, with grey, balding hair, and wears glasses.
Urgent 'call 999' alert issued after Kirkham girl, 15, goes missing
An urgent 'call 999' alert has been issued following the disappearance of a teenage girl who has not been seen since Sunday. Kayla, 15, from Kirkham , was last seen on Bryning Fern Lane at 1.30pm on September 27. Police enquiries are now ongoing to find her. Kayla has links to Preston and Wigan, as well as the wider Manchester and London areas. She is described as 5ft 5in tall and of medium build, with dark brown hair.
Major Lancashire manufacturer marks 130 years with historic talent intake
Leyland Trucks has welcomed 24 new apprentices as the Lancashire manufacturer celebrates 130 years of truck building and invests in the next generation of talent. The latest intake is the company's most diverse apprenticeship cohort to date, with new starters joining across 10 disciplines spanning manufacturing, engineering and business.
Maghull school forced to close after parents warned site is not safe
A school has been forced to close today after the site was declared "not safe". Deyes High School in Maghull is shut on Tuesday (September 29) after problems with the water supply developed overnight. A message sent to parents this morning, and seen by the ECHO , said the school site on Deyes Lane was currently unsafe. It said: "Unfortunately, due to an issue with the school water supply, school will be closed for the day. "School site is not safe until water is restored for staff and student use.
'Little fingers' dial 999 nine times as Lancashire Police issue warning to parents
Lancashire Police has issued an urgent warning to parents after a young child accidentally dialled 999 NINE TIMES over the weekend. Officers said they had received a number of emergency calls which appeared to have been made accidentally by 'little fingers'. The force urged parents and carers to keep phones out of reach of younger children, warning that they could inadvertently dial the emergency number.
Free slime-making and family yoga as popular festival returns to Lancashire
Libraries across Lancashire are set to be transformed into colourful hubs of creativity this October as free family-friendly events return to the county. Thirteen libraries, along with Lancaster Castle and Judges' Lodgings, will once again become Fun Palaces from Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4. Families can take part in a range of free activities, with sessions including slime-making, family yoga, sensory play and Lego club activities.
Full list of 150 British Heart Foundation stores closing including five in Lancashire
A number of British Heart Foundation shops across Lancashire are among around 150 stores earmarked for closure as the charity reshapes its high street presence. The BHF, the UK's largest charity retailer, has announced plans to close the stores over the next two financial years as it responds to rising operating costs and changing shopping habits. Five Lancashire branches are affected by the plans. They are in Blackpool, Burnley, Chorley, Cleveleys and Ormskirk.
Lancashire area named worst North West hotspot for construction fly-tipping
A Lancashire area has been named the worst hotspot in the North West for construction-related fly-tipping, with almost 1,000 incidents recorded in a year. Pendle topped the regional table after recording 971 incidents involving construction, demolition or excavation waste during 2024/25. The figures come from new analysis by Lancaster waste management experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk , which looked at fly-tipping data across England.
Jay Slater's mum says Snapchat post from hours before he vanished still haunts her
Jay Slater's mum has spoken about the guilt she has felt since her son disappeared after seeing a Snapchat post he made on the morning he vanished. The 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle was found dead at the bottom of a ravine in Tenerife in July 2024, following a month-long search for him. His mum, Debbie Duncan, has now returned to the island to retrace Jay's final steps for a Channel 5 documentary, Cause of Death.
Homes evacuated and streets cordoned off in Southport after suspected explosive device found
Houses were evacuated and streets were cordoned off after a suspected explosive device was found at the back of a property Police were called to Kew Road in Southport at around 12.30pm on Saturday (September 26) after the suspected ordnance device was discovered. The road was cordoned off between Brighton Road and Bedford Road, while Dinorwic Road was also closed as the item was assessed. North West Ambulance Service and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene.
EV charging point fire at Euxton home sparks emergency response
A fire broke out at an electric vehicle charging point at a home in Euxton, prompting firefighters to rush to the scene. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) said crews were called at 10.44pm on Saturday (September 26) following reports of an electrical fire at a domestic property. A crew from Chorley and another from Bamber Bridge were mobilised to the incident. On arrival, firefighters found an external electric vehicle charger isolator alight.
Masked youths target homes with eggs as vehicles damaged in Coppull crime spree
Homes have been targeted by masked youths throwing eggs and vehicles have been damaged during a spate of anti-social behaviour in a Lancashire village. Lancashire Police said there had been an increase in anti-social behaviour and vehicle damage in the Coppull area of Chorley over the last week. A house on Mill Lane was targeted by a large group of youths wearing face coverings who threw eggs at the property on September 22 and September 26.
‘Self control beyond belief' as man takes Ramsbottom bakery treats 4,700 miles to US
A customer at one of the region's most-loved bakeries showed "self control beyond belief" after taking four custard tarts on a 4,700-mile journey to the US. The pastries were picked up from Loafi Bakehouse in Ramsbottom by regular customer Ryan just before he headed to the airport. Rather than tucking into the freshly baked treats on the way, Ryan took them all the way to Portland, Oregon, where they were eventually shared with friends.
Popular Rufford pub to close for £1m makeover and major new changes
A popular Lancashire pub is set for a £1m makeover which will see it open all day and create a number of new jobs. The Hesketh Arms, in Rufford, will temporarily close after service on Sunday, September 27, before reopening on Monday, November 9. The major refurbishment will protect the pub's Georgian period features while giving the entire property a refresh.
Coronation Street's Lucy Fallon devastated after beloved dog dies suddenly
Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon has been left heartbroken after sharing the sudden death of her beloved dog Sushi with fans. The Blackpool-born actress, best known for playing Bethany Platt in the ITV soap, shared the devastating news on her Instagram Story on Wednesday (September 23). Sushi, an adorable Pomeranian, regularly featured on Lucy's social media and had been by her side through some of the actress's biggest milestones, including becoming a mum.
Popular Southport pub set for change as 29-room Wetherspoon hotel takes shape
Work has begun on a £5m transformation at a popular Southport pub which is set to become home to a 29-room hotel. Wetherspoon is converting the vacant upper floors of its Sir Henry Segrave venue on Lord Street, with the pub also due to undergo refurbishment as part of the major project. The scheme will see the pub chain open its first hotel in Merseyside , with the guest accommodation housed within the same historic building as the bar.
Warton man raises £9k after 11 rounds of chemo but just wants an Oasis ticket
For David Hartley, what began as what appeared to be a kidney infection quickly turned into a devastating cancer diagnosis. The 40-year-old, from Warton, Lancashire , had been suffering from blood in his urine and severe kidney pain earlier this year. After visiting a walk-in centre in Blackpool several times, David was eventually admitted to Blackpool Victoria Hospital. A CT scan revealed a large tumour on his kidney.
Popular Rufford pub to close for £1m makeover and major new changes
A popular Lancashire pub is set for a £1m makeover which will see it open all day and create a number of new jobs. The Hesketh Arms, in Rufford, will temporarily close after service on Sunday, September 27, before reopening on Monday, November 9. The major refurbishment will protect the pub's Georgian period features while giving the entire property a refresh.
Thick black smoke seen for miles around after huge blaze breaks out in Thornton-Cleveleys
Thick black smoke could be seen across Thornton-Cleveleys as firefighters tackled a blaze involving two domestic garages. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) was called to a property on Hexham Avenue at around 6.35pm on Thursday (September 24). Pictures from the scene show a large plume of thick black smoke rising into the sky as firefighters battled the blaze. They used two breathing apparatus, two hose reels and one jet as they worked to bring the fire under control.
Lancashire crews battle through the night as huge barn goes up in flames
Firefighters battled a huge barn fire in Euxton for hours after a large straw barn was engulfed in flames. Crews from Chorley Fire Station were called to Culbeck Lane at around 11.20pm on Wednesday (September 23) after reports of the blaze. On arrival, firefighters were faced with a large straw barn “well alight”. Due to the size of the fire and the potential for it to spread, additional resources were called in, including a water bowser from Leyland and the drone team.
The Lancashire town named one of UK's top 10 rental hotspots as experts explain why
Morecambe has been named one of the UK's most competitive rental hotspots this summer as demand for homes remained particularly strong across the North West. The Lancashire town featured in Rightmove's list of the 10 locations with the strongest rental competition during July and August. Morecambe recorded an average of 22 enquiries per available rental property , putting it ninth in the national rankings. The average monthly rent in the town was £887, according to the property website's figures.
Tragedy as woman dies after being found unresponsive in Skelmersdale taxi
A woman in her 80s has died after being found unresponsive in the back of a taxi in Skelmersdale. Lancashire Police were called to Tanhouse Road at around 11.55am on Wednesday (September 23) following reports that a woman had fallen ill. Emergency services attended the scene, but despite the best efforts of police officers and medical personnel, the woman was sadly pronounced dead. The road was closed for several hours while emergency services dealt with the incident. It has since reopened.
Lancashire students can get free breakfast baps this Freshers' Week
Students in Lancashire can grab a free breakfast bap this Freshers' Week as a bakery chain launches a special giveaway for new university arrivals. Bakery79 is offering free breakfast baps to students at participating stores nationwide, including locations in Blackpool and Blackburn . There are several options to choose from, including bacon, sausage, omelette and veggie sausage baps.
Call 999 if you see missing teenager Warren Westhead with links to Fleetwood
Police have launched an urgent appeal to find a missing 15-year-old boy with links to Lancashire Warren Westhead was last seen at Roby train station at around 7.20pm on Wednesday (September 23), and extensive work is ongoing to find him. Merseyside Police said the schoolboy, from Huyton, has links to the Fleetwood area. He is described as white, around 5ft 6in tall and of slim build, with short hair at the back and a fringe.
Southport teenager's life changed forever after he collapsed before A-level exam
A teenager preparing to sit his A-levels thought he had picked up a virus when he became too unwell to take his final exam. Blade Rimmer, 18, had been looking forward to starting university after completing his exams in June 2025, with a place to study International Business at Edge Hill University. But his plans were cruelly derailed when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a rare type of blood cancer.
Euxton barn fire sees major emergency response as eight fire engines rush to scene
Firefighters are continuing to battle a major barn fire in Chorley after a large straw barn went up in flames. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) was called to Culbeck Lane, Euxton, at around 11.20pm on Wednesday (September 23). Crews arrived to find a large straw barn well alight , with the incident "quickly escalated". Eight fire engines are now at the scene, supported by specialist officers, a command unit, water bowser and drone resources.
Second earthquake hits Lancashire just a day after houses shaken by 'loud boom'
A second earthquake has hit Lancashire just a day after a stronger tremor rattled homes across the region. The British Geological Survey (BGS) recorded a 1.5 magnitude earthquake near Silverdale at 11.46am on Tuesday, September 22. The latest tremor struck less than 24 hours after a 2.7 magnitude quake hit the same area on Monday morning The second earthquake was centred near Silverdale at a depth of around 3km and was reportedly felt in both Silverdale and nearby Milnthorpe.
The Lancashire town named one of UK's top 10 rental hotspots as experts explain why
1 hour ago Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury will contest their long-awaited all-British heavyweight fight at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on 11 December. The bout, more than a decade in the making, will be broadcast globally on Netflix. BBC Sport understands the main event could take place in the early hours of …
Lancashire students can get free breakfast baps this Freshers' Week
Students in Lancashire can grab a free breakfast bap this Freshers' Week as a bakery chain launches a special giveaway for new university arrivals. Bakery79 is offering free breakfast baps to students at participating stores nationwide, including locations in Blackpool and Blackburn. There are several options to choose from, including bacon, sausage, omelette and veggie sausage baps.
Beloved Southport bar that was 'absolutely rammed for years' announces closure
A much-loved Southport bar that was always "absolutely rammed" has announced it is closing its original home after almost seven years. Coopers Bar, on Leicester Street, has become one of the town's best-known live music and community venues since opening. Run by the Cooper family - Spud, Ella and Yvette - the bar was created with the aim of providing "a warm, welcoming space where great music, good food, and friendly company come together".
King's Guide to Morecambe Bay launches appeal after 'beloved' tractors vandalised
The King's Guide to the Sands of Morecambe Bay has launched an appeal after his beloved tractors were vandalised. Michael Wilson, the 26th King's Guide to the Sands, is asking for help to get the vital vehicles back in working order after they were deliberately damaged. The historic role dates back to 1548 and involves guiding people safely across the dangerous sands of Morecambe Bay.
Blackburn drivers issued warning over scam QR codes on parking machines
Drivers have been warned about a parking scam after a suspicious QR code sticker was found on a payment machine in Blackburn Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council issued the warning after one of its Civil Enforcement Officers spotted the sticker on a car parking payment machine. The QR code was found on a machine outside 10 Duke Street. The council has stressed that it does not offer QR codes as a payment option at any of its council-owned car parks or for on-street parking.
Lancashire train passengers hit by major disruption today with services slashed or cancelled
Train passengers in Lancashire are facing a day of disruption after a signalling fault caused services to be reduced. National Rail has warned of fewer trains between Blackpool North and Preston on Wednesday (September 23) due to a fault with the signalling system. The problem means fewer trains are able to run between the two stations, with some services potentially being cancelled. Disruption is expected to continue until the end of today.
She's been stuck in rescue for 270 days - now Princess needs a home
A loving Sphynx cat has spent more than 270 days waiting for a new forever home after being rescued from a property where she and seven other cats were found seriously unwell. Princess is now being cared for by the RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch and is described as an "extremely friendly" cat who loves attention. The affectionate feline purrs and meows at people she meets and will even climb onto their shoulders for cuddles.
Lancashire haulage firm falls into liquidation in latest industry blow
A Lancashire haulage company has fallen into liquidation in the latest blow to the freight industry. RP Bulk Haulage Ltd, a haulage firm based in Whalley, appointed liquidators on September 4. The news was formally announced in a statement published in the London Gazette on September 9, with the company entering Creditors' Voluntary Liquidation. Companies House records show the business filed a resolution to wind up the company and confirmed that a voluntary liquidator had been appointed.
Booths shoppers set to see major change across all 25 stores
Shoppers will be able to buy exactly the amount of fruit and vegetables they need as Booths rolls out a new approach across all 25 of its stores. The family-owned supermarket is increasing the amount of loose produce available, allowing customers to pick individual items rather than having to buy pre-packed quantities. The move is designed to help reduce food waste while also cutting down on unnecessary single-use plastic packaging.
Southport dad finishes gruelling Ironman challenge with emotional message for his son
A determined dad has completed an incredible 70.3-mile Ironman challenge in memory of three much-loved family members who died by suicide. Daniel Cardwell, from Southport , swam, cycled and ran the entire distance at Ironman 70.3 Weymouth as he aims to raise £10,000 for The Jordan Legacy after 18 months of gruelling training. Daniel was devastated after losing his brother Craig to suicide, along with his two cousins, Jacqueline Cardwell and Jason Cardwell.
Cricket club that 'refused to die' to make Chorley history this weekend
A cricket club which nearly folded after having just seven players for a match will make history with Chorley 's first-ever open-top bus parade. White Coppice Cricket Club will take to the streets on Saturday (September 26) to celebrate a remarkable double promotion-winning season. The 151-year-old club, which plays in the Palace Shield Cricket Competition, was on the brink of collapse in 2017 when it had only seven players available for one match.
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