Hundreds of residents and visitors flocked to the heart of the seaside resort to enjoy a packed afternoon of free family fun at the very first Fylde Fest: In the Square, which was organised by Fylde Council and Discover Fylde to mark the official launch of the space as a vibrant hub for culture, creativity and community connection.

Crowds gathered to dance in the street with the Line Dance & Friendship Group; be wowed by Bake Off: The Professionals finalist Raf Perussi from Beurre Patisserie performing delicious live baking demonstrations; got creative with craft masterclasses at artistic hub Pot Bound; hunted down local fascinating facts on the Heritage Trail; raced to join in the fun of the Smoothie Bike Challenge with the Fylde Sports and Communities Team, and roared with laughter as stand up sensation Steve Royle delighted everyone with juggling and jokes live on stage before enchanting lots of little ones with hilarious storytelling sessions at Storytellers, Inc bookshop – all as part of Fylde Fest’s joyful showcase of everything that makes Fylde fabulous.

As the sun shone down on the Square, the air was filled with live music from North-West rock band Anthem UK, local acoustic singer Kagan Plant and the Fylde’s own singer/songwriter Daisy Atkinson; while the hilarious Granny Turismo had everyone in stitches as they rock and rolled through the streets causing chaos! Add in iridescent giant bubbles sparkling across the sky from Ebublio, a bustling artisan market and delicious food and drink from local traders – and it’s safe to say Fylde Fest served up the perfect recipe for a real community celebration!

Leader of Fylde Council, Councillor Karen Buckley, officially opened the new event space with a celebratory ribbon cutting on stage to rapturous applause, joined by Steve Royle, Mayor of Fylde, Councillor Frank Andrews and Deputy Town Mayor of St Annes, Councillor Roger Small.

Councillor Buckley said: “Fylde Fest: In the Square was the perfect way to mark the opening of our fantastic new Square in St Annes. It was wonderful to see so many people coming together, supporting local businesses and enjoying such a fun-filled day. The atmosphere was incredible – a true celebration of community spirit – and this is just the beginning of many more brilliant events to come from Fylde Fest. Watch this space!”

Fylde Fest: In the Square was hosted by Fylde Council and Discover Fylde, with support from local partners and businesses and marks the start of an exciting new chapter for St Annes Square, setting the stage for a vibrant programme of events funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

For news of upcoming events and ways to get involved in further Fylde Fest events, please visit www.discoverfylde.co.uk or email events@fylde.gov.uk

The impressive Q2 results from our partnership with AFC Fylde Community Foundation demonstrate the real impact of Fylde’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment, with programmes reaching 148 residents across the borough – from young people not in education or training to those experiencing homelessness.

The Training Ground programme alone has helped 63 unemployed residents achieve AQA Employability qualifications, while the apprenticeship scheme has created 7 new positions with local businesses including St Ives Hotel, Travel Care World, and Senior Moments Care Home. Every participant completing these programmes improves their employment prospects significantly.

“These results show exceptional value for money, with over 80% of participants achieving meaningful outcomes that will change their life trajectories,” said Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council. “We’re not just helping people find work – we’re building skills, confidence and creating sustainable career pathways that strengthen our entire community.”

The Foundation’s targeted approach is reaching those facing the greatest barriers. Staff deliver training at Fylde Council Town Hall specifically for homeless residents, run sessions at community centres in our most deprived areas, and provide intensive one-to-one mentoring for young people aged 16-18 not in education, employment or training.

Chris Brannigan, Chief Executive Officer of AFC Fylde Community Foundation, added: “We’re proud to work alongside Fylde Council to deliver programmes that truly impact our community, by offering practical skills, confidence, and hope for a brighter future.

“The Q2 results reflect not only the power of partnership, but also the potential within our community when opportunities are made accessible to all.”

With programmes continuing until March 2026 and local businesses including Mill Farm, The Villa, and Kirkham Smiles already expressing interest in creating more apprenticeships, the Foundation expects to exceed its annual target of 240 positive outcomes.

Fylde residents can find out more about employment support here.

The scheme has scooped the Collaborative Partnership Award at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) North West Annual Awards 2025, beating competition from major infrastructure projects right across the region.

The accolade recognises the exceptional teamwork between Fylde Council and contractor George Cox & Sons Ltd that delivered the Square’s remarkable makeover. Judges were particularly impressed by the innovative partnership approach that kept the community at the heart of every decision, with weekly shop visits, a dedicated WhatsApp channel, monthly newsletters and regular drop-in sessions keeping residents and businesses informed throughout. The partnership’s flexible planning even enabled both the Duke of Lancaster’s ‘Freedom Parade’ to march through the Square and St Annes Carnival to proceed safely during the ongoing construction. The Square now stands ready to host Fylde Fest this Saturday, the transformed space’s inaugural major event. This award perfectly highlights what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared vision for the community.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “This fantastic award recognises what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared vision for our community. The transformed Square is something every resident can be proud of, and this honour celebrates everyone who worked so hard to deliver such outstanding results for St Annes.”

Chris Cox, Managing Director at George Cox, added: “This is a huge testament to the hard work and successful delivery of such a prestigious scheme. It clearly demonstrates the excellent collaboration between Fylde Council, the design team and ourselves, which has been recognised by our industry. Everyone at George Cox is immensely proud of the St Annes Square scheme and the clear positive impact it has had on the town.”

Taking place on Thursday 20 November from 1pm to 4pm at the Well Community Centre in St Annes (St Albans Road, FY8 1UZ), the free event offers the perfect chance for anyone wanting to give their time to meet organisations seeking enthusiastic new volunteers. Whether you have a few hours a week or can commit to regular support, there will be groups looking for people with all kinds of skills and availability.

The fair also presents a wonderful opportunity for local charities and community groups to promote their valuable work and attract the volunteers they need to continue delivering vital services. Organisations interested in hosting a stall should email victoria.clegg@fylde.gov.uk to express their interest.

Councillor Chris Dixon, Lead Member for Social Wellbeing, said: “Our community is strengthened by the incredible dedication of volunteers who give their time to help others. This fair celebrates that spirit of generosity whilst connecting people who want to contribute with the organisations who need their support. It’s a chance to discover just how much amazing work happens across Fylde and find your perfect volunteering role.”

With plans to hold further volunteer fairs in different locations across the borough, the Council is committed to making it easier for residents to get involved in their local community and support causes close to their hearts.

The brilliant figures, captured through footfall monitoring funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, represent an impressive 8% increase in St Annes compared to last August, while Lytham also thrived with a fantastic 7.3% rise in visitors in the same month. Kirkham continues to enjoy strong community support following the £10 million Kirkham Futures Programme investment, with just under 190,000 people choosing to shop local in August – a third being loyal customers from the PR4 postcode area.

St Anne’s Road West buzzed with more activity than ever, welcoming increasing numbers of visitors each month since February 2025. Locals and visitors flocked to enjoy everything from independent shops to seaside cafes, creating a wonderful atmosphere that supported businesses through their crucial summer trading period. Major events brought communities together across the Fylde Coast throughout the season, with the spectacular St Annes International Kite Festival filling skies with kites of all shapes and sizes, the ever-popular St Annes Music Festival bringing live entertainment to the town, and the nostalgic Lytham 1940s Weekend – one of the country’s most established 1940s events – transporting thousands of visitors back in time.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, commented: “These record-breaking footfall figures across our towns demonstrate that Fylde continues to grow as a premier destination. The amazing refurbishment of St Annes Square has created a beautiful heart for our town, and our local traders have worked incredibly hard alongside these improvements. The momentum we’ve built this summer sets us up perfectly for the festive season ahead.”

The Council hopes to sustain these impressive visitor numbers through autumn and winter with the inaugural Fylde Fest: In the Square event taking place in St Annes on Saturday 25 October, the much-anticipated return of Christmas Markets to Ashton Gardens in December, and magical light switch-on events planned for Lytham, Kirkham, Ansdell and St Annes.

Find out more about upcoming events in Fylde: www.discoverfylde.co.uk/events/

For detailed footfall analysis, visit: www.investinfylde.co.uk/fylde-footfall-updates/

The Deputy Mayor of Fylde, Councillor Cheryl Little, joined representatives from the Royal British Legion at the Town Hall in St Annes on Thursday 23 October to mark the start of this year’s appeal which raises vital funds to support serving and veteran members of the armed forces and their families.

The three Royal British Legion branches in Fylde – St Annes-on-Sea, Lytham & Ansdell and Warton – have once again joined forces in a collaborative appeal to ensure the maximum support reaches those who have served our country. Local volunteers are already out in force across the borough, with collection points in shops, supermarkets and community venues making it easier than ever for residents to donate and receive their poppy.

Councillor Cheryl Little, Deputy Mayor of Fylde, said: “It’s a tremendous honour to support the launch of this year’s Poppy Appeal here in Fylde. The poppy is a symbol of remembrance for those who have died in conflict and a symbol of hope for a peaceful future and the rehabilitation of those affected by war. The dedication of our local Royal British Legion volunteers is truly inspiring, and I encourage everyone across our borough to wear their poppy with pride. Our armed forces community has given so much to our nation, and this is our opportunity to give something back and show our gratitude for their sacrifice.”

Lee Townsend, the Chairman for St Annes, Lytham & Ansdell and Warton RBL, and ex-Royal Navy Submariner, added: “The generosity of Fylde residents never ceases to amaze me. Every year our volunteers go above and beyond, and every year our community responds with incredible support. The funds raised make a real difference to veterans and their families right here in Fylde.

“Whether you can spare a pound or want to become a volunteer yourself, every contribution matters. We welcome anyone who wants to get involved – just visit the Royal British Legion website or find us on Facebook.”

The appeal comes ahead of Remembrance Sunday on 9 November, when communities across Fylde will gather for services of remembrance. Find out more about the services taking place across Fylde here.

People, clubs, schools and organisations that go above and beyond to encourage and facilitate community sport will be celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony at the Inn on the Prom Hotel in St Annes, hosted by Fylde Council’s Health and Sports Development Team.

Jack Waters, Health and Sports Development Officer at Fylde Council, said: “This year we’ve seen an all-time high in entry numbers, with over 330 nominations from across Fylde.

“The awards are a great opportunity to thank people, clubs, schools and organisations that work hard all year round and it is always wonderful to see so many inspirational people in one room.”

Councillor Chris Dixon, Lead Member for Social Wellbeing, added: “Sport plays such an important role in bringing our communities together here in Fylde.

“It is no secret that taking part in sporting activities can improve physical and mental wellbeing as well as inspire the next generation of sports stars.

“Our Fylde Community Sports Awards are a fantastic way to recognise the dedication and passion of those who make local sport possible

“Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted and thank you for making a real difference in Fylde.”

Fylde Community Sports Awards 2025 shortlist:

Coach of the Year

Luke Weafer – Sports for All

Ana Blackburn – Fylde Coast Rhythmic Gymnastics Academy

Club of the Year

St Annes Cricket Club

Special Olympics Fylde

Atletico Warton

Primary School of the Year

Clifton Primary School

Singleton Church of England Primary School

Secondary School of the Year

Lytham St Annes High School

Carr Hill High School

Young Achiever of the Year

Lilly Miles

Jess Hagon

Health & Wellbeing Award

Live Like Ralph

Suzy Adams

Healthy Workplace Award

Beaverbrooks

Fylde Council

Volunteer of the Year

Patrick Cook – St Annes Football Club

Stewart Dyson – Live Like Ralph

Following the huge success of the 2023 event in Lytham, families and couples can enjoy a magical Valentine’s weekend exploring stunning ice sculptures throughout the town centre, all completely free of charge.

This fantastic community celebration has been made possible through UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment, demonstrating our commitment to creating vibrant events that bring people together while supporting local businesses. The festival will see master ice carvers create magnificent sculptures at iconic Lytham locations, with live demonstrations captivating audiences throughout the day.

The festival builds on the incredible success of previous years in Kirkham, Lytham and St Annes, which attracted thousands of visitors and generated a real buzz across our coastal communities. Local businesses will benefit from increased footfall during what is traditionally a quieter trading period, while residents and tourists alike can discover the unique charm of Lytham’s historic streets and independent shops.

Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring the Ice Festival back to Lytham after such phenomenal feedback from residents in 2023. This event perfectly captures what makes Fylde special – our ability to create magical experiences that unite our communities while celebrating our beautiful towns. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment enables us to deliver this free event that families will treasure for years to come.”

Mark your calendars now for this unmissable winter celebration that promises to fill Lytham with wonder, excitement and community spirit this winter.

More than 2,300 people from FY8 took part, making it the single biggest group of respondents. The message from Fylde was consistent: keep our councils local.

• 85% of FY8 residents said they want to retain the current council structure – the highest level of support for the status quo anywhere in Lancashire.
• When asked about what matters most, Fylde residents put good health and care services and access to parks and green spaces at the very top of their priorities.
• Satisfaction with current services was also strong, with FY8 giving the highest average rating in the county (72/100).

While many people expressed concerns about losing local identity and representation under larger unitary councils, Fylde residents also highlighted what they value most: reliable services, good value for money and clear decision-making.

Fylde Council Leader, Cllr Karen Buckley, said: “Fylde residents have shown just how much they care about their community and local services.  The results from the survey confirm that the Government’s plans to re-draw local authority boundaries are not welcome in Fylde. Most respondents do not want to see Fylde Council abolished or merged with neighbouring councils.  Satisfaction ratings with current services are high, which is consistent with the feedback we receive through our resident householder surveys each year.

“Nevertheless, the Government have mandated proposals by the end of November from each council.  In the spirit of the survey results, any proposal from Fylde will have local identity, strong representation and value for money at its heart.”

Residents can find out more about Local Government Reorganisation here.

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Throughout 2024-25, Fylde Council worked in partnership with Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Public Health and the Probation Service to deliver real improvements for residents. Highlights include state-of-the-art CCTV camera upgrades across Kirkham, Lytham and St Annes providing high-resolution imagery, new Risk Management Meetings bringing agencies together to tackle anti-social behaviour more effectively, and the successful Operation Centurion in St Annes which was particularly well received by businesses in the town centre.

Looking ahead, partners have developed an exciting new three-year plan for 2026-2028 focusing on the issues that matter most to Fylde residents. Priorities include tackling serious organised crime and drug dealing, improving road safety across our communities, supporting victims of domestic abuse, reducing anti-social behaviour through enhanced Public Spaces Protection Order enforcement and addressing substance misuse through education and early intervention.

The partnership is also responding to emerging challenges including retail crime affecting our high streets, water and beach safety during our busy tourist season and counter terrorism preparedness following recent national events and the introduction of Martyn’s Law.

Councillor Chris Dixon, Lead Member for Social Wellbeing and Chairman of the Community Safety Partnership, said: “I’m incredibly proud of what our partnership has achieved this year and excited about our plans going forward. By working together, we’re not just responding to crime; we’re preventing it, protecting vulnerable people, and creating safer neighbourhoods where families can thrive.”

Residents who want to report crime or anti-social behaviour can contact Lancashire Constabulary on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.