Southport Summer Classics: People give their reaction to idea of reviving event

Southport people have shown overwhelming support to seeing Southport Summer Classics return to Victoria Park. 

Earlier today, Stand Up For Southport revealed how new General Manager of Southport Flower Show and Victoria Park Events Alan Adams was considering reviving the popular event which was last held in 2009. 

The shows at park saw crowds walk in with picnics before enjoying an evening of sunshine and music watching stars including: Marc Almond, Jools Holland, Russell Watson, Alfie Boe, Jamie Cullum, George Benson, Lulu, M People, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, The Christians and Rick Astley. 

Alan said: “It is crucial that we attract visitors by providing inspiring events for people of all ages. They will in turn use our hotels and restaurants and with increased footfall, our high street will be encouraged to regenerate.

“Amongst other events that I have ideas for, I would love to see the return of the Summer Classics in the Park. I have been asked many times if I can bring back a music event to our park and if this is what people want, I promise to do my utmost to try and make it happen.”     

Local people gave their reaction. 

Speaking on the Stand Up For Southport Facebook page, Pam Leckie said: “YES PLEASE. A friend and I stumbled across this years ago. It was going to be a beautiful evening weather wise, and we didn’t have anything else to do. We absolutely loved it, and made sure we went every year after that. The highlight was seeing Jools Holland, with Lulu and Marc Almond as guests.” 

Read More: Southport Summer Classics could return to Victoria Park

Colette Halliday said: “We went to the Summer Classics most years, they were brilliant!

“Will always remember Marc Almond bouncing on stage and shouting ‘Good evening Southport – I’ve been waiting my whole life to say that!’ Bless him, so great. Would love to see them back.”

Sammi Rudge said: “I would love to see this event return, even on a smaller scale.

“M People were possibly the best act I saw – I literally didn’t sit down, just dancing around was fabulous.

“Of course as well as the contemporary artiste on one evening there was always the Liverpool Philharmonic on the other and that was just as enjoyable. I couldn’t get through ‘Land of Hope & Glory’ without blubbing. lots of people in the audience waving their Union Jack, totes emosh!

“Picnic tables, wine and nibbles – fabulous event.” 

Amanda Mitchell said: “That would be brilliant. I remember seeing George Benson. It was a fabulous night. Great atmosphere.” 

Tracy Haskayne said: “I saw my favourite Rick Astley. It poured down but was an amazing show.” 

Mike Durkin said: “Great idea, would be great for the town – look at how well Lytham have done with similar shows.” 

Read More: New Southport Flower Show boss reveals ambition for ‘inspiring events to attract people of all ages’

Carol Bennion said: “Sunday night proms was always a great night out. It should be revived.”

Janine Hyland said: “I had a great evening watching George Benson and a very young Jamie Cullum. I think Jamie was the supporting act.” 

Leann Lyons said: “Absolutely! Great idea! If we can get it right and like Lyttham have built up over the last few years, it would be great revenue and Kudos for the town. Certainly put Southport on the map again.”

Billie Stephens said: “Fantastic event. Loved going to this. These are the things Southport needs to bring in visitors and give enjoyment to the locals. There’s nothing to do in the Summer. I remember seeing Ken Dodd every year at the theatre, even Johnny Mathis came there. Open air events with bring your own picnic, especially now when we need to eat and communicate at a distance outdoors, are what’s needed.”

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