Every corner of the North West holds a story waiting to be told—and some of them will change the way you see the world.
It all started with a simple nudge from a viewer: 'You need to shout about this.' Little did I know, that nudge would turn into a year-long journey across the North West of England, where I’d uncover tales of resilience, joy, and quiet strength in places often overlooked. Armed with curiosity and an open heart, I set out to explore, not just to tick locations off a list, but to listen to the people who call these places home.
The 25 in 25 series wasn’t about checking boxes—it was about the stories. The ones that whisper, the ones that roar, and the ones that make you pause and reflect. From the serene walk around Davyhulme Park in Urmston, where the Davyhulme Park Friends showed me what it means to be a guardian of green spaces, to the humbling encounter with Daniel Theobalds from The Cancer Bank, whose courage in the face of adversity reminded me that true strength is often silent. But here’s where it gets controversial—do we truly value the unsung heroes in our communities, or do we only notice them when their stories go viral?
In Wigan, the vibrant team at The Hamlet proved that 'anything is possible' isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a way of life. Their warmth and humor taught me as much about broadcasting as they did about perspective. At Halton Farm, Karen Holden showed me that balance isn’t just possible—it’s essential, even if it’s hard to achieve. And in Preston, Jim Lawson, an amateur meteorologist with over 60 years of experience, gave me a masterclass in patience and passion for the skies. But this is the part most people miss—how often do we stop to appreciate the wisdom of those who’ve dedicated their lives to something greater than themselves?
Then there was Pete Smith, the 'bird whisperer,' whose stillness in a fast-paced world left me speechless. And Roger Hordley, who guided me through the breathtaking Macclesfield Forest, helping me capture the perfect shot. Closer to home, in Stockport, the spirit of Brinnington and the tranquility of Reddish Vale Country Park felt like a homecoming. But let’s pause for a moment—how many of us take the time to explore the beauty right on our doorstep?
From tea and cake with the Barnston Women’s Institute, celebrating a century of friendship, to the spiritual calm of Kagyu Ling Buddhist Temple, every encounter was a reminder of the richness of this region. Ken Heathcote inspired me with his proof that age is no barrier to pursuing your passions. And let’s not forget the Singing Mamas in Liverpool, whose harmonies brought unexpected joy to motherhood. But here’s a thought—how often do we underestimate the power of community and creativity in our lives?
As I visited every Hale in the North West, each with its welcoming locals and great pubs, I realized that sometimes the simplest things are all we need. Childhood memories flooded back at the Dragon Miniature Railway in Marple, and a heatwave made Chipping in Bloom glow with life. But it wasn’t all sunshine—Askam-in-Furness revealed its tranquil beauty, though locals might prefer you admire it from afar. And in Heysham, Massive Wagons showed how patience and honest messages can bridge generations. But this raises a question—are we doing enough to connect with the younger generation in meaningful ways?
From the fell runners of Cumbria to Michael Lilley, who ran 5km every day in 2025 to raise awareness for prostate cancer, every story was a testament to human determination. A short flight to the Isle of Man revealed dramatic landscapes and an incredible working museum, while Tramtown in Blackpool brought history to life, one tram at a time. And finally, meeting Charlotte Searle, an ex-professional dancer whose life was upended by a brain tumour, was a powerful reminder of resilience and hope. She’s determined to dance again—a story that challenges us to rethink what’s possible.
As 25 in 25 comes to a close, it’s not just the end of a remarkable year, but also my time delivering the weather on North West Tonight. Yet, what a privilege it’s been to share these stories, skies, and smiles with viewers across the region I call home. The North West isn’t just a place I’ve reported on—it’s a place that has shaped me. The people, the landscapes, the kindness, and the resilience will stay with me long after the final forecast fades.
So, for one last time, to the lovely viewers who’ve welcomed me into their lives and homes: thank you. But before I go, I want to leave you with this—what stories in the North West do you think deserve to be told? And more importantly, how can we ensure these voices are heard loud and clear? Let’s start the conversation.
