Christmas is coming to Ocean Plaza in Southport this year, with some festive surprises to delight shoppers.
The popular retail park has today welcomed a sparkling seven metre tall illuminated Christmas tree and eye-catching festive decorations, thanks to funding from Southport BID and work from IllumiDex UK Ltd.
The lights were switched on by Samantha Johnson and her guide dog Rosie.
Southport firm IllumiDex has been installing everything this week to ensure the popular retail park gives a warm welcome to local shoppers and diners.
A Southport Plaza spokesperson said: “We are pleased to be working with Southport BID to be bringing some Christmas cheer to Ocean Plaza.
“We’re delighted to light up Ocean Plaza for the first time this Christmas.
“We think everyone could do with some extra festive feelings this year – so why not admire the lights and tree while you’re here?
“After a very hard year, we wanted to make our loyal customers smile.
“Click and collect is still available at Dunelm and Matalan this Christmas, with essential stores like Pets at Home and Poundstretcher open for those last-minute stocking fillers and goodies.
“We, as many other businesses have had a tough year, but our stores, restaurants and leisure offerings are eager to open to provide a truly magical, safe Christmas shopping experience.
“Southport BID has provided Ocean Plaza with a Christmas tree, a replica of the beautiful tree outside The Atkinson, a little smaller. The tree will be installed very soon.
“We are excited to see our new addition and can’t wait to see it lit up.
“To complement our new tree we have added Christmas lights across Ocean Plaza for that extra bit of sparkle. These have been supplied and fitted by IllumiDex.
“We are very happy to have the Southport BID supporting Ocean Plaza in such a positive way.
“Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald has shown an interest in every business, establishing their needs and bringing businesses together, long may it continue!”
Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said: “Ocean Plaza is a very important part of Southport and its retail offer, allowing people to enjoy a greater diversity of shops. If we can help those businesses in any way, then we will do.
“I am looking forward to seeing the new Christmas tree and festive decorations there.
“People are still able to shop at Ocean Plaza during lockdown, either in essential stores or through click and collect at others.
“Hopefully the park is going to be ready to welcome even more people back when the current Covid restrictions end on 2 December.”
For more details and to buy the new Southport Gift Card please visit www.southportgiftcard.co.uk