Ella Wilcox

Runcorn father-of-three Joseph Kearney has lost more than 10 stone, changed from a 44-inch waist and XXXXL clothing to a 32-inch waist and medium-sized clothes, and significantly increased his confidence and fitness. After starting with the NHS Couch to 5K programme, he progressed from being unable to imagine running to preparing for the London Marathon. He will raise funds for Everton in the Community, motivated by his family’s connection to Everton and his experience of local charity work through the Runcorn-based Four Estates.

Emergency services tackled a large fire on Runcorn Hill after being called at around 11:55am on Thursday. Fire crews used a hose reel, a main water jet and fire beaters, while police established a safety cordon. The blaze affected about one hectare, or approximately 6,000 square metres, of scrubland. Crews continued dampening hot spots into the afternoon, while aerial photographs by Steven Kennedy documented the response and damage.

Fourteen-year-old Thomas Devine from Moore gave darts star Luke Littler a jacket potato during Littler’s appearance at Golden Square Shopping Centre in Warrington. Inspired by Littler’s mention of the local Baked Potato Van, Thomas wanted to offer a personal gift rather than another autograph. He said meeting his idol and giving him the potato would remain a cherished memory, adding that Littler had inspired him to take up darts and pursue his ambitions.

Fire crews were called to a home on Trones Wood Lane in Widnes after a bedroom fire believed to have been caused by a lithium‑ion battery. The fire had self‑extinguished before firefighters arrived, and crews removed carpet to ensure no further spread. Three engines responded, and no additional hazards were reported.

Halton Youth Cabinet received the Famous Five Award at the Ykids Believe Awards 2026 for creative community projects including environmental initiatives, accessibility campaigns and the Light Up Halton event. The group’s work has amplified youth voices across multiple levels and contributed to local wellbeing. HYC is also shortlisted for a BBC Radio Merseyside Make a Difference Award and plans to expand its projects over the coming year, underscoring the commitment of young people to improving life in Halton.