Sefton Council and residents from Thornton and Netherton are bringing communities together at a special music festival to show how they want to make positive changes in their area and stand together in the fight against crime.

In light of recent incidents in the area, Thornton Family Wellbeing Centre wanted to show all the positive activities happening locally and has joined forces with the community, volunteers and partner agencies to start up the Sefton Families Fighting Against Crime group.

As music is a great way to bring communities together, the group decided to organise their very first festival on August 30.

During the event, which takes place from 12noon to 5pm at the centre on Stannyfield Drive, there will be stalls, entertainment and a music stage that will host local talent and performers.

Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, said: “This event is a great way to bring residents together and to reaffirm that strong sense of community which runs throughout the borough.

“We know the majority of residents living in Sefton are proud of where they live and won’t stand for serious crime on their doorstep.

“The council is committed to ensuring residents feel safe and I believe that uniting together will help us build a positive future for our thriving communities.”

Jess Hankin, 27, who lives in Thornton with her two children, said: “Crime is impacting on our community but I do think our young people are negatively stereotyped because of a small number of gangs. This event is so important because it will bring our community together and make positive things happen. We need more events like this that bring us together.”

Mother-of-four Tracy Howard, 50, added: “People need to feel safe and we have lots of vulnerable people who live in our communities. The event will raise awareness of the impact crime is having on us and that as a community we will not take this and we will do something about it.”

For additional information or if you would like to get involved email event organisers  Leeann.doolin@sefton.gov.uk, Michelle.joyce-gillespie@sefton.gov.uk or Angela.Robinson@sefton.gov.uk. Alternatively call Thornton Family Wellbeing Centre on 0151 934 4991.