Southport is a fantastic coastal destination like no other, boasting England’s oldest iron pier, beautiful sandy beaches and its very own lawnmower museum, But, did you know it is also the birthplace of many iconic household names?
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Originally part of Lancashire, Southport is now part of Merseyside and there are many famous faces with links to the beautiful seaside town, from Premier League footballers and top comedians to award-winning actors.
Here we take a look at 15 Sandgrounders who have gone on to achieve their dreams and make Southport proud.
13. Gomez
Gomez are an indie rock band from Southport, comprising Ian Ball (vocals, guitar), Paul "Blackie" Blackburn (bass), Tom Gray (vocals, guitars, keyboards), Ben Ottewell (vocals, guitars) and Olly Peacock (drums, synths, computers). They have released seven studios albums since their first, Bring It On, in 1998. | Kubacheck/CC BY 2.0/commons.wikimedia
14. Anthony Quayle
Sir Anthony Quayle was an actor and theatre director, born in Ainsdale. He was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe for his performance as Thomas Wolsey in Anne of the Thousand Days. He also played important roles in classic films such as The Guns of Navarone, Lawrence of Arabia and The Eagle Has Landed. | Getty Images
15. Jack Rodwell
Jack Rodwell is a Southport-born footballer who started his career at Birkdale United and Everton's academy. He played for Everton, Manchester City, Sunderland, Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield United before moving to Australia. | PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images Photo: PETER POWELL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images