Christmas carol service aims for a £20,000 boost to charity for disabled people

Lancashire is packed with creative crafters who have made a career out their skills and we asked one group to pick their perfect Christmas presents. They will be setting up their stall at a festive fare in Preston this month

Our guide to some of the best Christmas shows in the region this festive season

Digest this mini review in 60 seconds

Cheshire boasts yet another place to sample Raymond Blanc’s cuisine with the opening of Brasserie Blanc at the Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel

The elegant Lancashire seaside resort has character in spades and some quirky places to shop – including the stunning Wayfarers Arcade

Two small boys help guide this monster of a machine to its winter quarters

Historic Farfield Mill faces an uncertain future but the local community is fighting to save this centre for arts and crafts.

One of the oldest cinemas in the country – The Palace in Longridge – has a new owner and a new lease of life.

Major investment in Preston has created luxurious new facilities at one of the region’s top jewellers.

Sparkle this festive season in these luxurious pieces from award-winning jewellers Banks Lyon, of Lancaster, Kendal & www.bankslyon.co.uk

Fine stately homes, works of modern art, industrial heritage and fantastic views. The countryside surrounding Burnley has walks to suit all tastes.

Garstang is a lovely old market town and the perfect place to walk off the Christmas dinner. John Lenehan reports

With the West Pennine Moors and the summits of Rivington Pike and Winter Hill right on its doorstp, Bolton has plenty of options for walkers.

John Lenehan grabs his broomstick and takes us on a journey through some of Lancashire’s loveliest countryside.

Paul Mackenzie follows the Yellow Brick Road to Bolton

The Theatre by the Lake draw the curtain on 2018 with a classic tale.

Three hours of the best worst possible taste in town . . .

“Brassed Off” is the stage version of the classic film of 1996 made famous by Ewan McGregor, Pete Postlethwaite and Tara Fitzgerald. It is inspired by the true events of Grimethorpe Colliery Band and brought to the Empire Theatre by Blackburn Drama Club.