Thursday 8th January 2026

Well, here we are then – first Thursday of 2026, and the Warrington & Nantwich Guardian is hot off the press with some cracking stories. I’ve got Gareth Dunning, Deputy Editor, with us for the weekly catch-up, and we’re diving straight into what’s capturing the hearts (and the headlines) across our patch.

A Heartfelt Tribute

We’re starting this week with something really emotional. If you’ve been following the local news over the past few years, you’ll know the story of Kieran Shingler.

Kieran was diagnosed with a brain tumour – what many thought was just a cold or flu turned out to be something far more serious. Sadly, he passed away at St Rocco’s just before Christmas, at just 26 years old.

What struck everyone about Kieran’s journey was his incredible spirit.

Despite his diagnosis, he fought so bravely and raised thousands of pounds for charity along the way. He became an inspiring figure for Warrington – the kind of person who makes you feel like you’ve genuinely lost a friend.

The Guardian’s tribute this week is lovely, and his family are encouraging people to attend his funeral.

You really do feel like you’ve known him through the stories, haven’t you? When you see someone’s journey unfolded through the paper and on the airwaves, they become part of your community.

Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends.

Pantomime Magic – And a Visit to the Care Home!

Let’s talk panto! We’re seeing record-breaking audiences at the Parr Hall this year, and the good news is there are still tickets available if you fancy a night out.

It runs through to Sunday (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday shows), and honestly, it looks brilliant.

Great songs, fantastic storytelling, risky jokes for both the kids and the adults – definitely a cracking night out.

But here’s what I loved hearing about – the entire cast went along to Belong Care home in Latchford this week for a bit of a sing-song with the residents.

Now that’s community spirit. They were there explaining who they were, getting to know the residents, making it personal.

The cast from Beauty and the Beast were particularly popular especially Anne Hegerty from The Chase and Jake Quickenden, who plays Gaston (the baddie), was there too.

You can just imagine the smiles on the faces of the residents getting to meet the stars!

Luke Littler – Making History at 18

Now, this is something special. Luke Littler has done it again! Already a double world champion at just 18 years old, he’s now world number one and genuinely rewriting the history books.

The lad just keeps getting better and better – he barely broke a sweat during the World Championships, and his performance on Saturday night had people glued to their screens.

Gareth mentioned something that really puts it in perspective: Phil Taylor, the darts legend, won his world championship at 52 or 53.

If Luke manages to win at the same age, we’re looking at the 2060 World Darts Championship. Let that sink in!

It’s mad to think about what could happen here. All we can do is sit back and celebrate his success in the meantime.

Maybe we’ll be having a pint down at the Ex-Servicemen’s by then, reminiscing about these early days!

AI Art and Local Love

Finally, something a bit fun and quirky – the Guardian’s Facebook community has been getting creative over Christmas.

Through their camera club, one member has been having a brilliant bit of fun with AI, dropping a certain famous bear into familiar Warrington scenes.

We’re talking Paddington – you know, the beloved film character – photoshopped into all the iconic spots around our towns.

The Bridgewater Canal, Golden Gates, Golden Square… all the highlights of Warrington with Paddington in tow.

And you know what? It perfectly captures why local journalism still matters.

People want to see their towns, their landmarks, their people. That’s what the Guardian does brilliantly – it shows us faces, it tells us about the people making things happen where we live.

That’s the stuff that really matters!

Same time next week then – catch Gareth and the full Guardian Review every Thursday on Mix 56!