A photographer has helped recreate a famous promotional image for Southport as part of a plan to ‘make the town amazing again’.
The much-loved promotional painting has been replicated with a modern-style twist by fine art and commercial photographer, Julia Fullerton-Batten as part of the launch for Southport 2026, a year-long programme taking place in the town.
Southport 2026 is produced by Sefton Council with creative support from Culture Liverpool.
Southport was once one of the most exciting places to visit in the UK and in 2026 that vibe is set to return with several events to spotlight the town.
Photographer, Julia Fullerton-Batten, who travelled from London to recreate this historic painting said: “They want to bring it alive again and show what a glamourous town it could be and bring it to the forefront of people’s minds again of where to go and visit.”
Since the unfortunate events in the summer of 2024, there has been a sharp short-term drop in bookings following the event. However, the town is dedicated to making Southport great again like it was in the heyday.
Julia was contacted by Robin Kemp, the shoot producer, to recreate the picture, which was originally painted by Fortunino Matania in the 1930s.
She said: “I thought it was for a very good cause, so when I was asked to do it, not only would I create a really beautiful image but also it was to do something very positive for the future for the town. I felt really passionate about it.”
The London-based photographer expressed how positive everyone involved was throughout the project and how everyone was very excited about what the future holds for Southport.
The public have responded exceptionally well to the photograph in the last couple of days.
Julia added: “So far it’s been really positive and the fact they want to hang it next to the original painting is something that’s really special.”
Leighton Wright, a fitness coach and influencer from Southport, was cast in the shoot by his agency.
He said the recreation of the picture is a big part of the marketing campaign to grow Southport next year with their series of events throughout the year. It is one of the biggest campaigns they’ve ever done.
When talking about Southport’s hopes to boost tourism, he said: “As soon as you tell anyone anywhere that you’re from Southport the first thing they say is ‘that’s where those girls were killed’, so I think that’s definitely played a part, where’ve they’ve thought we need to boost this and make Southport known for something else.”
Leighton was invited to the reveal event ahead of the 2026 campaign where the people of Southport emphasised how the town doesn’t want to be known for the trauma that has happened, but to be known for something better.
The recreation of the promotional image is the start of their advertising for the positive and fun events that will take place next year to remember the greatness of the town and boost back the tourism.
Visit MerseyNewsLive’s TikTok to see more picture from the shoot here.
Featured image: Julia Fullerton-Batten
