Good morning Liverpool and a very happy Friday.
This week has been dominated by icy conditions and travel chaos, but the weekend is almost upon us. And what a weekend it's set to be, with a packed programme of events set to get underway for Chinese New Year.
With the oldest Chinese population in Europe - and arguably the most stunning arch in the country - it's only fitting that Liverpool should throw a spectacular bash.
READ MORE: Faces of killer brothers who battered security guard to death near shopping centre
Here's a rundown of everything that's going on to mark the start of the Year of the Rabbit. Kung hei fat choi to you all. Now, let's look at some of the big stories that have been dominating the headlines in the last few hours here in Liverpool::
"We demand respect!"
The cold weather didn't deter striking nurses this week, with packed picket lines across the region. Our photographer Iain Watts managed to capture some passionate words from Erini Cheliotis summing up how she and her colleagues at Whiston Hospital are feeling. You can watch it here:
Levelling Up losses
The most deprived communities were once again dealt a tough blow by the government as it came to light that many areas across the region have missed out on investment from the Levelling Up Fund. Politics editor Liam Thorp has taken a closer look with an opinion piece on the matter.
Heart of a lion
In the run up to Chinese New Year on Sunday (22 January) I had the privilege to chat to some performers who are set to take centre stage in the parade's lion dance. The lion dance is a tradition in Chinese culture and is said to bring good luck and good fortune. Eugene Wong-McDonald, 33, and Nicola Wai-See Chan, 40, are students at Hung Gar Kung Fu Club and shed some light on what the lion dance means to them and the work that goes into it.
Get the top stories straight to your inbox by signing up to our what's on newsletter
READ NEXT:
Boy, 15, storms out dock as he's found guilty of beating man to death
Hotel's perfect reply to guest who took one look at room and left
Chinese New Year 2023 horoscopes predict difficult year for four signs
'Loner' jailed after taking hundreds of photos of women's bottoms
