Growing up in a town like St Helens isn't always easy.
Sandwiched between two massive neighbours in Liverpool and Manchester, it can be easy to lose a sense of local identity and be swallowed up by the giants at each end of the East Lancs.
Despite this, there is no shortage of culture in the glass-making town, with those growing up in "Sintellins" having various rites of passage as they become an adult. The ECHO looked at seven things that everyone who grew up in St Helens has experienced.
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Struggling to explain where you're from while on holiday/ at university
This seems to be a common experience for anyone who doesn't live in a big, well known city. Whether it be meeting Brits at your holiday resort, or making friends on freshers week, the question "Where are you from?" can spark fear in those hailing from St Helens.
The choice usually comes down to claiming Liverpool or Manchester as your home, as people are more likely to have heard of them. Or those truly proud or their roots may heartily announce "St Helens", then most likely have to attempt to explain where that is- no doubt with a mention of the rugby team or Johnny Vegas.
"Climbing" Billinge Hill
Also known as Billinge Lump, Billinge Hill is not only the highest point in the St Helens borough - but the highest point in Merseyside.
Standing at 587 feet, Billinge Hill provides panoramic views across southwest Lancashire, North Wales, the Derbyshire Peak District and Winter Hill to the northeast.
Almost everyone in St Helens has walked up Billinge Hill at some point, and taken in the beautiful views from the top of the "lump".
Being spoilt for choice with the local pies
St Helens is not only known for its coal-mining roots, glassmaking heritage and the rugby - but has over the years become synonymous with some incredibly tasty pies - and you can't be a proud St Helens native without trying one.
There are many iconic and historic recipes that are still loved by the town today, such as Burchall's - the oldest surviving retailer in the town centre which is still serving up its much loved famous pork pies after 100 years.
Last year, residents were also reunited with the "original tastes" of Pimbletts as a new owner plans to bring the iconic brand back to the high street.
Seeing "Johnny Welly"
John Smith, more widely known as Johnny Wellies was a St Helens icon, well known and loved by people all over the town. It wasn't unusual to see Johnny pottering around the town centre.
Sadly, Mr Smith died last year, with hundreds of people lining the streets to remember the life of a true St Helens legend.
Former professional boxer Martin Murray was also among those who attended the church this morning and even participated in carrying John’s coffin into the service.
Feeding the ducks at Taylor Park
First opened to the public in 1893, Taylor Park originally formed part of Eccleston Hall Estate and is the largest Victorian park in the borough. It is ideal for scenic walks and is also a great place to take the kids thanks to its two playgrounds, café and picnic tables.
Whether it be students from nearby Carmel College, or those living in the nearby township of Eccleston, the park is often full of people sitting by the lake, feeding ducks- or just taking in the scenery.
Going to a Saints game
There are few things more closely tied to the identity of St Helens than rugby. The town is home to the most successful rugby league team of all time- affectionately referred to as the Saints.
Although football fans often dominate the region, St Helens has held onto a large number of its rugby fans- who flock to Langtree Park to cheer on their Saints every Friday.
Going to Earlestown market on a Friday
Officially part of St Helens borough, despite being in a separate town, Earlestown market is one of the oldest markets in the country, dating back over 700 years. Swathes of traders set up their stalls every Friday, selling a range of goods, from fresh meats to electronics.
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