It’s by no means an exhaustive compilation but these are the stories which were read the most online and you read them here first. And if you didn’t catch them first time round, now’s the chance to find out the quirkiest and most unusual stories covered by our reporters, in what has been a packed 2022 for news.
13. Love Island House
Blackpool’s answer to the Love Island villa was revealed. An old building on Empress Drive in North Shore had been transformed into a luxury retreat that was all about positive energy. The retreat, called Empress Hall, was aimed at groups of friends and colleagues who wanted to come together and take time out of their busy lives. It had a games room with a pool table, karaoke machine, and a home cinema and was all about having good times Photo: Olly Clark Photography
14. 'Banksy' mural
A mural in the style of Banksy appeared on house in Milbourne Street in Blackpool. The distinctive work of art was discovered on the side of a terraced home in Milbourne Street. It depicted a boy holding onto a yellow umbrella in the familiar style of the famous yet elusive artist whose identity remains a mystery. The artwork was not confirmed as an authentic Banksy Photo: Daniel Martino
15. Non Binary Gingerbread People
A bakery in Blackpool caused a stir on social media for selling ‘non-binary gingerbread people’. The biscuit – found at The Cottage Bakery in Hawes Side Lane – sparked a mixed response, with some backing the decision and others calling it the 'woke agenda'. Owner Paul Cook said it had actually taken people three years to notice the change after he started putting labels on them to display ingredients and people said it was wrong to call them men. Paul said. “So I had a chat with my printer about and he said, ‘Why don’t you call them non-binary?’ Photo: Daniel Martino