FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10th August 2025
Photos Patrick Trollope & Pat Hughes
Liverpool was honoured to welcome Opal Suchata,(21) the reigning Miss World, who was visiting Kirkby’s own Charlotte Grant, Miss World England, for a heartfelt and memorable day in the city..
Their visit began at Zoe’s Place – now recently rebranded as Little Lights Baby Hospice – the only baby-specific hospice in the UK.
Little Lights provides exceptional professional and loving care for babies aged 0–5 years with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses. The hospice offers respite, palliative and end-of-life care in a secure, homely and nurturing environment, where the wellbeing and comfort of each child and their family is the highest priority. Facilities include physiotherapy, medical care, music therapy, sibling support, bereavement care, counselling, hydrotherapy, sensory rooms and complementary therapies – all delivered with a holistic approach.
During the visit, Opal and Charlotte met with staff, nurses, babies and their families, engaging warmly and personally with everyone they encountered. Both were visibly moved when visiting the hospice’s Bereavement Suite, and their joy was clear when joining the children in the play area – kneeling on the floor, laughing, chatting and playing. The scene was reminiscent of the late Princess Diana’s renowned compassion on similar visits.
Meeting the staff at Little Lights / Zoes place
“It was an absolute honour to welcome Opal to Liverpool and share such a meaningful day part of her UK Beauty with a Purpose tour. Visiting Little Lights Baby Hospice was truly humbling — seeing the dedication of the staff and the courage of the families is something neither of us will ever forget.” – Charlotte Grant, Miss England
Following this deeply emotional experience, the day continued with a cultural tour of Liverpool.
Highlights included an immersive Van Gogh exhibition at the Exhibition Centre, a panoramic Beatles City Sightseeing Bus Tour joined by the current and former Miss Ireland titleholders, and a sophisticated afternoon tea at The Bentley.
At the Beyond Van Gogh exhibition – currently in Liverpool until the 15th August
Caoimhe Kenny the newly crowned Miss Ireland said “ Spending the day in Liverpool with the incredible Opal, our reigning Miss World, was truly unforgettable. From exploring the city’s vibrant streets to sharing a beautiful afternoon tea at the Bentley , I was deeply inspired by her grace, kindness, and passion. The experience has ignited my excitement and determination to proudly step onto the Miss World stage next year, representing Ireland. Miss World is a celebration of inner beauty, strength, charity, community, and compassion.”
At The Bentley – which will host the Miss Liverpool City Region Final on Sunday 21st September 2025 – Opal was presented with a remarkable portrait by acclaimed artist Suzanne Bamber, who famously painted Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation portrait, now held in the King’s private collection at Buckingham Palace.
L-R Charlotte , Suzanne , with Miss World , Jas Gerhardt former Miss Ireland, Pat Hughes Miss Liverpool organiser and newly crowned Miss Ireland Caoimhe Kenny.
“Opal and Charlotte are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside,” said organisers. “Their warmth, grace and genuine care touched everyone they met. Liverpool will always remember their visit.”
To enter Miss Liverpool City Region complete the form on
www.missliverpool.com or www.missengland.info
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