I'VE just got back from a two-week holiday to find my inbox jammed with details of hundreds of interesting arts events taking place in Merseyside over the coming months. The countdown to Christmas is promising to be a busy - but fun - one for those of us who like to get out and make the most of all that is going on in our region.

Here are a few highlights:

Alice in Wonderland Magic Lantern Slides 1900-1925, © University of Exeter