These are the latest Liverpool ECHO headlines this morning.
18 criminals given long stretches by the courts
Every year, scores of criminals are locked up at Liverpool Crown Court, and the ECHO is often there when it happens.
More often than not, sentences handed down range from a handful of months to half a dozen years - but jail terms north of 20 years are reserved for only the most serious offences. Those facing justice in the last 12 months include murderers, rapists and paedophiles - often brought to justice thanks to the bravery of their victims.
The ECHO rounded 18 criminals given long stretches by the city's courts during 2022.
Read more here.
Merseyside couple killed in Australian helicopter crash named
A couple killed in a mid-air helicopter crash in Australia have been named by family.
Ron and Diane Hughes, 65 and 57, are believed to be from the Wirral. The couple died following a crash involving two helicopters on the Gold Coast, Australia on Monday, January 2.
Diane's brother shared a public Facebook post, which said: "The family will make a statement when we are ready. For those who don't know my sister and her husband where involved in the helicopter crash on the Gold Coast yesterday. We would also like to thank you all for the love and support we have received. We are truly humbled at this heartbreaking time."
Queensland Police said the crash happened at around 2pm when one helicopter was landing and another was taking off near Sea World Drive in Main Beach. One of the helicopters managed to successfully land on a sandbank.
Read more here.
Hearts 'broken' after dad died in horror crash on way to work
People have said their hearts are "broken" after a paramedic died in a horror crash on his way to work.
The man, named locally as Ben, was a paramedic who worked for North West Ambulance service. The 31-year-old died after a crash on Sunday, January 1 involving a Renault Scenic and Nissan Almera on Mossborough Road, in Rainford.
Ben had been driving the Nissan and despite the best effort of emergency services, he died. The driver and passenger of the Renault, a man and a woman, suffered serious injuries. They are not believed to be life threatening.
Friends and colleagues of Ben have taken to social media to express their condolences and share tributes to the paramedic. Jean Loyden Cooney said: "Stand down Ben. You served every single person well. You was a truly amazing colleague, friend, a boss dad to your kids and a husband to your loving wife.
Read more here.
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