The Challenge April 2018

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Issue: 370 April 2018

INSIDE THIS MONTH

COUNCIL PLANS NEW FUTURE FOR HISTORIC ESTATE Page 2

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY IN KNOWSLEY Pages 16-17

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GP SURGERY PLACED INTO SPECIAL “ MEASURES We ha ve practic told the e they mwhere ust impro placin ve and are g specia them into l meas ures

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ngland’s Chief Inspector of General Practice has rated Colby Medical Centre Ltd, based at The Bluebell Centre, in Huyton as Inadequate, and placed the practice into special measures following an inspection by the CQC in September.

Under CQC’s programme of inspections, all of England’s GP practices are given a rating in five key questions: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

The practice was rated as Inadequate for safe, and wellled, Requires Improvement for effective, and Good for caring, and responsive.

Professor Steve Field, Chief Inspector of general practice said: “We found that patients registered with Colby Medical Centre Ltd are not getting the high quality care which everyone should expect to receive from their GP. “Although we found pockets of good care at this practice, the quality of care was inconsistent and the practice has not improved in all of the areas we told them to do so in 2016.

“For example, the system to manage hospital

correspondence wasn’t effective or safe and was putting vulnerable patients at risk.

“We have told the practice where they must improve and are placing them into special measures to ensure action will be taken to improve the quality of care for patients.”

A full report of this inspection has been published on the CQC website at: http://www.cqc.org.uk/location /1-508240052.

Some of the areas where

CQC have told the practice they must improve: • Establish effective systems to make sure safe, good standards of care are upheld.

• Ensure safe treatment is provided in relation to the monitoring of emergency drugs, patients on high risk drugs, and the communication and management of correspondence with patients.

The service will be kept under review and if needed

could be escalated to urgent enforcement action.

Where necessary, another inspection will be conducted within a further six months, and if there is not enough improvement we will move to close the service by adopting our proposal to remove this location or cancel the provider’s registration.

Patients registered with the practices being placed into special measures should be

• Continued on page 2

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2 April 2018

COUNCIL PLANS NEW FUTURE FOR HISTORIC ESTATE Liverpool City Council has announced it is to launch a new investment drive to transform Croxteth Hall and Country Park into a major tourist attraction.

After undergoing a procurement process to find an external operator, the council has decided instead to keep the historic country house estate and develop a visitor and commercial strategy to grow its appeal.

The council, which has recently announced a new commercial approach to its parks, is aiming to develop the former home to the Earls of Sefton (who founded the Grand National) based along the National Trust model.

A report to Liverpool City Council’s cabinet on Friday 23 March recommended the authority undergo a major repair programme to the Grade II* listed house as well fund and develop a raft of income generating measures,

including: • A new food, drink and hospitality provision • Developing the current wedding market • Operating more frequent events including concerts, seasonal fairs and artisan markets • Improve facilities for car parking for both day-to-day park users and those attending events The hall and country park, which also accommodates an adventure playground, gift shop, aerial rope adventure course, horse riding centre and café, currently attracts in excess of 600,000 visits a year but these numbers could double under the new plan.

The city council already successfully manages historic buildings including the Town Hall and St George’s Hall, and in recent years has dramatically grown the events programme through a diverse range of cultural activities

from Disney Pixar animation to Christmas Markets.

As part of this invest to earn strategy the council will establish a new team of event, commercial and marketing professionals to maximise the impact of the investment and turn the 500 acre estate, which also boasts Liverpool’s largest park, into a profit-making attraction.

Another key appointment will be an estate manager

responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operation of the site including repair, maintenance and refurbishment of assets, managing relationships with existing and new tenants, leases and commercial uses on the site.

At the moment the estate costs the council approximately £1m a year, set against an annual income of £600,000, and the report recommends a fund be established to carry out the

works.

Discussions are also underway to relocate Myerscough College to a new educational centre which will free up 44 rooms and enable the council to further develop commercial events within the hall.

The college, which has use of the walled garden and the stable yard café, is also currently developing a new animal and equine educational centre.

GP SURGERY PLACED INTO SPECIAL MEASURES LINSKILLS SOLICITORS Benefit Fraud Specialists You may be entitled to free advice and assistance from a Legal Advisor if you are required to attend a DWP interview under caution and could be charged with a serious criminal offence.

Do not talk yourself into a criminal charge Contact our team of specialists on

0151 236 2224 For immediate assistance

• Continued from page 1 aware that a package of support is offered by NHS England and the Royal College of GPs to ensure that there are no immediate risks to patient safety at these GP practices whilst improvements are being made.

A spokesperson for NHS Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “The Care Quality Commission (CQC) carries out routine inspections of all GP Practices. Following a routine inspection in September 2017 Colby Medical Centre has been rated as ‘inadequate’ overall by the CQC in a report published

recently.

“As a result, the practice has been placed in special measures which means that it must improve in advance of a re inspection which will take place within six months.

As commissioner of GP services in Knowsley, the CCG’s priority is to ensure our patients have access to high quality and safe GP services and therefore the CCG will continue to work with the Practice team to ensure that the required improvements are made as quickly as possible.”

Sandra Kanczes-Daly, registered manager/lead clinician Colby Medical Centre said: “The CQC report was based on their findings during a visit to the Practice in

September 2017, the practice has already made some improvements and is committed to meeting the requirements of the improvement plan as a result of the CQC inspection as soon as possible.

“We will continue to work with our patient participation group and all patients to make sure their views are considered as we work to improve the practice and provide services which are of the highest possible standard.

“We apologise for any worry caused by the news of the inspection findings and if any of our patients have any questions or concerns we encourage them to contact us either by visiting the practice or by ringing us on 0151 244 4308.”

April 2018 3

A BOB BOX FOR ARCHBISHOP MALCOLM

Children from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Huyton, have made a BOB (Bat or Bird) Box for Archbishop McMahon to put up in the grounds of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.

The Cathedral is the latest venue to install one of these boxes, which are currently placed in Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, 10 Downing Street, Chequers and Kew Gardens among many other places.

This school-based project (winner of the Observer Ethical Award in 2011) is a response to Pope Francis’ call to all of humanity to care for our common home in his letter entitled ‘Laudato Si’. It was embraced by the whole of St Joseph’s community; with pupils, staff, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles involved in making a box for a bat or a bird.

Following training, led by Stephen Burrowes from Cafod and BOB Box’s inventor, family members were invited to come into

school and construct a BOB Box with their child for £10. From the money raised, 25% went straight back to Cafod to maintain the BOB Box initiative. The remaining 75% was retained by the school to invest in items from the Cafod World gifts catalogue.

Thanks to the enthusiasm of the children and the generosity of their families, St Joseph’s School raised £1,060.

The children in Year 6 were then given the task of calculating how much money the school could reinvest and which gifts they could buy to help people in under-developed communities overseas.

Archbishop Malcolm who was delighted to be part of the school’s said: “Pope Francis calls the earth our common home. The children at St Joseph’s have certainly got that message, they care for all creatures, great and small.

“The BOB Box which I received has been placed in the garden of Liverpool’s Metropolitan Cathedral”.

4 April 2018

LITTLEDALE FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 10 YEARS This year the Littledale Festival will be celebrating it’s 10th year - somewhat of an achievement considering it only started from a sports day/litter pick all those years ago.

The committee are hoping to make the event even more special than usual in view of this.

There will be all the regular popular activities including inflatables, side stalls, donkeys, bungee trampolines and

performances from local dance and community groups, and new this year lasertag, performances from Jimbo the Clown and a circus skills workshop.

The event is run entirely by volunteers from the Littledale & Shevington Residents’ Association for the benefit of local residents. This year's Littledale Festival will take place between 12 noon and 5pm on the Saxon Way public open space on Saturday 16 June.

SUSPECTED SCAM TELEPHONE CALL Residents are being warned about a suspected scam telephone call has been received by a resident in Knowsley.

The telephone caller named Clifford Blossom claimed to be from the Financial Ombudsman. The caller requested that the resident go to their local shop and purchase a £125.00 Paysafe card. Following which a solicitor by the name of Jennifer Smith will attend the property later that day to collect the Paysafe card and pay the resident £2,000.

The call was made from 020 7193 4913.

Trading Standards would advise not to purchase any Paysafe cards or agree to a call/visit from Clifford Blossom or Jennifer Smith or anything of that nature.

If any calls are received of this nature please contact Consumer Advice line on 03454 04 05 06 and report the incident

Liverpool Combined Authority approves £25m funding to boost key route network

HUYTON AFTERNOON TEA CELEBRATION IN LIBRARY Groups who meet in Huyton Library have enjoyed an afternoon tea celebration.

Many groups from the local community who regularly meet in branch, including Knit & Natter, Sewing Bee, Book Folding, Tea and Tech and the Reading Group were invited to the special event.

The library provides a welcoming space for the groups giving people a chance to meet and socialise with others while enjoying an activity.

Afternoon tea was a chance to bring all the groups together to thank them for the valuable contribution they all make to the success of the branch as a place for the local community and to recognise their amazing fundraising efforts.

Over the course of 2017, library groups across Knowsley raised £1444.57 for local

and national charities, a large part of which was raised from the sale of items produced by the Huyton Library groups.

Everyone who came along said what a wonderful time they had and that they really appreciated the effort the Huyton Library staff put into the event: “Huge thank you to all the staff at Huyton library for a wonderful afternoon. The afternoon tea was lovely, beautifully presented and delicious. All your hard work was greatly appreciated.

Another member of the group said: “We had a wonderful afternoon at Huyton library when we had afternoon tea provided by the wonderful staff. They went out of their way to ensure that we had a good time. The food was presented beautifully and a good time was had by all. Thank you”.

The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has approved a package of £25m funding to support 15 highway schemes that will make improvements to the city region’s Key Route Network.

The Key Route Network is made up of the strategic highway routes that are vital to growth in the Liverpool City Region (LCR). Responsibility for network was devolved to the Metro Mayor as part of the city region’s devolution agreement with central government.

The funding will support highways improvements in all six of the combined authority’s districts, as well as upgrades to digital connectivity and bus routes.

Schemes will also include work to improve the condition of the roads, including tackling pot holes, and to allow better traffic flow.

Steve Rotheram, Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor, said: “My key priority is to drive economic prosperity for the whole city region and ensuring that we have the right transport infrastructure in place is absolutely vital.

“We have carefully designed our key routes network investment programme to support the economic growth of our region.

“This latest wave of funding will improve the state of our roads and enable better traffic flow on key routes across our city region, bringing benefits for our residents, visitors and businesses.”

This £25 million investment is supported by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Single Investment Fund, funded by capital from central Government’s Local Growth Fund 3.

The package will see an investment of £1,138,500 for the M57 J6 Stonebridge Cross Access. By completing the previous partial signalisation on the southern section of this junction, and to compliment the cycling and walking provisions being implemented on Valley Road/Bewley Drive though other LGF funding, this scheme will signalise the remaining nodes of the junction and circulatory to increase capacity, reduced congestion and support sustainable modes of travel.

The scheme will also see an investment of £698,625 for the Connecting Kirkby scheme which will resolve capacity, severance, air quality and safety issues through a remodelling of the junction to provide additional lanes and improved controlled crossing facilities, together with improvements to the efficiency/operation of the traffic signals.

LONGER HOURS FOR MERSEYSIDE RECYCLING CENTRES Knowsley residents can recycle more from Sunday 1 April as the Household Waste Recycling Centres in Huyton and Kirkby open for an extra three hours every day.

The Recycling Centres at Wilson Road, Huyton L36 6AD and Depot Road Kirkby L33 3AR will be switching to their summer opening hours, meaning they’ll be open from 8.00am until 8.00pm, seven days a week.

If you’re planning to visit a Recycling Centre in a van or with a long trailer then you will need a Permit to get in. Permits can be obtained free of charge by calling

0151 236 0305 or visiting the Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority website.

PAGE MOSS BY-ELECTION RESULT Del Arnall of the Labour Party has been elected as a borough councillor in the Page Moss ward.

The full results of the by-election are: Del Arnall (Labour) – 657 votes Fred Fricker (UKIP) – 68 votes Kirk Anthony Sandringham (Green) – 74 votes Aaron Waters (Conservative) – 41 votes

April 2018 5

6 April 2018

DEFENCE HONOUR FOR EARL OF DERBY The Rt Hon The Earl of Derby, has been honoured for his support to the Armed Forces Community.

Lord Derby, who runs Knowsley Safari Park, Knowsley Hall stately home and several other Merseyside enterprises, has received a bronze award in the Defence Employers Recognition Scheme.

The scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The award honours those which have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, are armed forces-friendly, and open to employing reservists, veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses or partners The Earl, who was in the Grenadier Guards, also has strong family connections to the military. His uncle received the Military Cross in the Second World War, and his great grandfather was Secretary of State for War in the First World War while his two sons fought in the trenches.

As President of the Liverpool and Sefton, and the Knowsley Chambers of Commerce, Lord Derby says he recognises the qualities and transferrable skills that veterans and reservists bring to business.

He said: “Those who have served and are serving as reservists bring a whole new dimension to business and our communities. Whilst not always coming with industry knowledge, they are quick leaners and very creative, calm, confident, good communicators usually with great senses of humour and team loyalty. And of course, the notion of strategy, planning, process and objectives are second nature to all ranks.

“I am delighted that the Knowsley estate has achieved its bronze award in the Defence Employers Recognition Scheme.

“We will continue to support the armed forces community in every way we can and are already looking at how we can achieve the silver level.”

Operator appointed to run Prescot café An operator has been appointed to run the café and community space at Market Place in Prescot.

Gaynor La Rocca and her husband Francesco have been granted the lease to run the new premises as part of the £500,000 transformation of

Market Place being delivered through the Prescot Townscape Heritage Initiative.

The appointment follows a tender process earlier this year when Knowsley Council asked for bids from interested community groups or companies who could offer a high quality food and drink provision within the new café and bring the area to life with community activities and events.

Gaynor is the Artistic Director and CEO of Prescot based MATE Productions and Francesco, a property lawyer with Weightmans LLP, is also an actor with MATE Productions with a huge passion for food.

Gaynor has extensive experience of organising large and small scale highprofile creative events, most notably during her four years as a creative communities manager for Liverpool European Capital of Culture 2008.

In 2000 she established Merseyside Arts Theatre & Education (now MATE

Productions) in response to a local need for a high quality community theatre company that would provide exciting training opportunities and experiences both for aspiring professionals and talented community performers.

For the new venture at Market Place, Gaynor and Francesco will be supported by family with experience of running successful restaurants.

Her father in law, Filadelo La Rocca owned and ran a number of successful restaurants and cafes in Prescot, Rainhill and Widnes and opened Rocco’s an Italian restaurant on Eccleston Street in Prescot in the late seventies and ran this for over 10 years.

He has recently relocated back to the UK and will bring his many years of catering experience to support the initial set up and running of the café.

Gaynor said: “Francesco and I are overjoyed to be given this opportunity. We already have a long-standing relationship with Prescot

which we consider to be our home. Our vision is to create a community cafe, a meeting place for friends, a centre for activity, entertainment and conversation in the heart of Prescot.

“We plan to host a range of events, including comedy nights, poetry evenings, film nights, book clubs, arts and craft clubs, parents and toddler groups and in the outside space there is potential for open air cinema, markets, pop up performances, Christmas events, summer events – the possibilities are only limited by imagination.

“We want to work in partnership with the fantastic teams that are already doing so much in Prescot to develop a programme of creative community and social events that will animate and bring Market Place to life all year round.”

Work has started this month and is expected to be occupied by Gaynor and Francesco by September 2018.

IMPROVING YOUR COMPUTER SKILLS Do you want to get online and improve your computer skills? Look no further!

Villages Stockbridge are working alongside a brand new volunteer-led project called Include IT, which is helping people to get online across the Liverpool City Region.

Knowsley council are delivering in Stockbridge Village and surrounding areas. The project aim is to improve digital learning and skills across Liverpool.

There are different courses running across the area being delivered by

different training providers.

The criteria for eligibility is learners must be aged 30+ not retired and not in paid work.

If this is something that you may be interested and meet the criteria, email them at: hello@villages.org.uk with your name, address and up to date contact number and e-mail address to be contacted with further information.

Or you are welcome to drop into The Hub at 1 pm on Tuesdays to have a chat with one of their tutors.

April 2018 7

8 April 2018

Entertainment News TUESDAY 10 APRIL CYCLE FOR HEALTH 10am – 12pm Croxteth Hall and Country Park, Off Muirhead Avenue East, Liverpool L11 1EH. Meet up on Tuesday mornings for a gentle social cycle for an hour or so around Croxteth Country Park. Ideal for those looking for a little gentle exercise and getting back into cycling. You don't even need a bike, as you can book one on loan.

Contact Matty Ronneback for details 0770 289 9833 or 0151 233 6367.

WEDNESDAY 11 APRIL FROM PEN TO PAPER - FREE CREATIVE WRITING COURSES FOR ADULTS (AGES 16+) 1pm – 3pm Kirkby Gallery, The Kirkby Centre, Norwich Way, Kirkby L32 8XY. Friends of Kirkby Gallery & Prescot Museum have created a new scheme funded by the Knowsley Better Together fund. It is targeted at individuals on low incomes who have not participated in a creative project before. Through reading, discussion and workshop exercises; participants will be introduced to techniques that will develop story telling and poetry writing skills, encouraging individuals to develop their own ‘voice’ via the written word.

A small book of writings and poems by participants will be produced at the end of the project and launched at a celebratory event.

There will be tow separate courses, led by our writer in residence running for 10 weeks in both venues on Wednesdays in April 2018.

At Prescot Museum from 9.30-11.30am and Kirkby Gallery from 1.00-3.00pm.

Courses are free but Booking is essential.

To book on one of the courses please contact: Tina Ball 0151 443 5617 or tina.ball@Knowsley.gov.uk

FRIDAY 13 APRIL SHORT BREAKS MYA HALF TERM CHOICES KNOWSLEY - HALEWOOD (AGES 4-11) 10am – 4pm Halewood Leisure Centre, Baileys Ln, Halewool L26 0TY. These sessions are provided by Merseyside Youth Association (MYA) as part of the broader Short Breaks programme in Knowsley. Sessions are open to children and young people (as per ages in title) with Additional Needs who are Knowsley residents. The sessions are structured and based round the individual needs of each child and provide a variety of activities. The cost is £6 per day and children/young people must bring their own lunch. These sessions are referral only, for further information and to be referred please contact the Knowsley Short Breaks team shortbreaks@Knowsley.gov.uk or call 0151 443 5085/5086. There is only space for maximum of 20 so you MUST book, no one will be admitted if they just turn up.

SATURDAY 14 APRIL THE JUNGLE BOOK 2:30pm – 4:30pm Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park, Longview Drive, Huyton, L36 6EG. A wild musical for all the family based on Rudyard Kiplings famous book. Plenty of audience interaction a real fun loving performance for every age. Tickets : Adults £10 /Children & Concessions £ 8 MONDAY 16 APRIL FREE DOG HEALTHCHECK 11am – 3pm The Pavillion, Jubilee Park, Dinas Lane, Huyton, L36 2NW. For dog owners.... In partnership with the Dogs Trust your dog can get a FREE Healthcheck, FREE Microchip & Nail Clip!

CROXTETH RUN TOGETHER AND WALKING GROUP MAKING EXERCISE FUN! 6pm – 7pm Croxteth Hall and Country Park, Off Muirhead Avenue East, Liverpool L11 1EH. Mondays at 6pm Winter Meet L11 4SR Summer Meet Croxteth Park, in front of Croxteth Hall (By the benches) £2 per session. Vicky Unsworth (CiRF qualified) takes the group. It is mixed abilities from run/walking and everyone is included. The pace is based on your own effort.

Register to join the fun: https://runtogether.co.uk/groups/ TUESDAY 17 APRIL INTERMEDIATE WALKING - STADT MOERS 12.15pm – 3.45pm Stadt Moers Park Environment Centre, Pottery Lane, Whiston, L35

3RG. Intermediate walking 3-5 miles (approx. 3 hours) Please call 489 1239 for more information WEDNESDAY 18 APRIL FROM PEN TO PAPER - FREE CREATIVE WRITING COURSES FOR ADULTS (AGES 16+) 9:30am – 11:30am Prescot Museum, The Prescot Centre, Aspinall St, Prescot L34 5GA. Friends of Kirkby Gallery & Prescot Museum have created a new scheme funded by the Knowsley Better Together fund. It is targeted at individuals on low incomes who have not participated in a creative project before. Through reading, discussion and workshop exercises; participants will be introduced to techniques that will develop story telling and poetry writing skills, encouraging individuals to develop their own ‘voice’ via the written word. A small book of writings and poems by participants will be produced at the end of the project and launched at a celebratory event.

There will be tow separate courses, led by our writer in residence running for 10 weeks in both venues on Wednesdays starting in January and April 2018. Courses are free but Booking is essential. To book on one of the courses please contact: Tina Ball 0151 443 5617 or tina.ball@Knowsley.gov.uk THURSDAY 19 APRIL ADVANCED WALKING - STADT MOERS 12:15pm – 3:30pm Stadt Moers Park Environment Centre, Pottery Lane, Whiston, L35 3RG. Advanced walking 4-6 miles (approx. 3 hours) Please call 489 1239 for more information MINDFULNESS DRAWING 1pm – 3pm Hilltop Childrens Centre, Bedford Close, Huyton, L36 0XU. As we get older we lose confidence in our creativity. This course will enable parents to rediscover their creativity from when they were a child. For more information or to book your place, please call 0151 443 5226.

FRIDAY 20 APRIL MENTAL HEALTH COURSE - HILLTOP CC, HUYTON 9:30am – 11:30am Hilltop Childrens Centre, Bedford Close, Huyton, L36 0XU. This is a level 2 qualification aimed at learners looking to raise their awareness of mental health and the wide range of mental health conditions. This 30 week course is suitable for parents who wish to gain employment within the sector. Bookable course.

For more information call 0151 443 5301 SATURDAY 21 APRIL THE SAFARI KIDS CLUB (AGES UP TO 12YRS)

12pm – 3pm Stockbridge Village Neighbourhood Centre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village L28 1AB. Priced at £2.10 per child (discounts for families) and parents get in for FREE. Activities and fun for children up to 12yrs. Giant Bouncy Castle, Multi Sports, Arts and Crafts, Community Café, Monthly Movie Club, Cookery and so much more. Don't forget to bring your leisure pass!

Organised by the Stockbridge Community Intergeneration Project, for further details please contact Maria Branch, 07725 418637

CROXTETH HALL 5K PARKRUN 9:00am – 10:30am Croxteth Hall and Country Park, Off Muirhead Avenue East, Liverpool L11 1EH. Come along and take part in a free weekly 5K run and Croxteth Hall and Country Park.

The run caters for all ages and abilities in a relaxed but organised and timed manner each Saturday morning at 9am. Please follow the parkrun link http://www.parkrun.org.uk/croxtethhall/ for full details.

WEDNESDAY 25 APRIL HOLDING YOUR BABY IN MIND (PEEP) POSTNATAL HILLTOP CC, HUYTON 10am – 12pm Hilltop Children’s Centre,Bedford Close, Huyton, L36 0XU. Come along to 8 sessions (4 before & 4 after your baby is born) to share ideas and find out more about ways to help your new baby, how babies develop, learn, communicate and thrive. Different ways of bonding with baby i.e. secure attachment as well as shaping the future of your baby's emotional and physical development and behaviour. APPOINTMENT ONLY This is a parenting group for parents to attend four weeks during pregnancy and four weeks post birth. The group helps parents to build a secure attachment with their baby & ‘Hold the baby more in mind’. The group will help you find out more about how babies learn & thrive; how to bond with your baby & help you build your confidence as a parent. Places MUST be booked.

For more information and to book your place please call 0151 443 5301 or Allison on 07769234394

FREE CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES IN KNOWSLEY’S LIBRARIES There’s lots going on for children in Knowsley’s libraries over the holidays and all the activities are free!

With a variety of sessions, from spring crafts and board games to magic shows and zoolab minibeasts, there’s something for children of all ages.

Of course there’s also a huge range of exciting story and information titles for children to choose from, perfect for enjoying over break.

Halewood Library Monday 9 April - Make a Bunny Mask 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Make a bunny mask and library book mark. Plus word searches, puzzles, and colouring. For all ages Tuesday 10 April - Spring Collage 11am to 12.30pm. Join in the spring collage fun and get your work displayed. For all ages

Friday 13 April - Make a Viking mask 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Get creative with your mask-making and make a door hanger too. Plus word searches, puzzles, and colouring too!

For all ages Huyton Library Monday 9 April - Circuit Boards 2.30pm to 4pm. Make a selection of circuit boards. Which one will be your favourite? For over 7s Tuesday 10 April - Duck craft 2.30pm to 4pm. Have a quacking time making your own duck. For all ages Thursday 12 April - Spring flowers 11am to 12.30pm. Craft fun with flowers and a vase to put them in too. For all ages Friday 13 April - Bug craft

2.30pm to 4pm Make your own creepy-crawly. For all ages

11am to 12pm. Plenty of joining-in to be done at this early years session For under 5s

Kirkby Library Tuesday 10 April - Spring Craft 3pm to 4pm A surprise spring-themed craft. For over 5s

Friday 13 April - Zoolab 11am to 12pm. Get hands-on with nature with the world of minibeasts. For over 5s

Friday 13 April - Spring Wreath 3pm to 4pm Get creative and make a wreath to celebrate the new season. For all ages Prescot Library Monday 9 April - Sowing seeds 3pm to 4pm Have fun planting seeds and decorating a plant pot. For over 5s Thursday 12 April - Stories and rhymes

Stockbridge Village Library Tuesday 10 April - Make a Board Game 2pm to 3pm. Create your own board game for fun. For over 5s Friday 13 April - Birds nest craft 11am to 12pm. Get creative with these wonderful nests. For all ages All activities are free!

April 2018 9

A treat for movie buffs at the 2018 Prescot Festival A Merseyside arts festival will pay tribute to a late film director and a living local playwright later this year.

Educating Rita, based on the comedy drama by Whiston-born Willy Russell, screens as part of the 14th Annual Prescot Festival of Music & the Arts on Thursday 21 June. The 1983 film stars Julie Walters and Michael Caine, and earned them each an Oscar nomination, a BAFTA and a Golden Globe.

Celebrated director Lewis Gilbert—whose other hit movies included the James Bond films You Only Live Twice, The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker— passed away on 23 February, at the impressive age of 97.

The showing follows three sellout screenings of Willy Russell’s Our Day Out at previous Prescot Festivals.

There’s plenty for cinema buffs in the rest of the 10-day festival.

Daniel Bishop, Associate

Organist of Liverpool Cathedral, will include his unique twist on some classic film themes as part of his concert on Sunday 17 June.

And BOST, one of the North West’s most renowned musical theatre companies, will sing songs from your most beloved movie musicals on Saturday 23 June.

Other highlights include a spectacular opening night with Swingshift Big Band, appearances from Wingates Brass Band and Maghull Wind Orchestra, and a ‘Come & Sing’ performance of Fauré’s stirring Requiem to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War One. “With film, musical theatre, jazz, poetry, classical and choral music, poetry, painting and more on the programme, we can

safely say we are fulfilling our mission to encompass every aspect of the arts this year,” said Artistic Director Dr Robert Howard.

The festival runs from Friday 15 to Sunday 24 June 2018 in the historic Lancashire town of Prescot, Merseyside. Full programme information is online at www.prescotfestival.co.uk, and tickets go on sale on 1 May on the website and at Poco Coffee (30 Eccleston Street, Prescot, L34 5QJ).

Grace reaches for the stars Budding Fazakerley actress Grace Hillier is following her dream of becoming an actress after her recent appearance in her first television advertisement in the Better by Bus transport campaign.

Grace, aged 13 is now about to undertake her first film role for Elegance Productions/Foot in the Door Films in a feature film entitled: 12 days in September.

Filmed on location around Cheshire from this weekend, Grace will be playing the role of ‘Annie Larkin’ and will working alongside local artistes Louis Emerick, Suzanne Collins, Marcus Collins, Bernie Foley and Lindzi Germain.

Directed by actor and award winner Leon Lopez, the film is due for national release later on this year.

Grace has been acting, dancing and singing since the age of 6 and has already appeared in over 25 stage performances in theatres across the North West, whilst continuing to receive around 20 hours per week stage/dance training as member of the Elite Performers Programme at Rare Studio Liverpool. She is also studying for her LAMDA examinations at St Edwards College.

Although extremely busy, Grace always has a smile on her face and keeps up with all of her school work, with a 100% punctuality and attendance record.

Something new from Catholic Pic

PIC DAYS 2018 Carnforth Departing 6th June 10am from St George’s Hall, Lime Street (also Burtonwood pick-up) The journey will take approximately 2 hours. You will be able to take in the scenery and promenade and maybe take a boat ride, do some walking and have a lovely lunch in one of the many eating places.

Clitheroe Departing 26th June 10am from St George’s Hall, Lime Street (also Burtonwood pick-up) The journey will take approximately 2 hours, there are some wonderful family owned shops in Clitheroe with exciting things to buy.

Grasmere Departing 10th July 10am from St George’s Hall, Lime Street (also Burtonwood pick-up) We arrive in Grasmere around 12ish. You will be able to take in the beautiful lakes and mountains of the Lake District along with Beatrix Potter’s house or do some easy walking or visit the bookshop and relax in the beautiful surroundings.

Ness Gardens Departing 17th July 10am from Lime Street Enjoy a leisurely walk around the beautiful gardens, visit the shop and garden store and treat yourself to a lovely lunch in the restaurant.

ALL PLACES £15 Please call 0151 733 5492 to book

10 April 2018

Education News

THE NEED FOR SPEED

Schoolchildren celebrate world speed record hero

Over 400 local schoolchildren from Knowsley and Sefton came together to perform an unforgettable celebration of music, song and dance.

Sefton & Knowsley Youth (SKY) Music Hub hosted a special musical event on Friday 16 March to celebrate Sir Henry Segrave’s world land-speed record, which took place in Southport.

In March 1926, racing driver Sir Henry captured the land-speed record on Ainsdale beach in Southport. In his Sunbeam Tiger car, Sir Henry reached a speed of more than 152 mph – seizing the world land-speed record from his rival.

The former fighter pilot was the first person to hold both a land speed and water-speed record simultaneously, and

was the first person to travel at 200 mph in a land vehicle.

His extraordinary achievements were celebrated through the medium of song, dance and art, as 400 schoolchildren from eight local schools joined together to perform ‘A Musical Celebration’.

Taking place at The Auditorium at Echo Arena Liverpool, children performed a number of songs inspired by speed, movement and different rhythms.

The event featured instrumental music, original songs, dance performances and the premier massed performance of ‘Speed’ by Stuart Overington.

In 2016, the SKY Music Hub vocal team began to lead the project inspired by the 90th anniversary of Sir Henry’s land-

Knowsley Community College highlighted as the best in Liverpool for pass rates Newly published National Achievement Rate Tables reveal that for the second year running, Knowsley Community College is the best further education college in Liverpool for best overall vocational pass rates.

Compiled by the Education and Skills Funding Agency, the statistics also place KCC in the top three best further education colleges for pass rates in the Liverpool City Region for school leavers

aged 16-18.

The results highlight the continued success of students who completed a vocational qualification at Knowsley Community College in 2016 – 2017.

Gill Banks, principal at Knowsley Community College commented on this achievement saying: “The latest figures truly highlight the exceptional hard work and dedication provided by our teaching staff and students, to remain focused

on achieving success. KCC truly is a great place to study and topping pass rate tables in the region goes to prove this.”

The new figures come after KCC was identified as being in the top 5% of General Further Education College’s in the country for its performance in maths following the recent release of The Market Intelligence Data Exchange Service (MiDES) English and maths Progression Report.

speed record. Over the past two years the SKY Music Hub vocal team has been working with schools across the region, with the project now coming to an exciting finale.

Participating schools included Westvale Primary (Kirkby), St Luke’s Catholic Primary School (Prescot), St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School (Huyton), St John’s CE Primary (Waterloo), St Nicholas CE Primary (Blundellsands), Our Lady of Compassion (Formby), Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School (Southport) and Melling Primary School (Melling) and Green Park Primary School (Maghull).

Dancers from the Merseyside Youth Association (MYA) took centre stage

alongside talented instrumentalists, while artwork created by students from Presfield High School & Specialist College was presented on the night.

Composer, arranger and musical director Andy Smith also created a grand finale which involved all 400 participants.

Chris Lennie, lead of SKY Music Hub said: “The event was a great success and brought together the young people of Knowsley and Sefton to celebrate their musical achievements. It was also a fantastic way to celebrate motor racing record breaker Sir Henry Segrave!

“It has been great to work in collaboration with all our partners which has inspired so many children to pick up an instrument, sing, dance and create art.

April 2018 11

‘BEE-LIEVE’ IN YOURSELF

Teacher tells budding authors to ‘bee-lieve’ in themselves There is a real buzz of excitement at schools in the region. For a Halewoodborn teacher has just published his first insect-inspired book!

Entitled ‘Arthur Bee Has A Secret’, the book tells the tale of a little bee with a secret that he’s too embarrassed to talk about. It’s a secret that bees aren’t expected to have, and the whole beehive is affected. How will Queen Bee react when she finds out Arthur’s secret?

Arthur Bee was created by school cover supervisor, Shaun Millea, who was inspired to put pen to paper after his own son’s experience with hay fever.

The father of two, from Halewood, said: “My son is

now 23 but when he was seven he had very bad hay fever. He couldn’t go anywhere near a field or flower without having an awful reaction. It got so bad that he even ended up at A&E - unable to breath with severe eye pain.

“He would get very upset as he couldn’t play ‘on the field’ with his friends in the summer.

However, he was very good at the time at karate.

“So, I made up the story of a bee that had hay fever and so unable to do all the normal bee things but he was good at making honey in the laboratory. I

was just trying to find a scenario that my son could relate to.”

After writing the story many years ago, 52-year-old Shaun put it away in the attic with all his other childhood memories until he re-discovered it recently. He dusted it off and gave it a new lease of life.

The 52-year-old recalled: “One day I found it, re-read it, liked it and then typed it out. I drew my own rough illustrations and used it in school, reading it to the children. They all seemed to enjoy it.”

A chance meeting with renowned Liverpool author, Jude Lennon, who was visiting Banks Road School were Shaun teaches led to him getting his work published.

He said: “She was very supportive and put me in touch with Sue Miller of Team Author UK. I had a meeting with her, showed her my rough version of the story and she liked it.

“That was in September 2017 then in February 2018 it was published. Seeing it in print is one of the most special moments I’ve had - I couldn’t stop smiling!”

Shaun revealed: “The schoolchildren come to me constantly telling me how much they enjoy reading about Arthur and his friends. I really enjoy it when they tell me that they want to write a book. I love that!

“Words are everything. All people especially children - need to learn to love books and reading for their development and learning.

“The more they read the more they

“

I drew my own rough illustrations and used it in school, reading it to the children

understand, it helps with their vocabulary and writing. Reading helps to educate children on issues in life without them realising it.”

On sale through Amazon, the school children have been buying Shaun’s book in droves and he has been signing lots of copies.

Shaun is busy penning his next book.

Said Shaun: “I’ve written four more books and another that I’m working on now.

Hopefully my next book will be Peter Peregrine’s Problem.

“This is finished and when I’m ready I’ll send it off to the publisher to look at.

“I’m also excited about a new character who appears briefly in a book called Wisho Land. His name is Mr Chakrabarti.

“He later has his own couple of books, Mr Chakrabarti's Emporium. It’s about the adventures that come with each purchase from his ‘emporium.’”

Shaun has lots of words of encouragement for other budding authors: “Look around you at situations and people, everywhere you look there is a character or story right in front of you.

“Have a pen and pad with you all the time, sometimes ideas pop into your head and if you don’t write them down, you forget them.

“Don’t let anybody put you off or put your work down. It’ll be better than even you think, keep going, don’t give in.

BEE-LIEVE in yourself!”

”

ADVENTURE BABIES the award winning story and sensory adventures are coming to Liverpool!

4 Week introductory course £28 TUESDAY 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd May - Aigburth Cricket Club L19 3QF WEDNESDAY 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd May - New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre THURSDAY 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th May - Prescot Town Hall L34 5QX FRIDAY 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th May - St Nicolas’ Church, Blundellsands

Help your little one fall in love with books and reading whilst positively stimulating all of their senses on one of our magical reading adventures.

Adventure Babies will bring brilliant books to life through interactive storytelling, sensory props, messy play, lights and much more. They also help develop vital early language and communication skills, support physical development, have fun in messy play that you don’t have to clear up after!

Who are they?

Elaine Doran has been a music teacher for 12 years, Elaine said: “When I had my first child, Layla, I loved reading with her. She adores reading and has an amazing imagination, reenacting them in her play. It was with my second daughter Heidi that I discovered Adventure Babies classes. I knew from the first class that I just had to do this for myself.”

Catherine Knox comes from a counselling background working with them in a listening environment. “I have two boys who are both almost grown up at 19 and 13-years-old. When they were younger they both loved nothing more than a snuggle and story time, and now years later they both love books”

12 April 2018

Education News LEARNING BY NUMBERS

St John Fisher Primary School, Knowsley Village is celebrating after they achieved the Gold LCQM (Liverpool Counts Quality Mark) accreditation.

The school accessed the award via School Improvement Liverpool and member of their team come in to assess their provision and plans at the end but the initiative is fully led by staff at our school.

Headteacher, Michelle Forrest said: “We have many events that helped us to achieve Gold LCQM including maths champions, we have eight maths champions in KS2 who lead across the curriculum in school.

“They are responsible for assessing what maths we have on display on a weekly basis and reminding staff if they haven’t updated their ‘How I’ve used Maths this Week’ signs on classroom and office doors!

“Our maths champions have also received training from our deputy head for leading maths games and challenges and they run after school ‘Fun Maths’ clubs for KS1 and KS2 children.

“We recently held a ‘Real Life Maths Day’ in school where we invited a number of parents and other members of our community in to talk about how they used maths in their job and how maths helped them to progress in their careers.

“We had a doctor, firefighter, nurse, air cabin crew, a jockey (Franny Norton), radio presenter (Helen Jones BBC Radio Merseyside), vet, debt advisor, chef and business manager. All of these visitors led sessions with the children and answered questions from them.

“We also wrote letters to a number of famous people to ask them how they used maths in their jobs and so far have received replies from Jurgen Klopp, Theresa May and Andrew Schofield.

“A similar question on our twitter account also prompted replies from the authors Anthony Horowitz and Francesca Simon.

“There has definitely been an impact in school both in raising the profile in maths and also in children seeing the importance of it in ‘Real Life’. The LCQM has helped us as a school to make maths part of our entire curriculum in a way that we haven’t done before.

“Going forward, we will be expanding the role of our maths champions and teaching some of our maths objectives through different subjects for example, when children learn about Roman numerals as a maths objective, we will teach it during their history topic of the Romans.

“This makes it more memorable and shows children the link between maths and our world”.

EGG-CELLENT FUNDRAISING EFFORTS BY RAINFORD HIGH

Students at Rainford High have held their annual Easter Challenge in a bid to raise money and collect Easter eggs for local charities.

The school set an initial target of £1000 and aimed to gather over 450 Easter eggs.

Staff and students from Year 7 to Sixth Form, took part in the challenge and raised an impressive total of £1,025 and accumulated 476 chocolate eggs.

In addition, Rainford High held a ‘wear your trainers to school’ day which enabled students to come in their own trainers in exchange for a monetary donation.

Their hard work will benefit ten local

charities; Willowbrook Hospice, Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice, The Hope Centre, Teardrops, Tough Tommy’s Travels, The Smile Fund and Chrysalis Centre for Change, as well as St Helens Young Carers, Rainford Victoria Care Home and St Helens Hall and Lodge Care Home.

Ian Young, principal at Rainford High, said: “Our Easter Challenge has become a popular event in the school calendar. It is fantastic to see students and staff come together and work towards raising money and donating gifts for vital causes in the area.

“We hope our efforts can help make a difference.”

April 2018 13

KNOWSLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BEST IN LIVERPOOL FOR OVERALL * VOCATIONAL PASS RATES Apply now to secure your place this September. *National *N ational Achievement Achievvement R Rate ate T Tables ables a published by the D Department epartm ment for E Education ducation and Skills F Funding unding A Agency. gencyy.

0151 015 51 477 5850 www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk w www .knowsleyco ollege.ac.uk //knowsleycollege know wsleycollege

14 April 2018

PRIMARY PUPILS HAVE LESSONS IN AIMING HIGH Schools to broaden jobs horizons early in first scheme of its kind in the UK Primary school children are to be linked with supportive communities of volunteers from the world of work who can broaden their jobs horizons and boost their aspirations for the future.

The innovative programme is the first of its kind in the country to work with primary students in this way. An initial pilot is taking place in eight schools in Knowsley, an area chosen because of its good primary schools which service wards of significant deprivation.

Run by the national education charity Future First, the scheme will help each participating school to establish a supportive network of former students and volunteers who will return to the classroom to share their experiences of the working world with current pupils.

Building on the charity’s already successful work in more than a thousand secondary schools and colleges across Britain, the programme will help primary schools for the first time to harness the time, talent and resource of their former students.

During this academic year, Future First will deliver a series of four workshops with Year 5 pupils, supported by alumni and volunteers in a range of jobs.

Each session will be designed to broaden students’ aspirations about the opportunities available to them after school and will culminate with a visit to a local employer to see the world of work

first hand.

Future First is calling for supporters of the schools to sign up and support the programme.

Former students and friends of the school, including parents, grandparents and governors, are all encouraged to volunteer their support at http://www.futurefirst.org.uk/register.

Volunteers can help the programme by participating in one or more workshops, sharing their experience of life after school with current pupils.

Future First believes every state school, primary and secondary, should be supported by an alumni community which can have a deep and sustained impact on current students’ aspirations and ideas about their futures. This programme will deliver that by ensuring children think about their career options early.

Future First chief executive Matt Lent said: “It’s hard for young children to understand the connection between their school studies and the world of work.

“The importance of engaging children early in their lives about life after school was demonstrated by the number of schools which applied to take part in this pilot.

“Our work in secondary schools has already shown that relatable role models can have an enormous positive influence on the confidence and motivation of young people.

Future First’s primary schools project will build on its successful work harnessing the skills of alumni to support current students in more than a thousand secondary schools.

“This new initiative will take these opportunities to primary pupils for the first time ensuring all children have the chance to succeed regardless of their background.”

Schools taking part are Plantation Primary School, Prescot Primary School,

Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School. Stockbridge Village Primary School, St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, St Mark’s Catholic Primary School, St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Junior School and St Michael and All Angels Primary School.

April 2018 15

‘FLAG IT AND BAG IT’ EVENT IN PRESCOT

Manager Andrew Hughes with George Howarth MP and local councillors at the community fund launch

NEW COMMUNITY FUND FOR KIRKBY LAUNCHED A new £50,000 community fund launched in Kirkby.

The Kirkby Neighbourhood Community Fund is now open for applications from local groups for funding for projects and initiatives relating to health and wellbeing, environmental and community projects in and around the Kirkby area.

The fund will provide up to £50,000 a year for the next 30 years for community groups, charities and projects operating in Northwood, Cherryfield, Shevington, Whitefield and Prescot North (Knowsley Village).

They will be eligible to apply for grants of anything between £1,000 and £20,000 to support their projects.

The Kirkby Neighbourhood Community Fund has been launched to support community, health and wellbeing and environmental projects closest to operations at the Knowsley Rail Loading Transfer Station.

The fund was part of the contractual agreement with Merseyside Energy Recovery Limited (MERL) who have been appointed by Merseyside Recycling and

Waste Authority to treat Merseyside and Halton Borough Council’s residual waste.

MERL recognises that its operations at Kirkby come with obligations to the local community and this fund will help to fulfil its responsibilities as a good neighbour to local communities.

The fund was launched at the new visitor facility at the Knowsley Rail Loading Transfer Station on the Knowsley Industrial Estate. Merseyside’s residual household waste is transported from here

by SUEZ by rail to its energy-from-waste facility at Wilton on Teesside.

Once waste arrives at the facility it is used to generate enough electricity to power over 63,000 homes – waste that would otherwise be sent to landfill.

Andrew Hughes, contract manager at SUEZ said: “Merseyside Energy Recovery Limited and SUEZ are delighted to be a good neighbour and contribute back to the local community.”

The deadline for applications is 5 June 2018, 5pm. Application packs can be downloaded from www.suezmerseyside.co.uk

Hospice nominated for BMJ awards A hospice team’s efforts have been recognised with a nomination for a leading national award for their work in managing delirium amongst patients receiving end of life care.

Willowbrook Hospice, which cares for people with life limited illnesses across St Helens and Knowsley is one of only five UK hospices shortlisted in the palliative and hospice care team category in the British Medical Journal’s 2018 awards.

The nomination acknowledges the work that Dr Paula Powell, Willowbrook’s clinical lead palliative medicine, and her team have been doing on the THINK delirium project

whereby staff are trained to recognise and manage one of the most common symptom in palliative care, according to best practice guidance.

Paula said: “The project has been a real team effort and has also drawn on the feedback from patients on how best to give information. As clinical lead I am delighted that the hard work of the whole team has been recognised as we continue to strive to provide the best possible care for patients of Willowbrook Hospice.”

The BMJ Award winner will be announced May 10 in London after a further assessment of the nominated teams.

A ‘Flag it and Bag it’ community event was recently organised at Eaton Street Park, Prescot to highlight the dangers of people not cleaning up after their dogs.

The event was organised by The Friends of Eaton Street Park as part of the Keep Britain Tidy Great Spring Clean.

Eaton Street Park is a well used community resource but an increasing amount of dog poop had appeared in this beautiful green space.

Dog faeces is one of the most common carriers of whipworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, parvo, corona, giardiasis, salmonellosis, cryptosporidiosis and others.

Unless cleaned up, the decay of the faeces produces nutrients for weeds and algae that overtake water and limit the amount of light that can oxegenate the water which decreases oxygen levels enough for some fish and sea food to be

asphyxiated. This risk, prompted a clean up.

The Friends of Eaton Street Park formed a line and walked across the park placing flags next to any litter or dog poop. When they reached the other side of the park, photographs were taken to be used in educating people and disuading them from these unacceptable behaviours of not cleaning up after their dogs. Then a pre- selected group bagged up the poop and collected the flags.

A spokesperson from The Friends of Eaton Park said: “Our green spaces are a massive resource and so well used by our communities. We need to look after them for everyone to enjoy. We have supported residents with ‘litter picks’ in helping them maximise the potential of the spaces that are important to them.

“I would like to thank everyone who gave up their time today to be part of this initiative”.

ART COURSES FOR CHILDREN Due to popular demand, Kirkby Gallery is introducing a new range of art courses for adults and children.

The course of seven workshops

Man charged with dangerous driving following scrambler bike incident Merseyside police has charged a man with dangerous driving and other offences following a scrambler bike incident in Huyton in February.

At around 5pm on Sunday, 4 February, a man was sighted by the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter driving on and off pavements in the Huyton area. He was seen to abandon the bike on Whitelodge Avenue and was detained by officers.

20-year-old Ryan Legon from Paxton Road, Huyton was charged with dangerous driving, using a motor vehicle without insurance and driving without a licence.

provides a fun and structured introduction to drawing and painting using a wide range of media and methods for young people 8-13 years.

It will encourage children to experiment and learn new ways of harnessing their creativity.

The courses cost £30 per child and are payable in full at the first workshop.

Places are limited so please book in advance.

All materials are provided - the children just need to turn up and have fun!

Bridge Road, Prescot T: 0151 345 6011 www.stationcoffeehouse.co.uk Tea and Coffee • Lunch • Bistro

16 April 2018

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY IN KNOWSLEY Knowsley Chamber of Commerce celebrated International Women’s Day at the Suites Hotel Knowsley and were delighted to invite Molly Harvey to this year’s event as the guest speaker.

Molly has a no-nonsense, thought provoking approach combined with speaking from the heart. The gift of making the complex simple has allowed her to become recognised as a leading authority on leadership and cultural transformation.

By speaking to corporations around the world such as Bank of America, 3M and Santander together with over 500 other leading organisations worldwide, a key part of Molly’s experience is the ability to question and provoke audiences to think differently about the way they work and live.

Currently Molly is an advisor on the board of the Global Angels Foundation which is an international charity transforming disadvantaged communities across the world.

Over the years she has given keynote addresses on leadership at Universities such as Liverpool University and Liverpool Management School, Molly first spoke at the United Nations in New York in 2006 and then again in 2007.

Being a best-selling author of eight books, with 23+ years’ experience of engaging people, companies and communities Molly has produced a range of E-books, CD’s and Podcasts.

Lesley Martin-Wright, CEO of Knowsley

Chamber said: “It was a joy so see so many delegates supporting our Knowsley Chamber Women in Business Network. Our special guest and keynote speaker, Molly Harvey, really helped us to focus on International Women’s Day. “Reflecting on modern leadership characteristics, Molly gave a practical perspective into the skills, qualities and attributes that we can all develop to become

better leaders.

“The session was both thought provoking and interactive and as a result I’m delighted to say that one of the outcomes is that we are establishing a mentoring group for women in business.

“If you are interested in joining the group then contact Sheila Toft here at Knowsley Chamber”.

The event was sponsored

by Natwest.

Molly Harvey’s speech was on the theme of leadership

Molly Harvey’s talk was well received

Guests used the time between courses to network

April 2018 17

Elaine Clements (QVC)

Kim Meadows (NatWest)

Sue Dunphy and Abigail Winstanley (both Villages Housing Association) and Ruth Smart (Tranect Ltd)

Lesley Martin-Wright, Molly Harvey and Sheila Toft

Lesley Martin-Wright introduces keynote speaker Molly Harvey

Women from across the region attended the lunch event

Lesley Martin-Wright, Molly Harvey and Sheila Toft

18 April 2018

April 2018 19

GET IN THE SADDLE FOR WILLOWBROOK’S RIDE 45 CYCLING CHALLENGE! Registration is now open for Willowbrook Hospice’s 5th annual sponsored cycle challenge on Sunday 15 July!

Starting and finishing at Rainford High School, Ride 45 is an amazing 45 mile cycle challenge through some of the most scenic countryside in Merseyside, Wigan and West Lancashire.

Whether you’re a keen cyclist, an amateur rider or just looking to get fit for summer, Ride 45 is the challenge for you!

Entry is £20 per person and cyclists must be over 14 (with those under 16 being accompanied by an adult over the age of 18).

For more information or to register please visit http://www.willowbrook.org.uk/event/ride45/

CATHEDRAL MARKS CENTENARY OF KEY WW1 BATTLE An exhibition will open this week to mark the centenary of a World War One battle which was won by soldiers from across the North West of England, including Merseyside.

Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral will host the FREE exhibition, which commemorates how the Lancashire Territorials halted part of the 1918 German ‘Spring offensive’ which threatened to destroy the British Army.

A German victory might have led to a retreat similar to that suffered at Dunkirk 22 years later.

The courage of the Territorials of the 55th (West Lancashire) Division during the defence of Givenchy, and their

ability to learn the lessons of previous battles proved to be what some have called the turning point of World War One. Visitors to the cathedral, which hosts a memorial to the 55th Division, can view the FREE exhibition from Monday 9 April, to Monday 16 April, during its opening hours 8am to 5pm.

Major Paul Knight, of the Army’s headquarters in the North West, who helped to organise the exhibition, said: “Not many may have heard of the defence of Givenchy, but it was critical: even one of the German sources says that this is the point at which the Germans lost the First World War.”

KNOWSLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE LAUNCHES NEW DENTAL COURSE Knowsley Community College has launched an exciting new Dental Nursing course in response to the growing demand of industry professionals.

The level 3 Advanced Diploma in Dental Nursing will help students take their first steps towards a career in the dental industry. The qualification recognised by the General Dental Council, will allow students to work with industry specialists focusing on direct, chair side work and providing support during a range of dental treatments to gain a strong understanding of dental equipment, instruments and materials.

The dental industry is an increasingly competitive and expanding profession and in the UK alone is worth around £9 billion. Dental nurses assist dentists with all aspects of patient care, from sterilising instruments and recording patient information to passing instruments and participating during advanced, specialist treatment.

Clare Webster, head of curriculum, said: “Dental nursing has become an increasingly popular career choice over the past few years and this new course is an excellent opportunity for those who are looking to launch a career in dentistry”.

The knowledge and theory behind dentistry will be provided once a week within the classroom at Knowsley Community College. In addition to this, students will gain valuable work experience within a local dental practice four days a week.

Students who successfully complete the course will be able to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and be open to a range of work options and settings including careers in general dental practices, hospitals, community dental services and universities.

For more information about the Dental Nursing course or to apply, please visit www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk/dentalnursing

Local man’s role in saving the war Harry Leyland was a 22 year old Sapper in 422nd Field Company, Royal Engineers, one of three field companies in 55th Division. Before the war, he had been a clerk in the ‘wire works’ at Prescot, later BICC. At 2 pm on 9 April 1918, the 422nd moved to Le Hamel as part of the force sent to block the Germans who were advancing through the overwhelmed Portuguese Division. They dug in and prepared a number of bridge for demolition. It was probably here that Leyland was killed with nine others from his company. He is buried in Goree Cemetery and is also remembered in St Mary’s Church and the BICC Memorial, both in Prescot.

In 1914, there were two RE West Lancashire Field Companies, based in St Helens and Widnes, but these grew to five throughout the war. Three served with the 55th Division, one with the 57th Division also on the Western Front and one spent the war in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Today, there are still part-time Royal Engineers in the North West. The modern unit is 75th Regiment. Its headquarters is in Warrington and there are Field Squadrons in Birkenhead and Failsworth.

Catholic Pic Retreat/Break Father Peter Morgan Parish Priest of Saint Anne & Saint Bernards Church, Overbury Street, Liverpool 7 will lead us on a spiritually uplifting experience at the beautiful retreat centre of Minsteracres.

Visiting Lindisfarne – Holy Island – Durham Cathedral and York Tuesday 24th – Friday 27th April 2018

Cost £325 Please call 0151 733 5492 for details and itinerary

Holy Island, courtesy of Kathleen Doyle

P LEA B OO K S E N OW TO D I SA AVO I D P PO I NTM E NT

Durham Cathedral, courtesy of Ken Morris

20 April 2018

Lifestyle HEALTHY EATING Mushroom & basil omelette with smashed tomato A vegetarian breakfast with bite, try this egg dish with cream cheese, herbs and grilled tomatoes.

Ingredients 2 tomatoes Tomato, halved 3 medium eggs 1 tbsp snipped chive 300g chestnut mushroom, sliced 1 tsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp low-fat cream cheese 1 tbsp finely chopped basil leaves

cook for 5-8 mins until tender, stirring every few mins. Remove and set aside.

Briskly stir the egg mixture, then add to the hot pan (tilting it so that the mixture covers the entire base) and leave for 10 secs or so until it begins to set. With a fork, gently stir the egg here and there so that any unset mixture gets cooked.

While the egg mixture is still slightly loose, spoon the mushroom mix onto one side of the omelette, and top with the cream cheese and basil leaves. Flip the other side of the omelette over to cover, if you like.

Leave to cook for 1 min more, then cut in half and slide each half onto a plate. Serve immediately with the tomatoes on the side.

Method Heat the grill to its highest setting and place the tomatoes on a square of foil underneath, turning occasionally to prevent burning. When the tomatoes are slightly scorched, remove from the grill, squashing them slightly to release the juices.

Break the eggs into a bowl and mix with a fork. Add a small splash of water and mix. Add the chives and some black pepper, and beat some more. Set aside while you prepare the mushrooms.

In a non-stick frying pan, heat the butter over a medium heat until foaming. Add the mushrooms and

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PASCHA

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PASSION

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RESURRECTION

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SUNDAY

Bride-to-be drops nine stone and nine dress sizes

A bride-to-be who shed more than half her original 19 stone weight after being ashamed that she could not fit into a seat on a rollercoaster has won a slimming award.

Jennifer Ginley, 26, from Liverpool dropped 9st 9lbs and nine dress sizes, bagged a proposal from Luke Hagan, 27, her boyfriend of 11 years, and has been named Slimming World’s Miss Slinky 2017.

Jennifer said: “I might be half the size but I feel like I’m double the person now. I know I have the strength and the willpower to achieve anything I put my mind to, and that’s a really powerful feeling.”

The dramatic transformation took place after Jennifer, a Citizens Advice caseworker, joined Slimming World in May 2015.

Jennifer said: “When I found myself buying size-26 clothes for the holiday I’d been looking forward to for so long, I knew something had to change.

“I had to ask for a seatbelt extender on the plane, I spent our time there having to ride on the adjusted seats for larger people and I was horrified when I saw the photos.

“One picture of me with the Little Mermaid - my favourite Disney character - actually made me gasp. I saw myself in a whole new light - I looked so unhealthy that I cried, wondering how and why I had done that to myself.”

Before hitting her target weight at Christmas she had been discouraging her

boyfriend from popping the question, saying: “I couldn't imagine myself as a bride being the size I was.”

Now she is preparing to go down the aisle.

“It was such an incredible feeling to be able to say ‘Yes!’ without even a second thought about my weight, and I can’t wait to go dress shopping.”

Now 5ft 5in Jennifer, has dropped from 19st 4lbs to 9st 9lbs and from a dress size 24/26 to an 8/10, has swapped takeaways and junk food for fresh and home-made dishes.

There is porridge and fruit for breakfast and salads or home-made soup which she takes to work. She has also joined a gym.

She is set to appear on the cover of the March/April 2017 issue of Slimming World magazine.

Jennifer said: “During my weight-loss journey, I’d visualise myself at target and on the cover of the magazine, inspiring other slimmers with my success.

“I even superimposed a photo of my face onto a magazine cover and stuck it on my bedroom wall! Recently, I’ve also had surgery to remove some loose skin on my tummy, which has given me an extra boost of confidence.

“I feel like I’m a butterfly, emerging from my cocoon. Best of all, I finally believe myself when I say ‘I am going to...’ across all aspects of my life”.

April 2018 21

Monday CROXTETH Porchfield Community Centre Porchfield Close, Off Storrington Avenue 5PM & 7PM Natalie 07928 023090 HUYTON Roby Community Hub Centre Merton Crescent 4.30pm & 6.30pm Vicky 07507 848706 KIRKBY (SOUTHDENE) Southdene Community Centre, Broad Lane 4.30pm & 6.30pm Jenny 07734 224138 HUYTON The Old School House St John’s Road 6.30pm Zara 07854 721185 Tuesday ECCLESTON St James Church Hall St Helens Road 9.00am, 11.00am, 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lynn 07739 167051 KIRKBY The Kirkby Leisure Centre Cherryfield Drive 9.30am & 11.00am Eileen 07742 424767 HUYTON Trinity Church, Page Moss 9.30am & 6.30pm Susanne 07468 434617 NETHERLEY Woodlands Community Centre, Wood Lane 9.30am, 4.30pm and 6.30pm Helen 07779 266870

LIVERPOOL The Liverpool public house 14 James Street (Next door to James Street Station) 12pm Linda 0151 256 1681 FAZAKERLEY Our Lady of Sorrows Pirrie Road 5.00pm & 7.00pm Jan 07954 714567 Wednesday

PRESCOT St Pauls Parish Church Bryer Road 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lisa 07720 979915

DOVECOT (HUYTON) St Margaret Mary’s Social Club, Pilch Lane 9.30am, 4.00pm & 6.00pm Julie 07779 538790

CROXTETH Porchfield Community Centre Off Storrington Avenue 5.30pm Shenley 07803 524716

HUYTON St Lukes Church, Princess Drive 9.30am, 11.30 am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Susanne 07468 434617

KIRKBY (WESTVALE) Holy Angels Social Club Sidney Powell Avenue 4.00pm & 6.00pm Susan 07546 148204

FAZAKERLEY Our Lady of Sorrows Pirrie Road 5.30pm Jan 07954 714567 FAZAKERLEY Federation Community Centre Opposite library Formosa Drive L10 7LR 5.00pm & 6.30pm Eileen 07742 424767 HALEWOOD Hollies Hall, Hollies Road 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.00pm & 7.00pm Kate 07966 260632 KIRKBY (NORTHWOOD) St Mary’s Parochial Club Kennelwood Avenue 4.30pm & 6.30pm Susan 07546 148204

Thursday

CROXTETH PARK Rhys Jones Centre Langley Close 5.00pm & 7.00pm Dawn Tel: 07732 845118 NETHERLEY Netherley Youth & Community Initiative St Gregory’s Church Damson Road, Netherley L27 8XR 6.30pm Helen 07779 266870 Friday FRIDAY HALEWOOD New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre Lakenheath Road 9.30am Kate 07966 260632

DOVECOT (HUYTON) St Margaret Marys Social Club Pilch Lane 7.30am & 9.30am Julie 07779 538790 Saturday PRESCOT Prescot Town Hall Warrington Road 8.00am & 10.00am Lynn 07739 167051 SATURDAY KNOWSLEY The Suites Hotel Ribblers Lane 8.00am & 10.00am Zara 07854 721185 NORRIS GREEN St Christophers Church Hall Lorenzo Drive 8.30am Debbie 07774 699694 FAZAKERLEY Fazakerley Federation Formosa Road 8.30am, 10.30am Jenny 07734 224138 BELLE VALE Gateacre Comprehensive School Hedgefield Road, Belle Vale 9.00am Graeme 07775 918576 HALEWOOD VILLAGE The Dales Country Club Okell Drive 9.00am Jenny 07950 342944

22 April 2018

Health and Wellbeing HEALTHY KNOWSLEY with Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Knowsley and Sefton

THE PUBLIC HEALTH ANNUAL REPORT 2018 This year, our Public Health Annual Report has been presented in a video format and focusses on healthier and happier children and young people.

We know that this is a big issue nationally, with Department of Health figures showing that one in ten children struggle with their mental health. Reasons include chaotic home environments, responsibilities of being a carer and school work.

At a local level, we know that two out of three primary school children worry about a range of things from tests at school through to homework, family problems and the way that they look. At a secondary school level, two out of every five pupils worry about exams and tests, how they look and crime, particularly knife crime. All of these worries impact on our mental health and through the report, we are raising awareness of these issues and the support available in Knowsley.

Creating the right environment is key for children and young people to be able to talk about their feelings and emotions and, working with our partners, that is what we are doing here in Knowsley.

This includes the introduction of the 'Listen Up' project, working with up to 70 young people who are exploring and sharing their experiences around mental health through the creation of comics and a range of leisure and culture activities available across the borough.

In addition, Emotional First Aid training is being delivered to people who work with children and young people, to improve their understanding of how to respond to the emotional needs of children and young people and a programme that supports children as they move from primary to secondary school has been developed.

We will continue to build on these initiatives over the coming years. With everyone's help and support, we know that our children and young people will share their feelings and emotions, seek support if needed and go on to flourish into adulthood.

You can watch the video at www.knowsley.gov.uk/publichealth

APRIL IS BOWEL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Bowel cancer is the third biggest cancer killer in Knowsley but it shouldn’t be because bowel cancer is treatable and curable especially if diagnosed early.

But are you aware of the possible symptoms to look out for? And have you returned your bowel cancer screening kit if you have been sent one?

Spotting the possible key symptoms and visiting your GP if things don’t feel right can help increase early diagnosis of bowel cancer.

People whose cancer is diagnosed at an early stage have a much higher chance of successful treatment than those whose cancer has become more widespread.

The symptoms of bowel cancer can include: • Bleeding from your bottom and/or blood in your poo • A persistent and unexplained change in bowel habit • Unexplained weight loss • Extreme tiredness for no obvious reason • A pain or lump in your tummy If you have any symptoms, don’t be embarrassed and don’t ignore them. Doctors are used to seeing lots of people with bowel problems. The chances are you don’t have bowel cancer as other health problems can cause similar symptoms, but if you do have any of these symptom you should get them checked out.

Matthew Ashton, Knowsley and Sefton director of

public health, said: “Early diagnosis of bowel cancer really does save lives and I’d urge anyone over 60 to complete the bowel cancer test when it comes through the post.

“It is meant for people who don’t have any symptoms, so it really is important to take the test, please don’t ignore it.”

Men and women aged 60 to 74 receive a free NHS bowel cancer screening kit routinely in the post, every two years.

The bowel cancer screening kit is a simple and private test which you do yourself at home. It comes with clear step by step instructions, and is one of the best ways to find bowel cancer early, when it’s easier to treat successfully.

For more information about screening or symptoms visit bowelcanceruk.org.uk or beatingbowelcancer.org

New Regional Adoption Agency to start work A Regional Adoption Agency covering Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral will become operational from 1 April 2018.

It follows a successful bid to the Government by the four local authorities to create a new shared service to get more children with a plan for adoption placed successfully and as quickly as possible.

The new agency – AIM (Adoption in Merseyside) – brings together a team of around 50 staff from across the four councils who have been seconded into the new organisation on their existing terms and conditions.

AIM will operate from a central hub in Halewood, although staff will continue to have a presence in each of their local authority areas to ensure they retain close links with social work staff.

Responsibilities include recruitment, approval and ongoing support for adopters, tracking, linking and matching of children and the training and development of staff.

Every year, the four local authorities approve around 100 adopters and place approximately 140 children for adoption.

Colette Dutton, Knowsley Executive Director (Children), said: “Adoption really can change a child’s life so I’m delighted that the launch of the Regional Adoption Agency will offer greater opportunities for children in our region.

“Having shared resources, expertise and processes will provide enormous benefits to our children and young people, as well as the local authorities taking part.”

HEALTHY TIP Eat a variety of foods For good health, we need more than 40 different nutrients, and no single food can supply them all. It is not about a single meal, it is about a balanced food choice over time that will make a difference!

- A high-fat lunch could be followed by a low-fat dinner.

- After a large meat portion at dinner, perhaps fish should be the next day’s choice?

About half the calories in our diet should come from foods rich in carbohydrates, such as cereals, rice, pasta, potatoes, and bread. It is a good idea to include at least one of these at every meal. Wholegrain foods, like wholegrain bread, pasta, and cereals, will increase our fibre intake.

April 2018 23

PUBLIC HEALTH FOCUS ON HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE Healthier, happier children and young people is the theme for Knowsley’s Public Health annual report 2017/18.

This year, the report is presented in a video format, featuring children and young people in Knowsley talking about their own feelings around mental health and wellbeing, how they deal with issues such as worrying, along with the support available in Knowsley.

There are many factors impacting on a person’s mental health – from poor living conditions, challenging home environments, being a carer or not being in education, training or employment. The most common problems relate to anxiety, depression, behaviour issues or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Creating the right environment is key for children and young people to be able to talk about their feelings and emotions.

A number of initiatives have been developed in Knowsley to support children and young people around the important issue of mental health.

These include a ‘Listen Up’ project which is working with up to 70 young people who are exploring and sharing their experiences around mental health through the creation of comics. In addition, a range of leisure and culture activities are available across the borough, and Emotional First Aid training is being delivered to people who work with children and young people, to improve their understanding of how to respond to the emotional needs of children and young people. A programme has also been developed to support children and their parents when they move from primary to secondary school.

Key priorities over the next two years include the continuation of partnership working with organisations and schools to develop joint plans tailored to the needs of children, young people and their families; supporting schools to provide social and emotional learning environments; and ensuring staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge to support children and young people.

KNOWSLEY RECOGNISED FOR SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH SPEECH AND COMMUNICATION NEEDS A Knowsley programme for children with speech, language and communication needs has been highlighted as an example of best practice in a new national report.

Published on the 10th anniversary of the original report, ‘Bercow: Ten Years On is a review of the current provision for children with speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) in England.

Knowsley Children’s Centre Service provided a detailed submission and was asked to give a presentation in London last summer as part of the call for evidence.

Produced by I CAN (the children’s communication charity) and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, the report includes a case study about Knowsley and the effectiveness of its speech and language pathway, with 72% of children completing the programme now meeting age-related speech, language and communication expectations.

Colette Dutton, Knowsley executive director (children), said: “It’s fantastic that the council’s work to help young children experiencing speech delays and difficulty with language and speaking skills has been recognised as an example of best practice in the national report by I CAN and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

“Our early intervention programme identifies the specific needs of an individual child so we can deliver targeted and effective support.

“It’s well documented that a child’s

Alistair Scott, Knowsley children’s centres service manager & Gail Ross Knowsley children’s centres service operational manager at the House of Commons launch of Bercow: Ten Years On

experience during their early years lays down a foundation for their whole life which is why getting our children off to the best possible start in life is a priority for the council.”

10 Basic Tips for Gardening Beginners Novice gardeners can quickly become green fingered by following just ten basic gardening tips, experts have claimed.

The experts at online garden retailer BillyOh.com have created a simple, concise list covering all angles that will help amateurs get their gardening off the ground and successfully grow and care for a variety of plants.

Plan ahead Before you even consider heading out to buy new plants and equipment, first have a think about the bigger picture and how you’d eventually like your garden to look. There are some great gardening apps available that will help you plan your dream garden with ease.

When you have a strong idea and you have the bulbs, plants and seeds to hand, place them all on to the soil before planting them as you’ll be able to move them around until you’re happy with the arrangement.

Pick easy-to-grow plants Although azaleas and orchids look and smell amazing, they’re notoriously difficult to grow, so are no good for a gardening novice. Instead, opt for plants and flowers that have a reputation for being easy to grow and care for.

Sweet peas, fuchsias, pansies and marigolds all look fantastic and come in a variety of colours and shapes, plus they’re reliable, low maintenance, and they grow quickly so you’ll be able to reap the rewards sooner!

Soak the roots By thoroughly soaking the roots of a new plant before putting it in the soil, you’ll reduce the risk of getting dry root balls.

Also make sure that the hole is bigger than the root ball before you plant it, as a plant’s roots need to be able to spread to get the best chance of tapping into moisture and absorbing the soil’s natural nutrients.

Be gentle Instead of yanking plants from their pots by their stems, gently squeeze the sides of the pot and turn it upside-down, using your other hand to catch it as it slides out. Otherwise, you’re likely to break or bruise them.

Give plants space It can be easy to get carried away by all of the amazing displays at your local garden centre and buy too many plants for the size of your bed or planter, but crowded plants are much more

susceptible to disease and young plants often will not survive if placed too close together.

If they do manage to pull through, they’ll need more frequent watering and fertiliser too, so make sure you read each plant care label carefully to find out how much room they need.

Label, label, label As a gardening rookie, it can be easy to forget exactly what you’ve planted and where as you might not be able to identify plants and flowers easily just from looking at them. To avoid any confusion, take some time to write a plant label and pop it in the ground next to the seeds, bulbs or plants you’ve planted. Most plants you buy will come with a care label anyway but they can get quickly ruined being outdoors, so try copying out the information on to small strips of wood or lollipop sticks that you can stick in the ground instead.

Water, water, water Make sure you give young plants plenty of water, but avoid getting the plant’s leaves wet! Wet leave can quickly lead to mould, rot and decay – which equate to one sick plant!

As your sprouts begin to grow, remember the general rule of thumb is to give plants an inch of water per week – but be on the lookout for yellow leave as that means too much water!

Trim and prune Trimming and pruning your plants allows for increased air circulation and fewer leaves for you to spill water on. It also keeps your plants and flower looking neat and pretty, instead of unkempt and bedraggled.

Beware of weeds Weeds are a gardener’s worst enemy – FACT! So, make sure you get in to the habit of weeding regularly.

Remember to remove weeds along with their roots to reduce the chance of them re-growing, and if there are seeds clinging to the weeds, don’t put them in the compost heap. You’ll just end up reseeding them when you spread the compost!

Set reminders Set up a dedicated calendar so you’ll have an idea of when to complete general gardening tasks for each plant throughout the year.

24 April 2018

OWNER PROSECUTED OVER VACANT BUILDING THAT BECAME EYESORE Knowsley Council has successfully of his building or demolish it. prosecuted the owner of a vacant Regretfully Mr Collins failed to comply building that was both an eyesore in with the notice Knowsley Council served the local community and the target of on him, which clearly explained the work anti-social behaviour. he needed to do. As a result of Mr In the absence of action by the Collins’ inaction, the council then building’s owner, Knowsley Council has proceeded with court action. also acted directly to demolish At Liverpool Magistrate’s Court on the building and improve in March 2018, Mr Collins failed the area for local people. to appear at court and hew The property, on Carls was found guilty in his Council takes Way in Kirkby, is absence. action against owned by Mr Michael He has been ordered to owner of a building Collins of Southport. pay £734 in total (payable Mr Collins did not within 28 days) – £440 that became a carry out any fine, £44 Victim Surcharge hotspot for antimaintenance or upkeep and investigation / social behaviour prosecution costs of £250. of this highly visible building, despite repeated In order to remove the contact from Knowsley eyesore which the building Council to encourage him to do so, represented and in order to prevent which resulted in the building falling into continuing anti-social behaviour, a state of disrepair.

Knowsley Council employed expert In view of the continuing harmful contractors to demolish the building and impact on the area and the repeated this work has now been completed. incidents of anti-social behaviour, The site has also been grassed so that Knowsley Council was left with no option it is in keeping with the local area and the but to use its legal powers in order to council is currently pursuing the recovery insist that action was taken by Mr Collins of the demolition costs incurred from the – this being to improve the appearance land owner.

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Pingwood before (above) and after the demolition work

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April 2018 25

KNOWSLEY ARK: BRINGING HISTORY ALIVE

Voices from the past

O

ne of the most evocative ways personal connection between the listener of sharing information about a and the narrator that is both absorbing and community’s past is through the intense. medium of oral history.

The oral history collection in The ARK Storytelling is the most ancient form of records many aspects of the sociosharing personal experiences, deeply economic, political and cultural life of the embedded in many cultures as a way of borough, from childhood recollections and communicating important information and Lancashire dialect recordings, through to of preserving community identity. memories of wartime Huyton and the rapid The folk tradition ensured that this social change experienced in Kirkby from identity was maintained, defining tales the 1940s onwards, to the accounts of being passed down through the generations politicians and activists from across the as a shared wisdom. political divides.

Oral traditions, however, were eclipsed The collection can be divided quite neatly by the written historic account which into two parts, roughly based on when – became the accepted recorded history. and how - the recordings were made.

It wasn’t until the latter half of The analogue collection features the 20th century, with the cassette recordings made during formation of the Oral the 1970s and the 1990s History Society and using basic equipment.

Oral history is technical advancements These have now been in sound recording, converted to digital format important that interest in the to enable access to the because it gives validity of the spoken recordings. a voice to the word and its impact on The digital collection, ordinary person our understanding of initiated through support historic events began to from the Heritage Lottery gain credence.

Fund, is now in development, Oral history is important and includes the ‘Talking Kirkby’ because it gives a voice to the ordinary project interviews from 2015, which person, as both observer of and participant feature memories of Kirkby from the 1940s in events, regardless of gender, social class, to 1970, and the ‘Huyton Camps’ project race or disability. of 2016, which recalls the Internment, The recordings differ from reminiscences Prisoner of War and United States Army in that they are more focused and deal with Transit camps operational in Huyton during first hand experiences examined through and just after the Second World War. specific themes, the dialogue prompted by Delving into the analogue collection, an experienced interviewer who guides the made primarily in the 1970s and later the subject (or narrator) through their 1990s, reveals a broad selection of memories to provide a structured, coherent recordings recalling memories of 20th record of that person’s very personal century life. experiences.

Interestingly, many of the speakers share Oral history can present that person’s a Lancastrian accent, common at the time perspective of events in a way that is far before the full integration of the Scouse more powerful than the printed word alone: accent. it captures emotion and tone; it reveals In particular, the voice of Alice Wharton, dialect in a way that print simply can’t. who was born in 1907 and recorded in Importantly, it makes an emotional, 1998, evokes a gentler pace of life, when early 20th century Kirkby was a truly agricultural village. She speaks eloquently of the harshness of farming life.

The teamsmen would have to get up at 3am to feed and harness the horses, load the wagons with produce such as potatoes and travel into Cazeneau Street Market, Liverpool in time to sell their wares.

Once empty, the men would load the wagons up with manure from the cow keepers in the city centre, to be carted back to Kirkby to be spread on the fields as fertiliser. She also talks about ‘bagging time’ – break time for the farm workers who would take a short rest and a snack whilst feeding the farm horses their nose bags – hence ‘bagging time’.

Other childhood memories are related by Mrs Winifred Wallace of

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All set to record

Erick Kirste and Dr john Goldsmith

Cronton. Born in 1896, she remembers In line with copyright restrictions and the with wonder trips into Liverpool and to wishes of the individual involved, recordings Widnes by horse-drawn cab for the can then be made available for researchers Christmas pantomime, in an interview to listen to. There are some excerpts from recorded in 1978. the archive available online via the ARK’s There are numerous recordings of past Soundcloud page. Find them at local councillors and former Prime Minister, https://soundcloud.com/knowsleyarchives the Right Honourable Sir Harold Wilson or drop in to the ARK in the Kirkby Centre KG, features a number of times, recorded to browse the collection. in conversation with Tom Scragg and Bill You can visit the ARK at the Kirkby Lund in 1977 as well as in interviews Centre, Norwich Way, Kirkby, L32 8XY. originally broadcast by Radio Merseyside.

For more information about the ARK or The Second World War is covered from to find out about the services on offer, call several different perspectives.

0151 443 4365 or email In an interview with Tom Scragg infoheritage@knowsley.gov.uk. recorded in 1978, Mr Lyde talks about his Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and ARP duties in Huyton during WW2 and find Knowsley Archives on Flickr, vividly describes a direct bomb hit.

Wordpress and Soundcloud More eyewitness accounts were recorded digitally as part of the Heritage Lottery Fund supported ‘Huyton Camps’ project in 2016, when we were fortunate to be able to interview Dr John Goldsmith, a former internee at Huyton Internment Camp 009 and Erich Kirste, the last remaining German Prisoner of War from the King George V Playing Fields Camp to have remained in Huyton, as well as local residents who remembered the Alice Wharton in traditional bonnet and shawl events of the time.

Here we see the beauty of oral history and how it gives a voice to those individuals who would not normally be able to contribute to the historical record: each was present, each has a different – and equally valid – point of view that serves to add depth and texture to the official information that is held on events set in a very specific space and time.

Bomb damage in Huyton The process for recording oral history involves careful training of the staff and volunteers, who understand the sensitivities that surround the rendering of such personal testimonies and making them available to researchers.

Recordings are securely held, by permission of the narrator, in WAV format (the most flexible, time-proof format) and each recording is fully documented according to British Library guidelines.

Teamsmen preparing a load of potatoes for market

26 April 2018

CLEAN UP BLITZ IN KNOWSLEY

A major environmental action campaign in Knowsley kicked off with a three week clean up blitz in the borough.

Knowsley Council held three ‘weeks of action’ to clean up areas of the borough with the highest levels of reported environmental issues, including fly tipping, littering and dog fouling.

Held in March, the three-week blitz saw the council’s street scene and environmental enforcement teams blitz areas of Kirkby, Huyton and Halewood, alongside their usual day to day street cleansing activities.

The team spent each week in a particular neighbourhood tackling a different issue every day including clearing fly tipping, litter picking, cutting back overgrown verges and bushes and graffiti removal.

To highlight the number of dog walkers who fail to clean up after their dogs, dog fouling was sprayed before being cleaned up.

Information was also distributed to local residents informing them of the penalties for each type of environmental crime, how they can report issues and inviting them to get involved with community initiatives to keep their neighbourhoods clean.

A new poster campaign, due to appear across the borough this spring, will also highlight the fact that ‘we’re not messing’ when it comes to cracking down on environmental crime.

It will remind residents of the fines and penalties facing anyone who drops litter, fails to clean up after their dog or is caught fly tipping in Knowsley. Fixed penalty notices of £75 are issued to those dropping litter, £100 for failing to clean up dog mess, while fly-tipping is a criminal offence punishable by an unlimited fine and / or prison sentence.

QVC UK celebrates fundraising efforts QVC UK employees are celebrating after raising one of their highest totals for local charities in 2017.

As part of its annual fundraising campaign, £125,815.05 was donated – an increase of 22% on last year’s total.

Thanks to the generosity and hard work of QVC UK team members, this phenomenal amount was raised for local charities in London and Knowsley, and Breast Cancer Care, QVC’s corporate charity.

Employees nominate charities which are voted for by the wider company, therefore enabling full

engagement and ownership around charity fundraising, as shown in the generous totals.

Employees took part in a wide range of activities from cake baking and eating to fancy dress days in the office.

In the Knowsley Contact Centre and Warehouse, QVC raised: • £17,563.06 for Crohn’s and Colitis UK • £18,971.16 for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice • £17,508.81 for R Charity Natasha Kinsey, corporate and events fundraiser at Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, said: “We would like

to say a huge thank you to everyone at QVC Knowsley for your amazing support to us over the last 12 months.

“Your fundraising doesn’t just help to continue the running of our unique hospice and providing the specialist care for our babies, but will also help to create memories for the children and family we care for.

“Your money can help us to provide days out, bespoke equipment, oxygen and beds.

“You will and have helped us to keep the doors open for 50+ children and families who rely on us every day; thank you”.

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April 2018 27

Are apprenticeships only for school leavers?

EX-PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER SCORES WITH “ NEW JOB Like thousands of Liverpool teenagers, James Colbeck had one dream – to be a professional footballer.

Signed by pro club Wrexham, the young striker made a perfect start, scoring twice in a 4-1 win on his debut.

But just a few years later, James’ passion for the game was falling and he was worried about long-term prospects.

Now the 24-year-old is an apprentice at Cadent, a company that’s busting a myth that apprenticeships are only for school leavers.

One in 10 of the gas distribution network’s 144 current apprentices joined the company age 24 or older.

Sixty per cent were older than 19.

These apprentices include James, as well as David Walters, a former satellite installation technician from Maghull, who is 33.

James, from Huyton, said: “Football was the only thing in my childhood really. I was signed up to professional clubs from the age of seven, right up to when I was 21.

“I had trials at Everton, Tranmere and Wrexham and ended up at Wrexham.

“I got a contract for two years, but it

James Colbeck from his playing days and now

I did think - am I too old at 22 to start an apprenticeship?

just didn’t work out in the end. Different people came in and football is all about opinions.

“I went to do semi-professional football, with Connah’s Quay, but I just wasn’t enjoying it. I’d lost the passion I had from when I was younger. I started to realise there isn’t much security. I didn’t want to go from team to team every year. I just wanted a career that could set me up for life.

“I looked around online, spoke to my parents and they suggested going for an apprenticeship.

“I found the Cadent apprenticeship online and decided to get stuck into it. I applied, went to an assessment centre and impressed them enough to get the job. I started in 2015 and have enjoyed it ever since.

“I did think ‘am I too old at 22 to start an apprenticeship?’, normally it was something you do from school. But when I started, there was loads of people the same age as me – and older. Everyone has got a different story and a different background, so I’d say don’t be afraid to apply just because of your age.”

Reflecting on his football career, he

added: “I scored twice on my debut, which made the local press. I was buzzing at the time, because that’s what I had worked for. I have good memories of playing football, but that’s mostly in the past now. I enjoy my job at Cadent just as much.”

David Walters is also delighted he had the courage to switch career. “I always thought I could do more than what I was doing. I had a good job, a technician, but it was not leading anywhere. I thought I could find a company that could put a bit of trust in me, I could pay them back and give them a lot of years. I am only 33, so I have still got a lot of years in me yet.

“It was obvious on my first day that maybe I was the oldest, because of the way I looked! But when I started to speak to people, and after the first week, nobody looked at me as the oldest one. We all did the same thing and got on really well.

“I was nervous that first week – I kept

”

thinking they are going to turn around and say you’re too old, you’ve got through the system here!

“I was nervous at first to take that step, but now I’m over the moon that I did it. An apprentice doesn’t have to be 16 or 17, coming out of school – apprentice really means you are learning, you are at the beginning of something new.”

James is now training as a gas pressure control engineer, while David has joined the Cadent ranks of first-call operatives, the team of emergency gas engineers who respond to reports of gas leaks or concerns about carbon monoxide.

28 April 2018

Haunted Merseyside with Tom Slemen

THE HUYTON VAMPIRE HUNTER O

n the Tuesday morning of 6 May young people were 1952 at around 3.20am, a group always looking for of silhouettes was seen new kicks and ways skulking about among the gravestones to expand their of St James’s Cemetery, a vast sunken minds, and interest graveyard next to the Anglican in the occult was at Cathedral on Hope Street. an all-time high, so A resident with insomnia at her third most of the students floor flat on Canning Street had a view at the party were overlooking the cemetery, and by the light absolutely transfixed of the moon hanging over the chimney by the claims of the pots of Toxteth, she could see that some hippy-like of the shadowy people creeping about gatecrasher – who among the gravestones wore cloaks. said his name was She put their number at six.

Adam.

On the following morning, work-bound He told his people taking a short cut through the mesmerised peers cemetery saw that one of the tombs built that there was a into the sandstone walls had been hole in the wall of a opened, and whoever had broken into the certain tomb in St Victorian sepulchre had been very James’s Cemetery, determined and organised, because they and that he had been told by a voice had neatly removed huge blocks of stone within the tomb to put his hand through to gain entry and had even wrenched the hole. away the copings to allow the removal of Adam had then felt a slight pin-prick in wrought-iron railings that had guarded the his wrist. The being in the tomb was a place of rest for a century. man who called himself Chris the New A child’s coffin lay three feet away from Christ who had been resurrected by the desecrated tomb with its lead-lined lid Jesus, and he had chosen Liverpool to prised open, revealing the lifelike openinaugurate his cult of the Undying Ones. eyed corpse of one Eliza Nicholson.

Adam said he had been dying of a Inside the open disease before he was tomb, police found ‘reborn’ and was now “I don’t think it was the nine other coffins able to stay awake for of the Nicholson vandals or criminals. weeks at a time. family, and some of Fifty of the students This was done with the caskets had eagerly followed Adam been interfered with. into the cemetery and great precision and Some accounts led them to the no lead or valuables he say garlic bulbs were tomb with the hole in its were missing” scattered about the frontage. tomb and white They heard the voice crosses had been within it say it was Chris, daubed on the walls. Eliza’s coffin was the New Christ, and one young man resealed and she was put back in the forced his girlfriend’s arm into the hole. tomb, which was bricked up.

She screamed and said she’d been Police blamed vandals – possibly bitten. thieves who wanted the lead from the “It’s sucking my blood!” she cried, and coffins, but as the local Parks and fainted. More and more put their hands Gardens Superintendent P F McCormack into the hole and were duly bitten, and told the Press: “I don’t think it was vandals people brought bottles of wine into the or criminals. This was done with great cemetery, and even played guitars down precision and no lead or valuables were there. missing from the tomb.

An orgy broke out, and around 4am, as “These people went to a great deal of it was getting light, two men dressed in trouble using crowbars and other tools to flamboyant old-fashioned clothes turned get into that tomb.” up at the cemetery. They carried bags All the same, the police staked out the containing tools, and they used crowbars cemetery on the nights after the incident to remove the blocks of the tomb. and hid behind gravestones – but the A student said one of the oddly-dressed criminals never returned to the scene of men was an eccentric self-styled vampire the crime. hunter from Huyton named John.

Fifteen years later, in 1967, a group of When most of the blocks had been about sixty students were having a party removed by the duo, the crowd saw a tall at a house on Percy Street one summer greyish naked man with huge black eye evening, when a long-haired and bearded sockets and a mouth of fangs cowering in stranger in his early twenties gate-crashed the tomb. and told the partygoers that he had John thrust a huge golden cross of discovered the secret of eternal life. emeralds and rubies at this weird entity At this time, drug-taking was rife and and it screamed and started to smoulder.

“You’re killing Christ!” screamed a girl, but John replied, “That is no more Christ than the man in the moon! It’s a vampire!”

The figure crumbled to dust as John recited something in Latin, and the students began to leave the cemetery in shock.

John told the ones who had been bitten to stay so he could give them an antidote, but they fled – and their fates are unknown.

I’ll tell you more about the Huyton vampire hunter in the near future.

HIGH SHERIFF VISITS WILLOWBROOK’S LIVING WELL Willowbrook Hospice’s Living Well centre recently played host to The High Sheriff of Merseyside Mr Stephen Burrows DL and his wife Gill as they were given tour of the facilities as well as an update on the latest developments and the plans for the future.

They were welcomed by the chairman of the hospice’s Board of Trustees Alan Chick and Lady Kirsty Pilkington and during the visit spoke to both staff and volunteers

based at The Living Well.

The High Sheriff said: “Today has been a wonderful opportunity to see how the services provided at the Living Well impact on the care and support Willowbrook offers to local people with life limiting illnesses across St Helens and Knowsley.

“As well as being the base for hospice teams such as finance, fundraising and advance care planning, The Living Well is obviously an invaluable asset to the

wider community, providing a place for people to meet, enjoy a cup of tea and a cake, browse in the onsite charity shop or to join in the wellbeing classes such as yoga and pilates.

“Everyone we’ve spoken to today has been so enthusiastic and passionate about the hospice and should to be applauded for the outstanding contribution they make to the lives of local people.”

(L-R) Nichola Saunders (head of fundraising at Willowbrook), The High Sheriff of Merseyside Mr Stephen Burrows DL, Lady Kirsty Pilkington, and Gill Burrows (High Sheriff’s wife) and Alan Chick (chairman of Willowbrook Hospice’s Board of Trustees).

April 2018 29

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30 April 2018

Business News

KNOWSLEY DEVELOPERS ENCOURAGED TO ENTER AWARDS FOR REGENERATION Local developers playing a major part in the area’s regeneration are being urged to showcase and celebrate their efforts for this year’s North West Property Awards (NWPAs).

As towns within the Knowsley borough continue to undergo a notable transformation, many businesses have contributed considerably to the extensive redevelopment programmes.

To commend their investment and dedication, developers are being encouraged to demonstrate their incredible work on a wider scale by entering the prestigious awards, in particular the ‘Regeneration award’.

This category looks for projects which have had a positive impact on the physical or environmental quality of a deprived place or the economic or social well-being of its community, including benefitting other businesses in the area.

The NWPAs was established 14 years ago and recognises the commercial and residential property sector across the whole of the North West.

At the ceremony last year, housebuilder Countryside received the Regeneration Award for its Highfield Green development just outside Kirkby town centre.

The site is set amidst a backdrop of over 30-acres of surrounding parkland, which is being regenerated to feature football areas and facilities for recreational activity, making them ideal for families and couples alike.

One of the founders of the NWPAs, Kim O’Brien said: “Many towns in the Knowsley borough are being transformed back into bustling communities and this is in part to do with local developers believing in the area and wanting to bring it back to life.

“We are looking to shine the spotlight on these innovative projects which have supported these regeneration projects, helping put the area back on the map.”

The awards are free to enter and open to all residential and commercial property developers, agents and professionals.

There are 12 categories ranging from the ‘Best commercial scheme’ to ‘Best new home development’ as well as two new categories; the ‘community’ and ‘innovation’ awards.

Deadline for entries is Friday 25 June and the glittering awards ceremony will take place on 11 October at Lutyens Crypt, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.

To enter and for more information visit: www.nwpas.com

KNOWSLEY MAKES TWO KEY APPOINTMENTS

Knowsley Council has made two key appointments to its senior management team.

Colette Dutton and Julie Moss, both of whom already work for the Authority, will take up the roles of executive director (children) and executive director (health and wellbeing).

The positions also carry the statutory responsibilities of director of children’s services and director of adult social care respectively.

Colette and Julie have been with the council for a number of years, and their appointments reflect the commitment and impact made across their respective services.

Mike Harden, chief executive of Knowsley Council, said: “The appointment of two strong internal candidates into these crucially important roles is a very positive move for us.

“Both Colette and Julie have made a significant impact on service delivery and support for our most vulnerable residents and their permanent appointments will mean that we can build on and continue the approach which has served us so well in recent years.

“Colette and Julie are extremely capable and driven individuals and we are lucky to have them.”

Colette Dutton had been carrying out the role of executive director (children) on an interim basis since November 2017.

Julie Moss was previously responsible for Adult Social Care and will take on a wider remit across health and wellbeing. She will work closely with NHS England and the Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group to build strong partnership approaches to the wider health agenda in the area and Liverpool City Region.

As a result of these latest appointments, the council has also been able to review other senior officer positions and has been able to save £235,000 by deleting two senior posts.

After these recent changes, all the council will be spending £6.5m less annually on its senior officer arrangements than it was in 2010. Knowsley’s senior officer posts have reduced by half in that time (compared to a workforce reduction of 30%).

Liverpool City Region approves new Skills Strategy

Colette Dutton

Julie Moss

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has approved a new Skills Strategy, setting out a vision for how an effective skills system can drive aspiration and attainment and create a truly global and competitive City Region at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse.

The Strategy has been produced in partnership with a wide range of stakeholders from across the City Region, including input from 60 senior stakeholders through one to one interviews and contributions from 50 businesses as part of the Local Enterprise Partnership’s Insight Programme.

Responses were also received from the Combined Authority’s constituent councils, employers, business groups, universities, colleges and training providers.

Speaking about the strategy, Steve Rotheram, Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor, said: “Our economy has performed well in recent years, creating significant numbers of jobs, and we have also seen an increase in skill levels.

“This strategy sets out a high-level vision for how we can reform our skills system to meet that goal. The associated action plan, currently being developed by our Employment and Skills Board, will set out the concrete steps we need to deliver the strategy’s ambitious objectives.”

April 2018 31

LAUNCH OF THE KNOWSLEY BUSINESS NETWORK Over 35 businesses recently attended the launch of the ‘Knowsley Business Network’ event held at the Village Hotel, Knowsley.

The launch saw fantastic presentations from Pam Case (ACR), Alex Marshall (Clarke Energy) and Tony Simpson (Seacon) about the importance of

networking not just “offline” but “online”.

At the event, Lesley Martin-Wright (Knowsley Chamber of Commerce) and Pam Case (ACR) promoted the ‘Knowsley Business Network’ group that they have started on LinkedIn. LinkedIn has more than 546 million members and is a beneficial platform for doing business to

business, but also making referrals and introductions from existing contacts.

The ‘Knowsley Business Network’ will act as a networking platform for Knowsley businesses to work collaboratively.

If you already have a LinkedIn profile you can add your link for the group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/120833 54 At the event businesses were asked to add to a board their businesses’ ‘ASKS’ and their businesses’ ‘OFFERS’ – this feedback has now been added on the

LinkedIn group against the business names.

Businesses who attended were asked to join LinkedIn and Knowsley Business Network group to use these ‘ASKS’ and ‘OFFERS’ which could enhance our Knowsley businesses.

Janine Clark (Morgan Ryder) and Ian Denny (Social Proof) gave some helpful tips and hints. Janine has agreed to host a further LinkedIn workshop for those who wish to create or enhance their profile.

APRIL FLASH NETWORKING

Working Well at Acorn Farm Acorn Farm is an urban farm, which for thirty years has provided expert support for adults with learning disabilities. The farm also offers visitors the opportunity to see how a working farm operates including; a petting area, horse rides and a chance to enjoy local wildlife.

Acorn Farm accessed support from Working Well last year. Working Well is a programme funded by Public Health and delivered by Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, concentrating on health and wellbeing for local businesses in Knowsley.

There is a grant available to SME’s of up to £500 to contribute to health and wellbeing in the Workplace for Knowsley Businesses.

Acorn Farm inputted a grant to benefit both the physical and mental health of their employees and volunteers. They accessed holistic therapies, Slimming World vouchers, fitness watches and the ‘Fitness and Fun’ classes.

The impact of the grant has produced positive results for the employees and volunteers; they are now more mindful about exercise and healthy eating.

The ‘Fitness and Fun’ sessions were so successful that these exercise classes have been continued on site with contribution from Acorn Farm. The fitness watches provided competitive incentives to keep steps up, and also benefitted a member of staff who had recently had surgery to keep active.

The improvements that have come from the mindfulness of all of the activities combined has definitely improved the calm and positive influences in the Workplace.

There has been noticeably more productivity at the Workplace and health conscious discussions happening more often.

Aside from the Working Well grant, Working Well also provides signposting support to local services in Knowsley, including The Healthy Knowsley Service, Quit Smoking Services, CGL and much

more.

Acorn Farm also provides support for adults with learning disabilities. The support they offer includes the opportunity for a person to participate in the everyday running of the farm and to assist in facilitating animal petting and horse riding sessions with visitors.

They also offer the opportunity to get involved in a scheme designed to assist in helping find employment, onsite college courses in animal welfare/horticulture and a choice of various keep fit and football sessions.

All aspects of the support they offer focus on enabling a person to develop confidence in their own ability and in providing a solid understanding of the skills required when seeking employment.

Support Costs: Full Day £44.20 (9.30am To 3pm) Half Day £22.10 (9.30am to 12.30pm) If you would like more information visit http://www.knowsleychamber.org.uk/working -well/

Knowsley Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a B2B breakfast event that has been a long standing favourite for Knowsley business people who want to network.

Why? It’s informal, it’s very friendly, and it really does help you to make those valued connections.

The venue will be at Suites Hotel, Knowsley (just off the M57 and East Lancs Road), and everyone has the opportunity to speak for up to 60 seconds……..don’t be daunted……this is what our attendees want and why Flash is so successful.

Sixty seconds is a great way to give a snapshot about your business and then there’s time for everyone to network, give out business cards, and, by the way, you also receive a delegate list Don’t just take our word for it, here’s what our Flash networkers say about it:

KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (WHISTON LANE, HUYTON) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) (EXCEPT FOR ACCESS) ORDER 2018 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to enable essential bridge inspection works to be carried out on Whiston Lane, Huyton (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate traffic management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council proposes in not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order under Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Order”), The effect of this Order will be to temporarily prohibit vehicles (except emergency services) including pedal cycles from proceeding along a section of Whiston Lane, Huyton from its junction with York Road to its junction with Pottery Lane.

The diversion route for vehicular traffic affected by the Order which will be clearly signposted will be via Wood Lane, The Crescent, Longview Drive, Huyton Lane, Whiston Lane and vice versa.

The Order will come into force on Friday 4 May 2018 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months. It is anticipated that the works will take place on Sunday 13 May 2018.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to properties, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said work and for works vehicles, any vehicle used in connection with the police, fire or ambulance purposes and anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

Dated the 3 April 2018 Mike Harden Chief Executive

“At the heart of it we all want to support local businesses and make Knowsley a great place to do business, so Flash Networking gives you an opportunity to meet like-minded business people who actively want to work together.

Sheila from the Chamber does a great job and we look forward to attending Flash Networking meetings in 2018”. Reg Illingworth, Machmade Ltd. Beginning with a 15 minute presentation from the sponsor followed by each attendee giving a 60 second pitch to the group. Afterwards there is the chance to network freely, and introduce yourself to the other delegates. Don’t forget to bring your business cards.

Booking is essential and will take place at The Suites Hotel, Ribblers Lane, Prescot, Merseyside L34 9HA Cost: Members: £12.00 Non-Members: £16.00 KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (HAWTHORN ROAD, HUYTON) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) (EXCEPT FOR ACCESS) ORDER 2018 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to enable essential carriageway improvement works to be carried out on Hawthorn Road, Huyton (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate traffic management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council proposes in not less than seven days from the date of this Notice to make an Order under Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Order”), The effect of this Order will be to temporarily prohibit vehicles (except emergency services) including pedal cycles from proceeding along a section of Hawthorn Road, Huyton from its junction with Rupert Road for a distance of 10 metres in a southerly direction.

The diversion route for vehicular traffic affected by the Order which will be clearly signposted will be via Rupert Road, Kingsway, Larch Road, Hawthorn Road and vice versa.

The Order will come into force on Friday 4 May 2018 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months. It is anticipated that the works will take place from Wednesday 9 May 2018 to Friday 8 June 2018.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to properties, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said work and for works vehicles, any vehicle used in connection with the police, fire or ambulance purposes and anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

Dated the 9 April 2018 Mike Harden Chief Executive

32 April 2018

Challenge Sport The

If you have any sports news contact the Sports Desk on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com

CABLES TARGET PLAYOFFS

LET’S GO AND TRY...

ORIENTEERING Want to test your navigation skills and have a go at finding your way around Stadt Moers Park with just a map!

Knowsley’s Green Space Rangers are holding an orienteering event on Wednesday 11 April from 1pm to 2.30pm.

Call 0151 443 3682 for more information about the event.

Cables are currently having a season to remember, pushing hard for a place in the playoffs of the EvoStik North league to move into the premier division, which could lead to promotion to the premier division.

Cables board member, Jamie Weston said: “We are currently sitting in 5th place and the lads are pushing to take 4th place from Bamber Bridge and a home tie advantage for the playoffs.

“After a disastrous start to the season going out of the FA Cup at the first round, the team have bounced back and went on a tremendous run with the team being top of the table at the start of 2018.

“Brian Richardson Cables revival started midway through last season and the team has pushed on further this year and are probably the surprise team of the season.

“The team are also fighting to retain the Liverpool Senior Cup which was won with a 2-0 defeat of Southport, Cables take on Litherland REMYCA in the semi final with a tie against Marine for the victors, Cables will be looking to make it three finals in three years.

“With six league games left its going to be a very exciting April, get down to Volair Park and cheer the lads onto victory.

You can catch up with all things Cables on the website: wwwprescotcablesfc.com”.

KIRKBY HIGH CROWNED CHAMPIONS JAKE IS PORTUGAL BOUND

Kirkby High School Year 10 students represented Knowsley at the Merseyside Handball Championships in March.

They had this privilege after winning the Knowsley Tournament back in December without losing a single game.

Kirkby High started the tournament with

two wins and then took their foot off the gas and lost the next two. This left them in 4th position meaning they had to play Wirral Grammar in the semi-finals as they were seeded number one.

Wirral Grammar are the current national champions so they knew it would be a really tough game.

The game ended 5-5 going into two minutes extra time ending in a very strong finale in which they won 7-6.

The boys then played Meols Cop in the final and won 9-6 to become Merseyside Champions. They now represent Merseyside in the northern games. Well done boys.

Knowsley Challenge is a free community newspaper to serve the Borough of Knowsley. Circulation 30,000. Editorial Office: 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 706 7411.

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Liverpool Elite, the Huyton-based Taekwondo club, is no stranger to success over the years.

The club have reached further success this month after Liverpool Elite student/assistant coach Jack Waddicar competed in the national student championships in Worcester and winning gold.

Jack who had been training Intensely for the competition since before Christmas lead by example and managed to get the gold and qualified for student European championships in Portugal, July this year.

Liverpool Elite coaches Jake Moscrop and Lesley Lally, said: “The coaches and all the children at Liverpool Elite are extremely proud of Jack, all the hard work he has put in to win this competition has been inspiring and we all wish him good luck in Portugal in July”.