The Challenge July 2019

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Issue: 385 July 2019

KNOWSLEY AND NORTH LIVERPOOL’S BIGGEST NEWSPAPER

KNOWSLEY EDUCATION AWARDS 2019

CELEBRATING OUR SCHOOLS wards recognising the efforts and achievements of everyone involved in schools and education in Knowsley were handed out at a glittering event held at Knowsley Hall.

The Knowsley Education Awards, now in its second year, recognised inspirational teachers, high achieving pupils, supportive governors and strong leadership teams in the borough.

The event highlighted achievements across the borough’s schools, honouring and rewarding the many examples of excellent practice, as well as showcasing the talent, ambition and dedication of everyone involved in education in Knowsley.

Among the big winners were Knowsley Lane Primary in Huyton and Kirkby High, who were named joint winners of School of the Year.

Meanwhile, Outstanding Achievement Awards went to Philip Walker from St Columba’s Catholic Primary School, Huyton; Katy Allen from Halewood Academy and Sonny Horrocks from Alt Bridge School, Huyton.

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• Continued on Page 4 School of the Year - Kirkby High School

Walkers have a splashing time - P19

A roaring success - P26

News from the Flower Show - P4

INSIDE: Tom Slemen • Sports News • Knowsley ARC • Education News • Business News

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2 July 2019

Kirkby – what’s happening?

Knowsley Council confirmed that it is in discussion with St Modwen about purchasing the assets which St Modwen owns in Kirkby town centre.

These assets include the existing shopping centre as well as other sites earmarked for development, including land south of Cherryfield Drive.

Residents have asked the council to “do something” about the lack of progress by St Modwen in Kirkby town centre and that is exactly what they are doing. Independent valuations are being carried out and technical market appraisals are ongoing and conversations with St Modwen are progressing positively so far and they expect to make an offer in the next few weeks.

INFORMATION News: 0151 706 7411 Advertising: 0151 709 7567 Email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Twitter: thechallenge6 Copy deadline: Thursday 25 July 2019

Keep up to date with THE CHALLENGE on our website

Foodbank appeals for donations Knowsley Foodbank who support residents in crisis by providing three days’ emergency food and support are appealing for donations.

Knowsley people who are in crisis can apply for a Foodbank voucher from many frontline services such as Citizens Advice, welfare advice centres, school and health care professionals.

They present the voucher to a distribution centre (there are ten located across the borough) and are given three days’ worth of food for themselves and their family. They will also receive toiletries and sanitary products when available.

Over 90% of the food distributed by Knowsley Foodbank is donated by the public but stocks are running low and donations are once again needed They are looking for items such as: • UHT milk • Bottles of fruit squash/Juice

• Instant coffee • Jars of pasta sauce • Tinned fruit • Biscuits • Breakfast cereals • Tinned rice pudding/custard • Tinned potatoes • Tinned meat/fish You can drop off any donations at Tesco, Cables Retail Park, Prescot (front of store) or at various locations across Knowsley, including Link Road, Huyton.

Alternatively, you can donate to Knowsley Foodbank through their fundraising page or contact Knowsley foodbank on 0151 482 6089 You can read more about the work of Knowsley Foodbank at www.knowsley.foodbank.org.uk or www.big-help.info

GP duo brave the shave for hospice

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

Rainhill Village GP practice manager Philippa Sephton and her colleague Kieran McCarthy ‘braved the shave’ to help raise funds for Prescot based Willowbrook Hospice.

Philippa, 48 said: “I’d originally grown my hair for my wedding last year but recently decided that I needed a new look. Rather than going for a choppy bob, I thought why not go ‘the whole hog’ and try to do some good at the same time by raising funds for Willowbrook.

“I often take my mum to Willowbrook Hospice’s events such as the open gardens but it’s through working at the surgery that you realise how invaluable the hospice is to people in our local community. We’ve had so many of our patients attending either day therapy or being admitted as an inpatient there and no-one has anything but praise for the care and support they receive.”

When Philippa informed her colleagues at the surgery of her plans to ‘brave the shave’ she was

initially greeted with a stunned silence – especially when she asked if anyone else fancied joining her.

Philippa said: “I didn’t think anyone would want to join me but was pleasantly surprised when Kieran, one of our reception team, piped up to say he’d be willing.”

Kieran, 25, said: “After a decade of having long hair it’s finally time to say goodbye so why not benefit a fantastic local charity such as Willowbrook.

Unfortunately, we never know when we or one of our loved ones may need to use the services Willowbrook offers.”

The brave pair faced ‘the chop’ at Bridge Barbers on Warrington Road, Rainhill and will be donating their hair to the Little Princess Trust who provide wigs for young children facing hair loss through cancer and other treatments.

To support Philippa and Kieran in their fundraising, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/philippasephton

July 2019 3

The Cycling Scouser cracks America The Cycling Scouser has done it again, completing a grueling 3,343-mile coast to coast challenge across some of the toughest terrain in the USA. The epic 40-day journey saw Andrew “Rogo” Rogerson cycle through 12 states, including Montana, North Dakota, Illinois, New York State and New Jersey, with an incredible 10 days taking on the Rocky Mountains.

In between the start and finish points, the Jaguar Land Rover engineer from Halewood faced the elements with just a rucksack and a tent to accompany him for the majority of the journey.

Rogo is still on target to raise an incredible £30,000 for the Charlie’s Chance Foundation, a charity established to support children and their families affected by cancer. The JustGiving fund currently stands at over £10,000 for the USA adventure.

“Incredibly, this was my toughest challenge to date” said Rogo, who has also cycled from Shanghai to Liverpool and ran five marathons in five days in the sweltering heat of the Jordanian desert.

“I was completely alone for days and days on end, sometimes without even seeing a single human being. The weather was extremely wet and grim for a

huge part of the journey, and the ceaseless torrential rain can really take it out of you - not to mention your socks!

“The USA terrain is so changeable, from the extreme ups and downs and intensity of the Rocky Mountains to the endless flats of North Dakota. Plus, I had to meet specific deadlines in order to complete the challenge within the timeframe so I was always against the clock...

“It’s been tough, but as long as Charlie is fighting his battle I feel as though getting on the bike is the least I can do.”

The Charlie’s Chance Foundation was set up when the son of a close friend and colleague of Andrew's, Charlie, was diagnosed with leukaemia and was in desperate need of a bone marrow transplant.

The entire journey was supported by Andrew’s employer, Jaguar Land Rover, which has supported the charity since it was founded. Charlie’s Chance is Jaguar Land Rover Halewood's charity of the year, voted for by employees.

The aim of the foundation is to relieve sickness and promote and preserve good health of children with cancer by the provision of funding. Charlie’s Chance assists with fundraising to enable children with cancer to access beneficial

treatments not offered by the NHS and to provide emotional and other support for them, their families and carers.

You can donate to Charlie’s Chance

through The Cycling Scouser’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/cy clingscouser

4 July 2019

CELEBRATING OUR SCHOOLS - Knowsley Education Awards • Continued from Page 1 Teacher of the Year was Darren Partington from Northwood Community Primary, and the Governing Body of the Year Award went to St John Fisher Catholic Primary in Knowsley Village.

Meanwhile, Ethan Jones and Katie Askell from Park View Academy, Jessica Hughes from St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic High in Whiston and Katie Maudsley from Alt Bridge School all picked up awards recognising an Outstanding Contribution to School Life.

Guests enjoyed fantastic entertainment from pupils from Prescot Primary and Plantation Primary at the prestigious event, hosted at the historical Knowsley Hall.

Cllr Margaret Harvey, Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “To see so many inspirational teaching staff and high-achieving pupils from Knowsley being recognised for their efforts tonight is fantastic.

“Behind each of the award winners is an incredible story of commitment and determination of which Knowsley can be extremely proud.

“Congratulations to all the winners, who have inspired us all.”

The Knowsley Education Awards 2019 winners in full: Outstanding Contribution to School Life (Primary) 1. Ethan Jones – Park View Academy, Huyton.

Katie Askell – Park View Academy, Huyton.

Outstanding Contribution to School Life (Secondary) 2. Jessica Hughes – St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Centre for Learning, Whiston.

Outstanding Contribution to School Life (Special) 3. Katie Maudsley – Alt Bridge School, Huyton.

Outstanding Achievement (Primary) 4. Philip Walker – St Columba’s Catholic Primary School, Huyton.

Outstanding Achievement (Secondary) 5. Katy Allen – Halewood Academy.

Outstanding Achievement (Special) 6. Sonny Horrocks – Alt Bridge School, Huyton.

Artist of the Year 7. Michael Rowan – The Prescot School.

Scientist of the Year 8. Olivia Melbourne – Holy Family Catholic Primary, Halewood.

Sports Person of the Year 9. Rueben Canavan – All Saints Catholic High, Kirkby.

Apprentice of the Year 10. Stephen Johnson – Northwood Community Primary, Kirkby.

10. Leah Gould – Knowsley Village Primary.

Teacher of the Year 11. Darren Partington – Northwood Community Primary, Kirkby.

Support Champion of the Year 12. Stan Fitzpatrick – St Laurence’s Primary, Kirkby.

Team of the Year 13. Attendance Team – St Columba’s Catholic Primary, Huyton.

14. Inclusion Team – Lord Derby Academy, Huyton.

Education Leadership Award 15. Barry Kerwin – Alt Bridge School, Huyton.

Governing Body of the Year 16. St John Fisher Catholic Primary, Knowsley Village.

Next Generation: Business Partnership of the Year 17. Jaguar Land Rover.

Diversity and Inclusion Award 18. Emma Hart – Stockbridge Village Primary.

Curriculum Innovation Award 19. Halewood Church of England Primary.

Transforming Lives Through Partnership Award 20. Future Female Leaders – Halewood Academy.

School of the Year 21. Knowsley Lane Primary, Huyton.

Front Cover. Kirkby High School.

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6 July 2019

Local residents take part in gardening workshop Residents in Stockbridge Village explored the world of gardening and developed their skills in a recent gardening masterclass.

Preparations for this year’s Knowsley Flower Show were well underway at the workshop where the show’s committee shared their expertise in growing plants and vegetables.

From planting seeds to nurturing them in the best way, the gardening novices were shown how to grow and keep cucumber plants, tomato plants, chai plants, and more.

Residents could choose to enter these plants in the show or decide to use the tips and tricks they were taught to grow their own outside of the session.

The workshop wasn’t all focused on entering the Knowsley Flower; those who attended discovered all of the benefits of growing own produce.

The team from Knowsley’s Incredible Edible community growing project came along to encourage people to grow their

own food which can help you to eat more healthily and save money on food bills.

The workshop took place at Craig’s Community Centre and was possible thanks to funding from ForHousing.

The community garden at Craig’s Community Centre on Little Moss Hey is currently undergoing a renovation and the team are eager for the local community to be involved.

If you’d like some support with developing your growing skills, come and see the Incredible Edible team and volunteers at the garden every Friday between 2pm and 8pm until end of November 2019. You can also visit the garden every day of the week between 9am and 8pm.

If you’d like to find out more about growing your own produce, visit the Incredible Edible website. If you’d like to find out more about entering your plants, flowers, vegetables or even crafts, in the Knowsley Flower Show on 4 August, visit the website.

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Kirkby Market 0151 546 5550 Huyton Lansdowne Way 0151 449 0049 E: kevin.brand@btconnect.com W: www.kirkbyblindsdirectltd.co.uk

Free shuttlebuses at the Knowsley Flower Show Property developer Bellway and travel company Stagecoach is sponsoring one of the shuttle buses for this year’s Knowsley Flower Show, allowing visitors to get to and from the event for free.

Bellway is teaming with Stagecoach to sponsor the shuttle bus between Huyton bus station and Court Hey Park, the flower show’s home for the past 21 years.

Jenny Bell, sales director at Bellway, said: “It’s the first time we have been involved in the Knowsley Flower Show and are thrilled to support such a special event.

“With 20,000 visitors expected, the shuttle buses provide efficient and easy access to the event, ensuring it continues to attract as many people as possible from across the North West. We are looking forward to the day itself.”

Cllr Shelley Powell, cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “I’m really pleased that it’s so easy for visitors to get to Knowsley Flower Show. You can leave your car at home and jump on a free shuttle bus running across Knowsley regularly throughout the day or if you do prefer to drive, there’s a large on site car park for all day parking at just £4 per vehicle. With free transport and free entry into the show, it’s an ideal day out for all of the family.”

The Knowsley Flower Show is a flagship event in the community and is the largest free horticultural show in the North West, with lots of attractions, entertainment and activities planned to celebrate.

The event takes place on Sunday 4 August 2019 between 11am at 5pm at Court Hey Park, Huyton.

More information about the event is available on the Knowsley Flower Show website, or on its Facebook page. You can also download the timetable for all the shuttle bus services and plan your journey now.

July 2019 7

8 July 2019

challenge entertainment What’s On July MONDAY 1 JULY ADVANCED WALKING - MILL DAM PARK 10am – 1pm Kirkby Mill Dam Park, Play & Environment Centre, Mill Lane, Kirkby, L32 2AU. Advanced walking 4-6 miles (approx. 3 hours) Call 489 1239 if you have any questions.

KNIT & NATTER GROUP - HUYTON LIBRARY 10:30am – 12:00pm Huyton Library, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD. Bring along any project you are doing, knitting or crochet. Swap patterns and ideas, make new friends and have a cuppa and a chat. All levels of experience welcome. Please ask branch staff for more details or call 443 3734 SWANSIDE COMMUNITY CENTRE - FAMILY & TOTS GROUP 1pm – 3pm Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton L14 6XA. With soft play and lots of outside play. £3 per child. For more information please call 0151 489 2370 KAB'S (KIDS ACTIVITIES AND BOOTCAMPS) - (AGES 4-13YRS) - (KIRKBY) 5:15pm – 6:45pm Northwood Community Centre.

Fully qualified coach, PT Instructor with lots of experience and qualifications with children. For ages 4-13 years. Cost £6 per session, £10 for 2 sessions. Contact Tommy Cashen - 07525 166584, hello@kabs-fitness.co.uk TUESDAY 2 JULY KNOWSLEY VILLAGE COMMUNITY DROP IN SESSION 9:30am – 11:30am Bob Whiley Community Centre, Shop Road, Knowsley Village, L34 0HD. Community Drop in Session every first & fourth Tuesday of the month Contact 0151 548 4545 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 THE HUYTON ACADEMY FOR PERFORMING ARTS (AGES 4-11YRS) 4:00pm – 8:30pm The Venue, Civic Way, Poplar Bank, Huyton, L36 9GD. Quality performing arts academy specialising in primary children aged 411. Classes in Dance, Drama & Singing. For ages 4-6yrs, 4.15pm - 5pm. Call Jane: 07595 538755 Email: Huyton_arts@live.com YOUTH CLUB FOR AGE 12+ (HALEWOOD) 6:30pm – 9:30pm Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Youth Club for age 12+ - Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm - 9.30pm - £1 Contact: Mark Nelson 0151 486 2865.

VICTORIOUS SECRETS NETBALL TEAM (AGES 16+) (PRESCOT) 8pm – 9pm The Prescot School, Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot L34 3NB. Fun Netball Session suitable for all abilities no experience needed. Ages 16+ £4 per session (Free for 1st timers). Contact Emma Farley - farley.emma@icloud.com WEDNESDAY 3 JULY COFFEE MORNING (ADULTS) - (HUYTON REBOUND) 9am – 10am Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. A friendly get together - a cuppa and a chat Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ LINE DANCING (ADULTS) - (HUYTON) 10am – 11am Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. A fun and friendly class and a great work out for all ages.

Suitable for beginners. Price: £3. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ W.I.K.E.D. DANCE (AGES 7-10) 5:30pm – 7:00pm The George Howard Centre, Lickers Lane, Whiston L35 3PN. W.I.K.E.D. is a voluntary run, not for profit, community dance group and our aim is to encourage our children to have fun, whilst keeping fit and meeting new people. All out classes help to build confidence, enhance co-ordination and encourage fitness and there are no competitions, no expensive uniform and no contracts. Just lots and lots of fun. Contact Helen 07954 134599 or Julie 07828 092219 for further details.

PRESCOT SWIMMING CLUB - (HUYTON) 7:30pm – 9:00pm Knowsley Leisure & Culture

Park, Longview Drive, Huyton L36 6EG. Prescot Swimming Club was established in 1967 in Prescot to promote the teaching of swimming and the coaching of swimmers at all levels of competition. The Club offers a warm and friendly atmosphere for swimmers. Parents/ guardians are encouraged to stay and watch their child swim and discuss their development with the coaches.

For further information email: info@prescotswimmingclub.org THURSDAY 4 JULY NORDIC WALKING AT COURT HEY PARK 10am – 12pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool L16 3NA. Regular Nordic Walks at Court Hey Park led by qualified instructors. Knowsley residents only. All abilities welcome. Poles and instruction provided.

Meet at 9.45.am. For more information please contact Karen Brady, Green Space Ranger, 0151 443 3114 Mobile: 07771 550843 SEWING CLUB 12pm – 3pm Stockbridge Village Neighbourhood Centre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village L28 1AB. Come and join our sewing club, all abilities welcome. Organised by the Stockbridge Community Intergeneration Project, for further details please contact Margaret O'Sullivan, mosully@hotmail.co.uk - 07926 473711 COMICS YOUTH CENTRE 63 SENIOR WORKSHOPS (AGES 13-18) 6:45pm – 8:30pm Centre 63, Old Hall Lane, Kirkby, L32 5TH. We deliver a Juniors workshop for children aged 8-12 from 4.30 - 6.30pm, and a Seniors workshop for young people aged 13 - 18 from 6.45pm - 8.30pm. Comics Youth workshops are free and all materials are provided! Contact: Rhiannon Griffiths- 07525369624 FRIDAY 5 JULY SOCIAL VARIETY AFTERNOON (AGES 50+) 1pm – 3pm Roby Community Hub, Merton Crescent, Roby L36 4LD. Enjoy an afternoon of quizzes, games, sing-a-longs, dance, raffle, bingo and general all round fun (novelty gift prizes).

Sessions are £2.50 per person (includes raffle, bingo, tea/coffee and biscuits)/ Please note that classes are subject to change quarterly and there can be timetabling charges - be sure to check out monthly timetable. For further details and to book your place contact Yvonne Rea 0151 559 3061, yvonnerea@aukmm.org.uk BASKETBALL COACHING SESSION (AGES 7+) 7pm – 8pm Halewood Leisure Centre, Baileys Lane, Halewood L26 0TY. Basketball coaching sessions for all abilities. Ages 7 upwards to adult.

Contact Volair for costs - 443 2200. Contact club coach Reg Allen 487 8994 for further details.

SATURDAY 6 JULY KNOWSLEY PARKRUN - (WHISTON) 9am – 10am Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane, Whiston L35 3RG. Every Saturday morning, Stadt Moers Park plays host to the Knowsley parkrun starting at 9am. It’s a free to enter timed 5k event that encourages people of all ages and abilities to get active and enjoy the great outdoors. It doesn’t matter whether you’re anexperienced runner, a jogger or just want a leisurely stroll, you‘ll be made to feel welcome enjoy yourself. To take part in parkrun as a runner or to volunteer, just visit the Knowsley parkrun website - and register.

If you would like more information please email organisers at knowsleyhelpers@parkrun.com HALEWOOD TOWN JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB 10am – 12pm Halewood Town JFC Acade. We encourage young people to enjoy and play football from an early age and help train and develop players to compete in teams. We have both boys and girls football teams from Under 7 to open age. £2 per session. Contact email: 10georgev@tiscali.co.uk 07931 660195 MONDAY 8 JULY ADVANCED WALKING - MILL DAM PARK 10am – 1pm Kirkby Mill Dam Park, Play & Environment Centre, Mill Lane, Kirkby L32 2AU. Advanced walking 4-6 miles (approx. 3 hours) Call 489 1239 if you have any questions.

CARDIAC REHAB WALKS AT COURT HEY PARK 11:00am – 12:30pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool L16 3NA. Approx. 1 mile (45 minutes walks) For more information call the South Huyton ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843.

REBOUND YOUTH DANCE PRESCOT (AGES 8+) (PRESCOT) 4:30pm – 5:30pm Tesco Community Room, Tesco Prescot, Cables Retail Park, Prescot, L34 5NQ. For Children Aged 8 +. An exciting dance class of various styles. Price: £3.50. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ Shi'hing Kung Fu (Ages 7 - Adult) - (Tarbock Green) 5:45pm – 7:00pm Tarbock Village Hall, Netherley Road, Tarbock Green, L35 1QG. Learn selfdefence and Kung Fu. 17:45 to 19:00 for ages 5+ with no upper age limit, and 19:00-20:00 are for adults only. Contact: admin@tarbockhall.co.uk or 07746 123855 for further information TUESDAY 9 JULY SWANSIDE COMMUNITY CENTRE - CATHY'S TODDLERS (AGES 2+) 9:15am – 11:15am Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton L14 6XA. For ages 2 plus, you can leave your children here and they have lots of craft & play & healthy snack and its £4.00 per session. For more information please call 0151 489 2370 GET UP AND MOVE (OVER 50S) - (ROBY) 12pm – 1pm Roby Community Hub, Merton Crescent, Roby L36 4LD. Come along, get active and have some fun with our ‘Get up and Move’ gentle exercises to music. Sessions are £2.60 per person. For further details please contact Yvonne Rea 0151 559 3061, enquiries@aukmm.org.uk KNOWSLEY HARRIERS JUNIOR RUNNING SESSIONS (AGES 7-17) - (KIRKBY) 6:00pm – 6:45pm Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue, Southdene, Kirkby, L32 9PP. Track & field based fun sport athletic activities & games session for Junior athletes aged between 7-17 years old.

See www.knowsley-harriers.com for further details WEDNESDAY 10 JULY MEMORY LANE - KNOWSLEY DEMENTIA CARE SUPPORT (HALEWOOD) 10am – 2pm The Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA. Our aim is to provide emotional & practical support to carers - respite groups, functions, advice. We also endeavour to provide stimulating care for those with dementia. Contact details: 07858 032 490, kdcsmemorylane@live.co.uk PILATES - (HUYTON) 1pm – 2pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. Pilates wil improve your flexibility, posture, core strength and reduce back pain. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ LIVERPOOL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY - WEEKLY PUBLIC MEETING AT THE LEIGHTON OBSERVATORY 7pm – 9pm Leighton Observatory, Pex Hill, Cronton, WA8 5QW. Weekly public meetings are held every Wednesday evening (except at Christmas week) in the Liverpool Astronomical Society’s Leighton Observatory. Children who wish to visit must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

THURSDAY 11 JULY NORDIC WALKING AT COURT HEY PARK 10am – 12pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road,

Knowsley L16 3NA. Regular Nordic Walks at Court Hey Park led by qualified instructors.

Knowsley residents only. All abilities welcome.

Poles and instruction provided. Meet at 9.45.am.

For more information please contact Karen Brady, Green Space Ranger, 0151 443 3114 STREET DANCE CLASS (AGES 8+) - (HUYTON) 5pm – 6pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. A class that's fast and funky for ages 8yrs and over. Price: £3 or any two for £5/week. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ RUNNING SESSIONS (AGES 16 - ADULT) - HALEWOOD 6:50pm – 8:00pm Halewood Environment Centre, Okell Drive, Halewood, L26 7XB. Road running sessions delivered by Knowsley Harriers Athletics Club for both beginners and more experienced runners. Ages 16+. Free. See www.knowsleyharriers.com/ for further details FRIDAY 12 JULY SWANSIDE COMMUNITY CENTRE - AFTERNOON TEA FOR OVER 60S 1pm – 3pm Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton L14 6XA. Served in beautiful china, come along and join us today for some wonderful company with inspirational people... Cost £4.00 for the afternoon tea, we sometimes have a singer visiting us and on those occasions the cost is £5.00 for the tea and the singer. For more information please call 0151 489 2370

MONDAY 15 JULY WALKING FOR BEGINNERS (HALEWOOD WALKING CLUB) - HALEWOOD 10am – 11am Halewood Park, Okell Drive.

Halewood, L26 7XB. Beginners walking 1 mile (approx. 45 minutes) Please call 488 6151 for more information YOGA (ADULTS) - (HUYTON) 11:15am – 12:15pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. A community yoga class open to all ages and abilities.

Stretch, tone, improve balance etc. Also helps with relaxation and sleep. Spare mats available. Price: £4. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ KNOWSLEY VILLAGE YOUTH CLUB 5:30pm – 8:30pm The Bob Whiley Community Centre, Shop Road, Knowsley Village, L34 0HD. Generic youth club activities including arts and crafts, sports, game station, issue-based provision and youth centred projects. For ages 11 to 19.

Cost free. Contact: 0151 443 4542 SWANSIDE COMMUNITY CENTRE - WOMAN’S GROUP 8pm – 10pm Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton L14 6XA. Weekly woman's group, each week there is a speaker or some type of entertainment like craft, quizzes, social night or bring & buy. Fantastic evening that starts at 8pm For more information please call 0151 489 2370 TUESDAY 16 JULY GET UP AND MOVE (OVER 50S) - (ROBY) 12pm – 1pm Roby Community Hub, Merton Crescent, Roby, L36 4LD. Come along, get active and have some fun with our "Get up and Move" gentle exercises to music. Sessions are £2.60 per person. For further details please contact Yvonne Rea 0151 559 3061, enquiries@aukmm.org.uk MUSICALITY JUNIORS DANCE AND DRAMA MUSICALITY PRODUCTIONS (AGES 5-11) (HALEWOOD) 4pm – 6pm The Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA

July 2019 9

Juniors session. Performers work towards regular shows learning dance, drama and singing technique at an intermediate level. Contact us for class fees and to book your place, must book at least 1 week in advance. email: musicalityproductions@hotmail.co.uk Call: 07712 463932 1982 (HUYTON) SQUADRON ROYAL AIR FORCE AIR CADETS (AGES 12-18) 7:00pm – 9:30pm Air Cadet Hut, The Park, Rydal Road, Huyton, L36 5UX. The RAF Air Cadets is a youth organisation for 12-18 year olds in the South Liverpool area, offering Flying, Gliding, Shooting, Duke of Edinburgh, Sports, Adventure training and BTEC's plus much more! Cost - £12.50 a month (first month free). Contact: General Enquiries, Tel: 0151449 3012, Mobile: 07766 810695 WEDNESDAY 17 JULY COFFEE MORNING (ADULTS) - (HUYTON REBOUND) 9am – 10am Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. A friendly get together - a cuppa and a chat Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ ENVIRONMENTAL TASK DAYS @ HALEWOOD PARK 10am – 12pm Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood L26 7XB. Halewood Park Volunteers Various practical activities in the great outdoors, including tree and wildflower planting, woodland and pond management and habitat creation. Please call 0151 488 6151 for more information.

BKR JU-JITSU 7pm – 8pm Tarbock Village Hall, Netherley Road, Tarbock Green, L35 1QG. Learn self-defence and Ju-jitsu. Perfect for self discipline, strength, confidence and more. Contact: admin@tarbockhall.co.uk or 07746 123855 for further information THURSDAY 18 JULY ARNCLIFFE CENTRE YOGA CLASS 10:00am – 11:30am Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA. Yoga class for relaxation exercise, breathing, stretching and feeling good. For teens and adults. Please contact for costs. Contact: June Baxter, 0151 486 3874 EXCEL SCHOOL OF DANCE 3:45pm – 6:45pm The Robert Foulkes Centre, Brook Street, Whiston, L35 5AP. Dance School: Lessons available in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Street, Jazz and Hip Hop. For ages from 3 to 65. We also perform in shows. Pupils are able to take part in competitions or take exams. Cost £4 per class Staff are fully qualified and DBS checked. Contact: Kate Marzelos, 07867 933764, katemarzo@hotmail.co.uk STREETWISE KOREAN MARTIAL ART - MASTER D. JONES (AGES 4 TO ADULT) - (KIRKBY) 7pm – 8pm Kirkby Leisure Centre, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby L32 8SA. Korean martial art for self defence and Olympic sport. Ages 4+ Master grade instruction - 5th Dan Master Grade. Registered B.T.C.B. Recognised by International Olympic Committee (I.O.C) Contact: 0751 5386593 FRIDAY 19 JULY AFTER SCHOOL PLAY CLUB - TERM TIME - (AGES 411) - (HALEWOOD) 3:30pm – 5:45pm Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. For ages 4-11 Cost £3 including snack Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT BASKETBALL COACHING SESSION (AGES 7+) 7pm – 8pm Halewood Leisure Centre, Baileys Lane, Halewood L26 0TY. Basketball coaching sessions for all abilities. Ages 7 upwards to adult.

Contact Volair for costs - 443 2200. Contact club coach Reg Allen 487 8994 for further details.

MONDAY 22 JULY ADVANCED WALKING - MILL DAM PARK 10am – 1pm Kirkby Mill Dam Park, Play & Environment Centre, Mill Lane, Kirkby, L32 2AU. Advanced walking 4-6 miles (approx. 3 hours) Call 489 1239 if you have any questions.

CARDIAC REHAB WALKS AT COURT HEY PARK 11:00am – 12:30pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool L16 3NA. Approx. 1 mile (45 minutes walks) For more information call the South Huyton ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843.

CENTRE 63 YOUTH CLUB - (KIRKBY) 4:30pm – 8:30pm Centre 63 Youth Club, Church of England Youth Centre, Kirkby L32 5TH. The Youth club in Centre 63 is open access for all young people aged 8 - 25 living in Knowsley. Junior session 4.30-6.30pm aged 8-12. Senior session Year 8 upwards 6.30-8.30pm. Contact: 0151 549 1494 info@centre63.co.uk

SWANSIDE COMMUNITY CENTRE - WOMAN'S GROUP 8pm – 10pm Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton L14 6XA. Weekly woman’s group, each week there is a speaker or some type of entertainment like craft, quizzes, social night or bring & buy. Fantastic evening that starts at 8pm For more information please call 0151 489 2370 TUESDAY 23 JULY GET UP AND MOVE (OVER 50S) - (ROBY) 12pm – 1pm Roby Community Hub, Merton Crescent, Roby, L36 4LD. Come along, get active and have some fun with our ‘Get up and Move’ gentle exercises to music. Sessions are £2.60 per person. For further details please contact Yvonne Rea 0151 559 3061, enquiries@aukmm.org.uk MUSICALITY JUNIORS DANCE AND DRAMA MUSICALITY PRODUCTIONS (AGES 5-11) (HALEWOOD) 4pm – 6pm The Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA. Juniors session. Performers work towards regular shows learning dance, drama and singing technique at an intermediate level. Contact us for class fees and to book your place, must book at least 1 week in advance. email: musicalityproductions@hotmail.co.uk Call: 07712 463932 ATHLETICS TRACK SESSIONS (EFFORT BASED) AGE 16+ (KIRKBY) 6:50pm – 8:00pm Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue, Southdene, Kirkby, L32 9PP. Platinum Team – (Varied Interval Session) Gold/Silver/Bronze Team – (Varied Interval Session) Adult Track Sessions – £1 per session See www.knowsley-harriers.com/ for further details VICTORIOUS SECRETS NETBALL TEAM (AGES 16+) (PRESCOT) 8pm – 9pm The Prescot School, Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot L34 3NB. Fun Netball Session suitable for all abilities no experience needed. Ages 16+ £4 per session (Free for 1st timers). Contact Emma Farley - farley.emma@icloud.com

WEDNESDAY 24 JULY ENVIRONMENTAL TASK DAYS @ HALEWOOD PARK 10am – 12pm Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood L26 7XB. Halewood Park Volunteers Various practical activities in the great outdoors, including tree and wildflower planting, woodland and pond management and habitat creation. Please call 0151 488 6151 for more information PILATES - (HUYTON) 1pm – 2pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. Pilates willimprove your flexibility, posture, core strength and reduce back pain. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ MALVERN SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB (AGES 7+) 7pm – 9pm Dovecot MAC, Back Dovecot Place, Dovecot, L14 9BA Classes teaching Shotokan Karate to Children and Adults. Affiliated to the Karate Union of Great Britain. Britain's Largest single Style Karate Association. For ages 7 and Upwards - Adults Welcome Too. Cost £5. Contact: Chris Cray - 07595 258345 malvernkarate@hotmail.co.uk THURSDAY 25 JULY ARNCLIFFE CENTRE YOGA CLASS 10:00am – 11:30am Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA. Yoga class for relaxation exercise, breathing, stretching and feeling good. For teens and adults. Please contact for costs. Contact: June Baxter, 0151 486 3874 SEWING CLUB 12pm – 3pm Stockbridge Village Neighbourhood Centre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village L28 1AB. Come and join our sewing club, all abilities welcome. Organised by the Stockbridge Community Intergeneration Project, for further details please contact Margaret O'Sullivan, mosully@hotmail.co.uk - 07926473711 REBOUND KIDZ (AGES 8-11) 4pm – 5pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton L36 9TE. For Children Aged 8-11. An exciting dance class of various styles. Price: £3.50 or any two for £5/week. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ PEDAL AWAY EVENING CYCLE RIDE @ COURT HEY PARK 6pm – 7pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool L16 3NA. 6:00 pm start.

Evening rides for all adults plus families with children aged over 8 years capable of a steady pace across 9 miles of off road cycle path along the Liverpool Loop Line. Just turn up. Adult bikes & helmets available. Limited child bikes. £1 donation.

Please arrive early as limited number. For more information please contact: 01925 234 213 info@cycling.org.uk RUNNING SESSIONS (AGES 16 - ADULT) - HALEWOOD 6:50pm – 8:00pm Halewood Environment Centre, Okell Drive, Halewood, L26 7XB. Road running

sessions delivered by Knowsley Harriers Athletics Club for both beginners and more experienced runners. Ages 16+. Free. See www.knowsleyharriers.com/ for further details FRIDAY 26 JULY SOCIAL VARIETY AFTERNOON (AGES 50+) 1pm – 3pm Roby Community Hub, Merton Crescent, Roby, L36 4LD. Enjoy an afternoon of quizzes, games, sing-a-longs, dance, raffle, bingo and general all round fun (novelty gift prizes).

Sessions are £2.50 per person. For further details and to book your place contact Yvonne Rea 0151 559 3061, yvonnerea@aukmm.org.uk MONDAY 29 JULY ADVANCED WALKING - MILL DAM PARK 10am – 1pm Kirkby Mill Dam Park, Play & Environment Centre, Mill Lane, Kirkby, L32 2AU. Advanced walking 4-6 miles (approx. 3 hours) Call 489 1239 if you have any questions.

CARDIAC REHAB WALKS AT COURT HEY PARK 11:00am – 12:30pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool L16 3NA. Approx. 1 mile (45 minutes walks) For more information call the South Huyton ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843.

KAB’S (KIDS ACTIVITIES AND BOOTCAMPS) - (AGES 4-13YRS) - (KIRKBY) 5:15pm – 6:45pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, Kirkby, L33 9TW. Fully qualified coach, PT Instructor with lots of experience and qualifications with children. For ages 4-13 years. Cost £6 per session, £10 for 2 sessions. Contact Tommy Cashen - 07525 166584, hello@kabs-fitness.co.uk TUESDAY 30 JULY INTERMEDIATE WALKING - HALEWOOD 1pm – 3pm Halewood Park, Okell Drive.

Halewood, L26 7XB. Intermediate walking 3-4 miles (approx. 2 hours) Please call 488 6151 for more information 1ST WHISTON SCOUT GROUP - EXPLORER SCOUTS (AGES 14+) 5:15pm – 9:15pm. 1st Whiston Scout Group, The George Howard Centre, Whiston L35 3SR. Young people aged between 14 and 18 can join If anyone wants to join or requires more information please come to the centre on any Tuesday or contact Wes@whistonscouts.org.uk 07446 839721 WEDNESDAY 31 JULY ENVIRONMENTAL TASK DAYS @ HALEWOOD PARK 10am – 12pm Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood L26 7XB. Halewood Park Volunteers Various practical activities in the great outdoors, including tree and wildflower planting, woodland and pond management and habitat creation. Please call 0151 488 6151 for more information.

10 July 2019

hundreds flock to prescot carnival

For the eighth successive year Brown’s Field was the scene of much enjoyment as it played host to the 2019 Prescot Carnival.

The Town Council run event continues to attract more and more visitors each year, all of whom are welcome to enjoy a wide variety of free activities and performances throughout the day, along with a large funfair, trader, service provider and community stalls.

Despite the overcast weather visitors flocked in their hundreds to enjoy and support this fantastic community event, those in attendance were treated to performances from:- Keiron Kenny, West Lancs Dog Display Team, Smile Dance Academy and Performing Arts, Jamie Cushion – Prescot’s Got Talent under 16’s Winner, Astrid – The Voice Kids UK 2018, Louise Bergquist, Jan Williams Theatre School and Lauren Oldham – Prescot’s Got Talent over 16’s Winner. Preparations for next year’s Carnival are already underway – if you would like to take part please get in touch.

July 2019 11

Train guard assaulted at Roby station

Recognising the local community This year’s Community Recognition Awards welcomed representatives from over twenty local community groups to Prescot Town Hall to receive awards or donations and help celebrate the richly philanthropic nature of Prescot’s Community.

Those in attendance enjoyed a buffet prepared by the town councillors along with some fun and games to get the evening going.

The Mayor of Prescot Cllr Pat Cook had the privilege of making the awards which included the Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year, these were presented to Karl and Clare Duvall (Red Box Project Knowsley) and Friends of Eaton Street Park respectively.

The Red Box project has had an undoubted benefit on a huge amount of individuals in the Town, by ensuring no more school days were lost as a result of what is now known as ‘period poverty’.

The loss of education to such a problem is simply unacceptable and it is the actions of people like Karl and Clare across the country that have prompted central Government to act nationally to address this issue.

Karl and Clare’s actions in setting up the Red Box Project in Prescot and later the whole of Knowsley is a genuine inspiration and demonstrates what can

be achieved.

Representatives of Friends of Eaton Street Park where also on hand to receive their Community Group of the Year Award.

The Friends have been operating for just over eight years and in that time have made a considerable contribution to the town.

Eaton Street was the first greenspace in Prescot to be recognised with the Green Flag Award.

Since then the park has continued to benefit from the considerable actions of the Friends, attracting considerable external funding to the park that has seen the development of rose gardens, entrance gates, pavilion and seating around the park which was funded by their own activities. The group have also developed its own events program which runs throughout the year.

The outgoing Mayor and Mayoress of Prescot Dave and Jackie Rigby were also in attendance at the awards to present a number of local organisations and groups with donations from the Mayor’s Charity.

Those receiving donations included the Intensive Care Unit and Ward 2A at Whiston Hospital who both received £1,000 each, Prescot Festival £360, Prescot Historic Society £275 and Friends of KGV Brown’s Field and Carr Lane Woods £280.

Karl and Clare Duvall (Red Box Project Knowsley)

Above: The Friends of Eaton Street Park Below: The Prescot Festival

A train guard has suffered injuries in a serious assault while on duty.

The incident took place recently on board a Northern Rail train travelling to Roby railway station.

A spokesman for British Transport Police said a report was made at around 5.40pm, on June 20, that a member of staff had been seriously assaulted.

It is understood that the train guard suffered broken ribs and a punctured lung in the attack and was taken to hospital.

A spokesman for BTP said: “Officers from British Transport Police are currently investigating an incident on board a train travelling to Roby station where a member of staff was seriously assaulted. The report was made shortly before 5.40pm on 20 June.

“Officers attended, however two suspects had already fled the scene.

Enquiries are being made and officers would ask anyone with information to contact BTP by sending a text to 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 427 of 26/06.”

12 July 2019

Residents are encouraged to follow the advice below to help to prevent them being targeted and the victim of fraud:• Never give money to someone who calls unannounced at your home, out in public or who contacts you by phone, letter or email. Criminal gangs are targeting people for their personal information.

• Never share personal information with anyone, even if they claim to be an official.

Always ask for ID and check this, ideally using contact details you find yourself.

• It is a criminal offence to knowingly provide false information on a benefit claim.

Offenders will be prosecuted by DWP. • If you make a false declaration on a benefit claim, it can affect the benefits you already receive.

• ‘Low cost Government loans’ do not exist – if you have been on benefits for longer than six months you could apply for a Budgeting Loan (Budgeting Advance in Universal Credit).

• Free advice and support is available for residents through Citizens Advice Knowsley – call Adviceline on 0300 330 9008 for telephone advice or visit the website for useful advice, locations of offices or start an online chat.

Residents urged to be extra vigilant over scams Residents are being urged to be extra vigilant following an increase in the North West of fraudsters offering ‘low cost government loans’ – such loans do not exist.

Fraudsters are using the scam to obtain personal information to commit fraud and unfortunately, Knowsley residents have fallen victim to this scam after being visited at home by someone claiming to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The fraudsters use the victim’s personal details to make a claim for Universal Credit and request an ‘Advance Payment’.

This is part of a Universal Credit

award which can be received quickly – it can be up to 100% of the value of the Universal Credit claim.

The fraudster then takes a ‘cut’ of the Advance Payment, which in some cases has been paid immediately by the individual in cash. The fraudster then has the victim’s personal details, making them vulnerable to further fraud.

The individuals being targeted don’t realise that, not only will all their current benefits stop and be replaced

by Universal Credit, but that they will then also have to pay back the ‘loan’ (Advance Payment) in full from their future Universal Credit payments.

In some cases, false circumstances

are being reported when the application is made to maximise the potential Universal Credit payment (and therefore the Advance Payment). This means that the victim has an even higher amount to repay from their Universal Credit payments.

Once someone has made a claim for Universal Credit, they will stay on it and won’t be able to return to their original benefits.

Councillor Jayne Aston, cabinet member for resources at Knowsley Council, said: “It’s a disgrace that some of our most vulnerable residents are being targeted in this way and they need to be aware of these criminals in our communities.

“The council will be working with its various partners to protect our residents to stop this fraudulent scam”.

If you’d like information and advice about Universal Credit, KHT’s website has an Advice Hub where you can find help and support with Universal Credit.

If you have been affected by fraudsters, please report it to www.actionfraud.police.uk. If you think a neighbour is being targeted, or if you see suspicious activity, call Merseyside Police on 101 or contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506.

We’re W e’re Hiring Hiring We ha We have ve a ra range nge of vvacancies acancies available available in our repairs and d maintenance team, team, including:

Electrician

Multi-skilled Joiner x 2

Multi-skilled Plasterer

Driver/Labourer x 2

Take further T ak a e a look at a our website website for fu urther details www.firstarrk.com and to apply - www.firstark.com C Closing date: 31st July 201 2019 9

July 2019 13

Knowsley CVS announce major rebrand to One Knowsley Knowsley based charity, Knowsley CVS, have unveiled a new name as part of an extensive strategic initiative.

The charity is now known as One Knowsley.

The rebrand and new website, OneKnowsley.org, represents a significant step in the charity’s evolution. Enabling higher levels of engagement and sharing of knowledge across the Social Sector, it will increase opportunities for collaboration across sectors and communities.

One Knowsley have redefined who they are and have created a range of new services and initiatives, with which to drive change and positively shape Knowsley’s approach to working with, and supporting the voluntary, community, faith and social businesses across the borough.

The new brand and website was revealed at Prescot Cables FC. Around 100 key stakeholders from the public, private and social sector came together to support One Knowsley and the important work that they do.

Chief Operating Officer, Racheal Jones, said “The strength of our relationship with the Knowsley Social Sector and our commitment to working collaboratively have resulted in One Knowsley becoming a single point of contact for all sectors, working alongside our partners in

From left to right: David Parr, chair of One Knowsley, Racheal Jones, chief operating officer, One Knowsley, Councillor Graham Morgan, leader of Knowsley Council

Knowsley Better Together creates new opportunities and ways of working as well as a strong collective voice for the

social economy”.

For more information on One Knowsley visit OneKnowsley.org

Final funding boost for Bowring Park Knowsley Council’s Cabinet has agreed to invest £450,000 to complete the comprehensive, whole site restoration of the historic Bowring Park in Huyton.

The park, the oldest in the borough, is currently benefitting from a £1.9 million Heritage Lottery funded project that is seeing a range of physical improvements implemented, along with new landscape features, replanting of gardens and work to repair, renovate and restore key elements of the park.

This additional funding that has now been agreed by the council will enable the refurbishment of the coach house to be completed, along with improvements to the stable block.

Cllr Graham Morgan, leader of Knowsley Council, said: “I am delighted that cabinet colleagues have agreed this additional funding for what is undeniably one of our most historic assets here in Knowsley.

“The money we secured through the Heritage Lottery fund has been central to

allowing us to realise some of our aspirations for the site and therefore we are pleased to be able to allocate additional budget to ensure the complete development and improvements can be delivered.

“We know how much parks and open spaces matter much to our communities and despite our budgets dwindling, we remain committed to investing, wherever possible, to ensure our open spaces are the wonderful much-used assets we want them to be.

“Hopefully once complete, Bowring Park will provide lots of benefits to the Knowsley community and go on to achieve Green Flag status – bringing our total in Knowsley to 19 – something we are incredibly proud of.”

When complete, the improvements at the park will provide additional benefits including opportunities for a broad range of community activities, heritage walks, educational links with schools and colleges and volunteering opportunities.

KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL SCHEME OF MEMBERS’ ALLOWANCES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Authorities (Members’ Allowances) (England) Regulations 2003, the Council of the Borough of Knowsley received a report and recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel in respect of a Scheme of Allowances for 2019/20 for the Authority’s Elected Members.

The rates of Basic and Special Responsibility Allowances will therefore be as follows: £ Basic Allowance

9,667.84

In summary, the Panel recommended the following:

Leader of the Council

29,003.52

(i)

That, for the 2019/20 municipal year, the indexation of Members’ Allowances should continue to be linked to the pay award given to Local Government Service employees;

Leader of the Opposition*

7,250.88*

Cabinet Member

14,501.76

That no in borough travel expenses will be reimbursed, as in the previous year’s Scheme;

Scrutiny Committee Chairperson

7,250.88

Scrutiny Committee Vice Chairperson

3,625.44

Planning Committee Chairperson

7,250.88

Licensing Committee Chairperson

7,250.88

Governance and Audit Committee Chairperson

7,250.88

(iv) That the maximum levels of subsistence which may be claimed by Elected Members remain unchanged and be paid at the 2018/19 levels, (where such expenditure has been incurred in the performance of an authorised duty);

Policy Advisory Board Chairperson

7,250.88

Policy Advisory Board Vice Chairperson

3,625.44

(v)

Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority Representative

1,933.57

(ii)

(iii) That the car mileage rate remain unchanged and fixed (at a flat rate of 45p per mile) in line with the HM Revenue and Customs tax free rate and the rate for motorcycles remain unchanged and fixed (at a flat rate of 18.4p per mile) irrespective of engine size and only be reimbursed for out of borough travel for authorised duties;

That the Elected Members’ Communications Package remain unchanged, supporting members in their role as Councillor;

(vi) That the maximum level of allowance which may be claimed towards the cost of childcare and carers continue to be set at the Living Wage level; and (vii) That a voluntary policy for Parental Leave be introduced into the Scheme of Members’ Allowances during 2019/20.

Following consideration of the report of the Independent Remuneration Panel, the Council, at its Annual Meeting held on 17 May 2019, noted the Panel’s recommendations set out above. In relation to Special Responsibility Allowances, the Council noted the Panel’s recommendations and adopted the levels of allowances for the proposed decision making structure as detailed in this notice.

The Council adopted the Scheme of Members’ Allowances for 2019/20 (in line with the Independent Remuneration Panel’s recommendations (i) to (vii) above) with immediate effect subject to an amendment to the Special Responsibility Allowance for the Leader of the Opposition, as shown by the asterisk in the table.

In addition, the Council will meet the costs of any Allowances paid to the Council’s nominees on the Liverpool City Region Transport Committee in the event that the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority determines to pay such allowances.

*If the opposition groups are equally balanced, the Leader of the Opposition’s Special Responsibility Allowance (as set out above) will be split equally between those groups.

A copy of the Independent Remuneration Panel’s report and the Council’s Scheme of Members’ Allowances, as amended, are available on line at www.knowsley.gov.uk and may be inspected at the One Stop Shop, Municipal Buildings, Archway Road, Huyton during office hours.

For further information, please contact Lynn Cairns on 0151 443 3107 or by email at lynn.cairns@knowsley.gov.uk

Mike Harden Chief Executive Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Municipal Buildings, Archway Road, Huyton L36 9YU

July 2019

14 July 2019

CHALLENGE EDUCATION

News from around the region Art students’ work displayed at national exhibition Three Winstanley College art students Emily Broughton, James Knowles and Poppy Halliwell will be exhibiting work at 'Cloud Land', the Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA) show at London's Alexandra Palace.

The talented trio have produced six outstanding specially commissioned pieces which will be on display to visiting schools, colleges, general visitors and gig goers at this iconic location.

The National Arts Exhibition, focusing on flight, launched with an event on Thursday 27 June and is designed to recognise and celebrate excellence in the arts.

We want to thank the students for their hard work at such a busy time and hope they are looking forward to visiting the show next week.

Some of the commissioned work produced by the art students mentioned for Cloud Land exhibition

KIRKBY HIGH CELEBRATE SUCCESS AT KNOWSLEY EDUCATION AWARDS 2019 Kirkby High School are celebrating after winning School of the Year at the recent Knowsley Education Awards 2019.

Headteacher Mrs Conefrey, said: “Congratulations must go to all staff, students, parents and governors at Kirkby High School for winning the award of School of the Year and a commendation for the Governing Body at the Knowsley Education Awards.

“This is thoroughly deserved recognition of the work Kirkby High School performs on a daily basis in order to provide the best possible opportunities for every child in our care.

“The consistent determination and belief in what we can achieve at Kirkby High School clearly contributes to our success.

Knowsley Council said: “Kirkby High School has so much to celebrate as it continues on its rapid journey of improvement, as

recognised recently by Ofsted. And now it’s our joint School of the Year at the #KnowsleyEducationAwards.

Congratulations”!

July 2019 15

Carmel College retains its Ofsted Outstanding status!

Carmel College has retained its ‘Outstanding’ status after it was reinspected by Ofsted at the end of April 2019.

The college was graded outstanding when it was previously inspected in 2007.

This makes Carmel the only Outstanding Sixth Form College nationally, that has retained its outstanding grade over the last ten years.

Carmel has around 2300 students, including 300 higher education students.

Fifty per cent of Carmel’s students come from widening participation postcodes, however the college is consistently ranked in the top 10 colleges nationally for the amount of progress students make.

The college attracts applications from over 90 high schools across St Helens and neighbouring boroughs.

Last year, over 75per cent of students who left Carmel went to work, train or continue their studies in employment areas identified as priorities by the Liverpool City Region LEP. In total, over

98 per cent of students made a positive progression from Carmel to university, further education, apprenticeships or employment.

The college work hard to support local schools to ensure that as many young people as possible, from our area of the North West, are able to progress onto sustainable and positive careers.

They provide local schools with support

Bickerstaffe celebrate 175 years of serving the community

from staff and students who act as mentors to help motivate and aspire high school students, especially in the areas of maths, creative and digital and life sciences.

With support from the Chambers of Commerce and Liverpool Hope University, they have also this year launched the Carmel Service and Leaders Award. This builds on the community work and volunteering opportunities the college encourages all of our students to take advantage of, great emphasis is also placed on providing excellent careers advice and guidance.

The Ofsted report stated: “Students strive to achieve the very high standards their teachers set. They make excellent progress, achieve their qualifications and

progress to aspirational destinations.”

Carmel College principal Mike Hill, said: “We are extremely happy with the Ofsted report and proud that we continue to be an Outstanding College.

“This is a fitting reward for the hard work of the whole staff at Carmel, both academic and support, who strive to uphold the college mission and ensure the best outcome for every individual student.

“The commitment and dedication of our fantastic students, who we are blessed to serve, also rightly received considerable praise from the Inspectors.

“We hope that Carmel’s success can also support and nurture the continued improvement in education across St Helens and help inspire younger students to perform at their very best.”

Northwood Community Primary School Huge thanks to Knowsley Council Well done to Darren Partington Teacher of the Year 2019 Proud to serve the community of Kirkby #KnowsleyBetterTogether #Kirkby&Proud Bickerstaffe CE School celebrated in style to mark the school’s 175 birthday, which included approximately 120 guests.

After visiting classes to talk to the children, special guest the Bishop of Liverpool, Paul Bayes opened proceedings by offering prayers and blessings for the school, children, staff, parents and local community. The school were also delighted to welcome ex members of staff, ex pupils as well as residents from the local area to help them celebrate.

Two bagpipers lead the children and VIP guests from the school building onto the field where they performed in front of an audience.

The children from class one sang a song that they had created especially for the occasion, class two children performed a poem that they had written with help from local resident, Sheila Beeby and class three re-enacted memories from past pupils over the years.

The audience were amazed to learn that in approximately 1908, a child had kicked a ball over the school fence into the

adjoining farm. Upon collecting the ball, the farm manager locked the child in a shed for the afternoon as a punishment!

Class four then performed another song with dance actions for the audience.

Guests also enjoyed watching the children perform traditional morris and maypole dances, which the school performs annually in June at the Village Treat Day. The school were also delighted that Gaynor Owen, the Mayor of West Lancashire, attended and officially cut the birthday cake, which signalled the start of afternoon tea.

The school’s PTFA served a selection of sandwiches and cakes with tea and coffee and guests were entertained by former pupils Isla Webster and Isobel Housley who sang for the audience as they tucked in to their afternoon tea, guests were also given a small gift to take away with them to remind them of the special occasion.

Headteacher Maggie Teachen, said: “Everyone enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new acquaintances.

The weather, which had been mostly rain, stayed dry with some bouts of sunshine”.

Find us at NCPS.co.uk Follow us twitter.com/NorthwoodCPS

16 July 2019

CHALLENGE EDUCATION

News from around the region Supported Intern awarded VIP experience at Olly Murs concert Supported Internship student, Kelsey, enjoyed an exclusive night at the Manchester Arena recently after becoming the lucky winner of two Olly Murs tickets.

The tickets, kindly donated to Knowsley Council from Knowsley Chamber and Leonard Curtis as part of the Knowsley Better Together Initiative, granted Kelsey and her Mum a VIP experience in one the arena’s private hospitality boxes.

Kelsey, who is an avid Olly Murs fan, was nominated to receive the tickets by her mentor Owen, for the outstanding progress she has made throughout her time on the programme, leading to Kelsey securing permanent paid employment.

Kelsey was one of 12 young learners with additional needs studying the Supported Internship Programme, which launched in September 2016.

The programme, facilitated by Knowsley Community College in conjunction with Knowsley Council, aims to help young people, aged 16-25, with additional needs, who are seeking the skills, experience and confidence to enter

employment but require some extra support.

As part of the programme, interns work on developing their independence, confidence, communication and employability skills as well as gaining invaluable work experience over the academic year.

When Kelsey first started the programme, working as an intern within the business support team at Knowsley Council, she found it hard to adapt to change but was determined to improve her confidence and communication skills, speak to new people and gain workplace skills that would help her to secure a paid job in the future.

Speaking about her role, Kelsey said: “I love my job in business support. I used to be shy but I am much more confident now. I have made many friends and talk to lots of staff when I deliver their post. I love getting up and going to work every day - it’s great being part of the team.”

In her role Kelsey was originally responsible for the collection and franking of the outgoing post, her daily tasks now include the updating of the post

“

I love getting up and going to work every day it’s great being part of the team

spreadsheet, and preparing paper-based information into batches ready to be digitised.

Owen said: “Kelsey progressed her way through the internship with great determination. She gained valuable transferable skills and confidence in her own ability. She massively improved her

”

personal and social skills. I couldn’t think of anyone more fitting to be awarded the tickets.”

After completing a full year of her internship and impressing Knowsley Council with her hard work and determination, Kelsey has since secured a permanent, paid position with them.

Schools are going from strength to strength St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School in Kirkby has secured a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating with inspectors stating the school is “going from strength to strength.”

The school’s last inspection was in March last year, when it was judged to be ‘Requires improvement’. In just 12 months, the school has achieved ‘Good’ judgements in all inspection areas – effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; outcomes for pupils and early years provision.

Inspectors noted that the governing body works effectively with senior leaders and that leaders have high expectations and ambition.

Leaders ensure that there is a broad and balanced curriculum, which is well structured and engaging.

Attainment was also highlighted as improving and that attainment at the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics in key stages 1 and 2 had increased. Extra-curricular activities were

also enhancing learning.

Parents also supported the Ofsted inspection and they spoke in a highly positive manner about the school and particularly the improvements to leadership at the school.

Inspectors highlighted that the school had benefitted from effective support from Knowsley Council and the Archdiocese, with areas for improvement that had previously been raised have now been tackled effectively.

Strengths at the school are shared with other local schools providing them with support around moderation of assessment information, subject development in reading and aspects of personal social, health and economic education.

Cllr Margaret Harvey, cabinet member for children’s services, said “I’m delighted with the ‘Good’ outcome for St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School which shows that their hard work and commitment has paid off to drive forward the improvements needed.

“Pupils are receiving high standards of teaching, along with the opportunity to

develop their skills and knowledge through spiritual and cultural development being woven into the curriculum, along with extra-curricular activities on offer.

“Pupils are proud of their school – and rightly so. This is a very positive report and well done to everyone involved!”

Roby Park Primary School in Huyton has also recently undergone a transformation in the last two years, moving from ‘Requires Improvement’ in 2017 to ‘Good’ in their latest Ofsted inspection which took place last month.

In all areas assessed, the school was rated as ‘Good’ with the overall judgement ‘Good’ too.

The areas assessed includes effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; outcomes for pupils and early years provision.

Inspectors noted that a culture of high expectation exists, staff morale is high and rates of progress have been strengthened. Inspectors also noted

improvements with how the school’s governors work – they have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and what needs to be done to achieve more.

Roby Park is described as a ‘happy, inclusive school’, and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive the support they need to succeed and leadership in this area is highlighted as strong.

Inspectors also highlighted the close working arrangements between the school and Knowsley Council, that has provided support to the school.

This support, combined with the sharing of good practice within the school, has proved effective in moving the school forward.

As well as providing a varied curriculum, pupils’ learning is enriched through other learning opportunities such as Spanish lessons as well as regular visitors to the school.

Leaders at the school take the views of pupils into account to ensure the curriculum reflects the needs of the school and the local community.

July 2019 17

Rainford High showcases its support for Neurodiversity Rainford High is awash with colourful umbrellas as it celebrates neurodiversity and supports ADHD Foundation’s 2019 Umbrella Project.

The ADHD Foundation is an award-winning, unique and pioneering UK charity, based in Liverpool. The largest ‘user led’ ADHD agency in Europe, the Foundation is credited with influencing policy and provision in the UK for those living with ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions.

This month, the charity celebrates its third annual Umbrella Project with four public art installations that will see hundreds of brightly coloured umbrellas suspended above the streets and public spaces.

The project makes visible what people often do not see because it doesn’t fit with the narrow stereotypes and disabling perceptions of those with cognitive differences.

This year, the innovative campaign is encouraging schools around the region to take part and Rainford High is proudly showing its support by suspending over 20 umbrellas in the school entrance.

The display will look to encourage conversations about the condition and celebrate the gifts, abilities and employability of those who are neurodiverse.

Ian Young, principal of Rainford High, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this exciting project with the ADHD Foundation. It’s really important that we start talking more about neurodiversity and highlight the intelligence, success and employability of those school children who have special educational

needs.

“As a school, we are committed to ensuing vulnerable students have a voice and this project ensures they are heard by all students and staff.”

In the past, the charity has described Rainford High as having “a unique culture that champions neurodiversity and inclusion.”

Ian Young said: “Our school delivers a different and effective approach to support children who are neurodiverse. Inclusivity and diversity is at heart of the school and we’re proud to demonstrate this.”

Knowsley Community College launches new Fazakerley bus route Knowsley Community College is excited to announce the launch of a new free bus service, aiming to improve connectivity and make the college more accessible for students who live in the Fazakerley area.

The new route will cover areas including Maghull, Kirkby and Fazakerley, supporting students living in these areas, with their commute to College.

The exclusive, free route will be exclusively for students who attend Knowsley Community College and St Helens College and will complement the existing support already in place which includes a free Arriva bus pass for the full academic year which can be used during term time, including evenings.

Julia Callaghan, Director of Marketing, Sales and Customer Relations, said, “We undertook research with existing students and new applicants to identify where these routes would be most appropriately placed. We care

about our students and their travel times and ease of access is important to us, so the introduction of this new route should alleviate any barriers that are currently faced.”

Julia added, “Our students are discerning customers who take careful consideration when choosing their further education provider. By removing travel barriers, we are enabling students to have more choice when it comes to their next steps after school. Thus, widening the pool of sixth form and college providers that they can choose from.”

The new service has been launched in partnership with family run firm, Hatton’s Travel. The new route launches in September 2019 with bus timetable information available at upcoming enrolment events throughout August.

For more information on the free bus service, or applying to become a student at Knowsley Community College, please visit www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk

CONSIDER YOUR FUTURE AT RAINFORD SIXTH FORM

OPEN EVENING OPEN TO 2019 & 2020 ADMISSIONS

11 JULY 2019 5-7PM

Rainford High’s dedicated post 16 provision will be opening its doors to prospective students, giving them a glimpse into what life is like at this highly-coveted sixth form. The evening will allow visitors to see for themselves everything this Sixth Form has to offer, as well as the opportunity to speak with current students and staff members.

Prepare yourself for the rest of your life

Higher Lane, Rainford, St Helens, Merseyside WA11 8NY 01744 885914 www.rainfordsixthform.org.uk @Rainford6thForm

18 July 2019

July 2019 19

Walkers have splashing time in the Moonlight for Hospice Over 550 people had a ‘splashing time’ as they took to the streets of Knowsley and St Helens as part of Willowbrook Hospice’s annual Moonlight Colour Walk .

Many of those taking part in the walk have had first-hand experience of the hospice, with either friends or family having being cared for at one time or another.

Just before the start of the walk, the sky turned into a sea of pink as people remembered and celebrated the lives of their loved one with a special balloon release.

Following a countdown from Willowbrook’s fundraising manager, Nichola Saunders, the walkers were off with many choosing to take part in a special colour splash before taking on either the original 10 km route or a ‘mini moonlight’ of 6km.

On their return, every walker received a wellearned Moonlight Walk medal and refreshments.

Nichola Saunders said: “This year’s Moonlight Walk was amazing and it was lovely to see so many people coming together to remember their loved ones and to help raise much needed funds to ensure that we as a hospice can continue to care and support our patients and their families.

“On behalf of Willowbrook I’d like to thank every single person who was involved with the event, whether as a walker, a steward or a volunteer!

“We’d also like to thank everyone who supported the event either through sponsorship, donations of refreshments for our walkers or by providing the pre-walk entertainment.

“We’re so lucky at Willowbrook to have such fantastic support from our local community – we couldn’t do what we do without their help. ”

20 July 2019

CHALLENGE LIFESTYLE

Five must-try garden activities ith school holidays on the horizon, most of us are keen to get out in our gardens and make the most of the sunshine. To help you make the most of your outdoor living space this summer we share five of their must-try summer activities for the whole family to enjoy.

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Alfresco dining Why stay indoors for dinner when the weather outside is gorgeous? Whether it be a barbecue or simply taking the dinner set outside, eating in the fresh air is a great way to enjoy the sunshine. With much of our lives spent indoors, spending time outside with loved ones is a great way to reduce stress levels and ease muscle

tension. Being outdoors can even boost your mood and benefit concentration. If you’re growing your own herbs, fruit or vegetables, get the kids involved picking the ingredients for lunch or dinner!

Bee friendly…

In summer, colonies of bees will be building up their strength by collecting nectar and pollen. As bees are a crucial part of our garden’s ecosystem, we should all try to take better care of our buzzing friends. Making your garden bee-friendly by allowing wildflowers, such as daisies and dandelions to grow, will provide an easy source of nectar for the bees throughout the summer.

By leaving a small area of uncultivated soil and wood in borders or hedge bases, you can help bees make safe and suitable colonies by keeping the colony out of busy areas of the garden.

Grow your food Growing and preparing your own fruit and vegetables is always a satisfying thing to do. Fun for the whole family, fruits and vegetables from your own garden are higher in nutrients and have none of the pesticides used in commercial farming, making home-grown produce both healthier and tastier. Frequent gardening is also a great way to get loads of exercise, whilst taking responsibility for your garden and food.

Game on!

Outdoor games are a great way to bring the whole family together for some fun. How about playing giant Jenga, a game of badminton or even football? Anything goes, so pick your favourite!

Before you start, make sure you remove any loose objects or debris, and check that your lawn is all prepared by getting the grass nice and short for games and running around.

One of the best ways to achieve a thick and healthy lawn ready for fun and games is to cut little and often.

The summer can be a stressful time for plants and by regular cuts taking of no more than a third of the grass blade you ensure optimum health.

Garden cinema With the warm weather carrying on long into the evenings, why not set up an outdoor cinema to enjoy your favourite films? All you’ll need is a projector and a blank surface, whether it be a wall, or a white sheet hung from a tree, you’ll be going in no time. Invite your friends’ round, get some popcorn and get lost in your own open-air cinema.

CHALLENGE WORDSEARCH

HEALTHY EATING

ALFRESCO

DECKCHAIR

HOSEPIPE

SUMMER

BARBECUE

FLOWERS

LEMONADE

SUNSHINE

Easy ways to eat healthily

BEACH

GARDEN

PICNIC

WASPS

Roasted Spiralised Carrot & Feta Salad

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A taste of summer for those lazy days Ingredients 2 Courgettes, washed and trimmed 2 Carrots, trimmed and peeled 2 tbsp Olive Oil 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Freshly ground Salt and Black Pepper 100g Feta Cheese, crumbled 50g Walnut Pieces 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped Method Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/425°/Gas Mark 6.

Spiralise the courgettes and carrots using the ‘thin spiral cone’. Place in a bowl and add the oil, vinegar and seasoning and mix well.

Spread the vegetables onto a large (or 2 smaller) baking tray and roast for around 7-8 minutes, stirring a couple of times. Meanwhile, toast the walnuts in a dry pan, stirring frequently to prevent burning, then tip onto a

plate to cool. Remove the vegetables from the oven and place in a serving bowl.

Sprinkle over the cheese, walnuts and finally the parsley. Delicious served as a light lunch or as an accompaniment to grilled meats or fish.

July 2019 21

Student providing legal support in Windrush fight A law and psychology student from Knowsley is spending her summer helping people affected by the Windrush scandal.

Tonika Stephenson, from Stockbridge Village is part of the volunteer legal team tasked with working on the project at a Manchester-based solicitors, who are holding free law clinics with the objectives of helping people seeking citizenship and compensation from the government.

Windrush concerns the injustices suffered by immigrants who came over to the UK to help rebuild England after the Second World War. Many of those people, along with their descendants and the descendants of others, still suffer because they do not have, or did not apply for British citizenship.

The 32-year-old, who previously attended Knowsley College, will see her transport and parking costs covered by the Student Opportunity Fund – a key factor in her acceptance of volunteering on the project.

Her roles include interviewing members of the public under the Windrush Scheme as well as dealing with other legal problem queries, and gaining experience working in live legal environments while also developing her skills and CV. Tonika believes first-hand experience has already been a positive in her learning and will stand her in good stead in whatever career direction she chooses to pursue.

“The placement has been an amazing opportunity. There have been many eye-opening moments, a few being the

recognition of the plight people are in, what they have been through and the depth of the support needed.

“My course is going very well. I am hoping to be gainfully employed in a legal capacity after my degree. I do not have a dream job or role, but I do desire to help people in whatever capacity I can.”

Tonika’s work is also expected to benefit her fellow students, by advocating the benefits of seeking placements and the University’s support, and what can be achieved through fulfilling the placement.

“I’d be happy to chat to students about the fund and encourage them to apply at scholarships events organised by the university, the law department and the Law Society.”

Her personal tutor, senior lecturer in law Robert Collinson, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Tonika to develop the skills needed for a successful career in legal practice and thereby to significantly enhance her future employability.”

Visit hospice’s bloomin’ marvellous gardens this July

On Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 July, Willowbrook Hospice in Prescot will once again be opening its beautiful award winning gardens to the public as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS).

The Willowbrook gardens are one of only ten hospice gardens chosen to participate in the NGS. The gardens, which are spread over five acres, include three Japanese gardens, water features, a kitchen garden and formal gardens. This year, visitors will also be able to enjoy the new ‘Giving border’ which was planted in hues of blue thanks to donations of plants from members of the local community.

Nichola Saunders, head of fundraising at Willowbrook said: “We’re really proud of our beautiful gardens which have been designed to provide patients and visitors with a picturesque and tranquil place to unwind and relax.

“Last year the gardens attracted over 500 visitors and we’re thrilled that we’re able to open them up to the public again.

“Our gardeners and all our garden volunteers work so hard to maintain and develop the gardens and it’s wonderful that we’re able to invite people who wouldn’t normally see them to come along and enjoy them.”

The hospice gardens will be open 11am-4pm and entry is £3 for adults and free for children with profits going towards the NGS fund for nursing and caring charities.

For more information about the National Garden Scheme at Willowbrook Hospice visit https://www.ngs.org.uk/find-agarden/garden/34063/

Officers recover suspected stolen puppy from address in Kirkby

PRESCOT St Pauls Parish Church, Bryer Road 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lisa 07720 979915 CROXTETH Porchfield Community Centre Off Storrington Avenue 5.30pm Shenley 07803 524716 Thursday CROXTETH PARK St Cuthberts Church (portacabin) Langley Close, Croxteth Park 5.00pm & 7.00pm Dawn Tel: 07732 845118 NETHERLEY Netherley Youth & Community Initiative St Gregorys Church Damson Road, Netherley L27 8XR 6.30pm Helen 07779 266870

Do you recognise this puppy, who was recovered from an address in Kirkby on Tuesday, 25 June.

At around 10.35am, officers were called to Alvanley Road following reports of a disturbance at an address on the street.

On arrival, officers forced entry and located a number of suspected stolen bikes and a puppy. No one was present at the address.

Due to the age of the puppy and the absence of a mother, the puppy is at this stage believed to be stolen.

The puppy was taken to a vets but was found to have no microchip.

Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and officers are asking anyone who recognises the puppy, and can prove ownership and confirm a distinguishing feature on the puppy is asked to contact police via @MerPolCC, or by calling 101 quoting ref.

19100334535.

Friday Monday CROXTETH Porchfield Community Centre Porchfield Close, Off Storrington Avenue 5PM Julie on 07779 538790 HUYTON The Old School House St. John’s Road, Huyton L36 0UT 5.30pm Zara 07854 721185

NETHERLEY Woodlands Community Centre Wood Lane 9.30am, 4.30pm & 6.30pm Helen 07779 266870

DOVECOT The Holy Spirit Community Hall East Prescot Road L14 2EH 7.30am and 9.30am Julie 07779 538790

LIVERPOOL The Liverpool public house 14 James Street (Next door to James Street Station) 12pm Linda 0151 256 1681

NORRIS GREEN St Christophers Church Hall Lorenzo Drive 7.45am & 9.30am Debbie 07774 699694

Wednesday Tuesday ECCLESTON St James Church Hall St Helens Road 9.00am, 11.00am, 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lynn 07739 167051

DOVECOT The Holy Spirit Community Hall East Prescot Road L14 2EH 9.30am 4pm and 6pm Julie 07779 538790

Saturday

PRESCOT Prescot Town Hall Warrington Road 8.00am & 10.00am Lynn 07739 167051 KNOWSLEY VILLAGE Holiday Inn express Ribblers Lane, Knowsley L34 9HA 8am, 10am Zara 07854 721185 BELLE VALE Gateacre Comprehensive School Hedgefield Road, Belle Vale 9.00am Graeme 07775 918576

22 July 2019

CHALLENGE HEALTH Healthy Knowsley Local NHS trust services praised for being ‘rare jewels’ A new report has recognised infant bonding services at North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, as being ‘rare jewels’.

Knowsley’s Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS), is amongst the few areas in the UK to have teams doing such valuable work.

A wealth of evidence shows that serious, persistent difficulties in early relationships – if not addressed - can have effects on babies’ brain development, and lifelong physical and mental health.

The charity Parent Infant Partnership UK has found that there are only 27 specialised parent-infant relationship teams in the whole of the UK, meaning that most babies live in an area where there is no support.

The national award winning Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) in Knowsley, helps parents and infants to build the best possible bond and attachment relationship.

Dr Lisa Marsland, consultant clinical psychologist and strategic service lead for the service, was in Parliament to support the release of the report alongside Parent Infant Partnership UK. The full report was launched in Parliament in June with Minister Jackie Doyle-Price and MPs Tim Loughton MP (Con), and Paul Williams MP (Lab), along with calls for specialised parent-infant relationship teams available to support all families who need them by 2030.

Dr Karen Bateson, head of clinical strategy and development at Parent Infant Partnership UK said: “It is now widely

recognised that what happens in the first 1001 days of a child’s life, from conception to age two, is key to enabling that child to thrive.

“During this period of rapid brain growth, babies are shaped by their environment, particularly their relationship with their parents.

“Healthy brain development depends upon babies having secure, responsive relationships with their parents or caregivers.”

For more information on the Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) in Knowsley, visit: www.nwbh.nhs.uk/babsknowsley

HEALTHY KNOWSLEY Cllr Sean Donnelly, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care With the warmer weather and the school holidays approaching, we are more likely to be out and about more over the coming weeks.

Whether you’re at home or abroad, the sun can be dangerous, so follow the sun safety advice for you and your family’s protection.

The best way to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin from sunburn and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer is to use a combination of shade, clothing and sunscreen.

• When the sun is strong, spend time in the shade (particularly between 11am and 3pm).

• Cover up with light, loose fitting clothes, a hat and sunglasses.

• Use a sunscreen with a protection level of at least SPF15 (sun protection factor or UVB - ultraviolet B radiation - protection) and 4 stars UVA - ultraviolet A radiation protection). With both, the higher the rating the better and remember to use it generously and reapply regularly.

Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your sunscreen, noting how long they can be used once opened.

• Fake tans can give you a tanned look - with a lot less damage to your skin, but you’ll still need to use sunscreen.

• It’s recommended to drink 1.5 litres (about eight large cups or glasses) of non-alcoholic fluids a day to keep you hydrated, especially in the warmer weather!

Remember babies, children and very fair skinned people should avoid direct sunlight as their skin is far more sensitive.

I hope you have a happy and fun-filled summer and there’ll be lots of health and wellbeing advice and top tips at this year’s Knowsley Feelgood Festival at Court Hey Park on Saturday 3 August from 11am until 5pm.

See you there!

The BABS team

Call for volunteers Woodlands Hospice who have five charity shops in the area, including Kirkby are looking for volunteers.

Manager Ruth Garrett said: “We are currently in need of volunteers for our new Kirkby and also Moss Lane, Orrell Park shops. If you can spare a few hours a week maybe you would like to volunteer to help in one of the shops, please pop in and speak to the manager or call me on 0151 529 8389 or email: ruth.garrett@aintree.nhs.uk “We are always looking for good quality donated items to sell. Maybe you have a few clothes you no longer wear taking up space in your wardrobe you could donate?

“You can now also increase the value of your donated goods by making a Gift Aid declaration when you drop your items in at the shop”.

July 2019 23

Dementia ward unveils new outdoor courtyard for patients A ward for adults with dementia in Knowsley unveiled its newlyrefurbished courtyard and outdoor space for patients at a recent opening event.

The £80,000 improvement work involved a complete redesign of the existing outdoor space on Rydal Ward at Knowsley Resource and Recovery Centre, which is based at Whiston Hospital. This now provides a safe, open space for patients to access fresh air and daylight.

The new courtyard has been specially designed to meet the needs of older people with dementia.

Previously, the pavement areas were surrounded by a kerb next to low flower beds which presented a health and safety risk for patients and meant the courtyard was unusable.

This had been highlighted during a recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection as an area which needed addressing to enable patients to safely access the outdoor space.

By addressing the recommendations made by the CQC, the Trust has demonstrated its commitment to supporting people to age well, in line with the national focus on aging well included within the NHS Long Term Plan.

Improving the lives and care of older people is also a priority for all health and social care providers in Knowsley.

As part of the refurbishment, all paving has now been removed and replaced with soft, granular flooring to create an even surface and a safety handrail has been installed around the perimeter of the courtyard.

Other features include a yellow brick road to aid orientation around the garden, a sand pit for promoting the recall of reminiscing, areas to promote physical activity such as skittles and several large planters which will be used for therapeutic activities on the ward so patients can grow their own plants and produce.

The new-look courtyard was unveiled at the opening event by a host of special guests, including the Spectrum Community Choir, Mayor of Halton,

Councillor Margaret Horabin, Mayor of Prescot, Councillor Pat Cook, former Everton footballer Graham Stuart and rugby players from Widnes Vikings.

Lisa Murray, ward manager on Rydal Ward, said: “Previously, all patients needed to be accompanied on a one-toone basis when using the garden due to the potential risk of someone having a fall. However, the new courtyard now provides a safe environment for therapeutic activities and social events.

“We were also delighted to have the Spectrum Community Choir perform at our opening event, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.

“We recognise the importance of music and the ability it has to reduce the symptoms of dementia, such as agitation, apathy and anxiety.”

Simon Barber, chief executive at North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are delighted with this new and improved outdoor space. In addition to the greater independence and privacy that patients will benefit from, it’s also a space they can enjoy with their families and carers.”

From left to right: Graham Stuart (former Everton football player), Councillor Pat Cook (Mayor of Prescot), Lisa Murray (Rydal Ward manager), Carl Horabin (Consort of Halton), Councillor Margaret Horabin (Mayor of Halton), Helen Bellairs (chairman of North West Boroughs), John Heritage (chief operating officer), Lee McMenamy (director of operations), Olly Ashall (Widnes Vikings), Lloyd Roby (Widnes Vikings).

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24 July 2019

KNOWSLEY ARK

Bringing history alive

One small step…

July 20 1969 was a truly momentous day in history: three men - Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins – had piloted Apollo 11 to the moon and two of them – Armstrong and Aldrin – had landed the lunar module on the moon’s surface at Mare Tranquillitatis ‘the Sea of Tranquility’, its safe landing announced to mission control and the waiting world by mission commander Armstrong with the words, “Houston, Tranquillity Base here. The Eagle has landed”.

The following day, July 21st 1969, saw Neil Armstrong take the first steps on the lunar surface, when he delivered the immortal line: “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”.

It was. Who can forget being enthralled by the grainy black and white television images of these heroes as they explored the barren wastes of the moon, pictures beaming almost impossibly from space into our homes, schools and workplaces?

Everyone stopped and watched, or so it seemed…

Back on earth, the local newspapers were busy reporting the day-to-day goings on of the communities they served.

Delving into the Archive to look back at the microfilmed Kirkby Reporter, we can see that in the run up to the Apollo mission, the edition of Thursday 15 May 1969 ran a feature which looked at a local school’s contribution to the Merseyside Science Fair to be held in June 1969 at Liverpool University, under the headline ‘In the name of science’.

All of the 335 pupils from St Michael’s Junior School, Westvale, were involved in carrying out detailed scientific research for inclusion in the Fair.

For example, one group studied the comparative heights and weights of girls and boys; pupils followed and plotted the progress of their teacher’s new born baby and one boy created a questionnaire to find out about blood, interviewing a local GP before putting the questionnaire together.

Even the school budgie and Smokey the rabbit got involved – they had their pulses taken and recorded by pupils.

The weeks before the moon landing were an exciting time in Kirkby: the first Kirkby Show was held over two days on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 July and the Reporter was there to capture the fun in the giant marquee, declaring ‘It’s a Hit!’ in its headline from the 17 July edition.

14,000 visitors attended the show – reportedly a fifth of Kirkby’s population.

Whilst the front page headlines of the 24 July featured the visit by Princess Margaret to Fazakerley Hospital’s new £740,000 maternity unit (she had been unable to attend the official opening in May due to an attack of gastro-enteritis), the moon landing inspired a number of witty advertisements from local companies.

Don’t worry that you can’t book a seat on Apollo 11 – Phythians Travel Agency of St Helens will put your name down in their Lunar Flight Register for early booking once moon flights are available (we’re still waiting…).

In a tongue in cheek feature article, Budget Rent-A-Car International, a subsidiary of Trans International Airlines, appears to have beaten them to it, offering commercial charter flights on the TIA ‘949’ Super Spacecraft, luxury accommodation at the Hotel Luna in the Sea of Showers and, of course, lunar vehicle hire.

The space race certainly inspired the imagination!

“

It was a funny shape and a beam was coming from it at intervals

beam of light lit up the sky close to Kirkby Fire Station at around 10:30pm.

One witness stated that ‘…it was a funny shape and a beam was coming from it at intervals’. The featureless object was hovering about 100 feet from the ground and circled the area for about an hour.

The front page headline on Friday 6 January 1978 declared ‘Serious Sighting Shocker’.

Four young men had been driving along Old Cut Lane in Simonswood when they were confronted by an eight foot tall monster. The creature, described as wearing ‘an asbestos-like spacesuit’, blocked the road and approached the vehicle, at which point the men fled the scene, calling the police from a nearby farm house.

The police took the sighting very seriously and emphasised that there was

no indication that the men were drunk or that they were the victims of a prank.

However, this didn’t deter the Reporter’s journalists from doing their own investigation – the following week’s edition featured a Reporter staff journalist dressed as an alien and parading around the town to get reactions from the local residents!

Whether sightings of other-worldly crafts and beings have been prompted by the excitement of the space race of the 1960s and 1970s, or even the impact of Hollywood blockbusters like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and the Star Wars franchise, we continue to look to the stars.

This 50th anniversary of the moon landing reminds us of the incredible achievements made in space travel and exploration in the 20 and 21 centuries, and of how much there is still to learn.

”

The Kirkby Reporter is also the source for some interesting accounts of sightings of Unidentified Flying Objects and alien beings.

In December 1970, the Reporter put out a call for anyone who had witnessed several incidents involving UFOs flying over Kirkby and the industrial estate that had been reported back in 1964.

A man who was working as a security guard at the time of the phenomena was writing a book about the encounters and wanted to gather people’s evidence.

He had witnessed unidentified objects flying singly and in formation, at times at very high speeds, throughout July and August 1964. The book – UFOs Over Kirkby by John Parkinson – was published in 1972 and contains very detailed accounts of the mysterious craft sighted in the Kirkby area. It is available to view in the Archive.

Other sightings have been captured in the Kirkby Reporter.

As reported on Friday 24 May 1963, two local teenagers were stunned when a

Find out more by visiting http://archives.knowsley.gov.uk/ or you can following the ARK on Twitter @knowsleyarchive

July 2019 25

Outdoors with The Hairy Gardener Hello again What I’ve noticed so far this year (at the time of writing the solstice has just gone) is the absence of swallows and house martins in our area.

This is another sign that something is wrong with us, by this I mean how we humans are taking care of the earth. We can’t have lost all of the swallows who flew back to Africa after nesting and rearing young last summer only to return this year but we have. How is this possible? A global destruction of habitat and food source, possibly.

A few years ago being “green” was the in thing to be, everybody was saving this and saving that, these people in my opinion missed a trick because while they were sending donations to save the endangered species in far off lands the natural world in front of their eyes is disappearing at a far greater rate and I just don’t mean the swallows and house martins.

When did last see a butterfly in your garden, if you do or have, take a photo of it and keep it because butterflies are scarce especially this year. I haven’t seen one in the garden not even a large or small white, nicknamed cabbage whites, in fact we were in Formby a few weeks ago and saw a grand total of two butterflies an orange tip and a speckled wood.

Wasps, I know not everybody’s favourite but they have a job to do in the big scheme of things not a single one.

Leafcutters bees which in previous years would chew perfect semicircles out of our wisteria leaves not a sign as yet, but one species of our native wildlife which has surpassed itself this year is the house sparrow, I believe we’ve had three broods hatch truly remarkable.

NEWS BITES

Free bookmaking and storytelling workshops Explore the art of bookmaking and storytelling while working towards an Arts Award Explore qualification at Huyton Library.

You will learn new skills and develop your imagination writing and creating your very own storybooks! These will be displayed in the library for others to read and enjoy.

These workshops are most suitable for children aged eight to 12 of all abilities.

The sessions take place at Huyton Library from 10.15am to 12.15pm on: • Saturday 7 September • Saturday 14 September • Saturday 28 September • Saturday 5 October • Saturday 12 October To book a place on a session, please call Dan on 0151 443 5617

Remember to garden without the use of chemicals to help preserve the garden wildlife we have got and to be an oasis to passing wildlife.

We’ve had quite a lot of rain in the past month which is good for the plants in the ground but keep an eye on your flowers/veg.growing in pots as rain because of the plants foliage does not water the containers as well as what we think.

Hanging baskets dry out very quickly because of wind and being positioned under the eaves of houses. Don’t forget to feed your container grown plants preferably with a home feed but shop bought is better than none.

Until next time good gardening

Appeal for witnesses to come forward Merseyside Police are appealing for two Good Samaritans to come forward after they came to the aid of a woman who had been assaulted during a domestic incident in Kirkby.

At around 9pm on Friday 14 June 2019 two women who had been travelling in a dark grey Toyota car came to the aid of the woman, who appeared distressed, on Bank Lane. They took the woman to an address on Saxon Way. They are described as white, in their early twenties, and with dark hair. They spoke with Liverpool accents.

A 28-year-old man from Kirkby was arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He has been released on bail.

Detective said: “We believe these two women could have vital information that could assist with our investigation into this incident.

“To be clear, they are not in any trouble – we simply believe that their contact with the victim shortly after she was assaulted means they could be uniquely placed to provide crucial details.”

If you are the women described or know who they might be, you are asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 quoting incident reference 19100311245

Celebrating the Year of the Environment Celebrate the Year of the Environment by joining artist Joe Gibney in creating beautiful felt designs inspired by issues surrounding the environment.

The sessions are ideal for families and all young people, no matter what your ability.

Just drop in at Huyton Library on Saturday 6 July from 10.15am to 12.15pm For more information, please call Dan on 0151 443 5617.

Kirkby Festival This years Kirkby Festival will be held at Millbrook Park Millennium Green on Saturday 6 Jul starting at 12pm People are invited to come along and join the organisers for a fantastic day for all the family.

There will be free arts and crafts workshops, face painting, Jewellery making, circus skills, football skills, sports, music, dance and lots more.

Please note there will be no car parking available on site.

Memories Willowbrook Hospice is inviting local people to join them on a special remembrance sailing on the River Mersey.

The ‘Petals on the Mersey’ sailing will take place on Thursday 11 July at 8pm from Liverpool Pier Head. Petals and a single rose will be given to you as you board.

Tickets for Petals on the Mersey (adults £15 each, children £5) can be reserved by ringing Willowbrook Hospice on 01744 453798.

HUYTON VILLAGE

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26 July 2019

500 people roaring-to-go at Knowsley Safari’s first-ever Tiger Parade 500 people dressed as tigers took part in Knowsley Safari’s first-ever Tiger Parade recently to raise awareness of the plight facing the endangered Amur Tiger and support projects run by the WildCats Conservation Alliance.

Under threat from poaching and deforestation, there are just 500 of these big cats left living wild in the Russian Far East.

The Tiger Parade walked through the safari’s Tiger Trail, a 10,000 square metre natural habitat that’s home to Amur Tiger sisters, Sinda and Bira, where people were able to learn about efforts to stabilise and eventually increase the Amur tiger population.

July 2019 27

HAUNTED MERSEYSIDE with Tom Slemen

NOEL AND LEON ’ve had to change a few names in the following story for legal reasons but beyond that, the account is exactly as it was related to me.

I

In 1970, a 50-year-old Huyton bachelor Noel asked, offering Maurice a cigarette. named Noel Peake was getting rather fed Maurice accepted the cigarette and up with his humdrum life. said: “Straight up, Noel, and I now know For the past twenty years he’d been the how to bring a person’s double from the company director of a cardboard factory Altern Void to our reality, so do you see and did nothing all day but sit in his office what I’m getting at?” on Greenland Street, either signing a wad “Not really,” admitted Noel, lighting his of cheques, poring over reams of invoices own cigarette then Maurice’s. or gazing out the window at the brick wall “I could bring your double into this of the warehouse facing his own grimworld, and he’d look exactly like you and looking premises. because he’s rather dense, I could tell Sometimes there were meetings with him what to do and how to behave. He major shareholders in the firm, but every could run your cardboard factory and one of them was a septuagenarian and you’d be free to do whatever you wanted. each meeting was mind-numbingly “You’ve described the boring routines boring. One lunchtime, Noel got into his Noel, and they be right up the carbon Triumph Herald and drove to a café on copy Noel’s street.”

Islington’s Soho Street where, as chance “No, don’t start messing about with all would have it, he met an old friend from that Black Magic stuff, Maurice”, said his college days - Maurice Pickering - a Noel, looking a little disconcerted, “I’ll just strange individual who studied and have to retire and find a more exciting dabbled in the occult. line of work.”

Noel had always regarded him as an But three days later he received a oddball but being utterly depressed and rambling letter from Maurice Pickering in need of friendship he was so glad to and it was obvious from its wording that see him. Noel told Maurice about his his old friend was mentally unstable. He boring, soulsaid he’d conjured up destroying existence Leon, Noel s name and how he would reversed, and that the “I could bring your give anything to double would take over double into this have a new, exciting his job, thus freeing life. Maurice smiled world, and he’d look him. and said: “I think I Leon would also be exactly like you” may have the moving into Noel’s answer, Noel.” home on Roby Road.

I’d love to hear it If anything went but I bet it involves the supernatural, wrong with Leon, Maurice promised he’d said Noel. Maurice nodded and replied: intervene and send him back to the “Yes it does. I’ve made a lot of progress in Altern Void. the study of the occult since you last saw The handwriting style in the letter then me, and I had a nervous breakdown became erratic and illegible. That because of it five years back. Anyway, you morning, Noel left the office to go to the probably won’t be able to take this in toilet and when he returned he looked no offence but it does require high through the window in his office door intelligence, but there is a sort of and saw his double, seated at the desk. dimension running alongside our one He was dressed exactly the same, but called the Altern Void.” had his hair parted on the left. This really “A dimension next to ours, yes I can frightened Noel and in a confused state take that in, go on” said an intrigued he left the factory and drove about Noel. aimlessly, wondering what to do.

“The Altern Void is where most He called upon his ex-girlfriend Lucy at doppelgangers come from - exact her home on Huskisson Street, and she doubles of people that have been answered the door with a black eye. She documented over the years - they’re asked him why he’d come back and tried close copies of us but they’re a little dim.” to slam the door on him.

“You’re not pulling my leg with all this?”

Noel listened in horror as Lucy claimed

he had battered her the night before.

She refused to believe her exboyfriend’s story about a doppelganger and threatened to call the police.

Noel drove to the Islington café and there was Maurice. “What have you done?” Noel seethed, and his trembling friend said, “He’s a bad one Noel, it’s never happened before. Don’t let him see you or he’ll kill you. I was only trying to help you.”

Noel’s dangerous replica embarked on a string of assaults and even a robbery.

Noel had to flee from his home and he told a priest what had happened but was advised to go and see a doctor.

Then Noel’s double tried to run him

down with his own car, and Noel went into hiding. He lived over a shop on Bold Street and Leon started to empty his bank account. Then one afternoon as Noel was walking up Bold Street, he heard a familiar voice behind him say, “Hello Noel.”

The double seized him and produced a knife, but a policeman on his beat bravely seized the knife. The double ran off and was hit by a lorry. There were screams, and a pool of blood spread out under the vehicle but no body was found perhaps it had returned to the Altern Void... * All Tom Slemen’s books are available from Amazon

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Merseyside Police awarded £3.37m to fight serious violence

Deputy chief constable Serena Kennedy

Merseyside Police has secured £3.37m of government funding to work with partners to tackle violent crime, the region’s Police Commissioner has announced.

The money has been allocated from the Home Secretary’s Serious Violence Fund to establish the region’s first Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), strengthening its response to the increase in incidences of serious violence, including knife crime.

VRUs are designed to bring a wide range of partners, including the police, local authorities, health and education professionals, community leaders and other key stakeholders together to adopt a public health approach to tackling serious violence. The VRU will focus on reducing crime by preventing children and young people from entering into criminal activities in the first place.

The allocation of funding comes just a month after the Police Commissioner, Jane Kennedy, announced her intention to establish a multi-agency partnership, the Violence Reduction Partnership, with the aim of preventing and reducing the incidences of violence, as well as identifying the underlying reasons for the recent increase in serious crime on Merseyside.

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy said: “After lobbying central government for many months about the need for extra funding to tackling serious violence in Merseyside, I am pleased that ministers have listened.

“This award of £3.37m will enable Merseyside Police to work with our partners to establish a Violence Reduction Unit which will help to bolster the response to serious violence and knife crime. The causes of violence are complex and deep-seated. If we are determined to make a lasting change and break the violent hold that some gangs have over some of our neighbourhoods, it is essential that all of those who can help the police embrace this opportunity to do so. We need to look beyond the immediate suppression of violence, important though that is, to societal problems including poverty, mental illhealth, education, issues of addiction and lack of opportunity.

Merseyside Police’s deputy chief constable Serena Kennedy, said: “The £3.37m funding allocated by the Home Office for this year will be used to establish an effective public health approach to reducing violent crime, early intervention and protecting our communities.

“The partnership will be focussed on making the streets of Merseyside safer through sharing professional knowledge and developing enhanced and robust strategies to put offenders on the back foot, whilst at the same time providing support for victims and preventing young people from becoming involved in crime.”

The funding has been provisionally allocated to 18 PCCs in areas that are worst affected by serious violence, and will be spent in partnership with local authority, health and education partners across England and Wales. It comes a month after Merseyside Police was allocated a total of £4.2m in “surge funding” to enable Merseyside to deliver short term operational activities to tackle serious violence, focussing on reducing and reacting to street violence.

One condition the government has set is that the money must all be spent by April 2020.

The £100 million Serious Violence Fund was announced by the government in the March Spring Statement.

PUBLIC NOTICES

28 July 2019 KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (LOWER ROAD, HALEWOOD) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) (EXCEPT FOR ACCESS) ORDER 2019 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to facilitate railway bridge inspection works on Lower Road, Halewood (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate traffic management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council made the above named 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: (i) Lower Road, Halewood – from a point 150m north of its junction with Old Higher Road for a distance of 50m in a northerly direction.

The diversion route for vehicular traffic affected by the road closure on Lower Road will be via Higher Road, Baileys Lane, Lower Road and vice versa. It is anticipated that the works will take place on Sunday 14th July 2019 only.

The Order came into force on Wednesday 26th June 2019 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months.

Exemptions are 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 1st July 2019 Mike Harden Chief Executive

KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (HEADBOLT LANE – ROUGHWOOD DRIVE, KIRKBY) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF PEDESTRIANS) ORDER 2019 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to facilitate housing construction works on the area of land located between Headbolt Lane and Roughwood Drive, Kirkby (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate pedestrian management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council made the above named Order under Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the Order”), The effect of this Order will be to temporarily prohibit pedestrians including pedal cycles from proceeding along:

The diversion route for pedestrian traffic affected by the footpath closure will be via the new temporary footpath as shown in the drawing numbered PT/TM/6410. It is anticipated that the works will take place from Monday 17 June 2019 to Monday 1 July 2020.

The Order came into force on Wednesday 19th June 2019 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months.

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 anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

Dated the 1st July 2019 Mike Harden Chief Executive

• Roby Road Roby south side of the carriageway from a point 15m west of its junction with Wynwood Park to a point 15m east of its junction with Wynwood Park; • Wynwood Park Roby both sides of the carriageway from its junction with Roby Road for a distance of 39m in a south westerly direction; and • Boxwood Close Roby both sides of the carriageway from its junction with Wynwood Park for a distance of 5m in a westerly direction.

The 2015 Order would be amended by the revocation of the Map Tiles specified in Schedule 1 below and by the insertion of the Map Tiles specified in the Schedule 2 below. The proposed Order would come into operation on the date that the Council publishes a notice stating that the Order has been made.

A copy of the proposed Order and Map Tiles, plans showing the parts of the highway and areas affected by the Order and a statement of the Council's reasons for proposing to make the Order may be inspected free of charge during normal office hours Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays and public holidays) at the reception desks at the Council’s One Stop Shop offices at The Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive, Halewood, L26 9UH, The Prescot Centre, Prescot Shopping Centre, Aspinall Street, L34 5GA, Municipal Buildings, Archway Road, Huyton, L36 9YU and The Kirkby Centre, Norwich Way, Kirkby, L32 8XY. Any objections and representations relating to the proposed Order together with the grounds on which they are made, should be sent in writing to Mike Dearing Head of Legal Services, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Legal Services, 2nd Floor, Municipal Building, Archway Road Huyton Merseyside L36 9YU quoting reference (Legal/YH/Wynwood/TRO) before 12th August 2019.

Schedule 1 - Map Tiles revoked from the 2015 Order Ward

Extent of Restriction

Map Tile Number(s)

Map Tile Revision

Roby

As per the drawing numbered PT/TM/6193

Q50

1

Wynwood Park

Roby Road Schedule 2 - Map Tiles inserted into the 2015 Order Road

Ward

Extent of Restriction

Map Tile Number(s)

Map Tile Revision

Roby

As per the drawing numbered PT/TM/6193

Q50

2

Wynwood Park Boxwood Close

Application No: 19/00300/ADV by The Lord Strange Limited at 2 Leyland Street, Prescot, Knowsley - DISPLAY OF 3 NO NONILLUMINATED SIGNS, CONSISTING OF 1 NO. PAINTED MURAL ON SIDE ELEVATION, 1 NO. PROJECTING SIGN AND 1 NO. PAINTED FASCIA SIGN TO FRONT ELEVATION Application No: 19/00343/FUL by Mr Paul Gleeson at 17 Station Road, Roby, Knowsley - ERECTION OF SINGLE STOREY REAR EXTENSION Application No: 19/00318/COU by Lisa Smith at 77A Eccleston Street, Prescot, Knowsley - CHANGE OF USE FROM CLASS USE A1 TO CLASS USE A4 BISTRO/BAR Application No: 19/00288/FUL by Halewood International at Halewood International , Wilson Road, Huyton - ERECTION OF 1,200SQM STORAGE UNIT (USE CLASS B8) Application No: 19/00311/FUL by The Lord Strange at 2 Leyland Street, Prescot, Knowsley - CREATION OF ROOF TERRACE WITH ASSOCIATED BOUNDARY TREATMENTS Application No: 18/00803/FUL by Crosffield Construction and Knowsley Housing Trust at Land At Junction Of Lordens Road/Southdean Road And Ashbury Road, Huyton, Knowsley ERECTION OF 12 NO. DETACHED BUNGALOWS WITH ASSOCIATED VEHICULAR ACCESSES AND LANDSCAPING Application No: 19/00278/FUL by Stanley Enterprise at Knowsley Safari Park , Prescot Bypass, Prescot - DEMOLITION OF EXISTING MULTI-USE BUILDING AND ERECTION OF APPROX. 362 SQ.M MULTI-USE EVENTS BUILDING Members of the public may inspect copies of the application, the plans and other documents submitted with it at One Stop Shop, Municipal Building, Archway Road, Huyton, between 9.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday or view the application online using Public Access at http://www.knowsley.gov.uk/residents/building-andplanning/planning.aspx .

Anyone who wishes to make representations about this application should write to the Council at Regeneration and Economic Development Department, Municipal Buildings, PO Box 26, Archway Road, Huyton, L36 9FB or online via the above website within 21 days of the date of this notice.

Should this application be heard at planning committee and you wish to speak at the meeting the procedure to follow can be found at: https://www.knowsley.gov.uk/residents/building-and-planning/makea-planning-application/speaking-at-planning-committee M Harden Chief Executive 1st July 2019

KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (PEX HILL, CRONTON) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF PEDESTRIANS) ORDER 2019 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to enable maintenance works at the Pex Hill Reservoir in Pex Hill, Cronton, (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate pedestrian management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council proposes than 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 pedestrians including pedal cycles from proceeding along: (i) Pex Hill Footpath, Cronton – The footpath running between Pex Hill access road and Norland’s Lane, for its entire length.

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council (“the Council”) proposes to make the above-named order (“the Order”) under Sections 1, 2, 4, 19, 32, 35, 45, 46, 47 53 and 124 and Part IV of Schedule 9 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (“the 1984 Act”). If the Order comes into force the effect will be to amend the Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council (Prohibition and Restriction of Waiting and Loading and Parking Places) (Civil Enforcement and Consolidation) Order 2015 as amended (“the 2015 Order”) by prohibiting waiting at any time on the following lengths of road

Boxwood Close

Notice is hereby given that applications have been submitted to the Metropolitan Borough of Knowsley.

(i) The existing footpath running from a point coincident with the Headbolt Lane pedestrian footbridge to Roughwood Drive (at a point approximately 86 metres west of Chadwell Road).

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL (PROHIBITION AND RESTRICTION OF WAITING AND LOADING AND PARKING PLACES) (CIVIL ENFORCEMENT AND CONSOLIDATION) ORDER 2015 (AMENDMENT NO 48) (WYNWOOD PARK, BOXWOOD CLOSE AND ROBY ROAD ROBY) ORDER 2019

Road

Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 15(4) OR (5) OR ARTICLE 16 OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION

Roby Road Dated 1st July 2019 Mike Harden

(ii) Pex Hill Footpath, Cronton – The footpath running along the west side of the Pex Hill access road, at a point 252 metres north of its junction with Cronton Road for a distance of 229 metres in a northerly direction.

The diversion route for pedestrian traffic affected by the footpath closure on Pex Hill footpath will be via Norland’s Lane, Cronton Lane, Pex Hill access road and vice versa. It is anticipated that the works will take place from Monday 22nd July 2019 to Tuesday 21st January 2020.

The Order will come into force on Wednesday 17th July 2019 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months.

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 anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

Dated the 1st July 2019 Mike Harden Chief Executive

KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 - SECTION 14(1) (RUPERT ROAD, HUYTON) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF DRIVING) (EXCEPT FOR ACCESS) ORDER 2019 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in order to facilitate sewer repair works on Rupert Road, Huyton (“the Works”) and in order to facilitate traffic management, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council proposes than 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: (i) Rupert Road, Huyton – from its junction with Church Road, in an easterly direction, to a point 10 metres east of its junction with Hawthorn Road.

The main diversion routes for vehicular traffic affected by the road closure on Rupert Road will be via Archway Road, Blue Bell Lane, Liverpool Road, Dovecot Avenue, Pilch Lane and Page Moss Lane and vice versa and; Page Moss Lane, Ashover Avenue, Liverpool Road, Blue Bell Lane and Archway Road and; Archway Road, Bridge Road and Church Road. It is anticipated that the works will take place from Monday 22 July 2019 to Monday 5 August 2019.

The Order will come into force on Wednesday 17th July 2019 and will have a maximum duration of 18 months.

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 1st July 2019 Mike Harden Chief Executive

July 2019 29

CHALLENGE CLASSIFIED

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0151 709 7567 PUBLIC NOTICE KNOWSLEY TOWN COUNCIL Report of the Independent Remuneration Panel (2019) Knowsley Town Council has received a copy of the report of the Independent Remuneration Panel in respect of the payment of Parish Basic Allowance and Chairmanʼs Allowance.

The Panel noted that Town Councils may resolve to pay their members an allowance known as Parish Basic Allowance. The Panel acknowledged that Town Councils may also pay a Chairmanʼs Allowance under existing Regulations.

Conclusion of the Panel No Parish Basic Allowance be payable during the financial year 2019/20.

Reasonable out of pocket expenses for travel and subsistence be reimbursed in respect of duties and meetings covered by the relevant regulations.

Knowsley Town Council having regard to the Panelʼs report on allowances, noted the conclusions of the Panel and RESOLVED to pay members a Basic Membersʼ Allowance of £846 per year and a Chairmanʼs Allowance of £1,000 per year.

Copies of the Panelʼs report are available for inspection by arrangement at: Knowsley Town Council Office, Knowsley Village Hall, School Lane, Knowsley Village, Merseyside L34 9EN. Contact: Heather Weightman – Clerk of the Council on 0151 548 4545

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TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 KNOWSLEY METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL (PROPOSED 40MPH SPEED LIMIT - A57 LIVERPOOL ROAD) ORDER 2019 Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council in exercise of its powers under Section 84 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 proposes to make the above named order, the effect of which will be to restrict the speed limit to 40mph on A57 Liverpool Road from its roundabout junction with the A58 and Huyton Lane to the Borough boundary with Liverpool.

A copy of this notice, together with a map showing the affected areas and a statement of the Council's reasons for proposing to make the Order may be inspected free of charge during normal office hours Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays and public holidays) at the reception desks at the Council’s One Stop Shop offices at The Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive, Halewood, L26 9UH, The Prescot Centre, Prescot Shopping Centre, Aspinall Street, L34 5GA, Municipal Buildings, Archway Road, Huyton, L36 9YU and The Kirkby Centre, Norwich Way, Kirkby, L32 8XY. The proposal notice, plan and a statement of the Council's reasons for proposing to make the Order may also be viewed on the Council’s website; www.knowsley.gov.uk/consultations Any objections and representations relating to the proposed Order together with the grounds on which they are made, should be sent in writing to Mike Dearing Head of Legal Services, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Legal Services, 2nd Floor, Municipal Building, Archway Road Huyton Merseyside L36 9YU quoting reference (Legal/YH/A57Liverpool/TRO) before 12th August 2019.

Dated 1st July 2019 Mike Harden Chief Executive

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30 July 2019

CHALLENGE BUSINESS News from around the region Standard Fuel Oils Ltd identified in London Stock Exchange Knowsley-based Standard Fuel Oils Ltd has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange Group’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain 2019.

The report is a celebration of the UK’s fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses (SMEs), with companies representing over 40 sectors and spanning every country and region across the UK. To be selected for the list, businesses had to demonstrate not only positive revenue growth over the last three years but also outperform their sector peers.

The result is a unique and varied list of the UK’s most dynamic companies. More details on the Companies to Inspire reports and methodology can be found online at www.1000companies.com.

Nick Goodwin, managing director, Standard Fuel Oils Ltd said: “Standard Fuel Oils Ltd are delighted to be recognised as one of 1000 companies to inspire Britain in 2019.

“Our remarkable growth has been driven by the passion and dedication of our staff and their ability to create long lasting relationships with customers and suppliers alike.

“Through continued investment in not only our people, but in each aspect of our business we hope to keep Inspiring Britain for many years to come.”

David Schwimmer, CEO, London Stock Exchange Group, said: “Congratulations to all the companies selected for inclusion in the sixth edition of London Stock Exchange Group’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain report, which identifies the UK’s most dynamic SMEs. “SMEs drive growth, innovation and job creation and are the lifeblood of the British economy.

“We believe that supporting the growth of these businesses is critical to the UK economy and the creation of a society that works for everyone.”

The local supply chain and the Knowsley£ Representatives from Knowsley Council and the Templeman Consultancy recently joined Knowsley Chamber specialist team of advisors from the Knowsley Growth Hub in a ‘one front door’ approach to provide advice, support and guidance to Knowsley based businesses and organisations.

The morning session covered: • How Knowsley Council procures using ‘The CHEST’ • How to check your ‘The CHEST’ Profile • Advice and guidance on being ‘Tender Ready’ (tips and advice on the scoring and recording of social value, the Knowsley£ and local supply chains); • Registering your business with the Knowsley Growth Hub – current profile review and updating preferences so that attendees receive free tender alerts and practical information for your business Knowsley Council spends approximately £90

million per annum in securing goods and services, and works from third parties.

Whilst some of these contracts will be for major highway and lighting repairs, a large number of contracts are open to SMEs. The Council evaluates and records the savings achieved through contracts, and records other factors such as the number of businesses registered on the CHEST (the Council’s e-tendering portal), data on SME spending, number of local businesses bidding for and winning contracts, the impact of keeping the pound local, and how much market engagement there has been in advance of contracts being advertised in the market place.

Lec Medical manufacturing moves to Prescot Lec Medical has announced that it will transfer its UK manufacturing site from Buckley in North Wales, to a purpose-built facility at the main Glen Dimplex Headquarters in Prescot.

Glen Dimplex is already a leading employer in the area and is the home to many well-known consumer brands including Belling, Stoves and Morphy Richards.

The new facility, featuring the latest state of the art technology, will be under the same roof as Lec’s award-winning customer service centre. The official opening took place on Monday 3 June, when Robin van Rozen, CEO of the Consumer Appliances Division at Glen Dimplex and Mark Davison, managing director of Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, cut the ribbon to the new premises.

Mike Butt, managing director at Lec Medical is excited by the move, said: “This is a significant investment in the Lec Medical division by the Glen Dimplex Group, and is in line with the philosophy of putting its employees and its customers at the heart of everything it does.

“This move fulfils our aim to continue to develop industry leading medical refrigeration, which is designed and built in Britain, to help medical professionals in their storage requirements.”

Lec Medical has been a key provider of medical refrigeration for over 70 years, utilising extensive industry knowledge to create innovative and exceptionally highquality appliances.

July 2019 31

Liverpool City challenge sport Region-based Sport from around the region manufacturers Annual event draws a large field among first Four pioneering companies in Liverpool City Region and one in Widnes are among the first in the country to benefit from a government-backed programme designed to boost UK manufacturing productivity and growth.

Abbey Group, based in Knowsley, Fusion Implants, based in Liverpool, Applied Nutrition, based in Knowsley, The Nursery Kitchen in Birkenhead and DT Engineering North West Limited in Widnes, are aiming to transform their businesses by adopting new digital technologies through the £20M Made Smarter Programme.

They are among a cohort of nine North West companies who have successfully applied for Made Smarter matchedfunding, allowing them to explore and adopt leading-edge advanced manufacturing methods such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), 3D-printing and robotics.

Abbey Group, based on the Knowsley Industrial Estate, provides a broad range of engineering solutions to UK industry in the automotive, rail, security, warehousing, energy and structural steel sectors.

It wants to invest in digital technologies - system integration, data acquisition and AI - to introduce real-time machine monitoring on the factory floor to capture live data and report on potential manufacturing efficiencies and costs.

Chris Jones, managing director of Abbey Group, said: “Investing in digital technologies will truly transform our current business, increasing profitability - while remaining highly competitive - and productivity, while allowing us to develop innovative products in-house that will drive growth and sustainability and facilitate further diversification of our product portfolio.”

Applied Nutrition, based in Knowsley, designs and manufactures diet and exercise supplements for athletes.

It wants to speed up production and improve its stock management, freeing up staff to focus on other areas of the business.

Working with Made Smarter it has identified opportunities to innovate using robotics and process control automation, IIoT, Data and Systems Integration, Big Data and Analytics.

Thomas Ryder, managing director, said the new technology will boost productivity, open new markets, upskill the current workforce and create new jobs.

“By working with Made Smarter we have identified an excellent opportunity to improve our manufacturing facility using digital technologies.

“It will enable us to package our products up to eight times faster - vastly increasing our productivity.

“It will also enable us to handle data and stock more effectively and accurately allowing us to monitor our production in real-time.

“The benefits to this are massive as it will allow us to have much more control over production and focus on larger orders, as well as contribute to our local and national economy."

Donna Edwards, director of the Made Smarter North West pilot, said: “I am delighted that the Made Smarter pilot has now supported the first successful SME applications, including Abbey Group, Applied Nutrition, Fusion Implants, The Nursery Kitchen and DT Engineering North West.

“We have found businesses are enthusiastic about the benefits of adopting new digital technology. Often, they need funding support, alongside specialist advice and insight to help them select the right approach for their business.

“This is exactly how Made Smarter can and is helping businesses across the Liverpool City Region.

Bowring Park Golf course holds the prestige title of being the oldest municipal golf course in the country and this year hosted the Merseyside Ladies Municipal Golf Championship Association annual competition in June.

Bowring Park ladies golf club were delighted that they have this opportunity to showcase the course and were aiming to improve on their success of last year.

Bowring Ladies Secretary, Irene McAllister said: “This is an annual event which attracted a large field with over 100 competitors of all ages taking part.

“Although the weather was its best the staff at Bowring worked hard in making sure the

Jan Beacall from Brackenwood Golf Club receives the winners trophy

competition was able to go ahead”.

Bowring Park Ladies Captain presented the prizes to Jan Beacall from Brackenwood Golf Club, overall winner with a score of 74. Runner up was Dot Jones with a score of 76.

Hoylake pipped Bowring Ladies to win the team prize by 0.5 of a point.

The day was a great success and a great showcase for women’s sport.

If any ladies wish to join Bowring Ladies golf club they’d be more than welcome and can find our details at www.bowringladiesgolf.co.uk or phone Bowring Park on 0151 477 8606

The Hoylake Ladies who pipped the Bowring Park Ladies to the trophy

32 July 2019

challenge sport

SPORTS BITES

KIDS RACE

Sport from around the region Lancashire Cup Winners' Cup Final 2019: Formby Ladies 0 Prescot Ladies 2

LADIES CREATE HISTORY

Prescot Ladies continued to create history as they represented Greater Manchester against the South Lancashire cup winners in a winnertakes-all Final held at Crosby.

Prescot were forced into giving a debut to a junior goalkeeper with Foy unable to play. However, after just five minutes an injury meant Heaps had to remove the young keeper and play with eleven outfield players!

Undeterred by this setback Prescot rallied and took the game to their so called more illustrious opponents and dominated for over an hour.

Goals from Sophie Fairhurst and Rachel Wood saw a dominant Prescot Ladies team pick up their fourth trophy of the

season and complete a historic quadruple by winning every domestic honour available this season.

Dave Johnson, from Prescot Ladies said: “A massive thank you to St Helens Sports Development for their support with junior hockey, St Helens Law and Coach Mark Heaps who has overseen the development of the ladies hockey section at Prescot.

“Next year both the men and ladies will be promoted to the Pennine League and will be looking to build on this historic success.

“New players of any abilities and ages welcome.

For more details follow you can follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Knowsley Harriers are organising a 1 mile kids race on Friday 24 August.

The course is a loop around the rangers hut at Halewood Triangle, meet up point is at the Halewood Environment Centre, Okell Drive. Entry is £1 and the race starts at 6.15pm.

Contact: www.knowsley-harriers.com

Cables season ticket prices frozen for next season Prescot Cables has confirmed that the cost of Season Tickets will be unchanged for the 2019-20 season.

Supporters can watch all the action at Volair Park for just £120.00, or treat themselves to a pie and a pint at each match for the great value price of £195.00. There are also concessionary rates available for both season ticket types.

To place an order, simply visit their online store at www.prescotcablesafc.com They are also offering their fantastic fans the opportunity to spread the cost of their season tickets.

If you would like to pay for a season ticket over three instalments to be paid in June, July and August, you can download and complete the form and return it to the club. Payment can be made by BACS, or by passing cash and / or cheques to a club official.

Supporters are also being given the chance to make a voluntary donation to the Players’ Fund at the same time as purchasing a Season Ticket; there are links to do so in the shop and a space on the instalment form for anyone who would like to do so.

The club stated that they are grateful to all of their fans for their backing and any donations received will be ring-fenced in an effort to give the first team the best possible chance in a fiercely competitive division.

Rugby taster sessions West Park Rugby Club are running rugby taster sessions on Sunday 7 and Sunday 14 July for children from reception up to Year 8 (under 13s).

The taster sessions are for boys and girls who would like to try the sport of rugby union.

Children will play in age groups with the focus on skills, games, fitness and most of all fun.

Sessions run from 10.30am to 12 noon and cost £1 per session. Refreshments will be available.

All coaches are DBS checked and either hold or are working towards RFU coaching qualifications.

Sessions take place at West Park RFC on Carmel College fields, Eccleston Hill, Prescot Road, St Helens.

For further information contact Jackie on 07805 095378.

If you have any sports news contact the Sports Desk on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Knowsley Challenge is a free community newspaper to serve the Borough of Knowsley. Circulation 30,000. Editorial Office: Suite 4 Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ. Telephone: 0151 706 7411.

Advertising, Graphic Design and Typesetting by Mersey Mirror, Suite 4 Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ. Telephone: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678