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ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE opening doors . . . broadening minds

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Can YOU help keep us going? n All Together NOW! is a registered charity set up to provide a tip top news service for anyone whose life is affected by disability, long-term health condtions or age. n The charity – the only one of its kind in the UK – relies entirely on support from its sponsors, advertisers, subscriptions and donations.

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Editor: Tom Dowling 0151 230 0307

email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Editorial Support: Gerry Corner IT Support: Ken Almond

Advertising/sponsorship 0151 230 0307

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

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NEXT EDITION Monday 2 June 2025

All Together NOW! is published by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP

Registered Charity No.1106387 Company No. 5096931

HOW YOU CAN HELP KEEP THIS PAPER ALIVE SPRING 2025

PRAISE has been heaped on Sue Weir who has stepped down after 21 years at the helm of healthcare and charitable giant Medicash.

During Sue’s time as chief executive, Medicash was awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool in recognition of its longstanding commitment to charitable giving and contribution to healthcare.

Medicash chair Jonathan Brown said: “It was always going to be a momentous occasion when Sue decided to retire and her unwavering commitment to both the business and the charitable

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Thanks, Sue – we’ll miss you

work supported through the Medicash Foundation have left a permanent mark on the sector.”

Medicash has named Andrew Healy as her successor.

Andrew’s background includes CEO roles in a number of mutual and community-focused financial services businesses and he was awarded an MBE in 2023 for services to the local community.

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

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HE news that a disability champion will be appointed in every area of the Government has been given a cautious welcome.

“However, the Government’s actions on disability in their first five months in office have been extremely poor.

“While the appointment of lead departmental ministers for Lead ministers for disability in disability is welcome, we cannot each government department will assume that this move will lead to be expected to “champion genuine engagement with disability inclusion and Disabled People’s Organisations accessibility”. or real change for disabled Disability Minister Sir Stephen people.”

Timms said the move aims to drive Mr Timms said the lead “real improvements” across the ministers’ role will be to “represent country, with each lead minister encouraged to engage with disabled LEADER: Ellesmere Port and the interests of disabled people, champion disability inclusion and people on a regular basis on all Bromborough MP Justin accessibility within their areas of policy.

Madders, Minister for departments.

But Dan White, policy and Employment Rights, He added: “I’m going to chair campaigns officer at Disability Rights Competitions and Markets regular meetings with them and UK, said how much difference the will encourage them to engage move makes remains to be seen. directly with disabled people and their representative He said: “DR UK has met several times with the organisations, as they take forward their Disability Minister, and we acknowledge his positive departmental priorities. record of championing disabled people’s rights.

Abena Oppong-Asare: Cabinet Office.

Justin Madders: Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets.

Stephanie Peacock: Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth.

Emma Hardy: Minister for Water and Flooding.

Miatta Fahnbulleh: Minister for Energy Consumers.

Catherine McKinnell: Minister for

School Standards.

Simon Lightwood: Minister for Local Transport.

Stephen Kinnock: Minister of State for Care.

Feryal Clark: Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for AI and Digital Government.

Sir Stephen Timms: Minister of State for Social Security and Disability.

Lord Livermore: Financial Secretary to the Treasury.

Diabetes drug cuts heart risk

FOND FAREWELL: Sue Weir, inset Andrew Healey

Mixed reception for ‘inclusive ministers’

The Lead Ministers for Disability

– BACK PAGE

Seema Malhotra: Minister for Migration and Citizenship.

Rushanara Ali: Minister for Homelessness and Democracy.

Alistair Carns: Minister for Veterans and People.

Alex Davies-Jones: Ministry of Justice.

Kirsty McNeill: Office for Scotland.

Fleur Anderson: Office for Northern Ireland.

Dame Nia Griffith: Office for Wales.

Connecting with 250,000 people . . .

A NEW and increasingly widely used diabetes drug may have additional health benefits for older adults.

Researchers looked at data from more than 300,000 patients and found that one type of diabetes drug in particular – SGLT2 inhibitors – were associated with a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes in older people, compared to younger people.

This benefit was in contrast to other findings that showed the same drug was actually less effective in reducing blood sugar levels in older adults, compared with younger adults.

The findings suggest that it may be beneficial, for some groups, to take a broader view of the overall benefits when prescribing medication to patients with type 2 diabetes.ts.

Currently, global estimates indicate that one in five people over 65 live with diabetes, and that almost half of those with type 2 diabetes are over 65.

Older people with diabetes are also more at risk of complications of the disease, including cardiovascular symptoms such as heart disease and strokes.

The study, led by the University of Glasgow, is the largest of its kind to assess the health benefits of diabetes medications in different age groups.

HOW YOU CAN HELP KEEP THIS PAPER ALIVE

www.alltogethernow.org.uk WARMEST congratulations to Lady Anne Dodd on being admitted to Liverpool’s Roll of Citizens of Honour.

Lady Dodd is a trustee of the Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, named after her late husband, the legendary comedian, Sir Ken. The Foundation has made over 50 donations to more than 30 charities, including All Together NOW! Lady Dodd said: “I felt so honoured to receive this award.

“I love Liverpool, my adopted home for over 50 years. During the last six years, as Trustees running the Foundation with Ken’s nephew, John Lewis, I have met so many incredible workers and volunteers in

SPRING 2025

City salutes Lady Anne

a variety of charitable organisations, and particularly Liverpool hospitals.

“I am truly thrilled to bits or as Ken would say, I am completely discomknockerated!”

Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “The Citizen of Honour accolade recognises people who make an exceptional contribution to the city and Anne, Lady Dodd is the perfect embodiment of this.”

– BACK PAGE

HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL

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HONOURS: Lady Anne with a knighted Sir Ken

Josh’s big hit – p17

MOVING: A family’s generous contribution to our battle for survival

VERY warm welcome to our spring issue – and a massive thanks for all the support we’re receiving to keep this vital lifeline alive.

As you will be aware, publishing newspapers is a costly business and balancing the books is challenging – especially for a small charity newspaper like All Together NOW! which is dependent on advertising, grants and donations.

It’s an uphill battle, and the odds may be

stacked against us, but we are determined to continue providng this UNIQUE and much-needed source of news and info for all those affected by disability – and really do appreciate all your help.

Just as we were celebrating the £10,000 donation from the Anne Duchess of Westminster Fund, word reached us that the Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund have agreed to cover the printing costs of our summer edition, out in June, which marks our 20th anniversary.

Generous support has also come from

Council Approved Contractor & Suppliers Covering The Northwest

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old friends and lots of readers – including £150 from an anonymous donor, who picked up the paper at an Asda store.

The message was simple and moving …

All Together NOW! clearly means a lot to this family, as it does for tens of thousands of others across the region.

This is why the fight continues.

TOM DOWLING, editor news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Free Home Demonstrations

SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

New treatment for genetic vision loss

NEW HOPE has been given to thousands people living with Stargardt disease, the most common form of inherited macular degeneration.

Researchers have developed a highly efficient gene editing therapy that could potentially treat the condition.

Dr Bence György, of the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, said: “Our approach achieved remarkably high levels of gene correction. These results far exceed what we believe is necessary to provide clinical benefit to patients.”

The next steps may include further safety studies and preparations for clinical trials.

If successful, this gene editing approach could also offer hope to people with other inherited retinal disorders.

Out of this world

A BLIND astronomer who “hears the stars” will be among the speakers at a major global tech conference.

Dr Wanda Diaz-Merced, based at the European Gravitational Observatory Cascina, Italy, has pioneered the practice of converting space data into sound, allowing her to “hear” celestial objects.

Sessions also include how artificial intelligence and robotics can make life better for those with disabilities.

The Inclusive Design for Sustainability conference takes place at the Glasgow Science Centre, March 17/18.

Showtime for Kidz!

KIDZ to Adultz North, the annual exhibition of goods and services available for disabled children – is coming to the ACC Liverpool on Wednesday, December 3 – International Day of Persons with a Disability.

Other diary dates: n Mar 19-20: Naidex, the UK’s leading disability event, NEC Birmingham. n May 16-17: Motability Scheme Live.

Birmingham NEC n July 13: Disability Awareness Day, Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington Aug 1-2: Harrogate Yorkshire Event Centre n Nov 26-27: The Occupational Therapy Show, NEC Birmingham.

Call Us On:

01744 602602 Also At:

0151 423 3738

Widnes Mobility Supercentre (Largest in Northwest) 62 Victoria Road, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 7RA

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HELP TO WORK UNDER THREAT SPRING 2025

More cash for homes that meet your needs

SOCIAL housing provider Habinteg has welcomed a much needed boost to the Disabled Facilities Grant this financial year.

The Government increase – on top of the £86m announced for the next financial year at the Autumn Budget – takes the annual total to £711m and means thousands of older and disabled people will be able to apply for the financial support needed to live in a home suitable for their needs.

A Habinteg spokesperson said: “The Disabled Facilities Grant is a vital resource. However, as a social landlord with homes across England, we know that councils face great pressure to ensure their total grant allocation meets the needs of disabled and older people in their area.”

“Habinteg urges the Government to make the M4(2) accessible and adaptable standard the baseline for all new homes in England now, as adaptations are considerably cheaper (than for M4(1) homes) and would help the Disabled Facilities Grant pot to go further.”

Christina McGill, Habinteg’s director of social impact, said: “Right now, only 9% of homes offer even the most basic levels of accessibility and there is huge demand for adaptations to homes that don’t meet the needs of people who live in them.” l M4(1) Category 1: Visitable dwellings.

This is the mandatory baseline and offers some basic accessibility features such as wider doors and corridors. l M4(2) Category 2: Accessible and adaptable dwellings. This standard provides enhanced access features and benefits to all households over the lifetime of the home.

Crucial advice at risk

FREE life-changing support for thousands of deaf and disabled people could be lost as advice centres struggle with cash shortages and surging demand.

More than 90% of UK deaf and disabled people’s organisations (DDPOs) report a rise in demand, and two in five say they are struggling to stay afloat financially.

An AdviceUK survey of 247 independent advice-giving organisations paints a bleak picture, with more than a third not confident they have the funds to continue beyond the year.

Liz Bayram, head of AdviceUK, said: “Deaf and disabled people’s organisations provide essential advice, support and advocacy to enable people to live independent and fulfilling lives.

“Yet our research shows these organisations are at breaking point”.

AdviceUK is calling for sustainable funding solutions, including mandated local authority support to secure their future.

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www.alltogethernow.org.uk

HIGH DEMAND: Access to Work scheme has helped many disabled people into work UTS to the flagship Access to Work scheme are in the pipeline – just as the Government is trying to push more disabled people towards the workplace.

Sir Stephen Timms, the social security and disability minister, said the scheme, which contributes to the costs of equipment and support for disabled workers, was unlikely to be sustainable long term.

The scheme needed to be better and more effective, he told MPs. Sir Stephen said demand for support was very high, and ministers were looking at whether employers could do more.

His comments to the Commons work and pensions committee suggest ministers will take measures to cut the number of disabled people eligible for the scheme, and increase obligations on employers to make more adjustments in the workplace.

The warning follows years of rising numbers of recipients of

Support to be cut

Access to Work support – apart from the first year of the pandemic – and mounting backlogs and delays.

Sir Stephen had been responding to concerns about the backlogs and lengthy delays in processing applications raised by disabled Liberal Democrat Steve Darling.

One of his constituents was told she would need to wait six months for support, while another disabled woman was facing the possibility of a job offer being withdrawn because “it had gone on for months with Access to Work failing to process the claim”.

Sir Stephen told him: “The problem is that there has been an enormous surge in applications.

“A number of us will remember

that we used to talk about Access to Work as a kind of ‘best kept secret’ because nobody really knew about it and employers didn’t know about it.

“Well, that seems to have changed in the last two years and there’s been an enormous surge in applications for Access to Work and the department has done its level best to keep up.”

He said DWP had allocated more staff to deal with applications, but the system was still not in good shape.

“I think we’re going to need to make some fairly significant reforms to Access to Work, look again at the whole approach we’re taking, look at whether employers could do more.

“There are legal obligations on employers to make reasonable adjustments. I’m wondering whether there’s more we can do there.

“I think the current style of Access to Work is unlikely to be sustainable in the long term.

“We’ve got to come up with something better and more effective given the current very high level of demand.”

spent on assistance such as equipment, travel and support workers increased from £127m in 2016-17 to £255m in 2023-24, once the inflation was allowed for.

It also increased by 34% in

the last year, from £191m in 2022-23 to £255m in 2023-24, while the number of disabled people receiving Access to Work support increased from 34,800 in 2022-23 to 49,920 in 2023-24, a rise of 43%.

by JOHN PRING

Thousands being made to wait

EMPLOYMENT minister Alison McGovern revealed last October that there were then around 55,000 Access to Work applications.

DWP figures later that month showed the amount

Despair at delay to care reform

THE decision to delay long-term reform of the adult social care system in England has been met with despair by disabled groups.

Health and social care secretary Wes Streeting has instead opted to set up a commission to examine the future of social care, which will take until 2028 to complete.

Opposition parties reacted positively to his call for the commission to build a cross-party consensus, but the overwhelming response from disabled people’s organisations was one of disappointment and frustration.

Fazilet Hadi, head of policy at Disability Rights UK, said Streeting’s announcement was deeply disappointing to millions of disabled people, young and old, who are currently being denied social care or receiving inadequate care and support.

She said the timetable for the commission would mean nothing of significance will happen during this parliament.

Although the first phase of the new commission will report next year, the second phase, with recommendations for longer-term reform, will not be completed until 2028.

Questions

Mr Streeting said the commission would work to build a national consensus around a new national care service able to meet the needs of older and disabled people into the 21st century.

But there were questions as to why he needed a commission when the Fabian Society had already produced a report in 2023 – at his request – on how to introduce a national care service.

Donald O’Neal, an adult social care user and author of The Lack of Care Act 2014, said he despaired to hear “yet another government minister announce yet another report into adult social care”.

He said: “We don’t need more reports, we need action, and now.”

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2025

All Together NOW!

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Workers’ brains – and how the brain works

NEW advice about neurodiversity at work is now available to bosses from workplace expert, Acas.

Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains behave and process information.

Well-known types include ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Lots of neurodivergent people do not see themselves as disabled but will often be considered as having a disability under the Equality Act. Julie Dennis, Acas head of inclusive workplaces, said: “Our new advice has tips on how to raise awareness, be inclusive, sensitive and stay within the law when managing neurodiversity at work.” n The Equality Act gives disabled employees protection against discrimination and the right to reasonable adjustments at work. n www.acas.org.uk/neurodiversity

Assisted dying ‘devalues life’

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SPRING 2025

HE BILL that aims to legalise assisted suicide in England and Wales will have a profound negative impact on how disabled people’s lives are valued by society, MPs have been warned.

Fazilet Hadi, head of policy at Disability Rights UK, told politicians they had a responsibility to consider the impact the legislation would have on disabled people, and on wider society.

Hadi told the cross-party committee of MPs examining the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill: “We are a country that is unequal, that has internalised ableism against disabled people.

“So I do think the bill will have a serious and profound negative impact against the valuing of disabled people’s lives.”

Asked by Labour’s Naz Shah – who is opposed to

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legalisation – about disabled people’s experiences of coercion by members of the health and care professions, she said: “Our experience of the NHS and of the medical profession isn’t wholly positive and we often find that doctors, because they can’t treat or cure us, do devalue our lives.”

She warned of giving doctors the powers to “steer us towards assisted dying as they are not a group who is always on the side of people with disabilities.

“We only have to go back five years to the Covid pandemic to see how disabled lives were devalued… the ‘do not attempt resuscitation’ notices, we all know that disabled people sometimes didn’t receive access to critical care, we all know that people with learning disabilities, young people, were disproportionately dying.”

She concluded by saying the bill should be scrapped, rather than improved.

Help for blind students

A PLEA from a parent resulted in a product set to transform the experience of maths students with visual impairments.

The concerned mum, whose daughter struggled with unsuitable maths sets, challenged a stationery firm to prove its “commitment to empower all children”.

Maped Helix’s designers came up with the Oxford Vision Maths Set – created in conjunction with the Royal National Institute of Blind People. l Price, £3.25. Available at Asda, Amazon, Ryman and WH Smith

Festival marches on

THIS year’s Youth Hostel Association’s Festival of Walking has been secured.

The month-long autumn festival has helped thousands of people discover the mental and physical benefits of walking.

Now, the popular event is set to get more people get active thanks to a share of nearly £4m combined National Lottery and Government funding from Sport England.

Download the free self-guided mapped walking routes: yha.org.uk/festival-ofwalking/self-guided-walks.

Deaf services assessed

THE impact of deaf mediators, interpreters and translation professionals will be the subject of a £600,000 study by the University of Wolverhampton.

REVOLUTION IN HEARING AIDS ON THE WAY: more choice will soon be available on the high street

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HE go-ahead to bring pioneering hearing aids to the UK has been given to businesses around the world.

Help at last for special needs

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LANS to give thousands of pupils with special needs and disabilities (SEND) better chances in mainstream schools have been warmly welcomed.

Nearly £750 million in funding will help schools provide much-needed support and specialist facilities, and make classrooms more accessible for children with SEND. The cash injection from the Government comes after the National Audit Office highlighted the crisis in the SEND system and the struggles faced by parents seeing their children’s needs ignored.

Last year, only 20% of pupils with SEND met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths at Key Stage 2 level. Without the right support, children are falling behind their peers, impacting their future life chances.

Education Minister Bridget Phillipson insists the money will start to pave the way for wide-ranging, long-term Government plans for reform to help more pupils with SEND have their needs met in mainstream schools.

Under pressure

Mel Merritt, from the National Autistic Society, said: “The SEND system has been buckling under pressure for years so this funding is very welcome.”

Professor Karen Guldberg, an autism specialist at the University of Birmingham, and chair of a Neurodivergence Task and Finish Group, said: “For too long, too many green-light to start selling these products to children with additional needs haven’t been getting support patients across the UK. early enough, with dire However, while welcoming the move consequences when issues concerns have also been raised by the escalate. head of deaf charity RNID, Harriet “But my commitment to Oppenheimer. reform – making tangible She said: “Changes need to be change to the SEND system introduced carefully and with the right to improve experiences for regulatory safeguards in place. children and families – could “There are some significant risks to not be clearer, and building a consider in allowing all hearing aids to be system where more children made available without the user having with SEND can attend first received a gold-standard hearing test, a referral mainstream schools is central to an audiologist to consider any underlying health to our plans.” conditions, or having their hearing aids fitted by a trained professional. n MORE than 212,000 “We recommend an urgent review of all the regulations covering hearing aid provision. One area people in England are now waiting for an autism the Government needs to urgently explore is the assessment – three times introduction of a new category of device for more than in July 2021. specifically regulated over-the-counter hearing aids.”

– but deaf charity warns of risks

This includes earphones with both hearing test and hearing aid software functionalities, enabling people take a test at home using an app on their phone.

If the test indicates mild to moderate hearing loss, the person can then switch on the hearing aid function on the same earphones.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Britain can be a powerhouse for medical technology, but only if we rip out pointless regulation that suffocates innovation.

“Groundbreaking new hearing aid devices have the potential to help tens of thousands of people with hearing loss, helping them to live their life to the full.

The action we’re taking will give businesses the

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2025

Help when you need it most United Utilities is calling on its customers to take advantage of FREE support with their water services.

Since launching in 2015, more than 400,000 people across the North West have now registered for United Utilities’ Priority Services scheme.

Steph Smith from the Priority Services team said: “Our Priority Services scheme is free to all our customers who may need a bit of extra support in life. This could be due to age, ill health, disability, PHQWDO KHDOWK SUREOHPV LJQDQFLDO worries or language barriers.

“By registering for our scheme, we can make sure you receive the right support from us during those times ZKHQ ZH PD\ QHHG WR VZLWFK RDŽ the water to repair a leak, or if we need to visit you in your own home.

“Even if you don’t need this support, we all know someone ZKR ZRXOG EHQHLJW IURP WKHVH services - such as a friend, family member or neighbour - so please encourage them to get in touch to register.”

Services include: • A dedicated team on hand to listen and help • Braille, large print, ‘talking’ bills and text relay service • Knock and wait service. If you tell us you have mobility needs and we have to visit your home, we will wait allowing enough time for you to answer the door • Nominate a carer, family member or friend to check your bills and speak to us on your behalf • Additional support if you have a medical need for water.

• Protection from bogus callers with a password protection scheme • Notice of interruptions to your water supply • Translation services • Every two years we’ll check that your details are still correct

Our scheme is designed to support people who: • are blind or partially sighted; • have a chronic (long-term) or serious illness; ç KDYH D FRQGLWLRQ WKDW DDŽHFWV WKHLU development; • have dementia; • rely on dialysis, feeding pumps or automated medication; ç DUH KDYLQJ LJQDQFLDO GLDžFXOWLHV • are deaf or hard of hearing, or have VSHHFK GLDžFXOWLHV • have a mental health condition; • have children aged 5 or under; • are experiencing temporary life changes (including divorce or bereavement); • are recovering after leaving hospital; • have restricted movement making it GLDžFXOW WR DQVZHU WKH GRRU RU • may struggle to communicate because WKHLU LJUVW ODQJXDJH LVQàW (QJOLVK

Scan the QR code to visit our Priority Services webpage, where you can click on ‘Accessibility Help’ to turn on text-to-speech or change the language used on our website.

To register for Priority Services apply online at: unitedutilities.com/priorityservices or call 0345 672 2888 08/24/SD/10466

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All Together NOW!

SPRING 2025

MEDICAL NOTES

Hospitals lead hunt for hidden viruses

ALL patients undergoing routine blood tests in A&E at two Liverpool hospitals will now be screened for blood-borne viruses – unless they choose to opt out.

Screenings at Aintree University Hospital and the Royal Liverpool University Hospital will help identify those living with undiagnosed HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C, supporting early diagnosis and access to life-saving treatment.

While there is no cure for HIV, early diagnosis combined with highly effective treatment allows people to live a normal life span.

Effective treatment also ensures that people cannot pass the virus to others.

Liverpool is among the first UK cities to implement this testing in A&E, following successful pilots in London, Brighton, Birmingham, and Manchester.

The pilots identified nearly 1,000 cases of HIV and over 3,000 cases of Hepatitis B and C in just 18 months.

Professor Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health at Liverpool City Council, said: “Liverpool has a proud history of delivering bold public health interventions, and we are once again at the forefront of innovation with this initiative.”

Waiting lists slashed

THOUSANDS of children and adults in Merseyside and Cheshire are receiving care quicker thanks to its new surgical centre – with more to come next year.

The multi-million pound centre, based at Clatterbridge Hospital, Wirral, treated 3,000 patients in its first year and has continued to help tackle waiting lists.

In that first 12 months the two surgical theatres saw 1,500 urology patients, more than 800 orthopaedic patients, over 350 general surgery cases, 150 gynaecological patients and 140 breast patients.

Research from The Health Foundation shows the impact new surgical centres in England are having by delivering more operations in shorter times, while also improving patient care.

Over 5,000 patients have been treated at the Clatterbridge centre since it opened in November 2022, including with the brand new £2 million Da Vinci Xi robot, enabling more patients to be treated, including those with cancer.

The Cheshire and Merseyside Surgical Centre at Victoria Infirmary in Northwich, on schedule to open in spring 2025, will provide state-of-the-art areas covering ophthalmology, orthopaedics, pain, ear nose and throat, dermatology, and general surgery.

There will also be a treatment room, recovery area and consulting rooms.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SAVE THIS VITAL LIFELINE

Back pain relief GOOD news for those living in Merseyside and Cheshire with back, joint, and muscle problems – you could be treated sooner than you think.

Waiting lists in the two counties are currently among the worst in England for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.

Now as part of the Government’s drive to tackle economic inactivity – where someone is out of work and not looking for work – 17 Integrated Care Boards will share part of a £3.5m package to improve MSK services.

The Government says it is also aiming to get people presently inactive due to MSK issues back into the workplace.

There are 2.8m people economically inactive due to long-term health and MSK is the second largest reason given, behind mental health.

A Government spokesperson said: “With prevention, early detection and treatment, we know that the 17 million people with musculoskeletal issues in England could better manage their conditions, improving their quality of life and enabling them to rejoin the workforce.”

– BACK PAGE

Sickle cell ‘cure’

PEOPLE in England with severe sickle cell disease will be among the first to receive a potential cure.

The National Institute for Health Care Excellence (NICE) approved the use of exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) in the NHS in England.

It will be made available for some people 12 years and over with certain types of severe SCD. Treatment with exa-cel (also called Casgevy and made by Vertex) involves collecting the

person’s stem cells. These are then edited in a lab to produce non-sickling red blood cells.

The edited cells are then infused back into the person.

As exa-cel involves people receiving their own edited cells, they have no risk of their body rejecting them.

NICE heard from a patient expert who described how the distressing lifelong disease had affected them and that treatment with exa-cel had made them “healthier, fitter and stronger than at any point in my life before”.

BEATING ARTHRITIS

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EW hope has been given to millions of people who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis.

Scientists have pinpointed key cells that could be used to predict painful flare-ups – hopefully paving the way for more patients to achieve sustained relief from the condition.

The breakthrough came as researchers analysed tissue from the joints of rheumatoid arthritis patients, using a new technique – known as spatial transcriptomics – which allows for the precise identification of individual cell locations.

Professor Mariola Kurowska-Stolarska, from the University of Glasgow, which led the work, said: “Recent advancements in technology allow us to examine tissue at high resolution, identifying specific cell-to-cell interactions that cause pathology.

“This helps to pinpoint the cause of diseases, such as flare-ups, before they begin.”

The important new findings came from collaboration between the universities of Glasgow, Newcastle, Birmingham and

Breathrough brings hope for millions

Oxford, and the Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS in Rome.

Rome-based Professor Stefano Alivernini said: “We hope this research is the first step to find new ways to help more arthritis patients and optimise their management, letting them stay symptom free and remain in remission after their therapeutic journey.”

The researchers discovered a crucial difference in the behaviour of dendritic cells between people who are likely to experience flare-ups and those who are not.

In particular, in patients at risk of flare-ups, dendritic cells were detected in the blood weeks before the recurrence of the disease, suggesting these cells could be used as biomarkers – or potential treatment targets –

to help keep people in remission.

The latest figures show that around 450,000 adults in the UK have rheumatoid arthritis, while around 1% of the world’s population is affected.

Although treatments have improved, many people experience painful and unpredictable flare-ups. While for some patients their arthritis settles, even after treatment ends 50% of patients experience a flare-up again within weeks or months.

Dr Caroline Aylott, from Versus Arthritis, the organisation paying for the work, said: “By using this new technology, researchers are able to look in more detail than ever before at the cells responsible for inflammation in the joint.

“This means we are closer to using these as markers to predict when painful flare-ups will occur, which will help people to manage their rheumatoid arthritis better.”

Dr Aylott added: “By supporting groundbreaking studies like this, we are advancing towards a future where arthritis is preventable, manageable, and treatable.”

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New treatment ‘saves kids’ hearing’

A

TREATMENT that could stop devastating hearing loss in children undergoing cancer treatment is to be used by the NHS for the first time.

Because children’s ears are still developing, they are susceptible to hearing loss during treatment with cisplatin, a powerful chemotherapy medicine that can cause damage – known as ototoxicity – to the inner ear.

But for the first time a drug that can prevent, or at least reduce, hearing loss has been passed for use by NICE, the body that recommends new treatments for the NHS. Evidence from two clinical trials showed the treatment almost halves the rate of

hearing loss in children receiving cisplatin chemotherapy.

Ralph Holme, from deaf charity RNID, said: “We are thrilled that this groundbreaking drug will be made available.

“We look forward to seeing it being rolled out in hospitals across the country, and we are hopeful that all children who may benefit will soon have access to this vital treatment.”

About 60% of children having cisplatinbased treatment develop irreversible hearing loss, and 283 new cases of ototoxic hearing loss were diagnosed in people under 18 in England between 2022 and 2023.

NICE heard from parents who told them that their children’s speech and language development, functioning at school and at home can all be affected if hearing is impaired through chemotherapy.

The innovative new medicine is set to be made available for children aged from one month to 17 years old.

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: “Hearing loss due to cancer treatment is devastating for children and their families.

“This is the first drug shown to prevent and reduce the impact of hearing loss, and it will have a life-changing effect on the lives of children and young people.”

IMPACT: Experts are calling for measures to reduce the number of head injuries in football and other contact sports

HEADS YOU LOSE

T

HE case for reducing – or removing – heading in professional football has been further strengthened by the work of a top dementia expert.

A study led by neuropathologist Professor Willie Stewart has found no evidence that the high dementia risk among exprofessionals is driven by lifestyle factors that are widely linked to the disease.

When the ex-pros were compared with the general population, they were found to be at similar – or even lower – risk of obesity, high blood pressure and other conditions that can affect brain function in later life.

Death rate

Compare that to Professor Stewart’s previous research that showed that former professional footballers had around a three and a half times higher rate of death due to neurodegenerative disease than the general population.

He went on to reveal that footballers with

Football study backs link to dementia

the longest careers were five times more likely to be diagnosed with dementia.

Taken as a whole, the research points to years of playing contact sports at a professional level as a key factor.

Professor Stewart and his team at the University of Glasgow say that while addressing general health and lifestyle risk factors remains important, there is further scientific reason to support measures aimed at reducing exposure to repetitive head impacts and traumatic brain injury in sport.

He said: “Our data suggests this relationship between higher rates of neurodegenerative disease among former

professional footballers is not driven by those wider general health and lifestyle factors, widely recognised as dementia risk factors.

“As such, while interventions to address general health and lifestyle risk factors should remain recommended, the priority for neurodegenerative disease risk mitigation among contact sports athletes should continue to focus on the reduction, if not removal, of exposure to repetitive head impacts and traumatic brain injury, wherever practical.”

Contact sports

The study, Influence of Health and Lifestyle Factors on Dementia Risk among former Professional Soccer Players, is published in JAMA Network Open.

The work by Professor Stewart and his team was funded by the Football Association and the Professional Footballers Association, the National Institutes of Health and the Medical Research Council.

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Travel takes toll on young

NEARLY two out of three young disabled people are left mentally and physically drained by using public transport, research has found.

Rachael Badger, from the Motability Foundation, said: “Young disabled people are the future of accessible transport.

“It is vital that their needs are understood across the transport sector so they can make the journeys they choose, and so that accessibility can be embedded into future modes of transport.

“With the launch of this report, we hope to see a refreshed focus on young disabled people’s

needs within the transport sector.”

The research revealed: l More than half (63%) of young disabled people feel unsafe using public transport. l Half of LGBTQ+ young disabled people reported feeling vulnerable in crowded spaces on public transport. l Nearly a third of young disabled people deliberately reduce their journeys to save money.

The wide-ranging study – Creating an inclusive future: Addressing accessible transport needs for young disabled people – engaged 1,200 young disabled people.

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‘ROADS MUST BE SAFE FOR SCOOTERS’ M

OBILITY scooter deaths nearly doubled in a year, sparking calls for users to be better protected.

Campaigners say mobility scooter riders urgently need adding to the Highway Code’s list of vulnerable road users – a move that would help keep them safe.

Sixteen mobility scooter users were killed and 80 seriously injured in collisions in 2023, up from nine deaths and 64 serious injuries in 2022.

Since 2022, the Highway Code has contained a Hierarchy of Road Users, which puts greater responsibility on those causing the most harm – like heavy goods vehicles – while prioritising the

safety of pedestrians. But despite their vulnerability, mobility scooter users remain absent from the hierarchy, leaving a critical gap in protections for them.

Meanwhile a study by mobility scooter insurers Surewise has found: l Mobility scooter users are nearly three times more likely to be killed in a road collision than any other road user group. l Over the past decade, casualties involving mobility scooters have increased by an average of 20% annually. l In 2023, 74% of mobility scooter crashes involved one other vehicle.

Professor Duncan Guest, a cognitive psychology expert at Nottingham Trent University, led a two-year study into how

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Vast library aids access

mobility scooter users perceive road hazards.

He said: “The significant rise in fatalities and serious injuries involving mobility scooter users underscores the urgent need for their inclusion in the Highway Code.

“These users face unique challenges navigating pavements and roads, often contending with inadequate infrastructure, poor driver awareness and a lack of clear guidance.” n In the UK, Class 3 mobility scooters are allowed on the roads, which means they include the necessary safety features to navigate road traffic, and have a maximum speed of at least 8mph

A VAST new database of information could make travelling across the UK easier for disabled people.

The National Centre for Accessible Transport (ncat) has created a new Resource Collection, which brings together 366 organisations involved in producing, funding, or commissioning transport initiatives, along with 54 hubs such as research groups, living labs, and funding schemes.

Michael Edwards, from ncat, said: “We invite everyone to contribute to this growing body of knowledge and join us in our mission to create a more accessible future for all.” n resourcecollection@ncat.uk

Vehicles on show

THE MOTABILITY charity is staging three free exhibitions this year – and under a new name.

Previously known as The Big Event and One Big Day, the events are now called Motability Scheme Live and are a great way to see the ever-increasing range of accessible vehicles, powered scooters and wheelchairs. n May 16-17: Birmingham NEC n Aug 1-2: Harrogate Yorkshire Event Centre n Sep 19-20: Northern Ireland: Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn

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BATTLE STATIONS

Deaf workers deserve better on set

A

LMOST all deaf people working in film and television face daily discrimination, says a new damning report.

And industry bosses have been told they must “move from well-meaning words to tangible change”.

The challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing professionals in the industry are the subject of a report by the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity – named after the veteran comic and diversity champion.

One of the participants interviewed for their research spoke about the barriers she has faced in the industry.

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Officials fail to use BSL

ACTION: Deaf staff facing everyday challenges

“Apart from my own work, I have to educate my own interpreters,” she said. “It’s quite draining and exhausting.

“Training has been very hearing-orientated. It was a constant fight, to battle the barriers, simply just to get the access I needed. I have to work triple as hard.”

Erika Jones, head researcher on the study, said: “The voices of deaf people are still being marginalised within the screen industry and as a result potential talent is being lost or unrecognised due to the barriers they face on a daily basis.”

Jones, who works in broadcasting and is a deaf and British Sign Language user,

highlighted that it had taken nearly 60 years for a second UK feature film to be directed by a deaf person – from 1967’s The Return of Dracula by Stephen Pink to Retreat by Ted Evans, due for release in 2025.

“This is not down to a lack of talent, passion or hard work,” insisted Jones.

Recommendations from the report include: l A database of sign language interpreters for the media sector. l More apprenticeships for the deaf and hard of hearing. l Reviews of pay disparity between deaf and hearing workers. l A dedicated BSL television channel.

DEAF and hard of hearing people are also continuing to be overlooked as government departments fail to communicate in British Sign Language.

The Royal National Institute for Deaf People says while there has been progress, “there is still clearly a long way to go” to ensure equal access for the deaf community.

Michael Quinlan, advocacy manager at RNID, said: “While it’s encouraging to see that BSL activity has more than doubled, the fact that five government departments have yet to provide any communications in BSL shows that improvements fall well short of providing an inclusive service for people who are deaf.

“Government communications are vital for people to find out about what support is available and the opportunities there are to feed into policy developments. It is essential that these communications are accessible to everyone, including the deaf community.”

Little steps can help

S

MALL fixes could transform the lives of many people living with multiple sclerosis sufferers who are trapped in their homes.

Lifehouse Liverpool, 0151 709 0121

So says a report from the MS Trust that highlights inaccessible town centres and inadequate public transport.

The charity’s chief Lucy Taylor said: “The moment you have a condition like MS that can make walking difficult, you realise how inaccessible many of our towns are.

“We are committed to raising awareness of what living with MS day to day is like – and the world of difference it makes when support is available.”

In the report – Life Changing: Getting around with MS – 90% of those with MS said uneven pavements, limited dropped kerbs, or cars parked on the pavement made it difficult to move around.

Charlotte said becoming housebound in

her 20s due to inaccessible streets and transport had her questioning the point of living. She said: “Most people take going out for granted but I need to plan it carefully. Sometimes the effort is too much.”

Charlotte, now 30, added: “Small fixes would be a lifeline for thousands like me.”

More than half of those questioned said they would leave their house more often if support was available.

Rebekah, 52, who finds walking a real struggle is now able to get out and about with the help of carers that she pays for out of her Personal Independence Payment.

Claiming the benefit, though, was “overwhelming”.

The MS Trust’s report found 60% of respondents were unaware of the financial support available, and 30% who had looked at applying for support said the forms were too long and too complicated.

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IS

POSSIB GUTSY: Jonny overcame huge challenges to show “disability is not inability”

Champagne on ice for Jonny I

RON-willed stroke survivor Jonny Huntington is celebrating becoming the first ever person with a disability to ski solo – and unsupported – to the South Pole.

“I’m exhausted – but so proud to make it to the Pole and complete an expedition that many thought impossible,” said Jonny, 37, from the southern most point on earth.

Just 52 people have ever successfully skied to the South Pole without support.

Jonny is the first explorer with a disability to do so, covering the 911km of Antarctic

tundra with limited mobility down his lefthand side; a feat he completed in 45 days, 14 hours, 15 minutes.

“It pushed me to my limits – both mentally and physically – but there was no way I was going to give up. I just needed to keep putting one foot in front of the other.

“It just proves that anything is possible with self-belief.

“I will never let my disability define me, and I hope that by reaching the finish line, it shows that no matter what life throws at you – with enough determination everyone can fulfill their potential.”

On average, Jonny skied for 11 hours a day, dragging all his equipment and food in a sled that weighed more than 90kg. He

battled Arctic temperatures as low as -40 C and blistering 24-hour sunlight, huge ice formations called sastrugi and soft snow that made progress challenging.

Jonny added: “Antarctica is a remote, hostile and uninhabitable environment, and some of the conditions were incredibly challenging.

“There were days when I had to finish earlier than planned because of dangerous conditions or pure exhaustion and selfpreservation for the longevity of the expedition, meaning it took longer than I initially planned. I ended the expedition with just 24 hours of rations left.”

Jonny has permanent brain damage and a significant lack of mobility and control down

his left-hand side, following a stroke in 2014.

“I fell a lot over the course of my journey, especially at the start of the expedition while I was getting acclimatised to the conditions, but just had to get back up, dust myself off, and carry on.

“Despite the challenges I faced on the ice, my hope is that by completing the expedition, I have shown that disability does not mean inability.”

Jonny was raising money for four charities – the Invictus Games Foundation, Armed Forces ParaSnowsport Team, Team Forces and The Adaptive Grand Slam Foundation.

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HE most accessible city in Europe has been named in a new study of popular travel destinations.

BLE FIGHT: Debbie campaigns for better access to the UK’s countryside

Debbie blazes trails

D

EBBIE North has spent the last 15 years fighting for better access to the countryside.

Her dedication to the cause has included setting up the charity ‘Access the Dales’, advising the Government, motivational speaking and writing about inclusive travel.

Now she’s just published a new book – North Yorkshire Accessible Walks for Alll – a practical guide aimed at making the region’s stunning landscapes available to everyone, regardless of physical ability.

Debbie’s passion for inclusive walks was sparked by her diagnosis of spinal degeneration and the loss of her husband, also an avid walker.

“My book is not just a guide, it’s an invitation to explore the stunning natural beauty of North Yorkshire,” she says.

“It includes lots of curated accessible walks with descriptions, maps and personal anecdotes.”

Debbie aims to empower everyone to enjoy breathtaking views, stunning countryside and the beauty of nature, all on a scooter.

Mobility company TGA have helped Debbie set up hubs in Malham, Nateby, Tebay and Leyburn, where scooters like the Breeze S4 used by her are free to loan.

TGA managing director Daniel Stone said: “Just like Debbie, we are committed to promoting inclusivity in outdoor activities for everyone with mobility challenges.

“She is an inspiration to us and others. Publishing this book is another huge achievement and we look forward to working with her on whatever challenge comes next.”

al newspaper alive – back page

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Paris was found to be the best option for disabled and older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Factors including flight time from the UK, types of public transport, available hospital beds, accessible tours and attractions, and restaurant accessibility were taken into account in the study by travel insurance provider Good To Go. Paris ranked in the top five cities across all the categories used to measure accessibility, other than public transport and attractions.

Three Italian cities – Milan, Florence and Venice – ranked in the top five destinations, with the cultural centre of Florence taking the top spot for both accessible attractions and accessible restaurants.

The high rankings came despite the fact that both Florence and Venice rank among the bottom cities for public transport.

Despite being one of the closest destinations in terms of flight time, Dublin ranked fifth bottom in the list. The short flight time did not hide the fact that the Irish capital scores poorly for available forms of public transport and number of hospital beds.

At the bottom of the list, the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul scored poorly across most categories. The iconic city does boast some of the best availability in terms of public transport, but ranked last in every other metric.

Stockholm, Warsaw and Madrid make up the rest of the bottom five accessible cities.

Top 10 most accessible destinations

1. Paris 2. Lisbon 3. Milan 4. Florence 5. Venice

6. Athens 7. Amsterdam 8. Prague 9. Munich 10. Berlin

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n ALTRINCHAM . Tel 0161 929 1714 n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 n BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 n BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN. Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217 n BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349427 n BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 n CARLISLE. Tel 01228 631564 n CHESTER. Tel 01244 312626 n CHORLEY. Tel 01257 260 888 n COLWYN BAY. Tel 01492 533822 n ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 01244 312626 n KENDAL. Tel 01539 740 933 n LEIGH, Wigan.

Tel 01942 777 985 n LIVERPOOL. Tel 0151 707 0877 n MANCHESTER Trafford Centre. Tel 0161 747 2684 n MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 n NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 n NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01244 312626 n OSWESTRY. Tel 01691 656882 n PENRITH. Tel 01768 895 438 n PRESTON. Tel 01772 204 667 n RHYL. Tel 01745 350665 n ROCHDALE. Tel 01706 865 986 n RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 710144 n SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 SKELMERSDALE. Tel 01695 550066 n STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 n WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 240064 n WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 WIDNES: 0151 511 8833 n WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 n WINSFORD Tel 01244 312626 n WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 n STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 n STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 n SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 n TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827 709392 n WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781

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Zoe leads arts body into new era

T

HE curtains opened on Merseyside’s international disability arts festival with a new leader full of rage!

International, which since its launch in 2001 has showcased the work of disabled, deaf and neurodivergent artists.

The festival’s theme this year is RAGE – A Quiet Riot! And that’s a theme which sits perfectly with the new boss, who has built a reputation as an international consultant on disability art, architecture and inclusion.

“I believe as disabled people we

THE PLANTS SUITE HONOUR: New chief

Zoe Partington’s appointment as chief executive of DaDa Disability and Deaf Arts is seen as key to giving the organisation a solid platform for the next 10 years.

Her first major project is overseeing DaDaFest

should not let fear hold us back from striking out and being at the centre of decision-making in the cultural sector,” she says.

Her appointment follows confirmation from the Arts Council that DaDa would remain on its funding list until at least 2026.

“As a disabled woman in a leadership role I feel honoured to follow other strong political disabled women from the North.”

Music made of flowers soothes cancer patients

F

OR centuries plants have given us all kinds of health remedies.

Now, they also providing the backing “vocals” to a new musical project aimed at helping people undergoing cancer treatment.

The 45-minute album – linea naturalis – is derived entirely from electrical data from plants with medicinal and healing properties.

Award-winning composer Dr Helen Anahita Wilson, who was treated for breast cancer four years ago, said: “Cancer treatment can be extremely challenging and it can feel as though one is disconnected from nature.

“Hospitals can be such noisy, sterile and unnatural places — often with competing sounds of hospital equipment, no natural light, nor access to plants and green spaces — and so linea naturalis is designed to connect people back to nature by listening to music created from the same plants that their chemotherapy drugs are made from.”

By connecting electrodes to plants

HEAVY PETAL: Helen transforms electrical currents from plants into musical notes involved in chemotherapy and other anticancer treatments, Helen transforms bioelectrical frequencies and fluctuations in micro-electrical currents from each plant into notes and phrases. She then crafts compositions using these plant-derived musical phrases.

Helen added: “Many people are not aware that a lot of chemotherapy drugs are rooted in nature. “I hope this album helps others going through cancer treatment by offering reassuring and calming music specifically

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support.

Tel 01253 472 202.

Textphone 01253 476 450 n CHESHIRE CIL Tel 01606 331853 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420

n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n ACSIL (Amputees and Carers), Tel, 0151 261 1166 n THE BRAIN CHARITY Tel 0151 298 2999 n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154

n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport. 0161 480 7248 n WARRINGTON Disability Partnership. 01925 240064 n WIRRAL WIRED Tel 0151 670 1500 n WEST LANCS HELPLINE Freefone 0800 220676 n ST HELENS DASH Tel 01744 453053

NEED advice finding the right equipment to help you live more independently?

If so, give the friendly people at Adapt & Live a call.

The service is the new name for the helpline run by the Disabled Living charity, which has been operating in Manchester for 125 years.

The team also provides occupational therapy assessments, access audits and accredited training programmes. n 0161 214 4590

designed to be listened to in hospital. I’ve also incorporated recordings of birds and gentle rain. You’ll also hear plant-derived melodies played by a harp, strings, and some beautiful electronic instruments.” n Half of the profits from the album are going to Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centres. It is available on all music streaming platforms. Apple Music will have an exclusive Dolby Atmos Mix.

n Personal Budgets Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0404 Opening hours: 9.30am-1.30pm, Tues and Thurs personalbudgets@ disabilityrightsuk.org n Disabled Students Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0414 Opening hours: 11am-1pm on Tues and Thurs students@disabilityrightsuk.org n Scope’s Disabilty Information and Advice Line (DIAL) Freephone 0808 800 3333

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More cups in sight for hot shot Tony

S

NOOKER is a great way of being more active and making new friends.

Merseyside’s snooker king Tony Southern has being doing just that for 50 years.

Along the way he’s also won more than his fair share of trophies – 24 national championships plus seven World Disabled Billiards & Snooker successes, including back-to-back Belgian Open crowns in 2019-2020.

Next came the UK Disability Championship and most recently the 2024 Champion of Champions crown.

Now, Tony, who has cerebral palsy, has his eyes fixed firmly on three upcoming WDBS tournaments.

The Belgian Open returns to the historic city of Bruges from Mar 21-23.

Then it’s the Hull Open on May 1618, followed by the Champion of Champions in Walsall on June 14. n WDBS, tel 0117 317 8200

Oh gosh!

Josh has a hit on his hands Y

OU wouldn’t blame musician Joshua Henderson for blowing his own trumpet.

Not only is his debut album – Songs of Liverpool for Friends – getting thousands of streams, he also struck a deal with HMV to stock it at their Liverpool store for the whole of Disability History Month.

Josh, 29, who has learning disabilities, recorded his album at the city’s The Cabin studio with the support of disability arts organisation DaDa. Josh first became involved with DaDa more than a decade ago through their Young Ensemble project, which works with young disabled musicians to compose and

VISUAL PROBLEMS n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332 n BARROW Tel 01229 820698 n BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200 n BLACKBURN Tel 0125 554143 n BLACKPOOL: N-Vision Tel 01253 362696 n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507

CARERS’ CENTRES

CUE KING: Tony in action

SUCCESS: Josh’s album has had thousands of streams

perform original music.

Executive producer at DaDa Rachel Rogers said: “It has been a privilege for us to work with Josh and see his development across the last decade.

“He is an incredibly talented and credible artist.”

The singer-songwriter started playing the guitar aged nine, inspired by his musical dad. All the songs on the album have been written and arranged by Josh who performs vocals, electric guitar and piano.

There are contributions from two other Young Ensemble graduates, Mollie Parkinson on bass and Tyler Sherwood on drums.

The track Capital of Culture 08 features a

special performance by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s Georgina Aasgaard.

Speaking of his inspiration for the album, Josh said: “Liverpool is my home city, my favourite place. It’s where I do my art and I like the buildings, they make me calm.

“I like to go down on a sunny day and get on the ferry. I love feeling the breeze and looking over at the city.” n Josh’s album was made with the assistance of a grant from Youth Music, using public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

The Youth Music Next Gen Funds aim to help young creatives across the UK realise their dreams.

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 n CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613 n GUIDE DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555 n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 234 or 0151 708 7055

n LIVERPOOL: Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 298 3222 n MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252 n PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550 n OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019 n ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256 n SIGHTLINE (North West)

Tel 0800 587 2252 n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted.

Tel 0151 652 8877 HEARING ISSUES n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society

Tel 01282 839180 n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre. Tel 0161 273 3415 Genie Networks.

Tel 0161 941 4549.

Text 18001 0161 941 4549 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n SOUTHPORT Centre for the Deaf Tel 01704 537001 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 n BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org n BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 n CUMBRIA Carlisle.

Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith.

Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness.

Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal.

Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE & WARRINGTON Helpline:0300 102 0008 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASHIRE 0345 688 7113 nLIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 9673 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 442 0442 n WARRINGTON (WIRED) Tel 01925 633 492 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 711243 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 705959 / 486923 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 n CONWY Tel 01492 533714 n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 nDOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM CARERS SERVICE

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Here to help with your water bill

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Mar 8: TRASH! Storyhouse, Chester. Four creative workers give a new life to all kind of waste.

Mar 8: Jason Donovan – Doin’ Fine. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 8: Martin Kemp: Back to the 80s DJ Set. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 9: Pride of Ireland. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Mike Denver and Dominic Kirwin.

Mar 9: Beyond the Barricade. Lyceum, Crewe. Music from Les Miserables.

Mar 10: Ben Fogle: Wild. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 11-22: Blood Brothers. Empire, Liverpool.

Mar 11-15: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Palace Theatre, Manchester.

Mar 11-15: Do I Love You? Octagon, Bolton.

Northern Soul for a new generation.

Mar 11-15: Ghost Stories. Playhouse, Liverpool.

Mar 11: Ben Fogle: Wild. Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 11: Pride of Ireland. The Brindley, Runcorn. Mike Denver and Dominic Kirwan.

Mar 11: Sherlock versus Dracula. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 11: Giovanni – The Last Dance. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 12-13: The Smartest Giant in Town.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 12: Giovanni – The Last Dance. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 12: Rave On – The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 13-14: John Bishop – Back At It. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 13: The Fureys. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 13: Jenny Éclair. Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 13: An Evening with Liverpool FC Legends. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Bruce Grobbelaar, Ronnie Whelan, Gary Gillespie, Ray Houghton, Peter Beardsley, John Aldridge, Steve McMahon and more!

Mar 14: Music & Laughter. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Stan Boardman, Ricky Tomlinson, Sean Styles and Gary Murphy Band.

Mar 14-15: There’s a Monster in Your Show, Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 14: Ed Patrick: Catch Your Breath.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 14: Perfectly Frank: A Salute to Frank Sinatra. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 14: Go Your Own Way. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Fleetwood Mac tribute show.

Mar 15-16: Room on the Broom. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 15: Candace Bushnell – True Tales of Sex, Success and Sex in the City. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 15: Bronwen Lewis. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 15: WIFI Wars. Octagon, Bolton.

Mar 15: The Dinosaur That Pooped. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 15: Opera North – The Flying Dutchman.

The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 16: Elkie Brooks – The Long Farewell Tour. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 16: Mozart in Motion: Prodigy. William Aston Hall, Wrexham.

Mar 16: Spice Girls Experience. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 16: Sunday Night at The Grand. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 17: Anton Du Beke at the Musicals. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 17: Saving Tinderella.

SPRING 2025

ZANY JANE

MEN, money and microphones will be fought over in the comic retelling of Jane Austen’s iconic love story – Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of . . . ) The Lowry, Mar 18-22

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 17: Wardruna. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 17: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 18-22: Dear Evan Hansen. Storyhouse, Chester. Musical. Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in.

Mar 18-22: Pig Heart Boy. Playhouse, Liverpool. Is it better to have a pig’s heart that works … than a human heart that doesn’t?

Mar 18-22: Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of …).

The Lowry, Salford. Audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story. Audio described, touch tour, signed, Mar 22.

Mar 18-22: Handbagged. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 18: Anton Du Beke – At The Musicals.

Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 18: An Audience with Liverpool Legends. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. John Barnes leads the attack.

Mar 19: The Story of Guitar Heroes. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 19: Rob Beckett: Giraffe. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 20-21: Ysgol John Bright present Legally Blonde. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 20: The Greatest Barbra Streisand Concert. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Tribute show.

Mar 20: Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged.

Pavilion, Rhyl.

Mar 20: Phil Walker – Happy Bunny.

The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 20: The Story of Guitar Heroes. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 20-21: Driftwood. The Lowry, Salford. An inspiring story about hope, love and belonging.

To advertise, contact . . .

All performances have integrated creative captions.

Mar 21-Apr 19: Red or Dead. Royal Court, Liverpool. Peter Mullan (Ozark, Westworld, Mum) is Bill Shankly in an amazing new show adapted from David Peace’s iconic novel.

Mar 21-22: The King’s Voice. Octagon, Bolton.

Gordon Hendricks as Elvis.

Mar 21: The Funny Mummy.

Storyhouse, Chester. Alyssa Kyria’s one-woman comedy show.

Mar 21: Bat To Hell – A Tribute to Meat Loaf & Jim Steinman. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 21: A Spectacular Night of Queen. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 21: Mothers of the Brides. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Mar 21: Kim Wilde. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 21: Showaddywaddy. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 21: Rave On: The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 21: Gareth Gates: Love Songs from the Movies. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 22: Al Murray: Guv Island. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 22: Sue, Matt & Phil Live! The Reunion Tour. Palace Theatre, Manchester. Quiz night with the sporting legends.

Mar 22: Country Hits Live. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 22: The Drifters. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Mar 22: Jason Donovan. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 22: Dr Rangan Chatterjee: The Thrive Tour. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 22: The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 23: The Repair Shop Live. The Lowry, Salford.

All Together NOW!

19

Mar 23: The Dinosaur That Pooped. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 23: Mike + The Mechanics. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 23: Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 23: Su Pollard – Still Fully Charged. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 24-25: Revision on Tour: Macbeth. Regent Theatre, Stoke.

Mar 24: Manchester City Legends. The Brindley, Runcorn. Paul Dickov, Nicky Weaver and Peter Reid.

Mar 24: Mike + The Mechanics. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 24: An Evening with Kevin Sinfield. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 24: Thank You for the Music. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 25-29: Boys From The Blackstuff.

Empire, Liverpool.

Mar 25-29: Little Women. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Step into the world of sisterhood, courage, ambition, as the March sisters navigate the challenges of the Civil War era, forging unbreakable bonds of love and family.

Mar 25-29: Cruel Intentions. Palace Theatre, Manchester. Smash-hit musical packed with 90s pop classics.

Mar 25-29: SIX The Musical. Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 25: An Evening with Kevin Keegan. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 26-Apr 12: Of Mice and Men. Octagon, Bolton. Audio described Apr 5; signed/captioned Apr 8.

Mar 26-29: Tambo and Bones. Playhouse, Liverpool. Funny and provocative satire.

Mar 26-29: Pig Heart Boy. The Lowry, Salford.

Is it better to have a pig’s heart that works … than a human heart that doesn’t? Cameron is 13, and all he wants is to be normal.

Mar 26: The Music of John Denver. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 26: Revision on Tour: Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde. Regent Theatre, Stoke.

Mar 27-29: Rita, Sue and Bob Too! Pavilion, Rhyl.

Mar 27-29: Death of a Salesman.

Lyceum, Crewe. The final 24 hours of Willy Loman’s life. David Hayman stars.

Mar 27-28: Paddy McGuinness: Nearly There. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 27: Whitney – Queen of the Night. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Tribute show.

Mar 28: David Gray: Past and Present World Tour. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 28: Diana & Lionel. The Brindley, Runcorn. Tribute show.

Mar 29: Ready Steady 60s Show. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 29: The Night Sky Show. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 29: Mahler Symphony No.3. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 29: Milton Jones: Ha!milton. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 30: Fun for Little Ones – A Tribute to Ms Rachel. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 30: Murder She Didn’t Write. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 30: John Cale. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 30: Queen of the Night – A Tribute to Whitney Houston. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 31: David Gray. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

l continued next pages

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20

All Together NOW!

l Continued from p19

SPRING 2025

Apr 1-5: Animal Farm. Playhouse, Liverpool. When the downtrodden animals of Manor Farm overthrow their master and take over, they imagine it is the beginning of a life of equality.

Apr 1-5: Shirley Valentine. Grand, Blackpool. Audio described Apr 5.

Apr 1: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 1: An Audience with Aggers and Tuffers. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 1: Ian Stirling: Relevant.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 2-3: Paul Smith: Pablo.

Regent, Stoke.

Apr 3: Dave Spikey: Life in a Northern Town. The Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 3: Shaun Ryder – Happy Mondays, and Fridays, and Saturdays, and Sundays. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 3: Nathan Carter. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 3: Anton Du Beke at the Musicals. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 4: Aled Jones. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 4: Anton Du Beke at the Musicals. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 4: Oh, What a Night. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 4: Ellen Kent: Madama Butterfly.

Regent, Stoke.

Apr 4: Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 5: Showaddywaddy. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 5: The Story of Swing. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 5: What’s Love Got to do With It? Regent, Stoke. Tina Tina tribute.

Apr 5: Beatles for Sale. The Brindley, Runcorn. Tribute show.

Apr 5: The Music of Zimmer vs Williams. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 5: The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Star. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 5: Lou Sanders: No Kissing in the Bingo Hall. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 6: Carry On! An Audience with Mark and Lard. Storyhouse, Chester. Mark Radcliffe and Marc Riley are back after 20 years.

Apr 6: The Night Shy Show.

Regent, Stoke.

Apr 6: Flowers and Friendship Bracelets – The Ultimate Pop Concert. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 7-12: Hairspray The Musical. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 8-19: War Horse. Empire, Liverpool.

Unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Audio described Apr 11; captioned Apr 15; signed Apr 17.

Apr 8-12: Little Women. The Lowry, Salford.

The enduring journey of the March sisters.

Audio described /touch tour Apr 11; signed Apr 12.

Apr 8-12: The Gruffalo. Playhouse, Liverpool.

Apr 8-12: Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of). Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 8-12: Handbagged: The Iron Lady vs The Crown. Grand, Blackpool.Signed/ audio described Apr 12.

Apr 8: Billy Billingham: Always A Little

BOX OFFICE CONTACTS

BLACKPOOL Grand Theatre: 01253 290190 BOLTON Octagon: 01204 520661 CHESTER Storyhouse: 01244 409 113 CREWE Lyceum: 01270 368 242 LIVERPOOL Empire: 08444 999 999 Everyman & Playhouse: 0151 709 4776 Philharmonic Hall: 0151 709 3789 Royal Court: 0870 787 1866 Unity 0151 709 4988 LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000

MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565 MANCHESTER Opera House: 0870 401 9000 Palace: 0870 401 3000 SALFORD The Lowry: 0843 208 6000 Access line: 0333 320 2838 NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavilion: 0151 666 0000 RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360 ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000 STOKE: Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Singing legend HEARTBREAKER: Dionne Warwick, Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, April 26

Dave at the double

YOU’LL BE SHOUTING IT Further. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 8: Taylormania. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 9-May 17: Mary Poppins. Palace Theatre, Manchester. Australian stars. Audio described Apr 24; signed May1; captioned May 8.

Apr 9: An Evening with Sir Geoff Hurst.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 9: Kate Mosse: Unlocking the Secrets of the Labyrinth. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 10-12: The Moth. The Lowry, Salford.

1994: a chance meeting between two men, John, a black British activist and journalist and Marius, a white South African ex-soldier, sets in motion a chain of events that will change their lives forever. Signed Apr 11.

Apr 10-12: Murder Mystery: First Class Murder – Afternoon Tea. Everyman, Liverpool.

Apr 10: Jasper Carrot. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 11-May 10: A Knight’s Tale the Musical. Opera House, Manchester.

Rip-roaring tale of chivalry, jousting, heroes and villains.

Apr 11: Jon Culshaw: Imposter Syndrome. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 11: Ms Rachel – Fun for Little Ones.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 12-13: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 12-13: Giovanni Pernice: The Last Dance. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr12: Northern Soul is Modern Soul.

Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 13: Omid Djalili: Namaste. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 13: Murder Trail Tonight 111. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 14-17: Peter Pan. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 14: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 15-20: Room on the Broom. The Lowry, Salford. Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat. Relaxed performance Apr 16; signed Apr 17; audio described/touch tour Apr 18.

Apr 15-19: The Girl on the Train. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 15-19: SIX. Regent, Stoke. Musical.

Apr 15: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 16-May 10: The 39 Steps. Octagon, Bolton. Signed/captioned Apr 30; audio described May 3.

Apr 16-19: Peter James’ Picture You Dead.

The Lowry, Salford. DSI Grace investigates a cold case that leads him to the secretive world of fine art. Signed Apr 17; audio described/ touch tour Apr 18.

To advertise, contact . . .

TOP COMIC: Dave Spikey is at The Atkinson, Southport, April 3 and The Lowry,

Apr 16-19: Toxic. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 16-19: Guys and Dolls. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 16: Francis Rossi. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 17-19: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 17: Dave Spikey – Life in a Northern Town. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 17: Richard Herring: Can I Have My Ball Back? Playhouse, Liverpool.

Apr 18: Dracula. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 19-20: Pinocchio. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 19: An Evening with Craig Revel Hopwood. William Aston Hall, Wrexham.

Apr 19: Wickedly Ariana. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

Apr 21: Chris McCausland. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 22-26: Calamity Jane. Empire, Liverpool.

Apr 22: Tommy Blaize. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 22-26: Boys From the Blackstuff. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 22: Chris McCausland. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 22: Carry On! An Audience with Mark & Lard. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2025

POPPIN’ BACK!

CLEAN SWEEP: Aussie stars Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers are set to reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert – Palace, Manchester, Apr 9-May 17

FROM THE ROOFTOPS OWZAT: An Evening with Aggers and Tuffers – Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Apr 1; The Lowry, May 12

Apr 23: Mothers of the Bride. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 23: Bye Bye Baby. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 23: Chris McCausland. William Aston Hall, Wrexham.

Apr 23: The Invisible Man. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 23: John Power – Cast, The Ls’s & ME. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 24: The Sensational Sixties Experience.

Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 24: Craig Revel Horwood. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 24: Turin Brakes: Acoustic. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 24: Chris McCausland: Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 25: The Australian Bee Gees Show. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 25: An Evening with Craig Revel Horwood. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 25: ABBA Forever. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 25: Seven Drunken Nights. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 25: A Night to Remember. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 25: New Jovi – The Ultimate Tribute to

TIME WARP: Jason Donovan is back as Frank-n-Furter – Rocky Horror Show, Palace, Manchester, May 19-31

Bon Jovi. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 25: Lost in Music. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 26-May 17: Takeaway. Everyman, Liverpool. Hyltons Caribbean takeaway is a much-loved restaurant at the heart of Liverpool 8. Built by Carol and her late husband into a bustling hub with a mouth-watering menu, it serves great food with a huge side-order of love. But in a world of delivery apps, street food markets and gourmet curry goat, her family are divided about what their future should hold.

Apr 26-27: A Star is Born. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 26: Nigel Havers: Talking B*; *cks.

Playhouse, Liverpool.

Apr 26: Musical Journeys: From Stage, Screen and Beyond. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 26: The King’s Voice. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Elvis tribute.

Apr 26: The Overtones. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 26: Dionne Warwick. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 26: The Dinosaur that Pooped. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 27: That’ll Be the Day. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Musical.

Apr 27: The Illegal Eagles. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 27: The Overtones – Up Close and Personal. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 28-29: RSC First Encounters – The Tempest. Grand, Blackpool.

Apr 28-29: Gary Barlow. Empire, Liverpool.

Apr 28: An Evening with Paul Merson. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 29: Mike Peters (The Alarm) – Love, Hope, Strength. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 29: Aled Jones. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 29-May 3: Chicago. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Musical.

Apr 29: Kate Rusby: When They All Look Up. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 30: Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Storyhouse, Chester. Stories from his legendary exploits and adventures.

Apr 30: Nikita Kuzmin - Midnight Dancer.

Empire, Liverpool.

Apr 30: Steeleye Span in Concert. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Apr 30: Paradise Found – A Dedication to the Legend of Meat Loaf. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 1-17: Making It! Royal Court, Liverpool. After forty years as a singer, actress and cabaret diva, Bev has seen it all and had nothing. She is backstage at the Kirkby Boilermakers and

. . . reaching people who are digitally excluded . . .

All Together NOW!

21

Shipbuilders social club. This is her return gig.

May 1: Menopause The Musical 2 – Cruising through the Menopause. Empire, Liverpool.

May 1: Julian Clary: A Fistful of Clary. The Lowry, Salford.

May 1: The Johnny Cash Roadshow. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 1: An Intimate Evening with Paul Jones.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 1: Sophie McCartney: One Foot in the Rave. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 2-3: Chris McCausland. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 2: Menopause The Musical 2 – Cruising through the Menopause. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 2: Closure. Lyceum, Crewe. One act comedy following Lydia De La Murrãy on her journey of self-discoveryl.

May 2: The ELO Tribute Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 2: Nikita Kuzmin – Midnight Dancer.

Regent, Stoke.

May 2: A Vision of Elvis. Pavilion, Rhyl. Tribute show.

May 3: Menopause The Musical 2. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 3: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of the Dubliners. Regent, Stoke.

May 3: ABBA by Candlelight. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 3: The Mersey Beatles. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 3: A Vision of Elvis. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 3: Irish Annie’s. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 3: Killer Couples. Grand, Blackpool.

May 4: Daniel O’Donnell. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 4: Craig Revel Horwood: Revelations – Sings Boys Don’t Sing. Grand, Blackpool.

May 5-10: The Rocky Horror Show. Regent, Stoke.

May 5: The Simon & Garfunkel Story. Grand, Blackpool.

May 6-Jun 7: Hamilton. Empire, Liverpool.

Musical telling the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Signed May 27; captioned May 28; audio described May 29.

May 6-7: Do I Love You? Storyhouse, Chester.

Join twenty-somethings Sally, Nat and Kyle in this John Godber comedy as they develop a love for Northern Soul.

May 6: The Phantoms starring Lee Mead.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 7: Curtis Steigers. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 7: Boyzlife (Keith Duffy & Brian McFadden). Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 7: Julian Clary – Fistful of Clary.

Grand, Blackpool.

May 7: Simon Reeve: To the Ends of the Earth. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 7: It’s A Beautiful Noise – The Definitive Neil Diamond Tribute. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 8: Harry Hill. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 8: A Beautiful Noise – The Music of Neil Diamond. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 8: Country Roads. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 8: The Waterboys. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 8: Simon Reeve – To the Ends of the Earth. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 9: Sophie McCartney: One Foot in the Rave. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

l Continued next page

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l Continued from p21

May 9: The Smooth Rock Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 9: Douze Points: Eurovision Classics.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 9: Genesis Connected. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Tribute show.

May 9: The Beatles v Elton John with a Little Help from their Friends Grand, Blackpool.

May 9: Mama – Genesis Tribute. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 9: The Spice Girls Experience – The Party. Grand, Blackpool.

May 9: Legends: The Divas. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 10: Phantoms of the Popera. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 10: Mark Steel: The Leopard in my House. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 10: Sun Records the Concert.

Grand, Blackpool.

May 10: Northern Live. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 10: One Night of Elvis – Lee Memphis King. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 10: Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 10: Nikita Kuzmin Midnight Dancer.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 11: Austentatious: An Improvised Jane Austen Novel. The Lowry Salford.

May 11: Aled Jones. Grand, Blackpool.

May 11: Irish Annie’s. Octagon, Bolton.

May 11: That’ll be the Day. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 12-17: & Juliet. Regent, Stoke. Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems.

May 12-13: …Earnest? Lyceum, Crewe. One-of-a-kind play that’s guaranteed to have you laughing whether you’re sitting in the audience… or performing onstage …

May 12: An Audience with Aggers and Tuffers. The Lowry, Salford.

May 12: An Audience with Lucy Worsley on Jane Austen. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 12: Simon Reeve – To the Ends of the Earth. Grand, Blackpool.

May 13-17: Girl on a Train. Playhouse, Liverpool. Gripping new play that will keep you guessing until the final moment. Louisa Lytton in the star role.

May 13-17: An Inspector Calls. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 13-17: Shrek The Musical. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 14-15: Theatre Re Presents BIRTH. Storyhouse, Chester. Emily is eight months pregnant when she reads her grandmother’s journal.

May 14: Pig Heart Boy. Grand, Blackpool.

Cameron is 13, and all he wants is to be normal – have friends, go to school, and dive to the bottom of his local swimming pool.

Audio described May 17.

May 14: Joel Dommett – Happy Idiot.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 14: Mothers of the Brides. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Comedy.

May 14: Frankenstein (On a Budget).

Octagon, Bolton. One man, one monster, one glorious dream to singlehandedly tell the most famous cult horror story of all time, and absolutely no budget whatsoever. What could possibly go wrong?

May 15: Murder She Didn’t Write.

Octagon, Bolton.

May 15: Henning When – Acid When.

Lyceum, Crewe.

STEPPING UP I SPY: Homage to the classic espionage thriller – The 39 Steps, Octagon, Bolton, Apr 18-May 10

May 15: Irish Annie’s. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 15: Sophie McCartney: One Foot in the Rave. The Lowry, Salford.

May 16: China Crisis. The Lowry, Salford.

May 16-17: All or Nothing – The Musical.

Octagon, Bolton. 1965, a new phenomenon erupted on the streets of London.

May 16: A Tribute to Sting & The Police.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 16: Clearwater Creedence Revival: Have You Seen the Rain 55th Anniversary Tour. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 16: Taylormania. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

May 16: Elkie Brooks: The Long Farewell Tour. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 16: Killer Couples. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 17-18: Farm Boy. Storyhouse, Chester.

Michael Morpurgo’s sequel to War Horse – a moving account of the changing face of the English countryside.

May 17: Beyond the Barricade. The Lowry, Salford. Musical.

May 17: Northern Live: Do I Love You. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 17: Elgar’s Cello Concerto.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 17: Killer Couples. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 17: Steely Don. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Tribute show.

May 18: Mozart in Motion: Master. William Aston Hall, Wrexham.

May 18: Johnny Cash Roadshow. Grand, Blackpool.

May 18: The Drifters. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 19-31: The Rocky Horror Show.

Musical. Palace Theatre, Manchester. Starring Jason Donovan.

May 21-24: Dracula. Octagon, Bolton.

May 29-21: Come Fall in Love. Opera House, Manchester. Stage adaptation of India’s longest running blockbuster movie – the highenergy, globe-trotting romcom Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, also known as DDLJ. May 19-20: The Worst Princess. Storyhouse, Chester. Family fun show.

May 19: Everton Legends. The Brindley, Runcorn. Graeme Sharp, Tony Cottee and Peter Reid.

May 20-24: North by Northwest. Playhouse, Liverpool. Emma Rice takes on film legend Alfred Hitchcock in this funny reworking that turns the original thriller on its head.

May 20-24: Peter James’ Picture You Dead.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. DSI Grace investigates a cold case that leads him into a dark underworld of greed, deception and murder.

May 20-24: Dear Evan Hansen. Grand, Blackpool. The musical of its generation for all generations. Signed/audio described May 24.

May 20: The Simon & Garfunkel Story. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 21: The Real Thing. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 22: Seven Drunken Nights: The Story of the Dubliners. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 22: Danny Baker: Aye Aye! Ahoy-Hoy! Lyceum, Crewe.

May 22: Aled Jones. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 22: Jason Mountford. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 23: Lost in Music – One Night at the Disco. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 23: The Carpenters Experience. The Brindley, Runcorn. Tribute show.

May 23: Jason Mountford: A Manford All Seasons. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Please help keep this vital charity newspaper alive

May 23: King of Pop. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Michael Jackson tribute show.

May 23: The Australian Bee Gees Show: Feel the Fever – Again. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 24: China Crisis. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 24: Fastlove. Pavilion, Rhyl. George Michael tribute show.

May 24: Big Dick Whittington. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Adult panto.

May 24: Julian Clary – A Fistful of Clary. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 25: Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance if My Life.

Octagon, Bolton.

May 25: Sweet & Sour - The Ultimate Tribute to Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 25: The Waterboys. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 25: The Sensational 60s Experience.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 25: What’s Love Got to do With It? Philharmonic, Liverpool. Tina Turner tribute show.

May 25: The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Show. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 25: Sexbomb – Celebrating the Music of Sir Tom Jones. Grand, Blackpool.

May 26-27: Pirates Love Underpants.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 27: Something About Lennon. Theatre Royal, St Helens. John Lennon story.

May 27: Spirit of the Blitz. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Music from the 40s.

May 27: The Simon & Garfunkel Story.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 28-31: Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. Grand, Blackpool. Uplifting musical.

May 28: The Simon & Garfunkel Story.

Regent, Stoke.

May 28: Flowers and Friendship Bracelets – The Ultimate Pop Concert. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 28: Woman Like Me – The Little Mix Show. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 28: Something About Lennon. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Actor and musician Daniel Taylor shares a heartfelt tribute to the inspiration behind a generation.

May 28: An Evening with Phil “The Power” Taylor. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 28: Aljaz and Janette: A Night to Remember. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 29-Jun 29: Dear England. The Lowry, Salford. Fictionalised account of the struggles and successes of England’s football teams.

Signed Jun 7; captioned Jun 11; audio described Jun 18 and Jun 28.

May 29: Sophie Ellis-Baxter. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 29: One Night in Dublin. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 29: The Wizard of Oz. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 29: Here Come the Girls. Theatre Royal, St Helens. The music of the best female singers of all time.

May 29: Cirque de Celine: Ultimate Tribute Concert to Celine Dion. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 30-31: Steve Steinman’s Eternal Love – The Musical. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 30: King of Pop. Pavilion, Rhyl. Michael Jackson tribute show with Navi and Jennifer Batten.

May 30: Rory Bremner: Making an Impression. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 30: Thank You for the Music.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 30: Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 31: Sensational 60s Experience.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

. . . see back page

O

HOW PLANTS GOT THEIR NAMES . . .

NCE seen, never forgotten – the exotic, perfumed blooms of brugmansia have an indisputable “wow!” factor.

Popularly known as “angels’ trumpets”, brugmansia are evergreen shrubs from riverside situations in tropical and sub-tropical zones in the Americas.

They grow from 2m-10m (6ft30ft) tall depending on species – there are only five species – and in summer produce dangling trumpet-shaped blooms with turned-up petals up to 30cm (12in) long.

Nearly all emit a fabulous fragrance at night. Brugmansias are also cultivated in cooler climates such as ours but flourish only in greenhouses and

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2025

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

BRUGMANSIA

An exotic bloom with the wow factor

conservatories. Colours range from rich gold in Brugmansia aurea to pale pink in Equador Pink, and pure white in Brugmansia x candida.

They are named in honour of Sebald Justinus Brugmans (17631819), an expert in many subjects from mathematics to astronomy, who became professor of botany at Leiden University.

PURE WHITE: Brugmansia x candida

WALL-ROUNDERS

SUPERB: Erysimum Fire and Flame (picture by Thompson & Morgan)

W

ALLFLOWERS are the complete spring plants – colourful, hardy, easy to grow from seeds or cuttings and with a sweet scent which attracts pollinators.

They remain popular however fashions change, invoking cottage gardens when planted informally in mixed colours, adding a touch of class to public parks and making excellent gap-fillers in garden borders.

Their colours range from palest cream through shades of orange and red to deep, velvety maroon. The latest varieties even combine two colours on the same petals.

Some of the best forms of the common wallflower, Erysimum cheiri, are in the Bedder series, such as Orange Bedder and Blood Red; the Fair Lady series of pastel

TIP OF THE SEASON TO GET the best from clematis species which flower in summer, such as the yellow Clematis tangutica, cut them down in early spring to within 30cm (12in) of the ground, pruning just above a pair of healthy buds.

Then apply a high-potash feed such as tomato fertiliser and a thick mulch of garden compost or wood chippings.

But don’t cut down springflowering kinds such as Clematis montana, just prune for tidiness after they have flowered.

If the blooms of any largeflowered variety such as Nelly Moser fades to a greenish colour a high-potash feed will bring back the brightness.

LUMINOUS: Erysimum Bowles’s Mauve

shades including a pink; Harlequin in dazzling mixed hues; Sunset Tutti Fruiti, mixing several shades of gold and red; and Harpur Crewe, rich yellow.

Erysimum cheiri comes from southern Europe but there are others such as the Siberian wallflower, Erysimum allionnii, which has bright bronze-orange flowers and blooms a little later so if the two species are combined in a mixed planting, the overall display lasts longer.

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COMPLETE SPRING PLANTS: Mixed wallflowers

There are also short-lived perennial varieties, lasting three or four years, which grow like small, rounded shrubs and bloom from late winter for much of the year.

These include Bowles’s Mauve, with blue-green leaves and spikes of luminous mauve flowers; Red Jep, with red, purple and pink shades on the same petals; and Winter Orchid, with rich orange purplishpink flowers.

A stunning new perennial, Erysimum Fire & Flame, bears golden-cream petals with flame-shaped red to purple markings – ideal for brightening the borders after winter’s gloom.

This variety, available as potted plants from Thompson & Morgan, continues to bloom for many weeks and looks superb

mixed with purple tulips. The plants are compact and reach 50cm (20in) in height and spread.

Wallflowers tolerate most types of soil but, as members of the cabbage family, they prefer a high lime content. With the exception of the short-lived perennials named above, they are best grown as biennials – sown one year to flower the next and then discarded. Seed is sown in June to flower next spring.

The young plants should be thinned to 20cm (8in) apart and planted out in autumn.

Easier still to grow are young plants which can be bought by mail order from major suppliers at this time of year.

. . . see back page

23

All Together NOW!

24

SPRING 2025

The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD Can you find the celebrity name hidden in this Starspot Crossword? Complete the crossword in the normal way then make a note of the letters contained in all the squares which are marked with shaded stars. These letters will make an anagram of the name you are looking for.

1

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10

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11

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chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.

QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: What type of female animal is referred to as a jenny?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: What was the name of Gandalf’s horse in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

20

★

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your

Rabbit Mule Donkey Hare

★ 24

28 25

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Labrador Bloodhound Collie Spaniel

DOWN

1. Scorn (8) 5. Indonesian island (4) 7. Testing (9) 9. Subsequent (4) 10. Medical photograph (1-3) 11. Was in continued pain (5) 14. Loathe (5) 15. Consumed (5) 16. Progressive person (5) 17. Equip (anag.) (5) 18. Take a dip (5) 19. Condemn (5) 22. Was dishonest (4) 24. Dutch cheese (4) 26. Logical basis (9) 27. Twilight (4) 28. Gifted (8)

1. Grain (4) 2. Written material (4) 3. Imitate (5) 4. Metric weight (5) 5. Unlucky influence (4) 6. Temporary suspension (8) 7. National treasury (9) 8. Thanks (9) 11. Having weapons (5) 12. Chaos (5) 13. Midlands city (5) 14. Dismayed (8) 20. Throw out of house (5) 21. Of the kidneys (5) 23. Dismal (4) 24. Flair (4) 25. Female servant (4)

A B C D

Backgammon Chess Mah-jong Draughts

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: Which English county was once divided into areas known as Ridings?

A B C D

Kent Norfolk Yorkshire Hampshire

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: In the Northern Hemisphere which month contains the longest day?

A B C D

May June July August

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which product was first sold as ‘the esteemed brain tonic and intellectual beverage’?

A B C D

1 2 8 3 7 3

1

9

2 4 5 3 7 4 2 5 7 7 9 6 2 5 1 7

7

8

1

6 5 7

9 6 4 2 9 4

7

1 3 9 8 2 8 5 7 3 1 5 7 2

A B C D

Stratten Lamour Parker Gale

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Who had the nickname The Iron Duke?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Where was the artist Pablo Picasso born?

A B C D

A B C D

The Duke of Marlborough The Duke of Devonshire The Duke of Wellington The Duke of Gloucester

FILL in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it.

Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners.

You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.

4 3 1 9 2 5

The red telephone kiosk London’s tube map The zebra crossing Nelson’s Column

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: In the Wizard of Oz, what was Dorothy’s surname?

The Inbetweeners Grange Hill Misfits Skins

THERE is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not have to guess.

2 8 6 4

A B C D

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: English actor Dev Patel made his screen debut in which TV teenage drama?

A B C D

Outer Hebrides Shetlands Faroes Orkneys

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: Which of the following was designed by the architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott?

Coca-Cola Horlicks Guinness Ribena

KAKURO

DIFFICULT

A B C D

English actor Dev Patel. See Question 8

SUDOKU

EASY

Saturn Mars Uranus Jupiter

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: In which island group is the town of Stromness?

Basketball Football Netball Baseball

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: In which board game can a player ‘huff’ the other as a form of forfeit?

ACROSS

A B C D

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: The position of wing attack is played in which sport?

A B C D

Hedwig Shadowfax Shardik Aslan

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Which planet in Gustav Holst’s The Planets Suite is described as ‘the bringer of jollity’?

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: What type of dog was Walt Disney’s Pluto?

15

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www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Málaga Barcelona Seville Bilbao

MEDIUM 12

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www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Telephone dialling pads combine several letters on one key. Here we have encoded several sets of words or items by using numbers rather than letters. Then we have divided them into groups of three characters and run all the names one after another to make your task a little more difficult. Can you crack the codes?

EACH number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off.

Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

/

(

1 []’–

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

3

2. geographical features 268 317 421 825 539 122 696 617 663 122 915 253 122 831 485 591 386 314 455 163 721 467 431 254 331 748 371 865 226 612 262 512 724 162 326

3. presidential candidates 436 743 162 468 376 192 583 716 663 253 156 461 537 791 642 423 513 852 547 184 662 713 393 914 672 231 473 353 915 646 162 224 612 514 673

4. fictional islands 638 375 263 154 554 788 129 522 261 786 637 475 316 282 766 318 722 917 444 912 722 153 917 585 518 732 787 317 488 837 122 765 661 272 449

5. novels by Dick Francis 787 244 481 861 843 144 581 747 512 663 186 147 433 138 361 666 391 266 322 251 265 812 767 734 731 863 371 673 377 174 557 144 441 782 537

6. Game of Thrones 635 472 637 317 267 217 827 518 436 614 739 569 127 921 782 751 566 176 691 897 466 152 664 783 717 826 647 122 728 436 615 672 416 676 668

PATHWORDS

SPOT CHECK

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 19 articles of clothing.

Can you place the six dominoes (right) into the grid below in such a way that the number of spots in all four rows across and all four rows down totals 9?

T

E

A

J

U O

R

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T

A

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K

C

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S

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W H

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B

A

B

A

B

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R M A

J

B

L

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A

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T

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K

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Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT – DOOR – MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out a piece of armour.

O

R E

W C

A B

Z

S L

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characters from

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OUT BACK

I

A R G A S TRANSFORMER

U

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WORD WIZARD

2

3

4

5

6

Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition?

C

E D

SPHENE 1) A headband or fillet worn by women in ancient Greece; 2) The hazy halo of light surrounding the moon when it is covered by light cloud; 3) The mineral titanite, occurring as wedgeshaped crystals in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

F

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unsuccessful US

1. country houses 227 453 661 727 515 476 673 122 785 314 444 253 731 227 853 138 626 623 172 751 227 853 146 927 314 642 837 866 314 255 146 533 629 146 873

1

MISSING LINK

PRIZE

25

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2025

A R

N

T

MAKE A DATE In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?

1. Wilhelm Röntgen discovers electromagnetic waves which he calls X-rays.

2. Oscar Wilde’s last play The Importance of Being Earnest is first shown at St. James’ Theatre in London.

S

3. Sigmund Freud publishes his paper on Studies In Hysteria, marking the beginnings of psychoanalysis.

Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word.

Clue: No matter which can be amusingly eccentric.

WAS IT? a) 1890; b) 1895; c) 1900; d) 1905; e) 1910.

___ +Z=Z___

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords pyjamas; shorts; blouse; kimono; tabard; coat; trousers; bikini; jacket; sweatshirt; blazer; gown; cardigan; poncho; vest; dress; stockings; underpants; cape.

2 6 7 4 5 9 8 1 3

8 4 3 2 7 1 6 5 9

9 5 1 8 3 6 4 7 2

5 8 6 3 1 4 2 9 7

SUDOKU EASY

1 7 9 6 8 2 5 3 4

4 3 2 7 9 5 1 8 6

6 1 5 9 2 3 7 4 8

3 2 8 1 4 7 9 6 5

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SUDOKU DIFFICULT

6 2 4 9 3 7 1 5 8

8 5 1 4 6 2 7 9 3

3 7 9 1 5 8 4 2 6

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KAKURO MEDIUM

5 4 9

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Accumulator Quiz 1 – C; 2 – B; 3 – C; 4 – D; 5 – C; 6 – B; 7 – A; 8 – D; 9 – C; 10 – B; 11 – D; 12 – D; 13 – A; 14 – D; 15 – A. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Contempt; 5 Java; 7 Examining; 9 Next; 10 X-ray; 11 Ached; 14 Abhor; 15 Eaten; 16 Mover; 17 Pique; 18 Bathe; 19 Decry; 22 Lied; 24 Edam; 26 Rationale; 27 Dusk; 28 Talented.

Down – 1 Corn; 2 Text; 3 Mimic; 4 Tonne; 5 Jinx; 6 Abeyance; 7 Exchequer; 8 Gratitude; 11 Armed; 12 Havoc; 13 Derby; 14 Appalled; 20 Evict; 21 Renal; 23 Dark; 24 Elan; 25 Maid.

Star Name: PHILL JUPITUS

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. Sphene is a mineral.

Dialling Codes 1. Basildon Park; Lismore Castle; Highclere Castle; Duncombe Park; Castle Howard; Ingatestone Hall; Holdenby House.

2. cove; ria; valley; canyon; pond; bay; lake; cave; gully; dune; hill; mesa; gorge; cliff; river; volcano; canal; arch; ocean.

3. George McGovern; Walter Mondale; John Kerry; Michael Dukakis; Thomas Dewey; Horace Greeley; John McCain; Al Gore.

4. Neverland; Lilliput; Azkaban; Summerisle; Navarone; Tracy; Piggy; Crab Key; Skull; Treasure; Shutter; Absolom; Craggy.

5. Straight; To The Hilt; Risk; Come to Grief; Even Money; Comeback; Bolt; Crossfire; Under Orders; Silks; High Stakes.

6. Melisandre; Sansa Stark; Theon Greyjoy; Arya Stark; Jon Snow; Tyrion Lannister; Stannis Baratheon; Jorah Mormont.

Spot Check A = 5; B = 3; C = 1; D = 6; E = 4; F = 2.

Missing Link skin; hard; idiot; extension; look; draw. Armour: shield.

Make a Date The year was 1895.

Transformer Any + Z = Zany.

Portraits Weddings Commercial Print sales Tuitian Picture Framing Photo Restoration Studio Hire.

255 Seabank Road, New Brighton, Wallasey, Merseyside, CH45 1HE. Tel: 0151 638 0412 Email: ken@42multimedia.co.uk

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HISTORIC: The plaque on the wall of the former Natwest bank in Castle Street, Liverpool

All Together NOW! is helping and inspiring tens of thousands of people.

But the charity needs to find ways to balance the books.

You can help in a big way by becoming one of our loyal subscribers. For a suggested £20 donation (more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

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A sanctuary in the city MEDIVAL: How the original Sanctuary Stone may have looked

S

ET into the pavement in one of Liverpool’s busiest streets, the oldest surviving medieval relic in the city centre goes almost entirely unnoticed.

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Thousands of people walk over it every day without any idea of its historical significance.

The Sanctuary Stone, outside the former NatWest Bank on Castle Street, has been there for more than eight centuries.

A flat, circular slab of green volcanic rock, it is about 18 inches in diameter and has four parallel lines scored across it.

The first written reference to the stone appears in 1292, but it is certainly older than this.

The stone was once one of a pair, and its partner stood on Dale Street near the corner of Stanley Street. However, this has long-since vanished and records do not say when or why it was removed.

They marked the boundaries of the

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RELIC: The Sanctuary Stone on Castle Street, Liverpool

Town Fairs, which were held annually on July 25 and November 11, and were of vital importance to the developing town.

When King John created his new “Town and Borough of Leverpul”, in 1207, the right to hold a fair was one of the privileges that he granted, and this established Liverpool as a market town as well as an important port and harbour.

The fairs brought in a greater range of goods and commodities to the town, as well as merchants, traders, and customers from miles around.

Royal connection

These people not only traded with each other but they also bought goods and services from the townspeople, which helped to create a burgeoning local economy.

However, the reason why the stones had a name other than as simple boundary markers for the market days, was because they also signified another

by KEN PYE

privilege that had been granted to the town by the King; the Right of Sanctuary.

For 10 days before and 10 days after these one-day events, protection from arrest was secured within the precincts of the fair, mainly for debtors who would otherwise have been thrown into prison.

The Right of Sanctuary was a temporary guarantee of safety from prosecution that dated from early Anglo-Saxon times.

From that period all churches and churchyards in England generally provided refuge for fugitives for 40 days, while permanent refuge was available at the great Liberties of Beverley, Durham, and Ripon.

The King regarded Liverpool as being so important that he allowed the town this special freedom too.

However, the ancient tradition was abolished by Henry VIII, during the Reformation, so it’s no use trying to claim sanctuary on Castle Street today!

Ken Pye – 0151 427 2717

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ARIES (March 21st - April 20th)

and daily routines. April sees a focus on health and relationships. You’re encouraged to address any negative influences on your health, such as poor eating habits or a potentially toxic social circle. A change in exercise routine could be beneficial. The last week of the month offers a chance for significant changes in your living situation. You’ll feel a sense of generosity in May, especially towards family and relatives who’ve been there for you. Your kindness is your strength, and the more you give, the more you’ll receive.

March 2025 marks a powerful phase. This is a rare opportunity for long-term growth, encouraging you to take charge and shape a solid foundation for future achievements. It’s time to break old habits. April brings unexpected news that may alter existing plans, marking the beginning of a new phase in your life. Embrace this change and trust in your ability to navigate any challenges that arise. A young family member’s ambitions may also come to the fore.

By the end of the month, any early troubles should dissipate quickly. Your confidence soars in May, enabling you to work hard towards your dreams. This is a wonderful time to explore your creative side and join communities.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd - December 21st)

TAURUS (April 21st - May 21st)

Let go of past traumas and embrace inner peace as you prepare for a fresh start. March’s energies call for quiet reflection and spiritual insight. Embrace solitude, and allow this period to guide you toward a brighter future.

Peace and privacy will be your main focus in April, providing a chance for self-reflection and prioritising your creative and spiritual needs.

Intense family discussions mark the third week, focusing on home improvements or fulfilling a loved one’s aspirations. A partner’s unexpected support will surprise and encourage you in May. Your hard work and accomplishments won’t go unnoticed. The month ends on a challenging note.

GEMINI( May 22nd - June 21st)

March calls you to explore your psyche, question established beliefs, and embrace a path of authentic personal development. Trust the journey, as these transformative experiences lead you toward lasting fulfilment.

April, is likely to be a period of unpredictability and sudden changes. The initial weeks will bring frustrations. It is crucial to remain calm and resilient. As the month concludes, be cautious to avoid unnecessary conflicts, particularly with older family members. May promises to be a vibrant, dynamic month. Don’t hesitate to ask a trusted friend for guidance. Expressing your thoughts will be healthier than keeping them bottled up.

CANCER (June 22nd - July 23rd)

March’s cosmic energies encourage harmony, open-heartedness, and clarity in all relationships. Embrace this period of connection, growth, and renewal, as the energies help align your relationships with your inner values. Personal goals will take centre stage in April, making it an ideal time to lay a robust foundation for your future. This could involve enhancing your qualifications or updating your existing skills, which could also serve to keep your motivation high. May is an opportune time to share hobbies with friends and family, and engage in conversations filled with mutual understanding. Enjoy some quality time with a young relative.

LEO (July 24th - August 23rd)

New horizons and opportunities are on the way.

Whether embarking on a journey, pursuing higher education, or launching a project, March encourages you to embrace life’s possibilities.

Stay strong in April and utilise any surge in energy towards improving your health and wellbeing. Your strong opinions on significant topics such as politics and religion will resonate with your friends. Expect to be burdened with additional responsibilities in May. Despite these extra tasks, you will astonish even yourself with your productivity and organisational skills.

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SPRING 2025

RUSSELL GRANT What‘s in store for you this spring

Towards the end of the month, your expertise will be sought for a community project, leading to new friendships and recognition from a person in power. An unexpected offer from this individual will be a pleasant surprise.

VIRGO (August 24th - September 23rd)

March encourages you to deepen bonds, release what no longer serves, and welcome fresh starts. This period is ripe for significant personal and relational progress, guiding you toward a more fulfilling future. Your focus will be on finances throughout April. Exciting opportunities are within your reach. However, be cautious as this energy could also lead to conflicts or creative blocks. Towards the end of the month, you may encounter disputes over inheritance issues with shared property. May promises to be a significant month. Striking a balance between everyday routines and new matters will bring positive benefits to your home life and relationships.

LIBRA (September 24th - October 23rd)

This is a time for teamwork, adaptability and shared dreams. Whether it’s a project, business venture, or relationship, value unity and trust in mutual support. Remember, strength lies in unity. Embrace change, trust your intuition, and confidently step into a future aligned with your aspirations. Over the month of April, you will experience a surge in charm and charisma. Be mindful of the signals you’re sending out to your friends, as they often reflect your own beliefs about friendship. May promises to be an eventful month, filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Stand up for those unable to help themselves. The month ends with a green light for previously discussed deals.

SCORPIO (October 24th - November 22nd)

March is a powerful month for transformation and renewal. With Saturn moving into Aries on the 24th, this period calls for greater responsibility and commitment in health, career,

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March’s energies support a balance between ambition and creativity, urging you to approach dreams pragmatically. Be bold, pursue passions with confidence, and turn your aspirations into reality. April promises a period of vibrant energy and significant accomplishments. You’ll find yourself in a position to utilise a great amount of energy, which could lead to remarkable achievements, earning you praise and recognition. You’re set to have an engaging and dynamic May. Be proactive and let your emotions guide your actions. As the month concludes, be mindful of potential issues in joint matters and partnerships, as health or trust .

CAPRICORN (December 22nd - January 20th)

Let go of outdated patterns, and trust the journey toward self-discovery. Embrace new perspectives and nurture close relationships. In April Capricorn, your focus will be on family and work responsibilities. It’s essential to remain focused, completing all tasks before moving onto new ones. Give yourself the freedom to enjoy life. It’s crucial to balance work and play.

Mistakes that have long been hidden may come to light in May, prompting you to stand in support of those in need. Social activities and the company of cheerful friends will help uplift your spirits.

AQUARIUS (January 21st - February 19th)

It’s time to set clear goals. Challenges this month present opportunities for resilience and self-improvement. The New Moon in Aries on the 29th in your 3rd house invites fresh beginnings in communication and skill development. April is a time to examine the roles you and others play in each other’s lives.

Your charisma and passion will make your words impactful and inspiring. This is also a good time to think about innovative ways to generate extra income. A disagreement may arise during early May about future plans, but open discussions could help resolve tensions and improve romantic prospects. Prioritise your health.

PISCES (February 20th - March 20th)

March supports self-discovery, healing, and growth, empowering you to step confidently into a new phase of life. Embrace this opportunity for inner transformation and renewal. April brings many challenges and growth opportunities. A peculiar event towards the end of the first week may necessitate a reassessment of your current objectives. During May, you may find friends or neighbours often calling upon yourself for favours. Be mindful of setting boundaries so as not to be taken for granted. Community matters may require your attention, and you’re urged to ensure those in power learn from past mistakes.

By the end of the month, conversations around home, family, and finances will take centre stage.

books

The Matterhorn’s missing pictures The Ascent of the Matterhorn: The Forgotten Photographs by Edward Wymper, Gibson Square, £20

IN THE annals of mountaineering history, few tales were as compelling and transformative as Edward Whymper’s.

First published in 1871, this classic work chronicles the first successful climb of the Matterhorn in 1865, a feat that heralded mountaineering as a popular sport and spawned a new genre – that of the high-thrills adventure book.

Almost 150 years later his memoir is republished for the first time in an expanded illustrated edition. Whymper was not only a keen mountaineer but also a Victorian driven by an insatiable curiosity.

One of his pursuits was photography and in 1874 he was the first man to lug a mobile camera on to the Matterhorn to take pictures, which he used for his lantern-lecture tours. They are included for the first time in this edition.

Remember this?

Looking back at… THE 1966 WORLD CUP, by Matt Singleton with illustrations

by Samuel Larn, £14.99

THE second in a series of books developed for people living with dementia and other cognitive difficulties recounts a joyous event in England’s sporting history.

With a foreword by Sir Geoff Hurst, the last surviving member of the 1966 World Cup-winning team, and an audiobook read by Clive Tyldesley, the book is intended to spark memories and conversations between people living with dementia and their loved ones.

Looking back at.. the 1966 World Cup has been produced by Cognitive Books in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society’s Accelerator Programme and the Football Association.

. . . see back page

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