The Knowsley Challenge

Issue 285 January 2011

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WELCOME DAME KELLY

INSIDE THIS MONTH

POLICE APPEAL OVER MISSING MEGAN GARGAN Page 5

STOCKBRIDGE PUB LOSES LICENCE Page 2

CINEMA PROJECT COMES TO LIFE Page 4

CANCER iVAN SAVES LIVES IN KNOWSLEY Page 6

WOMEN HELP RAISE AWARENESS Page 8

taff and pupils from St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School, Kirkby had a surprise visitor to their school in the shape of Dame Kelly Holmes this week.

S

Headteacher, Paul Cronin, said: “We met Dame Kelly last year after receiving an award

from TES School Award for Outstanding Sporting Initiative, she was very interested in our Globetrotters scheme to promote health through physical activities and we invited her the to visit us at St Laurence’s any time she was in the area.

“It turned out that she was filming in Liverpool and decided to take up our invitation and

visit the school.

“We had a fantastic morning as she toured classrooms and the children though highly excited where a credit to the school.

“It also transpired that Dame Kelly has a motto – Be the best you can be – which is also a motto we use at our school.

“We where honoured to have her at the school especially as

she had a knee injury and was very tired, but she would not be put off from touring the classrooms and taking a question and answer session with the pupils.

“On behalf of the school and the pupils I would like to say a big thank you to Dame Kelly for taking time to visit our school, she is a great role model and ambassador for school sports”.

CHRISTMAS BIKES FOR LOCAL CHILDREN Page 12

PRESCOT SWIMMING CLUB PROMOTED Page 24

Community Drama Group Every Wednesday starting 26 January 2011, 11.30am - 1.30pm

St Brigid’s Space for sports & arts, Waterpark Drive, Stockbridge Village, Knowsley L32 7RE. Opportunity for adults 19+ to come together, develop drama skills and create a performance!

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Contact Knowsley Arts & Heritage Service at 0151 443 5619, leanne.jones@knowsley.gov.uk or Altru Drama on 0151 443 0333.

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2 The Challenge January 2011

PUB AT CENTRE OF ‘DRUG DEALING’ LOSES LICENCE After a hearing before Liverpool City Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee following an application

by Merseyside Police to review its premises licence, the Black Angus Pub, Barons Hey, Stockbridge Village has had its Premises Licence revoked.

This means that the pub, which is situated on the Knowsley/Liverpool border, is no longer able to sell alcohol or conduct other licensable activities from its premises.

In response to the decision the Safer Knowsley Partnership is urging local residents to continue to support them in tackling crime and disorder in the area.

A spokesperson for Knowsley Council said: “This is a positive result for Stockbridge Village residents. A number of residents had expressed concern over some of the activity taking place on the premises but many of them also feared reprisals if they were to speak out. We have taken their concerns on board and included them in our representations to the Licensing Committee.

“We want to send a clear message to the community that their voice counts, that we took their comments forward and together we were successful. We believe the committee made the right decision and that residents should not feel that they have lost an amenity but gained a safer neighbourhood.”

The Safer Knowsley Partnership has been working closely with the community in Stockbridge Village since January 2010 to tackle their priority issues and to improve resident’s quality of life in preparation for the physical regeneration that will see the area benefit from a new £25 million village centre.

The Black Angus Public House had attracted the attention of both the Stockbridge Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Serious Organised Crime

Agency (SOCA). Indeed, police officers visited the premises on a number of occasions prior to its license suspension; those visits resulted in numerous arrests being made for Class A drug offences.

North Liverpool Licensing Officer Stuart Moore, Merseyside Police added: “Merseyside Police believes that the Black Angus played a significant role in relation to the supply of class ‘a’ drugs in the Stockbridge Village area. This action is an indication of just how seriously we view the supply of drugs as part of our ongoing total war on crime.

It should be clearly understood that we will leave no stone unturned in order to identify, locate and arrest those who seek to pedal drugs in our communities”.

A SOCA spokesman commented: “SOCA is proud to be part of the Safer Knowsley Partnership, working with the community to unsettle and disrupt those involved in all levels of criminality. The decision will impact on a known hub for criminals and should be seen as another victory for the local community”.

HUYTON MAN SENTENCED OVER GUN CRIMES

MERSEYSIDE DETECTIVE RECEIVES QUEEN'S POLICE MEDAL A MERSEYSIDE detective who led the hunt for the killer of Rhys Jones has received the Queen’s Police Medal.

Detective Chief Superintendent Brian McNeill is honoured in recognition of a 30-year career.

Mr McNeill, head of the Force Crime Operations Unit was acting head of the Matrix unit which tackles gang and gun crime, when Rhys was shot.

Merseyside Chief Constable Jon Murphy praised Detective Chief Superintendent Brian McNeill.

Deputy Chief Constable Bernard Lawson said: “The Queens Police Medal is not given lightly and is usually awarded to those who are exceptional leaders.

“Brian is an outstanding professional senior police officer who has provided the very highest standards of service to the public of Merseyside throughout his 30 year career.

“Brian is passionate about the work he does, leading many of the force’s investigations into major incidents and he is an excellent role model for Merseyside detectives to follow”.

WORK STARTS ON NEW PIPES FOR KIRKBY

United Utilities has started work to reinforce its water A 19 year-old man was sentenced to 2 years pipelines in Kirkby. imprisonment for guncrime offences at Liverpool The scheme, which started Crown Court. during winter last year, will Michael O'Rourke, of Lincombe Road, Huyton, see engineers working on pleaded Guilty to charges relating to the behalf of the water company possession of an imitation firearm. until this spring to reinforce Anyone with information about guncrime or those approximately 7km of old involved in anyway with firearms can contact the cast-iron water mains by dedicated Guncrime Hotline on 0800 458 1211, essentially threading new or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. plastic pipes through them – as well as cleaning approximately 880m of existing mains.

Dan Smith, Project Manager, said: "This work will ensure that the Kirkby area will have a modern and robust water supply for many years to come.

"Around 10,000 properties in Kirkby will benefit directly from the work."

Engineers have started work on an existing water • COOKER FITS £30 • FIRE FITS ..... £65 main between Coopers Lane and South Boundary Road.

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"As the water main we are working on is positioned underneath the road we have to put measures in place to control traffic so we can work safely,” said Dan. "There may be occasions when lane restrictions become necessary but the road will remain open at all times.

"We would like to apologise in advance for any short-term inconvenience this work may cause.

"We will do everything possible to keep disruption levels to a minimum and we will write to customers across the area to update them on our progress.”

For further details about this project please telephone United Utilities’ Service Enquiries line on 0845 746 22 00 – quoting project number 80003705 – between 8am and 8pm Monday to Fridays; 8am to 6pm on Saturdays and 8am to 12noon on Sundays.

ARE YOU ACTING UP?!

Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service is teaming up with Aiming High for Disabled Children to launch an exciting new drama group!

Acting Up! Is a drama group for disabled and young people who are interested in drama and performing. This is a chance to have fun, meet new friends and make a show together!

The project starts on Tuesday 11th January and sessions will take place every Tuesday, 5.30pm – 7.30pm at The Youthy (the building next to the River Alt Resource Centre) Woolfall Heath Avenue, Huyton, L36 3YE This project will last three months and will end in a fantastic show at the end of March.

Sessions are FREE If you, or someone you know is interested in getting involved please give us a call.

For more information or if you have any special requirements contact Leanne or Katy on 0151 443 5619 or e-mail leanne.jones@knowsley.gov.uk

The Challenge January 2011 3

MAJOR NEW PROJECT HELPS VULNERABLE TEENAGERS Women. Looking to start your own business?

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Knowsley Development Trust Chief Executive Steve Dumbell pictured with the successful students on the first Creative Routes to Employment course.

A major new project is helping some of Knowsley’s most vulnerable teenagers to find and take up employment and training opportunities.

Creative Routes to Employment is working with young people aged 16-20 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) and face a barrier to finding a job such as a learning difficulty.

The project - launched by Knowsley Council Leader Cllr Ron Round - is financed by the Working Neighbourhoods Fund and run by the Kirkby-based Knowsley Enterprise Academy, part of Knowsley Development Trust.

Creative Routes has already helped all of its first group of teenagers into work or training, thanks to what Enterprise Academy Manager Sue Temple-Fielding has described as its ‘unique approach’.

“The project has been a success because it’s not a one-size-fits-all initiative,” she explained. “We customise the programme to the learners’ individual skills and preferences, charting a different way forward for each young person.”

The Creative Routes project includes a range of confidence building, problem solving and communication skills activities.

Students also visit local businesses to find out what they do, and to learn about the skills and qualities companies are looking for when recruiting new employees.

Learners are then found work experience opportunities in the sectors that particularly interest them. Alternatively, they can do taster courses with colleges or training providers to help them decide which further education route they want to follow.

Meanwhile, throughout the programme students are encouraged to use their new skills in a practical way, for example by raising funds for charity. Help with literacy and numeracy and other support is also available on an ongoing basis.

When they are ready, learners can then work towards accreditation that suits their particular needs. Examples to date include passing a driving test and obtaining a CLAIT computer certificate or forklift truck licence.

As a result of these measures, a new future is on the cards for all eight learners on the first Creative Routes course.

Two have moved on to apprenticeships, two are employed as warehouse

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assistants, one has taken up an admin role, one is working in a garage and the remaining two have enrolled on sportrelated college courses.

“I’m absolutely delighted at what this group has achieved,” said Sue TempleFielding. “They all faced significant barriers to employment and training but now, thanks to their effort and commitment, they can look forward to the world of work with much more confidence.”

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Home-Start volunteers held at Christmas celebration in recognition of their volunteer work at the Derby Lodge Hotel, Huyton.

The volunteers where awarded certificates for the number of hours they give to the scheme. Once trained, each volunteer is asked to support a family once a week for up to 3 hours, the volunteers, pictured have completed 100, 200, 300 and one has done 400 hours family support.

Kath Hughes received a certificate this year for outstanding achievement in her volunteer role; Cllr Chris O’Hare who is also chair of our trustees presented her award.

Across the uk more than 15,000 HomeStart volunteers visit families at home each week, supporting parents in situations as diverse as isolation, bereavement, multiple births, illness, disability or who are just finding parenting a struggle. They provide non-judgmental practical and emotional support and help build the family’s confidence and ability to cope. Home-Start runs more services and has more volunteers than any other family support service in the UK.

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The Challenge January 2011

GO THE DISTANCE WITH THE ACTIVE KNOWSLEY CHALLENGE 2011 It’s that time of year to get active and have fun with the Active Knowsley Challenge 2011 held on Sunday 15th May at Knowsley Hall.

The Active Knowsley Challenge is a team running event with a difference, you can run (or walk) safe in the knowledge there is no traffic whilst taking in the beautiful surroundings.

There really is something for every age and ability so why not get involved in the following: 3k or 8k walks – Ideal for all ages and abilities, the 3k walk is pushchair and wheelchair friendly whilst the 8k walk is suitable for keen walkers Junior Active Challenge – For those budding athletes, this 2k run is open for

young people aged 3 to 16 years old and has four categories based on school years 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 and 9/11.

Adult 5k Challenge – For those wanting a real challenge, get involved in this 5k team event. £28 per team.

So whatever your age or ability get involved and enjoy a family fun day out, browse the stalls and enjoy the free entertainment and activities on offer throughout the day.

For more information or to pre-book your entry for any of the Active Knowsley Challenge events call Steve Guy on 0151 443 3870 or E-mail steve.guy@knowsley.gov.uk or visit www.knowsley.gov.uk/activeknowsley to download an entry form.

YOUNG PEOPLE TURN THEIR TALENT TO ART A group of young people from Knowsley have got together to create their very own exhibition of work titled ‘Treasure’ which will be showcased in an exhibition at Kirkby Gallery until 6th February 2011.

The young people, aged 16-19 took part in weekly workshops over the summer, where they were mentored by known artists such as Sharon Mutch, Susan Corner and Bernadette O’Toole in a bid to develop their creativity skills and discover a hidden talent. The workshops involved photography sessions, fashion design, drawing, printmaking and jewellery making.

This project is a partnership between Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service and Bluecoat and is part of a double exhibition showcased at Kirkby Gallery. The other exhibition titled ‘Crafted’ celebrates and showcases the work of 26 contemporary designers and artist makers who live or work in the North West. There are many great disciplines on show, from glassmaking to textile design and recycled plastic.

For more information contact Tina Ball / Lucy Knight at Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service on 0151 443 5619 or e-mail Tina.Ball@knowsley.gov.uk

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CINEMA PROJECT COMES TO LIFE Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service have teamed up with artist collective Re-Dock to transform an empty shop unit in Kirkby town centre into a bespoke cinematic experience.

The project titled ‘A small cinema in Kirkby’ will transform the former Maze Shop into a custom built cinema using local residents’ favourite memories of their trips to the cinema.

From Saturday morning kid’s films to the first screening of Grease plus ushers selling ice cream, red velvet curtains and popcorn, many local residents have been contributing their memories to the project.

The project culminates in a short film screening extravaganza taking place on 29th and 30th January. There will be one hour screenings especially for families and children as well as short films based on Kirkby and its people plus some never before seen local archive footage.

Cllr Connor, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture said: “This project is part of a wider initiative to regenerate and support town centres across the borough. By making use of empty shops we aim to bring town centres to life with exciting projects such as this.”

This project is brought to you by arts practitioners, landlords, local businesses and residents and in partnership with Knowsley Council, Space to Create looks to celebrate and invigorate the heart of our town

centres.

Watch as over the coming months empty shop windows are transformed into vibrant community displays and shop spaces become galleries for local groups and used to showcase innovative creative work.

For more information on the cinema project call Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service on 0151 443 5619 or email Jo.Dry@knowsley.gov.uk

ENFORCEMENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL EXTENSION Planning officers in Knowsley have taken action against a resident to remove an illegal extension after neighbours complained.

The extension had been built, without planning permission, on the side of a house in Richmond Way in Huyton.

The single storey extension had a high roller shutter door at the front, which planning officers said gave it “the appearance of an industrial unit”.

Several local people complained to Knowsley Council, saying the extension was unsightly.

The owner of the house, Leslie Nolan, was contacted and told that it would have to be removed as it did not comply with planning policies.

LEAGUE CONTINUES The Liverpool and District Short Mat Indoor Bowls League will recommence their indoor bowls on Wednesday 12th January from 79.30pm at the Huyton Leisure Centre, Roby Road, Huyton.

The league are still looking for players and teams, beginners are very welcome.

The league so far stands Woolton 52pts Guildhall 36pts Sheila’s Wheels 21pts Odds & Sods 15pts For further information about joining the league either go along to the Huyton Leisure Centre on the evening or contact Eric Robertson on 0151 480 7529

The Challenge January 2011

SCIENCE WITH A DIFFERENCE

Pupils in Knowsley were treated to a science lesson with a difference when a famous circus performer brought the subject to life.

Guinness World Record holder James Soper performed his ‘Science of the Circus’ show, a unique combination of the traditional academic subject mixed with circus skills.

Year three and four pupils were engrossed in the hour-long session, which involved everything from juggling to unicycle riding, and was held at Knowsley Park Centre for Learning.

A qualified teacher and professional circus performer, James Soper has

APPEAL FOR MISSING GIRL Merseyside Police is becoming increasingly concerned about the whereabouts of a 16-year-old girl who has been missing from her home in Huyton since New Year's day.

Megan Gargan was last seen by a friend, at Huyton Village Train Station at 7pm on 1 January.

She is described as white, 5ft 4in tall with a medium build, blue eyes, freckled complexion and shoulder length light brown hair. When she was last seen she was wearing a grey vest top, a brown Jacket and black leggings.

She is known to frequent the areas of Huyton, Prescot, Liverpool City Centre and the Smithdown Road area.

Police are keen to talk to Megan, or anyone who has seen her as soon as possible to check that she is OK. Anyone with information is asked to call Merseyside Police on 0151 709 6010 and ask for the Knowsley Control Room, or call 0151 777 6504.

also appeared on BBC’s ‘Bang goes the theory’ programme, and performs his ‘Science of the Circus’ show in schools up and down the country.

‘We wanted something that would inspire the pupils to develop a love for science in a fun and stimulating way,” commented Mark McClure, Head of Science at Knowsley Park Centre for Learning, who organised the day.

“The Science of the Circus seemed ideal and showed how science, particularly forces, can be demonstrated through circus acts and in our every day lives.”

He added, “The children had a lot of fun and James did a great job keeping them entertained and educated at the same time. The pupils went away with an increased knowledge of the subject which I’m sure will stay with them for a long time.”

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The Challenge January 2011

Challengehealth FREE WEIGHT LOSS CLASSES IN PRESCOT, HUYTON AND HALEWOOD January is a time when many of us make New Years resolutions to shape up and lose weight and local people looking for a bit of help on this front have been invited to ‘Measure Up.’ Run by the Knowsley Health & Wellbeing Community Health Development Team, ‘Measure Up’ is a FREE 12 week weight management programme which includes information on nutrition and healthy lifestyles as well as gentle physical activity sessions.

The programme is open to Knowsley adults of any age who are keen to lose weight and it is completely FREE. Weekly sessions will run on: • Wednesdays, 10am-12pm, starting from 19th January at Greenwood Close Community Hall, Greenwood Close, Prescot, L34 2SL • Tuesdays, 6pm-8pm, starting from January 25th at Arts & Health Centre for Learning, Seel Road, Huyton, L36 6DG • Tuesdays, 5.30pm-7.30pm, starting from 1st February at New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road Halewood, L26 1TT For more information, or to book your place on the programme, please contact Paula Thomas on 0151 285 6016.

ARE YOU LIVING WITH A LONG TERM HEALTH CONDITION? Do you have a long-term health condition? If so you could improve your quality of life by attending a FREE programme designed for people, including carers, living with a long-term illness.

The Expert Patient Programme (EPP) aims to help people with longterm conditions find ways to manage their illness more positively and improve their quality of life.

Organised by Knowsley Health & Wellbeing, the programme is split into two courses: one of those living with long-term health conditions; and one specifically for carers who will benefit from a course specifically designed to support them to manage their daily responsibilities.

The courses run once a week for six weeks. Each two and a half hour session gives practical skills on managing illnesses on a day to day basis and the chance to meet and share experiences with like minded people.

For more information, or to register for a course in your local area, call the Engagement and Involvement Team on 0151 244 3457.

In conjunction with

CANCER iVAN SAVES LIVES IN KNOWSLEY

A visit to the Cancer iVAN really could save your life! iVAN staff picked up possible cancer symptoms in more than 60 Knowsley people who visited the van during 2010, and were able to refer these people to their GP for investigation.

This is on top of the more than 3100 Knowsley people who benefited from information and advice from the Cancer iVAN over the past 12 months.

Knowsley Health & Wellbeing commissions the van to visit different areas of Knowsley twice a month providing advice and support to local people about any aspect of cancer and cancer prevention.

No appointment is necessary and people can talk to one of the Cancer Information Specialists or a Cancer Specialist Nurse face-to-face. It’s free and completely confidential.

Ann Turtle, Knowsley Macmillan Information and Support Coordinator said: “Sometimes people can be reluctant to go to their GP about symptoms they may have, or they may not realise that these symptoms really do need to be checked out. iVAN is able to take information and advice about cancer out into the heart of our local communities and it gives people a chance to talk to the nurses on board about anything which may be worrying them. The staff can explain the signs and symptoms of different cancers, so local people have the information they need first hand.”

The Cancer iVAN will next be in Knowsley in February 2011, dates and locations will be advertised closer to the time.

People who need help or advice about cancer, can also attend the Knowsley Cancer Information and Support Service (KCISS) drop in sessions held across the borough: • The One Stop Shop, Halewood, every Monday 10am – 3pm • Lyndale, Cancer Support Group, Huyton, every Tuesday 10am – 3pm • The One Stop, Kirkby, every Wednesday

10am – 3pm KCISS is a free, friendly, confidential service and provides information and support to anyone affected by, or living with, cancer. The service can be used at any time from diagnosis, during treatment, or even after treatment has finished.

Under the NHS Knowsley and Knowsley Council ‘Know Cancer in Knowsley’ scheme, all Knowsley libraries have special areas dedicated to cancer information materials which are free to borrow for all Knowsley residents.

FORUM FOR PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS AND THEIR CARERS If you have experienced mental health problems, or care for someone who has, you are invited to attend the Knowsley Mental Health Service User and Carer Forum.

The forum meets six times a year at the River Alt Resource Centre in Huyton. The next meetings will be held: • Tuesday February 1st, 12.30pm to 3.30pm • Monday March 14th, 12pm to 3pm.

The Forum is a chance for people to talk about mental health issues and to ask questions of mental health service managers or partner organisations. It is also a chance to hear the latest news about mental health related services, and to make services aware of the issues being faced by people with mental health problems and their carers.

The meetings are relaxed and informal and are run by Knowsley Health & Wellbeing’s Engagement & Involvement Team. Everyone who has experienced mental health problems, or who cares for someone who has, is welcome to attend.

The forum includes guest speakers, discussion around the speaker’s topic, an open forum question time and updates on mental health issues. Lunch is provided.

For more information contact the Engagement and Involvement Team on 0151 244 3456 or email Mike.Tiernan@knowsley.nhs.uk

The Challenge January 2011

GET ‘ENGAGED’ THIS VALENTINES DAY! People in Halewood can win great prizes this Valentines Day just by going to see the Knowsley Health & Wellbeing Engagement and Involvement Team.

The Engagement Team hold events across the borough to share plans for new services, understand local people’s experiences of using Knowsley’s services, and to hear firsthand from the public about what needs improving.

The team will be at the Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive on Monday February 14th from 10am till 4pm.

The event will give people the chance to have their say about Knowsley’s Health & Wellbeing services and access information about health and wellbeing. People will also be able to get advice and support about local services and get involved with volunteering opportunities by becoming a Community Champion.

There will be a free prize draw as well as the chance to play the ‘Wheel of Good Fortune’ to win on the spot prizes.

This is the first of a series of public events the Engagement Team will be holding during 2011.

The Team will also be visiting local community groups to discuss health issues and hear local people’s views on the Government’s plans to reform the NHS, including proposals to transfer responsibility for Public Health from the NHS to local councils.

Feedback from these meetings will be used to inform decisions about local services, so please take the opportunity to have YOUR say about YOUR services.

For more information about upcoming events, dates and venues, or to find out how you can have your say and get involved, contact the Knowsley Health & Wellbeing Engagement and Involvement Team on 0151 244 34 57.

YOUR CHANCE TO HAVE A SAY ON HEALTH SERVICES! What do you think about health services in your area?

What’s good, what’s bad, what needs improving?

If you live in Knowsley and would like a say in how local health services operate you can attend one of the monthly Health Forums which are held across the borough.

The forums aim to give local people an opportunity to express their views, concerns, experiences and suggestions about health services in order to improve the services offered by Knowsley Health & Wellbeing.

The forums also help to increase local people’s knowledge about health issues.

Forum dates for 2011 are: Halewood St Mary’s Care Centre, Hillingden Avenue, Halewood L26 9TY 1.30pm – 3.30pm January – No Health Forum Friday 4th February Friday 4th March Friday 1st April Friday 6th May Friday 3rd June Huyton Main Hall, Knowsley Council for Voluntary Service, Nutgrove Villa, 1 Griffiths Road, Huyton L36 6NA 1pm – 2.30pm January – No Health Forum Friday 11th February Friday 11th March

Friday 8th April Friday 13th May Friday 10th June Kirkby Meeting Room 1, Kirkby One Stop Shop, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby, L32 1TX 10am – 12pm Friday 21st January Friday 18th February – Venue: Centre 63 Old Hall Lane, Kirkby L32 5TH Friday 18th March April – No Health Forum Friday 20th May Friday 17th June Prescot, Whiston and Cronton Bryer Road Community Centre, Bryer Road, Prescot, L35 5DW 1pm – 3pm Friday 28th January Friday 25th February Friday 25th March April – No Health Forum Friday 27th May Friday 24th June The Community Health Forums are relaxed and informal and everyone is welcome to attend. Light refreshments are available.

For more information contact Joanne Cotter on 0151 244 4520.

DOCTOR CHRIS With Dr Chris Mimnagh Knowsley Health & Wellbeing Medical Director

Blood Pressure: Know Your Numbers!

Do you know your numbers? No, not your lottery numbers (although they’re important too!) I’m talking about blood pressure.

A healthy blood pressure is anything under 140/90. It tends to rise as we get older – not because it should – but because we don’t always maintain a healthy lifestyle. If your numbers are rising, New Year is an ideal time to take stock and get them back on track.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of strokes and heart attacks and can also leave you at risk of dementia and kidney and eye problems.

And if you have other health conditions, like diabetes or high cholesterol, high blood pressure can raise your risk of health problems even more.

Finding out you’ve got high blood pressure can come as a bit of a shock, it usually has no symptoms, which is why so many people don’t know they have it!

The only way to know whether you have high blood pressure is to have a blood pressure check, which is quick, free and painless, and really could save your life.

You can get your blood pressure tested for free at your GP, local pharmacy or at a Knowsley at Heart health check, which are available for all Knowsley people aged over 40 years.

The good news is that if you do find out you have high

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blood pressure, a few easy steps can help to bring it down. And you don't have to wait until you have high blood pressure to make these healthy lifestyle changes!

1. Eat less salt Some people with high blood pressure may be able to avoid blood pressure medicines simply by cutting down on salt. Try not to add salt to food when cooking or at the table. When food shopping, check the labels and choose low-salt options when you can.

2. Eat more fruit and vegetables Fruit and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals and fibre to keep your body healthy. They also help to lower blood pressure, so aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.

3. Keep to a healthy weight Losing weight, if you need to, will help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of health problems. The best way to lose weight is to choose more low-fat and low-calorie foods, and increase your physical activity.

Set yourself realistic goals, make small changes to your eating habits and activity levels that you can stick to for life.

4. Drink less alcohol Drinking too much alcohol will raise your blood pressure over time. For good health we suggest women drink no more than 3 units of alcohol a day and men no more than 4. A unit is about half a pint of beer or cider, a small glass of wine, or a single pub measure of spirits.

5. Be more active Being active for 30 minutes five times a week can keep your heart healthy, and lower your blood pressure, but even a small amount of extra activity can help. Any activity that leaves you feeling slightly out of breath (except for smoking that is!) is ideal.

If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may also give you medication to help lower it. This treatment usually works very well and taking your tablets as prescribed, especially if you also make some healthy lifestyle changes, can help you to live a longer and healthier life.

So do yourself a favour, get your blood pressure tested regularly and encourage your family and friends to do the same!

To find your nearest Knowsley@Heart health check venue call 0800 073 0578.

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The Challenge January 2011

SECONDARY SUPPORT CENTRE RECEIVES OUTSTANDING GRADES

WOMEN HELP RAISE AWARENESS Staff from North Kirkby Children and Family Centres braved the chilly conditions recently to take part in an 11 mile sponsored walk to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

They raised funds to support the White Ribbon Campaign 2010 and the pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

Jo Lynott, Senior Family Support Officer and Domestic Abuse Champion for North Kirkby Children’s Centres said: “We wanted to highlight the campaign

across our area and what better way to do it than to take it on an 11 mile tour. When we spoke to others about it they were more than happy to get involved.”

Starting at the Star Children’s Centre in Towerhill, Kirkby, they completed their 11 mile walk in four hours finishing in Liverpool City Centre and raising over £350 for the campaign.

Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Social Inclusion Cllr Jackie Harris said: “It was great to see staff and parents supporting the

White Ribbon Campaign on Merseyside. If we can raise just one persons awareness of the violence against women and girls issue then this is a positive thing; but this group have achieved much more than this by literally taking the message across the city.”

Staff, carers, parents, children and babies from Little Gems Nursery and Children’s Centre also made a ‘Hands are not for hurting’ banner using their handprints to further highlight the campaign.

The Huyton Suite Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience Includes a three course meal & two hour show Wed 26 & Thur 27 January, £35

Big Baboon Comedy Club Mitch Benn, MC Trevor Lock, Brendan Riley & Kev Hampson “Irreverent, inventive and most importantly hilarious” Liverpool Daily Post

Fri 28 January, £15 inc hot supper

Valentine’s Cabaret Night Three course meal with bottle of wine, plus live music and disco Sat 19 February, £39 for two

St Patrick’s Cabaret Night Irish stew, live Irish music and disco Sat 19 March, £10

Tickets: 0151 443 3761 www.WeGotTickets.com The Huyton Suite, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD

Alt Bridge Secondary Support Centre in Huyton, which caters for secondary age pupils with complex needs in Knowsley, has been judged as outstanding in a recent Ofsted inspection.

In addition to the overall effectiveness being judged on outstanding, below are some of the other areas that were also outstanding: • The capacity for sustained improvement • The extent to which pupils feel safe • The extent to which pupils contribute to the school and wider community • The extent of pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development • The extent to which the curriculum meets pupils’ needs • The effectiveness of care, guidance and support • The effectiveness of leadership and management.

Headteacher Mr Barry Kerwin said: “The outcome is testament to the significant effort and hard work from everybody associated with Alt Bridge. I would like once again to thank staff, governors, parents and pupils for their contribution. The whole school community should be justifiably proud of our collective achievement, which officially recognises that provision for youngsters at Alt Bridge is outstanding.”

The inspection report for Alt Bridge Secondary Support Centre can be viewed at www.ofsted.gov.uk

SOME FRESH BASIL WITH YOUR DINNER? Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience Ever wondered what it would be like to dine at the Fawlty Towers Hotel?

Fans of the cult TV show will have a chance to find out this month as the international hit dinner theatre show Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience comes to Knowsley for the first time.

On Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 January at the Huyton Suite diners can enter the world of snobbish, manic Basil, his domineering wife Sybil and the hopeless, language-challenged waiter Manuel.

It takes a lot of courage for performers to take on the roles created and made famous by John Cleese, Prunella Scales and Andrew Sachs in the wildly popular television series Fawlty Towers, but Interactive Theatre Australia is now in its 12th year of performing the well-loved David Sweetman as Basil and Blair characters.

Martin as Manuel The team have sold out venues all round the UK, including the last three years at the Edinburgh Festival, and have won rave reviews for heaping fun and abuse (and occasionally service) on thousands of diners.

The show includes a three-course meal, served in inimitable Faulty style as bemused guests asking Manuel for an ‘ice bucket’ end up with a ‘nice bucket’ and a simple procedure like opening a bottle of wine can become a huge drama.

Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience is on Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 January. Basil will be welcoming people for pre-dinner drinks at 7pm and the meal and two-hour show starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £35 per person and are available from the Huyton Suite, Poplar Bank, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD, telephone 0151 443 3761 or online at www.WeGotTickets.com

The Challenge January 2011

Shop Local Potential4Skills Want to update your skills in English or Math’s? What about doing a computer course to update your skills?

Come and talk to our Friendly team at Potential4Skills.

With warnings of global warming almost constantly in the headlines, this offers the ideal opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint.

Local businesses often stock a high percentage of locally sourced goods and products, reduce the need for long car and bus journeys, and are convenient for all especially elderly, vulnerable, disabled and young people.

Other plus points include a more personal shopping experience, more direct and responsive relationships with customers, high standards of customer care and service, generous support for local charities and community events, and help in maintaining private, voluntary and public sector services.

0151 329 2116 All courses fully accredited

ROCKPORT • BENCH • CK

contrary, shopping locally can be the most eco-friendly option, while helping to keep your own communities vibrant and alive.

Knowsley aims to raise awareness of the need to back local businesses, to preserve the unique character and economic viability of the town centres for generations to come.

Towns in the Knowsley still have an excellent range of small, many of them family-run, shops, but they need local people's support, if they are to continue to thrive in the future.

Many people mistakenly believe that shopping locally costs more, but if factors such as travel, time and costs in transporting larger items home - are taken into account, the overall cost of buying locally is often much lower.

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Consumers across the Knowsley Borough are being urged to Shop Smart, Shop Local in a concerted campaign to support the local businesses, breathe new life into the Knowsley economy - and do their bit to combat global warming.

Shopkeepers are keen to counter common misconceptions that local shopping is more expensive or offers less choice. On the

9

HENLEYS • G-STAR • TIMBERLAND • CK

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WHILE-U-WAIT Heels • Soles • Cylinder Keys • UPVC Keys • Mortice Keys • Car Keys • Laces • Polishes • Sprays • UGG Boot Cleaner • Shoe Dyes • Padlocks • Cylinder Locks • Mortice Locks • Watch Batteries • Straps • Free Fitting

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Village Electrics Established 20 years 0151 449 3456 Fantastic array of top quality lampshades and lighting at fantastic prices. Spares for washing machines, driers, lawnmowers, firebars stockists.

Not forgetting vacuum cleaners, belts, filters etc and vacuum bags of which we have over 400 different types in stock.

Brenda’s Diner Under new management Homemade: • Soups • Scouse • Chilli • Curry

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phone worldz huyton Unit 28 Lansdown Way Liverpool L36 9YB 0151 489 9458 • All mobile phone repairs • Mobile phone unlocks from just £5 • Laptop and PC repairs from £35 • Laptop LCD repairs from £80 • Game console repairs from £70 • All Apple repairs from just £21 • All chargers from £6.99 • Accessories from £2.99 Bring this advert with you and receive a FREE sim card with your UNLOCK! network of your choice

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0151 482 6277 Clothing Alterations and Repair Ironing Service & Dry Cleaning Same day service most days for £1 extra Shorten curtains up to 70” wide £7 over 70” wide £10 lined extra £2. Curtains hemmed from bottom £15. All prices are estimated, just ask for help

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Kirkby Blinds Slats from £1.00 Same Day Service 0151 449 0049 Unit 31-33 See our advert on Page 4

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Village Barbers Nikkis Dress Designs Made to measure designer Ladies wear Special Occasions, Evening, Proms and Races. Also ready to wear Collection available 0777 3347956 Facebook: nikkidresses

Traditional and modern styles Full disabled access Proprietor: Tony McKenny 33 years experience Cuts from £4.00

10

The Challenge January 2011

Not making claims.

Just winning them.

At Canter Levin & Berg we like to let our results do the talking; after all, with over 40 years’ success handling accident at work claims, we must be doing something right. Highly professional but friendly and straightforward, our approach is built on a belief in providing each client with one dedicated point of contact, allowing us to really understand your situation, and you to stay fully informed at every stage of the case’s progress.

For further information, call Mark Flynn on

0151 292 8181or visit: www.canter-law.co.uk

NEW YEAR QUIZ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

What is the slowest known mammal?

Which is the world's oldest occupied castle?

Which country just released previously secret UFO reports?

Who was the first woman to swim the English Channel, on 26 August 1926?

The shortest verse in The King James Version of the Bible has two words, what are they?

One of the literary epics of which Asian country has been translated into English for the first time?

Which is the rarest type of shrew in Britain?

On a typewriter, what does %$+*& multiplied by £ equal?

What will Spain ban from 2 January 2011?

What is a quantum?

The Sri Lankan government just stepped in to tackle a shortage or what?

Why is the statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square electrified?

Stray Bullet has won first prize at the Dubai International Film Festival. Where is the film set?

Who wears the most famous Fisherman's Ring?

Glamorous Russian spy Anna Chapman just got a top role in what?

In 1957 Russia launched a satellite carrying a dog. What was the dog called?

Which European country just enacted a National Wild Boar Control Plan, to stop a rising boar population?

Who was the first black player invited to Wimbledon?

Who played Hawkeye in M.A.S.H.?

The Indian government just banned the export of what?

The CIA has photos of the 'Ararat Anomaly'. What is it supposed to be?

Traditionally, how many beans make five?

Present day taxicabs trace their origin to an English royal charter in which century?

Which is London's oldest restaurant?

Who owned the chemical plant that killed thousands in Bhophal, India, in 1984?

For what did Austrian cleric Gregor Mendel lay the scientific foundations in his garden?

Who played Mr. Bridger in the first Italian Job? Which team sport has the biggest pitch?

All Viking ships had their steering boards on the same side - which?

Mother of five Lisa Geraldini's picture hangs in the Louvre. By what name is she better known?

What is the highest capital in the world?

Which European country regards itself as hexagonal?

Which is the oldest air force?

What is the name of the stretch of water between Denmark and Sweden?

Where are the Doldrums?

What is the difference between a pure malt and a single malt whiskey?

Why was the 'Mad Hatter' in Alice in Wonderland mad?

Who is generally credited with writing the tune Greensleeves?

What is the most remote heavenly body visible to the naked eye?

Californian Samuel Sevian was just made a chess master by the US Chess Federation. What's special?

What does the name ‘Pakistan’ mean?

How many flights did the Wright brother's Flyer make on 17 December 1903?

Which metal melts at -38ºC? Psycho was the first Hollywood film to show what?

Who is generally and wrongly credited with the invention of the flushing lavatory?

What is dihydrogen oxide more commonly called?

Who is the World's longest reigning and living queen?

Which was the first African country to gain independence?

What is the traditional main constituent of the artist's watercolour Indian Yellow?

Which composer wrote the Rite of Spring?

On which London street does traffic drive on the right?

Which board game originated in ancient India?

In English, rather than American, what is the difference between licence and license?

What is vexilography?

How many verses are there in the UK National Anthem?

In cooking what temperature is Gas Mark 6 equal to?

How many counties are there in the UK? What is the world's most dangerous animal?

Who won the first Oxford v Cambridge boat race in 1829?

What have polar bears just lost?

The Challenge January 2011

WHAT’S ON AT THE KNOWSLEY SUITES LIVE AND LOCAL Tickets available from Huyton Civic Suite, Poplar Bank, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD, tel 0151 443 3761 or the Kirkby Civic Suite, Norwich Way, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby, L32 8XY, tel 0151 443 4063 or online where advertised from www.WeGotTickets.com Wed 12 January Weekly Tea Dance 1pm to 4pm, £1.70 including tea/coffee and biscuits. Huyton Suite. Ballroom and sequence dancing to live music.

Friday 14 January Monthly Sequence Dance 8pm £5 Kirkby Suite Hosted by Dave Bullen. All are welcome.

Tickets available on the door on the night.

Wed 19 January Weekly Tea Dance 1pm to 4pm, £1.70 including tea/coffee and biscuits. Huyton Suite. Ballroom and sequence dancing to live music.

Wed 26 January Weekly Tea Dance 1pm to 4pm, £1.70 including tea/coffee and biscuits. Huyton Suite. Ballroom and sequence dancing to live music.

Wed 26 & Thur 27 January Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience 7pm. £35 Huyton Suite Ever wondered what it would be like to dine at the Fawlty Towers Hotel?

Fans of the cult TV show will have their chance this month as the international hit dinner theatre show Faulty Towers, the Dining Experience comes to Knowsley for the first time. Diners can enter the world of snobbish, manic Basil, his domineering wife Sybil and the hopeless, languagechallenged waiter Manuel. Interactive Theatre Australia are now in their 12th year of performing the well-loved characters and have sold out venues all round the UK. The show includes a threecourse meal, served in inimitable Faulty style. Basil will be welcoming people for pre-dinner drinks at 7pm and the meal and two-hour show starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £35 per person and are available from the Huyton Suite, Poplar Bank, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD, telephone 0151 443 3761 or online at www.WeGotTickets.com.

Fri 28 January Big Baboon Comedy Club Huyton Suite, £15 including hot supper Doors 7pm. Hotpot served 7.30pm, show starts 8.30pm. The post Christmas slump has never been so much fun thanks to the

launch of Knowsley’s Big Baboon Comedy Club.

Headliner is fabulous Scouserati Mitch Benn - a regular writer and performer on Radio 4’s The Now Show and Radio 2’s It's Been a Bad Week. Mitch also has his own Radio 4 series Mitch Benn's Crimes Against Music and is a familiar face from BBC1's The One Show as the writer and arranger of The Complaints Choir.

MC is Trevor Lock (“Strangely charming and absolutely entertaining” The Independent), while Brendan Riley (“Irreverent, inventive and most importantly hilarious”’ Liverpool Daily Post) and the up and coming Kevin Hampson (winner Rawhide Raw 2009) keep the laughs flowing.

Tickets are available from the Huyton Suite, Poplar Bank, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD, telephone 0151 443 3761 or online at www.WeGotTickets.com.

Thurs 3 February Chinese New Year Lunch 12.30pm to 2pm £5.95 Huyton Suite Celebrate the start of the Year of the Rabbit with a two course Chinese lunch in the Huyton Suite Gallery. Advance booking necessary. Tel 0151 443 3761.

Tuesday 8 February Blood Donors Session 12pm to 9pm Huyton Suite Although this session is walk in or by appointment, if your time is limited we recommend you book an appointment at www.blood.co.uk or on 0300 123 23 23.

Wed 9 February Weekly Tea Dance 1pm to 4pm, £1.70 including tea/coffee and biscuits. Huyton Suite Ballroom and sequence dancing to live music.

Saturday 12 February Saraswati Puja 11am to 6pm Kirkby Suite Merseyside and North West Bengali Association’s day of worship in honour of Saraswati, the goddess of learning, music and the arts. Entry is free and all are welcome.

Sat 12 February Valentine’s Dinner Dance 7.30pm. £39 per couple. Huyton Suite Wine and dine a loved one then dance the night away to live music and a disco.

Tickets include a three course meal and a bottle of house wine. Book at the Huyton Suite on 0151 443 3761 or online at www.WeGotTickets.com

Making an impact after a collision.

When it comes to road traffic accident claims, no law firm makes a bigger impact than Canter Levin & Berg.

With over 40 years’ experience in the field, our friendly but highly professional approach is built on a belief in providing each client with one dedicated point of contact throughout the claim process, allowing us to really get to know your situation, and you to stay fully informed at every stage of the case’s progress.

For further information, call Mark Flynn on

0151 292 8181or visit: www.canter-law.co.uk

11

1. The three-toed sloth; 2. Windsor; 3. New Zealand, the reports cover the period from 1954 to 2009; 4. Gertrude Ederle, who was 19 at the time; 5. Jesus wept. It is John, chapter 11, verse 35; 6. The Thai Tale of Khun Chang Khun Phaen. It is one of the country's most famous stories of love and war; 7. The Common Shrew; 8. 54 + 87 = 141 x 3 = 423; 9. Smoking in any enclosed public place ie bars and on tv broadcasts, near hospitals or in school playgrounds; 10. The smallest measurable unit of energy, or anything. So a quantum leap is strictly the smallest possible step; 11. Coconuts; 12.

To keep pigeons off; 13. Lebanon. It is about a young woman forced to choose between her family and her fiancé; 14. The Pope; 15. Russia's ruling party's youth wing, Molodaya Gvardiya; 16. Laika; 17. France. Hunters there shot 560,000 boar last year, 10 times more than 30 years ago; 18. Althea Gibson; she won the women's singles championship in 1957; 19. Alan Alder; 20. Onions, a rain based-crop failure has caused a national shortage; 21. Noah's Ark; 22. Two beans, a bean and a half, half a bean and a bean; 23. The twelfth; 24. Rules, in Maiden Lane, Soho, founded in 1798; 25. Union Carbide. Legal disputes over compensation are still going on; 26. Genetics; 27. Noel Coward; 28. Polo; 29. The right or starboard side. They docked on the other or port side; 30. The Mona Lisa; 31. La Paz, Bolivia; 32. France; 33. The Royal Air Force; 34.

The Kattergat; 35. In the Indian Ocean; 36. Single malt is whiskey from one batch.

Pure malt comes from more than one batch; 37. Because hat-makers used to use mercury, which causes brain damage and a form of dementia; 38. King Henry VIII; 39. The Andromeda Galaxy; 40. Sevian is nine years old; 41. Land of the fair people; 42. Three; 43. Mercury; 44. A lavatory flushing; 45. Thomas Crapper. A London plumber, he did invent the ballcock and popularised the flushing lavatory; 46. Water; its formula is H20; 47. Queen Elisabeth II, who succeeded to the throne on 6 February 1952; 48. Ghana, on 6 March 1957; 49. Indian cow's urine; 50. Igor Stravinsky, 51. Savoy Place; 52.

Chess; 53. Licence is a noun and license is a verb; 54. The study of flags; 55. Five; 56.

200oC; 57. 63; 58. Malarial parasites of the genus Plasmodium, carried by mosquitoes kill some two million people a year; 59. Oxford; 60. ‘Endangered’ species listing by the US, they are now simply ‘threatened’ and have less legal protection.

Quiz Answers:

12

The Challenge January 2011

CHRISTMAS BIKES FOR LOCAL CHILDREN Christmas came early to Eastcroft Park Primary school in Kirkby and for local police officer Robby ‘the Bobbie’ Pritchard, thanks to the generosity of Goodrich Actuation Systems of Huyton.

Employees at the site were asked to nominate local children’s charities or schools where children would benefit from a donation of bikes this Christmas.

Following the schools recent award of the ‘Bike It’ status and installation of a

bike shed, Goodrich was keen to support the efforts to encourage pupils to cycle to school instead of being driven there.

Joe Kendrick, Goodrich’s Operations Manager, was at the school to hand over 10 bicycles to Eastcroft’s Chair of governors John Barry; with Santa also there to oversee the operation.

John commented: “On behalf of all the staff, governors, helpers and pupils

Pupils at Eastcroft Park Primary jump for joy as they receive their bikes. Pictured with John Barry, Chair of Governors, Joe Kendrick, Goodrich’s Operations Manager and staff from Hobson’s Cycles

at Eastcroft Park I would like to say a massive thank you to Joe and all his colleagues in Goodrich”.

“By giving the gift of a bicycle we are not only supporting healthy play, but also increasing punctuality and attendance at school as the pupils love to cycle in; not to mention putting huge smiles on 10 faces”.

Joe added: “Eastcroft’s ‘Bike It’ project is just one of several good

causes Goodrich Actuation Systems are supporting this festive season including a local community project in Croxteth and Norris Green, we presented bikes to PC Pritchard in view of the tremendous work he does with youngsters in the Croxteth and Norris Green communities and Robby and his partners will be identifying those children most deserving of these fantastic gifts.”

Pictured are Gerry Slinger, Goodrich’s Plant Manager, Daniel Jardine, Hobson Cycles, Robby Pritchard, Jay Hobson, Director Hobson Cycles and Paul Lennon, Goodrich’s Vice President

Othello’s

Experience the taste of Greece Fantastic Authentic Greek Cuisine in a warm and friendly family restaurant Extensive menu offering an excellent selection of fish, meat and vegetarian meals Fully licensed Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 4pm-11.30pm Sundays 2pm-10.00pm

105 Gateacre Park Drive, Liverpool L25 1PD 0151 280 7700 www.othellos.co.uk

The Challenge January 2011

AMAZING TOY DONATION FOR YOUNG PATIENTS

Paul Rigby climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa in October 2010 and with the some of the money raised, he bought a mountain of toys for the children at Whiston Hospital.

Paul was inspired to raise funds for the Trust after his 11-year-old daughter Jessica was diagnosed by Dr Ijaz Ahmad with a blood platelet disorder, eight years ago. Jessica is a regular patient under the care of Dr Ahmad and the Children’s and Young People’s team at Whiston Hospital.

Paul raised over £3,500 for a number of good causes and is still collecting money. From these funds he spent over £2,000 on new toys for children of all ages to play with whilst in hospital, including

two X Box consoles.

Paul said: “I hadn’t even walked up a hill before taking on Kilimanjaro, but I really wanted to give something back to the hospital for the way the staff looked after Jessica. They have been fantastic and we have every faith in them. I am planning another fundraising event next year and would like to thank all the local businesses and friends for their support and generous donations.”

Dr Abubaker Elbadri, Consultant Paediatrician said: “Play therapy is very important to assessing how a child’s treatment is progressing and these new toys will help children to feel more at home. We are very thankful to Paul for going to such great lengths to make this amazing donation and would also like to thank all those people who sponsored him.”

CARERS DO YOU USE YOUR OWN CAR FOR WORK? WANT TO GET A TAX REFUND? I CAN HELP YOU CLAIM UP TO 6 YEARS OVERPAID TAX BACK! FRIENDLY, EFFICIENT, PERSONAL RING ME NOW Left: Dr Abubaker Elbadri with Paul and Jessica Rigby, together with members of staff on Ward 4F and just some of the toys Paul bought

13

0151 474 4437 or Email your contact number ahhoare@hotmail.co.uk

14

The Challenge January 2011

KCC LIVE SCOOP NORTH WEST RADIO ACADEMY AWARD The staff and volunteers of Huyton-based radio station, 99.8FM KCC Live, are celebrating after being announced winners of the Radio Academy’s Nations & Regions award for the North West.

This prestigious award gives recognition to radio stations with a Total Survey Area of under 300,000 and qualifies the winning station for entry into the Sony Radio Academy Awards 2011 ‘Station of the Year’.

BBC Radio Manchester presenter, Simon Nicks, hosted the awards, which was held at the BBC Studios in December. The evening was a fun-filled night and alongside the award giving, all entrants took part in The Radio Academy’s Annual Christmas Quiz.

The announcement was made that KCC Live had won, beating every other small station in the North West of England and the Isle of Man, following a unanimous decision from the judging panel. This is a fantastic achievement for the station, which is run almost entirely by volunteers. It means they can now go on to prepare for the National Sony Academy Awards, which will be held in May 2011.

Chair of the Radio Academy North West branch John Ryan said: “KCC Live displays absolute passion in everything they do. Rough and ready at times - but everything is spot on their target audience and delivered with genuine verve. A real joy to hear so many people having so much fun. KCC Live’s breakfast show in particular felt just right for their student audience. This was the station with real promise”.

Delighted Station Manager, Phil Smith said: “This is a fantastic achievement for KCC Live after just one year as a community radio station, and is a perfect way of recognising all the hard work the young volunteers have done since our launch. A massive thank you must also go to those who have supported us, especially all our listeners. This is a very proud moment for KCC Live”.

GOING FOR GOLD IN NATIONAL COMPETITION Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT) has struck gold in a nationwide search to find the best ‘grass roots’ housing and neighbourhood projects.

KHT is one of 12 winners who have each scooped up to £5,000 in HACT’s Golden Projects competition.

HACT – the housing action charity – launched the awards in June, inviting housing providers and community groups to submit bids for the cash to

help turn their ideas into reality.

KHT will use its prize to set up Eco Teams. This new initiative will support and advise tenants on how to reduce their carbon footprint and the amount they spend on energy, transport and food.

Louise Harris, Head of Social Responsibility at KHT, said: “We are so proud to have been chosen as one of the Golden Projects.

“Our idea to develop Eco Teams has obviously stood out for HACT, and the green agenda is something we are very committed to.

“We want to save our customers money on their bills as well as promote awareness of saving energy and the benefits to the environment of doing so.

“We can’t wait to get this Golden Project off the ground.”

Kayleigh quit, because we didn’t. www.stopsmoking.org.uk

Call 0800 195 2131 Quit smoking for yourself, not by yourself.

to find your nearest drop-in centre

The Challenge January 2011

•

Want to start your own business in Knowsley and looking for free support and grant funding?

•

Starting a new social enterprise or community interest company in Knowsley?

•

Looking for affordable studio space in Knowsley for a creative business?

•

Have you been trading for more than 2 years and are now ready to grow or diversity your business?

To start your new small business contact Knowsley’s Fresh Start and Business Liaison Team on

Tel: 477 4000 www.myfreshstart.co.uk Fresh Start Stop Press Interested in Business workshops? If you are a Knowsley business woman and started trading after January 2008 The Women’s Organisation is offering a master class on how to use Facebook.

To maximise your business success and take part in a free networking lunch on 24 January at Derby Lodge, Huyton between 12 – 2pm you must reserve your place. Call them direct on 0151 236 6601.

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The Challenge January 2011

PUPILS “SEND A COW” TO AFRICA Primary school children have helped farmers in Africa to buy a cow and other livestock through generous fundraising.

Pupils at Longview CP School, Huyton, have been working hard over the last few weeks and have managed to raise an impressive £500 for the “Send a Cow” charity.

A representative from “Send a Cow” visited the school earlier in the year to tell the children all about the charity and what it does. After the visit, both the pupils and teachers were keen to raise funds for the good cause, and a brainstorm of ideas immediately followed.

“We wanted to get the pupils involved as much as possible, and one child suggested holding an activity day,” explains head teacher Keith Skinner.

“The children enjoyed learning about the charity and how important the work is they do to help those who are less fortunate,” he said.

A cooking class, mask and model making, and array of dance and sport activities were just some of the things the pupils and teachers got up to during the special ‘activity day’ to raise cash for the charity.

The pupils also raised funds by bringing in and covering outline drawings of cows with 10p coins.

In addition, local reverend and school governor, Rev Clive Doran, visited the school and led a special harvest assembly based on the Send a Cow charity, to further educate the children about the work they do.

Back left: Rev Clive Doran and head teacher Keith Skinner; Front (L – R): Sophie Barry, Jak Bunting, Faye Kerwin, Amiee Bryan and Rhys Bushall

Send a Cow is just the latest in a list of charities the school has been involved in fundraising for. Jeans for Genes, Children in Need and Water Aid are just a few of the national and international charities who have benefited from the generosity of the school.

“We make it a priority to teach our pupils the importance of charity and to promote caring and consideration for others. We demonstrate this through our charity fundraising activities and incorporate it into our PSHCE lessons,” added Mr Skinner.

MARATHON RUN

Tom Fitzpatrick an IT Taskforce Engineer recently raised over £2,000 for the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Whiston Hospital after he ran the Dublin Marathon.

Dubliner, Tom took to the streets of the ‘Fair City’ (Dublin) to run his first ever marathon in his home town, which he completed in just 4 hours 38 minutes.

Tom said: “My daughter, Aoife was born premature at 36 weeks and spent three weeks being cared for by the staff at Whiston Hospital and I wanted to do something to help other families and their babies born prematurely. I would like to sincerely thank all those people who sponsored me.”

Sally Duce, Directorate Manager for the Children’s and Young People’s Department said: “On behalf of the Special Care Baby Unit, I would like to thank Tom and his sponsors for this fantastic donation. This money will be put towards buying a new piece of equipment, which will help babies who have breathing problems.”

The Challenge January 2011

17

THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE CONTACTING LOCAL NHS WITH COLDS AND FLU A senior doctor has urged people to think carefully before going to hospital or to their GP with coughs and colds.

Seasonal flu and colds are on the increase throughout the UK, and Merseyside has seen a big rise in the numbers attending its emergency department and urgent care centres and calling GP out of hours with symptoms.

The number of calls to GP out of hours services from people who mainly have cold symptoms mean that people who are seriously ill and need treatment may struggle to get through on the phone.

North West paramedics Ruth Thomas and Mandy McFarlane and hospital Consultants Simon Tucker and Nigel Kidner have taken part in a series of short films, to give local people advice on how to self-care for minor illnesses including flu, coughs and colds. These can be viewed on the Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/nhsnwchoosew ell and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/nwnhs Dr John Hussey, Chair of Liverpool Primary Care Trust’s Professional Executive Committee (PEC) and himself a GP, said: “Normally healthy adults should stay at home and combat their flu and cold symptoms with over-the-counter remedies from the pharmacist, rather than going to hospital or calling their GP.

“By attending GP surgeries and A&E departments patients risk passing illness to vulnerable people.

He said: “We always see a rise in flu and colds at this time of year. Flu and the common cold are viral illnesses and the first line of treatment is rest, paracetamol and fluids. This advice is also available on the NHS Choices website and by calling NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.”

Symptoms of flu include: • sudden fever (a temperature of 38°C/100.4°F or above) • dry, chesty cough

• headache • tiredness • chills • aching muscles • limb or joint pain • diarrhoea or stomach upset • sore throat • runny or blocked nose • sneezing • loss of appetite, and • difficulty sleeping Dr Hussey repeated the message that anyone who is in an ‘at risk’ group should take up the offer of a seasonal flu vaccine

this year.

Dr Hussey said: “For the majority of normally health adults who catch the flu, it will be unpleasant and inconvenient, but they will begin to feel better within four to five days. If symptoms are not getting better, patients should call their GP for further advice, but again they should not visit the surgery, as they risk passing on their infection to vulnerable people. If you need to pick up medication, including antivirals, ask a friend, family member or neighbour to pick them up for you.

“People with chronic lung, heart, liver, kidney or neurological problems, as well as those with weakened immune systems, can become seriously ill, as well as over-65s and pregnant women. They should telephone their GP if they think they have flu-symptoms.

“These people should make sure they have the flu vaccine to protect themselves. If they have not yet had the jab, they should contact their GP to make an appointment as soon as possible.”

“Children under 5, with flu like symptoms should be assessed by a health care professional.”

The NHS is also urging those with cold and flu symptoms not to visit relatives in hospitals or care homes, due to the risk that they will spread germs to vulnerable people.

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18 The Challenge January 2011

Lifestyle

Fashion • Health • Food • Interests - we have it all

Spring It’s time for a clean fresh new look Colours As we move in to the second quarter of the year, it's time to freshen up your home with a good old spring clean. The key home colour trends this season are light, bright strawberry shades which accent muted creams and beige sofas beautifully.

Add a touch of sorbet and ice limes, glacier blues and you'll be bang on trend with this seasons timeless and spiritual romantic look.

Fabrics Choose fabrics which have a high shine and transparency and not only will these be the perfect replication of the latest spring trend, but they will also reflect the spring sun as it streams through your windows.

Cost effective integration in to your home Use cushions and throws to cost effectively update your existing sofa ranges and buy new table linen and mats to do the same with your dining tables.

Finishing touches Finishing touches such as washing your windows, changing your curtains to light, floaty linens and cutting freshly blooming flowers from your garden for beautiful bright colours and a sweet, fresh fragrance flawlessly complete your fresh new look.

The Challenge January 2011

ChallengeFood

GOODBYE TO THE FOOD OF THE NOUGHTIES! As 2010 goes out in a blaze of turkey-stuffed glory it seems only fitting to take a moment to chart the ups and downs, foibles and frenzies, trends and travesties that marked the Noughties.

Frozen mash – Sales went through the roof when Delia wrote her 2008 book ‘How to cheat at Cooking’, which featured Aunt Bessie’s mash. The word ‘Delia’ entered the English Dictionary in 2001.

Cupcakes – Helped by Sex and the City, sales became unstoppable until being eclipsed by the sweet, petite macaroon.

Enchilada – Mexican restaurants are popping up faster than jumping beans, from Chilango and Chipotle to Wahaca.

Food bloggers – Love them or loathe them it seems they’re here to stay - and even cracking Hollywood. The film Julie & Julia was based on a blogger’s experience of cooking all the recipes in Julia Child’s book, ‘Mastering the Art of French Cooking’.

Grazing – AA Restaurant Guide’s head honcho, Simon Numphud, says: “As tasting menus and sharing plates rise in popularity, it’s the death of the threecourse meal”.

Happy chickens – Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall turned the country against battery farming in ‘Hugh’s Chicken Run’.

Jamie Oliver – Is there any stopping him? From Jamie’s Food Revolution USA to Jamie’s 30-Minute Meals here at home, the boy’s (still) on a roll.

Locally sourced food – Farmers’ markets are the foodie phenomenon of the past decade, as consumers want to limit their food miles and to know more about the provenance of their food.

Organic – this caught on in a big way in the early part of the decade but when the recession hit, sales suffered with only organic milk bucking the trend.

Sustainability – We’re into the S word now and restaurants have made it part of their ethos. Barny Haughton, founder of Bordeaux Quay restaurant in Bristol, says: ‘Caring about sustainability is the restaurant world’s way of saying it can do better in taking responsibility for energy consumption, food miles, water and waste.”

Trotters – And other cheap cuts of meat such as the now in-vogue pork belly. The recession has seen a return to the bits our grandparents used to eat, as we rediscover slower cooking methods that transform tougher cuts.

Underground restaurants – The rise of the private supper club and pop-up phenomenon, has seen home cooks opening up their living rooms to strangers.

Big-name chefs, too, set up shop, pop-up style, for limited engagements in unlikely places.

Venison – It’s healthy, sustainable and delicious and sales have soared.

Whoopie Pies – a cross between a pair of chocolate cookies and a cake sandwich, originally a treat baked by an Amish farmer’s wife for her husband’s lunchbox. He allegedly shouted – Whoopie!

And the future?

Food on the move – The USA may be the home of the gourmet food truck, but the trend is well and truly on the move here, with tech-savvy vendors alerting customers to their location using Twitter and Facebook.

Vegetarian innovation - We know we need to eat less meat and more vegetables so here’s room for more chefs to get creative with their carrots.

Korean cuisine – The next culinary trend.

It’s time to know your bibimbap from your bulgogi, as this spicy trend is red-hot.

NEW VENUE From Tuesday 11th January The Old School House St John’s Road, Huyton 6.30pm Jo 546 5213

Monday Huyton The Huycap Centre Rupert Road 6.00pm Joanne 254 1298 Tuesday Huyton St John’s Community Centre Manor Farm Road 6.30pm Jo 546 5213 Kirkby Centre 63 Old Hall Lane Next To St Chads 9.30am & 11.00am Eileen 548 0658 Speke The Metal Boxonions Sports And Social Club Speke Boulevard 5.00pm & 6.30pm Clare 07950 631858

Wednesday Prescot Prescot Leisure Centre Warrington Road 9.30am & 11.00am 4.30pm & 6.00pm Lynn 480 1665

Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church) Pilch Lane 9.30am & 4.30pm 6.00pm Julie 449 1074 Halewood The Arncliffe Centre Arncliffe Road Wednesday 6.30pm Lorraine 07889 161137 Huyton The British Legion Archway Road Opposite Old Asda Car Park 5.30pm & 7.00pm Lisa 01704 222988

Friday Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church), Pilch Lane 9.30am Julie 449 1074

Cronton Cronton Village Cronton Methodist Church Chapel Lane 5.00pm & 7.00pm Kate 495 3594

Saturday Huyton The Huycap Centre, Rupert Road 10.00am Joanne 254 1298

Thursday Huyton Yew Tree Health Centre 21 Berryford Road, off Finch Lane 6.00pm Jean 290 0034 Huyton The British Legion, Archway Road Opposite Old Asda Car Park 1.30pm & 6.00pm Lisa 01704 222988

19

20 The Challenge January 2011

ChallengeBusiness

Business Matters with Welcome to the second edition of business matters with Butterworth Barlow. This column provides general business advice and answers to your questions on a wide range of issues facing small businesses in Knowsley.

At Butterworth Barlow, our experienced Partners are happy to offer a free one hour consultation to all new and existing businesses in the area to discuss all of your business, tax or accounting needs.

Contact Us If you have a question for us or would like to arrange a meeting, then please email us at mail@butterworthbarlow.co.uk or call Barry or Gavin on 0151 493 9700.

Question I am thinking of starting a new business – should I set this up as a company?

Setting up as a new company is one structure for your new business, however operation as a sole trader or partnership should also be considered.

Companies have the advantage of limited liability for the directors and shareholders which means that debts of the company remain separate from the director/shareholder. This, in most cases, provides an element of protection if the company fails.

If structured correctly, companies can also offer many tax advantages dependant on expected profit levels, the number of owners involved and the amount you would like to take out of the business.

However there is more ‘red tape’ in operating as a company including complying with directors duties, maintaining statutory records (such as board minutes) and filing annual accounts with Companies House.

Operating as a sole trader or partnership reduces the ‘red tape’ and provides greater flexibility for drawing money out of the business.

Other factors such as pension arrangements, expected trading losses in early years and future plans for exiting the business need to be considered. Always seek professional advice at an early stage to assist you in making the right choice for the structure of your business.

WASTE MANAGEMENT COMPANY BUCKING THE TREND OF RECESSION North West based Environmental Controls are to double the size of their central operations opening a new site adjacent to their existing headquarters on the Knowsley Business Park creating additional jobs.

The waste management company will relocate their engineering division to a new site in Kitling Road and will double the size of their materials recycling facility.

The company also plans to establish an auction centre allowing members of the public to visit the site to purchase recycled and reusable goods.

The new site is expected to open early in 2011.

The investment is part of an ambitious plan for growth and more than doubles the company estate in Knowsley.

The expansion will provide valuable employment opportunities and is a welcome boost for the local economy.

Bill Shaw, Managing Director, who is overseeing the expansion of the company said: “against the background of the recession and economic challenges, it is great news to be able

to announce plans to double our presence in Knowsley and to announce the creation of new jobs.

“At Environmental Waste Controls we are passionate about recycling and unlike our competitors we do not send waste to landfill sites.

We believe waste is a valuable resource and our new facilities will help us increase recycling and reuse; benefitting the natural environment.”

Environmental Waste Controls Ltd bucking the trend of the recession.

The company returns some of the best waste recycling performance in the country often recycling in excess of 90% of waste at its municipal sites.

The company is also the market leader in compacting waste at source significantly reducing transportation costs and reducing the carbon footprint of waste disposal.

Unlike some of its competitors, Environmental Waste Controls does not own landfill sites that means the entire philosophy is to reuse or recycle waste.

The new site at Knowsley will be used to increase waste recycling and reuse.

6TH ANNUAL EMPLOYERS’ LUNCH AT KNOWSLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Disclaimer All advice given above is generic in nature. Professional advice should be sought in relation to your own individual circumstances.

For all your business needs contact the specialists Prescot House, 3 High Street, Prescot, L34 3LD Telephone: 0151 493 9700 Email: mail@butterworthbarlow.co.uk www.butterworthbarlow.co.uk

The annual Knowsley College Employer Lunch celebration was recently in the Expressions Restaurant at the Roby centre. Employers and partners, who all understood the value of learning, gathered together to celebrate another outstanding year of successful collaborative working.

The guest speaker, Lesley Martin-Wright, Chief Executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, congratulated the College on the high levels of support given to employers during a particularly challenging economic period. The College committed to continue its role to provide high quality training and skills for the benefit of employers and residents of Knowsley and the surrounding area, for only by investing in training and skills development will the local, regional and national economies be returned to sustainable growth.

The College offers a wide range of business solutions and welcomes enquiries from employers for training for their staff that can be fully funded or with the employers contributing for more bespoke work.

The Challenge January 2011

BIG BABOON COMEDY CLUB Merseyside’s newest comedy club is being launched at the Huyton Suite on Friday 28th January.

Named after some of Knowsley’s most famous entertainers – the safari park baboons - The Big Baboon Comedy Club’s opening night boasts one of the best line ups of comics on the circuit.

Headliner is fabulous Scouserati Mitch Benn, a regular writer and performer on Radio 4’s The Now Show and Radio 2’s It's Been a Bad Week.

Mitch also has his own Radio 4 series Mitch Benn's Crimes Against Music and is a familiar face from BBC1's The One Show as the writer and arranger of The Complaints Choir.

Compere is Trevor Lock (“Strangely charming and absolutely entertaining” The Independent), while Brendan Riley (“Irreverent, inventive and most importantly hilarious”’ Liverpool Daily Post) and the up and coming Kevin Hampson (Rawhide Raw winner 2010) will be keeping the laughs flowing.

Tickets cost £15 and include a hotpot served from 7.15pm (doors 7pm) to 8pm, and the show starts at 8.30pm.

Tickets are available from the Huyton Suite, Civic Way, Poplar Bank, Huyton L36 9GD, telephone 0151 443 3762 and online at www.wegottickets.com The club will run every month, with the second show already lined up for Friday 4th March and featuring comedy from Australian Colin Cole plus three other top standups.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR ROBY SIXTH FORM Roby Sixth Form (Knowsley Community College) held their annual Advanced Level Awards Evening recently.

Current and former students gathered at the Roby Centre to receive welldeserved recognition for their achievements at the College.

The evening consisted of the presentation of certificates to students who completed courses in 2010 and also the giving of special awards to those students, chosen by the College, for individual recognition.

A fantastic evening was had by all and included a guest speech from former student and now successful Chef, Aiden Byrne. A selection of festive songs were also performed by the College choir.

Bill Doran, Assistant Principal for Roby Sixth Form said: ‘2010 was a very successful year, with excellent exam results and the majority of our students going on to Higher Education or employment. The awards evening is a great opportunity to meet up with old friends and to receive recognition for all the hard work that goes into gaining advanced level qualifications. Well done again to all the achievers; the College is proud and wishes them all the best for the future.”

21

EYESORE LAND TRANSFORMED INTO FAMILY SUPPORT UNIT

Jan Lee, Supported Living Service Manager at KHT, and Professor Peter Roberts unveil the plaque at Yates Court

Derelict land in Knowsley has been transformed into an eco-friendly facility to help homeless families.

Knowsley Housing Trust’s (KHT) family support unit was officially opened in December by Peter Roberts OBE, KHT Group Chair.

The once blighted area has been used to build a green, safe and modern building that will be used to help families become more independent and find permanent homes.

KHT worked closely with its partners

at Knowsley Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, with the first residents moving in during February 2010.

The 13 self contained apartments boast many eco features including energy efficient insulation and lighting as well as a communal garden and external parking facilities.

Terry Bonner, Operational Director of Landlord Services for KHT, said: “We are delighted and proud to be able to officially open this facility.

“Our partnership working has been central to the success of this project.

“Since 2004 KHT and Knowsley Council have had a vision to provide this essential service to the people of Knowsley. Putting that vision into what we have today has been a long journey.

“But with a lot of hard work, perseverance and commitment we have a facility that will provide support for Knowsley families for many years to come.”

MERSEYSIDE GETS PHYSICAL One of the biggest challenges facing the public in Merseyside is for us to get more physically active, to reduce obesity and other associated health problems with a sedentary lifestyle and to improve our physical and mental wellbeing.

Merseyside Sports Partnership has been championing sport and physical activity and it seems that Merseyside people are beginning to get more physically active as a recent survey shows. The Active People Survey shows that more people are taking part in sport and physical activity 3 x 30 minutes a week than 5 years ago when the survey began.

During 2009/10, 6.938 million adults nationally (aged 16 and over) participated in sport three times a week for 30 minutes at moderate intensity (16.5% of the adult population in England). In Merseyside this figure is 21.5%, which is rising annually. Back in 2005-2006 the first survey shows Merseyside’s participation in 3 x 30 as 19.5%.

Marketing Officer for Merseyside Sports Partnership Katie Crozier commented: “Sport in part of the culture is Merseyside and always will be. What is fascinating about this survey, is that it shows not only that we are more active than the rest of the country, but that we are also

getting more physical year by year, which can only be a positive sign.

“I would encourage everyone to look at ways to get more physically active in the new year as sport and physical activity are a great way to look after your health, control your weight and surprisingly keeping active gives you more energy and helps you to handle stress.

“Joining a local gym is great, but it’s

not for everyone, keep looking until you find a form of exercise that fits into your life, it could be anything from football to yoga, and get support. By joining a community sports club you become part of a new social network and can support each other, which I have found to be a great way to keep you focussed.”

To find a local sports club visit www.merseysidesport.com

FOUNDATION LEARNING SET TO BLOOM For students who work below the stressful benchmark of 5 A*–Cs, Foundation Learning (FL) is an exciting new pathway that can lead to further education and employment.

Trialled over the last two years in Knowsley under its Work-Based Learning Programme, the framework for FL allows learners of varying ability to progress in their studies and work to their strengths. Government statistics suggest that at least 25% of young people would benefit from FL with many areas across the country reaching up to 40%.

Students identified are often said to have a ‘spiky’ profile if their practical skills far outweigh their levels of literacy and numeracy. The old system meant that many of these learners could not access FE until this was addressed. Under FL, however, a learner can progress in their vocational areas such as hairdressing, construction and motor mechanics up to Level One (equivalent to GCSE, D-G) whilst working to improve other areas at Entry Level (pre-GCSE).

All seven learning centres in Knowsley, two specialist schools, and Knowsley Community College have embraced FL and now there is a significant post-16 pathway for every learner. The four pathways available for young people are: GCSEs; Diplomas; Apprenticeships and Foundation Learning

22 The Challenge January 2011

The Challenge January 2011

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The Challenge January 2011

Challenge SPORT If you have got any sports news contact us on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com

FURTHER SUCCESS FOR HALEWOOD

PRESCOT SWIMMING CLUB PROMOTED

Halewood Tae Kwon-Do’s amazing success continued at the 2010 British Championships, held in Telford on 28th November 2010.

This was the final tournament of the year and their students did a fantastic job of representing the club, earning a huge haul of 20 medals – 10 gold, 7 silver and 3 bronze. Seven of their students are now British Champions.

With 178 medals won in only nine tournaments, and recognition as ‘Club of the Year’ at Knowsley and Merseyside sports awards evenings, it has been their most successful year yet. They are confident that their students will continue to go from strength to strength in 2011.

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Prescot Swimming Club recently came third in the Division 2 Arena National League North West final in the 50m Pool at the Wavertree Aquatics Centre in Wavertree, Liverpool to gain promotion to the First Division.

Prescot beat teams from Halton, Preston, Garston, Wigan and Stretford to take coveted third spot and gain promotion.

This final performance follows two

great rounds of competition in October and November which saw Prescot finish third in the 18 team division.

The final was a closely fought affair with Prescot vying for third place with Garston and Wigan, behind the strong teams of Winsford and Oldham Aquatics.

The lead places changed hands many times during the 50 event final before Prescot finally clinched the coveted 3rd

place after a thrilling final relay with the Open Age Boys Team taking second place and promotion.

This caps off a great year for Prescot with success at local, County, Regional and National competitions.

Next year will see Prescot move into a new 25m pool in Huyton, after the closure of Scotchbarn Pool, and look forward to the Club capitalising on this success.

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

Advertising, Graphic Design and Typesetting by Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678 Printed by News International Newspapers Limited at Kitling Road, Prescot, Merseyside L34 9HN.