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FRE E CO PY

L25 L18 L16 L15 L17 L19 Issue 172

Feb-March 2024

Your No.1 Local Community Magazine & Business Directory

SUFFERED FROM MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE? You’ll want us on your side. Offices in Garston, Allerton & City Centre Gregory Abrams Davidson is a trading name of National Law Partners Limited authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority registered in England and Wales under number 08312439.

For medical negligence advice us 24/7 call ourCall team on on

0151 3353 0151 733733 3353 www.gadlegal.co.uk www.gadlegal.co.uk info@gadlegal.co.uk @gadlegal

info@gadlegal.co.uk

e’ve got you covered

One of the most commonly asked es inquestions Garston, Allerton, City Centre & London from clients at the start of Abrams Davidson is a trading name of National Law Partners Limited authorised and regulated by the any residential transaction is: Regulation Authority registered in Englandproperty and Wales under number 08312439. How long will my conveyancing take? Stephanie Thomas, Trainee Solicitor at Gregory Abrams Davidson Solicitors, is here to help. This is the golden question that many clients will ask at the beginning of a transaction and possibly the hardest to predict. Whilst each transaction is unique, here are some of the most common factors which can influence that timescale.

Property chain A property chain is formed when a group of buyers and sellers are linked together because their own purchase or sale depends on another somewhere along that chain. It is also likely that each of these transactions will have started on a different date which then means they are not ready at the same time, can take longer or are more complicated. The more transactions that form part of a chain, the more likely it is that something could go wrong.

Searches If you require a mortgage to purchase your property, then obtaining searches from the local authority will be compulsory. There is no set timescale for a local authority to produce these and it differs massively from one to another. The searches are also required to be paid for upfront and some buyers may delay paying for these until their mortgage offer is approved or survey result has been received.

Mortgages If you require a mortgage to purchase your property your lender will need to carry out a valuation. The seller will need to grant access to the buyer’s valuer from the bank for the inspection to be carried out. How quickly the inspection can be done will depend on the lender’s timescales and availability of the seller to give access. Once the mortgage offer is issued, they are generally valid for only 6 months so the buyer will need to keep an eye on the expiry date of their mortgage offer.

Freehold vs Leasehold

The information required is usually provided in the form of a leasehold information pack which the freeholder or managing agent will typically charge a fee to produce and don’t release the information until this fee has been paid. Due to the volume of information required to produce the pack many managing agents will quote 10 working days to produce the pack from receipt of payment. The information in the pack is only valid for 6 months so if the transaction takes longer another pack may have to be obtained. To summarise, the average timescale for conveyancing transactions is around 8-12 weeks but depends on many factors with only a few listed above. If your solicitor provides you with documentation to complete or requests identification, we always recommend you provide this promptly to prevent any delays and to help the transaction to be as speedy as possible. For more advice and support about buying or selling a property get in touch with Stephanie, or another member of the team at one of our branches in Liverpool City Centre, Allerton, or West Kirby. Visit the website gadlegal.co.uk or call 0151 236 5000. Stephanie Thomas is based at our Allerton branch in Penny Lane.

Freehold sales and purchases are often much quicker than leasehold ones. This is due to more information being required for a leasehold transaction which comes from third parties such as the freeholder or managing agents who manage or collect the service charge or ground rent for that property.

Conveyancing? We’ll get you moving. You’ll want us on your side. Offices in Garston, Allerton, City Centre & London Gregory Abrams Davidson is a trading name of National Law Partners Limited authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority registered in England and Wales under number 08312439.

Stephanie Thomas Trainee Solicitor sthomas@gadlegal.co.uk 0151 330 0750

For fast, efficient and competitive conveyancing, call our team on

0151 733 3353 www.gadlegal.co.uk info@gadlegal.co.uk

Contents 4 Reboot Your Health 7 Local History 12 My Funny Valentine

South Liverpool’s favourite community magazine. Est. 2006.

13 Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 14 Crossword & Sudoku

14 Quizzes 16 Local News

Welcome

18 Boost Your Home Exterior 19 What’s On 20 Noel Fitzpatrick Super Vet

Hello everyone! Welcome to your February/March 2024 issue of the Liverpool LINK.

21 Photo of the Month

A very Happy New Year to you all! Yes, I know this will feel a bit late but it has been my first opportunity to wish all LINK readers and advertisers the very best. We really value your support here at The LINK.

21 Poetry Corner

Don’t forget that 2024 comes with a special bonus. It’s a leap year this year meaning we get an extra day on the 29th February! How do you plan to spend yours? Unfortunately, it is a Thursday so I think I can already predict some of the answers… Just make sure you make up for it another day. The first day of spring is officially the 20th of March 2024, so look out for all the daffodils and tree blossoms. Easter celebrations occur at the end of March too, with Good Friday on the 29th of March. Then the clocks will go forward in the early hours of Sunday the 31st of March, essentially giving you an hour less to consume all of those Easter eggs! Enjoy! Until next time, take care and don’t forget to tell our very valued advertisers that you saw it in The LINK. Best wishes Moira (Editor) and everyone at The LINK

21 Cat & Dog of the Month 23 Strange Tales 24 Kids Corner 25 Managing Money for Children 26 Recipe 26 Puzzle & Quiz Solutions

27 Sports News 28 The LINK Business Directory

To book, call Moira on 07930 654264 Or email liverpoollink@yahoo.co.uk Read our latest issues at www.liverpoollink.co.uk follow us on www.facebook.com/liverpoollinkmagazines

Tell the people of South Liverpool about your business. Don’t miss your chance to advertise in the next issue of The LINK.

Next deadline - Monday 11th March

DISCLAIMER - TERMS & CONDITIONS - Liverpool LINK (i.e. South Liverpool LINK, West Derby LINK & Little LINK Directories) is wholly owned by Liverpool LINK Ltd. The content of this publication, in part or as a whole, including advertisements, may not be reproduced in any form without prior permission from the publisher. Liverpool LINK Ltd accepts no liability for products or services offered by third party companies. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published, we cannot be held responsible for claims made, or the accuracy of content supplied, by advertisers or contributors. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher.

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LINK pick up points SUPERMARKETS Tesco Mather Avenue L18 Tesco Woolton L25 Sainsbury’s Woolton L25 ASDA Smithdown Road L15 Tesco Park Road L8 POST OFFICES Woolton Post Office, 27 Woolton Street, L25 5NH Hunts Cross Post Office, 269 Speke Rd, L25 0NN Lark Lane Post Office, Lark Lane, L17 Speke Post Office, 4 South Parade, L24 2SG

Booker Ave. Post Office, L18 Garston Post Office, Speke Rd., L18 SOUTH LIVERPOOL LIBRARIES Allerton Library, Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 6HG Childwall Fiveways Library, Liverpool, L15 6UT Garston Library, Bowden Road, L19 1QN Lee Valley Library, Millennium Centre, Childwall Valley RD, L25 2RF Sefton Park Library, Aigburth Road, L17 4JS Speke Library, Parklands, Conleach Road, Speke, L24 OTY

Wavertree Library, Picton Road, L15 4LP Halewood Library, Leathers Lane, L26 0TS R.T.S. Printers, Rose Lane, Liverpool 18 Espresso Plus 173, Rose Lane, L18 Aigburth Cricket Club, L17 Aigburth Hall Nurseries, 5 Aigburth Hall Ave, L19 9EA South Liverpool NHS Treatment Centre, Garston L19 Speke Treatment Centre NHS L24 Citizens Advice Bureau, 2 Speke Road, L19

NEWSAGENTS, ETC McNaughton’s, 250 Woolton Road, Childwall, L16 8NE Keith’s Food & Wine Bar, Lark Lane, L17 Prom News, 137 Aigburth Road, Aigburth Vale, L17 Hale News, Hale Village, L24 Grange Lane Store, Gateacre Village, L25 Super Cigs, Belle Vale Shopping Centre, L25 Woolton Village Newsagents, Allerton Road, L25 Liverpool South Parkway Train Station

Reboot your health and wellbeing for the year ahead After the festivities, January and February can seem hard months for our health and wellbeing. The days are cold and dark, many of us seem overcome with fatigue after spending months building up to Christmas, and spring seems a long way away. However, in January, each day gets longer and by the end of the month, they are almost ninety minutes longer than on the first. That is the length of a football match! How can we reboot our health and wellbeing? We need to get our body and mind active! And to do this we need to set goals and try and follow routines. Let’s get physical! Walk Wednesday – is something we can all do. Speak with friends, family and colleagues, about going for a walk every Wednesday, come rain, shine or snow! Rambling legend Alfred Wainwright once said; ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.’ Invest in a good warm, waterproof coat, and wellies and get walking. Flight-full Friday – let’s all start taking the stairs at work instead of the lift. Start by doing this every Friday and try adding other days. Stair climbing is great exercise.

Park runs – why not join a local Park Run group who generally meet Saturday mornings at a local park for all abilities. A great chance to improve your couch to 5K! See the Park Run website for groups near you. Yoga – enrol in a local class or try an online course. It’s good for body and soul. Mindfulness and mental stimulation Exercising our brains as well as our bodies is also a great way to reboot our wellbeing for the year ahead. Start a new hobby – Drawing, painting, photography or a new language - why not watch some online tutorials and or find local groups to learn with? Enjoy a crafternoon, or evening – upcycle furniture, try knitting or get back into the sewing you learnt at school. Make beautiful music – by learning to play a musical instrument. Why not dust off that old guitar in the attic? They are easy to tune yourself or you could get some expert advice from a music store. Mindfulness and meditation classes – these are the perfect way to reboot your mental health and wellbeing for the year ahead. By Rob Bullock

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Nutrition Trends for 2024 ‘microbiome’ diet. Studies have shown that by eating foods that support all the good microorganisms in your gut, you can actively boost your immune system.

As if you don’t have enough on your plate, there are always new trends and ideas that claim to help you feel healthier, lose weight, boost immunity, save time, or align your diet with your personal beliefs. It’s hard to keep up!

A Vegan Diet – This is not a new trend at all, but one that may require a little clarification. Veganism is not just a diet, it’s a lifestyle choice. Being vegan means consuming no animal produce whatsoever or anything derived from an animal, so no honey from bees, chicken eggs, or dairy produce. Vegans will also actively avoid leather products, and even toiletries that could have been tested on animals. It takes a lot of dedication to follow this philosophy, but many people deeply believe in this way of life.

Here are several interesting developments from the world of food and nutrition: Climate-based nutrition – This revolves around the idea that we should eat more seasonal produce with a minimal carbon footprint. If you buy your food from a supermarket, it could have been grown in Europe, Africa or even New Zealand, and the air miles used to transport it could increase pollution. This means buying fruit and vegetables that are in season, knowing that it hasn’t traversed the planet before it lands on your plate Plant-based nutrition – This regimen relies on eating products that are derived from plants, which can include fruit, vegetables, beans, pulses, legumes, nuts and meat substitutes like soy. Plant-based diets can vary greatly, and meat substitutes can be overly processed, so always strive for balanced nutrition and plenty of variety. The Gut Health diet – Eating foods rich in probiotics and prebiotics, fibre, polyphenols and Omega-3 fatty acids, is the basis for the

Mindful eating – Being fully aware of your surroundings and the sensations you feel when you eat, is the central purpose of mindful eating. This includes slowing down, sitting and savouring your food, not eating on the go, or sitting in front of the TV. Being mindful of what you eat can also help you eat less, promote better digestion and help you make better food choices. By Emma Russell

How Waste Wizard are keeping Liverpool clean Waste Wizard, an environmentally friendly clearance company for domestic and commercial customers, has been building a solid reputation throughout Liverpool for their commitment to a high standard of customer service and the best after-job cleanup in town. Tony Worrall and his team specialise in the removal of domestic, dirty and small trade waste. If you don’t want it, they will remove it. From total house clearance to attics, lofts, garages, sheds, garden clearance, hardcore, wood, plastic, metal, wood, carpets and electrical items, there is no job too big or too small. As the leading choice in Liverpool for rubbish removal, they’re big enough to cope with all your waste management requirements but small enough to care, giving individual attention to each and every customer. As well as competitive prices they also offer a same-day removal service. For more information, visit their website at www.wastewizardliverpool.co.uk Call 07737 001531

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local history

by Stephen Guy

Ancient Stanlawe Grange The motor age has seen road-widening schemes to accommodate rising numbers of vehicles since Edwardian times. Ancient Stanlawe Grange, also known as the Monks’ Granary, in Aigburth was an early victim of such schemes. Most of it was demolished when the junction of Aigburth Hall Avenue and Aigburth Hall Road was created about 1906. Pictured are two barns which bordered the road. They are long gone but one building survives (inset) as Liverpool’s oldest house. The grange was originally occupied by monks from the Cistercian abbey at Stanlow, near Ellesmere Port. The abbey was founded in 1178 by John, constable of Chester and sixth baron of Halton. Stanlawe Grange was first mentioned in a church document authorised by Pope Nicholas IV in 1291. A 1768 survey of the Liverpool district shows the grange as the most prominent building in the area, then forming three sides of a square. The main road from Liverpool ended at the entrance to the granary. This indicates that the grange was originally a place of very considerable importance. A local historian, who visited the barns shortly before demolition, wrote: “The barns, the roofs of which were probably originally thatched, were constructed entirely of great red sandstone blocks. “Entering the buildings, we found ourselves confronted by a forest of timber. The beams were simply huge roughly hewn trunks of solid oak crudely shaped with an axe. “Along the top of the walls, great slabs of oak had been laid to which the oaken rafters had been attached by means of oaken pegs. “No nails whatever had been made use of – the entire structure was firmly locked together by oaken pegs.“

The lower barn, nearest the road, was 70 ft long while the adjacent upper barn was nearly 100 ft in length. Both barns were 17 ft high with 9 ft wide doors. The surviving Stanlawe Grange was occupied for many years by May Frith, who was interviewed by a local paper in 1960. “It is cruck-built, Miss Frith proudly informed me,” the reporter wrote. “She explained that this meant the house was constructed round tree trunks. Each was left with a single branch to form half an arch with a tie-beam to hold the arch together.” Miss Frith said a relative bought the grange about 1910 to save it from demolition. Learn more about the history of Liverpool at the Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head, admission free.

Local Business Spotlight: Richard and Shannon Jenkins Funeral Directors Since 1880, the Jenkins family have been guiding and helping families through their time of need. Originating from Liverpool’s oldest independent family funeral service, Richard and Shannon Jenkins Funeral Directors are made up of Richard and Shannon, who are the fourth generation and Richard Jnr, Ryan and Barry, who are the fifth generation of the Jenkins family. Richard and Shannon Jenkins Family Funeral Directors are a true local and independent business and not dictated to by any large conglomerate on how they operate in any way. They are there to offer bereaved families compassion, help and support during their time of need.

The basis of their services includes either a simple or traditional funeral package, as well as additional guidance on burials or cremation, flowers, and coffins. Following the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) market investigation into the funeral sector, it is compulsory that every funeral director has a Standard Price List. This should be available on their website, in the window of their branch, and available to be taken away for reflection so there are no hidden fees and full price transparency.

Your next steps when a loved one passes When a friend or family member passes away, it can be difficult to understand what your next steps are. Knowing who to contact and when will no doubt feel like an overwhelming and daunting task. Fortunately, Richard and Shannon Jenkins have created a detailed guide covering all situations - when a loved passes away at home, in hospital, in a care home or suddenly. Their guides will walk you through the process and can be found on their website www.rsjfunerals.co.uk/ where-to-start/ or give them a call on 0151 318 4660 if you prefer a more personal touch.

How they can help you With 152 years of experience between them all, they are perfectly placed to tailor their services to meet the needs of every bereaved family individually with true compassion and professionalism.

On-going care and support The death of someone important to us will probably be one of the most difficult experiences we ever have to face. Grief is completely natural after bereavement and people cope with it with help and support either from family or friends, or from an organisation like theirs. SAIF Care is a service offered by selected funeral homes that are members of the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF). As well as a support line, they offer up to six free sessions of supportive counselling by telephone, Skype / Facetime or face to face in your local area by our skilled and qualified counsellors. All SAIF Care services are free of charge to people who have used Richard and Shannon Jenkins Funeral Directors. For more information, contact Richard, Shannon and family via the contact details below, or feel free to visit them at 3 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LG.

Website: www.rsjfunerals.co.uk Phone: 0151 318 4660 Email: admin@rsjfunerals.co.uk

RICHARD & SHANNON JENKINS

Independent Family Funeral Directors

Richard and Shannon Jenkins Funeral directors are your local, trusted, independent funeral directors. We believe in being at the heart of the community, providing a first class 24 hour service and building strong everlasting relations with you and your family at this very difficult time.

“

We are everything but over priced PRE PAID FUNERALS AVAILABLE

”

PERSONAL ATTENTION OF Mr. Richard Jenkins • Ms. Shannon Jenkins • Mr. Richard Jenkins Jnr • Mr. Ryan Jenkins • Mr. Barry Jenkins

Richard & Shannon Jenkins Funeral Directors Formerly of B. Jenkins & Sons 3 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LG Customer parking at rear of building in Auckland Road

Call: 0151 318 4660 Email: shannon@rsjfunerals.co.uk

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Exploring the Dangers of Care Homes Compared to In-Home Care Navigating the decision between care homes and in-home care for the elderly or individuals with specific care needs can be challenging. This choice becomes even more crucial when considering the dangers and risks associated with each option.

safely and happily in their own homes, with care plans tailored to their specific needs. This contrasts with the generic care approach that can sometimes be found in care homes due to the necessity of managing a larger number of residents.

1. Increased Risk of Contracting Illnesses in Care Homes - One of the major concerns with care homes is the increased risk of contracting illnesses, such as COVID-19. In these settings, the close proximity of residents and shared facilities can accelerate the spread of contagious diseases. There are still instances of COVID outbreaks in care homes. Indeed there are covid outbreaks in care homes over the winter months of 23/24. Right at Home South Liverpool is seeing increasing enquiries for concerned family members who want to move their loved one out of residential care and are looking for Live In Care at home. The NHS acknowledges that care homes can sometimes be stressful environments for managing health and care, although they also offer the benefit of a social life and general wellbeing.

4. Adapting Home for Enhanced Independence - The NHS and Age UK both suggest that adapting the home environment can be a viable alternative to moving into a care home. This includes modifications like stairlifts, handrails, and the use of household gadgets and equipment to aid daily activities. Hiring a carer or getting more support at home is another option for maintaining independence while receiving the necessary care.

2. The Comfort of Familiar Surroundings at Home - Age UK emphasizes the importance of familiar surroundings for the emotional and mental well-being of the elderly. Being uprooted from a known environment and placed into a care home can be disorienting and stressful. In contrast, in-home care allows individuals to stay in their own homes, maintaining their connection with their personal space and memories, which is vital for their overall comfort and happiness. 3. Personalized Care in the Home Setting - Home care services, like those provided by Right at Home Liverpool South, aim to offer a more personalized care experience. They focus on enabling individuals to live

5. Right at Home Liverpool South’s Approach - Right at Home Liverpool South focuses on making a positive difference in the lives of their clients by offering quality care that isn’t rushed. Their approach is driven by positive outcomes rather than simply by need, indicating a commitment to personalized care and the overall well-being of their clients. Right at Home South Liverpool (0151 665 0365) offer a number of options for in home care from one call a day through to Live in Care in South Liverpool and Halton. On the news section of our website you can see an article which will give you a comprehensive guide about the Live In Care Right at Home South Liverpool provides. Conclusion - While care homes provide necessary services for those requiring constant care and can offer social benefits, the risks associated with these environments in terms of health and psychological wellbeing cannot be ignored. In-home care, as advocated by organizations

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We don’t just care for our clients; we look after their families. Whether our client wants to go on a short break or their family need a holiday, respite cover or hospital to home support. Whether personal care and support with taking medication is needed or whether there are more complex medicals needs. We are here to provide you with the help you need for your loved ones to stay in the place with memories, the place which feels right, the place they know as home.

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My Funny Valentine

February has come round again and, as usual, the 14th will bring both delight and despair to lovers everywhere. But who exactly was Valentine? And why does this particular saint cause more havoc than Cupid all these centuries later? The answer is that we can only guess at his real identity, and that he is probably a composite of several early Christian martyrs. What we do know, though, is that February has long been a month connected with romance and St. Valentine has been connected with both. One legend says that Valentine was a priest (3rd Rome AD Claudius II). The emperor believed that marriage distracted too many young men from their military obligation, but Valentine continued to solemnize marriage in spite of the ban and was put to death, so becoming the patron saint of lovers. Other versions have Valentine as the saviour of imprisoned Christians, or even as a prisoner himself. The story goes that the gaoler’s daughter used to visit him, and before he was martyred, he sent her a letter - “from your Valentine”. So we may never be sure of his true identity, but we do know that he was sympathetic, heroic, and, above all, romantic. Other possibilities are that the date commemorates his death (in about 270AD), and that naming the saint’s day was an attempt to “Christianize” the pagan Lupercalia festival, in which the Romans celebrated the start of Spring. This was when, in addition to a lot of “Spring-cleaning”, they performed fertility rites to Faunus the God of Agriculture and remembered Romulus and Remus, who founded Rome. The name “Lupercalia” is a reminder that the twins were reared by the she-wolf.

Part of the festivities involved young men and women placing their names in a large urn and, in the “lottery” which followed, lads picked names from the urn; the result was couples pairing up for a year, which frequently resulted in marriage. Around 478AD, Pope Gelasius put a stop to the lottery and declared 14th February St. Valentine’s Day. By the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France, and it may be that their belief was that Feb 14th was the day the birds chose their mates, the idea that mid February was an ideal time for romance. The oldest known Valentine in existence is believed to be a poem, now in the British Library, written by Charles, Duke d’Orleans to his wife while he was in the Tower of London after his defeat at Agincourt. Several years later, King Henry V hired a writer called John Lydgate to compose a Valentine note to Catherine de Valois. In Britain the saint’s feast day began to be popular from the seventeenth century and, by the mid eighteenth century, all social classes had acquired the charming habit of exchanging small tokens of affection or handwritten notes to lovers or friends. The Nineteenth Century saw mass-produced printed cards coming into fashion and with a cheaper, more reliable postal service, the practice of sending “Valentine” cars spread throughout Europe and America. The current estimate is that 1 billion Valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second-biggest card-seller of the year, only eclipsed by Christmas. So it seems that love really is, as the old song says “The oldest and the latest thing”. Happy Valentine’s Day to all! By Colette Mckenna ( Moira’s sister)

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month – March 2024 March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and is a great opportunity to educate people about ovarian cancer and make people aware of how they can help support the research that aims to help people diagnosed with the disease and prevent it for future generations of women. Ovarian Cancer Here in the UK, one woman dies of ovarian cancer every two hours. Although five-year survival rates for ovarian cancer are greatly improving, some other cancers, such as breast cancer, had better survival rates forty years ago than ovarian cancer does today. This needs to change. The four main symptoms of ovarian cancer are: ■ Persistent stomach pain ■ Persistent bloating ■ Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly ■ A need to go to the toilet more frequently If you are suffering from these symptoms, please contact your GP. Early diagnosis is vital. If ovarian cancer is diagnosed at stage one, a woman has a 90% chance of surviving for five years or more but by stage four survival rate is as low as 4%. Deadlier than other gynae cancers. The startling facts are that ovarian cancer kills more women in the UK than womb, cervical, vaginal and vulval cancer combined. And because

there is no national awareness programme it is vital that we spread the word about the symptoms and the importance of early diagnosis. Survival rates need to improve. Over recent decades, research into breast and prostate cancer has seen dramatic improvements in survival rates and benefited thousands of people in the UK. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month aims to make this a reality for ovarian cancer. Get involved to make a difference. There are many ways you can get involved and by doing so you can make a massive difference in fighting this terrible disease including: Take on a sporting challenge - From walks and adventure treks to runs, cycles and even skydives – there are plenty of events to help you push yourself and raise vital funds and awareness. Fundraise - From bake sales to bingo, bring and buy sales to coffee mornings you could make a massive difference and have a great time doing it. Get involved in research - You can make a real difference by getting involved with one of the many opportunities put forward by researchers to contribute to their latest research projects. Ovarian Cancer Action ovarian.org.uk is a great place to begin Ovarian Cancer Research Month. It is the UK’s leading ovarian cancer charity. It aims to improve ovarian cancer survival rates through knowledge, breakthroughs and fairness. Why not help them make ovarian cancer a survivable disease for every woman?

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QUIZ

T IME

Music Quiz 1. Which famous early 70’s No.1 contains the lyrics “But February made me shiver, with every paper I’d deliver”? 2. Alvin Lee was the lead guitarist in (a) Ten Years After (b) Nine Inch Nails or (c) Gang of Four? 3. What was Take That’s first No.1: was it (a) Pray (b) Relight My Fire or (c) Could It Be Magic? 4. Three artists have had hit singles called “The Power of Love”: Jennifer Rush and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. The third was (a) T.Rex (b) Huey Lewis and the News or (c) Dean Martin? 5. Which female singer had a chart hit with Nick Cave in 1995 (“Where the Wild Roses Grow”) and a chart hit with Robbie Williams in 2000 (“Kids”)? 6. Which Robbie Williams song includes the lyrics “Hell is gone and heaven’s here, there’s nothing left for you to fear”?

Across 6

Trailblazer, trendsetter (7)

Sacked, given P45 (5)

Wooden shoe (4)

10 Measuring rod, inept person (8) 11 Belongs to a club (6) 13 Jab, prod (4) 15 Cat (informal) (4) 16 Glace, sour, Morello (6) 18 Valve in the loo cistern (8) 21 Did not tell the truth (4) 22 Oozy goo! (5) 23 High military rank (7)

Down

1 Undulating landscape (5) 2 Chortle, titter (8) 3 Imprisoned, incarcerated (4) 4 Perfect, spanking-new (4) 5 Toasted fruit-bun (7) 8 Thinly dispersed (6) 12 Call forward with a gesture (6) 13 Adjacent lines indefinitely equidistant are said to be ________ (8) 14 Responsive to medical treatment (7) 17 Turkish meat dish cooked on a skewer (5) 19 Floppy (4) 20 Part of the underside of a boat used for stability (4)

Take a break with the LINK Sudoku Sudoku is a highly addictive puzzle game with one rule. Place the number from 1 to 9 in each row, in each column and each 3x3 box.

7. George Michael had a No.1 hit in February 1987 (“I Knew You Were Waiting For Me”) singing with which female singer? (a) Aretha Franklin (b) Diana Ross (c) Dionne Warwick? 8. By what name is Declan MacManus better known? 9. Which band consists of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe? 10. 3 February 1959 is known as “The Day the Music Died”. 3 rock’n’ roll stars were killed in a plane crash - Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and: was it (a) Little Richard (b) The Big Bopper or (c) Fats Domino?

General Knowledge 1. Which country is bordered by the following countries: Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, & Slovenia? (a) Bulgaria (b) Czech Republic (c) Hungary? 2. Abuja is the capital city of which African country? (a) Kenya (b) Nigeria (c) Uganda? 3. “Fidelity, Bravery, Integrity” is the motto of which U.S. law-enforcement agency? 4. Samuel Langhorne Clemens is the “real name” of which famous American author? (a) F Scott Fitzgerald (b) Mickey Spillane (c) Mark Twain? 5. Which Belgian city was the scene of the first British-German battle of the First World War? (a) Mons (b) Passchendaele (c) Ypres? 6. Who was the fifth wife of Henry VIII? (a) Catherine of Aragon (b) Catherine Howard (c) Catherine Parr? 7. Lady Penelope was a character in which well-known 60s TV puppet series? (a) Fireball XL5 (b) Joe 90 (c) Thunderbirds? 8. In what year did Hillary and Tensing become the first mountaineers to climb Everest? (a) 1948 (b) 1953 (c) 1958? 9. Which river flows into the North Sea at Sunderland? (a) Tyne (b) Tees (c) Wear? 10. What is the capital of Scotland? (a) Edinburgh (b) Glasgow (c) Perth?

Solutions on page 26

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Local NEWS

February - March 2024

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Spice Girls beautifully hand-made by international designers or specially commissioned by the Spice Girls themselves.

A brand new temporary exhibition at Liverpool’s British Music Experience at the Pier Head is charting the history of the most important girl band in British history.

The Spice Girls sold 80 million records worldwide and had nine UK Number One singles. The exhibition celebrates the story of how Sporty, Baby, Scary, Ginger and Posh became one of the most successful girl groups ever.

‘Girl Power! Spice Girls at 30’ will run from 7 February 2024 to 8 September 2024 and will tell the band’s story through outfits from the extraordinary collection of independent curator Liz West, who is the foremost collector of Spice Girls memorabilia and merchandise in the world. The collection boasts many iconic costumes all

To purchase general entry tickets, go to www.britishmusicexperience.com

Enter the Dragon! Liverpool is to stage their biggest-ever Lunar New Year celebrations, not only to welcome in the Year of the Dragon but also to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the city’s twinning with Shanghai. Taking place from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 February, for the first time the FREE activities will not only take over the Chinatown area, but they will also bring a festival of colour and sound to

the Bombed Out Church (St Luke’s), Liverpool ONE and the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. As well as the usual Chinatown takeover which includes traditional dragon, lion and unicorn parades, firecracker displays, family workshops, Tai Chi demonstrations, live music, a fairground and food and craft stalls. These will take place in the run-up to the main day of celebration on the Sunday and on the day itself.

Unique play area restored to former glory Liverpool’s first fully accessible children’s play area – in Croxteth Country Park – has reopened.

in progress to make sure the facility is lovingly restored to its former glory.

Last summer the play area was completely destroyed by fire damage after an arson attack and had to be closed. This was a huge disappointment to many of the locals who used and loved the play area. But hard work has been

In January, the play area at Croxteth Hall and Country Park reopened and can now be enjoyed again by everyone. To find out more, please go to: www.croxteth-hall.co.uk

Liverpool joins race to host Gay Games Liverpool has officially expressed an interest in hosting the Gay Games in 2030. A total of 25 cities across six continents expressed an interest in bidding by submitting an official response to the FGG’s Request for Information (RFI). The FGG is proud to maintain an equitable, supportive, and transparent bidding process which empowers communities to mobilize their stakeholders and unite to participate in the global LGBTQIA+ movement as athletes, artists, and allies.

The Gay Games sporting and culture event is an opportunity to invite over ten thousand LGBTQIA+ participants and allies to one’s region. The week-long event represents a critical cultural and economic opportunity providing significant economic impact to a region. Recent impact studies reported Paris (2018) at 107€ million and Cleveland/Akron (2014) at $52 million.

Could you adopt a child? Adoption in Merseyside has found families for over 380 children in the past five years – but there are currently 55 children in Merseyside still waiting for an adoptive family. A child under three can expect to wait around seven months to find the right adoptive family but over three years old the waiting time can double, with some children waiting up to two years. There are many misconceptions about who can and can’t adopt. People can adopt if they are

single, in a relationship, if they are renting, or if they have children. 18% of approved adopters in Merseyside were single applicants in 2022/2023. During the adoption process, there is training available for prospective adopters to support their child’s healing journey. If you can open up your heart and home to a child, visit www.adoptioninmerseyside.co.uk and request an information pack to find out more information.

Bleeding control cabinets installed in city centre The first six emergency ‘bleeding control cabinets’ have been installed in Liverpool city centre in an attempt to save lives. Each bright-red cabinet is accessible 24 hours a day using a code which is provided by calling 999 and speaking to the ambulance service and contains a portable bleed kit, which can be used as a vital tool to prevent and reduce major blood loss before paramedics arrive. The newly installed cabinets have been put up in key locations across Liverpool city centre including in the Ropewalks and Mathew Street

areas, with four more scheduled to be installed at time of print. The campaign was launched following the fatal stabbing of 12-year-old Ava White in November 2021, and is supported by her mum, Leeann, and the foundation created in her memory. The campaign supports the extensive work undertaken across the region to reduce and prevent serious violence, which has led to a 22% decrease in knife offences from June 2022 to June 2023 and continues to reduce.

Boost Your Home Exterior this Spring Whether you’re thinking of moving, or just want to freshen up your home, improving the exterior will increase its curb appeal and overall value. A positive first impression can make your house more inviting for any potential buyers, but it can also boost your happiness when you see your own beautiful home with everything in order. A welcoming entrance makes a house much more inviting. Make sure your front door is clean and tidy; wash it, give it a fresh coat of paint, or maybe even invest in a new one. Add some potted plants and a welcome mat, you’ll impress any visitors. Giving the exterior a good clean is a great way to assess the paintwork and see if any further decoration is required. Clean the outside walls, any paths or paving and the driveway. Power washers are excellent at removing dirt, grime, and moss. You can hire these tools at a daily rate or hire someone to do the cleaning for you. You may find that some of the exterior fixtures need replacing. If you aren’t a confident DIYer, you can ask a professional for a quote and arrange any work to replace components that need attention. A good coat of paint will also give your home a fresh look and hide any tell-tale signs of exterior repairs. Most people like to hire a decorator for this task, as it involves working at height. Professional decorators will give you a good choice of exterior finish and ensure your home is properly sealed from the elements. Don’t forget to inspect the roof for any damage or missing tiles or shingles. A well-maintained roof is not just aesthetically pleasing, it will keep the rest of your home warm and dry. Make sure you get a professional opinion on any repairs or upgrades.

If you’re lucky enough to have a front garden, you can refresh it by adding new plants, shrubs and flowers. Lawns may need regular mowing, but they are much more eco-friendly than a concrete driveway. Consider any outdoor lighting, you need to make sure that your pathway is illuminated for safety but you may also want to specifically highlight features of your property or garden. This not only looks good, but it also improves safety and security. By Emma Russell

Looking for a rewarding job that makes a real difference? look no further! Support at Home is seeking compassionate individuals to join our team of dedicated support workers.

Join us and enjoy a range of fantastic benefits: Mileage paid up to 45p per mile. An additional 50p per call for driver’s fuel allowance. Earn up to £15 per hour. Guaranteed day off on your birthday. Double pay for bank holidays, up to £30 per hour. Uniform, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and company phone provided. Receive a £150 joining bonus. Take advantage of our Carefriends referral scheme and earn £££. Fully Funded Diploma in Health & Social Care. At Support at Home, we provide essential support and care services to those in need within the comfort of their own homes. by becoming a part of our team, you will have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others while enjoying a fulfilling and flexible career. To apply visit supportathome/jobs and browse our current vacancies. Whether you’re an experienced support worker or just starting out, we welcome all passionate individuals who are dedicated to improving the lives of others. Join Support at Home today and start making a meaningful impact.

What’s ON TRAMWAY & LIGHT RAILWAY SOCIETY

Sefton Park Community Assn., 3, Croxteth Drive, Liverpool L173AG. Monday, 18 March. The Manx Electric Railway. Andrew Scarffe reviews restoration and maintenance of this vintage electric tramway during the past five years, plus results of a recent island transport survey £3. includes refreshments. Everybody welcome.

LEARN TO SING AND GO HOME ON A HIGH!

Halewood Community Choir is open to adults 18-108. Every Thursday, 7-9pm term time in Halewood Academy, The Avenue, L26 1UU. No auditions, no need to read music, beginners and more experienced singers welcome. Free monthly sessions for visitors. Find us on Facebook or Text/Ring Jill 07791 886038

TRADITIONAL JAZZ LOVERS

The famous Merseysippi Jazz Band, established 1949, plays at the Aigburth Arms, Victoria Road, Liverpool 17, every Monday from 1.00 pm until 3.30 pm. Tea, coffee and food are available at the bar.

WARM SPACE

Holy Trinity Church Hall, (opposite church). Church Road Wavertree, Wednesdays 10.30 – 12.00. Come in for hot drinks, chat, read or sit in peace. We are on the 62, 68 and 78 bus routes so easily accessible to other areas.

GENTLEMEN! THE GRAND NATIONAL CHORUS

Enjoy singing? Maybe recently retired looking for a new interest? How about 4 part harmony in small long established mens’ chorus? Learn songs at home at your own pace through teach tracks. Rehearsals Thursday evening at Prescot Town Hall with secure parking.

www.liverpoolinharmony.co.uk/FAQ for details.

CHILDWALL MONDAY CLUB (WOMEN’S CLUB)

CADWA Hall Rocky Lane L16 1DJ 8.00pm Monday evenings. We are a friendly group of Women enjoying a programme of speakers, films, discussions, days out and weekend away. Come along and make new friends you will be very welcome. Contact Sue 07801 888673. View us on Facebook Childwall Monday Club Liverpool

EXNEX SOCIAL CLUB FOR 50+

ExNex is a well established social club for the more mature (50+ ) but young at heart! Lunches, Dinners, Pub nights, Quiz nights, Theatre, Days Out. You choose. Opportunity for a great social life, friendship and fun. Call for a chat to find out more or come along and meet us. 07534 157920.

LIVERPOOL MALE VOICE CHOIR

Awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool for services to charity. Come and join us. Rehearsals most Monday evenings 7:30 to 9:30pm Oakvale URC Hall, Liverpool L13 5SH. Phone 077902 59274, or email liverpoolmalevoicechoir@gmail.com website www.liverpoolmvc.org.uk, Facebook and Twitter. For concert bookings, and upcoming events, see website.

SOUTH LIVERPOOL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Meetings in CADWA Rocky Lane L161JD on 1st three Thursdays each month 8 -10pm. All other Thursdays online via ZOOM. Check out the syllabus, see if it’s for you, and come along. Initial meetings FREE. New members encouraged and supported, especially beginners. Contact Tim - membership@slps.co.uk Tel 0151 721 1359 or 07783 335 353 Website www.slps.co.uk

February - March 2024 SEFTON PARK BOWLING CLUB

Situated in Sefton Park, bowling club which has been active & playing since 1884. With one of the largest crown greens, we provide a great area for outdoor bowls. Beginners & experts are welcome, for social & club competitions. We have full indoor facilities.

FLEXERCISE CLASS FOR THE ACTIVE 50+

Contact Gregg on 0151 222 2964.

Exercise, movement and dance class: low impact to help improve posture, balance, muscle strength, core and range of movement. Mondays 1pm. Thursdays 10am. At All Hallows Centre, Harthill Road, Allerton, L18 3HU. To book your place, please contact Jane on 0151 724 5192 or janevduff@gmail.com

LIVERPOOL BACKGAMMON CLUB

POLICE SURGERY WOOLTON

Meets every Thursday 7pm at Christ the King social club Score Lane L16 6AW. The club is friendly, sociable and open to all levels of players including beginners who can have free lessons. Further information 07931 553829 or www.liverpoolbackgammon.co.uk

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT CHA RAMBLING CLUB (3 LEVELS / ALL AGES)

Come and join us and enjoy rambling in our beautiful countryside. All new members welcome. Coach pick ups are West Derby and Old Roan. Walks include Cumbria, Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Peak District, Wales etc. For more information please contact Pauline on 07800 807043 or paulinehinton@blueyonder.co.uk

ART FOR PLEASURE

Mondays 1pm to 3pm Garston Reading Rooms, corner of Wellington Street and Chapel Road. Book your place now! Tuesdays & Wednesdays. 10.00 am - 12.30, pm Mossley Hill Church, Rose Lane. Any medium, any ability, courses or own choice, relaxed and friendly. Call Anthea : 0151 427 5084 Email: anthea26k@gmail.com

PENNY LANE JAZZ WORKSHOP

Meets Thursdays, 7-9PM, Elm Hall Methodist Church, Elm Hall Drive, L18 2DD. £10 Admission. Led by Liverpool-based saxophonist, Frank Griffith. All instruments and vocalists welcome. Reading music not required as emphasis is on improvisation. See www.facebook/frankgriffithjazz or email frank@frankgriffith.co.uk. 07976 313224.

A chance to meet with local police community support officer, PCSO Sam, Ashton and discuss local issues on your mind. Just drop in. All welcome. Wednesday 15th February, 10-11am at St. Peter’s, Church Road, Woolton Village.

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL

We are a group of women who seek to transform the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment and enablement. We do this, in friendship, through voluntary service projects, fundraising and advocacy. We meet every fourth Wednesday of the month at 7pm at The Halfway House on Woolton Road, Childwall, Liverpool, L16 8NE, with an option of meeting socially beforehand for a meal. For more information, please contact liverpoolsorops@gmail.com, text 07814 564649 or via website www.sigbi.org/liverpool

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Noel Fitzpatrick- Super Vet Animal lovers everywhere recognise the face of Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, otherwise known as ‘the Supervet’. It was back in 2010 that Noel first came to prominence in the BBC documentary series Bionic Vet. The TV series followed the development of new veterinary procedures to help animals with unique issues and mobility problems. The format was successfully taken on by Channel 4 who launched The Supervet in 2014, a show that continues to run to this day. Martin Noel Galgani Fitzpatrick was born in Ballyfin, County Laois, Ireland in 1967. He grew up on a farm and helped out with the animals, but his childhood was not idyllic. Noel suffered abuse in his early life and was bullied at secondary school. He has previously stated that his only friend during this difficult period was Pirate the farm dog. His father passed away in 2008 and Noel only opened up about his traumatic childhood experiences after his mother Rita passed away in February 2022, as he didn’t want to hurt his mother’s feelings. Noel moved to Guildford in 1993 after graduating from University College, Dublin with his degree in Veterinary Medicine. In 2005, he opened Fitzpatrick Referrals, one of the UK’s most renowned veterinary practices which employs over 170 staff over two sites. One centre in Eashing specialises in orthopaedics and neurosurgery, and the other in Guildford specialises in oncology and soft tissue surgery. Both hospitals have state-of-the-art surgical, diagnostic, and rehabilitation facilities, where pioneering work in keyhole surgery and biotechnology is led by Professor Fitzpatrick who is the Director and Managing Clinician.

of researchers and bio-engineers that work toward the development, manufacture and testing of custom-design implants. In 2016, Noel was contacted by Buckingham Palace and invited to discuss his work with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Noel has many celebrity clients, including Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex. In 2017, Ms Markle requested Noel’s help when her beloved dog broke two legs. Noel obviously did a great job of looking after Guy the beagle, as he managed to get an invitation to her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. As well as a prestigious career working with animals, Noel has also had several appearances as an actor. In ITV’s Heartbeat he played the local vet for a couple of episodes in 2002. He also appeared in ITV’s London’s Burning in 2001, BBC’s Casualty in 2005 and a few episodes of The Bill. Noel also acted in a horror film, The Devil’s Tattoo (2003), Live for the Moment (2004) and took the lead as Inspector Beckett in Framed (2008). Professor Noel Fitzpatrick is an internationally recognised innovator in the world of veterinary medicine. As such, he has been invited to speak at international events and has delivered over one thousand lectures around the globe. In 2018, Noel started to tour the UK and Ireland, discussing his early life in Ireland, his extraordinary work and accomplishments as a world-renowned veterinary surgeon, and talking about some of the inspirational animals that have touched his life. Since then the Supervet has toured national arenas in 2022 and 2023, entertaining and engaging audiences with his uplifting stories and anecdotes. In May 2014, Noel established the Humanimal Trust, creating a platform to share advances in both human and animal medicine. This collaborative forum has brought forward the concept of One Medicine, using the expertise of human doctors, vets, engineers, and scientists to benefit all living creatures.

After qualifying in Dublin, Noel went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania and attain a degree from the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and a Diploma in Small Animal Surgery specialising in orthopaedics. He also attended the University of Ghent and then completed the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons certificates in small animal orthopaedics and radiology. The list of letters after Professor Fitzpatrick’s name is as long as a couple of alphabets, MVB DSc (Hon) DUniv CertSAO CertVR DipACVSMR DipECVSMR DSAS(Orth) MRCVS. Noel has also created companies to help advance medical technology, Fitzbionics and FitzRegen. These biotechnology companies have teams

In 2009, Noel became the first veterinary surgeon to successfully attach a double front paw prosthesis for a cat named Oscar. In 2015, Noel and Oscar were awarded a Guinness World Records certificate in recognition of the achievement. Professor Noel Fitzpatrick has dedicated his life to animals and has never married or had children. He is very private about this aspect of his life. Noel has written three memoirs, all have made The Sunday Times bestseller list, and a children’s book Vetman and his Bionic Animal Clan. He has also written dozens of peer-reviewed papers of academic research and has received Doctorates from both the University of Bath and the University of Surrey for his contribution to medical science. By Emma Russell

Poetry Corner History Forgotten By LINK reader, Margaret Ryan Under the statue we would meet ‘Dickie Lewis’ here on Ranelagh Street Lewis’s Cafe downstairs for a cup of tea Whilst shoppers would be on a spending spree Gone forever this century-old department store Opposite the Adelphi, you are no more We pass by windy Paradise Street Enter into Dodo’s cafe and rest our tired feet Radio Merseyside you were here once too

Photo of the Month

Friends Meeting House and Moat House Hotel, it’s a restaurant with a wonderful view

“Blueberry Breakfast” by Tracy Dolan won the Still Life colour print competition. A simple idea, well executed! As they often say in photography “less is more”.

Businessmen, working mothers, shopper’s and ladies who lunch at two

Why not join other budding photographers with whom you can share your passion for photography?

Now we all have to buy a ticket and pay!

South Liverpool Photographic Society welcome all levels. Check out the syllabus on their website, www.slps.co.uk, and get in touch! Or email at membership@slps.co.uk

Closed like everything else, government cuts and all this doom and gloom.

Hotel foyer, celebrities and football stars exit to the BBC Studio

Oh what a luxury it was to park free in the Albert Dock all-day I remember the Conservation Centre, it’s Eros Statue and tea rooms

Thank you for sending in your wonderful poem, Margaret. If you are a budding poet and would like to share your work with our readers, please send your poems to liverpoollink@yahoo.co.uk

dog of the month

CAT of the month Meet our cats of the month - Narla, Rosie and Luna. This gorgeous little family of Mum and her two kittens, having survived winter living in a shed in a very kind lady’s garden who provided essential food and shelter, are now looking for their forever home together. They are so closely bonded after all they’ve been through together that we couldn’t possibly split them up. If you think you could be that wonderful New Year present of a forever home for Narla and her kittens, please phone 07717 164038 or email us at info@garstonanimalrescue.com, or message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/garstonanimalrescue. With many thanks to The LINK - your support to us is so appreciated.

ARLO, 2-YEAR-OLD LURCHER Arlo is a wonderfully energetic lad, who settles very well into most situations. He loves his walks and gets so excited to see his harness, and can’t wait to get out and see his friends! Once he is out, he walks well on his lead, enjoying exploring and meeting other dogs (although he can be rather keen on the little ones!). He is a super Lurcher who has eyebrows that look as if someone has drawn them on, and they never fail to raise a smile from people! Arlo travels very well in the car so looks forward to lots of trips out with his new family. He can live with other dogs and children over the age of 12. If you think Arlo could be the four-legged friend you are looking for, you can find out more by visiting Dogs Trust Merseyside’s page at www.dogstrust.org.uk. You can also follow the doggy ‘tails’ on X @DT_Merseyside and Instagram, @dogstrust_merseyside.

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Strange Tales The Man Who Loved Glasses George Lyte had an unusual hobby, one that kept everyone amused and entertained and guaranteed to liven up a dinner party. He had the lightest touch and employed this skill playing tunes on drinking glasses. It started on a visit to family friends, the Arbuthnots, at their large detached house in Mossley Hill one winter’s evening. Hermione Arbuthnot was helping to remove his overcoat when he spotted a large wine glass on a side table. The shimmering glass seemed to call out to him, recalling a memory of his grandfather playing glasses to entertain the children. After he finished the wine, George found himself running his finger along the edge of the glass. He loved the strange, haunting sound. “Another glass?” asked Hermione innocently. “Yes please but a smaller one,” he replied, wanting to experiment. From that moment, George resolved to become an expert - he felt he had an inbred talent to produce amazing sounds. Junk shops and jumble sales became his happy hunting grounds. George soon amassed a large collection of glasses of all shapes and sizes. Each one was chosen for its distinctive sound. George found his touch improving constantly. He went into his study where he was cocooned from all distractions - he needed absolute quiet. Lining the glasses up, he deftly moved among them, his fingers drawing out the most subtle melodies.

by Anton Valdemart

“George really loves those glasses and some of them were pretty expensive,” his wife Hetty told a friend. “I jokingly suggested he might try jam jars but he called me a philistine.” Despite the gentle mockery, George became so skilful that he was invited to give after-dinner recitals. His version of the 1812 Symphony had his audiences begging for more. Soon he was able to play requests ranging from Gilbert and Sullivan to the latest hits. George then decided the works of some of the greatest composers were not worthy of his skills. He pledged to create his own masterpiece, one that would stretch his talents to the limits. His fingers ached in anticipation. Spending long hours into the night, George tried every note and variation - from the bottom to the top of every known range. He stroked the edges of the glasses until his fingers were numb. Finally, a date was fixed for his recital. He appeared on the church hall stage surrounded by dozens of glasses. The audience of friends and relatives waited in anticipation. George started slowly, tenderly producing the most subtle notes from the neatly arranged glasses. Slowly, the work progressed before the pace grew faster and faster. He moved around the stage in wild excitement. The notes rose higher and higher under his frenzied fingers. Some of the audience plugged their ears, trying to block the painful sounds. Higher, higher, higher... then there was an explosion as all the glasses shattered at once, plus the vicar’s spectacles. Luckily no one was hurt. Read my next Strange Tale in the Link: A Day in the Country.

Kids

Corner

ANSWERS ON PAGE 26

Managing Money for Children a lower rate of interest but you can withdraw money at any time. Savings accounts generally run for a set amount of time and encourage children to save a set amount every month, they offer a slightly higher rate of interest in return.

Hoping to teach your children to look after their pennies and pounds and keep them safe? Most parents start with a piggy bank, encouraging children to put a little bit of their pocket money in. But what else can we do to help children manage their money and learn the importance of saving for the future?

Junior Cash ISAs are also a great savings option for children as they pay no tax on the interest they earn. Children are limited to one Junior Cash ISA and one Junior Stocks and Shares ISA, but you may be able to transfer these accounts to different providers. You can open the account as a parent, and the child can only withdraw the money after their 18th birthday.

People of a certain age will remember the NatWest children’s account piggy banks of the 1980s, and some banks still offer a money box or gift when a child opens a bank account. If you look at comparison websites, you will get an idea of the type of accounts and levels of interest that are available for children in the UK. You can set up an account on behalf of a child aged up to eighteen, with as little as £1. They can start managing their bank account from the age of seven. This is a great way to teach children money management skills and help them develop good saving habits. Online bank GoHenry’s is a great example of this. Their debit card and app lets kids ages 6-18 learn practical money management skills that they can go out and apply in the real world. For saving, there are two main types of children’s savings accounts: instant access and a regular savings account. Instant access provides

If you invest in a Junior stocks and shares ISA, they are ‘tax efficient’ as their investment is free of any Capital Gains liability or Income Tax regulation. Just like the adult world of stocks and shares investments, Junior ISA investments can go up and down in value. The current limit on Junior ISAs is £9000 a year for the 2023-24 tax year, but this could change at any time. This article is for information only. Please contact a financial adviser for specific information and professional guidance. By Emma Russell

07840 858 193

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Recipe: Beetroot Burger Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Makes: 8 burgers

Perfect for those trying to reduce their meat consumption or boost their 30 plants a week challenge. This beetroot burger is full of flavour and such a pretty colour that it’s the perfect Valentine’s Day fayre!

Ingredients ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

1 onion, quartered 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing 2 garlic cloves, crushed 200g mushrooms (chestnut are good) 250g tofu 100g cooked beetroot (about 2-3 beetroot bulbs) 1 x 400g can black beans, drained 1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tbsp (vegan) mayonnaise 1 tbsp miso paste 100g oat flour 2 tbsp ground flaxseed 50g pecans 200g cooked brown rice (75g dry rice is approximately 200g cooked)

Method Put the onion in a food processor and pulse until the texture of cooked rice. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan, add the onion and fry for 10 minutes until soft and pale golden. Add the garlic and fry for another minute. Remove, add to a large bowl and set aside. Now pulse the mushrooms in the food processor until as small as the onions. Heat the remaining oil in the pan, add the mushrooms and fry for 10-15 minutes, until any liquid released has evaporated and the mushrooms are tender. Add to the onions. Place the tofu, black beans, beetroot, miso paste, tomato purée, mayonnaise, flour, and flaxseed into the food processor and blitz until smooth. Add seasoning then mix this with the cooked veg. Pulse the pecans and half the cooked rice in the food processor until finely chopped. Add this mixture and the remaining rice to the veg too. Using your hands, shape the mixture into little burger-shaped patties. Vegetable burgers are more fragile than meat so chill in the fridge or freezer for at least 30 minutes before cooking. To cook, heat a frying pan over a medium heat. Brush both sides of the burgers with a little oil. Cook for 5-8 mins on each side, turning once after a crust has formed, until hot through to the centre.

Puzzle & Quiz Answers Crossword

Sudoko

Quizzes GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

MUSIC QUIZ

1. Hungary

1. American Pie (Don McLean)

2. Nigeria 3. The FBI 4. Mark Twain 5. Mons 6. Catherine Howard 7. Thunderbirds 8. 1953 9. River Wear 10. Edinburgh

KIDS ANSWERS: bacon, fried egg, coffee, toast, baked beans, sausage. Extra letter answer: orange

2. Ten Years After 3. Pray 4. Huey Lewis and the News 5. Kylie Minogue 6. Let Me Entertain You 7. Aretha Franklin 8. Elvis Costello 9. Pet Shop Boys 10. The Big Bopper

South Liverpool FC on the rise 2024 could prove to be very special for South Liverpool FC and that’s not just for the club’s first team. Since the end of September, South’s North West Counties League team have remained unbeaten in league fixtures and have reached second place (the club’s highest-ever position since returning to semi-professional football in 2021) and are very much in contention for the play-offs (qualifying in second to fifth place in the division). The club have actually only played seven league fixtures since the end of September and have won four and drawn three but will be concentrating on league fixtures over the next three months.

Highlights of the last few months have been an excellent 4-1 win over Holker Old Boys to make progress in the league cup and a fantastic run in the FA Vase culminating in a loss on penalties to Lincoln United in the fourth round - only four matches before Wembley! Several other excellent results have resulted in three Club of the Month awards in September, October and December the club had previously only ever won one. The club’s reserves have reached the top of the West Cheshire League second division and, along with their main rivals Mallaby, look likely to be favourites to achieve promotion to the top division. The team also remain in two cup competitions and so have a real chance of a treble.

South Liverpool FC’s three youth teams all have realistic chances of winning their respective leagues. Each have three games in hand and the Sunday under 17s and Saturday under 18s are amongst the favourites to win their respective County Cups.

The club’s third adult team are also in contention for promotion to the premier division of the Liverpool Premier League although there are at least six teams in contention. The team are also still in two cup competitions and still have a chance of the treble.

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