South Liverpool LINK - Jun/Jul 2023

Our Specialist Medical Negligence Team have been assisting clients who have suffered injuries arising from medical negligence for over 15 years. Whilst our team assist clients all over the country, we are proud to offer our services in our Allerton and Garston Village offices.

Over the last 15 years we have recovered millions of pounds in compensation for our clients, many of whom have been unable to continue working and required external support and adaptations to their homes as a consequence of failures in their medical care.

As well as failures within the heath sector we do also come across excellent medical care. In fact, very often when approached by clients who have concerns about medical treatment at private or NHS hospitals our initial advice is that they utilise the hospital’s own internal complaints procedure. Our experience is that it is often only a lack of communication which has led them to believe there has been a failure in their care resulting in a poor or unexpected outcome. Once they have raised their concerns and they have been properly answered, many clients are often reassured and can move on with their lives.

Sadly, we are however required to represent clients in cases where there is not a simple explanation or the explanation provided to them by the treatment provider is not acceptable.

client X’s story

One such case concerned a lady who underwent knee replacement surgery in order to improve her mobility. The treatment was funded by NHS but had been referred out to a private treatment centre. The surgery failed, as did restorative treatment and rather than improving her mobility, she was left wheelchair bound. Her family raised complaints with the surgeon and complained in writing but were reassured that the poor outcome was just one of those things and a risk of any surgery. We investigated and obtained independent expert evidence from an orthopaedic surgeon and discovered that a basic surgical mistake had been made in regards to the primary surgery.

Had the correct technique been used the outcome would have been good and her mobility restored. Instead the damage caused to the knee was irreversible and she had been left permanently wheelchair bound and totally reliant on the support of others. We put formal allegations to the Defendant Hospital and liability was quickly admitted in full. A settlement was negotiated including funds to allow our client to adapt her home and receive assistance from carers for the rest of her life.

’s story

Another case concerned a young woman who developed cervical cancer. There had been some early signs and she had attended her GP and was referred for screening tests which were performed. She was reassured that these were all clear. Cancer was later diagnosed by which time it was advanced and she had a 5cm tumour of the uterine cervix and required radiotherapy and chemotherapy and the treatment resulted in the premature onset of the menopause and consequent infertility. Owing to physical and psychological problems she was unable to return to work on a full-time basis. She complained about a delay in diagnosis but was reassured that the appropriate tests had been conducted. She was reassured that nothing more could have been done. We were instructed and investigated the case and as part of that investigation obtained evidence from an independent histopathologist. This evidence indicated that the early cervical smears had in fact been reported incorrectly by the Defendant Trust which was completely unacceptable. Had they been reported correctly as showing early signs of cancer, as they should have been, a simple procedure could have been performed avoiding all of the long-term consequences. We obtained admissions of liability and a substantial damages award which included compensation for her injuries, her loss of earnings and perhaps most importantly funds to allow her to pay for the future lifelong medical treatment that she would now require. We are here to represent the injustices you have suffered and ensure that clients receive full and fair compensation.

Richard Malloy is a Solicitor and Head of Medical Negligence at Gregory Abrams Davidson Solicitors. GAD are Solicitors who specialise in obtaining compensation for clients who have sustained injuries as a result of Medical Negligence. We deal with claims for compensation against hospitals (both NHS and Private), dentists, general practitioners, pharmacists and opticians. We have offices in Liverpool City Centre, Allerton, Garston Village, West Kirby and Golders Green, London. We offer a free initial case assessment and No Win No Fee Funding is available. To enquire contact a member of our Medical Negligence new enquiries team on 0151 733 3353, email info@gadlegal.co.uk or search GAD legal and complete our online enquiry form.

Hello everyone!

Welcome to your June/July issue of the Liverpool LINK.

WOW! What a spring it has been for Liverpool. The city was well and truly gripped with Eurovision fever and whether you are a fan or not, you have to admit that the city was buzzing! I didn’t get to as many events in the village as I would have liked but I enjoyed a lovely walk around the docks on the day of the final and it was a wonderful atmosphere. So amazing to see people from all over the world enjoying our wonderful city.

But now attention shifts to the summer. Yes, June is the official start of summer, and the solstice on Wednesday 21st June is the longest day of the year. While we have seen some lovely sunny days, we haven’t had a heatwave (at time of print!) that we often get earlier in the year so I am crossing my fingers that it’s all being saved for a wonderful summer instead.

We have seen quite a few new advertisers join us over the last few months so I would like to take this chance to welcome them and wish them all the best with their businesses going forward. Delighted to have you aboard!

Until next time, stay safe and don’t forget to tell our very valued advertisers that you saw it in The LINK!

All the best, Moira (editor) and everyone at The LINK

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

DIScLAIMer - TerMS & coNDITIoNS - Liverpool LINK (i.e. South Liverpool LINK, West Derby LINK & Little LINK Directories)

& 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 rst class 24 hour service and building strong everlasting relations with you and your family at this very di cult time.

local history

Studying old maps, paintings and photographs and comparing them to modern views reveals constant changes to our surroundings. Nowhere is frozen in time, with the possible exception of heritage sites or protected structures - even then there are subtle changes for maintenance or safety.

Built-up areas are more or less always altering as communities adjust to innovations and new needs.This is particularly true of transport demands - it can be argued that the arrival of motors in the 1890s heralded possibly the greatest transformations. Population growth is also a dominant factor as the demands of more people need to be met. Transport improvements coupled with increased populations were major factors in the growth of suburbs in the 19th century.

Some places remain relatively and reassuringly unchanged. A tinted postcard shows Sefton Park in the early 1900s. It is instantly recognisable today although closer study reveals changes. It was among the many parks and open spaces created by the Victorians to provide free access to fresh air and naturalistic surroundings.

Before the park’s creation, the area was open countryside bisected by a stream flowing south. An 1850 map shows it flowing through a drain under Smithdown Lane (later Road) then on to Ullet Hall before meandering through what is now Sefton Park. It eventually reached the Mersey at Otterspool. The stream is still there, feeding Sefton Park lake and enhancing other man-made features such as the grotto.

Liverpool Corporation purchased 375 acres of land from the Earl of Sefton for the new park, hence the name. It was opened in 1872 by one

by Stephen Guy

of Queen Victoria’s sons, Prince Arthur. He led a mile-long procession of 77 carriages from the Town Hall for the official opening. Among the spectators were 4,000 people packed into a grandstand.

The much-loved Palm House is not an original feature, dating from 1896. The Peter Pan statue - a copy of the original in London’s Kensington Gardens - was unveiled in 1928. A nearby circular Deer Park is marked on a 1908 map.

Sefton Park was once served by a train station although it was some distance away on Smithdown Road overlooking Wavertree Playground’s gates. Opened in 1892, Sefton Park Station had four platforms and trains served Garston Dock as well as other destinations including Chester and Manchester. It closed in 1960.

Learn more about the history of Liverpool at the Museum of Liverpool, pier Head, admission free.

Strange Tales

The Miser

“These accounts are one penny out!” exclaimed The Miser, his scrawny hands grasping wildly at imaginary money bags. Anderson stood aloofly, towering above his master looking down inscrutably at his bald head clad in a fading headscarf. The Miser was Sir Anthony Pernickety, one of Liverpool’s wealthiest citizens and Anderson his factotum and general dogsbody.

“Look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves,” added The Miser. “Find that penny!” “You’re standing on it, “ said Anderson, looking haughtily at The Miser’s feet. There it was, half concealed under an expensive but shabby slipper. The Miser humphed then bent down awkwardly and picked up the coin, biting it and putting it in his pocket.

“It shouldn’t be there but in the accounts,” he said grudgingly. With that parting shot he retreated to his counting house where Anderson shortly heard the tinkling of money being counted. “He should know I rarely make mistakes,” thought Anderson.

The house was furnished with fine pictures on the walls, crystal chandeliers in the hall and elaborate antique furniture in every room. Anderson mused that his employer was right about counting the pennies but wrong about the pounds looking after themselves. “I do thatwith him looking over my shoulder,” he told himself.

He said as much to housekeeper Mrs Sieve, another long-suffering member of The Miser’s staff. She had just come in from her weekly dancing lesson

by Anton Valdemart

with Gaye Abandon, the local can-can teacher. It was one of the few breaks she could take away from the scrutiny of The Miser. “One day his miserable world will come crashing down on his head,” said Mrs Sieve.

As well as caring for his pennies, The Miser bought and sold pictures regularly. One of the reasons he employed Anderson was because he was tall and could hang pictures easily, often without a ladder. “I want you to take that one down,” The Miser told him one morning, indicating a painting of a man hunched over his desk in a gloomy study, coins strewn on his desk. “Can’t understand why that appealed to me in the first place.” Anderson smiled.

The buyer – an art collector called Hercules Baggscame round the following day to make payment and collect his purchase. Anderson observed the visitor carefully. He had gimlet eyes and grasping hands just like The Miser. “I want to pay in pennies,” said Hercules, indicating a large Gladstone bag. The Miser’s eyes lit up as Anderson counted the coins carefully. “All correct,” he said.

“Put them on top of the wardrobe with the rest,” said The Miser after Hercules had departed with the picture under his arm. Anderson and Mrs Sieve later thought it was a fitting end. The Miser was crushed by the enormous amount of money cascading on to his head when he opened the wardrobe. “I’ve counted every penny and it’s all there,” Anderson told Mrs Sieve at the funeral.

read my next Strange Tale in the Link: Ghostly Garb.

Photo of the Month

Liverpool Photographic Society. “I took this image of Megan, an aerial artist, practising on New Brighton beach during sunset at a recent photography meetup”.

See more of SLPS members’ work in their Annual Exhibition to be hosted by Wilkinson Cameras, 4 Bold Street. Admission is FREE from Monday 30th July to Saturday 6th August.

Check out the syllabus on their website, www.slps.co.uk, and get in touch if you would like to join! Call/text 07783 335 353 or email Tim, membership@slps.co.uk

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/soil, 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.

Their competitive prices start from as low as £10 and they also offer a same-day removal service.

for more information, visit their website at www.wastewizardliverpool.co.uk

Bedroom Trends for Summer 2023

This year’s most significant bedroom trend can work with any sense of style, you just need to create a ‘retreat’. Any kind of soothing environment is fashionable, and that can look very different from person to person. The ’Japandi’ look takes the natural elegance of the Japanese aesthetic, sleek and functional, and adds modern Scandinavian design features. It’s all about neutral tones and natural materials that provide a minimalist look, yet remain welcoming and homely. This palette uses muted colours on walls and textiles, which compliments any bedroom with plenty of light. It’s all about different layers of texture, on the bed, on the floor and even on the walls. Bedding should be cool and comfortable for the summer, but with optional extra throws and covers, mix chunky knit blankets with plenty of soft pillows and covered cushions. Surround yourself with tactile, soothing textures, elements like stone, wood, terracotta and lush green plants, that can provide a grounding atmosphere which is very calming. It should all have a sense of snugness, that Scandinavian idea of ‘Hygge’.

You may prefer to use colour to create positive energy in your bedroom or provide a dose of drama to awaken the senses. This could be one shade all over walls, or accents of colour on furniture, headboards or bedding. Rich colours can add depth, dark teal and pale pink have been popular colour combinations in design magazines for the past few seasons. To complement

this colour scheme, your décor might be more glamourous, silky sheets or touches of art deco. Metallic finishes could be brushed gold, bronze or champagne to add warmth.

Another summer trend is the addition of tropical accents, everything from jungle palm prints to pineapples and flamingos. This look is kitsch and fun, and in terms of a ‘retreat’ it gives your bedroom the vivacious vibe of a well-deserved staycation. Surround yourself with things that appeal to all your senses and make you feel good, scented candles, colourful artwork and maybe even a tropical playlist.

Creating a retreat gives you an opportunity to escape from the real world and into the privacy of your bedroom. Relaxation is the aim, and personalisation is the key to success. Whether you choose subdued lighting or a reading lamp, blackout blinds or billowing curtains, this personal space is about whatever makes you feel good.

St George’s Hall gets Royal seal of approval

St George’s Hall has placed the Royal Cypher of King Charles III on the famous Willis Organ in the Great Hall.

The cypher is the Sovereign’s official monogram, consisting of the initials of the monarch’s name, Charles, and title, Rex – Latin for King, alongside a representation of the crown.

The trustees of St George’s Hall commissioned the artwork to commemorate the accession to the throne of King Charles III.

The Grade I-listed structure is one of His Majesty’s favourite buildings, and he officially reopened it in 2007 following restoration work.

Life 'n' Style

with Jade Ainsworth

Hey guys!

over to the hospitality area where we were treated like film stars. The food, the drink, the music… everything was just perfect. Inside the arena was just unbelievable! The lights, the atmosphere, the contestants. Everything was

just WOW! It was just an unforgettable experience that I feel so lucky to be a part of. What an amazing achievement for our city. Well done to everyone involved.

So summer is finally here, and I have some amazing swimwear and cover-ups to show you. Designer look at a high street price! Matalan have brought out two new online swimwear ranges, Be Beau and Et Vous. Both these collections have been online but this year they have expanded the range into bikinis, costumes, cover-ups and shorts. They are just gorgeous and for a price that won’t break the bank. Don’t forget this range is online only and not available in the stores.

If you know me, you will know pink is my favourite colour, so I must show you the Et Vous Pink One Shoulder Swimming Costume for £21. This is also available in black. Honestly, the quality of everything in both these ranges is fabulous, you won’t be disappointed but there’s too much to show you. If you go over to my Instagram @jade_ainsworth you will be able to see a lot more.

And for some holiday outfits, then I recommend @jessica___boutique on Instagram. I have so many outfits from them, and they have new items every week for all age ranges and sizes.

That’s it for me, but I will be back next time with some more outfit ideas and inspiration.

Love, Jade x

Since I started advertising with The Link, I have seen my business inundated with enquiries. I would estimate around 90% of the business I get comes from my advert in The Link and as a result, I no longer need to invest in any other form of advertising. I’m thrilled with the results!

T. Delcher

Qu I z T IME

Music Quiz

1. The lyrics “I drew a line, I drew a line for you….” are from which Coldplay song? (c) Clocks (b) Trouble (c) Yellow

2. Gene Simmons was a member of which band? (a) ACDC (b) Kiss (c) Van Halen?

3. “Run the World (Girls) was a 2011 single by (a) Beyonce (b) Katy Perry (c) Lady Gaga?

4. “Chain of Fools” was a 60s hit for (a) James Brown (b) Aretha Franklin (c) Dusty Springfield?

5. No Doubt had a 90s hit with (a) Don’t Cry (b) Don’t Go or (c) Don’t Speak?

6. The “E” in E.L.O. stands for (a) Eclectic (b) Electric (c) Elegant?

7. Which one of the following E.L.O. singles featured Olivia Newton-John on vocals (a) Hold on Tight (b) Mr Blue Sky (c) Xanadu?

8. The 2010 England World Cup song “Shout” (James Corden & Dizzee Rascal) was written & originally recorded by (a) Go West (b) Roxy Music (c) Tears for Fears?

9. Who shared the vocals with Rihanna on the single “What’s My Name” (a) Drake (b) Eminem (c) Usher?

10. What was Robbie Williams’ first solo No.1 single? Was it: (a) Freedom (b) Let Me Entertain You or (c) Millennium?

General Knowledge

1. What was the (approx.) population of Liverpool in 1550? (a) 600 (b) 6,000 (c) 60,000?

2. In which century was the borough of Liverpool founded? (a) 11th. (b) 12th. (c) 13th?

3. In which film did Robert de Niro star as the boxer Jake la Motta? (a) Raging Bull (b) Rocky (c) The Boxer?

4. Which one of the following is not a Rodgers & Hammerstein musical? (a) South Pacific (b) The Sound of Music (c) West Side Story?

5. The fictional character d’Artagnan appears in which book? (a) A Tale of Two Cities (b) Tess of the d’Urbevilles (c) The Three Musketeers?

6. What sport would you be playing if you were standing on the oche? (a) darts (b) hockey (c) snooker?

7. In football, which team do Barcelona play in the Barcelona “local derby”? (a) Espanyol (b) Getafe (c) Levante?

8. What would you expect a somnambulist to do? (a) sleep-walk (b) walk on a tightrope or (c) ring church bells?

9. What does a numismatist collect? (a) beer-mats (b) coins (c) sea shells?

10. What does a philatelist collect? (a) photographs (b) postcards (c) stamps?

Solutions on page 24

B. JENKINS & SONS

Family Undertakers - Established 1880

141 Years of Dedicated and Caring Service from our Family to Yours

The oldest family funeral service in Liverpool with over 141 years of dedicated personal service.

We tailor our services to suit each individual family and their needs.

A true family concern...

Mr Gary Jenkins, Mr Jimmy Jenkins, Miss Sheila Jenkins, Mr Andrew Jenkins, Mr Tony Jenkins, Mr Alex Jenkins, Miss Chloe Jenkins

24 HOUR SERVICE

Office & Private Chapels of Rest 4 Church Road North, Wavertree, Liverpool, L15 6TF (by Picton Clock)

For help and advice on funeral arrangements

Please call 0151 733 7201 enquiries@bjenkinsandsons.co.uk www.bjenkinsandsons.co.uk

Available

Connoisseur

Trevor Langley’s Guide to Wine & Spirits

Wines: Some Favourite Whites

Many people enjoy a glass of white wine and, certainly, white wines (as do reds and other drinks) accompany numerous dishes too. White wines tend to be very popular to pair with fish, seafood and white meat dishes, whilst reds are great with red meats and steaks, etc. Sweet wines are a favourite with a good number of desserts – even some being poured over ice cream – splendid! For this quest, I looked at white wines, which are excellent on their own but can be paired with a lot of cuisines.

ALVARINHO (12% vol) from Portugal is an extremely popular Vinho Verde DOC. This production is made in partnership with Casal de Ventozela, in northern Portugal. With grapes sourced from vineyards situated close to the Atlantic Ocean and keeping the wine on its lees for four months, following fermentation, this defines the stone fruit flavours, including apple and peach and enhances the richness of this wine.

VERDECA (12.5% vol) from Italy is a further very popular choice for many. This IGP production graces many dining tables, constantly. Produced in partnership with San Marzano, in the Puglia region of southern Italy, this wine has additional ‘comforts’, by including a little Sauvignon Blanc and Malvasia Bianca to the blend, to promote citrusy overtones. It is then aged in French oak barrels, for three months, to produce its elegance.

SAUVIGNON BLANC (12.5% vol) from New Zealand, again, is selected regularly by white wine lovers. Made in partnership with Yealands Estate,

this wine hails from Marlborough, which is known for cool nights and warm days that forward the fruit flavours for this production.

There are many more white wines that are selected very often and –as they say, ‘each to their own’. I have my preferences and please, take the time and pleasure to locate your favourites. I located these wines at a Morrisons store. I found them in their ‘the Best’ range.

As always, enjoy!

Trevor Langley

KidsCorner

CAT of the month

Meet Ozzy, one of the latest admissions to our care. A very friendly boy, who deserves better than what was on the cards for him prior to rescue. The jury is still out on his age but we understand that he is around 14 or 15 years old. All he wants is somewhere to sleep peacefully and someone to chat to him (he’ll chat for England!).

If you think he could be the rescue cat you need in your life, please contact us on 07717 164038 or email info@garstonanimalrescue. com. You can also message us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/garstonanimalrescue. We’re happy to give any information you need about him. With huge thanks to The LINK for their continued support of Garston Animal Rescue.

dog of the month

NAMe: pip

AGe: 8

BreeD: crossbreed

Pip is a timid boy who has captured everyone’s hearts, and he loves nothing more than snuggling up next to one of his favourite people. He’s a very tactile dog who enjoys company and affection. He had a poor start to life and now finds himself in need of a home again due to his owner’s ill health.

Pip is a little overwhelmed by kennel life but his confidence has improved since his arrival, with lots of encouragement from his carers. Pip loves to be with people and his ideal home would have someone there with him most of the day. He can be worried by other dogs but will walk with quiet calm friends. Pip has a small tumour in his mouth that is benign, but unable to be removed due to the location. He can live with children of high school age.

If you think Pip 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 Twitter @DT_Merseyside and Instagram, @dogstrust_merseyside

Seasonal Treats for June

The British summer food season starts picking up pace this month, with berries galore and savoury treats, too. Here are three of the best.

Strawberries

Yes, we know you can buy strawberries all year round, either grown in the UK under glass in cooler weather or imported from warmer climes, but there’s nothing like a freshly picked strawberry ripened under the English sun. Supermarket offerings can tend to be bland, especially Elsanta, which is grown more for its shelf-life than flavour, but Malling Centenary is juicy and sweet.

Strawberries are wonderful eaten on their own, dipped in yoghurt, or with sugar and cream as an indulgent treat. For a super-healthy twist, serve with balsamic vinegar, basil or black pepper to enhance their flavour. They are best stored in the fridge, with their stalks intact, then taken out a couple of hours before eating to reach room temperature.

Turbot

Wild turbot is in excellent condition in June. A large flat fish with firm white flesh and, unusually, no scales, it’s expensive but incredibly meaty, so a little goes a long way. It can be steamed, poached, baked, roasted or even cooked in a spicy curry, but probably the best results come from simply grilling or pan-frying gently with lemon, butter and a little black

pepper. To check it’s cooked through, slide a knife into the thickest section, and if it feels hot when withdrawn, your turbot is ready to eat.

Wild thing: elderflowers

The glorious scent of creamy white elderflowers is unmissable in June. These tiny flowers grow in huge clusters from elder trees and shrubs, and you’ll find them everywhere from roadside hedgerows and woods to scrub and wasteland. Like elderberries, they are edible but slightly toxic when raw, so they should be eaten cooked. Try them dipped in a light batter, deep-fried and served dusted with sugar for an eye-catching dessert – perfect paired with berries. Elderflowers can also be used to make vinegar and, of course, the classic cordial. They are best picked in the late afternoon on a sunny day when they are holding more pollen and therefore more flavour. Give the sprigs a good shake to dislodge any insects before using.

June’s shopping list:

English asparagus, beetroot, broad beans, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, courgette, cucumber, garlic, lettuce, new potatoes, peas, sugar snaps, radish, rocket, rhubarb, spinach, watercress, raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries

By Gill Mullins, freelance writer and journalist at www.superhappycontent.com

Recipe: Bombay Potatoes

This simple but tasty dish packs a punch. Serve as a spicy supper or side dish made with in-season Jersey royals.

preparation time: 10 minutes

cooking time: Up to 20 minutes for boiling potatoes, 10-12 minutes to fry

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

■ 900g Jersey Royals

■ Thumb-sized piece of root ginger, peeled

■ 3 garlic cloves, peeled

■ 2 large ripe tomatoes

■ 4 tbsp vegetable oil

■ ¾ tsp cumin seeds

■ 1 tsp mustard seeds

■ 1 large onion, roughly chopped

■ 2/3 tsp turmeric

■ 2 tsp ground coriander

■ 1 tsp ground cumin

■ 1 tsp garam masala

■ ½-¾ tsp chilli powder

■ Large handful of chopped coriander leaves

■ Salt, to taste

Method

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the potatoes and boil until just tender. Allow to cool a little.

Quarter one tomato then blend together with the ginger and garlic. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, then add the cumin and mustard seeds. When the cumin starts to darken, add the onion. Cook for one minute then add the ginger and garlic mixture, the ground spices and salt.

Sauté gently for one to two minutes until the garlic smells cooked but is not burnt.

Slice the second tomato into thin wedges and add them to the frying pan. Stir well and cook the mixture for three to four minutes. Tip the potatoes into the pan and cook for three to five minutes allowing the flavours to be absorbed. Season to taste and finally stir in the chopped coriander before serving.

Across

Assuage, soothe (6)

Insurgent, mutineer (6)

Inscribe (4)

Disturbances, upsets (5-3)

Sterile (7)

Food staple (5)

Chat, utter (5)

High sea wave (7)

Traditional, devout (8)

Lively dance (4)

Sound system (6)

Indifference (6)

Down

1 Skin blemish (4)

2 Chess piece (6)

3 School pinafore (7)

4 Monk (5)

5 Person who behaves affectedly (6)

6 Abnormal tissue growth (8)

12 Keep apart (8)

14 Never attracted to anyone (7)

16 Comply, heed (6)

18 Common, usual (6)

19 Turn of phrase (5)

22 Repetition (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.

Solutions on page 24

Africa Oyé - back for 2023

Thrilled to hear that the UK’s largest free celebration of African Music and Culture, is back for 2023, taking place on 17th & 18th of June in Sefton Park.

The Saturday of the two-day free festival will see dancehall and reggae artist, Tanya Stephens close proceedings, whilst the Sunday will be headlined by Seun Kutison of the legendary afrobeat star, Fela Kuti - with his band, Egypt 80.

Following an incredible 30th anniversary year in 2022, one of Merseyside’s most picturesque green spaces will once again be filled with the music and culture of Africa, the Caribbean and the Diaspora, for two days of live music, workshops, DJ stages, food stalls and a range of traders in the Oyé Village.

As always, entry is FREE. More information can be found at africaoye.com.

Photo credit: Mark McNulty

Parents urged to give their children a Healthy Start

Healthy Start is the national NHS-led scheme that supports eligible families to buy healthy

food and milk for children under four – but over £750,000 of funding is not being claimed in Liverpool, with an estimated one in three eligible families in England missing out.

Eligible families, as well as eligible women who are at least ten weeks pregnant, can apply for a card which is topped up every four weeks with funds that can be spent on plain milk, fresh,

frozen, or tinned fruit and vegetables, tinned or dry pulses, and infant formula. The card also allows pregnant women and parents to access free Health Start vitamins.

The Healthy Start card can be used with any retailer that accepts Mastercard and also in community food spaces as well as the Queen of Greens mobile greengrocer.

Grand Opening of Strawberry Field Forever Bandstand

The official grand opening of the Strawberry Field Forever Bandstand took place in Liverpool on 2nd May 2023.

It sits in the original Strawberry Field garden in Liverpool where John Lennon, as a child, used to jump over the wall into the grounds and listen to the Salvation Army band play.

Designed to be one of the most technologically advanced bandstands in the world it features cutting-edge computer lighting and sound equipment with facilities for broadcasting,

multi-track recording, streaming and full internet use. It also incorporates Bluetooth technology which allows visitors to enjoy performances via wireless headphones.

All money raised for events on the bandstand helps support the Salvation Army’s ‘Steps at Strawberry Field’, a series of programmes which provide employability skills training and valuable work placements for adults with learning difficulties and other barriers to employment.

Eurovision - united By Praise

Following the wonderful success of Eurovision, the critics, the visitors and the organisers are united in praise and thanks to Liverpool for hosting the event: ‘Thanks to all of you for an amazing time’, ‘The best production and host city we have ever seen’, ‘Please can Liverpool host every year’ and ’Douze points goes to Liverpool’.

Thousands of people visited Liverpool for the first time. Thousands of others saw Liverpool on their social feeds, or on their TV screens, and many of them will be choosing Liverpool as their next mini-break destination. Thousands of others were too busy attending the Eurovision shows

to see much of the city, they too will be back, to explore our city some more.

Now, attention turns to understanding the social, cultural and economic impact of hosting Eurovision. Early indicators reveal that residents are feeling more positive now than before the song contest arrived, that businesses prospered and that Liverpool’s identity as a UNESCO City of music has deepened.

Many more Eurovision-inspired events and installations are planned in the coming weeks.

What’s ON

f ree o

pe N cH o I r r e H e A r SAL

Free Open Choir Rehearsal held for any adults living in Halewood and L25. If you used to sing, or just sing in the shower, or have never sung, you will be very welcome to see how a choir learns to warm up, practice and improve songs. A new choir leader brings much fun and encouragement to Halewood Community Choir. Either join in or come to watch. Session at Halewood Academy, The Avenue, Halewood L26 1UU. 6-8pm on Friday 23rd June. Just turn up or ring 07918 86038

GA r D e N er S A r MS

B o WLING c LUB

Gardeners Arms Bowling Club are looking for members for their pensioners team (aged 55 or over) to play league bowls on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from now until the season ends in September. Our green is at the bottom of Broadgreen Rd, behind the Oakvale Care Home. Please ring Brian on 0151 228 7792.

eX Ne X Soc IAL 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.

S o UL TID e S

An immersive meditation experience with Andrew Lambe, performed on Nepalese temple gongs, crystal singing bowls and Ocean Drum. Invoking the regenerative energy of sound in the stunning surroundings of the Unitarian Church, Bullet Road, Liverpool 17. Bring a cushion/yoga mat. EVERY WEDNESDAY. Doors Open 6.45pm, commencement 7.00pm. Recommended Donation £6.

Puzzle

L IV erpoo L

B A c KGAMM o N cLUB

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

L IV erpoo L AND D IST r I c T c HA rAMBLING cLUB

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

A rT for p L e ASU re Mondays 1pm to 3pm Garston Reading Rooms, corner of Wellington Street and Chapel Road. Starting 7th of March. 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

pe NN y LAN e JAZZ W or KSH op Meets Thursdays, 7-9PM, Elm Hall Methodist Church, Elm Hall Drive, L18 2DD. £10 Admission. Led by Liverpoolbased 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.

ALL SAINTS c HILDWALL

All Saints Childwall will be open to visitors each Sunday afternoon 2-4pm from May 28th- Sept 18th (which will be Heritage Weekend).

S orop TIMIST INT er NATI o NAL

We are a group of women who seek to advance the status of women and girls through education, empowerment and enablement. We do this in friendship through service projects, fund-raising and advocacy. We meet every fourth Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Meetings are being held on Zoom at present. For further details contact us at liverpoolsorops@gmail.com, text 07814 564649 or via website www.sigbi.org/liverpool

f L e X erc IS e c LASS for TH e A c TIV e 50+ Exercise, movement and dance class: low impact to help improve posture, balance, muscle strength, core and range of movement. Mondays 12.30pm and 1.45pm. 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

S o UTH LIV erpoo L

p H oT o G r A p HI c S oc I e T y

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

po LI ce SU r G ery W oo LT o N 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

S o UTH LIV erpoo L MA r K e TS

farmers’ Markets are open from 9am to 2pm on the following days:

G A r STo N M A r K e T - Fridays 9am to 2pm. Woolton Village, L25 7RG – Second Saturday of the month.

G A rTHDAL e r oAD - off Allerton Road, L18 (next to Barclays Bank) - Third Saturday of the month.

L A r K L AN e - L17 8UP – Fourth Saturday of the month. Subject to Covid restrictions.

fudge, chews, sherbets, lollipops. Extra letter answer: toffee

Solar Panels

Britain faced a tough winter, with rising fuel prices and energy costs. Homeowners are now looking for ways to save money and make their homes more energy efficient, in preparation for next winter. Many consumers are considering using ‘green’ or renewable energy, ecofriendly options that are better for the planet as well as your pocket. It’s estimated that around a million homes in the UK now have solar panels, one of the most popular home improvements of the past decade.

panel consists of cells which are made up of layers of a semi-conducting material, usually silicon, that converts light into electricity. Solar tiles and

Using solar energy will reduce your carbon footprint, something a lot of consumers are considering as we learn more about the effects of climate change. The electricity you generate from your solar panels can be directly used to power your home, and any surplus power can be sold back to the grid. This relatively small income could help offset the initial financial outlay of installation, but it won’t necessarily make you rich.

much electricity your household consumes and how much you are willing to spend on the installation.

Solar panels often don’t require planning permission, as they are considered ‘permitted developments’. However, you should check with your local planning office in case any exceptions apply. Listed buildings, national parks and conservation areas have tight restrictions on alterations of properties, so check if any constraints apply.

In order to comply with regulations, you must register your solar PV system with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO), the company that supplies electricity to your home. Your installer will usually register the device for you, but you can research this on the UK Government website.

Satisfactory Season for South

The football season often feels like it may never end but most of South Liverpool’s teams are now in the close season as we enter mid-May.

The first team finished comfortably (in the end!) mid-table in their second season in the North West Counties League having had to replace the majority of the team’s stalwart players and reduced the average age of the squad by at least five years. The team reached two quarter finals but lost one on penalties to Abbey Hulton United having dominated the game and the other to the eventual runners-up Bacup Borough. The team scored more goals than every team bar the top two (both of whom got promoted) and finished three places higher than their debut season.

The reserves finished fourth, their highest-ever position in the second division of the West Cheshire League and credit must go to their

manager, Barry Roach, and his youthful backroom staff.

The third team, barring defeat in their final league game, should finish runners-up in the third division of the West Cheshire League, having lost only one league fixture since the end of August. Unfortunately, the team will be denied promotion yet again as the club have a team in the division above. Credit must go to the youthful management team of Tom Bagan and John Smith who took charge when the team were in the bottom half of the table.

The Youth team finished runners-up in the Youth division of the West Cheshire League despite being a year younger than their main rivals and must be ranked as one of the favourites to win the title next season.

Both Veterans teams had successful seasons –the Saturday team finished third in their division, their highest-ever position while the Sunday team won their division, dropping only two points all season - well done to manager Shaun Williams and his squad.

5 Strategies to Get Back Into the Fitness Habit

If you’ve been wondering how to kick-start your fitness regime but the thought of a treadmill or cross-trainer makes you want to dive back under the duvet, then don’t panic. When you look at fitness as being a lifestyle choice rather than a part-time hobby or 30-day challenge, your mindset changes and you start to develop behaviours that will improve many areas of your life.

1. Don’t change too quickly. Better to make small, incremental changes to your routine and gradually build up by choosing a couple of new healthy habits and practising them daily, such as drinking more water or getting an extra hour’s sleep.

2. find something you love doing. Consistency is key if you want to get fit. This means you need to find activities you love doing so you return to them again and again. If you love socialising with others, think about trying a team sport or doing a group fitness class like Zumba. If you’re working out for the mental health benefits, try activities that will help you relax, such as yoga or Pilates.

3. Move every day. You have more than 600 muscles in your body that need to be worked on a regular basis to stay functional. By moving, you are strengthening your muscles, which improves stability, balance, and coordination. That doesn’t mean a 5k run every day or bench-pressing your own body weight. Simple movements like a short walk around the block or 15 minutes of stretching exercises will do the trick.

4. Get outside more. With the approach of summer, there’s no excuse for staying indoors. It’s always more pleasant to exercise in the fresh air plus being out in nature has brilliant health, fitness and mind-boosting benefits.

5. Focus on the psychological benefits too. Concentrate on how you feel rather than how you look. This might mean being less out of breath when you climb stairs, sleeping better, or being more alert. Fitness is not always only about building muscle tone. Your age or current level of fitness doesn’t even come into it, because you’ll find that even small changes can deliver big results.

Getting fit need not involve gut-busting, no-pain-no-gain routines. Follow these simple steps and they will help ease you into a healthier lifestyle.

By Helen Say, a freelance copywriter www.cblservices.co.uk

AJP LANDSCAPES

ENGLISH and MATHS TUTORING, 10-16

Individual, professional support available for students from Year 6 to Year 11. Home visits, day or evening, seven days .You may need help with basic skills, to make up for time lost or to prepare for next year. Hypotenuse or Hyperbole, Sonnets or Sequencesall carefully and cheerfully explained by a qualified, graduate teacher continually employed in teaching, lecturing, research and tutorial work since 1972.