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Issue 131 – March 2018
GOTHIC REVIVAL
By Stephen Guy
THE enthusiastic student of architecture travelled hundreds of miles visiting ancient buildings including 3,000 churches. Thomas Rickman was born at Maidenhead in 1776 and had several jobs before moving to Liverpool where he became a pioneer of Gothic Revival in architecture. This movement resulted in the creation 19th century masterpieces from the Houses of Parliament to countless public and private buildings. He was a man with several hobbies including making an army of 5,000 model soldiers which he designed and painted. Rickman created an improved system of book-keeping which enabled him to get employment. He was soon involved in Liverpool’s growing cultural scene and was an early member of the Literary and Philosophical Society founded in 1812. His lecture on Grecian and Gothic architecture at the first session made a big impression. Rickman also became a lecturer in architecture at the Liverpool Academy attended by other enthusiasts.
0151 345 0501 OPEN Mon to Sat 6.30 am to 8pm Sun 6.30am to 6pm
INSIDE
WIN, WIN, WIN
Win tickets to The Salon at The Epstein Theatre
page 19
Strange Tales by Anton Valdemart
page 14
His talks were published and were read by other fans of Gothic, a style popular in Western Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Gothic Revival began slowly as it was taken up by architects and others who liked the medieval style. More and more people
followed the trend and in started to become fashionable. Rickman wrote about all styles of architecture and was influential because he classified different varieties making them simple and easy to understand. He was particularly supportive of Gothic architecture, believing it more suitable for Britain than Greek or Roman designs. Rickman teamed up with Liverpool iron founder John Cragg – the result was St George’s Church in Everton. This pioneering Gothic building was designed by Rickman and built mainly from Cragg’s iron. St Michael’s-in-theHamlet, pictured when it was surrounded by countryside, was opened in 1815.
Designed by Rickman, it is similar to St George’s and the iron again came from Cragg’s foundry. The two men designed and built a third church – St Philip’s in Hardman Street. Demolished in 1882, it was similar to the other two but had no tower. Although he began as an amateur with no formal training, Rickman went on to professionally design more buildings including churches in other parts of the country. He submitted designs for the new Parliament buildings but Sir Charles Barry’s were chosen. Rickman died in Birmingham in 1841, aged 64. n Learn more about the history of Liverpool at the Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head, open 10am to 5pm every day, admission free.
An interview with Tom Cotcher
page 8
Car review – Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian
page 23
LIFE ‘n’ STYLE with Jade Ainsworth
pages 12 & 13
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Congratulations to LINK reader Gladys Cuthbertson, who celebrated her 100th birthday. Gladys, a resident at Woolton Grange Care Home, was born in Birkenhead on 2 Feb 1918. Her father worked at Cammell Lairds at that time and at the age of 3 she moved to Holden Street in Liverpool 8 when her father joined the Cunard Line as a steward. Gladys’ first job was in Blacklers store but after it was bombed she joined Allmey and Layfield, where she made jam and Christmas puddings. She enjoyed swimming and knitting and her speciality was making knitted dolls and animals for local charity events. She was a regular visitor to the theatre and cinema and had holidays a number of times a year. After her retirement she moved to Woolton until at the age of 94 she developed dementia and moved to Woolton Grange Care Home where she is well looked after and entertained.
Colin to speak about ‘Orchids in the UK’ THE Friends of Harthill and Calderstones Park will meet at 7.15pm on Monday 12th March 2018 for the AGM followed by a talk by
Colin Twist on the ‘Orchids in the UK’. Meetings are held in Childwall Primary School on Woolton Road, Liverpool 16, the
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entrance to which is off Salisbury Park. A charge of £2 is made for visitors, who are most welcome to attend.
Society meeting GRASSENDALE Flower Arrangement Society will meet on Thursday March 8th when Debbie Davis from Formby will give a demonstration entitled “Through my Garden Gate”. Meetings are held in Dovedale Baptist Church Hall, in Olivedale Road. L18 1DW. The doors open at 7.30pm for meeting at 8pm. Visitors are welcome for a fee of £6.
Don’t forget – the clocks go forward on Sunday, March 25th.
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South Liverpool LINK – ‘at the heart of our community’ LINK Pick up points SUPERMARKETS Tesco Mather Avenue L18 Tesco Woolton L25 Sainsbury’s Woolton L25 Morrisons Speke 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, Aigburth Road, Liverpool 17 Aigburth Hall Nurseries, 5 Aigburth Hall Ave, L19 9EA South Liverpool NHS Treatment Centre (Old Garston Hospital) L19 Speke Treatment Centre NHS L24 Garston Urban Village Hall, 70 Banks Road L19 Citizens Advice Bureau, 2 Speke Road, L19 Brodie Convenience Store, 305 Brodie Ave., L19 NEWSAGENTS, ETC L13 Mill Lane News, 162 Mill Lane, Old Swan, L13 4AH L14 Bowring Park News, 152 Bowring Park Rd, L14 3NP L16 McNaughton’s, 250 Woolton Road, Childwall, L16 8NE L17 Keith’s Food & Wine Bar, Lark Lane, L17 L17 Prom News, 137 Aigburth Road, Aigburth Vale, L17 L18 Londis, 162-164 Greenhill Road, L18 7HN, 724 1824 L24 Hale News, Hale Village, L24 L25 Grange Lane Store, Gateacre Village, L25 L25 Super Cigs, Belle Vale Shopping Centre, L25 L25 Woolton Village Newsagents, Allerton Road, L25
What our advertisers are saying
Hi Moira Just a quick thank you again for the article in South Liverpool LINK about our forthcoming Macmillan Fundraiser at Mossley Hill Athletic Club. The concert was a complete sell-out and we could have sold even more tickets if it wouldn’t have exceeded the Club’s capacity. The thing is that the Club tell me that the vast majority of ticket buyers said that they saw the article in South Liverpool LINK. Thank you Paul
Hello everyone Welcome to the March edition of South Liverpool LINK. Can’t believe it’s March already! Dawn and I left the Echo 12 years ago this month - now that is scary! As the old saying goes “doesn’t time fly”……………… Don’t forget Mother’s Day on 11th March and why not do something special for your mum? It doesn’t have to cost a fortune - “it’s the thought that counts”! To celebrate Mother’s Day why not book a table at one of the restaurants featured in this edition, or tickets for John Lennon’s Banjo at the Epstein Theatre………………Whatever you do, enjoy Mother’s Day.
Another little reminder - the clocks go forward on Sunday 25th March too! Advertisers, firstly, thank you all for supporting the LINK, some of you have been advertising with us since the very first edition almost twelve years ago, that’s just amazing! Just a reminder to make sure you book your adverts in by deadline. Readers, thank you for enjoying the LINK and don’t forget to say you saw it in the LINK and keep supporting our advertisers. Exciting times ahead for the LINK. Watch this space! Enjoy March and see you next month Moira, Carol and Colette
To advertise call
Moira: 07930 654264 Carol: 07879 733266
www.liverpoollink.co.uk
Email: liverpoollink@yahoo.co.uk Address: 123 Penny Lane, Liverpool, L18 1DF
Booking deadline 14th March
(for following month’s edition)
Got a nice a story? Got some good news? Email us on liverpoollink@ yahoo.co.uk Get the latest LINK on the go! Subscribe at liverpoollink.co.uk to receive a PDF copy of The LINK straight to your email.
Moira Hesketh, editor
What our advertisers are saying
Dear Moira, I just wanted to let you know how happy I am with the service provided by The LINK and with you in particular, in the account handling of my business advertising. Your service from start to finish has been exemplary and on a professional, knowledgeable, yet friendly level that far exceeds all other advertising agencies I have dealt with. Nothing ever seems to be too much trouble to you and I am made to feel unique, never feeling that I am just one of many clients that you have to deal with each day. It is so refreshing to receive a prompt I have advertised in the LINK for 9 years and I would be lost without it now!!! Many thanks to you all at The LINK From Paul - P & L BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS (COMPLETE BATHROOMS & KITCHENS FULLY FITTED)
Watch this space!
LOCATE LILLY LINK AND WIN £10
This month Lilly Link is hiding on a page in LINK. Locate Lilly Link and write to us telling us which page she is hiding on and win £10. Send your name, address and telephone number along with the page number to: Lilly Link Comp Liverpool LINK, P.O. Box 170, Liverpool L25 7WX by March 14 The draw for the lucky winner will take place before the following month’s issue - so locate Lilly and you could win £10!
Mother’s Day Happy
LEAFLET - FLYER DELIVERY We can deliver your leaflets / flyers along with The LINK through the letterboxes of up to 23,000 of homes in South Liverpool and up to 12,000 homes in West Derby and Croxteth Park every month. From just £35 + vat* per 1000. (Minimum 3,000)
Call
07930 654264 or 07879 733266
*Price quoted is for up to size A4 single leaflets
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To advertise see page FOUR
Don’t forget – the clocks go forward on Sunday, March 25th.
Burglary
South Liverpool is experiencing high levels of burglary.
Burglars can easily snap standard locks on UPVC doors
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? (Stocktonwood Junior School)
LINK reader Anton Walker recently rediscovered this picture from many years ago. It’s Class 1 of Stocktonwood Junior School, Speke, and was taken in 1962 when Anton attended the school and lived, at the time, in the prefabs in Dymchurch Road. A balmy summer’s day when a group of children fixed their place in history? Anton says: ‘Maybe we could organise a Reunion at the new “Stocko”? Subject to the Head and Governors approval’. Please contact Anton Walker: Awalker2k@aol.com
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Illustration only
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BUYING A HOUSE What consumers should know
Buying a house can be an exciting but daunting prospect and certainly one of the biggest purchases many people will make in their lifetimes. It is without doubt a venture which will be undertaken with much research and consideration. Whilst the planning and house search will play the most major part a prospective buyer should also consider the financial aspect and necessities such as employing a solicitor. Recent research has highlighted that a conveyancer’s reputation is more likely to come before cost when choosing a provider. As with many commodities in life price is an important factor but not necessarily the most influential. A consumer would ideally be informed with as much transparency as possible about price and services to be provided for that price in advance of instructing a solicitor to represent them. It has again been confirmed by recent surveys that the majority of buyers will shop around for legal services before choosing their preferred option.
“Helena Mitchinson provided valuable contact information which resulted in substantial savings, I would certainly use your services in the future.” What can we do as local solicitors to assist? We do not currently offer an online fee calculator as many transactions differ and there is the new stamp duty land tax regime to be advised upon in addition
to search fees and land registry fees. We do however have the facility for an online or telephone enquiry to be made and a friendly team of experienced property solicitors, legal executives and fee earners who are on hand daily to assist.
“We dealt with Helena Mitchinson most of the time who was kind and courteous at all times, helpful and knowledgeable – GAD are solicitors who are professional at all times.” We can advise you as to our legal fee and the occasional circumstances in which an estimate may need to be revised, together with all the additional items you are likely to incur such as stamp duty land tax as referred to earlier. We can supply an overall likely budget so that you can plan ahead with some accuracy which is important at a time when many feel that their hard earned savings are being dissipated suddenly and rapidly. Some conveyancing providers do not initially provide information in an initial estimate of a fee for acting for the mortgage provider and include this at a later stage. We consider that best practice is for transparency and communication from the outset and do not in fact levy a separate fee for this element. Our reputation is long standing and we take pride in providing an efficient and accessible service to our clients. That is not to say that every transactions proceeds smoothly as with most aspects of life there can be occasional unforeseen difficulties or hiccups but we do endeavour to keep our clients appraised at all stages of this important part of their lives.
Helena Mitchinson , Partner Gregory Abrams Davidson hmitchinson@gadllp.co.uk 0151 734 5000
“Everyone I dealt with were equally as helpful as they could be. Excellent team work.As a first time buyer of a mature age a daunting experience was made so easy by GAD, so glad I chose GAD. Thank you.”
To advertise see page FOUR
www.liverpoollink.co.uk
Dog of the month – Mia ‘Nurse Has Soul’ Dog Name: Mia Dog Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dog Age: 9 LOVELY Mia is a senior staffy with so much love to give she’s almost ready to burst! She is a real sweetheart and an instant friend to anyone she meets. Mia loves to look out of the window when she’s in the car so she may make a perfect road trip buddy! She gives an awesome high five and loves to play with her toys. Mia gets along well with other quiet dogs, and is happy to go walkies with them. She does like to keep her high value treats such as rawhide bones to herself, so given she doesn’t like to share we would prefer her to live with slightly older
Concert
THE Savoy Jazzmen are giving a concert in the Sefton Park Palm House on Tuesday, March 6 between 2pm and 4pm. Bring your brollies and join in the Mardi Gras parade numbers or just come and listen. There is a £6.50 admission charge which includes tea or coffee and a slice of cake. Further details from Peter Swensson on 0151 722 1478.
By Mary H
children, aged 10 and above. Mia is ideally looking for a family home where she won’t be left alone for more than an hour or two. She is currently in a foster home, so please call the centre on 0151 480 0660 if you think she could be the one for you. If you think Mia could be the four-legged friend you are looking for, you can visit Dogs Trust Merseyside on Whiston Lane, Huyton, Liverpool, L36 6HP.
It’s open 12pm-4pm every day except Wednesdays, when it is closed. You can also call on 0300 303 0292, 8am-8pm Monday-Friday and 9am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. To find out more about any of the dogs at the centre, visit www.dogstrust. org.uk You can also follow the doggy ‘tails’ on Twitter @DT_Merseyside and Instagram, @dogstrust_ merseyside
‘NURSE Has Soul’ is an autobiography from a Liverpool nurse. My story starts in 1961, the year I was born at home in a terraced house in Liverpool where my parents went on to have six children and we were a large Catholic family. My book tells about all aspects of my own life and life in the city; how we lived, including our family getting our first black and white TV and phone; my father worked in Blacklers and we always went to the grotto on the first day it opened; The Beatles and Cilla Black and the building of the Catholic Cathedral; family days out in
Sefton Park and Otterspool and watching Concorde flying over the River Mersey; Glam Rock in the seventies and the Mersey Tunnel being built and the unforgettable summer of 1976 when ladybirds were everywhere; attending senior school run by Catholic nuns and the Silver Jubilee and all our celebrations. My book is dedicated to Dementia UK and any funds raised will be donated to the charity as my mum and mother-in-law died while having the disorder. ‘Nurse Has Soul’ has been published in Liverpool and is available at £8 per copy (incl. post & packing) – please contact 07492 078191
Sometimes, each of us, or someone we care about, needs support at home. Family owned, family run local business. We provide personalised, bespoke care packages which we create with you to ensure we deliver the service you require. Please call to see if we can help support you, at home.
0151 475 4449 nicola.beal@supportathome.co.uk www.supportathome.co.uk
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Celebrity interview – Tom Cotcher By Tim Saunders
This picture “Just made it” was taken at 2017 British Squash Championships at the National Squash Centre in Manchester. The guy in blue is Nick Matthew OBE British number one and former world champion. He is certainly stretching his opponent to the limit!
Gymophobics Membership – great idea for Mother’s Day
SCOTTISH actor Tom Cotcher is probably best known for the role of DC Woods in ITV’s The Bill, which he played for four years. He is perhaps lesser known for his striking paintings, which have quickly acquired collectors around the world. Tom trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama between 1968 and 1971. From there he worked in repertory theatre in Dundee, Edinburgh and Cambridge. It was in the 1980s when he appeared in Taggart and Lovejoy. Then in 1992 he secured a major role as DC Alan Woods in The Bill. He became a regular on our screens almost every weekday night until 1996. “My acting career has been very steady,” says Glasgow born Tom (67). “Acting suits me really well because it has afforded me time to explore other areas of my creativity; namely my painting. “A few years ago I was invited to paint a picture to be auctioned for charity – ergo I purchased a box of acrylic paints, a couple of brushes and a small canvas, then for the first
time since my schooldays I began to paint again and was hooked. “Within the year I had opened my own gallery called ArtEscape in Brighton’s Kemptown Village.” Tom adds: “I always try and make whatever I do in life into a happy adventure and I’ve been lucky... most of the time! My pictures tell stories... it is up to the audience to decide what they are saying”. Tom is very happy to consider commissions. His television acting debut was as Lieutenant Paton in The Flight of the Heron in 1976. By 1982 he was Detective Sergeant Talbot in Roald Dahl’s Tales of the Unexpected. And in 1989 he was
ADO Ferris in London’s Burning. So a pattern was developing of portraying respected public servants. Three years later he took the part of Robert Fraser in Lovejoy. In 1999 he was Stuart McAire in Dangerfield. The 2000s saw Tom appear in Holby City, EastEnders, Doctors, Law and Order, Bad Girls, Law & Order: UK, Doctors, River City and Monarch of the Glen. Voiceover work is another of Tom’s fortes. He has been the narrator of the hugely popular Ice Road truckers on the History Channel for 10 years. He is also a book narrator for Ian Rankin’s Rebus, Val McDermid’s The Distant Echo and Iain Banks’ Raw Spirit.
A talented man, Tom has had two children’s books published and his autobiography ‘I’m Clear, What’s It Like Up Your End?’ “When I’m not acting you can find me in my studio,” says Tom who for the past four years has exhibited with a wellknown London gallery and enjoyed a good level of sales. “The Cube Gallery situated in the South Downs Heritage Centre Hassocks have invited me to be part of their Artists Open Houses Exhibition in May,” says Tom. Tom is married to the actress Cookie Weymouth, who has also starred on stage and screen and they have two sons.
To advertise see page FOUR
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HERE!
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Quality kitchens and bathrooms at affordable prices Established for 30 years, and located in the Asda shopping mall in Hunts Cross, Capital are one of Merseyside’s leading suppliers and fitters of kitchens and bathrooms and are very much a one-stop shop for all your requirements. “Our aim at Capital is to make your dream bathroom and kitchen become reality. We pride ourselves that people choose Capital because our prices, value and quality give you total peace of mind. “When we quote a fitting, we handle everything from clearing the room to preparing the walls, looking after electrics, plumbing, tiling, fitting, plus any building work, using our own tradesmen”. “So what makes Capital Kitchens and Bathrooms different? Our Capital Promise, which includes a 5-year guarantee, is a pledge we make to all our customers and is embraced by all our employees. All estimates are provided free of charge on a no-obligation basis and 99% of our kitchens and bathrooms are fitted within one week. We take great pride in everything we do”. CAPITAL KITCHENS & BATHROOMS 9b Hunts Cross Shopping Centre, Speke Hall Road, L24 9GB (inside the Asda shopping mall) 0151 486 0123 | email capitalliverpool@aol.co.uk www.capitalkitchensandbathrooms.co.uk
To advertise see page FOUR
To advertise see page FOUR
www.liverpoollink.co.uk
Happy Mother’s Day Sunday, March 11 Book your table now
School reunion HALEWOOD Grange – Class of 75... reunion @ The Quarry, Woolton on Saturday, April 21. Tina Sherriff – 07984 458088 (on Facebook) Marty Joyce – 07546 500796 (martyj2006@ hotmail.co.uk)
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Miss British Beauty Curve By Cathy Hargreaves
I HAVE been selected to compete in the Miss British Beauty Curve pageant as Ms Liverpool Curve 2018. The pageant aims to encourage women to have the confidence to love their body regardless of their size. As a teacher, mother and plus-sized woman myself this is something I am extremely passionate about! It might have taken me a long time to get here, with years and years of yo-yo dieting and a small fortune spent on diet clubs along the way, but I am finally comfortable in my own skin and am ready to shout this from the rooftops and encourage other young women to feel the same! I am aware that being
Cathy Hargreaves overweight can be unhealthy, which is why I am careful to eat well and exercise as often as I can but I am not prepared to obsess over the numbers on a scale anymore,
or whether I can fit into a certain size of clothes. I am more concerned with feeling healthy and happy and I hope that this positivity rubs off on my own children. I believe that young girls need to look up to strong women who aren’t airbrushed or filtered as role models, rather than the unrealistic and often unattainable images they see on social media. My aim is to use this platform to be that role model and show that curvy can be confident, beautiful and empowering. I want to inspire women to focus on their talents and abilities, and to strive for what makes them feel happy and fulfilled rather than obsessing about the size tag in their jeans!
School pupils support local food bank A GROUP of students from Abbot’s Lea School in Woolton have been offering their help at a South Liverpool foodbank. Fifteen teenagers made up packages for those in crisis, while learning about why
foodbanks are necessary. It is part of their ASDAN course which teaches young people how to thrive in 21st century work, life and education. The students have also recently produced and
distributed first aid kits to the homeless community at the Whitechapel Centre. Around 16,500 people in the local area have been supported since the South Liverpool foodbank opened in 2009.
How do you see yourself? THE LIVERPOOL PERSONAL TRAINER with Paul Coshott. Call 07887 868872 or visit www.liverpoolpersonaltrainer.com
LATELY, I’ve been reading a book called ‘Psycho Cybernetics’, written by a plastic surgeon. How it came about was that he began to wonder why he was making physical changes to people and a lot of them still saw themselves as being ugly or had issues and didn’t feel any more confident. I’ve read similar books over the years and, to me, they all talk about the same message but use a different approach. And the message
is this: how we view or see ourselves is what we get. For example, if you see yourself as a failure then circumstances or situations will appear in order to support that belief. If you see yourself as strong, successful and confident then, again, avenues will open up in order to support that belief. All of us have transmitters within our brain. What these do is pick up information on something that we want or need to do. For example, if you decided that you wanted to buy a red Mini then all of a sudden you would notice other people driving around in red Minis. Have you ever been in
this kind of situation? It can happen with an item of clothing or anything else. So how does all this help you? Firstly, you need to visualise yourself on where you want to be or what you want to do. You need to do this often and for a period. Personally, I don’t do this often enough. Once you have done that, and done it often, your transmitters will kick in and direct you and bring circumstances towards you in order to help you get to where you want to be or what you want. Give it a go and let me know what you think! Paul Helping women and children regain their confidence through training and coaching
Is laziness costing your firm money? A NEW report has found that the more physically active you are the cheaper you are to employ. According to the national transport charity Sustrans, sick days cost the average
UK company around £258 a day. With the average worker missing 4.5 days a year due to illness, those who cycle to work for example, miss a much lower 2.4 days.
This saves an estimated £500 every year for each cycling employee. Regular active commuting is also found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 11 per cent.
Finding a suit LIFE ‘n’ STYLE
– with JADE AINSWORTH
HEY guys and welcome to March’s issue of my Life ‘n’ Style! I have been busy with shoot after shoot this month. One being for my new makeup brush range ‘Flawless Collection’ which will tie in with my hair extension range. Both will fall under the Miss JA brand that I am currently designing the website for. All items will be available in Hairfields hairdressing salon in Childwall until I launch the website which I am hoping will be by April. With Mother’s Day taking place this month it’s a little bit difficult to find a suitable outfit. You need something dressy, glam but also warm as the temperatures are still quite low. I’m loving stripes this month and got so many compliments when I wore these two pieces from Pretty
http://www.jadeainsworth gossip.co.uk
Little Thing priced at £43 for the suit. The furs are both priced at £100 but are worth every
penny. I absolutely love mine! All items available on www.prettylittlething.com
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY – Sunday March 13
By Colette Mckenna
IT’S tempting to believe that Mother’s Day was the invention of greetings card manufacturers or florists but, like so many other customs, it can be traced to the ancient Greeks, who held an annual Spring festival to Rhea, the mother of the gods. The Romans copied the idea with offerings to Cybele, who was also a mother of deities. Early Christians embraced the idea by dedicating the fourth Sunday in Lent to Mary the mother of Christ and, as time went by, the English extended the idea
to include all mothers in what became known as “Mothering Sunday”. From the early 16th century, families celebrated with servants being allowed home to visit their mothers, and even a special cake baked to mark the day. An American woman, Anna Jarvis, campaigned for a special day to honour mothers in memory of her own mother’s good works in the community. Presidents Taft and Roosevelt supported Anna’s campaign and in 1914 President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed that May 2 was a national holiday – “ Mother’s
Day”. Sadly, the growing commercialisation of Mother’s Day was deeply distressing to Anna, who admitted before her death in 1948 that she regretted starting the tradition. Mother’s Day continues to flourish around the globe, albeit on different dates. Here in Britain we keep to the Spring time tradition, with florists and card shops doing a roaring trade and restaurants full as families show their appreciation for that person we all take for granted the rest of the year – good old mum! Happy Mother’s Day from all at The LINK.
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table Mother’s Day outfit If you’re looking for some comfy cosy loungewear sets then Matalan is the place you need to go. Not only are the prices super low they also are really good quality and the designs are really nice too. I did a shoot earlier this week and so glad I got to keep them. Perfect for lazy days and nights. The ‘Star Velour Lounge’ set, the ‘Velour Cowl Neck’ set and the “Lurex” set are all priced at £20. Making these perfect Mother’s Day gifts! On March 9 I will be taking part in this year’s Lip
Sync Battle in The Camp & Furnace for a big charity performance. The event is put on by organiser Pauline Cox to raise money for ‘Wirral Ark’ charity, which provides support and accommodation to homeless people. When I first got asked to take part in this my initial reaction was I’d be too nervous but when I was told a little bit more about the charity I thought it was a bit selfish of me to decline and to just put my feelings to one side and do whatever I can to help these people in need. I will be taking to the stage
with my partner in crime Miguel Doforo to bring to you a night of entertainment and fun. There will be another seven acts on the night to battle it out to see who gives the best effort. You will be able to vote via text on the night and all proceeds will go to the charity. If you fancy coming along tickets are £10 and I’m sure it’ll be worth every penny!! If you can’t come then there is a sponsorship page and every penny does count: www.justgiving.com/ jademiguellivsync2018
How much junk food are you drinking? PUBLIC health bosses in Liverpool are using the ‘shock factor’ in a bid to reduce how much alcohol people are drinking. The ‘Drink Less Feel Good’ initiative focuses on calorie intake rather than the amount. It comes as a result of research which shows people find alcohol units confusing. Instead, hard-hitting images are being used to represent two pints of beer as the equivalent of 510 calories or two burgers, while another shows three large glasses of wine as the same as gorging on three doughnuts or 630 calories.
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Cats of the month – Liz and Phil
LIZ and Phil were discovered living in the garden of a derelict house and had apparently been there for a year. Liz is a beautiful and friendly black cat, around 14 years old, and loves you to Old Phil with chat to her. a helper. Then she purrs, and purrs, and purrs. And then goes back to sleep! The tabby, gorgeous boy, old Phil, has found a place in all our hearts. All this elderly chap wants is a warm lap, strokes and snuggles. If you know of anyone that could offer this grand boy a safe home where he can live out his days, please consider adopting him. He will offer unconditional love and companionship in return. The most loving old gent, Phil, when he came in, was completely bewildered. He is deaf so would have to be a house-cat. We would consider allowing them to go to separate homes. Please call Garston Animal Rescue with adoption enquiries on 0151 494 0470 or Liz 07745 167170.
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Look into my eyes UNCLE Ralph was always welcome at Lilac Avenue although he would often breeze in without any warning, standing at the door proclaiming: “Here I am!” The children were particularly fond of their debonair uncle who travelled around the North of England as a commercial traveller. Ralph drove a grey Rover coupé which was always kept immaculate – sometimes his nieces and nephews would wash it as he chatted to his sister Beattie in the front parlour. “The East Lancashire Road has made all the difference on my rounds,” he enthused. “I can be over from Leeds to Liverpool in no time. You should get a phone so I can tell you I’m on my way.” Ralph had always been unpredictable but that was part of his charm. He was a very smart dresser, with his check suits, silk ties and brogues. This was all part of the job when selling Pemberton’s Paper Products. The three children thought it hilarious that toilet rolls were among his wares. They always had plenty piled in the airing cupboard. Everyone would shiver when he described visiting undertakers to show the latest designs in paper shrouds. “When clothes and fashions change, so do shrouds,” he declared.
Ralph’s stories seemed endless, gathered as he drove between towns and cities on roads as yet uncluttered by traffic. He claimed there was a definite distinction between buyers in Lancashire and Yorkshire. “Chalk and cheese,” said Ralph. “Some would do anything rather than spend a penny, if you’ll excuse the expression.” Ralph always talked to the children and, if they were good, would give each a shiny silver sixpence. One sunny summer’s day the big car pulled up outside the house just as the children were coming home from school.
Strange Tale – By Anton Valdemart
Soon the buckets were out and soapy suds cascading over the bodywork. Ralph stood at the window sipping tea from a floral china cup. He swung round to his sister, a mischievous grin on his face. “It’s years since I’ve done my party trick – I’m going to do it now.” “Oh no, “said Beattie, her face red with stifled laughter. “You used to do that at our birthday parties. Terrified the life out of everyone.” The children finished the car and waved for him to come out and give his usual inspection. Ralph put down his cup and went outside. He walked around the car then stopped. “I see a smudge, a definite smudge,” he said closely scrutinising the bonnet. His face was transformed into a stone-like mask. “Own up – who did it.” There was no response. “Look into my eyes,” he said, twisting his eyebrows and staring so hard that his eyeballs seemed about to pop out. “Come on … who did it?” The children’s screams turned to laughter as they returned his stare with their own versions of the goggle-eyed glare. “Definitely a family resemblance,” said Ralph when he returned to the house. n Read my next Strange Tale – It Is as It Is – in the April Link.
Don’t forget – the clocks go forward on Sunday, March 25th. Become a Homestay Host
We are recruiting homestay hosts for our international students Liverpool School of English is the largest and longest established language school in Liverpool. Since 1999, we have provided expert English language training in a stimulating and supportive environment. If you can provide a bedroom, meals and a warm, friendly and caring homestay, please contact us today!
We pay up to £135 per week You can find more information on our website www.lse.uk.net/accommodation/become-a-host-family or you can contact us to speak with someone from our Accommodation Team.
0151 706 0730
07970 753 134
info@lse.uk.net
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Gateacre gets a new Post Office THERE’S a new Post Office at the heart of Belle Vale Shopping Precinct. Having lost three in the area since the Millennium it’s a step forward. The offices we lost were: Halewood Road corner shop (now funeral parlour) Belle Vale Road, close to Morrisons and the newsagents at Gateacre
Park Drive precinct, demolished five years ago, to make way for Aldi Neighbourhood Centre. Main Post Office services and Newsagents. Mon to Sat: 9am to 5pm – Sun: Closed – BH: Closed. Post Office, Unit C, Belle Vale Shopping Centre, Childwall Valley Road, Liverpool, L252RF.
Terracotta Warriors land in Liverpool THE long-awaited Terracotta Warriors exhibition has finally been unveiled at the World Museum in Liverpool. Just in time to celebrate Chinese New Year and the Year of the Dog, China’s First Emperor and the Terracotta Warriors is also part of celebrations to mark 10 years since the city’s status as European Capital of Culture in 2008. Not only will visitors see some of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries, but also experience a journey through China’s history. The Warriors will be on display until October 28.
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An interview with Trevor O’Loughlin
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(Managing Partner, O’Loughlin & Co Financial Planning) Hi Trevor – what are your thoughts financially on 2017 now that the dust has settled? Another year of turmoil and uncertainty which seems to be the new normal now. The endless political and economic upheaval, especially around the Brexit issues, has meant UK interest rates have remained near record lows in a bid to help keep the economy on the road and counteract investor worry but this has meant another kick in the teeth for UK savers. How so? Deposit accounts such as Cash ISA’s and instant access savers continue to pay awful interest – almost nothing in most cases and at the same time we have seen the cost of living and inflation slowly creep up again to near thre per cent. Low interest rates have however helped the UK housing market remain stable for now and keep it
ticking over. The rate of house building remains to be another question.
How about stock markets and investments, Trevor? Taking a brief look at stock markets and investments, globally shares performed very well in 2017, the direct opposite of what people think may have actually happened! In the UK the FTSE 100 grew to record levels, the index being heavily weighted with global companies making international profits. Good fund managers have also continued to invest shrewdly during this time giving proactively managed funds and portfolios the edge over passive or tracker funds. Despite how he is viewed more widely, Donald Trump’s ‘make America great again’ rhetoric continues to strike a chord, with the US stock markets also reaching record highs in 2017 and strong economic
data continuing across the board worldwide. The big question then... 2018? Looking ahead to the rest
of 2018, we will continue to see high levels of uncertainty, especially in the UK and Europe, which leads to sharp, short periods of stock market volatility. Stock
markets correct themselves periodically and that’s a separate issue to these spikes in volatility. Recent ‘corrections’ to the stock market have been overdue in my opinion and I would like to see 2018 now be a year of consolidating the strong gains of recent years. Based on this, it has never been more important to review your overall financial position. Bench checking the performance of existing investments and pensions is vital and, importantly, how that money is invested going through 2018; assessing your estate for Inheritance Tax, making use of trusts for future generations as required. These are just two examples of good financial practice.
How do people do this? A financial face to face review at least once every 12 months is essential. We insist on it at my practice and in fact I see most clients every
six months. It’s this level of personal service that sets us apart and gives our clients the peace of mind they deserve. Thanks Trevor. So, any personal goals in 2018? I am running the London Marathon again in April 2018, this time for the Alzheimer’s/ Dementia Society. It’s a truly terrible condition that has affected many of my clients lives, directly and indirectly, so I am putting myself through the punishment of another 26.2 miles to raise as much awareness and money as possible, people can donate at my justgiving page – www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/trevor-oloughlin A very worthwhile cause Trevor, well done. Lee-Ann Kent, Practice Manager at O’Loughlin & Co Financial Planning, can be reached on 0151 733 1132 for enquiries.
O’Loughlin & Co Ltd. Financial Planning; 11a Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LG 0151 733 1132: www.oloughlinandco.co.uk Email: Trevor.OLoughlin@sjpp.co.uk; Lee-Ann.Kent@sjpp.co.uk
Undergraduates to tutor students IN A bid to improve maths and science grades at GCSE level, around 60 University of Liverpool undergraduates have been recruited to tutor secondary school pupils.
Short scripts wanted for Theatre’s summer production THE Valley Theatre in Netherley are looking for short original scripts from local writers for their summer production for Liverpool Fringe Festival. They need writers to create a modern take on a biblical story which should be between 10 and 25 minutes long, and with only a few characters. The deadline is Monday 2nd April and all scripts should be submitted to tomm562002@ yahoo.com The winning scripts will be performed on June 8 and 9 at the Valley Theatre.
They will work with six schools including Alsop High, De La Salle Academy, Fazakerley High, Notre Dame Catholic College, Holly Lodge Girls’ College and Liverpool Life
Sciences UTC. The project is part of the Liverpool Promise which is a pledge by education, civic, cultural and business leaders to make the city’s education system the best in the UK.
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WHAT’S ON March THE FRIENDS OF HARTHILL AND CALDERSTONES PARK Will meet at 7.15pm on Monday 12th March 2018 for the AGM followed by a talk by Colin Twist on the Orchids in the UK. Meetings are held in Childwall Primary School on Woolton Road, Liverpool 16, the entrance to which is off Salisbury Park. A charge of £2 is made for visitors, who are most welcome to attend. GRASSENDALE FLOWER ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY Will meet on Thursday March 8th when Debbie Davis from Formby will give a demonstration entitled “Through my Garden Gate”. Meetings are held in Dovedale Baptist Church Hall, in Olivedale Road. L18 1DW. The doors open at 7.30pm, for meeting at 8pm. Visitors are welcome for a fee of £6. MEETING OF THE GATEACRE SOCIETY The meeting will be a talk by Dave Fryer on the Mercy ships which provide much needed medical services to countries in West Africa. This talk will be on Sunday March 11th at 2.30pm in the Gateacre Chapel, Gateacre Brow. Free entry to members and non members. Donations welcome. LIVERPOOL OSTEOPOROSIS GROUP Is holding a public meeting on Thursday, 22nd March at 2pm when Dr. M A Siddiqi, consultant Physician, will give a Medical Update on Osteoporosis. The meeting will take place at the Liverpool University Hospital, Aintree in the Woolfson Lecture Theatre, Clinical Services Building. Further info 0151 722 0726. Please note change of venue. THE PUB CLUB An informal group of diverse friends (ages 50+) who meet weekly for a chat, a drink, a laugh and something to eat if you fancy. We meet each Thursday between 6pm and 11pm at the Richmond Tavern in Church Road, Wavertree, (nr Penny Lane) but we often have ‘away-days’ to other pubs. For more info Pubclub@ talktalk.net NEVER SUNG BEFORE? Already enjoy singing? No matter what your experience, join our ‘boot camp for the voice’ and perform in a community concert at one of Liverpool’s principal venues. Listen-and-repeat training, no need to read music, any skill level (or none) welcome. Discover how singing together improves your health, well-being and stress. Further details: merseychoir@ mail.com DIXIELAND JAZZ CONCERT The Savoy Jazzmen are giving a concert in the Sefton Park Palm House on Tuesday 6th March between 2-4 pm. Bring your brollies and join in the Mardi Gras parade numbers or just come and listen. There is a £6.50 admission charge which includes tea or coffee and a slice of cake. Further details from Peter Swensson - 0151 722 1478 LIVERPOOL WELSH CHORAL Are singing in All Hallows Church L18 6JJ on Saturday March 17th at 7.30pm. Featuring Haydn’s Little Organ Mass, Chilcotts’s Requiem and Lo, The Full Final Sacrifice by Finzi. We have amazing solo singers and players from RNCM in Manchester withour organist Stephen Hargreaves and conductor Keith Orrell. All tickets £12.50 from Mavis Owens 0151 652 6374 TRAMWAY & LIGHT RAILWAY SOCIETY Next meeting Monday 19 March; Greenbank Sports Academy (Rathbone Room), 8pm. Sharon Brown, Curator at the Museum of Liverpool. This evening Sharon will relate the story of Frank Hornby, who introduced Meccano to the world and “O” Gauge Hornby trains, followed by Dinky Toys. £2 includes refreshments. Everyone is welcome. EASTER PRIZE BINGO Broughton Hall Catholic High School PTA Easter Prize Bingo. Sunday 18th March 2018, 6th Form Centre Broughton Hall Honey’s Green Lane L12 9HJ. Doors open 6.30pm, GREAT Prizes & Raffle. Under 16s must be accompanied. Contact Mrs Hayward if you need further details 0151 541 9440. THE ARTS SOCIETY LIVERPOOL An illustrated lecture, ‘Mackintosh in Glasgow’ by Professor Clyde Bunfield, on Wednesday 21 March . Come and meet others who love Art and Culture at The Bridge Chapel Centre, Heath Road, Liverpool L19 4XR at 2pm. Admission £6 voluntary donation. Refreshments available and free parking. ADULT DRAMA GROUP At Valley Theatre, Netherley. Monday March 5th, 7pm. Fresh from their great
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success with “Babes in the Wood”, Valley Theatre adult drama group are back, starting a new season, which will finish in June with a performance for the Liverpool Fringe. 18 and over. All welcome. New actors welcome. Further details Martin Ball, director, 07746 697263 or tomm562002@yahoo.com SCHOOL REUNION Halewood Grange – Class of 75 Reunion at The Quarry, Woolton on Saturday, April 21. Tina Sherriff – 07984 458088 (on Facebook) or Marty Joyce – 07546 500796 (martyj2006@hotmail.co.uk) TRADITIONAL AFTERNOON TEA DANCE A traditional Afternoon Tea Dance (Merseyside Children’s Fund charity) with demonstrations of ballroom dancing is being held in the world famous Adelphi Hotel in the town centre. The event will commence at 1pm on Friday March 16 and the cost is only £15 per person, (£7.50 when booking with Jane and £7.50 on March 16). For further details phone Jane on 0151 709 7200. NEW MEMBERS EVENING Rotary Liverpool South new members evening Monday March 12, 7pm for 7.30pm Woolton Village Club, 23 Allerton Road, Liverpool L25 7RA. Come along and see what you think enjoy free food and a drink with us. www.liverpoolsouth. rotary1180.org Club mobile. 07934 370525 or ring Roger Saunders on 07982 241289 or email rjsaunders@ blueyonder.co.uk SMILE AND SING with MERSEY HARMONY Have fun, sing, and boost your skills. Come along to Merseyside’s only all-female barbershop chorus. Mersey Harmony performs at events and competes locally and nationally. Rehearsals every MONDAY, 7.15pm – 10pm, Academy of St Nicholas, Horrocks Ave, L19 5NY. For details: Call Angela – 07947 142440 – www.merseyharmony. co.uk or check out our Facebook page. LIVERPOOL CONTRA FOLK DANCE CLUB We do a mixture of Barn Dance; Pride and Prejudice; Square Dance styles. Get exercise, meet friendly folk and have fun. No need to bring a partner. Tuesdays open at 7.45pm. Class from 8pm to 10pm. The Scout Hut, Gorsedale Rd (off Dovedale Rd) L18 5EY Allerton/Mossley Hill). Contact Maria on 0151 427 1907 FREE COMPUTER CLASSES FOR ADULTS ICT Functional Skills Entry Level 1 to 3 at New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood or Halewood Academy on Wood Road. Just 2.5 hours a week. Courses are free and consist of email, word processing and the internet. Taster courses lasts for six weeks. Enrolling now. Call 0151 443 2197 for more information. ST BARNABAS CHURCH, PENNY LANE. Every Tuesday between 10.30am and 12 noon a coffee morning is held and everyone welcome to join us for a chat. In addition, during this time, Lodge Lane Credit Union is at the
church offering a full range of Credit Union Services. Also, at the same time, Riversdale Housing Support Team is here providing a range of services to reduce the risk of homelessness (such as debt management, accessing benefits, finding accommodation).” BREATHE EASY Breathe Easy Liverpool South is a friendly support group for people with lung disease/breathing difficulties. We usually meet the fourth Monday in the month at 1.30 pm, Bridge Chapel Centre, Heath Road, Liverpool, L19 4XR. For further information, please ring the British Lung Foundation Helpline on 03000 030 555.
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TLC 2018 Smile and experience Tender Loving Care supporting those affected by Dementia. Join our loving family and friends for entertainment, beverages and delicious food at Mossley Hill Athletic Club L18 8BX. 1pm till 3.30pm on 31st January, 7th February, 28th February, 14th March, 28th March, 11th April, 25th April, 9th May, 30th May, 13th June, 27th June, 11th July, 25th July and more dates to follow. £4 per person which includes hot/ gold beverages, lunch and dessert. SOUTH LIVERPOOL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY meets every Thursday at CADWA, Rocky Lane L16 1JD from 7.45pm to 10pm. Membership £60/£55 for September to June – £3 per visit. We warmly welcome anyone with a serious interest in photography to take part in competitions, displays and presentations and workshops. Beginners to veterans. Contact; Tim Evans on 0151 475 0345, secretaryslps@virginmedia.com Website; www.slps.co.uk LIVERPOOL & MERSEYSIDE PHILATELIC SOCIETY Meet upstairs at Court Hey Methodist Church Hall, Bowring Park, L14 3NU, on alternate Mondays at 2pm prompt, September to June. Guest speakers and members display presentations of postal history and various stamp related themes. New members and guests welcome; good car parking. Bus 6, 61, 116, 610, 619 and quite close to Broadgreen station. Contact Dr. D.Crewe on 0151 733 1291 or Tim Evans on 0151 475 0345 TIME 2 SIGN Children and parents learn British Sign Language (BSL),we sing along to nursery rhymes, counting and action songs whilst signing and having fun. Classes held every Tuesday at St Mary’s West Derby Millennium Centre. Time: 9.25am – 10am. Cost £3 each child/ additional children £1. Contact Ms Christine (Level 2 BSL qualified instructor). Email: timetwosign@gmail. com ROTARY CLUB OF LIVERPOOL SOUTH Rotary Liverpool South meets Monday evenings at 6.30pm for 7pm start. The Club has 30 active members who meet for fun, fellowship and the opportunity to serve others. We are always on the lookout for new members willing to give up their time for others under the Rotary motto “Service Above Self”. Check our website at www.liverpoolsouth. rotary1180.org or phone 07934 370524. SINGING FOR SMILES Meeting from Thursday, March 22 from 8pm to 9.30pm at Elm Hall Drive Methodist Church, L18 1LF. Email sing4smilesliverpool@gmail.com BELLE VALE PREFAB PROJECT Did you live in a prefab in Belle Vale? Come and join us in our free monthly meetings at the Millennium Centre, Childwall Valley Road, on the last Thursday in the month. We are an informal chatty group and love to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Find us on Facebook – Belle Vale Prefab Project – for more information. LINE DANCING St. Mark’s Church Hall, Hartsbourne Avenue, L25 2SB. Tuesdays 12.45pm to 2.45pm ALSO AT The Scout Hut, Gorsedale Rkoad, Mossley Hill, Liverpool 18. Thursdays 11am to 12 noon. Friendly classes. Class fee £3. Contact Sylia on 0151 722 6653 TICKET TO READ Woolton’s FREE community library is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 4pm at the Simon Peter Centre on Church Road. There is a wide
selection of new books, with a quick choice section, large print volumes, and a cosy corner for young readers. Come along and support your community library, staffed and run by volunteers. CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY Are you struggling with bills and debts you can’t afford to pay? Christians Against Poverty can help. Our service is free to everyone regardless of age, gender, faith or background. Call us for a home visit on 0800 328 0006. See more at capuk.org GENTLE MOBILITY YOGA CLASS Contact Frank Perry on 07780 865 609 or simply come along on Tuesdays to Linksview, 102 Vale Road, Woolton, Liverpool, L25 7FB. Class time is 2.30pm to 3.30pm and at the end we have a nice cup of tea. Groups, clubs and classes ADULT DISABILITY ACTIVITY DAY Every Monday daytime from 11am to 3pm adult disability activity day; it includes DJ with karaoke, dancing, chair based exercise, bingo, play your cards right, full size snooker table, dart board, loads of prizes and much more. Free car park. At The New Derry Social Club, Mere Lane, Liverpool, L5 0QW. Run by P.A.C and the Derry Club. ASPERGER CARERS GROUP Held on the first Monday of each month at Rathbone Hospital, Library Building, William House, Mill Lane, Liverpool L13 4AW. For more information contact 07887 369550 or aspergerconnections@yahoo.co.uk ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY Have several support groups in Prescot, Halewood, Huyton and Kirkby for people living with dementia and their carers. The groups provide activities and an opportunity to meet other families with caring responsibilities. There is no charge to attend and refreshments are provided. Please contact us on 426 4433 for further information. ACTIVITY HUB Are you at a loose end on a Tuesday morning? If so come along to Long Lane Church, off Mill Lane, Wavertree, 11am till 1pm. We have board games, crochet, knitting, card making, gardening and church maintenance (if you are handy). Refreshments provided £1. All welcome. For info call Helen on 07837 711178 BREATHE EASY Breathe Easy Liverpool South is a friendly support group for people with lung disease/breathing difficulties. We usually meet the fourth Monday in the month at 1.30 pm, Bridge Chapel Centre, Heath Road, Liverpool, L19 4XR. For further information, please ring the British Lung Foundation Helpline on 03000 030 555 TOTS & CO Allerton United Reformed Church. We are a friendly play group for carers and their children meeting every Wednesday during term time (1.30pm to 3pm). Only £1 for a carer and up to two children and refreshments are included. All welcome. WOMEN’S INSTITUTE CHILDWALL Meet every first Thursday of the month (7.15pm) at Christ the King Parish club, Score Lane, L16. New members most welcome! For info contact 07787 606636 or wichildwall@gmail.com PARKINSON’S SOUTH LIVERPOOL GROUP We meet on the second Thursday of each month at Bridge Chapel Heath Road, Liverpool, L19 4XR at 7.15pm. Come and join us for an informal chat and helpful advice regarding Parkinson’s with quest speakers. BOWEL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Come and meet others, discuss, explore, exchange ideas and laughter in a friendly, non-threatening environment. If you would like to join us for a cuppa and a chat, come along to Meeting Room ‘A’, upstairs in Childwall Fiveways Centre, on the first Tuesday of every month from 6.00-7.30pm. Patients, former patients, family, friends & carers all welcome!! For more info ring Helen 07948 120955. FIBROMATES – NORTH WEST FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP Meets every month. If you have fibromyalgia, or care for someone who has it, you are most welcome to join us. We are a very friendly group who meet once a month to support each other and share information about managing fibromyalgia. Contact Anne Pritchard on 07912 084549 for further details GRAND NATIONAL CHORUS Open nights are held regularly at Prescot Town Hall, 1 Warrington Rd, Prescot L34 5QX, from 8pm to 10pm on Thursdays. Come and hear the fabulous harmony of the male voices. Ring 07716 127814 to book free place. http://www. liverpoolinharmony.co.uk
INCLUDE ME CIC A weekly Wednesday morning meeting is held at Linksview, Vale Road, Woolton from 10am to 1pm. We are tackling the issues of loneliness and exclusion in the local area, so why not meet up with us for coffee and put your ideas and suggestions forward for what activities you would like us to provide for the group. Contact Janet on 07894 585689 or email info@includeme-org.org LEE VALLEY KNITTING GROUP Meet Wednesday 11am to 12.30pm at The Lee Valley Millennium Centre, Childwall Valley Road, L25 2PR. It is free to come along, we have a mixture of very experienced knitters and people wanting to learn. It’s not just knitting we also do crochet, quilting and other activities. Contact Laura 07794 119379. M.S. SOCIETY YOGA The M.S. Society has an afternoon of yoga at Linkside, Vale Rd. Woolton on a Tuesday afternoon from 2pm till 4pm. All are very welcome. MERSEYSIDE NATIONAL TRUST ENVIRONMENTAL VOLUNTEERS A friendly group who organise Sunday workdays at local National Trust estates. We have residential working weekends too. All equipment provided. We also have a Saturday walking programme. For full details of 2017 programmes: Twitter: @merseyside_NTV; call Chris on 0151 677 9664; Facebook: MerseysideNTV. No need to have NT membership. PARKINSONS UK Meets regularly at The Bridge Chapel, Heath Road, L19 4XR. Second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm. Tel. Beverley Jackson on 03442 253748. Patients and/or carers most welcome. Change attitudes. Find a cure. Join us. SEWERS AND KNITTERS WANTED Project Linus (projectlinusuk.org. uk) makes quilts/blankets for local children who are ill or in distressing situations. We welcome handmade items for all ages, we can provide fabric/wool if required and will arrange collection. If you can help, please contact caroline. fogell@yahoo.co.uk SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL We are a group of women, sharing a global vision with Soroptimist International. We work together through service projects, fund-raising and advocacy to advance human rights and the status of girls and women. We meet monthly on the fourth Wednesday at 7pm: Sefton Park Hotel, 37 Aigburth Drive, Liverpool L17 4JE. For further details, contact annegrimes19@gmail. com; mobile 07814 564649 THE PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT & INFORMATION GROUP Informal meeting held on last Wed. in the month (except Dec) at Sunflowers Centre, 21 Aigburth Rd, L17 4JR. Separate meeting rooms available for partners and carers. For info 0151 726 8934 EXERCISE, MOVEMENT & DANCE CLASS The Bagot Stack system focuses on improving posture through progressive exercise and dance movements. Suitable for all abilities. Monday’s 1.30pm to 3pm and Thursday’s 7pm to 8pm. At All Hallows Centre, Harthill Road, Allerton, L18 3HU. Contact Jane on 0151 724 5192 or www.janesfitness.co.uk. Bowls CADWA BOWLING CLUB ROCKY LANE Would you like to play crown green bowls socially? All abilities welcome and bowls are provided if required. Also we play indoor from Sept. (short mat). We are just around the corner from the Turnpike Pub in Rocky Lane. For further information call Eric on 489 9484 or Jim on 07949 813591. EAST WAVERTREE BOWLING CLUB 129a Dunbabin Road, Childwall. Enjoy the Summer outdoors, come and play Crown Green Bowls at our friendly club. Either a player or a beginner – all welcome. Just come along or call Liz Potter on 0151 428 534. ETON BOWLING CLUB Come bowling at the oldest bowling club in Liverpool. You will be made very welcome and we will give coaching to all players new to the game. We are located at the back of The Halfway House in Woolton Road and our season runs from the end of March until October. Contact Geoff on 07922 110624. SEFTON PARK BOWLING CLUB Is looking for new members. Various competitions starting from Easter to October. Open Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, Wednesday and Friday Evenings, and most weekends. Learners & experts, singles & couples are all welcome. Postcode L17 7DG. Contact Gregg Watson on 0151 222 2964.
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Brain Food Festival not to be missed THE Brain Charity in Liverpool will be throwing open its doors on March 14 to mark Brain Awareness Week with amazing food festival to teach people all about food and its effects on our brain and nervous system. There will be cookery demonstrations, bush tucker trials
Speke Hall leads the way in technology THE very first National Trust Ground Source Heat Pump in the North of England has been switched on in Speke Hall. As one of the first houses in Britain to install central heating back in 1985, the Tudor mansion is once again leading the way in heating technology. Linking 19th and 21st century systems the original boiler which
supplied heating and hot water to the Hall has been replaced with a Ground Source Heat Pump. The pump works by absorbing energy from the soil and transferring it into the building to heat it. It is part of a renewable energy investment programme to move away from fossil fuels.
Free prize draw Two pairs of tickets to be won for The Salon REGAL Entertainments present Drew Quayle’s hilarious and critically acclaimed comedy play The Salon, coming to The Epstein Theatre from May 21 to 26. Featuring a stellar cast including TOWIE’s Harry Derbidge, Radio City’s Leanne Campbell, Rita, Sue and Bob Too! star Olivia Sloyan and Brookside and Benidorm’s Philip Olivier. Completing the cast is Brookside’s Sarah White and Emmerdale’s Peter Amory. For those that want perfect nails, a relaxing massage or a perfect perm then there are plenty of places to go, but for jealousy, bitchiness and gossip look no further than ‘Curl Up and Dye’. The average day at this Liverpool hair and beauty salon involves shouting, crying and singing, with the odd beauty treatment thrown in for good measure. Carol wants to find true love, Tia wants to be a pop star and Sheila just wants a toy boy. Mix in a camp-as-Christmas boss, a plastic gangster who is trying to take over the salon, a hysterical drama queen, and a whole lot of vodka, and it all adds up to a brilliantly funny night out.
Get your rollers at the ready! +Cast subject to change Win two tickets to The Salon at the Epstein Theatre. To enter our free prize draw please send your name, address and telephone no. to:- The Salon, Liverpool LINK, P.O. Box 170, Liverpool, L25 7WX or you can email your name, address and Tel. No. to linkaccountsmoi@yahoo.co.uk and insert THE SALON DANCE DRAW in the subject box please. To reach us by March 14.
Women’s World Day of Prayer THE annual Women’s World Day of Prayer is being held on Friday, March 2. Churches Together in Mossley Hill are organising a service and it will be held at Bethel, Presbyterian Church of Wales, Heathfield Road (off Penny Lane), Liverpool, L18 0HX. Starting at 1.30pm, it will
finish at 2.30pm and will be followed by refreshments. Women’s World Day of Prayer is an interdenominational movement and is not simply a day of prayer for women, but for everyone who cares about our world and those who live in it. We will join an estimated
three million people around the world that day in a service which has been written this year by the women of Suriname in South America. For more information or to find a service nearer to you, email Janet dovedalebaptist@gmail.com or visit www.wwdp.org.uk
and a Great Brain Bake Off. Other charities, groups and foodie organisations will also be on hand to answer your questions about food and its effects on particular conditions. Address: The Brain Charity, Norton Street, Liverpool, L3 8LR.
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General knowledge quiz
1. Who wrote The Pilgrim’s Progress? (a) John Bunyan (b) Geoffrey Chaucer (c) William Wordsworth? 2. Which of Shakespeare’s tragedies is set in Elsinore Castle? (a) Hamlet (b) Macbeth (c) Romeo and Juliet? 3. In what year was the first ever long-playing record (LP) released? (a) 1928 (b) 1938 (c) 1948? 4. Which one of the following Spanish cities is located in the Basque region? (a) Bilbao (b) Malaga (c) Valencia? 5. In what year was Liverpool formally granted city status? (a) 1680 (b) 1780 (c) 1880? 6. Which one of the following monarchs was the last to occupy the throne? (a) Charles II (b) Edward VI (c) Henry VII? 7. Which one of the following football fixtures is not a local ‘derby’ game? (a) Ajax v Feyenoord (b) Juventus v Torino (c) Real Betis v Sevilla? 8. The retina, iris and cornea are all found in which part of the body? (a) ear (b) eye (c) stomach? 9. How many players are there in a netball team? (a) six (b) seven (c) eight? 10. For any metal to be described as non-ferrous, what must it not contain? (a) copper (b) iron (c) lead?
Quick Crossword
Sudoku
Take a break with the LINK Sudoku
Music Quiz
We have listened to our readers who think the Sudoku answers should be in the current month’s LINK. Answers are now at bottom of the page
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 3 x 3 box.
Crossword Solutions
Down 1. Town which is “over the river” from the Pier Head (10) 2. Where the Grand National is held (7) 3. Prickly plants! (5) 4. Girl’s name: song title used by Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac, Starship (4) 5. Metal container used for storing food & liquids, etc. (3,3) 6. Ancient Sumerian city; birthplace of Abraham (2) 7. “Die ----------“ (translated: “The Bat”): Strauss opera (10) 11. Minerals/rocks (4) 14. Keen (5) 18. European Commission (1,1) 20. ---- Fitzgerald: Jazz singer, b.1917, d.1996 (4) 21. Be defeated; be deprived of (4) 25. Homer Simpson’s catch-phrase (3) 26. Brian ---: musician, original member of Roxy Music (3) 28. Audio-visual (abbrev.) (1,1) 30. District Attorney (1,1)
Music Quiz 1. Ringo Starr 2. The La’s 3. Frankie Goes to Hollywood (B-side of “Relax”) 4. Billy J Kramer 5. Photographs 6. Icicle Works 7. Holly Johnson 8. From Me To You 9. The Searchers 10. Echo & the Bunnymen
ACROSS 1. Black Stuff 8. IA 9. Air 10. Runcorn 12. Me 13 TT Race 15. Eerie 16. AA 17. Singer 19. Heel 22. ECM 23. El 24. Order 27. Alas 29. On 30. Du 31. Dave Thomas DOWN 1. Birkenhead 2. Aintree 3. Cacti 4. Sara 5. Tin can 6. Ur 7. Fledermaus 11. Ores 14. Eager 18. EC 20. Ella 21. Lose 25. Doh 26. Eno 28. AV 30. DA
Sudoku – February answers
31. Everton winger, 1977-79: signed from QPR & transferred to Wolves (4,6)
General Knowledge Quiz 1. John Bunyan 2. Hamlet 3. 1948 4. 1880 5. Bilbao 6. Charles II 7. Ajax v Feyenoord 8. eye 9. seven 10. iron
This Month’s Quiz Answers
Across 1. “The Boys from the ----- -----“: Alan Bleasdale drama first shown on TV in 1982 (5,5) 8. Abbreviation for Iowa (US state) (2) 9. “Curved ---“: band who had the1971 hit single “Back Street Luv” (3) 10. Town which is “over the bridge” from Widnes (7) 12. “--, Myself, I”: 1980 Joan Armatrading chart single (2) 13. Annual motorcycling event in the Isle of Man (1,1,4) 15. Spooky, strange (5) 16. Automobile Association (1,1) 17. Vocalist (6) 19. Rear part of the foot, below the ankle (4) 22. European Common Market (1,1,1) 23. “--Greco”: Greek artist, b.1541, d. 1614 (2) 24. Request, book (e.g. in a restaurant) (5) 27. “---- Smith and Jones”: TV comedy series 1989-1998 (4) 29. “Up -- the Roof”: 1962 song by The Drifters (2) 30. Daphne -- Maurier: British author, b.1907, d.1989 (2)
1. Who released an album entitled ‘Liverpool 8’ in 2008? (a) Gerry Marsden (b) Paul McCartney (c) Ringo Starr? 2. Which Liverpool band had a 1991 chart hit with “There She Goes”? (a) The La’s (b) The Lightning Seeds (b) The Lotus Eaters? 3. “Ferry Cross The Mersey” was a 1964 hit for Gerry & The Pacemakers. Which other Merseyside band recorded it as the B-side of a 1980s hit single? (a) The Boo Radleys (b) Frankie Goes to Hollywood (c) OMD? 4. Bootle born singer, real name William Howard Ashton? (a) Elvis Costello (b) Billy Fury (c) Billy J Kramer? 5. Beatles lyrics: “In Penny Lane there is a barber showing……”: what? 6. Ian McNabb was the leader of which 80’s Liverpool band? (a) Flock of Seagulls (b) Pale Fountains (c) Icicle Works? 7. By what name is William Johnson (born Liverpool, 1960) better known? 8. What was the Beatles’ first no. 1 single? (a) From Me To You (b) Love Me Do (c) Please Please Me? 9. Which Liverpool group from the Merseybeat era took their name from a 1956 John Wayne film? (a) The Dakotas (b) The Escorts (c) The Searchers? 10. “The Killing Moon” was a Top 10 hit in 1984 and features prominently in the 2001 film Donnie Darko: which Liverpool band wrote and recorded it? (a) Cast (b) China Crisis (c) Echo & the Bunnymen? Competition Winners LILLY LINK P Varty L15 C Williamson L19 HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES H. Carder, L12 M. Foy, L24 AFTERNOON TEA DANCE – ADELPHI T. Mcdaid, L19 V. Stuart, L14
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Sefton Hockey – Women’s 5s attract a golden spectator By Jen Ratcliffe
ON A grey and drizzly January morning the last thing Women’s 5th team goalkeeper, Alex Walker, expected was to be inviting an Olympic gold medallist to watch their clash against league leaders, City of Liverpool HC. After answering a call on Twitter and seeing that the game fitted into the gap in her schedule, local Olympian Sam Quek agreed to come down and soak up some grassroots hockey. She arrived in time to see our Women’s 4th team succumb to a last gasp winner from Mossley Hill 1s, much to the devastation of a team who had put in a stellar performance for the second week running. After plenty of selfies with our visitor the game got under way. The thought of a gold medallist watching obviously spurred the players on, especially our defenders who were defiant, composed
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and committed. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, City of Liverpool were 3-0 up at half time. Cue the half time team talk from Sam herself! The words of encouragement clearly had a massive impact on the team; we were more threatening in attack and, despite being bombarded with penalty corners, kept a clean sheet for the second half. Last time the two teams met the Women’s 5s were beaten 9-1 so it was great
to see the development and improvement of players throughout the course of a season. Elsewhere in the club the Men’s 1s & Women’s 1s have a new home pitch at Liverpool Hope University and we are hopeful that it will be a strong partnership for both the club and the university. The Men’s 2s are still four points clear in their latest hot streak in NW Div 4 South, scoring 22 goals in four games.
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Feel infallible in the new L200 Barbarian
By Tim Saunders
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THERE is one vehicle that allows its driver to feel infallible – the fifth generation Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian compact pick-up truck. Some frustrating challenges occur during my time with this off-roader. It’s delivered during our house move. It’s completion day and the fridge needs shifting and so do the mattresses. The big Barbarian is parked outside our front door at some ungodly hour to allow my wife Caroline and I to hoist the fridge into the back. It quickly becomes apparent that the Mitsubishi is not as user-friendly as the Nissan Navara, which I had been driving previously. The latter had various gizmos that could be adjusted depending on the load carried for straps or ropes to be tied through, making it a real joy to work with. Not so on the L200. We get there though and successfully move the fridge. One of our new neighbours helps me unload it. On my return to the old house the weather becomes a bit questionable but this doesn’t matter because while a truck is usually open at the back, this particular L200 has a nifty heavy duty plastic retracting and lockable Tourneau cover, providing complete protection from the elements. A definite one up on the Nissan Navara I tested that
did not have such a fitting. On moving in we discover that the recycle bin hasn’t been collected. I toy with complaining to the council but think better of it, instead deciding to shove it in the back of the Barbarian and take it to the tip to do the job myself. You can’t do that in a Ford Fiesta. Not long after uploading my video review to my video channel (which you can find at www.testdrives.biz) I was contacted by an American viewer, desperate to get hold of this particular model. Mitsubishi informed me that it is not available for sale in the USA but could be exported there. As with all vehicles of this type the raised ride height provides a great command of the road ahead; it is noticeably taller than many other SUVs and 4x4s. The suspension is hard which really highlights the increasingly poor state of Britain’s roads. A long journey would certainly shake them bones! In fact it makes driving on the road feel similar to offroading in some places. With its black leather
interior, the driver’s seat is electrically adjustable. Unlike Nissan’s Navara, the Mitsubishi’s six-speed manual gearbox is decisive and its cruise control is easy to operate. There’s a helpful reversing camera that makes parking this brute easy-peasy. Fuel economy stands at well under 30mpg during typical driving. The double cab allows for five occupants to be transported. Additionally, Mitsubishi has added some bling. Aside from the chrome on the grille and steps, open the rear doors and a nightclub neon blue light greets passengers; popular with daughters Harriett (5) and Heidi (3). “But what does Barbarian mean?” questions Heidi. “It’s a prehistoric man, you know a hunter-gatherer.” “Like you Daddy?” “Yes, like me.” Mitsubishi L200 Price: From £18,299 + VAT Top speed: 109mph 0-60mph: 14.6secs Power: 134bhp Economy: 27mpg Watch the videos at www.testdrives.biz
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South take the lead through Alex Woodcock in the recent Rainhill Town game which ended 4-4.
South return to the top By Jim Stanway
DESPITE failing to win their last league match, South Liverpool FC returned to the top of the West Cheshire League first division when a last gasp equaliser in the home game against Rainhill Town saw us move above the previous leaders Neston Nomads on goal difference. The match against Rainhill was in contrast to our previous meeting with them only three weeks previously which South had won comfortably. Despite taking an early lead through Alex Woodcock, South found themselves 4-2 down at
half-time. Substitute Niall McHale made all the difference, scoring two goals, the latter an absolute screamer in the final seconds. South can now concentrate on the league having been eliminated from the league cup in controversial circumstances at Upton AA in Chester. Both teams were down to 10 men early on but it was the sending off of full back Steve Kelly with 10 minutes to go that gave the home side the advantage and they got two goals – a goalmouth scramble and a penalty! South’s reserves have not
played for a month but are still in a good position in the second division with games in hand as their nearest rivals drop points The youth team has been able to play due to the use of a 3G pitch in Skelmersdale and a 4-2 win over nearest rivals Mossley Hill, with goals from Rob Lewis, Curtis Elias (2) and Michael Kielty, has produced a healthy lead at the top of the division. The team are still in three cup competitions with the semi-final of the Liverpool County FA Youth Cup next against league rivals Litherland Remyca.
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