Best of Liverpool November 2010

FASHION

PLACES

FACES

FOOD

BEAUTY

HOMES

TRAVEL

Supplement

OF LIVERPOOL NOVEMBER ISSUE 2010

FIGURE HUGGING FASHION Style celebrates the female form

PUTTING THE BANG BACK INTO BONFIRE NIGHT Seasonal sizzlers to set you up for the fireworks

S I E F I L A CABARET

lli e n in M a iz L s a t u o s p Emma Dears ste

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR Hot trends for decorating your home this Christmas

WIN

TICKE TS F SCOU OR S PACIF E IC

SUITS YOU SIR // DANCE FEVER // LIZ McCLARNON // WHAT’S ON // CHRISTMAS WISH LIST // WINTER BREAKS // WONDERFUL WAVERTREE //

O B D R A W E M O H

D UN

SUPPORT AND ADVICE FOR YOUR CONVEYANCING NEEDS

0151 227 4545 www.maxwellhodge.co.uk 02

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Contents

BEST

NOVEMBER 10 17

10

OF LIVERPOOL

06

NOVEMBER 2010 NEWS 04 TALK OF TOWN The city’s movers and shakers

FASHION 06 SHOPPING FOR HER

30

Female fashion in fine form

10 SHOPPING FOR HIM How to look the part at the party

HEALTH & BEAUTY 08 SALON SPOTLIGHT Skincare under scrutiny

12 FITNESS Shape up for Christmas

CHILDREN 14 BONFIRE NIGHT Wrap up warm for dazzling displays

ENTERTAINMENT 16 HOMEGROWN TALENT Emma Dears and Liz McClarnon

18 LIVERPOOL DESIGN FESTIVAL A feast of local talent

19 THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO SEE Diary markers for November

FOOD AND DRINK 20 WINTER WARMERS Bonfire bangers and spicy delights

HOME AND GARDENS 24 CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS Hot trends and themes for 2010

Editor’s Letter SUMMER passed by like the blink of an eye and now we’re hurtling headlong towards Christmas!

We’ve barely got over the fright of Halloween and already the shops are full of all things festive but I must admit, we at Best of Liverpool are feeling the stirrings of Christmas spirit, especially after a visit to Taskers to see their latest Yuletide displays.

Plus, you can’t help but feel a surge of excitement when you see some of the fabulous fashions flying off the hangers. We bring you are pick of the best looks for him and her – guaranteed to make you turn heads at your Christmas party – with some dapper styles for the menfolk, ideal for razzling and a dazzling.

And for the ladies, we’re celebrating those female curves with the latest figure skimming styles. But to ensure you really sparkle, we’ve pinched some hot tips from the make-up professionals.

Whilst on the subject of beauty, Sue Kelbrick discovers a need to step up her skincare routine after having her skin analysed.

If you feel the need to lose a few pounds before Christmas but can’t face the thought of joining a gym, Sarah Hooley has the perfect solution with some fancy footwork.

To save you scouring the shops in search of the perfect gift for your nearest and dearest, Katie McLoughlin has found some gorgeous gifts for you.

But if the thought of spending the festive period with your loved ones fills you with dread (bah humbug!) then Paul Baker has found some great ways to escape and enjoy a winter break.

In the meantime, there’s plenty of things to keep you amused during the run up to Christmas. Emma Thompson has provided a packed itinerary of events to keep you occupied.

And don’t forget there’s Bonfire Night to look forward to! I personally will be heading to Sefton Park to see the fireworks with my family but don’t forget to wrap the little ones up! There’s some adorable hat and scarf sets around for the kids which you can see on page 14. And we have included some sizzling winter recipes to keep you warm on those cold nights.

One thing this city is never short of is talent and as usual, we send our talent scouts to find new faces to applaud in the world of entertainment, arts and design, as well as chatting to two lovely local ladies, performers Emma Dears and Liz McClarnon.

And this issue, we head over to Wavertree to discover the joys of this wonderful district.

Enjoy!

Michelle

GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS 26 GORGEOUS GIFTS Ideas for the whole family

OUT AND ABOUT 28 HEADING OVER TO

GET IN TOUCH LIVERPOOL ECHO EDITOR Alastair Machray

FRONT COVER SHOT Gavin Trafford

STORIES 0151 330 5035

MAGAZINE EDITOR Michelle Rushton

DESIGNERS Colin Harrison, Mathew Barnes

FAX 0151 330 4924

SALES MANAGER Frank Notton

Wonderful Wavertree

WRITERS Paul Baker, Katie McLoughlin,

30 WINTER BREAKS

Emma Thompson, Sarah Hooley, Sue Kelbrick

Escape the winter blues

PHOTOGRAPHY Trinity Mirror photographers

COMMERCIAL FEATURES EDITOR Sally Jones COPYRIGHT Best of Liverpool is published monthly by Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales/Liverpool Echo. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

EMAIL magazine@liverpool.com ADVERTISING 0151 330 5039 WEBSITE www.liverpoolecho.co.uk /liverpool-entertainment /best-of-liverpool/

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 03

Talk of town ROUTE TO SUCCESS

VIVA BRAZIL SOUTH American fever recently arrived in Liverpool with the launch one of the city’s first Brazilian Churrascaria restaurants.

Viva Brazil brought the authentic sights and sounds of this vibrant country to Liverpool, as a carnival of samba dancers and Brazilian drummers took over Castle Street.

The new dining concept which greeted guests as they arrived dates back hundreds of years to the days of the cowboys of southern Brazil.

The traditional Brazilian cocktail, Caipirinha, flowed throughout the evening, hand-shaken by a team of highly skilled bar tenders using Cachaca rum, freshly squeezed limes and sugar.

Passadors, or carvers, add to the authenticity of the restaurant – which is fitted with a Brazilian barbecue and salad bar, highlighted with large crystal chandeliers – by carving meat from large skewers for the diners.

MERSEY MAP FAMOUS people replacing the stations on the familiar Merseyrail route map? It might not sound the greatest recipe for success.

But the quirky take on a wellknown image, called Centre of the Universe, featuring such names as Dixie Dean at Birkenhead, Steven Gerrard at Huyton and Tiger Woods at Hoylake, has travelled all over the world as Liverpudlians send prints, bags and tea towels to exiles abroad.

On the rail diagram's alternative version, Dan Dare is at Southport (where the comic-book character was created) and Paul McCartney is at the nearest station to his Forthlin Road home — Liverpool South Parkway — with a bus link to John Lennon at the airport.

For its creator Graeme Currie it has been a labour of love as well as a successful venture. “It is wonderful to be appreciated. It's on people's walls in Houston, Sydney, Massachusetts — and Prenton!

“It would be very easy — and boring - to place people exactly where they were born, although Gerrard and Dixie are a must, as local heroes. I prefer to place people where they belong together, for example the trio of Mersey poets Roger McGough, Adrian Henri and Brian Patten.

“Or where there's a name with a coupling, like Seaforth & Litherland, I put Rushworth & Dreaper. There are also outsiders who made their mark such as Open Champion Tiger Woods at Hoylake; and poet Allen Ginsberg who called Liverpool 'The Centre of the Creative Universe'.''

Merseyshop.com and Hubcapmap.com stock the prints, cotton tea towels and cotton shorthandled and shoulder bags, while art lovers are also buying it from the Tate and Walker galleries as well as stores such as Waterstones and Blackwells.

City celebrations Michelle Rushton finds out what has been setting off the paparazzi’s flashes CREAM TEAS ALL ROUND

MOVERS AND SHAKERS THE great and good of the property world turned out in force to support the official launch of Davis Beyga Estates last month.

Guests were treated to canapés, cupcakes and Champagne while being given a guided tour of the plush new offices on Allerton Road.

Local business people, property developers, landlords and local vendors all expressed their support for the new business. Directors, Ben Davis and Elle Beyga were both delighted with the event. Elle says: “The launch couldn’t have gone better. Everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves and we are extremely grateful to them for their good wishes.”

Ben also expressed his delight with how the evening went saying, “We have been bowled over by the support we have received for Davis Beyga Estates. We believe this is testament to how much people recognise and appreciate the values of professionalism and integrity that we stand for.”

DINERS at Signature Café were treated to freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam to celebrate the venue’s first birthday.

Situated on the second floor in Rapid on Williamson Square, the café is known for its quality British hot food, cream teas and friendly staff.

Based in the old George Henry Lees building, the typical English heritage theme runs through the building to the café and on the wall of fame where you can see the likes of Ricky Tomlinson, Ken Dodd and many more.

SPARKLY PEEPERS DELICIOUS DELIS THE hot specials at Franklin’s Deli in Paul Square are a real Friday treat.

And soon we have the new Franklin’s Deli in the Metquarter to look forward to.

The new 1,500 sq ft deli will be fully licensed and boasts a 75-seater restaurant to tempt hungry shoppers with its classic café dishes such as smoked salmon scrambled eggs, lemon chicken salad and chicken Caesar club sandwich.

The menu has been created using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and we can’t wait to sample Suzie Franklin’s Famous Cupcakes!

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

THIS Crystal Eye Palette by Bobbi Brown is firmly at the top of our Christmas lustlist.

The limited edition eye palette, priced £34, was created with those Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve nights out in mind and is guaranteed to make your peepers glisten more than the glitter ball!

The eye shadows come in four gorgeous shimmering metallic shades of Diamond Shimmer Wash or Star Sparkle Eye Shadow with a pop of Amethyst or Marine Metallic Eye Shadow.

LOVELY LOCKETS THESE gorgeous Shakespeare lockets from Azendi at the Metquarter.

The beautiful literary lockets really are a work of art and come in sterling silver, rose gold vermeil or yellow gold vermeil heart or a sterling silver oval.

Priced at £95 for the small locket and £175 for the larger version, each dreamy poetry locket is inscribed with a famous message of love from the Bard.

What better way to declare your adoration? “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day...”

NOVEMBER 10

THE LENNON LOOK BEATLES clothing specialist, Beatwear, in Cavern Walks has been commissioned to create bespoke costumes for the brand new John Lennon musical at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre.

Packed with the music of Lennon and McCartney, the show follows Lennon’s life from Woolton Church Fete to New York, stopping off in Hamburg and at The Cavern along the way. All of the major players in the Beatle’s life appear, from his upbringing with Aunt Mimi to his later life with Yoko Ono. Beatwear, which designs and manufactures authentic Beatles clothing from the sixties including drainpipe trousers, collarless suits and zip leather boots, will supply the theatre with outfits custom-made for the production.

Lennon will run until Saturday, November 13 at the Royal Court Theatre.

Visit www.royalcourtliverpool.com for details.

CLOTHES THROW

CITY CENTRAL BID

THE Racquet Club in Liverpool played host to the second Clothes Throw fashion show which raised over £16,000 for the Alder Hey Imagine Appeal.

The event was hosted once again by British fashion designer Kirsty Doyle and costume and fine jewellery designer Benna Harry.

Guests were treated to an exclusive auction of clothes and accessories donated by international stars including Madonna, Sarah Jessica Parker and Coleen Rooney, who unloaded their envious wardrobes for the Appeal.

The fashion elite were joined by the super stylish Countess of Derby, indie scene trend setter Abi Harding from the Zutons and talented television and theatre star Suzanne Collins at the event.

Musical entertainment was kindly provided by The Big House (featuring Candie Payne).

CHRISTMAS IS COMING SPARKLE AND STYLE OVER 120 of the region’s most stylish ladies attended a glitzy party at Boodles flagship showroom in Lord Street.

A host of soapstars and WAGs joined those eager to see the inaugural Philip Armstrong Bridal Collection. The guests enjoyed Champagne and sumptuous canapés while DJ Mina provided great music.

A fashion show also featured pieces from Philip Armstrong’s Autumn/Winter 2010 collection as well as Boodles’ stunning diamond jewellery.

Guests included singer Natasha Hamilton, Hollyoaks’ actress, Alex Fletcher and WAGs Nicola Carragher, Chantelle Tagoe and Sophie Anderson.

TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND LIVERPOOL’S Hard Days Night Hotel paid tribute to John Lennon with the release of 70 white balloons to mark the legendary’s singer’s birthday.

The Beatlesinspired hotel invited personal friends of John Lennon to release the balloons, bearing messages into the sky left by fans and devotees.

The event was organised in remembrance of Lennon’s release of 365 helium filled balloons during his first full art exhibition, You are Here, which opened on July 1, 1968.

Special guests including the Beatles former booking manager, Joe Flannery attended, along with Bill Harry, the creator of Mersey Beat, a 1960s newspaper devoted to the Liverpool Music Scene.

Meanwhile, here’s a few more highlights to get us in the festive spirit: Rapid’s Grotto will open on November 6.

The Christmas lights will be switched on in the main retail area on Wednesday, November 10.

The Christmas tree light switch on will take place in Williamson Square on November 18, serenaded by the Salvation Army Band.

There will be street entertainment every Thursday in the retail area and Queen Square from November 18.

A family of real reindeers will be in Clayton Square every Thursday from November 25 until December 16.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOOKA! CELEBRITY guests set the paparazzi’s flashes alight at the fourth birthday party of Liverpool’s super cool salon, Hooka.

WAG Chantelle Tagoe, Dancing On Ice and Hollyoaks’ star Kieron Richardson, soap actress Bronagh Waugh, Big Brother’s Brian Belo, Sam Pepper and JJ Bird all attended the party on Wood Street which was sponsored by Asahi Beer and American Crew Hair Products.

The event was held to honour the salon’s fourth year in business, and celebrate the prestigious awards the talented team have picked up.

Owner, Dion Padan was awarded ‘Hairdresser Of The Year’ by Head & Shoulders a few weeks back and Amy Lou Cassidy picked up the Hair Magazines ‘Salon Stylist Award’ which is sponsored

by GHD.

PRETTY soon the city will be transformed into a winter wonderland of all thing’s festive.

City Central BID has lots planned for Christmas this year including the return of the ice rink at Williamson Square which was a huge hit last year and will be available from November 18 to February 19.

After twirling around the ice, you can enjoy traditional hot food in the hospitality area, from old fashioned sweets and hog roast, to doughnuts, Belgian waffles, crepes and gingerbread.

SNOW GLOBE METQUARTER will be offering shoppers a real treat this Christmas, especially on late night Thursdays.

From November 18, there will be Christmas choirs, gingerbread decorating, mulled wine with mince pies, free gift wrapping, children’s storytelling, and Father Christmas’s little helpers will be on hand to help children write letters to him.

Also, throughout Christmas, City Central BID has teamed up with Metquarter and installed a huge snow globe experience for a magical photograph.

See www.metquarter.com for full details.

On November 20, a 30ft Coca Cola ‘Holidays are Coming’ Christmas truck will park up in Clayton Square, opening up to reveal a Christmas brass band and Santa’s elves will distribute Coca Cola merchandise.

The Christmas markets will open on November 25 until December 21 with stalls situated throughout the retail area.

Merseyside Dance Initiative will be providing entertainment for a 12 days of Christmas promotion where the public can win prizes through Radio City by saying how they have been good, and why they deserve to win. The winner will be presented on December 23.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 05

Shopping for her Sequin trim, one shoulder dress, £40 from Jane Norman

Feel like a woman Sue Kelbrick finds out how the female form is being flaunted this festive season WITH the Christmas party season nearly upon us, it's time to track down the perfect party outfit so you can strut your stuff in style.

We sought the advice of Lois Molloy, a young stylist from Liverpool who prides herself on being the ultimate fashion victim. She might be young but she has used her time on this earth wisely to build up an encyclopaedic knowledge of all things fashion. So what she doesn’t know about being stylish ain’t worth knowing...

So what should the discerning fashionista be looking out for this season? According to Lois: “The female form is still being celebrated this coming season with the high waisted trend still very much in vogue.

“The figure hugging ‘body con’ dress has made a comeback for winter, with a few subtle twists . If the bodycon is too revealing for you, go for something slightly less fitted like a cape-sleeved or drape dress.”

And what about accessories? Lois says: “Big bags are still all the rage. Whether it be a daytime satchel or an enormous clutch for the evening, a large bag is this season’s must-have.”

Gold sequin tube dress, £20 from BooHoo

Engraved box clutch, £60 from French Connection

Gold off the shoulder dress, £59.99, from River Island

Lace and satin dress, £17 Primark

Sequin dress, £59, from Freemans

Outfit from Dorothy Perkins Sequin flower Alice band, £8 from Accessorize

Large black bow clutch bag, £12 from M&S

Snake oversized clasp clutch, £24 from Accessorize

Tight rope purple shoes, £88 from Office Grey feather earrings £8 from New Look

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Gold snake clutch, £6 from Matalan

NOVEMBER 10 Camel pleated double-breasted coat, £30 from George at Asda

Rib-hem aviator jacket £23 from Primark

Red Herring Borg aviator jacket, £55 from Debenhams

Camel check print coat, £179 from Hobbs in the Metquarter

Papaya aviator jacket £30 from Matalan

Red carpet glamour

Collarless camel coat, £69 from M&S

If the coat fits ONE of the few pleasures of the impending cold, dark winter months is the purchasing of a new winter coat and this year, more than ever, there are some fabulous styles to choose from.

Aviator-style jackets were everywhere on the runway and no self-respecting fashionista should be seen without one. The beauty is you don’t have to spend a fortune with the High Street excelling itself in skilfully recreating this hot look...

Fast leopard print coat, £120 from French Connection

Faux fur leopard coat, £95 from Lipsy

Leopard print coat, £45 from New Look

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FOR the ultimate style statement for the party season, check out The Closet.

The brainchild of Hollyoaks’ actresses, Leah Hackett, Jennifer Metcalfe and Claire Cooper, the concept is amazingly simple.

Browse through the girls’ collection of red carpet celebrity dresses and you can hire a frock worn by your favourite star or created by your favourite designer.

The Closet has teamed up with two exclusive designers, Philip Armstrong and Claire Mischevani, to offer clients a selection of their fabulous designs. With celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Penelope Cruz, Coleen Rooney, Tess Daly and Kym Marsh, regularly wearing their clothes, you really can look like a celebrity for that special occasion.

Celebrities have always loaned dresses for special events so take a leaf out of their book and you can wear a dress that you could only ever dream of actually owning.

And if you are overwhelmed by the sheer number of dresses available at The Closet, then you can take advantage of a personal stylist service to make sure that you leave looking dressed to kill.

For more information, visit www.theclosetliverpool.com or telephone 0151 708 9489 for a friendly chat about how The Closet can help get you looking fabulous for that special festive occasion.

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL 07

Health & beauty

NOVEMBER 10

BRING ON THE GLAM

Black Raspberry lip colour by Bobbi Brown

Photo: Clinique

Liz McClarnon with Anthony Costa who received a skin consultation from Jane Lewis at the opening of the Sk:n clinic on Bold Street, Liverpool

“BERRY colours are big news right now for lips,” says professional make-up artist, Helen Quinn. “And the beauty is that there are so many different shades of red to choose from it shouldn’t be hard to find a tone that suits you.

"Using a lip stain is a great idea as you get a really nice effect and it should last longer than conventional lipstick.

“For a touch of glamour, take a clear lip gloss and mix in some sparkly eyeshadow to create a fabulous sparkly, shiny look for your lips.”

And what about eyes? “There seem to be two distinctive looks around at the moment.

As well as the usual sparkly look for the party season, loads of Face Stockholm models on the eye dust catwalks have been seen wearing very bold, bright colours like greens and yellows. Not everyone suits such citrusy colours but if you can get away with it, then go for it!

“To create the ultimate party eyes, use a thin brush to build up colour rather than an eye pencil for a softer look. Check out the fabulous selection of sparkly eye shadows around at the moment which can help transform a day time look into a funky evening look instantly.

“And one final word of advice — remember that you should always go with what suits you rather than just what is trendy.”

Lash powder Mascara

by Clinique

08

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Skin deep Sue Kelbrick discovers what lies beneath with the latest in skincare technology AS soon as I heard the question: "Tell me about your skincare regime," I knew I was in trouble.

As a working mum, to say I don’t get a great deal of time to myself, is something of an understatement. So before the words even left my mouth, I knew that washing my face didn’t really count as a ‘regime’ in skincare terms...

So here I am in sk:n clinic in Liverpool city centre having an in-depth consultation with the lovely Carla Burgess, lead nurse.

The clinic prides itself on being at the cutting edge of skincare and offers a wide range of both cosmetic and medical treatments. These include laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, skin peels, Botox, treatment of veins and skin conditions such as acne and birthmarks, tattoo removal, skin tightening and teeth whitening.

Before anyone has any treatment at the clinic, they have a personal appointment with a fully qualified medical professional to discuss their needs and what they hope to achieve from their visit to sk:n clinic.

The idea is to take a holistic approach and tailor a skincare programme which is personally suited to the individual client.

After having a friendly chat, Carla looked at my skin under a magnifying light and straight away pointed out a few problem areas notably freckles (a sign of sun damage) and broken capillaries.

Next, she asked me to place my head into a bizarre contraption that wouldn’t

have looked out of place on the set of Dr Who but which she reliably informed me was a skin scanner. This high-tech bit of kit exposes any underlying problems with your skin which you can’t necessarily see with the naked eye.

And what a shock it was! As well as lots of pigmentation, there were blocked pores and areas of extreme dehydration. It was a real wake up call that if I didn’t start to look after my skin it really would start to show — and soon.

Carla was very gentle with me and didn’t chastise me for my lack of a skincare routine. Instead she discussed lifestyle changes that I could make to improve my skin such as drinking lots of water and making sure I use a factor 30 sun screen all year round.

She also recommended a course of chemical skin peels. Carla reassured me that skin peels have come a long way in recent years and she promised me that rather than looking like Samantha from Sex and the City after her disastrous chemical peel, once the damaged layers of skin were removed, my skin would look younger and fresher.

Deciding against the skin peel programme for now, I instead left the salon armed with a selection of creams, lotions and potions and a renewed determination to stick to a proper skincare regime in the future. And I have the picture of my damaged skin to serve as a constant reminder of the need to look after it!

Where is it?

In the heart of Liverpool city centre on Bold Street

What does it do?

Offering a comprehensive selection of skincare treatments and programmes, sk:n claims to be the UK’s leading skincare specialist and has more than 36 clinics nationwide and over 20 years’ experience in the industry.

Contact: sk:n, 12 Bold Street, Liverpool, L1 4DS, Telephone: 0800 028 7222 Website: www.sknclinics.co.uk

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 09

Shopping for him Mayfair Richard James suit from John Lewis

Christmas cracker Sarah Hooley discovers how to go from 'work' to 'wow' this Christmas...

WE'VE all been there. The shops are packed, the missus dragged you into a shop two hours ago (for what she duly promised would be a 'quick look') and you still haven't found a new outfit for your Christmas works do.

Fortunately, Best of Liverpool is on hand to help. And, in the interest of Christmas spirit we've rounded up some of this year's smartest suits, shirts and shoes finished off with some stylish accessories guaranteed to make sure you look a real bobby dazzler.

Silk bow ties, £25, from Peter Christian Velvet jacket from H&M

Autograph double breasted funnel neck coat, £129, from Marks & Spencer

Gent’s stainless steel strap watch, £139, from Rotary Suit jacket, £64, and shirt, tie and pin set, £28, from Next

Black men’s shoes, from H&M

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Suit trousers, £15, from Tesco Clothing

Grey herringbone scarf, £26, from House of Fraser

NOVEMBER 10

Ice cool

chunky alpine knits will have Straight off the ski pistes, these this winter... fashion (and you) all wrapped up

Black flecked knit trapper, £8, from Matalan

Alpine knitted sweater, from Urban Outfitters

Mantaray hand knit Fair Isle button neck knit, £80, from Debenhams

Jacquard jumper, £14, from Primark

Fair Isle shawl, £35; chinos, £18; black trainers, £15; navy and white fingerless gloves, £6, from New Look

Fair Isle scarf, £16, from Next

Mitten man gloves, £15, from French Connection

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

11

Fitness

NOVEMBER 10

Shape up for Christmas Sarah Hooley gets dance fever with the latest fitness craze... don't need a partner to join in.”

Karen adds: “We begin each class with a gentle warm up and teach everyone a selection of basic dance moves. Once these have been mastered, the class builds on them by learning new dance steps that concentrate on specific parts of the body each week. It's this mix of movement and exercise which makes Zumba one of the best all over body work outs around. It targets everything from wobbly legs and arms to stomachs, and come Christmas you will see definite results.”

For more information on Zumba classes at Millington's Dance Academy, visit www.millingtonsdanceacademy.co.uk or call 0151 922 3322.

Dancing queen pounds so is perfect for anyone looking to shape up before Christmas.

“The classes combine Latin dance moves with high-energy aerobic fitness, but that doesn't mean you have to be a natural dancer or fitness fanatic! One of the best things about Zumba is that it's open for every age and ability – and you

Here are a few more classes to dance your way to the body beautiful...

Movema MEANING 'to move' in St Lucian Patois, Movema is an exciting new company that provides world dance classes, workshops, performances and events in Liverpool and beyond.

Its classes include Zumba, Latin dance fitness and Movema world dance fitness which combines moves from salsa, Bollywood, Caribbean, Brazilian, afro-funk, flamenco and belly dance. Classes take place at the Black-E, Great George Street, Liverpool and the Fairfield Centre, Kensington, Liverpool.

Visit www.movema.co.uk

Picture courtesy of Andrea Smith

IF last year's party frocks are still a tad tight and you spend hours fantasising about the glitz and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing, Zumba could be the perfect solution to get in tip top shape this Christmas.

A Latin dance-inspired fitness class, Zumba originates from Columbia and thanks to its combination of hipswivelling music, fun atmosphere and aerobic dance moves, it’s become one of the latest exercise crazes to sweep the US and now the UK. An average hour-long session is estimated to burn between 400 - 900 calories and you only have to look at celebs like Kelly Osbourne to realise the weight loss effects of a good dance work out.

So, to see if our exercise prayers really have been answered, we tracked down Karen Moore, who teaches Zumba at Millington's Dance Academy in Bootle to find out more.

Owned by Derek and Iris Mayes, Millington's Dance Academy was set up in 1943 by Liverpool dancing queen, Constance Millington who was herself a regular judge on BBC's Come Dancing.

Karen, explains: “Zumba is a really fun way to keep fit, tone up and shed a few

Merseyside Dance Initiative (MDI) FROM ballet and tap to street dance and hip hop, Merseyside Dance Initiative (MDI) on Hope Street boasts an exciting line-up of dance classes. MDI is the regional dance development agency for Merseyside and the high-energy dance classes are split into beginner and advanced categories with something to suit every ability.

For a list of classes visit www.mdi.org.uk

El Rincon Latino YOU'LL find a warm welcome awaits at El Rincon Latino's dance classes. On Monday nights, budding dancers can join the salsa and merengue class from 8pm—10pm; with tango classes from 6pm—8pm and more salsa 8pm— 10pm on Wednesdays. The classes are open to both beginners as well as those more advanced. No partner necessary!

Call 0151 709 1177 or visit El Rincon Latino, Roscoe Street, Liverpool, L1 2SU for more information.

Thornton Hall Hotel gives you that skier’s edge IF you're heading off on a skiing break this winter then make sure you pay a visit to Thornton Hall Hotel & Spa's groundbreaking new sports clinic. An innovative facility, the clinic has been specifically designed to prepare skiers for their holidays and is brand new to Merseyside.

Angus Wood, a qualified osteopath, ski instructor and sports therapist, runs the clinic and uses a hi-tech piece of gym equipment called 'The Skier’s Edge' to help your body gear up for the up-coming ski

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

season. The state-of-the-art machine replicates a skier’s movements and improves aerobic fitness, as well as the body's core muscles providing the perfect preparation for any ski enthusiast.

Skiers can sign up for a few weeks or months before they go away and have a bespoke training and nutritional plan developed to suit their ability and fitness level.

For more information or to make a booking, contact the leisure club on 0151 353 0116.

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Children

NOVEMBER 10

Michelle Rushton looks forward to sitting back and watching the fireworks ON November 5, the sounds of “oohs” and “aaaahs” will be resonating throughout the city as families flock to their nearest firework displays to watch the skies light up in an explosion of colour.

And this year’s Bonfire Night promises not to disappoint with extravagant displays being organised throughout Merseyside in remembrance of Guy Fawkes’ failed gunpowder plot.

Liverpool City Council has put the feel good factor into its events this month to celebrate the Year of Health and Wellbeing.

Three of the city’s major parks will be lit up in a spectacular display of fireworks orchestrated to a 'feel good factor' soundtrack.

The events at Sefton Park, Newsham Park and Walton Hall Park start at approximately 7.30pm and last 20 minutes.

They provide a great night out for families but don’t forget to wrap your little ones up warm.

Here we have picked out some of the cutest coats and hats and scarves to keep them nice and toasty...

Walton checked dress, £43, and waistcoat, £30, from French Connection Hooded stripe cardigan, £22, from Mamas & Papas

Little girl's stripe knitted accessories, £6, from George at ASDA Coat, by No Added Sugar, £169 from Milo’s on Button Street Red knitted trapper, £5, from Matalan

Faux fur jacket, from £18

by F&F (ages 1-7 years), Tesco Clothing

Jeans from £12, top from £3, both by Cherokee, jacket from £18 by Cherokee Authentic and scarf, £3, by F&F. Right: Jacket from £10, top from £3 and jeans from £8, all by Cherokee and hat, £1, by F&F all from Tesco Long animal coat, £28 - £34, from Next

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

2 Piece skirt set, £24, graphic top, £16, fur/knit jacket, £35 and knitted hat, £14, from the Rock Bouquet Limited from Edition Collection at Mamas & Papas

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 15

The BIG interview

Like mother, like daughter West End musical star, Emma Dears, will transform herself into Liza Minnelli for new show Judy & Liza, opening in Merseyside this month. Paul Baker goes to the Cabaret to find out more...

AFTER so many years of being told how much she looked and sounded like Liza Minnelli, you might have forgiven Liverpool-born singer Emma Dears for steering clear of her Hollywood A-list doppelganger.

Not a bit of it though. And from talking to Emma, it seems she feels a real sense of pride in the comparison. So, the thought of a musical celebration of the lives of Liza and of her mother, Judy Garland, has never been far from Emma’s mind.

“Well, the idea, it’s been in my mind for 10 years really. I used to be in the West End and people said I looked and sounded like Liza Minnelli. I’ve always had this idea that I wanted to do something with that and I always wanted to do a show about Judy and Liza – it had always amazed me that no-one had ever done it before.”

because I was waiting to find someone who would be the perfect Judy Garland.”

Emma’s career, like Liza’s, lifted off at a tender age. But, unlike Liza there was no showbiz background to her upbringing.

“As a child I auditioned for Annie, got the part when I was eight and ended up touring when I was nine. My parents are not theatrical at all, so they must have just died when I got the part. I’ve done it for such a long time now – 27 years, which is a bit scary!”

Moving to London at the age of 16 and enrolling with the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, Emma hit the West End stage as part of the ensemble of Les Miserables and later Miss Saigon, eventually getting to play the lead role of Ellen.

But, missing her family and her home city too much, after 12 years she decided

Photos: Gavin Trafford

However, it was when Emma was working in Sweden playing the role of Carmen in a production of Fame that the idea for her new show ‘Judy & Liza’ really cemented itself.

“The part [of Carmen] was quite Liza Minnelli-esque, and the papers were saying ‘Oh Liza Minnelli, this and that’, consequently I got asked to go to Monte Carlo and perform as Liza in the Sporting Club there. That was my first real thought that, yeah, I should definitely look into this! Her songs are all great for my range, so it really works.”

Having an idea for the show was one thing, but finding a suitable Judy Garland was another, however, fate intervened in the shape of fellow actress Lucy Williamson.

“I met Lucy just under two years ago now. We’d never worked with each other but we were always up for the same parts.

It wasn’t until I met Lucy that I threw everything at it and threw it all together,

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

to return to the North West, where she has made her home in Formby and gained the platform from which to start her new production company and get Judy & Liza off the ground.

“When I left Liverpool there wasn’t the likes of LIPA available to me, which is why I went to London. Having come back and seen the advancement in that... I’m so proud of Liverpool and I honestly would not want to live anywhere else. The amount of arts and what it does for people and the amount of support I’ve had over the years, it’s just been fantastic, and I wouldn’t move anywhere else for a million pounds!”

Emma explains that the genesis of the show came from the famous 1964 Palladium concert that the talented mother and daughter did together, when Liza was only 19 years old.

“It’s pretty much chronological; we’re using the 1964 show as a general platform then start again at the beginning of Judy

Garland’s life. Basically Liza tells Judy’s story and then in the second half Judy tells Liza’s story. And there’s imagery as well, we’ve got a big screen and the orchestrations are fabulous so it all comes together quite nicely, if I do say so myself,” says Emma with a chuckle.

The show is just about to play at a number of venues across Merseyside this month, launching at the Hope Theatre in Liverpool today, before visiting the Theatre Royal in St Helens on Saturday, November 6 and then at The Floral Pavilion, New Brighton for two performances on Saturday, November 13.

But what songs can fans of these two grand dames of the stage expect when they see the show?

Emma admits she was a little overwhelmed by the wealth of material available to her but because the idea of the show was to tell the story of these women’s lives, there were certain songs that mirrored this so well that some of the choices seemed obvious, while others might be new to the audience.

However, when picking her favourites, for Emma, it just had to be the numbers when she gets to duet with her on-stage mother.

“Well, there’s a medley of Get Happy and Happy Days, which works really well – and there’s a number at the end, Two Lost Souls, where they’re dressed as tramps, that’s really fun.

“But in terms of the solos, I mean you can’t beat Over the Rainbow. But we’re doing it in a very different way, in quite a dark way really, because it’s to tell the story of when Judy is in a pretty dark place... I thought everybody’s heard Somewhere Over the Rainbow thousands of times, and this is a really interesting way of doing it so it tells a story.”

With a balance of both the light and dark times, the sadness and the joy, Judy & Liza looks set to bring both a smile and a tear to its audience. And while the Judy Garland story is at heart, a tragic one, Emma wants the story to show that her protagonist was a genuine great.

“When people die tragically young I think that makes them, in a way, more famous, but poor Judy, all her life she was being told she was on the comeback tour. The poor woman went from being a star to zero four or five times. And she died at 47 you know, only ten years older than me, and yet she seemed like such an old woman.

“I think the talent was just too big for one person and when you’ve gone through the life she’d gone through – from a child you’re in the machine of the industry – I just can’t

imagine that kind of life. You don’t get that kind of iconic figure anymore, maybe people are starting to come out now and be more original, but the likes of Garland, Streisand and Minnelli – they’re all legends, in the proper sense. We tend to bandy that word about a little too easily, but they really were and are.”

After opening across the North West this November and then a UK tour, Emma hopes to bring her Judy & Liza back to Merseyside next year. But before then, don’t miss the chance to be in some truly legendary company.

● You can find out more about the show online: www.judyandliza.com.

NOVEMBER 10

What's cookin'?

Katie McLoughlin meets Masterchef winner Liz McClarnon to talk The War of the Worlds and working with a 35ft, three-tonne alien... it is because it’s a big harmony part, but Jeff said that I’ve got to actually sing it live on the day! Nobody else has ever sang it live before, so it’s nice that he’s got so much faith in me and he’s worked with a lot of huge stars. He’s very cool to work with!”

Working with someone as talented as Jeff has obviously made an impression on Liz, but what have Jason and Rhydian been like to work with? “Jason is amazing,” says Liz. “He’s so professional because he’s like a real thesp.”

“The War of The Worlds is such a big production that it just seemed right and it totally is.”

Rhydian on the other hand is a real joker, which came as a surprise to Liz: “When I first heard Rhydian was on board – and I’ve told him this – I just assumed he was quite staid and then we did a photoshoot and they barely had any good pictures from it because we were just messing about so much, he’s incredibly funny!”

Building on its previous successes, Jeff Wayne’s 2010/11 production is billed as the best yet, with an 11ft high 3D floating hologram of Richard Burton, spectacular illusions never before attempted in arenas and a 100ft screen projecting a CGI animated movie in sync with the show.

“They’ve really, really stepped it up this year,” adds the Garston-born singer. “There’s a 35ft Martian tripod that stands on the stage – it’s so scary!

It shoots laser beams into the audience and then one of the cast members gets incinerated on stage by this fire flame!

It’s really weird, really scary and very interactive.”

With singing, levitating and special effects, Liz certainly has a lot to consider for her first-ever stage show.

So will her friends and family be coming along to support her? “Oh everyone’s coming,” says the 29-yearold. “My dad is a huge War of The Worlds fan – so he didn’t even wait for me to get him some house seats in Liverpool. He rang up on the first day and got his own, he was that keen to see it! And a lot of my friends and family are coming over for my first night in Amsterdam at the end of November.”

Liz’s former bandmates will also be coming along to lend moral support whilst the production is in the North West. “Tash will come to Liverpool most definitely and Jenny will probably come to Manchester,” says Liz. As well as starring in Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds, Liz has got a lot of other projects on the horizon, saying: “I’ve been offered a West End show, which sounds really, really good but I haven’t agreed to that yet, it’s all up in the air.

I’ve got a cookbook coming out at the end of spring/early summer, I’ve got my fiction novel, another cooking TV show coming up and Hotter Than My Daughter will air on BBC3 in February.”

The Garston-born singer, who won Celebrity Masterchef in 2008, has also got a signature kitchenware range in the pipeline and has become something of an amateur restaurant critic on Twitter.

With so much on her plate, Liz certainly seems to have found the recipe for success on stage and screen!

Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds - Alive on Stage! starring Liz McClarnon, is at the Echo Arena on December 7.

To buy tickets visit www.echoarena.com, call the box office on 0844 8000 400 or visit www.thewaroftheworlds.com

Photo: Gavin Trafford

EVER since the book was published in 1898, adaptations of HG Wells’ classic sci-fi novel, The War of The Worlds, have been captivating audiences.

Orson Welles’ 1938 radio adaptation caused terrified listeners to become panic-stricken. The first-ever film adaptation in 1953 won an Oscar for its special effects and Jeff Wayne’s 1978 musical version sold 15m records worldwide and won two prestigious Ivor Novello awards.

Now Liverpool’s own Liz McClarnon is tackling the classic tale of alien invasion in a new production – Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds – Alive on Stage!

So how does the former Atomic Kitten feel about starring in such a large scale production for her first-ever stage show? “I’m very excited” says the blonde starlet. “Apart from at school I haven’t done any stage work before but I was offered a lot of West End stuff all last year and the year before. I turned it down because of timing mostly and also because I want something that’s exactly right and perfect for me. This [The War of The Worlds] is such a big production that it just seemed right and it totally is.”

Liz, who’ll star alongside Jason Donovan and X-Factor’s Rhydian in the show playing Parson Nathaniel’s wife Beth, adds: “My part is sort of like the sweetness and light – I think that’s very apt for me!”

As you’d expect from a musical, Liz will have to undertake a lot of singing – including overcoming her fear of heights to do a harmony with Rhydian whilst levitating 30ft in the air! “And I’ve got to do the longest note ever,” adds Liz. “Jeff Wayne is a little tinker because normally they record it and then they cut it to make it longer than

ONES TO WATCH THE SAND BAND

THOMAS E LIGHTBURN

HOWARD BE THY NAME

THE brainchild of songwriter/producer David McDonnell and long time musical partner Scott Marmion, Liverpool’s The Sand Band take their influences from classic singer-songwriters like Leonard Cohen, Neil Young and Jackson C Frank, plus more modern artists ploughing a similar furrow, such as Spiritualized, The Verve, Elliot Smith and Calexico.

With dark love songs to break and mend the heart, the band meld beautiful and individual songs with atmospheric psychedelia.

The band’s forthcoming limited edition mini album, ‘All Through The Night’, promises to surprise willing ears and hopefully propel the band to new levels of success.

For more information check out: www.myspace.com/thesandband

UPCOMING historical novelist Thomas Lightburn is looking to get his big break into the world of writing fiction at the tender age of 74.

Having served 22 years in the medical branch of the Royal Navy, Thomas completed the RM Commando course and gained his green beret. Upon leaving the service in 1974, he taught at Liscard Primary School in Wallasey, before starting to write short pieces for the Wallasey News, The Wirral Journal and longer stories for a global magazine, The Sea Breezes.

His first book was The Gates of Stonehouse — a semiautobiographical novel covering Thomas’ early life in Wallasey and the navy. He has six more books to his name, set during WW2 and populated with characters from Merseyside.

If you’re interested in reading more about Thomas, visit amazon.co.uk and search for ‘Thomas E. Lightburn’.

A LIVERPOOL-BASED musical and visual artist, Howard Be Thy Name, offers an original and mind-altering experience whenever he puts on a show.

Howard and local filmmaker and animator Lee Isserow, recently presented their Project O.R. show at the city’s Kazimier club.

Howard’s project has been 10 years in the making, and consists of a combination of practical effects, projections, stop motion, digital animation, filmed and found footage, mixed with an eclectic blend of musical styles.

“We've got robots, projections, a giant singing head... I like to think of it as The Wizard of Oz meets Metropolis,” says Howard.

A condensed version of the show will be screening on the hour, every hour, until November 28, between 12pm and 6pm at Make Art Studios, 41-65 Duke Street, Liverpool, L1 5AA. www.HowardBeThyName.co.uk

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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Interior design

NOVEMBER 10

Designs for life Katie McLoughlin catches up with one of the city’s newest design talents.

Ant Clausen Photography

THE second annual Liverpool Design Festival & Show returns to the city on November 18-27. A celebration of contemporary design, the festival provides a platform for budding local designers to showcase their talent.

Ahead of the event, Best of Liverpool caught up with Danny Gouden — a partially-sighted designer from Garston — who beat off stiff competition from throughout the country to win the coveted title of Britain’s Next Top Interior Designer in a prestigious competition run by Grosvenor earlier this year.

Competition entrants were briefed with designing a studio apartment for an urban professional in Grosvenor’s flagship One Park West building, with entries judged by designer to the stars Ben de Lisi, Kate Kingston from Kingston Shaw and Alex Proby, inhouse interiors expert at Grosvenor.

Danny impressed the judges with his vibrant, Roy Lichtenstein-inspired design and was named as one of the country’s best new design talents, alongside Alexandra Jensen-Humphreys from London.

One of a growing number of talented designers to emerge from the city in recent years, Danny’s winning design was implemented into the iconic One Park West building in late March/early April and the oneof-a-kind apartment has since been snapped up by a keen buyer.

Danny, who plays for the England Football Association’s partially-sighted team, says:

“Winning was amazing — it was great to see my design in One Park West and after doing all my renders, the apartment was just as I imagined it.”

As well as seeing his design come to life, as part of his prize Danny got to stay in the apartment and live in his design for a weekend. The prize also included an internship at interior design practice,

Kingston Shaw, which Danny is looking forward to undertaking.

Turning a One Park West apartment into a colourful, contemporary space was a dream come true for Danny, who says his dream design project would be a hotel, which he can transform from a blank and empty box into a complete design scheme.

“I really enjoyed the

competition as it’s exactly the sort of thing I want to work on,” adds the 22-year-old.

Following on from winning the Britain’s Next Top Interior Designer competition, Danny has graduated from Liverpool John Moores University with a first class degree in interior design and is now looking for a new design challenge to sink his teeth into.

Ant Clausen Photography

LIVERPOOL is a city famed for its love of aesthetics — from fashion to architecture, interior design and art — it’s fair to say Scousers have an eye for design. So it’s no surprise that after a fantastic first festival last year, when nearly 8,000 people visited the event, the Liverpool Design Festival & Show is back and bigger than ever.

During the 10 day festival, which takes place from November 18-27, there will be design events across the city with opportunities to view exhibitions, watch films about design, hear talks about the use of design in landmark buildings, meet independent designers and much, much more. On November 20 and 21 there’ll also be a Design Show in St George’s Hall where you can meet local designers like Ilsa Parry, who won BBC show, Design for Life; plus makers of jewellery, fashion, furniture and ceramics amongst others.

For full event details visit www.liverpooldesignfestival.com

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Ilsa Parry

Liverpool Design Festival

Things to do, places to see

NOVEMBER 10

Emma Thompson braves the cold to find out what's on in Liverpool this November

BY DAY

BY NIGHT Winter Arts Market

Liverpool Music Week

DISCOVER an original gift this Christmas at The Winter Arts Market in St George’s Hall with works from over 80 of the North West’s most skilled artists and makers.

Taking place on Saturday, November 27, between 10am and 5pm, Open Culture presents a huge festive shopping extravaganza where you can find distinctive gifts in the glorious surroundings of St George’s Hall.

You will find thousands of items including: jewellery, paintings, homeware, sculptures, textiles, beauty products, prints, photography, plus vintage items and much more.

This year’s event also features a special Feel Good Fair where local health and wellbeing organisations will present inspiring ways to beat the winter blues!

Entrance on the day is just £1 — children under 16 years enter for free!

THERE'S still time to catch the excellent line-up at the fabulous indoor winter music festival, Liverpool Music Week.

Still to come are performances from Leftfield, Efterklang, Chase & Status, K’naan and New York dance-punk trio Liars, plus many more!

This multi-venue festival also has exciting free line-ups at MOJO, including Sleigh Bells and O Children, Chapel Club, Los Campesinos and Miles Kane who will make his Liverpool solo debut since success with The Last Shadow Puppets.

Visit www.liverpoolmusicweek.co.uk

Steve McQueen Tribute ON the 30th anniversary of his death, remember the king of cool in this fitting tribute by Steve McQueens’s widow with a book signing, photo exhibition and film screening will come.

Barbara McQueen is coming to the UK to promote a new book on Steve McQueen which tells the actor’s story through the eyes of those who knew him best. Accompanying the 200 passages are hundreds of photos illustrating McQueen’s life and movie career.

Author Marshall Terrill, who spent three years compiling the book, and Barbara McQueen will be in Liverpool on November 6 at Woolton Picture House with a film screening of The Hunter at 11am and then a photo exhibition and book signing at Madelainartz Art Gallery in Clayton Square Shopping Centre at 3pm.

Entry is £1 which will be donated to a fibromyalgia charity.

For more details visitwww.wooltonpicturehouse.com or www.madelainartz.com

WIN

Here Come The Girls

Christmas Market NOW in its sixth year, the wonderful continental Christmas Market is set to return to Liverpool with a whole host of treats on November 25.

Over 45 charming wooden chalets will grace the city centre streets selling delicious food from hog roast to paella, as well as festive crafts, decorations, jewellery and perfect presents from all over Europe. It also features a fully licensed bar selling German beers and Gluwein.

The Christmas Market is planning to run from November 25 until December 21.

TICKETS FOR SCOUSE PACIFIC A SHOW not to be missed, Scouse Pacific starts at the Royal Court Theatre on November 26 and takes you across the oceans to the exotic island of Secosu.

Many years ago, shipwrecked stowaway Billy Riley from Walton, was washed ashore, finding himself on an island that was populated mainly by women. Billy made the most of it and now, in 2010, his legacy continues — an island community of Scousers in the South Pacific!

Raised on sunshine, bananas and stories of ‘home’, evolution has created a Scouse master race. With a cast featuring Paul Duckworth, Stephen Fletcher, Lindzi

Germain and Andrew Schofield, it's sure to be a cracker!

Tickets from £10, call 0870 787 1866 or log on to www.royalcourtliverpool.co.uk for details.

We've got two pairs of tickets to give away for November 26, simply answer the following question: Q. Where does Billy Riley come from?

Send your answer with your name and number on a postcard to Best of Liverpool, Commercial Editorial Unit, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB. Deadline: November 19.

ENJOY a big dose of girl power as Lulu, Anastacia and M-People’s soul star Heather Small hit the Echo Arena stage on November 25.

With a brand new £1m stage set, new songs and routines as well as a new seven-piece band it’s sure to be a great show. This music extravaganza mixes high-octane, high camp, get-up-anddance songs, against a backdrop of breathtaking glamour and fun, fun, fun!

Tickets start from £25, log on to www.echoarena.com or call 0844 8000 400.

Edwyn Collins in Concert SEE Edwyn Collins playing a special gig in The Well at The Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on November 13 at 8pm, you won’t be disappointed.

Edwyn Collins formed the group NuSonics in 1976 which later became Orange Juice. He has since pursued a successful solo career as a musician, in addition to work as an illustrator, television actor and producer, and as a record producer.

Tickets are £15, from www.ticketline.co.uk

Homotopia NOW in its seventh year, Homotopia is Liverpool’s unique celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture. It features dance, international theatre, comedy, cabaret, poetry, literature, film, exhibitions and for the very first time — a youth strand, ‘Right To Love’, programmed by and for teenagers.

Performances have already started and just some include; the show Factory Floor on November 12; exciting contemporary dance Man Made on November 11; lesbian comedy and music night ‘Lavender Girls’ on November 6, all at Unity Theatre.

Enjoy tea with American author, Armistead Maupin, while he reads from his latest novel ‘Mary Ann in Autumn’ at the London Carriage Works restaurant.

The youth strand includes: documentary Sex, Drags, Rock’n’Roll on November 5; photo exhibition Big Gay Kiss, as well as the Big Gay Prom on November 12 at Parr Street Studios and Big Gay Night In on November 16 at FACT. Visit www.homotopia.net for full listings.

DaDa Fest THIS wonderful deaf and disability arts festival takes place between November 12 and December 3 across Liverpool, and will be celebrating its 10th year.

Disabled and non disabled artists from all over the world will perform and exhibit at DaDa Fest International 2010, a two week extravaganza of artistic wonder.

Enjoy Heidi Latsky’s GIMP the dance sensation of four disabled and four nondisabled dancers; acclaimed playwright, Katie O’Reilly will by unveiling her work for the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad; David Toole and Lucy Hind perform in Extra-Ordinary; Krip-Hop Nation from the USA will be performing and holding workshops; and Mat Fraser, star of Channel 4’s Castaways will be in numerous performances.

Visit www.dadafest2010.co.uk for full listings.

MUST DO MUST TRY...

TO catch a murderer at Croxteth Hall’s murder mystery night special with ‘the Unusual Suspects’ Tabitha Christie’s Ten Little Santa's.

On November 25 at 7.30pm (and also December 2) you are invited to a festive celebration — but the mysterious hosts are no where to be found! A murderer is on the loose; and may already be in your midst! So who sent the invites and why? Solve the mystery before the body count rises!

Tickets are £19.50 including a light buffet, and available to purchase from the Hall Gift shop (weekends only), log on to www.croxteth.co.uk or call 0151 233 6930.

MUST HAVE...

A REFRESHING cuppa at the new Leaf Tea Shop and Bar which is set to open on November 25 on Bold Street.

Leaf will host art, music, club nights, hundreds of varieties of tea, delicious food and a great atmosphere, while providing a place for people to relax and enjoy culture.

November also sees the original Leaf Tea Shop and Bar on Parliament Street, L8 undergo a small face lift, rebranding to Leaf Baltic and the launch of the Leaf online shop, www.thisisleaf.co.uk where you can get a selection of delicious teas.

MUST REMEMBER...

TO sign up for the Midnight Candle Walk on Friday, November 12 in Sefton Park to raise money for local charity Clatterbridge Cancer Research.

Hundreds of families are expected for this five-mile walk starting at the stroke of midnight. The registration fee is £10 and includes an electronic candle. Creativity is encouraged with prizes for the highest fundraiser and best fancy dress costume.

Pre-registration is required, visit www.midnightcandlewalk.org or call Sam Archibald at Clatterbridge Cancer Research on 0151 343 4300 or email samantha.archibald@ccrmail.org

MUST SEE....

MELANIE Chisholm staring as Mrs Johnstone in Blood Brothers at the Liverpool Empire Theatre.

The former Spice Girl and chart-topping solo star received fivestar reviews in her theatrical debut of Willy Russell’s musical in London and is set to wow audience in her home town of Liverpool.

Blood Brothers is on for two weeks only from November 8 to 20. Visit the Liverpool Empire booking office on Lime Street, or visit www.liverpoolempire.org.uk or call 0844 847 2525 for information and tickets.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 19

Food & drink

A corking curry Katie McLoughlin educates her palate at The Gulshan THE complex flavours and spices of Indian food mean many people find it difficult to pair the cuisine with fine wines.

So in a bid to prove that fine wines can complement Indian dishes, The Gulshan, held a Wine and Spice evening on October 12.

Never one to miss out on the opportunity to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine (or a good glass of wine for that matter!) I went along to the event held in the Aigburth Road restaurant’s glam cocktail and lounge bar.

Jad Rahman from the restaurant says: “As challenging as it is to pair Indian flavours with wine, if done right it can bring the food up to a whole new dimension. We feel we have an excellent wine list in the restaurant and the evening was designed to encourage

customers to look beyond the house wines and explore what else we have to offer such as the Gewürztraminer and Carmenere.”

The second Wine and Spice evening to be held at The Gulshan, the event was a huge success with diners treated to a five course gourmet menu specially created and personally cooked by Mustafa and Salina Rahman.

The Gulshan joined up with Vinea for the event, with Daniel Harwood from the Albert Dock wine bar, shop and deli attempting to successfully match the flavours of the food and wine.

The gourmet feast commenced with a spicy lamb Nehari soup paired with a round, fruity Viognier; a green banana tikki matched with a subtly sweet Gewurztraminer; slow-cooked Lucknowstyle braised lamb shanks paired with a rich Rioja, and pan-fried tilapia marinated in Bengal spices matched with a light, fruity Beaujolais.

A palate cleansing lemon sorbet and Prosecco completed the flavour-packed five-course feast, with Daniel giving diners an informative talk between each course to explain each match.

Jad adds: “The idea of these gourmet evenings is to introduce different dishes and flavours to what we usually have on our menu. It allows us to have fun and be creative coming up with exciting new dishes. It’s also great to have Mustafa and Salina (mum and dad) back in the kitchen cooking together! We’re hoping to do many more themed events like these in the future to showcase different cooking techniques and ideas.”

Jad is now in the midst of planning a menu for a potential Whiskey and Spice evening to showcase The Gulshan’s 50strong selection of whiskies in its cocktail lounge.

He says: “The challenge of combining spicy dishes without overpowering the whiskey will be an interesting one and one that I’m looking forward to.”

For more information contact The Gulshan on 0151 427 2273 or visit the website at www.gulshan-liverpool.com

A taste of the exotic Spice up your month with this authentic Indian recipe, says curry connoisseur Katie McLoughlin THERE’S nothing better than a hot, spicy curry to warm you up on a cold winter’s night, so to mark National Curry Week, which runs from November 21-27, we’ve hand-picked a mouth-watering Indian recipe from the Liverpool Cook Book.

A real melting pot of vibrant cuisines and cultures, Liverpool offers a taste of all four corners of the globe. Exploring the city’s unique culinary identity, the Liverpool Cook Book features recipes from some of the city’s finest restaurants, talented chefs and celebrities.

Featured in the Liverpool Cook Book, this recipe for Jolshanu gosht (a succulent lamb shank cooked in a Bengalstyle, thick Jolshanu sauce) is from The Gulshan — one of the city’s finest Indian restaurants.

Famed for its authentic cuisine and uber-stylish surroundings, the Aigburth Road curry house, which was founded in 1986, has been listed as one of the Top 100 Indian Restaurants in the country and received a gold five-star plaque from the British Curry Awards.

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Jolshanu gosht Ingredients: ● 4 lamb shanks ● 6 fresh green chillies ● Generous helping of fresh coriander ● 2 large cinnamon sticks ● Sprinkle of black pepper ● 5 cardamon pods ● 1 tbsp of turmeric ● 1 tbsp of garam massala ● 1 tsp of chilli powder (or to taste) ● 1 tbsp ground cumin ● 1 star anise ● 5 cloves ● 4 bay leaves ● 4 tbsp chopped fresh ginger ● 8 cloves crushed garlic ● 6 chopped ripe tomatoes ● 4 chopped onions ● 1 tbsp salt (or to taste) ● 5 tbsp yoghurt ● 4 tbsp of mango chutney ● 10 sun dried apricots ● 400ml water ● 3-4 tbsp olive oil

Method: Gently warm the olive oil in a large deep pan, add the onions with the garlic, ginger, salt and dry spices of cloves, star anise, cinnamon, cardamon and bay leaf. Sauté on a low heat, softening onions to a golden brown.

After the onions have turned brown, add the rest of the spices (cumin, turmeric, garam massala, chilli powder and chillies). Stir gently for 5 minutes, then add 2 cups of water and the chopped tomatoes, then stir for another 5 minutes.

Add 400ml of water then place the lamb shanks in the pan and leave on a medium to slow heat for an hour and half stirring gently.

Add the yoghurt, mango chutney and apricots and simmer for an hour and half (minimum) until the sauce thickens and shanks have become tender. Serve sprinkled with fresh coriander.

The Liverpool Cook Book is available from www.merseyshop.com, £14.99, or call 0845 143 0001.

NOVEMBER 10 SWEET TREAT

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING recipe from The Quarter, Falkner Street: Ingredients: ● 55g butter ● 170g demerara sugar ● 2tbsp black treacle ● 1 tbs golden syrup ● 2 eggs ● 200g self-raising flour ● 200g pitted dates ● 290ml boiling water ● 1 tbsp bicarbonate of soda ● 1 tsp vanilla extract

Bonfire night bangers Katie McLoughlin finds some warming recipes the whole family will want to dig their Fawkes into this month CELEBRATE British Sausage Week (November 1-7) and put some bang into your Bonfire Night with these scrumptious sausage and mash recipes from local butcher, AR Tym’s in Wavertree and renowned restaurant 60 Hope Street.

THIS recipe uses sausages created especially for last month’s Liverpool Irish Festival by AR Tym’s, which you can buy from the butcher’s Smithdown Road shop.

For the boozy gravy: ● 1 tbsp butter ● 6 onions, thickly sliced ● 1 can Guinness ● 2 cups beef or chicken stock ● 1 tbsp flour ● Salt and pepper to taste Method: Fry the sausages on the lowest heat and leave to cook for up to an hour. Allow 10 minutes between each turn to ensure the sausages become brown and moist, with all the juices inside.

Meanwhile, peel and boil the potatoes until very tender. Drain and mash until smooth.

Add the spring onions and milk to a small saucepan and bring to the boil.

Add the milk, half the butter and spring

For the pudding moulds: ● 30g soft butter ● 30g flour Method: Using a food processor, cream the butter and sugar together. Slowly add the golden syrup, treacle and eggs. Continue mixing until smooth, then turn down to a slow speed and add the flour. Mix until well combined.

Add the boiling water to the dates and tip into a blender. Secure the lid firmly and blend to a puree. Add the bicarbonate of soda and vanilla, then pour into the pudding batter while it’s still hot and stir well.

Pour the mix into the pudding moulds and bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops are just firm to the touch.

To make the sauce, place all of the ingredients into a pan, bring to the boil, stirring a few times and then remove from heat.

When cooked, remove the puddings from moulds, coat with the warm toffee sauce and serve with good vanilla ice cream.

Liverpool Irish Festival sausage, colcannon and boozy gravy

Ingredients: ● 12 Liverpool Irish Festival sausages ● 3lbs (1.5kg) potatoes, floury variety, coarsely chopped ● 1lb (500g) cooked curly kale or savoy cabbage, finely shredded ● Bacon fat (for the cabbage water) – optional ● 2oz (25g) butter ● 1/2 pint full fat milk or single cream ● 3/4 cup spring onions, chopped ● White pepper

For the sauce: ● 110ml double cream ● 55g butter, diced ● 55g dark muscovado sugar ● 2 tbsp black treacle ● 1 tbsp golden syrup

AR Tym’s sausage dish

onions to the mash, beat until fluffy then transfer to a large heatproof bowl.

For the gravy, melt the butter in a heavy skillet over a medium heat and add the onions. Cook for 15 minutes to caramelise, stirring every few minutes to prevent them from burning.

Pour in the Guinness and the first cup of stock, turn the heat down and allow the gravy mixture to reduce by half.

For the colcannon: cook the cabbage (traditionally this should be boiled in water with a piece of bacon fat and half the butter, until the cabbage softens), mix the chopped cabbage into the mash and season with salt and lots of white pepper.

To finish the gravy, add the second cup of stock, stir and turn off heat. Mix the flour with 1/4 cup of cold water and add to gravy.

Cook for two minutes over a medium heat, stirring constantly and season to taste.

Add the cooked sausages to the gravy and serve hot over colcannon.

Bangers and mash with balsamic onions THIS recipe was provided by 60 Hope Street which sources its meats from Cumbria-based, Lakes Speciality Foods, and its sister company, Pinks, produce the award-winning Celebration sausages used in this gourmet recipe.

Ingredients: ● 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks ● Slurp of milk/cream ● 75g butter ● Salt to season ● White pepper, freshly milled ● One pack of Pinks Celebration sausages

For the balsamic onions: ● 1 large red onion, finely sliced ● 175ml balsamic vinegar ● 1 tbsp olive oil ● Salt and white pepper ● 1 tbsp sugar (optional) Method: Put the potatoes into a large pan and cover well with water. Season with salt, bring to the boil then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Meanwhile grill or pan-fry the sausages until cooked through.

Drain the potatoes in a colander then return to the pan and dry out the potatoes on a low heat.

Mash the potatoes, add the butter, cream or milk and mix well. Season to taste. To give the mash an extra dimension you could add mustard or horseradish.

For the balsamic onions, add 1tbsp of olive oil to a warm sauté pan and add the onions. Fry on a low heat for five minutes or until soft. Add the balsamic vinegar and reduce to syrup.

Add the sugar, season to taste and serve on top of the sausage and mash.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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NOVEMBER 10

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JD parties will make your Christmas and New Year party go with a schwing HAVING entertained over half a million guests with party extravaganzas in its grand marquees, JD Parties has learnt a thing or two about how to create the most successful Christmas and New Year parties.

For 2010, the company's theme party, ‘Puttin on the Ritz,’ at Knowsley Safari Park promises to be the most spectacular yet, full of sparkle.

Arrive in your tiaras, top hat and tails and soak up the glamorous atmosphere as you are entertained with enchanting sounds from the baby grand piano. Enjoy dinner under the stars, then fabulous singers and dancers will enthrall and excite you with a spectacular performance as the 1930s truly comes to life – from tap to tango, swing to ballroom it will be a show like no other!

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there’s a good reason to have a flutter!

Parties run from November 26 until December 23, along with a special New Year’s Eve Ball and prices start from £57.50 per head.

New for 2010, in addition to its fantastic party nights, JD Parties is delighted to be able to announce some new and exciting live bands: Sunday, December 5 welcomes The Overtures presenting a faithful and dynamic tribute to pop’s greatest decade, they have rapidly built their reputation as the finest 60s tribute band in the country. Elton John loved them so much he booked them to play at his wedding and quotes: “They’re just the best band of their kind in the world.”

Tickets only £49.50.

Or if you fancy a night of sensational swing jazz & jive, classic pop and soul – Schwing on Sunday, November 28 is the night for you.

This six–piece band is led by the captivating pianist and vocalist Anthony Kinsey, who has the contemporary style and sophistication of Harry Connick Jr, the charisma of Jamie Cullum and the vocal talents of Michael Buble. You’re guaranteed a truly unforgettable night

and tickets are only £39.50!

So whatever you are celebrating this Christmas and New Year, get your friends, family and colleagues together and join the best party in town.

Call now on 0845 757 3043 or visit www.jdparties.co.uk

Food and drink

NOVEMBER 10

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0151 966 1466 Our website address is www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-liverpool Radisson Blu Hotel 107 Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L3 9BD, United Kingdom Tel: 44 151 966 1500 Fax: 44 151 966 1501 Email: info.liverpool@radissonblu.com

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Open daily for lunch and dinner - until 11pm on Saturdays • Opening Times Bar Italia is open six days of the week: Monday-Friday: 11.30am too 3.00pm Tuesday-Saturday: 5.30pm to 11.00pm • Party Bookings Bar Italia also offers the option of booking tables for parties from 10 up to 50 people. If you are interested in booking a party then please contact: bookings@baritalialiverpool.com

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL 23

Christmas decorations

NOVEMBER 10

Michelle Rushton shines a light on the latest trends in festive decoration THERE’S nothing better than dusting down your decorations and hanging up the fairy lights to get you in the festive spirit.

But if your tinsel’s lost its sparkle, your baubles have seen better days and your angel on the top of your tree looks like she’s been at the cooking sherry, then it’s time to invest in some new adornments.

The trends for Christmas decorations change each festive season so what’s hot for 2010?

We asked the experts at the newly refurbished DIY and home store, Taskers which recently underwent a £1m makeover at its Aintree and Wavertree branches.

It now offers even more inspirational home solutions with a new lighting department, new kitchen and bathroom studios, new cookware and giftware sections and an extra furniture department – all featuring high quality, branded products.

And as usual, Taskers has created some fabulous Christmas displays. We caught up with Jay Tasker to find out more.

“Building on the success of last year, we have increased our Christmas themes this year offering 16 unique themes for the home,” says Jay. “Our inspiration is taken from around Europe and beyond, with ideas carefully woven together to provide spectacular displays that are easily achievable for customers to replicate at home.”

According to Jay, pencil trees are still as popular as ever. He explains: “We have doubled the range from two to four options – green, white, silver, and purple!

“But if space saving trees are not for you, you can try the opposite end of the scale with our best selling

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Rocky Ridge range which is a truly luxurious tree with very dense foliage.

“For convenience, why not try one of our pre lit trees, in particular, our Rocky Mountain Spruce that comes with 400 white heavy duty LED lights already assembled on the tree?

“For a contemporary look, we have a beautiful black tree with frosted iridescent tips called the Manhattan tree, inspired by city living New York style.”

Indeed, energy efficient LED lights are still big news this year and Taskers is offering a huge selection which are longer lasting with harder wearing bulbs and lower energy consumption.

Jay says: “New for 2010 include a solar LED lighting range suitable for around your home or garden which will power up through the day, and turn on automatically during the evening with zero running costs.

“While super-bright LEDs remain our best selling sets, we also have stunning cluster LED lights and LED icicle lights – all fantastic value for money.”

Meanwhile, Jay sheds light on some of the store’s main themes for Christmas 2010:

● Polar Christmas: A luxuriously decorated snow-flocked tree adorned with ice-white LED lights, encrusted baubles, frosted glass decorations, sparkling iridescent garlands, and hanging jewelled decorations providing a truly stunning winter theme. ● Starry Night: The traditional silver look takes on a twist with a blaze of blue glittered decorations, royal blue glitter roses, birds of paradise, and butterflies to create a contemporary look with a classic style.

● Traditional Elegance: Tartan is a prominent look for Taskers’ 2010 traditional theme and showcases the traditional spirit we all associate with Christmas. It includes tartan ribbon, burgundy poinsettias, classic golds, and rich greens eloquently entwined to provide that warm Christmas charm. ● Groovy Christmas: “Psychedelic purples, citrus greens, pretty pinks, groovy greens – this is our take on what Christmas fun is all about.” says Jay. “We have carefully selected this theme to brighten up anybody’s home with funky scooter decorations, disco ball divas and one or two more surprises that you will have to see to believe!

For more information visit www.taskersonline.com

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T Tel:eel:- 0151 525 4844 Open:p Mon-Fri Mon-F ri 9am-7 9am-7:30pm, 7:30pm, p Sat 9am-5:30pm, p Sun 10:30am-4:30pm 1 p Wavertree R Wavertree Road, oad, W Wavertree, aver e tree, L7 1PH. T Tel:eel:- 0151 70 708 08 6098 Open:- Mon-Sat 9am9am-5:30pm, -5:30pm, T Thurs hurs 9am-7:30pm, Su Sun un 10:30am-4:30pm

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL 25

Christmas gifts These sparkly headphones are perfect for glam musiclovers, £39.99, from River Island

Little ones will love this Winter Crumble Bear, £14, from Mamas & Papas

Novelty and nice, this Cyber Quest gift, will bring a smile to his face £48, from Littlewoods.com

Gorgeous Christmas gifts a What’s on your Christmas wish-list?. Katie Mcloughlin takes

sneaky peak at your letters to Santa

Music lovers will be thrilled with this Apple iPod touch 8GB, £149, from Marks & Spencer

The perfect gift for chocoholics, Hotel Chocolat Everything Sleekster Chocolates, £20 from John Lewis Mrs Claus herself would fall head over heels for these Lapin Twist Strap Sandals, £75, from Topshop Aptly named, this Fagin men's wool trilby is perfect for keeping hubby’s head warm whilst dragging him around the shops, £45, from Reiss

Aleksandr won't mind if you compare these wind-up meerkats, £8, from Debenhams

Everybody needs somebody to love and if you give her this Benefit Some Beauty to Love set it is sure to be you, £29.50 from Debenhams Men's driving gloves, £25, from Marks & Spencer

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

NOVEMBER 10 Your better half will be a smooth operator with this Clinique Expert Shave set, £25, from Debenhams

This Pin Art gift, is sure to make a good impression, £15, from Littlewoods.com

She'll feel like Sleeping Beauty in this pink lace cami and short set, £18, from Marks & Spencer

This Talking Jet Pack Buzz Lightyear, will amuse children to infinity and beyond, £40, from Debenhams

This Duchess leopard print wallet is sure to prove spot on for your style-savvy sister, £89, from Reiss

Fill your girlfriend’s stocking with this Kinky Cupcakes book, £9.99, from River Island

I dare you to find a kid Who doesn't like this 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver, £15, from Debenhams

If your girlfriend could get lost inside a paper bag, give her this Binatone G430 sat nav, £75, from Marks & Spencer This Safia boxy shoulder bag ticks all the right boxes for your bag-obsessed best mate, £179, from Reiss

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

27

Heading over to…

NOVEMBER 10

HIDDEN GEMS

Wavertree Botanic Gardens

Mango Restaurant THIS stylish restaurant and wine bar offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with tasty home—made food.

Situated on Dryden Road in Wavertree Technology Park, Mango Restaurant and Wine Bar provides a delicious menu with plenty of choice from sirloin steak baguettes, home—made burgers, and scampi, to spaghetti bolognese and chicken curry, to name but a few.

The restaurant and bar has regular jazz music, a pool table in the bar area, a licence for 200 guests and a function room is available. Mango is open Monday from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday from 9am to late and Saturdays and Sundays for private functions.

Call 0151 254 2124 or log on to www.mangowinebar.co.uk for details.

Rouge Beauty NOW offering a great range of beauty treatments and make-up, Rouge Beauty reopened its doors two months ago after undergoing a complete refurbishment when Nina Huxley took over the business.

The salon, on Picton Road, provides everything from relaxing massages and facials to everyday beauty treatments such as lashes, waxing, threading, manicures and nails so you look fabulous all year round. Plus with Christmas approaching Rouge Beauty will ensure you're ready to party. There's a make-up artist able to apply your going-out make-up and also on a Friday and Saturday, a hair stylist sets up in the salon.

The make-up area in Rouge Beauty also caters for wedding make-up as well as special occasions.

Call 0151 733 4114 to book.

Terry Tang Designer Cakes IF you're after that wedding cake to wow your guests or an excellent celebration cake, Terry Tang Designer Cakes on Picton Road is the place to go.

Terry is a master class award-winner and has been decorating cakes for many years.

The cake shop caters for weddings, birthdays, christenings, anniversaries and corporate events, as well as providing wedding favours.

There are a beautiful range of cake designs on display including traditional, contemporary and novelty cakes but if you have something individual in mind then the cake can be designed to suit your needs, including an extensive variety of flavours and fillings for your wedding cake.

Visit www.terrytangdesignercakes.co.uk or call 0151 735 1221.

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Picton Road looking towards the city centre

Photo: Paul Heaps

Picton Road Clock Tower

The wonder of Wavertree Emma Thompson takes a wander around Picton Road IDEALLY nestled between three main road links in South Liverpool, Wavertree has a wealth of shops and services including excellent sports facilities.

Unless you already know Wavertree well, it’s not the first place you think to shop, but Picton Road and the surrounding areas of Wavertree offer a whole range of stores specialising in from home furnishings to fresh baking or beautiful flowers to name but a few.

Picton Road is lined with an array of local companies ready to offer you a personal service that many high street stores just don’t provide. There are also the nearby roads of Edge Lane and Smithdown Road which are home to a vast selection of stores, restaurants and bars.

Whether you’re hoping to splash a bit

of cash on yourself, give your home a makeover, are looking to find an extra special gift or want to pick up some everyday essentials, a quick browse around Wavertree will reveal everything you need. You could always indulge in a spot of pampering too, and with several excellent beauty and hair salons plus barbers, it couldn’t be easier to complete your transformation.

The area has a wealth of cafes, pubs and bars too whether you want a quick refreshment while out shopping or a relaxing drink after work.

Wavertree is steeped in history and is said to be mentioned in the Doomsday book, with local buildings that really stand out such as The Lamb Hotel with its tales of hauntings and old underground links. The Picton Clock Tower is, of course, a well-known local

Wavertree Sports Park

landmark which was constructed in 1884 by Mr James Picton as a memorial to his wife.

There is also the ‘village lock-up’ more commonly known as Wavertree Roundhouse which was built in 1796 and later modified by local resident and architect Sir James Picton, and is now a listed building. The Roundhouse, which is actually octagonal in shape and originally had a fairly flat roof, was built to lock-up local drunks and it is said cholera victims were put there in isolation, as well as supposedly serving as a temporary place to stay for Irish families trekking out of Liverpool.

Wavertree Botanic Garden and Park situated off Edge Lane offers somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the main high streets to go for a stroll.

Originally set in the park was Liverpoolborn William Roscoe’s famous Botanic Collection until the destruction of the Greenhouse, which was a stunning structure, during World War II. The Walled Garden at the park is open 10am to 3.45pm October to March, but closed on Bank Holidays.

From the old to the new, Wavertree has a superb Athletics Centre off Wellington Road. It boasts an eight-lane athletics track with a 475 capacity spectator stand and an indoor training facility. At the great new sports park you can also enjoy the Liverpool Aquatics Centre which has a 50m Olympic-size pool, as well as the modern fitness suite, indoor tennis courts and football pitches.

So whether you fancy doing a little shopping, treating yourself or enjoying the local facilities and parks, Wavertree has plenty to offer.

Best of Wavertree

NOVEMBER 10 E E TH AS AT RE BE INC T VA

Penny Lane Kitchens ORDER NOW FOR GURANTEED CHRISTMAS FITTING AND TO BEAT THE VAT INCREASE

CALL FOR FREE DESIGN PLAN 374/376 Smithdown Road Tel: 0151 733 3998 44 Brows Lane, Formby Tel: 01704 876600 Mon-Fri 9.30 - 5pm Sat 9.30 - 4.30pm

Open 7 Days, Mon - Sat 9-5, Sun 12-4

Roja Ladies Boutique 479a Smithdown Road Liverpool L15 5AE

Tel: 0151 733-3411 E-mail: roja-womenswear@hotmail.com www.rojaladiesboutique.co.uk

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All works fully guaranteed - Plumbing, Electrics, Gas, Joinery & Tiling ALL WORK CARRIED OUT BY OUR OWN CRAFTSMEN - RUBBISH REMOVAL, THE LOT! Mango Restaurant, Wine Bar & Function Room – The hidden gem of Wavertree Technology Park Opened its door in January 2009 and has grown in popularity month on month.

Open from 9am for breakfast and specialty coffees. Serving fine wines, draft beer and bottled beers. Homemade food including our famous homemade chips – Meals start from £4.95 Kids are welcome, and meals start from as little as £2.50 Function room available to hire at weekends licensed until 2am for up to 200 people BRING THIS VOUCHER WITH YOU AND GET A FREE GLASS OF WINE WITH EVERY STARTER AND MAIN COURSE PER PERSON 12 Dryden Road Wavertree Technology Park Wavertree 0151 254 2124 www.mangowinebar.co.uk

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Travel

Winter retreat Take a break from tradition and get away from it all this winter. Paul Baker looks at the options.

Greenwich: picture courtesy Britain On View

Chichester: picture courtesy Britain On View

Lincoln: picture courtesy Britain On View

Winter snow of the Alps

F the stress of Christmas and the thought of the coming winter wind and rain is all getting a bit much for you, a strategically planned winter break is the perfect solution.

You could take advantage of the fact it’s winter and head for one of Europe’s fantastic ski resorts, with the Alps and Pyrenees just a short plane ride away.

Or, when the weather gets tough, why not get going? Further afield that is, for a winter break in the sunshine!

If the thought of sitting and shivering in front of the TV sounds about as appealing as a dose of flu then get looking and booking a holiday to give you some respite from the wind and the rain.

During the short days and cold nights everyone can get the winter blues in some way or another, so it pays to hunt out a winter break bargain.

It makes sense to scour the offers in travel agents’ windows and, of course, the internet is a vital tool for getting the best deals.

How about a golfing holiday in Portugal or hitting the beaches of the Algarve? There are so many sunny destinations to consider that aren’t too far away – Turkey, Greece, the Canary Islands, Tunisia, Cyprus.

If you want a luxury break with guaranteed sunny days, the likes of Qatar and Dubai beckon, or how about Barbados or the Maldives?

Mind you, sometimes it’s not the cold

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Maldives

that’s the problem, just the being stuck indoors all day, looking at those same four walls. For that reason, you might find it preferable to swap the house for a hotel and let someone else worry about the heating bills for a few days.

Winter breaks in the UK are proving ever popular with couples opting to get away over the winter months for a romantic city break to warm up their love life.

London is, of course, one of the destinations of choice thanks to its mix of tourist attractions, shopping, historical landmarks and just the fact that you can explore the huge city knowing there’ll be something of interest around every corner.

Many staycationers combine a visit to the capital with a chance to take in a West End show. Be it a Broadway musical or a play boasting Hollywood screen talent, it’s not a bad shout for your city break.

That said, there are top breaks available to all our major UK cities, with the likes of Newcastle, York, Glasgow and Bristol proving popular alternatives, along with our many smaller cathedral cities and picturesque towns waiting to be discovered.

There’s a lot to be said for a coastal retreat this winter, too. While visiting an out of season seaside town might not at first seem a great idea for a holiday, there’s a certain romance to be found in the faded glamour of the English seaside resort.

Plus, you can get a superb out of season deal from many of the great hotels and guest houses that line seafronts across the country.

Imagine walking hand-in-hand along a Victorian promenade as the winter tide rolls in and the low sun washes the beach in a ruby glow; it’s such a peaceful image – the perfect way to blow away those seasonal cobwebs.

Greece

London’s West End: picture courtesy Britain On View

Inspirations Wholesale

Inspirations Wholesale

Established in 1990 Inspirations Wholesale has grown to become one of the largest wholesalers of florist supplies and interior designers in the UK. Stocking over 50,000 products including a large range of Smithers Oasis floral products we have new items arriving every day from all over the world. As a wholesaler of distinctive homewares we stock a diverse range of products from homewares and furniture to decorator accessories and affordable giftware. Our 27,000sq ft unit is easily located, just off the A41 in Bromborough on the Wirral.

Florist Supplies . Interiors . Gifts . Candles

Tel. 0151 334 0818 for enquiries.

Christmas has arrived at Inspirations!

Celebrating our third Christmas in our new building, we are excited to bring you a wider selection of Christmas decorations than ever before. Our Christmas department sparkles with everything from trees, lights and large shop display items down to tree trims, packaging and much more. Our display team work hard every year to produce stunning displays packed with ideas and inspiration for every setting. If you are looking to decorate a hotel, venue, wedding or home, a visit to inspirations is a must.

Matalan

Chester

A41 New Chester Rd A41

Christmas Open Weekend Fri 5th, Sat 6th & Sun 7th Nov Join us for a glass of wine and a mince pie Bow Making Demonstrations Christmas Arrangement Demonstrations

Visit our 27,000sq ft Warehouse:

Old Hall Rd

Birkenhead WE ARE HERE

FREE Membership*

Old Hall Road . Bromborough . Wirral . CH623NX

Tel: 0151 334 0818 Email: office@inspirationswholesale.co.uk www.inspirationswholesale.co.uk *Offer valid upon presentation of this voucher. Voucher valid to 30/11/2010

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