The Liverpool Magazine Issue 20

Page 1

The

Magazine News - Culture - Music - Business - Motoring - Food & Drink

Gardening - Property - Family - Health - Events

INTERVIEWS Marcus Brigstocke Mystery Jets George Clarke

FASHION Life’s a Beach

BOTTOMS UP Top Summer Tipples

WIN

Amazing Prizes Inside

Featuring Merseyside’s Best Properties

THE LIVERPOOL MAGAZINE COM



Gold Awards in Reportage Weddings, Creative Portrait, Fine Art and Fashion and Beauty.

The Meadows Studio, 102 Liverpool Road South, Maghull, Liverpool, L31 7AG


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CONTENTS ABOUT OUR COVER

FASHION

"Garden in Warden", Grahame Ashcroft 117cm x 178cm, oil on canvas Grahame is a professional artist, based in Merseyside, North West England. His paintings are in private & municipal collections, both in the UK & abroad. Describing the process behind his work, he says -"My paintings combine observation, memory and imagination, not always in equal parts. From these basic elements I persuade the images towards some kind of coherence. There is something about this process that I find fascinating, absorbing and utterly compulsive." We sourced Grahame through local art consultants, dot-art. The Liverpool-based art gallery and consultant exists to make affordable, locally sourced and original art accessible to all and to help artists promote and sell their work. Contact Lucy on 0845 0176660 info@dot-art.com www.dot-art.com

FASHION It’s getting hot, hot, hot - and things are certainly brightening up. Get your sunglasses at the ready and head to the beach. Yes, it's finally summertime people. This season is shining with bright colours, we're pairing our corals with our pinks, our turquoises with our prints. Get yourself a cheeky coral bikini, try Pucci’s new collection at emiliopucci.com for some seriously bright inspiration. Some killer clogs and big (we are talking huge) statement jewellery then you’ve cracked it. We're loving the tribal printed bikinis, with fabulously sexy shells, and a multitude of glamorous gold chains. Look at Claudia Pink's range of stunning bikinis and accessories for this season's must haves, at Claudiapink.com. Fancy a change from all those brilliant bright’s why not try some striking stripes? Nautical is still here and its stronger than ever. Red and navy has not looked sexier. Check out new to the U.K designer J.CREW for some nautical numbers. Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about all you men out there. If you're headed to the beach this summer, grab your board shorts, oh yes we know you love them! We want them bright, gentlemen. We're talking lime green, bright blue, coral and grey stripes. Check out ‘Hugo Boss’ for bright reds and blues. Or if your feeling really hot, get out those classic beach shorts. Who likes short shorts, I hear you ask? We like short shorts! The place to be is ‘Paul Smith’ for those stripy short shorts the girls love! To complete your beach look, why not add a trilby hat and take a look at ‘Patongs.com’ for some simply stylish flip flops. Now you're styled, you're looking fabulous. Get your lotion on and those beach hats at the ready, because ladies and gentlemen it's time to turn up the heat! Photography: Anne Brocklehurst 07793 063047 | Shoot Co-ordinator: Christine Cartwright – Impact Models | Stylist: Samantha Gilbertson – Impact Models | Hair & make up: Kate Smith using MAC and Dermalogica – Impact Models | Models: Rebecca Davies Jones, Serena Sophia & Ollie @ Impact Models. | Photography assistant: Caroline Harkness – Impact Models | Shot on location @ Southport. | Styling assistant: Melissa Kelly | Re-toucher: Jasmin Celjo | Impact Models: www.impactmodelsagency.co.uk Tel: 0151 495 2266 | Stockists: Next - Church Street, Liverpool. Diesel- Met Quarter. Claudia Pink – Met Quarter. Reiss – Stanley Street, Liverpool. Armani Exchange – Met Quarter. Patongs – www.patongs.com. www.rocksforfrocks.co.uk

Black frill bikini, ÂŁ30 Next | Gold chain body piece, ÂŁ50 Claudia Pink

The Coral bikini, ÂŁ55 Reiss | Necklace, ÂŁ12 Next | Bangles, ÂŁ10 each Claudia Pink | Ring ÂŁ12 Claudia Pink Sandals ÂŁ12 patongs.com | Hat- stylists own

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Magazine News - Culture - Music - Business - Motoring - Food & Drink

Metallic bikini, ÂŁ30 Next | Bangle ÂŁ10, Claudia Pink | Green bangles, ÂŁ15 Claudia Pink

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www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

10/6/10 11:53:07 20 - June 2010 Magazine.indd 16

20 - June 2010 Magazine.indd 15

14/6/10 14:41:22

Gardening - Property - Family - Health - Events

4 CULTURE

32 BOTTOMS UP!

FASHION

5 SOCIAL

Things to do and people to see

35 WHERE ART MEETS NATURE

Life’s a Beach

BOTTOMS UP

7 MUSIC

37 INTERIORS

8 INTERVIEW

41 HEALTH

11 NEWS

43 GLOW FROM WITHIN

15 FASHION

45 BUSINESS

20 LIMELIGHT

47 CHILD’S PLAY

INTERVIEWS Marcus Brigstocke Mystery Jets George Clarke

Summer drinks special

Arts and events in Merseyside

Top Summer Tipples

RHS Tatton Park artist Tony Heywood Sleek kitchens from Cabriolet

We hook up with the Mystery Jets

WIN

Amazing Prizes Inside

Learn to cook healthily with Can Cook

Interview with comedian Marcus Brigstocke

Get your skin ready for summer

Get the best bits here THE LIVERPOOL MAGAZINE

Featuring Merseyside’s Best Properties

front cover.indd 1

16/6/10 15:53:20

PUBLISHERS:

23 A TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS SHOW 51 MOTORING

EDITOR:

Jenny Morris

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang hits Liverpool

Mitsubishi and Mazda

25 COMPETITIONS

53 GARDENING

28 BITE

56 PROPERTY

Mike Ellis

INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW

Dave Evans, Diane Thompson, Anne Brocklehurst

ADVERTISING:

Jayne Pinnington, Graham Cass

DISTRIBUTION: 0151 530 1478

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Interview with George Clarke

Where to eat and what to drink

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTRIBUTORS:

Subscriptions: 0151 530 1478 Editorial: 0151 530 1512 | editor@a-cpublishing.com Advertising: 0151 530 1478 | sales@a-cpublishing.com

Specialist tips from our expert

Fantastic prizes to be won!

DESIGNER:

CONTRIBUTORS: Georgina Berry, Jack Kellet, Frank Davis, Impact Models, Samantha Gilbertson, Paul Knowles, Pavlos Shakas, Steven Hay

In the Night Garden – Live in Liverpool

Who turned heads at Liverpool’s best events?

Anna Woodhams, Clare Horton

CONTACT:

Going Solo - Setting up your own business

Life’s a Beach

COM

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theatres you’re very much on your own, doing your own thing . The chance to work with a director and a whole cast of people to find the funniest way of doing something that is already really, really funny is very exciting from my point of view.

Hi Marcus – so, how do you feel about your imminent musical debut? As excited as I could possibly be and as terrified as I could possibly be in exactly the same moment – this is a big departure for me in some respects; I mean obviously the fact that it’s comedy and the fact that it’s on stage and the fact that it’s a show is very normal for me – the fact that it’s a musical is a big deal and I want to get it right. I’ve been having lots of singing lessons – it’s amazing, I mean this is a script written by Monty Python – it doesn’t get much better than this!

You’ve got several strings to your bow – as a writer, comedian, actor, presenter – do you prefer to be directed or is improvisational comedy (such as Argumental on cable channel, Dave) your preferred method? I would say the thing that I’ve enjoyed the most in what I do is the fact that it’s been so varied – the fact that I tour for a bit, then do radio for a bit, then do telly for a bit then tour for a bit – and just mix it up. So yeah, having a script that someone else has written is a real privilege for me because I don’t have to worry about it too much, but then on the other hand you kind of feel like ‘Ooh okay – can I put this in here, can I do this, can I make it funny like that?’ and it’s that kind of collaborative process that is really good fun – especially being on stage with other people trying to work out how to make those relationships funny and good to watch.

Did you find it quite a natural crossover from stand up then – if you were ever going to do a musical, this was it? Definitely, and in terms of being a natural crossover I’ve done a lot of sketch shows and characterbased shows on telly, radio and at the Edinburgh Festival. My comedy acting stuff, I’ve just kept that going – that’s not too big a departure, it’s just I’ve been a touring comic for the last twelve years or something, and once you get to

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– do you follow politics personally, or is it purely a source of comic material – or both? The reason I talk about it comedically is because I care about it passionately. It matters to me a great deal what happens and without wishing to be over-sentimental about it, the way in which people take care of other people is something that is very important to me. So yeah, I follow it personally – I mean obviously it provides a lot of good material but I’ve always thought; find a story that you care about, then find out why you care about it – what is it that bothers you or interests you and then find the comedy, rather than ‘this is already funny – ha ha ha isn’t John Prescott a big clumsy, punching oaf?’ Well yes, sometimes he is, but it’s not that aspect of John Prescott that interests me comedically – do you know what I mean? And the same with David Cameron – alright, he’s an Eton posh boy, and Gordon Brown is blind in one eye and has seemingly no charisma at all...those things are inherently amusing but I’m more interested in reading into what they are, what are they representing, where have they come from to get to where they are and what are they going to do. The Monty Python fans are obviously going to flock, as they have been doing, to see Spamalot this August and to see you perform as King Arthur – is a daunting role to fill? I’m not thinking about it from that point of view because I’m not trying to do it like Graham Chapman did, or like Tim Curry when he did the show because this script is 75% lifted from Monty Python’s Holy Grail, so it’s very funny, all the jokes stand up anyway. Yes, they’re scary boots to fill in some respects but on the other hand I think I actually know a fair bit about Python, I certainly know my way around comedy, and my feeling is that if this is really good fun for all of us doing it that the audience will really love it. The thing that Python did brilliantly was to take being silly very seriously, and that’s what I want to do. Marcus will star as King Arthur in Spamalot at The Liverpool Empire from 9-14 August. To book your tickets please contact 0844 847 2525 or visit www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK

" ! # " $ $ $ $ " ! !

| 132 DUKE STREET, EAST VILLAGE, LIVERPOOL | 0151 709 4002 | WWW.ILFORNO.CO.UK | When I first moved to Liverpool a decade ago, Duke Street was home to not much more than a half-decent Chinese and a dodgy drum and bass nightclub. These days the street is warm with the glow of a good number of the city’s top eateries – none more so than the flickering flames illuminating the entrance to the upmarket Italian – Il Forno. With the undeniable boom in restaurant numbers in the city, competition is fierce to stay ahead of the game especially with the establishments that graced the streets before the glory days of 2008. So – has this muchrevered and nationally applauded Italian lost any of its suave, slick Italiano charm over the years? Has it heck. We were ravenous as we scoured the menu – you can go all out here, indulging in the traditional four to five courses the Italians favour, or pop down for a glass of wine and a pizza fired in the flaming mouth of the restaurant’s focal point; the pizza oven found in the depths of an imposing statue’s mouth. Or – if you’re a dessert queen like me – park yourself outside with a double espresso and scoff bowl upon bowl of ice cream...today I was dining a la carte however, so my gelato-

UNCORKED

By the time this interview is printed, we’ll know who’s won the election

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FOOD & DRINK

| 25 VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL | 0151 258 1800 | WWW.REFORM-LIVERPOOL.CO.UK |

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fest would have to wait. My Bresaola (thinly sliced cured beef) with rocket and parmesan (£7.95) was deliciously more-ish, not too heavily flavoured but with a richer taste than Parma ham, and contrasted nicely with the crunchy, peppery freshness of the rocket (drizzled with a balsamic dressing and lemon juice) and the recognisable tang of parmesan. Adam’s gamberoni (king prawns - £8.95) were plump, juicy and perfectly cooked. The accompanying sauce of garlic, olive oil, chilli, cherry tomatoes and croutons was salivatingly sweet whilst allowing the flavour of the prawns to continue to shine. The dish that caught my eye on the mains didn’t disappoint – a duo of steamed sea bass and salmon (£17.25) with asparagus, cherry tomatoes and a delicious, buttery crushed new potato centre was divine. The fish had been cooked in such a way that both encased the potato, a cross section of the meal displaying a layer of opaque, white sea bass, then juicy pink salmon and potato. This was so, so good – one of the better fish dishes I’ve enjoyed in the city, not just because of the novelty of two fishies merged together, but because the execution of the

dish was wonderful and the flavour sublime. Over the table, Adam was gleefully tucking into a glistening veal shank (£16.95), braised with rosemary, carrot, orange zest – this traditional Italian dish, ossobuco, was served with a risotto Milanese (a deliciously simple risotto combining white wine, parmesan, saffron and onion) and had excellent depth of flavour. Presentation of both was fantastic and devised with care, flair and expertise – bellissimo! Throughout the meal we sipped on wines from the extensive menu and were pleased to see an impressive list of wines by the glass. I enjoyed the Gavi di Gavi, La Mesma at £6.50 whilst Adam went for a gorgeous smooth red – the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo at £6 per glass. Dessert - Adam went for Tiramisu (£5.45), predictable beast that he is – but blooming lovely it was, too. My Coppa Amarena was something else altogether – a soft, towering bowl of vanilla ice cream punctuated with layers of amaretti biscuits that had been soaked in port, then drizzled with amarena cherry sauce and black cherries. Il Forno - I think I love you. JM

LEARN TO TASTE LIKE A PRO

method 20 years ago. What concerns me is that there are so many people trying to make a quick quid out of a subject that should be a pleasure to do. The sharing of information is invaluable so long as the person(s) holding such events have the required knowledge. Tasting wine aids palate development, but sensory analysis involves the comprehension of the polyphenolic compounds, acidity, alcohol levels and ketones, not to mention carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption levels in sparkling wines and many other factors such as barrel and bottle ageing which are too

Thanks to you all for taking the time out to read this column. Well, if you’re reading this edition you’re reading right. Pavlos Shakas at the controls of what should have been a column about South African wines! But the late change to the proposed column is because of a recent advert that was brought to my attention by a customer of mine. It was titled something along the lines of – ‘Learn to taste wine professionally in the blink of an eye!’ - I wish I’d known about this

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If there was ever a place that made you feel more like a celebrity, Reform is it. Located on Victoria St. – the old Casa Bella – this new restaurant has certainly pulled out all the stops. Walking up to the entrance, we were greeted by a red rope and a ‘red carpet’ floor, definitely VIP worthy. Once in the beautiful restaurant we were sat at a private booth complete with leather sofa seats and flat screen TV’s. Kate, our lovely waitress brought us some bread and olives (ÂŁ2.95) whilst we perused the menu. The homemade warm Tuscan bread is hands down, the tastiest bread I’ve ever eaten; cake-like in texture, it was hard not to gobble the lot. Assistant manager, James, agreed saying he couldn’t resist. Luckily, Mum and I were able to pace ourselves for the delights that were to come our way. I opted for the Tempura of King prawns (ÂŁ7.50) to start

and mum had the soup of the day (ÂŁ4.95) which was carrot and coriander. My prawns were perfectly cooked in a batter so light you’d forget they were fried. They were accompanied by a sweet chilli sauce which I am officially renaming ‘Reform’s famous sweet chilli,’ perfect after several attempts at getting it right according to James, superb (and nothing like the bottled stuff.) Mum said her soup was the perfect consistency and just the right amount. On to the next course and carrying on the fish theme I went for Sea Bass (ÂŁ17.50) with chunky chips (ÂŁ2.95) and a side salad (ÂŁ1.95.) two delicate fillets of perfectly cooked sea bass sat upon a bed of Mediterranean vegetables in a chilli, lime and parsley sauce. It was beautiful. Being a big fish fan, this was definitely up there with the best. Ever so delicate mummy dearest went for the manliest of meals, 8oz

British fillet steak (£21.95) which came with 2 mushrooms and tomatoes on the vine, again with sides of chunky chips (£2.95) and salad (£2.95.) She hailed it as perfectly rare with no fat whatsoever, seasoned to perfection. The wine which accompanied our meal was recommended by Kate; a Shiraz, (Boschendal 1685 Shiraz Coastal region 2008 - £18.50) a perfect choice. After polishing off our plates we couldn’t resist the desserts, so we loosened the belt buckles and dived in. I had the Chocolate Frangipane (£4.95) served warm with Chantilly cream and a handful of strawberries and just had to finish the whole thing. There was no way I could leave any of the homemade chocolate heaven. Mum went for Vanilla Panacotta (£4.95) with strawberry coulis which tasted like summer in a bowl. The perfect end to a perfect meal. This place has definitely Reformed Victoria Street! GB

| 7 FALKNER STREET, LIVERPOOL | 0151 707 1965 | WWW.THEQUARTERUK.COM | Breakfast, it is said, is the most important meal of your whole day. You should take time to relish each and every bite of the delicious feast you have lovingly created yourself – from the frothy goodness of your Columbian ground coffee, to the sizzle of the sausages under the grill... Snap back to reality, and it’s 8.55am, your hair’s still wet, you’ve lost your car keys and your dog’s eaten your shoe. Breakfast? What breakfast? At best maybe a bacon roll from Costas – at worst... dry cornflakes anyone? That’s why, come the weekend, we deserve something a bit better. A little bit of breakfast TLC to fire us up for our weekend and put the sparkle back in our morning. Enter The Quarter on Falkner Street – already a beloved gem in the Georgian quarter of the city for its consistently great food at consistently great prices, but today I’m shouting about breakfast and by golly did I have a smashing one last Saturday. Breakfast is served from 10am over the weekend, and from 8am throughout the working week for those who favour early

mornings and productive days. The Quarter was already bustling when a bright-eyed and bushy tailed Jenny (and slightly groggy Adam) arrived for a breakfast date. Recently extended and tarted up, The Quarter now houses its own deli too (which is seriously worth a look) and has a more spacious lay out. Its neat breakfast menu is indulgent, inviting and enticing whilst offering options for the health-conscious (Goji berry Granola and yoghurt, for example). However, I’m in need of something a little more substantial and my eyes fall to the salmon and scrambled eggs (ÂŁ5.25) whilst I sip my Americano. Adam on the other hand is ogling the bacon and mushrooms on toast (ÂŁ2.95). The Quarter has those fun Firefly tonic drinks – each one packed with vitamins, minerals and other virtuous stuff. The ‘Wake Up’ drink (ÂŁ2.00) we have is pomegranate, apple, chilli and various other things in one lovely bottle of vitality and vivaciousness and if nothing else is a quirky and interesting change to the usual OJ and coffee.

many to mention. See what I mean? Rather a lot to take in in one day. I would rather people were not misled. Titles such as ‘wine tastings’ or ‘wine appreciation courses’ would suit better. Good professionals will have certification as to their qualifications and background. Before attending an event or signing up to a course, enquire what credentials the leading person holds and their relevant experience. A diploma W.S.E.T(wine and spirit educational trust), Professional diploma/ diploma in sommellerie from a recognised international hotel school or the Court of Master

Sommeliers are all, I feel, very acceptable qualifications. On top of this, good sommeliers will usually have an extensive background in leading hotels or the finest restaurants both here and internatio nally. A good professional will guide a tasting and answer relevant questions without misinformation. This will enable the taster to develop tasting skills and knowledge more quickly. If you have any questions or would like to attend approved courses or just simple tastings then drop me a line.

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Should your dining companion be experiencing the morning after the night before, and conversation is a little nonexistent, there is a wealth of newsy literature to entertain you, if they cannot. My salmon and scrambled eggs were absolutely terrific – buttery, soft scrambled eggs with generous flakes of hot smoked salmon piled on two thick buttered slices of brown farmhouse toast. Gone were nightmares of the previous week’s brekkie disasters, for here was a dream in Omega-3, toasty form. Adam tucked into his bacon, mushrooms and toast with vigour, and with a dollop of Heinz he looked like the cat that got the cream. The service here is affable and thorough, and boy do they work hard. Walk past this place on a sunny afternoon and you’d be lucky to get a table – if you have yet to visit The Quarter then you’re missing a trick. Put the cornflakes away and dial the number above to book your table – now! JM

Pavlos Shakas (Professional sommelier & operations manager)

De Paese Trattoria, 7a Almonds Green West Derby Village 0151 256 1156

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Published by A&C Publishing Ltd, Unit 3, Essex House, Bridle Road, Netherton, L30 4UE. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of each and every publication. However, under no circumstances can the publisher accept liability for any loss or damage, which may arise or result from errors or omissions in any advertisement. All opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of The Liverpool Magazine or its publishers.

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CULTURE FAMILY FUN AT SAPPORO

BODY LANDSCAPES

Artist and supplier of our March issue’s cover, Stephanie de Leng, is back with her Body Landscapes exhibition and debate at Liverpool’s historic Blackburne House after a successful run in 2009. Body Landscapes is a photographic exhibition by Stephanie de Leng featuring real people, revealing the parts of their bodies they dislike the most, some shocking in their blunt reality; the anonymous subjects include an abdomen scar, a female torso after extreme weight loss, rotted teeth and disfigured feet. Each image has been enlarged to four feet at its longest edge and mounted in clear Perspex to enhance the impact. The aim of Body Landscapes is to challenge the flawless, airbrushed images of perfection that are so overtly touted by the fashion industry and the media and bring to the forefront the reality of the potential harm they cause and in so doing confront the insecurities in us all. Stephanie did not tamper with any of the images and used a high definition macro lens to capture her subjects’ dislikes in their truest form. In the interest of fairness, she has also included a body part of herself in the exhibition, which like all the other images, is anonymous. Stephanie explained: “With their abnormally long legs, tiny waists and symmetrical faces sitting upon giraffe like necks, not many of us can ever hope to look like them.

Yet these enhanced images are splashed across every media outlet, proclaiming an impossible ideal to strive for. In many people this can cause a deep-seated unease, or even depression. It is from this realization that my project has been conceived.” Roger Phillips of BBC Radio Merseyside, who will open the exhibition, will also chair the debate: ‘Body Image in the Media and How it Affects Young Adults’ which will be held on Thursday 15 July at 6.30pm at Blackburne House. This event is open to the public and young adults in particular are encouraged to attend. Stephanie added: “Blackburne House is an ideal venue for my Body Landscapes exhibition, the whole history of the building, the work they do for local women is something I really admire. I wanted to challenge the conventional with this work, which is something that Blackburne House continually strive to do for the women they work with.” Body Landscapes will be open to the public from 5 July – 31 August 2010 and will be in the conservatory and main hall at Blackburne House, and also in the Blackburne House Cafe Bar. Visit Stephanie de Leng at www.stephaniedeleng.co.uk Visit Blackburne House at www.blackburnehouse.co.uk

If you’re looking for a family day out that offers the kids a fun-filled afternoon that’s a little different to their usual outing, then you should head to Sapporo Teppanyaki, Duke Street for the next instalment of its popular Family Day on Sunday 4 July. Everyone can enjoy sushi roll demonstrations, face painting, balloon modelling and much more in an afternoon that guarantees to entertain the children from start to finish. That’s not to say that mum and dad are left out – if they take advantage of the special Family Day two-course lunch for just £9 then children under 12 will eat free from their own special menu! Places are limited – the last event sold out in just two days! Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment 0151 705 3005 or visit www.sapporo.co.uk

SUPERSTARS AT LIVERPOOL ARABIC ARTS FESTIVAL

The award winning Liverpool Arabic Arts Festival (LAAF) has announced the performance of Egyptian superstar Mohamed Mounir in partnership with Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on Friday 9 July. It’s hard to understate the impact Mounir has had in his home country where he is feted as the darling of Egyptian youth. His hugely popular and ground-breaking blend of traditional Nubian and African reggae and jazz influenced music are combined with lyrics which often tackle social and political subjects. He is widely considered a living legend in Egypt and regularly performs to crowds of tens of thousands at outdoor venues

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in Cairo. This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to revel in the excitement and drama of ‘The King’ performing in the UK. There’s a double chance to catch Mounir live since LAAF is delighted to announce that he will personally introduce a special screening of Yousef Chahine’s acclaimed film Destiny on Thursday 8 July (Picturehouse at FACT). Once, all the best Nubian weddings resounded to the rango, a vintage wooden xylophone with gourd resonators. But with the rise of DJs playing Arabic pop, the instrument fell into disuse. Rango, the group, are reviving it, under the talents of its last surviving player, Hassan Bergamon and generating wide acclaim on the world

music circuit. Join Rango on Sunday 4 July (the Bluecoat) for what The Independent describes as “polyrhythmic explosions of love, possession and pure joy”. Festival Manager Ngozi Ikoku said: “The programme of music events is a real highlight of this year’s festival and we are tremendously excited to welcome stars of such calibre. Together with our dance, food, film and visual arts activities the LAAF 2010 line up offers everyone a chance to sample the richness and diversity of Arabic culture.” For more information please visit www.arabicartsfestival.co.uk or call 0151 702 5324

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Double Shooters Double Shooters

£1.50

Lucky ladies who have found their Prince Charming need fret no more about Double Spirit and Mixer finding thatFrispecial frock for their big day; (At all times except / Sat after 8pm) the prestigious Knowsley Hall will throw Vodka, Gin, Brandy, Whiskey £4.00 open its doors this Sunday Double Vodka and Energy 3rd October, £4.50 at its designer bridal showcase. Brides-to-be Wines will enjoy a glass of Champagne and a tour of the stunning White,Rose, Redbefore £2.50 catwalk £3.50 £7 £1.75viewing wedding venue previews ofFribeautiful (*At all times except /Sat after 8pm)designer wedding collections and ideas from the finest wedding suppliers in the region. If you’ve Jägermeister yet to tick a lot off your to-do list, then a Shooter £2.50 indulgence Jägerbomb day of wedding at £3.00 Knowsley Hall could set you up for the whole shebang as suppliers of everything from flowers to honeymoons will be there to discuss your options throughout the event. Grooms won’t be left out either, and can try on sharp suits and boots, view classic wedding cars and even try out quad bikes, archery or laser clay pigeon shooting. Early booking is strongly recommended. Tickets are priced at £5 and will admit two people; the event is divided into a morning and afternoon event: 10.00-13.30 or 13.30-17.00. To book please call 0151 489 4827 or visit www.knowsleyhallvenue.com

CLAWS FOR APPLAUSE

The delightful and delectable 60 Hope Street has devised a sparkling summer offer that customers can really get their – ahem – claws into. For a mere £20.10 per person, 60 Hope Street is making decadent dining accessible to all with its Lobster and Fizz offer of a bottle of Prosecco di Valdobbiadene and a whole lobster with freshwater prawns between two. Accompanied by a crisp summer salad and new potatoes, this offer not only epitomises carefree summer dining but does it in true 60 Hope Street style. After your meal, carry on your afternoon of indulgence at the gorgeous 60 Hope Street bistro underneath the main restaurant and relax with a glass of your favourite tipple whilst you while away the long summer hours... To book your lobster and fizz please call 60 Hope Street on 0151 707 6060 or visit www.60hopestreet.com

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Liverpool’s gentrified streets of bohemian cool have been enhanced following the recent arrival of Baa Bar Myrtle Street. Located in a quarter well known for its hip hang outs, preppies, bohos, foodies, the Latte left, students and down right in the know types, Baa Bar has brought an air of Shooter Cocktails fun, games, sweetness and spice to the vicinity. Already a popular, value-led North West brand amongst industry creatives and suited dudes and dudettes, Baa Bar Myrtle Street is now getting recognition from local style sirens and the fashion savvy/fashion progressive community too. Baa Bar itself was the first style-led bar in Liverpool back in 1991 and has been the catalyst for creating the city’s now nationally acclaimed style-led bar circuit. Baa Bar Myrtle Street has continued the tradition with some unique selling points

including a comprehensive beer, wine, cocktail and shooters’ drinks menu that features the ‘Wheel of Misfortune’. Wokit, the new street food kid on the block and brand of fast and very fresh oriental dishes is served all day and night long. Ramen(At(egg noodles) with chicken and all times except Fri / Sat after 8pm) Satay sauce, not forgetting the sweet chilli nuts are a combination worth remembering before you try the shooters. Similar to its friends in nearby Faulkner Street, Baa Bar Myrtle Street offers al fresco eats and drinks in their new beer garden and features a weekly set of entertainment nights ranging from Acoustic and Quiz Nights, Funkymentals and B-Boy, Funk style dancers on Fridays, Soul on Sundays and live sport that will attract World Cup followers in their droves. www.baabar.co.uk

COLEEN KICKS BACK AT CHILL OUT SPA

Star WAG, Coleen Rooney, took time out of her busy schedule to receive some well deserved pre-World Cup pampering in top Knowsley retreat, Chill Out Spa. The prestigious retreat has developed an exclusive package in honour of the World Cup – a full 90 minutes of pure, unadulterated bliss (and not a football in sight!). The sumptuous selection of treatments received no red cards from Mrs Rooney who was having a bit of ‘me time’ before the inevitable busy timetable surrounding the World Cup, where husband Wayne is expected to play a starring role. However, the head-to-toe relaxation package isn’t just for celebs, and Chill Out Spa looks forward to welcoming wives and girlfriends of football fans the region over, as World Cup fever hits the UK. The package – including treatments specifically selected for frazzled females by the spa’s owner and expert, Sharon Carroll – begins with a gentle foot massage to work out the tensions of the day, followed by a full body massage using an oil of your choice. Your therapist will then perform a Purity

Ritual Facial which is designed to suit each skin type, and finish with a Deep Scalp Massage that is guaranteed to send you floating home in a bubble of tranquility, relaxation and pure bliss. Coleen said: “The run up to events such as the World Cup are really exciting, but can get hectic too – that’s why I find it’s so important to take a bit of time out beforehand to relax and recharge my batteries for the coming weeks. “The package at Chill Out Spa was just what I needed – and just when I thought it was all over, my therapist began the deep scalp massage. I left feeling relaxed and revitalised.” The package will be available throughout the course of the World Cup (12 June – 12 July 2010) for a superb £60.00 (normal cost: £90.00). So – whilst the UK goes mad for football this summer, seek out the alternative 90 minute event at Chill Out Spa and indulge yourself with the exclusive World Cup package. For more information about Chill Out Spa please visit www.chilloutspa.co.uk or call the team on 0844 9670 599

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WWW.ECHOARENA.COM

25 July ÂŁ19.50 - ÂŁ37.50*

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2 July ÂŁ32.00 ÂŁ50.00*

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

23-25 September ÂŁ5.00 / ÂŁ10.00

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MOBO Awards 2010 20 October www.mobo.com

Lennon Remembered CO N CE RT

4 November ÂŁ29.50

Diversity

A Question of Sport Live 5 November ÂŁ35.00

9 December ÂŁ19.50 - ÂŁ37.50* 10 December ÂŁ21.50 / ÂŁ29.50

17-19 December ÂŁ20.00

WWE Smackdown CO N CE RT

7 July ÂŁ32.00 - ÂŁ50.00*

8 December ÂŁ35.00

FA M ILY

SP O RT

Crosby, Stills and Nash

Paul Weller

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Selco Mersey Masters Football

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7 December ÂŁ42.50 / ÂŁ60.00

Four Nations Women’s Handball

OMD

3 July + 31 July ÂŁ24.50 / ÂŁ32.50*

The War of The Worlds

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Jackson Browne

26 August ÂŁ5.00 - ÂŁ45.00

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ÂŁ3.00 - ÂŁ5.00

ÂŁ25.54 / ÂŁ31.67

British Basketball

‘Eurobasket’ European Championship Qualifiers CO N CE RT

28 June

2-3 December

Presents

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FA M ILY

27 June (matinee & evening performance)

Schools’ Supersing Liverpool

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JLS

Britain’s Got Talent - Live! £32.50

27 November ÂŁ21.00 - ÂŁ36.00

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26 June ÂŁ36.50

British Supercross Championship

Zappa Plays Zappa

FA M ILY

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ft. The Osmonds, David Essex, Leo Sayer & Les McKeown’s legendary Bay City Rollers

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Once In A Lifetime

The Monsters Are Coming... 2 & 3 November ÂŁ25.00 - ÂŁ38.50

SP O RT

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The Saturdays, N-Dubz, The Hoosiers, Diana Vickers, Gabriela Cilmi, Alesha Dixon + more big name acts to be confirmed! 15 August ÂŁ25.00

| BOX OFFICE: 0844 8000 400

6 November ÂŁ25.00 - ÂŁ50.00

Lord of the Dance

7 November ÂŁ35.00 - ÂŁ75.00

Boyzone

World Netball Series

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21 February 2011 ÂŁ35.50

Peter Kay The Tour That Doesn’t Tour Tour

21-25 April 2011

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BOX OFFICE: 0844 8000 400 WWW.ECHOARENA.COM All ticket purchases are subject to a 'per ticket' booking fee and a handling fee. Tickets are subject to availability. * VIP package available for selected shows. Contact Box Office for details.

T OU LD SO

CO M ED Y

19-21 November ÂŁ5.00 - ÂŁ24.00

SP O RT

21 July ÂŁ60.00 / ÂŁ70.00*

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Rod Stewart

10 November ÂŁ22.50

CO N CE RT

CO N CE RT

16 July ÂŁ21.50 - ÂŁ39.50*

16 February 2011 ÂŁ25.00

CO M ED Y

Right Here, Right Now

Paramore

Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

24-26 January 2011 ÂŁ35.00 - ÂŁ55.00

Russell Howard

CO N CE RT

10 July ÂŁ16.50 - ÂŁ34.50*

Strictly Come Dancing The Live Tour!

The Return of Michael Flatley as FA M ILY

Beatles Day The Concert

FA M ILY

CO N CE RT

9 July ÂŁ24.50 - ÂŁ42.50*

CO M ED Y

Status Quo


MUSIC

MYSTERY ON THE MERSEY I’m standing on the deck of one of those famous Mersey Ferries, looking out over the river as the sun starts to set on a mild summer evening. There’s a rabble gathering downstairs, and before you know it my tranquil moment up on deck has been blown to smithereens with the cranking of an amp and a furious drum beat. For this ain’t no normal ferry ride, readers – no indeed. I’m cruising down the Mersey with London band, the Mystery Jets and about 100 jostling fans who managed to get tickets for this intimate and unique gig – all part of the Chevrolet Unscheduled Tour 2010.

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You may or may not know the Mystery Jets – if you’re the latter, I believe you’d know their tunes at the very least. Hailing from London’s muso-friendly Eels Pie Island (it’s not uncommon to see members of The Rolling Stones strolling by on a daily basis) the quartet of young gents has forged a strong fan base, usually with the student population – but as the Chevrolet gig proved, certainly not exclusively. The band has had several incarnations over the years – Blaine Harrison on drums, Will Rees on guitar and Henry Harrison (Blaine’s father) on bass. This changed several times, nudging the band numbers up to four, and now consists of Blaine (lead vocals and various instruments), Will (guitar and vocals), Kai Fish (bass and various) and Kapil Trivedi (drums – and dancing). Henry is still very much present in the everyday goings on with the band, and sits with us through the interview and after the gig, happily chatting with the group and is clearly as passionate about the band as his son and the other members are. “The Chevrolet tour’s been really fun – it’s been great to come back and say hello to everyone really after a year and a half away from the press circuit” says guitarist, Will: “We’ve just come back from France where we were filming the music video to our new single (Dreaming of Another World)which we’re really excited about, it’s something a bit more elaborate than our usual videos. “We’ve played in a cotton factory, a car park and now a ferry – so it’s been pretty cool.” “It’s less of a tour, and more a series of pop up shows actually – everything seems to be pop up these days,” says Blaine, “we’ve never done anything like this before and it's a nice way to get our new album out there.” The band have been working hard on their third album, Serotonin, due out 5 July, which has already prompted positive reviews over the country with many feeling the band has reached a maturity not seen or heard in the previous two albums. They band are a fascinating bunch – hugely comfortable in their own skin for their age (early to mid-twenties) and have a relaxed and pragmatic view of the rather erratic industry they’re in. This has perhaps stood them in good stead, and allowed them time to fine tune their pop/rock sound to something not quite commercial but certainly radio-friendly; and that’s a compliment!

Kapil explains: “It’s great to be able to come out and kind of stare our fans in the eyes and play them what we’ve been working on – it’s strange when you’re away for a while, sometimes people think you’re not doing anything but we’ve been working harder than ever to get the album just right and now it’s ready to go.” The band’s involvement with the Chevrolet Spark Unscheduled Tour was an interesting one – just as the gigs themselves. Members of the public were asked back in April to vote for where they’d like the tour to go to next, from a selection of cities and unique venues. Cities included Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Brighton, Edinburgh and Bristol – and whoopee for us, we were one of the winning cities! The gig went down a storm, the band played their hearts out and the mix of really beautiful melodic tunes with some great, hefty belting drums and riffs was a joy to watch. These young men are impressive, talented and natural stars. For the past few years the band has bubbled, sometimes positively brimmed right up the surface of stardom, and now with Serotonin under their belt and about to hit the airwaves the band will see their fanbase grow tenfold. I’d describe them as indie with a poker up the backside, but others have informed me they’re classed as ‘alternative’. Whatever genre they fall into, they’re a cracking group with a corker of an album – whether you’re a diehard fan or someone looking to expand your music library. “We’ve actually played Liverpool lots of times,” says Blaine, “it’s one of my favourite places to play – and I’m not just saying that!” As the ferry docks, we’re sad the evening has had to end – what a fantastic and unique way to meet a band, to listen to their music and to sail across the Mersey...as we set off for home we catch Kai walking across deck with an open bottle of Champagne raised. “You guys know of any good places to go in the city?” he asks. Oh – we know plenty, we say. And with that we set off into the night with the band, the champers and dad, Henry, to show the London boys a bit of Liverpudlian hospitality. It’s a tough job. Find out more about the band at www.mysteryjets.com

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INTERVIEW

Comedian, actor, writer and radio afficionado, Marcus Brigstocke, talks to Jenny Morris ahead of his musical debut at the Empire Theatre this August. 8

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com


INTERVIEW Monty Python – quintessentially British or just a wee bit crazy? Whatever you think, there’s no doubt that Spamalot, the musical lifted heavily from the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, has been a storming success both over the pond, and back here in Blighty. The show hits Liverpool in August at the Empire Theatre, and taking to the stage as King Arthur will be comedian, actor, writer and presenter – Marcus Brigstocke. After hitting the big time in 1996 winning the BBC New Comedian of the Year, Marcus’ career has skyrocketed and his regular sell-out stand up shows, Radio 4 slots and TV appearances on shows such as Have I Got News for You, Argumental and Live at the Apollo have well and truly cemented his presence in the UK’s top comic talent. An active and passionate campaigner for environmental awareness, Marcus has travelled to the Arctic with Cape Farewell to see the effects of climate change for himself. Self-deprecating, quick-witted and rather wry, Marcus is the thinking woman’s comic crumpet and couldn’t wait to get started on the show when he spoke to Jenny Morris recently...

theatres you’re very much on your own, doing your own thing . The chance to work with a director and a whole cast of people to find the funniest way of doing something that is already really, really funny is very exciting from my point of view.

Hi Marcus – so, how do you feel about your imminent musical debut? As excited as I could possibly be and as terrified as I could possibly be in exactly the same moment – this is a big departure for me in some respects; I mean obviously the fact that it’s comedy and the fact that it’s on stage and the fact that it’s a show is very normal for me – the fact that it’s a musical is a big deal and I want to get it right. I’ve been having lots of singing lessons – it’s amazing, I mean this is a script written by Monty Python – it doesn’t get much better than this!

You’ve got several strings to your bow – as a writer, comedian, actor, presenter – do you prefer to be directed or is improvisational comedy (such as Argumental on cable channel, Dave) your preferred method? I would say the thing that I’ve enjoyed the most in what I do is the fact that it’s been so varied – the fact that I tour for a bit, then do radio for a bit, then do telly for a bit then tour for a bit – and just mix it up. So yeah, having a script that someone else has written is a real privilege for me because I don’t have to worry about it too much, but then on the other hand you kind of feel like ‘Ooh okay – can I put this in here, can I do this, can I make it funny like that?’ and it’s that kind of collaborative process that is really good fun – especially being on stage with other people trying to work out how to make those relationships funny and good to watch.

Did you find it quite a natural crossover from stand up then – if you were ever going to do a musical, this was it? Definitely, and in terms of being a natural crossover I’ve done a lot of sketch shows and characterbased shows on telly, radio and at the Edinburgh Festival. My comedy acting stuff, I’ve just kept that going – that’s not too big a departure, it’s just I’ve been a touring comic for the last twelve years or something, and once you get to

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Having a script that someone else has written is a real privilege for me.

– do you follow politics personally, or is it purely a source of comic material – or both? The reason I talk about it comedically is because I care about it passionately. It matters to me a great deal what happens and without wishing to be over-sentimental about it, the way in which people take care of other people is something that is very important to me. So yeah, I follow it personally – I mean obviously it provides a lot of good material but I’ve always thought; find a story that you care about, then find out why you care about it – what is it that bothers you or interests you and then find the comedy, rather than ‘this is already funny – ha ha ha isn’t John Prescott a big clumsy, punching oaf?’ Well yes, sometimes he is, but it’s not that aspect of John Prescott that interests me comedically – do you know what I mean? And the same with David Cameron – alright, he’s an Eton posh boy, and Gordon Brown is blind in one eye and has seemingly no charisma at all...those things are inherently amusing but I’m more interested in reading into what they are, what are they representing, where have they come from to get to where they are and what are they going to do. The Monty Python fans are obviously going to flock, as they have been doing, to see Spamalot this August and to see you perform as King Arthur – is a daunting role to fill? I’m not thinking about it from that point of view because I’m not trying to do it like Graham Chapman did, or like Tim Curry when he did the show because this script is 75% lifted from Monty Python’s Holy Grail, so it’s very funny, all the jokes stand up anyway. Yes, they’re scary boots to fill in some respects but on the other hand I think I actually know a fair bit about Python, I certainly know my way around comedy, and my feeling is that if this is really good fun for all of us doing it that the audience will really love it. The thing that Python did brilliantly was to take being silly very seriously, and that’s what I want to do. Marcus will star as King Arthur in Spamalot at The Liverpool Empire from 9-14 August. To book your tickets please contact 0844 847 2525 or visit www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

By the time this interview is printed, we’ll know who’s won the election

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NEWS GIVEN A VOICE

NICOLA HARRIS BEAUTY OPENS B

A speech and language therapist for NHS Liverpool Community Health is helping disabled children in Romania to communicate – by introducing methods currently helping children in Liverpool. Christina McRoe has recently returned from Romania where she worked as a specialist volunteer with organisation L.I.F.E. L.I.F.E runs a project for children with disabilities who have spent their earlier years in orphanages, and Christina’s skills were called upon to evaluate the children’s needs and to develop a suitable communication programme. Christina said: “The children have spent many years in orphanages and although they are now living in family flats, they continue to suffer the effects of being

institutionalised. They do not receive an education, and have very few resources.” Christina set about creating a structured programme of work using ‘Treasure Bags’ – aids that are commonly used in Liverpool but are not so common in Romania. The bags are themed around topics such as Sensory, Colour, Listening and Dressing Up, and incorporate items to promote skills around play and communication. Christina is appealing for people and/or organisations to sponsor a £15 bag, or to provide items that will make up the bags, such as sunglasses, beads and bangles, hats, floaty scarves, hairbands and mirrors. Anyone who might be able to help should call 07913 230396.

CELEBRATION OF COLOUR

City art consultant, Dot-Art, had cause for celebration recently as it announced the launch of its new exhibition space, The Mere Grange Gallery in St Helens. The first exhibition to be held in the gallery is a group show entitled ‘A Celebration of Colour’ and features the work of thirteen artists from across the region. Laura Clarke, curator of ‘A Celebration of Colour’, commented: “I set out to showcase how the talented artists in our region utilise colour in their work in different ways... this

exhibition brings together a collection of artwork that might not normally be seen together in an exhibition setting.” The ‘Celebration of Colour’ exhibition is open to the public by appointment only (including evenings and weekends) until Friday 20 August. The 4000 square foot gallery will host a varied quarterly exhibition program featuring a wide range of artists. For more information please call 0845 017 6660 or email info@dot-art.com

WIN WITH ESTRELLA

To celebrate the arrival of Tate Liverpool’s Picasso exhibition, the Albert Dock has teamed up with the gallery and Spanish beer, Estrella Damm, to provide a summer long fiesta of competition prizes. During Picasso: Peace and Freedom at Tate Liverpool you can enter a draw to win an exclusive weekend in Barcelona simply by entering your details on the postcards situated inside all of the Dock’s bars, restaurants and cafes. Each month, five lucky visitors will win a pair of tickets to see the Picasso exhibition and will eventually see one lucky winner scoop a luxury weekend in Barcelona, courtesy of Estrella

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Damm. To be in with a chance to win this amazing weekend away and jet off to Barcelona, simply head down to the Costa del Dock, for a cool bottle of Estrella Damm in one of the most picturesque locations in the Northwest and fill in one of the competition entry forms that are available in the bars and restaurants at the Albert Dock, no purchase necessary. Entries will only be accepted during this period. For full terms and conditions go to www.albertdock.com

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A

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T

Y

Beauty clinic and treatment spa, Nicola Harris Beauty, recently threw open its doors to welcome its first customers. Nicola Harris Beauty will be the first UK spa to introduce the exclusive Rodial Spa Concept, famous for the ‘A-List Facial’ using the renowned Glamoxy Snake Serum (aka Botox in a bottle). The treatment has a host of celebrity followers – Cheryl Cole, Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Aniston to name a few, and has been voted by beauty editors as this year’s number one ‘must have’ treatment of 2010. Founder, Nicola Harris, said: “We have developed an exceptional service led beauty spa at Nicola Harris Beauty, where every client is made to feel like an A-lister. Trust me you will know when you have tried a facial from Nicola Harris Beauty!” Situated in the heart of Allerton, the elegant Georgian townhouse is home to seven treatment rooms and a relaxing orangery. For more information please call 0151 724 4999 or visit www.nicolaharris.co.uk

LENNON PEACE MONUMENT

A peace monument honouring John Lennon has been commissioned and will be presented to the Beatles Story and city of Liverpool, and unveiled by Julian Lennon. American art sensation, 19 year-old Lauren Voiers is creating a monument to the world icon and his message of peace. Commissioned by California-based organisation Global Peace Initiative, the monument will be presented to the world’s leading permanent Beatles-themed visitor attraction, the Beatles Story in Liverpool, and will be sited in a significant position within the city. This is the second in a series of monuments commissioned by Global Peace Initiative. Their aim is to place a peace monument in each of the world's seven continents and spread artistic symbols of peace across the globe. Liverpool, has been chosen as the European location for this second monument. The monument, entitled ‘Peace and Harmony’ will be unveiled during the John Lennon Tribute Season (9 October – 9 December 2010).

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BBC & Logo TM & C 1996

JODIE PR ENGER

STAR OF OLIVER! AND WINN ER OF TH I’D DO AN E BBC’S YTHING

MARCUS BRIGSTO AWARD-W INNING CKE COMEDIA KNIGHT N FROM & HA VE I GOT

“A glitteringly spectacular show� Mail on Sunday

THE BILL AND EASTE NDERS

9 – 14 August “An amazing spectacle.� Liverpool Daily Post

Liverpool Empire Stage Experience presents

An amateur performance by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd. Music by Steven Margoshes. Lyrics by Jacques Levy. Book by Jose Fernandez. Based on a concept by David DeSilva. Title song by Dean Pitchford and Michael Gore.

21 – 26 June

NEWS NEWS FO R YOU

TODD CA RTY

GRANGE HILL,

“Magical eye popping entertainment� BBC Radio Merseyside 20 – 21 July

Kid concess availabsion le

29 June – 17 July

5 – 7 August

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Joe Longthorne – 14 June

That’ll Be The Day – 19 June

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The Cavern Beatles – 17 June

17 August – 4 September

Jane McDonald – 18 June

One Night Only – 20 June

Strictly Tap Dance Fever – 19 July THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON COMES TO LIVERPOOL!

7 – 18 September

8 – 20 November

Ticketmaster 0844 847 2525* Groups 10+ 0844 372 7272 Sign up for latest info on shows at www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*24hrs, subject to TM fees)

(Mon – Fri, 10am – 6pm)

27 September – 2 October


July '10

It’s officially summer and Liverpool is celebrating with its Summer Pops Festival, featuring a host of diverse acts performing at various venues throughout the city. The event includes ageing rock band Status Quo, who will dust off their guitars for a night of mayhem at the Echo Arena. Golden Oldie Rod Stewart will also be rocking out at the Echo and The Coral are playing at the Philharmonic Hall…

The Australian Pink Floyd Show 3 July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com 0844 8000 400

LISTINGS Liverpool Summer Pops 1 – 31 July Liverpool Echo Arena & Liverpool Philharmonic www.echoarena.com www.liverpoolphil.com 0844 8000 400

Mersey Masters Football

Wirral’s Year of Food 1 – 31 July Chef Shine www.visitwirral.com

Status Quo

9 July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com 0844 8000 400

4 July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com 0844 8000 400

Jools Holland

The Coral

In The Night Garden Live

16 July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com 0844 8000 400

15 July Liverpool Philharmonic www.liverpoolphil.com 0151 709 3789

15 Mersey Pirate Muster

18 July Albert Dock www.albertdock.com 0151 708 7334

The Best of the Fest

22 July Edinburgh Fringe Preview Shows The Slaughterhouse www.capitalofcomedy.com 0151 227 5946

17 July Sefton Park www.nightgardenlive.com 0844 581 1251

Rod Stewart

21 July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com 0844 8000 400

The Rise of Women Artists 1 – 31 July Walker Art 25 Gallery www.liverpool museums.org.uk 0151 478 4199

Motown’s Greatest Hits – How Sweet It Is

Picasso: Peace and Freedom Until 30 August Tate Liverpool www.tate.org.uk 0151 702 7400

25 July Liverpool Empire Theatre www.liverpool empiretheatre.org.uk 0844 847 2525

Port Sunlight Village Festival 25 July Port Sunlight, Wirral www.visitwirral.com 0151 666 3188

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Also in July... Festival madness sweeps the UK this summer, and Latitude is a festival to watch; 16-19 July will see hordes descend on Southwold to enjoy music and madness at this popular event. Toy Story 3 releases in cinemas nationwide this 23 July and fans of flight will enjoy the Windermere Air Show on 25-26 July in the Lake District.

13



FASHION

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FASHION It’s getting hot, hot, hot - and things are certainly brightening up. Get your sunglasses at the ready and head to the beach. Yes, it's finally summertime people. This season is shining with bright colours, we're pairing our corals with our pinks, our turquoises with our prints. Get yourself a cheeky coral bikini, try Pucci’s new collection at emiliopucci.com for some seriously bright inspiration. Some killer clogs and big (we are talking huge) statement jewellery then you’ve cracked it. We're loving the tribal printed bikinis, with fabulously sexy shells, and a multitude of glamorous gold chains. Look at Claudia Pink's range of stunning bikinis and accessories for this season's must haves, at Claudiapink.com. Fancy a change from all those brilliant bright’s why not try some striking stripes? Nautical is still here and its stronger than ever. Red and navy has not looked sexier. Check out new to the U.K designer J.CREW for some nautical numbers. Don’t worry we haven’t forgotten about all you men out there. If you're headed to the beach this summer, grab your board shorts, oh yes we know you love them! We want them bright, gentlemen. We're talking lime green, bright blue, coral and grey stripes. Check out ‘Hugo Boss’ for bright reds and blues. Or if your feeling really hot, get out those classic beach shorts. Who likes short shorts, I hear you ask? We like short shorts! The place to be is ‘Paul Smith’ for those stripy short shorts the girls love! To complete your beach look, why not add a trilby hat and take a look at ‘Patongs.com’ for some simply stylish flip flops. Now you're styled, you're looking fabulous. Get your lotion on and those beach hats at the ready, because ladies and gentlemen it's time to turn up the heat! Photography: Anne Brocklehurst 07793 063047 | Shoot Co-ordinator: Christine Cartwright – Impact Models | Stylist: Samantha Gilbertson – Impact Models | Hair & make up: Kate Smith using MAC and Dermalogica – Impact Models | Models: Rebecca Davies Jones, Serena Sophia & Ollie @ Impact Models. | Photography assistant: Caroline Harkness – Impact Models | Shot on location @ Southport. | Styling assistant: Melissa Kelly | Re-toucher: Jasmin Celjo | Impact Models: www.impactmodelsagency.co.uk Tel: 0151 495 2266 | Stockists: Next - Church Street, Liverpool. Diesel- Met Quarter. Claudia Pink – Met Quarter. Reiss – Stanley Street, Liverpool. Armani Exchange – Met Quarter. Patongs – www.patongs.com. www.rocksforfrocks.co.uk

Black frill bikini, £30 Next | Gold chain body piece, £50 Claudia Pink

Set sail into summer, with bold blue and white stripes.

Coral bikini, £55 Reiss | Necklace, £12 Next | Bangles, £10 each Claudia Pink | Ring £12 Claudia Pink Sandals £12 patongs.com | Hat- stylists own

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Metallic bikini, £30 Next | Bangle £10, Claudia Pink | Green bangles, £15 Claudia Pink

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FASHION

k ac Bl it, su im sw 0 £3 | xt Ne , ce la ck Ne A PO a di au Cl nk Pi

Pink shell bikini, £55 Reiss | Headband, £120, rocksforfrocks.co.uk | Bangles £15, Claudia Pink

Black gold chain bikini £25, Claudia Pink | Ring £30 & Gold necklace, POA Claudia Pink

Black gold chain bikini £25, Claudia Pink | Ring £30 & Gold necklace, POA Claudia Pink | Shorts, £45 Diesel | Hat, £55 Diesel | Sandals, £12 patongs.com | Accessories, £10 Next | Sunglasses models own.

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Navy stripe bikini, £59 Diesel

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LIMELIGHT

Award winning networker Paul Knowles is one of the most invited Sex in the City Liverpool One was transformed recently by hundreds of Sex in the City fans. Specially invited guests watched the new Sex in the City movie whilst drinking cosmopolitans in the gallery bar of the ODEON. The after party was held in the glamorous setting of Palm Sugar Lounge where Kirsty Doyle and Benna hosted their very own SACT fashion show. Chaophraya provided sumptuous Thai tapas and Clarins (John Lewis) gave all guests fantastic goody bags as they sipped the best cosmos in the city. Jenny Wright & Jade Ainsworth

Kirsty Doyle & Rosanna Parsons

Marina & Kenny Dalglish with Lana Heath of April Boutique

Jennifer Duncalf with Christine & Michaela Heath

Michelle Verinder, designer Hanna Marie Hutchison & Lyndsey Verinder

Leanne Campbell (Juice FM) & Louise Davies

Fashion Designer of the Year Competition winner, Emma Cowie

Miss Liverpool Debbie O’ Toole

The Cocktail Masterclass

Models take to the stage to showcase the fab four looks

April Boutique Over 60 VIP guests were entertained at the exclusive launch party of April Boutique, Renshaw street, Liverpool, which was hosted by Leanne Campbell of Juice FM. Greeted on the red carpet by fire eaters, guests enjoyed a champagne reception followed by cocktails and canapés. Whilst being entertained by musician Matt Belcher and a highly charged dance performance by MD Productions, models then sashayed down the boutiques very own catwalk to perform two stunning fashion shows displaying the designer brands available at April Boutique. The Launch party also helped raise money for the Marina Dalglish Appeal with 20% of sales on the night plus proceeds from a raffle going to the appeal.

Cavern Walks Liverpool’s only boutique shopping centre, Cavern Walks has been helping shoppers get the Sex & the City look with an event celebrating fashions from the hit film. The event was attended by Miss Liverpool, Debbie O’ Toole, and a host of shoppers to celebrate the launch of the centre’s new Style Advisor service. Celebrity stylist, Charlotte Harper, who will be available at the centre on the first Saturday of every month for free style consultations, teamed up with centre retailers to treat customers to a live catwalk fashion show dedicated to the film’s four leading characters.

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LIMELIGHT

people in the city and reports on a variety of high profile events. Paul Knowles, paul@pkpr.co.uk

Modo and Impact Models The glitterati set of Liverpool turned out for the Modo "walk off" evening last Friday where Caroline Harkness from Impact Models was voted the best dressed person in the city and won a beautiful diamond necklace from Boodles worth £400. The guests where treated to Veuve Clicquot champagne and a fashion show by Boudoir Boutique of Cavern Walks. Sophie Ellis Bexter hit the decks and Liverpool’s own burlesque performer Millie Dollar wowed the crowd with her risqué performance.

Kirsty Thomas & Caroline Harkness - Impact Models

Louise Ward - Impact Models, wearing Boudoir Boutique

Can Cook Cookery School Over 120 esteemed guests attended a gala dinner at the Bluecoat, Liverpool. Recently pupils from Parklands High School in Speke are the recent winners of Can Cook’s Schools Competition which brought together 16 schools from across Merseyside to battle it out and become the city’s aspiring master chefs. The kids worked together to create an exquisite three course menu of Smoked Haddock and Black Pudding Fish Cakes, Chicken, Mushroom and Leek Pie, and Bakewell Tart with crème angalise all of which they cooked to perfection, putting a smile on everyone’s face.

Robbie Davies from Can Cook with Agent Marketing Directors Paul Corcoran, Jayne Moore and Wayne Malcolm

Mark and Catrina Hewitson, Can Cook Judges with Robbie Davies from Can Cook

Winning Can Cook Chefs from Parklands High School

Lucy Oliver from Your Move Magazine, Jenny Morris from The Liverpool Magazine and Zoe Wallace

Emma Rigby and Laura Ainsworth

Paul Holmes (Boodles) and Selina North (Boodles)

Alex Gerrard arrives in yellow New York Style taxi

Esther McVey (MP for Wirral West) with Kev Seed (Juice FM)

Boodles Party Stylish jewellers Boodles hosted a glitzy party to celebrate the release of Sex and the City 2. The hottest tickets in town went to clients and celebrity guests and those lucky enough to be on the guest list enjoyed a private screening in The Box at FACT cinema, whilst enjoying champagne and signature SATC Cosmopolitan cocktails. Then the lucky ladies were transported back to Boodles, Lord Street, Liverpool for a SATC themed party, where designer store Cricket displayed a selection of Haltston Heritage dresses featured in the movie. Alex Gerrard, Sheree Murphy and Emma Rigby arrived at the Boodles aftershow party in a Yellow New York style taxi, where the bar was stocked with a selection of the Manhattan four’s favourite cocktails.

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!COMEDY OF THE YEAR. EVENING STANDARD STEPPING OUT ON TOUR LTD PRESENTS

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FEATURE

A TRULY

SCRUMPTIOUS

SHOW Written by the creator of James Bond, the classic story of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang couldn’t be further removed from tales of 007’s escapades. The film, released in 1968 was an instant hit – drawing on the wild imagination of its creator and the technology of the day to make a colourful, intricate and exciting story that continues to entertain audiences all over the world. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the highly successful musical, makes its way to Liverpool this summer complete with an all-singing and all-dancing cast, a stage containing a kaleidoscope of colourful inventions and adventures, a scary child catcher and the fantastic flying car. A stupendous show for adults and children alike, Jenny Morris caught up with the show’s star, Darren Bennett who plays Caractacus Potts for a quick chat...

What do you think makes the story of Chitty such an enduring and endearing one? It’s amazing really - when you consider the change in society from the time of the book to present day, and the fact that children who come to see the show are still scared of the figure of the child catcher, and are still amazed at the sight of a flying car. The story’s good, the songs are good – the script is good and the book is great as well, so it’s good enough to hold both adults and children’s attention. It was made in ’68 and I was born in ’67 so it’s been around for as long as I have – and it’s great that it still appeals to so many people today. It’s not technical; it’s a good story and good writing that is now a spectacular show as well with special effects, and continues to captivate an audience.

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How well does Fleming’s story translate to stage? I think actually that this production is the most truthful to be honest - all the songs from the film are in this show which they haven’t been, I think, in the past. Ian Fleming wrote Chitty for his little boy and created this fantastic musical for his son. It’s a heartening piece – good always triumphs over evil even though there are a few hiccups along the way, but that’s how it works. It’s very truthful to the film. The detail that goes into the inventions I create on stage is amazing – the breakfast-making machine for instance is phenomenally intricate. What’s it like playing such an eccentric role as Caractacus Potts? I love him! Being employed to go on stage and behave like the biggest child on stage and create, invent, play and change people’s lives around is wonderful. It’s a breath of fresh air; Adrian Noble who’s the director was up for us bringing what we had as people to the performance too. I’m quite a physical performer as well – I mean, I can stand still if I have to but I like to play about at times, and that is something that I try and bring to the character as well. Of all of Caractacus’ inventions – which is your favourite for pure imagination, and which do you think would be a commercial success in the Dragon’s Den? Ah! The breakfast-making machine – though the Teasmaid has already surpassed that, though the breakfast machine does actually deliver an entire, cooked breakfast! All the inventions are great fun – the musical sweets too for example, but I suppose the car is the most commercially viable option. If I could manufacture and market that car then I’d be a very wealthy man! That’s another thing about the show – you’re sort of spellbound by the car, or want that car in your garage because it’s the ultimate boys toy isn’t it? It’s great fun.

If I could manufacture and market that car I’d be a very wealthy man! Are you actually in the car as it flies off? Yes I am! There’s a sequence where the car floats on water – and yes it does fly off too. It’s amazing watching people in the audience – adults sitting there with tears in their eyes as it takes off, remembering watching the film as a child – there’s a real pang of nostalgia there. A little boy stopped me at the stage door the other day and he said to me “I like the car, but I can see the strings that make it fly!” But there are no strings! It’s wonderful – it captivates the children so much – they sit there and are completely engrossed by it which is wonderful. As a stage actor, you’ve been in some great productions – how does Chitty sit amongst other shows you performed in? It’s full-on – I performed in Singing in the Rain and creating the energy of the original film cast on stage was a hugely taxing task but great fun. The Singing in the Rain sequence is really an actor’s dream come true to recreate that moment that Gene Kelly made so famous. I do get cast I suppose in more physical/comedy orientated roles, that require this kind of boyish or badlybehaved person – I guess that’s my niche, which is a wonderful one to have! I’ve gone from Singing in the Rain into this spectacular, lavish production that I love. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang runs from 29 June until 17 July 2010 at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Book your tickets for this popular show by calling 0844 847 2525 or visit www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

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COMPETITIONS ALTON TOWERS Escape to the Alton Towers Resort and experience the world’s first free fall drop rollercoaster TH13TEEN. The new unbelievable attraction will take visitors on a ride in to the Dark Forest – it’s every ride you’ve ever dreamed off in one. Scream your way into Oblivion, experience the windswept exhilaration of Air and enjoy Nemesis’ famous turbulent, twisting frenzy. Enjoy a mind-blowing mix of fantastic rides and attractions offering unlimited fun for kids of all ages, families and thrill

seekers. Explore the hidden shipwreck of underwater fun, Shark Bait Reef by SEA LIFE located in the Pirate themed area Mutiny Bay, plus the fantabulous fun area Cloud Cuckoo Land, especially for our younger guests. Two lucky readers are in with a chance of winning a family pass. For your chance to win please send answers to win@a-cpublishing.com.

Please note ‘Alton Towers’ in the subject line. Q: What is the name of Alton Towers’ new ride? For best deals and more information visit www.altontowers.com

CAN COOK STUDIO Can Dads cook? Well, if your Dad doesn’t know his saucepan from his steamer, Fathers Day will provide you with the perfect opportunity to put his culinary skills to the test. Introducing Can Cook, Liverpool’s leading cookery school, a fun, interactive way to learn how to cook in a fully state-of-theart cookery studio. Whether your Dad is a budding Gordon Ramsay or Jamie Oliver, Can Cook can tailor a course to suit his abilities.

The Liverpool Magazine and Can Cook Studios are giving you the chance to win an evening cookery course for two for your Dad’s Father’s Day present this year. The new 2010 course timetable is jam packed with a wide range of evening and weekend courses designed for beginners as well as those who can give Jamie Oliver a run for his money. Can Cook’s sessions provide an introduction into cuisines from

around the world (Italian, Indian, Thai and Chinese), introducing learners to the ingredients, recipes and techniques to make authentic dishes.

To find out more about Can Cook and its courses, please contact 0151 650 6444, visit www.cancook.co.uk or text COOK to 60777.

CAMELOT THEME PARK Camelot is a land where knights battle for honour in spectacular jousting tournaments, where dragons fly through the air and wizards perform all manner of sorcery. From spinning roller coasters to spinning tea cups, white knuckle rides to white water rides, Camelot really is magical fun for all the family. Thrill seekers must be fearless for Excalibur 2, strong-willed for a spin on the ‘Whirlwind’ and exceptionally brave

for ‘Knightmare’, 2 terrifying minutes of fiendish twists and knightmarish turns. There’s gentler rides for our younger Bravehearts like the Dragon Flyer or the Tea Cup n Sorcerer, and a visit to Squire Bumpkins Farm is a must where those cheeky goats are always waiting to entertain!! Merlin’s School of Wizardry will have you completely spellbound and intrigued to know more, so join Merlin and his assistant

to learn all his secrets and amaze your friends when you get home.

We have four pairs of family passes up for grabs for four lucky readers! Q: What shape was King Arthur’s table? Email your answer to win@a-cpublishing.com

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE To celebrate the world premiere of In The Night Garden Live, The Liverpool Magazine and the show’s producers are offering five lucky winners a pair of tickets to the show at Liverpool’s Sefton Park. For further information on the tour please go to www.nightgardenlive.com. This is the first time that children and parents will be able to see the iconic In the Night Garden and its much loved characters Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy

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and Makka Pakka in a live event. The characters will be brought to life with fullsize costumes, enchanting music, magical puppets and spectacular panoramic projections. In The NIight Garden Live is produced by BBC Worldwide, Ragdoll and Minor Entertainment.

Q: How many Pontipines are there? Please send your answer to win@a-cpublishing.com

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Autumn 2010 at unitytheatre unitytheatre is celebrating 30 years at its Hope Place home in 2010. In true celebratory style unity will have an exciting, eclectic programme of events to highlight the diversity and brilliance of one of the best-loved theatres in Liverpool. Highlights of the autumn season include:

September - ‘Upside down – Wrong Way Round' A transformation of the building into a visual promenade experience, in conjunction with Hope Street Ltd

October - Gold Mountain A unique collaboration between unity Theatre and Les Deux Mondes, an internationally respected multi-media theatre company based in Montreal, Quebec. Inspired by the story of actor David YipÊs fathers journey from revolutionary China to establishing his family in Liverpool, Gold Mountain will be just one of the theatrical highlights of unityÊs and LiverpoolÊs 2010 Autumn programme.

November - Homotopia unity is proud to welcome back Homotopia, including the legendary Lavender Club, and Memoirs of a Hermaphrodite as part of this wonderful festival.

December - Terry Titter and unity Christmas Show unity will welcome back the legend Terry Titter to provide some festive cheer for all Christmas humbugs out there. Unity will also be adapting in their own innovative style a Hans Christian Anderson classic tale.

Keep up to date by signing up for the newsletter at

www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk or join our Facebook page at facebook.com/30yearsofunitytheatre for offers, sneak previews and insights into our Autumn season.

1 Hope Place Liverpool, L1 9BG Ticket Office: 0151 709 4988 or 0844 873 2888 email tickets@unitytheatre.co.uk A private company limited by guarantee Number 3333987 Registered Charity Number 1062463


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FOOD & DRINK

This issue we’ve mixed it up with a tasty trio of restaurants across the city centre. We enjoyed the laid back breakfast charm of The Quarter, the slick city chic of new venue, Reform, and the irrepressible Italian charm of the marvellous Il Forno...

IL FORNO

| 132 DUKE STREET, EAST VILLAGE, LIVERPOOL | 0151 709 4002 | WWW.ILFORNO.CO.UK | When I first moved to Liverpool a decade ago, Duke Street was home to not much more than a half-decent Chinese and a dodgy drum and bass nightclub. These days the street is warm with the glow of a good number of the city’s top eateries – none more so than the flickering flames illuminating the entrance to the upmarket Italian – Il Forno. With the undeniable boom in restaurant numbers in the city, competition is fierce to stay ahead of the game especially with the establishments that graced the streets before the glory days of 2008. So – has this muchrevered and nationally applauded Italian lost any of its suave, slick Italiano charm over the years? Has it heck. We were ravenous as we scoured the menu – you can go all out here, indulging in the traditional four to five courses the Italians favour, or pop down for a glass of wine and a pizza fired in the flaming mouth of the restaurant’s focal point; the pizza oven found in the depths of an imposing statue’s mouth. Or – if you’re a dessert queen like me – park yourself outside with a double espresso and scoff bowl upon bowl of ice cream...today I was dining a la carte however, so my gelato-

UNCORKED

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fest would have to wait. My Bresaola (thinly sliced cured beef) with rocket and parmesan (£7.95) was deliciously more-ish, not too heavily flavoured but with a richer taste than Parma ham, and contrasted nicely with the crunchy, peppery freshness of the rocket (drizzled with a balsamic dressing and lemon juice) and the recognisable tang of parmesan. Adam’s gamberoni (king prawns - £8.95) were plump, juicy and perfectly cooked. The accompanying sauce of garlic, olive oil, chilli, cherry tomatoes and croutons was salivatingly sweet whilst allowing the flavour of the prawns to continue to shine. The dish that caught my eye on the mains didn’t disappoint – a duo of steamed sea bass and salmon (£17.25) with asparagus, cherry tomatoes and a delicious, buttery crushed new potato centre was divine. The fish had been cooked in such a way that both encased the potato, a cross section of the meal displaying a layer of opaque, white sea bass, then juicy pink salmon and potato. This was so, so good – one of the better fish dishes I’ve enjoyed in the city, not just because of the novelty of two fishies merged together, but because the execution of the

dish was wonderful and the flavour sublime. Over the table, Adam was gleefully tucking into a glistening veal shank (£16.95), braised with rosemary, carrot, orange zest – this traditional Italian dish, ossobuco, was served with a risotto Milanese (a deliciously simple risotto combining white wine, parmesan, saffron and onion) and had excellent depth of flavour. Presentation of both was fantastic and devised with care, flair and expertise – bellissimo! Throughout the meal we sipped on wines from the extensive menu and were pleased to see an impressive list of wines by the glass. I enjoyed the Gavi di Gavi, La Mesma at £6.50 whilst Adam went for a gorgeous smooth red – the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo at £6 per glass. Dessert - Adam went for Tiramisu (£5.45), predictable beast that he is – but blooming lovely it was, too. My Coppa Amarena was something else altogether – a soft, towering bowl of vanilla ice cream punctuated with layers of amaretti biscuits that had been soaked in port, then drizzled with amarena cherry sauce and black cherries. Il Forno - I think I love you. JM

LEARN TO TASTE LIKE A PRO

method 20 years ago. What concerns me is that there are so many people trying to make a quick quid out of a subject that should be a pleasure to do. The sharing of information is invaluable so long as the person(s) holding such events have the required knowledge. Tasting wine aids palate development, but sensory analysis involves the comprehension of the polyphenolic compounds, acidity, alcohol levels and ketones, not to mention carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption levels in sparkling wines and many other factors such as barrel and bottle ageing which are too

Thanks to you all for taking the time out to read this column. Well, if you’re reading this edition you’re reading right. Pavlos Shakas at the controls of what should have been a column about South African wines! But the late change to the proposed column is because of a recent advert that was brought to my attention by a customer of mine. It was titled something along the lines of – ‘Learn to taste wine professionally in the blink of an eye!’ - I wish I’d known about this

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FOOD & DRINK

REFORM

| 25 VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL | 0151 258 1800 | WWW.REFORM-LIVERPOOL.CO.UK | If there was ever a place that made you feel more like a celebrity, Reform is it. Located on Victoria St. – the old Casa Bella – this new restaurant has certainly pulled out all the stops. Walking up to the entrance, we were greeted by a red rope and a ‘red carpet’ floor, definitely VIP worthy. Once in the beautiful restaurant we were sat at a private booth complete with leather sofa seats and flat screen TV’s. Kate, our lovely waitress brought us some bread and olives (£2.95) whilst we perused the menu. The homemade warm Tuscan bread is hands down, the tastiest bread I’ve ever eaten; cake-like in texture, it was hard not to gobble the lot. Assistant manager, James, agreed saying he couldn’t resist. Luckily, Mum and I were able to pace ourselves for the delights that were to come our way. I opted for the Tempura of King prawns (£7.50) to start

and mum had the soup of the day (£4.95) which was carrot and coriander. My prawns were perfectly cooked in a batter so light you’d forget they were fried. They were accompanied by a sweet chilli sauce which I am officially renaming ‘Reform’s famous sweet chilli,’ perfect after several attempts at getting it right according to James, superb (and nothing like the bottled stuff.) Mum said her soup was the perfect consistency and just the right amount. On to the next course and carrying on the fish theme I went for Sea Bass (£17.50) with chunky chips (£2.95) and a side salad (£1.95.) two delicate fillets of perfectly cooked sea bass sat upon a bed of Mediterranean vegetables in a chilli, lime and parsley sauce. It was beautiful. Being a big fish fan, this was definitely up there with the best. Ever so delicate mummy dearest went for the manliest of meals, 8oz

British fillet steak (£21.95) which came with 2 mushrooms and tomatoes on the vine, again with sides of chunky chips (£2.95) and salad (£2.95.) She hailed it as perfectly rare with no fat whatsoever, seasoned to perfection. The wine which accompanied our meal was recommended by Kate; a Shiraz, (Boschendal 1685 Shiraz Coastal region 2008 - £18.50) a perfect choice. After polishing off our plates we couldn’t resist the desserts, so we loosened the belt buckles and dived in. I had the Chocolate Frangipane (£4.95) served warm with Chantilly cream and a handful of strawberries and just had to finish the whole thing. There was no way I could leave any of the homemade chocolate heaven. Mum went for Vanilla Panacotta (£4.95) with strawberry coulis which tasted like summer in a bowl. The perfect end to a perfect meal. This place has definitely Reformed Victoria Street! GB

THE QUARTER

| 7 FALKNER STREET, LIVERPOOL | 0151 707 1965 | WWW.THEQUARTERUK.COM | Breakfast, it is said, is the most important meal of your whole day. You should take time to relish each and every bite of the delicious feast you have lovingly created yourself – from the frothy goodness of your Columbian ground coffee, to the sizzle of the sausages under the grill... Snap back to reality, and it’s 8.55am, your hair’s still wet, you’ve lost your car keys and your dog’s eaten your shoe. Breakfast? What breakfast? At best maybe a bacon roll from Costas – at worst... dry cornflakes anyone? That’s why, come the weekend, we deserve something a bit better. A little bit of breakfast TLC to fire us up for our weekend and put the sparkle back in our morning. Enter The Quarter on Falkner Street – already a beloved gem in the Georgian quarter of the city for its consistently great food at consistently great prices, but today I’m shouting about breakfast and by golly did I have a smashing one last Saturday. Breakfast is served from 10am over the weekend, and from 8am throughout the working week for those who favour early

mornings and productive days. The Quarter was already bustling when a bright-eyed and bushy tailed Jenny (and slightly groggy Adam) arrived for a breakfast date. Recently extended and tarted up, The Quarter now houses its own deli too (which is seriously worth a look) and has a more spacious lay out. Its neat breakfast menu is indulgent, inviting and enticing whilst offering options for the health-conscious (Goji berry Granola and yoghurt, for example). However, I’m in need of something a little more substantial and my eyes fall to the salmon and scrambled eggs (£5.25) whilst I sip my Americano. Adam on the other hand is ogling the bacon and mushrooms on toast (£2.95). The Quarter has those fun Firefly tonic drinks – each one packed with vitamins, minerals and other virtuous stuff. The ‘Wake Up’ drink (£2.00) we have is pomegranate, apple, chilli and various other things in one lovely bottle of vitality and vivaciousness and if nothing else is a quirky and interesting change to the usual OJ and coffee.

Should your dining companion be experiencing the morning after the night before, and conversation is a little nonexistent, there is a wealth of newsy literature to entertain you, if they cannot. My salmon and scrambled eggs were absolutely terrific – buttery, soft scrambled eggs with generous flakes of hot smoked salmon piled on two thick buttered slices of brown farmhouse toast. Gone were nightmares of the previous week’s brekkie disasters, for here was a dream in Omega-3, toasty form. Adam tucked into his bacon, mushrooms and toast with vigour, and with a dollop of Heinz he looked like the cat that got the cream. The service here is affable and thorough, and boy do they work hard. Walk past this place on a sunny afternoon and you’d be lucky to get a table – if you have yet to visit The Quarter then you’re missing a trick. Put the cornflakes away and dial the number above to book your table – now! JM

many to mention. See what I mean? Rather a lot to take in in one day. I would rather people were not misled. Titles such as ‘wine tastings’ or ‘wine appreciation courses’ would suit better. Good professionals will have certification as to their qualifications and background. Before attending an event or signing up to a course, enquire what credentials the leading person holds and their relevant experience. A diploma W.S.E.T(wine and spirit educational trust), Professional diploma/ diploma in sommellerie from a recognised international hotel school or the Court of Master

Sommeliers are all, I feel, very acceptable qualifications. On top of this, good sommeliers will usually have an extensive background in leading hotels or the finest restaurants both here and internatio nally. A good professional will guide a tasting and answer relevant questions without misinformation. This will enable the taster to develop tasting skills and knowledge more quickly. If you have any questions or would like to attend approved courses or just simple tastings then drop me a line.

Pavlos Shakas

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

(Professional sommelier & operations manager)

De Paese Trattoria, 7a Almonds Green West Derby Village 0151 256 1156

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Pablo's R e s t a u r a n t Bar and Grill Special Pablo's Lark Lane would like to welcome you to try our new delicious steak and grill menu.

A complimentary liquor after your meal when you order two courses

Special June and July offer £14.95 per person

Starter Samples Marinated Beef Skewer on Spicy Coleslaw £5.95 Chargrilled Baby Squid Tubes filled with Feta Cheese £4.95 Chargrilled King Prawns Skewer with Hot Chilli Sauce £6.95

Fish Sample Whole Trout baked in Lemon & Garlic Butter served with Green Salad and Seared New Potatoes £12.95

Main Course Samples Surf & Turf 7oz Fillet Steak with Marinated King Prawns, Chimichurri Sauce, Triple Cooked Chips and Fresh Salad £21.95 Pablo's Mixed Grill, 5oz Sirloin Steak, Lamb Chop, Half Chorizo Sausage, Gammon Steak and Grilled Tomato with a choice of sauce, served with Rustic Chips and Green Salad £16.95

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The friendliest Hotel in Southport Ideally situated in the heart of Southport, this traditional hotel offers the highest standards of accommodation, cuisine and service, with special offers available throughout the year. Bedrooms include four poster jacuzzi rooms, for that special treat! Large and small function rooms are available for conferences, meetings, parties and weddings, with our co-ordinators on hand to offer help and advise from start to finish to make your event one to remember! The Hotel is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies. Regular Theme and Tribute evenings are available throughout the year, including a meal and entertainment. The Scarisbrick Hotel Health and Fitness Club – Fitness the fun and friendly way! The centre includes a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, solarium, fully equipped gym. Our trainers are available to help work out personal fitness programmes and advise on achieving goals. Monthly offers are available, so call in now for a look around! The hotel has several public bars and restaurants, including real ale, Tom Cruise style cocktails, chargrilled menu's and Sunday Carvery.

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FEATURE

UP! BOTTOMS

The sun is out, we’ve bought our factor 30 and fired up the barbeque in anticipation of a scorching British summer. Whether it rains or shines, summer is the social season and we shift from our comforting, rich reds and fiery whiskies to drinks with a bit of zip and zing. The Liverpool Magazine has quizzed some of the city’s top cocktail shakers, sommeliers and restaurant proprietors to suss out what should be on your summer drinks menu this year – whether you’re kicking back at a BBQ or hosting a glam garden party, we have all the answers. Compiled by Jenny Morris

Pavlos Shakas, Professional Sommelier, De Paese 0151 256 1156

Champagne Ruinart Blanc de blancs.

Produced from 100% chardonnay grapes, it has elegant reflections in the glass and a beautiful golden colour. The crown of mousse continues to the end of the glass. It expels green citrus notes and pear drop flavours onto the palate and is perfect served at 8 celcius with any prawn dish or on its own.

Mike Lopez, Restaurant Manager at HOST 0151 708 5831

HOSTini.

Our HOSTini is a mouth-watering summery cocktail made with Mandarin Vodka, freshly squeezed carrot and lemon juice and a dash of gum syrup to sweeten. It’s one of my personal favourites because it’s easy to make, absolutely delicious and so refreshing on a warm summer evening. It’s the perfect tipple to tempt your friends with.

James Bennet, The Quarter 0151 707 1956

A good bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon.

As far as I’m concerned you can’t beat a good bottle of red on a summer evening. Perfect for after work drinks, a weekend BBQ or a summer dinner with friends, Cabernet Sauvignon is rich and easy to drink. A favourite at The Quarter is our Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon from the Panilonco Colchagua Valley. Medium bodied with hints of rich blackberry and cedar, this one goes down a treat on our patio.

32

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com


FEATURE

Colin Manning, 60 Hope Street 0151 707 6060

A refreshing English sparkling white wine.

My favourite way to spend a summer evening is with good friends, good food and a good bottle of wine. A lot of people don’t realise what an incredible selection of wineries we have in England and Nyetimber Winery in West Sussex do a delicious, award winning sparkling white that we serve at 60 Hope Street. Their Premier Cuvée is beautiful on its own or with fresh summer strawberries - and even better with a sunset.

Sasha Alfonso, Chaophraya and Palm Sugar Lounge 0151 707 6654

Twisted Sunset cocktail.

Twisted Sunset is my top summer tipple as it's bursting with refreshing summer flavours that are made to make your mouth water! An infusion of melon, orange, pineapple and SoCo; Twisted Sunset is a taste of the Caribbean right here at Palm Sugar Lounge.

Jonathan Corser, Bar Four and Hari's Bar at Hard Days Night 0151 236 1964

Strawberry Union cocktail.

It is a delicious combination of quality ingredients but more importantly, it looks great, it tastes great and the garnish is a great finishing touch. Champagnes and sparkling wines increase in popularity as the weather gets warmer. With this in mind we decided to use, strawberries, a rich luxury dark chocolate liqueur and amaretto. When mixed correctly the ingredients balance and complement each other to create a refreshing and delicious summer cocktail.

Joanne Elkin, Blue Bar and Grill 0151 702 5831

The delicious pomegranate cosmopolitan.

A crisp and bright summer alternative to martinis, such as the Cosmopolitan. The light acidity of the citron vodka meld with the contrasting dry vibrancy of both the fresh pomegranate puree and zesty Cointreau are shaken and chilled over ice to create the perfect summer beverage.

George Tudor-Williams, Gusto 0151 708 6969

The Sparkling Raspberry Mojito.

Add a sparkle to your summer with the Sparkling Raspberry mojito. Fresh raspberries pressed with mint, sugar and Santa Teresa Claro Rum. Finally, charge with Champagne to bring the flavours to life. The perfect start to a summer evening…

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

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ART

WHERE

ART MEETS

NATURE

The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) show, taking place in Tatton Park, will be home to an exciting collision of artistic vision and garden manipulation as conceptual artist Tony Heywood makes his RHS debut at the prestigious high summer event. Words by Georgina Berry

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK's leading gardening charity dedicated to advancing horticulture and promoting good gardening. The RHS has a long and interesting history dating back to 1804 when the charity was founded. Sir Joseph Banks and John Wedgwood created The Horticultural Society of London (later to become Royal Horticultural Society) as a way to collect information about plants and to encourage horticultural practice. Those aims are still at the forefront of the charity along with goals to help people share a passion for plants and to inspire those with an interest in gardening. So it comes as no surprise that the RHS have collaborated with artists to give the flower show a modern twist. Acclaimed as being at the forefront of the UK’s conceptual garden scene, Tony Heywood will encapsulate the essence of his favourite landscapes in the UK by creating revelatory replica worlds within the confines of self-contained steel chambers. Tony was approached by the RHS and so decided to personalise the experience. Speaking to The Liverpool Magazine, Tony says: “I started to introduce more personal elements into the garden, almost semiautobiographical, so that got me thinking of making gardens or landscapes that were specific to people or myself, rather than for any other reason. The piece at the RHS Tatton is based around my personal

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

Bejewelled and highly ornate, it is intended to dazzle. experience at three of my favourite landscapes in the UK.” Tony visited Tintagel in Cornwall, The Jurassic Coast in Dorset and Formby Beach in Merseyside, the latter having a special place in his heart, telling us “I was born and brought up in Freshfield in Formby – so that’s my link there.” After filming his visits to the three areas, Heywood intensified his experiences through a shamanistic practice known as

‘meditative journeying.’ He said, “I was quite interested in the way that plants and rocks would be spaced outside properties. They would have symbolic meaning and people would move between them and they would become almost like the old Victorian flower folklore, which meant that when you gave somebody a bunch of flowers it would be encoded with meaning. So that got me thinking about gardens like that, and how you can become involved in a space. My partner sent me on a weekend course which I have then been following up on, which involved meditation which was more like Shamanic meditation. You go and sit in a space and through use of drumming you sit quietly and you go off into this sort of inner journey. That is what I have done in all these three places - as soon as I got into that meditative state for half an hour, I came out and made notes. What you’re looking at is a combination of things I have made from my notes and things I have filmed. I filmed the entire area that I walked through and then I play that back when I get back to my studio and then from that experience I create the garden. So it’s a kind of combination of me engaging with my meditative journey and the film used, it is like an aide memoire really.” After his time spent on his meditative journey, Heywood then returned to his studio to relive his experience of the UK landscapes by wearing virtual stimulation eyewear. “It’s really quite almost a primordial deep form of meditation because when I play the film back, in order to make it more immersive, I use simulation flight wear – you can put it on and almost wrap it around your head like a complete helmet and play the thing back – and I can’t see anything other than the film that I’ve made.” After watching his films back, Tony got to work and came up with what amounts to a graphic expression of the film onto the walls and floors of each steel chamber. This initial artwork then provided the template from which he went on to construct a real abstract landscape. Bejewelled and highly ornate, it is intended to dazzle as well as to present an almost hallucinogenic experience reflecting the visionary, alternative reality he experienced during his meditative journey. The time and effort put into the piece by Heywood makes it an unmissable show, where art meets nature. A truly spectacular, one-off collaboration that is not to be missed. Tickets to the RHS Show at Tatton Park 2010 are now on sale. Advance booking is recommended for those determined not to miss these unique exhibits. To book call 0844 209 0357 or visit www.rhs.org.uk/tatton

35


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INTERIORS

SLEEK C’EST CHIC Who said interior design was for girls? Or kitchens for that matter... This season the kitchen gets a 1

makeover. The hub of the home needs to fit a wealth of criteria – functionality is key, obviously, but we’re in a day and age where you can have a little fun too. Get gadget-friendly and incorporate some cool mod-cons into your kitchen – cappuccino makers, quirky storage options and mood-

enhancing lighting make an impact visually, and are pretty useful too! Clean, masculine lines and a juxtaposition of natural and synthetic materials create texture and interest, whilst gleaming chrome gives a polished, professional look that any gourmet chef would be proud of.

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CDA PC65 | American Black Gloss Fridge Freezer with Ice Maker 6

CDA BVB4 | Integrated Draught Beer Dispenser. Takes 10/30/50 Litre Kegs 7

CDA CVC10 | Fully Automatic Coffee Maker 8

Kitchen Stori | Ferrara & Ginger Inox Spring-loaded 'Letterbox' Door Handle 9

Kitchen Stori | Anthracite Stained Clonmel Units 10

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HEALTH

I’M ALL

THAI-ED

UP We all love a good takeaway but with British obesity levels higher than ever we at The Liverpool Magazine have been looking for a way to have our curry and eat it too – minus the spare tyre!

Enter stage left Can Cook Studio. Based in the Matchworks in Speke, the studio houses a 20-place professional cookery school where highly skilled chefs take you through the ins and outs of each dish before giving you the chance to get cooking yourselves. The studio itself is an incredible sight. A state of the art cookery school with everything from a fully fitted demonstration kitchen, where you can sit with a cuppa and watch the Can Cook chefs take you through the step by step cookery method for each recipe, to the cookery stations, complete with everything you need to become Masterchef in no time. After you’ve finished cooking there’s even a fantastic dining area where you can enjoy what you’ve created with a nice glass of well deserved wine. Can Cook Studio was set up by Robbie Davison earlier this year to provide cookery courses for anyone that has an interest in cookery or food. You certainly don’t need to be a professional chef as each course is tailored to your individual needs and Can Cook’s resident chefs, Tony and Richie, not only demonstrate each course before you get started but are also on hand if you need a bit of help once you start cooking yourself. Robbie Davison, director of Can Cook Studio said: “Can Cook came about due to the sheer amount of people who want to learn how to cook; people are fed up of microwave meals and are beginning to really care about what they eat but they’re not quite sure where to start in the kitchen. “Rather than just follow a recipe book, our

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learners get the chance to be taught by expert chefs in a 20 place state-of-the-art environment, plus the sessions are a great way to enjoy yourself in the process and you also get to eat what you create!” Can Cook is passionate about improving the lifestyle and eating habits of the United Kingdom and is getting started with Liverpool’s cooking revolution. With obesity on the rise in the UK and the ready meal generation staying strong, Can Cook decided it was time that people are inspired about food again and they want to get everyone back into the kitchen. Cooking healthy, balanced meals at home is definitely one way to make sure you get your five a day whilst battling the bulge – and enjoying yourself! Cooking healthily certainly doesn’t mean cooking tasteless diet food. Using fresh ingredients and making healthy choices while you’re cooking typically fatty meals can leave you with a dish that is full of flavour and a whole lot better for you than a trip to your local takeaway. We went along to experience Can Cook’s Thai cookery course where we learned how to create an incredible Thai green curry

People are fed up of microwave meals and really care about what they eat.

served with coconut jasmine rice and naan bread. We were greeted by Robbie himself who invited us to tuck into some fresh juices and homemade lemon tart before we got started – scrumptious! We were then led over to the cookery demonstration area where chef Tony taught us how to make the curry step by step, even sharing a few of his top tips in kitchen. Did you know that you should keep raw ginger in the freezer to make it easier to grate, how to make the perfect coconut rice or how to make authentic naan bread with a camping stove and an upside down wok? Tony is absolutely lovely and a fantastic teacher, speaking to us about each ingredient and how to use it best as well as showing us exactly how to chop, dice, crush and grate perfectly. Moving over to our cooking stations really showed us how much fun cooking is as we repeated the steps that Tony had taught us earlier, albeit with the odd mistake. Luckily, Chef Richie was on hand to help us save our coconut rice! As we made the finishing touches to our dinner Robbie made his way over to our stations with a chilled glass of white and we all moved over to the dining area to sit back, eat up and enjoy. We were bowled over by how much fun we had learning how to cook and were all gagging to get back to our friends and families to show off our new skills. Come Dine With Me anyone? Can Cook Studio teaches skills that you can take away with you to try out in your kitchen at home as well as passing them on to your friends and family. Leaving the studio, every new Gordon or Nigella is given a goodie bag including the Can Cook Studio cookbook and apron to get them started at home. I can see why the people at Can Cook are so passionate about kicking off Liverpool’s cookery revolution and I for one will be joining the fight for better food! To book your place on one of the many Can Cook courses, please call 0151 650 6444, email lucy@cancook.co.uk or visit www.cancook.co.uk

41



GLOW FROM WITHIN

FEATURE

Summer 2010 isn’t looking too shabby at the moment, and with the promise of warmer weather it’s time to give your skincare regime an overhaul. Less is most definitely more in the summer months, so how do you ensure that your skin is in tip top condition to achieve that naturally glowing look? Beauty expert and owner of the prestigious Chill Out Spa in Knowsley Park, Sharon Carroll, has spent years providing outstanding treatments and trying and testing the most innovative and exciting products on the market. Chill Out Spa is nestled in the extensive green grounds of the magnificent Knowsley Hall, a matter of minutes from the centre of Liverpool but a whole world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Sharon gives her advice on how to prepare your skin for summer – follow her tips and you’ll be a glowing beacon of summery health and vitality in no time.

EXFOLIATE

"Exfoliation removes dead skin cells leaving our skin feeling smoother and giving it a healthy glow. Exfoliating before a summer holiday will help us get a deeper, longer lasting tan as well” says Sharon. “Our Thalgo Cleansing/Detox ritual and Hot Stone Ritual all involve deep exfoliation. We should exfoliate full body and face at least once a week - over exfoliating can cause sensitivity however so be aware of your skin type.”

HYDRATE

BOLD SUMMER POLISH

Sharon says: “Coral and fuschia pinks are always a popular holiday choice – they are fun, bright and really complement sunkissed skin.”

“It’s important to moisturise well in both summer and winter months – our skin does not produce water to hydrate us, so that is why we moisturise it. Monthly facials and body treatments will boost our moisture levels, and are something to look forward to each month too!”

Always wear a high SPF in the sun and keep your face shaded as much as possible.

SAFE SUMMER GLOW

SAFETY IN THE SUN

“You’re in safe hands getting your tan at Chill Out Spa. We prepare the skin beforehand and we can get to those hard to reach areas to ensure a lovely even tan. We all know the dangers of sunbeds and over-exposure to sun, so fake tans are the safest way” advises Sharon. “St Tropez tan is a natural tan which reacts with the menolin in your skin so you will never get that ‘tangoed’ look – just a lovely sunkissed glow.”

FANCY FEET

“Exfoliate your feet and use a pumice stone on those unattractive cracked heels! Apply a thick moisturiser and before applying polish gently push back the cuticles. But the best advice for really lovely feet is treating yourself to a luxury

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

pedicure and let the therapist do all the hard work. After months of stifling socks and shoes, now is the time to get those feet on show!”

“Skin noticeably ages with over-exposure to the sun’s harmful rays – you must make sure you ALWAYS wear a high SPF in the sun (20+) and try to keep your face shaded as much as possible. Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and always apply an aftersun when indoors.” Sharon adds: “If you’ve overdone it and have sunburn then I recommend a Plasmalg Gel Thalgo Wrap treatment which is fantastic for sunburnt skin – your skin will be soothed and softened after this amazing treatment.” Find out more about Chill Out Spa: www.chilloutspa.co.uk or book any of the above treatments by calling 0844 9670 599 and talking to a member of the team.

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BUSINESS Ever had the feeling that you could do something a hell of a lot better yourself? We’ve all been there – those frustrating jobs working for companies that seem to have a skewed view on harmony and success in the workplace. It’s no wonder then that many UK residents seriously consider starting up their own business. Ah, the good life – put your feet up, delegate and watch your pot of money flourish whilst your minions toil away. Except it’s not quite like that in reality – if you start up your own business you are expected to lead from the front and – especially in the first few years – should expect to put in more hours than you’ve ever worked, for a fraction of your regular salary. Still interested? Read on for our bite-size tips on how to get going. UNDERSTAND THE IMPLICATIONS Be ready to work long hours – in the early stages of running your own business, it can be an all-consuming venture. Coping well with pressure is a must as the final call in most business decisions will rest with you – it’s a high pressure position to be in, but it can be one of the most rewarding aspects of being your own boss too. As an owner-manager you must be ready to deal with every single area of your business – from sales and marketing to finance and HR, regardless of your previous experience. It’s an exciting time, the flipside to being your own boss however, is that you’ll probably be your own receptionist, admin assistant and book keeper too!

ASSESS YOUR SKILLS AND PLUS POINTS It should go without saying that you should already have, or have plans in place to acquire, the sector-specific skills your business will require. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the requirements of the business sector you’ll be working in – whether that’s getting training or hiring an experienced employee. You have to be ready to fire on all cylinders, all the time – and relying on your own self-assurance when it comes to decision making, as there will be no-one guiding you this time. As your business expands you will need to be able to share the load and delegate tasks to others, working well with suppliers, customers, and of course your growing employee base. People who start their own business

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benefit from being resilient, patient and realistic. Make sure you are prepared for the fact that, unfortunately, you are unlikely to become a millionaire overnight!

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A SUPPORT NETWORK Family and friends can be a valuable support network for someone starting out in business – keep them up to date with how things are progressing. Don’t be hesitant when asking them for advice as they will be an important source of support – especially if they have experience of running a business or know the sector you’ll be operating in. There’s a wide range of business support available that can ease the process of starting out in business – from professional advisors from organisations such as Business Link and Enterprise Agencies.

GET YOUR FINANCES RIGHT This is a big one. Carefully assess the financial implications of starting your own business – do you have the money you’ll need to get going until revenues start to grow? If not – where will you get it? Do you have the financial flexibility to cope with possible fluctuations in your income? If your business plans place others at financial risk, make sure they fully understand the risks, and accept them. Which is more important to you – safeguarding your financial security or seeing your business grow? Make sure your strategy for your business reflects your financial priorities.

WEIGH UP ANY DOUBTS Don’t worry about fearing failure – worrying that your business won’t succeed is perfectly natural, and is a sensible thing to consider. However, if it starts to impact on the quality of your work and your self-confidence then

Family and friends can be a valuable support network. maybe starting your own business may not be the most rewarding avenue for you to take. It is important to acknowledge any areas of weakness you may have identified, and see how you can overcome them. There’s plenty of support available – family, friends, banks and businesssupport organisations.

AND REMEMBER... Few people know everything about running a business before they start – learn as you go and stay focused. Most things you can pick up as you go along; though you should be ready for a steep learning curve and an invaluable experience! Take advice and learn from others whenever you can and enjoy it.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS: Business Link: Government information for people in business. 0845 600 9006. The Prince’s Trust: Helps people (who lack opportunity) aged 14-30 to get into business through low-interest loans, grants, courses and mentors. Also offers a range of programmes to build skills, job prospects and community involvement. www.princes-trust.org.uk 01282 714 161 HMRC: Starting Up: Designed to explain all the tax implications of starting a new business. 0845 915 4515. Blackburne House: Liverpool’s own enterprise centre, primarily supporting female entrepreneurs in the city. 0151 709 4356.

45


Tuesday 6th July - 7.00pm

Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Compere: Roger Phillips (BBC Radio Merseyside)

Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College supported by Partner Primary Schools Blessed Sacrament Catholic Junior School Holy Cross Catholic Primary School Holy Name Catholic Primary School Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Primary School St Francis de Sales Catholic Junior School St John’s Catholic Primary School The Trinity Catholic Primary School Faith Primary School Headteacher: Mr P Dickinson Director of Music: Mr B Hicks

Box Office: 0151 709 3789 t: 0151 525 6326 e: b.hicks@archbishopbeck.liverpool.sch.uk www.archbishopbeck.com Cedar Road, Liverpool, L9 9AF


FEATURE

CHILD’S

PLAY It’s a magical place that exists between waking and sleeping in a child’s imagination, and now In the Night Garden is taking to the stage in spectacular fashion… Words by Jack Kellett The iconic BBC children’s show has grown so popular that creator Andrew Davenport has transformed its success into a live show, set to play in public parks across the UK this summer. The four-city tour includes London and Glasgow but the dazzling world premiere and launch of the show takes place in Liverpool’s Sefton Park. For the first time kids and parents will be able to see all their favourite characters, Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, and Makka Pakka in the flesh. The characters will be brought to life with full-size costumes, combined with enchanting music, magical puppets and spectacular panoramic projections to create an immersive theatrical experience. Audiences will feel as though they are actually entering the magical world of In the Night Garden. In keeping with the stunning visual effects, the show is created in an inflatable, purpose-built touring theatre made up of two impressive, state-ofthe art show domes. These all-weather domes will take up temporary residence

in Sefton Park for a two-week stint beginning on Saturday 17 July and ending 1 August. The auditorium, located in the larger dome, will have just 500 seats, providing a truly exclusive and intimate feel with excellent sight-lines and proximity to the stage for the entire audience. During the run, families will have the choice of two shows, each with a different story. And with up to five performances a day, there’s enough going on to fit every family’s schedule.

Liverpool is the perfect destination for this world-class event. The smaller dome contains all the facilities of a regular theatre, including a box office, toilets and catering points. To keep the event uniquely family-friendly there will also be buggy parks, babychanging areas and microwaves to heat up baby food. It appears everything has been thought of for this extraordinary event to ensure

a flawless transition from television screens to the stage. Andrew Davenport, creator and composer of In the Night Garden said: “I’m thrilled at plans for an In the Night Garden Live experience for children and their families that sets out to match the celebrated quality and high production values of the television series. I hope that the show will become a memorable experience for children up and down the country.” In the Night Garden has been a phenomenal success in the UK with high ratings, awards and press accolades since its launch in spring 2007. The show has won multiple awards (Best Pre-school Programme 2010 Broadcast Awards, BAFTA’s for Best Preschool Live Action 2007 and 2008) and has sold over 1 million DVDs, 2.5 million books and 4.4 million plush toys in the UK alone. Television sales now total 35 countries including Canada, Australia, Spain and China, with this truly global show being translated into 19 languages. So for Liverpool to stage the world premiere of this live production is a credit to the city and its cultural diversity. Producer, Andrew Collier, added: “We’re delighted to be bringing In the Night Garden Live to Liverpool for the world premiere. Liverpool is a fantastic city with a strong cultural legacy from its time as the City of Culture – it’s the perfect destination for this world-class event.” In the Night Garden Live will perform in Sefton Park from 17 July to 1 August. To book tickets please visit www.nightgardenlive.com or call 0844 581 1251

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com

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Archbishop Blanch CE High School A Technology College Training School Applied Learning School

Mount Vernon Road, Liverpool L7 3EA email: admin@blanch.org.uk

tel: 0151 709 1452

website:www.abblanch.com

Apply for a place on your daughter’s aptitude for Music or Art

OPEN EVENING FOR YEAR 7 ADMISSION 2011

MONDAY, 5 JULY 2010 at 6.00 p.m. “Good transition arrangements enable year 7 pupils to settle well” Ofsted 2008

A VERY WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU “Every child has a gift or talent given to them by God and it is our purpose to discover and develop this to the full” Jane Griffiths, Headteacher


Making a splash! Come along and see why...

Merchant Taylors’ Infants’ and Junior Schools provide the best foundation for pupils aged 4 – 11. There are many reasons to choose us: high academic standards; quality specialist teaching; small class sizes and an extensive extra curricular activity programme. We are committed to providing excellent facilities and, from September 2011, all pupils will benefit from the new £5.5 million state-of-the-art sports complex. Enrolment for the Mixed Infants’ or Boys’ and Girls’ Junior Schools takes place throughout the year and families are most welcome to visit at any time. Senior Boys

Senior Girls

Junior Boys

Mixed Infants & Junior Girls 0151 924 1506 Junior Boys 0151 949 9333 www.merchanttaylors.com Extensive School Bus Service Available “ A happy, friendly and nurturing atmosphere that feels like a family.” Parental Survey 2010

Mixed Infants & Junior Girls

The Merchant Taylors’ Schools, Crosby: a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: Company Number: 6654276. Registered office: Liverpool Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 0QP. Registered Charity Number: 1125485


Gateacre Community Comprehensive School

Specialist in Arts and Humanities “Creating learners, exciting minds” OPEN EVENING

OPEN MORNING

Tuesday 21st September 4-7pm

22nd and 23rd September

Students and parents are invited to tour the school, talk to staff and students and sample a wide range of activities as well as see a presentation of our exciting new school of the future that will open September 2011.

Tour times- 9.10am or 11.10am An opportunity for parents to informally meet staff and students and tour the school and see us at our best: working with our students. (Parents must pre-book a tour time slot before arrival).

OFSTED 2010: “Transition arrangements between years and across Key Stages are good and a vibrant induction programme gives students a positive start to Year 7.” “The school provides a close, caring community in which students feel safe and comfortable.” “The school is committed to involving parents and carers in the education of their children...” "The school is well managed and led and is in a strong position to make the best use of the new purpose-built facilities...” “The atmosphere is...forward looking and teaching and the curriculum [is] transformed to meet the needs of students...” “Learning is active and teachers make good use of resources such as information and communication technology to bring learning to life visually.”

GateacreSchool Community Comprehensive School omprehensive

Arts and Humanities Specialist College alist College

rd OPEN EVENING SEPTEMBER 4-7PM 23 SEPTEMBER 4-7PM

status has also brought about a“Specialist status has also brought about a rejuvenation of the school’s n of the school’s activities, especially in the enrichment activities, especially in the arts, educational trips and visits.Community tional trips and visits.Community Gateacre Comprehensive School Gateacre Comprehensive School This is having a ng a Arts and Humanities Specialist College Arts and Humanities Specialist College positive effect ect on learners, students’ exciting minds” “Creating learners, exciting minds” ’ “Creating levels of motivation.” ”

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OPEN EVENING 22nd September 4-7pm OPEN EVENING 22nd September 4-7pm “Students Students Students and parents are invited to tour the school, and parents are invited to tour the school, school…” talk to staff and students and sample a wide range talk to staff andenjoy students and sample a wide range of activities. of activities. “Specialist status is also

helping to revitalise the after school OPEN MORNING 23rd and 24th September enrichment in OPENactivities MORNING 23rd and 24th September sport to add to students’ Tour times- 9.10am or 11.10am Tour times9.10am or 11.10am Grange Lane, Gateacre Grange Lane, Gateacre acquisition healthier L25 4SD Liverpool L25 4SD An opportunity for parents to informally meet Anofopportunity for parents to informallyLiverpool meet Tel: 0151 428 1569 lifestyles.” Tel: 0151 428 1569

staff and tour the school Fax: 0151 421 and 1349 students and tour the school Email: (Parents must pre-bookGateacre a tour time slot before arrival). pre-book a tour time slot before arrival). Grange Lane, Gateacre-ao@gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk staff Fax: 0151 421 and 1349 students

Ofsted (Parents inspection 2007 Email: must

Gateacre-ao@gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk

Liverpool L25 4SDGrange Lane, Gateacre Liverpool L25 4SD Tel: 0151 428 1569Tel: 0151 428 1569 Fax: 0151 421 1349 Fax: 0151 421 1349 Email: Gateacre-ao@gateacre.

liverpool.sch.uk www.gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk

Grange Lane, Gateacre gateacre-ao@gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk Liverpool L25 4SD www.gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk Tel: 0151 428 1569 Fax: 0151 421 1349 Email: Gateacre-ao@gateacre. liverpool.sch.uk www.gateacre.liverpool.sch.uk


GAIN A QUALIFICATION IN

SPORTS COACHING AND ACTIVITY LEADERSHIP

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ACH frustrated. This is where Education Partnership steps in. Specialising in all aspects of A N DNetworks IE OY H Y S TA T J L teaching and coaching multi-sports activities, Networks enables young individuals to have the Y A E SA H opportunity to work their way towards a career in the leisure and sports sector - gaining valuable experience and qualifications in a motivational and energetic environment. With a positive mission statement ‘to offer every young person the opportunity to fulfil their full potential in whatever their chosen career route may be’ Networks provides a positive alternative for young people in education. Jenny Morris spoke to Networks director, Jeff Leathley, to find out more about the company and how young people can get involved.

Who can benefit? We aim to help every child that requires an alternative educational route – hence our motto. The age group we focus on is between 14 and 19 years of age, taking in varying levels of progressive qualifications.

There are several routes that people can take to join Networks via schools, local Job Plus connections or you can make direct contact with Networks and speak to one of the team about opportunities.

Why did you decide to set NEP up?

How has NEP benefited students?

We saw a positive route for children's progression to gain key skills, personal development and self confidence with a view to assist them to gain qualifications that could guide them to further education or employment in the leisure and sports industry.

Past students have gained confidence, self-awareness and a qualification and are now involved within the sports industry, coaching and leading others and enjoying a fulfilling career.

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If you think your child could benefit from an alternative education with Networks Education Partnership, then call 0151 285 3833 or email networks@eml.cc

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EDUCATION

We deliver education through sports which involve Key skills like numeracy and literacy and can offer various educational courses from level 1 to level 3 Sports leaders, including the principle of sports coaching and multi sports activity. Our motto and approach is "every child matters" - every young person has the right to learn and we aim to achieve this objective. We have highly trained and skilled teachers to help establish a pathway for students that can support job prospects and assist the local community regeneration.

How can someone get started with NEP?

ITIVE CON

Hi Jeff, can you please tell me a bit about Networks Education Partnership?

EDUCATION

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ONOMIC WE EC LL E V C I S I T andO N School can be a troubling time for some parents their children.V EWhilst others enjoy a traditional TR PO I school environment, many struggle with the academic curriculum and become unmotivated and

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St John Bosco Arts College

Mission Statement The purpose of our school is to ‘foster care, quality

and equality for all in the tradition of St John Bosco’

Where students achieve their goals!

!" #$ % & ' ( ) *)$+

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Stonedale Crescent, Liverpool L11 9DQ Tel: 0151 546 6360 Fax: 0151 548 5949 Email: enquiries@stjohnbosco.org.uk www.stjohnboscoartscollege.com

!" #$ % & ' ( ) *)$+ ,,,) & ' ( * ) "

Sunday 4th Easter Sunday ÂŁ29.95 Saturday 21st April August -~ Night of The Proms - SOLD OUT Friday 3rd December - Christmas Caberet with Sweet Sensations! ÂŁ34.95 ÂŁ34.95 $!" % # !# # & # ! ' "# $" ATURDAY TH AY

3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with the Fantastic Il Divo Tribute Act & Disco

Friday 9th April Saturday 11th September - Masquerade Ball Ladies Day at Grand National ÂŁ34.95 !$ & ( #! " !# # # #! "# # 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with The Classique Band performing, Fancy Dress optional, & Disco

Saturday 21st August ~ Night of the Proms $!" % # !# # & # ! ( Friday 29th October - Halloween Ball ÂŁ29.95 # # "# % #! $# # " 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with great party and Soul Band,

Floorshakers & Disco! Fancy Dress is optional SaturdayThe 11th September ~ Masquerade Ball $!" % # !# # & # "" $ Saturday 20th November - 80’s Night!! ! ! ( ! "" # " £34.95 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with our Fantastic 80’s Band & Disco

ÂŁ14.95

STEVE CHARLES

Christmas Caberet with a fantastic Take That / Westlife Show!!

ÂŁ34.95

£29.95 $!" % £34.95 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with Merseyside’s top Soul Band & Disco! # !# # & # # $ $" £34.95 # % ! " " # ) " Friday 17th December - Christmas Caberet with The Commissars £29.95

3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with our Take That / Westlife Tribute Band & Disco!

Friday 10th December - Christmas Caberet with Soul Patrol - SOLD OUT

Friday 29th October ~ Halloween Ball ÂŁ29.95 Saturday 27th November - Elvis Tribute Night!! $!" % # !# # & # ! # !#( " $ ÂŁ34.95 !" !" " ( ! "" " # 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with tribute act Elvis Brettini Band & Disco!

S 15 M AN EVENING WITH Saturday 4th December - SOLD OUT

3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with our fabulous Band, the Sweet Sensations & Disco!

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3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment with the Commissars & Disco!

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Saturday 18th December - Christmas Cabaret 3 Course Meal and Live Entertainment & Disco!

TO BOOK PLEASE CALL 0151 263 0363 AND SPEAK TO OUR EVENTS TEAM

the isla gladstone conservatory stanley park anfield road liverpool l4 0td tel: 0151 263 0363 info@theislagladstone.co.uk www.theislagladstone.co.uk


HAIRSPRAY

FEATURE

Shimmying its way onto the summer stage this August is the multi award winning musical, Hairspray, starring Liverpool’s Michael Starke and Les Dennis. This high-octane energy filled show has received rave reviews in both the UK and in the US and its success shows no sign of stopping. Full to the brim with cheery can-do happiness, Hairspray is as kitsch as it is cult and belts out toe-tapping tunes from the word go. Words by Jenny Morris

It’s 1988 and a film has just been released about an overweight, kooky family from 1960s Baltimore featuring a cross-dressing luvvy and a soon-to-be chat show queen. Not the standard recipe for success one may think, but succeed it did and Hairspray soon became a cult classic. Originally starring Devine and Ricki Lake as Edna and Tracy Turnblad, Hairspray was to be an inspiring tale of the ‘nothing’s impossible’ ilk that has transcended generations and still rings true today. It's 1962 and Hairspray is set in a world

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on the cusp of a new era that would bring about shifts in social perception. Based in Baltimore, USA, the story centres on Tracy Turnblad; a big girl with an impressively big hair-do and an even bigger heart. Her passion for dance is all-consuming and her irrepressible charm and energy is infectious. Tracy’s all-time dream is to appear in the local TV dance programme, The Corny Collins Show – little does she know that her fabulous dance moves will make her an overnight teen celebrity and propel her into the world of TV stardom, where she experiences the best – and worst – times of life as a star. Tracy isn’t just a pleasantly plump face either; she uses her stardom as a platform to tackle tough subjects such as segregation. Tracy’s inspired by all sorts of music, from the 1960’s dance show hits to the songs from the streets of Baltimore and its downtown rhythm and blues record shop she loves. She sees the injustice in segregation and fights to gain integration in The Corny Collins Show – a landmark event for 1962’s Baltimore – and all with her beehive barnet intact. With odious characters like Amber Von Tussle – the reigning dance queen and all-round spoilt madam – and endearing characters such as the downtrodden Wilbur Turnblad and larger than life Edna, Hairspray is a stunner of a show for friends and family alike. The Hairspray musical debuted in New York in 2002 and was an instant hit. Since then Hairspray has toured over the USA and has embarked on its UK tour with predictable energy, enthusiasm and an award-winning original score. 2007 saw a remake of the film, starring John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and Zac Efron and ensured the brand accrue a new legion of 21st century Hairspray fans in the process. This 17 August will see the Liverpool Empire Theatre welcome the hit show to

Her fabulous dance moves make her an overnight teen celebrity. its stage in a flurry of marabou feathers, pink lippy and - of course – lots and lots and lots of hairspray. Television and stage star Michael Starke will take on the role of the effervescent Edna, whilst Les Dennis shines as Wilbur Turnblad in this most unlikely of marriages. Winner of over 40 major awards, Hairspray will run until 4 September 2010 in Liverpool before taking on further UK dates. Liverpool Empire Theatre www.liverpoolempiretheatre.org.uk 0844 847 2525

HAIRSPRAY FACT FILE 175 wigs are used in Hairspray, each one handmade. The cast gets through 80 cans of hairspray each week! Hairspray has performed in New York, London, Toronto, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Germany and Australia – to name a few. The fantastic transformation into Edna Turnblad takes over two hours for each performance. The production travels in seven trailers, carrying around 13.8 tonnes of equipment and uses nearly 8 miles of cable.

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Fazakerley Advice Bureau THE RIGHT ADVICE...WHEN YOU NEED IT

Beat the credit crunch with Fazakerley Advice Bureau We have over 10 years experience giving advice in the Community.

Get free help from us. We have 3 experienced debt specialists who can advise you on what to do. Debt advice and assistance on all priority and non-priority debts, including rescheduling and challenging decisions. We also assist in bankruptcy. Don't delay - it may only make matters worse for you: make an appointment or just call into our drop-in centre Mon to Fri 9-12

WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU. RING US NOW ON 0151 525 5051 What we can do for you

YOU CAN DROP IN MONDAY TO FRIDAY FROM 9-12 FOR AN INFORMAL CHAT TO DISCUSS ANY ISSUE YOU MAY HAVE

Our Specialist Community Care team work within the areas of Community Care and all aspects of disability issues. Our Specialist Community Care Solicitor can advise you on:

Access to Community Care Services, including housing and financial support under Community Care legislation, for non-working EU nationals, asylum seekers and people subject to immigration control

Charges for services, including treatment of income and capital, deprivation of capital, out of area placements, free registered nursing care, top up payments and deferred payments Challenging assessment, service provision or charging decisions, the failure of Local Authority to provide services in accordance with an Agreed Care Plan, or delays in providing services Complaints about the decision making process or standards of care provided, in the home, or in residential care

WHY YOU SHOULD MAKE A WILL HERE If you do not make a Will your Assets could go to relatives that you do not wish to benefit from your Estate. Making a Will with us is not expensive. If you are in receipt of State Benefits you will most likely not have to pay anything at all. If you are not receiving State Benefits our current charges are £40.00 for one Will, £75.00 for two Wills, e.g. husband and wife. All Wills prepared here are carried out by Julian Green who has over 40 years legal experience in the preparation of Wills.

Welfare

Advice and assistance on entitlement of all benefits. We can represent at tribunals, challenging decisions.

Disability Rights

Advice and assistance on all aspects of disability discrimination including representation at Court.

Housing

Advice and assistance with all aspects of housing issues, we represent at court hearings in respect of re-possession proceedings.

All clients will be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality. We have 6 interview rooms, two of which have wheelchair access.

Community Care Advice and assistance on all aspects of community care including claiming restitution care costs.

Community Legal Service

Employment Advice and assistance in all aspects of employment issues.

Fazakerley Advice Bureau Telephone: 0151 525 5051 FAIR Ltd - Charity No. 1074733

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INVESTOR IN PEOPLE

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If the Will requires a property to be sold we can advise you accordingly.

COMMUNITY CARE ● WILLS ● DEBTS HOUSING ● WELFARE BENEFITS ● CREDIT CARD ISSUES ● PROOF OF INCOME REQUIRED ●

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We can also assist you when a relative dies, in the obtaining of probate of the Will and collecting in various monies, e.g. bank accounts, savings, stocks and shares, insurance policies, etc.

We offer free legal advice, assistance and representation to the communities of FAZAKERLEY, KIRKBY, MELLING and throughout Merseyside.

We have been serving the community for over 10 years and our advisors and staff are fully qualified in dealing with a wide range of legal, housing and money matters. We have helped thousands of individuals and families through some difficult times.

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Obtaining a decision from the Local Authority about services they are able to arrange (home care, day care, aids and adaptations, housing, temporary and long-term residential care, direct payments and vouchers for carers)

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MOTORING Sad, isn’t it, when you remember seventies car tuning adverts? That memorable catchphrase promoted hotter Leyland cars - and got me thinking about how things have changed so radically in the last 15 years or so. Did you know, for instance, someone’s extracted a mighty 1000hp from a Mitsubishi Evo? Nor me, until I met a friend who imports Japanese cars and told me about such a beast in west Lancashire. That’s taking tuning to the max, and after driving Mitsubishi’s wonderful Evo 330 SST, I’m wondering if 1000 bhp is just a weeny bit OTT. Anyone with a hint of petrol in their veins knows about the Evo. Along with Subaru’s iconic Impreza, it’s helped redefine how many view the hardcore Oriental drivers’ cars that now take their rightful place on the performance podium. Confession time – I was salivating before I even drove the 330 after reading the glossy brochure for the latest 10th generation Evo. The latest range hit the UK early last year, and had some big tyre tracks to fill, the previous nine models carving an enviable niche with petrol heads of all ages. So, what's the score for the latest Evo X? Well, it looks different with even more aggressive styling, a longer wheelbase and wider track. It’s been almost eighteen years since the introduction of the original Evo and in that time the car has grown in size, power, and reputation. It’s fascinating to trace its DNA down the model line and the latest model sports the new corporate ‘jet fighter’ grille, along with multiple air intakes and diffusers (to cool the car and aid aerodynamics) while its focussed sports oriented interior tells you this new model means business. All of this would ultimately be irrelevant if the EvoX didn’t raise its game on the road. The 330 doesn’t disappoint, its lighter aluminium engine block, titanium turbo and MIVEC valve timing system all conspiring to power a car which can quicken the pulse, engage the imagination and terrify and impress in equal measure... Its brilliant SST transmission is the finishing touch, lifting the 330 to pure box office from behind the wheel. Perhaps the best way to describe the driving experience is to quote Bruce Springsteen when he first heard Dylan’s ‘Like a rollin’ stone.’ He said it was ‘like having the doors of my mind blown open.’ Ditto the Evo 330SST … and there’s more;

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Mitsubishi Mayhem. Mazda Madness. ‘Thwack!’ ‘Biff!’ ‘Zonk!’ - remember those wonderful graphics in the ham-fisted fight scenes from the sixties Batman TV show? And after driving a trio of feisty Mitsubishi and Mazda’s, Frank Davis came up with one of his own - ‘Jap-pow!’ Make no mistake; Mitsubishi’s Evo 330SST and Sportback Ralliart along with Mazda’s mighty 3MPS each pack a mighty punch…

Mitsubishi Evo 330 SST

Anyone with a hint of petrol in their veins knows about the Evo.

Mitsubishi’s introduced a limited edition FQ400 as the ultimate expression of Evo–lutionary development: yours for around £50,000. ‘Evo lite’ is a fitting way to describe the new Lancer Sportback Ralliart. It has the same streetwise attitude, almost the same aggressive looks - but without such a hefty price tag. The Sportback’s are a new addition to the Lancer range – the model’s served Mitsubishi well since its UK launch back in 1974. But today’s new Lancers are, understandably, a lot different, amply demonstrated with a week testing the top of the range Ralliart model which at £24,000 is not quite as terrifying as a bona fide Evo but performs well enough, its SST transmission endowing the car with blindingly fast gear changes during press on driving while showing commendable docility when enjoying the highway at a less frenetic pace. My one bone of contention has nothing to do with the car but the dealers – or rather lack of them locally; you’ll either have to travel to Warrington or Grimsargh near Preston … although a trip to the latter might give you a brilliant excuse to test the Ralliart to the full in its natural habitat, the wonderful Ribble Valley. We’ve all seen them strutting their stuff – muscle bound young men with their designer shades, designer clothes and slightly menacing attitude. Invariably, on the end of designer lead is a designer dog – and we’re not talking poodles either... They reminded me of the latest Mazda 3 MPS - that’s Mazda Performance System for the uninitiated. At £22,295, it’s the company’s sole performance model after the untimely demise of the wonderful 6 MPS in 2008. And their latest model looks suitably aggressive with attitude in abundance. Taut, ‘in yer face’ styling has been honed for 2010 and the MPS is even leaner and meaner, up front a monstrous bonnet air scoop signifying its serious performance credentials while following up the rear, twin rear exhausts aren’t there for decoration. The barking MPS hits 60 in 6.1 seconds, is limited to 155 mph and while its ride and handling have been suitably fettled for its street fighting role, it still feels like a rottweiler on a leash on a challenging B road. But it’s ‘dog eat dog’ in the performance hatch stakes - and this hard core Mazda has plenty of talented competition from Ford, Vauxhall, Mitsubishi and VW.

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Win a family* ticket to visit Alton Towers on any day of the season.

Escape to the Alton Towers Resort in 2010 and experience the ultimate world-first rollercoaster TH13TEEN. The new unbelievable attraction will take visitors on a ride in to the Dark Forest – it’s every ride you’ve ever dreamed of in one. Scream your way into Oblivion, experience the windswept exhilaration of Air and enjoy Nemesis’ famous turbulent, twisting frenzy. Enjoy a mind-blowing mix of fantastic rides and attractions offering unlimited fun for kids of all ages, families and thrill seekers. Explore the hidden shipwreck of underwater fun, Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE located in the Pirate themed area mutiny Bay, plus the fantabulous fun area Cloud Cuckoo Land, especially for our younger guests. *The family pass consists of 2 adults and 2 children under 12 and is valid for any one day of the season from now until 31st October 2010. The pass is for entry into the theme park only and does not include food or drink. Tickets are non transferable.

What is the name of the new rollercoaster at Alton Towers Resort?

a) Twelve b) th13teen c) fourteen

To submit your answer to The Liverpool Magazine just email

win@a-cpublishing.com

quoting 'Alton Towers' in the subject line.


GARDENING

Blooming

Marvellous Now that the summer is here at last it is time to start looking at biennials plants. These flowers need sowing between May and July, and will flower the next year. Perhaps the best biennials for cutting are wallflowers - there are many different varieties in lots of different shades. What to buy Erysimum cheiri 'Fire King', has orange flowers and Erysimum 'Blood Red', very dark red blooms. Sweet Williams also make good cut-andcome-again flowers - Dianthus barbatus 'Nigricans' has spikes of dark purple. Most bedding plants, whether bought or home grown, will have been started in warm conditions and like to be acclimatised before being planted outside. To do this, put plants in a cold frame or unheated porch for a few weeks before planting out. Dig out a hole in a container or in the soil that's large enough for the rootball to fit comfortably. Separate out plants, gently removing individual rootballs. Place in the hole, so the compost is just beneath the level of the surface of the soil and fill in the gaps around the plant with soil. Firm and water. Aftercare Water plants daily in the summer - plants in containers and hanging baskets may need watering twice a day during dry weather. Add liquid feed in your watering can and apply once a week. Remove dead flowers from winter and summer bedding plants as they fade.This keeps them tidy and encourages new blooms not only in your borders but also in your containers and hanging baskets In exposed sites stake and tie tall varieties of wallflowers and keep them well watered to encourage strong growth. Wisteria requires summer pruning during early July about two months after flowering prune side shoots and long twining stems down to five or six leaves from a main branch. If you're not sure when a climber or wall shrub is best pruned, a useful guide is to prune spring and early summer-flowering plants when their blooms fade. Those flowering in late summer usually do so on the

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current year's growth, so encourage this by pruning in late winter. Harvest your salad leaves regularly, whenever they reach 10-15cm. Either pull off whole leaves leaving the growing heart, or use scissors to snip off the leaves, leaving at least 2cm behind to grow into a new crop. Sowing more leaves every few weeks will make sure you have a steady crop later on. Sow carrots every fortnight to ensure a regular supply of crops. Sow out French beans straight out into open ground. Sow out your courgette seedlings after you have hardened them off. If you haven't planted out tomatoes yet, get them in the ground now. Water plants daily and feed with a tomato fertiliser when they begin to flower. Early potatoes can be lifted and eaten as soon as they are in flower. Leave second and maincrop varieties in the ground until they are ready for harvest later in the summer.

Give your lawn a weekly trim. Regular cutting will keep the grass thick, green and free of weeds. Basil plants that have been hardened off can be planted out now. Choose a sheltered sunny spot for best results. You can trim formal hedges while they're actively growing. Don't forget to water and mulch the base of the plant afterwards. Take cuttings of your favourite herbs. Plants will root easily within eight weeks and will

then be ready for planting out. Give your lawn a weekly trim. Regular cutting will keep the grass thick, green and free of weeds. Regular feeding with a lawn fertiliser will also help it to look thicker and greener. During long dry spells like we have had recently mow less frequently. Pinch out growing tips on fuchsias to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Begin feeding plants when the flower buds first appear. Remove weeds before they flower and go to seed. When pulling perennial weeds, make sure you pull up the entire root. Encourage strong growth and a long flowering display of rose blooms by sprinkling rose fertiliser around plants. Cut back shrubs after flowering to rejuvenate plants and improve their overall shape. Ribes and philadelphus benefit from a hard prune now. Take cuttings of your favourite shrubs from now until early August and you'll have plenty of new stock for autumn planting. Philadelphus, hydrangeas and forsythias all root easily. Layering is a simple form of propagation which consists of bending a low branch or shoot down to soil level, wounding the shoot and then covering this portion with soil to encourage it to root. It can then be severed from its parent to produce a new plant. Just make sure you use a non flowering branch. Blanketweed can take over and if left unchecked in ponds it can choke plants and restrict the movement of fish. Make sure to remove the weed from ponds as soon as it appears. Now – let’s hope for some smashing sunny weather so you can fully enjoy all your hard work! Steven Hay Oakleaf Landscapes – Southport Flower Show Gold Medal Winners. 0151 526 1921 www.oakleaflandscapes.net

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PROPERTY

PROPERTYFOCUS Allerton Special

In recent years, Allerton has flourished as one of South Liverpool’s most affluent areas. Surrounded by shops, cafe’s, bars and restaurants, Allerton is at the forefront of sought after places to live in Liverpool. Outside of the city centre, Allerton offers just the right amount of hustle and bustle, all in glorious leafy green surroundings.

When moving to a new area, it is always good to know as much about it as you can; what schools it has to offer, what transport links the area has and what there is to do in your leisure time. Allerton is one of those rare areas that offers you all you could want from a city centre, whilst not actually being a city centre. Allerton is mainly made up of 1930’s semidetached houses, with larger houses in the prestigious Calderstones Park area. Historically, Allerton has been known as a village; derived from the Old English ‘alr ‘alder’ and tun’, meaning enclosure. It wasn’t until 1894 when the Local Government Act made Allerton an urban district, and 1913 when it was added to the county borough of Liverpool. In the past ten years, Allerton, especially Allerton Road, has made a name for itself as being a popular place for vibrant bars and restaurants. The South Liverpool district is home to many schools, including the prestigious Blue Coat School and Liverpool College, holding some of the highest test scores in the area. There are many to choose from including infant, primary, secondary and sixth form schools which cater to every need. The local Calderstones Park is not only rich in stunning scenery but is a great place to practice your tennis skills with fantastic courts that play host to the annual Liverpool International Tennis Tournament. The housing market in the Allerton area is not always representative of the rest of the country. While we are hearing and reading national reports of the market picking up and house prices on the rise, the figures tend to represent London and southern areas of the UK. To bring the figures into Liverpool’s everyday reality, Malcolm Gray, sales manager of Parkgate Properties spoke to On-The-Move. He has said that if anything, house prices in Allerton are either staying the same or coming down. He went on to comment on the average price of houses saying that “a typical three-bed semi would cost (on average) between £180,000-£200,000, but you can get a very nice house for £170,000. It just depends on the area you are looking at.” Although houses are on the market and for sale at very reasonable prices in Allerton,

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20 Forthlin Road, Allerton: Home of the young Paul McCartney the lettings markets seems to be having a moment. Malcolm has said that estate agent’s offices are flooded with people looking to rent, rather than buy. Rentals are flying off the market in South Liverpool, which might have something to do with the slow moving mortgage industry. Banks are still not lending as much as people need. People are holding tight until the June Budget reveals what the new Government has planned for the property market, before making any big commitments. Probably the greatest tourist attraction of Allerton is that it was home to Sir. Paul McCartney. He lived on Forthlin Road in a modest terraced house with his brother from 1955. The Beatles met in Allerton and wrote many of their earlier songs

in his house. Unfortunately, McCartney doesn’t grace the house with his presence anymore, but it has been restored so you can grace it with yours. Pre-arrange through the National Trust for a viewing of inside the house. Whether you are looking to buy or rent, Allerton has more to offer than you might think. A large supermarket, highend restaurants, and several gym and leisure centres are only a handful of what the district has to offer. With excellent transport links into the city centre via bus or train, and to the nearby John Lennon airport, Allerton is an ideal commuter community.

www.theliverpoolmagazine.com


PROPERTY

RESTORATION

MAN TALKS

RIBA This month the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) North West Architecture Festival hits the city of Liverpool. From 1 – 26 June the city will play host to fans of design and architecture over the region, and has some exciting events in its line-up. There will be fantastic guided walking tours around Liverpool’s famous waterfront, taking in the cityscape of Liverpool and showcasing some of the best architecture in the region. The festival – a celebration of the wealth of spectacular architecture in the North West – will also highlight the release of the RIBA’s ‘350 Awards’ shortlist – an award given to projects costing under £350,000. The awards will also include a ‘People’s Choice Award’ picked by the festival fans throughout the course of the event, which is supported by Channel 4’s Restoration Man, George Clarke, who we caught up with recently to discuss divine designs... Words by Jenny Morris

Hi George, tell us a bit about the RIBA North West Architecture Festival... It’s basically a festival to celebrate all sorts of architecture in Liverpool, particularly the small scale architecture – there’s something called the People’s Choice Award which is celebrating buildings that have been done for under £350k, which is amazing really – they’re normally projects that kind of miss the radar so it’s great they’re being recognised here. It’s celebrating quite interesting and innovative projects which I think is great and something that should be celebrated more rather than just the big, epic builds that have happened recently. You’ve listed Durham Cathedral as one of your top five buildings – not too dissimilar to liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral – what do think about Liverpool’s architecture as a whole ? I think a lot of the more recent modern stuff that’s happened is quite amazing – I mean Liverpool ONE and all that development in the middle of the city

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is quite cool I think, there’s a lot of talk of regeneration in lots of places but not many actually get on and do it – and I think Liverpool has done that which is amazing. The Anglican cathedral is just a beautiful building, and the Roman Catholic Cathedral you have - that’s probably my favourite building in Liverpool. I know that may be quite controversial because people either love or hate it – but inside with all the stained glass it’s phenomenal really. You’re currently on our screens as channel 4’s restoration man – does it still surprise you at the lack of experience some buyers have ? I don’t know if I find it surprising really – I mean I think people have a huge lack of knowledge about ordinary buildings, let alone Grade I, Grade II listed buildings like the ones on the show. It’s such a difficult bureaucratic process - even for architects it’s a difficult process - but for laypeople, taking on things like that is even more difficult. These buildings are of such historic value that the level of red tape just goes through the roof. I think it’s amazing for people to be brave enough to take these projects on. I was going to say they’re ordinary people, but they’re not in many respects because they’re quite extraordinary people. If they didn’t do them then we’d be losing quite important pieces of British heritage I think. That would be a real tragedy so I take my hat off to them, I have a lot of respect for them really. The ones that do it well anyway!

Everybody should be appreciative of what’s around them... it can only be a positive thing for architecture.

Why is architecture important? Are people in the 21st century a lot more switched on to the importance of design and architecture? I think they are. I think other programmes like Grand Designs and other interiors programmes have really raised people’s awareness to the importance of buildings. I think everybody should be appreciative of what’s around them – not just their own home but other great buildings that were built in their area – it can only be a positive thing for architecture. When I go to schools and visit the school kids to talk about architecture so many of them want to be architects now. After watching the show, they just want to get in there and build and design things, which to me is not only flattering but is also good for the profession. What’s the most challenging design and restoration project you’ve had to date? I think my own house is always a challenge really – it is a 1910 Edwardian house, which was really tired and ruined on the outside with all the period features there, so that was a restoration project in itself really; and a kind of home show project on the inside where I’ve tried to make all the spaces work. So on the outside it’s like a period house but on the inside it’s very modern with glass floors and white walls everywhere and things like that. If you could restore one type of building what would it be and why? I think the favourite story out of all of them on Restoration Man is the Ice House in Scotland, this underground 19th century stone fridge which was converted into a one bedroom home – it was amazing and the most phenomenal building; probably the most unusual building project I’ve ever been involved with in my life – it was a real challenge. For a full list of events at this month’s RIBA North West Architecture Festival please visit www.af2010.org.uk

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City Office 8-10 Stanley Street, Liverpool, L1 6AF Sales and Lettings Tel: 0151 236 4400 Email: city@venmores.co.uk

Mann Island, The Strand, L1

Pure Class. Cutting edge apartments in prime waterside City location. A 22nd Century building in 21st Century Liverpool. Mann Island is an outstanding exclusive development that combines traditional layouts with a modern and contemporary twist. The apartments comprise large double bedrooms, living rooms, fully fitted modern bespoke kitchens and balconies, all apartments are provided with lift access. The location off the Strand is second to none with panoramic views across the Three Grace’s, the Royal Albert Docks, the River Mersey and the urban cityscape of Liverpool. Liverpool’s Tate Gallery, the Maritime Museum and Liverpool One are all within two minutes walk. Parking spaces are also available. CALL NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. DUE FOR COMPLETION FROM AUGUST 2010.

From £129,000

Oundle Place, L25

A stunning and beautifully presented detached family house in L25, Woolton/Hunts Cross. The modern detached villa was built in 1992 on the exclusive cul de sac is arranged over two floors and has been extended significantly on the ground floor and rearranged and extended above the former garage on the first floor. The ground floor comprises large entrance hall, 20’ main reception room, 18’ bespoke traditional kitchen with rose granite work tops with garden views, 14’ open plan dining room, 16’ conservatory reception room, separate wc, 10’ study room and 14’ TV room overlooking the garden. There is also a large utility room, shower room and larder. The first floor provides exquisite master bedroom with luxurious en suite bathroom and walk in wardrobe. Second bedroom with en suite shower room, and three further double bedrooms plus a family bathroom. The loft has been partially internally converted for storage and with its own private study space. All fittings and fixtures have been finished to an extremely high standard. The property benefits from double glazing throughout, amtico floors almost entirely throughout, off street parking for up to six cars, attractive landscaped front and rear gardens, barbeque area and, two decked patios and terrace areas, paved patio garden, lean to storage shed, washroom and wc with direct access from the garden, sauna, wet room and hot tub. Oundle Place is located off Hillfoot Road and School Lane in prime Hunts Cross and Camp Hill.

£650,000

visit www.venmores.co.uk or Call Our City Office Today: 0151 236 4400


Allerton Office 32 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LN Sales Tel: 0151 733 9000 Lettings Tel: 0151 734 6890 Email: allerton@venmores.co.uk

Church Road South, Woolton

Located in the heart of Woolton Village an idyllic period semi-detached cottage built circa 1850. The c. 150 ft secluded rear garden is laid to lawn with mature trees and shrubs, yorkstone patio area and ornamental pond. The property itself is finished to a very high standard with high quality kitchen & sanitary ware. The accommodation comprises: - entrance hall, front lounge with bay window, rear sitting room open plan to the kitchen with doors to a conservatory. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and a beautiful contemporary bathroom. The loft-room has a solid pull down ladder for convenient access. There is also a basement with stone paving. The property has many pleasing features associated with a property of this age and character and internal inspection is a must to appreciate! Woolton Village is an historic village in one of South Liverpool’s premier residential locations. The village has many amenities including restaurants, bars, coffee shops and shops.

£395,000

Eastern Drive, Grassendale Park

A charming and beautifully presented four bedroom family home on Eastern Drive arranged over four floors. The Victorian property has been tastefully renovated and updated over the last 5 years and finished to a contemporary, inspirational style. The property comprises off street parking, entrance hall, dining room with gas feature fireplace, 18' living room with original fireplace, period features, modern fitted kitchen with breakfast area. The first floor comprises master bedroom, modern bathroom and guest bedroom. The top floor comprises two further bedrooms, separate wc and a shower room. In addition, there is decked patio terrace, 35’ south-facing lawn garden with summerhouse and a lower ground floor basement area which could be easily converted into further living entertaining space. The property features high ceilings throughout, light and airy rooms and is in a highly sought after location in Woodend Park, Grassendale. The approximate internal floor area is 1700 sq ft. The property is 2 mins from Cressington Train Station and close to St Austins RC School.

£475,000

visit www.venmores.co.uk or Call Our Allerton Office Today: 0151 733 9000


40-42 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LN 0151 734 0666 www.suttonkersh.co.uk

Calder Point, L18

£175,000

A well proportioned bungalow style apartment Open plan lounge, dining area & kitchen Fitted kitchen Two bedrooms, master having dressing room Bathroom & WC integrated carport Offered without chain

Burnham Road, L18

Church Road, L25

£290,000

A mid terraced woolton cottage built approximately 1830 Many character features Lounge, dining room Kitchen Cellar, Three bedrooms Bathroom Yard at rear

£369,950

Wheatcroft Road, L18

£445,000

A spacious semi detached property Presented to a high standard Sitting room, rear lounge, dining room Stylish & contemporary kitchen Small office, Three bedrooms, Attractive bathroom & WC Mature gardens to front, side & rear Garage, Viewing advised

A well appointed detached residence Bright, spacious & well planned accommodation laid out over two floors, Open plan lounge & sitting room, Inglenook style fire place, Sun loggia, study, Four bedrooms, Additional attic space, Family bathroom & WC, additional WC, many original features retained Mature & established gardens to side & rear, Viewing advised

Darby Road, L19

Salisbury Road, L19

£499,995

An individually designed detached executive property, Cloakroom & WC, Well proportioned lounge, sitting room, Formal dining room Open plan morning room & kitchen, Utility room, Attractive sun room Five bedrooms, Master having en-suite bathroom, Additional family bathroom & WC, Mature gardens to front side & rear, Double garage No Chain

Offers in excess of £750,000

A substantial & beautiful detached period residence, The property stands within 1¾ plots with a further substantial area of land to rear, Substantial basement, Reception hallway with stunning return staircase leading to upper floors, Cloakroom & wc, sitting room, lounge, Dining room, sun lounge, kitchen, morning room, Eight bedrooms, additional tank room, Master bedroom having en-suite bathroom, Additional family bathroom & wc, A wealth of ornate & original features including deep skirting boards, coved & cornice ceiling, A seleciton of original fireplaces, Many original sash windows retained, Beautiful, substantial & mature gardens to front, side & rear, Garage

www.suttonkersh.co.uk


18 Mill Lane, West Derby, L12 7JB 0151 256 7837 www.suttonkersh.co.uk

Radmore Road, L14

£135,000

* EXTENDED SEMI DETACHED HOUSE * ENTRANCE PORCH * ENTRANCE HALL * LOUNGE * EXTENDED DINING FITTED KITCHEN * THREE BEDROOMS * BATHROOM/WC * DOUBLE GLAZING * CENTRAL HEATING * FRONT AND REAR GARDENS

Eaton Road, L12

Tiptree Close, L12

£165,000

* WELL PRESENTED DETACHED HOUSE * LOUNGE * DINING ROOM * KITCHEN * CONSERVATORY * GROUND FLOOR WC & UTILITY ROOM * FOUR BEDROOMS - MASTER HAVING EN SUITE * DOUBLE GLAZING & CENTRAL HEATING * FRONT & REAR GARDENS & GARAGE * NO CHAIN INVOLVED

£179,950

The Boulevard, L12

£227,500

* UNIQUE PERIOD PROPERTY * WELL PRESENTED MEWS HOUSE * RECEPTION HALL/ SITTING ROOM * LOUNGE WITH FEATURE FIRE PLACE * STUDY * FITTED KITCHEN * THREE BEDROOMS- MASTER EN SUITE BATHROOM * FAMILY BATHROOM * COMMUNAL COURTYARD * DOUBLE GLAZING & CENTRAL HEATING

* WELL PRESENTED DETACHED BUNGALOW * ENTRANCE HALL * LOUNGE * DINING ROOM/ STUDY * FITTED DINING KITCHEN * THREE BEDROOMS * DOUBLE GLAZING & CENTRAL HEATING * MODERN BATHROOM/ WC * GARAGE * GARDENS TO FRONT & REAR

General Drive, L12

Lyell House, L12

£245,000

* WELL PRESENTED DETACHED HOUSE * GROUND FLOOR W.C. * LOUNGE AND DINING ROOM * FITTED KITCHEN WITH GRANITE WORKTOPS * UTILITY ROOM * MASTER BEDROOM WITH ENSUITE FACILITIES * THREE FURTHER BEDROOMS * LANDSCAPED REAR GARDENS * DRIVE WAY AND GARAGE * DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOW AND CENTRAL HEATING

£495,000

* DORMA BUNGALOW * LOUNGE * STUDY/SNUG * KITCHEN * THREE/ FOUR BEDROOMS- MASTER EN SUITE * DINING ROOM * CENTRAL HEATING & DOUBLE GLAZING * BATHROOM * ATTACHED GROUND FLOOR GRANNY FLAT WITH EN SUITE * FRONT AND REAR GARDENS

www.suttonkersh.co.uk


Sunshine Villa

Broadstairs, Kent

Sunshine Villa is a large Victorian house that has recently been lovingly restored to a high standard. Two reception rooms, dining room for 8 and a fully fitted, modern kitchen create a spacious, airy home which is ideal for large groups or families - who need space while on holiday by the sea. We use hotel bed linen - beautiful white linen and fluffy white towels.We are located up a quiet side street a short stroll from the beach. The South facing Morroccan themed courtyard with barbeque and seating is a tranquil place to relax after a day on the beach. Each bedroom is carefully decorated to create a relaxing environment for our guests - 2 bathrooms and a separate WC is ideal for large groups. There is a Âplay roomÊ for children which includes, TV, DVD player, a box of fun dressing up clothes, lots of books and games. Golf is only a putt away at the North Foreland golf course or mini golf is 5 minutes away. Great coastal bike and walking trails. Sailing clubs. ThereÊs something for everyone in Broadstairs - old or young. Our pictures say it all !

Sleeps 8 4 Beds

£675 to £1625 per week Will consider long term lets (over 1 month), short-breaks (4 days or fewer) and corporate bookings

Call Janette Dryden on 01843 600 786 or 07540 594 269 for more details.

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