Liverpool Life 5:15 March 8 2017

08- March - 2017

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE...

NEWS

PAGE 5

Wirral dad aims to raise money for neo-natal care

LIFEextra

PAGE 8

Liverpool welcomes ‘March of the Mods’ for charity

SPORT

Women’s Rugby Union one step away from triumph

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

By JESSICA HARRIS

Rail services at Liverpool Lime Street Station will resume today after over a week of no action.

All trains from East-Midlands, Virgin, Northern, London Midland and Trans-Pennine express are set to travel in and out of Liverpool again after a trackside wall collapsed last Tuesday, causing disruption to all four overhead power lines.

Network Rail have been working hard to remove the 200 tonnes of debris that fell during the landslide as well as reinstating the wall that collapsed.

Martin Frobisher, Network Rail’s London North Western route MD, said: “We’re grateful for the teamwork of the Orange Army and the support of the train companies, and for the patience of both passengers the neighbouring residents and businesses.”

News of the re-opening will come as a huge relief to surrounding businesses as the closed station has hit takings hard.

Local shop assistant at Merseyside Management Nutan Kumari told Liverpool Life: “We have really been missing

out on trade in the mornings over the past week. A lot of people arriving off the early trains will come in for a quick pick up.

“Yesterday morning was the worst – the shop was like a ghost town. On any normal day I would make the majority of my daily sales between 6-8am and yet I can confidently say that I had less than 25 customers all day yesterday.”

Liverpool Life visited The Crown Hotel on Lime Street yesterday to find the pub bereft of customers.

Tina Hughes, who has been a barmaid at the The Crown Hotel for over a year, said that she had very rarely seen the pub so empty.

She said: “The past few days have reminded me of how the bar looks once Liverpool (FC) lose a football match. But this time it’s constant.

“Our regulars have been loyal but the atmosphere has been solemn and it hasn’t been great for trading. I feel as though other businesses might have taken a harder hit, but we’ve noticed a definite drop in both punters and sales.”

Commuters are advised to check before they travel on nationalrail.co.uk

PAGE 10

Lime Street re-opens ahead of schedule to relief of local traders

WAITING: Commuters queue for replacement buses due to the closure of Lime Street Station

© Jessica Harris

‘Yesterday morning was the worst – the shop was like a ghost town’

Life|News|2

MP’s campaign to stop jobcentre rot

By LAURA HUGHES

A public petition has been launched to prevent the government from closing two jobcentres in Liverpool.

The closure means 3000 people could be left without a centre if the plans to close Wavertree and Edge Hill offices go ahead.

Wavertree MP Luciana Berger set up the petition in a bid to keep the last two jobcentres in her constituency open.

She told Liverpool Life: “It makes no sense to me to leave Liverpool Wavertree, the constituency with the 41st highest unemployment rate in the country, with not a single jobcentre and to remove 40 per cent of provision across Liverpool.”

In 2012 Old Swan job centre was closed, meaning residents have to rely on the two remaining centres in the area.

If the offices close people will have to travel to Huyton or Toxteth to get the work sup-

port they require.

Ms Berger added: “Over 3,000 people would have to travel further to get to a jobcentre to sign on, to find work and to attend appointments every two weeks. It would cost people around £8.60 extra a month in public transport costs.”

Last week Luciana presented the petitions in Parliament to show the government how important these resources are to the community.

She explained: “I don’t believe the two jobcentres will close. Too many people will be adversely affected and our campaign is already proving very effective. It is clear from the minister’s answers to my questions in Parliament that these closures haven’t been thought through properly.

We can’t, and won’t, accept these closures.”

The plans come from the government’s strategy to close more than one in 10 jobcentres around the UK, with the loss of up to 750 jobs.

By PAUL GREENOUGH

EVICTED: Wavertree job centre is just one centre to be closed © Wikicommons The Department of Work and Pensions wants to “modernise” its network of jobcentres which could also see six other Liverpool sites close down.

Employment Minister Damian Hinds said: “The way the world works has changed rapidly in the last 20 years and the welfare state needs to keep pace. As more people access their benefits through the internet, many of our buildings are under-used. We are concentrating our resources on what we know best helps people into work.”

people into work.”

INSPIRING: Luciana Berger hopes to battle plans to close two job centres in Liverpool © Emma Baum

Hospital saving lives from the skies

By PAUL GREENOUGH

Work has begun on a new £1m helipad at Aintree hospital to help seriously injured patients who arrive by air ambulance.

Specialists at the regional major trauma centre, which brings together teams from Aintree and neuro-surgery experts from The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, say the new helipad will save vital minutes when transferring trauma patients from air ambulance into the hospital.

Currently air ambulances land so far away that it takes

Life

up to thirty minutes to get them from landing to the hospital.

The hospital’s landing pad is being funded by the HELP Appeal, which has funded helipads around the country since 2009.

Ms Catherine McMahon, Consultant Neurosurgeon at The Walton Centre, said: “We are excited about the completion of the helipad on the Aintree site which will help cut crucial minutes from the transfer time of patients to the Major Trauma Centre. When you have been the victim of a severe head injury every

Team Bringing you the news every Wednesday

Editor Hollie Hayes News Editor Aaliyah Rugg News Josh Hodge Gabrielle Walsh Damien Horwood Sam Heyhirst Features Editor Poppy Backshall

Features Andrew Cook Rosie Steedman Andrew Livingston Emma White Sports David Purcell Alistair Baker Sports Editor Laura Hughes

Beatles hotel named best

SAVIOURS: Professionals hope the new helipad can help them save lives © Aintree Hospital minute counts and this new that work is now starting on helipads, we are delighted development will help us to this life-saving helipad at to be able to donate the full reduce morbidity and save Aintree University Hospital, £1 million cost to fund its lives.” and to see this project get construction.”

Robert Bertram, CEO of off the ground. As the only The helipad is expected to charity in the UK providthe HELP Appeal, added: be up and running by sum“It is very satisfying to see ing funding for hospital mer this year.

The Beatles-themed Hard Days Night hotel has been named Britain’s best hotel in the Travel Republic Awards 2017.

The awards, which are based on reviews from customers on the travel booking firm’s website, received an average score of 8.7 out of ten based on 120 reviews - declaring the hotel to be “Excellent”.

The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, was obtained through countless travellers’ reviews which praised the hotel’s amenities and consistency in delivering first-class customer service.

Stephen Fernley, the hotel’s general manager, said: “We are delighted to have received such a prestigious award, which was directly derived through our happy guests on Travel Republic.

“It’s great to see our hotel being applauded on both a local and global scale, and it makes me feel so proud of our dedicated team members, who go above and beyond to make each guest’s stay enjoyable and highly memorable.”

The website deals with over 300,000 hotels, with 20 of these receiving the ‘Best’ in their respective regions.

Stephen added: “We would like to thank all of our guests who took the time and effort to submit their reviews onto the site.

“There certainly is no greater form of appreciation than being actively praised by customers.

“One hopes of continuing our prominent reputation - providing a high-class customer service will always remain our prime objective.”

Students challenge male stereotype

By ANDREW LIVINGSTON LJMU Drama students having been tackling the issues of perceptions of men’s body image with a new interactive exhibition.

Through visual and audio stimulants, the ‘Men Matter’ project aimed to provoke contemplation and reflection for visitors to the John Foster Drama Studio.

MP3 recordings guided guests through the exhibit as they listened to a selection of men speaking about their opinions and experiences of issues relating to their body image.

Stage manager for the exhibition, Edie Fitt-Martin, told Liverpool Life why this exhi-

bition focused on males.

She said: “Men should talk about themselves to each other much more. That is what we were trying to get out and that it is okay and not embarrassing.

“There’s a lot of deeper issues like anorexia, bulimia and Body Dysmorphic Disorder and that happens a lot within men and they don’t talk about it.”

One male on the MP3 player said: “Everyone inside has the way they feel about their body but sometimes it’s not the way you feel about your body, it’s the way you perceive that other people see your body – that was the majority of the discomfort that I have had.”

A variety of creative visuals attempted to engage visitors as the interviews played through headphones into their heads, creating a singular immersive experience.

One provocative stage saw guests sat looking into mirrors as the interviewees spoke of pressures from social media and how they found going to the gym intimidating around larger, more muscular males.

Despite only tackling issues relating to men, the exhibition engaged women visitors by having separate audio recordings for both genders.

Gareth Heels, who was also one of the drama students involved, suggested that it was important to be inclu-

JUDGE: Challenging the idea of an ideal man’s body © Andrew Livingston sive for both genders. He told Liverpool Life: “It’s all good having men coming in self-reflecting but then if a girl does not come in and had her opinion then the guy is not going to see the women’s side.”

Life|News|3

Wirral postcode voted ‘most desirable’ in UK

By AMEILA ECCLESONDAVIES

Bebington in Wirral has been voted the most desirable place to live and work in England for the second year running.

In an update of a study carried out in 2015 by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) for the Royal Mail, the CH63 postcode retained the top spot.

Factors that contributed to the leafy suburb’s success in the study include good schools, access to green spaces, good employment prospects, working hours, affordable housing and average commuting times.

Bebington resident, Hannah Bollans, 20, said: “Bebington is a very cultural place to live.

It has Ofsted-rated outstanding schools like Wirral Grammar.

“You can get to places relatively quickly from there, and it also has its own brilliant at-

tractions. And you aren’t far from New Brighton or West Kirby beaches with beautiful views.”

The research was carried out by reviewing a number of data sources at the local level, including the 2011 Census, the Department for Communities and Local Government’s Indices of Multiple Deprivation, General Land Use database and numerous releases from the Office for National Statistics.

Steve Rooney, Head of Royal Mail’s Address Management Unit, said: “Royal Mail delivers to nearly 30 million addresses across the UK, connecting communities and businesses.

“This new report builds on the study that we commissioned two years ago and provides unique insight into the most desirable places to live and work, through the lens of the postcode.”

Southern postcodes have also risen in popularity this year

with six appearing on the list compared to three in 2015.

NR6 of North and North West Norwich and BH18 of Broadstone, Bournemouth took second and third places.

CF63 in Barry took the top spot in Wales and the 2017 study saw an increase in CF postcodes with more than half of the desirable places to live and work in Wales located around Cardiff compared to two CF postcodes in 2015.

Bebington has also been home to multiple notable authors in the past and has served as inspiration for much-loved stories. For instance, Richard Lancelyn Green, who devoted his life to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Prime Minister Harold Wilson was also educated at Wirral Grammar School for Boys.

It’s results are consistently high and above the national average and the school has topped local and national league tables.

Mersey charity in full swing

By NICOLE QUINN

SCENERY: Brackenwood Golf Course © Wikimedia Commons

New vision launch for Albert Dock

By NICOLE QUINN

Liverpool’s world-famous Albert Dock is set for a major facelift to further boost its popularity.

Richard Wilson from Aberdeen Asset Management, said: “Albert Dock is a unique space and we have been working closely with our partners in Gower Street Estates since we acquired the commercial spaces last year.

“We want to create a new vision of the future of the retail and leisure offer for this one of a kind destination. We are really pleased with the direction of travel and will be introducing the scheme to planners and to the market in the next few weeks.”

The plans shared sees the vision for Albert Dock’s retail and leisure units with double-height, glazed win-

dows allowing the light and the incredible views in, and enabling double-height retail units along The Colonnades.

Rob Murphy, 45, from Birkenhead, told Liverpool Life: “There’s something about the Albert Dock area that is so relaxing. I often bring my dog here for a walk and she seems to love it. I think any improvements they make can only be for the better.”

Megan Archer, 26, from Liverpool, told Liverpool Life: “It’s one of those places that people automatically think of when you mention the city.

I’m excited to see what the new vision will hold.”

The Albert Dock is described as the vibrant heart of Liverpool’s historic waterfront.

Gavin Tuck presented the creative direction and spoke about the vision, he said: “We are embarking on a journey of change, one that will improve the overall attraction of Al-

FRIENDS FOREVER: Adam Cliff and Alex Craig in happier days © Richard and Caroline Cliff

A Wirral student has launched a fundraiser for cancer memory of his best friend’s death nearly a year ago.

Adam Cliff was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma, a rare type of cancer that forms within the blood. He was diagnosed in early 2014, and despite showing signs of recovery, Adam relapsed twice and had to wait over a year to receive treatment. He died shortly be-

Merseyside Swing Dancing group took to the streets of Liverpool to show their support for the Marie Curie Daffodil appeal.

The group have been supporting the cause for the past two years.

Hannah Anderson from the dance group told Liverpool Life: “Mersey Swing regularly get involved with charitable dancing gigs. We can’t say yes to them all but often we get involved with charities that have connections to our members.

“Two of our board of director’s work for local charities and one of our members asked us to be involved in Marie Curie’s daffodil appeal, as she was fundraising for them at the time. She has now moved on to another job, but we will keep showing our dedication to the cause.”

The Great Daffodil Appeal is Marie Curie’s biggest annual fundraising campaign.

Every March, millions of people across the UK support this fundraising event by giving a small donation to wear a daffodil pin.

Money raised through the appeal helps Marie Curie provide free care and support to people living with a terminal illnesses.

Body identified ATTRACTION (left): Liverpool Ferris Wheel © Nicole Quinn THE ALBERT DOCK (inset): Setting of Albert Dock © Laura Hughes

bert Dock.”

Alison Harper, 52, from Liverpool, told Liverpool Life: “I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember.

I have seen the changes the

area has undergone over the years. I hope my children and future grandchildren will appreciate coming here as much as I have.”

Chief executive of Albert Dock Sue Grindrod said: “We are very excited to see this

vision unfold and see it realised as part of the longer term plans for the Dock.”

The Albert Dock was not always as we know and see it today: its history dates back to 1839. Albert Dock is open every day until 11pm.

Student raises thousands for his late best friend

By SAM HEYHIRST

SMILES: Mersey Swing © Mersey Swing Facebook

fore his 18th birthday in March last year, not knowing that all of his friends had a huge surprise planned for him.

Alex Craig, Adam’s best friend, recently launched the ‘Raise a Glass for Adam’, a fundraiser to raise money for Bloodline, a charity that aims to help those with rare types of cancer.

Donations have been pouring in since its start-up last week, and currently stands at £1600, £400 short of the total that Alex wishes to raise in memory of his friend.

Alex told Liverpool Life: “Before he was diagnosed he was really friendly. He was my best friend, and our group of friends always hung out together in school and at lunch time. He liked to read books a lot and was constantly reading. He was one of the smartest people in the class and got on well with all the teachers and our classmates.

“Afterwards, he was even more positive in his outlook, he never asked ‘Why me?’ but just thought ‘why not me?’ whenever he got bad news he used to visit his little

cousin Alec who was four years old to cheer him up.”

Alex added: “We’re hoping to raise money to fund research on blood cancers in his memory.

He was very keen on not letting his time with cancer be a waste.

Whether he died or not, he wanted to make sure the doctor’s notes etc. were used to help patients in the future so no other teenager and their family and friends had to suffer as he and we did. So we are trying to carry on his wishes and have some good come from the tragedy.”

By AMBER ROBERTS A man in his 30s who was found dead yesterday near Liverpool city centre is believed to have been homeless.

The discovery was made just before 8am on Monday morning near the Brownlow Hill area, close to the University of Liverpool buildings, and police cordoned off a large area.

The man has now been formally identified and his next of kin has been informed.

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Life|News|4

Durban set to keep ‘22 Games

By DANYAAL YASIN The 2022 Commonwealth Games is going ahead in its original host city in South Africa after Liverpool offered to step in.

South Africa Sport and Recreation’s Director-General Alec Moemi says the country is ready to host the 2022 Games despite concerns over budget.

Liverpool put itself forward after South Africa sports minister Fikile Mbalula revealed that host city Durban might not be able to hold the event due to financial pressure.

The current budget stands at £290m, which the city might not be able to meet.

Mayor Joe Anderson wrote to UK sports minister Tracey Crouch expressing the city’s intentions to apply after Commonwealth Games officials suggested another host might be needed.

800 jobs to go as stores shut

By AMBER ROBERTS Over 800 jobs are set to be lost due the inability to find a buyer for a chain of 34 Budgens stores.

Food Retailer Operations Limited, the owner of the stores affected, was put into administration after hitting difficult trading conditions a month ago.

One local store on Victoria Road in New Brighton will be affected by the closures, and will shut its doors tomorrow.

Nine of the 34 stores closed over the weekend and the remaining 25 will shut for good over the next two weeks.

Kindness of social media strangers

By ISABEL EATON

A volunteer group set up on social media now has 20,000 members across the city.

People Help The People Liverpool started as a Facebook group and now has a citywide volunteer network.

The group was originally created by local Charlie Anderson, who has since passed on the day-to-day running to volunteers Nicola Stanley and Debbie Nur. Nicola, 34, from Liverpool, spoke about the group’s success: “We do all sorts throughout the year. In December we organised a free Santa’s grotto at the CADWA club so children had the opportunity to visit Santa.

“We have also helped a family fleeing from domestic violence to furnish their home, along with help from other members who helped organise free plastering, cleaners and decorators. It’s a caring group and we help members

on a daily basis.”

The idea of the group is to bring together people in need, and people who want to help them.

People Help The People Liverpool offers help ranging from food parcels to furniture.

Members of the group also offer advice on how to seek help from services such as the council.

Members log onto the site to see what help is needed and if they can offer it. Members will post items they are willing to donate or offer friendly advice to people in need.

One member of the group Louise Dundon, 27, from Vauxhall, said: “The help I have received has allowed me to fight depression and has given me confidence. Without the donations my home would be bare. Thanks to the page I have everything I need in my home.”

Another member Vicki Hodson, 39, from Kirkby, added: “This is more than just a page where we donate and request items. I have formed a friendship with a lady that I have a lot in common with who I’m sure will remain a lifelong friend.”

APPEALS: Screenshots from group © Isabel Eaton

Sisterhood Society share success stories

By GABRIELLA SANGHERA

A new community is set to launch in Liverpool aiming to inspire women of the North West.

The Sisterhood Society aims to create a platform for women to come together, share their success stories, and be inspired by likeminded women in the community.

The society is the brainchild of serial entrepreneur Kate Bentley and founder of ‘Oh Me Oh Mama’ Alishia Thomas. The society launches today on international women’s day, the event is

running at Constellations on Greenland Street from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Refreshments will be available at the event along with a soft play area for children.

This will be the first of its kind in the North West; the pair noted that there was no service like this available up north.

Co-founder Alishia Thomas said: “Initially we found that the majority of mama and women oriented meetings were based down in London and made no allowances or real effort to engage people up north.

“It was clear that there was

a real North-South divide and that is why we decided to go ahead and create the Sisterhood society, which is open to all women, and not just mamas.”

Each meeting will feature a different group of notable women to speak about their own stories of success in order to inspire others.

The meetings also provide the opportunity for members to make new contacts and receive support from the group.

Speaking to Liverpool Life, Alishia said: “We chose to launch this society because there are so many young, creative, driven women in

this city and many of them are mothers.

“There is so much inflexibility throughout work places these days and we wanted to bring together a bunch of like-minded women together under one roof to potentially engage, encourage and inspire others to follow their dreams and their passions.

“The Sisterhood is a place where you can feel at ease, and be part of a trusted inner circle of women. Ideas are supported, connections are made and friends are discovered.”

International Women’s Day dates back to 1909 and

was officially adopted by the United Nations in 1977.

The theme for 2017 is Be Bold For Change, for more visit https://www.internationalwomensday.com/

City wins fifth ‘ACC-olade’ on run

By NICOLE QUINN ACC Liverpool has won Best UK Conference Centre at an industry awards for the fifth consecutive year.

The ceremony, held at Battersea Evolution, London, celebrates the best international venues, destinations and suppliers in the events industry, as voted for by meeting professionals.

The venue was named Best UK Conference Centre at the M& IT Industry Awards, hosted by magazine Meetings and Incentive Travel.

ACC Centre: © Nicole Quinn Chief executive of The ACC Liverpool Group, Bob Prattey, said: “We are honoured to receive this award for the fifth year running. This is considered the top accolade in our events industry so it is a great vote of confidence that our clients consider our

venue the best in the UK. He added: “We would like to thank the city for its continued support.

We look forward to another year of large, high profile, national and international conferences such as Global Greens and NHS Confederation.”

The ACC is home to BT Convention Centre, Echo Arena and Exhibition Centre Liverpool.

It is a major employer in Liverpool and a proud supporter of the city it represents. They play a key role in the economy and help form a positive image of the wider region.

Liverpool City Council is the sole shareholder in The ACC Liverpool Group Ltd. It has its own Board of Directors consisting of both Liverpool City Council representatives and independent non-executive directors.

Life|News|5

Ukelele first at Cavern Club

By DANYAAL YASIN Liverpool’s most famous music venue hosted its first ukulele festival this weekend in aid of charity.

Celebrating 60 years since its opening, the Cavern Club has hosted megastars such as Adele and was the birthplace of the Beatles and Cilla Black.

With profits going towards BBC’s Children in Need and Radio City’s Cash 4 Kids, the event was labelled as “too successful” by organizers.

Shawna Carter, the woman behind the festival and ukulele player herself, said: “You’ve got to keep things fresh, don’t you? As people get older The Beatles create new fans, or just music in general changes, you have to adapt and if you don’t, you get left behind.

“We put ads out there and a lot of people who play ukulele responded saying they would love to play at the Cavern and that’s how it all came about,” she said.

With a line-up featuring Ormskirk Ukulele band, Liverpool Ukulele Orchestra, Wirral Ukulele Orchestra, and many more, the all-day event ran from noon until 9.30pm, with advance general admission selling out the day before.

Despite selling out, fans still queued up buying tickets on the door. The Cavern also arranged prizes to raffle off, including a Hofner Guitar violin bass, three Cavern ukuleles, one night bed and breakfast at Hard Day’s Night Hotel, a family ticket to The Beatles Story and Cavern goodie bags full of memorabilia.

American banjo player, Jesse Wheeler, told Liverpool Life: “I’m not going to lie, but a lot more people showed up than I expected. Who knew ukuleles were the staple point of our generation?

“Thanks to the overwhelming success of the event, there are plans to turn the ukulele festival into a biannual event, along with more versatile music events planned.”

Shawna added: “We might do this again in October because it’s been really successful, or even too successful, which is a good problem to have.”

Marathon man’s run to say thanks

By JESSICA HARRIS A father from the Wirral is hoping to raise money for a charity that helped his premature son.

John Close, from Heswall, is set to run in this year’s London marathon as a thank-you to Bliss, a charity that specialises in neonatal care.

John’s son James was born last March after his wife Rachel went into an early labour over three months before the expected due date.

Weighing a tiny 1lb 9oz, James was admitted to the Neonatal Unit at Arrowe Park Hospital where he was cared for by the doctors and nurses to whom his parents say they are indebted for life.

Mr Close told Liverpool Life: “We had been catapulted into a world, where the

respect for life, for someone so small and fragile, was truly amazing.

“The Ronald McDonald house became our home, and the staff became our family for the following 104 days.

“Having no prior knowledge of this type of extreme prematurity not for one second did either my wife or I know James’ chances of survival, we were battling in an environment with everchanging expectations and hurdles. At times it was hard to gain a foothold.

“We had many pep talks from the incredible nurses when we were having one of those days and regular reassurances from the consultants to help us understand what was happening.”

John was watching last year’s London marathon

when the idea to help other families in similar situations came to mind. Combined, last year’s marathon runners raised over £23 million for their respective charities.

He said: “Training is going well! I started back in January and I am gradually getting fitter and faster.

“It is all-consuming and hard to fit the training in around work and a young baby, but it helps to have a wife who understands when I go missing for the whole weekend!”

David Boorman, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Bliss, said: “We are so grateful to John for the hard work he has put into his fundraising and training for the marathon this year.

“John is part of a team of dedicated runners who are

TRAINING: John on a race day raising money and awareness for premature and sick babies across the UK. Their support is invaluable in helping us to

© John Close achieve our ambition to reach every single baby born needing neonatal care, and their family.”

Pro-choice campaigners on march for Women’s Day

By AMELIA ECCLESON DAVIES

People of all genders, ages and background will be marching in Liverpool this week in solidarity with women striking in Ireland.

The Strike 4 Repeal campaign is encouraging women in Ireland to strike on International Women’s Day to persuade the government to hold a referendum on the Eighth Amendment which guarantees the right to life for the unborn.

The amendment means that abortion is criminalised except in rare circumstances where continuing a pregnancy would result in death.

The law was introduced at a time when contraceptives were also illegal and can result in a sentence for up to 14 years in prison for a woman who wilfully terminates her pregnancy.

The University of Liverpool Pro-Choice Society is asking people to wear all black and meet at University Square at 6pm tonight.

The 30-minute event will contain a reading of a poem by a Northern Irish committee member, a two-minute silence, and the popping

CAMPAIGNERS: Ready for the march © UoL Pro-Choice of 12 black balloons, each representing one of the 12 Irish women who are forced to leave Ireland every day in search of safe abortion services.

Katriana Ciccotto, 22, Vice President of the UoL Pro-Choice Society, told Liverpool Life: “Many Irish women travel to Liverpool on a daily basis in search for safe health services. For some Irish people, Liverpool is even considered the ‘33rd County’ because of the high Irish population we have here.

“It’s crucial that people in Liverpool take part and stand in solidarity with their Irish sisters.”

Pro-choice groups argue that the law puts countless women in danger, physically and mentally especially when they are victims of rape.

Women are being urged to make a stand by either; taking an annual day of leave from work, refraining from domestic work for the day, wearing black in solidarity or staging a walkout during the workday.

Life| Focus |6

Goodbye to...

Former glory (above & below) © Lewis Jennings

LEWIS JENNINGS looks into the beloved Green Man pub and the repercussions its closure will have on the community which grew up with the 100-year-old boozer

T

his week marks the end of an era for the Vauxhall area, as one of the pillars of the community faces closing time after over 100 years in service.

The Green Man Pub, located on Vauxhall Road, has been serving pints for generations but called last orders back in June 2016 to make way for new apartments.

Unsurprisingly, it was a decision that faced backlash from locals. A major concern was the potential loss of ‘green space’ around the site, whilst others worried about who the potential tenants might be.

Councillor Joe Hanson supported objections. Last October, during a planning committee meeting at Liverpool town hall, he spoke about the community’s “passion to protect green spaces” and despite the site

being technically brownfield, added: “When people look at it they see green space.”

His speech raised issues over the lack of greenery in Vauxhall, and reminded councillors: “It’s so important to our residents.”

He was met with a round of applause as he finished speaking.

Though the scheme was approved, this did not stop residents from fighting back especially in an area as closeknit as Vauxhall. A petition gained over 150 signatures, but was unfortunately not enough to stop plans from going ahead.

John Gleeson, who lives behind the famous boozer and headed the lobby, told Liverpool Life: “Like many of my neighbours, we were furious at the decision that could have major repercussions on our area – particularly when you live right on the door-

step of the place.

“The street behind the Green Man is small enough and there is constantly problems with parking, so a new car park is all we need. It will only create more chaotic situations for people who have lived here all their lives.”

Cllr John McIntosh responded to fears by saying he was “satisfied residential amenity would be protected”, before asking a planning committee to agree that the controversial proposal was approved.

Mr Gleeson, 78, continued: “I have drank there all my life like the rest of my family – my mother’s parents were even drinking there!

"It’s a shame that such a treasured part of our community has to be demolished; thankfully my memories of the place can’t be taken away.”

Scousers will most likely remember the Green Man as the pub from the classic BBC2 serial ‘Boys from the Blackstuff’, when it appeared in the final episode of the Liverpool-based TV programme in a scene that

has been hailed as one of the most striking in the history of television drama.

The surreal scene stars actor Bernard Hill as Yosser Hughes, who headbutts a man who has been forcing him to shake his hand. A plaque on the side of the alehouse reads “SHAKE HANDS WAS HERE 1982” in reference to the iconic sequence.

One thing that old-timers remember is the thriving darts scene in the 1980s when the sport was popular amongst drinkers.

Kevin Cain, former editor of the Scottie Press and Vauxhall’s equivalent of Phil Taylor, recalled his time as a star player for ‘The Greens’.

He told Liverpool Life: “I moved to the Green Man in the early eighties when Tom and Carol O’Brien had the pub, two of the finest people you could ever meet.”

Within three years, Kevin had won everything there was to win when it comes to local darts. He fondly recalled memories of the boozer, reassuring that “The Greens wasn’t only about

darts.”

He added: “The weekends were always good entertainment with Mickey Keating being a fantastic entertainer.

Everyone in the pub were given their own songs, including myself.

There were also trips to racecourses for a bet on the horses, and the boxing nights that were a laugh.

“Overall a brilliant pub over the years, but sadly this once thriving pub is now closed. I have many miles of memories of my time in this once great pub.”

Sadly, the broken windows and boarded up doors tell the story of the Green Man’s demise. Now a shadow of it’s former self. Vauxhall residents reminisced with

Liverpool Life.

Betty Palombella, 68, recalled: “Everyone around the area would always go there for catch up drinks on Christmas day. It would be a highlight of the festive season and I’m really going to miss it.

Mary Wilson, 69, said: “My family have been going there for decades, and I’ll always have good memories of that place. It’s upsetting to see it go, but it joins the long list of pubs that have disappeared from Vauxhall.”

Kennedy Lacy, 21, added: “The great thing about the Green Man was that it has a mix of older and younger people. It was not like your typical pub where only students go, or where only old men go."

From fire fighting to car washing JOSH DOHERTY visits the charity car wash hoping to assist colleagues with injuries

L

iverpool firefighters tackled dirty cars as well as fires this weekend as they took part in their annual charity car wash.

The Firefighters, from the Kirkdale and Aintree stations, were raising money for the Firefighters Charity which helps fund the rehabilitation centres for those who have suffered injury in the line of duty.

Both stations taking part enjoyed a positive public response to the fundraiser.

Stephen Iddon, from the Kirkdale station, told Liverpool Life: “Many firefighters get injured while on duty and will need some rehabilitation, at one of the rehabilitation centres, and these need funding.

“Anybody could get injured, people we know have been injured. It could really happen to anybody on duty.

When they do they go up to the rehabilitation centre it’s really valuable. It ensures our firefighters make a full recovery and get back to work quicker too.

“There are some in Cumbria, some down South, where they go to have treatment or physio in the hope that they can recuperate from the injury they’ve suffered.

“We normally do this once a year and it’s usually well-coordinated with a good turnout. The cadets get involved and are a big help.”

The carwash has been an annual feature amongst the Merseyside Fire Services calendar for many years and Mr Iddon is optimistic that the amount raised this year could be as big as ever.

He told Liverpool Life: “People are really generous and while we don’t yet know the exact amount we’ve raised, it’s so far looking good.

"Considering where we are, we get good numbers coming through to get their car washed so it’s always a good day.

“We don’t really set ourselves any financial targets, we just see what we get at the end of the day and whatever we get we’re extremely grateful for.”

READY: Firefighters from Kirkdale and Aintree unite with the aim of raising money for their injured colleagues © Josh Doherty

Life|Arts|7

LIFE EXTRA helen’s step into politics

Hamish Ellwood speaks to Helen Dodd about her life in politics since LJMU

A Helen at work campaigning

‘I joined the Labour Party for something to do after I graduated. I thought it would be interesting to volunteer as I was a Labour supporter’

fter graduating in the summer of 2011, former journalism student Helen Dodd landed on her feet.

Helen has worked as constituency assistant to Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South, from November 2011.

Although having never previously thought about working for an MP, Helen always had an interest in writing current affairs and being creative.

She told Liverpool Life: “I was always quite good at English and enjoyed it more than other subjects. I had the idea from when I was quite small.”

After graduating, Helen decided to join the Labour Party for something to do.

It was Helen’s journalistic sixth sense, which got her a foot in the door to secure her

current role.

After joining the Labour Party, she decided to interview Alison McGovern as a story for the JMU Journalism website. She said: “I thought it would be a good idea to do an interview with her as I still wanted to be involved with the website and I think Alison had many interesting things to share with local readers as she was born in Merseyside.”

As a Constituency Assistant, Helen’s job entails a wide range of tasks: “I do a lot of work with the local press for Alison and work with her to handle the local communications with the media.

“I also take a lead on Alison’s constituency diary appointments. As well as this I assist on a daily basis with constituents who need Alison’s assistance with a wide

POLITICS: Helen’s boss Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South

range of issues. Some can be very serious and need a high level of professionalism and understanding. I also attend meetings with Alison to assist her with note-taking.”

Although the career paths seem worlds apart, the two have many similarities and every day Helen now utilises the skills she learned from studying journalism. Skills such as having a diverse and through research method are essential in Helen’s line of work, as Alison relies on her for a number of daily tasks.

Current affairs has always been something in which Helen has had an interest.

There are many transferable skills learned from journalism - shorthand is invaluable for note-taking and any situation where you do not have a recording device.

Working in politics is a very buzzy and fast-moving

environment; no two days are ever the same, just as in journalism.

Helen said: “When you work for an MP, if she has a TV interview or any type of interview she needs briefing on absolutely everything.

Any question might be asked, so research skills are very important.

“Working for an MP is obviously a very interesting job. You get an inside look at the workings of politics and I have met a number of high-profile people working within the world of politics.

“I remember when I first started my job I got starstruck if I spoke to MPs, but the longer you work in politics the more you develop a level of professionalism and realise that everyone in politics are colleagues working together and you need to be professional.”

Funny and moving tale of fatherhood and family

Lauren Reece reviews Fiddler on the Roof at Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre

F

unny and moving, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ is a musical telling the story of a Jewish family forced to migrate out of Russia in the 20th century.

With the current refugee crisis in the UK and Donald Trump being the focus of the media and news, the timing could not be more perfect for the Everyman to bring back this classic ‘60s production.

This family saga sees Patrick Brennan play the

lead as Tevye, a father of five daughters who is conflicted between his traditional views and the changing modern day.

The three-hour long performance explores issues such as arranged marriage, religion, race and family disputes whilst incorporating many memorable songs and dance performances.

Musical director and orchestrator George Francis did a fantastic job, although the singing performances

were by no means pitch perfect, this only added to the gritty nature of the play.

‘If I Were a Rich Man’ was clearly a highlight for all audience members.

Whilst the performance was lengthy, it was thoroughly enjoyable nontheless and a definite must go for any musical theatre lover.

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ is at the Everyman until Saturday March 11.

VERDICT:

A must-go for lovers of musical theatre

© Everyman Theatre

Life|Events|8

‘March of the Mods’ Amber Roberts has the low-down on the culture that’s scooting back into town, while raising money for charity

A

charity fundraiser celebrating all things Mod culture came to Liverpool on Saturday night. The ‘March of the Mods’ events have been organised up and down the country throughout March, and have allowed mod lovers to relive their youth, enjoy the eras most popular music and raise money in the process.

The event raises money for both the Teenage Cancer Trust and the Alzheimer’s Society and has been doing so since 2012. Lesley Ackers, the organiser of Liverpool’s event, told Liverpool Life: “The idea began to grow in the early part of 2012 when people started asking about March of the Mods, wanting to know what it was about.

Before you knew it there were 16 volunteers to organise and host individual legs of #MOTMs. “Each organiser planned, promoted and hosted their own night. Every event was down to the individuals as to how they wanted them to run. There has been fashion shows, scooter ride outs, raffles and auctions, but at every event there has been both original/cover bands and DJ’s entertaining everyone who has attended.”

After the first year’s events, a cheque of £50,000 was donated from March of the Mods to a young boy named Jack, who was suffering from cancer. Jack sadly passed away, but he continues to inspire the organisers yearon-year to raise even more

money for charity.

Lesley continued: “Even before March 2013 had ended there were people asking if they could organise and host an event in their towns.

The format will be exactly the same, in respect that each individual organiser will plan and host their night, but overall it is a collective of likeminded people raising money and awareness for charity”

S

aturday’s soiree took place at Tom Hall’s Tavern on Brunswick Street, and saw the venue filled to the brim. There were both tribute and original acts, including a tribute band to ‘The Jam’ called ‘The Butterfly Collective’.

Classic songs from the era were played all night long, including ‘A Town Called Malice’ and ‘That’s Entertainment’, which had the crowds dancing into the early hours.

Mark Aston, 52, from Aigburth told Liverpool Life: “This celebration and the people who organise it year on year are absolutely brilliant. I grew up as a Mod, it’s been a massive part of my life and to see a group of people altogether who share the same passion for the music, the fashion and the culture is a fantastic sight.

“It’s topped off with the fact that it’s all in the name of charity - for one night only I feel 20 years old again.”

• This year’s March of the Mods’ events continue to run over the course of the month and will come to a close at Tamworth on March 26.

FUNDRAISING: The Mods have been raising funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust and Alzheimer’s Society © Amber Roberts

Life|Fitness|9

Moving Mamas!

Paige Freshwater reports on how a group in Liverpool is encouraging mothers to lead an active and healthy lifestyle

W

ith old wives’ tales pressing on the minds of expecting mothers, many women are uncertain about whether exercise helps or hinders their baby’s development.

Robert Lunn, 33, creator and project manager of Mamafit, is encouraging mothers to lead an active lifestyle, and is offering free pregnancy and mother exercise classes as part of Healthy Liverpool.

Founding Mamafit in 2011, Mr Lunn wants to promote pregnancy exercises and said: “Women need to know that a fit and active lifestyle benefits both mother and baby.”

He told Liverpool Life: “The danger is that being inactive over a pregnancy could stretch over into motherhood, and that is not good for the mother’s health.

“When the mother does not have anyone else to look after the baby, that inactivity continues because she may not be able to go back to the gym to exercise. She needs to look after her child and sometimes she can forget

#1 in Merseyside for mums about herself. It could be a two or three year period of no physical activity.”

Having worked in the fitness industry for 14years, Mr Lunn said he noticed a trend in the number of women cancelling their gym memberships after becoming pregnant.

His six-week exercise and lifestyle course, which takes place at Liverpool Women’s Hospital and children’s centres across the city, aims to remind women about their own physical wellbeing as well as their baby’s.

The course claims to improve fitness levels, mood, sense of wellbeing, ease back pain and physically and mentally prepare women for the birthing process.

Encouraging women to lead an active lifestyle throughout motherhood, Mr Lunn also offers a free four-

Mums and babies exercising week course for parents.

The course, which is designed for children from six weeks to one year old, offers healthy eating advice, relaxation tips, simple home exercises, and helps mothers understand their body changes.

Mr Lunn added: “It is a problem that expecting mothers are told to eat for two, to not pick anything up and to not do anything. This can really damage a woman’s health.

“We really try to work on the myth-busting to give that

ACTIVE: Squatting to success

confidence that it is okay to exercise. It is about reassuring the mothers and the soon to be mothers that you are not putting the baby at any risk by exercising, as long as you follow the guidelines.

“You just need to make sure that you are not exercising at too high of a level, you are not putting any pressure or impact on the stomach area and you are keeping your posture as strong as you can.

“The risk factors and the exercises you can’t do during pregnancy are actually very small. They are thing like impacting into the stomach area, such as doing crunching exercises.

“But everything else just needs to be adapted to suit pregnancy, and that can be achieved by bringing the intensity down or just changing the technique slightly.”

Voted Merseyside’s favourite adult class on the Netmums website, Mamafit won the ‘mum’s choice’ award in 2014.

The mothers who voted for Merseyside’s Mamafit said the course reminded them about their own wellbeing and how their physical activity also benefits their baby’s development.

Mr Lunn said: “One of the other things about Mamafit is the social aspect of it because sometimes pregnancy can be

Left: Mums on the run © Mamafit® socially isolating.

“If you are the first one out of your group of friends who becomes pregnant and all of your mates are going on nights out and getting drunk, you can become quite isolated because you can’t join in on certain things that you’d want to.

“When you don’t know any other pregnant women then it can all be quite daunting. Mamafit is also a peer support group that helps women through pregnancy . “You could come along to the support group and

the classes avaialble and you could turn to someone and say that you have been having morning sickness and they might have as well. They could tell you all about their experiences and that may help you to realise everything that you are going through is normal, especially if it is your first pregnancy.

Something as simple as you looking for a pushchair, and asking someone where they got theirs.

It helps women to build friendships and talk about their pregnancy.”

© Mamafit®

Four tips for exercising mums 1. Do 30 minutes of exercise a day

2. Drink plenty of water and other fluids

warm 3. Always up before , and exercising n cool dow ds afterwar

4.Try pelvic floor exercises to strengthen your muscles to avoid incontinence

Life|Sport|10

Finish line in touching distance HOLLIE HAYES reports on the success of Liverpool John Moores Women’s rugby union, as they reached the final of the North Conference cup

Photos © Katie Jenkins, Facebook

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iverpool John Moores Women’s rugby union are within touching distance of the Northern Conference cup after their 67-5 win in the semi-final match against the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN).

Though their toughest match yet, the Rangers held their ground and displayed their typical brute force within the first 10 minutes as Hannah Nolan ran rings around the outside wing and touched down in the left hand corner.

Following their dominant start LJMU proved unstoppable after some impressive interplay between centres Sarah Gethin and Susan Deacon and full back Miriam Warren as they swiftly brought the ball from the restart kick with a show of clean hands. Susan Deacon then pushed the score to 12-0. Maddy Gresty then converted the try.

UCLAN hammered away at each ruck but the Rangers used their backline to their advantage and put the gas on after fly half Harriet Manning created space between UCLAN’s powerful defensive line. On two occasions in the first half Manning was able to dot through the defence after some tough phases from both teams and snatch two extra tries.

Both teams enjoyed plenty of possession in the opening exchanges. However Lancashire were heavier in the rucks and therefore sustained a number of turnover balls at the breakdown.

At half time the score stood at 43-0 with additional tries from Maddy Gresty (2) and Chloe Garner (1), and three conversions from Gresty.

After half time UCLAN came back with a vengeance and put LJMU’s defence to the test as they began to smash through the Rangers’ line and gain several metres of ground at a time.

After a long period of pressure UCLAN had the first points of the second half putting the score at 5-43.

The Rangers still showed masses of determination, stealing an extra four tries in the second half and two conversions before the final whistle, with tries from Sarah Gethin as a result of a series of support offloads between centres, Manning claiming a hat trick, and Chloe Garner snatching 10 points by herself; the first from a pick- andgo at the base of the scrum and the second after stream-rolling full-pace from behind her own 10m line.

The final score was 67-5 and LJMU WRU will take on University of Leeds in the final of the Nothern Conference cup on March 8.

Everton close to sealing new deal for striker Lukaku

By LEWIS JENNINGS

DEAL: Romelu Lukaku © Football.ua/Wikimedia Commons

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku is on the verge of signing a new five-year deal with the club.

The Belgian ace is expected to earn an excess of £100,000 a week and will be tied to the Blues until 2022.

His previous deal was due to expire in the summer of 2019, but having already netted 19 goals in

the Premier League during this campaign, Everton are looking to act fast to secure his long-term services.

There have been whispers of negotiations since well before Christmas with the forward’s agent Mino Raiola spurning rumours by insisting a new contract was close to being agreed.

Evertonians were delighted with the news, with some

taking to social media to express their views.

StreetEndBlue tweeted: “While other clubs have mediocre and fading strikers, we have one of the best around scoring goals for us.

Rom is the best goalscorer we’ve had for years and we need to build a side around him.”

The Toffees’ star striker will apparently reject offers

from Chelsea and abroad in order to commit his future to Goodison Park.

Lukaku has a history with Chelsea, after the club signed him from Anderlecht in 2011. He struggled to find his feet in the capital and was loaned out to both West Bromwich Albion and then Everton during the 2013-14 season, before signing for the latter in 2014 for £28m.

Life|Sport|11

Non League sides in action

By CONNOR BENNETT

City of Liverpool FC travel to face Silsden AFC as they look to continue their unbeaten run, which has now reached six games.

After their 5-0 victory at home to Chadderton FC at the weekend, club chairman Paul Manning spoke of his team’s targets for this season. He told Liverpool Life: “The minimum target was to keep the season going and at least get into the play-offs.”

COLFC now sit second in the North West Counties League Division One table, firmly in an automatic promotion place.

Marine FC take on Ashton United at The Marine Travel Arena on Saturday in the Evo-Stik League Northern Premier.

The Mariners are looking to pull away from the bottom of the table following a run of eight games without a win.

The Crosby-based side will be buoyed from their past successes against The Robins, with them finding the net four times in each of their last two games.

City of Liverpool FC putting ladies first

By ANDREW LIVINGSTON club only announced its deCity of Liverpool FC (COLFC) have announced their intention to field a ladies side for next season.

The club, whose first team is currently taking part in its first-ever competitive season, will also look to enter an under-21 outfit if the Liverpool County FA decide to start a league.

Club chairman Paul Manning says that all concentration is on the first team for the time being.

He told Liverpool Life: “All of our focus at the moment is on the first team. The reserves have been a bit thin for us to be honest, they haven’t had a lot of support, but that is going to be changing next season.

“Next season we possibly might have a ladies team. So we are working top down: first team, reserves, ladies and we may well go down to under-21s as there is talk of a Liverpool County under-21 league.”

Currently sharing the Delta Taxis Stadium with Bootle FC, the community-shared

cision to form a team back in September 2015.

Manning stated that the club is currently in the process of finding a ground of their own.

He said: “We have a very, very good private sale option which I think before the end of the season we will probably move on.

“We can start working on that now, but we are waiting for communication from other stakeholders who have better options for us if they can make that happen.”

As the final run-in of the footballing calendar draws to a close, City of Liverpool FC are looking to round off a successful debut season after their formation last year.

Following their 5-0 victory at home to Chadderton FC at the weekend, COLFC sit second in the North West Counties League Division One table in an automatic promotion spot.

‘The Purps’ will look to gain automatic promotion this year to develop the club and also have their eye on moving into their own stadium.

TEAMS: City of Liverpool FC line up against Chadderton FC

ORGANISER: Club Chairman Paul Manning oversaw COLFC’s victory at the Delta Taxis Stadium at the weekend Photo © Andrew Livingston

Bellew could call it a day following win

By CONNOR BENNETT

SUSPENDED: Tyson Fury © Mac Dreamstate/Wikimedia

Fury return in doubt

By CONNOR BENNETT Tyson Fury remains suspended by the British Boxing Board of Control despite hinting at his comeback.

The former World Heavyweight Champion said he would return to the sport in May, close to 18 months after beating Wladimir Klitschko, but remains under investigation by UK Anti-Doping.

Since his stunning points victory, Fury has relinquished all of the titles he won in November 2015, including the WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight titles.

The self-proclaimed ‘Gypsy King’ has teased a bout with Tony Bellew following his win over David Haye, but unless Fury is able to get a fight commissioned by a foreign boxing board it is unlikely to go ahead.

Photo © Andrew Livingston

BATTLE: Tony Bellew, right, beat David Haye at London’s O2 Arena.

Photo by Lawrence Lustig © Matchroom Boxing

Tony Bellew says he is considering retirement following his surprise victory over bitter rival David Haye at London’s O2 Arena on Saturday.

The WBC Cruiserweight World Champion, 34, hinted at his retirement, although he admitted that an offer for one further fight could be too lucrative to turn down.

Bellew told the BBC: “I don’t know how many times more I can put my body and family through this.”

Wavertree-born Bellew defied the odds to beat the

Hayemaker in a British grudge match.

Many experts backed Haye to win quite easily, but Bellew shocked the pundits with an 11th round stoppage.

A sharp left hook to Haye sent the former World Heavyweight Champion through the ropes and into a row of cameras at ringside.

As Haye stumbled back into the ring, his corner man Shane McGuigan threw in the towel.

He was also asked whether the Haye bout would be his last.

He continued: “It’s an option. It’s something I’m

thinking about.”

While the WBC Cruiserweight World Champion could walk away from the sport, Bellew called out the unbeaten WBC World Heavyweight Champion, Deontay ‘the Bronze Bomber’ Wilder after his win on Saturday.

Bellew has also been called out by fellow British heavyweight, Dillian Whyte.

Whyte, who fights out of Brixton, London, called Bellew a “Fake Heavyweight” and said that the pair should fight for the right to face the Alabamabased boxer Wilder.

Veteran ‘Dirty Derry’ throws in towel

By CONNOR BENNETT Liverpool’s Derry Mathews has called time on his boxing career, announcing his retirement from the sport following his defeat to Ohara Davies on Saturday night.

Mathews revealed the defeat was one too many and confirmed he is retiring from the sport on his Twitter account.

Following the defeat, the

33-year-old tweeted: “Kills me to write this but 15 years as a pro fighter has caught up with me. Message to young up and coming fighters, enjoy your journey.”

Mathews bows out having amassed a record of 38-12-2 and leaves a lasting legacy, having earned the respect of fans and fighters alike.

Since his announcement, he has received plenty of supportive tweets, congratulating him on his career.

Tony Bellew tweeted: “What you have done is unbelievable and you are amongst the best our city has EVER produced! I salute you my friend! #TrueWarrior” Former Everton striker Francis Jeffers said: “Sad to see my mate @derrymathews23 hang the gloves up. Unbelievable career, he is a proper warrior. Good luck in the next chapter lad.”

Huyton born, Premier League midfielder Joey Bar-

ton also tweeted Mathews: “@ derrymathews23 all the best mate. A great career, some fantastic fights and never once let anyone down.

Enjoy the next part of your journey.”

While leader of Matchroom Boxing and Mathews’ promoter Eddie Hearn added: “@derrymathews23 thank you for all the entertainment you given British fight fans over the years - we wish you a happy retirement mate.”

CHAMPION: Derry Mathews celebrates winning the interim WBA lightweight world title in 2015 Photo © Sean Purvis

Liverpool

LifeSPORT 8 March 2017

© Sport Start Academy

GETTING ACTIVE: Top and above, schools join in the ‘Kin-Ball’ fun at LJMU’s IM Marsh Campus © Sport Start Academy is that it has been so successful with Special Educational Needs (SEN) children.

“There are a lot of SEN children out there who are reluctant to join in any activity,

but as soon as they see this ball, their face lights up and they’re more than happy to get involved.

“Kin-Ball allows for a level playing field. You usually

get those who excel at sport and whatever sport they play, they’ll always be the better one and others are left behind and that’s not the case with this game.”

Plucky Rovers fail to narrow gap at top

By JAMES JONES

Tranmere Rovers failed to keep the gap closed on league leaders Lincoln City after a devastating 2-1 loss to Barrow Town last night.

Tranmere managed to break the deadlock on the 33rd minute after an excel-

lent 25-yard volley from Andy Cook, who scored his 19th league goal of the campaign, and almost added a 20th to his season just before the break.

The second half was more widely contested as both teams had opportunities to score, with Rovers keeper Davies denying a 25-yard

effort by Matty Platt.

Cook also missed the opportunity to double the lead with a wide header, while Norwood had an effort saved by Jon Flatt.

However, the home team managed to pull a goal back on the 64th minute after substitute Ihui Effiong poked the ball into the net

after a free kick was swung into the Tranmere box.

Barrow then took the lead just six minutes later after Jordan Williams fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner from 20 yards away.

This left the 266 travelling Tranmere fans utterly devastated.

Despite last ditch efforts

the team went home empty handed and now lie six points behind Lincoln, who overcame Braintree on the night.

They will now hope to bounce back on Saturday March 11 when they will travel to Macclesfield in their semi-final clash in the Buildbase FA trophy.

Bellew hints at retirement

Ladies team for COLFC

© Andrew Livingston

Liverpool John Moores Sport Start Academy is delivering a new and inclusive activity to school children across the region.

‘Kin-Ball’ is a growing sport that promotes important social values for societies and co-founder Daniel Grace is making major inroads into the South Liverpool area.

Each game has three periods that typically last between seven and 15 minutes long, depending on the age of the participants. Teams are composed of four players with each team wearing a different colour jersey.

When the game starts, the player at the centre throws the ball up while yelling the word “Omnikin” and the corresponding colour of a team.

The named team must catch the ball before it touches the floor.

The catching team must

have three players holding the ball from below whilst the remaining player stands.

It is the remaining player’s job to then hit the ball with his/her hands while clearly yelling “Omnikin” and the colour of another team which will then run and catch the ball. If the named team does not prevent the ball from hitting the floor, the other two teams are each awarded one point.

The game originated in Quebec, Canada, and the inspiration behind it came after creator Mario Demers attended a concert where the audience seemed more interested in the floating props (shaped like a giant beach ball) rather than the music.

Daniel Grace, a sports coach at the academy, told Liverpool Life: “The brilliant thing about it is that it is a game for everyone, small kids and even those in secondary school. Even more amazing

Final push for LJMU women’s rugby

© Lawrence Lustig / Matchroom Boxing

By JESSICA HARRIS

© Katie Jenkins / Facebook

GIANT BALL IS FUN FOR ALL

Inside Sport