Living Wirral Magazine

Living

WIRRAL ISSUE 2 | SEPTEMBER 2015

SPOTLIGHT ON

TERRI DWYER

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH

LUCA VESTE DON’T WORRY

BEE HAPPY LOOKING AFTER

OUR BEE POPULATION

BUY LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL

JOIN OUR CAMPAIGN #BUYLOCALWIRRAL

THIS MAGAZINE IS FREE WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS

WWW.LIVINGWIRRAL.COM

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Living

CONTENTS

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PAGE CONTENTS 5 7 9 11 13 14 16 19 20 23 24 26 27 31 32 34 35 36 38

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LIVING HOME MANS BEST FRIEND ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING LET’S TALK VOIP TALKING RUBBISH TO BEE OR NOT TO BEE RUNNING IN FLIP FLOPS LIVING FEMALE CRIME DOESN’T PAY LET’S STEP UP TO THE PLATE LIVING GADGETS A POTENTIAL REVOLUTION LIVING MALE WINE O’CLOCK HOW DO YOU TAKE YOURS? COOK WITH ROB THUNDER PUMPKERLICIOUS BUY LOCAL, SUPPORT LOCAL SPOTLIGHT ON TERRI DWYER

Living

32 Editor: Diane Tremarco Email: diane@livingwirral.com Sales Director: Jade Tremarco Email: jade@livingwirral.com Logistics Director: Zak Sliwka Email: zak@livingwirral.com Publisher: Mouse Media Website: www.mousemediastudio.com Website: www.livingwirral.com

EDITOR

September is here and so is the new edition of Living Wirral Magazine.

We hope you enjoy reading your copy and we would be delighted to hear any thoughts you may have on its content. If you fancy sending us a photo of you reading the magazine, we will happily share it via our social media platforms.

We would like to thank our advertisers for their support in our first edition under our family ownership. We will continue to support you through our website and social media channels.

Keep your eye on our Buy Local Campaign as we strive to encourage our readers to spend as much money as possible on local produce.

Watch out too for news of a sister publication, a what’s on guide coming your way for the Christmas period via getoutmore.me Our next edition will be with you at the end of November/beginning of December, in time to showcase plenty of Christmas goodies.

Disclaimer

While precautions have been take to ensure the accuracy of the contents of our magazine, neither the editors, publishers or its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise there from. Living Wirral reserves the right to edit comments or choose not to publish selected comments, whether in printed, mobile or digital format. No part of any of our publication, whether in print or digital may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

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GIFTS FOR YOUR PERSONAL PALACE MIX AND MATCH

1. Julianne Antiqued Leathed £599 TESCO.COM/DIRECT | 2. Kate Light £299 ELAINECUNNINGHAM.CO.UK | 3. Sheep Cushion £15 VERY.CO.UK 4. City Lights Globe £100 THEGREATGIFTCOMPANY.CO.UK | 5. Scented Candle in Tin £9.50 THE DRAWING ROOM, OXTON | 6. Dog Cushion £7 WILKO.COM | 7. Gallery Clock (large) £139.50 THE DRAWING ROOM, OXTON | 8. Layla Console Table £599 ELAINECUNNINGHAM.CO.UK

6 MISTER CLEAN AND TIDY Mr Clean and Tidy offers a professional, courteous and reputable cleaning service.

He will supply all cleaning products unless you have specific requirements.

From one off cleans to deep cleans Zak covers it all.

Zak is fully insured and a key holding service is available on request.

DOMESTIC CLEANING CARPET CLEANING

END OF TENANCY CLEANS WIRRAL AREA ONLY

Call Zak 07803 593 372

TOTAL DECORATING 40+ Years experience Interior and exterior decorating No job too small Free,no obligation quotes Quality work assured Previous clients include: The Viscount Lever Hulme Estate, Thornton Hough

Testimonials are available on request Mr Clean and Tidy @mrcleanandtidy

T: 07835 129 966

E: total.decorating1@outlook.com www.mistercleanandtidy.com

Elaine Cunningham Design Studio offers a complimentary curtain measuring service and professional design consultations from only £99 per room.

ELAINE CUNNINGHAM DESIGN STUDIO

Our experienced Interior designers will advise on curtain styles, wallpaper, paint colours, and can source and supply all aspects of furniture, lighting and accessories.

We pride ourselves on our customer service and work to any brief or budget within a given timescale.

Please call the Design Studio on 0151 494 1555 for any further information | www.elainecunningham.co.uk

7 ith w t u o b a d n a t Ou

MANS BEST FRIEND We love our dogs in the UK don’t we? They become part of the family; share good and bad times with us, comfort us and keep us warm on those winter nights and, of course, wreak havoc when the postman dares to knock at your door! That aside, there’s definitely a reason for referring to them as ‘mans best friend’.

Thingwall Pet Services, are focused on providing quality Pet Care with the highest levels of customer satisfaction and they will do everything they can to meet your expectations.

Nicky, the owner, is also the proud owner of two lovely Bichon Frise; Milo & Poppy - and the newest addition to the family Binky the Shorkie.

Nicky’s website is full of testimonials from dog lovers who have tried and loved her services. Whatever the reason, whether you are on holiday, at an all-day event, working or just don’t have enough hours in the day - contact Thingwall Pet Services to put your mind at ease.

Thingwall Pet Services Phone: 07725595796 Email: nicola@thingwallpetservices.co.uk Web: www.thingwallpetservices.co.uk Hours of Operation Mon-Fri: 9-5pm Sat: 9-5pm

Wirral is home to thousands of dogs, and there are now so many dog-friendly places to visit, here are a few we’ve found: The Marino Lounge 5 Marine Point, Kings Parade, Wallasey, Wirral.

CH45 2PB The Farmers Arms 167-169 Hillbark Rd, Frankby, Wirral.

CH48 1NJ The Wheatsheaf Raby Mere Road, Raby Village, Wirral.

CH63 4JH Jug & Bottle Mount Avenue, Heswall, Wirral.

CH60 4RH

Fox and Hounds 107 Barnston Road, Barnston Village, Wirral.

CH61 1BW Irby Mill Mill Lane, Greasby, Wirral.

CH49 3NT Barking Mad Cafe Hillbark Road, Frankby, Wirral.

CH48 1NP GJ’s Cafe Thurstaston Country Park Station Road, Thurstaston, Wirral.

CH61 0HN

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WE MANUFACTURE AND SUPPLY DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS TO BOTH THE TRADE AND THE PUBLIC

WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE CUTTING EDGE? WE HAVE 35 YEARS IN BUILDING TRADE WHICH WE CAN APPLY TO OUR INSTALLATIONS WE HAVE A TEAM OF EXPERIENCE FITTERS WE WELCOME TRADE ENQUIRIES FREE ESTIMATES WE SUPPLY TRIPLE GLAZING WE SUPPLY THE LATEST ENERGY SAVING GLASS WE SUPPLY THE LATEST BESPOKE COLOURED WINDOWS WE SUPPLY FRONT DOORS, BACK DOORS AND FRENCH DOORS

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9 CLEAN YOUR HOUSE AND PROTECT YOUR PLANET

WE LOOK AT THE ECO FRIENDLY WAY TO CLEAN YOUR HOUSE The majority of us are aware of the impact popular cleaning products have on our planet. Instead of the particles reflecting the heat from the sun back into outer space, they absorb it, trapping it in the atmosphere and cause the earths temperature to rise. Global warming.

We can all play a part in helping the greenhouse effect, one such way would be to replace our daily cleaning products with more natural substitutes.

Carpet Stains: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Let it sit for several minutes, clean with a brush or sponge using warm soapy water Chopping Block Cleaner: Rub a slice of lemon across a chopping block to disinfect the surface. If there are any stains, squeeze the lemon juice on it, leave for 10 minutes and then wipe clean.

Esential Store Cupboard: Baking soda – cleans, deodorises, scours Lemon – effective against most household bacteria White vinegar – cuts grease, removes mildew, odours, some stains and wax build-up Isopropyl alcohol – disinfectant Corn starch – clean windows, polish furniture, shampoo carpets and rugs

Coffee and tea stains: Stains at the bottom of a cup can be removed by applying vinegar to a sponge and wiping clean.

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Wood – apply a thin coat of 1:1 vegetable oil and vinegar and rub in well

Combinations of the basic products listed above can provide less harmful substances for many commercial home products and they’re also less expensive. The formulas listed below are good for safe and alternative home care products.

•

Brick and stone tiles – mix 1 cup white vinegar in four litres water, rinse

Air freshener: • • • • • • •

Houseplants like aloe vera, spider plants, jade plants etc clean the air

Prevent cooking odours by simmering vinegar (1 tbsp in 1 cup water) on the stove while cooking.

Smells such as fish and onions off utensils and cutting boards, wipe with vinegar first and then wash in soapy water

Baking soda or vinegar with lemon juice in small dishes absorbs odours around the house

Grind up a slice of lemon in your bin and keep it smelling fresh Place bowls of fragrant dried herbs and flowers in room

Simmer water and either cinnamon or mint on the stove

Bathroom Mould: Mix one-part hydrogen peroxide (3%) with two parts water in a spray bottle.

Spray on tile grout and wait at least one hour before rinsing or using the shower.

Floor Cleaner and polish: •

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Painted wood– mix 1 teaspoon washing soda into four litres of hot water with clear water

Vinyl and lino – mix 1 cup of vinegar and a few drops of baby oil in 1 gallon of warm water. Use sparingly on Lino.

Stickers on walls (for mums) Sponge vinegar over them several times, wait 15 minutes then rub off the stickers. This also works for stubborn price tags on tools and products.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner: ¼ cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar – pour into the basin. Scrub with a brush and since. Adding lemon juice will also help Water rings on wooden surfaces: It is the result of moisture that is trapped under the topcoat, but not the finish.

Apply toothpaste or mayonnaise to a damp cloth and rub into the ring. Don’t rub too vigorously. Once ring is removed, buff the wood surface.

Window Cleaner: 2 tsp of white vinegar with 1 litre of warm water. Use cotton cloth or newspaper to clean. Only use black and white newspapers. If the sun is on them or they are warm streaks will show on drying so wait until it’s cool.Don’t deviate from the recipe either as the window will go cloudy.

MISTER CLEAN AND TIDY CALL ZAK 07803 593 372 Now offers eco friendly house cleaning - please ask for details

10 Whether you are a major retail brand, a large public service establishment, or a local high street shop, the signage you employ says as much about you as the products or services you offer.

Our Services

At NW Signs, we understand this better than most. What sets us apart is our willingness to explore the vision and broader objectives behind your signage needs. Not just the products or services you offer, but the very values you wish to project, whether through your brand or your reputation.

Project management - We set design, installation and bugetary perameters and coordinate from inception to completion

The greater insight we have into what it is you are trying to achieve, the better able we are to apply our specialist knowledge in the delivery of a successful sign solution. In commercial applications, we recognise the need to work within your overall brand and communications strategy, delivering maximum impact while also reinforcing the image and profile of your business.

In essence, we see our role as much more than just sign makers and suppliers. We have the capabilities and resources to provide innovative and bespoke solutions that will optimise your specifications in terms of quality, value and durability.

Site surveys - We observe, evaluate, analyse, listen and interpret, culminating in a precise signage brief.

Design - We advise on concept, technology and material choice to produce a sign custom-made to your specification Manufacturer - Production capabilities include metal and acrylic fabrication, glass work, routing, engraving, illumination, digital printing, vinyl graphics and lettering, signwriting and final assembly.

Installation - Whether for an individual sign or a large-scale rollout, we operate to the same exacting standards.

Maintenance - Once signs are in place, we can provide maintenance programmes to optimise their performance and protect your financial investment.

Our client base has organically grown to include major brands in the motor, property, retail, leisure, financial, legal, education, and service sectors.

W S i g |n s449 | 4 4Cleveland 9 C l eve l a n dStre S t reet, e t, Birkenhead.

Birke nhe a d. CH 41 4J4JW W | T:| T: 0151 558558 1661 NW NSigns CH41 0151 1661 : h e l l o @nws i g ns.co.uk || W: E: Ehello@nwsigns.co.uk W: www.nwsigns.co.uk www.nwsigns.co.uk

11 LET’S TALK VOIP

INTERNET PHONES AND THEIR BENEFITS What is VOIP? VOIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. Essentially this means your calls are routed over the internet rather than over the BT telephone lines.

Because of this call costs tend to be cheaper and calls between VOIP phones are free regardless of where they are geographically.

Become a Protection Adviser (self-employed basis) Imagine being in control of your working life. A career with Owl Financial offers you the chance to work flexibly in a way that suits you and your lifestyle, in a role that rewards you for each and every one of your successes.

Protection Adviser roles If you’re interested in working with Owl Financial, we’d love to hear from you.

Simply fill in the form on our website and we’ll respond to your enquiry within three working days.

Tel. 01273 876326 Email. enquiries@owlfinancial.co.uk www.owlfinancial.co.uk

Myriad

MORTGAGE SERVICES LTD

How do you use it?

For very little money you can buy a USB headset and download a softphone program to your PC or laptop but most people prefer an actual phone; in that case you would normally get one preconfigured from your VOIP supplier. Simply plug it into your router and hey presto you would have a fully functioning phone.

Can I keep my number?

Yes if you already have a number, you can port your number to a VOIP supplier very easily and it normally takes about two weeks. You can move to a different area code or even a different country and keep the number.

Is it reliable?

If it is setup properly, yes. If your internet goes off it is true your VOIP phones won’t work, though a good system should provide ‘failover’, so in this situation each handset is twinned with the users mobile so calls fall over to the mobiles.

Key Advantages • Low cost of setup – Just buy a handset and go, which is attractive for start-ups • Scalability- If the start-up grows they can just plug in more phones, even if they work across multiple premises in different cities it makes no difference and all internal calls are free even if the two users are in different countries!

• Flexibility – If the company grows, for example if a start-up moves out of home into a business premise, they just take the phone with them and plug it in at the new office and their number has come with them • Feature Rich – You get all the features you would on a high end system, voicemail to email, calls menus (press one for this etc) and much more without the huge upfront cost. You can even pay for more features like click to dial from your PC as a low cost monthly bolt on

ARE YOU BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME? ARE YOU LOOKING TO MOVE HOME? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR PEACE OF MIND? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A FAST MORTGAGE DECISION?

If yes, call me on: 07806 722005 David Forrest, CeMAP Mortgage Advisor 433 Liverpool Road, Liverpool, L36 8HT

Myriad Mortgage Services Ltd is an appointed representative of First Complete who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

We will charge a broker fee of between £250 payable on application. The amount we will charge is dependent on the amount of research and administration that is required.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

T: 0845 8621127 F: 01244 318454 M: 07801 054156

12 Upton Village

143 Ford Road, Upton, Wirral. CH49 0XB | Email uptonvillageflooring@yahoo.co.uk

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13 TALKING RUBBISH! Where you take centre stage A striking waterfront wedding venue.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A NEW BRIGHTONER DAVE PEDDIE

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The Floral Pavilion Theatre presents a truly unique setting for an unforgettable wedding day.

TUE

Call 0151 666 0000 now to book a viewing.

Download our weddings brochure

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Sunday was busy in New Brighton, and summer holidays have begun. We wander down to the beach first thing with picker and bags. As expected the haul of plastic and glass bottles, empty crisp packets, soiled nappies, odd items of clothing, drinks cans, beach toy netting and baby wipes was about average, which means there was a lot! There is some dog poo as well. Note to self... Don’t pick up dog poo. Much too squishy!

We wander down for an evening walk. Just want to have a nonpicking walk and watch the sun setting. But some folks have had a beach party on the rocks near the Fort. There is an empty box of three beef and onion pies, plus 11 empty glass bear bottles scattered around, five drinks cans, two polystyrene fast food containers. They also left four single use plastic bags, which was very considerate of them. We have to fill their bags with their litter and put it in the bulk bin nearby. Something they could have done themselves, but didn’t. Why is that?

For an unexplained reason, We couldn’t face going for a walk this evening.

Watched an interesting YouTube video about how plastic gets into the food chain, and how we can end up eating it. That is one of the reasons we are part of The New Brighteners Beach Litter Picking Team, to try and stop all this stuff getting on to our dinner plates.

Fish and Chips and a side of plastic anyone? The other reason, the most important reason, is that New Brighton has some great beaches and coastline. Keeping it litter free is a mammoth job, but at least it’ll be nice for everyone to enjoy.

It was quite a high tide last night, so the beach has been well washed, but of course that means a lot of plastic has been swept into the sea. Perhaps one day it will end up as part of one of the five enormous islands of plastic waste in our oceans? The Marine Lake has its own plastic Island which is difficult to clear, depending upon which way the wind blows. A couple of the team got out there early in the morning and dragged out plastic bottles, polystyrene, weed tangled with discarded crabbing-line, plastic bags and a few unrecognisable things, all mixed in with seaweed. It looked nice when it was done though. It’s reckoned that every bit of plastic ever made is still in existence. Seems that a good proportion of that is in New Brighton!

It’s another warm and sunny day and the visitors stream in. As usual there is nowhere for many of them to park. No-one seemed to think that the new development would mean more cars and more litter! There are not enough bins either. We meet up with our group for one of our regular Saturday beach cleans. There is a great camaraderie because we all know we are doing something good, even when you feel rubbish about it. We collect 11 big bags of litter.

Well done everyone. We arrive home tired but pleased and the cup of tea is very welcome!

Day of rest? Day of worship? Day of recreation? Day of, well... not litter picking. A day-of-feet-up is well in order!

Sunday was busy in New Brighton ..............

Whilst the redevelopment of New Brighton has bought a raft of positive benefits; economic, social and recreational. Sadly it has also bought a raft of rubbish... continued on www.livingwirral.com

DON’T WORRY

BEE HAPPY! TOP TIP:

Raw honey is a wellknown healing remedy for minor burns and abrasions, and can provide soothing relief for colds and flu.

TO BEE OR NOT TO BEE?

BEES ARE DECLINING AT A DISTRESSING RATE; THEIR DECLINE WILL THREATEN OUR GLOBAL AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SUPPLIES. MANY OF THE WORLD’S FRUIT AND VEGETABLES RESOURCES WOULD NEVER MAKE IT TO MARKET WITHOUT BEES AS OVER 70% OF THESE CROPS ARE BEE-POLLINATED. HONEYBEES ARE VITAL PARTS OF OUR ECOSYSTEM, WE NEED THEM TO KEEP OUR CROPS AND OUR EARTH HEALTHY. SADLY, THEIR NUMBERS HAVE BEEN DECREASING BY THE BILLIONS. WHAT IS POLLINATION?

Pollination, by definition, ‘is the transfer of pollen from the anthers of a flower to the stigma of the same flower or of another flower. Pollination is a prerequisite for fertilization: the fusion of nuclei from the pollen grain with nuclei in the ovule.

Fertilization allows the flower to develop seeds.’

Some crops like avocados, apples and almonds would not exist without pollination, and since the average honeybee can visit 2,000+ flowers in one day, they greatly increase the chances of a plant producing fruit or vegetables.

While bees are pollinating they are also collecting pollen for themselves, which they take back to the hive with them and it serves as a main source of protein in their diet. It can even make its way into their honey.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP THE BEE POPULATION?

Bees are attracted to certain plants. Thankfully, if you plant these in your garden, wasps, hornets and yellow jackets tend to avoid them; they aren’t pollinators. What kind of plants?

Well, there are several you can chose from; Honeysuckle, Marigolds, Lavender, Sage, Sunflowers, Dahlias, Thyme, Primroses, Violets and many more.

Planting a pollinator garden really helps the

bees as they rely on nectar and pollen for their survival. When flowers are scarce, bees can starve so by keeping and maintaining a bee-friendly garden you are helping the bee population grow again. Just make sure that it is pesticide free. Bees retain the pesticides in the pollen and transfer it to the honey. We eat the honey.

and is unpasteurised, undiluted and unheated which means it retains all the antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and delicious flavour.

Not only does honey do all that, but eating local honey can actually build up a tolerance to the local pollen, and therefore decrease your chances of suffering from hay fever.

Please see below for local suppliers

HOW IS HONEY GOOD FOR YOU?

I’M AFRAID OF BEES. HOW SHOULD I BEHAVE AROUND THEM?

Honey is not only a beautiful, sumptuous, sweet and sticky food, it is also an incredible antiseptic, antioxidant and cleanser. It’s properties are invaluable to our body and health, improving and hydrating your skin as a head-to-toe home remedy, healing eye infections and even curing athletes foot. It’s powerful healing attributes have been used for thousands of years to help restore health to many with disease, health disorders and general ailments.

WHY SHOULD I BUY LOCAL HONEY? WHAT’S THE HYPE ALL ABOUT?

I often hear people say that you should eat local honey. But why? What’s the difference between mass produced honey and local honey?

Local raw honey supports beekeepers’ and our earth’s health. Unlike pasteurised honey (storebought), raw honey comes straight from the hive

Stay calm. Honeybees are vegetarians! Bees have no reason and no intention to sting you after all, stinging you means their life… When people are afraid or swat at bees, they can become really confused and therefore sting you.

Wouldn’t you get angry if a giant hand wanted to swat you?

Swarms are common when colonies of honeybees have outgrown their hive. It’s a natural process so don’t be too alarmed. They are generally very gentle and pose no threat but can be made aggressive should you disturb them in any way. It’s best to contact a local authority or a company to remove them safely.

The key is to leave them alone. There’s nothing you can physically do about it without getting stung, so leave it to the professionals.

BUMBLEBEE

HONEYBEE

Fat and furry appearance

Smaller and slim appearance – like a wasp

50-400 bee capacity in the hive

50,000-60,000 bee capacity in the hive

Life span: 6months – 1 year

Life span: 3-4 years

Long tongues so feeds from a variety of flowers Queen hibernates in a hole in the ground Make a small amount of honey to sustain their colony Can sting more than once if aggravated

LOCAL BEE SUPPLIERS: DO YOU KNOW OF ANY OTHERS?

Shorter tongues so feeds from open flowers

Queen stays in the colony all year with offspring Make excess honey which beekeepers harvest to eat and sell Only sting once. They die because their stinger is barbed and stays in the skin

MERE BROOK BEES AND HONEY Mere Brook House, Thornton Common Road, Thornton Hough, Wirral, Cheshire, CH63 0LU www.merebrookbees.co.uk

HESWALL HONEY 3 Seabank Rd, Wirral, Merseyside, CH60 4SN T: 07977 689657

WIRRAL COUNTRYSIDE BEES

Moreton, CH46 7TU 07977 624 698 wirralcountrysidebees@gmail.com

flip-flops Running in high heels Geniene Azalea Reese is a recovering PR girl, Reiki level 2 practitioner, yoga and meditation loving spiritual gangster. Long time graduated from the university of life, Geniene is a teacher of the Law of Attraction and is now realising her dreams in Thailand having swapped her handbags for havianas to knock about on the beaches of Phuket

Hello and welcome to my first column for Living Wirral, I’m going to be bringing some new ideas to the table about how you can improve the feeling in your mind, body and soul.

I don’t know if you’ve heard but the word on the street is that everything is energy, and when I say the word on the street, I actually mean Einstein said it, and so if he said it, it’s got to be true, right? By everything I mean colours, words, feelings, the money in your pocket and even this magazine you are reading. Everything is on a frequency, even things like war, famine and falling in love, have a frequency they hang out on.... stay with me folks!

I’d like to talk to you about how you can use energy and its frequencies to help you manifest just about anything you want into your life. You may have heard this reffered to as ‘The Secret’ or the ‘Law of Attraction’, but unfortunately the books fail to explain a few of the key points you’re going to need to put it into practice.

Its a combination of science and quantum physics and its a very high frequency art. It actually incorporates some new groundbreaking scientific evidence - the double slit experiment, which proves that consciousness and intention effects matter. Search double slit, Greg Braden or Doctor Emoto on YouTube if you wish to research more about how human thoughts and feelings can actually effect physical matter.

Remember, I was explaining that everything is energy, well that means everything, so basically if you match the frequency of yourself to the frequency of the things that you want, you can easily attract them and I hope I can show you how.

Just a quick one - all waves vibrate at a certain frequency - you can’t tune into Juice at 96.7 yeah? You’ll get Radio City at that frequency won’t you?

Well, this is the same.

I’m going to put it bluntly, I cant really be any other way as its just not in my nature. You simply must meditate. The key to allowing your wishes into your life is that you must first have an empty mind. There’s no point trying to get the things you want whilst your worrying about paying your rent or Auntie Joan’s hospital appointment; you have to feel happy and not stressed to begin with. If you cannot do that then you need to begin to meditate.

Meditation is not easy at first so I suggest starting with a group. Imagine you have never exercised and you got to the gym, you’re going to give up aren’t you? If you look at it like a muscle, you have to keep on practicing and growing it, to become good at it, much like any skill.

You’ve mastered meditation now what? You have to know what you want, and you have to be specific, as the universe will give you exactly what you asked for. Recently, I asked for a friend from Liverpool as I was alone in Thailand, I was expecting a Scouser but I ended up with a friend from Liverpool, Australia. I’m not complaining as the friend that turned up was

great, but you catch my drift? Remember the saying be careful what you wish for? It comes in to play here!

Connect to your dream or manifestation with feeing - you must connect love and gratitude to your desire, this is the bit the scientists hate as it involves intention and we can’t yet explain that in the lab! Apologies to my scientist Dad! The law of affinity or law of attraction states that ‘like attracts like’, similar frequencies will connect. To learn about how to decipher which frequencies are high or low, give every situation a level of 1 - 13. Imagine 13 is the highest feeling you can feel, lets make 1 hate and murder, this is fine tuning how different energies are making you feel. Some things will be more obvious than others, children laughing and birds singing or swimming in the sea can be a 13. Something like drinking alcohol can be a 10 to one person who enjoys drinking socially but for an alcoholic its going to be more like a 2, it’s about recognising the feeling you get whilst in the particular activity.

Now you can use your heart to pick up levels of frequency and decide how good they are for you. It’s usually the things on a number 13 we’re looking to get - falling in love, healing, losing weight, looking younger or whatever it is you want.

Let’s say you usually walk around on level 9 but you’re doing a whole load of things to raise your frequency (I’ll come to how to do that later). You’re choosing better foods, meditating, staying away from things that you know keep your frequencies down, and moving towards the things that make your heart sing. Why? They are on the same frequency as joy, love, abundance, creating miracles, and winning the lottery, these are on level 13 because they are high frequency events.

Sometimes something will happen to you and put you on a low frequency.

Have you every had one of those days where nothing goes right? Its because you’re in a low frequency.

Ok, you’re doing it all, getting out in a nature, helping people, feeling grateful, now what? It’s time to make a wish, the perfect time is when you’re feeling the most happy, for me, I manifest at the beach. I put on my music, drink a coconut and watch the sun go down. To pull things into your current reality, you have to make sure that your desire is accepted by your mind body and spirit. If you’re wishing to be the Chief Executive of your company, you might want the money but you may not want the long hours and time away from your family, you’re going to feel resistance. If that’s the case, you’re not ready to create that. You have to make sure there is zero resistance to your feelings.

Now you know your desires, you know how to stay high

frequency, how do you get what you want!?

Step 1 - Let go of expectations and expect miracles. Don’t try and work out how you’re going to get it, the universe will present it if you’re following the steps correctly. It will not usually be in a way you would expect.

Step 2 - Feel happy. Once you get into that happy place, its time to manifest. Don’t try and manifest unless you are feeling 13!

Step 3 - Imagine yourself with the very thing you wish to have. Imagine how great its going to make you feel. Make a mini movie in your head of what will happen when you get what it is you want. Conversations you’re going to have when you get your manifestation. Think about how you are going to feel, and feel it - even if you feel silly and have to pretend! Be specific about what it is you want, and dream BIG! This is key. The magic time to hold this thought is 16 seconds, believe you have what you want.

Step 4 - Manifestations work better when you bring in other people.

Imagine yourself telling your Mum, best friend, whoever.

Step 5 - Say thank you and let it go - trust that it will come to you.

I hope everyone has fun trying these techniques, I’d love to hear any success stories on my twitter at twitter.com/geniene_azalea

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO RAISE YOUR FREQUENCY: •

Get out in nature - nature is the highest frequency!

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Put your favourite music on and dance

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Singing

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Feel gratitude, when was the last time you really felt gratitude for what you have already?

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Watch a comedy film

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Enjoy some time with your happy friends

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Play a game

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Anything that makes YOU feel happy! Laughing is the 13th frequency!

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Stay away from people that make you fee down and depressed, they are stealing your energy and lowering your frequency

18

CHECK DRESS

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55% hemp 45% organic cotton woven.

85% organic cotton 15% wool knitwear.

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44% tencel 25% organic cotton 31% rayon woven (front panel).

The garments above are from an independent fashion outfit who design and make beautiful, timeless fashion while caring for our environment. Their clothes are always produced ethically and with sustainability in mind. You can purchase these and more in the range from The Drawing Room.

The Drawing Room has been in Oxton Village since 2002 supplying vintage style home interiors alongside unique and affordable gifts for every occcassion. Owner, Jane, offers a warm welcome to anyone wanting to browse the two delightful floors.

In The Drawing Room customers will find everything from quirky pieces of furniture, lamps, soft furnishings, photo frames, and candles with gifts for the gardener, newly weds, newborns and most other occassions.

Downstairs, The Dressing Room is a treasure trove of beautiful costume jewellery, gorgeous scarves, handbags and clothes for the ladies plus a small range of gifts for the gents.

CONTACT 50 Christchurch Road, Oxton, CH43 5SF DRAWING T: 0151 652 8452 ROOM F: 0151 652 8452 E: jane@drawingroom-oxton.co.uk W: www.drawingroom-oxton.co.uk

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20 CRIME DOES PAY!

WE SPEAK TO LUCA VESTE AHEAD OF THE RELEASE OF BLOOD STREAM - HIS THIRD CRIME NOVEL WHAT DRAWS YOU TO THE CRIME GENRE?

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MINUTE?

HOW MUCH RESEARCH DO YOU DO?

DO YOU WRITE FULL - TIME OR PART-TIME? DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TIME TO WRITE? HOW IS YOUR DAY STRUCTURED?

It’s the genre I enjoy reading most, so that drew me to it initially, but since then, I’ve found the genre lends itself to the type of story I want to tell. Crime fiction allows me to discover more about a subject I’m interested in than another genre may be able to. You can talk about death, social issues, politics, media, gender equality, policing, all within something that is also a page-turning thriller.

I WAS A LATE BLOOMER. I DIDN’T WRITE A WORD OR HAVE ANY INTENTION OF DOING SO - UNTIL I WAS AROUND 28

It depends on the book, really. With Dead Gone, it was based on real psychological experiments and theories, so I had to carry out a lot of research with regards to those. Then, discard the stuff that made the book too much like an academic essay and use broad strokes so I didn’t bore anyone! With The Dying Place, research was much more self-contained, looking around at the city of Liverpool and using the places and people I knew and going from there.

With Bloodstream, I did a fair amount of research into media and violence, and how they intertwine.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A WRITER?

I was a late bloomer. I didn’t write a word - or have any intention of doing so - until I was around 28. I was much happier just reading the stories, rather than making them up! Then, I started becoming more involved in the online community, reviewing books etc, and it became a general progression into writing fiction. I started off writing short stories, before finally hitting upon an idea, which would only lend itself to a full-length novel. That, eventually, became Dead Gone. Now, I can’t think of doing anything else as a career.

I finished the third book - Bloodstream - a month or so ago, so I’ve just started on Book Four. It’s the fourth Murphy and Rossi novel and delves into the idea of whether the past can ever stay buried, and if those in power who have made terrible decisions/ covered up crimes, can ever be held to account for those crimes.

I write full-time now. I used to write late at night, but now I write whenever I can. Usually in the day, so I’ll start around 10am, once the kids are in school and I’ve woken up a little. I can then write through until late afternoon. When I’m on a roll, I will write again around midnight for a couple of hours, when the house is asleep and there’s nothing I want to watch on TV. Writing is a solitary exercise and isn’t all about putting words on a screen/paper. When I’m in the midst of writing the first couple of drafts, I’m constantly thinking about the novel. Which leads to me walking around for most of the year in a daze, as I try to make sense of a plot strand, or character arc.

DO YOU WRITE ON A TYPEWRITER, COMPUTER, DICTATE OR LONGHAND?

I write mainly on computer, with extensive notes made longhand. I also have two whiteboards, which make no sense to anyone other than myself!

THESE BOOKS ARE PART OF A SERIES. TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE MAIN STORYLINE BEHIND THE TWO MAIN CHARACTERS.

The two main characters are Detective Inspector David Murphy and Detective Sergeant Laura Rossi.

Murphy is from Speke, grew up in a rough area, with little in the way of career prospects. He was an amateur boxer as a teenager, which helped him control his aggression, before joining the police at the age of 20. He rose through the ranks and has settled at the level of DI. His life was going well until a tragedy involving his parents had a catastrophic effect on his marriage and job. Things are on a more even keel now, but it still resonates. Laura Rossi is second generation Italian, being brought up in North Liverpool by Italian parents who moved to England in the 60s. Just into her thirties, she’s a university graduate, fast tracked into CID. She has five brothers, the only daughter, and also the youngest of all her siblings. She’s tenacious and witty, with a good eye for detail.

21 WHY DO YOU WRITE?

I think writers have things they want to say, and a novel is a way of getting those thoughts and feelings out in the best possible way. I start with a theme, which has resonated with me in some way and work outwards from there. With Dead Gone, the theme was death and the way it is treated within society - The Dying Place is about tensions between youth and an older generation, mixed with social issues and disenfranchisement - Bloodstream is about the 24-hour news culture and how violence becomes part of that, mixed with love and relationships. Writing gives me an opportunity to discuss those ideas in the wider context of telling a story, allowing me to explore it further.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT WRITING?

A blank page. Filling 400-odd of those is difficult.

Then, making the ideas you have internally come out in a way which makes sense! It’s the getting started and the actually finishing something which is hardest for most people.

HOW LONG ON AVERAGE DOES IT TAKE YOU TO WRITE A BOOK?

I work to deadlines, with a book coming out every year, so usually... a year! The idea percolates for a month or two, while I work it out in

my head. I start writing and usually complete a first draft quite quickly. Then, the work starts, as that first draft is a terrible thing, which no one can ever see. A jumble of ideas and words, that makes little sense. Another few months knocking that into a semblance of shape, before it goes off to my editor and agent, so they can tell me what works and what doesn’t. A few months of editing, and it’s finally able to go out into the wider world.

ANY TIPS ON HOW TO GET THROUGH THE DREADED WRITER’S BLOCK?

Thankfully, I’ve never suffered from it. I’ve seen it debilitate other writers however, so I’m constantly worried about it. What seemed to work in those cases was to step back from whatever they were writing, and do something else. Write a short story, a list of favourite words, a monologue from a character or something.

WHICH ACTOR/ACTRESS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE PLAYING THE LEAD CHARACTERS? YOU KNOW, FOR WHEN MR SPIELBERG WANTS TO PUT YOUR BOOKS INTO MOTION PICTURE...

Well, I wrote the book with the only Scouse actors I really knew about in mind. The Brookside cast. Unfortunately, that series is almost twenty years dead, so the actors don’t look anything like I remember these days, I imagine! Murphy is six foot four, bearded and huge. So, Stephen

Graham is out. I like a number of actors for him, but someone like Peter Serafinowicz would be perfect I think. Rossi... Sheridan Smith. With a tan. That’s the fantasy cast.

DO YOU READ MUCH AND IF SO WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE AUTHORS? I read all the time, I think you have to, otherwise the fiction world can move on and leave you behind. My favourite authors are Stephen King, Steve Mosby, Tim Weaver, Helen FitzGerald, and Mark Billingham.

FOR YOUR OWN READING, DO YOU PREFER E-BOOKS OR TRADITIONAL PAPER/HARD BACK BOOKS?

Both. I love a good hardback, but I’m equally happy reading e-books. If I enjoy a book enough, I have to invest in a hard copy for my shelves though.

IN WHAT FORMATS ARE YOUR BOOKS AVAILABLE?

Paperback, Ebook, and Audio. Also stone tablets, for a large fee.

BLOOD STREAM OUT OCTOBER!

CONTACT LUCA

W: www.lucaveste.com

B: www.lucaveste.com/blog F: Luca-Veste

T: @lucaveste

22 Over the last 35 years we have worked with many local businesses. Our belief is that accountancy should be

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23 LET’S STEP UP TO THE PLATE

WE LEARN ABOUT PLATELETS

“Not everyone can donate platelets… If you can, your help is needed” What are platelets?

Platelets stem blood flow at the site of an injury allowing the blood to clot and the wound to scab over.

Why do the NHS need platelets?

The demand for life-giving platelets is exceptionally high and with a shelf life of just seven days, hospital platelet reserves can easily run low. Platelet transfusions are therefore vital for cancer patients, Leukaemia sufferers, transplant patients or patients who have suffered a major haemorrhage as a result of surgery or severe injury. This process is not the same as giving blood.

What’s the process?

Not everyone is able to give platelets. The NHS have to do a quick blood test first to tell if your platelets count is suitable. In the case of women, they also screen for antibodies.

During a platelets donation, whole blood is drawn from one arm into a sterile kit inside a cell separating machine. The machine separates the blood so that only platelets and plasma are collected. The other blood components (red cells and white cells) are returned to the donor via the same arm.

Because your red blood cells are returned to you when you give a platelet donation, you are able to donate as often as every two weeks. It is not the same as donating blood.

Inside the cell-separator is a closed, sterile system of plastic bags and tubing that is used only once then disposed of. The process is repeated until enough platelets are collected – average time can be just over an hour to an hour and a half.

Do they need platelets from my blood group?

The answer is simply, yes. Anyone with Group A, O, B or AB blood can potentially give platelets. Group A and AB negative donors are extremely valuable because they can be given to people with different blood groups, helping save an even greater number of lives and help people with serious disease or injury. It is the best outcome for a patient to receive platelets from their own blood group and therefore the NHS always need platelets from Group O and B donors as well.

Local businessman Paul Saville from Custom Carpets donates on a regular basis and has just received a certificate for having donated over 100 times. His blood group is O RhD negative which only 7% of the worlds population have. O RhD negative can be safely given to anyone and is often used in medical emergencies when blood type isn’t immediately known.

You cannot however, give an O RhD negative person any other blood group other than their own.

Where can I donate?

There are only 23 donations centres across the whole of UK, and the nearest to us is Moorfields Hospital, Unit 6, 2 Moorfields, Liverpool L2 2BS. To book an appointment you can call 0151 471 9080.

24 SEYVR CHARGEABLE WALLET FOT IPHONE 5/6/6+ £59.95 WWW.CUCKOOLAND.COM Have you ever left the house and not realised you haven’t charged your phone? Maybe your phone often runs out of battery when you’re out and about or on the go? The Seyvr chargeable wallet is here to rescue you!

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Seyvr is a sleek, slim and stylish leather wallet for men with a build in phone charger.

With Seyvr you will be able to charge your mobile phone anytime you need it. The cable needed to charge your phone is fully integrated neatly in the designer wallet itself. The batin the wallet can be recharged in 2.5hrs using the supplied USB cable.

This luxury leather wallet can store 6 cards and also has a clip for cash and receipts. A perfect gift for men of all ages Features and benefits: Available in Black or Brown Quality Premium Cowhide Leather Slim Compact Design Holds 6 Cards

3 IN 1 UNIVERSAL CLIP CAMERA LENS £9.95 WWW.RED5.CO.UK This Clip Camera Lens allows you to take remarkably high quality photos using your phones camera. Three lenses are included in the set to give your photography a variety of new options. The Wide Angle Lens will extend your photos with an extra 180° getting into your shot, perfect for shooting landscapes and big group shots. The Fish Eye Lens is similar to the Wide Angle Lens as it gets more in the shot but adds a curved effect to the image. The third lens is arguably our favourite as the imagery is so sharp and clear. The Macro Lens is used to achieve extremely close up shots, showing the incredible detailing of your subject. Each of these lenses are easy to attach to your phone and don’t need any special cases fitting or apps to be downloaded. Simply screw your chosen lens on the grip, place over the camera on your phone or tablet and you can instantly enhance your photography without spending hours on photoshop. The universalness of this gadget means it will work with most smartphones, whether you are using a protective case or not.

The macro lens screws onto the wide angle lens so only two lens covers are provided, along with a microfiber bag for cleaning the lenses. As the 3 in 1 Universal Clip Camera Lens works with a peg styled clip, it will fit most smartphones and tablets.

THE RETRO TOUCH SPEAKER £29.95 WWW.RED5.CO.UK It’s always difficult trying to keep up with the latest fashion trend.

What’s in and trendy one week is out the next. That’s why you can never go wrong with a retro gadget. The Retro Touch Speaker is a perfect example of the old and the new coming together to make an awesome speaker. Although it looks like it’s come right out of the 70’s, it’s actually full of the latest tech. Using near field audio technology, the speaker instantly amplifies your sounds. Simply place your phone onto the nostalgic speaker and enjoy your music with a boost. Powered by USB or 3 x AA batteries, this speaker is perfect for bedside tables and kitchens alike. Use it as a safe place to view a delicious recipe whilst in the kitchen or as a handy stand for watching movies. You can even charge your phone from the speaker overnight then have an amplified alarm in the morning.

RETRO PHONE IN MUSTARD £39.95 WWW.CUCKOOLAND.COM Our brand new Retro Phone in Mustard is a quintessential British retro telephone and 60’s style icon. Why not have a bit of eccentricity in your life? This retro classic pastel blue phone would make the perfect compliment to even the most minimalist of homes. Launched in 1967 by the general post office in response to public demand, it would inspire two decades of conversation and is to this day the universal symbol of the phone. In celebration of this Great British icon, our replica maintains the bold curves of the original design in soft French Blue. For modern convenience, the dial has been replaced by buttons without detracting from the outer bezel design. This gorgeous retro phone is a great new home gift. Authentic Style. Simple to Plug in to a Standard Socket. Push Button Dialing. Redial Button.

25 HOVERBOARD £599.95 WWW.RED5.CO.UK Ever since Back to The future 2 we have yearned for a life when popping down to the local shops meant jumping on a hover board. Sadly we’re still not quite there, however the awesome Airwheel Airboard is the closest thing we seen yet! These transportation devices allow you to effortlessly travel from A to B with minimum effort. Standing up straight with a touch of leaning here and there is all there is to it. The pressure sensitive pads pick up on how your weight is being transferred and the Airboard does the rest. Lean in the direction you wish to go just by pushing your toes down and you are off!

Full 360 degree turning and self balancing technology mean that its super easy to ride and you’ll be surprised just how quickly you pick it up. The board is extremely durable and the rubber wheels mean there is zero chance of a puncture. The top speed is an impressive 8 MPH and the distance this marvel of technology will travel is between 7-9 miles. Its fairly weighty at 10kg but that goes to prove the excellent build quality. Once your fun has ended it takes a mere 60mins before you can hop back on!

Living GADGETS

TED BAKER FASTNET SPEAKER £198.99 WWW.ARGOS.CO.UK

BLOK INDUCTION SPEAKER £11.95 WWW.RED5.CO.UK Throughout the 20th century, people have struggled to share their music with their friends. For years we lugged around heavy boomboxes, or made our friends sit in silence as we cupped our earphones hoping to project the music from our Walkman. With the advancement of technology these are things we dont have to do anymore, so stop breaking your backs carrying heavy speakers and pop your phone on top of a Blok Induction Speaker for instantly amplified music. This slick portable speaker is perfect for when you are on the go and wanting to share your music with the world. With 15 hours of playback and an automatic on/off feature to save battery life, you can be sure that your tunes will be enjoyed by your friends wherever you are. A soft rubberized finish gives the Blok Induction Speaker a cool look and it is small enough to fit into your bag so it can go everywhere with you.

26 A POTENTIAL REVOLUTION

VESBIM

IS GRAPHENE THE NEW WONDER MATERIAL?

MEDIA LTD

What is Graphene?

Graphene is the world’s first 2D material. We have known about graphite (millions of exceptionally thin layers stacked together), since1947 but in 2004 a discovery was made that captured the attention of scientists, researchers and industry worldwide.

How was Graphene discovered?

The University of Manchester discovered Graphene. Well actually “one Friday, two scientists removed some flakes from a lump of bulk graphite with sticky tape. They noticed some flakes were thinner than others. By separating the graphite fragments repeatedly, they managed to create flakes which were just one atom thick. They had isolated graphene for the first time.” Their names are Professor Andre Geim, FRS and Professor Kostya Novoselov, FRS.

•

What are the properties of Graphene?

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Productional films and videos

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Online and digital promotional advertisements

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Corporate and individual production services

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Individual, creative and equiped studio space

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• • • • • •

Ultra-light Immensely tough 200 times stronger than steel Incredibly flexible Superb conductor Can act as a barrier – not even helium can pass through it

What benefits will Graphene bring us?

• Graphene membranes could see massive progression in the water purification technology in developing countries.

• Electronics and energy storage could be revolutionised by graphene because it is flexible, durable and semi-transparent.

• Imagine the mobile phones and clothing that communicates – like Star Trek!

• Imagine fully charging a smartphone in seconds! Yes, seconds!

• The University of Manchester are currently researching graphene’s potential in storing wind and solar power.

The use of graphene could change our world forever.

To find out more detail about graphene visit: www.graphene.manchester.ac.uk

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•

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T: 0151 352 2722 E: info@vesbim.com W: www.vesbim.com

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Bluebird Care is a local ‘home care’ company based in Birkenhead since 2007providing personal care and help in customers own homes. Care in your own home is a much cheaper and a preferred alternative to ‘nursing or residential care’ What this means to you is that you or your loved ones get to stay in your own homes with dignity and the comfort of familiar surroundings for as long as possible.

All Bluebird Care staff are carefully handpicked, referenced and fully trained to the highest standards in health and safety, moving and handling, medication administration, basic first aid and much more. All Bluebird Care workers also receive continuous ongoing training.

For more information please contact the team who are always on hand to answer your questions.

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Getting up, washing, showering, and dressing Preparing food and drink.

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30 GRAPHIC DESIGN WEB DESIGN PRINTING MARKETING PROUD TO DESIGN AND PRINT LIVING WIRRAL MAGAZINE 0151 558 1007 | 07772475445 www.mousemediastudio.com

31 WINE O’CLOCK

CABOVINO WITH THE LOW DOWN ON THREE VINOS

10DISCOUNT

% OFF BOTTLE ON PRODUCTION

OF MAGAZINE

Winery: Casa Vinicola Bennati | Grape: Barbera | Region: Piemonte, Italy

Producers description: The ruby colour, a light perfume of cherries and a warm velvety taste characterise this wine. This wine has everything a well structured red wine needs. With pleasant tannins and a smart finish it suits extremely well to rabbit, mousse, chocolate and cheese. To be served at 16 to 18°C.

Cabovino’s recommendation: This deep, ruby wine gives notes of black fruits, especially black cherries and blackcurrants, with a hint of spice on the palate. A light bodied wine with low but noticeable tannins and a good finish. This wine pairs well with tomato based pasta dishes such as lasagne or spaghetti bolognaise, grilled meats and summer barbeques or with charcuterie and cheese boards.

Bottle: £16.00 | 175ml Glass: £4.50, 250ml £6 | Great quality wine at an excellent price.

Winery: Le Pied Marin | Grape: Picpoul de Pinet | Region: Languedoc, France Producers description: The clay and limestone soil gives this wine fresh flavours.

Clear, pale yellow in colour with green highlights. Floral and citrus notes on the nose. The palate is lively, fresh and there is a pleasant persistence on the finish. Pairs well with oysters, sea food and tomatoes. It also pairs well with meats and cheeses.

Cabovino’s recommendation: Medium intensity on the nose, pale gold in colour with green fruits and stone fruit, especially peaches. Dry on the palate with medium acidity and floral notes with a good, full finish.

This wine pairs well with seafood such as grilled langoustines, white fish (halibut, turbot, salt cod or even sea bass) and tomato based salads.

Bottle: £20.50 | 175ml Glass: £5.75, 250ml £7.50 | A deliciously refreshing wine, something a little different

Winery: Bodega Pirineos (Mesache “Seleccion”) | Grape: Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon | Region: Somontano, Spain Producers description: Delightful aromas of raspberry, cherry and redcurrant, with hints of peach, watermelon and spices. Charming and ripe on the palate balanced by a touch of tannin, with oodles of juicy red fruit and a really long finish. 20% of the Merlot is oak aged to enhance the flavours.

Cabovino’s recommendation: Clear, pale salmon coloured wine from the newest wine region in Spain - at the foothills of the Pyrenees. Medium on the nose with sweet red fruits, reminiscent of Fox’s sweets, combined with melon and some spice on the palate. A touch of tannin, light bodied with a dry, long finish. This wine pairs well with tuna and tomato salads.

Bottle: £18.50 | 175ml Glass: £5, 250ml £7.50 | A fantastic summer wine, with unique flavours.

Cabovino is a European style wine bar offering a relaxed atmosphere, specialising in carefully selected wines from around the world and a range of beers paired with Spanish and Italian meats, cheeses and a daily tapas selection. They also offer a wide range of soft drinks, loose leaf teas and freshly ground coffee alongside pastries, cakes, a number of daily lunch dishes and a dish of the day served daily from 5pm.

CONTACT CABOVINO

84 Victoria Road, New Brighton, CH45 2JF T: 0151 345 3232 E: info@cabovino.co.uk W: cabovino.co.uk Twitter: @Cabovino Facebook: Cabovino

32 HOW DO YOU A LOOK AT OUR FAVOURITE BREW... TEA Well, how do you take yours? Hot, cold, with, without, in a cup, in a glass?

Take yours?

There is no doubt that we are a nation of tea drinkers; can you believe we consume 165 million cups per day? Incredible isn’t it? It does seem to be the answer to every problem we have. If in any doubt, put the kettle on and have a think about it.

The origins of tea can be traced back to 2737 BC in China. It wasn’t until Charles II married Catherine Braganza, a Portuguese tea addict, that the trend developed in Britain. Middle- and upper-class men and women drank tea at home as it was too expensive for the working class to afford. This was partly due to the high taxes and it was only in 1964 that tea duties were finally abolished.

By the eighteenth century many people in Britain wanted to drink tea but couldn’t afford to. Criminal gangs resorted to smuggling using brutal methods, yet they were supported by the millions of British tea drinkers. This small-time illegal trade developed quickly into an organized crime network with illegal imports of 7 million lbs versus 5 million lbs of legal import.

Originally the colour of tea wasn’t convincing enough to the public and anything from sheep’s dung to poisonous copper carbonate was added to make it look more like ‘the real thing’. We now understand that the characteristics and flavour of the tea will depend on the soil it is grown in alongside the altitude and climate of the area, musch like wine.

Over 1500 varieties of tea are believed to be in existence today and they can be divided into the following categories; black green, oolong, white, compressed and flavoured teas.

AFTERNOON TEA AND TEA ROOMS IN WIRRAL

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The Tudor Rose Tea Rooms

Frankby Road, Frankby, Wirral CH48 1PP T: 0151 677 9077 E: enquiries@peelhey.com W: www.peelhey.co.uk

88a Greendale Road, Port Sunlight Wirral, CH62 4XD T: 0151 645 1814

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Afternoon Tea Range of exotic Loose Leaf Teas

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Open 10:00 – 4:00, Monday – Sunday.

33 TEA FACTS •

An average cup or mug of tea contains 40-50mg of caffeine. Coffee contains twice as much on average –and in some cases up to 400mg for a large filter coffee.

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It is a myth that tea contains the same compounds that ‘tan’ leather – tannic acid and tannins. Instead, the characteristic hue and taste of black tea are down to its rich flavonoid content.

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Tea is just as hydrating as water –up to 6 mugs daily. An average mug of tea contains less than 50mg of caffeine.

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Health professionals, such as nurses, have a key role in helping to promote healthy hydration habits of their patients. Contrary to previous patient guidelines, there is now evidence that tea is just as hydrating as water so patients can reach for a cup of tea when they feel thirsty.

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Brew your cuppa for at least 2-3 minutes to maximise the health-giving properties of the flavonoids. And don’t worry about the caffeine as tea only contains 40-50mg per serving – less than coffee but enough to provide benefits for mental function.

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According to many studies, adding milk doesn’t appreciably influence the bioavailability of the flavonoids in tea. Neither would adding sugar if that’s your preference.

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Regular tea drinking is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

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Natural plant compounds, called flavonoids, explain the beneficial impact of tea on heart health and cognitive function.

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Tea is associated with relaxation and this may be due to the presence of an amino acid in tea, called L-theanine, which has specific calming effects on the brain.

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Growing research links tea drinking with a reduced risk of stroke and diabetes, as well as the known heart health benefits.

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Caffeine at intakes up to 400mg daily (equivalent to 8 servings of tea) can benefit mental function and exercise endurance.

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Instead of chewing sugar-free gum after meals, enjoy a cup of tea. The polyphenols in tea have anti-bacterial properties which have been found to kill off the oral bacteria that cause dental decay.

Zuger’s Tea Rooms

Cafe Creme

Curio

150, Allport Road, Bromborough, Wirral, CH62 6BB T: 0151 334 1904 W: www.zugerstearooms.co.uk

Marine Point, Kings Parade, New Brighton Wirral CH45 2PB E: Manager@caffecream.co.uk W: www.caffecream.co.uk

119 Banks Road, Wirral, West Kirby CH48 0RB T: 0151 625 4730 E: curiowestkirby@gmail.com

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Afternoon tea Selection of teas

Afternoon Tea Speciality Teas

Over 30 premium loose leaf teas

34 BARREL ROASTED JERK CHICKEN WITH BRAISED RICE AND PEAS This method of cookery was developed with my friend Michael Fox who runs a guesthouse, restaurant and vegetable farm high up on the slopes of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica. It’s a place of sheer beauty with fantastic views of the mountain range and the distant ocean close to the capital, Kingston. Isabelle, a Belgian traveller looking for work came to stay and told Michael about a cooking technique she’d seen back at home. It involved using an empty oil drum to hang chickens over a charcoal fire. These types of drums are commonly used in Jamaica for jerk barbecue cookery but it is rare to see one stood up with a rack in the top. I liked the idea as the heat is much less intense so there is more time for the smoky flavor to develop.

To make your own you will need either some welding skills or know a metal fabricator. Materials needed are one standard 55 gallon oil drum, one wheel rim, some iron building rods, a couple of hinges and some meat hooks for hanging the chickens. You need to make a door at the bottom of the barrel with the hinges to allow access to place the wheel rim inside which acts as the fire grate. Use the building rods to make a rack a couple of inches below the top to hang the meat from.

Whilst using the barrel roaster in Jamaica we move the door and the lid a little to change the temperature and smoke saturation but you could easily add some adjustable vents to do this, and even some racks lower down inside the barrel to offer more areas to cook.

To prepare the chicken you will need: 1 good quality free-range chicken A couple spring onions 1 lime A piece of ginger, about 1 square inch, peeled A good sprig of thyme 5 roasted allspice berries or 1 tbsp allspice Half a small garlic bulb, peeled 1 tbsp salt or soy sauce 2 tbsp honey Vegetable oil Place all the ingredients except the vegetable oil in a blender and turn it on.

Slowly pour in enough oil to make the marinade like a thick sauce, similar to freshly made pesto or salsa verde.

Rub the marinade all over the chicken, inside and out, and make sure you

take care to get some in between the flesh and the skin of the breast; this both helps to add flavour and keeps it from drying out.

Marinade at least 24 hours in the fridge.

Place some charcoal, firelighters and smoke chips (if you have some) in the wheel rim, place inside the bottom of the barrel and light.

Heat the charcoal and get the barrel nice and smoky by keeping the door and lid closed with small gaps to encourage airflow to get the fire going.

Take the chicken and insert the hook through the chickens’ back so that when it hangs the breast is facing up and the legs are hanging towards the coals.

Remove the lid and hang the chicken from the rack, place the lid back on and close the door at the bottom. Depending on the size of the fire and how you adjust the temperature, it can take anywhere between 1-4 hours or so to cook through.

Test by inserting a skewer to see if the juices are running clear. Divide the chicken into four pieces and serve with rice and peas.

For the braised rice and peas you will need 2 cups long grain rice, washed and drained 2 oz butter 1 tin kidney bens, drained, 1 tin coconut milk 2 cloves of garlic, peeled 1 spring onion, whole 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 sprig fresh thyme 1tsp allspice or 2 allspice berries 1 chicken stock cube, crushed Water Place the coconut milk in a measuring jug and add enough water to make three cups of liquid, place in a pan and bring to the boil.

In a saucepan melt the butter and sweat the onions till cooked without colour, add the rice and continue cooking till it turns opaque.

Add the remaining ingredients, stir together and pour in the boiling coconut mixture. Stir gently to combine, make sure the mixture has reached the boil before turning down to the lowest heat possible and place a tight fitting lid on.

Cook for about 15-18 minutes, turn off the heat and leave it to rest for about 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb all the liquid.

Rob Thunder is a freelance chef who loves to improvise with what’s available, both in terms of local produce and whatever is in the kitchen at any given moment. He caters for private parties creating unique (or traditional) menus and recipes every time.

T: 07889 401 711 E: robthunder@hotmail.com

35 PUMPKERLICIOUS! A LITTLE LOOK AT THE PUMPKIN

There are different types of pumpkin coloured white, green, yellow and red but there is perhaps one that most of us would recognise - the traditional orange pumpkin used at Halloween for carving and making soups and pies.

Pumpkins grow in different shapes, sizes and weight for many reasons.

Weather is a massive contributing factor; they were originally grown in the North of USA but moved with the settlers throughout the states to different climates - different species were subsequently developed.

Many growers cross-pollinate different species to create new ones.

All “giant” pumpkins that grow today have evolved from the seeds developed by William Warnock who grew the first record-breaking pumpkin in 1893 weighing 365 pounds (26 stone, 1lb). Todays record was set by Beni Meier from Germany on 12 October 2014 weighing 2,323lbs (165 stone).

100g pumpkin provides just 26 calories and contains no saturated fats or cholesterol; however, it is rich in dietary fiber, anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins.

Pumpkin Soup Recipe Ingredients 4 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, finely chopped 1kg pumpkins, peeled, deseeded and chopped into chunks 700ml vegetable or chicken stock 142ml pot double cream 4 slices wholemeal seeded bread Handful pumpkin seed from a packet Method 1. Heat two tablespoons olive oil in a large saucepan and gently cook two finely chopped onions for five minutes until soft but not coloured.

Add 1kg peeled, deseeded and chopped pumpkin or squash to the pan. Carry on cooking for 8-10 mins stirring occasionally until it starts to soften and turn golden.

2. Pour 700ml vegetable stock into the pan, season with salt and pepper. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10 mins until the squash is very soft. Pour the 142ml pot of double cream into the pan, bring back to the boil then purée with a hand blender. The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months.

3. While the soup is cooking, slice the crusts from 4 slices of wholemeal seed bread and cut the bread into small croutons. Heat the remaining two tablespoons olive oil in a frying pan and fry the bread until it starts to become crisp. Add the pumpkin seeds to the pan and cook for a few mins more until they are toasted.

Reheat the soup if needed, taste for seasoning, then serve scattered with croutons and seeds and drizzled with more olive oil, if you want.

Factfile Family: Cucurbitaceae Genus: Cucurbita Other members of the family: Cucumbers, melons, winter squash, summer squash Origin of name: The name pumpkin comes from the Greek word ‘pepon’, meaning ‘large melon’

36 BUY LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL Claremont Farm is a passionate and committed sustainable business. After 100+ years in Wirral, (40 years as a farm shop), it has grown into a destination venue and champions local food producers.

It is the home of annual food and drink festival ‘Farm Feast’ – previously known as Wirral Food and Drink Festival – which celebrates homegrown, local food, drink and music talent in the Wirral area. It attracts over 20,000 visitors each year and hosts 100+ food producers and 60+ musicians and bands.

Their purpose built farm shop, cafe, and events space, supports even more local producers and businesses, and throughout the year, they employ 40 full and part time staff and can seat 50 guests in their cafe.

Claremont works with local businesses on events

to build a network of passionate local foodies including Threshold Festival, Kazamier, 60 Hope St. Supper Club and Scatchards Aspargus Wine Evenings.

Claremont Farm support local businesses: •

The Chocolate Cellar

Things to do at Claremont Farm

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Nova

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Pick your own fruit

Go on an educational welly walk Have a birthday party

Engage in team building activities

Use as a starting point for a Wirral walk Visit the farm on a Wirral cycling route Go fishing

Enrol in a cookery school course

Enjoy food and drink at the 50 seat café

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Squidges

Bates Dairy

Wirral Watercress Born and Bread

Fruits of Pensby The Popperie Raby Eggs

Tony the Fish

Whieldon’s Butchers Tag Crisps

Buy local produce at the farm shop

CONTACT CLAREMONT

Old Clatterbridge Road, Bebington. CH63 4JB Office: 0151 334 1906 Shop & Cafe: 0151 334 1133 Farm, Accounts, Fishing: Guy 07917034466 Wholesale, Events, Cookery School, Welly Walks, Visits: Andrew 07785783408 Twitter: @ClaremontFarm Facebook: ClaremontFarm Web: claremontfarm.co.uk

BUY LOCAL – SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS is a campaign we are launching to help keep local money, local.

Did you know that if each of us spent £100 (approx £2 per week) a year more in local businesses instead of chain stores, it would put £3,000,000 into our local economy and create more local jobs.

Andrew Pimbley from Claremont Farm shares our vision and in a recent Facebook post, shared his thoughts: “There has been a lot in the news recently about supermarkets not paying a fair price to farmers for milk. This is just one of many products farmers are exploited for.

There is a reason supermarkets are massive global businesses, making billions of profit at the expense of their suppliers. Our high streets are deserted, independent shops are becoming harder to find and farmers are going out of business at an alarming rate.

At Claremont we support local businesses, their families and in turn we create a sustainable, healthy, local economy.

Please think twice when out shopping, if you think you are getting a deal too good to be true, it usually is and someone somewhere is usually getting shafted….and it ain’t the supermarkets!”

Over the coming months we will be spreading the word through various media methods and hope that the Wirral businesses support our vision.

If you have any ideas or thoughts, please let us know.

You can email hello@livingwirral.com

#buylocalWirral

What’s your poison?

Vodka, lime and soda. I am much more sensible with my drink than in my younger days! I tend not to mix them, well, not often anyway!

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

That would be Italy. I went there on honeymoon and totally fell in love. The food, the people, the landscape, I love it all.

What’s your favourite App? Twitter. I tweet every work day and try to answer as many people as I can. Although, I have just learnt how to use LinkedIn so who knows what my answer will be next month?

SPOTLIGHT ON...

TERRI DWYER

What device do you prefer to use it on?

My iPad, I never leave home without it!

Terri Dwyer is an actress, presenter, writer and mother.

Her career took off in the mid nineties when she played Ruth Osbourne in the award winning soap opera, Hollyoaks.

Terri returned to acting in 2011 having hosted 60 Minute Makeover, and appeared as a regular on programmes such as Loose Woman and This Morning to name but a few.

Currently working on projects on the big screen and in the Theatre, we are hoping it won’t be too long before this talented lady returns to our TV screens once more.

Twitter: @Terri_Dwyer Web: officialterridwyer.com

What’s the last film you watched?

I went to see Inside Out with the boys and it was pretty good, very clever in parts. I would have prefered to watch The Fantastic Four you can’t beat a bit of action!

QUICKIES

Apple or Android? Apple Ketchup or Mayo? Ketchup Pepsi or Coke? Coke Cats or Dogs? Neither really Night in or night out? Night out!

Facebook or Twitter? Twitter

What was the last thing you downloaded?

It was on my iPhone... ah, here it is - ‘Learning the Cockney Accent’ by Gwyneth Strong and Penny Dyer.

Don’t leave things too late Morecrofts Solicitors are delighted to welcome back Heather Lally who heads up the Private Client team at our Wirral Office, from Maternity leave.

Heather is an Associate Solicitor and a Trust and Estate Practitioner at Morecrofts LLP with over 10 years experience in dealing with Wills, Trusts, Estates, Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection work.

Heather comments on her return “I’m excited to be back at work on the Wirral and doing what I do best, advising clients and helping them to plan for the future of their families. It’s even more satisfying now that I have my own young family, in guiding clients to make those vital decisions. This is especially important when talking about Wills, guardians for children and Attorneys who can assist in managing affairs in the event of the client losing capacity, whether that be physically or mentally.”

Heather gave birth to her third son last year, after having had twin boys the year before. At Morecrofts Heather is part of an award winning Private Client team that has won the Liverpool Law Society Private Client Award for the last 2 years running.

One of the most frequent things clients say to Heather is “I’ve been meaning to get around to making my Will for years, but you think you’re going to live forever”. It is usually an event that happens which makes people take that step to getting things sorted, whether that be a death, divorce, dealing with an elderly relative, fallings out within the family or the joy of a birth.

Heather comments “we can make it easy for people to make their Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney, advising and guiding on different situations that are not always thought about”.

Rather than leave things to chance, why not go and see Heather Lally for your peace of mind?

Morecrofts – More than Meets the Eye

For further information please contact Heather and her team on 0151 666 2210 | Email: hal@morecrofts.co.uk | Or visit our website at www.morecrofts.co.uk Wirral Office: 30 Hamilton Square, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 6AZ Twitter - @morecrofts | Facebook – www.facebook.com/MorecroftsSolicitors

Anne Roberts

The Girl...

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Anne Roberts Hair and Beauty | 80 Birch Road, Oxton, Birkenhead. CH43 5UE T: 0151 653 7979 | www.annerobertsoxton.com