Mia Carragher
Liverpool actress stars as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: On Stage
Queens’ summer menu reviewed
New homes at Daresbury Garden Village
Jane Clare’s wine trip to remember Annie S’s summer fashion edit
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Park
Hello and welcome to the July edition of YM Liverpool!
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First up this month is our exclusive interview with rising Liverpool actress Mia Carragher. From early classes at Wood Street’s Rare Studio to intensive training at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, she landed her first major role as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: On Stage. We sat down to talk about what it means to take on such an iconic character early in her career, and the physical and emotional demands of performing eight all-action shows a week.
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Elsewhere, we visit David Wilson Homes’ new Queens Reach development in Daresbury Garden Village and discover the roarsome ‘Dino Takeover’ coming to World Museum this summer.
Longmeanygate, Midge Hall, Leyland, Lancashire, PR26 7TB
Plus, Annie S shares her resort-ready summer style picks, Robin Brown samples the new menu at Queens, and Heather Marsh celebrates a garden favourite that truly comes into its own when the heat is on.
Need help with your deposit as a Key Worker?*
Finally, Jane Clare heads to Portugal’s stunning Douro Valley, where dramatic vineyard views, an award-winning red and a hands-on blending challenge make for a wine trip to remember.
Until next time!
Learn more about our Key Worker Deposit Contribution* scheme. If you’re an essential worker, we could contribute £1,000 towards your deposit for every £20,000 spent on the purchase priceup to a maximum of £25,000.
our Sales Advisers to find out more.
LAWRENCE SAUNDERS Editor
Editor Lawrence Saunders editor@ymliverpool.com
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Girl on
From early classes at Liverpool’s Rare Studio to intense method acting training in New York, Mia Carragher’s journey has led her to one of theatre’s most demanding roles. As she stars as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: On Stage, the young actress discusses discipline, confidence and making an iconic character her own
How did your interest in acting first develop, and when did you realise it was something you wanted to take seriously?
I was a dancer from a very young age, and then when I was around 11, I started taking classes at Rare Studio in Liverpool. Not long after, I did a play there called Brass Razoo with Ellis Howard (What It Feels Like for a Girl), Chloe English (G’wed) and Bex Smith (Coronation Street).
That was basically my introduction to acting. The play was about poverty in the UK, and we ended up going to the Houses of Parliament, where each of us performed a monologue from the piece.
From there, I carried on dancing, but around the age of 16 I had to make a decision about what I wanted to put more of my energy into. I auditioned for Tring Park School in Hertfordshire and chose the acting course, so that’s when acting became more serious for me.
How did you find life at the school, especially being away from home for the first time?
I was actually going to go when I was 14, but my mum and dad thought that was a bit too young. I went when it was the right time, and it was the best – I’d go back now if I could! It felt like we were all in High School Musical [laughs]. It was amazing.
I was the only Scouser there – the only one from up north, actually – so for the first two weeks people were laughing and nodding when I spoke. Everyone was so posh and nobody could understand me. I think my accent softened a bit after being there for a while.
The Hunger Games is your first major theatre, TV or film project. Were you already a fan of the series before the role came along?
I wasn’t a super fan but I’d seen the first two films. When I got the role, then I of course watched the entire series of films, and read the first book, which the show is based on.
How did you land the role of the main protagonist, Katniss Everdeen?
I got an email about auditions for the show. They were in-person auditions, which I was happy about because nowadays everything is self-tape. I’ve booked a few roles where I’ve never even met anyone in person – it’s just been on Zoom or whatever.
The first round was movement, which I was excited for and confident about because of my dance background. They said I would be considered for Katniss, but for other roles as well. I did the movement call, then went to come home to Liverpool, and they rang me to say: ‘Don’t get on the train – we want you to come back in tomorrow and read for Katniss’.
So I read again the next day and then went back two weeks later to do a fight call, because the show features a lot of action. They then wanted me to do the scenes again, but have them recorded so they could send them to the higherup people at Lionsgate.
It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. I don’t think I knew how intense [the show] was going to be.
You also spent time in New York training at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. What was that experience like, and how did it shape you as an actor? I was 18 when I went, and I’d just left Tring. Looking back, I think I felt older than I actually was. I really had no fear, which is probably the thing that got me there.
I’m so glad I went. Originally, I was only meant to do three months, but the training was intense – method acting. By the end of the three months, I felt like I’d only just started to get to grips with it; feeling comfortable speaking to people, and taking on what I was being taught.
I spoke to my mum and dad and ended up staying for another six months. It was really intense, but probably the best training I could have had. It was very formative for me as an actor.
How did you find out you’d got the part, and who was the first person you told?
It had been two weeks since my last audition and I’d heard that I was quite close, and then the director followed me on Instagram... I had a really weird feeling on the day I found out. I didn’t know what to do with myself so I went for a walk and that’s when my agent rang me to say I’d got it. I sprinted back home and FaceTimed my mum and dad. They were actually in Malta at the time, watching my brother [James] play for the Malta national football team, so it was quite a mad experience.
How did you feel about taking on such a big role so early in your career?
Initially, it was just excitement. I found out in March, but I didn’t start rehearsals until August, so there was this lovely period of time where I knew I had something coming next and could kind of enjoy myself.
But when August came around, and I was moving to London, I was quite terrified!
Katniss is such an iconic character, and one who is so loved by fans of the franchise. How did you approach making the role your own on stage?
The script that we had is very different from the film. It takes a lot more from the first book, which is narrated by Katniss and that’s how it’s done on stage. Of course, I took a lot of inspiration from Jennifer Lawrence and her portrayal of Katniss but I couldn’t have played it like her because of the material we were given. I took advice from the writer and director, and just naturally I came up with my own version of the character.
It’s a very physical show – how demanding have the performances been, and do you have to look after yourself off stage?
It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. I don’t think I knew how intense it was going to be – at the beginning there was so much excitement and adrenaline. But now, because we’re about eight months into the run and that adrenaline and excitement have kind of died down, it’s just an everyday thing – it’s my job – and it is so taxing, both physically and mentally.
We do eight shows a week – two acts, each just over an hour, so it’s nearly two and a half hours in total.
I get a lot of massages and physio, and I still go to the gym because I’ve got to keep my stamina and fitness up. Even when I’m not doing the show, or when I’m on holiday, I train most days so it’s not a shock to my body when I come back.
Reviews of the show have praised your ability to handle the physical demands of the production while still bringing a grounded emotional core to Katniss – how do you balance those two aspects in your performance?
I think that’s probably the hardest thing about it, because your body gets so used to the physicality of it – my fitness levels are high and I can cope with that – but I think the emotional parts are actually tougher, because I have those feelings basically every night, sometimes twice in a day, and sometimes your body doesn’t really know that you’re acting. So you really have to look after yourself and have some normality outside of the show.
It’s a tough one though, because you can’t do too much in between shows – you have to save a lot of energy to give the best possible performance.
TV and film is probably where I’m headed next, but I’m open to anything. I feel a lot more confident now I’ve got this role behind me.
on TV before I go to bed – anything that’s totally different – helps you switch off.
How much has the show evolved from the early rehearsals to now? So much. At the beginning, the production team obviously had an idea of how they wanted it to go, but going from the rehearsal space to an actual massive theatre, it becomes a completely different show. The previews lasted about two or three weeks, and every night it was different – we’d come in, rehearse all day, and whatever we changed that day they’d say, ‘Okay, do that tonight’. Your brain is going 100 miles an hour.
The show ends with a big monologue from me, and one night they gave me a completely different monologue – a completely different direction and meaning behind it – and it was just: ‘Okay, learn that, you’re going to come in tomorrow, we’re going to space it, and that’s what you’re going to perform’. Sometimes I was performing stuff and I didn’t really know what I was doing, I was just doing it.
But over time everything settles in, and now when people come back who saw the early shows, they can’t believe how much slicker it is – everyone is so on it and so much more comfortable.
You were nominated for Best Professional Debut Performance at the WhatsOnStage Awards earlier this year – what did that recognition mean to you?
That was unbelievable. I was so excited that the show was recognised for something, and that I was the one representing it. I was over the moon, and even just being at that awards night, surrounded by such amazing people, was incredible.
But even just meeting someone for lunch, or doing something completely separate from the show, like watching something funny
Looking ahead, do you see yourself continuing in theatre for a while, or would you like to explore TV and film next?
Probably TV and film is where I’m headed at the minute. Auditions are now starting to pick up for after I finish in October, but to be honest I’m open to anything. I feel a lot more confident going into other rooms now that I’ve got this role behind me.
Mia Carragher appears as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: On Stage at the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre until 25 October
JOHAN PERSSON
Scenes from The Hunger Games: On Stage
Accidents in the Workplace? – Consult the Legal Experts
If you have been involved in a workplace accident and suffered a serious injury, the legal experts at Paul Crowley & Co are here to help. It is an employer’s legal responsibility to ensure the workplace is a safe environment. The consequences of negligence in the workplace can have far reaching implications leaving a person unable to return to work, suffering from emotional distress and long term financial hardship. If your employer has been negligent and is at fault for your workplace injury, then you could be entitled to make a claim for compensation
If you have suffered an Accident at Work what are your rights?
If you are unfortunate to have sustained an accident in the workplace and your employer has failed to comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act, then you have a right to be properly compensated for the physical and psychological pain suffered and for any financial losses incurred as a result of your injury.
If your workplace accident causes you to take time off work, your employer cannot sack you and you may be entitled to statutory sick pay.
If you make a compensation claim against your employer for a workplace accident, it is illegal for your employer to discipline or sack you for making a claim. If your employer decides to sack you, Paul Crowley & Co would take legal action against your employer for unfair dismissal.
Can I make a personal injury claim as a result of my employer’s negligence?
Yes you can, you have the right to seek compensation for the pain and discomfort experienced and to recover any out of pocket financial losses. Your employer is required by law to have sufficient insurance to cover the cost of your injuries in the event of an accident.
Is there a time limit to making a personal injury claim?
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An Accident at Work as defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is an event that results in injury or ill health. Any accident that you can suffer at work while carrying out your duties, can be classified as an Accident at Work:
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By Robin Brown | Bistro | ££ | Queen Avenue, L2 4TX
I’ve got a lot of history on Castle Street: banks, eateries, workplaces – you know, back when there was just the hyperannuated Franco’s on the whole stretch if you fancied a bite to eat. I banked at the massive NatWest branch too – the one from the “it’s not all work, work, work!” adverts in the ’80s – and I once attended an ill-judged press launch for a Brazilian restaurant that featured a handful of freezing local models and an alarming amount of yellow body paint. It was the kind of distraction that explains how, for a shameful number of years, I missed the entrance to Queen Avenue.
That changed thanks to R&H Fine Wines around 15 years ago, signaling the area’s culinary shift, bringing whimsical wine knowledge in the shape of Devin Stewart, who later reopened nearby bistro Queens alongside Lucas Pires and a tight-knit team.
Walking the approaches to Queen Avenue now reveals a sea of industrial lager and pizza, basking in the summer sun. Gone are the banks, printers and bookies. Here now are the vaguely WAGgy wine bars (many exactly the kind your bank promised it wouldn’t turn into), replete with Protein Chiefs and prosecco. But turn into the avenue, a glorious alleyway that draws comparison to the place in Harry Potter where they buy wands, and
you leave the hustle of Castle and Dale Street behind for something quieter, more refined and dangerously close to a ‘hidden gem’.
It’s gratifying to find that nothing has changed at first glance: the service, style and general ambience suggest a confident and comfortable European bistro-brasserie. As we arrive on one of June’s hottest days the alley is full of diners, including tourists, drawn here by the weather and outside dining, the modern(ish) British(ish) food and probably the AA rosettes.
The menu is elegant and seasonal (rabbit, asparagus, trout, lamb) – think British fare combining classical Anglo-French cooking (brown butter, bordelaise, sorrel) with some 21st Century seasoning. If you actually like good food, a demographic I fear is nearing extinction among today’s ‘for the Gram’ punters, there will be something for you here. Tellingly, most of the mains cost the same as a medium Domino’s pizza. And frankly, good luck trying to get a biodynamic orange wine pairing with your Pepperoni Passion (suggestions come courtesy of the knowledgeable, attentive staff).
Following some well-judged snacks, we started with a cured mackerel dish (£12). The fish itself was delicious and meaty, but it was forced to share a plate with a slightly
The leek and mushroom quiche managed to be both light and rich, complemented beautifully by a salad of bitter leaves and punchy walnut ketchup.
bemusing coriander vichyssoise and a nori crumb that looked and tasted like it was grieving. Accompanied by slivers of intense lime, it felt less like a cohesive dish and more like a beautiful central ingredient being bullied by its own garnishes. However, the second starter, a leek and mushroom quiche that somehow managed to be both light and rich was complemented beautifully by a salad of bitter leaves and punchy walnut ketchup.
A main of pork three ways (some slightly pink loin, crispy slivers of Stornoway black pudding and pancetta jam) with a watercress reduction (£28) was a very well-judged plate of food, while asparagus with cannellini cream and Jersey Royals (£24) was a perfect summer tea.
An amuse bouche arrived in the form of an intense, tropical sorbet amuse-bouche evoked an upmarket Kia-Ora in the best way then onto desserts. A deconstructed Eton Mess and Bolo de Amêndoa (almond tart – both a tenner) duly arrive and don’t last long, the two sweets demonstrating the range of influences and approaches to the cooking here.
Queens reminds me of the buzzy bistrobrasseries of my youth, the kind reserved for birthdays or when someone else was paying. They seem a little unfashionable now, bafflingly so, because real food, grown-up service and a stellar wine list should always be a home run. Look, a pizza, hot honey and a cold one have their place, but for special occasions, glorious summer evenings or even a drab Tuesday in November when you need a pick-me-up, forget the pizza’n’Poretti and head to Queens.
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One foot in THE GRAPES
Jane Clare heads to Portugal’s stunning Douro Valley, where dramatic vineyard views, an award-winning red and a hands-on blending challenge make for a wine trip to remember
Gliding down the Douro River on a boat, enjoying a glass of Douro red wine, was my perfect way to spend a Thursday afternoon.
The riverbank crept by, with the land staircased by vineyards rising and rising, each partitioned by stone walls built by grapegrowers over many decades.
The Douro Valley in Portugal has to be one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world; and I’d arrived there by taking a two-hour flight from Liverpool to Porto.
Clockwise: Jane in the Douro vineyards; head winemaker Jorge Moreira; Co-op’s 2024 Douro; and their senior buyer Ellie Pinfield
From Porto it was a couple of hours’ drive into Pinhão – the heart of Douro’s wine country. Many people take the train which takes in a picturesque route parallel to the river.
However you choose to arrive, the Douro delivers breathtaking, bang-foryour-buck views at every turn.
Yes, the region is famous for port – and, by golly, a glass of white port and tonic is a delicious alternative to a G&T at this time of year. But the Douro is also highly regarded for its still wines.
Douro Valley was the world’s first officially designated and regulated wine region, established in 1756.
The UK is already one of Portugal’s most important markets for wine exports, and over the next decade the country aims to make it its number one destination.
The very morning I arrived in Pinhão, it had been announced that the Co-op Irresistible Douro 2024 (RRP £9.50) had won a Decanter gold award.
It was timely as we were on our way to Quinta das Carvalhas, and to meet the team from wine producer Real Companhia Velha which makes the red wine.
After a morning in the vineyards with viticulturist Álvaro Martinho, we were joined by head winemaker Jorge Moreira and Pedro Silva Reis, a third-generation member of the wine-producing family. Then came our challenge: to create a new wine!
No pressure, then – especially as the 2024 Irresistible Douro had just won a gold award. Could we create a new vintage worthy of following in this champion’s footsteps?
Blends are the backbone of many wines, and nowhere is that truer than in this region. Black grape varieties each add their own extra something, including structure, body, flavour and tannin.
We began with a base wine and –guided by Jorge and blended by Pedro – added percentages of wines made from local grapes Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional and Rufete.
After four variations, our tasting team thought we had nailed it, creating a wine that was red and black-fruited, with soft tannins and a clean freshness.
The Co-op’s senior wine buying manager Ellie Pinfield seemed happy – and back home, she may make further tweaks to the percentage proportions of the grapes in the blend.
It was a fascinating process to see the decision-making behind a red wine in its heartland, before it makes the journey to sit in a bottle on a wine shelf back at home.
I’ll have to wait and see what the final blend is... but in the meantime, I was happy to celebrate the part I had played by sipping a glass of vino on the boat!
Jane Clare was in the Douro on a press trip as a guest of The Co-op and Real Companhia Velha
Asti Excellence
The Co-op wasn’t the only supermarket to receive a golden nod at the recent Decanter Awards.
Asda also enjoyed success, with several accolades including one for Exceptional by ASDA Asti, which comes in at under a fiver at £4.70.
For a light, fresh, floral and refreshing sparkle in your glass, look no further.
The Muscat grape brings aromas of peach and blossom, while the way Asti is made guarantees a wine that is low in alcohol and has a moreish medium sweetness. It’s a perfect sip with bowls of summer puddings. What’s not to love!
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Liverpool’s iconic Lewis’s Building hits the market
Landmark is currently occupied by Adagio aparthotel and PureGym, while a substantial amount of space remains vacant
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE advisor
Avison Young and joint agents Area have been appointed to market the Lewis’s Building, one of Liverpool’s most historic Grade II-listed landmarks.
Situated on the corner of Ranelagh Street, the 320,195 sq ft building was opened in 1856 as Lewis’s, one of England’s first department stores, and has been partially redeveloped, with the remaining space offering significant opportunity for further development.
The building is currently occupied by the 126-bedroom Adagio aparthotel and PureGym, while a substantial amount of space
remains vacant, including self-contained office facilities and large sections of the former Lewis’s store, offering scope for future uses including education, life sciences, hospitality, residential and student accommodation.
The property currently generates more than £800,000 in annual rental income, with Adagio Hotels’ lease running until 2043 and PureGym’s until 2032.
David Winterbottom, principal, capital markets at Avison Young, says: “The Lewis’s Building is an iconic cornerstone of Liverpool city centre, and we expect to see strong interest as this historic site comes to market.
“The property presents a truly unrivalled
Historic arts and crafts retailer plans Parr Street store
Manchester-founded Fred Aldous has been supplying materials to artists, makers and crafters for more than 140 years
LONG-ESTABLISHED ARTS, crafts and creative supplies retailer Fred Aldous is planning to open in Liverpool city centre.
A planning application has been submitted to Liverpool City Council to change the use of the 4,300 sq ft former Basement Advisory Centre on Parr Street, paving the way for Fred Aldous to open its newest store in the three-storey building.
Founded in Manchester in 1886 by Fred Aldous, the business began by selling cane and willow from a handcart to supply basketweavers working in the city’s cotton industry, before gradually expanding into craft materials, tools and creative supplies.
opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment, offering exceptional flexibility for a wide range of future uses. Positioned at the intersection of Liverpool’s thriving retail, office and innovation districts, the site benefits from significant planning potential across residential, leisure, commercial and cultural sectors.
“Liverpool city centre has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, driven by significant inward investment, and this landmark asset is now poised to be reimagined for the next generation, reflecting the continued regeneration and growth we’re already seeing across the wider city region.”
Today, Fred Aldous has stores in Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield, with its shops stocking around 30,000 products for artists, makers and design enthusiasts.
According to documents submitted with the application, the proposed Liverpool store would sell art materials, craft supplies, stationery, haberdashery and other creative goods.
The planning statement says the proposal
would secure the continued occupation and active use of an existing commercial building, introduce a well-established retailer into Liverpool city centre and contribute positively towards footfall and economic activity.
It adds that the scheme would make effective use of the building without requiring significant physical alterations, while preserving the character and appearance of the Duke Street Conservation Area.
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• Thread lifts
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Heatwave drives local demand for domestic air conditioning
Homeowners are increasingly opting for longer-term cooling solutions
KIRKDALE-BASED EVERKOOL has seen demand for its domestic air conditioning services rise as the recent heatwave prompts more homeowners to look for ways to keep cool.
Liverpool saw highs of around 32C on 26 June, while some parts of the UK experienced their hottest June conditions on record.
Nationally, higher temperatures have also led to growing sales of fans and air conditioning units, with more people looking for effective ways to cool their homes during warmer summer conditions.
The issue reflects a wider concern around rising temperatures and the UK’s housing stock. According to the National Housing Federation (NHF), 90% of UK homes could overheat by 2050, with most properties historically designed to retain warmth.
Research from the University of Reading found around 4.3% of homes in England currently use air conditioning, equal to about 1.06 million properties, but forecasts suggest that figure could rise significantly by 2050 as temperatures increase.
Through its Everkool For the Home division, Everkool provides domestic air conditioning installation, with home surveys carried out to assess the most suitable system for each property.
Craig Greenwood, founder of Everkool (pictured), says: “We’re seeing more people realise that air conditioning is no longer just for
offices, shops and hotels. Whether it’s a bedroom, home office or family living space, a well-installed system can make a real difference during hot weather, and many units can also provide efficient heating in the colder months.
“The recent temperatures have definitely focused people’s minds. We’ve seen an increase in enquiries, but more importantly, we’re now out installing systems for homeowners who want a practical, longterm solution.”
PC&Co solicitor reaches key
career milestone
Mistoria sees success with fast-track Public Sale service
Estate agent says more vendors are looking for ways to sell their properties without the ‘usual uncertainty’
WITH GOVERNMENT FIGURES showing the average home purchase takes around 120 days and one in three sales falls through, Mistoria Estate Agents says more sellers are looking for a faster and more certain route to completion.
The Liverpool branch is reporting growing success with Mistoria Public Sale, a service designed to offer homeowners, landlords and investors an alternative to the delays often associated with traditional property sales.
The model allows sellers to list their property with no vendor fees, access verified buyers and aim for completion in as little as 28 days. Mistoria says the approach is proving particularly attractive to those who want to avoid lengthy chains, uncertain timescales and last-minute fall-throughs.
As part of the process, the team provides a free, no-obligation valuation and advises on a suitable reserve price before marketing the property to interested buyers.
Sarah Boothroyd, branch manager of Mistoria Estate Agents Liverpool, says: “We’re seeing a strong response to Public Sale because it gives sellers another option at a time when many are frustrated by the traditional sales process.
“For sellers who want speed, certainty and serious buyers from the outset, Public Sale can be a very effective route. It removes a lot of the usual uncertainty, while still ensuring the property is professionally marketed and exposed to the right audience.”
Beth Strickland has secured full Duty Solicitor status
PAUL CROWLEY & CO has announced that Beth Strickland has achieved her full Duty Solicitor qualification within a year of joining the firm.
Beth joined PC&Co last August, moving from a civil law background into criminal defence – an area in which she had long held a strong professional interest.
Since joining the Liverpool-based firm’s Criminal Defence Department, she has completed her police station accreditation, a demanding qualification which enables solicitors to advise and represent clients detained at a police station.
She has now gone on to secure full Duty Solicitor status, allowing her to represent clients at key stages of the criminal justice process.
The achievement marks a significant step in Beth’s career and reflects a period of rapid progression since joining PC&Co.
The firm, which was recently recognised as a Sunday Times Best Place to Work, said Beth’s qualification further strengthens its Criminal Defence Department.
Beth’s work in the department includes supporting clients through often complex and sensitive legal matters, with her new qualification expanding the range of cases and stages of proceedings in which she can now provide representation.
An invitation to a Watch
Valuation Day
Malmaison Hotel, 7 William
Jessop Way, Liverpool, L3 1QZ
Tuesday, 28th July 2026 with Ben Wright, Antiques Roadshow Watch Specialist
I’ll be giving free valuations for your wristwatch or pocket watch, with the option to sell if the price is right for you. From 10am to 5pm, simply turn up or call or email to make an appointment. 07814 757742
ben@benwrightvintagewatches.co.uk
Roarsome Dino Takeover coming to World Museum this summer
Meet giant dinosaur puppets and get hands on with crafts in a summer full of interactive family fun
SUMMER 2026 is set to be a roarsome one at World Museum, as dinosaurs prepare to take over on Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout July and August.
A packed programme of interactive fun, hands-on crafts and dino magic will see a whole host of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Life-like dinosaur puppets of various sizes will appear in the museum on Wednesdays and Thursdays, moving through the galleries as part of the programme. Visitors will be able to see larger puppets alongside smaller baby dinosaurs, with additional activities including storytelling sessions and opportunities to meet the puppets.
Alongside this, the museum will offer craft workshops, sensory play sessions for under-5s, and events led by museum experts exploring prehistoric life and other wildlife. A relaxed after-hours session will also take place for children and families with neurodiverse conditions or additional needs.
The programme also features the newly reopened Wild World: Dinosaurs and Natural History gallery on the fourth floor, which includes full-size replica dinosaur skeletons such as Allosaurus and Neovenator, alongside displays exploring Liverpool’s ancient mudflats and animals from polar and forest environments.
Meet the Dinosaurs
Wednesdays and Thursdays in July and August, from Wednesday 22 July; Shows at 10am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm; Free
Come face to face with giant dinosaurs including Zuki the Stegosaurus and Salsa the Megalosaurus, enjoy fun shows, and meet adorable baby dinos – perfect for photos! Suitable for all ages.
Little Dinosaurs
Thursdays in July and August, from Thursday 23 July – 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm; £1.75 per child
Stomp along with your little explorers for sensory play, puzzles, crafting and a whole lot of dinosaur-themed fun.
Squish-a-Saurus Crafts
Thursdays in July and August, from Thursday 23 July – 10:30am-12:30pm and 1:30pm3:30pm; Free
Join the creative museum team us for some roarsome crafts. Squash, chop and mould model magic into pre-historic creatures to take home.
Meet the Curator
Wednesdays in July and August, from Wednesday 22 July, 2 and 2.30pm; Free World Museum experts will be based in the Clore Natural History Centre over the summer, sharing insights into herbivorous dinosaurs, prehistoric insects, giant birds, folklore and fossils.
For the love of Dinosaurs with Splatter & Stick
Wednesday 12 August, 10-11.30am; £1.75 per child
Splatter and Stick offers an inclusive environment specifically tailored for SEND and neurodivergent children and their families with the aim to develop a child’s self confidence, natural exploration skills, hand eye co-ordination and manual dexterity through the exploration of arts and crafts with Sensory Play.
After Hours: Relaxed Dino Dig
Thursday 13 August, 5:15-7pm; £1.75 per child
The World Museum is a great place to visit during the summer holidays, but busy galleries can be overwhelming for some families. To provide a more relaxed experience, the museum will be opening its doors after hours for families with children aged 4+ who have members with an autism spectrum condition or other conditions that make quieter visits preferable.
Junk-a-Saurus Crafts
Wednesdays in July and August, from Wednesday 22 July – 10:30am-12:30pm and 1:30-3:30pm; Free, drop-in
Visitors can join the team every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays for roarsome crafts. The museum’s creative team will be on hand to help participants cut, stick and tape recycled materials together to create their own wearable dinosaur costume to take home.
Dino Takeover runs from 22 July – 27 August 2026 at World Museum. To view the full programme, visit liverpoolmuseums.org.uk
pantry
with for
Get ready to say goodbye to overpacked shelves, and ‘hej’ to neatly organised food storage that helps you store more, reduce waste, save money, and get dinner on the table a whole lot quicker room more
Forget me nots – activated!
We’ve all uncovered a potato that’s grown legs, spaghetti scattered across a drawer, or a tin of tomatoes that’s well past its sell-by date. The good news is, today’s pantry has come a long way from the traditional kind, now smarter than ever, with clever food storage solutions designed to store every type of food, in every size of space.
Inspired by traditional larders, created to keep food fresh long before refrigerators, modern pantries focus on practical, wellorganised storage that keeps everything visible and within easy reach. The result? Less waste, fewer forgotten ingredients, and more money saved, no matter the size of your kitchen.
The walk-in pantry
Whether it’s a dedicated room off the kitchen, or hiding out in the garage or basement, the walk-in pantry is a dream for anyone who loves the feeling of being stocked up. Not only does it give you space to buy in bulk and preserve food, you can also easily see what ingredients you’ve got for today’s menu. The catch? These spaces are often smaller than you think, so a little organisation goes a long way.
That’s where flexible shelving comes in. By making the most of the room’s height and wall space, you can make space for everything from pasta and cereal to snacks, veggies and those ‘just in case’ extras – without anything getting lost at the back. And don’t forget
the small add-ons like rails, hooks, clips and baskets – the unsung heroes that help you make the most of every last inch.
Give your cupboards a glow-up
Most of us don’t have the space to dedicate an entire room to food storage – and that’s OK. With a little clever thinking, a simple kitchen cupboard can work wonders, storing far more than you might expect.
Shelves are a great start, but it’s the smart additions that turn a cupboard into a truly hard-working pantry. Door-mounted brackets and hidden drawers keep everyday favourites
close at hand, and inserts maximise the height between shelves.
No wasted space, no forgotten ingredients, and no more bracing yourself when you open the door, just a cupboard that makes everyday meal prep a whole lot easier.
Divide
and conquer
From wide drawers organised with dividers, to extra-slim shelf inserts that make use of every last millimetre of the space, drawers are brilliant for keeping everything from flour to pasta tidy and within reach.
£25
£5
To find everything in an instant, lay spices flat so labels don’t turn into a guessing game, and store dried foods in containers with clear or clearly marked lids – so you can keep everything fresh and see what you have from above, without rummaging around or accidentally buying your fourth jar of pickles.
£10
£73
Corners, countertops, walls and wheels
The good news? Almost any part of your kitchen can pull its weight when it comes to food storage.
Spare wall space? Add shelves and a rail with hooks for an instant spot for pulses, netted bags of fruit, and other popular items. Vertical, tiered units on the countertop keep key ingredients close at hand, while a trusty trolley is ideal for keeping all your breakfast staples in one place and easing the morning rush!
Small storage items
Once you’ve decided where everything lives, choosing the right container is what makes it all work. From jars and netted bags to airtight, see-through containers designed to fit neatly into shelves, drawers and cupboards, we have everything you need to keep your ingredients fresh, organised and easy to find, every day.
So you can spend less time shopping and hunting for ingredients, and more time enjoying tasty mealtimes together.
Vaginal dryness, atrophy or bladder leaks?
Intimate health is one of those subjects many women put off talking about – but you really don’t have to
If you have experienced intimate dryness, vaginal atrophy, discomfort during intimacy, mild bladder leaks, pelvic floor weakness or changes after childbirth or menopause, Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics can offer discreet, supportive advice and treatment options tailored to you.
Amanda Azzopardi, founder of Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics, has over 10 years’ experience as a women’s health specialist and midwife. She understands how personal these concerns can feel, and creates a safe, private space to talk through what has been affecting you.
The treatments we offer EVA™ Radiofrequency This treatment uses radiofrequency technology to support intimate tissue health and may help with concerns such as dryness, laxity and discomfort.
“Intimate health treatments empower confidence and enhance wellbeing.”
It is designed to be gentle, discreet and suitable for women experiencing changes linked to ageing, hormones, childbirth or menopause.
Pelvio Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic floor weakness can affect bladder control, confidence and quality of life.
Pelvio is a non-invasive treatment designed to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, supporting women who may experience mild leaks when coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercising.
You remain fully clothed and comfortable while the Pelvio Chair delivers electromagnetic energy to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles. Each 28-minute session is equivalent to 12,000 Kegel exercises.
Intimate Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are used to support tissue quality, hydration and regeneration.
Ask Amanda
Book a discreet consultation Call 0151 558 0742 or email contact@ amandaazzopardi.co.uk
For intimate health, they may be considered where women are experiencing changes in comfort, sensitivity, dryness or overall tissue condition.
Intimate Dermal Filler
In some cases, intimate dermal filler may be used to help restore volume, support structure and improve comfort in the intimate area.
What happens first?
Everything starts with a private consultation.
There is no embarrassment and no judgement - simply a conversation about what has been bothering you and what you would like to improve.
Amanda will talk you through the most suitable options, explain what each treatment involves and create a plan that feels right for you.
New homes taking shape at Cheshire’s emerging garden village
From £350,000
A NEW DEVELOPMENT from David Wilson Homes brings three, four and five-bedroom homes to a location combining countryside charm with strong transport links.
Positioned between Liverpool and Manchester, Queens Reach is part of Daresbury Garden Village, a wider masterplan for a sustainable new community incorporating green space, improved infrastructure and facilities to support future growth.
With the sales centre and show homes now open, prospective buyers can take their first look at the homes and the wider plans for the development.
Queens Reach offers a mix of property styles, from contemporary mews homes to larger detached family houses, with layouts designed to suit modern living. Open-plan kitchen and dining spaces, flexible living areas and energyefficient features are included across the range, reflecting growing demand for homes that balance practicality with lower day-to-day running costs.
The scheme sits at the heart of Daresbury Garden Village, where residents will have access to 3.8 acres of open space, a children’s play area and pedestrian links connecting to the wider community. The broader masterplan includes additional green space, community facilities and walking and cycling routes intended to encourage active travel and outdoor living.
Its location also places residents within easy reach of Liverpool, Manchester and Chester via the motorway network and nearby rail services, making it well suited to commuters while offering a quieter setting than many urban developments.
Claire Jarvis, managing director at David Wilson Homes North West, says: “Queens Reach represents a wonderful opportunity for buyers to be part of a brand new community from the very beginning.
“With the sales centre now open, visitors can start to picture their future here and take advantage of the chance to secure their preferred property early.”
The launch of Queens Reach also coincides with continued investment in Daresbury Garden Village, with £11.5 million allocated towards infrastructure improvements that will support the long-term growth of the community.
For more information, visit: www.dwh.co.uk/new-homes/ dev003096-queens-reach/
Antiques Roadshow watch expert to host free valuation event in Liverpool
Ben Wright is a regular contributor to the long-running BBC programme
INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED watch specialist and BBC Antiques Roadshow expert Ben Wright is inviting people in Liverpool to have their wristwatches and pocket watches valued for free this month.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Ben in person, discuss their timepieces and receive a valuation, with the option to sell on the day if an offer is accepted.
Ben began working with wrist and pocket watches in the mid-1980s, starting out as a junior cataloguer at Christie’s. During his career there he progressed through the clock and watch department, working on cataloguing and auctions internationally, including in Geneva, Hong Kong and New York, before eventually becoming head of department and an auctioneer.
He left Christie’s in 2006 to establish his own business, continuing to buy and sell vintage timepieces and work with collectors around the world, and is particularly known for handling pieces from leading makers including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Tudor.
Ben joined the Antiques Roadshow in 2005 as a specialist. One of the more remarkable items he has encountered was a Rolex watch that had been ordered by – and delivered to – a prisoner of war in Germany during the Second World War.
The Watch Valuation Day will take place at the Malmaison Hotel on 28 July, from 10am to 5pm. Visitors can simply turn up with their wristwatches or pocket watches, or arrange an appointment in advance by phone or email.
Lavender’s blue...
Heather
Marsh
celebrates a
garden
favourite that truly comes into its own when the heat is on
WITH RECENT HEATWAVES proving difficult for most of us to cope with, let alone our gardens, it is hardy, drought-resistant plants like lavender that really prove themselves and come into their own.
In my book, no garden should be without a lavender plant or two. This aromatic evergreen shrub, with fragrant flowers in shades of purple, blue, pink and even white, lasts all summer long and works so hard to earn its keep.
Growing lavender
With hundreds of varieties of lavender available, the most popular types grown in the UK are English lavenders – Lavandula angustifolia – and the hybrid lavandins, Lavandula x intermedia, which are larger, more vigorous varieties. ‘Grosso’ and ‘Phenomenal’ are among the most popular to grow.
These are the varieties best suited to UK gardens, as they are cold hardy and more robust compared with their French and Spanish cousins. While English lavenders can survive outdoors even in the coldest parts of the country, French lavenders tend to be slightly more tender and are better suited to milder areas, or simply grown in pots so they can be moved to a more sheltered spot during the winter months.
The most well-known and widely grown English varieties include ‘Hidcote’, probably the most classic and iconic English lavender. It is compact, with deep violet flowers, and is ideal for low-growing hedges. ‘Munstead’ is an earlier-flowering variety with paler blue flowers, while ‘Miss Katherine’ is a newer, award-winning lavender with soft pink blooms.
A native of the Mediterranean, lavender is very easy to grow and makes few demands other than a sunny location, free-draining soil and the odd bit of rain. It thrives in pots and containers, on sunny balconies and in gravel gardens.
Lavenders are the ultimate sun lovers, thriving in poor, sandy, freedraining soil that mimics their native Mediterranean environment.
1. ‘Hidcote Blue’ Lavender
• Flowers: Spikes of rich purple-blue
• Flowering: June/July to September
• Scent: Strong
• Height x spread: 60cm x 60cm
• Flowers for cutting and drying
2. ‘Munstead’ Lavender
• Flowers: Pale lilac-purple spikes
• Flowering: June/July to September
• Scent: Strong,
• Height x spread: 60cm x 60cms
• Culinary herb
3. ‘Provençal’ French Lavender
• Height: 1m
• Scent: Strong lavender scent
Flowering: May to July/ August
4. ‘Grosso’ Lavender
• Flowering: July to September
• Scent: Strong, lavender
• Height x spread: 90cm x 90cm
5. Violet-blue Lavender / ‘Lavandin’
• Early Flowering
• Flowering: May to August
• Scent: Strong, lavender
• Height x spread: 75cm x 75cm
• Unappealing to deer, rodents
How to prune lavender
Pruning lavender is essential to keep it healthy, compact and under control, preventing it from becoming leggy or woody.
An end-of-summer trim to remove spent flowers is fine, especially if you are growing lavender as a hedge. Personally, I like to leave mine intact over winter before giving the plants a good trim and tidy in early spring.
When pruning, be careful not to cut into old, bare wood, as this will not usually grow back. English lavender can live for around 10 to 15 years, while French types tend to be shorter-lived, lasting around five years.
A bee-friendly favourite
If, like me, you love watching bees go about
Lavender farms
With the school holidays almost upon us, why not visit a lavender farm? It is an amazing visual and sensory experience for everyone to enjoy.
It’s no surprise that the Garden of England is home to one of the country’s loveliest lavender fields. Castle Farm (above), a family-run lavender farm near Sevenoaks in Kent, is also one of the UK’s largest.
Spanning 1,100 acres, the farm features stunning, neatly
their business, you will know they are drawn to lavender like a magnet.
Bees see in ultraviolet blue, which makes them strongly attracted to lavender’s blue, pollen-rich flowers. With their long-lasting flower spikes, lavenders provide a plentiful source of sweet nectar, attracting not only bees but butterflies throughout the summer months.
Lavender produces particularly nutritious nectar and pollen, providing essential energy for worker bees. How wonderful, then, that by growing this beautiful plant, we are also helping to support biodiversity.
While all types of lavender are known to attract bees, research by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) found that
planted rows of lavender to admire, with visitors able to bring their own picnic to enjoy among the flowers. You can also take part in wellbeing-boosting breathwork sessions or lavender wreath-making workshops, before visiting the on-site shop, which sells lavender soaps, candles and, of course, plants to grow in your own garden.
Tickets for the summer 2026 season are on sale now, with the lavender expected to be in bloom from early June to late July. Book ahead via the Castle Farm website.
France, meanwhile, has three main lavender-producing regions, with many of the bestknown fields found in Provence, particularly around the Luberon and Verdon plateaus. Several producers cultivate lavender in the Pays d’Apt, in the heart of the Luberon. Taking the road to Buoux, you can stop at the Agnels distillery near Claparèdes, where visitors can learn more about
Bee honey wise
The owners of Hampshire’s Lavender Fields have been growing this plant for many years and have built up a wealth of knowledge in growing, harvesting and distillation.
This honey is produced by their resident bees, which feed on wildflowers and lavender, giving it a subtle floral flavour. It is all-natural and unprocessed.
Lavender Fields Honey £7.25; thelavenderfields.co.uk
Lavandula x intermedia, also known as lavandin, and English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, are especially successful varieties. One last point I would really like to emphasise is that the bees that visit your lavender are really very busy and solely intent on doing their job of collecting nectar and pollen, they are non-aggressive, unless you directly and clearly threaten them. Please remember and respect that.
the distillation of this beautiful purple flower and enjoy the surrounding lavender fields.
Two other famous French lavender spots can be found between Cavaillon and Apt. In Gordes, the Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque (below) is surrounded by lavender plants, creating one of Provence’s most photographed views.
In Cabrières-d’Avignon, the Lavender Museum Luberon reveals the secrets behind this iconic crop and its deep connection to Provence. It is a must-visit stop on any lavender road trip through the region.
Ways with lavender
Lavender is best known for its calming, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Its natural compounds can help ease stress, support better sleep and soothe nervous tension. It is also commonly used to calm irritated skin, reduce blemishes, ease mild headaches, relieve muscle aches and repel insects.
Lavender oil can be added to a diffuser, diluted and applied to the temples, mixed with bath salts for a relaxing soak, or used in skincare products. Dried lavender flowers can also be used sparingly in baking, teas and syrups.
Are you a landlord or a property seller? THEN GET IN TOUCH!
Mistoria Estate Agents Liverpool is a full-service sales and lettings agency that offer free expert advice and top-quality service, for your property’s needs and requirements.
Sarah Boothroyd, Branch Manager Mistoria Estate Agents Liverpool
LANDLORDS
Let-only or fully managed
HMO specialists
Support for rental portfolios
Exposure to prospective tenants
SELLERS
Residential sales advice
Strong marketing
Guidance from start to finish
Public sale available
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Find out why our landlords and sellers choose Mistoria.
Beyond the Numbers – A Practical Guide to Mortgage Affordability
Think your income is all that matters? Martin Green explains the factors lenders consider when deciding how much you can borrow
My name is Martin Green from J&M Green Mortgage Services Limited on. With over 20 years’ experience and having helped arrange in excess of 10,000 mortgages, one of the most common questions I’m asked is: ‘How much can I borrow?’
The honest answer is that mortgage affordability can be an absolute minefield. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, part-time or full-time, every lender has its own way of assessing your income, and those criteria can even change between
very different maximum loan amounts. This is why speaking to an independent mortgage adviser can be so valuable, as matching the right lender to your circumstances can significantly increase your borrowing potential.
Not all income is treated equally. Basic salary is generally straightforward, but when it comes to overtime, commission, bonuses, allowances or self-employed income, every lender has its own rules. Some will use 100% of additional income, while others may only use a percentage
obtaining an Agreement in Principle and submitting a full mortgage application.
As a general rule, your mortgageable income is typically assessed at around 4.5 to 5.5 times your annual income by most lenders. While this provides a useful starting point, many other factors can significantly increase or reduce the amount you’re able to borrow.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that every lender will offer exactly the same borrowing amount. In reality, each lender has its own affordability calculator, using different criteria and assumptions to assess an application. Two lenders looking at exactly the same income, expenditure and credit profile can produce
or require a longer track record before taking it into account. Self-employed applicants may also find that lenders assess salary, dividends, net profit or retained profits differently. Understanding how your income is assessed can make a substantial difference to the amount you’re able to borrow.
Your income is only one part of the affordability calculation. Lenders will also carefully consider your existing financial commitments, including personal loans, credit cards, car finance and other regular repayments. They’ll also take into account the number of financial dependants you have. Even relatively modest monthly commitments can reduce the amount a
lender is prepared to offer, so reviewing your finances before applying can often improve your mortgage options.
With some lenders, choosing a fiveyear fixed-rate mortgage rather than a two-year deal can actually improve your affordability. This is because many lenders apply lower affordability stress tests to longer-term fixed-rate products, providing greater certainty over your future monthly payments. While a five-year fix won’t be the right option for everyone, it can be a useful solution for buyers who need to maximise their borrowing potential. It’s important to weigh up the increased affordability against factors such as early repayment charges and your future plans.
For buyers struggling to meet affordability on their own, a Joint Borrower Sole Proprietor (JBSP) mortgage can be an excellent solution. This allows a family member, often a parent, to support the application by adding their income to improve affordability without becoming a legal owner of the property. It can be particularly helpful for first-time buyers and younger applicants whose income alone isn’t quite enough. As with any specialist mortgage, it’s important to fully understand the responsibilities for everyone involved and seek professional advice before proceeding.
Mortgage affordability is about far more than simply multiplying your salary. Every lender has its own approach, and small differences in the way your income and outgoings are assessed can have a significant impact on how much you’re able to borrow. Taking advice from an experienced independent mortgage adviser can help you understand your options, avoid unnecessary setbacks and give you the best chance of securing the right mortgage for your circumstances.
New padel and fitness destination to open in Liverpool
Club Mona, near the Titanic Hotel, will span almost 40,000 sq ft
A MAJOR NEW PADEL, wellness and lifestyle destination is coming to Liverpool.
Club Mona, located on Bentinck Street, will combine padel courts with fitness, recovery, wellness and social spaces.
The development will include indoor courts, a gym, studios for HIIT, yoga and pilates, as well as recovery facilities such as saunas, ice baths and wider wellness treatments.
Founded by brothers Luis, Lloyd and Jordan Stockton, alongside Steven Granite of Applied Nutrition, the project is being developed as a multi-use space for sport, training, work and socialising.
The ground floor of Club Mona will feature eight indoor padel courts alongside a premium lounge and co-working area, café-style social spaces, changing facilities, a dedicated recovery suite with hot and cold plunges and sauna facilities, plus a nutrition, equipment and accessories store.
Alongside its fitness and wellness offering, Club Mona plans to host regular community events, brand activations and social programming designed to create an inclusive and connected atmosphere around the club.
Club Mona is expected to open by early 2027.
Thousands flock to Sefton Park as Africa Oyé returns
Festival has grown from a series of city centre gigs into the UK’s largest celebration of African music and culture
AFRICA OYÉ RETURNED TO SEFTON PARK in June, with the festival taking place for the first time as a ticketed event.
Thousands attended across the weekend of 20 and 21 June, with Saturday selling out. The main stage featured artists from across the African continent, including Oumy, King Ayisoba, Ghorwane and Kizaba, before Nigerian singer Patoranking headlined the opening day.
Movema and the Afro Dance Academy hosted two days of activities in the festival’s new Family Zone, offering dance workshops, arts and crafts, singing sessions and other activities for children and families. On Sunday, the Dancing Queens and Katumba carnival groups made their way through the festival site with a colourful procession.
The Trenchtown DJ Stage once again showcased DJs and selectors from Liverpool and beyond, with performances from Decks in the City, Amber Rose and others across the weekend.
Sunday’s main stage programme included performances from the Awale Jant Band, Kobo Town, Fulu Miziki and British reggae singer Janet Kay, before Malian musician Fatoumata Diawara brought the festival to a close.
What’s on...
Events not to be missed over the next four weeks
Liverpool Pride 24-25 July
Saved by LGBTQ+ charity Sahir after its future was thrown into doubt, this vibrant celebration returns with an opening party at M&S Bank Arena featuring Sugababes and Beth Ditto, followed by a colourful city centre march, community programming, nightlife and plenty of opportunities to champion inclusivity, diversity and equality in a welcoming atmosphere.
10-11 Jul An Evening with Ricky Tomlinson, Shakespeare North Playhouse
11 Jul Fiji v England, Hill Dickinson Stadium
Until 18 Jul Taking the Piste: The Unbelievably True Story of the Kirkby Ski Slope, Royal Court
12-19 Jul The 154th Open, Royal Birkdale
24 & 25 Jul Deaf School: 2nd Honeymoon 50th Anniversary, Philharmonic Hall
1 Aug The Cheap Thrills, Mountford Hall
Penny Lane Weekender 2026 7-9 August
Lovingly conceived in 2023 by Liverpool post-punk band Pleasure Island, this grassroots festival gives the opportunity for Liverpool bands and independent acts from further afield to showcase their talents to the local community of Penny Lane and the surrounding areas.
