INSIDE
Race day outfits
Jon Atkinson on wine
How to light your home
Clockworks review
Donovan
Aussie icon celebrates 35 years of pop and stage hits with special Philharmonic show
March
Hello and welcome to the March edition of YM Liverpool!
First up, I’m thrilled to share my chat with bona fide entertainment icon Jason Donovan, who is celebrating 35 years of pop and stage hits at the Philharmonic Hall this month
The ‘Too Many Broken Hearts’ singer and former Neighbours star reveals the key to his longevity, reflects on the changes he’s witnessed in showbiz over the past three decades, and recalls the pleasures of a lunchtime visit to Lark Lane.
Elsewhere, the John Lewis team shares tips on showcasing each of your home’s distinct spaces in their best light, while IKEA invites us to hop into spring with its vibrant TJÄRLEK collection.
Meanwhile, on the property front, YML was present as a Liverpool FC legend helped launch new show homes at Prospect’s Abbey Vale development in Widnes and we take a closer look at a stylish yet super-practical three-bed semi in Maghull.
Plus, our fashion editor Annie S shares her outfit picks for Aintree, WineTime’s Jon Atkinson presents his jargon-busting guide to tasting notes, and Will Carr checks out the recently relaunched Clockworks restaurant at Wolstenholme Square.
Until next time!
Editor Lawrence Saunders editor@ymliverpool.com
Design Marten Sealby
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LAWRENCE SAUNDERS Editor
moment More than a
Australian entertainment icon Jason Donovan is in Liverpool this month to celebrate 35 years of pop and stage hits with his new tour, Doin’ Fine 25. The ‘Too Many Broken Hearts’ singer reveals the key to his longevity, reflects on the changes he’s seen in showbiz over the past three decades, and recalls the pleasures of a lunchtime visit to Lark Lane words lawrence saunders
You’ve gone straight into this new solo tour after appearing once again as Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show. How do you manage such an intense schedule? Ideally, I should have taken a week in the sun somewhere – that’s always a good idea. But there’s also an argument for staying match fit. I did have a good break over Christmas – five weeks off. My own show runs two nights on, one night off, so in a way, it’s intense. But when you’ve done theatre and performed eight shows a week, that’s a real discipline. But look, I tour well, so I can’t really complain.
Doin’ Fine 25 arrives at the Philharmonic Hall on 22 March, following shows in cities like London, Glasgow, Salford, and Edinburgh. Do you enjoy performing in Liverpool?
I like Liverpool. I’m really excited about the redevelopment happening down at the old dock area near the Titanic Hotel and the new football stadium. I think it’s going to make a real difference to the city. There’s a lot of opportunity along the riverfront, and I can see that [potential].
My daughter’s boyfriend (former Hollyoaks star Owen Warner) lives in Liverpool, and they took me to Lark Lane. We had lunch at a great little restaurant – it had a real vibe to it, which I hadn’t experienced there before. After that, we went to Sefton Park. It was a shit day weather-wise, but it was still a cool experience!
daughter wouldn’t even know what Strictly Come Dancing was if she hadn’t seen it in the press. The switch from analogue to digital was huge, and then you have things like Neighbours being axed and then recommissioned!
The way media is distributed will always evolve, but a great song, a great movie, or a great story will always have a place. It’s just the way we consume entertainment that’s changed.
The title of the tour is a callback to your first-ever tour, Doin’ Fine 90. Why did you want to pay homage to that chapter of your career?
We were searching for a title for the tour a couple of years ago. We went through a number of options and eventually landed on Doin’ Fine because it connects with the past while also sending a positive message –it’s a great little title.
The Doin’ Fine 90 tour was a turning point – I needed to learn my craft if I was going to be a serious player in live music.
The new tour celebrates your 35-year career in music and theatre. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve noticed in the entertainment industry over that time? There are so many! Television isn’t what it used to be. My youngest
As I’ve done interviews, I’ve gradually worked out how the title resonates with me. I could have called it the ‘Greatest Hits’ tour, the ‘Showman’ tour, or even the ‘Any Dream Will Do’ tour –there were plenty of options. But I chose Doin’ Fine because it represents 35 years of live shows.
Live performance has become my go-to. The Doin’ Fine 90 tour was a turning point – it took me out of the whole Stock Aitken Waterman machine and brought me back to my roots. I needed to learn my craft if I was going to be a serious player in live music. Andrew Lloyd Webber came to one of the shows with his daughter, and that moment led to me landing Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. That changed everything again – it reinforced my need to invest in my craft. Hopefully, that’s why I’m still doing this after 35 years. Fame is just a by-product of what I do. At my core, I act, sing, perform, and entertain.
Despite all the positives that came from it, is it true that your record label initially advised against the Doin’ Fine 90 tour?
That’s true. It’s a bit different now because people don’t make money from records the way they used to – touring is really the only way to sustain a career. But back then, the record company’s argument was, ‘You need to promote our records’.
In those days, you had to be ready at a moment’s notice to fly to Italy, France, Germany, or the U.S. Once you locked into a tour, it was late nights and that full-on band/rock lifestyle. And to a certain degree, the record company was right.
The problem was – and this isn’t a criticism because Between the Lines was hugely successful, and I’m very grateful – but promoting a record isn’t a long-term vision. The real foundation of a career is in the craft, not just a quick recording. There’s a lot more to it than just that moment.
That’s what my manager and I recognised back in the late ’80s – we needed to get back to what it was really about.
Do you think some of the other acts associated with Stock Aitken Waterman missed a trick by not getting out there and touring like you did?
I think most of them probably wanted to tour. My platform, coming from Neighbours, was extraordinary – just like Kylie’s. Television gave me the opportunity, with 23 million people watching every day, to do things that other artists probably didn’t have the chance to do.
Back then, there were no Let’s Rock or Rewind festivals, but there was The Hitman and Her roadshow! And that proves the point –Pete (Waterman) himself recognised that creating headlines with The Hitman and Her was all about live performances.
Television
gave me the opportunity, with 23 million people watching every day, to do things that other artists probably didn’t have the chance to do.
Stock Aitken Waterman were incredible producers, but they were recording producers. A long-term career is built on live work. Rick (Astley) was a musician, and Kylie was a decent singer. I didn’t come into the business as a singer – I came in as an actor, so I really had to dig deep in those early years, and that wasn’t easy.
But after doing things like the Doin’ Fine tour and Joseph, live performance has become a big part of what I do. And 35 years on, I’m singing and performing better than I ever have.
Does being on stage feel different now compared to 1990? Do you still love performing as much as you did back then?
I feel different, but it doesn’t feel different. It’s all about discipline. I’ve done a lot of shows now – probably more than most because I’m a hard worker. I’m probably unique, especially in the musical theatre world, as someone with my background who continues to do this type of work.
There are titles like Rocky Horror and Joseph where revisiting them has been fantastic. I feel comfortable with them; I own them, and I’ve got nothing to prove. So, bring it on. I’m at a stage in my life where I can pick and choose what I do. It’s nice to have more control.
Jason Donovan plays the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on 22 March
Liverpool FC legend and Mayor help open new Widnes show homes
Prospect’s Abbey Vale will invest over £600k into the local community
THE MAYOR AND MAYORESS of Halton, along with Liverpool FC legend John Aldridge, have officially opened new show homes at Prospect’s Abbey Vale development in Widnes.
Located on South Lane, Abbey Vale has two fully furnished show homes, the threebedroom Croston and the four-bedroom Whalley, for prospective buyers to view.
Sam Palin, head of sales at Prospect Homes, says: “We were honoured to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress to Abbey Vale for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Having football legend John Aldridge meet prospective buyers and families who have reserved homes added a special touch to the event.
“Abbey Vale offers the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and urban convenience, making it ideal for growing families and downsizers. Our homes feature wellproportioned, stylish living spaces set in a beautiful, leafy-green environment.
“Customers can now see the quality of our homes including the various upgrades and
extras available and picture themselves living at Abbey Vale.”
Mayor of Halton, Kevan Wainwright, adds: “Opening this new development is a pleasure, as it will provide much-needed homes in Widnes.
“In addition to offering three- and fourbedroom private sale homes, the development will invest over £600,000 into the local community. All profits from house sales will support the Riverside Group’s charitable initiatives.”
Homes at Abbey Vale start from £310,000. The three-bedroom semi-detached Newton, features an open-plan kitchen/dining room,
a separate lounge, and a cloakroom on the ground floor. The first floor includes two double bedrooms, one with an en-suite, a single bedroom, and a family bathroom.
For homebuyers looking for a larger home there is The Cleveley which boasts an open plan kitchen/dining area, a separate utility room, cloakroom and lounge. The ground floor is completed with an integral single garage. Upstairs are four bedrooms, all of them doubles, the main bedroom having an en-suite plus a family bathroom.
The show homes and sales office are open Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5pm.
Law firm supports Jade L Roberts Project
Donation will help the organisation continue with its essential work
Views sought on upgrades to Liverpool’s Chinatown
Aim is to attract more visitors and investment, and create a neighbourhood ‘to be proud of’
A CONSULTATION ON PROPOSED PUBLIC REALM improvements in the Chinatown area of Liverpool city centre is under way.
Liverpool City Council has developed outline plans for Great George’s Square at the junction of Upper Pitt Street and Nelson Street.
The centrepiece of the project will be the installation of two stone lions, which have been donated by the Chinese Consulate General in Manchester and were formally handed over to Liverpool in January to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Liverpool-Shanghai sister cities relationship.
The scheme will also see:
• Better pedestrian access between Upper Pitt Street/Nelson Street and Great George’s Square
• Installation of a red maple ‘wishing tree’ and ‘flower mat’ near the lions
• Improvements to the children’s playground
• The creation of a commemorative memorial garden
It is hoped the work will be completed in early 2026.
Comments on the consultation can be made at: liverpool.gov.uk/ chinatowndevelopment until 31 March.
PAUL CROWLEY & CO
SOLICITORS has pledged its support to a local suicide prevention organisation that has helped save more than 700 lives in the past two years.
The Jade L Roberts Project was founded in memory of Tracey Roberts’ daughter, Jade, who tragically took her own life at just 26, and provides essential support for those struggling with mental health issues and those in suicidal crisis.
Jack, a suicide prevention worker and brother of Jade, along with Annie Martin, a voluntary mental health support worker, recently visited PC&Co’s offices to accept a cheque from director, Dan Griffiths.
Jack says: “The support from Paul Crowley & Co and other businesses in the Merseyside area has a significant impact on the work the team do and helps us continue to provide life-saving services to those in need.”
Dan adds: “We are honoured to support the Jade L Roberts Project. Their dedication to saving lives and providing crucial mental health support is truly inspiring, having witnessed first-hand the impact suicide can have on loved ones, I hope our contribution will help them continue their vital work.”
Motorcycle accident claims –Consult the legal experts
Paul Lowry, Head of Personal Injury at Paul Crowley & Co and motorcycle accident claims expert explains how you could be entitled to claim compensation if you have been injured in a motorbike accident
Motorbike riders encounter the risk of accidents and injuries daily on Britain’s roads. Statistically, they face a higher likelihood of serious injury or death in accidents compared to car drivers. Despite comprising less than 1% of traffic, motorcyclists account for about 20% of all road deaths and serious injuries in Great Britain. Moreover, a motorcyclist involved in an accident is approximately 40 times more likely to be killed than a car driver.
Accidents involving motorbike riders and cyclists are all too common
Motorbike riders, through no fault of their own, can suffer serious road injuries often with devastating effects from motorists pulling out in front of them at a junction, or simply because the driver of the car did not see them. Similarly, a motorcyclist can suffer a serious injury if a driver is parked up and opens a car door in front of them or if the motorist is in a stationary position and drives off in front of a passing motorbike rider. All of these accidents can leave a motorbike rider seriously injured.
The motorcycle accident experts
As well as the physical affects a motorcyclist can sustain, our experienced lawyers also understand the psychological trauma suffered by an injured cyclist with many unable to return to work for a considerable length of time, following a
road traffic accident. With this in mind and the added loss of income, it is important that you receive the correct specialist legal advice when making a compensation claim for a motorbike accident.
Paul says: “At Paul Crowley & Co our team of experienced personal injury lawyers have recovered substantial damages for clients injured in complex serious injury claims, with claims settling in excess of £120k for a client injured in a motorbike accident!”.
Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident?
If you are a motorbike rider or a cyclist and have been injured in a road traffic accident that was not your fault, then we are here to help. Our dedicated team have a high level of experience in successfully managing serious injury claims and securing the compensation the injured rider rightfully deserves.
Claim maximum compensation with Paul Crowley & Co
It’s not only the motorbike rider who can claim compensation, Paul Crowley & Co will also seek to recover maximum compensation for any pillion passengers or pedestrians injured in the accident.
Paul Crowley & Co’s team of motorcycle accident experts will also claim for any damage to your motorbike, along with any financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. This will include loss of earnings
and for any ongoing rehabilitation costs that you or your passenger may require.
Our expert lawyers can help you to claim the following compensation:
• Personal injury claim
• Personal injury claims for passengers
• Loss of earnings
• Medical treatments
• Rehabilitation – including physio or psychotherapy
• Arrange the replacement, recovery, or repair of your motorbike – your no claims discount will remain unaffected
• Vehicle replacement whilst your vehicle is repaired
• Damage to motorcycle accessories, including clothing, helmet and any personal belongings
• Any out-of-pocket expenses
Paul Crowley & Co are on your side You will be speaking directly with an experienced motorcycle accident claims specialist, who will discuss the claims process with you and answer any questions you may have.
No Win, No Fee compensation
With our 100% No Win, No Fee compensation, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain, our accident claims experts are waiting to take your call. It will only take a few minutes to decide if you can make a claim and then we will take care of the rest.
Paul Lowry Head of Personal Injury, Paul Crowley & Co
By Will Carr | Steakhouse | ££ | 11 Wolstenholme Sq, L1 4JJ
Behind Concert Square and the clubs lining Seel Street, in a courtyard home to what appears to be a statue commemorating our victory over a race of evil spaghetti aliens, sits Clockworks – a newly revived treasure rescued from the brink by three young entrepreneurs: Rhys Keeley, Jack Ruttledge, and Ethan Cowling.
Housed in an 18th Century warehouse, Clockworks has had a bumpy journey, originally opening in 2017 under different management before closing in January 2023. I wanted to find out whether this location was doomed or if these three young owners had finally made it run like clockwork…
After being warmly welcomed by the staff and guided to our table, we couldn’t help but notice the meticulous effort put into the decor and ambience. The space exuded style, and it felt as if we had stepped into a 1920s jazz bar by accident.
To start, we chose the Bread with Balsamic and Olives (£6.50) and the Halloumi (£6.50). The sourdough had a mild flavour and a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up
The well-seasoned, tender meat was bursting with flavour, its fat beautifully rendered –soft with a slight crisp.
the infused olive oil and rich garlic aioli. The pan-seared halloumi had a subtle spice and paired beautifully with the chili sauce
As Clockworks prides itself on its steaks, I felt compelled to put them to the test by ordering the Ribeye (£30.95), while my partner opted for the Cheese Smash Burger (£19.95). I chose the Cognac Peppercorn Sauce, which offered a rich, complex flavour – though, in hindsight, it wasn’t necessary.
The well-seasoned, tender meat was bursting with flavour, its fat beautifully rendered – soft with a slight crisp. And, to my relief, the chef didn’t storm out of the kitchen to reprimand me for ordering it medium. My partner’s burger struck the perfect balance – sumptuous yet easy to handle. The two Angus beef patties were well-cooked and perfectly complemented the cheese and beef bacon, creating an orchestra of indulgent perfection.
Our first hiccup came with some confusion over the sides – the burger includes one, but the steak does not. This led to an awkward moment when we were asked whether to remove our extra order of fries. My partner’s fries were well-seasoned, infused with Cajun spices, garlic, and herbs. I opted for the Mash and Gravy (£4.95), a rich and buttery side that could elevate any dish on the menu
For dessert my partner liked the look of the Chocolate Brownie (£7.99), and my curiosity
was piqued by the Cherry Tiramisu (£7.99). The brownie, served with a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream was a delicious and warm ending to the meal. One was a quiet night in; the Cherry Tiramisu, a full-blown rave. Served atop a bed of amaretti biscuits, the tart cherry sauce brought an impressive liveliness to the dish – though I soon found myself searching for another biscuit to mellow its intensity.
Overall, the experience was highly enjoyable, and the passion from the staff was undeniable. However, with its higher prices compared to similar restaurants and a somewhat tuckedaway location, I can only hope that word of mouth spreads before time runs out, forcing the restaurant to reset once again.
Draped body polka dot dress
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Gold woven clutch bag
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Clarabelle corseted midi dress
House of CB @ Selfridges
£169
Cat-Eye Acetate Sunglasses
Dolce & Gabbana @ Selfridges
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Races? Off to the
£115
Dress to impress at Liverpool’s biggest social event with Annie S’s stylish outfit ideas
Kira maxi dress
Ro&Zo @ Selfridges
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Balloon sleeve
plunge woven maxi dress
Karen Millen
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Tailored single breasted longline waistcoat
M&S
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Gold clasp box bag
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Floralappliqué maxi dress
H&M
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Woven pleat front wide leg trousers
M&S
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Petal applique
lace woven midi dress
Karen Millen
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Short printed dress
Zara
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Fausto squareframe tortoise acetate sunglasses
Tom Ford @ Selfridges
Long textured earrings
Mango
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Vino lingo 101
Elevate your wine-drinking experience with Jon Atkinson’s jargon-busting guide
I DON’T KNOW WHETHER you spend much time reading wine tasting notes (or pay them any heed, for that matter), but it strikes me that some of the language used by those in the trade could be completely mystifying to the casual or occasional wine drinker. With that in mind, in no particular order, here’s an explanation of some of the most commonly used terms. If there are any not covered here, please feel free to email me at liverpool@ewga.net and I’ll come back to you with an answer.
Acidity: Sounds nasty, but this is essential to give a wine balance and longevity, particularly for whites. Wines that are high in acidity such as young Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc tend to make your mouth water just from their aroma, as your tastebuds anticipate the vibrant, bracing dryness to come. Some grapes are more acidic than others, but this always fades over time. Terms such as ‘vibrant’ or ‘zesty’ imply high acidity. Not enough and the wine will be ‘flabby’!
Balance: Essential in a good wine, as it is in so many things in life. In this context, it means that all the components – such as fruit, alcohol, acidity and tannin – are in harmonious proportions, with nothing sticking out as either excessive or lacking.
Bouquet/aroma: Both terms relate to the smell of the wine, but ‘bouquet’ usually refers to a more evolved, mature wine, where the scents stem from the winemaking and ageing process. In contrast, ‘aroma’ is typically used for younger wines, where the focus is on the fruit and grape variety
Light/medium/full-bodied: Full-bodied wines tend to be bolder, richer and texturally more mouth-filling, with all elements in greater proportions. I like the milk analogy: full-bodied = full cream, mediumbodied = semi-skimmed and light-bodied = skimmed. Examples of fullbodied wines include Amarone, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Barossa Valley Shiraz. Medium-bodied wines include Claret (Bordeaux), Chianti, and Rioja, while light-bodied wines include Beaujolais, Bardolino, and most Pinot Noir.
Tannin: Tannin comes from the skin of the grapes and, along with acidity, acts as a preservative, giving the wine longevity. Once upon a time, this was exclusive to red wines, but with the (gradually) increasing popularity of orange wine, tannins can now also be found
to tasting notes
in ‘whites’ – though rarely to the same degree. As with acidity, tannins soften as the wine ages. When young, they can make a wine feel excessively dry and mouth-puckering – imagine chewing a tea bag! Unctuous: Very much a description of texture, which in my opinion is too often overlooked in the appreciation of wine. Almost exclusively the preserve of dessert wines with (very) high levels of ‘RS’ (see below!). These wines feel rich, decadent and almost oily-textured in the mouth.
RS: Stands for ‘residual sugar’. The winemaking process, like beer, revolves around fermentation: yeast consumes the natural sugars in ripe grapes, generating alcohol, CO₂, and heat. In most reds and dry whites, fermentation is allowed to run its course until all the sugar has been converted into alcohol. In the case of sweeter wines, fermentation is halted either by reducing the temperature or by adding grape spirit (brandy), as the yeast is killed off once the alcohol reaches a certain level. The remaining unfermented sugar is known as ‘RS,’ and the amount of residual sugar determines how sweet the resulting wine will be.
Corked: This one could justify an article of its own, but simply put, this is a term that has become a cover all for a faulty wine.
There are many types of wine faults, with the most common being 2,4,6-Trichloroanisole (TCA), which, thankfully, is much less prevalent these days. Other faults include oxidation, maderisation, reductive odour, and excessive volatile acidity
Linear: This term describes a wine that doesn’t evolve or change in the glass; it finishes just as it started. Linear wines are often, though not always, lacking in complexity.
Mineral: A tricky one to explain or even identify and there is no ‘official’ definition. However, aromas such as gunflint, chalk and wet stone sometimes coupled with a chalky/ powdery texture can be indicative. This is predominantly found in whites, though it can occasionally appear in reds. It is, however, more commonly associated with wines grown in cooler climates. Chablis, Champagne, and Mosel Riesling are often cited as examples.
As this month’s piece is a little more wordy than usual, my recommendations are limited to one white and one red that I’ve particularly enjoyed recently.
Monte Real Rioja Tinto Reserva 2019 This powerful but well-balanced Rioja is 100% Tempranillo from Bodegas Riojanas’ 200-hectare estate at Cenicero in La Rioja Alta. Riojanas are very much specialists in Reserva and Gran Reserva with some 45,000 barrels to be found in their cellars. The Tempranillo is picked by hand and de-stemmed before a gentle pressing. It is then aged for 24 months in barrels which are 50% American and 50% French oak. Near opaque, deep ruby red in colour with a ruby-pink rim and high viscosity. The nose is savoury yet rich, with aromas of tapenade, black olive, spicy plum, and blackberry, complemented by hints of coconut, vanilla, and anchovy. Quite full-bodied, with ripe, juicy tannins and generous dark fruit, leading to a long, slightly spicy finish. £17.75
Domaines Paul Mas ‘Parcelle Belluguette’ Languedoc Blanc 2023 This intriguing blend of 45% Grenache Blanc, 30% Vermentino, 15% Roussanne and 10% Viognier comes from a small vineyard at relatively high altitude. The grapes are picked in the cool early morning to retain freshness and the four varieties are vinified separately, with the Roussanne and Viognier fermented and aged in a 60/40 mix of French and American oak barriques. Brilliant medium lemon-straw with pale gold and silver tints, and medium+ viscosity. A rich, slightly honeyed nose with notes of apricot, quince, barley sugar, and chamomile. Full-bodied and voluptuously textured, with just enough acidity and a warming, toasty oakiness, complemented by vanilla and nutmeg in a long, concentrated finish. £18.25
KEIE and Beetham release new image for £1bn King Edward scheme
Project team remains on target for submitting planning application for a 26-storey ‘pathfinder’ tower
KEIE LIMITED AND BEETHAM have released the most detailed indication yet of the thinking behind their emerging King Edward project in Liverpool.
The image of the £1 billion development, viewed from the Wirral shoreline, illustrates the scale of the project team’s ambition, says Hugh Frost of Beetham.
Hugh says: “Our thinking will continue to evolve as we head towards a Q3 submission for our masterplan, but this image lets the market know that we are intent on delivering a scheme of international significance.”
The CGI, from scheme architects Brock Carmichael, has been produced for a key presentation to investors, end-users and their advisors at MIPIM, the global real estate investment conference held each March in Cannes.
Hugh adds: “We are briefing a select group of guests at MIPIM at a private event and have invited delegates from across the global property market.
“Our ambition is capturing people’s imagination, and we will continue to drive the scheme forward at pace.”
The image updates a recent architect’s drawing and demonstrates the ambition to ‘push the boundaries’ of Liverpool’s tall buildings zone, says project architect Chris Bolland of Liverpool-based Brock Carmichael.
Chris adds: “What you see here shows our confidence that going beyond 50 storeys is
achievable and desirable and our discussions to date with the city council have been highly constructive.”
The project team says it remains ‘on target’ for the submission before easter of a detailed planning application for a ‘pathfinder’ tower of 26 storeys. The tower would anchor the north west corner of the eight-acre development zone and put down a marker for the whole development.
The Liverpool office of development consultancy Pegasus Group is providing planning advice to the consortium. Infinite 3D produced the CGI.
The Learning Foundry launches new home for built environment training
More than £2bn in new city region construction projects are anticipated annually for the next five years
LIVERPOOL-BASED TRAINING PROVIDER The Learning Foundry has opened its second training site, offering courses in construction, green skills, and housing management for individuals aged 16 and above across the Liverpool City Region and beyond.
The launch event was attended by Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram and Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council.
The Skills Centre on Boundary Street in Kirkdale will specialise in creating opportunities for local people, giving them hands on experience that will lead to a range of in-demand skills in the built environment sector.
The Liverpool City Region is experiencing a significant construction
skills gap, with more than £2 billion in new construction projects anticipated annually for the next five years.
The Learning Foundry will use the Skills Centre to deliver programmes for individuals aged 16 and over across the North West, including property maintenance operative apprenticeships, specialist green skills bootcamps, and free feeder programs for young people and adults in the Liverpool City Region.
As part of The Regenda Group, The Learning Foundry is wellpositioned to provide high-quality training to the sector. With the support of the Group, its programmes are shaped by the knowledge and requirements of social housing provider Regenda Homes, construction specialists M&Y Maintenance and Construction, and eco and green skills experts Ecogee.
To register your interest for any of the programmes, visit the Learning Foundry website.
THE RUFFORD AT PERSIMMON’S Summerhill Park is a thoughtfully designed home that blends comfort and practicality seamlessly, without compromising on style.
This three-bedroom semi features a bright, modern open-plan kitchen and dining area at its heart. With French doors opening onto the garden, it’s the perfect space for entertaining and enjoying sociable family meals.
Additional highlights include a welcoming front porch, an inner hallway, a convenient downstairs WC, and built-in storage for everyday convenience. The home also features an en suite to the main bedroom, a modern family bathroom, and a handy garage with direct access from the porch.
Just 10 miles from Liverpool city centre and minutes from schools, shops, and local amenities, Summerhill Park offers the perfect balance of convenience and community. Maghull train station, a short walk from the development, provides regular direct services to Moorfields station in only 25 minutes – ideal for commuters.
Families will love the excellent education options nearby, with Summerhill Primary, Northway Primary, and Deyes High School all within a mile. There are also local nurseries and sixth form colleges in Crosby and Sefton, making this a great long-term home.
For more information about The Rufford or Summerhill Park, call 0151 305 7191 or visit persimmonhomes.com
tips for lighting every room Get lit
Cosy, calming, functional… show each of your home’s distinct spaces in their best light
LIGHTING PLAYS A HUGE ROLE in creating atmosphere anywhere, but it can be hard to know how to choose the right lights to make beautiful home interiors.
A good place to begin is by considering each room’s size and purpose; it might be important to create comforting and inviting lighting in a living room, but a home office calls for functional solutions that are more task-focused.
Creating a lighting scheme is all about layering – meaning combining different kinds of lights and lamps effectively, in order to transform how your home feels.
Here are some bright suggestions to help you get started.
n
LIVING ROOM
Don’t rely on a single light source in the middle of the room. Instead, mix and match multiple lamps to open up the space –think floor lamps in corners and table lamps on sideboards. Well-positioned, decorative designs can create cosy pockets of comforting light, making this a place that you’ll want to curl up in at all times of day.
n BEDROOM
Pagoda XL Reactive Table Lamp
£195
Glass Mushroom Table Lamp
£45
n HOME OFFICE
While it might be tempting to utilise a light that’s positioned over the desk, this causes glare that can lead to eyestrain. Instead, either opt for adjustable lighting that you can angle – which should be placed behind your head – or a pair of desk lamps. Not only will this be easier on your eyes, it’ll also softly illuminate your face for more flattering video calls.
Bedroom lighting has to work hard, satisfying a need for bright, ambient light for practical purposes (such as hunting for socks first thing in the morning) as well as offering a softer, calming glow for late-night reading. The solution: team a central overhead pendant with wall or table lamps on either side of the bed.
£72
£125
Jute Rope Table Lamp
£100
Baldwin Desk Lamp
£60
Millhouse Table Lamp
£95 Nicolas Table Lamp
£85
n HALLWAY
As they tend to be narrow and lacking in plug sockets, hallways and landings can be difficult spaces in which to layer lighting. That said, they offer a great opportunity to make a statement. Uplights add a touch of magic to any space, while a rechargeable lamp will be your saviour for brightening up
Raffia Pendant Ceiling Light
Millhouse Wall Light
£58
£95 Rattan Cordless Rechargeable Table Lamp
£60
n DINING ROOM
If your dining table doubles up as desk space, it has distinctly different lighting demands at various points in the day; it needs to be well-lit during work hours, but transform into an elegant space for evening entertaining. Work out where you mainly need the light to focus or reach, then position dimmable fittings – accessorised with an on-trend raffia pendant ceiling light – overhead. Combine this with table lamps on sideboards to illuminate dark corners.
Raffia Pendant Ceiling Light
£95 Column Table Lamp
£125
Applied Nutrition announces major new partnership with Daniel Dubois
The British heavyweight boxer is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the sport today
Liverpool-based sports nutrition, health, and wellness brand Applied Nutrition has signed Daniel Dubois as its newest ambassador.
The two-year partnership deal will see the IBF heavyweight world champion incorporate Applied’s products into his training routine ahead of his next major fight.
Known for his devastating knockout power and formidable strength, Dubois has rapidly ascended through the ranks with a string of impressive victories, including a dominant win over former world champion Anthony Joshua.
Applied Nutrition offers a diverse range of products designed to support athletes across all disciplines, including premium protein supplements and pre-workouts.
The company has grown from selling one single product from a small shop in Kirkby just nine years ago to now offering more than 100 different products and selling to 65 countries across the world.
As a globally recognised brand, Applied Nutrition has made significant strides in the sports nutrition industry and is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange following a successful IPO.
Thomas Ryder, chief executive officer of Applied Nutrition, says: “We are beyond excited to welcome Daniel Dubois to the Applied Nutrition family as our newest ambassador.
“Daniel embodies the resilience, determination, and ambition that perfectly align with our brand values. As a world-class athlete, Daniel demands nothing but the best to fuel his performance and recovery and that’s where Applied Nutrition comes in.
“We’re proud to support him with our scientifically-backed products as he continues to push boundaries in the ring.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone for us, and we can’t wait to see Daniel excel with Applied Nutrition by his side.”
Daniel Dubois adds: “When my agent, Chris Nathaniel, presented me with a list of nutrition brands interested in partnering with me, Applied Nutrition was my standout choice, having used their products before.
“I am so happy to be working with them and I look to taking over the heavyweight division with Applied Nutrition by my side.”
Fellow Applied Nutrition ambassadors include UFC star Paddy
‘The Baddy’ Pimblett and fitness enthusiast Coleen Rooney, who recently launched a new collection in partnership with the brand.
Applied Nutrition is also the headline sponsor of the British Boxing Awards, taking place in London on 28 March.
The awards are the first of their kind, putting the power in the hands of boxing fans across the country through major public nominations and voting.
Hosted by Ricky Hatton and Nicola Adams, the ceremony will recognise the people, organisations and brands that champion the sport and the great work done to elevate it to what it is today.
“We are beyond excited to welcome Daniel Dubois to the Applied Nutrition family as our newest ambassador.”
Hop into
SPRING
IKEA invites you to jump into the season with TJÄRLEK, a collection that captures the spirit of spring with vibrant colours, hand-painted patterns, and playful shapes
n INVITE SPRING TO THE TABLE
Set a fun spring table with colourful tableware and napkins. “For the TJÄRLEK collection, I wanted to add that little extra that allows you to easily create an inviting table for festive occasions,” says designer Hanna Grann Dalrot. “The objects are inspired by spring when nature bursts with colours and comes to life.”
n MAKE YOUR HOME BLOOM WITH COLOURFUL GLASSWARE
You can use these vases, candlesticks and glasses year after year. These glass items are like jewels for your dining table, but they’re just as beautiful to display too. Let them add a little sparkle, not just to spring celebrations, but to everyday life as well.
n THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR MORE BUNNIES
After a long winter, it’s time to decorate your home with bright colours and playful shapes that match the season’s mood. Go wild in decorating with spring’s eternal icons and feel free to sneak in a little bit of candy.
immersive wellbeing festival
Whether you’re a wellness lover looking for personal health and wellbeing strategies, or a business leader who knows the value of investing in employee wellness, you’ll find your people at Wellness in the City. Welcome to Liverpool’s largest
Back for a third year, and bigger and better than ever – Wellness in the City gathers wellbeing experts from all over the North West and beyond to bring you a day full of insights, inspiration and interactive experiences.
WHY ATTEND?
The Expo offers delegates the opportunity to delve deeper into the many pillars of wellness to inspire and motivate you to make changes in your overall wellbeing in the workplace and life!
• 40 exhibitors from the mental health, fitness, spiritual, occupational, and financial wellbeing arena
• Discuss how to strategise your E.S.G policies with those in the know
• Learn with industry-leading experts who will show you how to implement tools and strategies to improve workplace wellbeing
• Experience workshops like a creative painting for mindfulness, gong bath, meditation, and much more
• Connect with businesses and practitioners to discover new trends and proven techniques
• Network with an array of qualified industry peers
• Tune into the lunchtime panel Q&A session to help you implement new ideas of how small daily steps lead to big progress in your wellness
Founder of Wellness in the City Liverpool believes 2025 will be the ‘year of community’
Wellbeing advocate, Clare Ellis , who launched the annual Wellness in the City showcase in January 2023, has recently revealed details of the highly anticipated third expo
The event, sponsored by Privilege HR, will take place at INNSIDE by Meliá LIverpool in June. This year’s theme, Community, highlights that true wellness isn’t just about individual habits but also the people we surround ourselves with. The 2025 expo focuses on not just personal wellbeing but collective wellbeing.
Clare believes that thriving communities create thriving individuals. “We’re seeing a shift – people want more than just self-improvement; they want to connect, support, and grow together,” she says. “A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about what you eat or how you exercise; it’s about the people you surround yourself with. We want to create a space where individuals feel empowered and supported. From joining run clubs to uplifting each other in fitness groups and wellness circles, communitydriven wellness is on the rise.”
Wellness events like this also provide a significant boost to businesses. Companies that prioritise employee wellbeing experience increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved morale. At Wellness in the City Expo 2025, business leaders can gain valuable insights into fostering healthier workplaces, explore the latest corporate wellness trends, and connect with experts to integrate wellbeing into their company culture.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, manager, or team member, prioritising health in the workplace leads to stronger, more engaged teams. Attendees will experience an inspiring lineup of speakers, hands-on wellness activities, and expert-led masterclasses covering everything from nutrition and biohacking to mental resilience and fitness trends. With metabolism, hydration, and foundational health among the hottest wellness topics of 2025, this expo is a must-attend for anyone serious about upgrading their wellbeing.
Foundational health will take centre stage this year, with a focus on personalised nutrition, quality sleep, and essential supplements to enhance brain function and longevity. Hydration remains a top priority – not just through water intake but also with vital minerals and electrolytes that regulate body temperature, boost energy, and improve muscle performance. Expect a surge in electrolyte-infused drinks as people seek smarter, more effective ways to support their health.
“More people are embracing new wellness tools to maximise their health, using science and personal experimentation to refine their routines and enhance both physical and mental performance,” adds Clare.
“Optimising health through nutrition, health tech, and personalised habits is a forward-thinking approach. And it’s more than just a trend – it’s a movement toward proactive self-care. That’s been the essence of Wellness in the City Liverpool since day one.”
Peter Waller Flynn, CEO of Privilege HR, says: “At Privilege HR, we believe that wellness is not just a perk – it’s a fundamental pillar of a thriving workplace. When employees feel valued, supported, and healthy, they bring their best selves to work, driving innovation, resilience, and long-term success.
“Investing in wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do for businesses that want to grow and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
“A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about what you eat or how you exercise; it’s about the people you surround yourself with.”
Leading lights from the Liverpool City Region’s property and business sectors will gather at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Thursday 27 November 2025 to reflect on another 12 months of achievements For details about tables and sponsorship opportunities, call 0151 316 0210 or email awards@ymliverpool.com
Cheat’s pistachio & salted caramel millionaire’s shortbread
Wonderfully simple to make, these keep brilliantly well in the freezer and only take a couple of hours to defrost
PREP 30 mins | COOK 25 mins | MAKES 16
INGREDIENTS
• 135g unsalted butter, cubed and chilled, plus extra for greasing
• 80g pistachio kernels
• 60g golden caster sugar
• ¼ tsp fine salt
• 200g plain flour
• 250g jar No.1 Salted Caramel Sauce
• 150g dark chocolate, roughly chopped
• 50g milk chocolate, roughly chopped
• ¼ tsp sea salt flakes
METHOD
1 Preheat the oven to 180ºC, gas mark 4. Grease and line a 20cm square cake tin with baking parchment. Put 40g pistachios in a food processor and whizz to a crumb. Add the sugar, salt and flour; pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and pulse to a breadcrumb-like consistency. Tip onto a work surface, bring the mixture together into a dough, then press into the lined tin in an even layer. Prick the surface of the dough all over with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes until pale golden. Set aside to cool in the tin.
2 Once cooled, dollop the caramel sauce on top of the shortbread, then spread
COOK’S TIP
Simple swap –almonds or pecans are a delicious alternative to the pistachios.
flat with a palette knife; chill for about 30 minutes to firm up. When the caramel is firm, melt both chocolates in a bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water (don’t let the water touch the base of the bowl).
3 Meanwhile, roughly chop the remaining 40g pistachios. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel, then sprinkle over the roughly chopped pistachios and sea salt. Chill for one hour, then cut into 16 squares. These will keep covered in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to two months (wrap in baking parchment and store in a freezer bag).
DaDaFest International 40 launches with powerful waterfront projection
City-wide festival celebrating 40th anniversary of awardwinning disability and deafled arts organisation
THE 2025 DADAFEST INTERNATIONAL opened on International Women’s Day with a launch party and spectacular artwork projected onto Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront.
Artists and creatives from across the UK attended the event at the Open Eye Gallery on Mann Island, shining a light on the work of disabled women artists and activists and marking the start of the 2025 festival and the opening of a new photography exhibition –‘Rage, Riot and Revolution’ – which features artist Jan Williams’ portraits of disabled women.
Guests were invited to move out to the Pier Head where they were mesmerised by ‘Hand Ships Sail’, a ‘poetic conversation’ in BSL from deaf artist Cathy Mager which was projected onto the façade of the Cunard Building.
DaDaFest International 40 (DDFI40) runs until 31 March at locations across
Liverpool city centre and beyond. The festival has the theme ‘Rage: A Quiet Riot!’ and the programme includes film, largescale projection, performances, visual arts, workshops and talks.
DaDa’s chief executive Zoe Partington says: “The launch of DaDaFest International 40 in Liverpool was nothing short of spectacular with disabled artists taking centre stage, driving innovation representation and reshaping the narrative of artistic expression.
“This landmark event showcased the talent and highlighted the importance of disabled artists being trailblazers in the creative landscape, offering a fresh, unapologetic vision of the world.
“Liverpool was truly alive with energy and innovation, transformation, and celebration of diversity across our region and beyond – an unforgettable stage for our continuing festival during March.”
For full details visit www.dadafest.co.uk
Here comes the sun...
Heather Marsh welcomes spring and draws our attention to the shrubs that bring us that sunny feeling
WITH ANOTHER LATE EASTER this year, I can totally relate to George Harrison when, back in 1969, he said he ‘felt that winter had been going on forever’. The arrival of spring is always a relief, eagerly awaited by us all, year after year. It’s no wonder, then, that Harrison was inspired one beautiful spring morning while strolling through the garden of his friend Eric Clapton, to write the perfect spring anthem, ‘Here Comes the Sun’ – an ode to the rebirth of nature and the joys of spring. March often brings a very mixed bag of weather. Nonetheless, the evenings are beginning to lengthen, the spring equinox is on the horizon, and on those rare days when we can bask in a bit of warm sunshine, our spirits lift, and it does us all the power of good.
Yellow is such a cheery, hopeful colour, as the emerging hosts of golden daffodils remind us, delivering an instant boost of positivity wherever they bloom.
Out in the garden, though, it’s not just the flowering bulbs that play a part in spring’s warm-up act. For me, it’s the cold-season bloomers – the shrubs in any sunny shade –that really earn their keep right now. I grow all of these sunny delights and can’t recommend them enough. See what you think!
Forsythia
Well recognised as one of the most popular spring shrubs, forsythia’s golden flowers are a welcome sight in any garden at this time of year. A deciduous shrub, it remains bare throughout winter, with flowers appearing on its branches before the leaves.
Hardy and very easy to grow, mature forsythia plants can reach up to three metres in height and spread. Once established, they grow quickly, and annual pruning – only after flowering – will likely be necessary to maintain size. Reasonably tolerant of most soils, simply plant in a well-drained,
moderately sunny spot and forget about it… until, that is, you are delighted by its profuse springtime display of golden-yellow flowers
There are plenty of varieties to choose from, but unfortunately, none that I would recommend for pots or containers. However, using cut forsythia stems in flower arrangements is a wonderful way to bring the beauty of spring indoors.
Forsythia ‘Northern Sun’ is a large, robust variety with bright yellow blooms, especially well-suited for northern climates. Meanwhile, Forsythia ‘Arnold Gold’ is more compact, making it ideal for smaller gardens.
Forsythia
Winter flowering jasmine
A reliable, dainty shrub valued for its cheerful little flowers that brighten up the depths of winter. Like summer jasmine, I grow this as a climber, supporting it with a trellis and wires, as it lacks the tendrils that summer varieties use to cling and climb.
That said, once established, this is a relatively maintenance-free shrub that thrives in any well-drained, sunny, or partially shaded spot. The most popular variety, Jasminum nudiflorum, is evergreen and can be grown as a hedge or trained over a low wall. One of the earliest flowering shrubs, it often blooms as early as January, with tiny, starry, butteryyellow flowers that are sure to lift the spirits – whatever the weather.
Warminster broom
Broom is a deciduous flowering shrub and ranks among my absolute favourites. When in bloom, it is simply stunning. I grow the free-flowering variety ‘All Gold’ whose arching branches are smothered this month in masses of bright yellow flowers with a heady fragrance that I find truly intoxicating.
In fact, when it’s in bloom, I often find myself standing in its midst with my eyes closed, breathing in its heavenly perfume. Broom is, once again, an incredibly easy spring plant to grow, requiring little to no maintenance. Ideal for planting in poor soil, these shrubs can also thrive happily in pots and containers.
Kerria japonica ‘pleniflora’
This old favourite of mine was also dearly loved by my mother; she had a particular fondness for plants with a sunny disposition, especially at this time of year. ‘Bachelor’s Buttons’, as we always called it, is a troublefree, vigorous grower.
A deciduous flowering shrub, it grows almost anywhere, establishing itself by developing into a thicket of tall stems with suckers emerging from the base. The real show comes when double yellow flowers burst from these stems in mid to late spring, with leaves soon following. This humble shrub thrives happily in both sun and partial shade.
Mahonia
This evergreen shrub is an architectural delight, with bright yellow flowers and berries that attract both birds and bees. A hardy, virtually maintenance-free plant, it can be planted anywhere with well-drained soil. I grow the aptly named ‘Winter Sun’, and mine thrives in a rather shady spot, still producing masses of yellow flowers surrounded by leathery, holly-like leaves.
The most commonly grown mahonias are upright and can reach up to four metres in height, so mature plants may become leggy if neglected. However, this is easily remedied, as mahonia responds well to hard pruning (after flowering) and is often the better for it, producing plenty of new growth.
Acacia dealbata ‘mimosa’
Rather tropical-looking when in full bloom (from January to March), its tiny frothy flowers remind me of sherbet lemon pips –sweets I used to enjoy as a child. The blossoms are heavenly scented, too. This evergreen shrub, with fern-like leaves, can be grown as a small tree. Though it’s a fast grower, if pruned annually after flowering, it can easily be kept to a manageable size. Mimosa prefers a sunny, sheltered spot and grows happily in a pot or container, making it an ideal plant for a conservatory or sunny porch. Though delicate-looking, mimosa is a hardy plant, and even when severe frosts kill off early blooms, it usually manages to bounce back.
International Women’s Day
Mimosa is the floral symbol for International Women’s Day. Celebrated throughout the world each March, it recognises the social and political struggles for gender equality that women everywhere have faced for centuries. The day initially traces its beginnings back to the strike of women garment workers in New York City on 8 March 1857, resulting in the first women’s union being formed and then to commemorate the 129 women who died in a factory fire in Chicago in 1908.
The custom of giving mimosa flowers however began in Italy, when two women activists who were campaigning for women’s rights gave each other branches of mimosa as a sign of respect, support and solidarity. Nowadays, this tradition rivals our Mother’s Day with Italian women young and old alike still celebrating this day with fathers, husbands, boyfriends and brothers gifting women these beautiful blooms. In fact, there isn’t a street corner in the whole of Italy that doesn’t sell mimosa on this very special day. Like this delicate sweetsmelling flower, often flourishing amidst adverse weather, mimosa is seen as the perfect symbol of feminist strength and unity.
Mahonia
Kerria japonica ‘pleniflora’
Acacia dealbata ‘mimosa’
Winter flowering jasmine
Warminster broom
Jarron secures planning approval for £120m Metalworks scheme
The Build to Rent development will feature 396 luxury apartments, along with five townhouses inspired by New York City’s iconic architecture
Jarron Developments has been granted planning permission by Liverpool City Council for its £120 million Metalworks development, a major residential project set to deliver 401 luxury apartments and townhouses on Leeds Street.
The approval marks a significant milestone for the developer, which acquired the site in September 2023. The Build to Rent (BTR) scheme will feature a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, along with five high-end townhouses inspired by New York City’s iconic architecture, spread across two interconnected 16-storey blocks.
Residents will benefit from a range of amenities, including a residents’ lounge, co-working space, cinema room, gym, and Liverpool’s first rooftop running track. Sustainability is a key focus, with green roofs and public realm improvements enhancing the environment and accessibility.
With several projects underway across Liverpool, Newcastle, and Sheffield, Jarron says Metalworks exemplifies its
“commitment to delivering large-scale, transformative projects” in major urban areas.
Will Clarke, development director at Jarron, adds: “We are delighted to have won backing to deliver such an iconic scheme in Liverpool City Centre. This location is the perfect setting for the Metalworks development, which will be a landmark project for the city.
“It will offer exceptional living standards, with unparalleled access to work, leisure, and transport options. A special thanks to the officers at Liverpool City Council for their hard work throughout the
application process.
“We’re excited to see the scheme progress and contribute to the continued success and growth of Liverpool.”
Martin Haymes, associate director at Falconer Chester Hall, which designed the scheme, adds: “We are delighted that Metalworks has received planning permission.
“This development will be central to the transformation of Pumpfields, providing much-needed homes and high-quality public spaces, all while respecting the area’s industrial legacy. We look forward to bringing this exciting project to life, enhancing the community and contributing to the broader regeneration of Liverpool.”
Metalworks is set to create more than 380 jobs during its construction and operational phases.
The project is a significant part of a wider vision to create a thriving new neighbourhood in Liverpool, contributing to the city’s ongoing growth and transformation.
Beyond Van Gogh returns and Beyond Monet makes its city debut
Multimedia experience breathes new life into the works of great masters, offering a fresh perspective on their artistry
BEYOND VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE is set to return to Liverpool this summer after attracting 60,000 visitors during its UK premiere in the city in 2024.
The multimedia experience will be at Exhibition Centre Liverpool from Tuesday 15 July to Sunday 3 August.
And city art lovers will also become the first to enjoy a new immersive show, Beyond Monet, receiving its UK premiere in Liverpool and which brings the works of the ‘Father of Impressionism’ to life in mesmerising fashion.
Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet will be staged on different days throughout the three-week run at the waterfront venue.
Produced by Annerin Productions and Paquin Entertainment Group, Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience brings together more than 300 of the postImpressionist icon’s paintings blended with cutting-edge technology and a specially curated musical soundtrack to tell the story of one of history’s most influential artists.
Meanwhile Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience has been seen by thousands of people at venues across North America, and now it is coming to Liverpool.
In the impressionist extravaganza, state-of-the-art tech breathes new life into more than 400 of the legendary French painter’s artworks – including Poppies, Impression: Sunrise and his Water Lilies series – taking visitors on an audio-visual journey through his captivating and colourful world.
Ma Pub Group acquires Newington Temple
New owners plan to make pub ‘perfect accompaniment’ to Bold Street offering
LIVERPOOL HOSPITALITY FIRM Ma Pub Group has acquired the Newington Temple and will invest £150,000 to restore the centuries-old inn as a “traditional wet-led classic pub’. Newington Temple joins Nova Scotia, Tempest on Tithebarn, and Ma Boyle’s Alehouse & Eatery as part of the Ma Pub Group estate across the city.
Situated just off Bold Street, the site of Newington Temple has housed a pub for almost 200 years, with recent decades seeing various iterations, including Old Rope Walks and Bier.
Following a three-week refurbishment, Ma Pub Group will reopen the venue with a focus on draught and cask ales.
Iain Hoskins, director of Ma Pub Group, says: “I’m thrilled to have a site in my favourite street in the world and what we offer with Newington will be the perfect accompaniment to the incredible restaurants that make Bold Street one of the most unique streets in Britain.”
What’s on...
Events not to be missed over the next four weeks
Boys From the Blackstuff, Liverpool Empire 25-29 March
James Graham’s powerful new adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s BAFTA award-winning TV series comes to Liverpool direct from the National Theatre and the West End.
14 Mar The Darkness, Mountford Hall
21 Mar Kim Wilde, Philharmonic Hall
27 Mar Northern Music Awards, Liverpool Olympia
1-5 Apr Animal Farm, Liverpool Playhouse
3-5 Apr The Randox Grand National Festival, Aintree Racecourse
4 Apr André Rieu, M&S Bank Arena
8 Apr Primal Scream, Mountford Hall
Helios, Liverpool Cathedral From 4 April
Get ready to bask in the brilliance of Helios as the UK’s largest cathedral hosts Luke Jerram’s awe-inspiring illuminated sculpture of the Sun for the first time ever.
