INSIDE
Bold Street’s Coco Brazil
Christmas table decorations
New homes in Thornton & Maghull
Jane Clare on wine
McQueen Lauren
Liverpool’s rising star on bringing Maid Marian to life in MGM+’s Robin Hood
November
Hello and welcome to November’s YM Liverpool!
First up, I’m thrilled to share my chat with the wonderful Lauren McQueen, who steps into the spotlight as Maid Marian in MGM+’s bold new adaptation of Robin Hood.
The Liverpool-born actress opens up about bringing the iconic character to life, delving into her growth and romance with the legendary outlaw, and celebrating the empowering female cast behind this modern retelling of an English legend.
On the property front, we feature a beautifully crafted collection of three and four-bedroom homes from David Wilson Homes in the charming village of Thornton, and take a look inside a spacious fourbedroom property in Maghull that perfectly balances modern living with family practicality.
Elsewhere, Annie S shares her festive fashion favourites ahead of the Christmas party season, the John Lewis team reveals effortless ways to dress the table and turn up the seasonal magic, and Heather Marsh explores the mysterious and fascinating world of fungi.
Plus, Will Carr heads to Bold Street to try out the new rodizio, Coco Brazil, while Jane Clare uncorks the flavours, stories and spirit of Rioja – Spain’s most fascinating and diverse wine region.
Until next time!
LAWRENCE SAUNDERS Editor
Editor Lawrence Saunders editor@ymliverpool.com
Design Marten Sealby
ADVERTISING Sales 0151 316 0210 sales@ymliverpool.com
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Taking
Liverpool’s Lauren McQueen steps into the spotlight as Maid Marian in MGM+’s bold new adaptation of Robin Hood. With the 10-part series now streaming, she talks about bringing the iconic character to life, exploring her growth and romance with the legendary outlaw, and celebrating the empowering female cast behind this modern retelling of an English legend
words lawrence saunders
The story of Robin Hood has been told countless times on both film and television. What fresh perspective does this new adaptation offer?
It’s the origin story of Robin Hood, with a modern energy. In our series, we meet the characters as children and we see how they grow up to become the iconic figures we know and love. It’s a story about the fight for justice and freedom and family. It heightens the relationship between Rob and Marian and their love story. I love that all the characters have their own defined journeys, especially Marian, and we get to learn more about her. I loved the role because we get to explore more of her personal life.
I hadn’t watched any of the previous adaptations, but of course I knew of Robin Hood and what the story was about. I was so excited when I read the pilot for this new take.
John [Glenn] and Jonathan [English] have done an incredible job of writing such a moving storyline – it has so much heart and grit.
I was thrilled that Marion was going to have her own journey. I’d always known her just as Robin’s love interest, so the fact that she has her own arc, and that we see her personal struggles, really drew me in. She’s had a very sheltered and abusive childhood, and it was refreshing to see a woman written with such inner strength.
is very much a 2025 woman, and Marion learns a lot from her about being more outspoken and standing up for herself. It’s really inspiring to see how the portrayal of women is changing on TV – they’re coming across as more powerful and independent. Queen Eleanor, in particular, is amazing to watch in this story. She’s technically imprisoned in England at the time, but that doesn’t stop her from ruling, making decisions and getting what she wants. Marion really admires that about the Queen, and thinks to herself, ‘I can be like this too’. She’s not going to let her abusive father stop her from becoming the woman she wants to be.
I was so excited when I read the pilot for this new take. I was thrilled that Marion was going to have her own journey.
In previous period dramas, I’ve played characters who are vulnerable and often portrayed as victims, but Marion has this real resilience about her. It was inspiring to read something like that – especially written by two men – where all the female characters in the show have this power and independence that grows throughout the series.
How does this version make the characters, particularly the women, feel relatable and modern to today’s audience?
Even though the story has been told for hundreds of years, this adaptation has such a modern energy and makes the characters feel very real. I think audiences are going to be able to relate to the themes and to the characters themselves. Priscilla of Nottingham, for example,
How would you describe your character Marian? How do you see her?
We meet Marian as a young child, which is really interesting because we haven’t seen these characters as young kids in any of the other adaptations of the Robin Hood story. In our story, she is an inexperienced, innocent girl who grows into a woman of confidence, who finds her own voice and power and finally chooses things on her own terms. That character arc and journey was so exciting to step into and explore throughout the series. It felt huge! Playing that as an actor was so fun and interesting. I wanted to show her fire and inner strength and make her a Marian we have never seen before.
This is the biggest and most high-profile role of your career so far – did you do anything special to prepare for it?
Definitely. I’ve done period dramas in the past, but I’d never had the chance to ride a horse – and for me, that was a big goal. I spent a year taking lessons in Liverpool just because I wanted to learn and hopefully use that skill on set one day. So when the script for Marian came through and I saw that she was going to be on a horse, I felt like I’d manifested the role! I couldn’t wait to get to Serbia and do even more lessons. We had weekly lessons with an amazing teacher. Obviously, we were just in our own clothes for those, but once you put the dress on, it’s a whole different thing – with the corsets and
Marian is influenced by the quickwitted Priscilla of Nottingham, played by Lydia Peckham
the heavy fabric. It makes you sit differently, and even getting on and off the horse is a challenge in itself.
And then, of course, you’ve got to try to look graceful and as if you’ve been riding for years, all while having a conversation with your scene partner and making sure you don’t fall off the horse at the same time!
I’ve been wanting to play a leading role in a drama for so long, and all my past jobs have felt like the perfect stepping stones and preparation for this, really. I felt fully ready to take it on. I’d visualised playing a role like this and being part of a series on this scale – it was just a matter of time, I think, and of really sticking to it and not giving up.
Tell us more about the costumes. Did you have a favourite? They are amazing. This is the first character I’ve played where her costumes really reflect her journey. The costume designer was amazing. She showed us all of her sketches and they were incredible. When she is living in the forest, Marian’s costumes are this light blue color, sort of like country bumpkin. But when she finds more confidence and she is serving the Queen, the colour changes to a darker blue. It shows maturity and growth. We shot out of sequence, the costumes were so helpful to the place where she was on her journey. I loved every dress, especially the ones she wears while waiting for Eleanor – they’re just unbelievable.
What was it like working with big-name actors like Connie Nielsen and Sean Bean?
It was amazing. When I heard Sean was playing the sheriff, I was so excited to meet him and work with him. I’ve always admired his performances – he’d just finished This City Is Ours in Liverpool, but I was really moved by his work in Time. It was lovely to connect over Liverpool, and he said how much he loved working there. He can’t get away from scousers, no matter where he goes! [laughs]. He’s so down-to-earth and funny. I really admire him as a person and the way he approaches his work. Watching him on screen is like a masterclass – doesn’t have to do much, yet you can’t take your eyes off him. He was incredible to learn from. Connie brought so much knowledge and background to Eleanor of Aquitaine; it was really inspiring to me. She was so on it and so collaborative. It’s inspiring to watch how she works and how she holds herself on set. I hope I can work with more actors
like her in my career, because I love to watch people’s process in how they work and learn as much as I can.
Marian’s relationship with Rob is central to the whole show. Given that you don’t spend much time together on screen in each episode, how did you and Jack (Patten) build and maintain the chemistry needed to make the relationship feel believable?
We first met at the chemistry read in London. Jack had flown in from Australia, and I’d come from Liverpool. He was already cast as Rob, but they were still auditioning a few Marians. Before I went in, Jack was taking a break outside, sitting by himself. I worked up the courage to go say hello – I figured, we have to act like we’re in love in the next five minutes, so breaking the ice beforehand seemed like a good idea. From the moment we met, we just clicked, and I was so relieved he was such a nice guy.
When we worked on the scenes together, I could feel that he was genuinely rooting for me, which gave me a lot of confidence. John and Jonathan gave us the freedom to play around with the scenes, and we were completely aligned on everything – our characters, what to bring to each scene. We were learning from each other, too, which was lovely, especially as both of us were stepping into our first leading roles on a TV show. That energy really made it work.
Because of scheduling, we didn’t actually work together on set for the first two months of filming. I was a bit nervous about whether we’d lose that chemistry, but we kept in touch – grabbing coffee, chatting through scenes, even playing padel together in Serbia. By the time we met on set again, it was as if no time had passed. It felt completely natural.
What do you hope audiences take away from the series?
I hope they are really moved and are amazed by the love, the action, the romance. I hope they feel like they can relate to the characters and their stories can resonate with them. The female characters are inspiring and empowering, and I hope that’s what stays with them after watching.
Robin Hood is available to watch on MGM+ via Prime Video Channels
Lauren puts her riding lessons into practice alongside Steven Waddington as Marian’s father, the Earl of Huntingdon
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Coco Brazil
By Will Carr | Rodizio | ££
Despite only recently opening, Coco Brazil is already taking Bold Street by storm, flipping two meaty middle fingers at the wellestablished Fogo Brazil just across the cobbles, as if the pair were locked in a restaurantthemed sitcom.
The décor is wonderfully idiosyncratic, an interesting medley of chic eatery and steakhouse complete with a double-headed cow in the chandelier and a gigantic stone face on the wall.
We were sat by the window and were told to help ourselves to the buffet-style arrangement in the corner. To the uninitiated like myself, a buffet in a fashionable restaurant seems very out-of-place but we certainly weren’t complaining.
A red and green wooden block was placed on the table. We did not yet know the significance of the red and green block. ‘Turn it to green when you want serving’, the charming manager explained. ‘The chef will come over and serve meat to the table’. I needed this explained twice by two different people.
If you’ve never been to a rodizio before, the experience will seem quite alien. If
| 73 Bold Street, L1 4EZ
you’re anything like me, the first thing you’ll experience is confusion, followed by a lingering anxiety. I had no idea what was about to happen. There was a menu of various meats. Did we need to ask which one we wanted? What if the chef came over with something we didn’t fancy? Do we send the man dejectedly back to his kitchen?
Luckily the buffet took my mind off this as my partner and I heaped on piles of food from the various steaming containers. The standout dish was the Beef Stew, a mixture of delicious vegetables sitting in a flavourful tomato sauce. The noodles were fantastic and the potatoes, drowning in a creamy chive sauce were my partner’s favourite. After finishing our buffet starters and, with an underlying sense of dread, it was time to flip the block to green. When you have a man running at you across a restaurant with a sword covered in meat you know something’s about to happen.
skewer onto the table. Oh dear me, butterfingers!
There’s no way to do justice to all the dishes but the Linguica, a delicious, smoky sausage was the perfect introduction. The Picanha, was a close second with a rich, buttery taste that melts in the mouth. The File Mignon com Parmesão, however, is their crowning glory – tender slices of pork coated in a golden layer of Parmesan. The flavours blended perfectly and were so exquisite that, when helping to remove my layers of sliced meat, I ‘accidentally’ knocked all the meat from the
Coco is not without its downsides, although I suppose it’s a limitation of the dining style rather than the restaurant itself. I gazed longingly at the menu, perusing the Costela de Boi beef ribs and dreaming about the Cordeiro lamb chops but sadly had the chance to experience neither. Once the green block is up then you get meat thrown your way. Not in the mood for the Coracao de Frango chicken hearts? Too bad, you got ‘em. I suppose I could have asked but being far too reserved and after watching the poor chef sprint up and down carrying skewers, there’s no way I could have looked him in the eye and said no to his offering.
In summary, it’s well worth a visit for both the quality of the food and the novelty of the experience. At £30 for the all-you-caneat dinner, it’s great value – just don’t expect precision ordering. If your idea of a good time involves a sword piled high with mystery meat, though, you’re in luck.
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One foot in THE GRAPES
From bold reds to lively rosados, Jane Clare uncorks the flavours, stories and character of Rioja – Spain’s most fascinating and diverse wine region
Aglass of red Rioja is a terrific choice as we hunker down in the darker nights with a growing chill in the air, as it’s often full of warm spice and fruity complexity – and from a wine region more interesting than you may give it credit for.
Let’s start with the basics: Rioja is the oldest legally recognised wine region in Spain and one of only two to have earned the country’s highest quality designation, Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) – the other being Priorat. Quality control here is second to none; at every level, wines are rigorously assessed, meaning that every bottle reaching us carries the stamp of approval from the region’s regulators.
Rioja – around 60 miles south of Bilbao and 240 miles north of Madrid – is stunningly framed by mountains to the north and south. The River Ebro winds through the landscape, carving valleys with diverse climates and soils. Stretching roughly 100 kilometres from west to east, the region is divided into three subzones: in the east lies the warmest, Rioja Oriental; to its west, Rioja Alta sits around Logroño in the heart of the region; and to the north-west, the coolest area, Rioja Alavesa, close to the Basque Country, where vineyards climb to higher altitudes. Grapes in the warmer Oriental are often harvested around a month before those in the cooler Alavesa. This diversity, and winemaking techniques, means that we shouldn’t have a one-size fits all attitude to Rioja. I spoke to Rodolfo Bastida, wine director at Ramón Bilbao, just a couple of weeks ago during his visit to the UK. Last year marked Ramón Bilbao’s centenary in Rioja – and Rodolfo’s 25th anniversary at the winemaking helm. The producer continues to lead the way in exploring the many opportunities that this remarkable region
offers. Rodolfo is clear about the vision: “We want to make better wines, with more character – wines that truly represent the places and grape varieties they come from”. As he told me, climate, winemaking, and grape selection all make a difference. And those grapes – well, they’re something else.
Versatile Tempranillo leads the pack for Rioja’s reds, with the gorgeous, red-fruited Garnacha coming second – though it accounts for only around 7.5% of plantings. Among the whites, Viura holds the top spot. The region is increasingly focusing on white wines (and as drinkers, we’re certainly keen for more), with Tempranillo Blanco helping to drive that vision. Discovered in a Rioja vineyard in the 1980s, this unique grape is found nowhere else.
How can you recognise a style that might be ‘your thing’? Here’s a quick guide to the colour-coded labels of Rioja:
Green: Joven/Genérico – these are young wines with no oak ageing, offering a fresh, fruity expression of the grape.
Red: Crianza – aged for at least one year in barrels. If you enjoy a balance of bright fruit with notes of vanilla, coconut and spice, this is your style.
Purple: Reserva – these wines spend time ageing both in oak and in bottle. Expect layers of fruit alongside vanilla, spice and hints of dried fruit, balsamic, or leather.
Blue: Gran Reserva – aged for a minimum of 60 months before release. Only the finest grapes with real ageing potential are used. You’ll find complex flavours of tobacco, coffee, leather, raisins, figs, vanilla, cloves and spice, often with just a trace of fresh fruit.
Find out more about Rioja at riojawine.com or on Instagram @riojawine. For more information on Ramón Bilbao, visit bodegasramonbilbao.com.
A Rioja pink is for all seasons
You’d be hard-pressed to find an independent wine shop or supermarket in Liverpool that doesn’t stock Rioja. At this time of year, the warm-fruited, oaky styles are perfect with Sunday roasts or Wednesday-night cottage pies.
But don’t write off a rosado – they’re not just for summer. I sipped the Ramón Bilbao Rosado 2024 on the day I met Rodolfo. A cool October breeze swept across our pre-lunch patio, highlighting the wine’s delicate red fruit flavours and vibrant acidity, teasing the tastebuds for the meal ahead. You can find this wine at the Co-op for £8.95.
The Cantabrian Mountains are a beautiful backdrop to autumnal vineyards in Rioja Alavesa; (right) Jane with winemaker Rodolfo Bastida
DEVELOPMENT
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With Liverpool city centre under eight miles away and the coast, countryside and highly rated local schools all close by, it’s an ideal spot to put down roots.
Life at Sundial Place is all about balance. The development sits within easy reach of Crosby Beach and the area’s scenic walking routes, while Blundellsands and Crosby train station is a short drive away, providing connections to Liverpool and further afield. Thornton itself offers a friendly village atmosphere with local shops, cafés and green spaces all on the doorstep.
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Christmas table
Effortless ways to dress the table and seriously turn up the festive magic
IF THERE’S ONE TIME IN THE YEAR when you can really go to town with tablescaping, Christmas is it. Whether you’re going to be hosting a big group or arranging a more intimate feast, there are easy ways to curate your very own festive wonderland and wow your guests.
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Christmas light trail brings Wonderland to Bents Garden & Home
Guests can follow Alice’s path through theatrical sets and sparkling seasonal displays at the popular Warrington attraction
BENTS GARDEN & HOME is introducing a new Christmas light trail inspired by Alice in Wonderland. The installation takes visitors on a journey through the magical story, following Alice and the curious characters she encounters along the way.
The trail, set within Bents’ Hidden Gardens, features a series of theatrical sets, light projections and soundscapes that bring Alice in Wonderland to life. Visitors are welcomed by the White Rabbit before following a path that explores the story’s twists, turns and curious encounters.
Along the route, visitors will encounter well-known characters from the classic tale, including the Caterpillar perched on his toadstool, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, the Queen of Hearts, and the Mad Hatter’s tea party.
The Hidden Gardens at Bents, located behind the centre’s outdoor plant area, have been developed over the past 12 years into a carefully maintained green space. The area is now open for visitors to explore, beginning with Alice’s Winter Light Adventure.
The trail features a series of light installations along with refreshment stops serving hot and cold drinks and festive treats. Visitors will join the experience in timed sessions to ensure a comfortable flow throughout the evening.
Entry to the light trail is through the main centre, beginning around the lake before continuing into the Hidden Gardens, where the experience concludes. The route ends at a dedicated photo point before leading back into Bents’ Winter Food Market.
Tickets are available to book online at bents.co.uk
PC&Co hosts pumpkin painting event at L6 Community Centre
Children and families took part in a seasonal celebration of creativity sponsored by the local law firm
PAUL CROWLEY & CO SOLICITORS
supported the local community in Anfield by teaming up with L6 Community Centre for a pumpkin painting competition. The event celebrated creativity and provided an opportunity for children to get into the Halloween spirit.
Representatives from the law firm, Alison Priestley and competition judge Jamie Swain, were welcomed by L6 Centre manager Shirley and staff members Steph and Jenny. Together, they judged each pumpkin on creativity, originality and craftsmanship. Children took part dressed in a range of costumes, from skeletons and witches to dinosaurs and cheerleaders.
Alison and Jamie were pictured with the children and L6 staff, capturing the energy and sense of community that define the centre’s work. The event also coincided with the launch of PC & Co’s seasonal fundraising efforts to support local families in need.
The initiative is part of the firm’s ongoing involvement with the L6 Community Centre, including the L6 Food Bank, which provides essential food and household items to individuals and families across Merseyside facing hardship.
Alison says: “It was a pleasure to support a
local organisation doing such important work.
“The team at L6 Centre makes a real difference in the community, and the children’s creativity brought the day to life.”
Jamie adds: “The standard of the pumpkin painting was so high that it was agreed every child would receive a prize.”
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Inside, the layout has been carefully planned to suit the rhythm of everyday life. The living room sits at the front of the home and features double doors leading through to an open-plan kitchen and dining area – a layout that creates an easy flow between spaces. There’s also a separate utility room, a downstairs WC and three useful storage cupboards, making the home as practical as it is welcoming.
Upstairs, the main bedroom comes with its own en suite, while three further bedrooms and a family bathroom complete the first floor. The property also includes an integral garage for added convenience.
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Maghull train station is less than a mile away, providing direct services to Liverpool city centre in around 25 minutes. A range of local amenities are close by too, along with wellregarded schools including Summerhill Primary and Deyes High School.
With its thoughtful design, great location and quality finish, The Roseberry offers a well-balanced lifestyle in one of Liverpool’s most well-connected suburbs.
Visit ovh.org.uk/developments/summerhill-park to register your interest in one of the available Roseberry plots
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Bellway given go-ahead for £65 million development in Mossley Hill
Located at the intersection of Elmswood Road, North Mossley Hill Road, and Rose Lane, the scheme will be known as Carnatic Park
BELLWAY HAS RECEIVED planning consent for a new £65 million residential development on the University of Liverpool’s derelict Carnatic Halls site in Mossley Hill.
With plans to transform the site approved by Liverpool City Council, the housebuilder can now bring forward its vision for a scheme comprising 65 one and two-bedroom apartments, set over five three and four storey blocks, as well as 78 three, four and five-bedroom homes.
Within the 22.23 acre site, a total of 9.15 acres will be developed and 12.36 dedicated to public open space with a large emphasis on new green areas and the retention of the existing features including the sandstone and brick walls and mature trees.
In addition, the site will be opened up to the general public and made accessible with new pedestrian walking and cycle routes through the development.
David Williams, managing director at Bellway North West, says: “We are incredibly
excited about Carnatic Park and are delighted to now own the site and have planning permission to develop it.
“A hugely prestigious scheme, this is a flagship development in one of the most desirable areas of Liverpool and we have thought long and hard about every element from the landscaping and public open space plan to the elevational treatments of the different house types and the materials used in both the external and internal specification.
“Landscaping has been a key consideration and forms a large part of the plans. We are delighted to be opening up the site and introducing new public walkways and areas of public open green space that were not
previously accessible.
“We will also retain the existing sandstone walls and all of the mature trees which will give a beautifully well established feel to the new development and ensure it blends perfectly in the conservation area.”
In addition to opening up the site and providing access to green space that was not previously available, Bellway has made a series of Section 106 contributions within the planning application including £39,971 to recreational pressure and £212,000 for off site street trees. Additionally, eight of the one-bed apartments will be sold at 80% discounted market value.
Work will start on site imminently with a sales presence from late summer 2026, first occupations in spring 2027 and completion forecast towards the end of 2028.
Mistoria Group to sponsor YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards category
North West-based property investment and management company has pledged its support for November’s event
THE MISTORIA GROUP has been confirmed as the sponsor of the ‘Property Management Company of the Year’ category at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2025.
Founded in 2009, The Mistoria Group is a North West-based property investment and management company headquartered in Salford. The group specialises in high-yield residential property, including student accommodation, HMOs, and buy-to-let developments across Greater Manchester, Liverpool and Bolton. Mistoria offers a fully integrated service for investors, encompassing property sourcing, refurbishment, lettings, and ongoing management. Its divisions include Mistoria Estate Agents, Mistoria Renovations & Maintenance, Mistoria International and Student Haus.
Over the past decade, the company has grown its portfolio to encompass hundreds of properties and thousands of tenants, establishing itself as one of the region’s leading providers of investment and rental housing. Its Liverpool estate agency is located in the heart of the city centre on Pall Mall.
Mish Liyanage, CEO/MD of The Mistoria Group, says: “The Mistoria Group is pleased to sponsor the ‘Property Management
Company of the Year’ category at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2025.
“Excellence in property management underpins the long-term success of our industry, and we’re proud to recognise and support those setting the highest standards.”
The prestigious YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2025 will be held on 27 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – hosted by Liverpool-born star of stage and screen Claire Sweeney.
Accolades will be handed out across a diverse range of categories including ‘Property Developer of the Year’, ‘Best Affordable Housing Scheme’, ‘Build to Rent (BTR) Development of the Year’, ‘Business Leader of the Year’ and ‘LCR Business of the Year’.
Once complete, Heaps Mill will be among Liverpool’s most transformative regeneration projects
Q&A: John Morley
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
of Legacie
Born from a commitment to Liverpool’s growth, Legacie has played a significant role in the city’s regeneration – developing new homes, supporting local communities, and contributing to lasting change. Founder John Morley reflects on the company’s early days, its community focus and its growing presence across the North and beyond
Legacie has played a significant role in reshaping parts of Liverpool’s skyline. What inspired you to start the company, and how has your vision evolved over the years?
Liverpool is a world-renowned city with a strong history and a unique culture. But I felt that it was lacking the amount of investment and quality of stock of nearby Manchester. I am from the city so it was important to me that Liverpool didn’t fall behind other northern cities that were rapidly transforming into super cities around us.
Since then, we’ve delivered over £500m worth of projects and 3,000 homes across 20 buildings with even more projects on the horizon. As we enter the next phase of our growth, we’re showing no signs of slowing down with priorities for developments in Manchester, Luton and other major UK cities.
You’ve delivered some landmark projects in Liverpool. What do you see as Legacie’s most impactful contribution to the city so far?
Legacie’s contribution to the regeneration of the Baltic Triangle is one of my proudest
achievements so far. We’ve helped to create a place in what was once a forgotten part of Liverpool, and turned it into an exciting destination. Working alongside the existing community, we listened to them to make sure they still felt at home in the area. The Baltic Triangle is now home to some of the city’s top bars, restaurants and brands. It is through the delivery of schemes such as Parliament Square – that focus purely on creating a place and a community – that demonstrates our commitment to shaping the future of Liverpool, going beyond delivering more than a block of flats.
However, looking beyond landmark projects in the city, we launched our Second Chance programme in 2015 and have gone on to support more than 50 ex-offenders. We have worked with the probation service and HMP Thorn Cross to develop a scheme that provides training and career opportunities for people with a criminal record, ultimately offering them a second chance to gain valuable skills and help them reintegrate into society. We also employ around 150 people
with the majority of the team being local. This is the type of impactful contribution that means more.
The property landscape is always shifting. How is Legacie responding to changes in the market, and what trends are you seeing in Liverpool’s residential and commercial sectors?
We’ve recognised the demand in Liverpool for high-quality, affordable homes that are managed as well as they are designed. We have become synonymous with the Build-toRent market here, but what sets us apart from other developers is the fact we take control of each stage of the process. This includes from acquisition and design to construction, leasing, property management and ongoing asset care. This model comes back to our long-term vision for Liverpool. We want to ensure that we continue to care for the places we’ve created as they will continue to impact the city’s skyline and economy.
In terms of the wider sector, we’ve seen a shift in demand for luxury, student housing. The increasing number of international students, especially from the Middle East and Asia, has been a driving force behind this trend, with many seeking a standard of living that goes well beyond the traditional student model.
Regeneration is a hot topic in urban development. What’s your philosophy on creating spaces that not only look good but genuinely benefit the communities around them?
At Legacie, regeneration isn’t just about transforming a site – it is about creating and shaping places that people want to live, work and spend time in. Our philosophy is rooted in the idea that developments should deliver more than just impressive architecture and facilities – they need to bring long-term benefits to the communities they’re part of. For example, in our upcoming Heaps Mill development, we’ve included a newly created public walkway that links the city centre directly to Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, enhancing connectivity and public access.
As a business, we employ around 150 people – the majority of whom are born and live locally. I think that is important in the sense that we have a team who are passionate about creating the best spaces that benefit those around them, as they too will be likely to reap the rewards.
Up at Parliament Square, not only have we transformed a once-abandoned area into a vibrant destination that exemplifies true
We’ve recognised the demand in Liverpool for high-quality, affordable homes that are managed as well as they are designed.
Legacie’s £100m flagship Parliament Square project features over 500 apartments and a range of amenities
If you look at the cranes across the city centre at the moment – the majority of them will be delivering a Legacie scheme.
placemaking. We’ve added new amenities –including the only supermarket in that part of town, as well as a cinema and Pilates studio Our approach is to assess what is already in an area and what do the people that live there need instead.
Legacie has attracted attention not just locally but on a global scale. What do you think sets your developments apart in such a competitive market – and why do investors continue to back your vision? What sets Legacie apart is the standard we deliver. Our developments go far beyond the traditional Build-to-Rent model by offering facilities and services that ultimately create luxury residential living. We’re not just providing apartments, we’re creating lifestyleled spaces, with amenities such as state-of-theart gyms, resident lounges, co-working areas, landscaped terraces and wellness spas that elevate the entire living experience.
This level of quality and attention to detail has given our schemes an international appeal. Investors recognise that what we’re building isn’t simply accommodation, but aspirational places to live. Developments that command strong demand attract a diverse tenant base and stand out in a crowded market. Our commitment to design excellence, combined with long-term asset management, ensures that we’re delivering sustainable value both
for residents and for those who back our vision. I also think the scale of our operations makes it impossible not to notice us. If you look at the cranes across Liverpool city centre at the moment – the majority of them will be delivering a Legacie scheme.
Looking ahead, what are your ambitions for Legacie in Liverpool and beyond – and what can we expect next from the team?
As we move into our next phase, Legacie shows no sign of slowing down. We have exciting projects already in the pipeline, not just here in Liverpool but also in other key growth locations such as Manchester.
Liverpool will always be at the heart of our story. We became the city’s most prominent developer during a particularly challenging time for its built environment sector, and that experience has shaped where we are today But now is the right time to build on our existing platform and expand into new locations.
Over the coming years, our ambition is to take the Legacie model to cities across the North and beyond – with Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield amongst some of our target locations. We’re confident that by combining our proven track record and strong design and service skills, we will replicate our success and continue to grow as major force in UK development.
Heather Marsh investigates the mysterious and fascinating world of fungi
magic of The mushrooms
THIS YEAR’S WARM SPRING, followed by a hot summer and the current spell of autumnal wet weather, have collectively provided perfect conditions for fungi to pop up just about everywhere. I’ve never known a year like it, and with all kinds of mushrooms cropping up en masse, it’s no surprise that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has declared a ‘Mushroom Bonanza’.
There really is something quite magical about finding mushrooms growing wild –especially if it’s in your own garden. Over 15,000 species of fungi are found growing wild in the UK alone. The British Mycological Society has named and recorded those found here, with around 100 varieties of mushrooms being edible and non-poisonous. With so many types to discover, we often forget about the most basic fungi we encounter every day – and without them, our planet probably couldn’t exist.
For instance, we often take for granted the fungi used to make bread, alcohol, and life-saving medicines – not to mention the complex species that can break down toxic chemical waste and even some plastics. It’s no surprise, then, that fungi have been prized and valued for thousands of years.
Magical yet mistrusted, mushrooms have long been linked to ancient taboos. To the Egyptians, they represented immortality and were considered fit only for the plates of pharaohs – though perhaps those were the species with hallucinogenic properties!
At one time, fungi were considered a sign
that something was wrong in the garden – waterlogging, poor drainage or even the dreaded honey fungus disease. However, the RHS’ new perspective recognises that fungi can actually indicate a healthy ecosystem. They perform crucial and beneficial functions, such as decomposing dead material, nourishing plants and wildlife, and improving soil structure. As a result, gardeners are now being encouraged to appreciate and understand fungi rather than fear them.
The bad guys… Honey fungus
However, not all fungi are good. Honey fungus (Armillaria mellea) is known as the biggest killer of trees and shrubs in the UK – which I, sadly, can vouch for. In fact, that’s how my initial interest and research into fungi began back in 2020.
I had noticed that our lovely old Bramley apple tree was looking a little tired, although it still managed to produce a good crop of apples. This, however, turned out to be the tree’s ‘swan song’ – a bumper harvest being a classic symptom, as I later learned, of the deadly honey fungus disease. The appearance of honey-coloured mushrooms around the base of the tree, typically seen in late autumn, was the tell-tale sign – and a devastating confirmation of my diagnosis.
As this parasitic disease is known to be the most destructive fungus in UK gardens – and with no known cure – it truly proves to be every gardener’s worst nightmare. I remember reading somewhere at the time
that, if you’re unfortunate enough to discover this deadly fungus in your garden, the advice was brutally simple: Don’t tell anyone – just sell up and move!
Honey fungus spreads underground by means of rhizomorphs – or ‘bootlaces’, as they’re often called – which attack and kill the roots. With few, if any, preventative measures available, controlling the disease is almost impossible, as it knows no boundaries. Excavating and destroying all infected roots and stumps, then burning or ‘tanking’ the area and replacing it with clean soil, can work, but only in smaller gardens – and even then, it’s a gamble.
For me, it’s become a case of firefighting: trying to grow trees and shrubs that are more resistant. The RHS provides a list of such plants, but protecting existing mature trees and shrubs is almost impossible. Nearly eight years on, I can’t say it gets any easier watching my beautiful garden succumb to this ‘cancer’ that continues to spread. It has already killed several metres of privet hedge, mature conifers, and – most heartbreakingly – our fruit trees. Losing the damson, cherry plum, and pear has been devastating.
Yet, on a positive note, our resilient old Bramley apple still hangs on. Despite most of its roots being rotted away, and it having blown over twice in the past year, it’s been winched and propped up – and somehow, it continues to soldier on, producing an impressive harvest. It’s as if it’s telling us, quite defiantly, that it’s not done yet.
Into the wild...
Moving on to the many wild and wonderful mushrooms growing in abundance – perhaps tempting you to try a little foraging. Before you head out, I must stress in the strongest possible terms: never pick or eat anything you’re not absolutely certain about. Mushroom identification isn’t easy, even for experts, so if in doubt, leave it alone.
When foraging, stick to common, wellknown varieties that are not easily confused with poisonous ones. Every year there are numerous incidents of mushroom poisoning – some of them fatal -0 so it simply isn’t worth the risk. For me, just looking and trying to identify fungi growing in the wild is fascinating enough.
Remember, fungi are a vital part of our ecosystem, so always follow sustainable foraging guidelines and take only what you need. Here are some common examples:
The giant puffball This huge edible species can be seen growing all over the UK and is one of the easiest mushrooms to identify – especially when mature – as it reaches such impressive proportions, often the size of a small football.
Fungi reproduce by releasing microscopic spores into the air, and a single puffball like this can contain up to a trillion spores! Puffballs must be pure white inside to be safe to eat. Mild in flavour, they can be sliced or diced and fried in butter – just season well and enjoy.
The shaggy ink cap This wild mushroom is a scruffy-looking species, rather toadstool-like in appearance. Edible, even if it doesn’t look particularly appetising, I recently found it growing in my garden. With tall white caps and black gills, it is best eaten when young.
You won’t find these in restaurants or shops, as they need to be cooked immediately after picking. As the mushroom matures, its black gills begin to release a dark, inky liquid – a process called deliquescence, meaning the mushroom gradually disintegrates and melts down. Interestingly, this ink is perfectly safe to use for writing or drawing.
A word of caution: some references suggest that consuming this mushroom with alcohol can produce mild toxicity, so it’s best to avoid combining the two.
Oyster mushrooms As the name suggests, these mushrooms are oysterlike in appearance. They are commonly found growing wild throughout the UK in tiered clusters, often
resembling a bunch of oysters. These mushrooms grow on almost any kind of dead or rotting wood, making them a familiar sight in gardens and woodland alike. There are many varieties of oyster mushrooms, and growing kits are widely available – a fun and educational activity for children, with adult supervision, of course.
Fly agaric Found in woodlands, this fungus looks like the classic toadstool from fairytale books. Its distinctive red cap is covered with white, wart-like spots. Beware! This mushroom is very poisonous.
Interestingly, it was once used as a traditional insecticide – broken up and sprinkled into milk, it would attract and kill flies.
If all this has left you a little confused but you’re still tempted to try mushroom picking, why not start with a mushroom kit? Quick and easy to use, these kits are safe, fun, and well worth a go. Huyton-based urban farm, Greenleaf Product, has a variety of different grow kits available from just £16 (greenleafproduct.co.uk).
If grow kits and foraging feel a bit too adventurous, don’t worry – supermarket mushrooms are a safe and delicious alternative. I’ve long been a fan of the simple button mushroom, even though there are now so many more varieties to tempt our palates. Portobello, shiitake, oyster, and porcini, to name just a few, are among the most popular. They are all low in calories, high in protein, and a great source of fibre.
Most varieties available in supermarkets are versatile and delicious – try them grilled, stuffed, battered, or simply sautéed in butter. The health benefits are numerous too. Mushrooms are fast becoming a ‘superfood’, providing nutrients like selenium and potassium, and the much-needed vitamin D, especially during the dark winter months. Studies have shown that to boost their vitamin D content, all you need to do is leave them outside in direct sunlight for about 30 minutes before cooking. Like our skin, mushrooms transform ultraviolet light from the sun into vitamin D – a simple trick that can provide as much of this essential nutrient as a daily supplement.
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
Africa Oyé to return as ticketed event after 30+years as free festival
Organisers say they are committed to making the Sefton Park celebration ‘as affordable as possible’
AFRICA OYÉ HAS ANNOUNCED BIG CHANGES for its 2026 festival as organisers prepare for a new era for the Sefton Park event.
The UK’s biggest celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture will return next summer, following a fallow year in 2025 due to rising infrastructure costs, changing legislation, and the increasingly difficult challenge of keeping the event free.
The festival will return as a ticketed event in 2026, with organisers committed to making it as affordable as possible for its audience.
The festival began in 1992 as a series of gigs in Liverpool city centre organised by Africa Oyé’s founder, Kenny Murray. Over the past 33 years, it has grown to take place in multiple venues, including Birkenhead Park, Princes Park, and Concert Square, before settling in Sefton Park in 2002.
Next year’s celebration – taking place on 20 and 21 June 2026 – will be the first ticketed Oyé in Sefton Park in the festival’s history. The event will feature a diverse programme of international live acts, emerging artists, community performances, workshops, DJs, food, and arts and crafts.
Baccino sisters bring Pasta Cosa to Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
Siblings serving up fresh pasta paired with a range of authentic sauces from their newest restaurant
INDEPENDENT PASTA RESTAURANT Pasta Cosa has opened at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool – the second site for sisters and cofounders Kayleigh and Talia Baccino after the success of their original Castle Street venue.
Located on the inner quay, just a few doors down from the siblings’ café, Francie’s Focaccia and Coffee, the restaurant is a relaxed and welcoming space where friends and families can enjoy freshly made pasta against the stunning waterfront backdrop.
Pasta Cosa dockside is larger than its Castle Street counterpart, seating around 24 guests inside with space for a further 16 on The Colonnades.
At the heart of the new eatery is an open kitchen, where fresh pasta is made daily, from classic Tagliatelle to Fusillone, ready to be paired with a range of authentic sauces, including rich Bolognese or a creamy portobello mushroom and spinach.
Kayleigh says: “The opportunity to open our second Pasta Cosa site in such a vibrant and historic location was a dream come true.
“Our goal is simple, to share our love of fresh, authentic Italian pasta in a place where everyone feels at home.”
Pasta Cosa is open for both lunch and dinner, serving until 9:30pm.
What’s on...
Events not to be missed over the next four weeks
Comic Con Liverpool, ACC Liverpool 15-16 November
One of Europe’s biggest pop-culture conventions returns with star guests including Christopher Lloyd, John Cena, Emilia Clarke and Brie Larson. Expect photo-ops, autograph sessions, cosplay stages, retro and modern gaming zones, and hundreds of traders and artists.
13 Nov Luvcat, O2 Academy
14-16 Nov Winter Market, Sefton Park Palm House
15 Nov Wet Leg, Mountford Hall
15 Nov The Boomtown Rats, Olympia
16 Nov Adam Ant, Philharmonic Hall
21-22 Nov Peter Kay, M&S Bank Arena
6 Dec Ian Prowse, 02 Academy
Until 25 Dec Liverpool Christmas Market, St. George’s Plateau
Matilda The Musical, Empire 2 December–4 January
Roald Dahl’s classic comes to life on stage with unforgettable songs, dazzling choreography and a young girl’s extraordinary imagination. A magical theatre experience for families and fans of all ages.
MANUEL HARLAN AND ELLIE KURTTZ; PETE CARR
ELLIOT T KINGSLEY
TIA L A RSEN
THOM A S COTRAN
EMMA B I SPHAM
CHARLIE M AE MCKEVITT
