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John Cooper Clarke Autumn home makeover The Mary Wallopers Ivy Brasserie review
Hannah Onslow Diana takes control as the ‘Scouse Sopranos’ returns
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October
ISSUE #554
For this month’s cover interview, I caught up with This City Is Ours’ Hannah Onslow ahead of the return of the hugely popular BBC crime drama. Hannah reflects on the extraordinary reaction to the first series, stepping back into the role of Diana and working alongside on-screen partner James NelsonJoyce and series two newcomer Money Heist star Álvaro Morte. Elsewhere, John Cooper Clarke talks northern humour, his affection for Liverpool’s creative scene and new anthology Have It, while The Mary Wallopers’ Charles Hendy shares the story behind the band’s trip across the Irish Sea to record their new album with The Coral’s James Skelly. On the property front, St Helens’ Nicholson Point takes centre stage in Development in Focus and we reveal emerging plans to regenerate the historic Welsh Church in Toxteth. Plus, Annie S picks out the season’s standout highstreet looks, from faux fur and statement knits to relaxed tailoring, our friends at IKEA share ideas for an autumn home makeover, and Heather Marsh looks at the trees bringing beautiful colour to our gardens while providing vital food and shelter for wildlife. Finally, Jane Clare celebrates Georgian Wine Month, delving into the country’s 8,000-year winemaking history and distinctive traditions and, of course, recommends a few bottles to try. Enjoy!
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This city is
HERS
Ahead of the return of acclaimed Liverpool-set crime drama This City Is Ours for its much-anticipated second series, Hannah Onslow discusses stepping back into the role of Diana, the extraordinary reaction to the show, filming on Merseyside, working with James Nelson-Joyce and Money Heist star Álvaro Morte, and what lies ahead for her character as the stakes rise once again words lawrence saunders
was so young and it was in the papers and all of that. So it was about finding her accent within someone who had lived in Liverpool but had maybe gone away. It was also a really clever way of keeping her alienated from the group and keeping her separate. It’s a subtle thing. But it was absolutely a responsibility and you don’t want people to feel misrepresented in any way. Everyone in it who isn’t Scouse loves Liverpool, loves the accent and connects with their character. So it’s definitely a responsibility and, of course, it’s a worry. All you can do is your best. The way people have responded in Liverpool has been so wonderful. After the first series, we were like, ‘Oh, okay, they’re fine with It was the most us now!’
Before we get into series two, what have you been up to since filming wrapped? I’m in rehearsals at the minute for a play at the National Theatre in London called Some Woman. We’re about five weeks in now, so yeah, it’s going, it’s going [laughs]. We finished filming This City Is Ours in, I think, May. We started rehearsals for the play in August, so I had time to have a holiday and relax. I think we ended up filming for seven months, and the show is never just two people having a coffee and chatting rubbish. It’s always life or death. It’s intense!
Going back to the first series, did you have any sense while you were filming it of how audiences might respond? important thing that We had a great time shooting it, so you’re hopeful Was winning over people in Liverpool that it’s received well, but you just never know. especially important to you all? people in Liverpool It had the recipe for success in a lot of ways. Oh my God, yeah. It was kind of the most loved it, and I feel The scripts were great, the cast was great, the important thing that people in Liverpool loved story was great, it had great producers and the it, and I feel like they’ve really taken the show like they’ve really whole crew were brilliant, so it had everything. into their hearts. But you just don’t know if it’s going to connect When we were shooting the second season, taken the show into with people. it was a very different experience because their hearts. It feels like there was a lot of word of mouth as obviously people had seen the show. But it’s well. When I hear people talking about it, it’s like always so nice when people come up and talk they’d heard someone from work speaking about it and that’s what about it and they just love it. Also, Scousers are the friendliest people got them onto it. It really feels like the people who watched it loved it in the world, so it was just nice to chat! and binged it, which is great. Had you realised before coming back just how big the reaction With the show being so rooted in Liverpool, did you feel an had been in Liverpool? extra sense of responsibility taking on such a big role when When the show first came out, some of the other cast members who you’re not from the city yourself? live in Liverpool were like, ‘They have gone mad for it up here’. But Whenever you’re doing a job where you’re, quote-unquote, representing I hadn’t been back to Liverpool until we started filming again, so I a place or doing an accent – whatever place that is – there is a responsibility. didn’t quite realise. It’s tricky for Diana because she was born in Liverpool, but had to Then when we came back for series two, I was just so happy that move when everything happened with her mum and dad because she Scousers loved it because if they didn’t, they’d bloody tell you!
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INTERVIEW
Absolutely, we would! I know you learnt some of your lines on Crosby Beach during the first series. Did you make it back there this time? Well, this time we filmed from October through to May, so it was a bit colder and the weather wasn’t great. I definitely wasn’t going to Crosby Beach as much! Being recognised more did make things a little trickier, though, because I didn’t want to sit in a coffee shop with the scripts in case someone sneaked over and had a look! But I feel like people don’t want to spoil it anyway, because that’s the whole thing with the show. The suspense is the best bit – you never quite know what’s going to happen. Even when we’re shooting, we’ll say to the writer, ‘Oh, I think this is going to happen’, and he always surprises us, so we never really know where it’s going. Being recognised did make it a little bit more difficult to go out and about this time, but not too much. We’re not the bloody Beatles! At the end of the first series, Diana and Michael seem to be heading off to start a new life together, but having seen the first two episodes of series two, it’s clear things don’t stay that simple for long. Without giving too much away, one thing that struck me is how Diana starts to take more control of what’s happening around her. Was that an interesting shift for you to explore? Oh yeah, I think so. The people who had the control in the first series definitely have that challenged in the second. As certain things happen, especially for Michael, he realises that he can’t control everything and he’s not able to stick a lid on things. Diana feels like she has to take matters into her own hands, which any woman would. It was great to see that side of her as well, and I think there’s a lot more of that to come in the series for all the women in it. The first series was such a whirlwind [for the characters]. I think the whole thing took place over less than three weeks or something like that, so it’s a really quick succession of things. This obviously kicks off six days later and I think everyone has matured slightly – or not, in some cases! But Diana has definitely learnt some things and there’s definitely a shift in her. Over the course of the series, an even bigger shift emerges, and that for me was really exciting and also felt truthful. Towards the end of the first series, Diana reveals what happened with her mother and father. Does the guilt she carries from that, and the sacrifice her mother made for her, continue to shape her in series two? Oh, I think so. That never leaves a person. In the first series, no one else knew what had happened to her. It was only her and her mum who knew, and now Michael knows. They’re bonded even more because they’re the only two people who can really understand what that feels like, as kind of f ****d up as that is. I think it definitely lingers and it makes her who she is. She’s someone who has had to sit on a lot in her life and has also been controlled by men her whole life. So it didn’t surprise me that she would fall in love with someone like Michael, who is seemingly so protective and would die for her, because I don’t think she had that protection growing up. But I think, as it goes on, we see her find that inner lioness in herself. Her past with her mum definitely comes into season two. She can never really run away from it. I think in some ways she has tried to run away from it, but you just can’t. It’s too big. Michael is obviously a huge part of Diana’s story. Having now worked with James [Nelson-Joyce] across two series, how has your relationship as actors developed? It’s so funny because when James and I had our chemistry read for the first series, that was the first time we’d met each other. It was kind YM Liverpool 5
INTERVIEW
Hannah as Diana Williams alongside James Nelson-Joyce as Michael Kavanagh in series two of This City Is Ours
That’s kind of what separates Diana from everyone else in the show. She’s honest and she can’t help it. That’s probably why she wouldn’t work in that world, but it’s also another reason why Michael loves her. There is something about Felipe where he can see underneath it. She can’t lie to him. There is no way she can lie to him because he will see it, and I think that made for a very interesting dynamic. Also, the stakes are so high. Felipe’s not uber-violent. He doesn’t throw his weight around. It’s a very quiet, compelling, kind of chilling performance [from Álvaro], and that’s definitely how it felt on set. He’s nothing like his character in real life, thank God! He’s the nicest guy in the world. We would go out for dinner in Liverpool and he loved the city. He’d never been before, and when he was leaving, I him for oysters at NORD, which was lovely. It was a real career took He also had his birthday while we were there and we went to Buyers Club. It was the only highlight for me place we could get a massive table. He loved working with [Álvaro Liverpool. He had a great time.
There are some new characters joining the show for series two. Shaun Evans plays Ozzie Thompson, an old-school gangster from Ronnie’s era, while Money Heist star Álvaro Morte joins as Felipe Guzman, Ricardo’s younger brother. You share some pretty Morte]. He’s absolutely It sounds like you all got on really well off intense scenes with Álvaro early on – what was he like to work with? set. What’s the whole cast like together? extraordinary. I think He was amazing to work with. I knew he was We’re mega close. A lot of us are away from famous, but when we were in Spain, I remember he elevated the whole home. When we were shooting season one – it going into a corner shop and there were was 2024, which is so weird to think about now thing, to be honest. bobbleheads of him for sale. He’s mega famous! – we all started filming in Spain. It was a real career highlight for me working All we really had was each other to hang with him. He’s absolutely extraordinary. I think he elevated the out with, and we properly connected. I feel like we’re a nice mixture whole thing, to be honest. He brought something so different and of people. interesting and nuanced. Julie Harkin and Nathan Toth, who are the casting directors, don’t He had so many ideas and he was so supportive of me as an really hire any d**kheads! Everyone was really lovely and we’re quite a actress. We really wanted to explore their dynamic. These two people sweet group, I think. understand each other on a weird level, even though they’ve got It’s also weird because we are a bit of a firm. We’re a big group and nothing in common. There’s this weird connection between them. we’re really proud of the show. Everyone loves the show. Everyone bit their hand off when they asked us to come back. That really comes across. There are moments where Felipe and Diana almost seem to understand each other without speaking. This City Is Ours returns to BBC iPlayer and BBC One on What do you think creates that connection between them? Sunday 25 October
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JAMES STACK
of instant in a way, even though obviously we didn’t know each other. Now he’s a good friend, and I think that naturally brings us closer. We love Michael and Diana and we love their relationship. It’s such an integral part of the show that if people didn’t buy it, it all kind of falls apart. Their relationship is very deep. She sees something tender and gentle in him, which completely contradicts so much of what you see from him. He’s more than his job. She actually sees someone very beautiful, and I don’t think he even sees himself as that in a way. For me and James personally, we’ve just wanted to keep it as honest as we can. We love each other off set and we’ve become really close friends. I love acting with him. He’s amazing and I always look forward to having a scene with him. We’ve really got each other. We look after each other.
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A guide to wills and probate – Consult the legal experts
Matt Campbell
The process of grieving a loved one is always difficult, this can be made even Private Client, Paul Crowley & Co worse by uncertainty if the deceased person has failed to make a will and the consequences of what can happen to their estate if they pass without one. Paul Crowley & Co’s expert Wills and Probate team are here to guide you through the legal process of making a will When do you need a will?
A will is a legal document which lets you direct how your belongings will be distributed after your death. If you pass away without a will, your belongings will be distributed according to ‘intestacy law’, which could mean that your property does not pass to the people you would want to inherit it. Most people would benefit from having a will, as no matter how small your estate, a will makes it so that you can appoint an ‘executor’ to manage your assets and distribute your property according to your wishes.
How are wills executed?
The law sets out formalities for making a valid will, which must be: • In writing • Signed by the ‘testator’ (the person making a will), and • Signed by and in the presence of at least two witnesses The witnesses who sign your will must not be ‘beneficiaries’, or the spouse or civil partner of a beneficiary.
Can I write my own will?
There are potential risks associated with writing your own will, the consequences of which can be long-reaching, disruptive, costly and distressing. If your will becomes a source of conflict in your family or there are issues with its validity, it can end up being time consuming and cost you far more than if you had taken advice from Paul Crowley & Co to draft your will.
What is a trust?
When making a will, you may wish to put some of your property into a ‘trust’. Trusts are a way of managing wealth including
money, investments, land or property. When you put assets into a trust, they are under the control of an appointed person or persons called ‘trustees’, who manage the trust according to your instructions after your death. Trusts are often a good way of leaving property to your children, as the trustees will manage their inheritance until they are old enough to receive it.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal right to deal with a deceased person’s estate. If a person dies with a will, the executor needs to apply for a ‘Grant of Probate’, as proof of their right to manage the deceased person’s estate. If a person dies without a will, their estate will be dealt with by an ‘administrator’, who will need to apply for a ‘Grant of Letters of Administration’. Who can apply for this is determined by rules of ‘intestacy’, under which the responsibility will fall in the following order of priority: • Spouse or civil partner • Children • Grandchildren • Parents • Siblings • Grandparents • Aunts and Uncles
death certificate. Then, you can apply for a Grant of Probate. This usually takes around 16 weeks, but can take longer if additional information is required.
When is probate required?
The beneficiaries of the deceased person are not allowed to sell the property or access any of the deceased persons bank accounts until probate has been granted. Generally, banks and building societies will ask to see proof of probate before allowing you deal with property belonging to someone who has passed away. Probate will be required in most cases, but it may not be needed if: • The estate is small (usually below £5,000) and banks or building societies have confirmed they will release funds without sight of a Grant of Probate. • All property was held jointly with someone who is still living, who will automatically inherit through survivorship. If you would like to make a will or apply for probate, our friendly team of Wills and Probate solicitors at Paul Crowley & Co are here to help.
If you need to apply for probate, Paul Crowley & Co’s dedicated team of legal experts will guide you through the process of dealing with your loved one’s estate.
How long does probate take?
The entire process usually takes at least six months, but can take longer depending on the complexity. The first step is to register the person’s death within five days in order to receive a
For a free, no obligation chat with one of our experienced Wills and Probate Solicitors, call us on 0151 264 7363. www.paulcrowley.co.uk
FOOD
Restaurant review
The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie By Robin Brown |
£ (Cool Britannia menu) |
Brand extension is an unlovely phrase, really. Car manufacturers do it (hello, Range Rover Sport). Richard Branson made a career out of it. And the Hilton, once a byword for upmarket hotels, is now plastered on £50-a-night efforts near airports. I’m sceptical. This brings me to The Ivy Liverpool Brasserie on Castle Street, an upmarket restaurant from the people behind, well, The Ivy (now owned by Abu Dhabi-based luxury hospitality investor Diafa, amid much talk of IP and ‘hospitality umbrellas’). It’s in the old Bank of England building, derelict for decades, now spectacularly reborn. Walking there now, particularly at night, is a useful reminder not only of how far that area – and the city – have come in many respects, but also how many bistro-brasserie options there are around here (alas, my old NatWest Bank is a trendy wine bar now). Step inside the new Ivy and you can’t deny the turnaround from the drab, rather austere interior left behind when TSB exited the building over 25 years ago. Instead is what I can only refer to as Greco-Roman bling – a sort of maximalist Homeric epic in which the gods have discovered interior design, complete with three thrusting fake trees and plenty of genuine foliage. The gold-and-
31 Castle St, L2 4TA
green look of the original Ivy is present and correct, along with the Harlequin stained glass, stunning typography and tailored staff uniforms. There’s real wow factor, though your mileage may vary. Service? Exquisite. It’s another area where British hospitality has improved exponentially. Eat here and you’ll be treated like royalty, albeit in a Baz Luhrmann film. Sadly I’m here to review a new offering, essentially an early bird menu called Cool Britannia, available most days until 6.30pm. It’s inspired by ‘the culture and creativity of the nineties’ and features dishes such as steak and chips, and onion soup. What this has to do with Britpop and its attendant frivolities I’m not sure (disappointingly we didn’t get a ‘Roll With It’ option on the menu, though there was some very pleasant sourdough). Price for two courses? £19.96 – because that era was the apex of Cool Britannia, presumably. If you want a dessert that’s an extra £8.95 – perhaps to commemorate 895, when King Alfred the Great foiled a Viking invasion by blockading the River Lea (look, I checked, and this really did happen). Themed menus rarely work and the more elaborate the concept, the less likely they are to make sense. It’s why the Great British
The highlight was an oh-so-sticky toffee pudding, drowned in a disgraceful caramel sauce and served with a scoop of cool clotted cream.
Menu and Bake Off – with their ‘how does this Eton Mess / cheese scone represent the Peasants’ Revolt / disappearance of Lord Lucan?’ shtick – have long since disappeared up their own soggy bottoms. What’s more, the food is… OK? Compared to the modern European stylings of the à la carte it feels like a poor relation. You can’t really dress up a chicken supreme or sweet potato curry any other way, though two courses for £20 is admittedly eye-catching. The highlight was an oh-so-sticky toffee pudding, drowned in a disgraceful caramel sauce and served with a scoop of cool clotted cream, all delivered under a cloche to preserve the scent. We also went off-menu to choose a chocolate bombe, which had drama to match the decor. I’m pretty nonplussed by restrictive menus that are cheaper, but sadder: the ‘affordablehousing back entrance in a posh building’ of the restaurant world. You buy access to the lovely places but are compelled to eat the downscaled food. If you’re going, skip the nostalgia act and plump for the main event; one great meal out is always better value than two mediocre scoffs. I get the appeal of dining out on the cheap but, even in these straitened financial times, better to see Oasis once than Ocean Colour Scene twice.
VIEW FOOD PHOTOS @YM_LIVERPOOL
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Crinkle faux fur gilet Tesco £45
H&M £19.99
Cape-detail lace blouse H&M £54.99
Softly
does it
Annie S selects her standout seasonal styles, from faux fur and cosy knits to statement jackets Faux fur coat River Island £110
Funnel neck top
The Couture Club £85
Barrel leg trousers
The Couture Club £75
Borg mule loafers Primark £10
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Knitted turtleneck cape
FA S H I O N
Faux fur trim flight bomber jacket M&S £70
Floral print cardigan Zara £35.99
Elasticated waist barrel leg trousers M&S £36
Faux fur scarf
Drummer jacket
M&S £40
Printed ribbed knit jumper
Zara £45.99
River Island £69
Statement button crossover cardigan Primark £16
YM Liverpool 11
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WINE
One foot in
THE GRAPES
Georgia may not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of wine, but as Jane Clare discovers, its ancient winemaking traditions and hundreds of native grape varieties make it well worth a closer look
O
ctober is Georgian Wine Month, so what better time to raise a glass to a country which lays claim to being the birthplace of wine. I was lucky enough to visit Georgia in 2022, and it was one of those trips that makes you look at wine slightly differently afterwards. During the Soviet era, Georgian wine production was geared towards quantity rather than quality, with traditional winemaking methods discouraged in favour of high-volume wines. But since 1991 – and Georgia’s independence – winemakers are now reclaiming their cultural heritage; and the results are increasingly finding their way into shops, restaurants and wine bars (including here in Liverpool). Wine has been made in Georgia for around 8,000 years, with Jane stands next to a researchers heralding the country traditional clay qvevri as the cradle of wine civilisation. Pottery found in the South Caucasus region of Georgia has been dated to the early Neolithic period. For centuries, traditional Georgian winemaking involved huge clay vessels called qvevri. Nowadays, modern methods are more widely used, but the traditional qvevri method – recognised by UNESCO – remains an important part of the process. They are buried underground, with only the round rims visible, while the grapes ferment and mature below ground. It was only when I stood next to a qvevri that I realised just how huge some of them are – and understood the amount of magical wine they can hold, hidden underground. The wines made this way can be quite distinctive. White grapes fermented with their skins can produce what we now commonly call orange wine, with deeper colour and flavours ranging from apricot and mango to dried fruit and flowers. Orange wines are not made from oranges, despite what some people think! In fact, every year 6 October is International Orange Wine Day – so Georgian Wine Month has landed at exactly the right time. And that is probably the plan: to link and showcase the strong connection between this ancient way of winemaking, the country at the heart of it, and the increasing public interest in orange wine. Georgia’s grape varieties are another reason to take notice of the country’s wines this month. The country has more than 500 native grapes – one sixth of the world’s varieties, according to Wines of Georgia. Saperavi is one of the stars – a black grape producing
richly coloured reds with plum and berry flavours. It is one of only a handful of grapes in the world with deep pink flesh as well as black skins, which is why it brings so much depth of colour to the wine in your glass. Then there’s Rkatsiteli, one of Georgia’s best-known white grapes, which can produce wines with citrus, apple and quince flavours. Georgian grapes and wines may sound unfamiliar, but they are becoming easier to find in the UK. For a country with such an ancient wine history, Georgia is becoming a surprisingly modern wine discovery. And with Georgian Wine Month putting the spotlight on the country, it seems a good excuse to discover the stories and skills that have been developed over thousands of years. Discover more about Georgian wines at winesgeorgia.uk. The white grape produces Follow @georgianwineuk on social the distinctive orange wine media for updates.
How can you try wines from Georgia? If you head to Bunch, the natural wine bar on Berry Street, you may find something to please. They tell me they often have Georgian wines available. At the time of writing, they have an orange wine, Zvari John Okro, made from Rkatsiteli; there’s also a fresh, pale red which the Bunch team says is one of their “favourite wines of the year so far”. At Waitrose, there’s a £1.50 discount on Gorgeous Georgia Red until 27 October. Made from Saperavi, the wine is normally £10. Morrisons also has a Saperavi – Morrisons The Best Block Series 008 Georgian Saperavi (£12) – while at Ocado you can find the white Teliani Mtavruli Kisi (£14).
JANE CLARE DIPWSET IS ON INSTAGRAM AS @ONEFOOTINTHEGRAPES. GET IN TOUCH IF YOU FANCY YOUR OWN WINE EVENT, OR YOU WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STUDYING WITH JANE FOR WINE & SPIRIT EDUCATION TRUST WINE QUALIFICATIONS. EMAIL JANE@ONEFOOTINTHEGRAPES.CO.UK OR GO TO WWW.ONEFOOTINTHEGRAPES.CO.UK
YM Liverpool 13
PROPERTY
DEVELOPMENT Institutionalgrade residential operator brings Nicholson Point to St Helens From
£799 pcm
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NICHOLSON GROUP HAS COMPLETED the internal restoration and conversion of the Radiant House building on Cotham Street, St Helens, unveiling 14 new apartments under the name ‘Nicholson Point’. The project marks the latest milestone in the developer’s ongoing work in the town centre, breathing new life into one of St Helens’ most recognisable Art Deco landmarks. Officially opened in January 1939, the building originally served as the municipal gas showrooms for the Borough of St Helens Gas and Lighting Committee. It occupies a prominent position on the corner of Cotham Street and Ormskirk Street. Nicholson Group acquired the property in 2024 and, following the granting of planning permission by St Helens Council, work began to convert the building into modern, affordable apartments. Nicholson Point follows a series of regeneration projects completed by Nicholson Group across St Helens, including the restoration of the former Tyrers and Beecham buildings, the redevelopment of the former Bridge Street Post Office and schemes on Barrow Street and Claughton Street. Paul Nicholson, CEO of Nicholson Group, says: “The interior restoration and conversion of Radiant House into Nicholson Point follows Nicholson Group’s earlier restorations of the former Tyrers and Beecham buildings in St Helens. “This forms part of a wider portfolio of heritage-led developments across the town as it continues its town centre regeneration masterplan. “St Helens Council backed our vision to create a Parisianinspired Art Deco rooftop development. The project, in a highly prominent location, has breathed new life into a building that was otherwise on the brink of dereliction and abandonment. “We also believe we’ve created a best-in-class interiors standard over and above any developer currently operating in the build-to-rent market.” For more information about Nicholson Point or to arrange a viewing, call 0151 382 5628 or email office@nicholsongroup.co.uk YM Liverpool 15
NEWS
New vision emerges for Toxteth’s historic Welsh Church
EMERGING PLANS to regenerate the Welsh Church on Princes Road could secure the future of one of Toxteth’s best-known landmarks. Applicant Audsley Holdings, which owns the Grade-II listed church, has spent approximately 18 months carrying out feasibility, design and consultation work aimed at identifying a viable long-term use for the building and surrounding site. Commonly referred to as the ‘Welsh Church’ or ‘Toxteth Cathedral’, the Welsh Presbyterian Church was constructed between 1865 and 1867 to serve Toxteth’s growing Welsh population. It was designed by W & G Audsley, a Liverpool-based architectural practice founded by two Scottish brothers and built by Welsh craftsmen from Cardiff and Swansea. The applicant has assembled a multidisciplinary professional team to explore how the church and wider site could be sensitively restored, adapted and brought back into sustainable use. The local landmark has stood vacant and derelict for decades, suffering extensive weather damage and vandalism, with large sections of its roof lost and parts of the structure requiring stabilisation. The emerging proposals from Audsley seek to retain, repair and sensitively adapt the church as part of a predominantly residential development designed to support the longterm regeneration of the site.
16 YM Liverpool
A range of complementary uses is also being explored, including a gym, visitor centre and café. The visitor centre would pay homage to the history and contribution of Liverpool’s Welsh community, introducing a public-facing element to the development alongside the proposed new homes. Audsley Holdings and its consultancy team have already held informal discussions with Liverpool City Council about the future of the site and the principles behind the potential scheme. A formal pre-application has now been submitted, building on those discussions and opening a more structured dialogue with the council before the plans are developed towards a future planning application. The wider proposals include the conservation and repair of deteriorated
elements of the church, improvements to accessibility, new landscaping and enhanced pedestrian movement through the site. Existing mature trees and the established character of the site are also being considered as part of the developing design. At the heart of the proposals is the aim of securing a viable long-term future for one of Liverpool’s most recognisable historic buildings, with the wider scheme intended to help support its restoration and continued use. HUGH VENABLES / HASSOCKS5489, CC BY-SA 2.0, HTTPS://COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG
The local landmark has stood vacant and derelict for decades, suffering extensive weather damage and vandalism
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‘I thought I could make a out of
living
poetry’
With a voice almost as distinctive as his verse, John Cooper Clarke’s work spans decades, generations and genres. As he embarks on his latest tour, John discusses the joy of performing his poetry to audiences, the connection between Manchester and Liverpool, and what fans can expect from his new anthology, Have It words jack poland
It would show footage from 25 years ago that week. On that day, on that week, 25 years ago, which, of course, seemed like ancient history to me at the time. But, it was something. I mean, mate, we really did have something to worry about [laughs].
There is a sense of humour shared by Greater Manchester and Merseyside. You must be on familiar terrain when you come to Liverpool? Oh, what, northern humour and that? Yeah, well, you’ve got something there. I tell you what keeps me interested in northern humour is The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club, which is enjoying a rerun on Thursday night at 9pm on Talking Pictures TV. My dad used to drink with this cameraman from Granada, a guy So how long ago was the last big tour that you did? called Jerry Nyland. It seems like years. But it probably, well, it But he used to drink in The George in probably was years, but not many of them. Sedgley Park – in fact, Mark E. Smith’s boozer No, but I’ve been doing bits and pieces here I don’t write poetry as it happens, a Boddington’s pub – he got and there, just to keep my hand in. But this is sort tickets for this Wheeltappers and Shunters, which in order to deal with of very meaningful. Big, big houses. was modelled on Bernard Manning’s Embassy Club, you know, with the shredded tinfoil my inner demons. It must be nice to have the opportunity to backstage curtain and misspelt pie menus. perform your poems out loud, to get in front Bernard was the MC, but he’d do the I wrote poetry for of an audience and to say them at last. introductory song and the back credits or the the enjoyment of Oh, it’s the best. It’s the best thing I know. farewell number over the back credits because It’s the only time I remember being in control he was a really good singer. others. of anything. You know, especially as you get older it’s the There is a creative thread that runs through only time that I have complete control over my little piece of comedians, musicians and poets isn’t there? the world. Oh, absolutely. It’s entertainment all the way. I’ve really been doing what I’ve been doing for a lot of years, The guests that they had on, and the comedians, were sensational. decades now, and so it holds no terrors for me. People like George Roper, Frank Carson, Stan Boardman. So terrific. I love that style of comedy. You don’t get nervous anymore? And that was the world I was trying to get into around 1975. I No. The bigger the venue, the better. It only gets embarrassing when thought, how can I introduce my poetry to the general public in an there’s, like, double figures. entertainment kind of setting, rather than some library to five people? I was always ambitious about what I did. Nobody agreed with me Your work is popular with every generation. Are you someone but I thought I could make a living out of poetry. that worries about the future of poetry and whether it’s in And the way I thought I could do it was via cabaret joints, which good hands? Manchester had loads of, second only to the West End of London. No. I don’t think about the future, either positively or negatively. I’m not kidding you. The length of Oxford Road was just jammed all the way. Every block had three cabaret joints on it. I heard you say once that people should read old newspapers just And the standard of acts that they would have on would be the kind to remind themselves what they were told to worry about. of people that had peaked, pop stars who peaked about five years ago. Yeah, exactly. There used to be a TV programme when I was a lad, back in the days when there were only two channels. It was on ITV and was Do you think that’s why your poetry is infused with comedy? called All Our Yesterdays, introduced by a guy called Brian Inglis. Exactly, yeah, 100%. You were writing because you knew it was going
18 YM Liverpool
ED HILL
Your upcoming show at the Liverpool Philharmonic is part of a 20-date tour – not an insignificant size. Are you looking forward to it? Well, it’s a long time since I’ve worked so intensively, but I’ve got a book to punt out, so, you know, I’ve got to do it. But, no, once I get into the swing of it, it hasn’t been a problem. I haven’t really been on a tour this intensive, really, since the tragic death of my best friend Johnny Green, who used to drive me around. Then we used to do some real, like, serious s**t. You know, living on the road, but he was like a cross between his twin idols Mal Evans, The Beatles’ road manager, and Neal Cassady from the Jack Kerouac books. He was a roadie – a roadman before that was a bad thing.
INTERVIEW
to be put in front of an audience like a musician would. I don’t write poetry in order to deal with my inner demons or any of that cathartic s**t. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with it or anything, you know, but that’s not why. That was never why I wrote poetry. I wrote poetry for the enjoyment of others. Always thinking of the other guy. That’s me [laughs]. You’ve referred to your poems as commodities in the past. Once they’re done, they’re out there, they belong to all the people. That’s right, yeah. They’re never finished, really. They’re merely abandoned. I’m always tweaking them. Even if they’ve been published in a book, when I’m reciting them on stage I sometimes realise, ‘That line could be better’. So I’m always tweaking my s**t. It’s a habit I can’t break. They’re never really finished. So it’s quite a traumatic and intense experience whenever I put them into a book. Speaking of books, you’ve got one that was released this month called Have It. Well, that’s why I’m out and about. Well, apart from the fact that live performance is the main thing that I do. It’s the most meaningful and the most lucrative and even the most enjoyable part of what I do. I’m glad I’m doing all these shows. I’m nothing but glad, you know. And if all those places sell out, fantastic. And you will be playing at the Liverpool Philharmonic on the 28 October. Oh, it’s a great room. It’s a great building. It’s beautiful. I once came down to O’Connor’s Tavern. Obviously the first sort of poetic pop phenomenon – Roger McGough has actually been top of the charts alongside John Gorman and Mike McGear. They were great. I went to see them. They used to do shows in Manchester at a place called the Manchester Cavern. When they started playing, it was called the Magic Village. It was in the early days of the hippie flower power. They were a great outfit. Mike Evans on saxophone and Andy Roberts on guitar, and, yeah, they did some great stuff. Adrian Henri doing Batman, and Mike Hart did a song called ‘The Gliders in the
Park and Other Things’, I think it was called. But yeah, I was a big fan of them, the Liverpool scene. In your autobiography I Wanna Be Yours you speak about the view from your bedroom window as a kid and how you could see a motorway and roads going everywhere. It’s a great image of the young John Cooper Clarke looking out at the world and at what could be. Oh, it was fabulous. It was just perfect for a reflective kid like me. It was a motorway, but it was pre-motorways, you know what I mean? They hadn’t even built the Western Bypass. So, consequently, given that there were no motorways, I think it’s fair to say that we lived on the busiest crossroads in the north of England. It carried east or west, north or south, and vice versa. I was a sickly kid, you know. I had TV and that so I couldn’t go out much. I did a lot of reading, or just looking out the window, at the busiest thoroughfare in the north of England. It was just fabulous. I mean, I was the only kid in our school, really, that didn’t live on Coronation Street. Do you reflect much on your childhood in the new book? No. I don’t think there’s a regular thread running through it particularly or anything like that, although I do deal with mortality in it, to a kind of black humour degree, hopefully. There’s the odd directly funny moment in them all. I’m not going to tell you what the best one is but one of them that I’m very fond of is called A Cheap Agnostic Funeral. It’s got a bit of Alan Bennett about it. But it’s got a special guest appearance – a cameo appearance – from the ghost of my dear friend Johnny Green. I can’t let you go without talking about our new prime minister who connects our two great cities. I’m sorry, but our entire political class disgusts me. I met Andy Burnham and he was a very personable guy. He seems like a nice guy, but doesn’t everybody? Nobody’s a c**t until they’re a c**t. You can quote me on that. John Cooper Clarke will be performing at the Philharmonic Hall on 28 October. His latest collection, Have It, is out now YM Liverpool 19
Give your home an
autumn makeover Moodier than summer, richer in colour and unapologetically dramatic – autumn’s got taste. From setting the table for cosy gatherings to giving your porch a seasonal glow-up, discover plenty of ways to bring the best of autumn into your home – with all of nature’s charm and none of the muddy shoes
20 YM Liverpool
HOME
HELLO, COSY SEASON Give your porch an autumn glow-up that feels warm, welcoming, and a just a little bit show-offy. When it comes to autumn, more is definitely more – layer pumpkins, lanterns, potted plants, and wreaths to reach peak cosy.
AUTUMN’S A VIBE This cosy corner makes staying in the best plan of the season. Earthy colours, soft textiles, and gentle lighting set a calm and inviting mood. Add scented candles, grab a warm drink, and fully commit to JOMO (Joy of Missing Out). No regrets.
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PINK IS THE NEW ORANGE Not into classic autumn orange? Go with pink, burgundy and red for a modern, seasonal table. Mix different patterns (tablecloth and tray) with solids (napkins and tableware), while sticking to the same colour palette for a calm and curated look.
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YM Liverpool 21
ADV ERTORIA L
Legacie’s Heap’s Mill regeneration reaches construction milestone Lucy Powell MP, Secretary of State for Education, and Kim Johnson, Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, attended topping-out ceremony
A
major regeneration scheme in the Baltic Triangle has reached a new construction milestone with the topping out of Maritime View at Heap’s Mill. The event marked the completion of the building’s highest structural point and was attended by Lucy Powell MP, Secretary of State for Education, and Kim Johnson, Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, who both met apprentices working on the scheme and heard about their experiences on the project. Developed by Legacie, Heap’s Mill is centred around the restoration of an 18th Century Grade-II listed mill, combining the site’s industrial heritage with new residential, leisure and commercial space. Founded in 1778 by Joseph Heap, Heap’s Rice Mill is one of Liverpool’s oldest surviving warehouse complexes. The building was listed in 2014 and remains an important reminder of the Baltic’s mercantile past and Liverpool’s historic role as an international port. Once complete, Heap’s Mill will comprise 527 apartments across four blocks – Millers Place, Maritime View, Rice Works and The Mill, with the restored mill building forming the centrepiece of the development. The £130 million scheme is being delivered in phases. Millers Place has already been completed and is occupied, while
Maritime View is due for completion in late 2026. Rice Works and The Mill are scheduled to follow in 2028. John Morley, CEO of Legacie, says: “Heap’s Mill is a project that has presented some incredibly complex challenges, but it is also one that carries enormous historical significance for Liverpool. “To see a building that had stood vacant for more than 25 years being brought back to life, while retaining and celebrating its heritage, is incredibly rewarding. We’re not simply creating new homes here; we’re creating a new destination for the Baltic Triangle and opening up a part of the city that has been underused for generations.” Lucy Powell MP, Secretary of State for Education, adds: “Projects like this show the importance of giving young people the chance to learn on the job and develop the skills that will be vital to the future of the construction industry.”
Sainsbury’s signs 15-year deal at 400-home Forge development
Company will open a ‘Local’ store, becoming the first major retailer to take space at the scheme
S
ainsbury’s has agreed a 15-year lease for 4,000 sq ft of retail space at The Forge, a major residential development currently being delivered in Liverpool’s Pumpfields district. The retailer will open a Sainsbury’s Local at the scheme, which is being brought forward by Jarron Developments and will comprise 400 new homes alongside resident amenities and commercial space. The Sainsbury’s Local will serve residents at The Forge as well as the growing residential population across Pumpfields, where a number of new developments are currently planned or under construction. Will Clarke, development director at Jarron Developments, says: “Sainsbury’s is an outstanding addition to The Forge and a significant milestone for the wider Pumpfields regeneration story. 22 YM Liverpool
“A 15-year commitment from a major national retailer demonstrates the long-term potential of the location and reflects our own confidence in the future of Pumpfields. “The Forge is about much more than delivering 400 new homes. Creating a successful and vibrant community means providing the amenities, services and commercial spaces that people need in their everyday lives, and Sainsbury’s will play an important role in that. Jonathan Arthur, Sainsbury’s head of property development, adds: “We’re delighted to be bringing a brand-new Sainsbury’s Local to The Forge and to be investing in the emerging Pumpfields area.” Site enabling and demolition works are set to begin at The Forge in the coming months, including the demolition of the former Marble Hall Café and clearance of the site ahead of construction.
INTERVIEW
‘It’s so hip to be
Irish nowadays…’
The Mary Wallopers’ Charles Hendy talks crossing the Irish Sea to make the band’s new album with The Coral’s James Skelly, feeling at home in Liverpool, and questioning the increasingly fashionable – and commercial – appeal of Irishness words lawrence saunders You recorded the new album Paddywhackery here in Liverpool with James Skelly. How did that come about? It was suggested to us that James should do the album, and we were already fans of what he does. He came over to Dundalk originally for a couple of nights while we were practising and trying to work out songs, and he just observed it all really. I suppose we ended up going to Liverpool because that’s where James works, but we were very happy to be there. We actually love Liverpool even more now after spending so much time there. I think we were there for about a week initially and then spent two weeks straight there, and it was brilliant. It doesn’t feel too foreign to us either, Liverpool. It feels very Irish.
hape of pints and then the next day we’d be saying, ‘No, we’re not being so vulgar today’, and go drink a little wine instead. We had a great time going around Liverpool, and the record shops are f *****g great as well.
Did you get to enjoy the city much or were you stuck in the studio? We didn’t spend that much time in the studio, actually. We’d go in for maybe four or five hours and just hammer through a load of stuff, and then the rest of the time we were enjoying ourselves. We went to different restaurants – Elif on Bold Street was lovely. The Grapes was down the road from where we were staying, so we were there a lot. Then when we got sick of The Grapes, we’d go to this natural wine bar called Bunch around the corner. We’d have a
There is much more original material on this album. Was that a conscious decision? It’s mostly original, yeah. There are maybe a couple of songs that come from old ballads, but even with those we’ve changed lyrics and things. I suppose we were conscious of it to an extent, but even unconsciously things have to move along. We wanted to be saying stuff that was a bit more modern. Before The Mary Wallopers, we were in another band where we wrote our own stuff, so it just naturally happens. We’ve never been ones to go against the general flow of things.
You’ve performed in Liverpool plenty of times over the years, and will be again later this month. Does it feel different playing here compared with other cities in the UK? Absolutely. Liverpool’s the 33rd county. I love the way Liverpool hates The Sun newspaper. I love the people. It feels relaxed and it feels like home. We’ll never skip it on a tour. There are certain places that we always look forward to, and Liverpool is definitely one of them. Better than Manchester anyway [laughs].
It makes sense and we’re very happy with the songs. It feels more exciting. Is there a theme running through the new songs? There’s a lot about identity because it’s so hip to be Irish nowadays. It can be a bit commercial. I think we’re questioning that a little bit. [Irishness] is something that can be sold, and if people blindly go along with it without questioning anything – whether it’s bands, actors or whatever – it can be very commercially viable for them. Our thing is that we don’t really do that. Some of the subjects you tackle in your songs are very serious, but The Mary Wallopers have always had a strong sense of humour too. Is keeping that humour important? One hundred per cent. You can hear it in the new songs. Anything we say, even if we’re trying to be serious, there’s humour in it because that’s just the way we are. Things are that f *****g depressing sometimes that you have to laugh. If you don’t laugh, you’ll f *****g cry. The Mary Wallopers play the Liverpool Olympia on 22 October. Their new album Paddywhackery is out now YM Liverpool 23
NEWS
Liverpool City Region first to sign major housing and regeneration agreement Homes England and National Housing Bank partnership aims to accelerate development and economic growth LIVERPOOL CITY REGION has become the first area in England to sign a new Place Delivery Agreement aimed at accelerating housing, regeneration and economic growth. The agreement between Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Homes England and its subsidiary, the National Housing Bank, will align national investment, capacity and expertise with the city region’s housing and regeneration priorities. The partnership will give the mayor increased influence over housing and regeneration investment decisions, with activity centred around three key areas: transformative growth, strengthening the region’s housing pipeline and tackling barriers to delivery. Major projects identified include the Liverpool North Docks Mayoral Development Corporation, which is expected to help unlock around 17,000 homes and support the long-term transformation of the city’s northern waterfront. The Central Station Gateway is also a priority and is expected to support around 4,300 homes alongside commercial growth, improved connectivity and regeneration across 86 acres of Liverpool city centre. A dedicated Joint Delivery Unit will be created, bringing together
representatives from Homes England, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the National Housing Bank to develop investment-ready project pipelines and accelerate major schemes. The agreement will also support efforts to increase the delivery of social, affordable and council homes across the region. Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram says: “This gives us a real opportunity to get more council and social homes built, get stalled schemes moving and make sure investment is focused where it can make the biggest difference.”
PC&Co strengthens personal injury team
Redwing returns as YM Liverpool Awards sponsor Liverpool property agency has once again pledged its support for the prestigious industry event REDWING WILL CONTINUE its sponsorship of the ‘Emerging Property Developer of the Year’ category at November’s YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards. Part of The Regenda Group, Redwing began life in 1963 as ‘Maritime’ and was heavily involved with the revitalisation of Liverpool city centre. The company led on the redevelopment of Dukes Terraces, the last back-to-back mercantile housing in Liverpool, as well as prominent schemes such as The Foundry and Arts Village. Maritime became Redwing in 2015 and now manages more than 2,000 properties across the Liverpool City Region. The company has a particular focus on bringing new build-to-rent developments to market and providing ongoing block management, supporting registered providers with their resale portfolios, and helping people access affordable routes to homeownership through products such as Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy. Alex Andani (pictured), executive director of property at Redwing & The Regenda Group, says: “The YM Liverpool awards are a great opportunity to recognise new property developers and the impact they’re already making, as well as celebrating the people and projects that have shaped another busy year for Liverpool’s property sector.” The YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2026 will take place at the Titanic Hotel Liverpool on Wednesday 25 November.
Liverpool law firm appoints Peter McKiernan amid continued recruitment drive PAUL CROWLEY & CO SOLICITORS has appointed Peter McKiernan to its personal injury department as the Liverpool law firm continues to strengthen its offering. Peter brings experience of working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and will add further capacity to the team, supporting PC&Co’s handling of personal injury claims across Merseyside and beyond. He also brings a strong focus on client care, with an emphasis on clear communication and providing practical support throughout the claims process. Speaking about the appointment, Peter said: “I am incredibly happy to have joined Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors. “Since joining the firm, I have been made to feel welcome and I am enjoying being part of such a dedicated team. Personal injury law often involves supporting people through some of the most difficult periods of their lives. “I am passionate about helping clients secure the best possible outcomes and providing guidance throughout the legal process.” Peter’s appointment comes amid a wider recruitment drive at PC&Co, with a number of roles currently available across its legal teams. YM Liverpool 25
ADV ERTORIA L
Your Autumn Skin Reset
After months of summer sun, autumn can be a good time to take stock of your skin and address concerns such as pigmentation, uneven texture, dehydration and changes in skin quality
A
manda Azzopardi, founder of Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics, believes autumn is a natural point in the year to reassess your skin and think about what it needs for the months ahead. After increased sun exposure, holidays and changes to our usual routines, concerns such as pigmentation, dullness, dehydration and uneven texture can sometimes become more noticeable. Rather than focusing on one particular treatment, Amanda’s approach is to look at your skin as a whole and put together a plan based around your individual concerns and goals.
What has summer done to your skin? Everyone’s skin responds differently to the summer months. You might notice pigmentation or uneven skin tone becoming more visible, while your skin may feel drier, rougher or less bright. Fine lines and changes in texture can also become more apparent. The first step is understanding what is happening with your skin and what you would genuinely like to improve. When you come in for a consultation, I’ll assess your skin, discuss your current routine and look at the options that may be suitable for you.
microneedling. By creating controlled micro-injuries, microneedling stimulates the skin’s natural repair response and supports collagen and elastin production. It can be considered for concerns including uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, pigmentation and acne scarring, and may form part of a longer-term plan to improve skin quality.
Where can a skin peel fit in?
Professional skin peels can also be a useful addition to an autumn routine. One option is the Obagi Blue Peel Radiance, a superficial chemical peel designed to exfoliate the skin and support a brighter, smoother-looking complexion. Depending on your skin, a peel may be recommended on its own or alongside other treatments. More treatment doesn’t necessarily mean better treatment – it’s about choosing what is right for you.
Supporting collagen and improving texture
Another option we may discuss is 26 YM Liverpool
programme to support concerns including hydration, uneven skin tone and texture, with targeted active ingredients introduced where appropriate. Daily broad-spectrum SPF also remains an essential part of your routine throughout autumn and winter.
Building your autumn skin plan
Tackling pigmentation and uneven skin tone
If pigmentation, sun damage or uneven skin tone are among your main concerns, LaseMD Ultra™ may form part of your autumn skin plan. This non-ablative fractional laser treatment creates microscopic channels in the skin, encouraging its natural renewal process and targeting concerns including pigmentation, uneven texture, fine lines and overall skin quality. For some clients, a course of treatments may be recommended; for others, a different approach may be more suitable. Your plan should always be based on your individual skin rather than a onesize-fits-all programme.
“Autumn is a great opportunity to reassess your skin, look at what has changed and put a personalised plan in place for the months ahead.”
Your skin plan doesn’t stop at the clinic
What you do at home is just as important. As an OBAGI Skincare Ambassador, I’m a strong believer in combining in-clinic treatments with a consistent homecare routine tailored to your skin. Obagi Medical skincare can be incorporated into a personalised
Everything begins with a personal consultation. I’ll assess your skin, discuss any changes you have noticed and look at your existing skincare routine and what you would like to achieve. From there, we can create a tailored plan which might include LaseMD Ultra™, microneedling, Obagi Blue Peel Radiance and personalised Obagi homecare. Autumn isn’t about suddenly doing lots of treatments because summer has ended. It’s an opportunity to reassess your skin, understand what it needs and put a realistic plan in place for the months ahead.
Book your skin consultation now
Call 0151 558 0742 or email contact@amanda azzopardi.co.uk
amandaazzopardi.co.uk | 0151 558 0742
FOOD
PREP 20 mins
Spiced miso ‘caramel’ & apple upside-down cake
COOK 50 mins SERVES 8-10
If autumn were a cake, this would be it. Sticky spiced apples, crunchy nuts and fudgy cheat’s caramel come together in this irresistible upside-down bake. Enjoy a slice with your afternoon cuppa, or serve with a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent dessert
INGREDIENTS
METHOD
• 125ml olive oil, plus extra for greasing
1 Lightly grease and line the base and sides of a 23cm springform cake tin with baking parchment. In a large bowl, mix the miso with 1 tbsp water, 45g sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp ground cloves. Core and slice the apples, toss through the mixture, then arrange in the base of the tin.
• 1 tbsp white miso • 245g golden caster sugar • 2 tsp ground cinnamon • ½ tsp ground cloves • 2 Best of British Apples • 200g ground almonds • 130g plain flour • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp fine sea salt • 3 medium free-range eggs • 2 tbsp roasted salted pecans
2 Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4, and put in a large baking tray to heat up. Put the ground almonds in a large bowl with the flour, baking powder, remaining spices and salt, then mix well and set aside. In a separate large bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whisk the eggs and remaining 200g sugar for 4-5 minutes, until light and
thickened. While still whisking, very slowly trickle in the oil until fully incorporated. Fold in the almond mixture. 3 Spoon the batter into the cake tin over the apples. Put the tin on the hot baking tray, then bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out almost clean. Check after 35 minutes and if the cake is taking on too much colour, cover and continue to bake until cooked. Leave to cool for 10 minutes in the tin, then carefully turn out onto a serving plate and cool completely (or enjoy while still warm). Roughly chop the pecans and scatter over the top, then serve with crème fraîche or Greek yogurt, if you like.
THOUSANDS OF RECIPES CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.WAITROSE.COM/RECIPES
YM Liverpool 27
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NEWS
Steven Gerrard unveils multi-million-pound plans for sports hubs in Liverpool and Knowsley Proposals include new football pitches and padel courts at Childwall Sports and Science Academy and King George V Playing Fields in Huyton LFC LEGEND STEVEN GERRARD has unveiled multi-millionpound plans for new sports and education facilities across Liverpool and Knowsley. The proposals include new 3G football pitches and padel courts at Childwall Sports and Science Academy and King George V Playing Fields in Huyton. Gerrard, the former Liverpool and England captain, is making a significant personal investment in the projects, which are being brought forward alongside Childwall Sports and Science Academy, Lydiate Learning Trust and Knowsley Council. Plans for the Childwall site include three new 3G football pitches and an ambition to establish what is believed to be the UK’s first school-based padel academy. The development would give pupils and members of the wider community access to new sporting facilities, while also creating opportunities linked to education, training and employment. In Huyton, Gerrard is working with Knowsley Council on plans to transform King George V Playing Fields with three new 3G football pitches and a padel centre of excellence. The site is just yards from where Gerrard was born and would be open to the wider community. Across the two proposed developments, the plans could deliver six new 3G football pitches and up to 16 padel courts. Steven Gerrard says: “Liverpool gave me so much growing up, and I’ve always wanted to give something back to the city where I was born and the place I’m proud to call home. “I’m investing in these projects because I believe in the difference they can make for young people. The ambitions for Childwall Sports and Science Academy are incredibly exciting, and it’s been great to work with the Lydiate Learning Trust on this. “It is also fantastic to announce the plan for Huyton because this is not too far away from where I grew up. The facilities will be world-class. “Sport has the power to change lives. It builds confidence, creates opportunity and opens pathways into education, training and employment. We’ve seen that through the Steven Gerrard Academy already. “Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and bringing it into a school setting alongside world-class football facilities will give young people even more opportunities to get active, develop new skills and discover a sport they might never otherwise have tried.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Deputy Leader of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Leader of Knowsley Council, adds: “I am so thrilled to be able to announce this partnership with Steven and to be working alongside him to bring first class sporting facilities to our communities. “As a local lad that grew up just down the road from here, it feels even more poignant that he has chosen to invest in Huyton and I cannot wait to see the plans come to life.” Ann Stahler, CEO of Lydiate Learning Trust which operates Childwall Sports and Science Academy, adds: “We are delighted to partner with Steven Gerrard and his team to create an exceptional new facility for our students and the wider community.”
Preparations for pre-application submissions to Liverpool City Council, Knowsley Council and the Department for Education are underway, with the submissions expected imminently. The proposals are being developed through Box to Box, a venture backed by Gerrard and The Steven Gerrard Academy. The proposed facilities would be available to schools, community organisations and sports clubs, as well as local residents. Subject to planning and the necessary approvals, further details on the level of investment, timescales and delivery of the two schemes are expected to be announced as the plans progress. YM Liverpool 29
So,
BERRY
impressive
Heather Marsh looks at the trees that bring beautiful seasonal colour to the garden, while providing a vital source of food and shelter for wildlife AFTER THE FIERCELY long hot summer, I’m sure that, like me, you’re relishing the gentleness and beauty of this year’s autumn. October is when it all begins in earnest – the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, as Keats so perfectly puts it. Although our deciduous trees are putting on a spectacular show with their colourful seasonal foliage, it’s not all about the aesthetics. This month, I’d also like to draw your attention to the trees that bear fruit. These trees are invaluable to our gardens, with their berries providing an important food source for wildlife during the autumn and winter months, when other sources are scarce.
Birds are the biggest beneficiaries
Migrating birds such as redwings and fieldfares arrive on our shores in autumn; they need to replenish their energy reserves quickly. Calorie-rich berries provide a welcome natural feast, helping fuel them after long and exhausting journeys. For our resident garden visitors, they’re just as important. Blackbirds, thrushes and robins will happily tuck into berries throughout the colder months, while small mammals such as dormice and wood mice also benefit from this valuable source of natural sugars and nutrients. When temperatures fall and other food becomes scarce, those berries can make all the difference. Berry-producing plants also provide much more than food. Dense, prickly favourites such as holly and hawthorn create
30 YM Liverpool
wonderfully secure nesting spots, offering birds protection from predators in spring and somewhere sheltered to hide when winter weather takes a turn for the worse.
Thrush
Rowan ‘Sorbus aucuparia’
The Rowan, or Mountain Ash, is one of those trees that seems completely at home in the British landscape. You’ll see it growing in gardens, parks, streets and open countryside. Incredibly hardy, it is more than capable of coping with less-than-perfect conditions. Its delicate leaves look attractive through spring and summer, while creamy-white flowers appear in late spring. But it is during autumn that the Rowan really comes into its own, with clusters of vibrant berries and often a lovely show of autumn leaf colour too. It is also a magnet for birds.
Thrushes, blackbirds and other berryloving visitors will happily feast on the fruits, which makes the tree a brilliant addition if you want to encourage more wildlife into your garden. The Rowan also has a wonderfully mysterious history. It was once thought to offer protection against witches and evil spirits and was commonly planted near houses and in churchyards. Rowan
GARDENING
Cotoneaster
If I had to choose one group of shrubs that really work hard for their place in the garden, Cotoneasters would be near the top of the list. I planted one in the front garden of our very first house around 40 years ago and I’ve had a soft spot for them ever since. They are wonderfully dependable plants. Creamy-white flowers appear in spring, often covered in bees, followed later by masses of red or orange berries. Many varieties are evergreen or semi-evergreen too, meaning you get useful structure and foliage through the winter. They’re also very undemanding. As long as the soil drains reasonably well, they will grow in a range of conditions, and many are perfectly happy in partial shade. For smaller spaces, Cotoneaster ‘Hybridus Pendulus’ is a lovely choice. It forms a small weeping tree and can even be grown successfully in a large container. If you need something larger, Cotoneaster lacteus makes a fantastic informal hedge. Its arching branches, white flowers and generous clusters of red berries make it attractive for months. It’s also excellent for wildlife, so perhaps think twice before clipping it into absolute submission. A slightly looser shape allows more flowers and berries to develop.
Firethorn
Firethorn ‘Pyracantha’
The name alone tells you quite a lot about this plant. Pyracantha is an evergreen shrub that produces clouds of white flowers followed by spectacular clusters of berries in red, orange or yellow. Trained against a wall or fence, it can look absolutely stunning. It also comes with one very useful extra feature – enormous thorns. For that reason, Pyracantha is often grown beneath windows or along boundaries as a natural security barrier. Believe me, nobody willingly climbs through a mature Firethorn! Despite its fearsome reputation, it’s quite straightforward to grow and will cope with sun or partial shade. ‘Red Column’ is a classic choice for bright red berries, while ‘Orange Glow’ gives you those wonderful glowing orange fruits that look particularly good against dark evergreen foliage. Just one piece of advice: buy yourself a decent pair of thick gloves before pruning it. You’ll thank me later.
flowers to develop into hips gives you another whole season of interest. The native Dog Rose, ‘Rosa canina’, produces small red hips and grows naturally throughout our hedgerows and woodland edges. ‘Rosa rugosa’, meanwhile, produces much larger rounded hips that are incredibly decorative. And then there’s their remarkable history. Rose hips contain high levels of vitamin C and became especially important in Britain during the Second World War, when imported citrus fruits were difficult to obtain. Children were encouraged to collect them and huge quantities were turned into rose hip syrup. Those of a certain age may remember Delrosa Rose Hip Syrup, which remained a familiar childhood remedy for many years after the war. It’s amazing to think that something we now often regard simply as an ornamental fruit once played such an important role in people’s diets. So, while a berry-laden tree or shrub certainly earns its place for autumn colour, it also quietly provides food, shelter and habitat throughout the year. Happily, a beautiful garden and a wildlife-friendly one can be one and the same. Rose hips
Rose hips – a forgotten favourite
Cotoneaster
Finally, I couldn’t talk about autumn fruits without mentioning rose hips. Rose hips are, of course, the fruit of the rose, although many gardeners never see them because we regularly deadhead our roses to encourage more flowers. Come autumn, however, allowing some
Making your own rose hip syrup Rose hip syrup is surprisingly straightforward to make. Collect ripe, bright red hips, ideally after a frost. The cold helps soften the fruit and improve the flavour. If Jack Frost is taking his time, just pop them into the freezer overnight. Wash the hips, remove the stalks
and ends and chop them roughly – a food processor is useful here.
make sure these are completely removed.
Place them in a large saucepan, cover with water and simmer for around 15 minutes.
Return the strained juice to the pan and add around 325g of sugar for every 500ml of juice.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before straining it through fine muslin.
Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved, bring briefly to the boil and then pour into sterilised bottles.
I recommend straining it twice using fresh muslin each time. Rose hips contain tiny hairs around their seeds that can be irritating, so you want to
Once made, it can be diluted with hot or cold water, mixed into drinks or drizzled over porridge, yoghurt and puddings.
UNTIL NEXT TIME, HAPPY GARDENING! HEATHERMARSHYM@GMAIL.COM
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Curlett Jones marks milestone year with £13m portfolio sale
A DVERTO RI AL
From a record deal and industry recognition to a new initiative supporting landlords, the estate agency has plenty to celebrate as it continues to grow across the region
C
urlett Jones Estates has completed the highest-value property transaction in its history, capping a period that has also seen the agency named the North West’s top letting agent at the British Property Awards and host the first event in its new landlord education programme. The Liverpool estate agency recently completed the £13 million sale of a portfolio comprising 190 student properties across the North West and North East. Curlett Jones acted as selling agent on the transaction, managing the process from instruction through to completion. Established in 2020, the agency operates across residential sales, lettings and property investment, with offices on Crosby Road North in Waterloo and Lord Street in Southport, alongside a base in Newcastle upon Tyne. Alan Jones, managing director of Curlett Jones, says the transaction represents an important milestone for the business. “This completion is a significant milestone for Curlett Jones and one that the whole team can be incredibly proud of. “At £13 million, it is the highestvalue sale we have ever completed as a business, and being trusted to act on the sale of a portfolio comprising 190 properties is a fantastic reflection of the experience and expertise we have built within the business. “Transactions of this scale require a detailed understanding of the investment market, strong communication
throughout the process and the ability to manage a complex portfolio sale through to completion. “Our team worked hard to keep the transaction moving and to ensure the process was managed carefully from start to finish, and we’re delighted to have achieved this result for our client.”
Gold standard for lettings
The landmark transaction follows further recognition for Curlett Jones after the agency was named Gold Award Winner for Best Letting Agent in the North West at the 2026 British Property Awards.
The award followed several rounds of mystery shopping, with the Curlett Jones team assessed across email and telephone enquiries as well as face-toface visits. The regional success means the agency will now progress to the national stage of the awards. For the Curlett Jones team, the accolade is particularly significant because of its focus on the customer experience delivered by agents day to day.
Helping landlords stay informed
Curlett Jones also recently held its first ‘Key to Success’ landlord event, bringing together property owners and industry professionals for an evening of education and discussion at Hope Street Hotel. Taking place inside the venue’s cinema room, the event featured speakers from Curlett Jones’ Liverpool property network, including St Giles, Birch Law, Moriarty Mortgages and Elavace. The aim was to move beyond a traditional networking event and provide landlords with practical information they could take away and apply to their own portfolios, particularly against the backdrop of significant changes affecting the private rented sector. Following positive feedback from those who attended, Curlett Jones plans to expand the Key to Success concept with further events, bringing together landlords, agents and property specialists to share knowledge and experience. Future plans include larger events and the potential to live stream sessions to the agency’s international database of overseas property investors. For Curlett Jones, the combination of a record-breaking transaction, industry recognition and continued investment in landlord education reflects how the business has developed since its launch six years ago – while retaining a strong focus on the clients and property owners it works with every day.
YM Liverpool 33
NEWS
What’s on... Events not to be missed over the next four weeks
UK’s first floating padel destination opens at Princes Dock New venue offers players a unique way to experience the sport against backdrop of city’s world-famous waterfront THE UK’S FIRST FLOATING PADEL destination has officially opened at Liverpool Waters, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to Princes Dock. Open seven days a week from 7am until 10pm, Vibora Liverpool Waters features two purpose-built floating courts alongside a Club House. A third floating court is already planned for later this year as Vibora looks to meet growing demand for the sport in the city. The Club House forms the social hub of the destination, offering players and visitors somewhere to meet before and after games, while memberships, corporate packages and private event hire are also available. Gareth Evans, co-founder of Vibora Liverpool Waters, says: “Opening Vibora Liverpool Waters and finally welcoming people onto the courts is an incredibly proud moment for us. “From the very beginning, we wanted to create something that was about much more than padel. We wanted to build a destination and a community that people genuinely want to be part of. “Liverpool’s waterfront is such a special setting and we wanted Vibora Liverpool Waters to give people a completely new way to experience padel. “The response has been brilliant and it’s shown us just how much appetite there is for padel in the city.”
Liverpool Irish Festival, various venues 15-25 October
UK’s biggest Irish festival returns with this year’s theme, I Am Here, exploring arrival, identity and belonging, while reflecting on generations of Irish people who have made Liverpool their home.
10 Oct Lenny Henry: Still At Large, Playhouse 10-11 Oct Comic Con Liverpool, Liverpool Experience Campus 15-17 Oct
nglish National Ballet – E Romeo & Juliet, Empire
Until 17 Oct Letter To Brezhnev, Royal Court 23 Oct – 1 Nov
iver of Light, R Liverpool city centre
24 Oct Steve Backshall’s Deadly Live, M&S Bank Arena 24 Oct – Halloween at 1 Nov Knowsley Safari 30 Oct The Real Thing, Philharmonic Hall
Youth Music Awards to make Liverpool debut
31 Oct The Coral, O2 Academy
The country’s biggest celebration of grassroots music is coming to St George’s Hall
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Mean Girls, Empire 19-31 October
Hit West End musical based on the cult film arrives in Liverpool. Written by Tina Fey, the show follows newcomer Cady Heron as she navigates the ruthless social hierarchy of an American high school, with Jennifer Ellison joining former Steps singer Faye Tozer in the cast.
PAUL COLTAS
THE YOUTH MUSIC AWARDS will take place in Liverpool for the first time later this month, bringing the UK’s biggest celebration of grassroots music to St George’s Hall. The event, which has been held in London since launching in 2019, will take place on 28 October and celebrate emerging artists, young industry talent and grassroots music projects from across the UK. Among this year’s nominees are several Liverpool City Region names, including singer-songwriter Livvy K, rapper KOJ, artist DAYZY, soul singer Bethane and Southport songwriter Astles. More than 60 judges from across music, media and technology will help choose the winners, with representatives from Apple, Spotify, Sony Music, Universal Music Group and YouTube joined by artists including Myles Smith and BICEP. The move to Liverpool will also create 23 paid opportunities for young people to gain hands-on experience in photography, PR, content creation and event production.
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