YM Liverpool April 2024

Country living in Hatton

South American wine

Spring cleaning tips

The Real Greek review

Gilbert Rhod

Welsh comic opens up on his ‘new normal’ ahead of Liverpool shows

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Hello and welcome to the April edition of YM Liverpool!

First up this month we bring you my interview with Welsh comedian Rhod Gilbert as he prepares for two nights at the Liverpool Empire next month as part of his mammoth 100+ date tour, Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit.

The Carmarthen-born star, who has described his new show as “pretty dark”, opened up about his recent health battle, emotional appearance on The Great Celebrity Bake Off and why he owes his stand-up career to a very persistent former girlfriend.

On the property front, we highlight a collection of energy-efficient countryside homes ideally positioned within easy reach of Liverpool and Manchester, and take a look inside a recently completed £3 million Waterloo church conversion.

Meanwhile, our gardening guru Heather Marsh has her head turned by another seasonal beauty, Annie S presents her spring fashion picks and the John Lewis interiors team shares a selection of smart tech and expert hacks which might make your life easier.

Finally, our restaurant reviewer checks out The Real Greek in Liverpool ONE and Jon Atkinson shares his favourites from South America’s two wine-producing powerhouses.

Enjoy!

lemons... life When gives you

Much-loved Welsh comedian Rhod Gilbert is back on tour for the first time since receiving cancer treatment and has two nights lined up at the Liverpool Empire next month. The Carmarthen-born star, who has described his new show as ‘pretty dark’, opens up to YM Liverpool about his recent health battle, emotional appearance on The Great Celebrity Bake Off and why he owes his stand-up career to a very persistent girlfriend

words lawrence saunders

First of all, how are you? You announced the brilliant news last October that you’d had your first clear cancer scan.

I’m alright! I mean, I’ve got lots of ongoing issues around my mouth and throat but broadly, I’m wonderful! If you’ve had radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, as I have, your salivary glands don’t really work anymore so I get a dry mouth and a sore throat a lot. My teeth are a real worry too. But I can live with it! I’ve just moved from a monthly checkup to one every two months. Other than that my life is now fairly back to a new normal.

Your treatment took place at the Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff – a specialist facility you had been a patron of for 10 years before your diagnosis. What motivated you to start supporting the hospital?

Some things you’re a patron of and you’re not that involved whereas for this place I’ve led treks all over the world. I’ve done one [trek] every two years for the last 10 years. I also do stand-up comedy nights and host quizzes. When I started working with them I just knew the hospital had a great reputation, and thought it would be a nice thing to be part of, to promote and raise funds for. I had no idea I would end up a patient there myself. I was literally in Cuba on one of the fundraising treks when the lump popped up in my neck. So I caught cancer on a fundraising walk for a cancer centre! In 2022 I found myself in the weird position of having chemotherapy and radiotherapy in a place with pictures of me on the wall! But this is all good stuff for my new stand-up show which is about my cancer story, but made funny!

How was the writing process for the show? Did you sit down and think, ‘Right, I’ve got to write a funny set about having cancer’, or was it more natural than that?

For a long time, I was very ill and apart from going in for treatment every day, I didn’t really move. But I would jot down things that were happening – not necessarily amusing things, just anything that occurred to me. As soon as I began to get a bit better, I started to turn it into stand-up and it just flowed. It’s the fastest show I’ve ever written. I’ve never written an hour and a half of material this quickly. I guess I’ve never had this much to talk about. So much funny stuff happened [during my treatment].

For a long time I was very ill but I would jot down things that were happening. As soon as I began to get a bit better, I started to turn it into stand-up.

How did you first get into stand-up comedy? Was it something you’d been interested in from an early age? There was no comedy club in my town growing up. I was 27 years old and living in London when my girlfriend at the time took me to my first comedy night. I thought it was incredible but it never occurred to me that I could do something like that. But this girlfriend who I was with just kept on at me to try it. I used to say to her ‘Don’t be daft. I can’t even go into a coffee shop on my own!’. For eight years she kept

trying to persuade me and in the end, I went ‘Alright, I’ll bloody try it’. I owe my stand-up career to that girl. She changed my life. Most of my life I owe to other people picking me up and pushing me out there, because I wouldn’t have done anything. In university, I tried to drop out after three months because I hadn’t been to any lectures and I hadn’t met anyone. I’d been stuck in my room on my own and hadn’t even said hello to the guy next door. So the university intervened when I tried to drop out and they put me with a mentor. They introduced me to this other kid, who was Welsh as well, and he was a bit more confident. He took me under his wing and we’re still great mates. Without him, and without the university intervening, I would have dropped out.

You have written and presented three very personal documentaries. Most recently, last year’s A Pain in the Neck for Channel 4. When did you decide you wanted to do more than stand-up and strictly comedy shows?

I had a show on the BBC called Work Experience which ran for nine series. It wasn’t a documentary, it was more ‘factual entertainment’, but there was a documentary element to it. It seemed like a natural extension of that was to start doing documentaries about issues that were quite personal to me and could maybe be useful to other people. So social anxiety and fertility, they felt like things I had something to talk about and raise awareness about.

Was it quite an emotional appearance competing in this year’s Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer after what you’ve been through? Especially as it was one of the first shows you did after finishing your treatment. It was and I don’t know if they will keep it in the edit but I choked up a few times when they did the interview part of the show. I’m very aware that the cancer I had, I wouldn’t have survived it a few years ago. The only reason I’ve survived is because of the research and the treatments that have improved, which all comes back to funding. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for things like Stand Up To Cancer raising money for cancer treatments. I had great fun doing the show anyway but it was also quite emotional, yeah.

Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit comes to the Liverpool Empire on the 17 & 18 May. Do you enjoy playing in our city?

Yes! It’s famously a city that enjoys comedy and has a good sense of humour. This show is pretty dark but I don’t think Liverpudlians shy away from dark humour so I’m sure it’ll be okay!

Aside from the tour, are there any other projects you are working on that you can tell us about?

I’m hoping that Growing Pains, which is a series I love doing for Comedy Central, will be coming back this year. It’s such a great show. It’s just me talking to comedians, musicians, actors and whoever, about their teenage years – the music, fashions, their love life, issues they had and things they got up to. I’m hoping that we get to record it soon and it comes out before the end of the year.

Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit comes to the Liverpool Empire on 17 & 18 May

First look inside £3 million Waterloo church conversion

New apartment scheme features original stained glass windows and a secret mezzanine

A LIVERPOOL PROPERTY DEVELOPER has completed its transformation of St John’s Church in Waterloo into 10 luxury apartments.

EW Developments has retained a number of original features including the pulpit, stained glass windows and a 130-year-old organ, which was expertly refurbished and now stands in the building’s communal area.

Built in 1865 on the island at the end of St John’s Road, the church was a focal point of the local community for more than 100 years before the congregation relocated to new premises on Picton Road in 2006.

Several of the new one and two-bedroom apartments feature stunning stained glass windows overlooking the dining area, as well as en suite bathrooms and a secret mezzanine room especially designed by EW Developments, which is owned by James Winters and Rob Edwards.

The mezzanine room is reached by entering a doorway hidden amongst the kitchen panels, with stairs leading to the spacious floor above.

The St John’s project follows EW’s successful conversion of Our Lady of Good Help Church in Wavertree into 16 luxury apartments in 2023. In 2019 it transformed an abandoned Victorian building in Kirkdale into the popular Phoenix Hotel.

James Winters, co-owner of EW Developments alongside Rob Edwards, who acted as architect on the project, says: “This is another proud moment for EW Developments to complete this amazing, historic project for our client.

“The finished apartments are a brilliant blend of history, modernity and luxury and the finishing touches Rob has added, such as the hidden room, make this one of the most exciting sites we have worked on.

“We are really pleased to have retained so many original features, from the organ to the stained glass windows, and there has been no expense spared ensuring they have been restored where necessary to the luxury standards EW Developments delivers.

“I can’t wait for the keys to be handed over so the new residents can begin breathing fresh life into the area.”

Domestic abuse –Consult the legal experts

At Paul Crowley & Co solicitors, we are committed to helping end domestic abuse for good. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, our dedicated team of family law experts is here to help

In November 2023, the Office for National Statistics disclosed domestic abuse statistics for England and Wales. The data, spanning from March 2022 to 2023, showed that over 2.1 million adults experienced abuse, with police recording over 850,000 incidents. However prosecutions saw a minor decline, settling to just above 51,000.

These crimes can affect not only the victim’s physical and emotional wellbeing, but also that of their family, friends and livelihood too.

What is domestic abuse?

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (DAA), which came into force in January 2022, gives a legal definition of domestic abuse. Section 1 requires that the people involved are over 16 and “personally connected”, for example, former partners or relatives.

There are different types of behaviour which now constitute domestic violence:

• Physical or sexual abuse

• Violent and threatening behaviour

• Psychological or emotional abuse

• Controlling behaviour – acts which threaten, humiliate or intimidate in order to harm, punish or frighten the victim

• Coercive control – acts designed to make a person subordinate and dependent by isolating them from support, regulating their behaviour and depriving them of independence

• Economic abuse – any behaviour which substantially affects your ability to gain and use money or obtain goods

What can I do as a victim of domestic abuse?

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and are in immediate danger, always call 999 for assistance. You should contact the police and report the abuse as a crime.

At Paul Crowley & Co we can apply for an order on your behalf under the Family Law Act 1996:

• Non-Molestation order: This is an order which prevents your abuser from coming within a specified distance of you and your property or communicating with you in any way

• Occupation order: This is an order which enforces your right to live in the family home and lets you control who comes into your property

If the perpetrator of the abuse breaks the rules set out in a non-molestation order, it can lead to their arrest and a custodial sentence being imposed.

What is a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)?

Introduced by the DAA 2021 legislation, domestic violence protection notices are served by the police on the perpetrator and then approved by the magistrates’ court. They give the victim immediate protection after an incident. The restrictions in the notice appear as a domestic violence protection order which can apply for 14-28 days, and can require the abuser to leave and stay

Edwina Harkin Head of Family, Paul Crowley & Co

away from the victim’s home and surrounding area.

Why choose Paul Crowley & Co solicitors:

Here at Paul Crowley & Co, we understand that domestic abuse is a very sensitive topic, and we will not pressure you into taking any action that you aren’t comfortable with. Our solicitors are here to listen without judgement to your story and find out the best way of proceeding safely.

Although our main goal is to achieve justice for victims, we cover other cases too. For example, if you believe you have been falsely accused of being a perpetrator of domestic violence, our team will hear you out and help you achieve justice.

Paul Crowley & Co… on your side

If you’ve been a victim of domestic abuse or violence and want to know more about your legal options, Paul Crowley & Co solicitors are here to help. Contact one of our friendly team of family law solicitors

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Paul Crowley & Co shows support for local charities

Liverpool law firm delivered Easter eggs to children at three vital initiatives

AS PART OF ITS COMMUNITY outreach, Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors has been actively out and about engaging with local charitable organisations.

With a longstanding commitment to both local and national charities, the Liverpool law firm recently extended its support to three noteworthy causes.

Julie Jones, a member of the management team, personally delivered Easter eggs to the children of two vital initiatives – Merseyside Domestic Violence Services (MDVS), which provides legal advice to victims and families affected by domestic abuse and cultural or

honour-based crimes, and The Indy Pantry, a Bootle-based food bank which ensures families have access to essential nourishment.

Additionally, the firm also organised a heartwarming event at the L6 Community Centre, with an Easter bunny colouring competition for children in the local area. The high standard of entries made judging quite challenging, but in the spirit of celebration, every participating child was a winner, taking home an Easter egg.

Julie says: “The work of these charities and community centres plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable individuals during

Liverpool plasterer honoured with highest trade accolade

Ricardo Gooden granted prestigious title of Master Plasterer at special London ceremony

A LIVERPOOL PLASTERER who has worked on some of the UK’s finest buildings during his 30-year career has been awarded a top industry honour.

Ricardo Gooden of RSTA Gooden was granted the prestigious title of Master Plasterer by the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers at a special ceremony in London on 11 March.

In order to be eligible for the Master Plasterer Award, a plasterer must have been active in the industry for more than 20 years and demonstrate that their work meets the Company’s high standards.

The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers was originally formed as a trade guild of the City of London to regulate the quality of plastering in the City and to safeguard the welfare and interests of plasterers.

Ricardo, who was presented with his Master Plasterer Certificate by the Lord Mayor of London, says: “I’ve worked in restoration and conservation for many years so to be honoured with this award was a very proud moment for me.

“It really meant a lot, especially as only a handful of plasterers are given the title of Master Plasterer by the Company each year.”

Specialising in restoration, conservation and new build, RSTA Gooden’s work involves many aspects of carpentry, joinery and plastering.

challenging times.”

The teams from MDVS, the Indy Pantry and L6 thanked Paul Crowley & Co for its support.

Paul Crowley & Co’s outreach initiatives exemplify its dedication to making a positive impact on charitable organisations within the community, extending beyond legal advice to those in need. The law firm has other local charitable fund-raising initiatives planned throughout the year.

The company has worked on many heritage and listed buildings from National Trust and Royal properties to castles, cathedrals and stately homes.

In 2023, RSTA was commissioned by the trustees of St George’s Hall to produce and install the Royal Cypher of King Charles III on the famous Willis Organ in the building’s Great Hall.

From 22-28 April, explore the city plate by plate with Liverpool Restaurant Week as your favourite foodie spots serve up offers from £5 – £35 all week long!

Visit

liverpoolrestaurantweek.com to find out more!

The Real Greek

If your only experience of a traditional Greek restaurant involved big plates of pork or lamb loaded with feta salad and thick chips, accompanied by dancing and plate smashing, you will be pleasantly surprised by The Real Greek in Liverpool ONE.

Whilst all meat lovers enjoy the usual big Greek meal, especially when ravenous, The Real Greek offers a more refined culinary experience, embodying the best Greek and Eastern Mediterranean gastronomic traditions.

On arrival, my wife and I were taken by the delightful, relaxed atmosphere. The layout is open plan, divided by see-through shelving adorned with traditional Greek pottery and house plants.

We were met by our charming and very helpful hosts, Angela and Laura. On their advice, we choose a glass of Ellinas and Makedonikos, both delicious Greek white wines. The Ellinas was dry and floral whilst the Makedonikos was crisp and fruity.

While there was a vast selection of food

Whilst all meat lovers enjoy the usual big Greek meal, especially when ravenous, The Real Greek offers a more refined culinary experience.

offered on the menu, my wife and I decided on the sharing Meze selection, as a Greek version of Tapas. Encouraged to choose four Meze plates each, we went for it!

Served from tiered plate stands which saved space on the table, our selection arrived virtually all together.

We started with Chicken Monastiraki (£8.75) – delicious chicken thigh marinated in Greek herbs, served with tzatziki, onion and tomatoes – before sharing the succulent Lamb (£9.25) and Pork (£8.50) Skewers which both came with onions, peppers and Aegean slaw.

Next, we tried a mash-up of Lamb Meatballs (£9) and Tonia’s Prawns (£9.25). The handmade lamb patties were grilled and topped with Greek Yoghurt, tomato sauce and onions. The prawns meanwhile came with a rich tomato sauce, Pourgouri (bulgur wheat with tomatoes and onion), spinach, pickled peppers and feta.

Surprisingly we were feeling quite full by this point but still managed to sample the delightful Falafel (£6.95) served with a tahini dip.

After some gentle persuasion, we agreed to a dessert each. I went for the simple yet exquisite homemade Baklava (£5.25) – crisp filo pastry with walnuts peanuts, almonds, pistachios and honey. Meanwhile my better half plumped for the Bougatsa (£5.95), a traditional dessert from Sérres in northern Greece which is Filo pastry filled with custard cream served warm, and topped with vanilla

ice cream and cinnamon.

Finishing off with coffee and Ouzo, we reflected on a thoroughly enjoyable evening at Liverpool ONE’s latest restaurant opening and are already planning a return visit… Yiamas!

By John Lanyon | Greek | ££ | Liverpool ONE, 43 Paradise St, L1 3EU

Restaurant review

Farmhouse charm with modern comforts at New House Farm

From £589,995

WITH A WILDLIFE CORRIDOR and informal open space that will encourage birds, butterflies and bees, New House Farm in Hatton is a slice of country life ideally positioned within easy reach of Liverpool and Manchester.

There’s a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes to choose from, all designed for contemporary living. This time, North West-based Eccleston Homes has given its signature Arts & Crafts style a more rural twist with a farmhouse aesthetic that is synonymous with the setting.

Inside you’ll find that each home has been designed with sustainability in mind – waste water heat recovery, zoned central heating, extra generous insulation, with all appliances rated A for energy efficiency. Outside there are nice details like triple-glazed windows and solar panels. In other words, it’s green outside and in and the perfect blend of snug and stylish.

Close to Moore Nature Reserve with 200 acres of meadows, woods, lakes and ponds, New House Farm is peace personified – a leafy escape from the world, without being isolated from essential amenities and local connections.

Stockton Heath just north of Hatton is a definite destination for small eats, big get-togethers, and casual drinks. And for anything you can’t find at The Hollies Farm Shop, you’re still close to major supermarkets, Warrington Town Centre and the M56, so you can dart straight into Liverpool or Manchester.

Plus, along with Amtico flooring and carpets included as standard, Eccleston Homes has crafted a range of incentives to help make buying, moving and settling in all the more straightforward.

For more information visit www.ecclestonhomes.co.uk/ developments/new-house-farm or contact the team on 01925 939059

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Explore the city plate by plate with Liverpool Restaurant Week

Special seven-day event will feature exclusive dining offers

TUMMIES WILL BE RUMBLING as Liverpool hosts a dedicated restaurant week celebrating the delicious range of food and drink on offer in the city from Monday 22–Sunday 28 April.

Taking place at what can be a quiet week of the year for hospitality, after the Grand National Festival and before the summer events programme begins, Liverpool Restaurant Week has been launched to shine a spotlight on the city’s restaurant sector.

Organised and funded by Liverpool BID Company, the week will see a wide variety of venues taking part with offers ranging for £5 to £35 – allowing visitors to experience the city plate-by-plate and discover new and captivating dining destinations.

Just some of the exclusive offers announced so far include;

• At Lunya, for £35, diners can enjoy a Tapas Banquet of four tapas courses

• Based in Exchange Flags, Fazenda will be offering a Bauru sandwich, a basket of fries and a glass of wine or soft drink for just £15

• At London Carriage Works at Hope Street Hotel during Liverpool Restaurant Week, diners can enjoy two courses from the Prix Fixe menu and a glass of wine or soft drink for £25

• Liverpool’s Marco Pierre White based at Hotel Indigo on Chapel Street is offering a £5 cream tea and hot drink from 12 noon–5 pm everyday

• Enjoy a speciality Lambanana cocktail at Radisson Red for just £5, or five small plates and a bottle of wine for just £35 (or enjoy both!)

• Dine on three courses for lunch for just £25 at Riva Blu

There is also the chance to win a meal for every week of the year with the Restaurant Week Foodie Passport. To be in with a shot, diners just need to pick up a Foodie Passport from any participating Restaurant Week business. Every time a diner uses a Liverpool Restaurant Week offer, they will be able to claim a stamp on their Passport. Once a diner has collected five stamps, they’ll be in with a chance of winning!

Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool BID Company, says: “We are delighted to be launching Liverpool Restaurant Week, with the city having a seven-day celebration of its wide variety of places to eat.

“Our ambition is for people to try something new and find a new venue to visit.

We have followed restaurant weeks delivered in other cities, from New York to Newcastle, and they bring a lot of new diners and a welcome boost to the hospitality sector.

“We have many incredible restaurants across the city centre, so we are delighted for the spotlight to be thrown on them.”

Find the full list of the offers, how to use them and Foodie Passport T&C’s at www.liverpoolrestaurantweek.com. Follow @liverpoolrestaurantweek on social media for the latest restaurant offers

Andes Divided by the

Jon Atkinson shares his favourites from South America’s two wine-producing powerhouses

I HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH to have visited both Chile and Argentina on a couple of occasions when on wine trips – the first time I went, we flew with Varig which tells you how long ago that was! Both countries have evolved significantly in their wine production since then with Argentina having now caught up with Chile on the international stage.

There is an almost inevitable tendency to assume that both countries would enjoy compatible climates, geology, etc, but they are surprisingly different. Chile has arguably the most consistent climate in the wine-growing world, whilst Argentina, by comparison, can and often does vary quite dramatically from one year to the next.

Perhaps the most obvious difference in viticulture is irrigation; both countries do it, but it is much more straightforward (and less necessary) in Chile. The region of Mendoza accounts for about 70% of Argentina’s wine output, and whilst not strictly speaking a desert, is incredibly dry with less than 200mm of precipitation per

year. This makes water a very valuable commodity on the east of the Andes which resulted in a very elaborate system of irrigation channels diverting water from the Rio Mendoza, which is itself fed by meltwater from the Andes.

Over the years these channels have evolved and now feature a series of sluice gates which are used to ration the amount of water going to each vineyard. Once a vineyard has received its allocation, the farmer will periodically employ a technique similar to flood irrigation using channels within the vineyard around the base of the vines. Given the paucity of water availability, several more high-profile wineries have been introducing drip irrigation, which is significantly more efficient, but complex and costly. Given the perilous state of the Argentine economy, uptake has been quite limited so far.

By contrast, the Chilean economy is one of, if not the strongest in South America but the need to invest in such technology is much lower, with the vineyards almost taking care of themselves!

Altitudes Valle Central Viognier Gran Reserva 2023 The Chardonnay vines that produce this crisp and elegant wine are between 30 and 50 years old. Being fairly mature, they give a lovely quality of concentrated fruit which is harvested in the cool of night to help retain the freshness and delicacy of the aroma. Fermentation is temperature-controlled and the wine spends three months on the lees for added complexity. A pure, elegantly dry, precise palate with plenty of lean pineapple and Granny Smith fruit with a subtle creaminess. Crisp with plenty of vitality and a full, well-rounded mouthfeel finishing long and mineral. £8.95

Viña Las Perdices Agrelo Albariño Reserva 2021 Viña Las Perdices (the partridges) story started with Juan Carlos Muñoz who emigrated from Andalucía, Spain in the early 1950’s to grow grapes to sell on to wine producers. It was his two sons Juan and Nicolás who in 2004 decided to take the next step making wines for themselves and building their own winery in the Agrelo district within Mendoza, Argentina’s pre-eminent region. Globally, Albariño has rapidly established itself as one of the more popular white varieties – delicious as an aperitif but really coming into its own when paired with fish or seafood. This excellent example is crisp and fresh, yet rich with a delicate peach character typical of the variety with a long, mineral-imbued finish. £16.50

Valle Secreto ‘Key’ Rapel Valley Carmenère Grand Reserve 2021

Valle Secreto is a boutique Estate of some 38ha in the upper reaches of the Cachapoal Valley. It was established as recently as 2007; a joint venture between two wine-loving families. As you would expect with such a relatively small operation, pretty much everything that happens in the vineyard is done by hand, and although not certified as organic, they very much work to those principles. ‘Key’ is a new range of single-varietal reds made from fruit brought in from the Rapel Valley. The Carmenère is medium deep, ruby red with a garnet rim and a richly fruity nose. The palate is medium – full-bodied, supple and juicy with slightly spicy red fruit flavours and a long, slightly mineral finish.

Viña Las Perdices ‘Exploración’ La Consulta Malbec 2018 From relatively humble beginnings, this Estate now stands at 93ha planted to 17 different grape varieties, although Malbec, inevitably, accounts for the largest surface area. Very much the signature Argentine variety, it’s easy to forget that Malbec actually originated in France. The Exploración range looks to showcase individual sub-regions with varieties to which they are suited, with La Consulta a highly regarded sub-zone of the Uco Valley. This is an expressive and elegant wine with red and dark fruit aromas embellished by subtle oaky notes and a hint of graphite in the background. It is supple and juicy in the mouth with blackberry and red cherry flavours backed by fairly gentle tannins.

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Spring cleaning tips for a home you can relax in Smart tech and expert hacks to make your life easier

WHEN THE URGE TO DECLUTTER takes over: seize it. Follow our step-by-step guide and discover an unbeatable range of spring cleaning heroes online and in store. Let the smart tools do the hard work – saving you time and effort.

You’re going to want to carve out some time to spring clean. Don’t leave it until 5pm on a Friday afternoon, only to have plans an hour later and for the rest of that weekend. Start small – we’re talking small small. Dispose of receipts, boxes and bits of paper you won’t need again. Pair up the socks, put away the hair ties strewn across the floor. Micro jobs lead to macro results.

If you don’t have the budget for new cupboards and other bits of furniture to help make your home more organised, stock up on small but mighty things such as organisers that make use of empty undershelf space and storage baskets. When it comes to clothes, a good rule of thumb is that if you haven’t worn it for this season and the last, it’s got to go. Pass it on and let it have a new life in someone else’s wardrobe.

n SMART TECH CLEANING IDEAS

Remember, there are parts of your home that need and deserve a proper deep clean at this time of year. Your washing machine, oven and microwave need to be cleaned at 90 degrees; descale your iron and kettle; sofas and any standalone furniture can be pulled out so that the floor and walls surrounding them can be properly cleaned. And for that little extra help, the right cleaning tools are essential. Miele, Dyson and Shark are all popular for a reason.

The days of lugging around a bulky vacuum are gone, thankfully. Pick the right vacuum cleaner for your needs…

Best for pet owners Miele Complete C2 Cat & Dog Vacuum Cleaner (£239)

Best for stubborn stains Shark StainStriker Carpet Cleaner (£149.99)

Best lightweight vacuum Shark IW3611UKT Detect Pro Auto-Empty System Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner (£449.99)

Bestseller Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner (£279.99)

Shark StainStriker Carpet Cleaner

£149.99

Or join the robot hoover revolution and get ready to have your life transformed. The Samsung Jet Bot Robot Vacuum Cleaner (£399) has a LiDAR Sensor to accurately track and help it increase ground coverage, so more of your home gets cleaned.

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

£279.99

Samsung Jet Bot Robot Vacuum Cleaner

£399

n HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME TIDY

Now you’ve finished the spring cleaning, take a moment to straighten things out. Plump up the cushions, empty the bins, change your bedding, put underlay beneath your rugs – small changes like these will give your home a proper refresh and get you falling back in love with it.

Slatted Bathroom

Tallboy

£300

There are clever ways to keep your place tidier in the long term and to save you time. Get a clothes rail with two shelves at the base which can be used to store shoes, put washing-up tools in a sink tidy (this will help keep them cleaner as well as looking nice) and install a freestanding slim bathroom cupboard (£300) where the spare toiletries and towels can live. Keeping floors clean needn’t be back-breaking – the Oxo Upright Sweep Set (£20) has teeth in the dustpan to clean the brush, and a flexible lip means no dust or dirt on the floor gets missed. Make savvy electrical purchases like Samsung’s ceramic microwave (£159) – its antibacterial and scratch-resistant interior is made to last. And save on elbow grease with the Neff Built-In Electric Self Cleaning Single Oven (£729), which has a ‘slide and hide’ door (easier to clean) as well as two self-cleaning options. Yes, please.

Bamboo and Rattan Clothes Rail

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Local musicians offered chance to win paid gig at Liverpool Celebrates The Mathew Street Festival

The two winning bands or artists will be awarded a slot on the event’s star-studded ‘Saturday Party at the Pier’ line-up

Talented local musicians are being offered the chance to perform on the same stage as The Jacksons, Holly Johnson and The Lightning Seeds this summer as part of Liverpool Celebrates The Mathew Street Festival.

The two bands or artists will be awarded a paid slot on the event’s star-studded ‘Saturday Party at the Pier’ line-up on 24 August – the second day of the four-day festival which is set to attract thousands of visitors to Pier Head over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Finalists will perform against each other in a ‘Battle of the Artists’ style competition, with the winners chosen by a judging panel featuring some of the city’s most well-respected music figures including Dave Monks from BBC Music Introducing; MOBO Award winner Esco Williams; head of UNESCO City of Music Kevin McManus and Rheana Forrester, curator of The Narrative events for singers and songwriters.

Liverpool Celebrates The Mathew Street Festival is being delivered by Liverpool Celebrates, a collective of local independent event professionals responsible for some of the best

independent events around the city. Their ambition is to bring Liverpool together and celebrate its people, culture and musical heritage. The collective plans to use as many local businesses and suppliers as possible to produce the weekend’s festivities.

Over the four days, music fans can expect to see more than 40 artists performing beneath the iconic Liver Building, with dozens of local street food and drink options available inside the festival.

Liam Spence, marketing and communications director at Liverpool Celebrates, says: “Liverpool is a city renowned for its musical heritage and there is so much incredible talent in every corner of the region.

“We want to recognise that talent and provide local bands and artists with the opportunity to showcase what they’ve got, performing in the same spot as the Lightning Seeds, Holly Johnson and The Jacksons, to name but a few of the incredible artists set to grace the stage this August

“We encourage all local musicians to send in demos and videos for the chance to perform at what will be a fantastic weekend for music in

To enter, local bands and artists need to send a demo or video of themselves performing to artists@ liverpoolcelebrates.co.uk before Monday 15 April

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One Vision Housing’s new Crosby development taking shape

Moorside Place will include 72 Rent to Buy apartments and four commercial units

WORK ON A NEW MIXED-USE development in the heart of Crosby Village is well on track with the building’s steel frame now in place.

Moorside Place, which is being delivered by The Sovini Group’s commercial supply chain for One Vision Housing (OVH), will support local people onto the property ladder with 72 Rent to Buy apartments.

OVH has recently launched an interactive site plan for Moorside Place which allows potential residents to explore the development, house types and floor plans along with the available plots.

Through One Vision Housing’s Rent to Buy scheme, residents will benefit from affordable rent, priced at around 20% less than the market rent, enabling them to save towards a deposit and buy the apartment

they live in through Shared Ownership or an outright purchase.

Expected to complete in late 2024/early 2025, the scheme will also include four commercial units and interested parties are being encouraged to get in touch as early as possible in order to secure one of the versatile spaces. The units have particular potential for businesses seeking to reach families and young people.

To register your interest in one of the new apartments at Moorside Place visit www.ovh.org.uk/developments/moorside-place.

Businesses interested in leasing a commercial unit at the scheme should contact sales@ovh.org.uk

Family-owned estate agency excited for future after redefining model

North Wall Property’s move off the high street helps it to better focus on clients’ needs

A LIVERPOOL ESTATE AGENCY has reflected on how a bold decision to close its high street office has led to a period of sustained success.

North Wall Property opened in Maghull in 2019 and within 18 months had gone from a standing start to challenging for the title of local market leader.

After shelving plans to move to premises at the town’s Central Square retail development, North Wall “took a risk” and relocated to Liverpool Road Studios – a new mixed-use development in Crosby.

Craig Thompson, managing director of North Wall, says: “Moving to Liverpool Road Studios wasn’t just about being in a really cool building with bars and other cool businesses, it allowed us to stay off the high street and not be tied to a specific area.

“We had to be mindful of what it is that we set out to do as well. We’ve never been a ‘stack ‘em high, sell ‘em cheap’ agency.

“Having an off-the-high-street office where our admin team is based means our valuers can be hyper-local, spending all of their time on their patch and being a part of their community.”

North Wall’s revised approach appears to be paying off. Last year it sold 86% of the properties it brought to market and on average, clients received 2% more for their home.

To help facilitate further growth, North Wall has welcomed a new sales manager and its first partner, who will work alongside director Kate Gostelow.

Meanwhile, the agency has also been chosen to market a new build development in Bretherton, Lancashire, and have already sold a handful of homes before taking the site live.

Craig adds: “We’ve worked on conversions before but Orchard Meadow is our first new build site, and the attention to detail, quality and finish is right up there. We’re really proud to be working on this.

“We can’t wait for the rest of 2024 to unfold, we’re really excited!”

Knowsley-based energy retrofit firm signs £9m contract with Manchester City Council

Next Energy will be installing a range of energy efficiency measures in 500 homes across Manchester as part of the deal

Energy retrofitting specialist Next Energy has signed a £9 million contract with Manchester City Council which will see energy efficiency measures installed in 500 homes.

The deal is a part of the government’s Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG2), a scheme designed to improve the energy performance of eligible homes across the UK in order to meet the national net zero target by 2050.

Manchester City Council has a more ambitious target to be net zero by 2038, further emphasising the importance of this project for the city.

Knowsley-based Next Energy will be installing a variety of measures including various insulation measures, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and solar PV panels amongst other items.

Lee McNally, director at Next Energy, says: “The Home Upgrade Grant is a huge step towards decarbonising the UK’s housing stock, and our partnership with Manchester City Council gives low-income families the chance to properly insulate their homes and save over £500 a year on bills.

“We want to tackle fuel poverty head-on, and these grants will help us deliver much-needed energy improvements to hundreds of households across Manchester.

“Applications take no more than 10 minutes to complete and we encourage everyone who thinks they might be eligible to apply for funding.”

Councillor Gavin White, Manchester City Council executive member for housing and development, adds: “Our ongoing efforts to retrofit properties across Manchester plays a hugely

significant role in our aim to become a zero-carbon city, and the rollout of the HUG2 programme is a key part of this ambition.

“This scheme will help residents reduce their energy bills, benefit our communities by reducing carbon emissions, and contribute to the wider decarbonisation process in Manchester.”

“We want to tackle fuel poverty head on, and these grants will help us deliver much-needed energy improvements.”

Magnificent

Magnolias

WHILE STILL CATCHING MY BREATH

from all those stunning Camellia’s last month, (some are still flowering their hearts out even now), April sees the turn of another diva to step into the spotlight. Classic, elegant and truly stunning in bloom, the beauty of a Magnolia tree is hard to beat.

These widely-grown ornamental trees have been around for a very long time and are in fact one of the most primitive plants in evolutionary history – their ancestors grew more than 50 million years ago! Cultivated in China as far back as the 7th Century, the magnolia tree was held in such high regard that it was given royal status – meaning that only the Emperor himself was allowed to grow or gift the flowers. The magnolia tree as we know it was named after Pierre Magnol, a 17th Century French botanist. With over 200

varieties of the magnolia genus, most of which are deciduous, it’s Magnolia x soulangeana which is the most commonly grown variety here in the UK. With its pink tulip-shaped flowers born onto bare branches, there’s nothing quite like it for show-stopping impact.

Size matters

If you’ve been wooed by the sight of these magnificent trees growing near you and have decided that now is the time to plant your own, then let me help. Magnolias can be trees and shrubs of all sizes. Larger species need plenty of room with some reaching up to over 60ft in height so smaller varieties might be the better option. Many magnolias also grow happily in containers as small trees or compact shrubs – making them an ideal choice if space is at a premium. So, whatever

your specification there is a magnolia for you. If you want yours to flourish it needs to be planted in the right place. Most magnolias appreciate and grow best in a warm sunny spot or partial shade. Fertile soil that’s acidic to neutral and well-drained is ideal as well. A spring feed of a slow-release fertiliser is often welcomed with a dressing of ericaceous compost if you’re feeling generous. However, magnolias once established are hardy plants and can be left alone to get on with it. Shallow planting especially in borders for larger species is recommended as roots are inclined to grow horizontally as opposed to deeper and more vertically.

If you have plenty of space the largest magnolia trees are outstanding as a standalone specimen – majestic in the middle of a lawn or as a front garden focal point.

Heather Marsh gets her head turned by another seasonal beauty…

Take your pick!

Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ is a petite purple flowering variety which thrives in pots and containers. Compact and deciduous, this one is ideal for the smaller garden. Other smaller varieties include the Black Lily, which I grow in my own back garden as a shrub. It’s about 20 years old and looks stunning right now in full bloom.

Magnolia stellata or Star

Magnolia as it is commonly known is quite distinctive from all the other varieties mentioned. A slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree, this petite magnolia bears star-shaped white flowers with a delicate fragrance. Ideally suited to the small garden or can be grown in a container. Water Lily and Rosea are two other worthy varieties to consider.

Magnolia grandiflora is the most popular of the evergreen varieties reaching up to 12m in height. With dark glossy green leaves and cream-coloured perfumed flowers, this makes for a real statement tree if you have the space for it. It occasionally bears cone-like fruits and is also known as the Bull Bay magnolia.

As already mentioned, Magnolia x soulangeana is the most widelyplanted and traditional variety of magnolia – a classic example that can be grown as a shrub or tree and is suitable for the average-sized garden.

Bloomin’ marvellous

With camellias being the best I’ve seen them in years and stunning examples bloomin’ everywhere, my husband is sick to the back teeth of me gushing away about yet another example wherever we go. However, I have to admit it has had me scratching my head as to why. That was until I had my lightbulb moment! Now at my age, you don’t get many of those, so I definitely want to share this one with you. Camellias grow and form their buds in the summer months before they flower the following year. It’s absolutely crucial therefore that plants stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Now, with us having one of the wettest summers on record last year it suddenly dawned on me that of course that’s why these camellias have flourished and flowered so amazingly well. All that rain last July and August meant that the buds grew bigger and better, resulting in this year’s bumper floral bonanza! I’m not going to say I want another soggy summer like 2023, but what’s the saying? Every cloud…!

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What’s on...

Events not to be missed over the next four weeks

Cirque du Soleil: OVO, M&S Bank Arena

Van Gogh spectacular announces extension to Liverpool dates

Huge demand for tickets to UK premiere of immersive art attraction

Beyond Van Gogh

AN AWARD-WINNING EXHIBITION of Vincent van Gogh’s life and work comes to Liverpool in a UK premiere this summer – and producers have revealed they are extending its run due to overwhelming demand.

Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is set to be staged at Exhibition Centre Liverpool, opening on 27 June.

Timed tickets went on sale last month, and demand proved so high that a few of the show’s weekend sessions are already sold out. As a result, producers Annerin Productions and Paquin Entertainment Group have made the decision to extend its initial two-and-ahalf week run by a further 10 days.

It means the experience will now be open to visitors daily until Wednesday, 24 July.

Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience combines more than 300 of the postImpressionist icon’s paintings with cutting-edge technology and a specially curated musical soundtrack to tell the story of one of history’s most influential artists.

Beginning in the Introduction Hall, visitors connect with Vincent van Gogh through personal letters he wrote to his brother, and greatest supporter, Theo. Guests then move into the heart of the exhibition – the Immersive Room – where Van Gogh’s paintings are liberated from their two-dimensional realms and rendered into three-dimensional, fully immersive scenes that swirl and flow with colour and movement.

There is also a chance to take part in special Saturday morning yoga sessions inside the exhibition itself. Meanwhile, VIP Experience tickets include selected Beyond Van Gogh merchandise along with flexible arrival times and fast-track entry.

Annerin Productions chose Liverpool for the premiere after having had previous experience of the city through its hit Broadway and West End Beatles’ musical revue show Let It Be

11-14 April

Cirque du Soleil returns to the UK for the first time in six years with its newly revisited high-octane and high-acrobatic production OVO. A colourful intrusion into a new day in the life of insects, OVO is a non-stop riot of energy and movement.

10 April An Evening with Anthony Horowitz, Waterstones

19 April BOXPARK Liverpool Launch Party, Cains Brewery Village

23-27 April The Kite Runner, Playhouse

27 April Tommy Tiernan, Philharmonic Hall

2 May Jess Glynne, Jacaranda Baltic

Boys From The Blackstuff, Royal Court

19 April–11 May

Some 40 years after Alan Bleasdale’s ground-breaking television series was essential viewing, the Royal Court presents a powerful new adaptation by James Graham, writer of the hit BBC series Sherwood.

EXHIBITION CENTRE LIVEROOL

LIMITED RUN 27 JUNE - 24 JULY

BOOK NOW: ticketquarter.co.uk