YM Liverpool August 2021

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N E WS | I N T E R I O R S | H O M E S | L I F E ST Y L E | FAS H I O N | GA R D E N I N G

www.ymliverpool.com AUGUST 2021

Merseyside’s most exciting

neighbourhood?

Introducing East Float at Wirral Waters

Staycation style Recipe of the Month Summer wines Property in Focus

Simon Amstell speaks to YM 1

YM Liverpool

m We e h p o p t post! e h t in

Hey Liverpool! Our iconic cupcakes are now available for nationwide delivery, to celebrate use promocode LolasLiverpool10 at checkout.

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issue #494

August

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ello and welcome another jam-packed edition of Liverpool’s biggest free magazine.

First up we bring you our chat with comedian and filmmaker Simon Amstell ahead of his eagerly anticipated date at the Philharmonic Hall next month.

The former Never Mind the Buzzcocks host explained how after months of lockdown left him contemplating life, the universe, and his stand-up, he’s more than ready to get back out on the road with his new show, Spirit Hole.

On the property front, the trailblazing East Float development at Wirral Waters goes under the spotlight and there’s news of luxury apartments tempting buyers back towards the city centre post-lockdown.

Plus we go inside a spacious family home available at Castle Green’s Queensbury Manor and report on a landmark Build to Rent scheme topping the charts.

Elsewhere our reviewer spent an evening checking out a new Greek street food restaurant on Bold Street and we’ve got a splendid seabass recipe for you to try.

And with temperatures set to rise once again, we’ve got some expert tips for getting a good night’s sleep and our new wine guru picks out some delicious rosés to be enjoyed well-chilled.

Finally, our fashion editor has curated a stylish selection of pieces ideal for a summer staycation and Heather Marsh shows us how easy it is to bring a little bit of the Mediterranean to our gardens.

Enjoy!

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COVER IMAGE INSET: HARRY CARR

AUGUST 2021

Editor: Lawrence Saunders [editor@ymliverpool.com] Design: Marten Sealby

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Focus

Simon Amstell speaks to YM 1

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After lockdown left him contemplating life, the universe, and his stand-up, Simon Amstell is more than ready to go back out on the road.

We caught up with the comedian and filmmaker ahead of his September date at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

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’m always very excited about playing Liverpool”, says Simon “A lot of the show is about getting older,” he says. He turned 40 Amstell. The Ilford-born comedian and filmmaker is speaking in November 2019, a milestone he struggled with. “We’re in a ahead of his return to the world of stand-up, as he prepares culture where we’re told there are options and we’re sold anti-ageing to bring his new show Spirit Hole to audiences this autumn. products, whereas really the advert should say: ‘Hi. Nothing can be “A blissful, spiritual, sensational exploration of love, sex, shame, done. Maybe get a hobby.’” mushrooms and more”, this 39-gig odyssey, which arrives at Liverpool Amstell has honed his style of confessional comedy, not just in Philharmonic Hall on 15 September, promises to be on a par with his stand-up but also on the BBC2 sitcom Grandma’s House, which he 2019 Netflix special Set Free, which took viewers on a surreal meander wrote and starred in. He continued this semi-autobiographical streak through Amstell’s fertile mind. with 2018’s feature film Benjamin, which he wrote and directed.

“When I first started touring, I thought it was a silly thing to be Dubbed “funny, charming and overpoweringly personal” by The doing,” he admits. “I felt like I should just stay in London. And people Guardian, it told the story of a filmmaker, played by Colin Morgan, should come to me! Like The Lion King…I thought I should be like preparing to premiere his second movie as he falls in love with a The Lion King!”

French music student named Noah. “I really loved directing,” Amstell After months of lockdown left him reflects. “I had an idea that I would love to do it. contemplating life, the universe, and his standBut then when I was actually doing it…every up, Amstell is more than ready to go back out day it was just such a joy working with actors I think I really on the road. “The show’s better now as a result and hearing and seeing what you’ve written come of all this,” he says. “If there’s a silver lining, learned to surrender to life.”

I may be funnier!” Certainly, fans of his acute Such were the artistic pleasures of Benjamin, during lockdown. observational humour won’t be disappointed.

Amstell is already planning another experience Right back to his early forays at the Edinburgh behind the camera. He’s written a script, this time We’re all under the Fringe and shows like 2010’s Do Nothing, Amstell with a female protagonist, and has already begun has proved himself a master at skewering his own the long process of getting it financed and cast. illusion that we’re in social embarrassment. Like a self-help guru, but a “Ideally we will shoot it next year,” he explains. control of our lives. thousand times funnier.

Before that, there’s the little matter of the Spirit Take shame, an emotion he tackles in this new Hole tour, which concludes at the prestigious show. “I feel like I clear away a lot of shame by London Palladium in November – almost fulfilling saying the stuff out loud that I’m worried about saying,” he says. his fantasy of a Lion King-style West End residency.

“What I’m really scared of is not saying everything [but] leaving He feels “optimistic” – a light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel feeling something out and then it remains this little demon in my head that’s – after the year that the world has endured. “This is a planet we’re making me feel like there’s something wrong with me. But the second not treating very well,” he says, “and my hope is that we have been I say the thing out loud that I feel embarrassed or ashamed to say challenged enough to change in some way.” Rest assured, though: and realise that nothing happened, nobody walked out the room, it’s Spirit Hole won’t be one long gig about Coronavirus. “I feel like not incredibly freeing.” mentioning it would be a bit peculiar, but then going on about it While many have fallen prey during lockdown to dark thoughts, would be slightly unbearable. I’ll only be discussing it through the Amstell seems to be flourishing. “I think I really learned to surrender. prism of my own weird emotions.” We wouldn’t want it any other way.

Finally, we’re all under the illusion that we’re in control of our lives.

And this was pretty strong evidence that we’re definitely not.”

Simon is playing Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on 15 September.

Ageing – another thing we can’t control – is also a big theme.

See www.simonamstell.com for details

Hi Ho

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INTERVIEW

Lining photography harry carr

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NEWS

SCOUSE BOLLYWOOD STAR PRAISES ‘WONDERFULLY KIND’ GESTURE FROM LIVERPOOL HEALTH FIRM Amy Jackson has praised a city health firm which responded to an urgent call for help from India, amidst the country’s continuing COVID-19 crisis INDIA HAS EXPERIENCED a catastrophic surge in coronavirus cases this year and infection rates are the highest ever seen, nearly tripling the peak in 2020. It is currently the world’s second worst-hit country, and hospitals are struggling to cope with the number of new cases.

Bollywood star Amy Jackson has praised Liverpool’s DAM Health where Professor Frank Joseph (left) has been supporting the

Now, following an urgent appeal from the Hope Foundation – an international charity which works with children in Kolkata, a Liverpool health business has stepped up to help.

DAM Health Group has sent vital air conditioning equipment plus Covid-safe protective kits including masks and sanitisers, whilst also donating large sums to help fund ventilators in hospitals in the region.

And its efforts have been applauded by Scouse Bollywood actress Amy Jackson.

The film star, who grew up in Liverpool, says: “This is a wonderfully kind gesture which is making a real difference to the lives of people in Kolkata who are being so badly affected by the ravages of COVID-19.

“The supplies sent across such as air conditioning units and testing kits will help the situation immeasurably. It is incredible to see a Liverpool business stepping up to offer so much help – Frank Joseph and his team should be proud.”

DAM Health is a Liverpool-based COVID-19 testing business which operates throughout the UK and Europe. The

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Conor Coady, Trent-Alexander-Arnold and Jamie Carragher

company also recently opened new testing sites in Mexico.

Professor Frank Joseph, director of Dam Health, adds: “Tackling COVID-19 is a global effort. We’re working to keep the virus under control in the UK, but it is vital that we support other nations too. I am proud that DAM Health can help in this way by partnering with the Hope Foundation.

“Amy is a massive star in India so it is lovely to hear her kind words about what we are doing to help the international Covid relief effort.”

Ms Jackson is due to meet medical chiefs at DAM Health to discuss ways in which it can further assist with the ongoing crisis in the country.

Meanwhile, DAM Health has teamed up with a new charity in order to help the most deprived young people in Liverpool.

Football For Change, launched by LFC star Trent Alexander-Arnold, brings together sports stars and business leaders to help young people get into education or find employment opportunities, as well as supporting others who face barriers unlocking their full potential.

The likes of England and Wolves centreback Conor Coady have backed the initiative, while legends such as Steven Gerrard, Gary Lineker, Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville have also put their name to the initiative in an effort to help opportunities arise for disadvantaged young people.

Carragher adds: “With DAM Health supporting Football for Change, the lives of young people, who’ve often felt left out or left behind, are going to change and they will be given a much fairer chance in life.”

MAIN IMAGE: IP PUBLICITY, CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

COVID-19 relief effort in India

20 NEW LUXURY

A DEVELOPMENT

A PA R T M E N T S

ALEXANDRA DRIVE, AIGBURTH

BY R E DW I N G

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LUCHON VILLA

THE DEVELOPMENT IS I N WA L K I N G D I S T A N C E OF THE 235 ACRE, GRADE 1 S E F T O N PA R K , W H I C H B O A S T S A B O AT I N G L A K E , C A F E S & P L AYG R O U N D.

Luchon Villa is Redwing’s latest development of 20 one and two-bedroom apartments, available for sale through shared ownership. Just moments from Lark Lane and with Sefton Park on your doorstep, Luchon Villa puts you in easy reach of cosmopolitan bars and restaurants, the tranquility of the park, and the bustle of Liverpool City Centre. Luchon Villa’s luxury apartments are not just in an enviable location, all come with high quality fixtures and fittings. Reserve now for only £250!

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YM Liverpool

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ADVERTORIAL

Accepting a police caution – consult the legal experts

Emma Smith Director, Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors

If you are contacted by the police in England to attend an interview under caution, often referred to as a voluntary interview, it is important that you understand the seriousness of what you say or don’t say to the police. The criminal law team from Paul Crowley & Co solicitors will provide you with free expert legal advice and accompany you to the interview so that you are aware of any consequences should you accept or refuse a caution A voluntary police interview can seem very informal, however the interview will be recorded and can be used as evidence resulting in the commencement of criminal proceedings.

What is a police caution?

A caution is a formal notice given when you admit to an offence. There are two types of caution: Simple: Issued where there is enough evidence that the police think there would be a possibility of conviction if there were a court case. You must also have admitted to the offence and agree to accept the caution.

Conditional: These are the same as simple cautions except have conditions attached, which, if you don’t follow, will result in you being charged and required to go to court. They could include conditions such as repairing criminal damage or going to treatment for drug abuse.

What is the police caution wording?

The wording of a Police caution is: “You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention

when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence”. Our expert lawyers at Paul Crowley & Co will be able to advise you as anything you say to the police will be recorded and used as evidence.

When are cautions given?

Cautions will only be offered to you where the offence is very minor or if you are a first-time offender. If you already have a caution and are accused of another offence, it is unlikely you will be offered another unless the offences are minor and unrelated to each other.

Does a police caution go on your record?

Yes, it will be recorded against you on the police national computer so you will have a criminal record. Police cautions are disclosed on standard and enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) service checks for 6 years after they are issued, but they can appear on your record for longer than that because the police have the discretion to disclose cautions even after this time period if they feel it is relevant.

What does not accepting a caution mean for you?

If the police have sufficient evidence and you refuse the caution, they will likely charge you with the offence and you will be required to attend court to make a plea. This could potentially lead to a criminal conviction, which is more serious than a caution.

Should I accept my caution?

If you are already employed, find out what your contract says about disclosure of cautions. If you are planning on applying somewhere where they are likely to carry out a standard or enhanced DBS check (like teaching or care work) then consider whether the caution is related to that employment. You would also want to know whether the offence is eligible to be filtered after a certain amount of time.

If you have been offered a police caution, call our friendly team of experts at Paul Crowley & Co and we will provide you with initial free legal advice. If you ask for a solicitor at the police station, Paul Crowley & Co will attend within 45 minutes.

Before attending a police interview under caution, call the legal experts at Paul Crowley & Co on 0151 264 7363 www.paulcrowley.co.uk

NEWS

MOOSE COFFEE OPENS NEW RESTAURANT AT LIVERPOOL WATERS Brand new 60-seater branch boasts panoramic views of the historic Princes Dock THE INDEPENDENT, family-owned restaurant serves American Canadian inspired breakfasts and brunches all day long. It’s Moose’s seventh UK branch and fourth on Merseyside.

The new 1,700 sq ft eatery is situated on the ground floor of The Regenda Group’s £21 million Plaza 1821 building in Princes Dock, where diners can sit back and enjoy the building’s iconic waterfront views.

Moose Coffee is open to the general public and to residents living in the building’s contemporary, furnished one and two bedroom apartments. The popular restaurant has existing locations in Crosby and Liverpool city centre, as well as in Leeds and Manchester.

Nick Van Breemen, director at Moose Coffee, says: “We are really excited to be part of the Plaza 1821 development at Liverpool Waters. It is a fantastic location, the restaurant is looking great and we can’t wait to get to know our new neighbours and customers.”

Fiona Coventry, executive director of property at Redwing, adds: “We’re delighted for our residents at Plaza 1821 to live alongside a fantastic independent local business such as Moose Coffee.

“We are also thrilled to have Moose Coffee on board in supporting our commitment to regenerating the dockside community and

provide opportunities for young people across the North West.”

Moose Coffee’s partnership with the Regenda Group will also see a new training programme provided by The Learning Foundry, a subsidiary of The Regenda Group, offering education and employment opportunities to local young people.

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HOME

DEVELOPMENT

in focus

Exciting new waterside neighbourhood on the Mersey’s ‘Left Bank’

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LOCATED AT THE HEART of the multibillion pound Wirral Waters regeneration project, East Float will be a collection of around 350 modern homes – created in joint venture partnership between House by Urban Splash and Peel L&P. A recent Rightmove survey saw the Wirral secure its place as the number one happiest place to live in the North West. The development of the old Birkenhead docks will only continue to help the area prosper going forward. It will be transformed into a forward-looking urban village built around people and community, with pedestrianised streets, landscaped communal gardens and stunning views over the River Mersey.

Prospective customers are now invited to visit the sales pavilion, an iconic structure in itself, allowing potential purchasers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the area, the homes and the future neighbourhood they could be a part of.

Every new home has been designed by Liverpool based architects shedkm. They will then be created in the House by Urban Splash factory before being delivered to East Float over the summer. Among them are the three-storey Town House homes, priced from £345,000, and the Row House – a new property type coming first to Merseyside starting at just £210,000.

The Town House homes offer open plan options, up to five bedrooms and home offices; there is also a garden living option – a traditional layout with living spaces downstairs – or loft living – with bedrooms on the ground floor and open plan living areas upstairs.

Meanwhile, the brightly coloured Row House homes are a tribute to the Victorian mews and will be available in three sizes; the two-storey option, a two-and-a-half-storey version which offers residents a roof terrace, and the largest three-storey home.

Guy Ackernley, residential director at Urban Splash, says: “After lots of hard work we are now able to welcome customers to East Float for the first time.

“This is the most exciting new neighbourhood in Merseyside, if not the North West, and we look forward to sharing our vision – and Peel L&P’s broader vision for Wirral Waters – with the early adopters of this fantastic new place.

“We’re also immensely proud to be launching our first ever Row House homes in Merseyside; Urban Splash was established in Liverpool and this is another nod to our company’s relationship with the area.

“With Row House, Town House and yet to be released phases, we are creating homes that are designed for modern living, as well as Peel L&P’s efforts across the wider site to create arts venues, shops and cafes that will really anchor life here.” www.housebyurbansplash.co.uk YM Liverpool

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Multipack necklaces

Puffer cross over footbed sandals

£12, South Beach @ ASOS

£17, Pretty Little Thing

Shell shirt blouse £48.99, Never Fully Dressed @ Zalando

Straw summer hat £8, Pretty Little Thing

Square frame tortoiseshell sunglasses £6, Matalan

staycation style Perfect your holiday wardrobe for a UK break with Annie S’ latest picks

Wide trousers £24.99, H&M

Quilted footbed chunky mule sandals £17, Pretty Little Thing

Midi dress with panels £29.99, Zara

Crochet tote bag £39.99, Seafolly @ Zalando

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Vest top £9.99, H&M

Knitted shorts £9.99, H&M

FASHION

Blossom shortsleeve lindos dress £89.99, Never Fully Dresssed Tall @ Zalando

Buckle slider £22.09, South Beach @ Zalando

Cocktail dress £48.99, NA-KD @ Zalando

Sports bag £64.99, Sweaty Betty @ Zalando

Copenhagen reserve jumper £55.99, Never Fully Dresssed @ Zalando

Crocheted dress £39.99, H&M

Crinkle stripe shortsleeve shirt playsuit £24, Pretty Little Thing

Copenhagen reserve tracksuit bottoms £32, Never Fully Dresssed @ Zalando

Sunglasses £87.99, Ray-Ban @ Zalando

Rushed short leggings £17.99, South Beach @ Zalando

Animal print flat sandals £19.99, Zara

YM Liverpool

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Luxury apartment scheme bucking post-lockdown trend Poet’s Place is experiencing a surge in lettings despite supposed demand from buyers for a suburban lifestyle

“WE THOUGHT WE’D BE A TRAILBLAZER for other reasons,” admits Lee Darwen of developer Caro. “But we’re happy to lead the charge back to normality if that is what the market wants.”

Lee is referring to the stellar lettings performance at Poet’s Place on Great Homer Street, Caro’s latest luxury furnished apartment scheme.

Launched to the market in the midst of lockdown, he admits to initially being worried about how lettings would perform.

“All the talk was of people staying away from city centres and their places of work. There was supposed to be a drift to the suburbs. Our experience at Poet’s Place is quite the opposite – people tell us they want to be back in their offices with colleagues and want to be close to the buzz of town.”

More than half of the 127 luxury studio, one- and two-bed fullyfurnished apartments are now under offer, and Lee says his team remains “extremely busy” dealing with new enquiries.

So why the success?

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“I think it’s the combination of style, value, location and convenience,” he adds. “People can move right in with just their suitcase and they’ve got a ready-made home furnished and fitted out to show-home standards, all for as little as £450 a month. That’s exceptional value.”

Lee thinks the location of Poet’s Place next to a hundred acre park but just two minutes’ drive from the Pier Head means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – suburban infrastructure but with city centre convenience.

“One resident told us they felt ‘the stars had aligned’ in that regard, because they hadn’t thought you could combine two such contrasting benefits in one package. It’s a nice way of looking at it.”

Having a vibrant neighbourhood retail centre on the doorstep helps, too. In addition to the famous Greatie market 300 yards up the road, there’s a brand new Sainsbury’s superstore plus a host of other well-known high street chains. Lee thinks the scheme’s car parking just adds to the convenience as well.

NEWS

The combination of style, value, location and convenience – people can move right in with just their suitcase and they’ve got a furnished readymade home.

The 27 secure underground car parking spaces are being let on a first come, first served basis, and the building has key-fob access and monitored CCTV for added security.

Each apartment in the brick-built seven-storey block boasts a Juliet balcony so residents can fling open their windows to enjoy their views, which include the Royal Liver Building at the front and the greenery of Everton Park to the rear.

The studios and apartments are available on 12 month tenancies. For more information and to arrange a viewing, visit www.carolettings.com or call 0800 008 7888 YM Liverpool

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ADVERTORIAL

Iliad officially opens ‘special development’ in city centre The award-winning property firm has launched its new residential scheme, The Eight

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ositioned between the Ropewalks and the Baltic Triangle, the development includes 120 one, two and three-bedroom apartments with private balconies. It also comes with on-site parking, concierge service and 24-hour security.

The scheme recently welcomed its first residents and was opened by Liverpool’s Lord Mayor Councillor Mary Rasmussen.

Iliad has delivered multiple commercial and residential developments across the region over the last 25 years. This latest project adds to its portfolio and the growing Iliad Homes brand.

The company has set out to create a “thriving community” with The Eight, and the scheme is said to be proving a popular choice for professionals, young families and mature students.

Lord Mayor Councillor Mary Rasmussen officially opened The Eight development

James Chan, general manager at Iliad Homes, says: “We are incredibly excited to officially open The Eight.

“A great deal of work has gone into delivering these quality and contemporary homes, which have been built in by Legacie Construction.

“This is a special development with a

real sense of community and further adds to the regeneration of the Ropewalks area which Iliad has been part of for over two decades.

“We are proud of The Eight development.

It is a major success story for Iliad Homes as we look to expand our residential brand even further in the future.”

Nexus and Legacie praised for eco-friendly apartment vision City leaders have lauded plans to create the city’s first flagship eco-friendly residential development Element The Quarter will be an eco-friendly residential development

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exus Residential is partnering with Legacie Developments to create Element The Quarter – a green apartment scheme comprising 450 units on the edge of the city centre.

The eco-development will feature low-carbon smart technologies including energy-efficient LED lighting, shower save system, mechanical ventilation heat recovery and solar panels. There will also be a rainwater recycling system, air-sourced heat pump and a Central Building Management Server. The companies involved have also committed to planting a number of trees in the Amazon rainforest for every apartment sold.

Work is underway on the development and Nexus and Legacie say it will become the greenest and most eco-friendly place to live in Liverpool.

John Morley from Legacie Developments says: “We are proud to be investing in Liverpool’s greenest residential development, which is not only good for the environment, but will also add to regeneration efforts in a key part of the city by creating quality new homes.”

Flexible rents that won’t leave a dent

Poet’s Place offers all the benefits of city centre living with none of the hassle – and monthly rental packages that are kind on your wallet.

With fully furnished studios, one- and two-bed apartments from as little as £450 per month call today to arrange a viewing or reserve your beautiful new home. They’re going fast!

Call 0800 008 7888 or email enquiries@carolettings.com Scan to view the apartments On-site parking / Parkland and waterfront views / Great local infrastructure / City Centre North location YM Liverpool

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Tollgate Close, L25 • • • • • • • •

£599,950

Stunning Five Bedroom Detached House Highly Sought After Location Large Open Plan Kitchen/Diner Spacious Master With Walk-In Wardrobe/En Suite Utility Room & Downstairs WC Private Landscaped Rear Garden Fantastic School Catchment Area Freehold Property Built In 2016

Old Hall Street, L3 £170,000 • • • • • • • •

Endbutt Lane, L23 £350,000 • • • • • • • •

Four Bedrooms Driveway Entrance Hall Cloak Room Two Living Rooms Family Bathroom Kitchen/Breakfast Room Front & Rear Gardens

Ground Floor Apartment Stunning Grade II Listed Building Located In the Heart Of The Business District 24 Hour Concierge Service No Ongoing Chain Close To Liverpool Waterfront Excellent Transport Links Modern Fitted Kitchen

Bramhall Road, L22 £110,000 • • • • • • • •

Spacious One Bedroom Apartment Private Parking Modern Fitted Kitchen Much Sought After Location Close To Local Amenities Excellent Transport Links Open Plan Living/Dining Room Large Bedroom

Unit 2, 10-14 Jamaica St, L1 0AF; 0151 705 7555 adamsuttonestates.com @adamsuttonestates

FOOD

Restaurant review

By Mia Duthil-Mcarthur |

Greek |

Nestled between Subway and Mamos on Bold Street, Laros is an authentic Greek street food restaurant. Opened following the easing of restrictions back in April, this quaint yet character-filled eatery offers a quick bite to eat in or to take away.

Inside, a bold blue colour scheme and rustic wooden tables gives off a decidedly beach bar feel.

Portion sizes were generous, but we left enough room to share Laros’s modern twist on Loukoumades.

Upon arrival, my sister Marine and I were met by the manager, Nicholas, who spent the entire evening looking after us very attentively.

An extensive range of Greek beers and soft drinks were on offer. Marine’s choice of Alfa (£4.20), recommended by Nicholas, and my choice of Mythos (£3.90), both offered a light and refreshing taste, perfect alongside the grub which was to come.

For mains there was a selection of authentic Greek dishes, including the holiday classic

Laros £ |

41 Bold St, L1 4EU

Gyros, Souvlaki, sliced meat marinated in herbs, and skewers of grilled meat/veg – all served with classic fries or sweet potato.

I plumped for a Pork Laros Gyros Wrap with sweet potato fries (£7.90) and Marine, being vegetarian, chose the Talagani Cheese Fries Pita Wrap (£6.40).

In the absence of any starters on the menu, we opted for some sides. Following an in-depth chat with Nicholas, we decided to split a Greek salad (£6.50) and a portion of Talagani cheese fries (£5.50): “the real Greek version of halloumi”.

Marine was full of praise for her main and sides, calling them “filling yet refreshing”, whilst noting the crisp salad offered a nice balance between sweet and salty.

Overall, portion sizes were generous, but thankfully we were left with enough room to share Laros’s modern twist on Loukoumades – traditional Greek fluffy dough balls.

We opted for the white chocolate variety (£4.80), these mouth-watering mini creations are definitely highly recommended. You can also try the alternatives which include lavender and honey syrup, or milk chocolate.

With almost all the ingredients imported from Greece or locally sourced, it’s not surprising the meat was so succulent and tender, the sides so flavourful leaving us

wanting more, and the desserts so indulgent.

As the website proudly states, this may just be ‘The New Home of Greek Street Food in Liverpool’.

VIEW FOOD PHOTOS @YM_LIVERPOOL

YM Liverpool

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Missing

the Med?

Heather Marsh shows us how easy it is to bring a little bit of the Mediterranean to our own gardens

EVEN WITH LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS BEING LIFTED and things getting back to so-called normal, few of us will be holidaying abroad this summer. But don’t fret if like me you’re one of those sorely missing the blue skies of the Med, and yearn for somewhere to escape from it all. I have a solution, and it’s a lot cheaper than any budget flight to the Balearics. It will give you hours of pleasure and relaxation – all without having to pack even a toothbrush or remember your passport.

Creating your very own Mediterranean-style garden which transports you to that little courtyard taverna or vineyard on a Tuscan hillside is a lot easier than you might think.

Getting the look Finding a sunny sheltered spot to site your new retreat is the first thing to do. It can be anywhere from a small balcony to a neglected corner – somewhere that catches the sun, or indeed you can watch the sunset from – essentially a sheltered spot you can transform.

There are several key elements to your new garden design and taking inspiration from all those sun-soaked countries of the Med will

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get the creative juices flowing. The dramatic look we’re aiming for is all about stage setting, which means we first have to gather the props.

Pots and containers, garden furniture and of course plants, trees and shrubs are all on the shopping list. Even though it’s not all about the plants, I am going to begin with them as the planting scheme is fundamental and key to achieving the look.

Signature plants You’ll be familiar with most of the plants and shrubs I’ve selected as they are favourites in many gardens. Not all are considered tropical plants, but they do originate in hot climates and are therefore drought tolerant, which in turn means low maintenance. One of the banes of my life when we do have a heatwave is frantically running around my garden each evening watering plants. You stand a slim chance of reviving an outdoor plant you’ve over watered, but rarely will you recover one that has dried out. With hot summers on the increase, plants which can look after themselves and cope without water are worth their weight in gold.

GARDENING

Lavender The number one statement plant and a true native of the Mediterranean. With its heady perfume, this evergreen shrub makes few demands other than a sunny location and the odd bit of rain.

Despite its Mediterranean ‘roots’, lavender is equally considered quintessentially English, not seen to be out of place in any country cottage garden.

English Lavender, also known as Common or True Lavender, is probably the most popular and widely grown variety, ideal as a hedge or border. However, it can grow quite tall and leggy, meaning it will need annual pruning to keep it under control. English Lavender can live for about 10 to 15 years, with French types only lasting about five.

I have 15-year-old plants in my garden and apart from looking a bit

gnarled and wizened, they still flower all summer long. If, like me, you love to watch bees going about their business you will know that they are drawn to lavender like a magnet. Make sure you strategically place some seating near the plant so you can sit and watch these incredible creatures at close quarters – a fascinating pastime to while away the hours in your new haven.

Some like it HOT! Agapanthus, also known as African Lily, is a flower I love and they are seen all over the Med – definitely preferring sunny climates. Well suited to growing in pots or containers, young plants prefer their roots restricted to establish themselves. Drought resistant agapanthus flourishes in full sun, and blooms in shades from deep mauve to pale blue and pure white.

Cistus is another plant of the Mediterranean. Mine thrives and never fails to flower where little else grows (under a large conifer).

I couldn’t ignore Hibiscus either, another flowering beauty of the Med which you can grow here with a little extra care. Although considered ‘tender’ if grown in a pot, you can move it indoors or out depending on the weather.

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GARDENING

Few gardens in hot countries bother with the tedious task of cultivating a lawn, so dispensing with one is another labour saving bonus of this design. Hard landscaping in the form of colourful tiles, gravel or stones are all perfectly sound options. Stone in all its forms looks great whatever the weather, with rain often bringing out beautiful colour permutations.

Tree and easy The right specimen tree in your new garden can add real drama and atmosphere. Fig trees and olive trees are more at home in the Med but do well here in the UK. They are quite hardy, especially if grown in a sheltered spot, and need little attention once established. Fig trees actually like their roots confined, especially when young, and have such beautifully shaped leaves – it’s a handsome plant even without the fruit. But you can’t beat picking ripe juicy figs from your own tree to capture the essence of the sun-soaked Med. Eucalyptus gunnii grown as a standard to keep it small is another native tree of the Med. An evergreen with silver-grey penny shaped leaves, eucalyptus omits a refreshing menthol aroma and also repels mosquitoes.

However the ultimate signature Mediterranean tree for me has to be the lemon.

Pots and containers make it easier to grow plants which prefer hotter climes. Terracotta pots are synonymous with Mediterranean windowsills and courtyards where pillar box red Pelargoniums (Geraniums) are planted up and displayed on mass. These plants are popular in the UK too. Cheap and cheerful, this look is easy to achieve with pelargoniums asking for little in the way of watering. Nasturtiums also like poor soil and are a garish flowering companion needing little attention in return for a dazzling summer show.

Aromatic and fragrant herbs Terracotta pots like rosemary and thyme are grown all over the Med for their are synonymous culinary uses and thrive in pots or gravel without much with Mediterranean attention. Basil, usually a windowsill herb in the winter, is windowsills and quite happy outside during the courtyards. summer months.

Citrus limo I guarantee this elegant specimen will transport you to the sun-soaked terraces of Capri. This tiny Italian island was where I first saw them growing in glorious abundance, the air filled with the sound of humming bees and the scent of this sweet fruit. Bellissimo!

Lemon trees are surprisingly easy to grow here in the UK and benefit from being outside during the summer months. Planted out or in large terracotta pots, they are tolerant of poor sandy soil and are drought tolerant – only needing enough water to make the soil just moist.

Positioned in full sun, lemon trees are pure eye candy and will be the talking point of your new garden.

Finishing touches The pergola is something of a Mediterranean trademark and can be just the clincher your new garden needs. Growing a grape vine, honeysuckle or even some tomatoes over it will only add to the aesthetic.

A hammock is another accessory which would certainly set the scene, and enhance the laid-back vibe.

Take it easy and enjoy your new garden as if you really were in the Med.

UNTIL NEXT TIME, HAPPY GARDENING | HEATHERMARSHYM@GMAIL.COM

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Modern waterside homes now on sale at East Float A new neighbourhood in the making on the left bank of the River Mersey.

Here’s what to expect: – Two, three, four and five bedroom homes available – Bright and spacious with picture windows and high ceilings – Waterfront views, pedestrianised streets and landscaped communal areas – Great transport links to Liverpool and surrounding areas – Close to the natural beauty of the Wirral beaches and country parks – Homes from £210,000

Sales Pavilion now open Book an appointment today: Call Megan on 0151 832 7700 or email eastfloat@housebyurbansplash.co.uk

Scan the QR code to find out more. housebyurbansplash.co.uk/east-float

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FOOD

RECIPE of the month Seabass with tomato and butter bean ragout

PREPARATION TIME: 10 minutes COOKING TIME: 25 minutes Serves 2 INGREDIENTS • 1 aubergine, trimmed and cut into 1cm-thick rounds • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 echalion shallot, finely diced • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and halved • 2 tsp nonpareille capers, drained • 2 tsp sherry vinegar • 200g Waitrose & Partners Cherry Vine Tomatoes, quartered • 400g can butter beans, rinsed and drained • 2 sea bass fillets • 2 tbsp finely chopped flat leaf parsley

COOK’S TIP Any canned white beans will work well in the ragout. Try cannellini or flageolet instead of butter beans.

METHOD 1P reheat the oven to 220ºC, gas mark 7. Brush the aubergine rounds all over with ½ tbsp oil. Spread out over a baking tray lined with parchment; roast for 20 minutes, turning halfway.

2M eanwhile, put all except 1 tsp of the remaining oil in a small saucepan with the shallot, garlic and capers. Set over a medium heat and, when you see a few bubbles rising up, turn down the heat to medium-low and cook gently for 15 minutes. Add the vinegar,

tomatoes and beans; cook gently for a further 5 minutes. Season and set aside off the heat while you cook the fish.

3H eat the remaining 1 tsp oil in a medium frying pan over a medium-high heat. Pat the fish dry on kitchen paper and season.

Fry, skin-side down, for 3 minutes until golden, then turn and cook for another 30 seconds. Take off the heat and leave in the pan for a final minute, ensuring the fish is fully cooked and opaque. Stir the parsley into the tomatoes and beans; pile onto plates with the aubergine and fish on top.

THOUSANDS OF RECIPES CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.WAITROSE.COM/RECIPES

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ADVERTORIAL

Pension scams becoming more sophisticated and widespread Criminals have targeted more than £2 million in pension wealth since March

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aunching the latest phase of its ScamSmart Campaign, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) warns pension savers to ‘flip the context’ and protect their savings and avoid scams.

This approach is designed to help us safeguard our pension pots when approached by offers.

The FCA suggests we imagine the same offer being made in person, in an everyday, real-world setting, such as a trip to the supermarket or visiting the pub.

Its research found that people are five times more likely to be interested in a free pension review offered online compared to one provided in their local pub, despite the tell-tale signs of a scam in both scenarios.

Read our recent blog to see who scammers are targeting.

Our decision making is affected by our environment. Scammers take advantage of this psychological trait.

So, before falling for a pension scam, take a moment to imagine the same proposition coming from a stranger in the pub while you are enjoying a quiet pint.

Regardless of their context, free pension reviews, time-limited offers, or help to release cash from a pension pot are all signs of a scam. By ‘flipping the context’ and placing these scams signs in a more familiar, everyday offline setting, they become easier to spot and avoid.

The FCA’s research found that despite 68% of pension holders believing they are confident in their ability to spot a scam, this confidence could be misplaced.

In practice, only 28% of pension holders realised that the offer of a free pension review was a sign of a scam. Only 40% knew to be wary about opportunities to transfer a pension.

Overconfidence is a risk factor that can result in pension holders letting their guard down and failing to carry out some simple due diligence steps, including checking the FCA Warning List.

A total of £2,241,774 has been lost to

matter how much they have saved.

“Check the status of a firm before making a financial decision about your pension by visiting the FCA register. Make sure you only get advice from a firm authorised by the FCA to provide advice, before making any changes to your pension arrangements.”

Scammers target pension pots big and small, with reported losses ranging from under £1,000 to as much as £500,000.

Mark Steward, executive director of enforcement and market oversight, FCA, said: “Imagine a stranger in a pub offering free pension advice and then telling you to put those savings into something they were selling. It is difficult imagining anyone saying yes to that.

“It’s no different online. Whether you’re on social media or checking your emails, if someone offers you free pension advice, ‘flip the context’ and imagine them doing the same thing in real life. Stop and think how you would react.

“Fraudsters will seek out every opportunity to exploit innocent people, no

Dr Linda Papadopoulos, a psychologist who is supporting the ScamSmart campaign, adds: “Scammers will use behavioural tactics to trick you into a false sense of security.

Often these criminals will manipulate and persuade you to do things in the moment, which ordinarily you would feel suspicious of in a more familiar setting, such as a shop or local pub.

“It is important when approached with a financial offer on your pension, to take yourself out of the context or pressure of that moment. We know that people wouldn’t accept a free financial product in a pub or would be unlikely to make a purchase in a random flash sale – so why risk it with your pension?”

SPECTRUM INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES B1 Business Centre, 25 Goodlass Road, Liverpool L24 9HJ 0151 448 2777 / mail@spectrum-ifs.co.uk / spectrum-ifs.co.uk 26

YM Liverpool

Wayne Slater, Principal Adviser, Spectrum Independent Financial Services

pension scammers since the start of 2021 and the end of May. Some victims of pensions scams are reluctant to report that they have been scammed or do not realise they have been scammed until years later, so the total amount lost may be much higher.

The average loss this year was £50,949, according to complaints filed with Action Fraud. That average loss figure is more than double the amount reported last year, which averaged £23,689.

WINE

Rosé wines for

summer sippin’ With temperatures riding high, Jon Atkinson from leading Liverpool wine merchants WineTime introduces some delicious rosés to be enjoyed well-chilled and al fresco

IT WASN’T THAT LONG AGO that many UK imbibers looked down their noses at rosé, but they have long been popular around Europe, particularly in Mediterranean countries. However, rosé has been on something of a roll here over the last several years. It always surprises me that quite a few people I encounter are reluctant to try a rosé because of a perception that most of them are quite sweet, when in truth the majority are dry to varying degrees.

So, how is a rosé wine made? There are three different methods that can be employed; the simplest is quite literally adding a little red wine to some white!

This technique is rather frowned upon in Europe, indeed it is not permitted in many regions, although ironically some of the most expensive rosé, namely Champagne, can be made this way. The Saignée method involves racking off some of the juice when making red wine to be made into rosé after a short maceration and then with the remainder being made into red. Finally, the most widely used method is direct pressing, in which black grapes are gently crushed with the juice remaining in contact with the skins until the desired colour is achieved.

If dry is your thing, then Provence in southern France is a great place to start, and this region is currently enjoying a real surge in popularity. This is partially down to the success of Ch.d’Esclans extremely ‘Insta’ friendly Whispering Angel, but there are plenty of alternatives out there, some better, and plenty which are less expensive! These wines are invariably blended from a combination of grape varieties with Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault and Syrah holding sway. There is also a commonly held belief that the paler the wine, the better the quality, and rosé from Provence is almost always very pale. However, depth of colour in a rosé is not an arbiter of quality – there are some outstanding rosés that are very deep in colour.

There is plenty of rosé made in other parts of France too; the Languedoc region is quite prolific, as is the Rhône Valley. Rosé Sancerre is made from Pinot Noir and enjoys its fair share of devotees.

In my humble opinion, some of the best rosé, or should I say rosado, is from Spain – Rioja produces some lovely dry but fruity wines usually from Tempranillo, often with a little Garnacha. Historically, Navarra was where most rosado was made but these wines don’t get imported to the UK as much as they used to. Nowadays, Catalunya is an increasingly excellent source with some wonderful dry wines.

AIX Vin de Provence 2020

Côté Mas Rosé ‘Aurore’ 2020

This Dutch-owned 75-hectare estate had the temerity to patent the name of the sub-zone of Provence in which they are based… didn’t really endear them to their neighbours!

Their wine however is excellent – a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault that is bone-dry, elegant and typically pale.

Well-balanced and refreshing as a freshly cut watermelon! £15.95

Conceived as a range of up-market ‘house’ wines for Jean-Claude Mas to serve to guests at his own, on-site bistro at their Pézenas HQ. They were so good that they went on general release and this is now one of our most popular rosés. Also a blend of Grenache, Cinsault & Syrah, this is dry but more fruity than a Provençal rosé with aromas of ripe cherry and red berries. £8.95

Eguren Ugarte Rioja Rosado 2020

Luxus ONE Catalunya Rosado 2020

This medium-sized, familyowned and run bodega just outside Laguardia in the Rioja Alavesa produces a diverse range including this delicious rosado. It is 100% Tempranillo & by Spanish standards really rather pale! It was cold fermented to retain the delightful wild strawberry and red berry aromas with the palate dry but fruit-driven. £9.50

This is a new listing from Bodegas Reserva de la Tierra that has really hit the ground running! 100% Garnacha (Grenache) from Catalunya, this is again quite pale by Spanish standards as well as being crisp, dry and elegant. Light and refreshing with aromas of red fruit with an underlying tropical edge, this is a perfect summer sipper. £9.50

TO CLICK & COLLECT ANY OF THESE RECOMMENDATIONS OR TO VIEW THE REST OF OUR RANGE PLEASE VISIT WWW.WINETIMEWINES.CO.UK

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how to get a

cool night’s

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HOME

sleep SUMMER NIGHTS often mean suffering from hours spent tossing and turning, as we find it too unbearably hot to sleep. And this can affect all of us, whether you’re already a hot or cold sleeper, or you suffer from allergies that may be exacerbated by the heat. But don’t despair – we asked Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council to share her top tips on keeping cool and comfortable. “Ideally bedrooms should be around 16-18°C,” says Lisa. “But if at night-time the outside temperature remains higher, or your bedroom has retained the heat from the day, then it can be difficult to stay cool, making it hard to sleep.”

For a chilled pillowcase, put it in a plastic bag and pop it in the fridge before bedtime. You can also do the same with socks, which will help to lower your core body temperature.

Lisa Artis, The Sleep Council

When temperatures soar, getting to sleep can be a nightmare – but a few expert changes might help you cool down and drop off

SUMMERPROOF YOUR BED LINEN “Rethink your duvets and blankets,” says Lisa. Summer bed linen in natural materials will help your body to stay cool – think cotton or linen, or try temperature balancing bedding, which is designed to help regulate your temperature. Your summer duvet should be a low tog rating (2-5-4.5 tog) – and again look for breathable options. On very hot nights, ditch the duvet and lie under a flat sheet instead.

If you’re still suffering, Lisa recommends a chilled pillowcase: “Just put it in a plastic bag and pop it in the fridge before bedtime.

You can also do the same with socks, which will help to lower your core body temperature.”

A change in what you wear to bed might help too. “Try light cotton nightwear,” advises Lisa. “It’s actually better than wearing nothing at all, as the natural fabric will absorb perspiration. If you have long hair, tie it back. Hair around your neck can make you feel warmer, like a scarf does.”

Snuggling up to another hot person should be the last thing on your mind during a heatwave. “If you share a bed, then make sure it’s big enough for two people, so you can sleep without disturbing each other,” says Lisa. “Ideally, it should be a minimum of 5ft wide.”

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HOME

COOL DOWN AS MUCH AS YOU CAN If the sun streams through your window in the afternoon and evening, close your curtains and blinds before leaving the house for work.

“Open windows – and doors – to create a draught,’’ says Lisa. “If this isn’t an option due to noise, hayfever or safety, then try to keep windows open in the day to aerate the room. If you’ve got an attic, try opening the hatch. Hot air rises and this will give it somewhere to go.”

Invest in a fan to help move the air around your body – the latest versions offer remote control, increased airflow speeds and sleep timers for ease of use throughout the night. “A fan is the remedy for 20% of people during hot summers,” says Lisa. “If it’s really hot, put a tray of ice and a little water in front of the fan, which will cool the air even more.”

THINK ABOUT YOUR SUMMERTIME ROUTINE School might be out, which often means a more leisurely attitude towards bedtime, but it helps to stick to your usual time when you can. “And try to aim for a gradual transition back to those earlymorning starts before school,” advises Lisa. If it’s still light outside, try

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If it’s still light outside, try using an eye mask to let your brain know you are ready for sleep or a journal to help you relax. using an eye mask to let your brain know you are ready for sleep or a journal to help you relax.

Summer can also mean later evening meals and more alcohol, but try to avoid drinking for three to four hours before bed, and try not to go to bed on a full stomach. “Alcohol can make you feel hot in the middle of the night through dehydration,” says Lisa, who advises having your last cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon too.

REMEMBER YOUR H2O Drink regularly throughout the day, but avoid too much just before bed as getting up for the loo in the middle of the night will disturb your sleep. Take a water bottle with you to bed should you wake up needing a drink, choosing one that will keep water cool. “Your body will feel cooler if you are hydrated,” says Lisa.

“Have a cool shower or bath before bedtime to lower your body temperature,” Lisa continues. “Your body temperature needs to drop slightly before you go to sleep, which is why you can’t sleep when you’re too hot.” Spritzing your face with water will help cool you down, while Lisa also suggests filling a hot water bottle with cold water and putting it in your bed.

BROUGHT TO YOU IN ASSOCIATION WITH JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS WWW.JOHNLEWIS.COM

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YM Liverpool

ADVERTORIAL

Gok Wan joined by TV stars at launch of £1.4m Sedulo offices Celebrities descend on city to celebrate opening of finance company’s new Exchange Flags base

Coronation Street actress Sally Lindsay, Gok Wan and Real Housewives of Cheshire star Seema Malhotra

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nternationally renowned DJ Gok Wan treated guests at the exclusive event to a music set while they mingled with Coronation Street star Sally Lindsay and her husband Steve White, a musician who has worked extensively with Paul Weller and The Style Council.

Seema Malhotra from The Real Housewives of Cheshire was also in attendance for the star-studded evening and arrived at the new offices in Exchange Flags alongside her husband Sandeep Malhotra – CEO of Forever Unique – and a host of the city’s top business leaders.

Former rugby league star Greg Inglis also joined the party at Sedulo, a company which provides a suite of support to a range of clients including advice on taxes, financial planning, accountancy, wealth management and funding.

Established in 2009, the finance specialist now counts itself amongst the top 100 accountancy firms in the United Kingdom and is the only business in that sector to have strong office bases in Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds and London.

Sedulo founder Paul Cheetham-Karcz and managing director Cathryn Wright with Gok Wan

Sedulo’s new Liverpool lease is costing more than £1m, while the company spent a further £400,000 transforming a 7,000 sq ft space in Exchange Flags.

Attendees at the event were able to view the new offices which feature a ‘Klopp/Kendall Suite’ complete with signed shirts from Sir Kenny Dalglish and Kevin Ratcliffe plus an indoor garden, table football machine, and seats in blue and red set against Goodison Park and Anfield – a homage to the city’s two major football clubs.

Guests were also shown the main boardroom which has been designed like a military bunker, complete with sandbags and 1940’s Wrens uniforms in order to pay respects to Walker House – where the office is located – as it once housed a bomb-proof bunker in the basement as part of a military command headquarters.

A McVitie’s/Crawfords suite has also been installed – with Crawfords having been a major Liverpool confectioner producing biscuits from the late 1800’s until it merged with McVitie’s in the 1970’s.

In honour of that, Sedulo serves afternoon tea each day in its Liverpool office with a stock of Crawfords biscuits for staff to enjoy.

A podcast studio, modelled on Oprah Winfrey’s set, has been put in place too, while an outdoor Victorian terrace garden overlooking the Royal Liver Building and River Mersey was where musicians, DJs and Gok Wan delivered their performances.

Paul Cheetham-Karcz, Sedulo founder, says: “We’re incredibly proud of our new offices in Liverpool and delighted that so many of our clients, business leaders and celebrities were able to join us for this spectacular launch event.

“We’ve got big ambitions for Liverpool and look forward to welcoming more people into our offices in the coming weeks and months.”

HOME

PROPERTY

in focus

Spacious family home at exclusive Wirral development From £684,995

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DESCRIBED AS A HOUSETYPE for truly aspirational living, The Buckingham at Castle Green’s Queensbury Manor development in Meols encompasses grand finishes with contemporary features, perfect for modern family life.

Living space is plentiful throughout with an open plan kitchen, dining room and family area boasting bi-folding doors that lead out onto a paved terrace.

A further separate lounge adds more spacious living to the ground floor, ideal for entertaining, or simply relaxing.

Upstairs, the master bedroom has access to a walk-in dressing room and en suite, whilst bedroom two also has access to its own en suite shower room. Three or four further bedrooms (depending on specific housetype) and a sleek family bathroom complete the first floor.

For more information, call 01352 872560 or email queensburymanor@ castlegreenhomes.uk YM Liverpool

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MAY 2021

FILM

VIDEODYSSEY’S

MOVIE OF THE MONTH

Jaws Andy Johnson dares to go into the water again as he revisits Spielberg’s eternal classic

“You’re gonna need a bigger boat...”

The cold pallid grey skin, the blood thirsty focus on where the next feed lies... The silent, shifty, sudden changes in direction. The cold black lifeless pools for eyes.

It is hard not to draw a likeness between Boris Johnson and the monster of this movie...

The town mayor, who can be heard crying: “We need summer dollars!

“We depend on the summer people here for our very lives. We don’t want a panic on our hands on the 4th of July.”

The Mayor of Amity, just like our jaded PM, has a laser-like focus on the business at hand. It’s easy to imagine Steven Spielberg stepping in to direct Boris making a similar speech in the face of an invisible menace on Brighton beach.

Spitting through splintered smiles: “Happy Freedom day! Come on in, the water’s lovely.

No danger here, No! “Take that mask off. Feel free to take those skimpies off too.

“Well, it’s all a matter of personal choice. Mine’s a large one! Onwards to victory!”

Spielberg was a tender 27-years-old when he made Jaws. At the time he thought it would kill his career – thanks mainly to the vastly expensive models that were made, but not tested in saltwater, where the animatronics simply wouldn’t work. Hell’s Teeth!

In their absence young Spielberg presents the viewer with a series of startling images of sea dwelling killing machines and their legends found in books by Chief Brody: “Nobody knows how old they actually are... they could be 2,000 or 3,000 years old!”

As an audience, we build an unbearable level of suspense... watching, nervously awaiting an appearance from ‘The Beast’. The result is a psychological masterstroke.

The first maneater we actually see is a toothless Tiger specimen strung up. A thirteen-footer which had to be flown up from Florida, when the crew couldn’t catch one that looked big enough to have swallowed a boy in the bay at Martha’s Vineyard. The giant model we eventually see in the movie was named Bruce after Spielberg’s lawyer Bruce Ramer.

When Jaws finally bursts onto the screen, we’ve already encountered so many larger than life characters, it’s impossible to fathom what will follow. The dynamic between Quint (Robert Shaw) and Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) is so captivating, it

allows Chief Brody (Roy Scheider) and his fear of the water to slip into the background.

Just as you wonder when Quint and Hooper will come to blows, they seem to form a drunken allegiance comparing scars.

Hooper then makes a poorly judged joke about a tattoo Quint has had removed and the humanity drains from his demeanour. The story of his survival after being on the USS Indianapolis, sunk by Japanese torpedoes, is a moment of pure horror.

He recounts that he was part of the crew which delivered the Hiroshima bomb, before capsizing and having to survive predator infested waters for days.

No distress signal was sent from their top secret vessel. Brody and Hooper now realise there is a monster on board, equally evil to the one below.

When Quint smashes the Orca’s radio to smithereens, the violence is understandable. He is akin with the rogue, now circling beneath his feet. Quint wanted to hunt alone. But just like the mayor, he subjugated his morals for money, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

With the trials and tribulations that went into producing this tall tale behind him, Spielberg used to sneak into the back of movie theatres in L.A. to enjoy hearing the collective screams from the audience. Not yet realising he had given birth to the modern blockbuster.

To say the movie is iconic is an understatement. Jaws is the movie poster you can hear. John Williams’ score is a flight of fantasy, which Wanna is good to listen to anytime. I submerge yourself like to play the theme song in Jaws on the big screen? when writing to drown out Our huge studio cinema is the impending doom of available to hire, alongside two deadlines. It really allows smaller screening rooms, which are you to get into a zone. ideal for private parties.

So what are you waiting for? Dive in and give Top rated on Airbnb experiences Jaws a spin. He won’t in Liverpool, VideOdyssey was bite. “Amity is French for also recently listed on Time friendship, you know.”

Out magazine’s must-visit Be kind, rewind!

Andy

bucket list for film fans.

Unique cinema experience up for grabs!

YM Liverpool and VideOdyssey Studios have teamed up to offer a unique cinema experience. To celebrate people getting together to watch films again, you can score a private party at the video shop and studio cinema. Winners will also enjoy a private tour of the new and improved VideOdyssey ahead of the re-opening in August.

PHIL CALLAND

To win a private screening party for you and up to 8 friends, tell us what was the name of the shark hunter Captain Quint’s boat in Jaws? Answers on a postcard or via email to: VideOdyssey, Toxteth TV, Windsor St, L8 1XE or Shop@ VideOdyssey.com. Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entries received by midnight on 18 August.

INSTAGRAM.COM/VIDEODYSSEY | FACEBOOK.COM/VIDEODYSSEYARCADE VIDEODYSSEY/TOXTETH TV, WINDSOR ST, L8 1XE

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YM LIVERPOOL CLASSIFIEDS • YM LIVERPOOL CLASSIFIEDS • YM LIVERPOOL CLASSIFIEDS • YM LIVERPOOL CLASSIFIEDS

VideOdyssey Studios Take a slice of the ‘UK’s last video shop’ home for the film fan in your life.

Mean Streets ’80s Casuals collab tee shirts, handmade baby Audrey II plants, tote bags and more.

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NEWS

WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT VOTED BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN LIVERPOOL The Keel at Queens Dock came top of property review websites’ rankings for apartment living REVIEWERS ON HOMEVIEWS gave the development an overall score of 4.54 stars out of 5, with its waterfront location receiving a 4.77.

Contributors were keen to report on the positives of living on a private dock, with one reviewer saying The Keel was situated in an “Absolutely beautiful area with a view of the river and the city”.

The Keel’s management team also received high praise on HomeViews, with one reviewer saying “The team who work at The Keel are lovely and are happy to help 24/7”.

Located on a private quay at Queens Dock, the former HMRC offices were converted into 240 waterside apartments in 2015.

Available exclusively to renters, The Keel offers its residents a calendar of regular social activities including online yoga classes, wine and cheese nights and virtual cook-a-longs.

An upcoming £300,000 redesign will add an exclusive residents’ lounge and a coworking space in an effort to cater to the rise in home working.

Joseph Cooper, general manager at The Keel, says: “We were delighted to discover that we took the top spot for apartment living in Liverpool on HomeViews. The management team and I take great pride in ensuring our residents’ experience is the best it can be.

“With amazing facilities such as our onsite gym and calendar of social events, The Keel offers a community for those who live here; however, it is often our amazing location that residents are first to shout up about.

“The management team and I love receiving resident feedback and can’t wait to see the residents’ reactions to the new renovations to the common areas.

“We are always looking for ways to improve and will keep a close eye on HomeViews to make sure we stay at that top position.”

For more information about The Keel or to arrange a viewing, visit www.thekeel-liverpool.co.uk YM Liverpool

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NEWS

OPEN WATER SWIMMING FACILITY LAUNCHES AT PRINCES DOCK Unique location for one of the most popular pastimes to come out of the pandemic WESWIMRUN, which organises open water swimming and running events across North Wales, is utilising Princes Dock to provide an urban swimming facility which can be used by local residents and visitors to Peel L&P’s Liverpool Waters.

The 500m course is clearly marked out so that swimmers can swim safely in laps around the dock, surrounded by the impressive backdrop of the world-famous Liverpool skyline and nearby cruise ships.

The water quality in Princes Dock, which is approximately 40% salt water and 60% fresh water, will be tested regularly and aerated pumps will help to keep the water moving.

As well as public swimming sessions, WeSwimRun will host a charity open water swimming event on Saturday 14 August, as

part of a UK wide fundraising initiative called Lakes For Level Water. The national event will take place at various open water swimming venues across the UK in aid of Level Water, a charity that teaches disabled children to swim.

Mike Alexander, founder and coach at WeSwimRun, says: “Open water swimming has increased in popularity over recent months as more people have sought a release from the tensions of the day. It is a wonderful pastime and is a fantastic way to keep a healthy mind and body.

“Our new facility at Princes Dock provides a really special location within an urban environment and is surrounded by spectacular views along the waterfront at Liverpool Waters.

“Our public swimming sessions will provide a safe place to learn how to swim outdoors and, for those looking for something more challenging, we will provide a range of events and races for people to get involved in.”

For more info visit www.weswimrun.org

PAUL CROWLEY & CO SOLICITORS STRENGTHENS CRIME DEPARTMENT TATE LIVERPOOL TO HOST TURNER PRIZE IN 2022 World-renowned award returning to the city for the first time in 15 years NEXT SUMMER THE GALLERY will also stage a major exhibition, Radical Landscapes, which will explore our individual and collective connection to the rural landscapes of Britain.

Opening in October 2022, the Turner Prize is Tate’s annual celebration of British artistic talent. It aims to promote public debate around new developments in contemporary British art.

Established in 1984, it is awarded to a British artist for an outstanding exhibition or other presentation of their work. Tate Liverpool was the first gallery outside London to host this prestigious prize in 2007.

An independent jury will announce a shortlist of artists in May 2022 and following the exhibition’s opening, a winner will be selected on the day of the awards ceremony in December.

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FOLLOWING ON FROM recent new hires, Paul Crowley & Co solicitors has bolstered its crime department with the appointment of solicitor, duty solicitor and higher court advocate, Eileen Chisnall.

Eileen, who holds a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice and is Chair of the Liverpool Law Society Criminal Practice Committee, brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to the company’s legal practice.

Paul Crowley, managing director, says: “We are pleased to welcome Eileen to our crime department to further grow and expand our team. The team has the right skills and experience to provide our clients with the best possible advice, expertise and service.

“Eileen has excellent credentials and is an expert in a variety of criminal legal matters. I am confident she will be a key addition to what is already a well respected team and help to take the business to the next level.”

Eileen has experience with a wide variety of serious cases including all types of fraud, robbery, money laundering, people trafficking, and acting for foreign and UK-based defendants.

Eileen adds: “I am looking forward to the new challenge at Paul Crowley & Co and working alongside the crime team to deliver expert advice and representation for our clients.”

TATE LIVERPOOL IMAGE: ROB BATTERSBY

Liverpool firm announces senior appointment to its legal team

PRESENTS

An Exciting New Development of 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes Meols Wirral

The Buckingham Show Home Now Open *by appointment only

@castlegreenhomes

www.castlegreenhomes.uk

0151 459 6999

St Asaph Business Park, LL17 0LJ

YM Liverpool

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240 STUNNING APARTMENTS OVERLOOKING THE RIVER MERSEY, THE LIFEBLOOD OF LIVERPOOL. Natural light and open space offer peace and quiet, but close proximity to the city centre means you’re never too far from fun and friends.

With a host of private amenities onsite and the city of Liverpool on your doorstep, The Keel sets a new standard for rental living and lets you live life, perfectly balanced.

STUDIO, ONE, TWO & THREE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS AVAILABLE TO RENT NOW Available furnished or unfurnished • Onsite parking • Pet friendly living spaces • Residents’ only gym

CALL 0151 475 2715 OR VISIT WWW.THEKEEL-LIVERPOOL.CO.UK

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YM Liverpool

WINNER OF FOUR 2021

AWARDS