YM Liverpool February 2024

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INSIDE

Jon Atkinson on wine New Anfield apartments Essential gym kit Super Wok review

Josie SedgwickDavies

Meet the scouse star of Netflix’s chart-topping Chicken Run sequel

Visit our show homes and discover exclusive living, naturally 3 and 4 bedroom homes in Burscough

Call 01704 468 510 to book an appointment

Visit us at Orrell Lane, Burscough L40 0SJ Mon-Fri 10am – 4.30pm , Sun-Sat 10am – 5pm We can make moving easy with Part Exchange and Easy Move

Visit prospecthomes.co.uk for more information

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February

ISSUE #522

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of YM Liverpool!

First up we bring you my chat with the breakout scouse star of Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.

A huge hit over Christmas, the sequel to Aardman Animations’ much-loved original saw many of the fanfavourite characters returning including Ginger, Rocky and Babs. But it was the addition of an energetic purple chicken named Frizzle which went down particularly well with Liverpool viewers.

I caught up with Josie Sedgwick-Davies to discuss her journey from working in a hairdressers to voicing ‘the world’s first scouse chicken’.

Sticking with local talent, Leah Collins recently spoke with Wirral-born scriptwriter Danny Kelly about his new ITVX comedy G’wed which has been described as an “uplifting and heart-warming portrayal of the lives of working-class teenagers from Liverpool”.

Elsewhere, we shine the spotlight on a selection of new luxury apartments in Anfield and the John Lewis team shares a selection of stylish sportswear and equipment you’ll actually use.

Meanwhile, our gardening guru Heather Marsh sings the praises of the humble Snowdrop and Annie S presents her Valentine’s Day inspired fashion picks.

Finally, Will Carr gives his verdict on the recently launched Super Wok restaurant and Jon Atkinson travels to Italy’s most prolific wine region for his latest selections.

Until next time!

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LAWRENCE SAUNDERS Editor

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NEWS | INTERIO RS | HO NEWS | INTERI FR ORS | HOME MIEOSN| |L G A R D E N I N G F ES H F ESSHT Y L | IFA E T Y L E | IFA E S | L I F E S T YSL E| L I O NE || G FA A SRH NEWS | INTERIORS | HOM DIEE ONNI N| GG A RDEN

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2024 FEBRUARY www.ymliverpool.co

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Editor Lawrence Saunders editor@ymliverpool.com Design Marten Sealby ADVERTISING Sales 0151 316 0210 sales@ymliverpool.com DISTRIBUTION Enquiries 0151 316 0210

Rick Stein

Top TV chef & restaurateur speaks ahead of Liverpool show

JANUARYwww.ymli verpool.co 2024 m DECEMBER 2023

INSIDE

INSIDE

INSIDE

Creating a sleep sanctuary Development in Focus Kate Jon Atkinson Humble YMinterview on wine Liverpool Property Jon Atkinson &on wine ss Busine Awards New Anfield Growing winter Festive herbswine apartments guide Essential gym kit Mamasan review Super Wok review

Josie Sedgwick T ies ZuDav tohe ns

To have the latest issue of YM Liverpool delivered through your door every month, contact sales@ymliverpool.com or call 0151 316 0210 to learn more about our subscription service. ymliverpool.com

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Meet the scouse star of Dave McCa Netflix’s chart-topping be speaks as Liver sequel Runpool Chicken announce band s first new album in 16 years

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YM Liverpool 3

Gonna fly now

A huge hit on Netflix over Christmas, Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget reunited us with our favourite fowls from Aardman Animations’ much-loved 2000 original.

The BAFTA-nominated sequel also introduced a new addition to the flock, one which has gone down particularly well here on Merseyside. We caught up with Josie Sedgwick-Davies to find out how she went from working in her local hairdressers to voicing ‘the world’s first scouse chicken’ words lawrence saunders

Whereabouts on Merseyside did you grow up?

I was brought up in Birkenhead but I’ve spent most of my life in Liverpool and now live in Toxteth, where my family are from. My house is actually on the same street where my mum and dad grew up!

How did you first get into acting? Was it something you’d wanted to do from a very young age?

I got into acting just after I left school. I struggled at school because I have ADHD and dyslexia. I left with no GCSEs and no idea what I wanted to do. I ended up getting a job in the hairdressers at the bottom of my mum’s road, and everyone always said to me, ‘You should be a performer. You’re funny!’ But because I’m dyslexic, I just thought about having to read scripts and how that wasn’t something which would be possible for me to do. Then one day I was sitting, hating my life, and I heard Ricky Tomlinson on the radio going on about this new drama school called the Liverpool Media Academy.

I typed the number into my phone as he read it out and said to the receptionist: ‘I want to go to this drama school! I want to become an actor!’. A week later I had an audition and got accepted. From then on, I auditioned for every single thing that I possibly could and performed in every play I could in Liverpool. It was amazing but I really wanted to go to drama school. Obviously drama school in London was never going to be a possibility because of the costs involved but when I was 25 I found out there was something similar in Wigan. They ran an MA course which was covered by student finance. It was an intensive year-long acting course which was amazing. The school has sadly since closed, which is a real shame because it gave working-class people like myself the opportunity to learn something that isn’t easily available to us.

How did you end up landing the role of Frizzle in Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget?

I’d been at this drama school in Wigan for a year when the pandemic hit. I was effectively stuck there due to the restrictions. By this point acting wasn’t something which was on my mind. I was looking for a job in a shop because I had no money. I got an email about the Chicken Run audition from my agent. As it was during the pandemic, the audition was done over Zoom. Anyway, I did it and thought nothing of it. But then

4 YM Liverpool

it was six months of recall auditions and I started to think, ‘God, I’m getting further and further into this…I might actually get this part!’. In the back of my mind though [the role] was still this unattainable thing because it was so cool. The day I got the phone call from my agent [telling me I’d got the part] was the maddest day – I remember every second of it from when she rang me. After I’d put the phone down, I called my mum to tell her and she thought I meant I’d got the job I was going for at Home and Bargains! I couldn’t get a word in edgeways and she went off to tell my dad. When I managed to explain that it was the other job, the Aardman job, she was in disbelief. All she could say was ‘bloody hell, bloody hell!’. I wouldn’t be doing any of this if it wasn’t for my mum and dad. They used to drive me to every audition, give me money for things I couldn’t afford like headshots and surviving in Wigan during my acting course.

What was the recording process like? Did you tape your lines separately or alongside the other actors?

It was all done down in London in the same studio where they record Peppa Pig. I remember getting so excited about that fact even though I’d never even watched it! When I recorded my first lines we were still in the middle of the pandemic so it was just me and the sound tech guy in this huge booth. Everybody else was on video screens facing me!

I think the added adrenaline of having all those eyes on me gave my performance some extra energy! I’d spend about four hours at a time inside the booth, recording line after line of dialogue. I didn’t get to meet any of the other actors until the press started for the film, and you can imagine how much my head fell off!

The film has certainly been a hit with viewers – becoming the most-watched film on Netflix UK in December and scoring a very impressive combined audience score of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes. How does it feel to know so many people are enjoying something you’re such a big part of?

It sounds ridiculous, but I never thought about what happens after a film is released and how it’s received. It was in the top 10 on Netflix for a whole month, which is actually amazing. I can’t tell you the number of voice notes I’ve sent as Frizzle to parents for their kids! I’ve just got a standard one I do now but I love it!

INTERVIEW

When you went back to your old school before Christmas to speak with the pupils, you shared your story about living with ADHD and dyslexia. How, if at all, have these conditions affected your career?

I think originally the dyslexia was a big negative in my head. I remember at drama school, during the voice week, saying to the woman who was teaching us, Emma Gregory, ‘What’s the point of me doing this? I can’t read. I’m never going to be a voice actor. This is pointless.’ Thankfully Emma was amazing and she sat me down and said, ‘You can do this’. But I still had this internal monologue telling me that I’d never be able to do it. Dyslexia presents itself in different ways for different people. A lot of the time, the words on a page jumble around and jump back and forth. If I was reading the same text that you had, the words would come out in the wrong order a lot of the time. Other times I will struggle to recognise certain words. I got the scripts for Chicken Run earlier than the other actors and they also provided me with yellow paper which helped. These are only small things but they make a massive difference. With the ADHD, that has never been a hindrance to me being an actor. I’ve always seen it as an absolute positive, especially with my casting type. If you look at Frizzle, she’s hyper and energetic which is what I’m like in real life. I believe 100 per cent that I wouldn’t be the actor that I am without ADHD. Is your positive outlook on living with ADHD one of the reasons why you became an ambassador for ADHD UK? Absolutely. I also feel like I’m privileged because I’m an actor with ADHD. I know quite a few people who have ADHD, who aren’t in the creative business, and they really struggle at times. I’ve been there.

I’ve been sacked from pretty much every ‘normal’ job I’ve had. I have friends with ADHD who struggle like that and I feel so privileged that I’m able to channel my condition into something which is amazing and something that I want to do.

I wanted to work with ADHD UK so I could put opportunities out there for people with ADHD to be creative and get involved with acting. We’ve organised workshops for people who have never done anything like this before and say to them, ‘That little bit of you that you think is a negative? Maybe you can make some magic with it.’

With the ADHD, that has never been a hindrance to me being an actor. I’ve always seen it as an absolute positive, especially with my casting type.

YM Liverpool 5

NEWS

Liverpool to host ‘spectacular’ naming ceremony for Cunard’s newest ship Event is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators this summer CUNARD’S SPIRITUAL HOME is to host the naming ceremony for its newest ship, Queen Anne.

The event will take place on Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront on Monday 3 June during an introductory ‘lap of honour’ voyage around the British Isles.

Queen Anne is expected to arrive on the River Mersey soon after sunrise on what promises to be the most eagerly awaited port of call on the exclusive 14-night voyage.

Plans are being made for her arrival to include a special salute to the city where Cunard’s pioneering transatlantic service – and passenger

shipping itself – was launched in 1840, and where the iconic Cunard Building forms the centrepiece of the Three Graces.

The 14-night British Isles Festival Voyage will depart Southampton on 24 May with maiden calls to Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Invergordon, Greenock, Belfast, and Liverpool where guests sailing on the voyage will have an exclusive opportunity to join the naming celebrations before a late evening departure bound for Cobh followed by her return to Southampton.

The formal naming will be the highlight of a day of celebration for Queen Anne, currently nearing completion in Italy.

The event in Liverpool is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators to vantage points alongside the river at Pier Head, between New Brighton and Seacombe on Wirral and on beaches at Formby and Crosby in Sefton.

Entries open for YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024 Industry representatives set to celebrate another year of success at prestigious event ENTRIES FOR THE YM LIVERPOOL Property & Business Awards 2024 are now officially open.

Leading lights from the Liverpool City Region’s property and business sectors will gather at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on 28 November 2024 to once again reflect on another 12 months of achievements.

Accolades will be handed out across a diverse range of categories including Property Developer of the Year, Best Affordable Housing Scheme, Residential Property Agency of the Year, Business Leader of the Year and LCR Business of the Year.

Last year’s awards saw people, projects and businesses from across the Liverpool City Region recognised during a glittering ceremony hosted by Liverpool-born star of

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stage and screen Claire Sweeney (pictured).

The black-tie event, supported by headline sponsor Knowsley Surfacing and category sponsors Everton Stadium, Together and The Momentum Group, featured a charity raffle in aid of Football For Change alongside the main presentation.

More than 300 guests enjoyed a pre-dinner drinks reception before a luxury three-course

meal followed by a live DJ set.

For a full list of categories and to submit your entry for the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024, head to www.ymliverpool.com For ticket information or to discuss sponsorship opportunities for this year’s event, contact awards@ymliverpool.com

We are Redwing We are YM Liverpool’s No.1 Property Agent 2023 We are highly recommended We are estate agents We are build to rent specialists We are shared ownership experts We are property managers We are great people to work with View more results...

WE ARE

0151 703 3703 | sales@redwing.co.uk www.redwing.co.uk | @weareredwing YM Liverpool 7

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YM Liverpool 9

Adidas Samba OG logo-print leather low-top trainers

Collared wool jumper

Selfridges £89.99

H&M £64.99

Love is in the flair

UGG W Scuffette Li

Knit top with faux pearls

Zara £49.99

Fall in love with Annie S’s Valentine’s Day inspired picks

Flower choker necklace

Very £90

Mango £15.99

Diamanté heart pointed toe heels Primark £29.99

Cable-knit cardigan

Stradivarius £29.99

10 YM Liverpool

FA S H I O N

Crystal heart bag

Mango £49.99

Bandeau top with flower detail Bershka £19.99

Bubble-hem tube top H&M £15.99

Satin bow Stradivarius £7.99

Shawl-detail jersey dress H&M £74.99

Satin shirt and shorts pyjama set

Primark £15

Bandeau neck mini dress with flower detail

Bershka £29.99

SKIMS Valentine’s Day slogan-intarsia cotton-blend socks

Selfridges £48

YM Liverpool 11

ADV ERTORIA L

Have you been mis-sold car finance?

Have you purchased a new or used car, van or commercial vehicle on finance prior to 2021? If the answer is yes, then you could be the victim of mis-sold car finance. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has discovered widespread evidence of mis-selling on all types of UK car finance agreements. If you have been misled by a dealer, broker or salesperson then you could be entitled to a claim for compensation

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is-selling occurs when the person buying the car has not been presented with all the necessary information to decide whether the contract represented value for money or was financially viable.

An example of how you could possibly have been misled was if the lender or the salesperson only discussed with you the deposit and monthly payments.

Alarming trends amongst car buyers of widespread car finance mis-selling

The Bank of England and the FCA have raised their concerns at the recordbreaking amount of money used to finance car sales in recent years, the FCA has been clear that car dealers and motor finance brokers have fallen short of the required regulatory standards and believe hidden commission has been paid on 95% of UK car finance agreements.

Can I claim for mis-sold car finance?

The answer is yes you can and Paul Crowley & Co solicitors are here to help you reclaim the money that is rightfully yours. If you used a credit facility to purchase a new or used vehicle before 2021, it is highly likely you have been misled and mis-sold vehicle finance. The agreements can still be in place or have ended and multiple claims can be made

within the time frame above for different cars, vans and trucks.

How do I know if I have been mis-sold car finance?

When purchasing a car on finance, the lender or the car dealership has an obligation to make the necessary financial background checks to ensure the purchaser can afford the loan. If this did not happen, then the buyer has been mis-sold car finance.

If either the salesperson or credit broker, prior to the buyer signing the car finance agreement fails to disclose any commission, fee or other remuneration, which could adversely affect the car buyer’s purchasing decision, then on the grounds of non-disclosure, an act of car finance mis-selling has been committed.

The law states the liability of proof is with the lender or the vehicle dealership to show they acted legally in all aspects of the process.

How do I know if I am eligible to make a claim?

You are eligible to claim if the salesperson: • Did not inform you they would receive a commission • Did not adequately explain the financial contract • Did not conduct adequate affordability checks or persuaded you to take out an unaffordable agreement

• Did not inform you of other finance options available • You were not given complete transparency of interest rate charges You cannot be in arrears of three months or more, have been made bankrupt or entered an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA).

What are the car finance options?

There are three finance options you could choose from, any of which were used to finance the mis-selling of a car, van or truck; Hire Purchase (HP), Personal Car Loan (PCL) or Personal Contract Purchase (PCP).

What evidence do I need to make a claim for mis-sold car finance?

Loan documents, financial agreements, bank statements, and any correspondence from the lender.

100% No Win, No Fee, compensation

At Paul Crowley & Co solicitors we offer NO WIN, NO FEE representation against mis-sold car finance claims. We are on your side, you will be speaking directly to an expert in this field, who will answer any questions you may have.

With nothing to lose and everything to gain, why wait?

Our claims experts are waiting to take your call.

If you would like to make a no-obligation appointment with one of our compensation claims experts, call 0151 264 7363. www.paulcrowley.co.uk 12 YM Liverpool

FOOD

Restaurant review

Super Wok

By Will Carr |

Chinese |

££ |

‘They have a robot!’ There are many reasons to visit Super Wok, I didn’t need another but when I heard my partner shouting, before showing me a photograph of a robotic cat serving meals, my shoes were already half-tied.

Liverpool has such a rich variety of Asian cuisine that I don’t go near Chinatown anymore. I find it physically impossible to walk through those distinctive arches without being led by my nose into one restaurant or another. So I was very pleased when I heard a new Chinese was opening a short bus ride away and couldn’t think of a better way to ring in the Year of the Dragon. I was disappointed however when I learnt I’d missed the dancing lions which had been arranged for Super Wok’s official launch.

The second I opened the door I was instantly charmed by the restaurant’s unpretentious, relaxed style. The walls were lined with adorable vibrant murals, hand-

I was instantly charmed by the restaurant’s unpretentious, relaxed style. The walls were lined with vibrant murals and fluorescent neon signs that oozed positivity.

12 Jennifer Ave, Great Homer St, L5 5AA

painted animals and fluorescent neon signs that oozed positivity.

To start we ordered the Sui Mai (£5.50) and the Chicken Sweetcorn Soup (£3.80) and before we knew it we were both cackling like excited children. ‘CatBot’ as we’d come to call it, was rolling down the aisle laden with food and a smile on its digital face. I’d elected to go for the salt and pepper Sui Mai and couldn’t have been more right to do so. Served on a bed of onions, the four dumplings were incredible with the crispy coating hiding flavourful tender pork.

The soup was thin, simple, almost delicate and like Super Wok itself, the flavour radiated an unassuming pleasantness. Whereas the Sui Mai had been an explosion in the mouth, the soup was perhaps a more perfect starter as the lighter, more refreshing flavours prepared our palates without being too overwhelming.

For our mains we decided on Sweet and Sour Chicken (£9.50) and Chicken Chow Mein (£9.50).

CatBot reappeared and before we knew it the table was covered in mountainous helpings of chicken, noodles and prawn crackers. Super Wok seems to know there needn’t be a choice between quantity and quality and I could imagine this banquet style being perfect for larger groups. The Chow Mein was delicious. The sweet and salty notes from the oyster sauce and toasted sesame oil were potent but not overwhelming – allowing my palate to explore the subtleties of the dish.

I scooped a pile of Sweet and Sour Chicken

on to my plate and was blown away by the energetic tanginess. I was glad I’d started with the Chow Mein as the sweet, almost syrupy flavour demands all of your attention.

We got through about half the meal before it had beaten us. We were able to ask for containers to keep the leftovers stored and relive the experience later on. Luckily for me, my partner forgot all about them.

VIEW FOOD PHOTOS @YM_LIVERPOOL

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WINE

Viva Veneto!

Jon Atkinson travels to Italy’s most prolific wine region for his latest selections ONE OF ITALY’S 20 ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS, Veneto makes up a fair chunk of the north-east of the country – stretching from its capital Venice in the east across to Verona in the west. Although wine is produced throughout Veneto, historically, it was the province of Verona which saw the most wine growing activity – home to established favourites such as Soave and Valpolicella. More recently it’s Prosecco, which can be grown in nine provinces across the regions of Veneto and Friuli-Venezia-Giulia, which has come to the fore, with most being centred in the province of Treviso. Indeed, Verona and Treviso account for about three quarters of the total wine output of the region.

From a winemaking perspective, Veneto generates more wine than any other region with close to 80 million hectares of vineyards! A lot of these are owned by farmers who just concentrate on growing grapes for a living, being able to sell their wares through the many cooperatives which are found throughout the region.

The countryside of Veneto is quite spectacular with the added attractions of Lake Garda and towns such as Vicenza, Verona and particularly Venice making it a particularly popular tourist destination.

Oenotourism has undoubtedly benefited from this and the established ease of access to the region from around Europe.

Soave Classico ‘Monopolio’ Cantina di Gambellara 2022 Soave has sadly become synonymous with pale, watery wines with just a subtle hint of lemony fruit which can be had for relatively little coin from many supermarkets – it has that in common with Pinot Grigio! There are three permitted grape varieties in Soave; firstly, and most importantly, Garganega, as well as Trebbiano di Soave and, somewhat randomly, Chardonnay! It is on the Volcanic slopes of the Classico zone that Garganega really comes into its own. This lovely and relatively modestly priced example is pale straw in colour with silver-green tints and medium viscosity. A fresh, floral nose with hints of almond, celery and fennel. A crisp, dry palate with refreshing acidity and a nice mineral edge. Medium-light bodied with a pithy, chalky texture. £10.25

Bardolino Chiaretto Cantina del Garda 2023 Bardolino is found on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, literally a five-minute drive south from the small town of Garda itself. To all intents and purposes, the red wines for which the region is best known are lighter versions of the neighbouring Valpolicella. However, Bardolino has another string to its bow – Chiaretto, its very own Rosé, which Valpolicella is not ‘allowed’. For me, this is one of the most authentic Italian Rosatos and definitely deserves to be appreciated by a wider audience! This lovely example from our friends at the Cantina del Garda cooperative is delightfully crisp, fresh and savoury dry Rosato made from a blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grown on the eastern shores of Lake Garda. £8.75

*EXCLUDES BIN ENDS / PROMOTIONAL LINES, SPIRITS, LIQUEURS, CHAMPAGNE & BEERS

Carlo V ‘Il Rosso dell’Imperatore’ IGT Veneto Rosso 2018 This is a really ‘serious’ Bordeaux-style blend and is the flagship red from Colli Vicentini – a brilliant Co-operative at Montecchio Maggiore that we have dealt with for many years. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grown in the Veneto is not unusual in itself as these two varieties are widely grown throughout the region. That having been said, ordinarily, these wines are light, fresh and juicy whereas Carlo V has a surprising heft and richness giving it a New World feel. Strict selection of grapes and 12 months oak ageing has given a serious red that is an opaque ruby-red in colour. Rich in ripe blackberry and Kirsch aromas on the nose with hints of new leather and prune. Quite full-bodied with plenty of dark fruit character nicely framed with a gentle oakiness. £10.75

Amarone della Valpolicella ‘Coste Bianche’ Tenute Fiorebelli 2017 An outstanding example of this much sought-after wine, in a modern style from a small, 3ha vineyard at Negrar. Unusually, this is made from 100% Corvina which was hand-picked with very low yield. Once picked, the extra ripe berries are left to dry out in the Fruttaio (a purpose built, very well aerated drying loft) where they can lose up to 50% of their water content.

These air-dried grapes then undergo a long maceration and fermentation prior to ageing for 20 months in a mixture of French and American oak barriques. The wine has a lovely deep garnet colour. It exudes aromas and flavours of sour black cherries, dark chocolate, coffee, and raisins. That it is full-bodied is a given, but despite its power, the palate is soft, supple and well-rounded; spicy and elegant, with an extremely long finish. £34.75

TO CLICK & COLLECT ANY OF THESE RECOMMENDATIONS OR TO VIEW THE REST OF OUR RANGE PLEASE VISIT WWW.WINETIMEWINES.CO.UK SPECIAL OFFER: QUOTE “YM LIVERPOOL 10” IN OUR SHOP TO GET A 10% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR WINE PURCHASE*

YM Liverpool 15

HOME

DEVELOPMENT

New affordable luxury apartments close to Liverpool city centre From

£104,995

16 YM Liverpool

EACH HOME AT THIS NEW Persimmon Homes development has been finished to the highest of standards and features an open plan kitchen/living area, handy storage space and a modern family bathroom. The second bedroom in the larger apartments are perfect for guests or for use as a home office.

Situated off Townsend Lane, Anfield Stadium is Edinburgh Park’s proud local landmark, but if football isn’t your thing, it’s only a 20-minute drive into the city centre.

There are regular bus services from Anfield, and you can catch a train on the MerseyRail network from Kirkdale or Sandhills. From there services take you to Liverpool Central in about six minutes – it’s a short walk to Liverpool Lime Street for onward journeys – or towards Southport along the coast.

Though the bars, restaurants, shops and attractions of Liverpool city centre are all within easy reach, Edinburgh Park is also ideally situated for young families. There are several primary schools less than a mile from the development including All Saints’ Catholic Voluntary Aided Primary School, St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School and Whitefield Primary School, all rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Persimmon Homes is currently offering a number of incentives to prospective buyers including its part exchange scheme as well as deposit or mortgage contributions.

For more information on Edinburgh Park call 0151 4593 872 or visit persimmonhomes.com YM Liverpool 17

Rebecca Christian, Liverpool illustrator, artist, designer

For every br�ght �dea everywhere Business & IP Centre Liverpool, in partnership with the British Library, is inspiring a thriving community of new and existing business owners. We offer a wide range of high-value services which are free of charge.

Visit us in Liverpool Central Library where you can access powerful databases with the latest market and company information, discover our events programme and get expert advice on starting or growing your business.

Get in touch to find out more about how our team can support you or your clients. +44 (0)15 1233 5835 libraries.enquiries@liverpool.gov.uk

BIPC Liverpool, Liverpool Central Library, William Brown Street, Liverpool L3 8EW

liverpool.gov.uk/bipc 18 YM Liverpool

BIPCLiverpool

BIPC Liverpool City Region

NEWS

Shadow Minister visits new homes taking shape on Merseyside Sefton Central MP met with housebuilder Persimmon at Summerhill Park development SEFTON MP AND SHADOW MINISTER Bill Esterson MP has visited a residential development in his constituency with housing high up the political agenda in Westminster.

Mr Esterson was given a tour of Persimmon’s Summerhill Park in Maghull which will deliver more than 400 new homes when completed, with 130 properties set to be transferred to a local housing association.

A range of house types are being made available ranging from one-bedroom terraced homes through to five-bed detached properties.

Hosted by Persimmon’s North West managing director, Mr Esterson met the different teams working on site including some of the 50-plus apprentices the housebuilder has across the region.

Bill Esterson, MP for Sefton Central, says: “It was great to visit Persimmon’s Summerhill Park development in my constituency in Maghull.

“It’s really encouraging to see the level of engagement with local residents and local contractors working on the site.

“I really enjoyed interesting discussions around build quality and energy efficiency and I look forward to seeing the rest of the development being built.”

Ian Hilliker, managing director of Persimmon North West, adds: “We always welcome the opportunity to demonstrate our role in delivering new housing and so we were delighted to host Mr Esterson at our Summerhill Park development.

“Persimmon is absolutely committed to delivering high quality homes for local people with nearly half of our customers over the last two years being first-time buyers.

“There are a wide range of house types and sizes available at Summerhill Park and with great transport links and locality to excellent schools, we’re sure it will prove especially popular with local homebuyers.”

Liverpool plasterer to be honoured with prestigious industry award Local law firm committed to championing rights of car buyers Drivers could be in line for payout after FCA investigation into car loans market PAUL CROWLEY & CO SOLICITORS has been addressing concerning revelations stemming from the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) investigation into the car finance sector.

The findings, unveiled by the investigation, illuminated widespread instances of mis-selling, sparking alarm within the industry.

In an effort to shed light on the matter, the FCA dispatched mystery shoppers to 122 car retailers across the United Kingdom. The results of this extensive investigation were nothing short of alarming. Among the 122 retailers surveyed, a mere 11 disclosed to customers the potential receipt of commissions by the dealership for facilitating the deal.

Julie Jones from the Liverpool law firm says: “At Paul Crowley & Co solicitors we are strongly advising car buyers who feel they may have been affected by the widespread financial mis-selling to come forward.

“Our team of claims experts will address any queries or concerns with transparency and diligence and will provide unwavering support and legal expertise on a No Win No Fee basis.

“This glaring lack of transparency underscored deep-seated issues within the car finance industry, prompting serious apprehensions regarding its practices.

“Such revelations emphasise the pressing need for enhanced accountability and robust consumer protection measures to safeguard the interests of buyers.”

Car buyers who feel they may have been mis-sold car finance and are looking to seek redress for their grievances can contact Paul Crowley & Co.

Ricardo Gooden has worked on some of the UK’s finest buildings during his 30-year career A LIVERPOOL PLASTERER has been selected to receive the Master Plasterer Award by The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers.

Ricardo Gooden, owner of RSTA Gooden, will travel to London’s Plaisterers’ Hall next month to be presented with his award by the Lord Mayor of London and Master of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, Tony Mitchell.

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.

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.

RSTA Gooden specialises in historic plaster restoration and conservation, and has worked on some of the UK’s most prestigious buildings.

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.

YM Liverpool 19

Your

essential

home gym kit Stylish sportswear and equipment you’ll actually use

20 YM Liverpool

WELLBEING

Sweaty Betty Super Soft Yoga Leggings

£88

THE PAST FEW YEARS have made many of us reconsider our gym memberships and look at ways to work out at home instead. It’s easier to get into than you’d think and it doesn’t have to involve a whole new wardrobe or load of equipment piled up in the garage/ spare room/study.

Start with some multitasking sportswear and a few key accessories – wrist or ankle weights will make any workout more challenging.

Resistance bands will help you activate your glutes before a run and increase the difficulty of a targeted lower body workout without weights, while gliding core discs challenge your abs, boosting balance and stability.

ASICS Women’s Running Shoes £105

Gaiam Restore Strength and Flexibility Kit

£23.99

Garmin Venu Sq 2 GPS Smartwatch £179.99

Yoga Mat

Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel

£15

£27.99

Peloton Yoga Block, Pack of 2

£25

n STARTER KIT FOR YOGA AT HOME A yoga block can provide extra support to help you ease into the poses, while a yoga towel gives a little extra grip – perfect for tricky postures. A yoga mat can make certain poses more comfortable, while yoga or barre socks are great for slippery floors and chilly feet.

Therabody Wave Solo Smart Vibrating Roller £69

n BEST RECOVERY WORKOUT KIT Your muscles, heart and lungs adapt and grow stronger when you rest between workouts, and recovery time also helps you avoid injury. Therabody massagers can give deep, targeted treatment even in hard-to-reach areas (plus they feel amazing).

If you’ve got outdoor space, now’s the time to invest in an influencer-approved Lumi Therapy ice bath. This insulated pod keeps water at a steady (cold) temperature while easing muscle pain to help recovery and lowering blood pressure. Build up your time and reduce the temperature slowly over a few weeks – and don’t forget to post it on Instagram.

Lumi Therapy Recovery Pod MAX Ice Bath

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Therabody TheraCup Smart Cupping Device £134

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YM Liverpool 21

HOME

PROPERTY

Spacious family home in the heart of rural Burscough The Whalley, from

£435,000

22 YM Liverpool

LOCATED AT PROSPECT HOMES’ Bridgemere development, this four-bedroom detached Whalley home (pictured) has been expertly designed for modern family living.

Just off the large entrance hall is a spacious lounge perfect for entertaining guests, with more than enough space for several sofas.

Running the length of the rear of the ground floor is a cavernous kitchen/diner which boasts a breakfast bar and French doors leading off the dining area into the rear garden.

Heading upstairs, a generous open landing gives access to three double bedrooms with the king sized main bedroom benefiting from its own private en suite.

The first floor also features a luxurious family bathroom and additional storage space.

Externally, to the front of the property you’ll find a beautiful lawn and a detached garage. To the rear of the home is a generously-proportioned enclosed garden, ideal for relaxing with family and friends during the summer months.

Residents will appreciate being surrounded by nature thanks to Bridgemere’s location next to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, while at the same time only being a few minutes away from essential amenities and transport connections in Burscough town centre.

All 54 homes at the development, with prices starting from £270,000, are from Prospect Homes’ newest collection of house designs including higher specifications and a large choice of upgrades and extras.

To find out more about Bridgemere, call 01704 468388 or visit www.prospecthomes.co.uk/bridgemere.

The images shown are of the Whalley show home at Prospect’s Mitton Grange development. They are for illustrative purposes and should be treated as guidance only. External elevations and architectural detailing can vary from development to development YM Liverpool 23

ADVERTORIA L

Social mobility initiative Football For Change announces first round of 2024 funding

North West-based charities, organisations and community projects which support young people are being encouraged to apply for grants

O

rganisations helping young people build better futures through education, employment, training and sport can qualify for grants of up to £10,000 after Football For Change announced its first round of 2024 funding.

Launched in 2021 by Trent AlexanderArnold, Jamie Carragher and Conor Coady, Football For Change has been backed by the likes of Real Madrid megastar Jude Bellingham as well as Gary Neville, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Peter Crouch and Beth Mead. David Beckham, Lionel Messi, Dua Lipa and others have also helped raise funds.

Football For Change brings together sports stars and business leaders to help NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people find education and employment opportunities, as well as helping others from underprivileged communities achieve their full potential.

The organisation also supports young people who may have been affected by crime help turn their lives around.

The social mobility initiative has raised over £1.1 million since its formation and released over £150,000 in grants to organisations and charities across the country in 2023, including the Liverpool FC Foundation, Everton in the Community and Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.

In 2024, the Football For Change fund, managed by the Communities Foundation for Lancashire and Merseyside, is encouraging young people, charities, organisations and community projects in the North West who support young people to apply for grants.

Funding will primarily focus on projects that provide life-changing opportunities in education, employment and sport, working with young people who have

experienced poverty and economic challenges.

Jamie Carragher, co-chair of Football For Change, says: “Football For Change is once again investing in young people who have experienced a difficult start in life.

“Last year we helped more than 20 charitable projects with grants, and the projects they delivered have been lifechanging.

“This funding offers organisations the opportunity to hand young people the tools that will enable them to build a better future for themselves and those around them through education, employment, training and sport.

“Football For Change has made a huge difference across the country over the last 12 months and I am excited to see how

“Football For Change is once again investing in young people who have experienced a difficult start in life.”

24 YM Liverpool

much this next round of funding helps reach even more people and change even more lives.”

Leicester City star and England defender, Conor Coady, adds: “Football For Change is needed more than ever.

This vital funding offers access to lifechanging opportunities to young people facing challenges to get on in life.

“I’d encourage everyone to apply, and I can’t wait to see the projects we’ll be funding to help young people reach their potential and build better futures.”

Public relations executive Dan Hughes launched Football For Change with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jamie Carragher and Conor Coady in 2021, and the charitable initiative has been sponsored

by Manchester-based Swinton Insurance since its inception.

Applications can be made via the Communities Foundation for Lancashire and Merseyside website at https:// cfmerseyside.org.uk/funds/footballfor-change until 23 February.

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Surviving with a sense of humour New ITVX comedy G’wed has been described as an “uplifting and heartwarming portrayal of the lives of working-class teenagers from Liverpool”. The show’s Merseysideborn scriptwriter Danny Kelly sat down with YM ahead of its release to discuss his commitment to challenging stereotypes and presenting a more wellrounded take on the city’s young people words leah collins

A

fter chatting over the phone with me for 45 minutes, Danny Kenny’s thoughts turn to his plans for the afternoon. The 37-year-old is currently living in Finland with his partner and two children, having relocated there two years ago. “It’s strange because I was trying to get various projects commissioned for so long whilst I was living in Liverpool, I moved to Finland and almost instantly landed a show – I’m not sure what that says about me!”

Danny’s latest work G’wed, out this month on ITVX, is a brandnew six-episode series from Golden Path Productions. It’s a huge opportunity for him after working on small-scale writing projects since the age of 24.

It is easy to see how Danny found success as a comedy writer, with his quick-wit and infectious sense of humour – but his journey to this point hasn’t always been an easy one. “I never imagined that I would be able to make a career in writing – it became more of a hobby really,” Danny says. “I went into teaching in my early 20s and failed miserably, but it pushed me to focus on doing what I enjoyed – producing scripts.” Growing up in Wallasey, Danny credits his working-class upbringing to his current success. “It fascinates me how the way you’re brought up can shape you, so it’s really important to me that G’wed challenges stereotypes and puts forward a more well-rounded take on the people of Liverpool – one which showcases their aspirations, struggles and love for one another.”

Set in Liverpool and filmed around the city, G’wed is a heart-warming and hilarious portrayal of teenagers today and how they view the world, focusing on the nuances of youthful Merseyside banter. The show follows anti-hero Reece, a superficially misbehaving, potty-mouthed lad who constantly surprises others with his quick wit – whether that be quoting Mother Teresa, his knowledge of the work of John Steinbeck or his incredibly mature take on grief. G’wed showcases a part of the country and a group of characters that are rarely portrayed on TV. “It was my younger cousin that inspired the character of Reece,’’ says Danny. “I saw how he had this unique, quick-witted intelligence and

26 YM Liverpool

how that operates in a working-class culture.”

Alongside established Liverpool-born performers Leanne Best, Louis Emerick and Sunetra Sarker, the series features an exciting cast of young local talent, many of whom will be making their screen debuts.

Their lived experience is at the heart of the show, which tackles larger issues such as grief, diversity, sex and class. Being close to their onscreen characters in age, Danny recalls the cast’s efforts to help him out and produce dialogue that remained true to their own speech. “They’d tell me, ‘we’d never say that!’ – which was great because I wanted the

INTERVIEW

speech to feel as natural as possible.” Yet Danny maintains that the majority of the show’s dialogue rings true the old phrase: ‘write what you know’, and recalls much of his own experience growing up in and around the city.

A recent screening of the show at Danny’s old secondary school in Wallasey was met with positive feedback and locals who’ve read the script have praised him for his unique and distinct capturing of Merseyside. The young audience at The Oldershaw School also appreciated G’wed’s relatability and authentic regional banter.

Danny himself compares the show’s gritty and heartfelt humour

to comedic counterparts such as Channel 4’s Derry Girls and The Inbetweeners. When he heard that ITV producers were looking for a similar programme, he was keen to put forward the script for G’wed – which turned out to be exactly what they were looking for. He recalls that despite taking his writing inspiration from the two shows, he hopes that G’wed’s script will remain equally as focused on people’s emotions. “It sure has a personal touch,” he says. “In the past maybe I wasn’t writing things as personally, so I definitely took a gamble on this. I thought, okay, that’s what I find funny, so I’ll go with that and see what people think.”

In terms of future projects, it seems as though Danny is just getting started. He is currently script editing a Finnish TV series called Ride Out, which focuses on the motorcycle racing world during the 1970s.

Despite residing in the Baltics, Danny still visits Merseyside regularly to catch up with friends and family. “When I’m back it’s like I’ve never left!” he says. “I miss the pound shops in Liscard and I like seeing which of them are still going!”

G’wed is available stream now on ITVX YM Liverpool 27

ADVERTORIA L

Historic organ restored to former glory at £3m church conversion

EW Developments is transforming St John’s in Waterloo into a collection of luxury apartments

A

Liverpool property developer has saved up to £2 million and two years of work with a unique organ refurbishment at its church conversion project in Waterloo.

EW Developments is transforming St John’s Church near South Road into 10 luxury apartments with an overall value of £3m.

The firm, which expects to complete the residential scheme later this month, committed to retaining original features such as stained glass windows, the pulpit and 130-year-old organ.

Built in 1865 on the island at the end of St John’s Road, St John’s 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.

EW Developments enlisted the support of Liverpool-based specialists David Wells Organ Builders to dismantle the original organ and undertake a total

refurbishment of the remaining organ case, pipes and console. The instrument was then relocated to a new area of the building and will frame the entrance to several apartments.

The four-week job also included the removal of animal waste and infestations, as well as a full clean. It would have cost up to £2m to build a new organ - a process which can take as long as two years.

EW successfully converted the 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.

Nigel Huntington of David Wells Organ Builders says: “We were very pleased to work in conjunction with EW Developments to restore what remained of the 1894 Abbot and Smith organ.

“The development of the listed building and the relocation of the organ has

“The organ will frame the entrance to the building perfectly. We are pleased to keep so many original features.”

28 YM Liverpool

returned a derelict and vandalised building and organ to a stunning residential conversion and safeguarded both a historic building and beautiful instrument.”

James Winters, co-owner of EW Developments alongside architect Rob Edwards, adds: “We are delighted to have partnered with David Wells Organ Builders to refurbish this stunning church organ, which obviously has a lot of history and meaning for the local community.

“The organ will frame the entrance to the building perfectly and Rob and I are so pleased to keep so many original features.

The stained glass windows are damaged in places, which we are in the process of repairing sympathetically, while the pulpit is also being refurbished and will remain in place.

“The 10 finished apartments will be a brilliant blend of history, modernity and luxury and will breathe fresh life and memories into the area.”

Looking to start a restoration,

building or plastering

project in Liverpool?

RSTA Gooden has 28 years experience in the restoration and conservation of historical and modern buildings We are passionate about our work and take pride in all aspects of our building and plastering, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction and service is always maintained

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2 Elmhurst Road, Liverpool, L25 2XX contact@rstagooden.com | 0151 487 9693 | 07788 107 043 YM Liverpool 29

Small

white, Clean and bright

and

Heather Marsh sings the praises of a little flower which bravely blooms every February to lift our spirits

I’VE TRIED CONSOLING MYSELF with the theory that if we get through February as quickly as we have January, it won’t be long before spring. But in actual fact, that’s just wishful thinking. In all honesty, I believe we’ve already had more than our fair share of dark and dismal days this year, not to mention the storms. Even taking heed of my own advice and embracing the winter weather by wrapping up and getting out into the garden still doesn’t cut it most days. But that’s all before I spot my first Snowdrop. Nothing boosts my mood more than the sight of this tiny white flower, bravely blooming for all to see, whatever the weather!

If you go down to the woods today (Priory Woods in St Michael’s to be precise), awaiting you is a sight to behold... Snowdrops growing en masse. Hundreds of dainty white bells carpet the woodland floor, pure and chaste in their serene beauty, creating a magical spectacle that I guarantee will lift your spirits. When I first came across this breathtaking sight, the well-known song ‘Edelweiss’ from The Sound of Music sprang to mind – specifically the line ‘You look happy to meet me’, with my simple answer being, ‘I sure do!’. This little beacon of

30 YM Liverpool

GARDENING

hope, officially named the Galanthus nivalis, which means ‘milk flower of the snow’, is a trailblazer and reminds us that there is life indeed beneath the dark cold earth and if we hang on in there, it won’t be long before other flowers follow suit and their blooms burst forth.

Time to party with the saints!

St Dorothy. Feast day, 6 February It was probably someone a long time ago who, realising how dark and dreary February can be, thought it a good idea to lift and brighten the mood by celebrating lots of saint’s days during the month. The biggest and most wellknown of the feast days is of course Valentine’s Day on 14 February. But did you know, as my lovely friend recently informed me, that it’s St Brigid’s feast on the first day of this month that kickstarts all the saintly celebrations. Known as the bride of Ireland, she’s considered the country’s secondary patron saint. Following her is a whole host of saints right throughout the entire month. St Blaise, whose feast day falls on 3 February, is the patron saint of sore throats on account he saved a child’s life who was choking on a fish bone. Then there’s St Cornelius, St Agatha, St Julian, St Jerome and St Simeon to name a few of February’s holy celebs. Even though it’s St Valentine who takes centre stage this month amongst the many other worthy contestants, there’s only one saint I’ll be raising a spade to and that has to be the green-fingered St Dorothy – patron saint of gardeners everywhere. Cheers to you St Dorothy!

feel your patch is extensive enough is an easy job. Again, like the initial planting, simply lift large clumps in the green, gently prising these apart with your hands and planting them at the same depth with a good watering to finish.

Snowdrop drift

Snowdrops favour damp shaded places and flower from early January to the end of March. Naturalised in these areas, snowdrops grow and multiply as they establish themselves, forming clumps and drifts as they mature. The snowdrop is, as its name indicates, a tough and hardy little plant which has no trouble coping with frosts and snowfall and grows happily everywhere in the UK. If you’re thinking of trying to create some of this magic yourself, planting snowdrops in February is the best time to do it. Choose an area with moist, well-drained soil – somewhere in partial shade is ideal, mimicking their natural woodland habitat. Under and around deciduous trees or shrubs, rockeries and even in grass are all good places. You can plant snowdrops as bare bulbs in the autumn, but I strongly recommend planting them ‘in the green’ as they call it. This is the method of planting just after flowering but whilst the snowdrop is still in leaf – giving them a much better chance of establishing themselves. Buying snowdrops in pots makes planting a relatively easy job with between 25-75 plants giving you a descent-sized drift. After planting you don’t have to worry about them. They will then grow quickly and multiply with each season. Moving snowdrops to other locations once you

Quantity rather than variety

There are literally hundreds of snowdrop varieties to choose from but importantly they all remain white in colour. The only difference is some flowers are single or double blooms while others have large or small blooms. Whichever variety you choose, the main idea is to create that woodland drift. All snowdrops prove to be very hardy and easy to grow with little maintenance if any after planting. Having said all that, I did read that Alan Titchmarsh has more than 30 varieties of snowdrops growing in his garden. Whilst I can’t compete with Alan on this one, here are a few of my favourites that I can guarantee will delight: Galanthus nivalis is the most commonly grown variety of snowdrop and is a good one to start with and stock up on.

Galanthus ‘S. Arnott’ is an old variety that quickly forms thick clumps – ideal if you want to divide and transplant to create other drifts.

Galanthus elwesii ‘Ladybird’ and Galanthus elwesii ‘Glenchantress’ are both stunning large flowering varieties.

Galanthus ‘Ding Dong’ is dainty and reminds me of my favourite pearl drop earrings. A must-have variety if you’re looking for something classic.

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

YM Liverpool 31

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NEWS

Knowsley-based energy solutions firm secures £60m in contract deals Next Energy will work with some of the country’s most prominent social landlords including Liverpool’s Plus Dane Housing ENERGY SOLUTIONS FIRM NEXT ENERGY has secured £60 million in contract deals as part of the Government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave (SHDF) and Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2) initiatives.

The contracts, which will see the company install a range of energy-efficient home improvements across the North West and North East, will be delivered on behalf of several social housing providers including Liverpool-based Plus Dane Housing – servicing more than 4,000 homes over a two-year period.

The SHDF and HUG2 initiatives are part of the Government’s pledge to improve the energy performance of homes as the UK continues on its pathway to net zero, helping social housing providers and eligible private homeowners tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions.

Knowsley-based Next Energy, which specialises in making homes more energy efficient, will be installing solar PV panels and air source heat pumps (ASHP), plus cavity wall, external wall and loft insulations, as well as floor, roof and internal wall retrofits. The firm will also provide window and door replacements.

Retrofitted households can save up to an average of £567 per year whilst also protecting their homes against rising energy costs.

Next Energy was established in 2016 in response to the government’s net zero ambitions. Since its inception, the company has gone on to become one of the UK’s leading renewable insulation heating specialists, providing energy solutions for over 18,000 domestic and commercial customers.

The company has worked with providers such as Shell, Octopus, OVO Energy, British Gas and E.ON to help meet the targets set under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme. More recently, it has worked with rural councils across England and Wales to further tackle the fuel poverty crisis for residents in off-gas areas.

Lee McNally, director at Next Energy, says: “We are delighted with the string of recent contract wins. Our partnerships with Combined Authorities and housing associations up and down the UK mean we can continue to help make homes more energy efficient, bring down household bills and do our bit to tackle the climate crisis.

“As it stands today, over three million UK households are currently living in fuel poverty. Pair this with the growing number of harmful carbon emissions damaging our planet, and the need for properly insulated homes has never been more important.

“Through the work that we do to make homes properly insulated and well heated, we can not only save the average household hundreds of pounds, but also accelerate the UK on its journey towards net zero.”

We can not only save the average household hundreds of pounds, but also accelerate the UK on its journey towards net zero.

YM Liverpool 33

EVENTS

What’s on...

Events not to be missed over the next four weeks

Edward Scissorhands, Liverpool Empire 20-24 February

Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Matthew Bourne and his New Adventures company return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world.

9-10 February Love Folk Festival 2024, The Atkinson 12 February Bernie Sanders, Philharmonic Hall 12-17 February The Tiger Who Came To Tea, Liverpool Playhouse 18 February

ast ‘Love Is C The Call’ Album Performance, Jacaranda Baltic

28 February Editors, O2 Academy 1 March Russell Watson, Liverpool Cathedral 7 March Rick Astley, M&S Bank Arena

Hamlet, Picturehouse @ FACT 28 February

Shakespeare’s classic tragedy reimagined for the modern day as a gripping psychological thriller with Ian McKellen reprising his lead role as Hamlet, a man who descends into madness as he seeks vengeance against his uncle for the apparent murder of his father.

34 YM Liverpool

Revolutionary Spirit – An Evening With Paul Simpson, Oh Me Oh My 27 February

Paul Simpson discusses his longawaited memoir ‘Revolutionary Spirit – A Post-Punk Exorcism: The Teardrop Explodes, Care, The Wild Swans and Beyond’ with his great friend, Echo & the Bunnymen guitarist, Will Sergeant.

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