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www.ymliverpool.com MAY 2021

Claire Sweeney Meets...

Star of stage and screen on her new radio series

Property in Focus Restaurant Review Bluebells in Bloom Recipe of the Month

YM Liverpool

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issue #491

May

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ello and welcome to the May edition of YM Liverpool! Our big interview this month is with Liverpool’s very own Claire Sweeney. The Walton-born star of stage and screen is back on the airwaves as host of ‘Claire Sweeney Meets’. I caught up with the former Brookside actress to discuss the new BBC Radio Merseyside series which features in-depth chats with some of Liverpool’s most famous names in music, TV, film, theatre and sport. We’re also delighted to bring you our first restaurant review since last November. Tom Beattie enjoyed an afternoon of alfresco dining in the shadow of St Nick’s church at Ma Boyle’s Alehouse and Eatery. Staying with food and this month’s recipe comes from Carmine’s – a new Italian café and deli situated on Sefton Street. Owners Enzo and Arianna can’t wait to open later this month and have shared their authentic recipe for lasagne to hopefully whet your appetite. On the property front, we have news of an ambitious new hotel set to launch on Old Hall Street this summer and shine the spotlight on a luxury two-bedroom apartment at The Copper House. Meanwhile, our fashion editor Annie S shares a selection of pieces perfect for outdoor socialising this spring. Plus our resident gardening expert Heather Marsh discovers the beauty of Speke Hall’s stunning bluebell wood and Videodyssey’s Andy Johnson presents his latest movie pick. Enjoy!

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Claire Sweeney is back on the airwaves with a brand new series for BBC Radio Merseyside. The star of stage and screen chats to some of the most famous names in music, TV, film, theatre, entertainment and sport, all of who are from Liverpool or have a Merseyside connection. The likes of Hollywood actor Jason Isaacs, Liverpool FC legend John Barnes and Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s Holly Johnson share priceless stories with the former Brookside actress and pick their favourite songs. words lawrence saunders

l o o p Liver made the

o i d a r A lot of the interviewees are my friends – it was exactly like gabbing to your mate on the phone. 4

YM Liverpool

Do you still live in Liverpool? I live between London and Liverpool. I’ve got my flat in Liverpool and I split my time between the two. I recently spent two weeks in Liverpool for my 50th birthday. We went to my favourite Liverpool restaurant, Gusto at the Albert Dock. Every Christmas Eve we all go there as a family. It holds such a special place in my heart. I come home a lot but I like having the best of both worlds. Although whenever I come back to Liverpool I always get the desire to move home permanently – especially as I’m getting older. But my boy is in school down here and my life, work-wise, is down here too. How did ‘Claire Sweeney Meets’ come about? My agent has been wanting me to get back into radio for a while and she came up with the idea [for Sweeney

Meets] with BBC Radio Merseyside. I went through my phonebook, and because of the lockdown a lot of people were free. My friend Pete Price helped me get Paul O’Grady and Ricky Tomlinson’s number. My agent is friends with [Liverpool-born, Hollywood star] Jason Isaacs so she managed to get him. It’s been a little collaboration really and I’ve really enjoyed it.

How did you find the interview process? To be honest, because a lot of the interviewees are my friends, it was exactly like gabbing to your mate on the phone. For example, the first interview was with one of my closest friends, Tony Maudsley (Benidorm, Coronation Street). I’m glad he was my first guest because I was so nervous and then it was just me and him on the

o star

INTERVIEW

phone having a gab. We chatted away, he told me his favourite songs and funny stories. We kind of forgot what we were doing! Even though you knew many of the people you interviewed, did you learn anything interesting which you didn’t know beforehand? Oh yeah! I mean, me and Tony [Maudsley] toured together for a year on ‘Hairspray’ and I thought I knew all of his funny stories. But then he told me this one about how when he was kid he would crash weddings! He loved weddings so much that he used to listen to the radio on a Saturday morning to find out if any were taking place in his local church. He’d get there early and sit at the front with the family! After the congregation left the vicar would let him have a go on the organ and all he could play was Lily the Pink by The Scaffold. You’ve said that during lockdown, music really helped you get through the monotony of it all. Is there any song in particular that you like at the moment? I love the new Bruno Mars song (‘Leave the Door Open’ w/ Anderson .Paak as Silk Sonic). It’s the best song I’ve heard in ages, proper old school soul – it’s wonderful. What was great about [Sweeney Meets] was that I realised what good therapy music and conversation is. When I was doing my research for the show, I listened to the guest’s music choices. John Barnes picked Bob Marley and I hadn’t listened to the Exodus album for ages. Louis Emerick (Brookside) chose ‘What’s Going On’ by Marvin Gaye, which is another of my favourite albums. It was like a pandora’s box of all these songs which I’d not heard for ages.

What’s great about the show was that I realised what good therapy music and conversation is. John Barnes actually talked about playing football in his back garden with Marvin Gaye and told me that when his father (Ken Barnes) was manager of the Jamaica national football team, Bob Marley used to come and watch training. How have you coped during lockdown? I’ve been very, very lucky due to the fact that I have some savings and they have literally ‘saved’ me. I haven’t earned a penny really. It’s been hard but I’ve loved the quality time I’ve had with my son. That’s been a joy. Whilst you’re perhaps best known for your TV work, you’ve of course starred in many musicals over the years. Is it true that you gave up the presenting job on ‘60 Minute Makeover’ to star alongside Patrick Swayze in ‘Guys And Dolls’? Yes, absolutely! I just loved Patrick. With ‘60 Minute Makeover’, I’d kind of ran out of things to say about wet paint! I couldn’t get excited about a ‘feature wall’ anymore either! Given live theatre is now returning, if you could play a role from any show, past or present, which one would you choose? Mrs Johnstone from ‘Blood Brothers’. Willy Russell is wonderful. The last show I did before lockdown was ‘Shirley Valentine’. I also did ‘Educating Rita’. He’s just wonderful and an amazing writer. Can we expect to see you back on the stage again soon? I don’t know! Our job is so precarious. I’ve got nothing in my diary as such, but in this world one phone call can change what you’re going to do overnight, so who knows! All episodes of ‘Claire Sweeney Meets’ will be available on the BBC Radio Merseyside website

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The Sweeney Files n Played Lindsey Corkhill in Brookside, (19911992, 1995-2003) n Entertained on cruise ships for P&O as a singer (1992-1995) n Appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in aid of Comic Relief (2001) n Played Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago (2001) n Became the face of Marks and Spencer (2001) n Released an album, Claire (2002) n Took lead part in the world tour of Fosse (2003) n Was a regular panelist on Loose Women (2003-2005) n Played Miss Adelaide in the British production of Guys and Dolls (2006) n Presented a number of TV shows including Challenge of a Lifetime (2001), A Song for Europe (2002), I’m Famous and Frightened! (2005), Here Comes the Sun (2003), 60 Minute Makeover (2004–2006) n Contestant on Strictly Come Dancing (2004) n Performed at A Party To Remember in celebration of VE Day 60 (2005) n Hosted Magic of the Musicals, Magic Radio (2015) n Appeared in TV series including Holby City (2014), Benidorm (2018), Scarborough (2019)

YM Liverpool

ADVERTORIAL

More than half of UK adults now seek financial advice As we look back on the 12 months since the UK first went into lockdown one thing is abundantly clear – financially, the last year has been good for some people

e are not talking about the billionaires who have seen their shares rocket during lockdown but rather the many, many people who have saved money by not commuting, not buying lunch from the sandwich shop, and not going on holiday. Depending on which paper you read, people in the UK have ‘accidently’ saved anywhere between £100bn and £125bn during lockdown. At the opposite end of the spectrum, lockdown has been hard for millions of people as businesses have failed, jobs have been lost and they have been forced to rely on their savings. In both cases there has been a need for financial planning advice. A year ago, it might have been assumed that fewer people would need financial advice as a new money management or savings and investing app came out virtually every other day.

most frequently highlighted being: ‘having to use savings to make ends meet’ and ‘my investments losing money.’ Interestingly, the report revealed that the need for financial advice was felt most among the younger generations – Millennials and Generation Z, exactly the generations we might have assumed would shun traditional advice in favour of apps and online portals. Seventy-four percent of Millennials said that they had, or were going to, see a financial adviser, with 58% of Generation Z echoing those sentiments. The key drivers for these generations were ‘avoiding financial difficulties’ and ‘wanting to start [my] investment journey.’ Clearly the last 12 months have been difficult for everyone. What they have illustrated is that financial planning

However, according to a recent report from Prudential, the exact opposite is the case. More than half – 53% – of UK adults say that financial problems and changed circumstances over the last 12 months have caused them to seek financial advice. Of this figure, 33% have already sought financial advice, whilst the remaining 20% are planning to do so. For most of those responding to the survey the glass was, unfortunately, half-empty, with 85% of people saying they had concerns about the next twelve months, with the two concerns

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advice will always be required and that people – of whatever generation – will always value face-to-face advice (even if that has been face to Zoom advice recently…) We have been helping with clients’ concerns over various areas such as Mortgage Payment Holidays, wanting to move home and trying to beat the Stamp Duty Holiday, concern over their retirement funds when the market values dropped, and worries if they have the right type of insurance to cover periods of illness and even when someone has sadly died, we have also been involved helping with their Wills and Probate issues. Our clients can rest assured that whatever happens with the pandemic – and however long the restrictions stay in force – our commitment to providing the very best long-term financial planning advice will never waiver.

NEWS

HOLIDAY GIANT PREDICTS BOOM IN SALES WITH MOST ‘BRITISH SUMMER ON RECORD’ Lyons Holiday Parks has seen a spike in bookings and holiday home purchases as Brits shun overseas travel CELEBRATING A BUSTLING re-opening day on 12 April as hundreds of holidaymakers crossed the borders to Welsh soil, group bookings manager Michelle McKelvie says: “Our uptake in bookings is just absolutely brilliant. “But we’re not just happy to see the figures, especially after such a hard year. It’s seeing families back on-park and enjoying the sunshine as well as the breaks they all deserve which is putting a smile on our faces this month.” The Lyons group – which has 13 holiday parks across North Wales and one in Cumbria – has been subject to government restrictions, like many other tourism and hospitality businesses, and has suffered its quietest year-to-date.

Geoff Mound, director at Lyons, says: “It has been a long time coming, but thankfully we are able to start welcoming back both owners and guests who live in Wales to our parks once again. “It’s not just the keen holidaymakers who are itching to have a break by the coast – we also cater to over 3,000 holiday homeowners who feel like they have hugely missed out this year. “It’s easy to see how our owners’ mental health and wellbeing have been negatively

impacted with the restrictions over the past year. But things are finally looking up, and it’s great to see some spark back on our parks.” Beth Hughes, marketing and PR executive, adds: “The most British summer on record – that’s our goal for this year! “There’s so much potential in the next few months for the North Wales economy to bounce back, and for everyone to get the holiday they really want. “We hope that people can rediscover local joys and recover from a very difficult year.”

CONTINUED GROWTH PROMPTS NEW HIRES AT PAUL CROWLEY & CO Liverpool-based law firm is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its senior management team JAMES BOYD HAS BEEN appointed as financial director, and John Walker as head of private client. With over 20 years experience working at board level as part of an executive management team, James Boyd was the “perfect addition to take the business forward”. As financial director, James brings with him both the expertise and experience to develop the firm’s strategic planning for future growth. With a strong track record of working at a strategic level and using his analytical background to

commercial gain, he will play a significant role in continuing the firm’s growth, increasing turnover and managing new business relationships. The firm is also delighted to welcome private law specialist John Walker to head up its expanding private client department. John, who recently celebrated his 40th year in the legal profession as a solicitor, will apply his industry experience to maintaining excellent client satisfaction and contribute to the company’s continued growth. Paul Crowley & Co would like to take the opportunity to wish

both John and James every success in their new roles. Paul Crowley, senior partner, says: “We are delighted to welcome John Walker and James Boyd to the company.

“I am confident that with their combined wealth of knowledge and experience, they will be an excellent prospect to complement our existing management and private client teams.” YM Liverpool

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ADVERTORIAL

Accidents in the workplace – consult the legal experts?

Dan Griffiths Head of Personal Injury Paul Crowley & Co

If you have been involved in a workplace accident and suffered a serious injury, the legal experts at Paul Crowley & Co are here to help. It is an employer’s legal responsibility to ensure the workplace is a safe environment. The consequences of negligence in the workplace can have far reaching implications leaving a person unable to return to work, suffering from emotional distress and long term financial hardship. If your employer has been negligent and is at fault for your workplace injury, then you could be entitled to make a claim for compensation. If you have suffered an Accident at Work what are your rights?

If you are unfortunate to have sustained an accident in the workplace and your employer has failed to comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act, then you have a right to be properly compensated for the physical and psychological pain suffered and for any financial losses incurred as a result of your injury. If your workplace accident causes you to take time off work, your employer cannot sack you and you may be entitled to statutory sick pay. If you make a compensation claim against your employer for a workplace accident, it is illegal for your employer to discipline or sack you for making a claim. If your employer decides to sack you, Paul Crowley & Co would take legal action against your employer for unfair dismissal.

Can I make a personal injury claim as a result of my employer’s negligence? Yes you can, you have the right to seek compensation for the pain and discomfort experienced and to recover any out of pocket financial losses. Your employer is required by law to have sufficient insurance to cover the cost of your injuries in the event of an accident.

Is there a time limit to making a personal injury claim? Yes in the UK

there is a time limit to making a personal injury claim against your employer,

the claim should be started within three years of the accident taking place.

What qualifies as an Accident at Work? An Accident at Work as

defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is an event that results in injury or ill health. Any accident that you can suffer at work while carrying out your duties, can be classified as an Accident at Work: ■ ■ ■

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What can I claim for? Accidents at work can lead to disability, distress and repercussions that can remain long after you have returned to your place of work. Our expert lawyers at Paul Crowley & Co are on your side and will look to claim for the pain and suffering caused by the accident, the impact on your future career prospects, loss of earnings, the cost of any medical treatment, alterations required to your home, travel and accommodation costs and also any court or legal fees. Paul Crowley & Co the Accident at Work compensation experts

It is a perfectly natural feeling for anyone who has suffered an injury at work to feel uncomfortable about taking action against their employer. It is the aim of Paul Crowley & Co’s legal experts to put you back in the position you would be in had the accident not happened. Our Accident at Work lawyers have a vast wealth of experience when it comes to workplace accidents, we will explain the claims process in an easy to understand manner, and answer any questions you may have, leaving you to make the final decision on whether to pursue a compensation claim.

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With nothing to lose and everything to gain, why wait? To speak to Dan Griffiths or one of our compensation claims experts please call 0151 264 7363 www.paulcrowley.co.uk

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FOOD

Restaurant review

Ma Boyle’s Alehouse & Eatery By Tom Beattie |

Gastropub |

In direct view of St Nick’s church, which for hundreds of years was the first sign of home for the returning sailors of Liverpool on their approach from the Mersey, Ma Boyle’s was an apt setting for my own return to the city after months away. With members of the public having been separated from friends and loved ones so often in the past year, some by hundreds of miles, there is a sense of reunion that creates a very unique buzz about venues currently and, in this sense, Ma Boyle’s stands as a perfect example of this. There was a notable mix of generations present in the new alfresco dining area at this historic city centre pub located just off The Strand. Be it couples, groups of students or families, it was striking how Ma Boyle’s felt like a place where so many demographics felt it right to reconvene. Of course, these are still far from normal times, given all the usual regulations one would expect are still in place here. That said, far from the experience feeling in any way santised, setting foot into the beautifully crafted new alfresco dining area in earshot of the peaceful St Nick’s Gardens, I truly did feel like I had never been away from the city. Our waiter Adam showed us to our table, his service affable and friendly throughout, and within minutes of sitting down, both myself and my guest had remarked on the pleasant, almost giddy atmosphere of Ma Boyle’s. It felt like such a nice reminder of the buzz that so often can be found in the city on weekends.

££ |

7 Tower Gardens, Tower Building, The Strand L3 1LG

Once we had settled in with a couple of drinks (a bottle of San Miguel, £4, and a large White Zinfandel, £5.90), we were quickly working up an appetite and decided to tackle a couple of starters from the main menu. For our first course, we ordered crispy chicken strips (£7) and loaded nachos topped with beef brisket (£5.50). Not only were the dishes clearly freshly prepared, they also packed a real punch in terms of flavour and while still leaving room for more, they represented good value.

It was striking how Ma Boyle’s felt like a place where so many demographics felt it right to reconvene. We soon set about deciding what next to have for our mains. After moments of quiet deliberation, I set upon a classic 8oz rump steak with homemade chips, tomatoes and salad with peppercorn sauce (£15), with my guest opting for the equally inviting rosemary pork belly with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables (£13). There is something very homely about the menu, one which counts a bowl of Scouse with crusty bread (£8.50) amongst its range of options. It is a pub that stays true to its roots and is proud of them it seems. The emphasis is very much on

ensuring people have a place to go that is as inviting as it is familiar. Upon the arrival of our second round of courses, one could not help but be struck by the ornate presentation of the dishes themselves. My own dish was perfectly cooked to my liking and it was clear that a great deal of care had gone into the meal itself. The home-cooked, twice cooked chips were a real treat and complimented the steak itself, while adding a delightful rustic twist to proceedings. My guest was kind enough to allow me a taste of her dish and I can also confirm the succulence of the pork, along with the refreshing aspect of the steamed vegetables, again displayed the attention to detail of the venue’s kitchen staff. To finish, it felt only right to top things off with a classic sticky toffee pudding (£4.50). Perfectly sweet, clearly homemade and topped with ice cream, it was an admittedly heavenly way to end a glorious afternoon spent in view of the splendid old St Nick’s! Over the past twelve months, Ma Boyle’s will have undoubtedly experienced one of the most peculiar years in its long existence. Nevertheless, with over £15,000 having been invested into the pub’s new outdoor dining area, it is clear that owner Ian Hoskins is intent on ensuring that the Ma Boyle’s stays at the forefront of the city’s pub offering. In showing a unique mix of the traditional with an ability to adapt to landmark change, the venue may be set to enter yet another fruitful era in its storied history.

VIEW FOOD PHOTOS @YM_LIVERPOOL

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FOOD

RECIPE of the month Enzo and Arianna from Carmine’s café on Sefton Street’s share their authentic recipe for the classic Italian dish, lasagne

INGREDIENTS Serves 8 Requires 22/24 sheets of egg lasagne

METHOD For the bolognese sauce: 1W ash the carrots and chop finely together with the onion. 2P our the olive oil into a saucepan, heat and add the chopped carrot/onion, fry for a few minutes and keep stirring. 3O nce the vegetables have wilted, add the minced meat and brown for a few minutes. When the meat looks dry, pour in the white wine. Evaporate the alcohol and then add the tomato sauce. Season to taste with salt and cook over medium heat for about two

For the bolognese sauce • 750g minced beef • Half an onion • 1 glass white wine • 2 carrots • 2 bottles of tomato passata • Pinch of salt

hours with the lid slightly raised. Stir occasionally and add a little water if required. For the béchamel sauce: 1M elt the butter in a saucepan over low heat and then, removing it from the heat, add the sifted flour. Stir vigorously with a whisk to remove the lumps and reposition on the heat until the mixture is golden. 2W ork the milk into the mixture with a whisk to avoid lumps. Season with salt and nutmeg and, stirring constantly with the whisk, cook the béchamel sauce until it is thick and full-

• 3 tbsps of extra virgin olive oil

• Pinch of grated nutmeg • Pinch of salt

For the béchamel sauce

Other ingredients

• 100g ‘00’ flour • 1l whole milk • 100g butter

• 250g Parmesan cheese (grated) • 250g Mozzarella (well drained)

bodied. To make the sauce more delicate you can add some extra milk. For the lasagne: 1D istribute a ladle of meaty sauce on the bottom of a rectangular baking dish about 30x20cm in size. 2L ay the lasagne sheets on the entire surface and cover with béchamel sauce, a few more ladles of meat sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. 3C over with lasagne sheets and proceed in layers until the ingredients are exhausted. 4F inish with a layer of lasagne seasoned with plenty of

bolognese sauce and another generous sprinkle of Parmesan. 5B ake in a preheated oven at 180ºC for about 30 minutes – until you can see a delicious golden crust forming on the surface. 6R emove from the oven and leave to cool before serving with a good medium bodied red wine – possibly a Lambrusco or Sangiovese. Carmine’s is aiming to open the week commencing 17 May when lockdown restrictions are hopefully eased and customers are permitted to eat and drink indoors

GIVE ENZO AND ARIANNA’S RECIPE A GO AND POST THE RESULTS ON INSTAGRAM! TAG US @YM_LIVERPOOL

YM Liverpool

If you go down to the

woods today...

Heather Marsh on why the magic of a bluebell wood will leave you spellbound

YM Liverpool

As we wandered further on through the Clough, I was keen to know how this ancient place was preserved and maintained. “The National Trust strives to care and protect these woodlands and bluebell path and consider it one of their most precious yet vulnerable areas,” Ian said. “The English bluebell is a classic wildflower. Almost half of the world’s bluebells are found in the UK, surprisingly hardly any are found anywhere else in the world.

IMAGES: ©DAVID JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

I CAN’T QUITE BELIEVE that this time last year, when I was originally writing this feature, the country would go into its first lockdown just days later. It seems so long ago now, and although things continue to improve, the pandemic has changed our lives in ways we could never have expected, having had a deep emotional impact on so many of us. However, with lockdown restrictions easing and spring most definitely bursting forth, many of us are now feeling a little more confident about venturing further afield and even thinking about visiting places other than our local park. Although we still have to stay relatively close to home, a lot of us would appreciate a natural haven of peace and tranquillity, and in Speke Hall we have exactly that. An English bluebell wood is a classic model of our country’s woodland landscape, diminishing maybe, but many of them are still with us – if you just know where to look. At this time of year, the bluebell path at Speke Hall is a stunning sight. So, when I was invited to meet head ranger Ian Ford and shown around these beautiful woodlands last April, I was delighted. Ian has worked at Speke for over 30 years, and as we began our tour, I started by asking him how popular the bluebell woods are today. “Around about now we start getting phone calls all the time asking if the bluebells are in flower. People from all over the country, not just locals, come to see this spectacle”, he said. “This is because the flowering season fluctuates from year to year, because of the weather really, but usually blooming time is from April to mid-May. “The historic woodland surrounding the hall is actually quite ancient, originally known as ‘Le Clough’, and it was even mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086 – meaning that this woodland is far older than the hall itself!”

GARDENING

CREATE YOUR OWN BLUEBELL WOOD If you would like to recreate your own little bit of woodland magic, you can buy bluebells to plant and grow yourself. Bluebells grow from seed in the wild and take years to reach maturity. Buying them as bulbs is probably the easiest way to grow them yourself. Planting ‘dry’ in autumn below trees and shrubs in partial shade is ideal – mimicking their natural woodland setting.

“During spring, the floor of the Clough woodland is transformed into a beautiful carpet of blue flowers. “We carefully manage the woodland canopy to protect this ancient and unique species of bluebell. “If the canopy is too dense, the bluebells will drown in the darkness below, too much light and they will be scorched. “Each spring the bluebells begin nature’s race against time to soak up the light in order to feed their bulbs for next year. That’s why it is To achieve a natural ‘drift’ look, simply throw the bulbs across the so important not to trample or pick bluebells so they can bloom again chosen growing area and plant them where they land. Like all the following year.” other bulbs, bluebells can be grown successfully in pots as well, so Ian then showed me the newly installed footpath through the you don’t need a spare bit of woodland to enjoy their presence. woods that had just been completed and funded by donations. It not only actively helps the conservation of the flowers, but by having this You can also plant bluebells ‘in the green’ each spring – this means path, visitors can now enjoy the spectacular views without the danger you plant bulbs which have been lifted at the suppliers just after of trampling on them. The path is also wheelchair friendly. flowering. Although this is a good way of seeing where you have “Like so much that’s affected by climate change, planted, bluebells can still often take years to establish our bluebells are under threat. Over the next themselves, but be patient, it’s worth it. 20 years it will become rarer to see a native IAN’S UPDATE bluebell wood and so that’s why here at Speke Hall is so special,” added Ian. My visit gave me such a wonderful insight into the “We now have the gardens and I also asked Ian about the importance of these ancient woods. I finished by estate open. We are operating a Spanish bluebell and the effect asking Ian what people could do to help preserve booking system so we can control social that had on preservation. and maintain the wood’s prosperity for generations distancing and help make your visit safe and “Cross pollination with the to come. enjoyable. Further information can be found on English bluebell and the “The National Trust aims to continue to lovingly the National Trust website. Spanish variant is indeed restore and protect these woodlands forever,” “The bluebells are looking spectacular this year, another treat. Although this he said. one of the best displays I have seen for many variety is much less prolific, “Therefore everyone who visits is contributing to years. Many people are now enjoying the often white in colour and a the cost of preserving and maintaining these special spectacle of colour, perfume and sounds of much bigger flower overall, by woodlands. Also, by joining the National Trust as a the woodland in spring – a real treat for letting the Spanish variety flourish member or simply buying a coffee or gift, every penny the senses and uplifting for the spirit our native flower is in danger of that’s spent here goes back into the care of Speke Hall after a long period of lockdown.” becoming extinct.” and its woodlands.” YM Liverpool

GARDENING

RECIPE

Rhubarb Crumble

You don’t have to force it Putting forced rhubarb to one side for now, growing rhubarb the more conventional way is relatively easy. Once established, a rhubarb plant will provide you with plentiful crops for years to come. Rhubarb prefers a rich fertile soil that is free draining and in an open sunny spot. Planting a nursery bought plant is a foolproof way of ensuring a healthy plant. However, if you know someone with a mature plant then acquiring a crown from them to plant and grow is the next best way. Do this in late autumn and the crown you plant should have a visible dormant bud. Crowns are just off shoots from the parent plant. Rhubarb is not fussy but does benefit from a good mulch to keep it thriving. Not much to ask I don’t think in return for all that juicy fruit! Please don’t forget the leaves of the plant are poisonous and definitely not to be eaten.

Here is my simple recipe for a delicious Rhubarb Crumble. If you can get hold of some forced rhubarb this pudding is absolutely sublime.

INGREDIENTS 1kg fresh rhubarb 170g sugar 1 tbsp of finely grated stem ginger 2 tbsp of stem ginger syrup or golden syrup if preferred For the crumble 250g plain flour 125g butter diced 50g sugar 1 tsp cinnamon

METHOD • Preheat oven to 190°c • Top and tail the rhubarb sticks and remove any stringy bits of skin • Cut the sticks roughly into 2.5cm chunks. Put them into a large ovenproof dish and sprinkle with sugar • Add the grated ginger on top and your syrup of choice • To make the crumble, sift the flour into a bowl and add the cinnamon. Add the butter and rub in with your fingertips until the mixture is like fine breadcrumbs. Mix in the sugar • Cover the rhubarb with the crumble and press down lightly • Bake for about 40 minutes until the crumble is golden brown – usually the rhubarb will come bubbling up at the sides Serve warm with cream, ice cream or custard

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

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RHUBARB, RHUBARB, RHUBARB! Whilst on my visit to Speke Hall, it wasn’t just the bluebells that had me spellbound. I was also fascinated by the Victorian kitchen garden where huge terracotta bells stood – used for the practice of growing and producing forced rhubarb. The method was dreamt up by the Victorians as a way of producing fruit when there was little else in store or growing in the garden. The technique basically involves covering the crowns of the plant to prevent light reaching them – which encourages, or forces, the plant to grow and form earlier than normal. This produces an early, highly prized tender crop, a speciality still sought after even today. Most major supermarkets stock it at this time of year but it’s great if you know someone who grows their own and can be persuaded to part with some of their precious crop.

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FILM

VIDEODYSSEY’S

MOVIE OF THE MONTH

Apocalypse Now Andy Johnson ventures deep into the heart of darkness with Francis Ford Coppola’s 1979 masterpiece

“Someday this war’s gonna end...” Which mask to wear today? Heroes wear masks. Demons wear masks. Everybody wears masks. Don’t forget you need one to enter your nearest supply store or place of worship. Madness comes in many forms. None more potent or terrifying than the grisly realities of war. Apocalypse Now explores the effects of mania and how bearing witness to horrific acts can change a person’s nature irrevocably. We follow Captain Willard, played with subtle aplomb by Martin Sheen, on a top secret mission to assassinate Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando), a renegade Army Special Forces officer accused of murder, presumed insane and beyond salvation. The opening sequence is a visually stunning piece of cinematography. We see Willard’s face upside down, transposed over a backdrop of flames, helicopters and carnage as he struggles to cope with a mental breakdown. Apocalypse Now is a masterwork in character studies. Coppola presents one fantastic personification of existential struggle after another. With the river journey becoming the connecting link. One character almost steals the show. Robert Duvall as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore. With an air of invincibility, oblivious to exploding bombs, he stands tall while the rest of his platoon cower from enemy fire. He lives to ride the waves of warfare. “If I say it’s safe to surf this beach, Captain, then it’s safe to surf this beach!” The moment when Kilgore rips off his shirt to reveal just an orange bib, ready to take the waves amidst Napalm bombs will stay with you long after the film has ended.

His appearance is beguiling and repulsive in equal measure. Watching Kilgore being left behind without his surfboard stings every time. Never have I wanted the movie’s narrative to break away and follow a different character so intently. A scene where Kilgore saves a Vietnamese baby was cut, much to the bemusement of Duvall. Who speaks painfully about it in interviews as he felt it showed a softer, more human side to the maniacal Lieutenant Colonel. There’s many famous faces in this film. If you’re watching with a first time viewer, you can have fun asking them to spot a young Lawrence Fishburne, battling with the harsh realities around him, long before any idea of taking a red pill. When Dennis Hopper appears as a tripped-out photographer, capturing the atrocity at the gates of Hell, with breezy optimism, it’s a welcome breath of comic relief. Behind the scenes Hopper took great delight in winding up Brando. So much so that the Easy Rider star had to be banished from set before Brando would appear. The journey along the river has swelled up enormous anticipation for Col Kurtz. Brando soaks it up and pours it over Willard, his surviving crewmates and the audience. Shining from the shadows. Just a pair of brooding eyes and

a ghostly face. He’s been expecting us. Reading poetry aloud and revealing how studying the Viet Cong’s warfare has driven him deranged. There is a flicker of tenderness, when Kurtz asks Willard where he’s from and recounts a day he spent sailing the Ohio River: “where heaven fell on earth in the form of gardenias”. If Willard wasn’t born in Toledo, he might not have been spared Kurtz’s wrath. This is the human condition laid bare. The need to connect, and the desire to reflect what we see in others. Fancy watching The recognition of Apocalypse Now the the same madness way nature intended? in Willard, is what Come see us at keeps him alive. Be kind, rewind!

Andy

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Two-bedroom apartment overlooking Canning Dock £1,365pcm

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FINISHED TO AN EXQUISITE STANDARD with top-of-the-range fixtures and fittings, this luxury apartment at The Copper House offers incredible views over the oldest surviving above-ground section of Liverpool’s world famous docks. An open-plan design, fully fitted kitchen with branded appliances, and two double bedrooms make this home the ideal base for exploring the city centre’s plethora of shops, bars and restaurants. A long list of desirable resident perks include secure parking, on-site gym, rooftop terrace, free high-speed Wi-Fi and secure postal collection via the building’s smartphone app. The Copper House is also pet friendly and its rooftop terrace boasts booth-style seating areas, fire pits, an outdoor covered kitchen, and a multi-use central space ideal for events and exercise. Managed by Greystar, The Copper House is a major build-to-rent development located on The Strand. The scheme is part of the INSTRATA Lifestyle Residences collection which includes properties in New York, Boston, Chicago, Texas, Washington DC, Los Angeles and London. For more information visit www.thecopperhouse.co.uk or call 07946 873002 YM Liverpool

ADVERTORIAL

Fit to fly? If you’re planning a summer holiday this year it’s likely that you’ll need a negative COVID-19 PCR test and a ‘fit to fly’ certificate before you can pack your bags. Professor Joseph, director of national COVID-19 testing firm, DAM Health, explains what the test involves and why they’re essential to stopping the spread of the disease as international travel resumes Why do people need to be tested before travelling overseas? There are a number of reasons

why people need to be tested before and after travelling overseas. Queues for check-in or security with other passengers and personnel means the risk of spreading COVID-19 in an airport or a terminal is high. The risk continues during the time spent on board in the cabin space for the duration of a flight. Finally, various governments around the world have stringent requirements for pre-flight negative test results as a means of avoiding the new cases of COVID-19 making their way into their country. Testing does not eliminate all risk, but when combined with other measures like wearing masks and social distancing, it can make travel safer by reducing the spread on planes, in airports, and at destinations.

Do you still need to get a ‘fit to fly’ certificate if you have been vaccinated? Whilst there has been

some recent data which suggests that vaccination can reduce the risk of transmission by almost half, that still means there is an almost 50% chance of someone transmitting the virus. The primary aim of the vaccine has always been to prepare the bodies of those that are vaccinated to be able to mount an immune response to COVID-19 that would help them develop a milder illness and prevent them from becoming so sick that they require hospitalisation. It therefore remains essential that people are tested regularly to be deemed ‘fit to fly’ to stop the spread of COVID-19 through international travel.

For those who haven’t been tested before, what does a DAM Health test involve? Testing by DAM

Health starts with the individual making an online booking for a PCR test. The person then arrives, is greeted by reception staff, fills out some documentation and has a quick, painless throat swab by one of our professional testers.

Right: DAM Health director, Professor Joseph; Below: PCR testing at a DAM Health site

How quickly can you get results with DAM Health’s rapid testing service? The test results are

incredibly quick and arrive before midnight on the day of the test, so people can get them the day before they travel.

How reliable are PCR test results? PCR tests are the gold standard test with the highest sensitivity. A test that is 100% sensitive means all individuals are correctly identified as having COVID-19 i.e. there are no false negatives. Our tests are 99.9% accurate.

Does DAM Health provide discounted rates for family or group testing? DAM Health is probably the

most competitive COVID-19 PCR testing service on the market. Our tests everywhere outside of London are £99. There is more information on pricing and locations on the website – www.damhealth.com

How long do you think COVID-19 testing will be around for? COVID-19 remains a global pandemic and

although things are looking positive for the UK with the roll out of the vaccine, there is a long way to go and testing will be an integral part of our lives for the foreseeable future.

Apart from being tested, what else can we do to stop the spread of the COVID-19 when we’re on holiday? Follow the simple but crucial rules of social distancing, hand washing and avoiding overcrowding. Spend more time in the great outdoors!

Why should people choose DAM Health for their pre-holiday PCR tests? Our COVID-19 PCR testing is

fast, reliable and provides same-day results. We provide ‘fit to fly’ certificates within hours of a negative test result which allows people to travel overseas. We’re also competitively priced and have convenient testing locations all over the UK.

FACTS FOR FLYING

Things you need to remember before going on holiday this summer... ■

■

You’ll need a negative PCR test and a ‘fit to fly’ certificate DAM Health clinics are located all over the UK and provide same-day results DAM Health’s COVID-19 testing costs £99 Book in advance at www.damhealth.com Once you’re tested – don’t forget your shades and sun cream!

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NEWS

SMARTPHONE APP FOR RESIDENTS OF NEW APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT Iliad Homes has developed a state-ofthe-art app exclusively for residents of its forthcoming development, The Eight THE APP allows residents of the 120 apartment complex to communicate directly with the management team and also includes neighbourhood watch style information bulletin and details on community and social events. Billed as “the future in build-to-rent residential developments”, The Eight’s connectivity app will provide its users with a forum to report defects or maintenance, have access to amenities and stay up-to-date with exclusive residents promotions. Iliad says it adds extra value to the development and will help

to “build a thriving community and allow a seamless relationship between residents and building managers”. The Eight is a contemporary new residential complex located between the Ropewalks and the Baltic Triangle. The development has so far seen strong uptake with a third of the building pre-let just six weeks after its launch. The scheme, which is due to open in July, comprises one, two and three-bedroom apartments

with private balconies. James Chan, general manager at Iliad Homes, says: “We are all tremendously excited to launch the smartphone app which will be pioneering for a residential development in Liverpool.

RWINVEST STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO CHARITABLE CAUSES The property investment firm has increased its support of charitable organisations across the North West RWINVEST, WHICH SPECIALISES IN BUY TO LET INVESTMENTS on prominent residential developments, has successfully delivered over £1 billion into the UK investment market since launching in 2004. The Liverpool-based company supports The Inclusive Hub, an organisation helping disadvantaged children around Kirkdale. Last year, it also worked alongside the well-known Liverpool chef and founder of Liverpool Independent Delivered Services, Dave Critchley, to donate the cost of 1,000 packed lunches to help feed struggling Merseyside families over the half-term break. Now, the firm is aiming to plant 45,000 trees in the Amazon rainforest. Julian Ramsden, company director, says: “The Amazon scheme will hopefully have a huge impact on the environment and help to support and rebuild one of the most important ecosystems in the world. “As a company, we are committed to making the world and our immediate community a better place so working with our charity partners is incredibly important.”

“The introduction of this technology to the day-to-day management of The Eight will significantly improve efficiency and increase the services we are able to offer to our residents, creating a much more enjoyable living experience.”

WIRRAL FIRE SAFETY FIRM BOLSTERS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM TO MEET SURGE IN DEMAND NW Fire Solutions has recruited a new general manager to cope with a rise in demand for its services THE WIRRAL-BASED FIRM has had a string of recent client wins including Zenith Property Management, Your Housing Group and Nottingham University. The company has recruited Alex McArthur, a consulting expert specialising in SME growth, to run the day-to-day operations of the business. Alex MacArthur, general manager at NW Fire Solutions, says: “I’m absolutely delighted to join the team at NW Fire Solutions. “My aim is to use my experience to propel NW Fire Solutions to the next level, providing stability to the company’s management whilst securing new business to elevate our growth plans.” YM Liverpool

HOME

PROPERTY INNSiDE Liverpool hotel to launch on Old Hall Street this summer Spain’s largest hotel group has revealed further details of its plans to open a 207-bed venue in the former Echo & Daily Post building THE NEW HOTEL from Meliá Hotels International will bring together a “destination” restaurant, panoramic sky bar, expansive conference & event space, state-of-the-art fitness gym, and upscale modern suites under one roof. Repurposing the former Echo and Daily Post building, Meliá says INNSiDE Liverpool will “breathe new life into one of the city’s most iconic structures”. Parts of the pre-existing site have been preserved, whilst “smart touches ensure it will deliver an exceptional experience for its guests”. The 207 rooms will feature a number of upgraded rooms for special occasions including 25 upgraded Studio Rooms, 26 Townhouse Suites and one Condo Suite complete with separate bedroom, living space and dining area. An open plan lobby “encourages guests to meet, mingle and unwind” before enjoying a meal in the

140-capacity destination restaurant. On the 17th floor, guests will discover the double heighted 360-degree sky bar, offering views over Liverpool and the River Mersey. Garry Fortune, cluster general manager, UK North at INNSiDE by Meliá, says: “The past 12 months has been exceptionally tough for so many, not least those in the hospitality industry, but we are thrilled to be launching our third UK INNSiDE by Meliá property in the heart of Liverpool this summer. “As a group, INNSiDE by Meliá has gone from strength to strength following the launch of our Manchester site in 2015 and the brand new INNSiDE Newcastle set to open this spring. With a further two sites in the pipeline, it has been gratifying to see the brand so well received as we strengthen our roots in prime locations in the North’s most diverse cultural hubs.”

Lidl ‘considering next steps’ after Wavertree’s Abbey Cinema awarded listed status

THE FORMER ‘PICTURE PALACE’ has now been listed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport at Grade II on advice by Historic England. Sarah Charlesworth, listing adviser at Historic England, says: “The Abbey is an increasingly rare survivor from the 1930s heyday of cinema, designed by the Liverpudlian architect Alfred Shennan. “The building’s striking internationally-influenced architecture and the many special features of its interior design, including its wooden mosaic flooring and shell-like ceiling domes, will now be protected for future generations. “The Abbey has proved to be versatile enough to serve a range of purposes since it closed as a cinema, so we hope that the owner and the local community will now come together to find a sustainable new use for this remarkable building.” In light of the announcement, a spokesperson for Lidl told YM Liverpool: “We are aware of Historic England’s decision and we are now considering next steps”. The new Lidl store would have a 1,654 sqm gross floor area, and include an in-store bakery, customer toilets and 69 car parking spaces including disabled, parent & child spaces and rapid electric vehicle charging spaces.

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IMAGE: RODHULLANDEMU/WIKICOMMONS

Supermarket chain had announced plans to demolish the local landmark and redevelop the site into a ‘spacious Lidl store’

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