Midas Man
Brian Epstein’s extraordinary life story comes to the silver screen
Ben Elton interview
Delhi House Cafe
Jon Atkinson on wine
Autumn fashion
October
Hello and welcome to October’s YM Liverpool!
Kicking things off I’m delighted to bring you our in-depth preview of a new film which charts the remarkable life and career of the great Brian Epstein. Midas Man peels back the curtain on the swinging ‘60s, revealing the triumphs, heartbreaks, and secrets of the man who changed the face of music forever. I spoke to director Joe Stephenson about the joys and challenges of finally bringing Brian’s story to the big screen.
We go from Brian to Ben for this month’s second big feature. Legendary stand-up comedian, actor and novelist Ben Elton brings his new show to the Philharmonic next month and he tells us why he’s ready to take on the existential threat of ‘authentic stupidity’ in a world obsessed with artificial intelligence.
Elsewhere, we shine the spotlight on a beautiful terraced home in Aigburth, the John Lewis interiors team reveals why red is the colour this autumn, and Will Carr visits the recently opened Delhi House Cafe at the Royal Albert Dock.
Plus our resident gardening guru Heather Marsh encourages us to ‘go nuts’ this month, Annie S shares her favourite coat and jacket selections, and Jon Atkinson explores a region of Italy renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wine heritage.
Until next time!
Editor Lawrence Saunders editor@ymliverpool.com
Design Marten Sealby
ADVERTISING Sales 0151 316 0210 sales@ymliverpool.com
DISTRIBUTION Enquiries 0151 316 0210
LAWRENCE SAUNDERS Editor
Golden touch
A new film set to be released this month explores the life of a man who struggled to find his place in the world while masterminding The Beatles’ meteoric rise, ultimately creating a blueprint for music artist management. We spoke with director Joe Stephenson about the joys and challenges of bringing Brian Epstein’s remarkable story to the big screen in Midas Man
words lawrence saunders
Afilm about Brian Epstein needs to be several things at once. On the one hand it needs to be a celebration of his achievements, dedication to his artists, and his generous nature. On the other it needs to not shy away from the things that caused him so much heartbreak, and what led to his accidental death.
It might have been tempting for Midas Man director Joe Stephenson to make a film solely about Brian’s time with The Beatles, though while they were clearly the leading success story, he cared deeply for so many of his artists.
It might also have been tempting to make a film about drugs, but Brian’s drug-taking was primarily practical, not hedonistic. Similarly, a film solely about his struggle finding a partner and being a gay man at a time it was illegal to be would be to let his sexuality define him when he refused to let it do so himself.
“I think one of the challenges of telling this story was trying to deal with some of the darker parts of Brian’s life but in a way that didn’t overwhelm his story,” says Joe.
“If you speak to anyone who knew him, or read any accounts about him, everybody just talks about how much of a lovely person he was, and how genuine and generous he was.
“As soon as you start going the road of focusing more on the
addiction, more on the stories of interactions with men at the docks that went badly, the more the film becomes something dark and gritty.
“The reality is that he kept his private life as separate as he could and it didn’t affect his work that much at all until later in his life. It’s not the memory that people have and you don’t want to tell his story in a way that makes people feel that that’s what his life was all about.
The addictions and other things were all put on him by society really. I wanted the film to be a celebration [of Brian]. It’s been an honour to be able to direct his moment in the sun.”
Shot on location in London, Liverpool, Southport, Blackpool and LA, Midas Man charts Brian’s life, from his formative years to wild, unprecedented global success and the ensuing chaos as he managed and promoted some of the biggest acts in the world.
The film explores Brian’s (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd) close relationships with his parents ‘Queenie’ (Emily Watson) and his father Harry (Eddie Marsan), his artistes The Beatles (Blake Richardson, Jonah Lees, Leo Harvey-Elledge, Campbell Wallace and Adam Lawrence), Cilla Black (Darci Shaw), his right hand man Alistair Stevens (Milo Parker), his loyal housekeeper Lonnie Edwards (Chukwuma Omambala) as well his troubled relationship with ‘Tex’ Ellington (Ed Speleers), his U.S business partner Nat Weiss (James Corrigan) and the iconic Ed Sullivan (Jay Leno).
Midas Man also introduces several important locations in Brian’s life, including his loving family home, the family’s furniture store, and the subsequent addition of the record shop NEMS. The production’s mantra for authenticity meant it was always going to film as much as possible throughout Liverpool, as well as in some of the actual venues that still exist today, from Liverpool’s historic docks which Brian frequented, to The Adelphi Hotel, a regular haunt of the Epstein family, and the iconic pub The Philharmonic Dining Rooms where Brian would often meet his artists.
“It was lovely going to the Philharmonic,” says Joe. “It’s such a stunning place anyway, and the fact that it’s somewhere Brian went with the boys made it so nice to be there. The docks were so impressive and quite fascinating as well. We did quite a bit of filming down there and it looks wonderful on camera. We had some fantastic locations.
amazing!’. It’s hard work making a film so it’s nice to feel like you’re doing something that’s in conjunction with a community, rather than invading a community.”
As you might expect given the film’s subject matter, music is at the very heart of Midas Man. Every aspect of the soundscape was considered to the last degree, from the live performances, the curation and selection of incidental music and the all-important score.
The film’s music supervisors Arnold Hattingh and Tom Stanford managed and produced all of the actors’ live performances under the direction of Alex Baranowski. ‘The Beatles’ spent several weeks rehearsing together at Pony Studios, London, including a special day in Studio 2, Abbey Road Studios. Each track performed needed to reflect the real band’s progression both in style and musical ability and be accurately representative of how they sounded at that stage in their careers.
“So much of Midas Man is about a passion for music and you want the actors involved to be passionate,” explains Joe. “Blake, for example, who plays Paul, is in a band. Jonah (John Lennon) also plays guitar and loves his music.
“They were very passionate about the live performances and we know people are going to be paying attention to small details so Blake had to learn to play the guitar the other way and Adam (Pete Best) had to practise a very particular type of drumming.
“When your subject is a group as big as The Beatles, there are people who are going to pay attention! Even when you’re not that person, you want to feel that there’s something authentic going on in front of you. We checked, checked and triple checked to make sure that all the details were right so that even the greatest Beatles’ fan is not going to be taken out of the story by a specific aspect.”
Brian remains the central focus of Midas Man however. While the world recognises him as the manager of the biggest and most influential band in pop music history, Joe hopes viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the real Brian and the complexities of his life.
We had so much support from the people of Liverpool. They were so respectful and excited that Brian’s story was being told.
“We had so much support from the people of Liverpool. When we were there, the people who were in and around the set were so respectful and excited that Brian’s story was being told. You don’t tend to get that with films. People were like: ‘This is about Brian? That’s
“I’d like people to watch this film and walk out feeling that they have met Brian, and know how wonderful he was, and how staggering his achievements were,” he says.
“I’d also like people to acknowledge that ultimately Brian’s troubles were really to do with the fact that he was being forced into the shadows. Society was saying that the way he was and who he loved was illegal.
“Brian was so passionate about his work and everything that he did, it’s such a shame that he wasn’t able to find that love at home, find a partner and find some peace in his private life but thank goodness he did what he did when he was here.
“The Beatles needed Brian, and he needed them ultimately. That’s hopefully what the end feeling of the film is, that they needed each other.”
Midas Man premieres at FACT Liverpool on 29 October and will be available to stream on Amazon Prime Video from 30 October
Live performances from ‘The Beatles’ feature prominently in Midas Man
Pioneering Big Sister programme set to empower girls in Liverpool
Award-winning mentoring initiative launches at St Julie’s Catholic High School
GIRLS OUT LOUD, the award-winning social enterprise dedicated to empowering teenage girls, has launched its flagship Big Sister mentoring programme in Liverpool for the first time.
The expansion into Merseyside follows the non-profit’s success throughout the North West, where it has empowered 30,000 girls across more than 80 schools during its 14 years of operation.
The Big Sister programme is now set to inspire and uplift a new generation of young girls at St Julie’s Catholic High School in Woolton.
The programme will pair 20 female volunteer role models with 12- to 13-year-old girls over the course of 12 months. Meeting once a month in a structured and supportive school environment, each mentor will provide personalised guidance, share inspirational life stories, and help the young girls unlock their potential, amplify their voices and make better life choices.
Founded in 2009 by entrepreneur and female champion Jane Kenyon, Girls Out Loud aims to instil confidence, emotional resilience and a positive self-image in teenage girls through early intervention programmes. Girls Out Loud’s work helps Year 8 girls navigate their
challenging landscape, equipping them with the tools to thrive and lead successful lives.
Jane says:
“We’re incredibly proud to bring our successful Big Sister programme to St Julie’s Catholic High School.
“For us, this is more than just another step in our journey – it’s a pivotal moment in expanding our reach across the North West and making a meaningful impact on the lives of young girls in Liverpool, guiding them to reach their true potential.”
Kate McCourt, headteacher at St Julie’s Catholic High School, adds: “We want to bring together women with expertise and from various different professions to ensure that our girls have a mentor that can really help empower them, developing their self-esteem and confidence, and to really open doors for their future as they think about different careers they may not normally have thought about.”
Primary school wants to become ‘number one choice for families’
St Nicholas Catholic Academy aims to enhance its extracurricular and pupil leadership offerings
A PRIMARY SCHOOL LOCATED AT THE CENTRE of two Liverpool university campuses hopes to become the “number one choice for families”.
St Nicholas Catholic Academy on Orthes Street has committed to improving its extracurricular, enrichment and pupil leadership offerings in 2024, and wants its children to benefit from “as many opportunities as possible”.
Dotty, head girl at St Nicholas’, says: “The thing I most like about St Nicholas’ is the people – they are so willing to help each other, and they are supportive. The teachers are also great and hardworking.”
Amaar, head boy at St Nicholas’, adds: “I am really looking forward to the residential trip to Colomendy in May, and I like the fact that I will get the chance to meet with visitors to the school, give tours and make everyone feel that they are welcome and belong.”
St Nicholas’ is part of the St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (MAT) which includes five primary and four secondary academies across the Liverpool City Region.
St Joseph Catholic MAT works in partnership with the Archdiocese of Liverpool, the Diocese of Shrewsbury and the Diocese of Chester.
The Trust was set up to provide “transformative educational opportunities” for children in the north west of England. One of the first Catholic schools in Liverpool, St Nicholas’ also works in collaboration with a local network of schools through DGT (Dingle, Granby & Toxteth Collaborative).
PC&Co expands conveyancing team
Liverpool-based law firm responds to surge in workload with key hire
PAUL CROWLEY & CO has announced the appointment of Millie Hayes to its conveyancing department.
The strategic hire is in response to the increased volume of work the team has been experiencing.
Jenna Gall, head of conveyancing, says: “Millie will be a valuable asset to our property team, enhancing our ability to manage the growing demand and continue providing exceptional service to our clients.
“As the property market evolves, having a strong and capable team is crucial. Millie’s addition not only boosts our capacity but also brings fresh perspectives and new energy to the department.”
Millie’s recruitment underlines PC&Co’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service and ensuring that its clients’ needs are met efficiently and effectively. The conveyancing team is confident that Millie’s assistance will contribute significantly to its ongoing success and help it navigate the complexities of the property market with greater ease.
PC&Co remains dedicated to investing in talented professionals who can uphold their reputation for excellence. Millie continues a family tradition, spanning two generations, by joining her father Mark and two sisters Elle and Annie, who are also employed at the firm.
With Millie on board, the conveyancing team is well-equipped to handle the increasing workload and continue delivering exceptional legal services to their clients. The team eagerly anticipates the positive impact Millie will have on its operations and client satisfaction.
The Renters’ Rights Bill – A guide for landlords and tenants
In September 2024, the Labour Government introduced the Renters’ Rights Bill to Parliament, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at overhauling the rental market in England. This Bill proposes significant changes which will impact both landlords and tenants, aiming to create a fairer and more balanced rental sector. Emma Stirzaker takes a detailed look at what the Bill entails and how we can help landlords navigate these changes
Awaab’s Law
The tragic case of Awaab Ishak, a young boy who died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s rented home, has underscored the urgent need for stronger tenant protections and has been a driving force behind the push for reforms like the Renters’ Rights Bill. Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard will be extended to the private rental sector, which will provide strict deadlines and regulations for landlords to adhere to when responding to repairs, and highlights the critical importance of ensuring safe and healthy living conditions for all tenants.
Key changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill
• Abolition of Section 21 ‘No-fault’ evictions – Landlords will require reasonable grounds to evict tenants in all cases.
• Shift to periodic tenancies – All tenancies will automatically become periodic.
• Regulation of rent increases – Rent increases will now be strictly regulated.
• Enhanced tenant rights – Tenants will gain the right to request to keep pets and make reasonable alterations to the property.
Implications for Landlords
These changes bring about a new landscape for landlords, requiring them to adapt their practices and policies. The abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions requires landlords to have clear, documented reasons for evicting tenants, such as rent arrears or property damage, and aims to reduce tenant fears of retaliatory or ‘revenge’ evictions.
The shift to periodic tenancies necessitates a more flexible approach to lease agreements whilst reducing the pressure to frequently renew fixed-term tenancies. For landlords, this means adjusting to a new ‘norm’ where tenancies are more flexible.
Regulated rent increases mean landlords must be prepared to justify any rent adjustments, ensuring they are in line with market rates and not perceived as exploitative.
Additionally, accommodating tenant requests for pets and property alterations will require a more collaborative relationship between landlords and tenants. The ability for tenants to personalise the property will make their rented properties feel more like ‘home’.
How Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors
can help
Navigating these changes can be challenging, but Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors’ Private Landlord Legal Services team is here to assist.
• Providing legal advice
The team offers expert guidance on complying with the new regulations, helping landlords understand their rights and responsibilities under the Bill. This includes advice on handling evictions, rent increases and tenant requests.
• Drafting and reviewing tenancy agreements
Ensuring tenancy agreements are upto-date and compliant with new laws is crucial. Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors can draft and review agreements to reflect the latest legal requirements, protecting
landlords from potential disputes.
• Dispute resolution In the event of a dispute, whether related to evictions, rent increases, or tenant rights, our legal team can provide support and representation. Their expertise in Landlord Tenant Law ensures that disputes are resolved efficiently and justly.
• Ongoing support
The legal landscape is constantly evolving, and staying informed is essential. Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors offer ongoing support and updates on legal changes, ensuring landlords remain compliant and well-informed.
Conclusion
The Renters’ Rights Bill represents a significant shift in the rental market, aiming to create a more equitable environment for tenants whilst posing new challenges for landlords. By understanding these changes and seeking expert legal advice from Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors, landlords can navigate this new landscape with confidence and ensure their practices are fair, compliant, and tenant-friendly.
Emma Stirzaker
Private Landlord Legal Services, Paul Crowley & Co
Delhi House Cafe
After opening its doors in Manchester in 2020, Delhi House Cafe quickly established itself as one of the city’s must-try restaurants for lovers of authentic Indian cuisine. Last month, the family-run eatery branched out to Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, and I couldn’t wait to sample some of the dishes.
Walking into Delhi House, I’ll admit to feeling slightly awkward. The staff were welcoming to an unheard-of degree. This remarkable level of courtesy extends to the menu. The well-presented and varied vegan and gluten-free selections ensure that there is something for everyone. We were seated by Beth, our exceptional server, who, after confirming our lack of dietary requirements, took our order.
The meal started with a bang as I bit into the gunpowder-spiced Tandoori Lamb Chops (£15.95). Though sadly not seasoned with actual gunpowder, the heat from the chillies could have fooled me. It gave the dish an impressive kick and depth of flavour which was complimented by a bed of beetroot
The
Roast Chicken
Sliders are the most beautifully presented fireworks you’ll ever eat –best sampled by hardcore spice fans only, though.
chutney and Granny Smith slaw. My only complaint was that the chops were slightly wanting of meat. However, this was more than made up for with my main.
The Roast Chicken Sliders (£10.95) are the most beautifully presented fireworks you’ll ever eat. Hiding a deadly secret among the delicious mint chutney and Fenugreek mayo, the two small innocuous brioche buns exploded in my mouth. Though superb, this dish is best sampled by hardcore spice fans only. Thankfully, the other dishes are done to your own specification and my partner began with a mild I.S.B.T Chicken Curry (£11.45).
The creamy curry is apparently a ‘bus terminal favourite’ and was recommended with the Buttered naan (£3.50), and who are we to argue with the experts? The naan tasted fresh and crisp and paired beautifully with the dish.
The standout of the evening in my opinion however was Old Delhi’s Lamb Nihari (£17.45), a staple dish of Indian royalty. Enriched with 32 different ingredients, the amount of effort and attention to detail was astounding. The symphony of flavours blended perfectly and different notes were brought to the fore with every bite. The Moti roti (£4.50), a gigantic slab of exquisitely soft bread, was recommended with this dish and was the perfect accompaniment.
For dessert I ordered the Gulab Jamun Sundai (£6.95), having no idea what it was. I asked Beth and, with a knowing smile, she said it was “good”. A couple of scoops of
delicious vanilla ice cream appeared within a crispy, floral waffle cone. The Gulab Jamun, a small dough ball, nestled casually.
With its faint floral aroma from a rose syrup and subtle spiciness deriving from cardamom, “good” had been the understatement of the century.
The Crackling Chocolate Brownie (£6.95) was far simpler. A scoop of salted caramel ice cream sitting atop a tender cake. However the addition of the sprinkled popping candy and drizzling syrup made this dish the most decadent dessert I’d enjoyed in a while. With an atmosphere as warm and as interesting as the flavours, and with service that is second to none, I can’t recommend Delhi House Cafe highly enough. Stop what you’re doing and go now!
By Will Carr | Indian | ££ | Unit 2b, Britannia Pavilion, Royal Albert Dock, L3 4AD
See yourself through to spring with a coat or jacket from Annie S’s stylish selection
Faux fur jacket with lapel collar
Long felt texture coat
Pull&Bear
£69.99
Animal print padded jacket
Zara
£35.99
£69.99
Dropshoulder coat
Bershka
£59.99
£69.99
H&M
£44.99
Bershka
£109
Collared jersey jacket
H&M
£54.99
Trench-look jacket
Long faux fur coat
Long faux fur coat
Bershka
Faux suede trench coat
Bershka
Immaculate threebed terrace in the heart of Aigburth
£375,000
SITUATED WITHIN THE HIGHLY DESIRABLE suburb of Aigburth, this beautifully-finished threebedroom mid-terraced home is perfect for families and professionals alike.
The property itself briefly comprises a welcoming reception hall offering access to a handy downstairs WC, an attractive formal lounge and stunning contemporary fitted and extended breakfast kitchen area with bi-folding doors leading onto a rear town garden boasting a south-facing aspect. On the first floor there are three well-proportioned and presented bedrooms and a modern family bathroom.
The immediate area is served by a variety of shops, bars and restaurants. Popular L17 haunts AMICI, Space Coffee and Sakara are all within walking distance. For families, the property is close to several highly-regarded schools including Sudley Primary and St. Margaret’s Church of England Academy.
Nearby recreational space is also in abundance with Otterspool Promenade and the historic Sudley House easily reachable on foot.
Public transport services are readily available with regular bus services along Aigburth Road and Aigburth Railway station situated nearby.
For more information about this property call Find Your Eden on 0151 312 8288 or email hello@findyoureden.net
Pleasures of Piemonte
Jon Atkinson explores a region of Italy renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wine heritage
TRANSLATING TO ‘AT THE FOOT OF THE MOUNTAINS’ (well it does share a border with Switzerland!), the Piemonte region is located in the northwest of Italy and is the country’s second-largest region, after Sicily. As with pretty much all 20 of the Italian regions, there is a strong, well-established wine-making heritage here. Although it is the Nebbiolo-based reds of Barolo and Barbaresco that inevitably hog the limelight, there are some excellent whites and indeed other reds grown here.
Like most Italian wine regions, Piemonte boasts spectacular scenery, and just an hour’s drive south of Turin will take you to the heart of the wine-growing area. From the UK, Milan is probably more accessible and less than a two-hour drive. The towns of Alba and Asti, only half an hour apart, are regarded as the most significant in terms of wine
production, with the former a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for wine (obviously) but also white and black truffles and hazelnuts. It is also home to a well-known confectioner by the name of Ferrero!
I’m not sure that there is any part of Italy that doesn’t have a strong and well-established food and wine culture and Piemonte has a fine one. I pride myself on having a ‘healthy’ appetite, at least I did before attending a Piemontese banquet! There were 14 courses, and when I say ‘courses,’ I don’t mean ‘taster menu’ portions! It was magnificent, but I had to admit defeat, although I like to think I didn’t go down without a fight! Dishes such as Agnolotti del Plin, Vitello Tonnato and Brasato al Barolo manage to combine simplicity with superb flavours and textures and inevitably paired beautifully with a plethora of local wines, on which note…
Langhe Bianco ‘150 + 1’ Casali del Barone 2023 (13%) On the face of things, Langhe Bianco is a relatively modest DOC, but this is rather lovely. A blend of 90% unoaked Chardonnay with 10% of the indigenous Arneis variety. The fermentation is temperature controlled to help retain the delicate aromatic properties and the wine is aged for two months on the lees. Very pale in appearance with fresh and fragrant aromas of white flowers, Camomile and a hint of Anise with a lick of salinity. Crisp and dry with good acidity and a tangy, pithy edge with an almost chalky texture with a fairly long, tart cooking apple finish. £11.25
Colli Tortonesi Barbera Superiore Cantine Volpi 2022 (14%) Colli Tortonesi is a large DOC that stretches from Langhe all the way to the border with Lombardy. Historically, it is best known for growing Cortesi (see below) although this has been overtaken by Timorasso more recently, whilst Barbera is the most popular and widely planted red variety. Cantine Volpi was established in 1914 essentially as a ‘tavern’ but has grown exponentially and now has the fourth and fifth generations of the Volpi family at its helm. Medium deep, ruby-red with quite a perfumed yet savoury nose with notes of smoky bacon, Sorrell, leather and five spice. In the mouth it is very juicy, meaty and medium-bodied with chalky tannins and savoury acidity. £12.95
Gavi ‘150 + 1’ Casali del Barone 2023 (13%) Considered the jewel in the crown of the white wines of Piemonte, Gavi is made exclusively from the highly acidic, late-ripening Cortese grape. There are 13 communes in Alessandria that can produce Gavi, one of which is called Gavi, and wine made from vineyards within can be labelled as ‘Gavi di Gavi’. As with the Langhe Bianco, this is a collaboration between Bodegas Schenk and the Vallebelbo Cooperative, with all wines being made under the watchful eye of chief oenologist Daniele Ress. Their Gavi is typically dry, fresh and mineral, making an excellent aperitif, but it really comes into its own when accompanying seafood. £12.25
Langhe Nebbiolo Pio Cesare 2020 (14%) Established in 1881 by Cesare Pio, Pio Cesare (PC) is one of the ‘elder statesmen’ of Langhe growers and is the only one still based within the town of Alba. The grapes for their Langhe Nebbiolo come from estate vineyards in Diano d’Alba, La Morra and in small amounts from the classic Barolo DOCG. Translucent garnet with a brick-red rim, the nose is slightly ethereal with violets, sour red fruit and old leather with a hint of smoky bacon. A youthful palate with firm tannins and juicy acidity, medium-full bodied with flavours of sandalwood, Sorrel and liquorice. £31.50
OFFER: QUOTE “YM LIVERPOOL 10” IN OUR SHOP TO GET A 10% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR WINE PURCHASE*
Transformational plans for former Littlewoods building given green light
Littlewoods Project will include two film and TV studios, as well as spaces for offices, workshops and an education facility
PLANS TO TRANSFORM the former Littlewoods building into a TV and film campus have been approved by Liverpool City Council.
Capital&Centric’s ambitious proposals for the Edge Lane site were given the go-ahead by the local authority’s planning committee on 1 October.
Subject to the next tranche of funding being agreed, council approval will kick start the main restoration works, including two new 20,000 sq ft studios for big-budget productions, as well as spaces for offices, workshops, studio support facilities and an education facility.
The site will now be opened up and made accessible to surrounding communities. The former canteen which was housed in a barrel-vaulted hangar is to be transformed into a multi-purpose screening and performance zone, which will be for the use
of occupiers on site, and then open up to the public out of hours. It’ll feature five small format cinema screens, an outdoor performance space and a permanent food hall.
John Moffat, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, says: “This is a huge moment for Littlewoods and for the city as we now have the green light to deliver the Hollywood of the North.
“Liverpool already has a reputation as a world-class filming destination. The Littlewoods Project will take it to the next level, providing much-needed indoor studio space and support facilities.
“You can’t underestimate what this means for local people – me among them – not only seeing this iconic building brought back to life, but bolstering the city’s creative credentials and creating jobs and careers for
BreezeMove to sponsor YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards category
Liverpool-based proptech company aims to smooth the process of buying and selling by connecting all parties on one platform
PROPTECH SOLUTION BREEZEMOVE will sponsor the prestigious ‘Residential Property Agency of the Year’ category at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024.
Started by two local developers who were frustrated with the “archaic” process of buying and selling property, BreezeMove accelerates transactions by connecting buyers, sellers, solicitors and estate agents under one digital roof.
BreezeMove not only provides all parties with live 24/7 access to information of the stage of each transaction, with all elements time stamped to completion, but also provides a dedicated team driving the sales process through to completion. Working alongside its innovative technology, BreezeMove is able to deliver fantastic results for estate agents and their clients.
BreezeMove has scaled rapidly since launching in 2021 and now operates through the UK, delivering on average a 50% reduction in national completion timescales, reducing fall through rates by 80%, and providing estate agents with additional revenue whilst reducing their overheads.
Taking place at Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre on 28 November, the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024
generations. It’s the moment everyone’s been waiting for.”
Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram adds: “The transformation of the Littlewoods building into a world-class, cross-sector film, TV and creative campus is a game-changer for the Liverpool City Region. It’s a testament to our growing reputation as a centre for creativity and innovation.”
The planned new sound stages will take around a year to be built and become operational. The programme for repurposing the existing building is longer due to the complexity of dealing with the existing structures.
It is anticipated that the Littlewoods Project will bring around 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs into the region’s creative sector.
will see industry representatives from across the Liverpool City Region gather under one roof to reflect on another 12 months of achievements.
During November’s ceremony, renowned UK property pioneer Hugh Frost will take part in a special Q&A with YM Liverpool editor Lawrence Saunders.
Frost, whose Beetham Organisation is responsible for a string of landmark developments in Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham, will discuss transformational proposals for the city’s King Edward Triangle industrial estate, whilst reflecting on his 30+ year career in the property industry.
BreezeMove’s Phil Melia and Karl Winters (inset)
Leading lights from the Liverpool City Region’s property and business sectors will gather at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Thursday 28 November 2024 to reflect on another 12 months of achievements For details about tables and sponsorship opportunities, call 0151 316 0210 or email awards@ymliverpool.com
Rebel Red
Add a touch of the power colour to your interiors this autumn
THE COLOUR RED PACKS A PUNCH. From finding the perfect shade for your lips to adding presence to your wardrobe, red has always been seen as a bold statement. This autumn, it’s time to add hints of this rebel shade to your interiors. Are you ready for a little edge?
We’re not suggesting you start splashing red paint on your walls, ceiling and floors, but a newly coined TikTok styling trend ‘unexpected red theory’ does what it says on the tin: adds an item in a vibrant shade of red – be it big or small – to an otherwise neutral room in order to make it pop and transform the space into an interiors masterpiece.
It can be as simple as a red lamp, rug or throw, a maroon painted window trim or brick red dining chairs against your dark wooden table to bring a new energy and focal point to your room. Here’s a selection of our favourite shades, from maroons and burgundy to really red lacquer.
Bobbin Floor Lamp Base
Candy Stripe
Bobbin
Spindle Dining Chair, Set of 2
Authenticly
FUNNY
A hugely successful stand-up comedian, actor and novelist, Ben Elton has been an influential creative force behind some of the UK’s most iconic sitcoms, working with the likes of Rowan Atkinson and Richard Curtis. Next month, he brings his new show to the Philharmonic Hall and is ready to take on the existential threat of Authentic Stupidity in a world obsessed with artificial intelligence
Ben Elton’s always had a lot to say. You don’t write countless sitcoms (including Upstart Crow, The Thin Blue Line, The Young Ones and Blackadder), pen 16 novels, four West End plays and four musicals (including Queen’s We Will Rock You) if you’re not an ideas guy.
And it’s fresh ideas which have always driven his groundbreaking stand-up comedy routines, plenty of which will be being explored in his brand new stand-up tour – his first since 2019. The show’s called Authentic Stupidity, and it’s all about the ridiculous things we humans do and think.
“The tour title is a little joke about how we’re all saying that artificial intelligence is this great threat to humanity, which of course it is, but I reckon the biggest threat is actually Authentic Stupidity! Never mind AI, let’s start by worrying about AS! But really all my tours could have been called Authentic Stupidity, because they’re always comic explorations of the essential absurdity of existence. I think all good comedy is,” explains Ben.
“I’ve always done that in my routines. Sharing my own fears and joys and exasperations. Just being as funny as I can about the shit that’s on my mind.
“Every part of my comedy is an exploration of human inadequacy,” he says, using Blackadder as one of his earliest examples.
might need help, that you aren’t necessarily the thing you want to be or that people expect you to be. All these things that we used to hide are coming out more.”
There are, of course, aspects of modern life that have emphatically not improved, in Ben’s opinion. And while insisting he’s not a luddite, he’s acutely aware of where technology is going wrong.
“Personally, I would rather the internet wasn’t around because, although it’s ingenious and useful, it’s destroying democracy as we speak because we’re too stupid to tell the difference between verifiable facts and undiluted arse porridge,” he says.
“And now we’ve invented AI, I mean how stupid is that? If a terrorist went on television and said, ‘We’ve come up with a machine that will literally make human beings redundant’, we’d send in MI5! We’d think this is a genuinely existential threat to the future of humanity. But because this is a bunch of tech bros and billionaires in California, we’re all just going, ‘Oh well, apparently it’s going to be able to write new Beatles’ songs’.”
Every part of my comedy is an exploration of human inadequacy. The world would probably be a lot nicer and safer if we all embraced our inner Baldrick!
“Blackadder thinks he’s so clever but his vanity, his jealousy and his ambition screw him every time. We need to accept that we are not everything and that we don’t know everything. If we did that I think we’d do less harm to ourselves and to the planet. The world would probably be a lot nicer and safer if we all embraced our inner Baldrick!”
That’s not to say this is all misanthropy, though. “In some ways, the world is better now. I think younger people have started to accept that weakness is OK; that weakness is merely an acknowledgement that you
So is he looking forward to his new tour? “Absolutely. There’s just so much to talk about. Finding the funny has never been more important”.
Interestingly, Ben doesn’t think of himself as being a great comic performer; for him it’s all about his writing, which he’s repeatedly proven himself to be great at, ever since the cult sitcom The Young Ones hit BBC Two in 1982.
“Look, I think I can be pretty funny in my delivery but it would be nothing without the material. I’m not a natural clown who can get a laugh just by pulling a face.”
He recalls taking his wife and then young children to the home of pal Rowan Atkinson, with whom he worked on Blackadder, The Thin Blue Line and Mr. Bean
“Rowan was handing out the cakes and the cat was lurking nearby and appeared about to pounce. Rowan removed the fondant fancies and then without any knowledge of doing it, he did a little mime of an outraged cat,” he says. “For a moment, he inhabited the creature in front of him and the kids and us fell about. It was perfect. I couldn’t do that. I could be funny in conversation, but my funny bones are all about the words.”
Ben’s doing himself down a bit though: he did a cracking job hosting the one-off revival of Friday Night Live – the variety showcase of comic talent – for Channel 4 in 2022. The show wouldn’t have won the Bafta against some stiff competition if he wasn’t a great performer. The Guardian described his set as “bracingly topical and outspoken”, while The Times said: “Elton has still got it, oh yes he has.”
It’s fascinating learning how a comedian’s early forays into stand-up can shape their persona. Those accustomed to today’s (relatively) polite audiences would blanche at the often-brutal atmosphere of the Comedy Store in London, where Ben – along with the likes of Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, French & Saunders, and Jo Brand – cut his teeth.
“Back then it was two shows a night, the early one at 10pm, then one at midnight, in a strip club in Soho. It was 1981, Brixton was in flames, Thatcher was starting her 10-year war on society and sometimes audiences were tense and angry,” he explains.
“People weren’t tuned into what we now call alternative comedy, which I would
If you’re on stage trying to make a point, to deliver a complicated idea using a riff that’ll reach a satisfying conclusion, you need people to listen. How on earth do you do that with some drunk being authentically stupid?
describe as the comedy of ideas, where you use your own principles and beliefs to form your own comedy. That’s certainly what I did. People were used to comedians who told jokes and part of the joke might be about dealing with hecklers, so there was this idea that that was what a comic did – they dealt with hecklers. I hate hecklers. I’ve never heard a witty heckle. They’re mythical.”
If you’re on stage trying to make a point, to deliver a complicated idea using a riff that’ll reach a satisfying conclusion, you need people to listen. How on earth do you do that with some drunk being authentically stupid?
“I developed what was probably an overly combative style just to shut the idiots down” says Ben. “It took me a long time to get out of the shadow of the gong.”
But over a lifetime of hugely successful stand up he’s learnt to have faith in audiences’ – partly because they’re now paying to see him specifically, unlike in those days when they’d show up and be presented with a line-up of unknowns. “I learnt not to trust them, thinking that, if I paused, someone would shout out,” he says. “I can pause a little bit now, but I still don’t pause much because I’ve just got too much to say.”
Ben Elton plays the Philharmonic Hall on Sunday 3 November
Hangar 34 launches packed schedule of live music and comedy
Baltic Triangle venue has a diverse line-up of shows planned for coming months
HANGAR 34 HAS ANNOUNCED an eclectic season of live music and comedy taking place throughout autumn and winter.
Kicking things off on 19 October, Alive – A Tribute to Pearl Jam will be delivering all the classic Seattle grunge vibes, followed by Letz Zep on 26 October, who will be channelling the iconic sound of Led Zeppelin.
November brings even more variety to the Greenland Street venue. On 1 November, Creedence Clearwater Review will revisit the roots of swamp rock. For comedy fans, Jason Byrne performs on 2 November. Stone Foundation steps up with their blend of modern soul on 9 November. Then, on 14 November, Ultimate Green Day + Punk Rock 101 will take you through Green Day’s hits and punk classics.
On 23 November, THE SKIDS mark 45 years of ‘Days in Europa’, and 28 November sees acclaimed musicians Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason bringing their unique cello and piano talents to the
venue. Closing out the month, Scottish pop duo Hue and Cry perform on 29 November, and indie favourites The House of Love follow on 30 November.
December has even more to offer, starting with The Lancashire Hotpots on 7 December for a night of comedic folk. The Style Councillors hit the stage on 14 December to celebrate the 40th anniversary of ‘Shout to the Top!’. Wrapping up the year, Icicle Works go acoustic on 21 December, before the best tribute to country superstar Luke Combs arrives on 22 December.
City to stage landmark climate action concerts
‘Act
1.5 presents…’ will see a weekend of live music and events at the M&S Bank Arena
Montirex opens first store at Liverpool ONE
The local sportswear brand was founded by best friends Daniel Yuen and Kieran Riddell-Austin
TECHNICAL OUTDOOR AND SPORTSWEAR RETAILER, Montirex, has opened its debut bricks and mortar unit at Liverpool ONE, marking the brand’s first standalone pop-up store.
The launch of the much-anticipated pop-up has seen the brand take on a 3,000 sq ft space on the lower level of South John Street, with an interior that reflects its sporting roots, technical fabrics and the importance of community to the brand.
The debut activation boasts a range of in-store exclusives, as well as the brand’s popular collection of sportswear and outdoor wear, spanning across menswear, womenswear, kids and infant wear, and accessories. Montirex also brings with it the promise of regular events that cater to the wider community and visits from sponsored athletes.
Rob Deacon, director of asset management at Grosvenor, says: “It is incredibly rewarding to be able to expand and enhance Montirex’s offering at Liverpool ONE.
“Given the brand’s Liverpudlian roots and the huge success they have enjoyed with us to date, the power of places in connecting brands with people cannot be underestimated and their debut standalone pop-up provides our customers with the invaluable variety, rarity and experience we seek from short-term activations.”
Daniel Yuen, co-founder of Montirex, adds: “We celebrated our fifth anniversary earlier this year and cannot think of a better way to mark the occasion than opening our first ever physical store in our home city.”
LIVERPOOL IS TO HOST a landmark series of concerts in celebration of being named the world’s first ‘UN Accelerator City’ for climate action.
‘Act 1.5 presents…’ will see a weekend of live music and events, from 28-30 November, at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena, featuring Massive Attack, IDLES and Nile Rodgers.
In August, Act 1.5 hosted its first large-scale climate action accelerator in Bristol that sought to completely reimagine how music events can be staged.
Building on the methods first trialled in Bristol, and continuing its partnership with clean energy provider Ecotricity, ‘Act 1.5 presents…’ will test, operate and adapt a range of measures to dramatically reduce the level of carbon emissions and air pollution that would usually be produced at an event of this scale. These include:
• An entire event site powered entirely by 100% renewable energy
• A public transport incentive initiative in partnership with Merseytravel, Avanti West Coast and Trans Pennine Express that will generate a vital reduction in audience travel emissions
• A meat free arena
• 100% zero to landfill waste removal
• ‘Plug & Play’ single technical set up shared by each act
• Show to end earlier than standard at 10pm to allow audiences to use public transport to get home
Nile Rodgers says: “Some of the greatest CHIC shows have taken place in Liverpool so I’m thrilled that we are bringing our funk back to the city.”
Coleen Rooney takes ambassadorial role at Applied Nutrition
In a major new collaboration, Coleen Rooney has been named as the lead female ambassador for Applied Nutrition, a global brand in nutrition and wellness products.
The TV personality unveiled a giant billboard in central London recently to promote her new position at the Liverpool-based company.
Coleen will be actively promoting a range of Applied Nutrition’s products including collagens, diet whey protein, protein bars plus vitamins and minerals, which she uses to support her health and wellness.
Coleen says: “Balancing my role as a mum and managing my personal life can be challenging, but it’s important for me to stay healthy and energised.
“I’ve always taken an interest in looking after myself and Applied Nutrition has impressed me because of the quality of their products. The collagen and the diet
whey protein make a real difference and something I’m using whether at home, in the gym or enjoying my regular Reformer pilates sessions.
“Applied Nutrition is a leading global business founded in Liverpool and I am delighted to be working with them. I actually grew up 10 minutes from their manufacturing facility, so it was a nobrainer for me and feels like a perfect partnership. I’m excited to share their amazing products with others who are striving for a healthier lifestyle.”
By partnering with Coleen, Applied Nutrition aims to highlight the importance of nutrition and wellness, showing how its
products can seamlessly fit into even the busiest of schedules.
Steven Granite, COO at Applied Nutrition, adds: “Coleen’s passion for health and wellness, coupled with her busy lifestyle, makes her the perfect fit for our brand.
“We are thrilled to have her on board as our ambassador and look forward to seeing how she will inspire others to embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle with our products.”
Applied Nutrition products are available in more than 80 countries and at wellknown UK retailers such as Holland & Barrett, ASDA, Tesco and Superdrug.
“I am delighted to be working with Applied Nutrition. It was a no-brainer for me and feels like a perfect partnership.”
TV personality grew up 10 minutes from the sport supplements firm’s manufacturing facility in Kirkby
Boozy autumn pudding
If you don’t have sloe or damson gin, use gin mixed with crème de cassis. As frozen fruit is available all year round – and you can’t tell the difference if it’s cooked anyway – this is a great option for autumn and winter.
COURSE Dessert
PREP TIME 15 minutes
COOKING TIME 25 minutes
TOTAL TIME 40 minutes
SERVES 8
METHOD
INGREDIENTS
• 350g plums, stoned
• 200g apples
• 180g pears
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
1 Cut the plums into quarters. Peel and core the apples and pears (leave unpeeled if you prefer), cut the flesh into chunks and toss in a bowl with the lemon juice. If cooking the fruit immediately you don’t need to toss them in lemon juice.
2 Put the plums, apples and pears into a saucepan with 4 tbsp gin. Add half the sugar and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes. Stir and make sure the mixture is moist enough.
3 Add the berries and currants and remaining sugar, then cook for 10-15 minutes more. The mixture should be tender with the apples and pears still holding their shape, and not totally
• 8 tbsp damson or sloe gin, (more if liked)
• 185g caster sugar
• 500g mixed berries and currants (raspberries, blackberries, redcurrants and blackcurrants), frozen or fresh
• 350g thickly sliced white bread
• Extra thick double cream, to serve
collapsed. Set a large sieve over another saucepan and spoon the fruit into it, collecting the juice. Transfer the cooked fruit to a bowl. Bring the collected juice to a simmer and reduce until you have about 300ml. Add the remaining gin –plus a little more if you want – and let this cool.
4 Cut off the bread crusts. Cut out a circle the size of the base of a 1.5L pudding basin. Dip briefly in the fruit juice – don’t let it get too soggy, it must hold its shape – and put in the base. Cut the remaining bread into fingers. Dip each finger into the juice and line the pudding basin with it. Overlap and use smaller pieces of bread to plug any
gaps – you need to line the whole thing.
5 Spoon half the fruit into the basin, then lay fingers of bread on top, dipping them into the juice as you go. Spoon the remaining fruit on top, then cover with more bread fingers dipped in the juices. Cover the top with clingfilm (not tightly). Put a plate that will fit onto the pudding, and weigh it down with heavy tins. Chill the pudding in the fridge for 24 hours.
6 To turn the pudding out, run a knife between the bread fingers and the basin. Set a serving plate on top and invert the pudding, giving it a good shake to turn it out. Serve with any remaining juice and extra thick double cream.
Mayor helps Plus Dane break ground on new Bootle homes
Development will ‘breathe new life’ into former Johnson’s Cleaners headquarters site
LIVERPOOL CITY REGION Mayor Steve Rotheram joined Plus Dane and partners at the former Johnson’s Cleaners headquarters in Bootle recently to mark the start of work on more than 100 new homes.
Plus Dane Housing acquired the site on Stanley Road earlier this year and secured planning permission to build a mix of family homes and apartments. United Living New Homes, a subsidiary of United Living Group, will deliver the £22 million scheme.
Work has now started on demolishing the former headquarters building on the corner of the site. As soon as the site is clear, the first phase of construction of 67 homes will start. There will be 104 homes on the site in total, 20 Shared Ownership apartments, and 84 homes for social rent.
The five-acre site has a long history. Johnson’s Cleaners was one of the largest dyeing and dry-cleaning operations in the world. It was built close to Liverpool docks to clean the huge drapes from the first-class
the
says: “This development will breathe new life into a site that has historical significance, while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in our region.
“By providing a mixture of homes, including family houses and shared ownership apartments, we’re creating opportunities for
Bell Lamb & Joynson to sponsor YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards category
Residential conveyancing firm has pledged its support for this year’s
ceremony
BELL LAMB & JOYNSON has been confirmed as the sponsor of the ‘Emerging Residential Property Agency of the Year’ category at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024.
As one of the city’s oldest law firms, Bell Lamb & Joynson brings more than 200 years of legal expertise to the table, offering a wide range of services including conveyancing, family law, criminal defence, and private client matters.
When it comes to residential property transactions, Bell Lamb & Joynson is known for its speed and exceptional service – helping clients move into their dream homes as quickly as possible. The firm, which has offices in Walton, Maghull, Runcorn and Warrington, is ranked among the top 10 residential conveyancing solicitors in the North West.
Mike Leeman, managing partner at Bell Lamb & Joynson, says: “Supporting the ‘Emerging Residential Property Agency of the
local families to thrive. This is about more than just bricks and mortar though, it’s about building strong, vibrant communities where everyone has the chance to put down roots.
“I’m proud to see our commitment to building more homes in action, and I look forward to watching this project take shape as we continue to invest in the future of the region.”
Year’ category is a privilege.
“We understand the unique challenges that new agencies face in today’s competitive market, and it’s vital to acknowledge their innovation and achievements.
“The YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards offer a great platform to celebrate the success stories that are shaping Liverpool’s property landscape. We’re eager to see the
next generation of industry leaders being recognised.”
The YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards 2024, set to take place on 28 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, will see Bell Lamb & Joynson join a host of sponsors in celebrating the achievements of Liverpool’s dynamic property and business sectors.
lounges of the city’s transatlantic liners.
Mayor of
Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram
GOING
NUTS!
AS AUTUMN BEGINS IN EARNEST this month, I’m really hoping for what’s called a ‘St Luke’s Little Summer’. This is the name given to a period of warm weather starting on the saints’ feast day of 18 October, and lasting until the end of the month. This will hold me in good stead, as with the earth still warm if not too wet, October is the perfect time to get planting. It means that whatever you want to plant, especially bare-rooted trees and shrubs, gets a head start, and a chance to establish themselves before winter sets in.
Fruit and nut
I’ve been thinking of planting a small orchard for some time now. While this may sound rather ambitious, it’s actually not. What I’ve got in mind is a modest affair – about eight to 10 trees. The idea came about because initially I wanted to replace some old apple trees, introduce some more exotic fruits like quince and mulberry and also plant some nut trees.
Heather Marsh encourages us to do as the squirrels do and plant some nuts this autumn season
time of year, it appears we don’t seem to appreciate growing them anymore. Admittedly some nut trees can grow rather large, requiring plenty of room, but there are lots of manageable sized species to suit most gardens. There are four types of nuts that are known to grow well in this country: hazelnut, walnut, sweet chestnut and almond – the latter fairs better in milder regions but can still be grown successfully here given the right spot.
Nuts are such a nutritious superfood, providing us with fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals.
While plenty of us grow a variety of fruit trees in our gardens, too few of us grow nuts. Nuts are such a nutritious superfood, providing us with fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals. They are a great alternative to meat and fish and have been cultivated in this country for hundreds of years. Nuts are also such beautiful trees with so much to give yet apart from the squirrels, who are in seventh heaven at this
The hazelnut, also commonly known as the cobnut or Filbert, is probably the most reliable of all nuts to grow. Grown as a small tree, bush or hedging, the native hazelnut needs to be planted together with other varieties for pollination and to ensure a good harvest. However, if space is an issue, a self-fertile variety may be more suited to your garden requirements. Hazelnuts are easy to grow and not demanding, preferring reasonably fertile soil that’s free draining. A spot in full sun or partial shade is all they require.
The Kentish Cob is a popular self-fertile variety which grows to 3m x 3m with attractive green catkins in spring followed by a decent crop of nuts in early autumn.
The Nottingham Early Filbert is a vigorous reliable cropper of flavoursome nuts, harvesting in September. A widely commercially grown variety.
Webb’s prize cobnut is a heavy cropper producing large clusters of sweet nuts. Partially self-fertile. If you have the space, maximise this tree yield by growing it together with two or three other trees from the same family.
The walnut is a non-native believed to be brought here by the Romans. A deciduous tree that certainly needs space as mature specimens can grow up to 35m tall. Don’t let that put you off though, as there are several compact and dwarf varieties that do very well given a warm sunny spot and rich fertile soil.
Walnut Lara is a self-fertile, compact variety, producing its first crop of walnuts in just three to four years.
Walnut Buccaneer would be my choice for a slimmer upright tree economising on space, it’s self-fertile and a reliable cropper from about four years old.
The almond is my favourite nut for flavour and worth growing. A deciduous tree of elegance and beauty, another gift from the Romans. Covered in pink sweetly perfumed blossoms in early spring and delicious almonds come late October.
Almond trees really need the sun to thrive and therefore grow best in a sunny sheltered position, possibly fan trained against a south-facing wall. Also planting trees in a good fertile soil that’s free draining is vital. Some varieties can also be grown in large pots or containers, ideal for a sunny patio and meaning you can move them to a sheltered spot if the weather turns cold.
Princess almond is the perfect specimen tree, a self-fertile variety with fragrant white blossom in early March, followed by sweet almond nuts in late September.
Almond tree ‘Robijn’ a self-fertile tree producing pink scented blossoms in spring, a good cropper, yielding nuts two or three years after planting.
The sweet chestnut belongs to the oak and beech family. Not to be confused with the horse chestnut from where we get conkers, sweet chestnuts are what we sing about ‘roasting over an open fire’ at Christmas. Sadly, they are not ranked as being a popular tree to plant these days probably because of their size. They can grow up to 35m tall with a 2m girth. My lovely friend inherited her beautiful specimen some years ago – the previous owners, recognising how precious it was, got a preservation order on it for its protection. Taking up a lot of space at the bottom of her garden, the old tree still produces a decent crop of nuts around now. The delicious, sweet chestnuts only appear when trees are at least 25 years old! A long wait till harvest time if you are planting a sapling, but so worth it. Consider planting for the future and with the long-life span of these sweet chestnuts (the oldest tree is in Sicily and it’s believed to be at least 2,000 years old!) it’s going to be well worth it.
Take
your pick
‘Princess’ Almond Tree
– Prunus dulcis
Sweet almonds and scented blooms
• Sweet almonds you can eat straight from the tree
• Clouds of scented white blossom
‘Europa’ Walnut Tree
Grow walnuts in even the smallest garden
• A dwarf variety growing to just 3.5m
• Harvest tasty walnuts after only two-three years
• Bright green foliage and bark that turns silvery as it matures
• Catkins in summer attract pollinators to your garden
• Harvest from late September
• Makes an ideal specimen tree for every size of garden
Classically beautiful nut tree
• Large deciduous tree suitable for hedging
• Yellow catkins in summer
• Sweet edible chestnuts in autumn
• Fully hardy and low maintenance
All available to buy at rootsplants.co.uk
‘Merveille de Bollwyller’ Cobnut Tree
Versatile, compact and tasty!
• A compact tree with vibrant green foliage that’s easy to grow
• Heavy crops of large cobnuts from late August
• Pale yellow catkins and golden autumn foliage
• Beneficial to garden wildlife
Chestnut Tree – Castanea sativa
Legacie and Nexus Residential completes £45m Greater Manchester development
Merchants Wharf includes a mix of luxury apartments, a fully-equipped gymnasium, residents’ lounge and retail spaces
Leading Liverpool property developers Legacie and Nexus Residential have successfully completed the 196-apartment Merchants Wharf development in Salford.
This landmark project, located beside the River Irwell, represents a significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration of the area and underscores Legacie and Nexus’s commitment to delivering exceptional residential and commercial spaces.
The £45 million scheme, which includes a mix of luxury apartments, a fully-equipped gymnasium, residents’ lounge, cycle storage, private car park and high-quality retail spaces, has been designed to meet the demands of Greater Manchester’s growing population.
International sales agency, RWinvest, successfully sold all the units off-plan and
will be acquiring the commercial space as its new HQ for Greater Manchester.
The completion of Merchants Wharf is a testament to Legacie and Nexus Residential’s reputation as a prominent and credible force in the property development and construction industry. Known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, the joint venture partnership has consistently delivered high-impact projects that enhance local communities and drive economic growth. The entire development offers unparalleled living and commercial opportunities, contributing significantly to the urban regeneration of Greater Manchester.
John Morley, CEO of Legacie, says: “This completion marks a major achievement for Legacie and a significant enhancement for the area.
“Merchants Wharf is more than just a
“Merchants Wharf stands as a testament of Salford’s ongoing regeneration, intricately woven into the fabric of the community.”
development; it’s a pivotal project that supports Greater Manchester’s vision for modern, sustainable living and economic growth.
“We’re proud to contribute to the city’s transformation and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on the local community.”
Michael Gledhill, director of Nexus Residential, adds: “Merchants Wharf stands as a testament of Salford’s ongoing regeneration, intricately woven into the fabric of the community.
“This development not only enhances the riverside landscape but also fosters a sense of belonging, making it a vital part of the area’s wider rejuvenation.
“We’re excited to contribute to a space that reflects the character and aspirations of its residents.”
Merchants Wharf is ideally positioned to benefit from Manchester’s thriving economy and burgeoning real estate market. The development’s completion of it represents a major landmark for Legacie and Nexus Residential as joint venture partners, after its success with Element The Quarter in Liverpool.
Bruce Springsteen &
E Street
Band to play Anfield
LEGENDARY BEST-SELLING ROCK ACT Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will play at Anfield stadium next summer as part of their 2025 European tour run.
The electrifying live show will come to the historic home of Liverpool FC on Wednesday 4 June 2025, with timeless hits and new material.
The ‘Born To Run’ star’s shows are famous for their energy, passion and duration, making it an unmissable event for both old and new fans.
The announcement sees Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band become the third act confirmed to perform at Anfield next summer, with Billy Joel and Dua Lipa also set to take to the stage at the iconic stadium.
Concerts held at Anfield over the past five years have helped boost the local economy and provided thousands of jobs for local people. Since 2019 a total of seven artists have played 11 concerts at Anfield so far, with close to half a million people visiting the stadium seeing the local economy boosted by more than £31 million.
Half of those visitors came through the Anfield turnstiles this summer alone, with three hugely successful nights of Taylor Swift as part of her Eras worldwide tour and two nights of P!nk’s Summer Carnival 2024
In previous years Anfield has hosted Bon Jovi, Take That, Elton John and The Eagles, with each concert bringing extra employment opportunities, with a minimum of 1,450 staff required for each one, 85% of those employed for the shows came from the city of Liverpool and more than half (55%) were under 30 years old.
Portrait of passengers
on popular
bus route published in print
‘The 86’ captures ‘quirkiness and uniqueness’ of journey from Smithdown Road to Liverpool city centre
WRITTEN BY NICKI MCCUBBING, with a foreword by Lynsey Hanley and designed by Lisa Robson, ‘The 86’ celebrates the beauty found in everyday interactions and the glimmers of humanity we experience through community connection.
During a three-month artist residency on the 86 bus, Nicki, who has ridden the 86 route between the city centre and her home for more than 25 years, captured conversations, moments of laughter, sadness, and confusion.
The result is a relatable, heart-warming and humorous collection of small observed gestures and snippets of conversations that creates a unique portrait of the 86.
Nicki says: “It’s important to me that ordinary people see themselves in art and I have tried to capture the different classes, ages and backgrounds of all the people riding on this bus with love and humour. Riding the bus has this strange mix of being together and separate – together and lonely.”
‘The 86’ is part of Picton Play, commissioned by Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool team as part of its Creative Neighbourhoods programme and delivered by Edge Hill-based arts organisation Metal.
What’s
on...
Events not to be missed over the next four weeks
Never: An Evening with Rick Astley, Philharmonic 16 October
Sharing on his newly released autobiography, Never, the singer, songwriter and musician dives into a captivating discussion on the complexities of fame, fortune, and the pressures of the spotlight.
11 Oct Rachel Parris, St George’s Hall
13 Oct LACES OUT! Trainer Festival, Camp and Furnace
19 Oct Squeeze, M&S Bank Arena
24 Oct An Evening with David Morrissey, Everyman
4 Nov Paul Weller, Everyman
8 Nov Pete Wylie and the Mighty Wah!, Shakespeare North Playhouse
English National Ballet –Mary Skeaping’s Giselle, Empire 23-26 October
A celebrated production of one of the greatest romantic ballets. Giselle is a haunting story of innocence and betrayal – a timeless tale about the redemptive power of love.
The Boss becomes the third major act to confirm a summer show at the famous stadium
