A LIVERPOOL city council spokesperson said: “All our hackney carriage fleet of 1,426 vehicles are wheelchair accessible and we currently have around 15 private hire vehicles that are also wheelchair accessible “We have been working with the Royal National Institute of Blind People and are just about to launch braille
ALACK of wheelchair accessible taxis is causing misery to millions of disabled people.
The stark impact that a lack of cabs has on disabled people’s daily lives – particularly those in rural locations – is revealed in new research
A survey by charity Leonard Cheshire found two-thirds of disabled people – an estimated 8 million – could not always access taxis or private hire vehicles (PHVs)
And one in 10 said they were never able to get any kind of accessible taxi
With taxis often the preferred choice for many disabled people, not being able to get one can make the difference between socialising with friends, being able to make a healthcare appointment or attending a job interview
Joshua Reeves, campaigns support officer at Leonard Cheshire, said: “As a wheelchair user I have experienced my own challenges, but chairing the steering group for this research has opened my eyes to the barriers disabled people with different impairments face
“We need more disability confident taxi companies so disabled people can have a
DISABLED people will be the driving force behind a ground-breaking research centre being created to close the “transport accessibility gap”
The Evidence Centre for Inclusive Transport will look at ways to improve the accessibility and reliability of road, rail and air transport for disabled people
With £20 million in funding, the centre aims to transform the transport sector ’s understanding of disabled people’s experiences and develop accessible solutions
The Research Institute for Disabled Consumers will play a key role in ensuring that disabled people are at the heart of the centre’s work
signage for all our hackneys to assist partially sighted and blind passengers to identify the vehicle they are travelling in, for safety reasons
“We provide training for our drivers and regularly check compliance on the use of and availability of ramps We have also worked with drivers on making sure they do not refuse assistance dogs ”
balanced social life and get from A to B
“I’m fed up of being told that accessible taxis are only used for hospital and school pickups, with many being cut off in the evening Sadly, it seems disabled people are perceived not to go out at night!”
The charity’s research also shows that availability isn’t the only issue Almost half of those surveyed revealed they had experienced some form of discrimination and stigma from taxi/PHV drivers or operators, suggesting the problem is widespread
Gemma Hope, director of policy at Leonard Cheshire, said: “We want to see the Government putting forward financial incentives to help cover some of the upfront costs of wheelchair accessible vehicles and increase the supply of zero-emissions compliant wheelchair accessible vehicles on the roads ”
The charity is also calling for mandatory disability awareness training for taxi and PHV staff to help address some of the negative experiences disabled customers have had
Currently, only about half of local authorities require drivers to undertake training on how to support disabled customers
Connecting with 250,000 people
This will include developing and managing a new Community for Accessible Transport, a panel of disabled people which will help set the centre’s agenda by providing evidence and insight through such things as surveys, focus groups and testing
Phil Friend, RiDC’s chair, said: “RiDC has a 50-year history in improving the consumer experience of disabled people
“Our role is to ensure it is disabled people themselves who express what’s needed, so we avoid ‘reinventing a bad wheel’ ”
Paul Herriotts, professor of transport design at Coventry University, said: “We recognise the daily challenges still faced by disabled people in accessing transport in the UK
“We will look to disabled people to help guide and inform our activities and to help shape the future of public and private transport in the UK ”
BARRIER: More disability-confident taxi companies are needed
All good in Liverpool
Shortage of accessible cabs has millions stranded
A WORLD where people affected by disability, and others who are disadvantaged, can enjoy the same opportunities as everyone else
FOR 50 years a group of fundraisers in Southport have been helping people with spinal cord injuries live as independently as possible
They have even raised enough to buy a house in the town where ex-patients with high levels of paralysis can live and be supported
HUGE congratulations to Darren Edwards, the 32-year-old wheelchair adventurer who has just completed seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.
As reported last autumn in All Together NOW!, ex-army reservist
Darren’s remarkable handbike journeys started in Antarctica and finished in Miami
The World Marathon Challenge also saw him take in Africa, Australia, the Middle East, Europe and South America
He said it had been a “truly unique whirlwind of a week”
After finishing his first event in arctic conditions, he said it was the most challenging five hours and 50 minutes of his life, battling high winds, freezing temperatures, 500m uphill sections, and snow drifts
That was followed by hot and windy conditions in Cape Town – where he finished first with a time of two hours and 48 minutes – and then the blazing afternoon heat of Perth
His challenge has so far raised £52,000 to pay for injured and wounded veterans to enjoy alpine activities with the Armed Forces Para-Snowsport Team
Darren was left paralysed from the waist after a climbing accident in North Wales in 2016, but said he refused to let disability stop him from dreaming big and taking on tough challenges
Two years ago, he kayaked from Land’s End to John O’ Groats with a team of disabled veterans
MEET Pete Wellings, one of our all-important drivers who make sure all our 50,000 copies of All Together NOW! get to you!
Pete joined us two years ago and says he loves meeting readers who pick up our free paper
“So many people say they don’t use the internet and the paper is a lifeline to them,” he says.
“I retired quite a while ago and I never thought I’d be a newspaper boy in my 70s! But it’s a real labour of love ”
your bus ride
I LOVE this paper! I pick up loads of copies every time I’m in Sainsbury’s (Woolton store) and enjoy placing them on top of the Metros on the bus I use. All Together NOW! is a much better read than all the other papers put together!
– Happy ATN reader
Now the team at the Spinal Unit Action Group (SUAG) are planning a celebration night at Southport and Birkdale Cricket Club on April 15
Nicola Ivanovic said: “Many local businesses have helped us to provide lots of help to patients and families
“But our biggest pride is buying a large house in Birkdale where individuals who have sustained high tetraplegic injuries can live and be supported in an environment they call home – in Weld Road ”
n Nicola Ivanovic: Tel 07522 445283
BBC TV’s Mastermind is scouring the UK to find contenders for the next series which will be filmed in Belfast. Although applications close at midnight, Monday April 24, the word is act now. The application takes just 10 minutes to complete.
n email mastermind hth@hattrick com
THIS year ’s Sight Village events, which give people with sight loss the chance to find out about the latest technology, will also include services and products for deaf people
Nikki Morris, CEO at Deafblind UK, the charity sponsoring the free events, said: “Having information and equipment for sight loss and hearing loss all under one roof makes these events truly unique and a welcome addition to these already fantastic exhibitions ”
April 18: All Nations Centre, Cardiff n Deafblind UK: Tel 0800 132320
7 marathons 7 days 7 continents
THE GRIM effects of Covid is thought to have played a significant part in the big drop in the disabled population of England and Wales.
A sharp drop occurred between 2011 and 2021, possibly caused by the disproportionate number of disabled people who died during the pandemic, say the Office for National Statistics.
The fall was particularly marked in those disabled people whose activities were “limited a lot” by their impairment or health condition, with a reduction from 9.2% of females in England to 7.8%, and an even sharper fall from 9% to 7.1% of males in England over the 10 years.
THE equality watchdog has taken action under against both the Department for Transport and the rail regulator over concerns that cuts and reforms to train services are making the network ever more inaccessible
So far, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has only written a letter to DfT and the Office of Rail and Road, but it has warned them both that it “will not hesitate to use its enforcement powers.”
l See Page 8
But they have called on the Government to go further and introduce a permanent ban.
Svetlana Kotova, a leading member, said: “Relying on judicial moratorium of the Disability Poverty Campaign Group or the goodwill of energy providers is not good enough
“The Government must bring in new laws to permanently ban forcing people onto pre-payment schemes ”
FIXING uneven pavements and ending pavement parking are among the calls made in the Disabled Citizens’ Inquiry report
Other demands in the report, led by walking and cycling charity Sustrans and Transport for All, include walking and wheeling crossing points across roads and cycle paths, and improved access to off-road routes
The report found more than half of people with mobility impairments, learning difficulties or sight loss often experience problems reaching their destination
A LAW which would give more than 2 million working carers access to a week’s leave has moved a step closer
ANEW coalition of 94 organisations has come together to tackle the financial hardship of millions of unpaid carers across the UK.
The Carer Poverty Coalition, a mix of charities and local organisations, aims to build awareness of carer poverty and the impact of the cost of living crisis on unpaid carers, and improve the limited financial support available to them
The coalition will also look at what carers need to support them to continue with paid work, alongside their caring role, for as long as possible
The group is being led by Carers UK, the national charity supporting and representing those with an unpaid caring responsibility for
someone who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, drug or alcohol issue or who needs extra help as they grow older
Carers UK research released last autumn revealed that one in four carers (25%) were cutting back on food or heating to make ends meet during the cost-of-living crisis, rising to 35% of those receiving Carer ’s Allowance – the main benefit of £69 70 a week for those caring 35 hours or more each week
A significant number of carers were also using food banks – 8% of those in receipt of Carer ’s Allowance Data suggests that close to one million people in England are claiming Carer ’s Allowance, with new data today showing 20,000
additional people claimed the benefit between May 2022 and August 2022
The coalition is campaigning to see a benefits system that better supports people providing high amounts of unpaid care, along with changes to help carers stay in paid work for longer while caring
Abby Jitendra, principal policy adviser at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: “The act of caring is hugely valuable to us as a society but this isn’t reflected by our social security system ”
Chris James, director of external affairs at the Motor Neurone Disease Association, said: “Carers need improved financial support and more opportunities to remain in work ”
FIVE MILLION adults – and children – are carrying out some form of unpaid care work.
Of those, 1 5m are doing it for more than 50 hours a week, according to new figures
And many are struggling to cope with the pressures and to make ends meet
The figures from the Census 2021 show there was a marked increase in the number of people providing substantial care between 2011 and 2021: For 20-49 hours a week (260,000), and 50 hours a week (152,000)
The census also shows a widening gap in the percentage of unpaid carers in the most and least deprived areas of England and Wales
In England, 8 1% of people in the least deprived areas are unpaid carers, compared with 10 1% in the most deprived areas
In 2011, the difference was just 0 4%
The intensity of care is also higher, nearly double the rate, in the most deprived areas, with 4% of people in most deprived areas providing over 50 hours of unpaid care compared with 1 9% in the least deprived areas
A similar pattern was seen in Wales
OLDER age group provide the mos hours of unpaid care per week
Women aged 75 to 79 and men aged 85 to 89 make up the highest percentage of 50 hours or more of care
There has also been an increase in the percentage of women age 85 and over providing unpaid care (6 3% in 2021 compared to 5 9% in 2011
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said: “It is alarming that there are more women over 85 years providing unpaid care
Find
–
a point in life where they do less than they once uld, and likely dealing ith health problems of heir own, this group must be better upported to care
“Similarly, given those ver 70 are most likely to e providing 50 hours or ore of unpaid care per ek, it is imperative that Government delivers nding our social care o desperately needs so that these older carers can get support and necessary breaks ”
Sign up for our newsletter . . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk SPRING 2023
The landmark Carer ’s Leave Bill has passed the third reading in the House of Commons and and now moves to the Lords
The landmark Bill will now pass to the House of Lords for its next stages Wendy Chamberlain MP for North East Fife, who brought forward her Private Member ’s Bill last June, said: “This is an amazing milestone on the way to giving millions more people the support they need to stay in work
“But this is also a starting point: a start for conversations between employers and those who work for them about providing support, the start of campaigning for paid leave, and the start of a process in which we give carers the recognition and value they deserve ”
It’s all about being flexible
THE Government has confirmed that new legislation would grant employees the right to request a flexible working routine
After campaigning for this right for carers, Carers UK warmly welcomed the announcement, which would make a difference to millions of unpaid carers juggling work with looking after an older, disabled or seriously ill relative or friend
Helen Walker, head of Carers UK, said: “Being able to request flexible working from day one of starting a job means carers can now better balance their caring responsibilities ”
Ms Walker said if it successfully becomes law, the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill would allow employees – including working carers – to make two flexible working requests in any 12-month period
Fall in disabled population ‘partly due to Covid deaths’
CAMPAIGNERS have welcomed a judge’s order that should put a temporary stop to energy companies using the courts to force customers onto prepayment meters.
ILLIONS of over-60s are still struggling to adapt to an increasingly online world
Two out of five older adults feel they are anything but “tech savvy”, new research has found
And one in five are finding it hard to get to grips with the online tasks they are now required to carry out on a daily basis
In the survey of 1,500 over-60s, six out of every 10 believe it is harder for older generations to adapt to technology because they lived through a time without it –whereas younger people have never known any different
But the research by BT also shows many older people are
keen to improve their online knowhow
Almost half of those asked want to learn more tech skills, as 46% feel they have to rely on gadgets and technology most days
And 65% believe you are never too old to learn new things Of those asked, 37% said doing so has made their life easier, while 18% said using technology has helped them feel less lonely
n There are an estimated half a million people across Merseyside and Cheshire who remain offline The cost of living crisis is likely to lead to even more people being digitally excluded
IAM one of those over-60s who is far from being “tech savvy”
But using the internet as part of my job has at least given me a few basic skills, which makes life so much easier
It’s also just helped me find a copy of a long lost photograph
The last time I’d seen the cherished black and white school picture of me
by TOM DOWLING editorand my brother, Jim, in our new Wolves footie kits, was in 1976, and I had assumed it was lost forever
That’s until I posted a request on Facebook’s
Liverpool Old School
Photos site
“Does anyone have footie images of Whitefield Road CP school during
the early 60s?” I asked Amazingly, next day one picture was posted by someone unknown to me and it was the picture I’d been searching for all those years
Jim is holding the ball, I’m the little kid, freezing cold, front row, left A big thanks to Tony Holman for posting the picture and to those running this very popular Facebook page I’m hooked now
If you have the contacts and the desire to help us develop new relationships with public and private sector bodies, we’d be delighted to hear from you
THE FIGHT to end segregation and have all disabled children taught in mainstream schools is being stepped up.
The Alliance for Inclusive Education (ALLFIE) is working to build a coalition of disabled activists and allies who see inclusive education as a social justice and human rights issue.
Michelle Daley, ALLFIE’s director, said: “We know inclusion works But at the moment there is no meaningful investment or interest from government in making inclusion thrive and be sustainable ”
She said mainstream schools often refuse disabled pupils, particularly those with high support needs
A WORRYING gap in achievement between children with vision impairments and their sighted classmates has been revealed
And the difference in attainment lasts throughout their school lives, a sight loss charity has found
Caireen Sutherland, head of Education at the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), said: “There are clear and concerning disparities in the quality of education from primary school all the way up to GCSE level and beyond.”
HUGE numbers of older and disabled people struggle to get into their own homes, and to take a bath or shower
One in four people with housing accessibility needs say they find it “difficult” or “very difficult” to even get past their front door
And almost three out of five have problems accessing their own bathrooms, a study by Leonard Cheshire Disability reveals
The study follows a BBC investigation that found three of England’s largest cities have no plans for providing wheelchair-accessible homes
Problems are compounded by long waiting lists for suitably accessible social housing, according to Habinteg Housing Association,
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If you would like to find out more or to arrange a visit wmc.ac.uk/prepforlife or call 0151 551 7777
who say about 400,000 wheelchair users in England alone are living in unsuitable accommodation
The failure to plan for fully accessible homes was uncovered by BBC Freedom of Information requests to hundreds of local councils, underscoring what the Equality and Human Rights Commission has called a “hidden crisis” in housing for disabled people
Local councils can require housebuilders to ensure a percentage of homes meet higher standards of accessibility, ensuring that bathrooms and kitchens are usable and that all rooms offer enough space for wheelchair users to move around
But the FOI responses revealed cities such as Sheffield, Coventry and Bradford currently have no quotas After the FOI request,
Coventry introduced an “optional requirement” which applies to some affordable homes
Leonard Cheshire and Habinteg are calling for the Government to honour its commitment to make all new homes accessible and adaptable (known as category 2)
n Liverpool City Council is one of the few local authorities that has introduced strict rules on accessible housing through its local plan
This means all new homes in Liverpool must be built to be more accessible and adaptable for those with mobility impairments, and 10% of them must be wheelchair-accessible and adaptable
THERE’s a new spring in the step for a charity that supports children and young people, after being awarded £90,000 by the Steve Morgan Foundation
The grant will help cover the salaries of two key members of staff at Stick ‘n’ Step over a three-year period Stick ‘n’ Step provides free weekly conductive education sessions from centres in Wallasey and Runcorn to children and young people with cerebral palsy up to the age of 25
The charity relies on supporters and volunteers to help raise the £750,000 required to deliver its services to over 100 families each year from across Merseyside, Cheshire and North Wales
Chief executive Amy Couture said: “Our biggest cost relates to staff costs This donation will make such a difference
“We’ve had a wonderful relationship with the Steve Morgan Foundation for a number of years They funded our Runcorn centre when it was first developed ”
Jonathan Masters, trustee of the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “Stick ‘n’ Step is a proactive charity which receives no statutory funding
“Children and young people with cerebral palsy not only access muchneeded conductive education, they also form friendships with others who face similar challenges
“We are delighted to be able to help to continue with the incredible work they do ”
IT’S DOUBLE delight for Sue and Anthony Peel after they took delivery of new lightweight wheelchairs, thanks to the Steve Morgan Foundation
The couple, who live in Northwich, were both finding it difficult to manoeuvre their manual wheelchairs But they could only afford £2,500 of the £16K cost of the new DaVinci chairs with powered trike adaptations so in stepped the Steve Morgan Foundation’s Enable Fund Anthony, 55, said: “The new
wheelchairs are amazing and have really improved our quality of life
“We are very grateful to the Steve Morgan Foundation We can’t wait to start getting out and about again ”
Debbie Corbett, Enable Grants Manager at the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “The Enable Fund was set up to help people like Anthony and Sue
“Being mobile is something most of us take for granted We are delighted to to help ”
FREEDOM: New funding will help disabled people all across North Wales
THE FDF Centre for Independent Living, previously known as Flintshire Disability Forum, has been helping disabled and disadvantaged people for more than 20 years.
Based in Mold, they originally focused on Flintshire and Wrexham but 18 months ago expanded to cover the whole of North Wales
To help with the increased demand, the Steve Morgan Foundation has awarded
the charity £53,000 over three years towards the salary of the chief officer Current chief officer Jan Thomas said: “The Steve Morgan Foundation has supported us for the last six years Without the Foundation the charity would have closed
“We get up to 20 referrals a day so the demand is there We guarantee to respond within 72 hours, reassuring disabled people that help is on its way ”
WIRRAL Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted has been awarded more than £78,000 by the Steve Morgan Foundation
The group support around 300 people every month, providing practical, social and emotional support
Over the past year they have witnessed a surge in demand for their services
As a result, the charity applied to the Steve Morgan Foundation for £78,726 to
pay the three-year salary of a supervisor for the day-to-day running of their Birkenhead centre
Ruth Dixon, projects manager at the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “The centre has been extended and transformed into a bright, welcoming building It’s a focal point of the community and is a lifeline for its users ”
The group also runs an eye unit at Wirral University Teaching Hospital
PLANS to remove guards from trains, cut staff and shut ticket offices will stop many disabled passengers using the railways and put lives at risk, the Transport Minister has been warned
The warning was delivered to Mark Harper – who is a former minister for disabled people – along with a petition backed by more than 90 organisations
Reforms proposed by the Government would also be discriminatory, insists the National Federation of the Blind of the UK (NFBUK)
Reports have suggested the measures are likely to see about four fifths of ticket offices closing, whie campaigners led by the Association of British Commuters have called on the Equality and Human Rights Commission to take “urgent action” on railway staffing
NFBUK said the Government’s proposals were “unacceptable, unsafe and unworkable”
Organisations backing the petition include disabled and older people’s groups, and others representing blind and visually impaired people
NFBUK member Kevin Greenan, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, said he would not be able to use trains if there were no guards on board
He said: “I wouldn’t know where the train was coming from or going to and sometimes the station announcements aren’t very clear because they are automated “
Sarah Leadbetter, NFBUK’s campaigns officer, said lives would be at risk if the Government went ahead with its plans
Only a few days ago, a blind friend of hers was left badly bruised when she slipped between a train and the platform at an unstaffed station and had to be grabbed by another passenger before she fell onto the tracks
A DfT spokesperson said: “The safety and security of all rail passengers will always be top priority on our railways
“We are working with industry to improve and modernise the passenger experience by moving staff out from behind ticket offices and onto stations to provide more face-to-face help and assistance ”
THE story of how a social movement helped bring about the landmark Disability Discrimination Act is to be captured for future generations.
A four-year project will tell the unique social history of the disability rights movement in the UK, which had a crucial role to play in the passing of the 1995 law.
Shape Arts has been awarded an £840,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to create an accessible and interactive website dedicated to the movement.
The project will add to the National Disability Arts Collection & Archive, created by Shape Arts through a previous Heritage Fund enterprise in 2018.
THE 2021 Census revealed that five million children and adults carry out some form of unpaid care work in England and Wales Here is Lynda Yu and Michal Sramek’s story
AROAD accident in 2004 left Lynda with a broken neck and paralysed in her upper and lower body
She is fully dependent on the care she receives 24/7 from her partner Michal
Such are her complex care needs Lynda would end up in A&E without it
When she couldn’t access the care she needed, Michal gave up his job in the hotel industry to become her full-time carer
But he has not had a day off for seven years and, understandably, the stress has become intolerable
It takes him around three to four hours just to get Lynda ready for the day, which includes carrying her from bed to shower chair and undertaking her personal needs
Michal said: “Lynda can’t cough, vomit or blow her nose on her own, so she is extremely fragile and I can’t leave her alone
“Paralysed people who have support from society can achieve
“But for people like Lynda, who is a C5 complete tetraplegic, they are fully
dependent on their carer to attend all their daily needs
“The quality of care out there is sometimes so poor it’s actually very dangerous Some of the care provision agencies are very bad, but the clients are too scared to complain
“It’s a proper nursing job requiring skill, but they can send just about anyone to live with you So, here I am ”
Lynda says: “Michal can no longer cope He is going to have a breakdown if I don’t do something, so I have looked at care outside
“My mum is sick, and I don’t have extended family close by, but he can’t manage anymore, mentally
“I can’t go without care for one day If my catheter bag isn’t emptied, I suffer from something called autonomic dysreflexia which could be fatal ”
Lynda is struggling to find anyone who can meet her care requirements and has even considered taking her own life because of it
“I need qualified carers or life isn’t worth living I know I should stay alive and fight it but how can you fight it if you don’t have anything to fight with?”
Every care agency she has contacted has told Lynda a similar story: that they’re short on carers and cannot take on any new assignments, provide respite cover or offer regular care They say it’s because
they
For Lynda the stress of finding appropriate care has become overwhelming: “It keeps me awake at night and I have to rely on sleeping pills which I have been on for three years
“How am I supposed to live this life when I can’t afford to get the care I need?
People don’t realise how hard it is to access decent care and the danger if you don’t receive any help ”
The Spinal Injuries Association supports many like Lynda in their battle to access the care they need
Nik Hartley, the charity’s CEO, said:
“Spinal cord injured people have expressed particular concern around the turnover of carers and the quality of the care provided with the constant fear of being left without life-sustaining care leaving many desperate
“SCI people know better than anyone the urgency of the situation, with many depending on carers to stay alive
“Persistent underfunding of the care sector underlies almost all of the workforce problems in social care and that higher pay is a prerequisite to attract and retain social care workers ”
n Due to the stress Lynda and Michal separated temporarily but are now trying again to make things work in the hope that Lynda can find additional support to help her partner cope
guards on trains ‘will put lives at risk’
Michal can no longer cope –and but I can’t find the help I need ‘
With household bills continuing to rise, there’s never been a better time to switch to a water meter.
Most customers save at least £100 a year with a meter – so if your home has more bedrooms than people it’s likely you’ll make a big saving.
if you change your mind. We even guarantee that you won’t pay more during the two-year trial so you’ve got nothing to lose!
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Call us on 0345 672 2888 to set one up or visit:
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It's really easy to make simple changes to how you use water to help reduce your gas and electricity bills. Only turning on the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load, taking shorter showers or energy bills. In fact, making small changes can help to reduce your energy bill by as much as £200 a year! And if you have a water meter, you’ll also reduce your water bills too.
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need it most stage in our lives. This could be due to age, ill health, disability, mental health or language barriers. Registering for Priority Services is from additional services to support your particular needs. Services include:
• A dedicated team to listen and help
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Register at: or call: 0345 672 2888.
CAMPAIGNING: The charity has a proud history but says there are new battles to fight for disabled drivers
AMOTORING charity that helped bring about the Blue Badge and Motability schemes says its future is at risk
The warning comes as Disabled Motoring UK marks its 100th anniversary
DMUK, which also campaigned successfully for driving licenses for disabled people and exemptions from vehicle excise duties, VAT on some vehicles and congestion charges, says its situation has become “fairly serious”
Margaret Oldham, chair of DMUK, said: “We are in a difficult financial situation, and have to find some solutions ”
The organisation fears the support it provides, and its campaigning work, are
viewed as less important than services offered by other charities
But DMUK said the “significant challenges” created by the transition to electric vehicles – and the ongoing issues around parking, blue badges, disability benefits and smart
motorways – meant it still had a vital role to play
One option is to put together a funding bid to help disabled people – already struggling with the cost of living crisis – in the move towards electric vehicles, which Oldham said
was a “big issue” for DMUK’s 16,000 members
She said: “Like most charities, we have found funding very difficult over the past few years
“People are supporting so many desperate charities like those helping Ukraine, or mental health charities, cancer charities or Children in Need, that DMUK is not seen as being vital to support
“But with the importance of electric vehicles at the moment, plus the everlasting issues we face on parking, blue badges, disability benefits, smart motorways and such like, we do not want to have to close ”
She said DMUK has had an “immense” influence over the last 100 years, enabling disabled people to be mobile, “which in many cases has enabled employment, independence and enjoyment”
FLASHBACK to 1947: Denny Denley, who did so much for disabled drivers, went on a trek across the Alps in his petrol-powered Argson tricycle It led to the Invalid Tricycle Association being formed, which later became the Disabled Drivers Association
SPRING 2023
A DIGITAL platform that improves musculoskeletal rehabilitation:
Anna Wilson, right, qualified as a vet before discovering her real passion: technology and innovation in healthcare
As an elite amateur athlete and member of England’s touch rugby team, Anna has first-hand experience of musculoskeletal injuries
She’s now started Tortoise, an app that empowers people with musculoskeletal injuries to recover and meet their activity goals The app is currently in the concept phase, but Anna is excited to turn it into a reality Email info@tortoise rehab
YOUNG inventors from all over the country received a £5,000 boost for their “life-changing” projects
The 94 winners of this year ’s Young Innovators’ Awards will also get one-on-one business coaching
The awards recognise young people with great business ideas who have the potential to become successful entrepreneurs and future leaders in innovation In addition to the awards, Innovate UK delivers workshops and briefing events to provide practical business advice to a network of
over 12,500 young people across the UK
Emily Nott, head of equality, diversity and inclusion programmes at Innovate UK said: “The level of creativity, passion, and commitment to positive change within our society and environment in this year ’s Young Innovators Award winners is beyond inspiring ”
n If you are an inspiring young innovator, check out how Innovate UK could support you www ktnuk.org/programme/young-innovators/
THE PORTABLE mobile seat raiser helping to combat mobility issues:
CREATING a low-cost, multi-line braille display: Gregory Hargraves, above, started Paige Braille to create a product that would enable affordable access to braille and transform braille literacy worldwide
Bioengineering graduate Gregory said: “We have a strong engineering background as a team, but the business support and advice offered by the Young Innovators Award is going to be invaluable to us ” www.paigenraille.com
BEN Keeble’ passion for combining business with was well and truly fired when he received a top scholarship in entrepreneurship
Warrington-based Ben started his business, Mobiliaid, after his grandfather found life increasingly difficult due to the everyday problems with sitting and standing
As a result, he wasn’t able to socialise, which led to loneliness, isolation and a deterioration in his physical and mental health
Ben’s invention allows people with mobility issues to sit and stand from seats when they are out and about The product can fit on any chair, is quick to set up and is easily transported
Ben’s product is now going through the final stage of prototyping
He said: “I have spent a lot of time working to develop the product and ensure funding is in place for the early stages “However, now is the time I need to fully
understand how to get the product manufactured and to market ” www mobiliaid co uk
BRINGING support for amputees into the digital age:
When Lydia Carrick’s dad lost his leg in a motorbike accident, her family was shocked by the lack of support for new amputees
Lydia, above, said: “We faced the unknown completely alone ”
It sparked the idea for Apputee, a phone-based app that allows amputees to discover online resources, services and communities tailored to their recovery www.apputee.org
DEVELOPING medical innovations for diabetic foot ulcers:
Growing up in The Wirral, Sagar Jadeja, above, studied to become a dentist before realising his real passion was in healthcare
He then started Medical Intelligence Group, which focuses on driving disease prevention over treatment
The company’s first innovation is a remote monitor for people who suffer from diabetic foot ulcers
Sagar has developed a working prototype to help measure an ulcer and has a clinical trial planned www medicalintelligence group.co.uk
INVENTING body-powered prosthetics that don’t need electronics:
Fergal Mackie was always interested in making things That’s why he decided to study mechanical engineering – to fulfil his passion for building things It was when Fergal fell over, breaking both of his wrists, that his interest for hand prosthetics was ignited
Rendered essentially handless for the summer before his final year at uni, he quickly had to discover innovative ways to complete his daily tasks
Fergal set out to invent a fully body-powered prosthetic hand with his business, Metacarpal
He built the first prototype from his bedroom and has big dreams for the company
Fergal said: “I want Metacarpal to completely change the upperlimb prosthetics industry by setting a new standard of products that competitors are chasing to catch up with
“I then want to find a way to distribute this technology where it is needed most – in developing countries and war zones ” www metacarpal co uk
MAIL-IN SPERM test kits:
Lily Elsner worked in healthcare, law and biotechnology before a friend approached her with a research idea – male fertility
She found that the UK is facing a looming fertility crisis Sperm counts have declined sharply since 1980 and over a third of infertility is exclusively caused by the male factor
Lily’s business, Jack Fertility, is developing a mail-in sperm test kit that offers lab-grade semen analysis
She said about her team:
“Being part of the solution in preventing the excruciating pain of infertility and frustration around conception speed motivates and inspires us ” www jackfertility co uk
THE LIVES of more than 100,000 people in England and Wales with type 1 diabetes could soon be transformed, with a little help from a new pump
National charity Diabetes UK says the new system of managing the potentially life-threatening condition will be a gamechanger for those unable to control their blood sugar levels
The system – often called an “artificial pancreas” – is also being recommended for women with type 1 diabetes who are pregnant or planning a baby
Nikki Joule, policy manager at the charity, said: “Hybrid closed-loop technology has the potential to transform the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, improving both clinical outcomes and their quality of life
“Type 1 diabetes can take a huge mental toll, with people manually calculating how much insulin they need regularly throughout the day
“By automating these calculations, this technology can greatly alleviate the emotional burden of diabetes
“We look forward to it being rolled out on the NHS and will work towards ensuring
that everyone who could benefit from this life-changing technology has access to it ”
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the health body recommending the technology, said the system improves quality of life and reduces the risk of long-term health complications such as blindness and amputations
About 400,000 people in the UK are living with type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body attacks and kills the pancreas, the organ that produces insulin, the vital hormone that converts sugar into energy
BODY SENSOR:
New help on the way for people with type 1 diabetes
The system works by linking insulin pumps that are worn around the hips and continuous glucose monitors with a computer algorithm that can calculate the amount of insulin needed
But users will still need to tell the system when and how many carbohydrates they are eating – and can do so with a smart phone
Reports say the system currently costs nearly £6,000 per patient per year
People with blood sugar levels of 64mmol/mol or 8% are (ideal levels are 48mmol/mol – 6%) are expected to be offered the treatment
ACREW of potential disabled astronauts are re-acquainting themselves with the earth after a pioneering mission
The crew, from the US, Australia, Germany, Spain and Brazil, have taken part in the world’s first research flight aimed at helping people with disabilities get into space
Blasting off from Houston, Texas, they completed 18 parabolic manoeuvres – which allow crew members to experience weightlessness – at a height of 25,000ft
Anna Voelker, executive director of AstroAccess, the project dedicated to promoting disability in space, said: “While there is still work to be done to make space accessible for everyone, the success of this historic parabolic flight shows strong movement in the right direction ”
The flight was completed just weeks after the European Space Agency appointed their first disabled astronaut, John McFall
During the flight, the crew conducted a variety of scientific demonstrations to make spacecraft accessible to all
The blind wrew tested an innovative set of tactile graphics to be added to cabin walls that will allow both blind crew
members and sighted crew members to stay oriented during emergencies and find emergency gear in zero gravity if the lights go off
The blind and mobility crews also demonstrated for the first time that a disabled person can independently get into a launch seat and safely fasten the five-point seat harness, making it clear that disabled people can safely fly aboard suborbital space missions
In collaboration with Sony and SonicCloud, the hard-ofhearing and blind crews demonstrated a system to enable improved speech understanding using SonicCloud’s innovative sound personalisation software that allows the user to tailor the audio to their hearing ability, in conjunction with Sony headphones
The deaf crew continued their work on linguistics studies of intelligibility of American Sign Language in zero gravity
Matt Gohd, CEO of Zero G Corporation,the company supprting the project, said: “From our time with Steven Hawking to our relationship with AstroAccess, Zero G believes the only limits you have are the ones you place on yourself ”
The only limits you have are the ones you place on yourself
TRUE TEST: Everest climb will push Hari to the absolute limit
HARI Budha Magar is taking on the world’s highest mountain to inspire others and show that anyone can achieve their dreams – however
impossible they may seem
The former British soldier-turned-mountaineer is attempting to make history as the first double above-the-knee amputee to climb Everest
Hari’s 15 years in the British Army’s Ghurka regiment was brought to a brutal end in Afghanistan in 2010, when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded while he was on patrol
He turned to mountaineering in 2016 as part of his recovery Since then he has become the first double above-the-knee amputee to climb the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis (1,345m)
Other successes include Mera Peak (6,476m) and Chulu Far East (6,058m) in Nepal, and Morocco’s Mt Toubkal (4,167m) He has also completed the Everest Base Camp trek
Hari takes on the ultimate test in May and aims through his efforts to inspire veterans and others with a disability
He has launched a £300,000 Crowdfunding campaign to make the expedition possible and is hoping for support from the disability community
“Everest is my ultimate challenge,” said Hari
“The human body is just not designed to operate at that altitude But add to that my challenges with mobility and speed, and there is a whole new layer of difficulty
“It’ll take me longer than able-bodied climbers, so I’m resigned to the fact that I’ll be starting earlier and finishing later We’ve also planned two extra camps if they are needed
“That means more kit, and a greater risk for all of us on the mountain – so we are planning out every detail ”
The 43-year-old is being trained by, and climbing with, Krishna Thapa, former chief
mountain instructor at the SAS and a worldrenowned climber
With reduced mobility, Hari uses three times more energy than the average climber, with Everest expecting to take him three times longer than an able-bodied mountaineer His climb will take him across the South Col route from Nepal, negotiating some of the world’s toughest conditions
Cutting-edge equipment and technology will be important, but this is a true test of Hari’s physical and mental limits
Hari said: “From specially designed crampons to the heated sockets around my stumps and the short prosthetic legs I’ll be using for the climb – we are developing new technologies that will allow me to climb Everest
“But it’s much more than that Everything needs to be adapted to get me onto the mountain, right down to made-to-measure clothing ”
In 2018, Hari joined forces with other climbers and disability charities to successfully overturn
a ban on double amputees and the visually impaired from climbing Everest at Nepal’s supreme court
“It’s already been an adventure getting to this point, but through the climb I hope we can positively transform the way people with a disability are perceived, and how they perceive themselves ”
Krishna said: “I’ve worked with some tough guys in my time, but Hari is up there with the toughest
“If he puts his mind to a task, you are damn sure that he’s going to give it every fibre of his being to get the job done
“There are no words to describe the monumental challenge that he’s undertaking, but we’ll be there every step of the way – and I can’t wait to share that special moment with him on top of the world ”
n To support Hari’s Everest expedition, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/harieverest
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n Scope’s Disabilty Information and Advice Line (DIAL) Freephone 0808 800 3333
THOUSANDS of people living in remote areas are finding their descent into blindness halted and their lives transformed
But this is no miracle
A UK charity is restoring the sight of those living in Cambodia’s poorest regions, who would otherwise be unable to access or afford the treatment needed
Bou Sarron, 62, is one of those to benefit from the work of the Khmer Sight Foundation (KSF)
She said: “I noticed that my vision started to get less clear for distance over many years, but since the last few months it was getting more difficult to see ”
At a free eye screening, organised by the KSF and National Bank of Cambodia, Bou was told she had cataracts in both eyes and would need surgery in the capital, Phnom Penh, four hours drive from her home
Bou said: “I informed the doctors that I
need to take care of my family and could not afford to travel to Phnom Penh or pay for the cataract surgery
“The team assured me that the surgery and everything else would be free of cost ”
Doctors carried out the surgery in two separate operation
A delighted Bou said: “I arrived for a check-up and was surprised to see everything very clearly – including the small letters!
“I was really happy to get my vision back and was instructed by the doctor to take care of my eyes properly
“I went back to my province with better
vision, and now after a few weeks since my surgery I can see much clearer and take care of my family nicely ”
Hers was one of more than 200 procedures conducted under a mission of UK volunteers led by Professor Sunil Shah, a consultant ophthalmologist at Midland Eye Clinic in Solihull
Sunil led his first mission to the country in 2016, providing free eye surgery to those for whom access to eye care would otherwise be impossible
Since then, KSF has performed more than 25,000 surgeries However, it is estimated that more than 180,000 Cambodians are still blind, with 10,000 suffering avoidable blindness each year
KSF is seeking donations, international medically qualified volunteers, and volunteers with no medical experience for a variety of roles
n www gofundme com/f/khmer-sightfoundation-save-sight-in-cambodia
n ANGLESEY: TARAN Tel 01407 721933
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Textphone 01253 476 450
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789 7365
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Tel 01782 683800
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n WEST MIDS Amputee Group 07891 794733; 07585 958322; 07557 228154
SCIENTISTS from the UK and Zambia are teaming up to tackle a condition affecting millions of children in sub-Saharan Africa
Environmental enteropathy, or EE, is a disorder of the gut believed to cause malnutrition and stunted growth in children
Across the world it contributes to around 150 million cases of childhood stunting –which brings with it impaired cognitive ability and reduced school and work performance
A £2 9m collaboration between researchers at the University of Glasgow, the University of Zambia, Queen Mary University of London and Imperial College London is working on a test for EE, which can recognise how much gut damage there is by analysing samples of patients’ breath
VISUAL PROBLEMS
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Rose Ayling-Ellis has gone back to her roots to support young deaf actors wanting to follow in her footsteps
Former EastEnders star Rose has become patron of Deafinitely Youth Theatre, where she started her own
acting journey imore than a decade ago
Deafinitely Theatre is the first deaf-launched and deaf-led professional theatre company in the UK, producing quality bilingual theatre in British Sign Language and spoken English Rose, 28, said: “DYT was my first experience of deaf performing arts and I loved my time there
“It provides such as exciting opportunity to take part in drama activities, attend live theatre, meet other deaf young people and learn about getting involved in theatre ”
Artistic director Paula Garfield added: “Rose provides inspiration, hope and positivity to the deaf community, proving that deaf people can achieve big dreams ”
MEET the ground-breaking band of actors and musicians who are creating a buzz throughout the UK.
Liverpool’s Elektric Apple Theatre Group, who all have learning disabilities or special needs, are one of only a handful of disabled companies to have starred at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Well known for their controversial drama and hard-hitting scripts, their sell-out audiences have included celebrities and the Archbishop of Liverpool
For their latest production, Don’t Stop Believin’ , they have turned their attention to music, with support from Liverpool’s Ovation Performers musical school
Carol Darby, the group’s co-director, said: “The audiences were simply buzzing Our motto is ‘we are elektric to watch’ and this show proved it
“Our actors are just brilliant, and through our performances we want to show to the world just
what people with disabilities can do and achieve ”
Elektric are also on the look out for new talent to join their ranks
“We know there are lots of budding stars out there who would like the chance to get on stage,” said Carol
“So, if you are aged 18 or over and have learning disabilities or special needs – or know someone who has – and are yearning to tread the boards then get in touch with us We hold regular auditions and you are guaranteed a warm welcome ” They meet together every Wednesday and Thursday (10am-3pm) at All Souls Church, Springwood Avenue, Liverpool
There are no fees other than a £7 subscription each session to cover running costs n Contact Carol Darby, tel 07825165066 or Nicola Broadly, 07306 139863 email theelektricappletheatre@googlemail com
n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121
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LOSING a limb and adapting to new ways of doing things can be physically and mentally challenging
That’s not to mention the rehabilitation and recovery needed But adapting to life with an amputation doesn’t stop there Many amputees go on to suffer phantom limb pains
Phantom limb pains are ongoing pains that amputees feel in the amputated extremity, regardless of the amputation level
The pains are caused by the motor signals which continue to transmit messages to the motor cortex in the brain from the amputated limb
More than 80% of amputees experience it The pains can feel like a burning, crushing, tingling, stabbing or pins and needles sensation and can be present for anything from bursts of a few seconds to a few hours.
There is also no way of telling how often the pain will occur and this can vary day-to-day depending on the individual
Although there are treatments to help alleviate the pain, it is very much trial and error and there is no quick fix Mirror therapy and Neuromotus focus on tricking the brain and are theoretically more likely to have more positive outcomes in the longer term.
Options such as medication and transcutaneous electrical nerve simulation tend just to mask the pain as a shorter-term solution, so it’s likely to return
These treatments have not demonstrated particularly good results and are therefore not a reliable source of relief.
However, owing to their ease of use and relative low costs, they are usually tried as a first resort
Owing to its very positive early findings, Neuromotus should be explored as soon as possible if this is available to the individual But currently it is only available privately and therefore the cost implications need to be considered
For patients suffering from phantom limb pain, the first step is to seek assistance from a specialised pain management consultant or GP
With a variety of treatment options available, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin But these specialists will be able to provide guidance and advice on a case-by-case basis to get people the help they need.
MORE than two out of every three people living with chronic pain in the UK have had to visit multiple GPs and wait over a year for a diagnosis
And 28% of sufferers wait three or more years for a diagnosis, according to a new survey
Chronic pain is defined as continuous and long-term pain lasting more than 12 weeks
Today, it’s estimated that a quarter of UK residents have chronic pain
The NHS advises people having difficulty managing pain to get in touch with their GP for a referral to a pain clinic
Pain clinics offer a wide range of treatments and support, including access to medical pain specialists – doctors trained to evaluate, diagnose, treat, and prevent many different types of pain
Those who had accessed a pain specialist saw between one and four healthcare
n Nearly three quarters (73%) of people who visited a pain specialist felt understood and would recommend that others experiencing pain do so
n More than one in five (23%) say they cannot work anymore due to chronic pain
n More than three quarters rely on pain medication (77%)
n Physical therapy was used by more than one quarter (27%)
professionals before being referred, the survey found If the wider UK experience reflects that of the survey, with multiple GP visits needed, this could represent as many as 16 5 million additional appointments – the equivalent of up to 290 years of consultation time
“Chronic pain can dominate the life of patients and drain them both physically and mentally,” said Dr Ashish Gulve, president of the Neuromodulation Society of UK and Ireland
“Our goal has to be to reverse the
n More women take three or more years to get a chronic pain diagnosis (33%), compared to men (22%) Women were also more likely to stop work due to chronic pain (68%), compared to men (52%)
n More British people with pain are aware of the role of a pain specialist (85%) compared to Germany (18%), Italy (24%) and Spain (53%) But despite this, still only
dynamic so it is the patient who is mastering the pain, not vice versa
“There are numerous treatment options which can offer relief and a significant increase in the quality of life It is important that patients are referred to specialised pain services earlier ”
The survey, conducted by biomedical company Boston Scientific, found that a third of people (31%) with pain had secured a referral to a pain specialist at their first consultation
Those who went to a pain specialist earlier, were less likely to have to wait a number of years before receiving a chronic pain diagnosis
“Every person experiences pain differently, which is why personalised treatment and care are so critical,” said Vincent Sourdaine, from Boston Scientific “Our survey highlights unacceptable delays in people being diagnosed with chronic pain, which leads to prolonged agony ”
half of UK people with pain had ever consulted a pain specialist
n About half (48%) said they did not feel comfortable talking about their chronic pain in their professional life
n One quarter (26%) do not feel comfortable discussing their pain with a partner, family or friends
“WE HAD a brilliant response to your article about our Atrial Fibrillation Ambassador programme –and lots of people phoned us to find out how they could become an AF Ambassador Thanks to All Together NOW! many more people with an irregular heart rhythm will now be detected, get the right medication and this will prevent them from having strokes ” NHS Innovation Agency
“All Together
NOW! is a valuable link to hundreds of thousands of disabled people We have used this free charity newspaper to promote the services of our mobility shops and the annual Disability Awareness Day and know that it is reaching huge numbers of people who otherwise would go uniformed ”
Dave Thompson Warrington Disability Partnership
“WE’VE advertised in All Together NOW! for the past 14 years – and haven't missed a single issue It's a fantastic publication that does a brilliant job of presenting disability interests and issues in a positive and inclusive manner We get a great respons to our advertising –and the team is always great to deal with.”
Donald Pow, MD, Allied Mobility
–“WE HAVE proudly advertised in All Together NOW! for over 12 years It is an excellent newspaper, with endless, interesting and helpful facts for all readers
We have always received great responses to our advertisements
The newspaper is freely available to so many people throughout the North West and is appreciated by so many.
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Louise Beardmore, Customer Services Director United Utilities
Steve Morgan CBE, chairman Steve Morgan
Until Mar 11: The Beekeeper of Aleppo Playhouse, Liverpool
Until Mar 11: Disney’s The Lion King Palace, Manchester
Mar 7-11: Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty Empire, Liverpool Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires
Mar 7-9: Zog. Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 7-8: Opera North – The Cunning
Little Vixen The Lowry, Salford
Mar 7: Menopause The Musical 2 Opera House, Manchester
Mar 7: Hansel and Gretel. Theatr
Clwyd Mid Wales Opera’s new production of the classic fairytale
Mar 8-Apr 1: Ladies Day Octagon,
Bolton When Royal Ascot relocates
to York, Pearl, Jan, Shelley and Linda seize the chance to swap their overalls for fancy hats and head off for a day of fizz and fun Heart-warming story of female friendship
Mar 8-11: Macbeth – Imitating the Dog
The Lowry, Salford
Mar 8-9: Something About George: The George Harrison Story Theatr Clwyd
From the creators of Something About Simon – The Paul Simon Story
Mar 8: Living Dangerously with Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 9-12: Death Drop – Back in the Habit
Opera House, Manchester The Sound of Music meets Scary Movie in this jam-packed, riotous comedy
Mar 10-12: Hey Duggie. Regent, Stoke
Mar 9-11: Opera North – Tosca The Lowry, Salford
Mar 10-Apr 8: Bingo Star Royal Court, Liverpool Eyes down and look in for a comedy with a big difference
Mar 10: Opera North – Ariadne auf
Naxos The Lowry, Salford
Mar 10: Total 90s Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 10: The Classic Rock Show Theatr Clwyd Tribute show
Mar 10 Giovanni Pernice – Made in Italy
Grand, Blackpool Strictly Come Dancing
2021 champion on a journey to his home country
Mar 11-12: Tom Allen: Completely Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 11: The Carpenters Story. Grand, Blackpool
Mar 11: You Win Again Pavilion Rhyl Tribute
show
Mar 11: Someone Like You Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 12: Beyond the Barricade. Grand, Blackpool The UK’s longest-running musical concert tour with performers from Les Miserables
Mar 12: The Carpenters Story Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 12: Irish Annie’s Theatre Royal, St
Helens Musical set in an Irish bar
Mar 13: My Dear Old Things – An Evening with Henry Blofeld Octagon, Bolton
Mar 14-18: Blood Brothers. Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 14-18: Home, I’m Darling Theatr Clwyd
Every couple needs a little fantasy to keep their marriage sparkling But behind the gingham curtains, things start to unravel, and being a domestic goddess is not as easy as it seems
Mar 14-18: Rambert Dance in Peaky Blinders
– The Redemption of Thomas Shelby The Lowry, Salford
Mar 14-18: An Inspector Calls Empire, Liverpool Compelling and haunting thriller
Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home Their
BLACKPOOL
Grand Theatre: 01253 290190
BOLTON
Octagon: 01204 520661
CHESTER
Storyhouse: 01244 409 113
CREWE
Lyceum: 01270 368 242
LIVERPOOL
Empire: 08444 999 999
Everyman & Playhouse:
0151 709 4776
Philharmonic Hall:
0151 709 3789
Royal Court: 0870 787 1866
Unity 0151 709 4988
LLANDUDNO
Venue Cymru: 01492 872000
MOLD:
Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565
Opera House: 0870 401 9000
Palace: 0870 401 3000 SALFORD
The Lowry: 0843 208 6000
Access line: 0333 320 2838 NEW BRIGHTON
Floral Pavilion: 0151 666 0000
RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN
The Brindley: 0151 907 8360
ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000 STOKE:
Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627
CHESTER:
Storyhouse: 01244 409 113
Heart-warming
Ladies Day Octagon,
Mar 8-Apr 1
peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman
Mar 14: Rock of Ages Opera House, Manchester Hilarious musical comedy lavished with over 25 classic rock anthems
Mar 14: Tubular Bells Live in Concert – The 50th Anniversary Experience Palace, Manchester
Mar 14: King King plus Glenn Tilbrook Floral Pavilion, New Brighton
Mar 14: Puccini’s Madama Butterfly Grand, Blackpool
Mar 15-17: How Not to Drown Grand, Blackpool The story of a a little boy who wasn’t safe or welcome anywhere in the world
Mar 16-18: The Island The Lowry, Salford
South Africa 1973, Robben Island John and Winston are sharing a cell at the top security prison where Nelson Mandela was held
Mar 16: Lucy Porter: Wake-Up Call
Theatr Clwyd New stand-up show from the TV and radio favourite
Mar 16: Prue Leith: Nothing in Moderation. Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 16: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of the Dubliners Palace, Manchester
Mar 17: The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Storyhouse, Chester Tap your toes with the royalty of the ukulele scene
Mar 17-18: Funnybones The Lowry, Salford Children will live this!
Mar 17-18: Edith Theatr Clwyd 100 years ago, Edith Thompson was found guilty of inciting the murder of her husband On the centenary of her execution, will we see her differently?
Mar 17: Billy Ocean Regent, Stoke
Mar 17: Mike Bubbins: Throwback Pavilion, Rhyl
Mar 17: The Drifters Floral Pavilion, New Brighton
Mar 18: Eclipse: The Pink Floyd Experience Pavilion, Rhyl Tribute show
Mar 18: Some Guys Have All The Luck: The Rod Stewart Story Venue Cymru
Mar 18: Menopause The Musical 2 Regent, Stoke
Mar 18: Sara Pascoe: Success Story. Palace, Manchester
Mar 19: Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells: A 50th Anniversary Celebration Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 19: The Illegal Eagles. Grand, Blackpool Tribute show
Mar 19: Dave Gorman – Powerpoint to the People The Lowry, Salford
Mar 19: Allelujah Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool See Panel, above
Mar 20-25: The Bodyguard – The Musical Empire, Liverpool Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker Each expects to be in charge What they don’t expect is to fall in love
Mar 20: Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells – The 50th Anniversary Celebration Venue Cymru
Mar 21-25: Lemons Lemons
Lemons Lemons Opera House, Manchester Tender and funny romcom about what we say, how we say it, and what happens when we can t say anything anymore
Mar 21-25: Titanic the Musical Grand, Blackpool In the final hours of April 14 1912 the RMS Titanic, on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York, hit an iceberg Mar 21-25: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Playhouse, Liverpool Take a journey to India with an eclectic group of British retirees as they embark on a new life Starring Paul Nicholas and Tessa Peake-Jones
Mar 21: The Story of Guitar Heroes. Theatre
Royal, St Helens
Mar 21: Bootleg Beatles in Concert Venue Cymru
Mar 21: Pam Ayres – Live 2023 Storyhouse, Chester
JENNIFER Saunders, right, Dame Judi Dench, Derek Jacobi and Daid Bradley bring a warm and deeply moving story about old age to Liverpool
When the geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital is threatened with closure, the hospital decides to fight back by galvanizing the local community: they invite a news crew to film their preparations for a concert in honour of the hospital's most distinguished nurse What could go wrong ?
Allelujah celebrates the spirit of the elderly patients while paying tribute to the medical staff battling with limited resources and evergrowing demand
n Allelujah Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Mar 19.
19
1894 Watson is alone His beloved wife Mary and the great Sherlock Holmes are both gone. But London seethes with false reports and rumour It is time to set the record straight So Watson tells his tale a tale of long buried secrets, betrayal and death n Watson: The Final Problem Theatr Clwyd, April 6
Mar 31: The Sound of Springsteen Pavilion, Rhyl Tribute show
Mar 31: Queen Rhapsody. Grand, Blackpool
Tribute show
Apr 1: Islands in the Stream Grand, Blackpool Tribute show
Apr 1: Joe Wells – I Am Autistic The Lowry, Salford Comedy Follow up to the critically acclaimed Joe Wells Doesn’t Want to Do Political Comedy Anymore!”
Apr 1: Welsh National Opera: Blaze of Glory Venue Cymru
Apr 1: English Touring Opera: Il Viaggio a Reims Storyhouse, Chester
Apr 1: Ugly Duckling. Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 1: Billy Ocean Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Apr 2: An Evening with Priscilla Presley
Opera House, Manchester
Apr 2: Vincent Simone – Tango Passions. Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 2: BBC Big Band presents Sound of Cinema Storyhouse, Chester
Apr 2: Chris McCausland: Speaky Blinder. Pavilion, Rhyl
Apr 3-15: The Bodyguard Palace, Manchester Smash-hit musical Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love
Apr 3-8: The Mousetrap Regent, Stoke
Apr 4-8: Mog – The Forgetful Cat The Lowry, Salford
Apr 5-8: Shrek the Musical Grand, Blackpool Musical
Apr 5: Yippee Ki Yay Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 6: Kate Moss OBE Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 6: Seven Drunken Nights: The Story of The Dubliners Venue Cymru
Mar 22-Apr 1: My Fair Lady Palace, Manchester Lavish production of Lerner & Loewe’s world-famous musical
Mar 22-25: Little Women Theatr Clwyd One actress One musician One enchanting new adaptation Holed up in the attic of her Massachusetts home just after the American Civil War, Jo struggles with writer ’s block, until the arrival of an old friend helps her to unlock a lifetime of memories
Mar 23-25: Showstopper! Theatr
Clwyd A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show as audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into all-singing, all dancing productions with hilarious results
Mar 23-24: The Addams Family
Venue Cymru
Mar 23: Silver & Gold Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 23: One Night of Billy Joel Theatre
Royal, St Helens Tribute show
Mar 24-25: Mind Mangler The Lowry, Salford
Join the “Mind Mangler” as he returns to the stage following a reasonably good two-night run at the Luton Holiday Inn conference centre, suite 2b His new solo spectacular is predicted to spiral into chaos as he attempts to read your mind
Mar 24: Luther Theatre Royal, St Helens
Luther Vandross celebration
Mar 28-Apr 1: Cake: The Marie Antoinette
Playlist The Lowry, Salford New musical that combines rap and RnB with 18th century France to retell a story that sparked a revolution
Mar 24-25: Peter Pan Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 24: Simon Bodkin – Screwed Up
Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 25: The Who UK – Live Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Tribute show
Mar 25: Tom Houghton: Absolute Shambles
Storyhouse, Chester
Mar 25: The Rolling Stones Story Lyceum, Crewe Tribute show
Mar 26: That’ll Be The Day. Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 26: Ellen Kent’s La Boheme Regent, Stoke
Mar 26: Blackpool Symphony Orchestra
Grand, Blackpool
Mar 27: Irish Annie’s. Grand, Blackpool New musical comedy set in an Irish bar
Mar 28: Queenz – The Show with Balls
Grand, Blackpool Tribute show
Mar 28-Apr 1: Heathers The Musical Theatr Clwyd Wickedly funny based on one of the greatest cult-teen films of all-time Audio described /
touch tours Mar 29; Captioned Apr 1
Mar 29-31: The Magic Flute Venue Cymru
Mar 29-30: Tales from Acorn Wood Grand, Blackpool Packed full of toe-tapping songs and puppetry
Mar 29: Queenz Lyceum, Crewe Tribute show
Mar 30-31: Miss Nobodies Grand, Blackpool
A century of women’s stories brough to life by Black Liver
Mar 30: Menopause The Musical 2 Lyceum, Crewe
Mar 30: Beethoven’s Eroica
Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Mar 30: Demon Dentist Regent, Stoke
Mar 30: The Last Days of Disco Theatre
Royal, St Helens
Mar 31: Paul Young – Behind the Lens Theatre Royal, St Helens
Mar 31: On Tour with Elvis – Michael King Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Tribute show
Mar 31: English Touring Opera: Lucrezia Borgia Storyhouse, Chester Known as one of history’s most famous poisoners, Lucrezia is a complex woman in a dangerous situation
Mar 31: The Mersey Beatles Theatr Clwyd
Mar 31: Dave Gorman: Powerpoint To The People Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 6: Watson: The Final Problem. Theatr Clwyd 1894 Watson is alone His beloved wife Mary and the great Sherlock Holmes are both gone But London seethes with false reports and rumour It is time to set the record straight
Apr 6: Joss Arnott Dance: The Tin Man Storyhouse, Chester
Apr 7: Chris McCausland: Speaky Blindre Storyhouse, Chester
Apr 8-9: Tales from Acorn Wood. Storyhouse, Chester
Apr 8-9: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Apr 8: Shania – 25 Live Come on Over Lyceum, Crewe Tribute show
Apr 8: Showaddywaddy – The 50th Anniversary Concert Tour Venue Cymru
Apr 10: Rock Icons Grand Blackpool Tribute show
Apr 11: Tin Man Grand, Blackpool Joss
Arnott Dance presents a magical new retelling of a classic story, seen through the rusty eyes of the Tin Man and their journey to finding their heart and happiness
Apr 11-15: Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) Storyhouse, Chester Unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic lov story
Apr 11-15: Heathers The Musical Regent, Stoke
Apr 12-22: The Time Machine Octagon
Bolton Riotous re-telling of the classic H G Wells novel , zipping from the present to a Victorian parlour in 1895
Apr 12: Menopause the Musical 2 Grand, Black
Continued Page 22
n Continued from Page 21
Apr 13: ELO Again. Venue Cymru Tribute
show
Apr 14: ELO Again Grand Blackpool Tribute
show
Apr 15: DIVAS Pavilion, Rhyl Tribute show
Apr 15: An Evening of Burlesque. Lyceum, Crewe
Apr 16: Wind in the Willows Octagon, Bolton
Apr 17-23: The Commitments Empire, Liverpool Smash hit musical
Apr 18-22: The Beekeeper of Aleppo. The Lowry, Salford Audio described / touch tour
Apr 19; signed Apr 22
Apr 19: The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race UK
Season Four Tour Opera House, Manchester
Apr 20-22: Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story.
Opera House, Manchester
Apr 21-May 27: A Thong for Europe
Royal Court, Liverpool
Apr 21: The Illegal Eagles Pavilion, Rhyl Tribute show
Apr 22: The Magic of Motown William Aston Hall, Wrexham
Apr 22: The Great American Songbook
Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Apr 23: Johannes Radebe: Freedom
Unleashed Empire, Liverpool
Apr 24-29: Titanic The Musical. Regent, Stoke
Apr 24: Mike and the Mechanics Philharmonic
Hall Liverpool
Apr 24: The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race UK
Season Four Tour Empire, Liverpool
Apr 25-May 6: Quality Street.
Octagon, Bolton Comedy stirring a good helping of Yorkshire wit from the retired workers of the Halifax factory where Quality Street chocolates have been proudly made since 1936
Apr 25-29: Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead The Lowry, Salford Story set in the depths of winter in a small community on a remote Polish mountainside Audio described / touch tour Apr 26; captioned (English and Polish) Apr 29
Apr 25-29: Macbeth (imitating the dog)
Playhouse, Liverpool
Apr 25: Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story
Grand, Blackpool
Apr 26: The Legends of American Country
Floral Pavilion, New Brighton
Apr 26: Johannes Radebe: Freedom
Unleashed Opera House,
Apr 27-May 13: Truth Theatr Clwyd Five teasing plays Audio described May 6, 12; signed May 5, 10; Captioned – all shows.
Apr 27-29: Demon Dentist Empire, Liverpool
Apr 27: Beyond the Barricade Lyceum
Crewe
Apr 27: Steve Steinman’s Anything for Love –
The Meat Loaf Story. Opera House, Manchester
Apr 27: An Evening of Burlesque Theatre
Royal, St Helens
Apr 28: Money for Nothing Lyceum, Crewe
Trubute show
Apr 29: Mother Goose – Adult Panto Theatre
Royal, St Helens
Apr 30: That’ll Be the Day Venue Cymru
Apr 30: Big Girls Don’t Cry Grand, Blackpool
Celebrating the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)
A fantastic opportunity to expand your finances arrives; you could greatly profit from venturing into unfamiliar territory Tempers will be running high on the 11th, especially with neighbours and family members The New Moon on the 21st is ideal for investing in your appearance Splurge on new clothes, a salon visit, or both Significant changes are marked for your social life on the 23rd April’s full moon on the 6th prompts you to make a difficult relationship decision Separating from a romantic or business partner will be sad, but that’s better than always feeling angry Take this opportunity to restore your emotional health A fantastic opportunity to raise your profile arrives
TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)
A lovely opportunity to rest, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life arrives; indulge your sensual side Resist the temptation to contradict an influential expert on the 16th; stay in their good graces On the 21st the New Moon beckons you to recharge your spiritual batteries with solitary pleasures As April arrives so will people become more receptive to your ideas; it’s a good time to make a presentation or request Don’t argue with a powerful individual, even if you know you are right and they are wrong Your earning power becomes much stronger on the 11th; treat yourself to some luxuries that were previously out of reach
GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)
Avoid being aggressive with a kind authority figure It’s better to listen more than you speak; err on the side of silence The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for going to a party or joining a club You’ll enjoy expanding your social circle Your belief system will undergo a significant change on the 23rd A money-making opportunity is worth pursuing on the 25th Dwelling on negative thoughts during April will keep you from venturing into unknown territory When you assume everything will work out to your advantage, obstacles will disappear from your path You turn heads wherever you go on the 11th; someone with an exotic background will be especially attentive
CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)
Don’t make work a bigger priority than a close relationship on the 16th; your loved one really needs your support on this challenging day On the 21st, the New Moon paves the way for an exciting opportunity Your sex appeal will soar on the 23rd; all eyes will be on you on this magical day April’s Full Moon on the 6th encourages you to embrace your independence and establish a home life that brings you joy A fabulous opportunity falls into your lap on the 11th Don’t give in to your fears, especially regarding travel It’s important to expand your horizons Doing something out of character will be lots of fun on the 29th
LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)
A financial windfall gives you more freedom to pursue your hobbies If you’re single, you’ll start looking for a serious relationship Your charisma turns heads on the 15th; you’ll have your choice of admirers on this magical day It’s also an excellent time to make money from artistic ventures Use the New Moon on the 21st to explore greener pastures April’s Full Moon on the 6th exposes rifts in a friendship It may be time to move away from toxic people who mock your natural enthusiasm The 11th is one of the happiest days of the year for you The Solar Eclipse on the 20th finds you expanding your horizons
April This is one of those times when your stubborn nature does more harm than good Strive to be a little more flexible The chance to make a special purchase falls into your lap on the 11th Take the plunge; you won’t regret it
SAGITTARIUS
(November 23rd-December 21st)
A romantic encounter makes you feel like you’re walking on air If you’re single, your chances of meeting someone special are very high, especially if you venture out to a place you’ve never been before On the 21st, the New Moon inspires you to take a creative, emotional risk Talking to a respected teacher gives you a new lease on life April’s full Moon on the 6th warns against spreading yourself too thin on the social front It’s better to spend quality time with true friends than accept every party invitation Your love life improves by leaps and bounds on the 11th If you’re looking for love, you’ll find it with a witty flirt On the 20th, the Solar Eclipse inspires a creative project or love affair Trust your heart over your head
CAPRICORN
VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)
You’ll find a brilliant solution to a stubborn problem An authority figure will pressure you to accept an unpleasant assignment on the 17th; protect your interests The 18th is good for discussing a sensitive topic with someone who is close to your heart Be brutally honest The New Moon on the 21st brings an opportunity to earn some easy income Travel plans could be delayed during April It may be best to stay put for the sake of your health On the 14th, your business or romantic partner will express jealousy over all the time you spend at work
Try to strike a healthier balance between your personal and professional lives
LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)
You experience some exciting growth on the romantic front in early March This is a great time to start a relationship, get engaged, or exchange vows Resist the temptation to fill your days with more work; you need to strike a better balance between your personal and professional lives Don’t let your family have too much influence over your love life on the 16th Although their concern is touching, you know what’s best for you regarding romance Your desire to have fun is stronger than a need to be financially responsible in April The 11th finds you embarking on a grand adventure; studying a subject that you love makes you glow with happiness
SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)
A serious talk with a relative will be productive; be honest but fair Spending more time on creative pursuits will be rewarding The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for beginning a fitness regimen Changes to your domestic life are inevitable on the 23rd when you become determined to find a home that supports your emotional and physical needs Prepare for your personal philosophy to change A passionate argument with your best friend, business partner, or amour will make things tricky in
(December 22nd-January 20th)
Happy news about your family is cause for celebration Obey the impulse to give a relative a generous financial gift; they’ll greatly appreciate it Moving forward, your priority will be making better use of your time Resist the urge to make a relative feel guilty for their choices on the 16th Emotional manipulation will undermine your relationship and cause resentment During early April resist the temptation to manipulate someone If they want to exercise their independence, let them Beware of overindulging in food and drink on the 14th, as this can cloud your thinking On the 20th, the Solar Eclipse brings a lovely opportunity to make some home improvements or buy a big piece of property
(January 21st-February 19th)
Sticking to your principles will be advantageous, and spending more quality time at home will be pleasurable On the 21st, the New Moon inspires you to take a short trip or class for the sake of mental stimulation The 23rd brings a rare opportunity to overhaul your image It’s a great time for change A heart-toheart talk with a relative will take you by surprise on the 30th A forbidding attitude toward a relative causes tension at home Stop imposing your beliefs on this family member; the two of you have very different needs April’s Full Moon brings disappointing news about travel or educational opportunity Always remember that when one door closes, a window always opens
PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)
Your financial situation dramatically is about to improve Brilliant ideas for making more money will abound on the 21st; jot down these brainstorms before they’re forgotten An intense period of spiritual growth begins on the 23rd Be ready to abandon beliefs that no longer serve you You’ll be filled with lots of energy for hobbies, romance, and sports on the 25th A desire to travel will surge as April arrives, but you may be hesitant to make reservations The 7th is perfect for indulging your love of music, film, and art Working on a creative project of your own will also be rewarding A moneymaking opportunity beyond your wildest dreams will arrive; say yes to this exciting adventure
JOSEPH BANKS started life, in 1743, with many advantages – and made the most of them
He went to Harrow, Eton and Oxford, inherited the family estate in Lincolnshire and became a baronet
His passion for finding new plants drove him around the world, from Iceland to South America, then to South Africa and Australia on Captain James Cook’s legendary first voyage from 1768-71
He returned home to immediate fame, bringing 30,000 plant specimens with him, including agapanthus, mimosa, eucalyptus,
acacia and the protea genus named after him, Banksia, with astonishing cone-shaped flower heads, sometimes on 100-foot plants
Around 80 species bear his name, among them a pale pink hydrangea, Grevillea banksii, Astelia banksii and the jack pine, Pinus banksiana Rosa banksiae is named after his wife
Sir Joseph Banks died in 1820, after making the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew the world’s leading botanical garden, holding the presidency of the Royal Society for 41 years, and writing his 34-volume Florilegium
VIVID: Berries of the female
RIGHT:
SWEET-SCENTED, colourful and not too large – skimmias are ideal shrubs for small gardens with special appeal in the chilly days of late winter and early spring
The flowers and berries create interest for many months and even after that the shapely, evergreen leaves remain attractive in their contrasting shades of green
Their tidy dome shape normally reaches a maximum of 1 2m (4ft) in height and spread
To get the best from them, you generally need a pair, male and female, which make a happy couple whatever the weather
The male’s pollen fertilises the female’s flowers to produce bunches of scarlet berries, vivid against a background of light green foliage from autumn
These berries, often used in floral arrangements, make excellent substitutes for holly berries in Christmas wreaths and decorations The berries last for months and then the male bush, which
bears rich, deep green leaves with edges and veins of smoky red, forms clusters of winecoloured flower buds
When the buds burst open in late winter they reveal white flowers and release a delicious fragrance If the two sexes are grown separately, the female produces only flowers, white and fragrant but quite small
Skimmias were introduced from the Far East more than 150 years ago and take their name from the Japanese word for the plant, shikimi
The main garden species is Skimmia japonica, from which many varieties have been bred Two of the best varieties are the female Veitchii, also sold as Foremanii, and the male Rubella
Other excellent female varieties are Rogersii, a
compact form with twisted leaves and large fruits; the diminutive Bowle’s Dwarf Female; Fructu Albo, small with white berries; Nymans and Scarlet Queen, taller than most and noted for prolific scarlet berries The best males include Rogersii Nana, Bronze Knight, a large shrub; Fragrans; and Bowles Dwarf Male
Skimmia laureola is a low, spreading shrub with very dark leaves, sweetly scented flowers and black berries If you have room for only a small shrub or want to grow one in a tub or pot, where a skimmia can look superb, choose Skimmia reevesiana, also sold as Robert Fortune, a small, compact form which has flowers of both sexes and therefore produces berries without the need for a pollination partner
Skimmias like some shade so are ideal for growing close to deciduous trees where they can look good in winter and spring, then benefit from the dappled shadow in summer
However, they can be grown in the open as long as they are not exposed to direct sunshine all day They grow easily from cuttings taken in summer
FLOWERS: Divide the roots of snowdrops and winter aconites that have grown into congested clumps when the flowers have faded and while the leaves are still green When the flowers of daffodils and other spring bulbs fade but, again, while the leaves are still green, water them with a liquid feed to build up the bulbs’ strength for next year
SHRUBS: Prune winter jasmine, Jasminum nudiflorum, when the yellow star-like flowers die Cut back all the side shoots which have flowered, leaving just 3cm-4cm (about 1 5in) of shoot
Towards the end of March, prune mop-head hydrangeas back to a strong, outwardfacing bud 15cm (6in) from the ground, and the butterfly bush, buddleia, down to 30cm (12in) from the ground This will ensure really strong new shoots for flowering this year
LAWNS: Keep lawns clear of twigs, wormcasts and other debris by brushing them off Do not walk on lawns when frost is on the ground If new growth is beginning, give a light trim now and In April, spike lawns, especially if they are damp or moss Apply a spring lawn feed, mosskiller or lawn weedkiller as appropriate
PONDS: Check electrical equipment and cables
Remove slippery algae from paths and decking
In April, as the weather becomes milder, try fish with a little food but if they ignore it remove the food and wait another fortnight
VEGETABLES: Plant onion and shallot sets in March Sow broad beans in March and peas, carrots and beetroots in April
FRUIT: Prune gooseberries and redcurrants if you missed them in the autumn, aiming to produce a goblet-shaped bush Where apples or pears have been infested with grubs, spray with an insecticide when the blossoms are in bud and again when the petals have fallen
HOUSEPLANTS: Remove fading flowers and dying leaves Give plants as much light as possible but in most cases only water when the compost surface is starting to dry out Exceptions are azalea, cyclamen and maidenhair fern, which prefer more moisture
Can you find the celebrity name hidden in this Starspot Crossword? Complete the crossword in the normal way then make a note of the letters contained in all the squares which are marked with shaded stars. These letters will make an anagram of the name you are looking for.
SPRING 2023
E ach question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.
QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: Which is the fastest pace of a horse?
A Trot
B Canter
C Jog
D Gallop
QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which tree produces acorns?
A Oak B Elm
C Beech
D Ash
QUESTION 3 – for 3 points:
According to the Bible, from which direction did the Magi come to witness the new-born Jesus?
A North
B West
C South
D East
1. Coal bag (4)
2. Souvenir (5)
3. Scope (5)
4. Argent (6)
6. Passage through (7)
7. Reserved (8)
8. Tropical grass (6)
13. Dove’s call (3)
14. Disclaim (4)
16. Incentive (8)
18. Dull colour (4)
20. Sure (7)
21. Rectangular (6)
23. Tiny child (3)
25. Large wave (6)
28. Silky fabric (5)
29. Sign on (5)
31. Trudge (4)
QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: Which singer achieved three consecutive No 1 hits in the UK singles charts of 2012?
A Cher Lloyd B Pixie Lott
C Rita Ora
D Jessie J
QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: How many pieces are there in a set of dominoes?
A Thirty-six
B Twenty-eight
C Twenty-four
D Eighteen
QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which metal is used in the process of galvanizing?
A Lead
B Aluminium
C Zinc
D Tin
QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which country’s yachting team in the 2013 America’s Cup lost 9-8 in the first-to-nine challenge despite once having led 8-1?
A Italy
B Australia
C Sweden
D New Zealand
QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Which of these countries lies on the east coast of the Red Sea?
A Saudi Arabia
B Egypt
C Sudan
D Ethiopia
QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Which 19th century poet wrote To
A Keats
B Shelley
C Byron
D Tennyson
A Skylark?
QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: Which herb is used to flavour pickled cucumbers?
A Fennel
B Bay
C Dill
D Rosemary
QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Which US president formally announced the end of the Cold War with Russia in 1989?
A Jimmy Carter
B George H.W. Bush
C Ronald Reagan
D Bill Clinton
QUESTION 12 – for 12 points:
What was Rod Stewart’s first UK No 1 hit record?
A You Wear It Well
B Sailing
C Maggie May
D You’re In My Heart
QUESTION 13 – for 13 points:
Actor and singer Jared Leto won an Oscar for his role in which 2013 film?
A American Hustle
B 12 Years a Slave
C Gravity
D Dallas Buyers Club
QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Whose short story inspired Hitchcock’s film
The Birds?
A Edgar Allan Poe
B Daphne du Maurier
C Ernest Hemingway
D Somerset Maugham
QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Where did Grace Darling and her father rescue the crew of the Forfarshire in 1838?
A The Farne Islands
B The Orkneys
C Flamborough Head
D The Goodwin Sands
THERE is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not have to guess.
EASYDIFFICULT
SUDOKU 95 3 86 2 18 5 25 7 7 9 1 3 4 5 7 4 9 68 8 5 9 9 12 37 164 9
FILL in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it. Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners. You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.
Telephone dialling pads combine several letters on one key. Here we have encoded several sets of words or items by using numbers rather than letters. Then we have divided them into groups of three characters and run all the names one after another to make your task a little more difficult. Can you crack the codes?
1.
EACH number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off.
Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.
As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.
MISSING LINK
Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT – DOOR – MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out a seabird.
LIGHT – – – PAL
DRUG – – – – FRIENDLY
IN – – – – OUT
COAL – – – – ALARM
AMERICAN – – – – – – SUMMER
WHOLE – – – – – – ONE
The year was 1994. Transformer Host + I = Hoist.
tarting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 15
Can you place the six dominoes (right) into the grid below in such a way that the number of spots in all four rows across and all four rows down totals 9?
Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition?
In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?
1. More than twenty anti-terrorist experts are killed in a helicopter crash on the Mull of Kintyre.
2. The first National Lottery draw takes place on BBC television.
3. Fragments of the comet Shoemaker-Levy are observed from earth crashing into the surface of Jupiter.
WAS IT?
a) 1994; b) 1995; c) 1996; d) 1997; e) 1998.
1) The name under which lawn tennis was patented in 1874, and by which it was quite widely known for a time;
2) Zinc blende, a lustrous black or brown crystalline zinc sulphide;
3) A minute body on the surface of a sea urchin, thought to be a sense organ.
a Date
Link pen; user; ll;fi re;fi Indian; number. Seabird: n.puffi
6. dictionary; whiteboard; desk; pencil; bag; book; table; ag;fl chair; register; folder; ruler; poster; rucksack; pen; map.
5. Homer; Popeye; Leela; Charlie Brown; Snoopy; Marge; Pink Panther; Jerry; Road Runner; Bugs Bunny; Fry; Peter n.Griffi
3. paper; abstract; sketch; still life; landscape; easel; portrait; canvas; fresco; oil; watercolour; nude; cubism; mural.
2. Anne; Elizabeth; William; Edward; Andrew; Beatrice; Charles; Alexandra; Eugenie; Zara; Harry; Philip; George; Margaret.
1. saddle; hand; girth; farrier; lly;fi stirrup; fetlock; gymkhana; bridle; hoof; stable; hack; dressage; foal; mane; reins.
Dialling Codes
Word Wizard No 1 is correct. Sphairistike was the orginal name for tennis.
4. signal; engine; tunnel; track; platform; sleeper; carriage; driver; station; buffet car; brake van; timetable; ticket.
Star Name: EMILY BLUNT
Oblong; 23 Tot; 25 Roller; 28 Satin; 29 Enrol; 31 Plod.
Stimulus; 18 Grey; 20 Certain; 21
Down – 1 Sack; 2 Relic; 3 Range; 4 Silver; 6 Transit; 7 Reticent; 8 Bamboo; 13 Coo; 14 Deny; 16
Moral; 27 Oyster; 30 Owl; 32 Learn; 33 Literal; 34 Sunk; 35 Wrangled.
Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Surprise; 5 Star; 9 Colonel; 10 Apart; 11 Vim; 12 Accede; 15 Basic; 17 Ergo; 19 Tycoon; 22 Rotten; 24 Byre; 26
SOMEWHERE in the shadow of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral lies Sarah Biffin, whose talent as an artist saw her work exhibited alongside the greatest painters of her day despite being born without hands or arms
Born in 1784, the adult Sarah would grow to only 37 inches in height, with limited use of her legs and feet, her disability the result of a condition later recognised as phocomelia
But from an early age she refused to allow disability to get the better of her, using her mouth and shoulders to become an expert in needlework and develop a passion for art However, such a young woman was vulnerable to those who might seek to exploit her circumstances, and at the age of 12, Sarah’s family apprenticed her to a travelling artist called Dukes, who agreed to develop her artistic skills
In return, she found herself tied to a 16-year contract, which involved exhibiting her talents in a freak show Sarah ended up in her own show booth, alongside the Fat Woman, the Human Skeleton, and the PigFaced Lady, where she signed autographs and painted delicate and beautiful miniature landscapes
Dukes charged admission fees for people to watch her sew, paint, and draw, but she also held her own exhibitions, at which she sold her paintings and signatures
Sarah also drew
landscapes and painted miniature portraits on ivory, which were sold for three guineas each But none of the money she earned was paid directly to her; it all went to Dukes who became very wealthy because of the diminutive artist Sarah was only paid £5 a year by him
However, in 1812, her contract expired and so she was able to escape Dukes’ clutches Sarah immediately made her way to London determined to seek her fortune
Here, she set up a studio in Bond Street where she quickly became a popular, fashionable, and highly-respected celebrity
At last she had a comfortable and secure life In 1821, her talent was officially recognised when she was presented with a medal by the Society of Arts
She was also patronised by King George III, George IV, William IV, Queen Victoria, and many other titled and illustrious patrons, including the King of Holland, and her work
SARAH lies buried in St James’s Burial Ground, at the foot of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, but I cannot trace where, exactly, her grave site is located And I really have searched! However, supposedly inscribed on her tombstone, are the following words:
DEPOSITED BENEATH are the remains of SARAH BIFFIN who was
was shown at the prestigious Royal Academy of Arts
But Sarah wanted to improve her fortunes further To do so she recognised that she really should travel to the place that was already being hailed as “the most important town in the British Empire” outside London
So in 1842 she came to Liverpool Now 58, Sarah held many exhibitions in the town, including one at the Collegiate School in Shaw Street, Everton
She continued to paint famous people, including the virtuoso violinist Paganini, on one of his many visits to Liverpool; and Charles Dickens, who refers to Sarah in his novels, Including Nicholas Nickleby and Martin Chuzzlewit
Sarah finally settled at number 8 Duke Street in the town, and continued to sell her paintings
But fashions change and her fortunes waned Money ran out, and she became
DISABLED artist
Sarah Biffin’s extraordinary life took her from freak show novelty to an artist feted by kings, who at the height of her fame chose Liverpool to ply her trade and live out her days under the wing of a famous city family
Few have passed through the vale of life so much the child of hapless fortune as the deceased, and yor possessor of mental endowments of no ordinary kind
Gifted with singular talents as an artist, thousands have been gratified with the able productions of her pencil, while her versatile conversation and agreeable manners elicited the admiration of all
dependent on a pension of £12 a year that had been granted to her by King William IV
The artist’s eyesight began to fail and she became increasingly physically infirm Fortunately, the wealthy Rathbone family, who were respected local philanthropists in Liverpool, arranged a public subscription that raised enough money to buy Sarah an annuity
Her illnesses finally overcame her and, eight years after arriving in Liverpool, she died aged 66
While most of her art work was either lost, or is kept in unknown private hands, some of Sarah’s miniatures survive to this day, and they really are quite beautiful
For a long time after her death, Sarah’s work faded into obscurity, until late last year when an exhibition of her work in London celebrated the life of an artist who broke down the barriers she faced as a disabled woman
EX-GREAT Britain blind
football captain Dave Clarke has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association.
Clarke succeeds Mike Sharrock who steps down after more than four years at the helm
He said: “It is an honour to join at such an exciting time as we build momentum towards Paris 2024
“My experience as a Paralympian has shown me the unique power sport can have to change attitudes and to boost physical and mental wellbeing for everybody ”
LIVERPOOL FC fans are among those calling on organisers of next year ’s Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris to learn from the “disgraceful” events at last year ’s UEFA Champions League final
Association (LDSA), was among the crowd in Paris
He said: “It was only thanks to the restraint and actions shown by [Liverpool] supporters that a major disaster and probably a death were averted No one in authority helped our disabled supporters
ALFIE Hewett extended his record as the world’s most successful men’s wheelchair singles player at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam
The world No 1 beat Martin de la Puente (Spain) 6-0, 7-5 to wrap up his fourth title in a row at the ITF 1 Series wheelchair tournament and ATP 500 event
Hewett and Gordon Reid also beat De la Puente and Argentina’s Gustavo Fernandez to clinch their third men’s doubles title in Rotterdam in four years
Reigning Australian Open champion Hewett, who has now won three of the four tournaments he’s played this season, said: “I hope to be back next year for number five ”
A damning independent review into the game between Liverpool and Real Madrid at the Stade de France found that failings by football’s European governing body UEFA and French authorities caused “suffering for many fans” through severe congestion and almost turned into a “mass fatality catastrophe”
The tear gas and pepper spray used by police in several areas outside the stadium affected many disabled fans, says the review report, with some ending up separated from their companions and “placed into extremely dangerous, vulnerable, and frightening situations”
The review cleared Liverpool fans of any blame, after they had been previously been accused of being responsible for the dangerous levels of congestion by UEFA, French ministers and others
Now the Level Playing Field (LPF) charity representing disabled supporters in England and Wales is demanding action be taken to ensure there is no repetition of the debacle at next year ’s events
Owain Davies, the charity’s chief executive, said:
“We are pleading to the organisers of both events to learn from the unfortunate events in May 2022 ”
Ted Morris, chair of Liverpool Disabled Supporters
“The saddest thing about this is that our disabled fans arrived in Paris to attend a football festival, but at that very moment, they are in the middle of a carnival of horrors, which will leave them with longterm mental scars ”
Mr Morris also gave evidence on behalf of disabled Liverpool fans at a hearing last June as part of an inquiry by the French Senate,
He said the authorities had “treated disabled fans like animals” and the treatment they received “will be to the eternal shame of all those in authority who were there to protect us They were responsible for our safety, but they failed
He added: “One of the lessons that must be taken from the report is that in terms of making European football accessible, UEFA has much work to do
“We ask that they work with us and seek our expertise to address these injustices and give young disabled supporters from all corners of Europe hope that one day they can follow their football team in the same way that non-disabled children can
“Equality and fairness should not be a fight; it must be a right
“With the knowledge of the terrifying experiences disabled supporters experienced in Paris, this is not and should not be an impossible dream ”
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