All Together NOW! Winter 2024-25

NEVER NEVER GIVEIN GIVE IN

‘We are excited to be involved in such an impor tant project’

Medicash funds new baby role

THE Liverpool-based Medicash Foundation is funding a new nursing post at Alder Hey children’s hospital that will support more mums wanting to breast-feed

As part of the Foundation’s £2 1 million initiative aimed at bolstering NHS hospitals and facilities across the North West, the new position will play a pivotal role in the Baby Friendly Initiative

Originally, the BFI standards were developed to support families and babies in their first days and weeks of life, particularly those accessing neonatal care

However, staff at Alder Hey,

alongside other national experts, has been working with the BFI to adapt the standards for older babies and infants in children’s services Nathan Askew, chief nurse at Alder Hey, said: “All children deserve the best start in life, and we know from research the vital role that breastfeeding can play in this Breast milk not only contains essential nutrition for infants but also benefits the immune system and strengthens parental bonding ” Although breastfeeding rates in the UK are rising, they remain lower than in many European countries, with Liverpool falling below the national average Sue Weir, chief executive of

health cash plan provider Medicash and Medicash Foundation Trustee, added: “We are excited to be involved in such an important project, that will have a real and positive impact on the lives of future generations in Liverpool and beyond

“This builds on our recent partnership with the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre and we look forward to working with more hospitals across the North West over the coming years

“I’m delighted that we are able to fund such important projects and witness the incredible impact they have within both their local communities and further afield ”

Historic village gets together a grand plan

LANS for the continuing development and restoration of an historic Wirral village have been revealed

Wirral charity Autism Together is keen for both the people in its care and the wider community to benefit after it was gifted three listed buildings in the centre of Bromborough Pool Village

Residents of the village, created in the 19th Century for workers at Price’s candle factory, were asked what changes and improvements they would like to see

After digesting their views, the charity devised a five-year plan, which includes the repair and refurbishment of the old village school, now the Enterprise Centre,for the use both of people supported by the charity and local residents

The existing car park area is set to be redesigned to create a one-way system with drop-off area for people accessing the charity’s day services, to minimise the impact of traffic on the village

New activities for service users will include an exercise zone with sunken trampolines, all-weather track for cycling, and outdoor gym equipment

For villagers, a Community Growing Space will allow residents to rent small plots of land, and an Urban Garden Zone will be created at the edge of the village

Chris Cullen, Autism Together ’s director of estates, said: “We plan to raise over £400k for the Enterprise Centre’s exterior work alone, ensuring this beautiful structure, which holds many memories for the local community, remains an important part of the village ”

‘These adverts are just insulting’

ADVERTS featuring disabled models and athletes are at best a token effort and at worst insulting

That’s the conclusion of a new book, which argues pro-diversity advertising campaigns do not reflect the reality of most disabled people’s lives Liverpool Hope University researcher Dr Ella Houston’s book, Advertising Disability, says after decades of reinforcing stigmatising attitudes towards disability, progress has been made

Advertisers have increasingly aimed to reflect a more inclusive society, with some of the world’s biggest brands including disabled models and athletes in campaigns

But Dr Houston says although there are more models with physical and sensory impairments in ads, people with cognitive impairments, dwarfism, and chronic health conditions are rare

To make matters worse, most pro-diversity advertisements are inaccessible to disabled audiences, with the brands they promote failing to make any deeper commitments to advocating for disabled people’s rights

Dr Houston says: “Until the advertising industry commits to hiring more disabled people, consults disability activists, ensures advertisements include accessibility features, and avoids only featuring disabled people in one-off campaigns, its approach to inclusion will continue to be tokenistic rather than transformative ”

Sound idea

A NEW world of colour and texture could soon be available to blind people through software that describes what a camera records

The tool, called WorldScribe, uses artificial intelligence to interpret the camera images and produce text and audio descriptions

Sam Rau, who participated in a WorldScribe trial, said: “I don’t have any concept of sight, but when I tried it I got a picture of the real world, and I got excited by all the colour and texture that I wouldn’t have any access to otherwise ”

LEFT, Amanda Jones, Alder Hey’s philanthropy manager, and Sue Weir, Medicash boss

Thanks for the memories, Gordon

SAD to report the death of journalist, author and great friend of All Together NOW! – Gordon Morris

Gordon joined the Liverpool Daily Post at the beginning of the 70s He went on to set up his own communications business, Plain Speaking, and wrote a book on ageing

He created two books that were very special to him – and to all his colleagues at the Daily Post & Echo

The two volumes of Post & Echoes comprise colourful tales of staff journalists’ memories of events that occurred across the region – both poignant

Gordon with copies of his book

and hilarious – from the 1960s, 70s and 80s, plus countless striking photographs On hearing the struggles we were having

to keep our newspaper alive, Gordon generously split all the proceeds between the ATN charity and children’s hospice, Claire House

“All Together NOW! is a doing a fantastic job in the community,” he’d say “The only paper of its kind in the UK, and produced by a Liverpool charity, it’s a tremendous advert for the newspaper industry ” He carried on giving us tons of moral support – even during his long illness

Gordon’s wife, Jane, said: “Gordon got involved in as many things as possible And he loved keeping in touch with old friends

“ ‘I just want to contribute’ was his mantra and he spent a life doing just that ”

NEVER GIVE IN! NEVER GIVE IN!

NEVER give in

Sometimes that’s easier said than done

For 19 years, your free All Together NOW! newspaper has battled against the odds to survive

We’ve succeeded through sheer grit, lots of determination – and the generous support from funders who understand the importance of getting the vital news and information we provide to people affected by ill health and disability, especially to the half a million people across Merseyside and Cheshire who are digitally excluded

Things were looking particularly bleak as we began this year Our days were numbered

But, out of the blue, came a letter and a cheque from a solicitor informing us we had benefitted from a will of one of our readers

Former headteacher Pat (Audrey) Lowe bequeathed an amazing £25,000 to support the work of the newspaper

“We can’t afford to lose this newspaper,” she said

“It is so vital for people like me who are not online It’s a lifeline ”

That’s exactly what Pat gave us – a lifeline So we were able to fight on And as we end the year, another most welcome surprise has come our way

The Ann Duchess of Westminster Fund has generously donated £10,000 to help our cause

“We are very proud to support the work of All Together NOW! and the important service you provide to the community,” said Kate Williams, ADWF fund manager

Another incredibly tough year faces us But we go into it with renewed optimism with the words ringing in our ears NEVER GIVE IN

l Here’s wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

– TOM DOWLING, editor

Johnny’s epic trek

ADVENTURER: Johnny setting off on his South Pole challenge

STROKE survivor Johnny

Huntington is planning a very special way to elebrate the New Year – by ying the flag at the South Pole

Johnny, 38, is hoping to become he first disabled person to ski solo and unsupported – 911

ilometres across frozen Antarctic undra and climb 3,000 metres on is way to the Pole

“I really want to show that no matter what life throws at you, with enough determination everyone

can fulfill their own potential ” In June 2014, just eight weeks after joining the British Army, Jonny was in the gym when he suffered a devastating stroke It took years of rehab before he was able to fully walk again, and even then he was left with significantly restricted movement down his left side

n Look out for updates about Johnny’s progress at www alltogethernow org uk

Can YOU help stop

DISABLED people living in high-rise buildings are being urged to speak up about their experiences

A call for vulnerable residents to join a national safety panel comes the Building Safety Regulator, set up in the wake of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 It was the most devastating domestic fire in living memory, killing 72 residents – including 32 disabled people

The Building Safety Regulator, as part of the Health and Safety Executive, has been developed to ensure all high-rise residents feel safe and are safe in their homes

Panel manager Emily Roshan said: “We are particularly keen to make sure that high-rise residents with a disability are represented and that their opinions and lived experiences are heard ” Emily continued: “This is your opportunity to make a difference and have your voice heard!”

The panel meets virtually, four times a year n Want to join the panel? email IRP@hse gov uk

Festival’s all the rage

DaDaFest International 40 –showcasing the work of disabled, deaf and neurodivergent artists –returns to Merseyside in March “full of rage”

The three-week long spectacular will highlight the frustrations of the artists’ uphill battle for equity and inclusion

Shedding the weight another Grenfell?

A NEW NHS diet is achieving “remarkable results” across Merseyside and Cheshire, say medics

People across the region are achieving an average 10kg weight loss with the “soups and shakes” diet

The diet replacement treatment is for people who are living with type 2 diabetes and overweight

But Professor Rowan Pritchard Jones, medical director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, warns: “The strict programme will not be suitable for everyone. Your GP or the team providing your care will support you to find the best approach for you ”

n Check if you would be suitable at momentanewcastle com/ participant/t2dr-cm/

PROUD MOMENT:

Tax rise ‘catastrophe’ for disability services

PLANS to raise employers’ national insurance contributions will have catastrophic consequences for statefunded disability services next year, charities have warned

The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group predicts increased costs will lead to inevitable service cuts and lifechanging consequences for many of the million disabled people currently accessing services

Rhidian Hughes, VODG chief executive, said: “Charities cannot afford to shoulder this additional burden Some of our members are poised to hand back contracts next year as they become unsustainable

“Social care is designed to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, and this Labour government is letting them down ”

Owzat for inclusion?

WARWICKSHIRE

Cricket Club has won a place in the national Disability Confident employer scheme

The programme encourages employers to improve how they recruit, retain and develop disabled people

Warwickshire joins Glamorgan, Nottinghamshire, Worcestershire and Yorkshire county cricket clubs as Disability Confident employers

We can’t afford time off

THOUSANDS of workers who look after a loved one cannot afford to take advantage of their new legal right to unpaid leave, says a new study by Carers UK

Younger carers aged 18 to 44 were more likely to say they couldn’t afford to take unpaid Carer ’s Leave than those aged 45 to 64.

Professor Matt Bennett, at the Centre for Care at the University of Birmingham, said: “The growing economic value of unpaid care across the UK has reached an astonishing £184.3 billion.

“People are providing more hours of unpaid care than ever before.”

Online councillors

THE Government is to scrap the ban on councillors attending meetings online.

Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner said changes to the law will allow disabled councillors and other elected members to take part in meetings remotely if they face barriers to attending in person.

MUM’S PRESSURE SORE NIGHTMARE

NHS blasted as

Joyce, 93, ends up bedridden in nursing home

HEATH trusts are being warned of the potentially life-changing consequences if they fail to assess and treat people with pressure sores

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman is calling on staff at all NHS Trusts to learn from errors in the treatment of an elderly woman who has now been forced to move into a nursing home

Joyce Musson, 93, who had been living with her daughter, Sarah, developed a pressure sore at the top of her buttock

District nurses visited weekly to check and dress the sore, but the visits suddenly stopped

Three weeks later, Sarah contacted her NHS Trust and a nurse came to clean the sore

However, it continued to get worse and Mrs Musson was admitted to hospital

Three months later, she was discharged to a nursing home, where she now requires 24-hour care indefinitely and is mostly bedbound

A PHSO investigation found that the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust missed opportunities to treat the sore, which contributed to its deterioration

Despite apologising and putting improvements in place, the Trust did not acknowledge the impact its failure had on the two women

The Ombudsman recommended the Trust acknowledge the failings, apologise for the concern, distress and pain caused, and pay £550 in financial remedy

Sarah, 57, said: “The impact has been awful because mum used to live with me and I looked after her Now I have to go to the nursing home every day to see her It’s quite a trip, and life is completely different and not for the better

“Mum was a nurse She’s been very badly let down by the NHS You trust the professionals to look after

you when you need help We should be confident that nurses are going to look after us to the best of their ability We’re all human and make mistakes, but those mistakes contributed to mum being in a home ”

Ombudsman Rebecca Hilsenrath said: “The missed opportunities to provide appropriate treatment in this case have caused distress for Joyce and Sarah

“The impact on both of their lives has been significant Joyce has lost her independence and has been separated from Sarah, and she continues on a daily basis to experience discomfort and pain

“When mistakes are made, the NHS must take the opportunity to learn and change They must ensure that errors are properly acknowledged and that they set out what they will do to improve their service ”

n PHSO Helpline 0345 015 4033

n www ombudsman org uk

n People can still seek legal advice about potential medical negligence.

Why Mrs Musson only gets £550

All Together NOW! was appalled to hear of Mrs Musson’s experiences. But we wondered why the “financial remedy” was just £550.

The PHSO explained:

There are six levels of payments

Mrs Musson was deemed to fall within level two (£550 max) for cases where impact on life is “low and a degree of distress, inconvenience or minor pain”

And yet, the Ombudsman said the impact on Mrs Musson’s life

was “significant” She has lost her independence, is now in a care home, and continues to experience discomfort and pain every day

The level six band (more than £12,500) covers “profound, devastating or irreversible impacts including when a person may be permanently affected, or where recovery is likely to take several years, and cases involving avoidable death ”

A PHSO spokesperson said: “We deemed it level two as we could not prove that it was the sole

Are YOU missing out on £2,370?

PENSIONERS providing unpaid care for a loved one could be missing out on vital financial support due to complex rules

Charity Carers UK say those eligible for the carer top-up to Pension Credit could receive up to £2,370 a year extra and access additional help including winter fuel payments, housing benefit and council tax support

For those who have reached state pension age, claiming Pension Credit allows them to top up their income, if it is low, to a guaranteed minimum set by the Government

Unpaid carers may be eligible for a higher minimum amount because an additional amount of money called the Carers

Addition is factored into the Pension Credit calculation

To qualify, carers must first apply for Carer ’s Allowance –even though they won’t get it if their state pension is more than the allowance, currently £81 90 weekly

But having an “underlying entitlement” to the benefit increases the chances of being eligible for Pension Credit and increase the amount of a Pension Credit award

The latest that someone can apply for Pension Credit and still receive a winter fuel payment this winter is December 21

People can still claim Pension Credit after this date, but they won’t get this year ’s winter fuel payment

contribution to her being transferred to a home

“We also couldn’t say she would never have ended up in a home

So we based our view on the distress caused from never knowing if the outcome could have been different had the failings not happened

“The majority of people who come to us primarily want an organisation to apologise and acknowledge its failings, as they do not want the same thing to happen to somebody else ”

n CHECK your eligibility for Pension Credit at www gov uk/pension-creditcalculator n Helpline: 0808 808 7777

Too confusing

TWO out of every five older consumers feel confused or overwhelmed when considering switching broadband providers, research found

That figure rises to three out of five among those aged 71-plus, according to ba survey by comparison site Uswitch

“BADLY LET DOWN”: Joyce and daughter, Sarah

Air travel taskforce

The flying squad

ANEW air travel taskforce has been set up to improve journeys for disabled passengers

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh promised the new Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group – comprising industry and disability experts – will tackle the biggest barriers to air travel

She said: “Everyone has the right to travel with dignity and it is vital we ensure that flying is an accessible, safe and enjoyable experience for all “For too long, disabled passengers

haven’t had the standard of assistance and service they need That’s why we are bringing together this expert taskforce to drive forward change

“Under the leadership of Baroness Grey-Thompson and with accomplished members like Sophie Morgan, this group will help break down barriers and deliver lasting and meaningful improvements to ensure passengers always comes first ”

Baroness Grey-Thompson said: “I am looking forward to working with disabled people, industry experts and the Department for Transport to improve access to flying

“It is essential that the rights of each passenger are protected at every aspect of their journey, so they can travel with the respect they deserve ”

Sophie Morgan, co-founder Rights on Flights and pioneering campaigner for improved aviation accessibility, said: “This is an important milestone in the ongoing fight for rights on flights For far too long disabled people have suffered when flying and enough is enough ”

“The UK Government has sent a powerful message to the community and airline industry, that change is in the air ”

Dad’s tribute

to founder of unique access guide

THE man behind the popular online disability Euan’s Guide has died Euan MacDonald, 50, battled for 21 years with motor neurone disease, which that affects the brain and nerves

Among his many achievements, he created the unique access guide, a disability review website and a smart phone app for disabled people, their families and their carers.

Along with his father, Donald, he also set up an internationally-recognised centre for MND research at Edinburgh University

Donald said: “He always tried to protect his mother, and his father too about some of the difficult things Courage was a huge part of his character

“He wasn’t egocentric but I’m sure he would be proud of what has been started ” Born in Sheffield, Euan moved to Scotland, studying at the universities of St Andrews and Edinburgh, and later worked for investment bank Dresdner Kleinwort in London. In 2009, he was awarded an MBE. Four years later, with his sister, Kiki, and father, created Euan’s Guide n www EuansGuide com

AIR FORCE: Tanni, left, and Sophie

COURAGE: Euan

Taskforce bid to make

school autism-friendly

PLANS to make mainstream schools more inclusive have been welcomed by the National Autistic Society.

The charity’s head of policy and campaigns, Mel Merritt, said: “We are delighted that the Education Secretary has set up a Neurodivergence Task and Finish Group. Its recommendations will help answer how to make all schools autism-inclusive.

“Our education system simply isn’t working for autistic children. Three out of four parents of autistic children have told us their child’s school place did not meet their needs.”

NEW figures show there are now 204,876 people waiting for an autism assessment – a 25% increase in one year, and a 96% increase over the last two years.

Of these, 183,200 have been waiting over the 13 weeks recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

Here thanks to Pat’s generosity

THE printing costs for th edition of All Together NOW! have been paid out of a generous bequest from former head teacher

Miss Pat (Audrey) Lowe, She was a great fan of the paper “This free newspaper is so vital, especially to those not online,” she said “Without it there would be an enormous void I just hope it gets the support it deserves ”

Parents of vulnerable children ‘ignored’

CHANCES to stop children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) being groomed are being missed by the very services meant to protect them

A report says the failure to prevent what often amounts to modern slavery is due to the absence of a national strategy, adequate funding and relevant training for frontline workers

Researchers found that despite parents’ desperate efforts to get support when criminal or sexual exploitation is discovered, lack of help is leading to devastating consequences

Mum was seen but not heard

Help for blind students

NEW help is available to help blind and partially-sighted students fight for their rights

An online toolkit comes in response to the number of students who contact the Royal National Institute of Blind People about being let down by their universities around barriers in their education

Blind student Paul Goddard found himself experiencing accessibility issues at university His case resulted in compensation and a formal written apology from the university

Paul said: “Since receiving support from RNIB, I have been passionate about making sure similar situations don’t happen to other students ”

Jenna Vivian, at RNIB, said: “Our Legal Rights Service is here for anyone who needs support in this area

“We urge anyone experiencing challenges to contact us ” n RNIB Helpline 0303 123 9999 www rnib org uk

Hearing

difficulties are not always obvious, says Dr Sebastian Hendricks

JORDAN was a happy and friendly child who loved to learn new things and play with his friends

But something changed when Jordan was four years old He started to have trouble paying attention, sitting still and following instructions

He daydreamed, got frustrated easily, and shouted at people Sometimes he would even become aggressive and hit or bite others

His parents and teachers thought Jordan might have a problem, such as ADHD or autism, but didn’t know what to do

One day, the school entry hearing screening team attended to check all the children’s hearing They noticed Jordan didn’t pass the test, and suspected he might have a problem

Muffled and distorted

They referred him to the local paediatric audiology team, who confirmed a conductive hearing loss

This means sound waves could not reach Jordan’s inner ear, because there was fluid in his middle ear

This made everything sound muffled and distorted, and affected his speech and language development

The audiology team explained Jordan needed ventilation tubes in his ears, which would drain the fluid and restore his hearing

But the waiting time for this procedure was up to six months, and they did not want to delay Jordan’s treatment So the audiologists offered Jordan a bone conduction hearing aid, a device that bypasses the middle ear and sends the sound vibrations directly to the inner ear through the skull

They fitted Jordan with the hearing aid and turned it on Immediately Jordan could hear sounds he hadn’t heard for a very long time

He could even hear his own voice From then on, Jordan wore the hearing aid every day, except when it was very loud, and everyone noticed a big difference

Jordan could hear what people were saying and respond, could follow instructions and complete

tasks He could join conversations, make jokes, play with his friends, and share his feelings

Finally, he was back to being the happy and friendly child he used to be

Hearing difficulties in children and young people can take many forms Some only have difficulties with certain voices and not others

So having a very low threshold for suggesting that a child has a hearing assessment or hearing check is very helpful

Also, normal hearing last week can still mean that a cold makes it difficult tomorrow It is important for parents and teachers to look out for signs of possible hearing problems in children

The sooner advice is sought, the quicker appropriate action can be taken So please be curious and think HEARING Teachers can make such a positive difference to children with hearing difficulties

A microphone for the teacher and speakers at the back of the classroom help pupils to understand better and enable a teacher ’s voice to stay quieter and therefore calmer and clearer Shouting does not help anyone with hearing problems

Good classroom acoustics are important Bare glass or concrete walls generate echoes (increase reverberation) and degrade the sound information

Lip reading

Most people can lip read to some extent, some better than others Being able to see a teacher ’s face well when they are talking really helps Asking someone to listen and write at the same time disadvantages everyone with hearing problems even if they wear hearing aids

Hearing aids make things louder, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the sound is as normal

l Dr Hendricks is a consultant in paediatric audiovestibular medicine at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, and medical director of Thomson Screening, leading supplier of software for vision and hearing screening and other school health needs

They include attempts by children to take their own lives and self-harm, enforced house moves, and children placed away from home

Many families are living in fear of violence and with intense levels of stress

There is little recognition of the increased vulnerability and risk to children and young people with SEND of being coerced and exploited, according to a study led by Manchester Metropolitan University

Anita Franklin, professor of childhood studies and lead researcher at Manchester Met, said: “The research starkly indicates the need for parents and children and young people with SEND to be listened to when raising concerns about unmet needs and treated with paramount importance when they raise concerns about exploitation ”

Missing voices

CHILDREN in care and care leavers with disabilities are likely to be missing out on vital support

A report by children’s rights organisation Coram Voice reveals a big difference between what local authorities say is the number of care leavers with disabilities and what the care leavers themselves say Young people said for them disability can be multifaceted and include conditions such as neurodiversity, which can make day-to-day life more difficult

The report’s author, Dr Claire Baker, said: “Our work has highlighted that young people’s voices are missing

“It’s clear that whatever way disability is measured we are talking about a significant group of children in care and care leavers affected ”

TAKING THE TEST: The school entry hearing screening team can detect problems

Help when you need

Since launching in 2015, more than 400,000 people across the North West have now registered for United Utilities’ Priority Services scheme.

Steph Smith from the Priority Services team said: “Our Priority Services scheme is free to all our customers who may need a bit of extra support in life. This could be due to age, ill health, disability, worries or language barriers.

“By registering for our scheme, we can make sure you receive the right support from us during those times the water to repair a leak, or if we need to visit you in your own home.

“Even if you don’t need this support, we all know someone

services - such as a friend, family member or neighbour - so please encourage them to get in touch to register.”

Services include:

• A dedicated team on hand to listen and help

• Braille, large print, ‘talking’ bills and text relay service

• Knock and wait service. If you tell us you have mobility needs and we have to visit your home, we will wait allowing enough time for you to answer the door

• Nominate a carer, family member or friend to check your bills and speak to us on your behalf

• Additional support if you have a medical need for water.

• Protection from bogus callers with a password protection scheme

• Notice of interruptions to your water supply

• Translation services

• Every two years we’ll check that your details are still correct

Scan

• are blind or partially sighted;

• have a chronic (long-term) or serious illness;

development;

• have dementia;

• rely on dialysis, feeding pumps or automated medication;

• are deaf or hard of hearing, or have

• have a mental health condition;

• have children aged 5 or under;

• are experiencing temporary life changes (including divorce or bereavement);

• are recovering after leaving hospital;

• have restricted movement making it

• may struggle to communicate because

NETWORK Rail has apologised for falling seriously short of its target to provide step-free access to platforms at stations

The Access for All scheme, operated by the organisation responsible for thousands of stations, has “significantly” underperformed, resulting in a £99 million underspend

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are so sorry for the delays to these projects and we are working as hard as we can to get them back on track ”

A statement from the company added that their “plans fell short of where we wanted them to be for a variety of reasons”

Stephen Brookes, Disability Rights UK’s rail policy adviser, said: “It is clear that Access for All has been a failure mainly because it has not seen a dedicated, centrally controlled delivery team working on it

“There is only peripheral interest in accessibility from the industry’s leadership It’s time for such matters to change ”

“We need to be assured that any review of this failing is meaningful and has a specific and clear date for catch-up delivery ”

SOLVING the unique problems people with sight loss face when using transport is the aim of a major new project

The Royal National Institute of Blind People and the Motability Foundation have teamed up to address some of the biggest issues that prevent people making the journeys they choose Nicola Gampell, from the Motability Foundation said: “We hope that by working together can find some exciting ways of utilising new technology and make journeys more accessible for all ”

NORTHERN Trains is to introduce British Sign Language (BSL) announcements on all of its services, following a successful trial period

The announcements were tried out on trains travelling between York, Leeds and Manchester last year

The train company, which operates across the north of England, is now exploring long-term plans to introduce BSL announcements which provide customers with information about cancellations, delays and other incidents

Matt Rice, Northern chief operating officer, said: “It’s fantastic to see these sign language announcements have been well received by our customers during the recent trial and we can now press ahead with rolling them out on all of our services

“We’re constantly working to make our services more accessible and give people with specific needs the confidence to travel by train ”

PUTTING US IN DRIVING SEAT

MAKING sure the electric vehicle revolution does not leave disabled people behind is the aim of an exciting new partnership.

The Motability Foundation, which oversees the Motability Scheme, is joing forces with design charity Designability to show how inclusive design can work for everyone

Research has shown disabled people face significant challenges when making journeys in their vehicles These include difficulties getting in and out of their cars, lack of space, seating that doesn’t meet their needs and problems using controls

US drivers have the power to make or break a bus journey for someone with a disability

With that in mind, a new training video shows bus drivers how they can best support blind and partially sighted (BPS) passengers

It comes after research that found over half of people with a vision impairment find it difficult to navigate public transport Thomas Pocklington Trust and its

Matt Ford, the charity’s director of design & innovation, said: “We’re excited to be moving into the next phase of this project where we’ll continue to work with disabled drivers and passengers

“Through a deeper understanding of the needs and barriers disabled people face, we aim to create a new, inclusive vision for the way cars are designed in the future ”

Mr Ford added: “We believe that inclusive design benefits everyone, and we’re looking forward to collaborating closely with the leading manufacturers in the auto industry ” Chelsea Fleming, innovation

manager at the Motability Foundation, said: “We want to ensure that all disabled people can make the transition to EVs, but for this to happen accessibility needs to be at the heart of standard production vehicle design ”

l EARLIER this year, the Euan’s Guide Access Survey also highlighted the problems disabled drivers face with charging points for electric vehicles

The majority of 6,000 respondents said their experience of electric charging points was at best “bad” and in many cases “very bad”

volunteer-led Sight Loss Councils (SLC) created the video, which is narrated by paralympic cycling gold medallist, Lora Fachie, and will be made available to all bus and coach operators and trainers across the UK

SLC engagement manager Dave Smith said: “Buses are an essential lifeline for blind and partially sighted people who cannot drive to get to work, see family and friends and socialise

‘Fix our broken transport system’

DISABLED people told transport leaders the system isn’t working and is getting worse at the first Accessible Transport Summit

Kamran Mallick, CEO of Disability Rights UK, said: “Transport isn’t just about getting from A to B

“It’s the lifeline to education, employment, social connections and even essential healthcare It’s the glue that binds together our life choices

“When transport systems fail to be inclusive, they deny us, disabled people, the fundamental right to live our lives to the fullest ”

Deborah Persaud, cochair of trustees at Transport for All, said:

“It’s getting to the point where I can’t go out without somebody with me, which is a complete loss of independence

Disabled people can’t be part of the economy and are being excluded from everyday life.”

Challenges

The summit, at Plexal Stratford, London, was hosted by the National Centre for Accessible Transport (NCAT), and brought together 200 disabled passengers and industry leaders to shape the future of accessible transport Key issues included ensuring disabled people are actively involved in transport decisions from the outset, transport providers’ accountability for making services accessible, and behavioural challenges posed by staff and the public

“Without accessible bus travel, many risk becoming isolated and cannot access the same life opportunities Our goal is to make bus and coach travel accessible to all ”

And SLC volunteer Linn Davies explained: “I rely heavily on buses to get around “There aren’t really any train stations near where I live and taxis are expensive, so buses are really a lifeline ”

One of the key insights came from an NCAT survey which revealed 59% of 1,195 respondents found street obstacles were the primary barrier to accessible transport. NCAT is a consortium funded by the Motability Foundation and led by Coventry University

SELF-driving vehicles have the potential to provide people with disabilities with

But there are growing concerns that the needs of disabled people are not being taken into consideration by teams designing

A joint report from the Transport Research Foundation and the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (RiDC) warns that without careful consideration, automated transport systems could replicate or even exacerbate the barriers disabled individuals already face.

Indigo Ayling, from RiDC, said: “This research should be a wake-up call to designers, policy makers and regulators

“Our findings show that many of the challenges already experienced in conventional transport, such as difficulties boarding vehicles, lack of accessible information, and the absence of staff to provide assistance, will persist or worsen if not addressed in automated systems Involving disabled people from the beginning in the design and testing of new services is essential.”

MEDICAL NOTES

PM urged to act on surge in sight loss

WAITING times for diagnosis and treatment and more people with diabetes are helping fuel a surge in those living with sight loss

The UK’s leading sight loss charity predicts there will be a 27% rise in the number of people in the UK with vision impairments by 2035

RNIB is calling on the Government to help stop avoidable sight loss and ensure everyone receives the right support at the right time

Key factors leading to this rise in sight loss include an increase in life expectancy and the resulting ageing population, and demographic changes

New research by RNIB shows an estimated 2 8 million people across the country will be living with a visual impairment by 2035

There is also likely to be a significant increase in the number of people with severe sight loss or being registered blind, a 29% increase from 298,000 in 2022 to 379,000 in 2035.

RNIB is urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to develop a National Eye Care Plan to stem the rise

Charity chief Matt Stringer said:

“Prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of common sight conditions are key to reducing the number of people who will experience sight loss

“Regular eye tests are crucial in preventing avoidable sight loss They can also detect other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, risk of stroke and heart disease.

“We are calling on the Government to develop and implement a National Eye Care plan to fix delays in eye care and stop avoidable sight loss ”

n RNIB Helpline: 0303 123 9999

Diabetes worries

SIGNS of eating disorders are surprisingly common in adults with insulin-dependent diabetes, a new study has found

As well as typical symptoms – like binge-eating and food restriction –insulin-dependent diabetes is also associated with insulin omission, which is where insulin doses are intentionally restricted, or skipped entirely, due to fears of weight gain

The study was carried out in Finland, where one in five patients reported intentional insulin omission

“Intentional skipping or restriction of insulin doses will lead to weight loss, but this also maintains high blood glucose, throwing the management of diabetes off balance,” said researcher a Niemelä, from the University of Eastern Finland

New hubs boost for women’s health

THOUSANDS of women in Liverpool can now access more health services focused on their needs closer to home

The roll-out of women’s health hubs is already thought to be responsible for an increased uptake of cervical screening in the city, potentially saving many lives

Hubs have also led to a significant increase in prescribing rates for long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), an effective contraceptive method and treatment for menstrual disorders of which there is high demand in Liverpool, with the resulting pressure on local services

Advice and support around other health needs and behaviours, including menopause, healthy weight, mental health and physical activity are among other services provided by the hubs

James Woolgar, an advanced public health practitioner at Liverpool City Council, said:

“The introduction of women’s health hubs has been a game-changer for reproductive healthcare in Liverpool

“By bringing services closer to where women live, we’re addressing long-standing barriers to accessing contraception, cervical screening and now menopause care ”

Based inside a number of GP surgeries in the city, the hubs can be accessed via a

Delay taking test could leave you with kidney failure

DO YOU know the main symptoms of chronic kidney disease? It seems one in four of us don’t

Which is all a bit worrying as new data reveals CKD is set to be the fifth biggest global killer within a decade

The most common signs are cramps, itchy skin, dietary changes (food tasting different to how it does normally), nausea and/or vomiting, exhaustion, changes to your wee and swelling of your ankles/legs or face

The disease currently affects one in 10 of us – equivalent to more than seven million in the UK – but one million of those are not even aware they have it

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two leading causes, but more than 70% of people with high blood pressure do not have an annual urine test

And almost half of those with Type 1 diabetes and a third with Type 2 do not have their annual urine test

In response, charity Kidney Care UK is urging people to take their five-minute online Kidney Health Checker to understand their level of risk and take action to prolong their kidney health as part of their #BloodyAmazingKidneys campaign

referral from a doctor They bring together healthcare professionals and existing services to provide integrated women’s health services in the community, focused on meeting women’s needs

Dr Fiona Lemmens, deputy medical director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: “Improving women’s health is a priority for us, and we are very proud of the work that partners in Liverpool have done on the roll-out of women’s health hubs

“The initiative is a shining example of how organisations can work together to tackle health inequalities by adapting services to meet the needs of our population ”

GET ORGAN-ISED! GET ORGAN-ISED!

Fiona Loud, the charity’s director of policy, said: “We want to see at risk groups in the North West screened for CKD as early as possible Delay in the diagnosis of moderate to advanced CKD by just one year results in a 63% higher likelihood of kidney failure requiring costly treatment to stay alive, such as dialysis or a transplant ”

“Whilst age-based screening is offered for people aged 40 to 75 via the NHS Health

Check, only half of all people take up the offer

“Innovations such as the new digital health check programme may make it easier for people to engage with their health However, people with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes aren’t included in the health check programme ”

The NHS say CKD is a common condition often associated with getting older.

It is more common for those who are black or of south Asian origin.

Most people with CKD will be able to control their condition with medicine and regular check-ups

CKD only progresses to kidney failure in around two in 100 people with the condition

The main treatments are:

l Lifestyle changes to help you remain as healthy as possible

l Medicine to control associated problems such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol

l Dialysis – treatment to replicate some of the kidney’s functions; this may be necessary in advanced CKD

l Kidney transplant – this may also be necessary in advanced CKD

l You’ll also be advised to have regular check-ups to monitor your condition

See a GP if you have persistent or worrying symptoms that you think could be caused by kidney disease

wish

acted’ WARNING: James and pet dog Walter

KIDNEY transplant recipient James is backing the campaign

“I was having cramps after playing football, “ he said, “but I just put it down to dehydration and running around for 90 minutes in the cold I let it carry on for three months before I did anything about it I was getting these awful headaches, too

“I went from being a normal, healthy and active 24 year-old lad to needing a kidney transplant – in less than three years I just wish I’d acted sooner

“If you’ve got any of the symptoms or you could be at risk because of diabetes or high blood pressure, please get yourself checked out It’s not worth waiting to see if it’s something serious because by then it might be too late ” Kidney Care UK Helpline 0808 801 00 00

I ignored medics who said my dream was over

ACED IT: Dr Xander passed his first medical exams six weeks after a life-chaging accident

Insets, with wife Kirsty and on graduation day

DOCTOR DEFIANT DOCTOR DEFIANT

WHEN Xander Van der Poll fell from a tree, becoming paralysed from the waist down, he was told his dream of being a doctor was over

Seven years on, the remarkable medical student has officially become Dr Van der Poll

Not only that, but he will balance work as a doctor with training for the next Paralympics, as he paddles towards Los Angeles 2028

In 2018, a 19-year-old Xander was walking his dog when he stopped to climb his favourite tree, but slipped and fell three metres on to the roots below

“That was the last time I felt my legs,” he recalled Xander had broken his back and punctured a lung As he slipped in and out of consciousness, he was wheeled to the operating theatre he had done work experience in just a few years previously Xander spent nine hours in that theatre and would remain in hospital for nearly four months

“I really did a number on myself,” he laughed, seven years on

“I was in incredible pain for a few weeks and really worried about all the things I

by SARAH BLISS

couldn’t do I thought I wouldn’t be able to be a doctor, play rugby or just have a normal life

“I was really lucky to have my family around me My mum sat by my side every single day ”

Xander took his first year medical exams from his hospital bed, six weeks to the day from his accident The University of Bristol sent an invigilator to the hospital

He said: “People’s opinions are actually a lot more debilitating than your actual disability

“People told me all sorts after the accident During one medical placement, a doctor sat me down and listed all the things I couldn’t do

“The funny thing was, the list was all based on assumptions, and none of the assumptions were actually true

“Being in a wheelchair breaks down a lot of barriers between doctor and patient, it humanises me When I come wheeling into the room it disarms people I’ve never had anyone doubt my abilities ”

Xander, who grew up near Stratford-uponAvon, aced medical school – even winning an achievement award from the university –

and excelled at several para sports

Eventually he found canoeing, and now paddles a va’a – a one-person, doublehulled boat, used for millennia in Polynesia and now in paracanoe racing

He recently competed in his first European Championships, and is a hopeful for the 2028 games

Meanwhile, he and wife, Kirsty, an amputee, who won fourth place at the ISA Para Surfing World Championships last year, run a popular Instagram channel aimed at “destigmatising and showing the joy in disability”

“It shows us living every day like it’s our last and like it’s a gift,” Xander said After graduating, Xander plans to work in A&E, while training hard and continuing to inspire others online

“My family and I quite often look back and see how far we’ve come I’m still figuring stuff out about life but I can do a lot more now than I ever thought I’d be able to ” Professor Chrissie Thirlwell, head of Bristol Medical School, said: “Xander has been a really talented medical student and he will no doubt go on to become a brilliant doctor We can all learn from him

“I look forward to seeing what he goes on to do next, and hopefully cheering him on at the 2028 Paralympics!”

. . .

. . .

Help workers with

mental health

. . .

MORE than two out of three employees would feel uncomfortable requesting time off sick for mental health reasons, a survey reveals

Only one in 10 of professionals asked said they would automatically call in sick if they were experiencing a mental health issue

Coral Bamgboye, from recruitment company Robert Walters, which carried out the research, said: “The discomfort professionals experience when approaching employers and senior leaders about mental health leave points to larger issues of inadequate support or awareness of mental health in the workplace ”

According to employees quizzed in the survey, only half of companies have a clear mental health policy

Ms Bamgboye added: “It is more important than ever that employers approach this issue now before it develops and has an impact on an even greater number of people ”

. . . it makes sense

MENTAL health training for bosses makes businesses more successful

And it could save companies millions of pounds in lost sick days every year, according to researchers

A new study shows a strong link between mental health training for line managers and improved staff recruitment and retention, better customer service, and lower levels of long-term mental health sickness absence

Professor Holly Blake, from the University of Nottingham, who jointly led the research, said: “This is an important finding that strengthens the business case for why employers should invest in mental health at work ”

In the UK one in six workers experiences mental health challenges, with 12 7% of all sick days attributed to mental ill-health

The estimated cost of poor employee mental health to British employers is more than £50 billion annually

Spinal injury plea BRIEFLY

SPINAL cord injury charities are demanding an urgent increase in support for people living with the life-changing condition.

The call comes after new data reveals every two hours someone is paralysed by spinal cord injury in the UK – 4,400 cases a year, twice the number previously thought.

There are now 105,000 people in the UK living with the condition which affects mob sensation, bladde bowel, skin, breathing and sexual function.

GLOOMBUSTERS GLOOMBUSTERS

IF THE darker days are leaving you feeling low, rest assured you’re not alone

The NHS reckons around two million of us in the UK experience seasonal affective disorder – SAD – each year

Symptoms include low mood, irritability, loss of interest, feeling worthless, and feeling lethargic The condition is widely thought to be linked to reduced exposure to sunlight

Fatih Mustafa Çelebi, co-founder of mental health tool, Meditopia, gives his top tips to help you combat those feelings this winter

Leave the house

One of the best and most effective ways to combat any form of depression is exercise

Wrapping up warm and going for a walk is more than enough, ideally when

Seven ways to

lift low spirits

it is still light Taking a stroll around your neighbourhood can work wonders Get ahead of the curve

It’s a good idea to prepare before the symptoms set in Try making plans for the months when depression tends to affect you

These activities could be exciting and social, relaxing and personal, or a mix of both Make your friends aware you may struggle – this puts less pressure on you

Create a routine

Waking up at a set time, making a nice drink, and taking a few moments to set yourself up for the day can be extremely beneficial Create a small list of goals you want to achieve in

your day and tick them off as you go

Let the light in

Opening the curtains earlier, lighting a candle, or getting some batterypowered fairy lights can all combat the dark, and add cosiness to your home

Keep a diary

This can help you identify what triggers your feelings and provides a private outlet to voice your feelings without being judged

Maintain a balanced diet

Eat the right amount for your body and enjoy all foods in moderation

Try light therapy

This is a treatment using a special light box, known as a SAD light, that mimics sunlight The UV light is filtered out, while the bright light stimulates the hypothalamus to lower melatonin and boost serotonin production

See skills not ills

OPPORTUNITY: A blind worker, but the employment gap remains wide

FOCUS on ability not disability –that’s the message to senior bosses and big business in the UK

Disabled people can bring their talents to bear and help solve skill shortages across the workforce, the Business Disability Forum’s annual conference was told Forum chief Diane Lightfoot called for a “change in the narrative” around disability

She told the gathering of senior business leaders and major employers: “We need to move away from the “us and them” and the deeply unhelpful rhetoric about costs to the system

“Instead, we want to see a narrative about

talent and opportunity and enabling everyone to thrive

”

Ms Lightfoot called on the new Government to make disability employment an urgent priority

She said: “Only 53% of disabled people of working age are in employment, compared to 81% of their non-disabled peers

“With skills shortages in many sectors, this makes no sense Disability is everyone’s business It can and will affect all of us

“The next Government needs to prioritise disability inclusion and put it at the centre of decision-making, policy and messaging

“The UK needs a holistic, joined up strategy for disability, health, and work ”

WATCH THE B WATCH THE B

Sit back and join the great garden count

WWATCHING and listening to birds is not only a great way to relax – but nature can benefit too

ATCHING and listening to birds is not only a great way to relax – but nature can benefit too.

All of us are being invited to take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch 2025, which provides a valuable snapshot of how our garden birds are doing

And you don’t need to have a garden to take part All you need is an hour to spend watching the birds in your local green space

In 2024, over 600,000 people across the UK took part in what is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey, counting more than 9 7 million birds

Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s chief cxecutive, said: “At its heart, Big Garden Birdwatch is an opportunity for people to spend an hour watching, enjoying and connecting with the wildlife on their doorstep

“By taking part hundreds of thousands of nature lovers across the UK play an important role in helping us understand how garden birds are doing

“With the nature and climate emergency threatening even our most familiar birds, every count matters It’s good for wildlife and evidence shows it’s good for our own wellbeing ”

This year ’s event takes place on January 24, 25 and 26, and registration opens on December 11

l To receive your FREE Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your Birdwatch, RSPB shop voucher, plus advice on how to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 82727, or you can choose a free digital guide by visiting: www rspb org uk/birdwatch

THE house sparrow held on to the top spot in last year ’s Big Garden Birdwatch, with blue tits at number two and starlings at three Woodpigeons and blackbirds made up the top five most recorded species. Although 1.4 million house sparrows were spotted across the January weekend, they have suffered severe

Tune into nature – and tune out stress

TTUNE into birdsong – and you will soon start to feel the difference in your life

Listening to bird calls can have a deeply calming effect, according to a study that found a 35% decrease in stress levels among those who listened to the sounds of nature on their way to work

Experts emphasise that the benefits of hearing birdsongs extend far beyond commuting and can help us maintain relaxation throughout our daily lives

Maria Kincaid, head ornithologist at

FeatherSnap, which supplies solar powered bird feeders, said: “Listening to bird songs not only lowers stress but also promotes better sleep, enhances focus, and offers a range of other therapeutic effects

“Bird songs have a unique ability to reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress

“Natural sounds, especially the gentle chirping of birds, create a calming effect that can work wonders for those contending with fast-paced daily lives

“Moreover, bird songs serve as a positive

distraction, particularly beneficial for those coping with anxiety and depression Their tunes can shift our focus away from negative thoughts ” Maria reckons bird songs also offer a natural, effective remedy for those struggling with sleep

She added: “Birds only sing when they’re free from danger, so naturally we associate their tunes with peace and tranquillity, which signals our nervous systems to relax ” Choosing the type of bird songs you isten to carefully can help you target your

individual needs, according to Maria “Lower-pitched, melodious, and rhythmic bird songs tend to be more relaxing The songs of blackbirds, nightingales, and robins are highly soothing, making them ideal to listen to before bed ” Alternatively, if you’re seeking relief from anxiety, Maria recommends birds with more complex songs

“Mistle thrushes and song thrushes have highly engaging tunes, which can promote mindfulness and distract you from anxious thoughts ”

BIRDIES! BIRDIES!

PEAK BEAK: Left, robin, tit Centre, house sparrows. Right, mistle thrush and starling

Kids go mild in the country

SPENDING time in nature could provide huge benefits to children’s mental health –

IMPLY spending time in nature could provide huge benefits to children’s mental health –especially those from low-income families

Youngsters who spent an hour a day in nature were found to have a 50% lower risk of mental health issues

A new study showed the benefits were greatest for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly in terms of improved behaviour and social skills

The benefits were the same whether activities were vigorous, like running, or less strenuous, such as walking

Dr Fiona Caryl, from the University of Glasgow, which led the study, said:

“Our findings suggest that encouraging children to spend more time in nature could be a simple yet effective way to support their mental health

“Crucially, disadvantaged children appear to benefit more from time in nature than their advantaged peers ”

Professor Rich Mitchell added: “This provides compelling evidence of nature’s role in reducing gaps in mental health between higher and lower income children ”

As a result of the findings, the researchers are calling for collaborative efforts between policymakers, local planners, community organisations, and health professionals to ensure good access to safe, high-quality natural spaces in disadvantaged areas

SHOPMOBILIT Y

n ALTRINCHAM

Tel 0161 929 1714

n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE

Tel 0161 339 9500

n BARROW

Tel 01229 434039

n BIRKENHEAD

Tel 0151 647 6162

n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217

n BLACKPOOL Tel 01253 349427

n BOLTON Tel 01204 392946

n CARLISLE

Tel 01228 631564

n CHESTER Tel 01244 312626

n CHORLEY

Tel 01257 260 888

n COLWYN BAY Tel 01492 533822

n ELLESMERE PORT

Tel 01244 312626

n KENDAL Tel 01539 740 933

n LEIGH, Wigan

Tel 01942 777 985

n LIVERPOOL

Tel 0151 707 0877

n MANCHESTER Trafford

Centre Tel 0161 747 2684

n MANCHESTER Arndale

Centre Tel 0161 839 4060

n NELSON

Tel 01282 692 502

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Tel 01244 312626

n OSWESTRY

Tel 01691 656882

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Tel 01768 895 438

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Tel 01772 204 667

n RHYL Tel 01745 350665

n ROCHDALE

Tel 01706 865 986

n RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 710144

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Tel 01743 236900

SKELMERSDALE

Tel 01695 550066

n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 666 1100

n WARRINGTON Tel 01925 240064

n WARRINGTON Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 WIDNES: 0151 511 8833

n WIGAN Tel 01942 776 070

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MIDLANDS

n BIRMINGHAM Snow Hill Railway Station Tel 0121 236 8980 Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring Tel 0121 616 2942

n STAFFORD Tel 01785 619456

n STOKE ON TRENT Tel 01782 233333

n SUTTON COLDFIELD

0121 355 1112

n WALSALL

‘I had to meet Queen in children’s clothes’

NO OPTIONS: Shani says there are more clothes for dogs than for people with disabilities

You’re kidding! You’re kidding!

AS a regular on ITV’s This Morning and a speaker at events all over the world, looking her best is important to

Shani Dhanda

She appears regularly on ITV’s This Morning and is a keynote speaker at events all over the world

Yet finding something to wear is a constant struggle And that’s not because she is fussy

When Shani goes shopping, she is forced to buy clothes for children – even though she is 36

Shani has Brittle Bone Disease and is 3ft 10in in height, but it is not her health condition that disables her, it’s the barriers and biases she has to face

Clothes manufacturers and fashion retailers simply do not cater for people like her

Shani’s professional life is devoted to breaking down accessibility barriers for disabled people and amplifying the voices of people in over-excluded groups

She has developed a support platform called the Asian Disability Network, set-up the first ever Asian Woman Festival, and founded Diversability, a discount platform for people living with conditions or impairments

Earlier this year, Shani was invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate International Women’s Day

She bought a dress and paid to have it altered to fit her, so she would feel confident and at ease

Undignified

But on the day it was cold, something that can make Shani’s condition worse So at the last minute she had to find something different to wear

In the end, she had to go wearing children’s clothes “Wearing ill-fitting children’s clothes is anything but dignified or empowering,” she says

“Why is this my only option? Why is there more clothing for dogs than there is for people with disabilities?”

n

n

n

Fashion designer Victoria Jenkins, herself disabled, recognised the problem and founded a company called Unhidden to bring about change

The concept for Unhidden was born when Victoria was given life-saving treatment for an undiagnosed stomach ulcer Spending a lot of time in hospital, she became aware of the number of patients having to constantly undress to be seen by doctors

The first adaptive fashion brand to join the British Fashion Council, Unhidden sells garments for men and women “to provide access, modesty, dignity and style”

When Victoria heard about Shani’s experience dressing for Queen Camilla’s reception, she offered to expand her range for people of short stature

Victoria says: “With one billion people on our planet experiencing some kind of disability, that’s a huge amount of people who are unable to wear what they want to wear I want to prevent clothing-related issues causing barriers to social participation for disabled people ”

Opening hours: 9 30am-1 30pm, Tues and Thurs personalbudgets@ disabilityrightsuk org

n Disabled Students Helpline Tel 0330 995 0414

Opening hours: 11am-1pm on Tues and Thurs

students@disabilityrightsuk org

n Scope’s Disabilty Information and Advice Line (DIAL) Freephone 0808 800 3333

MUSIC MAESTRO!

THE FIRST exam repertoire lists for pianists playing with one hand is hitting all the right notes

The new syllabus covers grades 1 to 5 and features 62 pieces including music by Chopin, Sartorio, Arlen & Harburg and emerging composers

Nicholas McCarthy, the first one-handed pianist to graduate from the Royal College of Music, said: “I’ve loved being the lead consultant on such an exciting project

“I know people are going to really enjoy getting to know the pieces in the syllabus and I can’t wait to hear students perform them ”

Ali Bowen-Davies, head of assessment and curriculum at the Associate Board of Royal Schools of Music, said: “These lists for are a landmark in piano assessment

“We hope it will open up the world of piano playing for people with a range of upper limb differences and impairments ”

Nic opens up world of piano

Master stroke Master stroke

THE work of a celebrated UK artist with Down syndrome adorns a fundraising Christmas c for a national charity this year.

Fiona Stevenson, whose art has been exhibited in London and New York, was asked to donate a painting to help raise money for Down Syndrome UK

Charity boss Nicola Enoc said: “We were absolutely delighted when she agreed! At DSUK, we’re deeply passionate about showcasing the achievements of individuals with Down syndrome ”

Fiona’s card is one of several by artists with Down syndrome helping to raise funds

n www downsyndromeuk co uk

n View Fiona’s virtual galleries at www fionastevenson co uk

VISUAL PROBLEMS

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332

n BARROW Tel 01229 820698

n BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200

n BLACKBURN

Tel 0125 554143

n BLACKPOOL: N-Vision

Tel 01253 362696

n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014

n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507

Aiming high

ARTS charity Attitude is Everything is laying down new access standards for theatres, galleries, museums, libraries and other creative bodies

The charity was asked to take on the project by All In – a nationwide access scheme representing the UK’s four arts councils

Hip Hippo-ray!

inued from previous pageBIRMINGHAM Hippodrome is edging closer to becoming the most accessible venue of its size in the UK

The theatre is taking on Access & Inclusion Advocates, who will meet monthly to share ideas and experiences aimed at dismantling barriers to individual and

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121

n CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support Tel 01244 381515

n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474

n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613

n GUIDE DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555

n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 234 or 0151 708 7055

n LIVERPOOL: Bradbury Fields Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 298 3222

n MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252

n PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550

n OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019

n ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256

n SIGHTLINE (North West)

Tel 0800 587 2252

n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891

n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877

HEARING ISSUES

n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101

n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831

n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434

n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180

n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre Tel 0161 273 3415

Genie Networks Tel 0161 941 4549 Text 18001 0161 941 4549

n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888

n SOUTHPORT Centre for the Deaf Tel 01704 537001

n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887

n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902

705959 / 486923 MIDLANDS

n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000

n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143

n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES

n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828

n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797

n CONWY Tel 01492 533714

n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS Tel: 0845 603 3187

nDOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167

n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436

n WREXHAM CARERS SERVICE

KEY ROLE: Nicholas McCarthy help compile lists for painists with one hand

AT WORK: Fiona Stevenson Inset, her Christmas card

This winter, think

Prepare for winter; insulate your pipes; protect them with lagging. It’s easy!

As the temperature drops and nights draw in, it’s time to wrap up – winter’s here!

Getting your home ready for the cold weather and all it brings means you’re more likely to stay warm and happy and enjoy a hassle free winter.

Rose Francis from United Utilities says:

“Insulating your water pipes to protect them from the cold will save the hassle and expense if they freeze and burst. We want our customers to enjoy a carefree Christmas. The good news is it’s really easy to prevent this from happening.”

Go to unitedutilities.com/winterwise for great tips on how to keep warm and protected this winter including how-to guides and videos.

Support when you need it most

We can all benefit from a bit of extra help at some stage in our lives. This could be due to age, ill health, disability, mental health problems, financial worries or language barriers. Registering for our Priority Services means you’ll benefit from a range of additional services so we can respond quickly to your specific needs. Register now at unitedutilities.com/priorityservices or call us on 0345 672 2888.

Steps to prevent frozen, burst pipes

Step 1. Lag your pipes

Pay extra attention to the pipes in the garage, loft or outside your home as these are the ones most likely to freeze when the temperature drops. Your local DIY shop should have everything you need; just remember to use waterproof lagging for any outdoor pipes. Pipe lagging is cheap and easy to fit.

Step 2. Find your stop tap

Your stop tap controls the flow of water into your home. It’s usually found under the kitchen sink, or sometimes in the cellar or garage. It’s handy to know where it is so you can turn the water off quickly if your pipes freeze or burst.

Found it? Make sure your stop tap is working. It’s also worth checking if your household insurance covers burst pipes.

Step 3. Keep your heating on low

Keeping your central heating on low during a cold spell will prevent your pipes from freezing. Make sure the heating comes on when you’re away too; you don’t want to come back to a flooded home after a relaxing winter break.

Lots of modern boilers have a frost setting. Handy for preventing frozen pipes when your central heating is not in full use.

l Until Dec 29: Sleeping Beauty Storyhouse, Chester Audio described/signed, Dec 8; relaxed, Dec 14; captioned, Dec 15

l Until Dec 29: Jack & The Beanstalk Venue Cymru, Llandudno Signed and audio described, Dec 15; relaxed, Dec 27.

l Until Dec 31: Cinderella Pavilion, Rhyl

l Until Jan 4: The Jungle Book Octagon, Bolton Signed /captioned, Dec 6; audio described, Dec 7; relaxed, Jan 3

l Until Jan 4: A Christmas Carol The Lowry, Salford The classic Dickens story comes to life in this musical Audio described/touch tour, signed, dementia friendly, Dec 21

l Until Jan 4: The Rocky Horror Show Playhouse, Liverpool

l Until Jan 5: Aladdin. The Brindley, Runcorn

l Until Jan 5: Come From Away The Lowry, Salford Smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the Newfoundland community that invited these “come from aways” into their lives with open hearts Audio described/touch tour, Dec 15/Jan 2; captioned, Dec 13; dementia friendly, Dec 15

l Until Jan 5: The Further Advenures of Peter Pan – The Return of Captain Hook Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

l Until Jan 12: Wicked Palace Theatre, Manchester The magic that shaped the destinies of two unlikely friends on their remarkable journey to becoming Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West Audio described, Dec 17; signed, Dec 19; captioned, Jan 8

l Until Jan 18: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto: Rapunzel Everyman, Liverpool Signed, Dec 17 Relaxed, Jan 7 Captioned, Jan 18

l Until Jan 19: Mother Goose – The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto Theatr Clwyd, Mold Signed, Dec 13, Jan 4; audio described, Dec 7, Jan 16; captioned, Dec 23, Jan 10; relaxed, Jan 15

Dec 8: The Bootleg Beatles in Concert Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 10-Jan 5: Stick Man The Lowry, Salford Audio described/touch tour, Dec 21; relaxed, Dec 23; signed, Dec 27

Dec 11: Kate Rusby Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 11-Jan 5: Disney’s Aladdin Empire, Liverpool

Dec 13-Jan 5: Dick Whittington Regent Theatre, Stoke Audio described/signed, Dec 19

Dec 13-24: Beauty and the Beast Lyceum, Crewe

Dec 13-30: Rudolph The Reindeer ’s Christmas Roadshow Octagon, Bolton

Dec 13: Michael Head & The Red Elastic Band Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 14: White Christmas Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 14-Jan 5: Cinderella Opera House, Manchester ason Manford is back as Prince Charming and joined by Ben Nickless and Myra DuBois Relaxed performance, Dec 30

Dec 17-18 Spirit of Christmas Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 20: Candlelight Carols. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool Dec 21-23: Spirit

Christmas crackers

ABOVE: The Christmas movie classic It’s A Wonderful Life, starring James Stewart, is back in town – Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Dec 22 & 24,

RIGHT: Phylip Harries is back in the much-loved rock ‘n’ roll panto – Mother Goose, Theatr Clwyd, Mold, until Jan 19

oChristmas Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 21-22: Family Concert: Santa Comes to Town! Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 22 and Dec 24: It’s a Wonderful Life

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool Film

Dec 23: Organ Sleigh Ride Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 24: The Muppet Christmas Carol Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 28-Dec 31: Little Penguin’s First Christmas The Lowry, Salford

Dec 29: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Horrors in Concert Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Dec 31: Thank You for the Music: ABBA on New Year ’s Eve Show-stopping orchestral celebration of the band’s songs Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 1: New Year ’s Day Proms Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 2: Dick Whittington Regent Theatre, Stoke Relaxed performance

Jan 7-18: An Inspector Calls The Lowry, Salford Signed, Jan 15; touch tour, Jan 18; audio described, Jan 18.

Jan 8: Taylormania Opera House, Manchester

Jan 9: Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Jan 10: Varna International Ballet –

Swan Lake Empire, Liverpool

Jan 10: The Chicago Blues Brothers – The Repeated Tour. Opera House, Manchester

Jan 11: Varna International Ballet –The Nutcracker Empire, Liverpool

Jan 11: Messiah Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 12: Some Guys Have All The Luck William Aston Hall, Wrexham Rod Stewart tribute show

Jan 12: The Glenn Miller Orchestra Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 12: Everton Legends – 40th Anniversary Empire, Liverpool Graeme Sharp, Tony Cottee, Ian Snodin and Peter Reid

Jan 13: Romeo and Juliet Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 14: Swan Lake Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 15: The Nutcracker Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 15: Psychic Sally Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 15: An Evening with Jeff Stelling Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Jan 16-22: Jake Lambert: The Sunshine Kid. Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 16-19: Shen Yun: China Before Communism Palace Theatre, Manchester

Jan 16-18: Annie Empire, Liverpool Musical

Jan 16: Swan Lake. Opera House, Manchester

Jan 16: Northern Live The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 16: Sathnam Sanghera. Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 16: The George Michael Legacy Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 17-18: The Classic Rock Show

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 17: Rat Pack Live Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 17: Buble by Candlelight Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Jan 17: Justin Moorhouse. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Jan 17: Paradise Found Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 17: The Rod Stewart Songbook The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 17: A Tribute to the Carpenters Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 17: Chrissy Rock – Stand Up To Suicide The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 17: An Evening with Jeff Stelling William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Jan 17: London Symphonic Rock Orchestra. Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Jan 18-19: The Little York Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 18: The Nutcracker Opera House, Manchester

Jan 18: Steptoe and Son Live Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 18: Some Guys Have All The Luck Rhyl Pavilion Rod Stewart tribute show

Jan 18: Chris McCausland. Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Jan 19: Jack and His Giant Stalk Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Adult panto

Jan 19: The Classic Rock Show The Lowry, Salford

Jan 19: Some Guys Have All The Luck Grand Theatre, Blackpool Rod Stewart tribute show

Jan 19: Beautiful Trauma (Pink Tribute) Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 19: Milton Jones: Ha!milton Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 20-25: Bat Out of Hell Empire Liverpool

Jan 20-25: Only Fools and Horses Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Jan 21-25: Calamity Jane. Opera House, Manchester

Jan 22-Feb 1: Animal Farm Octagon, Bolton

Jan 22: Peter Andre starring in The Best of Frankie Valli Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 22: Milton Jones: Ha!milton. Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 23: Mark Thomas: Gaffa Tapes Playhouse, Liverpool

Jan 24: Jason Mountford Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 24: Eclipse – The Pink Floyd Experience The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 23: An Evening of Burlesque Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Jan 24: An Evening with Jeff Stelling. Pavilion, Rhyl

Jan 24: Russell Kane: Hyperactive The Lowry, Salford

Jan 25: Jack and His Giant Stalk

Lyceum, Crewe Adult panto

Jan 25: Nina Conti: Whose Face Is It Anyway? Playhouse, Liverpool

Jan 25: Sanctum Santorium The Brindley, Runcorn Alternative rock of the 80s

Jan 26: Ben Thomas as Elvis The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 26: An Evening with Aggers. Lyceum, Crewe

Jan 26: Giovanni – The Last Dance The Lowry, Salford

l Continued next pages

n Continued from Page 19

Jan 27-28: Acosta Danza –Nutcracker in Havana The Lowry, Salford

Jan 27: Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman Empire, Liverpool

Jan 27: Giovanni – The Last Dance. Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 28-Feb 1: NOW That’s What I Call a Musical Opera House, Manchester

Jan 28-29: Shen Yun: China Before Communism. Regent Theatre, Stoke

Jan 28: Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity Theatre Royal, St Helens

Jan 28: Queen Extravaganza Empire, Liverpool

Jan 29-Feb 1: Buffy Revamped The Lowry, Salford

Jan 29: Greg Davis: Full Fa Legend Empire, Liverpool

Jan 29: Psychic Sally Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Jan 29: Jason Fox: Life At The Limit Theatre Royal St Helens

Jan 30-Feb 1: 10 Nights The Lowry, Salford

Jan 30: London Symphonic Orchestra The Lowry, Salford

Jan 30: Michael starring Ben Theatre Royal, St Helens Tribute

show

Jan 30: Jason Fox: Life at the Limit William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Jan 30: Al Murray – Guv Island Lyceum, Crewe

Jan 30: Showaddywaddy

The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 30: Queenz: Drag Me to the Disco Storyhouse, Chester

Jan 31-Feb 1 Chris McCausland: Yonks! Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Jan 31: Barry Steele & Friends –The Roy Orbison Story The Brindley, Runcorn

Jan 31: Jason Fox: Life At The Limit Lyceum, Crewe

BOX OFFICE CONTACTS

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

MANCHESTER

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

Men of the wild

n ABOVE: Ben Fogle going Wild at The Lowry, Salford, Mar 10; and at the Storyhouse, Chester, Mar 11

n LEFT: Jason Fox – Life At The Limit, Theatre Royal, St Helens, Jan 29; William Aston Hall, Wrexham, Jan 30; and Lyceum, Crewe, Jan 31

ALL SET FOR A FEAST

Jan 31: Back in the Day Floral Pavilion, New Brighton From MTV to Glastonbury

Feb 1-12: 025 Dance Regent Theatre Stoke

Feb 1-2: Hope Mill – Nine in Concert The Lowry, Salford

Feb 1: Drag Me To The 80s. Theatre Royal, St Helens

Feb 1: Man in the Mirror – Tribute to Michael Jackson Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 2: UK Pink Floyd Experience Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 2: Matt Forde: End of an Era

The Lowry, Salford

Feb 2: Puccini Madama Butterfly Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 2: Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe. Empire, Liverpool

Feb 2: Turn the Beat Around Palace Theatre, Manchester

Feb 2: Al Murray – Guv Island Opera House, Manchester

Feb 2: The ELO Show Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 2: Cutting Crew Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool Feb 2: The History of Rock. Pavilion, Rhyl

Feb 4-9: Rita, Sue and Bob Too! Theatre Royal, St Helens

Feb 4-8: The Shark is Broken The Lowry, Salford Dive into the drama behind the scenes of Hollywood’s first blockbuster

Signed, audio described, touch tour, Feb 6

Feb 4-8: The Merchant of Venice Playhouse, Liverpool Tensions in London’s East End are rising and Shylock, a resilient single mother and hard-working businesswoman, is desperate to protect her daughter ’s future

Feb 4-8: Kinky Boots Palace Theatre, Manchester Musical starring Strictly Come Dancing’s Johannes Radebe

Feb 4: Goddesses – A History with Jasmine Elmer Storyhouse, Chester

Feb 4: Psychic Sally Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 4: The Story of Guitar Heroes. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 5-9: Floella Benjamin’s Coming to England The Lowry, Salford

Feb 5-7: Heartbreak: The Tom Petty Show Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool Tribute show

Feb 5: Vacant Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

All the hits, attitude and fashion of the Punk and New Wave era

Feb 5: Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity. Storyhouse, Chester

Feb 6: Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 6: Walk Like a Man. William Aston Hall, Wrexham Franki Valli tribute show

Feb 6: Spice Girls Experience Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 7-Mar 8: Shirley Valentine Octagon, Bolton Signed/captioned, Feb 25; audio described, Mar 1

Feb 7: Showaddywaddy William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Feb 7: Screening – Les Miserables: The Staged Concert Live Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 7: Beyond the Barricade. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Music from Les Miserables

Feb 7: Ellen Kent: La Boheme Empire, Liverpool

Feb 7: Ben Elton: Authentic Stupidity. Pavilion, Rhyl

Feb 7: Dave Finnegan’s Commitments Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 7: Spice Girls Experience Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 8: Hometown Glory Candlelit Concert –

A Tribute to Adele Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 8: UK Pink Floyd Experience Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 8: Bootleg Eagles Pavilion, Rhyl Tribute show

Feb 8: Ellen Kent: Madama Butterfly Empire, Liverpool

Feb 8: FASTLOVE: The Tribute to George Michael Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 9: Queenz – Drag Me to the Disco Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 9: Giovanni – The Last Dance Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 10-16: 2005 Welsh Open – Snooker Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 10-15: Chicago Empire, Liverpool Musical

Feb 11-15: The Girl on a Train The Lowry, Salford This gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment

Feb 11-12: Myra’s Story Lyceum, Crewe The incredible story of middle-aged homeless alcoholic Myra McLaughlin living rough on the streets of Dublin

Feb 11: John Shuttleworth: Raise The Oof Playhouse, Liverpool

Feb 12-15: Hold Onto Your Butts

The Lowry, Salford

Feb 12: Paul Jones & Dave Kelly

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 12: Rave On – The Ultimate

Jaws- dropping

Dive into the drama behind the scenes of Hollywood’s first blockbuster Feb 4-8: The Shark is Broken The Lowry, Salford Signed, audio described, touch tour, Feb 6

Su’s fully charged

Su Pollard’s back with lots of laughs –Grand, Blackpool, Feb 17; Pavilion, Rhyl, Mar 20; Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, Mar 23.

Alison’s 40th

Alison Moyet celebrates 40 years as a solo artist Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Feb 24

OF WINTER TREATS

Feb 14-Mar 8: The Peaceful Hour Royal Court, Liverpool Kirkby, 1985 one night in the life of a young couple whose destiny is guided by the stars They just want to find what love means

Feb 14-15: Under the Mersey Moon Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Danny Rogers, a struggling country musician from Liverpool, embarks on a make-or-break pilgrimage to Nashville Local radio legend Billy Butler and his wife Lesley join the cast

Feb 14: Symphonic 90s. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 14: The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight Opera House, Manchester

Feb 14: Man in the Mirror – A Michael Jackson Tribute. Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 14: 60s Gold William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Feb 14: The Magic of Motown Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 15-Mar 2: The Parent Agency – The Musical Storyhouse, Chester New show based on David Baddiel’s bestselling book Choosing a new mum and dad seems like a dream come true for 11-years-old Barry But he soon learns that it isn’t as simple as it sounds Feb 15: Sleeping Beauty Pavilion, Rhyl The adult version

Feb 15: Mercury 2025 William Aston Hall, Wrexham Tribute show

Feb 15: John Barrowman Laid Bare Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 15: An Evening of Burlesque Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 15: The Tremeloes & The Searchers Experience Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 16: The Beatles – A Musical Celebration Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 16: Mark Thomas: Gaffa Tapes Storyhouse, Chester

Feb 16: The Simon & Garfunkel Story Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 16: Paddy McGuinness: Nearly There Empire, Liverpool

Feb 16: A Night to Remember – A Motown Show Octagon, Bolton

Feb 16: What’s Love Got to do with It? Opera House, Manchester Tina Turner tribute show

Feb 16: Story of Guitar Heroes Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 17: Su Pollard – Still Fully Charged Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 17: Manchester United Legends Opera House, Manchester Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister

Feb 18-22: Dear Evan Hansen Palace Theatre, Manchester Musical Meet Evan: an

anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in

Feb 18-22: The Baddies Playhouse, Liverpool A laugh-out-loud riot for all

Feb 18-22: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Empire, Liverpool

Feb 18: Northern Live – Do I Love You. Opera House, Manchester

Feb 18: Queenz – Drag Me To The Disco Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 19: An Evening with Geoff Hurst Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 19: An Evening with Jeff Stelling Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 19: Folk Horror The Brindley, Runcorn

Feb 19: Ministry of Science LIVE – Science

Saved the World. Regent Theatre, Stoke

Feb 20-22: Steve Steinman’s Vampires Rock

Eternal Love – The Musical Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 20-21: John Bishop: Back At It Pavilion, Rhyl

Feb 20: MANIA – The Abba Tribute Opera House, Manchester

Feb 20: Sing-a-Long a The Greatest Showman/Greece Regent Theatre, Stoke

Feb 20: Fireman Sam Live! The Great Camping Adventure Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 21: Jon Culshaw: Imposter Syndrome Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 21: H Ariana Live. Lyceum, Crewe Tribute show

Feb 21: Chris de Burgh Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 21: Ellen Kent: La Boheme Opera House, Manchester

Feb 22: Ellen Kent: Madama Butterfly Opera House, Manchester

Feb 22-23: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Brindley, Runcorn

Feb 22: Jon Culshaw: Imposter Syndrome William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Feb 23: The Little Mermaid Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Feb 23: Jon Culshaw: Imposter Syndrome Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Feb 23: WSO: East Meets West William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Feb 23: Ellen Kent: La Traviata Opera House, Manchester

Feb 23: Taylormania – All Era. Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 23: John Partridge – Dancing Man Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 24: Bat Out of Hell Palace Theatre, Manchester Musical

Feb 24: Alison Moyet Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 24: The Little Mermaid Pavilion, Rhyl Feb 25-Mar 2: Frozen Light: The Ancient Oak of Balador. The Lowry, Salford A multisensory experience for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities and companions

Feb 25-Mar 1: The Merchant of Venice 1936 The Lowry, Salford Audio described/touch tour, Feb 26; signed, Mar 1

Feb 25-Mar 1: Ghost Stories The Lowry, Salford More spine-tingling and fantastically terrifying than ever Signed, Feb 26; audio described/touch tour, Feb 27

Feb 25-Mar 1: An Inspector Calls Grand Theatre, Blackpool When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman Audio described, Mar 1 Feb 25: James Martin. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool The celebrity chef is back on the road

Feb 25: Pretty Vacant – The Story of New Wave and Punk Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 26-Mar 9: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Opera House, Manchester Musical

Feb 26-Mar 2: Rita, Sue & Bob Too! Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Two girls from a rundown council estate are about to finish their final year at school In their spare time, they earn money by babysitting for married couple Bob and Michelle

Feb 26: Queen Extravaganza Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 26: Clinton Baptiste Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 27: Lost in Music – One Night at the Disco Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 27: James Martin Venue Cymru, Llandudno Celebrity chef back on the road

Feb 27: Clinton Baptiste: Roller Ghoster Theatre Royal, St Helens

Feb 28: Rob Lamberti Presents Perfectly George Theatre Royal, St Helens Tribute show

l Continued next page

l Continued from previous page

Feb 28-Mar 1: Cabaret Dunbar: The Missing Star The Brindley, Runcorn

Feb 28-Mar 1: Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake Empire, Liverpool

Feb 28: John Barrowman: Laid Bare. William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Feb 28: Banff Film Festival Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Feb 28: Lou Sanders: No Kissing in the Bingo Hall. Lyceum, Crewe

Feb 28: Jack Savoretti

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Feb 28: Dreamtime Fellrunner Storyhouse, Chester Poetic, fun and moving exploration of Julie Carter ’s running exploits on the Lakeland fells

Mar 1-29: Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine Everyman, Liverpool Lifeaffirming story of one woman’s journey of self-discovery Playing Shirley is Liverpool actor Helen Carter

Mar 1: Barbara Storyhouse, Chester

(2 30pm) Warm and affectionate show

featuring plenty of belly laughs and a good singsong in a show that explores dementia, revealing what it means to care for someone you love when they lose their way

Mar 1: Hometown Glory – Candlelight Concert Lyceum, Crewe

Mar 1: Lou Sanders: No Kissing in the Bingo Hall Playhouse, Liverpool

Mar 1: An Evening of Burlesque Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 2: Chris McCausland The Lowry, Salford

Mar 2: Jim Davidson – The Next Chapter Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 2: Franck Symphony in D minor

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 2: Gareth Gates Sings Frankie Valli Pavilion, Rhyl

Mar 3-8: The Rocky Horror Show Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Mar 3: Brit Floyd: Wish You Were Here Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 4-8: NOW That’s What I Call a Musical Empire, Liverpool

Mar 4-8: War Horse Regent Theatre, Stoke Musical

Mar 5-8: Made in Dagenham Lyceum, Crewe Musical Essex, 1968 When Ford’s Dagenham car plant drops female workers’ pay, working mum Rita leads her friends in a battle against the mighty company and the corrupted union supposed to protect them

Mar 4: All Blood Runs Red The Lowry, Salford The extraordinary true life of Eugene Bullard – runaway, circus entertainer, boxer, night club owner, World War One fighter pilot, jazz drummer, spy, and civil rights activist

Mar 5-8: Boys from the Blackstuff Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Mar 5: Russell Kane: Hyperactive. Pavilion, Rhyl

Mar 5: Fish Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 5: Celebrating Celine Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 6-8: Birmingham Royal Ballet –Cinderella The Lowry, Salford

Mar 6: Murder Staged Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 6: Russell Kane: Hyperactive William Aston Hall, Wrexham

Mar 7-8: Karen The Brindley, Runcorn Lynne Fitzgerald’s new, one-woman comedy

Mar 7: Taylormania

OH dear, what would Mr Bellamy say about this? Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of ) The Lowry, Salford, Mar 18-22: Audio described, touch tour, signed, Mar 22

CHRIS McCausland – Yonks! Grand Theatre, Blackpool, Jan 18; Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool, Jan 31-Feb 1; The Lowry, Salford, Mar 2

New Year laughs

ALYSSA Kyria’s one-woman comedy show, The Funny Mummy – Mar 21, Storyhouse, Chester

JOHN Bishop –Back At It! Pavilion, Rhyl, Feb 20-21; Venue Cymru, Mar 13-14

Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 7: Harry Hill Pavilion, Rhyl

Mar 8: TRASH! Storyhouse, Chester Four creative workers give a new life to all kind of waste

Mar 8: Jason Donovan – Doin’ Fine The Lowry, Salford

Mar 8: Martin Kemp: Back to the 80s DJ Set Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Mar 9: Pride of Ireland Grand Theatre, Blackpool Mike Denver and Dominic Kirwin

Mar 9: Beyond the Barricade Lyceum, Crewe Music from Les Miserables

Mar 10: Ben Fogle: Wild. The Lowry, Salford

Mar 11-22: Blood Brothers Empire, Liverpool

Mar 11-15: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Palace Theatre, Manchester

Mar 11-15: Northern Soul – Do I Love You? Octagon, Bolton

Mar 11-15: Ghost Stories Playhouse, Liverpool

Mar 11: Ben Fogle: Wild Storyhouse, Chester

Mar 11: Pride of Ireland The Brindley, Runcorn Mike Denver and Dominic Kirwan

Mar 11: Sherlock versus Dracula The Brindley, Runcorn

Mar 11: Giovanni – The Last Dance Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Mar 12-13: The Smartest Giant in Town. Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 12: Giovanni – The Last Dance Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Mar 12: Rave On – The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience. The Brindley, Runcorn

Mar 13-14: John Bishop – Back At It Venue Cymru Llandudno

Mar 13: The Fureys The Brindley, Runcorn

Mar 13: Jenny Éclair. Storyhouse, Chester

Mar 13: An Evening with Liverpool FC Legends Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Bruce Grobbelaar, Ronnie Whelan, Gary Gillespie, Ray Houghton, Peter Beardsley, John Aldridge, Steve McMahon and more!

Mar 14: Music & Laughter Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Stan Boardman, Ricky Tomlinson, Sean Styles and Gary Murphy Band

Mar 14: Perfectly Frank: A Salute to Frank Sinatra The Brindley, Runcorn

Mar 14: Go Your Own Way Pavilion, Rhyl Fleetwood Mac tribute show

Mar 15-16: Room on the Broom Lyceum, Crewe

Mar 15: Candace Bushnell – True Tales of Sex, Success and Sex in the City Opera House, Manchester

Mar 15: Bronwen Lewis Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Mar 15: Opera North – The Flying Dutchman. The Lowry, Salford

Mar 16: Elkie Brooks – The Long Farewell

Tour The Lowry, Salford

Mar 16: Spice Girls Experience. Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 17: Saving Tinderella Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 17: Wardruna Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 17: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners Opera House, Manchester

Mar 18-22: Dear Evan Hansen Storyhouse, Chester Musical Meet Evan, an anxious high school kid who just wants to fit in Mar 18-22: Pig Heart Boy Playhouse, Liverpool Is it better to have a pig’s heart that works than a human heart that doesn’t? Cameron is 13, and all he wants is to be normal

Mar 18-22: Pride and Prejudice

(Sort Of ) The Lowry, Salford Audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story Audio described, touch tour, signed, Mar 22

Mar 18: An Audience with Liverpool Legends. Venue Cymru, Llandudno John Barnes leads the attack

Mar 19: The Story of Guitar Heroes Theatre Royal, St Helens

Mar 19: Rob Beckett: Giraffe Opera House, Manchester

Mar 20: The Greatest Barbra Streisand Concert Theatre Royal, St Helens Tribute show

Mar 20: Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged. Pavilion, Rhyl

Mar 20: Phil Walker –Happy Bunny The Brindley, Runcorn

Mar 20: The Story of Guitar Heroes Lyceum, Crewe

Mar 20-21: Driftwood The Lowry, Salford An inspiring story about hope, love and belonging All performances have integrated creative captions

Mar 21-Apr 19: Red or Dead Royal Court, Liverpool Peter Mullan (Ozark, Westworld, Mum) is Bill Shankly in an amazing new show adapted from David Peace’s iconic novel

Mar 21-22: The King’s Voice Octagon, Bolton Gordon Hendricks as Elvis

Mar 21: The Funny Mummy Storyhouse, Chester Alyssa Kyria’s one-woman comedy show

Mar 21: Bat To Hell – A Tribute to Meat Loaf & Jim Steinman Theatre Royal St Helens

Mar 21: Kim Wilde Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 21: Showaddywaddy Lyceum, Crewe

Mar 21: Rave On: The Ultimate 50s & 60s Experience Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Mar 21: Gareth Gates: Love Songs from the Movies. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Mar 22: Al Murray: Guv Island Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Mar 22: The Drifters Pavilion, Rhyl

Mar 22: Jason Donovan. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 23: Mike + The Mechanics Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Mar 23: Su Pollard – Still Fully Charged Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

Mar 24: Manchester City

Legends The Brindley, Runcorn Paul Dickov, Nicky Weaver and Peter Reid

Mar 24: Mike + The Mechanics Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool

Mar 25-29: Boys From The Blackstuff. Empire, Liverpool

Mar 25-29: Little Women Grand Theatre Blackpool

Mar 25-29: SIX The Musical Storyhouse, Chester

HOW PLANTS GOT THEIR NAMES . . .

THE popular Christmas cactus –Schlumbergera truncata – was brought to Europe from Brazil in the 19th century and quickly became popular

William Buckley, an English plant breeder at Tooting, London, developed a hybrid by crossing this with another Brazilian species and the plant now sold as Schlumbergera Buckleyi is

thought to be the original Christmas cactus.

The name schlumbergera commemorates Frédéric Schlumberger, who had compiled a collection of cacti at his chateau in France.

A similar species, zygocactus, is sometimes sold as Christmas cactus but in fact blooms earlier.

Christmas cactus: Schlumbergera truncata TIP OF THE SEASON

l INDOOR flowering bulbs in pots such as amaryllis and hyacinth are sometimes top-heavy and flop over as the flowers open

l Instead of sticking in unattractive canes or plastic gadgets to support the blooms, use twiggy stems cut from outdoor shrubs or trees

l Sprigs of winter-flowering shrubs such as winter jasmine, skimmia, viburnum and daphne look best

Beauty and the feast!

Beauty and the feast!

ALAWN can look, well, a little boring, but can be given a beautiful boost with a new apple tree

It will add a focal point, even to the dreariest strip of grass; the blossom will be as attractive as that of most ornamental trees – and is delicately scented; and then comes the pleasure of seeing the fruit ripen in colours from golden-green to rosy-red, depending on the variety

Many of the best British varieties are rarely sold in shops but are available as young trees

It is best to choose a “self-fertile” kind because some need another type around –some need two others – to pollinate the flowers and produce fruit

First to produce ripe fruit each year is Discovery, a lovely crisp, red apple, but it is self-sterile so needs another variety nearby

Some of the finest traditional kinds include Egremont Russet, green with russet speckles; Granny Smith, large and yellow-

green; Laxton’s Superb, green with a dark red flush; James Grieve, pale green with crimson stripes; Worcester Pearmain, bright red; and Golden Delicious, golden-green and especially delicious if picked from your own tree

A pear tree can produce an even more luscious crop but most varieties are not selffertile although there is a notable exception – the variety Conference I pick a large crop from one small tree most years

All of these can be grown in quite small lawns as long as they are planted well away from walls and buildings

The eventual size of a tree depends on its rootstock so that should be checked carefully when buying Rootstock M27 is for

patio pots, M9 will produce a 2 5m tree when fully mature; M26 goes to 3 5m and MM106 to 4m

Most trees do not produce much fruit for the first two or three years but once into full cropping they provide a feast for 20 or 30 years

Planting is best done from November but can be carried out through to March as long as the ground is not frosted or very wet

The planting hole must be wide enough to accommodate all the roots when spread out and deep enough to add as much compost as possible (John Innes No 3 is ideal) plus any well-rotted manure or garden compost available

Plastic containers must be removed completely but hessian wrapped round rootballs, if difficult to separate, can be left

flat underneath the roots when planting and will eventually rot away

The tree should be planted at the same level as it was previously in the ground or its container

The “union” between rootstock and scion, usually visible as a slight bump on the trunk near the ground, should not be buried and the soil should be trodden down to firm in the roots

New trees also need to be supported with a stake attached to the trunk with a special rubber tree-tie for the first two or three years to prevent wind-rock from damaging the roots A stake 1m (3ft) tall is driven halfway into the ground when the roots are in position but before they are covered up

Watering is crucial for at least the first two years after planting Several gallons should be given at the least sign of dryness Winter prun encourages growth, summer pruning fruit

FIRST TO RIPEN: Discovery apples

FOCAL POINT: Apple blossom

HARVEST: Peter Surridge with a crop of Conference pears from one small tree

POPULAR: Schlumbergera truncata

1. Seller of precious stones (8)

5.

Palpitate (5)

(7)

Below (5) 13. Creative person (6) 15. Warwickshire town (5) 17. Deep red (4)

19. Male swan (3)

20. Tribe (4)

21. Sprout (5)

23. Push roughly (6)

24. Topic (5)

28. Languish (5)

29. Small quantity (7)

1. Summer month (4) 2. Goods vehicle (5) 3. Rubbish (6)

4. Republic of Ireland (4)

6. Biased (7)

7. Discussing (8)

8. Tale (5)

12. Frill (5)

13. Monastic head (5)

14. Condemn unheard (8)

16. Sticky substance (inf.) (3) 18. Woodwind instrument (7) 21. Incline (5)

22. Area of Kent (6) 25. Criminal organisation (5) 26. Freshwater fish (4)

Blood ---- (4) 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.

The Accumulator Quiz

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:

Who sailed in the Mayflower to New England, America?

A Sir Walter Raleigh

B The Pilgrim Fathers

C The Ancient Mariner

D Sir Francis Drake

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points:

What was the Greek scholar Aesop famous for?

A Fables

B Mathematics

C Comedies

D Astronomy

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points:

Who was the first president of the United States?

A Benjamin Franklin

B Abraham Lincoln

C George Washington

D Thomas Jefferson

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points:

English actor Martin Freeman played the character of Tim Canterbury in which television sitcom?

A The Vicar of Dibley

B The Thin Blue Line

C Men Behaving Badly

D The Office

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points:

What condition is also called vertigo?

A Measles

B Athlete’s foot

C Dizziness

D Colour blindness

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points:

Who wrote the autobiography What You See is What You Get?

A Richard Branson

30. Sicilian volcano (4) 31. Theoretical (8)

B Alan Sugar

C Philip Green

D Rupert Murdoch

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.

4

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points:

What is the capital city of Australia?

A Melbourne

B Sydney

C Perth

D Canberra

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points:

Which of the following elements is represented by the letter K?

A Krypton

B Tungsten

C Cobalt

D Potassium

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points:

Where was the nightclub Studio 54, made famous by celebrities like Mick Jagger and Andy Warhol?

A London

B New York

C Paris

D Los Angeles

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.

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points:

Which crop is attacked by the boll weevil?

A Rice B Maize

C Cotton

D Sugar cane

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points:

Which novel was based on the life story of Alexander Selkirk?

A Coral Island

B Robinson Crusoe

C Lucky Jim

D Westward Ho!

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points:

Which of these actors has not portrayed Tarzan?

A Charlton Heston

B Johnny Weissmuller

C Alexander Skarsgard

D Christopher Lambert

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points:

Which was the only single by Fleetwod Mac to reach No 1 on the UK singles chart?

A Tusk

B Go Your Own Way

C Don’t Stop

D Albatross

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points:

What is the common name for iron pyrite ?

A Fool’s gold

B Stainless steel

C Chrome

D Aluminium

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points:

Which animals are classed as batrachians?

A Frogs and toads

B Rabbits and hares

C Rats and mice

D Camels

English actor Martin Freeman. See Question

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 dessert.

DIALLING CODES

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. things found and sold in fish and chip shops

288 837 331 765 517 524

231 472 891 347 412 253 174 316 874 917 327 153

824 871 725 812 631 228 837 331 728 724 314 233 625 128 779 172 823

4. outdoor clothing brands

227 268 716 377 355 172 566 661 733 316 276 681 873 772 771 237 442 871 666 826 312 658 624 212 724 467 737 718 431 667 841 322 317 342 882

PATHWORDS

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 21

2. electronic dance music artists 328 269 175 461 347 561 663 378 371 323

MAKE A DATE

In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?

1. Food rationing is officially ended in Great Britain.

2. Racial segregation is banned in all US state schools.

3. Construction work begins on Walt Disney’s Disneyland site. WAS IT? a) 1945; b) 1948; c) 1951; d) 1954; e) 1957.

Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition? WORD WIZARD

KININ

1) An astringent resinous substance that exudes from various tropical trees;

2) A plant hormone which promotes celldivision, and is used commercially as a preservative for cut flowers;

3) A rich silk fabric embroidered with gold or silver thread, made in India.

Utter + B = Butter.

A = 1; B = 5; C = 4; D = 2; E = 3; F = 6. Missing Link store; oven; robin; back; exit; trail. Dessert: sorbet. Make a Date The year was 1954. Transformer

6. mountain; ski boots; salopettes; powder; slalom; goggles; slope; carving; freestyle; Après-ski; snow; balaclava; skis. Spot Check

4. Barbour; Merrell; Salomon; Reef; Marmot; Trespass; Berghaus; Montane; Columbia; Craghoppers; The North Face; Regatta.

3. Snoopy; Toto; Lady; Fang; Tramp; Pongo; Deputy; Gromit; Snowy; Gnasher; Pippin; Lassie; Timmy; Krypto; Buck; Pluto; Goofy.

Dialling Codes 1. buttered roll; plaice; gravy; shfi cake; pie; mushy peas; ketchup; salt; cod; battered sausage; haddock; curry sauce. 2. Fatboy Slim; Diplo; Modestep; Daft Punk; Disclosure; Skrillex; David Guetta; Nero; Calvin Harris; Moby; The Prodigy.

5. Batman Begins; RED; Million Dollar Baby; Bruce Almighty; Oblivion; The Shawshank Redemption; Lucy; Transcendence.

No 2 is correct. Kinin is a plant hormone.

Word Wizard

Star Name: JULIA SAWALHA

Thanet; 25 a;Mafi 26 Chub; 27 Clot.

1 July; 2 Wagon; 3 Litter; 4 Eire; 6 Partial; 7 Debating; 8 Story; 12 Ruche; 13 Abbot; 14 Prejudge; 16 Goo; 18 Bassoon; 21 Slope; 22

Across – 1 Jeweller; 5 Spud; 9 Lighter; 10 Throb; 11 Under; 13 Artist; 15 Rugby; 17 Ruby; 19 Cob; 20 Clan; 21 Shoot; 23 Jostle; 24 Theme; 28 Droop; 29 Handful; 30 Etna; 31 Abstract. Down

A; 15 – A. Starspot Crossword

C; 11

B; 10

D; 14

B; 12 – A; 13

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Strip of shore beyond the law

CRIME SCENE: Devil’s Nest in its final years, and below, as it was around 1855

KENs latest book, Even More Merseyside Tales, is available in all good bookshops or from Ken directly (as are all of his books and factsheets)

by KEN PYE

Sinners among Sinners among the swimmers the swimmers

HARD as it might be to believe for today’s visitors to New Brighton, but a section of the beachfront was once considered beyond the law

It all started after the ferry pier at the resort was destroyed in a strong gale in 1848 and had to be rebuilt

As the reconstruction work began, on the shore near the entrance to the new pier, a shack selling anything from tea to wine was erected

Local residents were outraged by this open invitation to imbibe strong liquor

And they became increasingly concerned by the unchecked growth of what had become known as the “Devil’s Nest” – a row of huts in the vicinity of the shack

These had been built in the 1820s to accommodate the men building the fort at Perch Rock, and were by now being occupied by a community of beach traders and hawkers, said to be drunken and rowdy

Their female companions, meanwhile,

were branded lewd and of questionable morals

This part of the beachfront was deemed violent, unsafe, and lawless and by 1874 the level of petty crime and assaults, often against day trippers and local residents, forced the police to take action

The borough authorities moved in to Devil’s Nest and special constables were recruited to control behaviour and evict undesirables

Indeed, this small shanty town left its mark on the steadily developing resort and town, as can be seen by the following letter from a concerned New Brighton correspondent

Published in the Liverpool Mercury newspaper, on September 19, 1876, it seems to suggest that a heinous crime may have taken place there:

On Tuesday last workers engaged excavating for the foundation of the New Brighton Aquarium found the skeleton of a human body

The remains were found about three feet below the flooring of one of the houses that originally stood there, known by the name of the “Devil’s Nest”, and which were pulled down two years ago

Up to this day (Monday) the skeleton still remains in the shed, and, though known to the police, no action has been taken; and my object in writing in hope that an inquiry might be held, and so put an end to the indifferent rumour now in circulation, for about 18 years ago a builder from Seacombe, after leaving here for his home, was never afterwards seen

By 1880, the community of ramshackle huts, sheds, and alcohol stalls had been swept away, as the more sedate and refined New Brighton waterfront began to develop

The Devil’s Nest then became merely a memory, and a source of creepy tales for local people to tell to their children

ARIES (March 21-April 20)

Be open to experiment in traditions that are alien to you on the 15th The Full Moon will bring a variety of exciting and unusual experiences Hold back from making hasty decisions on Christmas Eve 2025 stands as a blank canvas, urging you to paint a picture of joy and fulfilment

Remember, this year is yours to shape and define, Aries step forward with courage, resilience, and belief in your abilities

February is a dynamic month for Aries, marked by passion, creativity, and selfexpression It’s a time to confront obstacles and step confidently toward becoming their best selves

March encourages you to approach life with resilience, courage, and self-reflection With cosmic support, it’s time to break old habits and trust in your path towards becoming a stronger more authentic version of yourself

TAURUS (April 21-May 21)

If you’re shopping for Christmas gifts around the 12th, you will find something practical and something unusual; both items are bound to delight a close friend or loved one Your social prospects will pick up over the festive season January holds vibrant potential for personal discovery and professional evolution With celestial support, you’re poised to explore higher wisdom and expand your career path

Prepare for a transformative journey, Taurus, as the universe beckons you forward with optimism and courage

February brings Taurus a month of emotional renewal, spiritual growth, and transformative change This month encourages growth in both personal and professional realms, allowing you to navigate change with confidence

Embrace solitude in March, trust in the universe, and allow this transformative period to guide you toward a brighter, more aligned future

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

You will wish you had more time for leisure pursuits on the 12th A restless Full Moon on the 15th makes you eager for a change Your usual surroundings will lose their appeal Even in a close relationship, a clash of opinions over a political or environmental issue on the 27th should not be taken personally

January opens with celestial energies perfectly aligned to enrich your life This is a potent time for intellectual and personal growth, as this alignment fuels curiosity and drives you to break free from the ordinary February is a thrilling journey for Gemini, one that calls for embracing personal authenticity and quality connections With Venus in your sign from the 8th, you’ll experience an influx of harmony and affection, enhancing your relationships

March calls you to explore your psyche, question established beliefs, and embrace a path of authentic personal development Trust the journey, as these experiences lead you toward lasting fulfilment

CANCER (June 22-July 23)

The Full Moon on the 15th will bring an apology from someone who will admit they have wronged you in the past Christmas Eve isn’t a good time to believe unverified information Through pooling your resources, you will get a lot accomplished on the 30th and the New Moon suggests you will feel good about it too

RUSSELL GRANT What‘s in store for you this winter

January provides a rare opportunity to re-align with your inner compass, forging a deeper connection to your identity and sense of purpose, ready to embrace the year with a renewed, genuine spirit

February is a transformative month for Cancer, filled with opportunities for growth and self-realisation As Mars moves direct in the latter part of the month, you regain momentum, feeling re-energised March breathes new life into your personal sphere, fostering supportive partnerships and encouraging deeper bonds Embrace this period of connection, growth, and renewal, as the energies help align your relationships with your inner values

LEO (July 24-August 23)

Look after your health Someone who is new to your life will disappoint you mid-December

A group effort is not satisfactory and the Full Moon on the 15th will mak realise this situation cannot continue as it is You will meet an interesting person at a festive gathering on the 23rd

Overall, January offers powerful cosmic support for introspection, personal growth, and adventure

Let your curiosity lead the way this is a vibrant time to connect with your inner self, expand your boundaries, and embrace thrilling possibilities

February marks a significant and transformative period for Leo, setting the stage for personal growth and self-expression By month-end, your quiet confidence and courage guide you into a new chapter, ready to seize fresh opportunities with clarity and purpose March is a month of new horizons and opportunities

VIRGO (August 24-September 23)

The Full Moon on the 15th suggests a need to be sensible, practical and focused The 18th is going to be a tricky day when you’re dealing with some awkward people who are more critical than supportive You won’t be turning your back on all commitments on the 22nd but you will be easing off on the more serious side of life to add more fun into your days

January is a transformative time for you

Embrace this period with positivity, paving the way for meaningful development

February brings a time of introspection, healing, and personal growth Foster nurturing relationships, adopt healthier habits, and align with your true self It’s a month for self-care and meaningful connections, paving the way for a positive new beginning

March is a key time for personal growth and relationship transformation

LIBRA (September 24-October 23)

The Full Moon breathes life into an ongoing project as new information received on the 15th can be used to your benefit Some good news about a legal matter on Christmas Eve allows you to relax and enjoy the joy that is now all around you On the 30th the New Moon will leave your loved ones in no doubt about your feelings

January is about creating a balanced life, celebrating your efforts, and stepping into the new year with enthusiasm

February invites Libra to focus on relationships and self-expression The Full Moon in Leo on the 12th highlights your 11th house, emphasising the significance of your social circle and the power of supportive connections

March brings transformation and empowerment for Libra It’s a time for teamwork, adaptability, and shared dreams

SCORPIO (October 24-November 22)

An encounter or a meeting will have a hostile feel to it on the 15th The Full Moon increases the tension The New Moon on the 30th will get you thinking on how decisions you are making for the future might affect others January’s Full Moon in Cancer on 13th January illuminates opportunities in travel, education, or spirituality, encouraging you to trust your intuition and venture beyond your comfort zone It’s time to evolve and shine February brings profound transformation for Scorpio, focusing on emotional healing and spiritual growth The Full Moon on the 12th highlights your career and public image March: Embrace the change, trust your instincts, and know that every challenge faced this month paves the way for a stronger, more empowered future

SAGITTARIUS

(November 23-December 21)

Keep thinking positively and believe in your ability to turn dreams into reality The Full Moon on the 15th invites you to open up your heart to others Don’t throw in the towel if aspects of your life seem to be going wrong Another New Moon on the 30th highlights money matters, suggesting financial affairs will have reached a point where you need to make firm decisions

As January begins, Sagittarius anticipates a year of personal growth and self-discovery This period offers a powerful opportunity to confront and overcome inner struggles, strengthening and empowering you February’s Full Moon on the 12th sparks shifts in academic interests, travel, or your spiritual journey pushing you to broaden your horizons

March’s energies support a balance between ambition and creativity, urging you to approach dreams pragmatically This period invites you

to be bold, pursue passions with confidence, and turn your aspirations into reality Embrace the journey

CAPRICORN

(December 22-January 20)

Protecting your privacy will be a priority Some time spent alone will enable you to recharge your emotional and spiritual batteries in readiness for whatever the rest of the month might bring Keeping a sense of humour has its benefits Your hard working efforts will be rewarded by the New Moon on the 30th as you venture on a new path of personal discovery January’s New Moon on the 29th acts as a powerful reset, urging you to clarify your desires and have faith in your ability to shape your future This lunar event encourages renewal and prompts you to redefine your aims for the year, discarding unhelpful habits and fostering growth

February encourages Capricorn to embrace personal evolution with confidence, recognising the journey as vital to reaching your goals

March inspires you to let go of outdated patterns, and trust the journey toward selfdiscovery Embrace new perspectives and nurture close relationships

AQUARIUS (January 21-February19)

Your popularity is at an all-time high and a new friendship will have a transformative effect on your life on the Getting involved in a community or political organisation will thrust you into the limelight on the 13th It will be out with the old and in with the new on the 30th as the New Moon sets your sights on fresh goals you would really like to see accomplished This will mean cutting ties with the past January signifies a period of transformation, self-expression, and alignment with your authentic self, supported by powerful cosmic energy

February is a reflective and transformative month for Aquarius With the Sun in your 12th house, you’re encouraged to pause, and confront any lingering fears or outdated mindsets

Embrace adaptability, as March supports your journey toward your ultimate life purpose Trust the process and remember that the universe is guiding you toward your destiny

PISCES (February 20-March 20)

Being of service to others will give you a sense of purpose A fun fes event brings you into contact with people who share your creative ambitions If an agreement over a family matter can’t be reached by the Full Moo on the 15th it might be time to scrap the idea altogether

January brings opportunities for spiritual growth and healing Focus on forgiveness and let go of past issues with grace Allow your inner wisdom to guide you through this transformative phase

February encourages you to explore your subconscious, heal past wounds, and embrace your unique talents The New Moon on the 27th presents a powerful opportunity for fresh starts March brings fresh perspectives on wealth This is a tim proactive financial planning

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But publishing newspapers is a hugely costly business – especially for a small charity like ours

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Thank you

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Tel 0151 230 0307

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