Life! by Blackpool Gazette

life! Saturday, January 31, 2009

The Gazette

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MURDER MOST FOUL TV stars in whodunnit at The Grand

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INTERVIEW: Page 5

FAMILIES: Pages 8/9

WHAT’S ON: Pages 18/19

PLUS: Your complete seven-day TV & radio listings

SEVENDAYS In the Ripper’s footsteps

Your complete guide the week’s televis to ion

he last time we Penry-Jones, saw Rupert he was starring in the BBC’s lavish but lacklustre adaptation Buchan’s The of John 39 Christmas period.Steps during the With a bit of luck, (ITV1, Monday,Whitechapel 9pm) will be whole lot better a than that. It’s certainly a promising drama, the London district set made notorious in Jack the Ripper by seems a killer in the 19th century. It is 120 years after on the loose again, the original murderer stalked the streets. A series of violent deaths have occurred in Whitechapel once more, and the culprit Victorian killingshas recreated the in chilling detail. Even 21st-century detective work, which includes CCTV, doesn’t using DNA testing and help three very investigators get different to the bottom case. of the Joseph Chandler (Penry-Jones) fast-tracked, media is savvy DI on a first big murder case; Ray Miles his Davis) is a front-line, (Phil hard-bitten nearing retirement, DS and Edward Buchan (Steve expert on mythsPemberton) is the unexplained or and legends behind violent deaths. the trio work together But can to crack the case? “The first thing script – a real that hit me was the page turner,” says Penry-Jones. “I was totally gripped this modern telling of the Jack the by Ripper story.”

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THEMOVIES

REVOLUTIONARY ROAD (15)

Kate Winslet’s got the Golden Globe, she’s got her Titanic leading man Leonardo DiCaprio back in her on-screen arms and she’s got her husband Sam Mendes producing so what could possibly go wrong? It’s 1955 and young marrieds the Wheelers, Frank (DiCaprio) and April (Winslet) settle into the stultifying world of suburbia but still dream of reclaiming lives as free spirits. However, their neighbours react to their getaway plan as a threat to world order. So will they break away or apart? Rating: Long unwinding road

View all the latest movie trailers at www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk

FROST/NIXON (15)

Oscar-winning director Ron Howard adapts Peter Morgan’s electrifying battle between Richard Nixon, the disgraced US president and David Frost, then out to make his name in the untold story of the1977 encounter that changed both of them. Reprising their roles from Morgan’s stageplay are Frank Langella, who won a Tony as Nixon, and Michael Sheen, who fully inhabited the part of Frost onstage in London and New York. This re-creates the interview and the weeks of behind-the-scenes manoeuvring between the men as negotiations were struck and deals were made. Rating: Wordygate

NICK AND NORAH’S INFINITE PLAYLIST (12A)

Recently heartbroken Nick (Arrested Deveopment’s puppy faced Michael Vera) is still pining for his exgirlfriend (Alexis Dziena) and remains oblivious to the candle that Norah (Kat Denning) holds for him, chiefly because she loves his mix CDs. During a long night chasing around Manhattan for a secret gig, Nick and Norah are thrown together. Go for the soundtrack and not for the plot and there might be something there. It’s Zack and Miri meets Superbad but flimsier than even them. Rating: Infinity and beyond

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE (15)

THE WRESTLER (15)

Director Danny Boyle is back on top form and tipped to be back in the Oscar chase with a vivid, moving and exciting mingling of fable, travelogue and social commentary. Skins’ Dev Patel stars as Jamal, an orphan from the slums who has made it to the last question in the subcontinent’s version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. Convinced that he has been cheating, game show host Prem Kumar (Anil Kapoor) goes to painful lengths to prove Jamal is a fake. Rating: Pure delight

In the comeback corner it’s Mickey Rourke as an 80s professional wrestling star. Now, 20 years later, he ekes out a living performing for handfuls of diehard wrestling fans in high school gyms and community centres around New Jersey. Estranged from his daughter and unable to sustain any real relationships, Randy lives for the thrill of the show. But when a heart attack forces him into retirement his sense of identity starts to slip away and he has to choose – the ring or reality, what’s it going to be? Rating: Almost knockout

MILK (15)

DEFIANCE (15)

VALKYRIE (12A)

UNDERWORLD 3: RISE OF THE LYCANS (15)

The name’s Bielski....Tuvia Bielski. James Bond actor Daniel Craig rings the changes again, this time emerging as one of three Jewish brothers hiding from the Nazis in the woods of Belarus. It’s a sort of Robin Hood with machine guns as the trio recruit a band of like minded refugees using guerrilla tactics against the occupying army. Last Samurai director Edward Zwick tackles the true story earnestly to dispel the stereotypical image of Holocaust victims – though with a little too much gung ho considering recent world events. Rating: Stirred not shaken

The Nazis are the new rock and roll – and it’s a dangerous game for Hollywood to play. German generals hatch a plan to assassinate Adolf Hitler and render the German war machine impotent. Tom Cruise stars as Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, the real-life mastermind behind the plot known as Project Valkyrie. His loyalty has been tested after losing an eye, hand and three fingers in an Allied bombing and he joins the resistance movement for the chance to change history. Rating: Reich or wrong?

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Sean Penn rolls out his Oscar intentions. It’s 1972 in San Francisco and the newly out New Yorker Harvey Milk is determined to turn his new home on Castro Street into a gay friendly refuge. As Milk fights overwhelming odds to be elected – and thus become the first openly gay man voted into Californina public office – he realises that his local problem has assumed national significance. Penn dusts off his recent quiet spell to command almost every scene, capturing both the public face and private pain of a man with a mission. Rating: Cream of the crop

This prequel delves into the origins of theblood feud between the aristocratic vampires (Death Dealers) and the barbaric Lycans (werewolves). A young Lycan, Lucian (Michael Sheen - a far cry from his role in Frost/Nixon) emerges as a powerful leader who rallies the werewolves to rise against Viktor (Bill Nighy), the cruel vampire king who has persecuted them for centuries. Lucian is joined by his over, the beautiful vampire Sonja (Rhona Mitra), in a battle to free the Lycans. Rating: Rise and fall

STARINTERVIEW

5MINUTES WITH

Jack P Shepherd

British actress Kate Winslet talks about working with her husband Sam Mendes – and why motherhood is the greatest role she’s taken on

ack P Shepherd was born in West Yorkshire in 1988. He has been acting since the age of 11 and won the part of David Platt in Coronation Street in 2000. He has gone on to become one of the serial’s key characters, and picked up the Villain of the Year gong at the 2008 Soap Awards.

ate Winslet can’t seem to win. After waiting for a major acting award for 12 years, two come at once, but she still gets it in the neck for her over-emotional acceptance speech. After her double Golden Globe victory, reports of “weeping Winslet” were rife, telling how she was assisted onto stage, repeatedly apologised and urged herself to “gather” and forgot Angelina Jolie in the list of her Best Actress rivals. But even Kate agrees she will have to try better when she attends the Bafta Awards on Sunday, February 8. “Clearly, I should prepare a speech because I didn’t think that was going to happen at the Golden Globes,’’ she admits. Kate won the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress gongs for her performances in Revolutionary Road and her portrayal of a former SS guard in The Reader. She has also been nominated twice for Leading Actress at the Baftas and has now clocked up a sixth Academy Award nomination for her role in The Reader. But of all the roles the 33-year-old has taken on in the last decade, motherhood is still the greatest. “I love being a mum,’’ Kate says when we meet just before the red carpet madness that is the awards season starts. “My priorities in life have just completely shifted since I had my two children. Mia and Joe are the most important thing in my world and that’s that.’’ Even so, when she was offered parts in both Revolutionary Road and The Reader – projects that would be filmed less than six months apart – Kate found it impossible to turn them down. “I’m very aware of how rare that is as an opportunity and I can’t tell you how much I’ve learnt about acting and about myself.’’ Revolutionary Road, based on the novel by Richard Yates, is a heart-breaking portrait of a marriage in 1950s America. Despite her dreams of a career in acting, April finds herself slipping into the suburban housewife role, while her husband Frank (Leonardo DiCaprio) commutes to New York for business lunches and flirtations with secretaries. The couple’s hopes of moving to Paris to reinvigorate their marriage are shattered when April discovers she’s due to have another child. As a mother herself, Kate had to try to understand what drove April’s decisions

WINNING SMILE: Kate Winslet celebrates her Golden Globe awards

Golden girl’s role as mum

and how the era defined her as woman. “She makes choices I would never make as a mother, but what’s tragic about April is that I think if she had the chance to open herself up, to go to Paris and be more free, she would have been a very different mother as a consequence.’’ The film gave Kate the opportunity to work with her director husband Sam Mendes for the first time since they married in 2003, which she found to be both a blessing and an added pressure. “I did see other sides to Sam and that’s a great thing, to learn more about the person you’re sharing your life with.’’ The experience threw up differences in the way the pair work as individuals. Whereas Sam would go home at the end of a long day’s intense shoot and be able to just switch off, Kate would try to hold on to April and want to discuss work.

FACTFILE

■ Kate has been nominated five times for a Best Actress Oscar for roles in Little Children (2006), Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (2004), Iris (2001), Titanic (1997) and Sense And Sensibility. ■ Kate met her first husband, director Jim Threapleton, on the set of Hideous Kinky in 1998. They married in Reading and had daughter Mia Honey in October 2000, before getting divorced the following year. The pair are now friends. ■ She is arguably still best known for playing British aristocrat Rose in Titanic, who falls in love with working class American Jack, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, right, on the doomed ship.

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Rather than cause a rift between them, the film brought Kate and Sam closer together. “We walked away as a couple unscathed, you know?’’ she continues. Reading-born Kate was also reunited on set with her good friend Leonardo for the first time since Titanic broke box office records back in 1997. Having him in the role of Frank was a huge comfort, she says. “We’ve known each other since we were 20, that’s over a third of our lives, so to have that level of friendship and trust between us was really valuable and we felt physically comfortable together playing those parts. “But we also had to look after each other a lot because some days were extremely difficult.’’ Having put so much thought and effort into her performance, Kate found it hard to let go of her character when filming finished. “I really come to love and understand the characters that I play and you go through a weird period of feeling sad and letting them go,’’ she says, obviously moved. “Sometimes that takes me a week and sometimes it takes me a couple of months, just until I feel like I can realign my own thoughts again.’’ But Kate won’t have much time with her own thoughts now as the awards season carries on apace – next stop the Baftas... ■ Revolutionary Road was released at cinemas nationwide this weekend. The Reader is out now.

If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be? A lift engineer. Failing that, I’d want someone who could keep me entertained, like a magician who could do tricks until I get out of there. What is your biggest fear? Probably death. I don’t have many fears, although I wouldn’t do a bungee jump. You always hear horror stories about the ropes snapping. I’d do a parachute jump though. Do you have any superstitions? No. I walk under ladders for fun, just because people don’t do it so I think I will. I stand on all the cracks in the pavement as well – in fact, I make sure I do that. I don’t salute magpies either, what is that all about? If you could have only one song on your iPod, what would it be? Streets of Philadelphia by Bruce Springsteen, just because I’ve been listening to it a lot recently. I’m not a massive Springsteen fan, but I watched the film the other night and downloaded the song. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought, not including property or a car? A Chloe handbag for my girlfriend. It was about £800, which is a joke. I made sure I kept the receipt in case, fingers crossed, she didn’t like it, but she did. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? My mum always says ‘If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail.’ Everybody a generation older than you seems to say that. I suppose it has come in handy for learning lines – good old mum. When was the last time you cried and why? I cried watching Schindler’s List about a month ago. The only time I ever really cry is on set or watching a film. I don’t even tend to cry at funerals. What’s your indulgence? I don’t think I really have one. I used to treat myself to clothes, but then I realised they go out of fashion a lot faster than money. We’re in a credit crunch at the moment, if you hadn’t noticed, so I treat myself by paying the bills. If I ever did want to indulge myself though, I’d probably just buy a film on DVD. I seriously am that sad. How environmentally friendly are you? I’ve got four bins at my house, if you can believe that – garden waste, general waste, bottles and cans, and a paper and cardboard one. Four bins, it’s an absolute nightmare. Then it was on the news that all the recycling ends up on a dump somewhere in Africa. I was livid, I’m there all day sorting my cans from my plastic. But yes, I’m environmentally friendly. How many texts do you send in a day? Hopefully none. I hate phones and I really don’t like using them. I probably send about four a day though, all to my girlfriend. Who’s the most famous person in your mobile? I’ve got some of the Corrie cast, but I don’t know anybody else, really. I don’t go to celebrity parties or anything, and if I do there’ll just be other soap actors there. What item could you not live without? A: I’ve got a necklace I wear all the time. I lost it once, and it was a nightmare. It isn’t particularly valuable. The chain cost me about £40, I got it from a pawnbrokers when I was 14, and there’s a pendant on it that looks like a shilling, which I got in the Caribbean when I was 18.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life!

FOOD&DRINK LIQUIDNEWS

Warming drink packs a punch

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What better way to keep out the chill than with a warming drink? Myers’s Original dark rum can be used to spice up a punch, add sparkle to a cocktail or simply warm you up on a cold winter’s day. This premium Jamaican dark rum is often the rum of choice for cocktails such as the Cuba Libre (rum, coke and a squeeze of lime), due to a body and flavour not found in many other rums. To make traditional English Rum Punch, pour a bottle of dry red wine into a saucepan and heat with two cups of black tea and a quarter cup of lemon juice. Slowly stir in half a bottle of Myers’s Dark Rum and one cup of sugar, then serve warm with fresh orange slices to garnish. Serves 10 to 15 people. Visit www.thedrinksshop.com to purchase Myers’s Rum (priced at £17.79). Or for more great drinks ideas, visit www.globalbrands.co.uk

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The worst thing about giving up alcohol is the limited choice of options available in pubs. Treat yourself and your fellow detoxers at home with some refreshingly different soft drinks. Feel Good Gently Sparkling Juice Drinks are packed with fruity goodness and vitamin C – good for beating off evil hangovers or recovering from post-party flu. Feel Good Gently Sparkling White Grape & Peach is available exclusively in Sainsbury’s, while the rest of the range can be found in Tesco, Asda, Co-op, Morrisons, Wilkinsons, Booths and other stores, RRP £1.99.

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Fancy taking delivery of a box of real ale? Best of all, you don’t even have to leave the house to order it – just visit www.realalepub.co.uk and choose from its range of more than 60 real ales from some of the UK’s top microbreweries. Once ordered, the ale is delivered fresh from the brewery and will arrive “cask conditioned’’ (including sediment). It’ll need overnight undisturbed settling time before drinking, and once opened, will last up to 28 days. Delivery is free anywhere in mainland UK. It costs from just £1.44 a pint.

YOURVIEW MY RESTAURANT CHOICE Banthai in Alexandria Drive, St Annes, may be small but well worth searching out as it’s really very nice indeed with excellent food and lovely staff. Little wonder that it is always busy – Jane Chivers, Smithy Lane, Ansdell. Tell us your favourite restaurant. e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

his recipe makes for a tasty and warming winter supper dish for all the family.

INGREDIENTS

Serves 4 4 chicken breasts 2 cloves of garlic-skin on 150g/5oz shallots- cut in half 125g-4oz mixed peppers- cut into large pieces 2 carrots- peeled and sliced 200g/7oz button mushrooms 600ml/1 pint brown chicken stock 1 bay leaf sprig of fresh thyme 6 peppercorns

EATINGIN

with John McNIsh of the Big Blue Hotel, Blackpool

CHICKENFRICASEE METHOD

1. Heat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas5 2. Season the chicken, seal and colour quickly in oil.

3. Remove the chicken and place in a roasting pan with the bay leaf, peppercorns, fresh thyme and garlic cloves. 4. Sauté the vegetables together until lightly brown. Place them in with the chicken. 5. Swill out the sauté pan with chicken stock. Bring to the boil, season and add to the chicken 6. Place into the oven until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with fluffy boiled rice To start: Home amde fishcakes with rocket salad and chilli dipping sauce To finish: Raspberry Creme Brulee To drink: Dry White Sancerre To book: 0871 222 4000

FOODEXTRA

Get your day off to a tasty start WHETHER you’re a savoury or a sweet sort – or even if you prefer your breakfast in liquid form – here’s a couple of great recipes to tempt you out of bed and into the kitchen in the mornings. If you’re really lucky, someone might even bring it to you in bed!

FRUITY GRANOLA WITH RHUBARB

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Serves 6 450g jumbo porridge oats 50g flaked almonds 75g mixed seeds 1tbsp honey 200g dried fruit, e.g. sultanas, cranberries and chopped figs

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400g rhubarb, cut into 3cm pieces 2tbsp caster sugar Preheat the oven to 200C/gas mark 6. Mix together the oats, almonds, seeds and honey and place on a large baking tray. Bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool before mixing in the dried fruit. Meanwhile, place the rhubarb and sugar in a saucepan with 3tbsp water and cook for six minutes, until softened. Serve with the granola and milk or yoghurt if required (pictured). TASTY TIP: Try using different dried fruits for variation, such as mango, pineapple, apricots or prunes.

OAT TOPPED BAKED TOMATOES

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves 2 2 large beef tomatoes, halved 2tsp wholegrain mustard 4tbsp low fat cream cheese 50g jumbo porridge oats Dash Worcestershire sauce 2 wholemeal muffins, toasted Preheat the oven to 200C/gas mark 6. Place the tomatoes cut side up on a small baking tray and spread with mustard. Spoon over the cream cheese and top with the oats. Sprinkle with Worcestershire sauce and bake for 15 minutes. Serve on toasted wholemeal muffins. TASTY TIP: Try using cream cheese with garlic and herbs.

FOOD&DRINK

EATINGOUT

WINECORNER

The Mandarin@Lytham

fter what proprietor Pauline Lai described as “many months of blood, sweat and tears and rather a lot of bruises” the sister restaurant to the legendary Mandarin in Blackpool opened in Lytham in time for Christmas. But the fact that a variety of heaters were scattered around the dining room on our early New Year visit was proof enough that its winter arrival had not been without painful teething problems. Sadly even the genuine warmth of the welcome could not make up for the lack of heat in the first floor restaurant, admittedly during a cold snap which had seen temperatures plunge in freezing Fylde. The Mandarin @ Lytham is situated in the heart of Clifton Street, in upstairs premises, well remembered as the Laragosta Italian restaurant. The fact that the town centre shop premises below was an ongoing building site – with not even a front window – obviously contributed to the Chinese chill factor. Happily the restaurant’s own internal transformation has been stylishly completed. There is an attention to detail in the decor that transports diners back to 1930s Colonial Shanghai – said to be the result of travelling thousands of miles across China for authentic furnishings including ornate display cabinet, traditional mahogany and marble tables and Chinoiserie wallpaper. There’s also an eye-catching ornate spiral stair case that leads to a second dining area – ideal for parties – as well as the public toilets. Coats were cautiously removed as our table for three settled with bottles of Tiger beer to inspect the impressive menu which smacked instantly of quality rather than quantity. Among the starters were steak roll in black pepper sauce (£5.50), deep fried squid served with sweet and sour sauce (£5,50), fried soft crabs with Thai curry (£6.90) and most interesting of all, Mrs Wan’s pot stickers (£5.50) – dumpling filled with minced pork, prawns and chinese vegetables steamed and then shallow fried, served with ginger vinegar. Traditional favourites also included chicken sweet corn soup (£3.80) and the combination starter (£7.50 per person). The short cut to satisfying our hunger pangs was for two adults to opt for the top priced Mandarin Banquet (£26.00 per person) with the third choice being a chicken curry (£8.50) with a side order of chips (£2.50). As dishes are freshly made and would be approximately 15 minutes, our attentive waitress suggested a basket of prawn crackers which came with a sweet chilli and a truly lip-smacking garlic dip. Soon after the illuminated dumb waiter at the corner the bar signalled the lowering of a huge platter of starters from the kitchens above. The feast comprised of delicious barbecued spare ribs, tender chicken Satay skewers, which were good and meaty, prawn and sesame toast, Sui

FACTFILE Address: Clifton Street, Lytham Telephone: (01253) 737168 website: wwwmandaringr oup.co.uk Open: Tuesday Sundays 5pm10.30am (closed Mon) Parking: None Booking: Peak times Disabled: Own toilet, but at top of staircase Cards: Most Children: Welcome Value for money: 6/10 Life rating: 6/10

Mai – minced pork dumplings – and baby vegetable spring rolls with a pile of crispy seaweed at the centre. All were quickly demolished and the warm towels were gratefully received. One of the highlights came next – aromatic crispy duck (ordered separately £12.00 or half duck £22.00) – shredded expertly at the table. Then it was over to us, to dig in to create our own six pancakes. There are few better flavours of the Far East than duck with fine strips of spring onion and cucumber, rolled them together into a wafer thin pancake smeared with hoi sin plum sauce. The arrival of finely painted bowls and a deep dish of special fried rice (or

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vermicelli Singapore style if you prefer) meant chopsticks were soon clicking at the ready for the main courses. Hot plates were placed at the centre of the table and then laden with tender king prawns with garlic sauce, stir fried chicken with green peppers in black beans and crispy fillet of beef. First to go from a sizzling plate were the excellent prawns, before spooning out the fried rice, one of the best ever tasted – light and fluffy with plenty of choice morsels of prawn, prawns and peas – almost a meal in itself. The fried chicken had a splendid chilli bite in a rich sauce but the fiercest clash of chopsticks came over the crispy beef, cooked to perfection and tossed with sweet chilli sauce – the firm favourite. Across the table the chicken curry – which according to the menu boasts 14 spices, including a combination of Indian and Malaysian curry powders – was described as excellent. A nice touch to finish was a palatecleaning fresh fruit platter – a selection of fresh kiwi fruit, melon and oranges, followed by more warm towels. The Mandarin has built up an enviable reputation since it was first opened by Michael Wan in Cookson Street, Blackpool in 1961. Pauline Lai took over the mantle in 2005 when Michael retired and has now launched her bold Lytham venture, where all the favourite Mandarin dishes are to be found, joined by a host of new additions. The restaurant also offers a selection of fine wines from around the world. The total bill for the three people, came to £83.50 – £17 of which was for four bottles of Tiger beer and a diet coke.

Steve Singleton

by Jacqueline Morley

heck out CVNE, Compania Vinicola del Norte de Espana (the Northern Spanish Wine Co), set up in 1879 and still going strong 130 years later. If you want to rioja round the clock at the birthday party in March, the fifth generation family Real de Asua, can offer some cracking brands to celebrate, from the marvellous Monopole, Cune and Imperial wines from the original winery in Haro, in Rioja Alta, to Vina Real and the single estate Contino wines in the ultra modern winery in Rioja Alavesa. You can bag Cune Rosado ’07 from Majestic and everywine.co.uk, just £6.99 for a light raspberry pink, big on summer fruit, with berry aromas and floral notes, from a heady concentration of Tempranillo. The Cune Crianza ’05, £7.49 Booths, Majestic and everywine, has a balsamic note, from ageing in wood – bright cherry colour, violet nuances, elegant, spicy and mouth filling, one to linger over. If you want to try something rather special sample the Imperial Reserva ’01, £16.99 from Majestic and everywine, an intensely aromatic ruby red, all autumn fruit, toast and a touch of Bourbon. And if the recession is but a blip in your budget, Contino Vina del Olivo ’05 is £44.99 (shop around, limited availability) but won the Decanter 2008 Trophy for Red Rioja over £10, a deep, almost black, purple, which smells like a day’s blackberrying, and tastes divinely damson. CREDIT CRUNCHERS: Tesco starts a new round of half price offers on Monday and if you like Australian wine we suggest you take your swag bag and buy three of Hardy’s Crest more girly, or “sharey” options, ideal for Valentine’s Day. The Rose is £4.99 until March 4, the Sparkling Brut and Sparkling £5.99 until February 24. You can also get Yaldara Shiraz, ideal for an heftier offering, and Chardonnay, at £4.99 from Wednesday until Feb 24. Excellent value, the lot. Also check out Somerfield for another fizz which won’t break the bank, Banrock Station Reserve Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir is just £4.49. WHAT’S NEW: The 2008 vintage of Château Pontet Bagatelle Rose En Primeur (a young wine sold before it is bottled), which made such a stunning debut last year, will be available in April from innovative online wine retailers www.fromvineyardsdirect.com. Demand is such that orders are limited to five cases per customer, nice if you’ve got £89 to spare for 12 bottles, but one’s just £7.45. This is one of the best, for the price, rosés, to come out of Provence, for years.

TOP TIPPLE

Windy Peak is a wonderful name for a breezy little red which blows all the cobwebs away, after all the overindulgence of recent times. It’s Oz, naturally, from De Bortoli’s Dixon Creek winery, in Victoria, a 2008 Pinot Noir which is cherry ripe, soft, and pretty luscious. Not bad for 7.99 from Sainsbury’s.

Don’t forget to send your booze news, clubs, favourite finds, swigs and tips to jacqui.morley@blackpoolgazette. co.uk

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life!

FAMILIES TRIPTIPS

For your week ahead

A major new exhibition opens at The ● Imperial War Museum North in Manchester (above) next Saturday. Women War

Artists can be in the Special Exhibitions Gallery until April 19. Focusing on the experiences and works of women war artists from the First World War to the Kosovo conflict, this major art exhibition brings together work from Imperial War Museum’s outstanding art collection for the first time in 50 years and recent acquisitions never before on public display. Together with personal reflections from the artists, this exhibition provides an insight into how war shaped their lives and work. It explores artists’ responses to conflict, as eyewitnesses, participants, commentators and as commissioned observers, and illuminates both the constraints and possibilities offered to female artists in war time. Visit Tatton Park on Thursday and you can take a walk in a winter wonderland guided by one of the experienced ranges – and have the opportunity to not only get close to the deer herd, but feed them as well. For more information visit www.tattonpark.org.uk Tour the scent bottle collection at Preston’s Harris Museum on Tuesday. Mrs French’s bottle collection is among the largest in the world and the tour will include information about the history of perfume. Meet in the ceramics and glass gallery on the first floor at 1pm. Enjoy a guided tour of historic Hoghton Tower tomorrow, from 11am-2pm. The visit commences with a welcoming glass of mulled wine followed by a tour of the manor house. The Viao tearoom will be serving a choice of hot snacks and traditional Sunday roast and the ‘Stables in the Courtyard’ shop will be open.

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FREEFUN

Exotic orchids, wildflowers from across the ● world and stunning garden designs will see the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew

Gardens bursting with colour for its 250th anniversary in 2009. They will celebrate Kew's role as a world-leader in plant science and conservation, and give visitors a glimpse into the role botanic gardens play in the planet’s future. The first event will be Tropical Extravaganza, starting next Saturday until March 8. The Princess of Wales conservatory will be brimming with exotic plants such as orchids, bromeliads and anthuriums.

Beaver power M

artin Mere is the only attraction in the North West to give the chance to watch beavers in their natural habitat. The centre is home to Twiggy and Woody and their baby beaver Wizzy who is the first ever to be hand reared in the UK after being nursed back to health when being found injured last summer. Visitors to Martin Mere in Burscough will be able to see the young beaver via a live camera link to his enclosure and hear the story of his remarkable recovery. Beavers, the world’s second largest rodent, are one of nature’s engineers, excavating canals and building dams and lodges of branch and earth. Visitors can see the beavers as they are fed every day on root vegetables, leaves and fruit. Life! has teamed up with Martin Mere to give one winner the chance to go into the beaver enclosure and to see the work they have achieved since they were released in July 2007. See the lodge and tunnels they have built, talk to the warden about how the enclosure has developed and find out more about Wizzy, the baby beaver. Martin Mere centre manager Andy Wooldridge, said: “Finding baby beaver was a real surprise for us and is a credit to

DAYOUT

our aviculture staff that they have nursed him back to health. “He is quite a character as he loves his food, especially sweetcorn and sweet potato, and enjoys playing with his cuddly beaver toys by snuggling up to them and taking them into the pond.” Our winner will receive a family pass for Martin Mere and will be able to take one other member of the party with them into the beaver enclosure. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is home to more than 100 species of rare duck, geese, swans and flamingos. The centre is a great day out for all the family. Visitors can see, feed and learn about wetland birds and the beavers. During the winter, migrating species such as pink-footed geese and whooper swans visit the spacious park while early summer heralds the appearance of fluffy ducklings and downy goslings. Inquisitive Hawaiian Geese will nibble grain from the hands of visitors who can tour the wetlands through the carefully planned pathways.

In contrast, watch from the comfort of 10 lookout hides, internationally important numbers of birds gathering in the winter to form spectacular feeding flocks. There is also a licensed cafeteria, children’s play area and shops. The centre also has excellent disabled access. Ticket prices are: Family £23.50, adult £8.50, concession (over 65, full-time students and disabled adults) £6.50 and child (4-16) £4.30. Children under four and carers are free. The WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is open daily 9.30am until 5.30pm (5pm November-February). It is in Fish Lane, Burscough, off the A59. It is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. Telephone 01704 892343, email info@martinmere@wwt.org.uk or log on to www.wwt.org.uk/visit/martinmere.

WIN, WIN, WIN

For your chance to win a great family day out, just answer this easy question: What is the name of the baby beaver? Send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to: Martin Mere competition, Life! magazine, The Gazette, PO Box 55, South Shore, Blackpool, FY4 2 GF. Closing date Friday, February 6. Winners will be picked from postal entries.

YOURVIEW

Bargain deals on Lakeland activities

The Lake District. My favourite areas are Windermere, Grasmere and Keswick – they’re such a contrast to the Fylde. I love the hills, the trees and, of course, the lakes – Pat Wilson, 77, who lives in St Annes Let us have your top day out destination. e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

FANCY trying some outdoor pursuits in the Lake District? Cumbria Tourism has teamed up with some of the county’s outdoor activity providers to offer a bumper week of cut-price activities over the February half term. Activities Week has something for everyone and is part of Cumbria Tourism’s ongoing campaign to become Adventure Capital of the UK by 2012. The week will run from February 16-20 and

MY FAVOURITE DAY OUT

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will offer a vast range of adventures including abseiling, canoeing, gorge scrambling, hill walking and rock climbing with instructors for half day sessions. Half days of abseiling, canoeing, gorge scrambling and rock climbing will be priced at £20 per person. Guided hill walking costs £20 per person for a full day session and £15 per person for a half day. Andrea Runkee, Adventure Capital Project Manager for Cumbria Tourism, said: “We

look forward to welcoming everyone from complete beginners to outdoor enthusiasts who just fancy trying something new. It’s a good opportunity to show off Cumbria’s wide range of activities.” Activities Week sessions can all be booked by calling Destination Cumbria on 01539 736006 or visiting their website www.destinationcumbria.co.uk. The new Adventure section of golakes can be found at www.golakes.co.uk/adventure.

Wedgewood hits 250-year milestone WEDGEWOOD is one of the latest British institutions to have been hit by the global financial crisis in the same year the company reaches its 250th milestone. A taskforce, chaired by the City of Stokeon-Trent elected mayor Mark Meredith, has been set-up to help; and a buyer is currently being sought for the Stoke-onTrent based company. In the meantime, the new £10m Wedgwood Museum, opened at the end of 2008, will not be affected by the situation, and remains open to the public. The award-winning Wedgwood Visitor

Centre, and factory shop, are currently open and trading as usual. Events to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the company are presently under review. Josiah Wedgwood himself was described as the 'Father of English Potters'. His achievements in the 18th century were remarkable. A master potter, he was also an inventor, and a pioneer canal builder; and he helped to shape an area of Britain which is now affectionately known world-wide as The Potteries. The Wedgwood Museum at Barlaston,

tells the full story of the man and his business. The museum includes 8,000 strong historic ceramics collection, more than 75,000 manuscripts and items of correspondence, plus a fine art collection including works by Stubbs and Reynolds, dating from the 18th century to present day. The museum is open weekdays 9am 5pm and weekends 10am-5pm. Prices: Adult £6.00, Concession £5.00, Group Concession £4.50 See www.wedgwoodmuseum.org.uk or contact 01782 371900.

FAMILIES

SAFE START: Tougher standards for baby walkers have come into force across Europe. The frames on wheels that help tots walk before they can stand must now pass stricter stability tests, following evidence that they pose a serious safety threat. The UK’s Child Accident Prevention Trust estimates that more children are injured by baby walkers than by any other nursery product - more than 2,350 babies were taken to hospitals for treatment for injuries linked to “baby walker incidents’’ in 2002. The main risk is from tipping over, and the new standards involve curbing a child’s ability to reach for potentially dangerous items as they move around, and making design changes to reduce the danger of tumbling down stairs, or falling uneven floors or carpet edges.

PLAYTIME

Lambskin keeps babies happy

Snowdrop time

OGS, prams and cameras at the ready.... for the highly popular annual Lytham Hall snowdrop walks. The hope will be be for bright sunshine as families prepare for a brisk winter’s day walk through the historic grounds on Sunday, the first in the annual series of Snowdrop Walks. There will also be snowdrop walks on the next three successive Sundays, February 8,15 and 22. Gates open 10.30am until 3pm. Tickets cost £2 per adult and 50p per child. Several thousands visitors take the opportunity to explore the picturesque grounds each year. The winding private road from the impressive Ballam Road gateway leads to the hall, ancestral home of the Clifton family, squires of Lytham, who played an influential role in the development of both Lytham and St Annes.

DAYOUT

It’s a rare chance to get up close to the present Georgian hall, designed by eminent architect John Carr of York and completed in 1764. At this time of year the snowdrops literally carpet the picturesque grounds and provide some stunning vistas. ● VisitScotland is also launching their own Scottish Snowdrop Festival in a blaze of white. Visitors are invited to blow away the cobwebs by visiting 46 gardens across the country, some of which open exclusively for the event between February 1 and March 16. Participating gardens include Dumfries

YOURVIEW e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

House, Ayrshire. Newly saved for the nation by Prince Charles, this 18th century Palladian mansion was designed by architect brothers John and Robert Adam. The house is set within 2,000 acres of scenic Ayrshire countryside. There is also Castle Kennedy and Gardens, Dumfries and Galloway, where you can enjoy woodland and loch-side walks or a car safari amongst the enchanting carpets of snowdrops and early spring flowers. Set amidst one of Scotland’s oldest gardens, including a ruined castle, walled garden and tearoom. The festival is part of VisitScotland’s Winter White campaign which showcases opportunities for visitors to make the most of the season. These, along with accommodation deals, are listed on www.visitscotland.com/white.

LAMBSKINS are an ideal all-year solution for keeping babies and young children comfy in the pram, cot or playpen. In cold weather, lambskin wool fibres keep baby warm and cosy; in the heat, the wool absorbs moisture, releasing it into the atmosphere and helping keep baby cool and dry. Their comfort also helps babies relax, and aids sleep. Now a new long-haired lambskin baby rug has been added to the award-winning luxury range from Gabe & Grace. The rug, available in independent retailers, follows the success of their pram liners. Gabe & Grace lambskins are free of chemicals and are sterilised for safe baby skin to lambskin contact. They are cut from one skin and not sewn together from offcuts, so their fibres are uniform across the whole surface. And, because they use only lamb skins, the wool is very soft and fluffy, compared with the more “wiry” sheepskins. The mats, car seat/ pramliners, footmuffs, and lambskin baby booties, start from £17.99 call 0845 388 0948 for stockists. KIDS’ STUFF: There is online help for youngsters with problems. There4me (www.there4me.com) aims to help children aged between 12-16 years with problems ranging from abuse and bullying to exams, drugs and self-harm. The confidential NSPCC service includes message boards and an agony aunt, information about specific problems and the chance to talk confidentially with a counsellor online.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life!

OUTDOORS WEEKEND CHORES ■ Complete the pruning of greenhouse vines while they are still dormant and remove loose bark which may harbour pests. ■ Bring in pots of forced bulbs for indoor flowering when ready. ■ Protect winter-flowering bulbous irises in the garden from severe cold or damp. :: Start forcing pots of lily bulbs for Easter and early summer flowering. ■ As cyclamen flowers go over, remove the stems by giving a sharp tug, which should remove the whole stem. ■ Take hardwood cuttings of blackcurrants, redcurrants, white currants and gooseberries. ■ Renew grease bands around fruit trees, if they have been in place a long time, to protect trees against winter moths. ■ Pick yellowing leaves off Brussels sprouts and other brassicas promptly, to prevent spread of grey mould and brassica downy mildew. ■ Bring container-grown shrubs like camellias into a cold greenhouse for extra winter protection. ■ Sow seed of slow-maturing half-hardy summer bedding plants including pelargoniums, begonias and verbenas, in heated propagators.

THREEWAYS TO...

Mix heathers and conifers 1. Don’t let the heathers grow into the conifers as the foliage of both will turn brown. 2. Place mixed beds of these plants in an open situation in full sun with well-drained soil which is moisture-retentive and acidic. 3. Mix flat-growing conifers with heather throughout the bed to provide winter foliage colour and dot more upright conifers through the planting to add shape and texture.

The border guard

f you are looking to put new borders in your garden this year but know that you’re not going to have much time on maintenance, planting an easy-care shrub border may be the answer. Shrubs require little upkeep once they are in the ground as long as in the first season they are watered sufficiently to keep the soil damp in dry weather. Loose mulches should be topped up from time to time, while evergreens and summer flowering shrubs can be pruned in early spring if necessary. Spring-flowering shrubs should be tidied up immediately after flowering. Shrubs offering interest over two seasons are particularly useful, such as Mahonia x media, which has yellow winter flowers and architectural, evergreen foliage, and Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’, with purple leaves that turn red in autumn. Shrubs are certainly not as boring as they may sound. When choosing shrubs, make sure they are not going to block any view, but use them instead to frame it. When you decide on a shape for your new border, use a hosepipe to make the shape, then you can modify the curves until you are happy with it. Before planting, dig over the soil, remove weeds and add some well-rotted manure to improve the soil, adding some grit if you have heavy soil. Position shrubs, still in their pots, so that you can stand back and view the effects from different angles. Each shrub should be planted through mulch matting at the same depth as it is in the pot, or cover the soil between shrubs with a 5cm (2in) thick loose organic mulch to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from invading. Go for shrubs which will give you all-round interest – evergreens are probably the easiest. Combine Ceanothus thrysilforus var. repens with Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold’, Hebe rakaiensis, Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ and Lonicera nitida ‘Baggesen’s Gold’. The red photinia leaves and blue ceanothus flowers will provide interesting spring colour, while the hebe has white flowers in summer. Introduce shrubs which offer all-year foliage, such as the spotted Aucuba japonica or a variegated euonymus, and replace beds of annuals with shrubs to reduce the amount of time you need to dig up and change plants. Good, compact, low-maintenance shrubs with a long flowering season include potentilla, hebes, low-growing cistus or patio roses. Under taller shrubs and roses plant good ground cover perennials such as wild geranium

INTHEGARDEN (cranesbill) or Alchemilla mollis, and take note of the atmosphere you want to create through colour. Hot colours, such as reds and oranges, will bring warmth, while greys and blues will cool down a hot spot. If you don’t want to replant or create a totally new border, buy some specimen plants to act as focal points in your existing garden, such as Phormium tenax, with its sword-shaped leaves, or Fatsia japonica, which provides sculptural foliage in a shady spot, callicarpa or cotoneaster for colourful berries and Acer palmatum for a burst of autumn colour. You should soon be able to sit back and watch your garden burst into life with new colour and texture – without breaking your back in the process.

BESTOFTHEBUNCH

DIARYDATES Attention all garden clubs and societies. Send your 2009 programmes to to life! magazine, The Gazette, Avroe Crescent, Blackpool, FY4 4AU or e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

Tuesday, February 10 Carleton Garden Club. Tony Bracegirdle “Roses”. Carleton Scout Hall, Poulton Road, Carleton, 7.30pm. Thursday, February 12 Kirkham and District Horticultural Society. Bill Poole. Bees and Beekeeping with Wild Flowers, Kirkham Grammar School (6th Form Lounge), Ribby Road, Kirkham, 7.30pm. Thornton Cleveleys Horticultural

EASY CARE: Shrubs give garden borders new interest

Society. Keith & Chris Buxton “Borneo - the Land Beneath the Clouds”. Thornton Little Theatre, Four Lane Ends, Thornton, 7.30pm. Saturday, February 14 The Alpine Garden Society Southport Group. John Good, Climate Change Impacts on Alpines. Emmanuel Church Hall, Cambridge Road, Southport, 2pm.

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with Hannah Stephenson

DASH OF COLOUR: The shrub ‘Royal Purple’

Galanthus (snowdrop) THEY are the first bulbs to emerge which provide the curtain-raiser for the gardening year, from January onwards, and with snowdrop weekends and other events happening across the country over the next month, it’s impossible to ignore them. Their dainty white and green bell-shaped blooms hang on 6in stems and look wonderful in drifts in woodlands, as a carpet in dappled shade under trees or as a welcome addition to rockeries and scree beds. There are many types of snowdrop but the most common is G. nivalis,

producing single flowers. A more showy derivative is ‘Flore Pleno’, which has larger, double flowers and is slightly shorter than the single variety. If you want a really early-flowering type go for G. elwesii, which has broad, grey-green leaves and larger flowers and can flower before Christmas. Snowdrops should be planted in early autumn in a moist soil rich in organic matter, in semi shade. Plant in groups of 10 or more and add to them each year. ■ Lytham Hall snowdrop walk: Page 8.

OUTDOORS

THEWALK

o one has a hard word to say about Chipping and you won’t find one here. It attracts epithets such as “charming”, “delightful” and “lovely” – all deserved. And of course it “nestles” below the Bowland Fells in “charming, delightful and lovely countryside”! This walk, from the village, will take you through some of that countryside and its wonderful variety – parkland, farmland, woodland and moorland. You will be enchanted – guaranteed!

WALKONTHE WYRESIDE

WALK

Chipping to Higher Greystonely. 4k, 2½ miles From the car park walk past the church on your left and continue down Talbot Street to the war memorial. Here turn left into the lane. A little further on take a concessionary path on the left that keeps you off the road. At the entrance to Leagram Hall turn left onto the drive. Continue along the drive with an enclosed wood on your left. After 300m near a distinctive oak tree tunnelled at its base, turn sharp right to aim for a pair of gates and stile across the parkland. Cross the stile and with a fence on left follow the path that leads past a plantation on left. Ahead you will have an impressive view of Pendle Hill. Keep on this path eventually arriving at a footbridge. Cross it and climb up to a double stile beyond scattered woodland. Before you is a limestone outcrop called Knot Hill. Follow the footpath as it skirts the base of the knoll on its left side. Pass a quarry and then a lime kiln to reach a tarmac farm track. Turn left and follow the track to the farmstead of Lower Greystonely. Keep ahead, through a gate, as the now stony track descends in woodland and crosses a brook by ford or footbridge. The track leads on to Higher Greystonely. Follow it through the buildings onto the lane. Turn left and in 250 metres arrive at a junction near a phone box.

with countryside officer Len Blacow

Charms of fell country SCENIC: Pendle Hill as seen from the moorland of Stanley

Higher Greystonely to Chipping 5k, 3 miles At the junction turn left into a farm lane that leads to Lickhurst Farm some 800 metres further on. (12-15mins). On reaching the main yard keep right. Ignoring a way marked footpath on your left, keep ahead through a metal gate onto access land and a rough moorland track. This area of moorland is given the rather prosaic name of Stanley on the map. Since this is the highest part of the route, views soon become extensive. Before you the south west flank of the Bowland Fells; behind the Ribble Valley and mighty Pendle Hill. Keep on the main track as it turns to the left 10 minutes after leaving the farm. After crossing a stream by stepping stones, arrive at the tarmac lane below Burnslack in a further 15 minutes. On reaching the lane, look for a footpath almost immediately on the left across a stile. Traverse a stretch of rough pasture aiming to the right of a hillock then cross a wire fence by another stile. On reaching the wall of the next field turn right. Now views open out towards Preston and even Southport on the coast. With the wall on your left follow path down through a

FACTFILE

number of fields 750m (10mins) to Windy Hill Farm. Turn right between buildings then immediately left onto a footpath through a gate. Descend through the pasture, which can be very boggy, to cross a footbridge. Passing through broken woodland a distinct path soon leads to the open side of the valley. Ahead the top of a telegraph pole will come into view. Aim for this. Cross a very large field to reach a stile in its left corner. With a hedge on the left follow the path through three fields down to

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Start: Chipping village car park close to the church. From M6 Junction 31a, follow signs for Longridge B 6243. At Longridge keep ahead on B6244. From this point follow signs for Chipping. Summary: Distance: 9k, 5½ m Time: 2½ – 3½ hours Terrain: Moderate; mainly across pastures and along farm tracks. Muddy in places. Suitable footwear and waterproofs recommended. Map: OS OL41 Forest of Bowland a lane, (close to an imposing white house.) On reaching lane turn left and follow it through the chair works yard and down to the charming, delightful and lovely village. ● Walk by John Griffiths and Bob Clare. Hit www.lancashirewalks.com for more walks exploring the diversity of the Lancashire countryside.

lthough it’s still cold out there, we’ve seen tell-tale signs in Wyre that spring is on its way. Already, the days are an hour longer than they were at the turn of the year. On a recent walk, we saw the fresh green leaves of several plants that will be in flower in early spring. Stalks of cow parsley are already six inches tall in sheltered hedgerows, snowdrops have been in flower since mid-month and blue tits have started to inspect nest boxes. The very high tides of mid-month revealed a usually hidden population of birds in the Wyre Estuary, much to our delight. As the saltmarshes were completely flooded, parties of snipe stood on the last fragments of vegetation until forced to take off in their zigzag flight and croaking their rasping calls. Last month I asked you to walk the Wyre Way and discover our wonderful coast and countryside. If you didn’t get the chance to don your walking boots in January, don’t worry, as February is the perfect time to wrap up warm and get out in the fresh air. And there are plenty of “winter warmers” out there this month for you to enjoy. Think walking is boring? Think again. Tomorrow, join the Rangers for a short “Goose Roost” walk along Morecambe Bay before watching the flocks of pink-footed geese fly out over the sands. On Sunday February 8 join in our “Winter at Brock” walk where we will explore the Brock Valley and the edge of Bowland. On Friday February 13, stretch your legs and your mind with our circular walk looking at the history of Knott End. Enjoy a Valentine’s Day with a difference at Wyre Estuary Country Park on Saturday February14 and take your love to a new direction by learning all about orienteering. Family fun is guaranteed at the Fleetwood Lantern Walk on Saturday February 21 where creative youngsters get the chance to make their own lantern at the Marine Hall before using it to guide them on a special early evening walk along the Promenade. Still think walking is boring? One of our regulars has just celebrated completing a staggering 103 walks in 2008. He says walking is the best feeling in the world – what a better testament to the benefits of walking? And if you need even more proof to get you going, walking enthusiasts everywhere are gearing up for the popular Garstang Walking Festival which runs from May 9-17 nd attract hundreds of people to enjoy springtime in the North West’s best kept secret – our stunning countryside Hailed as a real celebration of the great outdoors, this popular event offers week long walking and family fun and you’re invited to join in the fun. For full details of all walks and activities in February ring 01995 602125 to book your place. Some walks have a small charge.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life! 11

HEALTH&BEAUTY SHAPINGUP

Emma Harris, Gazette health writer and qualified gym instructor, with her weekly look at staying healthy THE BIG QUESTION I take part in BodyPUMP classes and they have recently started doing something called a front squat. Can you tell me a bit about this and what its benefits are? The front squat has a number of benefits, generally aimed at working slightly different muscles and improving technique. It teaches you to keep correct torso position during normal squats, because the front squat means you have to keep your chest lifted. The barbell – either with or without a weight on each end (and if you are having a weight, keep it very light, between 1 and 5kg) – sits on the front of your shoulders, rather than the meaty part of your back. The normal rules for squats apply – weight pushes through the heels, feet about shoulder width apart, toes slightly turned up, abs tight, knees track in line with second and third toes, chest up, keep the bar level. But because the bar is on the front of your shoulders, you can’t drop your chest. Get the front squat wrong and the bar drops. It’s great for targeting the quads (the front of the thighs) and also the abdominals. To get the bar in the right place, stand in your set position for squats as described above. Place the bar across the front of your shoulders, hold your arms straight out in front, like a zombie, with the palms down. Cross your arms so your fingertips rest lightly on the bar to make sure it stays put – elbows high, in line with shoulders. When performing the front squat focus on three things: squeeze your shoulder blades back and down, keep your elbows in line with your shoulders so the bar stays up and your chest stays lifted, and really try to draw your belly button in towards your spine to look after your lower back.

BPM BURN

If you enjoy a good workout, you know the importance of good music to get you going. But new research has found that listening to the right tracks could get you fitter. Experts say that by matching a song’s tempo, or beats per minute, to your heartbeat, exercise productivity is boosted by 20 per cent.

VEGAN WARNING

Vegans have been warned that they could be missing out on vitamin B12 because of their diet, which involves cutting out all dairy products. Experts recommend that they should eat plenty of foods like breakfast cereals, which are often fortified with the vitamin A. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to pernicious anaemia, inflammation of the nerves and dementia.

BODY BEAUTIFUL: Cosmetic surgery is becoming more popular, but there are ways to avoid the needle

Sidestep surgery

e all have something that makes us cringe and curse when we look in the mirror. Millions of Brits feel their bodies could do with an extreme makeover – almost half of adults (44 per cent) would consider cosmetic surgery, according to Mintel research. But drastic surgery to fix body image woes comes with high risks and high costs – and the credit crunch is creating a dangerous market for unsafe procedures. “We are concerned that people may be tempted to ‘shop around’ for cheaper treatments, which could lead to a surge in horror stories if administered by poorly trained practitioners,’’ warns Dr John Curran, president of The British Association of Cosmetic Doctors. So before you even think about braving the surgeon’s knife or laser gun, put beauty’s non nip-tuck alternatives to the test. Eye lift: Under-eye bags, crows’ feet or droopy lids making you fret? Eyes are the windows to your soul – and your age, according to a recent Olay survey. For a non-surgical alternative try Crystal

EXPERTVIEW

SMOKERS’ SKIN

A Japanese company is developing a vending machine that counts wrinkles and skin sagging to check a smoker’s age. The face recognition technology is aimed at stopping anyone under the age of 20 from buying cigarettes.

12 life! LOGON www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk

Clear Eye Pen (inset 1), £89.50 (with 4 x 5ml refills) (Selfridges). Our tester’s verdict? “The pulsating action from the pen is painless and plumps the undereye area. I got bored using it every day but results are pretty instantaneous so it’s great for a quick and effective undereye boost.’’ Boob booster: The boob job remains the most common surgical procedure for Britons. In 2007, almost 6,500 women transformed their assets with breast reductions or enhancements. Our home tester tried the Rodial Boob Job (inset 2),

BEAUTY TIP

Lip balm is your best friend forever. Pick a lip balm with moisturising ingredients, like Shea butter and olive oil. Apply it often. – Blackpool-based beauty expert Sue Simpson Let us have your beauty tip. e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

£122.34 (rodial.co.uk) “I was pretty sceptical but I noticed a change after just a couple of weeks of use. My decolletage certainly looks plumper!’’ Lip plumper: Craving an Angelina Jolie pout? You don’t have to resort to the surgeon’s needle. Who wants to end up with a trout pout? After putting PureLogicol Instant Lip Plumper, (inset 3) £20 (0870 750 2401/purelogicol.com) to the test, 3 our verdict tester said: “Ouch. This gives your lips one hell of a tingle once it’s first applied but your reward is a pillow-like pout. ’ Skin peel: Non-invasive treatments like fillers and peels are becoming increasingly popular amongst antiagers. But due to lack of regulation it’s been dubbed a ‘buyers beware’ market. Our at-home tester tried Olay Regenerist Micro-Dermabrasion and Mini-Peel Kit, £24.99 (below). Her verdict? “After massaging a bright orange goo (which heats up) all over your face, and then a clear gel, this double action product gets to work on reviving your skin. But be prepared for a slightly red face, this is serious stuff.’’

Bargain beauties

avvy shoppers know how to find a bargain... and they don’t wait for the sales to come along. Outlet stores, sample sales, online discount companies or designer end of lines will have you dressing for less and still looking gorgeous! Royal violet: Purple is reminiscent of royalty, and this season all

women are to dress like queens. On light and dark skin tones alike, purple is the perfect addition to any wardrobe. This Designer Room dress (main picture) is rrp £46.99 but only £22.99 at Fleetwood Freeport designer outlet. Warm hands: Leather or suede gloves needn’t cost you an arm and a leg. These blue suede gloves (inset) are a snip at £9.99 from TK Maxx.

FASHION&STYLE WELL SUITED: Tough economic times have done little to slow suit sales according to Britain’s leading branded suit specialist. Moss has seen a record number of suits bought in the week prior to men going back to work after the festive break with 10,000 suits sold throughout its 120 stores nationwide as well as online. Scott Williams, senior formalwear buyer, said: “This year I predict we’re going to be selling more suits for people who work in businesses where they need to look the part to advance their careers. If it comes to two identical candidates, employers are going to opt for the one that looks smarter and more professional.” This pure wool suit by designer Pierre Cardin is a Moss bargain at £99.

GOODBUYS

Enjoy window shopping with life! in our weekly guide to tempting offers

Budget beauty: Top to toe budget buys to march you into spring – military blazer £45, full skirt £34.26, belt £11.75, tights £8 and headband £6, brooch £6 (right). From ASOS (www. asos.com)

Winter warmer: If you are still in the market for a winter warmer, go for a subtle look. Try muted tartan tones seen on this coat from Marks and Spencer Outlet, rrp £69.50 but only £39.50 at the outlet at Fleetwood Freeport. For a touch of glamour add a pair of beautiful leather gloves also from Marks and Spencer Outlet for £6.50, down from rrp £9.50, and a stunning cream tote such as this from Bags etc, rrp £75, outlet price only £49. Max effect: Once upon a time if you wanted designer togs you had to pay top dollar for them. But TK Maxx broke the mould on the high street, selling designer items with low price tags. Recommended retail prices are slashed by up to 60 per cent all year round and fresh stock is delivered daily – even Kate Middleton is reported to love sniffing out a bargain in TK. Check out the fantastic selection of handbags (left), starting from as little as £12.99.

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SNOW BUSINESS: Funky snowboarders should experiment with colours and texture to ensure an up-to-date modern look on the slopes. This look combines this season’s must-have icy shades with a feminine twist of pink. This winter warmer of a hat is £6.95 and goggles, £34.95, both from Trespass COLOUR CODE: Two-tone chic is one way to straddle the tricky transitional period between winter and the new spring season. Bag Marks and Spencer’s Limited Collection colour block tunic dress, £19.50, available now.

LOVE ALL: Love is in the air at Blackpool’s Debenhams this weekend. The Houndshill store is putting the spotlight on romance today and tomorrow with a special event for weddings and civil partnerships. Throughout the weekend there will be fashion shows, free makeovers, goodie bags and prizes and complimentary bucks fizz.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life! 13

TRAVEL&HOLIDAYS OLD STYLE: A typical Baroque church in Ouro Preto, Brazil

Victoria Mitchell discovers the delights of Brazilian cities

Nuts about Brazil

But he suffered a debilitating disease, thought veil of light mist shrouds the terracotta to be leprosy, and was given the name – by roofs dotting the picturesque green which he is best known – of Aleijadinho, valley. The glowing copper sun gently meaning ‘little cripple’. rises above the hills adding to the The interior of St Francis is richly decorated beauty of the already stunning scene. with gold leaf woodwork, statues and paintings, White, wooden-slatted shutters swing open on and has an intriguing painting on the wooden Baroque houses. ceiling by Manuel da Costa Athayde. And in cobbled streets, market traders noisily It is worth hiring a guide to take you round the set out trinkets and baubles on their stalls, church as there’s so much significance and causing those still sleeping to stir. history behind each and every sculpture. It is the beginning of another day in Ouro Preto Ouro Preto’s imposing 18th century – the city of ‘Black Gold’ and the scene of one Inconfidencia Museum holds the records of the of the biggest gold and sliver rushes great men and revolutionaries who shaped the in the Americas as it boomed in the early history of Brazil, and the city is also home to the 1700s. oldest working theatre in South America. It became the capital of the state of Minas Out of town, visitors can go down a goldmine Gerais as colonists flocked to the area to mine and ride a steam train from for gold, silver, gems and one of the small mining latterly diamonds. towns back to Ouro Preto Although the city still boasts through the lush, green traditional Baroque hills. architecture, there is little During July – winter in evidence of modern urban MY TOP HOLIDAY Brazil – people flock to the life. city for the Festival de Granted UNESCO World Pembrokshire. Inverno (winter carnival) Heritage status for its artistic I love the when shows, plays, art significance, it retains the cottage we exhibitions and workshops character, charm and stay in, the take over the city. buildings of the miners who shops, the You won’t find any major flocked there. scenery, the hotel chains here, instead Portuguese colonial beaches and the city is dotted with small architecture is present in the the cafes – boutique hotels and houses, public buildings and full-time guesthouses. throughout the city. mum One of the best is Ouro Preto lies in the Heather Baxter Pousada Do Mondego (far Espinhaco Mountain range Give us your holiday view. right), a converted 18th and is one of the most e-mail life@ century mansion. visited places in Brazil. blackpoolgazette.co.uk The family-run hotel has On almost every road you’ll spectacular views over the find a church of some kind market place and valley with open doors from the deck and many bedrooms. inviting tourists to marvel at the ornate Every room is different and comfortable with all rococo interiors, intricate sculptures and amenities you’d find in a big city hotel. artwork. Breakfast could only be described as The most famous is the church of St Francis, sumptuous and sweet, with an array of jams, which lies in the heart of the city. marmalades, cakes, breads and lashings of Celebrated Brazilian architect and sculptor dolce de leite – a sticky Portuguese caramel Antonio Francisco Lisboa designed the popular throughout Latin America. Catholic church and spent years working Today, the capital of Minas Gerais is Belo on the whitewashed building’s striking Horizonte, about 100km north of Ouro Preto sculptures. Work began in 1771 and took more and 450km north of Rio De Janeiro. than 20 years to complete.

YOURVIEW

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FACTFILE

● Victoria Mitchell was a guest of Journey Latin America, which offers seven-night stays in Brazil, including four nights in Rio at the Sofitel, two nights in Ouro Preto, and one night in Belo Horizonte from £2,180 per person in June

2009. Package includes return flights to Rio, internal flights, first-class B&B, land transport, guided excursions. Manchester/Glasgow supplements from £90 return. Journey Latin America

With a population of around five million, it is the third largest city in Brazil. Tourists generally pass through Belo Horizonte, simply referred to by locals as BH, on the way to Ouro Preto, some for an hour or two or usually a day at most. But it has much to offer as a destination. For a start, it’s said to boast more bars per head than any other city in Brazil and locals claim it has as many as 12,000. They joke that the many bars make up for the city not having a sea. Made up of many different people, Minas has seasoned its food with a mix of indigenous,

reservations: 020 8747 8315 (London) 0161 832 1441 (Manchester) or www.journeylatinamerica. co.uk. ● For further destination information, see www.braziltour.com.

African and European and Portuguese cultures in its recipes. One well-known haunt, which bursts at the seams every Sunday with families enjoying lunch, is Xapuri. Under a thatched roof, families squeeze round thick pine picnic tables. The aroma of charcoal-grilled meats fills the air, and the chattering of hungry customers discussing and debating life with friends hits you as you step through the wooden archway entrance. An array of meat dishes and accompaniments, from roast pork to fillet

TRAVEL&HOLIDAYS Looking down on to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

AHOY THERE: Canoeing down the River Odet

Past and present charms of Brittany

mignon, and cauldrons of stewed chicken with corn and green cabbage fill the ample menu. Diners are even entertained by the house samba quartet. The restaurant is attached to stables where adventurous customers work up an appetite with a riding lesson. If this all sounds a bit too tranquil, rest assured that there’s plenty of action in Rio De Janeiro, a short flight from Belo Horizonte. While the most iconic images of Rio are the 120ft statue of Christ the Redeemer and the lofty peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, there is a lot to do on ground level.

Copacabana is still one of the finest stretches of pristine sand in the world, while nearby Ipanema beach attracts locals. On every beach, however, you will spot young men and women showing off their well bronzed and toned bodies and often playing volleyball in skimpy swimwear and thongs. A visit to Rio isn’t complete without seeing the massive Estadio do Maracana football stadium where tourists can try ‘keepie-uppie’ at the edge of the pitch. They can step in Pele’s shoe prints, which were set in concrete, along with some of the other top Brazilian players. At night the city is buzzing - from packed beach bars and restaurants to city street stalls downtown. Samba, the national music of Brazil, is everywhere. There are some packed venues where youngsters flock to dance - not to the usual techno beats preferred by western clubs, but to sounds of 10-piece samba bands. Even in top-end bars people waiting to be served shuffle their feet to the samba beat. Although it looks impossible to master, the flatfooted Brits in our party couldn’t help but join in and dance the night away. Rio, like Brazil, gets under your skin.

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or my nine-year-old son, it was an Lesconil, a fishing village where we found a virtually deserted white sandy beach. adventure into the unknown. Even in the height of summer there is far Settling himself into the front of the more space for you to spread out than in a two-man canoe, he and his father Mediterranean resort, or even in Cornwall. paddled out into the vast bay towards the However, unlike the Mediterranean, the red and green markers that would guide them 16 kilometres downstream to the sea. weather in Brittany isn’t as reliable. On cloudy days we ventured into other places The wide Kerogan Bay just outside of interest, including Quimper, capital of the Quimper in southern Brittany is a perfect Finistere region, a beautiful medieval city. starting point for beginners who want to take in this beautiful stretch of water, which Quimper has several claims to fame, including the cathedral of Saint-Corentin, ripples with the tides of the Odet river. the earliest Gothic cathedral in lower They set off in the morning as the tide was Brittany. The church was begun in 1240, going out towards the sea, helping their though its twin spires date from 1856. passage, stopping en route as the river We cycled from our campsite along the narrowed to admire the many pretty banks of the Odet to Quimper and then French chateaux nestled in the trees on crossed one of the narrow bridges which the banks, undoing their water-tight access a pedestrianised area leading up container strapped to the back of the to the narrow cobbled streets awash with canoe to retrieve their cameras to take chic boutiques and restaurants. pictures of this gloriously peaceful setting. An Aladdin’s cave of traditional Breton The currents picked up towards the end of goods is the walled old town called Ville their journey along the estuary to Benodet. Close in nearby This traditional seaside Concarneau. Ville Close is town, whose name means on an island only 350m long ‘tip of the Odet’, was used and 100m wide connected in the Middle Ages as a ● Keycamp Holidays offers by a drawbridge, and is commercial outer harbour self-catering holidays to surrounded by the sea. for Quimper. more than 100 top parcs Concarneau, which has an My daughter and I made across nine European impressive marina and the 20-minute drive from countries and the USA, all fishing harbour, grew up our campsite at Lanniron, with good facilities and around the Ville Close and another historical choice of mobile home, is the third largest fishing landmark, to meet them. chalet or tent. port in France. We whiled away the time in ● Seven nights in May The fishing museum tells the lively outdoor market at 2009 for two adults and up the history of the town and Benodet, picking up to four children, in a mobile its importance as a fish crepes, admiring the fish home with decking at canning centre. stalls teaming with Keycamp’s L’Orangerie de Concarneau was also an mussels, sardines and Lanniron in Southern artists’ paradise, frequented oysters, and perusing the Brittany, starts at £414.50, by the likes of Gauguin, stands of regional ciders. including Dover-Calais who set up his studio in The budding canoeists crossings. Tel 0844 406 nearby Pont-Aven, a arrived on the beach two0319, www.keycamp.co.uk. picturesque village inland and-a-half hours later. which has many galleries. From the long stretch of Our campsite, L’Orangerie de Lanniron, is sandy beach at Benodet and the nearby set in the 66-acre grounds of the Chateau beach of Cap Coz, you can hire sailing de Lanniron, former residence of the boats, windsurfs and kayaks to take for an bishops of Quimper in the 13th century. hour or two on the sea. It’s great fun, but It covers just 10 acres of land within the not for the faint-hearted. grounds, and was set up in 1969 to help Dipping my toes in the water, I could feel pay for the upkeep of the chateau on the tiny hermit crabs tickling the soles of my banks of the River Odet feet and looked down to see these little It’s an ideal base, just 2km from Quimper crustaceans , which provided a great and 15 minutes’ drive from the beach. source of amusement for the children. On other sunny days we headed for Hannah Stephenson

FACTFILE

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life! 15

TRAVEL&HOLIDAYS

Here’s a selection of Gazette Travel offers... in association with Liverpool John Lennon Airport MADEIRA AND PORTO SANTO

Weekly departures throughout 2009, eight days from £399

It is not surprising that Madeira has long been popular with the British. Its climate of warm summers and winters is just right and along the years it has become and ideal holiday destination for those seeking peace and relaxation. Porto Santo is situated 25 miles to the north east of Madeira. This little known island is a real treasure and boasts warm crystal waters, sunny climate and a fantastic 5mile long sandy beach. Full details of all the resorts and hotels are featured in the new brochure. Organised by Atlantic Holidays ABTA V3671.

EDINBURGH TATTOO Aug 7 or 21, three days from £199.95

A thousand performers from the four corners of the globe will come together for Scotland’s sensational international showcase of music entertainment and dance in the amazing and romantic setting of Edinburgh Castle. Each year more than 220,000 people from throughout the world attend this stunning sell out. Includes coach travel from the local area, 2 nights hotel accommodation in the Glasgow area, Full Scottish breakfasts, Dinner at the hotel on the evening when you are not attending the Tattoo and a ticket for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo (face value £21). Upgraded tickets are available for a supplement. Organised by Omega Holidays ABTA V4782.

CHATSWORTH HOUSE & THE PEAK DISTRICT Aug 14, four days from £199.95

Come see and enjoy the beautiful Peak District on this great value and interest packed four day summertime weekend break. From rugged Peaks and Tors, to gentle deeply wooded vales and the serene and stately grandeur of Chatsworth, home to one of England’s noblest families, The Peak District offers the visitor ample scenic splendour and variety beyond compare. Includes return coach travel, three nights hotel accommodation, dinner and full English breakfast and admission to Chatsworth House and Gardens. Organised by Omega Holidays ABTA V4782.

his spectacular Classic Scottish Steam holiday allows you to travel through Scotland, passing breathtaking scenery and years of history and tradition. Included are journeys on the Jacobite Steam train travelling from Fort William to Mallaig, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world as well as a journey on the last sea going paddle steamer, the PS Waverley, and a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard the steam ship SS Sir Walter Scott. Your holiday begins when you board the private coach early in the morning for the journey to the Rob Roy hotel. This hotel is situated one mile form the picturesque village of Aberfoyle. All the bedrooms offer private en suite facilities, colour televisions, central heating and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel’s lounge bar makes the ideal place to meet with fellow guests to chat about the day’s events and those of tomorrow, whilst the restaurant is renowned for its excellent home cooking. On arrival you will have time to unpack and become acquainted with your new surroundings before you included evening meal is served. After breakfast the following day you will travel to Loch Katrine for the included cruise onboard the stream ship SS Sir Walter Scott. This grand old lady, the only surviving screw steamer in service in Scotland, has been sailing majestically on Loch Katrine since 1900 and has uniquely provided a quiet, serene and memorable pleasure cruise to her thousands of passengers. During the course of the journey you take in breathtaking scenery and historic landmarks such as Ellen’s Isle, Silver Strand and Portnellan. After your cruise re board the coach and travel to Callander, a small highland town, for free time. From here you return to the hotel for your evening meal. On day three after your included early breakfast you will travel to Fort William which is magnificently placed in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain and on the shores of Loch Linnhe. From here you will board the Jacobite Steam Train for the included steam journey on the West Highland Line travelling to Mallaig. Sit back, relax and enjoy the magnificent scenery as you travel on what is known by many as the most memorable and spectacular rail journey in the world. You travel across bridges and viaducts, through tunnels, cuttings and glens, around mountains and along rivers and lochs. Be sure to have your camera at the ready. Having arrived in picturesque Mallaig, you will have free time to explore this active fishing port, where the houses spill down the slopes overlooking the bay, sheltered by two headlands. From here you return to your hotel. The following day after breakfast you travel to join the included cruise on the world’s last sea going paddle steamer, the PS Waverley. The PS Waverley built in 1947, was the last Clyde steamer to be built and at 240 feet long and 57 feet

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SCENIC JOURNEY: Take a trip on The Jacobite steam train to Mallaig

Steam to the north CONTACTNUMBERS Call our 24-hour brochure hotline: 01772 838080 Other inquiries: Telephone as above or www.gazettetravel.co.uk

broad she is quite a sight. Unlike ferries the ps Waverley was designed as a cruise ship with space for passengers to move around her full length promenade deck, the perfect place to relax and watch the scenery go by. The ps Waverley underwent a £4 million refit in 2003 and is now once again restored to her former beauty. Only onboard this beautiful steamer can you steam along the beautiful Firth of Clyde, see the magnificent steam engines and be part

of the great Clyde Paddle Steamer cruising tradition which began in Victorian Days. On board the facilities include a self service restaurant, a lounge, a souvenir shop and a bar. The true delight will be sitting back and enjoying the splendid scenery of the Firth of Clyde. For many though the main attraction will be viewing the massive steam engine in operation, as it is one of the largest ever fitted to a paddle steamer. This 5 day break departs July 13, 2009 and costs from £309. The price includes return coach travel, four nights hotel, cooked breakfasts and three course evening meals, single journey on the SS Sir Walter Scott on Loch Katrine, a single journey on the Jacobite Steam Train travelling from Fort William to Mallaig, a cruise on the ps Waverley and a visit to Callander. For a brochure please telephone our brochureline. Organised by Diamond Holidays ABTA W0552.

WHAT’SON Laughs galore at comedy gig

THE Comedy Station is returning to The Edge on Hardhorn Road in Poulton on Thursday. Headlining this month is Tim Clark, a comedy circuit stalwart and regular compere at Jongleurs and the Comedy Store. He has toured with Frank Skinner, was the first ever British comic to work in Beijing and has also performed in Shanghai, Singapore, Bangkok, Kosovo and Bosnia. Supporting Tim will be Joseph Wilson who has been the support act for Barry Cryer and Ronnie Golden’s Edinburgh 2006 preview, a finalist in the Chortle 2008 Student Final Competition and as TV warm-up for Endemol. Compere as usual will be Ryan Gleeson. Doors will open at 8pm and entry will be £5.

Top comic Russell back on the road W

ith presenter Jonathan Ross back on BBC TV and again hosting his radio show, it’s comedian and actor Russell Brand’s turn to return to the spotlight with his latest nationwide tour. He’s back at Blackpool Opera House on Friday following dates at the Liverpool TONIGHT’S the night for a soul tribute at one of Echo Arena on Monday and Manchester the world’s great dance venues, the Tower Apollo on Wednesday and Thursday. Ballroom, Blackpool. The sell-out tour marks the comedian’s first Mecca to Motown 50 is guaranteed to take you public outing in the UK since he and Ross landed themselves in hot water for remarks on a nostalgic spin back in time, celebrating made – and initially overlooked – during a the 50th anniversary of Motown Records. Legendary Wigan Casino DJ Russ Winstanley radio show in which they left offensive messages on veteran actor Andrew Sachs’ and guest DJ and top designer Wayne telephone answering machine. Hemingway, a former Highland Room and Blackpool Mecca regular, will be on the decks. Not that it seems to have damaged Brand’s burgeoning film career (though it’s The event is being held 8pm - 2am Tickets £9 put his radio ambitions on hold for a on the door. while!).

Soul night

It’s been a whirlwind couple of years for the foppish funnyman. His scene-stealing performance in Judd Apatow’s Forgetting Sarah Marshall drew widespread acclaim, enhancing the reputation he earned with movies, Britflicks Penelope and St Trinians. He has more recently been seen in Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler and has been cast in Judd Apatow’s next feature, filming later this year. Russell’s stand-up show has also been taking the United States by storm. An appearance at Montreal’s world-renowned comedy festival followed sell-out dates in New York and Los Angeles. His autobiography My Booky Wook topped the UK best-seller list and sold in excess 600,000 hardback copies, going on to win a prestigious Nibby at the British Book Awards.

ON TOUR: Russell Brand

The lunatics take over ... CIRCUS of Horrors’ bloodcurdling show The Asylum is back at Blackpool Grand Theatre on Sunday. Set in an archaic institution on the edge of Paris, side-show owner Dr Haze presents his fabulously bizarre show The Asylum. While Paris sleeps the the lunatics have taken over – with new acts and new shocks. Dr Haze is the Undead Ringmaster to take you through this macabre tale with the help of the live rock ‘n’ roll of the The Interceptors From Hell and a cast of burlesque beauties, chaosmongers and some of the world’s greatest, most grotesque, most daring and bizarre circus acts. It’s a staggering 14 years since the Circus of Horrors first trampled the bloody boards and it has since toured relentlessly around the world,

achieving cult status and generally dragging circus screaming and shouting into the 21st century and beyond. The show starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are from £12.50 from the Grand Theatre box office on (01253) 290190 or online at www. blackpoolgrand.co.uk Please note that Circus of Horrors is not suitable for children and they will only be allowed in if accompanied by an adult who understands the show contains bad language and some nudity, but not of a sexual nature. Parking is available at a discounted rate at West Street Car Park. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the box office and you can have parking from 5.30pm until 12.30am for £2.50.

ROUND&ABOUT ●

Tony Award winning comedy BoeingBoeing is on at The Lowry, Salford Quays from Monday, and stars a number of familiar faces from television, including Sarah Jayne Dunn (Mandy in Hollyoaks), Hotel Babylon actors Martin and John Marquez, and Susie Blake, best known for her appearances on The Victoria Wood Show and, more recently, as Beverley Unwin in Coronation Street. ■ Boeing-Boeing: The Lowry, Salford Quays, Greater Manchester. Monday to Saturday, evenings 7.30pm plus Wednesday and Saturday matinees 2pm. Box office: 0870 787 5793 or www.thelowry.com

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The laughs are free at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre in 2009 with a new regular monthly stand-up comedy slot. Comic FX – part of the SFX (Special Fridays at the Exchange) season of free early-evening entertainment in the Great Hall – will take place on the first Friday of every month and feature some of the best names on the local and national circuit. On Friday compere Des Sharples introduces Mancunian gagster Tony Burgess and support act Andy Kind. All the Comic FX gigs run from 6pm to 7pm.

DUKE’S DIARY

A taste of New Orleans food and music THE Villa Hotel in Wrea Green welcomes back the Dan Forshaw Quartet on Friday for a special evening entitled New Orleans Rum and Gumbo Jazz. With the winter chill and the credit crunch biting hard, promoter of the events Dan Forshaw decided it was time to bring in another of his great loves (food) into the jazz mix. The country house hotel will undergo a

transformation in order to prepare for this Mardi Gras event. New Orleans cuisine is famous the world over for its amalgamation of French, Italian and Creole flavours and the Villa’s head chef, Mark Bancroft has prepared many Louisiana favourites including a special genuine Gumbo stew for the event. Jazz events at The Villa are booked

throughout 2009 and take place on the first Friday of each month. March sees the return of Chris Smith on trumpet, with Italian guitarist Willy Fluss on Friday, April 3. The events start at 8pm and finish late. Entry is free, but you are advised to arrive early in order to guarantee seating.

Dirty Den stars in murder riddle

astEnders’ Dirty Den, Leslie Grantham, stars in the captivating crime tale Murder With Love at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Monday to Saturday, February 7. Deceit, suspicion, blackmail and incrimination are expertly woven into this exciting thriller with a tantalising twist in the tale from the world’s most popular and prolific modern crime writer – Francis Durbridge. Many people dislike Larry Campbell, but none with more reason than David Ryder, who pursues his vendetta by obtaining a key to Campbell’s flat with the intent to exact his revenge, but his plans do not go as expected. Fast-paced and packed full of blind alleys and red herrings, this riveting murder mystery from the master craftsman of the genre will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Leslie Grantham, who starred in the classic wartime drama Dad’s Army at the Grand Theatre in March last year, is best known as playing the loveable rogue Dirty Den Watts in BBC’s EastEnders from 19851989. He then starred in his own series, The Paradise Club. He returned to EastEnders from 2003-2005, and since then has worked extensively in the theatre. The Ian Dickens Production also stars Jack Marsden, Neil Stacy and Marcus Hutton. Jack Marsden is probably best known for playing rogue policeman Danny Rylance

The night is free (no booking necessary) and takes place in the Great Hall in the theatre foyer. Cheap drinks are available from the Great Hall Bar from 5.30pm to 7pm and savings are available in the Craft Shop from 5.30pm to 7pm. Texas frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri follows up her debut solo album and recent single It Was You with a tour which takes her to the Manchester Apollo tomorrow. ■ Manchester Apollo – (0844) 4777 677. Credit Card Bookings: (0844) 576 5483.

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CRIME TALE: Leslie Grantham in Murder With Love in the award-winning BBC1 series The Cops. Neil Stacy starred in the comedy series Duty Free, Three Up Two Down, The House of Windsor and most recently Get Well Soon. He was last at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre in 2007 in Francis Durbridge’s thrilling A Touch of Danger. Marcus Hutton is best known for playing

Tickets also available online at www.seetickets.com or www.ticketmaster. co.uk

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Fresh from his successful UK tour last year – which saw him impress a Blackpool Opera House audience – Billy Ocean will be at Lancaster Grand Theatre on Wednesday. Billy Ocean is the biggest black recording star Britain has ever produced – having sold over 30 million records in his lifetime.

the regular character Nathan Cuddington in Channel 4’s Brookside and recently in Hollyoaks. Performances are Monday at 8pm, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Thursday and Saturday matinees at 1.30pm. Book seats from the Grand Theatre box office on (01253) 290190 or online at www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

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My word! Phrases I can’t stand

Juan Martin, widely regarded as one of the best guitarists in the world and celebrated flamenco virtuoso is to perform at Manchester Bridgwater Hall and Theatre By The Lake in Keswick as part of his latest UK tour. Following on from critically acclaimed performances of Frederico Garcia Lorca’s Blood Wedding, Martin was reviewed as being “the greatest flamenco guitarist of his generation,” He is Manchester on Wednesday and Keswick on February 16.

re there are any words that you really hate – or at least really hate falling into the trap of using? I’ve a particular dislike of the random use of the word “random” – even though I do use it randomly when I probably mean occasionally. For a word which my pocket dictionary defines as “made or done by chance or without plan” it has, it seems, become rather more – or should that be less – than random in its appearances. There’s barely a day goes by that someone in this office doesn’t use the word – going into a random pub (when it was planned all along), meeting a random old friend (when it was prearranged months ago), even writing a random story (when they’ve been instructed to do so). Thankfully it will be a while before other pet hates such as “Chrimbo,” “Chrimbo presents” and “Chrissie” are bandied around again – and likewise at least a month or so before the first “Xmas” press release arrives. It’s Christmas – always has been (well, for a couple of thousand years) and always should be. I’m hoping the recent flu epidemic soon abates because I am tired of people telling me they’ve had the “lurgy.” They haven’t. They’ve had flu – except for the ones who have actually had a bad cold and are simply exaggerating their symptoms. I always thought I was on my own with my pet hates but then I heard about a bunch of “maverick” (that’s their quote marks because they dislike the word) American academics who have completed their latest “desperate search” (them again) for words and phrases that have become “iconic” (yep, that’s taboo too). Lake Superior State University’s 34th Annual List of Words To Be Banished from the Queen’s English for Misuse, Overuse and General Uselessness sifted though 5,000 nominations to arrive at 15 words and saying they would most like to stop hearing. Thankfully environmental jargon featured prominently with “carbon footprint” wearing thin and even “green” being overused. The watering down of “icon” and “iconic” was one of the most nominated words and I can see why. Just about every new pub, club, bar or other venue in Blackpool has been described as “iconic” at some stage in its pre-publicity and just about everyone in them on opening night has been elevated to an “icon.” Journalists as responsible for “desperate” being included for the proliferation of “desperate search” and “it’s that time of year again” should be blackballed because, after all, it’s always “that time of year again” wherever you are on the calendar. “Maverick fell into disgrace round about the time that American presidential race loser John McCain felt he was one. One phrase that didn’t make it through to this year’s final was “credit crunch” but it’s only a matter of time. robin.duke@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

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Saturday, January 31, 2009

life! 19

TIMEOUT

BOOKS

NEW FICTION THE UNICORN ROAD Martin Davies

Benedict is a small child when he is sent to work for the great scholar, Antioch. But while his father thinks he is giving his son the chance of a better life, filled with knowledge and discovery, the young boy soon becomes part of a dangerous adventure. Antioch is sent on a new expedition by the ruler of his land, Lord Manfred. His task is to find rare species of beast, including unicorns and mermaids, which Lord Manfred can use as political bargaining tools. Benedict is soon sailing to strange lands with Antioch, a renowned interpreter and the formidable warrior, general Decius. Each member of the team has their own agenda, and it’s not long before the group is in grave danger. Meanwhile, Benedict’s father is sitting at home wondering what has become of his son. This is an outstanding book with plenty of adventure, danger and love. Hodder & Stoughton, £12.99

THE CHALK CIRCLE MAN Fred Vargas

“Circles, always circles,’’ mutters Commissaire Adamsberg as he embarks on the final unravelling of a murder mystery that is as orbital and oblique as its title suggests. ‘The Chalk Circle Man’, French crime-writer Fred Vargas’s fifth novel, charts a murder investigation launched after the appearance of blue chalked circles on the streets of Paris takes a sinister turn. Jean-Baptiste Adamsberg, himself a compulsive doodler, is intrigued by the circles, which he fears “ooze cruelty’’ – a statement typical of a detective who relies on intuition more than “deductive reasoning’’. But while Adamsberg’s meditative nature makes him a beguiling character, it also ensures he remains as mysterious as one of the chalk circles. Vargas draws a perplexing outline of her detective, leaving us to wonder what exactly lies beyond these contours. Harvill Secker, £12.99

YOURVIEW

NEW NON FICTION ENGLAND OBSERVED, (1900-1999) John Gay

A fabulous 1940s picture of paddling on Blackpool beach features on the cover of the latest English Heritage coffee table volume. England Observed: John Gay is a new book of prolific photographer John Gay’s work which marks the centenary of his birth and includes more than 300 black and white images held by the National Monuments Record. Three other Blackpool seafront images from his 1949 visit include children watching promenade entertainment, the Oyster Stand and Central Pier. Born Hans Ludwig Gohler in 1909, Gay emigrated to Britain from Germany in 1935 and after a period of war service established himself as one of the country’s leading photographers of the mid-20th century. The book provides a fascinating chronicle of British life, including British landscape, architecture, animals and portraits including Agatha Christie, Dylan and Honor Blackman. English Heritage, £20.

PAPERBACK CHOICE THE REAPERS John Connolly

There’s far more chance of a reaper coming for you, if there’s more than one. In John Connolly’s latest crime thriller the Reapers are an elite group of killers, who exist only to end the lives of others. Can the former policeman turned private detective Charlie Parker rise to the challenge, once again? Hodder, £6.99

NEWDVDs DVD: DEATH RACE

oting family man Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) is framed for the slaying of his wife Suzy (Janaya Stephens) and sent to Terminal Island maximum-security prison, run by no-nonsense warden Hennessy (Joan Allen). She presides over Death Race, a threeday showdown on the facility’s specially constructed course. Hennessy offers Ames his freedom if he agrees to race as the mythical masked driver Frankenstein against three-time champion Machine Gun Joe (Tyrese Gibson), Pachenko, Travis Colt, Grimm and 14K. Ames reluctantly agrees and prepares for the big day behind the wheel of his Mustang V8 Fastback, aided by lead mechanic Coach (Ian McShane), pit crew Lists (Frederick Koehler) and Gunner (Jacob Vargas), and sassy navigator Case (Natalie Martinez). Loosely based on a 1975 cult classic, Death Race is a nonstop assault on the senses, from the deafening soundtrack intensified with the sound of growling engines to Niven Howie’s hyperactive editing and writerdirector Paul WS Anderson’s insatiable hunger for crash-bang-wallop destruction. Square-jawed hard man Statham is perfectly cast as the hero of the hour, a three-time speedway champion with an aversion to any emotion in his delivery of the admittedly clumsy dialogue. Oscar nominee Allen brings gravitas to her thankless role as the ice maiden. (Cert 15, 106 mins, Universal Pictures UK, Action, DVD £19.99/Blu-ray £24.99)

Convicts get ready to race ... RACE ACES: Machine Gun Joe (Tyrese Gibson), Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) and Coach (Ian McShane)

MUSIC

BOOKCLUB CHOICE THE LUMINOUS LIFE OF LILLY APHRODITE Beatrice Colin

Apparently inspired by the author’s greataunt, who lived in Berlin after WWI and worked in the German film industry – this darkly seductive novel showcases the glitter and darkness of the Weimar Republic. John Murray, £7.99

THE LAST DVD I SAW

Mamma Mia! has got to be one of the best DVDs for years. It’s just a feelgood film with great music and the Greek scenery is spectacular – Helen Wright, Grasmere Road, Blackpool Tell us about your favourite book or DVD. e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

22 life! LOGON www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk

THE TIME OF THE ASSASSINS Nickel Eye

What do you do when your band takes an indefinite break? Well, The Strokes bassist Nikolai Fraiture (Nickel Eye....get it?) has dusted down some old doodlings and got together with Brit band South plus guest appearances by the wonderful Regina Spektor and Yeah Yeah Yeah’s Nick Zinner. The result is somewhere between Iggy Pop and The Only Ones (particularly on Another Sunny Afternoon). His take on Leonard Cohen’s weepie Hey That’s No Way To Say Goodbye is also worth a whirl. Rykodisc

COVERS

CHANGING SONGS

Having sold millions of copies of the songs he’s written himself, it makes sense for Taylor to expand on the idea he’s occasionally dabbled with (notably JImmy Jones’ Handy Man) and release a whole album of cover versions and revivals. Already a huge hit in the USA, it won’t do him any harm in the UK where his last solo tour won him a legion of new fans. Skip the cabaret style Summertime Blues move onto his Tom Waits, Dixie Chicks and Jimmy Webb moments. Hear Music/Universal

Despite a name which sounds more at home with world music, choice Kweller’s fourth full length album ditches everything he has done before to take on the type of territory more associated with the likes of Gram Parsons and New Riders of the Purple Sage. The result is a stripped down retro country rock collection of the first order, which he’s been working on since he was 16 (he’s 27 now) by scooping songs from previous releases. It’s his Sweethearts of the Rodeo. ATO Music

James Taylor

Ben Kweller

✔ life!

TIMEOUT

GAMESGEAR

THE DVD RENTAL TOP 10 1 (1) Hancock 2 (-) Death Race 3 (6) The Mummy Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor 4 (-) You Don’t Mess With The Zohan 5 (-) Bangkok Dangerous 6 (3) The Dark Knight 7 (5) Hellboy 2: The Golden Army 8 (4) Wall-E 9 (2) Pineapple Express 10 (8) Wanted

RELUCTANT HERO: Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) has breakfast in the mess hall

OTHERDVDS

STEP BROTHERS

Brennan (Will Ferrell) is 40years-old going on 14. He still lives at home with his mother Nancy (Mary Steenburgen) and openly nurtures resentment for his arrogant, younger brother Derek (Adam Scott), who has a perfect family. Nancy meets Robert (Richard Jenkins), who has his own adult son at home – Dale (John C Reilly) – and the lonely fifty-somethings embark on a whirlwind romance. Wedding bells peel and Nancy

excitedly moves in with her new husband. Now Brennan and Dale must share a bedroom. Sibling rivalry spirals out of control. (Cert 15, 101 mins, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Comedy, DVD £17.99/two-disc DVD £19.99/Blu-ray £24.99)

ROCKNROLLA

Three years after the disaster of Revolver, writer-director Guy Ritchie returns to the mean streets of London for this

■ Chart supplied by www.block buster.co.uk

serpentine gangland thriller. RocknRolla is fleeting style and no substance, with a plot that quite literally goes round in circles. The film leans heavily on slow motion and the plot hangs together by a thread. Regrettably, the film ends with a whimper rather than a bang and the very real threat of a sequel. (Cert 15, 109 mins, Warner Home Video, Thriller/Action/ Comedy/Romance, DVD £19.99/Blu-ray £26.99)

FOOTBALL MANAGER LIVE PC/Mac

The Football Manager series has presented one of the most incredibly involving and time-munching gaming experiences over the years, and now the interactivity has raised a notch as football management goes massively multiplayer. You’re now competing in the reality of virtual leagues against other online subscribers as you create and manage your very own football club, choosing your team name, colours, badge, home ground, and also which players to sign from the incredible database of over 330,000 real world footballers. There’s obviously a healthy social aspect to this kind of game, but the competitive side still gets pretty heated during matches, while there’s much fun to be had buying, selling, loaning or exchanging players with other managers in the lively transfer market. The Football Manager series has taken another step towards dominating your life – and all for less than 20p per day... 4/5 £29.99

MY FITNESS COACH Wii

It’s around this time of year that the cracks start to appear in those New Year’s resolutions, which is probably why My Fitness Coach is thrusting itself into the consciousness of tubby Wii gamers. Allowing you to create your own bespoke fitness programme, you begin proceedings with what may turn out to be a highly embarrassing lifestyle evaluation and fitness level, before setting yourself a fitness goal. Then your virtual personal trainer Maya gives you guidance on how to, say, improve core body strength or increase flexibility by selecting from almost 500 unique exercises. It won’t win any awards for graphical prowess, sound or gameplay, but it certainly helps focus the mind and, at this time of year, may be just what the waistline ordered. 3/5 £19.99

SAINTS ROW 2 PC

THE VERY BEST OF THE DETROIT SPINNERS

Probably the only group to effortlessly span the sounds of Motown, Philadephia and the Atlantic label, the music of the Detroit Spinners has been surprisingly enduring. This 21 track collection brings together the best of their plentiful output opening with Are You Ready For Love (which Elton John made even more famous) and takes in The Rubberband Man, It’s A Shame, Mighty Love, Ghetto Child and other gems. Rhino

STEVE WRIGHT’S SUNDAY LOVE SONGS ...FROM ME TO YOU Various

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner it’s time to remember that it’s cheaper to say I love you with a double CD than it is with a bunch of flowers. This collection is themed around requests on Steve Wright’s strangely popular BBC Radio 2 programme and brings together familiar favourites such as Diana Ross with Ain’t No Mountain High Enough with rather more modern offerings from the likes of Razorlight and The Feeling. Universal Music TV

YOURVIEW e-mail life@blackpoolgazette.co.uk

THE KINGS OF SWING Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Jamie Cullum, Tony Bennett and Tony Hadley

Former Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley was probably the first out of the traps to buy a copy of this triple CD – then pinch himself to see what company he’s keeping these days. The collection alternates the veterans with the newbies but even so elevating Hadley’s strong but hardly royal voice to sit alongside Tony Bennett is pushing it. The more distinctive Michael and Jamie both get Frank, who still wins. Smith & Co Sound & Vision

It’s a shame that GTA IV has stolen all the sand-box thunder to be had from the past 12 months, and Saints Row 2’s move to PC is likely to pass a little under the radar. That said, while this never really reaches the dizzy heights of GTA, Saints Row 2 has been much improved from its first outing, with a totally transformed and

WEBSITE

HOT COMPETITION: Football Manager Live expanded city of Stilwater, all new vehicles, sandbox tools and toys as well as both online co-op and competitive multiplayer. And it is great fun, which is always a good thing in these games that can often take themselves too seriously. Yes, the story is darker and more sinister, but it’s the action, customisation options and overall player freedom that make you want to give this a go, even with Liberty City calling. 4/5 £34.99

SKATE 2 Xbox 360

Skate was a hugely entertaining skateboarding experience, which broke the monotony of the Tony Hawk series and gave gamers a grittier, more ‘real’ skating experience. The sequel looks to improve on an already excellent title, and does a damn fine job, with a plethora of new features and a feeling of much greater depth overall. Your character picks up bumps and bruises along the way, showing the true effects of your poor control and, like the original, casual gamers and hardcore skate nuts will both get plenty from Skate 2, especially when you take the experience online. There you can challenge opponents to take you on in your custom-built trick areas, and the baffling amount of customising options available to the game world make the skating possibilities practically endless. This is the future of next-gen skating, and you’ll love it. 4/5 £49.99

In this modern age of both parents working and not enough hours in the day, raising kids is even harder work than it used to be. But www.parenthacks.com could lend you a hand. This site gives you daily doses of parenting tips, all submitted by fellow parents. You can also learn how to stay organised, save some money, and stay healthy. And if you have any top tips of your own, don’t be afraid to share them.

BROWSING AROUND

■ Can you do the green thing? ww.dothegreenthing.com ■ Happy birthday Google www.google.com/tenthbirthday/

Saturday, January 31, 2009

life! 23

SOCIETYDIARY YOUR STARS

With Cassandra Nye

For the week starting February 2 AQUARIUS (21 Jan-19 Feb) Forging ahead with a plan is helped by a dynamic aspect from Mercury, allowing good communications on all levels. There is a chance that you are able to progress so much that you leave others behind. Slowing down long enough to include them again is well worthwhile. PISCES (20 Feb-20 Mar) This week starts off with some frustrating moments that really are left over from last weekend. It will take a few days for the effect of Mercury the messenger to reach you. When this happens things seem to slip into place without much effort where you were struggling before. ARIES (21 Mar-20 Apr) There are messages of friendship and love as this new week begins. Mental Mercury brings sparkle to communications once again and loving Venus warms your heart. Using your imagination fires you with romantic thoughts and possibilities which you can enjoy following up. TAURUS (21 Apr-21 May) Mercury brings the good news this week that your dreams are alive and kicking! The only thing that can limit your potential now is a negative train of thought. GEMINI (22 May-21 June) Independent thinking brings inspiration and channels your energy. There is no doubting your ability to get things done when in this frame of mind. Although the big picture can be seen, it is best to approach it in small chunks. CANCER (22 June-23 July) Romance is in the air but the fruit that is offered may be forbidden and therefore off-limits. Yes, temptation is all around but that doesn’t mean that it is a problem. Flirt, dally and remind yourself of the joys of being human. LEO (24 July-23 Aug) With energy and a spirit of adventure you enter this new week. Mercury the messenger runs alongside Venus to bring glorious visions. Not only do dreams seem possible, but they are exceeded by your imagination. Have fun when the chance is there and work hard when it is needed. VIRGO (24 Aug-23 Sept) With Mercury the messenger back on your side, communications of all kinds are brighter and clearer. On the work front, exciting developments begin. There are changes ahead and some of them may not be to your liking. LIBRA (24 Sept-23 Oct) Waiting for someone to make a decision, possibly on an emotional issue, can be upsetting. Take care, Libra, for pushing too hard for what you want may see someone run in the opposite direction. Venus will temper any outbursts with compassion and so there is every reason to avoid them in the first place. SCORPIO (24 Oct-22 Nov) Jumping into new situations seems unavoidable this week. So much is happening so quickly that there is hardly time to think, therefore it is crucial that any big responsibilities fall to someone else. Who set this particular ball rolling? Perhaps it should be them? Use your intuition and instincts if pushed to think on your feet, for some information may be late coming. SAGITTARIUS (23 Nov-21 Dec) Mercury the messenger is allowing clear and bright communications, so any recent misunderstandings can now be put right. Indeed, they may even sort themselves out. When it comes to finances, which are important, there is a need to work with someone else to a common goal. Two heads really can be better than one when it comes to generating cash. CAPRICORN (22 Dec-20 Jan) Seek to make improvements in your current situation rather than trying to escape from it. Although you may have felt recently that there was no way forward, things have changed. Others are more realistic and may not expect so much from you, or you from them. This lack of expectation is poor in the long run but can ease stress in the short term.

Helen Kay, Jacqueline Mutch and Sue Stephens

Gary Pretty, Philomena Cribbin-Dunne and Colin Shrive

Rev Augusta Gibrill, The Mayoress of Blackpool Julia Massey, the Mayor of Blackpool Coun Mary Smith and Mann Gurung, Gurkha Restaurant proprietor

he Blackpool Mayor’s charity fund received a boost from a dinner held at the Gurkha buffet restaurant in Waterloo Road, South Shore.

Len Curtis, Philip Dunne, Sally Naden and Vicky La Plume

■ To order any of the photographs on this page, please contact our photo sales department on 01253 361867

Josephine Catterall, Emma Clarke, Liz Rigby and Emma Whittaker

Jean Mildren, Beryl Radcliffe and Lynne Booker

Maureen Rowley, Christine Nuttall, Angela Reed and Jane Thompson

24 life! LOGON www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk

n evening of food and flowers took its inspiration for both from Scottish bard Robbie Burns. A piper was on hand to pipe in the haggis at the supper club which is a joint venture between Flower Design of St Annes and the Number One Hotel, South Beach. The floral demonstration was by award-winning florist, Jane Thompson, owner of Flower Design.

Denise Feber, Kathleen Mitchell, Julie Dell and Stephanie Ashton

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