ISSUE 19 ¡ £3 ¡ WINTER 2012
Gr8life Fashion
Coco Boutique
Gr8life Food
Langs Of Longton
Gr8life Celebrity
Mark of The Overtones
“The North West is still home to me�
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Scarisbrick Hall. Education for life. Beautiful autiful Beginnings autiful Day a Nursery ay r ry
Scarisbrick c Hall ck al all First Scho c ol cho o
New Ne ew Bor Born rn to Re R cep ceptio eption tion
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Begin Beautifully. Set in the expansive grounds of Scarisbrick Hall, our nursery enj en oys a privileged environment. From just a few months old in our self contained baby unit onwards, your child can en enjoy the perfect start in life, wherever they go from here.
From the earliest day a s of their education, our children ay benefit from an individual learning plan We W don’t believe in a one fits all system, so each child is assessed and a personalised plan is built around them.
Play a and learning are balanced and as children grow, ay w we w, ensure the curriculum is tailored to each child’s needs as part off our Early Yea Y rs Foundation Stage.
W also want children to understand the benefits of We new technology from an early age, so we encourage supervised laptop and ipad use on our hi-speed wifi network, together with plenty of fun-to-learn education.
01704 842222
www.beautifulbeginningsdaynursery.co.uk Set in the grounds of Scarisbrick Hall. Open 7am - 6pm.
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01704 880200
W c w
w
SCARISBRICK HALL
WINTER WONDERLAND
Sunday 11 December
register your child for our entrance exam Wednesday 25 January 2012
1pm-4pm
VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO
Tickets only ÂŁ8 - on sale now!
Scarisbrick Hall Middle School
Scarisbrick c Hal ck all al ll Coll o ege oll
Year 5 to Year 8
Y ar 9 to Ye t Yea Year ear 13
With careers advice from Year 7 and new courses such as catering & hospitality, sports studies and performing arts, we are investing heavily in our children’s future. We have already seen pupils pass their GCSE exams as much as three years early.
The third d tier off education is our new college. When it comes to GCSEs, it allows pupils in the College to start their exam courses a wh w ole year early. Our E3 progra r mme is ra excellent and more courses are coming on stream as part of our schedule of ongoing improvements.
Top quality education is backed by pastoral care and welfare, which have been acknowledged as “outstanding�.
Each student has their own personal mentor - we are dedicated to the best academic results as well as an holistic approach to producing a well rounded adult.
enquiries@scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk
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www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk
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ISSUE 19 · £3 · WINTER 2011
Gr8life Fashion
Coco Boutique
Gr8life Food
Langs Of Longton
Gr8life Celebrity
Mark of The Overtones
“The North West is still home to me”
PUBLISHER
Betty Drummond MANAGING EDITOR
I love this time of the year, the mornings are crisp and cold and the evenings are warm and cosy.
Laurent Saletto
I have had such great fun with the cover for this edition, I can’t tell you. I
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
wanted something to reflect the winter season perfectly and think I have found
Louisa Austin 01704 392 332 editor@gr8lifemagazine.com EDITORIAL TEAM
David Simister CONTRIBUTORS
Diane Thompson Cornelia Kaufmann PHOTOGRAPHY
it. It is a wonderful postcard image evoking childhood memories with its big red door and the family’s wellies left outside. This is the stuff winters are made of. Gr8life has its usual great mix of fantastic features for you including the unique shopping area Little Crosby offers us, which is The Well Barn. This barn goes back over 300 years and is home of several businesses and tradesmen, well worth a look. A staple now in our Gr8life diet is our restaurant review which highlights the
Martyn Snape John Swift
quality eateries available in this area. In this edition we take a look at the fantastic
ADVERTISING SALES
Langs of Longton, owned by local restaurateur Paul Lang and I have to say, he
sales@gr8lifemagazine.com
Chris Chew 01704 392 338 Sharon Murphy 01704 392 313 PRODUCTION TEAM
01704 392 320 production@champnews.com
Amy Houghton Emma Lyon Mike Rose David Atherton Ian McCabe
DISTRIBUTION TEAM
01704 392 345 distribution@champnews.com
has surpassed himself on every level. The decor is stylish and elegant, the quality of the food is second to none and it is sure to become very successful. I am also very proud to introduce our fashion shoot, by talented photographer John Swift featuring the exquisite tailoring currently on the rails at designer Southport’s Coco Boutique. Coco’s Collection is perfect to help you stand out during this year’s party season and all year round. Finally we have, alongside the cars, properties and local success stories, an interview with Mark from The Overtones. Mark, who is from the North West lets us into life as part of the über successful group and their unusual route to fame. I will now let you sit back, relax and enjoy what I think, and I’m sure you’ll agree, another fantastic edition of Gr8life.
PUBLISHED BY
Champion Media Group Clare House 166 Lord Street Southport PR9 0QA T: 01704 392 392 F: 0871 900 5678
Louisa Austin Associate Editor editor@gr8lifemagazine.com
© 2011 Champion Media Group. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care is taken, details, prices etc. are subject to change without notice and the publisher can take no responsibility for any errors or omissions whatsoever. Gr8 Life magazine
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5
9 Still Got A Hold On You
We talk to Opportunity Knocks star and Southport resident Bernie Flint about his time in the spotlight
13 Discover the Wellbarn
We take a look at a 300 year old stone barn in the heart of Little Crosby which is home to several independent businesses
17 Family Fun
Giggle’s Gym in Birkdale is the perfect place for children and adults alike. Gr8life talks to owners Gordon and Michele
21 Festive Fashion - Coco Boutique
Now the party season is here let the luxury boutique inspire you with its Winter collections
27 Luxury at Langs
Local restaurateur Paul Lang talks us through his latest venture out at Longton while Louisa Austin samples the delicious food on offer
31 Come Fly with Me
Daredevil David Simister takes to the sky in a Microlight. All in a days work..
36 Burscough Wharf
From canal side buildings to a bustling shopping area, Burscough Wharf has been completely transformed in recent years. Gr8life chats to two businesses within the complex
39 Treat your senses
Gr8life talks to Kate Harrison, owner of Senses Spa in Southport about her career, semi - permanent makeup and her future ambitions
43 Weekend in Wales 47 A conversion experience 51 A little piece of history
David Simister visits the Cross Foxes for a truly Welsh experience
Jenny and Antony Tyrer invite us into their magnificent barn conversion
An introduction to Granite House and the incredible Granite, Marble and Onyx stoneware you could have in your house
55 Give me a classic any day
David Simister explains his love of classic cars and why he would always have a classic over a new motor
61 Rhubarb and custard anyone?
Inside Issue 19
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65 69
Chef Stephen Burgess tells us about his catering business Rhubarb and Custard and his success at the Liverpool Food and Drinks Festival
A motor to be proud of
Gr8life takes a look at the new Skoda Yeti. You could be very surprised...
Pitch Perfect
We interview successful group The Overtones and find out about their unusual route to fame
73 Society
A roundup of all the recent society events in the area www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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Gr8life is YOUR quartlerly lifestyle magazine and is the perfect guide to local shops, events and businesses near you. As well as many happy readers who regularly get in touch to congratulate us on the magazine, we also have many very happy advertisers. Here is a selection of letters and e-mails we have received from clients who have had such a positive response from Gr8life they wanted to let us know‌
The article in GR8 life did exactly what I had hoped.
It was a very informative piece,
with
illustration
superb
and
creative
blurb.
The positive response that I have received from my advertisements in GR8Life has been an integral part of my strongly ‘referral-based’ business. The designs and advertisement
have been a true testament to
the personal touch that the GR8 Life staff represents. My business continues to flourish and my client base continues to grow. GR8 life is a magazine that my customers have kept and also passed onto their friends, so I can’t thank you enough. Claire Norris, The Organiser
Thank you so much for the wonderful article and pictures of the spring range that you did for my shop. I can honestly say that the positive reaction from the public has been beyond anything I could have expected or imagines with the boost to the business so good! The “girls� had a most enjoyable day “modelling� for your excellent photographer and have already volunteered their services should we be fortunate enough for a repeat performance. Many many thanks for a fabulous experience Lee Samuels, Virginia Lee
‘When we were looking at advertising options we researched many publications from around the area and concluded that Gr8life suited our needs the most. We are so glad we made that decision as our partnership proved very successful. We have had great interest generated from the three page feature which appeared in the Summer 2011 edition and we plan to continue to work with Gr8life in the future. Chris Harding, NFU Mutual Insurance
Being seen in Gr8life works. If you think you would like our team to visit you and give your business a real window to over 20.000 homes then give us a call on 01704 392332 today for an informal chat. 8
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Gr8 Life magazine
67,// *27
$ +2/' 21 <28
Churchtown local Bernie Flint is best known for his performances on the talent show Opportunity Knocks. The 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to the X-factor saw Bernie win an amazing seven times and launched him to stardom. Riding on his fame Bernie met and performed with many industry heavyweights while becoming a household name in his own right. Gr8 Life magazine
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9
³
The 70’s answer to the X-factor
“I first became interested in singing and
I never would have put myself forward
playing guitar when I joined the Royal Navy
and when I won I was gobsmacked! It
when I was 18,” Bernie explains. “Another
didn’t really sink in at first but when it
guy played and sang on the ship and I was
finally did I was walking on air!”
really impressed with him. I happened to
It wasn’t the only time he experienced
have a guitar I’d brought and he took time
that feeling as he went on to be crowned
out to really help me along. It was like
winner of the show for 12 weeks running.
having my own music teacher twenty-four
“It became a crazy time as we only had
seven! I then started singing in the folk
two channels so up to 20 million viewers
clubs, wine bars and nightclubs, including
tuned in every week to watch the show.”
The Sands in Ainsdale and Toad Hall. They
The enormity of Bernie’s popularity was
were great places to try out new songs
felt by everyone but Bernie himself. “After
without being under pressure plus they
3 weeks on the show Hughie Green asked
supplied me with free drinks!”
if my career had taken off. I said no and
It was at The Sands Pub that Bernie
he couldn’t get his head around the fact
got his big break when the manager
that I had no manager so he organised for
Joan decided to enter him into talent
me to meet and sign with International
competition Opportunity Knocks. “It was
Artistes.”
a complete surprise when she informed me I was going to Manchester to audition.
10
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³
“When the show finished I went straight onto Top Of The Pops to perform. One day
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
³
At one point I couldn’t walk down the street without having a crowd gather I was watching David Soul on my TV and the next I was singing along side him! It was crazy!”
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Bernie now works on the cruise ships entertaining his loyal fans and says,
Bernie, however, wasn’t ready for the
“It started when I took my family on a
changes that came along and found it
working cruise for Air-tours. It was a
difficult to adjust to fame. “At one point
fantastic holiday so I started to do two or
I couldn’t walk down the street without
three a year and then it just took off. Now
having a crowd gather, it happened
there is so much work I could be away
overnight. I didn’t feel I warranted all the
all year, although that will never happen
attention so it was strange and I never got
because I love my family, golf and tennis
used to it. They say you’re only as good
- in that order, although my wife might
as your last performance so every time I
disagree with that!
perform I still have a little panic attack!”
Gr8 Life magazine
³
meet the great man himself.”
When asked what he feels is his greatest
Bernie rubbed shoulders with many
achievement Bernie simply replies, “I think
famous names over the years including
the fact that I’ve been able to make a
with Bill Anderson and The Drifters, both
good living and provide for my family. He
of whom he toured with, David Soul, Billy
continues, “As for other highlights, having
Conley, Jimmy Tarbuck and Tony Christie. I
a hit single must be up there and shooting
was also invited to a golf event in Portugal
3 under par gross at St Annes Old links
hosted by Henry Cooper and I managed to
golf club is definitely up there!
11
1103471
Maximise your potential by promoting your business here Call Sharon on 01704 392313 today
S LQGG
1104550
1103915
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Discover the
Well Barn Little Crosby
The Well Barn is a beautiful little shopping area in the heart of Little Crosby, featuring local, established businesses. Set in a beautiful barn over 300 hundreds years old there are several little The Wellbarn is situated on Little Crosby Road, Little Crosby Village, Liverpool L23 4TS.
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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shops waiting to be discovered....
13
Harkirk Gallery 0151 932 1707
www.harkirkgallery.com
EDGE Conservation Restoration Services 0151 924 0447
Corinthian Furniture 0151 924 4499
EDGE Conservation-Restoration Services is a Liverpool-based business dedicated to the conservationrestoration of ceramics, glass and related materials. Owner Lynne Edge, who established the building at the Well Barn in 2008 says, “We have over 19 years experience restoring pottery, porcelain, glass and stone objects from antiquity to the present day. No job is too large, too complex or too small; whether it is a single treasured family heirloom, a seventeenth century Chinese porcelain dish or large public ceramic and glass collections. We also offer specialist mount making, object display and exhibition installation services.” In 2002 Lynne gained her Accredited Conservator-Restorer status and is the only professional ceramics and glass conservator-restorer with this qualification in the northwest of England. Her clients include local, regional and national museums, universities, major auction houses, The National Trust, English Heritage, private collectors, borough councils; churches, insurance companies and of course, the general public!” She adds, “I have lived in Crosby for over eight years and had visited the Well Barn on numerous occasions before establishing my business here. Since finishing my training it was always a dream of mine to establish my own business and the location here at the Well Barn was perfect.”
Corinthian Furniture specialise in the highest quality bespoke cabinet making and are the only BAFRA (British antique furniture restorers association) members in Merseyside. The company, owned by Neil O’Brien and Andrew McLoughlin, make handmade furniture, kitchens, bedrooms and studies, and restore furniture from our workshop. Andrew says, “The skills we use are marquetry, gilding, carving wood-turning and traditional polishing as well as modern finishing. From school we both went into traditional furniture apprenticeships and combined we have over forty years experience.”
www.corinthianfurniture.co.uk
www.edgeconservation-restoration.com
Harkirk Gallery which opened in September of this year is a family enterprise run by four sisters, Jo, Mary, Janet and Anne, who have always had an interest in art. One is currently living in Scotland and successfully exhibiting in local galleries as well as Harkirk Gallery. The success she has had with exhibiting these works instigated the setting up of a rural gallery close to home. The gallery features a variety of leading and emerging UK artists including original paintings by amongst others Marion Drummond, James and Jacqueline Orr, Jonathan Shearer, ceramics by Ostinelli and Priest, Jane Layton and Diana Tonnison and handmade glassware by Stuart Akroyd. The Gallery also offers exclusive and limited edition prints. Jo says, “We have created an exciting exhibition with something for all tastes and welcome anyone to come and browse the works in a relaxing and friendly environment. Janet adds, “The Well Barn is a quaint collection of historic farm buildings in a delightful country setting and the other businesses provide a perfect complement for our gallery therefore making it an ideal choice for our premises.”
14
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The Upholsterer 0151 924 7193
The Upholsterer specialises in the re-upholstery of traditional and modern furniture and the restoration of antique upholstered furniture including three piece suites, chairs and dining room chairs. After leaving school at 15 years old Owner Wayne Hawksworth began a four year apprenticeship with Guy Rogers, a well known Merseyside furniture manufacturer and qualified as an upholsterer receiving a higher qualification namely a F.T.C. Wayne says, “ I love the area as I can enjoy a calm relaxing atmosphere with a traditional setting within the historical village of Little Crosby.”
Gr8 Life magazine
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AccessoriesOnline.co.uk 0151 932 9806 www.accessoriesonline.co.uk
AccessoriesOnline.co.uk has a fantastic selection of jewellery from leading designers, including Cath Kidston, Karen Millen, Lola Rose, Alex Monroe and Disney Couture. Taking inspiration from the catwalks they offer their customers a wide choice of ontrend looks to suit all budgets, styles and occasions. Customers can browse and shop online at www.accessoriesonline. co.uk or visit the shop in The Well Barn. AccessoriesOnline.co.uk was founded in early 2004 by Victoria Hesketh with a capital investment of just £50 and a passion for designer accessories in evidence on the catwalks but not on the high street. Starting initially as a sideline while lecturing make-up artistry at a Merseyside college, Victoria quickly found demand for exquisite jewellery pieces from leading designers. Using her knowledge of catwalk trends, key colour ways and collection inspirations, she was able to create an online collection that cherry picked the season’s best pieces for her online clients. Victoria initially ran the business from home, but in 2008 she made the decision to open a shop and went on the search for new premises. She says, “When I saw The Well Barn I knew it was perfect. The stunning rural setting and shop space within an 18th century converted barn with solid oak floors, authentic stone walls and a beamed ceiling with a dramatic candle chandelier was the ideal location!”
Well Being at the Well Barn 0151 924 4642
www.wellbeingatthewellbarn.co.uk
Elaine Orrett who owns Well Being at The Well Barn blends a holistic therapy centre with a gift shop and has been at the Barn for four years. She says, “I have been practising holistic therapies for 16 years in the Crosby area. I offered Reiki and Indian head massage from Crosby Physiotherapy in College Road and have visited Japan twice to further my knowledge of Reiki. I absolutely love The Well Barn! The lovely old stone barn exudes such a friendly and peaceful energy, which exactly suits the eclectic mix of things that I do here and many people comment on how they feel calm and relaxed just by standing in the shop! Elaine offers a large range of holistic therapies, including Reiki, gastric band hypnotherapy and past life regression and also offers facials using exclusive Caribbean Essentials products. The shop stocks a wide range of gifts including jewellery, essential oils, incense, crystals, Buddhas, angels and much more. Elaine adds, “I also run training courses in Reiki, EFT, animal healing, crystal healing and healing with sound. There are also regular weekly classes in African drumming and psychic development. If you are looking for something a little bit different in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, then you should definitely pay us a visit!” 15
Ruby Tuesday’s
The Upholsterer
NOW Vintage Clothing OPEN A unique collection of
First Clas Class Work by Qualified Craftsman Proprietor: Wayne Hawksworth F.T.C.
timeless affordable fashion... •Fur Coats & Fur Hats •Evening Wear •Bags & Accessories
Well Being at
The Well Barn Holistic Therapy Centre & Gift Shop
Opening Times Tuesday - Saturday 10-4.30
THERAPY OF THE MONTH
GASTRIC BAND HYPNOSIS
THE WELL BARN · LITTLE CROSBY ROAD LIVERPOOL · L23 4TS 0151 924 4642
HARKIRK GALLERY
Have fun at our new
1103925
• Holistic Therapies • Reiki Courses • Buddhas • Incense • Crystals • Aromatherapy Oils • Singing Bowls • Yoga • African Drumming • Jewellery • Psychic Development Classes • Past Life Regression • Caribbean Essentials Luxury Facials • Moonstone Mind, Body & Spirit Festivals
22 Sefton Street, Litherland 07711819882
1104526
!!
The Well Barn Centre Little Crosby Village • Liverpool L23 4TS Telephone: 0151 9247193
Come and visit our beautiful location showcasing both paintings and applied art by established and up and coming contemporary artists from around the UK.
1103475
1103472
Re Upholstery and Recovery Cushions Antique Restoration 40 years experience
The Well Barn Little Crosby Road, Little Crosby Liverpool L23 4TS Tel: 0151 932 1707 www.harkirkgallery.com
PARTIES • • • • •
1103673
Come and party at Giggles! Party Range from MAKE A PIZZA MAKE A BEAR PAMPER PARTIES per child TEDDY BEARS PICNIC One FREE visit per month for a year for the Birthday Child*
£6.50
Indoor Soft Play Centre from £2.95 per child
For reservations call 01704 560077 • www.gigglesgym.co.uk *T&Cs apply 51 Weld Road, Birkdale, Southport PR8 2DS
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FAMILY FUN! Children’s play centres are not normally places that parents
“When we had children ourselves we started visiting play centres as customers and thought that they were a great place to
can relax and unwind but
meet friends and the children loved them,”
somewhere to tire the children
explains Michele. “However, not enough
out so bedtime is a little easier!
thought seemed to go into looking after the adults and thinking about the experience from their point of view. Hence the idea of
However, Giggles Gym in
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Having grown up in Formby, Michele, who
Birkdale hopes to change this
previously worked in the car industry, wanted
and Gr8life talks to owners
to move back to the area and they now live in
Gordon and Michele May about
Birkdale with their two daughters Lorna and
the parent friendly concept.
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Giggles Gym.”
Erin. Michele says, “We love the area and are so pleased we moved, however Gordon was
17
travelling a lot with work and wanted to do
In 2009 the couple closed the centre for
something that meant he would be around
two weeks for refurbishment. This included
more to see the family. Our own children’s
a new toddler area, more adult seating, a
play centre seemed like the perfect idea.”
new lounge area, a new sports area, new
The couple first attempted to get
party rooms and a new kitchen. Gordon
planning for a site in Formby, but when
and Michele also consider their café one
that wasn’t possible decided to buy
of the most important elements at Giggles
an already established playcentre and
Gym and as Michele explains, “We are very
change it to Giggles Gym. “We wanted
proud of our kitchen staff, who work to the
somewhere inviting where everyone could
highest standards and we were delighted
‘enjoy playtime’ their way, whether that
recently when an unannounced inspection
was dancing in the disco area with their
by Sefton Food Hygience Inspectorate
children, catching up with friends or
awarded us a 5 stars rating again. The
having a relaxing coffee and cake on the
highest possible rating!” She adds, “We
couch with a good magazine.” She adds,
have introduced a new menu which offers
“To look after the adults we make sure we
good quality, well priced food, made with
have plenty of seating, a clean and fresh
locally sourced ingredients where possible
environment and good line of sight to help
as that is very important to us. We support
you see the children easily. We also have
local businesses whenever possible and so
newspapers, plenty of magazines and many
our meats and cheeses come from a local
catalogues so you can plan your Christmas
Birkdale supplier and our cooks simply call
shopping and free Internet access so you
Stanley’s Fruit and Veg round the corner and
can order it too!”
they pop in with what we need! Also, The
18
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Gr8 Life magazine
Dutch Bakers in Birkdale supply our bread
and aprons to make their own pizza, which,
and some of the cakes. We make sure there
while they play, is cooked in our pizza oven
is a good balance of healthy options and
and brought back in their personalised box,â&#x20AC;?
treats from fresh salads, homemade soups,
Michele says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The make a bear parties are
fruit pots and hidden vegetables in the
also great and children leave with a great
childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu to bacon and brie paninis
quality soft toy and a t-shirt for their bear
and freshly baked pizzas.
that they have decorated.â&#x20AC;?
As well as all this Michele and Gordon
In the past Giggles Gym have supported
refuse to scrimp and so, inspired by popular
Claireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House Hospice by holding a fund
coffee shops, they use only â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;premier cruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
raising Butterfly Tea party and are looking
coffee beans in their range of freshly ground
to introduce other activities and additions to
coffees. Michele says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We get many Dads
the play structure. Michele adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope
coming in at the weekend for the bacon
that what makes us different is the focus
butties, good coffee, the papers and car
on the adults experience as much as the
magazines!â&#x20AC;?
childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so that everyone, not just the kids,
Giggles Gym also offers themed parties, perfect to celebrate a little ones birthday
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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can enjoy playtime.â&#x20AC;? For
more
information,
prices
and
including pizza parties and make a bear
availability please call Giggles Gym on
parties. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Children can put on chefs hats
01704 560 077
19
Thinking about Cosmetic Surgery? ...then come along to one of our Open Evenings!
If you are thinking that surgery is the right choice for you and would like to talk to someone about your options, Renacres Hospital offer FREE ten minute consultations at the Cosmetic Open Evenings. Renacres Hospital provides access to a wide range of surgical and non surgical treatments all performed by leading plastic surgeons. Please visit www.renacreshospital.co.uk for Open Evening dates in the New Year. Places are limited, to book an appointment, please call:
01704 842 010 Renacres Hospital, Renacres Lane, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 8SE. 1104123
Your favourite lifestyle magazine is published every quarter and perfectly reflects your changing moods through the seasons. Now you can treat someone special with a gift of an entire year of Gr8 Life … delivered by post, through their door, before the magazine is on the streets. You’ll be guaranteed the first ‘read’ of this much acclaimed magazine and be assured that you’ll enjoy a whole year for just £9.99 UK post paid. Such a thoughtful gift … why not treat yourself?
AUTUMN 2010
1099132
Be first to receive the next edition
ISSUE 14 £2.50
SOUTHPORT
Famous faces from the past FORMBY
Stunning property BURSCOUGH
Antique buying SOUTHPORT FLOWER SHOW REPORT
Flower-tastic event SOCIETY • HOMES • FASHION • CARS • SPORT • EVENTS • ANTIQUES
ISSUE 13 £2
SUMMER 2010
! SOUTHPORT
Famous faces from the past ! FORMBY
Stunning property ! BURSCOUGH
Antique buying
! WEDDING SPECIAL
A day to remember SOCIETY • HOMES • FASHION • CARS • SPORT • EVENTS • ANTIQUES
ISSUE 16 · £3 · SPRING 2011
DISCOVER
Churchtown On the ball in Southport
Doctor Fish
in Crosby Gr8 Life big shoot
Virginia Lee
Marco Pierre White EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
“Why I am in Aughton”
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ISSUE 15 · £3 · WINTER 2011
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GR8 LIFE MAGAZINE, CHAMPION MEDIA GROUP, 166 LORD STREET, SOUTHPORT, PR9 0QA.
Festive Fashion Coco Boutique
The party season is here and there is nothing better than to throw on a glitzy party dress, a warm winter coat and walk out of the house feeling a million dollars! In our Winter fashion shoot we are featuring Coco Boutique which, with its large selection of beautiful dresses and quality y o m & Rub Co a t b y D D& G Blouse by y b s Legging y b u R & D om a in G y b ts Boo
fashion, can help you on the road to Christmas glamour. When Southport boutique Garbo closed a few years ago many customers from around the area wondered what on earth they were going to do.
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Coat by Matthew Williamson Boots by Gina Leggings by Dom and Ruby
Dress by Halston Herita ge Shoes by Gin a
Dress by Byblos Bag by Michael Kors Shoes by Gina MODELS
Sarah Marsden and Megan Gilbert PHOTOGRAPHER
John Swift 22
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The shop had many loyal customers and exclusive brands which were hard to obtain unless clients were prepared to travel. However, Garbo manager and buyer Nicola Johnson saw an opportunity and in 2008 opened her own boutique in the beautiful Grade II listed Wayfarers Arcade in Southport. Along with her daughter Megan she provides luxury fashion and top designer names which have filled in the void that Garbo left. Nicola, who has over 30 years experience working in the fashion industry, adds, “All the customers were desperate for somewhere to shop when Garbo closed. I knew many of them very well and knew I
would
loyal
have
a
customer
base if I opened somewhere,” Nicola jets
off
capitals
regularly to
Milan,
fashion Paris
and New York to check out the latest trends, buy
Coat by Juicy Couture Jeans by Hudson Bag by Michael Kors Shoes by Gina
stock and discover new designers. She says, “We are constantly looking at new designers to include in the shop and love featuring British talent.” Nicola is always reinvesting in new brands and so the stock in the boutique changes on a regular basis to encourage new trends and designers. As well as pieces which are bang on trend there are also many classical cuts and designs perfect for a more elegant look.
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Co a t b y DV F Bag b y B ub a L e ath e r legg ings by A m en Sh o e s by Gin a
One new range Nicola is especially excited about Poupette St Barts, which specialises in beachwear. 23
Dress by Megan Fabulous Scarf by Matthew Williamson Shoes by Gina Leggings by Amen
Dress by Halston Heritage Bag by Buba Shoes by Gina
Dress by D& G Bag by Buba a Shoes by Gin
Juicy Nightwear
Coming up to Christmas â&#x20AC;Ś Coco Boutique will have a large selection of gifts including Creed fragrances for men and women, Juicy nightwear and Juicy makeup bags. There is also a gift wrapping service if your wrapping talents leave a lot to be desired! 24
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“Many customers come to me in the Winter time looking for Summerwear to take on cruises with them,” Karen adds.
“A lot go
away at Christmas and so this range is perfect for them. There is a selection Co a t b y Blau er Leggin g s by Hudso n Sh o e s by Gin a
by on Heritage y Buba by Gina
of Kaftans and gorgeous outfits to put on over your swimwear and so perfect for a hot holiday away!” The
boutique
has
also
launched a website which showcases all the clothing available in the boutique. Nicola adds, “We have clients from all over the place including London and the website is a great way for them to order clothes without having to travel and see us. Sometimes we feature really exclusive labels which have sold out or are difficult to find and with a touch of a button they can check Coco Boutique and see if we Dress by Tibbi Shoes by Gina
have it in.” For more information please ring Coco Boutique on 01704 513393 or visit their website at www.cocoboutique.co.uk.
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Sunday Lunch
2 Courses ÂŁ10.95
Early Bird
Tues-Sat 5.30-9.30pm 2 Courses ÂŁ10.95 3 Courses ÂŁ14.95
Full A La Carte
Contem dining in luxuriou porary, relaxed s surroundings
menu available
Live Entertainment
every Friday & Saturday
FOR RESERVATIONS TELEPHONE 01772 611766
Also, why not try some of our other restaurants?
21 Stanley Street Southport PR9 0BS 01704 501414
1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 Lord Street Southport PR8 1RP 01704 546111
46 Botanic Road Churchtown 01704 507977
1104332
48 Botanic Road Churchtown 01704 212400
1103917
Mon-Sat 5pm-10.30pm Sunday 12pm-9pm
The Dining Rooms offers you the very best, fresh ingredients, in exciting combinations with sauces and flavours and superb presentation, to make a unique dining experience. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a full selection of drinks available from the bar and an extensive wine list. You can also choose from our exciting speciality desserts, coffees and liqueurs. Dining Rooms Restaurant is open to the public each day from Tuesday to Sunday for lunch from 11.30 to 2.30 and for dinner from 5.30 to 9.30. On Sundays we are open from 12.00 until 5.00pm. Special live entertainment evenings occur throughout the year and the restaurant is also available for private functions by arrangement.
Southportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award Winning Italian Restaurant
www.millerandcarter.co.uk
ENJOY A BOTTLE OF WINE ON US AUTHENTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT
EXPERTS IN STEAK
Volare is the latest Italian restaurant open in Southport. The idea is to offer the authentic italian cuisine and atmosphere in their simplicity.
At Miller & Carter we like to think we know a bit about steak â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re famous for. Join us at Miller & Carter Parbold before 10th February and enjoy a free bottle of wine when 2 adults dine from our main menu.
We have an extensive menu aand wine list to accommodate all sorts of clientele, or design a menu to suit your party booking.
Miller & Carter Parbold Parbold Hill, Parbold, Wigan, WN8 7TG. Tel: 01257 462318 Food served: Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thurs: Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10.30pm, Fri & Sat: Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11pm
Free bottle of house wine when 2 adults order a main meal each from our Main Menu
1104336
â&#x20AC;˘ A la Carte Menu â&#x20AC;˘ Lunch Menu â&#x20AC;˘ Early Bird Menu â&#x20AC;˘ Fish Menu
A COMPLIMENTARY BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE WHEN 2 ADULTS DINE Terms and conditions:
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
1. Voucher only valid at Miller & Carter Parbold until 10th February 2012, not valid between 16th December 2011 and 2nd January 2012. 2. A free bottle of house wine when 2 adults order a main meal each from our Main Menu. 3. One voucher per two adults, per visit. 4. An adult main course excludes Starters, Desserts, Daytime Menu and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Menu. 5. This voucher cannot be exchanged wholly or partly for cash. 6. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, discount or privilege. 7. Vouchers altered, amended, defaced or copied are invalid. 8.!"#$!%$&'(')*!)+!,#$!-.*./$0!'(!1*.23
Tel 01704 546232 Mobile 07796 866936 www.italianrestaurantsouthport.co.uk
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(CLOSED TUESDAY)
1103476
613 Lord Street, Southport PR9 0AN
(NQNKR :M (:G@L
Langs of Longton is the latest addition to local restaurateur Paul Lang’s growing portfolio and has only been open three months. Gr8life’s Louisa Austin went along to sample the menu and quiz Paul on the secrets of his success. From the outside Langs of Longton looks
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selection of tradition and innovative dishes.
like any ordinary building, pleasant, but
I visited with my colleague Sharon on a
nothing special. However, when you walk
Friday evening, a perfect opportunity to
inside you realise that this is far from ordinary.
see off a busy week and relax while the rain
The boutique style décor, sumptuous furniture
poured down outside.
and beautiful artwork cry out luxury and you
I ordered the scallops to start and breast
almost feel ashamed to have thought it may
of duck to follow and Sharon opted for
be anything other than wonderfully opulent.
the black pudding and Stilton Fritters and
This doesn’t mean, however, that a down
then the shoulder of lamb. Both starters
to earth atmosphere and reasonable prices
were
have been sacrificed, nor that the menu is
arrived at our table and we couldn’t wait to
anything other than imaginative with a great
get stuck in.
beautifully
presented
when
they
27
Owner, Paul Lang only opened the restaurant three months ago and is already enjoying a roaring trade, testament to the quality of the food and atmosphere. Paul is certainly no stranger to the restaurant business owning several successful establishments in Southport already including Botanic Bistro and Langs Pasta and Grill. ‘My Mum always cooked all day, every day. I loved helping her in the kitchen,” Paul explains. “She died when I was 15 years old and I lived in bedsits for 4 years after that while washing up in kitchens. My first placement was at Dijona’s on Stanley Street where they took me on full time and I was so determined to do well for my Mum.’ After working at Reuters for 3 years, where I met my wife Claire, we both decided to go on alone and opened the Botanic Bistro. When we first took it over it was a 36 seater restaurant. Having worked hard for five years and the restaurant being so popular, Claire and I put all the money back into the business and decided to do a massive refurbishment and extended the restaurant upstairs to make it a 78 seater.” This proved to be a good move and Paul extended his portfolio from there. “When opening our first restaurant Claire and I decided
28
OX[XU\ DW ODQJV LQGG
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that all we needed to look after was the food,
outside of Southport? “This restaurant came
service and atmosphere. Working hard on
available at the right time and right place. I
a daily basis and doing long hours is what
have plans to open one more wine bar/tapas
we tried to achieve everyday. Even 15 years
bar and one more restaurant outside the
on I hope I haven’t taken my foot off the
Southport area.”
pedal. I am still striving everyday to make our
As Sharon and I were debating over
customers happy and give them what they
whether to stick the diets and have a dessert
want when entering any of our restaurants.”
Paul sidled over and said, “You have to have
Well, our meals were definitely something else, I had a generous portion of scallops -
Well it would have been rude not to and
Sharon’s lamb, while a large portion was
so we did indeed forget the diets and tucked
not too much. The menu was well thought
into a mini selection of the most popular Langs
out and each element, from the meat to the
deserts. Mouth watering chocolate brownie,
vegetables, to the cherry & amaretto glaze
lemon shortcake, sticky toffee pudding and
drizzled on the duck, complimented each
white chocolate ice cream were a few of the
other perfectly.
tastes in this fabulous selection. We left Langs
Paul added, “The thought behind the
of Longton feeling like we had eaten enough
menu comes after fifteen years of the Botanic
for a week but very impressed with not only
Bistro being open. Hopefully it has been tried
the standard of food but the atmosphere,
and tested and the menus seem to work
décor and pricing. Paul Lang has achieved
over the years which is why I mirrored the
the perfect balance on all accounts and adds,
Langs of Longton with the food served at the
“In the future I want to keep the high
Botanic Bistro. By sourcing local produce my
standards customers expect from any Lang’s
suppliers, some of whom I have been dealing
restaurant and will continue to work hard to
with for over 24 years, now know what I like
achieve this.”
and provide such good service as well as great quality ingredients.” So what made Paul open up a restaurant
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the ‘Assiette of the day, it’s lovely.”
For more information please call 01772 611766 or visit the website www.botanicbistro-langs.co.uk.
29
The George
Bramleys Coffee House
Duke Street, Southport
6 Church Walks, Ormskirk, L39 3QS
Well established in the Southport area, we serve a wide range of wholesome and traditional food. Whether just a snack or a full sit down meal, all our food is cooked to your liking. We welcome children, but ask that they be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Tel ¡ 01704
513314
Open ¡ Mon-Sat 9am-5pm ¡ Closed Sunday We accept all major credit cards ¡ Children welcome
30 EUDPOH\V LQGG
Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa
Botanic Bistro
Southport Old Road, Formby L37 0AB
Reservations ¡ 01704
875 699
30 ERWDQLF LQGG
Village Inn Pub & Restaurant Mark Square, Tarleton, PR4 6TU
Lakeside Bar & Grill
815959
966 6868
We are at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre off Cambridge Road
30 VHIWRQ OHLVXUH LQGG
1104541
HDWHULHV SDJH LQGG
We offer a contemporary British and Pan-European menu served within a relaxed, informal setting. All our food is of the highest quality, locally sourced and delivered fresh daily, prepared to order, ensuring a quality dining experience every time. Children are never overlooked and can enjoy their very own special menu.
To book, call ¡ 0151 1104540
We accept all major credit cards See our website ¡ www.villageinntarleton.co.uk
30
Crosby Coastal Park, Waterloo, L22 1RR
After a pub refurbishment, your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;new localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; serves a wide range of traditional pub food and offers a warm welcome to everyone â&#x20AC;Ś lunches are served 12pm-2pm and evening dinner 5.30pm8.30pm. On Sunday our restaurant is open all day. All our food is sourced locally and cooked fresh. Coffee and tea served from 10am daily.
30 YLOODJH LQQ LQGG
212400
We are open Monday to Saturday from 5.30pm until late
1104540
IRUPE\ KDOO LQGG
The Botanic Bistro was established in July 1998 and has since built a reputation of fine cuisine and excellent service. In 2004 an extensive refurbishment was successfully completed providing an upper tier in the restaurant to accommodate an ever increasing demand. Today the restaurant maintains its quality and service ethics.
Tel ¡ 01704 1104537
or call us for more information We are just 5 minutes from Southport
30
48 Botanic Road, Churchtown, Southport
The Restaurant at Formby Hall offers the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Total Dining Experienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Our reputation as one of the best fine dining restaurants in the region is led by the quality of our food. Our dinner and lunch menus are seasonal, beautifully balanced and of exceptional quality. Fine Dining at Formby Hall is a truly wonderful experience.
Tel ¡ 01772
578801
1104347
JHRUJH KRWHO LQGG
Tel ¡ 01695 1103877
Open ¡ 7 days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kitchens open 12pm-8pm We accept all major credit cards ¡ Children welcome
Located in the heart of Church Walks, Bramleys offers beautiful surroundings with an extensive choice of delicious cakes and meals. Our welcoming staff are committed to making your visit the most pleasurable. Whether out Christmas shopping or enjoying the sales popin for a welcome break.
Gr8 Life magazine 30
When David Simister was invited to try microlighting for the day our thrill seeking reporter was not going to turn it down. Here he reports on his adventure in the sky courtesy of the West Lancashire Microlight School. If you were buzzing down the Formby bypass the other day I’ll apologise if I shot past you a bit quicker than you were expecting. The cars and trucks might have shooting towards Liverpool at a fair old pace but for once, I really was flying past them. Literally. They might have hitting 70mph - and not a mile an hour more, officer - but hundreds of feet above, we were hitting speeds well above that, and in what seemed like the blink of an eye the glimmer of the farmers’ fields became the hustle and bustle of the docks on the shores of the Mersey estuary. The advantage we had was that we could see them both, at the same time, as part of one glorious panorama of an entire region. This is the joy of microlighting. If you’ve ever darted past Ince Blundell on a clear day and wondered what those funny things in the sky are then Richard Thornborough has the answer; they are the magnificent men and their flying machines on their way in and out of West Lancashire Microlight School, which offers anyone looking for a Christmas present with a difference to chance to see the north west from an entirely different perspective. “The location is pretty good with us being based near the coast - once you’re up, within a few minutes you’ve got a really spectacular view, where you can see North Wales, the Lake District, and inland towards Winter Hill. www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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31
We can even get permission to fly in controlled airspace, so you, could, for instance, see the waterfront at Liverpool from the air,” he said. “Aviation
captures
a
lot
of
people’s
imagination, but the cost of getting a pilot’s licence can be a bit expensive, so microlighting offers a very affordable alternative in what are very capable aircraft.” West Lancashire Microlight School offers a whole host of different aircraft you can take to the skies in but for the ultimate thrill I’d recommend a ride in the Rotax-engined Flexwing, which offers you the wind-in-the-face, bugs-in-theteeth thrills any aspiring Biggles needs to try out - and more importantly - a cockpit that’s cut away at the sides to let you look down and see the spectacular scenery once you’re up in the air. But as we soared through the skies somewhere above Seaforth I was delighted and worried in equal measure when I was offered an opportunity I wasn’t expecting; the chance to actually fly the aircraft itself. Eat your heart out, Easyjet! With the expanses of the Mersey to the right and the now ant-sized residents of Crosby to my left I wrapped my gloved fingers gingerly around the controls, just slightly terrified that I was about to plunge us both to a watery death, but I needn’t have worried. What I’ve anticipated to be the most frightening moment of micro lighting - actually flying one for yourself - is in fact the biggest surprise of the afternoon. 32
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If you’ve mastered the delicate of driving a car, then you’ll get the hang of one of these, because it’s a masterclass of intuition and easiness. Microlighting is like being taken for a ride on the back of a motorbike, only one where you can quite literally enjoy it on a completely different level. Far from being frightening, it is as thrilling as you want it to be, because the controls are pushbike easy to master and there’s far less to go wrong than on, say, an aeroplane. Even if the ridiculously revvy engine did cut out it’s hardly a life-or-death situation; you’d just glide your way down to another uneventful landing. Terrifying, heart-pounding, unpleasant and exposed - nope, going up in a microlight is none of these things, but you’re almost certain to take off your safety helmet to reveal the huge grin you only ever get from adrenaline-fuelled experiences. It is really, really good fun. At £60 for a 20 minute taster session it might not be the most conventional Christmas present you’ll ever give, but it’ll get the thrillseeker in your family absolutely hooked. You won’t regret it. For more information about taking a flight at West Lancashire Microlight School visit the school website at www.wlms.co.uk or call 0151 929 3319 to find out more. Pictures by Peter Charles Gr8 Life magazine
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advertising feature
Two heads are better than one 01704 880200 â&#x20AC;˘ www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk
Tony McCoy
Jeff Shaw
It's often said that two heads are better than one and what's even better is the fact that the two new Heads at Scarisbrick Hall have previous links with the school. Mt Tony McCoy is the new Head of First and Middle School, caring for children from Reception to Year 8 and Mr Jeff Shaw is the new Head of College, caring for students on Years 9 to 13. Two headmasters are part of the school's modern approach to progressive learning - instead of a
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conventional junior-senior school, Scarisbrick Hall School has created three schools, which will not only allow an extra year's GCSE course work but ties in with a philosophy designed to give the best opportunities to each pupil. Integral to this approach, personal mentoring ensures each child has tailored targets and a choice of extracurricular activities gives students a wide experience, allowing them to develop to the best of their individual abilities.
Burscough Wharf Burscough Wharf opened its doors in February 2011 and is a beautiful retail development centered around food and drink, arts and crafts and fashion. The shopping area is on the site of old canal side buildings which have been restored and regenerated in the last few years. Here Gr8life takes a look at two of the businesses which have chosen the picturesque Wharf as their home.
Masamuni With over 8 years experience in hairdressing owner Hayley Webster is a colour and cutting expert and is very proud to own her own salon. She says, “I have always saved and have never borrowed money so it was great when I could finally open my own salon. I love it at the Wharf as it is such a beautiful and tranquil environment.” All Hayley’s stylists are Schwartzkopf colour academy trained and are educated at Schwartzkopf training centres at least every three months to ensure that Masamuni leads the way with the latest in colour technology. Hayley adds, “Our new colour ranges Essensity and Senea offer a breakthrough for clients with any allergies and scalp sensitivity to finally be able to have the hair colour they want - with no ammonia and harsh chemicals Schwartzkopf saves the day! We also have two state of the art massage basins for ultimate comfort and relaxation and offer a wide range of back wash treatments, collagen conditioning treatments, extreme damage treatments.” Masamuni also offers a barbers service and a wedding hair service so all areas are covered! For more information please visit www.burscough-wharf.co.uk or ring 01704 894804. 36
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The Blue Mallard This modern restaurant is owned by talented, local chefs Chris Crowell and Matthew Holleran who thought the Wharf was the perfect place for a restaurant. Chris says, “ We loved the area and when the opportunity came up we just had to take it.” After finishing university in Leeds, Chris went all over the world to practice his culinary talents including America, France, Austria and Jersey, before coming back to his home town of Burscough. “I always wanted to come back but it was great to get experience from all over the place before settling.” Matthew trained locally and when Chris arrived back in Burscough they joined forces to create The Blue Mallard. Chris adds, “We love the atmosphere of the wharf and the fact that there are other businesses to bounce off. We compliment each other really well and together offer a fabulous shopping experience. With a menu boasting a whole host of regional foods and traditional dishes, which are changed regularly, The Blue Mallard sets itself apart from any other restaurant in the area. For more information please visit www.thebluemallard.co.uk or ring 01704 893954. Gr8 Life magazine
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Passionate about
great food?
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1103878
Our restaurant is located in the heart of Burscough Wharf with a menu boasting regional foods and traditional dishes refined to the highest of standards and given a contemporary finish
Bookings 01704 893954
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1104527
Treat your senses
Kate Harrison has achieved
gaining skills and experience ever since,
a huge amount since studying
Karen Betts founder of Nouveau Contour.
beauty at Southport College.
One of the leaders in the permanent
Here she talks to Gr8life about
many documentaries and makeover shows.
her Southport salon Senses
Kate says, “Semi permanent makeup is
Beauty Spa, her inspirations
from cancer or disfigurements. I have
and future goals.
been involved with the Linda McCartney
notably semi-permanent makeup with
cosmetic industry Karen has featured on
invaluable for those who have suffered
centre in Liverpool, advising patients on different treatments available to them.
Treat
your
senses
Gr8 Life magazine
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When she left school Kate embarked
At Sense Spa I use the latest technology
on a beauty course and, in her words,
to create defined eyebrows, eyeliner, lash
was taught by ‘the best’ - Mario del
enhancements, lips, beauty spots and fill
Guardio Mak. She learnt all aspects of
in skin disfigurements.’
beauty and attained the highly prestigious
Kate has always been involved in the
Dermalogica Student Of The year award.
beauty industry from when she was young
She adds, “I became very much aware of
as her mum, Bev, is qualified in alternative
the importance of customer service, and
therapies
to never stop learning new trends in the
massage.
industry. I now strive to be the best in my profession.”
including
reflexology
and
“Mum worked as a tour manager travelling the world and enjoying learning
Kate opened her first salon at the
about cultures mainly from the Far East
tender age of twenty one and has been
and India. Kate explains “She also travelled
39
to Sri Lanka, India, Hong Kong, Bali and Egypt where she picked up knowledge of different styles of massage and therapeutic oils which are often used in the salon.” Bev is extremely supportive of Kate and proud of her daughter and her achievements. “Mum has always supported me in achieving my goals. Now I have two small boys, Oscar and Samson and it is hard work juggling home and work life but I enjoy it!” Along with the semi permanent makeup the spa offers a wide range of treatments including
Dermal
rollering
using
snake
venom, luxurious manicures and pedicures, Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion facials and vagazzling, using only the finest Australian Lycon wax. A tanning room and brow bar are
Treat
your
senses 40
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also available and are perfect to visit before that special occasion. Kate adds, “A full range of relaxing treatments are also available from full body
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massage using exotic Egyptian and Sri-
those very necessary portfolios!”
lankan oils, hot stone therapies, reflexology,
To make herself apart from other
Indian head massage, lymphatic drainage
salons Kate has made sure that her staff
massage, hopi ear candling and many more
are fully trained, knowledgeable in their
customized treatments.”
areas of expertise and are constantly on the lookout for new therapies to introduce to their clientele. Kate adds, “The aim is to offer luxurious surroundings with warm, friendly and pampering atmosphere so that clients leave feeling and looking radiant. Treatments are always of the highest standard possible, using only the finest of products. We must always remember who is paying our bills and to put the clients needs first every time.”
Looking to the future Kate hopes to establish a training academy for beauty with VTCT - the industries leading training body and introduce a more hands on approach to beauty, while at the same time, still complete
Gr8 Life magazine
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For more information please visit www.sensesbeautyspa.co.uk, call 01704 885022 or pop in to the spa on 160 Duke Street, Southport, PR8 5DH.
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SENSES SPA
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Sense Spa is a five star establishment built upon its commitment for providing exclusive treatments in luxury surroundings to make you feel truly relaxed and pampered. All our treatments are carried out by experienced, fully qualified therapists using premium products from around the world to ensure a first class experience. Q Q Q Q Q Q Q
Threading Xtreme Christian Brows Brow Powdering & Strawberry Hot Waxing Wedding & Occasion Packages Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion Packages Male Grooming
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Be permanently beautiful with
.DWH +DUULVRQ 3HUPDQHQW &RVPHWLFV as seen on TV
Trained personally to the highest of standards by the founder of Nouveau Contour - Karen Betts, Kate is raising self esteem and restoring confidence to clients who travel from all over the North West.
Look younger and more beautiful with perfect eyebrows
"After my treatment with Kate, I feel 100% better about myself. I can not thank her enough. She has done a fantastic job. I love my new look!"
Both Men and Women who need or are experiencing the following, realise the positive results of permanent make up Specialist 3D hair/brows/eyeliner & lipliner with blush
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Telephone: 01704 885 022 to make an appointment 1103674
160 Duke Street, Southport PR8 5DH
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$ ZHHNHQG LQ :DOHV Only a couple of hours away across the
A Weekend in Wales As my photographer and I savour the
in darkness we knew it was time to tuck
delicate tastes we’re treated to a harpists’
another world
into the roasted pigeon and forget the
gentle notes, poetry read softly in English
wintry chill. Out here, in the wilds of the
and Welsh and even the chance to “punish”
Welsh mountains, it’s nice to know there’s
a Medieval miscreant locked up in some
somewhere you can escape the elements
nearby wooden stocks by throwing damp
and enjoy a feast, a pint of Snowdonia’s
sponges at him. It’s so much more than just
best real ale and a relaxing night’s sleep.
a meal, it’s an event in itself which a lot of
That somewhere, on a wet, windy evening
effort has gone into.
waiting to be discovered. David Simister drives down for the weekend
just outside Dolgellau, is the lovingly
to do just that
refurbished Cross Foxes Inn.
$
Welsh border is
With the slopes of Cader Idris shrouded
That’s
the
feeling
you
get
with
everything you encounter at a site which
and stays in
Dewi and Nicol Gwynne, the inn’s owners,
was a derelict pub less than two years
and their team have prepared a dinner with
ago. This little Welsh wonder comes with
the traditional
a difference on the night of my arrival; a
everything you’d expect from a charming
Welsh Cross
Medieval banquet in honour of legendary
hotel in the countryside but - and I reckon
Welsh warrior Owain Glyndwr. Packed with
more importantly - quite a few things you
roasted pigeon, braised rabbit, barley risotto
wouldn’t. It’s the things that make you say
and all the vegetables I could ask for, it’s
“Oooh, that’s a nice touch” that impress
both a delightful dish and only a small part
you most.
Foxes Inn.
Gr8 Life magazine
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of what you are feasting on, because what I
That’s definitely what Dewi and Nicol
have really been invited to indulge in is a bit
had in mind for the Grade II listed building,
of Welsh history and culture.
who said, “It’s taken us two years and has
43
been worth every second to see the former unloved and derelict pub now brought back to life. We’ve tried to rebuild the Cross Foxes into the kind of vibrant, warm, friendly and relaxing place we ourselves like to visit - a place which gives the warmest welcome to everyone who stops by. Our aim was to design it using the best natural local materials and blend them with a contemporary design to create a new concept for south Snowdonia - a Welsh Bar & Grill with Rooms. We hope to make the Cross Foxes a top destination of choice in the Dolgellau area.” It’s very much a place that makes the most out of being in what the couple call “an unbeatable location”, and the local flavour’s immediately obvious. You don’t, for instance, check into a room with an identikit number where you’re a number rather than a free man; instead you get to choose from individually-
costing anything up to £135 a night, they also
designed
come with a sort of instilled Welshness that
bedrooms
with
wonderfully
unpronouncable names like Cyfrwy and Moel.
always reminds you of which part of the world
While they’re all equipped with all the
you’re in. Thanks to the exposed slate walls,
creature comforts you’d expect from rooms
the timber slabs across the ceiling and the
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delightfully rural use of colours throughout, it’s
lying in their shadow. These days it’s primarily a
almost as though you’re actually sleeping in a
walkers’ paradise and a gateway to the summits
centrally heated forest.
of the highest Welsh peaks, but as a region rich
Last time GR8Life ventured over the Welsh borders it was to the picturesque town of
with culture and blessed with stunning scenery it’s well worth a visit in its own right.
Llangollen, a stone’s throw from the north
Pack your waterproof, jump in the car and
west, but the Snowdonian valley the Cross
escape to a winter wonderland with a flavour
Foxes nestles is in a more remote part of a Wales
you won’t find anywhere else in the UK; for
with a darker, grittier feel. It’s a landscape of
all its changeable weather, Snowdonia is a
foreboding peaks and steely skies, punctuated
mesmerising, magical place. No matter how
by twisty roads, narrow-gauge railways and
cold and wet you get, you know there’s always
enormous slate heaps which have entire villages
going to be somewhere that offers you a warm and distinctly Welsh welcome. The Cross Foxes have a number of winter events lined up, included a Festive Celebration Tasting on December 1, a Christmas Dining Experience on December 23 and a New Year Dinner on December 31. For more information and to get in touch with Dewi and Nicol go online to www. crossfoxes.co.uk or call them on 01341 421 001. You can also see more of the Cross Foxes by checking out our video on the GR8Life website at www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Gr8 Life magazine
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NFU Mutual
Advertising Feature
Telephone: 01704 512810 â&#x20AC;˘ The Edge, Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TE MUF Mutual in
Annabel Robson, sales associate
Southport pride themselves
at the Southport office says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We
on a personal, one to one
so understand the needs of our
service with friendly and
customers. We find that our clients
efficient staff to help you
we can provide that service. They can
make the right decision.
rest assured there is always someone
They can deal with your
talk to them.â&#x20AC;?
insurance, pensions and
live and work in the local area and
prefer to talk to us face to face and
on the end of a telephone who can The company started to insure people and businesses outside of
investment needs and
the farming industry in the 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
are proud of their local
and has gone from strength to
as Queenscourt Hospice, Autism
strength ever since. The local branch
Initiatives, Southport Lions and the
presence in the area.
#" "# # # "#""#! ## !##""# !#"" "# also supports many charities such
Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
Not everyone knows we do home insurance. We do. Call 01704 512810 for a quote or pop into the office to talk to our friendly team at NFU Mutual Office, Unit 7C, The Edge, Hoghton Street, Southport, Merseyside PR9 0TE We do right by you Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited. 46
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1103668
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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Barn conversions are very popular nowadays and there are many stunning examples around the North West. However, there is nothing quite like Jenny and Antony Tyrer’s beautiful Scarisbrick house and it’s hard to imagine that it started off life as an empty, unused shell, waiting to be turned into something magnificent. “We bought it from the carrot processing farm next door and set about developing it into a family home,” Jenny says. And develop they did with the end result being a five bedroom, two bathroom house, perfect to bring up a family. The property, which was originally built in the 1950’s has solid oak floors throughout, a fitted oak office and rooms bursting with features. The kitchen area is open plan and has a utility room off it so laundry can be done out of sight! “I love the kitchen,” adds Jenny, “probably because I spend so much time in it! It is the heart of the home and it’s nice to have the snug area as well in the same room. “I always had a clear idea of what I wanted including the utility room, where I can keep the washing machine and dryer out of view and I always wanted the open plan aspect.” The kitchen is filled with quality fixtures and fittings and all appliances are made by top German brand Miele. www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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There is under floor heating throughout as well and the house is surprisingly warm, whether the heating is on or not. “It is such a warm house,” Jenny says. “Even when there is no heating on or log burner on it retains the heat so well. I love that about it.” The project took eighteen months from start to finish, which seems like a remarkably quick time to complete such a fantastic property. “It felt like ages!” Jenny says. “We were staying with my parents at the time with the children and eighteen months felt like a lifetime. However, when I look back it was a relatively quick time to finish such a project.” The house has strikingly simple décor which leaves the beautiful features, such as the log burner in the hallway, to take centre stage. “I wanted the house to have a very simple theme but one which matched all the way throughout the house, Jenny says. “Everything is oak, all supplied by the same local specialist and the kitchen and bathroom floors are matching Travertine.” Along with the beautiful log burner, the solid oak staircase is one of the properties amazing features and has no need for a carpet. Couple the modern wood with the old original beams which come down from the upstairs ceilings and there is a stunning mix of originality and quality. 48
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The large window at the front of the house gives it the ‘wow’ factor, whether you are looking in from outside, or the inside out and even has electric blinds as it is too high for anyone to reach up. It is this height however, which makes it so striking. Jenny adds, “I love the window and as well as being a great feature it floods the house with light, even on a dull day.” The couple who are moving to be more central for work and the children’s schools are looking forward to handing over the house to someone who loves it as much as they do. “We have lived here for about six years now but it is time to move on. It was great to see it go from a barn to a beautiful family home but know it will be perfect for someone else to enjoy.” For more information on this house please call Chris Tinsley on 01704 512121 or visit the website at www.christinsley.co.uk. Gr8 Life magazine
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Save up to 1/2 price for a hot new look this winter Plus a FREE gas or electric fire on selected fireplaces for a limited time only • Over 40 displays from classic to contemporary • Specialist advice from the professionals • Incredible deals on central heating • A warmer home with smaller bills 1104346
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S LQGG
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OPEN Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
$ OLWWOH SLHFH RI KLVWRU\ Granite, Marble and Onyx are some of Mother Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best achievements offering durability with style and in the last few years, homeowners have realised this and the demand for it is now higher than ever. Each piece of stone or granite is unique and cannot be naturally replicated again, producing a piece of history which is millions of years old.
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51
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JUDQLWH KRXVH LQGG
Granite House in Banks have specialised in natural stone since they first opened in 1998 and have made their mark in the local area offering fantastic pieces at reasonable prices. “Our customers are by far the most important thing to us and we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver quality and service without compromise,” says Brian Johnstone, Customer Service Manager at Granite House. He adds, “We can explain everything and talk them through the processes which the stone has gone through to end up looking like a kitchen worktop or piece of art.” Far from simply supplying finishing materials the team at Granite house are often involved in sourcing art pieces from sculptures to individual translucent material as wall hangings. Brian and his colleagues have made several trips out to India, Brazil and Italy to source materials and so have been there right from the start of the process. “We travel regularly and are very hands on, sourcing the right material for a very demanding UK market means that you have to put yourself out there and see what’s available before the prize pieces are snapped up by our competitors across the globe .” Granite House are one of the only worktop manufacturers in the UK to be members of the Ethical Trading Initiative, constantly monitoring their supply chain to wheedle out unethical practices such as child labour. Brian adds, “We adhere to strict guidelines as laid down by the ETI to monitor these issues and was very pleased to report compliance year on year since joining in 2009. We consider it very important that all products we supply are ethically sourced and produced.” Behind a stunning showroom is a huge workshop full of top of the range machinery all shaping, cutting and buffing stone into beautiful pieces of functional material suitable for both domestic and commercial application. “If customers are interested in process
52
JUDQLWH KRXVH LQGG
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then we take them round to see the workshop
As well as stone being a popular material to
where they can view on-going projects
use on kitchen and bathroom worktops there
being finished by hand by our highly trained
are many other uses for it which, at first, may not
stonemasons, and show them exactly what
be so obvious. “A great modern way to display
happens to produce what is in the showroom.”
natural stone is to mount it on the wall. It is an
Brian says. “We have invested a huge amount
unusual place to make a piece stand out and the
of money in machinery and personnel so when
look can be really effective. Commercially it can
we buy stone from all over the world it comes
make a real difference to bars and clubs which
straight to the warehouse and is worked on
want something cutting edge and stylish. We
with the highest quality machinery and with
also carry a vast array of stock in internal and
the highest standard of care.” The company
external tiles and supply granite paving that is
credit their success, especially through the
ideal for a contemporary garden.”
recent recession, with being able to provide
With the company importing from all over
pieces which many other companies can’t
the world customers have the choice between
at extremely reasonable prices. Brian adds,
a huge variety of shades and colours perfectly
“Many customers come to us with requests
produced by Mother Nature and Granite
they have been told aren’t possible somewhere
House.
else. However, with our machinery, contacts and experience we can more often than not create what they want.”
Gr8 Life magazine
JUDQLWH KRXVH LQGG
For more information please visit www.granitehouse.co.uk or ring 01704 228574 53
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Guinea Hall Lane to S
out
Granite House
Petrol Station
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roundabout signposted BANKS
Sou
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1103670
classic GIVE ME A
any day
Our very own motor writer
“They don’t make ‘em like they used to, do they?”
stager I’ll always yearn for. My utterly irrational love of old cars,
David Simister
That, I reckon, is the question I’ve been
I reckon, has got to be down to growing
asked more times than any other about
up around the things; one of my earliest
has got a
the string of classic cars I’ve owned. After
memories was being slightly terrified by
more than three years of motoring mishaps
the thunderous roar my dad’s old Range
I’ll agree it’s true; they don’t make ‘em like
Rover makes when you fire it into life. More
classic cars, so
they used to. They make ‘em much better.
than 25 years later he’s still got it, and it
much so that he
If it’s unfailing reliability and build quality
still looks and sounds terrific. The woofle
you’re after, then buy all means try Toyota’s
of a Rover V8, like the growl of an Oasis
new Yaris.
record, is just one of those sounds I grew
penchant for
can have three at any one time. Here he tells Gr8life why they make him tick.
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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The Yaris is, by whatever measure you
up with.
use, a much better car than my trusty MGB
The thing is, I reckon, is that you
GT. It’s cleaner, comfier, more reliable, less
don’t have to be a car anorak like me to
familiar with branches of Esso and - dare I
fall in love with an old car. The Ormskirk
say it - quite a bit quicker. Yet give me the
MotorFest, for instance, attracted more
choice between the two and it’s the old
than 10,000 visitors when it took place in
55
the West Lancashire market town in August, and the vast majority of the visitors weren’t motoring enthusiasts. They were people from all walks of life, with all sorts of hopes and dreams, who understood the graceful lines of an E-Type Jag or the operatic bellow of an old Ferrari. Classic cars make you smile. My own classic of choice is my MGB GT, which was built badly by British Leyland in 1972 and painted in Harvest Gold, or Horrid Seventies Mustard as my other half calls it. It was in a sorry state when I first saw it, seized solid after spending years in the same Cumbrian garage. I could have invested my cash in a Mazda MX-5, the sensible person’s sports car, but I ended up smitten with a model that’s much older than I am. So I bought it anyway. Since then it’s needed a lot of time and money to return it to the road, and even after its tyres touched the tarmac again I’ve been treated to a string of niggles and breakdowns, which I wouldn’t have if I’d gone for the MX-5. Get behind the MG’s evocative Mota-Lita wooden steering wheel and turn the key, though, and you quickly forget about the glitches. It is a car best driven at dusk, when the twilight accentuates its delicate curves and the throb of the exhaust note reverberates through the country lanes. Bask in the warm glow of the backlighting of those wonderfully archaic Smiths dials, let the cool evening air rush in through the full-length sunroof and revel in how a motor that’s
56
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Gr8 Life magazine
nearly forty years old can be so much fun to drive. It’s not perfect but you can’t help warming to it. Parked up outside my favourite village pub, which is more often than not turned into a sort of impromptu automotive catwalk, it makes the Porsche Boxsters and Mercedes SLKs everyone else brings along look clunky and clumsily-styled. It is a Sophia Loren in a field of airline hostesses. Nor is it just a soft spot I’ve got for one old car; there’s an old car for just about every occasion, from the go-kart handling of the original Mini to the timeless beauty of the Austin Healey 100 or the sheer grunt you get from a Ford Capri. You might look at the wind and the rain outside and think it’s the wrong time to buy some automotive antique but it isn’t; get one now while prices hit their winter lull, get it done up and it’ll be ready for the spring. You won’t regret it. Thanks to tax breaks, cheaper specialist insurance and a wealth of knowledge and friendly banter available from the local clubs set up to support them, there’s no excuse not to try a classic car at least once. Like swimming with dolphins, visiting New York or seeing the pyramids, owning a classic car should be on everyone’s “to do” list. After all, they don’t make ‘em like they used to. Check out the GR8Life website for a video of David Simister’s MGB GT
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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57
Medical advances are Clinical studies shouldn’t be a scary
into his experiments. He carried out trials while at
concept - direct involvement with
sea, on board the ship Salisbury in 1747. Seamen
medical research is a rewarding
with scurvy were given the same general diet, but
experience and your contribution
this was supplemented with either cider, elixir vitriol (sulphuric acid), vinegar, seawater, nutmeg and,
could support others immensely
most importantly, oranges and lemons. In just six
and help shape the future of
days, patients who ate oranges and lemons were
medicine
fit for duty and thus it was concluded that scurvy could be prevented by citrus fruits as opposed to
The words ‘clinical research’ are commonplace in glossy adverts. Claims to reduce our wrinkles, turn back the years or make us look instantly younger are often taken as fact. We take comfort from the fact that beauty brands have put considerable time and effort into ensuring the products we choose for our beauty routine have been adequately tried and tested. However, when it comes to medicines, we never give much consideration to how a simple aspirin tablet or advanced chemotherapy has been made available to us.
other supplements. It was not until 50 years later that the Navy made lemon juice a compulsory part of the seafarer’s diet, and this was soon replaced by lime juice because it was cheaper. This is why British sailors, and later the British in general, were referred to as ‘limeys’ by the Americans. What are clinical trials? While clinical studies have advanced since the times of Nebuchadnezzar and James Lind, their importance and the vital role they play in the future of medicine is no less significant. Essentially,
Medical advances are
The history of clinical trials
Clinical research is far from a new concept, with the first recorded clinical trial being attributed to King
Nebuchadnezzar II in the Old Testament. Physician James Lind was however the first pioneer of clinical trials, as he was the first to introduce control groups 58
PHGLFDO DGYDQFHV LQGG
clinical trials enable the development of all medical
treatments for everyday ailments through to life-
threatening conditions. Far from being a scary concept, clinical trials operate in a highly regulated
industry. Before any medical treatment receives
a license, it must undergo stringent testing, and before any treatment can be assessed in humans www.gr8lifemagazine.com
re
1103706
on our doorstep it will have undergone extensive investigation in the laboratory. Prior to any clinical trial being
Burlington House, 3rd Floor, South Wing, Crosby Road North, Waterloo, Liverpool. L22 0LG
undertaken, approval must be sought from the
Each year, thousands of patients take part in
appropriate regulatory authorities and ethical
clinical studies at Synexus’ Dedicated Research
committees. In the UK, this is the Medicines and
Centres in Chorley and Liverpool. There are many
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
studies running throughout the year that may
and the Research Ethics Committee (REC). It’s
be of interest including potential treatments for
after the relevant scientific, regulatory and ethical
osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, insomnia, bladder
bodies have approved the protocol that clinical
and bowel conditions (such as OAB and IBS), high
studies in people can go ahead.
cholesterol and eczema.
How to get involved
Not all studies are paid, but some do reimburse
Synexus, a company focused on the recruiting
patients for their time and all reimburse patients for
and running of clinical trials, has extensive
any out of pocket travelling expenses. Participating
experience in late stage clinical studies, having
in a Synexus clinical study means patients receive
been involved in clinical research for over 20 years.
increased medical attention and may benefit from
During that time, thousands of heath checks have
medications that aren’t yet available to other
been performed and in 2010 alone, over 35,000
sufferers of their condition, while making a positive
people showed an interest in taking part in clinical
contribution to the health of future generations.
studies with Synexus. All health checks and studies take place at
If you are interested in finding out more about Synexus and the studies that are currently running
on our doorstep purpose-built Dedicated Research Centres across
at its Dedicated Research Centre’s in Chorley and
the country which are run and staffed by full-time
Liverpool, visit www.improvinghealth.com or
nurses and doctors. You are probably not aware
www.challenge-asthma.com
that there are Synexus’ Dedicated Clinical Research Centre’s located in;
24 Eaton Avenue, Matrix Park, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 7NA Gr8 Life magazine
PHGLFDO DGYDQFHV LQGG
Alternatively if you would like to talk to one
of our advisors please call either our Lancashire site on 01772 344620 or our Merseyside site on 0151 550 9951 quoting reference code 4750. 59
RECIPE
VĂŠritĂŠ at home CASSOULET TOULOUSAIN For four hungry people
INGREDIENTS
400g dried haricot beans 1 bay leaf and a few thyme sprigs 2 cloves of garlic crushed 1 celery stick sliced 1/2 large onion cut into quarters 8oz unsmoked streaky bacon cut into cubes 1 tablespoon butter 400g diced shoulder of lamb (or mutton) 4 pieces of duck confit (you can buy these in tins or use roasted duck leg) 6 Toulouse sausages (available from your butcher) 6 tomatoes (skinned and chopped) Herby breadcrumbs (small bunch of choppped parsley & 2 slices of white bread, crusts removed and whizzed up in a food processor)
METHOD
Put the beans into a bowl and cover with cold water. Soak overnight then drain and rinse twice (an important step.) Put the beans in a large saucepan with the bay leaf, thyme, garlic, onion quarters and bacon. Add two to three litres of water, bring to the boil and simmer for one hour. Heat the butter and brown the lamb shoulder in a frying pan Add the lamb, celery and duck confit (scrape off the fat) on the top of the beans in a large pan and push into liquid. Add the tomato and cook slowly for a further hour (simmer.) Brown the Toulouse sausages in a frying pan and add them to the casserole and cook for a further 30 minutes Remove the herbs. Strain the liquid into another pan and reduce the liquid, on a high heat, by two thirds. Remove the meat from the pan and layer it with the beans in a large casserole dish. Pour the liquid over so it just covers the meat. Sprinkle the cassoulet with the breadcrumbs and bake for 20 - 30 minutes (160c/315f/gas2-3). Serve straight from the casserole on warm plates. Serve with crusty bread for extra enjoyment.
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The talented chef hasn’t always wanted to work with food as he went to Southport College aged 16 to study graphic design. “When I had finished the course I decided it wasn’t for me and got a job in a high rise office in Bootle. “I was looking over Liverpool one day and thought, there is an exciting career out there for me, handed in my notice the same day and joined catering college.“ That signalled the beginning of not only a very exciting career but also an extremely successful one. After finishing his training he went on to work at several establishments
Steven Burgess is
UKXEDUE LQGG
celebrity chef Marco Pierre White’s The Swan
only 25, yet he has
Inn in Aughton. However, recently Steven,
still managed to pack
Wareing as one of his inspirations, decided to
more into his career
Rhubarb and Custard.
so far than many of
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
including the prestigious Malmasion and
who credits successful Southport Chef Marcus do it alone and formed his catering business “Using a team of professionally trained chefs I can deliver excellent results at a whole
us could hope to do
range of events, including buffets, canapes,
in a lifetime of work!
parties and banqueting,’ Steven explains.
corporate entertaining, weddings, dinner
61
“We use locally sourced produce & fresh ingredients and have a varied range of menu’s specifically designed to stand out from the crowd! We try and combine modern twists for the wow factor with classics and old favourites that everyone loves.” And so what makes Rhubarb and Custard stand out amongst other caterers out there? “Diversity. We pride ourselves on being able to cater for any requirements the client has. The experience and knowledge we all have allows us to take on any task presented to us.” Although Steven can turn his hand to any type and style of food he does have his favourites. “Personally I love cooking Asian and Italian food due to the respect given to the ingredients. Italian is so simple but they let the ingredients speak for themselves which personally I believe is the way food should be treated.” Although having great success with small events Steven’s real challenge came when he was contacted by SK Events about coming into the Liverpool Food and Drinks Festival. “No outside caterer had ever been allowed in due to it being a bar and restaurant based event however SK Events were happy with the level we operated at and we were granted access to be the first ever to be allowed in.” 62
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Although over the moon to have been asked it was very daunting for Steven and an event not for the fainthearted! “40,000 people attended over two days and to deal with that volume was very challenging,” he says. “We worked twenty hour days but it was very rewarding in the end. Afterwards however, there was no time to take a break and relax as Steven and his team were in demand! “We were then asked to cater for the awards dinner the week later with 280 guests attending, all who were chefs, restaurateurs and people involved with the industry. It was terrifying at the time but when I look back it was certainly a career highlight!” Looking to the future Steven’s main focus is for Rhubarb and Custard to grow and expand. He says, “I love what I do with Rhubarb and want to see it grow into the name of choice when catering is required for any event in the North West. I want to create fantastic events for happy clients!” When asked what his biggest achievements are so far, surprisingly, Steven doesn’t mention the food and drinks festival but goes one better. “Getting included in the Relish Merseyside & Lancashire Cookbook amongst the regions top chefs. I am the youngest ever to be involved out of the five or six books which they have released so far and only the second catering company to be featured in it. That makes me very proud.” Gr8 Life magazine
UKXEDUE LQGG
63
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Skoda have had a very mixed reception from us Brits over the last few years, but when David Simister set out to discover the car behind the badge
minersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; strike, East Berlin and Spandau Ballet. These are things which, along with
he realised there was more to their
Skoda jokes, belong
off-roader than you might expect â&#x20AC;Ś
of the early Eighties.
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
$ PRWRU WR EH SURXG RI LQGG
Legwarmers, the
back in the dark days
65
An admission; I’m not really old enough
badge on the bonnet, I honestly reckon, is irrelevant.
to remember any of
Having already won over rough ‘n’ rugged
those things, which is
off-roader types with the Scout four-wheel-
why I never thought the
drive version of the Octavia estate it was
one about the Skoda with the
only a matter of time before Skoda came
sunroof was particularly funny. I haven’t got
up with a real mountain goat of a motor
any Skoda jokes of my own for you but I’ll
and this, a distant relation to Volkswagen’s
instead share with you one of my motoring
Golf and Audi’s A3, is the result. Cute and
secrets.
challenging at the same time.
Leave
Checkpoint
your
Charlie,
preconceptions because
I
at
reckon
The best way to approach a Yeti is to
Skoda’s Yeti is the one of the best cars on
think of it not as a rival for, say, a small
sale in Britain today.
off-roader or a people carrier, but as a car
Someone clever within the Czech car
crafted especially with the needs of dog
company’s realised that we aren’t a nation
walkers in mind. A Golden Retriever, for
of sports car driving hedonists, zipping
instance, might well be man’s best friend,
along sun-kissed country lanes on the way
but he’s still a friend who slobbers a lot and
to somewhere nice. We are in fact a nation
enjoys nibbling car upholstery. That’s why
of IKEA addicts, of school run mums, of
the interior’s built sturdily out of lots of hard
Dad’s Taxi stickers and garden centre gurus.
wearing but tastefully chosen plastics and
We are especially a nation of dog owners -
leathers, which Fido is going to struggle
there are two million of us, remember - and
to ruin. His home from home - the Yeti’s
there are few vehicles in any price bracket
boot - is also commendably commodious,
as geared up to the task as the Yeti. The
although thanks to the Skoda’s high sills it
66
$ PRWRU WR EH SURXG RI LQGG
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
might take him a bit of a leap to get in. The Volkswagen-based Yetiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also been
Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the reason why youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not going
designed to conquer not racetracks but
to find hot hatch handling when you head
rutted bridleways and muddy backroads,
into the corners a tad too quickly, but both
because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inevitably the sort of rural
on the backroads and out on the motorways
backdrop Fidoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s owner enjoys. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me
the Yeti performs impressively enough. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
wrong; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a mudplugger in the vein of,
just a shame that with some of the sillier
say, Land Roverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Freelander but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been
options the version I drove cost almost
built toughly enough and given enough
ÂŁ22,000, which Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d rather spend on the
ground clearance to get you across most
optional four-wheel-drive system and make
obstacles without objections, and if you
it truly capable over tricky terrain.
really are heading for the great outdoors
The Yetiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not only the best car Skoda
then four wheel drive is one of its must-have
makes but I reckon itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got the measure of
optional extras.
MINIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Countryman, Nissanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Qashqai and
Clamber into the cockpit and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re
even the entry-level Freelanders, because
definitely not in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat of a jacked-
itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone for substance where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gone
up hatchback or an MPV with countryside
for style. Almost everyone who came across
styling cues; if a Land Rover Discovery went
the Yeti loved it for exactly the same reason;
on the Atkins diet, chances are this is what
if you have a dog and enjoy going for walks
it would feel like. Even though the version
in the muddy countryside, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to
I drove stuck to powering just the front
struggle to better the Yeti without resorting
wheels everything about the commanding
to much more expensive machinery.
driving position, the view along the bonnet and the defiantly diesel noise the 2.0 TDi
Gr8 Life magazine
$ PRWRU WR EH SURXG RI LQGG
engine makes screams pure off-roader.
Buy one and your Labrador is going to love it. Luckily, so will you.
67
Rosalind Fashions
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Just over a year ago British DooWop band The Overtones had no
is
in
extremely
Liverpool, down
to
earth considering he is
corner for them.
biggest
a member of one of the bands
of
the
moment. “We are just so grateful to have become
working together as painters and
as popular as we are,’ he
decorators until one day they
we are just doing what
were spotted by label Warner
says.
“Especially
we love.” singing,
when
Mark studied dancing
and
Brothers and the rest, as they say,
acting at performing arts
is history!
to the capital to try and
Gr8life was lucky enough to interview
the dancing route when I
band member and northerner Mark Franks recently about their tour, new found fame and fans.
SLWFKSHUIHFW LQGG
university
idea what was just around the They were rehearsing hard while
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Mark, who went to
school and then went make it big. “I went down came to London however I
have
always
been
passionate about singing and music in general. 69
It was here that Mark met band members
“Over the years we have been offered
Mark, Mike, Darren and Timmy and later
things and then had doors shut in our faces,”
Lachie and went on to form The Overtones.
Mark says. “People tell us they can do this and
It wasn’t all plain sailing however as Mark
that for us and then don’t so you do become
explains. “We were all trying to rehearse while
a little bit jaded. Because of this we didn’t
waiting on tables and doing other bits of
realise at the time what a big opportunity this
promotional work. It was getting to the point
was and what it would lead to.”
however where we were never together and
Although The Overtones success may feel
so couldn’t practice. We just weren’t getting
like it happened overnight to some people,
as far as we wanted with the band.”
it has been a long and sometimes difficult
Something had to give and so the band
road for the band. “It has been so long in the
members came up with a novel way of earning
making that it doesn’t really feel like that to
money which also allowed them to practice. “Mike
us. You hear of these overnight successes but
and Darren had previous experience painting and
we really aren’t one of them.
decorating and thought it would be a great idea if
“In the six years we have been together
we set up a company where we could all work but
we have grafted so hard and it has been very
be together at the same time. It just made sense
gradual for us.
but I am not the best painter and decorator in the
“However, in the last year we have
world! I do make a good cup of tea though!” It
achieved so much and I think it makes it feel
was while painting a shop and singing near Oxford
all the more worthwhile when you have really
Street in London that the band were discovered by
worked for it for a long time. I personally really
a talent scout who signed them immediately to
appreciate where I am now and am enjoying
record label Warner Brothers.
every opportunity I get.”
70
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Gr8 Life magazine
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Although they have spent the last year
on tour is amazing. You cannot beat standing
flying high and ‘living the dream’ their
on the stage singing in front of all these
appearance on Dancing on Ice stands out for
people who have paid to be there. Many of
Mark as a career highlight.
them have bought the album so everyone
He says, “It was such a fantastic
gets up on their feet and sings along. To see
opportunity and we loved it! I grew up
that is fabulous. We are performing in bigger
watching Torvill and Dean and to have them
venues for the second tour and are lucky
skating around you on stage is amazing. It
enough to be at the Palladium in London. We
was a real honour and it was in fact Torvill
are also coming to the North West and I can’t
and Dean who championed us to be on
wait to be on stage at the Manchester Lowery
the show right from the start. We were an
as the city is my home.”
integral part of that show and sat down
So, what is in store for The Overtones?
with everyone beforehand and discussed
Mark answers, “We could only have dreamed
everything. Everyone listened to our ideas
of what we have achieved this year and so we
and we were able to give our input.”
are very grateful for that.
The group finished their first tour earlier in
“I want to continue writing and recording
the year and as Gr8life goes to press will have
songs that we are really proud of and hope
just finished their second. Mark adds, “Being
that we are still around for years to come!”
71
Elaine Frances Laser and Beauty Clinic Established for 24 years in
and
delicate
method
for
intricate
Tarleton, Elaine Frances Clinical
and more sensitive work; it operates
Aesthetics Ltd has moved to new
alongside the more familiar Laser
state of the art premises which
equipment.
offers advanced beauty therapy, laser and non-surgical procedures.
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Elaine is supported by several laser specialists all of whom are senior beauty
Owner Elaine Frances and her team
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have specialised in laser treatments for
and body treatments. Their procedures
over 10 years and have practiced all over
not only include IPL laser hair removal
the North West.
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Her renowned expertise also includes
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are Senior Members of the British
thread vein, skin tag and mole removal.
Cassidy to the Clinic for all injectable
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Laser & Beauty Therapy Clinic Elaine Frances is at the forefront of clinical aesthetics, beauty and laser treatments. The clinic offers a personal, specialist service by a team of highly qualified laser & beauty therapists and Nurse Practitioners. Our treatments include: IPL Laser, Semi-Permanent Make-up, Electrolysis, Thread Vein Repair, Skin Tag Removal, Campbell De Morgan Spot, Millia Removal, Facial & Eye Therapies, Body/ Slimming/Firming Therapies, Hand & Foot Therapies, Depilation Therapies, Dermal Fillers and Wrinkle Smoothing Injections. 109 Church Road, Tarleton, Preston, Lancashire. PR4 6UP (Private Parking available)
Telephone: 01772 816133 Email: info@elainefrances.com www.elainefrances.com 72
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We have moved across the road to a new state-ofthe-art clinic www.gr8lifemagazine.com
77
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Lunch for Queenscourt A Ladies Luncheon for Queenscourt Hospice raised £2,000 for charity recently. The event, held at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, was organised by Margaret Mann who said, “We are delighted that so many people came and supported the event, which was for such a worthy charity. The weather was beautiful and sunny, which after a week of rain was a nice surprise! David Lonsdale also attended and said a few words which everyone Caroline Hope, Doreen Palmer and Pat Morris
Helen Hardman, Heather Griffiths and Sue Blaney
Syvie Ebden with Maxine Mears
David Lonsdale with Margaret Mann
Doreen Palmer, Helen Pickavance, Margaret Mann, David Lonsdale, Christine Rostron and Jean Watkinson
Susan Jones, Ann Porter and Dorothy Lloyd
Doris MacFalin, Maureen Graham, Adriana Murty, Julia Nelson and Chris Theckson
Pamela Barr, Lin Williams, Maggie Barr and Sandra Ireland
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Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
thoroughly enjoyed.”
73
77
Gr8 Life Society Pages
The Village Inn reopening The Village Inn in Tarleton, near Southport, officially opened its doors in November after a five-week refurbishment. The revival of the former Lord Lilford pub has been so well received in the area that 60 bookings have been taken for the restaurant before it has opened. Guests Margaret Brown, Rose Wood, Brian Aughton and Mary All
The pub is being run by Sky TV presenter Glenn Turner and wife Rachael. Glenn says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been delighted by the reaction to the work that has been done at the pub and the kind of relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with a quality food service and cask ales, that we can now offer.â&#x20AC;?
Glenn with some of the Queenscourt volunteers who he invited to the evening reception.
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
Mark, Andrew and Sarah
Professional singer and saxophonist Colin Muse
Kelly, Carly, Katy and Ashleigh from Essentials of Tarleton. 74
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Glenn, daughter Sophie, Rachael and family friends Alex and Roma.
Jodie, Kristian and Sallie at The Village Inn bar. www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Coco Boutique Coco Boutique launched their new Autumn/Winter ranges at The Vincent Hotel in Southport. Over £3500 was raised for their chosen charity the NSPCC. The NSPCC is a national charity which will help projects
Jessica Lewis models for Coco boutique, Emma & Katrina tunicHalsall by Patrizia Pepe, bag by D&G
in our local community to offer a range of services for children who have experienced, or are at risk of, abuse. Over 130 fashion lovers turned up to watch the show which featured the latest collections from designers such as Matthew Williamson, Moschino, Halston Heritage, Alice Temperley amongst many others.
Rachel, Sue & Ruth Gillespie
Nicola Johnson of Coco Boutique, said ‘what an amazing evening, thank you to everyone who gave so generously. We are thrilled to be able to help such a fabulous charity as the NSPCC and see the difference that this money will make in helping to protect children and young people from Jessica Sharman, Zara Lewis, Lauren Birchall, Christina Fell, Harriet Caul & Stephanie Gilligan
Sarah Laycock, Sarah Davidson, Estelle Thomas, Paula Oldfield & Jayne Sullivan
Nicola Johnson & Megan Gilbert of Coco Boutique
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Julia Leeming, Chloe White, Sarah Blonde, Maxine Farnworth & Sarah Maughan
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
abuse and neglect.’
75
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Fashion Show Marc Cain launched their new ranges at The Vincent Hotel in Southport with a team of ten models on hand to showcase the new designs. Almost 100 ladies filled the V Cafe to watch the show and enjoy a fabulous three course meal washed down with wine and champagne. After the show the ladies were treated to a late night shopping experience as Marc Cain opened their doors to allow the ladies to purchase items from the new ranges. Jenny McGreal of Marc Cain, said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;what an amazing evening, thank you to The Vincent for working with us this evening and to my fabulous team of models. We are thrilled to be able to launch such exciting new ranges here in Southport for the new Autumn/Winter season.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; more information contact Jenny McGreal
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
on 01704 513294 or 07976 557039
76
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Gr8 Life Society Pages
New President for Southport Inner Wheel The Inner Wheel Club of Southport has celebrated the Inauguration of New President Maureen Fearn with a luncheon attended by more than fifty guests at The Hesketh Golf Club. New President Maureen Fearn, welcoming guests to the lunch, said â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a delight to be here in this lovely building on such a lovely day. This Inner Wheel Club is a very happy club with all members working for the charities they support. My charity for this year is Queenscourt Hospice, which does a marvelous Ruth Bottomley and Kathleen Robinson
President elect Carol Cookson, Immediate past President Maureen Fearn with outgoing President June Newby
Sheila Tissot and Dorothy Culton
June Newby, Carol Cookson with Rita Farley
Carol Hill, Carol Cookson and Dorothy Lee
Shirley Parker and Audrey Roxburgh
Lois Greenhalsh with Joan Owen the Lady Captain of Hesketh Golf Club
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job for the people of Southport.â&#x20AC;?
77
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Fashion show raises hundreds for charity Over 150 fashionistas attended a charity fashion show in Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, Southport recently The ‘Fashion in the Fall’ show raised over £800 for North West Cancer Research Fund which aims to provide grants to support fundamental research into the causes of cancer. Joan Pettitt, President of North West Cancer Research Fund’s Southport branch said: “On behalf of the charity I would like to thank everyone for their support; the organisers, stores within the Arcade and those who donated raffle prizes for the evening. We thoroughly enjoyed the evening
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
Coco Boutique outfits on the catwalk with Brollies from Bags of Style
Yelena Munday & Yvonne Burns (Manager of Wayfarers Arcade)
Dress from Phase Eight on the catwalk
Jaki O’Donnell (Multiyork) & Rupert Paton (Ruperts)
Megan Gilbert, Caroline Jones, Sarah Marsden, Nicola Johnson, Natasha Malone & Karen Malone
78
)DVKLRQ 6KRZ LQGG
and are delighted with the money raised.”
Danielle Parkes & Brad Barnes
Nicola Lynch, Joan Pettit and Mary Pedlar
Steven & Claire Simonsen
So Talented! open the show
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Birchall Blackburn office opening Birchall Blackburn Solicitors, which has relocated its Southport office to newly refurbished premises in Churchtown, held its official office opening on the evening of Thursday 3 November and were joined by local residents, clients and businesses from the local area. The firm has made a significant investment in the new offices and the evening was a great success.
Adele Gallagher, Conal Gallagher
Andrew Vincent, Bev Ashcroft, Melissa Traynor
Sue Roberts, Conal Gallagher
www.gr8lifemagazine.com ELUFKDOO EODFNEXUQ LQGG
Adele Gallagher, Catherine MacCracken
Sarah Evans, Andrea Forrest
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
Elaine Roberts, Alison Owens
Zara Sedat, Shelley Adams, Jenny Barker
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
Chris Hopes, Gail Shaw, Diana Nicholls
79
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Gr8 Life Society Pages
Pink and Sparkly Ball Claire Simonsen transformed Formby Hall Golf Club with her Pink & Sparkly Ball which raised over £6000 in aid of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Over 200 guests glitzed their way into the ball dressed in fabulous pink dresses and bow ties. Claire said “Everyone looked amazing! The Sproson Family - JP, Sarah, paul, Alison & Joanna Sproson
Myself, and my mum Margaret are overwhelmed with the generosity and support shown by everyone who have helped make it a fabulously pink evening while raising the much needed funds for such a worthy cause.’ Matt Boyle, Director of fund raising at the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said, ‘Lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer in the UK, so it is vital we continue to raise money to help us in
Fab & Lisa Equisi, Lindsey & Chris Jude, Joanne & Graham Metcalfe
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
Margaret Flynn, Pete Flynn & Claire Simonsen
Claire Benson, Lyndsey Hayes & Claire Beck
Chris Bourne & Pete Flynn 80
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the fight to defeat this truly awful disease.”
Miss Southport Brea Carney-Jones & Adam Leatherbarrow
Claire Simonsen & Jay Hynd www.gr8lifemagazine.com
everybody who took part in this years Golf Event at Formby Golf Club. They added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We raised over ÂŁ70,000 on the day. This will be used to fund the new appeal which is to raise ÂŁ500,000 towards the ÂŁ1.3m project
Marina Dalglish Appeal golf day
at Southport and Formby District General
Gr8 Life Society Pages
Kenny & Marina would like to thank
Hospital.â&#x20AC;? The refurbishment will see the cancer centre significantly expanded to create a light, airy treatment space for patients, some of whom require up to eight hours of
Thousands of photos available at www.champnews.com/pixonline
chemotherapy at a time.â&#x20AC;?
www.gr8lifemagazine.com
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Accessories Online The Well Barn Little Crosby Road Little Crosby L23 4TS Tel: 0845 108 3073 www.accessoriesonline.co.uk The Belpasso Oil & Wine Company Unit 4, Malthouse Business Centre, Ormskirk L39 1QR Tel: 01695 581176 www.belpasso.co.uk
Elaine Frances Clinical Aesthetics Ltd 109 Church Road Tarleton Preston Lancashire PR4 6UP Tel 01772 816133 www.elainefrances.com The George Hotel 147 Duke Street Southport PR8 5DH Tel: 01704 530304 www.thegeorgehotel.webs.com
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Scarisbrick Hall School Southport Road Ormskirk Lancashire L40 9RQ Tel: 01704 880200 www.beautifulbeginningsdaynursery.co.uk www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk Senses Spa 72 Duke Street Southport PR8 5BT Tel 01704 885022 Synexus Limited Sandringham House Ackhurst Park Chorley Lancashire PR7 1NY Tel:01257 230723 www.synexus.com The Upholsterer The Well Barn Little Crosby Road Little Crosby L23 4TS Tel: 0151 924 7193 Volare Italian Restaurant 613 Lord Street Southport, Merseyside PR9 0AN Tel:01704 546 232 www.italianrestaurantsouthport.co.uk Waitrose 3 Tuns Lane Formby, L37 4AJ Tel:01704 873 017 www.waitrose.com/formby Well Being At The Well Barn The Well Barn Stable Little Crosby Road Little Crosby L23 4TS Tel: 0151 924 4642 www.wellbeingatthewellbarn.co.uk
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West Lancashire Microlight School Ince Blundell Formby L38 6JJ Tel: 0151 929 3319 www.wlms.co.uk Gr8 Life magazine
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