Gr8Life Issue 21 - Winter 2014 by Champion Media Group

CHRISTMAS IN SOUTHPORT SPECIAL EDITION · ISSUE 21 · WINTER 2014

W ATU FE

ED CK AT PAITH GRERES

Perfect Christmas

Fashion from Jaeger •••

Christmas

Menu Planner

three menus to suit all purses •••

Dobbies’ Christmas

Gift Guide

The Hairy Bikers

on the career change that made their name

Delivered FREE with your Southport Gr8Life_cover_21.indd 1

04/11/2013 16:35

No more boring school holidays! BOOK CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CLUB – 20 DECEMBER online 16 Book online from Monday 4th November TCM at Scarisbrick Hall is a new concept that gets kids active and stimulated. With activities that are entertaining and enlightening, you’ll never hear that “I’m bored” cry again. our jungle forest

“… TCM has been very enjoyable for both of my children, they have fully enjoyed, and come home tired from lots of activities organised for them throughout the day. It is a well run, structured day where children can learn and play, with a relaxed finish to their day. They come home enthusiastic to tell me all they have done. I like the fact they are doing things I do not necessarily have time or the energy to do with them, so thank you…”

Scheduled to run during every school holiday and only £25 per day, which includes a healthy breakfast, a hot 3 course lunch and snacks. There are a host of things to do and all are supervised by our highly trained staff in safe surroundings with lots to explore; TCM is the perfect answer to the holiday blues. Find out what’s happening next time around by visiting our website. This is just a sample of what we got up to this October…

… food from around the world… … stories and poems in our story telling tower… … enjoy our jungle forest… … drama and puppet workshop… … martial arts… … forest school workshop and den building… … mini olympics… Find out more:

www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk 99

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Call us on:

01704 841151

Gr8Life Magazine

04/11/2013 16:46

OPEN MORNING

YEAR 7 ENTRANCE EXAM

THURSDAY

WEDNESDA WEDNESDAY

28 NOVEMBER N

22 JANUAR JANUARY

9AM - 11AM

2014

Aspire to be more. At Scarisbrick Hall School, we believe that we offer the North West’s most progressive and forward-thinking educational establishment. We’re building a better future for our pupils, to make the most of their potential: Nursery and Pre School, who prioritise an holistic approach which is enhanced by the outdoor learning and the Forest School in Scarisbrick Park A First School who believes in the value of nurturing every child so that they are prepared for their own academic journey Emphasis in First School is placed on the key skills of Reading, Writing and Mathematics and the social skills needed for life Specialist subject teaching from Year 5 including Biology, Physics, Chemistry, English, Mathematics, History and Geography Successful sports teams at local and national level 3 Year GCSE programme starting in Year 9 Enrichment programmes that stretch and support Contact our Admissions Office for further information:

01704 842240

www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk

Pre-School Christmas 2013

from 3 years old

1123348 scarisbrick hall school dps.indd 2

First School Reception to Year 4

Middle School Year 5 to Year 8

College

Year 9 to Year 13 04/11/2013 16:47

Well, it’s official. Christmas is (almost) here again. So let me ask you a question .... Are you a fan or a bah-humbug? Christmas can be enjoyed at so many levels and, to me, that’s the key to having a good time during this festive season. Very often, Christmas is a source of stress and resentment simply because people do overstretch themselves, financially and with their expectations too. We try too hard and with that in mind, Gr8Life offers you great food and menu ideas for every budget. It can actually be quite simple if you stick to a plan and I hope we can help you get the best out of your day! Stress very often comes from the fact that one person ends up doing all the work (or most of it). Everyone deserves a treat and no more so than the one on PUBLISHER

Betty Drummond

whom most of the Christmas organisation falls to. Well, fear not. Gr8Life has some terrific ideas with a fabulous new spa opening

EDITORIAL

right here in the heart of Southport and a great restaurant/hotel with superb

Louisa Austin Laurent Saletto David Simister Dawn Middleton

food and unbelievable deals. So why not get in shape just before Christmas? And

ADVERTISING SALES

blow you away. Jaeger has always been synonymous of style and elegance

Chris Chew 01704 392 338

and boy! they are still a force to be reckoned with. British design remains one

PHOTOGRAPHY

ethos. Their pieces are timeless, and can be seen as investments. Well, that’s

Martyn Snape John Swift DESIGN

why not treat a loved one as a pre-Christmas thank you? If pampering and looking great are up your street our fashion section will

of the jewels of our heritage and Jaeger is a brand that fits very well into that my excuse anyway! So in short, I believe we have put together a terrific Christmas Gr8life for

Mike Rose

you. Packed with celebrity interviews, gift and food suggestions, the team and I

DISTRIBUTION

have tried to give you, our reader, a definitive local Christmas magazine, one you

Phil Drummond

can keep close by and constantly refer to, not just during the festive season but

PUBLISHED BY

beyond it as well. And can I be so bold as to ask one favour? This year,before you hit the Internet or brace yourself to a bout of exhausting shopping in the nearest big city or soulless

Champion Media Group Clare House 166 Lord Street Southport PR9 0QA 01704 392 392 www.champnews.com © 2013 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. 4

04 welcome page.indd 1

shopping centre, have a good look at what our pages offer you within. You will be surprised at what you can find locally and how close by fantastic Christmas offers happen to be. Keeping Christmas local is keeping a sense of individuality alive, away from the same old same old. Let’s face it we all spend money at this time of the year ... perhaps this year we can make a local difference! Until next time... Louisa Austin, Associate Editor Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 12:12

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Now in Lancashire, a local company is helping customers with mobility problems have less pain, be more comfortable and enjoy life.

DO YOU SUFFER FROM POOR MOBILITY AND CAN’T SIT COMFORTABLY? YOU’RE NOT GOING CRAZY! Clinical studies have shown that certain poorly fitted recliners can make your mobility issues worse.

If you suffer from hours of back pain or aching legs, you know how painful and draining these conditions can be. One sufferer wrote: “I just can’t can seem to get comfortable no matter what I do. I can’t sit for more than 10 minutes. It’s physically draining not being able to sit or sleep.”

Have you been everywhere, tried everything and - Fast Track delivery of 48 hours on over 1000 products. are still suffering? - Advice from expert staff in a relaxed and non-pressure sales environment. Many of the symptoms you likely suffer from are invisible. You may look fine, but beneath the surface - Coffee and biscuits while you take your time deciding. you are exhausted and in excruciating pain.

My Name is Darren Douglas and I am the owner of the ‘Recliner Lounge’ Comfort Studio in Lancashire. Do you suffer from any of the Over the past nearly ten years we have used our following symptoms? knowledge and expertise to help thousands of sufferers who have symptoms such as aching joints, * Aching limbs and joints disturbed sleep, fatigue, stiffness, Arthritis, * Disturbed sleep Rheumatism, MS and numerous other ailments. Our * Fatigue or stiffness aim is to make you feel better and live a healthier and * Arthritis, Rheumatism, MS more joyful life. We can help show you why the * Poor circulation * Other mobility restrictions/disabilities chair you use at the moment may be doing you more harm than good. Contrary to what some people may believe, these symptoms are more Because of this, I’m running a special offer for o common than you may think. You’re not people with any of the ailments listed above. For this alone.There are numerous studies month only we are offering a free 5 year showing that the furniture you sit on can warranty, free installation and a free care kit on improve your health or can actually any Comfort studio Riser Recliner. This offer is intensify your pain if you are using the worth an incredible £135. incorrect type of recliner. What does this offer include? Winston J. Warme, M.D. Associate - In-depth help from our trained staff. sta Professor at UW Orthapaedics & Sports - Over 40 different Riser Recliners to choose from. Medicine in Washington USA reported - VAT exemption available for qualifying customers sleeping in a recliner may considerably (saving you a further 20%) reduce the pain caused by Arthritis. Recliners Direct Ltd (Head Ofice & Showroom) 42 Hough Lane, Leyland, Preston, Lancashire PR25 2SA T: 01772 623001 / 01772 623012 E: reclinersdirect@blueyonder.co.uk W: www.reclinersdirect.co.uk

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NO PRESSURE SALES, NO INTIMIDATION AND FAST DELIVERY So feel free to visit one of our comfort studios Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 4pm, or call us on (01772) 623001 or (01704) 530968. IF YOU SUFFER FROM A LONG TERM DISABILITY, THERE IS HOPE. My team and I look forward to helping you sit comfortably again, so you can start living a healthier and more enjoyable life. Yours Sincerely, Darren Douglas. P.S. Imagine how great you could feel without constant fatigue and nagging pains. Imagine jumping out of your recliner or bed and enjoying a more active day, no more getting up feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck. Imagine not having to take handfuls of pills that haven’t helped much and have dangerous side effects. What would it feel like to have hope again?

Recliners Direct Ltd (Southport Showroom) 21-23 Shakespeare Street, Southport, Mersyside PR8 5AB T: 01704 530968 E: southport@reclinersdirect.co.uk W: www.reclinersdirect.co.uk

04/11/2013 16:51

CON T EN T S

Seeing is believing .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 8 Eye health is something we shouldn’t take for granted

Christmas at Southport Market. .. .. .. 10 A sack full of fun for everyone

The Courtyard comes to town .. .. .. .. 12 A new shopping outlet in Tarleton

See winter through in style .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 17 Stunning Jaeger fashion

Christmas Menu Planner .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 24 Three wonderful 3-course menus for all purses

Delivered to your door.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 30 Getting fresh local provisions is easy

Briars Hall – the perfect package .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 31 A beautiful wedding and event venue in Lathom

Pawnbroking as it should be.. .. .. .. .. .. 35 Unlocking the value of your assets

All under one roof .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 38 A new venue combining pampering with fine food

Christmas begins at Wayfarers .. .. .. .. 40 The traditional shopping arcade gets ready for Christmas

Your perfect Christmas gift guide . .. 43 Dobbies bring us affordable gifts for everyone CHRISTMAS IN SOUTHPORT SPECIAL EDITION · ISSUE SSUE 21 · WINTER 2014

All that sparkles. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 49 Champagne … and how to enjoy it

W ATU FE

ED CK AT PAITH GRERES

It’s never too late to follow your dream .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 53 Well known actress Sally Bankes talks to Gr8Life

Perfect PPe erfect Christmas Christmas

Fashion from Jaeger •••

Christmas

Menu Planner

three menus to suit all purses •••

Dobbies’ Christmas

Gift Guide

Beer – the best of the north west . .. 57 A dozen ales that are worth investigating

From Fairy liquid to wicked fairy.. .. .. 61 ‘How Clean Is Your House’ Kim Woodburn tells all

Waste not, want not. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 65 Tasty recipes for those Christmas leftovers

One for the Christmas list .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 69 Swooning over a Lotus Evora

The Hairy Bikers on the career change that made their name

Delivered FREE with your Southport

The sounds of Christmas .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 73 Twelve great CD’s that are perfect stocking fillers

From films to food .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 79 We talk to The Hairy Bikers

06 contents.indd 1

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 12:31

Open Day Every Day At Merchant Taylors’ Schools we recognise that academic achievement is only one part of an 80% of all grades all-round educa�on. As well as gaining the top exam results on Merseyside we pride ourselves A*- B. 100% pass rate. in oﬀering the best extra-curricular provision. To nd out more please make an appointment to visit the schools during a normal working day. A Level Results 2013:

Contact 0151 932 2414 or 0151 949 9333 for more informaƟon.

Extensive school bus service - 14 routes across the North West Including a new express service from South Liverpool

1123346

www.merchanƩaylors.com

1123346 merchant.indd 1

The Merchant Taylors’ Schools, Crosby; a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: Company Number 6654276 Registered Office: 186 Liverpool Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 0QP. Registered Charity Number: 1125485

04/11/2013 16:52

Seeing is believing Eye health is extremely important. Something we shouldn’t take for granted. A visit to the opticians not only checks your vision but also the health of the eye and can even spot potential tumours and brain disorders before they become life-threatening.

answering questions and therefore guarantees an accurate result and clear vision.“ A further introduction to the UK is the new Glaucoma examination which combines corneal

Batty & Dexter Opticians, which has opened

thickness with air puff measurement. The

recently on Lord Street and has three other

automatic puff control on this instrument achieves

branches in Liverpool, has

a quieter and softer air puff

become one of the first in

for more patient comfort.

the UK to introduce a new and

advanced

eye

This instrument offers

care

a much more accurate

examination process.

measurement

With the delivery of a

traditional

Nidek OPD III Wavefront

than

instruments

which will lead to better

Refractive Analyser, they can offer high definition

and earlier diagnosis of this sight threatening

eye examinations and improved digital precision

condition.

for the optician to better analyse the eye.

Beverley

added:

”I

was

born

Owners – and Birkdale residents – Karl and Beverley

Southport

Spinks are former students of the eye department

to open an opticians in our home town.

of Southport Hospital and wanted to bring their

“We recently won the National Opticians

expertise back to the resort on the experience of

Award for best Paperless Practice and our new

16 years running an opticians in Liverpool.

Southport opticians is the most technologically

Karl said: “Digital eye examinations make

and

have

always

wanted

advanced yet.”

the experience much more pleasurable and

There are currently big savings on thinner

less stressful for the patient. The high definition

lenses and top designer frames with free

eye examination does not rely on the patient

contact lens trials.

Seeing is believing.indd 1

Book your eye examination online at opticiansliverpool.co.uk or phone 01704 540009 Gr8Life Magazine

04/11/2013 16:57

£15 OFF £20 OFF £30 OFF £50 OFF

FRAMES FRAMES FRAMES FRAMES £19-£99

£100-£149

£150-£199

OVER

£200

Buy More, Save More with Batty & Dexter Batty and Dexter Opticians are a family-run Opticians practice owned by Southport residents Karl and Beverley Spinks. Karl and Beverley are both qualified Optometrists and have run practices in Liverpool for over fifteen years.

623 Lord Street, Southport PR9 0AN. Telephone: 01704 540009

1122779

The new store on Lord Street stocks the latest designs from all our designer ranges for both adults and children. The consulting room has the latest wave-front technology giving patients the most advanced eye examination available today. We are proud to be one of only two Opticians in the UK with this advanced technology which will revolutionise eye examinations for future generations.

Not in conjunction with any other offer, excludes sale frames.

Quality 1122779 spink.indd 1

Value

Choice 04/11/2013 16:54

Christmas at Southport Market Be merry and bright this Christmas with festive food, gorgeous gifts, stunning party wear and a sack full of fun for the kids. Summer may only have recently ended but the Christmas countdown begins in earnest at Southport Market where preparations for the festive season have been in the planning for many months. Christmas is a very special time at the Market as fresh food traders’ stalls are piled high with great seasonal and locally grown produce that serve as a welcome reminder of all the fun and festivities to come! Savvy shoppers will be already pre-ordering their goodies to ensure their Christmas spread includes the tastiest ingredients available. Blackhurst Butcher’s deluxe hamper contains all the traditional favourites for only £55 and orders for fresh farm turkeys can be placed up to December 1. A range of scrumptious speciality foods are available from Holmes-Smith Gourmet Foods while Mrs G’s fruit and veg will be taking orders up to December 23 with free delivery on orders over £7. As November turns into December, the market will be decked out in beautiful decorations inside and out while local community groups, guest chefs, theatre groups and more will regularly join us to perform seasonal songs and entertain you whilst our traders will tempt you with stunning and affordable party outfits or gift ideas for family and friends. Once you’ve decked your halls and picked your Christmas tree from our greengrocer - it’s time to put some lovely presents underneath! Browse brilliant gift ideas for her, him, friends, kids and family; with fun novelty presents and toys and foodie gifts to practical presents. Latest fashion and children’s wear, gifts, wrap and Christmas cards for the season plus some festive home touches like Christmas tablecloths and unusual candles for your table are all available. From beautifully party dresses, bags and bejewelled

accessories to warm and comfy slippers, boots, tights, winter hats and scarves, the market is the one-stop shop for the season’s essentials. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without Santa and Southport Market had the town buzzing last year when it revealed it’s stunning sell-out Santa’s Grotto run by the hugely popular Starkidz. Delighted children and their parents were enchanted by the magical grotto and the fantastic entertainment offered to the patiently waiting children that included wish-list letter writing, reindeer food, dancing and games with Frosty the Snowman and some very mischievous elves. Much to the amusement of their children, even parents were ‘scanned’ by the elves to see if they have been naughty or nice! Santa and his Starkidz team will return to take up residence in the grotto on Saturday December 14 and it will be open both weekends before Christmas, including Friday December 20, Monday December 23 and Christmas Eve. To book tickets for the Grotto, book at www. facebook.com/starkidzchristmas, visit Diana Celine Photography or call at Marshside Toys in the market. Tickets are £6 per child and include lots of entertainment and a gift. You can turn up on the day and wait for a free slot but advance booking is highly recommended. If all this excitement is too much for you, just sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere with a delicious freshly prepared meal or drink at Mustard, the Market’s popular licensed coffee house. There will be some festive menus added to their tempting range of breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea such as Gingerbread latte and mince pie and all hot drinks will be served with a candy cane for adults and a chocolate coin for children. If you want to get up close and personal with the big man himself, why not book a special breakfast or Christmas lunch with Santa on either of the two weekends before Christmas? The kids will love to pull a cracker with Santa before he heads back to the North Pole! Merry Christmas from Southport Market.

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 11:44

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04/11/2013 16:59

YOU’LL KNOW THE BRANDS BUT YOU WON’T RECOGNISE THE PRICES!

Whittles

Farm

R E S TA U R A N T A N D C O F F E E S H O P F O R B O O K I N G S C A L L 01772 817435

“FOOD BEAUTIFULLY COOKED AND PRESENTED IN A STUNNING SETTING”

WW TM

WoodWick

fragrance never sounded so good ®

t 01772 815068

YOURSELF - G O O N, T R E A T

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm Sunday 11.00am - 5.00pm

FREE PARKING

w w w. c o u r t y a r d t a r l e t o n . c o . u k 1123210 courtyard.indd 1

1123210

94 CHURCH ROAD, TARLETON, PR4 6UP

04/11/2013 17:01

OWN T O - COMES T

New shopping outlet, The Courtyard, in Tarleton, officially opened its doors in October for customers after a £100,000 refurbishment at the former Webster’s of Tarleton site. The deal sees the owners of the successful Ena

Mill

Atherton

retail

on his premises we were honoured. We

operation to the site with Jonathan Webster

were well aware of the fantastic reputation

concentrating

successful

that Webster’s of Tarleton has throughout

Whittles Farm restaurant – which is also based

Lancashire and further afield and we saw an

at the Tarleton site.

opportunity to bring in a new retail offer that

bring

growing

his

their

Jonathan Addis explained “When Jonathan Webster approached us and asked if we Christmas 2013

The Courtyard.indd 2

would be interested in opening a new store

would complement the great Whittles Farm restaurant. 13

04/11/2013 17:02

TOWN O T - COMES

“Our philosophy is to sell top quality brands

square-feet outlet store has created more

with big savings off recommended retail prices,

than 25 new jobs. The store now offers high

we just offer consumers great value for money

quality homeware brands that include Yankee

– it’s as simple as that.”

Candle, bedding from leading brands Sheridan,

Jonathan Webster adds, “It’s been a hectic

Lexington and Rectella as well as famous

couple of months with a massive refurbishment

names such as Portmeirion pottery, Royal

and loads of new brands coming in but it’s been

Worcester, Dartington Crystal and a brilliant

worth the wait - the reaction from customers

gift department.

old and new has been fantastic! And I’m

The fashion department is packed with

confident that The Courtyard combined with

stylish clothing ideas from

Whittles Farm restaurant is set to become a

Viyella, Roman, Tigi, Klass and Autonomy as

popular destination for the North West public.”

well as having a lovely footwear department.

The five week transformation of the 10,000 14

The Courtyard.indd 3

Joseph Ribkoff,

Before the grand opening, The Courtyard Gr8Life Magazine

04/11/2013 17:03

TOWN O T - COMES

opened up the doors to host a celebration

on each night. We’re delighted to be trading

for a select invited group of local residents on

in Tarleton and hope the whole of Lancashire

Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th September.

will come and see what we’ve created here.

For The Courtyard, Simon Yates said: “We wanted the local people who have supported

were

entertained

singer

Paul Guard over the two preview evenings.

of the store to enjoy the first look at The

And, complimentary food and drinks were

Courtyard. We worked hard to make sure all

supplied by Whittles Farm which remains an

the right people were invited. Thankfully they

integral part of The Courtyard experience. The

came in their hundreds, and for that we are

popular 50-covers restaurant plus the coffee

incredibly grateful.

shop continues to trade on the site under the

feedback and kind words of encouragement

The Courtyard.indd 4

Shoppers

us most since we began the redevelopment

“We received nothing but favourable

Christmas 2013

Because we think it’s a bit special!”

management of Jonathan Webster, Ann Palmer and Head Chef Simon Jackson. 15

04/11/2013 17:03

Woodlands Animal Sanctuary

Supporting Woodlands Animal Sanctuary

A Luxury Hotel for Cats, Rabbits and other Small animals. A stay at Woodlands promises sumptuous surroundings in the heart of rural Lancashire. Guests can expect total tranquillity and comfort during their stay. Large spacious rooms with separate sleeping and play area. All guests have 24 Hour supervision. With a caring team to pamper to their every need and to love them just like you do! Woodlands offers a home from home experience.

1123415

Tel: 01704 822828 Email: info@woodlandscathotel.co.uk Web: www.woodlandscathotel.co.uk

Woodlands not only take in unwanted, neglected, abandoned, sick and injured animals, they also have a pet hotel where proceeds go to helping the sanctuary. Hedgehogs, cats, equines, rabbits, guinea pigs, farm animals and ex caged birds are all nursed back to health and rehabilitated by the centre. The most recent admittance was a mother cat with her three kittens who had been found in an outhouse in Crossens, one of the kittens had managed to get stuck within a wall and had brick dust in its mouth. Thankfully, Woodlands was contacted. The sanctuary receive many calls from people with seriously unwell hedgehogs, which staff rehabilitate and release back into the wild near homes that will guarantee to feed them 365 days a year. Woodlands have around 350 animals in the sanctuary at any one time. As the winter months draw in heating, lighting and food bills go up and it is one of the most financially difficult times for the centre. To help Woodlands continue their valuable work you can visit the website www.animalsanctuary.org.uk and donate. Cheques can be sent to Woodlands, Sandy Lane, Holmeswood, L40 1UE.

Visit a PROFESSIONAL

carpet shop with over 40 years experience

Carpet from all the leading British Manufacturers • Brintons • Ulster • Victoria PLUS a large selection of European styles

We specialise in all floor coverings from Residential to Contract including: • Karndean loose lay floors • Rhino flooring • Heuga carpet tiles plus much more!

Custom Made Carpets Choose your colour Pick your design

We also offer STAIR LIFTS - removed and replaced the same day

Woodlands animal sanctuary.indd 1

1123887

Birkdale Carpets

14 Upper Aughton Road, Birkdale, Southport PR8 5NA 01704 568 022 www.birkdalecarpets.com AMPLE FREE PARKING

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 14:16

This season, smart is making a return after several years of grunge and casual leading the way in the fashion stakes. 2013 sees tailoring back in a big way, along

with

good

quality

fabrics

and

traditional styles, all encompassing the good old days of glamour and dressing up. For women, pleats, separates (skirts and tops) and wool are all popular on the catwalks this winter with pieces taking on a modern twist to the styles of the 50 and 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Skirt fashion has changed considerably over the last few seasons and much longer styles are replacing the thigh skimming options we have seen on the high street since 2011 - much to the relief of many women! Now calf length and flared at the knee, footwear needs to be revisited as kitten heels and flats will not work with this new design. Well known designs and prints are also popular with tartan and check taking centre stage. However, these styles are not for everyone and before you decide to take the plunge, make sure they compliment your shape and skin tone. Following a trend for the sake of it can end in the disaster if it is one that is not suited to you. Colour-wise, navy is the chief hue this season and it can be paired well with other colour trends including black, grey, burgundy and purple.

Christmas 2013

See winter through in style.indd 2

04/11/2013 17:07

See winter through in style.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

04/11/2013 17:07

Jaeger on Lord Street in Southport has some great examples

winter

fashion this season and

cater

women

for aged

35 right up to seventy plus. From

casual

to work wear to evening wear, they have embraced all the catwalk trends along the

with

most

using

luxurious

materials and fabrics for a real sumptuous shopping experience. Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

fashion

rather masculine this winter with sharp lines, oversized coats and double breasted jackets leading the way. Slouchy trousers

will

also

feature

womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lines and even be paired with suit jackets for a cutting edge but comfortable outfit.

Christmas 2013

See winter through in style.indd 4

04/11/2013 17:07

See winter through in style.indd 5

Gr8Life Magazine

04/11/2013 17:08

Talking of oversized coats, big really is better this season with coats becoming ‘man-sized’ with a view to keeping ladies wrapped up as warm as possible. However, if you like to show off your figure you may want to stay away from this trend as it swamps even the most curvy of ladies. Faux fur, mohair and faux sheepskin are the fabrics of choice for coats and jackets this year so you are guaranteed to keep warm if it is an icy cold winter. Men’s fashion has also taken a more formal turn with suit trousers and chinos being favoured over the

wardrobe

staple

jeans.

Coupled with a tailored suit jacket or a woollen jumper, you have the perfect Christmas day outfit. Loafers are still big this season with several different styles and colours hitting the shops including buckled ones, suede, velvet and even faux snakeskin! Worn with casual chinos or as formal or work wear they can lend themselves to most outfits, in fact many men took to wearing them with shorts this summer. Ironically, men’s coat trends are the complete opposite to women’s masculine large offerings this winter. Forget bulky winter coats, next autumn is all about the neat bomber jacket for men. Embrace the trend fully with contrasting collar and hem, or in an iridescent sheen.

Christmas 2013

See winter through in style.indd 6

04/11/2013 17:08

artees Ladies Fashion at sensible prices

Jewellery from as little as £3 Great selection of scarves from £5 52 Lord Street, Southport PR8 1QB Tel: 01704 500114 Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm

1123672

Gifts Galore... new stock arriving daily

Virginia Lee An exquisite collection

Ladies Designer Clothing

Handbags · Scarves · Gloves · Statement Jewellery

of elegant clothing accessories and costume jewellery Annette Gortz · Mashiah · Krines Charli · Xenia Designs · Joseph Ribkoff Linda Lusardi Designs for Jami

Virginia Lee

22.indd 1

1123973

01704 546584

5 Weld Parade · Birkdale Village Southport · PR8 2DT • Tel: 01704 569697

1123349

8/9 Garrick Parade Lord Street Southport PR8 1RN

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:38

Inspired to Achieve Visiting Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Whole School Friday 10th January 2014, 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm

Scholarships available:

Come and sample a taste of life at St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, meet our ZRQGHUIXO SXSLOV DQG VWDII DQG Ă&#x20AC;QG RXW PRUH DERXW WKH fantastic learning and development opportunities on offer. Bright Sparks & Early Years, The Mount and the College will be open to visitors anytime between 9am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm.

Q Open Academic Scholarships

Entrance Examination

Q Sixth Form Scholarships

Friday 24th January 2014

Q Edmund Rice Scholarships (assisted places) Q Excellence Awards in Art, Music and Sport We also operate a very generous sibling discount policy

To register please call 0151 924 3926 or email RIĂ&#x20AC;FH#VWPDU\V OSRRO VFK XN

1123350

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The Independent Catholic School for boys and girls of all faiths aged 0-18 www.stmarys.ac 0151 924 3926 www.stmarysprep.liverpool.sch.uk 0151 924 6302 www.stmarysbrightsparks.co.uk 0151 932 0743 St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Crosby Trust Limited. Reg. Office: St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College, Everest Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 5TW Registered in England - Company No. 05412328 Registered Charity No. 1110311

Christmas 2013

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05/11/2013 08:19

christmas

MENU planner If you haven’t already started planning your Christmas menu, there isn’t a moment to lose! As Christmas approaches it’s easy to get carried away in the supermarket but peoples

Menu 1 Serves 6

Smoked Trout Pâté & Pitta Crisps Cheaper than smoked salmon, this smoked trout dip makes a simple starter. Ingredients: • 4-6 pitta breads • 2 tbsp olive oil • 240g hot-smoked trout ﬁllets • 200ml reduced fat soured cream • 1 tbsp chopped gherkin • 2 tbsp chopped dill, plus extra for sprinkling Method: Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 8. Halve the pittas and cut into wedges. Brush with 2 tbsp olive oil; sprinkle with salt and chopped dill. Cook for 10-12 mins until crisp. Flake the trout ﬁllets and mix with soured cream, chopped gherkins and chopped dill. Serve with the crisps.

budgets are varied. We have found three wonderful Christmas menus to suit all purses. Maybe you can mix and match them to suit yours. 24

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:26

Mustard Glazed Roast Chicken with Waldorf Stuffing A few extra vegetables will turn this recipe into a Christmas lunch spread - get ahead by making the stuffing in advance. Ingredients: • 1 large chicken (about 2kg/4lb 8oz) • 25g butter • 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard For the stuffing: • 3 celery sticks, finely chopped • 2 red apples, cored and finely chopped • 100g walnuts, chopped • 100g fresh breadcrumbs, handful reserved for the topping • 400g sausagemeat (6 sausages) • 1 medium egg • handful parsley, chopped • 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard • 25g butter, plus extra for greasing Method: Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Season the chicken all over and put in a roasting tin. Smear with the butter and put on the middle shelf of the oven for 50 mins. Brush the chicken with the mustard, transfer it to a lower shelf and roast for 40 mins more until cooked through and the juices run clear. To make the stuffing, mix together all the ingredients, except the butter, in a large bowl with some seasoning. Scrunch with your hands until well combined. Meanwhile, grease a 20 x 30cm roasting tin. Press in the stuffing, then sprinkle with the reserved breadcrumbs and dot with the butter. Put the stuffing on the top shelf at the same time and cook for 40-50mins until golden and crisp. Leave the chicken to rest for 10 mins, then serve with the stuffing.

Cranberry Fools These are quick to prepare and the recipe is easily increased to serve more. Ingredients: • 200g cranberries, plus extra to decorate • 200g caster sugar, plus 3 tbsp extra to decorate • 400ml double cream • 1 egg white Method: Put the cranberries in a pan with 150g of the sugar. Gently heat until the sugar begins to melt, then cover and cook for 5-10mins until the berries are soft. Mash and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Stir in 200ml of the cream and chill until cool. In a bowl, whip the remaining cream with the remaining 50g sugar until soft peaks form. Scrape onto the cranberry mixture and fold 1-2 times to very lightly marble. Spoon between 6 small bowls. Cover and chill for at least 2hrs or up to 24 hrs. Froth the egg white with a fork. Put the extra 3tbsp sugar on a small plate. Tip the extra cranberries for decoration into the egg white, then drop into the sugar. Shake the plate to roll and coat the berries. Repeat a few times, leaving the sugar to set for a couple of minutes between each. Chill until ready to serve. To serve, top each fool with a few sugared cranberries.

w w w.goodfood.com

Christmas 2013

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05/11/2013 08:26

Menu 2 Serves 6

Make-ahead Mushroom Soufflés Ingredients: • 140g small button mushrooms, sliced • 50g butter, plus extra for greasing • 25g plain flour • 325ml milk • 85g Gruyère, finely grated, plus a little extra • 3 large eggs, separated • 6tsp crème fraîche • snipped chives, to serve Method: Fry the mushrooms in the butter for about 3 mins, then remove from the heat and reserve a good spoonful. Add the flour to the rest, then blend in the milk and return to the heat, stirring all the time to make a thick sauce. Stir in the cheese, season to taste, then leave to cool. Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Butter 6x 150ml soufflé dishes and line the bases with baking paper. Stir the egg yolks into the soufflé mixture, then whisk the egg whites until stiff before folding in carefully. Spoon into the soufflé dishes and bake in a roasting tin, half-filled with cold water, for 15 mins until risen and golden. Leave to cool (they will sink, but they are meant to). You can make the soufflés up to this stage up to 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. When ready to serve, turn the soufflés out of their dishes, peel off the lining paper, then put them on a baking sheet lined with small squares of baking paper. Top each soufflé with 1 tsp crème fraîche and a little cheese, then scatter with the reserved mushrooms. Bake at 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 for 10-15 mins until slightly risen and warmed through. Sprinkle with chives and serve.

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Roast Turkey & Cranberry Wellington Ingredients: • 1x2-2½ kg/4lb 8oz-5lb 8oz turkey breast, skin removed • 2-3 tbsp cooking oil, plus extra for greasing • 16-20 thin rashers rindless streaky bacon • 450g puff pastry, home-made or bought • ﬂour, for dusting • 1 egg, beaten For the stuffing: • 2 onions, ﬁnely chopped • knob of butter • 350g turkey trimmings (from breast) • 225g pork sausages, skinned • 2 eggs • 150g dried cranberries, chopped • 150g unsweetened chestnut purée • 100g fresh white breadcrumbs

For the sauce: • 25g butter, plus extra for the shallots • 50g shallots or onions, sliced • 1 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar • 400ml red wine • 300ml water or chicken stock made with 1/8 stock cube • 1 heaped tsp plain ﬂour

Method: Trim the turkey breast and keep to one side for the stuffing. Once trimmed, tie the breast with a 2cm/1in gap between each loop of string, to give a rounded shape. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large frying pan or roasting tray. Season the turkey and pan fry until golden brown all over. Remove from the pan and cool. The breast can now be refrigerated to firm up before removing the string. Make the stuffing: cook the onions in a knob of butter until softened. Remove from the heat and leave to cool. Roughly chop the turkey trimmings before blitzing in a food processor until smooth. Add sausagemeat and continue to mix, season and add the eggs until the texture thickens. Spoon the stuffing into a large bowl. Mix in the onions and remaining stuffing ingredients. This can now be chilled. Roll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle approximately 45 x 35cm/18 x 14in. The rashers of bacon can be laid on top of the pastry, leaving a 3-4cm/1½in border all round. Slightly overlap the rashers as they are laid on the pastry (you’ll need about 14-15 rashers). Spread the cranberry stuffing over the bacon, keep back a few heaped tablespoons. Remove the string from the turkey and lay the breast lengthwise and presentation side down on top of the stuffing. The reserved stuffing can now be spread along the centre top of the turkey. Lift 4-5 rashers at a time and press them against the breast. Continue until all the rashers on both sides have been lifted and pressed.

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:28

Sloe Gin & Fruit Sponge Puddings The remaining rashers can now be laid lengthwise along the top, covering the stufﬁng that was spread there. Bring one long side of the pastry up and over the turkey. Brush the other long side edge with beaten egg then seal. Brush both ends with beaten egg and fold up to seal in all the ingredients. Turn the Wellington so that the presentation side is up and put on a lightly oiled baking tray, or one covered with greased parchment. Chill. To cook the Wellington: preheat the oven to 200C/Gas 6/170C in a fan assisted convection oven and bake for 1hr 15mins to 1hr 25mins max. After 45mins, brush the Wellington with egg to help colour the pastry. Once cooked, remove from the oven and rest for 15-20mins before lifting carefully on to a carving board. While the Wellington is baking the sauce can be made: melt a knob of butter in a pan, once bubbling add the shallots or onions and cook on a medium heat until a rich deep golden colour.

Add the honey and continue to cook for a few minutes until bubbling and almost caramelising. At this point add the red wine vinegar and red wine. Bring to the boil and reduce by half. Add the water or stock and return to simmer. Mix the ﬂour with 25g/1oz butter. Whisk into the sauce a little at a time until completely whisked in. Return the sauce to the boil before reducing to a simmer and cooking for a few minutes. Strain through a sieve and season. Slice the Wellington and serve.

Christmas 2013

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Ingredients: • 100g mixed dried fruits • 4 tbsp sherry • 200g butter, plus extra for the moulds • 200g caster sugar • 4 medium eggs • 200g self-raising flour • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp mixed spice • zest ½ orange or 1 clementine • 150ml sloe gin • 6 tbsp apricot jam Method: Soak the dried fruit in the Sherry overnight, or for as long as you can, even a 10-min soak will help. Butter 6 x 200ml pudding or dariole moulds. Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Beat the eggs, then slowly add them to the butter and sugar and whisk together. Sift the flour and baking powder together, then carefully fold into the egg, butter and sugar mix using a large metal spoon. Drain the fruit and fold into the mix with the mixed spice, orange or clementine zest and 4 tbsp of the sloe gin. Mix the jam and the remaining sloe gin, then divide between the moulds. Spoon in the batter, filling the moulds two-thirds full. Cover each mould with a large square of foil with a pleat in the centre to allow room to rise. Secure with string. Place the moulds in a baking or roasting dish, then fill the dish with water to come one-third up the side of the moulds. Bake for about 1hr or until the sponges have risen and are cooked. To serve, remove the foil. Gently loosen the puddings with a knife and upturn them onto plates.

w w w.goodfood.com

05/11/2013 08:26

Menu 3 Serves 6

Lobster with Thermidor Butter Ingredients: • 3 cooked lobsters For the butter: • 150ml dry white wine • 1 shallot, very finely chopped • handful tarragon leaves, chopped • handful parsley leaves, chopped • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • juice 1⁄2 lemon • pinch paprika • dash Tabasco sauce • 5 tbsp parmesan, finely grated • 140g butter, softened Method: First make the butter. Put the wine and shallot into a pan, then bring to the boil and simmer until nearly dry. Tip into a bowl to cool, mix all the ingredients for the butter together, roll into a log, using cling film or foil, then chill to harden. This can be frozen for up to 1 month. S nap away the claws from the lobster. Using a large chef’s knife, cut the lobster in half and wash the head cavity under cold water, then dry with kitchen paper. Lay the lobsters, cut side up, on a baking tray. Crack the claws and remove the claw meat. Divide claw meat between the head cavities. This can be done the day before and the lobster kept in the fridge ready for grilling. Heat grill to high. Slice the butter into thin rounds and lay it along the lobsters so all the meat is covered. Grill for 5-8 mins until the butter is bubbling and starting to brown. Put the lobsters on plates, pouring any butter from the tray over them. Serve with some dressed salad leaves. 28

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Christmas Goose with Apples, Root Veg & Bramble Gravy Ingredients: • 4-5kg oven-ready goose, trussed for roasting • 2 oranges • 4 bay leaves • bunch thyme • 3 tbsp sunﬂower oil • 8 medium carrots, peeled • 8 medium parsnips, peeled • 4 turnips, peeled and halved or quartered FOR THE APPLES: • 230g jar cranberries or port sauce • 50g fresh or defrosted cranberries • 6 medium Cox or Braeburn apples • 25g butter • 2 tsp golden caster sugar FOR THE BRAMBLE GRAVY: • 1 tbsp golden caster sugar • 100ml good-quality red wine vinegar • ½ jar bramble jelly • 100ml strong chicken stock

Method: Remove all the fat from inside the bird and use a skewer to prick the goose skin all over, especially under the wings. If you have time to spare (although this isn’t essential), sit the goose in a sink, then slowly and carefully pour over 3 kettles of boiling water. Dry with kitchen paper, then leave for 1hr to dry completely. This will help the skin to crisp. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/ gas 6. Season the goose cavity with salt and pepper and stuff with the oranges, bay leaves and thyme. Rub the breast and legs with 2tbsp oil and season generously with salt. Lay the carrots in the middle of a very large roasting tin. Sit the bird the right way up on top of the carrots. In a bowl, toss the parsnips and turnips with the rest of the oil and bay leaves, then scatter around the goose. Cover the tin with a large piece of foil, scrunching it up at the sides so it’s a tight ﬁt. Place the goose in the oven for 1½hrs. Take the goose out of the oven.

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:28

Pecan Meringue with Mulled Pears Remove the foil and carefully use a baster to suck out most of the fat from the tin into a bowl (it’s great used for roasting potatoes). Lightly baste the goose and turn the parsnips. Re-cover with foil and roast for another 1½hrs. Suck the fat from the pan again and baste, then increase the heat to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Return to the oven without any foil to brown for a final 30-40mins. Remove the goose from the oven and transfer to a large board or platter to rest in a warmish place for 30mins. Scoop the vegetables out into another roasting tin and keep warm in a low oven. Keep the goose tin to finish making the gravy in. For the apples, mix the cranberry sauce and cranberries in a bowl. Cut a thin slice off the bottom of the apples. Score the skin all round their middles, then tunnel out the stalks and cores. Stand the apples on a shallow baking tray. Pile the cranberry mix into the cavities, top with a dot of butter and scatter over the sugar. While the goose is resting, increase the oven to fan 180C/conventional 200C/gas 6. Bake the apples for 20-30 minutes until soft and starting to split and the cranberries are oozing juice. To make the gravy, remove the oranges from the goose. Pour off all the fat from the roasting tin into a bowl. Scatter the sugar into the tin and stir to scrape off any tasty brown bits. Splash in the vinegar, simmer down until practically dry, then stir in the jelly to dissolve, bubble and cook down. Finally, add the stock and squeeze in the juice from the oranges. Bring everything to the boil, then strain into a jug or small saucepan to reheat later. Serve the goose on a platter surrounded by watercress and apples and the slow-roasted vegetables in a separate bowl.

Christmas 2013

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Ingredients: For the mulled pears: • 600ml mulled wine, ready made from a bottle • 6 small, ripe, shapely pears, peeled, quartered and cored • 50g golden caster sugar For the pecan and meringue filling: • 225g golden caster sugar • 1½ tsp cornﬂour • 4 large egg whites • 1½ tsp wine vinegar • 50g pecans, roughly chopped • 500g tub Greek yogurt • 4 tbsp dulce de leche • extra toasted pecans (optional) Method: Put the wine, pears and sugar in a pan and simmer for 10mins. Heat oven to 160C / 140C / gas 3. Draw a 25cm circle on a sheet of baking parchment, then put on a baking sheet. Stir 225g sugar and cornﬂour together in a jug. Whisk the egg whites until stiff, then whisk in the sugar mixture, a tbsp at a time, until thick and glossy. Fold in vinegar and half the nuts, then pile mixture onto the circle, building up the edges to make a ‘nest’. Scatter with rest of pecans then put in oven, turning the temperature down to 150C/fan 130C/ gas 2. Bake for 1hr, then turn oven off and cool inside for 1hr. Serve with the sliced pears on top. w w w.goodfood.com

05/11/2013 14:29

Delivered to your door With entertaining and Christmas dinner just around the corner, here are four cost effective and local ways to get your ingredients right to your doorstep. The Farmer’s Box

Manic Organic

Lancashire Produce

Brighter Living Partnership

The Farmer’s Box is a home delivery service based in Ormskirk. They deliver boxes of fruit and organic vegetables, fresh and direct from the grower, across West Lancashire, Liverpool, Southport, Cheshire and Manchester. Buying organic vegetables direct from your local farm means fresher produce for you and by cutting out the supermarket chain, better prices! Each week they put different vegetables into the boxes, depending on the season and weather. Fresh organic vegetables delivered direct to your door, from field to table within 24 hours of harvest!

All the home-grown produce is certified organic by the Soil Association (GB5). What they don’t grow themselves, they source from other local organic growers whenever possible. From time to time they do sell speciality local produce that is not certified organic, such as Formby asparagus, Scarisbrick tomatoes and Tarleton strawberries. This is to reduce ‘food miles’ for local shoppers on these particular products. The delivery round covers areas along Southport Road, Scarisbrick New Road and Southport Town Centre. They also deliver to Churchtown, High Park, Marshside and Crossens. Minimum order value for these areas is just £15!

Based in Burscough, Scarisbrick and Southport, Lancashire Produce are specialists in the supply and delivery of fresh fruit and vegetables to the catering market and the public. With bases in Burscough, Scarisbrick and Southport they are in easy reach to all customers to be delivered to. They have a stall at Southport Indoor Market named Mrs G The Greengrocer which offers a complete range of fruit, vegetables, salads, exotics, eggs and much more. The produce is sourced daily from local farmers and growers to ensure absolute freshness at all times They also work with local importers to bring quality exotics to the stall within hours of landing in the UK.

Working in deprived communities or targeting those with limited access to fresh fruit and vegetables, the Brighter Living Partnership have a number of fruit and vegetable co-operatives that can be accessed by any member of the public. At the fruit and vegetable co-ops you can purchase fresh, locally sourced (where possible) bags of veg, fruit and salad. All bags are very reasonably priced. You can also order bags at the following children’s centres in North Sefton: Parenting 2000, Bishop David Sheppard, Linaker, Farnborough Road and Freshfield. They can deliver produce in Crossens, Churchtown, Marshshide, Birkdale, Central Southport, Ainsdale and Formby. There is a 25p delivery charge up to a maximum of £1 per delivery.

www.thefarmersbox.co.uk

www.manicorganic.co.uk

www.lancashireproduce.com

www.brighterliving.org.uk

Delivered To You Door.indd 1

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:32

Briars Hall … The perfect package Originally an 18th century country manor house, Briars Hall in Lathom has long been considered one of the top wedding and event venues in the North West. Stacked with history, the present hall was

fund raising events, through to smaller family

constructed in 1745 and first occupied by the

occasions and celebrations. Our staff have a

Ashton family whose name can still be seen

huge amount of experience in event planning

inscribed on the front of the hotel to this

and can make your day very special.”

very day. Acquired by the Ainscough family in

The hall is also home to the newly

1902, they ran a highly successful stud farm

refurbished Stone’s restaurant which offers

for shire horses at the hall and many accolades

an a la carte menu and a high quality country

were attributed to them. In more recent times

house cuisine for casual diners.

Ginger McCain has grazed some of the finest horses in the hotel grounds.

including The Vincent, The Warehouse, Botanic

yet offers the modern comforts and facilities

Bistro, The Office and The Auberge where he

that guests now expect and enjoy.

was able to learn a multitude of cooking styles

in five acres of gardens and woodland, the

Briars Hall The perfect package.indd 2

experience at local hotels and restaurants

Today, the hotel still boasts the charm of old

The beautiful country house is situated

Christmas 2013

Head chef Peter Haigh has sixteen years

from many chefs who operated in the kitchens mentioned.

perfect setting for a wedding. The hall is the

Peter says, “I have been exceptionally lucky

suitable for business or leisure and as owner

in my catering career and have worked with

Paul Dunbavin says: “We can adapt quite easily

some very talented chefs which enabled me to

to cater for many different events including

learn so much about good food preparation

weddings, civil ceremonies, charity galas and

and presentation.“

05/11/2013 08:37

HH H

West Lancashire’s Premier Wedding & Function Venue

Christmas Dates for the Diary

Days and Nights of Good Food and Entertainment

AFTERNOON CABARETS WITH BINGO 3 Course Meal plus Coffee, Bingo and Entertainment Dates available from 25th November -19th December

Monday - Friday with a different act each week only

£14.95

FESTIVE PARTY NIGHTS WITH CABARET & DISCO

Peter continues, “When I was offered the position of head

Three course dinner plus coffee & mince pies to include a glass of wine on arrival FROM £29.95

chef I felt it was perfect for me and was just the right setting

Don’t Miss Out on Briars Hall’s BEST EVER Party Nights

to demonstrate the food styles I like which are modern and

CHRISTMAS FAYRE

seasonally inspired English and French cuisine. We run a

Three course menu plus coffee and mince pies £16.95

broad menu with all the bistro pub classics you would expect

Available 12-3pm Daily & Sunday - Thursday Evenings 5-9pm

and then we have some fun with our special boards where

CHRISTMAS DAY

Six Course Lunch 2 sittings 1pm or 1.30pm Prompt £67.50 per person, Pre-Teens £32.50, Under 5’s £12.95

we get the chance to put some more adventurous dishes on.”

BOXING DAY

specials boards which change almost daily offering a choice

The hotel’s daytime and evening menus run along side the

Four Course Lunch Sittings at 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm & 5.30pm

of freshly prepared dishes complemented by the hotels

£24.95 per person

broad choice of world wines.

NEW YEARS EVE - £55 per person

The conservatory area of the restaurant overlooks a

Five Course Dinner Dance, Bucks Fizz on Arrival, Cabaret and Disco

waterfall garden and local parkland belonging to the hotel

Please visit the website for a brochure

and offers the perfect backdrop on a summer’s day.

FOOD SERVED DAILY

IN OUR NEWLY REFURBISHED BAR 11am-11pm

Adjoining the restaurant is the hotel’s lounge with a

2 OR 3 COURSE SPECIAL LUNCH £6.50/£7.50

warm and relaxing atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a drink

Served 12 - 3pm only • Available Monday - Saturday

before or after your meal.

Why not take advantage of our

WINE OFFER?

Spend £30 on food and receive one of our exclusive wines off our wine list for just £10 Available Monday - Friday

SUNDAY LUNCH MENU

Offering you a choice of kitchen carved meats 1 Course £9.25, 2 Course £12.50 3 Course £14.95 Available all day Sunday 12 noon till 8pm

2 OR 3 COURSE TDH EVENING MENU Available 5pm - 9pm

£12.95/£15.95

Also don’t miss out on our great quality weekly changing specials NON-RESIDENTS WELCOME - ALL EVENTS CATERED FOR

Briars Lane, Lathom L40 5TH

H Tel. 01704 892368

H Hemailwww.briarshallhotel.co.uk info@briarshallhotel.co.uk H

H 1123244

Briars Hall The perfect package.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 14:20

Although up-market, offering a luxury

longer breaks. Included is bottled water, tea

service, weddings and events can be tailored to

and coffee making facilities, hair dryer and free

suit all budgets enabling anyone to have their

wireless internet access.

special day at the hall. The Classic wedding package costs just

Christmas entertainment, big band nights and

£3,500 and includes a wedding breakfast for 40

cabaret, all which are very successful and have

guests, evening buffet for 100 guests, drinks on

guests out of their seats and dancing!

arrival and during the meal and the honeymoon

Paul adds, “Our job is to make sure all our

suite for the happy couple of the wedding night.

guests, whether it is their wedding day, they are

General Manager Paul adds, “Although

staying for a night, or they are simply enjoying

very sought after, we still want the hall to be

an evening meal with us, have a great time

available to anyone who wishes to spend their

and want to come back again. With beautiful

wedding day here and so we have put together

scenery, regular events, the newly refurbished

packages which will suit all couples without

restaurant with a great menu and value for

breaking the bank.”

money wedding packages we feel the hall is

Briars Hall also has 25 luxurious en-suite rooms which perfect for short stopovers or

Christmas 2013

Briars Hall The perfect package.indd 4

The hall also has regular events including

the perfect place to come, whatever you are celebrating.”

05/11/2013 08:39

A CUT ABOVE THE REST Unlock the value of your assets at Suttons & Robertsons. We can provide £10,000 in cash within an hour and have the financial resources to secure loans up to £1million. V I S I T O N E O F O U R S TO R E S F O R A F R E E VA LUAT I O N

LO N D O N

BIRMINGHAM

MANCHESTER

LIVERPOOL

BRISTOL

ST ALBANS

084 4692 4990

084 4692 4994

084 4692 4993

084 4692 3940

084 4846 7111

084 4692 3939

www.suttonsandrobertsons.com

1123187

THE CUSTOMER WILL BE REQUIRED TO ENTER INTO A PAWNBROKING AGREEMENT WHERE THEIR ASSET WILL BE TAKEN AS SECURITY FOR THE LOAN. ALL CUSTOMERS MUST BE OVER 18. REGISTERED IN ENGLAND AS A TRADING NAME OF T.M.SUTTON LIMITED. REGISTERED ADDRESS 6TH FLOOR, 77 GRACECHURCH STREET, LONDON, EC3V 0AS. REGISTERED NO. 283556.

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16/10/2013 05/11/2013 13:04 08:42

Pawnbroking as it should be

Suttons & Robertsons launched in Liverpool at the start of 2012 with a new store on North John Street in the city The brand, which is London’s longest

to provide some liquidity for an opportunity,

standing pawnbroker, is well respected and

to bolster an irregular income or provide

offers a high-end pawnbroking experience

emergency funds. They benefit from lower

to the business world, professionals and

interest rates and more flexible repayment plans

entrepreneurs; a service that is currently

than with other forms of borrowing and there is

picking up the trendy term of ‘Posh Pawn’ in

no set up fee or locked-in weighty redemption

the press.

penalties. Typically, for loans secured against

Secured lending from pawnbrokers is a

Jewellery, Diamonds, Gold, Watches or Silver,

fast growing alternative to conventional

we can provide up to £10,000 in cash within an

methods of borrowing and an increase in

hour. For larger sums, we can transfer the funds

the number of high value pledges is, in

within 24 hours. We have the financial resources

part, down to the financial constraints

to provide secured loans up to £1million.

being felt even amongst the wealthy. The Liverpool store manager Cliff

increase in their car lending in the last year.

Simpson says, “Our clients require loans

Cliff adds, “We are pleased to offer loans on

for many reasons; to support their

Classic and Prestige cars, with the vehicle being

business working capital requirements, Christmas 2013

Pawnbroking as it should be.indd 2

Suttons & Robertsons have also seen a big

used as security for the loan.” 35

05/11/2013 08:43

“Typically we will use a specialist from the vehicle trade to make an initial assessment of the vehicle’s trade value based on the make, model, age and condition. We may be able to use what comparable vehicles commanded in recent sales to make sure you get the best value and highest possible loan value for your vehicle. All our clients’ vehicles are washed and valeted at no cost to them, before being placed under a protective cover and stored in a specialised car storage facility for the duration of the loan.” 36

Pawnbroking as it should be.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:46

Pawnbroking as it should be

Pawnbroking has become a means of borrowing to business as well as individuals as a means to floating the payroll and buying stock, whilst waiting for revenue to come in. For more details on all Sutton and Robertsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pawnbroking services visit www.suttonsandrobertsons.com â&#x20AC;Ś pop by the Liverpool store on 28 North John Street, Liverpool, L2 9RU or call 084 4692 3940 Christmas 2013

Pawnbroking as it should be.indd 4

05/11/2013 08:44

All under one roof We all love eating out and many of us enjoy nothing better than a pampering session to help us relax and unwind. The Lavender House Spa, which opened at the end of October, combines spa treatments with a restaurant, offering anything from a snack up to a three course meal. Gr8Life talks to co-owner Clare Norris about the family business. With a wealth of talent within the family, it would seem silly not to use it to its full potential.

two businesses side by side. We have drawn on our strengths to create the perfect business.” The spa, although now a beautiful and

Sisters Clare Norris and Helen Tesseyman

luxurious area to relax in, was not always this

have huge experience in the catering and

way and the family had a lot of work to do

beauty industries with Clare having taught

before it resembled anything like it does now.

hospitality for over 15 years and until recently,

Clare adds, “The building had previously

a curriculum leader for hospitality at Southport

been offices. There was no structural work to

College. Helen is a Level 3 qualified beauty

do, but we have completely overhauled every

therapist and has a successful mobile business.

room. We were hoping to achieve an exclusive

Along with their parents, David and Marilyn,

day spa and it has taken a great deal of

who have run a hotel in the Lake District and

precision and planning to ensure it meets our

have had several successful businesses since the

high standards - very stressful, but worth it!”

1970’s, they are opening up The Lavender House

The spa will house a 36 seater restaurant

Spa on Manchester Road and will be using their

- open both to the public and the spa guests

expertise to offer a wide range of services.

serving homemade, high quality fayre.

Clare says, “Mum and Dad have had their

Clare adds, “The chef is a former student of

own businesses since 1973 and have always

Southport College and has worked in a variety

been successful. Mum first came up with the

of notable local businesses. We are passionate

idea after finding a perfect property to house

about serving high quality food and pride

a spa and a restaurant. It seemed an ideal

ourselves on exceptional customer service and

opportunity to home in on our skills and run the

comfort. The restaurant manager was a student

All under one roof.indd 1

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:49

The Lavender House Spa and Restaurant 3 Manchester Road, Southport PR9 9EP Telephone: 01704 531400

of mine when I taught at Southport College.

luxury post treatment sleep room with chaises

She was an exceptional student and won

longues and a sumptuous day room.”

Southport College Student of the Year and the

Other treatments include, Lycon wax,

local Ambassador Awards so I am confident she

shellac, vinylux nails, luxury spa pedicures,

will be a great addition to the team.”

Pevonia, facials, lava shell massages, body

The spa will be offering many treatments

wraps (including the shrinking violet inch

including a herbal sauna, rasul mud temple,

loss wrap) and various eye treatments so you

aromatherapy/salt inhalation room and luxury

can literally be treated from top to toe. So

treatments by Pevonia.

what will make Lavender House different to

Clare says, “At The Lavender House we offer a range of luxurious, sophisticated and holistic

Clare answers, “We are all highly qualified,

face and body treatments by Pevonia Botanica,

providing outstanding customer care and

an elite spa care line, chosen by prestigious

treatments.

spas worldwide.

and pampered! We also have the restaurant on-

skin care products containing nature’s purest,

site offering clients high quality food before,

holistic botanical and marine elements, to

after, or in-between their pampering!”

deliver outstanding visible results and an

She adds, “We want to be well known

unsurpassed spa experience. As a spa, we will

within the area with a great reputation and so

have exclusive use of the Pevonia range within

will do all we can to achieve this.”

“We have three dual treatment rooms, a

All under one roof.indd 2

We want our guests to feel completely relaxed

“Pevonia Botanica offers a full range of

100 miles of Southport!

Christmas 2013

other spas?

Packages are available including full day, half day, twilight and exclusive use. 39

05/11/2013 08:50

CPR139_Wayf_Xmas_G8_Life_CPR139_Wayf_Xmas_G8_Life 25/10/2013 10:32 Page 2

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade

...just as it should be!

You can enjoy a magical shopping experience this Christmas at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, home to 30 independent shops. There is something for all the family whether you are looking for festive fashions or gorgeous gifts the variety of shops that this Victorian arcade has to offer will not disappoint. Wayfarers Shopping Arcade is also home to two independent cafés so you can spend the day shopping and relaxing with morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea whilst you enjoy the music and the beautiful surroundings. Santa is back this Christmas and will make himself ‘at home’ in his magical grotto every Saturday and Sunday from Saturday 30th November and also on Monday 23rd December and Christmas Eve.

In the centre of Lord St. opposite the Town Hall.

www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk

Monday to Saturday 9am – 5.30pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm 99

wayfarers dps.indd 1

115 YEARS

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:52

Christmas begins at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade You can discover all that Christmas has to offer over the festive period at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade. Visitors

can

destination

delve

packed

into full

of it. While having a break from

shopping you can enjoy a morning

independent retailers and unique

coffee in Saveurs de France and

boutiques selling gorgeous gifts and

experience authentic French-style

beautiful fashions. Located at the

light bites and pastries. Or you

heart of Southport’s Lord Street, this

could enjoy lunch or afternoon tea

stunning Grade II listed Victorian

in the award winning bistro style

style arcade offers contemporary

café Pudding & Pie, known locally

style in traditional surroundings and

for serving traditional British home

will cater to your every retail need.

cooked meals.

If you’re looking for something to

Everyone knows Christmas has

keep the family entertained, whilst

started when the halls are decked

indulging in a spot of Christmas

with Christmas decorations and

shopping, Saturday, November 30,

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade certainly

will see Santa take up residence at his

pulls out all the stops. With a full-size

magical grotto within the arcade. The

Christmas tree and decorations from

grotto is open every Saturday and

pillar to post, you will undoubtedly

Sunday in December and on Monday,

be in the celebratory mood.

December 23, from 11am – 4pm and

Nicola Lynch, managing director,

Christmas Eve, from 11am – 2pm.

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, said,

There is a special present for every

“Christmas is a very special time of

child that visits Santa, an experience

year and here at Wayfarers we like

that children dream about and a

to provide something for everyone.

little piece of magic to take away for

Our shops help you find everything

visiting Wayfarers Shopping Arcade.

you need to get you in the Christmas

A good old fashioned singalong always gets people into the

spirit whether it is gifts, toys, clothing or delicious food!

celebratory spirit and at the same

concert

December 21, will see the Julie Ann

Christmas

Carr singers perform a carol concert

and fill the arcade with well-known

Wayfarers to make Christmas just as

festive favourites from 2 – 4pm.

it should be.”

There

are

wayfarers dps.indd 2

tree

the and

decorations

beautiful surrounded really

help

independent

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade is dedicated to providing not only a

wonderful shopping experience but

Wayfarers

two

the

around

cafés under the spectacular roof Shopping

Arcade

meaning you can really make a day Christmas 2013

“The fantastic Christmas carol

time provides hours of fun. Saturday,

also a fun and festive day out. 41

05/11/2013 08:52

1123965

20 years designing and manufacturing the highest quality

soft furnishings

AVAILABLE AT: Candle Delight 32 Wayfarers Arcade Lord Street Southport PR8 1NT

SUPERB INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE Highest level of quality Personal consultation - home visits available Large selection of fabrics Reliable, imaginative and creative

Tel 01704 620894

1123801

71 Alma Road, Birkdale , Southport, PR9 4BL T: 01704 568449 • www.stewart-interiors.co.uk E: enquiries@stewart-interiors.co.uk

The

Barber Shoppe Sewing

Like & Knitting? You will be amazed at our fabulous range of FABRICS, WOOLS and HABERDASHERY

42.indd 1

GENTS HAIRDRESSING What makes us the place to visit is our friendly and welcoming staff who are willing and able to meet your hairdressing needs. With Sky TV, free parking and no booking required. Why not call in and see for yourself?

Voted by our customers as “The best in the North West”

1123931

1123677

Stockists of King Cole & Sirdar knitting yarns

85 Sandon Rd, Hillside Parade, Southport (Just 2 minutes from Hillside Station) Tel 01704 553966

The home of up to date fashion

Hairdressers Council State Registered Barber 86 Shakespeare Street, Southport, PR8 5AJ

Telephone: 01704 539 555

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 18:34

Your Perfect Christmas

Gift Guide Deciding what you want for Christmas can be a challenge, whether it is because there is too much choice or a lack of inspiration. However, nothing is more difficult than deciding what to buy friends, family and most importantly, the kids. Fear not â&#x20AC;Ś help is at hand from Dobbies Garden Centre who have put together the perfect gift guide for anyone who is feeling rather under or overwhelmed with their Christmas present options. Everyone will find something they fancy, from hampers to house dĂŠcor and soft furnishings to stockings and fortune teller miracle fish!

So, get yourself a cup of tea, or even better, a hot chocolate, relax and spend half an hour planning your Christmas gifts, not just for others but you too! Christmas 2013

Your perfect Christmas gift guide.indd 2

05/11/2013 08:56

Seriously Spoilt Hamper

£30

The Bakers Bowl Hamper

£25

White Cyclamen in Cable Knit Pot

£8

Dobbies Silver Lanterns

£3 each

Dobbies Reindeer Photoframe

£6

Red Glittered Poinsettia in glass pot £8

Dobbies Tartan Stocking Large

£10

Dobbies Stag Cushion £38 44

Your perfect Christmas gift guide.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 08:57

Dobbies Fringe Throw

The Best of British Hamper

£30

£80

Dobbies White & Silver Vase

£15

Dobbies Glitz Cushion

Brewers Hamper £15

Generous Gardener Hamper

Dobbies Frosted Tree with LED lights 60cm £25

£14 each

Dobbies Dog Cushion

£29

£30

Christmas 2013

Your perfect Christmas gift guide.indd 4

05/11/2013 08:59

For the Kids

40 9

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05/11/2013 08:59

Your perfect Christmas gift guide.indd 5

Gr8Life Magazine

r ide Gl ion ly ect Po oll C

at Dobbies

Christmas Events at Dobbies

Experience the magic of a Dobbies Christmas. It’s the most magical place to visit at Christmas time with fun and festive inspiration for the whole family. With Santa parties, a Ladies Night, live carol performances; along with sampling tasty festive treats and inspiring demonstrations to make Christmas go without a hitch, let Dobbies make your Christmas magical.

Up ind per W op e H 25 ac Sp 2.

Santas Arrival at Dobbies!

Sunday 17th November, 11am* Come along and be part of the most magical day of the year when Santa arrives at Dobbies accompanied by a parade of festive characters. There will be fun and festive entertainment galore – with something for the whole family to enjoy.

Santa’s Grotto

From Sunday 17th November to Tuesday 24th December

Ll ck Ba an V

The elves have been busy preparing all the toys in the workshop ready for your little ones to visit Santa in his traditional grotto! Don’t forget to buy your ticket as Santa can be a very busy man indeed! Tickets are £6 and can be booked online at www.dobbies.com

Ladies Night

Thursday 28th November, 5pm – 9pm

ing mp ns Ju Bea

Dobbies Southport:

Benthams Way, PR8 4HX. Tel: 01704 552920. Christmas 2013

Your perfect Christmas gift guide.indd 6

Don’t miss the event of the year – the ultimate shopping evening for the girls. With hampers and champers, beautiful new gift ranges and dazzling decorations we have everything you need to ensure a flawless Christmas. You’ll receive a free pamper session, a glass of fizz and canapés on arrival plus inspirational demonstrations including; Designing festive wreaths and garlands with a rustic spin and creating fresh foliage table decorations. Make sure you’re there and tell all your friends. Tickets cost just £1 and all proceeds will be donated to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK.

Santa’s Post Box Throughout December It’s nearly Christmas! Children can post their special letters to Santa in our North Pole Post Box. Santa is looking forward to replying to all the letters – don’t forget to pick up your reply the next time you visit!

Breakfast and Supper with Santa From Saturday 30th November £9.95 per child Santa will be ho-ho-hosting breakfast and suppers for kiddies in our restaurants and he will even be taking part in Christmas party games. Book your place now – and why not bring some friends too? Check with your local Dobbies for available event dates.

Little Seedlings Christmas Party Sunday 1st December The boys and girls in the Dobbies Little Seedlings Club are getting out their party shoes and dresses ready to get into the party spirit. There will be fun and games for all and even a little visit from Santa! Please remember that children attending this event must be accompanied by an adult for the duration. Check with your local Dobbies store for event time.

Dobbies Festive Foodies Thursday the 5th of December 5pm-8pm Perfect if you are a food lover – our experts will show you how to ensure your Christmas entertaining goes with a bang. Enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival, sample our finest delicacies and watch our exciting demonstrations including inspiring ideas for your Christmas dinner and choosing the perfect Christmas cheese board Tickets cost £1 and all proceeds will be donated to Make-A-Wish Foundation UK. 47

05/11/2013 08:59

The Bold Hotel The Bold Hotel on Lord Street has now completed the latest phase of its refurbishment project, which has transformed the ground floor into an open plan dining and bar area with traditional snug. The Bold’s new winter menu is available from Thursday October 24 offering home made locally sourced, traditional British classics, along with a range of nibbles, sharing platters, small plates, sandwiches and salads.

modern facilities and values. Its professional, friendly and dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service standards. In addition to providing comfortable and affordable

The new menu also features a range of daily specials and

accommodation,

the

refurbished

banqueting

suite

the hotel’s popular carvery is served Monday to Saturday

accommodates up to 200 people. Celebrate in style: Birthdays,

12-3pm and Sunday 12-6pm. Come and enjoy a pre-work

engagements, weddings, christenings, retirements and

breakfast, The Bold welcomes non-residents from 8am.

clubs and societies. The function room is also fully equipped

The hotel offers something simple, something special, and

to provide for business meetings and conferences.

something for everyone.

This Christmas, The Bold Hotel is hosting various

The hotel takes pride in retaining the traditional service and atmosphere of its Victorian origins whilst also offering

Christmas parties throughout December for groups of 2-200, bookings now being taken.

THE BOLD HOTEL - SOUTHPORT THIS CHRISTMAS AT THE BOLD D

Bring your Party to our Party Christmas Dinner & Dance Nights keeping you dancing til 12.30am

£25PP CHRISTMAS CARVERY LUNCHES Served Everyday

Complimentary Glass of Mulled Wine for all pre-booked parties

NOW

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH B FULLY OOKED NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA DINNER & DANCE £49.95PP

BOXING DAY CARVERY LUNCH Thursday 26th December 2013 • 12 - 4pm 4 Courses

Adults £19.95 Children (under 12) £10.00

SANTA’S FAMILY FUN DAY

The Bold looks forward to welcoming all those good little children to an afternoon filled with food, games, balloons & dancing with just a little magic from the amazing Charlie

Sunday 8th December 2013 Buffet Meal £10.00PP Sunday 15th December 2013 2 Course Carvery £12.00PP

583 LORD STREET I SOUTHPORT T PR9 OB OBE E I FO FOR ENQUIRIES AND RESERVATIONS T: 01704 532578 I E: INFO@BOLDHOTEL.COM I WWW.BOLDHOTEL.COM 48

The Bold Hotel.indd 1

1123453 453

FESTIVE PARTY NIGHTS Saturday 7th, 13th & 20th December 2013 3 Courses - Enjoy your night with our DJ

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 13:23

ALL THAT SPARKLES … For many, celebrations need extra sparkle in the form of a glass or three of champagne. In February 2013, champagne’s annual sales in the

particular type of wine has shown a remarkable

UK were £320 million worth,

growth in 2012, simply because of its

a sizeable sum. Only a few

marked similarity to Champagne in taste and

years ago, champagne seemed

appearance.

reserved to the cognoscenti, the

per bottle, the attraction is obvious. And let us

wants a superstar lifestyle and

also understand that the sparkling wine market

champagne is part of the illusion.

outstripped champagne sales by more than £80

taking its toll, many people are looking for cheaper alternatives. Let’s face it, a few may know their Bollinger from their Perrier Jouet but most of us are happy as long as it is cold, sparkling and tastes nice. Champagne can also bring shudders for a lot of folks. We have all been given vaguely warm stuff at parties, “champagnes” that strip your teeth of their enamel and bring on savage bouts of indigestion. Finding a decent champagne today is not

million in 2012. The method by which Prosecco is made is a similar one to Champagne. It is fermentation based and a decent Prosecco has to be a much better option than many a cheap Champagne. A few years ago, Cava was the budget drink of choice but because of the many supermarket cheap offers and below par contenders, the Spanish wine has lost its sparkle for many of us. However, because a 75cl bottle only goes so far, the question is... how to make champagne go further? Or Prosecco even?

as difficult as it used to be nor is it as expensive

Cocktails are the perfect answer.

as it once was. But obviously, at this time of the

But, unlike spirit based concoctions, where

year, with all the other expenses that are on the

strong ingredients can happily live together

agenda, a £30 bottle of champagne is not the

in the same glass, champagne does not lend

priority for most of us.

itself to too many combinations, as its light

We all know Cava, sparkling whites, Asti.... but the nearest contender to the champagne

all that sparkles.indd 2

With an average price between £6 and £10

foodies or the rich. Now, everyone

However, with the recession

Christmas 2013

throne is its Italian cousin, Prosecco. This

biscuit and cream taste and bubbles are soon overpowered. 49

05/11/2013 09:24

SHOEMASTER Quality Shoe Repairs and Key Cutting Service

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Don’t let it go warm. There are no ifs or 1123970

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Always serve your champagne chilled.

(opp Coronation Pub)

buts, it has to be cold! But TOO cold is also a mistake as it will mask the delicate flavours quickly. Don’t chill the glasses beforehand, but do use a wine cooler. If you have some champagne leftover (really???) drop a metal spoon’s handle in the bottle’s neck. Some say it works, some swear it doesn’t ... as far as we are concerned, it does work, though only for a few hours. And anyway who keeps

Something missing in your life?

unopened champagne for that long? If you insist in serving the real McCoy, but are on a limited budget, here’s another little trick. Make sure the first glass you serve is the real deal... people should not

Why not look after someone’s dog while they’re away. Become a host with Barking

notice a lesser fizz on a second round. Finally ... when you open a bottle

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don’t aim at the window or light fittings. “Popping” the cork is not that cool and

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all that sparkles.indd 3

the foil and muselet (that’s the wire cage around the cork) and, with a tea towel, just 1124003

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can be downright dangerous. Just remove

twist the cork off gently. It should open with a gentle sigh ... Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 14:19

CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL

BELLINI CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL

This is a delicious, old-fashioned drink that deserves to be rediscovered. Made with relatively simple ingredients, it packs a subtle punch. Beware.

Another great classic which started life in Harry’s bar in Venice as far back as 1934 by Italian bartender Giuseppe Cipriani. Though it generally advocates to use “perfectly ripe” peaches, we like the taste of tinned peaches. Use the natural juice variety if at all possible.

INGREDIENTS (FOR ONE HELPING)

• 1 white sugar cube • 2 dashes of Bitters (Angostura is available in most supermarkets) • 20 ml of Cognac • Champagne

HOW TO:

Place the sugar cube on a spoon and soak in the bitters. Place the cube at the bottom of a champagne glass and add the cognac. Top with very chilled champagne. Serve straight away.

INGREDIENTS (FOR TWO FLUTES)

• 4 tinned peach halves • Champagne

HOW TO:

Puree the peaches in a blender (you can do that in advance) Place half in a flute and top with champagne. Ideally you are looking for a third of peach to two thirds of champagne. Serve chilled.

SOYER AU CHAMPAGNE The ultimate decadence. Half drink, half dessert and absolutely amazing! Though champagne does not blend happily with very strong flavours, this is one exception to the rule. INGREDIENTS (FOR ONE HELPING)

• 1 tablespoon of Cognac • 1 tablespoon of Orange liqueur • 1 tablespoon of Maraschino cherry or liqueur • 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream (best quality possible) • Champagne • Grated nutmeg

HOW TO:

Pour cognac, orange and cherry liqueur into a mixing glass. Add a handful of ice and stir. Place a scoop of ice cream in a large glass and strain the cocktail over it. Top up with Champagne and grated nutmeg to taste.

Christmas 2013

all that sparkles.indd 4

05/11/2013 09:25

The Pottery Barn at Checkers

From cups, to teapots, to aprons, crockery and every kitchen utensil you could think of, The Pottery Barn is a jewel in Churchtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crown and also stocks quirky brands and pieces you may not find in the big department stores.

1123369

Checkers of Churchtown was established over twenty years ago and the family run business has been going strong ever since. Recently it was refurbished and now includes a fantastic homeware section alongside its other departments.

The Pottery Barn.indd 1

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:28

It’s NEVER too late to FOLLOW your DREAM Actress Sally Bankes has lived in Southport all her life but is now somewhat of a celebrity around these parts. She has appeared on countless television programmes and has spent much of this year touring with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Gr8Life recently talked to her about her life before acting and her hopes for the future. Once Sally had decided that acting is what

I realised that life was very short. At that time

she wanted to do, it took her a grand total of

I had two regrets in my life, one that I’d never

25 years to take the plunge. Although in several

married and had children and the second was

youth theatres from the age of 11 she worked

that I hadn’t been brave enough to pursue my

at her local NatWest bank for 20 years because,

dream and take up my present career. I made

understandably, it was the ‘safer’ option.

plans for 12 months and then went for it in July

However, in 1999 Sally decided to follow her

1999. I was, at that time, branch manager at

dream and the rest they say, is history!

the Ormskirk Branch but was teaching drama

“My route in was unusual,” Sally explains.

in my spare time and enjoyed playing several

“I was 36 and lost a friend to cancer at 30

great roles a year in plays with the Southport

and my mum was diagnosed with hers in the

Dramatic Club at the Little Theatre.”

same year (remarkably she is still with us!) and Christmas 2013

It is never too late to follow your dream.indd 2

…/continued 53

05/11/2013 11:12

Although Sally’s parents were worried about her career change, wanting her to continue with her ‘secure’ job, all their concerns melted away in the next few years when her acting really took off. She has appeared in many well known programmes

including

Coronation

Street

opposite character Fred Elliot, two series of Little Britain, Heartbeat, Where the Heart Is, and many BBC comedies. Sally has also appeared in many children’s television programmes and several feature films. She has also acted alongside Victoria Wood, Julian Fellowes and appeared in, ‘World Without End,’ (recently seen on Channel 4), a $48 million, 14th Century

If all that wasn’t enough, Sally has also

rsc.org.uk

epic, produced by Ridley Scott.

worked with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company, a position many actors would sell their soul for. “Working for the RSC was

I still have to pinch myself every day!” Sally adds. “I was in “The Winters Tale”

imdb.com

beyond any expectation I had 14 years ago and

and have had a wonderful run at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford upon Avon every actors Wembley Stadium! There is definitely magic in that place.

I feel I have

learnt so much from the process and it has been an absolute joy.” So what is it that Sally loves about acting? She answers, “The variety, the people, the fact that I am living my dream and enjoying a modicum of success in doing so. I love what I do so there isn’t really a downside for me, maybe the fact that I can never really plan my brucejamesproductions.blogspot.com

social life ahead of time but I accept that as part of the job.” Not being able to plan your social life is just one of the obstacles when it comes to free time for an actor. 54

It is never too late to follow your dream.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:31

It’s NEVER too late to FOLLOW your DREAM Although perceived as very glamorous, acting can be extremely gruelling at times. Sally explains, “There is no pattern for your working life as an actor. On my job at the RSC we were working eight to nine hour days in rehearsal and then 13 hour days for four out of the five weeks it was running. TV hours are long and arduous too. Generally 12 to 14 hour days with very bbc.co.uk

early mornings, however the majority of that time you could be sat around and not actually filming. Patience is a virtue in this game! Sally has proved that it is never too late to follow your dream and advises budding actors

wibika.com

to never give up. “Work hard, stay focused and don’t let the disappointments get you down. You have to get the no’s to get the yes’s. Don’t expect the opportunities to come knocking at your door and be realistic about the roles you are suitable for. Be nice to everyone involved in whatever you are doing and, more than anything, always remember that nobody owes you a living. We choose to do this job and are extremely lucky when it works out.” Sally is currently appearing at The Royal Exchange in a Victoria Wood play called, “The Day We Sang,” which is a romantic love story injected with Victoria Wood’s comedic genius. The play will mean that Sally only has Christmas Day off this year but is still going to try her best to enjoy it at home in Southport. With her career ambitions being to ‘simply keep working on great projects,’ is there any chance Sally will ever leave Southport, possibly

brucejamesproductions.blogspot.com

to follow the bright lights of the West End in

Christmas 2013

It is never too late to follow your dream.indd 4

London? “Southport is home,” Sally replies. “Simple as that! I feel very well supported here and if a girl can succeed on support then I can’t fail! Family and friends make me want to stay.” 55

05/11/2013 11:11

OPEN UNTIL 9.30pm FOR LATE NIGHT SHOPPING

S P I H C & H FIS TAKE AWAY MENU FISH DINNER with Chips and Peas,

Gravy or Curry .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . £5.50

HOLLANDS PIE/PUDDING with Chips and

SAUSAGE DINNER 2 small Sausages with Chips and Peas, Gravy or Curry .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . £3.60 CHILLI CON CARNE, RICE & CHIPS . .. .. . £4.00

Fresh Cod .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. £7.00 Fresh Haddock .. .. .. .. .. .. £7.00 Fresh Plaice .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. £7.00 Breaded Scampi (12 pieces) . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. £6.00 Any Hollands Pie or Pudding with Gravy .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. £5.50

TRADITIONAL FISH AND CHIPS CHILDREN’S Chicken Breast with gravy £6.50 Just as it’s always been HAPPY MEALS .. only £2.50

CURRY, RICE & CHIPS.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. £2.80

Steak only pudding, Steak & Kidney pudding, Steak & Kidney pie, Meat pie, Meat & Potato pie, Cheese & Onion pie and Cornish Pasty.

ALL MEALS INCLUDE PEAS,

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05/11/2013 09:36

The best of the north west

The North West is home to many breweries, all producing their own unique beers, however, many of us still buy the usual well known brands at the supermarket. However, after reading David Simister’s

What better for the beer lover at Christmas

reviews of twelve of our local examples,

than several local brews, all with the most

perfect as Christmas presents, maybe you will

original names you could ever come up with?

take a chance and opt for a Collie Wobbles or a Black Cat instead.

that

You’d be forgiven for thinking

open

season

your pint Gr8Life took just a few of

us real ale enthusiasts.

ales on offer

With

pub

right here in

Government

Southport,

moves

reports

introduce

the

created

real

minimum pricing on units

b r e w e r s

of alcohol, and TV experts

a c r o s s

forever telling us what

M e r s e y s i d e,

we can and can’t have,

Lancashire and

the days for people who

Cumbria, just to

enjoy beer seem as dark as a pint of stout. But the good news

Beer The best of the north west.indd 2

flavours

had been declared on

closures,

Christmas 2013

To show you that variety really is the spice

see what’s out there to tempt your taste buds. A lot of it’s down to

is that there are hundreds of different beers

individual taste, with there being a dazzling

on offer, including many brewed right here in

array of different flavours, aromas and strengths

the north west by enthusiasts who care just as

to play to your palette, but chances are at least

much about the final product as the people

one of this locally-brewed selection is going to

who drink the finished pint.

prove a hit with your inner CAMRA member … 57

05/11/2013 09:40

STRENGTH

3.4%

STRENGTH

3.7%

4.0%

Moorhouse Brewery Burnley, Lancashire

Watermill Inn and Brewery Co Ings, near Windermere, Cumbria

Ulverston Brewing Company Ulverston, Cumbria

Black Cat

Collie Wobbles

Laughing Gravy

They say: “A dark, malty ale with a rich, dry, chocolate malt taste”.

They say: “The original brew from our growing stable of real ales. A refreshing, light golden ale. The perfect session drink to while away the hours with a few good friends.”

They say: “A light copper beer with a balance between malt and hops, leaving a thirst-quenching aftertaste.”

We say: “Tangy with a definite chocolate aftertaste. A smoky, characterful drink which rewards those who become used to its texture and flavour”.

We say: “Fruity in scent with a warm, inviting colour. A light, bitter texture which helps this beer prove an ideal real ale introduction for those with a lighter palette.”

STRENGTH

We say: Definitely a coppery beer, with almost the same shade as a 2p piece, and with a strong smell of wheat and a lively, fizzy texture. If you’re a lager lover this refreshing, if slightly bland beer will prove a great introduction to the world of real ale.”

STRENGTH

4.0%

STRENGTH

4.0%

4.1%

Southport Brewery Southport, Merseyside

Liverpool Organic Brewery Bootle, Merseyside

Golden Sands

Ruck and Maul

They say: “Golden Sands is named after the famous Southport beach. A golden coloured bitter, triple hopped with citrus flavour.”

They say: “Brewed using only the finest Maris Otter and crystal malted barley, together with a blend of English Boadicea and Pioneer hops.”

Joseph Williamson TunnAle

We say: “The first thing that hits you is the citrus flavour, which gives it a refreshing taste. A smooth beer with an upbeat vibe, and a colour that’s actually more golden than Southport’s (now rather grassy) sands. Very moreish!”

We say: “Smells like a candy shop, with a strong, sour aftertaste which can come across as slightly sickly depending on your palette. A definite taste of grapefruit lingers at the back of the throat with this characterful ale.”

Beer The best of the north west.indd 3

They say: “A dark, malty ale with pure organic malt and traditional Golding and Fuggles hops.” We say: “Chocolatey in taste and with a dark, inviting hue surely inspired by the tunnels from which this ale takes its name. TunnAle will prove an appetising companion for those who enjoy their darker ales. A likeable, rewarding drink.” Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:39

STRENGTH

4.3%

STRENGTH

4.5%

4.7%

Liverpool Organic Brewery Bootle, Merseyside

Burscough Brewery Burscough, Lancashire

George Wright Brewing Company Rainford, Merseyside

Best Bitter

Mug Billy

Cheeky Pheasant

They say: “A hoppy beer with citrus notes.”

They say: “A traditional best bitter, light and amber in colour. Easy drinking with a noticeable bitterness.”

They say: “Cheeky Pheasant is a deep golden premium ale with a gentle taste of raisin and berry fruits, combined with the richness of malty toffee. Balanced throughout with a dry, hoppy, fulfilling bitterness.”

We say: “A very light real ale with a clear amber appearance and a familiar taste, peppered with hints of citrus.”

We say: “A refreshing real ale with an inviting honey smell that shows why this West Lancashire brewery has proven popular with enthusiasts. Comes with a cloudy, bronze appearance and a bitter taste which doesn’t linger.”

STRENGTH

We say: “A rich ruby in colour and smooth in texture. This particular pheasant isn’t that cheeky but does offer a friendly, reassuring flavour which won’t offend your tastebuds.”

STRENGTH

5.1%

STRENGTH

5.5%

8.1%

Jennings Cockermouth, Cumbria

Liverpool Organic Brewery Bootle, Merseyside

Sneck Lifter

Empire Ale

Imperial Russian Stout

They say: “Relax, unwind and appreciate the wonderfully complex flavours of this award-winning, lip-smacking, strong and satisfying dark bitter.”

They say: “A strong ruby ale with a slightly sweet finish.”

They say: “A well hopped, very full bodied stout with complex malt flavours of chocolate, espresso and a hint of liquorice”

We say: “An ale which stands out due to its stouty overtones, potent fragrance and delicate mix of flavours. This Cumbrian offering proved a firm favourite with our testers, and was definitely one which we enjoyed drinking.” Christmas 2013

Beer The best of the north west.indd 4

We say: “This presents you with a strong, strawberry-chocolate scent and a bitter, slightly sweet taste. Not left wanting for potency and packed with intriguing flavours, but definitely an acquired taste.”

We say: “Not one for the faint hearted on account of its sheer strength but very drinkable and packed with inviting aromas. The liquorice flavour, in particular, becomes ever more rewarding the more you drink it.” 59

05/11/2013 09:40

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Pillowtalk also stock a large selection of stylish lighting and

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Pillowtalk.indd 1

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:43

It is not often that someone becomes a household name for their cleaning expertise – but How Clean Is Your House Kim Woodburn has managed it. The TV star is appearing in Southport’s panto Jack and the Beanstalk and here she talks to Gr8Life about her unusual career and love of Southport. Gr8Life: Your are best known as one of

‘Fairy’ is a registered trademark of Procter & Gamble

the stars of How Clean Is Your House .....

Kim: It doesn’t pressure me at all. After years of having difficulty paying the bills, cleaning and cleaning, I can tell you, when you make a few

lovely lovely shock and I loved every minute of

bob, it is great! I don’t think money is everything

it. I knew my job and I had been cleaning for so

and I’ll quote the old cliche ‘health is more

many years so it was such a pleasure to be on the

important than anything’ and of course it is.

show. Also, I was sixty-one at the time and being

When people recognise me everywhere I go,

made famous was wonderful. The first show was

even the toilets at Tesco’s, people say ‘Kim, is that

in 2003 and you just don’t know how the first

you?’ Do you know, I feel absolutely privileged. I

series is going to go. But we were an overnight

have an attitude about people who are famous

success. We were asked to go to Hollywood and

and they don’t want to speak to the public but

we were there for four months and again the

they don’t mind the money, and I think the two

following year filming. The show has also been

go together. I am thrilled to bits.

Gr8Life: Did you find a big difference

From fairy liquid to wicked fairies.indd 2

you are in the public eye?

Kim Woodburn: How wonderful, it was a

sold to so many countries

Christmas 2013

Gr8Life: Is it quite a pressure to know

Gr8Life: Would you say it’s changed you at all?

between the homes in the US and in the UK?

Kim: I am the same person that I ever was,

Kim: There wasn’t any difference at all,

it was too late to change when I was sixty-one.

honestly. I believe dirt is found everywhere. The

I have my feet on the ground, I love the fans and

only difference was when we found dirt the smell

I always carry photographs with me wherever I

could be horrible due to the heat.

go, so if they ask I have one to give.

05/11/2013 09:47

Gr8Life: Now you are coming to

Gr8Life: Panto can be hard work and you

Southport to appear in the Christmas

have a tough schedule - how clean and tidy

pantomime, you’re a Liverpool girl aren’t you?

are the other cast members?

Kim: No I’m not actually, I’m from

Kim: Well I don’t know yet but I will be

Portsmouth but I lived in Liverpool from about

inspecting I can assure you. But I always take a

16 years old until I was 42. I then went to

big kettle and a little fridge with milk and I tell

America for 11 years.

them all to just pop in and make a cup of tea

Gr8Life: Do you have any memories of

when they like, as long as I’m decent of course.

Southport from when you were in the area?

We all just muck in and have fun. I go out with

Kim: I do, I used to go to Southport, it’s a

them on our lunch breaks.

beautiful place and it hasn’t really changed, the

Pantomime is a great tradition, it’s fun, for

shopping is delightful. I’m looking forward to it

all ages, it’s just fabulous. I’m playing the wicked

very much and I know it well.

fairy, now there isn’t a wicked fairy in Jack and

My husband Pete, is from Liverpool and

The Beanstalk, but the writers decided they

that’s nearby and Chester is not far, it’s a lovely

wanted one. The panto this year also has some

place too. I worked with the same people that

great family friendly show times.

are running this pantomime last year in Grimsby, they are a lovely family. And there was me saying

Gr8Life: Are you going to be singing and dancing in this?

I would never do a pantomime two years on

Kim: Well I’m not a great dancer as you would

the run. However, when they asked me to do

have seen if you watched me on Comic Relief.

this year, I said ‘oh go on then’ because they are

I do a little but they make it very simple. I was

just so lovely to work for.

asked to go on Strictly Come Dancing in 2009 and I was asked to go in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here at the same time, so I thought the jungle would be better for me. I don’t mind being laughed with but not laughed at. Gr8Life: As somebody who is quite fastidious, how did you manage when appearing in the jungle on I’m a Celeb – Get me out of here? Kim: You have to put it to one side. You’re in the jungle and you just have to get on with it, it makes you realise what you take for granted on the outside. I also lost loads of weight which was great. I was very proud to be runner up and I was shocked and thrilled, there were five dolly birds walking around in their bikinis and there was me strutting around in my one-piece. Gr8Life: You’ve done many shows now, reality and guest appearances, have any had an impact on you? Kim: Recently I have really enjoyed doing the game shows, Mr & Mrs, The Chase and I’ve done Pointless for the second time.

From fairy liquid to wicked fairies.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:47

The first time I was out in the first round - well I’m not the brightest pebble on the beach. Do you know at 71 I can’t grumble I’m still working and having a wonderful time. Gr8Life: If your career could have been

Christmas morning? Kim: I have a good lie in, get up and put the roast dinner on then we have a quiet day. We always watch the Queen’s speech though, that’s

have liked to have done or what would you

just part of Christmas. We then have our bags of

like to do?

sweets and watch some shows on television. We

Kim: I’d like to do comedy acting. I’d love

never go out Christmas Day, we always stay in

to be a Mrs. Slocombe or Hyacinth Bouquet

on our own, we like it that way. Boxing Day we

character. I would love to have played Dame

might go to friends for a few drinks and things.

a very good script. Gr8Life: What would be your perfect gift this Christmas?

Gr8Life: Do you have any tips for cleaning the roasting tin over Christmas? Kim: Well, take some foil and put two or three layers in, even over the sides, put your oil or fat

Kim: Well, I’ve had so much luck these past

in and do your cooking and when you’re finished

few years, that I just want to keep my health,

just take out the foil and throw away, you then

that’s the only gift I would like now. I’ve started

have one clean roasting tin.

creaking a little bit now but I would love to stay fit and healthy. Gr8Life: What does Christmas mean to you? Kim: Christmas to me is a happy time at

From fairy liquid to wicked fairies.indd 4

Gr8Life: What is your routine on

anything you wanted, what would you

Maggie Smith’s part in Downton Abbey, she has

Christmas 2013

for children, it means so much to them.

Gr8Life: Last question, is there anything you can’t do with a lemon? Kim: Not much! Don’t forget when I was growing up we did not have the range of detergents that we have now.

which to reflect and make amends. It’s also a

So lemon, vinegar and salt became our

time for rejoicing for the fact that you’re on the

cleaning products. Yes I also have cleaning

earth. In my case I take time to reflect how many

products but if I can use something simple like a

Christmas’ I’ve got left! Christmas is really a time

lemon then I will. 63

05/11/2013 09:47

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:33

Christmas dinner may be the highlight but many of us are left with Turkey, potatoes and pudding sitting in the fridge waiting to be used. Make Christmas leftovers exciting with these fabulous ideas, perfect for Boxing Day and beyond.

INGREDIENTS: • 1 large onion, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 3 tbsp olive oil • 2 tsp dried oregano • 3 x cans chopped tomatoes or cherry tomatoes • 1 tbsp sugar • little splash vinegar • about 500g leftover turkey, shredded into chunks • 1 x 125g balls mozzarella • 2 handfuls fresh breadcrumbs

METHOD: Fry the onion and garlic in the oil until softened. Add the tomatoes and sugar, a little splash of vinegar and some seasoning, then simmer for 20 mins until really thick. Stir in the turkey and transfer to a baking dish. Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Tear over the mozzarella in chunks, then scatter over the breadcrumbs with a bit more ground pepper. Bake for 20 mins until turkey is piping hot through, and the top is golden and bubbling. Christmas 2013

Waste not, want not.indd 2

05/11/2013 09:50

INGREDIENTS: • 200g cooked turkey or chicken, cut into strips • 4 tbsp Hoisin sauce • 2 ﬂour tortillas • ¼ cucumber, deseeded and shredded • 4 spring onions, trimmed and ﬁnely shredded • a good handful watercress

METHOD: Heat the grill to high. Mix the turkey or chicken with half of the Hoisin sauce so that it’s coated, then spread out onto an ovenproof dish and grill until sizzling. Warm the tortillas under the grill or according to pack instructions. Spread the tortillas with the rest of the Hoisin sauce, then use to wrap up the turkey or chicken with the cucumber, onions and watercress. Cut in half and enjoy while still warm.

• How about frying up some onions and garlic, add a couple of tablespoons of sherry or brandy, stir in the turkey and then stirring in some double cream for a delicious and FLAVOURSOME BOXING DAY TREAT which can be served with pasta, rice or crusty bread. • If you’ve got lots of potatoes, sausages and bacon left, simply fry them up into a HASH (maybe add some onion and garlic) and serve it with a fried or poached egg on top for a perfect Boxing Day brunch. • Use leftover roast vegetables and meat in a FRITTATA for a lunch. You can also use leftover meat for quesadillas, risottos or pasta bakes. • Make PASTIES using leftovers. Chop up the leftover meat, potatoes, veg and stufﬁng, add a pinch of your favourite spice and then put into the middle of squares of puff pastry. Fold over, seal and brush with beaten egg and bake to make delicious pasties.

Prick 250g Cranberries a couple of times with a fork and layer up in a large sterilised Kilner jar with 175g caster sugar. Pour over vodka and leave for 2 weeks, shaking the jar each day. Strain and decant into decorative bottles. Seal and label. 66

Waste not, want not.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:50

INGREDIENTS: • 2 medium Bramley apples • 85g marzipan • 8 tbsp mincemeat or leftover Christmas pudding • 1 small lemon, ﬁnely grated zest and juice

METHOD: Cut the apples in half widthways. Remove and discard cores, then stand the apples in a microwave-safe dish. Break the marzipan into small chunks and mix with the mincemeat or pudding and lemon zest. Spoon into the centre of the apples and pour over the lemon juice. Cover the dish with cling ﬁlm, pierce several times and microwave on High for 4½ mins. If you don’t have a turntable and the apples are not cooking evenly, turn the dish halfway through.

• CHRISTMAS-PUDDING SPRING ROLLS Start by crumbling up the pudding (this can also be done with cake and marzipan). Then lay out a sheet of ﬁlo pastry and brush with melted butter. Take a portion of the crumbled pud (depending on what size you want your spring rolls to be) and place on to the pastry sheet about 4cm from the left-hand edge and roughly in the middle. Fold the left edge over the pudding ﬁlling then roll up just like a savoury spring roll. Trim down the pastry at the ends but leave enough that can be folded underneath the roll and sealed with a bit more butter. Deep-fry the rolls until golden then serve with crème fraîche and a burnt-orange dipping sauce made from caramelising brown sugar in a pan, adding orange juice and then boiling until thickened.

• CHRISTMAS CAKE ICE CREAM Crumble the fruit cake or pudding, pour over your favourite brandy, liqueur or orange juice if wanting to make non alchoholic. Allow to steep for as long as you can. Soften a tub of vanilla (or any ﬂavour really) ice cream, mix through 2 cups of fruit cake mixture and put back into ice cream tub or a mould. Serve with a sauce or custard.

• Christmas pudding or cake can be used as a great base for a TRIFLE. • Use leftover Cranberries of any other Christmas fruit and make in to SMOOTHIES for a healthy festive breakfast. Christmas 2013

Waste not, want not.indd 4

05/11/2013 09:51

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05/11/2013 15:54

David Simister tries out the Lotus Evora, a supercharged sports car that has a few surprises up its sleeve.

The deserted, sweeping ribbon of tarmac which ripples across the Derbyshire Dales was exactly what I’d been looking for so I could try out my new Christmas present (I wish.) I’d finally found a road as astonishing as the Evora itself My mission was one tinged with a touch of sadness - after five glorious days with one of the fastest and priciest cars Lotus makes, I had to take it all the way back to the factory in Norfolk to give it back, but I was in no rush, determined to eke out every mile for all it was worth. That’s how I’d found myself coursing over the Cat and Fiddle mountain pass, threading my way through Buxton and then onto a eerily empty

Photography by Cornelia Kaufmann

back road on the way out to Derby.

Christmas 2013

one for the christmas list.indd 2

05/11/2013 09:55

Devoid of other drivers and packed with

properly. On the right roads, like any of the

hairpins, they were roads reserved for cross-

mountain passes in the Lake District, it was

country blasts on sunny summer days. Yet -

sublime, but on the motorways it was a noisy

weirdly - it’s on roads entirely wrong for the

companion and once you pull over you’d do

Lotus where the Evora really shines.

your back in trying to get out.

That’s why this story begins not in the Peak

Naturally, I as tried to figure it out on the

District or even at the factory in Hethel – the

train down to Norfolk to visit Lotus’ factory, I

spiritual home of all things Lotus, from Elan to

cruelly concluded the Evora would be even

Exige – but on the M6, heading north towards

worse. A big Elise with all the drawbacks,

Coventry. The traffic jam, thanks to an accident,

but with a bit of a supercar-style traditional

has backed up for miles. It is stuffy, confined,

truculence thrown in. But it isn’t.

and frustratingly slow. There are hundreds of

It is, make no mistake, still a traditionally

drivers here who have all have one thing in

mid-engined supercar in all sorts of ways.

common. Not one of them wants to be here.

Sure, it’s easier to get into than any other Lotus

If I could choose a car to tackle these

offering, but it still requires a slightly more agile

congested conditions, it wouldn’t be a mid-

frame than most. The rear seats are next to

engined, supercharged, rear-wheel- drive, look-

useless and when you first set off, it is very, very

at-me supercar, and the Lotus Evora S is all of

wide. Oh, and the supercharged V6 is like me –

those things. It is a supercar because it goes like

endlessly reliable, but loves a drink.

a jet aircraft, corners like a go-kart and looks like something styled by a Renaissance artist, but it’s a super car because it does all this with next to none of the drawbacks. It was – and I don’t say this lightly – no harder to drive in a motorway crawl than a BMW 5-Series. I know because in a previous GR8Life adventure I drove an Elise, the modern classic which to this day can provide any motorist with a masterclass in how to do ride and handling 70

one for the christmas list.indd 3

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 09:55

The Evora also comes equipped with one

What’s more, it comes attached to one of the

of the best reversing camera systems in the

best handling cars I’ve ever driven - not, I’ll admit,

business, but you get the feeling it needs it

quite as immediate as the Elise, but somehow

because look through the rear window and

more reassuring for it. You feel absolutely

pretty much all you’ll see is the engine.

everything through the wonderfully balanced

But what an engine it is.

steering but you won’t feel it through the seat of

Yes, it might be the same basic V6 that

your pants because the ride’s far better than a low

you’ll find in the Toyota Camry but Lotus’

slung sports car’s ought to be. As a result the ride

crack team of engineers have breathed on

and handling of this thing creates a wonderful

it rather heavily to make it into a monster

conumdrum; yes, you could happily use it on the

of a mile muncher - and if you fork out for

motorway every day, but why would you when

the Evora S version I tested, they’ll bolt on a

it’s as good as it is on the twisty country lanes?

supercharger too for good measure. As you

The most energetic of the Evoras to date

surge forward on a seemingly endless wave

is neither the headbanger the Elise is nor is it

of torque you realise it’s this 3.5 litre, 345bhp

a cossetting grand tourer, but you’ll forgive it

mechanical masterpiece which completely

everything because it’s two brilliant cars in

dominates the experience, rocketing you past

one. It’s a thirsty executive express with cruise

just about everything at the subtlest flex of

control, leather seats and satnav, and a stunning

your right foot.

supercar crafted by hand by Lotus, the company that brought you the Elan and the Esprit. Oh, and it all comes in what I reckon is one of the best shapes on sale today – the Evora is still one of the best automotive shapes on offer today. As a dream car it’s right up there, and even as an everyday proposition I reckon its individuality, style and sheer punch edges it past the Jag XK and the rather obvious 911. I am off to write my grovelling letter to Santa now..

Christmas 2013

one for the christmas list.indd 4

05/11/2013 09:55

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QUALITY FIREPLACES is a family run business and has been trading for over 30 years. Started in 1979 in the Merseyside area, we soon became one of the largest fireplace retailers in the Northwest. Years later we also began making our very own solid marble surrounds, cutting the cost of buying for the public. I am delighted to announce that Quality Fireplaces has now opened a new showroom on Eastbank Street in Southport. There is no need for you to find different tradesmen - we can do the lot! We have an extensive selection of surrounds from marble, to stone, to wood, as well as stoves, gas fires, electric fires... anything you need from a fireplace! Plus all our fireplaces are fitted by our very own, fully insured, gas safe fitters. Ask about our made-to-measure service, there will be no need for you to worry about new carpets or wallpaper. If you are looking for a new fireplace, please give us a visit and discuss your requirements with one of our friendly staff members. You will find no silly sales gimmicks, just genuine, no nonsense prices, and the very best quality available.

87/89 Eastbank Street, Southport, PR8 1DG

Tel 01704 531041 Mon-Sat 9-5 • Sun 11-4

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Also at: 127-139 Breck Road, No need to redecorate or change carpets... all our surrounds are Anﬁeld L4 2QX MADE TO MEASURE! Tel 0151 263 0660 FREE No Obligation Survey for PEACE OF MIND Mon-Sat 9-5 • Sun 11-4 Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:02

The Sounds of Christmas

When all is said and done, there is nothing more evocative than a lovely Christmas album and here at Gr8Life, we love our festive sounds. However, you would be forgiven to think there is only a handful of tunes to choose from if the soundtrack in stores is anything to go by ... but you would be oh so very wrong. Here are a few suggestions, some more off the beaten track than others for those of you who fancy something different this Christmas ... There are literally hundreds of Christmas albums. Starting out in the Fifties, alongside the first long playing records, every singing star of the day used to bring out a festive album and this tradition has been upheld with singers of today doing pretty much the same. The great thing about music is that it can change or set a mood. Our suggestions are classified by genre for easy selection with a few notes to help you along â&#x20AC;Ś Christmas 2013

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CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS

MODERN CHRISTMAS

This is a wonderful selection for a quiet family evening, with Grandma sat on her favourite armchair with her eggnog while Mum and kids dressing the tree...

The surprise of the group... Each year, unlikely singers release their own festive albums and for 2013 Mary J Blige has to be the coolest release. If you have had enough of Bing Crosby and the likes you may find something in here.

The Christmas Album

Richard and Adam Welsh singing operatic brothers, Richard and Adam Johnson, who appeared on Britain’s Got Talent, release their Christmas album. This CD will probably be this year’s UK best selling festive offering!

Christmas

from Magdalen College Oxford This beautiful album has it all. The serenity of a beautiful choir singing carols but also fabulous classical pieces, bringing peace and harmony to any household. Recommended.

A Mary Christmas

Mary J Blige This album sounds like fun. Featuring duets with Jessie J, Streisand, Marc Anthony and The Clark Sisters, it should be a great collection. Even if the songs are somewhat predictable, their treatment will be different!

Christmas Remixed 2

Various Artists This release may be from 2005 but it will be hard to beat the cool factor of all the tracks listed here. Everyone from Patti Page to Vic Damone and the inevitable Bing Crosby get different DJ’s treatment and the mixes are terrific. Like Marmite, you’ll love it or hate it!

JAZZY CHRISTMAS This selection is all about a glass of wine by the roaring fire, elegant dinner party and kids off to bed. Relaxing and oh! so smooth...

Vintage Christmas Wonderland

David Ian A very short (16 minutes) album, more like an EP but very good value at less than £3 for a download on Amazon! This is a great jazz CD even for those who don’t really like the genre. Smooth as silk!

Christmas Italiano

Jack Jezzro Prolific Jezzro has released quite a few jazz albums but this one is notably different for its Italian influence. Not shy of clichés for sure, but wonderful for an evening by candle light with accordions and mandolins. You could be in Venice on a gondola!

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:05

EASY LISTENING CHRISTMAS

NOSTALGIC CHRISTMAS

There is a fine line between easy listening and nostalgia but there are still artists today who record in the genre. These albums will undoubtedly be played for years to come!

Probably by far the most populated section of the market. We all know the Nat King Cole, Doris Day and Sinatra Christmas albums but our two suggestions are a little different.

Home for Christmas Susan Boyle

Featuring breathtaking renditions of Little Drummer Boy and The Christmas Song, Susan also joins the legendary Johnny Mathis and Elvis Presley in duets. A must have!

The Classic Christmas Album Barbra Streisand

A brand new release from the legend that is Streisand. No big surprises in the 16 song collection which ranges from Jingle Bells to White Christmas. But it is a glossy, big production album, sure to please her many fans.

UNUSUAL CHRISTMAS If you are a big fan of Christmas albums or simply wanting to hear something different this year, our next two suggestions are for you. Still festive, but unusually so.

A Very She & Him Christmas

Dreamboats and Petticoats Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Around The Christmas Tree

Various Artists This is mainly for fans of the Sixties with songs by The Shadows, Chuck Berry, Joe Brown and Connie Francis to name but a few. Dreamboats and Petticoats box sets are big hits in general and this one will be too.

I Just Love Christmas

Various Artists A fabulous 3 CD set with three very different styles of Christmas cheer on each disc. Disc one is all about carols from great choirs like St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and London

Regency Choir. Disc 2 is nostalgic with the likes of Julie London, Johnny Cash, Brenda Lee and Elvis. The third disc will transport you into classic Hollywood movieland with orchestral versions of festive favourites from Mantovani, Percy Faith and Billy Vaughn. Very low price for a terrific set. Recommended.

She & Him You may think the selection of songs on this album is pretty safe (Christmas Song, Little Saint Nick, etc) but the production and rendition are delightful. Simple and harmonious, this is an absolutely beautiful album to keep and treasure.

A Christmas Gift For You from Elefant Records

Various Artists Now then, a selection that we almost guarantee will surprise everyone. Not one mainstream song or band and yet a definitive Christmas selection that everyone can enjoy. This is one album to discover and that will appeal to most.

Christmas 2013

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05/11/2013 10:06

The Rufford Arms

Dine in

From its humble beginnings as a transport café, the Rufford Arms has become one of West Lancashire's most popular hotel and restaurants. Sue Lockwood has owned the business since 1991, hands on and front of house she makes sure it runs as it should. “Menu planning is a collaboration,” Sue explains. “The front of house get a lot of feed back from customers so we know what is a success and what isn't. “The menu is changed regularly throughout the year in line with seasonal changes. Head chef, Richard Simpson and his team present their ideas and then a meeting is held to agree on what needs to be changed.“ Sue adds, “We are quite flexible as we cook to order and use local suppliers, so if something needs to change we can act swiftly. We also have a table d’hôte menu which changes each week. This means we can make the best of local produce on offer and it also helps to test the water with new dishes.” Sue is no stranger to the catering industry having worked for several hospitality businesses beforehand and studying Hospitality Management at school. “I believe that you should treat others how you would expect to be treated yourself. We are a service industry and therefore we should be there to serve and go the extra mile to achieve great service and standards. “Listening to guests, offering a good quality of both food and service, creating a pleasant atmosphere, are all important elements to a successful hospitality business. We are not the cheapest nor the most expensive but I do feel we offer value for money.” At this time of year, why not enjoy a fabulous evening at The Rufford Arms? The hotel boasts a busy schedule of events throughout the year and many entertainment nights during the festive period. These are very popular and can get booked up fast.

Style

this Christmas! Check our website for

2 Course Evening Party Menu from £15.99 2 Course Party Lunch Menu from £14.99 www.ruffordarms.com

Why bother getting a taxi home? Stay with us on our…

Christmas Cracker Accommodation Package

Available 25/11/13 - 23/12/13 Check into one of our sumptuous king sized or twin bedded rooms… Enjoy a 3 course meal from chef ’s festive menu… and round off your stay with a Full English Breakfast cooked fresh to order!

All for only £110 per couple!

Offer only available when booking direct by calling 01704 822040 and quoting ‘Christmas Cracker Package’

Entertainment during the Festive Period: • Friday 29th November Sarah Baylis sings Soul & Motown classics

Alexander’s Brasserie

• Friday 6th December Vicky Jay a fantastic female vocalist and entertainer

@ The Rufford Arms Hotel

• Friday 13th December Max Peters, from Frank Sinatra to Robbie Williams, Max will entertain you!

380 Liverpool Road, Rufford L40 1SQ

TELEPHONE 01704 822040

• Friday 20th December Chris Stewart, the King of Swing is back…

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NEW YEAR BONUS

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Christmas Cracker Accommodation Package

Check into one of The Rufford Arms sumptuous king sized or twin bedded rooms, enjoy a 3 course meal from chef’s festive menu and round off your stay with a full English breakfast, freshly cooked to order.

All this for only £110 per couple! 1123036

When 4 or more dine anytime Monday-Friday during January (excluding New Years Day) with Gr8Life magazine. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers or discounts. Only one voucher per table. Offer only valid on production of this voucher. Expiry Date 31st January 2014. (excludes entertainment night last Friday in the month) TO RESERVE YOU TABLE CALL 01704 822040

And don't hold back thinking of driving home ... enjoy a drink or two with your meal and stay over with this fantastic value package.

Rufford Arms Hotel

Available 25/11/13–23/12/13. Offer only available when booking direct by calling 01704 822040 and quoting ‘Christmas Cracker Package’.

Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:09

Celebrate Christ mas at Thornton Hall Hotel and Spa

The Great Wirral Afternoon Tea Selection of Loose Leaf Teas, Herbal Infusions and Hot Beverages Finger Sandwiches • Cakes & Fancies • Scones

Thornton Hall’s afternoon tea is a twist on traditional afternoon teas, offering an a la carte experience. Our extensive tea selection ranges from classic English Breakfast to exotic Mandarin Rose petal. Our finger sandwiches, cakes and fancies can accommodate not only every taste bud but dietary requirements as well. We source handmade, local jams and curds, with flavours such as raspberry and vanilla to rhubarb and ginger.

Afternoon Tea • £19.95 per person

Festive Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch served between 12 Noon - 2.00pm • Monday to Saturday Our Festive Lunches are ideal for larger parties and individuals alike. Cream of Mushroom Soup, Tarragon Essence Pressed Local Ham Knuckle, Parsnip & Pickles Crisp Goats Cheese, Beetroot Jam, Celery & Walnuts Gravadlax, Pommery Mustard & Dill .................. Slow Cooked Turkey, Red Cabbage, Roast Sprouts & Chestnuts Liverpool University Pork, Cauliflower, Turnips & Cider Braised Blade of Beef, Celeriac, Cabbage & Marrow Fritters Grilled Cod, Barley Risotto & Snowdonian Shitake Cream Fine Pastry Tart, Jerusalem Artichokes, Sweet Onions .................. Handmade Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Tiramisu Cheesecake Black Forest Gateaux Lemon Meringue, Blueberries & Olive Oil Shortbread .................. Coffee & Mince Pies

2 Courses - £17.95 • 3 Courses - £21.95

Festive Breaks

Relax and unwind this Christmas and into the New Year with a gorgeous spa break. All our guests have use of our amazing spa facilities including indoor pool and outdoor Spa bath, and can dine in the Award winning Lawns Restaurant.

Gift Vouchers The perfect Christmas Gift.

You can give monetary gift vouchers to use either in the Hotel or Beauty & Hair Spa or we have more specific vouchers. The Vouchers can be purchased either online, in person (just call in to our main reception), or over the phone, by calling The Lodge on 0151 353 3737 between 9.00am to 5.00pm. After 5.00pm call The Spa on 0151 353 0116.

THORNTON HALL Visit our website on www.thorntonhallhotel.com or call 0151 336 3938 for further information 1123971 thornton.indd 1

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H O T E L & S PA

05/11/2013 10:12

Southport Golf Academy

Give them GOLF this Christmas!

See our website for details or call 01772 815842

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• Junior equipment and clothing a speciality • Memberships and playing packages • Professional coaching packages for all levels • Gift vouchers available from £5

The Gravel, Mere Brow, Tarleton 01772 815842 • www.southport-golf.co.uk

So many golfers pack their clubs away at the start of winter and then wonder why their game is not up to par in the spring! Throughout the winter they can now keep in tune and practice so they are just as good at the start of the warmer weather. The covered bays, floodlit driving range and nine hole golf course at the Leisure Lakes at Mere Brow are always open throughout the winter. Three professional teachers continue with lessons every day and on Thursday evenings users of the range get the bonus of free tips and advice while they work on their game along with a free brew too! As a specialist Wilson fitting centre there is also the chance to get fitted for clubs that suit you with no obligation to buy, or use the winter tune up and cleaning service for clubs. The staff at SGA specialise in junior and ladies equipment too and include group coaching packages for beginners – with free tasters. It’s well worth a call to ensure that next year you ready to go! Gift vouchers cover all the activities and so you can even treat your partner, children, grandchildren or even the grandparents! They can come and learn to play a sport which teaches honesty, sportsmanship and for which you don’t need to be a perfect specimen athletically.

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 14:17

Since they first hit our screens with a pilot

The Hairy Bikers may not have worked their way up through the ranks of exclusive restaurants, racking up Michelin stars along the way, but that hasn’t stopped them from cooking up a storm of success.

BBC show back in 2005, lively northern double act Dave Myers and Simon King have had their fingers in many pies, making hit series after hit series as well as top selling books and also a stint on the stage. But while many of their TV culinary counterparts were previously making an early start on carving out a career in the kitchen, the duo were worlds away, working behind the camera. “We both worked as film crew,” Dave tells Gr8Life. “I was a make-up artist and worked

Natasha Young chats to them about their past careers and their plans for the future. Christmas 2013

From films to food.indd 2

on programmes like The Forsyte Saga with Damien Lewis. Si was working on Harry Potter, and we met working on a Catherine Cookson programme.” 79

05/11/2013 10:18

The pair realised that, not only did they both have motorbikes, but they were both fanatical about food, and so they began hitting the road together. “We were lucky enough to get a programme commissioned in Portugal, and at the BBC we’ve been allowed to grow and change,” adds Dave. While sampling the tasty delights on offer around the world and whipping up their own feasts along the way, Dave and his Geordie sidekick Simon have had the chance to globe-trot to a host of destinations across Europe, Vietnam and Mexico, but among their favourite international adventures was a trip to Argentina. Dave says: “We both loved Argentina. We didn’t know what to expect but the food was great, with Spanish and German influences. “In Argentina we just had a pair of ratty old motorbikes and had the time of our lives going down to Patagonia.” Despite all the exotic locations though, there seems to be no place like home for the pair, who have won over droves of fans with their northern charm. According to Dave, it was a series which saw him and Simon head back to their hometowns which has proven most popular, and he explains: “We started off with our trips on a massive scale by riding across the Namibian desert. We did three series’ abroad then we came home to film in Barrow and Newcastle, and that got the most viewers.” Having grown up in the region Dave, who recalls visiting Southport as a child for holidays and also regarded a recent Hairy Bikers live show at Southport Theatre as a bit of a homecoming event, adds: “I get back to the North West whenever I can. It’s my home really and I love it.” 80

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Gr8Life Magazine

05/11/2013 10:19

On screen, the Hairy Bikers’ huge success could be down to serving up something that’s different to the many other cookery shows. In terms of the current trend of popular baking shows such as The Great British Bake Off, Dave likes to think they were “the first with the baking and everyone followed.” They also led a campaign in support of councils’ Meals on Wheels services, which have been under threat around the country during the current economic climate. “The BBC came to us with the Meals on Wheels campaign. I always thought that when you got old they were obliged to feed you but they’re not. It’s discretionary for councils,” says Dave. “The stars of that show were the people who took part and we went back with two programmes to see if we made any progress.” The Hairy Bikers’ forthcoming projects will bring more variety still, as he says: “There’s loads we still want to do. We’ve written a book on curry, plus I keep popping up on Countdown - I love that!” The pair have also brought out a Christmas book called ‘The Hairy Bikers’ 12 Days of Christmas’ which includes, ‘delicious cocktails to tame your in-laws, ingenious recipes for all those leftovers and fancy snacks to nibble on in front of the telly.’ Not surprisingly, the twosome have been loving every minute since their passion for all things food and motorbikes related led to their lives being transformed, as Dave goes on to add: “I did make up for 23 years and I got fed up. Now I’ve got the best job in the world and I’m doing it with my best friend. I’ve known Si for 20 years and we’ve still got a streak of madness.” Christmas 2013

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05/11/2013 10:19

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