Gr8 Life Christmas Special

CHRISTMAS IN SOUTHPORT SPECIAL EDITION

Cinderella aka

Natasha Hamilton on a childhood spent in Southport

ISSUE 20 路 WINTER 2013

A Wayfarers Shopping Experience Gr8 Food Celebrity Recipes Festive Fashion at Beales Perfect gift guide from Dobbies

Delivered FREE with your Southport Champion Gr8Life_cover.indd 1

07/11/2012 10:50

Toys to remember

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Choosing their favourite toys is made easy with our top 10 must-haves including our very own Beales bear Patch.

UP TO 30% OFF* Christmas Shop Keep warm this Christmas Don’t be left out in the cold.

Our cosy collection of scarves and hats will keep you warm.

Serve up a treat

Get set to bake with our festive range of bakeware to create your culinary Christmas masterpieces.

Christmas feast

Set the scene for a memorable meal this year with our variety of styles for your Christmas table.

SOUTHPORT 01704 535177

295-307 Lord Street, Southport, Merseyside PR8 1NY

/LoveBeales |

@LoveBeales | bealesrewards.co.uk | beales.co.uk

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

*Up to 30% off selected lines, while stocks last. Information correct at time of going to press.

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07/11/2012 09:16

Local Mag Ad-Gr8 Life-297x210.indd 1

04/10/2012 10:25

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07/11/2012 09:17

CHRISTMAS IN SOUTHPORT SPECIAL EDITION

ISSUE 20 · WINTER 2012

Cinderella aka

A Wayfarers Shopping Experience Gr8 Food Celebrity Recipes

Natasha Hamilton on a childhood spent in Southport

Festive Fashion at Beales Perfect gift guide from Dobbies

Delivered FREE with your Southport Champion

Gr8Life_cover.indd 1

31/10/2012 13:26

PUBLISHER

Betty Drummond MANAGING EDITOR

Laurent Saletto ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Louisa Austin 01704 392 332 editor@gr8lifemagazine.com EDITORIAL TEAM

David Simister Dawn Middleton PHOTOGRAPHY

Martyn Snape John Swift ADVERTISING SALES

01704 392 392 sales@gr8lifemagazine.com PRODUCTION TEAM

01704 392 320 production@champnews.com

Amy Houghton Emma Lyon Mike Rose David Atherton Ian McCabe DISTRIBUTION TEAM

01704 392 345 distribution@champnews.com PUBLISHED BY

The clocks have gone back, the nights are drawing in and that icy, bitter wind has made an appearance on more than one occasion.

With the cold mornings and dark nights comes the anticipation of the one event I always look forward to every year – Christmas!

For months we plan every little detail meticulously, from the food to the gifts to the outfits and then it’s gone, in 24 precious hours. Here at Gr8life we decided that there was no better way to highlight the occasion than by producing a one off Gr8life Christmas special.

Packed with recipes from your favourite TV chefs, to festive fashion and quirky gift ideas, this is the only guide you will need to help plan your Christmas this year.

And as always we keep it deliberately local so that YOU can find everything you need close by!

Our fashion feature focuses on Beales, formally Broadbents and Boothroyds and highlights the fabulous choice available at the famous department store. You also get the chance to browse over some of the beautiful gifts Dobbies have in store this year. Yes everything you need is right here on your doorstep.

Don’t miss our feature on the Wayfarers Arcade which is packed full of events in the run up to Christmas Day and is decked out beautifully, yet again, with the resident tree and a fantastic Santa’s Grotto.

If that wasn‘t enough, you can read all about ex Atomic Kitten Natasha Hamilton’s impending appearance as Cinderella at the Southport Theatre and about her memories of a childhood spent in Southport with picnics on the grass!

As always, please get in touch if you have any questions or feedback, I love to hear from you and finally, I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas!

Champion Media Group Clare House 166 Lord Street Southport PR9 0QA T: 01704 392 392 F: 0871 900 5678 © 2012 Champion Media Group. All rights

Louisa Austin Associate Editor editor@gr8lifemagazine.com

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.

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Gr8 Life magazine

07/11/2012 09:19

Open Day Every Day At Merchant Taylors’ Schools we recognise that academic achievement is only one part of an all-round education. As well as gaining the top exam results on Merseyside we pride ourselves in offering the best extra-curricular provision.

To find out more please make an appointment to visit the schools during a normal working day.

@MerchantsCrosby Merchant Taylors Schools, Crosby

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9 13 19 28 31 37 41 45 50 53 57 61 65 70 73

Inside 6

Contents.indd 1

78 80

Living the dream

A look inside boutique Covet and Crave

Festive Fashion

The latest trends available at Beales

Christmas in style

Recipes from all your favourite chefs

A bite sized menu

The perfect nibbles and canapés for your Christmas party

Dear Father Christmas

All the gifts ideas you could need, all under one roof

13 things you must do 2013

An alternative New Year’s resolution list

Christmas at Wayfarers

What’s happening at Southport’s historic shopping arcade this Christmas

Rufford Arms

Gr8life visits the restaurant and samples a five star menu

Festive cocktails

A range of festive non-alcoholic and alcoholic cocktails

All I want for Christmas….

Resident motor expert David Simister tells us what is top of his list

Southport does it best

The perfect place to do your Christmas shopping

Look fabulous for Christmas

Tasty pre-Christmas diet tips and recipes

Gifts with a difference

We look at unique gifts for your loved ones

A Heaven for Homes

Checkers in Churchtown have everything you could want to give your home a New Year makeover

An Atomic Kitten in Southport

Natasha Hamilton talks to Gr8life about her Christmas pantomime and memories of Southport

Just a bit of fun

A selection of quizzes and brainteasers, perfect for a family Christmas afternoon

What’s on?

A roundup of the entertainment near you this festive season www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 09:24

A whole new world Shopping Experience

at Websters

One of the North West’s premier retail names has entered an exciting new era Websters, the family-owned store in Tarleton, near Southport, has now evolved into an even better shopping experience. And over the next few months more prestigious retailers will be added to the list of quality retailers already happily established there.

leather bags and jackets from Woodland and a large selection of silk flowers and gift-ware from Vanilla and Wood’s.

Yankee Candles also have an outlet at Websters selling a big collection of Home-scents and Websters has a long established history of selling top scented candles. range goods and unrivalled service and its already enviable reputation is being enhanced still further by Websters is a great shopping destination for all the new development. There is now a whole range the family as there is an imaginative Kiddiroo toy of well known retailers throughout the store featuring department filled with quirky, fun and unusual gifts occasional furniture from Ancient Mariner, rugs, beds for all ages. And not forgetting Whittles Farm

by Health Beds and Sherborne recliners.

Restaurant and Coffee Shop for lunch, a drink or snack. Whittles Farm Restaurant specialises in Ladies fashions from Klass, Anna Rose, Roman, fresh local produce, home-cooked cuisine, hearty Just Elegance, CMD and Tigi all sit comfortably next soups, sandwiches and light-bites. It also caters for to handbags, luggage and jewellery by Buckingham, parties and groups and special menus for events Purdie Oak, Antler and Kipling. There’s beautiful soft can be arranged.

NEW RANGES from Bassini Ladieswear and Tigi-Wear plus a LARGE GIFTWARE DEPARTMENT from Woods

www.webstersoftarleton.co.uk

Restaurant & Coffee Shop

Whittle’s Farm Restaurant and Coffee Shop 01772 817435 www.whittlesfarm.com

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES During December the store and restaurant/coffee shop will be OPEN on Mondays CHRISTMAS CLOSING Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Thursday 27th December, New Years Eve & New Years Day

Websters of Tarleton, 94 Church Road, Tarleton PR4 6UP

Opening times: Closed Mondays • NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 11am - 4pm • Tuesday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

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tel: 01772 812249

07/11/2012 09:26

FUN-FILLED CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

Visit www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk or call 01704 875 699 Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa, Southport Old Road, Formby, Merseyside L37 0AB

Christmas 2 for 1 Lunches

Packages from

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From only

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We have the venue, we have the superb food, we have the entertainment and we have the atmosphere. So book now for our fun-filled Christmas party nights and post Christmas party nights for friends, family and colleagues.

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OPEN TO TRADE AND PUBLIC • Antique and older style furniture bought and sold • We also sell on a commission • Full stripping & polishing service • Buy from us and we can restore • Door stripping service

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE MARKET AND BUY ANTIQUES AT KNOCK-DOWN PRICES

THE ASSOCIATION OF ART & ANTIQUES DEALERS

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WEST LANCS ANTIQUES Victoria Mill, Victoria Street, Burscough, Lancashire, L40 0SN Tel: 01704 894634 Fax: 01704 894486 Email: westlancsantique@btconnect.com OPEN: Mon-Fri, 9.00-5.30 • Sat, 11.00-4.30

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07/11/2012 09:28

Gifts

with a difference

This story begins not beneath the Christmas tree but in a queue, this time last year.

I’ve never been especially good at the festive shopping trip but a supersized branch of HMV in the Arndale Centre in Manchester is hardly the place to start. Especially if it’s a bitterly cold Saturday afternoon outside and a squelchingly hot, crowded, noisy affair inside.

The queue to buy Adele albums and Ricky Gervais DVDs stretches far from the counters themselves, straight to the back of the store, and then on for what seems like an eternity. Yet this is the basic formula for my festive shopping trip, year in, year out, and it’s not what I’d call fun.

David Simister is no fan of Christmas shopping, yet this year he thinks he may actually be doing it right for once. Here he explains his formula for successful present buying.

If only it could be different.

If only I could do my Christmas shopping differently, giving the big brands a miss, going off the beaten track and celebrating the weird ‘n’ wonderful gifts offered up by the independent traders, without venturing too far. If only I could go back to the beginning and start all over again...

Now, this story begins aboard a charming little narrowboat, moored up on a canal in the West Lancashire countryside. That’s what you’ll get if you pay a visit to the Wool Boat, run by Burscough couple Colin and Carole Wareing, who offer up the first of my festive gift suggestions with a slightly quirky twist.

They travel the waterways of Britain with Emma Maye - which is literally a floating home and shop all rolled into one - and sell all manner of knitted jumpers, cardigans, hats and other woolly wonders sure to help keep the chilly winter weather at bay.

The very nature of how the business works means that it’s always best to check where the boat is before getting in touch, but it’s well worth taking a look at their website - www.thewoolboat.co.uk - to find out what Colin and Carole have got in stock.

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Having picked up a woolly jumper or two, my next

If you’re feeling even craftier than that and

stop would be a bookshop, to satisfy the inquisitive

fancy putting a bit of Blue Peter into your Christmas

friends and relatives who love burying their head in a

presents then a trip to Churchtown, to pay ceramic

novel or two on Boxing Day.

creatives Browns of Churchtown a visit.

There are plenty of shops to choose from, even if

Regular GR8Life readers might remember that

you don’t stray from Southport, but my pick would

I paid proprietor Michelle Courtney a visit for an

be Parkinson’s, nestled away at the end of a narrow

earlier edition of this magazine, where I used my

alleyway just off Lord Street.

limited artistic repertoire to make a hand-decorated

If the brightly coloured sea shells, old coins and unusual rocks and stones the shop sells don’t

plate, which I actually gave to my long-suffering other half as a festive gift.

whet your appetite then the books will; there must

Browns is a handy Christmas tip because it

be thousands of them, stacked wall to wall across

works on two levels - not only can you either create

several floors and going back decades.

or buy your own pottery-based creations to give as

My favourite of a string of purchases so far has to

gifts, but if you’ve got a frustrated painter in your

be The Kemsley Manual of Journalism, which gives a

family you can actually take them along, buy them a

fascinating insight into how local newspapers were

cuppa, and set them to work.

put together long before fax machines, computers

They’ll love it. I should know, because I’ve done it!

and iPads were invented.

My other half, meanwhile, loved the decadesold atlas I got her, lovingly illustrated with longgone countries like Rhodesia and Ceylon.

Forget big brands flogging you copies of Fifty Shades of Grey, because this is a literature lover’s treasure trove.

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07/11/2012 09:33

But I’d leave my favourite festive tip as the final stop on my Christmas shopping trip, because it’s perfect for the blokey, closet CAMRA member in your family - people like me, basically - who demand a gift with a difference they’ll actually enjoy.

The Inn Beer Shop, at the northern end of Lord Street, is one of my favourite shops in the entire town because it offers something real ale enthusiasts like me love - an array of beers and ciders which simply boggles the mind, and if you genuinely can’t choose which ones your family’s resident Oz Clarke would enjoy then either get them one of the themed-gift boxes from various breweries dotted around the shop, or get them a gift voucher and allow them to wander around, picking out bottles of beers you simply can’t get anywhere else for miles around.

The best bit, however, is that you don’t have to make your choice, pay up and walk out like you would any other shop - for a small extra charge they’ll crack open a bottle, pour you a glass and let you savour the flavours there and then, allowing you to toast the success of a Christmas shopping trip with a bit of a difference.

So much better than joining a mile-long queue in a big-name department store of your choice.

Cheers!

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07/11/2012 09:34

V I V I E N N E W E S T W O O D AT

Reputation

menswear

Ladies Designer Clothing

Handbags · Scarves · Gloves · Statement Jewellery

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

R.L Blundell Designer Craftsmen of Fine Jewellery

Stockists of the Exquisite Rebecca Jewellery

PAGE 12.indd 1

Christmas Orders now being taken for hand made jewellery For all your repair needs visit us at 2a Eastbank Street Southport Lancashire PR8 1DW

Telephone (01704) 547 216

1113704

1105479

ALSO STOCKISTS OF CANALI, ROBERT GRAHAM, PAUL & SHARK, TED BAKER, LYLE & SCOTT, WITHOUR PREDJUDICE, JOHN SMEDLEY & MANY MORE FOLLOW US ON 92-96 LORD STREET • SOUTHPORT, PR8 1JR. 01704 536959 (NEXT DOOR TO THE VINCENT HOTEL)

Earrings and Bracelets in gold-coated bronze with white glam film, captures the radiance of jewellery seen at lavish parties in regal ballrooms and decorative friezes of royal residences

07/11/2012 09:35

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat and the high street is preparing for a winter collection perfect for keeping you warm and stylish.

Although we haven’t had much of a summer to speak of, there is even more of an excuse now to go shopping for our winter warmers and party dresses in anticipation of a frosty but fabulous festive season.

Beales department store – previously Broadbents and Boothroyds – on Lord Street in Southport has a huge range of quality winter wear in stock.

Perfect if you want to add some key, high quality winter pieces to your wardrobe. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

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07/11/2012 09:37

Materials this winter will be luxurious, rich and heavy without being too restrictive or claustrophobic and simple designs and clean lines will take stance above all other trends.

Coats, although an obvious wardrobe staple in the winter months are at the forefront of fashion this season and will be the main part of an outfit rather than complimentary or worn through necessity. Belts are huge this season with many fashion houses including them in their designs so you don’t need to buy one separately, perfect if you take too long to decide on accessories before you leave the house!

Single breasted is the tailoring of choice and can offer an extremely flattering slimline look to longer coats.

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07/11/2012 09:37

Bright but warm colours are big this winter including purple and red hues with neutrals still as popular as ever when it comes to outerwear. Beales have a large range of designers from Bawdy, Jasper Conran, Minute, Dents, Coast, Ann Harvey, Kaliko to Esprit, among others which all offer their own take on this seasons fashions.

When it comes to evening and party wear, black and white are big colour contenders and the simple and sleek trends for outerwear follow through with lace and pearls being incorporated into many pieces. Evening wear fashion is much more formal than it has been in recent years which will be music to your ears if you like to get glammed up!

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07/11/2012 09:38

Trouser suits are also big but they again are very simple with straight lines and a less is more approach.

Silk is the material of choice for the evening with many of the fashion houses designing their pieces around this material. Layering is not as big as it was last year with the focus on simple, one dimensional designs with expert tailoring and fitting. Beales have a whole floor dedicated to evening wear with every style you could imagine available.

There are also petit and plus ranges to suit your body shape and assistants waiting to help you choose an outfit to impress.

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07/11/2012 09:38

All clothing and accessories featured are available at Beales department store in Southport.

For information on sizing and pricing

Accessories are often an afterthought, not just when we are planning an outfit but also on the catwalks.

However Winter 2012/13 is different with winter accessories at the forefront of many of the collections.

Gloves, scarves and earmuffs take centre stage, many intricate and beautifully designed.

If you don’t want to splash out on a new wardrobe this winter, which

please enquire in

let’s face it, can be pretty costly, you can easily update it by investing in

store.

some key winter accessories and transform your look instantly.

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07/11/2012 09:38

Mealtimes made easy For those who’ve worked hard all their lives, maintaining

With the freezer stocked up, you know that a hot meal

independence is particularly important - especially when it

is only ever a few minutes away. Most dishes take 8-12

comes to mealtimes.

minutes in the microwave or 35 minutes in the oven. As they

Wiltshire Farm Foods is one company that’s keen to help

are cooked in their trays, there is no preparation, no pots

those who can’t get out and about as much, so they can eat

and pans, just delicious meals that you can enjoy in your

well and look after themselves.

own time. Maintaining independence has never been easier.

Established for more than 20 years, Wiltshire Farm Foods creates and delivers a delicious range of frozen meals that

Special diets catered for eg.Diabetic, Gluten Free, Low Fat, Low Salt & (Soft & Pureed).

can be cooked in minutes. From the field, to the freezer,

To start you off, you might like to order our Christmas

every detail is considered in order to offer nutrition, value,

Selection Pack, with 6 main meals and 4 desserts, + Free 12

flavour and award-winning personal service.

Days of Christmas Tea Towel all for just £29.95! It’s a great

Convenience is a key part of the Wiltshire Farm Foods

way to try a variety of our favorite meals.

offering. All meals can be ordered over the phone or online.

For more information call 01704 232486 or visit us at

They’re then delivered by a friendly, local delivery driver,

18-19 AK Business Park, Russell Rd Southport PR9 7SA.

who is always happy to put meals away in the freezer.

Open Monday – Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm

A full festive dinner and not a saucepan in sight.

What more could you want for Christmas?

Christmas is a time time for for putting putting your feet up, up, so so Christmas leave mealtimes to Wiltshire Farm Foods.

They offer leave mealtimes to Wiltshire Farm Foods. They offer around 250 delicious, individually individually portioned around 250 delicious, portioneddishes. dishes, including irresistible Christmas options. including irresistible Christmas options.

Come shine theirselection local drivers will deliver Orderrain ouror Christmas pack: direct your freezer. when you’re ready, just 6 Mainto Courses and 4Then, Desserts ALL for just £29.95 pop in the or oven and enjoy. plus your FREEmeal 12 Days ofmicrowave Christmas tea towel -worth £2.95

Tasty meals from £2.95

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FREE DELIVERY

For a FREE brochure call

Honey Roast Turkey Breast with vegetables £3.95

PAGE 18.indd 1

01704 773 232486 0800 773 wiltshirefarmfoods.com

07/11/2012 09:43

Christmas lunch does not have to be just a bit of smoked salmon with a wedge of lemon and dry, overcooked turkey followed by heavy pud‌ These celebrity chefs recipes are fun to do, a little bit different, affordable and yet traditional enough to please everyone. Our criteria of selection was simple. They had to taste good, look fantastic and be easy enough for any cook to tackle!

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www.gr8lifemagazine.com 19

07/11/2012 09:49

The Starter

Smoked Salmon Gateau Recipe by Gary Rhodes A sensational centrepiece of layered fish with lemon cream cheese and a gravadlax dressing of brandy, dill and mustard.

Can be made in advance.

INGREDIENTS 700g pre-sliced smoked salmon 350g full-fat soft cream cheese 1 heaped tsp of mignonette pepper (coarsely ground black peppercorns) 284ml carton whipping cream Juice of half a lemon

FOR THE GRAVADLAX DRESSING 1 heaped tbsp very finely chopped shallot ½ tsp demerara sugar 50ml brandy 100ml crème fraîche 1 heaped tsp Dijon mustard Squeeze of lime juice 50ml olive oil Leaves from a few sprigs of fresh dill

TO SERVE 8 watercress sprigs Extra virgin olive oil Lime wedges www.bbcgoodfood.com

www.gr8lifemagazine.com 20

Christmas Celebrity Style.indd 2

RECIPE Wrap the base of a loose-bottomed, 20cm non-stick cake tin with cling film, twizzling it into a knot on the underside, then slot base back in the tin.

Cut the salmon into pieces about 15cm long and make a neat layer of slices, presentation side down, on the base of the tin. Start at the outside and push the slices right to the edge; after going all round the edge, fill in the centre with straight pieces of salmon.

Mash the cream cheese until smooth (a rubber spatula is good for this), working in the mignonette pepper and a pinch of salt at the same time. Pour in two-thirds of the cream, a little at a time, and keep stirring and beating until a smooth, lightly whipped cream consistency is achieved. Now work in the lemon juice. If slightly too firm (it should be spreadable), work in the remaining cream and then recheck for seasoning.

Dollop about a quarter of the cream cheese in the centre of the salmon and spread to the edge with the spatula or a palette knife; slowly turn the tin to get an even thickness of about 3mm. Top this with a salmon layer, continuing until both salmon and cheese have been used, finishing with a salmon layer.

Press the top down with your hands. Stretch cling film over and refrigerate for at least four hours - or preferably overnight.

Make the dressing. Simmer the shallots, sugar and brandy in a small pan until almost dry and a deep brown colour - about 5 minutes. Tip into a bowl and leave to cool. Whisk the crème fraîche in a bowl with the mustard and lime juice, and whisk in the cold shallots. Whisk in the olive oil, trickling it slowly as if making mayonnaise. Season, cover the bowl with cling film and chill in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight.

To turn the salmon gateau out, dip a knife into a jug of warm water and run it carefully around the inside of the tin, between the gateau and the sides, to release the salmon from the tin. Invert a flat serving plate or board on top, then turn the gateau out upside down and lift off the tin and the cling-filmed base.

You will now be left with a perfectly flat top to the salmon-layered gateau.

The gateau is best cut into wedges while set firm, then left to reach room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving - it will soften slightly and have more flavour being less cold. Just before serving, chop the dill and whisk it into the dressing, which is best served straight from the fridge. Serve the gateau with watercress sprigs drizzled with olive oil and lime wedges for squeezing.

Serve the dressing in a jug.

21 www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 09:49

Main Meat Spiced & Super Juicy

Roast Turkey Recipe Recipeby byNigella Nigella Lawson Lawson This Thisisisaarecipe recipethat thatonce oncetried triedwill willbecome becomeyour yourfavourite favouriteofofcooking cookingturkey. turkey.You You cannot cannotreally reallyovercook overcookthis thisnor normake makeititdry dryand andits itsmarinade marinade(curing (curingreally) really)isis simple simpleenough enoughfor foranyone anyonetotohave haveaago gowhile whileensuring ensuringthat thateven eventhe thehumblest humblestofof birds birdstastes tastesperfect, perfect,with withallallthe thescents scentsofofChristmas Christmasthrown thrownininfor forgood goodmeasure! measure!

RECIPE: RECIPE: Forthe theturkey: turkey:place placethe thewater waterinto intoyour yourlargest largestcooking cookingpot potororbucket/ bucket/ 1.1.For 66litres litreswater, water,approx. approx. plasticbin binand andadd addall allthe theturkey turkeyingredients, ingredients,stirring stirringtotodissolve dissolvethe thesalt, salt,sugar, sugar, plastic 11x x250g 250gpacket packetMaldon Maldonsalt/125g salt/125gtable tablesalt salt syrupand andhoney. honey.(Squeeze (Squeezethe thejuice juiceofofthe theorange orangequarters quartersinto intothe thebrine brine syrup 33tablespoons tablespoonsblack blackpeppercorns peppercorns beforeyou youchuck chuckthe thepieces piecesin.) in.) before Untieand andremove removeany anystring stringorortrussing trussingattached attachedtotothe theturkey, turkey,shake shakeitit 2.2.Untie 11bouquet bouquetgarni garni freeand andadd additittotothe theliquid. liquid.Add Addmore morewater waterififthe theturkey turkeyisisnot notcompletely completely free 22tablespoons tablespoonswhite whitemustard mustardseeds seeds submerged.Keep Keepthe themixture mixtureininaacold coldplace, place,even evenoutside outsideovernight overnightororfor forup up submerged.

200g 200gcaster castersugar sugar dayorortwo twobefore beforeyou youcook cookit,it,remembering rememberingtototake takeititout outofofits itsliquid liquid(and (and totoaaday hastotogo go wipingititdry drywith withkitchen-towel) kitchen-towel)aagood good40 40oror50 50minutes minutesbefore beforeitithas wiping 22onions, onions,peeled peeledand andquartered quartered intothe theoven. oven.Turkeys Turkeys- -indeed indeedthis thisisisthe thecase casefor forall allmeat meat- -should shouldbe beatatroom room into 11x x6cm 6cmpiece pieceofofginger, ginger,cut cutinto into66slices slices temperaturebefore beforebeing beingput putininthe thepreheated preheatedoven. oven.IfIfyou’re you’reatatall allconcerned concerned temperature 11cinammon cinammonstick stick thecold coldwater waterininthe thebrine brinewill willreally reallychill chillthis thisbird bird- -then thenjust justcook cookthe theturkey turkey - -the forlonger longerthan thanits itsactual actualweight weightrequires. requires. for 11tablespoon tablespooncaraway carawayseeds seeds Forthe thebasting bastingglaze: glaze:place placethe thebutter butterand andsyrup syrupinto intoaasaucepan saucepanand and 3.3.For 44cloves cloves cookover overaalow lowheat, heat,while whilestirring, stirring,until untilthe theingredients ingredientshave havemelted meltedand and cook 22tablespoons tablespoonsallspice allspiceberries berries combined. combined.

Brushthe theturkey turkeywith withthe theglaze glazebefore beforeroasting, roasting,and andbaste basteperiodically periodically 4.4.Brush 44star staranise anise through out the turkey roasting time. through out the turkey roasting time.

11orange, orange,quartered quartered Preheatthe theoven oventoto220C/gas 220C/gas7.7.Cook Cookthe theturkey turkeyfor forhalf halfan anhour houratat 5.5.Preheat 44tablespoons tablespoonsmaple maplesyrup syrup thisrelatively relativelyhigh hightemperature, temperature,then thenturn turnthe theoven ovendown downtoto180C/gas 180C/gas44and and this 44tablespoons tablespoonsrunny runnyhoney honey continue continuecooking, cooking,turning turningthe theoven ovenback backup uptoto220C/gas 220C/gas77for forthe thelast lastquarter quarter ofofan anhour hourororsosoififyou youwant wanttotogive giveaafifinal, nal,browning browningboost boosttotothe theskin. skin.For Foraa Stalks Stalksfrom fromaamedium mediumbunch bunchofofparsley, parsley,optional optional 4-5kg 4-5kgturkey, turkey,allow allowtwo-and-a-half two-and-a-halftotothree threehours hoursinintotal. total.But Butremember rememberthat that FOR FORTHE THEBASTING BASTING ovens ovensvary varyenormously, enormously,sosojust justcheck checkby bypiercing piercingthe theflflesh eshbetween betweenleg legand and 75g 75gbutter butterororgoose goosefat fat body bodywith withaasmall smallsharp sharpknife: knife:when whenthe thejuices juicesrun runclear, clear,the theturkey’s turkey’scooked. cooked.

6.6.Just Justasasit’s it’scrucial crucialtotolet letthe theturkey turkeycome cometotoroom roomtemperature temperaturebefore beforeitit 33tablespoons tablespoonsmaple maplesyrup syrup goes goesinintotothe theoven, oven,sosoit’s it’simportant importanttotolet letititstand standout outofofthe theoven ovenfor foraagood good 20minutes minutesbefore beforeyou youactually actuallycarve carveit.it. http://uktv.co.uk/food http://uktv.co.uk/food 20 INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS

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21 www.gr8lifemagazine.com www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 09:50

Main Fish

Roasted White Fish

wrapped in Smoked Bacon with Lemon Mayonnaise & Asparagus Recipe Recipeby byJamie JamieOliver Oliver Haddock Haddockorormonkfi monkfishshall allwork workwith withthis thissimple simpleand andeffective effectiverecipe. recipe.Jamie Jamie Oliver Oliversays: says:“I“Ilove lovethis thisrecipe recipebecause becauseitittreats treatsthe thefifishshalmost almostlike likeaapiece pieceofof meat, meat,with withcrispy crispyand andsoft, soft,flflaky akytextures texturestogether.” together.”

INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS

RECIPE RECIPE Preheat Preheatyour youroven oventoto200ºC/400ºF/gas 200ºC/400ºF/gas6.6.Season Seasonyour yourbeautiful beautifulfifishshfifillets llets 44x x200g 200gwhite whitefifishshfifillets, llets,cut cut2.5cm 2.5cmthick, thick,skinned skinned with withthe therosemary, rosemary,fifinely nelygrated gratedlemon lemonzest zest(no (nobitter bitterwhite whitepith, pith,please) please)and and and andboneless boneless pepper. pepper.You Youdon’t don’tneed needtotouse usesalt saltbecause becausewe’re we’regoing goingtotowrap wrapthe thefifishshininthe the 22sprigs sprigsofoffresh freshrosemary, rosemary,leaves leavespicked pickedand andvery very lovely lovelysalty saltysmoked smokedbacon. bacon.Lay Layyour yourrashers rashersofofbacon baconororpancetta pancettaon onaaboard board and andone oneby byone onerun runthe theflflatatofofaaknife knifealong alongthem themtotothin thinthem themand andwiden widenthem them fifinely nelychopped chopped out. out.Lay Lay44rashers rasherstogether, together,slightly slightlyoverlapping, overlapping,put putaafifishshfifillet lleton ontop topand and Zest Zestand andjuice juiceofof22lemons lemons wrap wrapthe therashers rashersaround aroundit.it.

Freshly Freshlyground groundblack blackpepper pepper Lightly Lightlyheat heataalarge largeovenproof ovenprooffrying fryingpan, pan,add addaasplash splashofofolive oliveoil oiland andlay lay your your fi fi sh, sh, prettiest prettiest side side facing facing up, up, in in the the pan. pan.

Fry Fry for for a a minute, minute, then then place place the the 16 16rashers rashersofofthinly thinlysliced, sliced,smoked smokedstreaky streakybacon bacon pan panininyour yourpreheated preheatedoven ovenfor for10 10toto12 12minutes, minutes,depending dependingon onthe thethickness thickness ororpancetta pancetta ofofthe thefifish, sh,until untilthe thebacon baconisiscrisp crispand andgolden. golden.

Olive Oliveoil oil While Whilethe thefifishshisiscooking, cooking,you youcan canmake makeyour yoursimple simplelemon lemonmayonnaise. mayonnaise.I I do dothis thisby bymixing mixinghomemade homemademayonnaise mayonnaisewith withaanice niceamount amountofoflemon lemonjuice juice 44tablespoons tablespoonsmayonnaise mayonnaise and andpepper. pepper.Or, Or,ififyou’d you’drather rathersit sitdown downfor forfifiveveminutes minuteswith withaaglass glassofofwine, wine, 22large largebunches bunchesofofasparagus, asparagus,trimmed trimmed use usesome someready-made ready-mademayo mayoinstead! instead!You Youwant wanttotoadd addenough enoughlemon lemonjuice juicetoto makethe theflflavour avourslightly slightlytoo toozingy. zingy.This Thisisisbecause, because,when whenyou youeat eatititwith withthe the www.jamieoliver.com www.jamieoliver.com make asparagus asparagusand andthe thefifish, sh,ititwill willlessen lessenslightly slightlyininintensity. intensity.And Anddon’t don’tworry worryififthe the mayo mayolooks looksaalittle littlethinner thinnerthan thanusual usualwhen whenyou’ve you’veadded addedthe thelemon lemonjuice juice–– think thinkofofititasasmore moredelicate. delicate.

The Theasparagus asparagusisisaagreat greataccompaniment accompanimentbecause, because,like likethe thefifish, sh,ititalso alsoloves loves bacon. bacon.You Youcan caneither eitherboil boilororsteam steamit;it;either eitherway wayit’s it’slight lightand andaanice nicecontrast contrast totothe themeatiness meatinessofofthe thefifish. sh.When Whencooked, cooked,toss tossititininthe thejuices juicesthat thatcome comeout outofof the thefifish. sh.Simply Simplyserve servethe thefifishshnext nexttotoaanice nicepile pileofofasparagus, asparagus,drizzled drizzledwith withthe the lemon-spiked lemon-spikedmayonnaise. mayonnaise.And Andififyou’re you’refeeling feelingvery veryhungry, hungry,serve servewith withsome some steaming-hot steaming-hotnew newpotatoes. potatoes.

22 Gr8 Gr8Life Lifemagazine magazine

Christmas Celebrity Style.indd 4

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07/11/2012 09:50

Vegetable Option

Christmas Veggie Wellington Recipe by Simon Rimmer This sumptuous dish will turn heads and vegetarians will just love it. A tasty blend of spices, herbs, mushrooms and rice wrapped in golden pastry is a real winner, whatever your preferred diet.

INGREDIENTS For the filling 60g Basmati rice, cooked according to the packet instructions Pinch turmeric 1 lemon, zest only 1 onion, finely chopped 600g brown cap mushrooms, sliced 50g butter, melted 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon 1tbsp dried cranberries 2 free-range eggs, hard-boiled, chopped

RECIPE: Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.

Combine the cooked rice, turmeric and lemon zest and set aside, covered, in the refrigerator.

Heat the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat, add the onion and mushroom and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Set aside to cool.

Stir in the cooked rice, herbs, cranberries and hard-boiled eggs until well combined. Season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

For the pastry, cut a 20cm x 30cm/8in x 12in rectangle from the puff pastry.

Spoon the rice mixture down the centre of the pastry. Bring the sides of the pastry together and seal. Brush all over with beaten egg and chill for 30 minutes.

Sprinkle the pastry parcel with sesame seeds and bake in the oven for 30 minutes, or until crisp and golden-brown.

To serve, place one slice of the Wellington onto each of six serving plates.

Pour over vegetarian gravy.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the pastry 250g ready-rolled puff pastry 1 free-range egg, beaten 1 tsp sesame seeds Vegetarian gravy, to serve

www.bbc.co.uk/food

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Christmas Celebrity Style.indd 5

23 www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 09:50

The Dessert

Layered Panettone & Ricotta Pudding

Recipe by Antonio Carluccio This is also known as Zuccotto, a traditional northern Italian dessert and usually made with plain sponge. This is a fantastic alternative to the heavier Christmas pudding and, as it is a no-cook pudding, it is easy and must be prepared in advance.

Ingredients 1kg ricotta 140g caster sugar 70g candied fruit, finely chopped 40g flaked almonds 50g plain chocolate shavings/chips 1 tbsp cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting 600g panettone 175ml/6fl oz Vin Santo or other sweet dessert wine (Sauternes, Beaume de Venise)

www.bbc.co.uk/food

24 Gr8 Life magazine

Christmas Celebrity Style.indd 6

RECIPE: Mix together half of the ricotta and half of the sugar in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the candied fruit, half of the almonds and half of the chocolate chips until well combined.

Mix the remaining ricotta, sugar and the cocoa powder in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. Stir in the remaining candied fruit, flaked almonds and chocolate chips and set aside.

Line a 15cm/6in diameter pudding basin or a deep bowl with cling film, leaving a lot of excess around the edge.

Slice two round discs from the panettone and slice the remaining panettone lengthways into 2.5cm/1in slices.

Line the bowl with the slices of panettone, and, using a pastry brush, brush three-quarters of the Vin Santo onto the bread. Spoon in the chocolate and ricotta mixture, then press one of the panettone discs on top. Drizzle over a little Vin Santo.

Spoon in the remaining ricotta mixture, press the remaining panettone disc on top, then drizzle with the remaining Vin Santo.

Cover the top with the remaining cling film, place a weight on top (a plate with a bag of sugar on it, for example), and chill in the fridge for at least six hours.

To serve, remove the pudding from the fridge, remove the weight and unpeel the clingfilm from the top of the pudding. Invert the pudding onto a plate, carefully remove the bowl and peel off the cling film.

Dust with cocoa powder.

www.gr8lifemagazine.com 25

07/11/2012 09:50

98 Botanic Road Churchtown, Southport We are easy to find in the centre of Churchtown opposite St. Cuthberts Church www.claudesofchurchtown.co.uk

Telephone: 01704 228334

December Menu Soup of the day served with fresh bread Chicken liver pate accompanied by redcurrant jelly and warm toast Feta cheese pastry with honeyed walnuts and port wine glaze Twice cooked savoury leek pudding with sun dried tomato dressing Quenelle of bacon mash served on a ring of black pudding with red wine dressing Creamy seafood encased in an herb pancake glazed with Parmesan Salad of mixed leaves topped with hoi sin duck, flavoured with orange and toasted sesame seeds

***** Traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings Braised steak Bourguignonne – rich red wine, mushroom, bacon and shallot sauce Supreme of chicken with a creamy Stilton sauce and apricot compote Wild mushroom risotto finished with Pernod and cream served with or without a sautéed chicken breast Salmon wrapped in pastry with a velvet lobster sauce Slow roasted pork belly with our own sticky sauce… our best seller!

Fillet of sea bass served atop a smoked haddock and spring onion fishcake served with a lemon and parsley sauce All main courses served with fresh vegetables and potatoes

***** Choose from the dessert selection from £4.25 Two courses Monday to Saturday lunchtime and Tuesday to Thursday evening £13.50 Add coffee and mince pie £15.50 Two courses Friday and Saturday evening £15.50

Homemade Christmas Cake and Puddings now available

1113730 claudes.indd 1

1113730

Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 3.30pm Dinner Served Tuesday - Saturday 6.30pm - 9pm

07/11/2012 10:17

The plaice to buy your fish A Southport fisherman who supplies his prized locally caught shrimps to top hotel Ramada Plaza has set up shop in Southport Market to meet a surge in demand for his shellfish.

Kevin Peet, one of Southport’s few remaining shrimp fisherman who has been working local waters for more than 30 years, has opened a fish stall in the town’s new market following an increase in appetite for potted and peeled shrimps.

His catches are highly prized across the UK with clients including the Devere Hotels and it a true family business with Kevin helping his father with the daily catch when he was just nine years old.

Kevin braves the chilly Southport waters every day, continuing the tradition, using hand nets, tractors and shrimping rigs and then comes back to the market to sell his catch. Despite the fact that Southport was once synonymous with shrimping with dozens of fishermen

working the waters, Kevin is now one of just a handful of fishermen making a living from it. Kevin also catches a wide range of fish which are sold the same day, as fresh as they possibly can be.

“I remember when you could buy the product from most fish shops or even from people selling in pubs and social clubs and I hope to play a part in reviving this. “I’d also love to speak to hoteliers and people running B&B’s in Southport who are interested in serving up locally caught seafood to their guests, it would be a terrific selling point for them.”

Kevin is also offering oven ready bags that give the customers the catch of the day carefully prepared and sealed in containers ready to be heated. Kevin adds, “These are great because they mean there are no smells in the house and produce a tasty and impressive meal quickly and easily. Perfect for Christmas!”

Free delivery is also offered on all ordered over £20.

TRADERS OF QUALITY FRESH FISH AND SEAFOOD FOR ALL YOUR FRESH FISH NEEDS Try our ready prepared ‘COOK-IN-THE-BAG’ FISH DISHES … NO MESS, NO SMELLS! Suppliers to Restaurants, Nursing and Care Homes, Pubs, etc.

CHRISTMAS SPECIALS FREE DELIVERY on all orders over £20 within 10 mile radius

WE CAN ALSO CATER FOR ANY SIZE PACKAGES

2 Salmon Fillets 100g Scottish Smoked Salmon 150g Royal Greenland Prawns

£10

4 Salmon Fillets 200g Scottish Smoked Salmon 454g Royal Greenland Prawns

£20

6 200g 454g 100g 4

Salmon Fillets Scottish Smoked Salmon Royal Greenland Prawns Shrimps Potted Southport Shrimps

£30

Seafood Platter Party Pack 1kg 4 1 228g 125g 125g 125g 125g 16

Full Side Salmon min. 1kg Scottish Smoked Salmon Potted Southport Shrimps Prawn Ring Mixed Crab Meat Shrimps Cockles Muscles Crayfish Crab Sticks

£60

Ready to Eat Seafood • Fresh Whole Fish • Smoked Fish • Southport Brown Shrimp • Competitive Prices Email: sales@peetsplaice.co.uk

PAGE 26.indd 1

1113361

Stall 5 Southport Market · Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm · 07877 125 999

07/11/2012 10:21

Within The Alexandra & Victoria Hotel • The Promenade, Southport

CALL 01704 548549 TO BOOK NOW!

FESTIVE LUNCH

2 Courses £12.95 3 courses £14.95

FESTIVE DINNER

2 Courses £17.95

3 courses £19.95

Starters

Starters

Homemade Soup of the Day

Homemade Soup of the day

Smoked Bacon, Apple & Blue Cheese Salad Chicken Liver Paté, Toasted Brioche, Pear Chutney Prawn & Crayfish Marierose, Crisp Iceburg Lettuce, Garlic Croutons

Pan-fried Seabass, Pea & Wasabi Purée, Sautéed Parsnips Mediterranean Vegetable Tian, Goats Cheese, Red Pepper Dressing Confit Duck Spring Roll, Cucumber Salsa

Panned Brie, Orange & Cranberry Chutney

Main Courses Roasted Turkey Crown, Roast Potatoes, Sausages wrapped in Bacon, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Turkey Gravy and Sprouts Navarin of Lamb, Tarragon Crushed New Potatoes, Onions and Peas, Prawn & Chive Butter, Watercress

Main Courses Roasted Turkey Crown, Roast Potatoes, Sausages wrapped in Bacon, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Turkey Gravy Pan-fried Hake Supreme, Bubble & Squeak Potato Cake, Tomato & Chive Butter Sauce Braised Lamb Henry, Baby Onions, Canternay Carrots, Sweet Port Jus, Garlic & Thyme Roasted Potatoes

5oz Rump Steak, Chips, Peppercorn Sauce and Dressed Salad Tomato & Red Pepper Pasta, Fresh Basil, Mozzarella

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

7oz Ribeye Steak, Chips, Peppercorn Sauce and Dressed Salad

CHRISTMAS DAY 5 Courses £45pp

Dates available Friday 7th, 14th & 21st December Saturday 22nd December

Children 12 and under £25

+ Live Entertainment DISCO AND TABLE MAGIC

BOXING DAY & NEW YEAR’S DAY

3 Course Meal

£24.95

pp

Sittings 12 noon and 3pm

3 Courses £17.95pp

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

5 Course Gourmet meal and a glass of bubbly at midnight Live entertainment with

AMY HOUSEWINE + Disco pp

£45

Why not make a night of it and book a room in the hotel? Includes a full English breakfast in the morning.

Special rates when booking a party night!

CALL FOR DETAILS

THE £5 2-COURSE LUNCH RETURNS 2nd JANUARY 1113694 dining rooms.indd 1

07/11/2012 10:22

u n e M d e z i S e t i B A

or some d o o f r e osh fing p y l e v ll want lo eats wi r u t o d y n r a e s Wheth e nibble s e h t , t uffe ther. If b e a g r o t o f t recipes mple ge i s a t s u j t party sion or c a e c f c e o p y e suit an ld be th u o h s y st of o s, the Ê M p . a s l n u a c hf serving o mout w t r o e n in on ’t have e n t o a d e e u ce so yo size to b n a v d a in . e made b n a c en later h c t i them k e h me in t i t d n e to sp

Stuffed Dates Ingredients Makes: 32

450g streaky bacon rashers, cut in half 450g pitted dates 100g cheese of choice, crumbly

Method

Preheat the oven to 190 C / Gas 5.

Slice dates in half, and open them up.

Crumble cheese and place a little into the centre of the dates. Close the halves of the dates, and wrap a half-slice of bacon around the outside. Secure each one with a wooden skewer. Arrange in a baking dish or on a baking tray with sides to catch any grease. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.

Turn dates over after the first 20 minutes for even cooking.

28

Bite Sized.indd 1

Pear & Ham Rolls Picture: Good Food

Strawberry & Ricotta Bruschetta Picture: Kate Mathis Ingredients

Ingredients

2 ripe, firm pears, cored and halved 1 tsp lemon juice 2 large handfuls of rocket 12 slices prosciutto 30g Parmesan, shaved with a potato peeler 24 cocktail sticks

2 tbsp packed brown sugar 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1 lb strawberries, hulled and cut into 1/3-inch slices 8 slices (3/4in thick) rustic bread 500ml Ricotta cheese basil leaves, torn if large

Method

Method

Cut each pear half into 4 long pieces.

Combine the pears and lemon juice and season.

Put a pear slice and a few leaves of rocket on each prosciutto slice. Add a shaving of Parmesan, roll tightly and secure with 2 cocktail sticks. Roll all the others, then cut each in half in between the cocktail sticks.

In a large bowl, stir brown sugar, vinegar, and vanilla until sugar dissolves.

Stir in sliced strawberries. Let stand 1 hour. Toast bread until golden brown.

Cool completely. Spread 2 tablespoons ricotta on each bread slice. Alternate strawberries and basil leaves in a single layer, overlapping slices. Drizzle strawberry juices over the top and serve. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:27

Orange Pasta bites Ingredients

Make a basic pasta dough, replacing the salt with 2 tbsp caster sugar grated zest of 1 orange replace the oil with orange juice icing sugar

Method

1. Make the basic dough, replacing the salt with 2 tbsp caster sugar, adding the grated zest of 1 orange and replace the oil with orange juice. Rest, roll out and, use a crinkled pastry cutter to cut into short, wide strips.

2. Heat a pan half-filled with vegetable oil until a bread cube turns golden in 45 seconds. Fry the pasta in batches for 45 seconds, until golden. Drain. Dust with icing sugar. Serve cool or slightly warm.

Boozy Coffee with Pecan Mince Pies Picture: Delicious magazine Ingredients

375g sheet fresh ready-rolled shortcrust pastry 50g marzipan, cut into 24 pieces 1/2 x 411g jar mincemeat 24 pecan halves

Freshly brewed coffee 25g dark chocolate, chopped 4 tbsp brandy 142ml carton double cream 2 tsp caster sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Picture by: Whichcrafter Ingredients Makes: 16

1 egg, lightly beaten 1 bunch fresh parsley, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 3/4 teaspoon dried red chilli flakes (optional) 340g Feta cheese, crumbled 12 sheets filo pastry 350g unsalted butter, melted

Method Preheat oven to 180 C / Gas mark 4.

Lightly butter a large baking tray, or line with parchment.

In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, parsley, garlic and red chilli flakes. Mix in Feta.

One sheet at a time, place filo pastry on a flat surface and brush with about 1 tablespoon butter. Cut lengthways into 4 strips. Place a rounded teaspoon of the egg mixture at one end of each strip. Fold corner of strip over the filling, forming a triangular fold. Continue folding the length of the strip in triangular folds to form a small stuffed triangle. Repeat with remaining filo.

Arrange stuffed filo triangles in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until lightly browned. Serve warm. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Bite Sized.indd 2

Picture: Christina Ingredients

For the coffee

Cheese Parcels

Spicy Chicken Pieces

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190째C/fan170째C/ gas 5. Unroll the pastry and use a cutter to make 24 x 6cm circles. Use to line 2 x 12-hole mini bun tins. Roll each piece of marzipan into a ball and press gently into each pastry case, flattening slightly.

2. Add a teaspoon of mincemeat to each and bake for 10 minutes. Top each with a pecan half and bake for a further 5 minutes or until the pastry is golden.

Remove and cool slightly on a wire rack while you make the coffee.

3. Mix the coffee and chocolate together until the chocolate has melted, then stir in the brandy. Pour into coffee mugs. Gently whip the cream, sugar and cinnamon to soft peaks and spoon onto each coffee.

Serve with the warm mince pies.

475ml buttermilk 2 tbsp hot pepper sauce 1 tsp salt 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic granules 20 chicken pieces 85g cornflakes, crushed 60g plain flour 70g cornmeal 1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste 350g honey 1 tbsp crushed chilli flakes

Method

Preheat an oven to 200 C / Gas 6.

Grease baking trays Mix together the buttermilk, hot pepper sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, onion powder and garlic granules in a bowl, add the chicken, coat with the marinade and marinate in the refrigerator 12 to 24 hours.

Mix the crushed cornflakes, flour, cornmeal, salt and pepper to taste in a bowl. Remove the chicken from the marinade. Press the chicken pieces in the cornflake mix and place onto the baking trays.

Bake for about 30-40 minutes. While the chicken is cooking, stir together the honey and crushed chilli flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat until the honey thins. Keep warm. Once the chicken is cooked, place the wings into a large mixing bowl and drizzle with the honey sauce. Toss until evenly coated.

Now you will have a big pile of hot, crunchy, spicy, sticky wings.

Serve warm or cold.

29

07/11/2012 10:26

Inspired to Achieve St. Mary’s College is a thriving community which places a high value on outstanding academic achievement and all-round personal development. Our school is built on strong values which emphasise the importance of caring for others and striving for excellence in all we do. We celebrated another fantastic set of exam results in 2012, with 100% of our pupils achieving 5 or more GCSEs at A*– C grade and a 100% pass rate at A Level. However, success at St. Mary’s is measured by much more than examination results; our rich programme of extra-curricular activities equips our pupils with the skills and values which will guide and support them throughout their lives.

Visiting Day – Whole School

Scholarships available:

Friday 11th January 2013, 9am – 3pm

■ Open Academic Scholarships

Come and sample a taste of life at St. Mary’s, meet our wonderful pupils and staff, and find out more about the fantastic learning and development opportunities on offer. Bright Sparks & Early Years, The Mount and the College will be open to visitors anytime between 9am – 3pm.

■ Edmund Rice Scholarships (assisted places)

11+ Entrance Examination

We also operate a very generous sibling discount policy

■ Excellence Awards in Art, Music and Sport

Friday 25th January 2013

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 1113691

St. Mary’s College Crosby Trust Limited. Reg. Office: St. Mary’s College, Everest Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 5TW Registered in England - Company No. 05412328 Registered Charity No. 1110311

1113691 st marys.indd 1 2013 2.indd 1 Advert - GR8 Life - Perform

07/11/2012 10:28 30/10/12 14:47:16

We all know how difficult it can be to buy Christmas presents for our loved ones, especially when you feel you have exhausted all angles. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Dear Father Christmas.indd 2

However, this is where Dobbies Garden Centre can come to the rescue with a huge selection of gifts for her, him and the kids.

And it’s not all wheelbarrows and potted plants either, with hampers, home décor, candles, luxury body creams and bubble baths all ready to be taken home this Christmas.

All you need to help you with your Christmas shopping this year, is our handy gift guide and Dobbies can be your one stop shop for everything you need – you can even order your Christmas dinner, tree and decorations while you are there!

31

07/11/2012 10:30

Dobbies has a huge range of gifts perfect for her this

Berry Heart Wreath £15

Christmas which will help you sail into the good books and stay there!

As well as the traditional presents that never fail, there is also a selection of

3 for 2 (black and red) mix and match from £6

Wall Clock £15

3 for 2 mix and match from £6

Yankee Christmas Gift Set £20

gifts for her you may never have thought of, so enjoy the experience and buy her a gift she will really appreciate.

Chocolate Lover Hamper £40

Christmas Celebration £23

Oil Lamp £24

Taste of Italy £60

32

Dear Father Christmas.indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:31

Supabright Lights £10 Men can be notoriously difficult to buy for so to make sure you are ahead of the game; here is some inspiration which will help you along the way.

Dobbies Linear, Juncus £9.99

Brewer Hamper £15

Hanging Cotton Rudolph or Santa £3.99 each

For the Love of Birds Hamper from £15

RHS Cheese Dome £20

Grow Your Own Hamper from £12

Christmas Treats £24

Best of British £80

Gr8 Life magazine

Dear Father Christmas.indd 4

33

07/11/2012 10:31

Kids are undoubtedly the most important family members when it comes to Christmas and watching their little faces light up as their unwrap they presents on Christmas morning cannot be beaten.

Dobbies have a great selection of kids presents available at such reasonable prices you will be able to spoil them without breaking the bank!

Giant Teddy £20

Animal Pillows — small £5 and large £10 Rudolph Hobby Horse £12

Dobbies Little Seedlings Club Set £8 34

Dear Father Christmas.indd 5

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:32

Dobbies is the most magical place to visit at Christmas time with fun and festive inspiration for the whole family.

With Santa parties, musical entertainment such as Santa’s band and 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.

Ladies Night

Santa’s Post Box

Thursday 15th November 5pm – 8pm

Throughout December

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: Design festive displays 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 CLIC Sargent.

Santa Arrives!

Sunday 25th November, 11am

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 1st December £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?

Little Seedlings Christmas Party+ Sunday 2nd December

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 25th November to Monday 24th 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! +Children attending this event must be accompanied by an adult for the duration.

Check in-store for event time.

Dobbies Festive Foodies 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 from our customer service desk as Santa can be a very busy man indeed! Tickets £5 and can be booked in advance from Saturday 2nd November.

Gr8 Life magazine

Dear Father Christmas.indd 6

Thursday 6th 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 demonstrations including inspiring ideas for your Christmas dinner and the choosing the perfect Christmas cheese board Tickets £1 and all proceeds will be donated to CLIC Sargent.

For more information contact Dobbies Garden World Southport at Benthams Way, Birkdale, Southport, PR8 4HX or call 01704 552 920.

35

07/11/2012 10:32

Cachet - Happy 10th Birthday!

Footwear and accessories boutique Cachet is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year after opening its doors on 31st October 2002.

The shop offers something very different to what you would expect to find on the high street and customer service is second to none with owner Karen personally serving many of her customers.

Brands available include Paul Smith, Ugg Australia, Vivienne Westwood, Irregular Choice among others.

Karen says, “I love shoes and accessories so when I was looking for a change of career I decided to open my own shop and haven’t looked back! We have many brands which are quirky and hard to find in most shops so it’s nice when you go shopping to see something different.”

Karen also understands how the economic climate has affected many people and so offers a ‘Pay it off’ scheme enabling you to put an item you love away and pay the balance in instalments until it is yours. This secures a favourite item without having to worry about your bank balance!

To celebrate the 10 year anniversary Karen recently hosted a very successful event in store with mulled wine, nibbles and many product discounts. She also launched a new clothing collection from Bourne which will offer yet more choice in the store.

Karen adds, “We offer a friendly service but aren’t pushy so customers can pop in and feel free to look around without the obligation to buy. Having a one to one relationship with our customers allows us to tailor service and advise towards each individual as we know what they like and don’t like. Many of our customers have been shopping with us since we opened ten years ago and so I know them really well. It is nice for them to see a friendly face when they come in knowing I remember them from one visit to the next.”

Cachet also have a website which is a great way to purchase items when you can’t make it into the store.

Karen is offering 10% off your purchases either in store or if shopping online enter discount code CACHET10 at the checkout, valid until 24/12/12.

10%Shop OFF PURCHASES online using code: CACHET10 at checkout

Valid until 24/12/2012

22 Union Street, Southport, PR9 0QE

Telephone: 01704 537555 Follow us …

PAGE 36.indd 1

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Website: www.cachetshoes.co.uk

07/11/2012 10:34

13 things

you must do in 2013

The number 13 might be unlucky for some, but every new year is a chance to follow new opportunities, do things you haven’t done before and shake off the festive flab.

Recover from your New Year’s Day hangover Chances are 2012 will end at roughly the point you all hold hands and forget the words to Auld Lang Syne and 2013 will begin with a headache and an avoidable urge to buy some Aspirin.

Watch 2012 and feel smug The world was never really going to end in 2012, was it? Borrow a copy of the notentirely-brilliant John Cusack disaster epic on DVD, watch it one last time and conclude that the Mayans were wrong – all along. Provided the world really hasn’t ended, of course…

Break your New Year’s resolution Far too many people start their year with

David Simister takes a lighthearted look at some of the options on offer for 2013 ...

a half-hearted gym membership which is completely forgotten about by April.

This year, vow not to come up with any resolution at all and use your energy to do something a bit more meaningful. there’s more …

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

13 things.indd 2

37

07/11/2012 10:37

Record the first instance of next Christmas being promoted by retailers

Go to a county you haven’t visited before Until last year I’d never been to

I saw one pub plugging its Christmas

Norfolk, but having got in the car and driven out there for the first time I

party packages

can now confirm what everyone else

in the middle of

already knows; yes, the Broads are

August this year

lovely.

- can you do any

If there’s a bit of Britain’s green and

better than that?

pleasant countryside you haven’t

Record the first blatantly-festive promotion

visited yet, why not make a day of it and find out what you’re missing?

you see in 2013, share it with the

Vow not to develop triskaidekaphobia

world on Facebook or Twitter, and help confirm once and for all the persisting thought that the Christmas countdown

Car manufacturers are already

really does start earlier every year.

banking on lower sales this spring

Stick it to the chuggers by doing something noble for charity

because people are genuinely afraid of buying a 13-reg car.

If you’re worried a number is going to bring you bad luck, either seek help now or take a leaf out of the housing market’s book by referring

If you hate

to the next twelve months as 2012A.

chuggers - sorry, face-toface fundraisers - as much as I do

Get a new hobby

then finding another way to help raise funds for a good cause might

On the other hand, there’s 12 whole

help avoid the guilt trips on Chapel

months to use the time you weren’t

Street. If you’ve got a cause you’re

going to spend at the gym anyway

passionate about, why not use 2013

doing something a bit different.

to help make a difference?

I’m not suggesting you take up wing-walking on a whim or take

Save a country pub from closing down

some of the suggestions from that Extreme Ironing book you

In 2012 a string of pubs across the north west called

got for Christmas literally, but there

last orders and shut their doors for the final time. Help your

are plenty of interesting activities

local buck the trend by popping in for a pint, find out more

on offer - and lots of locally-based

about special events being held at pubs across the region,

groups and organisations who’ll

and get in touch with organisations such as the Campaign for

be able to help you with your new

Real Ale (CAMRA) to find out how you can help.

hobby.

38

13 things.indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:38

See how long you can go without the internet

Find out about your illustrious ancestors

Are you addicted to your iPhone or glued

Genealogy - or finding out about

to your PC? The 2013 edition of mental

your family tree, in layman’s

health encyclopedia, The Diagnostic &

English - is a really popular way of

Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

learning more about life in decades,

is, for the first time, listing compulsive

sometimes even centuries, gone by, and it’s a cheap, easy and educational hobby to take up.

I, for instance, discovered I’m distantly descended from Sir Thomas Hardy (pictured), who commanded HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. Apparently.

internet use as a possible disorder. If you can’t go more than a few days without feeling compelled to get online, maybe

Buy a bike and go exploring

2013 is an opportunity to log out for a Even though I’m this magazine’s

little while.

motoring writer and a self-confessed

Go to The Atkinson (when it re-opens)

car addict, I love cycling because it’s a great way to keep fit while finding bits of pleasant countryside you’d never spot from behind the wheel. If going to the

Southport’s centre of arts and culture,

gym isn’t your idea of staying healthy

which has been closed since 2009,

then getting a bike

is expected to reopen its doors in

and going for a

2013 after an extensive revamp,

ride is a simple and

and there are a series of shows

cheap way to go

and festivals due to take place

exploring and enjoy

there over the next 12 months.

yourself.

Whatever you choose to undertake in the coming year, enjoy yourself. Life is too short for “what ifs”.

Gr8 Life magazine

13 things.indd 4

39

07/11/2012 10:38

CPR083_Wayf_Xmas_ads_MASTER_CPR083_Wayf_Xmas_ads_MASTER 23/10/2012 15:34 Page 1

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade

Where Christmas begins

Enjoy a magical shopping experience this Christmas at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, home to 30 independent retailers.

There is something for all the family whether you are looking for festive fashions or gorgeous gifts the variety of shops that this iconic Victorian arcade has to offer will certainly not disappoint.You can even sit back, relax and enjoy the music between shopping with morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea.

There’s always something to do

Visit Santa on 1st December from 11am for the launch of his magical Grotto with a host of mystery guests! You can also compete in the exciting 12 days of Christmas trail which will be around the arcade until 4th January.

Santa’s Grotto is open every Saturday and Sunday from 1st December 11am - 4pm.

From Monday 17th to Friday 21st December 11am - 4pm and Christmas Eve 11am - 2pm.

Easy to find in the centre of Lord Street, opposite the Town Hall.

For further information visit

www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk

1113056 wayfarers.indd 1

Traditional surroundings...contemporary style

1113056

Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm, Sundays 10am – 5pm

07/11/2012 10:39

Christmas at

Wayfarers For years, Wayfarers shopping arcade on Lord Street has been the picture postcard example of where to shop at Christmas if you want a festive shopping experience. With beautiful displays, a Santa’s Grotto and a huge range of gifts from the many independent retailers, Wayfarers is perfect to get you into the Christmas spirit! www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Christmas at Wayfarers.indd 2

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07/11/2012 10:41

Delve into a destination packed full of

windows around the arcade and have the chance to

independent retailers and unique boutiques selling

enter a fantastic competition. Wayfarers Shopping

gorgeous gifts and providing hours of family fun.

Arcade loves contributing to the community and as

This stunning Grade II listed Victorian style arcade

such each day of Christmas has been designed and

offers contemporary style in traditional surroundings

produced by the students of Southport College as

and will cater to your every retail need.

part of their first term curriculum.

Saturday, December 1, sees Santa take up

Gillian Williams, curriculum leader for Art and

residence at his magical Grotto within the arcade.

Design at Southport College, said; “It is absolutely

The grotto is open every Saturday and Sunday

excellent that Wayfarers have allowed the pupils

in December from 11am – 4pm. From Monday,

on the arts course to produce artefacts for their

December 17 to Friday, December 21 the grotto will

shop windows. This really allows the students

be open from 11am – 4pm and on Christmas Eve,

to work to a real brief from an actual customer.

11am – 2pm.

A great preparation for when they start in the

The opening of Santa’s Grotto also coincides

working art world!”

with the launch of the 12 days of Christmas Trail

A good old fashioned sing-along helps get this

running right through until Friday, January 4.

celebratory season off to a great start and Saturday,

Children, and grown ups, of all ages can take part in

December 15 will see the Julie Ann Carr singers

finding the 12 days of Christmas hidden in the shop

performing a carol concert from 2 – 4pm.

42

Christmas at Wayfarers.indd 3

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07/11/2012 10:41

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade also plays host to

existing light fittings have been replaced.

two independent cafés. So while having a break

Nicola Lynch, Managing Director, Wayfarers

from shopping you can enjoy a morning coffee

Shopping Arcade, said; “It has been a long,

in Saveurs de France and experience authentic

gradual process to modernise the arcade and

French-style light bites and pastries. Or you could

make it a more engaging place in which to shop.

enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the bistro style

We’re really looking forward to a busy Christmas

café Pudding & Pie, known locally for serving

period in the town.”

traditional British home cooked meals.

You know Christmas has started when the halls are decked with Christmas decorations

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade is dedicated to providing not only a wonderful shopping experience but also a fun and festive family day out.

and Wayfarers Shopping Arcade certainly pulls out all the stops. With a full-size Christmas tree and decorations from pillar to post, you will

Gr8 Life magazine

Christmas at Wayfarers.indd 4

undoubtedly be in the festive spirit. The arcade

For

has recently undergone a massive restoration

Shopping

project to ensure it will be illuminated at this

Arcade Manager on 01704 539 077 or via email

wonderful time of year. Energy efficient LED

Yvonne@wayfarersarcade.co.uk alternatively visit

lights have been put into operation and over 100

www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk

more

information

Arcade

contact

on

Wayfarers

Yvonne

Burns,

43

07/11/2012 10:41

in

le

as!

als

9 17.99

age

Cove – the perfect shopping experience Cove is a leading retailer of women’s designer clothes, footwear and accessories selling top quality brands like Firetrap, French Connection, Kate Sheridan, Marc B, Religion and Traffic People to name a few. By ensuring they only stock cutting edge ladies designer clothes they have acquired a reputation for forward looking, up to the minute fashion.

All their brands are available from their website, www. cove-online.com where internet shopping is easy and safe with fast and efficient delivery times, including a free delivery option and an easy to navigate returns system. If you can’t decide between those Christmas party dresses, then just order a selection to try on in the comfort of your own home and simply return any that are not suitable.

While you are shopping for ladies designer clothes you can also pick up some bath and body care products from Cove.

Maybe you need a gift for someone, well you can find some fantastic luxurious bath products on the website. If you try Cove and like the experience and great women’s designer clothes available you can also sign up for their newsletter to be among the first to hear of new collections, events and exciting offers. All items make fabulous Christmas gifts and with a no quibble returns policy you can’t go wrong!

Dine in

Style

this Christmas!

Check our website for

Christmas Party Deals www.ruffordarms.com

2 Course Festive Lunch from £14.99 3 Course Festive Evening Meal from £17.99 Why bother getting a taxi home?

Stay with us on our…

Christmas Cracker Accommodation Package

d or from y with der!

Available 26/11/12 - 23/12/12 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!

lling ackage’

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

All for only £110 per couple!

e!

e

Alexander’s Brasserie

Q

380 Liverpool Road, Rufford L40 1SQ

0

TELEPHONE 01704 8722040

@ The Rufford Arms Hotel www.ruffordarms.com

@ruffordarms

✁

NEW YEAR BONUS

✁

20% OFF YOUR FOOD BILL

✁

Rufford Arms Hotel

arms

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 2013.

nuary . nts. on of 1113257

0

PAGE 44.indd 1

TO RESERVE YOU TABLE CALL 01704 822040

07/11/2012 12:59

It has come a long way from the humble transport

Gr8 Life’s Louisa Austin visits this popular West Lancashire hotel and restaurant.

café it was over 40 years ago and has been through quite a few transformations in the last two decades. Owner Sue Lockwood bought the business in November 1991 and has been here ever since, hands on and front of house, making sure it is running as it should be.

The Rufford Arms has been open for 21 years and by the amount of people having lunch when I visited, is just as popular as ever.

“When we first moved in quite a lot of work needed doing. Since then we have landscaped the outside areas and the kitchens have been fully re designed,” Sue explains.

“All the fourteen bedrooms have been refurbished as they were very old fashioned with dark furniture, now they are very bright and modern.

“The restaurant has been complete gutted, walls have

Back in the day as a transport café

been taken out, a new bar put in place and new decor, fixtures and fittings.” She adds, “ We have always believed in reinvestment as our intention was to be in it for the long haul - not here today, gone tomorrow.”

The work Sue and her husband have put into the business certainly shows and you are met by a bright modern décor as you walk in, the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a few friends.

I took the opportunity to visit with my husband Paul and enjoyed a beautiful lunch of sauté king prawn and chorizo followed by oriental pork medallions. Paul opted for the Duck and vegetable spring rolls and then the grilled Plaice fillet and looked delighted with his courses when they arrived.

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The Rufford Arms.indd 2

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07/11/2012 10:49

The atmosphere was also upbeat with the tables slowly filling as lunchtime service began. The impressive menu isn’t accidental however and a huge amount of planning goes into the food which is served.

“Menu planning is a collaboration,” Sue explains.

“Obviously front of house staff get a lot of feed back from customers so we know what is a success and what isn’t.

The menu is changed about three times a year in line with seasonal change and head chef Richard Simpson and his team usually present their ideas after we have had a meeting to agree what needs to change. From here we plan the menu changes and review them together. 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 that we can make the best of local produce on offer and it also helps test the water with new dishes.”

However, it isn’t all about the food as hotel has a packed schedule of entertainment throughout the year and there are many entertainment nights which include food in the run up to Christmas and New Year. “These nights are so popular and everyone always has a great time. They get booked up fast though!”

Before Sue took on the Rufford Arms she was no stranger to the catering industry having worked for several hospitality businesses beforehand and studying Hospitality Management at school.

Sue adds, “I worked for a company called First Leisure and worked all over the country as they owned night clubs, bowling centres, snooker halls, piers, hotels, fitness centre, fun fairs and Blackpool Tower. I trained with them then did various jobs from running night clubs to spinning waltzers on the fun fair.

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www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:49

‘CHRISTMAS CRACKER’ PACKAGE

An overnight stay with a 3 course festive menu and a full breakfast the following morning

£110 per couple “My last job before the Rufford Arms was running Blackpool Super bowl and the cafe bar called Brannigans.

Not a job for the faint hearted in high season!”

What struck both Paul and myself from the minute we walked in to the moment we left was the attention to detail and service being provided by not only Sue but her team of waiting on staff. Every diner was attended to as if they were royalty and it was clear to see this was noted and greatly appreciated by each and every one.

Sue says, “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 good service and standards. I believe that other peoples opinions matter.”

So what does Sue think are the most important elements to a successful hospitality business? “I believe reinvestment in both business and staff reaps the best rewards and being consistent in what you offer.

Listening to guests, offering a good quality of both food and service, creating a good atmosphere and being flexible and accommodating. I also think value for money is very important these days. We are not the cheapest, nor the most expensive, but I do feel we offer value for money.”

You only need to watch Sue during the lunch time servings to know she is extremely passionate and dedicated to her business, but does she have anything else she would like to achieve, or any dreams for the future? “I am very focused on the here and now. This business is my life and the reason I get up in the morning.

I suppose you could say I already have my dream.”

Rufford Arms Hotel is at 380 Liverpool Road, Rufford, Ormskirk L40 1SQ. Telephone 01704 822040.

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The Rufford Arms.indd 4

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07/11/2012 10:49

SOUTHPORT

Mind Games Southport

We stock hundreds of jigsaws from 20 pieces to over 2000 including Gibsons, Jumbo and Ravensburger, as well as puzzle magazines, scraperfoils, books and pocket money toys.

Prices start from 20p.

Gift vouchers available.

Christmas … a

Mrs G’s Fruit & Veg

Just Cakes of Southport

We offer a complete range of fruit, vegetables, salads, exotics, eggs and much more including wonderful Lancashire crisps. Our stock is so vast we even have ten different types of potatoes. Fresh daily from local farmers and suppliers and we deliver free within our local area (minimum spend £7). Look out for our daily offers. Christmas orders now being taken.

Reilly’s Butchers

Simply LCD Computers

Traditional quality meat and sausages cut and trimmed to your requirements. Get a FREE chicken when you buy a £19.99 meat pack which includes a pound of mince, pork sausages, diced beef and back bacon as well as 4 x 4oz pork steaks and gammon steaks plus 6 eggs. www.reillysbutchers.co.uk

Orquidea Alterations

Liverpool Cheese Company

Award winning specialist Cheese Shop with 200 speciality cheeses along with chutneys, biscuits, gift boxes, cakes made of cheese and other good things. Call in and see our well-trained staff who will be happy to advise you. www.liverpoolcheesecompany.co.uk 48

southport market spread.indd 1

We repair and upgrade PC’s and Laptops, sell new laptops from £299 and used from £199. We reload Windows; remove antivirus and spyware, stock most spares for PC, repair XBOX 360/PS3 and Wii. Warranties and guarantees are included. www.simplylcd.co.uk

We carry out all types of alterations on any type of clothing. Leather specialists and our experienced seamstress can do anything. We sell a wide range of hats, tablecloths and much more.

Visit us on Facebook or contact 07871 773 595

Scoozi Pizza & Pasta

Probably the best Pizza and pasta in Southport, you can collect any 14” Pizza at any time for only £5.99. Lunchtime specials served from 10am3pm - Any Pasta £2.49, with garlic bread and a can £3.99.

Any 9” Pizza with a can £2.49 and include a salad £3.49.

We deliver free up to 11pm Call 01704 533399

Now supplying cake-decorating material from 5p to £5. We create edible photographs to put on our cakes or your own.

We sell cakes for all occasions and can make them to order and have an extensive range of cup cakes. www.justcakesofsouthport.co.uk

Southport Indoor Market Blinds

Manufacturers of all types of blinds, we offer a free measuring and fi tting service.

Why buy new - we offer a replacement service with vertical blind slats from only £1 per slat and we sell weights and chains. 01704 571596 or 07704 842077.

Greetings Cards

We have a good selection of all types of greetings card and small gifts for all the family and we now have our comprehensive Christmas stock available. Come along and browse with cards from as little as 95p. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 12:11

MARKET

… all under one roof Mustard Coffee House

Everyone loves Christmas but Christmas shopping can be a fraught affair.

Well not anymore! With a brand new, totally redesigned layout, Southport Market in King Street has it all.

From specialist Christmas foods, including local turkeys, best meats, the freshest of vegetables and fruits for that “just picked” Mustard serves the finest 100% Arabica Illy coffee, gluten free cakes and delicious Canadian/American breakfasts, noodles and gourmet burgers.

Join us this festive period for a glass of warm mulled wine! Open every Sunday through December.

flavour. You’ll find regional delicacies like the world famous Southport shrimps, to amazing cakes you won’t find anywhere else … Southport Market is the one-stop shop for keen cooks and foodies! And remember that Southport market organises

Bernadette’s Cosmetics & Fashion Accessories

At Bernadette’s we sell a wide range of cosmetics and fashion accessory products including a comprehensive range of quality wigs. All our stock is permanently up to 75% off high street prices and we welcome customers old and new.

great food demonstrations and tastings.

Southport Market boasts of 46 stalls easily rivalling high street and supermarket alternatives.

Hand crafted toiletries, gorgeous luggage, computer games, terrific clothes, unique flowers and plants, Southport Market can really say it has it all!

Fairfield Plants Celebrate Christmas with Fairfield Plants; we have a wide range of ornamental trees, wreaths, poinsettias, amaryllis, table centres, garden ornaments, gift vouchers and much more. Get all your Christmas gifts here and we will deliver them free of charge.

And at Christmas, Southport Market becomes quite magical too with decorations and atmosphere that are sure to put a smile even on Scrooge’s face. With visits planned from Santa and his Elves on 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December, the market will become a favourite for kids as well as Mums and Dads too.

Within its redevelopment, the Market has also given more than

Rock-a-Bye Baby Boutique

Peets Plaice Fish & Seafood

a nod towards great European markets with great food you can eat all day, of a quality similar to some of the best local eateries.

From Canadian/American breakfast to great noodle dishes and gourmet burgers as well as some of the best cakes you’ll ever be able to choose from, Southport Market delivers.

Best of all, Southport market is just unbeatable for value,

We have a wide selection of beautiful baby clothes from newborn onward including a selection of stunning Christening outfi ts all at reasonable prices. Winter coats are a speciality and are now in stock. All year round savings club. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

southport market spread.indd 2

Kev Peet is known as the fisherman and goes out early most days to catch the fish he sells on his stall, it couldn’t be much fresher than that. He also goes shrimping for the world famous Southport Shrimps and boasts one of the best fresh fish stalls in Southport.

offering a huge range of choices at much lower prices than many supermarkets and stores on the high street.

So if you don’t fancy fighting in busy crowded shops or trawling the Internet for hours on end this Christmas, take yourself down to Southport Market for a wonderful shopping trip!

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07/11/2012 12:11

There is nothing better over the festive season than getting together with your friends and family and enjoy a few drinks.

Cocktails are always a popular choice and so wouldn’t it be great if you could make your own and impress all your party guests?

They are surprisingly simple to make and to make your life even easier we have provided you with several recipes to tantalise those taste buds.

There are even some non-alcoholic options for the designated drivers.

Crush a sprig

Over ice cubes,

Shake together

Shake together

Put some fresh

of mint with a

pour four parts

one part peppermint

six parts pineapple

mint leaves in the

teaspoon of sugar

cranberry juice, two

cordial and four

juice, one part

bottom of a glass

at the bottom of a

parts orange juice,

parts fresh cream.

grapefruit juice, two

and then add a

glass to extract the

one part lemon juice

parts coconut cream,

generous amount of

mint flavour.

and ginger ale to

two parts fresh

crushed ice.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice

top up.

crushed ice.

Finely grate a

Garnish with

and lots of

Strain and add

fruit and serve

little plain chocolate over the top.

with straws.

ice.

cream and a scoop of crushed ice.

Stir 2 tablespoons of grapefruit juice witha quarter teaspoon of honey

Top

until the honey is

up with

entirely dissolved.

ginger ale,

Transfer the

garnish with

dissolved honey/

a sprig of

grapefruit juice to a

mint or a twist

cocktail shaker with 4

of lemon peel

additional tablespoons

and serve with

of grapefruit juice

straws.

and give it a good Southern Belle

Grapefruit Mojito

shake with ice. Strain into a tumbler glass and serve.

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07/11/2012 10:52

• 1 sugar cube

• 40ml Vodka

• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters

• 15ml Cointreau

• 20ml Cognac

• 15ml Fresh lime juice

• Champagne to fill the glass

• 30ml Cranberry juice • Orange Peel

Place the sugar cube onto a spoon and add two dashes of Angostura Bitters.

Drop the soaked sugar cube into a champagne flute and add 20ml Cognac.

Top up the glass with champagne and serve.

Shake all the ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker.

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with an orange peel.

Use citron vodka in place of unflavoured vodka for a fruitier taste.

• 6 Earl Grey tea bags

• 100g light muscovado sugar

• 180ml Gin

• 1 star anise

• 8 ice cubes

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 4 large lemons, 3 juiced, 1 cut into wedges

• 4 cloves

• 120ml sugar syrup (shop-bought or make

• 150ml water

your own, as below)

• 1 lemon and 2 clementines

For the sugar syrup:

• 150ml Cointreau

• 440ml water

• 750ml bottle light red wine, such as Beaujolais

• 440g golden caster sugar

• Twist of orange zest and a star anise, to serve

To make the sugar syrup put the water and caster

1. Put 100g light muscovado sugar in a pan with

sugar in a pan over a low flame for about 10 minutes

one star anise, one cinnamon stick, four cloves and

until the sugar has dissolved. Cool completely.

150ml water. Bring slowly to the boil, stirring to

Steep the tea bags in the Gin for 10 minutes. Strain and put in a cocktail shaker on top of the ice cubes.

Pour in the lemon juice and 120ml of syrup.

dissolve the sugar.

2. Simmer for 2 minutes, then pour into a large jug and leave to cool. Add one lemon and two clementines, both thinly sliced, to the jug along with 150ml Cointreau and a 750ml bottle light red

Shake for a couple of minutes.

wine, such as a Beaujolais. Stir well, then cover and

Pour into 2 cocktail glasses and

chill for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can.

rub the edge of the glass with a lemon wedge.

3. Serve chilled or over ice, with a twist of orange zest and a star anise. If you’d like to serve a traditional warm mulled wine, there’s no need to chill - simply warm through without boiling and serve in heatproof glasses.

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festive cocktails.indd 2

51

07/11/2012 10:52

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07/11/2012 15:18

All I want for Christmas is ‌

Our resident motors expert David Simister drives the new Morgan Threewheeler and tells us why it is now top of his Christmas list.

Forget footballers, astronauts and train drivers. When I grow up, I want to be a superhero. Not some latex-clad, cape-donning crime fighter you’d see in the movies either. I want to be a proper superhero in the plucky, stiff upper lip British tradition, a sort of Biggles meets Dan Dare sort of character.

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

All i want for Christmas is.....indd 2

53

07/11/2012 10:54

Naturally, a plucky, traditional sort of British

recreation of the old Model T, but that’s missing

hero needs a plucky, traditional sort of car. Which

the point. The Threewheeler isn’t so much a car

is why I’m hoping to find the keys to a Morgan

in the conventional sense, but a three-wheeled

Threewheeler under the tree this Christmas.

event just waiting to be experienced.

It is a new model for the Worcestershire-

For starters, take the starter button you’ll

based sports car builders but not in the

have to press once you’ve squeezed into

conventional sense; by ditching a rear wheel

the Morgan’s narrow, leather-lined frame.

Morgan are revisiting territory they first trod a

Admittedly, all sorts of mundane motors come

century ago, when the company appealed to

with a starter button these days to inject a bit

the newfangled worlds of motoring and biking

of fizz into the ignition process, but I’ve never

by fitting tiny little two-seaters with V-twin

experienced one that can only be accessed via

engines and minimal bodywork. Think of the

a bomb-release you have to flip up with your

new one, then, as a remake of one of Britain’s

finger first. The same bomb-release you’ll find

oldest automotive adventures.

fitted, by the way, to the Eurofighter Typhoon.

I know you’re probably thinking that putting a

That’s the sort of fighter pilot mentality

three-wheeled car from the 1920s with no doors,

this utterly mad and yet utterly endearing little

no roof and no windscreen back into production

Morgan puts you in as soon as you fire up the

is a bit like Ford replacing the Focus with a

2.0 litre S&S motorbike engine into life.

54

All i want for Christmas is.....indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 10:54

The American-made power plant, a favourite with Harley-Davidson customisers in the States, bursts into life in a deep, meaty rumble which reverberates off the nearby walls before settling into the lazy, laid-back burble anyone familiar with a classic motorbike will recognise. Mounted right between the front two wheels, it’s a magnificently tractable engine which completely dominates any Threewheeler drive, because it offers up 120bhp in a car that weighs less than half what a brand new Fiesta does.

You’d think that’d make the Threewheeler a frantic bit of fun and it is - but only when you’re happy for it come out to play. Admittedly, it’s not a car you’d ever entrust with getting your Christmas shopping home and if it rains you WILL get wet but for such an outlandish and overt bit of automotive engineering it’s remarkably civil,

before. It is a sort of cross between the open-

and it’ll dawdle along as long as you like. Right

air buzz of a microlight and the vintage style

up, of course, until the superhero in you needs to

of a Sopwith Camel fighter plane with the

do a bit of childish showing off.

deep-throated roar of an old TVR and the sheer

Plant your foot to the floor in just about any

gear

and

Threewheeler

the

so-bonkers-it’s-brilliant

unleashes

its

considerable

firepower in an explosion of noise and speed,

the more conventional four-wheelers Morgan fans already know and love.

So the Threewheeler is noisy, impractical,

the wind’s hitting you straight in the face and

eccentric and festooned with fighter jet

because absolutely everyone for miles around

technology for no reason other than it being

is looking at you. If they aren’t, they’ll definitely

cool - exactly the reasons why my superhero

hear you coming.

alter ego would have one. It is a car which exists

being

friendlier

and

more

manageable than I could’ve have hoped for - at

All i want for Christmas is.....indd 4

of car and - at £30,000 - actually cheaper than

which you’re all the more aware of because

Despite

Gr8 Life magazine

punch of a motorbike thrown in. So it’s my kind

solely for the experience it provides, which is why I absolutely love it.

first you’ll wonder where those beautiful wire

Besides, Stirling Moss owned one of the

wheels at the front are, but you get used to

originals from decades ago and described it as “a

it - it is completely unlike anything I’ve driven

bit of a babe magnet”. I rest my case.

55

07/11/2012 10:54

CPR075_Gr8_life_ad_master_CPR075_Gr8_life_ad_master 19/10/2012 12:14 Page 1

Discover the

SH RES OPP TAU ING HO RAN , TS, NIG TE HT LS, L SO M IFE & MO UCH RE!

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A magical shopping experience awaits you wherever you see this sign!

Discover the

If you love Christmas, you’ll adore Southport With fabulous independent shops and well known high street brands, you can experience fantastic shopping this Christmas right here on your doorstep. Chapel Street Christmas Markets are back on 8th & 9th December and 15th & 16th December. Also look out for the Continental Christmas Market on Lord Street 13th - 17th December.

Santa is in his grotto at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade and Southport Market and there’s great seasonal entertainment around the town for all the family.

With excellent restaurants and café bars you wont want to go anywhere else.

here!

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For more information call Southport Tourist Information Centre on 01704 533 333 or visit www.visitsouthport.com

07/11/2012 10:55

With stores to inspire and excite, from high street brands to unique boutiques, there is something for everyone at Southport this Christmas.

The seaside town is dedicated to providing

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Southport does it best.indd 2

the street has to offer.

a wonderful shopping experience. Lord Street,

The iconic Lord Street will also this year

Chapel Street, Wesley Street, Eastbank Street,

welcome back the Continental Market from

Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, Central 12 Retail Park

13–17th December, with its collection of

and Ocean Plaza Retail Park are all within walking

exceptional stalls. Here you will find all kinds

distance from the train station and the plentiful

of delights from around the world, including

parking facilities which Southport has to offer.

delicious food and interesting gift ideas.

If it is high street fashion that you are looking

If you prefer to shop for something more

for head to Lord Street and Chapel Street. Both

unique you will find it in one of the many

have an array of familiar brands to ensure you

independent retailers dotted around the

look your best for the festive season. Both also

town. You can shop in the stunning Victorian-

play host to special events in December.

designed Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, which

Chapel Street will once again feature the

itself is home to 30 independent retailers

much loved Christmas Markets on December

where you will find vintage inspired home-

8, 9, 15, 16. Saturdays from 9am – 5pm and

wares and designer boutiques. Or you could

Sundays 10am – 5pm. Here you can shop,

take a trip down the pastel coloured Wesley

eat and enjoy the special entertainment that

Street, known locally as a village in a town.

57

07/11/2012 11:10

Southport Market has recently been the subject of a major redevelopment and is now a shopper’s paradise and a food lover’s delight.

You can choose from speciality cheeses, delicious pastries and first class seasonal food from local producers. There are gift ideas for everyone and eateries to help relax during the busy shopping period.

And don’t think that Christmas ends with gifts. You can combine your shopping with fun and leisure for all the family.

Ocean Plaza on Marine Parade boasts Premier Bowl and Laser, Vue Cinema, Chiquitos and many more. So after you have visited the likes of Matalan and Dunelm Mill head over to the other side of the retail park for festive family fun.

For those younger members of the family at this celebratory time of year, you can take part in the Christmas competition and hunt for the 12 Days of Christmas hidden in store windows around Wayfarers Shopping Arcade.

There are two pantomimes taking place, Goldilocks and the three bears at the Little Theatre from December 19 to January 6 and Cinderella at the Southport Theatre from December 6 - 31. You can catch the stars of Cinderella at Southport Market for a cook-off in the demonstration area and at the launch of Wayfarers Shopping Arcade’s 12 Days of Christmas Trail on December 1.

Santa and his helpers will be making special appearances at two magical grottos around the town. Wayfarers Shopping Arcade launches its spectacular Christmas Grotto on Saturday, December 1, from 11am.

58

Southport does it best.indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:10

The grotto will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 11am – 4pm and from Monday, December 17 to Friday, December 21 11am – 2pm. On Christmas Eve Santa will appear from 11am – 2pm to hear those final gift ideas from good girls and boys.

Southport

Market’s

Grotto

will

have

mischievous elves, Frosty the Snowman and Mrs Christmas, along with Santa, on December 15/16/22/23 between 11am – 4pm and on Christmas Eve between 11am – 1pm.

Christmas would not be Christmas without a sing-along and The Salvation Army Band will be playing Christmas carols on Chapel Street on Saturday, December, 8, 15 and 22 from 10:30am – 1:30pm.

They will be joined by an assortment of entertainers so be sure to look out for them.

The Southport Melodic Jazz Christmas Special takes place on Sunday, December 9 at the Royal Clifton with toe-tapping top musicians performing from 2pm ‘til late. For more information on the Southport Melodic Jazz contact 01704 541 790.

With so much to do and see, why not make a weekend of it and treat yourself to an overnight stay. You can stay in one of the many good value bed and breakfasts or guest houses or upgrade to a lavish and stylish hotel such as the Ramada Plaza or The Royal Clifton Hotel and Spa, both located on the Promenade.

Southport should certainly be the name on everyone’s lips this Christmas.

Gr8 Life magazine

Southport does it best.indd 4

59

07/11/2012 11:10

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PAGE 60.indd 1

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The perfect venue Briars Hall has long been considered one of the top wedding and event venues in the North West. Originally an 18th century country manor house, the hotel still boasts the charm of old yet offers the modern comforts and facilities today’s travellers have come to expect and enjoy.

A large country house, beautifully located in five acres of mature gardens and woodland, Briars Hall offers that perfect setting whether it is for business or leisure and can adapt to many different types of events.

From weddings and civil ceremonies, charity galas and fund raising events through to smaller family special occasions and celebrations, the staff have a wealth of experience in event planning.

The hall is also home to Stone’s restaurant which offers an a la carte menu and high quality country house cuisine.

The design of the restaurant enables Briars Hall to cater for intimate diners through to parties of up to 140 guests.

The conservatory area of the restaurant overlooks the waterfall garden and local parkland belonging to the hotel and is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing lunch.

Although a very sought after and up market venue, weddings can be tailored to suit all budgets enabling anyone to enjoy a beautiful day at the country house. One of the most popular packages costs just £3,500 and includes a wedding breakfast for 40 guests, evening buffet for 100 guests, drinks on arrival and throughout the meal and a honeymoon suite for the bride and groom on the wedding night. This offers excellent value for money for the happy couple and allows them to have the wedding they have dreamt of while not breaking the bank.

Briars Hall also has 24 beautiful en-suite rooms which are perfect for wedding guests who have travelled from afar and need a place to stay overnight. They will be able to relax in their sumptuous rooms with bottled water, tea and coffee making facilities, hair dryer, free wireless internet access and a high backed leather chair as standard. After a fabulous wedding, what could be better than waking up in the historic house with beautiful views from every bedroom and a hearty cooked breakfast.

There are also many events throughout the year including jazz nights, big band nights and cabaret nights, which provide back to back entertainment and are the perfect way to de-stress and relax. Golden Oldies Cabaret is an afternoon event twice a month which combines entertainment, a 3 course meal and bingo for just £13.95 and gives guests the opportunity to socialise and have fun without staying out late into the night.

For more information please call 01704 892 368 or e-mail info@briarshallhotel.co.uk.

07/11/2012 11:13

Look fabulous for Christmas

The battle has begun!

Many of us are starting our pre Christmas diets so we look fabulous at the parties and work events coming up in the next few weeks however, most of us will fall at the first hurdle and end up where we started!

Rather than radically alter your diet, refuse yourself treats or calorie count, here are some tips which could make it just that little bit easier to get slimmer for Christmas. www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Look fabulous for Christmas.indd 2

61

07/11/2012 11:15

Lower your carbs

bonus as research shows even mild levels of

Carbohydrate based foods are needed

dehydration can cause the brain to confuse

for energy but not all carbs are the same.

thirst with hunger and substantially increase

Refined carbohydrates such as cakes,

the likelihood of over eating.

biscuits, most breads, pastas and cereals

Maybe have half boiled and half roasted potatoes.

The big thing to remember is, ‘a little of what you fancy does you good’. Don’t make yourself miserable by denying yourself any

are often deficient in nutrients and can

Move more!

of the wonderful little treats that come out

send blood sugars sky high resulting in

Exercise is the most productive way to

over the festive season.

increased appetite, cravings and lethargy,

get the weight off and stay off. Activities

Just remember the word MODERATION.

so they are best avoided wherever possible.

such as walking, running, dancing, cycling,

If you are attending a party and you

Instead, concentrate on more unrefined,

skipping and swimming all increase your

don’t know what food to expect, fill up a

lower GI alternatives. For example, swap

metabolic rate and burn calories. Try to do

little on foods that you know you can have

white breads for rye, stoneground or

at least 30 minutes a day and always take

before going out.

wholemeal varieties. Swap from plain pasta

five minutes before and after exercising to

to wholemeal, white rice to brown rice and

warm up and cool down properly.

add more beans, pulses and oats to your meals and snacks.

Move up to a level where you are

If none of the above works, don’t beat yourself up, just put it behind you and start afresh tomorrow.

breathing heavily but could still hold a conversation if required. Try adding in short

Take up shuffling

bursts of higher intensity exercise every 4

Not card shuffling - we mean food

to 5 minutes. For example, when jogging,

shuffling. Shuffle the ingredients of

walking, cycling or swimming increase your

your favourite meals by cutting down on

pace for 30 to 60 seconds or, if exercising

the carbohydrate content and increasing

on a cardio vascular machine, increase the

the amount of fruit and vegetables. This can

speed or the resistance you are working at.

be a very productive way of cutting calories whilst increasing your nutrient intake. For

This helps to burn up to 30% more calories per session.

example, a spaghetti bolognaise made in the usual way amounts to around 600 calories.

But if you shuffle the ingredients by using

Maintaining during the festive season

less meat and spaghetti and add in more

On Christmas morning have a really

vegetables in the form of peas, sweetcorn,

substantial breakfast, trimmed bacon, low fat

tomatoes, mushrooms and carrots, you’ll

sausage - both grilled, scrambled or poached

create a tastier, healthier, more filling meal

egg, wholemeal toast. You can also bulk this

and halve the calories to approximately 300

up with plenty of grilled mushrooms and

per serving too.

tomatoes. Hopefully this will mean you will

Try this technique with all your favourite meals and watch your waistline decrease.

be less tempted to snack during the day and less likely to overeat at lunch/dinner.

At Christmas dinner, have

Think about your drinks

lots of vegetables and take

The calories in drinks are surprising and

all the visible skin and fat

can really can mount up so think about

off the meat. Lightly spray a

ditching the lattes, juices, wine and beers for

low fat oil spray on potatoes

water, herbal or green teas instead.

when roasting, you will be

You can lower your calorie intake by

amazed at how they are

around 500 a day and also find that you

still wonderful and

become more hydrated, which is a real

crispy.

62

Look fabulous for Christmas.indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:15

Some low calorie nibbles CanapĂŠs

are

usually

served

on

This recipe can also be adapted to your

crackers, blinis or small slices of bread and

taste. Mix cottage/cream cheese, a dash

are perfect finger food. When slimming,

of lemon juice and chopped dill together

use cucumbers as the base, topped with

in a bowl. Season with freshly ground

pesto, goat/feta/cream cheese and finish

black pepper. Lay salmon strips on a work

with a slither of salmon/prawn/caviar.

surface and divide the cheese mixture

You can also make cucumber cups and

along the length of each strip, leaving a

use in the same way you would a vol au

2cm border at one short end. Top with

vent case. Trim cucumbers and cut into

rocket/watercress or salad leaf of your

1/2-inch-thick slices. Scoop out centres of

choice and roll up tightly.

slices without cutting through the bottom.

This can be filled with whatever takes your fancy.

You can also use grilled courgette strips instead of the salmon.

Saucy Tomatoes

Parmesan Pitta Crisps

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Sweet cherry tomatoes

3 tbsp olive oil

150ml vodka

3/4 tsp ground cumin

1 very finely chopped, de-seeded red chilli

1/4 tsp ground red pepper

2 crushed garlic cloves

5 wholewheat or white pittas with pockets

1 tbsp of dry sherry

grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp of Tabasco sauce

Salt

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce Method:

Juice of ½ a lemon Celery Salt to taste

Preheat oven to 350F/180C/Mark 4.

Mix oil, cumin and ground red pepper.

Method:

Carefully split each pitta in half. Brush one side

Prick the tomatoes all over with a cocktail stick. Combine the rest of

into eight and

salt) in a bowl.

arrange wedges, oiled-side up, on ungreased

two hours.

baking trays. two or three cocktail

Picture: James Baigrie

marinate in the fridge for at least To serve: Drain and place in

Sprinkle with Parmesan and

glasses with cocktail

salt if you like. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or

sticks on the

until golden.

side. Sprinkle with

When cool they can be stored in a tightly

a little celery salt just

covered container or large self-sealing plastic

before serving.

Look fabulous for Christmas.indd 4

Cut each half

the ingredients (excluding the celery Add the tomatoes then leave to

Gr8 Life magazine

with oil mixture.

bag for up to one week.

63

07/11/2012 11:15

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CHRISTMAS FAYRE available 1st - 24th Specialising in Kids December • 3 Courses £15.95 Football Parties CHRISTMAS DAY (1 sitting) • 3 Courses £19.95 (with 3G Football Pitch)

DISCO and

KARAOKE

with DISCO DAVE every Friday from 7.30pm

For Unbeatable Quality and Service call 01704 514951 or Visit our Showroom: 121 Manchester Road, Southport PR9 9BD

1113938

Join us on NEW YEARS EVE for Live Entertainment - FREE ENTRY! FA C T O R

COMING END OF JANUARY 2013 - Call for details

1113688

PAGE 64.indd 1

07/11/2012 13:43

Living the dream

Four years ago Alison

“We opened our doors in November

enough to lead service teams in some

Grady decided that a

2008 in Wayfarers Arcade and everyone

fantastic companies including Marks &

said I was crazy to open a business in a

Spencer.” After such a successful career

recession,” Alison explains. “Four years

you would be forgiven for wondering

later and we’re still open although riding

why Alison made the move into retail,

and within a year, she

out the economic downturn has been

a completely different sector to her

went from head of

much tougher than I thought. One great

background. “I’d always wanted to open

UK customer services

advantage of a recession however is that

a shop - despite having worked mainly

for Marks and

it forces all retailers to focus on offering

in corporates for most of my career -

Spencer to owner of

value for money, interesting products and

because as a shopper I have often sought

refreshing service, and that can only be

out the more interesting experiences

good for customers.”

that independent shops can offer.

change of career was just what she needed

accessories business and boutique, Covet and Crave.

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Living the dream.indd 2

I

Alison spent most of her working

wanted to create something that offered

life in computer programming before

customers a choice and a range of prices

moving into technical support with

with products that are value for money.

Microsoft and then onto leading their UK

During a work assignment, I met my

customer contact centres. “ The majority

now husband who was working in radio

of my corporate career was spent leading

at the time and tied to the North-West.

customer service teams or managing

One day we were driving past an empty

major change projects. I have been lucky

shop unit when Damian asked me why

65

07/11/2012 11:22

I hadn’t yet followed my dream of opening my

other business owners, and I am learning so

own boutique. He offered his full support and

much that I’m really glad I was brave enough

suggested I should just do it. I decided that day

to have a go. Originally, I opened in Wayfarers

and started work on the planning straight away.

Arcade which was a fantastic start up location

It is a dream come true.”

because of the instant network of other retailers

But with no experience in the retail industry,

nearby. When my lease ran out after three years

how did Alison know the first thing about running

it coincided with a review of my business plan

a business? “To be honest, I took the job at Marks

and I chose to move to Lord Street to take Covet

& Spencer to learn about retail! I was based in

& Crave to the next level.”

their head office in London working as part of

Alison meticulously thought out every aspect

the senior management team and although I

of her new shop and even the name was carefully

was in charge of UK Customer Services, being

put together so it was meaningful. “The name

part of that broader management team gave

was inspired by how I’d like people to feel when

me a great insight into how all the components

they look in the window. I’d like them to covet

of retail need to come together to create the

the products on offer and crave them enough

shopping experience for customers.”

to want to own them. I like the name because

Alison had originally planned to set up her business in Penwortham but when matters

it’s about the customers and not the products or me.”

were taken out of her hands all her plans

Although opening a clothes shop is the

changed. “It happened almost by accident but

obvious choice, Alison decided that instead,

I’m glad it did. My original plan was to open

accessories were the path she wanted to take.

in Penwortham where I could trial the business

“Accessories can transform an outfit and I

before expanding to a larger town such as

am also mindful that if people want to be careful

Southport. However, the premises there fell

about what they are spending they can invest in

through so I went straight for the second stage

some classic wardrobe pieces and then ‘dress’

of Southport instead. It was a bigger step than

those pieces with different accessories to change

I had originally planned but I’ve met some

the look.”

amazing people - customers, colleagues and 66

Living the dream.indd 3

Although there are many independent shops www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:22

in Southport, Covet and Crave offers something

which is often seen on quite a few well-known

that little bit special. “It’s our range of prices and

personalities including Amanda Holden, Nicole

products that people come back for,” Alison

Sherzinger, Alesha Dixon and Tulisa. We also

explains. “We have jewellery from £7.50 up to

have a new range from Denmark called Sence

£300, leather handbags from £50 to £500 and

Copenhagen which is super quality and very

scarves from £15 upwards. Customers tell me

collectable. We always carry a wide range of

they are often pleasantly surprised by the prices

scarves at all different prices, some are hand

of some of our ranges. We have started to

embellished, others are bright prints, some

become known as a great place to buy gifts from

are more suitable for occasions. Contemporary

because we often have things you won’t see

accessories for the home including wine

everywhere else and we offer a gift-wrapping

breathers, jewellery trees and water carafes are

service. We buy British whenever we can and

also on offer, together with a great range of

we always try to stick to products that can be

fragrances and candles by boutique fragrance

described as ‘contemporary accessories with a

house, Ortigia. At this time of year we stock a

difference.’”

wide range of tights - over 50 different styles

“I am always looking for something

including some hand finished with diamantes

different for my customers so I tend to seek

as well as striking prints, so there is plenty to

out emerging designers as well as established

choose from.”

ones. In handbags we carry Lulu Guinness -

After such a dramatic career change does

a great British brand with iconic designs and

Alison have any further ambitions for her business

an almost cult following. We also stock bags

or hopes for the future?

by another British designer: Tamara Fogle who

”Opening a business of this sort with very

happens to be TV presenter Ben Fogle’s sister.

little direct experience and still being here four

Tamara’s bags are made from fine quality

years in is quite an achievement. We are starting

leather and have a distinctive but understated

to become known as a destination store and

style. We are one of very few stockists in the

have a good number of regular customers which

North West so it’s nice to have things that you

I am also delighted about. I would love to branch

won’t see on everyone else.”

out, but at the moment, beating the recession is

She adds, “We stock Martine Wester Jewellery

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

Living the dream.indd 4

my top priority.”

21

07/11/2012 11:22

Against the Grain – From Southport to Bootle

THEBESTDISCOUNTED FURNITUREOUTLET INTHEUK

For those who might need reminding, just over a year ago Against The Grain closed their furniture stores in Marble Place, Southport. The business had grown from just one store to six separate units in the small shopping centre.

The owners declared there was just no way they could maintain the separate units, so larger premises were quickly found, and despite the loyal following of their many Southport customers, Against The Grain moved to nearby Bootle.

For those of you who enjoyed the brilliant atmosphere in the stores and the wonderful salesmen whose banter and sense of humour made any visit worthwhile, you can now find the company on Strand Rd. Perched comfortably on the back of Asda’s car-park their much larger showroom is just as accessible.

Still brimming to capacity, the showroom is full of the same stunning furniture bargains we had seen previously in Southport - the same salesmen, the same banter, the same wonderful atmosphere. A business truly worth visiting, even if you weren’t thinking of buying any furniture this autumn, just pop over and enjoy the experience. You will love the staff, and once smitten who knows, you might just come away with the bargain of a lifetime.

The store is also offering an extra ten pounds off any purchase to anyone who has travelled from Southport to cover their petrol.

Can’t ask for more than that…

HARVEY'S AND TESCO'S FURNITURE AT HALF PRICE

75-77 Strand Road, Bootle, L20 4BB (on the back of Asda’s car park) Tel: 0151 538 5393

PAGE 68.indd 1

1113720

Opening hours 10-00 am till 5-00 pm every day except Sunday

07/11/2012 11:24

1113144

1113114 checkers.indd 1

07/11/2012 11:26

From the outside Checkers looks like a very extensive DIY store. When you step inside, however, you realise exactly how large the store actually is. An Aladdin’s cave springs to mind, full of DIY treasure! If you want to treat your house this Christmas to a makeover, Checkers is the

Heaven for Homes

place to visit.

A

The ground floor is full of everything you could want for regular household jobs including

the time and hassle away from choosing your curtains.

screws of all sizes, bought separately if you want,

Andy adds, “We all believe passionately in

paints, glue, electrical fittings - the list is endless.

good friendly service and think the customer

If you explore a bit more you will find a huge

should have the best advice available. We also

room full of wallpapers and curtains, from very modern large prints to extremely plain designs for more minimalist tastes.

Owner Andy Wareham says, “Our wallpaper and fabric showroom houses over 600 wallpaper and fabric books including books by Sanderson, William Morris, Osborne & Little, Harlequin and

believe in doing the little things that the big

many more. Checkers also offer a full measuring,

stores can’t be bothered with and don’t think

making up and fitting service which can take

you should have to pay any extra for all of that.

70

A Heaven for Homes.indd 1

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:28

You will probably find you will pay less here.�

On the second floor is an extremely impressive kitchen/bathroom/bedroom showroom with a huge range of kitchens which Checkers design and fit themselves. They have access to all the tradesmen who carry out structural alterations,

RAUMPLUS system offering the smooth feel of

Corgi registered fitters for gas work and NIC

an exclusive wardrobe system at an affordable

registered installers for all electrical work.

price. Andy adds, “The added advantage of all

They also guarantee their kitchens for five

of the sliding door systems at Checkers, is that

years so you can rest assured if something

they are at least half the price of a conventional

unexpected does happen, help is at hand.

hinged door wardrobe system.

Fitted wardrobes have become very popular

of the wardrobes can be customised to your

in the last few years and Checkers have a large

requirements, whether it be a simple railing

selection perfect for anyone who wants to update

system to a fully fitted interior including trouser

their home. Panel and mirrored wardrobes have

and shirt racks, shoe racks and pull down rails.

leaped forward in recent years, with innovative

Full measure, design and installation service

new designs and styles. Shaker style panel and

available for all sliding and fitted wardrobe

glass combinations to suit all tastes, the modern

systems.

look and feel of the Minimalist split panel doors offering a near frameless look, to the German www.gr8lifemagazine.com

A Heaven for Homes.indd 2

All interiors

Call Checkers on 01704 224 488 to arrange an appointment at your convenience.

71

07/11/2012 11:28

Concept furniture FOR LIVING

ORDER NOW FOR CHRISTMAS UP TO 50% OFF SELECTED ITEMS

DIVAN BEDS from £79

CORNERS from £599

RECLINER SUITES from £799 Choice of colours

62-64 Eastbank Street Southport Open 7 Days Pictures are for illustration purposes only

1113469

DINING SUITES from £129

*Pictures shown are for illustration purposes only

FAUX LEATHER BEDS from £89

Bedroom Sets from £179

01704 539444 * Terms and conditions apply

Something for everyone Pillowtalk shops were established ten years ago and the company can now provide customers with a fantastic selection of soft furnishings and luxurious home accessories under one roof. The highest quality textiles, affordable prices and exceptional levels of customer service are available at Pillowtalk six days a week, Monday to Saturday.

At Pillowtalk you will find everything you need to achieve a sumptuous look and feel to any room and the store’s extensive ranges offer something for everyone!

For the bedroom there are stylish duvet sets, sheets, throws, quilts, pillows and memory foam. Pillowtalk’s Premium range of finest quality Egyptian cotton means you can create that designer look at a fraction of the cost. For the bathroom Pillowtalk has luxurious towels, bathrobes, bathmats, shower curtains and accessories.

For the lounge there is a beautiful range of lighting, curtains, blinds, cushions, throws and contemporary artwork to compliment every colour scheme and style. For the dining room there is an extensive range of tabletop accessories and elegant crockery and glassware to bring that inspired look to dining or entertaining including a fabulous range of Maxwell Williams Crockery and kitchenware.

Pillowtalk even stocks a fun range of beanbags and bean chairs and beautiful soft toys for all the family to enjoy. There are also great Christmas gifts available, perfect if you want to buy your loved one something a bit special. For excellent value at reasonable prices and new ranges arriving each week, why not visit the Churchtown shop and see what’s in store.

IN CHURCHTOWN

for all your Home Textiles & Accessories

Good Quality Pre-Loved Furniture We have a wide range of furniture, mattresses and electrical items. Bespoke furniture and collactables available at our showroom in Skelmersdale.

We will also collect any unwanted, reusable items of furniture, save it from landfill and give it a new home.

Excellent Quality

Skelmersdale

Gladden House, 17 Gladden Place, Skelmersdale WN8 9SX 01695 557 230 Mon-Fri 9.00- 16.30 • Sat 10.00-16.00

at Reasonable Prices

24 Room Settingss

We also have a showroom in Sefton

to inspire you

Sefton Re-Use is based at Unit 4, Wakefield Road (off Heysham Road) L30 6TZ 0151 203 2686 Mon-Fri 9.00- 16.30 • Sat 10.00-14.00

Everything

you need for the Perfect Celebration

For more information please visit

142a CAMBRIDGE ROAD, CHURCHTOWN SOUTHPORT PR9 9RZ TEL 01704 505100 Open: Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm www.pillowtalkhome.co.uk

1113461

PAGE 72.indd 1

1113975

www.exselcic.com

‘enabling achievement beyond expectation’

Singing and Musical

07/11/2012 11:31

Natasha Hamilton is famous for being one third of hugely successful girl band Atomic Kitten and after taking some time out to be a mum she is back, performing in Southport panto Cinderella.

Here she talks to Gr8Life about her musical inspirations and how she can’t wait to be back in Southport, the place of childhood memories.

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

An Atomic Kitten in Southport.indd 2

73

07/11/2012 11:32

Did you always want to perform?

Yep! I was always in pantos and plays since I was four and my family have always supported me. They knew what I wanted to do but weren’t pushy at all. My mum was the one who got me the audition for Atomic Kitten and my life changed after that. We had no idea at that point what was in store for me.

How does it feel to become famous almost overnight. How did you adjust?

Because we were so young and living our dreams we just accepted it and got used to the attention. We loved it but for me it wasn’t about the fame it was more about performing and entertaining people. It just came with the job and I just took it as it is. If people want my autograph then of course I will give it to them.

My husband finds it weird but I just put the blinkers on and carry on with it. It is really nice, especially when I get stopped in Southport and Liverpool - people are very proud.

What do the kids think of Mum’s career?

My oldest doesn’t care, he is just not interested.

He remembers bits of my career but my middle one Harry doesn’t remember any of it but thinks it is great. He tells everyone that his mummy is famous!

They kids come and see a lot of the shows and love every minute. In my last show at the west end Harry walked down the isle and threw roses at the stage.

What do you think about these shows like XFactor?

They have narrowed the market and these shows have changed the way music is sold. I don’t think it is a bad thing as everyone should be entitled to live their dream. I would have auditioned if I wasn’t in Atomic Kitten as it is a great way to be noticed - look at Leona Lewis, she has done so well. It does mean that it is hard for new talent that aren’t on these shows to make their mark. However, telly is king and that platform is needed for new bands to be seen.

There is no other avenue for anyone who wants to get into the industry apart from these reality music TV. We really worked hard to get seen when we were in the band and it seems to be easier nowadays to make it if you do well on one of these shows. The whole industry has changed because of them.

74

An Atomic Kitten in Southport.indd 3

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:32

What music inspires and influences you?

I love dance music but also jazz, soul and pop, I have a huge range that I enjoy listening to. As I have been getting older however, I have started to listen to the lyrics and what they are actually saying. When I was younger I just listened to the beat.

Are you looking forward to performing in Cinderella in Southport?

I can’t wait! I love pantomimes and as I know Southport so well it is nice to revisit it. The rehearsing will be very difficult as it is so intense but I am sure I will love every minute!

You are from Liverpool, which is just down the road from us. How often do you come to Southport?

I used to spend my childhood summers here!

We would pack a picnic and come down for the day regularly. I love it and still visit often which is why it is so nice to be appearing in panto here.

What have you got coming up in the future?

I have started a fashion blog which I am currently populating which you can find at natashahamiltonfashionblog.com.

I have created it all from scratch myself and fashion is such a big love of mine.

For a technophobe this is quite an achievement! My love of writing has stemmed from writing songs and is something that I really enjoy doing - I just want to inspire people. It is more like an e-magazine and covers beauty, clothes, interviews with designers and accessories.

I am also cycling across India in November.

It is a ten day trip and the event is over 6 days.

We are staying in tents and I have already raised over ÂŁ3,500 but am keen to raise even more!

After Christmas I have got some really exciting projects in the pipeline so watch this space! justgiving.com/Natasha-Hamilton

Gr8 Life magazine

An Atomic Kitten in Southport.indd 4

75

07/11/2012 11:32

Southport Dramatic Club 75 Goldilocks and the Three Bears

rmskirk

th

ANNIVERSARY 1937

Written by John Morley

Directed by Sandy Town Choreography by Tracey Bachelor Musical Direction by Nick Tudor

LOVE ORMSKIRK AND THE MARKET SHOPS AND BUSINESSES

19th December 2012 6th January 2013

Pa

rty

bo no oking s 70 w 45 04 80 0 Con ces f Chi or Gr sions ldr o en ups, Cit & Se ize ns nior on

ORMSKIRK MARKET Every Thursday and Saturday

01

king boo No harges es c rd fe a or c

Box Office Tel: (01704) 530521/530460 www.littletheatresouthport.co.uk Hoghton Street, Southport PR9 0PA

Find us on facebook

Adrenaline Package

Beauty Package

ONLY ££59.99

ONLY £59.99

Paintballing for 5 Players with 200 Paintballs EACH

Hair, Make Up, Professional Photoshoot & Complimentary Print for 2

vine fruits, whole natural cherries (no enthrosine colouring in them) and the finest dried figs.

Our puddings are packed with fruits, hand mixed then steamed for 5 hours and left to mature for 3 months to allow the flavours to come together, to make a traditional Christmas pudding. Best served hot, flamed with brandy and served with white sauce.

We also make our own fruit Christmas cakes with only the finest vine fruits and marzipan, decorated with royal icing in the traditional style along with our Victoria sponge Christmas cakes for those who prefer a sponge cake.

Not forgetting our special Christmas Gingerbread Santa’s & Snowmen.

Birkdale

35c Liverpool Road Birkdale PR6 4AG 01704 562106

Buy 1 voucher and get 2nd HALF PRICE!

Crossens

129 Rufford Road Crossens PR9 8HT 01704 225933

~ CHRISTMAS SPECIALS ~ Delicious Mince Tarts Rich Christmas Puddings Succulent LargePork Pies Tasty Fudge Yule Logs Truffle Christmas Pudding Treats Indulgent Fresh Cream Gateaux Churchtown

145 Roe Lane Churchtown PR9 7PW 01704 227040

Tarleton

St Marks Square Tarleton 01772 812722

1113882

86 Oak Street Southport PR8 6AL 01704 537929

Studios Nationwide

1113727

Head Office

1113295

Sites Nationwide

During the Christmas period we sell our “special” vine fruit packed mince tarts.

We make our own mincemeat, made to “Nana Lathams” own recipe using only sultanas, currants, raisins, vegetable suet, apples and spices, Demerara sugar and lemons. Only the finest ingredients are used and NO PRESERVATIVES. The mincemeat is then encased in short crust pastry and baked to perfection.

The mincemeat is made using vegetable suet so they are also suitable for vegetarians.

We also make our own Christmas pudding, again to Nana Lathams own recipe. These are traditional “figgy puddings” again using only the finest

1113722

Box Office Opens: 22nd Oct 2012 at 11.00am

EXTRA CHRISTMAS MARKETS Tuesday 18th, Friday 21st and Monday 24th December

LOVEORMSKIRK.COM

- 2012

Why not visit our website? www.chlathambaker.co.uk

PAGE 76.indd 1

07/11/2012 11:34

Give GOLF for Christmas

WE OFFER PERSONALISED GIFT VOUCHERS OF ANY VALUE

1113393

Professional coaching packages available for complete beginners, ladies, seniors and juniors. Club memberships, rounds of golf or driving range packages also available. Vouchers can also be used in our fully stocked pro shop (junior equipment and clothing a speciality). Value from £10 upwards.

See our web site for details

1113728

1113806

Telephone: 01704 842825 to make a reservation or request a menu

GOLF COURSE • DRIVING RANGE • TUITION The Gravel, Mere Brow, Tarleton • 01772 815842 www.southport-golf.co.uk

PAGE 77.indd 1

07/11/2012 13:44

6

8 9 7

8

10

9

10

11 12

11 12

13

14

18

19

ACROSS 1. Comical (5) 4. One of the senses (5) 7. Freedom (7) 8. Regret (3) 9. Woodwind instrument (4) 11. Ire (5) 14. Valuable item (5) 15. Singing voice (4) 18. Large antelope (3) 19. Greed (7) 21. Force out (5) 22. Compare (5)

fun for all the family.indd 1

15

17

21

78

14

15

16

13

20

22

DOWN 1. Bird of prey (6) 2. Seize suddenly (3) 3. Tall story (4) 4. Attempting (6) 5. Dreamlike (7) 6. Level (4) 10. Vague (7) 12. Leave (6) 13. Forward-looking (6) 16. Monster (4) 17. Shopping precinct (4) 20. Writing fluid (3)

Common Theme Each group of words has a common trait in the three words/items listed. For example … the words: A car - A tree - An elephant … they all have trunks. These will make you think!

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

The Brain - The Lung - The Ear Spider - Fiddler - Hermit Back - Butterfly - Side A Car - A Tree - An Elephant A Bear - A Hammer - A Lobster Finish - Fishing - Dotted Metal - Radar - Lie Stop - Spot - Strobe Trap - French - Glass A Person - A Watch - A Mountain

No peeking … here are the solutions

5

Christmas Trivia

4

1 Coca-Cola 2 Tim Burton 3 Germany 4 Clarence 5 Blue 6 New York 7 1843 8 Donner 9 Jacob Marley 10 The Snowman 11 Indian Ocean 12 Rockin’ 13 Rudolph 14 A Spider in a web 15 Two front teeth

3

Brainteaser 1

7

2

Name Chose Kevin Madonna Laura Mozart James Robbie Williams Rebecca Shania Twain Boyzone Steps

1

Joanne Steve

6

Brainteaser 2

General Knowledge Quick Crossword

– Prancer – Cupid – Rudolph – Dasher – Blitzen – Vixen – Comet – Donner – Dancer

5

Common Theme

4

1

3

2 3

2

Which company was the first to use Santa Claus in an advertisement?

Who wrote ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’?

Which country did the gingerbread house come from?

What is the guardian angel of George Bailey named in ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’?

What kind of Christmas does Elvis Presley sing about?

What city did ‘Miracle On 34th Street’ take place in?

In what year was ‘A Christmas Carol’,

by Charles Dickens, published?

Which reindeer is Rudolph’s dad?

Name Scrooge’s dead business partner?

What was the film called in which Peter Auty sang Walking in the Air? Which ocean is Christmas Island in?

Brenda Lee was doing what around the Christmas tree?

Which reindeer is left out of the ‘Night Before Christmas’ song?

What do traditional Ukrainians put on their Christmas tree for good luck?

All I want for Christmas is my...?

4

1

5

Christmas Trivia

They have lobes Crabs Swimming strokes They have trunks They have claws Lines Detectors Lights Doors They have faces

For Christmas, six brothers and sisters received some CD albums as presents. The albums were by Madonna, Steps, Robbie Williams, Boyzone, Mozart and Shania Twain. Using these clues, can you determine who received which CD? Kevin chose a CD by a solo girl singer. Laura hates pop music but got an album she wanted.

James chose a solo singer.

Rebecca chose a girl singer, but not Madonna. Joanne and Steve both chose CDs by groups. Steve chose Steps.

6 7 8 9 10

Brainteaser 1

Crossword

for ALL the family

Santa always leaves plans for his elves to determine the order in which the reindeer will pull his sleigh. This year, for the European leg of his journey, his elves are working to the following schedule, that will form a single line of nine reindeer: Comet behind Rudolph, Prancer and Cupid. Blitzen behind Cupid and in front of Donner, Vixen and Dancer. Cupid in front of Comet, Blitzen and Vixen.

Donner behind Vixen, Dasher and Prancer. Rudolph behind Prancer and in front of Donner, Dancer and Dasher. Vixen in front of Dancer and Comet. Dancer behind Donner, Rudolph and Blitzen. Prancer in front of Cupid, Donner and Blitzen. Dasher behind Prancer and in front of Vixen, Dancer and Blitzen. Donner behind Comet and Cupid. Cupid in front of Rudolph and Dancer.

Vixen behind Rudolph, Prancer and Dasher.

Can you help the elves work out the order of the reindeer?

– Across 1 Funny 4 Taste 7 Liberty 8 Rue 9 Oboe 11 Anger 14 Asset 15 Alto 18 Gnu 19 Avarice 21 Eject 22 Liken

FUN

Brainteaser 2 – Down 1 Falcon 2 Nab 3 Yarn 4 Trying 5 Surreal 6 Even 10 Obscure 12 Depart 13 Modern 16 Ogre 17 Mall 20 Ink

Just a bit of

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 11:37

Welcome to the most luxurious but inexpensive bathroom showroom in Southport...

Book a completely fitted bathroom before Christmas and we will give you up to £500 worth of tiles

The Association’s 28 members consist of varied restaurants, cafés and tea rooms – so whether you’re looking for a tasty a la carte meal or a relaxed lunchtime bite, there’s plenty of choice. The Association produce their very own Southport Eating Out Guide too which is split into three easy reference sections; Best of British, A Taste of Europe or Around the World – whatever avour you crave you’re sure to nd it here.

The Association have their own loyalty card too, with which you can take advantage of some great money-saving offers. To read more go to www.visitsouthport.com/eating-and-drinking/loyalty-card or scan the QR code on this page with your smart phone.

You can request your free Southport Eating Out Guide and loyalty card by emailing your name and address to loyaltycard@visitsouthport.com and we’ll send them in the post to you. Happy dining!

BEST OF BRITISH

Forge Brasserie Queen Anne Street, Southport, PR8 1EH Tel: 01704 500522 www.forgebrasserie.co.uk London Sq of Southport 31a London Street, Southport, PR9 9JR Tel: 07808 210576 www.londonsquare-southport.co.uk Marine Brasserie Ramada Plaza, Promenade, Southport, PR9 0DZ Tel: 01704 516220 www.ramadaplazasouthport.co.uk Nostalgia Tea Rooms 215-217 Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1PF Tel: 01704 501294 www.nostalgiatearooms.co.uk Pudding & Pie 39-43 Wayfarers Arcade, Lord St, Southport, PR8 1NT Tel: 01704 543943

FREE

Bathroom to be fitted after New Year

A TASTE OF EUROPE What do we offer that others don’t?

Personal service backed by 35 years know-how in the business.

We can just supply, or you can take advantage of our free home planning service and expert installation.

We can do a small job or a complete service which includes everything from design to laying tiles or other flooring.

One look is worth a thousand words...

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Please come and see us next time you shop at Morrisons or B&M Bargains (We are situated right between the two car parks)

The Anchorage Building, Kingsway, Southport PR8 1ND (Off Lord Street) • Tel: 01704 514216

Alamir Lebanese Bistro 93 Eastbank Street, Southport, PR8 1DG Tel: 01704 544615 www.alamirbistro.com Kastui Indian Cuisine 40 Eastbank Street, Southport, PR8 1ET Tel: 01704 533102 www.kasturirestaurant.com Lal Qila 133-135 Eastbank Street, Southport, PR8 1DQ Tel: 01704 530111 www.lalqilasouthport.co.uk Lings on Kings 52 King Street, Southport, PR8 1JX Tel: 01704 530169 www.lingsonkings.co.uk Saahil 665 Lord Street, Southport, PR9 0AW Tel: 01704 512345 www.saahil.co.uk The Metro Portland Street, Southport, PR8 1LL Tel: 01704 536836 www.themetrosouthport.co.uk V Café & Sushi Bar The Vincent Hotel, 98 Lord St, Southport, PR8 1JR Tel: 01704 883800 www.thevincenthotel.com Warehouse 30 West Street, Southport, PR8 1QN Tel: 01704 544662 www.warehousekitchenandbar.com

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OPEN Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm

Auberge Brasserie 1b-3 Seabank Road, Southport, PR9 0EW Tel: 01704 530671 www.auberge-brasserie.com Bistrot Verité 7 Liverpool Road, Birkdale, Southport, PR8 4AR Tel: 01704 564199 www.bistrotverite.co.uk Chez Moi 569 Lord Street, Southport, PR9 0BB Tel: 01704 545619 www.chezmoibrasserie.co.uk Claudes of Churchtown 98 Botanic Rd, Churchtown, Southport, PR9 7NE Tel: 01704 228334 www.claudesofchurchtown.co.uk Finos at the Waterfront 9 The Waterfront, Southport, PR9 0DZ Tel: 01704 501745 www.nossouthport.co.uk Gdanska 1 Hoghton Place, Southport, PR9 0TE Tel: 01704 510710 www.gdanskarestaurant.com Gusto Trattoria 58-62 Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1QB Tel: 01704 544255 www.gustotrattoria.co.uk Lords Café Bar 659 Lord Street, Southport, PR9 0AW Tel: 01704 543814 www.lordscafebar.co.uk Pizzeria Mamma Mia 120 Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1AA Tel: 01704 540259 Rincon Bodega Eastbank Street Square, Lord St, Southport, PR8 1NY Tel: 01704 530002 www.rinconbodega.com Royal Clifton Hotel & Spa Promenade, Southport, PR8 1RB Tel: 01704 533771 www.royalclifton.co.uk Salvatore’s Ristorante 519 Lord Street, Southport, PR9 0BB Tel: 01704 534782 www.salvatoresristorante.co.uk The Barking Frog 137-141 Manchester Road, Southport, PR9 9BD Tel: 01704 545132 www.thebarkingfrogrestaurant.co.uk Trattoria 51 51 Promenade, Southport, PR9 0DX Tel: 01704 510051 www.trattoria51.com Volaré 613 Lord Street, Southport, PR9 0AN Tel: 01704 546232 www.volaresouthport.com

AROUND THE WORLD

H&J Bathrooms

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Choosing where to eat out in Southport – England’s Classic Resort couldn’t be easier – just look to the Southport Restaurateurs Association.

07/11/2012 11:38

Wha Southport Theatre

SDC Little Theatre Southport

Liverpool Empire

0844 847 2380 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

01704 530521 www.littletheatresouthport.co.uk

0844 847 2525 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

November

November

November

21

Jimmy Carr: Gagging Order

21

22

Celebrate Good Times

23–Dec 1 The 39 Steps

23

The Circus of Horrors

25

30

Marty Wilde’s

December

Rock’n’Roll Party

19–Jan 6 Goldilocks and the Three Bears

December

La Boheme Hairy Bikers Larger Than Live 26

Christmas With The Rat Pack

December

6–31 Cinderella 11

Welsh National Opera’s

14–Jan 6 Cinderella

Houghton Weavers

14–Jan 19 Dolly Parton

80

Whats on.indd 1

Alanis Morrissette

Jimmy Carr: Gagging Order

- 9 to 5 The Musical

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 14:25

hat’s On? Liverpool Echo Arena

Liverpool Tate Everyman Liverpool & Playhouse

0844 80000 400 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

0151 709 4776 www.everymanplayhouse.com

020 7887 8888 www.tate.org.uk

November

November

November through to Jan

22

Michael McIntyre

8–Dec 1 Held By Joe Ward

Oct–Jan 13 The Far and The

30

Alanis Morrissette

Munrow

Near: St Ives and

30–Dec 9 Jack and the Beanstalk December

The legendary Rock ‘n’

7

Madness

Roll Panto

8

Peter Andre

10

Florence & The Machine

International Art Nov–Jan 13 Pre-Raphaelites: Victorian Avant-Garde Nov–Jan 13 Sky Arts Ignition: Doug Aitken – The Source

11–15 Mrs Brown Rides Again

Nov–Jan 20 William Klein &

Gr8 Life magazine

Whats on.indd 2

Michael McIntyre

Hairy Bikers

Daido Moriyama

81

07/11/2012 14:26

A VUE TO A GREAT CHRISTMAS

The Nutcracker: Live from the Royal Opera House

The Met Opera: Aida 12A

Thursday 13th December

If you fancy something a bit different, this could be right up your street.

The Met’s unforgettable production of Verdi’s ancient Egyptian drama stars Liudmyla Monastyrska as the enslaved Ethiopian princess caught in a love triangle with the heroic Radamès, played by Roberto Alagna, and the proud Egyptian princess Amneris, sung by Olga Borodina. 12A

A chance to see Tchaikovsky’s overture and all the magic and mystery that comes with it. If you couldn’t make it to the theatre to see the production live, this is a great chance to enjoy one of the most famous performances of all time. The Nutcracker unfolds over two glorious acts and starts on Christmas Eve were we are brought to a party at which Drosselmeyer gives young Clara a nutcracker doll. A night begins that includes a magically growing Christmas tree, a midnight battle and a magical snowstorm. TBC

Saturday 15th December

Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger

Pitch Perfect 12A

Release date: Friday 23rd November

Release date: Friday 21st December

This is the follow-up to the hugely popular Christmas hit. Mr. Peterson (David Tennant) is a supply teacher sent to work at a struggling primary school while his identical twin brother lords it over him from a smart private school. With a Christmas song competition coming up and the children anxious to prove what they can do, Mr. Peterson is forced into taking the class on a cross-country adventure that will culminate in a showdown with his own brother’s school. Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! is perfect Christmas fun that should work on all the family. PG

Here’s a high-school musical movie with a difference: it’s dangerously funny. Beca (Anna Kendrick) has just started a new school and has so little interest in joining the all-girl a cappella that she pretends she can’t sing. She’s eventually found out, drawn into the group and the competition against the boys that went so badly last year. But with a cast of difficult characters, can she actually make a difference on this year’s showing?

Pitch Perfect is a high-school movie with some very grown-up humour and some great tunes. 12A

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If you don’t fancy the theatre but still want to enjoy an evening of entertainment, pop down to Southport’s Vue cinema, grab your popcorn and relax in front of one of their many showings.

www.gr8lifemagazine.com

07/11/2012 15:09

A unique past.

A bright future.

Scarisbrick Hall School sits in a magnificent historic setting - but time does not stand still here. We are continually evolving and improving.

Discover a place where innovation and tradition combine to produce high academic standards and achievement.

College students can start GCSE studies a year early Each College student is allocated a personal mentor Games, PE & Music specialist teaching from Reception onwards Specialist teaching in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Languages from Year 5 Our own transport fleet is available to cover every local area

Find out more about the future.

Call us on 01704 841151 or visit www.scarisbrickhallschool.co.uk

Pre-School Age 3+

t

First School Reception to Year 4

Middle School Year 5 to Year 8

College

Year 9 to Year 13

Reception Open Morning

27 November 9am - 11am

Entrance Exam - 23 January 2013

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07/11/2012 11:41

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iscover the magic of a Dobbies Christmas.

Visit Dobbies and discover a stunning collection of gifts, gorgeous decorations, beautiful trees and garlands, gourmet food and delicious fresh produce. All the ingredients you need for a magical Christmas.

All wrapped-up under one roof.

Garden Centre | Farm Foodhall | Restaurant | Santa’s Grotto | Hamper Shop | Home Delivery | Gift Wrapping | Free Parking Dobbies Garden World | Bentham’s Way | Birkdale | Southport | PR8 4HX | Tel: 01704 552 920

For full details visit dobbies.com

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07/11/2012 15/10/2012 11:42 17:45