I Love MCR SPRING 2014

SPRING 2014

TOP 5 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK ALFRESCO IN MCR A BEARD’S NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS TOP 10 FREE PLACES TO VISIT IN MCR

INTRO

Manchester’s got a lot going for it but it gets a bad press for its weather. People think it rains here all the time. But that’s an exaggeration. We reckon it only rains a couple of times a year.

Once from January to May and once from September to April.

That’s why we get all excited when we get some nice weather.

Well, we’re having some nice weather at the moment. That’s because spring is coming.

If you live in the countryside, you can tell spring is on its way when you hear the first cuckoo and see the spring lambs.

In Manchester, it’s a bit more difficult because the cuckoos tend to keep a low profile and the only lambs we get here tend to be accompanied by roast potatoes and mint sauce.

So how do we know that spring is arriving in Manchester? The first clue is when a strange object is spotted in the skies (it’s the Sun, stupid, not a UFO) and temperatures start to creep into double figures. It gets light earlier and dark later. Spring flowers start to appear. But the surest sign is when you spot your first shirtless man in the street. That’s when you know spring is here.

Have you spotted a shirtless man in the street yet? Do let us know. @ILoveMCR / ilovemcr.com

Copyright © 2014 I Love Manchester Media Ltd. All rights reserved. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the publisher Published by I Love Manchester Media Ltd To advertise in the next I Love Manchester guide contact Mike on 07540 842205 or email: mike@ilovemanchester.com Editor Stephen Lewis Art Director Chris Greenhalgh Sales and Marketing Mike Strul Writers Leanne Coppock Amy Huggins Tom Folkes Olivia Golding Cover Photograph Carl Sukonik The Vain Photography Printed by Studio fp

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LIVING & WORKING

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LIVING & WORKING

TOP 10 EXCUSES FOR NOT CYCLING Spring is on its way and the nice weather’s coming. We all want to shed a few pounds and look our best. And we could all do with a few extra bob in our pockets.

So why aren’t you cycling?

1

Cyclists are a bunch of arrogant tossers who ride on the pavement, go through red lights and think they own the road.

Some do. Most don’t. Some motorists are no angels either.

4

It’s dangerous. I don’t feel safe cycling in traffic.

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I haven’t got a bike.

Then get one.

Then don’t. If you don’t feel confident cycling in traffic, go cycling when the roads are quiet.

Sunday mornings are a good time. You’ll see lots of other cyclists on the road and not many cars. If you want to stay off the roads completely, there are loads of traffic –free places to cycle such as parks or the city’s many traffic-free cycle paths.

Once you’ve built up your confidence have a go at cycling on the road.

I can’t afford a bike.

Yes you can. You can get a decent bike for less than £300. Work out how much you spend on fuel, tax, MOTs, insurance and car parking, not to mention repairs, and you won’t have much change from £5,000 a year. That’s nearly £100 a week. If you don’t have a car but use public transport, work out how much that costs you.

LIVING & WORKING

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5 It’s too slow. I need to get to work.

Manchester’s roads are some of the most congested in the country and although the transport authorities are doing their best to improve things, the fact is there are way too many cars on the road. If you are driving to work on a congested road, you could find that you could get to work quicker by bike.

6

I’m not fit enough.

You don’t have to be. Just start at a gentle pace. It will get easier and you’ll get fitter.

9 I don’t want to get hot and sweaty.

There’s nothing wrong with hot and sweaty. It just depends on where you are. Wear the right clothes and cycle at a leisurely pace.

10 7

I look terrible in Lycra.

Most people do. Unless their name is Wiggins, Froome or Cavendish.

Don’t wear it.

Get a decent lock or leave your bike at the Cycling Hub in City Tower (Piccadilly) or Pop-up Bikes (under the railway arches near the new Co-op building).

o to nly m ex fo ess cu s r co hel my e w ns me ha e h be , m t h ir u av ne es air p.” en U ’t fi sy . m ts o ha But nfo got on f ir if rt a ca ey ridin is a you una n an n yo g sm w te sw aff u a a e ly do ord sav bik ll p igh , th er fo ne to e b e. ric up ere r i m ge y c And e to th ’s s s “I or t yc w p e til do e yo lin i ay pr l n n of u g th o ’ te r h , y a for s a o cu t w n. a o ll t th nd re an ir u h t e e

Are you sure? A recent survey conducted by the British Heart Foundation found that people think cyclists have a unique blend of intelligence, generosity and the cool factor. Nearly a quarter of us (23%) would choose to go on a date with a cyclist over a selection of other sports people.

It’s not safe to leave a bike especially in the city centre.

Too many bikes get stolen even when they’re locked.

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It’s not cool.

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LIVING & WORKING © artistonabike.co.uk

You’ve got the bike but where do you go? The Sky Ride’s not the limit. Currently fewer than 5% of journeys in Greater Manchester are made by bicycle because many people who would like to ride a bike or cycle more frequently are intimidated by the volume and speed of motorised traffic. So get off road away from the traffic-you don’t need a mountain bike. There are hundreds of miles of traffic free cycle paths in and around Manchester to choose from. Here are three to whet your appetite.

GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE 66 National Route 66 of the National Cycle Network is the official name of the cycle path which follows the Rochdale Canal from Manchester to Spurn Head on the east coast via Littlebrough,Todmorden and Hebden Bridge.

Join it at Store Street near Piccadilly Station and cycle eastwards through Manchester’s industrial landscape as far as you want.

If you don’t cycle and want to learn the right skills, are returning to cycling or want to enhance your riding, BikeRight! offers FREE adult cycle training for Manchester residents, enabling you to get fit, save money, socialise, stay safe, learn new skills and enjoy the fresh air.

0161 230 7007 / info@bikeright.co.uk / www.bikeright.co.uk

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LIVING & WORKING 3 CHARITY BIKE RIDES 23 March 2014 The Manchester Cycle The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Cycle is a 25 or 50 mile ride on open roads starting and finishing at Old Trafford stadium.

29 June 2014 The Great Manchester Cycle 2014 A mass participation cycling event that offers three separate distances, for all abilities, over a 13mile city-based circuit in Manchester and Trafford.

The course is completely closed to all other vehicles, with the start, lapping point and finish at the Etihad Campus.

31 August 2014 Manchester 100 Bike Ride The Christie is the official charity for the Manchester 100 Bike Ride which takes place on Sunday 31st August. This 100km or 100mile bike ride starts and finishes at Wythenshawe Park leaving Manchester to take in the stunning Cheshire countryside of Northwich, Middlewich and Delamere Forest

THE FALLOWFIELD LOOP

The Fallowfield Loop isn’t a contraceptive device for students but six miles of flat cyclepath which follows a disused railway line and forms part of The Manchester Cycleway. It goes from Chorlton to Fairfield Station via Fallowfield and Levenshulme

TRANS PENNINE TRAIL

The Trans Pennine Trail is a national coast to coast route from Southport to Hornsea which passes through Chorlton, Didsbury and Stockport. It is largely traffic-free and uses surfaced level paths which are relatively flat, making it suitable for novice and experienced cyclists alike.

Go west for an attractive route through Dainewell Woods and across the eastern end of the Cheshire Plain to Lymm, the Thelwall Viaduct and on to Southport or east for Hadfield, Glossop and the Pennine foothills.

Every last Friday of the month, there’s a communal morning cycle ride into Manchester from various suburban locations. For more information contact graeme@manchesterfoe.org.uk

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LIVING & WORKING from Keep Britain Tidy, recently took part in the first of a series of city centre clean-ups. As well as collecting around 35 bags of litter from city centre streets, they planted flowers on streets in the Northern Quarter.

Now the council is urging residents to take pride in their neighbourhoods by organising more community clean-ups across the city. And it will shortly begin offering £200 grants to residents’ groups, schools and other organisations to buy equipment such as bags, litter picks, gloves and bulbs – inspiring more people to take part when they see the events taking place.

The council is also offering advice and support to anyone who would like to get involved.

If you are interested in getting involved in community clean-up events please contact community.engagement@manchester.gov.uk You can also help by getting involved in Keep Britain Tidy’s Great Litter Count 2014.

The Great Litter Count tells us which brands are dropped most as litter on our nation’s streets. Last year, more than 500 people signed up, counting more than 37,000 pieces of litter - on the street, in parks, on beaches or beside rivers and canals.

We love Manchester. We hope you do, too. We’re proud of our city, what it has achieved and what it has to offer. But there’s one thing that makes us ashamed of our city. The Manchester Festival Of Litter. That’s right. We’re talking rubbish. It’s everywhere. Manchester must be one of the filthiest cities in the country.

Too many people think it’s acceptable to throw their rubbish away in the street rather than take it home or find a bin to put it in.

A group of Manchester residents, together with staff from city centre businesses such as McDonald’s and Starbucks and representatives

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This year they want the Great Litter Count to be even bigger so they can survey more streets and collect even more data on the most littered brands. The more data we have, the more useful it will be in their campaigns to put an end to littering.

To take part, visit keepbritaintidy.org and download the litter recording and guidance sheet for full information about carrying out the survey. Then carry out your litter count, wherever you like, for just 30 minutes any time between 21 March – 21 April. Upload your results from 21 March then they’ll crunch the numbers and share their findings of which are the most littered brands from around the country. They will use this information in their campaigns to reduce the amount of litter on our streets. @KeepBritainTidy / keepbritaintidy.org

CULTURE

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FOOD & DRINK

RAINY CITY, SUNNY PEOPLE ainy city, sunny people. We don’t get much sunshine, so when we do we like to make the most of it. For a city not exactly celebrated for its good weather, there’s no shortage of places to eat and drink alfresco in Manchester, from beer gardens and barbeques, suntraps and terraces, to patios and pavements.

R

And there’s no need to wait till summer.

Temperatures are already pleasant enough to enjoy a meal or a drink and enjoy the sunshine.

And lots of places are heated just in case it does get a bit nippy.

Here are our favourite places to eat and drink alfresco in Manchester. Enjoy. But don’t forget the suncream. >>

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FOOD & DRINK

TOP 5 PLACES TO

2 This large but cosy pub in Castlefield has a large dining terrace with stunning views over the canal basin and a boules court for a bit of mindless fun (best played sober).

RESTAURANT BAR & GRILL JOHN DALTON ST

Great selection of ales, a decent wine list of some 50 bins, over a hundred malts, and a really cracking food menu.

The restaurant, with a stunning suspended staircase, has a smart heated alfresco terrace and bar. Perfect for some lovely grilled food, overlooking a cosmopolitan street.

6 Slate Wharf, Castlefield, Manchester M15 4SW @wharfpub / brunningandprice.co.uk/thewharf

14 John Dalton Street, Manchester M2 6JR @rbg_bank_zinc / individualrestaurants.com

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FOOD & DRINK

EAT ALFRESCO 3

GRAND PACIFIC SPINNINGFIELDS Younger sibling of Australasia, Grand Pacific transports you to Asia. With exquisite cocktails as its main focus, the bar and garden also serves up fresh sushi and light bites.

The Avenue, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3AP @AustralasiaMcr / australasia.uk.com

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ABODE CAFE BAR & GRILL PICCADILLY

The Grill On The Alley’s younger sibling near Piccadilly. Now with a canopied outdoor area, they can serve their no-nonsense food alfresco comfortably. Premium quality steak.

The award-winning Café Bar & Grill from double Michelin starred Michael Caines is situated in the stunning ABode Manchester on bustling Piccadilly with an outdoor area. Long time Manchester favourite Bryn Evans heads up the kitchen team bringing together his own creative style of cooking with some of the finest local and seasonal produce. Try the fish & chips and a glass of fizz with strawberries. Can’t go wrong.

New York Street, Manchester M1 4BD @grillonnewyork / blackhouse.uk.com

107 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2DB @mcatmanchester / abodemanchester.co.uk

GRILL ON NEW YORK ST NEW YORK STREET

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FOOD & DRINK

TOP 5 PLACES TO

2 Manchester’s original bar and grill which has been refurbished and extended three times. Dukes can now properly call itself a venue with two bars, three private events spaces, a grill restaurant, excellent smoking facilities, canalside terrace and balcony overlooking the canal basin. Deservedly popular when the sun comes out. What’s more, they do two-for-one pizzas.

THE OAST HOUSE SPINNINGFIELDS

18 Castle Street, Castlefield, Manchester M3 4LZ @dukes_92 / dukes92.com

The Avenue, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3AY @theoasthousemcr / theoasthouse.uk.com

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This country style pub hosts a famous beer garden. Broke the Guinness World Record for the largest beer tasting event last summer and offers an exclusive and exciting range of ales.

FOOD & DRINK

DRINK ALFRESCO 3

BREWDOG PETER STREET This beer and dog-mad bar boasts a huge glass frontage, external seating area, partial mezzanine, and exposed beams. In hops they trust, apparently.

35 Peter St, Manchester M2 5BG @BrewDogMancs / brewdog.com

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THE LIQUOR STORE BLACKFRIARS ROAD

This stunning bar hosts trademark white wicker outside booths with fantastic service, bearing all the hallmarks of being a hit on the city’s bar scene and reinvigorating the area.

Granted this bar doesn’t have the biggest of outdoor spaces. However, together with the atmosphere, the quality behind the bar and the decent playlist blasting out the double doors, it’s well worth a mention. This independent bar has its Mancunian roots coursing through its veins and probably the best bartender in Manchester.

The outside area now has heaters for those moments when the brass monkeys arrive.

1 New York Street, Manchester M1 4HD @AlchemistNYS / thealchemist.uk.com

40 Blackfriars St, Manchester M3 2EG @liquorstoreuk / theliquorstore.co.uk

THE ALCHEMIST NYS NEW YORK STREET

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Š Lee Jeffries

CULTURE

he homeless are often described as being the invisible members of society, but in the work of local photographer Lee Jeffries, they are firmly in the spotlight, says Amy Huggins.

His subjects may not be the most photogenic yet his black and white portraits of homeless men and women from Europe and the USA achieve an almost transcendent beauty reminiscent of the Old Masters. They are hugely emotive and

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compelling, showing supersized almost hyperreal faces in exquisite detail, alive with emotion.

It is astounding to learn that Jeffries is self-taught and works as an accountant by day.

It was 2008 when Jeffries took his first picture of a homeless person when visiting London, one of the world’s richest cities, where the number of homeless is rising steadily every year.

CULTURE “I trained a long lens on a young girl huddled in a shop doorway. She noticed, of course, and made a point of letting me know she didn’t approve. That experience has undoubtedly influenced how I go about things now. It’s more about making contact than coming away with an image,” he says.

Jeffries admits rather honestly that, prior to this incident, he had been oblivious to homeless people, “I never noticed them,” he says. “Now I never walk past a homeless person without at least saying hello”.

He claims that, despite the profound subject matter, his photos have no political agenda. “My images portray human emotion. There are social issues, of course, but it’s the human connection that I try to reinforce. Not their circumstances.”

Although he admits his experience has not given him the solution to the homelessness epidemic, he hopes that his powerful images will raise some kind of awareness of the 185,000 people estimated to be living on our streets.

Although Jeffries could be accused of exploiting the vulnerable members of society, he insists that his subjects accept him. “The fact is I’m so close....

I’m right there with a 24mm lens. I’m not taking an image on the sly”.

This labour of love does not come without perils.

“It can be dangerous entering some of the areas I have been to. I try to play by the rules of the street. Be courteous. Always,” he advises.

He is pragmatic when asked how his proximity to the destitute has affected him emotionally, claiming the emotion is channeled into his work.

“I find myself with the homeless, and the junkies, the dealers... and I enjoy my days. I connect...carry the emotion of that with me and then pour all of it into the final image.” @Lee_Jeffries / leejeffries.500px.com Lost Angels, a collection of Lee Jeffries’ portraits of homeless people, is available online: en.yellowkorner. com/books/1507/Lost%20Angels.aspx

© Lee Jeffries

Jeffries takes his social responsibility seriously, providing charities with free use of his images as

well as holding charity auctions to raise muchneeded funds.

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CULTURE Manchester Craft & Design Centre’s forthcoming exhibition, Tactile Illusions, is a showcase of work

by Elizabeth Jane Winstanley, winner of MCDC’s 8th Annual MMU Graduate Solo Exhibition Award for her experimental approach to embroidery.

Elizabeth is not quite what you’d expect from an embroidery graduate, and her use of experimental, innovative and alternative media pushes the boundaries of embroidery. She creates illusions of line and colour through using light emitting wire and patterns which she then screen prints onto acrylics.

Despite using digital processes and technologies, Elizabeth handcrafts each of her objects and artworks, challenging our perceptions of craft, embroidery and materials.

Tactile Illusions will feature a large body of Elizabeth’s work, including pieces she developed in her final year at university whilst experimenting

with surface patterns and alternative media.

Movement is essential when interacting with Elizabeth’s artworks and visitors will find themselves ducking and weaving around each object in order to explore it fully.

A range of Elizabeth’s tactile samples will also be on display and visitors will be actively encouraged to handle the objects. The exhibition will demonstrate the processes that Elizabeth uses in creating her patterns and artworks.

Tactile Illusions is on at Manchester Craft & Design Centre until Saturday 5 June 2014.

Throughout the duration of Tactile Illusions, MCDC’s resident artists and makers will be showcasing the work of new graduate artists in their studios. ‘Future Makers’ 2014 is an opportunity for you to see the best upcoming talent, alongside established makers. Don’t miss it. @manchestercraft www.craftanddesign.com

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CULTURE TOP 10 FREE PLACES TO VISIT IN MANCHESTER

1

JOHN RYLANDS LIBRARY This masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture looks more like a castle or cathedral.

Part of the University of Manchester, The John Rylands Library hosts one of the world’s finest collections of rare books and manuscripts.

When John Rylands died in 1888, he was one of Manchester’s most successful industrialists with a personal fortune of £2.75million. The library was commissioned in 1890 by his wife Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her late husband.

This world class collection includes the oldest known piece of the New Testament, the St John Fragment.

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The library is also home to one of the most pleasant cafés in Manchester, Café Rylands, serving fresh, local and ethically sourced food.

Do take pictures because it’s one of Manchester’s most beautiful buildings but no flash or tripods allowed.

Manchester Art Gallery houses many of the city’s most important fine and decorative art works, many of which have been designated as being of national importance. The gallery is one of the region’s most popular cultural destinations, attracting over 400,000 visits each year. Between 1998 and 2002, a £35million refurbishment and expansion programme transformed the venue into a world-class gallery for Manchester. Since then, Manchester Art Gallery has won many awards and has developed a national reputation for its high quality, audience-focused services.

150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH @TheJohnRylands / www.library.manchester.ac.uk/deansgate

Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3JL @mcrartgallery / www.manchestergalleries.org

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CULTURE

3 MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL A city is only registered as a city if it has a cathedral. Whether you want to see the ancient architecture, attend a service and listen to the choir, have a coffee, or attend a special event or exhibition, you are always welcome at Manchester Cathedral.

Victoria Street, Manchester, M3 1SX @ManCathedral / www.manchestercathedral.org

5 CENTRAL LIBRARY One of Manchester’s most iconic buildings is due to re-open on Saturday, March 22nd. Central Library is the big, beautiful circular building just off Peter Street (St Peters Square) which has been closed for refurbishment. Its historic features have received a makeover and the building brought up to twenty-first century standards.

Manchester Town Hall in Albert Square is considered to be one of the one of the most important Grade 1 listed buildings and one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in the country. Although the Town Hall is open from Monday to Saturday, rooms aren’t always available to see if an event is taking place.

Not only will you be able to read or borrow a book, you will also be able to use a computer free for one hour or take advantage of the free wi-fi, There’s a state of the art digital media centre including creative software and gaming station; a British Film Institute Mediatheque with highlights from the world’s greatest and most diverse collection of British film and television; a children’s library; a Business and Intellectual Property Centre; the Henry Watson Music Library, where you can unearth original treasures or compose, play and record your own music. Discover rare books and special collections including the Theatre Collection, the Gaskell Collection and the Broadside Ballads. Visit the new cafe, buy vintage posters and enjoy an inspirational programme of author events, poetry, storytimes and workshops.

Albert Square, Manchester M2 5DB www.manchester.gov.uk/townhall

St Peters Square, Manchester M2 5PD www.manchester.gov.uk/centrallibrary

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CULTURE Just outside Manchester city centre but technically in Salford (like IWM), we just had to list:

SALFORD LADS CLUB Salford Lads Club was established in 1903 as a purpose built club for working lads.

The club has continued to provide this facility for more than 100 years and is now considered to be the “finest example of a pre First World War club surviving and operating today” The club is now open to girls and boys throughout the year. In addition, the club is a dedicated stop for fans of the band The Smiths, a regular backdrop for film and tv productions and host to a variety of community projects.

Salford Lads club is run by volunteers. Lad. St Ignatius Walk, Salford M5 3RX @salfordladsclub / salfordladsclub.org.uk

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ST ANN’S CHURCH

GALLERY OF COSTUME

St Ann’s Church in St Ann’s Square is over 300 years old. This beautiful, peaceful church is open from Tuesday to Saturday for prayer and visitors between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm.

The Gallery of Costume houses one of the largest collections of clothing and fashion accessories in Britain and contains over 20,000 items.The collection contains clothes worn by people of 17th century to the present day. Many of the clothes represent high fashion of the day. Other, much rarer items represent the basic but equally interesting dress of working people.

At St Ann’s there is always someone available to answer questions or to offer comfort.

St Ann Street, Manchester M2 7LF @StAnnsChurchMcr / www.stannsmanchester.com

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Platt Hall, Rusholme, Manchester M14 5LL www.manchestergalleries.org

CULTURE

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IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH

PEOPLE’S HISTORY MUSEUM

WM is unique in its coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present day.

The People’s History Museum (formerly the National Museum of Labour History) is the UK’s national centre for the collection, conservation, interpretation and study of material relating to the history of working people in the UK.

The museum seeks to provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and the ‘wartime experience’.

The Quays, Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1TZ @I_W_M / www.iwm.org.uk

The Grade II listed, former hydraulic pumping station houses a collection which tells the story of the history of democracy in Britain and about ordinary people’s lives at home, work and leisure over the last 200 years.

Left Bank (corner of Bridge St and Water St), Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER @phmmcr / www.phm.org.uk

The National Football Museum is the permanent home of the FIFA Collection and is the leading museum of its kind in the world.

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The relocation of the National Football Museum to Manchester and the creation of a new public face of the Museum enables NFM to reach a much greater audience. The move has also enhanced NFM’s profile, nationally and internationally. Back of the net!

Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Manchester M4 3BG @FootballMuseum / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

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NIGHTLIFE The Voice

“Who’s gonna step on you...”

“Elizabeth”

here’s no party like an I Love MCR party and on the dark night of Thursday 20 February, we pulled out all the stops at our underground shindig to celebrate our sexy new website.

Liversidge, Jo McAdam, Lee Parry and up-andcoming four piece band The Lottery Winners.

Considering a lot of people are re-attempting a detox or ‘dry January’, right into February, it was a decent turnout.

After a few early technical hitches and a water David Liversidge’s beautiful voice provided a leak, our private party resonated like a miniwarm welcome to guests arriving in awe of the Beetham Tower in the Northern Quarter with atmospheric, fairy lit setting. the help of Simeon’s Sound Solutions. It was all just spilt milk in the grand scheme The Lottery Winners were of things. Organised chaos, some “YIPPEE, VIMTO sensational crowd pleasers. The might say.

AND CHEESE! Salford-born band went down a treat from their hit single ‘Elizabeth’ MY TWO An ideal setting, the uber cool The to a ‘Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ tribute FAVOURITE Whisky Jar, with superb live sets that everybody knew the words to. from local singer/songwriters David Their uplifting voices got people THINGS!” 28 | ilovemcr.com

NIGHTLIFE @AmyConey: “Loving last nights late vibes! Thanks for the invite guys @ilovemcr @WhiskeyJarNQ”

“Too much for me!”

@Fatsoma: “Had a fleeting visit to the @ILoveMCR launch night, fantastic event topped off with the brilliant @TheLotWins” @ZaraCakes: “Such a great night @WhiskeyJarNQ for the website launch of @ilovemcr !!!! @TheLotWins we’re #mint !!!!

“Where are Scotch Eggs from, anyway?”

@Wayne766: “@ilovemcr @TheLotWins @Thewhiskeyjar great launch gig tonight, top artists, some free food & drink & great company. Thanks! Xx” @MrFolkes: “@LiversidgeMusic @TheLotWins Amazing live music by super cool people, please check them live @ilovemcr x” @nbanati: “Fantastic launch party @ ilovemcr amazing pies, fancy Vimto, live music and goody bags - what more could a Manc gal want...” @TheLotWins: “Thank you for last night Manchester. @ilovemcr @ ilovemcrchris” @LiversidgeMusic: “HUGE thanks @ ilovemcr for last night @WhiskeyJarNQ & all that watched! Top top night, great acts.... @TheLotWins mint band!!

“Let’s get this party started!”

dancing and singing along, Vimto, pie and cheese in hand.

Guests, who included Happy Mondays singer Rowetta and Karl “The Neck” Power, slurped hot and cold Vimto inspired cocktails (did you know that in 1912, Vimto was registered as a medicine?) and tucked into Scotch eggs, Great Northern pies, cheese and wonderful treats from The Sweet Shop to honour everything Manc or at least Northern.

The party lasted way into the wee hours with a thumping DJ session from VivaDiva Emma Wilkie.

Guests, including our fabulous website designers Inspirational Inc, were given a special I Love MCR goody bag to remember a stonking party. Or not, in some cases.

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NIGHTLIFE MISSGUIDED’S PICK OF MANCHESTER NIGHTLIFE Manchester is a ruddy great city to live in. Not that I’m biased or anything. Trust me, it was ranked the most vibrant place to live in the UK in a report last year by global information brand, Experian. And yes, that means it beat London.

The study looked at a number of factors including extent of unemployment, student population and the number of professionals. My report is rather more informal and based entirely on my own opinion of what makes Manchester such a great place to live for sociable characters like me.

Manchester boasts frequent cultural events suitable for a myriad of tastes, not least if you’re a muso like myself.

This list will read like desert island discs collection only it’s going to showcase some of Manchester’s greatest venues. We boast a lot of different tastes at Missguided and here’s a few of mine.

take place in Soup Kitchen’s basement which couldn’t be better for a rave. The club space is First and foremost we have Soup Kitchen. It’s not relatively small with a capacity of 200 but its exactly what it says on the tin, though it does minimal décor doesn’t fail to give you the sense serve really great soup, amongst many other that everyone is there to just have a good time. edible delights. They’re open day and night and I’d be surprised if you found anyone pretentious both parallels have their own benefits. With there. its large windows, lunch or an early evening drink is a cosy affair. Instead of individual tables, I’ve enjoyed nights hosted by meandyou (who’ve the bar has long benches, creating a sense of brought the likes of Ben UFO, Joy Orbison and togetherness. Night-time drinks mean you might Ron Morelli) and Wet Play. I can promise you that be rubbing shoulders with strangers due to its these guys can throw a New limited space, but this also Year’s Eve party guaranteed to means encounters with some “MANCHESTER cause dance-jelly legs the day interesting characters.

BOASTS FREQUENT after (just imagine endless 80s that are impossible to Their line up reads like a whoCULTURAL EVENTS tracks not bop to). Perhaps this is why to-watch list (I’ve seen small they won Manchester Evening SUITABLE FOR acts such as Bass Clef, Born News’ Best Manchester Club of Ruffians and Ducktails) but they A MYRIAD OF 2013. They have a whole load also bring in top-class DJs for of events planned for the first TASTES...” pounding club nights. These

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NIGHTLIFE half of this year. I’m probably looking forward to Thumpers and Pearson Sound the most.

Next is Gorilla. Where do I even start with these guys? I can honestly say it’s my most visited club in Manchester. They serve great food (go for their pork Sunday roast) but I’m going to focus on the sheer number of acts they bring in. One of the most notable promoters is Now Wave, most of whose shows happen at Gorilla. They’re an unstoppable force, bringing acts such as Mount Kimbie, Flume and Ghostpoet. Incredibly well respected artists in their niche have made their mark at Gorilla-off the top of my head are Jon Hopkins and Space Dimension Controller. It’s as if Gorilla made a great big giant snowball of promoters and artists who are eager to play at their venue and, now that it’s rolling, it’s getting bigger and bigger with no sign of stopping. They won Manchester Evening News’ Best Live Venue last year and it wouldn’t surprise me if they won this year too. Bicep, Claude Vonstroke and Clark in 2014 are looking likely for us.

Last but not least, I couldn’t miss out the mighty Warehouse Project. You can probably tell I was impressed by the artists Soup Kitchen and Gorilla brought in but WHP is a whole other entity in itself. Any DJ/producer you could want to see, be it in house/techno/garage (I’m not going to go into those daft-sounding sub-genres), will be there. Sometimes twice, even. I have too many favourite line-ups to list but you must agree it’s a pretty good looking calendar, right? People came far and wide for these events, some from outside the UK. They aren’t continuing with their usual three-month season this year but are hosting a number of special events. One I’m particularly excited about is, of course, the big one, Parklife, featuring none other than Snoop Dogg, Disclosure, Flying Lotus, Warpaint, Chromeo plus many more.

These are just a few of the reasons why I love Manchester’s nightlife and if you weren’t swayed before, I hope you are now. Please join me in enjoying this energetic city. See you at Parklife.

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FASHION

he sun’s back, a little earlier than expected, but it can still feel brass monkeys out there. But that’s not enough to deter Mancunians from bringing their own style to the streets of the city centre. We sent our fashionista out onto the streets of Manchester city centre to capture some brave trends amongst students.

Manchester style offers individual twists on typical British trends. Style-stalking the streets of the city centre for just one day, there was proof enough that, when it comes to fashion, Mancunians know their onions.

City girls are definitely not afraid to clash prints. Our fashionista spotted the bright and bold thrown together and carried off with the confidence to match. It’s this confidence that defines Mancunian style and gives it identity.

A ‘we wear what we want’ kind of mentality which, though can be hit and miss at times, could never be described as boring.

Check prints were rife and it was clear who made the trend their own, adding a textured twist of a leather jacket or velvet shoe. Masculine coats proved popular for a more androgynous look with the added bonus of keeping extra warm!

A big up and comer for winter is Church and State- white collars on black dresses, blouses under jumpers matched with simplistic shapes and cross jewellery, perfect for colourphobes and flattering for all shapes and sizes.

With so many looks and so much inspiration saturating the city centre, the only question left is- where to shop first?

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© Jonathan Pryce

FASHION A BEARD’S NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS Living and working in the centre of Manchester, you can’t help but notice that the number of hairy-faced rascals frequenting cafes, bars and barbers (don’t say hairdressers!) is definitely on the rise. These guys are not hobo-looking, by any means. Some look dishevelled but in a cool way.

Others look the epitome of gentry.

We spoke to four of these fellas about themselves and their beards >>

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FASHION

DAVID LIVERSIDGE SINGER/SONGWRITER Why did you grow a beard?

“Basically, I grew my beard when an ex girlfriend split up with me. She was pretty much against facial hair so I’d never bothered to grow it much.

Needless to say once I was left to my own devices...

Does it need much maintenance?

“Obviously you always want it to be clean & tidy.

So a good regular wash and a little blow dry always helps. Keep on top of the trimming and always carry a beard comb.

Anything funny happened to you because of your beard?

“Not really funny for myself, but a girl once grabbed my beard as we crossed over on the escalators in the Arndale. Really took me by surprise, so it took me a moment to acknowledge what was happening. It felt like she was pulling my face off.

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What’s the best thing about having a beard?

“The best thing about my beard? I’d have to say the warmth it provides during the winter months.

Very comforting.

Any tips on growing a beard?

“It may sound obvious but not everyone’s facial hair grows in the same way or areas so I guess I would just say make the most of what you’ve got!

What products do you use?

“I don’t currently use any product. However, I have always wondered about the use of beard oil.

What do you think about the beard renaissance?

“It’s good to see the renaissance. There seems to have been a stigma attached to men with beards in the past, especially younger ones.

Now that they have come back into fashion I think there’s a greater acceptance. I’ve always got time for a bit of beard appreciation.”

FASHION “I don’t use any products, only a range of shampoos and conditioners. I’m forever being suggested beard oils and the like but I can barely afford to keep my guitar gear in shape. It’s a dear do, this music lark.

What do you think about the beard renaissance?

“The renaissance is great. I imagine it’s a terrible age for the Pogonophobe but, nevertheless, it’s good to feel a little bit in fashion. It makes me feel safe in the Northern Quarter.”

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Why did you grow a beard?

“I’ve always liked the look of a beard. Many of my musical idols donned facial hair in their time, George Harrison, most notably. I was that kid with the fluffy moustache in high school. One day I was asked to shave it off and it just grew and grew.

And here we are.

Does it need much maintenance?

“It doesn’t need much maintenance, really. I like to keep it trimmed, washed and conditioned regularly. I can’t have it looking tatty.

Anything funny happened to you because of your beard?

“A girl did once ask to feel my beard after a gig.

As she felt it, she just kept asking questions, completely unrelated to beards. She kept her hand in there for well over three minutes. Do you remember ‘Mr Shake Hands Man’ from Channel 4’s ‘Banzai’? Well it was an awful lot like that. Miss Beard Hold Girl. It’s not as catchy.

What’s the best thing about having a beard?

“The best thing about a beard? Winter. It’s a fantastic face-warmer. It also covers up my lack of jawline.

Any tips on growing a beard?

“Yes. It’s all in willpower. If you can’t grow one, or you don’t have patience, then leave it.

What products do you use?

SAM REECE BOSS MODEL MANAGEMENT Why did you grow a beard?

“I decided to grow one because, when I was younger, I was always asking my dad what it’s like to have a beard. So, when I saw it growing through I went for it.

Does it need much maintenance?

“Keep the general shape and trim the tash as no one likes odd hair creeping in your mouth when you’re eating!!

Anything funny happened to you because of your beard?

“Especially with the hair, I get called names like ‘Jesus’ a lot. I get a few, to be honest. Russell Brand, Wolverine, Thor, Brad Pitt in one of his films, ahum. Apart from Jesus, the most popular is Jack Sparrow.

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FASHION What’s the best thing about having a beard?

“The best thing about my beard is through the winter I’ve certainly had a warm face. Being a model, I like to think I can pull off the smart look. As well as the rough & ready look, there’s not many people my age that can grow this.

Any tips on growing a beard?

“The hardest part I found was getting through the scruffy odd hair here, there and everywhere.

Stick at it!!

What products do you use?

“A product I got introduced to is Dax. It’s a wax and stops it from looking fluffy.

What do you think about the beard renaissance?

“I love it and I think it will be around for a bit. If you look back at fashions around the wars, the dress sense and hairstyles, facial hair is slowly coming back round. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see more men in suits.”

INKY STEVE BARBER Why did you grow a beard?

“My great granddad had a killer tache in World War 1. My mum has a picture of him in full uniform and I thought it was awesome!

Does it need much maintenance?

“I trim it almost every day. You can’t let it get messy doing what I do! Who’d trust me?? Hahaha!

Anything funny happened to you because of your beard?

“Before the beard I had a handlebar moustache and everyone always wanted to see how hard it was!

What’s the best thing about having a beard?

“The best thing about the look is you don’t have to shave.

Any tips on growing a beard?

“Grow it to a good length then get someone to trim it properly for you. [You would say that wouldn’t you, Steve?-Ed] What products do you use?

“I use a shit load of products! From moisturisers to oils, keeps your face from drying up causing itchiness and the beard stays soft!”

Feeling inspired to grow a beard? Why not support Beards Against The Cancer, a charity fundraiser to raise awareness and show support for XFM Radio presenter Gareth Brooks who was diagnosed with bowel cancer this year. All profits to Christie’s. beardsagainstthecancer.bigcartel.com #beardsagainstthecancer

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Look after yourself. There’s only one you.

Fancy a spring clean? Colonic hydrotherapy is the ultimate cleanse - great for alleviating the symptoms of IBS, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, candida, bad breath, liver sluggishness, skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis and digestion problems.

Complete Health Clinic are specialists in colonic hydrotherapy and have been based at The Lowry Hotel for over 7 years. Registered with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) and the Association of Registered Colonic Hydroptherapists (ARCH).

What are you waiting for? Call Helen for a chat on 0161 207 4034 or 079000 82080 At The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Salford M3 5LH

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ADVERTORIAL A buzz cut or shaved full head of hair is the perfect look for summer. It’s looks clean, keeps your head cool and is low maintenance. It looks cool, too - especially if you’ve got the right shaped face and skull.

Until recently, there was just one thing you needed- hair. But not any more. Because now even bald men can look like they’ve got a buzz cut or shaved full head of hair thanks to hairline pigmentation.

Hairline pigmentation or medical hairline tattoo is the ultimate in non-surgical semi/ permanent hairline reconstruction, whereby

natural pigments are applied at the epidermal level of the scalp to replicate the natural appearance of real hair follicles. With three clinics including one in Manchester, Skalp is the largest organization of its kind in the UK. Their method uses only natural pigments and application methods and is regarded as the best treatment of its kind available in the world today. Hairline pigmentation isn’t just for men who want to look cool. It’s also suitable for men and women suffering from all kinds of hair loss from a receding hairline to alopecia and for all skin types and colours.

To see how you could look send them your picture and they’ll send you back a mock up of the new you.

0845 094 15 16 / www.skalp.com

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