Exclusive magazine uk winter 2015 by dan gheorghiu

Newborn to 16 Years

Signatu re BeSPOKe

Signature Bespoke's haute couture ladies collection features sensual, free-flowing lines that follow the natural curves of the body - effortlessly elegant clothing which take women from day to evening. What makes the Signature Bespoke collection special is the craftsmanship; every detail is handstitched and produced in house. Sequins, crystals and beads are found adorning almost every single gown in the collection, which are sewn into the finest fabrics the world has to offer.

Winter 2015

Signature BeSPOKe

Winter 2015

Signatu re BeSPOKe

Winter 2015

Signature BeSPOKe

Signature Bespoke 24 Holts Parade, India Buildings Water Street Liverpool L2 0RR Tel : +44(0) 151 236 2122 Mobile : +44(0) 7805 093836 E Mail : enquiries@signaturebespoke.co.uk Website : www.signaturebespoke.co.uk We also have a branch in Saville Row, London Appointments required for both locations Follow us on : Winter 2015

COntentS

Fashion Signature Bespoke………………………………………………2 Liverpool One…………………………………………………10 Cheshire Oaks…………………………………………………16 Chic Exclusive…………………………………………………20

Features Style your Winter Party With Chic Decor………………………26 e Single Girls Guide To Xmas With Rebeckah Vaughan………32 Successful By Design. An Exclusive Interview With Kelly Hoppen..36 Georgia’s Fancy Foote-Work. An Interview With Georgia May Foote....44 Ellie Phillips Interviews Eleanor Nelly & Louis Berry……………47 Ellie’s Favourite What’s On Picks Across e North West………52 20 Years Of Hollyoaks With Jennifer Metcalfe…………………58 Hey Hey It’s e Monkey. Chinese New Year……………………62 Knightsbridge Of e North. Manchester’s Spinningfields………66 Monumental Millionaire Milestone……………………………136 New Year Resolutions…………………………………………140

SaleS & MarKeting : Vivien Dunlop – Account Manager Karen Watkins – Account Manager

Winter 2015

Contact Details: 24 Holts Parade, India Buildings Water Street Liverpool L2 0RR Tel : +44(0) 151 236 2122 Mobile : +44(0) 7805 093836 E Mail : enquiries@signaturebespoke.co.uk Website : www.signaturebespoke.co.uk

COntentS

Eating & Drinking Eating & Drinking In e North West : Restaurant Reviews...................…..............………………69 Making His Mark. An Interview With Matt Worswick…..…88

Travel Exclusive Luxury Travel……..…………………………........91

Business e Mysterious World Of Pensions………………………110

Motoring Exclusive Review e Bentley Continental GT V8………....126 Exclusive Review e Maserati Quattroporte………………130

Golf Exclusive Golf……………………………………………..112

What’s On Upcoming Film Releases................................……………138 Get On Your Bike…………………………………………144 Where To Celebrate New Year……………………………146 What’s On Around e North West is Winter..…………148

Like us On Exclusive Magazine

FeatureS & advertiSing enquirieS Neil Wilson 07809 226112 n.wilson@dwpublishing.eu deSign & PrOduCtiOn Expression Graphic Studio

travel editOr - Paul Knowles MOtOring editOr - Stephen Rome FaShiOn editOr - Lauren Greene

editOr Simon Grant editOrial Simon Grant Nicola Kenyon Becky Hayes Camille Allcroft Rebeckah Vaughan 8

FOOd and drinK editOr Camille Allcroft

Winter 2015

MuSiC editOr - Ellie Phillips

MADE IN ENGLAND

Some of the design labels available at Virginia Lee include: Annette Gortz ● Bitte Kai Rand ● Mashiah ● Crea Concept Lilith ● Joseph Ribkoff ● Angela Caputti Jewellery VIRGINIA LEE 8/9 GARRICK PARADE

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LORD STREET

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SOUTHPORT

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01704 546584

liverPOOl One

dress, £119, Coast Shoes, £89, dune Bag, £59, dune Bracelet, £35, Coast

Winter 2015

liverPOOl One

dress, £229, hobbs Bag, £110, reiss Bracelet, £19, Coast ring, £19, Coast

dress, £175, French Connection at John lewis necklace, £49, Coast Bag, £99, hobbs ring, £60, reiss

Winter 2015

Jumpsuit, £75, Warehouse Bag, £135, reiss Bracelet, £39, hobbs ring, £19, Coast Shoes, £150, Karen Millen

dress, £189, damsel in a dress at John lewis necklace, £16, Warehouse Shoes, £89, dune Bag, £49, Coast

dress, £170, reiss necklace, £35, Coast Cuﬀ, £35, Coast gold ring, £19, Coast Black ring, £60, reiss Bag, £110, reiss earrings, Stylists Own

Winter 2015

top, £59, Coast Skirt, £65, Warehouse necklace, £39, Coast Bag, £99, hobbs earrings, Stylists Own

dress, £150, Coast necklace, £49, Coast Cuﬀ, £35, Coast ring, £19, Coast Shoes, £150, Karen Millen

Winter 2015

All at Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols at Liverpool ONE

Nails Sonia Jesson Nails inc Hair Phill Gallagher Electric Hair Lounge Makeup Zara Rowe NARS

top, £119, Coast Skirt, £129, Coast Bracelet, £28, Coast Bag, £110, reiss Shoes, £89, dune earrings, Stylists Own

Cheshire OAKs

CHESHIRE OAKS FROM DESK ‘TIL DAWN WITH CHESHIRE OAKS DESIGNER OUTLET THIS TIME OF YEAR SEES YOUR SOCIAL CALENDAR BURSTING AT THE SEAMS! WITH OFFICE PARTIES, DINNER DATES AND POST-WORK DRINKS, PLANNING YOUR WARDROBE ACCORDINGLY CAN BE JUST AS HECTIC! CHESHIRE OAKS DESIGNER OUTLET HAS PROVIDED SOME TOP TIPS ON HOW TO TAKE YOUR STYLE FROM JIGSAW

THE OFFICE TO THE BAR.

1. STEP IT UP! Invest in a versatile pair of heels These will glam up any outfit, whether its jeans, smart trousers or a pencil skirt, throw a knock out pair of heels on and your outfit is half way there!

CARVELA AT KURT GEIGER

DANIEL FOOTWEAR

FURLA

CARVELA AT KURT GEIGER

COAST M&S OUTLET

2. ALL THAT GLITTERS! Transform your outfit with statement jewellery

MICHAEL KORS AT WATCH STATION

Winter 2015

A stand-out statement necklace, ring or bracelet will add instant sparkle and glamour to any clothing.

Cheshire OAKs

TED BAKER

PHASE EIGHT *Cowshed is a pop-up store at Cheshire Oaks until January 2015.

4. NAIL IT!

COWSHED

A quick coat of nail polish adds the perfect finishing touch

5. LAYER UP! Make your jacket or coat part of your overall look

Go for rich mulberry tones at this time of year and match your lipstick for a more intense look.

Don’t make the mistake of planning your outfit and then throwing any old coat on, it’s a chilly time of year, an elegant coat, jacket or blazer is essential. JAEGER

FRENCH CONNECTION

CARVELA AT KURT GEIGER

TED BAKER

3. CLUTCH CONTROL! Accessorize with a must-have clutch bag Not only will a trendy clutch bag add style to your overall look, it will hold all of your essentials for the evening.

TED BAKER

FOLLI FOLLIE KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST TRENDS AT WWW.CHESHIREOAKSDESIGNEROUTLET.COM Winter 2015

Cheshire OAKs

CHESHIRE OAKS Sale shopping is the perfect opportunity to invest in statement key pieces - those “go to” items, which stand the test of time in every wardrobe. At Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, there is something to suit every taste, style and budget. It’s the largest designer outlet in the UK and a leading shopping destination in the North West. It is home to over 145 high street and premium brands including Coach, Ted Baker, Under Armour, Dr Martens, CK Jeans, Swarovski and Reiss, all at up to 60% less, all year round. From international boutiques and high street favourites to stylish homeware stores, Cheshire Oaks is the one-stop

shop for all your must-have labels, and at this time of year, there are great purchases to be had. But it’s not just about the shopping - you can take some time out to unwind at one of the many cafés and restaurants including a brand new Patisserie Valerie and Café orntons. With ample free parking and family friendly facilities, whatever your plans you’re guaranteed an enjoyable day out. Located just north of picturesque Chester, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is easily accessible for customers travelling from all over the UK. e centre is just 30 minutes from Liverpool and 35 minutes from Manchester and situated just oﬀ junction 10 of the M53 from Liverpool and junction 15 of the M56 from Manchester.

You can visit by car, rail or bus and there’s now a National Express service operating a direct route to Cheshire Oaks from Manchester. For more information on planning your visit to Cheshire Oaks visit www.cheshireoaksdesigneroutlet.com 18

Winter 2015

FASHION

hic Ltd is a North West PR and Events company specialising in the fashion and lifestyle industry. ey have built up a reputation as a fashionable, friendly and unique team who think outside the box. If you’d like to work with or know more about Chic, please visit www.chicnetworking.co.uk or contact us at info@chicnetworking.co.uk is season is the time for celebrating! Celebrating your loved ones, your successes, and another year of being chic. at’s why in our winter column we’ll be showing you how to get the perfect party style with Zuso Clothing, and where to find the most exclusive beauty treatments that will leave you feeling amazing for the year to come. It’s been a massive twelve months in the Chic oﬃces – we’ve worked on some brilliant events, met dream clients, welcomed new members of the team (as well as our youngest member, baby Carter!) and even launched our own digital platform – e Chic Blog. Fashion- forward readers of our column will love www.thechicblog.co.uk. Every day, we bring you brand new content featuring the latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle news. Not only that, but we’re constantly blogging about our favourite food and drink around the North West, places

Winter 2015

to travel, and advice for new mums. ere’s something for everyone, and we’re so excited to share it with you all. When it comes to winter fashion, it’s all about making that extra eﬀort to add glamour into your life when the temperature drops, and it’s depressingly dark - both when we leave the house in the morning and when we come home from work. With the North West being the fashion hub that it is, we know that the big freeze won’t stop you from dressing to impress. With party season underway, we’ve got a fab range of looks to take you from dinner to the dancefloor. Who better to give us the latest trends than Zuso Clothing, experts in the Liverpool fashion scene, and our go-to online boutique? Here’s the winter wardrobe staples from www.zusoclothing.com that we can’t live without.

FASHION

Get The Party Started at Zuso!

For winter evening style that’s out of this world, try Skeena, the latest label to fly onto Zuso’s shelves. is Mini Power Dress will have you channelling your inner ice queen! £90

Set hearts racing in red! is jumpsuit from Lavish Alice is perfect for accessorising with statement jewellery for a polished party look. £65

Made in Chelsea star Louise ompson loves this Smoke & Mirrors Dress from Skeena – and so does Chic! Pair this glamorous digital print dress with caged heels and win instant chic points on the dancefloor. £140

e 70’s trend fits perfectly with party-ready fashion, and this Lavish Alice flare-leg jumpsuit is no exception! is cape-detail one piece has DISCO written all over it, and is bound to look fabulous under the glitterball… £68

e eyelet trend has been a firm favourite this AW15, so look no further than this Lavish Alice mesh dress. You can’t go wrong with a LBD during party season. £65

Visit www.zusoclothing.com now to order your party outfit! Email info@zusoclothing.com for all enquiries. Winter 2015

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

F e e l B e auTiFul inSide and OuT Once Christmas is out of the way, and we’ve well and truly over-indulged, we all start considering our resolutions for New Year – hit the gym, lose weight, experiment with a new look…sound familiar? We believe that with the right treatment, you won’t spend all year trying to look and feel good. In fact, you can do it in a few days. Read our beauty picks to find out the best places and treatments in the North West when it comes to excellent and fast results.

R u S S i a n OlOGy haiR exTen SiOnS Winter is infamous for the wind and cold having a damaging eﬀect on our hair, and we can often find ourselves turning to treatments during this season to get our hair looking its best. With Russianology real hair extensions, you can add that extra volume, length and shine to your hair. Give a boost of vitality to your look this season. Visit www.russianology.co.uk to arrange a consultation with the Russianology experts.

Reviv By aeSTheTically yOu Reviv IV Treatments are the ideal treatment for boosting your energy levels this winter. Whether you’re fighting a hangover or travelling long hours, this reviving drip is full of vitamins and detoxifying agents to rehydrate and replenish you this season. You can also utilise Reviv via boosting vitamin shots. e shots take just ten seconds to administer via a pain-free injection, and leave you feeling amazing for days on end. We recommend the Reviv IV erapy or Shots to anyone feeling under the weather this winter. Go to www.aestheticallyyou.co.uk to find out more. 22

Winter 2015

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

cRySTal cleaR cOMciT eliTe Facial: Crystal Clear COMCIT™ Elite is the hit facial everybody is talking about. COMCIT is Cryo Oxygen Microchannelling Collagen Induction erapy, using the latest anti-aging technologies to stimulate collagen production in the skin, leaving you looking younger and feeling cleansed. is treatment delivers oxygen infusions right to the skin through microneedles, smoothing over the whole face to create micro-channels in the skin, which encourages your skin to act young again. We love this treatment at Chic, as it’s perfect for transforming dull winter skin. Feel rejuvenated with instant results from Crystal Clear this season. Visit www.crystalclear.co.uk for details.

IONIc SONIc cLEANSE

is is Crystal Clears ‘at home microdermabrasion system’ - an incredible cleanser that lifts, exfoliates and deep cleanses the skin via sonic technology and a negative ion charge – literally compelling deep down dirt away from the skin.

u n i q u e n uTRiTiOn deTOx: We love the cold pressed juices available at Unique Juices & Nutrition in West Derby. e 3 Day Juice Detox is a fantastic solution for those winter days when you’re feeling rundown and in need of some healthy eating and quality nutrients. eir restaurant also oﬀers a healthy menu to meet a variety of dietary needs, and they also oﬀer a hassle-free prepared meal service, tailor made to your preferences and health goals. Head to their Twitter at @Unique_JN today for more info on their healthy meal plans and detoxes.

LIFT AwAY THE YEArS

is is our clinically proven break-through sonic anti-ageing beauty gadget. It lifts and plumps the skin and works brilliantly as a pre-party prep before make up for that special night out. Used twice daily for just 2 minutes. 10 MINUTE GLOw

is is our award winning, incredible peel oﬀ face mask. Use to target problem areas or just to give your skin a fast, invigorating boost. Perfect for tired, congested skin.

Winter 2015

heaLTh aNd BeauTy

T h e N o r T h W e s T ’ s L aT e s T B e au T y P h e N o m e N o N : N o N - s u r g i c a L r h i NoPLasTy

e non-surgical nose job is a new and exciting alternative to surgery for those clients interested in enhancing and improving the shape of their noses without the pain, cost, downtime and risks and recovery associated with invasive surgery. e team at Liverpool’s ‘Aesthetically You’ clinic have been oﬀering Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty for over 3 years now, and they have seen this procedure becoming increasingly popular over the last 18 months. e main beneﬁt of this treatment when compared to surgery is that it is less invasive with minimal risks, no bruising and no swelling. Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty only takes 15 minutes, making it perfect for even the busiest client – you could even have this procedure carried out on your lunch break.

So, how does this procedure work? A fine needle is used to inject small amounts of Dermal Filler beneath the skin in order to smooth out sharp angles, fill depressions and restore symmetry, resulting in a smaller more attractive nose and profile. micheLLe from aesTheTicaLLy you says:

‘I love seeing the client look in the mirror for the first time to see their result and examine their profile. It can be quite emotional for them, as a lot of clients are really unhappy with how their nose looks especially those who have a bump or a hooked profile. It gives them a lot more confidence in how they look and feel.’ The 15 miNuTe Nose-joB is aN ideaL TreaTmeNT for:

• Bridge augmentation • Nasal defect/hump correction (straightening of profile) • Nasal tip projection • Enhancing nose balance e results typically last 6-9 months, although this can diﬀer from person to person. ere may be some mild redness in the treated area initially after treatment, which resolves after a few hours. Liverpool’s leading provider of Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty, Aesthetically You, have been changing people’s lives with this simple yet highly eﬀective treatment for years. For a consultation, look no further than Aesthetically You. Ring Aesthetically You for an appointment today on 0151 427 0014. Visit the website at www.aestheticallyyou.co.uk 24

Winter 2015

WishiNg

aLL our readers

a haPPy

aNd ProsPerous 2016 !

from

The excLusive Team

cHIc decor

H o w t o a d d t H e V I P t o u c H t o your w I n t e r Pa r t y !

goodwill and generosity – and what better way to do all these things than throw a spectacular party?

Winter is the season of festive celebrations, parties, and gathering together our family and friends. If you’re planning a big bash for your loved ones, employees, or a group of friends this year, then make sure you show your appreciation by giving your event that VIP quality. ey are Very Important People to you, after all! It’s the time of the year to make memories, bring light into each other’s lives, and share

At Chic Décor, we have all the glamorous touches needed to add sparkle to a superstar event. ere are classic styles that are in demand year after year, as well as new features to parties that are bound to cause a sensation with your guests! Read our guide to creating a fabulous night that will be impossible to forget (no matter how much champagne you serve!).

Winter 2015

cHIc decor LIgHts

When it comes to atmosphere and ambience at an event, the lighting plays a starring role. It’s especially important in winter to make sure your light displays are spectacular, with natural light disappearing from your venue much more quickly. With LED letters, fairy light backdrops, and twinkling centrepieces all an option, you can easily create a warm environment for your special occasion.

re d c a r P e t & r o P e s

e staple of every film premiere and award ceremony across the globe, the uber-chic red carpet and ropes are incredibly popular when it comes to people throwing their winter parties. Simple yet eﬀective, this elegant decoration will show your guests that you’ve pulled out all the stops. ca n dy c a r t

seLfIe statIon

Treat your guests with a playful Candy Cart! Ideal for children and adults alike, this retro party feature is making a big come back. With guests able to help themselves to a pick and mix style selection of sweets, you won’t end up with any complaints about the catering!

Everyone will be taking selfies at your party anyway, so why not set up a selfie station? Gather together a selection of silly props (think feather boas and big glasses) and let your guests run wild. Celebs such as the Kardashians always seem to have a selfie station set up at their event, and plenty of pics to share on social media afterwards. Create a hashtag for your party and check out all the memories the next day! Head to www.chicdecorstylists.com for more information, or contact info@chicdecorstylists.com today to find out how we can help style your event. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @chicdecorstyles

Winter 2015

CHILDSPLAY CLOTHING

The World’s Finest Luxury Brands for Newborn to 16 Years Monnalisa Cardigan - From £77 MiMi Sol Dress - From £275

Monnalisa Chic Hat - £80

Dotty Daydreams Hairclip - From £7

Young Versace Bag - £357 Catya Gloves - £77

Salvatore Ferragamo Shoes - £225

GIRLS

BABY Microbe Cardigan - From £85

Paz Rodriguez Jacket- £95

Paz Rodriguez Sweater - £43

Billieblush Dress - From £49

Monnalisa Chic Pre-Walkers - £85

Boss Gift Set - £70

BOYS Roberto Cavalli Blazer - From £364

Armani Shoes - From £156

Dolce & Gabbana Shirt - From £98

Boss Trousers - From £109

Dolce & Gabbana Belt – £134

Armani Waistcoat – From £83

www.childspl ayclothing.coM

Boss Bow Tie - £31

REBECKAH VAUGHAN

Rebeckah Vaughan

Welcome to our Winter issue of Exclusive, and welcome to my column. It’s been a few weeks since we last caught up, so here’s a little round up of events, nights out, nights in, new products and fab purchases!

Winter 2015

REBECKAH VAUGHAN I was very fortunate to be part of the Klopp welcoming committee, he is such a cool guy and I was the envy of many LFC fans.

Barebaroque Jewellery Tattoos Models

Here I am with the very talented Beth Hyland from www.bhylanddesigns.co.uk Girls Day out at the Echo Arena was heaven. I loved the choice of products available and spent a fortune. e fashion show was inspiring and Amy Childs is an absolute doll! It was great to see so many familiar Liverpool faces and I enjoyed networking with all the fabulous companies based outside of the pool as I wouldn’t normally have come across these great up and coming designers.

I took my niece Izabelle to watch the filming of Sam and Mark’s Big Friday Wind Up which shows on CBBC on erm Friday’s I think.

I’ve got lots of events over Christmas which I will be going ala Bridgette Jones, if you are a single gal too then here’s the ultimate guide for Christmas.

My favourite purchases recently have been my Bronzie (available from www.bronzieuk.com ) which is perfect after a freezing cold spray tan, and Lip Voltage e Powerhouse from www.iconfashionhouse.co.uk which has saved me at least £300 in filler.

It was great to be invited to the Melanoma UK Charity Event. My date for the night was Nicola Gleave from Worn by Us, a great charity that donates its profits from your donated dresses to Breast Cancer Care. We had a fun night in Alderley Edge, it was important to me as I’m a natural redhead and I really need to protect myself from the sun.

e Boodles event saw head honcho Nicholas Wainwright schmoozing with us basics, it was an interesting event that marked John Lennon’s Birthday. Here come the Girls! Real Housewives of Cheshire stars Lauren Simon and Dawn Ward joined Celebrity stylist Lorraine Mcculloch at the Cash for Kids Ladies Lunch at the Hilton. e event organised by Carolyn Hughes PR raised over £7,000

Winter 2015

REBECKAH VAUGHAN

The single girl’s guide to Christmas If you are a single girl dreading Christmas, then take a look at these top tips for survival… 1 – Book a holiday! Whether it be with a group of friends or on your own, take a look at page 91 for inspiration. A girly holiday would be the perfect way to avoid those awkward questions about your sex life, I mean why does the old guy who lives next door to your parents need to know when you last got laid anyway? I’ve never been away on my own before but I’ve heard many people say that some of their most uplifting moments have happened on holiday when they were on a secluded beach. So I’d say book a luxury spa break and enjoy being pampered in the sun.

2 – Hire an escort, no really. You can pay for a hot guy to accompany you to your Christmas lunch and revel in the fact that your perfect cousin who lives in her perfect house with her perfect husband and her bratty little kids is drooling over your hunky fiancé, well if you are going to lie you may as well make it a big one. Go the whole hog and invent a tear jerking proposal, that will make her green with envy. Note* this will only work if your cousin is going to die soon as next year your hunky guy will have probably paid oﬀ his student loan and will be with his actual girlfriend at Christmas leaving you to face little miss smug knickers who will probably have just dropped brat number four. 3 – Rescue a dog. Why is this number three, this should be at the top of the list? e love you will get from your new little companion will far outweigh the attention you get from a smelly man. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse for not enduring a painful Christmas lunch with the parents, I mean you can’t leave a little puppy on its own all day. e Merseyside Dogs Home in Halewood Liverpool www.merseysidedogshome.org have lots of dogs needing homes, but remember a dog is for life not just for Christmas. 4 – Embrace it! Buy the tackiest Christmas jumper you can find, buy eggnog, mince pies and a blow up Santa for your roof. Open the door to every group of carol singers and buy as many gifts online as you can. I said embrace it not go mad, there’s nothing Christmas spirited about getting wooled in Primark. 5 – row your own crimbo party, state clearly on the invitation that the only gift they can bring is a single friend and supply copious amounts of mistletoe. Just like Sarah Beeny’s website www.mysinglefriend.com you present your single friend to other people’s single friends, and vice versa. Although if their single friend is that great then why aren’t they dating him?

Winter 2015

REBECKAH VAUGHAN 6 - Volunteer in a soup kitchen or visit the elderly who are also facing Christmas alone. ere’s so many organisations calling out for volunteers over the Christmas Period, not only will you help someone you will also enter 2016 with great Karma. Visit www.whitechristmasliverpool.co.uk for more information. 7 – Tag along, most of my friends have a lovely family set up, one friend is lucky enough to have her gorgeous 93-yearold nan for Christmas dinner this year. If you can join in with a friend’s family then do so, and enjoy it for all the loveliness it is. No pity party’s allowed! 8 – Buy yourself lots of amazing presents and wrap them up. If you wrap them early enough, you may forget what they are, making it all the more exciting on Christmas Day. Oh how lovely. 9 – Go to church! Let’s face it you’ve got a guy there who wants to listen, won’t talk back, can make miracles happen and they are giving away free wine! Most Churches have at least 2 services on Christmas Day so take your pick, I’ve heard they keep the good wine for the late show.

10 – Book in to a hotel. Lots of the top hotels will provide a three course lunch, if you can’t face people then order room service, use the luxurious facilities then hide out in your room watching movies. You can then go home feeling fat and refreshed. I recommend the Hilton Hotel as the service there is exceptional, it’s not going to work if you book into a run of the mill B&B, the staﬀ won’t want to be there and you will feel like you are imposing. If you are going to do it, then go big or stay at home. Whatever you do, stay positive. We are not alone, there’s lots of us out there so let’s embrace how amazing we are and pretend it’s really fashionable. We must tell each other we are far too pretty to be tied down to one guy and let’s celebrate all the money we’ve saved by not buying Lynx Africa gift sets and chairs that vibrate when they shoot people on the TV… is is my first Christmas as a single lady for many years so enjoy my Christmas meltdown by following me on Twitter @RebeckahVaughan and tweet me your single tips #singlegirlatchristmas SEE YoU iN 2016 LoVE FRom REBECKAH x

Winter 2015

LUGGAGE WRAPPED UP!

Luxury Italian luggage label Bric’s has a reputation for inimitable style among today’s international jet-set. Eternally chic and understated, constructed from an exclusive Mustang fabric, every item is lovingly hand finished with Tuscan full grain leather.

These eye-catching cases are super-strong, light and feature Ted’s unique signature-lining. After all, travel may broaden the ming, but Ted maintains that it’s how you travel as much as where you go that makes the journey one to remember.

This season Radley’s playful ‘Cherry Blossom Dog’ print features on the luggage collection. Fresh and vibrant, available in both hard ultra-light polycarbonate trolley cases and matching soft pieces.

Embark on your travels with iconic designer luggage. This exquisite range is designed specifically for the style-conscious female traveller. Every case comes complete with a gift-boxed set of branded drawstring bags and a branded travel cover.

Back to 295 - 307 Lord Street. Southport. Merseyside. PR8 1NY.

KElly hoppEn

Kelly hoppen's rise to fame, from designing a family friend's kitchen at the age of 16 to becoming one of the most sought after interior designers in Britain, has been nothing short of meteoric. so much so, she was awarded an mBE and appeared in two seasons of dragon's den. now, after the launch of her online store in 2014, more and more budding designers the length and breadth of the country can get the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Kelly hoppen look.' words by simon grant

Successful by design A n E x c lusivE intErviEw with intErior dEsign d oyEnnE And formEr drAgon's dEn stAr, KElly hoppEn

Winter 2015

KElly hoppEn

Hi Kelly, thanks for speaking to Exclusive Magazine. First up, what is the best thing about being Kelly Hoppen? Do you still have those 'pinch me' moments and, if so, when was the last time that happened? I love that I have the creative freedom and the ability to make decisions on my own terms. I am lucky enough to be doing something every day that I love and am increasingly passionate about. So every day is full of moments of feeling incredibly grateful and proud. What aspect of your career – interior designer, author, entrepreneur (to name but a few) – do you enjoy the most? Or is it impossible to diﬀerentiate? ey do all come hand in hand, but my passion has always been for interior design. I can’t imagine doing anything else, which is why I work so hard. Can you describe what it was like to receive your MBE and how does that accolade rank among your many accomplishments and awards? Obviously all of my awards are so special to me and I feel so honoured to have each one. However, receiving my MBE in 2009 was a major achievement. Getting recognition from the Queen was a real honour, and something I will always treasure.

Winter 2015

KElly hoppEn For the uninitiated, can you describe the 'Kelly Hoppen look'? What inspired your love of Eastern cultures and taupe?! I would describe my style as timeless, harmonious and simple but opulent. It is all about elegance that will stand the test of time and will always be chic. I am always inspired when I travel to diﬀerent countries. I love to reinvent my work but keep the philosophy of East meets West as the base of my designs. Honestly, I think my love of taupe is because of its elegance and versatility. It is neither warm nor cool and instantly adds a sense of harmony to a space. What are your proudest achievements to date and why? My daughter Natasha is my proudest achievement, but if we’re talking business in general, I am so proud that I started my own company and have been able to see it grow over the years with all my hard work. Also, launching my online store www.kellyhoppen.com was another highlight, it was something I had dreamed of for so long! What was your time on Dragon's Den like and what prompted your decision to say 'I'm out' for good? It was amazing! I had followed previous seasons of the show, so when I was approached I knew I had to go for it. I decided to leave because I had so many new exciting things I wanted to put all of my energy into. I wanted to refocus my career back to what gave me my success – designing. ere are many examples of entrepreneurs, such as Sir Richard Branson, who have succeeded in spite of – or perhaps spurred on by – their dyslexia. What barriers did that pose for you and how have you overcome them to succeed? I was terribly bullied at school, but actually through dyslexia I have probably achieved more than I would have without it. My confidence has been my main tool to overcome the barriers that dyslexia has posed. Once you start making money in something you are good at you end up forgetting about the rest of the challenges and you focus on what you are confident in. I also focus heavily on visuals, so I use tools like mind maps when I am trying to organise my ideas. It’s all about visual memory!

Winter 2015

KElly hoppEn You come from a very creative family, how much influence has your upbringing had on your career? Who or what is your single biggest source of inspiration? My family are very creative, my mother has an art gallery and my family was in fashion. So I guess being immersed in a creative environment has helped to encourage me. According to my mother, I was always rearranging furniture when I was young; I always knew what ‘worked’. My mother has always been my biggest inspiration throughout my life. She has such determination and a strong work ethic – she still works to this day. My father, who sadly passed away when I was 16, was also a huge inspiration. You're a keen advocate for helping aspiring entrepreneurs, through your ambassadorial work with the Prince's Trust, for example. Why is it so important to help the next generation of business leaders? Simply put, they are the future. I love to see their passion and then I can do my best to help them. My key advice for anyone starting out in business is to find a mentor; someone that helps you find your feet and encourages you to believe in yourself. Also, an extensive awareness of your target market, and confidence in yourself and your aims, allows for endless possibilities. You're also a multi-award winning inspiration for many businesswomen out there. How does that mantle sit with you and what more can be done to narrow the gender divide in business and commerce? I truly love what I do and strongly believe that’s why I have been able to do it so well for so long. I am so proud to be seen as an inspiration for other businesswomen and entrepreneurs. I love to support and encourage others to follow their dreams. Instead of focusing on the gender divide, I think it is more about the individual's drive for success. I believe if you work hard enough you can achieve anything. Do you spend much time in the North West and do you have any favourite places that you like to visit when you're in this part of the world? I filmed the last series of Dragons Den in Manchester, so I got to see a lot of the city and loved it! ere’s a really great culture up there. I have also opened a store in Redbrick Mill (www.redbrickmill.co.uk) to make my products more accessible in the North. Finally, what do you like to do to relax? Do you have any hobbies or interests? I tend to relax at home in the countryside, where I love having dinner with friends and family. Nothing beats great conversation and laughter, and a delicious meal cooked by my daughter Natasha. Simple things like watching TV on my cosy sofa help me to relax. I also make sure I take a lovely sunny holiday every year, which lets me switch oﬀ and take time to let my hair down.

Winter 2015

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Thousands gather for the launch of Liverpool’s most magical Christmas

LIVERPOOL ONE

xcited crowds lined the streets of Liverpool ONE to herald the start of the festive season in the city.

ousands of visitors from across the North West gathered to see what is believed to be the UK’s biggest Christmas tree illuminated. e iconic 30 metre tree, located on Paradise Street, will remain lit until January 3rd. Guests were mesmerised by the 10 minute lightshow spectacular created in partnership with the Liverpool Empire eatre’s Creative Learning Team. Festive projections and songs filled the corridors of Paradise Street to leave people spellbound. It was a magical evening from start to finish with street entertainment, live music and special treats to keep spirits 42

up on a chilly evening. e gift giving started early as Liverpool ONE and their festive helpers gave away thousands of Christmas crackers, each filled with a special prize varying from a £500 Liverpool ONE gift card, 2-4-1 ice skating at Liverpool ONE’s Ice Festival to a free meal for two every month for a year at Wagamama. Radio City presenters Lee Butler and Dave Kelly hosted the main stage on the roof of Starbucks on Paradise Street. Five local bands performed in front of the waiting crowd. On South John Street, shoppers were joined by panto stars from Merseyside’s various theatre groups for a series of special performances. Stars from Shrek the Musical at the Empire and Epstein’s Cinderella were among those giving fans an exclusive sneak peek. Winter 2015

Liverpool ONE’s luxury shopping district, Peter’s Lane, oﬀered visitors a more classical take on Christmas. Liverpool’s Philharmonic String Quartet and the Northern String Quartet performed a number of traditional Christmas songs, while ballroom dancers waltzed throughout. Donna Howitt, Marketing and Business Performance Director at Liverpool ONE, said: “It is an incredible honour to launch Christmas in Liverpool. “e sheer scale of this project has been immense but seeing the smiling faces of thousands of people makes it all worthwhile. Christmas is all about making iconic memories, especially for children, something that will last with people for a lifetime. We hope we’ve achieved that this year!”

LIVERPOOL ONE Chris Brown, Marketing Liverpool director, said: “Liverpool ONE’s celebrations have showed just how magical the city is at Christmas. Our vision and that of our partners will ensure Liverpool continues to enchant visitors and grow its reputation as a must-visit festival destination. “Liverpool is thriving. I am very proud of what we are achieving together. Seeing Liverpool celebrate in such fantastic style is a wonderful way to mark the oﬃcial start of our One Magical City celebrations.” Christmas in Liverpool is full to brim with activities this year. Bar Hütte, located under Liverpool ONE’s Christmas tree on Paradise Street opens from 11am every day until January 3rd and serves a range of Alpine-inspired drinks. After a trip along this year’s Snowflake Trail, visitors can also take advantage of Bar Hütte’s themed chalets dotted around the base of the tree. Each with their own unique theme, it is the perfect location for those looking for a moment’s rest. Returning to Chavasse Park is the Ice Festival, filled with plenty of family friendly activities including Liverpool’s only outdoor Ice Rink, the UK’s largest Ice Slide – now extended to three lanes – as well as plenty of fairground rides. e Après Lodge is the perfect after show location to help warm the spirits. For the brave, remember to wrap-up warm if you plan to take a look around this year’s sub-zero Ice Bar. Made entirely of ice, this year’s chilling space will be filled with fascinating optical illusions. For the shopaholics, there are more than 600 brands to choose from. In addition to all of your high street favourites, why not venture over to Peter’s Lane, home to brands including Michael Kors, Hobbs, Ted Baker London and Reiss, in addition to the only Beauty Bazaar Harvey Nichols in the country. With personal shoppers at hand to cater for your every need, Liverpool ONE really is the destination of choice this Christmas. Liverpool ONE is within easy access of Chester, Warrington, St Helens, Wigan, Southport and Wirral, with on-site parking and excellent bus and rail links. So whether you live or work in the city, or just a stone’s throw away, everyone is encouraged to join the party atmosphere and soak up the magical Christmas spirit that Liverpool ONE is creating. Liverpool ONE’s magical Christmas is part of a citywide campaign this year to create ‘One Magical City’, coordinated by Marketing Liverpool. For a full programme of all of the enchanting events across the city visit www.onemagicalcity.com

Winter 2015

GEORGIa May FOOtE

Georgia's Fancy Foote-work!

An Exclusive interview with Strictly Come Dancing star, Georgia May Foote

Bury-born actress, Georgia May Foote, swapped the cobblestones of Coronation Street for the dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing of late. We caught up with the Northerner to find out more about her fancy Foote-work. Words by Simon Grant

Winter 2015

GEORGIa May FOOtE

eorgia May Foote's acting resume reads like a who's who of Britain's best-loved soaps. You may have seen the 24-year-old actress and model make appearances in Life on Mars, Grange Hill, Casualty, Heartbeat, Emmerdale and is is England '86. But she is best known for her long-running former role as Katy Armstrong on ITV's Coronation Street, a role that she played for nearly five years before leaving the hit show in March 2015. Foote's character Katy enjoyed a tumultuous time in Weatherfield. To give you the abridged version, much of her stint revolved around an ill-fated romance with the loveable Chesney (Sam Aston), the father to their son Joseph. She had her head turned with a brief aﬀair with Corrie hunk Ryan (Sol Heras) which, after a fleeting reunion, ultimately led to Chesney kicking her out and the brunette bombshell moving to Portugal with her mother – keeping the Rovers Return door ajar for a possible future return. While Foote has branched out to appear as a guest and contestant on shows like All Star Family Fortunes, Celebrity Juice and Loose Women over the years, it is her stint on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in recent months that has brought the brunette beauty back to our screens and into

our hearts once more. Twice nominated for the Sexiest Female Award at the British Soap Awards, Foote showed plenty of sequinned sass over the course of her Strictly experience. We caught up with Georgia for an Exclusive chat about her tilt on the thirteenth season of the much-loved Saturday night programme to find out why she decided to take up the Strictly challenge, how she rated her dancing abilities and what she expected her biggest challenge to be whilst on the show.

Winter 2015

GEORGIa May FOOtE Exclusive: Why have you decided to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year? GMF: I have done such a long stint on Coronation Street that it’s nice to do something completely different and I absolutely love a challenge so that is why I want to take part in Strictly this year. Exclusive: How do you rate your dance skills and do you have any previous dance experience? GMF: I absolutely love dancing but I don’t know how good I am because it’s been a while. I’m going to be a bit rusty for starters so I will be generous and give myself six out of 10 so then there’s room to improve. I used to dance when I was younger and used to go to dance school to do hiphop and street dance which is massively different to ballroom. I used to freestyle too so the more precise and technical dancing is going to be quite difficult.

GMF: I am actually. I’m a bit annoying when it comes to card games and stuﬀ like that. I think in a competition like this you kind of admire everyone else. You might watch someone do a dance and think that was stunning but I wouldn’t necessarily look at it and go ‘oh my goodness she’s going to win’. I’m not that sort of person and I admire people for doing really well. I would absolutely love to win but I’m just going to have to try my hardest and see where it gets me. e Grand Final of Strictly Come Dancing 2015 takes place on Saturday 19 December. e four remaining couples all dance again but, with the judges' scores only for reference, the eliminations and ultimate winner will be decided purely by the public vote. Who will win what's been another spectacular series? It's down to you to decide!

Exclusive: What will be your biggest challenge during Strictly? GMF: e live shows because I’ve never really done anything like that before and making sure to stay calm. Also to remember everything because I know you can have one of those moments where your brain just goes completely blank. I do remember talking to my Coronation Street costar Natalie Gumede the year she was in Strictly and she said it was so tiring and that you’ve got to keep yourself on the ball and get lots of sleep.

Exclusive: Are you a competitive person?

Winter 2015

e Strictly Come Dancing Tour 2016 hot-steps into the Manchester Arena on Saturday 30 January (2.30pm and 7.30pm) and Sunday 31 January (1.30pm). Len Goodman, Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and all your favourite dancers then sashay into the Echo Arena in Liverpool on Tuesday 2 February (matinee at 2.30pm and evening performance at 7.30pm).

ELLIE PhILLIPS

y passion has always been, and always will be: music.

I started playing the piano at 4 years old, and growing up, I went on to sing, play recorder, clarinet, baritone horn, euphonium, and more - the obsession began early. I studied International Communications at the University of Nottingham where I graduated with a 1st Class Degree. After graduation I returned to Liverpool, and to music. I went on to the University of Liverpool, and graduated with a Masters Degree in Music Industry Studies. In 2012, I set up the Liverpool Music Awards, and a year later, won North West Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards.

Ellie Phillips: tV & Radio Presenter, DJ and Columnist.

Photography by Peter Corcoran

I began DJ-ing a couple of years ago, and love playing commercial and vocal house. Following a European tour, I became the first ever female DJ to play the main stage at Liverpool Pride, and this summer I became the first ever female DJ to play the main stage at the Liverpool International Music Festival, to over 60,000 people. My presenting career began by chance a couple of years ago, and I now co-host ‘e Guide Liverpool’ on Bay TV Liverpool – the station’s flagship music and entertainment show, and a Sunday night show on Juice Liverpool, which features a few of the best local musicians each week. I also present ‘Style City’ on Bay TV Liverpool - a monthly magazine-style TV show exploring fashion and beauty in Liverpool.

Kind Regards, Ellie

E x C Lu S I V E MaGazINES aRE DELIGhtED tO WELCOME E L L I E P h ILLIPS aS MuSIC EDItOR. Winter 2015

ElEanor nElly Ellie: When did you get into music?

ELEANOR NELLY Interview with Ellie Phillips

Eleanor: I got into music about 3 years ago, when I’d just turned 13. I gigged in a pub on Lark Lane in Liverpool called e Albert, and from there I supported a musician in the Wirral in ornton Hough as a Motown support act. From there it all just went a bit crazy, and I just did as many open mic nights as I could, all around Liverpool.

Ellie: Who are your main influences when it comes to music? Eleanor: I take influence massively from Sandi om, but I also take a big influence from a lot of unsigned musicians too. e Hummingbirds, Shamona, and the Aaron Keylock Band are the ones I really look to. I feel like what they put out is pure music, it’s all heart and soul.

Ellie: What's the songwriting process like for you? Eleanor: I write lyrics first, because I feel like a song should be a story, it’s got to be true. So to me the lyrics are more important, but obviously the melody. And because that’s what everyone wants to listen to, it’s got be catchy and stuﬀ. Ellie: Have you ever written the complete lyrics to a song, and had to wait ages to put it to a melody, because you just couldn’t find the right one for the lyrics? Eleanor: Haha I do it all the time! I have like so many songs in my phone and in books that I just don’t know what to do with.

hen I first saw Eleanor Nelly perform live, she was singing at reshold Festival in Liverpool, and looked so comfortable in the spotlight, singing her heart out, guitar in hand, that I couldn't quite believe that she was just 15 years old. Eleanor Nelly is an infectious little lady (and she is teeny tiny), who performs with an honesty that endears audiences to her within seconds. She has the best name (not that I’m biased) and the biggest hair in Liverpool. Her voice is big and bold, but soft and delicate at the same time - she has an incredible vocal range, and is a real master of the emotions in her voice. Her songwriting goes way beyond her years too, as her debut EP 'Insane And Loved' showcases. Eleanor Nelly's talents were spotted earlier in the year, by the Liverpool International Music Festival, when they named her the "One To Watch". To me she is a real scouse Sandi om with a real Mersey beat undertone, and even though she's still in school, she’s already smashed the North West gig circuit, with a gig supporting Sandi om herself, just days away.

Winter 2015

Ellie: You've just released your debut EP. Tell me about that. Eleanor: Yeah, the EP will be available on digital release really soon, but you can pick up a physical copy at any of my gigs. We started recording it just over a year ago. en I had trouble picking the right songs, and then trouble picking the way they were gonna be recorded and structured and stuﬀ. And then I struggled deciding which order they were gonna go in because I wanted there to be a little story throughout the EP, but it was all perfect in the end.

So what did the story of the EP end up being? Eleanor: e EP is all about wintertime and home. It basically tells the story of being home, and then the last track, the title track ‘Insane And Loved’ is really personal. It’s about going home, and then when I’m home that’s me kinda thing.

ElEanor nElly e launch night for your EP was also your 16th Birthday party too wasn’t it? Eleanor: Yeh it was! I launched it in Studio 2, and I had support from Ian Janco, Lewis Maxwell, Katie Nicholas, and Shamona - all brilliant young musicians from Liverpool. It was just perfect. You’ve gigged all summer, at everything you could. What was the highlight for you? Eleanor: e LIMF Academy was definitely the main highlight of the summer, and possibly this year as well. Getting to meet some amazing people like Steve Levine (Grammy Award winning producer), getting loads of radio play, and getting to know all of the other artists in the LIMF Academy as well. Was being named “e One To Watch” by the LIMF Academy a lot of pressure? Eleanor: I felt a tiny bit of pressure at first, but then when it got to it I was like, all I can do is try my best, and try and promote and stand for young music, kind of thing. And let people know that you don’t have to be over 18 to live your dream. You were only 15 when you were named as “e One To Watch”, you turned 16 a couple of weeks ago. Do you think being 16 will open more doors for you? Eleanor: I’m hoping so, because there are so many festivals that I couldn’t get on because of my age. I’ve applied for all of them this year, so hopefully I’ll get on the lineups. I’m not exactly just a kid anymore.

A big gig that you’ve got coming up very soon is supporting Sandi om. How did that come about? Eleanor: Well I’ve been a fan of Sandi for like 10 years. I was literally at every single gig, and then… I was like I need to learn how to play, I need to be able to put music to my songs. So then… I became closer and closer mates with Sandi as I got older, and then when we were speaking, she was like “why don’t you support me at one of my shows?” – and obviously that was a dream come true for me. e gig is on the 11th of December at the Live Rooms in Chester. I’ve got loads of family and friends coming – it’s gonna be brilliant! What other gigs have you got coming up? Eleanor: I’ve got a gig at e Jacaranda in Liverpool on the 13th of December. I’ve actually got a guy from Texas flying over to support me. His name is Rich O’Toole, and I just found him online and liked his page, because I liked his music, and then somehow became friends with him. Where do you see yourself in 5 years time? Eleanor: Fingers crossed I’ll be playing more places, not just nationally but internationally. I’d love to be playing all of the big festivals too, that’d be boss. Loads more EPs and then eventually an album. What do you get up to outside of music? Eleanor: I don’t really do much other than writing and performing music haha. I do help out at a group called New Beginnings. I work with kids from there doing songwriting with them in workshops to help build their confidence. We’ve been trying to write a jingle but it didn’t work out too well haha I’m definitely not a jingle writer! Haha

Winter 2015

louis BErry

Ellie: No way! How did that come about? Louis: Just through my label. I mean these people are reaching out to me. I've been in talks with the likes of Paul Epworth (who's worked with Adele and Coldplay), and Mark Ronson. e thing is, I need to get my album finished, and they can't get in the studio until like March at the earliest. So just I'm keeping the doors open for working with them in the future, because the album will be finished by mid-march. I'll know how it's going to look and feel after the four/five weeks I'm spending in America.

photos by John Johnson

LOUIS BERRY Interview with Ellie Phillips

ouis recently told me that the music scene is very polite at the minute, and he intends to shake it up. Louis Berry is fierce, gritty, in your face rock and roll with a rebellious charm. His lyrics are straighttalking, no nonsense and full of attitude. His voice is raspy with a bluesy undertone, and scouse to it's core. He got a publishing deal from his first ever gig (which I just happened to be at), and his second bagged him a record deal. Sounds too easy? Once you've heard his music, listened to his lyrics, and most importantly, seen him play live - you'll understand. at was 2 years ago, and now the Ministry Of Sound's Louis Berry is firmly locked into the rollercoaster ride which has just begun. With a debut EP under his belt, national airplay, and a headline tour on the way - this is just the beginning for the lad from Liverpool. Ellie: 2015 has been a crazy year for you. What are you up to at the moment? Louis: I'm supporting Saint Raymond on tour at the moment. I'm on this tour, then I'm straight down to London to do a bit of filming and that, and then I'm oﬀ to Nashville for a month because I'm recording over there. Ellie: What are you doing in Nashville? Louis: I'm working with Jacquire King who's a producer over there. He's worked with Kings of Leon, James Bay, Norah Jones and that. 50

Winter 2015

Ellie: In terms of writing songs, what's the process like for you? Louis: I don't try and write a song really, I just sit down and listen, and let a song come to me, as opposed to writing it. Someone asked me the other day "how would you describe songwriting, does it come naturally to you?" I feel like I'm given it, I know that sounds a bit weird, but I do, I feel like I'm given it and I try and relate to what comes to me. Honestly, I really look at it in a spiritual way. But for me that's the way it is, it's just the way it comes to me. Ellie: Tell us about your debut EP. It's been out a little while now. How did you decide on those 4 tracks? Louis: at was a mixture. It was a bit of a compromise between me and the record label. Basically, they didn't want me to put my best songs on the EP, they wanted to save them for the album. I mean, we're already planning second and third albums, dya know what I mean? We don't even know what this first one's gonna do yet because there's such an abundance of songs. So, what we had to do was to pick ones that would hit the mark, but wouldn't necessarily be our strongest songs. So with the EP, we wanted to we wanted to introduce people to the kinda thing that I do, without giving it away completely. I've got some new music coming out soon. ere might just be an A and a B-side, rather than actually being a single as such. e really good stuﬀ is coming though. No-one's ever heard any of these songs, I've never even played them live. Ellie: Back in April, you were named “e One To Watch” at the GIT Award? Was that a lot of pressure? Louis: I wouldn't say it was pressure at all, I mean that was the third time I'd ever played, 'cos my first gig I got the publishing deal, second gig I got the record deal, and then the third I won an award. So I was like "what have I done to get the award?" I haven't even done anything, ya know what I mean? haha. But I

louis BErry felt like I had to, I wouldn't say live up to it, but... I think the biggest expectations come from me, because I put myself in a position where I feel like I'm here to represent what Liverpool's really about, not what the Liverpool scene is about. So for me, any pressure that's on me is self-inflicted. Ellie: Is the pressure a good thing though? Louis: Yeh definitely. I love the pressure, I thrive under pressure. It's always the people who say they're not nervous who aren't that good. I've seen people who are terrified and they're amazing on stage. I get really nervous before I go on. I think it's the level of performance that I want to give people that makes me nervous. I wanna make it as exciting as possible for them, and for them to be excited, I have to be excited.

Louis: Haha it depends, it depends. Sometimes I can be a right moody b**tard, and I'm just like "I'm not playing out, that's it". So sometimes we party, and sometimes we just kick back and chill. But to be honest, when I'm playing at festivals I'm only there for the time I'm playing. As soon as I'm oﬀ stage I'm onto the tour bus and onto somewhere else. As a listener, I haven't actually been to that many festivals. I've played in festivals before I've been to them which is a bit mad. I've got some big festivals I'm playing at next year already lined up but I can't say which yet. I actually can't.

reception I've been getting on this tour has been brilliant, so it's gonna be good, I'm really looking forward to it.

Ellie: OK so we can't talk festivals, but we can talk about your first headline tour. Are you looking forward to it?

Louis: It depends, who knows where it goes? I'm just gonna try and stay alive haha. Nah I'm looking to take over and be the biggest male solo artist in the UK, and hopefully in the world one day - aim high!

Louis: Yeh I'm massively looking forward to getting out on my own tour. e

Ellie: What's next for Louis Berry? Louis: Recording the album in America, getting back from America with it, releasing it, and it going platinum haha. If I don't make it platinum on this first album, I'm gonna pull my pants down on stage - I've got a bet on with the record label. Ellie (*After I stopped blushing...): Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Ellie: You’ve gigged all summer, what have been some of the highlights? Louis: I think playing at Kendal Calling, ya know. During sound checking and stuﬀ, I was like "wow, I'm gonna be playing on the same stage that Snoop Dogg’s playing later on tonight man" that was some serious stuﬀ man. at was heavy because it was like my sixth, seventh gig, something like that. So that was a highlight yeah, but travelling and things like that too. Seeing people who aren't from my home city, and don't necessarily know me in any real way, singing my songs back to me. e night I played in Manchester was magic, like actually amazing though. To see a scouser in Manchester performing, I wouldn't imagine it'd be the easiest thing to do. And I'm quite broad scouse, but there was an amazing reception. Ellie: You said travelling was a highlight for you. What's it like on the road? Are you a big party animal? photos by John Johnson

Winter 2015

ElliE PHilliPs

Ellie Phillips previews some of the top gigs across the North West this winter • TUESDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2015 TO SUNDAY 9TH JANUARY 2016 AT THE PALACE THEATRE, MANCHESTER. THE BODYGUARD STARRING ALEXANDRA BURKE e Bodyguard, the award-winning musical based on the blockbuster film, is heading to Manchester, starring threetime Brit nominee and X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke. e Bodyguard features a whole host of Whitney Houston's greatest hits including Queen of the Night, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and one of the greatest hit songs of all time – I Will Always Love You.

• FRIDAY 11TH DECEMBER TO SUNDAY 13TH DECEMBER. THE GREAT BALTIC WAREHOUSE. LIVERPOOL. WINTER WONDERLAND Independent Liverpool are turning e Great Baltic Warehouse, in the Baltic Triangle, into a Winter Wonderland for a weekend festival. ey’ve got some of the best restaurants in the city serving up tasty grub, some of the best bakers with millions of mince pies and a secret mulled wine garden. ey’re going to have a gift shop filled with some of the best local arts and craft people they can find. If all that wasn’t enough, they’ve also got a grown up Santa’s grotto, and the soundtrack to this incredible weekend will be provided by lots of local DJs Maurice Stewart and Paul Hanlon, live music and carol singers.

Winter 2015

• SATURDAY 12TH DECEMBER. LIVERPOOL O2 ACADEMY. ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN. Eighties indie heroes, Echo & e Bunnymen, whose songwriting haunted a generation of bedsits and students pads have come back with a bang. If you missed their firework-fuelled headline performance the Liverpool International Music Festival in Sefton Park, then you definitely don’t want to miss them at Liverpool’s O2 Academy. Still fronted by the inimitable Ian McCulloch, this is a band you need to see live.

• SATURDAY 12TH & SUNDAY 13th DECEMBER. LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC HALL MUSIC ROOM. CONNIE LUSH Connie Lush is widely recognised as one of the finest blues singers. She has previously been nominated for Best Female Vocalist at the British Blues Awards, and she was voted Best UK Female vocalist by readers of Blues In Britain magazine for 5 separate years, earning her a richly-deserved place in the Gallery of the Greats. Connie and her band have put a new feel to familiar numbers as well as bringing strong new material to the repertoire. Always guaranteed to fully entertain, Connie Lush live, is definitely not a gig to be missed.

ElliE PHilliPs • MONDAY 14TH DECEMBER. MANCHESTER ARENA. MADONNA e legend that is, will be bringing her incredible live show to Manchester. Madonna live is an unforgettable experience that you don't want to miss out on. e original Material Girl has countless hits, but Papa Don't Preach, Holiday, Express Yourself, and Like A Prayer should all be seen live.

• SUNDAY 31ST JANUARY AT MANCHESTER BRIDGEWATER HALL & MONDAY 8TH FEBRUARY AT THE LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC HALL. REBECCA FERGUSON. e singer from Liverpool was the runner up of X Factor 2010 (beaten by Matt Cardle, but one place ahead of One Direction!). Her debut album, 'Heaven', went on to sell more than one million copies. 2013 saw the release of her follow-up album 'Freedom', and this year she released her tribute to Billie Holliday 'Lady Sings To Blues'.

• TUESDAY 12TH JANUARY. LIVERPOOL EMPIRE THEATRE. HOZIER Hozier, whose global star continues to soar following 2 Billboard Awards, a coveted Ivor Novello, stunning sets at Glastonbury, Longitude and Redrocks, among other summer festival highlights, is coming to the Liverpool Empire in January. • FRIDAY 22ND JANUARY AT THE LIVERPOOL ECHO ARENA. & SUNDAY 24TH JANUARY AT THE MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS ARENA. THE COORS 90s pop fans will rejoice. Andrea, Caroline, Sharon & Jim Corr are on tour in January, visiting both Liverpool and Manchester. e Coors were unstoppable & captured hearts across the globe. eir no.1 album Talk On Corners was a worldwide best seller, thanks to their magic combination of traditional Irish music blended with melodic modern pop. Songs such as Breathless, Runaway, and What Can I Do, will never age.

• THURSDAY 18th FEBRUARY AT MANCHESTER APOLLO. JESS GLYNNE. Jess Glynn is a British singer-songwriter. She is best known for featuring on Clean Bandit's 2014 single "Rather Be"; the song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and Irish Singles Chart.

• SUNDAY 21ST FEBRUARY. LIVERPOOL EMPIRE THEATRE. LEONA LEWIS. Leona Lewis, the British RnB singer who shot to fame as winner of e X Factor television series in 2006, initially trained in opera. She went on to sing jazz and blues, eventually found herself in the world of popular music. She cites Eva Cassidy and Stevie Wonder as her main influences, which gives you an idea of how eclectic her live shows really are.

Winter 2015

JOHN LENNON

RICKENBACKER GUITAR MADE OUT OF CHOCOLATE CAKE FOR JOHN LENNON’S 75TH BIRTHDAY UNVEILED

he legacy John Lennon left behind after two decades at the top of the charts and in the spotlight for his philanthropic deeds has made him one of the most revered artists of all time. John’s 75th birthday was celebrated around the world, in places like Hollywood and New York which was sadly the city where the Beatles would spend his last. In Liverpool, the party was a city wide ‘do’ that brought stars and the people together at e Beatles Story around a perfectly fitting symbol of the musician. Merseyside-based cookery school Can Cook and 28-year-old cake designer Rachel Nugent joined forces to create a Rickenbacker guitar made out of chocolate cake, the late Beatle’s favourite. ere is an amazing story behind the reason a chocolate cake was chosen. John Lennon was born in Liverpool on October 9, 1940, less than a year after

World War II had begun to ravage Europe, and food rationing made Britain miss favourite treats. Even though chocolate was scarce during the war, John’s kind-hearted sister Julia Baird and his relatives would save their rationed treats for the future chart-topper and icon. Little John loved his chocolate cake and his relatives knew it. So, the pieces of the rationed chocolate were saved up so they could make the future star his favourite dessert for his birthday. Hearing that tale sparked an idea at e Beatles Story who collaborated with Julia and cookery school Can Cook to create something special – and something John would have loved – to mark his 75th birthday. Can Cook and Julia also chose that day to launch their fight against hunger, the Imagine No Food Poverty campaign, which NME called ‘the most in-John’sspirit’ event in the world.

Winter 2015

e incredible edible guitar was unveiled in front of special guests, the cast of global smash hit musical Let It Be, which was recently on at the Royal Court in Liverpool, and veteran rocker Randy Bachman, from e Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive, who is most famous for his hit ‘American Woman’. As part of the celebrations, Beatles fans from Liverpool and around the world were encouraged to send birthday messages on social media to mark John’s 75th birthday. Fans got involved with John’s birthday celebrations on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts by sending their well wishes and using the #JL75 hashtag. Even iconic singer Dolly Parton joined in and spread the love of John Lennon through the Twittershpere along with scores of fans and bands around the world. But the surprise of the day came when Jeﬀ Parry, from Annerin Productions, the company behind the brilliant musical Let

JOHN LENNON Also to mark John’s birthday the Beatles Story recently unveiled new memorabilia – the last piano John ever played – alongside an exhibition of never before seen pictures of John Lennon taken by American photographer, Bob Gruen.

It Be, announced that he made a £2,500 donation to the charity and would house the cake at the Royal Court for a limited time. e cake was designed by 28-year-old cake designer Rachel Nugent and featured the guitar and a guitar case covered in edible sheets of icing with John’s pictures on.

Bob served as John’s personal photographer during his time in New York in the 1970s and is credited with taking some of the most famous pictures of John Lennon in his post-Beatles career.

All of the spectacle was made out of chocolate cake – except the strings and volume controls on the guitar. Chocolate brownies were on sale at e Beatles Story, e Cavern and Hard Days Night Hotel. e proceeds of the sale of the brownies went to the Imagine No Food Poverty campaign, which will mean that people struggling to put food on the table will be fed a nourishing meal and can learn how to cook nourishing meals on a tight budget. Speaking before the event, Julia said: “When John was young, it was war time and food was scarce so our family used to save up our chocolate rations so that when John’s birthday was coming up we could make him his favourite cake. “He loved chocolate cake and this year as it would have been John’s 75th birthday I wanted to tell the story and tie it in with fighting food poverty in his hometown of Liverpool today.” Jeﬀ, from Annerin Productions, said: “As a huge Beatles fan from Canada it is an absolute honour to be in the city on Lennon’s 75th birthday and also wonderful that the show Let It Be also has aligned with this significant event. “I am only too happy to support this worthy campaign and we will continue to promote the campaign this evening at our special performance.” e cake – which was kept top secret until the event at Albert Dock in Liverpool - is made out of chocolate because that was the late icon’s favourite. Can Cook director Robbie Davison said: “It’s fantastic that Jeﬀ has donated so much money to the charity and we can now look at ending food poverty in Liverpool and the rest of the country.

“Food poverty in the UK means over a million families with children are going hungry so we have a big job on our hands but with the help of people who love e Beatles and what John Lennon stood for we can stop that. “Our solution is to provide fresh food to everyone who is hungry.

And Mexico’s biggest Beatles fan Tere Chacon, 55, flew into Liverpool to celebrate John’s birthday and visit some of the Fab Four landmarks, like the Cavern and their childhood homes. e Beatles Story is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and is credited as the world’s largest permanent exhibition solely dedicated to the lives and times of e Beatles.

"We will also be retailing a special chocolate brownie that will be sold in the Beatles Story's shops, cafés and through the other Beatles partners in Liverpool. “For every brownie sold, we will make a donation towards a meal for someone suffering from food poverty. “Making John Lennon’s birthday cake was a labour of love. It was for a good cause and one I hope John would have been proud to be a part of.” Martin King, MD of the Beatles Story, said: “Jeff’s kindness will go a long way to help the children and families of this city and Britain who are living with food poverty. “e Beatles Story are proud to be helping such a worthwhile charity and I would like to thank Jeff for his support. e future is certainly looking a lot brighter for the people going hungry in Britain.”

Winter 2015

VIVA BRAZIL Real Housewives of Cheshire star Magali Gorré and her husband Dean enjoying the party at Viva Brazil

(L-R) Hollyoaks stars Sophie Austin, Jennifer Metcalfe, Kieron Richardson

Hollyoaks star Ashley Taylor Dawson

(L-R) Hollyoaks stars Kieron Richardson, Ashley Taylor Dawson, Jennifer Metcalfe and Sophie Austin

(L-R) Everton footballers - Ramiro Funes Mori & Leandro Rodriquez

The sounds of the Samba return to Viva Brazil 115 days after a fire closed its doors, award-winning Brazilian restaurant Viva Brazil has reopened in a blaze of a glory. e city’s movers and shakers, sporting stars and celebrities were given an exclusive sneak preview of the Castle Street restaurant before it re-opened to the public. Samba dancers, stilt walkers and fire eaters lined the street outside the restaurant, keeping guests entertained and spirits high. Inside, VIPs were treated to free drinks and samples of the new menu including sushi and pizza rodizio – a new addition to the restaurant. Viva Brazil first opened on Castle Street in 2010 but required a complete refit following the fire in early August. A team of builders had been working around the clock to ensure it was ready for its re-launch. e restaurant has been completely overhauled with a brand new colour scheme, increased bar capacity, BBQ charcoal grill area and salad island.

Founder and owner of Viva Brazil Restaurants, Andy Aldrich, said: “We’ve been itching to get the restaurant back up and running. To achieve this in such a short space of time is testament to our sheer desire to open. “It has been a complete reinvention of the restaurant and I couldn’t be happier with the result. I think it represents real Brazil with its vibrant colours, there’s nothing like it in the city. “Liverpool has and always will be our home so when we closed, I was absolutely gutted. Fast forward three months and I’m so excited to see the new site. I look forward to welcoming our regular customers and hopefully some new faces as well.”

For more information, please contact Viva Brazil on 0151 236 8080 or by emailing liverpool@vivabrazilrestaurants.com.

Winter 2015

HOLLYOAKS

A coming of age story Celebrating 20 years of Hollyoaks, words by Simon Grant Since bursting onto our screens as a fresh, young and sexy soap newcomer in 1995, Hollyoaks has steadily grown in stature and confidence â&#x20AC;&#x201C; broaching hard-hitting storylines and winning a legion of fans along the way. Now, twenty years on, Exclusive pays homage to Chester's most dramatic fictitious neighbourhood by speaking to one of its longest running stars: Jennifer Metcalfe.

Winter 2015

HOLLYOAKS Hi Jennifer, thanks for speaking to Exclusive Magazine. You've been playing Mercedes McQueen for nearly a decade now; what have been your favourite storylines over the years and why? Oh there’s been so many! ere’s all the comedy stuﬀ over the years – that’s been great to play with the family. But I’ve also had some quite heartbreaking storylines to play too. e most recent one I’ve just finished filming, is when my character, Mercedes, has a stillbirth. It’s obviously not the most enjoyable thing to film but you get so much out of it. It’s really challenging as an actress to do a storyline like that justice. at’s probably the most diﬃcult yet most rewarding experience I’ve had. All the Christmas and birthday McQueen storylines, where everything just goes wrong, are great fun to play. Last year, when we had the train crash after the wedding, that was challenging and fab to do at the same time. What is it about Hollyoaks that has kept you coming back for such a long time? It’s everything really. e writers write so well for my character and they keep coming up with great storyline after great

storyline, so I never get bored with the character. I’m always shaking her up every two or three years! Everyone is amazing – both on and off screen – and we have a real sense of a family unit here. It’s like working with your best mates everyday. at’s lovely. Why do you think Hollyoaks has been so successful over the last 20 years? What have the anniversary celebrations been like for the cast and crew? I think it’s because we’re fun, we’re sexy, it’s young and different from the other soaps but we still do all the challenging storylines as well. I think we portray and deliver some quite difficult storylines – like the stillbirth one and the paedophile storyline with Pete (Buchanan). We do cover a lot of issues that affect young people and we do them to a high standard as well. With the 20-year celebrations there was a buzz for about two months before the actual date. We’d already started filming the 20th birthday stuff in advance but the week it was actually on screen was brilliant. Everyone couldn’t believe we’d been around for 20 years – and I’ve been around for half that time – it’s just gone by so quickly! We had a few drinks and a bit of a celebration on set.

Winter 2015

HOLLYOAKS

You were famously 'killed oﬀ' this time last year before returning to the show in early 2015. What was the reason behind that and how did it feel to return? It just got to the point where I fancied a bit of a kick back. At the time, after nine years, I guess I was just a bit tired. e hours are really long – you get a lot from the days but I just fancied catching up with my family and my friends back home because, being in Liverpool for filming, I don’t always get to see them. I went on a few holidays, went to bed when I wanted, woke up when I wanted – basically did what I wanted for four months. It meant that I came back feeling really refreshed, like I’d started a new job again, so the plan worked. It was good for the character to chill for a bit too. ere are only so many kidnappings and dramas you can go through before you need a rest. e producers understand this, so it all worked out for the best. What was it like when Hollyoaks finally won Best British Soap at the 2014 British Soap Awards? What were the celebrations like? It was amazing! Everyone was so happy, we just couldn’t believe we’d won it. We’re hoping to go back for two more awards next year. Every soap cast gets on really well; there’s no rivalry between us. Every show is diﬀerent, so it’s just about celebrating all soaps, not just your own, which is nice.

Winter 2015

HOLLYOAKS

Hollyoaks is famed for being very glamorous – is it like that in real life? What are the most and least glamorous aspects of your job? Not at all! My mum always jokes that with me its either red carpet or I look like I’ve been dragged in oﬀ the streets! ere’s no in between at all. I think it’s because each day you have to come in, do your makeup, wear all these skintight dresses – which is the last thing you want to do in reality – so for me it’s makeup oﬀ and scrubs on as soon as I can! When we go to the Awards it’s really glamorous. We all go down to London together, stay in a nice hotel and get our hair and makeup done and wear posh frocks. But on a day-to-day basis we are all very real and we just want to get on with the job. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

How do you like to unwind away from Hollyoaks? Hot yoga is probably my favourite thing to do, especially in the winter when it’s cold. You can leave work, get hot and sweaty, clear all the cobwebs out of your head and get a really good workout. If I’m in Liverpool I go to work then maybe the gym, yoga, get a bite to eat – I don’t really do much! Finally, where do you see yourself in 20 years time? I’ve not got a clue! I never thought 15 or 10 years ago that I’d be here now. I don’t even know what I’ll be doing the next morning or next week, never mind in 20 years! It was only this morning I was saying to my friends that I hate making plans, so the thought of making a plan or a prediction for 20 years time scares the hell out of me. I think it’s best to live each day loving what you do.

Winter 2015

ChiNeSe NeW Year

Hey, hey it's the monkey!

Your guide to celebrating Chinese New Year across the North West, words by Simon Grant

You don't need to travel to Beijing or Shanghai to enjoy the colour and pageantry of the Chinese New Year celebrations. In Manchester and Liverpool we'll be treated to some of the most spectacular festivities right here on our doorstep this February. Chinese New Year celebrations will take place across the North West on and around Monday 8 February 2016 with all the colour and pomp you'd imagine from this wonderful annual event. Based around the lunar calendar, this centuries old festival was traditionally a time to honour deities and ancestors. Nowadays, it is a major holiday for Chinese people all across the world, from Mainland China to right here in the North West of England. Often, the evening before Chinese New Year's Day is an occasion for Chinese families to gather for the annual reunion dinner. It is also customary for every family to thoroughly cleanse their house, in order to sweep away ill-fortune and make way for incoming good luck. Families often decorate doors and windows with narrow strips of red paper, called Chunlian or Spring Couplets, with popular themes such as 'good fortune' or 'happiness.' Other activities include lighting firecrackers to ward oďŹ&#x20AC; bad luck and giving money in red paper envelopes. Red is considered a lucky colour and is also supposed to frighten oďŹ&#x20AC; the monster Nian who is thought to come on New Years Eve. You might also notice that the colour gold, which represents wealth, also features heavily.

Winter 2015

ChiNeSe NeW Year

Year of tHe MonkeY e 2016 'Kuei Szu' year is the Year of the Monkey. People born in a year of the Monkey are thought to be witty, intelligent, and have a magnetic personality. Personality traits, like mischievousness, curiosity, and cleverness, make them somewhat naughty. Monkeys are apparently masters of practical jokes that, although well-intentioned, can sometimes hurt the feelings of others. ose born in a year of the Monkey are fast learners and crafty opportunists. ey have many interests and need partners who are capable of stimulating them. While some like the eccentric nature of Monkeys, some don't trust their sly, restless, and inquisitive nature. Although they are clever and creative, monkeys can't always exhibit their talent properly. ey like to take challenges and prefer urban life to rural.

Winter 2015

ChiNeSe NeW Year

C e l e b r ating C H i n e s e neW Year i n M a n CHester

Celebrating CHinese neW Y e a r in liverpool

Chinatown in Manchester is the second largest in Britain and the third largest in Europe believe it or not. Centred on Faulkner Street, its unoﬃcial boundaries form a rectangle enclosed by Mosley Street to the west, Portland Street to the east, Princess Street to the south and Charlotte Street to the north. Manchester's Chinatown emerged in the 1970s and has developed into the main cultural hub for Chinese families in the north of England.

Liverpool has a large and colourful multicultural population, a high percentage of which is Chinese. Liverpool Chinatown was the first chinatown established in Europe and is now home to a great deal of highly reputable Chinese restaurants, takeaways and supermarkets. ere are around 10,000 Chinese residents living in Liverpool and its surrounding areas. Liverpool also has an impressive Chinese archway, the Imperial Arch, which is the largest outside of China. Standing 15 metres (50 feet) high, this spectacular edifice spans the width of Nelson Street and is decorated with 200 Dragons and five roofs. It is truly a sight to behold and worth a visit at any time of the year.

One of Chinatown's most noticeable landmarks is the archway on Faulkner Street. e 'Paifang' was specially built in China and shipped over in three containers. It was completed in Easter 1987, a year after the city was twinned with Wuhan in Central China's Hubei province. e structure was a gift from Manchester City Council to the Chinese community and is adorned with dragons and phoenixes.

Culture Liverpool and Liverpool Chinese Community groups will once again be arranging a series of arts and cultural events within the city, on the weekend preceding Chinese New Year's Day (6-7 February). Expect the celebrations to be chock-full of vibrant street festivities, including a Chinese New Year market, Dragon and Lion Street Parades and a spectacular firecracker display. Events normally centre around Chinatown, George Street and Great George Square.

Manchester's Year of the Monkey festivities will showcase Chinese cultures, traditions, foods and communities. e city holds one of the biggest celebrations in the country, with a four-day event from 4-7 February that will include a city centre parade, art exhibitions and street food. e city also springs to life with hundreds of swaying red lanterns adorning key areas like Albert Square, St Ann's Square and Market Street.

For more information about the 2016 Chinese New Year celebrations in Manchester and Liverpool please visit www.visitmanchester.com and www.cultureliverpool.co.uk.

Winter 2015

etiquet te CONCierGe

luxury concierge service to launch across the north West New luxury travel management company Etiquette Concierge will bring a premium concierge service to guests visiting the North West. Catering to corporate and leisure travellers alike, they will create personalised packages encompassing both business and leisure needs. Securing reservations at the best restaurants, arranging conference suites for meetings and VIP tickets to exclusive events will be amongst the services oﬀered by the company. Etiquette Concierge is launching during a prosperous period for the tourism economy in the region. Liverpool John Lennon Airport recently reported its 9th consecutive month of passenger growth and the visitor economy in Liverpool alone is worth an estimated £3.8bn, supporting 49,000 jobs according to Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership. Etiquette Concierge arranges customised travel management solutions for their clients, providing guests with services they do not have the time to organise for themselves such as accommodation, theatre tickets and personal shopping. Based in Liverpool and covering the whole of the North West, Etiquette Concierge will deliver a five star experience to each client, including a detailed itinerary and a personal travel coordinator. In combining their extensive expertise with attention to detail, the company will revolutionise the concierge sector. e Etiquette Concierge team will put in place whatever the client needs during their stay, in order to implement a fully bespoke service.

“Our luxury travel management services will ensure that our clients are able to relax during their stay in the North West. Our detailed contacts book and insider knowledge ensures that they receive only the best, and we can arrange anything from indulgent spa treatments to helicopter tours. e deluxe service created by Etiquette Concierge is designed so that each client will have a memorable and enjoyable time whilst visiting the region. e high level of interest in our company is unprecedented and we are very much looking forward to introducing our concierge service to our guests” said Client Relations Manager Rachael Bennett, who has 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Etiquette Concierge clients enjoy chauﬀeur driven transportation for the duration of their stay, and the team are available to arrange any additional business or leisure requirements. e company is already planning to roll out the concept nationwide, due to the high volume of demand for a personalised concierge service. Etiquette Concierge Ltd, Horton House Exchange Flags Liverpool L2 3PF Tel : 0151 364 3628 24 hrs 07734 022186 Email: sales@etiquetteconcierge.com www.etiquetteconcierge.com Winter 2015

Rachael Bennett

Knightsbridge of the North A n E x c lu s i v E f o c u s o n M A n c h E s tEr's sp inningfiElds district, words by siMon grAnt

Manchester's Spinningfields has fast become the go-to area for clued up shoppers, diners and drinkers. Here's our Exclusive guide to one of the North West's favourite places to eat and meet. pinningfields is an award-winning development in the heart of Manchester city centre. Global businesses, fine eateries, luxury bars and high-end retailers all rub shoulders within 430,000 square metres of commercial, residential and retail space. is slick £1.5 billion hub is home to some of the city's best independent bars and restaurants, as well as seasonal outdoor entertainment like Screenfields, the Manchester Ice Rink and the festive Bar Hütte.

Meanwhile, Phillip Stoner the Jeweller is the North’s leading diamond and platinum specialist. His beautifully designed jewellery includes the ‘Lila Collection’, named after his daughter, and the fabulous ‘Dee’ ring. While David Wayman has unveiled a new artisan florist on e Avenue. Or how about a high brow art piece from Artzu Gallery, Manchester’s most progressive independent art gallery, which oﬀers paintings, sculptures and photography for art lovers and collectors alike.

shopping

For a touch of pampering, you can dodge the thronging crowds at City Spa Escapes for everything from before-work massages to lunch-time beauty fixes and late-evening beauty treatments. Similarly, you can get dolled up for a big night out at Nicky Clarke and their in-house Jo Pallan brow and lash bar. If it's body sculpting you're after then Pure Gym can help you reach your fitness goals, with no contract or catch.

If designer threads and high-end fashion are your Mulberry bag then Spinningfields is the place for you. A casual stroll along the shopping avenues here will see you stumble across premium brands like Emporio Armani, Mulberry and Oliver Sweeney. Flannel's luxury men's and women's wear also incorporates Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Miu Miu, Lanvin, Gucci, Tom Ford, Ralph Lauren, Ermenegildo Zegna and Paul Smith.

Winter 2015

di n i n g

drinking

ere's no shortage of dining options to suit all budgets at Spinningfields. Casual bites abound with Bagel Nash's mouth-watering selection of fresh bagels, Artisan's back to basics dining concept and chain favourites like Giraffe, Carluccio's and Gourmet Burger Kitchen. For something a bit different, aikhun offers Bangkok-style street food in authentic and traditionally rustic surroundings and Scene, Indian Street Food Kitchen, promises authentic dishes inspired by the street food vendors of India, Pakistan and Southern Asia.

Of course, if it's liquid refreshment you're looking for then Spinningfields also delivers in spades. e Alchemist is where good food and drink meets excellent service in a great environment – not to mention a sublime cocktail menu. e Lawn Club – which also serves locally sourced, seasonal food cooked by acclaimed chef David Gale – has an array of craft ales from around the world, as well as award-winning wines and spirits.

For a lavish special treat, Tattu makes for a sexy departure from the traditional Chinese restaurant experience. Neighbourhood takes inspiration from New York's Meatpacking steakhouses to deliver a casual approach to the fine dining experience. While Manchester House oﬀers modern British cuisine with a twist from innovative head chef Aiden Byrne and e Lounge's 360-degree views of the city. Plus, the ever-stylish Australasia eﬀortlessly combines modern Australian cuisine with Pacific Rim flavours.

e new Dockyard in Manchester brings everything that’s good about its Salford Quays sister venue to the banks of the River Irwell with a large ale and craft beer selection. While e Oast House oﬀers a 'soon-to-be-world-famous' selection of craft beers and ales, Champagne, wine and food inspired by the deli, rotisserie and BBQ, as well as live acoustic music every night.

Winter 2015

fEAturE

Northern Exposure

it's glam up north: curated by rankin Museum of liverpool

his Winter the Museum of Liverpool hosted It's Glam Up North, an exciting new exhibition curated by world-renowned photographer Rankin, which featured the works of acclaimed northern artists, filmmakers and fashion designers – as well as two special pieces from the man himself. Words by Simon Grant As if you needed reminding, It's Glam Up North celebrated all that's creatively brilliant about the North. is wideranging exhibition featured works from Wallace and Gromit creator Nick Park, Turner Prize winner Martin Creed, Factory Records director Peter Saville, John Moores Prize winner Keith Coventry and Wirral milliner Stephen Jones. e focal point of the exhibition came in the form of a charity auction on Saturday 21 November 2015 on behalf of Claire House Children’s Hospice. is inspiring Merseyside based charity provides care, support and choice for families whose children are not expected to live to adulthood. who is rAnkin?

Known for his compelling portraiture, Rankin is best known for capturing icons as they've never been seen before. In 1992, he established Dazed & Confused magazine with Jeﬀerson Hack, which gave Rankin a launch-pad to expose his photography to a wider audience. His body of work since features some of the most celebrated publications, biggest brands and pioneering charities, including Nike, Swatch, Dove and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. He has shot covers for Elle, German Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Esquire and GQ. He is also a patron of Claire House Children’s Hospice. 68

Winter 2015

positivE, wArM And wElcoMing

“I was introduced to Claire House through the Walker Gallery in Liverpool when I was doing a project called 'Alive: in the face of death', which was a documentary and photographic show about people that were terminally ill. So I went along and met the people at Claire House. ” Rankin comments on the Museum of Liverpool website.

“I walked in, I thought I was going to walk into this crazy, depressing hospice, and it was like walking into the most wonderfully positive, really warm, really welcoming atmosphere. e kids were just amazing, they blew me away.” put ting A bit of spArklE in pEoplE's livEs

“en last year they came to me and said 'We've got this opportunity, we can do an auction and exhibition,' Rankin continues. “We came up with a theme which I thought was a really positive theme called 'It's Glam up North', which was a twist on the expression 'It's grim up North'.

“I just thought it was a really nice twist to come up with a theme that was funny and also I think that was a really good reﬂection on what the charity do, because they put a bit of sparkle into people's lives that are diﬃcult.” information visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk.

wining & dining

A guide to wining and dining across the North West this winter season

Wine and Dine

Winter 2015

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS

The Old Blind School Liverpool

t is no wonder that Liverpool is renowned around the world for its beautiful buildings, as just walking around the city is an odyssey of history and architecture. Nevertheless for every building which has been lovingly restored, there are sadly many which lie neglected in need of a loving touch to bring them back to their former glory. One such building was e Old Blind School in Liverpool, before New Moon Company opened it earlier this year as another addition to their group of restaurants.

It is a listed building which exudes an imposing grandeur, plenty of personality and charm. Originally a pioneering school for the blind, it was later used variously as a Police headquarters, a Trade Union centre and a music venue. Working with the talented designers DV8 Designs, New Moon Company painstakingly brought e Old Blind School back to life with lengthy renovations and a stylish aesthetic. e interior of the space boasts two gleaming marble bars, chesterfield sofas, wood burning stoves, a private dining room and a striking chandelier above the grand staircase. Having arrived early, I headed to the upstairs bar where I settled down to enjoy an expertly mixed Blind Orange Mimosa before dinner. My dining companion arrived and we took our seats in the bustling restaurant, where we perused the menu which has an array of options from sharing planks to steaks. We started the meal with artisan bread and juicy Gordal olives the size of marbles, as we sipped an excellent chilled Borsari Inzolia which conjured up the summer months with notes of peach and citrus.

Winter 2015

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS A busy service was underway in the open kitchen, and tantalising aromas filled the air as the team of chefs worked away seamlessly. My starter of beer roasted onion tart was simple perfection, with flaky golden pastry, deliciously sweet onions, crispy old spot ham and an English mustard glaze which rounded off the symphony of flavours. My dining companion meanwhile enjoyed deep fried brie with walnut dust, sour grape chutney and honey caraway oil which added sweet and sharp elements which sat perfectly against the richness of the cheese. I was impressed by my main course of house curry, which was perfectly spiced with seasonal vegetables which are simmered in a 14 spice curry sauce. e dish is served with flatbread and Pilau rice and it was a hearty and enjoyable curry with delicate flavours. My dining companion devoured his choice of British beef and béarnaise, consisting of short beef ribs which are brushed with smoked paprika and honey to make them extra tender and succulent with a sweet and smoky glaze. e accompaniments of chips and corn slaw complemented the depth of flavour of the beef, which was sublime with the creamy béarnaise sauce. For dessert we could not resist the pudding plank, comprising of various treats including sticky toffee pudding, apple pie, chocolate brownie and a cheesecake pot. is is a perfect choice to share as the variety of desserts on the plank means there is something for everyone, from the indulgent brownie to the creamy lightness of the cheesecake pot. We relaxed over a couple of coffees to round off the meal, before retiring to the bar once more where I enjoyed a Kir Royale and we watched the sun setting over the rooftops. It is a pleasure to see this architectural gem being given a new lease of life, e Old Blind School is a special building and it deserves no less. Fabulous! e Old Blind School 24 Hardman Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 9AX 0151 709 8002 www.oldblindschool.co.uk

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LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS

A classic restaurant which never goes out of style Restaurant Bar and Grill Liverpool by Camille Allcroft

estaurant Bar and Grill Liverpool is an elegant restaurant on Brunswick Street, close to the Town Hall in the centre of the business district. e bar restaurant is housed in a former banking hall, a stunning space with a domed glass ceiling, an elegant interior design aesthetic and a refined ambience which impresses as soon as you arrive. e bar has a reputation for perfectly mixed cocktails, with a cocktail menu which boasts all the classics such as Bellini and Martini as well as more unusual options such as Kim Sha and Lemon Cheesecake Martini. e bar has a classic, almost 1920’s feel to it with a symmetrical design which gives way to the open kitchen beyond, where you can watch the chefs hard at work. ere is also a Private Dining Room, which is the ideal place to host business lunches or to celebrate a special occasion. e chargrill, woodstone and clay oven lies at heart of the Restaurant Bar and Grill menu, so there are plenty of grill dishes on oﬀer such as steaks and hickory smoked barbecue ribs as well as seafood and vegetarian dishes (the butternut squash and goats cheese tart is superb). We were seated at a spacious semicircular booth in the restaurant and I ordered the King Prawn tempura, which is one of my favourite starters at RBG. e crispy batter gave way to tender and juicy prawns and the chilli and lime jam added a beautiful zing and sweetness to the dish. My dining companion had the chicken skewers with tikka spices for his starter, served with a wedge of lime, Asian style salad and mint yoghurt. e chicken was chargrilled to tender perfection and the tikka flavour was exceptionally good, whilst the mint yoghurt added a freshness which enhanced the flavours of the dish perfectly.

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LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS For the main course I chose a Caesar salad with chargrilled chicken, crispy gem lettuce, parmesan shavings, dressing and crispy croutons. is excellent dish reminded me why Caesar salad is considered such a classic, because when it is done well it is a very satisfying meal with light and tasty flavours. I ordered the charred sweet potatoes as a side dish, and the slight charring of these really brings out the flavour of the sweet potatoes which are well seasoned with peppercorns and served with a lemongrass crème fraiche which complements them perfectly. We sipped chilled Prosecco Lunetta with our meal, which was light and refreshing with plenty of fruit. My dining companion was impressed with his main course of cheeseburger; a perfectly cooked handpressed beef patty served in a brioche sesame bun, topped with melted cheese, gherkin, lettuce and tomato. e cheeseburger was accompanied by RBG house cut chips (which are slightly thicker than traditional French fries) which were the ideal accompaniment to the delicious cheeseburger, which was hearty and tasty with plentiful toppings and great presentation. We also had a side order of onion rings to share, the batter was crispy and golden, whilst the onion was sweet and these moreish morsels went perfectly with our main courses. We rounded oﬀ our meal with a decadent dessert of chocolate brownie sundae to share, with chunks of chewy brownie atop layers of vanilla ice cream and rivers of hot fudge sauce, which served as a sweetly indulgently way to end a lovely evening. By the flickering candlelight, we enjoyed after dinner cocktails and soaked up the sophistication of our surroundings. ere is a reassuring feeling to Restaurant Bar and Grill which reminds me of another era, and the faultless service coupled with the delicious food and drinks always leaves me eager to return.

Restaurant Bar and Grill Halifax House, Brunswick Street, Liverpool, L2 0UU 0151 236 6703 www.individualrestaurants.com Winter 2015

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS

A taste of Manhattan in a stylish setting NYL Restaurant and Bar Liverpool by Camille Allcroft

he sweeping splendour of the former Royal Insurance Building in Liverpool is the elegant setting of NYL Restaurant and Bar, which draws its menu inspiration from New York inspired cuisine as well as modern European dishes. e stucco work, wood panelling and feature lighting in the restaurant immediately create an impression of grandeur which adds to the pleasing aesthetic of the open-plan space which boasts a long bar where an array of bespoke cocktails are served alongside an impressive wine list. ere is a timeless appeal to NYL which successfully brings old and new together to create a contemporary restaurant which retains the best of its original features. After a warm welcome, we perused the menu at our comfortable booth and I was impressed by the choice on oﬀer with a selection of delicious options available such as burgers, steaks and seafood. We sipped an excellent Merlot and enjoyed fresh artisan bread with olive oil and balsamic as we decided what to order. I chose leek and potato soup for my starter, served with a mini tin loaf and a tangy and sweet pickled onion butter which was just divine spread upon the warm loaf. e soup itself was a real winter warmer, hearty and thick with a superb flavour profile and a peppery kick.

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My dining companion chose a Mediterranean style starter of mozzarella salad with marinated heirloom tomatoes, frisse lettuce, popcorn shoots and watercress pesto. is was drizzled with a balsamic reduction and olive oil which further enhanced the sharp and sweet flavour profiles of this simple classic. For the main course, my choice of risotto with Mediterranean chicken, chorizo, piquante peppers and Manchego cheese was simply wonderful. e perfectly cooked Arborio rice and tender chicken was elevated by the piquante peppers which added a sweet and spicy flavour to the dish. e exquisite presentation of this risotto was a work of art, with a finesse which suggested a fine dining style and a beautiful eye for detail. e Manchego cheese added a creaminess which complemented the succulent chicken and the whole dish was a superb marriage of well-matched flavours. My dining companion savoured his perfectly cooked 16oz rump steak, served with braised shallots, confit tomato and a dressed salad. e steak was tender and juicy with a slightly smoky flavour to the meat, which was elevated by the sweetness of the braised shallots and the freshness of the crisp salad. A side order of irresistible triple cooked chips made the ideal companion to our main courses. is generous portion of

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS chips needed no adornment other than a little coarse ground sea salt and the crispy texture was indicative of really good homemade chips. ere was no argument about what to choose as our second side order, because we both settled on macaroni cheese as soon as we saw it on the menu and this was a good choice because it was rich and creamy with a delectable crispy cheese topping.

sorbet and strawberry gel was a revelation, the slight aniseed of the Sambuca contrasted perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple and strawberry and the richness of the chocolate fondant, which had a divine texture similar to a mousse. I love to try new things and I found this dessert to be an exciting reimagining of a traditional warm chocolate fondant.

I always see dessert as the most indulgent part of a meal and there were many tempting dessert options on oﬀer at NYL. Anything which features the classic combination of cookies and cream can only be a good thing in my experience, and we found this rule to be proven when we ordered the cookies and cream dessert at NYL. is consisted of a deconstructed cheesecake with a creamy white chocolate and vanilla mousse pot served alongside two Oreo cookies, fresh strawberries and a nut brittle crumb.

e glamourous and stylish surroundings at NYL Restaurant makes it the ideal place to go for a dinner date or an enjoyable lunch. e service was excellent and the food was exquisite in both flavours and presentation. After such a lovely evening, I was left wondering why I had waited so long to try NYL and I would not hesitate to recommend it as an exceptional restaurant in Liverpool, with a diverse menu which oﬀers something for everyone.

e combination of chocolate, strawberries and cream was a delight to the palate and the variety of textures added even more enjoyment to this dessert which tasted as good as it looked.

NYL Restaurant and Bar 1 North John Street Liverpool L2 5QW 0151 294 4069 www.nyliverpool.com

e second dessert we chose to share was equally inventive, and it was the first time I had ever tried a chilled fondant. e chilled chocolate fondant with pineapple and Sambuca

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LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS

The Smugglers Cove Liverpool by Camille Allcroft

ne bitterly cold Saturday in November, we strolled along the Albert Dock in Liverpool feeling decidedly chilly and in need of some warming food to put the wind back in our sails. Just as well then, that we had a table reserved at e Smugglers Cove which is renowned for its rum-based cocktails, rotisserie chicken, home comforts and deli boards which are ideal for sharing. We were whisked to a table by the window, which aﬀorded us a view of the world outside as well as the bustling restaurant. It was lunchtime and service was in full swing in the cosy space, which has exposed brickwork, a striking chandelier and ornamental weapons on display in case you should need to battle some pirates! We enjoyed juicy olives and warm flatbread with butter as we soaked up the welcoming ambience and decided what to order. Smugglers Cove has a great reputation for cocktails and deservedly so, with plenty of tempting options available such as black cherry martini, rose mai tai and sharing cocktails such as dead man’s chest which contains a whole bottle of Bacardi Carta Oro rum! I opted for the mango sour, a tropical burst of Kraken Black spiced rum, mango purée, lime juice and sugar syrup which was a welcome taste of summer. My starter of spiced parsnip soup was a real winter warmer, hearty and thick with a deep flavour and plenty of subtle spice. Two generous slices of fresh artisan bread went perfectly with

the soup and it was presented in a cute mug which proclaimed ‘do not feed the seagulls’. My dining companion enjoyed a starter of chicken presented in a skull, served with chipotle crème fraîche which was subtly spicy with a hint of sweetness. My main course of cauliflower cheese pie with HP sauce, mashed potatoes and peas was divine, a comfort food classic perfect for such a cold day. Buttery shortcrust pastry gave way to a flavoursome filling of rich cauliflower cheese whilst gherkins, pickled onions and pickled cauliflower on top of the pie provided a tangy piquancy which

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contrasted well with the indulgent cauliflower cheese. Creamy mashed potatoes and mushy peas as well as HP sauce provided moreish finishing touches to this dish, which I could happily eat regularly. My dining companion enjoyed whole rotisserie chicken with hot piri piri sauce, which came with heaps of crispy seasoned chips. e chicken was so tender and juicy and the hot piri piri sauce complemented the succulent meat, adding a fiery rush of spice. We shared a side order of onion rings which were sweet and tasty in a crispy golden batter and these sat well with

LIVERPOOL RESTAURANTS

our choice of main courses. We had certainly enjoyed a feast fit for any buccaneer, and the food was satisfying and indulgent throughout whilst the service was attentive and friendly. We sat back and sipped a crisp chilled Trebbiano as we contemplated serious questions, such as pirates, smugglers and desserts! ere was not much need for contemplation however, as we were immediately swayed by the delectable sweet treats on oﬀer, opting for a choice of two desserts to share. A traditional trifle sundae was a fun take on a classic trifle, consisting of rich cream, ice cream and custard layered above a fruity sponge and topped with fresh strawberry, sprinkles and mint leaves. e final flourish of a chocolate and marshmallow kebab with Sailor Jerry chocolate sauce was a further indulgence, with the sinful sauce drizzled over the kebab to create the perfect delight of flavours. Strawberry and chocolate always work well together and the warm chocolate sauce added further enjoyment alongside the toasted marshmallows.

After a double espresso as black as the depths of the ocean, we were fully restored and ready to face the cold evening air once more. e Smugglers Cove is a restaurant which has so much to oﬀer from the sweeping bar area and impressive cocktails, to the excellent food menu with an array of dishes as well as a kids menu with options such as mini burgers and bangers and mash. e interior design is fun, with a secret hideaway atmosphere which makes you feel that a pirate may appear at any moment! Shiver my timbers.

e Smugglers Cove Britannia Pavillion Albert Dock Liverpool L3 4AD 0151 703 6555 thesmugglerscove.uk.com

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MANCHESTER RESTAURANTS

The timeless charm of a true classic Grill on the Alley by Camille Allcroft

o many new restaurants are opening in Manchester of late and it is undoubtedly a pleasure to see these new kids on the block, which add diversity to the already thriving dining scene. Amongst all of these emerging restaurants, it is a pleasure to visit a classic and the Grill on the Alley is a well-established favourite in the area. Located on the corner of Ridgefield Street, the restaurant is famous for its 28 day matured premium beef steaks, seafood and classic dishes. e space boasts a sophisticated ambience, with an appearance which charms as soon as you arrive. A glowing illuminated sign on the wall spells out the restaurant name, pendant lights create a jolly warmth whilst exposed brickwork and a sweeping bar area conjure up an aesthetic which you could easily find in downtown Manhattan. After a warm welcome we were seated in a cosy booth close to the open kitchen where evening service was in full swing and chefs were plating up dishes which filled the air with a delicious aroma. After examining the many options on the impressive wine list, we selected an excellent Kleine Rust fair trade South African 2014 Pinotage Shiraz, which was a rich and vibrant wine with plenty of fruit. As we perused the menu, we enjoyed nibbles of warm baked loaf with salted butter and chorizo butter as well as marinated olives. e loaf was crusty and doughy and the chorizo butter was smoky and piquant with plenty of bite. I chose a smoked haddock fishcake for my starter, which was well-proportioned with a crispy golden breadcrumb which revealed a perfectly seasoned filling of flaky smoked haddock within. A homemade tartare sauce complemented this dish, as did a garnish of salad leaves dressed with a lemon oil which further enriched the smoky haddock flavour. Meanwhile, my dining companion enjoyed a starter of spiced honey glazed chicken skewers accompanied by a slightly sweet and spicy chipotle mayonnaise and bacon crumb which enhanced the dish. e chicken was tender and the chipotle mayonnaise was irresistible, adding a smoothness and bite to the dish. Music and laughter filled the air and there was a lively hubbub of conversation which added to our enjoyment of the meal, there is a genuine warmth to everything about

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Grill on the Alley which adds a homely feeling to the restaurant. For the main course I ordered the grilled supreme of corn-fed chicken with truffle butter, summer greens and sorrel cream. e beautiful presentation of the dish immediately wowed me, with the chicken set upon a bed of the truffle butter, surrounded by the sorrel cream and topped by the greens which added a burst of colour to the plate. e chicken was tender and the sorrel cream added a wonderful smoothness with a delicious bite, whilst the decadent truffle butter elevated the flavours with an autumnal depth. e greens added a summery crunch of texture and a freshness which rounded off the symphony of flavours with aplomb whilst a side order of home-cut fries with a sprinkling of sea salt was a simple companion to this dish.

MANCHESTER RESTAURANTS My dining companion was delighted with his choice of T-bone steak, served with home-cut chips. e succulent steak dominated the plate, and it was expertly cooked to his preference of medium-rare, with a simple addition of tomato and mushroom which offset the steak whilst the Béarnaise sauce was light enough to allow the flavours of the steak to shine. A further side order of onion rings were crispy and tasty with a wonderfully sweet taste to the onion within the perfect batter. For dessert we chose two classics which served as a sweet denouement to the meal after such superb main courses. e raspberry Pavlova with Amara cherries and summer fruit was deeply evocative of sunny days with an explosion of rich and sharp berry flavours paired with a meringue which was both crunchy and chewy in texture. A divine sticky toffee pudding followed suit with a light sponge enrobed in rivers of rich toffee sauce, whilst vanilla ice cream was the ideal accompaniment to this indulgence. We relaxed over coffee and soaked up the atmosphere as the evening drew to a close. e peerless service, delicious food and sophisticated yet relaxed ambience create a restaurant which is delightful in every way. It is easy to see why the timeless charm of Grill on the Alley is so highly regarded, and the whole evening was an unsurpassable experience throughout. e food was second to none in both flavour and presentation and I was so impressed by the varied options available. e Grill on the Alley 5 Ridgefield Street Manchester M2 6EG 0161 833 3465 www. blackhouse.uk.com/grill-on-the-alley

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MANCHESTER RESTAURANTS

Portrait of an artist Manchester House by Camille Allcroft

I am fortunate enough to experience the work of some truly amazing chefs, who I regard as artists such is their creativity and flair. I marvel at the way they can take a few ingredients and create a masterpiece which elevates food to the status of art. One chef renowned for his skill is Aiden Byrne, a culinary wunderkind who was a Head Chef by the age of 22 and has worked in a number of Michelin-Starred establishments. Aiden is now Head Chef at Manchester House as well as running e Church Green in Lymm, Cheshire with his wife Sarah. I have heard so much about the dishes served at Manchester House and I finally found myself there one afternoon recently, eager to experience the menu. Walking in to the reception I felt I had taken a wrong turn and ended up in an oﬃce block like any other, until I saw the hostess stand where I was greeted warmly and ushered to the elevator up to the restaurant. e doors opened and deposited me in a stylish world with warm lighting and world-class service. I was whisked to my table, pausing to marvel at the symmetrical open kitchen where Aiden Byrne himself was hard at work, leading his team in to a busy lunch time service with a smile and poise which suggested that this was a man very much in his natural element. e kitchen at Manchester House is designed so well that it feels like a stage for the chefs to work on in front of their audience of diners. ere is a real buzz to the ambience, an infectious energy in the air which it feels truly exciting to be a part of. e interior is sophisticated without trying too hard, the décor is simple enough to let the food do all the talking and relaxed music is played at a volume which does not intrude.

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Sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc I decided on the 8 course lunchtime set menu, an epic culinary odyssey I could not wait to embark upon. A square of soft thyme scented brioche was set before me, topped with crispy chicken crackling and smothered in roasted chicken butter. is was a sensation and the accompaniment of artichoke consommé was full of flavour and complemented the delicious brioche so well. Grilled oyster, roasted sweetbreads and king oyster mushroom was a dish with real finesse and parsley dust added a freshness and depth which enhanced the pure and subtle taste of the oyster beautifully. e restaurant was filling up and the sound of animated conversation filled the air, whilst Aiden and his team worked with choreographed grace. Pork rillette with smoked anchovies and leek fondants was a plate straight from a fairytale, with the glittering anchovies adding a silver accent and a smokiness which sat well against the slight saltiness of the pork. e subtly sweet leeks and the crispy sourdough added further enjoyment to this impressive creation. Roasted cod with barbecued celeriac and walnut purée was a revelation; the whitest cod loin I have even seen flaked apart beneath crispy skin, whilst barbecued celeriac added a woody accent and walnut brought in a slight sharpness. I

MANCHESTER RESTAURANTS love to be surprised by food and I would never have imagined pairing grapes with fish, but indeed the grapes on the plate added a burst of sweetness which made me beam with pleasure. I just love how food can surprise and delight in this way and the many thoughtful elements to this dish such as fried celery leaves and a tender confit chicken wing made it a triumph. is course was paired with a homemade sweet cider, which gave a rush of blackberry which danced on the palate. e next course of Yorkshire venison haunch, served pink in the middle, glistened against the white plate and a fermented red cabbage purée and jus added a splash of deep red which translated in to a wonderful taste. is dish had everything; it was at once meaty, sweet, sharp and slightly sour from the red cabbage whilst a blueberry mousse pot added a further contrast with sweet and savoury elements. After so many incredible courses, I was equally thrilled by the elegant desserts. Firstly blackberry, apple and bay combined the best of autumn, a hedgerow harvest was conjured from a sharp blackberry sorbet and meringue whilst sweet apple and bay rounded oﬀ the dish. Chocolate, pineapple and liquorice was just divine, served atop a rich chocolate cookie, the liquorice sorbet was another moment of surprise which made me smile whilst pineapple added sweetness in abundance and pineapple crisp added texture. e culinary masterpiece drew to a close with a latte and a wooden box inscribed ‘thank you’ which opened to reveal six perfect macaroons. It is little touches like this which show a true attention to detail which sets Manchester House apart. e meal was exquisite and each plate was beautiful in terms of presentation and flavour; it was clear to see how much work had gone in to both menu development and execution and I was privileged to experience the work of Aiden Byrne and his team. Manchester House is a restaurant which oﬀers an unforgettable experience, from the theatre of the open kitchen to the gastronomic pleasure served on every plate which will stay with you long after you have set down your fork.

Manchester House 18-22 Bridge Street Spinningﬁelds Manchester M3 3BZ 0161 835 2557 www.manchesterhouse.uk.com Winter 2015

MANCHESTER RESTAURANTS

AWARD WINNING CATALAN RESTAURANT ARRIVES IN MANCHESTER

fter much fanfare, the award-winning Spanish deli, restaurant and bar, Lunya, has opened its doors in Manchester. e Catalonian specialty restaurant launched in October and is already taking similar bookings to its Liverpool restaurant. Located on Barton Arcade, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and caters for more than 200 diners. Executive chef and co-owner of Lunya, Peter Kinsella, said: “It has been a rocky road to get where we are now but I couldn’t be happier with the finished product. Manchester has such a diverse offering of restaurants already but we’ve had lots of interest from across the city. “We’ve hired a high calibre of staff in Manchester, all experts in their individual field, whether that is deli connoisseurs, expert carvers or even sommeliers.” e ground floor has a large deli and an intimate bar area where people can enjoy coffees and pre-theatre snacks, tapas and drinks throughout the day. e first floor has a large dining area and feature an open kitchen. e deli stocks a huge range of Catalan and Spanish food and drink with three hams carved off the bone, 40 artisan

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Spanish cheeses and more than 1,000 other unique Spanish ingredients. e menu is varied, with husband and wife team Peter and Elaine, who run the restaurant taking pride in only sourcing the finest artisan Catalan and Spanish ingredients. ey personally travel to Spain every few months to visit suppliers and seek out new delights for their ever increasing range. Lunya caters for all occasions, from breakfast through to dinner, coﬀees and cocktails and even has its own Spanish Gin bar. Lunya makes all of its own sourdough bread on site in addition to all of the traditional favourites and lots of modern inventive Catalan food, including gambas pil pil with vanilla, estofada with an orange infusion, salt cod spring rolls, chorizo and fennel seed sausage rolls. In addition and new to Manchester, diners can enjoy a number of exciting fusion dishes such as Catalan hotpot and Crema Catalana Manchester tart. Further details are available from: www.lunya.co.uk

CHESHIRE RESTAURANTS

Neapolitan style pizza in Chester

adore fine dining, and I always marvel at the finesse with which chefs create gastronomic art from a few key ingredients. Nevertheless I also love simple food, and I find that pizza is a true classic when it is made the right

way.

I prefer traditional Italian style pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven, with toppings which only serve to enhance the base with uncomplicated flavours. is type of pizza is best enjoyed whilst having a leisurely meal with a good friend, and that is exactly what I experienced recently when I visited Urbano 32 in Chester.

Urbano 32 by Camille Allcroft

e restaurant describes itself as a ‘Pizza restaurant, bar and social meeting place’, and my friend and I met there on an afternoon in late summer, to find plenty of people were seated outside soaking up the fading sunlight whilst enjoying generously proportioned pizzas. Urbano 32 specialises in sourdough base pizzas, baked in a clay oven at temperatures over 500c and there are plenty of tempting varieties on the menu, with toppings including Nduja Spicy Sausage and King Prawns. e space has a welcoming feel to it, with a pretty tiled floor as you walk in to the open plan bar and restaurant area which features exposed brickwork and cosy booths. ere are craft beers and lagers on oﬀer at Urbano 32, as well as a great wine list including an impressive array of sparkling wines. We were seated at a comfortable booth and served refreshing fruit infused water whilst we looked at the menu, a pleasant touch which I thought showed a real attention to detail. Eventually we both chose tomato, mozzarella and basil pizzas despite being tempted by the specials of buﬀalo mozzarella sandwich, fusilli rusticana and penne arrabbiata. In no time at all, the pizzas arrived fresh from the woodfired oven and we sliced in to them eagerly to find that they tasted just as good as they looked! is was classic Neapolitan style pizza, served slightly charred with a soft, doughy base and a sweet yet sharp tomato sauce which was so Mediterranean. Plenty of creamy melted mozzarella perfectly contrasted with the zingy sauce and a single basil leaf was a delicious finishing touch to the pizzas. Alongside the pizzas we decided to share a couple of side dishes, choosing from an impressive array including various salads. We decided on pan fried green beans with breadcrumbs, butter and parmesan shavings and garlic and rosemary roast potatoes, both of which were excellent. e green beans were surprisingly indulgent, with an irresistible buttery flavour, a crunchy texture from the breadcrumbs and an extra touch of decadence from the

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CHESHIRE RESTAURANTS parmesan. e garlic and rosemary roast potatoes meanwhile were crispy, fluﬀy and perfectly seasoned which made them so moreish. For dessert, we decided on an order of amaretto tiramisu and a baked raspberry cheesecake, the dessert options all sounded delicious and the summer berry panna cotta caught my eye too! e towering amaretto tiramisu was just as tiramisu should be, sinfully rich and boozy with plenty of flavour and just enough sweetness. I loved every bite of the baked raspberry cheesecake and the limoncello syrup elevated the dessert to the next level whilst the raspberries added a pleasant tang. We enjoyed a few glasses of excellent Senso Trebbinao with our meal, which was pleasantly dry with a hint of apple and it complemented the pizzas well. It is always the sign of a good meal when it lasts for a few hours, and we found that we had spent a considerable amount of time enjoying the delicious pizzas, served with a side order of gossip and laughter. I had an superb time at Urbano 32 and I have already been back again since for a second helping of the amazing pizzas, which by the way are two for one on Tuesdays! It was a lovely meal with friendly service and perfect food and the staﬀ were very pleasant, checking on us regularly throughout the meal. Urbano 32 certainly deserves its reputation for amazing pizzas and it is a fun and welcoming place to dine or drink when in Chester, with a great atmosphere and food which never fails to put a smile on your face.

Urbano 32 32 Bridge Street Chester CH1 1NQ 01244 311487 www.urbano32chester.co.uk Winter 2015

CHESHIRE RESTAURANTS

A feast to share BRASSERIE TApAS ANd GRIll AT THoRNToN HAll HoTEl ANd SpA

by Camille Allcroft

he four star ornton Hall Hotel and Spa, situated in beautiful countryside in the Wirral, is famous for its 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant e Lawns, headed up by talented Executive Chef Matt Worswick. I recently went to try the other dining venue at the hotel, the newly launched Brasserie Tapas and Grill which oﬀers a relaxed and informal style of dining with menu development overseen by Matt Worswick and dishes created by Chef Dan. ere is a lunch menu served during the day and the evening menu (served from 5pm) focuses on a sharing style of dining with an impressive array of tapas dishes available as well as grill options such as whole baked sea bass and barbecued rump steak. I really like the trend for small plate dining which is popular at present and there is a great variety of dishes on the menu at Brasserie Tapas and Grill which create a good meal to share if you order a few dishes. We were warmly welcomed and seated at a table which gave us a superb view of the terrace and the striking scenery beyond. We perused menu options such as chicken breast with chorizo stuﬃng and paprika calamari with lemon aioli, whilst we sipped an excellent Paniza Macabeo, which was chilled to perfection with refreshing citrus top notes.

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For a starter we were drawn to tempting nibbles such as spicy toasted broad beans and salted almonds, which would have been superb with the wine, but instead we chose an excellent trio of Bruschette. e crispy bread was loaded with toppings of dressed tuna, mozzarella and sundried tomato and chorizo, and this was a light way to start the meal with rich Mediterranean flavours which gave us an appetite for the feast to follow! We chose a range of dishes to share for the main course; the braised quinoa and smoked chicken salad was a delicious dish, whilst two orders of croquettes were sinfully indulgent. One portion was filled with Manchego cheese and Parma ham and the crispy golden crumb gave way to a filling full of melted cheese, whilst the ham complemented the cheese well. e second portion of croquettes were a chefs special and they were full of crispy chorizo and melted Manchego, whilst the bed of watercress they were served on provided a welcome peppery contrast. A portion of spicy chorizo worked well, with plenty of fiery flavour and a nice contrast from the toasted focaccia it was served with. Meanwhile, we delved into a plate heaped with grilled halloumi, which has to be one of my favourite ever

CHESHIRE RESTAURANTS

dishes, it is so simple yet full of enjoyment and the wonderfully mild taste of the halloumi was allowed to shine as it was grilled just right with a real buttery taste coming through. Risotto is a favourite of mine and I am always happy to see it on the menu, so I indulged with the butternut squash risotto with sage. Sometimes I find that restaurants struggle to get risotto just right and this was undoubtedly the best I have ever tasted. e Arborio rice was cooked to perfection, in a sauce with a little melted cheese running through it and a hint of black pepper, whilst the chunks of butternut squash added a satisfying sweetness. is was comfort food in its best form, hearty and indulgent with a light touch of sage which added further flavour. For dessert we went with sweet and savoury options, choosing both a cheeseboard and a chocolate brownie to keep up the theme of sharing. e brownie was rich and sweet with a delightful freshly-baked chewiness which played against vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. e cheeseboard was superb with a great selection of cheeses including cheddar, goat’s cheese, Manchego and stilton,

surrounded by a selection of crackers, butter, fresh apple and a delectable tomato chutney which added a zingy sweetness to the cheese. We had a super meal at Brasserie Tapas and Grill and the dishes showed a flair for the use of superb produce, a wealth of interesting flavour combinations and beautiful presentation. I would recommend dining here to anybody who enjoys excellent food in an informal environment, with a wide range of dishes available which are ideal to share.

Brasserie Tapas and Grill ornton Hall Hotel & Spa Neston Road ornton Hough Wirral CH63 1JF 0151 336 3938 www.thorntonhallhotel.com

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MAT T woRSwICk

A down to earth chef who is making his mark I N T E R v I E w w I T H C H E f MAT T woRSwICk by Camille Allcroft

hornton Hall Hotel and Spa is a four star resort set in seven acres of grounds in the Wirral, conveniently close to both Liverpool and Chester. e hotel is well known for its luxurious accommodation and spa breaks and it has firmly appeared on the map as a dining destination, with two restaurants to choose from. e Lawns Restaurant holds three AA Rosettes and is known for fine dining, whilst the Tapas and Grill oﬀers a more

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informal dining venue with a menu of small plates and deli boards. Executive Chef Matt Worswick has made a huge impression on the culinary scene and he has gained extensive industry experience as well as receiving impressive accolades. Matt recently appeared on the BBC television programme Great British Menu and I got the chance to interview him, and to get the inside scoop on cooking on television, what he thinks about awards and where he gets the inspiration for his delicious dishes!

You held a Michelin Star when you worked at Glenapp Castle Hotel at the age of only 26 and you have worked with renowned chefs such as David Everitt Matthias at le Champignon Sauvage. Having already achieved so much, what are your future aspirations? Accolades are a great indication of success and I have been very fortunate so far in my career to have achieved so much. My future aspirations would be to further develop my food style, as I am constantly looking to improve and to build a greater customer base at î &#x17D;e Lawns Restaurant. You have cooked in renowned establishments since the age of 18, what is your favourite aspect of being a chef? Being a chef has great rewards such as being able to be creative in designing dishes and sourcing interesting ingredients. I really like that each day is unique and varied in duties, the time passes very quickly and I really enjoy cooking in general.

Who would you say are your greatest influences in terms of other chefs? David Everitt Matthias has been the biggest influence on my career to date, he is an incredible chef and mentor. î &#x17D;e food he cooks is outstanding and the restaurant has a real family feel which creates a great working environment. What advice would you give to aspiring chefs? Work hard, learn as much as possible and enjoy it! Your cooking is bold and innovative with a fine dining style, where do you get the inspiration for your dishes? My main food style revolves around the seasons, I get inspiration from what is available at that time, as food in season generally tastes better!

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MAT T woRSwICk e Lawns has been mentioned in the Michelin Guide 2015, you already hold 3 AA Rosettes and it is becoming known as a destination dining restaurant for fine dining. What do awards and accolades mean to you as a chef? Accolades are a benchmark to a chef, they indicate how well people see the restaurant doing, however customers must be the real focus and knowing your market. I find some chefs focus too much on achieving accolades and cook for the guides. You should cook great food for your guests and as a by-product accolades will follow. You competed on this series of Great British Menu for the chance to cook at a banquet marking 100 years of the Women’s Institute at London's historic Drapers Hall. What did the brief mean to you, since your own Grandmother was a member of the W.I.?

You recently took part in the BBC television programme Great British Menu and won the North West heat. You have also previously appeared on Masterchef the Professionals, is it diﬃcult to cope with the pressures of cooking on screen? Cooking on television is a completely diﬀerent ball game to cooking in a professional kitchen, you are in the producer’s arena and you have to play by their rules which can be hard sometimes. ere is always the added pressure of not making mistakes, but as a chef pressure is instilled in you very early on in your career, which helps in those situations! You introduced a limited edition Great British Tasting Menu at e Lawns Restaurant, served using some of the props from the BBC show. How did your diners react to such an amazing gourmet experience? e diners who had the Great British Menu experience seemed to enjoy it. Each diner was given a score card to judge the dishes themselves as if they were the judges! It is nice for people to experience what they have seen on television. You chose to use meat sourced from your own local Wirral butcher Callum Edge during the Great British Menu, how important is it to you as a chef to forge relationships with trusted local suppliers? ere is a tendency nowadays to bang on about ‘local suppliers’, but in truth I have just as many bad suppliers locally as good, the key is to pick the exceptional suppliers and build a great relationship with them. Edges Butchers are incredible at what they do, a truly great local supplier!

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e brief was very personal to me this year, having my grandmothers influence to call upon was a natural process. It was very easy to write the menus as I had a personal connection with the brief. Finally, you cook a lot of fine dining dishes, but let us in on a secret, what is your ultimate comfort food indulgence dish which you enjoy making at home? Macaroni and cheese is a dirty delight! It’s wrong but yet it feels so right!

Exclusive Travel

xclusive Magazine is delighted to have award winning travel writer paul knowles as our in-house Travel Editor. Each season, paul ensures that Exclusive readers remain at the forefront of the hottest destinations, emerging travel trends and undiscovered locations. In every issue, he reviews a premium choice of destinations to suit everybody, which span across the globe. paul hand-picks a selection of hotels, resorts and exciting places which will capture the imagination and take you on a journey of discovery. whether you want a relaxing beach holiday in a far ﬂung location, or an exciting city break with plenty of

sightseeing to do, the choices on oﬀer in our Travel Section will give keen travellers plenty of insight. The readership of Exclusive is over 1 million people due to our distribution across top hotels and businesses, and we know that our readers want to be at the forefront of current travel trends. paul delivers you in-depth reviews of the best places to go, and look out for his Exclusive Recommendations at the end of each review, where he gives you the hottest tips on what to do at each destination. with the Exclusive Travel Section, you will never again be stuck for an idea of where to go on holiday, instead you will be spoilt for choice as to where to visit ﬁrst!

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Fairmont Bab Al Bahr A B u D h ABi

airmont Bab Al Bahr is situated just a 45 minute drive from Dubai, in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Guests at this opulent hotel are immediately struck by the exterior of sheer blue glass and this amazing first impression continues when you walk in to the hotel, which has a host of luxurious accommodation including 369 stylish rooms and suites of unparalleled luxury.

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL to relax than by the side of the vast outdoor swimming pool, where you can soak up the sun before taking a refreshing dip. Gourmet hamburgers are served poolside too, which makes it the ideal spot for a relaxed lunch whilst enjoying the surroundings. Business needs are well catered for at the hotel, with 10 meeting rooms available at the resort and the hotel staﬀ on hand to accommodate any further business-related requirements during the course of your stay. In the evening, you can enjoy fine dining at the hotel, with options including the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill, which is the first Abu Dhabi restaurant from the celebrated British chef who has held three Michelin Stars. e restaurant is lavishly designed and features an eyecatching flame wall, what better way to round oﬀ a perfect day at the resort than to dine on one of the many tempting options on the menu such as steaks and seafood. e Fairmont Bab Al Bahr is the ideal choice of resort for an enjoyable stay in Abu Dhabi. EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

A visit to e Chocolate Gallery at the resort is a must for any sweet tooth, where you can enjoy signature hot chocolate and watch as master chocolatiers craft delectable creations from premium ingredients. e Signature Afternoon Tea with chocolate truﬄes and bubbly is a superb experience. e hotel has its own private sandy beach, where you can soak up the sun in total seclusion and enjoy spectacular views. e resort is the perfect place to stay whether the purpose of your visit is business or leisure and the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is conveniently close by. In the morning guests can enjoy a varied breakfast which is made to order with premium fresh produce, before embarking on a day of adventure, as there are so many activities available nearby. e shopping in the area is outstanding with the nearby Yas Mall just a short walk away which has everything from artisan shops to a Venetian style market where you can enjoy a boat ride down the canal ways.

For an authentic taste of Arabic cuisine, visit the Cedar Lounge and Bar to enjoy food inspired by local Arabic dishes from mezze to kebabs as well as traditional style coﬀee. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Bain Al Jessrain Khor Al Maqta United Arab Emirates www.fairmont.com/abu-dhabi

e hotel is centrally located and it makes an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area, such as the Ferrari theme park which boasts the fastest roller coaster in the world, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race Circuit, and Yas Waterworld, the region’s largest waterpark. Culture and history is plentiful in the area too, with the incredible Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque nearby. Of course, the sunny climate means that relaxing and topping up your tan is also on the agenda during your stay. What better place

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Delano hotel L A s V e g As.

‘What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’, so goes the old saying and there is no better way to enjoy your stay in ‘Sin City’ than to relax in the comfortable surroundings of the Delano, which combines high-end conceptual design with every conceivable luxury guests could wish for during their stay.

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL e hotel is centrally located, just a few steps from the expansive 120-acre Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. e facilities at the hotel cater to your every need, such as the elegant Bathhouse Spa featuring steam rooms and saunas, as well as 12 treatment rooms where you can unwind from the pressures of everyday life by indulging in massages, wraps and facials designed to make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. For those guests who do not wish to neglect their fitness regime, there is also a full workout facility available at the resort featuring state of the art equipment.

Of course, if the purpose of your trip to Las Vegas is not purely leisure, the Delano is also well appointed to deal with your business needs such as meetings and conventions, with a personalised service available to coordinate all of your business requirements and 31 meeting rooms situated across four floors. ere is nowhere better to stay in Las Vegas, when it comes to a resort which caters to every need you may have during the course of your stay.

If relaxation is your preference during your stay, the Delano Beach Club oﬀers a pool club environment where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and personalised service alongside fun touches such as a submerged chess board.

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Dining options at the hotel include Della’s Kitchen, which serves breakfast, lunch and specials from a menu which focuses on classics and comfort food created using carefully sourced ingredients. e interior design combines natural and industrial elements to create a welcoming ambience which aims to relax its guests by evoking the comforting atmosphere of home. ere is also the choice of the 3940 coﬀee shop where guests can enjoy artisan tea, coﬀee, fresh juices and light snacks including burritos and paninis. For more of a fine dining experience, celebrated chef Alain Ducasse has introduced his signature style of cookery to Las Vegas with his restaurant Rivea, with a menu which draws its inspiration from the finest elements of French and Italian cookery, served in a stylish space with blue and white tones and 180-degree views of the city below.

Light Nightclub at the nearby Mandalay Bay Resort is well worth a visit for a great night out with music from headlining DJ’s. Book a rejuvenating massage at the Delano Bathhouse Spa for the ultimate way to relax and unwind during your stay. For a more luxurious stay the Delano has a range of suites on oﬀer, from the more modest King Suite to the opulence of the Penthouse Superior Suite. Delano Las Vegas 3940 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas NV 89119 United States www.delanolasvegas.com

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AKA Central Park N e W Yo rK

always find that staying in an apartment rather than a hotel is a great way to enjoy a city break, and the AKA Central Park in New York oﬀer a home away from home during your stay in the city that never sleeps, which is ideal for longer stays. e studio apartments are located just oﬀ 5th Avenue, in a newly built 17 storey block

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL which comprises 134 one or two bedroom apartments. e studios come with every amenity you could possibly need during your stay, such as well-equipped kitchens and access to a communal residents lounge as well as a fitness centre where you can work out during your stay. e central location of these apartments makes them the ideal base for your stay and the iconic New York department stores are close by as well as several landmarks. e apartments make a relaxing alternative to staying in a hotel, as staying in your own studio feels like a much more laidback environment and gives you a taste of living in this exciting city. It is nice to know that you can cook a meal or just make a light snack whenever you want, as having your own kitchen on hand is so convenient. Nevertheless, there are numerous places to dine out in the area and eating in restaurants and diners is second nature to most New Yorkers, with large portions served at reasonable prices. ere are many traditional New York diners nearby where you can fuel up with a big breakfast before a long day of sightseeing and the apartments are just one block from Central Park, perfect for a relaxing stroll away from the crowded city streets. Guests can view weekly cinema screenings at e a Cinema situated in AKA Central Park and the a café is a perfect place to unwind and catch up on your emails over a cup of organic loose-leaf tea or artisan coffees supplied by Counter Culture Coffee. Attention to detail at AKA Central Park is paramount and you can enjoy a very relaxing stay, with every convenience you could desire readily available either within the apartments or nearby. e AKA Central Park is a particularly good choice if you plan to stay slightly longer in New York City as it allows you to feel settled and unhurried during the course of your stay. e attentive staff are on hand to cater to your every request and this only makes your trip to New York even more comfortable and relaxed. EX C LU S I V E R E C o m m E n dAT I o n S

Whilst in New York visit the famous Magnolia Bakery at 401 Bleecker Street for exquisite cupcakes. Expect to queue at peak times, but the cakes on oﬀer make the wait worthwhile! e AKA Resident Service is on hand to provide recommendations and advice during your stay at AKA Central Park. AKA Central Park oﬀers the useful service of helping to plan your stay in advance, and they are happy to secure theatre tickets, restaurant reservations and more prior to your arrival.

AKA Central Park 42 W 58th St New York NY 10019 United States www.stayaka.com

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Mandarin oriental B A r C e LoNA

andarin Oriental is a name which is synonymous with luxurious and comfortable hotels around the world, and the Barcelona location of the hotel is a true reflection of this with impressive facilities which attract loyal guests to return year after year. î &#x201C;e hotel is situated in the Passeig de GrĂ cia and it is undoubtedly one of the most renowned hotels in a

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL city which has so much to offer. e hotel is synonymous with five star luxury, but it is contemporary and fun and far removed from the stuffy atmosphere which is usual at some five star hotels. e stylish design feels refreshingly modern and the neutral colours evident in the 120 luxurious rooms and suites are the hallmarks of renowned Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola. From a garden room to the stunning penthouse suite, the accommodation at the hotel has something for everyone and the facilities available are superb. During your stay at the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, indulging in some pampering at the spa and wellness centre is a must. Designed as a haven of tranquillity and rejuvenation, the spa offers ai massage, holistic treatments and vitality baths which will see the stress of everyday life vanish and leave you feeling like a new person. e twinlane swimming pool and fully-equipped fitness centre also ensure that you have somewhere to keep up with your fitness regime whilst on holiday, which is just as well since the good food on offer during your stay is plentiful. e produce in Barcelona is of premium quality and this is reflected in the food served within the hotel, which has an impressive selection of drinking and dining options with no less than six venues available. e jewel in the culinary crown at the hotel is undoubtedly Moments Restaurant which holds an incredible two Michelin Stars, with chef Carme Ruscalleda and her son Raül Balam at the helm. e restaurant continually impresses with its flair for envisioning dishes which are focused on fresh ingredients inspired by traditional Catalan cuisine, with delicious temptations available on both the à la carte menu and the renowned

tasting menu which is an unforgettable experience for any gastronome. For a more relaxed approach to dining, the Mimosa Garden oﬀers al fresco meals and cocktails in the summer months in a setting which takes advantage of the warm Barcelona weather with a garden full of mimosas and fragrant lavender and a menu devised by Ángel León. e Mandarin Oriental Barcelona is a hotel which successfully combines luxury and style with contemporary conveniences, and it is a superb choice when staying in Barcelona. EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

Try the Oriental Harmony Signature treatment at the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona Spa to relax the senses. e Bankers Bar is the perfect place to unwind over a few drinks, with delicious and unusual drinks on oﬀer such as Rum infused with tonka beans and cacao, Amontillado syrup, grapefruit and yuzu. Upgrade to a Mandarin Junior Suite to experience the indulgence of staying in a suite with the added luxury of butler service. Mandarin Oriental Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia 38-40 08007 Barcelona Spain www.mandarinoriental.com/barcelona

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Villa La Vedetta F Lo r e N Ce

hen it comes to European cities, I would be hard pressed to imagine a city more romantic than Florence, in the beautiful Italian region of Tuscany. î &#x201C;is inspirational city is the perfect place for a weekend getaway, and the architectural and artistic masterpieces at every turn makes it ideal for a cultural break with so much beauty visible around

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL every corner. Aficionados of art and architecture should ensure they visit e Galleria dell'Accademia whilst in Florence, which displays Michelangelo’s “David,” and of course the Uffizi Gallery which exhibits renowned art works such as Botticelli’s “e Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “Annunciation.” e romantic Villa La Vedetta, which was built in the 1800’s is a renaissance villa which is now a hotel offering unparalleled luxury. e hotel is ideally situated, close to the Ponte Vecchio and there are sweeping panoramic views of Florence to be enjoyed. e hotel is more intimate than some of its counterparts in Florence, with just 18 guest rooms and relaxing living spaces where guests can unwind during the course of their stay. e fountain outside is the first thing which creates an impression when you arrive at the hotel and the cypress, bay and olive trees create a sense of hidden tranquillity. A dip in the panoramic pool is sheer indulgence, with stunning vistas over e Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, e Santa Croce Church and the Florence skyline. After a swim, drinks at the poolside bar is a must, followed by a stroll through the ‘secret garden’ where you can relax on the terrace and soak up the surroundings. For a truly unsurpassable experience, staying in the Bellavista Suite is unforgettable. e expansive suite is split over two levels and affords guests sweeping views of Florence from its large windows. e bedroom, living quarters and main bathroom of the suite are situated downstairs whilst the second floor is equipped with a living room area and second bathroom. Exquisite touches such as antique furniture and stylish design complete the beautiful interior and the bathrooms boast whirlpool baths and Ortigia products, which means you can enjoy an indulgent soak during your stay. e standard guest rooms at the villa are equally well appointed, with free WIFI access, TV, music centre and minibar. As you would imagine, dining at the villa is an experience, with the award winning Onice Restaurant on hand serving delicious foods and an extensive wine list featuring an impressive selection of Tuscan red wines. e restaurant gives on to the garden and the pool, so you can enjoy a little air after your meal and take in the beautiful surroundings before settling at the marble bar for a couple of after dinner cocktails. e Villa La Vedetta is a truly romantic hideaway, which allows you to enjoy a relaxing stay in Florence with excellent service and facilities on hand. EX C LU S I V E R E C o m m E n dAT I o n S

e Villa concierge is happy to arrange guided sightseeing tours for you during your stay.

an authentic taste of Italy. ose with a sweet tooth should try the excellent Gelato available in Florence too. Visit the historic Ponte Vecchio for beautiful views of the River Arno and the buildings nearby. e famous bridge dates back to medieval times, so it is a must for history aficionados.

Villa La Vedetta Viale Michelangiolo, 78 50125 Florence Italy www.villalavedettahotel.com

Try fresh pasta, local cheeses, Tuscan wines and charcuterie for

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Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah DuBAi

s luxurious destinations go, Dubai is one of the most opulent, with a selection of decadent hotels and resorts to choose from. e Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah has a private beach, a choice of luxurious accommodation and no less than six restaurants and lounges to enjoy during the course of your stay. rill seekers will not be disappointed either, as the hotel oﬀers

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL from Michelin Starred chef Heinz Beck which serves contemporary Italian food as well as LAO which serves an impressive menu of South East Asian cuisine with a uniquely modern twist. e Mezzerie is the main restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, serving breakfast lunch and dinner buﬀets from an international selection of dishes with something to appeal to everyone. If you prefer home comforts, you can head to the Peacock Alley to indulge in a traditional afternoon tea served with freshly made patisserie in the stylish surroundings of this lounge which is named after the famous tea lounge in New York City. You really are spoiled for choice at this opulent hotel when it comes to dining and leisure facilities, and those in the mood for a relaxed style of dining should undoubtedly head to Serafina Bar which is inspired by the Italian Renaissance with a traditional Venetian 'Bacaro' style dining experience available as well as bespoke cocktails and live entertainment. e Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah is a hotel second to none, with everything you could possibly need on hand. EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

Take advantage of the two temperature controlled swimming pools at the hotel for a relaxing dip. e expert concierge team can help with every request, from dining recommendations to planning your excursions and activities. e resort has a limousine service available so that you can enjoy private chauﬀeur driven transportation during the course of your stay. Waldorf Astoria Driving Experiences, allowing you the unforgettable experience of driving some of the most luxurious and fast cars in the world such as the Ferrari 458 Italia, the Mp4-12C by McLaren, and the Porsche GT3. After the adrenaline rush of driving a super car, you can relax in the hotel spa and enjoy a choice of almost 50 services and treatments. e opulent indoor space features twelve treatments rooms, whirlpool hot tubs and two private couple’s suites. is really is a spa that has everything, from hydrotherapy to thermal relaxation rooms and the spa team are on hand to help you feel relaxed and pampered.

Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah Crescent Road e Palm Jumeirah Dubai United Arab Emirates www.placeshilton.com/dubai-palm-jumeirah

Brunch is always a lavish occasion in Dubai and the Waldorf Astoria Friday Brunch is an unforgettable event. Inspired by the brunches served in New York City, there is a vast selection of international foods available including traditional brunch dishes and drinks, Italian cuisine from Social by Heinz Beck and Southeast Asian dishes from LAO. e brunch is made even more special as you can enjoy the performance of the live jazz duo as you relax and take your time to savour the delicious food and drinks. e other dining options at the hotel are varied with Social restaurant

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Antigua C A r L i s L e BAY

erulean blue skies, clear waters and white sand beaches fringed with palm trees; the beautiful island of Antigua makes a memorable holiday destination with so much to oďŹ&#x20AC;er.

Situated just thirty minutes from the airport and the vibrant capital of St Johns,

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL the luxury Carlisle Bay resort is set in a magnificent location on the Antiguan coast with rainforest on one side and the beach on the other side. e secluded resort provides its guests with a world of refinement, with four restaurants, an indulgent spa and exceptional service. e 82 spacious suites at the resort feature floor to ceiling windows, neutral interiors with plush furnishings and useful features such as WIFI and a desk where you can catch up on a little work during your stay. No detail is overlooked and every day, fresh fruit is brought to your room and bottled water, a minibar and Espresso machine are on hand to make sure that you can enjoy a light snack or drink at any time of the day. e suites all have a balcony or terrace furnished with daybeds, enabling you to benefit from the stunning views, and it is a true pleasure to relax on your balcony over drinks during the evening and to enjoy the warm air. e resort design aesthetic reminds you that you are in the Caribbean, with wooden plantation style shutters and hammocks where you can sip a cocktail or two before dinner. Dining at Carlisle Bay is an experience not to be forgotten and there is plenty of choice to suit everybody. Indigo Beach is a relaxed restaurant where open doors let the sea breeze drift in and there is an unmissable Caribbean beach barbecue held once a week. e cuisine served at Indigo Beach is healthy and delicious, with fresh salads, homemade pasta, excellent local grilled seafood and breads on oﬀer.

Intricate Indonesian style carved wooden doors welcome you to East restaurant which is renowned as one of the best dining destinations in Antigua for its fusion menu of Japanese, ai and Indonesian dishes as well as sushi and sashimi. e popularity of East means that booking is essential, and it is well worthwhile making a reservation for this superb gastronomic experience. Ottimo revolves around a relaxed Italian style of dining with a menu of wood fired pizzas, pasta and homemade Gelato whilst e Jetty Grill is a beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood, grilled meats and carafes of wine. For an even more memorable dining experience during your stay, I would recommend beach or jetty private dining which can be arranged by the resort to meet your exact requirements. Carlisle Bay certainly has it all and there is nowhere better to stay in Antigua for a touch of luxury. EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

Visit the museum of Antigua and Barbuda in St Johns for a fascinating insight in to the local history and culture. Constructed in 1747, this is the oldest building still in use in the city. Try the local seafood for an unforgettable gastronomic experience; the lobster, snapper and mahi-mahi are particularly good. Both group and private yoga and Pilates lessons are available on the yoga pavilion within the resorts magnificent tropical gardens. Carlisle Bay Old Road St. John's Carlisle Bay Antigua & Barbuda www.carlisle-bay.com

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one & only ocean Club BAhAMAs

he One & Only Ocean Club is the perfect Bahamas destination when you want to relax and unwind in surroundings of sheer luxury. î &#x201C;e resort is nestled on a white sandy shore next to turquoise ocean waters, and it was once a private estate. î &#x201C;e colonial style mansion is a stunning property which immediately creates an impression with its classic grandeur.

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL e sweeping terraces of the restaurant are the ideal place to enjoy your meal and afterwards you may choose to retire for after dinner drinks at the Dune beachfront bar overlooking the glittering ocean, where signature cocktails are served alongside an impressive wine list. Dune is also open for breakfast and there is no better way to start the day than to enjoy breakfast surrounded by the expansive ocean views. Relaxation is high on the agenda at the One & Only Ocean Club, and the award winning spa oﬀers 8 private Balinese style treatment villas where you can feel the cares of the world fall away with pampering treatments before enjoying the waterfall showers and jet tubs. Your nurturing spa experience is sure to leave you feeling fully rejuvenated and fresh fruit and herbal teas are served to complete the revitalising package. If you are feeling more energetic during your holiday, personal trainers are on hand to create tailormade regimes to suit your fitness level. For a relaxing stay in paradise, the One &Only Ocean Club really is second to none. EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

If you are celebrating a special occasion during your stay, the resort will be happy to arrange champagne in your room upon arrival. Excursions such as catamaran cruises, snorkelling trips and diving courses with qualified instructors can be arranged at the resort reception. Brush up your tennis skills during your stay on one of the six tennis courts. Tennis professionals are also available for private lessons. e resort is renowned for elegance and sophistication and the accommodation includes 107 Bahamas guestrooms and suites within the two wings of the hotel, named Hartford and Crescent. e rooms have garden or beach views and they come with spacious balconies or patios. e expansive pool area is the perfect place to relax and soak up the warm Bahamian sun, and the Pool Terrace Café means that you can linger over tropical drinks, international cuisine and a wide selection of rums. For a special occasion, I would recommend booking one of the opulent private residential villas for your stay, which have infinity pools and gardens.

One & Only Ocean Club One Casino Drive Paradise Island Bahamas www.oceanclub.oneandonlyresorts.com

As you would imagine, the dining options at the resort include a range of award winning restaurants which serve something for everyone, as well as a gourmet room service menu which is available 24 hours a day. Dune restaurant brings you the cuisine of the internationally celebrated chef and restaurateur Jean-Georges Vongerichten within the surroundings of the British colonial interior design aesthetic created by the renowned French interior designer Christian Liaigre.

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise C A NA DA

urrounded by majestic towering mountains and overlooking the beautiful pale green waters of Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a resort which really has it all. In summer, guests can enjoy horse riding, canoeing, fishing and mountain biking whilst taking in the striking scenery, whilst in winter, the resort is renowned for the excellent skiing which it has to oďŹ&#x20AC;er. If

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL skiing is not for you, there are plenty of other adrenalinefilled pursuits such as ice skating and snowboarding available too. Guided walks on the mountains are a must for those keen to be energetic during their stay, and there are more than 120 miles of wilderness trails where you can enjoy a hiking excursion. For those guests who prefer to take it easy, the sedate horse-drawn sleigh rides also available make a welcome alternative to the more adventurous pursuits! e Fairmont Chateau is situated in the Banff National Park Alberta which is a UNESCO world heritage site renowned for its beauty and there is a strong emphasis on environmentally responsible tourism in the area. e stately chateau stands on the shores of Lake Louise, and many of the 550 luxurious guest rooms have panoramic vistas. e selection of accommodation on offer is impressive, from the premium luxury of the lake view suites to the cosy tranquillity of the mountainside rooms. ere is a good choice of food and drink at the resort and the Walliser Stube offers an authentic fondue experience, which is the perfect warming treat after a long day on the ski slopes. e dark wood panelling and arched doorways speak of refinement and sophistication and the restaurant has amazing views of the scenery outside from its large windows.

If you prefer a few quiet drinks, the restaurant also has plenty of Swiss beers to choose from as well as a floor-toceiling wine library which holds a selection of 500 bottles. ere are also two more restaurants at the Fairmont Chateau, to cater to your dining needs. e Fairview serves contemporary Canadian cuisine with an emphasis on local organic produce, whilst the Lago Italian Kitchen serves traditional Italian fare alongside an excellent Italian wine list and cocktail menu. Whilst staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, afternoon tea is a superb way to relax and treat yourself, before perhaps rejuvenating both body and mind with a trip to the spa which oﬀers an impressive array of treatments. Staying at the Fairmont Chateau is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Lake Louise, whilst enjoying the unsurpassable comfort and luxury of the resort.

EXCLUSIVE RECommEndATIonS

Visit Beehive Mountain for some of the most spectacular views and relaxing walks in Canada. e legendary Lake Agnes Teahouse is the perfect place to unwind during a hike, serving more than 100 types of tea alongside homemade soup and sandwiches made with freshly baked bread. e Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has its own deli serving meals, snacks, salads, sandwiches, teas, coﬀees and desserts as well as beer and wine. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 111 Lake Louise Dr Lake Louise AB T0L 1E0 Canada www.fairmont.com/lake-louise

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BUSINESS

The Mysterious World of Pensions Maybe it’s because when you were sold a pension it was explained in gobbledygook, or maybe the mystery theme continued because the adviser that recommended the pension disappeared, never to be heard from again. Possibly it’s because the word pension itself causes a problem by subliminally making you feel like it is always something that is just for when you are older.

So why have pensions got a stigma in the thoughts of many people? Well it could be because pension rules change more often than I change my underpants.

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Maybe it’s because a pension plan is a talented creature and can be a master of disguise, if you have any of the following (to name but a few); you have actually got a pension.

ersonally, I don’t believe in ghosts, probably because I have never seen one. Lots of people have told me over the years that they don’t believe in pensions. Pensions are real, they do exist they are not pixies at the end of the garden, but are actually a worthwhile tax efficient way to save for your future.

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B US I N E S S What are the charges? (because there will be charges). If you can answer the above, you are probably already a client of ours. If you can’t you really need to come and have a coffee or a tea* (both provided free) with us to discuss your future and get a structured plan in place to achieve your dreams. *We also have water if you prefer that to coffee or tea, we are very accommodating.

I am sure the clever people who think up these weird and wonderful names would think of even more, but they have probably run out of new words. Now for some good news and some bad news. Good news – On average we are all living longer than we used to and this trend will continue (Yipeeee, maybe I will be alive long enough to see Liverpool win the premier league). Bad news – Many of us will not be able to afford to do the things we have dreamed of in retirement because the money we have set aside isn’t enough and has to pay out for more years than it used to (because we are living longer remember).

I set up Lloyd & Co Financial Planning as I believe dealing with people’s lives and futures is a very important matter. Our ethos is to invest time in our clients to make sure they get the most out of life. We genuinely do make a difference. After you have met with us you will understand your current provisions (such as existing investments, pensions and other assets) and you will be in the informed position of knowing if they are enough to achieve your goals. If they are not or if any improvements can be made, we can work together to get you there. If you do not have any goals set out (as is often the case) we can help get some ideas and targets in place.

C O TACT CON T TA TAC DE D TAI TA T LS

If you have documents stating you have some form of pension locked in a dusty box in your attic, or neatly organised and stored with your other important but hard to understand documents, can you answer the following questions.

Lloyd & Co. Financial Planning Ltd, 1st Floor Heritage House, 9b Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TE

When do I want to retire/be financially independent/reduce my hours, call it what you will.

Lloyd & Co. Financial Planning Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 548625

E Mail : info@lloydfp.co.uk

Tel : 01704 443107

How much income do I need to 1) survive and/or 2) live the life of my dreams? How much capital do I need to achieve the above and am I on target to achieve both? Where is my pension invested and how much investment risk am I taking?

David Lloyd

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We at Woodward Solicitors are delighted to be supporting the Exclusive series of magazines. “As a keen golfer I am delighted to be associated with Paul and the team, promoting some of the ﬁnest golf courses in the UK” – Tim Wood, Managing Director, Woodward Solicitors Woodward Solicitors Ltd was established in October 2011 by myself, Mr Tim Wood and Mr Kevin Ward (KWLC – legal cost negotiators). Initially a small team of 3 specialising in Personal Injury and Industrial Diseases, we have progressively grown within 4 years to be an eﬃcacious team of 40 professional, experienced specialists.

Have you ever had an insurance claim Rejected?

Have you ever had an insurance claim Rejected? Insurance coverage DIsputes

If you have had an insurance claim rejected within the last 6 years we can review the decision and advise whether you should take further action against your insurance company. We deal with all types of Insurance disputes arising from Household, Commercial property and Life and Personal Health. professIonal neglIgence

If you have reason to believe you have been let down by a professional, such as Doctor, Lawyer or Architect, it maybe possible to claim for the consequences of such mistakes.

Contact our Insurance Dispute Resolution Department e Insurance Dispute Resolution department is an exciting venture for Woodward Solicitors. Mr Peter Hall, specialises in this department which oﬀers our services to individuals or small to medium sized companies who have found themselves with the some what devastating consequences of having an insurance claim rejected. e department, on behalf of our client, works to resolve the dispute and I’m pleased to say, often with a successful outcome.

Tim Wood, Solicitor Managing Director Woodward’s (Personal Injury) Limited: T/A Woodward Solicitors is registered in England & Wales. Co No. 08108123 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority - SRA Number: 596505 Woodward Solicitors 14 e Parks Newton-le-Willows MerSeySide WA12 0JQ Phone: 01942 418198 Tel: 0845 340 0061 e-mail: enquiries@woodwardsolicitors.co.uk www.woodwardsolicitors.co.uk

Exclusive Golf sponsored By

ince joining the magazine I have been busy planning for next year and all involved are genuinely looking forward to the corporate events and golf days in our portfolio. ere has been a tremendous response to all our golf features within the magazine and we are talking to other golf courses in the North West as well as other featured courses further afield. If you would like your course to appear in the magazine, please contact us and we would be delighted to speak to you. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Tim Wood, Managing Director of Woodward Solicitors, for sponsoring the golf features and up and coming golf days. ere is a special mention to Cobra/Puma who will also be supporting all our events and continuing with their commitment to sponsor our rookie golfer Linda McGuire. As a sign of our commitment we recently sponsored an event at one of our featured courses, Great Yarmouth and Caister Golf Club, where we were delighted that Dave Boy Green MBE participated in the event and played with rookie golfer Linda, in what was her first golfing event. e event was for charity on behalf of the East Anglia Air Ambulance, where a cheque for over £3000 was handed over on behalf of the Old Hall Hotel, which again is featured in our golf and travel break section. We understand that having the right venue for entertaining clients, associates and employees is a critical and important component for a successful experience and why we will be adding more leading golf courses to our pool. Our team have over 30 years of experience in the golf leisure and travel business and are dedicated to delivering a high quality professional service to ensure we create a memorable event and experience for all. If you are planning a corporate golf event, or a society day out in 2016 we will be only too pleased to plan and organise every detail of your requirements. I am sure we will be able to offer the most competitive rates at any one of our selected courses in the North West. Please call Kevin Swindells, Director of Golf. e: k.swindells@golfandtravelbreaks.co.uk

www.golfandtravelbreaks.com

M: 07835 498777

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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AMAZING WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN YOUR ONLY GOAL IS TO BE THE BEST. Sometimes pushing harder against old boundaries simply will not do. So we looked to the stars for next generation innovation, and set out to build our best performing club ever. Period. See how we did it at cobragolf.co.uk/king.

#TAKETHETHRONE

Hesketh Golf Club

Hesketh, founded in 1885, is the oldest of Southport’s five golf clubs; although it was initially known as the Southport Golf Club. It is set amidst the towering Victorian villas of Southport’s premier residential area – Hesketh Park, it stands alone on the crest of a tall sandhill, with the eye catching clubhouse dominating the golf course, and the surrounding district.

Hesketh was established as a professional championship course in the 1930s and has acted as a qualifying course for the Open Championship. Most recently it has held the R&A Junior Open and the R&A Amateur Championship Qualifying Rounds. In 2018 it will cohost the English Men’s Amateur.

Hesketh has made a major impact on the world of golf over the years and in addition to being closely associated with the formation of the Lancashire Union of Golf Clubs, the initiative to form the English Golf Union originated at the Club and the first President of the EGU, Mr Rayner Batty, was a Hesketh member.

HesketH Golf Club

e Club has a distinguished record in competitive golf and its members have included the Bentley brothers, Harry and Arnold, whose joint success as amateur golfers is unlikely to ever be equalled. More recently European tour players Lee Slattery and Matthew Baldwin have been members of Hesketh.

ContaCt Details Cockle Dicks Lane Southport PR9 9QQ seCretary ’s offiCe

Course details : Par : 72 White : 6703 Yards

Yellow : 6239 Yards Tel : 01704 536897 (Ext 2) E Mail : Red : 5639 Yards (Par 74) secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk Clubhouse : Standing alone on the crest of a tall sand-hill, the clubhouse dominates the golf course and the surrounding district. Course : Professional golf has been played on these famous old links from the club’s earliest days. Pro Shop : Scott Astin runs a vibrant and professional outlet with an indoor state of the art simulator. Junior golf is encouraged at Hesketh where the Professional takes a hands on active part. Practice Area : A good practice area situated close to the clubhouse. Customer Service : Quite simply known as the friendliest golf club in Southport. Visitors regularly praise the staﬀ and members for the warm atmosphere that greets them. Stay & Play Packages : Stay and play packages available upon request.

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Preston Golf Club Often described as a ‘Lancashire Gem’ Preston Golf Club is more the ‘Jewel in the Crown’. e USGA specification greens are recognised as some of the finest in Lancashire and quite possibly in the North West Region. Once played never forgotten Preston welcomes visitors whether they be individual 4 balls, Societies or companies wishing to experience the ‘Fully Managed’ Corporate golf days the club oﬀers. Set in a secluded location the course provides over 120 acres of stunning, tranquil parkland with a mixture of undulating and relatively flat tree lined fairways either side of a stream meandering its way through the course. If the superb course is not enough of a draw, visitors are also able to fine tune their game in a golfing Academy that includes a 16 bay floodlit driving range, indoor or outdoor putting greens, short game practice areas all supported by a spacious, well stocked Pro shop. e complete golfing package also includes tuition available from qualified teaching professionals, with classes covering all ages and abilities. As a member of or visitor to Preston Golf Club you may rightly consider yourself part of one of the premier clubs in the North West of England. e club has several categories of membership, be it playing or just social, although numbers are restricted within each playing category to maintain exclusivity. Full details can be obtained from the club secretary

C o n taC t Details P r e s t o n Go l f C lu b

Course details :

Fu l w o o d Ha l l L a n e ,

White : 6278 Yards

Preston, Lancashire, PR2 8DD

Par : 71 Yellow : 5973 Yards Red : 5155 Yards

s e C r e ta r y ’ s o f f i C e

E Mail : stayandplay@prestongolfclub.com Telephone : 01772 700011 www.prestongolfclub.com Hospitality : Visitors and members alike can relax in our Bar and Lounge areas and enjoy the terrace overlooking the course. Function Rooms : e Presidents Suite and Fulwood Rooms are the ideal environment for your business meeting or function.

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Academy : Purpose built teaching academy linked to a 16-bay floodlit driving range. Practice : Indoor putting green and several short game practice areas all located around a spacious and well stocked Pro Shop. Corporate : Our dedicated team will ensure that your golf day runs smoothly and your guests have a memorable day. We can help organise every aspect of your day. Stay & Play Packages : One night, two round Packages from £85.00. Bespoke packages available on request. For more information regarding Stay & Play Golf Packages please Email : stayandplay@prestongolfclub.com and we will respond within 48 hours.

lancaster Golf Club Membership Full Membership is currently available.

ContaCt Details lanCaster Golf Club

Ashton Hall Ashton-with-stodday Lancaster Lancashire LA2 OAJ Telephone : 01524 751247 E Mail : enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk

Lancaster Golf Club is a hidden gem just 3 miles from the historic city of Lancaster. e home of Lancaster Golf Club is the grade 1 listed Ashton Hall which dates back to medieval times and has hosted kings of England in centuries gone by. It will impress even the most discerning visitor with its Gothic style architecture and superb setting, providing an unforgettable ambience. e golf course is situated in the old deer park and was designed by the legendary James Braid. e beautiful Lakeland mountains to the north and the rolling heather clad hills of the Trough of Bowland to the east form the backdrop to a most attractive, gently undulating parkland course on the Lune Estuary. e course is recognised as one of the best courses in the area. Corporate Membership Why not take out a corporate membership for your business and treat your valued customers to a round of golf and dinner in our impressive clubhouse. We have corporate memberships to suit all companies.

www.lancastergc.co.uk Facilities : Hospitality : e 19th Bar for socialising boasting a large HD flatscreen TV and a well-stocked club bar. ere is also an adjoining snooker room. Function Rooms : Ashton Suite accommodating up to 140 dining guests incorporating a polished dance floor. ere is also outside space available for functions in our courtyard, known as the e Green Court’. Pro Shop : Well Stocked Pro-Shop oﬀering a wide variety of equipment and clothing Practice : Golfing lessons are available. Ask for details in our Pro-Shop. Corporate : Our Ashton Suite is also perfect for corporate functions and our conference set-up board room can be used to provide additional space. Packages : We oﬀer a variety of golfing packages and full details of society visits can be obtained from the secretary.

Course Details : Par : 71 White : 6512 Yards Yellow : 6269 Yards Red : 5791 Yards

Dormy House We can accommodate up to 18 guests on residential golf packages. Packages include golf, accommodation and meals. All rooms are en-suite, guests have reserved tee times and dine in our “Fairway Restaurant” Visiting Parties A variety of packages including food are available for parties of 8 or more. Winter 2015

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Manchester Golf Club

Harry Shapland Colt designed this superb course which first opened to members in March 1912. Apart from relatively minor modifications the general layout of the course has remained much as Mr Colt originally designed it. Colt described the course as follows: ‘e general contour of the land is really delightful from a golfing point of view and resembles more the undulating character of a good seaside course than any other inland course that I have ever seen.’ Praise indeed from the architect who in designing the layout of the course made full use of the land’s stunning natural features. Set in over 240 acres or in metric terms one square kilometre the course is predominantly moorland in character but with heathland and parkland features, players who visit will find themselves surrounded by scenic, rural views of the Pennines. Host to the Lancashire Amateur Championship in 2011, the Northern Counties Championship in 2013 and the England Golf Captains in 2014, this is a course that is very well respected both in the local and wider golfing community. Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke both gained their European Tour cards following qualification at Hopwood. e Manchester Golf Club is a club where tradition is treasured but at the same time its forward looking and optimistic membership provides just about everything required to satisfy the modern day golfer. Visitors to the Club will no doubt take advantage of the fantastic practise and tuition facilities which include two short game areas, a driving range, a Golf Performance Centre and a Putting Lab or they might also like to make use of the golf club’s 3D flyover App which is installed on some of our buggy carts to help you navigate the course more easily. e same 3D flyover of the course can be found on our new website. www.mangc.co.uk. e Manchester Golf Club is a private members' club of quality and distinction and yet it is a club where members and visitors are welcome and alike can enjoy their golf and leisure time in a genuinely relaxed atmosphere. After a day out on the course the challenge of championship golf meets the warmth of a real Lancashire welcome which includes the provision of traditional

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local fayre and local beers in our bars and sitting rooms. All of the above is beautifully located just 20 minutes from City Centre Manchester and very close to major motorway links.

ContaCt Details ManCHester Golf Club

Hopwood Cottage Rochdale Road Middleton Manchester M24 6QP Tel : 0161 643 3202 E Mail : secretary@mangc.co.uk www.mangc.co.uk

Course details : Par : 72 White : 6491 Yards Yellow : 6246 Yards Red : 5696 Yards

Whilst you are in the area you might take advantage of a visit to one of the following local attractions: 1) e Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour. (30 minutes by car) 2) e Manchester City Etihad Stadium and Club Tour. (20 minutes by car) 3) City Centre Manchester - e beating heart of the region's business, culture and leisure oﬀer and home to leading museums, theatres, galleries, shops and restaurants. Vibrant day and nighttime activities. (20 minutes by car) 4) e Traﬀord Centre shopping mall with a fabulous selection of stores, 60 restaurants and cafes. (20 minutes by car) 5) Excellent location close to Manchester Airport (20 minutes by car) and major motorway links when visiting other parts of the region.

Worsley Golf Club Worsley Golf Club, was founded in 1894 and designed by the legendary James Braid, and is located just six miles west of Manchester amongst some of the most beautiful and scenic parkland in the region. e course is characterised by gently rolling fairways lined with an attractive blend of mature trees. Our team of professional green keepers take immense pride in ensuring the course is always presented in immaculate condition. In 1903 Harry Vardon the six times open champion played a 36 hole exhibition match against the then professional Alex Brown, and afterwards commented that 'on no other inland course could one find a better test of golf'. We like to think that is still true today! Visitors and Societies are most welcome and can enjoy a relaxing, yet challenging round of golf in a tranquil setting. Please look at the website for the online booking system – “Society Deals” and “Online Booking” or contact our PGA Professional Andrew Cory to check on available tee times on 0161 787 8723. e clubhouse oﬀers the perfect environment to unwind, with a wide choice of fine food and wines available from the bar, and a grandstand view of the 1st tee and 18th green from the balcony. Please contact Darren our Catering Manager on 0161 789 4202 (Option 2) for information about the rooms and facilities available for conferences, weddings and special events. Membership: 7, 6 & 5 day membership is currently available for all categories

Surefit Bag, and Ping Custom Fit, Custom Built Technology. With such a wide variety of products being tailored to your individual needs, we can be sure to get the right equipment for you, and get your game up to PAR Functions : Worsley Golf Club is the perfect setting for your wedding, christening or party celebration. Our beautiful black & white timbered period Club House will provide the perfect setting and we look forward to welcoming you on your special day. We will make it perfect for you! Packages : Worsley Golf Club extends a warm welcome to golfing societies with a minimum number of 12 players. Our friendly and professional staﬀ will endeavour to accommodate your needs.

ContaCt De ta i l s W o r s l e y G o l f C lu b Stableford Avenue Monton Green Eccles Manchester M30 8AP Telephone 0161 789 4202 (option 1) Email oﬃce@worsleygolfclub.co.uk www.worsleygolfclub.co.uk

Course details : Par : 71 White : 6235 Yards Yellow : 6039 Yards Red : 5348 Yards

Proshop : We stock all major brands at the lowest possible price and can even match any genuine price. Custom fitting options are also available free of charge using Callaway’s Optifit Bag, Titleist’s

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ashton Under lyne Golf Club Day membership however we have recently launched a new 3 day membership category that continues to prove extremely popular to new golfers.

C o n taC t D e tails asHton under lyne Golf Club Gorsey Way Ashton under Lyne Lancashire OL6 9HT E-Mail – secretary@ashtongolfclub.co.uk Telephone number – 0161 330 1537 www.ashtongolfclub.co.uk

Ashton under Lyne Golf Club Formed in 1913 is a wooded course nestling in the foothills of the Pennines on the edge of the Greater Manchester conurbation. Over the years great improvements have been made to the course; we have increased its length, added bunkers, improved tees and greens and planted many, many new trees. e club adopts a progressive approach to course management and development which has arguably elevated the course to being the best in the Tameside area. We are continually recognised by Lancashire having hosted multiple events over 2011,2012,2013,2014 & 2015 due to the quality of our course. We have a long standing reputation of producing some of the finest golfers in the area many of whom have represented Lancashire & England respectfully which also includes the current head Professional at Gleneagles, Andrew Jowett. Possibly the greatest success story is our very own European tour professional Matthew Nixon who remains aﬃliated to the club. Matthew Joined Ashton at the age of 4 progressing rapidly through the golfing ranks culminating in being crowned club champion at the age of 17 and lifting the British Boys amateur championship at Royal Aberdeen in 2006. Incredibly Matthew still finds time to compete in our annual Boxing Day club competition and is patron of our newly formed junior academy. Our clubhouse oﬀers all the usual facilities you would expect from an established club including exceptional views of our finishing signature hole aptly name ‘death or glory’ due to the large ravine that sits between the tee and green! We cater for all manner of occasions ranging from private dining through to weddings. Our function room is free to hire further details can be found on our club website.

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Societies – No society is too big or small (Further information can be obtained from our club secretary Steve Martin)

Course details : Par : 70 White : 6207 Yards

Pro shop – Colin Boyle has been Yellow : 5967 Yards with our club for in excess of 25 Red : 5564 Yards years with his son Michael Boyle joining him as joint club professional. e pro shop is stocked with all the latest equipment from all the leading brands. Michael has also taken up the role as the clubs teaching professional incorporating the latest swing technology in his methods. Social media Facebook - www.facebook.com/AULGC Twitter – www.Twitter.com/AULGC

GolfandtravelBreaks.com fs

G o lF & sPa BReaKs Old Hall Hotel & Great Yarmouth & Caister Links GC. e hotel is only 5 minutes from the course GOLF PACKAGES FROM JUST £69 pp Golf DBB 1 Night & 1 round DBB £69 (2 Rounds £80) 2 Nights & 1 round DBB £110 (2 Rounds £120) Sunday Night Special DBB 2 Rounds Only £75 pp All packages based on 2 people sharing. Longer stays and group rates available on request. All guests have full use of our leisure facilities and free parking. For All Enquiries

Tel : 01493 720 400

Email info@oldhallhotelcaister.co.uk www.oldhallhotelciaster.co.uk

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TOURING

Motorhome Touring

I look into my passenger side mirror and I see some chap and his bike jumping over the hedge to avoid my on-coming motor home. Luckily no damage to man or bike but a fair amount of fist waving and for the second time in 30 minutes me making apologetic gestures through the windscreen. Another 15 minutes and I’ve made it and I had to stop the van and speak to the lady in the Mini to apologise. Before I could say anything she just said all she was worried about was watching this van coming toward the bridge and hoping I had realised I wasn't going to make it.

t’s been a really great summer and I have been lucky enough to visit some wonderful places around the UK and meet some great people. It made me realise what an interesting bunch of people owners of motor homes are. ey are never short of a story, whether it be a new location or a spot of advice on something new to the market that make our travels more comfortable or safer. Something else that struck me and I feel sure a point that will be familiar to you all is the narrow escapes and mishaps we encounter on our journeys.

then thought ok you've now got to reverse back a mile along a road that was bad enough driving the right way. I have been driving motor homes for over 20 years but I still felt the butterflies and a slight feeling of apprehension and embarrassment as too my predicament. Anyway it has to be done so oﬀ I set growing with confidence with every yard gained and being pushed steadily on by the lady in the Mini. Everything is going fine until

I used to think that I was the only person with a motor home who had got myself into diﬃculties, possibly with parking or maybe finding myself down a road with nowhere to go. I had an experience near Lytham St Annes where after travelling for a mile down a road just about wide enough for the van I came across a bridge. Well, I suppose you get the picture, there either wasn't a sign or I missed it and yes my van isn't going under that bridge. To make matters worse there is a lady in her Mini with the kids coming the other way, waving frantically at me to stop. I made a sorry gesture through the windscreen and

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Winter 2015

Its wasn't the first and it won’t be the last experience that had my heart pounding a bit but what I have learnt this year on my travels is that my experiences are shared by you all and if you are new to the motor home family don't worry it happens to us all. Whether you are travelling to warmer climes for the winter or putting the van in storage I wish you all a very Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year.

Local Legend Opens New World Class Wirral Gym Dave Bolton, a former Merseyside police oﬃcer and world kickboxing champion has oﬃcially opened the doors to the gym of his dreams. Over the past 18 months Dave, 31, from Wirral, has defied all the odds as part of his ongoing battle with cancer and has been described by oncologists as “the ultimate inspiration”. And he has now launched the new Underground Training Station in Hoylake – a gym he has played a key role in helping to create. During the past year the father of two has under-gone two life-threatening operations on his brain and is continuing treatment with bouts of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Despite this, earlier this week, he was out running with his wife Samantha. Dave said: “I cannot wait to be back coaching at the UTS as soon as possible. “I may have cancer but cancer does not have me. e medics say one thing, I say another, and I believe I have another 12 years at least – I am a survivor and I will defy all medical odds!” Dave started coaching and personal training at the UTS earlier this year - joining the team after taking early retirement from the police force. He added: “My whole life has been about sport and exercise. My attitude to life has been forged by training and so being at the UTS is the perfect environment for me.” Dr Colin Robertson, Director at Underground Training Station, said: “Dave lives and breathes a positive, active and dedicated lifestyle, something which only became stronger when he was first diagnosed; when most people would crumble, Dave only became stronger and more determined; Dave is a warrior, and he is an absolute inspiration to everyone he meets.” Fellow UTS Director and England Rugby Union strength and conditioning coach Neil Parsley added: “Dave is a fantastic coach and a real motivator. We are honoured and

privileged to have him opening our new world-class facility and we cannot wait for him to be back coaching with us.” Tackling life head-on is nothing new for Dave who back in 2004 when he was told he would never walk again after a near fatal motorbike accident, not only walked again, but went on to take a Kickboxing World Champion title in 2009. In September this year, fellow coaches from the UTS, Stu Vance and Chris omas, drove to Paris and back in 24 hours doing 10 press ups and pull ups at each service station and landmark and raised more than £13,000 for Dave and his family to have a holiday of a lifetime once his treatment has finished. Dave describes UTS as “a gym like no other”, and added: “Underground Training Station is set apart from all other gyms. It has always been at the forefront of the industry – it really is world class. “Whether you just want to get fit, lose weight the healthy way and keep that weight oﬀ or you are training for your first marathon or want to recover from a sports injury, there really is no better place than the UTS. Whatever your goal may be, the team of coaches and tribe members at UTS will help you to get there! We pride ourselves on friendly motivational team spirit!” e UTS, which is sponsored by the performance clothing brand Under Armour, first opened its doors in December 2009 in Carham Road, Hoylake but as its popularity grew and its unparalleled name spread, the Directors were forced to look for newer and bigger premises and were lucky enough to find a suitable place just around the corner in Newhall Lane. e move has brought much more than an increase in space. e new facility has benefitted from more than £200,000 of investment on new kit and equipment – most of which are a first for a gym which caters for the general public. Further details about UTS are available by calling: 0151 632 6409 or by visiting:www.theuts.co.uk

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DAY AND NIGHT

LIVERPOOL’S NEW EXCLUSIVE GUIDE TO THE CITY

ith our days oﬀ so precious, we all want to make the most of them by being in the right place at the right time. Struggling to do this, a father and son duo decided to launch the new ’go-to’ app, Day & Night. Designed for visitors and residents who have no idea where to go or what to do, the app showcases the latest restaurants, bars, events and activities happening around the city in that exact moment. e app saves you from searching through listings of magazines and websites; giving you the freedom to be more spontaneous. Ever since launching on 27th October at e Old Blind School, Day & Night has been entertaining the people of Liverpool. With around 20 new activities being updated every day, all of the events featured aim to cater to all ages. e ingenuity of the new app is in the name; it showcases events happening both in the day and night time. e Director of Day & Night, Kevin Aitchinson, not only wants to help the public find something to do, he also hopes to increase the footfall into independent businesses around the city.

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DAY AND NIGHT

He says ‘I thought there needed to be an easier way to finding the perfect outing than scouring through pages on the internet, which not only wasted time but wasn’t very helpful. I want to make lives easier for everyone in Liverpool. I also hope to boost independent businesses of Liverpool by driving new custom through their doors.’ With most apps having a long log-in process and tricky functioning buttons, Day & Night is easily navigated. You find your way around the app by clicking on either the ‘day’ tab or ‘night’ tab before scrolling through the featured events to find your perfect destination. All activities have the relevant information attached, and if you're lucky, exclusive oﬀers and discounts can be found on certain features. Playground at the Hilton, one of the city’s most popular bars, became one of the first locations in Liverpool to combine their facilities with the app. Manager of Playground, Robert King, said: “As soon as we were introduced to the app, we thought it would be a great benefit to all involved; from businesses to customers, and even tourists looking for things to do in Liverpool” Day & Night is now available to download free at: appsto.re/gb/dN107 If you are a business interested in being featured, and would like to request a media brochure, please email info@dayandnightapp.co.uk.

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BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT V8

If speed, luxury and refinement define a true GT, then Bentleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive Continental GT V8 surpasses all expectations. Exclusive motoring writer Stephen Rome was suitably impressed after a week behind the wheel... 126

Winter 2015

Bentley

Wood, leather and lashings of chrome allied with speed, style and sophistication – discerning buyers know what they like in their luxury cars which goes in part to explaining the popularity of this sporting Bentley. ere was a time when ‘Gently Bentley’ was the essence of old school models driven by men of a certain age; that was then and this is now and there is nothing ‘gentle’ about this sporting thoroughbred which took a bow in the expanding Bentley range in 2014. It was so diﬀerent back in the sixties and seventies, Bentley’s T” playing second fiddle to their Rolls Royce counterparts. For a name with such a glorious sporting heritage, many thought the company was being short-changed and there was genuine sadness about the pastiche of some of its models and fear that the marque might be gently allowed to expire, its illustrious past all but forgotten... Bentley’s renaissance started back in the early 80’s, the new Mulsanne and Turbo R recalling those raﬃsh owners from the 20’s and 30’s whose insatiable quest for speed with style personified the brand – remember the Bentley Boys and their Le Mans glory days?

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Bentley And that revolution gathered pace in 2003 as the ’new’ Bentley – now owned by the VW Audi group – made its marque with the brutish 195 mph V12 Continental GT, the archetypal iron fist in a velvet glove which gave a new meaning to disciplined muscularity. Here was an authentic grand tourer which in one fell swoop revived the brand and all it stood for, opening ownership to a whole new class of discerning buyers; despite the sniﬀy response of some of the ‘old school’, there no denying that this one model massively changed perceptions of the Crewe company.

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in law as the press car arrived on a low loader from the factory? No matter, I was about to enjoy a week which I will devour for a long time to come and as the car – magnificently finished in bespoke Burnt Oak – left the low loader at just five miles an hour, I had a busy week planned...

Spool forward to the GT V8’s debut with the brute force of the V12 replaced by a twin turbo Audi power plant specially tuned for installation under the Bentley bonnet. At around £127,000 I soon discovered the car combines the best of both worlds, its British swagger not in the least overwhelmed by a German engine that actually adds to the sense of drama melding towering performance with the Conti’s enviable sporting luxury.

Do you remember meeting a VIP for the first time? You’ll appreciate my sense of trepidation before I took the Continental out for its first journey in and around Ormskirk. ose feelings were heightened as I slipped behind the wheel and completed the usual checks to (electrically ) adjust the seats, mirrors and steering wheel to perfection. e car’s bespoke cabin smells, feels and exudes a solidity that’s simply a world away from the mass produced machines of even so called ‘premier’ brands – does that sound a touch snobbish? It’s not meant to, but there is no other way in which I can convey the sense of well being and superiority when you take to the open road.

Did some neighbours think I had done way with the mother

Ah yes, the open road – the car’s raison d’être.

Winter 2015

Bentley It’s here the car is in its element – not too unwieldy despite its size and a gentle squeeze on the throttle producing an exhilarating response which is quite addictive. Its forte? No doubt about it, Continental GT is a perfect name for a four wheel drive machine car that'll hit 60 in five seconds or so and can easily travel at two and a half times the UK legal limit – but then again it’s called a 'Grand Tourer' for a reason and for those who want to indulge its performance credentials this car will be a natural for the continental tour. Comforting to know then that at the end of any journey long or small, any close encounters of second or third kind when too near other vehicles when parking is helped by park distance control. So, you’ll be interested in my humble verdict on such an imposing machine. Well, comic Eric Sykes once described Ken Dodd as ‘a Chippendale in world of MFI’ and in a way that’s an apt description for such a magnificent machine that's endeared itself to driving connoisseurs the world over...

Price: with options £161,205. test car supplied by Bentley PR department, Pyms lane, Crewe.

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Maserati Quat troporte

Maserati Quattroporte

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e was a former London bus driver – and one of our greatest balladeers. You know, Matt Munro’s sensual rendition of ‘On Days Like ese’ still sends a shiver down my spine as I mentally picture the fate of the Lamborghini Miura in the memorable cult classic, ‘e Italian Job’.

And it got me thinking - ever noticed how even the most mundane words sound so sensual in Italian? Flick through an Italian dictionary and you’ll see what I mean you really can savour even the most everyday words as they roll around your mouth...

Translated, the song’s languid opening lines mean literally: ‘On days like these, when it’s sunny and beautiful’ but ‘Questi giorni quando vieni il bel sole’ sounds so much better, don’t you agree?

And what the Italians do for language, they do for cars too; is there another four door grand tourer quite as sensual as Maserati’s Quattroporte, I wonder?

Winter 2015

Maserati Quat troporte Take time to read ‘And the revs keep rising’ by Mel Nichols and you’ll get a flavour of the car back in the eighties when it was still a pacesetter in the European prestige market, 20 or so years after its introduction as the original four door GT. Spool forward to 2015, and I discovered the latest iteration of the car - which can count among its rivals respected machines from Porsche, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes - offers both style and substance as a refreshing alternative to the marques which now dominate the UK luxury marketplace. Some might have scoffed a few years ago when it announced plans to target the UK with a new range of right hand drive models but so far its audacious strategy plan seems to be working with year on year sales in the ascendant, many of them conquests from the likes of Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar.

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Maserati Quat troporte

ere’s no denying that the Quattroporte is a good looking car with its muscular lines and instantly recognisable grille, but beauty is more than skin deep in this imposing four door super saloon which has a good deal more of the wow factor than the ‘usual suspects’ from Germany and the UK. Driven recently was the covetable diesel model; at a shade over £88,000, its base price of £69,000 was supplemented

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with almost £19,000 worth of desirable options showcasing how you can customise ‘your’ car. As with all luxury marques you get what you pay for which in the case of the Quattroporte is a compelling mix of heritage, style and the best of Italian workmanship in a reﬁned and beautifully crafted car which was ﬁnished in a delicate shade of Nero Ribelle.

Maserati Quat troporte

With the original Quattroporte in 1963 – a favourite of mine from the latter day ‘Observer Book of Cars’ – Maserati invented the concept of the luxury sports saloon and the new Quattroporte Diesel delivers sustainability and eco-friendliness into a package that its makers claim continues to set the benchmarks for high quality engineering, supercar performance and peerless comfort. e diesel model supplements the twin-turbo V6 and V8 power of the petrolengine variants with incredible range and the lowest fuel economy in the model’s history, its 3.0-litre, V6, turbocharged diesel engine delivering an official combined fuel economy figure of around 40mpg, making it by far the most economical Quattroporte. And yet it retains all the performance qualities of a Maserati, with a 0-62 time of only 6.4 seconds and a top speed of over 150mph. It’s all combined with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, wrapped up in a long wheelbase saloon with a balanced weight distribution and a sophisticated five-link rear suspension system. Inside it’s a world away from the ‘sterile’ interiors of competing German marques with dashes of inspiration from the instrumentation, leather seating and gorgeous colourways all lending the car a real sense of occasion for every journey. A busy test weekend saw the car pile on the miles with trips to Lancaster and around west Lancashire along with a memorable early morning dash to Harrogate where my 10-year-old nephew had a school run to die for... And my return trip via the A59 took me past the home of Northern Soul in Lancashire, Bowker’s new Maserati showroom with its Samlesbury garage now the county’s official dealer after being awarded the coveted franchise in 2014.

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BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad Bowker Motorrad Customs Way Preston Lancashire PR2 2UW Tel : 01772 767300 www.bowkermotorrad.com

A Preston car dealer has expanded to sell motorbikes at its Docklands headquarters. Bowker opened its BMW Motorrad motorcycle dealership after acquiring Southport Superbikes last year. A 13,000 square foot showroom is now the home to more than 40 bikes and takes the Bowker dealership to six acres at Preston Docks. Chief executive Paul Bowker said: “e building is seen by thousands of Prestonians every day and has a massive impact on the landmark Preston site.” Ten full-time jobs have been created as part of the new showroom. Bowker Motorrad head of business Geraldine Bowers-Lyon said: “It’s good news for North West motorcycle enthusiasts too. We have opened one of the most modern dealerships in the country which oﬀers even more support, choice and inspiration for old and new motorcycling adventurers in the region.”

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Summerwood Gardens A NEW BROADLEY’S DEVELOPMENT

SUMMERWOOD LANE, HALSALL, L39 8AA

This unique development of 14 3 bedroomed semi-detached houses situated in Halsall combines a prime residential location with an idyllic rural aspect. The properties are finished to a very high specification with many features included as standard.

Viewing is essential to appreciate the size and quality of these stunning new homes.

£239,000 PRICES STARTING FROM

SHOWHOUSE NOW OPEN 10am - 5pm For further information please call Barbara on 07715 439993.

www.broadleydevelopments.co.uk

Lot tErY WINNErS

Monumental Millionaire Milestone The National Lottery marks the creation of 4000 lottery millionaires in unique style

ottery winners from across the North West celebrated in unique style with a Champagne Millionaire Picnic With A Twist - on the day e National Lottery announced it has now created 4,000 millionaires. Records show 4,000 winners, worth more than £11.5 billion, have joined the lucky lottery millionaires club since 1994 – with an average of six new millionaires created every week. e National Lottery has helped to create 461 millionaires in the North West. 136

Winter 2015

e North West winners, who are worth more than £52m combined, gathered at Inglewood Manor in Wirral hoping to spread some of their good luck and fortune to others. Among the winners celebrating this important milestone were: Brian Caswell, from Bolton, who won £24,951,269 on EuroMillions in 2009; Sharon Mather, from Hale in Cheshire, who won £12.4m on EuroMillions in 2010; Denise Scarr, from Morecambe, who won £6.3m on Lotto in April this year; Tony Dodd, from Wallasey in Wirral, who won £2.4m on Lotto in 2007; Ben Woods, from Raby in

Lot tErY WINNErS Ben and Leanne Woods

“Whether they believed in luck or fate and no matter how they have spent their winnings, each winner followed the same path; they simply bought a ticket and joined the lottery millionaires club as a result. e National Lottery is creating more millionaires than ever before and we can’t wait to see how many more winners in the North West join the evergrowing club.” Alongside the thousands of millionaires created so far, e National Lottery has also made a huge diﬀerence to communities across the UK. Players have so far raised £34 billion for Good Causes, benefitting more than 450,000 individual projects. Sharon Mather with our champagne dress model

Wirral, who won £2.4m on Lotto in 2004; Sean Lloyd, from Tameside, who won £1.8m on Lotto in January this year; Kelly Massey, who won £1m on EuroMillions in 2013 and Ruth Breen, from Wigan, who won £1m on EuroMillions in July last year. Brian said: “It is fantastic that the National Lottery is celebrating creating 4,000 millionaires this year – this is an amazing milestone. “e lottery changes the lives of so many people – not just the people who have won but their families and close friends too – in addition to all of the charities and good causes across the region which also benefit as a result of people playing. “Playing the lottery really does make dreams come true.” A National Lottery spokesperson added: “We are absolutely delighted to have reached this exciting milestone. It’s incredible to think that there have been 4,000 players that have become a millionaire thanks to a life-changing lottery win. Winter 2015

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CINEMa

Upcoming Film Releases by Becky Hayes

T H e 5 T H Wave

KUNg FU PaNda 3

ZooLaNdeR 2

Ja N ua r Y 1 5 t h

Ja N uarY 29th

FEBruarY 12th

Based on the best-selling novel by Rick Yancey, e 5th Wave tells the story of an alien invasion, but unlike you've ever seen it before. e main character of the story is teenager Cassie Sullivan (portrayed in the film by Chloë Grace Moretz).

Kung Fu Panda 3 is DreamWorks' third instalment to their brilliantly animated series. Jack Black returns to voice the loveable panda, Po. e allstar cast also includes Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoﬀman, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross and Kate Hudson. After finally reuniting with his biological father, Po returns to his birthplace and meets more of his kind. However, when an evil spirit begins to steal the powers of kung fu masters, Po must help to train his fellow pandas in order to defeat the spirit and save China. is will definitely be a film for all the family to enjoy.

Zoolander 2 has certainly been a long time in the making, with the first film hitting our screens way back in 2001. Ben Stiller returns to both direct the film and play the part of Derek Zoolander. e film is also set to star Owen Wilson, Kristen Wiig and Penélope Cruz.

e world has been left in ruin after alien-beings (the Others) invade and wipe out millions of the Earth's population. e few people who remain have a hard time trusting anyone, and Cassie is no exception. Her only goal in this harsh new world is to keep her younger brother safe, so when he is taken away from her by soldiers, Cassie's whole life goes into turmoil and we witness her determination and desperation to get him back.

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e film is set 10 years after the events of the first film, and is based around how Hansel (Owen Wilson) and Derek's lives have now changed. Although not much more is known about the plot, you can be sure that the same amount of humour will be present as in the first film. ough we'll have to wait and see if Blue Steel makes a comeback!

CINEMa

e nights may have gotten darker but your nearest cinema has plenty of action and adventure to brighten up your screens!

Lo N d o N H as FaLLeN MarCh 4th

London Has Fallen is an upcoming action film and sequel to the 2013 film Olympus Has Fallen. e film is set to star Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Aaron Eckhart and Charlotte Riley. In a similar plot to the first film, an assassination attempt during a Western world leaders event causes panic and chaos. Secret Service leader Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) must fight in order to save himself and everyone else trapped in the middle of a larger and much more sinister plan. London Has Fallen is definitely going to be one for the action-lovers; full of non-stop suspense, gun-fights and daring heroics.

THe diveRgeNT seRies: aLLegiaNT M a r C h 18th

BaTMaN vs sUPeRMaN: daWN oF JUsTice MarCh 25th

Allegiant is the second to last film in the Divergent series, based on the trilogy of novels by Veronica Roth. If the films continue to stick to the book's original plot, then followers of the franchise will certainly be needing their tissues at the ready! Allegiant is set to oﬀer a lot more information than its predecessors, explaining to the audience in greater depth about divergents and what their purpose truly is. Tris and Four must go on a journey outside the city borders to help find answers to the ongoing corruption and segregation of their world. ose who have followed the series from the beginning will certainly not want to miss this film.

Winter 2015

Highly anticipated, the next superhero film to hit our screens will see Batman (Ben Aﬄeck) and Superman (Henry Cavill) battle against one another for the first time on the big screen. e film is also set to include Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman and Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth. It is clear from the trailer that it is Bruce Wayne who decides to challenge Superman as he fears that he may pose a threat to mankind in the future. Batman's suit has been upgraded to say the least, looking extremely strong and bulky - but will it stand up well against the Man of Steel himself? Although set to battle one another in the film, many suspect that the two heroes will later team up in order to fight a greater and more deadly threat together. 139

new year resolutions B r e n r i l e y, o w n e r o f c o m e dy p r o d u c t i o n c o m pa n y, B i g c o m e dy uK and organiser of the southport c o m e dy f e s t i va l .

How will you be spending New Year's Eve? On New Year’s Eve I will be gigging in Lutterworth of all places, but will be spending the rest of New Year in the Lake District with my family. I have spent pretty much every New Year for the last 15 years in my car on the way back from a gig. It’s quite cool travelling down the motorway with fireworks going oﬀ all over the place. What was your highlight of 2015? e Southport Comedy Festival was massive this year, it takes pretty much all year for my wife, Val, and I to plan but it feels great to see the crowds fill the venues. We launched the Children’s Comedy Festival this year with the support of the Southport BID plus my comedy production company Big Comedy UK is really expanding and it has been great to work with MJ’s in Formby on brand new projects. What are your plans for the business in 2016? I have a couple of plans that I want to work on in 2016 but I don’t like to talk about them until they are oﬀ the ground. e main things we have to do in 2016 is carry on with our existing projects, like the Liverpool Comedy Cellar at e Magnet which runs every Saturday night and keep expanding Big Comedy UK. What are your New Year's Resolutions? My New Year’s resolution will be to try and get out on my mountain bike more, I don’t exercise enough. I’m not sure how long it will last but I will give it a go.

claire simmo - radio city presenter

How will you be spending New Year's Eve? I don't generally go out on New Year's Eve with being a single mum and having two kids so it's normally a quiet one with a family meal at my mum's house. Although my brother and his partner bought a house this year so I'm going to try and badger them into having a house party so then I can take the kids! What was your highlight of 2015? My personal highlight was taking the kids to Disneyland in Paris. It was a surprise and I didn't tell them until we got to the airport. It was just magical. Another highlight was being asked to be in pantomime in Aladdin in my home town at the Southport eatre; even though my children are mortified to see my face plastered on billboards everywhere! ere are so many highlights through hosting events For Radio City Cash for Kids and various other charities. I have also been made an ambassador the James Bulger Memorial Trust and Fazakerley 9 charity which is a great honour and I am looking forward to working with them. What are your plans for 2016? There are so many exciting changes to come to Radio City in 2016 with the launch of 4 radio stations from the tower and it is just going to grow and grow. It's always a highlight performing with my daughter Melodie in pantomime and in the last year we have done the Wizard of Oz and Sleeping Beauty together in St Helens. I've just signed up to play Tinkerbell at Easter too so I'm really excited about that! My son Michael will be turning 13 in April so my resolution is to never let him out the house again! What are your New Year's Resolutions? Every year I try to make a resolution to make time for me and that never happens ... I have always lived by the rule that you should enjoy every moment and live each day to the full and appreciate everything you have and the people around you. at's a permanent resolution of mine!

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new year resolutions pau l a da m s , o w n e r o f t h e v i n c e n t h o t e l , s o u t h p o r t, a n d v i n c e n t c a fe and co c K ta i l B a r , l i v e r p o o l .

How will you be spending New Year's Eve? I will spending New Year's Eve between our Vincent Hotel Southport and our new Vincent Café & Cocktail Bar in Liverpool. I will be in Liverpool at midnight because it’s our first New Year. We have created something really special there with such fantastic ambience and food. Since opening in June we have received amazing support from the great people of Liverpool and I’m really looking forward to a fabulous night. What was your highlight of 2015? My biggest highlight in 2015 was opening the Vincent Liverpool. I am really pleased how the design, look and feel of the Café has turned out and the team are doing a great job taking care of our customers. It’s been a great achievement for us all and one I am extremely proud of. What are your plans for the business in 2016? We are busy looking for another site for our next Vincent Café & Cocktail Bar, anywhere between Manchester/Cheshire or even further afield, I am quite open minded. We also have a very exciting fast food concept which will have a strong emphasis on responsibly sourced ingredients and robust Asian flavours we hope to roll that out to multiple locations with the fist opening earmarked for next year – hopefully I will be in a position to share further details in the New Year when the time is right. What are your New Year's Resolutions? My resolutions are like every year - eat more healthily, exercise more and drink less wine - I usually stick to them until about February if I’m lucky!

carl Bell, general manager at the BrinK, parr street, liverpool

How will you be spending New Year's Eve? I will be spending New Year’s Eve with my partner Danielle Gough, I don’t know where we are going as she usually surprises me with tickets for an event at which we can dance as we both love it. What has been your highlight of 2015? My personal highlight for this year was going to Egypt for 2 weeks with aforementioned Danielle. My work highlight was the fantastic Merseyside Recovery Awards at e Brink Café this summer. What are your plans for 2016? Business plans for 2016 include trying to help more people personally and in work. Also workwise we are looking forward to hosting weddings and our new chef will be producing another outstanding new menu in the new year. What are your New Year's Resolutions? I have made numerous New Year’s resolutions in the past and never stuck to them. I do make resolutions but can make them whenever I am capable of fulfilling them. is year I have stopped caﬀeine and fizzy drinks with many health benefits from that decision. Winter 2015

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new year resolutions at t i l i o s er g i , r e s tau r at e u r , t r at toria 5 1 , p r o m e na d e , s o u t h p o r t, a n d old h a l l s t r e e t, l i v e r p o o l

How will you be spending New Year's Eve? I will be spending New Year’s Eve at our Southport venue to entertain around 90 guests. December 31 is always a great night at Trattoria 51 and we’re sure this year will be no exception. I’m looking forward to counting down to midnight with our customers and a glass of our famous fizz in hand. What has been your highlight of 2015? 2015 has been a great year, both for Trattoria 51 and for myself. In terms of the business, both of our venues at Southport Promenade and on Liverpool’s Old Hall Street have experienced a 30% growth. It’s wonderful that more and more customers are coming to enjoy what the restaurants have to oﬀer. Earlier this year, I took part in the Southport Comedy Festival for the second year running to perform my own stand-up comedy routine – the evening was a lot of fun for everyone involved and there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. What are your plans for 2016? I look forward to the business continuing to grow well in to next year. We are going to continue with the same two establishments but we will be putting a lot more focus on the customer; finding out what it is that they’re looking for from an eatery and exceeding their expectations. We will also be regularly updating our menus to ensure that we keep our dishes fresh and contemporary.

enda rylands, general manager of ramada plaza, southport

How will you spend New Year's Eve? I normally spend the first part of my evening at work and this year will be the same. I will start the day in the hotel at 7am ensuring that breakfast service goes well, getting the day oﬀ to a good start for everyone, and then I will check the plans for the evening's celebrations! We have over 200 guests in the hotel for the evening so our Gala Dinner needs to be perfect. We want everyone to have a great time. I will stay till about 10pm and then join friends and family at a house party to ring in the New Year. What was your highlight of 2015?

What are your New Year's Resolutions? Last year, I gave up smoking and I’m so proud of myself for it. After successfully sticking to my New Year's Resolution it felt only right to set myself another challenging goal. is year, I plan to further improve my fitness by continuing my morning hour long cycles around Halsall country lanes and Clieves Hill, whilst also eating well.

One of the highlights for the right reasons was taking my eldest daughter to University, I am incredibly proud of her and seeing her begin to make her own way in life is amazing. I will miss her greatly but that is what life is about. What are your plans for the business in 2016? We are really looking forward to the year ahead and early indications are that it could be a really good year. ere is positive business committed to and that is very encouraging. ere are some really exciting things happening in Southport that we are pleased to be a part of and we're looking forward to a busy year. What are your New Year's Resolutions? I don't really make New Year's Resolutions - they're just not for me. I'd just like to have lots of happy times with my four children and my wife, while making sure everything goes really well at work. I'm looking forward to 2016 and what it might bring.

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late night thirsty

Dynamic new chat show Late Night Thirsty to launch in Liverpool

ew television show Late Night irsty, also known as LNT, is set to bring a new television concept to Liverpool. e show is the brainchild of Londoners Kriss and Abel, who recently moved to Liverpool to co-present the show alongside fellow host, prominent model and business woman Layla Flaherty. Late Night irsty aims to be unique and fearless, addressing current and controversial topics in an engaging way. Interactive elements will be a key feature of the show, with guests having the chance to complete a hover board assault course in the studio. “With Late Night irsty we wanted to create something that viewers haven’t seen before, a show which is fresh, relevant and insightful with just the right amount of fun thrown in” says presenter Kriss. Long-term friends Abel and Kriss envisioned the concept of Late Night

irsty after they realised there was no talk show on television which they enjoyed watching themselves. “Late Night irsty will break the mould by being something completely new with a hint of controversy thrown in” says Abel. LNT will provoke and entertain, with viewers able to interact on social media by posing their own interview questions to the guests who will hail from the sporting, fashion, political and celebrity worlds. e show will address news stories and political topics, keeping its finger on the pulse of current issues by engaging with its audience. A mixture of celebrity gossip, features and interviews will keep LNT relevant. “We are hugely excited to introduce Late Night irsty to Liverpool, we aim to be a show with a diﬀerence delivering a style of chat show which has not been seen before” said Kriss. Winter 2015

Layla Flaherty will draw on her background as a model and reality television star whilst presenting the show “I am delighted to be a part of this inspiring new concept, we want to be the show everyone is talking about. I am fascinated by what makes people tick and my degree in Psychology will contribute to my focused interview style. I look forward to showing people the real me” said Layla. e short and snappy format of Late Night irsty will reinvent the formal style of traditional talk shows, oﬀering a diverse blend of fun content and thought-provoking topics. “We look forward to welcoming a varied mixture of guests from all walks of life to the LNT studio” said Kriss. Late Night irsty promises to be the hottest show in Liverpool and the show will also cover what is on in the area, giving viewers an overview of nightlife, dining out, culture and the Arts in the city. 143

charity

Get on Your Bike for Region’s Top Cycling Event

addle up for the region’s top cycling event which will see thousands of bikes sweep through picturesque Wirral en-route from Liverpool to Chester.

Event organisers Pennine Events are expecting that 2016 will be the biggest yet with more than 4,000 people expected to take part and the ride will be in aid of local hospice Claire House which returns as the chosen charity for the 5th consecutive year. So it’s all for a good cause and the Liverpool – Chester – Liverpool bike ride is now returning for its 23rd year and this unique event has courses aimed at all age groups and all cycling abilities. Keen cyclists, thrill seekers and fun lovers are being encouraged to sign up early for the ride which is sure to be hugely popular just like past years. Last year, the generosity of cyclists raised more than £31,000 for Claire House Childrens Hospice, which provides care to children with a terminal illness and support to their families. Each participant can choose their own route ranging from a Five Mile Family Tunnel to the 100 Mile Liverpool Challenge, with each route taking in some of the North West’s top attractions and picturesque landscapes. 144

Winter 2015

Mandy Parkinson at Pennine Events, said: “If anyone is looking for an excuse to dust off your bike and get back in the saddle then this is the time to do it. We are delighted to also introduce our Wiggle North Series: Along e Border ; which will be held on 28th February and is the perfect opportunity to kick-start your training for Liverpool Chester Liverpool Bike Ride 2016 by spending the day cycling the Cheshire and Welsh countryside (over 49 or 62 miles) – what better way to shake of the winter cobwebs! “Cycling is such a fantastic sport to take part in. Not only is it a great form of exercise but also very sociable too and a great way of meeting new friends. We look forward to welcoming all new and returning cyclists next year.” Places for the event, which will take place on Sunday July 3rd next year, are already being booked so to avoid disappointment, organisers are advising people to sign up now and take full advantage of the Early Bird offers currently available. ey are offering a 14 % discount on entry fees until the end of 2015. For more information, including how to book a place, please visit www.liverpoolchesterliverpool.com

Family fun from November – January

WINTER at the Dock

WEEKENDS FROM 28 NOVEMBER TO 20 DECEMBER, 12-4PM

Christmas Weekends at Albert Dock Enjoy One Magical Christmas at the Dock with a host of FREE family fun including traditional choirs, colourful street theatre, roasted chestnuts & a visit from Santa’s reindeer.

THROUGHOUT THE SEASON

20 NOVEMBER-14 FEBRUARY

Merseyside Maritime Museum Free Family Festive Fun

Tate Liverpool Works to Know by Heart

Offering an exciting range of FREE craft workshops, pop in to see what’s on.

A rare opportunity to see one of the most famous modern artworks of the twentieth century - Henri Matisse’s The Snail.

NOVEMBER - FEBRUARY

Albert Dock Starvros Returns The Tall Ship Stavros S Niarchos will be at the Dock all winter festooned with lighting as a unique spectacle for all to see. 7 NOVEMBER 17 JANUARY 2016

UNTIL 24 APRIL 2016

International Slavery Museum Broken Lives: Slavery in modern India A powerful and moving exhibition revealing stories of hardship, survival and hope. 10 DECEMBER 2015 1-4PM Join us to celebrate Human Rights Day with craft and musical performance.

Experience

Albert Dock Liverpool Remembers Trail While on the Liverpool Remembers Trail at Albert Dock take a moment to reflect and remember.

25 NOVEMBER TO 19 JUNE 2016

Merseyside Maritime Museum On the Waterfront Explore the rich history of the Albert Dock and 300 years of the changing fortunes of the waterfront, the city and port of Liverpool up to the present day. THROUGHOUT DECEMBER 1-4PM

International Slavery Museum Free Family Workshops Enjoy making festival craft creations at FREE family workshops. THROUGHOUT JANUARY 2016

Albert Dock January Offers & Events Look out for special offers and events including restaurant promotions and gift offers and FREE entry at key attractions.

SEE WEBSITE for all the latest events & offers

Ringing in the new year The best places in the North West to celebrate New Year's Eve, words by Simon Grant

New Year's Eve is all about waving farewell to the year that was and ushering in a fresh new calendar year full of promise. To help you see out the year in style, we've compiled an Exclusive selection of the some of the best places in the North West to celebrate NYE 2015. T h E Wa r E h o u S E P r o j E c T, M a N c h ESTEr

ThE coMEdY STorE, MaNchESTEr

Legendary dance club WHP's hotly anticipated New Years Eve bash takes a nostalgic look back at the year that's just gone by bringing back 2015 crowd-pleasing headliners MK and Hannah Wants, as well as the crème de la crème of usual residents for you to dance the year away. www.thewarehouseproject.com

Laugh in the New Year with some high class humour at Manchester's Comedy store. A bumper New Year's Eve lineup of comics includes local laughter merchant Justin Moorhouse, alongside Mick Ferry, Tom Wrigglesworth, e Noise Next Door and e Boy With Tape On His Face. www.thecomedystore.co.uk

c i r c o, L i v E r P o o L

oddfELLoWS, chESTEr

Circo brings the glitz and glam of Las Vegas to the Albert Dock with their unique NYE freak show. eir circus themed cabaret show features traditional through to truly bizarre performances, as well as some of Liverpool’s Top DJs. Just remember: what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas! www.circoliverpool.com

Chester's most characterful and sophisticated bar Oddfellows is ringing in the new year with saxophonist DaxOnSax, DJ Gary Carr and a welcome glass of fizz. Why not stay over with their NYE package, which includes private room, champagne and canapés, four mouthwatering courses and a host of wines. www.oddfellowschester.com

S Pa h o T E L aT r i b b Y h a L L v i L L aG E , b L ac k P o o L

ThE cavErN cLub, LivErPooL

Why not begin 2016 as you mean to go on with some pampering? Ribby Hall oﬀers a luxurious two-night Spa Break (including a black tie and cocktail dress dinner), a New Year's Eve Sleepover or a two-night New Year ReEnergiser for a deservedly self-indulgent start to your new year. www.ribbyhall.co.uk 146

Winter 2015

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the most famous club in the world in the company of some of their finest resident artists. It promises to be a Beatles 60s party in the place where it all began, with two bands and a solo artist playing over two stages throughout the night. www.cavernclub.org

Th E M i LT o N c Lu b , M a N c h E S T E r

ThE oaST houSE, MaNchESTEr

Fire breathers and showgirls anyone? Head to e Milton Club for some glitzy year-end celebrations. Strut the red carpet and strike a pose for the waiting in-house photographer and if you're among the first 200 guests you'll receive a complimentary glass of fizz to kick oﬀ your evening in style. www.themiltonclub.co.uk

For a refreshingly diﬀerent NYE experience, head to e Oast House in Spinningfields as they wrap up their winter festival with their 'world famous' courtyard party. Did we mention that it all takes place inside a giant teepee, complete with roaring open fire and grab-me blankets? www.theoasthouse.uk.com

fo r M b Y h a L L G o L f r E S o r T & S Pa , f orMbY

cruiSE, chESTEr

is hugely popular black tie event begins with a glass of champagne and canapés to set the scene of what will be a fabulous, elegant and fun filled New Year. e five-course Gala Dinner includes live entertainment from a Michael Buble tribute, DJ and dancing until the early hours. www.formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

Chester's premier nightclub Cruise is planning a Bondthemed NYE with plenty of licence to thrill. eir six stylish floors will be transformed into some of 007's most glamorous global locations and the Belvedere Martini Bar will serve the best cocktails around – shaken, not stirred of course. www.cruisechester.com¬

Lau G h T E r h o u S E L i v E , L i v E r P o o L

Luaghterhouse Live will be cramming in some of the most sidesplitting comedians ‘from the North-West to the North Pole’ at the Slaughterhouse this New Year's Eve. Headliner Daliso Chapondo is set to be joined by Peep Show and Phoenix Nights star Neil Fitzmaurice, Steve Harris and Chris Cairns. www.laughterhousecomedy.com

ThE aLP iNE baLL, TaT ToN Park

Dress to impress as you enter the chic world of diamonds and elegance of an exclusive Alpine ski resort. From the champagne reception to the pre-dinner live entertainment, soak up the luxurious surroundings before the ‘grand reveal’ leads you to a sumptuous five-course gala dinner and a night of pure entertainment. www.jdparties.co.uk

Winter 2015

147

WhaT ’S oN

What ' s O n ?

Uptown Funk romped to number one on the UK iTunes Store chart.

Winter events across the North West Your Exclusive guide to the best comedy, music, theatre and family activities across the North West throughout the Winter months.

LivErPooL R a D I O C ItY C h R I s t Mas LIVE 9 dEcEMbEr E c h o a r E Na

Radio City are back for a starstudded Christmas party. Some of the hottest names in pop will grace the stage, including Olly Murs, Drum and Bass duo Sigma, and X Factor favourites Ben Haenow and Fleur East – whose rendition of 148

DURan DURan 1 2 dEcEMbEr E c h o arENa

Duran Duran are one of the most influential and successful bands of all time, topping charts around the world for the past three decades and selling more than 100 million records worldwide. Now Simon Le Bon et al are back on tour to perform tracks from new album Paper Gods, as well as smash hits like Girls on Film and Rio.

LaUGhtERhOUsE LIVE 1 3 dEcEMbEr r oYaL LivErPooL P h i LharMoNic

With seven of the world’s greatest stand-ups on one stage, this stellar

Winter 2015

night of comedy is sure to be a laughter riot. Headlined by Irish comedy sensation Tommy Tiernan, the show also features Canadian comic Katherine Ryan, Paul Sinha, Gary Delaney, Jason Cook, Jarred Christmas and local favourite Neil Fitzmaurice.

thE EQUEstRIan . C O M LIVERPOOL IntERnatIOnaL hORsE shOW 1-3 jaNuarY Echo arENa

e Sporting and Olympic New Year starts with a brand new, world class sporting event at the Echo Arena. e Equestrian.com Liverpool International Horse Show combines top class show jumping with fabulous entertainment, from a spectacular display by six shire horses to a musical performance by the Bootleg Beatles.

WhaT ’S oN

hOZIER 12 ja N ua r Y Li v E r P o o L E M P i r E

Hozier's star continues to rise following a coveted Ivor Novello Award, a headline performance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury in the summer of 2015, and a critically acclaimed debut album that's soon to hit double Platinum status. Catch the 25-year-old Wicklow native at the Liverpool Empire for one night only.

th E R O C K Y h O R R O R s hOW 1- 6 f E b r ua r Y Li v E r P o o L E M P i r E

Following over 40 years of worldwide productions, Richard O'Brien's Rocky Horror Show is a non-stop party starring Diana Vickers as Janet, Ben Freeman as Brad, Paul Cattermole as Eddie and Dr Scott, and Kristian Lavercombe

as Riﬀ Raﬀ. Get your fishnets on for this fun-filled (and rude!) adventure into outrageousness.

stRICtLY COME DanCInG 2016 2 f E b r uarY E c h o arENa

It’s time to dust oﬀ the glitterballs and polish the judges’ paddles because the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour is back! Len Goodman, Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and all your favourite celebrities and professional dancers take to the supersized ballroom floor in the hope of lifting the famous glitterball trophy.

Mat thEW BOURnE's sLEEP InG BEaUtY 1 6 - 2 0 fEbruarY L i v E r PooL EMP irE

Sleeping Beauty sees Matthew

Winter 2015

Bourne return to the music of Tchaikovsky to complete the trio of ballet masterworks that started with Nutcracker! and the international smash hit, Swan Lake. Bourne’s haunting new production is a Gothic Romance for all ages; a supernatural love story that even the passage of time cannot hinder.

LEOna LEWIs 21 fEbruarY LivErPooL EMP irE

Following the release of her new album I Am, Leona Lewis embarks on her first UK tour in three years. With an incredible voice that's captivated millions of people and seen countless sales records smashed, Leona performs new tracks, as well as huge hits like Bleeding Love, Run and Better In Time. 149

WhaT ’S oN

MaNchESTEr C I n D E R E LLa 5 d E c E M b E r T o 3 ja N ua r Y oPEra houSE

National treasures Torvill and Dean make their pantomime debuts as the Fairy Godparents in the most magical pantomime of all: Cinderella. e classic rags to riches tale is transformed into a breathtaking family extravaganza with glittering sets, gorgeous costumes, big song and dance numbers, Shetland ponies (really!) and jaw-dropping skating sequences.

t h E B O DYGUaRD 8 d E c E M b E r T o 9 ja N ua r Y Pa L ac E T h E aT r E

e Bodyguard, the award-winning musical based on the blockbuster film, stars three-time Brit nominee 150

and X Factor winner, Alexandra Burke (and understudy Zoe Birkett) in the lead role of Rachel Marron. is romantic thriller features Whitney Houston megahits including One Moment in Time, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and I Will Always Love You.

KEVIn haRt 20 jaNuarY MaNchESTEr arENa

Superstar entertainer, actor and comedian Kevin Hart makes his debut appearance at Manchester Arena, as part of his What Now? Tour. Hart's only performance outside of London sees the Get Hard star return to his stand-up roots to unleash his high-paced brand of humour.

MaD Onna 1 4 dEcEMbEr M a NchESTEr arENa

e all-conquering Madonna returns to Manchester Arena for her only show in the North of England, as part of her 2015 Rebel Heart World Tour. Rebel Heart is Madonna’s thirteenth studio album and just goes to show that the evergreen Material Girl still knows how to get the crowd Into the Groove. Winter 2015

JasOn DERULO 4 fEbruarY MaNchESTEr arENa

R&B sensation Jason Derulo returns to Manchester Arena, for the first time in four years, with his biggest UK arena tour to date. Derulo notched up his fourth UK number one with Want To Want Me and has established himself as one of the world’s biggest pop stars having sold over 50 million singles worldwide.

M a R Y P O P P Ins 20 ja N ua r Y T o 5 M a r c h Pa L ac E T h E aT r E

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh are taking their multi awardwinning musical Mary Poppins on a tour of the UK and Ireland. e magical story of the world’s favourite nanny has been spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible eﬀects and unforgettable songs. It's sure to be a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious experience!

th E L I B E R tInEs 23 ja N ua r Y M a N c h E S T E r a r E Na

Fronted by ne'er-do-well frontman Pete Doherty, e Libertines make their Manchester Arena bow early in the New Year, as part of a seven date UK arena tour. e London

four-piece will perform tracks from their highly acclaimed new album Anthems For Doomed Youth, as well as hits from their previous two albums.

nItRO CIRCUs LIVE

LEt It BE 2016

2 f E b r uarY

29 fEbruarY To 5 March

M a N c hESTEr arENa

Led by 17-time X Games medalist Travis Pastrana, Nitro Circus Live returns to Manchester Arena to showcase the best athletes in freestyle motocross (FMX), BMX, skate and more. Expect thrills and spills galore with the Nitro GigantA-Ramp and a 1920’s inspired three-ring circus set featuring elephants, bears, clowns, trapeze artists, flame throwers and lion tamers! Winter 2015

oPEra houSE

Come Together and experience the iconic music of e Beatles with Let it Be. Direct from the West End, this international hit show celebrates the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band and takes you on a journey back to the magical sixties when all you needed was love, and a little help from your friends! 151

Do More - Enjoy More - Live More

What is the Exclusive card?

Where can i use my card?

It is the UK’s only lifestyle card that allows you to do more of the things you enjoy and buy the things you love. From shopping, dining out, hotels and top tourist attractions to professional services, luxury purchases and travelling. Ultimately your card will save you money on everything you spend money on.

At launch there will be hundreds of oﬀers across the North West. We will be adding new oﬀers on a daily basis. Following the North West launch we will launch nationally. Should any of your favourite places not accept the card yet, please let us know and we will do our very best to get them on!

how do i use my card?

Many outlets throughout the area will be selling the card, or you can purchase directly from our website. Our discounted launch price is just £19.95 for a full year. Normal retail price £39.95

Easy. That’s the key, we think it is really important that our card is easy to use. No silly vouchers or code, simply present your card and enjoy a privileged life.

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• Give us the best offers you can The better the deal, the more you will benefit • Provide us with a short description of your business, images and logo So we can promote you in the best possible light • Ensure all your staff are fully aware of the card and your offers Vital to ensure a high quality and consistent service • Talk to us We work closely with you. You will have your own Partner Consultant ensuring you have the best possible experience and maximise your success

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Exclusive Media & PR Ltd, Heritage House, 9b Hoghton Street, Southport Merseyside, PR9 0TE, info@exclusivecard.co.uk www.exclusivecard.co.uk, Tel : 01704 516564

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