Exclusive magazine uk spring 2016 by dan gheorghiu

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 :

Spring 2016

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 hand-stitched and produced in house. Sequins, Swarovski 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.”

Spring 2016

Signature BeSPOKe

Spring 2016

Signatu re BeSPOKe

“When a man is wearing something that fits flawlessly, that has been made to his design specifications and constructed from the finest materials from around the world – it boosts his confidence. He appears more empowering aesthetically to other people and this will be felt by him. there is an old saying that goes: ‘if you’re competing with other gentlemen, make sure you’re the best dressed in the room.’ a man who knows his style, knows himself and is confident in his own mind and actions. Book your appointment with Signature Bespoke and start your journey to sartorial Perfection.

Spring 2016

Signature BeSPOKe

Spring 2016

COntentS

Fashion Signature Bespoke………………………………………………...1 Liverpool One…………………………………………………….8 Cheshire Oaks…………………………………………………...14 Chic Exclusive…………………………………………………...22

Features Bloom With Lisia Jayne Schofield………………………………..34 Smile And e Whole World Smiles With You - Hyslop Dental......36 Aesthetically You………………………………………………...38 e Way Of e Dragon. Exclusive Interview With Duncan Bannatyne.......40 An Exclusive Interview With Roberto Martinez…………………..44 We Luv Festival 2016……………………………………………48 Ellie’s Favourite What’s On Picks Across e North West………....50 Ellie Phillips Interviews Katy Alex And Keira Weathers….……….52 Viva La Diva………………………………………………….…56 e Crafty Cockney - An Exclusive Interview With Eric Bristow.....60 Making A Splash. Seascope Maritime Training……………….…108 Titanic Boat Hotel At e Albert Dock…………………………110 A Preview Of Summer Festivals…………………………………134

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

Spring 2016

COntentS

Eating & Drinking Eating & Drinking In e North West : Restaurant Reviews...................…..............………………67

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

Motoring Exclusive Review : e BMW i8 Will Boost Your E-Go…………………….....124 Setting e Pace – Jaguar’s New F-Pace…………..........…...128

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

What’s On Upcoming Film Releases................................……………133 What’s On Around e North West is Spring..…………138

Like us On Exclusive Magazine

FeatureS & advertiSing enquirieS Neil Wilson 07809 226112 n.wilson@dwpublishing.eu d eSign & PrOduCtiOn Expression Graphic Studio e ditOr Simon Grant e ditOrial Simon Grant Nicola Kenyon Becky Hayes Camille Allcroft

FOOd and drink editOr Camille Allcroft travel editOr - Paul Knowles MOtOring editOr - Stephen Rome FaShiOn editOr - Lauren Greene MuSiC editOr - Ellie Phillips

Spring 2016

Jennifer Metcalfe and Greg Lake liverPOOl One

model the very latest in occasion wear

Jen wears: dress, Coast - £195 necklace, ted Baker at John lewis - £45 Bracelet, Miss Selfridge - £7.50 all available at liverpool One

Hollyoaks star Jennifer Metcalfe and boyfriend Greg Lake demonstrate how to dress for any Summer occasion in this exclusive Liverpool ONE photo shoot. Shot in e Club House, Liverpool’s newest Hamptons style restaurant the couple can be seen modelling the latest occasion wear for Spring / Summer 2016 - and all of these outfits are available at Liverpool ONE. e actress and former Geordie Shore star Greg’s looks showcase everything from feminine silhouettes to sharp tailoring. Jen said: “It was so much fun doing the shoot with Liverpool ONE. We had a great day and I loved the lady like approach to styling.” e couple had their hair styled at Prado and Jen also received a Charlotte Tilbury makeover, available exclusively at John Lewis Liverpool ONE. greg wears: Suit jacket, £245 Waistcoat, £110 trousers, £110 Pocket square, £25 tie - £45 Shirt - £80 all reiss at liverpool One

Jennifer and Greg’s race day looks would be perfect for this year’s Chester Races, which take place 4th – 7th May at Chester Race course.

Spring 2016

liverPOOl One

Jen wears: dress, Coast - £119 Jacket, Coast - £89 Shoes, Miss Selfridge - £39 Bracelet, Cadenzza - £129 Bag, John lewis - £14.50 all available at liverpool One

Jen as before

liverPOOl One

Jen wears: dress, Warehouse - £60 Shoes, Miss Selfridge - £42 necklace, Miss Selfridge - £12.50 greg wears: Jacket, hugo Boss at John lewis - £330 Shirt, reiss - £80 Jumper, reiss - £80 trousers, reiss - £95 Shoes, dune - £89 all available at liverpool One

Spring 2016

Jen wears: dress, Warehouse - £89 Jacket, Coast - £89 necklace, Miss Selfridge - £15 Shoes, dune - £80 all available at liverpool One 11

Jen wears: top, ted Baker @ John lewis - £99 Skirt, Coast - £109 necklace, Coast – £39 Bracelet, Coast - £28 ring, Miss Selfridge - £4.50 Bag, John lewis - £14.50 all available at liverpool One

Some of the design labels available at Virginia Lee include: Annette Gortz ● Isabel de Pedro ● Kevan Jon ● La Bottega di Brunella ● Crea Concept Joseph Ribkoff ● Bitte Kai Rand ● Mashiah ● Lilith ● 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

Cheshire OAKs

CHESHIRE OAKS DRIFT EFFORTLESSLY INTO SPRING WITH THE HELP OF CHESHIRE OAKS DESIGNER OUTLET. THEY’VE HIGHLIGHTED THE TOP EMERGING TRENDS FOR THE SEASON AHEAD STRAIGHT FROM THE CATWALK, SO YOU’LL KNOW EXACTLY WHAT TO LOOK FOR AND HOW TO WEAR IT! JUICY COUTURE

COACH

LEISURE LUXE

MICHAEL KORS AT WATCH STATION

Leisure Luxe appears in combinations of luxurious fluid fabrics and sport elements. Think jumpsuits, oversized jackets, classic bomber jackets and sportswear inspired pieces. These relaxed and loose fits offer sporty shapes and a sophisticated yet contemporary look.

DIESEL

REISS

TED BAKER KURT GEIGER

FEMININE

OSPREY LONDON

Spring 2016

A soft aesthetic is embraced for this trend with designers applying sun-bleached pastels and feminine fabrics to flowing silhouettes. Layered lace, pleats and sheer materials add delicate details in washed-out tones, creating a fresh spring look.

Cheshire OAKs

7 FOR ALL MANKIND GAP

TRAVELLER

COACH

Inspired by ‘big country’ – open air, desert plains and adventure. A safari led sandblasted colour palette of soft browns and neutrals. Natural lightweight fibres, layered with soft tailoring touches and functional details of belts and buckles.

FOSSIL

DR MARTENS

SONIA RYKIEL

JIGSAW JUICY COUTURE

TROPIC A tropical heatwave hits SS2016: hot florals, palm patterns and bright accessories. Designers draw inspiration from tropical and Latin influences, injecting vibrancy into designs with a bright, vivid colour palette.

FOLLI FOLLIE

M&S OUTLET

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST TRENDS AT WWW.CHESHIREOAKSDESIGNEROUTLET.COM Spring 2016

furLA

FURLA A LAbOur Of LOve...

Stitch after stitch, expert artisans bring to life the Furla collections of bags, footwear and small leather goods using traditional techniques that have elevated Made in Italy quality standards to symbols of excellence in every corner of the world. A C O n t e m p O r A r y A n D j Oy f u L i tA L i A n L i f e s t y L e . . .

Founded in 1927 in Bologna, Italy by Aldo and Margherita Furlanetto, Furla is one of the major global players in the leather goods market standing for its strictly Made-in-Italy quality, a colourful creativity, joyfulness and a contemporary Italian lifestyle.

itALiAn LifestyL e...

Furla at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is one of Furlaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest outlet stores, opening in November 2014. Its new concept store design makes it a luxurious environment to shop in where you can browse through a beautiful selection of handbags, small leather goods, jewellery and scarves.

itALiAn CrAftsmAnship AnD Design...

Furla looks to the future with a foot grounded in its solid past of timehonoured craftsmanship, artisanal expertise, a sense of beauty and innovative designs. Each product is produced in the spirit of excellence and high quality, with an exceptional value for the price, continuing the great tradition of Italian craftsmanship. visit furla at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet. 18

Spring 2016

FURLA.COM

BETH HYLAND DESIGNS Gold Catsuit £120

eth Hyland Designs is a ladies’ fashion designer whose collections compliment the beauty of the female body.

Her latest collection features unique, elegant clothing from sizes 8-24 for women aged 18-60 years, designed for every occasion. What’s unique about her collections is that it’s all original, nothing imitated, and sourced in the UK from Fabrics to hand-stitching.

Gold Jumpsuit £100

Gold Loungewear £100

Email: beth@bhylanddesigns.co.uk Website: bhylanddesigns.co.uk Follow: Beth Hyland Designs bhylanddesigns @bhylanddesigns

Purple Lace Loungewear £100

Purple Lace Catsuit £120

Purple Suede Catsuit £120

Spring 2016

BETH HYLAND DESIGNS

White Pantsuit £200

Sequinned Army Jacket £200

Blue Lounge Suit £100

Camouﬂage Tracksuit £200

Flared Army Jacket £200 White Lace Catsuit £120

Spring 2016

CHIC COLUMN

Chic Ltd is a North West PR and Events company specialising in the fashion and lifestyle industry. They 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

t’s oﬃcial – spring is here. After a long (but fabulous) winter of fashion shows and shivering on the red carpet, we are ready to welcome some more sunshine into our life! So far, 2016 has been all about starting new projects and developing exciting ideas for the year ahead with our clients, and we’re looking forward to another fantastic summer of events. In our column for this issue, we have some great tips on how to prepare yourself for summer, and feel amazing inside and out. After all, with the return of our successful North West Fashion Festival later in the year, we all need to look our best in time for the front row… e North West Fashion Festival made its debut in 2014, with a glamorous crowd in attendance to support North West designers and boutiques. We can’t wait to show you what we’ve got planned for this mega fashion weekend in October 2016. We’ve been hard at work shooting our NWFF 2016 campaign with the creative team at Sane Seven, and we want to oﬀer our lovely Exclusive Magazine readers a sneak peek of what’s to come. is year’s North West Fashion Festival is to take place in the stunning St George’s Hall and gardens, with space for even more exhibitors and catwalks than before. In addition to runways and shopping, the festival will play host to masterclasses, workshops and seminars all based around the creative industry. Who said you can’t learn and have fun at the same time? If you want to stay updated with all the latest news and announcements, make sure you head over to our website at www.nwfashionfestival.co.uk. 22

Spring 2016

CHIC COLUMN

Prepare yourself for a beautiful summer Ladies, whether you’re looking for a gorgeous glow or a bikini-ready body, we know the best places to go to start preparing yourself for perhaps the most demanding season of all when it comes to beauty. Looking after your skin and feeling good is important when it comes to the warmer months – so here are our top tips to get ready for your most beautiful summer yet. GE T G Lo W I N G S k I N W I T H CR y S Ta L C L E a R S k I N C a R E

Our favorite skincare brand Crystal Clear is clinically proven to provide amazing anti-aging results, as well as clearer, more radiant looking skin. With summer approaching, now is the time to update your skincare routine. With sunshine and heat, comes damage to the skin – so we’ve picked our top 3 Crystal Clear products to make sure you maintain a healthy glow this summer. Visit www.crystalclear.co.uk today to buy online. CR y S Ta L P o L I S H

is miracle pot is perfect for microdermabrasion at home, combining essential oils and antiageing peptides for smooth, toned and revitalised skin. Ideal for exfoliating from head to toe, giving your skin a nourished, polished finish. IL Lu m I NaT E

is illuminating moisturizer not only oﬀers a flawless complexion, but also keeps the sun’s damaging eﬀects at bay, protecting from UVA and UVB with SPF15, making it the only beauty boost you need this summer! 10 m I N u T E G Lo W

We love this amazing peel-oﬀ mask! is hydrating mask uses active ingredients to minimize pores and tackle congested skin, which is just what thirsty summer skin needs. is instant glow product is a classic Crystal Clear must-have.

GET BIkINI REady WITH LIvERPooL LIPo- 3d LIPo

Ladies, whether you’re looking for a gorgeous glow or a bikini-ready body, we know all the best places to go to start preparing yourself for the most demanding season of all when it comes to beauty. Looking after your skin and feeling good is important when it comes to the warmer months – so here are our top tips to get ready for your most beautiful summer yet. Visit www.liverpoollipo.co.uk for more info, or call 0151 706 8035 today. FEEL GREaT INSIdE aNd ouT WITH kaPuCIa WELLNESS CENTRE

For a workout that not only gets you in shape, but makes you feel amazing on the inside too, look no further than Kapucia. is Liverpool wellbeing centre is more than just a yoga studio, also oﬀering classes such as Kundalini Yoga, meditation, tai chi, personal coaching and nutritional workshops and seminars. Kapucia also has a vegan smoothie and raw juice bar in the building and is soon to launch take away and delivery service of raw foods around town. Make sure you check out this hidden gem based in Liverpool. Visit www.kapucia.com to find out more. kISSaBLE LIPS FRom aESTHETICaLLy you

As the weather gets hotter, some of us may want to reduce the amount of make-up we wear. at’s why we head to Aesthetically You for Lip Plumping and Shaping, allowing us to ditch the lip-liner and lipstick during the heatwave. e quick and easy injections erase signs of aging by filling in any lines and wrinkles, increasing the volume and improving the texture of the lips, leaving you with kissable lips 24/7. Visit www.aestheticallyyou.co.uk to find out more.

Spring 2016

Have you Joined the Brow Club ?

e probably wouldn’t admit it, but we’ve all been guilty at one point or another of feeling ‘brow envy’. at moment where you’re talking to somebody but you can’t help but fixate on their perfectly sculpted, immaculately tweezed eyebrows. Our eyebrows are arguably the most important of our facial features, and while we’d all like to call ourselves connoisseurs of the art of brow grooming, maintaining them is no easy feat.

Meet Kate Russel, Banisher of bad brows and founder of amazing eyebrow specialists e Brow Club. Kate, who is also the owner of Whiston-based beauty salon ‘Peppermint’, is a self-confessed brow obsessor, and so after 20 years of developing and perfecting her skills, she decided to embark on a brand new business venture which has taken the market by storm. e Brow Club are more than just beauticians. Being fully aware of the trauma that a BBE (Bad Brow Experience) can cause, they’ve made it their mission to become experts at their craft, in order to provide ‘e ultimate brow experience’. “A high percentage of my clients come to me after a bad brow experience,” Kate explains, “I’m a brow recovery specialist, so I strive to oﬀer solutions to people’s brow dilemmas. I believe in delivering positive and memorable treatments – We call it brow rehab” Each experience is tailored specifically to suit the individual, whether you want to be big-browed and proud or prefer a more subtle look, each appointment includes a complimenatry consultation and brow design to ensure that you leave feeling “Beautiful and confident in yourself ”. If you know your beauty trends, you’ll be aware that big brows are making a big comeback in 2016. inking back to the 90s, thin was ‘in’ when it came to eyebrows and many women became a little too tweezer happy when channelling Kate Moss’s enviable arches. However, thanks to the likes of Cara Delivigne and Lily Collins, big is most definitely back. “I adore thick, full, brows - they can take years oﬀ you” insists Kate. e Brow Club has focused on creating their signature strong brow via the use of Permanent and semi-permanent brows, Brow re-growth programs, brow extensions and more, but most popular has been their HD Brow treatment. 24

Spring 2016

THE BRoW CLuB

T H e U LT i MaTe BrOw According to Kate, “HD brows are so much more than a simple wax and tint”. e process consists of seven diﬀerent stages: 1. C o N S u LTaT I o N

e Brow club believe in making every brow experience personal, finding out exactly what brow shape and design is right for each customer. 2. T I N T

e stylists at the Brow Club will select a shade to suit your hair colour and skintone perfectly to give your brows added definition.

But how much is this lengthy process going to cost we hear you cry? eir whole HD treatment can be had for a very reasonable £25, and appointments have been in high demand all over the North West area. Kate believes the HD brow is the future of brow beauty: “My top tip? Put your tweezers in the bin, grow out your brows and get a professional brow treatment once a month” So what are you waiting for? Join the club everybody wants to be a member of, and become the proud owner of some of the best brows in the North West!

3 & 4 . Wa x a N d T H R E a d

Waxing will give your brows a sleek, angular shape. For the perfect arch, the fine hairs are then hand threaded to shape the brow 5. T W E E z E

Any pesky stray hairs will be plucked for neatness. 6. T R I m

Next, e brows are trimmed for length regularity. 7. With their professional touch, this step gives the final

wow factor and show-stopping definition.

To book your appointment, Call e Brow Club today on 07796 520229 or for more info email thebrowshack@gmail.com

Spring 2016

LIvERPooL LIPo

L I v E R P o o L L I P o I N T R o d u C E S a N E W dImENSIoN oF BEauTy To THE NoRTH WEST

Ever wanted younger looking skin without the painful face-lift, and a toned, contoured body without the hassle? en now is the time to head to Rodney Street’s Liverpool Lipo. is leading clinic is well-known for their innovative approach to non-invasive lipolysis, skin tightening, cellulite and fat reduction, and are now introducing the revolutionary 3D Lipo and 3D Skinmed treatments to the North West. 3d LIPo

e effective fat-freezing 3D Lipo treatment has found a home at the popular clinic, and local celebrities Coleen Rooney and Dawn Ward have been among the first to enjoy the life-changing results that the outstanding 3D treatments have to offer. It works by targeting specific problem areas of the body, such as muffin tops and excess flab, and freezing the fat cells. With no downtime, this treatment is ideal for people looking for quick and easy results. Clinic owner Glenn Pringle comments; "e goal when starting Liverpool Lipo was to make high end, non-invasive treatments attainable to the everyday person. We have achieved this with the help of 3D-Lipo and 3D Skinmed. Both of the machines offer amazing solutions on fat reduction, cellulite and facial rejuvenation. Jonathon Cheban, international reality star and best friend to the Kardashians is the latest celebrity to endorse the benefits of this exciting non-surgical treatment, joining the ranks of showbiz stars that swear by 3D Skinmed. Other glamorous clients include Amy Childs and Gemma Collins, who have confessed their love for the miracle treatments.

Spring 2016

LIvERPooL LIPo

3d S k I N m E d

Developed by 3D Lipo, the exciting 3D HIFU is a non-invasive face lift, which has already become a bestselling treatment at the Liverpool Lipo clinic. It works using High Intensity Focused Ultrasound that targets individual areas of the face, applying highly focused acoustic energy that creates thermal coagulation zones at 3 diﬀerent selected depths - following which a wound healing response results in the formation of new collagen, thus providing a longer term tightening of the skin.

Glenn notes; ‘e last 5 years have seen some amazing advancements in non-surgical lipolysis and facial treatments, none more so than 3D HIFU the face lift without the surgery. Results last two years and only a single session is required making it the most advanced nonsurgical face-lift treatment available. e team at Liverpool Lipo are excited at seeing some incredible results.’

is clinically proven treatment is highly recommended to anyone seeking younger, fresher looking skin without the commitment of going under the knife. To book your consultation today, call 0151 706 8035 Visit the website at www.liverpoollipo.co.uk

Spring 2016

SHE SHEa

She Shea Launches Stunning New Bridal Collection at VIP Ladies Lunch

ashion-lovers flocked to Liverpool’s Restaurant Bar and Grill to see the launch of She Shea’s Spring/ Summer collection. e event attracted countless style lovers from fashionloving celebrities, bloggers and a variety of industry specialists for a networking lunch and afternoon of glamour.

looks created by the bespoke fashion label.

Guests of this decadent Ladies Lunch were entertained with live performances from local artist Clare Sophia, a champagne reception, plus a succession of fashion shows and 2course lunch. e fabulous Restaurant Bar & Grill, well known as a local celebrity hotspot, proved a fantastic location for the runway of gorgeous

Highlights of this sold-out event included an exclusive preview of the stunning new bridal collection, fashion shows featuring the Woolton-based designers prom and party wear, luxury goodie bags, a champagne reception and two course lunch, all accompanied by live performances, DJs, and radio host Ellie Phillips.

Founder of She Shea, Jessica O’Shea, commented: “We were delighted to welcome over 100 guests to the She Shea Ladies Lunch and Fashion Show. We have been overwhelmed by the level of support and I’m sure it will be the first of many.”

Showbiz appearances were made by stars such as Britain’s Next Top Model’s Jenna McMahon, television personality Mark Byron, and Ibiza Weekender’s Rachel Rhodes, and She Shea’s loyal clients attended in their droves. Successful local beauty brands also shared the spotlight with stands for the ladies to peruse, adding a shopping experience to the wonderful afternoon. Internationally known brand Crystal Clear Skincare, Rainhill salon Beauty on View, and hair experts Russianology provided much needed retail therapy. Positive reviews were made all round by She Shea fans, and her glamorous clients are already speculating about what she may have planned for the rest of this upcoming year.

Visit www.sheshea.com today to ﬁnd your perfect bespoke dress.

Spring 2016

SouTHPoRT FaSHiON SHOw Southport is to pick up the fashion baton as one of the most exclusive events in the fashion calendar comes to town. So move over Paris, Milan and London! Southport Fashion Show is back for the fourth year and promises to be even bigger and better than before. With runway shows throughout the day and a host of celebrity guests, it's an event not to be missed. e show is on Sunday, April 24th at Southport eatre and Convention Centre. Starting at 12pm there will be five hours jampacked with fashion shows showcasing all the best from the latest SS16 collections. ere will also be plenty of live entertainment and the chance to shop 'til you drop. e event is organised by Lisa Hames, director of GModels and Casting Agency, and it will be hosted by Radio City's Claire Simmo. Lisa has secured some of the region's most elite clothing shops, hair salons,

Spring 2016

accessory outlets and beauty salons to guarantee fashionistas a great day out. Lisa said: "I'm really excited about this year's show as there's so much planned; it's going to be amazing. is will be the fourth Southport Fashion Show that I've organised and I'm so pleased how it has taken oﬀ. Tickets won't be around for long!" e first 200 lucky visitors to arrive at the show will be treated to luxury VIP goodie bags. Community Link Foundation is the nominated charity for the event and there will be fundraising activity throughout the day. Tickets are £7.50 and can be purchased online by visiting www.southportfashion.co.uk and they will also be available throughout selected participating stores. If anyone would like to get involved in this fantastic event or future shows as a exhibitor or sponsor please contact info@southportfashion.co.uk.

JoHN LEWIS

Brazilian Homeware Top Tips

T O P T i PS FOr BriNgiNg TrOP iCaL d e C O r iNTO yOUr HOMe THiS S P r i N g /SUMMer. With the Rio Olympics fast approaching, 2016 is set to be Brazil’s year… not just in the sporting arena, but also in home interiors. John Lewis’s spring/summer 2016 home collections will help you to bring warmth and style to your abode. John Hayes, home design adviser at John Lewis Liverpool, shares his top tips for channelling the spirit of Brazil. 1 . I T ’ S a L L a B o u T T H E C o Lo u R – a saturated

colour palette with Amazonian-inspired prints and bold, zesty tones is key to mastering the Brazilian trend. Whether you make a statement with botanical print bedding or use pops of colour in your living room; home accessories, like the John Lewis Parrots cushion, can help add a fun and vibrant touch to any living space. 30

Spring 2016

2.aCCESSoRISE WITH CRaFTWoRk – woven

fabrics and textiles, inspired by the ancient tribal craftwork of Latin America, nestle comfortably in any room and give your home a classic, rustic feel. Whether it’s for your kitchen or your living room, John Lewis Liverpool has a wide range of home accessories - my top pick is the La Selva woven basket in vibrant green. John Lewis also has a wide range of woven cushions, and if you’re feeling creative why not head over to the haberdashery department on the 3rd floor, where our Partners can advise you on customising your own. 3.dECoRaTE youR TaBLE WITH BoLd PRINTS – switching up your tableware is a simple and

stylish way to brighten up the dining area, while making for a great talking point for guests. John Lewis Liverpool oﬀers a great selection of tableware and ceramics, from Palm dinner plates to the Berry bubble jug and tumbler set - making it the perfect excuse to throw a dinner party with some friends.

JoHN LEWIS

4. B R I N G T H E J u N G L E T o yo u R H o m E

– make a feature of your houseplants by adding a vibrant vase. ere are plenty to choose from at John Lewis Liverpool, such as the Poole Pottery Mayan Bud vase collection. e glazed green marbling in this vase will not only add a pop of colour but also incorporate the fresh, tropical vibe of the Brazilian jungle. 5. C a P T u R E T H E E S S E N C E o F B R a z I L I NSIdE aN d o u T – natural materials like bamboo cane and wood

add a rustic touch to your outdoor living space. My top pick for transforming your garden is the John Lewis Ariel 3 seater sofa. e sleek, wooden frame boasts an open weave design and features a soft, double-braided fisherman’s rope meaning it’s also water resistant and quick drying, making it a perfect fit for your garden and the changeable weather! For more e xper t advice on interiors and homeware, contact John Lewis Liverpool on 0151 709 7070 or visit the store in Liverpool One. Spring 2016

CJ In The CITy

CJ In The City

estled on the lower ground floor of the award winning Bling Bling building is the oasis of tranquillity that is C J in the City Spa. For over twelve years Claire Whittle has been working her magic on the skin of Liverpool women and is now delighted to confirm that she is the City’s Brand Ambassador for the leading cosmeceuticals company Medik 8. Claire is keen to encourage more women to embrace the amazing science behind the brand ‘Medik8’, the ultimate experts on skin, providing state of the art solutions for specific skin concerns. I wouldn’t recommend a brand that I did not 100% believe could transform your skin’s health”. Says Claire. Claire has recently expanded her team and is joined by Hayley, Elkie and Tasha in delivering everything from the 32

Spring 2016

CJ In The CITy celebrity endorsed Russian semi-permanent eyelashes to OPI manicures and pedicures. Claire and her team also oďŹ&#x20AC;er the latest in Crystal Clear with their Comcit Facial which is considered one of the best anti-aging products currently available. Claire prides herself on using only the best, for example all waxing is undertaken using a totally organic wax from Outback Organics. So from Derma roller, peels, make up for that special occasion, or a soothing massage, C J in the city is where you need to be. Call now to start your journey to beautiful skin 0151 709 7834 Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram CJ in the City (Lower Ground Floor of î&#x20AC; e Bling Bling Building: Herbert of Liverpool) 69 Hanover Street Liverpool L1 3DY

Spring 2016

BLOOM

or 16 years my career has been supporting local people old and young into employment, training and education through information advice and guidance. After successfully helping 100′s of families out of poverty and back earning an income I found myself no longer challenged. It was now time to make a diﬀerence in my life as well as others. Searching for something new and unsure where the next stage in my life would take me, I knew a few things for certain, I had to love my new direction with a passion, continue to help people and use the skills I have gained over the years. After a tragic accident with one of my family members who was left scarred and one of my best friends and close family members going through Breast Cancer I immediately wanted to help. My brain ticked over, I searched the web for months to find my calling until one day Semi Permanent Make up Artistry found me. I attended one insight day and I was hooked, this was the perfect option for me, everything I love rolled up in one job. I have loved art since as early as I can remember. e medical aspect of SPMU meant I could help those closest to me and continue to make a positive diﬀerence in people’s lives which is where I get my kicks from and it meant I could work for myself, a long life dream since an early age.

Lisia Jayne Schofield

Spring 2016

I now live the dream with a smile on my face and passion in my heart and I can honestly say SPMU has changed my life and the lives of others around me. You can find me in clinics and salons up and down the country so please do get in touch to find out if I am in a clinic near you. I attended Nouveau Contour Training Academy, one of the leading training academies not only in this country but across Europe and the USA where I have spent 100’s of hours training and perfecting my techniques in Semi Permanent Makeup. Specialising in cosmetic and medical tattoo artistry and facial Aesthetics with private clinics in Crosby, Liverpool 1 and the famous Rodney Street, more recently I have become popular for brow fixers. SPMU prices can vary dramatically from £60 - £700, with many clients choosing price over qualifications and ability and the city has a growing trend of women desperately wanting brow fixes. I have gained a bit of a reputation now “the brow fixer”. I have been able to save many faces in the process and enjoy the challenge. Not only am I Nouveau Trained I also travel the world on specialist workshops with the world’s leading artist to ensure I constantly bring my clients the latest cutting edge techniques to provide them with the very best treatments available on the market today.

BLOOM

L au n c h i n g a brand new t e c h n i q u e to the market for w o m e n t hroughout LiverpooL, c h e S h i r e and mancheSter. Diamant Blading is the next generation of Microblading and only the cream of the crop can actually achieve the White Diamante Blading status. is-method is a very easy technique for preparing the surface of the skin. After scratching a 0,05 mm thin line into the skin with a real cut diamond, the fine lines of permanent eyebrow make-up look very accurate and natural. By working with this new technique a whole range of new eyebrow creations are possible. Each hair of the eyebrow looks so natural and it doesn’t seem like permanent make-up at all. Another advantage of this new technique is the healing of the skin. e skin heals very fast and the colour pigments do not become blurred inside the skin. is way each line of the hair-stroke looks very natural, has a fine structure and results in a razor-sharp definition after it has healed. A cut diamond is really very sharp. ere´s nothing comparable to it anywhere. For this reason health and safety is vital which is why it is only oﬀered to fully qualified and competent technicians. e “Diamant Blading”-tool has a length of 15 cm, weighs about 50g and looks very classy. e instrument is made of titan and on its tip a real cut diamond is placed. Similar to a pen, the diamond can be plunged into the hand piece. My hand piece is custom made in Switzerland and like everything that comes from Switzerland is made to a perfect standard and regulation.

e treatment prices vary from city to city but on average costs around £350 which includes a second top up treatment. Like all my treatments they are priced in accordance to skill, qualifications, training and the standard of my equipment. Bloom Semi Permanent also offers 0% finance which allows everyone to benefit from my services. In my spare time I support the Katie Piper Foundation where I actively raise money for the trust and donate a percentage of my salary to the charity to support family and individuals who have suffered the effects of burns. I am also working on a project with handpicked facial specialists that will take me to clinics in London and Europe but you will have to follow me to find out more on this xx

Mob: 07540 442874 Email: bloom.liverpoolspmu@hotmail.com bloom.liverpoolspmu bloom liverpool bloom semi permanent makeup specialist

Spring 2016

HYSLOP DENTAL

Smile and the whole world smiles with you

Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic | 8 Albert Rd, Southport, PR9 0LE | 01704 536003 | reception@hyslopdental.co.uk

osing a tooth or multiple teeth in adulthood can be traumatic. You don't know what you've got until it's gone, as the old saying goes, and never is that truer than with the loss of a tooth. It's not only your smile at stake, but your confidence, identity, enjoyment of foods and general wellbeing that are jeopardised. But not anymore, thanks to 'Same Day Teeth' dental implants at Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic in Southport. Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic, led by practice principal Dr James Hyslop, 36

is restoring healthy, happy smiles for people across Merseyside and the wider North West. e well-established 8 Albert Rd, Southport practice has been elevated to new heights of professionalism and modernity since James and his wife Emma took over the clinic in 2013. Now, the town centre dental clinic proudly boasts four state-of-the-art surgeries and is one of the few local dental practices to have an on-site 3D Cone Beam scanner. A former member of the Royal Army Dental Corp, and experienced dentist of over 20 years, James has been

Spring 2016

placing and restoring dental implants since 2006 completing a masters in Periodontology in Cape Town in 2012 before achieving the coveted Diploma in Implant Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons, London in 2013. Not only does James oﬀer 'Same Day Teeth' – whereby patients can receive a restorative bespoke crown, prepared and fixed in a few short hours – but he is also one of the only dentists in the area capable of delivering a full arch (upper or lower jaw) of dental implants within a day. “Not many dentists are providing 'Same Day Teeth', says Aughton local, James. “I'm one of the few people doing it in Southport and then the next place is Liverpool and then you're looking at Manchester. When the patient comes in here I can literally scan them there and then. It takes 15 seconds for the scan and then I can have it on the screen and show them where the dental implants will go.”

HYSLOP DENTAL

Following the initial consultation and preparatory work, a patient can have a complete arch of pearly white teeth, aﬃxed to a base of titanium screws, implanted within a day. Joanne Mason, from Wigan is one such satisfied patient. So happy was Joanne with the result of her full upper arch of gleaming new teeth that she opted to have her lower arch replaced in full a mere six months later. Now, she couldn't be happier with her perfect set of teeth. “I have gone from being told that I was going to lose all of my teeth, and that I would have to wear dentures, to having the most wonderful full set of implants, “beams Joanne. “From the moment I entered the clinic I felt very comfortable and at ease. Everything was explained to me fully about the treatment I was going to have, and nothing was too much trouble for the friendly staﬀ.”

their membership plan, and facial aesthetics treatments that you would expect. “I am truly thankful to all at Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic and would most definitely do it all over again!” says Joanne, flashing a flawless grin. ankfully she won't have to, as her full set of dental implants virtually guarantee her a lifetime of smiles once more. If you'd like to restore your teeth to their former glory, why not visit James and his team for a consultation at the Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic, located at 8 Albert Rd, Southport, PR9 0LE. For more information, call 01704 536003, email reception@hyslopdental.co.uk or visit www.hyslopdental.co.uk.

'Same Day Teeth' offer a more comfortable and pain-free alternative to dentures. Dental implants are a more durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that can restore the full function of natural teeth – as well as your smile and confidence. Hyslop Dental & Implant Clinic offer all of their dental implants, including full arch procedures, with interest free finance options available. Of course, they also offer the full range of cosmetic dental care, supported by Spring 2016

AESTHETICALLY YOu

hollywood celebrity laser treatment comes to Liverpool

not just down to the photo editing skills of the glossy magazines; it's Harmony ClearLift!

Alex Gerrard regularly visits the Rodney street clinic and has even jetted back from LA for treatments.

ClearLift™ Pixel Q-Switched laser is a collagen developing treatment which improves skin texture and tone, smoothes wrinkles, brightens dark patches and diminishes brown age spots for youthful vitality. Targeting dark circles, neck lines, large pores, saggy skin and fine lines all in one treatment, the Pixel Q-Switched Laser Facelift from Alma Lasers diﬀers from traditional fractional or pixelated laser skin resurfacing treatments because it goes deeper into the dermis. is

lex Gerrard was spotted visiting her favourite clinic recently which is popular with celebrities across the northwest.

Aesthetically You, Rodney Street is the only place in the North that oﬀers the new lunchtime craze ClearLift laser treatment. e clinic is also known for Brazilian bum lifts, Botox, fillers, thread lifts, IV vitamin and weight loss drips and hair and tattoo removal.

WAGS, Soap stars and even royals have been seen visiting e Rodney Street Clinic which is vast becoming a celeb hotspot for non-surgical treatments. Have you ever wondered how your favourite A List celebrities manage to look so perfect all the time?...No, it’s

Spring 2016

ClearLift is already a huge hit in Hollywood and has been called the ‘lunchtime face-lift because it is so quick and simple to perform and yet gives fantastic, long-lasting results. It is a non-invasive treatment that lifts and firms the face, neck and chest with no needles, no knives and absolutely no injury to the skin’s surface, leaving no redness or tell-tale signs making it the ideal celebrity treatment.

AESTHETICALLY YOu

means the regeneration takes place underneath with no injury to the skin's surface. e main advantage is the comfort and no down time oﬀered by PixelQ while achieving very good results in treating all signs of ageing –skin laxity, texture and pigmentation. ClearLift Laser is a skin treatment which is eﬀective for a wide variety of skin problems, including: § Fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead, delicate eye area, décolletage, hands, nasal folds, marionette lines, and neck area.

Aesthetically You have an exclusive deal with ClearLift so you can’t get it anywhere else in the northwest. Treatments start from £150. Aesthetically You 25 Rodney Street Liverpool L1 9EH 0151 709 0011 www.aestheticallyyou.co.uk

§ Dullness § Redness § Pigmentation § Uneven skin § Broken blood vessels § Sagging § Ageing § Sun damaged skin Typically the neck is a diﬃcult area to firm and lift without invasive and painful surgery. Botox can soften necklace lines, but to tighten the skin the best thing on the market is ClearLift. e laser treatment permeates the dermis to revive skin from deep within, freshening and tightening in a way no other treatment can.

Spring 2016

DuNCAN BANNATyNE

The Way of the Dragon An Exclusive interview with entrepreneur and Dragon's Den star Duncan Bannatyne Duncan Bannatyne, OBE is the no-nonsense entrepreneur who we've all come to know and love after his 10-year stint on Dragon's Den and last year's appearance on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! Simon Grant donned his best suit to pitch his idea for an Exclusive interview and, happily for us, Duncan said: 'I'm in!' He's been such a mainstay of British television over the last decade that Duncan Bannatyne is one of those charismatic TV personalities that everyone feels they know. However, as you'll come to learn, there is much about the straight-talking Health Club magnate, that might surprise you. Not least that the 67-year-old Scotsman is a passionate charitable campaigner, a doting family man, and was once-upon-a-time given a dishonourable discharge from the Royal Navy! 40

Spring 2016

DuNCAN BANNATyNE

Hi Duncan, thanks for speaking to Exclusive Magazine. Firstly, out of everything you've achieved in life, what is your proudest accomplishment? at’s a very easy question. My children and grandchildren are undoubtedly my greatest achievement. We are all very close and they are happy and welladjusted. Family time is the most precious time of all. You support many good causes and were recognised for your charitable contributions with an OBE. Why is it important for you to give back so generously? I wasn't raised with a silver spoon in my mouth and I've worked very hard to get to where I am today. I'm privileged to be able to help charities and organisations that make a real diﬀerence to people’s lives, not just with money but with my time. For example, I've travelled to Mexico and Vietnam with Operation Smile teams to see the amazing work the surgeons do for children with cleft palates – it's life changing. It was in 1999 when I really began to understand how it was possible to make a diﬀerence to people’s lives, when I saw for myself the abject poverty of the street children in Romania. My own children were still quite young and the thought of them spurred me on to support UNICEF and Scottish International Relief (now known as Mary's Meals). All the charities I support help people who are in a very vulnerable position and can’t help themselves.

Spring 2016

DuNCAN BANNATyNE You famously began your entrepreneurial career with the purchase of a £450 ice cream van and never looked back. What prompted you to go in that direction? After leaving the Navy with a dishonourable discharge, which has been well-documented, I was looking for an opportunity to make some money. I was working in a bakery when I saw an old ice cream van for sale. Something clicked in my mind and I bought the van. It was a relatively easy business to run and I expanded, bought more vans and eventually sold the business for £28,000. Right place, right time and an eye for the main chance! You've had a very varied career since, from nursing homes, to nursery chains and latterly health clubs and hotels. What does it take to make you say 'yes' to a business idea – do you follow your head, heart or both? You can’t go into a business expecting to succeed without knowledge, so in that respect: head. But I also see in my heart that I can do things better. e care homes are a good example. Most of the homes I visited when I was researching were awful places. I knew I could do it better and still make money. e move into health clubs came when I broke my leg in a skiing accident and couldn’t find any decent fitness facilities locally to help my recovery. Of course, sometimes you have to go with your gut. You should always trust your instincts.

Spring 2016

What have been the highlights of your 10 years on Dragon's Den? What's it like behind the scenes, particularly your relationship with the other dragons? I had 10 very exciting years on the Den and made some great friends, such as Peter Jones, eo Paphitis, Deborah Meaden and Kelly Hoppen. It’s no secret that I had more time for some Dragons that others. I did enjoy my time on the show though. It was full-on and the filming schedule was very demanding. All the Dragons are very successful in their own field, so of course they’re going to be competitive and sometimes this spilled oﬀ screen. However, behind the scenes we're all very normal.

Are there any business propositions, either on Dragon's Den or otherwise, that you wish you hadn't turned down? e only one that I would say got away is Tangle Teezer (the detangling hairbrush). It was a great product, backed by a very nice guy. However, that said, I never look back and never regret anything. I’ve done all right with the opportunities that I've taken. Where does your business acumen originate? Did your upbringing in Clydebank play a part in that? I suspect that my determination to succeed was driven by wanting to improve on my start in life. I had an incredibly poor childhood, as the second eldest of seven children. I was told by my mother that she couldn't afford to buy me a bicycle, so I asked the local newsagents if I could start a paper round. Told I would need a list of 100 potential customers, I painstakingly knocked on many doors and eventually drew up a list of 100 names and addresses. I got the job, bought a bike and never looked back. Who is your biggest inspiration, business or otherwise, and why? Magnus McFarlane-Barrow (founder and CEO of global hunger charity, Mary's Meals) is my inspiration in life, apart from my family. I have known Magnus for the best part of 20 years and have seen him start his charity with nothing and grow it to feeding over one million children every day. Only amazing, dedicated people can do that. Magnus and I started off in 1999, opening our first orphanage to house children with HIV and Aids in Romania. Magnus grew Mary's Meals to what it is today. A great read is Magnus’ book “A shed that fed a million people.” if you only read one book this year, then make sure it's this book. It has been, and still is, a great pleasure to consider Magnus a true friend. I can honestly say he changed my life. For those who haven't read your biography, you volunteered and served in the Royal Navy. What was that experience like and how did it shape you as a person? I volunteered for 12 years with the Royal Navy as a junior second class engineering mechanic stoker at RNTE Shotley, near Ipswich. I served in the Navy for several years before receiving a dishonourable discharge for threatening to throw an officer off a boat landing jetty in Scotland. is was in part a reaction to this officer's abuse of his authority, in part a dare by my shipmates and in part a way of getting out of the Navy, with which I had become disillusioned. Afterwards,

I had to serve nine months in the tough Colchester military detention centre before being discharged aged 20. I’m not sure that it had that much influence on the way my life shaped up to be honest.

You have several health clubs and spas in the Manchester area – do you venture to the North West much and, if so, where do you like to visit and why? I do visit all my clubs, including those in the North West. I particularly love to visit Manchester and often, because I think Manchester is a great city with great entertainment. e health clubs and spas there are always really busy with fantastic people.

What was it really like in the jungle on I'm a Celebrity? What was the best and worst thing about it? ere were times when it was very hard in the Jungle. e boredom was very diﬃcult to deal with; I’m used to being busy. And the negativity of certain people certainly made it a less than pleasant experience at the time. Although, I did meet some great people, forged friendships, had a lot of fun and challenged myself completely out of my comfort zone. I’m not in the first flush of youth anymore, so I’m pretty proud of how I dealt with the physical challenges – even if I did come away with a black eye!

We know you as the busy, non-stop entrepreneur. But what do you like to do to unwind? Spend time with my family and girlfriend. I have a lovely home in Portugal where I can completely relax and chill. I keep myself fit and am at a stage where I can enjoy myself without worrying. Spring 2016

RobERto MaRtiNEz

Roberto Martinez

Everton Football Club manager, Roberto Martinez took time out of his busy schedule to chat with Exclusive Magazine about his ambitions for the team, life in the North West, his biggest influences and the responsibility he feels towards Evertonians.

artínez began his career at his home-town club CF Balaguer in the Tercera División, playing his first competitive game for the club's youth team when he was just nine years old. He played at every level of youth football for the club before moving to Real Zaragoza at the age of 16.

moving on to Walsall, then Swansea City in 2005 and subsequently Chester City in 2006. In February 2007, he returned to Swansea City as manager on a two-year contract and his playing career came to an end when he was 33. Martínez was confirmed as the new manager of Wigan in June 2009.

Martínez moved to England in 1995, joining fellow Spaniards Jesús Seba and Isidro Díaz, at Wigan Athletic. In 2001 he moved to Scottish club, Motherwell, before

e Spaniard moved to Everton in June 2013, becoming their first manager from outside of Great Britain and Ireland.

Spring 2016

RobERto MaRtiNEz How is life living in the North West and what did you think of it when you first moved over from Spain? When I first came here from Spain, culturally, it was a shock! I can’t live without an espresso and I couldn’t find espresso anywhere! is was 1995 and I had just moved to Wigan along with two other Spanish players Jesus Seba and Isidro Diaz.

chairman and he was also a huge determining factor because he said that we would make the diﬀerence at the club. We provided something that wasn’t there in the dressing room at the time and he said he would make sure that we settled into the new environment. Two years, we said to ourselves. We would learn the language and we would see where this journey brought us. It turned out to be an incredible journey, a great adventure and at the heart of it has been the great passion for the game that exists in this country and especially in this part of the country.

Our routine was to get up early, go to training, eat a good, healthy lunch and go home for a siesta. But when we went out at around five in the evening, everywhere would be shut! So our routine had to change and, in fact, the way we lived our lives changed. We were fortunate to get to know some Spanish people in Standish and Ramon, who had an Italian restaurant, would cook Spanish food and this became our place. People have always been really friendly, really passionate about the game of football and here I am 21 years later still living in the area and this tells you everything. Did you always think you’d stay? I was only 21 when I first came from Spain to the North West of England as a player for Wigan. It was unusual at that time for a Spanish player to move to England. In fact, as a reference point, we only had Nayim [the former Tottenham player, with whom Martinez was a teammate at Real Zaragoza]. He would talk to us young players about his time in England and, clearly, the British game was so diﬀerent to anything we experienced in Spain. ere was a comfort zone at the time and Spanish players didn’t want to move but a big factor which determined so much was that we came to England as three. If I had been on my own, it would not have happened. Dave Whelan was the Wigan

Spring 2016

RobERto MaRtiNEz What is the intensity that exists in Liverpool in terms of its football teams? Football brings people together and, if we lose, we all suffer that disappointment together and, if we win, we share that happiness and sense of achievement. In Liverpool, it is not just the result of your own team which can affect that happiness. Someone else’s result can affect it, too. e intensity is something you thrive on and it brings with it a responsibility to become better day by day, to try to build a winning team with a winning mentality. We are very proud at Everton of our heritage and history, the landmarks we have established in the game and the success we have achieved across many years. What stimulates me most as a manager is to strive always to become better and to give more happiness to our fans in the city. You can see in this city how certain aspects are affected so much by an Everton win or an Everton defeat. Evertonians are unique in their passion for the game and their support for the club and making them happy is a great responsibility. It’s a responsibility you thrive on. You have people in your team from all over the world – do you think the North West is part of the attraction when players may be considering coming to Everton? What is important for any player who comes to Everton is to know what it is to represent Everton as a club, to know this is the club of Dixie Dean and the Holy Trinity of Howard Kendall, Colin Harvey and Alan Ball. For our players from

Spring 2016

other countries, it is vital that they understand first the privilege it is to represent Everton. It is vital that they understand the culture, who we are as a club and the feeling of our fans. Do they understand our fans and the fact that each and every fan has a history which aﬀects how they feel about the club? Every player we bring to the club, we give them a welcome pack which conveys all the elements of the club and its incredible history. It can be tremendously powerful for a new player when a football club has such a rich and proud history and it can also be very daunting. But with the right connection with our fans, it can be really powerful for any player who comes here. From the beginning, what we try to achieve is stimulating the thirst of a player to understand everything Everton is and stands for as a club. Who has been the biggest influence in your life? It was my father who gave me my passion for the game. He managed the team in my hometown of Balaguer. It wasn’t a job for him. It was his passion. And I lived the game with my dad. I was consumed by it – we were consumed by it. Everything revolved around the game. If the team won, everything was fantastic at home. If we didn’t win..! But they were special times and so many special memories growing up and talking about football with my dad. And it helped me to understand that in football you need first and foremost to have a dream, a vision, and you need to work with the team to realise your goals and aspirations.

RobERto MaRtiNEz What do you do in your spare time to relax away from football? When I go home I sit and watch football! But I do this with my headphones on and my wife, Beth, has the sound on watching whatever she wants to on the other TV. But at least we are sitting together - on an L-shaped sofa so that I can watch my TV and Beth can watch hers - and that is the main thing! We have a daughter, Luella, and she is as good as gold. Where is your philosophy of passing attacking football born from? My method of working and beliefs in the game come from my own experiences, a combination of growing up and playing the game in Spain and then experiencing the British game. In Spain, we had a clear, possession-based style and an appreciation and understanding of positional play and this is how I was brought up. Obviously, the intensity and tempo of the British game have been huge influences, too. I am very passionate about English football having spent 21 years of my life here. I have always believed in terms of managing players that it is vital they buy into the concept of being part of a team that has a clear goal and aspiration. is will benefit them as individuals and you can build the club and a winning team around that. What you want more than anything are players who are prepared to give everything they have got in order to make the diﬀerence to achieve the success we are striving towards. What is your ambition at Everton? e ambition is really clear – to build a winning team. is season we have been very consistent in our performances and we have shown tremendous signs of progressing as a team. We are developing at Everton some of the most exciting young talent in European football. Romelu Lukaku, at 22 years old, has probably had the most impressive calendar year in 2015 of any striker in the country. John Stones is still only 21 and he is playing in the manner that we want to play as a club, while there is Ross Barkley who possesses a combination of physical strength and technical gifts that is so rare. A player with the years and experience of Phil Jagielka is sometimes overlooked but he is the reason that John Stones has developed so well so quickly because Phil Jagielka is there on his shoulder bringing all of that experience on to the pitch and helping John alongside him. All of the players here are so professional and so in love with the game and that is very refreshing. It is like turning back the clock. We are getting very, very close to turning a really exciting team into a winning team. We have shown that we are on the right path, that we have got probably the most complete squad we have had for a long, long time in terms of the players that we have. I truly believe that, as long as we have got enough time to build something, we will be able to compete against anyone. Spring 2016

WE Luv FEstivaL

Records will be set on May Bank Holiday 2016 with a festival announced for 80,000 guests to be held at Aintree Racecourse Liverpool. We Luv Festival will be the first festival event focused predominantly on families. e colossal family-oriented event will be held in Liverpool at the Aintree Racecourse on 28th and 29th May 2016. With over 80,000 visitors expected to attend over two days and over thirty artists set to

he Family Fun Festivals Company, the organisation behind We Luv Festival are delighted to host the event which is a brand new and unique festival concept. e festival will oﬀer tickets from the competitive price point of just £35 and children under 6 will attend for free whilst students will enjoy discounted ticket prices. Younger guests will enjoy interactive sports activities, face painting and plenty more family fun. e event aims to completely shake up the festival scene with a brand new approach centred on making them family friendly with a line up featuring well known music stars to appeal to all ages. Some of the headlining artists already confirmed for the event include Dizzee Rascal, UB40, Fatman Scoop, Professor Green, Arrested Development, Example and DJ Wire, Radio Riddler, Scouting For Girls, Alexander O’Neal, William Singe, Fuse ODG, Sugar Hill Gang, Louisa Johnson and Reggie and Bollie. More huge names are yet to be announced for the festival which will be the family event of the year and Liverpool star Rebecca Ferguson will also make a sensational return to the stage during the two day event. 48

Spring 2016

perform across two stages, ‘We Luv Festival’ will put Liverpool firmly on the map as a festival destination, bringing a family focused festival of music and entertainment to the city. e event will be the largest music festival staged in the North West, featuring a host of music stars.

WE Luv FEstivaL

Jennie Blake of We Luv Festival said: “We are thrilled to introduce a completely new festival concept to Liverpool and we are confident that our family friendly philosophy will be a resounding success. Oﬀering an unrivalled programme of musical performers alongside food and activities, We Luv Festival will have something for all ages to enjoy. e scale of the festival will be something never before seen in the area and we are looking forward to putting Liverpool on the map as a festival destination”. Charity partners to the festival include Alder Hey, Cash 4 Kids, Claire House,

Everton in the Community and LFC Foundation. ere will be on-site parking for the event and the location is easily accessible via convenient public transport links. We Luv Festival will have family fun at heart, with guests enjoying live music and street food stalls in a safe and relaxed environment. ere will be numerous activities on oﬀer during the two day event and the aﬀordable tickets mean that family groups can enjoy the fun. Guests will enjoy a unique day out which will focus on a fun and thrilling

Spring 2016

mixture of music performances and events alongside a selection of mouthwatering food. e scale of the festival will be something entirely new for Liverpool oﬀering an event which will start the summer in style with a host of music stars performing across the course of two action packed days.

We Luv Festival 28-29th May 2016 Aintree Racecourse www.weluvfestival.co.uk

ELLIE PHILLIPS

t's spring, and it's slowly starting to warm up, which means one thing to music lovers: festival season is just around the corner - and here in the North West we've got shed-loads of them. Grassroots festival reshold kicks oﬀ Liverpool's festival calendar over the first weekend in April, while Dot To Dot Festival gets things started in Manchester at the end of May with Mystery Jets and e Temper Trap headlining. You'll actually be spoilt for choice come May Bank Holiday weekend. SoundCity returns to Liverpool's Docklands, headlined by e Coral and Catfish And e Bottlemen, and there's a newcomer on the scene.. We Luv Festival, takes over Aintree Racecourse on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of May, and it's set to make a big impact on the festival calendar. ey've already announced that Example, UB40, Arrested Development, Rebecca Ferguson, and reigning XFactor winner Louisa Johnson are all on the lineup. I've had a sneaky peek at some more of the names to be released in the build-up, and put it this way: We Luv Festival mean business. Away from the festivals, and inside the arenas and large music venues, there's a takeover happening. Over the next few months, the divas are coming to town. Everyone including Alexandra Burke, Ellie Goulding, Adele, Janet Jackon, and even Mariah Carey are headlining across the North West. Since we know pretty much all there is to know about these reigning Queens of pop (from breakups to breakdown and every weight-change inbetween) I thought I'd introduce you to a couple of local divas in the making. Say hello to Kiera Weathers and Katy Alex. Here come the girls! Ellie Phillips from the Liverpool Echo

Spring 2016

ELLIE PHILLIPS

L IT TLE MIX TUESDAY 22ND M A R C H , THURSDAY 14TH A P R I L , THURSDAY 21ST A P R I L , ECHO ARENA.

Perrie, Jesy, Leigh-Anne and Jad became Little Mix in 2011. ey have sold over 7 million records. With over half a billion YouTube and Vevo views worldwide, they’ve also successfully become one of Britain’s greatest exports with massive tours in the US, Australia and Japan – breaking the Spice Girls’ long-held record of highest debut US chart position for a UK girl group in the process. e ladies have announced a third date at Echo Arena on 21 April due to phenomenal demand for their Get Weird tour 2016.

J ESS GLYNN WEDNESDAY 30T H M A R C H O2 APOLLO MAN C H E S T E R

British singer-songwriter, Jess Glynn, is best known for featuring on Clean Bandit's number one hit single "Rather Be". e fiery red head with a distinctive voice,

rocked the stage a LIMF in Sefton Park last year. So, if you want to party, then this definitely a gig you don't want to miss.

THE DIXIE CHICKS S AT U R DAY 3 0 T H A P R I L M A N C H E S T E R A R E NA

THE B O DYG UA R D STARR I N G ALEXA N D R A B U R K E

Country music queens, e Dixie Chicks take over the Manchester Arena for the first time ever, at the end of April. e trio from Dallas, Texas: Martie, Emily and lead singer Natalie have won 4 American Music Awards, 6 Billboard Awards, and an incredible 13 Grammy Awards to date.

T U E S DAY 2 6 T H A P R I L T O S AT U R DAY 7 T H M AY. T H E E M P I R E T H E AT R E , LIVERPOOL.

e Bodyguard, the award-winning musical based on the blockbuster film, is heading to Liverpool starring three-time Brit nominee and X-Factor winner, ALEXANDRA BURKE as Rachel Marron. Direct from its smash-hit West End run, the show is coming to the Empire eatre. e Bodyguard features a whole host of Whitney Houston's greatest hits including Queen of the Night, So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love,I'm Your Baby Tonight, Run to You, I Have Nothing, Jesus Loves Me, I Wanna Dance With Somebody and one of the greatest hit songs of all time – I Will Always Love You.

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BONNIE RAITT T H E B R I D G E WAT E R H A L L , M A N C H E S T E R 2 6 T H M AY

66 year old American blues singer, songwriter and slide guitar player Bonnie Raitt has sold over 15 millions albums in her lifestime. If a solid 10 Grammy Awards didn't demonstrate her icon status, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. is Dig In Deep tour shows that while she might be 66, she's definitely still got it.

KATY ALEx

KATY ALEX Katy Alex can break your heart with just one song. She has a stunningly emotive voice with a warm, jazzy undertone that's well beyond her years. Her lyrics are raw, real and painfully relatable. Even though she is a tiny, gem of a girl, when she takes to the stage, she confidently commands the audience's attention with a graceful ease that draws you into her. And once she's got you, you're locked in. Later this year, Katy Alex will graduate from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, but Katy hasn't been waiting until graduation to start making her mark. In 2014, she was given a place in the prestigious LIMF Academy. In 2015 she played at every major festival in Liverpool, from Threshold and SoundCity to FarmFeast and The Mersey River Festival and everything in between. In September, Katy performed with Liverpool legends, The Farm, live on stage at The Echo Arena for the With Love From Liverpool charity concert in aid of the Syrian refugees. Katy sang the female vocals in their classic hit "All Together Now" to close the gig hosted by John Bishop and Janice Long. If all of that wasn't enough; at the end of last year, she was crowned the winner of Merseyrail Soundstation 2015. Still only 20 years old, this girl is most definitely going places. Meet the sassy. fast-rising, pop starlet that is Katy Alex.

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KATY ALEx Ellie: How did you first get into music? Katy: When I talk about myself as a musician and where I started. I got all my inspiration from my great-granddad, who played piano and violin. And that’s where I kinda started. It wasn’t until I was about 13 that I started singing, and I was about 15 when I got lessons. en I started doing solo gigs and open mics, and then I got a place at LIPA, which is where the band came together, and Katy Alex really started becoming what it was.

Ellie: What’s LIPA like? A lot of people see it as this allsinging, all-dancing stage school where everyone is doing cartwheels down the hallway. What’s it really like? Katy: You know what sometimes it is like that. ere are some days where everyone is a bit wacky. It is really really great. It’s all the opportunities that come with it. If you need someone, or you need help, or you need to record a song, you’ve got it within an hour, dya know what I mean? All the names and all the people, everyone’s there and they’ve got the contacts that the lecturers and the staﬀ can help you with. It’s just perfect for anyone who wants to be in performing arts. I’m actually working towards the Tube Extra on April 22nd. It’s the LIPA Festival: 8 days of 4 acts going on each night, and it’s what we get marked on for our performer module at LIPA.

Ellie: You’ve not even graduated yet, but you’ve achieved so much already, like being in the LIMF Academy. Katy: Well I was in the class of 2014 with some of the other guys like Xam Volo and Little Grace. I think that really really helped shape Katy Alex, or at least boost awareness I suppose. Some of the really good shows we got oﬀ that, and all of the mentoring and industry help that we got with it were just perfect to guide us in the right direction.

Ellie: at was in 2014, and then last year you became the Merseyrail Sound Station 2015 winner. at must have been a great day! Katy: at was really exciting. e day itself was really long, but it was just perfect. It was great seeing all of the diﬀerent acts, everyone was so diﬀerent from each other. en winning it and being dragged straight over to do a live radio performance was a whirlwind. It’s great because with winning it I get a years worth of mentoring, so I’m looking to get help with PR and pushing promotion and that kind of thing. I also got to do a recording session as well.

Ellie: Talking about recording. You released a very special single at the end of last year, didn’t you? Katy: Yeh, that song was called Light. It was quite a quick turn around to be honest. I only wrote it for songwriting at LIPA, and it just turned out so well, with the Sound Station final coming up we just thought why not give it that extra push? And hopefully the traffic around that final would help the single. It got really well-received by everyone, and we had quite a few plays on Juice haha and a few plays on BBC Introducing too. Ellie: And you’ve been in the studio today haven’t you? Katy: ere’s a guy who graduated from LIPA last summer, and he’s also in a band called Native Kings. He produces at Bold Management. Initially it was just a writing session because I want to work with different producers and finalise a sound that I’m happy with for Katy Alex. But it went so well that we ended up recording a track within 2 days. We finished off all the vocals today, and I’m thinking of keeping hold of that one and release it with a music video as well. at’s the plan I’ve got anyway. Ellie: Outside of Katy Alex, you’ve got other projects too haven’t you? Katy: Yeh I’m in another band called Halem, it’s an electronicpop kind of trio. ere’s me, a drummer (who also plays keys), and another guy who plays the keys too. It’s very Chvrches/Aluna George kind of feel. It’s nice to do something so different to Katie Alex. at came about at the end of December 2014 and that’s been doing really well as well. We’ve got quite a bit of interest from higher industry as well. Ellie: Do you find it difficult balancing both? Katy: I did at first, but it’s not too hard now. When you enjoy both of them so much, it’s hard to not love it, and I love both of them.

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KIERA WEATHERS

KIERA WEATHERS 18 year old Kiera Weathers from St Helens blew audiences away when she sang 'We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off' by Ella Eyre during her xFactor audition last year. Kiera impressed so much that she made it through to the live shows, with Rita Ora as her mentor. When I first met Kiera, at the start of her xfactor journey, I was blown away by her energy. She was bubbly, friendly and talked almost as much as I do. Almost. I was surprised at how confident she was for an 18 year old: 2015 was the year you were in the Xfactor but you’ve been singing forever haven’t you? I started singing, and doing local competitions, when I was about 12 or 13. After that I was kinda like “where do I go now”? So I applied for Britain’s Got Talent a few times, applied for XFactor - didn’t get through. en last year my Grandad said “I’ve got this letter here for an audition for XFactor” and I said to him, “well I haven’t applied this year?” so I was a bit confused. Anyway, while I was at bootcamp my Grandad called me and admitted it was him who’d put me forward. Bless him! Major Grandad points then! Now, for anyone who hasn’t heard you sing yet, how would you describe your sound? I would say I’m soul but with an R&B/pop twist on it. I’m inspired massively by Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Beyonce, Celine Dion and Riannah. Growing up, I always had the Whitney album on in the house while my mum was cleaning. It’s been a while since XFactor finished. How do you look back at your time on the show now? I look back on it as a learning curve. Parts of it I regret, parts of it I wouldn’t take back for the world. I met amazing people and

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completely unfazed by the media attention which had suddenly surrounded her. But, what struck me the most, was how straighttalking Kiera was: she knew exactly what she was signing up to with the xfactor. She was fully aware of her incredible vocal ability, but not boastful in the slightest. Since then, she has taken every high, and every low, completely in her stride. What is lovely to see is that despite the constant public interest in her life, she has remained incredibly down to earth. This girl keeps it real.

I got amazing exposure. I got a taste of what the industry’s really like, and it’s massively spurred me on to wanna go on and kill it even more. What would you say the industry is really like? You have to put a huge amount of work in. I mean it’s a struggle, it’s not easy at all. I mean you can have the best voice in the world but if you ain’t got the full package then it’s harder for people to get to know your name. I’ve come so far out of my comfort zone, but I’ve loved it and it worked out well for me. And the bad side is how anything can be twisted, turned, manipulated, and seen in a diﬀerent light. So, it’s made me realize how you’ve really got to watch what you say, watch what you do, and realize that everything I do is scrutinized basically. So it’s made me realize I’ve got to be really careful, but at the same time still enjoy it and have loads of fun! What have you been up to since the XFactor? Since the show, I’ve been in and out of the studio. I’m going up to Glasgow on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for Roc Nation. And I’m currently on tour with Bars and Melody. We’ve been everywhere: Liverpool, Sheﬃeld, Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow. I’ve still got a few more dates with them in London around April. So it’s really exciting.

KIERA WEATHERS What’s touring like? D’ya know what, it’s so tiring but I love it, seeing all different parts of the cities, and it’s mad how the fans come out. I mean in Bristol, fans from Wales came. It’s amazing! I didn’t realize I’ve got as much support as I’ve got until I’ve been on this tour. It’s crazy. Does it still feel crazy being recognized everywhere you go? Yeh it’s mad, it’s mental. I mean I’m just Kiera from Clock Face you know what I’m like El haha. And now I get stopped all the time for pictures and stuff it’s just mad. Have you had any real pinch yourself moments? I woke up to Boy George following me on Twitter, that was definitely a pinch yourself moment. I absolutely adore Boy George, so I was like, “oh my gahhhd Boy George is following me!” haha! e big question is: have you sent him a DM? No, I’ve not, but I sent him a tweet to say thanks for the follow and stuff like that. Ahh I wanted to get the goss about you DMing him and setting up secret writing or recording sessions haha!! Haha oh El, I wish I wish! What’s next for Kiera Weathers? Already I’m working on some merchandise, on some clothing. Me and my management and agent are putting together my own tour at the end of this year. For me this is a big step. Obviously I’m making my own music now, so this tour at the end of the year will be nothing but me. is is gonna separate the people who are fond of you, and the people who are fans of you. So I’m nervous, but at the same time I’m really excited, I am.

You mentioned your own clothing range. I saw recently that you teamed up with Liverpool designer Jake Nuttall for an amazing photo shoot. Is modeling something you’d do more of? Yeh, I would love to do modeling, I’d love to be the face of a brand. Working with Jake, as you know El, he’s absolutely mental, so we had a ball! Haha! I’ve been wearing all Jake’s dresses to loads of events I’ve been invited to. For me being able to showcase other people’s work as well is great. It’s nice to always help local people out. And I mean the amount of people who ask me about his dresses when I wear them is unreal. Everyone is like “oh my god this dress is gorgeous, who’s it by?” And if that gets his name out, ya know? I mean I didn’t get my name out without people helping me. So if I can do the same, then that’s brilliant. Where do you see yourself in 5 years time? In 5 years time I would love to have at least released a single that gets in the charts, and working on an album. I don’t want to be too ambitious and say like “I’ll have an album out, I’ll be touring” because I think for me to make good music, and something that’s gonna stick in people’s minds, it’s gonna take time. And I’ve got nothing but time. I’m only 18 still, I’m only young so, I just wanna have an EP out, and be working on a really good album.

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FEATURE

Viva la diva!

The North West hosts Adele, Mariah Carey, Ellie Goulding, Little Mix and Janet Jackson

Divas are a bit like buses; you wait for one to turn up and eight come along at once! î &#x17D;is spring, some of THE biggest global songstresses will delight their loyal North West fanbase, as Adele, Mariah Carey, Ellie Goulding, Little Mix and Janet Jackson perform at Manchester Arena and Echo Arena. Simon Grant give us an Exclusive insight into how these global megastars rose to fame. The North West is the hottest ticket in town for any self-respecting music diva right now. Because some of the biggest-selling, awardwinning and exciting female artists of all time are clamouring to perform at our biggest arenas, in what is shaping up to be an incredible spring season of music gigs.

Adele Incredibly, for an artist of her stature, Adele made her Manchester Arena debut in March. Her four-night run of shows were her first in the city for five long years. Adele Laurie Blue Adkins MBE graduated from the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology in 2006, where she was a classmate of Leona Lewis And Jessie J. Her debut album, 19, was released in 2008 and went seven times platinum in the UK, and double platinum in the US. Second album, 21, fared even better, going 16 times platinum in the UK, and is the fourth best-selling album in the UK of all time. It has sold 31 million copies worldwide. It scooped her a recordequalling six Grammy Awards and three American Music Awards. In 2012, she released "Skyfall", which she wrote and recorded for the James Bond film of the same name. î &#x201C;e song won an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, and a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song. After taking a 56

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three-year break, Adele released her third album, 25, in 2015. It broke first week sales records in the UK and the US. Lead single, "Hello", debuted at number one across the globe, and became the first song in the US to sell over one million digital copies within a week of release. With more than 100 million combined singles and albums, Tottenham's finest is now one of the world's best-selling artists.

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M A r i A h C Arey International superstar Mariah Carey also came to Manchester in March as part of her Sweet Sweet Fantasy tour. Returning to Manchester for the first time since her Charmbracelet Tour in 2003, the music icon performed her back catalogue of over 18 number one singles and her biggest hits, including the timeless “Hero”, “Fantasy”, “Always Be My Baby”, and the smash hit “We Belong Together.” e singer, songwriter, record producer and actress rose to prominence after the release of the first single taken from her eponymous debut album in 1990, "Vision of Love". More than two decades later, Rolling Stone described that song as an influence on "virtually every other female R&B singer since the nineties.” roughout her career, Carey has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She is the third-bestselling female artist in the United States, with 63.5 million certified albums. With the release of "Touch My Body" (2008), Carey gained her 18th number-one single in the United States, more than any other solo artist. In 2012, the singer was ranked second on VH1's list of the "100 Greatest Women in Music.” Famed for her fiveoctave vocal range, Mariah has won five Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, 11 American Music Awards, and 14 Billboard Music Awards.

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FEATURE

e l l i e G ouldinG Not content with one North West performance, Ellie Goulding performed at both the Echo Arena in Liverpool and at Manchester Arena this March. Since the release of her debut album Lights in 2010, Elena Jane "Ellie" Goulding has sold over 20 million records. In 2010, she became the second artist to top the BBC's annual Sound Of poll and won the Critics' Choice Award at the Brit Awards. She released Lights in 2010, which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and has sold over 850,000 copies in the UK.

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Second album, Halcyon, debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart and after 65 weeks reached number one. It debuted at number nine on the US Billboard 200. At the 2014 Brit Awards she won British Female Solo Artist. Goulding released her third studio album, Delirium, in 2015, and hit single "Love Me like You Do" bagged the Hereford vocalist her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance and was a worldwide number one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hitting the top spot in 70 countries.

FEATURE

little Mix

JAnet JACkSon

You know when a band or musician are hot property when they add extra dates to an already jam-packed tour schedule. Well, super-group Little Mix shoehorned an extra April date to coincide with their March appearance at the Echo Arena, and they're set to delight Manchester fans no fewer than three times after adding two extra April dates to their March appearance at Manchester Arena. Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade irlwall became Little Mix in 2011 during the eighth series of e X Factor. Since then they have sold over seven million records, had two UK number one singles and two platinum albums DNA and Salute.

Janet Jackson brings her Unbreakable world tour to Manchester Arena in April, making her first Manchester appearance in over 15 years. e US superstar will be performing all her greatest hits, including “Nasty”, “Rhythm Nation”, “at’s e Way Love Goes” and “All For You.” e youngest child of the Jackson family, Janet Damita Jo Jackson has been a music icon for more than 30 years. With sales of more than 160 million records worldwide, she is one of the bestselling artists of all time. Janet's Unbreakable album is a historic re-teaming of the iconic songstress, holder of 46 record chartings, with producer/songwriter superstars Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. It comes on the 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking collaboration on her breakthrough Control album. She's won six Grammys, two Emmys, a Golden Globe and received an Academy Award nomination (for 1994 song “Again”). She also holds the record for the most consecutive top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 by a female artist with 18, and in 2008 Billboard placed her at number seven in its list of the Hot 100 All-Time Top Artists.

Little Mix have become one of Britain’s most successful exports, with massive tours in the US, Australia and Japan – breaking the Spice Girls’ long-held record of highest debut US chart position for a UK girl group in the process. e girls will be performing tracks from their brand new album Get Weird, including the smash hit “Black Magic.” e fourpiece have racked up a string of awards en route to stardom, including a Cosmo Ultimate Woman Award, a Glamour Women Of e Year Award and Breakout Artist at the Teen Choice Awards in Los Angeles. Spring 2016

ErIC BrISTOw

Eric Bristow

The Crafty Cockney I had the pleasure of interviewing the legendary darts champion Eric Bristow MBE at Shooters Bar in The Bierkeller Entertainment Complex, Liverpool One. He shared some great insights in to his life and career with Exclusive readers:

by Camille Allcroft 60

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ErIC BrISTOw Why did you take up darts and what is your earliest memory of playing the game? I took up darts because my father was a darts player, he bought me a dartboard on my 11th birthday and put it in my bedroom. I was very good at maths…I like maths, I was good at maths and diﬀerent numbers always intrigued me. Did you take to the game the first time you played it? My Dad tried me at everything, loads of things. I was good at it aged 11, but I did not realise how good I was. By the time I was 14 he said ‘right, you’re ready’ and he took me down to the pub! Was that your first experience of playing it in that environment at the age of 14? Yes, I was tall so I was lucky! It was proper pub hours then 122, not all day like it is now. It was a proper pub, it was six pence a game and my dad just sat there and watched me. I played all day and won every game. at was it, they signed me up for the darts team, I was tall so I got away with it really! Would you say that from the instant you began playing, everyone noticed that you had a raw talent for darts? Yes I was brilliant at 14, I was a freak. It was an old people’s game, it wasn’t a young person’s game. It was a middle aged game that people used to play on their night oﬀ. ey played for a darts team once a week and it was just a socialising game really.

What do you regard as the pinnacle of your career? e first time you win the World Championship is the one, you always want to be World Champion. I had won lots of world titles before that, but not World Championships…that was the only one missing even though I had won lots of other world titles before that one. So the world championship was the one you were hungry for? I was favourite the first two years I took part and I lost, so I was just glad to get there in the end! When I won it was not the best game I had ever played, but it meant the most. e first time you become World Champion, you feel you have achieved what you wanted to.

What would you say attracted you to the game of darts? I just wanted to win, I used to play team games with my school, I used to play football for my school, cricket for my school, swim for my school…but with darts it was an individual game, whereas if you play well in a football team you can still lose.

What does that moment feel like, when you know you have won? Money can’t buy that, all that practicing for hours and hours has paid oﬀ. en again, you can get a darts player who can practice for eight hours a day and he won’t become World Champion. ere has got be some raw talent and ability.

So you were naturally sporty across the board and darts was your main passion? Yes, absolutely.

You are widely credited for turning darts in to a spectator sport. How do you think the game diﬀers now in comparison to then?

Who would you say was your toughest opponent?

It is the same now, it is brilliant now. I love it now. You have got a few characters now and that is what we did not want to lose. Obviously I was a character, Jocky Wilson was a character. We just did not want the players becoming robots, but when money comes in to a sport you usually get the robots and that is what killed snooker. No personalities come through in the end when they are just there for the money.

In my era there were two, John Lowe and Jocky Wilson. ey were both tough. Lowe was consistent and Jocky was dangerous, he would go 45, 45 then 180 you did not know what he was going to do. John was steady, if you played well against John you would beat him but with Jocky you just didn’t know what he was going to turn up. Which is good, it was good for the game.

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ErIC BrISTOw What would you say is the biggest downside of fame? ere is no downside for me, I enjoy every second of it. With regards to becoming wealthier as a result of your success, how did that aﬀect you? Well, in my day it wasn’t anything like the money that darts players are earning now, but I was never skint. e best thing about it all was travelling the world at my age. I travelled the world from age 17.

So for you it was more about passion rather than money? Yes, for me it was about the love of the game. ere is a player at the moment Michael van Gerwen, he reminds me of myself and he started at the same age as well. It is in his blood, that’s all he knows. He just wants to win, he doesn’t care about the prize money. What was your favourite place to play? When I first won my World Championship I played at a famous nightclub near where I lived called Jollies, I won my first World Championship there. It was great as I never had to stay in a hotel when I played there, I could go home. What do you think is the secret of your success, how much do you think that your mind-set can help you to triumph? e love of the game, success, stubbornness and determination not to lose. Anyone can lose, show me a good loser and I will show you a loser. at does not mean that you should be a really bad loser, but you should be annoyed with yourself. Do you still have that same hunger today? No, not anymore but I still love the game. I don’t play competitively now but I play fun things. I have retired now, I have just been working on the Isle of Wight for a couple of days. How did fame aﬀect you? I was lucky because I became famous at a young age, I was always talked about from when I was 14. I feel sorry for some of these people who have normal lives, then all of a sudden they become famous and they do not know how to handle it. People have always looked at me when I am in the room.

What is your favourite destination that you have visited? Lots of them, I love Las Vegas and there is a little place in Canada called Penticton which is beautiful, there is a hotel which looks out over a great lake and there are mountains on either side. It is the middle of nowhere, a beautiful place. I love Canada and America, New Zealand and Australia…I had a private jet in Australia! You have just mentioned a private jet, were there any moments in your career where you just had to pinch yourself, how have you remained down to earth? I am down to earth, I take everything as it comes really and just enjoy the moment. I was very fortunate to travel when I was younger, there are people who have worked all their lives wanting to travel the world and then something may happen which means they cannot do it. What would be the main piece of advice you would give to somebody aspiring to be a darts champion now? Just enjoy it, enjoy the game you play and just try your best. You can only go as far as you can, it is alright having a dream, but there are millions of people who may never get their dream. Chase the dream. You mentored Phil Taylor with a significant amount of money, how important was it to you to mentor another darts player? I paid for him to go all over the world for four years. I couldn’t let my darts go, so for a bit of fun I wanted to see if I could train another player to be a darts champion, it was a challenge. I didn’t think he would win that many titles! Are you still close to him now? No, we hardly talk now but it doesn’t matter, it’s no big deal!

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ErIC BrISTOw Who would you say was your closest friend amongst your darts contemporaries?

What would you say if you had to highlight anything which is wrong with the game of darts now?

Loads of them, I do a lot of work with Keith Deller who beat me in the 1983 final. I am friends with lots of them including some of the pro players at the moment, James Wade and I like Dave Chisnall he is a nice guy. Most of them I get on well with.

Nothing wrong with it at all, it is going a great way. It has always been big all over the world and there is still a big world circuit now. When I first played in the World Cup aged 19, we had 44 countries involved in the World Cup then. at was in 1979, so that is how big the game has always been. It just wasn’t always promoted correctly but now the BBC have taken darts all over the world.

Would you say that camaraderie plays a big part in the sport? No, there is no camaraderie in this sport. You can’t get too close to your competitors, sometimes you are playing for £20,000£30,000 prize money. ere is no line to be drawn, they are the enemy that is what I try to get through to some of the players now.

You played to some tough crowds in your time but would you say that the showmanship of your style ultimately won you support? ey either loved me or they hated me, but I did not care, it did not matter because they were not going to throw my darts for me and they were never going to put me off. A lot of people would be put off by something like that, but the shouting and hollering never put me off. Sometimes I would turn around and tell them to shout louder! In the end if you play well, they will respect you.

You go back a long way with Liverpool as a city, how do you feel it has changed now? I used to play for Merseyside and it is great to see how much the city has grown and developed. I used to play at Sam’s Club on Mill Street in Toxteth. I have made a lot of friends here over the years and some of them have come here to Shooters Bar today to see me play. I played for Merseyside when the Hillsborough Disaster happened, the next weekend we played a charity match to raise money. Liverpudlians stick together, which is why I love them. Do you enjoy life more now that you are retired? I have had a great life, the richest man in the world could not have had a better life than me. My job has always been in the pub, travelling the world, playing darts and getting paid for it!

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Around The World Bar and Lounge in Liverpool has the

X Factor

round e World Bar and Lounge situated in the heart of Liverpool One hosted a VIP party to celebrate their newly refurbished venue. e glittering party was attended by a host of stars from the acting, sports, music and fashion industries. Guests were treated to fabulous cocktails, champagne and canapés. e highlight of the evening was a special live performance from X Factor star, Anton Stephans. Anton Stephans has a strong bond with the city and said, "I am delighted to be back in Liverpool which is one of my favourite cities. I am thrilled to be performing at the launch of the Around e World Bar and Lounge for my friend Paul Knowles at PK Agency. e fact that the event is raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support only makes it more special, as this is a charity which is close to my heart". Around e World Bar serves good quality fresh food, cocktails from around the world and live entertainment. 64

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Around e World Bar & Lounge 6 omas Steers Way Liverpool L1 8LW 08455 333 000

FEATURE

Stars turn out for re-launch of Bellini Liverpool Liverpool’s glitterati gathered for the re-launch party of Bellini Liverpool recently marking the introduction of a new food and drink menu inspired by Head Chef and owner Luca. e Italian restaurant and bar located next to the Metquarter served Bellini signature cocktails followed by an array of canapés to the specially invited guests which included Frankie Essex, Charlotte Dawson, Amanda Harrington, Tina Malone, Rachael Rhodes, Layla Flaherty, James Hill, Kurtis Stacey, Mark Bryon, James Sutton and several of his Hollyoaks cast mates. e relaunch heralded the next chapter for the contemporary Italian restaurant and bar, as well as the introduction of the new décor and general feel of the venue. Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta are all fresh and available at Bellini alongside seafood, steaks and a range of specials including gluten free options. e bar area serves a selection of handcrafted cocktails and fine wines sourced from Italian vineyards, which guests enjoyed throughout the evening. Bellini Restaurant & Cocktail Bar 53 Whitechapel Liverpool L1 6DT Tel : 0151 236 0411

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Spring Wining & Dining We may be waiting for the weather to warm up but spring is definitely in the air at some of the region’s best restaurants. ere is certainly no shortage of culinary gems that will tantalise your taste buds this spring. e region’s best chefs will have been racking their brains and searching through the very best culinary literature to come up with

some seasonal dishes to delight the palate of their diners. In the following pages we will guide you through some of our personal favourites and we are pretty sure they won’t disappoint. Bon Apetit Camille Allcroft , Exclusive Magazines Food and Drink editor has personally dined and reviewed each restaurant included in our Wining and Dining section.

BELLini LivERpooL

Bellini Liverpool

ne thing there is no shortage of in Liverpool city centre is good Italian restaurants, but until recently I had not dined at Bellini, a selfproclaimed hidden gem which is situated right in the heart of Liverpool in a convenient location close to Liverpool One. Open from lunchtime until late every day, Bellini serves a traditional menu of hearty Italian fare such as pizza and pasta as well as specials, seafood and steak. e produce used is carefully sourced and seasonal and local provenance ingredients are used where possible. Pasta is made from scratch on site and there is a good choice of dishes on the menu created by Head Chef Luca. e first impression you get when walking in to the restaurant is how bright and airy the space is, with large windows, high ceilings, a neutral colour scheme and a bar area with an eye-catching light display. Vases of fresh flowers add a touch of colour and in the evening tables are candlelit creating a cosy ambience. ere are plenty of sophisticated dishes on the menu, such as lobster ravioli, sautéed king prawns and chicken with blue cheese sauce as well as all the Italian favourites you would expect including lasagne and spaghetti with meatballs. e 68

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restaurant is named after the cocktail which is one of its bestsellers and Bellini also serves a range of other cocktails such as Manhattan, Margarita and Negroni. We started the meal with a cheese topped garlic bread which was crispy and delicious with just the right balance of garlic and melted cheese. For the main course I was eager to try the fresh pasta, so I opted for the signature dish penne Bellini consisting of penne pasta with a chargrilled breast of chicken and vegetables in a cream cheese sauce. e sauce was rich with just the right hint of cheese and the vegetables and tender chicken complemented this dish perfectly, which was finished oﬀ with a good sprinkling of parmesan. e wine list at Bellini is impressive with a selection of carefully chosen reds, whites, rosé and sparkling varieties all available. We sipped an excellent Barolo which was a deep, dry red with plenty of spice and a touch of rose and this went well with our choice of food. My dining companion enjoyed the pizza bomba topped with tomato, mozzarella, ham, speck, pepperoni and bacon. is authentic style pizza was thin and crispy with a good range of flavours from the generous amount of toppings.

BELLini LivERpooL We decided on a dessert platter to share as we were spoiled for choice from a menu which has a good range of sweet treats to choose from. e panna cotta was light and delicate whilst the profiteroles had perfect choux pastry and a rich cream filling topped with an indulgent chocolate sauce. e trio of desserts was rounded off by a wedge of fresh strawberry cheesecake which had a golden biscuit base with a thick and creamy layer and a strawberry topping which was not too sweet. We rounded the meal off with coffee and after dinner cocktails as we relaxed and soaked up the cool and spacious ambience of the restaurant. Bellini does classic Italian food well and the chefs show finesse in the subtle flavour profiles of their comforting dishes and freshly made pizza and pasta. ere is a good balance to the menu, with classics making an appearance alongside dishes with a contemporary slant. ere is a children’s menu available as well as lunch and early evening deals and the central location makes this the ideal place to dine when in the city centre. e elegant bar area has a welcoming feel and this is a good place to drop in to for a cocktail or a glass of wine and some of the excellent antipasti, bruschetta and charcuterie available. Italian food is often on the hearty side, but there are plenty of lighter options on the Bellini menu such as caprese, Caesar and prawn salad varieties and gluten free pasta is available too. e restaurant has already carved out a niche for itself and is quickly gaining a reputation for Italian comfort food and a good cocktail and wine menu. For a chic and stylish bar and restaurant with plenty to offer, Bellini is a worthy addition to the Liverpool dining scene. Bellini 53 Whitechapel Liverpool L1 6DT 0151 236 0411

Spring 2016

SAN CARLO LIVERPOOL

Classic Italian charm San Carlo Liverpool

an Carlo Liverpool is one of those places which is definitely regarded as somewhere to be seen. It is located right in the heart of the business district on Castle Street, and it is the first choice for many high profile people in the city when they want to dine out due to its reputation for classic and authentic Italian food. î &#x201C;ere is a contemporary and open feeling to the space, with a brightly lit bar area which gives way to a restaurant which has a traditional and elegant atmosphere. Chalk board menus on the walls provide a rustic feeling, whilst waiters whirl around balancing plates and glasses with impressive skill. We arrived to find the restaurant bustling and there was a lively ambience in the air which felt warm and welcoming. We took our seats and perused the menu at length, deciding

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by Camille Allcroft

on a garlic bread with cheese and tomato to start with. î &#x201C;e bread was both crispy and doughy with plenty of flavour from the toppings of rich melted cheese, tangy garlic and sweet tomato. For the main course I had the southern Italian classic pasta alla Norma; large tubes of fresh rigatoni with aubergines, tomatoes, basil, garlic and pecorino cheese. It is easy to see why this dish is popular in Italy as it is a true comfort food classic with heaps of satisfying flavour. My dining companion chose the pizza rusticana piccante topped with Calabrian Nduja sausage, pepperoni, Tuscan sausage, chilli, tomato and rocket. î &#x201C;e pizza was a good size and the toppings complemented each other, with a meaty depth from the sausage and Nduja and a good kick of fire from the chilli whilst the rocket brought in a welcome peppery freshness.

SAN CARLO LIVERPOOL

For dessert we decided on two sweet indulgences to share between us. e sacher cake was an excellent homemade cake with a rich chocolate topping which went well with the ice cream it was served with. We also shared a traditional apple tart accompanied by a glass of Moscato dessert wine, which was a nice touch. e tart itself had a buttery pastry crust and a sweet and sharp apple topping which was very good. We sat back and relaxed over the meal, soaking up the vibrant and fun atmosphere of the restaurant which got even busier as the night went on. What this restaurant does well is to evoke an Italian ambience which is slightly theatrical. Dining at San Carlo almost feels like it is as much about entertainment as it is about food, which is no bad thing as the whole experience is enjoyable. e food shines equally well and there is a good balance of flavours in each dish.

Standards are high and the whole environment feels stylish with plenty of polish to both food and service. It is not diﬃcult to see why San Carlo has become firmly established on the Italian restaurant scene and there is plenty of substance as well as style to this firm favourite.

San Carlo 41 Castle St Liverpool L2 9SH 0151 236 0073 www.sancarlo.co.uk/liverpool

Spring 2016

The Exchange Restaurant Liverpool At Hilton Hotel by Camille Allcroft

he Exchange Restaurant is situated in e Hilton in Liverpool, which is somewhere I walk past most days and I often go for a drink in the Pima bar within the hotel. For some reason however, I had never got around to dining at e Exchange until recently when I went along on a chilly February evening looking forward to some delicious food to warm me up! e menu focuses on a modern European style of cuisine, with soup of the day and grill options such as steaks available alongside dishes including rondelle of salmon and Moroccan chicken supreme. We were warmly welcomed and seated at a table by the window which aﬀorded us a great view of the outside world. e aesthetic of the restaurant features ambient pink 72

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lighting, candlelit tables and sweeping windows which give an open aspect which still feels intimate and cosy. A bread board was brought to us with a selection of crusty rolls and butter, a simple touch which I always appreciate and see as a good sign in any restaurant. e bread was fresh and doughy and the choice of rolls was an enjoyable way to start the evening. As I sipped a glass of chilled prosecco, I browsed the menu and selected pan fried scallops on oriental prawn salad for my starter, which was plated up in a fine dining style. e generous portion of scallops were sweet and fleshy whilst the prawns were juicy and the oriental salad added freshness and depth of flavour. My dining companion enjoyed beetroot carpaccio served with chilli, orange and asparagus salad which was a refreshing and summery dish with subtle and zesty flavours.

ThE ExChANgE

e Exchange Restaurant Hilton Liverpool City Centre 3 omas Steers Way Liverpool L1 8LW 0151 708 4300

For the main course I indulged in the parmesan coated chicken supreme which was served in a large portion accompanied by a pancetta and sage potato cake and a rocket pesto dressing. e parmesan crumb was crispy and golden with plenty of cheese, the chicken beneath was cooked to succulent perfection and the potato cake added a comforting touch to the plate which was perfect for such a wintry day. My dining companion chose 8oz fillet of beef which was cooked just right and the simple accompaniments of tomato and mushroom worked well, whilst the béarnaise sauce was thick and tasty. We shared chunky cut chips and a medley of vegetables which were the ideal choice alongside the two excellent mains. e array of desserts on oﬀer was good and we settled on a couple of choices, one of which of course had to involve chocolate! A portion of tiramisu was lighter than air and not overpowering in terms of flavour, with creamy layers and a simple strawberry garnish whilst the other choice of chocolate brownie with banana ice cream was a rich and decadent delight with plenty of icing atop a moreish slab of brownie. e restaurant got very busy as the evening wore on but the service was attentive and pleasant and we were checked on regularly. e Exchange Restaurant feels elegant and contemporary and the menus are well developed, translating in to delicious and satisfying dishes with a good choice of meat, seafood and vegetarian options.

Spring 2016

A holiday at home The Club House Liverpool

by Camille Allcroft

anuary is a dreary month after the festivities of the holiday season, so I was delighted to hear that e Club House was set to open in Liverpool One with a look inspired by the classic architecture found in the Hamptons. e imposing restaurant and bar is operated by e New World Trading Company and the beautiful building has been created with a crisp beach house style in mind, evoking sandy shores and a sense of history. Trees twinkle with fairy lights outside whilst deck chairs and an innovative outdoor kitchen create a feeling of transatlantic cool. e architecture and interior design was undertaken by Paul Danson Imagineering, an international design company specialising in conceptual architecture and interior from inception to completion. Paul Danson explained “I wanted to develop a building firstly that would be a strong stand alone design statement and secondly a destination landmark for the city of Liverpool. Not just another

chain rollout! I thought about a building which had a connection to the close proximity of the site to the sea, something romantic and themed with a great history and strong story line.’’ As you step inside a lofty ceiling opens above the grandiose staircase and a huge sparkling chandelier made of reclaimed glasses conjures up a fairytale charm. Nautical ephemera, artwork and even the odd alligator decorate the walls whilst floral patterned armchairs, bookcases and potted trees create a charming homely feel.

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After a guided tour around the extensive space and the outdoor terrace we took our seats for dinner. I sipped a Pina Colada to continue that holiday feeling as we enjoyed flatbread and olives and a deli board of couscous, hummus, chorizo and coronation chicken. I chose cauliflower cheese pie for the main course which had crusty pastry and a rich cheese flavour oﬀset by tangy gherkins and pickled onions. is was served with accompaniments of mashed potatoes, mushy peas and HP sauce to create a dish which was a pure comfort food classic.

ThE CLubhOuSE LIVERPOOL

My dining companion chose the chicken hanging kebab which tasted as good as it looked, with a large skewer of chicken and chargrilled vegetables drizzled with butter and served with crispy fries. Golden battered onion rings and cheesy chips provided the ideal finishing touches to the meal and we sipped an excellent Penzolo Trebbiano which was dry and refreshing. We cast our eye over the dessert menu and settled on a decadent duo of sweet treats. My sticky toﬀee pudding with vanilla ice cream was a classic done well, with a springy and tasty sponge topped with rivers of divine toﬀee sauce. My dining companion enjoyed a wedge of warm chocolate fudge cake drenched with thick chocolate sauce and served with vanilla ice cream. Strains of soft piano music floated up to greet us as we sashayed downstairs and settled at the bar where we chatted to the friendly team and I sipped a sweet and refreshing mojito with plenty of fresh mint and a good kick of rum. We heard all about the process of creating cocktails on draught and how popular they were already proving to be. e sweeping bar area conjures up the classic charm of a bygone era and it is

the ideal place to relax over a few cocktails before or after dinner. e Club House is a large and lofty space yet it manages to feel cosy and intimate thanks to the interior design and warm lighting. Despite the restaurant being brand new the whole place has a charming warmth which feels welcoming and homely, whilst conjuring up distant shores. Blending a sense of escapism with casual dining, live music and a stunning interior design aesthetic e Club House certainly ticks every box.

e Club House Chavasse Park Liverpool One L2 9SQ 0151 709 5366 www.theclubhouse.uk.com

Spring 2016

RED D OOR LIVERPOOL

Red Door Liverpool by Camille Allcroft

ed Door Liverpool is located on Berry Street in the middle of an area full of places to both wine and dine. e bar has a twin in Chester, and the Liverpool location is set to celebrate its first birthday at the end of February. Red Door in Liverpool has already carved out a niche for itself and deservedly so, with many excellent cocktails on the menu and a real eye for attention to detail including the infusion of certain syrups in house to create the cocktails. e menu design is quirky and cool, with each cocktail having a description with a little dose of dry humour. I was invited along to sample some of the most popular choices and I was eager to get in to the cosy warmth of the bar as it was such a dismal night outside with torrential rain sheeting down. Inside, a warm welcome awaited me

and there was a log fire crackling away merrily in the hearth opposite the exposed brick wall which twinkled with votive candles. e aesthetic of Red Door is very atmospheric in a way which does not feel forced, with low lights, comfortable booths and the eponymous red door embedded in the wall beneath a neon sign spelling out the name. e vast wooden bar has a mesmerising selection of spirits and equipment to create the cocktails, including mason jars filled with various ingredients. e first cocktail for me to sample was Mrs Jones, a refreshing blend of grapefruit, elderflower, gin, Aperol and lemon juice served with a dusting of sugar around the rim and a garnish of orange. is was a zesty delight with plenty of bite and sweetness, perfect to brighten up a chilly winter evening. Next up was a favourite of mine which always conjures up swaying palm trees

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and tropical shores, the French Martini, which is in my opinion a true classic and this was made really well with plenty of strong flavour and an elegant presentation with delicious foam on top. I have sampled e Old Smokey before at Red Door and I had not forgotten the theatrical delights of this cocktail, which involves a lot of preparation. A classic bourbon old fashioned smoked with oak, this is billed as ‘an experience for whiskey lovers old and new’ and I would certainly agree with this summation. Watching the wood chips being smoked before your eyes is really something and the resulting clouds of smoke add to the depth of flavour which makes this cocktail something special. Rise and Shine was next on the agenda, which is a blend of gin, blueberry jam, bergamot infusion, lemon juice and crème de mure which is heated up

RED D OOR LIVERPOOL

Mixed with this was pineapple, grapefruit and passionfruit juices as well as grenadine and lime juice. Wow! ere is a reason why this is called e Sucker Punch as it certainly packs a punch with plenty of strong and delicious flavour. Considering this is designed to be shared between a group of 8 people, the gargantuan size seems acceptable and there is also a Strawberry Fizz variety available.

and friendly, which is one of the many reasons why this bar is busy on most nights. ere is also a cosy outdoor covered terrace complete with heaters, blankets and candle lanterns and this can be hired out for private parties. Red Door really does have it all and it feels like the kind of bar you just don’t want to leave.

at was the end of my cocktail sampling for the evening and I was fortunate to try so many of the delicious concoctions on oﬀer at Red Door. e bar team have an impressive knowledge of the recipes and history of cocktails and they are very attentive

Red Door Liverpool 21-23 Berry Street, Liverpool L1 9DF 0151 709 7040 www.reddoor.uk.com

before your eyes and served in a beaker. I loved this cocktail and I appreciated its sense of humour too, this is the type of breakfast which certainly beats toast and jam! Lastly it was time to try one of the show stopping sharing cocktails which are hugely popular at Red Door. My eyes widened as a giant glitter ball was prepared filled with Rebellion Rum, Goslings Black Seal, Santa Teresa Orange Liqueur, La Fée Absinthe Parisienne and Luxardo Maraschino.

Spring 2016

A contemporary taste of India

Ziya Asian gril

by Camille Allcroft

s the name suggests, ‘Curry Mile’ in Manchester is an area famed for its Indian food. e vast selection of restaurants on this stretch of road means that it can be diﬃcult to find the best, with several that can only be described as mediocre. I was delighted to be invited to Ziya Asian Grill recently, as I had already dined at Ziya before and as soon as I was invited back it conjured up memories of their authentic Indian food, which is made to traditional recipes. I am a big fan of curry and I think that there is no more convivial way of dining than to gather a group of friends around a table heaped with delicious Indian food. ere are so many restaurants with lurid neon signs in the area, but Ziya stands quietly unassuming amongst them with a muted exterior and a subtle and contemporary design aesthetic which creates a great impression as soon as you peer through the large windows. Inside, the theme continues with a stylish bar area, marble surfaces and feature lighting as well as a spotless open kitchen where several chefs whirl around seamlessly tending to flaming pans and the traditional tandoor oven. We were warmly welcomed by Jane who runs the restaurant, and we took our seats at a table overlooking the kitchen, where a busy service was underway and trays of fresh poppadoms were piling up on the pass, which we indulged in alongside a variety of tasty house chutneys. We decided to share a selection of starters so that we could try a few diﬀerent dishes. Peshwari lamb chops were tender and marinated in a subtle blend of spices, with juicy meat which 78

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just fell away from the bone, whilst the vegetable samosas were crispy and subtly spiced. e onion bhajis were moreish with heaps of satisfying onion filling which was sweet and spicy and we also enjoyed an order of paneer tikka, a North Indian dish with spiced paneer grilled to perfection in the tandoor. For the main course we continued the theme of sharing, by ordering three curries. e makhini chicken was perfection with lots of rich and aromatic spices, butter and creamy sauce and we broke apart a pillow soft garlic naan bread which complemented the delicate spices of the sauce so well. An order of dal makhini was equally good, a vegetarian dish consisting of curried black gram beans in a medium spiced butter sauce. is was a favourite of mine last time at Ziya and you really do not miss meat in this dish, as it has so much flavour. When it comes to Indian dishes most people

ZIyA MANChESTER are familiar with chicken korma, but Ziya have put their own spin on this classic by creating a saffron chicken korma with tender chicken flavoured with saffron and cooked in a thick sauce of ground almonds, coconut and cream. ere was so much subtlety to this dish and although I often find korma can be too sweet for my taste, I found this one had a good balance. We shared a Peshwari naan bread which was soft and doughy, with a divine filling of almond, pistachio, coconut, cardamom and fennel seeds. is sweet and aromatic bread is such a delicacy and I think it pairs well with spicy foods. A side order of fluffy basmati rice went well with the curries and we sipped a mango and pineapple lassi which counterbalanced the spicy food so well. Time for dessert was met with the token sigh of protest for the sake of pride, before we ordered several desserts to share. Chocolate bomb, limoncello pot and pistachio gelato were all sweet treats after the meal but the outstanding dish was the beetroot halwa which I had never tried before. is traditional Indian dessert consists of beetroot cooked with clarified butter, milk, sugar and cardamom. is little dish was real showstopper and it completely transformed the humble beetroot, which I am not usually a fan of. It was time to go backstage to meet the chefs, who were so welcoming and friendly. I always love to watch chefs at work and Ziya has such a busy kitchen which is run with polished organisation and lots of smiling faces. e aromas filling the air are irresistible and even when you have just eaten it is possible to still feel hungry when on a Ziya kitchen tour! Service, presentation and food is all excellent at Ziya which is why it stands out by a mile amongst its neighbours for all the right reasons. e final treat the night had in store for us was traditional masala tea which was light and fragrant with a spicy flavour which served as a perfect palate cleanser after so much good food. We lingered for several hours enjoying the food and the ambience accompanied by lots of laughter and chatter and I cannot wait to dine at Ziya again, where a simple curry is elevated to a fine dining style experience.

Ziya 65-67 Wilmslow Road Manchester M14 5TB 0161 257 2010 www.ziyarestaurant.co.uk

Spring 2016

AustrAlAsiA

Australasia Manchester by Camille Allcroft

hen it comes to fusion it can feel as though we have seen it all before, and it is diﬃcult to come across a fusion restaurant which manages to successfully meld diﬀerent styles of cuisine. I have been eager to dine at Australasia for some time, which is part of the Living Ventures group and draws on laid back Australian influences combined with Indonesian, South East Asian and European inspiration. ere is an abundance of sushi on the menu as well as dishes cooked on the robata grill and big plates such as pot roasted lobster and corn fed chicken. e striking entrance is the first thing which makes Australasia feel like a truly special dining experience, it is

reached through an angular glass doorway which leads to a staircase where you go ‘down under’ in to another world. e restaurant opens up before you at the foot of the staircase, with a stylish bar area on one side and an interior design aesthetic which immediately creates a feeling of relaxation. Opulence and elegance are conveyed by sophisticated cool colours, bleached trees, candle lanterns, exposed brickwork and a mellow soundtrack. I arrived feeling frazzled after a somewhat fraught journey, but I was immediately soothed upon walking in to this oasis of calm. ere was a lunchtime menu available but I was recommended to order from the main menu for a wider selection of options. ere was so much choice on oﬀer and I decided on tiger prawns, chicken skewers and

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vegetable nigiri for a good combination of flavours. I sipped a glass of crisp Chardonnay, soaked up the atmosphere and relaxed whilst a steady trade of lunchtime customers poured in to the restaurant. ere is a brightly lit open kitchen at the end of the dining room, where you can see the busy team of chefs hard at work. e grilled black tiger prawns were simply presented, and served with a garnish of fresh lime which allowed the sweet and juicy flesh of the giant prawns to shine without being overpowered. It is amazing how meaty and satisfying prawns can be when they are prepared in just the right way, and these were so good. An order of ginger and lemongrass chicken skewers were succulent and tasty with a great balance of zesty flavours and a dusting of sesame seeds. ese skewers had such an aromatic depth to them and they reminded me of summer, barbecues, sunshine and everything good in life!

AustrAlAsiA e selection of vegetable nigiri were served with fresh wasabi and soy dipping sauce. One of the keys to great nigiri is perfectly sticky rice and the rice in these was done just right whilst the vegetables were fresh and tasty and clear chopsticks added a touch of fun. After such excellent small plates I wanted a dessert which would be equally subtle and complement the flavours I had already enjoyed, which I found upon ordering the brown sugar parfait with caramel and pâté de fruits which was a revelation. is dessert had a perfect balance of taste and texture, with a parfait which was light with just a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar. Biscuit crumbs contrasted well with the smoothness of the parfait and the scattering of flower petals brought a touch of the orient to the plate. e delicate flavours of the food at Australasia work in harmony with the surroundings for a sensory experience which left me feeling rejuvenated. ere are large private booths which would make the ideal hideaways for a celebratory meal and the feeling of everything about the restaurant is discreet and polished. e grace of Australasia is that it manages to be minimal and understated without being self-conscious, delivering a winning blend of style and substance. It does not need to shout from the rooftops how great it is, because the excellence of both the food and service does the talking. Combining relaxed Australian influences with an exotic flair is no easy feat, yet this cool customer manages it with ease.

Australasia the Avenue, spinningﬁelds, Manchester M3 3AP 0161 831 0288 www.australasia.uk.com Spring 2016

tOWN GrEEN BrAssEriE

Town Green Brasserie by Camille Allcroft

estled in the village of Aughton in Lancashire, Town Green Brasserie is a gastro pub which forms part of the award winning Seafood Pub Company. We arrived at lunchtime on a Saturday and I was eager to try the food I had already heard so much about. As the name suggests, Seafood Pub Company prides itself on menus featuring plenty of seafood alongside sandwiches, pasta and grill dishes. After a warm welcome from General Manager Dan, we were led to a cosy table for two where we perused the extensive menu. e stylish interior design includes wood panelling, display wine cases, a fireplace and framed antique style prints which create a rustic ambience. I immediately decided on haddock and chips with mushy peas, tartare sauce and lemon although I was tempted by many of the other dishes including a special of cod loin with lentils. I sipped a crisp Pinot Grigio from the Via Nova region of Italy, which had notes of citrus and peach and a soft finish. is was the perfect choice to complement my fish and chips, as it was a light and refreshing wine. e haddock and chips was quite a sight to behold when it was set before me, the sheer gargantuan size of the fish

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meant that it could scarcely fit on the plate, no bad thing in my opinion! e melt in the mouth golden batter gave way to reveal tender and flaky fish which was enhanced by a smooth tartare sauce with a sharp hit of capers. e mushy peas were equally good with a thick texture and plenty of flavour, which worked well with the other components of the meal and the ‘proper chips’ were exactly that, hand cut, chunky and fried to golden perfection. It is amazing what a gourmet experience even a dish as simple as fish and chips can be when it is done really well, and this was easily one of the best I have ever eaten. My dining companion chose the 10oz rump steak of 28 day dry-aged Lancashire grass fed beef, served with watercress, onion rings, proper chips and pepper sauce. e steak was perfectly cooked to his preference of medium rare and the meat was tender and juicy with a deep intensity of flavour. e use of a robata grill was reflected in the taste of the steak which was rounded oﬀ by the silky pepper sauce which had a subtle enough flavour to allow the steak to shine. e leafy watercress added fresh and piquant qualities to the dish whilst crispy battered onion rings and proper chips were the ideal companions to the juicy steak. Deliberating over the dessert menu took some time, with the traditional favourite of jam roly poly with proper custard

tOWN GrEEN BrAssEriE

catching my eye before I settled on spiced orange crème brûlée with ginger snaps. e sign of a good crème brûlée is that perfect solid top which cracks beneath the spoon as this one did, revealing a creamy layer full of fragrant and spicy orange flavour which was light and zesty. e fresh ginger snaps sat well with this dessert and added further texture. My dining companion chose an indulgent chocolate mousse which was not too sweet, with a delicate chocolate flavour complemented by the garnish of smashed honeycomb and the sprinkling of fresh raspberries. e cheeseboard also sounded tempting, which featured a mixture of British and European cheeses with grapes, crackers and chutney. We lingered for a while after our meal, reluctant to leave the friendly warmth of the pub to venture back in to the cold January afternoon. Town Green Brasserie is a rare find, a gastro pub where the food and service are excellent and the atmosphere successfully combines the homely feel of a country pub with the sophistication and menus of a restaurant.

Town Green Brasserie Aughton, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 6SE 01695 420 883 www.seafoodpubcompany.com/town-green Spring 2016

ABOdE ChEstEr

A cuisine with finesse by Camille Allcroft

Michael Caines Restaurant at Abode Chester

e historic city of Chester is somewhere I always enjoy visiting and there is an increasingly impressive selection of restaurants on offer when dining out in the area. I recently went along to sample Michael Caines restaurant, which is located on the fifth floor of the Abode Hotel close to the racecourse. I was seated by the sweeping window which gave me a stunning panorama of the racecourse and the distant hills. e view had already got things off to a good start and I perused the à la carte menu which had many tempting choices. e interior design is stylish and understated with neutral tones and a spacious feeling to the dining room which is lit by subtle suspended lighting. A bread basket containing a honeyed roll, pain de campagne and sundried tomato bread was presented with a slate of butter and sea salt flakes. e bread was still warm and it was crusty and fresh, just irresistible with the creamy butter. A carrot salad started off the meal with a flourish of crisp

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and clean flavours which cleansed the palate with a colourful medley anointed with a little goat’s curd. My starter of roast scallops with a pumpkin and cumin purée and cumin velouté was perfectly balanced with sweetness and good sized juicy scallops which were cooked to perfection and the textures danced together with the fleshy scallops working well against the lightness of the purée and velouté. I sipped a glass of Chardonnay as I watched the ever changing view which became more dramatic by the second due to the capricious weather outside. My main course of crisp herb panisse with caramelised aubergine, goats curd and salsa verde was a revelation with a wealth of flavours which worked in harmony. e presentation of this dish was so artful and symmetrical that it seemed a pity to ruin it, however I soon took my first bite to discover an intoxicating mixture of woody and earthy notes lifted by a wonderful sharpness from the goat’s curd which complemented and enhanced the panisse.

ABOdE ChEstEr e choice of desserts was impressive and I was especially tempted by fennel mousse until I saw the dark chocolate soufflé on the menu, which is a favourite of mine. is was baked to order and served with a milk chocolate anglaise and white chocolate ice cream. e soufflé was divine, springy goodness and the ice cream and anglaise added further decadence to this already indulgent dish. is was a lovely way to round off such a perfect meal and I enjoyed every bite of the chocolate delight. e cuisine at Michael Caines is sophisticated and each dish is plated in a fine dining style with well-matched ingredients. e service was excellent and the team had an encyclopaedic knowledge of the dishes on the menu and the wine list, which only added to the experience. is is the ideal place to dine when in Chester due to its central location and proximity to the shops and bars of the city centre. Although I dined alone I felt completely at ease and the ambience was pleasant and relaxing whilst the food was sensational. I had lunch with a view and an exquisite selection of dishes, which made my trip to Chester a day to remember.

Michael Caines Restaurant Abode Chester Grosvenor Road Chester CH1 2DJ 01244 347000 www.abodechester.co.uk/ michael-caines-dining

Spring 2016

GiN BArs

Of All the Gin Joints in All the towns...

A selection of Gin Bars in the North West

JeneveR, LiveRpooL Jenever is a beautiful contemporary gin bar and restaurant that is the wildly popular Side Door bistro's on-trend reincarnation. Located at 29a Hope Street, Liverpool this gin bar boasts more than 70 diﬀerent types of gin, speciality jenevers (gin's predecessor), umpteen cocktails, excellent beer and wine lists, and top quality tapas. Whether it be a pre-theatre bite or tipple, a lazy Afternoon G&T or one of their specially selected gin tastings, Jenever has plenty to oﬀer. You’ll notice some familiar names on the lengthy gin menu, including Beefeater and Bombay Sapphire. But if you fancy a walk on the wild side, there are plenty of more exotic sounding tipples to sample. How about some Black Death, Elephant Gin or the intriguing Dà mhìle seaweed organic Gin?! (www.jenever.co.uk)

ATLAS BAR, MAnCheSTeR Situated in the railway arches of Deansgate, Atlas Bar has been a Manchester icon for two decades, and has now matured into a elegant, quality bar specialising in gins from around the world. Following a full refurbishment, Atlas still has the quirky individualism that made it the go-to bar of Tony Wilson, but also adds a twist of homely service and a covered and heated terrace. Atlas Bar's ever-expanding gin selection currently stands at 210. eir latest additions are Tanqueray Bloomsbury, Gin SUL and Brooklyn. Little wonder is was winner of Best Spirits Bar North West 2014 and Winner of Best Bar Team North West 2015. (www.atlasbarmanchester.com)

Gin RiCkey'S, CheSTeR If you haven't yet heard of young gun chef, Luke omas, it's only a matter of time. However, it's Britain's youngest Head Chef's (omas opened his first restaurant, Luke's Dining Room, at the tender age of 18) brand new gin bar in Chester that we're interested in here. Located on the ground floor of Luke's Eating House (10 St John's Street) is Gin Rickey’s, a space where handcrafted cocktails are served alongside carefully selected beers, spirits, wines and an evergrowing gin collection. e interior shows elements of industrial chic with a combination of exposed white brick, iron caged light fixtures and handmade leather seating. An eclectic drinking and dining experience awaits you here. (www.lukeseatinghouse.com)

Spring 2016

fOOd ANd driNK fEstiVAl

Liverpool Food and Drink Festival e Liverpool Food and Drink Festival returns to Sefton Park for its Spring Festival on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April 2016. e festival celebrates the awakening of spring, with a number of themed activities, including a fresh flower fair, children’s enchanted garden, street food in the woods and 'grow-your-own' demonstrations.

ENJOyiNG thE riOt Of COlOur sPriNG BriNGs

Bars, restaurants and producers already confirmed to take part in the event include Baoxen Ltd, Little Furnace, Oh So British Street Food, Fudge Factory, French Corner and the Real ai Pie Co.

ere will also be several themed foodie zones dedicated to genres like fresh fish, chocolate and street food, while those in search of something a little boozier will love the dedicated ‘Gin Market.' Green fingers will be inspired by a number of live gardening demonstrations. While kids will love the Children’s Area, which will include a petting farm and live puppet theatre.

“e festival is such a popular event with the people of Liverpool, but a year is a long time to wait between events, so we decided to run a food festival in the April too,” said Denise Harris, Director of the Liverpool Food and Drink Festival. “is year though, the focus isn’t just on food, it’s about welcoming in a new season. So there will be a big focus on gardening, baby animals and enjoying the riot of colour spring brings to the beautiful Sefton Park,” she added. For more information, and to book your tickets, visit www.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk.

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EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL E x c lu s i v E M ag a z i n E T ravEl EdiTor Pau l K n o w l E s h i g h l i ghTs soME MorE E x o T i c lo c aT i o n s T o considEr for T h E lu x u r y h o l i day o f a lifETiME .

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Raffles Praslin S E yC h E LLES

any of us have dreamed of visiting the stunning archipelago of the Seychelles, set oďŹ&#x20AC; East Africa in the Indian Ocean. î &#x201C;e island paradise which spans across 115 islands, is a picture perfect setting of white sand beaches famed for its coral reefs where there is excellent diving to be enjoyed. Located on the tranquil island of Praslin, which boasts its

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own microclimate, the luxurious Raffles Estate Praslin is a hidden escape where you can truly relax and unwind whilst experiencing a retreat for the senses. Praslin is the second largest island in the Seychelles, full of bays with turquoise waters fringed with palm trees. e famous brand of Raffles hotels and resorts is world renowned and synonymous with an unsurpassable level of guest experience. e location for a truly once in a lifetime getaway, Raffles Praslin is a beachside resort which comprises 86 expansive private villas which come with their own plunge pool and outdoor terrace, affording you sweeping ocean views. Guests can expect glorious sunshine during their stay, indeed the average temperatures are always tropical on the island. ere are so many activities on offer at the resort, such as swimming and kayaking across the crystal clear waters. Dining options at Raffles Praslin resort are many and varied with a wide selection of options available overseen by Executive Chef Chris Meredith who developed his impressive culinary expertise working at a host of prestigious hotels and Michelin Starred restaurants.

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e elegant and contemporary Losean Restaurant serves a globally inspired breakfast menu and a dinner menu which draws on Seychellois dishes inspired by the local area as well as those with Creole influences. Choose from indoor and outdoor tables with sweeping sea views where you can enjoy an array of the excellent local seafood alongside a wine list which features a choice of classic wines and a dessert menu of patisserie and cakes. Curieuse Restaurant meanwhile serves a selection of sushi and sashimi as well as a pan-Asian inspired fusion menu. When it comes to relaxation the resort is unsurpassable, and e Raﬄes Spa is the largest in the Seychelles featuring 13 treatment pavilions, an ocean view tea room, steam whirlpools, experience showers and outdoor lounges with soaking pools as well as a choice of beauty treatments on oﬀer. Yoga and meditation can be enjoyed on the outdoor pavilions giving guests the chance to soak up the stunning views whilst exercising, followed by a relaxing massage.

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ExclusivE TravEl In terms of excursions there is plenty to do in the area and a trip to Mahé Island, home to the capital Victoria and a sightseeing trip to the mountain rainforests of Morne Seychellois National Park and the white sand beaches including Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka is a must. e Seychelles are home to rare wildlife such as giant Aldabra tortoises and sea turtles, so taking the time to organise an excursion to witness some of these amazing creatures is something not to be missed during the course of your stay. A visit to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is another trip which it is worthwhile to include on your holiday itinerary, where you can enjoy relaxing walks surrounded by Coco de Mer trees whilst spotting diverse wildlife and hearing about the area from the knowledgeable guides who are always on hand to tell you fascinating stories. For a truly rejuvenating holiday, Raﬄes Praslin is an out of this world experience, the island is an idyllic paradise and staying here gives guests the chance to switch oﬀ from the stress of everyday life and enjoy an unrivalled sense of escapism.

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߷ Ask the resort concierge about arranging a private chef for an unforgettable dining experience. ߷ Swim in the one of the two infinity pools at night to enjoy the starry skies above.

߷ Sip the Seychelles version of a Singapore Sling, the refreshing Praslin Sling, at the poolside bar ߷ Relax at Takamaka Terrace, the only shisha lounge in the Seychelles, to enjoy evening cocktails.

Raﬄes Praslin Seychelles Anse Takamaka, Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles www.raﬄes.com/praslin

Spring 2016

Avalon PA L m S P RIngS

he desert city of Palm Springs is not necessarily the first choice of many when considering a holiday in California, but the charming area boasts many examples of stunning architecture, which along with the hot springs and the sunny climate make this a destination which is definitely worth visiting.

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For old school glamour and echoes of the charm of a bygone era, the Avalon Palm Springs has plenty to oﬀer and it makes the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. e hotel is something of a hidden gem with plenty of character and a secluded feeling which makes it ideal for a romantic break. e four star boutique hotel has a stunning interior design aesthetic created by Kelly Wearstler, who designed a style and colour scheme which seeks to combine the best of classic and modern elements; think rooms with neutral tones paired with bright splashes of colour, comfortable armchairs and deluxe beds. e hotel lies nestled between the downtown Palm Springs area and the stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, which means there are some marvellous views to be enjoyed. e Avalon group discovered the property back in 2003 and the accommodation consists of 67 sumptuous rooms and 13 villas with one or two bedrooms, which are equipped with every convenience. It is easy to imagine stars of the silver screen both past and present checking in to this resort to

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enjoy seclusion and tranquillity, and indeed it is always a popular choice of hideaway for those looking for a sense of escapism. e hotel has three pools, a spa and restaurant as well as expansive grounds and it has long been regarded as a desirable place to stay, due to the winning combination of location and facilities. All of the accommodation is bright, spacious and airy with plenty of natural light flooding in. ere are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in the area, and e Chi Chi Restaurant within the hotel serves a menu which fuses Latin style cuisine with modern Californian influences, serving dishes prepared using the best of locally sourced fresh produce. Diners can expect hearty fare such as empanadas, tacos and burgers served alongside all day breakfasts, a varied cocktail menu and a selection of juices created to give you everything from glowing skin to mental clarity.

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Executive Chef Tara Lazar has developed a menu inspired by many of the dishes she encountered during her travels, which she has put her own spin on using the best ingredients to devise innovative dishes which give a nod to the South of the Border. e rooms and suites at e Avalon all come equipped with every amenity you could desire during your stay and the welcoming feeling makes you feel as though the hotel is a home away from home. Relaxing by the pool is the ideal way to unwind during your stay, with comfortable loungers to recline on beneath the shade of parasols. ere are beautiful views to behold everywhere, with lush palm trees and colourful flowers creating a pretty ambience. Poolside dining is available from Chi Chi too, with the emphasis on a relaxed, grazing style of dining of light dishes which can be enjoyed throughout the day. e sprawling manicured gardens are full of picturesque fragrant flowers which create that classic Palm Springs

ExclusivE TravEl ambience which the area is so renowned for. is is the place to switch oﬀ your phone, soak up the sun and forget about your everyday cares. e peacefulness of the environment is complemented by the hotel’s Estrella Spa which oﬀers a choice of treatments and therapies which are designed to relax mind, body and soul. e focus here is on treatments which concentrate on wellness rather than solely beauty, and the spa is a retreat which centres on relaxation, balance and harmony. For more active pastimes, the surrounding Coachella Valley is renowned for outdoor pursuits and stunning scenery, and there is plenty to choose from when it comes to activities such as hiking on some of the winding trails, horse-riding and cycling which are all available locally. Ex c lu s i v E r E c o M M E n daT i o n s

߷ Ask the hotel concierge about booking a hot air balloon ride (available locally) which is a unique way to get a superb aerial view of the area.

߷ Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to soak up a little culture during your stay and enjoy collections of work by a mixture of western and contemporary artists. ߷ Book a walking tour with the Palm Springs Historical Society to take in the celebrity homes and mid-century architecture the area is famous for.

߷ For shopping enthusiasts, the Downtown and the Uptown Design District has a vast selection of stores selling artisan goods, fashion and antiques.

Avalon Palm Springs 415 S Belardo Rd Palm Springs CA 92262 United States www.avalonpalmsprings.com

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Taj Exotica m A L d I V ES

he 5 star Taj Maldives Exotica Resort and Spa is a dream destination, set in lush landscaped grounds on the private island of Emboodhu Finolhu, which is located just a 15 minute boat ride away from the capital MalĂŠ. î &#x201C;e Maldives is renowned for its tranquillity and a sense of wilderness abounds as soon as you arrive at the picturesque resort.

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ExclusivE TravEl e luxurious location makes an ideal place for a romantic getaway, a honeymoon or simply for the holiday of a lifetime. is is a truly stunning escape, surrounded by the crystal clear waters of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. e horseshoe shaped resort comprises 64 private villas which overlook the azure waters, each of which come with their own plunge pool and a relaxing and contemporary neutral colour scheme. e white sand beaches are the perfect place to relax with a good book and soak up the sun, before enjoying a bite to eat in one of the many dining options available. e 24 Degrees serves food all day with menus which draw their influences from a Pan Asian and European style of dining. Teppanyaki is available with a selection of seafood, meats and vegetable dishes which cater to all tastes. e Deep End is the more upscale and fine dining choice at the resort, where the team of talented chefs create beautifully plated modern European food which fuses the best of Mediterranean flavours. Ingredients are carefully sourced with a preference for local provenance and sustainable produce. e resort’s Jiva Grande Spa is an authentic Indian style spa which oﬀers an expansive range of beauty and wellness treatments designed to rebalance mind, body and soul.

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Aromatherapy massages, yoga, meditation and traditional bathing rituals are sure to leave you feeling completely rejuvenated. For those who prefer slightly more active pursuits, the resort has an extensive range of water sports on oďŹ&#x20AC;er such as water skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving. It is even possible to get up close and personal with some of the sea life during the course of your stay, with shark and stingray feeding available as an excursion. Another must during your stay is to visit the National Museum located in Sultan Park MalĂŠ which showcases the fascinating history, culture and society of the island with displays of historical artefacts. Check the opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment however, as they vary dependent upon the season! If you are looking for the type of holiday where you can retreat completely from the world, Taj Exotica is just the place and there is even personal butler service on oďŹ&#x20AC;er to

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ExclusivE TravEl make every part of your stay stress free. Your butler can arrange everything from breakfast on your villa terrace to tailor made excursions and romantic private dinners. Every element of your stay can be created to your preference and it is easy to see why this magical paradise is an award winning resort. For an unforgettable holiday experience this is an ideal choice, a true haven in every sense of the word. e privacy and seclusion is second to none and the facilities are such that everything you need is available within the resort. Taj Exotica is often ranked as one of the best resorts in the world, and you simply will not want to leave this oasis of calm.

ExclusivE rEcoMMEndaTions

߷ Ask the concierge about arranging a private dining champagne breakfast for a truly memorable experience.

߷ A private sunset cruise is a must for an unforgettable romantic experience.

߷ Try the local Maldivian cuisine during your stay which centres on excellent seafood, curries and delicious fresh coconut. ߷ Visit e Equator Bar at the resort for music and a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy a superb wine list, cocktails, cigars and shishas. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives P.O. Box 2117 South Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives www.tajhotels.com

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Fairmont miramar S A n TA monICA

Situated just 8 miles from LAX, Santa Monica is the beachfront destination where you can truly wash away your cares and relax. î &#x201C;e area is famous for its easy going vibes and life centres on the beach where even a simple walk is a pleasure. With sweeping views of the glittering Pacific Ocean, palm trees and blue skies there is no better place to spend a relaxing stay in Santa Monica than the luxurious

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Fairmont Miramar. e ten storey tower hotel was established in 1921 and it boasts a selection of rooms and suites equipped with every amenity you could possibly need including Wi-Fi, flat screens, and coffee makers. Upgraded rooms also feature balconies or patios, affording guests beautiful panoramas. e restaurant and heated outdoor pool make the Fairmont Miramar the perfect holiday destination where everything you need is on hand and the sun shines throughout most of the year if you want to top up your tan whilst relaxing poolside. e Exhale Mind Body Spa offers a range of relaxing therapies such as massages, whirlpool baths, and restorative treatments. e spa menu is designed around the principles of ancient and contemporary therapies combined and the glow body scrub and Hammam detox therapy are the perfect treatments to get your body beach ready during your stay! e most intriguing aspect of this resort is the option of bungalow accommodation, giving you the chance to enjoy your stay in total seclusion and privacy whilst still taking

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advantage of the hotel facilities and central location. e 32 garden bungalows are designed to feel like a home away from home, with a sense of comfort and classic style as well as a private patio. e jewel in the crown of these opulent bungalows is Bungalow One, which was recently renovated by Robb Report Home & Style. e elegant 2500 sq.ft bungalow has a mid-century yet modern aesthetic, with three bedrooms and the feeling of a relaxing retreat where you can truly unwind. e space is light and airy and the colour scheme is neutral with local vintage artwork adorning the walls, soft lighting and a selection of organic textures which convey the ‘surf modern’ ambience created by Los Angeles based Interior Designer Michael Berman who drew inspiration from the beach and the relaxed local vibe to create an easy breezy seaside feel. Bungalow One manages to be plush yet laid back, stylish yet understated, in short everything you would want from holiday accommodation just a short walk from the beach. No element of comfort is overlooked in Bungalow One, with Scandia Linen and 100% Egyptian cotton bedding as well as Michael Berman

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ExclusivE TravEl custom designed furniture throughout, a La Cava Tub in the wet room and Molton Brown products in the bathrooms. Samsung Smart TV’s are fitted throughout the bungalow and there is a Keurig Coﬀee Maker and True Beverage Center to provide refreshments. Venturing out in the local area, the beach is of course the first destination to head for during your holiday, with stunning views, a selection of water sports available and plenty of beachside restaurants for a spot of lunch overlooking the sea. e shopping in the area is renowned for an eclectic mix of art shops, homeware stores, small fashion boutiques and famous brands within the locale. Santa Monica Place is the area to visit for designer labels, with renowned fashion houses situated in the downtown area and of course no trip to Santa Monica is complete without paying a visit to Fred Segal which plays host to a range of emerging labels and designers.

After a long day of shopping, you can retire back to the secluded patio of Bungalow One which overlooks Miramar Gardens and this is the ideal place for a pre-dinner cocktail before heading to the hotel’s FIG Restaurant which has a casual dining style and serves a menu developed around the use of locally sourced organic produce selected from the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market. FIG serves everything from breakfast to dinner and having brunch there is a fun way to start a relaxed day, with a menu including eggs benedict, waﬄes, sandwiches, salads and burritos. In the evening, the menu centres on sophisticated and contemporary dishes including steamed Manilla clams, Baja seabass and prime rib eye steak with butternut squash and salsa verde. e Fairmont Miramar Bungalows is an impressive resort which has so much to oﬀer and staying in one of the private bungalows is an unforgettable experience. Bungalow One is the ideal choice for a holiday of total relaxation and indulgence, with no attention to detail spared and an attractive beachside design style which makes you feel as though you do not want to leave.

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߷ e traditional Lloyd’s Barbershop within the resort oﬀers male grooming with a complimentary drink of Bourbon, Cognac, or Scotch.

߷ e Vilebrequin store at the Fairmont Miramar sells a selection of swimwear and resort wear, should you have forgotten to pack anything! ߷ Dine at Valentino Santa Monica on Pico Boulevard for delicious Italian food in a stylish setting.

߷ Visit the Santa Monica pier for a traditional seaside experience, including restaurants, shops and amusement park.

Fairmont Miramar 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States www.fairmont.com/santa-monica

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SeaScope MaritiMe

Making A Splash

S e a s c o p e M a r i t i m e Tr a i n i ng

eascope Maritime Training, the foremost maritime training academy in the North West of England, has recently celebrated a milestone ten year anniversary. e renowned facility oﬀers a variety of intensive maritime training courses accredited by the Maritime Coastguard Agency, the leading authority in the world of maritime safety. Seascope Maritime is located at Queen’s Dock in the heart of Liverpool, close to the vibrant city centre. e courses on oﬀer range from the STCW basic training course, to a selection of further in depth training programmes necessary for life at sea. e varied choice of courses on the syllabus at Seascope Maritime focus on subjects such as first aid, survival techniques, crowd management and fire prevention. After training at Seascope Maritime, a huge catchment area of maritime careers is open to the newly qualified students who go on to gain employment with some of the most recognisable names in the maritime industry. Many of the tutors at Seascope Maritime have served in the Navy, and they bring to bear decades of extensive experience within their particular fields, sharing skills and knowledge which enable them to ready their students for the realities 108

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and safety requirements of a life at sea. Seascope Maritime is one of the foremost maritime training academies in Europe, the first port of call for maritime training needs. e courses oﬀer students the vital knowledge they need to enter in to a career at sea, whilst enjoying life in one of the most exciting cities in Europe. e training delivered at the state of the art Seascope Maritime centre caters to a large variety of career sectors, including those wishing to work aboard cruise ships, luxury yachts, passenger ferries and cargo ships. Accommodation is available to students for the duration of their course, through a variety of Seascope Maritime brand partners. Seascope Maritime began life primarily as a recruitment company, and after a clear need was identified for an accredited maritime training provider, they set up an academy to deliver an unsurpassable level of training. “I am looking forward to driving Seascope Maritime in to this exciting period of expansion including the introduction

SeaScope MaritiMe of new courses and the future opening of new training academies. We equip our students with the skills needed for a life at sea, delivered via focused and structured educational training which successfully combines practical and academic elements. We are proud to be at the pinnacle of the maritime training industry” said Principle of Seascope Maritime Training Alfie Hincks, who spent 30 years in the Merchant Navy and is qualified in Marine Operations Management.

Each course delivered at the facility is taught in close knit study groups no larger than 12 students at a time, delivering an optimal and focused student experience. e students also have access to an ‘oﬃcer’s mess room’ where snacks, light refreshments and tea and coﬀee are served.

Seascope Maritime Training gives students access to unparalleled cutting-edge facilities such as a full fire ground, where fire training is delivered and pool facilities where water based training is carried out.

Seascope Maritime Training Shipwright House Queens Dock Business Centre Liverpool L1 0BG Tel: 0151 236 3666 info@seascopemaritimetraining.co.uk

As well as in depth practical training delivered at Seascope Maritime, each course also has a strong academic element with focused study groups delivered in a relaxing environment where students can concentrate fully.

e training courses at Seascope Maritime also have a strong social side, and students may arrive as strangers but they quickly bond and often form lifelong friendships during the training courses. Seascope Maritime is the first choice of a huge amount of students wishing to qualify for a career at sea, due to excellent facilities, tutors and a central Liverpool location.

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titaNic Boat HoteL

Albert Dock Boat Hotel wins National Award

amous Yellow Sub Company Liverpool are celebrating a huge success, after having won a prestigious award for Unique Luxury Accommodation of the Year, recognising their contribution to the luxury travel sector. e achievement of the award marks the culmination of a hugely successful period for the company, who are famous worldwide for their unusual and luxurious floating accommodation. Famous Yellow Sub Company Director Alfie Bubbles commented: “We could not be more proud to have won this award, which is a testament to the luxury of e Titanic Boat, the flagship of our fleet. To win the award ‘Unique Luxury Accommodation of the Year’ is a huge accolade which reflects the luxury on board e Titanic Boat. We love welcoming guests to stay on board our themed boats and experience our incredible city.” e fleet of floating boats has become a tourist attraction with regular visitors posing for photographs. A huge picture of the floating boats greets guests as they arrive in passport control at Liverpool Airport and TV shows across the world have filmed the boats which stand proud at the Albert Dock.

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e Luxury Travel Guide Awards are some of the most renowned and sought after awards in the hospitality and travel industry, recognising several diﬀerent fields within the luxury travel sector. e award is a milestone for Famous Yellow Sub Company, which is proud to oﬀer unique and bespoke accommodation in the heart of Liverpool at the historic Albert Dock. Famous Yellow Sub Company beat tough competition in their category to triumph with the esteemed award.

titaNic Boat HoteL Nominees of the revered awards are subjected to a lengthy and rigorous assessment criteria to ensure that the winners are the very best in their fields. Award winners walk away with the prestigious accolade alongside a crystal trophy to commemorate achieving such industry recognition. e recent award recognises the popularity of Famous Yellow Sub Company accommodation which oﬀers a high standard of luxury for groups of guests who enjoy well-equipped apartment style accommodation. e luxury Titanic Boat accommodation concept moored at e Albert Dock in Liverpool, aﬀords guests an ideal central location to enjoy their stay in the city. e Titanic Boat is a luxurious apartment boat, accommodating up to nine guests across three cabin style bedrooms. No attention to detail is overlooked aboard the luxurious award winning boat, which is styled with a glamourous interior design aesthetic. Feature crystal chandeliers, porthole windows, wraparound leather sofas, a mini pool table and a casino area are just some of the features on board. Guests can relax in total comfort and privacy on board e Titanic Boat and each bedroom is equipped with en-suite

bathroom and television. ere is a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, but if guests choose to eat out they receive discounts at many of the restaurants at e Albert Dock. e award for Unique Luxury Accommodation of the Year is an exciting moment for Famous Yellow Sub Company who are delighted to oﬀer such unique and stylish accommodation to guests visiting Liverpool.

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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.

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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

As the winter comes to an end and the new golf season begins, we are all looking forward to this year’s golf, unless you are one of the lucky ones who was able to fly to sunnier climes for some winter sunshine. At this point I would like a special mention to our sponsors Woodward Solicitors, especially Tim Wood, Managing Director, who is a keen golfer himself. To Cobra/Puma for their input into the magazine and their on-going support and sponsorship of Linda Maguire our rookie golfer whose progress in learning the game is continuing under the watchful eye of PGA Professional, Andrew Greenbank, who is a staﬀ player for Cobra/Puma based at the golf academy at Preston Golf Club. eir support over the last 12 months has been invaluable and we know both are keen on continuing the association with Exclusive Magazine going forward. We are equally grateful for the support from all of the golf clubs featured in the magazine and whilst we are talking to a number of other clubs who also wish to be featured, we are delighted that clubs who have been with us from the start are also keen to continue their relationship with us. From May onwards we have a number of golf days available at all our supporting clubs. If your company is looking for a corporate golf day or if you are a golf society looking for a day out, why not let us organise it for you. All our staﬀ are keen golfers and have years of experience organising corporate events, golf days and tournaments. We will attend to your guests on arrival, assist in arranging meals or snacks, check in your score cards and assist arranging any presentations. roughout the remainder of the year we will also be holding our own Exclusive Magazine golf days at our featured clubs, numbers will be restricted to 32 players so early entry is advised.

For your corporate golfing events, society days out and further information please contact : Kevin Swindells, Director of Golf, Email: k.swindells@golfandtravelbreaks.com. Or visit our golf website, www.golfandtravelbreaks.com, a division of Exclusive Magazine, www.exclusive-magazine.co.uk

www.golfandtravelbreaks.com

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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. Spring 2016

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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

Beautiful blinds with automated technology Established Lancashire retailer Bernard Dickinson is taking the Smart Home concept to a new level, giving home owners full control over the light - both natural and electric, providing the ultimate in luxury and environmental eﬃciency. “We have been working with home owners as well as interior designers, architects and builders to specify complete homes ” 122

ernard Dickinson is the name behind Bang and Olufsen for Lancashire and Merseyside and is synonymous with all things audio visual, but their most recent innovation sees them enter the home furnishings arena with beautiful blinds, shades and lighting all with exceptional technology automating them. Lee Ashcroft, designer and programmer, demystified the technology for me focusing on the end result which means that home owners can utilise natural light in their homes beautifully – all be it with an unnatural force! e brains behind this impressive operation is world leading automation technology from Lutron, the driving force controlling the lights in Centre Court at Wimbledon, as well as some of the most exclusive homes worldwide.

Spring 2016

Lee said: “e cabling system for the blinds is built into the initial wire management of your home at the time of building. If, however, you are refurbishing an existing property we can supply a wireless remote control solution. Control is through a designated keypad or by using the Lutron app on your iDevice”. is cutting edge technology speaks for itself but what is really impressive is the exclusive range of designs and styles of blinds and shades available. e choice is extensive and they are beautifully made to the highest quality from traditional venetians with intelligent tilt alignment, attractive Roman shades and venetians through to full drapery styles, and you can achieve full black out as well as transparent eﬀects.Lee added: “ere really is something to suit all tastes and styles of homes, from classic to contemporary.

INTELLIGENT LIVING “We have been working with home owners as well as interior designers, architects and builders to specify complete homes and it is interesting that whereas typically it used to be the men who got excited about the technology, it is now the ladies who are impressed by what it can do to enhance the feel of their homes.” e Lutron technology can be told exactly where you are situated in the world and based on this adjusts your shading and lighting to coincide with sunrise and sunset. What makes this automated solution even more impressive is that it is so environmentally efficient due to its ability to balance natural and electric light. “With ‘green energy’ at the forefront of conversation, we are driving lamps at lower power levels throughout the home, usually some 30 per cent lower than normal. Lamps are also lasting three to four times longer due to the soft start process at switch on.” Lee added: “It is much more than just a traditional dimmer effect, the beautiful lighting combined with the shading solutions controlling the natural light, can create a variety of different ambiences in your home. “Having the control also provides wonderful peace of mind, knowing at any time from anywhere in your home you can flood areas with light or turn everything off before you go to bed and even keep lights operating whilst you are on holiday. “We are also pleased to be working alongside James Kok, a highly imaginative young lighting consultant, who assists our control with fabulous designs. James has worked with us now for some time and has truly brought another dimension to the atmosphere we can create with lamps and lighting.” e Bernard Dickinson showrooms in Tarleton & Preston have examples of styles and designs available to see as well as the Lutron technology installed to demonstrate its functionality. It is preferable to ring John or Lee to make an appointment and ensure the right person is on hand to discuss your requirements. Bernard Dickinson 226 Hesketh Lane Tarleton Preston PR4 6AT 01772 812852

Bernard Dickinson 13 Beech Drive Fulwood Preston PR2 3NB 01772 862266

“The beautiful lighting combined with the shading solutions controlling the natural light, can create diﬀerent ambiences” Spring 2016

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BMW i8

The BMW i8 fs

Will Boost Your E-Go

We all know BMW’s can boost your ego; motoring writer Stephen Rome’s been driving one that boosted his ‘e-go’, too. Confused? Don’t be, as he reflects on a memorable drive in BMW’s i8. 124

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BMW i8

he story's told of a French visitor who ventured into the UK in his new Jaguar XJ220. Even in the heady world of supercars, the epochal 220 made a bold statement, akin to the new F-Pace also featured in this edition. All was well until he hit the M6 near Preston; cue mounting attention from scores of drivers who insisted on getting up close and personal with the 200 mph beast; this was back in 1992 when they were a real rarity. And as he danced from lane to lane trying to escape their unwanted attentions, mounting frustration for monsieur saw him put his foot down to hit 100 plus, much to the chagrin of a motorway cop who pulled him over and proceeded to impound the car... î &#x201C;ere was a diplomatic incident of sorts (plus ca change, plus ca meme chose) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the matter was raised in Parliament by one local MP and a Lancashire PC could boast he drove a Jaguar XJ220 even if it was only back to Preston police station; if memory serves the culprit was let oďŹ&#x20AC; with a slap on the wrist.

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BMW i8

And the moral of the story? Supercars can bring out the worst in people, be it envy, jealousy or naked aggression. Paradoxically, I’ve been driving a supercar that does exactly the opposite (well, apart from the envy). e BMW i8 is a real game changer, and judging by the curled lips of folk from Audi, Porsche and Mercedes, has really set the cat among the pigeons. It’s been universally acknowledged as revolutionary – and no wonder; which other rival can hit 60 in 4.4 seconds yet boast the frugality of a family hatchback? To find out more, I met Ben Cornwell at Bowker, Preston where he rejoices in the moniker of ‘i genius’. Only certain BMW retail centres sell the i8 and its smaller cousin the i3; And what Ben doesn’t know about both cars, you can write down on the back of a very small envelope….. at training has seen him visit the bespoke factory in Leipzig where handcrafted i machines emerge for markets all over the world; in a dismal Preston he proved the perfect host for my afternoon’s driving. 126

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Even standing still the i8 - with its eye catching ‘stream flow’ design - dazzles. Open the large dihedral doors which swing up to around 90 degrees, ease yourself into the tub - anyone who’s manhandled their way into a Lotus will know the procedure - and then allow the door to lock and you’re in a diﬀerent world. e i8 ‘knows’ its driver and with my foot on the brake, a precise click of the transmission saw me proceed ever so quietly oﬀ the forecourt. It progresses (as my police driving instructor once eloquently said) with all the smoothness of a silkworm breaking wind. It’s little wonder the newcomer - launched around 18 months ago - has ushered in a new genre of sports car that’s dumbfounded rivals and impressed hard bitten motoring writers in equal measure. ose Dan Dare looks make rivals seem so last century; a friend with an Audi R8 says the looks may grow on him but I think he’s simply jealous...

BMW i8 Whichever angle you look at the i8, it’s an intriguing car. e 21st century styling clothes a clever hybrid power train that oﬀers all-wheel drive in extremis yet can waft you along on electric power for 20 miles or so.

fantastic grip allied to a composed ride as the car slung itself towards the horizon, a marvellous turbo whistle an intoxicating soundtrack and the standard head up display relaying the speed.

I began to empathise with the aforementioned Jaguar driver as I tootled round the environs of Preston to get a feel for the car. e word Grand Tourer lost a lot of its currency a long time ago but this is one of the few cars you feel could be driven to France, Italy, Germany or further afield and never bore you.

Back in the real world, Eco Pro ensures everything works as eﬃciently as possible while Comfort melds petrol and electric power imperceptibly to the best eﬀect; Ben is keen to stress that the measure of this car isn’t its mpg but range you can drive over 350 miles in the various modes without stopping for fuel – try that in your average Ferrari, Lambo or Maserati...

Away from the confines of pesky 20 and 30 limits, it showed its real mettle. ere are three driving modes tailored to bring out the best in the car; engage Sport and it really is a case of 'charge' as the electric motor kicks in alongside the 1.5 three cylinder petrol turbo engine; now the i8’s driving through all four wheels and the eﬀect is amazing with

Today’s supercars have survived and adapted in a politically charged atmosphere over the past few years; BMW always had a reputation of evolution rather than revolution - until now. It’s changed in one fell swoop; all hail the BMW i8!

*If you’ve set your heart on an i8, a new limited edition model might just seal the deal. BMW says its new Protonic Red Edition puts a new angle on the supercar; its paintwork, created exclusively for this model is Protonic Red with Frozen Grey metallic accents. The colour scheme is complemented by BMW W-spoke 470 light-alloy wheels painted in Orbit Grey Spring 2016

metallic with hubs painted in Aluminium matt and mixed-size tyres (front: 215 R20, rear: 245/40). Inside, the special edition i8 comes with high-class red double-stitching and exclusive carbon ﬁbre and ceramic trims. It’s being produced at BMW Plant Leipzig from July onwards and oﬃcially on sale from September, priced at £112,535 OTR.

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JAGUAR F-PACE

Setting The Pace Jaguarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new F-Pace

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JAGUAR F-PACE

Jaguar’s unrelenting progress continues apace with the company - in Indian hands since Spring 2008 – posting record UK sales in 2015. And its pace quickened literally as the stunning new Jaguar F-Pace sports utility took March’s Geneva Motor Show by storm. Motoring writer Stephen Rome examines the newcomer that’s entering a very talented marketplace with very high hopes. e heat is definitely on for its rivals ... and will it be cool for cats?

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JAGUAR F-PACE

hink ‘sports utility vehicle’ and a number of names come to mind. ey’re mostly European and all premium brands - and now Jaguar’s finally made its bold move into Europe’s most lucrative market place, entering the SUV fray with its own ‘take’ on the sports utility. Designed from the ground up as a Jaguar, it’s definitely not a badge engineered Range Rover or Discovery Sport with that famous Jaguar badge plonked unceremoniously on its nose... e launch of Jaguar’s first SUV will see the company hoping to claw its way into a very profitable niche which until now has been dominated by models from Audi, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Lexus and latterly Porsche. It knows the stakes are high but is still determined to show its rivals a clean pair of wheels with its newcomer boasting impeccable and unmistakeable British styling heritage allied to the sporting intent that’s made cars like the XF and new XE so successful. Jaguar’s come a long way since Ford took the reins fifteen years or so ago. Many would say it lost its direction with both the S type and X type not really making the impact its American owners hoped for; news that Tata had bought the company was greeted cautiously in March 2008 but eight years on and it’s proved a masterstroke; the Indian giant has had the resources and foresight to back Jaguar to the hilt.

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JAGUAR F-PACE

So, W h aT oF ThE nEW F-PacE? Well, first things first - and best news of all for Jaguar fans it looks like a Jaguar. e 106 page glossy brochure is forthright in its introduction to the range which, it says, ‘takes the pure Jaguar DNA of legendary performance, handling and luxury adding space and practicality’. DA R I n G

And while it’ll come as a real shock to those traditional Jaguar customers who had palpitations at the thought of a baby Jag (the X type) - never mind cars with a diesel engine under the bonnet - this is a real Jaguar, and shows just how the company’s been reinvigorated and revitalised with 'daring' back in that aforementioned DNA. Designer Ian Callum’s penned a car with traits from the F Type sports car, agile looks are mated with a choice of powerful petrol and diesel engines along with a typically

‘Jaguar-esque’ cabin complete with sports command driving position and design motifs all shouting ‘class’, ‘cool’ and ‘cultured’. With its aluminium bodywork and range of state of the art power plants, the F-Pace is roomier, more economical, better equipped and better value than many rivals. And factor in the dizzying amount of optional extras and array of accessories (the F-Pace can be personalised to the n’th degree for the most fastidious customer) and it looks like another winner from Coventry. UnIqUE FEATURES

For those with deep pockets there is one obvious choice. e exclusive £65,275 F-Pace ‘first edition’ which with its unique specification is available in just one colour - Caesium Blue is the purest evocation of the C-X17 concept vehicle which inspired the F-Pace and includes many unique features in its one oﬀ specification and will be limited to some 300 launch models.

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TOURInG

Motorhome Touring

new locations and if you feel you might have a suitable site please do not hesitate in making contact directly with the club. Purchasing, owning and running a Motor Home can represent a substantial financial investment and can be a life changing decision. I hope that over the last 2 years our features have been both informative and helpful and there is no doubt that our association with e Motor Caravanners club can only further enhance our feature and bring yet more useful ideas and information to our readers. For further information.

t’s about that time again when we should be enjoying the freedom that owning a Motor Home brings. Having spent the last 2 years travelling around independently it is with great pleasure I can announce that we have teamed up with e Motor Caravanners Club, for this coming year.

www. themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk looking forward to providing some of our own points of interest for publication in their future editions. Over the next 6 months we intend to visit some of the 70 plus Certified Sites currently associated with the club as well as the many one night stop over locations also aﬃliated with the MCC. e club is always on the look-out for

On my own travels I have always chosen to rough camp but I do understand the benefits and advantages of staying on a site with amenities and this year I look forward to enjoying both options. e Club was formed in 1960 and is still run on a voluntary basis by motor home owners and enthusiasts. Owners of over 6200 Motor Homes form the basis of the club and numbers are growing weekly as is the clubs profile. MCC hold more than 500 social events annually in the UK and abroad and this year members will be holidaying at organised events in Austria, Spain, Portugal and the UK. Not forgetting the many weekend meets and rallies arranged throughout the country. e club has its own monthly magazine for members and we are

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We are currently testing some new ideas and equipment for a number of companies and I am particularly excited about a new alarm and tracking system for motor homes. All will be revealed in the next edition of Exclusive Magazine. Safe Travels

CInEMA

Upcoming Film Releases Craving a romantic comedy? A non-stop explosion of action? Or a film to watch with all the family? ere's a film for everyone this season!

T h E J U n G lE Book 15 T h A P R I L

e Jungle Book is the latest in the series of Disney classics to be made into a live-action film. It is set to star Neel Sethi as Mowgli, a young boy who is raised by wolves before being hunted down by the fearsome tiger Shere Khan (Idris Elba). e star-studded cast is also set to include Ben Kingsley voicing Bagheera the panther, Bill Murray as Baloo the bear, Christopher Walken as King Louie the orangutan and Scarlett Johansson as Kaa the python. So far every live-action remake has been a huge success for Disney and e Jungle Book is certainly set to follow in its predecessors footsteps.

caPTain aMERica: civil WaR 29Th APRIL

Set one year after the events of Avengers: Age of Ultron, Civil War centres around Captain America and Iron Man operating on opposing sides. After it is decided by government that the Avengers should be made more accountable for their actions and be monitored more closely, opinions are divided within the team. is results in the splintering of the Avengers into two groups, those who agree the notion are led by Tony Stark and those who disagree are led by Steve Rogers. In true Marvel fashion the film is set to be full of non-stop action, drama and explosions. ose familiar with the Marvel comics may also agree that this movie hints at a huge possible development in the franchise, but for that we will have to wait and see.

noW YoU SEE ME 2 10Th JUnE

Set a year after the events of the first film, the magicians known as e Four Horsemen are back causing magical mayhem. Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco and Mark Ruffalo are all set to return to their roles, however Isla Fisher's character had to be replaced due to her pregnancy at the time. A new character called Lula (Lizzy Caplan) will therefore be joining the cast. Following on from the last film the team now face Walter Tressler (Daniel Radcliffe), the son of Arthur Tressler (Michael Caine), who has made it his mission to catch e Four Horseman as revenge for their part in having his father arrested. If the sequel is anything like the first film audiences will be treated to amazing stunts, beautiful visual effects and as with any magic trick will be left wondering 'How did they do that?'

Spring 2016

by Becky hayes

X-MEn: aPocalYPSE 19Th MAy

e X-Men are back and James McAvoy (who plays Charles Xavier) has finally gone for that iconic shaved head look we've all been waiting for! All jokes aside the movie has a much more darker feel to it than the previous films, with the main antagonist declaring war on the whole of humanity. e villain of the film is Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac), an ancient and powerful mutant who is seemingly immortal. Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender, Nicholas Hoult and Evan Peters are all set to reprise their previous roles in the franchise. With newcomers such as Sophie Turner playing a young Jean Grey, Tye Sheridan as a young Cyclops and Alexandra Shipp as a young Storm. Although inexperienced in using their powers the younger mutants are left with no choice but to help save the world from Apocalypse and his deadly horsemen.

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sUMMer PreVIeW

The Stage is Set for Summer

an exclusive preview to this summer's biggest events across the North West

Now that spring is well and truly upon us, that can only mean one thing: summer is just around the corner! So we thought, with all the amazing events to look forward to across the region, we'd

give you a sneak preview to bring some of sunshine into your lives. Here's an Exclusive peak at some of the must-attend events to put in your diary. Words by Simon Grant

here in the North West we're amply blessed with more than our fair share of vibrant and exciting events to look forward to over the summer months. We've compiled some of our favourites, to get you excited for what's to come from May through to august.

M ay C h e s t e r r aC e s

It wouldn't be a true North West Summer without a trip to Chester Races. î &#x201C;e Region's most historic, and some might say glamorous, racing venue has long-since become a firm favourite on the social and sporting calendars alike. Excited punters can choose

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to swagger and sashay in the stands, dressed in all their fineries, or mix it up on the relaxed open course with a picnic. î &#x201C;e 15-day schedule of scintillating Summer racing takes place between May and September. Seasonal highlights include the prestigious three-day May Festival, City Day in July and the Season Finale in September. (www.chesterraces.co.uk)

sUMMer PreVIeW M o r r I s o N s G r e at M a N C h e s t e r r U N 2016

Europe's leading 10k running event returns to the heart of the city on Sunday 22 May. Since 2003, more than a quarter of a million people have donned their running trainers for this event and this year will see the 300,000th runner cross the finish line. Runners pass some of Manchester's most iconic sights, including Old Traﬀord, the home of Manchester United. is North West 10K run has grown into a fantastic weekend for the whole family, including the Junior and Mini Great Manchester Run and the Great CityGames Manchester - a unique elite event that attracts some of the world's top athletes on a purpose-built track in the heart of the city centre. (www.greatrun.org/great-manchester-run)

June

afrICa oyé

Africa Oyé, the UK's largest free celebration of African music and culture, takes place from18-19 June in Liverpool's Sefton Park. What began as a cluster of small gigs back in 1992 now attracts crowds of 80,000 revellers. Last year saw the likes of UK artist Omar take to the stage along with Congolese pop star, Gordon Masiala. Artistic Director, Paul Duhaney is now putting the final touches together for this year's event. "We've already got some

exciting acts in the pipeline that we'll be able to announce very soon", Paul said. "Every year we try and build on our success and raise the standard that little bit more and I'm confident that 2016 will be no diﬀerent." (www.africaoye.com)

Pa r k l I f e

July

e Warehouse Project presents a frankly interstellar lineup as the great and the good of music lockdown Manchester's Heaton Park for two days of audio revelry from 11-12 June. Last year saw epic performances from the likes of Disclosure, Wu Tang Clan, Brit award-winner James Bay, Rudimental,

Beat-herder

George Ezra, Jessie Ware, Jungle and Jess Glynne. e cream of the dance world also came out in force, with megastars like Fat Boy Slim and Mark Ronson spinning the tunes. Expect some equally huge mega-stars to hit the stage this year. (www.parklife.uk.com)

Beat-Herder bursts out of the sheep pen once more from 1517 July, bringing with it an eclectic lineup and truly inspired staging to the lush Ribble Valley. e Toil Trees stage oﬀers hands-in-theair woodland worship. Or perhaps the fire-breathing ramparts of the Fortress are more your thing. en there's e Ring, which pays homage to the local legend of John Pratt, an 8ft giant with the strength of ten men. Yes, it's quirky and it's those thoughtful little touches that saw the event pick up 'e Extra-Festival Activity Award' at the 2014 Festival Awards. (www.beatherder.co.uk)

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sUMMer PreVIeW keNdal CallING

From 28-31 July the picturesque surroundings of Lowther Deer Park, in the Lake District, transforms into the carnivalesque Kendal Calling. Expect another stellar line-up, as some of the world's biggest acts rock out on the main

BrazIlICa

Brazilica, the UK’s only Brazilian Festival and Samba Carnival, shimmies into Liverpool city centre from 15-17 July. Having formed in 1995, Liverpool Samba School members strutted their stuﬀ at the Parade of Champions at the Sambadrome showpiece of Rio’s millennium Carnival. From that moment forth, they determined to replicate the rhythm, colour and energy of Brazil right here in the UK. Where better than the musical hotbed of Liverpool? From the inaugural samba carnival parade, as part of the city’s 2008 Capital of Culture celebrations, the event has grown into a vibrant three-day festival featuring global bands and DJs. (www.brazilicafestival.co.uk)

stage, the freshest new acts burst forth onto the Calling Out stage and legendary DJs spin their vinyl in the Glow Tent. In previous years, the festival has attracted the likes of Blondie, Dizzee Rascal, Public Enemy, Primal Scream and Calvin Harris. ere's far more besides the music too. Sip CAMRA beers at the Real Ale Festival, catch a classic flick at the late night cinema, or thoroughly recharge in the Garden of Eden. (www.kendalcalling.co.uk)

l I V e r P o o l I N t e r Nat I o Na l M U s I C f e s t I Va l ( l I M f )

In 2013, the home of the Beatles saw its annual major music festival, the Mathew Street Festival, rebooted to become the Liverpool International Music Festival. With a fresh new look, and a relocation to Sefton Park, LIMF has gone from strength to strength ever since. is fourth instalment unfolds from 22-24 July, and features major headlining talent at its Summer Jam centrepiece. Dance duo Sigma headline Saturday evening, with Liverpool’s very own pop legends e Wombats headlining the following day. While Singer-songwriter Lianne La Havas will also take to the stage with her inimitable mellow groove. (www.limfestival.com)

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auguST CreaMfIelds

Creamfields, heads back to Daresbury in Cheshire from 2528 August for another banging Bank Holiday. Mammoth crowds of 70,000 dance disciples slip on their disco wellies every year for what was last year voted the Best Dance Event in the UK Festival Awards for the eighth time. Creamfields returns this year for a four-day festival extravaganza, breaking the mould to become the first ever dance music festival to run across a four days. Friday’s entertainment also just got bigger as, for the first time ever, the colossal North Stage will be open for business and headlined by one of the world’s most in-demand electronic artists. (www.creamfields.com)

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e Se

All aboard at the Albert Dock! With three unique zones to discover, begin your adventure with Thomas and Rosie as you explore the Island of Sodor from Knapford Station to Tidmouth Sheds and Farmer McColl’s farm. Grab your tool belt and hard hat and lose yourself in the adventures of Bob and Wendy by joining the team as they hammer out solutions and create new buildings! Be transported to the Welsh village of Pontypandy where you can climb aboard Jupiter, explore the Ocean Rescue Centre and put fires out at sea, just like our heroes next door Fireman Sam™ and Penny!

mattelplayliverpool.com Mattel Play! Liverpool, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AA ©2016 HIT Entertainment Limited and Keith Chapman. ©2016 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2016 Prism Art & Design Limited. ©2016 HIT Entertainment Limited. ©2016 Mattel Inc. All rights reserved.

What ’s oN

WhaT ' S O n ? Spring events across the North West Your Exclusive guide to the best comedy, music, theatre and family activities across the North West throughout the Spring months.

events back in the 1920's. Starring West End and EastEnders actor John Partridge as Billy Flynn, Dancing on Ice Winner, and Coronation Street star Hayley Tammaddon as Roxie Heart and X Factor winner Sam Bailey as Matron “Mama” Morton. e two enemies fight to escape death with their smooth talking lawyer Billy Flynn. is exciting and truly spectacular story line will make you fall in love with Chicago.

t U e sday 5th aPrIl 2016 M a NChester areNa

MaNChester

MaNChester oPera hoUse M o N day 2 1 s t M a r C h t o s at U r day 2 N d a P r I l 2 0 1 6

C h I C ag O Chicago is the international awardwinning musical, based on true life

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JaneT JaCKSOn Worldwide Grammy award winning singer Janet Jackson will be heading into Manchester on her Unbreakable World Tour this April. Janet is ranked one of the 10 top selling artists in the history of contemporary music. She excites and encourages her fans through her music to love and become at one with their deepest feelings. Its sure to be an experience never to be forgotten by all who attend.

Spring 2016

frIday 8th to sUNday 10th aPrIl 2016 MaNChester aPollo

RIVeRDanCe e Riverdance tour of 2016 will mark the shows annual 21st birthday and will visit 13 venues across the UK. e show will feature dancers who were born in the first year that the Riverdance show originally opened. is is a spectacular show filled with passion and love for all to enjoy.

tUesday 12th to satUrday 16th aPrIl 2016 MaNChester loWry theatre

BReaKFaST aT TIFFanyS Breakfast at Tiﬀany’s is the iconic tale so memorably portrayed by Audrey Hepburn in the classic film in 1961. Today the film is being given a modern twist as Holly now being played by superstar Pixie Lott is taking to the stage, with love and laughter set to take over the stage. With such memorable songs from its era this production will capture the hearts of all who watch.

What ’s oN

fr I day 2 2 N d a P r I l a N d sat U r day 2 3 r d a P r I l 2 0 1 6 M a N C h e s t e r a r e Na

F I V e S e C O nDS OF SuMMeR is new world pop punk band took the world by storm in 2015 following the hit single “She Looks So Perfect”. e four-piece band who come from Sydney, Australia, are Luke Hemmings, Michael Cliﬀord, Calum Hood and Ashton Irwin. ey first started gaining their worldwide popularity on YouTube after they posted videos of themselves covering a number of songs which was soon viewed by thousands followed by millions. fr I day 6 t h M ay 2 0 1 6 M a N C h e s t e r a r e Na

Nottingham’s Capital FM Arena and the tour will close at Liverpool’s Echo Arena on 15th May 2016. is is something not to be missed. t h e PalaCe theatre, M a N C hester t U e s day 10th May to s at U r day 4th JUNe 2016

MaMMa MIa Mamma Mia, the award winning feel good musical, a story surrounded with love, passion, friendship, laughter and adorned with timeless classic ABBA songs, such as “Mamma Mia”, “Money, Money, Money”, “Dancing Queen” and “Waterloo”. e production has been seen by more than 54 million people in 49 productions and in 14 diﬀerent languages across the world.

BR ya n a DaMS Bryan Adams returns to the stage this May for the first time since 2014. e “Get Up” Tour will be in support of his upcoming album “Get Up”, which will be Bryans thirteenth studio album. e singer and musician will start oﬀ his arena tour dates on 28th April 2016 at

t U e s day 17th to satUrday 2 1 s t May 2016 M a N C hester oPera hoUse

JaCKIe The MuSICal Starring EastEnders and Doctors actress Janet Dibley as “Jackie”, Les

Spring 2016

Miserables star Graham Bickley as “John” and EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey as “Max”. is is a tale of no mobiles, no Facebook or no online dating and where excited teenage girls waited at their letterboxes for their weekly issue of Jackie Magazine. Jackie e Musical is where we revisit those love felt days, and watch the beautiful story of a recent divorcée who seeks advice once more from the pages of her old Jackie annuals. satUrday 21st May aNd frIday 3rd JUNe 2016 MaNChester areNa

BuSTeD Busted is one of the UK`s most beloved pop rock bands and after 10 years they have announced they are reuniting and will be heading out on tour in 2016. Unforgettable classics will be played such as “What I go to school for” and “Year 3000”. Over the years busted have had four number one smash hit singles which took them to the top and gave them the loyal fans that still remain today.

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What ’s oN

lIVerPool

1 4 t h aPrIl aNd 2 1 s t aPrIl 2016 l I V erPool eCho areNa

lIT Tle MIX 8th to 10th aPrIl 2016 l I V e r P o o l e C h o a r e Na

M e n a n D WOMen ’S a R T I S T I C gyMnaSTIC BRITISh C h a M p I OnShIpS is will be the last time you can see our Olympic and World Champion Medalists on home ground before they head oﬀ to Rio. You’ll also witness the rising of Britain’s young talented stars. Olympic medalists including Sam Oldham and Kristian omas will all be aiming to take top spot and impress ahead of the massive Olympic season fast approaching.

e new tour from the now world famous girl band is headlining 27 arena shows in the UK and Ireland during 2016. Little Mix will also be joined by guest singer Nathan Skyes. e four girls Perrie Edwards, Leigh-Anne, Jade irwall and Jessy Nelson became little mix in 2011 and have risen to the top following their massive success and win on the X Factor. ey have had two UK number 1 singles, two platinum albums and have sold over 7 million records all over the world.

2 3 r d aPrIl to 24th aPrIl 2 0 1 6 seftoN Park l I V erPool

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Spring 2016

Taking place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April 2016 in Sefton Park, the Liverpool Festival will celebrate the beginning of spring, with a number of activities such as a fresh flower fair, children’s enchanted garden and a live petting farm. Definitely something for all the family to enjoy.

MoNday 9th to satUrday 14th May 2016 lIVerPool eMP Ire

FOOTlOOSe Based in the 1980`s Footloose took the world by storm with its youthful spirit and upbeat music. is is the story of a city boy called Ren who moves from Boston, America, to a rural town where he protests against the towns ban of dancing. With Maureen Nolan playing Viv Moore this is bound to capture the hearts of all who watch.

th U r s day 1 9 t h M ay 2 0 1 6 lI V e r P o o l e M P I r e

O n e n I g h T OF Queen roughout the past 9 years “One Night of Queen” has sold out to audiences all over the world including, UK, Germany, Holland and France. Back from their USA tour Gary Mullen and e Works are coming to the UK with an extraordinary concert and fantastic staging.

fr I day 2 7 t h M ay 2 0 1 6 lI V e r P o o l P h I l h a r M o N I C ha l l

BIll BaIley lIMBOlanD Bill Bailey is returning with his sharp wit and intelligence. In this show he tells tales of finding himself in this halfway place of life, the gap between how we imagine our lives to be and how they actually really are. Bill challenges a

world that doesn’t match up to our expectations and debates the true nature of happiness. e show is bound to be full of laughter and fun in true Bill Bailey style.

1 4 t h J UNe 2016 l I V e r Pool eCho areNa

MoNday 4th to WedNe sday 6th aPrIl 2016 lIVerPool eMP Ire

elTOn JOhn

The laST TangO

Following his announcement of five massive summer dates, Elton has now added further British shows to his “Wonderful Crazy Tour” with Liverpool Echo Arena being one. e summer dates follow the release of his new album “Wonderful Crazy Night” which has a release date of February 5th 2016.

Fresh from their sell-out hit shows Midnight Tango and Dance till Dawn, Strictly stars Vincent Simone & Flavia Cacace have created their most moving production yet. e two strictly stars have been dancing together for twenty years which has seen them become one of the dancing favorites of Britain. Don’t miss your last chance to see this beautiful couple together doing what they do best.

Spring 2016

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