Liverpool exclusive spring 2015 by dan gheorghiu

ContentS

Fashion Grand National Fashion at Liverpool One.......……...............6 Who Sets e Liverpool Trends ?..………………………....14

Features Heaven Sent Bee-auty with Deborah Mitchell…………….24 A Labour Of Love at Wong’s Jewellers…………………….32 e Triple Crown : Cunard’s ree Queens Celebration….36 Larking About In Lark Lane………………………………52 e Great Escape : Ten Years Since ‘e Miracle of Istanbul’.56 Take at & Party : At Delamere Manor……………….….60 Sharp Shooter : An Interview With An Everton Legend…...86 e Grand National Is Back…………………......……….100 Driving To e Top : Declan Jones………………………108

Eating & Drinking Spring Dining In Liverpool…………..................................64 Amanzi Makes A Splash…………………...........................70

Business Come Fly With Me : e World’s First Flying Butler…………...74 e Mysterious World Of Pensions..............................................76

photography Grand National Feature Images : Bond Media Agency Declan Jones : Bond Media Agency & Steven Roe Images The Three Queens : The Cunard Image Library SaleS & Marketing : Vivien Dunlop Karen Watkins

Spring 2015

ContentS

Liverpool Events This Spring’ Southport Flower Show……………………..……………80 Liverpool Events is Spring…………....................….…112 Southport Fashion show…………………………………126

Family & Culture Keep Your Easter Bunnies Hoppy…………………………46 Full Of Easter Promise : Beautiful Prague…….……………42 e Historical Epstein eatre…………………………...110 Giving e Gift Of Time : Claire House…………………122

Like us On Liverpool Exclusive Magazine

FeatureS & advertiSing enquirieS Neil Wilson 07809 226112 n.wilson@dwpublishing.eu deSign & produCtion Expression Graphic Studio e ditor Simon Grant e ditorial Arthur Johnson Simon Grant

publiShed by dW publiShing (uk) ltd Head Office: Heritage House 9b Hoghton Street Southport PR9 0TE Telephone : 01704 516564 07809 226112 www.exclusive-magazines.co.uk E mail : info@exclusive-magazines.co.uk

Spring 2015

liverpool ONE

Race ahead in the style stakes

With e Crabbie’s Grand National Festival at Aintree fast-approaching, we headed to John Lewis in Liverpool ONE to talk to personal stylist Faye Mines about the best way to ensure you’re races ready. Faye said: “In the run up to the races there are so many diﬀerent things to think about: e perfect flattering dress, blister free high heels and smudge proof make-up - just a few items on a very long list.” Dresses are a popular choice; however there are plenty of other options if you want to mix it up a little. Faye suggests 6

a style staple such as a classic and elegant ‘pencil skirt’- pair with a floaty pussy bow blouse, super high heels and a statement hat for a chic races look. To keep this look on trend, contrast subtle nudes and dusky pinks with brighter tones. is can be done easily with accessories, like a jewel toned bag, or by wearing a bright lipstick. Jumpsuits are also a good option, as they are comfortable yet stylish and will keep you warm on cooler days. e very fashion forward and brave could opt for a trouser suit, which seems to be making something of a

Spring 2015

comeback for 2015 but be warned, this trend isn’t for the faint hearted and will be sure to make you stand out from the crowd. It is important to remember that the weather may not always be on your side, so a cover-up is essential. Faye added: “A wrap is ideal as this will fold up to fit into your bag during the day and will keep your outfit fuss-free.” Cropped jackets are also a races winner and can be draped over dresses to create a chic, layered look. John Lewis Personal Stylist Clare Jones

liverpool ONE

believes there are three factors to consider when picking the perfect races outfit; these are colour, cut and style. Clare said: “Choose a colour that complements your skin tone; cooler skin tones are best suited to blue based colours but anyone with a warmer complexion should go for yellow based colours.” She added: “It is also important to get the perfect cut to flatter your figure, and remember to stick to classic styles.” Whatever your personal style is it is sure to be reflected on the big day.

Try to remember that whatever you wear will have to be comfortable throughout the day so it is imperative to remember that those sky high heels might be fine for two hours but you will most probably spend a large portion of the day on your feet. Take blister plasters in your bag in a bid to prepare for the worst but no one will blame you for choosing style over practicality, it’s par for the course. Hats and fascinators are a must for the races. A statement hat can be a real game changer and will make any outfit pop. Finding a hat that suits you can

Darker skin tones can pull oﬀ bolder hues and lighter skin tones should try and stick to neutrals and pastels so their complexion doesn’t become overwhelmed. Try the hat on and trust your instincts – you will be the best judge of what will suit your face shape. If you still can’t decide, reach out to an in-store stylist like Clare for that expert second opinion. Florals and bows are a modern take on the head wear trend and fascinators make for a happy alternative to a hat. Heart shaped faces will look amazing in asymmetrical fascinators while round faces should try and find tall hats that will lengthen their features. Getting it right can be a challenge but by following a few simple steps from John Lewis and Liverpool ONE, you are guaranteed to be a front runner in the style stakes in no time.

John leWiS ColleCtion at liverpool one gold ClutCh bag £22

FrenCh ConneCtion@John leWiS at liverpool one penCil Skirt £70

be a challenge and bear in mind colour rules apply here too.

Steve Madden@John leWiS at liverpool one JeWel ShoeS £85

Spring 2015

Off to the Races e racing season is almost upon us and fashion and style leaders Liverpool ONE can guarantee you will stand out from the crowd. As oﬃcial style partner of e Grand National Festival, Liverpool’s top retail and leisure destination really is a onestop for all of your race needs.

Liverpool ONE has everything you need for Aintree this year including top stylists, personal shoppers, hair and make-up artists who are ready and waiting to advise you on your own bespoke style. It’s never too early to start getting ready.

Fascinator, Debenhams, Liverpool ONE - £15

All the high end brands call Peter’s Lane at Liverpool ONE home, from Ted Baker London to Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols and Flannels. It really is the ultimate style destination for all fashionistas.

Necklace, Miquella @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £199 Dress, Roberto Cavalli @ Flannels, Liverpool ONE - £770 Shoes, Kurt Geiger @ Topshop, Liverpool ONE - £55

Be it Ladies Day or the Grand National, the jewel in the Aintree crown, be noticed this year with a pop of colour. A fuchsia fascinator will liven every outfit or why not opt for florals as your headgear to channel Spring. Keeping the skirt lengths in check and accessorise with bold cobalt bags and earrings that sparkle to look like one fine filly. Mirror the sun shine with a yellow dress – on trend and a great statement piece to wow, so you will look and feel like a winner even if you don’t pick first place.

Hair: Phill Gallagher @ Electric Hair Lounge - Beauty Bazaar,

Jacket, Hobbs, Liverpool ONE - £169

Harvey Nichols

Dress, Hobbs, Liverpool ONE - £139

Makeup: Zara Rowe @ NARS – Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols Nails: Sonia Jesson @ Nails inc. – Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols Model: Beth Waite @ Industry People Photographer: Viktorija Grigorjevaite @ Sane Seven ltd www.saneseven.com Stylist: Zoe Tilston Location: Browns, Liverpool ONE www.browns-restaurants.co.uk Peter’s Lane, Liverpool ONE

Shoes, Kurt Geiger, Liverpool ONE - £55 Sunglasses, Ray Ban, Sunglasses Hut @ John Lewis, Liverpool ONE £170 Ear clips, Lisa C. Bijoux @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £111

Dress, French Connection @ John Lewis, Liverpool ONE - £115 Shoes, New Look, Liverpool ONE - £17.99 Bag, Hobbs, Liverpool ONE - £99 Necklace, Lola Rose @ John Lewis - £49 Ear clips, Roberto Cavalli @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £409 Cuﬀ, Roberto Cavalli @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £521 Dress, French Connection @ John Lewis,LiverpoolONE-£125 Necklace, Dune, Liverpool ONE - £29 Bracelet, Dune, Liverpool ONE - £29 Clutch, Reiss, Liverpool ONE - £85

Dress, Ted Baker London, Liverpool ONE - £129 Ear clips, Lisa C Bijoux @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £135 Bag, Dune, Liverpool ONE - £29 Shoes, New Look, Liverpool ONE - £19.99 Fascinator, Debenhams, Liverpool ONE - £15 Dress, Damsel in a Dress @ John Lewis, Liverpool ONE - £149 Hair clip, John Lewis, Liverpool ONE - £22 Bag, Hobbs, Liverpool ONE - £89 Shoes, Kurt Geiger @ Topshop, Liverpool ONE - £55 Ear clips, Philippe Ferrandis @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE - £143

Get the Look with Liverpool ONE liverpool ONE

Phill Gallagher from Electric Hair Lounge created this races-ready look. e secret? e revolutionary new e.spray from Electric Hair – e.Spray defines movement, and fixes naturally, yet with strong hold. e spray is easily brushed out, with no residue. Hold can 30 - 40cm away from the hair and spray. To restyle simply brush - restyle and respray!

Prep the hair with your choice of shampoo from the Electric shampoo and conditioner collection (£17.50 - £18.50) for soft and shiny tresses that are infinitely workable. If you don’t think you can achieve this look yourself, head to Electric Hair Lounge @ Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols in Liverpool ONE for some assistance in creating the perfect race hair style, guaranteed to stay in place all day.

A strong lip and pared down eyes will make any outfit pop. Make-up artist Zara Rowe used NARS Red Square lip pencil (£18) to create the perfect pillar box pout.

Prep and prime the skin with NARS Luminous Moisture Cream (£42) before applying foundation for a dewy glow that will stay on all day. Make-up artist Zara used NARS Sheer Glow foundation (£31) to achieve this flawless finish.

Take a cue from your jewellery when it comes to make-up. is Maharajda set from Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE perfectly complements the look. Necklace - Philippe Ferrandis Maharadjah necklace £ 335.00 @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE Earrings – Philippe Ferrandis Maharadjah ear clips £143 @ Cadenzza, Liverpool ONE

Apply loose shimmery powder like the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder (£26) along the cheekbone for filly high, razor sharp cheekbones. Shade with NARS bronzing powder (£27) in the hollow of the cheek to further emphasise the cheekbone.

Spring 2015

Brows frame the face and a strong brow is essential races make-up. If you aren’t lucky enough to be born with Audrey Hepburn esque brows then create them with the NARS Brow Gel (£16.50) and Brow Perfector (£16.50).

FaShion claSSiFiEdS

BOudOir BOutiquE

ViViENNE WEStWOOd

KarEN MillEN

Cavern Walks 8 Mathew Street Liverpool L2 6RE Tel.: 0151 231 1424 www.boudoir-boutique.com

Cavern Walks 8 Mathew Street Liverpool L2 6RE Tel.: 0151 227 2700 www.viviennewestwood.co.uk

12 Peters Lane Liverpool ONE L1 3DE Tel.: 0151 703 0828 www.karenmillen.com

Established in 2007, Boudoir Boutique started as a small store which quickly needed to expand due to demand. e store now trades from two floors in Cavern Walks and is a major destination for all those girls in the know in Liverpool. Boudoir Boutique has designer collections from Meghan Fabulous, Manoush, Pinko, Zandra Rhodes, Forever Unique, Terry De Havillands, Bolengaro Trevor, Gwen Steﬀani's collection LAMB, Penelope & Parker bags, Butler and Wilson, Mawi - all collectable and timeless pieces set in a rich oppulent store. Boudoir Boutique oﬀers fashion styling and consultation advice for events and special occasions and has a celebrity client list.

e Vivienne Westwood store in Liverpool has recently enjoyed a refurbishment and houses the full range of collections from the Grande Dame of British Fashion. Gold Label, Red Label, Anglomania and MAN menswear sit beautifully alongside a comprehensive selection of accessories, jewellery and small leather goods. e Vivienne Westwood portfolio of fragrances are also available to buy in store and all product can be viewed and purchased online. With a design record spanning over 40 years, beginning with punk rock in the 1970s, Vivienne Westwood's designs have had significant cultural repercussions far beyond the world of fashion. Today, the Vivienne Westwood brand produces clothes and accessories that appeal to a wide audience: from young to old, rock to royalty.

Karen Millen is an international fashion house with stores in over 65 countries including global fashion capitals around the world. Under the creative direction of their CCO, Gemma Metheringham, their collection has evolved to oﬀer a luxurious high-low mix of perfectly cut trend-led pieces and seasonal wardrobe staples including their iconic leather biker jacket. Every piece in their collection is designed, cut and finished in their design studio based in Shoreditch London, to ensure their brand continues to stand for exceptional quality, craftsmanship and cutting edge design. ey create modern eﬀortless fashion for today’s intelligent, urban woman.

FlaNNElS

arMaNi ExchaNgE

MiSS FraNcESca cOuturE

1 Manesty‘s Lane Liverpool ONE L1 3DL Tel.: 0151 703 9380 www.flannels.com

35 Whitechapel Liverpool L1 6DA Tel.: 0151 242 0777 www.armaniexchange.com

35 Whitechapel Liverpool L1 6DA Tel: 0151 207 5959 www.missfrancescacouture.co.uk

Flannels is the UK's largest independent luxury retail group, specialising in contemporary Mens and Womenswear designer fashion, footwear and accessories. Neil Prosser, the founder and independent owner of e Flannels Group, opened his first shop at 88 King Street in Knutsford, Cheshire. rough gut instinct and an innovative spirit keen to promote where other retailers feared to tread, the company rapidly grew with further stores opening in leading UK cities Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, Nottingham and Cardiﬀ. Today, Flannels continues to strive for excellence and source key pieces and collections from the world’s most well known iconic brands, alongside innovative new designers.

Armani Exchange are known for their polished, fashionable and trendy clothes and accesories. Always voguish they oﬀer hundreds of styles, each perfect for the season. You can check their lookbook on the website which shows you the top picks. eir clothes and accesories are high-class and have a unique and flattering look. Often worn by celebrities Armani Exchange have it all. ey have both formal and informal wear and they also have both a womens and mens line. So give your wardrobe a modish revamp, with the label Armani Exchange you know you’re going to be looking fabulous!

It was always a dream of hers to become a Fashion Designer, and since graduating from Liverpool John Moores University in 2008 with a BA Hons in Fashion Design, it is safe to say this dream has been realised. Only happy when creating clothes, Francesca decided that no other job would do, and Miss Francesca Couture was born. Miss Francesca Couture has gone from strength to strength and the label is now a favourite with trend-setting fashionistas all over the UK and has become popular with style icons and celebrities wanting the WOW factor. Feminine & flirty, floaty, frivolous & fun is how she describes the signature look of Miss Francesca Couture, with quality being paramount, and oﬀered through beautiful detailing, extreme silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics.

Spring 2015

BeaCHwear KIT TEN

SrI lanka kaftan £32.5 0

he Kitten vision began many years ago as a glimmer in its founder’s eye, but those ambitious thoughts became a reality, when in late 2012 the gleaming new Kitten online boutique emerged. As an online designer beachwear boutique founded out of the dreams of sun-loving, globe-trotting, beachworshipper, Gail Conder, Kitten’s ‘mission statement’ has always been to cater to the discerning customer through combining a high priority on customer service with luxuriously stylish and quality garments that reflect high aspiration. With many years of experience in fast paced, high pressure careers, Gail has spent many holidays admiring the vibrant and inspiring beachwear items worn on the golden beaches of the world. Swimming in crystal clear waters, enjoying the smell of coconut oil and the sweetness of a cheeky summer cocktail surrounded by the people she cared about, inspired her to continue her love aﬀair with the beach and in particular, finest beachwear collections. Undoubtedly, Kitten was created from a passion for beautiful and exquisite beachwear, and promises a unique collection of the most luxurious resort wear of the season, the whole year through. Testament to her shrewd business success to date, Gail’s stunning collection of luxury items, are handpicked and showcased with clients in mind. Significantly, since its humble beginnings, Kitten continues to grow in Burma popularity as one of the UK’s ever expanding luxury beachwear and beach lifestyle retailers. Of course, Kitten’s ever growing collections are borne from the desire to provide chic, sophisticated and aspirational beachwear items to women everywhere and not surprisingly, well deserved holidays and luxury beach escapes are integral to the Kitten brand essence and her customers.

aSIa Beaded kaftan £79.95

Belted kaftan £32.50

IndIa SwarovSkI CryStal kaftan £79.95

Women around the world look forward to their holiday getaways and weekends at the beach; a chance to cast aside their coats, ditch their jumpers and roll out the bright, beautiful and timeless beachwear they dream about all year, relaxing and enjoying the company of friends and family or even just a bit of time to themselves, truly encapsulating what holidays are all about. www.kittenbeachwear.com @Kitten4Fashion Kitten Beachwear 12

St. tropez kaftan - £ 7 9 . 9 5

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BeaCHwear KIT TEN

1 2

8 6

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

m a r B e l l a ka f ta n £ 7 9 . 9 5 B a r B a d o S B e a d e d ka f ta n £ 7 9 . 9 5 p e ta lo u d e S S wa r ov S k I C r y S ta l ka f ta n £ 6 4 . 9 5 a f r I C a B e a d e d ka f ta n £ 3 2 . 5 0 a n t I g ua Be a d e d ka f ta n £ 6 9 . 9 5 l e m o r n e S wa r ov S k I C r y S ta l ka f ta n £ 7 9 . 9 5 B a r B a d o S B e a d e d ka f ta n £ 7 9 . 9 5 I n d I a S war ov S k I C r y S ta l k I m o n o t o p £ 6 4 . 9 5 S t. t r o p e z ka f ta n £ 7 9 . 9 5 Spring 2015

CHIC ltd are a north west pr and events company specialising in the fashion and lifestyle industry. they have built up a reputation as a fashionable, friendly, team who are specialists at what they do. If you’d like to work with or know more about CHIC visit www.chicnetworking.co.uk fashion, lifestyle, health, beauty, trends featuring opinions and tips from industry specialists. Contact the team at info@chicnetworking.co.uk

Who sets the Liverpool trends? In this issue we will be discussing the controversy and influences around Liverpool Fashion. We are featuring a North West fashion blogger discussing how and where they seek trends and what influence it has on their style/designs. Allie Davies is a Liverpool born blogger, who is studying in Manchester which gave her an edge when it comes to her knowledge on the North West style. [http://tie-dye-eyes.blogspot.co.uk/] It is arguable that the Liverpool style is seemingly different to that of London. We all watch London Fashion Week in awe of the innovative designs and anticipate the trends which will come out of them. ere is no doubt that much of what we are wearing has been moulded and inspired by what we see on the LFW catwalk. However, if the North West has such a different style, what are the reasons for this? Is it the different boutiques, the celebrity or blogger influence, the culture or events? How do we collectively dress in a certain way? We ask some of the leading influencers in Liverpool fashion to find out.

Whether you think you follow trends or not, there will be a moment when you are unconsciously struck by the ever changing world of 'the fashion trend’. Out of the blue, seemingly, trends manifest - captivating, enticing and without any warning it is undoubtable that you will be wearing the very thing you swore you'd never ever see in your wardrobe again. Each season we’re tempted and seduced by our favourite glossies with the new trends and catwalk shows which all seem to correlate perfectly. Is there a fashion meeting in which designers all come together to decide on the trends or is it sheer coincidence that each fashion house wanted to bring back flares or knee high boots. We all learnt from e Devil Wears Prada that the blue belt Anne Hathaway is holding is not just a blue belt, nope, Miranda Priestley well informed us on its representation of millions of dollars and countless decisions Liverpool thrives oﬀ runway events like the Fashion and Lifestyle Show and North West Fashion Festival (NWFF) due to the top fashion weeks being so

Spring 2015

inaccessible. Although we can watch them on the web, we want to live and experience the catwalk shows ourselves. e models will take to the centre stage showcasing designs from the likes of Mark Melia, KU Spendlove and Francesca Couture, all celebrity favourites. e magazines and papers are soon flooded with images of these extravagant wares, influencing the fashion industry and young girls of Liverpool. Liverpool is a very loyal city and the community utilises the amazing brands which have stemmed from within it. e boutiques are exclusively fabulous with eclectic styles setting trends across the UK. e style is without a doubt exceptionally glam, and the bloggers from our city definitely promote that. Celebrities like Abbey Clancy exuberate gorgeous glamour which sets the benchmark for girls in the city to aspire to. As social media has taken over, who influences our style has become open to a much wider source. We look to celebrities, fashion bloggers, stylists, models…and not to mention the

feature FASHION coverage of events we can now witness. North West Blogger Allie Davies (tiedye-eyes.blogspot.co.uk) tells us her opinion; “What I love about the NW style is our passion for independent brands, not just clothing boutiques but restaurants, book shops and bars. We like to have our own identity, but within that, there are so many subcultures and we do a good job of celebrating those. It’s not just London that has an eclectic style, we do here too!” ere is a lot to say for Liverpool Fashion and how it stands out on a national level. Celebrities from the city would never be described as having boring taste with the likes of Colleen Rooney, Alex Curran and Abbey Clancy taking centre stage of our weekly mags. e vibrant clubs and bars also encourage glamour and the quote “you can never be too overdressed” comes to mind when thinking of a scouse night out. e city is what keeps CHIC events alive, the demand for class and all things beautiful will never go out of style in Liverpool.

teaming up with “My Liverpool Life” to oﬀer an exceptional experience during prostate cancer awareness month. ere will be an 18 piece swing band, champagne reception, 3 course dinner and a male fashion show showcasing some internally renowned designers. To enquire or book a table email info@chicnetworking.co.uk.

For information on how to get involved or attend any of the above events please visit www.chicnetworking.co.uk or email the team info@chicnetworking.co.uk.

Save the dates 11th-13th of September to be involved in the fashion extravaganza of a weekend. e annual North West Fashion Festival is back with an exciting twist of events, bringing you more class, champagne and entertainment than ever before. With an expansion to a full weekend of fashion, guests will have so much more to experience. NWFF is a high-profile fashion and networking event featuring a showstopping fashion exhibition with some of the biggest brands in the area. Not to mention the host of celebrity guests, bringing together the region’s leading influencers, designers and fashion lovers for an event that celebrates the North West’s growing reputation as a style destination.

If you are a fashion lover don't miss some of the most CHIC events in the city…On Sunday 15th March 2015, Chic Networking are hosting their biannual Liverpool Fashion and Lifestyle Show. is Mother’s Day Fashion event is being held at the Hilton Hotel, Liverpool from 3pm. e perfect way to treat the most important lady in your life, with mum and daughter tickets available and a free gift for all mums on the day. With shopping, fashion shows, cocktails and canapes, your mum won’t be disappointed. Tickets available now from Eventbrite or www.chicnetworking.co.uk. On Saturday March the 28th, 2015, an exclusive Black Tie Charity Dinner and Fashion Show will be held at the unique venue, Titanic Hotel, Stanley Dock. e event will be in aid of Prostate Cancer and CHIC will be

Spring 2015

TOWIE's Georgia Kousoulou turns fashion designer to create her own line for Fuschia White With her girl-next-door good looks and natural flair for fashion, TOWIE's Georgia Kousoulou has hundreds of thousands of female fans keen to emulate her style. e star, who likes to make trends rather than follow them, has created a complete clothing line for Fuschia White, a chic online boutique for fashion lovers. Georgia has been proudly wearing her own designs for Fuschia White while enjoying party season nights out with her boyfriend, Tommy Mallet. Pictures of Georgia wearing top-to-toe Fuschia White have already been dominating the fashion pages in the national press, leading to a surge in demand for key pieces from her collection. Georgia said: "I love my collection for Fuschia White because every piece is different and unique. e pieces range from comfy to perfect for a glam night out. I have chosen carefully to create an ideal all-round wardrobe." Fuschia White was the brainchild of North West-based sisters, Lubaina Zulfikar Karimjee and Lamya Ali Dalal, who have followed in the footsteps of the Kardashian sisters to launch their own fashion empire. e website was born out of their desire to create a website based on quality rather than quantity, helping women to avoid the ultimate fashion faux pas of turning up to an event wearing the same outfit as someone else. Keeping fashion fresh, every two weeks a new collection is uploaded onto the website, focusing on colour, detail and design. Each piece is unique, which goes with the sisters' motto of being different. ey want to make sure that women feel confident when wearing a piece from the collection, yet still feel natural and feel "Simplicity is elegance". Despite the overnight success of Georgia's debut collection for Fuschia White, the sisters have resisted the temptation to cash in on the collaboration, keeping prices surprisingly affordable. Georgia's stunning 'Snow White' necklace is priced at just £12, while her classic soft touch blazer (a true wardrobe staple) costs just £30. Her 'Lady in Red' trousers and blazer cost just £25 each and are already a firm favourite of the fashion press. e collaboration between Georgia Kousoulou and Fuschia White marks another exciting chapter for Lubaina and Lamya, who have been delighted by how quickly their website has taken off. With the Georgia Kousoulou collection attracting a whole new audience of fashion lovers to the stylish website, Lubaina and Lamya are preparing for a whirlwind start to 2015. Shopping from the latest celebrity range has never been easier! www.fuschiawhite.co.uk

Cheshire Oaks

Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is the largest designer outlet in the UK and a leading shopping destination in the North West. It is home to over 145 high street and premium brands including Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Barbour, Joules, Superdry, Swarovski and Reiss, all at up to 60% less, all year round. From international boutiques and high street favourites to stylish homeware stores, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is the onestop shop for all your must-have labels. But it’s not just about the shopping - you can take some time out to unwind at one of the many cafés and restaurants. With ample free parking and family friendly facilities, whatever your plans you’re guaranteed an enjoyable day out.

You can visit us by coach, car, rail or bus, for more information on planning your visit to Cheshire Oaks visit our website. 18

spring 2015

Located just north of picturesque Chester, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet is easily accessible for customers travelling from all over the UK. We’re just 35 minutes from Liverpool, oﬀ junction 10 of the M53 and just 45 minutes from Manchester, oﬀ junction 15 of the M56.

www.cheshireoaksdesigneroutlet.com

Cheshire Oaks

CHESHIRE OAKS SPRING IS THE PERFECT TIME TO OVERHAUL YOUR WARDROBE, OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE KEY INVESTMENT PIECES THAT WORK WONDERS ANY DAY OF THE WEEK! CHESHIRE OAKS DESIGNER OUTLET HAS SELECTED SOME KEY WARDROBE STAPLES FOR THE SEASON AHEAD FROM SOUGHT AFTER BRANDS ALL WITH UP TO 60% LESS.

LACOSTE BLUE POLO SHIRT RRP £75 OUTLET PRICE £52.50

JAEGER PALE BLUE SHIRT RRP £65 OUTLET PRICE £40

Team with casual jeans for a laid back look or with a fitted suit for a clean cut style.

OSPREY MEN’S DIRECTOR SUNGLASSES – RRP £95 OUTLET PRICE £59

Less is more when it comes to a good time piece, a classic black strap will take you through all seasons

EMPORIO ARMANI BY CHAPELLE JEWELLERY RRP £150 OUTLET PRICE £90 20

spring 2015

TED BAKER SACHEL RRP £109 OUTLET PRICE £65

Cheshire Oaks

FOSSIL GOLD CRYSTAL NECKLACE RRP £119 OUTLET PRICE £74.99

Monochrome is key this spring and a trend that stays classic year after year

FRENCH CONNECTION MONOCHROME COURT SHOE RRP £99 - OUTLET PRICE £59

FURLA ONYX JULIA CROSS BODY BAG RRP £205 OUTLET PRICE £133 KAREN MILLEN Perfect for that day-to-night look

ZIG ZAG DRESS RRP £170 OUTLET PRICE £65

spring 2015

fEaturE HEAVEN

Heaven Sent Bee-auty Heaven Skincare by Deborah Mitchell Beloved by celebrities and royalty alike, renowned beautician, Deborah Mitchell, and her Heaven skincare brand, is globally renowned for luxurious age-defying products. Counting the Minogue sisters, the Duchess of Cornwall, and Victoria Beckham among her many loyal customers, Deborah has taken

the beauty industry by storm and is perhaps best known for formulating needle-less Botox alternatives containing bee venom. Simon Grant got on the treatment table for an Exclusive interview packed full of exclusives!

ExclusivE ExclusivEs! ExclusivE: surprising agE-dEfying ingrEdiEnts rEvEalEd for thE first timE ExclusivE: dEborah's swapp ing thE uK for sunniEr climEs but whErE? ExclusivE: bEE vEnom brEaKthrough drEamEd up whilE trEating a royal ExclusivE: which dragon's offEr of ÂŁ100,000 did shE turn d own?

Spring 2015

fEaturE HEAVEN

ou may not have heard of Deborah Mitchell. But you will have almost certainly seen her Heaven skincare products at work on some VERY famous faces. Because this aﬀable 48-year-old, and her agedefying bee venom products, have been the secret sting in the tail for the beauty rituals of Royals, celebrities and world leaders' wives for years.

T H E R oyA l SEAl of AppRoVAl Remember when Kate Middleton, as she was then, stepped out for her first major public engagement? You know the one: the small matter of a Royal wedding to Prince William, second in line to the throne. An event that was screened live to more than 180 countries worldwide. Well, the Duchess of Cambridge's regal glow wasn't just the blush of a bride-tobe. In actual fact, HRH – and her mother-in-law, Camilla – had enjoyed a bee venom facial with Deborah herself just days before the ceremony. “ey are the kindest people,” the famously discrete beauty entrepreneur tells us. “ey're more amazing than anybody would ever know. I'm so proud that we have Royals in our country and it's made me even prouder to have met them and know how much hard work they put in.” “I'm very proud to have my Christmas card every year and I do get presents as well,” Deborah adds, politely declining to reveal exactly what gifts a Duchess bequeaths. It was the Duchess of Cornwall who first gave the Royal seal of approval to Deborah's Heaven treatments. A secret visit, by a Royal aide, and some surreptitious testing of Deborah's products, heralded a summons to treat Camilla in person at Clarence House. A prospect described as both exciting and daunting, even to someone who began her beauty career treating the wives of Duran Duran and now counts A-listers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Michelle Pfeiﬀer among her clients.

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fEaturE HEAVEN

THE BiRTH of THE BEE VENoM MASk “I kept on thinking, 'I am going to go, aren't I? I can't possibly go to the Palace,' says Deborah, with her soft but unmistakable Midland lilt. “e rest is sort of history really because while I was treating Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall, I actually invented the bee venom in my head,” she adds in an ExclusivE admission just for us. “I caught sight of my reflection in her mirror and thought, 'God I need Botox.' But I didn't want to look like Spock! I went to bed that night and thought about it. en I started making the bee venom product. I put rather a lot of honey in it to begin with but it was too sticky for a moisturiser. So I put it on as a mask and that's when the 'bee venom mask' was born. “I called it that so that nobody would know what this real extra secret ingredient was in it that was making the skin so young. It contains bee venom, royal jelly, Manuka honey, and a very secret ingredient – real botulism toxin found in the hive.” Deborah wouldn't tell us how that's extracted, it's a closely guarded secret of her patented Abeetoxin® formula. Nonetheless, this is another ExclusivE that she has never publicly shared with anyone until now.

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fEaturE HEAVEN

A l i f E T i M E'S DEVoTioN T o B E Au T y Deborah's path to stardom began firmly in the limelight of the beauty industry. In fact, she started oﬀ as a model (competing in Miss UK contests) and an actress (something she admits she wasn't very good at). She quickly tired with life in front of the lens however. Particularly with an acneriddled complexion that was sabotaging her confidence as well as her casting calls. Taking a course in beauty therapy, to heal her skin ailment, Deborah found that her head was turned for good. “When I started doing the beauty, I felt like I was home when I was treating people,” she says. “I kept on wanting to achieve more and luckily they taught me how to make products.”

“He said, 'well there's this vegetable alternative,' she tells us, before slipping in yet another ExclusivE by revealing exactly what that mystery ingredient was. “It was sweat out of vegetables actually and it made a type of hyaluronic acid that plumps the skin out and stops acne. So, I said 'I'm having it!' “All my customers stopped having spots and got very young, very quickly. Age Defiance was born and it was superb. I put vitamins in it because stressed skin lacking in B vitamins – especially B12 and B6 – causes spots. So I thought pop it on your skin and Bob's your uncle.”

With a £10 pack of nails, the skincare magnate began her first salon in the midnineties. Her first tip, the princely sum of £1, was a revelation to her. Soon enough she was channelling a childhood fascination with herbal remedies into developing her own remedies. She would hand her products to clients, free of charge, and found that they would fix their skin without fail. However, she was left shattered when her formulas were copied. “I sort of cried for about four days and I thought, 'do you know what I'm going to do? I'm just going to make something better,'” she confides. So it was that she returned to her cosmetics contact to find out what the most luxurious skin product, that nobody else dared use, would be.

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fEaturE HEAVEN

D i T c H i N g A DRAgoN pAyS off e undeniable eﬀects of Deborah's products very quickly made waves worldwide and in 1997 she was invited to Hong Kong to market her goods to Asia. Deborah never went through with the deal though. Partly through fear but also due to the spectre of leaky packaging. Wracked by the need to upgrade, but unsure of how she'd fund such an overhaul, Deborah received a surprise oﬀer from a familiar business angel. “eo Paphitis met me,” she E x c lu s i v E ly reveals. “He wanted to give me £100,000 to sort out my packaging in return for help with his formulas for La Senza, which he owned then. I had to put my name on the back, and Heaven, but I wasn't prepared to make a cheaper product. I actually turned down a Dragon before Dragon's Den!” she says with glee.

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“He very much checks up on you and phones a lot. I felt that would be restrictive for me, because I'm a free bird really. I still own my company now. I have no shareholders, and no loans, because I don't want anybody telling me what to do,” she adds with a giggle. Following a ringing endorsement from Victoria Beckham (she's a fan of Age Defiance incidentally), and that Royal summons, Heaven's stock rose heavenward. So much so that Deborah did eventually sign a lucrative contract to bring a touch of Heaven to the Asian market. Her patience paid oﬀ. She's now five years in to an investment plan worth an eyewatering £100 million over ten years. As a result, there are now 2,400 Heaven stores in Asia (including a brand new outlet at the top of the vertiginous Taipei 101 building, formerly the highest building in the world), 230 in Dubai, and a growing number in both the United States and Europe.

fEaturE HEAVEN

T H E Q u E E N BEE of coSMETicS TA R g E T S g loBAl D oMiNATioN In another candid – and E x c lu s i v E – bombshell, Deborah revealed that her globetrotting lifestyle has prompted her to quit Britain altogether and relocate to sunnier climes. “I actually still do mobile beauty therapy, if you think about it really. I just sometimes get put on a private plane, and get flown all around the world, to do it now! “ she laughs modestly. “But I'm actually now becoming a resident of Dubai and I've got oﬃces there. Instead of just selling and distributing to them we've got a company out there now that we've just launched,” she adds. So, as the queen bee of cosmetics' growing empire propels her towards world domination of the beauty industry, surely there can't be many more territories that Deborah would like to crack? Well, there is one region, in fact, that is thus far yet to fully embrace the buzz surrounding Heaven's bee venom products: the North West.

“I think that people from the North West are the nicest people in the whole of England,” says Deborah. “I absolutely adore them and I know that they're really lovely people. I would love for them to use my products more.” Having read all about Deborah's fascinating life, and her wrinkle-busting products, we're pretty confident our readers will be swarming, like bees to honey, to knock on Heaven's door. e Heaven Health and Beauty Salon can be found at 13a Market Place, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 9AU. Personal treatments with Deborah Mitchell are available at the Shifnal salon and at the Hale Clinic in London. To make an appointment, call 01952 461888 or email sales@heavenskincare.com. For more information about Heaven's extensive range of skincare products, visit www.heavenskincare.com, or follow on social media at the 'heaven skincare' Facebook page and @heavenskincare on Twitter.

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Mococo Celebrates Bumper Year with Surprise Party North West jewellery emporium Mococo toasted an exceptional year with a decadent party held at Chester Racecourse’s 1539 Restaurant, over a hundred staﬀ members from Mococo’s seven stores gathered for the event. Staﬀ expected a belated low-key Christmas celebration, in reality they arrived to discover Mococo bosses had organised a surprise indulgent event as a thank you for all of their hard work within the growing family business. A surprise awards ceremony was introduced with emotion and gratitude by Lee and Maureen Hooson, the husband and wife team who established Mococo with a £250 startup investment just eight years ago.

CANAPES AT 1539 RESTAURANT AT MOCOCO PARTY JANUARY 2015

ISABELLA MIOTTI, LUCINDA HASSALL, ANGHARAD WAINWRIGHT CANAPES AT THE MOCOCO PARTY AT 1539 CHESTER RACECOURSE CATHERINE CURTIS, DEBBIE ROBERTS & DAVID CHALLINOR

CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION AT MOCOCO PARTY JANUARY 2015 CHLOE HUGHES, SAMANTHA HUGHES, SARAH PARRY & DANIELLE BORROWMAN

Speaking about the party, Lee Hooson, managing director of Mococo said; “We’re dedicated to giving the best to our customers and we couldn’t do it without the amazing team we have, the awards were a fantastic way to thank and honour the people who help make Mococo such a success.” Designer jewellery brands including Pandora, omas Sabo, ChloBo and Swarovski provided prizes to the winning staff. ere was sumptuous food including oysters and desserts served with dry ice, and popular choices at the bar included speciality cocktails named after Mococo’s new signature fragrance, Damson Noir, and its recently launched bridal collection, Coco Kiss. Other surprise touches included a Photo Booth and Mococo cut-out photo board which have been collated in a permanent memory book. Up and coming girl band, EGO, performed a set of infectious songs which had the Mococo staff dancing and singing along whilst a DJ kept the staff dancing the night away until carriages arrived at 2am.

LEAH BASKEYFIELD AND CATHERINE NOLAN

JENNA ADAMS AND KAYLEIGH WHELDON

MO HOOSON AND LEE HOSOON HAVE FUN AT THE MOCOCO PARTY JANUARY 2015

OLLIE HOOSON EMILY LEWIS AND ADAM HOOSON AT THE MOCOCO AWARDS PARTY 2015

DELCIOUS CANAPES SERVED BY THE TEAM AT 1539 RESTAURANT CHESTER RACECOURSE

OYSTERS AT THE MOCOCO PARTY JANUARY 2015

SCHOBOURN HOOSON AND MAUREEN HOOSON

OLIVER HOOSON LEE HOOSON MAUREEN HOOSON AND ADAM HOOSON AT THE MOCOCO AWARDS JAN 2015

RUSSELL HOOSON, JANET DONNELLAN & LEE HOOSON

GIRLBAND EGO PERFORM AT THE MOCOCO AWARDS JANUARY 2015

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MOCOCO MAUREEN HOOSON PRESENTS LIVERPOOL SALES ASSISTANT CATHERINE NOLAN WITH HER THREE AWARDS

MOCOCO STAFF CELEBRATE WINS AT THE SURPRISE AWARDS CEREMONY

EMILY LEWIS AND ADAM HOOSON AT THE MOCOCO PARTY JANUARY 2015

RACHEL MCLELLAN, PATRICK CORNELIUS, CATHERINE NOLAN & CHARLOTTE WILLIAMSON

DAVID CHALLINOR, CATHERINE CURTIS AND DEBBIE ROBERTS

SCHOUBOURN HOOSON, CAROL HOOSON & RUSSELL HOOSON

FEATURE WONGS

A Labour of Love Wongs Jewellers | Chicago Buildings, Units 1, 3 & 4, Whitechapel, Stanley Street, Liverpool, LI 6DS

For more than 35 years Wongs Jewellers' beautiful bespoke jewellery has played a starring role in the love stories of thousands of Liverpudlians. Playing cupid during that time has been master craftsman, Brian Wong, his wife Susan and enterprising son Peter. Simon Grant paid a visit to their bejewelled Whitechapel store to hear all about their labour of love.

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FEATURE WONGS

tepping over the threshold of Wongs' Chicago Buildings address, right in the heart of Whitechapel, is a 'love at first sight' kind of moment. You're greeted warmly, like a long lost member of the family, and ushered into a warmly lit treasure trove of lustrous bespoke jewellery and fashionable watches. It's a spacious, modern and inviting space. Like one of their lovingly crafted engagement rings it's perfectly set, supremely polished and emblematic of hard-earned success. It's a far cry from their first premises that's for sure.

A fA M I LY ' S LOftY AMBItIONS Hailing from Anglo-Chinese parentage, Brian's father left mainland China in the 1940s to join Alfred Holt's Blue Funnel Line as a merchant seaman. He would later meet his future wife to be at one of Liverpool's Chinatown restaurants and the rest, as they say, is history. Brian was born in 1946 and, with a practical father away at sea and a mother who ran a convenience store (as well as caring for his five siblings), perhaps it was no surprise that he would channel his industrious energy into woodwork and then later the jewellery business.

doing a lot of trade work and had customers all over the country – the Isle of Man, down in Cornwall – and it sort of just grew from there.” By 1984, just five years later, the family business moved to Mathew Street to the home of the Beatles. A more prestigious postcode though it was, Wongs was still trading on a sterling reputation rather than a golden location. “It was above the Beatles Shop, so it was quite a good landmark,” says Peter. “Unless you looked up though you probably wouldn't have known we were there. But it was only up one flight of stairs, so a little bit easier to get to!

Having served an apprenticeship, alongside contemporary David M Robinson, at Ben Harris Jewellers in his teens some fifty years ago, Brian and his wife Susan set up their first shop on North John Street in 1979. Auspicious it was not. “e first Wongs shop was in an office block, which I think is now apartments, on the third floor of a bit of a dilapidated old office building!” laughs Wongs Director, and son, Peter. “at's all they could afford to rent at the time. He was Spring 2015

FEATURE WONGS

M A S t e r AND APPreNtICe It was there, in the bosom of Liverpool's musical heritage and another master in his field, that a young Peter would begin his apprenticeship. Much to the disappointment of his high school headmaster, he'd pursued his ingrained love for craft by choosing several practical subjects for his O-levels (that's GCSEs in new money kids!). e foundations were laid for Peter to follow in his father's footsteps and, in 1987, he did just that. “It was a good opportunity for me,” he admits. “As you do when you're 16, it was all the dirty work: the mopping, the sweeping, and making the tea! But starting at the basics, which would be soldering junk rings, it just built from there.” en in 1999 Wongs moved their growing empire to Rainford Square. To their first ground floor store. “It was a little bit tucked away around the back of British Home Stores,” says Peter. “But at least it was a shop front.” Peter had by this point been installed 'on the bench,' in other words crafting jewellery in the workshop, full time. But he soon realised that his passion had evolved to the business side of things. “I just took it upon myself because that's where my dad's heart is; it's on the bench, the craft,” says Peter. “He'd be the first to admit that he loves that side and always will. But I just thought we've got a really good business, a great name, and we need to develop it. I decided that the only way to do it is to say 'I can't be on the bench anymore. I need to be building the business.'

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FEATURE WONGS

e L e vAt e D tO A WhOLe NeW LeveL Peter was instrumental in bringing in state-of-the-art technology, such as Matrix CAD-CAM software, to create unique pieces of jewellery. Not only does this high-tech approach lead to incredibly accurate results, it also gives customers an initial 3D model, and wax mould, to see and feel how their jewellery piece will turn out. Cutting edge laser technology is also used to fuse precious metals to remodel broken jewellery or heirlooms into unique, contemporary pieces.

Wongs Jewellers is located at Chicago Buildings, Units 1, 3 & 4, Whitechapel, Stanley Street, Liverpool, LI 6DS. For more information visit www.wongsjewellers.co.uk, call 0151 236 1552, or email info@wongsjewellers.co.uk. You can also keep up to date with all their latest news, and new products, on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@WongsJewellers).

is willingness to embrace new technology, whilst still retaining the traditional hand-finishing methods and personalised customer service from their knowledgable staﬀ, helped elevate Wongs to a whole new level. e ground floor level of that prestigious Whitechapel address to be precise – home since 2010. “e secret of our success over the years has been, I think, value for money,” says Peter. “We're not the cheapest but we're not the most expensive either. We oﬀer good, sound, value for money. You get what you pay for really. We're here to help people out and I think it's that relationship building, and customer service, that sets us apart. “e majority of the design, the bulk of the work and the completion of the items, are all done in-house. We've maintained that through the years; it's never become less important to us. If you want quality, and a nice environment and experience, then we're the people you come to.” You can see Wongs' superlative range of rings (bridal wear is their particular forte), diamonds, bracelets, necklaces and watches on their lovely new website. But we'd strongly recommend a visit to 'that' Whitechapel store – the jewel in the crown after decades worth of labouring for the love of their craft and the happiness of countless delighted customers. If you're really lucky, you might even see the now semiretired master, Brian, at work in the workshop. What is guaranteed though is a bespoke experience like no other. Now that really is something precious to be treasured.

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THREE QUEENS

The Triple Crown Three Queens, one magnificent city : celebrating Cunard's 175th anniversary Legendary cruise line operator, Cunard, celebrates its 175th anniversary this year with a spectacular Exclusive meeting of its three flagship Queen liners that will focus the eyes of the world once more on the company's spiritual home of Liverpool. Words by Simon Grant.

n an event that promises to rival the Giants Spectacular, in terms of sheer gargantuan scale and stellar crowds, Liverpool's world famous docks are set to claim another world first when our city hosts not one, not two, but all three of Cunard's mighty seafaring Queens. As part of their special 175th anniversary celebrations, Cunard returns to the city that launched its oceanic success. e cruise line aficionados repay the favour three-fold by centring their worldwide fanfare on Liverpool once more, with the pomp

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and pageantry of their 'ree Queens, one magnificent city' event. Since establishing the first transatlantic service in 1840, Cunard's luxury vessels have traversed that route every year since without fail. Now, to mark this phenomenal achievement in grandiose style their three Queens make an historic rendezvous, for the first time anywhere in the world, right here on the Mersey. e Queen Mary 2 will be first to dock at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal, on Sunday 24 May, for an overnight stay. e following

THREE QUEENS

morning, of the Spring Bank Holiday, sister-ships Queen Elizabeth (QE2) and Queen Victoria glide imperiously up the river to complete the spectacular three-piece ensemble. All this takes place within plain sight of the stunning Cunard Building, their headquarters from 1917 to 1967, for a once-in-alifetime event that will make maritime history. “To have the three Cunard Queens back in their spiritual home on our beautiful waterfront will be nothing short of majestic,” said Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson. “is will be an unmissable spectacle which will attract worldwide attention and draw massive crowds. “It is particularly fitting given our plans to bring the Cunard Building back into use as a Cruise Liner Terminal and I am absolutely delighted by this news. Liverpool is once again making its mark as a great maritime destination,” he added.

A full complement of guests will get to enjoy the experience from on board the enormous cruise liners. Queen Elizabeth makes a final stop of a 16night cruise around the Baltic Sea. Queen Mary 2 docks as part of a 10night voyage that calls in to Scotland, Ireland and Guernsey. While the 90,000-ton Queen Victoria – skippered by Cunard's first ever female captain, Inger Klein Olsen – arrives in Liverpool during a six-night cruise that also visits Guernsey.

premium brands like Harris Tweed and Fortnum and Mason.

T H E S HipS

Queen Mary 2 (QM2) is Cunard’s flagship vessel and 'the most magnificent ocean liner ever built' according to their website. Making a transatlantic crossing to or from New York, or embarking on a European adventure from Southampton, on this incredible ship is a holiday like no other. QM2 oﬀers acres of space on board, with an array of state-of-the-art facilities, including a 3D Cinema, planetarium and a spa.

Queen Elizabeth (QE2) is Cunard's newest luxury liner, named in 2010 by Her Majesty the Queen. Recalling the rich heritage of the first Cunard vessel to bear the name, QE2's elegance and modern features have won her countless accolades and confirmed her place as a firm favourite with passengers. Among her many highlights include an award-winning Elemis spa, a Grand Ballroom and a Royal arcade bestowed with a bevy of

Queen Victoria is known for her elegance and graceful splendour. Her unique facilities, including a Winter garden and the stunning three-tier Royal Court eatre, are said to be among the most modern found at sea. at said, she manages to maintain an especially regal ambience evocative of great liners past. Luxurious marbles, woods and rich fabrics exude elegance and ensure that this ship is adored by her crew and passengers alike.

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R E C o R d - bREakiNg CRowdS E x p E C T Ed When the QE2 arrived and made her Merseyside debut in 1990 more than a million spectators turned out to wave her in to dock and the 15 resulting visits made by Cunard Queens have all registered large and enthusiastic crowds. However, the unprecedented spectacle of seeing the three Queens together in all their magnificent glory is sure to attract record-breaking crowd numbers and live long in the memories of everyone lucky enough to witness it. Just to push the boat out even further, so to speak, the flagship Queen Mary 2 will later this year set sail from the Pier Head to recreate the Britannia's inaugural transatlantic voyage from Liverpool to Halifax and Boston. On 4 July (Independence Day) – 175 years to the day that Samuel 38

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Cunard launched his eponymous shipping line – QM2 returns to Liverpool to recreate that feted maiden voyage with a 10-night cruise to Halifax, the capital of Canada's Nova Scotia province, and then on to Boston and finally New York. It marks the first time in more than 50 years that passengers will be able to board a Cunard ship in Liverpool bound for the United States. “Liverpool is the spiritual home of Cunard,” said Cunard Director, Angus Struthers. “Until 1967 the company was based in Liverpool, and it was from Liverpool that Cunard’s first transatlantic crossing was made. “We are therefore delighted to celebrate our 175th anniversary in 2015 with two historic events in Liverpool: a meeting of our fleet of Queens on the Mersey in May 2015 and a repeat of the original transatlantic crossing to Halifax and Boston on 4 July 2015.”

THREE QUEENS Q u i C k faC T S

•Liverpool was Cunard’s headquarters from 1840 to 1967. •e Grade II listed Cunard Building is one of the famous ‘ree Graces’ of the Pier Head. •Eleven million emigrants crossed the Atlantic between 1860 and 1900 and roughly a third of those are thought to have sailed from Liverpool. •Cunard's new mail service proved so popular that by 1847 the Admiralty persuaded Samuel Cunard to double the service – setting sail for Halifax or Boston every Saturday. •Mark Twain once drily observed that “the folks at Cunard wouldn’t appoint Noah himself as captain until he had worked his way up through the ranks.”

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PRAGUE FEATURE

Full of Easter Promise Our guide to the perfect Easter break in Prague

Every year millions of tourists flock to the Czech capital, Prague, to marvel at the cobbled Old Town, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and of course some of the best pilsner beers on earth. With Easter fast approaching, there's no better time to enjoy a Spring visit to Prague and its magical Easter markets.

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PRAGUE FEATURE

Just over a quarter of a century ago the bohemian beauty of Prague was still shrouded from Western eyes by the communist Iron Curtain. Since the Velvet Revolution, in 1989, however the unearthly charms of this grand European capital have been captivating and exhilarating millions of tourists keen to discover exactly what they'd been missing out on for all those years. Stunning whatever the season or weather, the 'City of 100 Spires' is an alluring all-year-round destination. But, in our minds at least, perhaps the most enchanting time to experience this wonderful city is Easter. î &#x201C;e Christian holiday is still very much a venerated occasion on the Czech calendar and a visit at this time of year guarantees a close encounter with the nation's wonderful traditions,

delicacies and entertainment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not to mention the Czech Republic's largest Easter market. Spring 2015

So here's our guide to get the most out of an Easter break to Prague.

PRAGUE FEATURE

E A S T E R MARkET ExTRAvAgAnzA e Prague Easter markets are open every day from 21 March to 12 April at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Here you can wander among the dozens of charming wooden stalls, shopping for handicrafts like crystal and glassware, jewellery, candles, wooden toys, embroidery and traditional puppets and dolls. One recurring sight, that you'll notice everywhere, are brightly coloured hand-painted Easter eggs. You can pick up one of these trinkets from traditionally dressed stallholders, who'll even personalise your very own Czech Easter egg by painting on your name or a special inscription. It's a welcome diversion from the usual chocolate eggs that we're used to we think you'll agree. Foodies will have a field day too, with all the delicious fare on oﬀer. You can watch traditional dishes being made in front of your eyes, before your mouth takes over with a tasting. Look out for giant spit roast hams, moorish pastries (like 'Trdelník' – a hot, sugar coated pastry) and tasty barbecued klobása sausages. Of course, it would be criminal not to wash down these local delicacies with an ice-cold

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Czech beer, like Pilsner Urquell, or a warming cup of hot wine (known as svařené víno or svařák). School folk groups and dancers perform from mid-afternoon every day on a stage at the Old Town Square. Here, children can get involved in Easter themed activities, like painting eggs and making Easter chicks. Or there's a farmyard pen to feed and pet a menagerie of sheep, goats and donkeys.

ThE BEST OF ThE REST Prague's Old Town, or Staré Město, is a fascinating labyrinth of cobbled streets and narrow alleyways to explore. Centred on one of Europe’s most spectacular town squares – the gothic and baroque Old Town Square, or Staroměstské náměstí – this UNESCO World Heritage Site harbours some of the city's most famous attractions. Take a stroll here and you'll be wowed by the sights of the Old Town Hall Tower and its Astronomical Clock; the art nouveau Municipal House concert hall; and the gothic old city gates of the Powder Tower. No Prague itinerary would be complete without a romantic stroll over the Vltava river across the Charles Bridge. is

PRAGUE FEATURE magnificent, 16-arched, bridge was commissioned by its namesake, King Charles IV, in 1357 and completed in the early 15th Century. Spanning more than 600 metres long this majestic thoroughfare has seen it's fair share of history, renovations and footfall over the centuries. Highlights include the colossal towers (the gothic Old Town bridge tower is particularly spectacular) and 30 bohemian sculptures that stand sentry along each side. As this is such a tourist draw card, if you're not a fan of elbowing your way through a sea of fellow sightseers, we'd recommend setting your alarm for an early rise to see the bridge at dawn for the most enjoyable experience. It's also rather pretty by night, when it's uplit arches glow a golden hue. Looming large on the left bank of the river, Prague Castle's architectural hotchpotch of towers, palaces and spires dominate the skyline from all angles. Within what is oﬃcially the world's largest ancient castle (spanning 570m long, 128m wide and a total area bigger than seven football fields) you'll find a fascinating collection of museums, galleries and historic buildings containing some of the country's most important cultural and artistic treasures.

W h E R E T O STAy Aria Hotel, Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa, and Four Seasons Hotel Prague make up TripAdvisor's top three

Traveller's Choice award-winning hotels in Prague. With more than 1,000 'Excellent' ratings from satisfied reviewers on the popular travel advice site, the five star Aria Hotel (www.ariahotel.net) is inspired by music. Each of the 51 luxurious suites and rooms are dedicated to a specific style of music, or particular artist or composer, and its virtuoso fine dining options include art-deco CODA restaurant and the jaw-dropping rooftop views of Terasa U Zlaté Studně. Just a few steps away from Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge, in Prague Lesser Town is the Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa (www.alchymisthotel.com/en). is fairytale five star boutique hotel features exquisitely furnished deluxe rooms, a luxury restaurant and a relaxing wellness spa. Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Hotel Prague (www.fourseasons.com/prague) sits plum in the middle of the Old Town and its 161 guest rooms, including 20 suites, are among Prague’s largest. It boats the modern CottoCrudo Italian restaurant and a health club that specialises in all manner of blissful massage treatments.

hOW TO gET ThERE Jet2 and EasyJet both fly out of Manchester Airport to Ruzyne International Airport. For more information visit www.manchesterairport.co.uk.

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FEATURE easter

top 10 ideas to Keep Your easter Bunnies hoppy liverpool's best family activities this easter Easter is a time to unwind with the family and Liverpool has plenty of attractions to channel the chocolate-fuelled energies of your little ones. So we've compiled a list of the top ten activities for all the family to enjoy this Easter.

1 0 . F e e d their imaginations, as w e l l a s the Farm animals, at C r ox t e th hall Croxteth Hall and Country Park is one of Liverpool's most important heritage sites and one of the finest working country estates in the North West. e park is at the heart of a once great country estate, stretching hundreds of square 46

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miles, that was the ancestral home of the Earls of Sefton. e estate's main attractions include the Historic Hall, the Victorian Walled Garden and a 500-acre country park, including Croxteth Local Nature Reserve. But the highlight has to be Home Farm – a traditional Victorian farmyard that's home to lambs, piglets, chicks and calves – and the daily 3.45pm feeding time. Open 10.30am to 5pm. Entry to Home Farm costs £3.50 per person (£2.70 for senior citizens and kids under three go free). For more information visit www.liverpoolcityhalls.co.uk/croxteth-hall.

FEATURE easter

9. B r i n g out their inner tarzan at a e r i a l extreme Unleash your little monkeys on the biggest High Rope Adventure course of its kind in the country. More than 60 hair-raising obstacles oﬀer the ultimate aerial experience with the lions and tigers of Knowsley Safari Park roaring in the background. e highlights, and they really are high, are a Junior Adventure Course that has 23 obstacles up to four metres high. While the full-size Adventure Course takes it up a gear with 37 obstacles – ranging from five to 14 metres high – including four zip lines and a 13-metre Power Fan Drop. Tickets range from £16 to £26 and family tickets vary from £51.20 to £75.20. Visit www.aerialextreme.co.uk/courses/liverpool for more information and for booking times.

8. r o l l u p For CBeeBies CirCus F u n at t h e eCho arena On ursday 9 April CBeebies Live! returns to the Echo Arena with a brand new circus-themed spectacular, Justin & Friends: Mr Tumble’s Circus. With singing, dancing and fun-filled surprises, get ready for all the thrills and excitement of the big top. Joining Justin Fletcher MBE will be pre-school favourite Mr Tumble, alongside CBeebies characters from Gigglebiz and Something Special. ere are two shows, one at 1.30pm and another at 4.45pm. Ticket prices start from £14.85¬, while family tickets range from £59.40 to £99, and additional fees apply. Visit www.echoarena.com for more information.

7. unleash their Creative sid e s at underwater street For a day of good old fashioned hands-on play look no further than Underwater Street, Liverpool’s discovery centre for children. is unique waterfront venue, for children aged 2-10 years old, features six imaginative play zones, craft tables and ever-changing themed activities. Highlights include a real car to paint, the giant bubble area and Imagination Village – where children can dress up or go to work at the Pizzaz Pizzeria. Grown-ups can either join in or sit back and watch from the on-site cafe. Dress for mess, as they say! Open 10am to 4pm most days. Prices are £10.95 per child (£8.95 for two to three-year-olds and £6.95 for under twos). Adults go free but pay £3.95 to participate. Visit www.underwaterstreet.com for more information.

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FEATURE easter

5. nurture Your Culture vultures with a visit to t h e alBert d oCK

6 . l e t t hem ClimB the walls at t h e C l i mBing hangar and aw e s o me walls Easter holidays can see the kids climbing the walls, literally, with a visit to Liverpool's climbing capital: the Dock Road. e Climbing Hangar caters for all age groups with Saturday and Sunday coaching sessions and grown-ups can also hang around if they like. Just down the road, tucked away in the grand setting of a 150-year-old church, is Awesome Walls. ey hold regular two-hour Little Angels Kids Clubs and parties can be arranged at both venues. Prices vary and inductions are essential. For more information and opening times visit www.theclimbinghangar.com and www.awesomewalls.co.uk/climbing-centres/liverpool.

e Albert Dock was the brainchild of engineer and architect, Jesse Hartley, and was oﬃcially opened by Prince Albert in 1846. In 1988 the 1.25 million square feet site underwent a major facelift to become what is now the Northwest’s most popular free attraction. With world-class museums (such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum and e Beatles Story), galleries (including Tate Liverpool), restaurants and shops tucked amongst the country’s largest group of Grade I listed buildings – it's the ideal retreat for a full day of family fun. Free admission. Visit www.albertdock.com for more information.

4. taKe a drive on the wild side at KnowsleY saFari pa r K Discover an incredible host of creatures at Knowsley Safari Park. From cuddly meerkats, to graceful zebras, marauding

monkeys and acrobatic sea lions. e park is home to around 700 exotic animals from all around the world. Don't miss the sea lion show and birds of prey display and, if you'd rather spare your windscreen wipers, take the Baboon Bus for some close-up encounters. ere's also the fairground amusement rides of the Walkaround Area to keep your little zoo keepers occupied. e Safari Drive is open 10.30am until 3pm. Entry costs £10 or £7.50 for walk in admission. Children under three go free and a family ticket (two adults and two children) costs £40. Visit www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk for more information. 48

spring 2015

FEATURE easter – and downright fun – masterpieces at the Everyman. A Midsummer Night's Dream is a comedy romp through an enchanted Athenian forest, following the fortunes of the hapless Bottom; star-crossed lovers Helena, Lysander, Demetrius and Helena; the fairy king and queen, Oberon and Titania; and the mischievous sprite, Puck. Choose from matinee (1.30pm and 2pm), twilight (5.30pm), and evening (7.30pm) performances. Tickets cost £12 to £20. For more information visit www.everymanplayhouse.com.

1. wow them with world-Cl a s s exhiBits at the world museu m e World Museum has been amazing awestruck children, with its displays of life sciences, earth sciences and human cultures from around the world, since 1853. e trailblazing

3. g o i n s earCh oF Fresh air a n d F u n at seFton parK e magnificent 235-acre, Grade I listed, Sefton Park is the perfect place for all the family to let oﬀ steam. Do step on the grass, for a picnic or a game of frisbee, and explore the Grade II listed Palm House and ‘old Nick’s caves’. Stroll around the boating lake or pay a visit to the bandstand that inspired the Beatles’ Sgt Peppers Lonely Heart Club Band. Or make a beeline for the children’s playground, followed by the central cafe for an energy boosting bite to eat. Free admission. Visit www.liverpool.gov.uk for more information.

2. i n t r o d uCe them to william sh a K e s p e are at the everYman t h e at r e Spark your children's interest in our greatest bard, William Shakespeare, with a rendition of arguably his most accessible museum installed the second public aquarium in the world and the UK's first planetarium outside London. Nowadays, the World Museum's world-class exhibits include more than 40,000 fossils, 1.2 million animal specimens, and a meteorite from Mars. Just perfect for any budding David Attenborough to explore. Open daily from 10am to 5pm. Free admission. Visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk for more information.

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Merchant taylors’ SchOOlS

Roy a l Ap p o i n t e e O p e n s N e w £5 M i l l i o n S c h o o l B u i l d

education. She then met representatives of the school council who took her, and other guests, on a tour around the new facilities.

rs Abila Pointing MBE DL, the High Sheriﬀ of Merseyside, oﬃcially opened a multi-million pound redevelopment at Merchant Taylors’ Primary School, Stanfield. e two year, two-phase project undertaken by Eric Wright Construction, a division of the Eric Wright Group, was completed in December and is the second major build project at Merchant Taylors’ Schools, Liverpool in the last 5 years. It is part of an overall 10 year development strategy, the next stage of which is already being planned.

e multi-phase construction programme, the launch of which was marked by an oﬃcial steel signing ceremony in 2013 by Liverpool Captain Steven Gerrard, is delivering pioneering education facilities for its 360 students, with a whole suite of purpose-built classrooms and specialist teaching rooms, a new dining hall, kitchen, library and fully-equipped medical rooms as well as additional oﬃce space and an impressive new glass fronted reception area.

Guests, including former members of staﬀ, were invited to a special ceremony to mark the oﬃcial opening of the impressive new build which is now fully operational since the beginning of the new school term in January. Mrs Pointing unveiled a plaque and talked the important value of a good

Designed by architects Saunders Bell, the project also included partial demolition of the school’s former prefabricated and somewhat tired buildings. A new horizontal extension links the new facilities to the school’s

Spring 2015

Merchant taylors’ SchOOlS spanning nearly 400 years for providing the best education for life and these state-of-the-art facilities will enhance learning opportunities for generations to come. “e school was committed and engaging throughout the entire project, with the children’s interest in the extensive project enabling them to incorporate the build process as a learning tool. It has probably been one of our most enjoyable projects to work on.”

remaining buildings some of which have also been refurbished. Merchant Taylors’ Primary School, Stanfield has remained fully operational during the build phase and all eﬀorts were made by the Constructors to make sure there was no disruption to the school day. In fact the team at Eric Wright, led by enthusiastic Project Manager Kevin Burgoyne, involved pupils throughout the whole project by incorporating viewing windows into the building area

and introducing aspects such as health & safety and engineering talks into the curriculum, as well as hosting live demonstrations on concrete production. Each pupil signed their name on a numbered brick, which was then used during the construction phase. e infants were also given their own yellow hard hat as a keepsake. John Wilson, managing director of Eric Wright Construction, said: “Merchant Taylors' Schools have a rich history

Spring 2015

Miss Julie Yardley, Head of Merchant Taylors’ Primary School, Stanfield added “I am delighted with this superb new build. Whilst the quality of our teaching at the School has always remained at an exceptionally high level, over the last few years the facilities were

becoming somewhat tired and expensive to maintain. e much needed redevelopment incorporates a new large hall and kitchens, several classrooms, resource rooms, practice rooms and a dedicated library as well as a fully equipped medical room and other bespoke rooms for specialist teaching of IT, art, music and drama. Our Reception pupils are now fully settled into their purpose built early years’ classrooms and outdoor undercover play areas. e staﬀ, pupils and parents are absolutely thrilled with the new facilities. I would like to thank the builders Eric Wright for their expert handling of such a major redevelopment, most of which took place whilst the school was fully operational. We now feel they are very much part of the Merchants’ family.” 51

Larking About

The insider's guide to Lark Lane If you're looking for a little slice of bohemian Liverpool lifestyle, look no further than Lark Lane. this relaxed foodie's paradise, which connects the trendy student area of aigburth with the green lung of Sefton Park, is awash with tempting restaurants, bars, and boutiques. here's our exclusive guide to the best bits. 52

lthough not geographically far from the city centre, Lark Lane might as well be a million miles away in terms of outlook and atmosphere. We're talking independent retailers, hip pubs and bars that dare to be diﬀerent, restaurants packing big flavours as well as countless satisfied diners, and a friendly, beatnik ambience. W h e r e t o eat

e Moon and Pea has been serving delicious, freshly cooked, British cuisine for eight years. is bijou little bistro consistently packs out and little wonder too with

Spring 2015

mouthwatering menus, that burst with fresh produce but won't break the bank. When, not if, you're won over you can even take home some Moon and Pea favourites from their cute little deli. Whether it be a quirky gift hamper, freshly ground coﬀee, sumptuous olives, or delicious homemade cakes they cater for every food lovers whimsy. Meanwhile, take your tastebuds on a world tour at Bistro Noir. If you've got a penchant for paella, lust for linguine, or are clamouring for curry (spicy Jamaican goat anyone?!) then this is your passport to culinary paradise. Finally, as an exotic

Lark LANE

drinks list, including cultured coﬀees, smoothies, craft ales, global wines and innovative cocktails, is as fresh as the décor. Where to ShoP

alternative, Chilli Banana has been serving a taste of ailand to delighted diners since 1996. Owner May Tonggrid's delicate homecooked dishes originate straight out of her native Prachinburi Province in ailand, where as a young girl she would help her mother feed workers on their farm. Her awardwinning fragrant cuisine is the closest you'll get to total authenticity, short of taking a 6,000 mile flight to Bangkok. Where to drInk

Bier specialises in German lagers and cask ales, stocking

in excess of 100 world beers, and also know their way around a cocktail shaker. Pies and football are a match day made in heaven, a fact that hasn't gone unnoticed by Bier with their fine selection of award-winning Pieminister pies and their commitment to show every Liverpool and Everton game on their assorted flatscreen TVs. Milo Lounge manages to sum up everything that is kitsch, and cool, about Lark Lane. Open for a year now, this surprisingly large watering hole's daring interior manages to blend striking lime walls, with retro wallpaper and a blood red snug. e extensive

Head to Lark Lane on the fourth Saturday of every month for the farmers market. You can guarantee that the market traders selling you fruit, vegetables and meat here have also grown or reared their own produce and come from within a 30-mile radius of the city. e not for profit

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Arts Hub 47 is a community cooperative staﬀed by volunteers for artists, designers and crafters. Its cooperative members sell a range of high quality art work, constructed textiles, photography, jewellery, ceramics and woodcrafts. Larks is an old fashioned gift emporium that's the perfect balance of cutting edge contemporary and vintage chic. You'll find gifts, jewellery, accessories, homeware and special oneoﬀ vintage treasures here and at their sister 2000-sq foot warehouse, GASP, around the corner on Lucerne Street.

Lark LANE of course one of the major attractions in these parts. Quite rightly, with it's vast green spaces, ornamental ponds, and the beautiful Grade II listed Palm House. It's the emerald jewel in Liverpool's crown and the perfect spot for a family picnic or a romantic stroll. I n t ereStIng factS

thIngS to do

Head to Lark Lane Community Centre's gymnasium on Sundays from 6-7.30pm for 90-minute yoga classes. Combining Hatha and Kundalini techniques, sessions are suitable for all levels from beginner to expert. Popular circuit boozer, e Albert, hosts free live music with its weekly Friday Music Club and open mic night on Sundays. Marantos Italian restaurant hosts a popular music quiz every ursday at 9pm. While Pros and Coms delivers a healthy dose of comedy, poetry and live music fortnightly on ursdays at Que Pasa Cantina from 8pm. Sefton Park is

In 2007, former Liverpool FC defender, Daniel Agger, reputedly bought two Lark Lane establishments: Que Pasa Cantina and 52 Lark Lane (now Bier). He reportedly sold his stake in both two years later and since returned to boyhood club, Brondby, in Copenhagen – where he co-owns the Center Pub on the Danish capital's

outskirts. In 2008, novelist Arjuna Krishna-Das published his imaginative page-turner, Angels Chic, which was set largely around Lark Lane (as well as India, Tibet and the heavenly planet Chandraloka) in the early 90s. Where better to set a tale of teleportation and inner discovery?! A 23-year-old Adolf Hitler may have stayed in

Spring 2015

Liverpool for six months, prior to the First World War, to dodge conscription to the Austrian army. In an unlikely twist to the myth, there are some that assert that the future Führer lodged briefly at e Albert, which was a hotel as well as a pub in those days. However, the wartime memoirs of Hitler’s sister-in-law, Bridget Dowling, suggest that he may in fact have lived with her and her husband Alois – Hitler's older half-brother – in a rented flat at 102 Upper Stanhope Street, Toxteth. hoW to get there

e nearest train station to Lark Lane is St Michaels, with regular services running from Liverpool Central. When you reach St Michaels, walk up Belgrave Road until you reach Aigburth Road, then cross the road to Lark Lane. ere's also ample parking around Sefton Park, on and around Aigburth Drive – the road encircling the park. Aigburth Road (A561) is the most direct route from the city centre.

ISTANBUL MIRACLE

The Great Escape

The 'Miracle of Istanbul' ten years on It's been ten years since that fateful night in Istanbul. An abject first half, dominated by Milan's vanguard of stellar talent, had left Liverpool's hopes of an historic fifth European Cup success crumbling worse than the barren wasteland surrounding the Ataturk Stadium. There was only one thing for it...Attack! Attack! Attack, attack, attack! Cue one of the most miraculous sporting comebacks of all time.

Spring 2015

ISTANBUL MIRACLE

ix minutes. Six, frantic, pulsating minutes are all it took for Gerrard, Šmicer, Alonso et al to puﬀ out their chests and clawback a three goal deficit. To stop the trophy engraver in his tracks and reduce AC Milan's swaggering march to victory to a dejected limp to collect their runners up medals. e omens looked bleak from the oﬀset when Milan's ageing captain, Paolo Maldini, volleyed home the opener within the first minute. With

Brazilian playmaker, Kaka, pulling the strings in midfield Liverpool shipped two more goals courtesy of Argentinian goal machine, Hernán Crespo. e shrill peep of the halftime whistle must have seemed like blessed relief. A standing count for a shell shocked team, battered and bruised, after a relentless onslaught from a seemingly far superior opponent. Rafa Benitez's half-time team talk had to scoop the confidence of 11 dejected players from oﬀ the floor and, somehow, make them believe again.

Spring 2015

In the dressing room, Benitez was reportedly cool and collected. Milan could be psychologically vulnerable, he reasoned, having snatched defeat from the jaws of victory to hand the Serie A title to arch rivals Juventus. It must have seemed absurdly optimistic. At the very least they could play with freedom now. Have a go, see what happens, restore some pride for the shirt and the hordes of expectant travelling fans. Attack!

ISTANBUL MIRACLE

GERRARd SpEARhEAdS ThE fIGhTbACk Who stepped up to the mark? at perennial big stage hero, Steven Gerrard, of course. With Dietmar Hamann on after halftime to shore up the midfield, Gerrard was off the leash and at his marauding best. His thumping headed goal, early in the second half, provided the perfect sucker punch. e captain urged the fans, and his teammates, to surge on. e two subsequent quick-fire goals – one a low, curling Exocet from Vladimír Šmicer and the other a penalty rebound from Xabi Alonso – had Milan reeling on the ropes. Game on. e unlikeliest extra time in footballing history then followed. It was now Milan with the bloodied nose, peeling themselves off the metaphorical canvas. Fatigue certainly played its part in an end-to-end 30 minutes. Andriy Shevchenko had a gilt-edged chance to put Liverpool to the sword, and end the Herculean battle, in the second period. But Dudek twice saved from point-blank range, instinctively tipping the Ukrainian's second effort over the bar. Both teams steeled themselves for the lottery of penalties. e red half undoubtedly happier at that prospect. Dudek and Shevchenko's duel would continue. Both of these European giant's previous successes in the competition had come at the hands of a shootout. Evoking those halcyon days of Liverpool dominance, Dudek's 'spaghetti legs' homage to Bruce Grobbelaar saw Serginho blaze Milan's first effort over the crossbar. Didi Hamann strode forward, playing through a broken toe, to slot home Liverpool's first: 1-0. Man of the moment, Dudek, then blocked Milan's second from Andrea Pirlo. Djibril Cissé coolly doubled the lead: 2-0. John Dahl Tomasson clawed back a goal for the Rossoneri: 2-1. Milan's Brazilian shot stopper, Dida, then denied John Arne Riise before his fellow countryman, Kaka, levelled proceedings: 2-2. With nerves, and emotions running high, goalscoring hero, Šmicer, then slotted nervelessly to reassert Liverpool's lead: 3-2. Milan now had to score. e one man Carlo Ancelotti and his men would bet the farm on scoring from 12-yards out was surely Andriy Shevchenko, the fifth most prolific European goalscorer of all time. Both sets of fans looked on, nervously poised on the edge of their seats. While some buried heads in scarves, unable to watch. Shevchenko blasted down the middle; a safe choice ordinarily. But Dudek, not for the first time, had the measure of the man. Despite diving to his right, the Pole thrust out a big left hand to thwart the frustrated striker, his dumbfounded Milanese teammates, and their heartbroken supporters.

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ISTANBUL MIRACLE

' O L d b I G E ARS' COMES hOME AMId w I L d C E L EbRATIOnS ey'd done it. Liverpool had achieved the impossible. ey'd overturned the might and dominance of an imperious AC Milan and sent their 'never say die' supporters into dreamland. As Gerrard thrust that famous trophy skywards, engulfed by a storm of red ticker tape and his jubilant teammates, the roar of the red legion of fans at the Ataturk echoed right across the globe and back to Anfield. 'Old Big Ears' was coming home...permanently this time. anks to an ensuing UEFA rule change, Liverpool became the last ever club to earn the right to retain the European Cup in their silverware-laden trophy room. e Liverpool team were given a heroes welcome on their return to the city. e obligatory victory parade, aboard an appropriately scarlet double-decker bus, saw the streets turn red with an estimated one million supporters flocking to catch a glimpse of their triumphant conquerers. More than 300,000 fans were said to have crammed around St George's Hall, the final stop of the ceremonious journey, alone. e joyful celebrations would stretch on late into the night but no amount of alcohol could erase the memories of that fateful night in Istanbul. Pride had been restored, glory was Liverpool's once more. A decade on, to the day, the Echo Arena hosts e Istanbul Reunion Night on 25 May to relive that incredible night. Gain a unique insight into the thoughts and emotions of the players, as they give their commentary on the events that have since become Anfield folklore. For more information visit www.echoarena.com.

Spring 2015

DELAMERE MANOR

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DELAMERE MANOR

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DELAMERE MANOR

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DELAMERE MANOR

Spring 2015

Spring Dining In Liverpool

Liverpool’s eating out scene continues to expand and keeps improving too thanks to a growing number of high quality restaurants. If you like fine Dining, Liverpool has the lot and it seems the choice of top quality restaurants is never ending. We may be waiting for the weather to begin to warm up but Spring is definitely in the air at some of the city’s best restaurants. There is certainly no shortage of culinary gems that will tantalise your taste buds this Spring. Liverpool’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

VIVA BRAzI L

Viva Brazil – the venue where you can dine out and keep fit and healthy too Looking to kick start 2015 with a New Year resolution to be fit and healthy? And ensure you stick to the promise you have made to yourself throughout the year? It may not be as diﬃcult as you initially thought.

e Liverpool restaurant is frequented by Premier League footballers, boxers and sporting personalities who all flock to the venue knowing they can eat out and their meal will only add benefits to their training regime.

e award-winning restaurant chain Viva Brazil can help you.

Andy Aldrich, owner, said: “We pride ourselves in only using the freshest ingredients.

At Viva Brazil you can dine out guilt free knowing you will not pile on the pounds as all of their produce is fresh and being healthy is at the heart of everything Viva creates.

“We do have a large number of celebrities, particularly sporting celebs who dine with us as they know they can eat out guilt free because the food we serve is healthy, primarily protein and very little carbohydrates.

A diet which is rich in protein is proven to burn more calories and leave you feeling fuller for longer – so look no further than Viva Brazil where you can eat as much meat as you like and enjoy the freshest and most exciting salads and - have no need to feel guilty ! With restaurants in Castle Street, Liverpool, Cardiﬀ and Glasgow - and later this year in Birmingham too – now is your chance to become a part of the Viva family and sample the restaurant’s fantastic authentic dishes. 66

Spring 2015

“Viva Brazil is the perfect restaurant choice for those people who still want to dine out in a fantastic atmosphere but keep healthy too. ey can watch the meats being cooked on the open grill infront of them, choose what they would like to try and accompany these with a range of salads from our fresh salad island.” So don’t miss out on dining out – head to Viva Brazil! Further details are available from: www.vivabrazilrestaurants.com

RESTAURANT cLASSIfIeDS

BLAkeS ReSTAuRAnT

BRownS BAR & BRASSeRIe

pAnoRAmIc 34

Hard Days Night Hotel , North John Street, Liverpool, L2 6RR Tel: 0151 243 2121 www.harddaysnighthotel.com

43a Paradise Street Liverpool L1 3DN Tel : 0151 709 1693 www.browns-restaurants.co.uk

West Tower, 34th Floor 10 Brook Street Liverpool L3 9PJ Tel : 0151 236 5534 www.panoramic34.com

Blakes Restaurant is open to residents and non-residents alike and creates the perfect setting for a romantic dinner for 2 or parties of up to 22 guests right in the centre of Liverpool. Using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients, you will enjoy classic British cuisine at it’s best whilst surrounded by iconic memorabilia and Beatles artwork. Named after Sir Peter Blake who created the artwork for the famous Sgt Pepper album, dining at Blakes will be an experience to remember combining superb cuisine and that famous musical history. Blakes Restaurant is open Tuesday to Friday for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, all day Saturday and opens for breakfast only on Sundays and Mondays.

For more than forty years Browns has been the essence of quality and excellence, with a reputation for classic food, well delivered in a stylish environment and are renowned for providing the perfect place to meet, eat and drink in a welcoming and unobtrusive atmosphere. ey have continued this tradition with Browns in Liverpool which is located superbly within Liverpool ONE shopping centre. With classic dishes alongside more continental flavours, the food is skilfully prepared and exquisitely executed to provide quality without ever being arrogant or fussy. It goes without saying that only the freshest and finest ingredients are used within this stylish establishment.

Set 300 feet above sea level on the 34th floor of the West Tower, Panoramic 34 is one of the UK’s highest restaurants. is celebrated fine dining restaurant is encapsulated by ceiling to floor windows offering breath-taking views of the magnificent Liverpool skyline. e ambience, service and food can only be described as truly 5 star. ey offer tasting menus, a la carte menus, dinner menus, and lunch menus. e cuisine is superb and the trained staff are friendly and knowledgeable. e Panoramic 34 penthouse dining suite is the perfect place to celebrate any special occasion or to host a business conference or lunch for your corporate clients. Dining with a view doesn’t get better than this.

SAppoRo TeppAnyAkI

VIVA BRAzIL

AmAnzI

134 Duke Street East Village Liverpool L1 5AG Tel : 0151 705 3005 www.sapporo.co.uk

36 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 0NR Tel : 0151 236 8080 www.vivabrazilrestaurants.com

18 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 8TD Tel : 0151 227 5557 www.amanzirestaurants.com

Sapporo Teppanyaki is a true dining experience. If ever there was a way to enjoy a meal then this is it. Whilst seated at your table the magnificent show chefs will entertain you with the theatre of Teppanyaki style cooking and will create mouth-watering dishes to ensure a night that you will never forget. Watch the chefs juggle with eggs, slice food in mid-air and show oﬀ their knife throwing expertise. is really is the perfect venue for any celebration or corporate entertaining as you watch juicy steaks or the freshest seafood and so much more being cooked right before your eyes.

Liverpool’s award winning Brazilian Restaurant ‘Viva Brazil’ was re-opened last year to a fanfare of music, dance, new dishes and cocktails after major investment. A feature bar with a range of new cocktails and a wine wall featuring the best wines from across the world all forms part of the new look restaurant. Viva also expanded its menu with more fish dishes and an additional snack menu to serve the new larger bar area. Viva Brazil consistently ensures they bring to all of their customers the highest standards and the very best in Brazilian cuisine seven days a week.

Following a multi-million pound refurbishment of former celebrity haunt Newz Bar, Amanzi, a stunning new restaurant and nightspot has taken city centre dining to a whole new level. e fabulous menu features food sourced from the crème de la crème of local suppliers and is sure to appeal to the palette of even the most selective of diners. Indulge yourself with a gourmand feast whilst taking in the most stunning décor that has been created for this venue’s second coming. For a decadent taste of luxury, you need look no further than Amanzi, the new jewel in the crown of elite dining in Liverpool.

Spring 2015

BAR cLASSIfIeDS

pALm SugAR Lounge BAR

BLue BAR AnD gRILL

pAn Am BAR AnD ReSTAuRAnT

5 -6 Kenyon Steps Liverpool One Liverpool L1 3DF Tel: 0151 707 6654 www.palmsugarlounge.com

17 Edward Pavilion The Albert Dock Liverpool L3 4AE Tel: 0151 702 5831 www.bluebarliverpool.co.uk

Palm Sugar is located in the Heart of Liverpool One and is the perfect location to unwind during a hectic shopping trip or for an evening of celebration. is award winning bar has been voted best in Liverpool and is a mixture of the Far East with a New York cocktail lounge atmosphere. Take a seat in this most luxurious of venues and relax whilst the friendly cocktail waiters take care of your every need. On a busy night, Palm Sugar really is the place to be and be seen. Perfect for a top notch night out with friends or why not enjoy the Tapas menu which is served from midday every day until 10pm.

Blue Bar & Grill is without question one of Liverpool’s most celebrated venues and benefits from a stunning location at the world famous Albert Dock. Blue incorporates a café bar,a restaurant and an exterior terrace which overlooks Liverpool’s Waterfront and is definitely one of the best alfresco spots the city has to oﬀer. Blue’s impressive grill restaurant serves freshly prepared quality food, exemplified by a stunning menu with an exciting range of dishes. If you are looking for a night out Blue is open until late and features DJ entertainment and has a further bar area available for private function hire for up to 600 people.

A contemporary bar and restaurant located in the Grade 1 listed Britannia Pavilion on the Albert Dock with fabulous views towards Liverpool's ree Graces and has won the coveted Taste of Merseyside Accreditation. Situated within the former Granada Studios building which used to host Richard and Judy’s is Morning programme Panam Bar and Restaurant serves fantastic food in beautiful salubrious surroundings and is perfect for a quality night out or for corporate or private functions. You can opt for a more chilled out evening in one of the intimate booths or you can hit the dance floor with some of the regular live entertainment. One of the city’s best bars and restaurants.

cIRco BAR & ReSTAuRAnT

BumpeR

pLAygRounD

Britannia House, Albert Dock Liverpool L3 4AD Tel : 0151 709 0470 www.circoliverpool.com

14 -18 Hardman Street Liverpool L1 9AX Tel : 0151 707 9902 www.bumperliverpool.co.uk

3 Thomas Steers Way Liverpool L1 8LW Tel : 07956 374876 www.playgroundliverpool.com

Circo Bar is a circus themed bar and restaurant and is insanely creative and unique. is eccentric venue is located at the Albert Dock and has a breathtaking bar filled with entertainment, an appetizing ALa-Carte restaurant and of course an extrodinary Freakshow which Circo claims will grab your attention at every level. In the day Circo is a lovely place to catch up with friends or take the family to lunch. However as night falls the bar really comes to life, with circus entertainers doing inhouse performances such as Firebreathers, acrobats, stilt walkers and much more. Combined with an exciting atmosphere, fabulous drinks and great service this bold bar and restaurant is unmissable.

Bumper bar oﬀers live music mainly of the indie genre and rock classics and the atmosphere of the club is very relaxed and fun. It has its own DJ and a great mix of beverages, especially cocktails. It also has a great drinks menu including fantastic ranges of beers and ciders. is hotspot is ideal for students as its wellpriced, as it’s well priced with great music although anyone can enjoy a superb night out at Bumper. As well as Saturday, Tuesday and ursday are very busy days for the club as it often hosts special events which you can find on their website. We say if you want a fun night out but club music isn’t really your thing then get down to Bumper for a fantastic and unforgettable night.

If you’re over 21 and on the hunt for a classy night out then head to Playground. is nightclub is very trendy, it has stunning decor and luxurious facilities. Dress to impress for a night out at the Playground. Open until 4am the Playground strives to host a fabulous night out with plenty of drink and house music. Celebrities often attend and it has numerous big events on. ere are no claims that it will be the cheapest night out in the city but it is sure to be one of the best. You may want to book a table in advance so you are not dissapointed. e Playground is definitely worth checking out!

Spring 2015

Unit 22 Britania Pavilion Albert Dock Liverpool L3 4AD Tel.: 0151 702 5831 www.panambarliverpool.co.uk

FEATURE AMANZI

Amanzi makes a splash Amanzi | 18 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 8TD

Making a splash among Liverpool's bar and restaurant scene is the stunning new contemporary restaurant, Amanzi. Following a multi-million pound refurbishment of former celebrity haunt, Newz Bar, this elegant new nightspot has not only resuscitated 70

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this iconic New Zealand house venue, but has taken luxury city centre dining to a whole new stratosphere. Words by Simon Grant.

FEATURE AMA NZI

ow. W-o-w. What a transformation. Scarcely had the city's A-listers and high rollers had time to mourn the demise of one of the city's best loved bars, when the launch of Amanzi royally relegated such sentiments to yesterday's Newz. î &#x201C;e venue's phoenix from the flames rebirth is a triumph of style and substance. Needless to say, we were excited to get an Exclusive first taste of Liverpool's new heavyweight dining champion elect. Amanzi means 'water' in Zulu, and you'll certainly want to take a moment to pore over all the exquisite details laid before you. î &#x201C;e first of which worth celebrating is the fact that the owners chose Liverpool as their premier destination to launch their first ever Amanzi restaurant. Bearing in mind that sister venues are due to pop up in Dubai, Los Angeles and Las Vegas that's no small compliment to our fair city.

Spring 2015

FEATURE AMANZI

A culINAry corNucop IA Amanzi’s stellar menu features food sourced from the crème de la crème of local suppliers. ink dry aged beef from British native herds and a cheese board festooned with regional favourites. Plus, there are more exotic tempters like pacific oysters and alaskan crab legs to titillate your tastebuds. e January menu was a culinary cornucopia filled with intent that, like much of Amanzi, was designed to make a bold statement. What makes Amanzi's luxurious flavours even more palatable, and surprising perhaps, is the competitive pricing. An appetiser of Boscaiola, Kalamata olives, caperberries and cornichons will leave you change for a fiver at £3.95 for example. While delicate starters – such as Cornish assured oysters, served with a rice wine vinaigrette, soy pearls and orange tobiko or the Asian spiced carpaccio of beef, with tempura samphire and soya vinaigrette – ranged from as little as £6 through to £12 for the premium seafood dishes. It's an enticing formula that extends to the dynamic mains. e lip smacking linguini of brown shrimp, accompanied by soft shell crab, scampi oil, spring onions and lime sounded was a winner before a closer inspection of the menu revealed a modest price tag of £16.50. en there was the pan seared whole lemon sole, the two bone wild pig chop and the whole spatchcock chicken vying for attention. All of which could be yours, at a snip, for £20 or less. e pièce de résistance though, if you're a red-blooded carnivore (bear with us veggie lovers, you're attentively – and imaginatively – catered for with sumptuous oﬀerings like butternut squash and blue cheese risotto cake), are those aforementioned 35-day aged beef cuts. Succulent ribeye, sirloin and fillet options come burnished with charred red spring onions, tiger cherry tomatoes, tenderstem broccoli and skinny fries. With a price range of £24 to £36 that's a whole lot of iron for comparatively not much silver. Inventive desserts bring proceedings to a suitably decadent conclusion. Who could resist the sticky toﬀee pudding sundae, classic lemon tart and blueberry crème fraiche, or – wait for it – the chocolate vanilla cheesecake bombe, with hazelnut crumb and hot chocolate sauce? Not us that's for sure. Any one of those sticky, scrumptious treats is likely to send us into a sugar-induced revelry.

Spring 2015

FEATURE AMA NZI

I r r e S I S t I b le c o c k tA I l of decAdeNce e cocktail menu has also been engineered to whisk you to your happy place. Shut your eyes, take a sip, and imagine you're basking in an impossibly glamorous paradisical idyll. Oh wait, you already are: open up! e talented bar team at Amanzi come armed with first class degrees in mixology, and are only too happy to deliver their individual twist on some all-time cocktail classics. As well as conjuring up their own suave creations. Love your liqueurs? Sidle up to the bar and order in a refreshing Maya Mash (£7.50) made with Disaronno Amaretto, Cherry Marnier, vanilla syrup and cranberry juice. Prefer something a touch stronger? How about a familiar formula, given the Amanzi treatment, with the Palm Island Iced Tea (£8.50)? is plucky little number packs a classy punch with Absolut Citron Vodka, Koko Kanu (a subtle blend of crystal clear Jamaican rum with coconut), Giffard Apricot Brandy, El Jimador Reposado Tequila, Beefeater Gin, lime juice, Giffard Blue Curacao, sugar syrup and Amanzi Lemonade promising to spice up any evening's encounters. Or how about an Amanzi Bellini? What's different about that we hear you cry? Strawberry, check. Blackberry or peach, check. Prosecco, of course. Caviar pearls? at's right. We're talking one formidably opulent concoction here. With a whole raft of other signature cocktail party pieces also catering for the whisky, vodka, rum, gin, tequila – and ice cream (oh yes!) –crowd there really is a dizzying array to sample. As you'd expect, Amanzi doesn't scrimp on premium beers and spirits either. Old faithfuls, like Heineken and Peroni, stand shoulder to shoulder with international upstarts like Mexican

pilsner, Pacifico; Icelandic craft ale, Einstok; Pabst Blue Ribbon from the US; and Old Mout ciders from New Zealand. While Chivas Regal whisky, Grey Goose vodka and Patrón tequila head up a blockbuster cast of spirits. Of course, if you're more of a champagne quaﬀer you're ably assisted in the fizz department by Messrs Dom Pérignon, Louis Roederer Cristal and Besserat de Bellefon among others.

quite simply breathtaking. ere's a sense of the evangelical, apt for this venue's second coming, in the ethereal creams of the vaulted ceilings and the stalactite-esque hanging light fixtures. e wood clad walls, pine flooring and organic mirrors bring a Scandi chicness and warmth to proceedings. While the design furniture – and sleek up-lit bar on the upper mezzanine level – are achingly cool in their minimalism.

Amanzi have even helpfully designed an inspirational 'cocktail journey' that maps out the perfect drink to suit, whatever time of day you choose to perch at the bar. Non-alcoholic coolers, coladas and pink lemonade should also keep the driver happy, through to their actual journey home, if not entirely stave oﬀ jealousy while you savour your latest spectacular tipple. So 'oogy wawa' to you! at's the wonderfully sing-song translation for 'cheers' in Zulu, we're reliably informed.

So the big news is that for a decadent taste of luxury, that will dazzle even the most jaded socialite, you need look no further. Arise Amanzi, the Zulu king of Liverpool's elite restaurant and bar empire.

Oh, and did we mention the décor? Well, prepare yourself for a visual, as well as a gourmand, feast because it's

Spring 2015

Amanzi can be found at 18 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 8TD. For more information visit www.amanzirestaurants.com, call 0151 227 5557, or email info@amanzirestaurants.com. Keep up to date

FLyiNG butler

come fly With Me !

Meet Georgina, the world's first flying butler

outhport can boast the world's first flying butler – and what's more the high-flyer is a woman.

Georgina Henderson, 28, has just taken to the skies on the inaugural flight of Etihad Airways new Airbus A380 which features a three-room cabin where she caters for every whim of her guest. e cost of the one way trip from London to Abu Dhabi? A cool £12,500. Her work-place, called 'e Penthouse in the Sky' is the very height of luxury. e living room, double bedroom and

en-suite shower room are fitted out with the very best that money can buy. e leather used for the furnishing in the living room is the same used in Ferrari cars. But the job is a far cry from that of a Downton Abbey butler. Georgina's work starts long before her mega-rich guests (they are not 'passengers' – they are 'guests') come aboard. She needs to find out all about them – what sort of food and drink they like, what their interests are, what sort of flowers they would like in the cabin, if they are travelling for business or pleasure, would they like to be pampered or left

Spring 2015

to relax in peace? She even needs to know if they are left or right handed so she can place their favourite drink on their correct side. A top chef is at hand to supply anything from the first class menu. And if an item isn't on the menu it can certainly be found. Would her guest like a little caviar with their afternoon tea? No problem. Or maybe a glass of the finest champagne instead of tea? Of course. Georgina, from Southport, has to ensure she looks and sounds just right for the part. Decked out immaculately

FLyiNG butler

in white gloves and tails she wears three shades of eye shadow and red lipstick on duty and has a regular French manicure. She must use the correct way of speaking to her guests – 'may I?' never ''can I?' and 'splendid!' and never, ever 'OK!'

for Etihad, one of the world's most exclusive airlines, for four years. After gaining a degree in broadcast journalism at Leeds University she joined BBC Radio Merseyside but she had the travel bug and took to the skies.

All these skills and many, many more were picked during an intense training period at the University of West London followed by sessions under the watchful eye of Sean Davoren, head butler of London's Savoy Hotel. ese are the people who train top staﬀ for Buckingham Palace.

She said: “When I was a student I worked in restaurants at the weekend to earn money. I never dreamt that a few years later I would become the world's first in-flight butler.

“It was an enormous personal privilege when Etihad Airways told me I was to work on its first super jumbo flight and I think it’s terrific that a role such as a butler, which in years gone by has been perceived as a man's job, can be done just as eﬃciently by a woman. “And with the first flight landing in London it was a huge honour as a Merseysider to fly the flag for Britain.”

After Georgina had qualified as the world's first female flying butler Mr Davoren said: “She has been an absolute joy to work with and she now possesses the skills required, blending the discretion of a traditional English butler with the eﬃciency of a 21st century personal assistant.” Before being selected as one of 13 would-be butlers Georgina had worked

Spring 2015

Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E Mail : info@lloydfp.co.uk

Tel : 01704 443107

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

david lloyd Spring 2015

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PENSIONS JIM, BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT! t Up You Must Se It's : e A Schem The Law

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Pension rules have changed. All employers are now legally required to set up and enrol certain staff into a pension scheme and make contributions. You will also have to tell your staff about the scheme you enrol them in and allow other staff to join if they request to do so. We Can help and now is the time to act. Liv Pr e Lo osp n er g An d Wi Pe t ns ion h A

We offer plain English solutions to meet your requirements including : Conducting an initial assessment Workforce assessment Review of any existing scheme

s Up To Beam U (Or Just Discuss Call)

Modelling report e : Th ons i r s e i n Pe ont l Fr a n i F

To get some SPACE between you and the pensions regulator, speak to our specialist auto enrolment team on 01704 443107. Lloyd & Co. Financial Planning Ltd, 1st Floor Heritage House, 9b Hoghton Street, Southport, PR9 0TE Lloyd & Co. Financial Planning Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 548625

To boldly Auto Enrol where no one has Auto Enrolled before.

FLOWER SHOW

Southport Flower Show 2015 An Oriental flavour for this year’s show

A taste of China comes to Southport this summer as the annual flower show takes on an Oriental theme. Events, entertainment, food and floral marquees will all be inspired by Chinese culture and design. e show which features the very best in family entertainment, food and garden design will be running from the 20-23rd August. ere will be a host of celebrities in attendance at this year's show from celebrity chefs, to gardening experts and TV stars. In addition to show gardens, and over a million blooms on display, there will be more than 350 independent stalls and shops, live music and entertainment. e show also boasts the North West Food Festival which will feature more than 60 gourmet producers who oﬀer the opportunity to sample and buy produce in the food marquee. ere is also a full working kitchen where celebrity chefs will be demonstrating their skills and signature dishes. Ladies day, sponsored by Renacres Hospital, will return on Friday 21st August and promises an exciting day of fun and entertainment. It will start with a sparkling reception at 11am, followed by a 2 course lunch. Enjoy entry into the show, fashion shows by e Wardrobe Boutique Southport, guest appearances, best dressed lady competition and much more. Tickets are priced just £50 each and places are limited. Book now. To book tickets visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk, or call us : 01704 547147. Children under the age of 16 go in for free. For Liverpool Exclusive readers we have advance day tickets at only £15 if purchased by the end of June, compared to the Standard Gate Price of £22.50. Use code LEX. ere is a £1 handling fee on telephone orders. www.southportflowershow.co.uk 80

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PRAGUE

A P E RFECT INVESTMENT O P P O RTUNITY All Sounds Too good To be True? : is is a Genuine opportunity for anyone to make a fantastic property Investment. Call us for more information.

• 100% mortgages (circa 2.4%) • No UK credit checks • Only Criteria is to show 30,000czk (£850) per month into your UK Bank Account

Prague is a must buy location for any overseas property investor. e combination of low risk, good finance, good medium growth prospects and good rents make it an all-round winner.

• Good Rental Market : All Property Management taken care of. • No Hassle Purchase Process • The Perfect Buy to Let Investment in a Truly Beautiful EU Capital City • Market prices beginning to rise again

e property market in the Czech Republic remains one of the strongest in Central and Eastern Europe, driven by a strong economy, rising wages and good mortgage financing

10 years ago Prague became an investor paradise as the property boom travelled across to Eastern Europe. However as investors got their fingers burned in risky investments in various countries, those who chose to invest in Prague realised that they had chosen their location wisely. e combination of low risk, excellent growth and it is fair to say the strong performance of the Czech Koruna meant that almost everybody who invested in this beautiful city came through the crisis that engulfed the world unscathed.

property (far below market value) with minimal and in most cases zero cash outlay.(100% mortgages are available). Investor confidence has returned and Prague remains one of the safest locations in which to invest overseas and combined with the deals we have agreed with the banks there is probably no opportunity available like this anywhere.

We are delighted to say that ‘the feel good factor’ has returned and we are able to oﬀer you incredible opportunities to benefit from instant positive equity

CONTACT US TODAY European Property Investments Heritage House, 9b Hoghton Street Southport, PR9 0TE Tel : 01704 516564 Mobile : 07809 226112 E Mail : info@europeanpropertyinvestments.co.uk Website : www.europeanpropertyinvestments.co.uk

GRAEME SHARP

Sharp Shooter

A n i n t e r v i e w w i t h E ve rton legend, Graeme Sharp Graeme Sharp is arguably one of Everton's greatest players ever. In a decorated 11year career at Goodison Park, the Glaswegian striker's record post-war tally of 159 goals is bettered only by the late, great Dixie Dean. A phenomenal strike rate, set amongst a 1980s era of total dominance for Liverpool's two all-

conquering clubs, that secured a European Cup Winners' Cup, two league titles and an FA Cup for the Blues. We caught up with the former Scotland international for an Exclusive chat about Merseyside derbies, his wonder goal of '84, catching the bus to training, and the demolition of Bayern Munich. Words by Simon Grant.

In 2004, Graeme Sharp was inducted in to Everton fans' 'Greatest Ever Team', as part of the Club's 125-year anniversary, and is credited by many as the scorer of the finest derby goal of all time (sorry Jags!). A sublime dipping volley that broke a 14-year losing streak at Anfield and catalysed Everton's eighth league title win. In this Exclusive interview, the long-serving Everton Club Ambassador and football pundit talks us through these, and many other, highlights of his Toffees career. 86

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GRAEME SHARP

Hi Graeme. at goal in the Merseyside Derby in 1984 is still regarded as one of the best derby goals ever. Is that your most memorable goal? ere's a few that stick out but obviously that one meant so much. Going over there, and winning 1-0, was a massive boost for us because it showed that we could compete. e most important thing was that we won and we went on to win the league because that gave us the belief. When the ball came, I managed to get a decent touch with my left foot, just to knock it to the side of Mark Lawrenson. e ball sat up nice and I thought 'why not?' I wish I had a pound for everybody who either reminisced about it, or asked me about it, or showed me a video because I'd be a very rich man!

What was it like playing in that 1980s era of Liverpudlian footballing dominance? It was fabulous. We knew it was either us or them. It was a really enjoyable time for the city as well. For both sets of supporters to be able to go down to Wembley every other year was a fantastic time. Liverpool was very similar to Glasgow in that there was the ship building, and it was falling on its heels a little bit, so at that time anything that could give hope and lift the area was brilliant for both of us. It was something special and it made everybody sit up and take notice and be a bit envious.

Spring 2015

GRAEME SHARP

Can you describe what it's like playing in a Merseyside derby? Coming from Glasgow, I used to watch Rangers and Celtic, and obviously that was a derby for diﬀerent reasons – religious reasons – and it was really hostile. Walking down the tunnel though and to be hit with the noise. Wow! You couldn't hear your teammates shouting for the first five or six minutes. In those days, unlike now, you could tackle. e likes of (Graeme) Souness was in there, who could leave their foot in. So you knew it was a battle. Obviously, if you lost you went straight home. Don't dare be seen out because it would be more than your life's worth living. Which of your achievements do you look back on with the most pride? It's really diﬃcult. I think if you asked any player, it's probably the first trophy you win. e first trophy that we won was the FA Cup in '84 and I managed to score. Growing up in Glasgow, we would watch the FA Cup final and it was a fantastic occasion. Far better than the Scottish Cup final. So to actually get there in '84, and to win it and score, was fantastic. My family was down to watch me as well. So it was a great pleasure, and an honour, for them to see me lifting the FA Cup.

Spring 2015

What was the best match you ever played in? I would have to say, and I'm probably talking for a lot of people here, Bayern Munich in the semi-final of the European Cup Winners Cup. at was an incredible experience. We had a great 0-0 result over there with a patched up team. We came back here, went a goal down, got back in to the game, and went on to win 3-1. Goodison was rocking! ey had a good team (that included Sören Lerby, Lothar Matthäus and Michael Rummenigge) but once we went ahead, and I'm not saying they threw in the towel, with the backing of the supporters there was only ever going to be one winner.

GRAEME SHARP Tell us about your ambassadorial role, alongside fellow explayers Ian Snodin and Graham Stuart. I've been doing this for the last 14 years. On match day, we look after our match sponsors, box sponsors and corporate mascots. en we mingle in the boxes. With Everton having so much work in the community now, we support that as much as possible as well. It's ten years since the (Boxing Day) tsunami, so Chang set up a village in ailand to rehouse some people. Ian and myself are going over there to give a few coaching clinics. It's a very varied role and I think bringing the other two boys on board now just shows how much the club has grown. Not just on the field but off it too, in terms of the community projects we do. I think when you've been associated with a club for so long, as a player of 11 years, it was always something really close to my heart. I had the opportunity to move back up to Scotland, my wife's from Glasgow. But life was here, my kids were born here, and there was no reason to move. When I had the opportunity to come back as liaison officer I jumped at it because this was a big, big part of my life. For all the latest Everton news, fixtures, tickets, player interviews and merchandise visit www.evertonfc.com. If you would like to sponsor a Game at Goodison Park this season please visit evertonfc.com/optimum for details. What do you miss most about playing? People say, do you miss it? Yes, of course I miss it. Is it better now? No, I don't think it is. Because I think we had more of a life. Some of the things we got away with off the field, you couldn't get away with them nowadays. Especially with social media, cameras, and everything else. I feel sorry for the players at times. Yes, they get paid well, but sometimes they don't have their own life. When I first moved here, I never drove. I lived in Southport and I'd just jump on the train, get off at Bootle, and jump in a taxi. Or I'd get the bus from West Derby in to town. I can't see them doing that now!

Spring 2015

An Exclusive guide to golf, travel & leisure GolfandTravelBreaks.com

he success of both Southport and Liverpool Exclusive Magazines has seen a rise in demand of businesses wishing to be featured, seeing a growth in our content. Such growth means we are delighted to announce a new section in all of our publications dedicated to Golf, Travel and Leisure. e three very often intertwine so we feel sure there will be something of interest to all our readers. is will ultimately benefit tourism coming into the area and will have the opposite eﬀect of enlightening our readers to a few hidden gems worth visiting for a short break or holiday.

buy an overseas property whether a holiday home or a place to enjoy retirement. We hope to give you an insight into the do’s and don’ts of buying that dream home in Spain. We will talk to Estate Agents, Developers, Mortgage Lenders and Lawyers, with a view to giving you the very best advice when it is time to consider that property in the sun. Over the coming issues we will feature a selection of properties, apartments and townhouses to private villas, beach side or rural to meet everyone’s budget.

ere will be features on selected Golf Courses both locally and beyond our area and it is our intention to arrange a number of regional golf days at these courses during next year. As part of our on-going golf initiative we will be arranging Golfing Breaks to Spain's Costa del Sol and Portugal's Algarve as both areas oﬀer a superb golfing experience. Details of all of the proposed events and tournaments will be announced in future Exclusive publications and can also be found on our website : www.golfandtravelbreaks.com With the assistance of industry experts we will be giving advice on travel within the UK and abroad with a special emphasis on Spain's Costa del Sol and Portugal’s Algarve. We will also be visiting locations, viewing hotels and sampling restaurants, hoping our experiences will help you when choosing your next holiday or short break. Within future editions our travel section will be bringing you special oﬀers on golf holidays, family vacations and those much needed short breaks that help re-charge the batteries. With a further focus on Spain's Costa del Sol we will be looking into the property market and the question ; Is this a good time to buy? Spain still remains the number one choice for Brits wishing to

A feature we are all very much looking forward to will be the tour of the UK in an Auto-Trail Apache 6340 Motorhome. Some wellknown companies have been involved in making life on the road as enjoyable, safe and comfortable as possible and we will be looking at their installations in detail throughout 2015. If the feature gives you a desire to own a motorhome or simply hire one for a holiday we will be on hand to give you advice and guidance. e last year has been very exciting for Exclusive Magazines and we sincerely hope the new features will only serve to enhance our existing publications and also Manchester Exclusive which is on track to be launched in spring of 2015.

Spring 2015

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 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. 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. 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. 94

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ConTaCT DeTailS HEskEtH Golf Club

Cockle Dicks Lane Southport PR9 9QQ sECrEtAry ’s offiCE

Tel : 01704 536897 (Ext 2) E Mail : secretary@heskethgolfclub.co.uk www.heskethgolfclub.co.uk

Course details : Par : 72 White : 6703 Yards Yellow : 6239 Yards Red : 5639 Yards (Par 74)

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.

ConTaCT DeTailS fulwood HAll lAnE,

Preston, Lancashire, PR2 8DD sECrEtAry ’s offiCE

E Mail : secretary@prestongolfclub.com Telephone : 01772 700011 www.prestongolfclub.com

Course details : Par : 71 White : 6278 Yards Yellow : 5973 Yards Red : 5155 Yards

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

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lancaster Golf Club

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. 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. Membership Full Membership is currently available. 96

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ConTaCT DeTailS lAnCAstEr Golf Club

Ashton Hall Ashton-with-stodday Lancaster Lancashire LA2 OAJ Telephone : 01524 751247 E Mail : enquiries@lancastergc.co.uk www.lancastergc.co.uk Course Details : Par : 71 White : 6512 Yards Yellow : 6269 Yards Red : 5791 Yards

scott Astin - Golf Professional

Looking out across a currently frosty golf course that, despite the cold, is still full of enthusiastic golfers shows me that golf has something special in that it draws people in to it – even in the most challenging of weathers. I spend my working days immersed in the world of golf. For the past 11 years I have been Head PGA Professional at Hesketh Golf Club. It’s the oldest club in the Southport area which is often described as England’s golf coast. It boasts a great number of fantastic courses. Each day I spend doing something I love, teaching people to play golf. It’s true that golf is one of the most frustrating, technical, irritating, addictive sports to play yet it has that special something that once you start you only want to play more and more. Two time Masters winner, Bubba Watson makes it sound so easy, “It’s about hitting the ball in the centre of the club face and hitting it hard”. However, the great Arnold Palmer puts a diﬀerent spin on things, “Golf is deceptively simple, yet endlessly complicated”.

Without wishing to sound like a cliché it’s perfectly true that you’re never too old to take up golf. It genuinely is a sport for all ages, from young children to the more elderly players. Here, at Hesketh, I have an indoor teaching facility which is equipped with the latest state of the art video analysis technology using GC2 shot simulation and GASPLab 4. In simple terms, it’s the same as they use on Sky Sports! e technology allows you to grasp a greater understanding of how a golf swing works and what you need to do to get that little white ball to go where you’d like it to. Whilst it sounds complicated and technical I firmly believe that it makes learning to play golf and subsequently improving fun. Over the next few months I’ll be teaching Lynne, who’s never played golf before, and her progress will be tracked here in this magazine. I can promise that by the time the frost on the course has been replaced with brilliant sunshine Lynne will be out on the golf course playing.

It can be a daunting prospect to start as a complete novice but I’d like to think that I and my team make things as easy and enjoyable as possible and it doesn’t take long before you are striding the fairways marvelling at how you’ve just hit the most amazing shot and it felt so easy. at said, there will also be a great number of times you want to throw your clubs in the nearest pond with utter frustration. But, it’s that idea that you might conquer the game that brings you back.

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Exclusive travel breaks

Aﬀectionately known as Scotland in Miniature, the isle of Arran is the perfect place to relax, unwind and experience stunning island landscapes and nature at its very best. Arran is also one of the most accessible islands with ferry routes from both mainland Scotland and the Kintyre Peninsula. Blackwaterfoot is one of 18 villages dotted along the islands dynamic coastline. e harbour is the central focal point of this picturesque village,with fabulous sandy beaches each side of the burn. Blackwaterfoot is also the home of the famous 12 hole Shiskine Golf Course, a challenging links course with some aweinspiring views. e Family run Best Western Hotel commands a prominent harbour side location overlooking the Kintyre Peninsula. All 37 bedrooms and 7 self-catering apartments oﬀer excellent accommodation, the bars are lively and friendly and the cuisine is of the highest standard whether fine dining or taking a bar lunch. To compliment the facilities there is a comprehensive leisure facility with heated indoor pool, children's pool, sauna and snooker room. is is a great location for a weekend break or as the starting point of your journey around the Islands. We will be featuring other islands in future publications. Forfurther information visit our website at : www.golfandtravelbreaks.com www.bw-kinlochhotel.co.uk Reservations@kinlochhotel.eclipse.co.uk Tel : 01770 860444 BEST WESTERN Kinloch Hotel Blackwaterfoot Isle of Arran

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Caledonian MacBrayne, or CalMac as it is often aﬀectionately abbreviated to, is an award winning ferry operator serving Scotland’s west coast islands since 1851, so over 163 years. ey are now responsible for carrying in excess of 4.6 million passengers per year to 28 locations stretching from the Isle of Arran in the south to the Isle of Lewis in the north. ey support their routes with a fleet of 32 ferries setting sail from 49 ports and harbours, with the ferries varying in size from as little a capacity of 44 passengers and 5 cars, through to 1000 passengers and 110 cars dependent on local requirements. On many CalMac ferries you can experience a wide range of on board services, from coﬀee cabins to bars and retail areas, not forgetting dining areas that prepare delicious food cooked fresh to order. ey take great pride in providing passengers with a menu rich in local provenance, working closely with local suppliers to showcase their wonderful local larder. From quick five-minute crossings to more leisurely seven-hour sailings and a range of exciting ticket options to choose from, the aim is to ensure you’ll discover more by ferry. With CalMac you’ll find a fantastic range of tickets catering for everything from day trips to island hopping tours, and, with Scotland voted the #3 destination in the world to visit in 2014, what better time to explore the beautiful islands. So, why not sail with them through dramatic landscapes and seascapes to some of the most idyllic islands on the planet. Bursting with history and culture, spectacular scenery and wildlife, combined with first class local produce, there are untapped riches of opportunities to explore. From day trips to tours, visiting the islands has never been so easy !

Motorhome touring

Is there a better way to enjoy travelling around e British Isles? Our coastal towns and sea side resorts, the beautiful countryside, our history and heritage make the UK a fascinating place to explore. So what are the choices? Coach tours, self-drive or maybe towing a caravan? Well coach tours are someone else’s idea of what you might like to see and self-drive gives you freedom but is expensive on the pocket with all of those hotels. Now the big question is caravan or motor home? Having tried both there is only one winner in my opinion as long as you are sensible in your choice. It has to be the motor home. If you are happy to take your caravan to one location, pre-book, unhook and set off in the car to explore the areas you have just travelled through, then OK. e motor home scenario however gives you far more options. Yes, I agree if you want to spend time on a busy camp site with motor home facilities you may be advised to pre-book, but surely the idea of the motor home is the freedom to rough camp. I have been touring the UK and Europe for many years and I have yet to find myself without a suitable location for the night. My choice of the Auto trail Apache 634 is one I would highly recommend especially when you take size into consideration. e Apache is big enough to offer all the home comforts you will need on the road, but you will find it easy to manoeuvre and parking up is never a problem. Whilst the Apache is extremely well fitted out, there are a number of additional extras that we had fitted that offer additional security, safety and pure indulgence for life on the road. As I said in my previous feature we are spending the next 12 months travelling around the UK in the Apache and I will be keeping you up to date on our trip. We will be looking at paid sites and safe spots for rough camping as well as advising on places to go and things to do. With limited space in the magazine we are restricted to the number of photographs we can feature, but you will find a greater selection on the web site. I would like to a say special thank you to Andy from phototrainingbreaks.com. Andy offers tuition at his studio and also offers UK and overseas training breaks to Spain and Portugal. Andy has kindly taken us under his wing and he is confident you will see a vast improvement in our photographic skills during this coming year. Our Max View satellite system linked to the superb Avtex TV gives us a fantastic package for those nights when we decide a few hours in front of the television with a glass of wine isn't the worst thing in the world. We had a full range of Laser Line products installed onto our van and the front and rear parking sensors make life so much easier and

gives you added confidence when parking up. Security, both when we leave the van or when we are asleep is paramount and we looked at several alarm systems, Van Bitz and Cobra to name just two but ultimately it came down to a straight fight between Van Bitz and the Laser Line system. After weighing up all of the options there was only one winner, the Laser Line system compares favourably with all of the available systems but value for money and additional features made it a clear winner. With all of our planned travelling we felt we needed a navigation package especially for vans and trucks and we actually got a lot more with our Kenwood in all in one system. e system oﬀers navigation, DAB radio, hands free kit and every conceivable media and entertainment function you would ever need. Our solar panels are a must and give us the freedom to spend days away in the remotest of places without losing all of the essential requirements. We also took the decision to change from Calor to LPG and this was made easy with the help of the Gaslow system which I would highly recommend and a gives a huge saving on the cost of gas. I have to admit to some self-indulgence and last year I had the chance to view some pictures of 2015 motor homes and noticed the trend of black alloy wheels. I need them on my van I thought, but it’s not that easy. It was my good fortune to meet Mark from www.alloywheels.com I hadn't realised the complexities of fitting the correct wheels and tyres and apparently there is very little restriction on what companies will sell us but having spoken at length to Mark my eyes were very much opened. Without going into detail I strongly suggest you contact Mark if you are considering changing your wheels. He owns the company and won’t mind if you request to speak to him personally if you mention that you read about him in this magazine. We did get our wheels fitted, they look great and Mark was so impressed by our van that he actually asked me to find him one. I did and he is now the proud owner of an Apache 634, needless to say with black alloy wheels. Something I want to talk about in future edition is the buying and selling of motor homes as we have a wealth of experience in doing both and I shall be giving you advice on how to make sure you get the very best deal. If you would like any information on the products I have mentioned, advice on installers or anything else motorhome related, please complete the contact form in our golf travel and leisure section to be found on the magazine web site and we will get straight back to you. www.exclusive-magazines.co.uk

Spring 2015

What to do before the races

GRAND NATIONAL

he Crabbie’s Grand National Festival is an illustrious event in the nation’s calendar and nowhere is the excitement and anticipation for the big day more keenly felt than in Liverpool.

Looking and feeling good is part of Liverpool’s mantra and there is nowhere better to prepare for, or celebrate, Ladies Day or the Grand National than in the heart of the city at Liverpool ONE. As Liverpool goes races crazy, step into the cool and calming oasis of the UK’s only Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols. If you need it plucked, preened or pampered then this beauty mecca has it covered.

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Electric will be able to create the perfect races style.

Also situated on the second floor, Nails inc. nail bar will have a colour choice to match any outfit. Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure accompanied with a glass of champagne for a truly indulgent treatment. e ultimate treat in race preparation is to have a professional makeup artist create the perfect beauty look. With almost every makeup brand available across the dozens of counters in Liverpool ONE you’re sure to find the brand to fit your style. Book early to avoid disappointment! Once you have received a first class pampering treatment and are looking races ready it’s time to start the celebrations.

e third floor spa is perfect for a facial in the days leading up to the event with treatments available from Dermalogica, Carita and Elemis to cater for all ages and skin types.

No trip to the races is complete without a champagne breakfast and Liverpool ONE has some of the best on oﬀer.

In order to ensure your hair is looking best in show then head to the second floor for a curly blow dry from the expert stylists at Electric Hair. Masters of the stunning updo too,

Browns is a great location for breakfast with a classic setting and lots of options for every palette including a champagne breakfast in addition to traditional cooked breakfasts, eggs benedict and fresh fruit salad, to name but a few.

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GRAND NATIONAL Côte Bistro, Liverpool ONE’s newest arrival, is a French Brasserie that does a winning breakfast. Wash French toast down with a mimosa in the low key and laid back styling of the restaurant. Also on oﬀer is smoked salmon with scrambled egg and delicious croissants. e WOW champagne bar, Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols, is a great spot to sit and watch the world go by out of the floor to ceiling glass windows. A favourite of the Liverpool elite, it is the perfect setting to start your day prior to the races with something to cater for every taste and plenty of champagne! e whole Grand National experience should be a day to remember from start to finish. Breakfast with bubbles and the perfect hair and make up look created by an expert will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the Festival and all that the city has to oﬀer!

Wow Bar at Harvey Nichols Spring 2015

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GRAND NATIONAL

A beginner's guide to the Grand National The Crabbies Grand National Festival | Aintree Racecourse | 9-11 April 2015 It’s the world's most famous steeplechase, watched by more than half of all British households – many of whom will indulge in a once-a-year flutter. Here’s a beginner's guide to everything you need to know if you're heading to Aintree for the first time.

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GRAND NATIONAL W H e N t o G o : ursday's Grand Opening Day is the ultimate curtain raiser, featuring four races and sensational live music and entertainment. Ladies Day, on Friday, brings a touch of style to proceedings with the Liverpool ONE 'Best Dressed Competition.' Or the one we all want to be at, Grand National Day itself, is the main event on Saturday. W H At t o W e A R : Although there is no oﬃcial dress code, smart is preferable. So for ladies, getting glammed up to the nines is as much part of the fun as having a little flutter. Whilst for gents, you'll want to be suited and booted to cut a dash. Sportswear and fancy dress are an absolute nono.

HoW to Get tHeRe: e easiest way to reach Aintree is by train. Frequent services run from Liverpool Central to Aintree Station, which is directly opposite the racecourse. By road, Aintree Racecourse is located on the A59, just one mile from the M57 and M58, linking the M62 and M6. Follow the A59 to Liverpool and the AA/tourism signs as you approach the racecourse for routes to the car parks.

e Crabbies Grand National Festival takes place from 9-11 April (with the main event on Saturday 11 April) at Aintree Racecourse, Ormskirk Rd, Liverpool, Merseyside, L9 5AS. For more information visit www.thecrabbiesgrandnational.co.uk or call 0151 523 2600. You can also keep up to pace with all the latest news on the Aintree Racecourse Facebook page and @AintreeRaces on Twitter.

W H At t o B R I N G : Bring plenty of cash, obviously, because most bookmakers only accept bets of £5 or more and to cover your food and drinks for the day. Capture your own photo finish by bringing a camera, just be sure to disable the flash, so you don't upset the horses. Bring binoculars (or hire them at the course) if you're keen on following the racing action closely. W H e R e t o s tA N D : e Tattersalls enclosure is the most

popular and atmospheric spot and has access to the parade ring, winner’s enclosure and Red Rum lawn. Or avoid the hustle and bustle in one of the five grandstands. e County and Queen Mother stands both offer winning views of the Winning Post and the legendary racecourse as a whole. W H e R e t o e At A N D D R I N k : From the intimacy of a private box, to the à la carte temptations of the Princess Royal Restaurant (plum next to the Winning Post), or the buffet delights of the Golden Miller Restaurant, there's a dining option to suit every budget. e Moet et Chandon Champagne Bar serves an array of deli sandwiches, as well as fizz, and if you'd rather be trackside there's a vast army of food stands that cater for everything from hog roast, pizza, curry and noodles to burgers and fish and chips. H o W t o B e t : e on-course bookmakers, in front of the grandstand or by the rails, are the beating heart of the betting experience. ey're all different, so it's worth shopping around for the best odds on each race. e two main types of bet are win-only and each-way. For win-only, your horse needs to win the race outright. An each-way bet is essentially two bets: one for your horse to win and the other for it to place first, second, or third. So a £5 each-way bet will cost £10 for example.

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GRAND NATIONAL

The ultimate test of horse and rider The Crabbies Grand National Festival Aintree Racecourse | 9-11 April 2015 one of the biggest, richest and most exciting horse races in the world returns to Aintree on saturday 11 April: the Crabbies Grand National. You can almost hear the thundering hooves, as they crash through the spruce of Becher's Brook, spurred on by the roars of

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75,000 hopeful spectators. to get you in the mood, we take an exclusive look back at the National's illustrious history and some of it's most memorable moments and winners.

GRAND NATIONAL

orty of the finest runners and riders will take to the starting line for the 2015 Crabbies Grand National at Aintree. With hearts pounding, and muscles twitching, they'll jostle eagerly for optimum position; and that's just the crowd of feverish punters. ey're under starters orders, the tape is raised, and...they're oﬀ! In less than ten minutes, the eventual winner will have traversed 16 fearsome fences‘(most more than once) – including the mighty Becher's Brook, e Chair and the Canal Turn – over four miles, three furlongs and 110 yards of breakneck action. In those few moments, dreams and hopes are either crowned in glory or tossed aside like a crumpled betting slip. Over those two laps, of this testing course, fearless jockey and thoroughbred need to keep their nerve amid the chaos of toppled riders, veering riderless horses and a baying legion of trackside spectators. at's if they want to claim the £1 million winner's prize money and etch their name in the history of this equine spectacle.

A b R I e F h I STORy OF The G R A N d NATIONAL In February 1839, Lottery galloped over the finishing line to become the first winner of the Grand Liverpool Steeplechase – the race that would eventually become the Grand National. Previously, the course had been a somewhat more 'agricultural' aﬀair shall we say with horses said to jump a stone wall, and cross a stretch of ploughed land, before finishing over two hurdles. But that year saw the advent of the conventional course, as we know it, along with the arrival of the railway. e ensuing years have borne witness to some incredible highs, lows, and frankly bizarre incidents. Here are some of the standout moments...

d e vO N LO Ch A ROyAL FLOp To this day, no other Grand National has featured such a breathtaking and inexplicable collapse as that of the 1956 race. Devon Loch, one of two runners that day owned by Queen Elizabeth e Queen Mother, led the field for the best part of the race. Having cleared the last fence safely all that was left for him, and jockey Dick Francis, to do was romp home to victory. However, on the final straight the heir elect to the National crown made a royal hash of proceedings, as his rear legs slipped from under him in what can only be described as a humiliating belly flop. By the time Devon Loch was back on his feet, E.S.B had surged past to the finishing post – much to everyone's surprise, except perhaps the monarch who coolly exclaimed: “Oh, that's racing!” Spring 2015

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GRAND NATIONAL

F O I NAvON deFIeS The OddS e 1967 Grand National witnessed a remarkable win from a rank outsider. A loose horse, named Popham Down, unseated his rider and proceeded to lurch across the path of the leading group, chopping them down like daisies at the 23rd jump. e ensuing chaos left the door wide open for the much unfancied 100/1 outsider, Foinavon, to claim a surprise victory. e magnitude of his achievement was recognised in 1984 when the 23rd (also the seventh) hurdle was re-named the 'Foinavon Fence.'

R e d R u m'S TRebLe Having passed through several training yards, the as-yetunknown Red Rum was snapped up for £6,300 by the late, great trainer Ginger McCain for owner Noel le Mare. Legend has it that during training, on the sands of Southport, McCain would encourage Red Rum to gallop and swim oﬀshore to alleviate the thoroughbred's pedal osteitis – an incurable bone disease of the hoof. Boy did it work. Despite his condition, Red Rum became, and remains, the only horse to have won the Grand National three times. He dominated the race in the seventies, running out winner in 1973, 1974, and – at the grand old age of 12 years old – clinched the historic treble in 1977. He also managed to finish second in the intervening years of 1975 and 1976. Red Rum died in 1995, aged 30, and was fittingly buried at the winning post of Aintree Racecourse.

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GRAND NATIONAL

“e crowd are willing him home now. e 12-year-old Red Rum, being preceded only by loose horses, being chased by Churchtown Boy...ey're coming to the elbow, just a furlong now between Red Rum and his third Grand National triumph. It's hats oﬀ, and a tremendous reception, you've never heard one like it at Liverpool...and Red Rum wins the National!”

But, whether you go by form, colours or a catchy name, we'll wager that you'll want to be among the quarter of the UK population who'll be having a flutter on the greatest show on earth this April. e Crabbies Grand National Festival takes place from 9-11 April (with the main event on Saturday 11 April) at Aintree Racecourse, Ormskirk Rd, Liverpool, Merseyside, L9 5AS. For more information visit www.thecrabbiesgrandnational.co.uk or call 0151 523 2600. You can also keep up to pace with all the latest news on the Aintree Racecourse Facebook page and @AintreeRaces on Twitter.

Commentator Peter O'Sullevan describes Red Rum's record third Grand National win in 1977. FA L S e S TA RTS ANd bOmb ThReATS e 1993 Grand National was declared void after "the greatest disaster in the history of the Grand National," according to legendary commentator, Peter O'Sullevan. A false start announcement was missed by 30 of the 39 jockeys who raced on unawares. Seven horses completed the full length of the course, forcing a void result, in what became known as “the race that never was.” Meanwhile two coded bomb threats, from the Provisional IRA, brought the 1997 Grand National to a shuddering halt. After police had secured the racecourse, there followed a full evacuation of jockeys, staﬀ and 60,000 spectators. With cars and coaches impounded in the course grounds, around 20,000 people were left stranded, many of whom were taken in by generous locals. e race eventually ran on Monday, with widespread free admission to bolster the weekday crowd.

G I N G e R m CCAIN mAkeS IT F O u R T h T I me LuCky In 2004 Ginger McCain returned to the winner's enclosure, equalling George Dockeray and Fred Rimell's record feat of training four Grand National winners. is time it would be Amberleigh House who'd seal his fate. After early leader Hedgehunter, who returned to win in 2005, suﬀered a fall at the last the scene was set for a head-to-head encounter between Clan Royal and Amberleigh House, with the latter proving just too strong. Last year's winner was Pineau de Re, who became only the sixth French-bred horse to win the Grand National. But who will win this year's race? Only time, and Lady Luck, will tell. Spring 2015

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DECLAN JONES

Driving To The Top Young Merseyside Racing Driver Declan Jones

eclan Jones is only just 19 years old but is one of a brand new breed of mature, talented and very quick racing drivers. Already teams and fellow drivers have been impressed by the youngsters, composure and technical skills and his considerable race craft at the wheel in what is an extremely competitive racing series. e GT class consists of some of the world’s major racing brands including Porsche, Aston Martin, BMW and Ginetta. e young driver has already shown his huge potential and has achieved regular podium finishes and has numerous victories, fastest laps and pole positions to his name. Last year’s Winner Jeﬀ Wyatt partnered Declan in the BMW M3 GT4 and was massively impressed by the ability and maturity of this rising star. Declan is now looking forward to a hectic season in 2015 and already has his sights set firmly on competing in endurance racing. He sees this as very much the future for

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him and he has already had experience in the Dijon V de V Endurance Proto class race in Dijon where he raced last year having impressed in the RLR Motorsport LIGIER JS53 EVO Team principle Nick Reynolds commented, “Declan approached it like a true professional, showing consistency, pace and raw talent. He was quick to the point where during the race he was actually one of the quickest cars on the track. He got there in a very short time having never driven a high down-force car before. He was also very quick in the wet and I am flabbergasted by how quickly he has progressed.” Declan Jones, from Halewood in Liverpool will certainly be a name to look out for within racing circles in the not too distant future and this likable young man is going to win many fans and not just for his racing, e 24 Le Mans race may be only a few years away for this talented Liverpool youngster. #declanjones14

declanjonesracing

DECLAN JONES Declan began Karting in 2005 . He moved into cadet karts and won 4 out of 5 novice cups available. In 2007 Declan became Mini Max Hooton Park Champion and took multiple wins at local club rounds. In 2008 Declan moved into Junior Max, becoming MBKC winter series champion at 3 sisters, Dragon Master winner at Gyg in Wales and gained 3rd in the Rotax Cup at 3 Sisters. Declan finished 2nd over all in the MBKC Championship. In 2009 Declan joined Junior Max. He finished 14th in Formula Kart Stars. at same season, Declan finished 2nd in the Dragon Master Cup. He also gained multiple club wins around the country. In 2010 Declan continued in Junior Max and became MBKC winter series winner at 3 Sisters and 2nd overall in the championship as well as Dragon Master Cup winner at Gyg. Declan also gained multiple wins around the UK. He finished 15th in the Super One Championship and joint 3rd in the Formula Kart Stars Championship. at season Declan also became Cumbria O Plate winner and won the last round of Formula Kart Stars at Ellough Park. e 2010 season also gave Declan a taste of the future in the form of the Ginetta junior scholarship, with getting through to the last 12. 2011 saw the eventual move from Karting. Joining the Ginetta

Juniors and gaining multiple top 10 finishes. Ending a successful year in a very respectable 13th position in the championship. In 2012 the ever confident Declan began racing in the VdeV Endurance Championship. e Dijon 2hr race saw a victory in his class, 3rd in Prototypes and 6th overall. 2012 also witnessed Declan enter the Ginetta GT Supercup, the support race to the British Touring Car Championship. First time out at Oulton Park Declan put his car on pole by just over 7 tenths of a second and finished 3rd on the Sunday race. At Knockhill Declan finished 2nd and 3rd. At Rockingham Declan finished a 3rd and at Silverstone gained 2nd and 1st. e last round at Brands Hatch saw Declan gain 1st and 2nd and 3rd. 2012 Proved to be a very successful year, capping oﬀ what is already a remarkable career so far. In 2013 , Declan signed for Century Motorsport to compete in the British GT Championship. Partnering Zoë Wenham for the first 5 rounds and Nathan Freke for rounds 6 and 7, in a GT4class Ginetta G50. He finished 1st in the first two rounds at Oulton Park and became one of the youngest ever winners in the series.

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EPSTEIN THEATRE

The Historical Epstein Theatre

A NEw ErA

In 2007 Joe Anderson Leader of Liverpool City Council made the reopening of the theatre a priority and arranged a £1 million investment from the Council and eatre’s Landlords, Hanover Estates Management and subsequently work began in 2010. After regenerating the space, restoring the original features including the grand auditorium chandeliers and bringing the building into the 21st century the theatre was ready to open for the first time as the rebranded Epstein eatre in 2012. e Epstein eatre (as it is known today) was named in memory of Liverpool's most successful music entrepreneur and Beatles manager Brian Epstein, whose portrait hangs pertinently in Brian’s Bar within the venue. Brian was renowned for his contributions to the city's cultural and music scene and although he never appeared in the eatre’s history he is honoured within these walls.

ith its stunning interior, rich and colourful history, and having been held in such high acclaim by many generations of Liverpool folk, the Epstein eatre is a must see when in Liverpool.

After a successful couple of decades the theatre was under threat of closure and in 1967 Liverpool City Council bought the building to make it ‘For local people, by local People’ and the renowned Neptune eatre was born, named after the city’s great maritime links.

In 1913 the Hanover Street venue opened its doors as the Cranes Music Hall. Built by the Cranes Brothers, the theatre was used originally for instrumental recitals and to showcase the works of the Crane and Sons Music Shop located below.

Keeping with the ethos the 390 capacity venue was a principal place in Liverpool entertainment, oﬀering a wide range of amateur dramatic productions. In 1993 there was another suggested closure until performers and actors including Dame Judy Dench successfully campaigned to keep the theatre doors open, however, with low income and funding and a serious need for refurbishment e Neptune did ultimately close in June 2005.

Between 1913 – 1938 the grade II listed hall was mainly used for amateur dramatic productions and with its proscenium arch staging it was adeptly renamed Cranes eatre to fit with its programming. 110

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Rebekah Pichilingi, the current Epstein eatre General Manager since it reopened in 2012 is passionate about maintaining and preserving the culture and history of the building. Rebekah says, “e eatre is one of the most beautiful and prestigious venues in Liverpool. It is a privilege to have the opportunity of working at the Epstein and to continue with the passion and determination of those brilliant women who have managed in the past.

EPSTEIN THEATRE

“We have been lucky to have worked with so many wonderful artists and promoters bringing to a new and old audience a colourful and diverse array of performances” Since re-opening Epstein eatre has played host to a complete variety of shows and is beginning to establish its brand as a ‘family theatre’ catering to all ages, something the team wishes to expand upon in 2015. When asked about the talent and future productions Rebekah says, “We cater to all, from Comedy to dance, burlesque to children’s theatre and not forgetting our wonderful Pantomime Company that we see grow every season. Our aim is to satisfy the most discerning of tastes and most importantly, to keep the history alive.”

e Epstein eatre has welcomed many successful plays featuring actors such as Andrew Lancel, Andrew Schofield and Crissy Rock and with its grand interior the venue has become popular in recent years with touring comics, artists and bands from Simon Amstell to Jake Bugg. e venues busiest season to date launched this January and welcomes Epstein’s first in-house production Waiting For Gateaux, in April, Helen Forrester’s Twopence to cross the Mersey, in March and a children’s classic Tiger who Came to Tea, in June. In the last 12 months the team at this none publicly funded theatre have been busy looking for new ventures for the space to keep the theatre a staple place in modern day Liverpool. Events Co-ordinator Megan Lowry shares some more exciting news “ In 2015 Epstein eatre is to be host to our first wedding on the famous stage. e team here at e Epstein along with the happy couple are very excited to be adding another chapter to our incredible history.

Cranes eatre, e Neptune eatre and now Epstein eatre has provided a wide range of live entertainment for over 100 years. In the past three years Epstein has hosted one of the City’s most sought after Christmas pantomimes, something that the Neptune began in 1993 and has been continually growing in popularity all over the City. LHK Productions produce the pantomime, which has now been extended to an Easter Half term run.

In addition, last year we launched as a conference space and are due to expand further into the business sector over the coming months.”

Lee Kelly LHK Director, “e Epstein eatre is a stunning venue. It holds a special place in my heart since starting my career there over 20 years ago. It is my second home with a great team whom LHK love dearly. I look forward to many more years on the stage.”

Keep up to date with Epstein eatre on – www.epsteinliverpool.co.uk Twitter @Epsteineatre Facebook Epsteineatre You can contact the events team for hiring information on events@epsteinliverpool.co.uk

In spite of its turbulent history the theatre holds fond memories for the people of Liverpool. Epstein eatre is beginning to reclaim its position within the City’s list of historical entertainment venues, and we hope this will continue for many more years to come.

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What ’s ON

What's On?

Liverpool events this Spring With the worst of the winter weather behind us there's plenty of spring cheer on the horizon. Not least the blockbuster schedule of top notch events that are set to take our city by storm these next few months. ere's so much going on in actual fact that we've cherry picked an Exclusive rundown of the best. C O m e dy 2 5 M a r | Fa s c i nat i n g a ï da LiverpooL phiLharMonic 7.30pM | £20–£26

If you've ever felt short changed by a sub-standard budget airline experience then you might just identify with comedy cabaret act, Fascinating Aïda, and their ode to airline mediocrity:

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Cheap flights. You and more than four million others who have watched the titillating trio of Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman perform the song on YouTube. Catch the threetime Olivier Award nominees live at the Philharmonic and prepare yourself to guﬀaw at the absurdity of three prim and proper singers lampooning everything from health and safety, dogging, and even education watchdogs Ofsted. Highbrow humour at its best. 1 M ay | Laughterhouse c o Medy | the sLaughter h o use | 8pM | £15–£28

Head to e Slaughter House on Friday 1 May for an evening of high class humour. Cheeky chappy Neil Fitzmaurice (of Phoenix Nights, e Oﬃce and Peepshow fame) is your compere for the evening and he'll be revving up the crowd for three scheduled headline acts. ey include former winner of Channel 4's 'So You ink You're Funny' competition, Rob Rouse; Steve Jameson's comic creation, the showbiz raconteur Sol Bernstein; and Dave Johns.

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3 May | dara o'Briain | LiverpooL eMp ire | 8pM | £26.90

Dara O'Briain is one of the most recognisable faces on British TV. e Irish comedian has tickled us as host of the hugely successful Mock e Week, e Apprentice You’re Fired and teamed up with physicist, Brian Cox, for Star Gazing Live. at's not forgetting his other recent brainteasing shows Dara O'Briain: School of Hard Sums and Dara O'Briain's Science Club. So head to the Empire on 3 May for a glimpse of O'Briain at home in his natural environment, on stage doing standup, with his intelligent brand of sharp humour and rapid fire observations.

What ’s ON

muSiC 13 M a r | L i o n e L r i c h i e : aL L t h e h i t s a L L n i g h t Lo n g | e c h o a r e na | 8 p M £4 4 . 5 0 – £ 7 1 . 5 0

Warming up for his Sunday afternoon 'Legends' slot at Glastonbury later this summer five-time GRAMMY winner, Lionel Richie, returns to say Hello to his adoring British fans as part of a 31date European tour that takes in nine UK stops along the way. Richie's All the Hits All Night Long tour kicked oﬀ in the States in September 2013 and the evergreen showman has since packed in 70 live shows across North America, Oceania and Asia. It's a safe bet that he'll have the Liverpool crowd Dancing on the Ceiling of the Echo on 13 March.

nominated for the Mercury music prize the following year. By 2013 the 27year-old headlined on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury and scooped two Brit awards (British Breakthrough Act and Best Male Solo Artist). Now, fresh oﬀ the back of another number one album, Howard's triumphant return to the home of music is his only stop in the North West, as part of his run of seven arena shows in April. 1 3 M ay | s cLuB 7 | echo a r e na | 7.30pM | £39–£50

It's true, they're back. Bradley McIntosh, Hannah Spearritt, Jo O'Meara, Jon Lee, Paul Cattermole,

Rachel Stevens and Tina Barrett are set to Bring It All Back with S Club 7's first arena tour in more than ten years. ey were, in their time, a worldwide phenomenon. Back in those halcyon days of the early noughties the septet racked up four multi-platinum selling albums, two Brit Awards, and nine number one international hit singles. Remember those pop classics Reach, Don't Stop Movin' and S Club Party? Not to mention their smash hit TV programmes, Miami 7 and LA7, which were watched by more than 90 million people in over 100 countries. Relive the good times as they roll back the years, just with slightly less vigorous dance routines possibly.

13 a p r i L | B en h o Wa r d ec h o a r e na | 7 . 3 0 p M | £ 3 1

Ben Howard kicks oﬀ the UK leg of his 45-date I Forget Where We Were world tour right here in Liverpool at the Echo Arena on 13 April. It's been a stellar rise to fame for the Middlesex singer-songwriter. Platinum selling album, Every Kingdom, was his major breakthrough in 2011 and saw him

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What ’s ON

SpOrt FootBaLL Fixtures March

Sun 24 May | Everton v Tottenham | 3pm Buy tickets for Everton home ﬁxtures online at evertonfc.com Or visit the Goodison Park Box Oﬃce, the Everton Two store in Liverpool One or TicketQuarter, Queen Square. 2 7 - 2 9 M a r | 2015 British g y M na s t i c s c h a M p i o n ship e c h o a r e na | tiMes va r y £ 8 . 5 0–£141.96

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Catch a glimpse of Britain's most talented gymnasts as they tumble, twist and tuck gracefully into the Echo Arena for an explosive demonstration of their gravity defying brilliance. With places up for grabs at the World Gymnastics Championship in Glasgow, and the race to Rio hotting up, you can be sure that these athletes will want to pull out all the stops to impress. Reigning men's champion, Max Whitlock, dominated the sport in 2014 winning European pommel horse gold, Commonwealth Games all-around, floor and team gold and clinching a memorable World Championship all-around silver. ere should be plenty of local interest too in the form of returning women's champion, Rebecca Tunney and Southport YMCA's Commonwealth medallists Daniel Purvis and Frank Baines.

25 May | the istanBuL reunion night | echo arena 7.30pM | £29.70

It still ranks as one of the most remarkable sporting comebacks in history. Two footballing giants locked horns on a special night at Istanbul's Ataturk Stadium on 25 May 2005. After veteran Milan captain, Paolo Maldini, had volleyed in a first goal after just one minute of play things looked ominous for the Reds. Two further goals before halftime, from Argentine Hernán Crespo, really knocked the stuﬃng out of Rafael Benitez's team and their travelling supporters. en...well, you know the rest! A decade on, to the day, those same Liverpool players gather at the Echo for a nostalgic reunion for the ten year anniversary of the 'Miracle of Istanbul.' is is a once in a lifetime opportunity to relive that miraculous match, with commentary from the players covering everything from the build-up, the nerves, and the elation of seeing Steven Gerrard hoist the trophy to claim Liverpool's fifth European crown.

What ’s ON heartthrob, Johnny, sees our heroine find her dancing feet in this coming-ofage romance that features all your favourite hit songs, including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the uplifting (literally!) I've Had e Time of My Life. Don't miss this chance to boogie down memory lane when Liverpool hosts the fastest selling West End show in history. 11-16 May | spaMaLot | LiverpooL eMp ire | tiMes vary | £12.90–£41.90

t h e at r e 30 - 3 1 M a r c h | s e x i n su B u r B i a | L i v e r p o o L eM p i r e | 7 . 3 0 p M £2 1 . 9 0 – £ 2 8 . 9 0

Direct from a sell-out run of performances at the Liverpool Royal Court, Claire Sweeney takes her acclaimed stage show hit, Sex in Suburbia, on a UK-wide tour. Sweeney stars in and co-writes this comedy about dating, men and finding 'Mr Right.' Penny Crowe is the host of a late-night radio phone-in. As Britain’s leading Agony Aunt she'll happily dish out relationship advice to her legion of

adoring fans but is she as willing to take it? Loaded with smash hit songs like I’m Every Woman, I Want To Break Free and Somebody Else’s Guy, this home-grown romp – based on real stories, from real women – is sure to strike a chord. 7 - 2 5 a priL | dirty dancing L i v e r pooL eMp ire | tiMes va r y | £12.90–£79.90

Nobody puts Baby in the corner but the Empire puts her centre stage with the stage version of the smash hit 80s classic: Dirty Dancing. A summer romance with snake-hipped

What's that we hear? Is that the sound of knocking coconut shells...ahem, we mean galloping horses?! Why yes it is because Monty Python's much-loved West End and Broadway hit, Spamalot, gallops out on tour to tell the spoof tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. With a raucous plot 'lovingly ripped oﬀ' from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and a singa-long score from Eric Idle and John Du Prez – featuring hits like He Is Not Dead Yet and perennial favourite Always Look on the Bright Side of Life – this is the comedic holy grail for Python fans and newbies alike.

Please check the relevant website for more information. Additional fees apply in most cases. Liverpool Philharmonic: www.liverpoolphil.com e Slaughter House: www.laughterhousecomedy.com Echo Arena: www.echoarena.com Liverpool Empire eatre: www.atgtickets.com/shows Spring 2015

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CLAIRE HOuse

Giving The Gift Of Time

Claire House Children's Hospice | Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, Wirral CH63 4JD Claire House Children's Hospice provides respite and end-of-life care for children and young adults with terminal conditions. It's a living testament to Claire Louise Cain, a brave nine-year-old from Wallasey, whose untimely death in 1989 prompted her parents to galvanise a fundraising effort to launch this vital facility. Simon Grant gives an Exclusive account of how it's helping countless families to make the most of their precious time together.

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laire's legacy is a Bebington based hospice that now looks after 190 families from across Merseyside, Cheshire, North Wales, West Lancashire and the Isle of Man. e home-from-home facility, which is 80 percent funded by charitable donations, helps to enrich young lives to the fullest however they can. Whether that be in the hydrotherapy pool or sensory rooms, through music therapy and arts and crafts, or by organising parties and celebrity visits. Every second together is lived to the maximum at Claire House. e dedicated care team not only go to extraordinary lengths to care for each and every child's welfare and happiness but they also oﬀer invaluable respite to parents and carers, as well as ongoing support and counselling for as long as it's needed. eir work also extends beyond the hospice grounds with a specialist Hospice To Home nursing team that works in the heart of the community.

e scheme was set up in 2007 to provide specialist respite, palliative and end-of-life care and support to children, young people and their families at home. Tony Langan, 42, from West Derby, knows firsthand what a special place Claire House can be for a family in need. Shortly after the birth of their son, Harvey, Tony and his wife Lyn were told their boy was suﬀering from a rare metabolic condition, called peroxisome biogenesis disorder. eir world was suddenly, and cruelly, turned upside down. “Harvey's bouncing around on my knee, happy as anything, and I just couldn't take in what the doctor had said,” Tony recalls. “You know when you get that shocked feeling, the heat comes over you, and everything becomes a blur? We took Harvey home and tried to come to terms with everything. But I was crying myself to sleep for six or eight weeks afterwards.

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CLAIRE HOuse “I'd stopped enjoying Harvey,” he continues. “It was like I felt guilty, I couldn't look him in the eyes. Lyn got hold of me one day and said 'listen, we don't know how long we've got him but we owe it to him to make sure every day is as special as it can be with him.' To be fair we did. We really, really did.” It is a reaction familiar to Lesley Fellows, Manager of Claire House's Hospice To Home team who have supported Tony and his family at every turn. “When a child has been diagnosed with a terminal condition the family feel that they're never going to be able to smile again or enjoy their child,” says Lesley. “So it's just refocussing them and making them realise that every day is precious and trying to switch from looking at the negatives to the positives.

“If they are really sick and poorly, it's not about what they can't do, it's about what they can do. It's making sure that we know what is important for them, so that we can help them achieve that, and so they don't have any regrets.” It's that positivity, infused throughout the hospice by its inspirational staﬀ and the remarkable children that they care for, that led to Claire House becoming a cherished second home for Harvey and his family. e happy memories, moments of respite, and sheer professionalism of the care team are fondly remembered by Tony. He says: “e staﬀ were all fighting over who was going to look after Harvey. We had a look round and we were shown arts and crafts rooms, sensory rooms, and an amazing hydrotherapy pool. We just had an absolute ball while we were in Claire House.

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“When you walk in you'd never imagine that anything sad had ever happened there. It's just the brightest, happiest, most positive place you could ever go to.” Unfortunately, moments of sadness do occur there. In 2010, Harvey's health had deteriorated to such an extent that his final two months of life were spent in intensive care. He passed away in March that year aged four years old. e family spent Harvey's final week together, at Claire House, where they could say their farewells, grieve in peace, and get vital support and counselling. Tony says: “We got our chance to say our last goodbyes to him and we'll be forever grateful to Claire House for that. We'd seen the happy times there, and we've got all the happy memories, but ultimately they were there to hold our hand at the most painful, unbearable time of our lives. ey got us through it and that's what they do.” Five years on, Tony and Lyn still access Claire House to attend regular group counselling sessions with a support network of other parents who have also experienced similarly heartbreaking bereavements. Lesley continues: “e best thing about my job is getting to know the families inside and out. I've been here for more

than 12 years and some families have been coming here since I first started. I've been able to follow their journeys and be with them through the good times and the bad. “If one of my children needed hospice care or terminal care I'd want the very best for my child. We have professionals that are skilled in the relevant areas, and have created a home-from-home environment so that we're less threatening to families – you can't access that anywhere else.”

If you think your family would benefit from the services of Claire House, call the hospice on 0151 334 4626. Or if you'd like to lend your support there are lots of ways to get involved. From volunteering and fundraising, through to donation and attending events, every little helps. Visit www.claire-house.org.uk, or call the Fundraising Centre on 0151 343 0883, for more information.

Tony now works fulltime for Claire House, as a corporate fundraiser, having turned his back on a 13-year career in financial services, to give something back to a charity that means so much to him and his family. “It's the most fulfilling job I've ever had,” he says. “You're making a diﬀerence and you get to tell people about the children who come to Claire House. It's a privilege to know the kids and still be involved. I get a lot from it and hopefully give them something back.” He adds: “It is an amazing place. e facilities and everything are fantastic but it's not the facilities that make it. It's the brilliant staﬀ that are there, the warmth of them, and the magic that the kids bring when they're in the hospice.”

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FEATURE FASHION

Southport Fashion Show 2015 Southport Theatre and Convention Centre Sunday 29th March S O U T H P O R T FA S H I O N S H O W returns to Southport this year on Sunday 29th March - with organisers planning to make it the biggest fashion and lifestyle event the town has ever seen.

e event is in its third year and will be held at Southport eatre And Convention Centre on Sunday 29th March between Midday and 5pm. e event which is organised by GMODELS & Casting Agency directors Lisa Hames and Jeff Wilkinson has already secured some of the region’s most elite clothing shops, hair, accessory and beauty salons to take part in the event which guarantees fashionistas a full day of shopping, fashion shows, entertainment and much more so there will be something for everyone on the day. Organisers are also in talks to bring celebrity guests to the show, and are appealing for potential sponsors and regional businesses to get involved. Clothing companies will be showing off their latest Spring/Summer collections with clothes shown off in style on the catwalk by models from GModels & Casting Agency. e show will also feature live acts, singers and performers and the event itself will be hosted by Baz Todd ( Juice FM ) and special guests. Businesses will also be running a wide variety of stalls inside the convention centre giving visitors the opportunity to shop, be pampered and sample some of the delicious food delights Southport has to offer. ere will also be an arts and crafts section, entertainment and face painting for the children. Southport charity Community Link Foundation has been nominated as the chosen charity and there will be fund raising activities on the day of the event.

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Lisa Hames commented "Dozens of local firms from the fashion, beauty, food and leisure industries have already signed up to take part in the annual celebration. ere will be a full catwalk in true Milan style which will feature 10 spectacular runway shows showcasing the latest SS15 collections and visitors will be entertained throughout the day by some of the regions finest talents and most outstanding acts including dancers, vocalists, circus style entertainment and celebrity appearances "

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You can purchase your tickets priced at £6 online by visiting www.southportfashion.co.uk

H O T F R Ox

For more details you can email info@southportfashion.co.uk or call 01704 469897 to receive a full information & media pack.

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