Zebra magazine Sep 2011 by Diane Tremarco

zebra ISSUE TWO | SEPTEMBER 2010

EMMA RODGERS INTERNATIONAL SCULPTRESS

AND SUPER MUM

‘IT’S LOVE THAT REALLY COUNTS’

BOOK AND CD LAUNCH BILLY KINSLEY BY SPENCER LEIGH

BENNA - LOCAL DESIGNER

LATEST ACCESSORIES

GADGETS TO MOVE YOU

WE CHECK OUT THE PLAYSTATION MOVE

THIS MAGAZINE IS FREE WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS

www.zebramag.co.uk

forwhenyouneed tostandoutfromthecrowd...

20 Balls Road, Birkenhead. T:0151 652 0880 E:admin@dtmsonline.com | W:dtmsonline.com

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CREDITS

CONTENTS

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TEAM ZEBRA

CONTRIBUTORS

IN THIS ISSUE

Diane Tremarco

Kate Eugeni

Editor in Chief e: editor@zebramag.co.uk m: 07590 540 535

Interviews & Make Up e: kate@zebramag.co.uk

5 6 8 10 12 14 16 19 20 22 23 24 28 31 32 32 33 33 34 36 40 41 42 44 45 46 50 51 51 52 54 56 56 58 58 60 61 62 64 66

SEPTEMBER 2010

John Gorman

Hannah Gratton

Art & Culture e: john@zebramag.co.uk

Assistant Editor e: admin@zebramag.co.uk m: 0151 651 0201

Angela Samata

Jon Sorensen

Art & Culture e: angela@zebramag.co.uk

Senior Designer e: artwork@zebramag.co.uk m: 07803 593 372

Daniel Davis

Jade Tremarco

Anne Roberts

Administrator e: admin@zebramag.co.uk m: 07854 015 938

Health & Beauty e: anne@zebramag.co.uk

Zak Sliwka Print Co-ordinator e: admin@zebramag.co.uk m: 07889 859 655

Business e: dan@zebramag.co.uk

Kirsty Doyle Women’s Fashion e: kirsty@zebramag.co.uk

Christine Lesley

Sam Tyler

Hair for Men & Women e: christine@zebramag.co.uk

Designer e: artwork@zebramag.co.uk t: 0151 651 0201

Benna Harry

Daniel O’Connor Apprentice Designer e: artwork@zebramag.co.uk t: 0151 651 0201

Women’s Fashion e: benna@zebramag.co.uk

Les Bone Home & Garden e: Les@zebramag.co.uk

Nicolé Simmons Apprentice Journalist e: admin@zebramag.co.uk t: 0151 651 0201

Lesley Rampton

Editors Page News for September Cromwells, Earthy Food Wine to Dine, Tipples of the Month Getting Saucy with Fennel News, Food and Drink September Salsa, from The Red Door Toxic Water? A Guide to your Lead Water Mains Making a Statement Kirsty Doyle, Tailored Trends Accessories, Bold and Beautiful Bits and Pieces, Accessories to Die For Natural Neutral Top Tips, Five Steps to Beautiful Skin Nude Tonight, Two Great Looks Free Fall, Autumn Styling Have a Heart, A Healthy One Off Course Eat Your Way To... Lowering Your Cholesterol Ziggy's Competition Next Please, Men's Fashion Are You Ready For PlayStation Move? Go Go Gadgets, Techy Toys Liverpool Pride, Freedom So You Want To Be A Writer? A Poet and you May Not Know It The Monkey's Finger, Birthday Surprise Emma Rodgers, International Sculpturess and Super Mum InFocus, Local Talent Clapperboard Presents... The Wirral International Film Festival Joel Hall Dances, Floral Pavillion Every Man Must Have A Dream, Billy Kinsley Your Ultimate Wedding Countdown, Everything You Need to Know and more Prenton Golf, Of Course Last Man Standing, Cricket Craze Super Sunday, Unsung Heroes Rovers New Friends, It's Puuurrrfect Business Apps, Essential iPhone Apps B2B, Keeping it Simple What's On, September Directory, Your Guide To Wirral A Day In The Life Of...

Accounts Manager e: sales@zebramag.co.uk m: 07730 530 954

Zebra Magazine Ltd, 20 Balls Road, Birkenhead, CH43 5RE. T: 0151 651 0201 | E: admin@zebramag.co.uk | www.zebramag.co.uk Copy deadline for October edition: September 17th 2010 Insert: only one insert / leaflet will be permitted per edition on a first come, first serve basis at a rate of £70.00 per 1,000. Artwork: please supply finished artwork as a high resolution PDF (300dpi min). Design is offered at no extra cost, but charges will be made if more than one revision is required.

Published by DTMS Print, 20 Balls Road, Birkenhead, CH43 5RE. T: 0151 652 0880 | E: admin@dtmsprint.com | www.dtmsprint.com No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior permission of the publisher. Whilst every care is taken, the publisher can take no responsibility for omissions or errors. All prices and details are correct at the time of going to print, the publisher can take no responsibility for change.

SECTION KEY

FOOD & DRINK

GADGETS

HOME & INTERIORS

ARTS & CULTURE

FASHION

SPORT & LEISURE

HAIR & BEAUTY

BUSINESS

YOUNG PEOPLE

NIGHTLIFE

EDITOR

DIANE TREMARCO ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................

SEPTEMBER... September is a thoroughly positive month. Most of us have been on our summer jollies and return to work with a spring in our step. The children put aside their facebook accounts and mobile phones (bless) for at least part of the day as they return to school and shops engage in their end of season sales. We of course simply must have that top or those shoes even if we can’t wear them until next summer. Inside Zebra Magazine this month, we take a peek at the career of Billy Kinsley, a local musician who had top ten hits with The Merseybeats, The Merseys and Liverpool Express. I have known Billy for thirty years (I have just gasped out loud) and have been fortunate to witness first hand his passion for music. Respected by his peers and adored by his fans the long awaited story of his rise to fame with all the tales of the Merseybeat era, has been captured in a book written by Spencer Leigh. We also take a look at what local artist Emma Rodgers has been up to so far this year. I have admired Emma’s work for some time, but I equally admire her ability to juggle her international career with being a devoted mum to her two girls and wife to Johnny. Her energy and enthusiasm inspires those around her and she is held in high regard by both her peers and her friends. We introduce two new columnists this month and a host of new features. Kirsty Doyle and Benna Harris join us in our fashion section to keep us up to date with the latest trends. Benna’s work is featured in a four page shoot allowing us a peek into her new seasons look book. We have now launched the website at www.zebramag.co.uk and although it is still in its infancy, we hope you will utilise the what’s on guide and watch out for any web only news items. You can also follow us on twitter @zebrawirral and via our blog, integrated within our site. Don’t forget to enter our fab competition to win a Cross Personal Agenda on page seven and have the best month.

e: editor@zebramag.co.uk t: 0151 651 0201 m: 07590 540 535

Photographs from the top: Diane Tremarco and Peter Johnson The Zebra Mag Launch Brian “Saxophone” Jones and Jon Sorensen Diane Tremarco greets Billy Butler

NEWS

FOR SEPTEMBER Branded Chocolates from £0.84 | www.thorntons.co.uk Thorntons bespoke branded packaging offers you the opportunity to showcase a full colour company logo on a high quality box. They also offer individual sleeves that slip simply over their Thorntons Continental or Thorntons Classics boxes, transforming them into something completely unique and immediately identifiable. An excellent choice for clients or staff presents this year and one we recommend you look into.

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Peugeot Kisbee www.peugeot.com Aesthetically speaking, the Kisbee scooter is stylish and prestigious with a fantastic finish. The slender silhouette, that streamlined winddeflector giving it a dynamic look, its elegant chrome headlights, the design is decidedly modern: you've got it - it's a Peugeot. Available in 4 colours, you have the choice of a colour range that is both elegant and stimulating, inspired by the Kisbee spirit. But the Kisbee scooter is more than a fashion statement - it's financially ultra-competitive. With a new 4stroke air-cooled engine (new piston, lighter connecting rod, new 3chamber exhaust for more torque, carburettor with electric heater), there is a genuine combination of performance and comfort. With a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to 2-stroke engines and a

Letter Soaps £5.99 | T: 01935 873186 | www.jonnyssister.co.uk Handmade in Somerset using the finest natural ingredients, these soaps are free from Parabens and suitable for vegetarians. They are quality ingredients and our soaps are so mild and gentle they are suitable for all skins, even the most sensitive.

The pink soaps with hearts are lightly scented with wild heather and hawthorn and the blue soaps with stars are lightly scented with an ocean fragrance. Hand wrapped in glassine paper in a white gift box, they make wonderful presents for children, friends, teachers, or just anyone that appreciates something a little different and personal. Use for initials, spell a name, or how about a word... BATH, WASH, SOAP, SUDS...

if you haven't already come across voucher code website’s then we suggest you log onto the two examples shown here. You'll find vouchers to lots of big brand companies, some of which have unbelievable offers...

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DIANE TREMARCO

range of about 200 km, this smart scooter proves brilliantly that economy and ecology are two perfectly compatible ideas. As always attentive to detail, for the Kisbee Peugeot has added a baghook as well as 2 helmet-hooks on the seat hinge, proving how far Peugeot will go to satisfy its clientele’s requirements in practical and comfort terms. The Kisbee's 12" wheels make it an intuitive and easy drive, as easy to handle as it is comfortable, in town or elsewhere. Its low seat height 780 mm - immediately gives you confidence and its comfortable seat and retractable footrests provide an optimal level of comfort travelling solo or as a twosome. Peugeot, with typical concern for its clients, has equipped the Kisbee with 170 mm disc brakes on the front wheel so you can go about your everyday journeys with total peace of mind.

Adopt A Meerkat £19.95 | T: 0844 2495 007 www.prezzybox.com

Driving Song Secrets Revealing research published today shows that millions of male motorists will happily swap their stereotypical driving music for 'chick hits'... when on their own in the car. One in five men (20%) confessed that when alone in their vehicle they enjoy nothing more than singing along to a bit of Shirley Bassey, WHAM! or Take That. And 71% even admit to enjoying a bit of false falsetto (such as the Bee Gees' Stayin' Alive) while waiting for the lights to change. The study of almost 3,000 British motorists also showed that there are plenty of women (17%) who love to belt out their versions of 'macho classics' from the likes of The Clash and Thin Lizzy in their car-aoke sessions. The research by sporty Spanish car maker SEAT revealed that 14% of men and 11% of women admit to having embarrassing 'closet' musical tastes that they indulge only in the car. A surprising 12% of men admitted they will sing along to show tunes like Don't Cry for Me, Argentina if alone, one in four will join in with a Take That tune and 26% can't resist an Abba singalong. Other 'secret' listening statistics include 15% of men humming along to Kylie, 29% to Robbie Williams, 14% to the Spice Girls, 13% to Erasure and 12% to Britney. Women, too, will abandon their traditional love of Robbie Williams or Abba for something much rockier if they are behind the wheel with no-one else on board.

By adopting a meerkat, you are assisting Meerkat Magic, the only conservation project in the world which seeks to protect wild meerkats. Discover all about meerkats and then simply register the gift by following the instructions. A meerkat photograph and a personalised supporter certificate will follow in the post. You will also be eligible for money off a Meerkat Magic tour! As an official supporter, you will also receive regular updates directly from Meerkat Magic.

Inside the gift box: •Welcome letter •Your gift explained •Gift registration instructions •The Magic of Meerkats booklet •Meerkat Magic and the Meerkat Man. •Meerkat Magic Tours After registration: You will receive a meerkat photograph and a personalised supporter certificate, dispatched within 28 days of the registration details being received. You will also receive newsletters directly from Meerkat Magic, giving the latest news of its projects, achievements and conservation plans for the future. Simples!

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inToro Skins from £9.99 | www.intoroskins.co.uk The Football season has well and truly kicked off this month and what better way to show your allegiance by displaying your favourite team colours through exclusive Football skins. inToro Skins are the first company in the UK to exclusively manufacture and distribute officially licensed football skins. The skins are made from high quality vinyl, specially designed to cover your mobile phone, iPod or games console. They are ultra thin with high definition

print quality and come with a 3 year warranty. Currently inToro have official skins for Liverpool FC and Tottenham Hotspurs but it won't be long until fans can order skins featuring Arsenal FC, Manchester City and West Ham United designs. Each skin is official merchandise so you can be assured that your favourite team will benefit from your loyalty too. Prices start from just £9.99. Football skins are currently available for BlackBerry 8900, iPod Classic 5th Gen, iPod Touch 2nd/3rd Gen, iPhone 3G/S, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Xbox/PS3 controllers.

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zebra BER SEPTEM

Cross Personal Agenda Our competition prize this month is a Cross Personal Agenda kindly donated by Cross on Cheshire Oaks. You can get hold of this scrumptious handful of leather loveliness by telling us what phase of Cheshire Oaks is the Cross shop in. Entries must be in by the 20th September and the winner will be selected at random from all the entries. comp@zebramag.co.uk | 0151 651 0201 20 Balls Road, Oxton, CH43 5RE Competition prize pictured below. Colour may vary.

FOOD & DRINK

CROMWELL’S EARTHY FOOD

.............................................................................. DIANE TREMARCO When you have cooked for Jason Orange and Princess Anne your ego should be fit to burst, but the owners of Cromwells Restaurant are as grounded as the carrots they grow. Kay and Kate and in fact Cromwells Restaurant are on the move, with the reputation they built in Irby heading North East to Wallasey. The ladies are very proud of the fact that everything they cook is sourced locally, even hand picking the meat that they serve. Flavour and freshness in abundance mainly comes from their garden produce and at this very moment there are twenty butternut squash, carrots and runner beans, fighting to be selected for your enjoyment. At the tender age of eighteen Kate became the Britain’s youngest head chef of the Boddington’s chain of breweries at the Moby Dick in West Kirby. She left Wirral Metropolitan College with a distinction and to this day her passion for food and cooking has never diminished. At home there is always something in the oven and something food related on the television. With Kay’s horticultural background and Kate’s food obsession their union is the perfect recipe for culinary perfection. Cromwells new restaurant will demonstrate their passion and honesty; the kitchen will be on full view to allow guests to see how their food is prepared. There is more space and a dedicated party room upstairs to seat twenty. When booking your celebration you will be given a free birthday cake and balloons. The extra space will also allow Kate to carry on with her much loved cookery lessons, a project she began at their old restaurant and one that reiterates her passion and dedication to her craft. If you'd like an indication of just how good this restaurant will be, take a look at some of the testimonials from their old restaurant:

“My partner and I took our mum's to Cromwells last week for a special Mothering Sunday lunch. We enjoyed a delicious, beautifully presented meal (using locally sourced ingredients) in a smart but relaxed and friendly environment. Because we booked via Twitter, we received a free bottle of wine (a very pleasant Italian red) and we also won a £10 voucher for next time - and there will definitely be a next time. I can thoroughly recommend Cromwells traditional Sunday lunches. For starters I had the Black Pudding Topper with Apples and Peppercorn Sauce; my main course was Leek & Stilton Freerange Chicken Breast and for the sweet I had Continental Chocolate Pudding with a Hot chocolate Fudge Sauce. Gorgeous!” Paula B-H, Chester From the minute you walk in you are made to feel very welcome. The Menu makes it rather tricky to decide what you want... a great selection of starters ranging from soup to more adventurous delights makes you sometimes feel like trying the lot! The Soup is never ordinary soup! The Main courses are even more difficult to choose from.. every one is worthy of eating. Homemade fishcakes..... Turkey & Mushroom pie... Mixed Grill... all wonderful ! And how can I not mention the wine menu... and beer! Peroni... Great food, a lovely drink or too and then there is the warm welcome and friendly feel of the place. I have eaten at many restaurants over the years.... and Cromwell's rates in my top 5 of all time. Value for money... and all I have mentioned above... but

maybe above all else it is nice to know you are always made to feel welcome and you will not be disappointed. A top class restaurant on my door step almost... perfect :-) There are of course other features and highlights .. but you'll have to find out for yourselves! Dave Parsons, Wirral As we have now been here several times we have eaten quite a few of the different dishes & can truthfully say that the quality is outstanding. In fact if you look down the restaurant you can see the food being prepared - always comforting to see. Where Cromwells really scores highly for us is the service. Genuinely attentive & friendly nothing is too much trouble. This really adds to the dining experience & why we keep going back. This is the type of place you could quite happily go to for a bite to eat or a special occasion. It really does rank as one of the best & well worth a wander off the beaten track. Pete and Kim, Oxton, Wirral Elegant style, charming relaxed atmosphere, fabulous food, great value. @Robbelaw, Wirral

Opening m id Septembe r be sure to , book your place early.

Just little mini versions of goodness, so they can be just like mummy and daddy! Produced with local, fresh ingredients in exactly the same way, no frozen, microwave food here. Kids will be attended first and their main is served as you are receiving your starter. Many friends with children gave Cromwells the idea, as they have learnt unoccupied children at dinner are a struggle. If they are eating before you are, this gives you time to get them sorted, and then enjoy your meal when it arrives. Everyone is happy!

DOUBLE YOUR MONEY!

ON THE NEW A LA CARTE MENU FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT... www.cromwellsrestaurant.co.uk

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MEAL FOR FREE!

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KIDS EAT A FULL 3 COURSE

WIRRAL TWEET UP “Wirral tweet up” which usually happens quarterly, is where people who have only ever spoke on twitter meet for real. They have some nibbles and a laugh, but then get down to business and raise money for charity “Adventure Farm” at the same time, which provides respite for disabled children, and their families. The charity is not funded, so Kay and Kate enjoy helping this association along.

FOOD & DRINK

WINETO DINE

TIPPLES OF THE MONTH

Style: Aromatic whites Varieties: Gewürztraminer ABV: 14%

Closure: Screwcap Style: Crisp, dry whites Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc

Origin: Australia Closure: Screwcap Style: Full and fruity reds Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon ABV: 14.5%

This wine was a winner in the 2009 Top Vins de Pays competition and tastes much better than the Best Red in Show for a fraction of the price! It has wonderfully spicy, perfumed Syrah fruit and an elegant softness and roundness which mark it out as a wine of quality. Origin: France Closure: Natural Cork Style: Rich, spicy reds Varieties: Syrah or Shiraz ABV: 13.5%

£8.99 Winemaker, Patricia Atkinson's, Clos d'Yvigne, is a small vineyard with a large reputation; situated on the beautiful ridge of hills that run along the left side of the Dordogne between Sainte Foy la Grande and Bergerac. From 100% Merlot, fresh raspberries, strawberries and cream attack the palate, complimented by a refreshing, crisp acidity. This elegant wine a must on a hot summer's evening. Origin: France Closure: Natural Cork

Sancerre Rosé Domaine des Clairneaux 2009 Jean-Marie Berthier £12.99 From the northernmost village of Sancerre, Ste-Gemme, comes this light, fresh and elegant rosé. Offering up fantastic structure and minerality on both nose and palate, the fresh, summer fruit flavours are perfectly balanced. Excellent as an aperitif or with summer salads. Origin: France Closure: Synthetic Cork Style: Dry rosés Varieties: Pinot Noir

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Closure: Screwcap

Origin: New Zealand

From the Limestone Coast in South Australia, this Cabernet benefits from the longer growing season provided by the moderating influence of the sea. This all helps maximise ripeness and fruit purity in the wine which is displayed by the rich cassis fruit, plum and a little black olive character.

£8.99

Clos d'Yvigne Bel Ami Rosé 2008 Bergerac

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Origin: New Zealand

The Vavasour displays an expressive nose of tropical fruit, melon and citrus, with underlying mineral notes on the palate. Crisp, dry and fullflavoured, this refreshing wine exhibits all the hallmarks of a great Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

£7.99

Domaine les Yeuses 'Les Epices' Syrah 2007/2008 Vin de Pays d'Oc

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An intense, tropical fruit laden wine, full of concentrated flavours of orange zest and lychee, embellished with floral notes on the nose and a delicate yet slightly unctuous texture. The off-dry, apéritif style really emphasises the wine's refreshing fruitiness, and is a marvellous match for spicy foods such as Thai curry or sweet and sour dishes.

£9.99

Chalk Spring Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Limestone Coast

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£11.99

Vavasour Sauvignon Blanc 2008/2009 Marlborough

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Waimea Estate Gewürztraminer 2009 Nelson

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FOOD & DRINK

Style: Crisp, dry whites Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc ABV: 14%

Origin: USA Closure: Screwcap Style: Full, oaky whites Varieties: Chardonnay ABV: 13.5%

Origin: France Closure: Synthetic Cork Style: Dry rosés Varieties: Pinot Noir

A lovely example of Syrah grown in a cool climate, this wine from Chile's Casablanca Valley achieves a balance between power and lightness of fruit. Deep plummy red in colour, with aromas of cinnamon and red berries. The palate has plenty of concentration, but the tannins are soft and yielding. Origin: Chile Closure: Natural Cork Style: Rich, spicy reds Varieties: Syrah

£12.99 From the northernmost village of Sancerre, Ste-Gemme, comes this light, fresh and elegant rosé. Offering up fantastic structure and minerality on both nose and palate, the fresh, summer fruit flavours are perfectly balanced. Excellent as an aperitif or with summer salads. Origin: France Closure: Synthetic Cork Style: Dry rosés Varieties: Pinot

Sancerre Rosé 2009 Domaine Roger Neveu £12.99 Roger Neveu's excellent rosé displays an attractive ruby-red colour and aromas of red fruits supporting a rich, well-balanced structure obtained by partial oak barrel vinification. Made for early drinking. Origin: France Closure: Natural Cork Style: Dry rosés Varieties: Pinot Noir ABV: 13.5%

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Closure: Natural Cork

From the northernmost village of Sancerre, Ste-Gemme, comes this light, fresh and elegant rosé. Offering up fantastic structure and minerality on both nose and palate, the fresh, summer fruit flavours are perfectly balanced. Excellent as an aperitif or with summer salads.

£12.49

Sancerre Rosé Domaine des Clairneaux 2009 Jean-Marie Berthier

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Origin: France

An excellent example of Carneros Chardonnay, notes of pears, apricots and melon are complemented on the palate by richer flavours of vanilla and hazelnuts. Full bodied and creamy, the finish is superb. The ideal wine to drink with rich chicken dishes, especially caesar salads.

£12.99

Novas Winemaker's Selection Syrah 2007 Casablanca Valley

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Textbook Sancerre from probably the very best producer in the region. Fabulously aromatic nose, concentrated gooseberry fruit flavours, all carefully balanced by a rich smokiness. Sancerre at its most elegant.

£16.99

Sancerre Rosé Domaine des Clairneaux 2009 Jean-Marie Berthier

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£16.99

Saintsbury Chardonnay 2007 Carneros

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Sancerre Blanc 2008/2009 Domaine Vacheron

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FOOD & DRINK

Getting saucy with...

Fennel

Not only does fennel provide high aromatic flavour and serve as a great accompaniment to many meals, it has medical uses too. When mixed with sodium bicarbonate, sugar and water it serves to ease infants aching teeth, subduing the pain. Chronic coughs are said to be soothed by a blend of fennel tea (made simply by pouring boiling water onto a teaspoon of bruised fennel seeds). Throughout history fennel has played a part in day to day living. it was regarded as the herb of sight by the ancient Romans and in fact today in parts of India the seeds are eaten raw to improve eye sight. It is also rumoured that fennel can improve the breast milk of a new mother by increasing milk supply giving the best start to her baby. While in Greek mythology, Prometheus was said to have used the stalk of a fennel plant to steal fire from

the Gods to give back to mankind. Now it’s only claim to fame is sitting as a fine herb in the vegetable section of your local supermarket. The Florence fennel is more aromatic and sweeter than the original and in the form of a bulb. The most interesting use for this type of fennel is the part it plays in the making of Absinthe, a highly alcoholic beverage. This was extremely popular in France amongst other countries by the late 19th Century. Fennel was one of three herbs used to prepare the drink. Actress Jennifer Garner (known for her roles in 13 going on 30 and Valentine’s day), has spoke on many occasions about how she likes to involve fennel in her diet where and when she can. Saying it not only tastes great but it has health benefits too as it is an easy ingredient to add into recipes whilst detoxing.

It has never been easier to grow your own fennel, all you need is your own patch of soil in the garden. Large bulbs are the best for braising, and for most successful results sow deep into the ground to avoid disturbance, as the roots are extremely sensitive. This will help to produce a fuller bulb. Avoid slugs at all costs, especially during the seeding stage as they will attack at every opportunity. The only other enemy to be faced is the frost, so keep well protected. This versatile herb may be just the thing to add that “something extra” to a meal, it can transform an ordinary fish or chicken dish into something memorable. Remember to experiment with different ingredients to discover what you like, and what you definitely don’t!

Fennel is packed with powerful antioxidants that help to fight off the free radicals within the body. It is a good source of niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium, foliate and a very good source of dietary fibre and vitamin C. Fennel is used to provide relief from digestive disorders, cramps and also acid indigestion.

Why not try and make your very own Fennel Sauce, an ideal accompaniment to fish especially sea bass, follow this easy recipe, 20 minutes to make...

Ingredients: 2 cups of cream ½ cup of white wine 1 fennel bulb 1 medium shallot 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped 1 oz of soft cream cheese 2 tbsp of butter 1 tbsp of dill 1 tbsp of white flour ½ tbsp of Herbes de Provence Freshly grated Nutmeg Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: Remove the core of the Fennel bulb and roughly chop the Fennel and Shallot and pop into the food processor, pulse until both are very finely minced. Heat a saucepot with the butter over a medium heat, add the minced vegetables and cook until they are tender and translucent, usually takes around 3-5 minutes, and be careful not to brown. Remove the vegetables, put them in a bowl and set aside. Using the same pan, add an additional tbsp of butter and melt. Mix in the flour and cook until barely golden and again do not brown! Whisk in the white wine and stir until the mixture has completely incorporated into liquid and there are no lumps remaining. Add the cream and cream cheese and stir until the cream cheese has melted thoroughly, making the sauce. Return the vegetables to the pot and fold in the cream sauce, along with the Herbes de Provence and freshly grated nutmeg. Season to taste with salt and pepper and allow to simmer over a low heat for around 10-15 minutes, or until sauce is of desired consistency. If the sauce begins to get too thick, just add small amounts of cream or milk as you desire. ENJOY!

Researched by Nicolé Simmons.

FOOD & DRINK

NEWS

FOOD AND DRINK Kids Entertained with GUSTO! It is never easy keeping kids entertained in restaurants, the temptation for them to go wandering off is often hard for them to resist. To help parents keep the little ones entertained GUSTO Restaurant and Bar have introduced a new way of keeping their offspring entertained while they are dining in their restaurants.

parents too! GUSTO restaurants now have the consoles, they are certainly occupying kids so the adults get a chance to relax and enjoy themselves.

Each GUSTO is now equipped with Apple iTouch consoles pre loaded with games suitable for kids ranging from 4 – 14 and they are even fitted with parental locks, so they are completely safe! The consoles were piloted in GUSTO in Alderley Edge and proved very popular with kids of all ages and with

Ice Bag Cherry £4.99 | www.drinkstuff.com Tired of having to keep your champagne and wine bottles stuck in a stationary ice bucket? Well, now you can carry your favourite tipple with you wherever you go! Ideal for parties, just distribute a few Ice Bags to your guests and let them refill their own drinks when their thirst gets the better of them! The water-tight construction allows you to fill this stylish carry bag with ice and water, so when you introduce your bottle, it will remain chilled! If you fancy moving around and mingling with other people, all you have to do is pick up your Ice Bag and be on your way!

HALLIGANS CAFÉ RESTAURANT

GUSTO HESWALL

If you want to catch up with friends for lunch or fancy a coffee with mum and dad. Maybe you need to book a romantic meal for two or you would like an intimate venue for a celebration. Perhaps you want to dine with wine or simply wish to grab tea and cake. If you demand good food there is only one place to go, Halligans Café Restaurant. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am till 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm till late.

GUSTO Heswall is situated on the main street of the busy, bustling “top” village, sitting along side a wide variety of shops and just a short stroll from the quieter and quaint lower village. The restaurant and bar has a fabulous sun terrace on which to dine or simply sip a chilled beer to end the day, whilst the interior is truely magical, made really special by the 200 year old olive trees growing down the centre of the restaurant.

5 Rosemount, Oxton, CH43 5SG T: 0151 670 0446 www.halligansoxton.com

146 Telegraph Road, CH60 0AH T: 0151 342 9550 www.gustorestaurants.uk.com

Amici RED DOOR This stylish bar is an eclectic hybrid of a traditional pub, which meets cool classic New York loft style. An extensive wine and cocktail menu, is complimented by a food menu which has been designed for sharing. A selection of small plates served tapas style runs alongside top quality burgers and sandwiches. The chilled vibe from this cool neighbourhood bar and kitchen should be a welcome addition to the seaside town of West Kirby. Grange Road, WKirby CH48 4DY T: 0151 929 6380 www.reddoor.uk.com

Coffee Cake Glass of Wine Breakfast Lunch Wi Fi access Acacia Grove, West Kirby CH48 4DD

T: 0151 625 7555

FOOD & DRINK

Lattetude Gluten Free Recipe & Supper Club ALWAYS THE FIRST TUESDAY IN THE MONTH FROM 6.30PM Feel free to join us at Lattetude for our recipe & supper club.

Just to remind you that the next Supper Club is Tuesday 1st August and Kelly will be serving Homemade Gluten Free Fish & Chips with dessert to follow. Please call Lattetude (0151 625 3986) for full details.

The club is free for anyone to come along to and whether it’s just for a chat and to get a new recipe or meet some new friends and enjoy a gluten free meal it’s up to you! Each meeting is designed for you to be able to chat, relax and pick up helpful advice for whatever reason you’re following a gluten free diet. To book call in or phone 0151 625 3986 or just pop in on the night. We look forward to meeting you.

Gin & Titonic Ice Tray £5.98 | www.drinkstuff.com We believe this to be possibly our best find this month. With moulds for 4 Titanic style ships, and 4 ice bergs, the Gin & Titonic Ice Tray helps you create a novelty scene in every glass! Just fill up the tray with water, put it in the freezer for a few hours and you'll have your very own navy to help your party sail smoothly! • Unique ice tray mould to create interesting drink coolers. • Silicone rubber tray with ship and iceberg pieces. • 4 Ship moulds, 4 Iceberg moulds. • Ideal for parties.

MINGVASE RESTAURANT

CROMWELL’S RESTAURANT

The management used their vast experience to carefully select a range of banquets to suit all appetites. This combined with their new extensive list of wines make certain that you have an enjoyable meal. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 5:30pm -11pm, Wednesday to Sunday 5:30am11pm, Friday 5:30am-11:30pm, Saturday 5:30pm-11:30pm.

Buy a voucher through our website. These are only going to be available online and until 30/09/10. We’ll double your voucher value if you use it against any purchase on the new A La Carte Menu up until the 30/11/09 (including drinks). After this date the vouchers will no longer be doubled up, but still vaild. If you don’t spend the balance of your voucher in one visit, it’ll carry over to the next & you can use them against full or part payment of your final bill. (new address from opening) 265 Wallasey Village CH45 3LR www.cromwellsrestaurant.co.uk

385 Woodchurch Road Birkenhead, CH42 8PF T: 0151 608 2306

20% OFF ALL FOOD & DRINK Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

SLIMMING WORLD MEALS AVAILABLE

Vanilla Lounge 6 Market Street, Hoylake, CH47 2AE T: 0151 633 2390 | www.vanillalounge.co.uk

September Salsa 1 Onion (medium) Fresh Red Chilli (Â˝ Or 1cm Length) 1 Clove Fresh Garlic 50g Chopped Fresh Coriander Salt (Pinch To Taste) 1floz Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 Medium Sized Yellow Pepper 100ml Pasata Fresh Ground Black Pepper (5 turns of the mill)

EQUIPMENT: Chopping board, chopping knife, storage container with a tight fitting lid

STORAGE: refrigerator

SHELF LIFE: 3 days

SENSITIVITY: Do not allow the pepper seed to get into the salsa. Do not over portion the chilli it will increase in intensity with time. Salsa is best made 24hrs in advance so the flavours can infuse.

10 minutes

PROCEDURE: 1. Collect all your equipment & ingredients before you start & ensure you have enough time to complete the whole task. 2. Remove the core & cut the tomato's in half, remove all the seeds, cut into 1/2cm dice & pour into the mixing bowl, peel the onion & finely dice into 1/2cm dice 3. Cut the peppers in half length ways & remove the seeds & stalk. Ensure all the seeds are removed, bang the pepper open side into your hand to remove any stubborn seeds.

4. Cut the peppers into 1/2cm dice the same size as the onion, pick & roughly chop the coriander, finely chop the chilli. 5. Place the chopped onion, pepper, chilli, salt, pepper, olive oil & coriander into the bowl with the tomatoes & combine evenly. 6. Place in the fridge, ensure you cover tightly or you will have a stinky fridge.

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8 Ripe Vine Tomato's

PRODUCTION TIME:

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INGREDIENTS:

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From the Red Door, West Kirby.

HOMES & INTERIORS

the front room etc...

50% SALE

END OF SEASON

FURTHER REDUCTIONS IN-STORE 82 banks road, west kirby | t: 0151 625 6255 | www.thefrontroom.net

THE DRESSING ROOM

Vintage style gifts and accessories for you and your home. 50 Christchurch Rd Oxton, CH43 5SF T: 0151 652 8452 www.drawingroom-oxton.co.uk

HOMES & INTERIORS

TOXICWATER?

A GUIDE TO YOUR LEAD WATER MAINS .......................................................................................... LES BONE There are many properties in and around Wirral that have been built before 1970 and therefore stand a pretty big chance of having lead water main pipes. For those who are unsure there are a few simple tests you can carry out.

DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS FOR RELIABLE, FRIENDLY AND SPECIALIST ADVICE CALL FOR A CONSULTATION.

FOR ALL DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS THINK 1,2,3... 1. FAST 2. AFFORDABLE 3.PROFESSIONAL CALL RHG AFFORDABLE DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS

PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL

24 HOUR CALLOUT 0800 876 6697 - 07951 693 725

01516539500 www.rhgrouponline.com

Inside your home Look for your internal stop tap. This is most likely to be under your kitchen sink. You may also need to look in other places, e.g. in your bathroom or under your stairs. Once you have found this, scrape its surface gently with a knife. unpainted lead pipes are dull grey and soft, copper pipes will be bright, hard and dull brown, steel pipes will be dark, very hard and may be rusty and plastic pipes may be black, blue or grey.

Outside your home Open the flap of the stop valve outside your property. Clean out the stop tap box then examine the pipe leading from the stop tap to the property. If you can, scrape its surface gently with a knife. It may not be possible to do this in some cases as access may be difficult. Your lead water supply pipe can restrict the flow of water to your property resulting in low water pressure. The maximum amount of water your supply pipe can carry will be affected by its internal diameter. Leaks from old lead water supply pipes or fittings will also reduce the water pressure. Lead is a toxic metal and can build up in the body. Children up to 6 years of age and pregnant women are the most susceptible to any adverse health effects from the accumulation of lead. These health effects include Hearing problems, headaches, learning difficulties, high blood pressure and nerve disorders. Lead comes from many sources, such as car exhausts and old paint work. It may be naturally present in air, food, soil and in water. Lead can be harmful to health, especially for young children and unborn babies. The water from our treatment works supplied through our mains to the boundary of properties contains virtually no lead. But the water can dissolve tiny amounts of lead from the inside of lead supply pipes and internal plumbing. As a result, the water coming out of your pipe may contain more lead than the drinking water standards allow. If you think your property's internal pipe work or supply pipe is made of lead, we advise you to consider replacing them. RHG are a local firm with vast experience in all drainage issues. They specialise in lead water main replacement and are only a phone call away to offer advice and resolution to any problems you are facing. Les Bone, Operations Manager for RH Group (UK) Ltd.

Homewares Home Autumn www.heatonsstores.com

Jewel cushion £8 Matalan

Jeff & Co glass vase £25 Matalan

Jeff Banks Ports of Call 5 £14.99

Jeff Banks Ports of Call 3 £6.99

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen black glass vase £22 Matalan

1. 2.

MAKING

A STATEMENT

5. 4.

If your creating a simple scheme, say a black and white room, it will look all the more stylish if you use a single colour to emphasise the drama. Just a couple of carefully selected pieces will create the desired effect

3. 6.

Linda Barker framed metal wall art £25 Memories photo frame £12 Eiffel tower metal ornament £15 Dancer metal ornament £15 Laurence Llewelyn Bowen black metallic chenille cushion £12 Laurence Llewlyn Bowen black and gold jacquard cushion £12 Black scatter cushion £8 Black paisley cushion £8 Mini jewelled cushion £8 Laurence Llewelyn Bowen black embroidered chenille throw £25 Etched glass vase £25 Hamish doorstop £8 Matalan

HOMES & INTERIORS

WOMENS FASHION

KIRSTY DOYLE TAILORED TRENDS

...................................................................................................................................................................................................... KIRSTY DOYLE One of the key trends for this season is chic, powerful and ultra feminine workwear. As we spend most of our time at work, it is not surprising the majority of our wardrobes are filled with clothes to make you feel strong and confident in the office. The Autumn/Winter 2010 runway shows were awash with long length trousers teamed with feminine blouses reminiscent of the sleek, confident Charlie’s girls of the 1970’s. This is a trend that suits any shape and any budget, with high waisted trousers to make torsos look tiny and legs look endless, capes to casually throw across shoulders, loose blouses in luxurious materials gathered at the waist and tailored jackets cinched in at the waist with skinny belts. The key item for this look is a great pair of tailored trousers, with wide leg cuts being the dominant trend. Already one of our best sellers in store for the new season are the Kirsty Doyle sailor trouser in navy with wide legs and fitted waist, to slim the silhouette and create the illusion of longer legs (£245 www.kirsty-doyle.com). It is well worth investing in these trousers in a good quality to fabric that will last for years and that can take you from day to evening. For a real on-trend look, go for camel coloured fabrics. This season camel has been everywhere, ushering in a new era of stealth wealth, this is a classic colour that will never date. Although camel can be worn in any guise, it looks best on trousers and coats. If you are looking to spend a little more on that perfect outfit for an important career move, look no further than designers such as Stella McCartney and Celine, who are single-handlely transforming the working womans wardrobe. Their tailored jackets are investment pieces that you will have forever, taking you from season to season, becoming a treasured wardrobe staple. The high street is filled with great pieces at the moment, so take advantage of the timeless nature of this season and invest in wardrobe staples. Reiss and Whistles have a fantastic selection of affordable, good quality and well tailored pieces that can act as the foundation for any working womans wardrobe for years to come.

WOMENS FASHION

ACCESSORIES BOLD & BEAUTIFUL

1. Patent Mary Janes £100 KURT GEIGER at CHESHIRE OAKS. | 2. Total Eclipse Cuff £380 LARA BOHINC at BENNA.CO.UK. | 3. Daria Hobo Bag £595 MULBERRY at CHESHIRE OAKS. | 4. Silver Bee £115 ALEX MONROE at BENNA.CO.UK. | 5. Flash Silver Watch £112 CK JEANS at CHESHIRE OAKS. | 6. Wing Hoops £120 ZOE & MORGAN at BENNA.CO.UK. | 7. Leather Filofax £352 MULBERRY at CHESHIRE OAKS. | 8. Total Eclipse Earrings LARA BOHINC £285 at BENNA.CO.UK. | 9. Serpent Headband £237 JENNIFER BEHR at CHESHIRE OAKS.

WOMENS FASHION

BITSAND PIECES ACCESSORIES TO DIE FOR

Chocolate and stone, plum and berry, suede, leather and studs. Of course these designs aren’t for everyone, but once diluted and on the high street, they’re available and affordable for us all. One trend that I love and is usually reinvented and re-worked each season is military. Long buttoned coats and boots, caps with peacoats. One of the key items this season is the long napa Burberry cavalry boot. The downside is you need Giselle like limbs to fit inside, the upside is wait a month or two and the high street will have brought out a more forgiving version! To complete the look you’ll need some gold, rose, yellow, brass whichever. If we’re talking designer then Lara bohinc has brought out some amazing pieces such as the Lunar cuff and the crusade shoe, but whatever you wear make it gold. Vintage pieces are now rare as hens teeth to find and expensive to boot, fetching near enough the same price as new items. You can find items in Harvey Nichols and Browns who have a clientele wanting something no one else has. My advice… save up for a new one or make friends with a stylish granny.

TWISTED SLATE HEADBAND BY JENNIFER BEHR £302 BABY DIAMOND STUDS LAURA LEE £225

LARA BOHINC APOLLO SHOE £435

If classic isn’t for you and that seems a little bit dull maybe animal prints are your thing. A look that’s still live and kicking, and a great one to invest in to liven up your wardrobe. If you’re not watching your pennies some key items to buy into this trend would be Louboutin pony skin ankle boots, a skinny leopardskin belt and a pauric sweeny metallic lizard overnight bag. Well yes ok it’s still subtle, but we are talking accessories and sometimes less is just so much more. The list of trends for this season is a long list, frills, embellishment, geek chic. But my final word is a word of warning, there are also some horrific items out there like Jimmy choo metallic wellington boots, Versace platforms similar to Elton john’s stage attire circa 1977 and my favourite a bruno frisoni furred ankle boot that bears more than a passing resemblence to a yehti’s foot. Leave these on the shelves and run!...

DIAMOND AMOUR BY BENNA £1300

LARA BOHINC THE CRUSADE SHOE BOOTS

SERPENT HEADBAND BY JENNIFER BEHR £237

LARA BOHINC MORGANA SHOE £470

Earrings Lara Bohinc £285 Cuff by Lara Bohinc £380

Ava shell clutch by rocio £450 Vintage sweetheart necklace by annina vogel £1200 Love ring by zoe and morgan £85 Gold bow ring annina vogel £250

Earrings Assya £95 Yes ring by Zoe And Morgan £85 Single stone bangles by Assya £29

Miltary Cardingan £18.00, Trousers £18.00, Bag £8.00, Riding Boots, £40.00, Sainsburys Tu Clothing

NATURAL NEUTRAL Camel is definitely this seasons favourite and is fresh alternative to black. From the classic hue to every other shade of beige nearly every designer sported some camel on the catwalks.

Leather Worker boot. £30.00 Primark

Call for details T: 0151 651 0201

Plait Neck Belted Bardot Jumper. £38.00 Jane Norman

Camel Fur Coat £55 New Look

HAIR & BEAUTY

TOPTIPS

FIVE STEPS TO BEAUTIFUL SKIN

DEVANEY MEDICAL CENTRE

..................................................................................... ANNE ROBERTS

1. Water A glass of mineral water first thing in the morning is a wonderful way to greet the day. Chemical changes in our bodies take place in the presence of water. To successfully allow nutrients in and waste out, we need to be well hydrated. A dehydrated body encourages the development of ageing; resulting in puffiness, dry skin and loss of radiance. Keep it up during the day and you will reap the benefits.

Devaney Medical Centre is based at 40 Balls Road Oxton. We are a ground floor level, purpose built medical centre serving a population of 8300 patients. We are open from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday. To offer an even more flexible service to our patients we have chosen to open on Saturday mornings too from 8.00am until 12.00 for prebooked GP and nurse appointments. We are also very proud to be involved in training the "doctors of the future" at both undergraduate level and at post graduate level.

2. Face Changing Foods If your goal is radiant, firm & glowing skin, energy in abundance, mental clarity and an overall sense of feeling great, these foods are for you. Their unique combinations of healthy fats, high quality protein, probiotics and antioxidant rich carbohydrates help to fight against wrinkles, sagging and loss of tone; • Salmon, sardines, anchovies, herring, mackerel and other cold water fish • Free-range poultry • Eggs from free-range chickens

The doctors at Devaney Medical Centre are :Dr James Bates MBChB Liverpool 1985 MSC FPC Dip Cardiology– Dr Bates has a special interest in Cardiac Medicine and in addition to his General Practice works as a GPwSI (GP with a Special Interest) in the Heart Centre . Dr Elizabeth Charles - MBChB Liverpool 1994 DRCOG DFFP– Dr Charles has a special interest in Children's Health & Development (Paediatrics) , Women's Health & Family Planning Dr Clare Metcalfe - MBChB Liverpool 1994 MRCPCH MRCGP – Dr Metcalfe has a special interest in Children's Health & Development (Paediatrics) , Women's Health & Family Planning. Dr Peter Nuttall MBChB Liverpool 1987 DRCOG – Dr Nuttall has a special interest in psychology and psychiatric medicine. He has recently been working with the Wirral Drugs Service and in the Practice helps patients come off tranquilizers and other drugs of addiction. Dr David Stokoe MB CHB FPC Liverpool 1985 – Dr Stokoe has a special interest in Diabetic Medicine and also works as a clinical assistant in Endocrinology

• Grass-fed, free-range beef or lamb, naturally low in saturated fats • Complex carbohydrates such as leafy greens, broccoli and oatmeal • Healthy fats such as avocadoes, olives, extra virgin olive oil, nuts and seeds • Fresh fruits such as berries, apples and melon and lastly, limit junk and fast foods!

3. Clean Skin Cleanliness is the foundation of healthy, radiant skin, but don’t overdo it and strip skin of its natural pH balance. It is essential to use good quality cleansing and exfoliating products to preserve the skin’s youthful radiance. Choose cleansers & exfoliators that are gentle and formulated for your skin type, to suit your lifestyle and taste. Skin should feel and look clean, soft, supple and radiant. Avoid harsh scrubs which can cause inflammation of the skin. A regular, relaxing facial can do wonders for the soul, as well as the skin.

4. Sleep BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT AT DEVANEY MEDICAL CENTRE Devaney Medical Centre are proud to have introduced a new method of appointment booking that offers more flexibility to patients. Patients can telephone the surgery from 6.00am through until 10.45pm seven days per week to book their doctors appointments – so no repeated telephoning at 8.30am and getting the engaged tone! If you give us your mobile number you'll also get a FREE appointment confirmation and also a FREE appointment reminder too. We also offer online appointment booking and online repeat prescription ordering.

Get enough sleep – at least seven hours. Adequate sleep will restore luminosity to the skin while improving tone and texture. When we do not get enough sleep, our eyes will appear puffy, bags and dark circles will appear under the eyes, and fine lines and an unhealthy pallor will greet us in the morning. During the waking hours, stress can play havoc with our skin; it is only during the hours of sleep that we can undo these damaging effects. It is also during the valuable hours of sleep that our cells rejuvenate, repairing damage of the previous day. In fact, one of the best-kept antiaging secrets is a good night’s sleep.

We are currently offering FREE NHS HEALTH CHECKS for patients registered with us. These checks offer our patients the opportunity to find out their risk of developing cardiovascular disease. We are also currently taking bookings for our registered patients to have their flu vaccinations We offer appointments for these during the week & on Saturday mornings too.

5. Go Green Enjoy a cup of green tea after your meal. There is a compound in green tea called Ltheanine that acts as a natural mood elevator and promote feelings of well-being. Because green tea is rich in antioxidants, it can help fight inflammation and ageaccelerating free radicals, boost the body’s natural defences, and has anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects.

HAIR & BEAUTY

NUDETO NIGHT TWO GREAT LOOKS

FREE FALL

AUTUMN STYLING

........................................................................................ KATE EUGENI

...................................................................................CHRISTINE LESLEY

The catwalks this year have been full of neutrals which pay homage to the fresh, faced beauty of the 90’s. Think Cindy Crawford not the grunge of Kate Moss. Add a twist of polish that evokes throw backs to Jackie O and the ladies of Mad Men and you will be just on the button.

September’s here already. The kids are back at school, the nights are drawing in and the Xfactor’s started, this could mean only one thing, it’s the countdown to winter. Don’t despair, those of us who have sun damaged faded hair colour, it’s but a good trim and conditioning treatment away.

So how do the ladies of 2010 get it right when juggling with so many decades of fashion in make up? Think of nude lips married with sultry dark shadow or nude eyes with strong berry lips. Never ever do both.

There’s nothing more exciting than looking forward to what the new season has to offer. So, now we need to rock the red carpet and get a bit of glamour back in our lives. Autumn/winter is dictating high crowns, flirty shorties, mega fringe’s and plaits. The fifties influence is making it’s way into the season, it’s oozing sensuality, sleek rippling curls that you can personalize, be it chic or crazy.

Nude is one of the most difficult make up looks to achieve, not because you need flawless skin. That is not a necessity if you get your base right. Most girls get it wrong by thinking that nude is one colour, nude is your nude colour. I wish I had a pound for every client who thought that the most fashionable lip colour in nude should look good on them. What’s the trick? Look in the mirror, with a completely clean face and be honest about your natural lip colour. If you have a beautiful natural berry stained lip you will never be able to wear a pale cashmere. If you have a pale canvas to start with, a strong full berry with just look too vibrant against your skin tone. Choose a colour which matches your natural lip colour or one shade darker and you will have found your perfect nude. Clarins new collection has some fab neutrals to choose from. Eyes are a little easier as most skin tones can carry off a dark smouldering eye and a natural fresh eye. Just remember that if you go for the nude, natural look, you need lashings of mascara or your eyes will just have no framing. For a dark eye go for a feline Brigitte Bardot look. Sweep the eye socket with a good base colour, go to your makeup artist at a good counter it will be money well spent. I love Bone from Bobbi Brown and Mylar from MAC. Then choose your colour palette, just because it’s a dark eye it does not mean that you have to go black. Silver and greys can look striking and will just take the edge off the gothic look of black. Deep cocoa and bronze can also give the feel of a dark eye if you cannot carry off too dark around your eyes. A great kohl eye liner smudged around your eye, don’t line the whole eye as it will make your eye disappear, finish half way along your lower lid and smudge it out to the outer edge. Pale white kohl dabbed in the inner corner of your eye lid will make your eyes brighter.

Volume has been what the A listers have been dictating to us for what seems like a lifetime, but we need to ensure that we do it right. Even a crop can be volumised but ensure the results are soft not stiff. This can be acheived by a good volumising shampoo and conditioner, not too heavy or you will overload the hair. Apply styling products such as root lifter and thickening cream on mid length to ends. Velcro at roots rollers are an easy way to ensure your roots are lifted to the max. The size of a round blow drying brush is perfect. Roll into hair making sure you bring the roots forward as you roll. Get that biggy right on the crown, spray with hairspray, blast with a bit of heat and leave for up to 20 minutes. When removed try some slight backcombling at crown, it can work a treat. Blast some spray again and hey your catwalk cool. Let’s talk short. Carey Mulligan, Rihanna and Halle Berry prove it’s feminine, glamorous and it’s a hot look at the moment. It’s an ideal look for those that need low maintenance, like to live a fast life but feel they need to look good at all times. Bold colours with short hair are easily achieved as short hair takes to colour easier – It’s usually in much better condition and can add individuality to your look. Short hair doesn’t have to be a one style look, we are product junkies and the market is full of new and exciting creams, potions and lotions designed to give you the versatility to change your look as the mood takes you. Go easy on the conditioner as hair that is closer to the roots is more conditioned as it has not had the same age as longer hair and can become lank. Style using gels, clays and hairspray, try funky and quaffing that date look, this takes weight out through the hair enabling you to keep your layering slightly longer to keep it feminine. So wash, blast and wear or perk it up for that night on the town.

To finish off your 90’s revival, tame those eyebrows. Cindy and her supermodel pals all had fuller eyebrows however; they always had those stray hairs removed. Stop with the obsessive plucking and threading of the last few years and allow your natural face frame to grow back. I am not advocating the Brooke Shields The Chairman meets Rover and his new friends. bushy caterpillars however, get them neat and tidy and they will take years off your face.

And guys don’t just think glam is for the girls. Whether it’s shaved shorties or those collar length styles, keep it clean cut, always ensure you are free of that neck hair and those side boards are well groomed. Opt for a bit more colour to enhance hair holiday sun. Bleached hair can stay with you into the winter, or if feeling dry and dull this can help change your look without growing or cutting. Looking forward to feedback and any questions or problems you have with your hair. Have a glamorous September.

Contact kate@zebramag.co.uk

Contact christine@zebramag.co.uk

HAIR & BEAUTY

HAVEA HEART

EATYOURWAYTO...

........................................................................... DEVANEY MEDICAL CENTRE

....................................................................................JOANNE WILLCOX

Vascular diseases (Heart disease, Chronic Kidney Disease, Stroke, and Diabetes), are the biggest cause of death in the UK. In many cases the development of these diseases is linked to lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, alcohol consumption and exercise.

It’s a medical fact that high cholesterol levels are very bad for your heart, so anything we can do to lower our cholesterol is a good thing. Don’t get me wrong, I drool at the thought of a nice sausage roll, bag of cheese and onion, and bacon butty, just like the next person.

For patients aged 40 to 74 years an NHS Health Check at your Medical Centre can identify whether you may be at risk. A “Healthy Heart Check” will provide you with an assessment of your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Medical Centres can offer early intervention and can reduce the number of patients that suffer from one or more of these conditions, and thereby significantly improve quality of life and reduce the number of vascular disease related deaths.

In fact, after running 3 clinics, two children, a husband and a pony each day, I’m all for an easy life, which can usually mean convenient food stuffs. Who isn’t pulled towards the shiny, colourful packaged ‘naughty’ foods by a Tesco tractor beam? “Resistance is futile!”

Many of us often take our health for granted but take time to consider the following:-

Cholesterol plays an essential role in how every cell in the body works. It’s all a bit scientific, so all you need to know is that too much ‘harmful cholesterol’ in the blood will increase your risk of getting cardiovascular disease.

A HEALTHY ONE OF COURSE

Blood Pressure Do you know what your blood pressure reading is? Your blood pressure reading might seem like random numbers to you. It’s a good idea to find out what those numbers mean, what causes high blood pressure and if you have it, what you could do to try to manage & possibly reduce it.

Cholesterol Do you know what your cholesterol level is? Too much cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart problems. For people aged 40+ it is often a good idea to have your cholesterol checked – ask your GP or Practice nurse to see if you need a test.

Your Weight Carrying extra weight can be dangerous to your health. It is a good idea to get advice on how to have a low fat diet & reducing your weight and to understand why it is important.

Smoking Want to live a long and healthy life? Quit smoking. Ask your GP Receptionist what services there are to help you to quit.

LOWERING YOUR CHOLESTEROL

Okay, Joanne - What’s Cholesterol?

Harmful cholesterol levels can be caused by eating too many saturated fats and transfats, so it’s pretty much a no-brainer, that the biggest thing you can do is cut these ‘BAD FATS’ out of our diets. Predominantly, saturated fats are animal fats, commonly found in fatty meat products such as sausages, bacon and fatty cuts of meat. You’ll also find them in full fat dairy products like full fat milk, cream and cheese (sob). Trans-fats are found in pastries, crisps, pies and biscuits (boo). So, next time you go shopping, take a gander at the ingredients label.

‘Good Fats’ = Lower Cholesterol Try to replace your ‘Bad fats’ with ‘Good fats’ which are (you guessed it) Unsaturated Fats. These are commonly known as Monounsaturates and Polyunsaturates. These are usually found from vegetable sources, such as Olive Oil, sunflower oil, avocado and many nuts and seeds, and oily fish that are rich in Omega 3.

Diabetes Diabetes is a condition where there is too much sugar in the blood. It can lead to cardiovascular disease so it is important to try to manage it properly. If you have diabetes talk to your GP or Practice Nurse about your risk of cardiovascular disease and how you can work together to reduce your risk.

Family History Your doctor will ask you about your family history to find out your risk of heart disease. It is a good idea to have this information to hand before you book an appointment.

Lifestyle Changes Your heart is so vital that it’s essential to keep it in good shape. A few lifestyle changes can make a huge difference to your heart health. These include • Eating a healthy diet • Being physically active • Reaching a healthy weight and shape • Quitting smoking • Drinking alcohol moderately • Identifying when you’re under stress • Having a healthy cholesterol level • Having healthy blood pressure • Having healthy blood glucose (sugar) levels What can I do to find out about how healthy my heart could be? If you are aged between 40 and 74 years ask your GP surgery for a free NHS Health Check to identify your risk of developing cardiovascular disease to find out how healthy your heart could be.

You’ll find all this ‘foodie goodness’ every day, in whole grain foods and those high in soluble fibre (bread, pasta, oats, brown rice, fruits and vegetables). Please note, that ALL FATS - GOOD OR BAD - ARE HIGH IN CALORIES, so it's just as important to watch your body weight as this will definitely help to keep your cholesterol to a normal level. Equally important, being physically active will burn off fat and oxygenate your blood, which will help speed up your metabolism and improve overall digestion and internal processing of your food intake. JOANNE WILLCOX Colonic Hydotherapist and Nutritionist

YOUNG PEOPLE

Hi children, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ziggy the Zebra again. Its back to school this month so I hope you'll be concentrating in class and being good for your teacher. You still have the weekends to have fun so why not ask your parents to take you to see the sharks at the Blue Planet Aquarium or visit the baby elephant at Chester Zoo. Don't forget to send your pictures in of me. See you next month xx

CHESTER

ZOO

Registered Charity No. 306077

LAST MONTHS

WINNER OF THE TICKETS

FOR A FAMILY TRANMERE ROVERS RECREATION CENTRE

OF FOUR

The winner of the tickets for August was Allan Philips who emailed his entry. Well done Allan! The tickets are on there way to you. Enjoy!

Please call for details T: 0151 609 3333 E: enquiries@trrconline.com W: www.trrconline.com

Misha, aged 5 sent in this drawing of me! If you would like to draw me and I publish it you could win yourself a beanie baby as pictured below. Send your Ziggy drawings to Zebra Magazine, 20 Balls Road, Oxton, Birkenhead CH43 5RE or email artwork@zebramag.co.uk

DIVE

WITH SHARKS!

Blue Planet is the only aquarium in England to offer shark diving experiences. The Shark Encounter experience enables absolute beginners to dive with three-metre-long sharks in its incredible 3.8 million litre Caribbean Reef display, complete with 230ft underwater tunnel. Blue Planet Aquarium is home to Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest collection of sharks. The Shark Diving Experience won Best Tourism Experience of the Year at the Visit Chester and Cheshire awards ceremony in July. Commenting on the award, Visit Chester and Cheshire said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The judges thought that this was a unique, memorable and very special experience certainly giving the wow factor! Accompanied at all times by instructors, small groups are able to explore the vast ocean reef display and enjoy incredibly close encounters with sand tiger, lemon and nurse sharks as well as stingrays and a host of other spectacular marine creatures.

Blue Planet Aquarium is at junction 10 of the M53 and is easy to find from the M56 and M6. If you're travelling from the M6, join the M56 at J20, then head towards Ellesmere Port and turn onto the M53 at junction15. Follow the brown tourist information signs for Blue Planet and Cheshire Oaks. T: 0151 357 8800 | www.blueplanetaquarium.com

Main picture: Gilet £45 Crew Neck T-Shirt £15 Grandad Top £15 Beanie £7 Mid Wash Vintage Jeans £40 Boots £75 Watch £35 NEXT

NEXT PLEASE Guys, whether you are out casually or in work mode, stand tall with Next fashions. A fabulous Autumn / Winter selection is new in store to inspire and entice. Happy Shopping.

Pictured below: Hooded Jacket £45 Layered Grandad Top £20 Coated Raw Jeans £25 Shoes £45 NEXT

Pictured above: Tweed Jacket £75 Crew Neck T-Shirt £15 Grandad Top £16 Trilby £12 Coated Jeans £35 NEXT

Main picture: Piped Suit Jacket £64 Piped Trousers £35 Print Shirt £28 Skinny Tie £8 NEXT

Are you ready for

PlayStation Move? Get Moving PlayStation Move redefines motion gaming with the most immersive and realistic gaming experience only possible on the PlayStation 3 system. The simple, easy-to-use controller captures a full range of motion giving you ultimate control over how you play the game. With a diverse selection of games and new ones launching all the time, you can enjoy hours of fun with friends and family.

How it Works... The technology seems to be like the Wii Remote but backwards. While the Wiimote has a camera in it that sees the UV lights on the censor bar, then transmits positional information back to the wii using the wireless signal, the Move does it the other way round. It uses a PlayStation Eye camera to work out where the Move is by looking for a positional tracker on the Move (cleverly disguised as a massive glowing ball), and also uses a bluetooth connection to transmit button presses, etc. The thing this seems to do better than the wiimote is being able to detect how far the Move is away.

A Game For Every Move Whether you’re experienced, casual, or somewhere in between, PlayStation Move has a wide variety of games including sports, action, party, family, and shooters. The games are addictively fun and the outcome of every move is all under your control. Check out our diverse lineup of PlayStation Move games here: Immerse yourself in the most innovative games ever created with the PlayStation Move motion controller. The corner stone of the PlayStation Move, the motion controller is your gateway into a gaming experience like none other. Combining advanced motion sensors, a dynamic colour changing sphere, vibration feedback, and an easy to use button interface, the motion controller delivers the most immersive gaming available. Move and play your way through Bluray powered HD worlds and innovative experiences that only PlayStation Move can deliver.

THE BIG THREE...

PRICES BELOW DO NOT INCLUDE REQUIRED CONSOLES.

PlayStation Move

Xbox 360 Kinect

Wii Motion Plus

Containing sophisticated motion sensing technology, the Move Motion controller gives you an accurate and reliable experience complete with vibration feedback and a dynamic colour changing sphere. RRP £49.99

Kinect tracks your movements in full 3-D and responds to commands, directions and can even detect the emotion in your voice. It can even recognise you and sign you in to Xbox Live, all you need to do is stand in front of the camera. RRP: £129.00

This device is attached to the bottom of the Wii remote and senses even subtle motion’s. It can locate where and how players hold the Wii remote in 3-D space. It pushes active gaming to new levels of immersion and a new standard of control. RRP: £18.99

GADGETS

GO GO GADGETS TECHY TOYS

1. Parrot AR. Drone £300 WWW.PARROT.COM/UK. | 2. Toshiba Dual-Screen Tablet COMING SOON. | 3. Sony L13S1E Laptop £1499 MARKS & SPENCER. 4. Monster Beats Dr Dre Solo Headphones £149 MARKS & SPENCER. | 5. Nintendo 3DS COMING SOON. | 6. Curve MP3 Speaker £25 BHS. | 7. Sony PSP Go £255 VERY.CO.UK. | 8. M80 Compact Audio System £1500 WWW.MERIDIAN-AUDIO.COM | 9. Elonghi Icona Cappucino Maker £149.00 WOOLWORTHS.CO.UK

ART & CULTURE

LIVERPOOL PRIDE FREEDOM

............................................................ NICOLÉ SIMMONS Aretha would be proud. Liverpool’s largely anticipated first pride festival gave you the freedom to celebrate who you are. With its mob of rainbow coloured supporters storming through the City Centre, it is no wonder that councillors deemed it a huge success and promise bigger and better things next year. Lesbian, gay, straight, bi-sexual and transgender people partied together in the street in and around Liverpool’s gay quarter from noon until night. In between performances from their very own drag queens a host of local celebrities took to the stage to show their support. It was as though someone had filled a firework full of camp, and exploded it across the City. The Gbar hosted outdoor marquees with DJ sets to cram in more party people than the quarter had ever seen. People congregated outside Navy Bar and watched clubbers dance away to booming house music that filled the streets with life. It certainly was a day to remember with everyone getting involved in the fun and dressing up in immensely exaggerated costumes to reflect the celebratory message. If you missed out on Pride this year, next year promises to be colossal - with an added sprinkle of fairy dust. There is no excuse to stay in, get yourself to Liverpool, join in the lust for life, encompassing excitement, total madness and celebrate your individuality.

All photographs courtesy of Mark McNulty.

ART & CULTURE

SOYOUWANTTO BEAWRITER? A POET AND YOU MAY NOT KNOW IT

.................................................................................................................................................................................................... JOHN GORMAN We start to learn to read and write from the age of two; so everybody can write. Whether they can write well is a matter of opinion, and that opinion can be formed by publishing editors, book critics and the buying public. It may seem to be a long ladder to success, but in my mind the fact that somebody makes the effort to write is in itself the success. It is certainly a personal success, and could lead on to public acclaim. I have always had the need to write. I started not because I saw myself as a successful writer, but that I had achieved something for myself. The fact that that need lead to a career, in which writing is an integral part, is the thick icing, and a sprinkling of chocolate chips, on a victoriously delicious, Victorian sponge cake: I have loved every minute of it; still do. As a fresh-faced, writing innocent, living in Birkenhead, I believed that it was only people who lived in London and rubbed shoulders with royalty, politicians and famous people, who could make a living writing. Undoubtedly, the ‘pop’ music breakout in the 60’s showed London, and the world, that creativity on all fronts simmered and boiled throughout the country. Liverpool was no exception - far from it. In the 60s, there were reputed to be between 800-900 musical groups in and around Liverpool, and poetry mushroomed in the shadow of Calliope. It was during the simmering in Liverpool that I got caught up in the pan of creativity, and then it reached boiling point. One week, we were using our writing more or less for our own amusement and the next we were contracted to appear in a 26-week TV series; all because I had a need to write. There has been a degree of opportunity and a great deal of effort, but unless I had been writing and shouting through the letterbox and pushing at the door then the opportunity would have been missed and the effort would have been in wasted. Bear in mind that without writers there would be no cinema, television, radio, music, books, newspapers, magazines, comics or catchy advertising slogans. If you want to be a writer, then the solution is very simple … not easy … but simple; get your pen out, get a stack of paper [that’s the simple part] and get stuck in [that’s the ‘not easy’ part]. When I was appearing in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in the 80’s, I met Professor Magnus Pyke, after he had given a talk in the Waverley Hotel on Princess Street. He was a scientist and the chair of an organisation for the advancement of science. He told me that he wrote two books on popular science every year, and that the only way he could keep up that output was to write for

an hour every day: between 6-7 pm, And no matter where he was or what he was doing, he stuck to that schedule. If he was making a public appearance, he had it written into his contract that he had to be in his hotel for 6 and wasn’t to be disturbed until 7. I was once asked to write a musical about Thomas Chatterton, the 16th century teenage poet and his journey from Bristol to London. I asked what the deadline was and was told whenever. A year later, I still hadn’t made a start. When working as a script writer for the Saturday morning TV series, Tiswas, the deadlines were crucifying. We did 36 weekly shows a year, and I had to write new scripts every week. I had to write scripts whilst I was editing other writers, traveling around the country talent spotting and auditioning, and attending production meetings and rehearsals; and I never missed a deadline. Before you start writing, set yourself those two disciplines: a schedule and a deadline. What makes a good writer? We-e-e-ell! How long is a slice of lemon? An easier question to answer is ‘What makes a writer?’ My advice to anybody with the urge to write, and is poised with pencil in hand over a sheet of blank paper and unsure of the first step, is to take the Poetry Path. This gem of advice is not set in concrete, but it gleams with potential. Writing poetry gets you into a feel for language and expression, and into the discipline of writing WIRRAL: the POETRY PENINSULA Wirral Alliance of Poets When I came back to Birkenhead in 2005, there were three poetry venues on the Wirral. Currently, there are twelve. There are also two in Chester, In Liverpool, there is the long-established Dead Good Poets’ Society, which has been in basement of the Everyman Theatre for 20 years, the Egg Café and Mellow Mellow. It was in the Everyman, formerly the Hope Hall, in the early 60’s, where poetry on Merseyside started, spawning the Mersey Poets, the Liverpool Scene Band and The Scaffold. So, there are plenty of opportunities on the Wirral for poets to ply their poetical wares. There is no better way of judging your writings than hearing and feeling the reaction from an audience. I have seen several poets reading for the first time, and I have seen the expressions on their faces as they have sighed and smiled their ways back into their seats as the audience appreciation washes over them. And, having tasted that appreciation, they are soon back for more.

This Autumn, WAPs is organizing Poetry Competitions at four venues: , Monday 6th September, the Open Mic, The Riverview Pub, Bridge Street, Birkenhead; Thursday 21st October, the Wirral Ode Show at the Stork Pub, Price Street, Birkenhead; Monday 29th November, LivePoetry, Morton Arms, Pasture Road, Moreton; Monday 13th December, Bards of New Brighton, Magazine Pub, New Brighton. The prize for each competition is £50l Have a go; you never know!

The Wirral Young Poet Laureate The Wirral has a Young Poet Laureate. It is the second place in the country to have a Young Laureate. Carol Ann Duffy is the patron. The Young Laureate is chosen from Wirral Secondary Schools by a panel of judges and was started to give a positive platform to young people, and to raise an interest in writing. The first Wirral Young Poet Laureate was Holly Green, Upton Hall School, in 2008. Holly had a very busy and eventful year, meeting Willy Russell, who paid for a Creative Writing Course for her. During her year, Holly was commissioned to write and perform poems for public occasions, including the Mayor Making and the Remembrance Parade in Hamilton Square. All the fees Holly received for her commissions were donated to the Macmillan Cancer Trust. This year’s Young Laureate is Jess Yung, and Hannah Kelly is her deputy. They are each being commissioned to write and perform a poem to be read before Carol Ann Duffy performs at this year’s Wirral BookFest in October. All of the Young Laureates will have their poems featured in an anthology, due out in October. The Chris Salmon Poetry Extravaganza Chris Salmon was a student at Caldy Grammar. He died at the age of 15. His favourite subject was poetry. His parents have set up a foundation in memory of their son. The foundation will fund an annual poetry competition for primary and secondary schools. Details of the competition will be featured in the next issue of Zebra. So-o-o-o-o-o, what next? There are plenty of opportunities on the Wirral for poets of any age and any experience to put pen to paper [or fingers on keyboards] and take that first bold step to becoming a writer Details of the Wirral and Merseyside Poetry Organisations, Venues and Events will be published in future editions of the magazine. Any budding, foreboding, tentative, twitching writers lurking in starving garrets out there who need a kick start then get in touch. Otherwise, just write and enjoy, and I’ll see you around.

ART & CULTURE

THE MONKEYS FINGER BIRTHDAY SURPRISE

.................................................................................................................................................................................................. “… and on your birthday, I’ll hand you a tiny box, and inside will be exactly what you’ve always wanted!” “Now, that would be amazing, ” I said, “ I would be so delighted!” “It won’t be a ring, or a watch or a necklace-it will be what you really want,” continued Emma as we waited to be served. “That’s right- it will be a monkey’s finger!” Now, at that exact moment, and I’m not sure if it was coincidence or collective shock, but the restaurant fell silent. The smartly dressed cashier, who was mid card machine operation had to physically pick his jaw off the floor. “ Hang on…hang on,” I said, trying desperately to grab the words out of the air to stuff them back in our mouths, “When she says a monkeys finger… its not a…listen, there’s a back story here.” Giving me a ‘yeah yeah, of course there is-kind of look’ the cashier looked at his colleagues them back at Emma and I, who suddenly felt like a monkey-eating philistines! I’m lucky enough to be the proud owner of a Mother and Child sculpture by the artist Emma Rodgers. It’s a piece that’s about 2ft in height, made from ceramic, with brown and cream glaze that runs from high gloss to matt, with every texture in between. As the name suggests, the piece depicts a mother monkey busily grooming her tiny, fragile baby, cradling it in her arms such a tender moment that you almost feel like you’re intruding when looking at the pair. It’s a beautiful piece and I look after it very carefully-or at least I thought I did…

Now, I know she’s not a real monkey, and I know that for some it’s only a piece of sculpture, but I really don’t think I could have felt more upset if it had have been a real living, breathing baby monkey. Where was the missing finger??? I frantically searched the area around the damaged mother and her baby, stopping short of chalking out a scene of crime and putting incident tape around the room. I pulled away the furniture - dragging the heavy leather chair away so I could get a closer look, but to no avail-the finger was nowhere to be seen. One by one I interrogated the guest that had been at the house in the days previous to my discovery. Swinging between good cop and bad cop, channelling both Cagney and Lacey simultaneously, I tried to get to the bottom of what had happened-but each time I came up blank. Had the monkey’s finger just disappeared into thin air? I think I was on the point of insanity as even the cat came under suspicion. There was only one thing for it-I had to come clean to Emma. She was the only person who could make the baby whole again. So I did, over lunch that day when the whole restaurant thought that I’d ordered a side portion of monkeys finger! If you do one thing this month…

Make some time on Sunday, 5th September to go down to the Croft Business Park, Carrock Rd, Bromborough for a family fun day and support the amazing work done by Claire House. The Charity fun day, organised by the very clever guys from 360 Auto Design, will have everything from classic vintage cars to drag cars and even super cars! The main event will be a Grand Tourismo Challenge on the Playstation 3. Anyone with fast fingers and the reactions of a cat should prepare for a virtual battle. The Chairman meets Rover and his new friends.

It was a couple of days after a busy Christmas. The house had been full of people day and night for the whole of the festive period. Family and friends had arrived, laden with gifts and smiles and left many hours later-in some cases even days later, with full stomachs and arms full of presents, but this time that they could keep. After the celebrations came the inevitable clean up and it was during this reluctant period of activity that the crime was discovered!! ‘One, two, three…seven, eight, nine..Yep, definitely one missing!’ The baby was missing a digit. One of her fingers (I’d decided as soon as I saw it that she was a girl) was definitely missing.

ANGELA SAMATA

John Bishton and his brother Gaz, owners of 360 Auto Design said, “We’ll have various time trials with a top prize of a full Track Day Experience as well as raffles, a bouncy castle, live bands, food stalls and a BBQ for those who are peckish after all that racing. “So many local businesses have been incredibly generous, donating prizes and money to support the event, with all the proceeds going to Claire House Children’s Hospice. It’s a charity that’s very close to our hearts and it would great to see as many people as possible having a good time on the day, so come along, have a race, get a closer look at some amazing cars and have a great time, while raising money for a worth while local charity.”

Mother and Child by Emma Rogers

As she describes it, the first in the series of dancers, commissioned by Hugh Frost, Chairman of the Beetham Organization, sounds spectacular with the Liverpool skyline tenderly folded into the dancer's skirt, brushed gently with gold leaf and encrusted with rubies to represent the red lights of the Beetham Tower,

“Mind your head,” she says as we make our way through one of her daughter’s bedrooms into an attic room. “When we moved into this house a few months ago, I thought this room would make a great play den for the girls, but actually, I love it as a studio space.”

Frost has long been a supporter of Emma’s’ work; “Emma's interpretation of all her subjects is absolutely unique. In looking for a piece of sculptured art to adorn the penthouse of Liverpool's tallest building Emma had to be my preferred choice.” Frost commented. His restaurant, the Panoramic housed in Liverpool's’ Beetham Tower, boasts a magnificent example of an Emma Rodgers bull as its centre piece, with nostrils flared, and giving you such a sense of its awesome power that you almost expect the bull to run amok, leaving broken crockery and smashed glasses in its wake.

It's been a busy year so far for Wirral born artist Emma Rodgers, one of the UK's leading ceramic sculptors. Like her beautifully sculpted dancers, Emma's feet have hardly touched the ground.

Now, I don’t know about you, but I’ve always fascinated by artists studios, the inner sanctum where the creative process happens, so when Emma asks if I’d like see hers, it’s an invitation I can’t resist.

Scattered with toys and plastercine that her daughters, Carmen aged three and Scarlotte, five, have been using to make models with their mum, the studio is obviously a place where the children are welcome as I expected with pictures of dancers and stuffed animals on the shelves, clay and the tools in evidence. I feel almost honoured to see where creations that have graced the Saatchi Gallery or Hampton's in New York started their journey. An Emma Rodgers piece is recognizable from fifty paces. Constantly exploring new subject matter, her work swings from dancing figures, to fighting hares, from monkeys to eagles, with some of her early work resembling frog dissections suspended in formaldehyde. Stripped back almost to their muscles and bone, are wild hares, bulls, horses and ravens along with ballet

2010 was littered with exhibitions for the ex Birkenhead Tech lecturer, both here and across the pond, with Emma breaking ground with her usual finesse by featuring in the Miami Arts Show, usually the stamping ground for American artists only, and having a solo show in New York's' Stricoff Gallery. Emma Rodgers-Sketch to Sculpture at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool brought her back home with visitors to the show being greeted by a life-size sculpture of a majestic dancer absorbed in her practice. Sketches of the first LIPA dancer, Sophie Parette, who inspired the piece, adorned the walls of the Walker and gave visitors a glimpse of Emma's creative process. Sitting in her kitchen, surrounded by all that is domestic, it’s easy to see how Emma stays grounded, “I love working with dancers – when I’m watching them I’m amazed by their strength and grace. It’s incredible and really interesting to look at the way their bodies have been shaped by the physical nature of the job. Sophie's feet are distorted because she's being dancing en pointe for so long. Do you fancy another coffee?”

Hand of Puppet

I love working with dancers – when I’m watching them I’m amazed by their strength and grace. It’s incredible and really interesting to look at the way their bodies have been shaped by the physical nature of the job.

Sky Dancer

ART & CULTURE

Continued from page 47. dancers, arms outstretched. They are caught in mid action, sinews taught, muscles tones, pushing their bodies almost as far as Emma pushes her materials. She has a unique insight into both the action and tenderness of movement and the gesture. This insight is underpinned and visible through the transference of concept as drawing to sculptures. “I've always been drawn to agile animals,” Emma says, “especially the ones with a strong muscle structure, and I always try to express their energy in my work capturing their movement, or the moment of impact between two fighting hares.” Looking through a catalogue of her pieces back down in the kitchen where her husband John is preparing the children’s lunch, even the figures that appear more sedate on the surface on closer inspection seem to be hiding a deep secret, the eyes are hollow, gaping holes gauged in an attempt to see beneath their skin, exposing their inner make up. Emma will have to resist the understandable temptation to put her feet up as it doesn't look like things are going to slow down in September. Her work will feature in an exhibition of ceramics based on the human figure called 'Reflections' that will travel across Europe. With wolves as this year's motif, it seems right that Emma and her animals will form a strong part of the 2010 Liverpool Biennial, with a show by the Bluecoat Display Centre celebrating her work. I asked Maureen Bampton the Bluecoat Display Centre why she thought it was important to have Emma’s’ work as part of the Biennial: “We’ve supported her career for many years and as well as exhibiting her work regularly, have also taken it to the V&A and Saatchi galleries, and also to shows in Chicago on. “All the pieces in the Biennial show at Hope University's newly-built Capstone building will be for sale from Saturday, 18th September until Friday, 12 November 2010, with a chance for a first glimpse of the works on 23rd September 2010. “To me her work has so many admirable qualities - it is vital, original, dynamic and captures movement and muscle tone perfectly. We also have a long standing relationship with Hope Uni and I’m looking forward to the show.” As I say bye to Emma and the girls, I wonder if things will slow down for Emma in 2011? Not if this year's a sign of things to come.

From the end of september onwards Emma will be working on a large outdoor bronze at Castle Fine Arts, Jordan Street Liverpool.

Falcon

S U C O INFL TALENT...

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ART & CULTURE

CLAPPERBOARD PRESENTS... THE WIRRAL INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

..........................................................................................................................................................................................................BILL ELMS A BOY CALLED DAD will be screened to launch 3rd Wirral International Film Festival. Directed by BAFTA award winning Liverpool director Brian Percival (Much Ado About Nothing, The Old Curiosity Shop, Gracie!) written by Liverpool writer, Julie Rutterford (Teachers, Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes) and starring Liverpool actor Ian Hart (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Neverland). A BOY CALLED DAD filmed on location in Liverpool, tells the story of Robbie, a 14 year old boy who has just become a father. Abandoned by his own father Joe, Robbie snatches his baby son and goes on the run. As Joe joins the search for Robbie, they are each forced to face up to the past and what it really means to be a father. Brian Percival (Director) and Julie Rutterford (Screenwriter), who reside on the Wirral, will participate in a Question and Answer session with the audience immediately following the screening. Brian

Percival said "It was always my dream to direct a feature film but to be able to direct part of it on my own doorstep made the dream even more special. The icing on the cake is to have our film screened at the 3rd Wirral International Film Festival. We hope it's as successful a night as the Clapperboard screening at the Plaza Crosby earlier this year". Clapperboard’s Director, Maureen Sinclair said “Its Clapperboard’s first collaboration with the Wirral Film Festival and as there is a strong connection between the Wirral and A BOY CALLED DAD it’s the perfect local film to launch the festival”.

LISTING INFORMATION A BOY CALLED DAD Monday 27th September 6.30pm for a 7pm start. T.A. Centre Chetwynd, Wexford Rd, Prenton, CH43 9TF Tickets £5 from info@clapperboarduk.com tel. 0151 224 0532 (The screening of A BOY CALLED DAD launches the Wirral 3rd Film Festival). More information can be found at www.clapperboarduk.com

JOEL HALL DANCERS FLORAL PAVILION, NEW BRIGHTON

.................................................................................................................................................................................................. DIANE TREMARCO To get you in the mood for the arrival of world renowned Jazz Dance company ‘The Joel Hall Dancers’ at the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, this September, MDI would like to invite you to take part in our Jazz Dance Master Class with Zara Pierce at the MDI studio, 24 Hope St, L1 9BX at 2pm on Wednesday 25th August. The Joel Hall Dancers are celebrated for their joyous blend of jazz, ballet, modern and “street” dance techniques. In their thirty six-year history as a professional Chicago-based dance ensemble, the company has performed all over the world, presenting works by Joel Hall and many nationally and internationally recognised choreographers, achieving a noted reputation as a quintessential American Contemporary Urban Jazz Ballet Company that is sophisticated yet accessible. We do hope you can join us! Spaces are limited so please RSVP to John@billelms.com The Joel Hall Dancers perform at the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton on Tue 7 & Wed 8 September 2010 at 7.30pm. Book by calling 0151 666 0000 or www.floralpavilion.com. Let’s LEAP about, let’s dance!

FEATURE

EVERY MAN MUST HAVEA DREAM BILLY KINSLEY

.................................................................................................................................................................................................. DIANE TREMARCO I must have been around 17 when I was taken to a pub in Birkenhead called the Pacific to watch a band called The Cheats. The landlady, Vera, knew the band well and had them on every week, a Monday, if I recall. Brian was on drums, Kenny was on vocals and played the guitar and Billy was on vocals and played bass. They produced an amazing sound and were unbelievably tight and obviously masters of their craft. I had no idea that the guy before me was an original member of the Merseybeats. When Billy Kinsley was a young lad of fifteen, he found himself in the enviable position of having a top five hit “I Think of You” with his band The Merseybeats playing on the same bill as The Beatles. The Beatles raved about “I Think of You” on Juke Box Jury which resulted in a life-long relationship between the two bands. The Merseybeats appeared on the same bill as The Beatles more than any other band of that era. Venues such as The Cavern, The Tower Ballroom in New Brighton and the Odd Spot in Liverpool saw them build a fan base, many of whom still support them to this day. The Merseybeats and The Merseys went on to become one of the most well-known bands in England and had many other hits including “Sorrow”, “It’s Love that Really Counts” and “Wishin and Hopin” In 1975 Billy and three friends, Roger Scott Craig, Tony Coates and Derek Cashin, joined to create Liverpool Express. Before long they had recorded their first album “Tracks” with Warner Brothers Records and within a matter of six months they had several hit records across Europe including “You Are My Love”, “Every Man Must Have a Dream”, “Dreamin”, “Smile” and “Hold Tight”. Their greatest success came in South America where they scored three consecutive Top Ten hits and toured in 1977. They were one of the first bands to play in the sport stadiums in Brazil. Arriving at Rio de Janeiro’s airport, the band was greeted by thousands of hysterical fans. “It was quite a shock for us to be welcomed to Brazil by so many screaming fans. In fact, we thought someone famous was on our flight and we had no clue what was going on”, said Billy Kinsley about the experience. A second album “Dreamin” was released and in 1978 drummer Peter Kircher joined the band and

participated in the recording of their third album “LEX”, the cover of the album featuring model Jerry Hall who later married Mick Jagger. In 1979 another friend, drummer John Ryan, joined the band in place of Kircher, who had left to work with Status Quo. In the early 80’s, Liverpool guitarist Kenny Parry joined the band, Roger emigrated to America and John Ryan never returned home after touring in Australia. Billy and Kenny continued working together with Dave Goldberg on keyboards and Brian Rawling on drums and released the single “So What” in 1983. Brian, who now lives in America, went on to produce Cher’s hit “Believe” as well as “Now That You’re Gone” for Mike & The Mechanics and Ricky Martin’s “Private Emotion”. Before and after his stint with Liverpool Express, Billy was a sought after musician in Liverpool and London and spent years performing as a studio musician for some artists signed to Apple records including Peter and Gordon, Jackie Lomax, Doris Troy and Billy Preston and for producers like Paul McCartney and George Harrison. Billy, who still lives in Liverpool, still tours with The Merseybeats who have been named the most popular 60’s touring band for four years in a row by English fans. He owns and operates Fedora Street Studios where he has recorded CDs for The Cavern Club class of 64, Radio Merseyside and The Pete Best Band. Since he played such a major role in the 60’s music scene, writers and TV interviewers ask him to provide expert historical information about The Beatles and other bands from that era. He worked with The Beatles story Museum to develop exhibits, provided information for the recent publication, “The Beatles Gear”, worked with Spencer Leigh on his book about The Cavern, and also participated in TV documentaries including The Beatles Anthology and the BBC’s Places I Remember. In an interview with the BBC in 1991, Paul McCartney, a friend from the early Cavern days, picked “You are my love” as one of his all-time favourite songs, quite a tribute from one of the greatest songwriters of all time. The music of Liverpool Express is still played on radio stations over the world and due to public demand they released two further albums, “The Best of Liverpool Express” on CD and “Once Upon A Time”, and it’s obvious the Liverpool Express

magic is still there! Occasionally you can catch the band playing live gigs in and around Liverpool. On September the 9th at the Cavern Club, Billy will be launching his new CD ‘It’s Love That Really Counts’ alongside a book of the same name written by Spencer Leigh. Without giving too much away, the CD will feature five new songs and some beautiful covers including ‘Just One Look’ of Hollies fame. In the book find out why his birth certificate shows the wrong date of birth and how he nearly lost an eye when his face was slashed. There are poignant tales about working at Apple with the Beatles and we learn of Billy’s family life. Spencer Leigh has written a warm and compelling story about one of the nicest and most respected people in show business. Don’t take our word for it – ask anyone who knows him! Is it love that really counts? The answer is quite obviously, yes. Billy met his childhood sweetheart Sandra 47 years ago and they are still together today, creating, quite possibly, his finest record. Photograph Immediate right: ‘Its Love That Really Counts’ book cover. Far right: Billy & Sandra with Sir Paul & Mike McCartney. Bottom right: Liverpool Express meeting Prince Charles.

FEATURE

27 Grange Road, West Kirby, Wirral, Ch48 4DZ

Selling Beautiful 1900's to 1980's Clothing for Men & Women. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10-5.30pm Closed Wednesday Open on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month 11-4.00pm. Call T: 07905561019

A Little Bit Of Vintage

YOUR ULTIMATEWEDDING

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AND MO

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12 months to go... • Work out your budget, try to be as realistic as possible. • Fix date and time and choose your wedding location. • Find out if photos and videos can be taken. Galaxy entertainment on Oxton Road are there to take the pressure off your wedding day by offering affordable packages to capture your special day, it’s always good to rely on a professional. • Book your venue, it would be a good idea to book entertainment at this point and again Galaxy will be able to offer a variety of performance to suit your venue. • Choosing caterers can be a minefield simply work out what you can afford to

Love is,floral eden design for beautiful bespoke wedding flowers

spend and shop around for the best available for your budget.

11 months to go... • Decide how many guests will be invited! Be sensible now. • Start looking for a wedding dress, 11 months gives you time to book/save up for your dream dress. Opulence in West Kirby offers a wide range of fabulous dresses to choose from. Brides are given the opportunity to book a private appointment and to try on gowns at their leisure.

T: 0151 625 7711 F: 0151 625 7559 77 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral, CH48 0RA edenfloraldesign.co.uk

• Confirm all of your bookings in writing, no-one wants a host of guests standing outside watching a different bride and groom skip out of your venue due to double booking.

10 months to go... • Choose your attendants, best man and ushers, save on family arguments by

“Opulence Bridalwear, bringing the world’s most beautiful dresses to the Wirral”

getting it over with 10 months clear of your big day. • Think about colour themes and designs, Chairstyle in Meols offer a service decorating wedding chairs at your chosen venue to match the colour scheme of your big day. • Grab a few honeymoon brochures and have a quick look through, try to make a shortlist of destinations. We hear a one man tent is a cosy option for a cheap honeymoon. • Choose and order your wedding cake. Pipedreams in West Kirby have a

Upper Floors, 19-25 The Crescent West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4HL Telephone: 0151 625 9933 E-mail: mail@opulencebride.co.uk Web: www.opulencebride.com

delicious selection of mouthwatering cakes to choose from. • Choose outfits for the bridesmaid, groomsmen and the groom himself. A little bit of vintage, also based in West Kirby offers 1900-1980’s clothing if you fancy something a little different. It could also double up as your “something old” in traditional rhyme.

9 months to go... • Plan your wedding gift list and try to involve your fiancé. • Decide on your flowers. West Kirby’s Eden flowers provide exceptional wedding flowers and would happily talk through your options with you.

8 months to go... • Start sorting your stationary, invitations, order of service, name cards etc. Dragonfly couture stationary are based in Thornton Hough and offer a bespoke range of stationary. It is often the little extra touches that go towards making your day extra special.

FEATURE

G COUNTDOWN

ORE...

............................................................................................... DIANE TREMARCO

7 months to go... • Book your transport! You don’t want to be stranded in your gown, with only dads builders van for help.

6 months to go... • Select presents for your attendants. • Choose wedding rings. • Everybody wants clear beautiful skin on their wedding day, so now is the time to step up your normal beauty regime.

5 months to go... • Book your honeymoon, check passports for renewal dates and sort if necessary.

4 months to go... • Start buying honeymoon clothes. • Sort out accommodation for your wedding night if not incorporated in honeymoon.

www.chairstyle.co.uk t: 0151 632 0055 e: post@chairstyle.co.uk SHOWROOM AT WEDDING HOUSE LIVERPOOL 1.

3 months to go... • Try different looks with your beautician, and decide which one you want to go with. • Book a wedding rehearsal, so each and every person knows what they’re doing. • Confirm ceremony details.

2 months to go... • Send out invitations, and keep tabs on who is coming and who isn’t. • Arrange hen and stag nights.

1 month to go... • Phone any guests who haven’t responded to invitations. • Inform the caterers of your final number of guests. • Work out the seating plan and if you need to keep certain people away from others! • Visit hairdresser to try different styles with tiara or veil. • Reconfirm all arrangements (just in case).

Wedding day... • It’s your wedding day, enjoy.

Galaxy Entertainment, 32 Oxton rd Birkenhead CH41 2QJ t: 0151 203 11 55 e: dan@galaxyweddings.co.uk w: www.galaxyentertainmentuk.co.uk

Researched By Nicolé Simmons

99 - 101 Banks Road West Kirby, Wirral CH48 0RB Tel: 0151 625 2659 www.pdcd.co.uk

SPORT & LEISURE

PRENTON GOLF

LAST MAN STANDING

.......................................................................................CHRIS ANSTEY

....................................................................................... CHRIS ANSTEY

OF COURSE

CRICKET CRAZE

Like any good course, Prenton offers reward for risk takers, although taking the risk could also mean a ruined scorecard. This is shown as early as the par-four 1st, where the sizeable green is easily reached with a driver or smaller wood off the tee. The catch however is that a pesky stream runs across the fairway just before the green as well as a water hazard long and left. This means if you tend to draw your longer clubs, it is advisable to lay up short of the stream with a six or seven iron. Other notable holes include the par-five 11th. An unforgiving drive with tress lining either side of the fairway before a wonderful downhill dog-leg left before the fairway climbs uphill again to the hole. The 18th is a great hole to finish on. If you find yourself in the fairway off the tee, then you’ll enjoy attacking the pin right in front of the clubhouse on a two-tier green, but be careful, if you hook your approach you could have the diners on the clubhouse balcony scrambling for cover. Visitors: £25 during week, £35 at weekends, £15 with a member.

MUST HAVE

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Prenton is one of the best kept golfing secrets on the Wirral. A beautiful inland course with a wonderful mix of picturesque views and challenging golf makes Prenton a superb venue for a round of golf.

New cricket game that’s sweeping the globe hits New Brighton Cricket Club. The spinner runs in, bowls and your batting partner’s eyes light up. He gives the ball a mighty heave only to grimace as he sends the ball skyward. The fielder in the deep takes a comfortable catch and as a gentleman you turn to offer some words of consolation to your fallen comrade. All of a sudden, something round and pink whistles past your ear and clunks into the stumps at the non-striker’s end that sends the fielding team into giddy celebration. Your heart sinks to the pit of your stomach as it suddenly dawns on you what has happened. You’ve been double-played… Welcome to Last Man Stands, the frenetic and fantastical new form of cricket that is currently sweeping the globe. 10,000 players now play LMS in England, South Africa, Dubai, Australia and New Zealand. “Last Man Stands was born out of me and my mates wanting to play cricket but not having time at the weekends,” said the game’s Neston-based founder, Wayne Greve. “So we came up with a format that was short, sharp and very competitive.” The game is traditional Twenty20 cricket but with various quirky rules introduced, some designed to quicken the pace of the game, some more for the hell of it (nothing wrong with that!). These include teams of eight players in coloured kits, a pink ball, five ball overs, free-hits and the square-leg umpire is the next man into bat! The double-play is the ultimate humiliation for any batsman and can turn the balance of a match in one ball. The fact that games are usually completed in under two hours means that cricketers who can’t or don’t want to give up their whole weekends to the sport can enjoy the game they love and still be home in time for Eastenders. A key ingredient in the recipe to success for Last Man Stands is the global ranking system which is unique in the world of amateur cricket. The website stores and displays all team and individual profiles with full career history, global batting rankings, bowling rankings and global team rankings. Last month at New Brighton Cricket Club was the final of the Wirral LMS League, won by the Dibbingsdale Incredibles, as well as a Wirral knockout tournament with Oxton Cricket Club the victors thanks to some big hitting from Will Lamb and Matt Ballard. The winners now enter into the Champions League in London along with the winners of 35 other regional competitions. The winners of the Champions League will then play as England’s representatives in the LMS World Final on the Gold Coast of Australia. With the exclusivity and seriousness of some cricket clubs often putting people off the sport, Last Man Stands is the perfect mix of sociability and competitiveness. LMS is a game that will hopefully help boost the numbers of people playing one of the nation’s finest pastimes. To find out more about LMS or to view the latest global rankings visit www.lastmanstands.co.uk or to view and purchase the pictures from the recent tournament at New Brighton CC visit www.zebramag.co.uk

THE RULES... Each innings is made up of 20 five-ball overs Eight players per side Batsmen must retire at 50 but can return if all other players are out. The last not-out batsman may keep batting as long as they score either two, four or six off every ball. The square leg umpire is the next man into bat. The first wide or no ball of an over is worth one extra run and an extra ball, but any subsequent wides or no-balls are worth three (with no extra ball). Double play: both batsman can be out off the same delivery (one batsman can be caught and the other run out). A six struck from the ball of the innings is worth 12.

SPORT & LEISURE

SUPER SUNDAY

ROVERS NEW FRIENDS

...................................................................................... CHRIS ANSTEY

............................................................................................... TRFC

So England's “heroes” have returned from the World Cup and have been maternally embraced by the fans of their respective clubs. After a month or so of sell-out crowds singing their praises Messrs Rooney, Terry and Gerrard's egos will be sufficiently massaged so that the 4-1 demolition by Germany in Bloemfontein is a distant memory.

Around 500 supporters visited Prenton Park for Tranmere Rover Football Club's training day last month.

Professional football is broken. Spiralling wages and a perceived lack of (for want of a better phrase) being arsed has meant that instead of being the heroes of the local working man, footballers now represent an echelon in society that is so far removed from the rest of society that the rest of us are starting to feel out of touch.

They then got to look around the home and away dressing rooms, the Manager's room and the match officials' room before watching the players train on the pitch. The players were put through their paces by the coaching staff while Manager Les Parry provided commentary before the session ended with the squad trying, and failing at, the R Factor.

UNSUNG HEROS

ITS PUUURRRFECT.

The event began at 9.30am when fans got the chance to take part in some interactive games (kindly provided by Cross Sports) in the Directors' Car Park before entering the Club Shop where the new claret and blue away kit was on sale.

While many of us struggle to keep the bills paid and the children fed, players' cars are getting faster, watches are getting bigger, houses are getting grander and wives are getting faker. But after all that, why then, have thousands of children and adults in nine different leagues across the Wirral strapped on their boots for another season of amateur football? It's because of people like Steve Henshaw. Every Saturday rain or shine, Steve manages Ridgewood Rangers in the Birkenhead and Wirral Amateur Football League. Their season got off to a flier after beating Greenbank 7-1 in the league's annual curtain raiser, the Burkett Shield thanks to four goals from Neil Davies. Rangers then defeated Bronze Social 4-1 in their opening league fixture leaving them top of Division Two.

“Sometimes I think he picks the team out of a bingo machine” Steve also coaches some of the younger age groups and has even been known to referee some games, even though by his own admission he is prone to the “odd terrible decision.” Captain Sam Dooley, 22, is full of tongue-in-cheek praise for Steve. “Sometimes I think he picks the team out of a bingo machine, but he does a great job. We're still unbeaten this season!” It's because of people like Steve that we can still enjoy football without the excess and greed of the modern professional game. He doesn't do it for glory or personal gain, but for his own lads Liam and Robbie, as well as the rest of his squad. We will never tire of watching the likes of Drogba and Rooney because they are the best in the world at what they do. After seeing Chester City go out of business though, it is comforting to know that the amateur leagues will always give us the opportunity to enjoy football the way it was meant to be played, in torrential rain on an overgrown bobbly pitch.

The Chairman meets Rover and his new friends.

Following the end of training, the players made their way up to the Tranmere Suite, Vice Presidents' Suite and Dixie Dean Suite where they signed autographs and posed for photos ffor around an hour and half, while Chairman Peter Johnson chatted to supporters in the Boardroom. Chief Executive Mick Horton said: "It was a fantastic day. It was a great chance for our fans to see what the players do on a daily basis and get some autographs at the same time. “We're really proud of our strong community links and we were delighted to welcome our fans behind the scenes at Prenton Park for the second year in a row. Everyone went home with a smile on the face and I'd like to thank all those who attended."

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B2B

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

...................................................................................

DANIEL DAVIES

Over the coming editions I want to ‘go back to basics’, to re-use a famous phrase, and talk about survival techniques for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This article is all about leadership and championing simplicity.

Lead from the front!

Tel: 01925 812705 Fax: 0870 486 8233 Mob: 07799147366 40 Station Road North, Fearnhead, Warrington, WA2 0QG

www.ajfishwick.com

• You need to set an example. • You need to talk to your customers. • You need properly to understand their needs. • You need to make sure your staff know that they need to keep you in the loop concerning customer satisfaction. The businesses that survive and thrive over the next five years will be those that add value and look after their customers. I recently experienced an example of the right approach: I ordered a pizza from a franchise of Papa John’s in Liscard Village and it was delivered to my home. The next day I got a phone call from the owner of the franchise, who lives in the Isle of Man, asking if I was satisfied with the pizza and the customer service. He gets a report of pizza delivery data every day and personally phones a percentage of his customers to check-out customer satisfaction. This is the right approach, to ask “Are we getting the basics right?”

Kate Wimpenny BSc (Hons) FCA Principal a t m e

At a time of unprecedented economic difficulty the importance of leadership in business will come into sharp relief. You don’t start a business in order to give yourself a job, but leading an SME does require a hands-on approach. It’s your entrepreneurial flair, and ability to judge risk, that has enabled your business to achieve its current level of success. As you grow and delegate more, as you introduce more controls on spending and targets for sales, the danger is you become more remote from the business, and the dynamism that has enabled you to prosper gets diluted. You’ve got to recognise and counteract this danger. In short, you need to lead from the front!

3 Howbeck Road Oxton Wirral CH43 6TD 0151 652 8005 07752 630905 kate@odd-penny.co.uk

Champion simplicity

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Complexity costs money and creates more opportunity for something to go wrong. An example: Easyjet use both Boeing and Airbus to transport their passengers, and a number of different planes of both makes. This creates complexity in terms of staffing, fuelling, servicing and aircraft turnaround times for their operation. By way of contrast, that legendary cost-cutter Michael O’Leary, of Ryanair, uses only one type of aircraft – the Boeing, and only one type of Boeing. This simplicity ensures standardisation of staffing, fuelling, servicing and a really fast, slick aircraft turnaround operation. As a result Ryanair gets an extra flight per day, per plane as compared to Easyjet. By championing simplicity O’Leary cuts costs, raises revenue, productivity and profits. ‘Lead from the front’ and ‘Champion simplicity’. Think about how you can apply these principles in your own business, ask: “How can I lead by example in respect of great customer service? How do I cut out complexity, waste and duplication? How can I make my operation simpler, slicker, smarter?”

NIGHTLIFE

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER

01 02

06 07

Bobby Andrews, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Meeting the conservators, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Gallery Walk and Talk, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Hairspray, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Go Wild! Colouring, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Go Wild! Colouring, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Bluegrass Night, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Pod, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Hairspray, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Sculpture Tour, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Little Smugglebusters Play day, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Go Wild! Colouring, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Hairspray, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Little Smugglebusters Play day, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Bat Talk & Walk, Birkenhead Park, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY MADE - Cross Stitch Club, 2-4 PM, 6 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Walk For Health, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ The Buritos, Jack Rabbit Slims, Hoylake, CH47 3BS Go Wild! Colouring, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Dance Performance: Beyond the arch, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Beads and baggage, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Hairspray, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Revealing activities, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ South and South again- Tom's Crean's story, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Mother Redcap, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Tranmere vs Peterborough, Tranmere Home Game, 3PM Massed Brass Bands, Vale Park, New Brighton, CH45 1LZ Tennis For Free, Birkenhead Park, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY Karaoke, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Eastham Ferry Family Fun Day, The Old Ticket Office field, Ferry Rd, Eastham Go Wild! Colouring, Liverpool World Museum, L3 8EN Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE African batik, International Slavery Museum, L3 4AX Titanic - the night the lights went out, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Dodgy Dan - the booze and fag man, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Spotlight on the Titanic, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Glass Painting for Beginners 1-3PM, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Dave Harrison, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Jukebox Classics, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Mosaics for Beginners, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Artwork of the Month Talk, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 John Dooley, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Denny, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Customs Contraband, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Heritage Open Days 1-3PM, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Drop in Session: For better, for worse, Sudley House, Liverpool, L18 8BX MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Walk For Health 11AM, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE The Christmas, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Home Alone: End Domestic Slavery, International Slavery Museum, L3 4AX Martin Carthy and Dave Swarbrick, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP MADE - Cross Stitch Club, 2-4 PM, 6 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Wallasey Motor Club Promenade Stages Rally, New Brighton, CH45 3H Yeovil Town vs Tranmere, Tranmere Away Game, 3PM Another Country, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Simon Bolivar Quartet, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Tim Garland and the Lighthouse Trio, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Rhod Gilbert & the Cat that Looked like Nicholas Lyndhurst, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Guided tour with Dr Paul O’Keefe, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Drawing architecture, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Workshop: Crown Jewels, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Mother Redcap, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Mobile Madness, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ

13 14

15 16

20 21 22 23

South and South again - Tom's Crean's story, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Revealing Activities, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Kappa, Jack Rabbit Slims, Hoylake, CH47 3BS Karaoke, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Spotlight on the Titanic, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Rhod Gilbert & the Cat that Looked like Nicholas Lyndhurst, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Tim Garland and The Lighthouse Trio, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, L1 9BP Workshop: Crown jewels, Walker Art Gallery L3 8EL Rummage, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Handling collection, International Slavery Museum L3 4AX Titanic- the night the lights went out- Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey Big Art activity: parent and baby morning, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Rob Shirley, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Prams and pushchairs - gallery talks for young families, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Felt Like a Good Idea, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey Terry O'Shea, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Tour: Hitched Exhibition, Sudley House, Liverpool, L18 8BX Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road,Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Highlights tour, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Heritage Open Days, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Artwork of the Month Talk, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Mersey Ferries Summer Party Night Cruise, Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DP Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Big Art activity: parent and baby morning, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Walk for health, National Conservation Centre L1 6HZ MADE - Cross Stitch Club, 2-4 PM, 6 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Inaugural Wirral Golf Classic, Caldy, Heswall, Royal Liverpool and Wallasey Charlton vs Tranmere, Tranmere Home Game, 3PM Brick Up: The Wirral Strikes Back, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Workshop: Pop art, Walker Art Gallery L3 4AQ Talk: George Stubbs - a vet's perspective, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Now you see them, now you don't, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Revealing activities, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Explore customs, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ South and south again - Tom Crean's story, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Festival of Transport, Birkenhead Park, Birkenhead, CH41 4HY Karaoke, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Workshop: Pop art, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Rummage, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Meet Sniffer and Smugglebuster, Merseyside Maritime Museum, L3 4AQ Carnival crafts, International Slavery Museum, L3 4AX Titanic - the night the lights went out, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Carnival Crafts 1-4PM, International Slavery Museum, L3 4AX Big Art Gallery: Parnet and Baby morning, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL

Shout, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Tour: Pre-Raphaelite paintings, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Paper Making 1-4PM, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Mark Lacey, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Dear To Wear: Glass Dresses by Diana Dias Leao, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Ged Ryan, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Talk: David Hockney: Polaroids, Pools and Painting, Walker Art Gallery L3 8EL Talk: A Feminine Touch: Elaine Tankard & the Tibet Collection , World Museum Liverpool Public lecture series: Roman discoveries, World Museum Liverpool, L3 8EN Talk: The little things that matter - invertebrate biodiversity, World Museum Liverpool MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304

NIGHTLIFE

27 28 29 30

MADE - Cross Stitch Club, 2-4 PM, 6 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304 Big Art activity: parent and baby morning, Walker Art Gallery , L3 8EL Tour: gallery highlights, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Walk for health, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Tour: John Moores Painting Prize, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL The Trunk Monkeys, Jack Rabbit Slims, Hoylake, CH47 3BS Tranmere vs Colchester, Tranmere Away Game, 3PM Jewellery making workshop, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Woodcarving, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Shipwreck ahoy, Sudley House, L18 8BX Mobile madness, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Mother Redcap, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Revealing activities, National Conservation Centre, L1 6HZ Shiver me timbers, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Biker Groove, Jack Rabbit Slims, Hoylake, CH47 3BS Monsters from the deep, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ The Armstrong and Miller Show, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Life at the Lady Lever tour, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Jewellery making workshop, Lady Lever Art Gallery, CH63 5EQ Storytelling with Customs, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Tales from Africa, International Slavery Museum, L3 4AX Titanic - the night the lights went out, Merseyside Maritime Museum, CH63 5EQ Karaoke, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Annie, Floral Pavilion Theatre, Marine Promenade, Wallasey, CH45 2JS Big Art activity: parent and baby morning, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Calendar Girls, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Big Art activity: parent and baby morning, Walker Art Gallery, L3 8EL Annie, Floral Pavilion Theatre, Marine Promenade, Wallasey, CH45 2JS Talk: George Holt - business man and collector, Sudley House, L18 8BX Calendar Girls, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Bristol Rovers vs Tranmere, Tranmere Away Game, 7.45PM Yozza, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Calendar Girls, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Annie, Floral Pavilion Theatre, Marine Promenade, Wallasey, CH45 2JS Gary Murphy, The Saddle Club, Wirral, CH43 3DB Calendar Girls, Liverpool Empire Theatre, L1 1JE Talk: Pre-Raphaelite paintings, Lady Lever Art Gallery, Ch63 5EQ Talk: The Archaeology of Sugar & Slavery in St Kitts & Nevis, World Museum Liverpool Talk: Ford Madox Brown, The last of England & physiognomy, World Museum Liverpool MADE - Knitting Group, 2-4 PM, 36 Seaview Road, Liscard. 0151 638 0304

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