www.thechallenge.co.uk
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY PAPER
Issue 310 March 2013
“SAVE A LOST GENERATION”
ritain’s leading youth enterprise charity, Young Enterprise, have launched a nationwide campaign to tackle youth unemployment in 10 of the UK’s worst-affected towns during 2013, including Knowsley. “Save a Lost Generation” is challenging firms to stop worrying about the quality of the young recruits coming out of schools - and instead go into the classroom and do something practical about it. Young Enterprise wants to help bosses donate time, money or expertise to give young people in Knowsley the practical skills and knowledge they need to take – or make – a job and help reduce the one million 16 to 24 year olds currently out of work. Last year Young Enterprise helped 227,000 young people from all backgrounds learn about business and the world of work in the classroom under the guidance of volunteers from 3,500 companies. Di Bainbridge, a teacher at the All Saints Centre for Learning, a local state school that runs the scheme says, “As a teacher I make it my mission to get young people involved. This is because they benefit so much from the experience of
B
Pupils from All Saints Catholic Centre for Learning, Kirkby who work with Young Enterprise
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
CLAIRE’S RALLY CALL TO WOMEN Page 6 FIRE HIT HALL TO BE RESTORED PAGE 5 LAST CALL FOR THE FIRST TIME BUYERS Page 7 WIN TICKETS FOR WRESTLING EVENT Page 8 WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH Pages 10/11 SHEILA OPENS NEW CHARITY SHOP IN CITY CENTRE Page16
the programme. It’s not just about the business and the business skills, it’s about the confidence that they gain whilst working on the programme. The students grow so much in a very short space of time and take everything that they have learnt
with them on their lifelong learning journey.” Mollie Guy Smith, 14, a student from the All Saints Centre for Learning said, “It’s amazing how at first you feel lost, but then after the competition you start to believe
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in what you’re doing. Your confidence builds when you’ve developed your product and your business plan and you know you’ve got it right. It’s not
• Continued on page 4
FOLLOW THE CHALLENGE ON FACEBOOK
4 The Challenge March 2013
TOM BOWS OUT
“SAVE A LOST GENERATION” • Continued from Page 1 being big headed, it’s about good business. I would tell everyone to go on the programme if they can; it was the best experience ever” Anthony Brown, Business Relations Manager for the North West and North Wales says, “Youth unemployment is still a serious problem in Knowsley. It is our responsibility to do something so that our young people have the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the working world. The Young Enterprise scheme is unique as students are matched up with business mentors and guided in running a real business
Photographer Tom Murphy is set to retire after 36 years of taking pictures for Mersey Mirror. He started in 1977 and with a small break in the early 80’s has popped up in just about every church and school in the Archdiocese. ‘Although I am stepping down from the hustle and bustle of the commercial world I hope still to do some work on a more leisurely basis,’ said Tom. ‘Having worked first for the Catholic Pictorial, then for the publishing house Mersey Mirror, which included The Challenge, I’m feeling my age now and have to step aside from that busy lifestyle.’ ‘Giving up taking pictures is something I don’t think I can do,’ continued Tom, ‘so having worked happily and willingly for others it’s now time to do something for myself. I’d like to take this opportunity thank the thousands of people I have photographed or dealt with over the fifty years I have been taking pictures, from the very famous to the truly humble. ‘Thank you all for everything, and I hope to see you again soon,’ said Tom.
ARE YOU READY TO TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE? Would you like to get more active but need a goal to spur you on? Why not join in this year’s Knowsley Active Challenge? Entry forms are now available for the event which takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Knowsley Hall on Wednesday, June 12, from 6pm. It includes a 5k run for adults, starting at 7.15pm, which is for individuals and teams. The teams need to be made up of four people, one of whom must be a woman. It costs £30 for a team to enter and £7.50 for an individual and the run is suitable for all abilities. There will also be a 3 and 8 kilometre walk on the evening and a 2 kilometre run for children. The 3k walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The 2k run is for children aged 8 to 16. The walks begin at 6pm. The junior run begins at 6.15pm. These events are free to enter. There are prizes for the winners and a medal for everyone who finishes. To get an application form contact Peter Green on 0151 443 5648 or email him at peter.green@knowsley.gov.uk. You can also download a form from the Knowsley website, www.knowsley.gov.uk, click on Things to See and Do and then on Active Knowsley Challenge on the menu on the left hand side of the page.
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PROTESTS AS COUNCIL APPROVE 300 JOBS CUTS Dozens of people gathered outside Knowsley council’s headquarters recently to protest as council members approved plans to cut more than 300 jobs. The rally, organised by Unite the union and community groups, took place ahead of the council's budget meeting at the Municipal Buildings in Huyton. All budget proposals were passed at the meeting by the full council, including increasing charges across council services and council tax contributions from people on benefits. Leisure centre opening hours will also be reduced by 88 hours a week and the council will stop its school clothing grant. Whiston and Page Moss libraries will shut and opening hours at other libraries will be reduced. Car parking charges will also be increased and people attending adult day services and older people’s day services will be asked to pay for their transport. Up to four children’s centres and five linked sites will close as the council prioritises “front line delivery rather than buildings”. Despite having to find more than £37m in savings, the council said it also hoped to invest in supporting businesses, helping residents access housing and raising achievement in schools.
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for a year. If we can get more local business leaders and schools involved we can really make a difference in the Knowsley community.” Michael Mercieca, Young Enterprise Chief Executive, says, “We are launching this campaign because we sense there is a deep and growing concern for the future of young people in Britain today and we recognise Knowsley as a key area. If nothing is done we are facing a real danger that a whole generation of young people in Knowsley will be out of work. We must act now to equip young people with the skills that will help them gain meaningful employment or create their own businesses to stop what could be a devastating future for this city. We want to help talented individuals in Knowsley create opportunities for themselves and others.” Mr Mercieca continues: “We want to put out a rallying cry to business in Knowsley to help “Save a Lost Generation” and give the young community an opportunity to shine. If we don’t act now, it will be too late.” Businesses and schools interested in participating in the scheme should contact Anthony Brown on M: 07841880977, E: anthony.brown@y-e.org.uk
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The Challenge March 2013 5
KIRKBY MAN JAILED OVER BENEFIT FRAUD A Kirkby man has been jailed for falsely claiming £74,000 in benefits he wasn’t entitled to. Michael Dunne had fraudulently claimed Housing and Council Tax benefit, income support and incapacity benefit since April 2000. A joint investigation by Knowsley Council and the Department for Work and Pensions found the 58-year-old, of St Peters Close in Kirkby, had been in employment since December 2000. He was given a 40 weeks custodial sentence and ordered to repay the money. A spokesperson for Knowsley Council said: “It is completely unacceptable to claim money you are not entitled to, particularly at a time when public funds are so scarce. “Money that is claimed fraudulently is money that could be used for the benefit of the whole community. “If anyone suspects that someone is falsely claiming benefits they are not entitled to, they can call our Fraud Hotline anonymously on 0800 0730 532”.
FIRE-HIT HALL RESTORED AFTER 60 YEARS
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The Maggie O’Neill Community Resource Centre A wing of Liverpool’s famous Croxteth Hall damaged by fire more than 60 years ago is to brought back into use and made available to the public. The Queen Anne or south-west wing of the hall was hit by a catastrophic blaze in December 1952. Although the exterior was retained much of the interior was gutted and has remained out of bounds since then. Now two of the rooms, next to the old dining room are to be restored and brought back into public use in a £400,000 programme, funded through the Croxteth Estate Endowment Trust Fund. Work will include plastering, installing wood paneling, new windows and lighting along with a major decoration scheme to make them look as stylish as the original. The work has been agreed with English Heritage. As well as restoring the rooms to their elegant décor, an extra bar and further toilet will be provided. This will allow the hall’s library and old dining room along with the restored rooms to be hired-out for weddings and other functions. It is estimated that at least £140,000 a year will be raised through the additional facilities at the hall, generating much needed extra income. Joe Anderson, the Mayor of Liverpool, said: “Croxteth Hall is one of
Liverpool’s biggest attractions and this restoration work will open it up to an even wider audience. It is not going to add anything to our budget as it is being paid for through an endowment fund set up for work such as this. “We are ensuring one of Liverpool’s historic buildings is going to be used to a much greater extent than it ever has been.” “While the income will, of course, be very welcome, it is perhaps more significant that we are bringing an important part of the city’s heritage back into use after 60 years,” said Councillor Peter Mitchell, mayoral lead on parks and open spaces. “Croxteth Hall is a very popular attraction for visitors and this latest development will make it even more attractive for wedding parties, conferences and other events. “The Queen Anne wing is regarded as the most interesting part of the hall architecturally and it is 300 years old. It has never been fully open for public use but now we are going to have access to much more of it for the first time in over 60 years.” Work is expected to start in spring and be completed in the summer this year. Artist’s impressions and plans of the restored wing will be on show at the hall.
Conference and office space for hire at competitive prices. Newly refurbished facilities offer excellent space at excellent prices Close to the M62 and M57 Maggie O’Neill CRC provides a central location and great access to local amenities Services include wi-fi, reception, parking space, refectory, IT facilities and fully modernised work areas.
For more information please contact Leanne Hawley on 07722001031 or email: leannechawley@aol.com Maggie O’Neill CRC 433 Liverpool Road, Huyton L36 8HT
6 The Challenge March 2013
Rebound Adult Fitness Classes in Huyton
Monday: 10-11am Nifty 50’s - a low impact keep fit class for anyone aged 50+ 11.15-12.15 Yoga - an open yoga class for all ages and abilities Wednesday: 10-11am Line Dancing - a fun, friendly class open to everyone
MELLING CANCER SURVIVOR RALLIES WOMEN TO RACE FOR LIFE IN KNOWSLEY go for scans every three months. Claire, who has a 15-year-old daughter Brianna, said: “Going through all that treatment wasn't easy – but I remained really positive throughout. The hardest part for me was losing all my hair, it really upset me and when this happened it really did hit me that I had cancer. “But, I am just so glad that I am a survivor. I came out the other side and feel proud that I beat the disease.”
Claire White (right) and daughter Brianna at the 2012 Race for Life
Thursday: 6-7pm Yoga - an open yoga class for all ages and abilities Everyone welcome - just come along in comfortable clothing
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A Melling woman who has survived cancer is making a stand against the disease by entering Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life. And Claire White, aged 44, wants every woman in Merseyside to join her. The mum-of-one, who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma two years ago, is issuing the rallying cry ‘Cancer, we’re coming to get you’ as she urges women of all ages to join her by signing up now for the event which takes place at Knowsley Hall on Wednesday July 17 at 7:30pm. Every hour, around four people are diagnosed with cancer in the north west. And that’s why mums, daughters, sisters and friends of every shape and size are needed to join together as a formidable army and take on cancer at Knowsley Hall. Claire said: “It was a terrible shock when I was diagnosed with cancer. I just couldn’t believe it was happening to me.” She first noticed something was wrong in March 2011 when she found a lump under her arm. Although it was causing her no pain Claire decided to go along and see her GP to have it checked out. Claire was immediately referred to Aintree Hospital in Liverpool for a mammogram and in April 2011, just weeks before her 41st birthday, she was dealt the devastating news that she had Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system. In May 2011, Claire started her treatment – chemotherapy for the first two months, followed by radiotherapy throughout July and August, at Aintree Hospital. And, in December 2011 she was given the all-clear and now continues to
A group of women from the pharmaceutical company that Claire works for in Speke, Eli-Lilly, have taken part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life for the past ten years, raising in excess of £50,000. Last year they did Race for Life for Claire. She said: “I’ve done Race for Life a few times now – but last year it was really emotional. Not only had I been through cancer, but all my colleagues had my name on their backs. My daughter took part also and when I saw the words ‘I’m running for my mum’ on her back it really got to me.” She added: “Taking part in Race for Life is my way of fighting back against cancer. I’m so grateful for the research that has helped me and now I want to help others by supporting Cancer Research UK’s work.” Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life in partnership with Tesco is an inspiring women-only series of events which raises millions of pounds every year to help defeat cancer by funding lifesaving research. Although the number of people being diagnosed with cancer is going up largely due to the fact that people are living longer and cancer is predominantly a disease of old age the good news is that, thanks to research, survival rates have doubled in the past 40 years. More people across the North West are now beating the disease than ever before. Laura Taylor, Cancer Research UK’s North West Events Manager, said: “Come on ladies, please join Claire and play your part by entering Race for Life in Knowsley today. Together, we can hit cancer where it hurts! “There are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all. It’s fighting talk and we mean every word we say. Cancer, Knowsley is coming to get you.” By raising money through Race for Life, people in the North West are helping Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists make advances in research which will help more men, women and children survive. To enter Race for Life today go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.
The Challenge March 2013 7
LAST CHANCE FOR TICKETS FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS SHOW 2013 First-time buyers looking to take the plunge in 2013 have just a few days left to get their tickets for the First Time Buyers Show, to be held at the BT Convention centre. The event offers free, impartial advice to anyone looking to get on to the property ladder and would-be buyers will get the chance to climb the first rung with some of the best properties in Knowsley and Liverpool on offer at affordable prices. Swedish home giant IKEA is sponsoring the show and has also taken out a stand at the event, which is hosted by HomesHub. First time buyers attending the show will get access to first-rate design advice courtesy of IKEA and the retailer will also be offering one lucky attendee at the show £1,000 to spend at IKEA. Sarah Walmsley, local marketing manager at IKEA Warrington says: “We know that whilst buying your first home can be exciting it can also be hard work and expensive. This £1,000 prize will really help a first time buyer at the show kit out their new home and we’re really looking forward to the draw and the event.” The show features a host of big names including Riverside Home Ownership, Barratt Homes, Countryside Properties and David Wilson Homes. The First Time Buyers Show takes place on Saturday 23 March from 10am till 4pm at the BT Convention Centre. Free tickets can be downloaded at www.firsttimebuyersshow.com or contact Fiona Barnet on 0151 709 3871 for more information.
Hundreds of properties on show across the region
Saturday 23 March 2013 BT Convention Centre Liverpool Echo Arena L3 4FP 10.00am - 4.00pm SPONSORED BY
IN ASSOCIATION WITH IKEA
EXPERT ADVICE ON • Getting on the property ladder • Specialist mortgage advice • Legal advice • Low cost home ownership options • New Homes from across the region
Download your free ticket at www.firsttimebuyersshow.com For more information please contact Jo Tait on 0151 709 3871 or jo@movepublishing.co.uk
Organised by HomesHub, the government’s HomeBuy Agent for Merseyside and Cheshire, and supported by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA)
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The Challenge March 2013
POLICE CAR OWNERS WARNING Police in Knowsley are reminding motorists to lock their vehicles at night and keep valuables out of sight after an increase in thefts from motor vehicles over the last couple of months. One of the main reasons for this is owners of vehicles leaving them insecure, often overnight with valuables on display. Since the beginning of February there have been 28 thefts from vehicles some of which had been left open, insecure, un-alarmed or even unattended with the engine running. Recently a handbag was stolen from a car in Huyton, a sat-nav being taken from a vehicle in Halewood and a mobile taken from a vehicle in Kirkby. All three vehicles had been left insecure. Chief Inspector Kevin Wellens from the Knowsley Police command team made an appeal for the public’s help in preventing these crimes. He said: “People are leaving cars unlocked overnight outside their house and having them stolen while in bed. Or they are failing to activate their alarms or immobilisers, or, in some cases, even leaving their keys in plain sight. “This is making it far too easy for opportunistic thieves to get away with their car with minimal fuss. “Far too many people are still leaving their valuables on display as well. Sat navs are being left attached to the windscreen, purses and wallets are being left on the seat, mobiles and
the keys in the ignition or on display. “Keep sat navs locked away and out of sight, or better still, take them out of the car with you, along with your cash and anything of value. Park your car in busy, well-lit streets, close to your home and always activate your alarm and any other security features. “Taking just a few seconds do all this will save you the hours of stress associated with suffering an incident of car crime”. Police are also reminding motorists that it is an offence to leave a vehicle unattended with the engine running on a road and if it is stolen while the keys are in the ignition it is possible that the theft would not be covered by insurance. electronics too. Thieves will think nothing of smashing a window to get at them, leaving the owner with a hefty repair bill and the stress of having their valuables stolen. “The police will do all we can to investigate these crimes and catch the offenders but the public can help us stop it from happening in the first place. “We are working hard to combat these thefts but need the support of the community in preventing these crimes. Please help us by removing all valuables from your vehicles and keep them secure at all times “Always lock your car, no matter how quick you intend to be, and never leave
Drivers should take the following advice to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car theft: • Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running • Always lock and secure your vehicle and check windows and sunroof are closed • Never leave anything on display in your vehicle • Mobile phones, coats, bags, sat navs and CDs are all a potential target for thieves take all valuables with you If you have any information about a crime in your area please call Merseyside Police on 101.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Are you interested in gardening, KPAC are looking for volunteers to work on their allotments. KPAC has three raised beds that need some planting and maintaining. Just a few hours a week to help them look after the allotments. You can contact Tracey Bennett or Joanna Lawrence on 0151 481 0047.
WRITE ABOUT WAR AND PEACE FOR A £100 PRIZE The Prescot Festival Short Story Competition is now open to writers of all ages across Merseyside. The contest, now in its second year, awards a £100 prize to the author of the best short story. To inspire writers, the theme for 2013 is “War and Peace”, which authors can interpret any way they choose. Last year Maureen McEvoy, from Haydock, scooped top prize for “Last Train from Lime Street”, a tale of a college reunion with a twist ending. Entry is free and open to all Merseyside residents (excluding professionally published fiction writers), with no age restrictions. Stories must be no longer than 1,000 words, original and unpublished, and based on or inspired by the theme “War and Peace”. Full information and contest rules are available at www.prescotfestival.co.uk
CHALLENGE COMPETITION WIN AMERICAN WRESTLING LIVE FAMILY TICKETS A Big Time American Wrestling Extravaganza featuring Who’s The Real Champion Over The Top Rope Rumble Spectacular as seen on T.V. will take place at: HUYTON CIVIC SUITE ON SATURDAY 6th APRIL AT 7.30PM Live in action will be Rocky Steele, TNA’s Johnny Moss, Road Warrior, Masked Destroyers, Crusher Brannigan, Kangaroo Kid, Mr Tank and The High Flying Valkabious. The worlds hottest family show is set to enthrall fans with all your favourite champions and challengers - This is your chance to witness all of the drama and excitement this great night out has to offer in front of your very own eyes - cheer the goodies and boo the baddies. Traditional Family Entertainment - NOT TO BE MISSED 3 Family Tickets (Admitting 4 People each) to be won. Question: Where will the American Wrestling Extravaganza take place? Send your entries on a postcard with your name and address and a contact number to: The Challenge Wrestling Competition, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS or email: thechallenge@merseymrror.com Entries close on Friday 22 March 2013
The Challenge March 2013
KNOWSLEY MARKS NO SMOKING DAY Knowsley residents looking to get help and support to quit smoking this year can attend a free event being held in the Borough on National No Smoking Day, Wednesday 13 March. A team of trained advisors from the Roy Castle Fag Ends service will be on hand at Asda in Huyton between 10am and 4pm offering free advice about NHS stop smoking support services available in Knowsley and tips about taking the first steps towards quitting smoking for good. No appointment is needed and people will also be offered a free breath test which shows levels of carbon monoxide (a poisonous gas in cigarette smoke) in the body. The cancer awareness vehicle iVan will also be at the event with the team of Cancer Information Specialists who can provide free, confidential advice about smoking and cancer. The event is suitable for anyone who has any questions about their own smoking habits or those of a friend or family member. For more information visit www.stopsmoking.org.uk
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ROLLER DISCOS ARE BACK! Roller Discos are back in Knowsley – by popular demand! Hundreds of people turned out for a Funky Valentine’s roller disco event at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park. It was a big success - the children’s session sold out – so the leisure and culture development team have arranged two more. They’ll be held at the Leisure and Culture Park in Longview Drive, Huyton, on Saturday April 13 and Saturday July 27. The sessions are as follows: 2-4pm – families (all ages) 5-7pm – families (all ages) 7.30pm-9.30pm – Adults over 18 years – licensed bar facilities available.
If you’re new to the idea, you hire roller skates and take to the floor to the latest tunes. You can also request your favourite tracks from the DJ. You can also come in fancy dress if that takes your fancy. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Adults can stay and don’t need a ticket if they’re not taking part. Tickets are just £6 and include the hire of skates and two hours skating to disco music. Buy 10 and you get one ticket free. Places are limited and its best to book. Call into Knowsley Leisure and Culture (L to r) Liam Godfrey, age 12, sister Yasmine, age 10, and friend John Park or book your tickets by McLoughlin, age 13 at the roller disco at Knowsley Leisure and Culture calling 0151 443 2200. Park.
COURSES AND ACTIVITIES IN STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE For advise on Managing your Money and the opportunity to open a basic bank account - Tuesday 19th March 1pm to 3.30pm. To book a place please contact babara.murray@villages.org.uk – 0151 949 5021 BRIDGES – Youth Conference Wednesday 3rd April, Thursday 4th April & Friday 5th April Planning for Summer Youth Festival. Will take place across different venues in Stockbridge Village and Mab Lane Liverpool For more details contact barbara.murray@villages.org.uk – 0151 949 5021 Squash Nutrition – Community activities in Stockbridge Village Bee-Keeping for Beginners : starts on Sunday 21st April for 5 weeks: 2 - 4pm
Ring Kath on 07811 957578 or 0151 707 7897 to book a place Thursday March 21st: 10 – 12 noon Village Farm Friends will be at Stockbridge Village Community Cafe – pop in for a chat a snack and see what blossoms Sunday March 24th: 11 – 1 pm Community Orchard Planting in St Albert’s Church – orchard planting and celebration – all welcome! EXTENDING HORIZONS - Two FREE Workshops Tue 2nd April 9.30-12.30 & Friday 5th April 9.30-12.30 Venue: Stockbridge Village School Help to make those changes you’ve always wanted to make. Contact Innovate on 07932235562 to book at place.
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The Challenge March 2013
Challenge
What’s On Guide www.thechallenge.co.uk March Friday 15 March
Murder Mystery Night Croxteth Hall 7.30pm til late. In Victorian times, Lord and Lady Sefton used to perform fun, informal ‘at home plays’ for their guests; the Hall’s intimate Murder Mystery Evenings in partnership with ‘Love History’ continue this tradition. The event will be help in the Hall's library. Here you will ponder, speculate and try to catch the killer. Tickets cost £25 each, which includes a hot buffet. A late pay bar is available. These tickets must be purchased in advance, and will sell out quickly. To avoid disappointment and get your hands on yours book on-line direct with LoveHistory, or call 0151 287 4798 Saturday 16 March Kite Making 1-3pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton Learn how to make your own kite and have a go at flying it in the park. Let’s hope for windy weather! All materials provided. For more information contact the South Huyton Ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843 Saturday 16 March Kite Making 10 – 12 pm Jubilee Park Pavilion. Lincombe Road, Huyton Learn how to make your own kite and have a go at flying it in the park. Let’s hope for windy weather! All materials provided free of charge. For more information contact the North Huyton Ranger on 07766 205541. Sunday 17 March St Patrick's Night Croxteth Hall host a Lovehistory’s Irish Liverpool: Revealing the History of Irish Migration 6.00pm. This theatrical production will take place in the grandeur of Croxteth Hall on St Patricks Day and will commemorate of all those who lost their lives in the Great Famine of the 1840s.This thoughtful and captivating dramatisation will take you on a journey through the passages of Liverpool's Irish ancestry. They will sell out quickly, so to avoid disappointment please purchase on-line as soon as possible, or call 0151 287 4798 between 10am and 3pm. Sunday 17 March Kite Making 10 – 12 pm KGV Playing Fields, Huyton Lane Learn how to make your own kite
and have a go at flying it in the park. Let’s hope for windy weather! All materials provided free of charge. For more information contact the North Huyton Ranger on 07766 205541. Sunday 17 March Kite Making 1-3pm McGoldrick Park, Rydal Road, Huyton Learn how to make your own kite and have a go at flying it in the park. Let’s hope for windy weather! All materials provided. Tuesday 19 March Bird Box Making 10 - 12pm Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane, Whiston Come and join the Ranger and make homes for our feathered friends. All equipment supplied. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. Tuesday 19 March Bird Box Making 1.30 – 3pm Cronton Pastures, Hall Lane, Cronton Come and join the Ranger and make homes for our feathered friends. All equipment supplied. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. Wednesday 20 March Lamplight Tour 6.00pm Lovehistory are proud to present their lamplight tour which is held at the famous Croxteth Hall. Built in 1575 and ancestral home to the Molyneux family, the Earls of Sefton, this haunting and enchanting building will leave you breathless. This stunning tour, led by the timeless glow of a lamplight, will take you through the eerie corridors of time where you will encounter the characters from the past who will share with you their tales and their secrets. The tour lasts for approximately one hour and promises to be entertaining and enthralling! Tickets cost £10.00 for adults and £8.00 for children / senior citizens (event suitable for children aged 8 and over). Tickets can be booked on-line www.lovehistory.co.uk or for by calling 0151 287 4798 between 10.00am and 3.00pm. Friday 22 March Luncheon for Ladies Knowsley Community College Luncheon for Ladies hosted by The Mayor of Knowsley’s Charity Committee. Cost to enter: £13.50 Saturday 23 March Conservation Task Day 10 – 12pm Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane, Whiston Free Event. Help the rangers in conservation tasks around the park. Meet at the Rangers’ hut. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. Saturday 23 March Winter Crafts 1.30 - 3pm Cronton Pastures, Hall Lane, Cronton Art and craft activity for all the family using natural materials from the park. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. Sunday 24 March Winter Crafts 10 – 12pm Henley Park, Whiston Art and craft activity for all the family using
The Challenge March 2013
natural materials from the park. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. Sunday 24 March Winter Crafts 1.30 - 3pm Eaton Street Park, Prescot Art and craft activity for all the family using natural materials from the park. For more information contact the Rangers on 0151 489 1239. For more information contact the South Huyton Ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843 Friday March 29 to Sunday April 14 Croxteth Hall Easter Egg Hunt (Inside Croxteth Hall) 10.30am 5.00pm (last admission 4.30pm) Great literacy fun for younger children and parents - find all the hidden Easter eggs (pictures) on your visit round the Hall rooms and enter the letters on the worksheet provided. Mums and Dads will help you unscramble them to find the seasonal answer! All correct answers will be entered into a prize draw. This is an 'Added Value' event normal Hall admission prices apply. Friday 26 April Beyond the 4th Wall 1.30pm and 7pm Comic drama, by Loud and Proud Arts, and Award Winning North West writer Cathy Crabb, directed by Tom Hogan. The play is about people with disabilities being cared for in a
perfect paradise cul de sac and what this means to them. Will they go beyond the 4th wall? Will they like what they find in the outside world? Can they survive without their perfect paradise cul de sac where all their wants and needs are catered for? (Contains some strong language). Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park. Tickets are £6.00 and available at the centre or by calling 0151 443 2200. General Enquiries and group bookings 0151 443 5749. Wednesday 12 June The Knowsley Active Challenge 2013 Takes place at Knowsley Hall, beginning at 6pm. The event includes three and eight kilometre walks, a two kilometre run for children and a five kilometre run or walk for adults. The 3k walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The 2k run is for children aged eight to 16. Walks begin at 6pm. The junior run begins at 6.15pm. These events are free to enter. The 5k run for adults begins at 7.15pm and is for individuals and groups representing businesses or organisations. Groups should be made up of four people, one of whom must be a woman. Costs are £7.50 for individual enty and £30 for group entry. The run is suitable for all abilities. For more information, contact Peter Green on 0151 443 5648 or email peter.green@knowsley.gov.uk.
YOUTH DANCE AND THEATRE IN KNOWSLEY Youth dance Who to contact: Arts and Heritage Service Prescot Museum 34 Church Street Prescot L34 3LA. Telephone: 0151 443 5619 Email: arts.unit@knowsley.gov.uk We run fantastic dance workshops each week for children and young people. You don’t need to be the best dancer, even two left feet is fine! Just turn up and have fun. Street Dance Groups When: Every Saturday. Where: Halewood Leisure Centre, Baileys Lane, Halewood. Time: 2pm-4pm. For who: 11+ years. £1.50 per session Street Feet When: Every Friday. Where: Huyton Arts & Sports Centre for Learning, Seal Road, Huyton. Time: 5.30pm-7pm (ages 8-11 years) 7pm-8.30pm (ages 12-18 years). For who: 8-18 years £1.50 per session
EVENTS AT THE WILDFLOWER CENTRE Friday 22 March The BIG DIG Cost: Free. The Big Dig 11am - 4pm. Come along and join us here at the Centre for a day of gardening. We will be digging, planting and working on the display gardens around site. You'll also have a chance to learn more about the volunteer programmes we have available. For more information about the day please call Annick on 0151 738 1913 Wednesday 27 March Making an Impact Cost: Free. Take part in Ailie Rutherford’s residency at the National Wildflower Centre. As part of ‘Making an Impact’ outreach project, artist Ailie Rutherford will be taking on a four week residencey here at the Centre. During this time, participants will be able to take part in creating a model of the future, by communicating with the plants... This event is open to all to participate, please just turn up to the Wildflower Centre between 10am and 2pm on the following dates: Wednesday 27th March, Thursday 28th March, Wednesday 3rd April, Thursday 4th April. For further information email crafts@bluecoatdisplaycentre.com
Contact details: Please feel free to call if you need any further details. Contact: Leanne Jones at Knowsley Arts Service on 0151 443 5619. Knowsley Children’s & Youth Theatre Who to contact: Leanne Jones, Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service. Telephone: 0151 443 5619. Knowsley children’s and youth theatre meet every week and groups take part in workshops, trips and residentials, and create lots of fresh and exciting performances throughout the year. All youth theatre groups are constantly involved in new and exciting weird and wonderful projects, and any young person (ages 7+) can come along and make friends, have fun and take part, even if they’re new to drama! Huyton Children’s & Youth Theatre When: Every Monday Where: Huyton Arts & Sports Centre for Learning, Seel Road, Huyton Time: 5 – 7pm (ages 7 – 11) & 7 – 9pm (ages 12 – 19) For who: ages 719 years. Sessions are £1 per person. Halewood Youth Theatre When: Every Tuesday Where: Halewood Centre for Learning, The Avenue, Halewood Time: -pm For who: ages 1219 years Sessions are £1 per person Kirkby Children’s & Youth Theatre When: Every Wednesday Where: Kirkby Sports College, Bracknell Avenue, Kirkby Time : 6.30-7.30pm (ages 7-11 years) & 7.30-9pm (ages 12-19 years) Sessions are £1 per person Times, dates and venues can vary so please contact us for up-to-date details.
SONAE FIRE JUNE 2011 Kirkby residents who have suffered ill health as a consequence of the 2011 industrial fires will welcome recent news that Sonae has now admitted liability. Sonae will be required to pay compensation to those who can prove that they have suffered injury and loss.
If you are a local resident, if you have suffered ill health as a result the 2011 fires, then come and speak with us.
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THE BIG WALK FOR HALEWOOD TOWN A team of parents from Halewood Town under 8’s football team recently undertook a big challenge, when they endeavour to walk approx 28 miles from Halewood Rangers Centre to Southport Pier, along the Trans Pennine Trail route. The funds raised will also be used to pay for training courses on how to use the machine, and various people associated with Halewood Town Football Club. Simon Clifton, walk organiser, said: “Managers, helpers, referee’s etc will be offered places on the course, so we can provide adequately trained people whilst the football is taking place. Any monies left over from their fundraising will be used to supply the team with new equipment and trips away. “We are now looking for forward thinking people like you to invest in the safety of the children by sponsoring us. “The walk started at 6am at Halewood Rangers centre, Okell Drive and finished 28 miles later at Southport pier taking a total of 9hrs. “All of the 10 dads led by the team manager Lee Campbell started and finished together, all in good spirits and good health (apart from the many blisters!!). “When they arrived in Southport, they were greeted by many well wishers, including the wives and the kids from the team, who walked the final mile, with their dads”. During the walk, they had a mention from City FM during the football phone in, and where live on Radio Merseyside during the Roger Lyon show.
Simon said: “All in all it was a very enjoyable day and for a very worthwhile cause. “Funds are continuing to roll in and the defibrillator and training will be paid for out of the money raised,
and donated to the Arncliffe sports centre, Halewood. “The defibrillator will be available for all activities taking place there including the hundreds of children that play football every weekend”.
If you would like to make a donation/sponsorship, you can contact Lee Campbell on 07966 590602; Simon Clifton on 07967 374043 or John Ross 07565 245151.
PRESCOT FESTIVAL MERSEYSIDE MPS LAUNCH INVESTIGATION CELEBRATES 100 INTO EXPLOITATIVE ZERO-HOUR CONTRACTS YEARS OF BRITTEN A Merseyside arts festival is marking the Benjamin Britten centenary with a performance of one of the composer’s most famous works later this year. The Wirral Symphony Orchestra will play Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes as part of the Prescot Festival in June, along with Elgar’s celebrated Cello Concerto (soloist Gethyn Jones) and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8. The occasion is just one of many around the world this year, as singers, musicians and concertgoers commemorate 100 years since Britten’s birth. The 10-day programme also features the Liverpool Harmonic Gospel Choir, the much-loved musical theatre company BOST, and the songsters and band of the Salvation Army, celebrating 125 years of the church in the town. Other highlights of the week include Young Instrumentalist of Prescot and the Prescot Festival Short Story Competition, both in their second year following successful launches in 2012. “The festival is all about putting the best of local arts and music on display in a way that’s affordable and accessible for everyone”, said Artistic Director Dr Robert Howard, who founded the Prescot Festival in 2005. “There are lots of ways to get involved, whether you want to participate yourself or just watch and listen”. The Ninth Annual Prescot Festival takes place from Friday 21 to Sunday 30 June 2013 in the historic Lancashire town of Prescot, Merseyside. More information, including the full programme, is available at www.prescotfestival.co.uk
Three Merseyside MPs have launched an investigation into the impact of zero-hour contracts. Zero-hour contracts are used by employers so that employees’ hours of work are not guaranteed. The three MPs are concerned that this employment practice can cause huge difficulties for employees. Many see hours of work cancelled at the last minute, or are forced to work longer hours which impact on childcare arrangements. Fluctuating hours can cause problems for people claiming Tax Credits, often resulting in huge overpayments which need to be repaid to HM Revenue and Customs. The MPs are launching the investigation to find out people’s experiences. They hope to use the results to highlight the range and scale of the problem to Government and to develop a code of practice for responsible companies to sign up to. George Howarth said: “Currently, many well-known companies – mainly though not exclusively through agencies – are employing people on either zero hour, casual or short-term contracts in order to evade employment rights.
George Howarth MP for Knowsley North In November 2012, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) stated that under-employment had risen by 47% - one million extra peoplesince 2008, with young people and low paid workers more likely to be affected than other workers. People want to work but zero hour contracts can be exploitative.”
Alison McGovern said: “I am from Merseyside, and recall my grandparents telling me about the damage done by casual working practices many years ago – including in dock areas like ours. “Campaigners then rightly stood up for security in employment, and against the fear created by the worst cases of employment practice. “Therefore, while some will choose the flexibility offered by certain contracts, can we also assist people who would rather have more permanent, stable employment?” Luciana Berger said: “As someone who has been employed on a zero-hour contract before I know that while they can offer flexibility to some, for others they can cause huge challenges. “We know that one in ten workers in the UK is now officially underemployed and as MPs we see countless constituents who have experienced problems because they are trapped on zero-hour contracts. “I have met with several constituents who owe large amounts to HMRC because fluctuating hours have meant their Tax Credits were incorrectly estimated”.
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LOCAL COMPANY DOING THEIR BIT FOR COMIC RELIEF Comic Relief is upon us once again and staff who work in Knowsley for Connex Education are determined to raise as much money as possible for this great cause. The Managing Director of Connex Education Mr Mark Beedles has agreed that the company will donate 50p for every like their Facebook page receives, so get liking! Mark said: “Tell your friends and family; tell you teachers and your pupils so that together we can raise lots of money for Comic Relief.” To add fun to the campaign, Connex has come up with a great way to make their fans laugh. The Facebook page has a voting system, with a choice of antics such as custard pie in face, dance off, bush tucker trial and man verses food. The frolic that obtains the most votes will be carried out by the staff in the true atmosphere of comedy, all of which will be filmed and have photographic evidence! All antics will be put out to the social networks with an announcement on the amount of money raised. Mark said: “It is so simple to take part, go to www.facebook.com/connexforschools LIKE (this is important at this act raises the money for Comic Relief) and then follow the red nose and vote! This is a fledgling Facebook page that has just eight Likes at present so let’s get that number up through the roof!” Paul Birchall Branch Manager for Liverpool said,
“We often raise money for good causes, and this time we are determined to contribute to Comic Relief!” Connex supply teachers and teaching assistants into schools across Knowsley, and are so determined to raise money that they will be emailing schools to encourage them to take part and encourage all their staff to do the same. The more LIKES they get the more money and fun can be had in the process. For more information on this money raising extravaganza or any information about Connex Education you can call the local office on 0151 320 2727 or visit their website at www.connex-education.com
KNITTERS HELP THE HOMELESS Residents in Whiston have knitted hats and scarves to help keep homeless people warm during the cold winter months. The knitters from South Avenue Sheltered Scheme, run by Knowsley Housing Trust, part of the First Ark Group, have donated their woollen creations to the Missionaries of Charity in Liverpool who will give them to the homeless people they support.
Do you want to eat, smoke or drink less and move more? Our FREE NHS Lifestyle Advisors can help Eating too much and exercising too little? Drinking to excess or smoking? We understand it can be difficult to make lifestyle changes, even when you know you’d feel better in body and mind. That’s why we offer a listening ear and a helping hand to help you to achieve your goals. If you’re aged 18 or over and living in Knowsley or registered with a Knowsley GP we can help you to:
• cut back or cut out cigarettes • make better food choices • reduce your alcohol intake • exercise more • find out about other NHS, local authority, commercial and voluntary services in Knowsley. We’re based throughout the area at various locations including Primary Care Resource Centres, and can offer morning, afternoon or evening appointments to suit you. Whether you’d like a face-to-face chat; call
For more information on Community Health Services in Knowsley call the Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 073 0578 or visit www.5boroughspartnership.nhs.uk
over the phone, or to receive some information through the post, we’ll tailor our support to your needs. You can access our help through your local GP and
any other health professional, or call us directly on tel: 0800 073 1202 / 0151 289 9555. You can also email health.trainers@5bp.nhs.uk
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DAVIES BASHES BANKERS’ BONUSES
CADETS GET RISKED ASSESSED Yet another qualification is in store for the cadets at 1982 (Huyton) Squadron, as two members of staff successfully complete the ELA Hazard Awareness Volunteer Tutor Course. Pilot Officer Ian Raynor and Sergeant Greg Jennings both successfully completed the course ran at RAF Woodvale, enabling them to tutor cadets in the Entry Level Award in Hazard Awareness Qualification. Alongside this they also completed the Risk Assessment Competency Course which will enable them to assist the Squadron Health and Safety Officer and other staff in completing thorough risk assessments prior to training
activities. Sergeant Greg Jennings commented, “This is a really good qualification for the cadets to achieve, it promotes awareness of Health & Safety and can be completed by new members of the squadron within their first few nights.” He continued “It is also something that in the future will look good on their CV!” Huyton Squadron Air Cadets covers part of the South Liverpool area and offers a host of opportunities to local youngsters aged 13 and over. To find out more about Huyton Air Cadets visit our website at www.1982.org.uk or call the squadron 0151 449 3012, Tuesday and Thursday 7:00pm till 9:30pm.
Measures to limit the size of bankers' bonuses are long overdue, according to a Knowsley Euro-MP. New EU financial rules are to limit the bonuses that can be paid to bankers to 100% of their salary. MEPs and most European governments want to avoid the risk of more banking failures caused by short term thinking and greed. Liberal Democrat Chris Davies said that the measures will not be thought tough enough by
most people. He said: "A banker being paid £5 million a year could still get another £5 million on top of that just for doing his job. "It's one thing to celebrate success, but quite another to support arrangements that brought Europe's economy to its knees." Davies criticised Chancellor George Osborne for trying to prevent any limits being introduced. He said: "I'm delighted that it was a
Liberal Democrat MEP who led the way in bringing in this measure, and equally delighted that our Conservative representatives were outvoted 26-1 by ministers from other countries." "Bankers have behaved insanely, and yet walked off with their pockets full of money." The new EU financial rules require banks to hold greater sums of capital in reserve to reduce the risk of a collapse.
NEW HOME FOR PUBLIC HEALTH From April, Public Health in Knowsley will transfer to the council. The change itself won’t directly impact on you, or how you access services, but it will further enhance the long-term health benefits for Knowsley communities. What is Public Health? Public Health helps people to stay healthy and avoid getting ill. This includes:• Early years and school age health • Helping people make better lifestyle decisions on issues such as alcohol & drugs use, smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and sexual health issues • Screening and the early detection of diseases • Mental health and wellbeing • Making healthy living easier – by making sure there are good working, housing and living conditions locally, access to sport and exercise opportunities for all, limiting the number of ‘junk food’ outlets near schools and discouraging smoking • Protection against infectious diseases, including outbreaks • Ensuring plans are in place to protect the health of the public • Providing advice to the NHS on identifying and prioritising health needs and purchasing health services The Public Health team also collects information and research about local health trends to plan services that best suit the needs of Knowsley communities. Why is this happening? The change to responsibility is part of Government reforms, outlined in the Health and Social Care Act. The aim is to make public health services more joined-up and local priorities will be set to meet local needs. Will the changes affect me? The changes should result in greater improvements in health and wellbeing for local residents. You will continue to access health services in the normal way. What are the benefits? Public Health will be a key council service and by managing it at a local level we can make sure we are tackling the issues which are most important to Knowsley communities. We will use our new responsibilities and resources to put health and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do, helping Knowsley residents to lead healthier lives. We will also use our influence to make improvements in other areas that affect people’s health, such as housing, education and employment. By sharing resources and information, we will understand our residents better so that we can make a real difference to what really matters to you and your families. Matthew Ashton, Acting Director of Public Health, said “The new role for Public Health and Knowsley Council means that we are joining up our public health services for our residents, enabling us to deliver these services more efficiently and effectively. We have been working with the council for a number of years, and I believe having public health as a core council service will improve the health and well being of the local population.”
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SHEILA OPENS NEW CHARITY SHOP A Melling pensioner was guest of honour at the official opening of Cancer Research UK’s first new shop in Merseyside in more than a decade. The new shop in Bold Street, Liverpool, will sell good quality clothes, accessories and household goods, with all profits going to Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work to help more men, women and children survive the disease. Sheila Murphy, from Melling, is keen to see more research into lung cancer. The 65-year-old lost both of her parents to lung cancer. She is one of 12 children and in the past decade, Sheila has also lost two of her younger sisters, Eleanor, and Mary, to lung cancer. She recently lost a close friend to cancer of the spine. Sheila, who is retired and used to work at Barclays Bank, takes part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life event at Aintree every summer. She said: “Sadly, my family has been dramatically hit by cancer. Losing my parents and two sisters to lung cancer has made me realise just how important research is. “While my family’s personal experience has been tragic, I am keen to make a difference for future generations affected by cancer. “Cancer Research UK’s work is at the heart of the progress in research and I would urge everyone to support the new Liverpool shop.” Shop Manager Claire Meaghan said: “We are very grateful to
AN EVENING OF SUMMER CLASSICS The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra comes to Knowsley in June with an evening of Summer Classics. They’ll perform a series of seasonal favourites, including Summer from Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, To a Wild Rose by Edward Macdowell and Bach’s Air on a G String. The world famous orchestra will perform at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park in Longview Drive, Huyton on Friday June 14, conducted by James Clark. The performance begins at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £12 and £10 concessions. You can get your tickets by calling into Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park or by ringing 0151 443 2200 or 0844 561 0622.
Sheila for her support. Her family’s experience of cancer shows clearly why it’s crucial to raise money to fund research. “There are lots of ways that local people can get involved and help us, from visiting as customers or stepping forward as volunteers.
“I am keen to make a difference for future generations affected by cancer” “We also need ongoing supplies of stock so we’d ask people to clear out their wardrobes and cupboards over the next few months and bring us their good quality clothes, shoes, bags, household items, books and CDs and DVDs.” Cancer Research UK receives no Government funding for its ground-breaking research. So money raised through its shops is crucial to the work of doctors, nurses and scientists who are fighting cancer on all fronts. The new Bold Street shop brings the total number of Cancer Research UK shops in the UK to 552. Cancer Research UK spends more than £2m on its pioneering work in Liverpool and Merseyside. The Liverpool Cancer Research UK Centre sets the pace for national and international progress in cancer of the pancreas, head, neck, skin and lung. Hundreds of people from all over the UK are patients at the Cancer Trials Unit which is part of the Centre.
PROGRAMME OPENS TO HELP CLOSE THE HEALTH GAP New Active Communities Funding Programme opens to help close the health gap between rich and poor neighbourhoods People’s Health Trust’s new Active Communities Funding Programme aims to support local people to use their skills and knowledge to make their communities better places in which to grow, live, work and age. Using money raised by HealthFit through The Health Lottery, the trust will work with people living in the poorest neighbourhoods of St Helens, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton and the Wirral. The new programme aims to close the gap between those communities which experience the worst health in England, Scotland and Wales and the majority of the population. The programme will focus on neighbourhoods where people living within them will, on average: • die seven years younger than people living in richer neighbourhoods; • spend 17 years more of their shortened lives with disability than people living in richer neighbourhoods;
• have higher rates of mental health problems; • have a lower quality of life. The Active Communities Funding Programme awards grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 to local community and voluntary organisations with an annual income of less than £200,000 a year, delivering small projects lasting up to 18 months, in the 25% most deprived neighbourhoods (based on the Indices of Multiple Deprivation) in Great Britain. To be eligible to apply for funding from this local society lottery your project should be delivered in St Helens, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton or the Wirral. Professor Jennie Popay, Chair – People’s Health Trust, said: “Through our new Active Communities Funding Programme, we’re looking to support projects in the most deprived neighbourhoods in Great Britain that encourage community activism. “We’re interested in projects that are designed by local people that address
issues relevant to them and benefit and improve their local community. “We want to support local people to use their skills and knowledge to make their communities better places in which to grow, to live, to work and to age.” Chris Lunn, Director – HealthFit, said: “We’re delighted to see the money raised by HealthFit being used to support local people to address health inequalities at a local level.” To find out more about the Active Communities Funding Programme, or to find out if your organisation and project is eligible for funding through this programme, please visit www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk. If you require further assistance or have any additional questions, please contact us by email to apply@peopleshealthtrust.org.uk or by telephone on 020 7697 4021. The closing date for applications is 9am on 11 April 2013.
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COMMUNITY GROUP CUT A DASH
The L14 Community Group have announced that they will support Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice this year with their Santa Dash. There was a huge turnout of Santa’s on the day and together they have managed to raise a fantastic total of £2,115 which will be used to provide essential care and support to our special babies. Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice is a very special charity. They focus upon providing specialist palliative and respite care for
babies and small children from birth through to five-years-old. Their bespoke one to one care is for babies who suffer with life limiting or life threatening conditions and this is provided by registered nurses, play leaders, physiotherapists and other care specialists 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can care for up to six babies at any one time and are currently supporting on average around 50 families per year. The care they provide however
comes at a cost which continues to steadily increase. Currently, it costs our charity in excess of £3,500 per day just to maintain their current level of care and they can only achieve this through the ongoing support they receive from members of the community such as the L14 Community Group. Without community support there would be no Zoë’s Place and so they would like to say a huge thank you from everyone here for your support.
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GAY COUPLES ARE ASKED TO CONSIDER ADOPTION Gay couples who are interested in becoming parents are being asked to consider adoption. With a shortage of adoptive parents in the region, the week is being supported by the Together for Adoption collaboration between Knowsley, Halton, Cheshire West and Chester councils. As part of the week Together for Adoption they appeared at the National Gay Wedding Show at the BT Convention Centre in Liverpool recently, to meet with Gay couples who might wanted to find out more about adoption. Each year around 50 children are in need of adoption in the West Cheshire, Halton and Knowsley areas and finding stable, loving homes for them is vital. Being gay or lesbian is not a barrier to adoption and same-sex couples in the region who are interested in becoming parents are being asked to get in touch to talk through the process and find out more. If you are interested in adoption call: • Knowsley Adoption Team on 0151 443 3958, or visit www.knowsley.gov.uk and search for ‘adoption’ • Cheshire West and Chester Adoption Team on 01244 972222, or visit www.adoptionwestcheshire.co.uk • Halton Adoption Team on 0800 195 3175 or visit www.halton.gov.uk and search for ‘adoption’ LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week was organised by New Family Social, the charity for LGBT adopters and foster carers. You can find out more at their website www.newfamilysocial.org.uk/
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Education News
‘MRS BANANA’ LEADS THE WAY FOR FAIRTRADE Pupils at a Kirkby primary school were leading the way in supporting Fairtrade – with a little help from Knowsley’s Fairtrade mascot ‘Mrs Banana’. Children at Millbrook Primary School held a special Fairtrade assembly followed by a Fairtrade ‘banana conga’ in the playground to mark their involvement in Fairtrade Fortnight – 25 February – 10 March. Fairtrade Fortnight is a national campaign aimed at raising awareness of Fairtrade products and promoting a fair deal for farmers in the developing world. Knowsley is a Fairtrade Borough and the council supports schools across the borough to achieve Fairtrade School status. To achieve this accolade schools must demonstrate that they use and promote Fairtrade products and pupils understand how Fairtrade can make a difference to those living in the developing world. Jane Maloney, Head teacher at Millbrook Primary School said: “‘Millbrook School loves to support Fairtrade. Children encourage parents to buy items with the Fairtrade sign on and we collect the wrappers to display on our Fairtrade tree. We loved doing the conga to show our support for Fairtrade.’ Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture Cllr Eddie Connor said: “We are keen to support schools to achieve Fairtrade School status so that the consumers of tomorrow know the importance of ensuring farmers in the developing world receive a fair price for the products they produce.” “Fairtrade Borough status confirms our commitment to creating a better understanding of what Fairtrade is, and increasing the sale of Fairtrade products in Knowsley.”
Knowsley mascot ‘Mrs Banana’ leads the banana conga at Millbrook Primary School, Kirkby.
BEAUTY STUDENTS SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL WEAR RED DAY Beauty Therapy students from Knowsley Community College pampered welldeserving staff at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital last week for International Wear Red Day (IWRD) which aims to raise awareness of heart disease in women. The students, along with tutor Markos Kokkinos, worked hard to provide complementary therapies to many staff at the hospital in return for donations to the IWRD fund. The day was extremely successful and thoroughly enjoyable for both the students and staff. Christine Bell, Head of Corporate Campaigns at the Hospital, commented: “It was a pleasure to work alongside Markos and his team of students. They were poised, extremely polite, friendly, efficient and skilled. The students are a great credit to Knowsley Community College and helped to raise awareness and funds for International Wear Red Day.”
The Challenge March 2013
PUPILS VISIT RELICS OF ST JOHN BOSCO Students and staff at St John Bosco Arts College, Croxteth welcomed the relics of their Patron saint to the city. 2015 will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of St John Bosco, as part of the celebration his relics have been on tour around the world. The UK part of the tour took place in January ending in St Georges Metropolitan Cathedral London. The Merseyside events began with an evening of activities at Thornleigh Salesian College where staff and students from five Salesian schools across the country welcomed the relics with an evening of celebration, followed by quiet reflection with a candlelit walk into the chapel for each school to lead prayers through the night. The following day the relics were moved to the Metropolitan Cathedral in Liverpool where more than 1000 people came to Mass to welcome the relics to Liverpool. St John Bosco Arts College took the opportunity to take all of their students to the Cathedral and experience the relics in their city. This was a fantastic opportunity for students to experience with the help of the volunteers, activities and quiet moments with the relics, another element to their Salesian Education. Samantha Jones from Year 12, said: “It was an inspirational visit, it felt like I was connected with our schools patron saint that spent his life working for young people like me. “This was a special visit for the city and the young people who were able to have a relics experience to help celebrate this special Saint”.
CAREERS ADVICE IS LETTING OUR YOUNG PEOPLE DOWN, SAYS NEW REPORT Schools must embed careers advice and employability into the curriculum to help combat youth unemployment, according to a new report. The report, by employment and skills experts Working Links, also calls for every school to have at least one employer on its board of governors to help move education and work closer together. As the UK celebrates National Apprenticeships Week (11-15 March), youth unemployment stands at 974,000 and is recognised as one of the most pressing economic challenges. In its new report, Working Links interviewed unemployed young people, their parents and UK employers to understand how reforming careers services could improve young people’s job prospects and tackle the UK’s youth unemployment crisis. It found that: • Four in five (85%) young unemployed people feel they left school ill-equipped to find a job. • Just 14% of young unemployed people say they were not told about vocational options, including Apprenticeships, at school. • Almost three quarters (72%) of
parents feel schools do not prepare their children for work with 63% feeling education is focused too much on academic pathways. • Over half the young unemployed people surveyed said they received careers advice less than once a year and only 9% received regular guidance. Working Links also spoke to employers who expressed frustration at being unable to form closer links to schools and indicated that their local schools are not committed to engaging in meaningful relationships with schools. The research also shows that employers are concerned that the focus on academic pathways discourages young people from exploring alternative options that might better enable them to secure employment in the future.
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Last year, the government launched the new National Careers Service and switched responsibility for providing independent and impartial careers advice away from local authorities to schools and colleges. Stephen Evans, Working Links’ Employment and Skills Director, said: “Young people have been let down by careers advice services for too long. We need this to change and place employability at the heart of our education system, preparing young people for working life. “The new obligation on schools to provide information, advice and guidance should act as a catalyst to recalibrate how schools and employers interact, with the support of local authorities, Local Enterprise Partnerships and specialist employment services. “There needs to be a commitment from both educators and policy makers to address the problems in careers services to young people. Up to date, local labour market intelligence should be fed into schools and the quality of careers advice must be measured to ensure we tackle this problem.”
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20 The Challenge March 2013
Housing News
WELFARE REFORM ADVICE HITS THE ROAD Hundreds of Knowsley residents accessed advice and support about welfare reform at special ‘roadshow’ events. The Benefits Roadshow, organised by Knowsley Housing Trust, hit the streets of Huyton and Kirkby where people could speak to specialist welfare advisors about the changes to benefits that are being introduced and how it will affect the support they receive. It is just one of the ways that KHT, part of the First Ark Group, is supporting tenants through the Government’s welfare reform programme. Executive Director of Customers and Communities Sheila Tolley said: “It was good to see so many people engaging with us about welfare reform. I spoke to many people at the roadshow who will be affected and were very worried and confused about what to do. “The first reform, the ‘bedroom tax’, will be introduced in a few weeks time so it is vital that people speak to us now and access all the help that we have available.” KHT has employed specialist advisors and also has a range of support services to help with debt and money management,
energy tariffs, bank accounts, getting online and training and employment opportunities such as apprenticeships and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. The ‘Bedroom Tax’ aims to address the government’s definition of underoccupancy by reducing the housing benefit to households which it considers to have one or more spare bedrooms. Damian Smith received advice at the roadshow. He has lived in his twobedroom home in Westvale, Kirkby, for around 30 years and has been the only occupant since his parents passed away 10 years ago. He stands to be affected by the bedroom tax, but hopes to gain employment and take himself out of benefits altogether. He said: “I am concerned about the bedroom tax. I knew it was happening but didn’t really know what it would mean so it has been really useful speaking to advisors.” Sheila added: “We are working to minimise the impact on our tenants as much as we possibly can and to help them manage their budgets to make sure they don’t run into financial trouble when the changes happen.”
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MAJOR KNOWSLEY DEVELOPMENT SHORTLISTED FOR REGENERATION AWARD A development of state-of-the-art eco homes that has revitalised an area of Knowsley has been shortlisted for a prestigious award by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Tiverton Close in Huyton, completed by Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT), part of the First Ark Group, has been shortlisted for the North West Regeneration prize in the RICS Awards 2013. The £6.3m project which was completed in 2012, demolished rundown flats to make way for the development of 49 new flats and houses. The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment, and KHT is one of a only a few public sector developers to make the list. KHT’s Executive Director of Asset Management Ian Thomson said: “This was an ambitious project and we are very pleased that it has been recognised by RICS, which sets such high standards for the industry. “It represents KHT’s approach to building new homes with excellent
Tiverton Close before and after.
design and construction and energy efficiency to bring transformative change to people and places.” The flats that had previously stood on the land were no longer suitable to meet the housing needs of the area. They had attracted anti-social behaviour, as well as affecting the look and feel of the local environment. Residents have recorded a 100 per cent satisfaction level with their new homes, and levels of anti-social behaviour and fly tipping have reduced. The properties have eco features including solar PV panels, thermal windows, thermostat boilers and Mechanical Heat Ventilation to improve their energy efficiency and help save residents hundreds of pounds on their bills. They also have enhanced security features such as improved lighting and window locks. The development is one of KHT’s biggest ever housing investments and has been supported by the Homes and Communities Agency and Knowsley Council. The RICS Awards 2013 North West final will be held in Manchester in May when the winners will be announced.
The Challenge March 2013
This Month orry for my absence last month! Ive been struck down by far too many bugs and illnesses as of late, meaning writing or even having something to write about can prove difficult. But during a fleeting germ free day in February half term I took a trip down to the new exhibition running at Tate Liverpool, and liked it so much, I thought I'd share it all with you. The exhibition was 'Glam! The performance of style' which was exploring the glam era from 1971 to 1975. I personally feel the price is a little on the steep side, but considering your gaining access to a large collection of multimedia that it both informing and thought provoking, it could be a lot more pricey then eight english pounds. Quite obviously, my knowledge of the 70's era is sufficiently lacking. I have a keen interest in the music and fashion of the 50's and 60's but the 1970s was a decade I had previously not delved into so I took this exhibition as my chance to uncover a little bit more. I had a hint of what to expect from the previous press coverage on it, and knew the aesthetics would feature David Bowie but apart from that I was admittedly pretty clueless. I have to say I'm definitely glad I
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with Jess Corcoran It's actually free to go, though they do ask for a £3 donation in order to keep it open and run an essentially free gallery for everyone. There are a few other exhibitions on at the moment, and I guarantee you won't leave without a question of your lips. Even if it is, "what even is modern art?" Art and traipsing around galleries may not be your thing, but you know what they say. You can't mock it till you've tried it. (Plus the views from the Albert dock are great) so if your free and you've got some pounds to spare, I'd recommend you go check out just how glam the seventies were. 'Glam! The performance of style' Tate Liverpool 8 February - 12 May £8
S
Mr and Mrs Clark and Percy 1970-1. Acrylic on canvas © David Hockney went along. The hot pink walls and booklet had me from the start as did the Nan Goldin quote I found further along the exhibition. Not only did it hugely expand my knowledge of the era but it also helped me to discover some new favourite artists, like Richard Hamilton and his collages. And it also helped me to clearly see the roots of glam and everything that expands from it into the modern day. If your not a fan of the
pretentiousness that inevitably is attached to a art gallery, it's handy to note this exhibition is more then just some paintings on the wall. It features clothing, photographs, magazines, videos and costume. So if "art" in its traditional form isn't your thing, it really doesn't matter. The disco room is also a highlight, and it really left me really gutted that I couldn't take any photographs. But even if I can't persuade you to check out the exhibition itself, why not just go to the Tate generally?
Where else you can find me this month: On Saturday 23rd March from 8PM, I'll be at elevator bar and food located at 27 parliament street, Liverpool. This is for a gig called open minds which is about raising money for the mental health charity 'mind'. There will be loads of up and coming bands playing and tickets are £5. I hope to see some of you there, but if not, find my review here next month!
Health & Fitness - With Emma Armstrong of Zest Wellness Reducing Coronary Heart Disease Risk Coronary heart disease (CHD) occurs when coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to a gradual build up of fatty plaques. These plaques are part of a condition called atherosclerosis. If these plaques break away from the artery they become blood clots which travel through the blood and usually dissolve, however, if a clot is big enough it may block an artery stopping oxygenated blood getting to the heart and a heart attack occurs. Unfortunately some CHD risk is due to nonmodifiable factors such as genetics and age. However, there are things we can do to help prevent CHD and other cardiovascular events such as a stroke. Diet - Current UK recommendations suggest no more than 35% of energy should come from fat, with no more than 11% of energy coming from saturated fats. Most people,are consuming more than this, and often much more than 11% of our energy is coming from saturated fats. These saturated fats are found in animal products such as red meat and cheese. There is no need to cut out these foods from your diet, but moderation is key to avoid excess saturated fat in the diet which is linked to CHD. Adequate intake of fruit and vegetables is also an extremely important part of CHD prevention. Fruit and vegetables include fibre, flavonoids, vitamin C and carotenoids which have all been found to help reduce CHD risk. Weight loss - If you are guilty of a poor you may be seeing it’s effects on your body mass index (BMI). A BMI of over 25kg/m² is classed as overweight with a BMI of over 30kg/m² considered obese. Overweight and obese people have an increased risk of CHD alongside diabetes, hypertension and a tendency to have a high amount of atherosclerotic fatty plaques. By reducing your weight to
within the healthy BMI range you could significantly reduce your CHD risk. Exercise - One way of reducing weight is to take up exercise. Try swapping an inactive lifestyle for some aerobic activity. Exercise improves a number of CHD risk factors in the body including body weight control, blood pressure and insulin resistance which all impact on CHD risk and see to a better you. Stress – Stress has been shown to have negative effects on our cardiovascular system, although exact mechanisms behind this are not yet known. Take time to relax, it’s good for your health! Alcohol – Consuming large amounts of alcohol is detrimental to our cardiovascular system. However, light drinkers have been found to have reduced risk of CHD than non-drinkers. By drinking in moderation (female’s 2-3 units per day, male’s 3-4 units per day) you can reap the health benefits without increasing CHD risk. Smoking – smoking lowers our levels of “good” cholesterol, whilst increasing the number of free radicals in our body, greatly increasing risk of CHD. Quit! The more risk factors you have the bigger the effect each one has. By removing as little as one risk factor you will make a big difference to your CHD risk as well as overall health. Good luck! Emma – emma@zestwellness.co.uk
22 The Challenge March 2013
Lifestyle
with Hannah Colmer
Bags of style Following the latest fashion trends is often hard to do, requires too much money and takes an awful lot of time and effort. But thanks to whoever started the latest fashion trend to hit the high street, that’s all about to change. Yes this season it’s all about rucksacks! Whether you’re male or female, young or old, everyone needs a bag at some point. So why not opt for one that’s bang on trend and practical at the same time? With the thousands of different designs, this accessory allows you to show off your individual style and personality, whilst providing a spacious, stylish storage for your belongings. The high street is currently awash with the latest trend so you’re sure to find something to suit. From studs to floral patterns, denim to waterproof materials, there’s something for everyone. They are an easy accessory that sits comfortably on your back, so there’s no effort required in wearing them and pretty much everyone can pull them off! This sought after, fashionable item goes with everything adding a casual look to your outfit and enhancing your style. And will be a great look to go with summer trends that await 2013. Comfort, style and something that your happy with wearing? What more could you want? If only all fashion trends could be this easy!
Health Tip! Don’t skip breakfast Some people skip breakfast because they think it will help them lose weight. In fact, research shows that eating breakfast can help people control their weight. A healthy breakfast is an important part of a balanced diet, and provides some of the vitamins and minerals we need for good health. Wholemeal cereal, with fruit sliced over the top is a tasty and nutritious breakfast.
Fish pie You can use any kind of white fish, such as cod or haddock, or even salmon to make this hot and filling fish pie. Salmon is a good source of vitamins A and D. Serves: 4 Time: 60 minutes Ingredients 700g potatoes, peeled and diced 4 fillets of haddock (or any kind of white fish or salmon) 425ml 1% fat milk 25g low-fat spread 25g flour 25g reduced-fat strong hard cheese 320g broccoli (to serve) Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC or gas mark 6. 2. Start by preparing the potatoes. Boil them for about 10 to 15 minutes until they're soft, then drain them and mash with a little milk. 3. To make the sauce, mix the milk, low-fat spread and flour in a small pan and warm over a medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce starts to bubble and thicken. 4. Pour the sauce over chunks of fish in an
ovenproof dish, then top with mashed potato and sprinkle the cheese over the top. 5. Bake in the centre of the oven for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Serve with broccoli. Other options Alternatively, use any kind of white fish or salmon. Try peas or green beans instead of broccoli.
The knit craze continues
When it comes to tops there is one trend that continues to dominate the high street – pretty knitwear. Knitwear is still going strong after taking over our wardrobes in Autumn 2012 and if fashion forecasts are anything to go by it’s here to stay.. Ranging from jumpers to long cardigans comfy knits can turn a simple outfit into a simply gorgeous one. The colours and styles are endless, as are the sizes and shapes that knitwear comes in, which is even better for us as it allows our wardrobes to be filled with variety whilst being filled with clothing that we love wearing! This fashion item is truly great as it goes with everything and anything, allowing it to be enjoyed with any outfit of ours. Not only being versatile, it provides warmth and comfort which is always a plus when it comes to clothes as you know what they say, ‘beauty’s pain’. And with spring on its way, bringing with it warmer temperatures (fingers crossed!) this gorgeous style can still be enjoyed as thinner knitwear is being produced enabling us to still enjoy our favourite looks, regardless of what’s happening outside.
The Challenge March 2013 23
Monday Huyton The Old School House, St John’s Road 6.30pm Kathryn 07865 014437
Huyton St Aidan’s Club, Longview Lane/Adswood Road 9.30am & 11.30am Michelle 07940 181515
Huyton St Aidans Club Longveiw Lane/Adswood Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Michelle 07940 181515
Wednesday Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church) Pilch Lane 4.00pm & 6.00pm Julie 449 1074
Tuesday West Derby The Crown Inn, Leyfield Road 9.00am, 11.00am, 5.00pm & 7.00pm Marji 548 0018 Kirkby Centre 63 Old Hall Lane, Next To St Chads 9.30am & 11.00am Eileen 548 0658 Speke The Metal Boxonions Sports And Social Club, Speke Boulevard 5.00pm & 6.30pm Clare 07950 631858 Prescot St James Church Hall St Helens Road (Near The Wellington Pub) 9.30am, 11.30am 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lynn 480 1665
Speke Speke Health Centre North Parade 4.30pm & 6.30pm Sandra 07979 416363
Dovecot Dovecot Labour Club Finch Lane Entrance 6.00pm Jean 290 0034 Westvale Kirkby Holy Angels Sidney Powell Ave 4pm & 6pm Vicky 07514 460430 Friday Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church), Pilch Lane 9.30am Julie 449 1074
Huyton The Royal British Legion Archway Road 5.30pm Sheila 07850 986397
Saturday Huyton The Huycap Centre, Rupert Road 8.00am & 10.00am Joanne 254 1298
Thursday Whiston George Howard Centre, Lickers Lane, 5.00pm & 6.30pm Kathryn 07865 014437
West Derby The Crown Inn Leyfield Road, West Derby 8.30am & 10.30am Marji 548 0018
Stockbridge Village Craigs Community Centre, Little Moss Hey 6.00pm Ro 07709 956191
Prescot Parish Church Meeting Rooms (next to Deans House), Vicarage Place 9.00am Lynn 480 1665
24 The Challenge March 2013
TRUST CHOSEN TO PILOT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH INITIATIVE St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has been chosen as one of only 20 Trusts across the country to pilot a new Department of Health initiative for patients with reduced mobility. The initiative aims to promote patients’ dignity and increase independence with the introduction of a new drinking system that can be attached to wheelchairs, beds, chairs or the patient’s clothing to allow easy access, hands-free hydration. The National Hydration Programme won the Nursing Times award for Dignity and Living and is being piloted across five wards at Whiston Hospital. The system is ideal for patients with reduced movement whilst they are receiving treatment or for those with more long-term mobility problems. The system has also been used very successfully by the Armed Forces at The Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, for Military personnel recovering from injury. One patient benefitting from the new system is 90 year old Thomas Waterworth. Mr Waterworth is registered blind and was admitted to Whiston Hospital with poor kidney function. Due to his condition, Mr Waterworth finds it difficult to make his own drinks at home and using utensils such as cups and jugs is hard with his sight. Mr Waterworth was provided with the hydrant system whilst he was in hospital and has taken it home to help him longer-term. Mr Waterworth’s daughter, Diane Russell, said: “My dad is quite independent and has looked after himself for a long time. He is 90 years old now and needs a little more assistance to help keep well. Suffering from poor kidney function, the hydration system is perfect to help him maintain his independence and have fluids on hand throughout the day. I’m so pleased that the hospital gave him this system and has allowed him to take it home, it really is making a difference to his quality of life.” The pilot has had such positive feedback from patients, relatives and staff that it is hoped that once the national pilot is complete at the end of March 2013, that the scheme will be rolled-out across the Trust.
Patient Thomas Waterworth, Sister Caroline Ingham, Hydrant Programme Manager and Lorraine Lowton, HCA, Ward 5A Whiston Hospital.
SCHOOL CELEBRATES 50TH BIRTHDAY
Pupils, staff and the local community came together to celebrate the 50th birthday of a local primary school. Holy Family Catholic Primary School in Halewood opened its doors in 1962, and a week-long activity of celebrations were held to mark the milestone birthday. In the run-up to the celebrations, pupils studied what life was like in the 1960s when the school opened, and each year group then learned about a particular decade from the 1960s through to modern day. They produced both written work and artbased work based on events and famous people from the
decade they studied. Parents and members of the local community were invited to attend open mornings to see the children’s work, which was showcased in the school’s new library. Pupils also dressed up in the style of the era and performed some of the iconic songs and dances of the different decades. “We wanted to make sure the whole school and local community were involved in celebrating this momentous occasion,” explains Carroll Hamilton, head teacher at Holy Family Catholic Primary School. “The open mornings were a
Keira Luckock, 7, and Melissa Noble, 8, with 70s and 80s items
huge success, with past pupils, parents and other local people coming along to see the children’s work showcased. “Everyone got into the spirit of the celebrations and we look forward to another 50 years!” Cllr Graham Wright, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Family Services, commented, “It’s great to see the whole community getting involved in celebrating Holy Family’s 50th birthday. The school is a special place for many local people, with generations of the same family attending the school over the years.”
The Challenge March 2013 25
HAUNTED MERSEYSIDE WITH TOM SLEMEN The Little Folk of Knowsley For centuries, the Little People have been seen across Knowsley and parts of Liverpool. In the summer of 1964, there was what the media of the time called “an outbreak of Leprechaun mania” and this alleged epidemic of hysteria was once thought to have started with the reported sightings of little men on the bowling greens of Kensington at the beginning of July 1964. That many people turned up in Kensington Fields, Jubilee Drive, close to the site of the purported “Leprechaun” activity, the police had to cordon off the area to keep the curious sightseers away. The newspapers were full of the sightings of the ‘little folk’, and of course, the psychologists and sociologists were quick to try and explain away the reports as straightforward examples of mass hysteria, but the sightings of the ‘fairies’ and ‘elves’ took a while to calm down. Children in Kirkby ran home to parents to tell them how they’d chased little men in green and white outfits across the graveyard of St Chads, and over in Huyton, boys and girls were out in force – and some carried fishing nets and jam jars – to catch the little men – some of them only a few inches tall – that they had seen in Jubilee Park, Dinas Lane. It was the same scene in all of the major parks of this region: Sefton Park, Calderstones Park, Stanley Park, and then the little people invaded Melling. A woman who is now in her sixties named Tina told me how she was cycling down Rock Lane on a bright August afternoon around 2pm, when she saw about “a dozen little men in green, white and blue suits” which ran across the road and into a field. Tina recalls that it was the day of her 16th birthday and she was riding the bike she had received as a gift from her dad. She watched the little troop of figures, all less than the size of an Action Man doll, run off through the long grass towards the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. She lost sight of the eerie entities, turned around and rode her bike back homewards as fast as she could. Tina told her parents and brothers what she had seen and they naturally thought she was joking, but then some of the kids of the neighbours also mentioned seeing the diminutive strangers. About a week after this, a 9-year-old girl named Julie saw a disc-shaped craft, about the size of her father’s car, she estimated, land in a field about twenty yards north of Wood Hall Farm, where the M58 now scythes its way from Dunnings Bridge Road to Maghull Lane. This possible UFO landing took place in broad daylight around 3pm on an infernally hot August afternoon, and was reported by several people. When some of the locals went to find the “flying saucer” there was no trace of it. However, strange green and blue lights were later seen whizzing about over the fields where the mysterious object seemed to come to earth, and 9-year-old Julie saw one of these lights hover over the hedge of her front garden one evening. She told her mother some time after this that three “little men” a bit bigger than her hand had floated through the open kitchen window and flown around the house. Julie’s mother smiled and stroked her child’s head, thinking Julie just had a vivid imagination, but the family Corgi, Teddy, began to act strange around this time. Teddy would bark at the ceiling and run out into the hallway and hide under the stairs, where he would whine for hours, as if something had upset
him. Julie said her mother was giving her a glass of milk in the kitchen a few days after the arrival of the three little men, when they returned. The time was about 9.30 pm, and because her father was on a night shift, Julie was allowed to stay up because her mum got lonely on such nights. Julie wanted to tell her mum the tiny figures were floating over her head, but in her mind she heard strange voices that said: “Don’t tell on us!” Teddy began to growl at the figures, and one of them landed on the table, where he stumbled and fell face-down. Julie saw that the little man had a type of glass “goldfish bowl” helmet on his head, and a white shiny suit with a thick red stripe running down the meridian of his body from the neck to the groin area. The other two tiny men had a similar stripe on their suits, coloured green and blue, respectively. Julie’s mother picked up the little figure – thinking it was a doll - and threw it through the kitchen doorway towards the sofa as she cleared the table to make some sandwiches for her husband’s ‘carrying out’. Julie saw the thrown figure take off from the sofa and fly out the open door into the garden, and the other two little men floated like soap bubbles out of the kitchen and went after their comrade. Julie then told her mother what had happened and once again she was not believed. Teddy ran out the kitchen and into the garden, barking furiously. Julie’s dad then came downstairs and he kissed her and her mother, and then left for work at a local factory. When he came home the next morning at seven, he found his wife and daughter still awake. They hadn’t slept a wink all night after hearing strange faint voices – speaking a language they couldn’t understand – out in the back garden. Coloured lights had also been seen at the windows of Julie’s bedroom, and Teddy the corgi had barked so much at the strange activity he had developed a cough. About a week after this the same circular unidentified craft that had been seen landing north of Wood Hall Farm was seen climbing high into the afternoon sky over the Hermitage on Rock Lane. Five years after this, three men from this Earth landed on the Moon, but did some three astronauts from another space-faring race, perhaps much smaller in stature than us, visit this world on a reconnaissance mission? And if so, will they return. Curiously enough, in May 2009, there were several sightings of little people seen on Rock Lane, close to the Bootle Arms pub in the heart of leafy Melling. • Tom Slemen's Haunted Liverpool 22 is out now for the Kindle, and the paperback of Haunted Liverpool 20 is out soon.
KNOWSLEY COUNCILLOR DIES Knowsley Councillor Bob Whiley has sadly died at the age of 66. Councillor Whiley was elected as a Ward Member for Prescot West in the May 2011 elections. He also served for a number of years on Knowsley Town Council. Councillor Whiley sat on a variety of council committees, including Licensing and Human Resources Appeals. He was also a member of working groups looking at key issues affecting the borough, including volunteering and a review of secondary education and the transition of young people into employment.
GOLD AWARD FOR COLLEGE COMMITTED TO LIFE-SAVING TRAINING Knowsley Community College has been awarded a Gold Award for being CardiacSmart. The College is one of the few organisations in the Merseyside area to receive the award which recognises organisations for their dedication to raising awareness of heart health, basic life support and defibrillators in their local communities. The initiative has been created by the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) and The British Heart Foundation. It follows the same principles of the Chain of Survival Partnership which works to extend the network of available Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to improve access to them for people who suffer cardiac arrest outside hospital in the North West. It also aims to boost the amount of people trained in basic life support so that they have the potential to save a life! Mobile defibrillator kits have been installed in the College since 2010 and since then over 300 learners and staff have been trained on how to use the life-saving cardiac equipment. The awards ceremony took place at the Barton Grange Hotel in Preston and was arranged by the North West Ambulance Service. Tutor Paul Turton attended the awards along with Health and Safety manager, Pam Griffiths. Pam said ‘We are extremely proud to receive this award as recognition of our commitment to the Heart Start programme. We aim to continue training learners and staff on how to use the cardiac equipment which could help to save somebody’s life in the future.” If you would like more information on being CardiacSmart, or first aid training in general ,please contact Pam Griffiths on 0151 477 5888. For more information on the CardiacSmart initiative, defibrillators, educational resources and news/events please visit www.cardiacsmart.nwas.nhs.uk.
26 The Challenge March 2013
WHAT’S YOUR STORY? The Youth Life Project wants you to share your childhood experiences for ‘Our Story’ theyouthlifeproject.org The Youth Life Project, a youth charity needs your help constructing a book titled ‘Our Story’. The book ‘Our Story’ is part of the YouthStories campaign and requires the public to submit real life short stories, poetry and artwork that tell stories about their youth in order to be a success. YouthStories is a campaign set up by The Youth Life Project to provide a channel through which people can communicate their thoughts, feelings and experiences. The aim of ‘Our Story’ is to bring together real life stories and experiences of people from all age groups through a range of mediums and help the public express experiences of their youth. Once the book is published profits will be used to support The Youth Life Project. ‘Our Story’ is open to entries from people of all ages from across the country. Some examples of stories received so far relate to incidents of abuse,
domestic violence, poverty, health issues, bullying, peer pressure and sexual abuse. “We understand the power of storytelling and the burden it can lift for those who have something to get off their chest,” said The Youth Life Project founder Danielle Brown. “Storytelling has taken many forms throughout the ages and we want to embrace as many of these as possible and evoke a range of emotions in the reader”. The Youth Life Project aims to restore the faith lost in young people and equip them with the skills required to make positive life choices. Providing a service for young people to utilise, The Youth Life Project is born from the passion of its founder Danielle Brown for the care and well-being of young people. “It seems as though there is a disconnection between young people and adults, ‘Our Story’ will help bridge that gap and show we all experience problems and that someone out there has
been through similar situations. The stories from older people will show the youth how they have dealt with things and provide young people with a platform to have their voice. The book is all about having the freedom to express yourself.” Danielle concluded “We hope this book makes a difference in at least one person’s life. Ideally the book will encourage others to speak out and tell their story, we hope the book will have a positive effect in many ways and on many lives and you have the chance to be part of that”. To be considered for inclusion in ‘Our Story’ please email entries to youthlifeproject@gmail.com. Your entry can take the form of a letter, a short story, artist impression, case study, newspaper article, comic strip, a poem or however you best express your feelings. Your entry must include a title for your entry, your age and must be real. For further information about The Youth Life Project, or information on how you can be involved in ‘Our Story’, please contact Danielle Brown via danielletylp@gmail.com
PRESCOT ELIZABETHAN FAYRE AND PRODUCERS MARKET
The popular Prescot Elizabethan Fayre returns to the town centre on Saturday May 4. It will coincide with the Prescot producers market that is held on the first Saturday of every month. The Fayre will transport visitors back to the 14th century where they can enjoy traditional crafts such as candle and basket making, bell tower tours at Prescot Parish Church and donkey rides Children can get their faces painted, there will be birds of prey and circus skills demonstrations and workshops The festival recreates the old May Fayres that were held in Prescot, during the era of the first Queen Elizabeth. The event will take place in and around Prescot Parish Church in Church Street. The producers market is held in nearby Eccleston Street and showcases the best produce from local farmers, bakeries and businesses for people to buy. If you’d like to get involved in the Elizabethan Fayre or if you’d like to have a stall at the producers market, call Knowsley Leisure and Culture Service on 0151 443 5353
Outdoors with The HairyGardener Hi, my name is Peter Frances a.k.a. the Hairygardener After all the planning and looking through seed catalogues in the dark days of winter, the time has arrived to start sowing your seeds. Over the last two weeks or so we’ve a dry spell so we will have been out in our gardens, allotments and window boxes, working the soil, replenishing boxes and tubs with fresh home made compost if possible, warming the soil with cloches and fleeces, these jobs need to be done now and completed by the end of March. Remember the more you work you put into your garden/plot and even the humble window boxes and baskets the better the veg, fruit, flowers and herbs will be. So what can be started now, well I start off with what I call the hardy plants by this I mean in the case of vegetables, onions and potatoes. With onions these are planted mainly by using onion sets which basically miniature onions. The area in which you are going to grow your onions the soil should be open and free draining and not freshly manured but you can add fresh compost. Plant your onion sets 10cm apart and space the rows 20-25 cms apart. The onion sets must be planted with point upwards don’t laugh I’ve seen experienced gardeners get this wrong with the set just under the surface and water well in dry spells, these will be ready in July-October. Potatoes should be in the chitting process by now this means allowing shoots to grow from the potatoes, this gives them a start when they are placed in the ground. By the way I grow mine in potato bags available from shops, garden centres. There is a rule of thumb for planting new potatoes which gardeners will be aware of. It is in on Paddy’s day out on Billy’s day. Good Gardening
DOG OF THE MONTH – ANDY- A 6 YEAR OLD MALE CROSSBREED Aimee Best, Dogs Trust Merseyside Rehoming Centre SRO, says: “Andy is a handsome boy who can be a little wary of new people. He loves hot dog sausages so will soon be your friend if you tempt him with one! Andy also loves his comfy duvet and spends most of his day snoozing on it. Andy can be anxious when meeting new people so we think he needs to be in a home with experienced adults only. He does enjoy walking with other dogs but would be better as the only pet in the home. Andy can be left for a few hours and is house trained.” If you think Andy could be the perfect pooch for you, please contact Dogs Trust Merseyside on 0151 480 0660 or drop into the centre: Whiston Lane Liverpool L36 6HP, United Kingdom Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for over 16,000 stray and abandoned dogs each year through its network of 17 Rehoming Centres nationwide. For more information about the charity’s work please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk
The Challenge March 2013 27
PROGRAMME HELPS TO BENEFIT THOUSANDS AFFECTED BY DEMENTIA Alzheimer’s Society is providing more services than ever before across Merseyside after gaining funding for cutting edge research that could help improve the lives of thousands of people with dementia across Liverpool, Knowsley and Sefton. A number of new services have been running across Merseyside for the past six months. These services, which will run for a further twelve months, include Maintaining Skills, Music and Wellbeing Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, Singing for the Brain, Visual Art Therapy, Reading Together and a Carers Educational Course. Alzheimer’s Society’s traditional services such as Dementia Cafes, Carer Support Groups and Dementia Support Workers continue to run alongside this new offering. This innovation and research programme funded by Merseyside NHS, Liverpool City Council, Knowsley and Sefton Borough Council, sees Alzheimer’s Society working with John Moores University to evaluate the difference that these services make to people in the community. Anne-Marie Cagliarini, Merseyside Locality Manager for Alzheimer's Society, said: ‘We are really excited to be leading this new project, which will help us reach thousands more people
affected by dementia. ‘Supporting people to live well in their communities for as long as possible has many benefits, both to the people affected – and on services. It can reduce pressure on the hospital and care system, encourage early diagnosis and help people form informal support networks that help them plan for the future. It can also improve the health and wellbeing of carers and help them to support people to live at home longer. ‘There is limited research into the impact and effectiveness of this model of care, therefore a scientific report will be produced at the end of the project to measure outcomes and benefits of the groups and therapies.’ Alzheimer’s Society and John Moore’s University will publish its findings as early as Summer 2014. Researchers will measure the benefits to people with dementia and carers through evaluation techniques including questionnaires, oneto-one interviews and group evaluation. The project will conclude with a two day ‘Celebration of Dementia’ event in May 2014 at the Bluecoat Art Gallery Liverpool, and will showcase the various therapies undertaken. For more information or to attend one of the groups, please call the Knowsley Office: 0151 426 4433
FORESTRY COMMISSION APPEALS FOR WOODLAND VOLUNTEERS The Forestry Commission is giving people in Merseyside the chance to improve their skills and protect the future of their woodlands by becoming a volunteer. The Commission has spaces available for people to get involved with the preservation of its woodlands through a number of activities including planting trees, cutting back vegetation, reporting incidents, clearing paths as well as project work such as helping out with events, wildlife surveys and conservation. Richard Topley, Beat Manager for the Forestry Commission, said: “Becoming a volunteer is an inexpensive way to be in beautiful surroundings, get some exercise or take up a new hobby. “There is something for all ages and abilities to get involved with that will help sustain and improve the woodlands and wildlife for future generations.” The Forestry Commission already has a growing team of volunteers across England who benefit from working in a natural environment while gaining valuable work experience. “Meeting new people and learning new skills is just part of what it means to be a Forestry Commission volunteer,” added Richard “However, we are also really keen for volunteers to take ownership of their woodlands and share their own ideas on how they can be best protected and maintained for communities to enjoy now and in years to come.” To become a woodland volunteer in your area or you have an idea for a project or species survey then please contact the Forestry Commission on 01606 882167.
Letter to the editor, From 1 April, the bedroom tax – a cut to the financial support people on low incomes get towards their rent – comes into effect. About 110,000 across the North West will be told to move into a smaller property or lose an average of £547 a year because they have a ‘spare’ room. Shockingly, about 69,300 of those affected are people with disabilities. The impact will be particularly harsh in places like Knowsley that are among the most economically challenged in the country. For these working-age families, finding another £46 a month will be incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Many will have to choose between heating and eating. Even those who want to downsize, can’t. There just simply aren’t enough smaller properties. These aren’t families living a life of luxury. They are normal households with children who have their own rooms, separated parents who need a bedroom for their child to visit at weekends, or foster parents who need another room to care for vulnerable children. Disabled people will have spent years adapting another room to make it easier for them to get around and to look after their health. We know that in Knowsley almost 4,000 people will be affected by the bedroom tax and many of these will be disabled people. There are 16,330 people receiving Disability Living Allowance in Knowsley and 11,910 people are
on incapacity benefits and employment support allowance. Over the past year, we have been working hard to prepare our residents who will be hit by the tax. We’re going door-to-door, taking our benefits officers out to the streets to give advice and support and - where we can - helping people move through mutual home exchanges. We have put more effort, time and money than ever before into providing extra welfare, financial and energy advice, generating job and training opportunities and facilitating digital access and IT training so people can make their money go further and improve their skills and employment prospects. But for some, this won’t be enough or a move will be impossible. We have produced a video that explains who will be affected in Knowsley and how, what they need to do to prepare for this and how we can help. This can be viewed on our website for anyone concerned and via YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-JKb0-7yiM. We believe the opportunity to thrive rather than struggle to survive should be the right of every citizen in the UK today. The Government must look again at the impact on children and parents and protect anyone receiving disability living allowance from this tax. Otherwise it will hit our communities hard – and we’ll all have to pick up the pieces. Signed, Bob Taylor, Chief Executive
KHT SUPPORTS NHF BEDROOM TAX CAMPAIGN Knowsley Housing Trust is in full support of the National Housing Federation’s bedroom tax campaign and, in particular, the call to exempt disabled and other vulnerable people from the bedroom tax cuts before they come into effect on 1st April. We believe the Government’s bedroom tax is flawed and unworkable and ultimately will lead to greater hardship for those who need the most support in society, increased homelessness and in practice increase the costs involved in collecting rents and maintaining homes – money that could be used to improve services and/or reduce rents. The ‘bedroom tax’ policy runs a very real risk of creating even more disadvantaged communities and giving people very little hope to achieve thriving and sustainable futures – the opportunity to thrive rather than struggle to survive should be the right of every citizen in the UK today. Knowsley Housing Trust has been working for the past two years to champion the rights of tenants and keep them fully informed of the development of the Government’s welfare reform and how it will affect them. We have actively lobbied and joined forces with others to lobby against the bedroom tax and sought to influence the government to make changes that will protect those most vulnerable in society. To help in ensuring our voice is heard, we have engaged and joined forces with the local council in Knowsley, the National Housing Federation, the Northern Housing Consortium and Placeshapers Group, as well as direct meetings with the Government, to lobby against the changes. Working together and collaboratively in this way we aimed to ensure the Government can see the sheer scale of opposition to its proposals across the whole country. Once the Welfare Reform Act became law however, we have had to ensure that in addition to still looking to influence the Government to back track, our energies would also be best used in trying to minimise the impact on our tenants and we have been working hard to do this for the past year. We have now put more effort, time and money than ever before into providing extra welfare,
financial and energy advice, generating job and training opportunities and facilitating digital access and IT training so people can make their money go further and improve their skills and employment prospects. This is because although we disagree with the changes being imposed we also believe strongly in our role to help and advise people where we can on their options. To help ensure we maximise peoples options, we have also been working with other housing associations across Merseyside through the Property Pool Plus lettings system, to help identify properties that may be suitable for those affected by the bedroom tax. We all recognise that one of the key difficulties is that there just aren’t enough properties with the right number of bedrooms to match the requirements of all our customers and even if there were, many tenants simply do not want to move out of their homes and would prefer to find a way of meeting the additional cost they will have to bear through the bedroom tax. Unlike most other housing associations, we have also limited our rent increases over the last two years below the maximum that we could have charged in anticipation of welfare reform, recognising the difficult position thousands will find themselves in and aiming to keep as much money as we can in our tenants’ pockets. The Government’s bedroom tax is bad news for everyone. It is not in anyone’s interests for our tenants to struggle to pay their rent because without rental income we would not be able to continue providing the vital homes and the services, that so many people rely on and of course to build the new homes the Government wants to meet demand and to help kick start the economy. We have a duty to all of our tenants to ensure we can deliver the services people expect from the rents paid for their homes. There are challenging times ahead for many and it would be wrong to underestimate that but KHT is committed to supporting people to cope as much as we can with the changes and to have options where possible to remain in their homes, and be able to build the healthy, happy and sustainable lives that all have a right to deserve.
28 The Challenge February 2013
Challenge Classified PUBLIC NOTICE
CHARITY
PUBLIC NOTICE KNOWSLEY TOWN COUNCIL
British Heart Foundation
Report of the Independent Remuneration Panel (2012) Knowsley Town Council has received a copy of the report of the Independent Remuneration Panel in respect of the payment of Parish Basic Allowance and Chairmanʼs Allowance. The Panel noted that Town Councils may resolve to pay their members an allowance known as Parish Basic Allowance. The Panel acknowledged that Town Councils may also pay a Chairmanʼs Allowance under existing Regulations. Conclusion of the Panel No Parish Basic Allowance be payable during the financial year 2012/13. Reasonable out of pocket expenses for travel and subsistence be reimbursed in respect of duties and meetings covered by the relevant regulations. Knowsley Town Council having regard to the Panelʼs report on allowances, noted the conclusions of the Panel and RESOLVED to pay members a Basic Membersʼ Allowance of £830 per year and a Chairmanʼs Allowance of £1,000 per year. Copies of the Panelʼs report are available for inspection by arrangement at: Knowsley Town Council Office, Knowsley Village Hall, School Lane, Knowsley Village, Merseyside, L34 9EN. Contact: Paul Lawday – Clerk of the Council on 0151 548 4545
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The Challenge February 2013 29
HALEWOOD CONTINUE THEIR SUCCESS Halewood Tae Kwon-Do Club’s have continued with their recent success whilst competing at the 2013 GTI English Championships, held in Cheltenham on 17th February. Club member, Stef Davies, said: “We had 14 team members taking part in the tournament, and they came back with 16 trophies and medals - four gold, seven silver and five bronze. “Competitors were able to enter several events, including patterns (to assess technical ability); point-stop sparring, a bout favouring the fighter who scores first; and continuous sparring, favouring the fighter scoring the most points in a non-stop bout. “8-year-old Olivia Connolly-Dixon was competing for the first time, but managed to overcome her nerves to achieve a fantastic result - two silver
medals in patterns and point-stop sparring. “Little Harvey Banks, who was celebrating his 7th birthday, made his mark in the boys’ peewee point-stop sparring division, winning a silver medal. Big sister Jessica Banks (13) and team mate Lauren Butler (10) fought hard in the red belt girls continuous sparring event, each battling against older and stronger opponents to achieve bronze medals. “8-year-old Callum Edwards had moved up to the boys’ blue belt division for the first time. However, he was unfazed; and took a silver medal in continuous sparring. “Halewood’s ladies did particularly well, with four becoming English Champions. Nicole Murphy (18) won gold in green belt point-stop sparring
Halewood victorious junior team show off their medals
CYCLING EVENTS AT CROXTETH HALL Croxteth Park and Liverpool Active City are holding Cycle for Health events every Tuesday throughout the year. Take a cycle ride around the scenic country park and improve your health and fitness at the same time! All cycle rides are led at a leisurely pace and are best suited for beginners. The events start at 10.00am (sessions last about 1 1/2 hours, limited places), meet at the green ‘bike pod’ at the rear of Croxteth Hall, just past the Estate Office. If you arrive by car, please use the public car park off Muirhead Avenue. Working in partnership with the Liverpool Primary Care Trust, this is a new venture offering guided cycle rides with fully trained leaders. All bikes and safety equipment are provided free of charge, but places are limited. Contact Jeanette Smith (Walk/Cycle for Health administrator) on 0151 285 4975 or alternatively Gavin McLaughlin to reserve a place.
The gold winning ladies team as well as a bronze in patterns. Sian Tunstall (27) took the top spot in the red belt patterns event, plus a bronze in point-stop sparring. “Team mates Lucy Sanders (30) and Stef Davies (30) dominated the ladies’ black belt sparring divisions, facing each other in the finals of both pointstop and continuous sparring events. “Both fights were close, and ended with one win each – Lucy taking the continuous sparring and Stef taking the point-stop sparring crown. Both ladies also took medals in the patterns event, with Stef achieving silver and Lucy taking bronze”.
Instructor Chris Davies (28) was extremely proud of his team, and praised their “fighting spirit,” as well as the outstanding level of support they received on the day from friends and family. This tournament was a great start to the year for the club, which will be looking to achieve more competition victories throughout the year. Halewood Tae Kwon-Do classes are held four times per week at Halewood Centre for Learning. Further details can be found on their website: www.halewoodtaekwondo.com
30 The Challenge March 2013
Challenge SPORT If you have got any sports news contact us on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com
289 9999
BASKETBALL STAR SAYS COMPETITION IS GOOD
LADY GOLFERS LOOK FOR NEW MEMBERS Bowring Ladies Golf are on the lookout for new members to join them for a round of golf each week. Judith Horner, Lady Captain, said: “We are a friendly group of ladies who play at Bowring Park in Knowsley. The course is just by Junction 5 of the M62. “We welcome all lady golfers to come and join us. We play on Saturday mornings, and on Wednesdays in the season. We also play through the winter when conditions allow. “We welcome all comers, from experienced golfers who want to play with other ladies on a Saturday, right down to ladies who have only recently taken up the sport.
“We expect new starters to have had some lessons and been to the driving range. The next big step is actually getting onto a course and getting a handicap. “We have all been there and understand your fears! Don’t worry, we are there to help you! “Every year we raise funds for Charity. This year we are raising money for Parkinsons UK. We also organise away days and golf weekends away and enjoy each other’s company every Saturday. “Why not come and join us?” For more details and an application form visit www.bowringladiesgolf.co.uk
CYCLE RIDE LEADER TRAINING AVAILABLE Mersey Tigers basketball star Martin Calvos congratulates Tayla Shelley, 11, from St Laurence’s on her school’s sports success. Mersey Tigers basketball star Martin Calvos has backed a campaign to get more Knowsley children involved in competitive sport. Two local primary schools, St Laurence’s and Eastcroft Park, have been praised for their work in the project to develop team sports. In recognition, they played an exhibition match of basketball at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park before the Mersey Tigers played the Glasgow Rocks. Mersey Tigers train and play at the centre in Longview Drive in Huyton and their leading scorer Martin Calvos was impressed by the youngsters. He said: “I believe that to achieve their full potential in life young people need to experience competition. “Sport is a great way of enhancing
qualities such as teamwork, discipline, determination and fair play. “Those qualities will help build their confidence and stand them in great stead throughout their lives.” St Laurence’s primary has been given a Gold Kitemark award for their work to develop competitive sport in the school. Eastcroft Park received a Silver award for their work on the campaign and came away with a 2 point win in the match against St Laurence’s. St Laurence’s head teacher, Paul Cronin said: “We’re developing a variety of ways to provide a lot more school sports for our pupils. “Both St Laurence’s and Eastcroft Park have had four weeks of basketball in the sports curriculum to give them a taste of something they might not otherwise try.”
Do you love cycling for fun? Are you passionate about getting your local community on a bike? Sky Ride Local is back for 2013 and we’re looking for confident recreational cyclists to train as Ride Leaders and Route Planners. You don’t need to be a cycling expert, just be confident riding in groups and have heaps of enthusiasm. Our Ride leaders are friendly, confident, chatty individuals who love encouraging others and are happy to operate as one member of a team. If this sounds like you then keep reading. The British Cycling assessed oneday course qualifies you to deliver led rides for groups of beginner and intermediate level adults and accompanied children. The Ride Leader course for the Knowsley area is on the 30th March
at a venue to be confirmed and will be a full day (8.30am-5pm). Upon completion of the course you will be required to take part in a minimum of four led rides in the Knowsley area. These rides will be planned and scheduled by British Cycling and you will ‘request’ to lead or assist on rides through the dedicated ride leader website. Leaders are given free British Cycling ‘Ride’ Membership, free branded kit (cycling jacket and jersey) and paid £45 (main leader, one per ride, must have a valid first aid certificate) and £30 (assistant leaders, maximum of four per ride) and this payment is taxed at source here at British Cycling. To find out more and book your place, e-mail skyride@britishcycling.org.uk or call 0161 274 2000 .
Knowsley Challenge is a free community newspaper to serve the Borough of Knowsley. Circulation 30,000. Editorial Office: 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 706 7411. Advertising, Graphic Design and Typesetting by Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678 Printed by News International Newspapers Limited at Kitling Road, Prescot, Merseyside L34 9HN.