The challenge march 2014

4 - 6 and wheelchair vehicle’s

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YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Issue 322 March 2014

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NEWS

Knowsley Council agree budget for 2014/15 but issue a warning

NEW PRESCOT BUSINESS WINS A SHOP THANKS TO ONE ARK Page 2

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY IN KNOWSLEY Page 4

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD …ON A BUDGET

Page 11

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE THE WIZARD OF OZ Page 15 Keep up to date with THE CHALLENGE on our new website

INFORMATION News: 0151 706 7411 Advertising: 0151 709 7567 Email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Facebook: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Twitter: thechallenge6 Copy deadline: Friday 1 November 2013

“WORSE TIMES ARE TO COME” Councillors in Knowsley have agreed a budget for 2014/15 which will see significant reductions in council services – and are warning of even worse times to come over the following two years.

Following drastic cuts in government funding, a huge range of savings will be implemented over the next 12 months, while the council must begin to identify a further £25m savings in 2015/16 and 2016/17.

The cuts are necessary as the government is slashing Knowsley’s funding by up to £44m – around a third – over the next three years. That comes on top of the £56m the council has already had to save since 2010.

It leaves Knowsley as the worst affected authority in the country.

In 2014/15, Knowsley is losing funding of £172 per household, compared to an average cut of £62 per household across the country.

While the council is endeavouring to protect key frontline services, the scale of the government’s funding cuts means council services across the borough will be severely affected.

Among the savings in 2014/15 will be reductions in family centre provision, the removal of school clothing grants, the transfer of Whiston Library to the community and a reduction in the frequency of litter picking and the emptying of litter bins.

Cllr Norman Keats

The council will also need to further reduce the size of its workforce.

Despite those challenges, the council has identified investments to improve the long-term sustainability of the borough, such as the release of land to allow housing developments to progress at the earliest opportunity.

Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by residents, the council has also agreed to freeze Council Tax once again for 2014/15.

Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for finance and IT, Cllr Norman Keats, said:

“The budget decisions we are faced with are becoming increasingly difficult, as the sheer scale of the government’s cuts really bites.

“If people think these cuts imposed by the government are hurting our borough, they haven’t seen anything yet when you compare them to the devastating wave of government funding cuts coming around the corner in 2015/16 and 2016/17.

“The government’s own measure of • Continued on Page 4

Saturday 29 March 2014 - 10.00am - 4.00pm

2 March 2014

JAMES BULGER MUM CALLS FOR MEETING WITH PM FOLLOWING TWITTER TROLLS Following the 21st anniversary of the murder of James Bulger, vile trolls took to twitter to ‘glorify’ the murder of a three year old boy, commenting about sexually abusing babies, and sniping at Denise Fergus directly.

The two accounts purported to be Jon Venables, one of James’ killers.

These accounts were instantly reported to the high tech crime unit at Merseyside Police by Liverpool City Councillor Jake Morrison and Denise Fergus’s husband Stuart.

Now the mother of James Bulger is requesting to meet the Government so that a clear law be introduced to deal with this behaviour.

Denise Fergus (@Denise_Fergus) took to twitter to say: “Absolutely sickening that ppl can get away with impersonating child murderers this trolling has 2 stop. Mr Cameron please meet me.” “many ppl r being trolled on here shouldn’t be allowed 2 get away with it. I cant disclose any info about V (Venables) & T (Thompson) why can ppl pretend to be them”.

Liverpool City Councillor Jake Morrison is working with Denise Fergus on this campaign, advising her on the political aspect.

Cheryl Mullins from Grace Lea and Laura McCumiskey from One Ark

New Prescot business wins a shop thanks to One Ark

Denise Fergus - completely outraged

“I have been with Denise a few times over the past few weeks, which have been tough for her due to the 21st anniversary of James’s tragic murder.

“I was completely outraged to see the twitter accounts being setup and shared across twitter. The tweets were incredibly vile, and the worst I have ever seen.

“Denise is right in her calls for a simple clear law on handling this behaviour.

People need to take responsibility for their actions and comments.

“If those tweets were shouted out in the street, they would be arrested, but people get away with it when hiding behind a keyboard.”

A new furniture shop will be opening in Prescot Shopping Centre thanks to a local charity’s campaign to support entrepreneurship.

Late last year One Ark, part of the First Ark Group, launched a competition to support a local retailer by providing a unit rent-free for a year.

Grace Lea, a furniture upcycling and restoration business, will open its doors on 1st June 2014.

As the brainchild of Knowsley-based owner Cheryl Mullins, Grace Lea will sell a range of high quality restored vintage furniture and bespoke items at affordable prices.

As the furniture will be restored on site, Cheryl will also host workshops from the unit, which will teach others the skills they need to upcycle their own smaller items.

Following a three-stage process, Cheryl beat off competition from 25 other business owners to win the space in the shopping centre.

Her business will now benefit from a 12 month rent-free period, full refurbishment of the premises which will be completed by Vivark, and structured business advice and support from the Merseyside Special Investment Fund, The Women’s Organisation and Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council.

Cheryl also wins membership of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce.

Laura McCumiskey from One Ark was one

CHANGE OF DATE

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Due to unforeseen circumstances, please note that the dates and times have been changed for the production of The Wizard Of Oz at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park.

The original dates were Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May, they have now been changed to Saturday 26th April and Sunday 27th April and the times on the Sunday have been changed to 1pm and 5pm.

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of the first to congratulate Cheryl: “When Cheryl met with the panel of judges she blew us away with her enthusiasm and entrepreneurship.

“We were searching for a unique, independent retailer to add value to our high street, and Cheryl’s business plan was robust and showed talent.

“Grace Lea, which will occupy a unit that’s been empty for three years, will be a welcome addition to the shopping centre.”

Owner Cheryl Mullins adds: “This is an amazing opportunity for me to be able to get my business up and running and provide for my family.

“To be able to operate rent-free for a year will enable me to focus on establishing and growing the business rather than worrying about covering such a large overhead.

“I’m looking forward to learning from the self-employment support and developing my business, while at the same time being able to give something back to the community too.”

One Ark’s ‘Win a Shop’ project supports the regeneration of local high streets through championing new enterprise and supporting the journey into self-employment.

The project was initiated by One Ark in partnership with Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, Vivark, CBRE, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, The Women’s Organisation, Prescot Town Team, Poco Coffee and Sergeants Accountants.

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Torrington Drive Community Association is hosting a St Patrick’s themed social evening. This invitation is open to anyone with a disability and their support.

The evening will include a disco, raffle, the opportunity to socialise with friend, and your songs from your favourite Irish musicians.

The evening will take place on Friday 14 March from 6-9pm at the New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT During the evening a selection of hot food, confectionary, and cold/hot drinks will be available to purchase from the Green Room Community Café based on site.

Entry fee is £2 and raffle tickets will be on sale throughout the evening. To avoid over capacity, please contact Brian Powell to book your place, on the 07759 409 215

March 2014 3

PLANS SUBMITTED TO IMPROVE RAILWAY LINE Network Rail has submitted plans for a new section of railway near Huyton station as part of the £600m Northern Hub investment to provide faster, more frequent services across the north of England.

Work is already underway to improve capacity between Manchester and Liverpool to increase the number of tracks through Huyton and Roby from two to four.

An application has been submitted to the Secretary of State for Transport, following successful consultation last year, to gain consent to complete work on the fourth track on adjacent land currently occupied by a telephone exchange and bus station.

Planning permission is required through a Transport and Works Act Order - to construct a new 240m section which will allow additional non-stopping

services to run on the line without being held-up behind local stopping services and freight trains.

Martin Frobisher, area director for Network Rail, said: “The Northern Hub will transform the railway in the north of England. It will create space for up to 700 more trains every day which will boost capacity and provide better journey options for passengers.

“The plans at Huyton and Roby are a key part of this investment and will help to increase capacity on the line between Liverpool and Manchester.”

Subject to consent, work is expected to be complete by the end of 2017.

More information is available at www.networkrail.co.uk/huytonroby.

The Northern Hub is due to be completed by 2019. More details are available at www.networkrail.co.uk/northernhub.

Supersonic car greets guests

The Mayor of Knowsley Cllr Brian O’Hare tries out the Bloodhound simulator watched by Steve Logan

Knowsley Community College held the launch of its new Princess Drive Campus in Huyton to showcase how their curriculum’s programmes prepare young people for industry.

Greeting more than a thousand guests over the day was the Bloodhound Supersonic Car, which is shortly aiming to break the land speed record and travel at 1000mph.

An enthused Steve Logan, principal of Knowsley Community College commented on how valuable the launch was to all that participated. “Our event was an opportunity to highlight a fantastic example of the UK’s ability to be at the forefront of technology and science and we want to inspire young people to ‘think big’ and have an impact on the country and the world.

“We hired a marque big enough to hold the 14 metre long Bloodhound car which enticed a record turnout from more than100 local employers and stakeholders including head teachers and community representatives.”

In addition, more than 400 local schoolchildren from primary and secondary schools attended plus more than 500 guests from the local community all of whom were given a tour of the campus. Many also took part in a range of ‘Have a Go’ STEM sessions on the day.

Mr Logan added: “It was a delight to host the Bloodhound Supersonic car. Our state of the art facilities, coupled with the very high standards of teaching and support in the College, mean that young people are now well equipped with the skills, qualifications and behaviours to enter and have successful careers in the engineering and construction industries.

“This is a great facility for Knowsley too. By hosting the Bloodhound Supersonic car at our official opening, it’s been a great opportunity for hundreds of local employers, school children and members of the community to witness what Knowsley Community College is offering.”

4 March 2014

• Continued from Page 1

“WORSE TIMES ARE TO COME”

spending power per household shows that Knowsley is the hardest hit metropolitan authority in the country.

While the average cut across the country is £62 per household, we are losing £172 per household. At the same time, Wokingham in Surrey – a similarsized authority to Knowsley – is actually gaining funding of £5 per household.

“What we will continue to do is identify and implement these savings in a prioritised and planned manner with the needs of residents being at the heart of everything we do. However, let’s be in doubt that the government’s funding cuts are now so deep and so damaging that people will really see the impact of these cuts in the coming years. There is no doubt that Knowsley’s most difficult days lie ahead.”

Council leader Cllr Ron Round said: "It's our job to deal with these challenges as best as we can. The easy options have already been taken. The painful part is still yet to come. The people of Knowsley will remember who it was who stood up for them."

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY Over 70 young people took part in Knowsley Young People’s Question Time, held at OurPlace Youth Facility in Huyton recently.

The event was delivered by Knowsley’s Youth Parliament and Young Advisors as part of their campaign to work closely with elected members and decision makers in the borough under the banner ‘If you want us to buy into democracy, you need to talk to us, not about us.’

The panel was chaired by Sheena Ramsey, chief executive of Knowsley Council, who was joined by Matthew Ashton, director of public health for Knowsley; Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley’s cabinet member for leisure, community and culture; Steve Logan, principal of Knowsley Community College; Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber; Dr Peter Ayegba, GP and CCG mental health lead and Robyn Dooley, Knowsley Member of Youth Parliament.

Young people from across the borough asked the panel a diverse set of questions on issues including bullying, apprenticeships mental health and Votes at 16.

The event allowed the senior decision makers to hear young people’s views and discuss the following key issues identified

by Knowsley’s young people in the Make Your Mark Ballot conducted in October 2013: • Zero tolerance to bullying in schools /

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The Panel at Knowsley Young Peoples Question Time 2014.

colleges • Better work experience and careers advice • Mental health services and education should be improved • Apprenticeships • A curriculum to prepare young people for life Sheena Ramsey, chief executive of Knowsley Council, said: “I am delighted that I was once again invited to chair the panel and to discuss the issues that are important to young people, in what was another lively and constructive debate. It was a great success.

“Many adults presume young people are not interested in politics but that is certainly not the case in Knowsley.

“I’m very proud of how passionate our young people are about having a voice

and holding us to account on the issues important to them.”

Cllr Eddie Connor, added: “The event was a fantastic opportunity to hear what our young people are thinking and to debate a range of issues.

“I was really pleased to take part and I feel that young people should have the opportunity to get involved in politics as early as possible. The more young people who get involved the better.

“We want to work closely with young people in Knowsley, after all, they are the leaders of the future.”

If you’re a young person living in Knowsley and would like to get involved in young people’s voice, contact The Rights & Participation Team on 443 5745 or visit www.shout4knowsley.com

Kirkby’s RSPCA Veterinary Clinic to close The longstanding RSPCA veterinary clinic in Southdene, Kirkby is to close its doors for the last time on Tuesday 8th April 2014.

Originally established in 1963 at the recreation ground in Cherryfield Drive, the clinic relocated to Broad Lane in 1998.

RSPCA Liverpool Branch which funds the clinic has been advised that the premises and facilities available no longer meet the standards set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, The British Veterinary Association and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and that it would be too expensive for the branch to bring the clinic up to the required standard.

The Branch also wishes to concentrate its veterinary work on the cats and dogs brought to its kennels in Halewood by RSPCA Inspectors.

The Clinic was originally opened at the request of the then local authority for the area which was concerned that there were no veterinary practices available to the new residents who relocated to the area in the 1960s.

There are now two veterinary practices in Kirkby, Barn Lodge at 9 Old Farm Road, Southdene, Kirkby and Kirkby Vets at 1

Moorfields, Kirkby as well as the PDSA in Woolfall Heath Avenue, Huyton, Liverpool.

The Clinic was run for many years by volunteers Joan Room and her daughter Sue Johnson supporting the vets. Sue took over the management of the Clinic on her mother’s death in 2007 and has been assisted by Jeanette Hardwick since then.

Existing clients should try to call at the Clinic which is open on Tuesday mornings between 9.00am and 11.30am to collect their veterinary records that can be taken to another practice.

CHARITY COLLECTING TINS Do you live or work in the Kirkby area?

Could you spare just a few hours every couple of months?

If the answer to this is “yes” the Merseyside community fundraising office for Marie Curie Cancer Care needs your help to look after collecting tins in your local area. A full kit will be provided along with a list of shops, pubs, cafes and other small local businesses who have already offered to display a tin.

For more information and to offer to help, contact Antony on 0151 801 1412.

March 2014 5

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Knowsley’s qualified apprentices are set to graduate at Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral this year at the UK’s biggest ever graduation for apprentices.

The Apprenticeship Graduation (Liverpool City Region), taking place on 29 April 2014, aims to give qualified apprentices the same recognition that university students receive on the completion of a degree.

Whilst graduations are common place up and down the country for university students, the Apprenticeship Graduation event is unique in being the first for apprentices in the North West region.

Apprentices from all six Liverpool City Region boroughs will be attending the graduation, which is open to all 2012/2013 qualified level 3 and 4 NVQ apprentices.

Councillor Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “The Apprenticeship Graduation

is a fantastic event supported by the City Region’s Employment and Skills Board and it’s great that we will get to properly recognise the hard work that our region’s apprentices put in to achieve their qualification.

“We are expecting a great turn out from Knowsley’s qualified apprentices and it will be brilliant to see them celebrating with their friends and family on 29th April at the Anglican Cathedral.”

The prestigious graduation will be held over two separate sessions to allow a thousand qualified apprentices to graduate on the day.

The afternoon ceremony will take place at 2:30pm and the evening ceremony at 6:30pm.

Sophie Hunter, a qualified business administration apprentice who works for Knowsley based Fieldway Supplies, said: “I have thoroughly

Apprentice: Sophie Hunter

enjoyed my apprenticeship with Fieldway Supplies. It was great to learn skills on the job whilst also completing my level 2 and level 3 NVQ. “I think the Apprenticeship Graduation is a great idea and I can’t wait to attend the ceremony!”

The 3,000 potential apprentice graduates will be sent a letter, in which it will explain how they can register for a ticket.

Tickets for the event are free and apprentices can bring a maximum of two guests.

6 March 2014

Fazakerley junior soldier wins top prize

£5M KIRKBY CENTRE OPENS TO PUBLIC The £5m Kirkby Centre is now open, bringing together a range of key local services under one roof.

Knowsley Council has transformed the tired, dated building on Norwich Way into a modern, fit-for-purpose facility.

The project is a key part of the regeneration of Kirkby Town Centre and has been delivered on time and within budget.

The Kirkby Centre is home to: • Library • Gallery • Local history archive • One Stop Shop • Kirkby’s Knowsley Works team • Adult Disability Day Service • Community meeting rooms • Independent coffee shop • Changing Places changing and toilet facilities When the overall regeneration

programme has been completed, the Kirkby Centre will open out onto an attractive new public square.

Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills, Cllr Dave Lonergan, said: “The Kirkby Centre is a fantastic facility which will enable residents to access a number of key services in one modern building.

“We are making huge investments in Kirkby Town Centre to give our residents the facilities they deserve. As well as the £5m investment in the Kirkby Centre, we will also shortly be opening the new £2.5m Kirkby Market and we have attracted major private sector investment into the town.

“I’m delighted that the Kirkby Centre is now open to residents and it represents a major step forward in the wider regeneration programme to transform Kirkby Town Centre.”

A Junior Soldier from Fazakerley, Liverpool, received a top prize when he graduated from the prestigious Army Foundation College in Harrogate.

Bradley Ellington (17) was awarded the Nord Anglia Cup, which is the Army College’s Education Award, in spite of leaving school with no qualifications at all.

Bradley joined the Army Foundation College in March last year for a unique 42 week long course combining vocational education and military training.

“When I rang my mum to tell her I’d won a prize she thought I was kidding her,” said Bradley. “Then she wanted to know what for! Now she and my dad are really proud.”

Over 81 per cent of the junior soldiers who joined the longer 42 week course were successful, marching off the parade square towards the second phase of their training in the Infantry, Royal Artillery and Royal Armoured Corps.

On the course, Bradley gained a Duke of Edinburgh’s award and a National Vocational Qualification in Maths, English and IT at level 2.

“The prize awarded to Bradley is the culmination of many months of hard work and dedication,” said Lieutenant Colonel Oz Lane, the College’s Commanding Officer.

“He can be rightly proud of his achievements at the College, and the staff and I wish him well as he goes forward to the second phase of his training which he hopes will be with the Irish Guards.”

The General Officer Commanding 3 UK Division, Major General James Cowan CBE DSO, inspected the 450-strong parade and

Writing competition invites contestants on a ‘Journey’

DOMESTIC ABUSE –

Creative writers from across the region are invited to submit fiction to the 2014 Prescot Festival Short Story Competition.

A £100 prize goes to the winner of the best short story inspired by this year’s theme, ‘Journey’.

Last year’s contest was so close, judges not only picked winner Jim Finn, for his story “A Tragic Contrast”, but awarded two bonus prizes of £25 each to runners-up Ianthe Pickles and Carole Browne.

Now in its third year, the competition is open to all nonprofessional writers resident in any of the six local boroughs of Knowsley, St Helens, Sefton, Halton, Wirral and Liverpool.

“We’ve seen an increasingly high standard of writing in the last couple of years”, said contest founder Edna Weaver, “so we’re excited to see how our talented entrants choose to interpret this year’s theme.”

Full rules are available at www.prescotfestival.co.uk The winner will be announced during the 10th Annual Prescot Festival of Music & the Arts, which runs from Friday 20 to Sunday 29 June 2014.

‘It’s all about choices’ – that’s the message from the Safer Knowsley Partnership’s latest campaign targeting both victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse.

The message will be seen across the borough on taxis, buses and roadside adverts, as well as fire engines.

The aim of the campaign is to encourage victims to take the first step and report it and inform perpetrators that they have a choice and they can get help to change their behaviour. Help really is only a phone call away.

Sheena Ramsey, joint Chair of the

presented Junior Soldier Ellington with his award.

“I’ve enjoyed the military exercises on the course,” said Bradley, “as they gave loads of new challenges and excitement.

“I left school with no qualifications and no opportunities, but now the Army College has given me opportunities in the Army itself.”

Junior Soldiers work on their leadership and team skills as part of the College’s personal and team development package.

They undertake a number of adventurous training activities, as well as physical and mental challenges, culminating in a 30 hour challenge patrol in the Yorkshire Dales or Scotland. The students are also given the opportunity to sample a wide variety of sports promoting fitness and agility.

IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICES Safer Knowsley Partnership, said “Through this high profile campaign, we are helping to let both men and women know that they don’t have to accept domestic abuse – they have a choice. Through our campaign, help and support is available for victims and they are encouraged to take the first step and report it.

Perpetrators are encouraged to seek help and support to stop the cycle of abuse.”

Domestic abuse can take many forms, including verbal, psychological, emotional, social, financial and sexual, as well as physical.

Call Knowsley’s Domestic

Violence helpline on 0800 953 4433 for help and support. Alternatively, Knowsley Domestic Violence Support Services offer a range of support and programmes to help both victims and perpetrators – call 0151 548 3333.

March 2014 7

Advertising Feature

SIMPLE STEPS TO HELP YOU SAVE MONEY AND ENERGY! Fletchrose Heat Team has launched an ʻEnergy Saving Guideʼ a free online download that offers simple tips and hints that will help households reduce their energy consumption and save money.

The all year round guide has been developed to encourage residents to take a number of easy, simple steps

around the home and help generate almost instant savings.

Paul Durose, Chief Executive of Fletchrose Heat Team said: “As a heating provider, we are seeing the same issues cropping again and again up in the homes we visit.

“We felt that it would be handy and beneficial to have something online

that people could just download and refer to as and when.”

The energy saving guide encompasses boiler and thermostat use, insulation, energy switching, water use and much more.

Paul added: “We know how much savings can be realised by switching to an energy efficient boiler and

customers fairly quickly.

“However, there are other smaller measures that can be made at zero cost and we want to encourage people to look at these factors that will help make a difference.”

You really can cut your energy bills ‐ we have 10 top tips: 1. Try turning down your central heating thermostat by one degree. It could cut your heating bill by £55 per year 2. If you have a programmer, set it so that the heating only comes on when needed. Switching off your boiler when no oneʼs home is a great way of saving energy and money 3. You can reduce the energy your boiler consumes by up to 40 per cent with an efficient room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves 4. Replacing a 10–year‐old boiler with an efficient A‐rated new one could reduce your energy consumption by a third. (If every household in the country installed a high-efficiency boiler, the energy saved would be enough to provide heating and power for almost two million homes!)

5. Use an appropriate draught excluder around doors, windows, letterboxes and keyholes. However, do not block or seal any air vents which ensure that the central heating boiler operates safely 6. Lower the hot water temperature.

Your thermostat neednʼt be higher than 60 degrees centigrade (140 degrees Fahrenheit). Any higher and you will only be mixing it with cold water to cool it back down for use 7. Buy a new insulation jacket for your hot water tank – around £12. It should be 75mm or three inches thick and it can save you around £35 per year 8. If you improve the energy efficiency of your home, perhaps by installing loft or cavity wall insulation, your house will heat up and cool down at a different rate. To maximise savings try reducing the time your heating system is switched on. Insulation can help reduce up to 30% of heat loss through the roof of your property.

9. Service your boiler regularly.

Breakdowns are much less likely and you can ensure itʼs safer and more efficient, thus reducing your energy bills.

10. Take a shower! A daily bath can use about 13,000 litres more water per year than a five–minute shower. The average Brit could more than halve the climate impact of their ablutions simply by cutting out baths and making showers shorter and cooler.

8 March 2014

Out & About MARCH TUESDAY 11 MARCH HOLLIES HALL INDOOR BOWLING 12:00pm – 3:30pm Hollies Hall, Hollies Road, Halewood, L26 0TH. They run an indoor bowls activity (not 10 pin) on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday.

Playing on 2 mats, 12 people to each mat. For ages 21+ Times 12 noon-3.30/4.00pm TUESDAY 11 MARCH HAPPY HOURS - CHAIR EXERCISE AND SOCIAL GROUP 10:30am – 12:30pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood. Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 9TW. Chair Exercise/ Boccia/ Pool. Social and light lunch for 55s and over. £2.00 per week subs. £1 raffles.

Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444 TUESDAY 11 MARCH MIDAS TOUCH 9:30am – 11:00am Southmead Children’s Centre, Sherwood Drive, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3XZ. Creative recycling project based on the approaches of Reggio Emilia in Italy where children can enhance their creativity through exploring with open ended objects. For more details contact: Kelly Wallace, 0151 443 4531, familyvoices@live.co.uk TUESDAY 11 MARCH LONGVIEW KNITWITS 1pm – 4pm Longview Shops, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6DY. Would like to invite you to join them to knit and crochet items for the neo-natal unit of the Liverpool Women's Hospital. For further information or to donate wool, please contact: Mary 07845 419766 TUESDAY 11 MARCH BACK TO NETBALL 8pm – 9pm Knowsley Park Centre for Learning, Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD. Back to Netball aims to re-introduce women aged 16+ back to the sport after a period of not playing (perhaps you haven't played since school and want to get fit again in a fun activity). £2 per session. Contact Peter Green 443 5648 for details.

TUESDAY 11 MARCH PARENT & TODDLER SESSIONS 3pm – 3pm Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Parent & Toddler Sessions - cost 50p Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood

email your events to: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT TUESDAY 11 MARCH KIRKBY GIRLS GROUP 6:30pm – 8:30pm Westvale Community and Youth Centre, Richard Hesketh Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0TZ. Girls group project based at Westvale Youth Centre for 11 to 19 year olds. Contact Charlotte Brookes, 0151 443 4168, charlotte.brookes@knowsley.gov.uk TUESDAY 11 MARCH NORTH HUYTON THinK CLINIC 3pm – 6pm North Huyton Primary Care Centre, Woolfallheath Avenue, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 3TN. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936 WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH JUNIOR ARTISTS CLUB 4:00pm – 5:45pm The Environment Centre, Okell Drive, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 7XB. Junior Artists Club (JAC) is for all children with interest in any arts & crafts based activities. Painting, drawing, drama games, sculpture, writing, etc. Every week is different. Many sessions relate to environment, nature, or local interests.

Age: 7-11 years Cost: £2 to cover snacks and materials.

Contact Carole Trenaman at halewoodarts@gmail.com or call into Environment Centre Wednesday afternoons.

WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH ZUMBA CLASS 6:30pm – 8:00pm Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Zumba Class - cost £3.00 Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH AFTER SCHOOL CLUB 4:00pm – 6:30pm Vee’s Place, Zion Independent Methodist Church Hall, 74 Kemble Street, Prescot, L34 5SH. After School Club for 10-16yrs olds, Games, Sport, Art, Crafts, Music, Karaoke, Workshops, Outdoor area, Volunteer work.

Registration fee Youth £3. Parents need to sign consent forms. Subscriptions (per activity) £2.50 includes refreshments. Registered Charity 1093064 Contact: Vee Rhodes, 0151 289 3602, vee.rhodes@talktalk.net WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH OLDER PEOPLE'S FUN OLYMPICS 1pm – 4pm Kirkby Leisure Centre, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 8SA. Come along to one of our training sessions. Cost £1. For more details on these

sessions please contact Geoff Lyon on 0151 430 7710 or email GgeoffLyon@aol.com WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH LINE DANCING 10am – 11am Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A fun way to keep fit and active, suitable for all ages and abilities. Price: £3 Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH CENTRE 63 YOUTH CLUB 4:30pm – 8:30pm Centre 63 Youth Club, Church of England Youth Centre, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 5TH. The Youth club in Centre 63 is open access for all young people aged 8 - 25 living in Knowsley The Youth Club focuses on giving Young People a safe and friendly environment to come and socialise with their peers, develop social skills, community awareness and participate in positive projects and activities, including a chance to take part in new activities and experiences.

The centre also runs the following sexual health workshops, drugs awareness workshops and various music workshops from recording to learning to play an instrument Monday, Wednesday, Thursday. 4.30 - 8.30 open age THURSDAY 13 MARCH ARNCLIFFE CENTRE YOGA CLASS 10:00am – 11:30am Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA. Yoga class for relaxation exercise, breathing, stretching and feeling good. For teens and adults. Please contact for costs.

Contact: June Baxter, 0151 486 3874, c/o Arncliffe Sports and Community Centre, Arncliffe Road, Halewood, L25 9PA THURSDAY 13 MARCH TOP TOTS STAY AND PLAY SESSION 9:30am – 11:00am Phoenix Children’s Centre, Bryer Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5DN. Fun filled session where you and your child can meet others and engage in quality play. For more details contact: Kelly Wallace, 0151 443 4531, familyvoices@live.co.uk THURSDAY 13 MARCH OLDER PEOPLE'S FUN OLYMPICS 1:30pm – 3:30pm Huyton Leisure & Culture Park, Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. Come along to one of our training sessions. Cost £1. For more details on these sessions please contact Geoff Lyon on 0151 430 7710 or email GgeoffLyon@aol.com THURSDAY 13 MARCH SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLUB 12pm – 4pm Copthorne Adventure Playground, Copthorne Walk, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0RP. Jus Kidz offers inclusive clubs for children and young people with disabilities and their siblings from the Knowsley area, when they need them most, evenings and weekends. The clubs offers a safe environment for indoor and outdoor play and a range of different activities. We also provide school holiday Playschemes including whole of 6-7 weeks summer activities, provide respite for families caring for children and young people with disabilities and their siblings. For ages: 11-25 Yrs Contact details: Cathy Manley, 0151 546 3622, 07917275559 jus_kidz@hotmail.com, St Peter and Pauls Church, Apostles Way, Tower Hill, L33 1XT THURSDAY 13 MARCH YOUTH CLUB FOR AGE 12+ 6:30pm – 9:30pm Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Youth Club for age 12+ - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 6.30pm to 9.30pm - cost 50p Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT THURSDAY 13 MARCH JUNIOR ATHLETICS SESSIONS 5:30pm – 6:45pm Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 9PP. Junior Athletics Coaching at Kirkby athletics track. Ages 7-19. Free to attend. No booking required just turn up. Contact Peter Green 443 5648, peter.green@knowsley.gov.uk FRIDAY 14 MARCH OUR PLACE THinK CLINIC 3pm – 6pm Our Place, Longview Lane, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 3YE. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936 FRIDAY 14 MARCH FRIDAY STAY AND PLAY 9:30am – 11:00am Southmead Children’s Centre, Sherwood Drive, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3XZ. Fun filled session where you and your child can meet others and engage in quality play. For more details contact: Kelly Wallace, 0151 443 4531, familyvoices@live.co.uk FRIDAY 14 MARCH CALL OF DANCE 4:30pm – 6:30pm Call of Dance, Swanside Community Centre, Willoughby Road, Huyton, Merseyside, L14 6XA. Street Dance class run Fridays 4.30pm - 6.30pm at Swanside Community Centre. Ages form 11+. Cost per session is £4. Pupils are entered into shows when they are held. Contact: Kimberley 07902107586, Kim_nbc@hotmail.co.uk

ONE NOT TO MISS

ON NOW LOCAL HEROES, DISTANT VOICES 9.15am - 5pm Monday and Friday, 9.15am 7pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10am - 1pm Wednesday and Saturday. Come along to mark 100 years since the start of the First World War. Displays include soldiers' photographs, documents, medals and personal effects.

SATURDAY 15 MARCH BUSHCRAFT 1pm – 5pm Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, L34 4AN. Bushcraft - learn fire lighting, shelter building, animal tracking and more Suitable for families, young people and adults. Half and full days available. Groups and individuals. Cost U16 £15.00 4 hour session, Over 16 £25.00 4 hour session. Special rates for families and groups. Minimum age for unaccompanied young people is 8 Years of age.

Contact Komaru Outdoors Nick@komaru.co.uk or Tel 07729295923 SATURDAY 15 MARCH KITE MAKING WORKSHOP 1pm -3pm Court Hey Park. Learn how to make your own kite and have a go at flying it in the park. Let’s hope for windy weather!

SATURDAY 15 MARCH HALEWOOD JUNIOR BADMINTON CLUB 10am – 12pm Halewood Junior Badminton Club, Halewood Leisure Centre, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 0TY. Coaching/playing Badminton for juniors 9-16 years old. Open to all interested parties, beginners, intermediate and advanced players. Coached by Badminton England qualified coaches. Competitive and social - Liverpool League Junior Badminton League and Tournaments. All equipment provided. Suitable clothing required i.e. trainers, joggers, etc. Cost £1 at desk and £1 organisers Contact Jean Dean 0151 280 8595 SATURDAY 15 MARCH SUPERSATURDAYS 10am – 1pm Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. Children and young people will meet every Saturday to participate in fun creative activities. They can explore other art forms too such as story telling, imaginary play, music and movement, cookery and messy play. These workshops are an exciting opportunity for disabled children and young people to enjoy creative engagement whilst having fun, meeting new friends and showcasing their talents to others. Cost £2 a session For more information please contact Katy McLoughlin 0151 443 5749 or email:Katy.McLoughlin@knowsley.gov.uk SATURDAY 15 MARCH HALEWOOD JUNIORS 10:30am – 12:00pm Halewood Juniors, Arncliffe Sports & Community Centre, Halewood, Merseyside, L25 9PA. We encourage young people to play football and netball from an early age, train and develop players to complete in teams. We have 11 football teams, Under 7’s through to Under 16’s. 1 adult netball team. Beginners’ sessions each Saturday 10.30 – 12.00. £1 per child per session football coaching. Contact: Joe McGuinness 07572108735, j.mcguinness@blueyonder.co.uk SUNDAY 16 MARCH KITE MAKING WORKSHOP 1pm - 3pm McGoldrick Park. 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.

SUNDAY 16 MARCH TRACKING 10am – 4pm Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, L34 4AN. Learn the skills to track animals and people. Our one day workshop is a great introduction to all the skills needed to track successfully. It's great fun for everybody.

Tracking sessions very interactive and great for groups and families. £25.00 U16, £45.00 for adults. Contact: Komaru Outdoors Nick@komaru.co.uk or Tel 07729 295923 www.komaru.co.uk MONDAY 17 MARCH HUYTON CHILDREN’S THEATRE 5:00pm – 6:30pm Lord Derby Academy, Seel Road, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6DG. Huyton Children’s Theatre is a group for children aged 7 - 11 who want to develop drama skills, have fun, work with others and create new and exciting theatre productions. Each year the group create 2 performances that are showcased to parents, friends and family. Session costs £1 per week.

Contact: hello@altu.co.uk 0151 443 0333

March 2014 9 MONDAY 17 MARCH WEEKLY FOOTBALL COACHING 5pm – 6pm Prescot Soccer Centre, Warrington Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5AD. Weekly football coaching sessions. Fully qualified football coaches trained to Level 2 & 3 standard. Football coaching for 5 11years, cost £3 per child - suitable footwear and clothing required as all football coaching will be outdoors. Contact: Barry Lloyd 07825145105 or 0151 443 5715, barry.lloyd@knowsley.gov.uk MONDAY 17 MARCH HALEWOOD THinK CLINIC 3pm – 6pm The Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 9UH. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936 MONDAY 17 MARCH KNOWSLEY VILLAGE YOUTH CLUB 6:30pm – 8:30pm Knowsley Village Youth Club, Knowsley Lane, Knowsley Village, Merseyside, L34 0BB. Generic youth club offering awards, issues based projects and trips out through the school holidays Age Range 11-19 years. Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Peter Boardman - 07766558895 TUESDAY 18 MARCH HALEWOOD YOUTH THEATRE 6:30pm – 8:30pm Halewood Academy Centre for Learning, The Avenue, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU. Halewood Youth Theatre is an inclusive youth theatre, producing challenging, exciting work in collaboration with other youth theatre groups in the area.

The group is for anyone aged 12 - 21. No experience necessary - just the desire to get involved, have fun, work hard and be creative! Session costs £1 per week.

Contact Altru for more information - hello@altu.co.uk 0151 443 0333

TUESDAY 18 MARCH YOUTH CLUB 5pm – 7pm Interact session at Bryer Road Community Centre, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5DW. Generic youth club offering awards, issues based projects and trips out through the school holidays Age Range 11-19 years.

Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Peter Boardman 07766558895 TUESDAY 18 MARCH ACTING UP DISABLED DRAMA GROUP 5:30pm – 7:30pm The Youthy, Woolfall Heath Avenue, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 3YE. A bespoke drama group for young people with disabilities aged 12-25. Cost £1 a session. For more information please contact Katy McLoughlin 0151 443 5749 or email:Katy.McLoughlin@knowsley.gov.uk WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH KIRKBY CHILDREN'S THEATRE 5:30pm – 6:30pm Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue, Southdene, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 9PP. Kirkby Children's Theatre is a group for children aged 7 - 11 who want to develop drama skills, have fun, work with others and create new and exciting theatre productions. Each year the group create 2 performances that are showcased to parents, friends and family.

Session costs £1 per week. Contact Altru for more information - hello@altu.co.uk 0151 443 0333 WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH NORTHWOOD YOUTH CLUB 6:45pm – 9:15pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, KIRKBY, Merseyside, L33 9TW. Youth Club activity for 11 to 19 years. Contact: Lyn Pye, 0151 443 4466, lyn.pye@knowsley.gov.uk WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH WESTVALE YOUTH CLUB 6:45pm – 9:15pm Westvale Community and Youth Centre, Richard Hesketh Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0TZ. Youth Club activity for 11 to 19 years Contact: Charlotte Brooks, 0151 443 4466, charlotte.brookes@knowsley.gov.uk THURSDAY 20 MARCH REBOUND MUSICAL THEATRE 5pm – 6pm Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A chance to sing dance and have fun for ages 8+ Price: £3 Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ FRIDAY 21 MARCH GET GROWING FRIDAY - BIG DIG DAY 11am – 3pm National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, Merseyside, L16 3NA. FREE. Get Growing is a community health and wellbeing project to get more people involved in growing their own food and eating healthily. We work onsite with volunteers on our food growing areas including raised beds and small space garden displays. Whats happening.

BIG DIG DAY is a national volunteering day to encourage and promote involvement in community gardens. Come along and see what we’re up to and join

in. Time: Drop in between 11am - 3pm For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or emai events@landlife.org.uk SATURDAY 22 MARCH THE ARCH - THinK CLINIC 1pm – 3pm The Arch, 2 Ellison Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9GA. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936 MONDAY 24 MARCH LICKERS LANE YOUTH CLUB 6pm – 9pm Lickers Lane Youth Club, George Howard Centre, Lickers Lane, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3SR. Generic youth club offering awards, issues based projects and trips out through the school holidays Age Range 11-19 years. Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Peter Boardman - 07766558895 MONDAY 24 MARCH GUITAR CLUB 6pm – 8pm Halewood Academy Centre for Learning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU. Monday - Play chords (Intermediary level) Wednesday - (Beginners level) No music required. For ages 16 -100 yrs. Cost £5. Contact details: Chris Vernon, 0151 477 8830, Halewood Academy Centre for Learning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH HALEWOOD TAE KWON-DO CLUB 6pm – 7pm Halewood Academy, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU. Tae Kwon Do for ages 4 up. Cost £3.50 for 1 hour session, £5 for 2 hours. Monday, Wednesday and Friday Junior Beginners 6-7pm Junior Advanced 7-8pm Seniors 8-9pm Mondays & Wednesdays: Ladies Only 7-8pm Sundays: All students, fitness and sparring - 1-3pm. Contact: General Enquiries, 07891146224, c/o Halewood Academy, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU liverpool.taekwondo@yahoo.co.uk THURSDAY 27 MARCH OLDER PEOPLE'S FUN OLYMPICS 10:30am – 12:30pm Halewood Leisure Centre, Baileys Lane, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 0TY. Come along to one of our training sessions. Cost £1. For more details on these sessions please contact Geoff Lyon on 0151 430 7710 or email GgeoffLyon@aol.com THURSDAY 27 MARCH KIRKBY THinK CLINIC 3pm – 6pm Kirkby Health Suite, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 9PA. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact Jason Cole, 0151 443 4168, jason.cole@knowsley.gov.uk FRIDAY 28 MARCH HAPPY HOURS - ZUMBA 11:30am – 12:30pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood. Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 9TW. Adapted ZUMBA for over 55s. Tea/Coffee. £1.50 per session. Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444 FRIDAY 28 MARCH HALEWOOD YOUTH ZONE 6:30pm – 9:30pm Halewood Academy Centre For Learning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU. Offering awards work, boxercise, football, badminton. Age Range 11-19 years. Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Peter Boardman - 07766558895 FRIDAY 28 MARCH HAPPY HOURS - LINE DANCING 12:30pm – 1:30pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 9TW. Adapted dancing for over 55s Tea/Coffee £1.50 per session. Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444 FRIDAY 28 MARCH INDOOR SHORT MAT CARPET BOWLS 1:30pm – 2:30pm Northwood Community Centre, Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 9TW. Short mat indoor bowls for ever 55s. Tea/Coffee £1.50 per session. Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444 SATURDAY 29 MARCH AMERICAN WRESTLING SHOW 7:30pm – 9:30pm Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. This spectacular live American Wrestling show is aimed at all the family and is sure to entertain you over 2 exciting hours. Cheer the goodies and boo the baddies! There’s even a chance to met some of the superstars and get your photo taken. Tickets@ £10 Adults, £10 Children, £40 Family ticket (2 adults, 2 children). Group offer: Buy 10 get 1 free To book tickets call 0151 443 2200, group bookings 0151 443 5749 or call in to Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park. www.knowsley.gov.uk/tickets SUNDAY 30 MARCH NORTH REGION BMX CHAMPIONSHIPS 9am Knowsley Velodrome and BMX Park. Knowsley’s BMX track will be hosting the North Region BMX championships. Over 250 riders are expected to take part in this year’s event.

10 March 2014

Kirkby Children’s Centres receive ‘Outstanding’ verdict Kirkby Children’s Centres are celebrating after being the first group in the country to be rated ‘outstanding’ under the new Ofsted framework.

The Pride, the Eden, The Ark and Northwood children’s centres are the first group in the country to be given the top accolade by Ofsted since the inspectorate introduced much tougher criteria to judge whether children’s centres are meeting the needs of local families.

Inspectors heaped praise on the group of four centres, particularly for their work in targeting vulnerable families, even those who

GET GROWING Drop in to the National Wildflower Centre to find out about their Get Growing project on Friday 21 March, 11am – 3pm. It is part of their Great Outdoors community health and wellbeing project, to get more people involved in growing their own food and eating healthily.

For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or email annick@landlife.org.uk

may initially be reluctant to use the centre.

In fact, Ofsted said that children who had used services at the centre were better prepared for starting school than their peers, and that the commitment of staff to help families have what others take for granted was “astounding”.

A focused effort on the specific needs of families in the local area was also noted by Ofsted, who said that the children’s centres “tirelessly promote a culture of learning for children and adults”.

The Inspector said that “inequalities for disabled children and children with special educational needs are reduced effectively because they receive the right support in the most appropriate way” and that “support for parents to improve their employment prospects is very good”.

Meanwhile, Ofsted called the centres’ work with victims of domestic violence “exceptional”.

There was also praise for the work staff do in raising awareness about the free nursery places that the most vulnerable two-year-olds are entitled to, and said that, as a result, “almost all of them take up their nursery place and begin their journey to become ready for school.”

Summing up, Ofsted said: “Kirkby families

The Pride sensory garden

are firmly at the heart of everything that is done in the children’s centre group.

“Careful thought is given to what, how and where highly effective activities or services are delivered. Managers and staff are constantly looking for ways to improve their services so that the opportunities and life chances of families can be enhanced.”

The report also said: “The centre group buildings are a haven for families. They are resourced with high quality equipment and furniture. The most valuable resource, however, is the staff team.

The entire team is driven to provide the very best for the families they work with, whatever their level of contact with families.”

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Cllr Graham Wright, cabinet member for children and family services, said: “The Ofsted report makes fantastic reading, and the ‘Outstanding’ rating is thoroughly deserved.

“It is clear to anyone who has visited the centres that there is an incredible level of commitment and dedication to improving the lives of local families.

“I know that the centres are delighted with their Ofsted report, but despite this success – and being the first children’s centre group in the country to achieve an ‘Outstanding’ report under the new inspection criteria – they are absolutely committed to continuing to improve.”

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March 2014 11

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD …ON A BUDGET Families in Knowsley were given the chance to whip up a storm in the kitchen – and all on a budget.

They were invited to a series of roadshows throughout the week as part of a campaign called ‘Pass the book’ – demonstrating how families can cook healthy meals on a budget.

The cooking demonstrations were held in February, with free utensils for people taking part with The Challenge visiting St Edmund Arrowsmith Centre for Learning, Whiston to join in the fun.

The events were organised as a joint project involving KHT, the 5 Borough Partnerships, Knowsley Council and the Big Help Project.

People were invited to go along and help create a Knowsley themed cook book – with entries to the cook book being made up of recipes submitted by cafes, schools and food producers across Knowsley.

Tony Cahill, from First Ark Group, which KHT is part of, said: “This is all about giving people inspiration and there were expert chefs on hand to demonstrate how to cook tasty, family-friendly dishes to suit all budgets.

“We hope people enjoyed the food preparation and cookery, with taster sessions. We even had arts and crafts and soft play to keep children amused, as well as a free goody bag for every family”.

Cooking up a storm in the kitchen were left to right: Sky Glover (chef), Laura McCumskey and Sophie Flattery a volunteer from Knowsley Community College

12 March 2014

Health

LOCAL TRUST STAFF COMPLETE ‘MATCH FOR A DAY’ Members of staff from Liverpool Community Health (LCH) NHS Trust alongside their families and friends have completed a marathon 24 hour football match in aid of two cancer charities.

The gruelling 24 hour challenge took place 21-22 February at John Moores University, I.M. Marsh Campus in Aigburth.

The match was kicked off at 6pm by the Everton Football Club veteran Kevin Sheedy.

The players were split into two core squads consisting of eight players. To make the challenge more demanding, two players from each core squad were required to play throughout the 24 hour period with family members, friends and other LCH colleagues also taking part and showing their support.

The proceeds of the Match for the Day event will be split equally between Lyndale Cancer Support Centre in Huyton which is a voluntary group providing caring, support and help to people affected by cancer, and also to Cancer Research UK which is leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research.

There are more than 200 types of cancer, each with different causes, symptoms and treatments. Around 325,000 people were diagnosed with cancer in 2010 in the UK, that's around 890 people every day.

Paul Hughes, performance lead at LCH organised the event as his mum has been fighting cancer for the last 18 months.

She has been attending the Lyndale Centre and found it to be an amazing support network which is run by a team of dedicated volunteers.

Paul said: “Sadly my mum’s cancer has progressed further, we want to prevent other people from having to

go through the same experiences. Therefore we are donating the other half of the proceeds to Cancer Research UK to continue their work to discover and develop new treatments, and ultimately cures for cancer.

“There was a time on Saturday morning when we wondered if we would be able to see the match through to the end.

“It was much harder than we originally thought; tears, laughter and everyone pulling together helped us achieve our goal.

“My wife Catherine also showed her support in a

unique way and shaved off her hair at the event to raise money.”

Paul added: “A huge thanks go to LCH, John Moores University and Mersey STEM and to everyone who has supported the event.”

Originally the event aimed to raise £3000 for the charities; this target has been smashed and so far over £9000 has been raised.

If you would like to show your support for the team please visit the online donations page at the following link www.justgiving.com/teams/MatchForTheDay2014

Get up and join in with Family Futures Make Yours and Your Child’s Future a Healthy One! Family Futures is a FREE communitybased programme for children who are above their ideal weight.

At Family futures we offer a FUN way to learn about how to achieve a healthier lifestyle for children and parents too.

What is the programme?

• Designed by families for families (especially for 4 to 16-year-olds) • Join for three months with options to stay longer • Tailored programmes to suit everyone individually • FUN and INTERACTIVE individual and group sessions What are benefits of being part of Family Futures?

• Fitness tips for the whole family • After-school sessions to fit around your daily routine • Make new friends along the way Where is the programme?

Huyton, Kirkby, Whiston and Halewood

How can my child get involved?

You can self-refer your child or ask your GP or school nurse.

“My daughter and I really enjoyed the group sessions. I was able to express my concern with other parents. It was nice to know someone else is going through the same as me” - Mum and child, age 9

Special points of interest: • Start the programme any time • Collect FREE gifts during group activities • Take part in family cooking sessions and learn new skills • FREE vouchers to use in Knowsley Leisure Centres • Collect other FREEBIES along the way to keep the whole family following a healthy active lifestyle!

Family Futures… there with you every step of the way For more information and advice, give the Family Futures team a call on 0151 290 4336 or visit us online at www.5boroughspartnership.nhs.uk For more information on community services in Knowsley, which are run by 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, call our Patient Advice and Liaison Services on 0800 073 0578.

March 2014 13

14 March 2014

Education

Pupils ‘go bananas’ for Fairtrade School children across Knowsley went bananas in support of farmers and workers in developing countries getting a fair deal.

During Fairtrade Fortnight (24 February - 8 March) Knowsley mascot Mrs Banana visited schools across the borough promoting this year’s campaign – ‘Stick with Foncho to make bananas fair’– which encourages people to think about the producer behind the product.

Among the schools giving Mrs Banana a warm welcome was Cronton Church of England Primary, where children attended a Fairtrade assembly and heard how the Fairtrade system ensures smallholder farmers in developing countries receive a minimum price for their produce, plus a Fairtrade premium – an extra amount spent on improving farming practices and health, education and social projects.

Teacher Sarah Jones said: “We celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight every year as it’s important that our children learn about the issues facing farmers and workers in the developing world. Mrs Banana’s visit helped children understand this message in a fun and interactive way.”

Knowsley is a Fairtrade Borough and the council supports schools across the borough to achieve Fairtrade School status.

2014 marks the 20th year the Fairtrade mark has been used in the UK. To mark this anniversary St Bartholomew’s Church in Roby hosted a Fairtrade breakfast and chocolate tasting event.

Knowsley Council’s Mrs Banana mascot, Kirsty Martin with Cronton pupils, triplets, (L-R) Sam, John, and Josh Aney.

OUTDOOR LEARNING

Reception pupils (L-R:) Mimi, Eva, Kieran, Chloe, Hayley and Eleanor help start the work which will transform their school playing field into an outdoor learning oasis.

Pupils in Knowsley have begun work on a project to transform their school playing field into a vibrant oasis for outdoor learning.

Children from Malvern Primary School in Huyton have been busy planting hundreds of mixed woodland trees, creating a forest area.

Spring bulbs and sapling fruit trees have also been planted, which once established will form a beautiful orchard.

The impressive plans will see the school’s vast field developed into an exciting natural space boasting a wildflower meadow, turf labyrinth and science shack.

Pupils will have plenty of opportunity to exercise their green fingers as each year group will have its own allotment.

The children will also be able to enjoy pond-dipping, bug hunts and bird spotting from the hide.

Julie Peach, headteacher at Malvern Primary School, said: “We’re really delighted that so many parents joined the children as we celebrated the start of the work on our new, exciting outdoor learning space.

“It will be an amazing journey for everyone involved in the ambitious transformation plans.

“Pupils will have plenty of opportunities to get hands-on involvement with each phase of the project and of course they will reap the benefits of having a fantastic outdoor learning environment once all the work is complete.”

The Earl of Derby opens the new Lord Derby Academy The Dean Trust is delighted to announce the opening of their new school in Knowsley, Lord Derby Academy, Seel Road, Huyton.

At a special opening ceremony on Monday 10th February, which was attended by the Mayor and the chief executive of Knowsley Council , the Earl of Derby officially opened this new Academy and was keen to state that having met the Dean Trust team, he was confident to put his name against the school.

Tarun Kapur CBE the Chief Executive of The Dean Trust commented: “The reputation

of The Dean Trust is second to none and our outstanding staff have supported many schools in the north west.

“This is however different as The Dean Trust are bringing Lord Derby Academy into our family of schools and already there have been significant changes' The Dean Trust also has an outstanding teaching school, Ashton on Mersey, Sale, which is at the centre of the operation, providing school improvement to all of their academies and schools.

The headteacher, Mr Barry Bridden, who in his short time in office, has made significant impact said: “'We base all that we do on traditional values; children stand behind chairs, wear their uniform with pride and always bring in the correct equipment to their lessons.

“Respect is paramount and this has resulted in a 3% increase in attendance and a huge decrease in behaviour issues. We believe that Lord Derby Academy will become the school of choice for Knowsley parents, just as our other schools within The Dean Trust.”

He added: “The Academy team will continue to work with Knowsley local authority to ensure that standards are at the centre of every conversation.

“It was good to see so many Knowsley officials, primary headteachers and members there to celebrate the opening of our Academy.”

Chairman of the Trust, Mr Brian Rigby MBE was keen to invite in members of the local community to witness the changes that

have taken place.

“It is a credit to the new management team and staff that the school is already showing significant improvement. I urge parents to make every effort to visit the school during the school day to see for themselves what the reality is.”

March 2014 15

HUYTON MAN JAILED FOR TOBACCO SMUGGLING A man from Merseyside has been jailed for 53 months for smuggling counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes into the UK. Stephen Nicholas Riozzi, 53, from Huyton, had more than 182 kgs (400lbs) of hand rolling tobacco and 20 pallets of cigarettes at an industrial unit in Huyton in December 2011.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) said the find was worth £1.1m in evaded tax.

Riozzi pleaded guilty to fraudulent evasion of excise duty at Liverpool Crown Court in January.

When he was arrested, he gave investigators a false address and denied any knowledge of the illegal tobacco products.

But customs officers found more than £56,200 and 6,310 euros in cash hidden in wash bags in his wardrobe at his actual address.

Riozzi pleaded guilty to two counts of the

REWARDING PRESCOT’S COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

Stephen Riozzi - jailed for 53 months

fraudulent evasion of excise duty on a commercial quantity of cigarettes and tobacco and one count of possession of criminal property.

The seized cigarettes are branded Golden Seaglles, which are manufactured in the Far East and are not legitimately for sale in the UK, HMRC said.

The cigarettes and tobacco have been recycled to fuel the National Grid, a spokesman said.

Prescot’s unsung heroes have been celebrating this week after being nominated in a community award initiative run by Prescot Shopping Centre.

The awards, which ran in conjunction with Prescot Online, saw seven pillars of the community receive an award. The winners included: Bernard Hillier for best 999 Services, Mary Cowie for Best Neighbour, Darren & Anne Marie Smith for Best in Customer Service, Jon Hill for Best Community Worker and Roy Alexander for Best Charity Worker. Steve Nulty also received a special mention and reward for his work,

CHALLENGE COMPETITION

WE’RE OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD LIVE IN KNOWSLEY THIS APRIL Family favourite The Wizard of Oz is brought to the stage at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park on Saturday 26 April 7.00pm and Sunday 27 April 1.00pm and 5.00pm shows.

The show is being brought to Knowsley for a two-night run by Trio Entertainment Ltd following a hugely successful summer season in Blackpool last year.

The cast includes: S Club 7’s Tina Barrett as The Wicked Witch, CITV’s Hi 5 Chris Edgerley as The Tin Man and Eastenders ‘Lucy Beale’ Melissa Suffield as Dorothy This heartwarming show is filled with feel-good factor, as audiences meet classic characters the brainless Scarecrow, loveable Tin Man and cowardly Lion – not to mention our heroine Dorothy and her little dog Toto.

Join the friends as they follow the yellow brick road to a magical world filled with adventure.

Watch as they set out on a quest to thwart the evil powers of the Wicked Witch of the West and help Dorothy find her way home.

With a little help from Glinda, the Good Fairy, and the almighty and powerful Wizard of Oz, good is sure to conquer evil.

Packed with great songs, brilliant dance routines and plenty of laughter for all the family, the show promises to be one of the best in town this April!

Tickets are priced £10 for adults, £8 for children and concessions. And, if you’re coming as part of

a group, you’ll get one ticket free when you buy 10.

To book, call 0151 443 2200/ 0844 561 0622* (* booking fee applies).

The Challenge is giving you the chance to see The Wizard of Oz as it comes to the stage at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park. The ticket is for 2 adults and 2 children for the 7.00pm show on Saturday 26 April. Just answer the following question and send your answer by post card to: The Challenge Wizard of Oz Competition, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS or email your answer to thechallenge@merseymirror.com. Please include an telephone number so that we can contact you.

The question is: What colour is the Brick Road to the Land of OZ? Competition closes on Friday 4 April 2014

commemorating the men of Prescot who gave their lives in World War One. Voters could nominate their champion through nomination cards at the Shopping Centre, on the Centre’s website and via the Prescot Online website.

Victoria Nichol, Prescot Shopping Centre’s, centre manager said: “It was brilliant to be able to reward each of these fantastic individuals for everything they have given to the community over the years. It was a great event and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting our winners”.

STREET LIGHTING WORK IN HALEWOOD WEST Knowsley Council is working with Tay Valley Lighting (TVL) to carry out a multi-million pound revamp of the borough’s street lighting.

The next phase of the project will see work starting in the Halewood West area at the beginning of May 2014.

Members of the community in the Halewood West area are invited to attend a consultation event being held on Monday 17 March 2014 at The Arncliffe Centre. Representatives from both Knowsley Council and TVL will be on-hand to answer any questions residents may have regarding the work that will be taking place. The event will start at 6.15pm

Part-time multi drop delivery drivers required for occasional work delivering magazine and newspapers Have excellent knowledge of: Liverpool, Knowsley and Sefton areas Must have own van and be contactable by landline and mobile Please leave a short message for Barbara on 0151 733 5492 including your landline number and we will contact you

16 March 2014

Kirkby man faces cigarette fine A Kirkby man has been fined £2,000 by a court after Knowsley Trading Standards seized almost 8,000 illegal cigarettes from his home.

68-year-old Stanley Joyce, of Sapphire Drive, Kirkby, pleaded guilty to two offences of possessing for supply tobacco products which did not display the prescribed health warning.

He was fined £2,000 by Liverpool and Knowsley Magistrates Court, and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £100 and costs of £100.

The crime was uncovered following a joint operation by Merseyside Police and Knowsley Council, which lead to a search of Mr Joyce’s

property in August last year, where 5,740 illegal cigarettes were recovered, along with 69 empty 200 sleeve boxes. The haul had a street value of almost £3,500.

Cllr Andy Moorhead, cabinet member for corporate and customer services, said: “Illegal tobacco is an issue we take extremely seriously, and we hope this case serves as a warning to others.

“This prosecution was made possible because of information received by the community, and I would urge anyone who has information about illegal tobacco sales to report it in confidence to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or Knowsley Trading Standards on 0151 443 4737.”

MP SUPPORTS CHARITY’S FUEL POVERTY CAMPAIGN

Become a British Cycling ride leader There’s still time to sign up to British Cycling's Ride Leaders course.

You don’t need to be a cycling expert or a competitive racer, just be confident riding in a group and have a good level of cycling fitness.

The assessed one-day course qualifies you to deliver guided bike rides for groups of beginning and intermediate level adults and accompanied children on roads and cycle paths.

You will be provided with a branded kit, a

British Cycling ride membership and payment for leading and assisting on rides.

In return, you would be expected to be flexible with your weekend availability and commit to leading guided rides on no less than four weekends during 2014.

All rides are delivered on set routes, at set times specified by British Cycling and the majority of rides take place on Sundays during the spring and summer months.

The Knowsley training course will take place on Saturday, 12 April.

George Howarth MP at the launch of the ‘Mind the Gap’ campaign

Outdoors with The Hairy Gardener Hi, my name is Peter Frances a.k.a. the Hairygardener This month the planting of veg, flowers and herbs should start for real, again we are in the hands of nature but as gardeners we have learnt to go with and not to fight nature.

One new way of growing for me that I’m trying this year is growing potatoes in bags, wait a minute you’ve grown them in bags/sacks before, yes but this season I am using only straw and chicken manure.

Once the seed potatoes have chitted, they are placed as normal in a potato growing sack and as is the way more and more straw is added as the potato haulm grows.

The potatoes getting the nutrients they require from the chicken manure, well we will see. As I say I haven’t done this before and obviously I want it to be a success and if it is remember you read it here first, I’ll keep you posted anyway.

While I was working in the garden recently I noticed an awful lot of magpies in the trees around me and I know magpies get a bad press from a lot of people but they are part of nature so I thought I’d write a bit about them.

A group of magpies is called a Tiding.

Ancient folklore associated with the magpie suggests that when two or more fly into ones life good fortune is coming soon.

We’ve all heard the rhyme associated with magpies but a few things you might not have heard are as follows. To have one perch on the roof of your house is supposed to indicate that the house will never fall down.

Magpie pairs are monogamous and stay together for the entire duration of their lives, but legend has it that when a magpie’s mate dies it summons an assembly of other magpies at which the dead bird is honoured before a new mate is selected and in Celtic lore the bird was sacred to Magog who was one of Noah’s grandsons.

Until next month happy and productive gardening

George Howarth MP for Knowsley has pledged his support for ‘Mind the Gap’, a campaign aiming to raise awareness of the help available for people affected by fuel poverty.

The campaign, run by the national charity Turn2us, is focusing on the growing gap between household incomes and the cost of energy bills, and is highlighting the support available to those who are struggling to pay their energy costs.

The campaign features six steps, using Turn2us’ free tools and information to help anyone experiencing these problems.

The steps, available at www.turn2us.org.uk/fuelpoverty include checking welfare benefits entitlement, searching for grants and schemes to help with bills, getting help to improve energy efficiency and checking energy tariffs.

Research by the charity found that a staggering 87% of people in the North West region are worried about paying their energy bills this winter.

Of those who struggled with these costs last winter, almost two-thirds (64%) suffered stress as a result and almost half (48%) were forced to cut back on food or skip meals.

George Howarth MP said: “Fuel poverty is an extremely important issue that can have a hugely damaging effect on people from all backgrounds.

“It’s vitally important that people realise that they do not have to struggle alone and that help is available to help manage energy bills.

“I’m pleased to be able to support Turn2us’ ‘Mind the Gap’ fuel poverty campaign and I encourage anyone that is worried to take action and use the six steps to manage their bills.”

Alison Taylor, Director of Turn2us said: “Turn2us has launched its winter fuel

poverty campaign with the news that more people are worried about finding the money to pay for their energy bills.

“With the cost of living steadily increasing, people feel like they have no option but to borrow money and cut back on essentials to cover costs.

“Our research shows that more needs to be done to help raise awareness of the financial support and help available to manage energy bills.

“With our ‘Mind the Gap’ campaign we have brought together a number of free Turn2us tools and information all in one place to help people in financial need maximise their income and manage their energy costs.”

For more information, please visit www.turn2us.org.uk/fuelpoverty.

Hospital rated the best in survey Hospital staff at St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust have rated their hospitals as the best in Merseyside in the National Staff Survey 2013.

The Trust achieved top results across a range of measures placing it amongst the very best in the country.

When staff were asked if they would recommend the Trust as a place to work, agree that patient care is the organisation’s top priority, and if a friend or relative needed treatment would they be happy with the standard of care provided by the hospitals, their responses resulted in the highest scores for acute hospitals in Merseyside.

Ann Marr, chief executive said, “I am delighted with the results from the staff survey. It is great to hear that staff take pride in the standard of care that is provided to our patients and rate the trust as a great place to work.”

March 2014 17

TORRY A-TEAM My name is Stephen Black and I live in Halewood, Liverpool.

On the 8th of April 2008 I endured a sixty foot fall from a rooftop, leaving me in a coma and on a life support machine.

The doctors gave me no chance of awakening from my coma or surviving without the life support machine. They told my family that it would be a ‘miracle’ if I made it through but even if I did I would not remember anyone.

Well I proved them wrong.

After four long weeks I regained consciousness, the hard work then began to start.

I was forced to learn everything which you would normally take for granted from scratch again including eating, washing, dressing and talking but still I use in a wheelchair.

For my first venture I walked 300 widths (5K) in the swimming pool and raising in the process £2,359 which was excellent as I was a one man

team, only asking people in the community to sponsor me.

This time as part of the ‘A-team’ we intend on raising a lot more and that is why we asking companies to help raise funds for this great community cause.

This will be my second ‘venture’ and it will involve me joining up with Gary See, Brian Powell and Joshua Goulding where we will be cycling 26 miles from Southport to Halewood on a four man cart which they have in holiday camp sites, as it is called ‘the Torry A- team’ dressing up as the A team.

Brian Powell as Hannibal Smith, Me as Mr T, Joshua Goulding as Face, Gary See as mad Murdock the four members of the A team include us being filmed completing the bike ride, which will then be produced with a slight twist and given to the companies who sponsor me free of charge as well as a four sided thank

you card.

Also my activities will be covered in the local Knowsley Challenge they also covered my last venture and will be mentioned in this paper.

So I am asking you to please sponsor us as the money is going to a great cause and it will benefit the people around the local area by helping them travel to the social events by using the money raised to purchase a mini bus to drive people to and from the social events also day trips plus much more.

Thank you for your time and I hope you find it in your heart to donate generously.

The Torry A- team

Charity services are top Investors in People The Thingwall Lane based Brothers of Charity Services Merseyside and Greater Manchester have been awarded gold status by Investors in People, the highest level of accreditation available from the government administered organisation.

The award of the gold status is only achieved by less 1% of over 40,000 employment organisations in the United Kingdom.

The assessor commended the Brothers of Charity Services for the quality of their staff support, ethos, vision and values.

The report said that the services delivered the highest levels of quality and expertise possible, whilst fully respecting and celebrating work colleagues in doing so.

“Gold status is a tremendous achievement and clearly illustrates the Brothers of Charity Services’ continued commitment to maintaining and increasing service quality and performance,” said the national director of Brothers of Charity Services in England, Darron Grundy.

“This creates a positive and supportive

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR MAINTENANCE AND OTHER WORKS North Huyton Communities Future Ltd is inviting Expressions of Interest to provide repair building maintenance and repair, electrical/plumbing and gardening services for 2 Community Centres and 15 occupied homes in our area.

Please visit our website www.nhcfonline.org.uk for background information to the work of our organisation and to download the supplier questionnaire and guidance.

Deadline for receipt of your submission 2pm Wednesday 9 April. environment for all our staff to continually improve and grow as people and as colleagues.

“It’s a key performance driver

for the services to achieve their ongoing strategic objectives and delivery of the Brothers of Charity Mission Statement”.

SIGN UP FOR ACTIVE KNOWSLEY CHALLENGE Once again, the 2014 Knowsley Active Challenge will take place in the beautiful surroundings of Knowsley Hall.

The event, organised by Knowsley Council’s leisure & culture service, will take place on Tuesday, 10 June. There will be a number of activities to take part in suitable for all ages and abilities.

All of the activities are wheelchair and pushchair friendly, apart from the 8 kilometre walk, which is suitable for keen walkers only.

6 pm - Free 3 Kilometre walk for all ages 6 pm - Free 8 Kilometre walk 6.15 pm - Free 2 Kilometre run for juniors in school years 3 to 11

7.15 pm - 5 Kilometre run for adults (aged 16+).

Entry costs £7.50 for an individual runner or £30 to enter as a business/work team (team of 4 which must include at least one female).

So if you fancy a gentle stroll or something a little more energetic then why not come along and take part in the activities on offer. The closing date for entries is Monday, 2 June.

For further details contact Peter Green 0151 443 5648 or e mail peter.green@knowsley.gov.uk The application form can be downloaded from the council’s website – www.knowsley.gov.uk

Free computer classes ICT Functional Skills Entry Level 3 at the Mackets Education Centre or Halewood Academy, (and now, also at local libraries) just three hours a week. Small, friendly and informal groups, courses are free, only requirement is punctuality and a willingness to learn.

Course consists of email, word processing and internet. Enrolling now.

Call Cathy on 0151 443 2052 or Doug on 07925 369899

LINSKILLS SOLICITORS Benefit Fraud Specialists You may be entitled to free advice and assistance from a Legal Advisor if you are required to attend a DWP interview under caution and could be charged with a serious criminal offence.

Do not talk yourself into a criminal charge Contact our team of specialists on

0151 236 2224 For immediate assistance

18 March 2014

Healthwatch Knowsley receives its 1000th Patient Experience!

Healthwatch Knowsley is a community led independent organisation that gives people who use Health and Social Care services an opportunity to have their say on what is provided locally.

Healthwatch is here to listen to your experiences of using health or social care services in Knowsley, whether it is good or bad.

Healthwatch Knowsley are pleased to announces that they have now reached 1000 patient experience stories, this has been achieved in just over 10 months and Healthwatch Knowsley would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has participated and shared their experience since April 2013.

The information that has been received has been both positive and negative comments about health & social care services, this helps to provide a picture of what is working well and what needs to change.

The 1000th patient experience story was received from Helen Barker, who provided feedback regarding a recent breast screening appointment in the mobile unit at St Chad’s Walk-In Centre: “I recently went for my breast check. I went to the mobile unit at Kirkby walk Helen Barker the 1000th in centre (car park). The patient experience story teller staff were excellent. They make you to feel as comfortable as possible in a most uncomfortable situation.

“The technician explained everything as she went along. The process was quick, on time and best of all the results were through in less than two weeks which was great. (Thankfully all clear).

“I’m a couple of years off 50, but was fortunate to be one of the few 47-year-olds to have the screen done. Given the amount of people I know who have breast cancer, I think this should be policy for all women, if not even at a lower age.

“Catching breast cancer early is vital to successful treatment, and if you want to do the sums I am sure it will save NHS in the long run.”

On finding out that she was the 1000th patient experience Helen had this to say: “It is important that people share their views on local health services as it is an excellent way to ensure that services in our community are improved, and that good service provision is recognised as well as the staff who work there.

“I am happy to make a real contribution to our health and social care services by sharing my experiences as a patient, and I am confident that doing this through Healthwatch Knowsley will ensure my views are taken into account.

“Most people are very busy most of the time, but spending five minutes providing some feedback by sending a quick email really does help shape services in our community.”

Your feedback helps to make a difference and change the way services work, the information that Healthwatch Knowsley receive also helps to inform the commissioners who fund health and social care services in Knowsley.

This is achieved through sharing of patient experience reports with local hospitals, Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group and other health and social care providers in Knowsley.

Healthwatch Knowsley would like to encourage community members to please keep the feedback coming, all the information that is received is important to help make a change and make sure that the community is heard.

For more information about Healthwatch Knowsley, contact the Support Team on 0151 449 3954, email: enquiries@healthwatchknowsley.co.uk or visit the website: www.healthwatchknowsley.co.uk.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON POSSIBLE NHS COMMISSIONING POLICY CHANGES IN KNOWSLEY……

NHS Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), the NHS body responsible for planning and buying health services for the people of Knowsley, is reviewing existing local commissioning policies following the issue of new national guidance.

Most of the services/treatments the CCG commissions are provided for everyone in Knowsley, for example A&E services and phlebotomy (blood taking). However, some are only clinically effective in very specific situations or for a very narrow group of patients.

The policies for these cases, used by the CCG to decide whether to buy services/treatments on a named individual (patient) basis, are under review. They have been updated to include new national guidance, and a consultation on the draft policies is now underway.

This will end at noon on 7 April 2014 and the CCG is keen for as many people as possible to provide their views before then.

The next event to explain about the review and encourage feedback is from 1 – 3 p.m. in Huyton on 11 March 2014. See the Knowsley CCG or Healthwatch websites for details, or ring 0151 449 3954.

The most important changes being considered relate to In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), which is a service that helps couples with fertility problems to have a baby; Interventional treatments for Varicose Veins; Penile Implants and Diabetes / Continuous Glucose Monitoring.

Following feedback from the public and healthcare experts, including local doctors and nurses, Knowsley CCG will decide what changes will be made at its July Governing Body meeting. It will also need to consider how

St Gregory’s reunion Anyone from Kirkby will remember St Gregory’s school for girls. It was a Catholic school run by nuns.

The school is no longer there, but that hasn't stopped a group of ladies from class of 1980 who are They are planning a very high spirited, big reunion and they want to make sure that they reach each and every girl that attended our year.

The reunion will be in held at St Mary’s social club in Kirkby on Friday 9 May 2014.

For further information contact Jacqui on 07703 518808 or email jacquihughes@fsmail.net

any changes in practice, as a result of the policy, can be paid for from its existing budget.

Dr Andy Pryce, Chair of Knowsley CCG said: “It is important for patients and local people to know that each patient will continue to be treated as an individual and will not be denied treatment on the basis of cost saving.

“At Knowsley CCG we want to ensure that we commission (buy) the most effective medical treatment for the best health of our local population.”

Doctors will, as always, assess their patient to ensure the proposed treatment is clinically effective and that their patient will benefit from receiving the treatment or procedure.”

For more information about the review see http://www.knowsleyccg.nhs.uk / or ring Freephone 0800 218 2333.

SUPPORTING THE BIG LUNCH IN KNOWSLEY

MOTORIST JAILED FOR RACIALLY ABUSING WOMAN

A motorist has been jailed for a racially abusing the girlfriend of a driver whose car he deliberately damaged during an incident in Kirkby.

Adam Gary Pengilly was sentenced to seven months in prison after pleading guilty to racially abusing the 28-year-old woman in Valley Road last April.

Pengilly's Ford C-Max had pulled out in front of a Ford Focus driven by the woman's boyfriend and when he beeped his horn, Pengilly rammed their car.

He then racially abused the woman, who was in a passenger seat, before driving off, having also committed an offence of dangerous driving during the incident in April.

An investigation by Knowsley CID's anti-hate crime unit, Sigma. led to his arrest and charge.

Pengilly, aged 27, was also banned from driving for two years following last Thursday's court hearing.

To report a hate crime in Knowsley call 0151 777 6545.

Once again, Knowsley Council is supporting The Big Lunch – a national campaign by the Eden Project to encourage people across the country to have lunch together on Sunday, 1 June 2014.

This annual event encourages local neighbourhoods and communities to organise their own events, with the Big Lunch providing advice and support through their website – www.thebiglunch.com or telephone The Big Lunch on 0845 850 8181. This includes decorations, games and recipe ideas to share with your neighbours.

The aim of the campaign is to improve community spirit and community cohesion. Whilst the Big Lunch is promoting the concept, the onus is on communities to take ownership of the events – by generating support locally and organising the events.

If you are interested in arranging a street party, the council will support and advise you on the process.

For advice and support, call 0151 443 3073.

Over 3.65 million people nationally took part in last year’s event and hopefully this year’s Big Lunch will attract even more people.

March 2014 19

COUNCIL CRACKDOWN ON ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES

KIRKBY HIGH SCHOOL YEAR 11 PREP FOR SUCCESS DAY Year 11 pupils from Kirkby High School took part in a ‘Prep for Success Day’ at Liverpool John Moores University, Redmonds Building recently.

The themes of the day were resilience, hard work and organisation.

They were given tips and techniques on revision methods, how to recognise the signs of stress and coping strategies as they approach their GCSE exams.

They were also given a resource pack which included fine liners, record cards and exam and revision information.

The day was a complete success and our Year 11’s feel much more prepared for their final few months in Kirkby High School knowing what it is they need to do to succeed.

Knowsley Council has now issued more than 4,000 fixed penalty notices in a tough crackdown on environmental crimes.

Enforcement teams have been patrolling the borough issuing £75 fines to people who are caught littering or failing to clean up after their dogs.

The council’s enforcement officers have been supported over the last 15 months by officers from Kingdom Security to patrol the borough and keep it clean.

Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for corporate and customer services, Cllr Andy Moorhead, said: “Issuing this number of fixed penalty notices demonstrates our commitment to keeping the borough clean and tidy for

the benefit of our residents.

“We have taken a tough stance on people who show no consideration for others when they drop litter or fail to clean up after their dogs.

“We have received a great deal of support from residents in this crackdown because we know that littering and dog fouling had been a real concern to them.

We have also been contacted by other local authorities who want to follow our lead on this issue.

“I believe we are starting to see positive changes in people’s behaviour. That, in turn, will help us to keep the borough cleaner and reduce the £1.9m we currently spend cleaning our streets each year.”

BMX Championships in Knowsley There’s still time to register for the North Region BMX Championships, which takes place on Sunday 30 March at Knowsley Velodrome & BMX Park.

Over 250 riders are expected to take part in this year’s event, with riders competing from the age of 6 years and over.

Riders can pre-register at www.britishcycling.com or they can also register on the day. The day’s action will commence at 9am with registration and practice sessions.

Councillor Eddie Connor, cabinet member for leisure, community and culture said: “Knowsley has a wealth of cycling facilities and cycling programmes for all levels and abilities.

I’m delighted that we are able to host this regional championship here in the borough.

Whether you are taking part or a spectator, I hope it inspires you to come along and use our world-class BMX and Velodrome facilities.”

To find out more or take part, visit www.activeknowsley.com or call the Get Active Team on 0151 443 2200.

20 March 2014

TRIAL TO DE-ILLUMINATE SECTION OF M62 A section of the M62 in Knowsley will be de-illuminated for a 12 month trial

by Knowsley Council.

The trial will began on Friday 8 March between junctions 5 and 6 of the motorway. The slip roads onto and off the motorway will remain lit as will the gantry signage.

Renewed road markings, reflective studs, and better reflective traffic signs have been installed ahead of the start of the trial.

The impact of the trial will be assessed through analysis of energy efficiencies, financial savings, and survey data over the 12 months.

Any feedback from residents and road users will also be taken into consideration.

THE HOME FRONT The Prescot Festival will be holding a fundraising event entitled: The Home Front on Friday 14 March, 7.00-8.30pm at St Paul’s Church, Bryer Road, Prescot.

L35 5DN Tickets £6 including hot pot supper (bring your own drinks - alcohol permitted). Ticket reservations via prescotfestival@gmail.com or 07762 607 618 The evening will include wartime sketches and singing, back by popular demand, with new songs and stories, commemorating both World Wars Proceeds are in aid of the 10th Annual Prescot Festival.

Kirkby C of E Primary School shortlisted in national Ready Berry Cook competition Kirkby C of E Primary School is a regional finalist in a national cooking competition, spearheaded by CBBC presenter Stefan Gates, to find the country’s most creative sweet or savoury berry recipe that tastes great and is nutritionally rich.

Beating hundreds of other entries, as one of eight regional finalists Kirkby C of E Primary School wins a blender.

The school’s unique recipe for ‘Strawberries and cheese on toast’ was made with low-fat cream cheese, strawberries and brioche.

The Let’s Get Cooking club held a tasting session and took samples round the school, involving over 50 people in total.

The Children’s Food Trust and Asda will cook up the recipes and crown one school the national winner.

Elaine Parr, who led the cookery club, said: “We tried to think outside the box when designing our recipe, and eventually created a dish with a twist which was both delicious and healthy.

“We are so happy to be regional winners” The main aim of the Ready Berry Cook Challenge is to teach kids about the health benefits of eating berries and inspire them to cook from

scratch.

Laurence Olins, Chairman of British Summer Fruits, said: “The quality of entries we’ve received has been superb.

“It’s been a real challenge choosing finalists from such talented schools, as the huge

variety and creativity in submissions, from traditional dishes with a modern twist to innovative new recipes, has been second to none.”

Berries of all kinds are a valuable source of vital nutrients.

They help ward off infections,

aid healing and are excellent for our digestion, nerves, skin and blood cells.

“They are also ‘berry’ versatile and can be used in a wide range of sweet and savory dishes to give us our daily delicious health boost.”

Talented chefs: Rebecca Weller, Sarah Jones and Ella Good

Health & Fitness - with Emma Armstrong of Zest Wellness

Fats – the good, the bad and ugly 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 Thursday: 6-7pm Yoga - an open yoga class for all ages and abilities Everyone welcome - just come along in comfortable clothing

Huyton Gateway 115 Rupert Road 0151 489 4616 Rebound is a social enterprise, not for profit organization

er £3 p s cla s

When trying to live a healthy lifestyle you are constantly being given conflicting information on what you should or shouldn’t be eating.

Fat is no exception. Is all fat bad? Will all fat make you fat? Unfortunately whatever fat you eat, large amounts of fat = fat.

However, if you learn to spot the bad kinds and eat the good kinds in the right amounts, fats can lead to lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, glossy hair and healthy skin.

Good - Unsaturated - Check your labels!

You want to be eating unsaturated fats.

These are found in oily fish, nuts and seeds and sunflower and olive oils. These are the fats that actually lower cholesterol and should be included two to three times a week in your diet.

Bad - Saturates! Found in meats, cheese, cream, butter, chocolate, cakes and so on.

The government recommends no more than 30 grams of saturated fats a day for men and 20 grams per day for women.

These fats have the opposite effect of unsaturated fats as they raise your cholesterol levels increasing your risk of

heart disease.

Ugly – Trans-Fats. Avoid these.

These fats are mainly artificially made through a process called hydrogenation which is used in food processing to harden oils. This method is often used to give products a longer shelf life. They are commonly found in margarine, biscuits, cakes and some takeaways.

Trans-fats are seen to be so detrimental to health that many doctors are demanding a ban on them. Our bodies do not require this type of fat in any quantity so remember to check you labels and choose your treats carefully!

Getting the most from your fat • Always check labels. It’s not just about calories!

• Use olive oil for cooking instead of butter or lard.

• Avoid solid fats as these are usually the bad, saturated fats.

• Snack on nuts and seeds instead of chocolate and cakes.

• Eat oily fish instead of meat a couple of times a week.

• Choose lean cuts of meat and cut off any visible fat.

• Remember all fats have 9 calories per gram compared to the 4 per gram of protein or carbohydrates so don’t go overboard on any type of fat!

• Everything in moderation is key!

If you have any questions or need any hep or information you contact me at: emma@zestwellness.co.uk

March 2014 21

Monday Huyton The Old School House, St John’s Road 6.30pm Kathryn 07865 014437 Huyton St Aidans Club Longview Lane 5.30pm & 7.30pm Michelle 07940 181515 Tuesday West Derby The Crown Inn, Leyfield Road 9.00am, 11.00am, 4.30pm & 6.30pm Marji 07739 167048 Kirkby Centre 63 Old Hall Lane, Next To St Chads 9.30am & 11.00am Eileen 548 0658 Prescot St James Church Hall St Helens Road (Near The Wellington Pub) 9.30am, 11.30am 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lynn 07739 167051 Huyton St Aidan’s Club, Longview Lane, Huyton 9.30am & 11.30am Michelle 07940 181515

Wednesday Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church) Pilch Lane 9.30am; 4.00pm & 6.00pm Julie 449 1074 Huyton The Royal British Legion Archway Road 5.30pm Ro 07709 956191 Dovecot St Luke’s Community Centre Princess Drive 7.30pm Michelle 07940 181515 Thursday Whiston George Howard Centre, Lickers Lane, 5.00pm & 6.30pm Kathryn 07865 014437 Stockbridge Village Craigs Community Centre, Little Moss Hey 6.00pm Ro 07709 956191 Huyton The Royal British Legion Archway Road 1.00pm & 6.00pm Joanne 254 1298

Kirkby Holy Angels Social Club Sidney Powell Avenue 4pm & 6pm Sue 07546 148204 Dovecot Dovecot Labour Club Finch Lane 7.00pm Susanne 07785 459297 Friday Dovecot St Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church), Pilch Lane 9.30am Julie 449 1074 Saturday Huyton The Huycap Centre, Rupert Road 8.00am & 10.00am Joanne 254 1298 West Derby The Crown Inn Leyfield Road, West Derby 8.30am & 10.30am Marji 07739 167048 Prescot Parish Church Meeting Rooms (next to Deans House), Vicarage Place 8.00am & 9.30am Lynn 07739 167051

22 March 2014

CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT ST LAURENCE’S

Last summer St Laurence’s commissioned a professional artist to work with their children over a number of months to produce some outstanding artwork for their new First Floor Keystage 2 corridor.

The work is now complete and fully installed.

Headteacher, Mr Paul Cronin, said: “It looks absolutely amazing! The aims of our extensive display are to hopefully inspire our children to read an enjoy books and also to always do their best. We encourage all of our parents and visitors to come and view the magnificent work.”

NATIONAL QUALITY MARK St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School are extremely pleased that they once again achieved the National Quality Mark for Schools.

The award is extremely hard to pass and involves a full day inspection and scrutiny of evidence from 10 aspects of school life.

Headteacher, Mr Paul Cronin, said: “The inspector was extremely complimentary about our school and children.

They should all be very proud of this award. Our children were outstanding on the day.”

Harvey’s Army are united in their mission to find him Harvey is a three-year-old, black/grey miniature poodle who went missing from Rainhill on November 23, 2013.

He was wearing a red harness at the time. Since he disappeared a group known as ‘Harvey’s Army’ are united in their mission to find him.

People are systematically combing the areas around where Harvey has been sighted, sometimes going out at all hours at the drop of a hat, leaflets are being distributed, posters have been designed and displayed.

Harvey even has his own Facebook page ‘Find Harvey’ with nearly 3,000 followers. Celebrities are even tweeting about him.

This is not just another missing dog story. The way in which people are working together is remarkable.

They are giving time and energy to their mission with great honesty, courtesy and out of the goodness of

Have you seen Harvey? their hearts.

Harvey’s owners, Jude and Shaun, are heartbroken, they live in Sheffield and were visiting friends in Rainhill.

They left Harvey at their friends’ home to go out for the evening, but he is very rarely left and became anxious.

They think he ran to find them but does not know the area and is extremely frightened and avoids humans.

Jude and Shaun have spent their Christmas and New Year sleeping in a camper van in the Rainhill area, and are sometimes out until the early hours trying to find him.

Initial sightings have extended from

the Rainhill Stoops roundabout to Rainhill village near takeaways and parks, Stoney Lane, Mill Lane and Old Lane estates and fields, around the Holt and the field near there.

Harvey, it is believed, has also been sighted at Stadt Moers, Huyton, St Helens, Prescot and most recently in and around Whiston, St Luke’s School and Hospital.

There is a reward for his safe return. Please keep your eyes open, we know a lot of people don’t use social networking sights and somebody may have even kindly have taken him in.

He is greatly loved and missed by his owners. People are asked if they could join Harvey’s Facebook page and if he is sighted then please use the contact details on this page.

People have all fallen in love with Harvey and theywant him back home where he belongs.

March 2014 23

SENIOR FIRE OFFICER READS TO RECEPTION CLASS A senior fire officer read passages from two books to school children this week as part of World Book Day, which took place on March 6.

Area manager Dave Mottram from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, read to a reception class at St Columba’s Catholic Primary School in Hillside Road, Huyton.

The event was organised by deputy headteacher Mrs Veronica Oprey.

He read the book “Aliens With Underpants” by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort to the youngsters and also met and spoke to pupils in other classes during his visit to the school.

Dave said: “Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service does all sorts of work to engage with young people across Merseyside to help people stay safe from fire.

“I was delighted to visit and meet the school children today in my first visit for World Book Day. The young people were really interested and asked a lot of questions about what it was like to be a firefighter during my tour of the school.”

Miss Margaret Evans, acting headteacher at St Columba’s, said: “We

The Liverpool Harmony Chorus, who are celebrating 40 years of entertaining are looking for new members. They are running a FREE 6 week come and sing course, its starts on 20 March, finishing on 1 May, starting at 8.00pm and finishing at 10.00pm. The venue is Lee Park Golf Club, Childwall Valley Road, Gateacre L27 3YA. For further details contact Jack on 0151 427 6594 mobile 07763558362 or John on 077663111731 or email john.bailey75@btinternet.com

GARDEN WASTE COLLECTIONS Your garden waste (blue bin) collection service has started again from the weeks beginning 24th February and 3rd March.

Remember you can recycle shredded paper and pet bedding in your blue bin. For more information please contact the Environmental Helpline on 0151 443 2400. are delighted and extremely grateful to the area manager for taking time out of his very busy day to come and read to the pupils here. Reading is very important to us here at St Columba’s.

“It is heart-warming and an exciting

experience for the children to see such a successful and hard-working officer enjoying reading in the way that Mr Mottram does.

“He has clearly re-ignited the spark of pupils’ enthusiasm for reading.”

KIRKBY TOWN CENTRE PLANS APPROVED Plans have been approved to completely transform the appearance of Kirkby Town Centre, as part of the multimillion pound regeneration programme.

Knowsley Council’s Planning Committee has tonight (Thursday 27 February) approved Tesco’s application to radically improve the appearance, landscaping and layout of the town centre.

In a further sign of Tesco’s commitment to Kirkby, the town centre will benefit from: • A brand new large civic square next to the council’s new £5m Kirkby Centre; • New seating and lighting throughout the town centre; • Attractive new paving, trees and shrubbery on St Chad’s Parade; • Seating steps, trees and planting beds in Newtown Gardens; • A new semi-lawned area close to the council’s new £2.5m market; and • Two further unique pieces of public art.

The approved plans will

ON SONG!

create four key spaces in the town centre – civic square, St Chad’s Parade, Newtown Gardens and the market square, all linked to bring the town centre together.

The two new pieces of public art are: • A wishing tree. An eyecatching six metre-high iron cast of one of the oldest trees in Knowsley, which will provide an attractive meeting place in Newtown Gardens.

• The thrones. Three large thrones in the civic square, each with giant wings, encouraging people’s imagination to ‘take flight’.

These pieces of public art complement the spectacular ‘Edward’s Elephant’, which received planning approval in July 2013.

Although it was not required to do so, the council carried out a consultation on the application and received no formal objections to the plans.

Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, Cllr Dave

GRAND NATIONAL EVENING New Hutte Torrington Drive Community Association is hosting a St Patrick’s themed social evening on Friday 4 April from 6 – 9pm at New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, Knowsley L26 1TT The evening is open to anyone with a disability and their support.

The evening will include a disco, raffle, the opportunity to socialise with friend, and chance to place your bets on the winning horse.

During the evening a selection of hot food, confectionary, and cold/hot drinks will be available to purchase from the Green Room Community Café based on site.

Entry fee is £2 and raffle tickets will be on sale throughout the evening.

To avoid over capacity, please contact Brian Powell to book your place, on 07759 409 215

CONCERT EVENING AT RAINHILL The six metre-high Wishing tree

Lonergan, said: “The approval of these plans by the Planning Committee is another significant step forward and further evidence of Tesco’s commitment to working with us to transform Kirkby Town Centre for the benefit of our residents.

“These plans will really improve the appearance and layout of the town centre and enhance the experience of visiting Kirkby.

“I’m thrilled to see the

fantastic progress being made in the various aspects of the regeneration programme. Next week, we are opening the council’s brand new £5m Kirkby Centre to residents. In the same week, we will see the first residents move into the St Kevin’s Drive housing development.

“In addition, the finishing touches are being put to the superb new Kirkby Market and I can’t wait to see it open for business.”

Rainhill Village Hall are hosting a concert at the Hall on Saturday 16 March at 7.30pm.

The evening includes The Garrick Society, Hi-Notes Choir, The Nearly Tuneful Co, Rainhill Musical Theatre Co and the WI Drama group.

Tickets are £5.50 for Adults and £3 for under 12s, and are available by ringing Maria on 0151 426 2649.

Rainhill Village Hall is a charity, mainly run by volunteers, and serves the Rainhill community. Many groups meet there every week and during these harsh economic times the hall has to raise much needed funds.

So show your support and enjoy an evening of entertainment.

24 March 2014

Property

PLUS DANE TO UNVEIL AFFORDABLE QUARRY BROOK HOMES A show home will be launched at Plus Dane’s £6 million Quarry Brook development, as 10 properties are available through a shared ownership scheme.

During the 15 March launch, taking place from 10am-2pm, potential buyers will be able to view the property on display, which has been designed by Vivo Interiors, and a financial advisor will also be on hand.

Reservations will be taken on the day for the new homes, which include modern kitchens, front and rear gardens, driveways and lots of storage space.

A total of 66 properties have been built at Quarry Brook, including two and three-bedroom houses and eight twobedroom bungalow, and the development has been designed to mirror Plus Dane’s 2012 award-winning

Quarryside Drive scheme.

The development contributes to the regeneration of the Northwood area and, through shared ownership, offers first

time buyers a step up onto the property ladder.

For more information contact 0151 708 4696.

Developer donates life-saving equipment Whiston Hospital is further investing in much-needed equipment for its special care baby unit (SCBU) thanks to a £500 donation from home-builder Taylor Wimpey.

The hospital, which neighbours the home-builders Speakman Gardens development in Prescot, is now able to purchase three brand-new, state-of-the-art Rad 5v probes which are crucial in the day-to-day running of the unit.

Sally Duce, directorate manager of paediatrics at the hospital, said: “The help we have received from Taylor Wimpey has been fantastic.

We are now able to buy equipment to help with the implementation of a new form of screening of all babies born at the trust – which equates to approximately 3,800 a year.

“The screening assists with the early detection of a very rare condition allowing earlier intervention and treatment as appropriate so I would like to thank everyone at Taylor Wimpey for their kind generosity as donations like this truly do save lives.”

Discussing their decision to help the hospital, Christine Aitken, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey North West describes how they were delighted to assist.

She said: “Whiston hospital is an instrumental part of the community where our Speakman Gardens development is now taking shape; and the work they do in the SCBU truly is amazing so we were happy to help.

“On behalf of the children, their families and everyone at the trust I would like to send our heartfelt thanks to Taylor Wimpey for this donation.”

Pictured left to right are: Sally Duce, directorate manager of paediatrics, Caroline Deveney, special care baby unit manager and Christine Aitken, sales and marketing director at Taylor Wimpey North West

March 2014 25

NEW HOME SHOW OFFERS FREE ADVICE FOR KNOWSLEY BUYERS Are you looking to move to an affordable new home in 2014? Merseyside’s forthcoming New Home Show will offer all the help and advice you need under one roof.

Taking place at the BT Convention Centre on Liverpool’s waterfront on 29 March, the free event will feature more than 40 exhibitors from across the region’s property industry.

Developers in the Knowsley area including Oriel, Gleeson and the New Home Show’s main sponsor, Redrow Homes, will be among the experts offering details on schemes such as shared ownership, the government-backed Help to Buy initiative and homes for over 55s.

NEW YEAR HOUSEBUILDING FIGURES CONTINUE TO RISE The number of new homes registered in the UK in January show a 14% increase compared to the same time in 2013, new figures from NHBC reveal.

The year’s first statistics continue the upward trend seen throughout 2013, which resulted in the highest number of new home registrations since the economic downturn in 2007.

In total 11,489 new homes were registered (8,312 private sector; 3,177 public sector) in January, an increase on the 10,112 last January.

As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new

homes in the UK, NHBC’s registration statistics provide significant insight on the country’s new homes market.

Commenting on the latest statistics NHBC’s commercial director Richard Tamayo said: “Our figures show that the industry enjoyed a strong start to 2014 by maintaining the momentum from the previous year.

“Both private and public sectors reported growth on the same month in 2013 and we look forward to hopefully seeing this trend continue throughout the year to help meet the demand for new homes.”

City to work with small-builders to revitalise vacant land Liverpool City Council is launching a new pilot project to bring vacant land across the city back into use for small-scale housing projects.

The city’s property and asset management team has drawn up an initial list of 16 council-owned sites, some of which have been vacant for decades. This land - which includes Croxteth, will now be marketed to individuals or groups who may be interested in smallbuild housing developments.

The plans aim to bring some of the city’s vacant land back into meaningful use and stimulate growth in areas where little interest has been shown in housing development for many years. Most of the sites previously contained housing which was demolished.

Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said: “We are taking every possible step to drive forward housing growth in this city. A big part of this is making the most of our assets, so we can support the delivery of new homes in areas which need it most.

“At the same time, we want to tackle the problem of vacant, derelict land which blights our communities.

“We have a number of sites which are suitable for small schemes.

Making them available to builders or individuals who want to build their own home makes eminent sense, as part of our wider work to provide affordable housing in every part of our city and attract people back into our communities.”

Financial and legal advice will also be available during the show, which is being held from 10am4pm.

Ahead of the show, which attracted more than 1,000 visitors last year, an Oriel spokesperson says: “We’re really excited to be exhibiting at the New Homes Show. It will be the first time Oriel has attended the event and we are looking forward to sharing our innovative home financing solutions for first time buyers.”

Tickets to the event, supported by HomesHub, are free. To download yours now, or for further information about this year’s event, simply log on to the website at www.newhomeshow.co.uk

26 March 2014

March 2014 27

Enchanted Wood Carvings in Stockbridge Village

David Parry presents Stockbridge Village Community groups with £2700 cheque.

STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE SUPERMARKET SUPPORT COMMUNITY Local supermarket Parry’s has been busy this month awarding several community groups with a share of £2700.

The supermarket selects a number of items for sale each month and from every item sold, a donation from the sale is paid into the community grant fund.

This means that the more people spend in the store, the more the fund grows for the community grants and the wider benefits to the entire community.

David Parry, the store owner said: “The community grants are all about making a difference locally, and Parrys supermarket is proud to be actively helping support the Stockbridge Village Community”.

Some of the community groups that have been helped by the fund include: • The Famous Grapes for new team football kits.

• Arts and Culture Factory to support the recently opened recording studio on the estate.

• S.C.I.P to support the Saturday morning children’s Safari Club arts and craft sessions.

• Friends of Custley Hey to provide fishing trips for young people in the area.

90% of the supermarkets workforce live in Stockbridge Village, and are happy to work for a company that puts the community at the heart of its business.

First lambs at Acorn Farm Despite the chill in the air, spring has most definitely arrived at Acorn Farm in Kirkby as they have just welcomed their first lambs of the season.

The four lambs (a set of triplets and a single) were born in the early hours of 5th March, marking the beginning of the busiest event in the farming calendar: lambing season.

With most of the farm’s ewes expecting, many more lambs will be arriving soon and there will be lots for visitors to the farm to see over the school Easter holidays.

Farm Manager Fiona Smith said: “Spring is such a lovely time to visit the farm and lambing season is always very eventful!

“It really makes me realise how lucky I am to work in a place like Acorn when I see lots of little lambs gambolling in the fields!”

And it’s not just the farm’s sheep that are getting into the swing of spring; the farm is home to a wide variety of animals, including chicks that have been hatched by local schools through Acorn’s incubator programme.

Acorn Farm’s garden centre will also be preparing for their plant sales season and will be stocked up on plants, tubs and hanging baskets in time for the Easter holidays.

If you go down to Little Woods today life. It has been a fantastic project for the you’re in for a big surprise, as there are children to get involved with and brings a new two new additions to the woodland walk. lease of life to the woodland walk.”

Two new tree sculptures have been created The Stockbridge Rangers are welcoming thanks to the Stockbridge Junior Rangers. new members so if you would like to The intricate tree carvings were designed volunteer your services or if you have a child by children from the Stockbridge Rangers aged 7 or over who would like to join the and St Alberts RC Primary School. group, call George Jewell on 0151 489 The children were asked to come up with 4505. some ideas for the sculptures which resulted in some fantastic drawings of squirrels, insects and even a badger.

The Stockbridge Junior Rangers help look after Little Woods and over recent years have been tidying, cutting back weeds, planting and looking after the pond. The woods are now a fantastic place for families and walkers to visit and enjoy a nature stroll, taking in some wonderful sights along the way.

In 2013 the group applied for funding from the National Lottery to create tree sculptures from some of the trees in the woods, and were thrilled when they discovered that their application had been accepted.

George Jewell, Stockbridge Junior Rangers Leader said: “We were delighted that our bid was successful as it helped us pay for the fantastic tree sculptors who really St Alberts school children enjoy their ideas brought have brought the children’s ideas to to life in Little Woods

28 March 2014

Business

GREEN LIGHT FOR LIVERPOOL CITY REGION CABINET Liverpool City Region Cabinet has welcomed the green light from Government to establish the Combined Authority for the City Region.

The Government is supporting the proposal by starting the legislative process by laying Orders in Parliament.

This would enable the Combined Authority to come into effect on 1 April 2014.

This follows on from a meeting with the City Region’s MPs in Parliament recently.

The Combined Authority was recommended following a review of the strategic governance in the City Region last year, which Government subsequently consulted upon.

The creation of a Combined Authority will enable the City Region to be better placed to support businesses to grow and create jobs through more efficient and effective decision making.

It will encourage residents to set up their own businesses, existing businesses to grow and attract new businesses into the area.

The Combined Authority will not result in the merger or takeover of existing local authority functions, nor would it be a super council.

The Combined Authority will strategically lead work on economic development, transport and employment and skills in the City Region to support businesses to grow and create jobs.

This more integrated approach to lead to better outcomes delivered more efficiently.

It will provide clear leadership and greater transparency, while creating a legal entity which would be in a position

Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council

to attract funding and devolved powers from Government.

Rt Hon George Howarth, MP for Knowsley, said: “This is an opportunity that must be seized if we are to secure jobs for our residents and growth for our businesses.

“The Combined Authority for the Liverpool City Region will provide the platform for councils and businesses to work together for the good of the City Region as a whole.”

Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “Knowsley businesses and residents will benefit from more improved services and additional funding for economic development, regeneration and transport as a result of the Combined Authority.

“This City Region works well together, and the Combined Authority allows us to take this to the next level.”

Merseyside business leader backs crackdown on Health and Safety myths A Merseyside business leader is backing a new initiative designed to dispel myths about health and safety for small firms.

Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, is encouraging employers to take advantage of free online resources after a new survey revealed the lengths some firms mistakenly go to trying to comply with health and safety.

One business completed a risk assessment for using a tape measure and another introduced written guidelines for walking up stairs.

These bizarre and unnecessary actions were uncovered by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which is encouraging small and medium-sized employers to use its free online tools and guidance, specifically designed to help them get their risk management right.

The H&S ABC provides simple information to help small firms save time, effort and money by identifying the things they really do and don’t need to do.

Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, said: “Good health and safety is good for business, and despite great efforts over the years there are still numerous ‘myths and legends’ surrounding what businesses need to know.

“Many of our SMEs don’t have the financial resources to employ specialists to manage specific elements of their business, for example human resources or health and safety.

“We often find that rather than delegating the task to others, ‘owner-managers’ take on the responsibility for health and safety.

“In turn, having someone with multiple responsibilities can present unique challenges to the business and the health and safety agenda.

“It’s vital that SMEs have confidence in managing risk and accessing good-quality advice. I am therefore delighted that HSE is launching the H&S ABC, which is an excellent starting point.”

HSE’s survey shows how myths about health and safety could cause unnecessary confusion and flagged some of the most absurd things employers had been advised to do.

Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce

One in five people (22 per cent) surveyed believed they weren’t capable of managing health and safety themselves and needed to hire a specialist consultant.

Eleven percent believed that a qualified electrician must test electrical appliances, such as kettles and toasters, every year – another persistent myth.

Nearly a third of small businesses surveyed classed themselves as ‘hopeful-have-a-go’s’ when it came to health and safety - aware they have to take some action but unsure where to start or if what they are doing is correct.

HSE’s small business lead Kate Haire said: “Health and safety is all about taking reasonable steps to manage serious risks of ill-health and injury in the workplace. If something sounds completely unreasonable, more often than not it will be totally unnecessary too.

“What’s great about H&S ABC is that it contains all the information smaller businesses need to know to manage health and safety sensibly and comply with the law. It highlights the real risks in a workplace and how to put reasonable precautions in place.

“We hope employers will realise health and safety does not have to be complicated or cost lots of money.”

Whether a business employs one or two people, or is expanding to multiple locations, the free online guidance will help even complete beginners get health and safety right.

Visit www.hse.gov.uk/abc to get started with sensible health and safety.

VIVARK KEEPS LIVERPOOL WARM WITH KMBC CONTRACT WIN Liverpool based facilities management company and social enterprise, Vivark, has secured Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council’s (KMBC’s) gas and winter boiler contract.

Vivark, part of the First Ark Group, will be undertaking boiler and heating repairs to Knowsley home owners and tenants of private landlords who have been identified as vulnerable under KMBC’s Warm Homes Healthy People programme.

The programme, which aims to tackle the issues associated with severe winter weather by providing a free boiler and heating repairs service, has found poor health and unnecessary winter deaths are almost three times higher within residents living in the coldest 25% of housing.

This is the second consecutive year that the First

Ark Group, which includes Vivark, has been awarded the £100,000 contract, allowing the company to build upon its commitment as a social enterprise and add real value to the local communities within which it operates. During its work in the 2012/2013 season, the Vivark team completed almost 150 heating projects in Knowsley, improving living conditions for many local residents and their families.

Tony Cahill, executive director of business and

service development at Vivark, said: “Vivark is extremely proud to be able to build upon the fantastic work that was achieved last year.

“Adding value to the community is vital to Vivark and this project in particular helps improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people living in the region.

“Securing this contract for another year demonstrates KMBC’s confidence in Vivark to professionally respond to customers’ needs and proves the team has the technical expertise to carry out the work to the highest possible standard.”

Vivark’s output as part of last year’s gas and boiler contract included 22 full boiler replacements and 15 full system installations. 76% of those who benefited from the scheme were aged over 70.

March 2014 29

COLLEGE REVEALS PLANS FOR REDEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

Students in St Helens will soon benefit from a £5m redevelopment of the Technology Centre Campus.

St Helens College has revealed plans to update and upgrade the campus, situated on Waterside in Pocket Nook which hosts course subjects including Engineering, Construction and Animal Care.

This investment is further to the £58 million pound redevelopment which took place at the College’s town centre campus recently.

The redevelopment will see an array of exciting improvements to the site, benefiting both staff and students, including; the creation of high quality, flexible learning spaces, a new library and the remodelling of existing workshops and classrooms.

The new campus will also benefit from a new dining area and internal courtyards, as well as accessible outdoor spaces, up to date reception and remodelled entrance piazza. Work is due to commence this month with an estimated completion date of September 2015. It is anticipated that there will be minimal disruption to current students.

Of the total estimated cost only £900,000 will come from Skills Funding Agency with the rest being met by the College.

Principal of the College, Dr Jette Burford, said: “This project comes at a very exciting time for the College. As we strive for excellence, this renovation at the Technology Centre site means all of our facilities will now boast state of the art equipment and learning resources.

“The main aim is to create modern, practical study spaces which will inspire and motivate students, helping them to maximise their learning experience.”

INTERVIEW SUCCESS

The students at SEA were highly recommended for future success by local business partners who took part in the extremely successful ‘Mock Interview Day’ held at the centre in February.

The day ensures the students have an opportunity to gain experience of writing a CV, having a formal interview and receiving feedback from experienced professionals from the world of work.

The event is organised by Miss Bev Smith (Senior Learning Mentor) and representatives from Merseyside Police, Jarvis Training, St Helens College, Riverside College, KCC, Carmel College, Barclaycard, Knowsley Works, Paul Smith and Kev Fay all took part in the rigorous procedures.

The employees described the Students as having very confident, well presented, polite, mature and highly employable. In return the students expressed their gratitude stating the event had boosted their confidence through a real life experience and gave them a good insight into what a real job interview would be like in the future.

30 March 2014

Challenge Classified Advertising Telephone: 0151 709 7567 • Email: andy@merseymirror.com • CHARITY British Heart Foundation Houses Cleared Free of Charge Telephone 0151-523 3341 07949 362966

PUBLIC NOTICE Goods Vehicle Operatorʼs Licence JMD Logistics Ltd of Hornby Dock, Liverpool L20 1EF is applying for a licence to use Saturn Business Park, School Lane, Knowsley L34 9GJ as an operating centre for 10 goods vehicles and 10 trailers.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioners office.

Goods Vehicle Operatorʼs Licence JMD (Haulage Contractors) Ltd of Hornby Dock, Liverpool L20 1EF is applying for a licence to use Saturn Business Park, School Lane, Knowsley L34 9GJ as an operating centre for 46 goods vehicles and 60 trailers.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioners office.

Fax: 0151 707 1678

COMPUTER REPAIRS

PRAYER

DECORATING SERVICES

A Prayer to the Holy Spirit

PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES

Holy Spirit, you who made me see everything & showed me the way to reach my ideal. You who gave me the Divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory.

Amen. Thank you for your love toward me and my loved ones.

Persons must pray the prayer three consecutive days without asking your favour. After the third day, wish will be granted no matter how difficult it may be. Then promise to publish this dialogue as soon as the favour is Granted. AM

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CHIROPIDY

March 2014 31

HAUNTED MERSEYSIDE WITH TOM SLEMEN

Haunts of the Drinker People often ask me if there are any places they can visit that have ghosts, but most of the haunted locations I know of are on private property, with the exception of buildings open to the public at certain times, such as Croxteth Hall, Knowsley Hall and Speke Hall, but there are a few pubs in our vicinity that are allegedly haunted.

I am told that the New Johnny Todd pub in Kirkby even has a ghost who is occasionally seen, and what’s unusual about this ghost is that the entity has also been encountered in the Fantail (just up the road from the New Johnny Todd).

This ghost is of a man in old-fashioned black clothes who fixes his gaze on the unfortunate drinker, and then looks him up and down before taking out a cloth tape measure to ‘size him up’.

The legend goes that the measured person dies not long afterwards, and is duly measured for a coffin before burial or cremation. The sinister man in black is thought to be the ghost of a local undertaker who died in the 1930s.

I have a few peculiar supernatural stories concerning the New Johnny Todd I’ll regale you with in future editions of this newspaper.

If you want to go in search of spirits of the non-alcoholic kind whilst indulging in a cordial drink and a tasty bite to eat, then I heartily recommend a haunted inn which has a long history of ghostly goings-on, and this is the Punchbowl Hotel up in Sefton, situated next door to the ancient (and haunted) Sefton Church.

I have been in this pub, which dates back to the 1850s – possibly even earlier – on many occasions for a drink and the occasional Sunday roast, and the building definitely has an ‘Olde World atmosphere’ about it which harks back to Pickwickian times when travellers from far and wide arrived by coach and horses.

In 1971, the barmaid and landlord’s daughter of the Punchbowl saw the ghost of a man twice within the space of a fortnight, and on both occasions the pub was closed.

The apparition was said to be a man in dark blue who had the air of a sailor about him, but there are other ghosts that haunt or call into the pub as well, and one of them is a cheerful Regency figure, resplendent in a top hat, monocle and walking cane, who struts with a purposeful stride, and many who have seen him say he looks just like the famous character found on the label of a Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky bottle, except that instead of the red hunting waistcoat Johnnie wears, our ghost wears a dark blue one, and his breeches are also of a bluish colour.

For many years, people wondered who this ghost in blue was, so I undertook research into the matter and found a very credible contender – Sir Nicholas Blundell.

Back in the middle of the 17th century, Sir Nicholas Blundell, Lord of the Manor of Little Crosby, passed away at Ince Hall, and his dying words to his faithful steward had

been: “Let me be interred at Lydiate Abbey and not Sefton Church.”

The steward honoured his deceased master’s last wish, even though the rest of the Blundell family arranged for Sir Nicholas to be buried in the graveyard of Sefton Church.

The steward removed the corpse of Sir Nicholas from the coffin on the night before the funeral and propped him up in a closet, and then he fetched a hundred-weight of stones and put them in the coffin, which was then screwed shut.

Then came an even more risky piece of business – the transportation of the dead body to Lydiate Abbey. For this, the servant hired an expert rider from Aintree who was bribed with money and ale to keep his mouth shut.

The body of Sir Nicholas was dressed in a dark blue waistcoat and blue breeches and black boots, and a monocle was jammed into his eye and a hat shoved onto his head.

The body was then strapped to the rider so it looked as if he had a man clinging to him on horseback, and that rider rode like the Devil himself through the night to Lydiate Abbey.

The apparition was said to be a man in dark blue who had the air of a sailor about him He thundered past Sefton Church as the clock struck the hour of twelve, and suddenly, the luminous ghost of Sir Nicholas Blundell appeared in the road ahead of the rider and scared the horse as it stood there with a horrible angry expression on its face as it lifted its protesting arms into the air.

The rider regained control of the horse, dug his spurs hard into the steed and rode around the terrifying ghost, reaching Lydiate Abbey in a dreadful state, for he said the ghost had followed him most of the way.

The Catholic priest at the Abbey, who had been sworn to secrecy, carried out a brief requiem and the body was laid in the ground by three burly gravediggers.

On the following day, the coffin of stones was solemnly laid in the graveyard of Sefton Church, where people wept, unaware of the grotesque charade which had taken place under their very noses.

Not long afterwards, the ghost of Sir Nicholas was seen walking past the Punchbowl Inn, dressed in his blue attire, and some think he had changed his mind about his intended resting place, and as a result now walks in a tormented state, back and forth between Sefton Church and the ruins of Lydiate Abbey (which belong, incidentally, along with the land it stands upon, to an unknown descendant of the Ireland family).

Surely then, it is Sir Nicholas Blundell who haunts the Punchbowl Hotel?

Many years ago I talked to a gravedigger from Sefton Church who told me how, one late afternoon, while he was digging a grave, he found himself showered by something which giggled as it hurled the excavated soil and clay back at him.

He ran into the Punchbowl, and the thing followed him in there and caused havoc in the bar.

Perhaps this same malevolent force was at large in 1985 when a couple in their thirties from Huyton – named Barry Evanston and Ann Stanley – visited the pub one evening, and openly scoffed at the tales of a poltergeist that was currently doing the rounds in the area.

The violent ghost had hammered on the sides of buses and cars in the neighbourhood, and had even thrown a man off his bicycle, breaking his arm.

Barry Evanston laid a bet that he’d give anyone present a hundred quid if they could prove such a ghost was real, and he shouted out: “If you can hear me, show yourself!” and he and his girlfriend Ann laughed when no response came. Then an old man came into the Punchbowl and asked: “Has anyone in here got a red Mini parked outside?”

Barry Evanston nodded to the oldster and asked why. The old man said: “Something’s tossing it about,” and everyone in the pub went to the window – including Barry and Ann. The lights of Barry’s Mini were on, and the car was moving back and forth – even though a steering lock was on. It was as if a giant was throwing the vehicle about as if it were a child’s Dinky Car. As Barry and Ann went outside the pub to challenge the suspected jokers, the Mini stood on end with its headlights pointing skywards, and then it crashed to the ground, and something was heard to hammer upon it, leaving massive dents in the body work.

The couple tried to take their car back to Huyton but the Mini kept veering off the road, as if the steering column had been damaged. Barry and Ann never visited the Punchbowl again.

• Visit www.ghostwalks.org if you'd like to go on a Haunted Liverpool ghost walk.

32 March 2014

Sport If you have any sports news contact the Sports Desk on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com

289 9999

Taekwondo clubs are on a high

SCOTT WINS KARTING CHAMPIONSHIP Scott Mitchell, aged 15, from Halewood, is the 2013 Manchester and Buxton Kart Club (MBKC) Junior Rotax Champion.

The Championship was run over 10 rounds from February to November, Scott achieved this in eight rounds at the Three Sisters circuit in Wigan.

The team (TMR Development) has won the championship three times in the past two years in the senior class last year and minimax and junior max class this year all on the PCR frame. The team is run by Chris Norris and Scott has driven for TMR since he started his career.

Scott in action Scott started his karting career at eight years old moving from cadets to minimax where he won the Dragon Master trophy in 2011, competed in the National Championships in 2012, the MBKC championship is the climax of his karting career.

This season Scott will be competing in the junior saloon car championship (JSCC), racing a Citroen Saxo for his new team Orex Competition. The season runs from April to September at seven tracks including Oulton Park and Brands Hatch.

The team is based in Antrobus, Cheshire and have the luxury of a full race simulator on site and race at Le Mans. Scott will be mentored by Ray Grimes who works for Ferrari as an instructor/demonstrator for their road cars.

Scott is looking forward to further success in 2014 and would welcome any support/sponsorship. For full calendar and further details of the season ahead go to www.scottmitchellracing.com

Halewood and Whiston Taekwondo Clubs were on a high after their recent results at the 2014 GTI English Championships.

The clubs competed as part of the North West Spirit Taekwondo Team at the tournament in Cheltenham on February 9.

15 team members took part, and they brought home 17 trophies and medals - four gold, five silver and eight bronze.

The day started well for the team, with eight-year-old Philip Zhu securing gold in the boys blue belt patterns event, as well as bronze in boys blue belt sparring. His younger brother Matthew (6), competing in his first tae kwon-do tournament, fought very well to achieve a silver medal in the peewee sparring division.

Owen Cooper (11) fought well in the boys green belt division, overcoming a knee injury to take gold in point-stop sparring. The green belt girls also did well, with Olivia Connolly-Dixon (9) and Annie Rice-Gray (9) each winning a bronze in point-stop sparring. Olivia also achieved a silver medal in patterns.

Nine-year-old Callum Edwards kicked his way to a gold medal with an impressive win in the boys red belt sparring category.

Siblings Matthew Austin (6) and Heather Austin (11) were competing for the first time, and were delighted to come away from the competition with a bronze medal each in the yellow belt sparring divisions. Team-mate Jack Harrison (6) also achieved a bronze medal in the peewee sparring event.

Ethan Calland (15) achieved double success in the boys black belt sparring division, taking a silver in point-stop sparring and a bronze in continuous sparring. His dad (and Whiston Club coach) Eddie Calland (45) added to the team’s medal haul with a silver in the black belt men’s sparring category.

Julie Rice-Gray (36) was competing in the blue belt division for the first time and did a great job, coming away with a bronze medal in continuous sparring.

Stef Davies (31) finished off the day’s achievements with more medals in the ladies black belt sparring division, taking a silver medal in point-stop sparring and a gold in continuous sparring.

This was the first tournament of the year for the North West Spirit team, who hope to continue their success at the next tournament, the PUMA World Championships in March.

Junior team members - Olivia, Owen, Jack and Callum - with their winning medals and certificates

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.

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