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Issue 317 October 2013
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“The Northern Hub is an important investment programme for the North of England”
NEWS RENT ARREARS IN MERSEYSIDE SPIRAL Page 3 WALKING IN WATER PART TWO Page 4 NEW PARTNERSHIP LAUNCHED AT JAGUAR LAND ROVER Page 5 YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SHOP IN PRESCOT Page 12
SPORT EFC STAR MICHELLE HINNIGAN Page 31 WIGGINS ON SAFARI AT THE TOUR OF BRITAIN Page 32 Keep up to date with THE CHALLENGE on our new website
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NETWORK RAIL LAUNCHES PLANS IMPROVING RAIL LINK AT HUYTON AND ROBY
Network Rail has recently held a three-day consultation giving members of the public the opportunity to comment on plans to construct a new section of railway track near Huyton railway station. The rail infrastructure company is investing in a key package of work in the area to improve capacity on the railway line between Manchester and Liverpool via Newton-le-Willows, which will increase the number of ■ Huyton and Roby to be part of the Northern Hub tracks running through Huyton and Roby from two to four, allowing additional “The plans at Huyton and fast inter-city trains to run on the line without being held up behind local Roby to increase capacity on stopping services and freight trains. the line between Liverpool The work is being delivered as part of and Manchester are a key the Northern Hub – a programme of investment to deliver faster, more frequent part of the Hub” services across the North of England and will be built on Network Rail’s land, making stimulate economic growth by better use of an existing redundant track bed. connecting towns and cities. Huyton and Roby stations will also be The public consultation focused on improved as part of wider work in the area. plans for a small section (240m) of the Dyan Crowther, route managing director new fourth track, which needs be at Network Rail, said: “The Northern Hub is constructed on land not owned by an important investment programme for Network Rail, by the Huyton telephone the North of England. It will create space exchange and Huyton bus station. for up to 700 more trains every day and The work will need to extend into the help provide over £4bn worth of wider edges of both sites and so consent economic benefits for the region. through a Transport and Works Act Order “The plans at Huyton and Roby to from the Secretary of State for Transport increase capacity on the line between will be required to build this section of Liverpool and Manchester are a key part of track. the Hub and we looked forward to meeting The new tracks will be constructed stakeholders to discuss the scheme.” between Pilch Lane and Huyton Junction. More information is available to view on All of the third track, and most of the fourth www.networkrail.co.uk/huytonroby (apart from the section requiring consent)
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Dyan, commented: “If the 240m section of new track is approved, work will complete by the end of 2017. “This work at Huyton is an integral component of the Northern Hub; a programme of works to upgrade the rail network in the North and deliver faster, more frequent services. “This is a critical investment for the region, which secured funding in July 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by 2019”.“ Network Rail stated that the proposed work will deliver the following benefits: • Capacity: additional fast trains travelling between Manchester and Liverpool (via Newton-le-Willows) will be able to pass local stopping services. • Frequency: the fourth track will enable more frequent services to travel between Liverpool and Preston, without impacting on existing freight paths and local services. • Reliability: the additional line provides an alternative route for trains during maintenance closures.
2 October 2013
COUNCILLORS CALL FOR PARTY TO DITCH THE ‘BEDROOM TAX’
■ Left to right: Nan Linda Rose, holding Darcie, Maternity Matron Val Blakemore and Mum Laura Rose-Paterson holding Reuben and Fraser.
New hospital delivers first set of triplets! The first set of triplets to be born at the new Whiston Hospital have arrived. Brothers Fraser, Reuben and their sister Darcie are the first set of triplets to be born at Whiston since the new hospital opened its doors to patients in April 2010. Conceived naturally, the triplets were born at 33 weeks and six days by caesarean section to mum Laura Rose-Paterson and Dad Peter Paterson. With Darcie weighing 4lb 13 3/4oz, Fraser weighing 4lb 8 1/4oz and Reuben weighing 4lb 14oz, the triplets spent two weeks at the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit until they were big enough to go home with their parents. Mum, Laura works at the hospital in the Informatics Department and Nan, Linda Rose also worked at the trust before recently retiring to help look after the new-born
triplets. Laura said: “We’re thrilled that the babies have made their own little piece of history at the hospital. We’re so pleased that they were delivered safely and would like to thank all of the staff in Maternity services for their continued support.” Tennyson Idama, Consultant Obstetrician, who delivered the babies said: “It’s a great privilege to be able to deliver the first triplets to be born at the new Whiston Hospital. They were all very healthy weights for a triplet birth and it’s wonderful that Laura, Darcie, Fraser and Reuben are doing so well.” Since the new hospital opened, to date there have been over 12,400 births at the Maternity Unit, 179 of those have been twin births and now little Fraser, Reuben and Darcie have taken their place in history.
Councillors in Knowsley are calling on the Labour Party to promise to ditch the ‘Bedroom Tax’ if it returns to Government in 2015. Knowsley Council is opposed to the policy and has previously called for the Coalition Government to abandon it, describing it as “flawed and unworkable”. The borough’s councillors have now unanimously agreed a motion to call upon Labour to announce it will repeal the Bedroom Tax if it wins the next General Election. Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for finance and IT, Cllr Norman Keats, said: “We warned the Coalition Government that this policy is fundamentally flawed and, five months after its introduction, it is clear that we were right. “The Bedroom Tax is a disastrous policy which is destroying communities.
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It is not reducing the overall Benefit bill and it is not freeing up accommodation for households which are over-crowded. “In Knowsley, as in many other areas, there is simply not the availability of smaller housing to allow residents to downsize. “For example, 62% of our households have one or two people in them, but only 28% of Knowsley properties have two bedrooms or fewer. “The Coalition Government is refusing to listen. The failings of this policy have been pointed out by everyone from children’s charities and homeless organisations to the United Nations. Yet still they do nothing. “That is why Knowsley Council is calling for the Labour Party to stand up for the vulnerable people whose lives are being torn apart by this policy and promise to axe the Bedroom Tax.”
of local soldiers who served in the ‘Great War’, or more recent conflicts? Then a new exhibition, called Local Heroes, Distant Voices, which is being created for Knowsley wants to hear from you. The exhibition will be spread across three locations – Huyton, Prescot and Kirkby – during 2014, commemorating 100 years since the beginning of World War One. It aims to include the stories of as many local soldiers as possible, but to do this it needs your help! Local Heroes, Distant Voices will
put on display photographs, documents, medals and the personal belongings of local soldiers whose lives were affected and shaped by what was then referred to as “The Great War”. It will tell the personal stories of Knowsley servicemen and individuals affected by war from the late 19th Century onward, covering military conflicts up to almost present day. Local Heroes, Distant Voices is the chance to bring the distant voices of your ancestors back for all to hear. If you have a relative, friend or
neighbour that served in World War One or any other military conflict and would like to share their story as a means of celebrating their life and shedding light on their experience of combat, please get in touch with Tina Ball, Vicky Griffiths or Susan Mackell on 0151 443 5617, or email tina.ball@knowsley.g ov.uk. Contributions from retired and active servicemen and women are also welcome. The deadline for contacting us with your stories is Thursday 31 October 2013.
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October 2013 3
Bedroom Tax in Merseyside six months on
RENT ARREARS IN MERSEYSIDE SPIRAL Rent arrears have increased by £2.2m in Merseyside, a survey of social landlords has found. Merseyside Housing Associations – working together to assess the impact of Government welfare reforms – have released new figures on the six month anniversary of the introduction of the benefit changes. They show spiralling rent arrears – as vulnerable tenants struggle to make up the shortfall as a result of benefit cuts – as well as sharp increases in the number of empty properties and the time it takes to re-let homes when they become vacant. According to the latest data, arrears in Merseyside have increased by £2.2m when compared to the same period in 2012. This loss of income could help build more than 125 houses in the region, which in turn would; create 280 jobs or have an economic impact of over £10.5m, according to the National Housing Federation. Ian Thomson, executive director of asset management at First Ark Group which includes KHT said: “The impact of the bedroom tax or under occupancy charge is having a major impact on our tenants and communities with over 60% of those affected finding themselves in arrears for the first time. “The reduction in housing benefit payments, along with paying council tax for the first time and the squeeze on incomes through rising prices and falling wages is pushing many tenants into increasing indebtedness. “This is placing vulnerable tenants under major pressure and while there are not enough smaller homes available for them to downsize is trapping them in cycle of debt and desperation. “As a result we have seen a 30% increase in void properties and in particular a 130% increase in three bed houses becoming void, with a resultant increase in void times, costs and rental loss. “We would urge the government to review this policy as a matter of urgency as not only is it making the most vulnerable within our communities suffer severe hardship but is and will cost the public purse more.” At the same time ‘void’ properties have increased by 29% to 1,956 and the average time it takes to re-let a property when it becomes empty has increased from 28 to 38 days. The result is a loss of rent to social landlords of £616,662 per month compared to £397,224 last year. Daniel Klemm, North West external affairs manager at the National Housing Federation, added: “These figures from Merseyside are yet more evidence to show that the bedroom tax is pushing vulnerable families into debt.
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■ Ian Thomson, executive director of asset management at First Ark Group
“People can’t even move to smaller homes to avoid the Bedroom Tax because there aren’t enough smaller properties. “Housing associations are working flatout to help their tenants cope with the changes, but they can’t make onebedroom houses appear out of thin air. “The Bedroom Tax is an unfair, illconceived policy that is hurting Britain’s poorest families and it must be repealed.” On April 1 2013, the coalition Government began cutting the housing benefit of people living in social housing who it believed had one or more unused rooms and gave them a choice: find the extra money to pay the rent, or move to a smaller property, irrespective of whether demand issues that exist in areas like the South East were applicable in locations like Merseyside. A group of social landlords on Merseyside began campaigning against the Government’s Bedroom Tax. The housing providers believe the Bedroom Tax is unfair and does not achieve what it sets out to. They conducted the survey of housing associations across the Merseyside area both those involved in the campaign and others - to gain a picture of the ongoing impact of the benefit changes.
PRESCRIPTION WARNING Merseyside Police is urging members of the public to exercise caution following the loss of a quantity of prescription drugs. The owner of the drugs believes they were lost on the bus number 227 Arriva bus, as it travelled from Huyton to Kirkby on Friday, 4 October. The drugs, described as Clozaril tablets - 28, 100mg tablets Taking medication that is not prescribed for you can be harmful or even prove fatal. If any one finds the medication please hand it in at a local police station or pharmacy or contact Merseyside Police on 101.
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4 October 2013
WALKING IN WATER Part 2
In the last issue of The Challenge we reported on Stephen Black and his amazing journey after an acident left him in a coma and on a life support machine. Stephen’s family were told that it would be a ‘miracle’ if he made it through but even if he did he would not remember them. After four weeks he regained consciousness, and through hard work went on to prove the doctors wrong. Although Stephen still uses a wheelchair he was determined to raise funds for the ‘Tuesday Group’ which is run by volunteers who have helped Stephen through his journey. On October 1, Stephen set out to walk 5k, 300 widths of Halewood swimming pool, this is his report: First of all I have got to say a big thank you to the management and all the staff in the leisure centre for your help, without your help it would not of been possible. I arrived at the leisure centre at 9.15, the management and the staff had been busy putting papers saying what I was about to
undertake all over the building. They also put out an earn filled with hot water, so that my mum and her friend could make every one who come to show me their support a cup of tea or coffee as well as a selection of biscuits. As I was getting changed I was thinking to myself ‘Come on Ste you can do it’. It was time to show the people who had come to watch and support me what I was made of. Having been given a second chance of life now knowing the way I had gone first was the wrong way, this time I was doing it the RIGHT way. It was simple (to help as many people as possible) flu or no flu. I entered the pool with my t-shirt so as not to reveal my tattoo too soon, once walking my t-shirt came off, revealing my tattoo at the same time my Godson (Joshua) who was helping me by being my support worker for the day, handed out papers telling people the reasons why I got my tattoo and what it meant. This made it a lot clearer to the people reading the story. Looking at all the people who had
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come to support me, I had goose bumps all over my body, I completely forgot about the flu. The first hundred widths were easy but my feet kept on slipping as I had not been in the water for three weeks and I had taken the innersoles out of my pool shoes - they went out of shape, so my sister (Sue) travelled all the way to Speke for a new pair which worked perfectly so I could continue. The next 100 widths flew by with me not slipping any more, finally the last hundred widths. I got told that it would be the last one hundred widths that would take it out of me and oh how it did, with the flu starting to raise its ugly head. I will not lie, it was tough, but I am no quitter. The last ten widths people entered the
pool area to cheer me on (I don’t think I would of completed the task if not for those people). The last width was harder than the previous 299 the flu had really kicked in as well as having a few mini seizures along the way. It has been two days of rest for me as my body is sore. I now cannot rest as the progress of collecting sponsors begins and hopefully in time of handing the large cheque to the treasurer of the ‘Tuesday Club’. A big thank you for coming to show your support and for all the other people who could not get time off work but still sponsored me, it means a great deal and last but not forgetting all the sponsors my mum went out to get for the cause Joyceee babe you are a star thank you.
‘The One’ Tattoo First of all I want to say a big thank you for sponsoring me and coming to support me it means a lot. I have got to say a huge thank you to Gary Wilson (or as I like to call him ‘The Artist’) who did my tattoo completely free of charge. I can highly recommend his tattoo parlour Oakeys on Mackets Lane, Halewood. Reason 1 I got ‘The One’ tattoo, shaped as a cross, to represent how God has saved me and protected me from death. If you had known me from before my ‘accident’ you will know that I came very, very close to death but it’s true what they say ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’. With me being stronger than I have ever been, I have come a long way since my accident with a lot more to come, so city of Liverpool watch out! I am very thankful to God for everything he has done for me, rescuing me from that life support machine and awakening me from my coma, it was boring. I believe that God has kept me alive for a reason and I intend to act upon his mercy with this walk in water just one act with more acts to follow. I plan to do this by helping others less fortunate than I who cannot always help themselves. I think that by doing this I am acting upon God’s message to me and I am paying back what I owe to Him. This tattoo is a representation and a reminder of how much God has helped me and how much I want to do to repay Him by helping others. People have tried and will try to stop me or slow me down but as I have
proved here today when I have the ‘bit between my teeth’ I am hard to stop. When I say ‘THE ONE’ I don’t mean I’m better than anyone else in anyway, shape or form I’m just like the rest of you guys plain and simple, a human. With this ‘sponsored walk in water’ being the first step on my journey with many goals still to complete. Reason 2 I got the ‘The One’ tattoo shaped as a cross was simple it was to show you guys I can do anything I set my mind to do because I am ‘THE ONE’, with this letter I think it has made you guys reading it more confused. I was going to get a tattoo saying ‘Fearless’ because I don’t fear anything at all. I am also very clever and can achieve anything I set myself, today is just a little warm up exercise and I can go on to bigger challenges. People are going to say ‘Stephen is big headed’ but I disagree; I am just a very confident man with the world at my feet. There is no right/wrong answer here as they are both right answers. But if you must choose between reasons 1 or 2, like in life the decision is yours and yours alone. Now watch me go, then you to will believe in me, like I believe in myself! Thank you for reading
October 2013 5
JAGUAR LAND ROVER LAUNCHES NEW SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP Jaguar Land Rover has launched a new school partnership with All Saints Catholic High School in Kirkby. Over the next three year years, Jaguar Land Rover’s Halewood plant will work with All Saints to deliver a range of activities aimed at improving academic achievements, employability, governance and sustainability. The projects, including staff shadowing, work experience placements, lean immersion and real-life engineering challenges, will be supported by employees from across the plant as part of the plant's successful volunteering programme. The partnership is part of Business Class, a Government-endorsed programme run by Business in the Community, which partners companies with local secondary schools to create long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. Halewood Operations is also donating a special Freelander 2 vehicle to the school which engineering students will use as a learning aid. Richard Else, operations director at Halewood, said: “Jaguar Land Rover believes that the success of our global business – and the UK economy - lies in engineering and innovation. “It is vital that we attract the next generation of engineers and technologists to help our technology and engineering-led business achieve ambitious plans for global growth. “Halewood Operations is delighted to commence a Business Class partnership with All Saints Catholic High School which we hope will increase students’ employability, world of work awareness, engagement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects and encourage more young people to consider engineering careers. “Through our partnership, we want to nurture future talent at the school and encourage more young people to join our business as apprentices and graduates
to increase our talent pool and help us accomplish our ambitious plans.” Pete Bradley, the headteacher of All Saints Catholic High School, sees the partnership as extremely significant. He said: “This is a great opportunity for us to show students that a career in engineering can be extremely rewarding. “JLR is synonymous worldwide with excellence in design and manufacturing and we could not have a better exemplar for our students. “There is a national shortage of technically qualified people and a renewed focus on teaching STEM subjects. By working closely with JLR for the next three years I believe we can reinforce the message that modern engineering is a great career option for boys and girls alike.” Halewood Operations is the first company to join the new Knowsley Business Class Cluster, which aims to engage five secondary school and business partnerships in the borough by the end of 2013.
Warning over tax scam Knowsley residents are warned to be on their guard against bogus officials offering refunds on their Council Tax. The scam has seen residents telephoned at home by someone claiming to be from Knowsley Council. The resident is asked to make an appointment with them to review their Council Tax banding with a view to obtaining a refund. The council can confirm that none of its officers are contacting residents about overpayment of Council Tax. Residents who have received bogus calls can contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 040506.
6 October 2013
New groups for Alzheimer Society Alzheimer’s Society Knowsley Office are running a new Reading Together Support Group in Huyton the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. They meet in The Meeting Room Huston Library, Civic Way Huyton, L36 9GD. The group is open to people living with Dementia and their carers in the Knowsley area. They offer a non-judgemental, friendly and welcoming group which will encourage a real sense of community and friendship. There is no charge to attend and refreshments will be provided. Please ring 0151 426 4433 for further information. The Society’s Knowsley Office are also running a new music and wellbeing group at the Court Hey Methodist Church, Roby Road, Bowring Park, L14 3NU. The group is open to people living with Dementia and their carers. The group offers stimulant qualities and cognitive connection through music and song. There is no charge to attend and refreshments will be provided. Please ring 0151 426 4433 for further information.
NEW HOSPITAL LINK SERVICE ANNOUNCED Merseytravel has launched a new weekday service linking Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Stockbridge Village, Prescot and Whiston hospital. Running every hour during the daytime, Route 111 will run from Alder Hey Hospital at Eaton Road, via Princess Drive, Stockbridge Lane, Knowsley Lane, to Prescot Bus station, continuing along Warrington Road and Dragon Lane to Whiston Hospital, from where it will loop back along Kingsway and Manchester Road to Prescot Bus station. The service will then return to Alder Hey Hospital via its initial route. This new Monday to Friday daytime service has been introduced by Merseytravel, with funding from the Department for Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) in response to requests from residents and community leaders for a better link between Stockbridge Village and the hospitals. Councillor Liam Robinson, chair of Merseytravel said: “This new service will provide a more direct link for people travelling to the two hospitals, making it easier for them to attend appointments, visit patients and also for those who work at them. “The LSTF funding has given us the opportunity to provide this service for a limited time, after which if it proves to be a viable proposition, we hope that it will be taken on as a permanent route by a commercial operator.” For timetable information visit www.merseytravel.gov.uk or for a printed copy of a timetable please visit one of our Travel Centres or call the Brochure Hotline on 0151 330 1066 or by email request to publicity@merseytravel.gov.uk
PAUL TAKES ON THE GREAT NORTH RUN
A member of staff from Liverpool Community Health’s Liverpool Out of Hospital Service has recently completed the BUPA Great North Run to raise money for charity. Paul Reigler completed the Great North Run to raise money for Cancer Research UK. 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. The Great North Run first launched in 1981 with 12,000 runners taking part, the event has now grown to a record 55,000 accepted entrants from over 100,000 applicants in 2012. The Great North Run has touched lives across the UK and around the world - last year’s event saw runners from over 40 different countries taking part. The course is 13.1 miles long and starts in Newcastle and finishes in the coastal town of South Sheilds. It is the second largest half marathon run in the world with around 55,000 runners taking part. Paul from Roby is a Physiotherapist for LCH said “Within my role at LCH, I often see the devastating effects cancer has on my patients and their families. However, over the past couple of years I've experienced friends suffering the ill effects of cancer too. So this year I thought I'd do my bit to help Cancer Research to raise funds to support the development of new screening testing and treatments.” Paul continues “My planned fund raising target was £400 but I’m delighted to have raised £440 so far and would
love to raise more, it’s such a worthwhile cause. Please show your support by giving generously to Cancer Research UK.” Despite the strong cold wind, drizzle and then pouring rain and storm conditions, Paul completed the race in 1hour 40 minutes which was his target time. If you would like to show your support for Paul please visit the online donations page at the following link www.justgiving.com/paulreigler
Players wanted St Annes Rovers Girls FC who celebrate their 10th Anniversary this year, run teams from U8’s to U16’s. Because of age restrictions urgently require new players for their U14’s and U16’s. They play in the L.C.F.A Girls league on a Saturday morning. Please contact Terri Fitzpatrick, 07733 204016.
Police appeal Merseyside Police is appealing for the public’s help in tracing a 21-year-old man from Dovecot who is wanted in connection with a racially aggravated assault. The incident occurred in Halewood in March this year. Kieran Simpson, 21, is described as being white, 5ft 5ins tall of a slim build with short ginger hair and blue eyes. Officers searching for Simpson would urge him or anyone who knows of his whereabouts to call Merseyside Police on 0151 777 6545 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55 111.
October 2013 7
8 October 2013
College Life… Knowsley Community College celebrates outstanding success of students Radio City presenter Simon Ross hosted the second annual Knowsley Community College Shine Awards that recognises the outstanding achievements of students. Held in Knowsley Borough’s Huyton Suites, Steve Logan, Principal of the College used the event to enthuse how immensely proud hew was of all of the students. “The Shine Awards recognise award winners but we wanted to congratulate everybody who has successfully completed courses, achieved qualifications and progressed to university, successful careers or to higher levels of study. Our second Awards evening was a great platform at which to do this.” There were a number of high profile guests in attendance including Gee Walker who presented the Anthony Walker Award for Law to Denise Thomo. She praised Denise for being a ‘star’ and urged her to ‘follow her dreams, travel the world and be the best she can be’. Carl Geraghty picked up Sports Student of the Year Award and is now working as Liverpool Football club’s
massage practitioner. “I can’t thank Knowsley Community College enough for their support and where it has got me,” he said. Matthew Nesbitt picked up Staff member of the Year to rapturous applause for his great work in inspiring students to challenge themselves to achieve their goals. Knowsley Community College has a history of strong relationships in working with local employers in the Merseyside region and Liz Mercer from the Five Boroughs NHS Partnership won the Employer of the Year award for her work with the College in on-the-job training. Other notable winners on the night included Art student Sarah Keogh who is now studying Fine Art at Central St Martin’s College, Engineering student Stephen Davies who is now employed as an Engineer at Jaguar Landrover, Construction apprentice Jordan May and A Level student Zak Hartley-Beard who is now studying English at Goldsmith’s College London. Knowsley Community College has seen an unprecedented improvement in
■ Liz Mercer, Employer of the Year with Steve Logan, Principal of the College
the last 14 months and has been judged by Ofsted as one of the most rapidly improving colleges in the country and is now the highest graded college in Merseyside under the new inspection guidance. Steve Logan took another opportunity on the night to thanks everybody for the College’s turnaround in fortune.
■ Denise Thomo winner of the Anthony Walker Award for Law presented by Gee Walker
He said: “It’s solely the determination and commitment of our Governors, managers, teachers and support staff that has driven us to where we are currently. Awards nights such as these allow us to share in the triumph of everyone involved whilst acknowledging our determination to keep on improving to even greater heights.”
TRUST HONOURS COMMUNITY HEROES Knowsley’s unsung heroes have been honoured at an awards ceremony celebrating those who work tirelessly to make a difference in their area. Everyone from teenage volunteers and youth theatre groups to sporting organisations were recognised at the Knowsley Housing Trust Community Achievement Awards on Wednesday, September 25. Tony Cavanagh, 16, of Whiston, won the Young Person of the Year Award, sponsored by Orchard, and the Overall Contribution to Knowsley award – chosen from all the award winners and sponsored by Travis Perkins. Not only does Tony give up his spare time to help out at an after school club, he also does lots of fundraising for charity and last Christmas he used money he received as presents to buy hats, scarves, socks and gloves for homeless people. “I’m made up to have won, I can’t really believe it,” said Tony.
“I just love doing it, I feel so rewarded by helping other people and I enjoy doing all the fundraising work.” The Special Recognition Award, sponsored by Lyjon, went to Pat Canning who is a member of several boards at KHT, sits on three KHT focus groups and is also heavily involved with his church, St Agnes in Huyton. “I like to help people and I like to give something back,” said Pat. “I’m delighted to have received this award and am grateful as it validates the importance of giving back to your community.” Awards were also given to the Resident of the Year, sponsored by Innovation Central, for each township in Knowsley. Pat Mairs won the award for Halewood, Lisa Wilkinson won the award for Kirkby and Chris Simpson won the award for Prescot and Whiston. The KHT Residents Association of the Year Award, sponsored by Strutec, was given to the Four Seasons, based in
Whiston. Best Kept Garden of the Year, sponsored by Ecopod Heating Systems, was won by Edward and Lorraine Jones from Kirkby. The Little Woods of Stockbridge won the Green Living Champion/Project of the Year, sponsored by Arcus, and the Altru Knowsley Youth Theatres won the Creative Achievement of the Year, sponsored by Weightmans. Sport Achievement of the Year, sponsored by Knowsley Community College, went to Prescot Swimming Club and the Knowsley Community Organisation of the Year, sponsored by Fusion21, was won by Knowsley Foodbank. The Entrepreneur of the Year award, sponsored by Vivark, went to Royal Heart Design, a social enterprise of Year 9 pupils from All Saints Centre for Learning. The ceremony was held at the Huyton Suites in Huyton and included
entertainment from singer Jessica Finneran, 17, from Huyton, who won the trust’s first ever Knowsley Rising Star competition and actress and singer Pauline Daniels, who has appeared in Brookside and Bread. Pauline said: “It was very humbling to see so many people caring for their community and looking after others and it was great to see Knowsley Housing Trust going out of their way to recognise that.” Chief Executive of Knowsley Housing Trust Bob Taylor said: “This is the seventh year we have held these awards and every time the standard of entries gets higher. “There are a lot of people doing fantastic work in their communities to make a positive difference in a whole range of ways. “These unsung heroes often do this work selflessly without expecting anything in return but we are delighted to have been able to thank them for their efforts.”
October 2013 9
Halloween events in Knowsley
Firework displays in Knowsley When it comes to spectacular firework displays, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Knowsley this October and November! In Huyton, a family funfair and firework display takes place at King George V Playing Fields on Wednesday 30 October at 7.30pm. On Friday 1 November, you can watch the firework display at Bryer Road Community Centre, Prescot. As well as fireworks, there will be street entertainment and a fun fair to entertain all the family. Organised by local charity Family Voices, the fun lasts from 3-9pm and is completely free. Meanwhile, Prescot Rotary Club are hosting a firework display on Saturday 2 November, at Whittaker’s Garden Centre, Liverpool Road, Prescot, from 5.30-9pm. Entrance is by ticket only. These go on sale at Whittaker’s garden centre from October 21, and are priced at £5 for adults, £4 for children. Family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) are available for £14. While in Kirkby, a public firework display will take place on Tuesday 5 November at Simonswood Playing Fields in Northwood. The event is organised by Quicksilver Productions and is free of charge. Fireworks start at 7pm. Simonswood Lane and Moss Lane will be closed to traffic during the evening to allow people to safely gather and join in the fun. Please note that on-street parking in the area is limited.
From spooky fun to skating, there’s plenty to entertain you in Knowsley this Halloween! Knowsley’s Rangers have plenty of Halloween fun lined up for young people, including Halloween Horrors – a spooky afternoon of family fun making ghouls, bats and witches. These take place from 1-3pm at the following venues and dates: • Wednesday 23 October – Jubilee Park Pavilion, Dinas Lane, Huyton • Friday 25 October – McGoldrick Park, Rydal Road, Huyton • Saturday 26 October – Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton • Sunday 27 October – Ten Acre Pits, Acacia Avenue, Huyton For more information on these events, contact the Huyton Ranger on 443 3114. There’s more creepy and creative fun at Halloween Crafts at Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood, on Thursday 24 October, from 1-3pm. Take part in the spooky Halloween quiz and make ghouls, witches, and bats in an art workshop. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information about this event, call the Ranger on 488 6151. Skating fans will love the ice rink which is coming to New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, on Wednesday 30 October from 6-9pm. Skating is free and suitable for all ages, although younger children should be accompanied by an adult. There will also be a free disco and refreshments on sale at The Green Room cafe during the event. Then, if you dare, you can take on the Scary Halloween Trail at Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane, Whiston, on the big day itself (Thursday 31 October). The fun starts at 5.30pm until 7pm. Follow the trail and see if you can brave the ghosts! Answer questions along the way to claim a prize. For more information, contact the Ranger on 489 1239. Young people aged 11-19 are invited down to the OurPlace youth facility on Longview Drive, Huyton where a whole host of spooky events and activities are planned. These include Halloween arts, costume making, face painting, apple bobbing, pumpkin carving, making pumpkin soup and a spooky treasure hunt. On Thursday 31 October there will be a Halloween party and disco. Call 0151 443 5323 for more information. In Halewood, families are invited to take an eerie lantern walk to the Hale O Ween Spooktacular on Thursday 31 October at the Arncliffe Centre, Arncliffe Road. Meet at the Halewood Ranger Centre on Okell Drive where you can collect your Jack o’Lantern and be guided on a lantern lit walk through the woods. At the Arncliffe Centre, the ‘Wonderful Witches’ will be waiting with a warming bowl of Scouse. Then there’ll be Halloween themed fun and games, and prizes for the best Halloween costumes. The event is completely free. For more information, contact Mike on 07731764111. And you’ll find details of lots of other activities for young people in Knowsley listed on http://youthactivitiesinknowsley.co.uk.
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10 October 2013
Out & About OCTOBER FRIDAY 11 OCTOBER KIRKBY YOUTH ZONE 18:30 – 21:15 Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 9PP. Cost £1. Youth Zone activities for ages 11 to 19 years old. Qualified football / Boxing / Hair and Beauty / DJ / Dance instructors and coaches will deliver sessions every Friday evening. Contact: Joe Fogg 07810054146 / Joe.fogg@knowsley.gov.uk for further details. FRIDAY 11 OCTOBER AFTER SCHOOL CLUB 16:00 – 18:30 Vee’s Place, Zion Independent Methodist Church Hall, 74 Kemble Street, Prescot, L34 5SH. After School Club for 1016yrs 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 FRIDAY 11 OCTOBER STARDUST MORRIS DANCERS 18:00 – 20:00 St Andrew's Church Tower Hill, Highfield, Northwood, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 1XP. Morris Dancing group. We practise on Tuesdays 7-9pm at St Mary's Catholic Club, Kennelwood Avenue, Northwood, Kirkby, L33 6UF. On Friday’s 6-8pm at St Andrew's Church Tower Hill, Highfield, Northwood, Kirkby, L33 1XP and take part in competitions on Sundays. All ages welcome, subs are £3 a week. Contact: Sharon 07724758633 SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER THE ARCH - THinK CLINIC 13:00 – 15:00 The Arch, 2 Ellison Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9GA. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936.
SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER YOUTH CLUB @ OURPLACE 16:30 – 19:30 OurPlace Youth Facility, Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. The Generic youth session each Saturday is aimed at young people aged 11 -19. During the session young people have access to the OurPlace Skate Park, The Media suite and the generic youth club activities (Pool, Table Tennis, Computer Games, Arts and Crafts) and also the MUGA. There is also awards, issue based projects and trips out through the school holidays. The cost for the youth club is £1 for non Members and 50p for members. The cost of the skate park is £3.50 for non members and £1 for members. Membership is an annual £5 fee. The skate park can be accessed by people over the age of 19 at a cost of £3.50. Contact: Mike Spinks 0151 443 5323. SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER WESTVALE YOUTH CLUB 18:45 – 21:15 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 MONDAY 14 OCTOBER HALEWOOD THinK CLINIC 15:00 – 18:00 The Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 9UH. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936. MONDAY 14 OCTOBER NIFTY 50’S 10:00 – 11:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A fun low impact class for anyone ages 50+. Price: £3. Contact Rebound Dance &
email your events to: thechallenge@merseymirror.com Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ MONDAY 14 OCTOBER FLAMES CHAIR EXERCISE AND SOCIAL GROUP 12:00 – 14:00 Kirkby Fire Station, Webster Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 8SJ. Chair Exercise. Social Activities for over 55 year olds. Cold Lunch £1.50 Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444. MONDAY 14 OCTOBER KIRKBY THinK CLINIC 15:00 – 18:00 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 MONDAY 14 OCTOBER HUYTON CHILDREN’S THEATRE 17:00 – 18:30 Huyton Arts & Sports Centre for Learning, Seel Road, Huyton, Merseyside, L36. 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 two 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 MONDAY 14 OCTOBER ZUMBA CLASS 18:30 – 20:00 Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Zumba Class for all ages, cost £3 per session. Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. MONDAY 14 OCTOBER KNOWSLEY VILLAGE YOUTH CLUB 18:30 – 20:30 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 – 07766 558895 MONDAY 14 OCTOBER CENTRE 63 YOUTH CLUB 16:30 – 20:30 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. MONDAY 14 OCTOBER YOGA 11:15 – 12:15 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A gentle, relaxing class for any age to reduce stress, improve posture, sleep and flexibility. Price: £3. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ MONDAY 14 OCTOBER LICKERS LANE YOUTH CLUB 18:30 – 20:30 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 – 07766 558895 TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER LONGVIEW KNITWITS 13:00 – 16:00 Longview Shops, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6DY. Would you like to invite you to join them to knit and crochet items for the neonatal unit of the Liverpool Women’s Hospital. For further information or to donate wool, please contact: Mary 07845 419766. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER KIRKBY GIRLS GROUP 18:30 – 20:30 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 15 OCTOBER YOUTH CLUB 17:00 – 19:00 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 – 07766 558895 TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER PARENTS AND TODDLER SESSIONS 13:00 – 15:00 Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Parents and Toddler Sessions - Cost 50p! For age group 1-5 yrs. Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER ACE YOUTH CLUB 18:15 – 20:45 Ace Youth Club, Stockbridge Neighbourhood Centre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village, Merseyside. L28 1AB. Generic Youth Club offering awards, issue based projects and trips out through the school holidays. Young people supported to design their own programmes e.g. residentials, arts, crafts, sports, computer suite, accreditations plus much more. Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Rose Spellacy 07810054134 or email: rose.spellacy@knowsley.gov.uk TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER BACK TO NETBALL 20:00 – 21:00 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 15 OCTOBER SECRET INGREDIENT’S 16:30 – 18:30 Hollies Hall, Hollies Road, Halewood, L26 0TH. Dancing classes, Free Style Disco Dancing Classes for ages 4-16 yrs. Cost £2.50 for 1 hour, £4 for 2 hours. Dance examinations and competitions (Regional and National). Regular Theatre appearances - singing and dancing. All qualified and registered teachers A.D.A., B.D.C., G.PT.D. UK professional teachers award. ADA School of the year award. Contact: General Enquiries, 0151 486 9594, amartin545@btinternet.com, c/o Hollies Hall, Hollies Road, Halewood, L26 0TH WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER THE CHOICES PROJECT 17:30 – 19:30 New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1TT. The Choices project provides an inclusive and challenging service for disabled children and young people aged 13-19 yrs. The project will be delivered by working directly with disabled young people in the local community. It aims to build self esteem and to engage participants in life changing opportunities. Contact: Michael Salkeld, 0151 702 0700, salkeldm@mya.org.uk, Merseyside Youth Association, The Door, 65-67 Hanover Street, Liverpool, L1 3DY. WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER ARRIVA PREMIERE MORRIS DANCERS 18:00 – 21:00 Westvale Community Centre, Richard Hesketh Drive, Richard Hesketh Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0TZ. Girls dancing class. There are five main troupes: Babies, Dinkies, Tinies, Juniors and Seniors. Plus a further two novice troupes of babies and tinies. The ages of the dancers currently range between 3 and 28 years. Cost is £1.50 sub per week and £3.50 bus fare for competitions every Sunday during April October. For ages: 2-60yrs. Contact details: Diane Taylor, 0151 474 4975, Westvale Community Centre, Richard Hesketh Drive, Richard Hesketh Drive, Kirkby, L32 0TZ WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER LINE DANCING 10:00 – 11:00 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 /
ONE NOT TO MISS
TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER GET ACTIVE Join the Great Outdoors Project for a fantastic week of fun and workshops. 11.am - 3.pm. Cost: Free. For more information or call 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER LITTLE MOVERS 16:00 – 17:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being, Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A fun dance class for ages 4-7yrs. Price: £3. Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ WEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER GUITAR CLUB 18:00 – 20:00 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 THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER ARNCLIFFE CENTRE YOGA CLASS 10:00 – 11:30 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 17 OCTOBER STREETWISE - MASTER D. JONES 19:00 – 20:30 Kirkby Leisure Centre, Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 8SA. Korean martial art for self defence and Olympic sport. Ages 4+. Master grade instruction - 5th Dan Master Grade. Registered B.T.C.B. Recognised by International Olympic Committee (I.O.C). Contact: 0751 5386593 FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER OUR PLACE THinK CLINIC 15:00 – 18:00 Our Place, Longview Lane, HUYTON, Merseyside, L36 3YE. 12 to 20 years sexual health service. Contact: 0151 296 7936 FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER STREETFEET 19:00 – 20:30 Huyton arts and sports college, Seel Road, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6DG. Street dance sessions for young people 5.30 - 7.00p.m. = 8-11 year olds, 7.00 - 8.30p.m. = 12-18 year olds. £2.00 per session. For further details contact: Sarah Craven on 0151 443 5618 or sarah.craven@knowsley.gov.uk FRIDAY 18 OCTOBER YOUTH CLUB FOR AGES 12+ 18:30 – 21:30 Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Youth club for ages 12+. Cost 50p per session. Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER MAKE A MAGICAL MINIBEAST 13:00 – 15:00 Eaton Street Park, Eaton Street, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 6HD. Find fun facts about the creepy crawlies in the park and build your favourite one using natural materials. Free Event. Contact the rangers for details - 0151 489 1239.
October 2013 11 MONDAY 21 OCTOBER FOOTBALL CAMP 09:00 – 15:00 Prescot Soccer Centre, Warrington Road, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5AD. Half Term Football Camp. Fully qualified football coaches trained to Level 2 & 3 standard. Football camp for ages 5 - 11 years, cost £7 per child per day, packed lunch and suitable clothing required (football camp will be delivered outside). Contact: Barry Lloyd 07825145105 or 0151 443 5715, barry.lloyd@knowsley.gov.uk MONDAY 21 OCTOBER BUSHCRAFT, DENMAKING AND FUN IN THE WOODS. 11:00 – 15:00 National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, L16 3NA. Part of the Autumn Harvest Celebration Week - Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October. Join the Great Outdoors Project for a fantastic week of fun and workshops. 11.am 3.pm. Cost: Free And much more! For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk MONDAY 21 OCTOBER STREET DANCE 18:00 – 20:00 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning, Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD. Street Dance sessions for all abilities and age groups. 6-7pm for ages 6-12 and 7-8pm for ages 13-19. No booking required. Contact Peter Green 443 5648 for costs and further details. TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER PARENTS AND TODDLER SESSIONS 13:00 – 15:00 Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Parents and Toddler Sessions - Cost 50p! For age group 1-5 yrs. Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT
WEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN HORRORS 1 – 3pm Jubilee Park Pavilion, Lincombe Road, Huyton A spooky afternoon of family fun making ghostly ghouls, batty bats and wicked witches ready for Halloween. Free of charge but children must be accompanied by an adult. For further information please contact the North Huyton Ranger on 0151 488 6151 or 07766 205541. WEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER SEEDS - SEED SWOP, BRING YOUR SAVED SEEDS TO SHARE, SEED STORIES, SEEDS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE AND SEED ART 11:00 – 15:00 National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, L16 3NA. Part of the Autumn Harvest Celebration Week - Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October. Join the Great Outdoors Project for a fantastic week of fun and workshops. 11.am 3.pm. Cost: Free. And much more! For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk WEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER 1ST KIRKBY SCOUT GROUP - CUB SCOUTS 18:00 – 19:30 Kirkby Scout Centre, Old Rough Lane, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 0YD. There are loads of fun things that you can do as a Cub Scout. You will get a chance to try lots of different activities like swimming, music, exploring, computing and collecting. If you do them properly you will get a badge which you can wear on your uniform. For ages 8–10 yrs. Cost: £3. Contact details: Matt Donnelly, 07929427266, info@1stkirkbyscouts.org.uk, Kirkby Scout Centre, Old Rough Lane, Kirkby, L33 0YD THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER APPLE DAY - APPLE PRESSING, APPLE TASTING, APPLE ART, APPLE CRUMBLE MAKING 11:00 – 15:00 National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, Merseyside, L16 3NA. Part of the Autumn Harvest Celebration Week - Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October. Join the Great Outdoors Project for a fantastic week of fun and workshops. 11.am - 3.pm. Cost: Free. And much more! For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk
FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN HORRORS 1-3pm McGoldrick Park, Rydal Road, Huyton. A spooky afternoon of family fun making ghostly ghouls, batty bats and wicked witches ready for Halloween. For further information please contact the South Huyton Ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843. FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER AFTER SCHOOL PLAY CLUB - TERM TIME 15:30 – 17:45 Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. For ages 4-11 Cost £1 plus 70p for a snack. Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER GET GROWING - WINDOW SILL SEED SOWING, PLANTING, JUICING AND COMPOSTING 11:00 – 15:00 National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, Merseyside, L16 3NA. Part of the Autumn Harvest Celebration Week - Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October. Join the Great Outdoors Project for a fantastic week of fun and workshops. 11.am - 3.pm. Cost: Free. And much more! For more information please call 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN HORRORS 1-3pm Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton. A spooky afternoon of family fun making ghostly ghouls, batty bats and wicked witches ready for Halloween. For further information please contact the South Huyton Ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN HORRORS 1-3pm Ten Acre Pits, Acacia Avenue, Huyton. A spooky afternoon of family fun making ghostly ghouls, batty bats and wicked witches ready for Halloween. For further information please contact the South Huyton Ranger on 0151 443 3114 or 07771 550843. MONDAY 28 OCTOBER EHARA AIKIDO KAN MARTIAL ARTS 18:00 – 21:00 Whiston Town Hall, Dragon Lane, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3QW. Practicing Aikido for Juniors & Seniors. Call for costs. All instructors are accredited coaches. Contact: Brian Funnell 07946 869169. TUESDAY 29 OCTOBER SOUTHDENE YOUTH CLUB 18:45 – 21:15 Southdene Community Centre, Broad Lane, KIRKBY, Merseyside, L32 9PQ. Youth Club activity for 11 to 19 years. Contact: Stephen Blackhurst, 0151 443 4466, stephen.blackhurst@knowsley.gov.uk WEDNESDAY 30 OCTOBER HALEWOOD TAE KWON-DO CLUB 18:00 – 19:00 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. THURSDAY 31 OCTOBER ARNCLIFFE CENTRE YOGA CLASS 10:00 – 11:30 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 31 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN HORRORS 17:30 – 19:30 Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3RG. Follow the spooky trail to claim your prize, but never look into the witches eyes!!! Bring a torch and wear wellies, it may be muddy. Free Activity, All ages. Contact the rangers on 0151 489 1239
12 October 2013
Teaching School launched
■ Anne Pontifax, headteacher with Stephen Twigg MP and Darren Gidman, teaching school director
St John Bosco Teaching School, Croxteth had its launch event recently. Guests including headteachers and education leaders across Liverpool and beyond were entertained by St John Bosco singers and dancers who had rehearsed tirelessly for the performance. Headteacher, Anne Pontifex discussed her vision for the teaching school as being one of collaboration with schools across Merseyside and the archdiocese. Teaching school director, Darren Gidman discussed the functions of the teaching school through “The Big 6”: Specialist Leaders of Education, School Direct, School to School Support, Succession Planning and Leadership, Continual Professional Development and Research and Development. The Rt Honourable Stephen Twigg officially opened the teaching school and discussed the collaboration of schools, Higher Education and the Local Authority in making the teaching school a success. Guests were then invited to an exhibition of the latest cutting edge technology in the classroom.
Outdoors with The Hairy Gardener Hi, my name is Peter Frances a.k.a. the Hairygardener Some gardeners who are reading this article will think Autumn’s here, time to put the trowel, spade etc away until next year but gardening is far from finished for the year if it ever finishes at all, in other words there is always something to do. Leaves are falling into our plots/gardens, rake or brush them up and get them on the compost heap, very valuable material for all our compost bins. If bulbs are your thing daffodils for example get them in the ground and light up your Spring. Thinking of changing the plants you grow in your garden then I’m your man because I seem to change my back garden every year and this year is no exception. I now have no back lawn, the whole lot gone and in its place is an orchard, food in the form of fruit in full production (Permaculture style, more about Permaculture in a future article). My fruit trees were originally growing in sizeable pots and producing fruit but now they have their feet (roots) free and with ‘tlc’, they will produce more fruit. One thing I did notice when I planted the trees was how dry the soil was due to the lack in this case of organic matter, which is now being rectified by mulching with home made compost, you see this where the leaves previously mentioned can help. There is never a more truer saying in gardening than the more you put in to it the more you take out. One more thing before I forget if you are growing over wintering onions it’s time to get them in, I grow them in a big pot so we can use them at different stages of their growth and by the way garlic can be grown the same way. Happy gardening
YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SHOP One Ark and Knowsley Chamber of Commerce have joined together and are giving two new or expanding retailers the opportunity to win a unit in Prescot Shopping Centre, rent free for a whole year! In addition to this, the winning retailers will receive a whole package of support to help them on their journey into self employment. This project was initiated by One Ark in partnership with Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, Vivark, CBRE, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council (KMBC), The Women’s Organisation, and Prescot Town Team aiming to support people into self-employment and help to regenerate our local high streets. In addition to 12 months rent free, the new retailers will also receive: • Full refurbishment of premises from Vivark • Free membership to Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, including: • One-to-one mentor support from a successful business owner • Support from The Women’s Organisation (female business owners only) • Access to First Ark Group staff knowledge and expertise in specialised areas e.g. Marketing, Finance, IT • KMBC Business Support team offering support and potential financial assistance • Access to MSIF assistance with growth and development plans and/or access to finance The unit has been chosen for its prominent location within the Town Centre. Being a corner unit, the premises benefit from two shop fronts and two streams of passing trade. Two businesses will be selected to occupy the 1400 square foot unit. New entrepreneurs and existing retailers are invited to submit expressions of interest between now 30th November 2013. Expressions of interest will be shortlisted by the panel who will then invite full applications. Applicants who reach the third stage will be invited in to meet the panel and present their business idea. An open day will be held on 2nd November 2013 between 10am and 3pm, were you are welcome to meet the team and visit the unit and meet the team behind the Knowsley ‘Win a Shop’ competition. Check out www.one-ark.co.uk Expressions of interest should be submitted via email to enquiries@one-ark.co.uk Or by post to: Laura McCumiskey, One Ark (Part of the First Ark Group), Lakeview Kings Business Park, Prescot L34 1PJ.
Golfing success for juniors
■ Team members: Josh Cowley, Daniel Croft, Louis O’Grady, Max Brown, Adam Cook and Lawrence Corris who was unable to make the finals but played a big part getting use there
Members of The Huyton and Prescot Golf Club were celebrating after the junior team triumphed in the Royal British Legion Golf Competition. Graham Gunson, Junior organiser at the club said: “At the being of the year we entered into the Royal British Legion golf competition which is the biggest junior golf competition in Europe “The competition covers all of Great Britain with 174 teams entering, this year the semi-finals and final were decided over three days on the 4th, 5th and 6th October at
Staverton Park GC Daventry. “Back in 2011 we got to the finals were we came fourth and we made a little bit of history being the first team to make the finals twice. “But this time we came first beating Mellor & Towncliffe GC from (Stockport) in the semi-final and Sundridge Park GC from (Kent) in the final. This is a great achievement from all the juniors, and all our members are very proud of their success”.
October 2013 13
YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON AT THE NATIONAL WILDFLOWER CENTRE
The Great Outdoors Project works to connect people with nature in a fresh and innovative way. Our lively programme of events encourages local people to get more active using Knowsley’s great parks and greenspaces and to use the National Wildflower Centre as a healthy hub. This October half term, 21st to 25th October we have a fantastic programme on offer to keep you well, active and healthy in nature. Following on from the popularity of previous years, our annual Autumn Harvest Celebration has just got bigger and better - you’ll be spoilt for choice as to which days to attend. All the activities listed are FREE so why not come along and make the most of the Great Outdoors all week. You’ll be sure to leave with new ideas and a fresh enjoyment of nature and all that bountiful Autumn at the National Wildflower Centre has to offer. There’s something on offer for all ages to enjoy.
Monday 21st Oct BUSHCRAFT DAY 11am – 3pm Den building with a difference Just bring your imagination and a sense of adventure. Natural crafts in the woods Get creative in the woods, there’s something for everyone. Campfire Antics Come along and sit around the campfire, get creative, tell stories, you can even toast your own lunch.
Tuesday 22nd Oct GET ACTIVE 11am – 3pm Fungi Forage 11.30am Join Fungi specialist, Tony Walker for a nature walk, hunting for fungi. Breeze Bike rides for women 10.30am Join this women and children only bike ride. For further info and to book your place, visit http://www.goskyride.com/Search/Details?even tid=31062 Pedal Away 2pm Join a family bike ride with Kevin from Pedal Away. Some children’s bikes are available to borrow, but bring your own if you can. No booking necessary. Nordic Walking 11am and 2pm Join Karen for a taster session in Nordic walking. Beginners welcome, children over 11 yrs.
Herbal health Herbal activities will be ongoing throughout the day. Learn how to make a herb vinegar for winter health. 1pm Join us for a herb walk around the park. Rescued Birds 11am-3pm Join Steve and his rescued Birds of Prey for some bird inspired funky moves. Autumn Collage 11am-3pm Get creative with fallen leaves. Art activities in the art barn throughout the day.
Wednesday 23rd Oct SEEDS DAY 11am – 3pm Seed Share Bring along your saved seeds to our seed swop, and take some new seeds away with you. This is a great way to keep costs down and meet with fellow growers. There’s still time to collect your seeds to bring along! Seed saving If you’re a first time seed saver, come along and learn some basic seed saving skills and techniques. Seed stories The first venture of our new Story Telling Throne. Stories new and old, seeds of ideas, stories of seeds… Seeds under the microscope Be fascinated by seeds. Take a close-up look at the wonders of nature. You will be astounded. Seed art Be inspired by nature and get creative.
Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Huyton, Liverpool L16 3NA The Cornflower Café will be serving up a healthy celebration of Autumn fare for you to enjoy. Be sure to taste our famous courgette, apple and beetroot cakes. We even have pumpkin cakes after our bumper harvest of pumpkins this year. Although our Display Gardens are now closed for the winter, our café remains open 7 days a week until the end of November. Weekdays the café is open 10am – 4pm, weekends from 10.30am – 3.30pm. Don’t forget we have conference facilities for hire as well as being an ideal venue for special occasions. With help from the Big Lottery and Knowsley Public Health, the National Wildflower Centre is becoming a happening hub of health and wellbeing. We have weekly activities running from the centre including Nordic walking, bike rides, healthy walks and our community programme. We also have various groups that use the café as a hub including Tai Chi classes, a local quilting group and Fag Ends.
Thursday 24th Oct APPLE DAY 11am – 3pm Apple pressing We will be pressing apples all day, for you to taste and enjoy. If you’ve got spare apples from your fruit trees, please bring and share. Apple tasting Be amazed by the taste and variety of our very own British apples. Apple art Fruit and vegetable art – be intrigued… Apple games Some good old fashioned apple games to take part in. Apple crumble Learn how to make your own apple crumble and take it away to bake and enjoy at home.
Friday 25th Oct GET GROWING DAY 11am – 3pm Windowsill seed sowing Learn about all the things you can grow during autumn and winter. Information, advice and practical workshops. Sprouting in bottles More windowsill growing, ideas and practical workshops. Composting Learn how to grow your own compost heap. Information, advice and practical workshops. Juicing Try your hand at juicing some greens with our extra special secret ingredient. Insect Hotels Build a 5 star accommodation for your favourite insects to help them through the winter.
Mini Winter Celebration Join us on Sunday 24th November between 12noon and 4pm for our ‘Mini’ Winter Celebration. This year we are planning an event with a natural twist, a cosy affair with stalls based in our conservatory area. You’ll find FREE festive workshops for all the family to enjoy including the very popular Wreath Making workshop. Craft Stalls are still available. If anyone would like to book a craft stall for this event please contact Christine on 0151 738 1913 or email christine@landlife.org.uk The Great Outdoors Programme continues into next year with our Creative Nature, health and wellbeing programme. Our ongoing volunteer programme works to improve confidence and skills through the 5 ways to wellbeing. For further information contact us on 0151 738 1913 or email events@landlife.org.uk. Keep checking the website for updates and new activities, www.nwc.org.uk. Follow us on facebook and twitter for updates.
14 October 2013
KNOWSLEY FOOD DRINK & LIFESTYLE FESTIVAL 2013 LAUNCHES AT SAFARI PARK Organisers of the two biggest Food and Drink festivals in the North West have announced a new event to be staged at Knowsley Safari Park on November 9th-10th. Stephen Wundke of Chester Food and Drink Ltd said he was delighted that this event was now a reality: “We have been working with JD Parties for some two years now to explore the possibilities of staging an event within the huge marquee they have at Knowsley Safari Park and we are delighted that both the Safari Park and Knowsley Borough Council were very keen to see this event take place. There is a massive interest currently in local food events, as evidenced by the record crowds that have attended our other two events at Chester and Event City Manchester and we know that the food producers of Merseyside and the Fylde coast have just as much to offer so with a great venue and some very enthusiastic partners we think we have put together a superb offer for those interested in food, drink and arts and crafts.” Organiser expect in excess of 12,000 people to attend the two day event with
■ Chef Simon Rimmer will attend the Knowsley Food and Drink Festival
over 100 exhibitors promised and a series of cooking demonstrations from some of the best chefs in the region. Simon Rimmer of the very successful Channel 4 programme Sunday brunch has been booked to attend and Liverpool’s brightest culinary star, Paul Askew will also be on the main stage. Children will enjoy their day out as well
COMPANY ORDERED TO COMPLETE DELAYED SPORTS PARK The company behind a delayed sports and nature park in Fazakerley has been legally ordered to complete the development by September 2014. UK Sports Parks’ scheme has been delayed and the stalled construction work on Aintree Lane has caused environmental and transport problems for the local community. Knowsley and Liverpool councils have previously issued a Completion Notice on the company and that has now been approved by the Minister for Communities and Local Government. That means the company must complete the development in line with the approved plans by 13 September 2014. If they fail to do so, the planning permission – originally granted in 2009 – will effectively be revoked. Knowsley Council’s planning committee discussed the matter last night. The council has again contacted UK Sports Parks and is awaiting a response to a meeting request and further details of how and when the remaining works will be completed. Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills, Cllr Dave Lonergan, said: “The delays and inconvenience to the local community caused by UK Sports Parks is completely unacceptable. “We are using all of the legal powers available to us to make sure the company fulfils its commitment and completes the work as agreed. We are demanding answers from the company as to when and how the work will be completed. “Approval of our completion notice leaves the company in absolutely no doubt about its responsibilities and the implications of failing to carry them out.”
with free kids cooking classes provided by the Academy of Culinary Arts team and of course all those who pre-purchase their tickets to attend will receive free admission to the Walk around section of the safari Park where they can see the baboons, sea lions, bats and bugs. Councillor Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Borough Council, was delighted
with the news and said this was further evidence of the growing reputation that the Borough was gaining in the event field “We are pleased that this new event has been added to the Knowsley Calendar. Coming on the back of the Tour of Britain bike race having a key stage here, there is a real feel good factor developing in Knowsley and with the news last week that Huyton based drinks company, Halewood International has brought the world’s greatest horse race sponsorship, The Grand National, back home it seems we are entering a very exciting time for development in Knowsley. I am sure that both local residents and visitors will welcome the opportunity to see great food, drink, arts and crafts in the midst of one of our biggest and most successful attractions. It seems an irresistible opportunity. Tickets to the two day event, which is totally under cover, in a football sized state of the art, marquee, are just £6 for adults, when bought in advance and children under 12 are free. For more information go to www.knowsleyfoodanddrink.com
Patients remember the 1950s at Whiston Hospital Patients at Whiston Hospital experienced a trip back in time this week as staff turned day rooms in an older people’s ward into a 1950s style village square. The event marked the introduction of the Trust’s new ’reminiscence rooms’ aiming to create a familiar environment for patients living with dementia or cognitive impairment. Four wards, especially dedicated to older people, now have a reminiscence room decorated in the style of the 1950s. The hospital setting can be disorientating for older people leaving their homes for any period of time and the reminiscence rooms, decorated and furnished with old keepsakes and ornaments can help patients to feel more comfortable in familiar surroundings. Patients are encouraged to communicate with staff and their visitors about their past lives, listen to old music and watch old films, and this can be extremely comforting when they have left their home in order to receive hospital care. At the launch event, patients and their visitors tucked into treats from the village tea room which served
■ Left to right: Herbert of Liverpool, Ward Sister Joanne Garvey, patient Olive Griffiths and Ann Marr, Chief Executive in the Reminiscence Room, Ward 5A, Whiston Hospital
classic afternoon tea and cakes, whilst a visit to the sweet shop, complete with old fashioned weighing scales, saw old favourites like Bon Bons and Everton Mints given to patients in paper bags. Also present on the day was the Trust’s Ambassador for Dignity in Care, Herbert of Liverpool, who took time out of his busy schedule to spend time with patients and visit the new rooms.
Ann Marr, Chief Executive said: “I am delighted that the reminiscence rooms are now ready for use by patients who can enjoy memories with staff and their families, watch old TV clips and listen to music they have enjoyed in their youth. Patients continue to benefit from the expert care of our dementia specialists who are dedicated to further improving the care of patients living with dementia.”
October 2013 15
Brand New w Festival
9th - 10th November 2013 at Knowsley Safari Park A Christmas showcase of exceptional regional produce set in the magnificent grounds of Knowsley Safari Park in a huge football pitch sized Marquee that keeps the elements at bay. An unforgettable weekend of food, drink, shopping and animals! The very best food, drink and lifestyle products on offer for you to sample, enjoy and buy. Bring the kids along for FREE (upto age of 12) and make a real family day of it. There isn’t a better value family day out anywhere in the UK in the lead up to Christmas.
Admission £6 £ (pre-boughtt tickets) or £8 £ on the day Includes Include es FREE entrance to the walkabout areaa of the Safari Park for all pre-booked tickets.
Fooding p p o Sh fari Sa
Book Tickets Tickkets Online
knowsleyfoodanddrink.co.uk k. k
16 October 2013
Education
PUPILS CELEBRATE THEIR SCHOOL’S 40th BIRTHDAY!
Pupils in Prescot have stepped back to the 70s to celebrate their school’s 40th anniversary. Current pupils at Evelyn Community Primary were joined by 40 VIP guests to mark the occasion. It was a colourful, funfilled day of nostalgic celebration. Guests included the school’s two former head teachers, former staff and former pupils whose own children now attend the school. The children sang Abba classics dating from 1973 when the school first opened its doors, and compared the price of items back then with now. They took a fascinating look at the school’s log books which revealed an opening cohort of 80 children, today it’s four times that number. Also teaching staff as young as 20. An owl display commemorated the school’s emblem while it’s real-life creative and skills-based curriculum (ARCS), which encourages the children to bring out their creative side both in and outside of the
classroom, and to link their learning to reallife situations, was celebrated with an umbrella dance to the Morecambe and Wise signature tune ‘Bring me Sunshine’. The head teacher penned a birthday poem charting the school’s history which pupils performed and forty ruby red balloons were released to culminate the anniversary event. Mrs Carole Arnold, headteacher at Evelyn Community Primary School, said: “We’ve all had a wonderful time celebrating our school’s special anniversary. The pupils have really enjoyed discovering lots about the 70s from the music and fashion to the cost of living and school life. “Everyone connected with the school has such a lot to celebrate, we’re all proud of what the school stands and determined to continue to work together and strive to get even better and better.” “Today’s event launches a series of events which we’ve got planned throughout the year to celebrate the school’s 40th anniversary.”
Top marks for Knowsley Secondary School A Knowsley secondary school for pupils with complex learning difficulties has been given a first rate report by school inspectors. A report by education watchdog Ofsted described Alt Bridge Secondary Support Centre in Huyton as an “outstanding” school where “students are making outstanding progress” due to “outstanding teaching and an excellent curriculum”. The two inspectors who visited the school found teachers “making every effort to include and engage all students, whatever their ability or type of need”. They report staff ‘do everything they can to make sure that all [pupils] are well cared for and supported around the clock and not just in school’. Students are constantly encouraged to aspire to more independence and are proud when they are able to make their own way to school on public transport rather than rely on school transport.
Inspectors make special mention of the school’s sporting achievements, it fields several teams in many sports and achieves huge success and provisions are ‘stunning’. This is the school’s second successive “outstanding” Ofsted report. Barry Kerwin, Head teacher, said: “Everyone at Alt Bridge Secondary Support Centre has worked really hard to continue to push up standards and raise pupil’s expectations and aspirations and this report proves we have achieved this. “We’re very proud the inspectors rated the school ‘outstanding’ in every category. Their findings are proof our special educational needs students have some of the best teaching and support, in the country.” Cllr Graham Wright, Knowsley’s cabinet member for children and families, said: “The whole school should be very proud of their achievements. The outstanding Ofsted report is testament to the hard work, dedication and determination from everyone involved.”
Festival draws record crowds! Rainford’s first ever Summer Festival was a real scorcher – with thousands of people enjoying fun in the sun! On a blisteringly hot summer’s day recently, The Rainford Summer Festival drew crowds of over 3,000 visitors to our new state-of-the-art High School. The Festival - which was designed to mark the completion of the £27million new school and promote local businesses - featured a packed programme of live music, food, crafts and fun for the whole family. Visitors were treated to a wide range of attractions including performances from some of the Borough’s most talked about up-and-coming bands, an international food court and variety of games, attractions and stalls. Students from the Higher Lane school also showcased their talents in a series of performances across the day. Rainford High School Principal Ian Young said: “It was an amazing day and we were thrilled to see so many local people join us for our celebration of both the school and our village. “Rainford is a vibrant community and Saturday really showed just what the area has to offer for everyone.” The Festival drew support from a range of local businesses and is set to become a highlight of the local summer calendar for some time to come. Terry Rigby, Vice Principal, said: “I came with my family and we all thought the event was excellent. In particular we felt there was a real family atmosphere with a range of events and activities to suit everyone. The whole event was professionally organised and so much better than a typical school fete”.
October 2013 17
ST HELENS COLLEGE LAUNCHES BRAND NEW A LEVEL ACADEMY St Helens College has announced the launch of its brand new A Level Academy. Students will now be able to study a package of three A levels, choosing from a bespoke selection of options, carefully chosen to complement each other. Achieving A levels will enable students to go onto university to study on an undergraduate programme. They also show potential employers that students are capable of thinking and working at a higher level. St Helens College offers a modern learning experience in a new £60 million state of the art campus. Students are treated as individuals and as adults, they are encouraged to become independent thinkers, and take control of their own learning. We have specialist advice and guidance staff, who will be available to help A level academy students select which courses they want to study. Options include Statistics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Religious Studies, Biology, Physical Education, Psychology, Applied Art and Design, Chemistry, Business Studies, Law, Maths, English, IT and History. With the addition of these A levels, St Helens College has broadened its curriculum to suit all learners. It now offers both vocational and academic study. A levels are studied over two years. As students pick a combination of subjects, they are leaving their career path open, and can go onto study a variety of degree courses. The way in which they study is mainly classroom based and assessment are in the form of exams and coursework assignments. With vocational courses, such as BTECs, NVQs and Diplomas, students only study one option such as Science or Hairdressing. This means that they have already selected their career path and the range of university level courses open to them is narrow. Learning is practical, and assessments are mainly practical, with some written work alongside. St Helens College offers a wide range of higher education courses, and currently has over 1000 students studying on both full and part time degree courses. Our tutors have a wealth of experience teaching at degree level and have both the knowledge and understanding to be able to offer excellent A level tuition. After completion of A levels we guarantee a place for all of our students on our Higher Education degree courses which are accredited by prestigious university partners. We can provide support in completing UCAS applications or offer career advice for those who want to move into employment. For more information about the brand new A Level Academy visit www.sthelens.ac.uk, call 0800 99 66 99 or visit an Open Evening on one of the following dates; 30 October 2013, 27 November 2013, 29 January 2013. All events are 5pm-7.30pm.
Recipe for success A St Helens College student is reaching for stars after securing a job working for a celebrity chef. Emma Wilson’s passion for cookery led to her enrolling on the Colleges Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery. The former Huyton Arts and Sports Centre for Learning pupil gained valuable industry knowledge during the course whilst also receiving hands on experience. After successfully completing the course Emma decided it wasn’t time to hang up her apron just yet and enrolled onto the advanced level 3 course. The course allowed Emma to develop her skill set further and opened up an exciting job opportunity, she is now working as a Commis Chef at celebrity chef Marco Pierre White’s restaurant in Liverpool. Emma says, “I have transferred the skills and knowledge I gained at the College into my current role as Commis Chef. The catering industry is challenging but also very rewarding. I hope to continue gaining experience at work and also plan to travel the world; tasting and learning about different cuisines. The course has opened up many doors for me, I’d really recommend it”. The course, which delivers the skills and knowledge needed for a career in catering and hospitality, covers a range of areas and, like Emma, could lead to a successful career in cookery for hardworking students.
ST HELENS COLLEGE OPEN EVENING 30 OCTOBER 5.00pm - 7.30pm t t t t t
Find out about the massive range of courses we offer View our fantastic facilities Speak to tutors about the courses you’re interested in Take part in interactive activities and taster sessions Get careers advice and guidance
MAKE SURE YOU COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE! TECHNOLOGY CENTRE CAMPUS Waterside, Pocket Nook, St Helens, WA9 1TT For courses in Engineering, Construction and Animal Care. TOWN CENTRE CAMPUS Water St, St Helens, WA10 1PP For all other courses
DROP IN WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS EVERYONE’S WELCOME! 0800 99 66 99 www.sthelens.ac.uk
sthelenscollege @sthelenscollege
18 October 2013
KNOWSLEY CELEBRATES ITS GOOD NEIGHBOURS The stars from Knowsley’s communities were recognised for their kindness towards others in the Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards. The awards gave people the chance to nominate that someone special who goes the extra mile to help their neighbour, or who works to make their local community a better place to live. The nominees were whittled down to five winners, with one also being chosen as the overall ‘Borough Winner’. The five winners were Molly Spencer, from Huyton; Margaret Breen and John Stock from Kirkby; John Fletcher from Cronton, and Ritchie Maher from Halewood. John Stock was also chosen as the Borough Winner. The ‘Good Neighbours’ were treated to afternoon tea with the Mayor of Knowsley, Cllr Brian O’Hare, before being presented
with a special Good Neighbours in Knowsley Award and certificate. Organised by The Knowsley Partnership, the Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards highlight the importance of everyone playing their part to make their community a better place to live. A small gesture to help a neighbour can go a long way in building relationships and strengthening the local community. Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, commented, “The Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards are a fantastic way to recognise those who go out of their way to help their neighbour or who make a difference in the local community.” “We have a strong community spirit here in Knowsley and it’s great to be able to recognise and say thank you to those special people in the borough.”
■ Good Neighbours in Knowsley Award winners with Mayor of Knowsley, Cllr Brian O’Hare. (L-R) Margaret Breen, Ritchie Maher, John Fletcher, John Stock and (front) Molly Spencer
FIRST FIRE SAFETY WEEK HELD IN KNOWSLEY Office staff joined firefighters and fire prevention staff in Knowsley to visit communities and highlight fire safety and the importance of having working smoke alarms as the first day of the first ever Fire Safety Week took place across Merseyside. For the first time, staff from sites including the headquarters of Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service as well as advocates and fire crews joined Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s 28 fire appliances as they visited homes in communities across Merseyside on Monday. During Monday 523 properties were visited across Knowsley and 169 Home Fire Safety Checks were completed across areas in Kirkby and Huyton. The week coincided with the International Day of Older Persons and UK Older People’s Day on Tuesday, October 1. Staff from Knowsley’s community fire prevention team joined an Age UK club at the George Howard Centre in Whiston on the day. Members from two other Knowsley Age UK clubs also joined people at the centre and 25 older people were there on the day. Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service funded and provided Tai Chi and a buffet lunch, which was also part-funded by Costco, for the members of the groups on the day as well as providing fire safety advice and information, and taking part in their activities. Sarah Bell, Knowsley District Prevention Manager for Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, said: “Older people can be more vulnerable and at greater risk of experiencing a fire and we work throughout the year with partner agencies including Knowsley Council to reduce those risks across communities in Knowsley. “The members were all very happy and excited to see the Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MF&RS) staff at the club and took the opportunity to ask plenty of questions as well as take part in the activities and free buffet. It was a lovely event which all attendees, including MF&RS staff, thoroughly enjoyed. It really
felt like a celebration of older people.” For the first time ever all staff at Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service headed into communities across Merseyside with operational firefighters to help reduce the risk of fire in people’s homes as part of a Fire Safety Week. Staff from all areas of the Service, who cover roles including administration and statistics analysis and research, volunteered to help spread safety messages as widely as possible, working alongside operational firefighters and prevention advocates. Each day of Fire Safety Week focused on key fire safety messages which includes urging people not to use chip pans and instead use deep fat fryers and the importance of having working smoke alarms in their homes. A theme was given to each of the week days as part of the first Fire Safety Week. Monday, September 30, saw the focus turned on smoke alarms, home fire safety advice and escape routes and all our staff were carrying out Home Fire Safety Checks across the county of Merseyside.
“We wanted to highlight our safety messages as widely as possible, particularly as winter approaches” Group Manager Gary Oakford, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service district manager for Knowsley, said: “Our staff and firefighters worked together on the streets of our communities across Knowsley, fitting smoke alarms and giving home fire safety advice to hundreds of people in just one day. Fire Safety Week continued strongly from day one and saw our service highlighting kitchen fire safety and the dangers of leaving cooking unattended as well as helping to reduce the risks of fire to older people. “Although our firefighters, fire protection officers and prevention staff carry out work in the community to help improve fire safety and reduce the risks of fire throughout the year we wanted to highlight our safety messages as widely as possible, particularly as winter approaches.
“One of the focus areas of Fire Safety Week was safer heating and we issued free oil-filled radiators to replace those including two bar electric heaters and those with unsafe heating including frayed wires. This follows on from the Winter Warm project launched in 2011 which helped save lives providing safe heating for vulnerable people in Merseyside. “Every week we see examples where smoke alarms have alerted people and given people the vital time they need to escape a fire. Early detection of a fire can also allow us to limit fire damage by stopping the fire from spreading and limit the detrimental impact fire can have on communities. “The Fire Safety Week also coincides with chimney safety week and we advise people to have their chimneys swept before the winter really sets in. Each year in Merseyside we see call-outs to chimney fires caused by a build up of combustible materials. Getting your chimney swept will reduce the chances of a fire starting in your home. “For free fire safety advice contact 0800 731 5958.” Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s Knowsley Community Fire Prevention team also has a stock of oil-filled heaters that can replace unsafe or dangerous heaters in people’s homes to replace unsafe heating appliances including two bar electric heaters. These are being distributed through referrals from partner agencies and the public. To make a referral email fireservicedirect2@merseyfire.gov.uk The week comes as new figures show that just under half of house fires attended across Knowsley by Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service since 2010 did not have a smoke alarm. Out of 560 house fires across Knowsley attended by firefighters between January 1, 2010 and September 16 this year there were no smoke alarms in 218, or 38.9%, of the properties. In total eight properties across Knowsley which had a fire during the period had smoke alarms but the battery had been removed.
October 2013 19
THE
BEST
performing college in Merseyside and Cheshire *
Congratulations to the Class of 2013 whose exam results place Carmel as one of the very best A Level providers in the country once again. The college has recently invested over £23 million in first class facilities, has an impressive range of courses and provides outstanding support for all its students; no wonder Ofsted judged Carmel as “outstanding in all aspects of its provision”. *The Telegraph, % A* grades (16-08-13)
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There’s more to life at Carmel than just getting your qualifications. We encourage our students to get involved, make new friends and take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to them.
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100% Pass Rate in over forty subjects A*- B 57.9% A*- C 81.7% A*- E 99.3%
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Stay fit in the gym or get stu in with ou ck r range o f team sp orts
s Over 50 activities to choose from s Additional qualifications eg. Cabin Crew Diploma s Subject-specific trips at home and abroad s National competitions – s Work Experience Science, Maths, Public Speaking s Music and Performing Arts
OPEN EVENINGS Wednesday 16th October Thursday 7th November Tuesday 12th November 6.00 - 8.30pm
Apply Online Now at www.carmel.ac.uk
2014 Prospectus available to DOWNLOAD NOW! Follow us on Twitter Find us on Facebook
Carmel College, Prescot Road, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 3AG Tel: 01744 452214/452212 (Admissions) Email: info@carmel.ac.uk A Catholic College for the Community
20 October 2013
KNOW YOUR UNITS CAMPAIGN EDUCATES DRINKERS IN KNOWSLEY
Health
Protecting you and your child against measles Public Health professionals in Knowsley are advising residents, particularly children, to ensure they have had the two doses of the MMR vaccine. Although it is important for all children to be fully vaccinated, a priority target group is young people aged 10-16 years, where we know uptake of the vaccine has been historically lower than younger age groups. Adults who work with children should also ensure they are vaccinated or immune to measles. Measles is a highly infectious disease and spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. The most effective protection against measles infection is full immunisation with two doses of MMR vaccine. In order to increase the update of the vaccine, a school immunisation programme with be taking place across Knowsley secondary schools over the coming months. The campaign will invite pupils who have not had the MMR vaccine, or only had one dose, to take part in the programme. Alternatively, you can still receive the MMR vaccine from your GP. If you are unsure if your child has received the vaccine, check their ‘red book’ or call your GP. Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health in Knowsley, said “I would encourage as many people as possible to ensure they are immunised against measles. It is a highly infectious disease which can be avoided by ensuring you have received the two doses. It is never too late to get vaccinated, so if your child hasn’t received the MMR vaccination, ensure they take part in the school programme or make an appointment with your GP today.” Further information can be found on www.nhs.uk
Knowsley Council’s campaign to help people understand the amount of alcohol they are consuming has proved to be a huge success. As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, the council held a roadshow around the borough, visiting Kirkby, Prescot, Stockbridge Village and Huyton plus the Knowsley stage of the Tour of Britain cycle race at Knowsley Safari. As well as distributing thousands of advice leaflets designed to help people understand the risks of alcohol and how to make sure their intake remained within safe limits, the council also invited members of the public to take part in a quiz designed to gauge their normal alcohol consumption and their risk of alcohol dependency or abuse. Almost 700 people took part in the quiz. Anyone who was identified as consuming in excess of the safe limits was signposted through to a range of support agencies. As well as the health effects of excessive drinking, people who took part were also advised on the financial impact regular drinking can have. Many people took extra
literature for friends and family to help raise awareness of this important issue, particularly in the run up to the festive period. The roadshow staff reported that many people were surprised by the size of a true measure of alcohol and how easy it is to go beyond safe limits. Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health said “The roadshow aimed to raise awareness of how many of units of alcohol are in a variety of drinks, together with what is a safe level. We are really
pleased with the number of people we have engaged with and the positive feedback we have received, and have therefore gone some way to achieving this goal. “We are committed to helping residents improve their health and wellbeing, and this is just one of a number of initiatives we are running to encourage a healthier happier lifestyle.” For more information on where to access alcohol advice visit www.drinkaware.co.uk
Aged 11 to 16 and got something on your mind? Teenage Health in Knowsley (THinK) can help with • Healthy Eating • Health Problems • Drugs and Alcohol • Stopping Smoking • Bullying • Relationships and Sexual health • Emotional Health and Well-being • Domestic Abuse and more… specialised type of support, we’ll direct you to the right people and services.”
If you’re aged 11 to 16 and having problems at home, school or college that are affecting your health – your School Health Team can help.
During term-time you can speak to a school nurse during a lunchtime drop-in session at your school.
Whether you’re struggling with conditions like asthma, epilepsy or diabetes or you want to smoke or drink less or eat more healthily there’s lots of practical hints and tips we can give you to help you to start to enjoy your life again.
You can also call in on our nurses at Whiston Primary Care Resource Centre on Old Colliery Road every Tuesday between 3.30pm and 5pm – including over the school holidays. If you live outside the Whiston/Prescot area please call us on the number below and we will direct you to a school nurse in your area.
We’re here for you to help you manage emotional problems too – especially if you’re struggling with bullies; a difficult situation at home or having relationship or sexual health problems. “Our trained nurses have lots of experience when it comes to speaking to and helping children and young people,” says Colette Greaves, Performance Quality Lead for the team.
You can come alone or with your parents – it’s up to you. But please do ‘THinK’ about contacting us. You don’t have to struggle alone. “We’re not here to judge, we’re here to listen to you in confidence and to help when we can. If you need a more
To find out more about ‘Teenage Health in Knowsley’ call 0151 426 0611.
October 2013 21
HEALTH CHECKS IN KNOWSLEY With winter approaching, Public Health professionals in Knowsley are reminding residents aged 40-74 years to have their free NHS Health Check. It’s a quick and simple check to assess the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and kidney disease. The Health Check Practitioner will: • Ask some simple questions about things like family history and current lifestyle • Measure height and weight • Make a note of age, sex and ethnicity • Measure blood pressure • Check cholesterol with a simple blood test (finger prick test) A health check could help to identify any conditions early, enabling residents to receive preventative treatment, which will ultimately add years on to people’s lives. The NHS Health Check programme is for people aged 40-74 and is focussed on preventing conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. If you live in Knowsley and are aged between 40-74 years, call the Health Check Nurses on 0800 032 5821 or 07976 148 617. They can advise if you meet the eligibility criteria and will also be able to book you in for a health check at your GP or a community venue. Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health in Knowsley, said “We know that by making a few simple changes in our behaviour and lifestyle can have a major positive impact on our health and wellbeing. Many of the longterm conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease can be avoided through these simple changes. That is what the Health Check aims to do and I would encourage as many residents as possible, aged between 40-74 years, to arrange their appointment today.”
KNOWSLEY LAUNCHES SCHOOL DEFIBRILLATOR SCHEME Knowsley Council has launched its scheme to provide every school in the borough with a lifesaving defibrillator. The council is investing £70,000 in equipment and training for all primary, secondary and special schools within Knowsley. It is supported by the Oliver King Foundation, which was set up in memory of 12-year-old Oliver King, who sadly died at his Liverpool school in March 2011 from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS). The initiative was launched at St Andrew the Apostle Catholic Primary School in Halewood. The school was presented with its defibrillator by Oliver’s father, Mark King, and Sheena Ramsey, the chief executive of Knowsley Council. During the launch, hosted by Liverpool councillor Jake Morrisson, staff, children and parents listened to a presentation on the importance of defibrillators by Zaf Iqbal, Liverpool FC doctor. The children then launched 61 blue balloons from the playground, each balloon representing a Knowsley school receiving a defibrillator through the scheme.
Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for children and family services, Cllr Graham Wright, said: “I’m delighted that we are introducing defibrillators in all Knowsley schools and it is fantastic to have the support of the Oliver King Foundation. “It is absolutely crucial that children and young people are well looked after during the school day. Having a defibrillator on site means that trained staff will be able to take swift, life-saving action in the thankfully rare event that one may
be required.” Mark King, founder of the Oliver King Foundation, said: “It is a great pleasure that The Oliver King Foundation will be working in partnership with Knowsley Borough Council. “It’s fantastic news that Knowsley Council are ensuring that from September 2013 each school will have fully trained staff who can use a defibrillator and all schools in the borough will now have the much needed access to life saving equipment.”
22 October 2013
This Month with Jess Corcoran
‘In my Liverpool Home’ I
'm writing this to a soundtrack that is alternating between the Beatles and the wombats, with some classic old school atomic kitten thrown in for good measure. Above my laptop, on the window ledge, a small ceramic lamb banana is perched next to plaque with one word on it– ‘Home’. If I tell you that instead of John and Paul, I should be immersing myself in all things Noel and Liam will it give you a clue of my current location? Does having to swap Huyton village or Liverpool one to the Arndale or the northern quarter help to enlighten you at all? In simple terms, this month, and pretty much the next three years I’ve parted company with Knowsley and Liverpool and instead I’m naming Manchester as I place that I’m am living. I’m here studying for a degree in Youth and Community work and so far, its going okay. But one barrier I'm finding is just how much I miss all things ‘home’. I mean this in a rather unusual way. See, I don't miss the house I lived in before I came here, nor do I even really miss all the people that surrounded me there. I miss the city. I’ve spoken to my friends who have moved up and down the UK and I could quote them all for saying they miss the people they know and love. I instead, miss the people I don’t. That may sound strange, so let me expand. It’s so easy to communicate with anyone all over the world these days and I could text/tweet/skype someone in as far away as
Australia at a moments notice if I really wanted to. With this in mind, I find it hard to really miss the people I know back in Liverpool. How can I miss them when really, they haven’t gone anywhere! Moving cities hasn’t erased them from my contact list or Facebook friends and I can jump on the train and be back with them in under a hour. Though the people I don’t know, that’s different. All them faces I’ll probably never put a name to in a crowd in town on a Saturday afternoon are the people I miss. By this I mean that atmosphere of Liverpool. The friendly faces, the thick accents shouting “Eccchoooo” or “ehhh girrllll.” I miss it more then I thought possible. I also miss a thousand little things about
Liverpool, like the fact most people know how to cross a road! And also, your never too far away from a chippy. Whoever said the shops are better in Manchester too is lying, I never thought I’d utter the words, but here, Primark is too big! I’ve been to a few big capital cities in my 18 years; London, Paris, Barcelona and Belfast, and even though Liverpool isn’t a capital, and in the grand scheme of things is pretty damn small on a map, I still believe it it to far out way anywhere else I’ve ever been. So even though I’ll still be here in Manchester, I can’t help occasionally being a day tripper back to the streets I know and love so well. My heart it seems, will forever be, “In my Liverpool home” regardless of where my head and shoe collection are.
Where we love is home - home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts. Oliver Wendell Holmes
Health & Fitness - with Emma Armstrong of Zest Wellness
Be varied, not boring 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
Diets can be confusing, and with so many people telling you about new diets, it can be tempting to eliminate a food group completely. With all contradictory advice it is important to understand why not to avoid food groups and why a balanced and varied diet is necessary for good health. A lot of dieters see carbohydrates as unnecessary calories however this could not be further from the truth. Carbohydrates are broken down into a simple molecule called glucose – an obligate fuel. This means it is essential for the body. Glucose is the body’s first port of call when it needs energy. Your body’s most vital organ, the brain, works solely off carbohydrates and by following a low carb diet you will be preventing you brain working to its full functionality. You may notice this as a lack of concentration, irritability and lethargy. Proteins provide your body with vital amino acids which enable your body to build strong muscles, hair, skin and nails, as well as enzymes for important reactions within the body. However – foods which provide our bodies with protein are often high in harmful
saturated fats e.g. mince meat and steaks. To combat this, when choosing meats look for lean options to reduce your fat consumption. Alternatively choosing a vegetarian option such as quorn or tofu can significantly reduce the amount of fat with your consumed through your proteins. As another alternative adding beans and pulses to your meals as an alternative to meat. When on a diet it may seem like eating anything that contains fat should be avoided at all cost. However some fats, such as unsaturated fats from sources such as olive oil, nuts and avocados, and omega oils, which come from flax seeds and oily fish, are actually highly beneficial to our health and should not be eliminated from our diets. Fat types to be avoided are saturated fats and trans-fats. Most people are
getting too much of these kinds of fats which increase the risk of suffering a range of health problems including heart attack and stroke. Remember that fats contain more than double the amount of calories per gram than carbohydrates and proteins so limit your intake if you are trying to lose weight and swap to the good fats where you can. Thinking of weight loss as a lifestyle change and not something temporary is a great way to increase your success. Small changes over time can have a huge impact on health and weight. When making changes be realistic, think about what changes you can keep up and go for it. If you have any questions or need any hep or information you can contact me at: emma@zestwellness.co.uk
October 2013 23
New Consultant From 31st October KIRKBY Holy Angels Social Club Sidney Powell Avenue Thursday 4 pm & 6pm Sue 07546 148204 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 Speke The Metal Boxonions Sports And Social Club, Speke Boulevard 5.00pm & 6.30pm Clare 07950 631858
Prescot St James Church Hall St Helens Road (Near The Wellington Pub) 9.30am, 11.30am 4.30pm & 6.30pm Lynn 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 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 9.00am Lynn 07739 167051
24 October 2013
Business
EXPANSION PLANS AT CENTRAL GROUP Knowsley based Central Group has taken a further 10,000 sq ft of space in a move required to accommodate the growing needs of the family owned engineering business which specialises in the service of rotating machinery and associated control. The new accommodation is located at Penrhyn Court, just 500 metres away from the Group’s main business location on Knowsley Business Park, and will be used for a combination of drives service centre, training facilities and storage . Work is currently being carried out to convert the new accommodation, creating the climate controlled conditions required for the storage of Electric Motors and Variable Speed Drives. Central will be able to use the new space for the storage of clients’ stock as well as a brand new drive service workshop. By the end of the year state-of-the-art conference and training facilities will be used for both staff and
clients. Says Shaun Sutton, Director and Co-owner of Central Group: “The new building at Penryn Court is an excellent addition to the company. It will provide us with more space helping us to accommodate our expansion plans, whilst also ensuring minimum disruption to the day to day running of the business. It ‘s location just across the road from where we’re already based means no changes are needed to our workforce and we can continue to operate smoothly and even more effectively.” Central Group was founded in 1972 and remains a family owned and managed business today. The headquarters are in Knowsley, Merseyside with an additional sales office in Willenhall, West Midlands. Central supplies products and services throughout the UK with the major markets served including: water, metals, chemical, food & beverage, hydrocarbon processing and renewable energy.
VIVARK KEEPS IT LOCAL WITH NEW VAN FLEET Vivark has shown its commitment to boosting its local economy by handing contracts worth more than half a million pounds to Knowsleybased companies. The repairs and maintenance/facilities management company, which is based in the borough, has awarded five-year contracts for the repair and maintenance of its new fleet of vans, which includes tyre service, livery, servicing, MOTs, washing and warranty work. The Knowsley suppliers will be working on Vivark’s new fleet of 175 vehicles is being leased on a five-year basis and will be used by operatives working out in communities in grounds maintenance, property repairs and maintenance, void properties and handyman services. Vivark set out to work with local companies when sourcing suppliers for the new fleet to boost the ‘Knowsley Pound’ – keeping cash in the borough. Tony Cahill, Executive Director of Commercial Services at Vivark, said: “While in some cases using suppliers from further afield would have delivered a local financial cost, we chose to work with Knowsley companies to invest in our local economy. There are also environmental benefits as suppliers will not have to travel as far to reach us for repairs and
Businessman gets on his bike to work in tandem with Knowsley Chamber
emergency call-outs. “By working with predominantly Knowsley companies we are also helping secure employment for local people for the next five years. “Where we have not been able to find a supplier suited to our needs in the local area we have strived to make sure the companies we work with have a strong commitment to ‘social responsibility’, supporting our
ambitions to provide added value to communities.” Vivark provides added value through its work by creating employment and training opportunities, staff volunteering programmes and other benefits to communities. Through its partnerships with the new suppliers the company will be looking to develop ways they can work together to further ‘add value’ in Knowsley.
Enterprise support launches 1000 new businesses A hairdresser has proved she is a cut above the rest by becoming the 1000th person to start a business with support from the New Enterprise Allowance and St Helens Chamber. Mary Jane Chadwick, 32, had always worked in the hair and beauty industry before having her son, Alfred, who is now four, but becoming a single parent and finding herself unemployed spurred her on to make a radical change to her life by deciding to go it alone and start her own business. After visiting JobCentre Plus, Mary Jane found the help she needed in the New Enterprise Allowance, an initiative that offers invaluable mentoring support from a volunteer business mentor as well as some financial assistance to unemployed people that want to start a business. St Helens Chamber delivers the New Enterprise Allowance, in conjunction with four other Chambers in Merseyside. Mary Jane says: “I hated being on benefits. I just thought I can’t live like this anymore and I have to do something about it but it was difficult as a single parent and I didn’t know where to start.” She enrolled herself on a short computer course to build her skills as well as attending a six-part business start-up course, delivered by the Chamber. St Helens Chamber have recently received news that the New Enterprise Allowance programme will be extended until the end of 2014, providing even more opportunity to support local people to start their own business.”
Merseyside businessman Steve Daly got on his bike to develop a leaner business after taking advantage of a health initiative being offered by Knowsley Chamber. Steve (pictured), managing director of Kingfisher Design and Print, purchased two mountain bikes after receiving a grant through the Chamber’s Working Well initiative. He has since developed a passion for cycling, along with business partner Carl Brooks who rides to and from work, and has managed to shed two stones in the process. “We received £500 to buy two mountain bikes and it has literally transformed us and our business,” said Steve, who set up Kingfisher Design and Print eight years ago and now counts the University of Liverpool and QVC amongst his clients. “Carl and I initially began by cycling around Knowsley Business Park, where we are based and built it up from there. Carl now cycles to and from work three times a week and I have developed a keen interest in cycling at weekends. “I have managed to lose two stones and it has given us lots more energy to run our business, which we really need as we are busier than ever. “Running your own business requires a lot of energy but businesspeople can lose that, particularly when they reach middle age. This initiative has been terrific for us and when we come into work we feel energised and are full of enthusiasm.” Funded by Knowsley Public Health, Working Well is a Government initiative that aims to encourage businesses to take a greater role in prevention and health improvement, both with their staff and the wider community. The idea is that by addressing staff wellbeing, as well as legal obligations around health and safety, companies should improve business productivity and efficiency due to reduced absences and lower staff turnover. Working Well is based on targets around healthy eating, physical activity, alcohol reduction, smoking cessation, mental health and wellbeing and health and safety. Lesley Martin-Wright, Chief Executive of Knowsley Chamber, said: “We are now in our second year of the Working Well initiative which is the result of an effective working partnership between ourselves and Knowsley Council. “The take up has been terrific with 58 businesses taking advantage of the grant, with a further 138 businesses signing up to following the Working Well standards. The aim is to create a healthier, more resilient workforce and this has certainly proved the case at Kingfisher Design and Print.”
October 2013 25
26 October 2013
YOUNG FOOTBALLERS PUT THROUGH THEIR PACES BY LIVERPOOL FC STAR Youngsters have been brushing up on their soccer skills this summer with help from one of Knowsley’s footballing superstars and Oriel, the new name in home building. Around 100 young people took part in the youth football camp at Huyton Arts and Sports Centre for Excellence, supported by the Steven Gerrard Foundation. Steven teamed up with his old coach and good friend Hugh McAuley for the camp, which was held for the second year running in August. This year the project was sponsored by new Knowsley-based property developer Oriel, which is part of the First Ark Group. The England and Liverpool captain, who grew up in Huyton, supports the camps to give youngsters an insight into a career in
football, develop their confidence and encourage them to make the right choices in life. Steven said: “I’m delighted we are able to be a part of the camp, and help so many children locally. It’s about learning new skills and gaining more knowledge of the game. We are very grateful for the sponsorship from Oriel and the support of HASCL and Knowsley Council and I hope all the kids involved enjoyed it.” Ian Thomson, Executive Director for Oriel, said: “It has been fantastic to be part of this project that offers young people the chance to build on their skills and maybe even start on the path to a sporting future. “Steven is a great role model and it has been a wonderful opportunity for these young people to learn from him about what hard work and dedication can
GREG NAMES AS TOP STUDENT
Congratulations to Sergeant (ATC) Greg Jennings of 1982 (Huyton) Squadron Air Cadets, who has recently been nominated Top Student after attending the SNCO Initial Course held at the Air Cadet Adult Training Facility, RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire. The course itself is aimed at providing the senior NCO / warrant officer with the basic skills to fulfil their duties on squadron as a uniformed member of staff. Beginning on Sunday evening with a briefing on the Sergeant’s mess and basic mess etiquette, the course consisted of various lessons including instructional techniques, child protection, drill, dress regulations and the role of an SNCO (ATC). Throughout the week the students on the SNCO initial course were continuously assessed on certain aspects of the course, leading up to a final assessment of their drill, uniform and instructional technique on Thursday followed by a written exam on Friday. By midday Friday the students had received their personal debriefs by the ATF staff and were presented with their certificates for completing the course by officer commanding adult training facility, squadron leader pelcot. Sergeant (ATC) Greg Jennings was also selected to return to RAF Cranwell to complete the drill instructors course and nominated for the Quinton Memorial Trophy, which is presented annually to the SNCO (ATC) who has gained the top academic results on the SNCO initial course.
achieve.” Oriel will be bringing a range of new homes to the market in Knowsley with a choice of ways to buy including shared
ownership and outright purchase – offering the chance of home ownership to those for whom it would otherwise be out of reach.
Recycling clothes for the fire fighters charity
The Fire Fighters Charity is delivering recycling bags to homes across Merseyside to raise funds for the charity. Bags are being delivered to homes in Liverpool, Sefton, Wirral, Knowsley and St Helens for people to donate their unwanted clothes. Donated clothes are then being collected on behalf of the charity to raise vital funds. The Fire Fighters Charity provides a range of services such as rehabilitation for injured firefighters, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service staff, their family members and retired employees. It has three rehabilitation centres including Jubilee House in Cumbria, Harcombe House in Devon and Marine Court in West Sussex. Other support it provides includes housing support and help for bereaved families. The charity is expected to raise more than £300,000 through recycling textiles
across the UK this year. Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Group Manager Gary Oakford, who is the Service Co-ordinator for the charity, said: “This is a great way for people to get rid of their unwanted clothes and to help to raise funds for the charity. “Throughout the year Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service staff raise funds for the charity through events such as car washes which are very well supported by local people. The help provided by the charity is of great benefit to members of the fire and rescue service community.” Always check that door to door collectors are carrying official identification. Official recycling bag collectors will have an ID card containing The Fire Fighters Charity logo. For information about the door to door collections call the free phone number on 0845 319 6566 or visit the charity website at www.firefighterscharity.org.uk.
October 2013 27
VILLAGES WELCOMES KNOWSLEY APPRENTICE
Villages are committed to providing work and training opportunities to local residents and working with Knowsley Council’s ‘Knowsley apprentice 2013’ have created three new apprenticeship opportunities. In September, Villages Housing welcomed Michael Beckett, Jason Noon and Jessica Balmer to their Stockbridge Village office. The apprenticeships are within three different sections of the organisation; landscaping, finance and surveying. Michael who will be working within the finance team said “I am delighted to be working at Villages, it’s a great opportunity and I am learning new skills to help me in the future.” The apprenticeships at Villages highlight the importance of such training schemes to individuals, businesses and the economy. Sarah Bevan, Initiatives Director at Villages said “We are delighted to welcome the apprentices to the Villages team. “The apprenticeship programme is a great option for young people because it offers them valuable experience and nationally recognised qualifications. We have a strong belief that creating new opportunities for young people in Knowsley is instrumental in improving and developing their future career prospects.”
REHEARSALS BEGIN FOR CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE
Residents enjoy celebrating Older Peoples Day... On 1st October Villages Housing celebrated Older Peoples day with events taking place in Stockbridge Village. The day is a national celebration of the achievements and contributions that older people make to our society and the event held at Roughsedge House proved very popular with residents who were entertained throughout the day with a live musical performance from Geoff Owen. Some of the residents couldn’t resist getting up and demonstrating a few dance moves!
Annie Bishop a resident of Roughesedge House said: “We all thoroughly enjoyed the event, the singer was great and it was a great opportunity for us all to get together and socialise.” It was also a great opportunity for new residents to meet their neighbours. Kevin Milne has recently moved to the area and helped with the day’s activities by creating a quiz for everyone to enjoy, Kevin said: “I am absolutely delighted with my home, it has been so easy to settle into the area and the community is so welcoming and friendly I am looking forward to many happy years here”.
Are You Thinking About Moving? With quality homes, excellent schools, transport links & leisure facilities on your doorstep... Your new home is waiting for you in Stockbridge Village
■ (Front) Connor Kelly, 16 with fellow cast members Lauren Cast, 13, Katie Shaw, 13, Natalie Vaughan, 14, and Jack Murphy, 13 who will all star in A Christmas Carol at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park this Christmas.
The Ghost of Christmas Future has come to Knowsley as young actors from the borough begin rehearsals for their eagerly anticipated Christmas show. Altru and Knowsley Youth Theatres will be performing their own version of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. Tickets for the show, which is on at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park on Sunday, December 15 at 6.30pm, are already on sale. Priced just £6, you can book now by calling on 0151 443 2200. Expectations are high after the success of 2011’s performance of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. This year’s drama is set in Victorian Liverpool, where people are getting ready
for Christmas. Presents are under the tree, candles are lit and snow covers the ground. People are happy, smiling and full of festive cheer – all except for Ebenezer Scrooge. But as Scrooge sits along on Christmas Eve, he has no idea how much one night is going to change his life... forever. Sean Di Sora, Youth Theatre practitioner for Altru, said: “The young people are bringing to life a wonderful story, showing how Christmas could be celebrated by everyone. “We hope the play will bring the community together and the audience will be amazed to see how talented young people from Knowsley are.” So, put December 15 in your diary, and book early to avoid disappointment!
Villages Housin Housing ng Have Homes Available Now 3 bedroom houses hous ses from £92 per week 2 bedroom apartments aparrtments from £101 £10 01 1* per week *Including *I ncluding all heating & service char charges ges
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28 October 2013
REVISED ROUTES FOR MOBILE LIBRARY Knowsley Council’s mobile library is introducing revised routes to its journey across the borough. The library travels around Knowsley five days a week offering a variety of fiction, non-fiction and talking books for all ages. Anyone who is a member of Knowsley’s library service can use the mobile library, and residents who haven’t joined yet can sign up onboard. The revised routes will start on Monday 16 September and have been put in place to enable the service to reach more residents across the borough. New routes include Whittakers Garden Centre in Prescot, Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, as well as Kirkby and Halewood leisure centres. For a full listing of the revised routes, please visit the council’s website www.knowsley.gov.uk (search for mobile library)
PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR KNOWSLEY’S LOCAL PLAN Dates for public hearings looking at the content of Knowsley’s proposed Local Plan – which sets out how the borough will be developed over the next 15 years – have been confirmed. The ‘Core Strategy’ part of the plan was formally submitted to the Secretary of State in July, and the next part of the process is the ‘Examination in Public’, which all Local Plans are subject to. An independent Planning Inspector, Martin Pike BA MA MRTPI, has been appointed to oversee this process. The public hearings will begin on Tuesday, November 5 at the Gallery, Huyton Suite, Civic Way, Huyton, L36 9GD. Full details of the hearing schedule can be found at www.knowsley.gov.uk/localplan For further information on the Examination process, please contact the Programme Officer via email on programmeofficer@knowsley.gov.uk or 0151 443 3077.
DON’T MISS THE DEADLINE The end of the month marks the deadline for Year 6 parents to apply for a secondary school place in Knowsley for their child. The closing date is Thursday 31 October for a secondary school place from September 2014. It’s really simple to apply online, just visit www.knowsley.gov.uk and search for school admissions. The online form can be amended at any point up to the closing date. Paper application forms are also available in the admissions booklet or from the Admissions Team on 443 5142 or 443 5143. Parents who are still undecided are invited to visit Knowsley’s schools who would welcome the opportunity to show them around and tell them more about secondary education in the borough. Our schools provide a range of opportunities, including traditional teaching methods within modern learning environments, engaging curriculum choices and personal tutor providing advice and support. To arrange a school visit please contact the school directly and to find out more about any of our schools log on to www.knowsley.gov.uk
THOUSANDS TURN OUT TO SEE THE TOUR IN KNOWSLEY Thousands of spectators lined the route in Knowsley last month to see Sir Bradley Wiggins win The Tour of Britain’s stage three time trial. Over three thousand spectators saw the start and finish at Knowsley Safari, whilst hundreds more lined the route to cheer on over a hundred of the world’s top cyclists. In addition, millions of TV viewers watched the race live across 130 countries and 13 channels. Despite the weather, Sir Bradley managed to compete the 16km course in under 20 minutes, at 19 minutes and 54 seconds. Schools, community groups, residents and visitors took part in Knowsley’s warm welcome with a range of activities taking place across the borough. School children participated in a range of cycling events at Knowsley Safari, whilst visitors to Prescot celebrated the Tour with a street party along Eccleston Street. Councillor Connor, cabinet member for leisure, community and culture, said: “It really was a spectacular day with thousands of people turning out in
■ Sir Bradley Wiggins with the IG Gold Jersey
the rain to cheer on these top athletes. I hope that hosting The Tour in Knowsley has generated interest in sport among our residents. We have
invested in world-class leisure facilities in recent years in Knowsley, including in an outdoor velodrome and BMX track.”
Preparing our young people for today and the future More than 250 head teachers, principals, careers education and business leaders from across the Liverpool City Region attended the Skills for Growth for Schools Conference at Aintree Racecourse. Throughout the day, attendees were updated on the job opportunities available to young people across the Liverpool city region as well as highlighting their role in helping young people to fulfil their career potential. Representatives from a range of employers delivered presentations on their requirements, both now and in the future, including Getrag Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Peel Ports, Crowne Plaza and Merseytravel. Mayor Joe Anderson opened the conference on behalf of the city region cabinet. He also announced that there will be a major careers and skills show at the International Festival of Business, which is taking place across the region from June next year. More than 6,000 secondary school pupils will be invited to take part in the skills show, where they can get a hands-on experience of the future jobs and careers available in the region. Mayor Joe Anderson said: “I’m delighted that so many people have attended our skills for growth for schools conference, which demonstrates the commitment of everyone involved in educating and
developing our young people and preparing them for their future careers. “I am pleased to announce today the skills show at next year’s International Festival for Business. As the world’s business community visits our region to explore trade and growth opportunities, this provides a fantastic platform for our young people to explore future career options. “We don’t want to just ask them what they want to be – we want to give them a taste of everything they can be!” Today’s event also launched the Advanced Manufacturing Skills for Growth Agreement. This agreement is part of a series of ten documents which aim to
identify the current and future skills needs of key business sectors within the city region. The advanced manufacturing skills for growth agreement is endorsed by major manufacturers across city region and includes a range of actions to raise the profile and understanding of manufacturing as an aspirational career choice for young people. Other agreements in the series include visitor economy, superport, life sciences, financial and professional services. The event has been organised by the Liverpool city region employment and skills board and due to its success, further events are planned.
October 2013 29
HAUNTED MERSEYSIDE WITH TOM SLEMEN
THE ORIGIN OF THE KNOWSLEY WITCHES In 1786, Castle Street was widened to allow more traffic and pedestrians better access to the burgeoning thoroughfares of Dale and Lord Streets. Before the widening of Castle Street, only two carriages could pass one another in its narrow lane. Many old crumbling houses were pulled down by during the redevelopment, and new private properties were erected in their place. An old tenant named Mary Gore was forced to move out of her ancient wooden home on Castle Street, and the little compensation money she was given was stolen from her by the foreman of a group of builders who were erecting Heywoods Bank. Mary Gore cursed the foreman, and went to stay with her sister Isabel, who worked at the Golden Lion Inn on Dale Street. The foreman, whose name was Collins, was told by one of the Irish workmen that Mary Gore was a witch, and that her coven were to be avoided at all costs. The Irishman advised his boss to give back the money he had stolen from Mary or face the lethal magic of her coven. Collins told the Irishman to get on with his work, and ridiculed the old woman and the idea of her being a witch, but, unknown to the foreman, Mary Gore was a witch, and belonged to a coven that was feared across England. Most of the witches of the coven lived at an old house situated in a dark alleyway off Dale Street. When Mr Collins went to the Golden Lion Inn on Dale Street during the afternoon break, he heard more about these witches from an old sea captain he got into conversation with. The captain, a Mr Harrison, said that the witches had a great black metal cauldron which they used to boil unholy concoctions made from the parts of corpses stolen from churchyards. The witches had also been seen flying out of the garret window of the house on brooms, and sailors and captains had even seen the witches flying high above their ships at sea. The witches flew to Wales, the Isle of Man, and some even went as far as Ireland on mysterious journeys. ‘Nonsense,’ said Collins, but he seemed so nervous. The old woman Mary Gore came up to the foreman in the tavern and pointed him out to her sister Isabel, saying: “This is the man who stole my money from me, I have cursed him to die a slow and painful death.” Mr Collins hurled his flagon of ale at the old crone, and she tried to claw at his face, but her sister Isabel pulled back the old
woman and took her upstairs to her room in the tavern. Later that day, the builders left the site on Castle Street and started to travel back to their homes, when a dense fog came creeping up James Street from the Mersey. It blotted out everything, and within minutes, the foreman Mr Collins was stumbling over the mounds of rubble at the Castle Street demolition site as he tried to make his way home. Then people in the area heard a man shouting, and screams – and these sounds seemed to come from above. When the fog cleared on the following morning, no one could find Mr Collins anywhere. Then one of the workers noticed something very strange. There was something on the weather vane of the Exchange building in the distance. Those with good eyesight said it looked like a man, and when they got nearer to the building, they saw it was a man, impaled through his mid-section on the weather vane. A captain unfolded his telescope and looked at the grisly sight, and saw that it was a red-headed man. His blood had trickled down the weather vane and dripped upon the domed roof of the Exchange. A crowd began to gather, and people wondered who the man was. A balloonist named Lunardi had recently flown over the area, and some wondered if the impaled man atop of the Exchange had perhaps fallen out of a balloon, but one of the people who looked through the captain’s telescope at the man who had been spitted on the weather vane recognised him as Mr Collins, the foreman of the Castle Street builders. How on earth had Collins ended up skewered on the weather vane hundreds of feet in the air? He wondered. As the crowd watched, a number of large black birds flew from the north and circled the roof of the Exchange. It was a muster of crows, and they flew at the impaled corpse and pecked at it. To the carrion crows the body of Collins was just a carcass. As the authorities made plans to retrieve the body, the crows tore its flesh apart until it was a bloody mess. At one in the afternoon, a violent thunderstorm struck the town, and as stinging hailstones pelted down on the morbid sightseers who had gathered to see the impaled man, a powerful bolt of lightning hit the weathervane. The body was partly scorched by the lightning and it fell apart and dropped from the weather vane. The legs, torso, arms, intestines, and head bounced off the domed roof and fell onto the crowd.
The extensive bloodstain on the dome remained for several weeks, until the rains washed it away, and the parts of Mr Collins’ body was buried in a pauper’s grave at a local churchyard. The workers continued building the bank on Castle Street, but each day during their lunch break, they would speculate upon how their late foreman had ended up run through by a weather vane. A slow-witted lad named Samuel, who helped out on the building site, said he had seen what had happened to Mr Collins that day. The boy struggled to find words to describe what he remembered in his mind, but finally he told his engrossed listeners: “The women came down and they took him up into the air.” “What women Sam?” one of the builders asked, eager to know more. “Women in black sitting on brooms, they took him up,” Samuel replied, and started to grin as he recalled how the witches swooped down on Mr Collins and grabbed him. Then they had impaled him on the
cast iron weather vane, their punishment for stealing from a member of their coven named Mary Gore. The builders found it hard to believe Samuel’s incredible story, yet they knew the boy never lied, because of his cretinism. Anyway the witches of that coven have descendants all over Merseyside. They descended into families with surnames Bridges, Molloy, Loftus, as well as more familes with commoner surnames such as Jones and McGloughlin. Several large covens settled in the Knowsley area, so perhaps YOU have witch-blood flowing in your veins... • Haunted Liverpool 23 is out in paperback and Kindle format from Amazon.
30 September 2013
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September 2013 31
All Saints Catholic High School ‘my driving force’ says EFC star Michelle Hinnigan
WHY MY FOOTBALL CAREER REALLY KICKED OFF AT SCHOOL IN KIRKBY Michelle Hinnigan, EFC Ladies midfielder - and the first England captain since Bobby Moore to raise a major trophy for an England team - says that she owes her achievements as a semi-professional footballer to the specialist sports coaching and development she was able to access as a pupil at All Saints Catholic High School in Kirkby. The 23-year-old from Kirkby, a rising star at Goodison, says that the encouragement and support of the PE department at her former school gave her the skills and the confidence to pursue a high-level career in sport. Earlier this year Michelle captained her England team to a gold medal following a 62 win over Mexico in the final of the World University Games. “Playing sport professionally or semiprofessionally is not an easy option” says the Salford University Graduate. “It takes hard work, a lot of effort and a huge amount of commitment. “Self-belief is key, and whilst my family was a great support to me it was the PE staff at All Saints who were the driving force in terms of developing my skills and kick starting my career,” she said.
Michelle was scouted when playing for the All Saints Catholic High School football team aged 11. “It’s important for young people to have access to the right sports facilities, but it’s the enthusiasm of the staff who teach them which will really make the difference. “The PE department at All Saints was always exceptional in terms of their knowledge and enthusiasm, and that’s why I came back to the school to work with the PE department as part of my degree course. Michelle left All Saints’ sixth form in 2007 and has just graduated with a 2:1 degree in Physical Activity, Health and Fitness from Salford University. She coaches the All Saints girls’ football teams at the school every Wednesday afternoon. Michelle is not the only All Saints graduate to have gone on to have a successful career in football. Leighton Baines, EFC defender and Craig Noone, Cardiff City FC winger, also attended the school. All Saints is the only school in Knowsley to offer Saturday morning football, and students play as part of the Liverpool Schools league. They compete as part of the Liverpool Schools Tennis League, and are the only school in Knowsley where students can play competitive golf.
32 October 2013
Sport If you have any sports news contact the Sports Desk on 0151 706 7411 or email: thechallenge@merseymirror.com
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SPECIAL TOUR OF BRITAIN REPORT BY HANNAH WIGGINS AGED 12
WIGGINS ON SAFARI AT THE TOUR OF BRITAIN The Challenge recently ran a competition in conjunction with Knowsley Safari Park to find a young journalist to report on The Tour of Britain’s Stage 3, a 16 kilometre time trail held at Knowsley Safari Park, the winner was Hannah Wiggins (no relation to Bradley), here is her report: On Monday, I found out that I had won a competition to be a ‘cub reporter’ at Knowsley Safari Park, reporting on the 10th Anniversary Tour of Britain. It was the third stage of the tour and my hero Sir Bradley Wiggins was tipped to win. We had to arrive early as all the roads around Knowsley Safari Park were closing as part of the course. Driving through the main gates, my mum and I could see the Team Sky Buses arriving right in front of us, OMG Sir Bradley Wiggins was so near! Even so early in the morning the atmosphere was building, with local school children arriving on buses; cycling enthusiasts lining the route, professional teams setting up and the support vehicles getting ready. In the official media centre, we
were given press passes, which enabled us to access all areas… so cool. All the other journalists who were attending were really nice. Marc Gaier from BBC Radio Merseyside gave me some great tips saying “make sure you eat something, you never know when your next break from interviewing will be.” There were lots of cycling related activities going on and we saw Tom Hodgkinson who is a Go-Ride coach for British Cycling, he was getting all the school children to have a go at cycling. It’s such an amazing sport, I ride for Eastlands Velo Club at the Manchester Velodrome and am passionate about it. For the Stage 3 Time Trial there were 104 riders who would set off a minute apart from each other, so we set off to interview
■ Hannah at the press conference
riders from the teams, and stopped to speak to Team IG Sigma Sport who were already warming up. Next to them was team AN Post Chain Reaction where we were lucky enough to talk to Mark McNally a local lad from Crosby who now lives in Belgium. Mark said: (his team)“were there to do their very best”. Team Garmin Sharp assured us that their rider Jack Bauer, was one to look out for (he came 3rd). The Garmin team leader’s advice to me was to expect to make plenty of sacrifices if I wanted a career in cycling. As we made our way back to the press office we passed the Omega Pharma Quick Step bus, the riders inside waved at us… one of them was Mark Cavendish. We stopped and asked if we could have a quick interview and they said yes! Mark was so nice, and really down to earth, he said his tactic for the time trial was “not to crash”…lol. By this time, the rain was torrential so it was probably a good tactic. Mark said that he “expected his best stage to be Stage 8 – the London Stage”, I wished him luck and he signed a water bottle, and autographed a picture for me – result! We ran in the heavy rain back to the press office where Peter, one of the organisers, had a huge surprise for us. We were going to follow a rider around the course in a VIP guest car, amazing! We followed Bernhard Eisel who rides for team Sky Procycling. It was so exciting and the roads were lined with loads of spectators all cheering and willing the riders on. As we drove through the Safari Park, it was so beautiful and we saw a
■ Hannah in the press pen
few of the animals that live there, but Bernhard cycled fast, and we seemed to cover the 10-mile course quickly. At the finish, we quickly jumped out of the car and made our way over to the Sky Procycling bus where Bernhard was warming down – I got to talk to him about his ride and also got some great tips for my cycling future. At 13.33, all eyes were on Sir Bradley Wiggins as he set off. The rain had stopped and he flew off the ramp. He powered around the course, proving, as he said later, that (he is) “in the best shape of his career”. His time was 19minutes 54.20sec, the only person to break 20minutes. This put him in the lead and made him the overall winner of Stage 3 and the favourite to win the Tour. It was fantastic to see Sir Bradley Wiggins so close on the podium, putting on the golden jersey as the Tour of Britain leader and raising his trophy above his head. After the race I even got to
have my first taste of TV reporting, as ITV Granada and Bay TV both interviewed me – so cool. At the final press conference with Sir Bradley you could tell that he had risked everything, given 100% commitment and it had paid off. When the final question came and the Sky press officer said “a final question from one Wiggo to another Wiggo – Hannah Wiggins”, the spotlight was on me…I took a deep breath and said, “You did really well today but could you give us an insight as to when you will return to the track”. The response was positive with Bradley saying that “track cycling is now so competitive. I have started the process of training and would love to aim for a 5th gold medal in Rio”. To win this competition and meet so many of my heroes was fantastic. Now I just need to listen to the advice I was given, work hard and train with 100% commitment. Watch out for this Wiggins!
Prescot Soccer and Leisure Centre nears completion The soccer and leisure centre on Warrington Road, Prescot is nearing completion. The centre’s new fitness suite will be open from 14 October and will be equipped with the latest Life Fitness machines, including treadmills, cross-trainers, rowing machines, bikes, and power-plates as well as a training area with kettlebells, TRX suspension trainers, battle-ropes, medicine balls and much more! Memberships start from as little as £13.50 for peak access, with early bird offers available. The Knowsley Junior league has already chosen Prescot as its preferred location and over the next few weeks we will be setting up adult soccer leagues with online fixtures, results and squad management. Pitches are available to book now with discounts available to FA affiliated teams.
Knowsley Challenge is a free community newspaper to serve the Borough of Knowsley. Circulation 30,000. Editorial Office: 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 706 7411. Advertising, Graphic Design and Typesetting by Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Telephone: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678