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MON 1 – SAT 6 FEBRUARY
LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* Ticketmaster Kids go free with a full paying adult 0844 847 2525* Must book by 24 Dec! Quote ECHOXMAS** *24hrs, subject to booking fees
© Disney
(Mon – Sat Eves)
**Subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, cannot be used on tickets already purchased. Max 4 tickets per booking
news
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news
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WELCOME TO THE BEST OF CHRISTMAS! – A MESSAGE FROM LIVERPOOL ONE
C
HRISTMAS is an exciting time in the city, and Liverpool ONE is no exception. This year we are delighted to be bringing the first ever big wheel to the city – the Liverpool ONE Wheel in association with Radio City – which will give visitors a bird’s eye view of our famous landmarks and iconic waterfront from
Chavasse Park. Santa’s Ice Palace on Paradise Place should delight both young and old with its stunning design and magical atmosphere welcoming children from across the region. Throughout Christmas, families will be able to take a break from shopping and enjoy a 3D Christmas mini-movie, A Tinkerdoodle
Christmas. Lasting 15 minutes, it takes viewers on a magical journey with Santa. The film will be shown every day, adjacent to the Ice Palace. Liverpool ONE is also delighted to be involved with Go Penguins, and will be home to nine Penguins from November 22 when A Winter’s Trail arrives in the city. Look out for our exclusive Cath
Kidston designed penguin and the feather fashionista penguin, the winning design from our competition last month. With a gift-wrapping service, Christmas choirs and entertainment throughout the season as well as late-night shopping every week night from November 26 until 9pm, there really is something for all the family this Christmas at Liverpool
ONE! We look forward to welcoming you and your family over the Christmas season.
Love, Liverpool ONE
PS: Keep checking our website for all the latest news, offers and competitions! Log on to www.liverpool-one.com.
A winter wonderland awaits F
ORGET the Capital of Culture, it’s all about Liverpool being the Capital of Christmas this year. And the city is certainly pulling out all the stops for the 2009 festive season. Liverpool City Council, its partners and the Business Improvement District (BID) have all worked together to create a programme of events that promises to be better than ever. The magic begins today with the arrival of the enchanting Snow Queen to the city. Watch out for her special illuminated sleigh gliding through the streets. With the help of Yeti and the Ice Explorer and other Arctic street performers, the event culminates in the unveiling of the Nativity Scene in the window of Rapid Hardware on Houghton Street and Liverpool’s spectacular Christmas tree in Church Street. Look out for shops and stores taking part in the Shops Up Front programme. Imaginative festive shop windows will greet visitors as they make their way through the streets of Liverpool. Also happening today is the exciting launch of the undercover ice rink in Williamson Square. This unique venue costs just £5 per hour including skate hire, so why not enter into the festive spirit and have a go? You can also enjoy a traditional carousel ride if
COMPETITIONS
you are looking for something a little more sedate. Thursday evenings will never be the same again during the festive period with first-class entertainment lined up each week as carol singers, brass bands and theatre performers bring music and laughter to the city. Watch out for the arrival of a very special flock of feathered friends on November 22. Go Penguins involves more than 100 penguins which will be on parade across the city to dazzle visitors and shoppers. Each one uniquely designed, the penguins will be adorned with a blast of colour and fired with the imagination that made its sister event Go Superlambananas the big hit of 2008. Brought to you by Wild in Art and Liverpool City Council as the finale to Liverpool’s Year of the Environment, this free, public art trail will be a new art experience for all to enjoy. Colonies of penguins will form the trail around the region’s streets and public spaces, retail and cultural institutions, creating a stunning winterscape to raise awareness around the issues of our impact on the environment locally and globally. Over 80 schools have been involved in creating the designs, together with 100 artists and 20 community groups. Keep an eye
IT is always nice to get a helping hand at Christmas, so read on for some great prizes to be won in our fantastic Best of Christmas giveaway: ● Liverpool ONE is kindly donating a fabulous family package. One lucky family will get a trip to see Santa, a visit to the movie Tinkerdoodle and a go on the fantastic wheel. Email sue.kelbrick@liverpool.com with the answer to the following question: How high is the wheel? Put ‘Liverpool ONE’ in the subject box, together with a daytime telephone number. Entries by November 27. ● No Christmas is complete without a family outing to the panto, and this year’s performance of Peter Pan at the Liverpool Empire is set to be quite a treat. For your chance to win a family pass to see Peter Pan on December 12, simply answer the following question: What is the name of the baddie in Peter Pan? Email the answer, putting ‘Peter Pan’ in the subject box together with a contact
out for the trail map, which will help you on your way. Liverpool children are also being invited along to free storytelling events taking place in 17 of the city’s libraries. Tying in with Go Penguins, all the stories will be penguin themed. For further information visit www.gopenguins.co.uk. Father Christmas and his reindeer magically arrive in December, and a special animated display of the polar bearlambanana and penguin scene will make an appearance at Queen Square. From December 5 to 21 the Christmas market comes to Whitechapel, Lord Street and Paradise Street. Find festive treats, from German sausage to mulled wine, or pick up some extra special gifts for Christmas. For further information and Christmas shop opening hours visit www.citycentralbid.com. Winter highlights at the Echo Arena include the dazzling Disney On Ice show Princess Wishes from November 25-29. And with Liverpool ONE offering a fantastic selection of festive activities and events, including the exciting Liverpool ONE Wheel, the enchanting Ice Palace and the family-friendly A Tinkerdoodle Christmas movie, Liverpool is quite simply the place to be this Christmas.
telephone number, no later than November 27, to sue.kelbrick@liverpool.com. ● How about a spot of pampering to de-stress you before Christmas? Portland Hall Spa in Southport is offering an exclusive two for the price of one offer on its luxury pamper days, subject to availability. Simply take this supplement into the spa with you to take advantage of this special offer. Portland Hall Spa is situated at 17a Portland Street in Southport, telephone 01704 537 733 or visit www.portlandhallspa.com. ● Last but not least, fancy £100 to spend in Planet, the perfect place to find a stunning outfit in time for Christmas? Simply email the answer to the following question: What year was Liverpool European Capital of Culture? Put ‘Planet’ in the subject box and send the answer, with a telephone contact number, to sue.kelbrick@liverpool.com. Answers by November 27. Good luck!
SPARKLE: Christmas magic is on its way to Liverpool
news
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The changing face of cosmetic surgery the dreaded sag. But you may also wish to consider photorejuvenation, which can help to improve sun damage, skin texture and red veins. These non-surgical solutions could mean you won’t ever feel the need for a facelift. However, this is the decade when many people consider facial surgery. Blephoraplsty (lifting sagging eyelids or removing eye-bags) can make a big difference to your looks, as can lip enhancement for people who have found their lips thinning with age. Mini facelifts or brow lifts offer an alternative for those who want the benefits of a full face with a less invasive approach.
Fifties Laser skin resurfacing uses a beam of light radiation to destroy the surface layer of skin and stimulate the growth of new collagen fibres. New skin forms which is softer and less wrinkled.
Sixties Silver surgery is booming as the older generation proves that looking good is no longer the domain of the young. New figures from Spire Healthcare reveal three
Look your best, feel sexy and confident – at any age In today’s society we are often judged by our appearance, and so it is little wonder that cosmetic surgery is now extremely common and on the increase. In fact, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons – BAAPS – noted a 5% rise in procedures carried out last year.*
times as many women are having cosmetic surgery compared to five years ago. And men in their 60s are now embracing surgery almost as much as women.** No matter which procedure you consider one rule applies above all others: make sure you choose your surgeon wisely. Check they
According to Mr Chandrashekar, Consultant
suited to you. So to provide some guidance
authoritative spokesperson within this specialist field.
Plastic Surgeon at Spire Liverpool Hospital,
on when’s best to nip, tuck, fill or refine,
this increase is a direct reflection of the rise
Spire Liverpool Hospital has compiled the
in less invasive, more subtle treatments:
following guide to surgery through the ages.
“With techniques becoming more advanced
are registered with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive
Thirties Permanent wrinkles start to
and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).
develop in your late 30s, and non-invasive
Mr Chandrashekar concudes: “Ask to see
day by day it’s now possible to achieve subtle
Twenties Bones don’t stop growing
fillers and botulinum toxin (commonly
before and after pictures of previous
and less invasive results, which help you to
until your late teens, so if you are very
known as Botox), as well as other
patients, and try to meet the rest of the
look younger and healthier, without altering
unhappy with the appearance of your nose,
non-surgical treatments can help keep a
medical team. Don’t be afraid to ask for
facial features or body parts.”
your 20s would be a good time to have a
youthful and fresh appearance. Instead of
more information, and only agree to go
rhinoplasty (a nose job). Skin tends to be
pulling skin tighter in an effort to reduce
ahead with the treatment if you feel
The cosmetic service at Spire Liverpool
more supple during your 20s and can adjust
wrinkles, the facial fillers are injected to
100% happy.”
Hospital includes surgery such as breast
more quickly to the changes made during
‘fill out’ parts of the face to reduce signs of
enlargement, breast reduction, liposuction,
this procedure.
aging – and can also erase unsightly scars
nose reshaping; as well as non-surgical
Breast augmentation is the most common
can relax the muscles and etch away the
procedures. All treatments are carried out
procedure for 20 and 30 year olds across
signs of aging, fading wrinkles and relaxing
by trained clinicians and fully accredited
the Spire Group’s 36 hospitals. Whether
frown lines. Tummy tucks are especially
from acne or chicken pox. Other treatments
tummy tuck, eyelid surgery, facelift and
registered plastic surgeons. Patients receive
you would like bigger breasts or a breast
popular amongst women who have had
a full consultation with their surgeon
reduction, Spire Liverpool Hospital has an
children or who have undergone rapid
where they can evaluate the most suitable
excellent team including one of the UK’s
weight loss resulting in sagging skin around
procedure for them.
leading plastic surgeons, Mr Chandrashekar.
the tummy.
With so many new treatments and
breast techniques and medicine by actively
Fourties Throughout your 40s
technologies available it’s easy to become
participating in National and International
fillers and other non-surgical treatments
*www.baaps.org.uk
confused as to which one might be best
workshops and conferences and is an
could continue to be used to stave off
**Statistics courtesy of Spire Healthcare, December 2008
He keeps up to date with the very latest
For more information on Spire Liverpool Hospital, or for a free consultation, call 0151 522 1805 or visit
www.spirehealthcare.com/liverpool
news
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It’s fun, fun, fun for all the family F
ROM the escapism of Christmas blockbusters to the magical atmosphere of carol concerts and the traditional calls of ‘He’s behind you!’ in Yuletide pantomimes, there’s nothing quite like a Christmas film, panto or show to get you into the spirit of the season. If you’re looking for a way to entertain all the family during the festive break, then a traditional panto is a sure fire way to entertain young and old alike. Liverpool always boasts an impressive array of pantomimes, and this year is no exception. The widely-acclaimed Scrooge The Musical starring Tommy Steele comes to the Liverpool Empire from November 23 to November 28. Featuring spectacular sets, a dazzling musical score and magical illusions by Paul Kieve, the magician behind many of the magic effects on the Harry Potter films, it’s a not-to-be missed musical interpretation of Charles
Dickens’ Christmas classic. Also at the Empire this Christmas is Peter Pan, from December 11 to 16. Fly away with Natasha Hamilton as Peter Pan and Henry ‘The Fonz’ Winkler as Captain Hook, on a spectacular Christmas journey to Neverland. Following rave reviews of his performance in Cinderella last year, Les Dennis returns to the Empire as the panto dame alongside Radio City’s Rick Vaughn as Starkey the Pirate. Meanwhile, at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre from December 10 to January 3, the whole family can cheer on Jack in the classic story of Jack and the Beanstalk. Kids will also love the hapless, comic antics of The Chuckle Brothers in a Christmas Chuckle at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on December 4. From December 1 until January 31, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen
CLASSIC: Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra is putting on a family concert on December 19, to be followed by a screening of Christmas classic film The Snowman is at Unity Theatre on Hope Place, Liverpool city centre. Unity has a history of presenting traditional tales in unconventional ways, and this production is no different. Visually stunning and packed with enchanting music, The Snow Queen takes you to an icy, magical world with goblins, musical snowflakes and singing mirrors. Alternatively, if you’re
STAR CAST: Natasha Hamilton will take the lead this year as Peter Pan alongside Les Dennis as The Dame and Radio City DJ Rick Vaugh as Starkey the Pirate at the Empire Theatre’s panto
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looking for a typically British comedy, then make sure you catch John Buchan’s The 39 Steps, adapted by Patrick Barlow, at The Playhouse, Liverpool from December 3 until January 16. This West End adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller is packed with dastardly murders, doublecrossing secret agents and fast-paced fun. From November 28 to
January 23, Dick Whittington the Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto by Sarah Nixon and Mark Chatterton returns to the Everyman on Hope Street for another season of fun, platforms and festive frolics. Bursting at the seams with dancing, fun and music, this shake rattle ‘n’ roll take on the classic Yuletide panto is sure to prove popular with all the family this Christmas. As well as festive family
pantomimes, the region’s theatres have a diverse range of plays, musicals and performances to choose from this Christmas. Highlights include Christmas Tea Dances at Sefton Park Palmhouse on December 8 and 15; That’ll be the Day – Christmas Special at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on December 11; and LIPA’s Christmas Concert on December 15. On December 19, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra is performing a family concert – Frosty & The Snowman Fly Together. An hour-long event featuring a visit from Santa and Frosty the Snowman as well as all your Christmas favourites; this concert will be followed by a special screening of The Snowman film – a must-see for children at this time of year. With such a diverse array of festive pantomimes, concerts and shows on offer, Liverpool has something to suit all ages, interests and tastes this Christmas.
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Top toys for all good girls and boys THE DREAM DOZEN
THIS year’s Dream Dozen, in alphabetical order, comprises: 1) Bakugan Battle Pack, Spin Master (RRP £19.99) 2) Battle Strikers starter set, Mega Brands (RRP £9.99) 3) Ben 10 Alien Force Kevins DX Action Cruiser, Bandai (RRP £29.99) 4) Bendaroos Mega Pack, Spin Master (RRP £19.99) 5) GO GO Pets Hamsters, Character Options (RRP £9.99) 6) GX Racers Tightrope Terror, Flair (RRP £22.99) 7) Kidizoom Multimedia Digital Camera, V-Tech (RRP £49.99) 8) LEGO Games Minotaurus, Lego (RRP £17.99) 9) Monopoly City, Hasbro (RRP £24.99) 10) Princess Peppa’s Palace, Character Options (RRP £39.99) 11) Sylvanian Families Caravan, Flair (RRP £44.99) 12) Transformers Movie 2 Voyagers Figures, Hasbro (RRP £22.99)
W
HEN it comes to buying Christmas presents for the kids, it can be a very costly affair. But the good news this festive season is that there are plenty of affordable toys to delight your little darlings on Christmas morning. The Toy Retailers Association (TRA) annual ‘Dream Toys’ list, the industry’s official prediction of Christmas best-sellers, only
contains toys priced under £50. Gary Grant, chairman of the TRA, commented: “This year, the toy industry has turned the latest trends into up-to- the-minute concepts. This year’s list also reveals a trend towards nostalgic characters and brands updated with a modern twist. Consumers are reverting back to heritage brands which will last longer than the Christmas season.”
OLD FAVOURITE: Monopoly City
Gary added: “With licensed toys combining the fun and familiarity of popular characters, as well as collectable, pocket moneypriced toys making a big comeback, we are in for an affordable, family-orientated Christmas.”
FAIRYTALE: Princess Peppa’s Palace, above
GAME: Above: LEGO Games Minotaurus and, inset, left, GO GO Pets Hamsters
JOIN THE FAMILY: Left: Sylvanian Families Caravan TERRIFYING: Below: GX Racers Tightrope Terror
FUN: Clockwise, from above: Battle Strikers starter Set; Bakugan Battle Pack; Transformers Movie 2 Voyagers Figure; Kidizoom Multimedia Digital Camera; and, left, Ben 10 Alien Force Kevins DX Action Cruiser
TOP TOY: Bendaroos Mega Pack
Don’t forget, your furry friends like presents, too! OUR pets give us unconditional love all year round, so it’s only fair that we leave our furry friends a little parcel under the tree at Christmas. At this time of year, the pet shops are full of festive goodies so you can find the perfect present for your pet, however big or small. Pets of all shapes and sizes will feel part of the family with their very own Christmas stocking. There are all kinds of delicious treat-filled stockings available for your pet to sniff out. And don’t forget to stock up on your pet’s favourite foods for Christmas dinner. Many shops now offer natural foods which are healthy and nutritious to ensure animals stay in tip top condition. Cats and kittens will be smitten if you treat them to some new toys to get their claws into, providing festive fun while ensuring they get lots of exercise. Some are even filled with their favourite
catnip, creating kitty heaven! And pampered pooches will be hounded for style advice when dressed in this season’s Santa costumes for dogs – or perhaps they’d prefer a pair of reindeer antlers? Or how about getting them a comfy new bed? Pet beds come in all shapes, sizes and styles – for example, the Furrari Bed for dogs from Pets At Home is guaranteed to get tails wagging, but there’s a great range of beds for bunnies and cats too in all good pet shops. And our petite pets are not
forgotten, either – there’s a fin-tastic choice of aquariums and accessories for fish, as well as bowls for your bunny, water bottles for your guinea pig, bird feeders for your budgie or a terrarium for your turtle. Perhaps you can’t have a pet at home but still want to do your bit for animals at Christmas? Why not sponsor a dog for a loved one? Or you could make a donation to your local animal rescue home. There are lots of ways to show our furry friends you care at Christmas time.
N-ICE: Even your smaller pets can join in
PAMPERED: There’s no need to leave your pets out of the fun at Christmas Pictures: Pets At Home
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Woolton Carpets
Advertising Feature
EXPERIENCE: Leading Liverpool flooring company Woolton Carpets has been supplying flooring to generations of families in Liverpool
A local flooring firm you can trust
L
EADING Liverpool flooring company Woolton Carpets has been supplying flooring to generations of families in Liverpool. In fact, the carpet specialist in Garston celebrated its 50th birthday last summer. Over the years, the name Woolton Carpets has become synonymous with quality and excellence in the area, and with more than 1,000 rolls of carpet in stock, next day delivery, a professional fitting service, over 200 choices in laminate flooring and a great selection in plush rugs and vinyl flooring, it’s easy to see why thousands of people put their trust in Woolton Carpets. Last year, the company was awarded prestigious approval from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). Woolton Carpets is one of the only carpet companies in Liverpool to receive the OFT’s stamp of approval, and this fantastic achievement not only recognises the outstanding service Woolton Carpets provides but also enforces a stringent code of conduct the company now operates under. The company’s reputation is second to none throughout the industry and it was even voted the Best Individual Carpet Company in the UK at the National Flooring Industry Awards. The company’s results can be seen in the amount of repeat business and recommendations received at Woolton Carpets. All top UK and European manufacturers are represented in the huge showroom on-site. Boasting a wide range of luxury carpets, the company
CHOICE: The showroom has a wide variety of carpets on offer
stocks every major manufacturer from the UK and Europe, and due to buying in bulk, can offer the best prices for miles around. Brand new in store is a state-of-the-art whipping machine. This revolutionary invention can transform any piece of waste into a useful rug, for a nominal charge, while you wait. And the company is now a stockist of artificial grass – the low maintenance alternative to grass which looks great in all seasons, is always green and involves no mowing – a fantastic option for hay fever sufferers. The grass can be used in gardens, schools and playgrounds, pub gardens, rooftop gardens, golf courses and much more. For further
information visit www.artigrass.co.uk. The company also has some great special offers, including its buy now, pay later option with six months’ interest-free credit for orders over £300 or 12 months’ interest-free credit for orders over £1,000. It really is a one-stop shop for all your flooring needs, so whatever it is you’re looking for, make sure you visit Woolton Carpets – one of the only OFT-approved carpet companies in Liverpool. ● The showroom is open seven days a week, with late opening on a Thursday night. Call 0151 427 9095 or visit the brand new website at www.wooltoncarpets.co.uk for details, or drop by the Speke Road showroom.
news
news
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A magical Christmas celebration A
N Ice Palace, a 3D movie experience and Liverpool’s first-ever big wheel… it can only mean one thing – it’s Christmas time at Liverpool ONE! Liverpool’s premier shopping and leisure destination, Liverpool ONE, has been transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas with the arrival of Santa at his magical Ice Palace and shoppers enjoying a bird's eye view of the city from the Liverpool ONE Wheel. Celebrations began yesterday with a festive extravaganza of Christmas characters all getting the party started. Santa has now opened the doors to his Ice Palace on Paradise Place and is welcoming children from across the region to tell him their Christmas wishes. And of course, no visit to Santa is complete without a gift! On Chavasse Park, Liverpool’s first-ever wheel was also unveiled yesterday. At 60 metres high, the Liverpool ONE Wheel (in association with Radio City) offers views of the city’s waterfront and iconic landmarks, which are guaranteed to be stunning. Throughout Christmas
families will be able to take a break from shopping and enjoy a magical 3D Christmas mini- movie! Called A Tinkerdoodle Christmas, the 3D experience lasts 15 minutes and takes viewers on a magical journey. with Santa as he tries to deliver presents on Christmas Eve – but his new elf Tinkerdoodle causes chaos. The film will be shown every day adjacent to the Ice Palace. Liverpool ONE is also offering shoppers a fantastic gift wrapping service. Situated next to Fred Perry on Manesty’s Lane, the service is available from November 28 until Christmas Eve. Gifts will be wrapped from £2 per parcel depending on the size, helping to take the hassle out of wrapping for you. As well as its exclusive gift wrapping service, Liverpool ONE is also offering shoppers music from Christmas choirs and entertainment throughout the season. Shops are open seven days a week plus from November 26, late-night shopping Monday to Friday until 9pm and Saturday until 7pm, so there really is something for all the family this Christmas at Liverpool ONE.
GO PENGUINS FLY IN AS part of its sponsorship of Go Penguins 2009, Liverpool ONE is playing host to nine stylish penguins looking for a new home among the city’s legendary fashionistas this Christmas. But before the penguins headed for their own corner of Liverpool ONE, the naked creatures gathered at the £1bn project’s water feature on Thomas Steers Way to get themselves fed, clothed and watered in fine style. Look out for the exclusive Cath Kidston-designed penguin and the Liverpool ONE competition winner’s penguin, which will arrive on November 22. Chris Bliss, estates director at Liverpool ONE, commented: “We were looking for something contemporary and stylish and are delighted with the winning design which will be unveiled on November 22.” And Sally-Ann Wilkinson, Go Penguins, added: “We’re really pleased that Liverpool ONE has come on board as a sponsor of this year’s Go Penguins. They are a real asset to the city. “We think the penguins will be more than happy to make themselves at home in the style capital of the North West.”
ROUND UP: Above, the Liverpool ONE Wheel is now up and running. Right, a clip from the animated movie Tinkerdoodle
Plenty in store as Habitat op
S
HOPPING just keeps getting better at Liverpool ONE, with new stores opening all the time. Recent new openings include the toy shop The Entertainer, GIVe (ladies’ fashion from George Davis) and MenKind (gifts and gadgets for the man in your life). Liverpool ONE is delighted to welcome back to the city innovative interiors store Habitat, which is due to open on Wednesday, December 2. The store layout has been designed around the customer. Easy navigation is a key concept, with coloured walkways, clear signage and directory boards ensuring a stress-free shopping experience. The two floor levels will span more than 1,200 square metres. Home accessories will welcome shoppers from the entrance with inviting displays across the ground floor. Furniture and upholstery will be on the first floor, giving customers space to visualise products in their home. Interactive and atmospheric, Liverpool will showcase Habitat’s most innovative store concept to date. Web pods will allow
customers to browse the full collection online, purchasing items through the Habitat website, or comparing different fabrics and finishes while guided by the in-store team. In addition, 42-inch plasma screens will form pointof-sale displays, showing lifestyle photography, product information and special offers. Clean and contemporary, some familiar elements of Habitat’s signature store design will remain in play, including simple modular storage by Tom Dixon and warm grey floor tiles by Porcelanosa. Deep wall colours will be used to give warmth, while large-scale lifestyle photography will be placed at key points across the store to engage customers at eye-level. Throughout much of the store, the building’s 5.5m ceiling gives an imposing sense of space and structure, while in other areas 3m suspended ceilings have been installed to provide a sense of domestic intimacy. Other new stores now open at Liverpool ONE include Whistles and Reiss, and stores to keep an eye out for in the next few weeks are David M Robinson, Ollie and Nic, Jaeger and Hollister.
INNOVATIVE: The new Habitat store i
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n at Liverpool ONE
FUN: Above, The Christmas Tree Fairy is just one of many characters visiting Liverpool ONE this Christmas. Left, an artist's impression of the Ice Palace
pens its doors
in Liverpool ONE
IT’S A GIFT AS Liverpool continues to take its place as the style capital of the North West, Liverpool ONE announces the launch of its exclusive gift card, offering fashionconscious shoppers and foodies access to more than 120 stores and restaurants. With all this on offer, it makes the perfect gift for family and friends. The Liverpool ONE MasterCard gift card is a single-loaded prepaid card
OPENING TIMES that can be used to purchase gifts and services within stores or restaurants located at Liverpool ONE, where MasterCard is accepted. Sleek and stylishly designed, the Liverpool ONE gift card is available exclusively from the Information Centre on Wall Street. There is no charge for the card. The only charge is the amount customers choose
to load onto the card. The card can be loaded from £5 to £500. Up-to-the-minute balances are available online at the website www.getmybalance.com. ● With so much Christmas shopping on offer at Liverpool ONE, do you fancy £200 to spend on whatever you want? Whether you are looking for an extra-special gift for a loved one or an indulgent treat for yourself, Liverpool ONE are offering the chance to win a £200 Liverpool ONE gift card. For more information and to enter, visit the website www. liverpool-one.com/echo.
The Liverpool ONE gift card
Liverpool ONE Wheel: Opening Times: Sunday-Thursday, 10am- 10pm; Friday and Saturday, 10am-11pm £6 adults, £4 children, £5 concessions Ice Palace: Opening Times: Monday-Wednesday, 10am-7pm; Thursday, 10am-8pm; Friday, 10am-7pm; Saturday, 9am-7pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm See Santa and receive a gift, £4.50. 3D movie, Tinkerdoodle: Open from November 19-22, then from November 24-December 24 Opening Times: Monday-Saturday, 10am- 8pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm Prices: £3 each. Family ticket £10 (two adults, two children). Gift Wrapping Service: Open from November 28 Opening Times: In line with retail hours Location next to Fred Perry, Manesty’s Lane Prices: from £2 Advanced bookings available via www.liverpoolone.com for the Wheel, Ice Palace and the 3D movie. £1.50 booking fee per ticket if booked online.
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Give ’em that old razzle dazzle A
S every women knows, no outfit is complete without a smattering of accessories – and that's never more true than at Christmas. Whether you're going to the annual office party or heading out for a spot of festive retail therapy, the shops are filled with a wonderful range of accessories and, no matter what the occasion, there's something to complement every outfit. Perhaps you've just bought the perfect party dress and all it needs are some killer heels? Or maybe you're on a budget and looking to up-date last year's LBD with a gorgeous new handbag or jewellery? Whatever it is, the right accessories can transform an outfit. Key trends for this winter include clutch bags, lace-up shoes, over-the-knee boots and bejewelled or studded strappy sandals. As for jewellery, gold, as ever,
remains one of the most popular choices, closely followed by glunge (that’s a cross between glamour and grunge to you and me), 50s-style pearls, statement necklaces and cocktail rings. Fancy something more extravagant? No problem! Christmas is the one of the only times when a little razzle dazzle is not only acceptable, but more or less compulsory and, from sequined waistcoats to extra-long diamante earrings, pretty much anything goes – just remember not to go too far or you'll risk resembling the Christmas tree. Dressed-up pins are another huge trend and tights are one accessory that no self-respecting woman's winter wardrobe should be without. Whether warm and woolly or sleek and shiny, the cold weather gives us the perfect opportunity to expand our collection and, mercifully, the shops are filled with a fabulous selection of opaques, earthy autumnal shades and vivid bright colours for maximum impact. So whatever you're looking for, remember to dress to impress this Christmas.
GLAM IT UP: Christmas is the perfect time to inject some glamour into your accessories with sparkly bags, dangly earrings and stunning cocktail rings
Pictures: Debenhams, (below) Accessorize (above), and Matalan (inset)
HEAVY METAL: Studs are set to be a huge trend this Christmas and clutch bags (right) are also ‘big’
Pictures: Faith & Next
GROOMING: IT’S NOT JUST FOR THE LADIES IT’S Christmas time and the party season is in full swing. It may be cold outside, but when you go out you need to be looking hot, hot, hot. So men, the message is that the threads are important, but none of that’s going to count for much if the rest of you isn’t gleaming too! And that means a bit of TLC for you. We’re talking thorough male grooming and adequate preparation for that night on the town. Take your shave, for example. You can now get a decent shave from both electric and disposable razors. Modern electric razors deliver high performance cutting of long hairs just as easily as short ones, while minimising skin irritation.
Meanwhile, disposable razor technology has advanced considerably. It doesn’t seem that long since the advance to a dual or triple blade razor was made, but now there are even five-blade razors which adapt to the shape of your face to increase razor glide and comfort. Some even have precision tools attached for beard sculpting, built-in lubrication and other fancy features to reduce friction and skin irritation. Of course, the thing to remember before shaving is to properly prepare for the shave. Using hot towels, or at least rinsing the skin with warm water, will help open pores and prepare the skin better for the shave. Use quality shaving creams to soften bristles and
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then apply moisturiser after the shave to rehydrate the skin and reduce tightness. At one time men would scoff at the girls for buying products just because they’re packed full of essential oils and other natural ingredients. Not anymore, though – those days are well and truly gone. Nowadays it’s no crime for the modern man to be guaranteeing superb grooming results thanks to moisturisers, face washes, shaving and shower gels filled with aloe vera, jojoba, green tea and the like. Hey guys, if it works then why not? In terms of male grooming, at Christmas time you can easily get hold of pretty much everything you’ll need to keep your skin and face looking
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• Remounting, remaking and Ungar Ungar refurbishment of old Jewellers Floral Bands • Specialists in Wedding & Engagement • Valuations and Estimates for insurance Rings • Three year insurance policy available • Jewellery Repairs on Jewellery • Jewellery Repairs - Platinum, Gold, • Engraving Service • Lovelinks Silver and Platinum • Watch straps and batteries • D4 Diamond • Bespoke Pieces • Picture and Name Pendants • Design and Manufacture • Ungar & • We now stock Medical Pendants Ungar • CAD Design Diggles Ltd, 110 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 2DG - 0151 733 4141 JJ. Diggle Ltd, 69A Church Street, Liverpool, L1 1DG - 0151 709 8821
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healthy and refreshed. There is no shortage of gift packs (perfect for going out, weekends away or to freshen up at the office) filled to bursting with the usual to the quite extraordinary. Yes, you’ll be expecting aftershave balms or shaving creams, but how about an exfoliating face scrub, a sports rub or, get this, some foot refresher! These and many other strange and wonderful products are available to make sure you look, feel and smell tip-top this Christmas. There are loads of such products out there for switched-on men who don’t want to rely on products loaded with chemicals. Come on guys – it’s time to reclaim the bathroom!
HAIR TODAY: Men are becoming more aware of the need to look after their skin
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Get her what she really wants F ROM lingerie that doesn’t fit to clothes two sizes too small, perfume that brings you out in a rash, jewellery you don’t like and gadgets for the house – we’ve all had our fair share of unsuitable gifts from the men in our lives. At this time of year, high streets up and down the land are filled with the familiar sight of men desperately searching for the perfect gift for their wife, girlfriend, mother, daughters or sisters. So if you’re struggling to find the ideal gift for the special lady in your life, fear not, because help is at hand. Whoever you’re buying for – be it your nan, mum or wife – it’s essential to remember the best Christmas presents are the ones that show you understand their personal tastes, so before you rush out to the shops in a blind panic, sit down, relax and try to think about how she enjoys spending her time. If she’s always got her head in a book, then show her that you understand her interests and get her a limited edition hardback novel. Or if she loves nothing more than spending a Saturday digesting the fashion mags before enjoying a little retail therapy, then show you understand her
passion for fashion and indulge her with a year’s subscription to her favourite fashion magazine and a voucher for a one-to-one appointment with a personal shopper. Alternatively, if she’s always running around after you and the kids and never has time to treat herself, then show her you appreciate everything she does with a voucher for a top-to-toe pampering session in your local beauty salon or spa. Equally, if her passion is food and cooking, then how about a cookery book by her favourite chef, a voucher for cookery lessons or a meal for two in a restaurant she’s always wanted to try but HIGH TECH: never could afford? Gadgets such as the Sony Another sure fire way to impress is spoiling her Exclusive eBook Reader, above, with something, such as and the HP notebook, below, are make-up, jewellery or ideal for clothes, from a store or modern brand that she loves but girls wouldn’t buy for herself Pictures: because it’s beyond her John budget. Whatever the women in Lewis/ Marks & your life love, the key to choosing the right gift is Spencer to be creative and select a gift that shows you know what makes her tick.
GIFT IDEAS
GLAM: Benefit Celebutante make-up is perfect for girlie girls Picture: John Lewis
PERSONAL: Use your family photos to create a calendar
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COSY: A dressing gown and pyjama set always goes down well Picture: Marks & Spencer
WARMING: Comfy slippers are a welcome gift
Picture: George at ASDA
Achieving the look I
’M sure it’s a tradition almost as old as Santa, but ensuring your home is perfect and sparkling seems to be a must for Christmas morning – at least before the wrapping paper comes off, anyway! People love to have new things around their homes for Christmas, whether it’s a new carpet, duvet sets, cushions, a dining table, everything from spice-scented candles to a new fire surround or sofa. If you’ve got guests staying over during the festive period, or you simply want everything in your home to have a ‘place,’ then now’s the time to start planning if you haven’t already! If you’re after a big piece of home furniture, such as a sofa, then you have to remember it can sometimes take a while to be delivered, so it needs to be ordered now! Christmas may still seem a long way off, but don’t forget businesses get busy quickly so, if you’re planning on getting new flooring fitted, then it’s best going to choose it as soon as possible. Even if you just want to get a couple of rooms in your house in order, then the main
sitting room and kitchen/ dining room should really be the priority. New fire surrounds can be a great way of making your sitting room feel like new,
whether you opt for something modern, such as a plasma-style, or something that adds charm and character, such as a traditional surround with a real fire, you’re sure to find the ideal one for you. If you can’t afford to splash out on expensive furnishings then even just a fresh coat of paint, new plump cushions and throws or feature wallpaper can make all the
difference. Dramatic bold wallpaper is still a ‘musthave’ around your home on one main wall, but be sure to keep the other walls a neutral colour so the room doesn’t look too cluttered. Deep shades of purple and red are making a big impression this season, but keep this colour to your sitting room accessories, such as vases and lamps, which helps to keep costs to a minimum while still creating a new look in your home. In your dining room, if you fancy really sprucing it up then a new dining table is the way to go, whether you’re choosing glass, rustic wood or maybe something unique then it’s always important to check your measurements! Little extras can also make a big difference, such as new table settings, stylish salt and pepper pots, and even a elaborate centre piece, think of artwork too and match your whole room accordingly. Sometimes you have to think not just of the decor, so with the cold weather arriving make sure your home is fully insulted – it’ll save money in the long-run, while also making it cosier.
MAKE ROOM: Create the perfect style in your home this Christmas with a new dining table, and you can use festive colours to complete your decor with a simplistic yet stylish candle holder (inset) Pictures: haloliving.co.uk & Tesco
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A finger-licking party I
T may have seemed like a good idea at the time, offering to host a Christmas party, but with only a few days to go and a limited budget, how can it be done? Don’t worry, it is possible to put on a good spread of food at little notice without having a nervous breakdown. Read on for help... The key to success is organisation, so first of all you need to establish how many people you are catering for. Finger food or canapes is the best option here, and while they can look extremely stylish, often they are very simple and require only straight-forward ingredients. Anything that can be made ahead is a good idea so you don’t have to rush round at the last minute. Make sure you plan for a balanced combination of fish, meat and vegetables, and remember that presentation is key when it comes to finger food. Garnishing is crucial to add that allimportant finishing touch, so have plenty of fresh herbs, colourful salad leaves and slices of lemon and lime to hand. For the base of your canapes, get a variety of different breads including foccacia, bruschetta, ciabatta, French bread and fresh sliced white bread. It is a good idea to have a few bowls of more hearty fayre such as salad potatoes and pasta as well as salads, breadsticks, crisps and bread rolls. Next prepare a variety of toppings from a good range of ingredients. These can include parma ham, sun dried tomatoes, spinach, sardines, roasted peppers, slices of hard cheese, soft cheese, smoked salmon, chives, basil leaves, olive oil, minted lamb, figs, tuna – but not all together!
FESTIVE RECIPES HERE are two classic canape recipes: Devils on horseback Ingredients: 2 chicken livers 3 rashers of streaky bacon 6 fingers of hot buttered toast Black pepper, freshly ground Cayenne pepper Paprika Method: Wash and dry each liver and cut into three. Remove the rind from the bacon and cut each rasher in half. Wrap each piece of liver in bacon and fry or grill for two to three minutes. Place one roll on each finger of toast. Sprinkle with black pepper and a little cayenne and paprika. Bruschetta with tomato and basil Ingredients: 6 or 7 ripe plum tomatoes 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 6-8 fresh basil leaves, chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 baguette French bread or similar 1/4 cup olive oil Method: Remove the skin from the tomatoes and cut into small pieces, removing the seeds, juice and stem. Add garlic, olive oil and vinegar in a bowl and mix. Add chopped basil and salt and pepper to taste. Slice the baguette on a diagonal into about half inch thick slices. Coat one side of each slice with olive oil using a pastry brush. Place on a cooking sheet, olive oil side down, and toast until the bread begins to turn brown. Align the bread on a serving platter, olive oil side up, and place the tomato topping over the bread immediately before serving so the bread doesn’t go soggy.
EASY: Buffet food is quick to prepare and ideal for a party
Picture: Marks and Spencer.
Here’s to a Christmas filled with cheer C HRISTMAS is a fine time to indulge in a tipple or two. Most of us have time off to look forward to, plus friends and family to enjoy it with. So, with the prospect of no work and a lie-in ahead, it’s time to start thinking about just what to stock those cupboards with to entertain your Christmas guests in style. Let’s start with wine. It’s a Christmas staple. Either with food or just a drink with friends, wine usually flows as freely as the conversation. Winter is a good time for enjoying warm, full bodied reds, like shiraz bursting with spice and berry flavours. White wines are refreshing accompaniments to food. Chenin blanc, for example, is perfect with Christmas leftovers, while Sauvignon blanc is great with turkey breast and winter vegetables. And, if you’re planning to celebrate a traditional English Christmas with
some sparkling wine, there’s no need to opt for the Champagne. You can try some English wine! Apparently it is much improved and widely available For something a bit different you could impress your guests with a little pomegranate wine – delicious in cocktails or punch. Don’t forget the beer at Christmas, too. There are loads of great ales around at the moment. They range from refreshing seasonal winter ales to counter rich Christmas food, such as the hoppy, fruity and malty aromas of Pickled Partridge – great alongside cheese, bread and slices of baked ham. Or how about a hearty bottle of Shepherd Neame’s glowing amber Christmas Ale – perfect with sticky pudding – or the awardwinning hoppy connoisseur ale 1698. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a wee dram of the good stuff ! That
means getting some quality Scotch whisky in those cupboards. You can’t go far wrong with a fine single malt, but the choice can seem bewildering, with quite different tastes between varieties and with whiskies being matured from anything between 10 and 50 years. A good tip might be to grab a Single Malt Whisky Experience gift pack. It gives you four different miniature bottles with contrasting flavour profiles; Glenkinchie, Dalwhinnie, The Singleton of Dufftown and Talisker. Even more useful, you get a Single Malt Whisky Flavour Map explaining how light, floral, strong or smoky the different single malts available taste. That way you can match different whiskies to the tastes you enjoy the most. It’s a great way to make sure you get the best from your Scotch this year! Don’t forget to stock up on liqueurs and shorts, too.
You never know what a guest might ask for! Brandy, vodka, gin, sherry, port – you may well need them all. You could also indulge in some luxurious liqueurs. Chambord is a French black raspberry liqueur, made from a blend of vanilla, citrus peel, honey and cognac and great for the party season! Benedictine Liqueur, was created in Normandy by Benedictine Monks in 1510. The traditional recipe marries over 27 herbs and spices sourced including cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon and myrrh – making it the perfect tipple for Christmas. But don’t forget about the non-alcoholic refreshments, either. These days you can even get a hamper filled with the likes of green, peppermint and Earl Grey teas, plus ground and instant coffee along with some hot chocolate for good measure. It’s the perfect way to round off an evening of Christmas tippling fun!
CHEERS: Don't forget the port this Christmas
Photo: Cockburn's Port
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Christmas Party Nights at Everton Football Club Choose from a range of nights from traditional cabaret to festive buffets from £25.00 Per Person Call 0151 530 5251 to Book
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CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS
December 4th & 5th, 11th & 12th, 18th & 19th
3 Course Menu @ £34.50 per person Including disco & live entertainment Arrive 7-7.30pm, meal at 8pm, disco til 1am 37 Aigburth Drive, Sefton Park, Aigburth, Liverpool L17 4JE Tel: 0151 727 7380 www.blenheimlakesidehotel.co.uk Email to enquiries@blenheimlakesidehotel.co.uk
A spicy oasis in the middle of the suburbs, all served up with a friendly smile Our dishes are from far and wide, a selection of meat, fish and vegetarian from Asia, South America and the Middle East.
SHOPPERS BRUNCH2pm to Saturday - Served 11am XMAS LUNCH IN DECEM BER ServedTues - Fri 12pm - 2.30pm 3 courses £12.95 Vegetarian option available
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Booking recommended - Call for details Special occasion/large arge party?We will be happy to cater to your needs
Opening hours:Tuesday to Saturday 5pm-11pm,Sunday 11am-3pm,eve 5pm-11pm 372 Aigburth Road L17 6AE (corner of Mersey Road) Telephone: 0151 - 427 2200
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