Best of Liverpool Magazine, January 2010 by Liverpool Post & Echo

FASHION

PLACES

FACES

FOOD

BEAUTY

HOMES

TRAVEL

Supplement

OF LIVERPOOL JANUARY ISSUE 2010

STORAGE SOLUTIONS Clever ways to de-clutter

MELT THE SLOPES With our ice cool ski wear

NEW YEAR NEW YOU Fun ways to fight the festive flab

Hollywood and

Hollyoaks

WIN

he ind t f h e b o A tour s e n sce n Ice o y a Holid pirit S

We catch up with Scouse soap star, Kent Riley

BEST BREAKFASTS // FREE DAYS OUT // KITCHEN TRENDS TASTE TEST // SKI WEAR // SPORT STYLE // KIDS' SPACE

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Contents

BEST

JANUARY 10 16

OF LIVERPOOL

JANUARY 2010 NEWS 04 TALK OF TOWN

Catching up on the gossip

06 HAPPY NEW YEAR What’s in store for 2010

HEALTH & BEAUTY 07 NEW YEAR FITNESS Top 10 alternative ways to get fit

08 HEALTH & BEAUTY Katie has a go at hypnotherapy

FASHION 10 SHOPPING FOR HER The stylish way to be sporty

12 SHOPPING FOR HIM The cool way to hit the slopes

CHILDREN 14 CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS Bedtime need never be boring again

ENTERTAINMENT 16 THE BIG INTERVIEW Kent Riley and Kyran Bracken

18 BY DAY, BY NIGHT Things to do from dusk ’till dawn

HOME STYLE 20 STORAGE SOLUTIONS Stylish ways to hide your clutter

22 FOOD FOR THOUGHT Kitchen trends for 2010

FOOD & DRINK 24 TASTE TEST

Editor’s Letter HAPPY new year! Christmas came and went in a flash. A good time was had by all in the Best of Liverpool office, although there are a few groaning livers and I’ve managed to munch through my own body weight in Quality Street. But we’ve all returned to work after the festive break with renewed vigour and optimism for the year ahead. Top of my list of new year’s resolutions is lose a few pounds and join some sort of torture, sorry, exercise class - but I can’t stand the thought of a treadmill. So in this issue we have found some really fun ways to get fit from pole dancing to aqua running - as well as sourcing some sassy sportswear so we can at least look the part. Paul comes over all Jamiroquai in his quest to find some cool threads for the slopes and Katie managed to ditch the evil weed after a

session of hypnotherapy. Emma has advice on how we can de-clutter our homes with some stylish storage solutions. Meanwhile, cheeky monkey Sue shows us her creative streak with her attempt at mural painting for her piece on children’s bedrooms. Sarah gets the chance to chat to Kent Riley whose cheeky character in Hollyoaks is about to reveal a darker side... Meanwhile, I swooned and wobbled about a lot whilst trying to interview the skating sensation Kyran Bracken on the ice rink at Williamson Square. We also get a taste of fine dining at the Hilton and have lots of great ideas on free stuff to do this month if you’ve blown all your cash on the January sales!

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Hope 2010 is the best yet!

Michelle

A taste of the Hilton high life

26 BIG BREAKFAST The best start to the day

TRAVEL 28 HEADING OVER TO... The city centre

30 OUT AND ABOUT Stuff to do - for free!

LIVERPOOL ECHO EDITOR Alastair Machray

FRONT COVER SHOT Courtesy of Lime Pictures

MAGAZINE EDITOR Michelle Rushton

DESIGNERS Charlie Hearnshaw

SALES MANAGER Frank Notton

COMMERCIAL FEATURES EDITOR Sally Jones

WRITERS Paul Baker, Sue Kelbrick, Katie McLoughlin, Emma Thompson, Sarah Hooley

COPYRIGHT Best of Liverpool is published monthly by Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales/Liverpool Echo. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

PHOTOGRAPHY Trinity Mirror photographers

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 03

Talk of town THE ART OF REINVENTION

THIS was the theme of the 107.6 Juice FM Liverpool Style Awards with Tracey Bell held recently at the brand new landmark Hilton Liverpool. The event was a celebration of style, celebrity and glamour, hailing all that is cool and fashionable about Liverpool in 2009. It was attended by a plethora of celebrities, nominees and local dignitaries all keen to find out who had made it onto Liverpool’s style radar! The awards ceremony was presented by Liverpool style icon, Natasha Hamilton along with Adam Weighell from the Juice FM Breakfast Show. The awards were voted for by 107.6 Juice FM listeners via focus groups, street surveys and juicefm.com web votes. During the night, a fashion sequence starred models by up and coming designer Philip Armstrong – official designer of Strictly Come Dance Dancing - as well as a catwalk performance from three 107.6 Juice FM listeners who have undergone an eight week body transformation. Liverpool Football Club also launched its latest ladies perfume L 4 Women, as well as a new line of clothing. The winners were: After dark - Echo Arena Bar Award - Alma de Cuba Boutique Award - Cricket Business Enterprise - Kirsty Doyle The Culture Award Liverpool Food and Drink Festival Fashionista Award - Topshop Hotel Award - Malmaison Liverpool Lifestyle Liverpool One Restaurant - Alma de Cuba Salon - Voodou Stylish Scouser - Nicola Roberts Sporting Star - Steven Gerrard Icon - Steven Gerrard Up and Coming Award – Allymac Designs Visitor Award - Albert Dock Retail Award - River Island UK Music award - Take That 04

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

X-FACTOR STAR SHINES Boodles Liverpool and the city’s top shopping destination Cricket teamed up for an exclusive fashion meets jewellery party last month to launch the new season and Boodles’ new collection Velocity. The Boodles Liverpool store was filled with celebrity guests and there was a surprise

fashion show treat for guests. X-Factor contestant Rachel Adedeji, 17, emerged down the spiral staircase catwalk to sing four songs including her XFactor rendition of Beyonce’s If I Were a Boy and Queen of the Night, which she sang and danced to among the crowd of guests, even passing the mic around for the chorus.

GLITZY GATHERINGS Michelle Rushton looks at what the city’s movers and shakers have been up to

GIRLS NIGHT IN

WAR OF THE WAITERS Hollyoaks cast members took over Chester’s Blackhouse Grill to raise money for the Alder Hey Imagine Appeal. Two teams of Hollyoaks’ most popular characters worked as waitresses, bar tenders and chefs in a toughly fought out competition to see which side could encourage their diners to spend the most money. The Hollyoaks ‘War of the Waiters’ event, hosted by Mark Jones, took place at the stylish Blackhouse Grill Restaurant and Bar in Newgate Street, Chester. Guests booked tables on a first come first served basis, there was no ticket price, no raffle and no auction, but half of the diners total spend was donated to charity.

Over 200 stylish guests attended a Girls Night In fashion show at The Hilton recently. The event was organised by the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation in conjunction with Debenhams, the Hilton and Yaffe Fusion Art. Models showcased the latest Christmas collections from Debenhams, and there were hair and make up demonstrations and live

VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR Bestselling author Cecelia Ahern kick started her first global virtual book tour to promote her new title – ‘The Book of Tomorrow’ at Waterstones in the Liverpool One shopping centre last month. Cecelia, who also wrote P.S. I Love You, is currently eight months pregnant and unable to travel, so she

Speakeasies Getting in a New York state of mind at Noble House. The most talked about new venue in the heart of Liverpool’s business district, Noble House fuses the decadence of a 1920s speakeasy with the chic style of a downtown Manhattan restaurant. For underground glamour, head down to Noble’s secret bar La Guarida where you’ll find some of the best Martinis in the city. Sparkly things The range of Thomas Sabo jewellery at Mococo in the Metquarter. This Aladdin’s cave of all things sparkly, which opened in the summer, showcases exquisitely crafted exclusive ranges of silver and gold from the world over. It’s a great place to find that something a little bit different which you won’t find anywhere else in the city and we love the Pandora charm bracelets which allow your to mix and match beads, letters, signs of the

entertainment from diva Nikki Belle and other local celebrities. The night was a huge success with over £3,000 raised for the charity.

zodiac, gemstones and much more - no wrist should be without one. Visit www.mococo.co.uk to see more.

Tea dances (pictured) Kicking our heels amongst the palms in gay abandon at a good old fashioned tea dance. The Palm House in Sefton Park is hosting these regularly afternoon events where you can enjoy waltzing to live music and a good old fashioned cup of tea and slice of cake. For more information call 0151 726 9304.

hosted a virtual book tour via Skype so she could connect with her fans and answer their questions.

Straight teeth Being able to wear braces without looking like a precocious teen in an American flick. Remember when you got that Curly Wurly breakfast stuck in the metal brace your dentist gave you on the way to school? Well that memory can stay distant thanks to Ollie & Darsh and Invisalign. This series of clear, removable teeth aligners enables you to smile with confidence on that big date or while you’re clinching that all-important business deal as well as helping to straighten your gnashers. Visit www.ollieanddarsh.co.uk

JANUARY 10 HEROES PRAISED AT GLITZY GATHERING

CURRY OSCARS The Gulshan Indian restaurant in Aigburth was awarded a gold 4-star plaque after once again being listed as one of the Top 100 Indian restaurants in the country. The Gulshan also finished runners up for the title ‘Best in the North West’ just behind winners the Indian Ocean in Ashton-underLyne, which was one of 11 spice restaurants throughout the UK honoured at the 2009 British Curry Awards held at London’s spectacular Battersea Evolution.

SANDPIT TOUR

Photographs courtesy of David Llewelyn

The Hide&Seek’s Sandpit Tour recently came to FACT as part of the Abandon Normal Devises Festival. Hide&Seek’s events have been a regular fixture on London’s Southbank and the Liverpool leg of the Sandpit Tour gave local game maker, Nick Howard, a platform to showcase his new game, Buffle. Buffle requires players to don a dicky-bow and take on the persona of a butler with the aim to find the aristocrats and anticipate their needs and desires to earn more tips than fellow butlers.

INTERIOR DESIGN COMPETITION International property group Grosvenor teamed up with a trio of top interior designers to launch a major new competition in Liverpool last month. Designers Ben de Lisi, Kate Kingston from Kingston Shaw and Alex Proby, inhouse interiors expert at Grosvenor, lead a panel of industry experts to judge the exclusive competition which saw students from Liverpool John Moores University compete to be named among the best new talent in the UK. The competitors were tasked with designing two studio apartments for an urban professional and a retired couple at Grosvenor’s flagship One Park West building, in Liverpool. The winner will be announced in February 2010.

THE CLOTHES SWAP Sefton Park Palm House recently held its fourth Clothes Swap party - an exciting evening of glamour, glitz and ethically sourced and recycled fashion. Fashion expert and Queer Eye for a Straight Guy presenter, Julian Bennett, hosted the event which gave local fashionistas the chance to acquire fabulous new outfits and to shop at the Pop Boutique with Liverpool’s top designer talent. Collections were on sale from Lady Vengeance, Begin Couture, Ally Burr, Sara Han and Denise Marjorie Mcconville.

WINNING WOMEN Last month business women from across the city came to the Metquarter for a special night of business launches and ladies’ luxury. Liverpool business women defied the economic downturn and stepped out to launch their new businesses at the exclusive networking event with the successful corporate ladies of Liverpool. WinningWomen.co.uk founder Esther McVey said: “Women are certainly getting out there and doing it for themselves, the women exhibiting tonight are all Liverpool business women, some of whom are launching new businesses tonight. Yes the business market is tough, yes the financial environment is challenging but Liverpool women are made of strong stuff!” Kirsty Doyle one of Metquarter’s latest retail additions also gave a 10 minute inspirational talk on her journey going from ‘Markets to Metquarter’ encouraging anyone just starting out in business to keep their determination strong and the hard work pays off in the end.

KATIE COMES TO METQUARTER Fresh from her jungle experience in ITV’s I’m a Celebrity, Get me out of here, Katie Price attended her product signing at the brand new Derby House pop up boutique in Liverpool’s designer shopping centre Metquarter last month. Katie was promoting her KP clothing range and signing autographs for customers who made purchases on the day. The new Derby House pop up boutique is located on the upper mall and offers the new KP range which is available for female adults and children. Jennina O’Neill marketing manager of Metquarter said: “Having seen the collection I think the ladies in Liverpool will be very pleased.”

LIVERPOOL DESIGN FESTIVAL The Liverpool Design Festival was branded a great success by organisers and participants alike. Tara Badami, director of Design Initiative which organised the festival said: “Despite shocking weather over 1,500 visitors braved the elements to visit the Eco Design show and shopped, networked and had fun making their own creations in the workshops. I believe we really boosted the local design economy and have put people in touch with each other that will go on to create new products and new businesses.”

LAST month, Radio City 96.7 recognised some of Merseyside’s true Local Heroes at a moving star studded awards ceremony at the Contemporary Urban Centre. Among the guests at the glitzy gathering attended by over 400 people were Liverpool FC legend John Aldridge, Liverpool’s assistant manager, Sammy Lee, gymnast, Beth Tweddle, Everton Football Club’s, Phil Jagielka, sent a video message, Hollyoaks’ favourites, Carley Stenson and John Pickard, and also British super-middleweight champion boxer, Paul Smith. Entertainment for the evening was provided by the legendary Spandau Ballet, the hugely popular JLS, Beardsmith, The Christians and locally based Platinum Dance Studios performed a fantastically choreographed routine. Radio City presenter John Bishop entertained the audience with his unique style of stand-up comedy.

The ceremony was organised by Liverpool’s hit music station Radio City 96.7 and hosted by Radio City breakfast presenter Simon Ross along with Radio City drive time presenter Neil Fitzmaurice. The annual event is held to honour people in our community who inspire and support others. Radio City 96.7 station director Richard Maddock said: “Radio City’s Local Heroes Awards is always a truly humbling event. It is great to be able to recognise ordinary people alongside local celebrities who have done extraordinary things to make a difference to people’s lives. “We are delighted that so many of our listeners were able to join us to show our appreciation to all of our deserving winners as well as enjoy the fantastic line-up of entertainment.”

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 05

New year The Hilton

REALISE YOUR DREAMS IF you’re already struggling to stick to your new year’s resolutions, a copy of The Guide could be a good investment. This self development book by Dr William Holden promises to show you the barriers stopping you from realising your dreams and explains how to overcome them. “When human beings learn to change their thinking, their lives change to match,” says Dr Holden. The Guide is published by Forecast Publishing 2009, £15.95 paperback (also available in hardback). For further information log on to www.theguide.info Meanwhile, here’s the doctor’s top six tips for breaking down the barriers that prevent people living the lives they’ve always wanted: 1) Not knowing what you want… People don’t fail to achieve in life through lack of talent or ability, they fail through lack of purpose. Set clear goals, write them down. 2) Not wanting it enough… People don’t generate enough burning desire around what they want. Once the desire reaches a certain level, the mind takes over and people become unstoppable.

Picasso

JANUARY 10

A FRESH START Michelle Rushton wonders what the new year may bring… 3) Not believing you deserve a better life… Dr Holden’s response is: “Who are you NOT to have the life you want?” 4) Not taking action… 95% of being able to live the life you’ve always wanted is accomplished by taking the first positive action in the right direction. 5) Not being prepared for setbacks... Failure does not lie in falling over; it lies in not getting up and trying again. 6) Not being able to focus on the end result. You need to have achieved it already in your mind, and bask in the glory, before it’s happened! That fuels the enthusiasm that gives you the energy and creativity you need to succeed.

THE start of a new year brings a sense of excitement, of opportunity - a chance to start afresh. And this year we have the start of a whole new decade to look forward to. Hopefully, we can put the Credit Crunch behind us and move forward. There certainly seems to be a number of green shoots of recovery in the city. The housing market is starting to pick up and Liverpool retail performed well over Christmas. Independent DIY and home store, Taskers, had a particularly fruitful Christmas. Its recent sales figures pushed annual revenue close to £20m. Managing director John Tasker said: “What makes the figures even more pleasing was an increase in overall gross margin of 3% achieved

through better sourcing and negotiation with key suppliers.” Consumers have also been paying cash or using zero percent interest deals rather than buying on credit cards as the UK public has become increasingly cash savvy following the world-wide recession. The legacy of Capital of Culture is still attracting visitors to the city from far and wide having a positive effect on the hospitality industry. Indeed, 2009 saw the creme de la creme of hotels, the Hilton, setting up residence by the waterfront and the Hampton by Hilton opening at Liverpool John Lennon Airport. The city’s arts and entertainment sector just gets bigger and better each year and 2010 certainly won’t disappoint.

The forthcoming Picasso exhibition at Tate Liverpool is a huge coup for Liverpool - with thousands of visitors expected to pay homage to the skilled painter. Meanwhile, Willard Wigan, MBE, the British artist who famously makes sculptures that fit in the eye of a needle will return to Liverpool’s Hard Days Night Hotel this month. And there is a fantastic line-up of concerts and festivals to look forward to - from Leona Lewis to and Rihanna and Westlife. After a hugely successful Year of the Environment in 2009, this year’s theme is the Year of Health and Wellbeing so there will be a myriad of health-themed events to get involved in. Let’s hope it’s the best year yet!

JANUARY SALE

NOW ON The best books for

Liverpool FC, Everton FC, Culture, Music, Nostalgia Bag a bargain from the heart of the city Call: 0845 143 0001 or visit 06

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm

New year fitness

JANUARY 10

TIRED OF THE TREADMILL? Katie McLoughlin discovers 10 alternative ways to fight the festive flab IT’S cold, grey and miserable outside and with your Yuletide over-indulgences now weighing heavy on your bathroom scales, all those mince pies, selection boxes and days spent slouched on the couch watching re-runs of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation suddenly don’t seem like such a good idea. Let’s be honest though, we’ve all started New Year with good resolutions that don’t last the month because we’ve got bored of doing the same workout. If you’re going to make long-term changes to your fitness you’ve got to mix it up a little and add some fun to your regime. After all - variety is the spice of life! Some alternative ways to beat the bulge this New Year include:

achieve fantastic results in weight loss, muscle gain and improved fitness and coordination. For more information contact Dave Maj on 0151 243 8243.

LATIN DANCE To add a Latin flavour to your exercise regime, try the dance class at Club Brazil’s monthly Brazilian nights in Revolution, Mathew Street. Taught by Pilar, an experienced dance teacher from Rio de Janeiro, the class includes a range of Brazilian styles of dancing like samba, lambada, sambareggae and axé. The events also feature Brazilian disco and a live samba band. For details of the next event check out the ‘Latin Liverpool’ Facebook group.

POLE DANCING BELLYDANCING A fantastic workout that’s bags of fun and great for overall fitness, bellydancing is especially good for toning the abdomen and lower back. Classes are held in Total Fitness Liverpool, Northern Perimetre Road (off Switch Island), Bootle, L30 7PT, for information call 0151 527 3600 or visit www.totalfitness.co.uk. Club Brazil dance class

KEISER CYCLING This high-energy indoor cycling class at David Lloyd, Speke, is a great way to burn off festive over-indulgences. An individual cycling workout, keiser cycling is tailored to your own level to develop cardiovascular fitness and burn calories. For details call 0151 494 4000, log onto www.davidlloyd.co.uk or visit David Lloyd, 6 The Aerodrome, Speke, Liverpool, L24 8QD.

armed forces with recognised fitness qualifications, give these classes in Calderstones Park and Sefton Park a try. Ideal for anyone who wants to get fit in a fun, social and motivated environment, the classes, which are suitable for all abilities, feature a warm-up, a full 50 minutes fitness training, cool down and stretch. For details visit www.britmilfit.com or call 0870 241 2517.

AQUA RUNNING Ideal for those with injuries or looking to get back into exercise, this non-impact workout at Greens Health & Fitness, Riverside Drive, involves running in water whilst suspended by a buoyancy belt. For information call 0151 707 6000 or visit Greens Health & Fitness Ltd, 1 Riverside Drive, Liverpool, L3 4EN.

BODY COMBAT

Liverpole pole dance fitness classes

BOX4FITNESS A stress-busting workout that promotes discipline, respect and self-control, the Box4Fitness classes in The Harbour Club at the Crowne Plaza are taught by light welterweight boxer, Dave Maj. Suitable for all ages and abilities, the programme can

Featuring a range of moves from selfdefence disciplines like karate, boxing, tai chi and kick boxing, this class, at LA Fitness, Mossley Hill, offers a highly choreographed, aerobic-style workout. To find out more call 0843 1701074, log onto www.lafitness.co.uk or visit LA Fitness, 88 Rose Lane, Mossley Hill, Liverpool, L18 8AG.

SALSACISE Fun, energetic and fat burning, these Rosemary Conley salsacise classes can burn around 400 calories a go! Taught by Kerry Syverson, the class provides a complete workout for your whole body and is particularly good for toning hips. Classes are held on Thursday

evenings at St. Anthony of Padua Parish Hall, Queens Drive, Mossley Hill, Liverpool. For more information contact Kerry on 0151 287 5103 or email kerry.syverson@rosemaryconley.com

SYNERGY FITNESS CAMPS These workouts are light and fun, involving stretching and lunging, rather than focusing on traditional cardiovascular exercises. Synergy combine stretching and intense body conditioning to create individual workout sessions that get great results through the latest proven training techniques and nutrition advice. To find out more call 0151 227 2892, log onto www.synergyfitnesscamps.com or visit Synergy Fitness Camps, 27 Lord Street, Liverpool, L2 9SA. British Military Fitness at Sefton Park

Photography: James Robinson

A fun way to banish those bingo wings and improve your body’s core, Liverpole’s fitness pole dance classes are taught by experienced instructors with sport, fitness or dance backgrounds. Liverpole’s women-only, six week courses are carefully structured, featuring a warm up, pole dance routine, a section focused on body conditioning and cool down. New courses start in January in Bootle, Fazakerley and Huyton. For details visit www.liverpole.co.uk or call Lindsey on 07912 361 299.

BRITISH MILITARY FITNESS If you fancy being put through your paces by former members of the

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 07

Health & beauty Photograph by Paul Heaps

BEAT THE JANUARY BLUES

OH dear – it’s January! Back to work in the depths of winter, barely a chance to enjoy the daylight before the commute home in the dark. And on top of that, everyone’s got a cold or the flu and they’re coughing and sneezing all over you. If only there was some respite from the January blues. Well, there just might be, if you take a closer look at some easily available complementary therapies and herbal remedies. Taits Health Store on Dale Street in the city centre has been supplying health foods, herbal remedies and sports supplements to Scousers for over 35 years now and offers a wide selection of tinctures, tablets and capsules that can help to prevent or relieve the symptoms of a variety of winter health conditions. Mark Tait (above) has been working at the family run store for 16 years and is an extremely knowledgeable chap on all things health and herbal. “This being the time of year when viruses are rife, vitamin C with zinc is excellent to help your immune system,” explains Mark. “Vitamin D also has immune boosting properties and can help protect you against contracting a virus in the first place. What’s more, it is mood boosting and can help SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) sufferers. “Echinacea addresses the immune system. It is clinically proven to speed up the recovery from a cold by up to two days, and it can also help prevent one. “5HTP is a protein/amino acid that gives your serotonin levels a boost. Serotonin is a mood regulator and can help those with SAD-type symptoms.” But Mark, it’s the new year now and we’ve just spent a week or so gorging ourselves on turkey, Christmas pud and a trifle too much booze. Is there anything that can help us really detox? “A tincture of milk thistle complex can help by supporting the liver and aiding the detox process. And remember, if you’re already on a course of prescription medication, check with your GP before taking any complementary remedies.” Well, there you have it – there’s a remedy for all your common winter ills. So this new year, it’s a case of out with the old paracetemol and Alka-Seltzer, and in with the new herbal tinctures and vitamin supplements. Visit www.taitshealth.co.uk for more information.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

KATIE KICKS THE HABIT Smoker Katie McLoughlin puts hypnotherapy to the test...

TREATMENT REVIEW WITH my 15-a-day habit weighing heavy on my bank balance, not to mention my health, I’ve resolved to quit smoking for good in 2010. Previous attempts have resulted in me rather unhealthily replacing my nicotine habit for a chocolate one, so in a bid to ditch the ciggies once and for all, I’ve booked myself in for hypnotherapy with Neil Foster, managing director of Rodney Streetbased Transformation Hypnotherapy. I’m nervous about the treatment - having never been hypnotised before I don’t know what to expect - but that quickly subsides as Neil, who has four years’ experience as a hypnotherapist, explains how it works. He says: “Your conscious mind tells you that smoking is bad for you, but your unconscious mind has reasons for keeping up the habit - it might satisfy a need, or it may give you something else. “Hypnotherapy changes the way that you code things in your mind, so you have no desire to smoke and you don’t miss it or have a feeling of sacrifice.” The success depends on your commitment to the process, as Neil explains: “The idea of

the first part of the session is to get you committed 100% and remove any doubts you may have about hypnosis and smoking. “Anyone can be hypnotised as long as they have imagination and the ability to concentrate and focus. You can reject any suggestions I give you, so I can’t make you do anything you don’t want to and you can bring yourself out at any time if you feel uncomfortable.” At the start of the treatment, Neil uses cognitive therapy processes to work through what smoking does for me and why I have the habit. He uses neuro-linguistic programming to help me change my behaviour and my perception of smoking, and then progresses to hypnosis. To get the best results from hypnotherapy you don’t need to be deeply unconscious just in a light trance. It’s a bit like when you’re half asleep and half awake first thing in the morning. It’s a very calm and serene feeling, and, whilst initially I found it hard to relax, I soon find myself completely chilled and sink deep into the leather chair. Neil sits opposite and through headphones he plays tranquil music and talks through

FITNESS FAVOURITES WHEN a new year starts, many people resolve to have a whole new look. Others are after a whole new body! That’s why fitness DVDs are flying off the shelves at stores across the country at

this time of year. From special get fit and have fun routines, to celebrity fronted workouts that hope to help you look as slim and trim as your favourite TV star. Here are five of our favourites:

DAVINA FIT Big Brother presenter, Davina McCall, returns with a new DVD, ‘Davina Fit’. It promises to be all about getting fit and staying fit, using routines that make toning up and burning fat “fun!” See for yourself with Davina Fit, RRP £19.96 from 2 Entertain.

WHERE IS IT? Transformation Hypnotherapy has offices on Rodney Street and St Mary’s Street, Liscard.

WHAT DOES IT DO? The company specialises in hypnotherapy and neuro-linguistic programming to treat a wide range of conditions including addictions, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder and weight.

CONTACT Transformation Hypnotherapy, 88 Rodney Street, Liverpool, L1 9AR. Telephone: 0845 643 0167. www.transformationhypnotherapy.co.uk

suggestions that are personalised according to what we discussed earlier, to help me think about smoking differently so that I change my behaviour and kick the habit. The hypnotherapy takes around 45 minutes. After the treatment I feel completely relaxed, very calm and indifferent to smoking. More importantly, it’s been a few weeks since the treatment and I haven’t smoked since.

BOLLYWOOD DANCE BLAST All about having fun, this DVD makes you dance the calories, carbs and cares away to an infectious Bollywood beat. £14.99 from Acacia.

CREAM IBIZA DANCE WORKOUT Cream Ibiza Dance Workout takes you through workouts backed by a mix of house, club classics and anthems from Pitball, Livin’ Joy, Calvin Harris and more. £19.56 from 2 Entertain.

THE BIGGEST LOSER: NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Trainers and contestants from reality TV series, The Biggest Loser demonstrate workout routines that can help shed those ‘bingo wings’ and tone bums and tums everywhere. £17.99 from Lions Gate Home Entertainment.

EA SPORTS ACTIVE MORE WORKOUTS Make your home workout interactive with ‘Active More Workouts’ for the Wii. It gives you the benefit of a personal trainer in a box who will help you stay on track to reach your fitness goals. £24.99 from EA Sports.

JANUARY 10

LULU’S GOT SOMETHING TO ‘SHOUT’ ABOUT! SCOTTISH songstress Lulu is delighted to announce that John Lewis Liverpool will now be stocking Time Bomb her anti-ageing skin and body care collection. Lulu says: “I am thrilled to be stocked in my favourite department store! Going to John Lewis with my mother was such a treat and it is so exciting to see my very own skincare collection on the shelves now!” There comes a time in every woman’s life when she has to pull in the heavy artillery, stand up and fight the good fight against ageing, all guns blazing. Expertly developed after years of research and development, Time Bomb is the ultimate capsule skincare collection to combat maturing skin. Its formulae are strategic weapons designed first and foremost to eliminate skin’s most lethal enemies… sagging, thinning, dryness, wrinkling and dulling of the skin. Lulu adds: “I really believe the anti-ageing battle is one you can win with Time Bomb in your private arsenal! I have received so much interest over the years in my skincare regime so I decided to share my hard-won secrets with the world. “This range is a blend of the very best skincare and professional treatments I have found over many, many years of research.” From the most recently launched Trouble Shooter Neck, Jaw and Chest Firming Cream to the beauty regime staple, Take-Off Time Cleansing Cream, Lulu’s Time Bomb covers all your antiageing needs from start to finish. Every product has its own strategic objective… like heatseeking missiles they single-mindedly focus on a major target and help eliminate it. The Glory Days Day Cream and Flashback Night Cream have been engineered to seal in key moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and essential oils. Push back those enemy lines with the Time Bomb Blast to the Past Dermabrasion to gently remove dry, dull skin to reveal a fresher, smoother and more youthful surface underneath. Lulu’s Time Bomb collection is now available in John Lewis Liverpool, Liverpool ONE, 70 South John Street, L1 8BJ. For more information visit www.lulusplace.co.uk

SONIA HAS IT NAILED INTERNATIONAL nail art technician, Sonia Jesson has manicured the mitts of a number of high profile celebrities from Jessica Alba to Kate Blanchett. And now Herbert of Liverpool has built Sonia her own nail bar within his Bling Bling Building on Hanover Street where you too can receive the celebrity treatment - from nail extensions and

natural wraps to French polishes and pedicures. Sonia who hails from Australia, learned the art of creating perfect nails in her native Sydney where she managed the Complete Nail bar, co-owned by actress Nicole Kidman. Her clients included Hollywood A-listers such as John Travolta. “He enjoyed a nice buff” reveals Sonia!

HELP TO GET IN SHAPE

We have a signed photo of Lulu along with a Time Bomb Glory Days Day Cream (worth £24.47 for 45ml) and Flashback Night Cream (£29.36 for 45ml) to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, simply email magazine@liverpool.com (stating Lulu in the subject box and including your name and daytime telephone number) with the answer to the following question: Which country does Lulu come from? Deadline: Friday, January 15

Then she met her British hubby Scott who was travelling through Australia. She came over to Merseyside to join him and was working in a beauty salon in Hoylake before joining Herbert’s talented team of beauty therapists in Liverpool city centre. Now she has her own Celebrity Nails bar where she specialises in creative manicures and nail extensions. Sonia reveals an exciting new concept in nail art: “We have just introduced a Minx Nails, a new range of semi-permanent nail varnish,” she explains. “It goes on like a transfer and lasts up to six weeks - then grows out with the nail,” she adds. “It’s great for long nails and comes in 50 colours with lots of metallic shades to complement this winter’s make-up trends including silvers and golds. “There is also the Effects range which allows you to change colours and put a shimmer over them.” For more information telephone 0151 709 7834 or visit www.herbertofliverpool.co.uk

WIN

WELLNESS LUNCHES LIVERPOOL’S leading dental boutique, Ollie and Darsh has teamed up with two high profile businesses working in the health and fitness industry to encourage people to get healthy. Fitness and conditioning company, Synergy, and nutrition experts, Wellness First joined forces with the award-winning private dental clinic to introduce a series of health and wellness lunches for corporate businesses in the city. Each 40 minute showcase will provide companies with practical advice to show them how to achieve a healthy body and mind, that will lead to a more productive workplace and healthy, happy employees.

GREENS Health and Fitness is set to get the people of Liverpool into shape for 2010, thanks to over 70 classes a week and a one to one weight loss programme. The well-known health and fitness brand, has added to its impressive list of facilities to persuade more people to feel the burn ahead of their impending New Year’s resolutions. Its new weight loss diary programme has been introduced to encourage new members to educate themselves on nutrition and diet as well as traditional workout timetables and one to one personal training sessions. The weight loss programme provides a diet and exercise plan to help members reach their goal by choosing the best route for their lifestyle. With more than 70 classes a week, a 25 metre swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms, a beginners gym and ladies only suite, people of all fitness abilities can get into shape at their own pace with no pressure. The experts at Greens are keen to ensure everyone feels comfortable and with the help of the experienced staff, can reach their personal goals in a safe and healthy environment. And if all of the hard work gets too much, you can always unwind with some of the other facilities available at the gym. A coffee lounge, brasserie and a health and beauty salon are all available for members to make the most of - as long as it doesn’t affect all of your hard work!

KICK START A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

IF your New Year’s Resolution is to get healthy then make sure you pop along to the Festival of Health and Activity and kick start a more active lifestyle. To launch the Year of Health and Wellbeing 2010, the event is being held this Sunday, January 10 at Lifestyles Tennis Centre at Wavertree Sports Park from 10.30am until 4.30pm. There are lots of free, fun activities to try, for all ages. You can try your luck on a trampoline, practise your tennis strokes or take a guided tour of the park with the Liverpool Park Rangers. Feeling a little less adventurous? Treat yourself to a free neck massage or take in the Tai Chi demos! Younger visitors will have the chance to enjoy some storytelling, arts and crafts, bracelet making, X-bikes, golf and much more. This is a free, fun and informative festival for all the family celebrating awareness of healthier lifestyles. Come along with the kids for an exciting day of interactive activity and learning. For more information, telephone 0151 522 9362 or visit www.festivalofhealthandactivity.co.uk

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 09

Shopping for her Rocha Sonas racer back vest, £16 from Debenhams

New year,

new sportswear

Puma hooded top, £65 from freemans.com

Check out what you should be wearing at the gym this January WITH detox-fever and that whole ‘new year, new you’ vibe gripping the nation, it’s no surprise that gym memberships receive a massive boost in January. But whether you have good intentions or not, the new year is a great excuse to replenish the sports gear in your wardrobe. If you still need a little gentle persuasion to get you back into the gym then surely using it as an excuse for a bit of retail therapy is a great incentive? Cover the bases with practical jogging pants or shorts, along with a good sports bra. Plus you’ve also got a reason to grab some new trainers, maybe a hoodie, a new sports bag and a training jacket (just in case you decide to take the fitness regime to the streets). And remember, if you’re feeling less inclined to venture outside to the gym on a cold weekend in January, you can stretch out in your comfy new gym clothes, and let the couch take the strain…

Rocha Sonas hooded jersey, £25 from Debenhams

Animal Snapper back pack and water bottle, £25 from Debenhams Rocha Sonas lotus puff sleeve tee, £18 from Debenhams

BARGAIN HUNT Katie McLoughlin susses out your sales strategy THERE’S something about January sales that makes us all go into ‘I’ve gotta have it’ mode. Whether it’s the prospect of saving money or simply the adrenaline of fighting your way through the New Year crowds to bag the best bargain - the allure of a cut-price deal is impossible to resist for most. You only to have to see the opening of a new Primark store to see how much we Brits love a bargain; when the Liverpool store opened in 2007 crash barriers were erected and hundreds of savvy shoppers queued for hours to get their hands on the super-cheap clobber. The post-Christmas sales are traditionally a time when seasoned shoppers showcase their most hardcore commitment to consumerism - from jostling with one another to get that half price dinner set (even though they don’t really need it), to camping out overnight to be the first in line when the department store opens its doors. So if you’re going to get the most out of this year’s sales and not come home with a dress two sizes too small again - it pays to plan ahead and know which shops to visit when.

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As any fashionista worth her Louboutins knows, long gone are the days when sales start on New Year’s Day, with the post-yuletide bargain bonanza often starting from Boxing Day onwards. So it pays to keep an eye on which stores start slashing prices and when - particularly this year when many shops may discount stock earlier than usual because of the recession - so keep your eyes peeled for the first signs of sales adverts and diarise the dates. Signing up to retailer’s email newsletters and

websites like www.bragitup.com, which sends out weekly emails rounding up the latest discounts and bargains to be had, can also help you to stay one step ahead of the masses in the sale stakes. If you’re savvy and discerning with your purchases - and not seduced by the heavily discounted price tags on things you’ll never wear or use - the post-Christmas sales can be a great way to update your wardrobe and home for a fraction of the usual cost. For those keen to bag a bargain, the city has a tantalising array of January sales to explore. To get the most value, stick to items that won’t go out of fashion too quickly such as furniture, household items, beauty products, classic clothing and accessories. If you're buying clothes, shoes or accessories - make sure you’re aware of the upcoming trends to ensure your sartorial purchases will see you through both this season and next. And, to avoid a fashion faux-pas - never-ever buy something that doesn’t fit - simply because it’s a good deal. With your bank balance already significantly dented by the festive season, you should always hit the sales with a clear idea of what you need to buy and think carefully about whether you really need it or not.

JANUARY 10 YOUR WARDROBE FRIEND OR FOE? Katie McLoughlin picks up some style tips from image consultant, Mary Errington

NX Sport Joggers, £14, NX Sport Active Vest, £10, NX Sport Training Jacket, £65 all from Next

Adidas fitness pants, £35, and training jacket, £50 from freemans.com

WE’RE all guilty of making the odd fashion blunder from time to time and lurking deep in the back of most people’s wardrobes there’s usually a fashion faux pas or two. New Year is a time for changes, so in the spirit of the season, it’s time to detox your wardrobe, learn what’s right for you and start January with a fresh sartorial slate. Merseyside-based image consultant, Mary Errington, specialises in helping clients look and feel fantastic by teaching them how to dress to impress, advising on which colours and styles emphasise their features and how to manage a wardrobe, so they never need to have one of those ‘I’ve got nothing to wear’ moments again! Mary, who is originally from New Zealand, says: “The New Year and the start of a new decade is the perfect time to get that wardrobe into shape.” To take a critical and realistic look at the clothes you have, Mary recommends taking absolutely everything out of your wardrobe and drawers and sorting into three piles: 1. Clothes that fit and make you look and feel good. 2. Those that need cleaning and/or repair. 3. Clothes that haven’t been worn for two years, that don’t fit, are in the wrong colour, aren’t flattering or you don’t like.

Animal Adelaide T-shirt, £20 from Debenhams

Asics pace knee pants, £30 from Debenhams

Puma commander trainers, £45 from Debenhams

With the third pile placed firmly in the bin or given to a charity shop, next Mary recommends putting the first pile back into your wardrobe; and repairing, cleaning and replacing items from pile two that you really like and will wear so that you can easily see what you have and identify where the gaps are. She says: “It’s important to assess your clothing needs according to your lifestyle. If you spend 50% of your time at work, then 50% of your clothes should be allocated for work. “Think about tops and bottoms to get maximum wear out of your clothes. Aim for five tops to go with each bottom half. However, that doesn’t mean two bottom halves need 10 tops with clever planning many of your tops will work with more than one lower half garment.” To get real value from your wardrobe, Mary suggests investing in the key items you wear regularly. She advises: “You should spend the most on those things that you wear most often like suits, jackets, coats, shoes and bags. They will look better for longer and the general finish and attention to detail should be better. “You should also calculate the cost-per-wear of items - a £150 coat, for example, works out at just 30p per wear if worn 50 times, whilst that ‘fab’ £150 dress you wore twice, works out at £75 per wear!” A firm believer in the power of style, Mary adds: “Looking good makes you feel good which leads to improved self-confidence and self-esteem. This is not a vanity! It’s vital for our personal and professional development and success in life. As a rough guide you should aim to spend between 10 and 15% of your salary on your wardrobe. “Finally, sale or no sale apply this rule – love it madly, need it badly or leave it for someone who does!” For more style advice contact Mary on 07766 466 688, email mary@maryerrington.co.uk or visit www.maryerrington.co.uk

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Shopping for him

JANUARY 10 Snug hooded jacket from Puffa - in denim look with teak lining, £150 from Blacks

THE

PISTE-Y

BOYS

Paul Baker checks out the ski and snow wear for men that will melt the slopes this season RESS to ski this new year for the ultimate in men’s winter fashion. These eye-catching items are just as likely to be seen on fashionable streets as the pistes of San Moritz. So, whether you’re hitting the slopes at Vald'Isère this winter, or you just want to be noticed around town, you need to be wearing the best winter clobber when the weather

turns icy. Now, it’s not all about the Jamiroquai look when you get dressed up for the snow! Granted, when you combine woollen hats, bearded men and miles of snow, it is a look that can work. But perhaps you’d rather go for the appealingly retro James Bond look, with stylish and timeless ski wear and quality winter jackets that, while good for

everyday, are spot on for upmarket ski resorts. Then there’s the essential snowboarder cool. It may look grungy, but this gear is seriously fashionable, especially if you’re planning to shred some powder this winter. So grab your board or skis, don your jacket and winter boots and get ready to carve up those slopes with the best of them!

Devil’s Brigade sweat – full zip, hooded sweater with Devil’s Brigade inspired design, £49.99 from Oakley Winter snow gear, from Helly Hansen www.hellyhansen.com

Arctic woven shirt – woven plaid shirt with a winter quilted lining, £89.99 from Oakley

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Picture courtesy of Helly Hansen

Porsche Adidas jacket with Gore Comfort Mapping technology, £679 from Gore-Tex

Deep stretch beanie – classic stripe winter beanie hat, £12.99 from Oackley

Mantaray Pervavian trapper hat, £25, nylon four pocket jacket with fur collar, £85, Swordfish Seven Eye Battered leather boots, all from Debenhams

Lumberjack earflap hat – faux fur earflap beanie, £24.99 from Oakley

SLOPE OFF THE winter ski season is upon us. So now that you’re kitted out in the best snow gear around, you need to jet off and find that untouched piece of perfect piste. No matter if you are chasing the thrill of being the first to carve across miles of fresh powder or you’re more interested in the apres-ski, there are no end of top destinations for you to consider. So whether you’re a skiing purist, a die-hard snowboarder, or just a newcomer wanting to see what all the fuss is about, there are wintersports destinations to suit. If you’re after a resort suitable for beginner or novice skiers then the French resort of Les Arcs is a popular choice with 11 slopes suitable for beginners and seven ski schools. The Pyrenean resort of Soldeu in Andorra offers reliable snow, gentle slopes, low prices and one of the best ski schools in Europe. St Moritz offers a true luxury ski lifestyle. So pack the salopettes, skis and snow boots and escape to a real wonderland. While there, why not take up residency at Badrutt’s Palace (pictured right)? It’s one of Switzerland’s most luxurious hotels

and has been specially tailored to make the most of the Engadine valley’s 350km of pristine slopes. It’s great for serious snow buffs, eager novices or those who fancy a slice of the glamorous St Moritz lifestyle. Non-skiers can get lost in the designer boutiques or spend a winter’s afternoon around the lake before returning to Le Grand Hall for a warming hot chocolate before an indulgent night of apres-ski. Another option is a self-catering ski-chalet from www.holidaylettings.co.uk. From Andorra to Canada, there is fantastic accommodation available to ensure you have an unforgettable winter break with family or friends. America’s Rocky Mountains offer excellent winter sports locations and great ‘home from home’ accommodation, such as the Wild Iris Guest House – an old miner's cabin in an historic village. With such breaks you’ll be living just a short walk from the ski slopes, plus there will be bars and restaurants aplenty. Whatever you’re after from a wintersports holiday, the wide choice available means you’re sure to find the perfect snow-filled break.

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Children’s bedrooms

KIDS ONLY! Sue Kelbrick looks at imaginative ways to decorate your child’s bedroom WHETHER your child is 12 months or 12-years-old, they will have their own distinctive personality and their bedroom should reflect this. It is important for children to feel that they have their own space in which to express themselves so try and include them in the process of decorating their room as much as you can.

It is a good idea to pick a theme so you can decorate the room around a single idea. Whether it’s pirates, princesses, boats or butterflies, there is a wealth of ideas, concepts and designs out there, so do your homework and let your imagination run wild! Here are a few ideas to give you some inspiration:

Juicy Fruits raised bed, £295 from Aspace. Telephone 0845 872 2400 or aspace.co.uk

Toddler boys’ room, featuring the Scrapbook range at Mamas and Papas Ltd

AND SO TO BED…

Peppa Pig PJs, £12 from Bhs

Sue Kelbrick checks out nightwear for cute kids everywhere EVERY parent knows that bedtime can often be something of a battlefield when it comes to getting their little angels into bed. A great way to encourage kids that bedtime can be fun is by kitting them out in some funky nightwear that they’ll actually look forward to getting changed into. Bedtimes need never be boring again!

Pack of two pyjamas, £10 from woolworths.co.uk

Zebra print slipper, from £10 from Bhs

Spotty sleepsuit, £5 from Mini Mode

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Blue robe, from £8, blue pyjama set, from £9, pink robe, from £8, and pink pyjama set, from £9, all available from Tu at Sainsbury’s

Children’s dressing gown, £6 from Matalan

JANUARY 10 Little girls’ pink paradise, featuring the Scrapbook range at Mamas and Papas Ltd, telephone 0845 268 2000 or visit www.mamasandpapas.com

TRIED AND TESTED As the mother of a very particular two-yearold, I knew that we would certainly be giving Mural by Numbers, the brainchild of interior designer and mother of two Sarah Hodgkins, a serious run for its money. The idea is simple enough - transfers that you trace onto the wall and then fill in with paint. There are loads of designs to choose from including fairies, princesses, space ships and pirates, but it was obvious that my little monkey should have her very own little monkey, so that’s the design we went for. When I first saw the instruction sheet I worried that it seemed a lot more complicated than I could cope with but when I was actually doing it, a step at a time, it was incredibly simple and it was wonderful to watch the design coming to life on the wall. Depending on your creative abilities, you can personalise the design and add your own ideas but if, like me, you are somewhat lacking in the artistic department, just stick to tracing the design and filling it in and you won’t go far wrong. And what was the verdict from the toughest judge of all, my two year old? ‘Wow!’ was her first reaction and since then she keeps running into her bedroom and pointing at her very own little monkey, so I think that says it all don’t you? For further information on Mural by Numbers email magic@muralbynumbers.co.uk or call 01908 543 330.

Canvas name letters, £18 from Artylicious. Telephone 01943 884 177 or artylicious.co.uk

SNUGGLE UP No longer just for grannies, hot water bottles have come a long way and with so many funky designs out there, they are hot property right now.

This Pixie House hot water bottle is as cute as anything, £14.99 from gifttogo.co.uk

What could be better than a teddy bear that keeps you warm? This Woodland Trust hottie heats up in the microwave, £8 from Dorothy Perkins

For little girls (and big girls!) check out this Miko Cat Warm and Cosy hot water bottle, £15 from Boots

Make sure your hot water bottle is as on trend as your wardrobe with this funky skull and crossbones design, £7.95, from thepresentfinder.co.uk

Have a look at this fabulous cup cake hot water bottle, £5 from Matalan

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

The BIG interview

speak to me and saying that she'd like to represent me over there!” Grasping the opportunity, Kent then landed a lead part with Oscar-winning actress Patty Duke in the American film re-make of The Patty Duke Show, before heading back to the UK and starring in children’s series Weirdsister College, Family Affairs, ITV's Footballers’ Wives, and even finding time to gain an acting degree from LIPA. Quite a résumé - so how does it feel having so much success at a young age?

“Liverpool has an incredible theatre life, and you get an unbelievable buzz being on stage and getting reactions or applause from the crowd, it’s amazing.”

The life of Riley With a juicy storyline on the horizon, Sarah Hooley puts Hollyoaks’ Kent Riley under the spotlight… E’S taken centre stage at the London Palladium, acted alongside an Oscar-winning actress and landed a top role in Hollyoaks - and all by the age of 25 - so it’s little wonder that Kent Riley sounds happy. Taking time out for a quick reprieve during the Chester-based soap’s busy filming schedule, it takes less than 30 seconds to realise Kent’s as good natured, funny and cheeky as his on-screen counterpart, sports science graduate, Zak Ramsey. But chatting about his up-coming storyline it appears that his normally affable nature may be about to take a different turn. “I always say too much and end up getting into trouble,” he laughs, remaining resolutely tight lipped about

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his forthcoming plot. “But what I can tell you is that I have a good storyline coming up and that there may be a little bit of a shift in Zak’s personality…” One of the soap’s best-loved characters, Kent first joined the Hollyoaks’ cast as Zak nearly six years ago before making a reappearance in 2006 and for the past four years has been winning over viewers with his quick wit and trademark Scouse humour. Kent says: “He’s an honest and cheeky character - even though he might not be the sharpest knife in the drawer - and that makes him very likeable. At the moment I think he’s feeling a bit lost after finishing his degree too, which is probably something that people can relate to as well.” A proud Liverpudlian, the actor grew up in Lydiate and despite his tender years, this

isn’t his first brush with fame. Notching up an impressive array of accolades, Kent says that he started acting from a young age and “caught the bug” after joining the National Youth Music Theatre. Soon after, the talented youngster went on to win the role of the Artful Dodger in the show-stopping musical Oliver!, aged just 13, at the London Palladium. A personal ambition of Kent’s, the part saw him perform alongside comedygenius Barry Humphries and his star potential was soon spotted by an American agent who by luck was in the audience whilst on holiday. He says, slightly bemused: “Even saying that to you now, it was probably one of the most surreal moments of my life. It was like a wind-up really, someone from America coming back stage to

“I've actually never thought of it like that before, but yeah I suppose I’ve had quite a bit of success and done all right not that I’m Macaulay Culkin or anything!,” he jokes modestly. However he does remember the first time that he realised he was famous. “My mate rang me and said ‘I've just done a crossword and the question was who is the actor that plays Zak Ramsey in Hollyoaks and I’ve just had to fill your name in’. I was quite impressed with that,” he chuckles. And with big aspirations, backed up by a steely determination Kent’s future only looks set to get brighter. He says: “I’d really like to work in America, and do good British films by directors like Ken Loach or Shane Meadows – I’m a big fan of his. I’d do anything that’s kind of interesting; gritty; natural and real and a bit different. “I’ve always wanted to work in Liverpool at the Everyman or Playhouse as well and do a more serious, contemporary play. Liverpool has an incredible theatre life, and you get an unbelievable buzz being on stage and getting reactions or applause from the crowd, it's amazing.” But while he might have his sights set on silver-screen stardom, Kent does admit that’s there’s no place like home – or at least his beloved Liverpool Football Club. “I'm an avid Liverpool fan and really enjoy going to the game. I’ve been on the waiting list for a season ticket for 13 years as well – so they best get the ground sorted quick! Or if anyone’s got a season ticket they don’t want anymore, can you let them know that I’ll have it?” he laughs. You can catch Kent in Hollyoaks, 6.30pm Monday to Friday on Channel 4 and 7pm Monday to Friday on E4.

JANUARY 10

King of the rink Michelle Rushton meets Spirit’s ice skating star, Kyran Bracken SNATCHING the ball from the scrum and swiftly passing it up the field, Kyran Bracken never imagined that in a couple of years’ time he’d be swapping the rugby pitch for an ice skating rink. But after winning ITV1’s Dancing on Ice, the former England Rugby International and MBE has been well and truly converted. These days, he can be found twirling around the ice, head to toe in lycra, performing toe loops and delayed axels, with a bit of body popping thrown in for good measure! The scrum half wowed audiences and experts alike when he first stepped on the ice back in 2007 to take part in the smash hit ice dance show. He won the final on March 17 2007 after a performance which included the required element of ‘flying’ on wires and a final performance of Bolero. Since then, the sport has got under his skin. He says: “Skating is my new passion. I’ve appeared in Holiday on Ice’s Romanza, which was an amazing experience being part of such a professional group of lovely people. I’ve now set up my own skating tour, Kyran’s Ice Party and currently own rinks in Jersey, Isle of Man and Guernsey set up for public skating.” And soon Kyran will join the cast of Holiday on Ice’s new show Spirit when it makes its debut at the Echo Arena Liverpool at the end of this month. Directed by Dancing on Ice head judge and Olympic gold medal winner Robin Cousins, Kyran is excited to be performing alongside some of the best ice skaters in the world. But he’s also really looking forward to returning to his home-town. Born in Ireland, Kyran came to Merseyside as a toddler and grew up in Rainhill, attending St Edwards School in West Derby. Aged 13, he earned a rugby scholarship to Stonyhurst School in Lancashire, where fellow 2003 Rugby World Cup winners Will Greenwood and Iain Balshaw also went. Kyran started his rugby career with Waterloo RFC, then Bristol before joining Saracens in 1996. He made his international debut in 1993 playing for England against the All Blacks. During his rugby career Kyran notched up 51 international caps and was part of England’s victorious 2003 Rugby World Cup squad. Now living in North London with wife Victoria and three sons, Charlie, Jack and Lochlan, he recently took time out from his busy schedule to re-visit Liverpool. We caught up with him at the ice rink at Williamson Square where Kyran and his ‘Spirit’ skating partner, Suzanna Dagger, took to the ice to

entertain shoppers during the festive season and give them a sneak preview of the show. Kyran said: ‘It’s fantastic to be invited back to perform with Holiday on Ice in the city where I grew up. “Just getting off the train and walking here to the ice skating rink brings back so many memories. I can feel my accent coming back! “The city has changed so much. The station has really improved and I’m looking forward to performing in the state-of-the-art arena. “I’m having a wonderful journey through ice skating. Taking to the Echo Arena ice in January is going to be very special indeed. Holiday on Ice are leaders in what they do. They know exactly how to excite, entertain and enthral a family audience.” Holiday on Ice and Spirit offers a complete entertainment experience for all ages with an international award-winning set, dramatic scene changes, creative lighting and a dazzling collection of more than 350 extravagant costumes. Skaters tumble from the sky in amazing, airborne gymnastics and spiral and dance on the ice with dynamic energy, performing some of the most dramatic lifts ever choreographed in a Holiday on Ice production. Kyran adds: “It’s amazing to watch. The show charters a spiritual voyage from east to west through the four elements, fire, air, earth and water. I’ll be skating alongside some brilliant skaters. “It’s so far removed from what I used to do, putting on the sequins and fake tan, but I am hooked. I have my own portable ice rink and my kids are skating now too they can jump and spin - they’re fearless!” Holiday on Ice presents Spirit will be staged from January 28-31. For tickets visit www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400. Best of Liverpool has teamed up with the Echo Arena to offer one lucky reader a family pass (two adults and two children) to see Holiday on Ice - Spirit. Another winner and their guest will win a VIP tour including the chance to meet Kyran Bracken and a back stage tour behind the scenes. To be in with a chance of winning either of these prizes, email magazine@liverpool.com (stating Spirit Family Pass or Spirit Tour, depending on the competition you would like to enter, in the subject box and including your name and daytime telephone number) with the answer to the following question:

WIN

What is the name of Kyran Bracken's ice skating partner in the Holiday on Ice - Spirit show? Deadline: Friday, January 15

ONES TO WATCH Jepson, the band begged, borrowed and saved to fund the album themselves and with its tales of everyday life and love, it promises to warm even the coldest of hearts. To order your copy of 'By the Water's Edge' visit www.myspace.com/sparkwoodand21

Sparkwood&21 Likened to the love child of early REM and an upbeat Smiths, Liverpool alt-folk rockers, Sparkwood&21 has just released its debut album - ‘By the Water’s Edge.’ Made up of four close friends, Sparkwood&21 is steadily earning a reputation as one of the best life affirming bands to emerge from the city in recent years and describes the album as majestically melancholic. Produced by Jeff

Voodou - Phill Gallagher Already one of Liverpool's star stylists, Phill Gallagher, art director at Voodou on Bold Street can now add yet another string to his bow after being nominated for North Western Hairdresser of the Year at the prestigious British

Hairdressing Awards 2009. The only stylist from Liverpool to be nominated for the award, Phill joined the Voodou team from a top London salon just over 18 months ago and with past clients including Kate Moss, Paris Hilton and Liz Hurley, it's no surprise that he's quickly becoming one of hair's hottest property in Liverpool. To book an appointment with Phill call Voodou, The Colour Specialist on Bold Street on 0844 445 7889.

(as featured on BBC’s The Choir), and study at the London College of Music and is performing with Positive Impact, an established Motown group. Danny has a number of shows in the pipeline for next year but if you can’t wait that long, check out his new material on www.myspace.com/dannysharples1

Danny Sharples Rising music star Danny Sharples will be on hand to chase away our post-Christmas blues with a selection of new songs this January. Originally from Liverpool, 20-year-old Danny is currently recording a number of new soul, R&B and pop tracks, and despite his tender age has already racked up a number of accolades. Starting his musical career with the Liverpool Youth Choir, Danny went on to sing with Sense of Sound

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Things to do, places to see

JANUARY 10

Keep the party going right in to 2010, Emma Thompson uncovers the line-up for January

BY DAY

BY NIGHT

AFROMODERNISM On January 29, Tate Liverpool is set to unveil a major survey exhibition, Afro-Modernism: Journeys through the Black Atlantic, which will reveal how black artists and intellectuals have played a central role in the formation of modernism from the early 20th century to today. The exhibition features works by Romare Bearden, Edward Burra (pictured above: Harlem), Aaron Douglas, Ellen Gallagher, David Hammons, Isaac Julien, Wilfredo Lam, Jacob Lawrence, Glenn Ligon, Wangechi Mutu, Chris Ofili, Helio Oiticica, Uche Okeke, Pablo Picasso, Tracey Rose, Kara Walker and others.

STRICTLY ADELPHI

BRITISH SUPERCROSS

Join the Adelphi Hotel for a Monday afternoon tea dance with live music. Don't worry if you can't dance, everyone's there to learn something new. On January 25 and February 8, enjoy fun and friendly instruction in ballroom, line, sequence and Latin… a bit of everything! The afternoon tea dance is between 1.30pm - 4pm, priced at £5 per ticket.

The British Supercross Championship is returning to the Echo Arena for one night only on Saturday, January 23, at 7pm. Defending Supercross Champions Mike Brown from Tennessee and Britain’s Carl Nunn will be back in action to defend their respective pro titles. Log on to www.echoarena.co.uk for details. For a chance to win a pair of tickets simply answer the following question: Where is Round 4 of the British Supercross Championship being held on January 30? Email your answer along with your name and number, by January 14, to magazine@liverpool.com, with Supercross in the subject box.

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Focus on the bride, at 10am on January 18 you have the opportunity to learn the essential practical skills of bridal photography at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. The course is suitable for absolute beginners and accomplished photographers. Wedding dresses and a model will be available for the practical session from 10am-1pm under the guidance of award winning photographer Martin Birchall. Tickets £50 per person per session available now from the Cathedral Shop 0151 702 7255 or via www.cathedralshop.com. For samples of Martin Birchall's work visit www.martinbirchallphotography.com

NEW SKILLS Merseyside Maritime Museum has glass painting for beginners, where you can create your own glass ornament in the workshop on Monday, January 11 from 11am to 1pm. Suitable for seven years-plus. The National Conservation Centre has mosaics for beginners, where you can learn some of the skills and techniques to create your own mosaic panel on Tuesday, January 12 from 1pm to 4pm. Or learn felt making techniques on Wednesday, January 20. All are suitable for seven years-plus, and are free but with limited places.

GO VINTAGE On Sunday, January 24, the Crowne Plaza Hotel will be hosting one of the largest Vintage Fashion and Textile fairs in Liverpool, organised by Decorative Fairs. A wonderful array of vintage items with 50 stalls offering thousands of items with prices from a couple of pounds to several hundred, there's something for everyone. Visit Crowne Plaza Hotel on Speke Boulevard, L24 8QD, from 10am to 4pm. Admission £3.

Photograph: Eric Richmond

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2 The Empire Theatre is set to bring razzle dazzle back to the stage in High School Musical 2 Live on Stage, from February 1 to 6. School’s out and the East High Wildcats are diving into the enchanted world of Lava Springs Country Club, managed by Mr Fulton. HSM 2 Live on Stage features all the muchloved characters and hit songs, including What Time Is It and You Are The Music In Me as well as some awesome dancing and an amazing live band. We have two family passes to give away for the February 1 show, email your answer to the following question, by January 17, to magazine@liverpool.com including your name, number and HSM in the subject box.

WIN

FUNNY MONEY WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND From January 20 to 30, the Empire is showing the mesmerising and moving tale of Whistle Down the Wind. The youthful Swallow discovers a mysterious man hiding in her family’s barn. When she asks for his identity his first words are ‘Jesus Christ’... it’s as if her prayers have been answered. While the town are searching for a fugitive escaped from jail, the town’s children make a pact to protect their new found saviour. This year Jonathan Ansell, who won the heart of the nation in X-Factor’s G4, will make his musical debut in the Lloyd Webber masterpiece. Tickets from £10.50 to £34, log on to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

HATTON & BRUNO Q. In HSM 2 Les Dennis is playing the manager at the Lava Springs country club where the teenagers are employed for the summer, but what's his character's name?

the Philharmonic Hall on Hope Street, this acclaimed show is a hilarious glimpse into the life of the Hitman. Part stand-up, part in conversation, as Bruno questions Hatton, it's both fascinating and entertaining, and a rare opportunity to see these two wonderful sporting characters up close and personal! Tickets start at £25, visit www.liverpoolphil.com

Spend an evening with two of Britain's most-loved boxers, as Frank Bruno and Ricky Hatton meet face to face. On Thursday, January 14, 7.30pm at

Starting January 29, the Royal Court brings comedy, Funny Money, to the stage. When Danny Perkins picks up his briefcase getting off the 86 bus he discovers £2m in cold, hard cash. Enough money to change your life forever. Now Danny just needs to persuade his wife to be his sister-in-law, a policeman to be his brother and his best friends to be Australian nudists. This new adaptation will have you rolling in the aisles. Visit www.royalcourtliverpool.co.uk

GHOST STORIES Encounter a truly terrifying theatrical experience at the Liverpool Playhouse starting February 4. Ghost Stories is a spectacular 80 minutes that will chill and thrill in equal measure... you'll be sleeping with the light on! Be warned Ghost Stories contains moments of extreme shock and tension, and is unsuitable for those under 15 or in late stages of pregnancy. Visit www.everymanplayhouse.com

MUST DO MUST TRY… Liverpool’s new fringe theatre, The Lantern Theatre, which opened its doors late November 09. Tucked away on the first floor of the old Blundell Street Works, the Lantern was founded by members of the local theatre company, tiny Giants Productions, who have established a 10 year history touring educational theatre across the UK. Showing until February 6, is The Snow Queen, an enchanting tale of friendship, love and magic. Also check out Merlin's Apprentice on February 13. Log on to www.thelanterntheatre.co.uk for details.

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MUST HAVE… A relaxing massage at Orrell Park Therapy. Offering a range of services from reiki to physiotherapy, facial rejuvenation and reflexology, qualified therapists provide reassurance and advice so you get the treatment you need. Orrell Park Therapy also offers help with weight management, to stop smoking as well as health checks and counselling in a private and confidential setting. Visit Orrell Park Therapy, 65c Moss Lane, L9 8AE, call 0151 284 4435 or log on to www.orrellparktherapy.co.uk

MUST REMEMBER… To be inspired at St Georges Hall with a concert by Ewa Kupiec, one of Europe’s most dedicated interpreters of contemporary music. On February 3, at 7pm the RLPO’s celebration of Polish music would be unthinkable without an evening of Chopin. Who better than Ewa Kupiec – the Chopin Academy graduate whose performances of Chopin offer unparalleled originality and insight. Tickets cost £16, log on to www.stgeorgesliverpool.co.uk for information.

MUST SEE… Neil Campbell in concert at Unity Theatre, Hope Place, on February 4 and 5. Liverpool based composer and classical guitarist Neil Campbell has been in the local music scene as a solo guitarist for many years and will now perform some intimate concerts, including special guests adding cello and soprano. Neil Campbell has released a series of critically acclaimed albums; Particle Theory and Ghost Stories, and last year staged a series of high profile performance events. Visit www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk for details.

OUR VOUCHERS WILL HELP THE ECONOMY . . . YOURS! Valid at all Liverpool Restaurants from Jan 3rd 2010

Buy a burger from our Angus range and get another burger from the range for the same or lower price free. Present voucher before ordering. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Not exchangeable for cash. No photocopies. Subject to availability. Voucher valid from January 3rd 2010 at all Liverpool Restaurants. One voucher per person. Certified Aberdeen-Angus is a Registered Trademark of the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society. ANGUS PRODUCTS ARE MADE FROM PURE BRED ANGUS OR ANGUS CROSS BEEF. ™ & C. 2009 Burger King Corporation. All rights reserved.

*Product may be cooked in the same oil as chicken and fish products. Buy a burger from our Royale range and get another burger from the range for the same or lower price free. Present voucher before ordering. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Not exchangeable for cash. No photocopies. Subject to availability. Voucher valid from January 3rd 2010 at all Liverpool Restaurants. One voucher per person. ™ & C. Burger King Corporation. All rights reserved.

*Buy an adult meal (excluding Hamburger, Cheeseburger and Breakfast meals) and receive a Kids meal free. Refer to Menu Board in restaurant for Adult Meal and Kids options. Angus products are made from pure bred Angus and Angus Cross Beef. Certified Aberdeen-Angus is a registered trademark of the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society. Present voucher before ordering. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Not exchangeable for cash. No photocopies. Subject to availability. Voucher valid from January 3rd 2010 at all Liverpool Restaurants. ™ & C. Burger King Corporation. All rights reserved.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 19

Home style

JANUARY 10 Monaco Range of 10 white high gloss units, £1,299, from Premier Furniture Company, 89 Rocky Lane, L6 4BB, call 0151 707 7999, log on to www.premierfurnitureco.net

Habasco dark brown teddy storage bins with lids, £7.99 and £14.99, from Taskers, Long Lane, Aintree, call 0151 525 4844, visit www.taskersonline.com

Pack it in

Storage boxes, small £12, medium £16, large £22, from Matalan

Hand crafted and painted, children’s wooden pirate toy chest, £149, from www.beckyandlolo.co.uk

Emma Thompson lifts the lid on smart home storage YOU may be all New-Yeared out but starting 2010 with a stressfree and clutterless home could be just what you need. Tidy home = tidy mind! I'm not suggesting you clear out all your rooms, but finding the right places for all your belongings, whether it's bills and nik naks or DVDs and books - there's storage solutions for all. Instead of trying to cram everything into the odd drawer, maybe it's time you invested in some new storage and organised your items - easier said than done I know! For bills, one solution is fancy shoestyle boxes, meaning you can keep the paperwork handy without it piling up on the table.

If it’s chic statement storage you're after then wall units are becoming increasingly popular giving you the option to stow away numerous DVDs and CDs, along with books and anything else you don't want on show. If you've got little monkeys running around the house then finding funky toy boxes is essential to maintain some kind of order in your home. Toy storage which resembles a toy itself will encourage the energy-packed cherubs to simply pop their toys back into it at the end of playtime, in theory! Here's a handful of fabulous storage solutions to help your home feel a tad more stressfree this year...

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN Emma Thompson 'cheques' out some funky piggy banks JANUARY is traditionally the month when we tend to give our finances an overhaul. If you're planning to look after your pennies this year, invest in one of these stylish piggy banks.

Red heart shaped money jar, also in pink, £6.99 from the British Heart Foundation

Handmade leather pink elephant money box, £8.99, from Shared Earth on Bold Street, www.sharedearth.co.uk

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Silver Bling Piggy Bank, £16, from Utility on Bold Street, www.utilitydesign.co.uk

Ceramic J-Me Her Money Box, £12.50 from John Lewis

A 3-Series oak effect cube unit, £49.98, from B&Q

Solid polished sheesham with brass banding; captain money box, £29.99, and crew, £12.95, from Nauticalia at Britannia Pavilion, Albert Dock, www.nauticalia.com

Home style

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Home style

JANUARY 10

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Michelle Rushton sniffs out some stylish kitchen trends for 2010 MUCH more than just a place to cook, these days kitchens are the hub of the home, with modern kitchen designs incorporating family living and dining areas as well as the obligatory fitted units and worktops. But if yours isn’t easy on the palette, why not make it your new year’s resolution to revamp your kitchen space? Before you invest in a new kitchen, it pays to take time to consider what style you will opt for, as your new units will have to last you for a few years, so you will want to guarantee you create a space that you enjoy cooking and spending time in as a family. And it’s always a good idea to talk to the experts. Jaimie Hillier, studio manager, at Capricorn Kitchens in Liverpool, predicts that traditional kitchens will make a comeback this year. “Oak, painted, shaker and framed kitchens are all featuring heavily in the trade press,” reveals Jaimie. “Excitingly these are being featured with curved doors, options on colours picked by the customer and that eclectic ‘country kitchen’ feel.” Open-plan kitchens offer versatile living space and, according to Jaimie, will continue to feature heavily in new build properties, extensions and

refurbishments. This has also influenced designs in extractor fans. “Extractors have been redesigned to rise out of worktops rather than hang from ceilings thus not impeding the space feel,” he explains. “With new builds becoming increasingly air tight, which is good for the environment, these extractors are unobtrusive but very effective.” And when it comes to lighting, LEDs are still leading the way. Says Jaimie: “LED lighting is becoming more and more requested. I am pleased to say that Capricorn Kitchens is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by introducing LED lighting into our Birchall Street showroom and is pleased to offer some very attractive options to our customers.” As for gadgetry, the kitchen must-haves for 2009 were wine coolers and cleverly integrated TVs in cupboard doors. However, this year, people will be paying more attention to their appliances. Jaimie explains: “Appliances are becoming more and more effective with steam and conventional cooking in one oven, induction ceramic slide control hobs and specialist inline hob combinations for that more individual taste like an induction wok hob to help

customers create restaurant style exotic. “Something else that is up and coming is boiling water/filtered water taps. These do away with the need for a kettle, filter the cold and hot water to remove impurities and are very economical.” Jaimie and his business partner, Philip Oliver, certainly know their onions when it comes to kitchens. The company has been manufacturing high quality kitchens in Liverpool for over 35 years. Its ‘NONAME’ range of kitchens is supplied rigid in a choice of nine carcase colours to ensure your new kitchen will have that exclusive tailor made look and feel. With over 55 years’ experience between them, Philip and Jaimie are the ideal people to turn your kitchen dreams into reality. Jaimie says: “Using our state of the art Computer Aided Design package, we can work with your ideas and create a

Jaimie and Philip from Capricorn Kitchens

detailed floor plan based on your requirements to help you maximise your room space to make it practical, easy to use and look stunning. “We can then show you in full colour what your brand new kitchen will look like including the correct worktops, appliances, sink and taps.” For more information visit the showroom at 5 Birchall Street, Liverpool L20 8PD, telephone 0151 933 9633.

Advertising feature

WOOLTON CARPET CENTRE Don’t miss the January sale IF you're planning to splash out on new carpets for your home but don't want to break the bank - don't miss the January sale at Woolton Carpet Centre. This month, Liverpool's leading flooring company will be hosting a huge clearance sale to make way for its new spring ranges. So take advantage of the opportunity to snap up some fabulous bargains with massive discounts on carpets and flooring to suit all styles and budgets. What's more, you can enjoy a whopping 25% off all rugs too. But apart from the prices, there's nothing cheap about the stock at Woolton Carpets. The carpet

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warehouse on Speke Road has been specialising in flooring for over 50 years and has built up a reputation for quality and excellence. It really is a one-stop-shop for all your flooring needs with over 1,000 rolls of carpet in stock, and with 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 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. So 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.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 23

Food&drink

JANUARY 10

Taste test Michelle and Mike enjoy a decadent night out at The Hilton WORKING full time and parents to a small toddler, my partner and I don’t get much chance to dine out in fancy restaurants - unless they have a Wacky Warehouse attached. So when a generous friend offered to babysit on my other half’s birthday, we decided to push the boat out and sample the fayre at the city’s much talked about new boutique hotel, The Hilton. With Mike suited and booted and my goodself relishing the chance to get dolled up, with my heels and quilted clutch instead of a change bag full of nappies, I felt so decadent walking through the entrance doors into the glamorous reception area. We headed for the chic Exchange restaurant on the ground floor which enjoys views of Chavasse Park and oozes style with its simple and elegant decor, designed to reflect Liverpool’s rich maritime heritage. We were greeted by a smiling Maitre d’ who showed us to our table. Our waitress then brought us a selection of breads, dipping oils and olives to nibble on while we perused the menu. The à la carte menu offers contemporary North West cuisine featuring local dishes and fresh local produce. Vegetables are sourced from family-run farms in and around Preston, fish is supplied by C&G Neves of Fleetwood, game comes from the Pennines, and the Goosnargh chicken from the edge of the Ribble Valley. We made our selections and the staff swiftly brought us our drinks. Sadly, I was the driver so still mineral water was the order of the day, but the birthday boy was suitably impressed with his pint of Staropramen. “It’s full of life, they obviously look after the lines,” informed Mike who works in the pub trade. We didn’t have to wait long at all for our starters. I ordered the Formby Wood wild mushrooms with rocket and Ribblesdale cheese tart (£6.95). The tart was light and fluffy, while the mushrooms and cheese was full of flavour. Meanwhile, Mike ordered the free-range ham hock

terrine (£6.50) which he remarked was very fresh. This came with a lovely little jar of piccalilli and a parsley salad. “You can’t fault the presentation,” said Mike. Indeed, plenty of imagination has gone into serving the food. My main course, Traditional Scouse, came in a cute copper saucepan with a lamb chop on top and little dishes of beetroot and pickled red cabbage. The Scouse offered a real flavour of Liverpool made with tender, tasty Lancashire Ridings lamb and the waitress informed me that the chef’s secret ingredient is HP sauce! Mike chose the 16oz T-bone steak from the grill menu, priced £24.95. All steaks are Rose County Lancashire beef, aged for a minimum of 32 days and came with slow roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, huge onion rings, and Bearnaise sauce (for an extra £1.95) which came in a mini copper saucepan, whilst the homemade chunky chips were served in a mini frying basket “This is the best steak ever,” Mike enthused. We felt it would be rude not to have a pudding after our friendly waitress described them so lovingly. All staff are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the menu and have received expert training in the city’s attractions so they can guide newcomers to the city. On her advice, I opted for the baked cheesecake with maple-baked plum compote and vanilla bean ice cream £6.50 which was to die for. Not really a dessert fan, Mike was truly converted with the home-made ice-cream selection from Cheshire Farms (£4.95) featuring vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and creme caramel. Staff brought this out on a chalk board with “happy birthday” written on it which put a smile on his face. We were tempted by the cheese board which looked absolutely divine showcasing the Best of the North range of locally made cheeses, accompanied with chutney, celery and artisan biscuits (£7.50), however, we were full to bursting so settled on a glass of Champagne to toast Mike’s day of birth. “This really has been a wonderful birthday,” said Mike.

LIGHT BITES

THE 60 SALE

DELI DELIGHTS

WINTER WARMERS

SUNDAY SERVICE

The culinary geniuses at 60 Hope Street have a post festive treat that will help you forget the credit crunch and brighten up those dark January days. They have introduced the 60 Hope Street January Sale menu for just £19.95 per person - what great news for the purse strings! The January sale runs from the right up until the February 27 (not including Valentine’s Day). Choose three courses from the winter seasonal menu for £19.95, which includes a complimentary bottle of Red Pasqua Sangiovese, Italy, or White Pasqua Chardonnay, Italy, to share between two people. Start off with the chicory, goats cheese & red pepper salad, followed by the Cumberland sausage with Lancashire mash & creamed leeks, finishing with a chocolate brownie served with blood orange sorbet. The offer is available between 12pm – 2:30pm and 5pm 10.30pm daily. For more information visit www.60hopestreet.com

Liverpool’s busy professionals now have a new culinary haven of delicious deli delights on their doorstep in St Pauls Square, now home to the newly opened Franklins Deli. Located in the heart of the business district, Franklins Deli is open for breakfast, lunch or a coffee and a cake on the go. A speciality is the hot deli sandwiches of roasted turkey, honey roasted gammon or the amazing salt beef - a succulent brisket of beef, rubbed with herbs and spices and slow steamed for six hours until it melts, this is then hand carved and served on a choice of fresh speciality breads. The Franklins Deli supports local suppliers and uses only the freshest of ingredients from local producers and of course, using minimal packaging; so you can rest easy in the knowledge that with Franklins Deli, every bite you take supports local businesses, while leaving a minimal carbon footprint. This New York style deli also specialises in coffee. Sink into the sumptuous sofas and enjoy a ‘flat white’ - the latest word in coffee. For more information visit www.franklinsdeli.com

The Gulshan has very kindly decided to spice up a cold and frosty January with a hot new lunch menu. The special lunch menu in January will feature Aloo Chappa served with homemade chutney, lightly spiced traditional potato cakes stuffed with keema, flavoured with mace, fresh mint, cinnamon, cardamon, clove and ginger and Gosht Kaliya, lamb chops in a spicy bhuna style gravy, flavoured with cracked black pepper. The award-winning Indian restaurant on Aigburth Road is well known to all curry aficionados and recently received a huge revamp introducing a stylish cocktail lounge and tapas bar with a Hollywood theme. The family restaurant is run by Mustafa and Salina Rahman and their son Shajad. Mum Salina has recently returned to the kitchen and has made a few changes to the menu, including the introduction of monthly dishes and special lunches. For more details call 0151 427 2273.

What better way to chase away the winter blues than with some delicious hearty food and some uplifting gospel music? Sunday Service at Alma de Cuba is a great way to while away a Sunday in one of Liverpool’s most spectacular restaurant and bars. A new addition to Alma de Cuba’s weekly diary, you can bring all your family and friends along and enjoy a great Sunday brunch whilst listening to the amazing live gospel choir within the magnificent conversion of the former St Peter’s Catholic church, Fabulous food including full English breakfasts, bangers and mash, steaks, fish and a great range of tapas combined with a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere and sprinkled with inspirational sounds from Soulful Voices are the perfect ingredients for a lazy Sunday. Food is served between 12 and 6pm every Sunday with the choir performing between 1.30pm and 4.30pm. Telephone 0151 702 7394 for more information.

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL 25

Food&drink

JANUARY 10

The big breakfast Sarah Hooley pulls on an extra roomy pair of trousers in a bid to find some of the city's best breakfasts… S your mum more than likely told you, there's nothing like a hearty breakfast to start the day and here at Best of Liverpool we couldn't agree more.

So in celebration of Farmhouse Breakfast Week, January 24 – 30, we’ve duly been scouring the city (purely for research purposes, you understand) to find some of the city's top brekkies...

THE TAVERN COMPANY

The Quarter

THE QUARTER

Mangetout

Perhaps best known for its tasty Mexican fayre, The Tavern Co on Smithdown Road easily romps its way into Best of Liverpool's best breakfast venues. A popular weekend hangout for families, friends and couples alike, the restaurant's bustling atmosphere, free tea and coffee refills and mouth-watering menu are an instant hit. House dishes include doorstop French toast, toasted bagel with cream cheese and the mighty American complete with fluffy pancake. The restaurant is open for brunch from 10.30am to 2.30pm on Saturday and 10am to 2.30pm on Sunday. 621 Smithdown Road, Penny Lane, L15 5AG. 0151 734 5555

Already famed for its delicious food, The Quarter has recently launched an exciting new and extended breakfast menu. Nestled just off Hope Street, the lively café bar enjoys an envious location amongst the cobbles of the city's Georgian quarter and serves everything from smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on toast, to freshly baked croissants served with lashings of jam and fresh fruit with sweet natural yoghurt and muesli, all made from locally sourced ingredients. The Quarter is open from 8am Monday to Friday and 10am on weekends. 7-11 Falkner St, Liverpool, L8 7PU 0151 707 1965 Kimos

MANGETOUT

The Tavern Company

Indulging in a good, hot breakfast is one of the best things about winter and on the days when the cold weather, sheeting rain or chilling wind gets too much - Mangetout is on hand with a plethora of winter warmers to brighten up your day. Whether it's a toasted teacake, bowl of hearty porridge topped with bananas and honey or a naughty but nice sausage barm, Mangetout is open from 7am to 3pm and is the perfect grab-on-your-way-to-work-breakfast. 21- 23 Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L3 9BS, 0151 227 4878, and, 55 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 9XL, 0151 258 1211

KIMOS FACT CAFÉ Tucked away on the ground floor of FACT, this bright and airy café aims to provide a source of nourishment for both body and mind. Open from 8am Monday to Friday, 10.30am on Saturday and 11am on Sunday, the café serves a delicious range of breakfasts and from hot breakfast baguettes and bagels to continental pastries – not to mention some of the city's finest speciality teas and coffees – everything is available to eat in or take out. 88 Wood Street, Liverpool, L1 4DQ 0151 707 4444

FACT Café

Tired of the same old soggy toast and cereal? Then head to Kimos on Mount Pleasant. A welcoming restaurant, Kimos brings a new twist to breakfast time and serves a plethora of dishes from 10am to 5pm seven days a week. Whether you fancy the restaurant's signature Foule Mudammas (traditional Arabic breakfast), fluffy omelettes or Mediterranean breakfast with fresh tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, falafels, fried egg and warm pitta bread, it's enough to satisfy even the biggest breakfast craving. 38-44 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, L3 5SX, 0151 707 8288, and, 6 Myrtle Street, Liverpool, L7 7DP, 0151 709 5392

BLACK PUDDING WITH SMOKED HADDOCK AND HOLLANDAISE SAUCE

Ingredients (for two people): Four slices of black pudding One piece of smoked haddock One medium-sized bag of fresh spinach A knob of butter A pinch of nutmeg For the sauce: Two egg yolks A sprig of fresh tarragon One tbsp white wine vinegar 8oz butter

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Method Melt butter and nutmeg in a frying pan and cook spinach until wilted. Next, grill four slices of black pudding for around two minutes on each side and poach smoked haddock over a medium heat for one minute or until heated through. For the sauce, place a heat proof bowl over a pan of boiling water and add white wine vinegar, before whisking in two egg yolks and a

WIN

A meal for two

Little Green café bar on Aigburth Road, Aigburth Vale, is kindly offering one lucky Best of Liverpool reader the chance to win a meal for two including a bottle of house wine. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question:

table spoon of cold water. In a separate pan, melt butter and slowly add to the sauce mixture while whisking until it reaches a smooth consistency. Finish by sprinkling in the chopped tarragon. To serve, place a generous amount of spinach on each plate, topped with two slices of black pudding and half of the smoked haddock fillet (per portion). Garnish with your homemade Hollandaise sauce.

Leon Yeadon making black pudding with smoked haddock and Hollandaise sauce at the Little Green café bar.

How many years did Leon Yeadon, head chef at Little Green, spend touring with music stars as a chef? Email your answer to magazine@liverpool.com, stating Little Green in the subject box - and don't forget to include your name and telephone number. Deadline for entries: Friday, January 22

Picture by Andy Teebay

Leon Yeadon, head chef at the Little Green café bar on Aigburth Road is a firm believer in the importance of a good breakfast. And with over 29 years’ experience in the industry and 12 years cooking for some of music’s biggest stars, he knows the importance of starting the day with a hearty meal. Here, he shows you how to make one of his favourite breakfasts.

Best of food&drink

JANUARY 10 Oriental Buffet Restaurant

BEST VALUE IN LIVERPOOL

Oriental Buffet & Korean Fondue Restaurant

The Orchard restaurant - bar - cider tavern

Eat as much as you like . . .

57 Blundell Street

NEW Sunday Lunch MENU 2 Courses £9.95 FOR 2010 FREE ON SITE PARKING Telephone: 0151 709 3060 www.theorchardliverpool.com

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET

7 DAYS A WEEK 365 DAYS A YEAR Lunch Buffet

11.30am - 5.30pm

Grand Buffet

5.30pm - 11.30pm

£5.95

with over 60 Dishes

£6.95

Children’s Buffet

Book now for Valentines Day and Chinese New Year

UNLIMITED SOFT DRINK AVAILABLE During December 50p surcharge on Grand Buffet only

77 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4EZ (2 mins walk from Chinatown)

Oriental Buffet Restaurant OPEN 365 DAYS Lunch Buffet 11.30am - 6pm

Grand Buffet

£5.95

TREAT YOUR FAMILY ON A SUNDAY FOR £21

£8.95

(2 adults & 2 children under 4 yrs)

Mon - Thur 6pm - 12pm includes Crispy Aromatic Duck and Seafood

Grand Buffet

Fri - Sat 6pm - 12pm

£9.95

All Day Sunday £6.75 11.30am - 12pm STEAMED FRESH SALMON SERVED EVERY FRI & SAT

0151 707 2929

Fixed price menu Pre-Theatre Menu all day

Lunch Menu

from £4.95

2 courses

£10.95

choose from 20 dishes every day 11.30 to 4pm

A free bottle of bubbly for all Hen & Stag parties

Get a Free bottle of wine* with this voucher!

Book now for Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year

2 eating from price menu.Menu Mon-Thu. Minimum of two*For people eating off fixed the Pre-Theatre Offer ends Friday 30th. of October. Excludes Saturdays Offer ends Sunday 31st January

Check

EAT AND DRINK FOR LESS THAN YOU THINK 4 Queens Square, Liverpool L1 1HF • Tel: 0151 709 2811

Come and experience our first-class cuisine and elegant surroundings Every Wednesday in January (from 6.30pm) PASTA NIGHT – enjoy a table for 2; 2 delicious bowls of pasta and a complimentary bottle of house wine for just £10.95!

OUR DELICIOUS SUNDAY ROAST -

A Night with Frank Sinatra, Sat 30th Jan, 3-course menu £25.95, book early to avoid disappointment The Iona 2010 Club – join for special offers, promotions & free giveaways

Blush Wine and Cocktail Bar, Liverpool’s most exclusive wine bar open every night from 4 pm until 1.30 am. Experience the unique and intimate venue with a wide range of exclusive custom cocktails to chose from. You can experience a unique VIP package in the private booth, ideal for parties or private celebrations. This exclusive new bar is set in the luxurious Beetham Plaza area off Brunswick street. Enjoy and relax in the plush surroundings of Liverpool’s new place to be.

IONA

Merton Road

STANLEY ROAD

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211 Stanley Road, Bootle L20 3DY ionarestaurantbootle@googlemail.com CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE www.ionarestaurants.co.uk Open 7 days per week! Mon 12-3pm, Tues-Fri 12pm-10pm, Sat 5pm-10pm, Sun 12pm-7pm

THE STRAND

Washington Parade

Bookings now for 3 courses for only £12.95 Valentines Weekend, (served 12pm-7pm) Mothers Day and CHILDREN’S MENU Aintree Weekend!

Min. of two people eating Ends 30th October. Excludes Saturdays 31 January Conditions apply

www.leftbankliverpool.com for more offers!

2 Queen Square (opp. Marriot Hotel) 0151 709 0922

THE PLACE EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT!

*NEW* A LA CARTE EVENING MENU

£5*

off your bill Mon-Fri 12 - 4pm

Christmas menu available NOW!

Opp. Marriot Hotel & Queens Sq Bus Stop) www.tsorestaurant.co.uk

TRY OUR - GREAT VALUE LUNCH MENU Served Mon-Fri

(Below 4.5 ft tall)

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Park St

wine & cocktail bar

Smart casual dress is essential For more information call 0151 236 6886

CHEF & BREWER

DINE WITH US IN THE NEW YEAR AND GET A GREAT OFFER OF TWO MEALS OFF OUR MAIN MENU FOR THE PRICE OF ONE IN THE FOLLOWING SELECTED CHEF & BREWERS Ashleigh (Cheadle)

DeTrafford (Alderley Edge)

Shire Horse (Stafford)

Axe & Cleaver (Altrincham)

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Hinderton (Neston)

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Rising Sun (Crewe)

Bull’s Head (Wilmslow)

Romper (Altrincham)

Unicorn (Wilmslow)

VALID ALL JANUARY PLEASE PRODUCE VOUCHER

* The Management are allowed to withdraw this offer at any time.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 27

Heading over to…

JANUARY 10

HIDDEN GEMS Set in the heart of the commercial district, The Beauty & Holistic Lounge, 46 Fenwick Street, is quietly earning a loyal army of fans. The ideal oasis from the city’s hustle and bustle, the salon is renowned for its fantastic treatments - not to mention affordable prices and following the launch of a fabulous new hair styling service is now better than ever. For more information, visit www.beautyandholisticlounge.co.uk Picture by Colin Lane

Bold Street is an eclectic hub of activity

Picture by Howard Davies

American Pizza Slice

AMERICAN PIZZA SLICE Whether you fancy a quick bite to eat or need to satisfy a post-Saturday night hangover, American Pizza Slice at 52 Whitechapel, should be on everyone’s speed dial. The mouth-watering menu is quite simply pizza heaven and includes an eight slice special which allows pizza-lovers to choose a different topping on every slice. Free home delivery is available on orders over £7 and the company has a number of tables for people to eat in. Call American Pizza Slice on 0151 707 1333.

LA CUBANITA Experience an authentic taste of Cuba in the heart of Liverpool at the lively La Cubanita. Nestled just behind Duke Street on the charming Campbell Square, La Cubanita serves a delicious range of finger-licking tapas, authentic Cuban meals and refreshing Mojitos – but it's the lively entertainment that has us hot under the collar. With salsa classes every Wednesday, live salsa bands on Friday and Saturday, together with a midweek Latin party night and Sunday afternoon cabaret, the restaurant’s fiesta-atmosphere is not to be missed. Visit www.lacubanita.co.uk

TRANSALPINO This gem of a shop is set inside Gostins Arcade, 32-36 Hanover Street and from classic Adidas and Mephisto footwear to Fjällräven and 80s casuals clothing, it’s every trainerjunkie’s dream. As an independent retailer, Transalpino is also proud to stock what it wants, when it wants and imports a range of products from Europe, Asia, South America and the USA to maintain its individuality. Visit www.transalpino.co.uk

The Albert Dock is home to a wonderful array of museums, restaurants, bars and shops

CITYslicker WE know it’s considered rude to blow your own trumpet, but when it comes to singing the praises of Liverpool city centre we just can’t help ourselves. The heart and soul of this fair region, the lively city centre is home to more history, culture and attractions than you could shake a stick at. And whether you fancy hitting the tourist trails or indulging in a spot of retail therapy, Liverpool offers endless possibilities so it’s little wonder that it was recently named as one of the top three UK city break destinations by travel bible, Condé Nast Traveller Magazine. The city’s shops are a particular draw and after undergoing some serious redevelopment, Liverpool’s retail hub is now up there with any major city. From the main thorough fares of Church Street and Lord Street, to bargain hunting in St John’s Shopping Centre or hitting the shops in Clayton Square, to splashing cash at the Metquarter or Cavern Quarter, we challenge you to come back with empty shopping bags. A host of quirky independent traders can also be found at Quiggins in Grand Central Hall and Gostins Arcade on Hanover Street and the acclaimed Liverpool ONE shopping centre is another shopper’s paradise. A labyrinth of attractive high street stores and restaurants, together with a state-of-the-art cinema, there’s also a stylish walkway which now seamlessly

Sarah Hooley discovers the bright lights of Liverpool city centre

links the city centre to the many visitor attractions, glamorous bars, restaurants - and legendary Yellow Duckmarine - of the Albert Dock. But of course, no visit to the city centre is complete without exploring Bold Street. Stretching from Hanover Street to the bottom of St Luke’s Church, the vibrant area is an eclectic medley of independent shops, designer boutiques, international cuisine and its genuine charm and laid back atmosphere draw visitors back time and time again. Just around the corner, you’ll find the effervescent Chinatown, as well as a steady flow of bars, restaurants and shops on Leece Street and Hardman Street followed by the historical Georgian Quarter. Home to three fantastic theatres as well as a handful of award-winning eateries, take time to stroll along the higgedly-piggedly cobbled streets of the Georgian quarter before immersing yourself in the stunning surroundings of the Anglican and Metropolitan Cathedrals. In fact, it's the city’s rich culture that has ensured several sites across Liverpool have been awarded coveted World Heritage Status by UNESCO. Not far from the newly developed Liverpool ONE lies the grandeur of the Three Graces and new-look Pier Head as well as the bustling commercial district. Awash with elegant architecture, many of the roads in the commerical district still

follow the original medieval layout and from the impressive Grade 1 listed Town Hall to the striking Bank of England building on Castle Street, the area is regarded as one of the most important architectural locations in the city. The civic masterpieces of the Central Library, Walker Art Gallery, World Museum Liverpool and St George's Hall - often referred to as the city’s Cultural Quarter - are another marvel and together with the Bluecoat on School Lane, Tate Liverpool and International Slavery Musuem at the Albert Dock, the city is blessed with one of the finest collection of musuems and galleries outside of the capital. Of course, it's impossible to talk about the city centre without mentioning Liverpool’s electric nightlife. Home to countless bars and watering holes as well as a barrage of traditional pubs, live music venues, theatres and comedy nights right across the city, Liverpool is at your beck and call to entertain any time, any day. So whatever your plans were for the weekend - cancel them and head to Liverpool city centre to find out what you’ve been missing.

HOW TO GET THERE: Call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit merseytravel.gov.uk

Going Underground on the Liverpool Loop Line in association with

For travel information call 0871 200 2233 or visit www.merseytravel.gov.uk

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Moorfields Station

Lime Street Station

Central Station

Disembark at Moorfields Station and just a short walk away you'll find a fabulous world of designer furniture and lifestyle products at BoConcept. Opened just four months ago, the store is owned by Liverpool design-virtuoso Elaine Cunningham of Elaine Cunningham Interiors and enjoys a prestigious location in the suitably glamorous surroundings of the RIBA award-winning 22-24 Chapel Street. The store is the first BoConcept to open in the North West and specialises in customised, coordinated and affordable furniture and accessories.

Be honest - how many times have you walked past the magnificent St George’s Hall? And how many times have you actually ventured inside? We thought so - but as they say, there's no time like the present so hop off at Lime Street Station and take the short walk to the Grade 1 listed marvel that is St George’s Hall, at St George’s Place. Entry to the hall's Heritage Centre is free and inside you'll discover the original prison cells, newly refurbished criminal court and judge’s robing room as well as the stunning 169ft-long hall with the largest vaulted ceiling of its kind in Europe.

Feeling peckish? Feast your eyes on The Italian Club, 85 Bold Street. Masterminded by the gastronomical geniuses behind The Italian Club Fish (also located on Bold Street), The Italian Club aims to bring an authentic taste of Italy to Liverpool. Just a short walk from Central Station, the cafe-comedeli offers a mouth-watering selection of freshly cooked main meals, starters and desserts - all prepared by authentic Italian chefs - as well as a daily selection of hot specials, paninis and Italian salads available to take away.

Picture by James Maloney

THE BEAUTY & HOLISTIC LOUNGE

Picture by Martin Birchall

The Chinese Arch in Chinatown.

Best of Liverpool City Centre Jewellery Retailers, Designers & Repairs Established Since 1952 Ungar Ungar Floral Bands

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JANUARY 10

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• Remounting, remaking and refurbishment of old Jewellers • Valuations and Estimates for insurance • Three year insurance policy available on Jewellery • Engraving Service • Lovelinks • Watch straps and batteries • D4 Diamond • Picture and Name Pendants • Ungar & • We now stock Medical Pendants Ungar

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BRAND NEW LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

Muscle relaxant injections & Dermal fillers - Big Discounts! Photorejuvenation Pixel Radio Frequency New Infrared Epionce Products

epilight

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54 Rodney Street, Liverpool L1 9AD www.epilightnewskin.co.uk

0151 709 0099

Serving the best Italian cuisine for 25 years

Franco’s Ristorante Where Italians love to eat

MALL IDEAL FOR S S G IN WEDD

Have you tried our new low price Lunchtime Menu? Lunch & Evening

Look on our website for further details

Also available for Business Lunches • Birthdays • Parties • Celebrations • Office Functions. Mon-Fri 11.30am-3.00pm. Tuesday-Sat 5.30pm-11.00pm 48a Castle Street, Liverpool - Tel: 0151 236 3375 Fax: 0151 236 7260 www.baritalialiverpool.com

K O ! W BO O N

JANUARY SALE

50% OFF OUR JANUARY MENU

SUNDAY TO THURSDAY UNTIL 28 JANUARY Offer applies to January menu ONLY, excluding tapas. Cut out voucher to redeem offer

CUBAN SINGER & LIVE BAND FRI-SAT | SALSA CLASSES | ACOUSTIC BAND

0151 709 5335 | www.lacubanita.co.uk Cambell Square, L’pool (Off bottom of Duke Street)

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Travel

JANUARY 10 Go Penguins

Space Invaders - Art and the Computer Game Environment

Family activities at Tate Liverpool

SOMETHING FOR NOTHING Sue Kelbrick finds out that the best things in life are free IF Christmas has sucked you dry and left you penniless - don’t be downhearted. Best of Liverpool has done its homework and found some great events and activities for the whole family to enjoy in the city this January. And want to know the best bit? They’re all free! Paintings by cult abstract artist, Mark Rothko make a welcome return to the Tate Liverpool until March 21. The gallery opened its doors for the first time with a memorable display of Rothko’s Seagram Murals so it is only fitting, that over 20 years later, these nine iconic pictures are on display once again, presented according to Rothko’s exacting specifications, with atmospheric lighting to enhance the dramatic qualities of the works. This display is presented in conjunction with the Tate Collection display DLA Piper Series: This is Sculpture, which takes an ambitious and revolutionary look at the history of modern and contemporary sculpture. The exhibiton includes masterpieces from the Tate Collection by artists such as Sir Jacob Epstein, Henry Moore, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Gilbert & George and Anthony Gormley. Key figures from the cultural arena, artist Michael Craig Martin, artist/writer Tim Etchells and architect Wayne Hemingway and his son Jack, have co-curated sections of the display. For more information contact Tate Liverpool on 0151 702 7400 or visit www.tate.org.uk/liverpool

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If you and your family enjoy getting up close and personal to our feathered friends then don't miss the RSPB Garden Birdwatch Day at Sefton Park Palm House on Sunday, January 24. From 12noon – 4pm you can enjoy the

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL

beauty of our natural birdlife. Experts from the RSPB will be there to share their knowledge and set up a variety of feeders to attract the birds. Liverpool Liverbirds Wildlife Explorers Group will attend for children aged six to 12, with lots of fun, prizes and activities. Tropical Inc will be doing displays and talks with their birds at 12noon, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. The Walker Art Gallery has a number of free events aimed at families during January. Check out Gallery talk: Prams and Pushchairs on January 14 at 1pm, aimed at adults who often miss out on cultural events because of having young children. The talk will explore female artists thorugh paintings, prints and drawings and the best bit is you can bring the kids along! There are limited places available so make sure you telephone to book your free place on 0151 478 4178. On January 23, in honour of Emma Rogers’ Monkey Mother and Child sculpture, bring the kids along to Monkey Business, where they can create their own 3-D monkey.

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More free family activities are being held at Tate Liverpool throughout January including Tate Explorers, on every weekend from 1.30pm until 4.30pm. Children up to the age of 12 (and their parents of course!) are challenged to visit the Explorers’ Base Camp trolley to collect a map or activity bag. The maps take the young explorers on a journey of discovery to see, feel and learn about the art in the gallery. Before they return back to base camp they create some art of their own, inspired by their exploration. Another event for the whole family to enjoy is the This is Sculpture Family Acitivity Trail on every day from 10am. Pick up a free family bag from the foyer or the Family Room

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and join in a family activity trail which takes visitors around the first and second floor galleries. The trail is packed with questions and drawing activities. For more information contact Tate Liverpool on 0151 702 7400 or visit www.tate.org.uk/liverpool To celebrate the 200th anniversary of William Gladstone’s birth in Liverpool, the Gladstone Room at St George’s Hall is hosting a free exhibition until March. The event aims to give an insight into the life of the famous Liberal statesman and the impact he had on the city and indeed the country as a whole. Contact St George’s Hall on 0151 225 6909 or visit www.stgeorgesliverpool.co.uk

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Not to be missed at FACT is a fascinating exhibition entitled Space Invaders: Art and the Computer Game Environment which explores the increasingly blurred boundaries between video game spaces and real spaces. From the detailed, complex worlds of Grand Theft Auto to zen gaming and augmented reality, the exhibition brings together world-renowned new media artists and innovative games designers who are pushing the limits of the medium. Mark Essen, a rising star of video game art, will develop a brand new commission for FACT. Essen’s brutal, lo-fi video games earned him a place as the youngest of the 50 artists in the New Museum’s “The Generational: Younger Than Jesus,” the international exhibition exclusively showcasing the work of artists aged 33 and under. Cao Fei, one of China’s most acclaimed young artists, presents his film installation COS Players (2004). COSPlay, short for ‘Costume Play’ captures this growing trend in Asian countries of bringing virtual battles to

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life. Set in the artist’s hometown of Guangzhou, the video follows a group of teenagers who act out an elaborate drama dressed in martial arts from their favourite computer games and animations. The exhibition also brings together playable commercial games from the high definition ‘zen’ game Flower to Grand Theft Auto. In public spaces, there will be retro arcade cabinets, supplied by Jonathan Thompson, and Ultra Awesome’s giant Nintendo controller to play. For further details contact FACT on 0151 707 4444 or visit fact.co.uk There is still time to check out Go Penguins, Britain’s biggest winter public art extravaganza. On until January 10, scattered around the streets of Merseyside, there are 135 individually designed five foot penguins – and a further 98 mini three foot penguins. Aiming to highlight the dangers of global warming and polar ice map melting, members of the public can follow the trail of the penguins throughout the city with Wirral and St Helens also hosting their very own polar colonies. More than 500 litres of paint, 100 litres of varnish, 10kg of mud, 5,000 glass and ceramic tiles, 1,000 plastic carrier bags, 500 buttons, 1km of fabric and several hats have all been incorporated by an army of artists and school children. The free event is being delivered by Wild In Art, the people behind the phenomenally successful Go Superlambananas - a highlight of the Liverpool’s Capital of Culture celebrations. The free Go Penguins trail map is available at Tourist Information Centres, the Merseytravel Rail Network and other major outlets and downloadable online at www.gopenguins.co.uk

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BEST OF LIVERPOOL 31

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• Cabin category of your choice for duration of cruise • All meals & snacks on board • All entertainment, sports & leisure facilities • All Port taxes • Porterage on board • Coach transfers on selected itineraries (subject to availability) • Private cocktail party (subject to numbers) • Services of a Connoisseur Escort (subject to numbers) UP TO £150 PER CABIN ON BOARD SPEND OR FREE CAR PARKING OR NATIONAL EXPRESS COACH

CALL NOW TO BOOK 0845 1300 788

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30 pm, Saturday 9am – 12 pm

www.connoisseurcruising.com • enquiries@connoisseur-cruising.co.uk All prices are subject to availability at the time of booking • CONNOISSEUR CRUISING – ABTA K0692