16 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
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Broccoli is the business. Ask Mum, it’s the only green thing I eat. The way she does it with cheese sauce is the best. She’s been getting all adventurous lately and now it’s popping up everywhere, in stir-fries, curries... There’s always some of it in the fridge, well wrapped up, so it doesn’t go soft like Mum. lovefoodhatewaste.com has more tips and recipes to help you waste less food and save up to £50 a month.
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Spring is in the air ... so let’s go green! 16 pages of tips and tales . . . from a recycled Easter to ex-offenders on the allotments
IN ASSOCIATION WITH ...
2 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Welcome toour world... it’sgreen!
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Monday, March 29, 2010
NEWS 15
MAGIC: Katie Spivey, 4, cuddles a week-old lamb at Croxteth Hall Farm Picture: GARETH JONES
Supplement written and researched by JADE WRIGHT WELCOME to the spring It’s Our World supplement – part of our green section dedicated to making Merseyside a better place to live in. We’re now almost a year into the project and we’re already seeing big changes. From improved recycling rates to more green activities for community groups, the environmental message is coming over loud and clear in Merseyside. The many trees that were planted in different projects last year are now coming into bud and the flowers are coming into bloom. Over the past few months I’ve been overwhelmed by your fantastic green ideas, your ingenious tips and the many inspirational things you’ve been doing to make the world a better place. This edition is packed with things to see and do, as well as green news and tips on how we can all make a difference plus of course, details of how you have taken It's Our World to your hearts. Pages 4 and 5 focus on the pioneering rare breeds work at Croxteth Park Farm which opens to visitors again this weekend after a winter break. On Pages 6 and 7 there are some great outdoor activities, plus young offenders paying back their debt to society by growing vegetables for the community and a great competition to win free loft insulation. Your Easter will be a little bit sweeter with our special feature on Pages 8 and 9, and on Pages 10 and 11 you can grow your own, and see how to keep a food waste diary. Bridget Jones has got nothing on our food diarist Gail Mooney! On Pages 12 and 13 we’ve got some great news on green business initiatives in Merseyside, and Pages 14 and 15 have our bumper listings of environmental activities this spring. Please do keep your news coming – email me at jade.wright@liverpool.com, or log on to the green blog http://blogs.liverpool echo.co.uk/ecowarrior/ and share your green news with the world. I’ll feature as much as I can in my weekly pages, and in the It’s Our World supplements which will continue to appear every three months in your paper. We know how hard you’re working to make Merseyside greener. Now, as spring comes with a burst of new life, it seems like we’re really getting there. Happy Easter! jade.wright@liverpool.com www.itsourworld.co.uk
May 30 Wood for the Trees walk, Acornfield, Knowsley, 10am-1pm. May 31 Recycled Arts Workshop for ages 7-12, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, www.the-green-fuse.co.uk, 1pm. June 1 Bee Scene – making candles for under-8s, National Wildflower Centre, free places available, 10am-12noon. Recycled Arts Workshop for ages 7-12, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, www.the-green-fuse.co.uk, 1pm. June 2 A Taste of Honey, National Wildflower Centre, free, admission charges to centre apply, 2pm.
nature and reserve this Saturday. From self guided nature trails to face painting Easter crafts as well as a traditional Easter egg hunt, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Eva Tregidgo, Community Outreach Adviser at Ainsdale Sand Dunes, e to says: “The event offers a great family day out and a chance for everyon the visit the reserve, explore the dunes and pinewoods and learn about diverse wildlife on their doorstep. most “As well as great crested newts, the reserve is home to one of the are important populations of natterjack toad in the country. Sand lizards of red also often seen here and the pinewoods are home to a large number squirrels.” The dunes are home to over 450 plant species including 33 that are bartsia, locally or regionally rare like petalwort, seaside centaury, yellow d round-leaved wintergreen, dune helleborine and pendulous flowere helleborine. adds: Liz Newton, North West Regional Director for Natural England, nature. “This event is a great opportunity to introduce young people to is “Having contact with nature is important for everyone. But it in especially important for our children. Whilst many skills can be gained nature with contact direct through learnt be only can the classroom, others and the sorts of experiences that these events provide.”
● THERE’S a free Easter family event at Ainsdale Sand Dunes
Easter egg fun ● THIS Easter hop down to Church Farm in
Thurstaston. They have organic food, friendly animals, beautiful views and fun family events. The Easter Bunny has hidden lots of eggs in the forest and needs some help to find them. Go through the farm to the magical forest. You'll need all your searching skills to find all our eggy clues around the forest. Some of the clues are puzzles and games of skill, so keep your thinking hats on, as well as your Easter bonnets. Back at the farm, meet the super-cute Easter ducklings and chicks and play on the swings, slides and sand diggers. Tickets must be bought in advance. They’re £7.50 from the farm shop on 0151 648 7838 or £7 online at www.churchfarm.org.uk.
June 3 Story Telling Walks, National Wildflower Centre, £2.50 + admission charges to centre, 1pm & 3pm. June 4 Bee Beautiful, National Wildflower Centre, decorate a pot and plant a bee friendly plant, free, but admission charges to centre apply, 1pm & 3pm. June 6 Green Fayre, free family event in Court Hey Park, Knowsley, noon-5pm.
Daffodils in bloom in Liverpool’s Sefton Park. Below left: Huyton’s National Wildflower Centre and Hilbre Island off West Kirby. Top: Easter chicks
Main Picture: GARETH JONES
partners
Poppy Bentley, 3, right, on the Church Farm Easter trail
FOR ADVERTISING OR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES PLEASE CALL 0151 472 2705 OR EMAIL neil.Johnson@liverpool.com
14 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
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Didn’t we have a lovely time, the day we went to .... DIARY DATES ...
April 5 Easter Egg Fun, Royden Park, Frankby, Wirral. Follow the clues to find the eggs. Sorry no dogs. No need to book. Meet at the entrance to the Walled Garden in Royden Park, 1.30pm - 3.30pm. April 6 Egg Rolling, King George V Playing Fields, Knowsley, 12-3pm. April 7 Kite Making, Alt Park, Knowsley, 1-3pm. How to create a Square Yard Garden, National Wildflower Centre, Huyton, £3 + admission charges to centre; Age 7+, 10am – noon. April 8 Kite making, Jubilee Park, Knowsley, 1-3pm. Storytelling Walk, National Wildflower Centre, £2.50 + admission charges to centre, 1pm & 3pm. Easter Egg Hunt, Mill Farm, Knowsley, 1-3pm Dragon Tales and other Fiery Fables, Stories of Flying Fairies and Whirling Witches, Croxteth Hall; Fun storytelling sessions for ages 4 - 11. To book a place (£2.50 per child, £1 adult) ring the Hall Gift Shop on 0151 233 6930. April for the Ardent, Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre, an invigorating walk along the Wirral Way from Thurstaston to the Dawpool Nature Reserve, then returning back along the beach and up the steps to the Visitor Centre. Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead. For further enquiries call 0151-648-4371. April 9 Tales of mermaids, magic and creatures of the deep, tales of trolls, tricks and toadstools, Croxteth Hall. Educational storytelling sessions focussed on different environment themes, to book a place (£2.50 per child, £1 Adult) ring the hall gift shop on 0151 233 6930. April 10 Kite making at Jubilee Park, Knowsley, 12-3pm. April 11 Walled Garden open days, Dibbinsdale Nature Reserve. Visit the Eco-garden project at Dibbinsdale Nature Reserve, run by and for people with learning disabilities. Wild flowers, trees, insect garden, veg, fruit and composting demonstration area. Plants and refreshments will be on sale on behalf of the project, 11am-3pm. Hilbre Island open day, Hilbre Island. Join the Friends of Hilbre on the main island where they will have the Grade II listed Telegraph Station open and will have telescopes set up to watch the seals, 12.30 - 4pm. Contact 0151-648-4371/3884 for advice on tide times; or contact the Hilbre Ranger at: 0151-678 5488. April 12 Where do you get your eggs from? National Wildflower Centre, £2 + admission charges to Centre, 1pm & 3pm. April 13 Bee Beautiful, National Wildflower Centre. Decorate a pot and plant a bee friendly plant, free, admission charges to centre apply, 1pm & 3pm.
April 18 Mad Panda Tea Party, National Wildflower Centre, free event. Pre-booking essential on 0151 281 7967, details from www.madpanda.co.uk, 1- 4pm. April 21 Simply the Best, Gardening for Schools, National Wildflower Centre, RHS Course. See the RHS schoolgardening@rhs.org.uk for further info, 9.30am – 3.30pm. April 24 Spring Clean, Mill Farm, Knowsley, 1-3pm. How to grow herbs, National Wildflower Centre, £7.50, includes entry to centre, 10am – 12noon. April 25 Wild food lunch specials, Cornflower Cafe, National Wildflower Centre, using nettles, dandelions etc. Recipe sheets to take away. The Victorian Gardener, Croxteth Hall; travel back in time to meet the Victorian Head Gardener and discover his role in Lord Sefton's splendid Walled Garden, producing fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables. This event is a ticket only event - book yours by calling the ticket line on 0151 233 6930. Walled Garden admission prices apply. May 1 Beating the Bounds, Huyton Wetlands, 12-3pm.
Monday, March 29, 2010
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May 2 International Dawn Chorus Day, Croxteth Hall, learn about the wild woodland bird population and experience the delights of a rousing 'dawn chorus' with Liverpool's Ranger Interpretation Service. This is the best time of the year to hear birds singing as they vie with each other to establish breeding territories and attract a mate. Wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Buy tickets in advance from the hall gift shop, £3, 5am.
● LIVERPOOL community organisations have received more than £74,000 to help fund environmental projects. The money comes from Liverpool City Council’s Year of the Environment Fund, set up last year. The money from the fund has now been fully allocated to a total of 78 projects across the city. Valley Community Theatre, in Netherley, received £2,500 for their Valley Garden project. The project has brought together adults with learning disabilities, older people and young people to transform a piece of ground to the rear of the theatre. The grant went towards improving the garden and developing a recycling area with compost bins and plants. Lark Lane Neighbour Association received just under £1,000 to help carry out two major clean-up events focusing on grot spots in the area. Liverpool Quakers association was given £1,000 in funding to create a sustainable garden which will be used for running educational and recreational activities and events. Sola Arts in Toxteth received a grant of £1,000 to fund a series of six workshops for local young people. Young volunteers took part in clean-up campaigns and wildlife spotting workshops as part of the project. Colin Heaney, Grants Officer at LCVS, said: “The money allocated has gone to some really worthwhile projects which have helped improve the local communities in Liverpool and bring people in the area closer together. “We are particularly pleased with the way the grants have been delivered. Instead of decisions being made by someone outside the community, panels have used their local knowledge and skills to ensure the funding achieved the best outcome for their community.”
NEWS 3
Spring is in the air on the farm
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CORN Farm in Kirkby has a host of great family activities planned over the next few weeks. Project administrator Tracy Paynter says: “All the sheep have just given birth over the last couple of weeks so there are plenty of lambs around – 19 lambs including three sets of triplets. “One of our Silkies (fancy breed of chicken) has just given birth to five chicks. We run an incubator package and we have chicks coming back to the farm that have been hatched by local schools.” In addition Roxy the pig is due to have a litter of piglets any day soon. As well as their farm animals to stroke and feed, there are plant sales and woodland walks. On Wednesday April 7 there’s a Farmer for a Day workshop for 8-12 year olds. Budding agriculturalists will be able to find out about looking after rabbits and guinea pigs, feed the chickens and ducks, help to collect and sort the eggs for sale in the farm shop and milk a goat. The day costs £10 per child and must be booked in advance. The next day, April 8, there’s a Horse Day. It offers an introduction to horses and equipment, stable management, riding games and a horse quiz. Again it’s suitable for 8-12 year olds. It costs £15 per child. Book on 0151 548 1524 or email info@acornfarm.co.uk.
A horse at Acorn Venture Farm
Picture: JAMES MALONEY
May 5 Plant some memories, National Wildflower Centre, for the over 50s, refreshments provided, free places available, 10am-12noon. May 9 Liverpool Association of Women's Clubs Annual Walk, Croxteth Park; a popular charity walk in the park. For more details telephone 0151 724 3046. May 15 Discover Nature at Stadt Moors Park, 1-3pm. May 16 Discover Nature at Huyton Wetlands, 1-3pm. May 15 Pond Dipping, Acornfield, Knowsley, 1-3pm. May 29 Wildflowers & Folklore, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, 10am-12noon.
JUMPING FOR JOY: More than 100 Merseyside 10-year-olds got together to show adults how much better they would manage the environment if they were in charge - holding the banner at the back is Cllr John Coyne, left, and Cllr Phil Moffat, together with charity worker Arbab Shakar, and some of the youngsters Picture: JAMES MALONEY ● MORE than a hundred pupils from across Merseyside have united to show adults how much better they would manage the environment if they were in charge. Children from St John’s Catholic Primary School, in Kirkdale, Bishop Martin Church of England Primary School, in Woolton, and Garston Church of England Primary School have been parading and singing about climate change. Nalina Eggert, the event organiser from the Liverpool World Centre, said: “St John’s recently raised £2,000 to help the survivors of the earthquake in Haiti.
Garston have been learning about climate change and Bishop Martin pupils have been growing their own vegetables. We are delighted to have such environmentally-conscious children on board.” The school children have been finding out more about climate change and its effects with Oxfam, CAFOD, Christian Aid and the Liverpool World Centre, and spoke to Arbab Shakar, a Pakistan-based Oxfam worker, on how poor countries are coping with climate change. “It’s great to know that so many children in Liverpool are interested in learning about climate change and how
it affects other children in a country like Pakistan,” said Arbab. Mrs Donnelly, teacher for year 5 at Bishop Martin Church of England Primary School, in Woolton, said: “It has been great, the children had fun and have learnt a lot about climate change and the injustices of it. At school they are working towards a Green Flag award. They run a Greener school committee. They have set up a travelling scheme, walk-in-bus, to reduce their carbon emissions. They are also looking after a garden plot, grow their own veg and 18 baby chicks have hatched this week!”
4 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
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It’s animal magic!
NEWS 13
Monday, March 29, 2010
Work, rest and . . . recycle
Waste not, want not, is the message you are never too young to learn
Dr
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ROXTETH’S Home Farm is one of Liverpool’s most popular visitor attractions, a place for families to come and see farm animals in a traditional countryside setting just minutes from the city. But not all of the thousands of visitors will realise that it also plays a valuable role in conserving some of Britain’s rarest animals – a living museum for farming. Home Farm is much more than a pet’s corner. It is one of only 14 Approved Conservation Farm Parks in Britain performing a vital role in conserving genetic diversity in farm animals. Its conservation role can be traced to the birth of modern agriculture when farmers developed breeds that were suited to their particular needs. Often these were most suited to a particular part of Britain – such as the shaggy Highland cattle, able to weather life in the Scottish Highlands, or a Ronaldsay sheep, bred to survive on a diet of seaweed in their home on Orkney. Others met different needs. Tiny Dexter cattle were ideal for smallholders, supplying a family with milk and meat from a small plot. Longhorn cattle and giant Shire horses were bred to pull heavy carts and ploughs. But the needs of farming today are different from those of our forebears. Not only have tractors replaced horses, modern farming uses just a few breeds, abandoning the older breeds that don’t meet current needs. These are specialised for high volume production. For example almost all of our milk comes from Holstein cattle, the familiar black
Reduce your waste line and white dairy cows. No wonder when a pedigree animal can produce 14,298 pints in one year – that’s 39 pints a day. Traditional breeds went into rapid decline, a trend that has been reversed by the work of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, founded in 1973 (www.rbst. org.uk) Croxteth’s Home Farm was established as a Rare Breeds Centre by Liverpool Museum in 1982, set up to show visitors a working farm and to conserve historic farm breeds. The farm keeps a number of breeds that have historical links to the Earl of Sefton’s estate, such as Dexter and Redpoll cattle, but also some of the rarest breeds in Britain. There are fewer Irish Moiled cattle in the world than there are Giant Pandas. And Croxteth has one of the largest herds in the UK. The traditional setting of Croxteth’s farm belies the hi-tech modern approach to breeding.
DNA samples are used to track the genetic fingerprint and ancestry of the animals, ensuring that appropriate bloodlines are kept and future breeding programmed. Heterozygosity, alleles and back-crossing are as much part of the farming vocabulary as muck and milking. The rarity of stock means that artificial insemination, using frozen semen from bulls from many miles away, is commonplace, ensuring the survival of the breeds but also providing a pretty constant supply of new animals for the public to see. Rare breeds are not only conserved for historic reasons. Many people are now seeking high quality from their food, something which these breeds can supply. The BBC’s Food and Farming Awards, the “Oscars” for food production, are regularly won by rare breed meat producers where quality, rather than quantity is
the aim. Quality Rare Breed meat features on the menus of many top restaurants. More modern breeds may produce huge volumes of milk and meat but they also require a high input to achieve them, consuming concentrated specialist food. The old breeds also ensure a broad gene pool, avoiding the dangers of over specialisation which can leave animals vulnerable to disease and inherited conditions. The ability of many rare breeds to flourish on poorer quality grazing has also led to their extensive use for conservation grazing, maintaining nature reserves by using cows, sheep, ponies or even pigs to naturally care for a wild environment. The uniqueness and value of rare breeds means that they can command high prices. Selling rare breed animals for breeding or meat boosts Croxteth’s income. W6ell bred bulls will sell for thousands of pounds.
Find out ways that you can reduce, reuse or recycle your waste by visiting: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
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ANY of us in our home lives class ourselves as committed recyclers. Our local authorities have helped with this by providing kerbside collections for bottles, paper and garden waste. We have now also taken to carrying spare bags around with us for our shopping. But how many of us have seen this approach transferred to our place of work? Initial results from the Environment Agency Commercial and Industrial waste survey show that the amount of waste being recycled has increased from 35.3% in 2006, to 59.8% in 2009. This is great news, but more needs to be done. The amount of commercial waste which is being produced continues to increase – a whopping 3.9 million tonnes of commercial waste was produced in the region in 2009, an increase of 2.5% since 2006. The Environment Agency are working in partnership with Liverpool City Council in the Make Waste Your Business campaign, and the Football League Trust to improve the environmental credentials of football clubs and their community programmes. Where business can’t reduce the amount of waste they produce, they need to look at ways in which they can reuse or recycle. Builderscrap Ltd is not only giving advice on waste management, but are also helping to provide a database of customers and surplus materials which can be re-used. “At the Environment Agency we have already taken steps to reduce the amount of waste we produce,” says Emma Harding, communications business partner. “We recycle 84% of our waste, but we want to do more by 2015 sending no waste to landfill. We’re also committed to further reducing the amount of waste we produce by 20% by 2015. These kinds of targets are challenging and we should be leading by example for both the public and private sector business in the region.” For free environmental guidance on how to manage your business waste visit www.netregs.gov.uk or contact Environment Connect on 0845 006 888.
GOING GREEN Guidance and Training for Businesses from Liverpool Chamber of Commerce
Get rid of leftover, unused materials and any good quality second hand products For more information visit our Roadshow at the Huws Gray Builders Centre
Wednesday 31st March - Flint Thursday 1st April - Wrexham
• Do you want to know how your business can reduce its impact on the environment and improve its green credentials? • Are you unsure about how to respond to new climate legislation and what this will mean for your business? • Do you want to cut costs, realise savings, and get lean, clean and green ALL at the same time? • If so then join Liverpool Chamber’s Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Club which provides training on environmental procedures for your company. • Contact Liverpool Chamber of Commerce today for information on the next round of training from the EMS club and opportunities for funding. Email Kush.Thakar@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk or telephone 0151 227 1234.
http://www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk
12 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Clean and green!
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Monday, March 29, 2010
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NEWS 5
A PROUD HERITAGE
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E all know that public transport is a greener way to travel, but it seems that Merseytravel are going the extra mile. Their annual environmental sustainability report shows: ● A 14% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions since 2005/6. ● 100% of all electricity purchased from renewable or highly efficient sources. ● 32% reduction in water use since 2005/6. ● 104 tonnes of waste recycled in 2008/9. Merseytravel have also become a signatory of the Nottingham Declaration, a pledge to address the causes of climate change, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its own activities. At the same time Merseytravel achieved the Carbon Trust Standard, an accreditation given to
The North West has above average CO2 emissions We’re committed to changing this by helping you, both in the workplace & at home, to make a positive difference
organisations taking real action to reduce their direct impact on climate change. Neil Scales, chief executive of Merseytravel, says: “We’re committed to protecting the environment while delivering a world class transport system to serve passengers across Merseyside. “To achieve this we recognise that the sites we manage, the services we supply and the decisions of our staff have an effect on the environment and we aim to integrate sustainability into the core of our work, minimising the impact of our operations on the environment. “We also aim to work with suppliers and contractors with an environmental ethos like our own, for example the company supplying the cleaning products to Hatton Garden takes back their plastic containers and has them recycled into children’s playground furniture.”
Animals from a majestic shire horse to tiny chicks with everything in between, particularly new born lambs, are a source of great fascination to children (and adults too!)
THE original Home Farm at Cro xteth Hall and Country Park was establish ed in the mid 1800s. The Home Farm was essential element of the estate from an Victorian times to the death of the Earl in 1972. It provided meat, eggs last and dairy produce for the Molyneux and the estate. Home Farm remfamily working farm but today is mainlyains a a visitor attraction. Home Farm was only one of man farms on the original estate whic y stretched from Halewood in the h once Hightown in the north. And the south to tenanted farms provided incomemany support the Earl’s opulent lifestyleto of the rest of the land around the . Much Hall was used for sport. After the death of the last Earl the Park, including Home Farm, was bequeathed to Liverpool City Cou ncil which continues to manage the Farm as a visitor attraction. The farm has a Manager who is supported by a team of eight staff. Today the buildings, pastures and woodlands remain one of the best preserved examples of an Edwardi Country Estate and are now an an important heritage site. The farm has an extensive edu programme delivering National cational Curriculum topics related to agri food and farming to schools fromculture, Liverpool area and surrounding the boroughs.
CREATIVE YOUNGSTERS ARE LEADING A BLITZ ON DOG FOULING
The Big Compost Giveaway!
As a big thank you to the residents of Liverpool, we are offering FREE compost that has been made from the green waste that is collected from Liverpool households. Please bring your own bag and shovels, and help yourself to some peat free organic compost to help your garden grow! The Compost Giveaways will be held at the following locations between 9.00am & 12noon: Saturday 17 April
Clarke Gardens, off Springwood Avenue, L25
Saturday 15 May
Walton Hall Park, main car park off Blackthorne Road
Saturday 12 June
Sefton Park, car park area off Croxteth Drive
Pupils from Arnot St Mary’s Church of England Primary School have designed hard hitting posters urging owners to clean up after their canines. Despite the best efforts of the city council’s street cleansing team, irresponsible dog owners continue to allow their dogs to foul outside the school. Now, the passionate youngsters have joined the council’s crusade to educate local dog owners on the dangers of failing to ‘scoop their dog’s poop’. Gary Shaw, head teacher of the school, said: “Dog fouling around the school has been a problem for years and the youngsters have just accepted it as a way of life. I’m delighted the council is tackling this issue head on and, hopefully, after all the children’s hard work, people will learn to clean up their dog’s mess.”
Saturday 18 September Croxteth Park, car park off Oak Lane and Muirhead Avenue Saturday 16 October For sponsorship or advertising opportunities contact: Neil Johnson It’s Our World Account Manager Telephone: 0151 472 2705 Email: neil.johnson@liverpool.com
Clarke Gardens, off Springwood Avenue, L25
Fines up to £1000 are now being enforced To report any dog fouling call 0151 233 3001
6 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Jolly green giants! O
NCE upon a time there was a spoiled princess who forced a besotted prince to find a magic singing ringing tree. After many months of travelling he eventually found the tree, and then the story began to unfold. But you don’t have to go to those lengths. It’s now a permanent attraction at Wigg Island in Runcor n. And its namesake at the popular nature reserve is a far happier place altogether. Local artist Angela Sidwell was commissioned to work with the schools and community groups to
make and design a ringing tree which can be found in the Troll Trail nature area at Wigg Island. The project involved two local schools – Runcor n All Saints and The Brow – along with Upton Conservation Group, Halton Day Services and the Guides and several groups of brownies from Runcor n East, 10th Halton, 7th & 10th Runcor n. All groups have created a series of designs which will be used and incorporated onto metal oak leaves. The leaves will adorn the top branches of an Oak tree hanging alongside ringing bells.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
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NEWS 11
My Love Food Hate Waste Diary... Gail Mooney keeps the family meals healthy and tasty ... with help from Love Food Hate Waste
Halton Borough Council's Executive Member for Parks and Countryside Cllr Phil Harris, says: “The young people and groups involved in the project have worked really hard and produced a wonderful new attraction for the park.” The Friends of Wigg Island Community Park and Halton Borough Council secured funding from The Mersey Forest and Ineos Chlor to create the arts project. All participants who have been involved with the project were invited to attend the unveiling of the tree to the public.
The Ringing Tree at Wigg Island, Runcorn. Inset: Halton Day Services members and helpers join Ranger Bill Morton at the site
COMPETITION
Be a good egg this Easter! Holly Barnabas, 9, from Cronton CofE School – and pet Miffy – with a selection of ‘no plastic’ Easter eggs boxed in recycled cardboard
KNOWSLEY Council is encouraging residents to “Think Green” this Easter with some handy hints and tips for local residents. REDUCE ● Make an Easter basket with smaller eggs with less or no plastic packaging. ● Look for Easter eggs with
recycled cardboard ● A tree or plant makes a good Easter gift and produces no waste. REUSE ● Use old Easter egg plastic packaging as a mould to make your own Easter eggs ~at home. ● Make your own Easter cards
using junk materials. ● Save the stamps from your Easter post and donate these to charities. RECYCLE ● Be a good egg and recycle all of your Easter cards and envelopes. ● Recycle all your Easter egg packaging.
W
E all want to eat healthier meals and save money, but in a busy week it’s sometimes hard to find the time. But, as Gail Mooney from Wallasey shows, it’s all about building up a routine. Gail, 35, has been keeping a food diary to show how cutting food waste is simpler than it seems. “I first heard about Love Food Hate Waste in work last year, it has now become my natural way of thinking,” she explains. “I thought I’d give it a go after learning I could save up to £50 a month and reduce the amount of good food I’m wasting. Anything that saves money has to be worth a try, but I found that I’ve really enjoyed some of the recipes, and tips suggested. “At first, it does take a bit of time, but it doesn’t have to be a chore and once you get going it actually saves you time. “I’ve enjoyed making different meals and thinking of new and creative meals we can have for tea. Having two young children it’s also good to get them eating a variety of foods – and get them in the kitchen. It’s amazing how many kids don’t ever help out in the kitche, so hopefully its an education thing as well.”
Monday
I made a very large pan of Scouse so that anything leftover could be stored in
● SHARE your ideas, tips and recipes for reducing food waste . . . the top five will receive a Love Food Hate Waste kit to help you to reduce your food waste. To enter email jade.wright@liverpool.com. Closing date Friday, April 9. Tupperware tubs. At £1 for 8 at the pound shop they are handy and ever so economical.
Tuesday
I made chicken pie with meat from Sunday’s roast. I always keep the essentials in the cupboard and fridge, so with a few bits to liven up the pie and some leftover veg (also from the roast) for a lovely bubble and squeak. We had a good hearty dinner.
Wednesday
A little extra time spent making an extra portion at the weekend really can give you that extra helping hand during the week when there’s kids clubs to get to, and I’ve worked late at work. I’m grateful I’ve got Moussaka for tea. I prepared it last week and froze it. Tip: Keep a list of what you have stored in the freezer, with the dates of when the meals were prepared. That way you can be sure to use up all the food you have prepared before it goes out of date!
Thursday
Once a week I try and make a big pan of soup. Not only is it a great winter warmer for the family with a nice piece of crusty bread, but it also freezes really well – and so handy to take to work for a warm lunch option. Tip: If your bread is feeling a little hard, pop it in the microwave for 15 seconds and it’ll soon be nice and soft (and warm)!
Friday
For tea tonight we’ve had pizza, its not homemade, that’s not what this campaign is about. It’s one I bought a few weeks ago it was ‘buy one get one free’. I knew we wouldn’t eat it that week so put it in the freezer straight away, especially for an occasion like tonight – the end of the week and I’m ready to relax. To go with it, we make some garlic butter and use it with the bread left over from last night for homemade garlic bread.
Saturday
Fridge starting to look a bit empty but that’s a good thing, at least I know it has all been used up and eaten. Need to get a new list done for next week’s shopping. I plan ahead and it avoids popping to the shops all the time for a few bits. I used to buy a lot of food on impulse which again was quite wasteful; I’ve noticed I do this less now, saving me time and money. Day off from an evening meal tonight. My mum is looking after the kids and I’m off with my husband and some friends for a meal. Even my mum and dad seem to be into the Love Food Hate Waste campaign now, although my dad has always been into cooking.
Sunday
Made a beef joint – delicious and there’s
meat leftover. I will probably use this up for sandwiches or another meal later in the week, maybe mini burgers or meatballs?! I also cooked extra vegetables purposely today, some for the roast, and the rest to make some lentil and vegetable soup in the week. “We’re all eating better than ever, you shouldn’t think that it’s all about leftovers and scrimping we’ve had some real treats,” says Gail. “I’ve got more adventurous as I’ve gone on too! “The biggest piece of advice I’d give to anyone is give it a go, it’s easier than you think. Even if you just practice one tip at a time, you’ll build up your confidence and soon be on your way. “I never run out of milk or bread now as I always have some spare in the freezer (don’t worry if milk goes yellow, this is perfectly normal). “All the information you need to get started is on Lovefoodhatewaste.com. It’s full of time saver recipes, leftover recipes, batch cooking recipes, and also tips on how to store particular foods.” ● If you would like to volunteer to keep a food waste diary and receive support to go on a Love Food Hate Waste journey please contact Jane Little-Smith on 0151 934 4822 or email jane.little-smith@ environmental. sefton.gov.uk
10 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Green pizza & mash H
OW do you fancy growing your own pizza and mash this Easter? They may not be the most conventional of crops, but it’s the National Wildflower Centre’s way of getting children to eat more healthily. Stuart Kitchen is the man behind Get Growing, the new community food growing and cooking skills programme in Knowsley, designed to get more people growing vegetables and learning more about cooking with them for healthy eating. “Growing your own has been a big thing this year,” explains Stuart, the centre’s horticultural project officer. “But there’s still the problem that a lot of children don’t learn about eating healthily early enough. They think they don’t like fruit and vegetables, but once they start growing them, they’ll happily eat them.” So Stuart has set about designing a series of family friendly workshops to get families growing and eating more fruit and vegetables. “We looked at the kind of foods that children tend to like – things like pizza – and thought how you could break it down into things you could grow easily in your own garden. “Obviously you can’t grow mozzarella, and wheat isn’t the simplest, but things like tomatoes, peppers, onions, basil and oregano are all great to start off with. At the workshop we’ll be making our own pizzas, then while they cook I’ll show people how to grow the ingredients, then afterwards we can eat the finished product.” As well as working in the centre, the Get Growing project is working in the community with Knowsley residents and groups, helping everyone start gardening with veg by running hands on, creative events and arranging informal training to build confidence and skills. The project is also encouraging people to cook from scratch and discover more about good, local food. To get involved or for more information call 0151 738 1913. ● IF you only grow one thing... Make it lettuce, says Stuart. “You don’t need a garden for lettuce, you can grow it on your windowsill. But don’t think you can only grow icebergs, try rocket and mixed leaves. They’re great for a fresh salad, and the more you cut them, the more they regrow, so you can keep harvesting more and more all season. A packet of seeds costs next to nothing, and you’ll save pounds on shop-bought salads in bags. And if you’re feeling adventurous, grow some tomatoes in a bucket with a few holes in the bottom for drainage to go with them. You don’t need green fingers or expensive equipment. Just give it a try and you’ll be surprised by the results.”
Growing your own is a great way to encourage children to eat their fruit and vegetables
Free Energy and Money Saving Gadget
Stop wasting around £300 a year with a free home energy check Hello, Dave here. If you’re looking for easy ways to stop wasting energy and money the Energy Saving Trust can help. So, complete your home energy check today.
· ·· · ··
We have a free eaga ShowerSmart available to every reader. Suitable for non-electric mixer showers or bath/shower mixer taps. Easy self-installation – no plumber required. It regulates the flow rate of your shower with out reducing your enjoyment, saving water and the energy used to heat hot water Could save up to £60 a year in gas and metered water bills and 21,000 litres of water/year for the average family of 4. Saves over a tonne of CO2 over its lifetime. Saving your pocket and the environment!
To apply for your FREE eaga ShowerSmart: · Go to www.eaga.com/offer · Freephone 0800 953 0033 quoting LNorth WestM PLEASE READ: Maximum 1 eaga ShowerSmart per household during the period 1 Jan 2008 - 31 March 2011. We are unable to supply an eaga ShowerSmart if you have already received one within this period. Allow 42 days for delivery. Offer available to Great Britain residents only and is subject to availability. 6903
Firms going green . . . ● AS Liverpool moves beyond the Year of
Call 0800 512 012 or visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/check
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
the Environment the green agenda remains a key business priority. Businesses have realised the need to cut their carbon emissions, while still staying profitable. Maresa Molloy, head of policy and information at Liverpool Chamber, explains: “There’s a need to develop green skills in Merseyside within the environmental technology sector but also among “ordinary” businesses that need to address this issue. We’re keen to build on the success of Year of the Environment and ensure businesses are aware of the
opportunities to increase profits and reduce waste.” Last year Liverpool Chamber delivered environmental management training to a group of high-profile organisations including Liverpool One, the Plus Dane Housing Group and the UK Borders Agency. Following the success of this development, they plan to repeat the training programme. Applicants may be eligible for up to 60% funding from the Skillworks programme subject to the fund’s qualifying criteria. To register your interest for the EMS Club, contact Kush.Thakar@liverpool chamber.org.uk or telephone 0151 227 1234.
NEWS 7
Teens make fresh start F
RESH vegetables grown in Knowsley by young people who have been in trouble are being used to help others eat better food. The borough's Youth Offending Service has allotments at Bowring Park, Huyton, and Holland Road, Halewood, as part of its work to change the behaviour of the people it helps. The produce the young people grow is either given to charities and victims of crime or sold to raise money for the victim support service. Last year the surplus vegetables were donated to the Café Society project, in Stockbridge Village. And it’s hoped these donations will continue this year. Café Society helps people cook well and use healthy ingredients by bringing in professionals for them to work with. The food is then sold in the café. Knowsley’s Executive Director for Children and Family Services, Damien Allen, says: “The allotments give these young people a chance to give something back. “The things they grow help the wider community and Café Society is doing great,
The dig for victory
practical work to help people change what they eat.” Lucy Alcock, the project manager at Café Society is delighted with the link up. “This is a real bonus for us and the local residents – fresh produce grown in the area by young people who are trying to change. “Some of the young people on the allotments live in Stockbridge Village so we’re hoping they might join one of our courses and learn the best way to cook the things they grow.” ● To find out more about Café Society contact Lucy Alcock on 07791 455593 or email villagefarmcooks@hotmail.com
Café Society’s Audrey Cousins, left, Sheila Murphy, Lucy Alcock and Mandy Westwell with the vegetables from the Youth Offending Service
● COMMUNITY Payback offenders are helping to create new allotment plots from overgrown waste land in Kirkby. The project, spearheaded by Knowsley Council working in partnership with Merseyside Probation Trust and local allotment holders, has seen 24 Community Payback workers clearing and improving the site at Delaware allotments in Kirkby. The work, which resulted in the removal of more than one tonne of rubbish and brambles, has now cleared the way for Knowsley Council and Delaware plot holders to bid for funding to create new allotment plots for use by the local community. John Flaherty, Knowsley Council Service Director for Neighbourhood Delivery, says: “The team have cleared brambles along the entrances and made the site more inviting for plot holders and visitors. Community Payback is a great form of visible justice for our communities and this project will bring real benefits to current and future allotment holders in Knowsley.”
WIN FREE LOFT INSULATION FROM THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST IT’S been the coldest winter in 30 years... So with temperatures rising and spring in the air it’s a good time to prepare your home for the next cold snap. There are lots of simple ways to make your home more energy efficient and save money too. Half of heat loss in a typical home is through the walls and loft so it's worth checking whether yours are insulated. Insulating your loft could save around £150 a year. To help you on your way the Energy Saving Trust is offering five lucky people in Merseyside the chance to kick-start their energy spring clean by installing loft insulation free of charge. To stand a chance of winning the prize all you have to do is answer the question in our competition panel, on the right.
WIN
LOFT INSULATION COMPETITION Q: How much could you save each year by insulating your loft? A: £150. B: £75. C: £50
NAME: ADDRESS: PHONE NO:
ANSWER:
I WOULD LIKE TO BE CONTACTED BY THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST WITH MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SAVING ENERGY Send your answer with your name, address and contact telephone numbers to: Jade Wright, It’s Our World/Energy Saving Trust Competition, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB. Five correct answers will be picked at random once the competition closes. Competition closes April 9. Usual Trinity Mirror Competition Rules apply – for details see www.itsourworld.co.uk. Size does matter when it comes to loft insulation
8 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Climate change . . . for or the better
A
S WELL as the brightly wrapped Easter eggs and cute chocolate bunnies, why not choose a gift which could help change someone’s life this Easter? From life-saving mosquito nets and clean water taps to income-generating beehives and flood survival kits, Present Aid’s catalogue is bursting with innovative virtual gifts designed to directly benefit some of the world’s poorest people. Take their new Chocolate Starter Kit, for example, specially created to help small-scale Nicaraguan coffee farmers successfully adapt to the potentially devastating impact of climate change. Soaring temperatures and erratic rains linked to global warming and deforestation have made it increasingly difficult to harvest highquality coffee there, but the kit’s hardy cocoa seedlings and expert training means Nicaraguan farmers can now start growing heat-loving organic cocoa instead. Miguel Angel Zelaya, 48, is one such farmer who lives with his wife Aurora, 46, their five children and two grandchildren in the picturesque hilltop village of Santa Rosa, El Cua, in the country’s north-central highlands. “Coffee has thrived here since my grandparents’ time, but the effect of recent changeable weather patterns means it is now far too hot to grow coffee properly and our yields have already dropped to about one-sixth of what they were just a few years ago,” Miguel explains. “Over the past decade, the environment in Nicaragua has changed beyond all recognition and it is nearly impossible to predict what the weather will be like on any given day,” he continues, pausing only to offer more chilli-soaked tortillas and glance at the shimmering heat-haze fringing the surrounding peaks. “Landslides, hurricanes and floods happen more frequently in some areas of the country but in other parts it is uncomfortably hot and humid, rainy then dry, cloudy then cold. Who knows anymore?” he shrugs. “Because of our worsening coffee harvests, my wife and I sat down one day to do our sums, and we soon realised if this hot weather continues, there will be no coffee farms left by the time my children grow up. “Obviously we were very frightened by this discovery, but then we got our cocoa
seeds and training with Christian Aid’s partner Soppexcca. I am pleased to say early yields are very promising and we are optimistic about the future,” Miguel concludes, grinning widely through silver-plated teeth. As the matriarch of the Zelaya family, Miguel’s wife Aurora could not agree more. “The extra income we are already earning is a huge blessing,” she says. “Before the cocoa came along, we did not know if we could afford to send our youngest children to secondary school, but now that is a real possibility and it makes me happy to know they have a far better chance at a good life than we once thought. “I like cocoa for that reason and, although I have never tasted real chocolate myself, I am told Westerners love it, so it is win-win, eh?” she laughs loudly. Win-win indeed. Initial cocoa harvests have been so promising in recent years that Soppexcca, a collective of 18 Fairtrade-certified coffee-farming cooperatives, now hopes to start commercialising locally-grown organic cocoa as soon as next year. “Climate change is having a huge effect on everyone here,” says Fatima Ismael, pioneering director of Soppexcca. “This year’s rains are late yet again, for example, sparking all too familiar fears in the towns and villages about crop failure and the resulting decline in food and vital income for rural families. “However, the good news is cocoa plants flourish in this hotter weather. They can be grown at the same time as the coffee’s traditional ‘dead’ period and the latest cocoa harvests offer a real, tangible glimmer of hope for people here. “Seriously, if you are a bit stuck for something to buy your family or friends this Christmas, just remember a little really does go a long way here,” she smiles. Visit the Present Aid website to see the gifts at www.present aid.org
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
At last the weather is brightening up and the evenings are getting longer. Here are a few environmentally-friendly seasonal treats to put a smile on your face this spring
Christian Aid abseiler Junade Khan
● IF YOU fancy a more adventurous way to raise money to help those affected by climate change, try one of Christian Aid’s new Mega Mersey Abseils – a 50m descent down the Mersey tunnel ventilation station, in Birkenhead. At the first event, 29 awesome abseilers made it to the ground with smiles on their faces as they raised more than £5,500 to help Christian Aid put an end to poverty. “It felt so amazing to be doing something exciting, different and adventurous, but it felt even better to be raising money for people around the world who so desperately need it,” says brave abseiler Joanna Boyes. “It is a life experience I will not forget.” Also showing his support on the day was former Hollyoaks actor Junade Khan, who played Ash Roy in the soap. “Merseyside is a part of the world I know well from my time in Hollyoaks, so I joined others from the region and took part in this abseil to help people in some of the world’s poorest countries,” he says. If you are interested in finding out more about Christian Aid’s extensive list of fundraising events, visit www.christianaid.org.uk/events, call 01925 582826 or email events@christian-aid.org
● COMPOSTING suddenly got much more stylish, thanks to the new collection from Lakeland. We love the Peely Bin, an enamel coated, stainless steel mini lidded bin for scraps and peels. It is a more attractive way to store kitchen scraps and peelings destined for the compost heap. Ref 10879, www.lakeland.co.uk, £14.99. While you are there, check out their ingenious Upside Down Tomato Planters. Self-watering, they keep out of the way and out of reach of most pests. You do not have to garden standing on your head to use this topsy-turvy tomato planter – you just need somewhere to hang it up. It works well in a greenhouse, on a patio or even in a porch. Your tomato plants will flourish because all the energy is used to produce big roots and bumper crops instead of being used to support the plants as they grow upwards. Ref 51185, www.lakeland.co.uk, £14.99.
● CYCLE Speke is celebrating spring on Easter Sunday with a special bike ride. The ride goes to the National Wildflower Centre, in Court Hey Park, Huyton, and those taking part will receive a little Easter treat from Cycle Speke. Following the old railway line, the ride goes along the tree-lined Liverpool loop line, seeing spring flowers along the way. It leaves Lifestyles Austin Rawlinson, in Parklands, Speke, at 2pm on Sunday. Those taking part will have some fun, meet other people, get some exercise and see signs of spring everywhere. It will be suitable for all who have not cycled in a while and will be at a leisurely pace.
Aurora Elena Blandon harvesting a ripe cocoa pod while her husband Miguel Zelaya watches in the background on their farm in Nicaragua
● GET creative with Build-A-Bear
Workshop.
The Liverpool One store has a great range of wildlife-inspired soft toys to get little ones in the mood for Easter. Each of the bears can be stuffed, dressed and named before taking them home. Go to www.buildabear.co.uk.
NEWS 9
● THESE pretty bands are a guilt-free way to show you care. CRED’s range of gold jewellery has been certified Fairtrade and Fairmined. This is part of a drive which will see millions of impoverished artisan small-scale miners around the world be able to receive independent certification and recognition for their efforts, along with a fairer price. CRED are working with mining partner Oro Verde. Their jewellery includes a 10% social premium to support the education and development of entire communities, and a further 5% Ecological Premium will be payable to miners who extract gold without chemicals. Wedding bands, from £200, at www.credjewellery.com.
8 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Climate change . . . for or the better
A
S WELL as the brightly wrapped Easter eggs and cute chocolate bunnies, why not choose a gift which could help change someone’s life this Easter? From life-saving mosquito nets and clean water taps to income-generating beehives and flood survival kits, Present Aid’s catalogue is bursting with innovative virtual gifts designed to directly benefit some of the world’s poorest people. Take their new Chocolate Starter Kit, for example, specially created to help small-scale Nicaraguan coffee farmers successfully adapt to the potentially devastating impact of climate change. Soaring temperatures and erratic rains linked to global warming and deforestation have made it increasingly difficult to harvest highquality coffee there, but the kit’s hardy cocoa seedlings and expert training means Nicaraguan farmers can now start growing heat-loving organic cocoa instead. Miguel Angel Zelaya, 48, is one such farmer who lives with his wife Aurora, 46, their five children and two grandchildren in the picturesque hilltop village of Santa Rosa, El Cua, in the country’s north-central highlands. “Coffee has thrived here since my grandparents’ time, but the effect of recent changeable weather patterns means it is now far too hot to grow coffee properly and our yields have already dropped to about one-sixth of what they were just a few years ago,” Miguel explains. “Over the past decade, the environment in Nicaragua has changed beyond all recognition and it is nearly impossible to predict what the weather will be like on any given day,” he continues, pausing only to offer more chilli-soaked tortillas and glance at the shimmering heat-haze fringing the surrounding peaks. “Landslides, hurricanes and floods happen more frequently in some areas of the country but in other parts it is uncomfortably hot and humid, rainy then dry, cloudy then cold. Who knows anymore?” he shrugs. “Because of our worsening coffee harvests, my wife and I sat down one day to do our sums, and we soon realised if this hot weather continues, there will be no coffee farms left by the time my children grow up. “Obviously we were very frightened by this discovery, but then we got our cocoa
seeds and training with Christian Aid’s partner Soppexcca. I am pleased to say early yields are very promising and we are optimistic about the future,” Miguel concludes, grinning widely through silver-plated teeth. As the matriarch of the Zelaya family, Miguel’s wife Aurora could not agree more. “The extra income we are already earning is a huge blessing,” she says. “Before the cocoa came along, we did not know if we could afford to send our youngest children to secondary school, but now that is a real possibility and it makes me happy to know they have a far better chance at a good life than we once thought. “I like cocoa for that reason and, although I have never tasted real chocolate myself, I am told Westerners love it, so it is win-win, eh?” she laughs loudly. Win-win indeed. Initial cocoa harvests have been so promising in recent years that Soppexcca, a collective of 18 Fairtrade-certified coffee-farming cooperatives, now hopes to start commercialising locally-grown organic cocoa as soon as next year. “Climate change is having a huge effect on everyone here,” says Fatima Ismael, pioneering director of Soppexcca. “This year’s rains are late yet again, for example, sparking all too familiar fears in the towns and villages about crop failure and the resulting decline in food and vital income for rural families. “However, the good news is cocoa plants flourish in this hotter weather. They can be grown at the same time as the coffee’s traditional ‘dead’ period and the latest cocoa harvests offer a real, tangible glimmer of hope for people here. “Seriously, if you are a bit stuck for something to buy your family or friends this Christmas, just remember a little really does go a long way here,” she smiles. Visit the Present Aid website to see the gifts at www.present aid.org
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
At last the weather is brightening up and the evenings are getting longer. Here are a few environmentally-friendly seasonal treats to put a smile on your face this spring
Christian Aid abseiler Junade Khan
● IF YOU fancy a more adventurous way to raise money to help those affected by climate change, try one of Christian Aid’s new Mega Mersey Abseils – a 50m descent down the Mersey tunnel ventilation station, in Birkenhead. At the first event, 29 awesome abseilers made it to the ground with smiles on their faces as they raised more than £5,500 to help Christian Aid put an end to poverty. “It felt so amazing to be doing something exciting, different and adventurous, but it felt even better to be raising money for people around the world who so desperately need it,” says brave abseiler Joanna Boyes. “It is a life experience I will not forget.” Also showing his support on the day was former Hollyoaks actor Junade Khan, who played Ash Roy in the soap. “Merseyside is a part of the world I know well from my time in Hollyoaks, so I joined others from the region and took part in this abseil to help people in some of the world’s poorest countries,” he says. If you are interested in finding out more about Christian Aid’s extensive list of fundraising events, visit www.christianaid.org.uk/events, call 01925 582826 or email events@christian-aid.org
● COMPOSTING suddenly got much more stylish, thanks to the new collection from Lakeland. We love the Peely Bin, an enamel coated, stainless steel mini lidded bin for scraps and peels. It is a more attractive way to store kitchen scraps and peelings destined for the compost heap. Ref 10879, www.lakeland.co.uk, £14.99. While you are there, check out their ingenious Upside Down Tomato Planters. Self-watering, they keep out of the way and out of reach of most pests. You do not have to garden standing on your head to use this topsy-turvy tomato planter – you just need somewhere to hang it up. It works well in a greenhouse, on a patio or even in a porch. Your tomato plants will flourish because all the energy is used to produce big roots and bumper crops instead of being used to support the plants as they grow upwards. Ref 51185, www.lakeland.co.uk, £14.99.
● CYCLE Speke is celebrating spring on Easter Sunday with a special bike ride. The ride goes to the National Wildflower Centre, in Court Hey Park, Huyton, and those taking part will receive a little Easter treat from Cycle Speke. Following the old railway line, the ride goes along the tree-lined Liverpool loop line, seeing spring flowers along the way. It leaves Lifestyles Austin Rawlinson, in Parklands, Speke, at 2pm on Sunday. Those taking part will have some fun, meet other people, get some exercise and see signs of spring everywhere. It will be suitable for all who have not cycled in a while and will be at a leisurely pace.
Aurora Elena Blandon harvesting a ripe cocoa pod while her husband Miguel Zelaya watches in the background on their farm in Nicaragua
● GET creative with Build-A-Bear
Workshop.
The Liverpool One store has a great range of wildlife-inspired soft toys to get little ones in the mood for Easter. Each of the bears can be stuffed, dressed and named before taking them home. Go to www.buildabear.co.uk.
NEWS 9
● THESE pretty bands are a guilt-free way to show you care. CRED’s range of gold jewellery has been certified Fairtrade and Fairmined. This is part of a drive which will see millions of impoverished artisan small-scale miners around the world be able to receive independent certification and recognition for their efforts, along with a fairer price. CRED are working with mining partner Oro Verde. Their jewellery includes a 10% social premium to support the education and development of entire communities, and a further 5% Ecological Premium will be payable to miners who extract gold without chemicals. Wedding bands, from £200, at www.credjewellery.com.
10 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Green pizza & mash H
OW do you fancy growing your own pizza and mash this Easter? They may not be the most conventional of crops, but it’s the National Wildflower Centre’s way of getting children to eat more healthily. Stuart Kitchen is the man behind Get Growing, the new community food growing and cooking skills programme in Knowsley, designed to get more people growing vegetables and learning more about cooking with them for healthy eating. “Growing your own has been a big thing this year,” explains Stuart, the centre’s horticultural project officer. “But there’s still the problem that a lot of children don’t learn about eating healthily early enough. They think they don’t like fruit and vegetables, but once they start growing them, they’ll happily eat them.” So Stuart has set about designing a series of family friendly workshops to get families growing and eating more fruit and vegetables. “We looked at the kind of foods that children tend to like – things like pizza – and thought how you could break it down into things you could grow easily in your own garden. “Obviously you can’t grow mozzarella, and wheat isn’t the simplest, but things like tomatoes, peppers, onions, basil and oregano are all great to start off with. At the workshop we’ll be making our own pizzas, then while they cook I’ll show people how to grow the ingredients, then afterwards we can eat the finished product.” As well as working in the centre, the Get Growing project is working in the community with Knowsley residents and groups, helping everyone start gardening with veg by running hands on, creative events and arranging informal training to build confidence and skills. The project is also encouraging people to cook from scratch and discover more about good, local food. To get involved or for more information call 0151 738 1913. ● IF you only grow one thing... Make it lettuce, says Stuart. “You don’t need a garden for lettuce, you can grow it on your windowsill. But don’t think you can only grow icebergs, try rocket and mixed leaves. They’re great for a fresh salad, and the more you cut them, the more they regrow, so you can keep harvesting more and more all season. A packet of seeds costs next to nothing, and you’ll save pounds on shop-bought salads in bags. And if you’re feeling adventurous, grow some tomatoes in a bucket with a few holes in the bottom for drainage to go with them. You don’t need green fingers or expensive equipment. Just give it a try and you’ll be surprised by the results.”
Growing your own is a great way to encourage children to eat their fruit and vegetables
Free Energy and Money Saving Gadget
Stop wasting around £300 a year with a free home energy check Hello, Dave here. If you’re looking for easy ways to stop wasting energy and money the Energy Saving Trust can help. So, complete your home energy check today.
· ·· · ··
We have a free eaga ShowerSmart available to every reader. Suitable for non-electric mixer showers or bath/shower mixer taps. Easy self-installation – no plumber required. It regulates the flow rate of your shower with out reducing your enjoyment, saving water and the energy used to heat hot water Could save up to £60 a year in gas and metered water bills and 21,000 litres of water/year for the average family of 4. Saves over a tonne of CO2 over its lifetime. Saving your pocket and the environment!
To apply for your FREE eaga ShowerSmart: · Go to www.eaga.com/offer · Freephone 0800 953 0033 quoting LNorth WestM PLEASE READ: Maximum 1 eaga ShowerSmart per household during the period 1 Jan 2008 - 31 March 2011. We are unable to supply an eaga ShowerSmart if you have already received one within this period. Allow 42 days for delivery. Offer available to Great Britain residents only and is subject to availability. 6903
Firms going green . . . ● AS Liverpool moves beyond the Year of
Call 0800 512 012 or visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/check
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
the Environment the green agenda remains a key business priority. Businesses have realised the need to cut their carbon emissions, while still staying profitable. Maresa Molloy, head of policy and information at Liverpool Chamber, explains: “There’s a need to develop green skills in Merseyside within the environmental technology sector but also among “ordinary” businesses that need to address this issue. We’re keen to build on the success of Year of the Environment and ensure businesses are aware of the
opportunities to increase profits and reduce waste.” Last year Liverpool Chamber delivered environmental management training to a group of high-profile organisations including Liverpool One, the Plus Dane Housing Group and the UK Borders Agency. Following the success of this development, they plan to repeat the training programme. Applicants may be eligible for up to 60% funding from the Skillworks programme subject to the fund’s qualifying criteria. To register your interest for the EMS Club, contact Kush.Thakar@liverpool chamber.org.uk or telephone 0151 227 1234.
NEWS 7
Teens make fresh start F
RESH vegetables grown in Knowsley by young people who have been in trouble are being used to help others eat better food. The borough's Youth Offending Service has allotments at Bowring Park, Huyton, and Holland Road, Halewood, as part of its work to change the behaviour of the people it helps. The produce the young people grow is either given to charities and victims of crime or sold to raise money for the victim support service. Last year the surplus vegetables were donated to the Café Society project, in Stockbridge Village. And it’s hoped these donations will continue this year. Café Society helps people cook well and use healthy ingredients by bringing in professionals for them to work with. The food is then sold in the café. Knowsley’s Executive Director for Children and Family Services, Damien Allen, says: “The allotments give these young people a chance to give something back. “The things they grow help the wider community and Café Society is doing great,
The dig for victory
practical work to help people change what they eat.” Lucy Alcock, the project manager at Café Society is delighted with the link up. “This is a real bonus for us and the local residents – fresh produce grown in the area by young people who are trying to change. “Some of the young people on the allotments live in Stockbridge Village so we’re hoping they might join one of our courses and learn the best way to cook the things they grow.” ● To find out more about Café Society contact Lucy Alcock on 07791 455593 or email villagefarmcooks@hotmail.com
Café Society’s Audrey Cousins, left, Sheila Murphy, Lucy Alcock and Mandy Westwell with the vegetables from the Youth Offending Service
● COMMUNITY Payback offenders are helping to create new allotment plots from overgrown waste land in Kirkby. The project, spearheaded by Knowsley Council working in partnership with Merseyside Probation Trust and local allotment holders, has seen 24 Community Payback workers clearing and improving the site at Delaware allotments in Kirkby. The work, which resulted in the removal of more than one tonne of rubbish and brambles, has now cleared the way for Knowsley Council and Delaware plot holders to bid for funding to create new allotment plots for use by the local community. John Flaherty, Knowsley Council Service Director for Neighbourhood Delivery, says: “The team have cleared brambles along the entrances and made the site more inviting for plot holders and visitors. Community Payback is a great form of visible justice for our communities and this project will bring real benefits to current and future allotment holders in Knowsley.”
WIN FREE LOFT INSULATION FROM THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST IT’S been the coldest winter in 30 years... So with temperatures rising and spring in the air it’s a good time to prepare your home for the next cold snap. There are lots of simple ways to make your home more energy efficient and save money too. Half of heat loss in a typical home is through the walls and loft so it's worth checking whether yours are insulated. Insulating your loft could save around £150 a year. To help you on your way the Energy Saving Trust is offering five lucky people in Merseyside the chance to kick-start their energy spring clean by installing loft insulation free of charge. To stand a chance of winning the prize all you have to do is answer the question in our competition panel, on the right.
WIN
LOFT INSULATION COMPETITION Q: How much could you save each year by insulating your loft? A: £150. B: £75. C: £50
NAME: ADDRESS: PHONE NO:
ANSWER:
I WOULD LIKE TO BE CONTACTED BY THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST WITH MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SAVING ENERGY Send your answer with your name, address and contact telephone numbers to: Jade Wright, It’s Our World/Energy Saving Trust Competition, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB. Five correct answers will be picked at random once the competition closes. Competition closes April 9. Usual Trinity Mirror Competition Rules apply – for details see www.itsourworld.co.uk. Size does matter when it comes to loft insulation
6 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Jolly green giants! O
NCE upon a time there was a spoiled princess who forced a besotted prince to find a magic singing ringing tree. After many months of travelling he eventually found the tree, and then the story began to unfold. But you don’t have to go to those lengths. It’s now a permanent attraction at Wigg Island in Runcor n. And its namesake at the popular nature reserve is a far happier place altogether. Local artist Angela Sidwell was commissioned to work with the schools and community groups to
make and design a ringing tree which can be found in the Troll Trail nature area at Wigg Island. The project involved two local schools – Runcor n All Saints and The Brow – along with Upton Conservation Group, Halton Day Services and the Guides and several groups of brownies from Runcor n East, 10th Halton, 7th & 10th Runcor n. All groups have created a series of designs which will be used and incorporated onto metal oak leaves. The leaves will adorn the top branches of an Oak tree hanging alongside ringing bells.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
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NEWS 11
My Love Food Hate Waste Diary... Gail Mooney keeps the family meals healthy and tasty ... with help from Love Food Hate Waste
Halton Borough Council's Executive Member for Parks and Countryside Cllr Phil Harris, says: “The young people and groups involved in the project have worked really hard and produced a wonderful new attraction for the park.” The Friends of Wigg Island Community Park and Halton Borough Council secured funding from The Mersey Forest and Ineos Chlor to create the arts project. All participants who have been involved with the project were invited to attend the unveiling of the tree to the public.
The Ringing Tree at Wigg Island, Runcorn. Inset: Halton Day Services members and helpers join Ranger Bill Morton at the site
COMPETITION
Be a good egg this Easter! Holly Barnabas, 9, from Cronton CofE School – and pet Miffy – with a selection of ‘no plastic’ Easter eggs boxed in recycled cardboard
KNOWSLEY Council is encouraging residents to “Think Green” this Easter with some handy hints and tips for local residents. REDUCE ● Make an Easter basket with smaller eggs with less or no plastic packaging. ● Look for Easter eggs with
recycled cardboard ● A tree or plant makes a good Easter gift and produces no waste. REUSE ● Use old Easter egg plastic packaging as a mould to make your own Easter eggs ~at home. ● Make your own Easter cards
using junk materials. ● Save the stamps from your Easter post and donate these to charities. RECYCLE ● Be a good egg and recycle all of your Easter cards and envelopes. ● Recycle all your Easter egg packaging.
W
E all want to eat healthier meals and save money, but in a busy week it’s sometimes hard to find the time. But, as Gail Mooney from Wallasey shows, it’s all about building up a routine. Gail, 35, has been keeping a food diary to show how cutting food waste is simpler than it seems. “I first heard about Love Food Hate Waste in work last year, it has now become my natural way of thinking,” she explains. “I thought I’d give it a go after learning I could save up to £50 a month and reduce the amount of good food I’m wasting. Anything that saves money has to be worth a try, but I found that I’ve really enjoyed some of the recipes, and tips suggested. “At first, it does take a bit of time, but it doesn’t have to be a chore and once you get going it actually saves you time. “I’ve enjoyed making different meals and thinking of new and creative meals we can have for tea. Having two young children it’s also good to get them eating a variety of foods – and get them in the kitchen. It’s amazing how many kids don’t ever help out in the kitche, so hopefully its an education thing as well.”
Monday
I made a very large pan of Scouse so that anything leftover could be stored in
● SHARE your ideas, tips and recipes for reducing food waste . . . the top five will receive a Love Food Hate Waste kit to help you to reduce your food waste. To enter email jade.wright@liverpool.com. Closing date Friday, April 9. Tupperware tubs. At £1 for 8 at the pound shop they are handy and ever so economical.
Tuesday
I made chicken pie with meat from Sunday’s roast. I always keep the essentials in the cupboard and fridge, so with a few bits to liven up the pie and some leftover veg (also from the roast) for a lovely bubble and squeak. We had a good hearty dinner.
Wednesday
A little extra time spent making an extra portion at the weekend really can give you that extra helping hand during the week when there’s kids clubs to get to, and I’ve worked late at work. I’m grateful I’ve got Moussaka for tea. I prepared it last week and froze it. Tip: Keep a list of what you have stored in the freezer, with the dates of when the meals were prepared. That way you can be sure to use up all the food you have prepared before it goes out of date!
Thursday
Once a week I try and make a big pan of soup. Not only is it a great winter warmer for the family with a nice piece of crusty bread, but it also freezes really well – and so handy to take to work for a warm lunch option. Tip: If your bread is feeling a little hard, pop it in the microwave for 15 seconds and it’ll soon be nice and soft (and warm)!
Friday
For tea tonight we’ve had pizza, its not homemade, that’s not what this campaign is about. It’s one I bought a few weeks ago it was ‘buy one get one free’. I knew we wouldn’t eat it that week so put it in the freezer straight away, especially for an occasion like tonight – the end of the week and I’m ready to relax. To go with it, we make some garlic butter and use it with the bread left over from last night for homemade garlic bread.
Saturday
Fridge starting to look a bit empty but that’s a good thing, at least I know it has all been used up and eaten. Need to get a new list done for next week’s shopping. I plan ahead and it avoids popping to the shops all the time for a few bits. I used to buy a lot of food on impulse which again was quite wasteful; I’ve noticed I do this less now, saving me time and money. Day off from an evening meal tonight. My mum is looking after the kids and I’m off with my husband and some friends for a meal. Even my mum and dad seem to be into the Love Food Hate Waste campaign now, although my dad has always been into cooking.
Sunday
Made a beef joint – delicious and there’s
meat leftover. I will probably use this up for sandwiches or another meal later in the week, maybe mini burgers or meatballs?! I also cooked extra vegetables purposely today, some for the roast, and the rest to make some lentil and vegetable soup in the week. “We’re all eating better than ever, you shouldn’t think that it’s all about leftovers and scrimping we’ve had some real treats,” says Gail. “I’ve got more adventurous as I’ve gone on too! “The biggest piece of advice I’d give to anyone is give it a go, it’s easier than you think. Even if you just practice one tip at a time, you’ll build up your confidence and soon be on your way. “I never run out of milk or bread now as I always have some spare in the freezer (don’t worry if milk goes yellow, this is perfectly normal). “All the information you need to get started is on Lovefoodhatewaste.com. It’s full of time saver recipes, leftover recipes, batch cooking recipes, and also tips on how to store particular foods.” ● If you would like to volunteer to keep a food waste diary and receive support to go on a Love Food Hate Waste journey please contact Jane Little-Smith on 0151 934 4822 or email jane.little-smith@ environmental. sefton.gov.uk
12 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Clean and green!
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Monday, March 29, 2010
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NEWS 5
A PROUD HERITAGE
W
E all know that public transport is a greener way to travel, but it seems that Merseytravel are going the extra mile. Their annual environmental sustainability report shows: ● A 14% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions since 2005/6. ● 100% of all electricity purchased from renewable or highly efficient sources. ● 32% reduction in water use since 2005/6. ● 104 tonnes of waste recycled in 2008/9. Merseytravel have also become a signatory of the Nottingham Declaration, a pledge to address the causes of climate change, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its own activities. At the same time Merseytravel achieved the Carbon Trust Standard, an accreditation given to
The North West has above average CO2 emissions We’re committed to changing this by helping you, both in the workplace & at home, to make a positive difference
organisations taking real action to reduce their direct impact on climate change. Neil Scales, chief executive of Merseytravel, says: “We’re committed to protecting the environment while delivering a world class transport system to serve passengers across Merseyside. “To achieve this we recognise that the sites we manage, the services we supply and the decisions of our staff have an effect on the environment and we aim to integrate sustainability into the core of our work, minimising the impact of our operations on the environment. “We also aim to work with suppliers and contractors with an environmental ethos like our own, for example the company supplying the cleaning products to Hatton Garden takes back their plastic containers and has them recycled into children’s playground furniture.”
Animals from a majestic shire horse to tiny chicks with everything in between, particularly new born lambs, are a source of great fascination to children (and adults too!)
THE original Home Farm at Cro xteth Hall and Country Park was establish ed in the mid 1800s. The Home Farm was essential element of the estate from an Victorian times to the death of the Earl in 1972. It provided meat, eggs last and dairy produce for the Molyneux and the estate. Home Farm remfamily working farm but today is mainlyains a a visitor attraction. Home Farm was only one of man farms on the original estate whic y stretched from Halewood in the h once Hightown in the north. And the south to tenanted farms provided incomemany support the Earl’s opulent lifestyleto of the rest of the land around the . Much Hall was used for sport. After the death of the last Earl the Park, including Home Farm, was bequeathed to Liverpool City Cou ncil which continues to manage the Farm as a visitor attraction. The farm has a Manager who is supported by a team of eight staff. Today the buildings, pastures and woodlands remain one of the best preserved examples of an Edwardi Country Estate and are now an an important heritage site. The farm has an extensive edu programme delivering National cational Curriculum topics related to agri food and farming to schools fromculture, Liverpool area and surrounding the boroughs.
CREATIVE YOUNGSTERS ARE LEADING A BLITZ ON DOG FOULING
The Big Compost Giveaway!
As a big thank you to the residents of Liverpool, we are offering FREE compost that has been made from the green waste that is collected from Liverpool households. Please bring your own bag and shovels, and help yourself to some peat free organic compost to help your garden grow! The Compost Giveaways will be held at the following locations between 9.00am & 12noon: Saturday 17 April
Clarke Gardens, off Springwood Avenue, L25
Saturday 15 May
Walton Hall Park, main car park off Blackthorne Road
Saturday 12 June
Sefton Park, car park area off Croxteth Drive
Pupils from Arnot St Mary’s Church of England Primary School have designed hard hitting posters urging owners to clean up after their canines. Despite the best efforts of the city council’s street cleansing team, irresponsible dog owners continue to allow their dogs to foul outside the school. Now, the passionate youngsters have joined the council’s crusade to educate local dog owners on the dangers of failing to ‘scoop their dog’s poop’. Gary Shaw, head teacher of the school, said: “Dog fouling around the school has been a problem for years and the youngsters have just accepted it as a way of life. I’m delighted the council is tackling this issue head on and, hopefully, after all the children’s hard work, people will learn to clean up their dog’s mess.”
Saturday 18 September Croxteth Park, car park off Oak Lane and Muirhead Avenue Saturday 16 October For sponsorship or advertising opportunities contact: Neil Johnson It’s Our World Account Manager Telephone: 0151 472 2705 Email: neil.johnson@liverpool.com
Clarke Gardens, off Springwood Avenue, L25
Fines up to £1000 are now being enforced To report any dog fouling call 0151 233 3001
4 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
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It’s animal magic!
NEWS 13
Monday, March 29, 2010
Work, rest and . . . recycle
Waste not, want not, is the message you are never too young to learn
Dr
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ROXTETH’S Home Farm is one of Liverpool’s most popular visitor attractions, a place for families to come and see farm animals in a traditional countryside setting just minutes from the city. But not all of the thousands of visitors will realise that it also plays a valuable role in conserving some of Britain’s rarest animals – a living museum for farming. Home Farm is much more than a pet’s corner. It is one of only 14 Approved Conservation Farm Parks in Britain performing a vital role in conserving genetic diversity in farm animals. Its conservation role can be traced to the birth of modern agriculture when farmers developed breeds that were suited to their particular needs. Often these were most suited to a particular part of Britain – such as the shaggy Highland cattle, able to weather life in the Scottish Highlands, or a Ronaldsay sheep, bred to survive on a diet of seaweed in their home on Orkney. Others met different needs. Tiny Dexter cattle were ideal for smallholders, supplying a family with milk and meat from a small plot. Longhorn cattle and giant Shire horses were bred to pull heavy carts and ploughs. But the needs of farming today are different from those of our forebears. Not only have tractors replaced horses, modern farming uses just a few breeds, abandoning the older breeds that don’t meet current needs. These are specialised for high volume production. For example almost all of our milk comes from Holstein cattle, the familiar black
Reduce your waste line and white dairy cows. No wonder when a pedigree animal can produce 14,298 pints in one year – that’s 39 pints a day. Traditional breeds went into rapid decline, a trend that has been reversed by the work of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, founded in 1973 (www.rbst. org.uk) Croxteth’s Home Farm was established as a Rare Breeds Centre by Liverpool Museum in 1982, set up to show visitors a working farm and to conserve historic farm breeds. The farm keeps a number of breeds that have historical links to the Earl of Sefton’s estate, such as Dexter and Redpoll cattle, but also some of the rarest breeds in Britain. There are fewer Irish Moiled cattle in the world than there are Giant Pandas. And Croxteth has one of the largest herds in the UK. The traditional setting of Croxteth’s farm belies the hi-tech modern approach to breeding.
DNA samples are used to track the genetic fingerprint and ancestry of the animals, ensuring that appropriate bloodlines are kept and future breeding programmed. Heterozygosity, alleles and back-crossing are as much part of the farming vocabulary as muck and milking. The rarity of stock means that artificial insemination, using frozen semen from bulls from many miles away, is commonplace, ensuring the survival of the breeds but also providing a pretty constant supply of new animals for the public to see. Rare breeds are not only conserved for historic reasons. Many people are now seeking high quality from their food, something which these breeds can supply. The BBC’s Food and Farming Awards, the “Oscars” for food production, are regularly won by rare breed meat producers where quality, rather than quantity is
the aim. Quality Rare Breed meat features on the menus of many top restaurants. More modern breeds may produce huge volumes of milk and meat but they also require a high input to achieve them, consuming concentrated specialist food. The old breeds also ensure a broad gene pool, avoiding the dangers of over specialisation which can leave animals vulnerable to disease and inherited conditions. The ability of many rare breeds to flourish on poorer quality grazing has also led to their extensive use for conservation grazing, maintaining nature reserves by using cows, sheep, ponies or even pigs to naturally care for a wild environment. The uniqueness and value of rare breeds means that they can command high prices. Selling rare breed animals for breeding or meat boosts Croxteth’s income. W6ell bred bulls will sell for thousands of pounds.
Find out ways that you can reduce, reuse or recycle your waste by visiting: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
M
ANY of us in our home lives class ourselves as committed recyclers. Our local authorities have helped with this by providing kerbside collections for bottles, paper and garden waste. We have now also taken to carrying spare bags around with us for our shopping. But how many of us have seen this approach transferred to our place of work? Initial results from the Environment Agency Commercial and Industrial waste survey show that the amount of waste being recycled has increased from 35.3% in 2006, to 59.8% in 2009. This is great news, but more needs to be done. The amount of commercial waste which is being produced continues to increase – a whopping 3.9 million tonnes of commercial waste was produced in the region in 2009, an increase of 2.5% since 2006. The Environment Agency are working in partnership with Liverpool City Council in the Make Waste Your Business campaign, and the Football League Trust to improve the environmental credentials of football clubs and their community programmes. Where business can’t reduce the amount of waste they produce, they need to look at ways in which they can reuse or recycle. Builderscrap Ltd is not only giving advice on waste management, but are also helping to provide a database of customers and surplus materials which can be re-used. “At the Environment Agency we have already taken steps to reduce the amount of waste we produce,” says Emma Harding, communications business partner. “We recycle 84% of our waste, but we want to do more by 2015 sending no waste to landfill. We’re also committed to further reducing the amount of waste we produce by 20% by 2015. These kinds of targets are challenging and we should be leading by example for both the public and private sector business in the region.” For free environmental guidance on how to manage your business waste visit www.netregs.gov.uk or contact Environment Connect on 0845 006 888.
GOING GREEN Guidance and Training for Businesses from Liverpool Chamber of Commerce
Get rid of leftover, unused materials and any good quality second hand products For more information visit our Roadshow at the Huws Gray Builders Centre
Wednesday 31st March - Flint Thursday 1st April - Wrexham
• Do you want to know how your business can reduce its impact on the environment and improve its green credentials? • Are you unsure about how to respond to new climate legislation and what this will mean for your business? • Do you want to cut costs, realise savings, and get lean, clean and green ALL at the same time? • If so then join Liverpool Chamber’s Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Club which provides training on environmental procedures for your company. • Contact Liverpool Chamber of Commerce today for information on the next round of training from the EMS club and opportunities for funding. Email Kush.Thakar@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk or telephone 0151 227 1234.
http://www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk
14 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Didn’t we have a lovely time, the day we went to .... DIARY DATES ...
April 5 Easter Egg Fun, Royden Park, Frankby, Wirral. Follow the clues to find the eggs. Sorry no dogs. No need to book. Meet at the entrance to the Walled Garden in Royden Park, 1.30pm - 3.30pm. April 6 Egg Rolling, King George V Playing Fields, Knowsley, 12-3pm. April 7 Kite Making, Alt Park, Knowsley, 1-3pm. How to create a Square Yard Garden, National Wildflower Centre, Huyton, £3 + admission charges to centre; Age 7+, 10am – noon. April 8 Kite making, Jubilee Park, Knowsley, 1-3pm. Storytelling Walk, National Wildflower Centre, £2.50 + admission charges to centre, 1pm & 3pm. Easter Egg Hunt, Mill Farm, Knowsley, 1-3pm Dragon Tales and other Fiery Fables, Stories of Flying Fairies and Whirling Witches, Croxteth Hall; Fun storytelling sessions for ages 4 - 11. To book a place (£2.50 per child, £1 adult) ring the Hall Gift Shop on 0151 233 6930. April for the Ardent, Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre, an invigorating walk along the Wirral Way from Thurstaston to the Dawpool Nature Reserve, then returning back along the beach and up the steps to the Visitor Centre. Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead. For further enquiries call 0151-648-4371. April 9 Tales of mermaids, magic and creatures of the deep, tales of trolls, tricks and toadstools, Croxteth Hall. Educational storytelling sessions focussed on different environment themes, to book a place (£2.50 per child, £1 Adult) ring the hall gift shop on 0151 233 6930. April 10 Kite making at Jubilee Park, Knowsley, 12-3pm. April 11 Walled Garden open days, Dibbinsdale Nature Reserve. Visit the Eco-garden project at Dibbinsdale Nature Reserve, run by and for people with learning disabilities. Wild flowers, trees, insect garden, veg, fruit and composting demonstration area. Plants and refreshments will be on sale on behalf of the project, 11am-3pm. Hilbre Island open day, Hilbre Island. Join the Friends of Hilbre on the main island where they will have the Grade II listed Telegraph Station open and will have telescopes set up to watch the seals, 12.30 - 4pm. Contact 0151-648-4371/3884 for advice on tide times; or contact the Hilbre Ranger at: 0151-678 5488. April 12 Where do you get your eggs from? National Wildflower Centre, £2 + admission charges to Centre, 1pm & 3pm. April 13 Bee Beautiful, National Wildflower Centre. Decorate a pot and plant a bee friendly plant, free, admission charges to centre apply, 1pm & 3pm.
April 18 Mad Panda Tea Party, National Wildflower Centre, free event. Pre-booking essential on 0151 281 7967, details from www.madpanda.co.uk, 1- 4pm. April 21 Simply the Best, Gardening for Schools, National Wildflower Centre, RHS Course. See the RHS schoolgardening@rhs.org.uk for further info, 9.30am – 3.30pm. April 24 Spring Clean, Mill Farm, Knowsley, 1-3pm. How to grow herbs, National Wildflower Centre, £7.50, includes entry to centre, 10am – 12noon. April 25 Wild food lunch specials, Cornflower Cafe, National Wildflower Centre, using nettles, dandelions etc. Recipe sheets to take away. The Victorian Gardener, Croxteth Hall; travel back in time to meet the Victorian Head Gardener and discover his role in Lord Sefton's splendid Walled Garden, producing fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables. This event is a ticket only event - book yours by calling the ticket line on 0151 233 6930. Walled Garden admission prices apply. May 1 Beating the Bounds, Huyton Wetlands, 12-3pm.
Monday, March 29, 2010
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May 2 International Dawn Chorus Day, Croxteth Hall, learn about the wild woodland bird population and experience the delights of a rousing 'dawn chorus' with Liverpool's Ranger Interpretation Service. This is the best time of the year to hear birds singing as they vie with each other to establish breeding territories and attract a mate. Wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Buy tickets in advance from the hall gift shop, £3, 5am.
● LIVERPOOL community organisations have received more than £74,000 to help fund environmental projects. The money comes from Liverpool City Council’s Year of the Environment Fund, set up last year. The money from the fund has now been fully allocated to a total of 78 projects across the city. Valley Community Theatre, in Netherley, received £2,500 for their Valley Garden project. The project has brought together adults with learning disabilities, older people and young people to transform a piece of ground to the rear of the theatre. The grant went towards improving the garden and developing a recycling area with compost bins and plants. Lark Lane Neighbour Association received just under £1,000 to help carry out two major clean-up events focusing on grot spots in the area. Liverpool Quakers association was given £1,000 in funding to create a sustainable garden which will be used for running educational and recreational activities and events. Sola Arts in Toxteth received a grant of £1,000 to fund a series of six workshops for local young people. Young volunteers took part in clean-up campaigns and wildlife spotting workshops as part of the project. Colin Heaney, Grants Officer at LCVS, said: “The money allocated has gone to some really worthwhile projects which have helped improve the local communities in Liverpool and bring people in the area closer together. “We are particularly pleased with the way the grants have been delivered. Instead of decisions being made by someone outside the community, panels have used their local knowledge and skills to ensure the funding achieved the best outcome for their community.”
NEWS 3
Spring is in the air on the farm
A
CORN Farm in Kirkby has a host of great family activities planned over the next few weeks. Project administrator Tracy Paynter says: “All the sheep have just given birth over the last couple of weeks so there are plenty of lambs around – 19 lambs including three sets of triplets. “One of our Silkies (fancy breed of chicken) has just given birth to five chicks. We run an incubator package and we have chicks coming back to the farm that have been hatched by local schools.” In addition Roxy the pig is due to have a litter of piglets any day soon. As well as their farm animals to stroke and feed, there are plant sales and woodland walks. On Wednesday April 7 there’s a Farmer for a Day workshop for 8-12 year olds. Budding agriculturalists will be able to find out about looking after rabbits and guinea pigs, feed the chickens and ducks, help to collect and sort the eggs for sale in the farm shop and milk a goat. The day costs £10 per child and must be booked in advance. The next day, April 8, there’s a Horse Day. It offers an introduction to horses and equipment, stable management, riding games and a horse quiz. Again it’s suitable for 8-12 year olds. It costs £15 per child. Book on 0151 548 1524 or email info@acornfarm.co.uk.
A horse at Acorn Venture Farm
Picture: JAMES MALONEY
May 5 Plant some memories, National Wildflower Centre, for the over 50s, refreshments provided, free places available, 10am-12noon. May 9 Liverpool Association of Women's Clubs Annual Walk, Croxteth Park; a popular charity walk in the park. For more details telephone 0151 724 3046. May 15 Discover Nature at Stadt Moors Park, 1-3pm. May 16 Discover Nature at Huyton Wetlands, 1-3pm. May 15 Pond Dipping, Acornfield, Knowsley, 1-3pm. May 29 Wildflowers & Folklore, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, 10am-12noon.
JUMPING FOR JOY: More than 100 Merseyside 10-year-olds got together to show adults how much better they would manage the environment if they were in charge - holding the banner at the back is Cllr John Coyne, left, and Cllr Phil Moffat, together with charity worker Arbab Shakar, and some of the youngsters Picture: JAMES MALONEY ● MORE than a hundred pupils from across Merseyside have united to show adults how much better they would manage the environment if they were in charge. Children from St John’s Catholic Primary School, in Kirkdale, Bishop Martin Church of England Primary School, in Woolton, and Garston Church of England Primary School have been parading and singing about climate change. Nalina Eggert, the event organiser from the Liverpool World Centre, said: “St John’s recently raised £2,000 to help the survivors of the earthquake in Haiti.
Garston have been learning about climate change and Bishop Martin pupils have been growing their own vegetables. We are delighted to have such environmentally-conscious children on board.” The school children have been finding out more about climate change and its effects with Oxfam, CAFOD, Christian Aid and the Liverpool World Centre, and spoke to Arbab Shakar, a Pakistan-based Oxfam worker, on how poor countries are coping with climate change. “It’s great to know that so many children in Liverpool are interested in learning about climate change and how
it affects other children in a country like Pakistan,” said Arbab. Mrs Donnelly, teacher for year 5 at Bishop Martin Church of England Primary School, in Woolton, said: “It has been great, the children had fun and have learnt a lot about climate change and the injustices of it. At school they are working towards a Green Flag award. They run a Greener school committee. They have set up a travelling scheme, walk-in-bus, to reduce their carbon emissions. They are also looking after a garden plot, grow their own veg and 18 baby chicks have hatched this week!”
2 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
Welcome toour world... it’sgreen!
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Monday, March 29, 2010
NEWS 15
MAGIC: Katie Spivey, 4, cuddles a week-old lamb at Croxteth Hall Farm Picture: GARETH JONES
Supplement written and researched by JADE WRIGHT WELCOME to the spring It’s Our World supplement – part of our green section dedicated to making Merseyside a better place to live in. We’re now almost a year into the project and we’re already seeing big changes. From improved recycling rates to more green activities for community groups, the environmental message is coming over loud and clear in Merseyside. The many trees that were planted in different projects last year are now coming into bud and the flowers are coming into bloom. Over the past few months I’ve been overwhelmed by your fantastic green ideas, your ingenious tips and the many inspirational things you’ve been doing to make the world a better place. This edition is packed with things to see and do, as well as green news and tips on how we can all make a difference plus of course, details of how you have taken It's Our World to your hearts. Pages 4 and 5 focus on the pioneering rare breeds work at Croxteth Park Farm which opens to visitors again this weekend after a winter break. On Pages 6 and 7 there are some great outdoor activities, plus young offenders paying back their debt to society by growing vegetables for the community and a great competition to win free loft insulation. Your Easter will be a little bit sweeter with our special feature on Pages 8 and 9, and on Pages 10 and 11 you can grow your own, and see how to keep a food waste diary. Bridget Jones has got nothing on our food diarist Gail Mooney! On Pages 12 and 13 we’ve got some great news on green business initiatives in Merseyside, and Pages 14 and 15 have our bumper listings of environmental activities this spring. Please do keep your news coming – email me at jade.wright@liverpool.com, or log on to the green blog http://blogs.liverpool echo.co.uk/ecowarrior/ and share your green news with the world. I’ll feature as much as I can in my weekly pages, and in the It’s Our World supplements which will continue to appear every three months in your paper. We know how hard you’re working to make Merseyside greener. Now, as spring comes with a burst of new life, it seems like we’re really getting there. Happy Easter! jade.wright@liverpool.com www.itsourworld.co.uk
May 30 Wood for the Trees walk, Acornfield, Knowsley, 10am-1pm. May 31 Recycled Arts Workshop for ages 7-12, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, www.the-green-fuse.co.uk, 1pm. June 1 Bee Scene – making candles for under-8s, National Wildflower Centre, free places available, 10am-12noon. Recycled Arts Workshop for ages 7-12, National Wildflower Centre, free, although admission charges to centre apply, www.the-green-fuse.co.uk, 1pm. June 2 A Taste of Honey, National Wildflower Centre, free, admission charges to centre apply, 2pm.
nature and reserve this Saturday. From self guided nature trails to face painting Easter crafts as well as a traditional Easter egg hunt, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Eva Tregidgo, Community Outreach Adviser at Ainsdale Sand Dunes, e to says: “The event offers a great family day out and a chance for everyon the visit the reserve, explore the dunes and pinewoods and learn about diverse wildlife on their doorstep. most “As well as great crested newts, the reserve is home to one of the are important populations of natterjack toad in the country. Sand lizards of red also often seen here and the pinewoods are home to a large number squirrels.” The dunes are home to over 450 plant species including 33 that are bartsia, locally or regionally rare like petalwort, seaside centaury, yellow d round-leaved wintergreen, dune helleborine and pendulous flowere helleborine. adds: Liz Newton, North West Regional Director for Natural England, nature. “This event is a great opportunity to introduce young people to is “Having contact with nature is important for everyone. But it in especially important for our children. Whilst many skills can be gained nature with contact direct through learnt be only can the classroom, others and the sorts of experiences that these events provide.”
● THERE’S a free Easter family event at Ainsdale Sand Dunes
Easter egg fun ● THIS Easter hop down to Church Farm in
Thurstaston. They have organic food, friendly animals, beautiful views and fun family events. The Easter Bunny has hidden lots of eggs in the forest and needs some help to find them. Go through the farm to the magical forest. You'll need all your searching skills to find all our eggy clues around the forest. Some of the clues are puzzles and games of skill, so keep your thinking hats on, as well as your Easter bonnets. Back at the farm, meet the super-cute Easter ducklings and chicks and play on the swings, slides and sand diggers. Tickets must be bought in advance. They’re £7.50 from the farm shop on 0151 648 7838 or £7 online at www.churchfarm.org.uk.
June 3 Story Telling Walks, National Wildflower Centre, £2.50 + admission charges to centre, 1pm & 3pm. June 4 Bee Beautiful, National Wildflower Centre, decorate a pot and plant a bee friendly plant, free, but admission charges to centre apply, 1pm & 3pm. June 6 Green Fayre, free family event in Court Hey Park, Knowsley, noon-5pm.
Daffodils in bloom in Liverpool’s Sefton Park. Below left: Huyton’s National Wildflower Centre and Hilbre Island off West Kirby. Top: Easter chicks
Main Picture: GARETH JONES
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Poppy Bentley, 3, right, on the Church Farm Easter trail
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16 NEWS
Monday, March 29, 2010
★★★★
Broccoli is the business. Ask Mum, it’s the only green thing I eat. The way she does it with cheese sauce is the best. She’s been getting all adventurous lately and now it’s popping up everywhere, in stir-fries, curries... There’s always some of it in the fridge, well wrapped up, so it doesn’t go soft like Mum. lovefoodhatewaste.com has more tips and recipes to help you waste less food and save up to £50 a month.
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Spring is in the air ... so let’s go green! 16 pages of tips and tales . . . from a recycled Easter to ex-offenders on the allotments
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