Issue 126 – December 2016
DON’T MISS – THIS MONTH
DECK THE HALLS
By Stephen Guy, West Derby Society
FAMILIES gathered around open fires to escape the biting cold which clothed town and country with ice and thick snow. Christmas and New Year feature the shortest, darkest days but today most of us are protected by modern conveniences such as central heating and electric lights. Our ancestors were much worse off in many respects. A century ago most homes were lit by gas. Electricity did not come to West Derby until 1927. Hundreds of years ago most people worked on the land where seasons dictated their lives. By December it was often a battle just to survive. There were celebrations around the shortest day in pagan times. The Church modified some of these traditions when the people were converted. Parish churches were at the centre of communities and religious festivals such as Christmas were very important to most people. The celebration of Christmas is almost universally celebrated or commemorated today, even by some members of other religions. It can be a time when families and friends meet or contact each other to catch up on the year’s news.
Christmas is a double treat for Jorgie – page 5
WIN, WIN, WIN Two family tickets to see Aladdin to be won
Others see it as a time to party and have n Join the West Derby Society at its next fun, which has nearly always been a feature of meeting 7.30pm on December 21 at Lowlands, 13 Haymans Green, Liverpool L12 7JG. the festive season. – see inside It’s hard to believe now but there was a period when the celebration of Christmas was frowned upon – and by deeply-religious people. This was during the time the country was a republic under Oliver Cromwell (1599 – 1658). He and other Puritans did not approve From start-ups looking for support and assistance in developing their of religious rituals or people having fun. Dancing and theatres were among other business, to established businesses looking for expert planning and advice, banned pursuits. Coburn McKenna are the ideal partner. People celebrated Christmas in secret, no doubt with some dancing behind closed doors. Our services include: The modern Christmas owes a good deal to the Victorians, in particular Prince Albert, • Accounts preparation German-born husband of Queen Victoria. • Tax compliance and planning Large houses and their country estates were • Bookkeeping and VAT compliance also important focal-points in communities at • Payroll services • Auto-enrolment Christmas. • HMRC investigations They employed many people and the • Personal Tax • Corporation Tax and much more occupants were often generous at Christmas with gifts to local good causes. If you are interested in a fresh start, why not contact Clair Coburn or Mark Roby Hall (pictured), built in 1761 by mayor of Liverpool John Williamson, stood in McKenna on 0151 489 1010 or 07968 371 878 today to arrange a free, no what is now Bowring Park. obligation meeting to see how we can help. We can imagine the happy Christmases celebrated within its walls and grounds. Email: clair@coburnmckenna.co.uk Doubtless they sang the 1881 carol “Deck Website: www.coburnmckenna.co.uk the halls with boughs of holly … ‘tis the season to be jolly.”
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Colly Whitty (Croxteth Sports Centre Manager), Sam Turner, Louis Roberts and PC Robbie Pritchard – Robby the Bobby.
Farewell to Robby the Bobby
A COMMUNITY is bidding farewell to a policeman who has become a legendary figure in the area for his work with young people. His name is PC Robert Pritchard but he is known to everybody as Robby the Bobby. For the last 20 years he has worked in the Croxteth, Norris
Green and Clubmoor areas. During this time he has organised youth clubs, football events and discos which have raised thousands of pounds for charities, and which have involved hundreds of young people. He is to retire in the New Year. And this week, when he was running his last half-term activ-
ities, he was presented with a gift at Croxteth Sports Centre on behalf of the local community. Croxteth Councillor Anthony Lavelle said: “I want to send warm wishes to Robby the Bobby on his planned retirement in January next year. “He’s been a massive part of the community in Croxteth, and
the positive work he’s done over the years in the community has shaped a lot of young people’s futures. “I hope that one day I’m as successful in my career as Robby the Bobby has been in his. His retirement is our loss, and his absence in Croxteth will be felt by the community.”
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Happy Christmas to all
Hi Everyone Welcome to your December issue of The Link. There are still a few weeks to go...but, as this is our festive issue, there¹s nothing like getting your greeting in first! So, from all of us here at The LINK, we hope you and yours have the Happiest Christmas ever. For some, Christmas can be the loneliest and most painful time of the year, especially if it marks a first without someone special. If you know of someone who may not be looking forward to Christmas for one reason or another, then why not do something special for them; invite them in for a drink, buy them a little gift, or simply make a friendly phone call to see if they are OK. Isn¹t that what the Christmas spirit is all about?
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What a fantastic response we have had to our Prize Draws this month, it has been amazing. Ken Dodd Tickets draw was the biggest response we have ever had. If you are one of the lucky winners (winners names on our games page) then we hope you have a great time at the show. Congratulations also to all those who won Santaland and ice skating tickets. Enjoy!! This month we have Panto tickets up for grabs so get your entries in a.s.a.p. as deadline is 7th December for our next edition. To our readers and advertisers alike, we hope you and your families have your best Christmas yet. We¹ll be back in January to help you see in the New Year. If you want to see your message or advertisement in the January issue, then please do remember to supply your material by 7th December in
order to meet our earlier holiday deadline. Some of you may be wondering why Dawn’s photo is not in this edition. Dawn is no longer a partner in the business (as of about 18 months ago) although she is still involved and works for The LINK part-time. She Moira Hesketh, has a busy life and being editor semi-retired is allowing her to spend more time with her elderly parents and of course her children and grandchildren. A very big thank you to all our advertisers and readers, With our very best seasonal wishes,
Moira, Dawn and Carol
What our advertisers are saying about us ... “I started an Adult Art Class business in early 2016. With Moira’s help at The Link I was able to place suitable advertisements and editorials that appealed to potential students. The response rate has been fantastic. My business is up and running and going from strength to strength. Thank you!” Alyson – Seasons Art Class Liverpool
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Jorgie has two reasons to celebrate FORMER Hollyoaks actress Jorgie Porter has twice the reason to celebrate this Christmas. Not only is the 25th her birthday – she turns 29 on Christmas Day – but she gets to play her favourite panto role in her adopted home city. Jorgie actually hails from along the M62 but eight years, give or take one short departure, playing Theresa McQueen in the Liverpoolshot soap means she’s very much an adopted Scouser. So when the casting call came for Snow White at the Empire, Jorgie didn’t hesitate. “Snow White is definitely the panto part I’d have chosen,” she says. “And to be honest, even though Christmas is my birthday, I’d rather be working because it’s the worst day to have a birthday. Everyone either gets me a joint present, or they just don’t remember at all. This year I’ll be Snow White so I’ll get at least seven presents, that’s the rule!” she laughs. She’s also considered another upside of the role, especially as she spends much of her time living in Los Angeles at the moment, and is jetting back to the UK especially for the panto run. “Well she naps a lot doesn’t she, which is quite exciting and will be handy if I’m still jet-lagged!” she jokes.
For Jorgie, LA has been home since her final Hollyoaks scenes aired in March. Living there, she says, has given her the opportunity to learn more about acting, without the pressures of soap stardom. “I went out on my own but I’ve always lived away from home, ever since I was 16. I moved to Chester for dance school from Manchester, then I moved to Liverpool when I was 20 for Hollyoaks. “I don’t like to stay in one place for too long, I like to travel, and you can always Skype and phone home so you’re not that far away.” Jorgie says she didn’t have to think twice about where to head once she knew she was leaving. “I’ve always wanted to live in America, from being a kid and watching Sesame Street and Saved by the Bell. But I never thought of a place where I wanted to settle and I think travelling is so good for you. I get to come home and tell my mum things, like new food which I’d never have known about. “Finishing Hollyoaks I thought, I’ve played one character, I need to broaden things acting-wise and learn more. “In England if I went to a class it would be like everyone would know me as Theresa, but in LA no-one knows me so I can be myself and I can learn more. And the fact that you’ve flown all
the way from England and you’re there to learn, they love that.” Although the headlines when she jetted off suggested she was going in search of Hollywood fame, Jorgie insists she’s not thinking that way. “When I say ‘I’m going to LA’ everyone thinks ‘you’re going to be a film star, you’re going to smash Hollywood’ but I’m like ‘woah, no, no,’ I’ve got work here in England so I can go out there and have the best of both worlds. “I’m not pressuring myself by saying ‘I need to go and smash America’. One day things might happen but I’ve never planned anything so far and it’s been really great and fun and things have just happened. “I haven’t been for an audition yet, I haven’t even got an agent over there yet, I’ve got a brilliant agent here and I love England and English telly so I don’t want to hinder my job opportunities here.” Those opportunities included a return to appear in a revamped version of the BBC comedy classic Are You Being Served this summer, in the newly created role of secretary Miss Croft. And now, of course, there’s panto. So what are her plans into 2017? “There’s definitely programmes I’d like to be in over in America, but Are You Being Served was a massive thing to be a part of and I was so grateful for that,” she says. “And I keep thinking of back-up plans. I think ‘I’ll be a dog walker in LA, I really like dogs, I could do that’ – and imagine the tips? I could run along the beach in a bikini with a load of dogs on leads!” n Jorgie is in Snow White at the Liverpool Empire from Saturday December 10 to Saturday December 31, with co-stars Leanne Campbell, Liam Mellor and Stephen Fletcher.
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Come for a walk with us
WHERE do you like to walk? Alongside a river, the beach, through woodland or open country or city parks. In our Festival of Winter walks, you’ll be able to try all of these. Over the Christmas and New Year period, Liverpool Ramblers has a walk every day (except Christmas Day!). The walks are throughout Merseyside:- Wirral, Sefton, West Lancs, and of course Liverpool, and give a wide variety of walks. All walks are free and led by an experienced walker. Distances are from four to nine miles. Most walks start at 10.30am or 11 and the starting points
are all accessible by public transport. Wear stout shoes or boots, bring a drink and a snack. Join a walk to see some familiar, and maybe some new places. Do you recognise the picture above? It is the Boat House at Birkenhead Park. Opened in 1847, Birkenhead Park was the first ever publicly funded public park, and was the inspiration for Central Park in New York. Other places we will visit include – Anthony Gormley’s “Another Place”; Leeds Liverpool Canal (its 200th birthday this year); Parkgate historic port – but
now more famous for its ice cream! Liverpool’s wonderful parks, and historic city centre. What better way to take a break from the pre-Christmas stress, or to relax after Christmas. Come with family or friends, or come on your own and make new friends. And of course get some good healthy exercise. For full details of our Festival of Winter Walks visit www.liverpoolramblers. org.uk Just turn up at the meeting place, but if you want more information, or to tell us you are coming along, call Pat 07533 905465 or Joyce 07847 590820.
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Dog of the month – Geronimo GERONIMO is a friendly lad who is about four years old. He has a real thing for squeaky toys and loves to chase and throw them about. He walks like a dream when on his lead and is no bother at all. “Ronnie” is an affectionate lad and loves to snuggle in
close for a bit of telly viewing. Geronimo gets along well with most dogs and plays nicely with those that he does off lead. He has spent some time in a home and appears to be house trained. He can live with children aged around 10 but would like an
active family to live with that won’t leave him by himself as he really does prefer company. If you think Ronnie could be the fourlegged friend you are looking for, you can visit Dogs Trust Merseyside on Whiston Lane, Huyton, Liverpool, L36 6HP. It’s open 12pm-
4pm every day except Wednesdays, when it is closed. You can also call on 0300 303 0292, 8am-8pm MondayFriday and 9am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. To find out more about any of the dogs at the centre, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk You can also follow the doggy ‘tails’ on Twitter @DT_Merseyside
Festive bingo
BROUGHTON Hall Catholic High School PTA event Sunday 4th December – eyes Down 7pm (doors open 6.30pm). Sixth Form centre building – Broughton Hall, located on Honey’s Green Lane, West Derby. Refreshments available with all proceeds to the pupils. Further details from Mrs Michelle Hayward (0151 541 9440) or visit the school website – http:// www.broughtonhall. com/
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Rest and be thankful By Anton Valdemart
Some said it was on the road to nowhere but the old inn had survived for centuries, tucked away beside a byway by-passed in the days of stage coaches. The Rest and Be Thankful evoked another age with its thatched roof, oak settles and stone floors. It must have witnessed hundreds of Christmases as travellers sought refreshment and lodgings within its stout walls. Generations of Hardys ran the hostelry, starting with Obadiah in 1562. It was now 1851 and the landlord was Jasper Hardy who took over when his father died 20 years earlier. Jasper’s ruddy face beamed as he stoked the open fire. He turned to the coal scuttle to get fresh supplies but found it empty. The landlord scowled and called out: “Millie come here.” His daughter cowered in front of him: “How many times have I told you – we must have coal. Coal! Coal! Coal!” Millie went forlornly to the coal hole – she knew it well: it was also her bedroom. That night, Christmas Eve, she lay awake – despite the inn’s outwardly convivial atmosphere she had little rest and virtually no thanks. Millie was her father’s drudge, working morning noon and night. One or two of the regulars called her Cinderella. She was dominated by her two-faced tyrant of a father. To customers he was bright and cheerful, to her a bullying ogre. These thoughts went through her head as she
STRANGE TALES – By Anton Valdemart
slowly fell asleep. Millie woke with a start – there was someone in the room. She could make out a shadowy, shapeless form at the foot of the bed. She pulled back the blankets, got up and stood on the cold, damp floor. “Sit down!” commanded a rasping, high-pitched voice.“I have come to help you.” “Who are you?” asked Millie. “Never mind my name but I have waited years to find a kindred spirit. For eons I have wandered Simonswood Moss seeking companionship other than frogs and toads. “Tree trunks and ditches have been my home. I am cursed to spend eternity as a lost soul unable to find salvation.” There was a pause, broken only by heavy breathing: “Two nights ago I chanced upon this place,
saw you sleeping and knew I would be saved.” “You frighten me,” said Millie to the shadow. “Go away”. The door suddenly burst open to reveal a familiar figure framed in the doorway. “Get out of my daughter’s bedroom!” Jasper shouted and lunged at the shadowy figure. Millie was horrified to see a scruffy tramp struggling in her father’s grasp. “This is Chump the Scavenger,” boomed her father. “He’s always looking for somewhere to sleep for nowt. He must have got in through the coal hatch.” Bundling Chump out, he turned to Millie: “Tomorrow’s Christmas – make sure you’ve lit the fires by six o’clock.” Millie put on her clothes, squeezed through the coal hatch, went out into the snow and never came back.
Read my next Strange Tale – Smart Aleck – in the January Link.
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YOUR MONTHLY STARS WITH
ARIES Mar 21st - Apr 20th
It’ll be hard to get a dream off the ground early December. Don’t be discouraged if an authority figure criticises your attempts; perseverance will pay off. Friends will be supportive. Ask loved ones for help if you encounter difficulty. A bold visionary will offer sound advice about a creative project; take it! The Full Moon (14th) brings exciting family news, triggering celebrations. Take this opportunity to reconnect with your nearest and dearest. You’ll try to keep a low profile later in the month. Despite this, a powerful person will ask you to head an important project. The New Moon (29th) marks a career breakthrough which could lead to a pay-rise, promotion or high profile job.
TAURUS Apr 21st - May 21st
A team project will be frustrating early December, conflicting opinions making it impossible to do a good job. Fortunately, you can make a good impression by launching an independent effort. Creating a unique product or service is strongly advised. The Full Moon (14th) helps you earn extra money. Use this to buy a new car or computer. You’ll expand your horizons later in the month. The New Moon (29th) makes it possible to change the old routine and a pleasure trip will be a welcome change. Exploring a country known for its unspoiled natural vistas will be inspiring. Take along an easy-going friend, you’ll have a great time exploring the sights together.
GEMINI May 22nd - Jun 21st
It will be hard to get a straight answer from your boss early December, you’ll have to muddle ahead as best you can. Be prepared to start a job from scratch. Take your cues from an experienced colleague; take a philosophical approach and you'll become a valued team member. The Full Moon (14th) is ideal for making a serious commitment, possibly getting engaged or married! If you're already in a relationship, you may launch a business partnership. Someone in the grips of an addiction needs to be confronted. The New Moon (29th) gives you the strength to communicate some hard facts to a loved one who needs help. Don't mince your words.
CANCER Jun 22nd - Jul 23rd
It will be difficult to find fulfilling work early December but your love life fares much better. If you've recently met someone you fancy, you’ll have to be the aggressor. Pursue your heart's desire! Spending time with your amour will make professional challenges more manageable. The Full Moon (14th) allows you to recuperate from a stressful assignment. Take time out to think things through. You'll be on a more solid footing career-wise later in the month. You might have to work overtime but loved ones will be supportive. Single? You could meet someone special near the 29th, when the New Moon attracts lots of romantic attention. Already have a partner? Go on a trip together!
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How to make a wreath COME Christmas we all want to make our homes look fab and festive, by decking the halls with boughs of holly and, even, our front doors too. Decorative wreaths have become increasingly popular whether they are festooned with fairy lights or left more simple and stylish. A wreath says ‘Merry Christmas’ and gets everyone in the spirit of the season. But you don’t need to fork out a fortune to welcome the Yuletide. We asked the National Wildflower Centre in Roby to give us some top tips to create the perfect Christmas wreath… There are four steps to making a wreath, says Alison Storer at the NWC: “Firstly, you need to make a base shape, then decorate it, and then hang it – and enjoy it. “Usually a wreath is a circle shape but there is nothing to stop you from making a different shaped one such as a square, star or heart shaped.” To start choose what you’re going to make your base out of. From a wire coat hanger, florist oasis foam, willow or hay there are many materials you can use. Now you can decorate it. Once again the choice is yours
on what to use to decorate your wreath – natural greenery such as ivy and holly, chillies for colour, pinecones or even lolly pops! The internet is a great place to source ideas, tips and advice. “But this is how we make our wreaths at the National Wildflower Centre,” adds Alison. Using handfuls of hay, shape it into a tube shape long enough to shape into a ring. As you bring the hay together to make the tube shape wrap it with string, looping the string around and tying it at equal stages (blanket stitch is ideal), this will help to strengthen the base. Don’t forget to tie a piece of string to the wreath for you to hang it. Now you’ve got your wreath base it’s time to decorate. Using lovely greenery from your garden i.e. ivy, holly, ferns, teasel heads, leylandii, bay and evergreen place evenly around the ring, decorating with ribbons, cinnamon sticks, herbs or pinecones. Now it’s time to hang it in a prominent place and enjoy. To help keep it fresh and last until Christmas spray with a little water every other day.
Dedicate a light this Christmas to support Woodlands Hospice WE know that Christmas can be a very difficult time of year if you have lost a loved one, or if you cannot be with someone
Cat of the month – meet Mr Blackberry!
LEO Jul 24th - Aug 23rd
Be realistic about romance early December. A desire for perfection will make your personal life more rewarding. Collaborating with somebody who is highly logical allows you to reach new heights. The Full Moon (14th) brings a successful conclusion to a group project. Use this as a launching pad to bigger and better things. Be open to unorthodox teaching methods - you'll see the method to your instructor's madness! The New Moon (29th) is perfect for launching a fitness regime. Taking more exercise will give you an irresistible glow. A steady job will be yours for the asking. Take this opportunity to build financial security.
VIRGO Aug 24th - Sep 23rd
Respect a loved one's desire for privacy early December. Focusing on work will be a welcome distraction, you'll make progress with a creative assignment. Hosting a party could be fun - bring together your nearest and dearest in a spirit of harmony. The Full Moon (14th) marks a turning point in your domestic life. This is a great time to buy or sell a property. Relocating to a place with beautiful views will be inspiring. Looking for love? You could find it during the second half of December. You'll have to play the aggressor in this relationship. Money from a loan, grant or scholarship could become available. The New Moon (29th) invites you to launch a creative project.
LIBRA Sep 24th - Oct 23rd
Work won't offer much creative fulfilment early December but your love life will be more promising. Single? You could meet someone special at a sporting event or gym. Already in a relationship? Your partner will inspire you to develop your artistic talent. A writing or music course will inspire you. The Full Moon (14th) brings the successful conclusion of a legal matter. Focus on your home life, spending time on domestic pursuits will be rewarding. Invent a new recipe, host a dinner party or arrange a family reunion. The New Moon (29th) could prompt you to relocate - find a comfortable haven.
SCORPIO Oct 24th - Nov 22nd
Don't feel pressured into buying expensive gifts early December; conserve your resources. Career demands keep you busy and you could land a well-paid position. Salary negotiations may be tense but keep your cool and you'll be able to get what you want. The Full Moon (14th) will bring money from an inheritance, legal settlement or insurance refund. Spend this on equipment and clothes to further your career. Resist the urge to take time off work or you could make powerful enemies. Play your part and help colleagues. The New Moon (29th) prompts you to acquire valuable skills. Expand your repertoire!
SAGITTARIUS Nov 23rd - Dec 21st
Family won't be very supportive early December. Be your own cheerleader, especially if planning a bold move. Raising money for a good cause gives you a new lease of life. Draw upon your social network to help a vulnerable sector of society. The Full Moon (14th) marks an exciting turning point in an intimate relationship; getting engaged or married is a distinct possibility or you might form a business partnership. The second half of December is filled with exciting moneymaking opportunities. Use this to buy a dream home. An uplifting spiritual journey is possible. Head for an exotic place that has captivated your imagination since childhood.
CAPRICORN Dec 22nd - Jan 20th
Careful sending sensitive emails early December! Double-check the address before hitting 'send’ and don’t let confidential information into the wrong hands. Moneymaking opportunities abound and it’s a great time to land a lucrative job, raise prices or demand a payrise. The Full Moon (14th) marks an exciting turning point in an intimate relationship. You'll be able to hand some responsibilities to a loving partner. Single? You could meet someone special at a library, bookshop or classroom. Don't make your employer promises you can’t keep. Family responsibilities keep you close to home and you might have to assume a reduced workload. The New Moon (29th) could prompt you to change your look; adopting a more fashionable appearance will be empowering.
AQUARIUS Jan 21st - Feb 19th
Money will be tight early December. Increase your income by spreading word of your talent. An original promotional campaign can generate lots of business. The first half of December reminds you that relationships are more important than money. Turn to your nearest and dearest when you feel insecure. The Full Moon (14th) will bring the successful conclusion of a creative project. Play your cards right and you'll be able to sell your handiwork for a handsome profit. Single? You could meet someone special at a library, bookshop or classroom. Your charisma will be powerful so take this opportunity to ask for favours, apply for loans and win hearts. The New Moon (29th) will find you enjoying solitary pursuits; escaping the public eye will be a profound relief!
PISCES Feb 20th - Mar 20th
It will be difficult to get an authority figure's approval early December. Trust your instincts; although your methods are unconventional, they yield impressive results, displaying your unique strengths. The Full Moon (14th) could prompt you to relocate or make domestic changes. Extra privacy will keep stress at bay; draw a strong boundary between your private and public lives. Don't be surprised if you're given a pay rise or promotion. The New Moon (29th) is ideal for planning a party. You'll enjoy compiling the guest list, shopping for treats and the catering. Ask friends to run time-saving errands.
you love. Our Light up a Life campaign helps you celebrate the life of a loved one by dedicating a light on our Christmas trees.
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HE’S been living rough for a long time and was brought into us one cold and wet November night. He’s an older chap, maybe around 10 years old, and should go to a very quiet home with no children as he is very nervous around them. Now neutered, de-flead, wormed and micro-chipped, and just waiting for some kind person who’ll give him house room and a bit of peace and quiet in his autumn years. For more information about us visit us on our website or Facebook pages as follows:Our website www.garstonanimalrescue. com Facebook http://www.facebook.com GarstonAnimalRescue or just call us on 0151 494 0470, 0151 737 1945 and 07745 167170. A very Happy Christmas from all at Garston Animal Rescue. With profound thanks to all our helpers and supporters without whose help we would be so lost.
To advertise see page FOUR Continued from page 8 By dedicating a light you will be helping hundreds of families like Diane’s family, who have experienced the care provided to a loved one and their family. Diane’s husband Dave was only 32 when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and spent his last days at Woodlands Hospice, where staff supported the family during this difficult time. Sadly Dave died in January 2015. Diane said: “Woodlands helped us through the most difficult time our family faced, most importantly caring for Dave, but also helping us as a family understand what was happening and what to expect. “There was always someone there when I needed to talk or ask a million questions, and to speak to our daughters when needed. “They sat with them and patiently explained in a way they understood. “I am so very thankful for this. Also since Dave passed, Woodlands has
continued to support my family and I. “We have benefitted from group meetings, one to one chats, and even quick phone calls to see how we are doing.” Since losing Dave, Diane and her family have continued to receive support from Woodlands and she is keen to help the Hospice, so that others can benefit in the future from the same level of care and support she and her family received. Diane and her two daughters have been invited to switch on the Christmas tree lights at the Light up a Life service at the Hospice on Sunday 4th December. We are also holding a second service on Monday 5th December at St Andrew’s Church, Maghull where we will also have a tree. It is really simple to dedicate a light and help other families like Diane’s. In exchange for a donation to Woodlands you can dedicate a light on one of our trees; you will then receive a special card with the name of the person you have dedicated a light to and their name will appear
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in our Book of Life, which will be available to view at the services and at the Hospice throughout the year, and you will be able to view the Book of Life online on our website, www. wwodlandshospice.org which will be helpful for those who cannot attend a service or visit the Hospice. To dedicate a light plase visit www. lightupalife4woodlands.org or alternatively you can call Carole Riley on 0151 529 4143 to dedicate a light over the phone and pay by card or request a Light up a Life form to be posted out to you. To guarantee the name(s) appearing in the Book of Life in time to be viewed at the services, please return your form before Friday 25th November. Alternatively, if you would like more information about the work of the Hospice or if you would like to find out how you can help support the care provided at the Hospice please contact the hospice on 0151 529 4143. For More information: Please contact – Carole Riley Tel: (Office) 0151-529-4143, (Mobile) 07801 482157.
New Mexican restaurant brings Mayfair service to Merseyside PULL on your poncho because a little bit of Liverpool has gone Latin! The Mexican House is one of the newest restaurants to say hola to the city and, as well as a pinch of spice, it promises superb service fit for royalty. Restaurant owner Mahesh Regmi has worked in some of London’s top establishments where he’s welcomed celebrities and society’s elite: “But no matter who came into any restaurant I worked in, the service was always the same – the best, and that’s what I want to bring to The Mexican House on Queens Drive.” “Queens Drive is a great location because it’s a main thoroughfare from one end of the city to another and en-route
Liverpool Harmony Club AN afternoon’s free entertainment at the Palm House, one with a definite Christmas flavour! On Sunday 18 December, between 2pm and 4pm, acappella
(unaccompanied) singing will fill the air in a repeat of last year’s event. The male voices of the four part harmony Grand National
Chorus, established in 1974, will be supported by the mixed Halewood Community Choir singing a wide selection of songs including Christmas favourites and carols.
to the two famous football grounds, so we are hoping to welcome both Liverpool and Everton fans to eat with us
before kick-off or celebrate here after the game. “And there will be lots of match day offers.
“It’s a win for everyone, whether they’re Red or Blue, and I’m not bias … my daughter’s called Chelsea!”
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DECEMBER
DIXIELAND JAZZ CONCERT The Savoy Jazzmen are giving a traditional jazz concert in the beautiful setting of the Sefton Park Palm House on Tuesday 6th December between 2-4 p.m. Come and have a dance or just listen. Further details from Peter Swensson (0151 722 1478) A CHRISTMAS CAROL Charles Dickens classic play at the Grand Central Hall on Renshaw Street from the 17th to 23rd of December. Tickets available at Skiddle.com or pay on door. All tickets £10. For show times call 07824 359201. CHILDWALL MONDAY CLUB We are a small friendly group meeting weekly at 8.00 pm on Mondays in Score Lane Methodist Church Hall. We enjoy a varied programme of speakers, craft evenings, quizzes and discussions and also have days out and weekend trips. New members very welcome, come and make new friends. Contact 0151 475 0313 ARABIC Beginners/intermediate. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Park Road Adult Learning Centre, L8 6SE; 07724 770676 GRASSENDALE FLOWER ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY Meeting on Thursday December 8th 2016 for a Christmas Party and “In House” demonstration. Please book for this in advance to help with catering. Meetings are held in Dovedale Baptist Church Hall, Olivedale Road, L18 1DW. Doors open at 7.30pm for meeting at 8pm. ORIEL SINGERS Christmas Concert Dates – An Evening of Festive Favourites; Saturday 3rd December 7.30pm; Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Birkenhead (Retiring Collection); Saturday 17th December 7.30pm All Hallows Church Parish Centre, Liverpool. Admission £8 (£5 concession). For more info contact info@orielsingers.co.uk ART AND CRAFT MARKET The Old Police Station, Lark Lane. 20+ stalls of handmade items. Buy from the people who made them. Free entry…. Take the weight off at Mrs B’s Vintage Teas with a cuppa and a cob of homemade cake. Open 11am-5pm Saturday 10th December BEECHLEY STABLES RDA CHRISTMAS FAIR Featuring pony rides and Santa’s grotto (both payable on the day), BBQ, children’s games, crafts, choir, stalls, raffle, café, home-made cakes. At the stables Harthill Road, Allerton, L18 3HU, Sunday December 11th, 12noon to 4pm. Come and buy gifts, ride a pony (kids only! And subject to the ponies’ rest breaks) or simply enjoy a feast of Christmas carols. Or cakes! Admission free. LIVERPOOL HARMONY CLUB Weekly open night at Lee Park Golf Club, Childwall Valley Road, Liverpool L27 3YA from 8pm to 10pm on Thursdays. Come and savour the sound of the male voices of the Grand National Chorus. All are welcome. Check us out on our website www.liverpoolinharmony.co.uk BLOOD DONATION West Derby - Alder Sports Club Tuesday 7 February 2017. Appointments from 12:00 - 14:00 and 15:15 - 17:15. To make an appointment or register as a blood donor call 0300 123 23 23 or see www.blood.co.uk ST MARY’S CHRISTMAS FAIR St. Mary’s Church, West Derby Christmas Fair to be held on Saturday 3rd
December in church from 10am to 2pm. Grotto, Raffles, Stalls, Games, Festive Food and Crafts and refreshments. All welcome. CHRISTMAS PRIZE BINGO Broughton Hall Catholic High School PTA event Sunday 4th December - Eyes Down 7pm (doors open 6.30pm). Sixth Form centre building - Broughton Hall, located on Honey’s Green Lane, West Derby. Refreshments available with all proceeds to the pupils. Further details from Mrs Michelle Hayward (0151 541 9440) or visit the school website - http:// www.broughtonhall.com/ THE LIVERPOOL SHOWTIME GROUP Is available for Ladies groups, charity events etc. For details, please telephone 079038 69600 or 079415 26370
REGULAR EVENTS
ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY Have several support groups in Prescot, Halewood, Huyton and Kirkby for people living with dementia and their carers. The groups provide activities and an opportunity to meet other families with caring responsibilities. There is no charge to attend and refreshments are provided. Please contact us on 426 4433 for further information. AMATEUR BOXING CLUB Tuebrook Community Centre, Marlborough Road, L13 8AU. Mon, Wed, Fri. 5-7pm. Under 18s £1.50. Adults £3 BALLROOM Ballroom, Latin and popular Sequence dancing. Every Wednesday at The Railway Club, Melling Road, Aintree. 8.30 to 11pm. Large dance floor and friendly crowd. Admission £3.00. Contact Maureen McDonald on 07866 077053 BOWEL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Come and meet others, discuss, explore, exchange ideas and laughter in a friendly, non-threatening environment. If you would like to join us for a cuppa and a chat, come along to Meeting Room ‘A’, upstairs in Childwall Fiveways Centre, on the first Tuesday of every month from 6.00-7.30pm. Patients, former patients, family, friends & carers all welcome!! For more info ring Helen 07948 120955 BROUGHTON HALL CENTRE Yew Tree Lane West Derby L12 9HJ. The Centre for Day Courses Training and Community Events 07980 187 888 E: Barbra.sinclair@broughtohall.co.uk C.A.B. with immediate effect the Fri morning weekly C.A.B. drop in (10am to 12noon) has moved from United Reformed Church Stoneycroft to Tuebrook Hope Centre, Christ Church Buckingham Rd. L13 CHARITY TABLE SALE At the Bridge Centre Trust, every Saturday from 9am to 2.30 pm (pitch available only £7.00). 2 Daneville Road, L4 9RG. Phone 0151 792 8711 CHRIST CHURCH CENTRE, SEDGEMOOR RD. Coffee morning in church centre, Tues 10am-12noon. Make new friends or relax with old ones, everybody welcome. Call Helen on 0151 474 1444 for info. Connect ‘n’ Create. Come along for company, a cuppa and a bit of craft or anything creative! All skills, all levels! Wednesdays 10am-12noon. Call Barbara 0151 226 2992 for more. CROXTETH HALL GARDEN SOCIETY We are a friendly group who meet in Croxteth Hall every 1st and 3rd Thursday evening of the month at 7.30pm. Annual membership is £10 which includes refreshments and raffle. If you’re
interested in gardening why not join us. Please ring Jim or Pauline on 0151 928 5625 – visit our website www.croxteth.net CROXTETH RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION See our website for details. www. co-residents-association.co.uk COFFEE MORNING Wed between 10am – 11.30am young at hearts club every Thurs. 2pm – 4pm. Church of the Good Shepherd Community Rooms, Lover House Lane L11. 2SF. For info call Barbara, older persons community worker on 0151 226 2992. DEYSBROOK YOUNG AT HEART GROUP Meet every Friday 11.00 to 12.30 (except Bank Holidays) at the Deysbrook Village Centre, Deysbrook Way, Liverpool 12. There is a range of activities - creative as well as fun; occasional trips; enjoy a cuppa and a chat. All welcome. DEYSBROOK KNIT AND NATTER Meets at Deysbrook Village Centre on Mondays at 11.00. Beginners and experienced knitters and crocheters welcome. DO YOU LIKE BOARD GAMES? We meet on the second Tuesday evening of every month at Kensington Community Learning Centre. If you fancy being Dominant at Dominion, Champion of Carcassone, Mesmerising at Medici or Railroading everyone at Ticket to Ride – this is the place for you! Dozens of games to try each month. For full details see www.kclc.co.uk/what-s-on/ board-games-evening/ or Kensington Community Learning Centre CIC on Facebook ECZEMA SUPPORT GROUP We are looking for new volunteers to assist with awareness/fundraising events. Contact Mike Birch. mike-birch@blueyonder. co.uk, for info about our work FED UP? Crown Green Bowling for the Gardeners Arms. All new members welcome, beginners (tuition can be arranged if requested) or experienced players. Ladies & Gents teams. Thought the Gardeners Arms Pub has been pulled down our bowling green is still going strong! For info call 0151 228 7792 ROY CASTLE FAGENDS Stop Smoking Support Groups. Weekly: Cohen’s Chemist, Mon 11.30am – 12.45am. Old Swan One Stop Mon 1.30pm – 2.15pm. West Derby Millennium Centre Tue 5.30-6.45pm Yew tree CC Tue 9- 10.15 am and 3.30-4.45pm , Green Lane Pharmacy Tuebrook Sat 10-11.45am Excluding bank holidays (no appointment necessary) free support and access to Nicotine Replacement therapy & Champix Freephone 0800 195 2131 FIBROMATES – NORTH WEST FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP Meets every month. If you have fibromyalgia, or care for someone who has it, you are most welcome to join us. We are a very friendly group who meet once a month to support each other and share information about managing fibromyalgia. Please contact Anne Pritchard on 07912 084549. FRIENDSHIP GROUP: The “O60 Club” Meets on alternate Thursday afternoons at Oakvale URC, Broadgreen Road at 2-30pm. We have interesting speakers and other activities include holidays, outings and pub lunches once a month. If you are interested in meeting friendly people, please call one of the following numbers: 0151 722 0143 or 0151 226 1984. GUIDED WALKS Re-trace the rich tapestry of Liverpool’s colourful history. Admire stunning
architecture and discover amazing hidden gems. Tours led by qualified guides. Email: citywalks@outlook.com INDOOR BOWLING Have fun at our indoor bowling at St Luke’s Community Centre Princess Drive, West Derby. Mon at 2pm – 3.30 p.m. £1.50 includes a cuppa and cake. Call Lorraine Brown 228 9062 for details. Lunch club 1 till 2pm seniors JACOBS LADIES BOWLING CLUB Play Monday afternoons at the Sefton Arms West Derby. New Members needed, beginners or experienced players warmly welcome. Come and meet our friendly team. Contact Irene (0151-2923570) or Lena (0151-475-5167). KEEP FIT OVER 50’S Huyton Gateway, 115 Rupert Road Huyton L36 9TE a great friendly class for anyone aged 50 + Keep fit improve strength balance and meet new friends. Monday 10 – 11am £3 per class. LADIES BOWLING CLUB Farmer’s Arms, Clubmoor. Our friendly team needs new members. Beginners or experienced players will be warmly welcomed. For information contact Ann on 0151 256 0681. LINE DANCING Huyton Gateway 115 Rupert Rd Huyton L36 9TE Keep fit have fun, beginners welcome. Every Wed 10 a.m. – 11am £3 per class LIVERPOOL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY Meet at Leighton Observatory, Pex Hill, Cronton, nr Widnes, every Wed. from 7pm. Monthly meetings held at the Friends Meeting House, 22 School Lane, Liverpool City Centre, every third Friday between September-May. Membership is £15 per year for adults, £5 for juniors 14-17 yrs. Contact Secretary: ggastro@liverpool. ac.uk. LIVERPOOL BACKGAMMON CLUB Meets on the last Friday of the month at 7 Croxteth Road, Liverpool, L8 3SE. Doors open 7pm. The club is for all levels of play. For further details see our website at liverpoolbackgammon.co.uk or phone 07931 553829. Free lessons also available. LITTLE STEPS For preschool children and carers. St Christopher’s, Lorenzo Drive. Wednesdays 9.45am-11.15am Term time. No waiting list. No lower age limit. Just come along or call Sue 0151 226 2992. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN’S CLUBS (NAWC) The NAWC meet at Lowlands in Haymans Green every Thursday between 2 and 4 pm. Come and enjoy a friendly afternoon. We enjoy guest speakers, outings, theatre trips amongst many other activities. – All are made welcome. Further details about other clubs in Liverpool contact – Pat Blair (0151) 228 0316 or email patblair33@ gmail.com NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN’S CLUBS Thomas Lane Women’s Club are now at The Millennium Centre in West Derby Village, adjacent to St.Mary’s Church. Friday afternoon, 1.30 pm to 3.00 pm. Friendly group, all welcome. OVER 50’S KEEP FIT CLASS Keep Fit class for ages 50+ with inspiring standing/chair-based exercises, Fridays 12.30-1.30pm. Held at St Aidan’s Church Hall, Cherry Lane, Walton, L4 6UG. £3.50 per class, pay as you go. For more information please contact Amy: 07507 015 227 or amy_sand1@hotmail.com. PARENT & TODDLERS FOR PRESCHOOL CHILDREN Monday morning 9.15am – 11.15am during term time at Ebenezer Chapel, corner of Queens Drive and Stanley Park
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Ave. Come along for a warm welcome cup of tea and chat. Call Mrs Wright. 0151 256 5880 PARKINSON’S SOUTH LIVERPOOL GROUP We meet on the second Thursday of each month at Bridge Chapel Heath Road, Liverpool, L19 4XR at 7.15pm. Come and join us for an informal chat and helpful advice regarding Parkinson’s with quest speakers. PRESCOT & DISTRICT BRIDGE CLUB Duplicate Bridge every Wednesday evening at 7.15 p.m. at Huyton & Prescot Golf Club, Huyton Lane, Huyton, L36 1AU. Easily accessible, large car park, friendly atmosphere. For further information contact 0151 426 3050 or www.bridgewebs.com/prescot RICHIE THE RANGER GUIDED WALKS: Discover historic sites, beautiful green areas, and tranquil woodlands… all on your doorstep. Contact Richie Baker for info about his guided tours and walks within the city. Email richietheranger@ gmail.com ROBY GARDENING SOCIETY Is a well-established friendly local gardening group. Visitors and new members are very welcome to come to meetings held on the 1st Tuesday each month at 8pm. Meetings held at Page Moss Baptist Church hall, Page Moss Lane, Liverpool L14 0LZ. Admission £1.50, with refreshments. Varied programme for gardeners. Please ring Jo 0151 289 8335. ROYAL SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE SOCIETY Classes at Oakvale United Reform Church, Broadgreen Rd; Wednesday 7.30 to 8.15pm (beginners) and 8.30 to 9.50pm for more experienced dancers. All welcome, all you need is a pair of soft, flat shoes. For info telephone Rosemary (0151) 281 0317 or visit www.rscds-liverpool.org.uk SCARISBRICK RESIDENTS Scarisbrick Residents and Tenants Association meet every second Tue of the month at Lemington Rd School Dinner Centre 6.30pm visit our website for info. www.scarisbrickresidents.info St James CE Mill Lane West Derby. The 5K Café is held every Thurs term time from 11 am to 1.30pm. Lovely food and good company. Donations towards lunch appreciated. SEWERS AND KNITTERS WANTED Project Linus (projectlinusuk.org. uk) makes quilts/blankets for local children who are ill or in distressing situations. We welcome handmade items for all ages, we can provide fabric/wool if required and will arrange collection. If you can help, please contact caroline.fogell@ yahoo.co.uk We are a group of women, sharing a global vision with Soroptimist International. We work together through service projects, fund-raising and advocacy to advance human rights and the status of girls and women. We meet monthly on the fourth Wednesday at 7pm: Sefton Park Hotel, 37 Aigburth Drive, Liverpool L17 4JE. For further details, contact annegrimes19@gmail.com; mobile 07814 564649 TEA DANCE St Luke’s West Derby, Princess Drive, L14. Tel 228 9063 Fri 2 to 3.30pm all welcome. Lunch Club 1-2pm seniors TEA DANCE Monday 1.30 -4pm. Navy Club, Bowring Park. Tel: 0151 280 5050 or 220 1332 THE BRIDGE CENTRE The Bridge Centre old Bridge Inn Pub Broadway L4 9RG. FREE Counselling
Service every Wed 10am till 3pm. To book an appointment call 07540177958 ask for Sue. Zumba Classes Tue 6.30pm till 7.30pm. Wed 9.30am till 10.30am. Chair Based Tia Chi Classes. Thurs. 10.30 till 11.30 only £2.50. Ballroom Classes Tue 1.30 till 2.30 pm £3. Tia Chi Classes Tue 11.30 till noon. THE PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT & INFORMATION GROUP Informal meeting held on last Wed. in the month (except Dec) at Sunflowers Centre, 21 Aigburth Rd, L17 4JR. Separate meeting rooms available for partners and carers. For info 0151 726 8934 TUEBROOK HOPE CENTRE, BUCKINGHAM ROAD As a local community led charity we are keen to promote and host a range of health, leisure and social activities for neighbours of all ages. Monday mornings (9.30am): Yoga classes, Tuesday evenings (7-8pm): Tai Chi classes, Wednesday evenings (7-8pm): Drama Group for Adults Thursday evenings (7-8pm): Mojo Theatre group for young people aged 11 to 16. Friday lunchtimes (12noon-1pm): Yoga classes WILLS & POWER OF ATTORNEY Do you need a speaker for your group? If so then contact Gaynor Lanceley Solicitors at Paul Crowley & Co (West Derby) 0151 226 2020 YOGA HUYTON GATEWAY 115 Rupert Rd, Huyton L36 9TE. Relaxed friendly hatha yoga class taught by Frank Perry. Beginners welcome. Every Mon., 11.15am –12.15 pm and Thurs., 6–7pm; £3 per class. GIGGLETOTZ SOFT PLAY We run parent and Toddler groups on Tuesdays in St Mary’s Millennium Centre, West Derby 10am-12noon & Fridays in St Ann’s Millennium Centre, Rainhill, 10am-12noon. All children under the age of 5 are welcome, £3 per child. For younger babies we run 5 week baby massage courses in both venues. For details visit www.giggletotz.co.uk ASPERGER CARERS GROUP Held on the first Monday of each month at Rathbone Hospital, Library Building, William House, Mill Lane, Liverpool L13 4AW. For info contact 07887 369550 or aspergerconnections@yahoo.co.uk . WEST DERBY RECS BOWLING CLUB Would you like to play crown green bowls? Ladies and Gents teams looking for new members; experienced or beginners welcomed for the new season. Contact Keith (07999 724879) or Beryl (0151 480 0118) ADULT DISABILITY ACTIVITY DAY Every Monday daytime from 11am to 3pm adult disability activity day; it includes DJ with karaoke, dancing, chair based exercise, bingo, play your cards right, full size snooker table, dart board, loads of prizes and much more. Free car park. At The New Derry Social Club, Mere Lane, Liverpool, L5 0QW. Run by P.A.C and the Derry Club. LCRA WALKING GROUP A Liverpool based group who organise regular Sunday coach rambles to the Lake District, North Wales, Peak District and Yorkshire Dales. Walks are graded to suit all abilities. The club also arranges weekends away and social activities. To find out more call Will on 0151 486 6541, find us on facebook, or visit www. liverpoolcatholicramblers.com
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Christmas grottos: here’s our super Santa six ... HAVE you been naughty or nice this year? Well, Santa is on his way from the North Pole to Liverpool to find out who is on his magical list? Your little ones can meet him at specially created grottos across the city and, if they are on their best behaviour, they might even receive a special Christmas gift. There’s not long to go until December 25, so to help decide where you wish to meet the man in red, we have put together a super Santa six… Liverpool’s Famous Magical Grotto at Rapid The amazing, magical Christmas grotto was formerly at Lewis’s and is now a regular feature at Rapid, Williamson Square, Liverpool city centre. Runs from: November 5 until Christmas Eve. Opening times: Open daily until Christmas Eve, December 24 – times vary. (Updates on Facebook – Lewis’s Grotto at Rapid). Price: £7.50, plus £1 for all other visitors. What that gets you: Entry to the grotto, meeting Santa and a special gift. Bookings:
sugar mice and follow the festive trails, and more. And, of course, visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Bookings: You can go along on the day or pre-book – 0344 249 1895. For more information please call Speke Hall on 0151 427 7231 or visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/spekehall
Payment is by cash only, on the day. Santa’s Magical Grotto After a number of years at St George’s Hall, Santa has decided to have a change of scene for Christmas 2016 and is setting up his new Grotto in the grand setting of the city’s Town Hall. Bookings: Pay on entry at the door, or Purchase in person at TicketQuarter, Queen Square, Liverpool, online at www.ticketquarter. co.uk or on 0844 800 0410. Victorian Christmas at Speke Hall Experience Speke Hall decorated for a traditional Victorian Christmas. Listen to carols, enjoy
Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot L34 4AN Runs from: Every Saturday and Sunday, from November 19 – December 11, and then daily from Friday, December 16 to Friday, December 23. Opening times: 10am to 4.30pm (grotto). Bookings: There is no pre-booking available but visitors to the safari park can book a time slot on arrival for any time in the day. Santa’s Grotto at Dobbies in Speke Bookings: Advance booking is recommended at www. dobbies.com Santa Land at Calderstones Park Bookings: Booking is advised at www.ticketquarter. co.uk/online/santaland
Snow’s guaranteed this Christmas THE Snowflake Trail will be returning to Liverpool to capture the imagination of young and old from December 1 to January 3. All ages can follow the story-telling trail through city centre streets to see landmarks transformed with dazzling lights, swirling soundscapes and interactive illustrations, and discover 12 giant sculptural snowflakes. After a national call for submissions, 12 snowflake designs have been revealed. This year’s artists come from as far afield as Bath and York, as well as Liverpool, and their creative designs range from a giant Christmas pudding to star constellations and exotic animals.
Trail followers can make the story come alive with interactive illustrations across city centre shop fronts and a giant book in Williamson Square simply by downloading augmented reality app Aspect free from their Apple or Android devices from December 1. They can also take over the big light window on the front of FACT with six different snowflake designs, specially created to choose from. By tweeting #SnowflakeTrail followed by a favourite snowflake numbered from 1- 6 and favourite colour from a list, they can see it appear. This year’s Snowflake Trail also offers great prizes
donated by Liverpool BID Company members including a weekend for four in Liverpool with hotel, gift vouchers, meals and entertainment worth £1,200. To enter, just pick up a free Snowflake Trail map from participating retailers, answer a simple question, then submit it via email or freepost. Throughout December there will also be prizes given away to people who have used the #SnowflakeTrail on social media - so share your pics! The Snowflake Trail, part of One Magical City, is supported by Liverpool BID Company and produced by Open Culture on behalf of businesses in the city centre.
Win a family ticket to Aladdin panto at The Epstein Theatre TWO family tickets up for grabs but be quick – entries need to be in by December 7. It’s panto season! LHK Productions presents Aladdin, the story of a Chinese street urchin, which is sure to take you on a magic carpet ride of excitement from December 8 to January 8. Atomic Kitten star Natasha Hamilton plays the beautiful Princess Jasmine
as she leads an all-star cast which will enchant you with this much loved family pantomime! Magaluf Weekender’s gorgeous Jordan Davies will be granting everyone’s wishes as Genie of the Lamp, one half of hit X Factor duo Same Difference, Sean Smith arrives into Liverpool with his boyish charm and amazing voice to play the title role of Aladdin, while Liverpool’s own Big Brother star Mark Byron brings the
bling as Slave of the Ring. To enter our free prize draw please send your name, address and telephone number (to reach us no later than December 7) to Aladdin Panto Tickets Draw, Liverpool LINK, PO Box 170, Liverpool, L25 7WS. Alternatively, you can email your name, address and telephone number to linkaccountsmoi@yahoo. co.uk and insert Aladdin Pantomime in the subject box.
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Men’s large black leather coat good quality and condition £60. M: 0777 229 3241 Men’s clothing v.g.c. £30. Men’s shoes size 9 3 pair £15. 0151 733 5196 Sony digital tuner CFD 51504 C.D. Radio cassette recorder new still in box £25. 0151 Table top single foldaway bed good clean condition £45. 0151 737 1492 Car Seat Maxi Cosi Tobi in black suitable for 9 months to 4 years. Easy to fit, in good condition £40 o.n.o. Solid Pine Winnie the Pooh Cot Bed, from birth to 4 years. 3 positions for mattresses base height. Easy conversion to junior bed 140 x 70cm good condition £50 o.n.o. Lascal Maxi Buggy board and all connectors in good condition £30. o.n.o. All from pet and smoke free home. Open to reasonable offers M: 07770 744711
TO ADVERTISE PLEASE SEE PAGE FOUR Wanted. Baby’s high chair, for Christmas visitor must be in good clean condition. M: 07930 654 264
Two mirrors 4ft x 3.1/2 foot no frames heavy £100 M: 0775 6518 028 Stamina Pilates Premier XP Reformer. Quick assembly and includes workout video (Cost £350) sell £80 new condition. George Forman (lean mean grilling machine) large new unused (still in box with instructions) £25. Baby Bouncer (Fisher Price Rainforest Jumperoo) John Lewis excellent condition £45. 0151 722 2471
Coffee table, tiled inlay, very large and very Cement Mixer £70 0151 256 heavy 42” x 42” can supply a photo by e mail. 6682 Buyer must collect. £100 M: 07930 654 264 Whirlpool, Fridge Freezer £30. 3 seater settee. Natuzzi, untreated leather, Buyer collects M: 0771 2538 313 wine coloured, can supply a photo by e mail. Buyer must collect. £130 M: 07930 654 264 Dry Buddy Dryer new £35. 0151 733 1601 Men’s large tan leather coat mint condition never been worn. £65. Men’s quartz sports Large shower box door safety glass £60 o.n.o. M: 0793241 5711 watch £20. Bed handle with straps £5. 0777 229 3241 Ercol circular oak dining table with 4 chairs, drop leaf table mint condition £75. 0151 733 3028 (evenings) Two seater settee and pouffee, jade floral hardly used £60 o.n.o. 0151 427 6681 M: 0779 5060 141 Electric fire floor standing simplex silver coal and pebbles v.g.c. £50 o.n.o.0151 427 6681 M: 0779 5060 141 GML50 Brand new professional Bosch £150 o.n.o. M: 0773 3390 679 HP Photo smart all in one printer £50. Sony camcorder bag, as new £50. Mobile phone liquid E3 as new £35. Sony laptop good condition £40. Nikon Coolpix video camera £20. 0151 480 0893 Shower enclosure chrome sliding door rectangular base 800 x 1200. 0151 222 3282 Golf trolley bag and set of golf clubs all good condition £85. o.n.o. 0777 3188 940 Infinity fitness strider very good condition £15. M: 0759 8816 375 Superior computer desk as new worth viewing £40 o.n.o. 0151 428 3437 Christmas 7 bulb wooden arch candle £5 (perfect condition) 0151 228 6734 Sky box (new type) as new £20. 0151 727 1942. M: 0786 0484 609 Electric golf Trolley (little used) £50. 0151 256 7560. Man’s black leather jacket (Large) £10. 0151 280 1462 Nearly new small battery fit most small cars cost £45 accept £20 M: 07564 833 175 Five wheels and tyres off Fiat Siciento but tyres will fit most small cars £50 o.n.o. will split M 07364 833 175 Squier Bronco short scale bass guitar and stagg 20W AMP unused gift £95. 0151 222 9937 Burberry scarf 100% cashmere pewter unworn with labels 168 x 30 £120. 0151 222 9937 Mitre chop lazer saw 3 new blades 6 months old £50. 0151 260 6524 M: 0794 0099 685 New Triple alloy ladder closed 5ft 6” open 14ft wit stand £40 will deliver 0151 260 6524 M: 0794 0099 685 Sofa bed brown faux leather new bought in error £50 o.n.o. M: 0752 234 6643 Boy’s ridgeback MX terrain bike suit 3 to 7 years old cost £169 hardly used £50 o.n.o. M 07522 346 643 Pool table with balls and cues nearly new £20 4ft 6” x 2ft 3” 0151 256 6716 John Lewis dining table oak cost £400 sell or £160 one year old excellent condition. 0151 427 7222 8MM cine sound projector £10. 0151 722 4929 Modern screen movies magazines 1949/50 good condition £25. 0151 428 3026 Full size acoustic guitar new nylon strings v.g.c. 3500 M: 0751 896 8828 Beko gas cooker free standing 4 rings oven and grill complete with hose £60 M: 0794 6440 262 0151 428 1568
Hoover under counter fridge used one week bought for £140 sell for £70 new condition space needed. Garden vac/blower challenge £10. Motorbike tank net £10. Motor bike chain lock £15. 0151 256 7630 Silver reed electric type writer £50. 0151 428 1316 Silver towel bathroom radiator 24 x 31 £25 very good condition. 0151 546 0252 Black and decker workmate and instructions very good condition £35. Tesco 18V lithium ion cordless hammer drill with battery, recharger box and instructions very good condition £40. Bosch TST650 500W Jigsaw and box good condition £35. Black and decker compact lithium ion electric cordless screwdriver with instructions recharger and box very good condition £30. Black and
decker KA272 sander with accessories instructions and bag good condition £30. M: 0790 4170 195 Display unit very attractive with shelves top and bottom in solid polished antique pine cost £450 sell £125 o.n.o Also new grey rug from Next cost £70 sell for £30 0151 521 4113 or 0771 2725 845 Blue tandem timeline reflex duel power brand new cycle £170 07913 867 885 Folding snooker table £100 good condition 0151 722 0069 Alloy frame deck chair adjustable back in good condition£15 0151 722 4929 Cine sound projector super 8mm £10 0151 722 1924
13
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WHAT OUR ADVERTISERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US Dear Moira, I just wanted to let you know how happy I am with the service provided by The LINK and with you in particular, in the account handling of my business advertising. Your service from start to finish has been exemplary and on a professional, knowledgeable, yet friendly level that far exceeds all other advertising agencies I have dealt with. Nothing ever seems to be too much trouble to you and I am made to feel unique, never feeling that I am just one of many clients that you have to deal with each day. It is so refreshing to receive a prompt I have advertised in the LINK for 9 years and I would be lost without it now!!! Many thanks to you all at The LINK From Paul - P & L BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS (COMPLETE BATHROOMS & KITCHENS FULLY FITTED)
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General Knowledge
LINK Quiz Page
1. The first commercial Christmas card was designed in what year? (a) 1803 (b) 1843 (c) 1883 2. What name is given to the 12th day of Christmas (06 January)? (a) Advent (b) Epiphany (c) Hogmanay 3. Who was responsible for banning Christmas between 1647 and 1660? (a) Oliver Cromwell (b) Elizabeth I (c) Henry VIII 4. In which European country is the tradition of erecting Christmas trees said to have originated? (a) Britain (b) France (c) Germany 5. The Xmas tree in Trafalgar Square is an annual gift from which country? (a) Denmark (b) Norway (c) Sweden 6. Who wrote the book “A Christmas Carol”? (a) Dickens (b) Milton (c) Shakespeare 7. In the Xmas carol “The 12 Days of Xmas”, how many swans were a-swimming? 8. What three gifts did the Wise Men bring to Jesus? 9. In which country is Father Christmas known as Babbo Natale? (a) Italy (b) Portugal (c) South Africa? 10. In what language is Christmas called La Navidad? (a) French (b) Greek (c) Italian
Sudoku answers in next month’s edition of the LINK
Quick Crossword
Sudoku
Pop Quiz 1. Doug Yule was a member of which legendary U.S. band from 1968 to 1973? (a) Doobie Bros (b) Little Feat (c) Velvet Underground
To enter send your completed Sudoku, with your name, address and telephone number to: SUDOKU, PO. Box 170, Liverpool LINK, liverpool L25 7WK by the 14th December 2016.
2. Keith Christmas played acoustic guitar on which 1969 hit single by David Bowie? (a) John, I’m Only Dancing (b) Space Oddity (c) Starman?
The winner’s name will be published in the next months issue. Sudoku is a highly addictive puzzle game with one rule: Place the number from 1 to 9 in each row, in each column and each 3 x 3 box.
3. Which one of the following was not recorded by Buddy Holly? (a) Chantilly Lace (b) Heartbeat (c) Peggy Sue? 4. In what year did The Ivy League have three hit singles? (a) 1960 (b) 1965 (c) 1970? 5. “Rapper’s Delight” was a 1979 hit single by: (a) Grandmaster Flash (b) Public Enemy or (c) The Sugarhill Gang? Across
Name ......................................................... Tel No: ............................................... Address Send to
1. “We Wish You a Merry ---------” (9) 5. “Once -- Royal David’s City” (2) 6. Street where the Prime Minister might have her Xmas dinner? (7) 8. Noise made by a cow! (3) 9. Science fiction (abbrev.) (1,1) 10. What Santa might say to a child who hasn’t been good! (2) 11. “On the first day of Christmas, my true ---- sent to me” (4) 15. What the reindeers do to Santa’s sleigh (4) 16. The colour of Rudolph’s nose! (3) 19. “A ray of ---- flickers in the sky” (Lyrics: “When a Child is Born”) (4) 22. Received (3) 23. A form of welding (or a Neil Young live album!) (3) 25. Book by Frank McCourt: sequel to “Angela’s Ashes” (3) 27. Underneath which to get a Christmas kiss! (9)
Sudoku, Liverpool Link, P.O. BOX 170, LIVERPOOL L25 7WX
Crossword Solutions
General Knowledge 1. 1843 2. Epiphany 3. Oliver Cromwell 4. Germany 5. Norway 6. Dickens 7. Seven 8. Gold, frankincense & myrrh 9. Italy 10. Spanish
Down: 1. Chimney 2. Rudolph 3. Tinsel 4. Sign 7. If 12. OU 13. VLM 14. Grotto 17. EP 18. Decs 19. Ho 20. Tai 21. Fat 22. GCE 24. RL 26. IE Across: 1. Christmas 5. In 6. Downing 8. Moo 9. SF 10. No 11. Love 15. Pull 16. Red 19. Hope 22. Got 23. Arc 25. Tis 27. Mistletoe
Last Month’s Sudoku
Pop Quiz 1. Velvet Underground 2. Space Oddity 3. Chantilly Lace 4. 1965 5. Sugarhill Gang 6. Percy Sledge 7. Snow Patrol 8. Queen 9. Spice Girls 10. Kool & the Gang
This Month’s Quiz Answers
Down
1. Down which Santa comes to deliver the presents! (7) 2. The reindeer with the red nose! (7) 3. Thin, glittery strip used for decorating Xmas trees, etc. (6) 4. If you were born on Dec.25, Capricorn would be your star ---- (4) 7. Famous Rudyard Kipling poem (2) 12. Open University (1,1) 13. Airline which used to operate flights between L’pool & London (1,1,1) 14. Workshop where one would visit Santa! (6) 17. Vinyl record longer than a single and shorter than an LP (1,1) 18. Decorations (abbrev.) (4) 19. Yo Ho -- ! (2) 20. Mai --- (cocktail) (3) 21. “Christmas is coming, the goose is getting ---” (3) 22. Educational qualification, now replaced by the GCSE (1,1,1) 24. -- Stevenson: author of “Treasure Island”, etc. (1,1) 26. That is (1,1)
Competition Winners Ken Dodd tickets winners Ice Skating Tickets winners Mrs M Thompson, L4 Too many to list Mr J T Little, L17 Mr P Meikle, L19 LILLY LINK Mrs McGrath L35 Ken Dodd tickets and J Bradley L12 2 Tickets to Ken Dodd Christmas Luncheon SODOKU Mr C R Edwards, L13l Mrs Hope L16 Santaland Family Ticket B Lloyd L12 winner Mrs M Kane, L19
6. Which soul singer is best known for his 1966 hit single “When a Man Loves a Woman”? 7. Which Scottish band have released the albums “Songs for Polar Bears”, “Final Straw” and “Eyes Open”? 8. Which band had the Xmas no.1 single in 1975 and the Xmas no. 1 again in 1991 with the same song? (a) Band Aid (b) Queen (c) Slade? 9. Who had the Xmas no. 1 single in 1996, 1997 & 1998, with a different song each time? (a) Michael Jackson (b) The Spice Girls (c) Take That? 10. Members of which group were the only Americans to feature on “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” (a) The Commodores (b) The Jacksons (c) Kool and the Gang?
Sudoku Answers In the next issue
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15
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South make progress in the Challenge Cup
By Jim Stanway
A 1-0 Pyke Cup defeat by local rivals Mossley Hill, exacting revenge for defeat in last season’s final, has prevented South Liverpool FC from achieving a second successive treble, but a solid 3-2 win at Alumni, last season’s semi-finalists, in the third round of the Liverpool County FA Challenge Cup, has kept alive the prospects of a double. Goals from Gary Dunning, Curtis Cummins and Alex Woodcock was enough to see off the Liverpool County Premier League outfit and the quarter final draw sees South with a fourth successive away tie, this time at Lower Breck, another Liverpool County FA Premier Division side.
South have found it difficult to eke out wins in the league, four successive draws having prevented a charge up the table, although there is little to choose between the whole top half of the league table at the moment. Two tight games against Capenhurst Villa, fellow candidates for the league title, saw South score two goals in the last five minutes through Alex Woodcock and Gary Dunning to achieve a 3-3 draw while a Peter McShane equaliser saw the second game end 1-1. Other draws have seen South draw 2-2 at Heswall with goals from Steve Kelly and Paul Lundon and 2-2 at home to West Kirby with goals from Alex Woodcock and Tom Jarir.
The reserves have steadied the ship with three unbeaten games including a 6-2 win at Heswall Reserves, with pride of place going to Craig Byrne with the first hat-trick of his career. A 5-1 win at Mossley Hill Reserves saw doubles for John Murphy and Francis Evans and a superb effort from David Mee. South’s youth team continued their magnificent start to the season with an 8-0 win over Ellesmere Port Town. Despite losing strikers Luke Wilson and Curtis Elias, Rob Lewis scored his second successive hat-trick and there were first goals of the season for Luke Walsh, Liam Murphy, Chris Wilkinson, Charlie Farrell and a second for Jamie Cassidy.
River under 11s going well River Juniors u11s suffered their first defeat of the season against Football League side Port Vale Academy under 11s, narrowly being edged out 4-2 over 80 minutes. The boys were fantastic and were level at 2-2 over 60 minutes moving into the last quarter. However, tiredness and the lack of substitutes told on the boys who were also missing three key players in Smith, Kamara and Clay. Normal service was swiftly resumed, however, against Preston North End where the boys were comfortable 7-5 winners albeit against a mixture of
their under 10s and under 11s. The second half in particular was pretty much one-way traffic, with River on top throughout. In the APJFL league, the boys face a top-of-thetable clash versus Athletico Warriors this coming Saturday after recent convincing wins against Aintree Villa u12s (13-0), Mossley Hill u12s (4-0) and Viking Colts u12s (4-0). On Sundays in the Walton and Kirkdale JFL the team have maintained their 100 per cent record with wins against Bootle FC 3-0, Litherland Remyca 4-1, Quarry Green Pumas 7-1
and Cobra 4-1. They face Knowsley South in the first round of the Knockout Cup this coming Sunday – a team they beat 7-0 earlier in the season. The team have some strong tests coming up over the next few weeks with games planned against Blackpool, Accrington Stanley and Shrewsbury Town Academies on the agenda as well as some decent fixtures on both days in League and Cup.
Team: D. Jones, J. Storey, H. Edgar, N. Doforo, C. Murphy, K. Kamara, L. Roberts, S. Smith, S. Clay, G. McPartland, A. Trapasso, C. Trapasso, S. Pollard, S. Roche, J. Dunne.
The end of an era ... and a new beginning for Croft? By Mick Titherington
After over 100 years of history with all the highs and lows, the joys and sorrows, the friendships and bonds formed and felt over the generations that that length of time embraces, Stoneycroft Football Club have had to pull down the curtain on first team football. Officials at the club have had to face the inevitable with the realisation that they just could not field a side of sufficient quality and reliability to compete at the level they have done so for 105 years. Followers of the club’s fortunes will have observed the poor run of results over recent seasons and will be well versed with the problems surrounding the club in finding the
players that could perform at a particular level and these problems were then exacerbated with the manager’s decision to leave. Some will see the decision as just another casualty in the continuing decline in grassroots football and with an ever-diminishing number of clubs competing at amateur level the FA are right to be concerned. It will be difficult for those who have not been associated with the club to understand what a monumental decision this has been for those involved. Long-time chairman Kenny Morrison, who together with secretary Mick Titherington have an aggregate of 100 years’ service with the club, expressed his feelings by saying “When a club has
been your life for so long one can’t describe the heartache behind the decision to resign our membership of the Liverpool Premier League. “The fact is that without a manager and with an inability to attract quality players against a background of a diminishing number of active committee members there really was no choice.” It’s not all doom and gloom, however, as the club will retain a youth side under the stewardship of Lee Scott and the hope is that sometime in the future, as the team matures, the club will be able to re-enter a side in the senior league and begin a new era in the club’s evolution. Stoneycroft Vets will also continue and both teams’ fortunes will be reported on as we go forward.
Good times on and off the pitch for Liverpool Sefton By Chris Thomas
The season is now in full swing on and off the pitch for Liverpool Sefton Hockey Club. The end of October brought the annual Halloween party. As usual there was a wide range of fancy dress costumes and plenty of frightening sights for all those that attended. November also saw three members of the club attend the Merseyside Sports Dinner following Liverpool
Cricket Club being selected as Liverpool’s Sports Club of the Year. December brings the traditional “12 Pubs of Christmas” social event, a good chance to sample some of Liverpool’s historic pubs and, of course, Christmas jumpers are compulsory. On the pitch all teams continue to register positive results. The morning after the Halloween party, despite some sore heads, the men’s second team registered an
excellent 1-0 National Cup win against the City of York. They left it late, with the winning goal from James Rhodes coming in the last minute of the match. The juniors also made their debut in the Women’s under 18s’ National Trophy which bodes well for the future of the club. As the season continue,s members hope to continue enjoying positive results on the pitch and each other’s company off it.
16
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Alder FC make great start to the season By Peter Harrison
OUR Liverpool Nalgo team has made a great start to the season with only one defeat in all games. Their latest victory saw an emphatic 6-1 win in the Challenge Cup against South Sefton, which now sees them through to the quarter-finals. Goalscorers on the day were Fran Smith, Gilbo and the ever reliable Buck with a hat trick. This followed up a number of league victories including a 4-2 victory
over MSB Woolton, with Timmy Naylor, Seb Langley and Liam Leary on the scoresheet, and a 5-4 thriller against Lower Breck with Tony Holden scoring a rare goal. The Alder team are midtable after a solid 5-2 victory against Eli Lilley – Terry Tynan, Danny McNally, Paul Halliday and Peter Moore all netting – and scored a last minute equaliser in a thrilling 4-4 home draw against BRNESC with regular
marksman Sean Davis amongst the scorers. It’s great to see that the ladies team have reformed, with Paul Barnes taking the managerial reins again, and the Veterans have two teams on a Sunday. Pictured are the Over-35 team, with manager Phil Noon, who play in the West Cheshire Sunday Vet’s League. Special mention must also go to sponsor Ian Duncan of Liverpool Kick Jutsu Academy.
Merry Christmas to all readers and advertisers
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