Liverpool Life 3:6 November 04 2014 by Steve Harrison

04-November-2014

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE... NEWS

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Snakes alive! Python in the park

LIFEextra

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Wrap up warm in winter style

SPORT

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Tranmere statue honours legend

£1.5M BID TO STOP THE ROT Fund set to save historic Chinatown By AMY NICHOLSON

natown area has been massively improved but there is clearly Liverpool city council is setting much still to do within this area.” “We can build on two elements up a £1.5 million fund to save some of the most historic build- of our heritage. Firstly, the many fine but decaying buildings in the ings in the city. The fund will be used to reju- area, ranging from the former venate areas of Chinatown and bridewell to old and traditional Ropewalks which are at risk of warehouse buildings. Secondly is the location of the area as the first being lost forever. Chinatown is one of the main to be settled by a Chinese comareas that is set for regeneration munity in the whole of Western along with many of the buildings Europe. “Together these make a major on Duke Street which are also in opportunity to provide a unique need of desperate rejuvenation. The Georgian properties that visitor attraction around the bigsit in the ‘Mercantile’ area of gest Chinese arch outside mainLiverpool’s World Heritage site land China and the many excelChinese have been ‘This makes a major lent and other left to rot for years, despite opportunity to provide a restaurants.” their historic unique visitor attraction’ The report, that is set to value. David Baddeley, Manager of be approved by the cabinet next Yardbird on Duke St, told Liver- week, states: “Despite improvepool Life: “The rejuvenation will ments over recent years, there rehopefully bring more business mains a large number of derelict to the area. I think Chinatown and under occupied buildings in does need brightening up, it will Chinatown and Ropewalks. “Without assistance, several be nice to get the colour back in historic buildings are likely to the area.” The council has already put be lost as they are in such poor £300,000 of its own money in condition. “Particularly vulnerable buildto the fund and city leaders are hoping to get a grant from the ings on the list for renovations English Heritage Lottery Fund include 52 Berry St, 28 Slater St, 151-155 Duke St, 118-122 Duke to subsidise the rest. Councillor Richard Kemp, told St, 37-43 Berry St.” Liverpool Life: “Over the past 15  Continued on page 4 years the Ropewalks and Chi-

LOTTERY: The gate to Chinatown

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LJMU’s legal advice for free By OLIVIA SWAYNE ATHERTON

Liverpool John Moores University School of Law will be providing free legal advice to members of the public and start-up businesses as part of a new service. Following the success of a pilot scheme earlier this year, the University officially opened the LJMU Legal Advice Centre on Monday, November 3rd. The new Centre will cover additional areas of law and provide increased opportunities for more clients to benefit from the scheme, doubling the number of appointments available. Rachel O’Hanlon, Senior Lecturer and Legal Advice Centre Coordinator said: “We were inundated with enquiries and we are delighted to be able to provide more advice to more members of the public.” The service will be staffed by students completing the Legal Practice Course, Graduate Diploma in Law under the supervision of solicitors from local law firms. The service is entirely free and confidential.

Flock in search of a home By RICHARD EVES A shepherdess from South Wirral wants to buy a field for her sheep and all her other rescue animals, which includes goats, chickens and two Shetland ponies. At the moment they are all housed in different locations and shepherdess Gill Downey, says: “I need them all in the same place, secure and available for the community to see.” The field should be a couple of acres and in distance of Parkgate and will eventually house more rescue animals.

Life

Living wage worry hits one in four By SAMUEL PEERS

One in four workers in the North West is earning less than a living wage, according to new research. The annual report by KPMG, one of the world’s four biggest audit firms, found that just under 25% of all workers in the region earn less than £7.65, as the national Living Wage Week begins and the UK living wage rises by 20p. The UK living wage is an hourly

News Editor Owen Swift News Sam Gaulter-Green Lydia Morris Georgia Dunning Josie Timms Adrian Speed Photographer Sean Purvis

“Low pay is blighting the lives of hundreds of thousands of families across the region.” She added: “The fact is there are employers out there across the North West who can afford to pay living wages, but aren’t. “It is now time for all responsible employers to commit to adopting this standard, which enables workers to earn just enough to be able to live a decent life.” As part of Living Wage week,

which aims to raise awareness of financial issues and the danger of falling into poverty, a youth theatre group in Liverpool will be performing a play about poverty at the Black-E Theatre. The play, entitled ‘Brass Razoo’ and performed by the Seasons Playhouse, will be followed by a discussion on what is needed to combat poverty in the city, featuring local MPs Stephen Twigg and Jane Corbett, alongside the CEO of Liverpool’s

Whitechapel Homeless Service, David Carter. Other areas of the country are even worse affected by the living wage. Yorkshire and Humber and the North East have 25%, Whilst Northern Ireland fares the worst, with 27%. The region with the least number of workers earning below the living wage is London, with just 17%. As Liverpool Life went to press, Jane Corbett was unavailable for comment.

Resident association formed in Aigburth By AMY NICHOLSON A new residents association has been formed in the Jericho Lane area of Aigburth. The group, which has been in preparation for the last six months, has been established to help represent the interests of the area and its people. The group, which is made up of local residents and councillors Patrick Hurley, Emily Spurrell and Andrew Foxley, are now proposing to adopt a formal constitution. This will enable them to elect a committee to oversee ways in which improvements can be made to the area. The association held their first event on Saturday, which was a ‘Planting Day’ where local residents and councillors planted flowers around the

Jericho Farm Close Estate. Councillor Patrick Hurley, told Liverpool Life: “I’m really pleased that local people have taken up our call to form a new residents’ association in the area. “With money being so tight for both individuals and for local government these days, it’s hugely important for people to start doing more to improve our communities ourselves.” Funding for the day was provided by Mossley Hill councillors and Aigburth Hall nurseries. Cllr Hurley, added: “The Planting Day is a great way of building community spirit and encouraging people to act together. We’re trying hard in Aigburth to rebuild the sense of community that we used to have.”

HELPING OUT: Cllr Patrick Hurley at Jericho Lane in Aigburth. © Liverpool Life

String of police raids in Birkenhead

By MATTHEW JUDGE

Merseyside Police carried out a series of co-ordinated raids in Birkenhead on Tuesday morning. The raids came just a few days after local MP Frank Field hit out at the force for not doing enough to clamp down on crime levels in the area. Mr. Field, who has served as MP for Birkenhead since 1979, claimed that Merseyside Police

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rate, based on the need to meet the basic cost of living. However, it appears that not everyone in the North West has been feeling the benefit. Regional North West secretary for the Trades Union Congress, Lynn Collins, said: “People go to work and expect to earn enough to live on. “For those paid below the living wage, they are not getting a fair day’s pay for an honest day’s work.

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need to do more to crackdown on worrying crime statistics in the town. He dubbed the areas as the “Beirut of the north.” A total of 20 officers targeted a gang believed to be involved in stealing cars and motorbikes in Birkenhead. They carried out warrants at three addresses on Henthorne Street, Seymour Street and Penrith Street at around 9:15am. The operation, which came about through tip-offs from the

community, was led by silver commander Inspector Duncan Swan. Officers were asked to look out for any documentation or items that could be linked to the stolen vehicles, including car keys. They were also told to look out for any evidence that could be linked to two recent thefts involving a Mini and a Vauxhall Insignia stolen in Hoylake at the weekend. On Birkenhead’s soaring

crime rate in recent months, Mr. Field said: “We want to return Birkenhead to what it was and reverse it from becoming Beirut because that’s what we have got in places. “It’s so distressing the stories that are coming in. “They are decent people who pay their taxes and the yob culture is winning. We have got to make sure the yob culture is beaten as soon as possible.” Between July 1 and October

29, a total of 72 cars, scooters and motorbikes were reported stolen in the Birkenhead area. Police also noted a total of 172 thefts from vehicles.. Following the raids, police will dropping letters in the area to let residents know what has been going on. The police are appealing for anyone with information to help them with their work by contacting crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111,

City star joins Eppy statue campaign By REBECCA COOKSON Liverpool singer Garry Christian has become the latest celebrity from Merseyside to sing on a charity single to raise money to erect a statue of Beatles manager Brian Epstein. The lead singer of The Christians, joined fellow Statue 4 Eppy campaigners at the city’s Igloo Studios on Friday to add his vocals to the track which will be sold to fund the statue which is predicted to cost £70,000. Actors Paul Barber, Dean Sullivan, Crissy Rock, Tricia Penrose, singer Andy McCluskey and a host of Merseybeat stars have already joined Live Aidstyle recording sessions for the track titled ‘Our Friend’. Pupils from All Saints Primary School in Anfield will also be featured on the track alongside the stars.

Bob Pitt, a presenter on community radio station Mersey Radio, came up with the idea. He wrote the song aimed at spearheading a campaign to raise the funds required to have a statue of Brian Epstein designed, sculpted and erected in Liverpool City Centre. He ran his idea and the song past Billy Kinsley from The Merseybeats who immediately jumped on board. He has used his trusted friends and contacts in the music industry to organise the recording of the song, getting together many of Liverpool’s celebrities and dignitaries, all of whom were delighted to be able to do their bit to help bring recognition for Brian Epstein. It is hoped the song will go on sale in early 2015 . It will be released on a new record label that has been

formed, which is fittingly called Eppy Records’ Bob Pitt says he has secured a distribution deal which should see it sold worldwide when it is released after Christmas and would now be sold as part of a four-track EP, with the remaining three songs still to be decided. He said: “It’s been a massive project but we’re nearly there now. “We don’t want it to be lost in Christmas songs so we think the best time to release it will be the end of January or early February. Campaigners hope that the Epstein statue will find a home by his former offices in Whitechapel in the city centre. This was the location where The Beatles signed a five-year management contract that would guarantee them a farthing each for every record sold - and the rest is history.

LEGEND: Garry Christian. © Andrew_D_Hurley/Flikr

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HOST: St George’s Hall

©Wikimedia Commons/ Rept0n1x

Warmer winter advice

By REBECCA COOKSON

St George’s Hall is hosting a free event offering help and advice about keeping warm and staying healthy during the winter. The Winter Survival Community Event takes place on Wednesday 12 November from 10am until 2.30pm and is part of a campaign aimed at reducing excess deaths during the winter months. The event will have 50 exhibitors from a wide range of organisations providing information and advice on a number of issues including energy efficiency, debt, healthy living and keeping active. There will be entertainment and demonstrations throughout the day including a guest appearance from radio presenter Pete Price who will be demonstrating some chair-based keepfit activities. There will also be a free prize draw and a hot drink on arrival. Free bags of vegetables to make soup will be handed out whilst available. The event will be opened by Councillor Erica Kemp. She said: “This event is very important in providing information and advice to help people keep warm and safe. Hundreds of people have attended in previous years and have found it extremely helpful.”

Brush above the rest

Walker finds python in the park By OLIVIA ATHERTON

SWAYNE

A stroll in Sefton Park became eventful for one man as he came across a 5ft long python. Peter Agate, was walking through the park on Monday after he dropped off his daughter at school. Peter told Liverpool Life: “If you’ve got a camera in your hand you always look around for the next picture to take. The pattern of the snake caught my eye amongst the leaf litter and it took a few seconds to register what it was then I realised the size of it!” Mr Agate took to Twitter to share his amazement, tweeting: “Big snake in Sefton Park. Not something you see every day!

#liverpool.” Mr Agate added: “Surprise was the first thought that passed through my mind and then whether I should pull it from the bush or not. That thought quickly disappeared though and I left it to the professionals.” Mr Agate rang the RSPCA and the snake was later identified by an inspector as a young python. A spokesman for the RSPCA told Liverpool Life: “One of our inspectors was called to pick up a large snake from Sefton Park. The snake – a suspected carpet python – has now been taken to a local vet specialising in exotics. “We don’t know how the snake came to be here. It could possibly be someone’s missing pet or it could have been dumped.”

©Peter Agate

Heritage honour for village tribute By DAN GOULDING

As the world commemorates the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War next weekend, Port Sunlight’s War memorial has been upgraded to Grade I status. The memorial becomes only the tenth in the country and the second in Merseyside to achieve the honour. The upgrade, comes as part of The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s WWI initiative with English Heritage, a governing body that is responsible for protecting England’s historic places, to re-evaluate all First World War landmarks in the country. The Wirral village’s trust was invited to provide information about the memorial to see if it met the criteria for the top status, with the Liverpool Cenotaph having already been given the Grade I accolade. Heritage manager of the Port Sunlight village trust, Katherine Lynch, spoke of her delight at the new status, telling Liverpool Life: “To end the year with the upgrade of the war memorial is more than we could ever have

hoped for. The village’s Remembrance Day parade and service on Sunday 9th November will be even more memorable this year. “We hope that the upgrade will mean it starts to get more national and international attention.” The monument, under the theme of ‘Defence of the Home’ was designed by Welsh sculptor Sir William Goscombe John, after being commissioned to do the work by Port Sunlight Founder, William Hesketh Lever as early as 1916. The memorial was built by William Kirkpatrick Ltd, with A. Burton of Thames Ditton casting the bronze figures and was unveiled by two Lever brothers in 1921. The Cenotaph depicts men, women and children in the project and lists more than 500 names of Lever employees who were killed in battle. It received a second grade listing in 1965. Katherine Lynch spoke of the problems the sculpter faced from people at the time of construction, saying: “At the time of construction he was accused of ‘overt sentimentality’ for portraying women and children on a war memorial, but it now feels

©Port Sunlight Museum Collection

ABOVE: Upgraded Port Sunlight memorial and (inset) the older Port Sunlight memorial, 1921 like he is finally getting the credit he so richly deserves.” A spokesperson from English Heritage told Liverpool Life that the monument was unveiled as a Grade I for several rea-

sons, including historical interest and community value, and added: “The memorial stands in a prominent place within the wider context of Port Sunlight and has a strong relationship

with the buildings and layout of the complex.” Remembrance Day is on Sunday 9th November, with Port Sunlight putting on a parade and service in memory of the fallen.

Duo’s Pointless outing ends in triumph

By OLIVIA SWAYNE ATHERTON

The John Moores Painting Prize, the UK’s best-known painting competition, culminates in an exhibition held at the Walker Art Gallery every two years and forms a key strand of the Liverpool Biennial. All UK-based artists who work with paint are invited to submit work to be considered for the John Moores Painting Prize 2014 and be in with the chance of winning the £25,000 first prize or one of the four £2,500 runner up prizes. The final exhibition, which forms a major strand of the Liverpool Biennial, will open as a summer show on 5 July 2015.

CAUGHT: The python found in Sefton Park

By AMY NICHOLSON

WINNERS: Jackie and Donna

©Donna Jackson

A Liverpool duo have come up tops on a BBC gameshow, Pointless. Liverpool born and bred Donna Jackson and Jackie Spencer became winners on BBC gameshow last week, taking away a £1,750 prize. Jackie, 53, who runs her own Beatles tour around the city, told Liverpool Life: “As a Tour Guide I’ve done quite a bit of television and presenting, so I wasn’t too phased by the show but watching it back in HD was painful! “By the time we’ve filmed I just wanted to get it over with, I just didn’t want to make a spectacular fool of myself and end up on one of the blooper shows forever!”

Pointless is a quiz show where contestants are unusually tasked with finding the most obscure answers to questions. The show, which is hosted by Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman, aired last Tuesday on BBC one. Donna Jackson, 50, a lecturer at the University of Chester, told Liverpool Life: “It was very strange watching ourselves on TV and seeing how other people see you. Pointless has won a few awards and honours, and it’s very cool knowing that we are now a part of all that.” The pair had to keep their win a secret before the show aired and admit that the prize money has already been spent. Jackie has spent the money on

a pram for her first child which is due before Christmas and Donna treated herself to a lifetime membership at Chester Zoo, along with a new TV. The Liverpool ladies spent a lot of time practising in preparation for the show. Donna told Liverpool Life: “I’d be at my house and she’d be at hers, and we’d play along on Facebook. We very often did well enough to get through to the final.” Jackie co-ordinated and hosted guided tours at Liverpool John Moore’s University before setting up her own independent Beatles tours around the city. “It was great fun meeting all the potential new students and their parents.”

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Struggle goes on to keep libraries open By MATTHEW JUDGE

The ongoing dispute regarding Liverpool City Council’s proposed plans to close 11 libraries has cranked up a notch with two more protests scheduled to take place this month. Liverpool TUC and Liverpool Against the Cuts (LATC) have organised a rally outside Central Library in the city centre on November 8. Another demonstration outside a Liverpool Town Hall council meeting four days later has also been planned. These latest protests are coming off the back of an earlier rally that took place outside Central Library on October 4, with

around 200 people turning out to voice their anger towards the city council’s plans. Libraries in places such as Breck Road, Dovecot, Fazakerley, Kensington, Lee Valley, Old Swan, Sefton Park, Spellow, Walton, Wavertree and West Derby are all being earmarked for closure. Low visiting numbers and high running costs are two reasons for their potential permanent closure. Sue Ferguson, of Liverpool Against the Cuts, spoke to Liverpool Life and said: “The council don’t appear to be listening, hence the need for further demonstrations. They now have in their possession 15,000 signatures opposing the

library closures.” She continued: “The October 4 rally went very well. We were all pleased with a lot of positive feedback. It was organised very quickly and we have had longer to organise for November 8th, so we are very positive.” Alongside the organised protests, the ‘Love Letters to Liverpool Libraries’ campaign - which involves people of all ages writing a letter to Mayor Joe Anderson portesting against the proposed library closures - has also been set up to tackle the city council’s plans and has gathered 500 names so far. One of the love letters campaign organisers is Liverpool’s awardwinning children’s author Alan Gibbons, who has backed plans

for fresh protests and told Liverpool Life: “Mayor Anderson has stuck rigidly to his plans to close eleven city libraries. We are cranking up the pressure to remind him that he wasn’t elected to cut services, but to protect them. “Even at this late stage, we believe there must be other ways to deal with this situation. When a library closes, it never reopens. We must do everything we can to avoid the ‘nuclear option’ of closure.” The council is looking to save £2.5m by shutting down 11 of the city’s 19 libraries due to a 58% cut in funding by central government, which has sparked fury amongst many library-goers and campaigners.

Liverpool councillor Wendy Simon, assistant mayor and cabinet member for libraries, said last month that the city council is still talking to organisations and individuals with ideas for keeping the libraries open. She told the Guardian: “We’re doing what we can to save as many as we can. “Our libraries are precious to us, too, but we only have a specific amount of money, and all of our services are important to us. “It’s really difficult – we have looked at alternatives, and we are hopeful. We have had a number of proposals that we are pleased about for the 11 libraries that have been identified.”

Britain’s best lawn? The Wirral lawn up for award

Wirral couple cut above the rest By CONNOR DUNN

A Wirral couple’s pride and joy has made it in to the final three to become Britain’s Best Lawn. Paul and Chris Davies, both 59, have transformed their garden in Thornton Common Road, Thornton Hough, Wirral, over the past ten years from what was a strawberry farm to a now immaculate garden. Paul said: “I have created different areas of lawns, with both regularly mown and informal meadow areas.” Mrs Davies, said: “There are a tonne of things in this garden, that’s where every single bit of

my money goes, buying flowers to place around here!” Paul says his wife is the developer of the garden, with a “massive amount of knowledge on gardening.” They have raised money for local charities and let them host garden parties on their lawn for free, helping such causes as; North West Cancer Research, Claire House Hospice, St. John’s Hospice, Chester MESH and others. Paul described being in the final of the competition a great honour and added: “It is nice to see all of our hard work paying off. It would be really nice to win.”

Joe Anderson: Mayor of LiverpooL

©JMU Journalism

Is Merseyside next in line for a Mayor? By SAMUEL PEERS Liverpool may soon match Manchester’s plans for a “metro mayor” as new devolution measures shake up politics in the North West. Chancellor George Osborne has reached agreement with leaders of Manchester’s 10 regions to elect a mayor to oversee the spending of millions of pounds on public services. The mayor will take control of transport, housing, planning and policing. In a major devolution move, they will also stand in place of the post of police and crime commissioner for Greater Manchester Police. Now, senior Merseyside Labour figures are to attend a meeting in Huyton on Saturday, to discuss whether or not Liverpool’s mayor could take on more responsibilities in Manchester’s wake. Mayor Anderson has long advocated the shift of powers to local control, he said in an interview with the Guardian in August: “I bow to nobody in my respect for Whitehall, but my colleagues and myself

probably are better judges for our cities’ priorities.” However, whilst Mayor Anderson may seem envious of Manchester’s deal, he is still not convinced it’s enough. He added: “It’s like the government taking a house off you and giving you a shed to live in. but a shed is still better than nothing.” Since becoming mayor in 2012, Anderson has already overseen a number of major projects, this includes the waterfront redevelopment and city-wide bus lane closures amoung many. But if Liverpool Council gets the go-ahead for mayoral control across the region, his territory will grow vastly. However, following Manchester’s model may not be that easy to apply in practice. Whilst Manchester saw full agreement between its borough councils, Joe Anderson has had rocky relations with some of his. In April this year, St Helens Council leader Barrie Grunewald had a public row with the mayor over the city region combined authority project, blaming the issues on “one man and his ego.”

Walton reaches out to youths By MATTHEW JUDGE

The Walton community is coming together to discuss the engagement of young people in North Liverpool and making the area a better place to live and learn. Alsop High School, in partnership with the Walton Youth Project, have scheduled a meeting on Friday November 14 at the Learning Resource Centre in Walton Village between 10am and 11am, with area MP Steve Rotheram set to be in attendance. The event will discuss Alsop and Walton Youth Project’s partnership extending onto Year 2 of the ‘Our Place’ programme, which is an initiative aimed at getting youngsters from aged seven to 19 involved in their community. ‘Our Place’, which is run by Locality in partnership with the Local Government Association and funded by the Department for Communities and Local Government. Joe Mangan, Headteacher at Alsop, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Alsop students and their families. “It is great to see students becoming active citizens and such positive role models for their peers.” Councillor Roz Gladden, Assistant Mayor and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, echoed Mr. Mangan’s thoughts, adding: “I would like to congratulate these young people on their successful application. “This is a great opportunity for young people and community members to work together to make their community a better place to learn and live.” Next month’s meeting is also hoping to kick-start the process of compiling a Development and Operational Plan for the Walton area by the end of March 2015.

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These areas currently experiences high unemployment, poor housing and high crime levels. The council are hoping that any cash that is left over will be used to recover some of the buildings on Bold Street, which are beginning to look worn-out. Liverpool has recently been praised by English Heritage for its work in preserving historic buildings, as ten years ago 12 percent of the listed buildings in the city were at risk, this is now down to less than four percent. Similar schemes have seen the transformation of Seel Street and Campbell Square areas of the Ropewalks, this has propelled business in those areas, the council are hoping that this scheme has the same potential.

Lidl surprises with move into Lewis’s By SAMUEL PEERS

LEWIS’S: Lidl on the move

Travel scheme award

Liverpool’s landmark Lewis’s building is set to house a new Lidl supermarket. The department store, opened in 1856, became famous for one of Britain’s very first Christmas grottoes, as well as its huge range of products. However, the iconic Ranelagh Street building finally closed in 2010, after a long line of different owners. Now, the low-cost supermarket chain Lidl is set to move in to the bottom floor, which once contained the food hall, following talks with building

developer Merepark. Lidl said: “We are very excited about the possibility of being a partner in the regeneration of a building treasured by many.” Although the development looks to bring 30 jobs to the city, there has been some concern about how fitting the supermarket is to the listed landmark, with debate ongoing. Lidl insist that they will respect the building’s historical importance and the impact of development, saying: “The building is both listed and close to the hearts of many who have grown up knowing it well. As

such, we have liaised extensively with the local planning authority, conservation officers and conservation specialists.” They added: “We have also employed NJSR, an architectural practice well versed in the redevelopment of listed historic buildings, to develop the plans for the Lidl unit.” Lidl is now the latest supermarket to occupy a prime city spot after Morrisons got the go-ahead to move into the former Disney store in Clayton square. Tesco also hopes to branch out in the city, with its related property company.

Mum invites scares for charity

By EMILY LEWIS

Merseytravel bagged two major accolades at the National Transport Awards this year, as it was recognised for having innovative transport projects and outstanding contributors. The people who make a real difference to transport across the UK were recognised at the prestigious awards that were held in Westminster Park Plaza in London in early October. As a joint winner for the ‘Most Innovative Transport Project’, Merseytravel were acknowledged for their Young People’s Affordability Project, along with Transport for London – The London Underground Control Centre. Merseytravel’s project is a flat fare, all day ticket for young people aged five to 15, which offers more choice, more freedom and greater savings to those who use the bus services in Merseyside. The £2 ‘My Ticket’ was launched in May and is a bus ticket that is available to buy on a valid bus that participates in operators’ services and allows travel across Merseyside bus network for the potential market of over 180,000 people. It was introduced in response to the growing call for a more affordable, fair and consistent deal for young people in the city region. Councillor Ron Abbey, Merseytravel Lead Member for Bus said: “A young person at one of our customer forums told us he uses three buses to get to and from school, costing over £6 per day because his mum doesn’t have the money at the beginning of the week to buy a weekly ticket. “This project is a key part of Merseytravel’s drive to offer more affordable travel for young people.” Identified for Outstanding Contribution to Transport, Councillor Liam Robinson, Chair of the Merseytravel Committee and General Purposes Sub Committee, won the award. Also, other innovative schemes are set to be introduced in for 2015.

BONNIE: All dressed up for charity By CONNOR DUNN A Merseyside mum has held a scarecrow competition in memory of her daughter and the whole of the community has got involved. Edie Pope lost her daughter Jane to cancer in June 2012 and has created this contest in order to raise money for Woodlands Hospice in Aintree.

She said: “The care the hospice gave Jane was second to none. They allow people to die with the dignity they deserve. Organising this has been something special to do in her memory and it allows us to give something back to the hospice.” The scarecrow festival was held at Church View Farm in Lydiate, and there were 45 scarecrows all made by local

© Connor Dunn groups who put in a £5 donation each to enter. She said: “The competition was an idea to finish off raising funding for a golden leaf on the tree of life at Woodlands Hospice and we’ve achieved that by raising £582.” In the centre of the pond were a Bride and Groom in scarecrow form on a romantic boat trip.

Mrs Pope said: “A lady in the shop has just gone through a bitter divorce and she said there’s nothing I’d like more than to see the dress turned into a scarecrow and you can drown her afterwards if you like!” Edie has other plans, however, and by keeping it clean she will be looking to sell the designer Jessica McClintock dress to raise even more money.

Big Brother star for fashion award By SAMMY GREEN

GAULTER

A contestant from the 2014 series of Big Brother has been nominated for a Juice FM style award for ‘the most stylish Scouser’. Mark Byron made his mark as a fashion icon whilst appearing on the show, and said he was ‘in complete shock’ when he was nominated for the award. He told Liverpool Life: “I couldn’t believe it! I always put

a lot of effort into my all round appearance so to be credited on it was just overwhelming. “It’s a huge deal for me. I can’t actually believe I’m up against two complete Scouse fashion icons! Just to be nominated is amazing.” The other contenders for the ward include Abbey Clancy and Alex Gerrard – two of the city’s most notable WAG’s, who are renowned for their style and glamorous looks. The Crosby lad was evicted on

day 65 of the show, becoming the eleventh housemate to be evicted. He said: “I think I should win because I’m proud of my own personal Scouse style, and I always make a huge effort in my appearance. “Hopefully I’d be able to show the country that there is more Scouse male style than Huge Boss tops and 110’s [trainers].” The Style Awards will be held at the Liverpool Titanic Hotel on Saturday the 8th of November,

where the winners of the various awards, including that for the most stylish Scouser, will be revealed. Before entering the Big Brother house, Mark worked as a Visual Merchandiser. Mark added: “Fashion has always been massively important to me. “To get to showcase Liverpool fashion to international brands was always something I felt very strongly about in a work sense. Liverpool is just fab.”

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Council reveals plans to save day centres

By REBECCA COOKSON Liverpool City Council is set to approve plans which will see most of its day centres remain open, following a major review and consultation. The main aim is to ensure that the city council can continue to support the most vulnerable in the face of the £156 million of Central Government funding cuts over the next three years, whilst at the same time delivering £3 million of savings for in house services per year. The plans were developed following informal consultations with service users, staff and carers since March this year and are designed to preserve the council’s skills and expertise in looking after some of the most vulnerable clients and make better use of some of the council’s buildings. Norris Green Older Persons day service will be relocated to Venmore and Speke Day Centre will close, with service users offered care support at another centre. The report will be considered by the Cabinet on Friday November 7th.

Doc Martens festival return By OLIVIA SWAYNE ATHERTON

Homotopia has secured the iconic British footwear brand Dr. Martens for the second year as event sponsor for 2014. As part of this year’s programme Dr Martens are supporting the iconic photographic exhibition by Catherine Opie entitled ‘The Gang’ which is currently at the Walker Art Gallery until February 2015. Amy Nelson, Dr Martens UK Retail Marketing Manager, said: “Music and subculture is at the heart of Dr Martens and we are excited to continue our involvement with the Homotopia festival for the second year running. “Dr Martens stands for individuality and the right to self-expression and we recognise the important work Homotopia does towards positive change and supporting gay arts and culture across the UK through their festival.’”

Life|Focus|6

Why working shifts may age your brain By EMILY LEWIS

A study has suggested working antisocial hours can prematurely age the brain and dull intellectual ability. Scientists warn that those who do work against the body clock could have their brain aged by more than six years, following a decade of night time shifts. This comes as the study, in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, suggested that there was some recovery after people stopped working antisocial shifts, but it took five years to return to normal. Experts say the findings of the British Medical Journal review, could be important in dementia as many patients have disrupted sleep. Damaging effects on the body can link to breast cancer and the increased risks of strokes and obesity.

Teams at the University of Swansea and the University of Toulouse showed the impacts it has on the mind. In total, 3,000 people in France performed tests of memory, speed of thought and wider cognitive ability. Dr Philip Tucker, part of the research team in Swansea said: “It was quite a substantial decline in brain function, it is likely that when people trying to undertake complex cognitive tasks then they might make more mistakes and slip-ups, maybe one in 100 makes a mistake with a very large consequence, but it’s hard to say how big a difference it would make in day-to-day life.” He added: “There are ways to mitigate the effects in the way you design work schedules and regular medical checkups should include cognitive performance tests to look for danger signs.” Although the brain naturally declines as a person ages,

researchers said working antisocial shifts does accelerate the process. Prof Derk-Jan Dijk, from the Surrey Sleep Centre, cautioned that retired shift workers still had lower sleep quality than people who had never done nights. He said: “Some of these effects may not be so readily or rapidly reversed. “We now accept that shift work may not be good for your physical health, but this shows your brain function is affected, and I think that finding will surprise many people.” People who regularly fly long-haul have been shown to suffer from poorer brain function, thought to be caused by the breakdown of some brain structures, caused by the overproduction of stress hormones. A similar mechanism may be occurring in people working alternating night and day shifts for a prolonged period of time.

dementia award after it was one of three European projects to be shortlisted which was announced on October 23. The app has been co-produced with people living with dementia and their carers. The organisations involved in the project include Innovate Dementia, Mersey Care NHS Trust, Liverpool John Moores University and members of the Mossley Hill Hospital Memory

Group. The app is all about connecting people and enabling families and carers to continue building relationships with people who are living with dementia. It uses a simple format to stimulate memory, allowing people to browse social history objects from the Museum of Liverpool’s collection to prompt reminiscence which

Dementia app a big success

By REBECCA COOKSON An app created to help dementia patients stimulate their memory and continue to build relationships with their families and carers has been downloaded more than 1,400 times since it was launched in June earlier this year. The ‘My House of Memories’ app won a top European

can instigate conversation, special moments and shared memories between parents, sons and daughters and carers and their clients. The content themes of the app are wide-ranging and designed to be intuitive, allowing users to follow a memory path of their choice. The objects featured are brought to life with multimedia and enables app-users to save

objects to their own memory trees, boxes or timelines. Carol Rogers, Executive Director of Education, Communities and Visitors at National Museums Liverpool said: “We are so proud to win this award for our My House of Memories app. “It demonstrates that the work we’re doing to help people living with dementia is having a real positive impact.”

Lives to be saved by care reforms By OLIVIA SWAYNE ATHERTON

Health and care services in Liverpool are set to be transformed after proposals were revealed yesterday which could save hundreds of lives every year. Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson and Dr Nadim Fazlani, Chair of Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group, jointly unveiled a series of proposed reforms to NHS and care services in the city at a Mayoral Health Summit at the city’s Town Hall. The proposed change programme called Healthy Liverpool, is designed to ensure that people consistently receive the best quality care and that services are modelled in the right way to meet changing needs. Dr Fazlani, who has been a practising GP for 25 years in Kensington, Liverpool said: “We believe we should offer the best care to everyone, irrespective of where they live in Liverpool, to a consistently high standard.” Mayor Anderson said: “Liverpool is fortunate in that it is served by genuinely worldleading hospitals, staffed by excellent clinicians. We want to protect and develop those assets so that they can continue their amazing work at the forefront of modern medicine. “But we also want to ensure all parts of the health and care system are operating in the best way for the benefit of the communities they serve.” The launch of the Healthy Liverpool Prospectus for Change will be followed in the New Year with a city-wide engagement campaign, which may lead to some elements of the proposals to be put to formal public consultation in the second half of 2015.

We will remember In Flanders’ fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place: and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders’ fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe; To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high, If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders’ Fields.

As the country prepares for Remembrance Sunday this weekend, KEIRAN ETORIA-KING looks at the history of the poppy

ne hundred years on from the start of the First World War, the poppy continues to be a symbol of remembrance, with the Tower of London commemorating the occasion by filling its moat with a ceramic poppy for each of the more than 800,000 British deaths. The story generally goes that the poppy was the first flower to start growing after the end of the war, but it was actually first romanticised by an American doctor on the front line, who wrote the poem ‘In Flanders’ Fields’ after losing a friend at Ypres. Observing how the French poppies were the only flower to survive the carnage of the Western Front, Colonel John McCrae was inspired to write a poem that has become synonymous with the remembrance commemorations and begins “In

Flanders’ field the poppies blow”. (Left) An American woman called Moina Michael who saw the poem in Punch magazine was so inspired that she bought 25 red poppies and encouraged people to wear them by selling them to the secretaries of the YMCA where she worked. The idea caught on, and in 1921 the first ever Poppy Day took place in Britain, raising £106,000 -between £5 - 30 million in today’s money-. They sold over 9 million poppies. Moina Michael also wrote a response to Colonel McCrae’s poem (right). Today, with British troops in action across the globe and conflict continuing to claim the lives of men and women every day, the poppy remains an enduring symbol of heroism and sacrifice.

We cherish too, the Poppy red That grows on fields where valor led, It seems to signal to the skies That blood of heroes never dies, But lends a lustre to the red Of the flower that blooms above the dead In Flanders’ fields. And now the torch and poppy red Wear in honour of our dead. Fear not that ye have died for naught: We’ve learned the lesson that ye taught In Flanders’ fields.

Poppy © Chameleon/Wikipedia

Life|Arts|7

Chambo spills the Juicy news A

Megan Hill talks to LJMU Journalism graduate Chris Chambers about becoming the voice of breakfast on radio station Juice FM

s the Head of News at Liverpool’s most popular radio station and recently graduated to Head of News at UTV Media, its little wonder that Chris Chambers is this week’s Liverpool Life success story. Success was not something that came easy, huge discipline and lot of hard work landed him the role. In what was to become a whirlwind year; 2004 saw Chris toss his cap and lunge head first into the world of radio journalism. With a daily routine, which involves a gruelling 5am wakeup call, nobody can argue that he isn’t dedicated to his craft. Starting out in school, Chris’s love for radio became apparent from an early age. Volunteering at his local hospital radio station was what planted the seed of pursuing a career in radio. He recalls how taking a year out before starting University was the best thing for him to do. He told Liverpool Life: “I wanted to get into radio but also do an academic course, I just loved being with radio. I thought it was good to tie together that with an academic English based degree, so I chose journalism.” Whilst at university Chris’s passion for the radio world began to germinate. He reminisced on how his weekends were split between driving to Birmingham for the Breakfast show at Kerrang Radio to working with Harlem and Radio City assisting in the production of their sports show. “The next stage of your development is by working in a proper environment. Getting stuck into the practical stuff and getting a mic in your hand to go out and speak to people, that was the buzz.” During a period working freelance for Juice FM after graduation, he was presented with the chance to cover what he considered the highlight of his career to date; Liverpool’s Champions League win in 2005. Chris recalls the monumental

CRITICS’ CHOICE THEATRE

The Full Monty The Full Monty was a hit 17 years ago and now it’s back with something for everyone. This isn’t a show like any other, not just a musical but a story with some music in between. From girls screaming, to the theatre laughing, the show really made an impact in more ways than one.

Class of 2004

FILM

Nightcrawler Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, as Lou Bloom, a driven man desperate for work, muscles into the world of L.A. crime journalism, he blurs the line between observer and participant to become the star of his own story. Aiding him in his effort is Nina, a TVnews veteran.

ARTS

Andy Warhol WORK HARD: Chris interviews world-famous DJ David Guetta night and how the noise of the crowds in the street reverberated throughout the former Juice FM building on Fleet Street. He remembers the night clearly and how, as a lifelong Liverpool fan it was difficult to ask unbiased questions. “It was so busy, everyone was off their head because they were so happy. “As a journalist you have to try and stay impartial with your questions and not get carried away. But really all I wanted to do was have a pint and jump in. “It was really difficult but an incredible night, I hope we will see it again one day.” One of the most poignant yet equally challenging stories the graduate has covered during his career was the tragedy of Rhys Jones in 2007. “A little lad, being shot dead on his way home from football, it doesn’t get any worse than that. It was a 12-week trial and we were there covering it every day.” Sticking to his roots paid

‘You have to get stuck in and get your hands dirty. Be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them’

Photos © Juice FM

Transmitting Andy Warhol is the first exhibition to explore Andy Warhol’s (1928 - 1987) role in establishing new platforms to disseminate art, and his experimentation with new approaches that redefined artistic practice and distribution. The first solo exhibition of Warhol’s work

MUSIC

Taylor Swift

CELEB SPOTTING: Chris, right, poses with singer John Martin dividends when a permanent position at Juice FM came up. He said: “Sticking with one company has paid off. People might think freelancing is good and try and get into the BBC but being loyal to a place has been beneficial for me.” The man with one of the most recognised voices in the city explains how his job is not simply just turning up and reading the news. “It’s a case of speaking to the police and fire brigades, checking to see what my rivals are doing, putting bulletins together, editing audio, getting interviews and local reaction and forward planning.

When asked about advice for the Class of 2015, Chris expressed how the most important thing is to be prepared to take knock backs and not to take them personally. He said: “Stick with it and get as much experience as you can. Get stuck in and get your hands dirty, be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them.” Chris would love to work for radio station, Talksport but loves the creative side of his current job. He added: It’s good to be a proper journalist and be creative as possible but I am happy for now.”

Taylor Swift shot to number one with her ﬁfth studio album; 1985. The LP contains the single; Shake it off. The U.S star is set to go on a World tour in 2015- with dates in London, Manchester and Glasgow. Tickets go on sale on Friday 7th November at 9.30am.

EVENTS

Miranda Sings International YouTube sensation Miranda Sings is coming to The Auditorium at Echo Arena on 11 November. A hilarious night ﬁlled with comedy, hit songs, magic tricks, dramatics readings of hate mail, and never before seen videos!

Life|Seasonal|8

Warming up Time to make sparks fly! Clear skies are promised for this Bonfire Night, so you’ll be able to watch in awe as fireworks light the sky. From how to help your pets feel safe to the best places top watch displays, we tell you what’s hot and what’s not this November 5

EXPLOSIVE: Liverpool ﬁreworks © Steve Wilson

his year the 5th November celebration falls on a Wednesday and we’ve got the lowdown on all the best areas to go. Whether you are viewing fireworks from the comfort of your own home or going out and seeing a display. We’ve got all the information to where you can see displays in and around Liverpool. The two main displays in Liverpool held in Sefton and Newsham Park will be ‘Salute to the Services’ themed. The free event will be held on the 5th November, which will pay a tribute to the armed forces along to synchronised music. Both of these displays begin at 7.30pm. The music will play tribute to the services and some songs include The Dambusters, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory. Knowsley are also holding a free firework display at Simonswood Playing Fields, Simonswood Lane, and Kirkby. If you’re not in the centre of Liverpool then this might be right up your street. This display begins at 7:30pm on Wednesday. If you’re across the water, the Wirral have many displays

which you can enjoy free of charge. The following displays will be held on the 5th November and will begin at 6:30pm: Lingham Park, Upton, Upton Park, Moreton, Woodchurch Leisure Centre, Birkenhead Park, Central Park, Wallasey, Mersey Park, Tranmere, Mayer Park, Bebington. Leasowe Adventure Playground in the Wirral is not only holding a free firework display on Guy Fawkes Night but they will also have a bonfire whilst the celebration goes on. This also starts at 6:30pm.

. . . .

FIREWORK SAFETY Purchased fireworks should be marked BS 7114 or CE (British or European Safety standards) Light all fireworks at arm’s length It’s handy to keep a bucket of water nearby if you’re setting them off in your garden You may use fireworks in categories 1, 2 and 3 however category 4 can only be used by professionals.

Don’t forget your pets

PET PREPARATION: Feeling safe By AMY HOLDSWORTH Many animals suffer from firework phobia and it’s vital that pet owners keep their animals safe and secure on bonfire night. The RSPCA have found that 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks, however this can be treated. Cats: It’s important to not allow your cat to roam around outside as they will become more stressed from the fireworks, to prevent this owners should create a hiding place for your cat in your house. Dogs: Try and create a black out play area for your dog so

they aren’t aware of any flashing lights and add toys so they become distracted from the fireworks. Also if you know any other owners with dogs that aren’t afraid of fireworks then allow them to come round so they can play together so they’re occupied. Small animals: Use extra bedding for your small pet so they can not only hide but also so they feel more comfort and protection from the fireworks. You should also cover any cages, particularly outside. If your pet suffers badly from the fireworks then you should go to the vets as they may prescribe medication for your pet.

The Christmas countdown begins... By HANNAH ANDERSON

ith Hallowe’en behind us and Bonfire Night about to burst into action, Liverpool is already gearing up to celebrate Christmas 2014. Stores have been promoting Christmas necessities since October, selling present ideas, wrapping paper and festive decorations. And now that the Starbucks cups have changed to red, and winter albums are being advertised on TV, it is hard to avoid the early excitement of the season. Everything begins with the Christmas lights switch on is this Friday 7th in the city centre, and will be left on throughout the day of November 11th to remember the fallen soldiers. Continental markets start on November 20th and run until December 19th with stalls dotted along Lord Street and Paradise Street.

The popular Liverpool ONE ice rink is back on November 7th to January 4th, which is suitable for all ages. For those who want to keep warm there will be the Alpine-themed café bar serving hot drinks and refreshments, and also an ice bar suitable for the adults. One for the kids (and the big kids) is the UK’s only real ice slide, with a choice of two 30m fun runs for the young thrill seekers this winter! Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday, 11-9pm (Last skate session at 8pm) Friday to Saturday, 11-10pm (Last skate session at 9pm) Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, 11-7pm (Last skate session at 6pm) The city centre will become a frozen wonderland dotted with magical snowflakes on November 20, to December 28. People can follow the Snowflake trail to spot the different designs and keep the lookout for sculptures, light projections,

street art and magical window displays that any child would love to be in with a chance of winning prizes. To get those last minute present ideas to the big man himself, children will be able to meet Father Christmas at St George’s Hall which hosts Santa’s Magical Grotto each weekend from November 15 to December 7. From December 13 to 23, children can also follow a festive trail meeting colourful characters in order to meet Santa and find out if they’re on the naughty or nice list. ‘Alive after five’ will run on Thursdays leading up to Christmas day with something different happening each week. Children can get in touch with the real story of Christmas on November 27th, as there will be a nativity procession featuring real camels, Mary, Joseph, angels and a choir A real reindeer will be in town on December 4.

DASH IT: Santa-sprinkled streets in Liverpool

©JMU-Journalism

Life|Special|9

to Winter

November’s here and after a warm autumn, all of us are starting to feel the cold. Although the short days, dark nights and chilly weather are all great reasons to stay indoors with a hot chocolate, Liverpool Life has all you need our guide to stepping out and staying warm in style

Avoid the icy winds while watching the ﬁreworks with this cute layered scarf. Team with a black jacket for a monochrome contrast. Primark honeycomb cream scarf £3 © Primark

Parka jackets are suitable for any weather and the faux fur trim on this one is completely on trend. Grab yourself a parka for the perfect winter statement coat. Miss Selfridge khaki parka £69 © Miss Selfridge

Knee length or, if you’re feeling brave enough, over the knee boots are hot property this winter. Practical and pretty, these boots would look great with black skinnies or leggings. Dolcis two tone riding boot £24.99 © Get The Label

There’s no way you’ll be getting wet feet in these stylish wellies. Avoid the mud and rain while rocking these funky patterned boots and you’ll have no problems come Bonﬁre night. ARCTIC ﬂat funky wellies £49.99 © Spyloveby.com

If you want to wear the trend without being over the top, these gloves are ideal for tartan novices. Holding your hot chocolate or tea will never look so good! BHS tartan check gloves £9 © BHS

For those who want to warm up but keep it casual why not try a biker jacket? This faux leather number will keep out the chill and look fab with winter boots. Vero Moda Artist pu jacket in black £49.99 © Get The Label

Continuing with the tartan trend for the boys, a scarf is a great addition to any man’s winter wardrobe. Add as a great accent to a navy or black jumper to break up with some colour. White stuff check scarf £25 © White Stuff

Smarten up your look with a buttoned military jacket. It will both keep you cosy next to the bonﬁre and look great over any Christmas jumper. Burton military style coat £99 © Burton

It’s not quite Christmas yet but it’s never too early to get your Christmas Day jumper. These are our two top picks from good old Tesco that allow you to save some pennies for Christmas drinks. Top: F&F elf jumper £20, Side: F&F Snowﬂake jumper £16 © F&F

We all love a bobble hat and this Jack Jones knit is the ideal Christmas prezzie. Keep your head out of the cold without breaking the bank. Jack Jones patterned knitted beanie £7.99 © Get The Label

Words: SOPHIE LOCKETT

Celebs wrap up to support Alder Hey By OLIVIA SWAYNE ATHERTON

Matalan have teamed up with a host of celebrities to raise money for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in this year’s Christmas campaign. The campaign involves celebrities from all over the world including Britney Spears, Sarah Jessica Parker and Liverpool’s own Abbey Clancy. They are supporting Matalan by modelling the Alphabet scarves that display their initial as a collegiate style appliqué letter.

Jason Hargreaves, Managing Director at Matalan, said: “Family is at the heart of everything we do at Matalan so a partnership with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital was a perfect fit for us. “We’re extremely excited to be working on such a special project together this Christmas that will help to raise funds whilst offering customers a perfect gift for their loved ones.” To increase awareness, singer Pixie Lott has recorded her own version of the 1986 number one

‘Caravan of Love’. Around 20p of every single sold goes to Alder Hey. Talking about the campaign she said: “I am really honoured to be involved with, and supporting, Alder Hey’s Alphabet Scarves campaign. It’s a fantastic initiative and will raise much-needed funds for the children’s hospital.” Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust provides care for over 275,000 children and young people every year. Lee Pinnington, Marketing Director at

Matalan, said: “We made a decision this year to fully get behind the Alder Hey Children’s Charity and, as a result, we will not be taking the cost of promoting the Alphabet Scarves campaign out of the profits we donate, to make sure as much money as possible goes to the hospital.” The money raised will go towards a state-of-theart children’s hospital, education and research centre ‘Alder Hey in the Park’, planned to open in 2015.

Life|Sport|10

Del-Boy takes on the Vikings JOSH KELSALL meets the man who makes sure Widnes rugby players are eating for success on and off the pitch

aking the transition from student life to working life isn’t always the easiest. Early starts and late finishes are stark contrast from the days of £1 vodkas and getting up at 2pm in the afternoon. So whilst most graduates are going into relatively safe office jobs and 9-5s, entering the rough and ready world of Super League rugby will soon separate the men from the boys. “To be in the elite environment, especially rugby, you have to have a bit of a character, a little something about you. The banter between the lads at the club is constant daily but you have to go along with it and just give a little back.” Professional rugby league club Widnes Vikings have appointed LJMU PhD student James Morehen as their new nutritionist as part of their partnership with the University. Life as a nutritionist isn’t exactly well documented. James is in three days a week during pre-season which moves to four days a week when the season gets under way in February, when the Vikings play Wigan Warriors in a

Sky Sports televised clash. “I get in at about 7:30am and blitz up fresh fruit and veg smoothies for the lads, this is produce from a local farm that I pick up every Tuesday morning.” James has wasted no time in making some changes and putting his stamp on the club, which has quickly earned him a nickname. “The lads have already nicknamed me ‘Del Boy’ for the partnerships and links I have managed to set up since my arrival.” He continued: “Since I have been here I have set up local partnerships with a bakery who will supply us with nutritional lunches every Friday and also the local fruit and farm shop who supply us with a box of fruit and vegetables each week.” However, just blitzing up fruit and veg isn’t where it ends. Educating the players on how to eat and drink right is just as important and something that James takes very seriously. “Weekly I present current and relevant nutritional talks to the lads, lasting about 15 minutes on a different aspect of sports nutrition, for example Vitamin D or protein.

EXPERT: LJMU PhD student James Morehen is Widnes Vikings’ new nutritionist “This is to educate the lads on the fundamental importance of sports nutrition, as without a good solid nutritional strategy, they will simply not get the adaptations they are after. A good saying in the sports nutrition world is that you can’t supplement a poor diet!” He explained: “I sit down one to one with players talking

‘

The banter between the lads at the club is constant, daily, but you have to go along with it and just give a little back.

through individual nutritional strategies with them and answer any questions they may have. The boys have really bought into what I am doing which is brilliant.” The 25-year-old seems unfazed by the step into the world of professional rugby league. He has combined his degree studies with time spent at Colchester United Football Club, Saracens Rugby Union Club and St. Helens Rugby League Club, so he is no stranger to the inner workings of club sports and hard graft.

hroughout my studies I have always tried to do as much volunteering and applied work that I can to gain valuable experience and it’s very rewarding to know that my hard work is paying off and being recognised by the university and the club.” He added: “One of the biggest things I learned early on in my degree was that applied experience is fundamental if you want to set yourself apart from anyone else studying sports

’

science. “Thousands of people graduate each year from our discipline but to set yourself apart you have to have something different. I put myself out there and gained experience where ever I could.” The man from Essex is not only hard working, but grateful for an opportunity to be able to test himself at the highest level. He said: “For me, I am not doing anything Einstein but just implementing simple effective nutritional strategies for the players daily that work for them. This helps with the little educational programmes I do with the boys. “Everyone at the club has been very welcoming and I feel as though I have fitted in straight away. I am very fortunate to have been offered this partnership between LJMU, Widnes and Nutrition X. “Widnes were voted club of the year last year and are a team on the rise, and to be part of the journey is something I am looking forward to a lot.”

Moyes ponders Sociedad vacancy By MATTHEW JUDGE Former Everton FC manager David Moyes is edging closer to a return to management after emerging as the frontrunner for the vacant Real Sociedad job. The 51-year-old, who spent 10-and-a-half seasons with the Toffees before replacing Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United boss last summer, has been out of work since being sacked by the Old Trafford club in April after a disastrous 10-month spell in charge. Moyes is currently in Qatar working with BeIN Sports and is understood to be weighing up an offer from Sociedad, who are presently sitting in the relegation zones of La Liga with just six points collected from their opening 10 league games. The Spanish club, who played two games against Moyes’ United side in last season’s UEFA Champions League groupstages, dismissed manager Jagoba Arrasate on Sunday after they slipped to a 1-0 defeat to Malaga the previous day. Moyes first took over the Everton reins back in March 2002 and guided the Blues to the 2009 FA Cup final during his memorable tenure at Goodison Park.

Talks start for Smith rematch By MATTHEW JUDGE

Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that talks are under way to try and get Liverpool fighter Paul Smith a second world title fight against Arthur Abraham next year. Smith, 32, went the distance in an epic clash with WBO supermiddleweight champion Arthur Abraham in Kiel, Germany in September and lost on points, but the one-sided nature of the judges’ scorecards caused widespread controversy. An appeal to get Smith an immediate rematch against Abraham, managed by Team Sauerland, was rejected last month by the WBO, however Hearn hasn’t yet given up hope of landing another match and has admitted talks are ongoing between the two promoters. Smith, who has won 35 of his 39 professional bouts, comes from a family of boxers, with brothers Stephen, 29, Liam, 26, and Callum, 24, all currently competing in the sport.

Life|Sport|11

FA Cup sell out joy for Warrington FC By STEVIE PICKERING

Everton Osman shakes the room

By LAURA SCHUMANN

Leon Osman has spent 14 years at Everton and his dedication to the club was celebrated this weekend with his testimonial dinner. The dinner had a slightly different twist, with the footballer bursting into his own rendition of Will Smiths, “BOOM! Shake the room”, impressing his audience. Among the audience were fellow football footballers from the current squad and former players such as Kevin Kilbane and Nick Chadwick. The 33-year-old held the dinner at the Titanic Hotel in the Rum Warehouse in Liverpool. Osman has already had his testimonial match, with Everton drawing 1-1 with Porto at Goodison Park in August. The proceeds from the event were split between Claire House and the Make a Wish Foundation. Leon Osman has also recently released his autobiography.

Cycling club given NHS fund By STEVIE PICKERING

A local sports club has secured three years of NHS funding to help run a Saturday morning fitness session. Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group’s Healthy Liverpool has agreed to help fund a cycling club at Greenbank Cycling Club on Saturday mornings between 10am and 2pm. The sessions, although available to everyone, are specifically aimed at helping disabled people and their friends and family interact in community events and the session offers three different categories to join in with, cycling, tricycling and hand cycling. Chairman of the club Timmy Toner said in an interview: “The aim of the project is to help as many disabled people as possible to become independent cyclists. The session offers people the chance to ride around Sefton Park together once they have passed their cycling proficiency test.”

Tickets for the much anticipated Warrington Town FA Cup clash against Exeter City sold out in a record three hours yesterday. The 3,500 tickets available were snapped up by loyal fans. “This is historical for Warrington and it’s going to be a bit surreal” lifetime fan David Bolton said in an interview. The demand is so high for seats that the club is expected to release extra allocations later this week. The game is becoming one of the most anticipated matches in Warrington Town’s history with the BBC coinciding their return to live FA Cup coverage with the live broadcast screened across the globe on Friday night. The BBC backing comes at just the right time for both clubs who are struggling financially as the FA offers £67,500 to any club that they broadcast live and a further £18,000 for the winners. Warrington are from the Northern Premier League Division One and this is the first time they are playing in the PREPARATION: Finch Farm where the Warrington players have been training ©WikimediaCommons/TheBigJagielka First Round Proper in its 65 year history. Whereas League Two their opponents. “It’s very hard one we had on our radar.” Chairman Bill Kenwright have we owe a real debt of gratitude Warrington manager Shaun allowed the Yellows to train at to Bill, Roberto Martinez and club Exeter City’s, retired player to make any comment other than Paul Tisdale, has admitted that we know nothing about them, of Reid has also called in a favour Finch Farm before the big game everyone at Everton Football at his brother’s former club just including full access to all the Club.” his scout Garry Haylock will be course we don’t,” The match will be aired on BBC Tisdale said in an interview. in time for the clash with Exeter facilities. working hard before the game to try and find out as much “It’s a new ground for us and one City. Shaun Reid said in an interview Two on Friday 7th November Everton Legend Paul Reid and “It’s fantastic for the players and with a 7:55pm kick off. information as possible about to tick off, that’s for sure, but not

Rodgers is determined Reds will defy critics By LAURA SCHUMANN AND STEVIE PICKERING Liverpool face a challenging game tonight against Real Madrid after their 3-0 defeat last month. The five-time Champions League winners were defeated by the current holders. The Reds daunting visit to the Bernabeu comes off the back of a 1-0 defeat against Newcastle on Saturday, has left Brendan Rodgers even more determined to prove critics wrong. Rodgers said: “We are certainly not coming here as a team expected to lose and then look at other games as games to qualify. “We see it as an opportunity. It is a wonderful arena – one of the most iconic football grounds in the world – and, when you come up against the best opponents, that is the challenge and makes you perform to your best.”

All eyes are on Ronaldo tonight as he is one goal away from Raul’s all-time Champion League record of 71 goals. However Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti insists Cristiano is fully focused on the squad, and not just making history. Ancelotti said: “Cristiano is working hard for himself but I don’t think he’s thinking about the record, he has time – it’s not his last game. He is focused on the team.” If Real Madrid continue their 11-game winning streak, they are guaranteed at least second place in group E. Despite being desperate to win tonight’s Champions League game, Brendan Rodgers has admitted that the approaching Premier League game against Chelsea is more important. He admitted in a pre-match conference last night that he is considering resting Gerrard in

tonight’s clash, ahead of hosting current top spot holders Chelsea on Saturday. Daniel Sturridge has been deemed “highly unlikely” to participate in tonight’s clash against Real Madrid, despite the striker travelling to Spain with his team mates. “I’ve brought all the players out, It’s a sign we’re very much together,” explained Rodgers. It would seem that the Liverpool player is very much still sidelined with an ankle injury picked up during England duty and then a calf problem sustained during training. With Rodgers summer signings Balotelli and Lallana failing to live up to high expectations and the revelation that Liverpool Captain Steven Gerrard may miss out on tonight’s starting XI, Rodgers is in need of all the help he can get in Liverpool’s upcoming games.

Rooney and Sheeran duet

By STEVIE PICKERING

Punters at a local Manchester pub were in for a treat last week as Wayne Rooney was spotted in the local boozer. The former Everton striker moved on to the pub after being spotted at the Ed Sheeran concert with his team mate Robin Van Persie. However it wasn’t long before Twitter exploded with news that not only was Ed Sheeran in the same pub as Rooney, but the duo had treated the audience to an impromptu performance of Sheeran’s hit Lego house. The Manchester United captain later tweeted: “Brilliant time at @edsheeran concert last night. Thanks for a great night mate.”

International success for Ricky Walden session.” The world number 11 took frames 15, 16 and 17 after a closely fought Ricky Walden won the International first session to claim the £125,000 top Championship in Chengdu to claim prize. his third ranking title after defeating “It was so important for me to get my Mark Allen 10-7 in the final last night. hands on the trophy. The money is a After beating the world number bonus. My wife will find a good place 8, Walden told World Snooker: “I for it.” couldn’t be happier. The crushed Allen said: “I didn’t “It was a tough first session today, come here to finish second. then I got better in the second I’ll probably look back in a few

By LAURA SCHUMANN

months’ time and think I’ve had a great start to the season. But I’ve lost three out of four finals and that’s not good enough.” Allen was also beaten earlier this year in the minor-ranking Riga Open final by Mark Selby. “I need to go back to the practice table and keep working. I’m doing the right things as I have got to four finals. I just need to turn them into victories.”

Liverpool

LifeSPORT

4th November 2014

Inside Sport

FAST AND FURIOUS VICTORY: LJMU Fury competing at Bangor

By KIERAN ETORIA-KING

LJMU Fury overcame a tough away fixture at Bangor to win their first game of the season. On a sodden and slippery grass pitch, both sides struggled to get their offences into gear in a cagey first half where the ball rarely crossed either team’s 20-yard-line. Running back Laurent Tshimanga was unable to execute his typical sharp cuts and spin moves in the mud. Usually a slippery dodger and the fastest player on the pitch,

he was frustrated as he found himself unable to gain traction, slipping and falling over when he tried to change direction. He and his more direct fellow runner Cameron Omar (#20) found more success moving the ball in straight lines, charging through the middle and gaining lots of crucial yards. As the afternoon wore on, Omar, QB Liam Holebrook and slot receiver Alex Eager became Fury’s most lucrative options, and it was through the last two that the breakthrough finally came in the third quarter.

Only a missed catch by WR Kieran Etoria-King punctuated a drive that saw Holebrook pass to Eager three times to reach the one-yard-line, before diving over for the touchdown himself. But with the conversion blocked, LJMU went into the fourth quarter in a precarious position. The defence gave the team plenty of reason to be confident, though. Standing firm all day, when the fourth quarter rolled around they revelled in dishing out big hit after big hit to pin the Muddogs in their own half and

6ft 4 line-backer Jack Escritt brought one of the loudest cheers of the day from his sideline when he read a short pass and got a clear 10-yard run up to flatten the Bangor receiver. Alex Eager eventually managedto give the team some breathing room when he recovered a bad snap and, instead of punting as he was supposed to, wriggled through seven players and sprinted to the line. Bangor got out of their half thanks to a trick play from a punt, before successfully running the ball around the outside to travel

almost all the way up the pitch in two plays and then forcing their way into the end zone to draw back within touching distance. But that was as close as they came to levelling the game. Fury’s defence refused to give up another inch. It was not a perfect performance, but the fast offence, well-drilled defence and raft of promising rookies has given the Fury plenty to be excited about this season. Their next game will be at home to UCLAN at JMO Sports Park in Skelmersdale, on Sunday Nov 9.

Liverpool vs. Real Madrid P11

Vikings role for ‘Del-boy’ P10

Statue unveiled to honour Tranmere legend By JOSH HANDSCOMB

the ground. His achievements at the football club, certainly between 1987-96 when the fans, the club and A statue of Tranmere Rovers legend Johnny King was unveiled at the players were going to Wembley Prenton Park in tribute to the club’s every year for six or seven years, most successful manager of all time. were absolutely fantastic.” The statue was paid for by major Hundreds of fans attended the fundraising efforts by the club’s unveiling and among the cheering fans and was made by Liverpool supporters was former player and artist, Tom Murphy, who is also manager, Ray Mathias, who made responsible for the Bill Shankly and 567 appearances for the WirralDixie Dean sculptures. based club and worked alongside King in various roles throughout his Labour Councillor for Prenton, Paul Doughty, who is a lifelong career. Tranmere fan who helped design the Mathias told Liverpool Life: “I think it’s a very special occasion to statue told Liverpool Life: “I think it’s amazing. I think it is fantastic the club to have a person like John that the fans have come together and King and to have a statue outside

paid for it and it looks fantastic. “To the fans it means that we still relive the glory days when ‘Kingy’ was our manager and although things aren’t going well at the moment, we have seen success and we know it can happen again.” Johnny King attended the event with his family, wearing a Rovers scarf and the signature jacket displaying the club’s crest that he wore in his time as manager. Tranmere Fan, Rob Collins, 24 of Ellesmere Port, told Liverpool Life: “I think it means everything to the fans. The emotion here today was really quite something. it means absolutely everything.”

Warrington training at Finch Farm P11