Liverpool Life 3:10 December 2 2014 by Steve Harrison

2-December-2014

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE... NEWS

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Leveson donates law collection

LIFEextra

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Four-page Christmas special inside.

SPORT

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Liverpool powerlifting champion

FURY OVER GUIDE DOG TAXI BAN By SARAH HANCOCKS

A partially-sighted Liverpool woman has been left distraught after a Merseyside taxi company refused to allow her and her guide dog into one of its cabs. Taxi firm Delta is one of the largest in Merseyside and has been criticised by 53–year-old Linda Cave from Walton, who was refused entry to the cab with her guide dog last Friday. She told Liverpool Life: “Friday morning I was going up to the guide dogs and I ordered a taxi from Delta. The majority of the drivers are pretty good but the driver turned around just as he got to the top of the street and he shouted through the window ‘No dogs, I don’t take dogs’. I was upset but I didn’t let him see it.” In April 2001, the Disability Discriminating Act was passed which prevents taxi and minicab drivers from refusing carriage of a guide dog. This was implemented by companies all over the country including Merseyside. A neighbour of Mrs Cave’s who witnessed the ordeal was said to have been ‘disgusted’ by it. Mrs Cave added: “This is the first time this has happened to me. I think this needs to be addressed across the whole country.

“People have got to understand that these dogs are working dogs, they’re not pets, and they are essential towards leading a normal life and for getting out and about. But why discriminate a guide dog? “They get lots of drunk people in their taxis being sick in it on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday night but why should they get away with being discriminative against guide dogs? I’m really angry over it.” This incident occurred just months after another visually-impaired man - Edward Green - from Warrington, was refused a ride because of his guide dog, and was sworn at by the taxi driver. Mrs Cave has since been in touch with Engagements Officer Penny Williams at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, who has reported the incident to Sefton Council. Penny Williams said: “This is an alltoo common occurrence unfortunately and it is actually against the Equality Act for people to refuse access to a guide dog. We do seem to have a lot of incidents recently across Merseyside and Cheshire. Access issues are still a problem for guide dog owners and we want people to be aware of their duties”. Delta Taxis were unavailable for comment as Liverpool Life went to UPSET: Linda and her guide dog Ziggy press.

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Clegg’s new bid to revive landmarks

By KATIE DODSON Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg is planning to get some of Liverpool’s iconic buildings up and running ready for use once again. The Liberal Democrat leader is working with the Northern Futures team and has come up with a list of six buildings and locations in the city they wish to target. The idea forms part of Clegg’s ‘Northern Futures’ project which is looking for innovative ways to close the north-south divide. In Liverpool the aim is to make the buildings available to startup firms in the city with low rent costs. Nick Clegg said: “We’ve got to be realistic that the best ideas aren’t going to come from Whitehall. Nobody knows more about what local economies need than the people who actually live and work day in and day out in the communities themselves.” The

buildings include the ABC Cinema on Lime Street, the Lyceum Post Office on Bold Street, The Oratory in the ground of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, the Seaman’s Orphanage in Newsham Park, Toxteth Reservoir and the back streets around the Rope Walks. Northern Futures was announced by Clegg in July this year in a bid to get the public involved with the North’s economy and asking them to aid with a radical new growth strategy for the reason. For other buildings such as Martins Bank on Water Street, the state is forced to intervene to kick-start development. Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson’s Mayoral Development Fund has had to put money into a project to turn that building into a five star hotel. Tens of historic buildings in Liverpool are left empty and unused as new developments pop up around the city.

NEW LIFE: Clegg bids to revive the Lyceum Post Ofﬁce

Beth hits high notes for Christmas ad By ANGHARAD MILLINGTON A former LJMU graduate is the new vioce of Watroises Christmas advert. Beth Pennell, 23, sings as a young girl is pictured handing over a gingerbread man at the end of the advert, which has become an internet sensation since it aired. Beth said: “This whole thing happened very suddenly, and I’ve not really processed a lot of it - especially not having seen it on TV myself yet. “My mum had everyone around on the Sunday night to catch the first airing but since it was aired on ITV HD and not the terrestrial channel, we managed to miss three showings across three different channels in all the confusion! So I still haven’t actually seen the advert on

Life

HEART-WARMING SCENES: Waitrose Christmas advert TV, only through Waitrose’s YouTube page. “I’ve got people who know me using it as a talking point ‘Oh I saw your advert last night!’ which always makes me smile,” she added.

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Beth, who achieved a first-class honours law degree in 2012, only submitted her application for the advert at the last minute. She said: “I saw the advert for the opportunity on the closing date for entries, so I had only a

few hours to learn the song, have a look at the various harmony parts, and then submit it. “I fancied a challenge so I decided to record myself singing the various harmony parts and layered my voice upon itself for a track on my SoundCloud page. “I didn’t think much of my submission at the time, it was for a good cause and I thought it’d be cool to say I was part of it,” she added. But suddenly the superstore got in touch with the Runcorn-born singer as two days later she was asked to be a solo singer on the advert. In no time at all Beth was contacted by the Daily Mail who sent a photographer around to her workplace the same day. She said: “The whole thing moved very quickly, and at the

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By GEORGIA DUNNING ‘Baltic Creative’ space on Jamaica Street - which houses 65 unique and creative businesses - contributes to Liverpool’s economy by £1.4m each year. The space which is a combination of quirky offices in warehouse spaces, is home to creative and digital businesses including; an App development company; a ceramic design studio; an independent record label and Liverpool’s vibrant and popular Sound City office among many others. Last week an Economic Review reported that tenants of the ‘Baltic Creative’ have achieved a turnover growth of 7% which is above the national average. In addition to this it revealed that 24% of the businesses in the creative space were from outside the city. Managing Director of the Baltic Creative and the Chair of

the Baltic Triangle Stakeholder Group, Mark Lawler, told Liverpool Life: “Baltic creative came about as a result of an emerging interest in the area. What we are trying to do is protect it and the creative industry long term.” The expected growth in the sector over the next five years is 10% and Mark said they’re looking to expand and take on more spaces. He said: “Baltic Creative is fully let and has been for 12-18 months now. We are looking to see if we can add to our footprint and if we can, we will.” Major investment has gone into the Baltic Triangle area of the city with new apartment blocks being built at both ends of Jamaica Street. Numerous bars and eateries have opened over the past year and investors are becoming increasingly interested in this area of the city.

time I didn’t know what my voice was being used for exactly within the ad - just that I was being used as a ‘solo piece.” It was Beth’s Grandma, though, who saw the advert first and proceeded to contact Beth saying that she’d received a sneak preview as she has a Waitrose card. Beth, who admits to singing for a hobby, said: “Clearly, my Nana is much more in ‘the loop’ than I was, but I was grateful for a listen to the advert before it aired and upon listening to the ad, “I realised I was the voice closing the advert. This made me feel a little guilty about how the papers had represented me - not that I wasn’t grateful, honestly I’ve been over the moon about the whole thing.”

Fun at festive Frost Fair

By LYDIA MORRIS Liverpool’s first ever ‘Fabulous Frost Fair’ is coming to the city’s commercial district next week for some Christmas magic this winter. The fair will take place on the ground floor of English Cities Fund’s, St Paul’s Square, next Wednesday and Thursday giving local businesses and visitors the opportunity to embrace the festive season and bag some special Christmas gifts. The Fabulous Frost Fair is part of the BID Company’s ‘Thursdays Alive after Five’ Christmas programme, featuring the popular and free family event The Snowflake Trail. The fair which is also funded by the Liverpool BID Company will attract visitors from surrounding office developments on the square, families taking part in the snowflake trail and occupiers from St Paul’s Square itself. Bill Addy, Chief Executive of Liverpool BID Company, said: “I’m delighted St Paul’s Square is hosting Liverpool’s first Fabulous Frost Fair. It promises to be a fantastic addition to the city’s Christmas calendar. “It will also give all who work in and around the Commercial District a chance to experience something totally unique and maybe make that special purchase or two.” Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Erica Kemp will also be conducting some Christmas carols at the event on Wednesday December 10 in St Nicholas Church. Lord Mayor Kemp told Liverpool Life: “I’m really looking forward to it. You only get to be Lord Mayor for one year so I’m cramming in as many Christmas activities as I can.” She will also be singing her charity Christmas single ‘Liverpool Heart’ at the carol service. “I know I won’t be fed up with Christmas carols when I get to the 25th December and I’m looking forward to every event.”  Festive special starts P7

Strictly Sunetra gets the boot

By SOPHIE LOCKETT

CREATIVE: Scenes from the development site. Flickr ©SomeDriftWood

When asked what Baltic Creative brings to the space, he said: “We have been a main contributor to the regeneration of the Baltic triangle. “The venues that we have opened in the area provide a new feel and different vibe, the arts and events also play a big part…It’s all contributed to the regeneration.” The company is currently celebrating its 5th birthday by launching the very successful McKeown Rice Exhibition which is dedicated to the memories of Claire McKeown and Paul Rice, the founders of Baltic Creative.

Scouser Sunetra Sarker was kicked out of Strictly Come Dancing this weekend following a tough dance-off with former TOWIE star Mark Wright. The latest casualty of the competition, Sunetra and dance partner Brendan Cole performed a Vegas-themed rumba for the judges but were unanimously voted out. Sarker said: “It’s been such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be able to do this. I’d like to thank Brendan for being just so committed and understanding, and such a natural dancer. Thank you so much for everything. “I also want to say a thank you to every single one of the contestants and all the pro dancers for holding my hand so very tightly, love you all.” Cole praised his partner and said that it was no mean feat to reach this stage in the competition. He added: “Thanks to everyone that works on the show. It’s the best show on television!”

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Everton in line for regeneration jobs boom, says study

An independent study has been released by Liverpool City Council outlining the potential benefits of a regenerated Walton Hall Park, which would include a new stadium for Everton FC. The outline feasibility report, conducted by Volterra Partners, has found that the scheme has the potential to develop regeneration opportunities in North Liverpool. The report found that the regeneration scheme could create up to 1,250 permanent jobs, 1,000 new homes and 30,000 square metres of leisure, retail and restaurant space. It is estimated that a 50,000-seater stadium and associated development would take 40 – 50 percent of the 130 acre park, but that the remaining green space would be upgraded, offering better quality facilities and links with neighbouring housing.

The regeneration scheme could also accommodate university facilities linked to sports, a school and a larger primary health practice. Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, said: “This report, which is wholly independent, is in no way a plan or an agreement, but is an investigation only into the potential of a project of this scale. The figures used within it are looking at the maximum possibilities. We are listening to residents and we will continue to do so throughout the whole process. We have a designated team who will answer any questions and we will continue to keep you involved every step of the way.” The council and the club are working with public, private and voluntary sector partners, including Liverpool Mutual Homes and Everton in the Community, to understand community plans to deliver a sustainable neighbourhood for North Liverpool.

LGBT (lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender) community are actually more empowered & feel safer approaching the police.” Police in Manchester & Merseyside accept that the increase in figures may be down to more people reporting homophobic attacks. They say victims can be confident they will be listened to in the fight against homophobia. Richard Lane, spokesperson for Stonewall, a lesbian, gay and bisexual rights charity, believes that education is the key to erasing homophobic attitudes in the UK.

Speaking to Liverpool Life, Richard Lane said: “These attacks that are happening in Britain are an outrage! There are still gay men, lesbians and bisexuals who are living in fear of being attacked.” He added: “Stonewall conducted a detailed YouGov Poll which highlighted three quarters of gay people who had been a victim of a homophobic crime do not report it to anyone. “So these figures are still going to be a massive underestimate of what it going on.” Merseyside police have a spe-

cialised team called ‘SIGMA’ which is dedicated to addressing and putting a stop to hate crime in Liverpool, something that Liam Mason believes is having a positive effect on the community: “Police particularly in Merseyside have done a lot of work over the past five to six years. It says a lot about the attitudes of the police and Merseyside as a whole that they are actually doing something positive.” It has also been revealed that the number of hate crime reports in Merseyside have increased by 35% in the last 12 months.

By HOLLIE BRADBURY

Homophobic hate crime numbers rise

QUACKING GOOD: Walton Hall Park

By GEORGIA DUNNING

The number of homophobic attacks has increased by 21% in Liverpool over the past year. Despite same sex marriage being legalised over the summer and Liverpool’s Unitarian Church holding one of the first civil partnership ceremonies, the city has seen an increase in violent homophobic crime. Greater Manchester & Merseyside police say they have dealt with over 350 attacks on mem-

bers of the gay community in the past year. Merseyside accounted for 65 of these, an increase of 21% since the previous 12 months. Liam Mason, a transgender worker at the Young Persons Advisory Service (YPAS) believes that there has not been an increase in attacks, just more people reporting them. Speaking to Liverpool Life, he said: “I would say Liverpool is actually doing a lot to challenge homophobia. “I think the figures are going up because members of the

Leveson legacy for LJMU law By DAN GOULDING

Chancellor of Liverpool John Moores University, Sir Brian Leveson, has donated his own collection of law reports and books to the university’s School of Law. Lord Justice Leveson, who became Chancellor in May 2013, was keen to ensure his relationship with the university was not just one sided and so donated his ‘All England Law’ books. Sir Brian Leveson said: “I felt it was a wonderful opportunity to provide LJMU with the law reports that have travelled with me through my professional life, from my days as a student, through to my days as a junior barrister as the Queen’s council and as a judge. “I have no doubt that the fantastic reputation LJMU has as a mooting university gave the prospect of students’ value and appreciate the use of this series of reports.” The giving of the books was commemorated by the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Nigel P. Weatherill. Staff and students joined together for the occasion which was marked with a plaque. Leveson then took time to speak to the students. In a speech, the Vice Chancellor praised the author of the

Leveson report for his engagement and dedication since being appointed the figurehead of the university saying: “Sir Brian is an exemplar in that respect.” The Chancellor also said a few words and stated how much the books mean to him. He said: “My life is in those books, enjoy them, use them and I wish all of those who are reading law to get as much pleasure from the law as I have.” The reports will be situated in the moot room of the Redmonds building, Brownlow Hill, and will be accessible to students who require them for academic needs which will improve the resources both undergraduates and post-graduates have to hand. Legal Practice course student, Jordan Buckle, said: “It’s great the fact we can use the same books and impart the same knowledge he (Leveson) has been able to gather. I think that it is a great thing for any law student.” Dave Selfe, Director of the School of Law, said: ““This donation comprises the most comprehensive set of All England Law Reports. By situating them in our impressive Moot Room they will be of great benefit to all students who undertake mooting modules and those who compete regularly with such success in regional and national external Mooting competitions.”

Left: Sir Brian Leveson © JMU Journalism Below: Occasion marked with a plaque © Dan Goulding

NEWS IN BRIEF

Second most costly force By KATIE DODSON

Merseyside has the second most expensive police force in the country after the capital city of London. According to Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) report it costs 64p a day for every person looked after by the force in order to keep Merseyside Police running. This works out at an average of £232.79 per person in the 2014/15 financial year and makes it the second most expensive force in England and Wales. London’s Metropolitan Police was the most expensive force, costing each individual under its protection 88p a day. Michael Cunningham, Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary for Merseyside Police, said: “I have been impressed by the force’s understanding of the issues facing it while minimizing, as far as possible, the impact on frontline policing.” However, the new report shows Merseyside also compares badly in the figures of the amount of recorded crimes and incidents of anti-social behavior, with over 94,000 people reporting crimes (excluding fraud) over the period of a year to June 2014. This equates to 67.9 people in every 1000 in Merseyside, compared to an average of 60.7 per 1000 in England and Wales. Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy said: “The Chief Constable and I recognise that Merseyside Police spends more per person than our most similar sized forces. “Merseyside Police receives 82% of its funding from central government. This reflects the region’s population, deprivation levels and policing needs. “Since 2010, we have lost 1,200 police officers, PCSOs and staff.”

Award for Edge Hill

By SAMANTHA GAULTER-GREEN

“My life is in those books” - Sir Brian

Edge Hill University has been named as University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards. The Ormskirk university was chosen from a shortlist of six educational institutes to win the title at the 10th annual award ceremony. The award comes shortly after Edge Hill gained the highest rating in the North West for student satisfaction in the 2014 Student Survey. Vice-Chancellor Dr John Carter said: “I’m delighted and extremely proud that Edge Hill has won University of the Year. The university is stronger than ever before and I’m honoured to have been involved in its constant growth and improvement.”

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Church discovers wartime capsule

By SOPHIE LOCKETT

The opening of a trap door in a Liverpool church has led to the discovery of a time capsule. A preserved toy room with books from the 30s and 40s was revealed at Our Lady and St Nicholas Parish Church inside a mystery trap door in the ceiling. Rev Dr Crispin Pailing, Rector of Liverpool, said: “When you see a hole in the ceiling I think you’ve got to go through it and find out what’s on the other side and that’s what I wanted to do here. I’d heard a little bit about there being a time capsule up here but hardly anyone’s been up here in 70 years.” After it was damaged in the war, new parts of the church were rebuilt and joined to the 19th century tower. Here, it is believed the room was used as a play area before it was sealed off by the new build. One of the prayer books found dated as far back as the FirstWorld War.

‘Wizard’ donates to hospital

By SAMANTHA GAULTER-GREEN

A Kirby author has donated copies of two of his books to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital so that children on every wards can be entertained. Richard Smith has donated copies of ‘The Tuffy Stories’ and ‘The Gobbledygook’. The 61-year-old is also a world record breaking magician after he completed the longest magic show ever in 2004, making a name for himself in the Guinness World Record books. He said: “I thought it would be ideal to donate the books because I know how they enjoy them.”

Helping vulnerable with winter hand-outs By LYDIA MORRIS & MELISSA MCFARLANE

As the cold winter season approaches hundreds of people from across Merseyside will struggle to survive the winter months, with expensive heating bills causing many to suffer freezing conditions alone and the rise of food prices forcing many families to turn to food banks to eat. Members from more than 16 organisations were at Local Solutions in Kensington to take part in packing laundry bags with winter essentials for Liverpool’s most vulnerable people. This is the second year of the event which sees a partnership between Liverpool Council and local businesses and community groups who join forces to help those in need. Councillor Gerrard Woodhouse, who was elected Mayoral Leader for Older people four years ago, turned out to help with the packing of the parcels. He added: “Working with our partners, older people, vulnerable people and volunteer sector seeing what support we can give to these poverty stricken people. If these packs can help save and keep our people warm this winter I know I’ve done a good job.”

This year the aim was 750 packages in just over two hours. There were 39 items in each package, ranging from blankets to travel mugs to cup of soups with over 40,000 items being distributed across the city as a whole. Donna Kelly, Director of Housing at Liverpool Housing Trust for nine years said: “The demand on our service has grown due to the impact of Welfare reform, the bedroom tax and the recession, as landlords we are picking up more vulnerabilities than we would have done a number of years ago.” Last year nine organisations took part in putting together 500 packages to be distributed across the city. However this year there has been an increased need for the winter assistant package service. Rachel Moran, from Nugent Care, said: “Cuts in benefits are affecting people on low incomes and in particular people with families. At Nugent care we also deal with a lot of immigrants and asylum seekers who have got no resource to public funding. “Today we will be given 26 packs for our 26 flats, all our tenants are homeless or were before coming to us.” Councillor Frank Hont – Cabi-

net member for social inclusion, fairness and equalities said: “Perhaps the most disturbing thing is the amount of families who are having to turn to food banks, anyone who imagines it is simply people on benefits is sadly mistaken, there is now an increasing amount of families – who have at least one family member working who have had to turn to food banks.” In the North West alone from April 2013 – March 2014 138,644 people in crisis have been provided with a three day’s supply of emergency food. The number of Food banks across Liverpool continues to grow along as the need for them increases and the support from outside organisations is vital. As more support and awareness grows the Council hope to help every one in need this Christmas.

VOLUNTEERS: ©Melissa McFarlane VOLUNTEERS: Former Lord Mayor Gary Millar, right, helping out ©Melissa McFarlane

Rise in demand for support from food bank By GEORGIA DUNNING Southport, thought to be one of Liverpool’s most affluent areas, has revealed a staggering number of families are relying on food bank services for their next meal. Southport food bank has served over 45,000 meals since first opening its doors in spring 2013. The food bank located in the

Lakeside Christian Centre on the North Promenade, was expected to serve no more than 9,000 meals in its first year. However a review later on in the year revealed they had actually served just under 25,000 meals. Figures for the second year have revealed that 20,000 meals have been served in six months with this number set to increase as Christmas draws closer and families are expected to strug-

gle even more. There are currently 16 food banks in Liverpool with organisers willing to open more if the demand for them continues to rise. A spokesperson for Southport’s foodbank told Liverpool Life the staff where staggered by the results. He said: “There is an awful lot of need out there, people are going through some very hard times at the moment.

By DAN GOULDING

“They have now laid regulations on firefighter pensions hoping we would retreat but that has had the opposite effect. EDM 454 has now been lodged to ‘pray’ against the regulations, which is now supported by Ed Miliband, the Shadow Chancellor, the Chief Whip and 239 Labour MPs.” The ‘EDM 454’ is an early day motion for public service pension and petitions for changes to be made. According to the Fire Brigade Union, safety officers already pay £400 a month into their pension, which is the highest rate in all public sectors. Chairman of Merseyside’s Fire and Rescue Service Authority, Councillor Dave Hanratty, empathised with the employees, “It’s disappointing that central government hasn’t resolved the dispute with the FBU.” “When Penny Mordaunt became Fire Minister, she said she would listen to the fire-fighters, all she has done is put forward an old proposal- there’s nothing new.” Mr Skarratts emphasised ringing 999 is still the best solution.

“The levels of demand are increasing at the moment and our projected figures are going up.” Southport’s foodbank have just finished a campaign in conjunction with Tesco and Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson. This saw shoppers donate items of food and none perishable items to the food banks, with Tesco matching the donations by 30%. Mayor Anderson also donated £25,000 to kick-start the fund and raise awareness to people.

TESCO AID: © Trussell Trust Twitter

Fireﬁghter strike continues Firefighters in Merseyside are yet to strike again over pension and retirement age rows, with a 24 hour national strike set to occur on December 9th with 40,000 employees ready to walk out. They have failed to agree terms with the government, making this the 48th industrial action since 2013 Following the four-day strike that occurred over the bonfire night period, the fire brigade union has spent the last few weeks trying to negotiate new terms. According to Regional Secretary for the Northwest of the Fire Brigade Union, Les Skarratts, government Fire Minister, Penny Mordaunt MP said a new proposal would be put forward but at the last minute retracted the deal. Les Skarratts, told Liverpool Life due to the government ignoring our demands and evidence that their proposal for firefighter pensions is unfair, unsustainable and simply unfair.”

BRIGADE: Pensions row © Carl Spencer

Life|News|5

£800m roads boost for city By SOPHIE LOCKETT

Liverpool has secured an £800m government investment to help renovate the city’s roads. As part of the ‘Local Growth Deal’, roads linking Liverpool’s ports to the motorway will be improved with particular attention to the A5036 Princess Way. The Government has described the boost as ‘the biggest, boldest and most far-reaching roads programme for decades’. Further developments will be made in Runcorn where a new junction will be built off the M56, providing a new link to the Mersey Gateway Bridge. The M53 in Wirral will also be upgraded to a ‘smart motorway’ in the hopes of reducing and managing congestion. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg announced the developments yesterday and they will also be included in the Autumn Statement by Chancellor George Osborne tomorrow. The region will benefit from nine new schemes worth around £800m, creating an estimated 600 construction jobs. Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “Roads are key to our nation’s prosperity.” Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne added: “Our long term-economic plan means today we can invest an £800m into the North West’s infrastructure to improve, repair and expand our roads.”

Time to click and collect By LYDIA MORRIS

Liverpool One is expecting to welcome over seven million visitors this winter after its efforts to encourage those avoiding the Christmas chaos on their computers to have the best shopping experience yet. After online shopping has become increasingly popular, Liverpool One have said they need to embrace the opportunities it brings rather than view it as a direct competitor. Janine Ross, Head of Communications for Liverpool One told Liverpool Life that half of relevant stores in the shopping centre now offer a click and collect facility and that these transactions are ultimately fulfilled by a visit to our stores in return. She said: “As shopping becomes more of a leisure activity, people want a full ‘day out’ experience.”

Bay TV launch

Bay TV Liverpool is set to launch its first ever broadcast on Thursday, with the channel being available region-wide on Freeview. The independent channel will bring a mixture of entertainment and news to its audience and is urging viewers to retune their television on Thursday- with the channel going live from 7am till midnight. The broadcaster stated on its website: “Bay TV Liverpool is part of the TV revolution - the new generation of local TV stations that are being launched right across the country.”

Freedom honour for war widows By LYDIA MORRIS and KATIE DODSON

The Merseyside Branch of the War Widows Association was granted the ‘Freedom of the City’ at a ceremony yesterday at the Liverpool Town Hall. The highest honour the city can bestow was given to the War Widows Association by the Mayor of Liverpool, Erica Kemp in recognition of their determination, dedication and hard work. The organisation provides support and friendship for widows, widowers or recognised partners of those killed at war. Mrs Kathleen Woodside MBE, Founder Member and Regional Organiser said: “It is with great pride we accept this prestigious award. It is a fitting tribute to the determined efforts of our dedicated members and the memories of our loved ones.” One of Lord Mayor Kemp’s first engagements as the mayor was meeting the War Widows and she described it as an incredibly nervous time. She told Liverpool Life:

“Within minutes of meeting the widows I felt relaxed and I think they’re a fabulous group of ladies. We didn’t even have a formal meeting to decide if they should be given the award, it just went through. “I feel honoured to be giving this award and very emotional. We owe so much to the courageous men and women who serve the country and particularly to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. “We have a duty to support those they leave behind.” The association initiated in Liverpool in 1971 after Mrs Jill Gee, the first chairman inspired to form the campaign with the aim to have tax removed from the War Widows Pension. With the support of the members they began to gain publicity and presented a petition with twelve and a half thousand signatures to Downing Street to remove tax from the pension. Eight years later, Baroness Thatcher’s Conservative Government removed all taxes. It has also been recently announced from April 2015, those who remarry, cohabit or form a civil partnership would be entitled to the pension for life.

PROUD: Kathleen Woodside and Erica Kemp with the award Mrs Woodside MBE added: “There have been a number of significant achievements and this work continues today with the recent announcement of the retention of the War Widows Pen-

sion for all war widows. “From those small modest beginnings, much has been achieved.” Cllr Ann O’Byrne and Assistant Mayor of Liverpool told Liv-

Pic: © Liverpool City Council erpool Life: “It is crucial that we recognise them at this time. The men and women here today are so proud and quite rightly that we’re honouring them at this time.

Home repossession statistics are ‘worrying’ By SAMANTHA GAULTER-GREEN Every day, nearly one in every 100 households are at risk of losing their home throughout the North West. The statistics come from Shelter, a national housing charity; that revealed the worst affected areas throughout the country. Their research follows up data recorded by the Ministry of Justice, which found that 180 people in the region are at danger of eviction every day. Halton topped the list within Merseyside with 1 in 68 people at threat of becoming homeless every day. It was ranked the third worst affected in the North West, and the 24th throughout the country overall. Liverpool was ranked at number four most at jeopardy throughout the North West, with Knowsley at six, and St Helens at eight. Ann O’Byrne, Liverpool City Council Cabinet Member for Housing, described these fig-

ures as ‘extremely worrying’. She told Liverpool Life: “We have seen a vast increase in those who are being threatened with eviction or actually evicted as a form of retaliation for reporting or complaining about their landlord. “This is really worrying and I myself have come across a number of these cases and have supported these residents. “It is utterly unacceptable and is part of the reason why we are introducing a landlord scheme across the city which will be introduced in April, and is about making sure that we raise the standards in the private rented sector.” Since the introduction of the bedroom tax many homeown-

ers throughout Merseyside have struggled with the extra fees. Cllr O’Byrne believes this is a significant reason for the numbers of evictions we are seeing across the region. “We have been very vigilant in our approach to the bedroom tax and have alongside the housing association, managed to prevent many evictions from moving forward. “What we don’t want is for people to lose their homes. We want everyone in the city and throughout to be able to stay in their homes, not just in the approach up to Christmas but in the coming months up until we have a general election and hopefully a change of government, so that we can have away with this

dreadful business that is the bedroom tax.” Statistics from Shelter show that over 200,000 claims for possession were made last year which put over half a million people throughout England at risk of eviction. Between July and September of this year more than 11,000 renting households throughout the country were made homeless, the highest number of evictions enforced by courts since records began in 2000. Shelter predicts that there will be more than 900 children throughout the region that will wake up homeless this Christmas, and so are pleading with the public to help these vulnerable

people and make a donation to their emergency appeal. Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: “Imagine the panic of receiving a notice through the door saying that you could lose your home – that’s the devastating reality for thousands of people every week. “The sky high cost of housing is making it harder and harder for families to keep a roof over their heads. And with the stakes so high, all it can take is one piece of bad luck to send a family spiralling towards homelessness. “We desperately need more support from the public to help us make sure no-one is left to fight homelessness on their own this Christmas.”

Liverpool is in top ﬁve for economic growth

By SOPHIE LOCKETT

The Liverpool business community has welcomed the news that the city has been named as one of the top five in the UK in terms of positive economic growth. The business and financial sector have applauded figures which show Liverpool is improving wages and narrowing inequality, with one of the best recoveries from the financial crisis of any UK cities. Mike Palin, Executive Director for Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), told Liverpool Life: “Liverpool City Region has recorded a strong economic performance over recent years. “Progress is being made to deliver sustainable economic growth across

the City Region. “This strong performance is on the back of increasing business investment, with the creation of an additional 12,000 private sector jobs in the last two years with many contained in the Key Growth Sectors of SUPERPORT, the Visitor Economy, and the Low Carbon Economy and also in Advanced Manufacturing.” Recent figures have also shown that there were 2,250 business start-ups in Liverpool last year, 48 percent more than the year before and well ahead of the 28.6 percent national increase. Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said: “This is welcome news and shows that our mantra of Liverpool being open for business is starting to pay off. “We are working really hard every single day to attract new firms and

investors to the city, as well as growing start-up businesses and encouraging entrepreneurs. “We need to create the most businessfriendly city in the UK, so that our city can be sustainable financially, and we can continue to provide services the people of Liverpool, despite the massive cuts in Government funding.” The city joins the likes of Belfast and Cambridge in the ‘good growth’ index, which examined characteristics that members of the public believe are important for long-term economic success. The report was conducted by PwC, one of the world’s leading professional services network, and was about the economic wellbeing in 39 urban areas of the country. According to the study, Liverpool is

in the top five due to having the largest fall in the country in income inequality, closing the gap between the rich and poor. It also showed the fourth highest rise in income levels, which supports the news that the number of people claiming jobseeker’s allowance in Merseyside has fallen by more than 4%. Generally, findings showed a promising rise in financial growth across the whole country. Nick Jones, director of PwC’s Public Sector Research Centre, said: “The challenge is to identify how best to unlock the potential of our cities – the engines of sustainable growth – by investing in the assets and enablers that businesses require to succeed and grow over the long-term, including skills, infrastructure and innovation.”

Life|News|6

Protect yourself from threat of meningitis

Vaccination in action

accommodation and sit in close confines with people from all over the country, which can cause the body to be exposed to bacteria and viruses. Provisional figures from PHE show that 21 cases of meningococcal disease have been reported in university students since the start of the academic year in September 2014, although only two of these have been confirmed as due to a serogroup C infection. In November it was confirmed that a Liverpool Hope University student died of meningitis inside her student flat in Childwall. Since then it has been revealed that that a second Liverpool Hope student had the disease. Public Health England’s Liverpool Centre are urging all students under 25 in universities in Merseyside to check they are vaccinated against meningococcal C (MenC) infection.

There are an estimated 3,400 cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK each year and around twice that of viral meningitis. A new awareness campaign hopes to inform people on how to protect themselves and spot the disease. Kayleigh Watthey reports.

student from Liverpool Hope University who is believed to have died from meningitis has sparked awareness campaigns to get students in the city to get vaccinated against the potentially fatal illness. Meningitis Now, the UK’s largest charity fighting the disease, is supporting Public Health England’s campaign to get students to have their men C vaccine which protects against infection by meningococcal group C bacteria, which can cause two very serious illnesses, meningitis and septicaemia. The Men C vaccine does not protect against meningitis caused by meningococcal group B bacteria, so it’s important to be aware of all signs and symptoms of meningitis. The Men C vaccine is available for all under-25s who have not been vaccinated and, from autumn 2014, a ‘freshers jab’ has been offered to all young people aged between 17 and 25 who are entering university for the first time. After babies and young children, teenagers and young people are the second most at risk group of contracting meningitis and septicaemia. It is estimated that 10% of the population carry the organism which causes meningitis and this increases to 25% for students. Andy Hopkinson, a spokesperson for Meningitis Now, told Liverpool Life that last week NHS England extended their Men C booster programme vaccine which was scheduled to run until the end of October but will now run until March 2015. It is thought that students are more at risk of carrying the bacteria that can cause meningitis because they often live in shared

ndy Hopkins told Liverpool Life: “The best bet for students is to see their campus health centre and bear in mind this vaccine is only for Men C. There are other strains of meningitis that you cannot vaccinate against at the moment so it’s important to recognise the signs and symptoms and seek urgent medical help if the disease is suspected.” Students in Liverpool can get their Men C vaccine from their university health centre or GP. Chief Executive of Meningitis Now, Sue Davie, said: “Anyone in their first year of university who hasn’t had the booster should ar-

range to get it as soon as possible. If in doubt, there’s no harm in having an extra dose.” Symptoms of meningitis such as fever, headache, vomiting, muscle pain and a fever, with cold hands and feet can disguise

themselves as other things, so it’s important to know the signs and symptoms and seek medical help if you suspect the disease. More information about meningitis can be found at www.meningitisnow.org.

How to drink safely this Christmas

hristmas is the time of year when many people like to enjoy an extra drink or two, but with Liverpool consistently named as one of the worst cities in the country for alcohol related health issues, it is important to know what the impact of over-indulging can have during the festive period, on our bodies long and short term. Here are some tips on drinking more sensibly and advice on how to skip that dreaded hangover the morning after. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause a wide number of health risks. Short-term; the dehydrating effect of alcohol can lead to hangovers. Longer term; excessive drinking can lead to stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal complications, fertility problems and weight gain, and the loss of certain vitamins and minerals. There is also an increased risk of certain cancers. Drinking over the recommended amount is also the biggest cause of liver cirrhosis in the UK. On average more alcohol related problems in the UK are found in people who regularly drink over the recommended levels and it is not only those who get drunk or binge who are at risk. So how much is excessive? The NHS recommends that men should drink no more than 3-4 units a day and that women should drink no more than 2-3 units per day. So what does this look like? A pint of beer is two units, a glass of wine contains 1.5 units and a single measure of any spirit comes in at 1 unit. It is also important to double check as drinks can vary in strength with some lagers accounting for three units and wines two units. A lot of us will be dealing with hangovers this festive season. While there are no cures for a hangover there are ways to reduce its impact on you the next day. The main cause of a hangover is in fact dehydration, alcohol is a diuretic which causes increases in the need to urinate, leaving the body without enough liquids to stave off headaches, sickness, dizziness and tiredness.

Here are some tips on healthy drinking from the British Dietetics Association: 1. Set yourself limits 2. Know what you are buying 3. Choose smaller measures 4. At home, use alcohol measures 5. Avoid rounds 6. Sip a drink slowly 7. Try white wine as a spritzer 8. Avoid salty snacks 9. Try non-alcoholic alternatives

How to avoid a hangover 1. Have a meal before you start drinking 2. Drink plenty of water or soft drinks 3. Try to stop drinking well before the end of the night 4. Stick to clear drinks 5. Eat potassium rich foods 6. Avoid “Hair of the dog”

Words by ADRIAN SPEED

! HO ! O H HO !

JMU Journalism pulled on their best Christmas Jumpers for a special fundraising day in aid of Macmillian Cancer support. On the last news day of 2014, we were ready to celebrate in style. Fundraising organiser Olivia Swayne- Atherton said: “It was good fun and now we’re hoping that we can top last years’ total when the team raised £200.”

Life|Special|8

SEASONS © AMARA

DENNIS DEXTER

©TESCO

A dog is for life By SARAH HANCOCKS

hristmas is a time for all the family to get together and celebrate the festivities but for our four legged friends, it can be tough. According to a survey by the Pet Food Firm, 71% of owners feed their pet dogs turkey and gravy at Christmas which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, not to mention the mince pies that can also damage their kidneys. Manager of Merseyside Dogs Home Paul Dunne told Liverpool Life: “Over the past decade we’ve had a lot of change in attitude where people forget that dogs are dogs and they are different from humans. “We seem to be getting an increased amount of people who are treating them as humans and giving them human food which isn’t helping them whatsoever and can cause behavioural problems”. Dogs can be subjected to unhealthy diets and people tend to over-feed their pets when they over-feed themselves on Christmas dinner. When feeding your family this Christmas, we must be wary of the dangers human food can have on our pets and how overfeeding them can affect their wellbeing. Mr Dunne added: “The worst thing that we have at Christmas is chocolate. “We as humans tend to increase our intake of

chocolate over Christmas and so do the children too but it is actually poisonous to a dog. “If you give a dog a small piece of chocolate as you’re eating it, you’re not doing it any favours”. What you can and cannot feed your dog is not the only issue at large this season. Liverpool is one of the top ten cities in the UK with the highest rates of abandoned dogs. Puppies are a desirable gift for most households however a lot of people are unaware of the financial cost and long term commitment needed to take care of their pet leading to a lot of abandoned dogs in the new year. Mr Dunne said: “Urban areas are more attractive for people trying to push puppy sales before Christmas. “This year we've had a lot of trouble dealing with puppies coming in from Eastern Europe which are being smuggled in before Christmas and sold on. “So to a certain extent it’s to people who are a lover of these dogs and want one for Christmas but they don't realise what the responsibility entails.” If you’re contemplating buying a dog for someone as a gift this Christmas, consider the long term responsibilities and care needed to look after the pet properly. For more information about how to care for your pet properly log onto https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/

DAISY

TOBY ALFIE

FERGUS

The Liverpool Life pets parade

Deck the halls with boughs of holly By OLIVIA SWAYNE

- ATHERTON AND AMY NICHOLSON

With the madness of Black Friday over and the first door of the advent calendar open the countdown to the big day has officially begun. Liverpool Life spoke to the people of Liverpool to ask when the right time to put the decorations up is.

Chen Wu, 28, Student at University of Liverpool:

“No, I’m just going to go round to my girlfriend’s and my friend’s house so I can see theirs.”

Lynne Donnahey, 42, from Woolton: “I’m putting mine up on the 16th of December just because it’s my brother’s birthday and it’s a tradition we’ve always done with the kids.”

Liam Saunders, 23, Volunteer at Oxfam:

“I haven’t really got that many Christmas decorations up at the moment but I will definitely be getting them out by the end of the week, you don’t want to leave it too late especially if you’ve spent a lot.”

Life|Special|9

GREETINGS Merry Scousemas By OLIVIA SWAYNE-ATHERTON

ach Christmas millions of people go out and try and find that perfect card that will not only look good but will make them laugh. This Christmas a card shop with a difference makes a stand in Liverpool with its ‘Scouse’ flavoured cards with everything from ‘have a boss day’ to ‘Merry Christmas bezzie mate’. Cards4scousers started 18 months ago when they conducted market research and found the popularity in Scouse-themed accounts online, but noticed a gap in the market for a service that offered both Scouse humour and a quality local card service. Gary Carney, Operations Director, told Liverpool Life: “Since we did the Christmas markets last year in Williamson square people often ask if we are going to have a shop in town, but putting a shop in the middle of town sounds like a good idea,

but it is extremely expensive.” Cards4scousers has a pop up store at Rex, the concept store which is located in the basement of the Range. With the huge success last year and their best-selling card being ‘Happy Crimbo you Lil Divvy’, they wanted to reach a wider audience. Gary told Liverpool Life: “That was another reason why we have the pop up store in town because the website appeals to be a certain demographic it appeals to people more comfortable online so by having this store we got to hit a wider audience.” Not only has their popularity soared in Liverpool but people across the country and the world can’t get enough of the scouse culture. He added: “We do get people from other parts of the country asking for our cards. We export quite regularly as well to the main pockets of scousers from all over the world, America, Australia, Canada so it is interesting to see where scousers are in the world.”

Rex is Liverpool’s very first concept store and box store. Home to a unique collection of independent retailers, artists and designers. Gary told Liverpool Life: “Places like Rex are greatly important to the city as they provide a retail experience that you wouldn’t get in any other city. When you walk in there you know that you are in Liverpool, and you get the opportunity to see some very talented local retailers, and they’ve let us in there with them! With more independent businesses in and around Liverpool the festive period can either make or break them. Gary told Liverpool Life: “Buying from independents is important as it promotes creativity within the city and in the end enhances the retail experience. Liverpool has a reputation of looking after its own and being a little bit different, so supporting independents gives Liverpool the chance to sustain itself as the unique place that it really is.”

Men who hate festive period

By LAURA SCHUMANN The UK’s premier online gift shop, Dotcomgiftshop, has revealed the nation is full of ‘miserable men’ at Christmas. The online survey asked 1,695 customers about their Christmas shopping habits, the difference between men and women’s attitude towards the festive season, and the best and worst things about Christmas. The results show that men are twice as likely as women to find relatives the worst thing about Christmas, men are six times more likely to finish all their gift shopping in under an hour and men are three times as likely to want shiny expensive gifts for presents. The website states that, from the results of the survey: “Men are lazy, selfish and hate spending time with their family.” Other ‘humbug’ results found that a third of people agree grandparents give the worst presents, 7% of people will put some gifts on eBay on Boxing Day and nearly 50% say the worst thing about Christmas is the cost. In the ‘Spirt of Christmas’ section, 95% of people said they prefer giving gifts rather than receiving them and almost 35% of people said seeing their family is what they enjoy most about the festive period. The nation’s collective favourite thing about Christmas is Christmas dinner.

but when is too early to start? Pauline Bradshaw, 60, from Wirral:

“I’ll be putting mine up on Christmas week but I think it’s different if you’ve got kids.”

Nikki Walker, 29, Christmas Market Worker: “I put mine up in the middle of November because I don’t get a chance once the Christmas markets start.”

Karen Moore, 58, from Glassgow:

“I’m putting mine up on Friday but I’d have them up all year round if I could!”

Life|Special|10

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It’s a wrap!

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BEST GIFTS ON A BUDGET... u n - - -d N - - -er £ on gifts for their loved ones this year. So, even if you’ve missed the new found manic events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we’ve chosen our best picks from the high street. You can either go out and face the masses and buy them in store, or order from the comfort of your own home! And the best part, everything we’ve picked is under £20!

By EMMA MARSDEN

o other season manages to break the bank quite like Christmas, every year we all spend over the odds on heaps of presents, lashings of food for our Christmas day feast and well... even more food. But, not to worry, the high street offers many bargains to those who don’t want to spend over the odds

FOR HER MITTENS ASDA £5

u n d e r £20 ----

PUDDIN G TU SAIN HAT SBURY’S £4

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M I H FOR

--- -----

OX SOAP B £1 WILKO

PUG SOCKS PRIMARK £2

u n - - e- - r- - -£ 15 - - - - - - -d -

STIG MUG SET M&S £10

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PERS DOG SLIP £10 O F&F TESC

POOL LARM PAC MAN A CLOCK 16.99 BLUE INC £

SHOT GL BHS £1 ASSES 8

JUMPER Y T L E V NO £20 BURTON

WASHBAG M&S £15 XMAS JUMPER ASDA £14 ROBIN TEA CUP & SAUCER BHS £6

EAD GINGERBR BHS £10

MAN

What’s on this season

PANTO

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Jack & The Beanstalk 11/12/2014 - 04/01/2015

A re-imagining of the classic debuts at Unity Theatre on 2nd December.

TOWIE’s Dan Osborne stars as Jack in the Epstein Theatre’s performance of Jack and the Beanstalk

Aladdin 13/12/2014 – 04/01/2015 Ray Quinn leads a cast full of local favourites including Claire Sweeney and Leanne Campbell for the Empire’s performance of Aladdin.

Rumpelstiltskin 02/12/2014 - 12/01/2015

FAMILY PICKS

Liverpool One’s Ice Festival returned in November and runs all the way to 4th January. This year’s event includes the popular ice rink and bar and saw the return of the UK’s only real ice slide. The continental markets are also back throughout the city centre until the 19th December, with St George’s Hall also hosting a Winter Arts Market

on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December. The Snowflake trail brings numerous snowflakes around the city centre that people can follow, meaning there will be a white Christmas in Liverpool regardless of the weather. The trail leads to events such as light projections, sculptures and street art and runs until 28th December. Radio City Live will return to the Echo Arena on 10th December for a Christmas concert. Artists performing at this year’s event include Olly Murs, 5 Seconds of Summer, The Vamps and The Saturdays.

CAROLS A number of carol services will be taking place throughout the city over the festive period: Action for Children Carol Service – 3rd December 19:00-21:00 Liverpool Cathedral – 20th December 15:00 – 16:00 Liverpool Cathedral – 21st December 15:00-16:00 Liverpool Cathedral Christmas Eve carols- 24th December 15:00-15:45

WORDS BY ADAM JONES

Life|Arts|11

Keep an open mind and the world will open up for you ‘ ’ As I said, the course is what you make of it - it opens up a lot of paths and avenues that you can explore

Michael Glynn talks to Luke Johnson about. his career after LJMU and the world of techno-journalism

his week’s Liverpool life graduate success story highlights how an open mind really can open up a world of opportunities if you make the most of your degree. Luke Johnson graduated in 2009 and has spent five years in the world of technology journalism, firstly for a year at gadget website T3 where he was offered a full-time job following work his placement there. After that he moved onto Trusted Reviews, who work closely with nationally-acclaimed TV programme The Gadget Show, and has been a crucial part of that organisation for four years. However, Luke never expected to follow this path during his Journalism degree at LJMU. He told Liverpool Life: “I originally wanted to go into sports journalism but work experience showed me that I could really succeed in technology journalism and it’s now been five years of working in this field. “My advice to students nearing graduation would be to experience lots of different areas of journalism and be open to working in those different areas.” Many students worry about missing university life when they are thrown into the harsh world of work, but Luke reassuringly says that he doesn’t reminisce about his uni life too much because of how happy he is in his job and chosen career path. “I wouldn’t say I look back on any particular thing I miss from uni life, just because the industry I’m working in is really fun and I have many opportunities in the world of work. I miss the more casual working hours of university and initially that was quite hard to adapt quickly to,” he added. Luke’s work experience played a par-

ticularly important role in what he has gone on to do, and he explains that it showed just how much students can get out of their placements and wider opportunities offered to students during their course. He said: “The course is what you make of it. Like any course, it opens up a lot of paths and avenues that you can explore. My work experience led directly to me getting a permanent job and subsequently deciding to stay in that field. “Tutors can also be really helpful in terms of opportunities, that helped me a lot and it’s important to use that. Your final year is very important and the final project was crucial in shaping me as I was given more freedom to do what I wanted.”

Theatre

A Christmas snowstorm hits the Liverpool Royal Court Theatre with the opening night of ‘Scouse of the Antarctic’. The slapstick comedy sees American and Russian submarine captains John McGrellis and Lindzi Germain fight for the ownership of the North Pole to reap the benefits of its massive oil and gas reserves. They get there only to find a Scouser, played by Brookside’s Mickey Starke, has already set up camp in a Hawaiian shirt with a know-it-all student, Hayley Hampson, in tow. Box office: 0870 787 1866

Film: Nativity 3 Dude, Where’s my Donkey? This Christmas the pupils of St Bernadette’s and their much-loved, madcap teacher Mr. Poppy are back for their biggest adventure yet involving fantastic flash mobs, excitable elves, Christmas carols and of course Archie the donkey! Martin Clunes, Catherine Tate and Ralf Little all return in this silver screen Christmas comedy for the little ones. Showing across the region.

Pantomime Pantomime returns to the Liverpool Empire Theatre for Christmas 2014/15 as Ray Quinn (pictured) stars in the Far East adventures of Aladdin.

s for the future, Luke is happy to stay along the same path and see how things develop, saying: “In the future I would hope to follow the same path and climb further up the ladder, seeing what opportunities can come my way.” The JMU journalism course, according to Luke, has given him many of the skills he uses day to day as News Editor and in the wider industry he now finds himself working in as a professional. He found it suited what he wanted to do in his chosen career down to the ground and he was eager to point out that the experiences he got from it have shaped what he is doing today. “The course certainly gave me the basic skills and foundations to work off to find employment, if not walk straight into a job. “Stuff like the newswriting classes which showed you how to write to industry standards and being able to approach people for interviews and the manner in which to do it. I use all of these in my day to day work and they’re crucial to a lot of jobs in the industry.”

CRITICS’ CHOICE

Ray is joined by a host of local favourites such as Claire Sweeney as The Genie of the Ring and Leanne Campbell as Princess Jasmine. Tickets are on sale now for a show that is sure to be enjoyed by all the family. Box office: 0151 702 7320

Music Liverpool Philharmonic’s celebration of Christmas has been much-loved by generations, and this year will be no different with another sleigh-full of festive delights on offer in the stunning surroundings of the newly refurbished grade II listed Hall. There will be carols, comedy and musical celebration of all kinds. You’ll find there’s something for everyone at Liverpool Philharmonic this Christmas. Shows will take place on the 20th and 22nd of December. Box office: 0151 709 3789

EDITOR: Technology journalist Luke Johnson © @johnsonjourno and Trusted Reviews

Life|Style12

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Life|Style|13

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For women, it’s all about metallics, glitz and glam. The more sparkles - the better. For men, neutral sophistication is the way forward with subtle accessories to make sure you’re looking suave.

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‘Tis the season

Life|Sport|14

Parrot returns to our TV screens

Premier League winter break: Yay or nay? SAYS: ADAM JONES

By JOHN ELSWORTH

The UK Snooker Championships returned to our TVs on Saturday, commentated by John Parrott for his eighth year running. The Liverpudlian snooker player was discovered at the early age of fifteen, turning professional in 1983 and first appeared in the World Championships in 1984 nicknamed ‘The Entertainer’. He claimed the title of World Snooker Champion for the first time in 1991 and also the UK Snooker Champion title the same year. Parrott retired from the game in 2010 after failing to pass the World Championship Qualifiers, losing to his opponent Zhang Anda 6 – 10. Speaking of his retirement, Parrot said: “I still have the utmost respect for the game. I’ve just lost in the World Championship and I’m not going to spit the dummy out. But I don’t enjoy the hours of practice anymore.” John Parrott’s television career began in 1996 when he was a team captain on A Question until 2002. He became a studio expert on snooker in 2006, regularly being paired with Stephen Hendry. He became an Honorary Patron of the British Crown Green Bowling Association, a sport which he has had a keen interest in since the age of twelve. The snooker legend launched John Parrott Cue Sports online in 2008, a retailer selling snooker and pool cues and snooker collectibles both in Liverpool and online.

Reds fans’ ticket protest By ANTHONY FISHER

LFC fans have been protesting at Anfield after a rise in match ticket prices. A banner last weekend read; ‘Let me tell you a story of a poor boy’ during Liverpool FC’s home game against Stoke City. Last month, during a match against Hull City, fans at Anfield held banners with the words ‘£NOUGH IS £NOUGH’ printed on them. Smaller flags were also present during the match that indicated fans fears for what ticket prices could rise to by 2020. Match goers have noticed the prices for the tickets rise over the past 20 years, from £4 in 1990, to £24 in 2000 and rising further to £43 in 2010. The most expensive match tickets currently cost £59 while the cheapest are £37. Although the prices of the tickets are cheaper for children and disabled people.

The tradition of a busy festive football period in this country is a long-standing one, but these days is a highly contested issue as players in England see the other top leagues in Europe given time off over Christmas. I don’t think that the tradition should change, our festive schedule is a massive part of what makes our league the biggest in the world, its unique nature separates the Premier League from the rest of the continent and almost challenges players to test how much willpower and fitness they actually have. As a spectacle for the fans, the need for a busy festive period is unquestionable. How often do opportunities come up for whole families to go and watch their favourite teams together as it does on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day? Festive games always attract large numbers and always seem to be games

that stick in your head. After looking for your team’s local derby on the fixture list at the start of the season, the next thing a fan will look at is who they are playing over Christmas. It’s a staple part of our country’s schedule for an entire season. If a winter break were to be introduced to the Premier League, how long would it be? The two weeks that we see in the likes of Spain, or a much longer break such as the one implemented in Germany? If it becomes a longer break, the risk as always is that players will lose fitness and find it a lot harder to keep up any form they may have gained. The festive period provides English teams the unique chance of either piecing together a good run of results to catapult them up the table, or to almost instantly redeem themselves after a defeat.

SAYS: KIERAN ETORIA-KING

The reasons behind England’s tournament struggles are complex and mysterious, but our long and intense season has a lot to do with it. It’s not just English players who suffer – think of the last two World Cups. Were there any Premier League players who really excelled? While Europe’s other top leagues give their players a chance to recharge, English clubs up the ante for packed Holiday schedules – and our game is already so much faster and more tiring than theirs. Boxing Day and New Year’s Day football is a long standing tradition in this country, and I don’t think that needs to change. But it’s no wonder player’s burn out by the time the summer tournaments roll around. We can’t keep demanding so much and then blaming them for not producing – yes, they are paid enormously, but they are not supermen. Michael Owen was Liverpool’s

star striker at 17. Nine years later when his knee exploded at the World Cup in 2006, effectively ending his time as a top player, he was just 26. Yet somehow, he became a laughing stock for being ‘injury prone’. Similarly, Wayne Rooney has not hit his top form in several seasons. Mesut Ozil is the latest foreign player to fall victim to our demanding schedule, yet we continue to ignore the obvious. The recent storm around 19-year-old Raheem Sterling being rested by England for a game against Estonia – Estonia – typifies the problem. Nobody can maintain top form year in, year out. If we want to get the best out of our players, and the world’s best players, we need to give them a mid-season break. Keep Boxing Day and New Years Day, spread the other fixtures into midweek slots throughout the season, and let the lads have a couple of weeks to recharge.

McCarthy sidelined for Hull By JOSIE TIMMS James McCarthy is unlikely to be passed fit to play tomorrow’s game against Hull City as he recovers from a hamstring injury, Roberto Martinez has said. But Everton boss Martinez is not giving up hope on Steven Naismith returning to face the Tigers after he suffered a hamstring injury of his own. McCarthy has been out of play since limping off the pitch against Wolfsburg last week, and missed the defeat at Spurs on Sunday. Martinez said of the centre-mid: “He has shown good signs over the last couple of days and we will keep an eye on him “But I don’t think he will be able to play tomorrow night. “I don’t think he will be ready for that.”

Everton under-21s impress By SEAN PURVIS

Arouna Kone, Bryan Oviedo and Conor McAleny all scored for Everton Under-21s as several members of the first-team squad aided an entertaining 3-2 win against Sunderland at Goodison Park on Monday. The overage trio were joined on David Unsworth’s team sheet by reserve goalkeeper Joel Robles in his first outing of the campaign, while Costa Rican leftback Oviedo marked his first match action since 5 October. The game was free entry for all and over 1250 fans turned out for an evening of entertaining football under the floodlights. And following Kone’s 45-minute appearance for the young Blues six days earlier in a 1-1 draw against Celtic, the striker continued to mark his return to fitness with 75 minutes and a predatory first-half strike.

Tragic batsman ‘63 and not out’ forever By JOSIE TIMMS Phillip Hughes will forever remain 63 and not out after Cricket Australia have amended the scorecard for his final match. Hughes was listed as ‘retired hurt’ after being struck on the head by a ball, during the first day of South Australia’s match against New South Wales, but died two days later. His death was followed by an outpouring of grief across the sporting world, with supporters and professionals paying tribute to to the former Hampshire, Middlesex and Worcestershire player. Twitter users have been paying their respects for Hughes with the hashtag #putoutyourbats and the England cricket team have tweeted: “Our deepest sympathies go out to Phil Hughes’ family, friends and teammates at this incredibly sad time.” Professionals across the sporting world, such as Crystal Palace’s and Australia’s captain, Mile Jedinak, and snooker’s Neil Robertson, have also been putting out their bats in memory of the 25-year-old batsman.

While Cricket Australia have paid tribute by placing 63 bats in the window of its Melbourne offices, one for each run he scored in his final innings. Teammate David Warner, who was on the pitch during the tragic game, posted on Instagram about his team mate “#putoutyourbats missing my little mate so much!! I wish I can wake up from this bad dream. Once again not out on the cricket field and forever #63notout love you BRAZ!!” Australia’s Captain, Michael Clarke, spoke on behalf of his team at a press conference after Hughes’ death, stating: “Words cannot express the loss we all feel as a team right now. To Greg, Virginia (his parents), Jason and Megan (his siblings) we share the deep pain that you’re feeling. “Last night, I asked Cricket Australia if Hughesy’s Australian one-day international shirt number, 64, could be retired, to which they agreed. That means so much. “His legacy of trying to improve each and every day will drive us for the rest of our lives. “Our dressing room will never be the same, we loved him.”

CLOSE: Hughes ducking short ball

Life|Sport|15

Leopards’ den awaits for hockey champs by SEAN PURVIS

Liverpool John Moores University are due to lock horns with a Manchester select in a North West Ice Hockey derby this Thursday. The newly formed LJMU Leopards will take on their neighbouring city’s team, made up of Manchester University’s finest in Widnes. The North West Winter Varsity Trophy is up for grabs and a large turnout is expected, with both teams featuring several students that play high in the amateur ranks in the English National Ice-Hockey league. Last year’s final saw the University of Manchester beat Manchester Metropolitan University 5-3 to win the trophy for the second year running, but now last year’s finalists have joined forces

with the city’s other main university, the University of Salford, to try and keep the cup out of the Leopard’s reach. Assistant Captain Kieran Strangeway, who also plays for Widnes Wild, has urged students of Liverpool to get to Widnes to support their university, telling Liverpool Life: “I’m looking forward to a good atmosphere on Thursday and to hopefully seeing a lot of LJMU students coming down to Widnes to showcase what will be a very good game against Manchester, hopefully it will promote our sport, which at the minute isn’t as popular in England as it is in other countries.” Doors open at 6.30pm on Thursday with the face-off at 7.00pm at the home of Widnes Wild Ice hockey club, tickets are £5 and are available at skiddle.com.

CHALLENGE: LJMU Leopards

Nicholls enters racing duo for Grand National by JOHN ELSWORTH

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls has won the Becher three times and is now set to face the Grand National and Aintree fences with two horses. Nicholls will be entering both Just A Par and Mon Parrain among the 28 entries at this Saturday’s race at Aintree, with ‘Mon Parain’ finishing runner up in 2011’s Topham Chase. Seven-year-old Just A Par won a Grade Two in his first season in novice company, showing

great promise as he came fifth on his only start. Speaking of the Grand National, Nicholls said: “I have got two in each of the races over the Grand National fences this weekend. Both Mon Parrain and Just A Par have been aimed at the Betfred Becher Chase. “Just A Par had a run at Wincanton the other day and he could do well in a race like this.” Chance Du Roy, last year’s Becher Chase winner is currently favourite to win for a second time for the Philip Hobbs’ sta-

ble. Nicholls could also run in the Becher having come fourth at Aintree on his last start in the Betfred Mobile Veterans’ Handicap Chase in October. The Betfred Grand Sefton Chase, the second of the two races throughout the Grand National course, has 21 entries by the Nicholls trained duo including Rolling Aces and last year’s winner, Rebel Rebellion. The horse’s odds are 7-1 and 8-1 with Rolling Aces being bookies favourite. Aintree will be the last race of the year.

Greenbank hosts grand-prix by JOSIE TIMMS The Merseyside Disability Table Tennis Grand Prix is to take place on December 6 and 7 at the Greenback Sport Academy. The event is a ranking tournament of the British Table Tennis Association for People with Disabilities (BTTAD), although to gain ranking the players must be members of the BTTAD, although anyone is welcome to join the event, regardless of skill or any other table tenis competition experience. Over 50 players from throughout Britain have registered to play in four competitions over the weekend; Doubles, junior singles, open singles and class singles competitions.

The British ranking tournament has people of all different abilities involved, including a Paralympic bronze medalist from London, the youngest player in Great Britain 16-yearold Megan Shackleton, and the current class 1 world champion, Rob Davis. Tournament organiser Mark Palmer and former Paralympian told Liverpool Life: “It’s good to hold events like this. “The Greenbank regularly holds grass roots events as well as regional and national sports events. It helps raise the profile of Greenbank and what we’re trying to do. “It helps to get attention for disabled sports and get more people involved, as there’s a

mixture of players involved in the tournament and it inspires the next generation of disabled players and helps attract new participants.” This year is the 10th time the tournament has been held and Mark told Liverpool Life how the event has grown over the last ten years: “The popularity of the event has definitely grown as it used to be a local event with 10-15 participants just from Merseyside when it started. “But now it has grown into a national event, with people playing from all over the country, and it has a lot of substance behind it.” Play takes place each day from 9-5pm and spectators of all ages are welcome to attend the event.

Troubled Reds travel to King Power Stadium by SEAN PURVIS AND JOSIE TIMMS Liverpool travel to bottom side Leicester City tonight and will hope to make it two wins on the bounce after the struggling Reds laboured to a 1-0 win over Stoke on Saturday. Misfiring striker Mario Balotelli and France’s Mamadou Sakho are set to miss tonight’s game, although the defender has now returned to training after being out

of play since sustaining a thigh injury in September. Leicester are hoping to reignite their own season after Queens Park Rangers condemned them to their sixth defeat in eight games on Saturday. Foxes striker David Nugent is a minor doubt whilst Dean Hammond has returned to training with Nigel Pearson’s side after a calf-injury. Meanwhile Liverpool’s captain Steven Gerrard is set to be re-

stored to the starting line-up after being rested last weekend as Reds manager Brendan Rodgers and his captain were forced to deny rumors of a rift between the pair as Gerrard started Saturday’s win over Stoke on the bench, on the 16th anniversary of his first team debut. Speaking of the rumors, Northern Irishman Rodgers - who has offered Gerrard a new contract - said: “No, 150% no. He's been an outstanding player in my time

here and he's at the stage of his career where it's not about the number of games but the level of games. “I love working with Steven Gerrard. I've enjoyed every single minute. I hope that continues.” Off the field Rodgers has another problem in his hands, with Italian striker Mario Balotelli being asked by the Football Association to explain an Instagram post which included an image of

the video game character Super Mario and the comment: “jumps like a black man and grabs coins like a Jew”. The former Manchester City man quickly took down the post and apologised but the FA have begun an investigation into the image. It is an unwanted distraction as the Liverpool side look to record back-to-back wins for the first time this season in the Premier League. Kick-off is at 19.45 at the King Power Stadium.

Rovers injury list still growing by JOSIE TIMMS

Tranmere Rovers’ bad luck has continued after a second onloan centre-back has been struck down with an injury. Defender Will Aimson fractured both his tibia and fibia in a collision with teammate Danny Holmes during the team’s 3-1 win against Portsmouth this weekend. The match was only the 18-yearold’s second appearance, making his debut in their 2-1 defeat to Southend on November 22nd and he had been temporarily signed from Hull City just last week and is now set to be out of action for the rest of the season. Aimson’s injury follows Rovers colleague Josh Thompson’s hamstring injury last month which is said to have put him on the sidelines for 12 weeks, after he was also signed on loan from Colchester United. Coach Chris Shuker told how the injury took some of the shine off the game, stating: “For Will it is a case of being strong and keeping the end goal in sight. I’m sure he will get there.” Tranmere are now unable to make any more loan signings until the January transfer window but should have plenty of defensive cover going into the busy Winter period.

Sparring setback for Price by JOSIE TIMMS

David Price has been forced to pull out of his comeback fight due to a bicep injury. The heavyweight was due to return to the ring in Germany this Saturday but has had to cancel after picking up the injury whilst sparring. Price has been unable to fight since June after undergoing an operation on his hand but was back to full fitness and due to fight Emiliano Zarate in Oldenburg this weekend, due to be broadcast live on Channel Five. The former British champion has said of his decision to withdraw: ‘’It’s frustrating as I felt that I was in the shape of my life going into this fight. These things happen in boxing, it’s a minor injury and I’ll be fine in the next couple of weeks. “However, it’s not worth the risk of fighting before it’s completely healed. Next year is the big one for me, I will need to be completely fit and injury free. This is just a minor setback, I’ll be back in the ring and back at my best in the next couple of months.’’ Price is not the only injury blow to the December 6 show after Yoan Pablo Hernandez was also forced to postpone his IBF World Cruiserweight title defense against Ola Afolabi after sustaining an elbow injury whilst training. Still to fight at the show is Juergen Braehmer defending his WBA World Light Heavyweight Champion against Pawel Glazewski, whilst rising German Super Middleweight star, Tyron Zeuge, takes on Stjepan Bozic for the IBF International crown.

Liverpool

LifeSPORT

2nd December 2014

Inside Sport

LEE HAS THE POWER

POWERFUL: North West powerlifting champion Lee McNeill

Scouser victorious in North West Championship

by DAN GOULDING

A Liverpool-born student has been crowned the under 83kg champion in the North West regional Great Britain Powerlifting Federation in his first ever competition. Lee McNeill, 20, from Liverpool, entered the competition as an under-23 junior in the under 83kg weight category, which was held at Intershape Gym in Colne. The event consists of compet-

itors having three attempts at squatting, bench press and deadlifts, with the highest score for each exercise added together for a grand total. The 20-year-old squatted 190kg, bench pressed 137.5kg and deadlifted a massive 240kg, giving him a sum of 567.5kg to win the competition. Lee, who is a third year physics student at the University of Manchester, said: “Realistically I was looking to get the highest total out of the juniors in my class, so to be the youngest lifter

and win the whole weight class is awesome. “I was really nervous to lift and didn’t get much sleep the night before, but as soon as the first lift was out of the way I really enjoyed it and couldn’t wait to get on the platform for my next lift.” The champion started going to the gym at the age of 15 but eventually lost interest in the usual bodybuilding routines and started powerlifting 18 months ago with his training partner,

Chris Graham, who won his class in the under 93kg weight category in the regional championship. Their exercise schedule is Chris’s own programme, called the ‘over-under’ method, which consists of two days training, combining squats and deadlifts one day and bench pressing and overhead press the next day- with a day rest in-between sessions. They also look to overload one of the lifts by using equipment

or different technique. The Liverpudlian has qualified for the nationals, which are expected to take place sometime in 2015, and is looking to improve his totals next time round. However Lee, who remains modest, added: “Some of the lifters at the championship put my lifting into perspective. One guy, Tom Martin, unofficially broke the world record in his class with a 351kg deadlift, so I’ve got a long way to go before I’m even near that level.”

Should football have a winter break? p 14

Tragic cricketer to remain ‘63 and not out’ p 14