Liverpool Life 3:2 October 7 2014 by Steve Harrison

07 - October - 2014

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S ISSUE... NEWS

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Library closures cause protests throughoutCity

LIFEextra

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Ricky Tomlinson presents Golden Oldies awards

SPORT

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Team GB led to victory thanks to Crobsy gymnast

STAGE vs SCREEN?

Anniversary accolade for family firm Deepak Matta behind the till of his famous store on Bold Street. Find out more: Page 2

©Josie O’Sullivan

New Everyman cinema receives the green light

By JOSIE O’SULLIVAN The Everyman theatre is facing frustration after plans to launch a cinema with the same name were given the go-ahead this afternoon. The cinema, which will be based in the Metquarter shopping centre, will share the same name as the well-known Liverpool theatre after councillors on Liverpool City Council’s planning committee gave the scheme the green light. The plans may also be seen as a threat to other cinemas in the city such as the independent FACT - Foundation for Art and Creative Technology based on Wood Street - and the Odeon in Liverpool One. Councillor Stephanie Navarro, who is a member of the planning committee, commented on the plans and her concerns for FACT. She said: “FACT is not just

a cinema it’s a cultural organisation. It’s had its funding cut dramatically in the last few years. I know it’s not a planning issue but I’ve still got concerns about it.” City planning officers said: “The applicants have stated that the Metquarter is emerging from a challenging period of relatively poor performance, in terms of levels of trading, footfall and occupation, caused partly by the national economic recession, which has had a particularly damaging effect on the retail sector, and also as a result of the arrival and success of Liverpool One within the City Centre.” The Everyman Theatre told Liverpool Life that they had no comment. The Metquarter opened in 2006, in a building on Whitechapel which was formerly a post office, and it soon attracted luxury brands.

Life|News|2

Tim’s Trek

Store takes top award

By JOSIE O’SULLIVAN

CUTS: Wavertree Library set for closure. Pic © Wikimedia Creative Commons

Protesters’ anger at closures By ANGHARAD MILLINGTON

Protests took place on Saturday over the possible closures of Liverpool libraries as 11 out of the 18 are set to shut. Liverpool TUC, Old Swan Against Cuts (OSAC) and Liverpool Against the Cuts (LATC) all came together for the protests which took place outside Central Library. Around 200 people voiced their anger at the council’s proposed plans and Joe Anderson’s stance on the matter. Larry Bowles, Chairman of OSAC, said: “Joe Anderson’s famous quote is that he wouldn’t rob Peter to pay Paul! “There’s many facets to a library you wouldn’t believe and if I could send one message to Joe Anderson, I would say forget your career, think about the people.” Previously, Mayor Anderson

had hit back at his critics and argued that the cuts forced on the council has meant there may be no alternative but to make difficult decisions. He stated on Twitter that had Liverpool been given average cuts to the budget, and that libraries could have been saved. In August, Liverpool Green Party claimed that they could have stopped the library closures and ensured that their adjustments were fully checked by council finance, despite Joe Anderson claiming otherwise. The libraries identified are Breck Road, Dovecot, Fazakerley, Kensington, Lee Valley, Old Swan, Spellow, Walton, Wavertree, West Derby and Sefton Park libraries and all at risk of closure, with low visiting numbers and high running costs resulting in a potential shutdown. Richard Hunter, Save Se-

Liverpool

Life Team Editor Matthew Judge

Features editor Megan Hill

News Editor Stevie Pickering

Features Josh Kelsall Amy Holsworth Olivia SwayneAtherton

News Amy Nicholson Emma Marsden Laura Schumann Samuel Peers Emily Lewis Kieran Etoria-King

Sport editor Hannah Anderson Sports Liam Cotton Rebecca Cookson

fton Park Library Campaign, said: “Eleven libraries are threatened with closure by the council. We understand the council are responding to the cuts from central government but we feel they should make a stand against central government, rather than close libraries. “Libraries are getting a £2.5million cut in a three year budget, we think that’s disgraceful! Libraries are hubs within the community and in some communities they are the only hub left. The councillors and Joe Anderson should stand up to the government and lead a fight back,” he added. Following the first public meeting on Thursday 25th September at Lee Valley Millennium Centre, a four-week consultation period has `been announced to discuss a selection of affected libraries.

INSPIRATION: Tim completes China charity walk © Liverpool NHS Trust By ANGHARAD September, and returned this MILLINGTON week after nine days trekking

A Liverpool dad has returned from the trip of a lifetime after walking 80km along the Great Wall of China and has just reached his £2,600 fundraising target. Currently based in the Vascular Department of the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Tim Dwyer was so moved by the experiences of patients in intensive care he wanted to raise money to pay for new equipment. The dad-of-three, said: “It was hard work at times as we walked for up to eight hours a day, but it was an incredible experience. A lot of it is just a pile of rocks and we wouldn’t see anyone else for hours. “We got up at about 4.30am one morning so we could see the sunrise coming over the Wall. That was my highlight of the trip – it was amazing.” Tim set off for China on 18th

one of the Wonders of the World. He added: “I missed my family though whilst I was out there but I got to Skype them a couple of times during the trip which was great and got me through it.” Loren Slade, Events Fundraiser at Royal Liverpool Broadgreen University Hospitals, said: “It’s great to see another fantastic member of staff supporting our new appeal. We are working hard to raise much needed funds for our new 40-bed critical care unit, so every penny Tim raises will take us one step closer to having the very best equipment in this unit.” Tim is still seeking sponsors and you can sponsor Tim online at: http://www.justgiving.com/Tim-Dwyer or text TIMD82 and the amount you wish to donate in £’s to 70070.

A shop on Bold Street that has been open for thirty years has been given the title of ‘Independent business of the year’ throughout the whole of Merseyside. Matta’s international food store is a family- run business and stocks food from all over the world. It was awarded not only the title of independence, but also a £15,000 prize. The awards ceremony was held at the Titanic Hotel at Stanley dock on the evening of Thursday the second of October, which was sponsored by the law firm Morecrofts. Dalip Matta 45, told Liverpool Life: “It was a shock winning the award, I think one thing that helped us gain recognition is the fact that we have been in this business for so long, it was our thirtieth birthday this year also and with us being a strong family business.” The shop’s amenities vary from herbs and spices to dried fish, oils, pickles, coffees, beans, lentils, pulses and olives. It is also a popular place for vegan, vegetarian and organic foods and for people who suffer with dietry requirements. He added: “I think independent businesses are very important, for the identity of Liverpool, we do need more independent shops.”

WINNER: Deepak Matta

Alder Prime Minister’s ‘broken Hey seeks promises’ cause NHS strike funds By IMOGEN SWEENEY

Nurses and health professionals will be going on strike next week following David Cameron’s broken promises on the NHS. Members of the health union, Unite, have voted to take action against the government’s NHS pay policy and working conditions. The four hour strike will be working to rule that hospital staff should only be working contracted hours and taking break entitlements, as well as ambulance staff imposing an overtime ban. Staff at the Royal Liverpool hospital will be participating in the strike after 62% of Unite members voted in favour. Jamie Murphy, Senior communications officer for Royal Liverpool Hospital said: “We have set plans in place to deal with less staff on the day. “We know it will be a task but we are certain we can handle it.” Unite head of health Rachael Maskell said: “One of

By JAMES BUSBY

VOWS: Cameron accused over NHS

his (Cameron) most destructive actions has been how he and his health secretary Jeremy Hunt have targeted NHS staff to bear the brunt of the austerity measures. Our members have seen their incomes fall by up to 15 per cent in real terms since May 2010.” Since Jeremy Hunt’s decision to reject the recommendation of one per cent for all workers meant that only those at the top of their band pay received the increase in April. She added: “An estimated 50 per cent of the NHS workforce

had to rely on their annual incremental increase, which is not necessarily guaranteed.” Miss Maskell now hopes to achieve three objectives after taking strike action. She said: “We want to get the one per cent rise paid to all 1.3 million NHS staff, respect future Pay Review Body recommendations and obtain the ‘living wage’ to the 40,000 NHS staff being currently paid below that level.” Unite will be joining other health unions in making this major stand on pay next Monday morning.

Alder Hey Children’s Hospital is seeking funds for a brand new building- Alder Hey in the Park – to make it the pride and joy of Merseyside. The new building will treat many of the city’s children, ensuring they get the best possible outcome from their treatment. The new hospital is due to open next September, and needs to raise the vital £30m to fund life-saving medical equipment and research that children desperately need. Clare White, director of charities at Alder Hey, told the Liverpool Echo: “We want to provide the very latest and best equipment and systems which will stand the test of time. “This is THE moment – we won’t have this chance for another 100 years. That’s our rallying cry. In the words of Bob Geldof, we need your money and we need it NOW!”

Pride Of Britain Awards: Page 5

Life|News|5

St George’s Hall is feeling a little blue 50, though there are some By GEORGIE WHITWORTH of cases where patients as young as The public will see Liverpool’s St George’s Hall in a new light this evening as it raises awareness for Trigeminal Neuralgia. From dusk until ten pm tonight, October 7th, the hall will be bathed in steel blue light as part of the “Light up Teal” 2nd Annual International Trigeminal Neuralgia Awareness Day to support campaigners and sufferers of the little-known disease. Trigeminal neuralgia (TN or TGN) is a neuropathic disorder which causes intense pain in the face, deriving from the trigeminal nerve. A spokesperson from the Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK (TNA UK) said: “TNA UK is delighted that St George’s Hall in Liverpool will be participating in the TN Awareness Day on 7th October and hopefully drawing attention to the rare, excruciatingly painful and extremely debilitating condition of Trigeminal Neuralgia. “We would encourage anyone looking for information or support to visit our website, www. tna.org.uk, and consider making a donation if at all possible.” The pain caused by the facial condition is likened to recurrent electric shocks lasting from a second up to 15 minutes or even longer. The disorder is most common in people over the age

three years old have been diagnosed. Due to the worldwide lack of understanding on many facial pain disorders amongst the medical profession, TN often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. Many sufferers have to have extensive dental work and visit several doctors from different specialties before being referred to a neurologist, which proves to be a lengthy process. Councillor Roz Gladden, cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “I am delighted that the City of Liverpool and St George’s Hall have got involved in raising awareness of this painful condition. “Many people are unaware that trigeminal neuralgia exists and this is an ideal way for Trigeminal Neuralgia and Me (TNNME), an international awareness group, to inform people and hopefully gain support for more funding and research to be given to those suffering from this condition. “I hope the support we offer today will go some way to ensuring their message is heard.” Other locations taking part in the rasing of awareness day include Niagara Falls, the Mid-Hudson Bridge in New York, London’s Trafalgar Square, and The University of Liverpool’s engineering building.

With only 11 weeks to go until Christmas day, a campaign has been launched to ensure no one is spending the day alone in Liverpool. The organisation White Christmas Liverpool are looking for volunteers to help offer a free dinner to those who are on their own, as well as providing Christmas gifts and festive entertainment at St George’s Hall.

Working closely with the campaign is Wavertree councillor Jake Morrison and entertainment co-ordinator Clare Johnson, who hope this year’s event, will be bigger than the last. Cllr Morrison said: “It all started last year when I heard about James Gray, an Irish man in his 80s who was facing his tenth Christmas alone. He had taken to placing newspaper adverts in a bid to get together a group of pensioners to celebrate Christmas Day with.”

Eastern promise for Phil

By IMOGEN SWEENEY

GONE BLUE: St George’s Hall will light up blue tonight

©asihgett/Flickr

There’s no need to be lonely at Christmas By IMOGEN SWEENEY

INTERNATIONAL: The Philharmonic is going East ©Damian Entwistle / Flickr

He added: “This year we want to do the same again, but on a bigger scale, at St George’s Hall, with more people able to come. Last year we organised it all in three weeks and we had around 80 guests, this year we have 11 weeks and we’re hoping for 150 or even more.” The free event which takes place on Christmas afternoon has previously had contributions from Marks and Spencer who donated Christmas puddings. Clare Johnson, who is in

charge of organising performances, is excited for the community to come together. She said: “Each week we will have a theme in the run up to the event, whether that be volunteering or entertainment.” Gogglebox stars Leon and June from Allerton, are backing the campaign acting as ambassadors. They told the Echo: “It’s sad to think of anyone being on their own on Christmas day. We are very lucky because we have a big

family, but not everyone does”. “It’s going to be a great party and wow – what a venue! St George’s Hall is one of Liverpool’s most beautiful buildings and it’s great to think that people can all get together there and have a great time”. The campaign has now inspired volunteers in London to do the same and set up a similar scheme. They are hoping to create a memorable experience for those alone at Christmas and hope nobody is alone.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will embark on their first concert tour in Japan next year. The eight date tour will begin in January with the orchestra spending 10 days in the Far East. The band led by Chief conductor, Vasily Petrenko, will first return to China this month, following their last trip when they played at the World EXPO in Shanghai in 2010. Mr Petrenko, said: “It’s a great honour to be invited back to China, and to tour Japan for the first time. We are looking forward to exploring their different musical cultures and to performing with some fantastic soloists from both countries who will bring a very high level of musicianship and performance. “ The orchestra will be joined by blind Japanese pianist Nobujuki Tsujii, who visits Liverpool in November and together will perform signature interpretations of music. He added: “We are proud to represent Liverpool on tour, taking our music-making to new international audiences and flying the flag for the great cultural life of the city.” The orchestra have performed widely throughout the UK and internationally in past tours including Switzerland, France and Spain. Sandra Parr, Liverpool Philharmonics artistic planning director is delighted to spend their 175th anniversary in Japan. She said: “Touring plays an important part in cementing the international stature of the orchestra, and it’s a great demonstration of how the Orchestra is the most mobile of the City’s cultural asset.” The orchestra is scheduled to play concerts in six different Japanese cities including two nights in capital Tokyo.

TV drama crew sets up ﬁlming in the city By STEPH BEWLEY

Actors Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy were spotted on the streets of Liverpool this summer - and now we finally know the reason why. TV drama Peaky Blinders has made a return to the small screen, with key scenes being filmed in the city. Liverpool passers-by watched the antique cars and vintage fashion dress come to life back in May 2014 as the production team pulled out all the stops to create the perfect sequel series for the hit show. Assistant Mayor and Cabinet Member responsible for the Liverpool Film Office Councillor Wendy Simon said: “We’re delighted Peaky Blinders is back on our screens after filming once again in Liverpool. “The feedback we received from the Peaky Blinders team was overwhelmingly positive,

and clearly their experience not only of the city but of our dedicated Film Office made it a simple decision for them to film on location here again. “Liverpool is one of the most filmed cities in the UK outside of London, and 2014 has seen a real boom in the number of projects taking place here - Foyles War, Tubby and Enid and Cilla to name a few. “These really are exciting times, and we look forward to welcoming more top-class productions in the near future.” Falkner Square, off Canning Street fell victim to a controlled explosion a few months back, setting scenes for Thursday night’s big return of the show on BBC2. The 1920’s show - supposedly set in Birmingham - tells the story of the Peaky Blinders crime gang named after their practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps.

Tune in to our weekly podcast at IN ACTION: Crew ﬂming in Liverpool ©EricTheFish/Flcikr With locations including Stanley Dock, Powis Street and Rodney Street, the second series kicked off with the Shelby family

attempting to expand their criminal empire beyond the Midlands. The second installment of the

<www.audioboom.com/ jmujournalism>

Life|Focus|6

Ebba is still smiles ahead at age of 102 By MELISSA MCFARLANE

parkling frocks, flutes filled with fizz and the ruby red carpet spread out to greet over 150 of Liverpool’s most glamourous older people, at The Devonshire House Hotel to celebrate and recognise the achievements of a generation. Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson hosted the evening which included a poetry performance by Frieda Renton, a three course meal and entertainment from local comic Mickey Finn. Liverpool’s Older Peoples award show has just celebrated its second year and is supported by over 13 different organisations, including Liverpool Community NHS trust, Liverpool Mutual Homes and Home Carers Liverpool to name a few. Councillor Gerrard Woodhouse, Mayoral Leader of the Older People in Liverpool, said: “We received an overwhelm-

Ceremony celebrates growing old gracefully

ing amount of nominations this year, all of them winners in their own rights. This event is not just the first in Liverpool it is the first in the whole of the UK and I am very proud.” ACSIL, an amputees and carers support group which has been running for eight years on Queens Road, was nominated for The Outstanding Older Person’s Agency Award. Chairman Bobby Hodgson, a 74-year-old man from Walton, shared some advice for older members of the community. “Get out of the house, come along to join a group and enjoy yourselves, there is nothing worse than staring at the four walls. Your community has much to offer.”

Bobby, who has worked as a removal man for most of his life, lost both of his legs in an accident over 25 years ago and is now a very proud and active representative of ACSIL.

ost and comedian Ricky Tomlinson, said: “Without these people who made sacrifices in the past we would not be living the lifestyles we have now –and the Older Peoples Awards is just a way of saying thank you and we haven’t forgotten you.” The oldest attendee of the evening was 102 years-old woman Ethel Courtliff, who prefers to be called “Ebba”. She had a clear view of the famous comedian on stage and said: “It has been

wonderful; I’ve really enjoyed the night. I met Ricky three years ago and he is lovely.” Ebba was supported by her two carers, Sheila Baccino and Rita Jones who are sisters and have been looking after her for over 15 years. Later on that evening she won Ricky Tomlinson’s and the Cabaret Club’s new, special category award, ‘The Smile Award’ which was introduced in April. Event organiser, Karen Cox who is also coordinator of housing group LMH, was excited to see her ideas come together again. She said: “The event has grown in strength, there are more people, the prizes are greater and older people are receiving the recognition they deserve. We want to extend our boundaries to the whole of Merseyside. She added: “Next year we want to call out for new sponsorships. We hope there will be loads of new firms willing to donate more money to us for this wonderful cause!”

‘Without these people who made sacriﬁces in the past we would not be living the lifestyles we have now’

HAPPY: Ethel “Ebba” Courtliff poses with her two carers of 15 years, Sheila Baccino and Rita Jones after receiving her award. LEFT: People enjoying their dinner, entertainment and ceremony.

‘I love Liverpool and the Liverpool people’ By KATIE DODSON

AWARD: Ricky and his wife Rita holding the award. Picture from JMU Journalism.

Ricky Tomlinson is best known for his roles on Brookside and The Royle Family, but there’s much more to the funny man that appears on television. Ricky was awarded the Freedom of Liverpool on Monday evening by Lord Mayor Erica Kemp for his charity work, continuous fight for justice and entertainment over the years. Ricky told JMU Journalism what the award meant to him: “I’m overwhelmed. I’m deeply delighted and chuffed really. It hasn’t sunk in yet. I’ve had loads of awards for acting and stuff like that even for writing books, but this is a bit more special.” The 75-year-old Liverpudlian spends a lot of his spare time raising awareness and donating to various charities.

City honours star with coveted Freedom of Liverpool award In 2010 it was revealed an ‘Eric Tomlinson’ donated a generous £1m to the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in 2008. However, humble Ricky credits his wife, Rita for her help with the charity work. He told the crowd: “I don’t know if we have £1, £100 or £100,000 in the bank. I don’t care. All I need is Rita, I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.” Ricky holds on to his roots with a firm grasp and has stayed in Liverpool where he grew up. He told JMU Journalism: “I get asked time and time again “how come you don’t live in London?” but London’s got nothing I want. I’ve got everything I want here, family friends, my work and my grandkids. I love

Liverpool and I love the Liverpool people.” Rita, Ricky’s wife claims her husband is always last-minute and she has to lay his suits out for him with notes in the pockets with which event it they’re each for. She supports his decision to stay in the North, saying: “It’s more work for Ricky because he has to commute a lot more, he does a lot of travelling. I feel safe here in Liverpool. London just doesn’t do it for us.” Sue Johnston who played Ricky’s on-screen wife, Barbara, in The Royle Family wrote a letter to Ricky to honour him for his award. She said: “Dear Ricky, when I heard you were being awarded for the Freedom of the City of

Liverpool I was so thrilled. I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more.” The letter went on to praise Ricky for his generosity with time, money and work in the city and his love for Liverpool describing him as a “remarkable man”. The room was full of laughter and joy as Sue joked about his character on the classic show. She said: “You created one of televisions greatest characters; Jim Royle. He was lazy, shocking and sometimes vulgar. But he was so loveable, and there was no acting required!” Ricky’s favourite place in Liverpool is the new waterfront. He told us: “It’s beautiful. The new buildings are fabulous and so are the old ones. It’s a great city.”

Life|Arts|7

Liverpool

Life

JET-SETTING SUCCESS H

MELISSA McFARLANE talks to JMU Journalism graduate Ollie Barstow

aving jetted back from a weekend of motorsports in France and with a 5am flight to Russia booked for the following day, is it any wonder LJMU success story and 2008 graduate Ollie Barstow is buzzed about his week ahead? As the 28-yearold touches base with Liverpool Life to share with the undergraduates some worldly, post-university advice. Originally from Suffolk but now a globe-trotting reporter for the second most popular motorsports website in the world, Ollie told Liverpool Life that it is not always the best laid plans that work out in the end. He said: “I originally planned to go to Sheffield but when I didn’t get through it wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, I knew I wanted to study in the North -West – there is something lyrical about it and I relished the chance to go to Liverpool it was a city I had never been to before and in the end it was the right decision for me.” From a young age Ollie had keen eye for news much to his family’s annoyance on a Saturday morning. “When I was a kid I would wake up ridiculously early and go downstairs to watch the . if anything important had happened, as I grew older I

Theatre Liverpool Empire Following on from The Lion King, The Liverpool Empire is to host Wicked, yet another mammoth musical. The story is based on Gregory Maguire’s book The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West and is the 10th longest running show in the West End. It’s showing until October 11 with tickets from £10.

Grad Watch s of 2008 Clas

found that I got a real buzz out of being the first person to tell the story - And I still do.” Ollie told Liverpool Life that the two most important things that journalism students from first to third year need are contact and experience. He said: “Contacts are important right from the beginning as you never know when you will need them, definitely pick up business cards wherever you go! Today there is so many websites you can write for and get published on and once you’ve gained that it will look fantastic on your CV.” As only the second person in his family to ever go to university, Ollie urges students to take the plunge. “I would recommend university to young people, however I would tell them to temper it with experience. Personally I know that although my degree has helped me open doors, my work experience in the has effectively pushed them open essentially – and its valuable, you don’t realise how much you have pick up from working, whether it be doing a bit of weekend work or doing some free work, it’s all about getting the experience.” Ollie was one of the lucky ones upon leaving university and was offered three jobs immediately after graduation, however it was not all plain sailing from then onwards.

SUCCESS: Ollie on his graduation 2008 © Ollie Barstow “Unfortunately the job I did take didn’t work out and I was made redundant about year later. Then I did a lot of freelance stuff which was difficult, as you rely a lot on your reputation when you work as a freelancer – and as I hadn’t been in the industry that long, I didn’t really have one.” Now as editor of motorsports news website Crash. net Ollie has interviewed candidates for a job to work alongside him on the team. He says there is a stark difference between what he learnt on the LJMU journalism pro-

gram compared to what other journalism courses offer across the country.

THUMBS UP: Ollie at The Circuit de Catalunya at Barcelona Spain

llie said: “A lot of people who I have spoken to have come in with journalism degrees and when I have asked them what their degree has entailed, I shocked when more than half of them said they haven’t done any interviewing or hands on reporting experience, which are really simple skills that every journalism course should be teaching.” For someone who felt like

the first few years of his professional life went past in a whirlwind of opportunity, Ollie is adamant that he wants to remain in the motorsports media industry. “In three years’ time I would like to see myself where I am now – but better. I don’t expect The Sun or The Mirror to be knocking on my door but I want the people in the motorsports media to know who I am and respect what I am doing.

Critics’ Choice

Film

Gone Girl Based on a thriller novel which after release made the New York Times Best Seller list, ‘Gone Girl’ is one of most anticipated movies of the year. Ben Affleck plays the grieving husband but becomes a potential suspect after his wife goes missing. The film is showing at cinemas throughout the city.

Arts

Lady Lever Art Gallery Exciting news for Downton Abbey fans as outfits from the ITV drama are set to go on display at the Lady Lever Art Gallery. The Style from the Small Screen exhibition is opening up on October 10 and will feature 10 costumes from the show alongside six other historical outfits from the National Museums Liverpool’s own collection. The exhibition is free to attend.

Music

One Republic Echo Arena Fresh from a sold out shows in March, One Republic are bringing their latest tour to Liverpool Echo Arena on October 21. The American pop rock band wrote their latest album ‘Native’ on their travels around Europe and America. Tickets for the tour start at £33.

“My next adventure is Russia where I am flying to tomorrow morning, they are hosting their first ever formula one in Sochi Where the 2012 Winter Olympics were held it’s a completely new event, I don’t know what to expect and I have never been to Russia before.” If he finds time from his work this week, he may even send us a postcard – from Russia with love.

Events Paul Hollywood British baking live Paul Hollywood is taking baking on tour with a live show at the Echo Arena Auditorium. The Great British Bake Off critic is set for two shows on November 16 at 2:30PM and 8PM having played to over 30,000 people on his first tour ‘Get your Bake on’. On sale now, tickets cost £32 and can be purchased online.

Life|Nightlife|8

Eight nights a week The Beatles may have been working eight days a week, but here’s the Liverpool Life guide to partying all week long ... and beyond!

Sunday - Popworld

Saturday - Ruby Sky

Cheesy music at its finest. Cocktails and drinks at student prices whilst jigging away to ‘C’est La Vie.’ With it being situated right beside O’Neill’s pub, a lot of Pop World’s customers are drunk Irish students having a great time. Wood St.

Right in the centre of Concert Square, Ruby Sky provides a different experience. It has provided guest appearances from Geordie Shore’s Holly Hagan, TOWIE’s Joey Essex and BGT’s Loveable Rogues. Wood St.

Friday - Baa Baa

Monday - The Razz The self-proclaimed ‘dingy, smelly, slippy place’ may look like an old man’s pub upstairs, but when you climb down the uneven steps to the bottom floor you’re greeted by a cave-like club which is always packed full of drunk students full of cheap tinnies. Seel St.

Providing a retro-style atmosphere with robots and chemistry sets plastered on the brick walls. Really cheap concoctions of shots provided in test tubes and beakers to make you feel like you’re a lab rat in an experiment. Fleet St.

The L iv

Tuesday - Bumper

to the be ide

ool Life g p r u e

Thursday - Garlands

nights in to st

Dirty Antics. Always has a quirky sign out the front, usually giving off about not being to blame for you failing your exams. Really cheap drinks with a funky retro soundtrack, old school radios and TVs behind the bar. Hardman St.

Wednesday - Med

Concert Square is deserted on a Wednesday night, as everyone has packed into Med’s three thousand capacity building. With three rooms of great music, it’s no wonder it’s been the go-to place on Wednesday nights for years. Wolstenholme Square.

The main club in Liverpool for house, electro and dubstep. Two floors and four rooms of music. Famous £1 shots and drinks and free popcorn if you’re lucky. Eberle St.

Wednesday - Levels

The ‘new kids on the block’ bring the best deals on drinks for Wednesday nights. Level provides three floors and six rooms of music for the party-goers wanting a change from Med. Fleet St.

Words: BRADD CHAMBERS

New kids on the block set to threaten the old guard A little over a month ago Concert Square’s brand new nightclub ‘Level’ opened its doors to the general public. Thousands of students have flocked to the three floor club since its opening, being provided seven bars and six rooms of music to keep them drinking and dancing until 4am. A spokesperson for Level said: “It’s been a great success, obviously we’ve had a bit of teething

issues, nothing strange or nothing new when you open a new venue, especially one of this size, but we’re really happy with how it’s gone.” The club has been packed on the weekends, with the residents of Liverpool having a good time after the hard weeks labour, but the club has also seen massive crowds on Wednesdays as well. Everyone knows that if you

venture into Concert Square on a Wednesday night you will find little or no life, despite club promoters’ best efforts. Wednesday nights have been devoted to the infamous mid-week ‘Medication’ or ‘Mednesdays’ as they’re called. ‘Med Wed’ has been the go-to place for years, with three rooms of music and special appearances from acts such as guest DJ Danny Howard.

When asked how they felt about being the ‘new kids on the block’ and whether they feel like they’re taking attention away from Med, they modestly replied: “We just provide an alternative option from Med. We’re not going after Medication’s business or trying to do anything like that. We felt like it was the right time to provide a different option for students on Wednesday nights.”

Level has seen a stampede of students through its doors since opening, including guest appearances from number one artist Sigma and Made in Chelsea stars Jamie Laing and Spencer Matthews. With a massive 2,600 capacity, the abandoned venue had been closed off from the public for years. Many students probably didn’t even notice it in passing from the main square to a late

night in Envi. Teams have worked for months in preparation for the opening, forking out on LED walls, massive sound systems and a beautiful court yard, to prove to their customers that they offer more than a fresh coat of paint and a name change. The spokesperson said: “We just want to keep moving forward and giving Liverpool a good option.”

Life|Entertainment|9

Soapstars in the saddle Amy Nicholson reports on Nikki Anderson’s attempt to raise £25,000 with the Biking Beauties

ollyoaks actress Nikki Sanderson, fresh from landing two soap awards turned her talents to fundraising in Liverpool to support children with life threatening diseases - and she enlisted the help of the other stars from the channel 4 soap. Nikki and her friends hosted a charity event at Relish Bistro on Rose Lane and was joined by her on screen cast mates including Jennifer Metcalfe (Mercedes Mcqueen) and Stephanie Davis (Sinead Rosoe). Nikki, who won best actress and storyline for her role as domestic violence victim Maxine Minniver, was overwhelmed by her win. She said: “I’m absolutely over the moon. It’s just

phenomenal! For someone who speaks a lot I went very quiet for a couple of minutes and then I cried my eyes out and had a cheeky glass of Prosecco!”

The 30-year-old won the award for her ongoing storyline with on screen husband Jeremy Sheffield, who plays wife beater Patrick Blake. Nikki is about to take part

in a grueling 417 mile bike ride from Vietnam to Cambodia to help raise money for the ‘When You Wish Upon A Star’ charity. Nikki said: “There’s going to be some very sore bums by the time that we get to the finish line.” She will be joined by her friends Natalie Turner, 31, (Barclays bank) and Jessica Lomas, 32, (works in HR) who together are known as the ‘Bury Biking Beauties’ and have already raised a massive £20,000 for the charity. “I am a little bit nervous for the hills I just can’t do them!” Nikki said. The night raised £600 for the charity and the girls hope to raise another £5,000 before they set off on their five day cycle from Vietnam on the 27th October. Nikki said: “All of the money that we’re raising is going to granting the kids wishes. Some of the kids are really poorly and it’s their final wish. “It’s

an amazing charity and it’s not government funding so it relies on donations.”

Above: Bury’s Biking Beautie’s celebrating their success so far

Right: Nikki Anderson is overwhelmed with the support she has received

‘It’s an amazing charity and it’s not government funded so it relies on donations’

Review - From YouTube to headline tours    

Music The Vamps Echo Arena Star Rating 

Starting out and building a loyal fan base from their YouTube covers, the four piece indie band have continued to grow steadily. Their rise has led them to support the likes of McFly and Taylor Swift in recent times, all before releasing their debut single

By KALTUN ABDILLAHI ‘Can We Dance’ which became a hit record with its youthful yet catchy lyrics. Based in a genre which has branded One Direction as the biggest boy-band ever, The Vamps have some fearsome

competition. But with a building profile, a trio of top three singles and their first ever album later; The Vamps have recently endeavoured on their own UK headline tour which came to Liverpool Echo arena on the weekend. Formed in early 2012 thanks to guitarist James McVey, 20, the rest of the band members which consists of singer Bradley Simpson, 19, drummer Tristan Evans, 19 and the youngest of the group bassist Connor Ball, 18, found one another via their YouTube channels. Their first ever arena show, they

opened the concert in Liverpool with crowd favourite ‘Wild Heart’ and the boys made sure they took it back to where it all started on the night as they sang a YouTube medley of some of the covers they had done. As the end of the show neared, in spectacular fashion The Vamps rounded off with big album tune ‘Risk It All’ with the crowd singing out, confetti, lights-it had everything an entertaining pop concert should have. Not falling flat as a concert but with the ability to play their own instruments and an evident tal-

The Vamps performing at the Echo Arena ent as musicians. The Vamps can put on a bigger show which means we have yet

to see the best from this young foursome running riot as teenage music stars.

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Hodgson’s injury headaches By MICHAEL GLYNN Six Merseyside players were fit enough to join up with the England squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers, including Adam Lallana and Jordan Henderson - Liverpool’s match-winners in Saturday’s 2-1 win against West Brom at Anfield. Raheem Sterling, Rickie Lambert, Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines complete the group of Liverpool based players who could feature against minnows San Marino on Thursday and Estonia on Sunday. However, John Stones became the latest victim of Everton’s recent injury crisis as he was stretchered off with ankle ligament damage in Everton’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday. Everton manager Roberto Martinez said: “It will be at least a few weeks [until he recovers]. It is such a massive blow because he plays with an incredible arrogance. We will assess him in the next 48 hours.” Everton’s other young English talent Ross Barkley has been out since August with a similar injury. Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge also missed out despite being close to a return. He was declared not fit enough for the internationals by club boss Brendan Rodgers before Roy Hodgson announced his squad.

Roby named Man of Steel

St Helens star James Roby has been nominated for the 2014 Rugby League Man of Steel award ahead of the Old Trafford showdown with Wigan in the Super League Grand Final this Saturday. The prop has been an integral part of the Saints side, who have had to deal with injuries to key players at various times throughout the season but still kept winning. They head into the final as underdogs but Roby told the Liverpool Echo: “We’re not coming to make the numbers up; we’re coming for the trophy.”

King Rover to join sporting legends By JOSH HANDSCOMB Work has begun on a tribute to the former Tranmere manager Johnny King as a result of a major fundraising effort by the club’s supporters. Liverpool artist Tom Murphy, the man responsible for the sculpture of iconic statues of Bill Shankly at Anfield and Dixie Dean at Goodison Park, has spent the last three months crafting the model. Johnny King first arrived at Tranmere in 1960 making 240 appearances before beginning two spells as manager that cemented his place as a club legend. He now joins the collection of local sporting heroes to have been immortalised as sculptures in notable areas around the city, and is to be cast in bronze ahead of his unveiling at Prenton Park on November 1st. In July, an announcement was made by the Tranmere Rovers Trust, that for a price of £60 per person, fans could get their names engraved at the bottom of the statue. Mark Randles, secretary of the Tranmere Rovers Trust, revealed that the public response was overwhelming. So overwhelming in fact, that over 400 fans paid for their names to be engraved on the base of the statue. Randles, who was born and brought up in Birkenhead, went to his first Rovers match in 1967, and has watched every home and away game ever since, having had a season ticket since 1987. “Not one company has put money into the project, everything was raised by individual donations from sup-

HEROES: Dixie Dean, above, © Steve Edwards/Creative Commons/Flickr and Bill Shankly, right, © Alex Jilitsky/Creative Commons/Flickr porters,” he said. “I’m made up. It is an absolute honour to have a statue.” The fundraising began last April at Hulme Hall in Port Sunlight, in an event attended by players and legends including Johnny King himself as well as featured comedy from scouse impressionist Darren Farley. Chairman of the Trust Ben Harrison said: “We’re very excited about finally unveiling the maquette. “All the Trust board have been thrilled to see the results of Tom’s efforts over the last three months and we’re sure it will really create quite a buzz.”

LJMU unleash the Fury By JOSH HANDSCOMB

LJMU Fury’s Harry Routledge has shown his excitement ahead of their first pre-season game after multiple summer success stories. Fury’s offensive co-ordinator has spent the summer playing for Swedish team, Carlstadt Crusaders and scored 2 touchdowns in the SM Guld Final, which crowned the Crusaders national champions of Sweden. Wide receiver Kieran Etoria-King said: “Harry has brought back a lot of new innovative ideas for plays and formation concepts as well as an attacking philosophy that we’re keeping under our hats!”

Other Fury personnel including head coach Craig Pennington, offensive lineman Martin Donohue, wide receiver Alex Eager and quarter back Liam Holebrook, also enjoyed national championship success with Merseyside Nighthawks in September. The Nighthawks completed a highly impressive unbeaten season with a 4134 overtime win against Edinburgh Wolves in the British American Football National League Final. Holebrook, who has played receiver and field goal kicker since taking up the sport last September, was Fury’s highest scoring player last season. Etoria-King is confident that Fury are making good preparation for the sea-

son to come, despite having new players within the team. He said: “The new players are adjusting well. Most of them have never played before. “They are improving each session and we are excited about the way we are adjusting after losing 4 key players to graduation this year.” The Liverpool John Moores University side take on the Runcorn outfit, Halton Spartans, at Childwall Sports College this Sunday in preparation for their first league game against Bangor University on 8th November. • Kick-off will be at 1pm. Entrance is free

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Team’s sack and hire By MICHAEL GLYNN

Southport have reappointed Gary Brabin as their new manager after the sacking of Martin Foyle following Saturday’s 5-2 thrashing at home by Woking. The defeat saw them fall into the Vanarama Conference relegation zone and they have acted quickly to bring back former manager Brabin, who told reporters at the club: “I’m delighted to be back here at Southport FC and am very impressed with the fantastic training facilities on offer at Edge Hill. I know all the people here at the club, especially Chairman Charlie Clapham and I am looking forward to meeting the supporters again.” A statement by the board on Sunday night confirmed Foyle and his assistant Andy Porter had left the Conference club, it stated: “The Club would like to thank Martin and Andy for their efforts, but on this occasion it has not worked out and we both have to move on.” Brabin will start his second spell as The Sandgrounders manager – the first having been a short two-month spell in 2008 - on Tuesday night at the Merseyrail Community Stadium against Lincoln City. His last managerial job lasted a little over a year at Luton Town, who he left in March 2012. He took The Hatters within a penalty shootout of returning to the Football League in the 2011 Conference Premier Playoff Final. He and his assistant Paul Carden took training shortly after their appointment to allow as much preparation time as possible with their new team before the crucial game. Lincoln City are currently in 15th on 17 points, six points ahead of Southport who are 21st and three points away from safety.

Wellens’ desire to not dwell on past By DANIEL WRIGHT

The build-up is underway for St Helens as they prepare for Saturday’s Super League Grand Final clash against local rivals Wigan. The Saints, who have been unusually bereft of trophies in recent years, overcame Castleford Tigers and the Catalan Dragons en route to the final, which will be held in front of around 75,000 fans at Old Trafford. Nathan Brown’s side stand on the cusp of winning their first piece of silverware since defeating Hull in the 2008 Challenge Cup final, having lost the last five finals they have been involved in. However, Saints captain Paul Wellens spoke live on Sky Sports about his team’s desire not to dwell on previous disappointments. “Since moving in to our new home at Langtree Park we’ve been very much about looking forward as a club, so the focus is purely on this weekend and hopefully kick-starting a new era of success for this club.”

Smith steps closer to Groves bout By MATTHEW JUDGE Callum Smith enhanced his burgeoning reputation and moved a step closer to a domestic bout with George Groves after his comprehensive KO win over Rafael Sosa Pintos in Leeds on Saturday night. The Liverpudlian, who was competing in his 14th career clash since turning professional, swept the floor with the Uruguayan journeyman by landing a powerful right hand to record his 11th knockout win inside three rounds. Smith, whose older brothers,

Paul, Stephen and Liam, all compete in boxing, will now face Serbian star Nikola Sjekloca at the Echo Arena in his hometown on November 22, on the undercard of Scouse cruiserweight Tony Bellew’s headline rematch with Nathan Cleverly. The 24-year-old will meet the former world title challenger in a WBC super-middleweight title eliminator, which could see Smith cross paths with fellow English fighter George Groves in early 2015 if he emerges victorious. Groves, who beat Callum’s brother Paul back in 2011, is on

course to face WBC super-middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell after becoming the mandatory challenger with a points win over Christopher Rebrasse in September. Should Smith get past Sjekloca next month and Groves scoops the belt, the two talented stars will then be set to lock horns, with Liverpool FC’S Anfield stadium already being mooted as a potential venue. Meanwhile, Bellew’s rematch with Cleverly is nearly sold out. There was an increase in demand for tickets following their heated press conference.

By JOSH HANDSCOMB

Tranmere Rovers are in search of a win tonight after a disappointing start to the season. The Birkenhead side will face Carlisle for the second time in 10 days, in the second round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy at Prenton Park. Tranmere boss, Rob Edwards, is under increasing pressure from some fans after banners reading ‘Edwards Out’ were displayed at their fixture against Carlisle last month and again at their 2-0 defeat away at Bury last weekend. Tranmere Fan Mark Haldon, said: “[Edwards is] quite clearly deluded as well as out of his depth!” Edwards is hoping for a change in fortune tonight, as the team face their 7th match without a win. Carlisle remain below Tranmere in the League Two table on goal difference but it was less than two weeks ago that the Cumbrian side gained their first win of the season, against

Chester city face Aldershot at the Deva Stadium tonight (Tuesday) as they look to continue their current decent form that has seen them claim 10 points from the last five games. The Seals currently sit 16th in the Vanarama Conference, just two points and two places behind Aldershot. They have won three of the last five games to drag themselves out of the relegation zone following a poor start of just seven points in the first nine games. Manager Steve Burr in an interview after the game said: “We’re improving;

City lead race for Reus By Lauren Pulford

Tranmere in search Chester looking to continue good form against Aldershot By MICHAEL GLYNN of glory we’ve had a good September and we want to kick on now in October. We go again on Tuesday and try and get the three points.” They took an early lead in their last game against Welling United but had to settle for a home draw due to a 94th minute equaliser, despite taking an early lead in the 10th minute through midfielder Craig Mahon. Aldershot come off the back of a much needed win at home to Alfreton Town to secure only their second win in eight. Aldershot have disappointed this season and are two places above Chester in the table but

Saints managed to see off the challenge of Catalan Dragons 30 - 12 in the semi-final at Langtree, to set up an enticing encounter with the old enemy Wigan Warriors. Shaun Wane’s team managed a narrow victory against Warrington Wolves to book their own place in the final and Wellens commented that although there is no love lost between the two teams there is also mutual respect. “They’re an excellent side,” he said. “I think they’ve shown that over and over again in recent seasons so we’re preparing for Wigan to be at their best come Saturday so we will have to be at ours.” Both teams prevailed against each other in their two other Super League meetings this season, however Saturday should prove to be the ultimate decider for both clubs. It is Brown’s last match in Super League as he prepares to take his young family back to Australia after securing a release from the last 12 months of his contract.

SHOWDOWN: Groves

took confidence from a 2-0 win over Alfreton Town last time out. A win for the Blues would take them above Andy Scott’s men in the table and could move them closer to the top four than the bottom four. Chester have taken 10 points from their last five matches and even allowing for the weekend’s poor showing, there has been a definite improvement and Burr hopes that will continue. He added: “We know how difficult it’s going to be against Aldershot, they are a decent side but we’ll be ready for them. “All the teams in this division are strong.”

Manchester City are out in front in the race for German star Marco Reus. Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United have all shown interest in Borussia Dortmund’s coveted attacking midfielder. However, reports claim that City boss Manuel Pellegrini has made an official enquiry for the Dortmund player and has asked for regular updates on his availability. Liverpool may have shown their interest for Reus too early, missing out on the £20 million release clause in the German International’s contract. The pressure will be building as the competition force deals that could possibly be above the release clause.

Liverpool

LifeSPORT

PURVIS SHINES

07- October 2014

CROSBY GYMNAST IMPRESSES IN CHINA

By LAUREN PULFORD

SUCCESS: Daniel Purvis

Merseyside gymnast Daniel Purvis has helped lead Great Britain to 4th in today’s 2014 World Championships in Nanning, China. Purvis is an international elite artistic gymnast and 3-time British all-around champion in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics. The 23-year-old, who trains at Southport YMCA, scored an allaround score of 88.706 points after competing on all six apparatus in day one of the two-day men’s team qualification. Purvis’ scoring helped the Great Britain men’s team come in second spot behind China after day one of the two-day men’s team qualification. He said to Team GB’s website: “It was all about competing the best routines for the team and

I felt I did that, making the allaround is a massive bonus.” However, the GB team failed to keep this spot and came in fourth in the overall two-day qualifying competition falling behind China, Japan and the USA. In response to this fall back Purvis said: “As a team we are really well prepared and that showed as everyone made a big contribution. “Having said that, we know we can do even better and with a clean start in the team finals we’ll all be going out there to chase a medal for GB.” Today’s performance has seen the GB team work hard to redeem themselves and gain great scorings over each apparatus. Purvis was the first to perform on the pommel and scored a high 14.5. British Gymnastics sent a mes-

sage on twitter: “Purvis first up for GB on pommel, he was our top all-around scorer in quails and gets GB off to superb start 14.5 #topjob”. Team GB seemed to bounce back and forth from being in a bronze medal position, after two of the six apparatus, to a silver medal position at the half way mark. However, the team were unable to stick to a silver medal position and came 4th in the Championship. All in all the hard work really paid off, putting GB at their best position ever. This was not lost on the British Gymnastics team, who sent out a tweet which read: “It is World Championship 4th for Great Britain, our greatest ever World team result! #proud #teamGB #Nanning”

Liverpool Ladies looking forward By ANGHARAD MILLINGTON AND DANIEL WRIGHT Exciting times lie ahead for Liverpool Ladies as they compete in their first ever UEFA Women’s Champions League tie tomorrow against Swedish side Linkopings. In sharp contrast to the fortunes of their relegated local rivals Everton Ladies, who again recorded a 5-2 loss at Chelsea on Sunday, the WSL champions are preparing for their first outing in Europe’s elite competition. The Select Security Stadium in Widnes will play host to the first leg of the tie and Gemma Bonner will make history as she becomes the first Reds captain to lead the side out in a European game. She said: “It will personally be a very proud moment for me being the first captain for Liverpool Ladies in the Champions League.” “We have waited a long time to play in the competition since qualifying and it will be a great test for us as a squad against one of the top teams in Europe.”

The defender will be hoping her team make a solid start to the campaign following their somewhat inconsistent domestic form this season and she has refused to underestimate their Swedish opposition. “We expect a really tough game as Linkopings are an excellent team with experience of playing in the competition. Hopefully we can play to our potential to take a pos itive result to Sweden for the second leg,” she said. “This year we have learnt a lot and hopefully those experiences we have had in the league and the character we have will help us progress in the Champions League.” As Matt Beard’s side make their debut on the European scene in the Round of 32 of the competition, Bonner also revealed the impact that the club’s male counterparts have had on their approach, as Brendan Rodgers’ team returned to the Champions League after a five year absence. The skipper added: “We can take great inspiration from how well they played last season and the fact they are back in the Cham

INJURY HEADACHE FOR HODGSON p10

CITY LEAD RACE FOR REUS p11

CUP CLASH: Liverpool Ladies look ahead to European match pions League. Hopefully we can mimic their opening game with Ludogorets by winning our game.” Everton, on the other hand, will be preparing for life in the WSL second division after crashing out of the league following last week’s 2-0 defeat to Notts County. After a 21 year stay in the top flight Andy Spence’s team are re to their fate after failing to win a single league game this sea son, despite reaching the FA Cup Final.

Linköpings FC finished 3rd in the Damallsvenskan in 2013, behind winners FC Rosengård (formerly FC Malmö) and Tyresö FF. This season Linköpings won the Swedish Cup and are once again battling out to finish 2nd place, having suffered early season injuries. not dissimilar to Liverpool Ladies. Prior to losing their last league match 1-0 to Kristianstad DFF, Linköping had enjoyed a run of 7 wins in 8 games – including beating league champions FC

©LFC

Rosengård 3-2 away from home and recording an 8-0 win over bottom placed side Jitex BK. Nina Frausing is one to watch and will come up against her international team mate, influential Danish forward Pernille Harder. Now 22, Harder made her international debut at just 16-yearsold and scoring a hat-trick to kick-start an international career that has so far seen her capped 53 times with 26 goals.

ROVERS LEGEND TO BE HONORED p10