City issue 66 by Dominic Smith

Maritime treats bring the ‘wow’ to our waterfront

IN SI D UP E: B D UD AT G E ET

Issue 66 • February 2011

Mersey magic!

Inside your

The picture ‘Autumn in Sefton Park’ by David Case David sent us this glorious scene of Sefton Park on a peaceful Autumn day. Every issue of city features a photo taken by a reader. Why not submit your favourite Liverpool photograph to city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk? It could feature here!

Inside your 4 6

Literary city Public votes on which books, films and songs should appear on Literary Pavement at new Central Library

Radical city Exciting programme marks a century of radicalism.

COVER STORY

15 17

Around the city Decade of Health and Wellbeing launched; Liverpool Embassy opens in London; Thousands celebrate Chinese New Year.

Tel: 0151 233 3000

Safer city Safe Havens protect vulnerable people; Respect campaign helps combat ‘silent killer’; Youngsters star in road safety films.

Maritime city World-class Boat Show and return of River Festival make our waterfront the place to be in 2011.

...

Discovery city

people, places, music, sport, history...

Liverpool Discovers unearths city’s untold stories.

• City’s historic Willis Organ needs your help

Budget city

• Filmmakers flock to the city

Council chiefs talk about the tough challenges ahead for the city and answer key questions about the spending cuts.

• Looking back on 1911 Transport Strike • County Championship Cricket comes to Liverpool CC • First major Liverpool marathon for 20 years announced

PLUS...

Prepared city Emergency Planning team puts plans in place to deal with severe weather – and lets you know how you can play your part.

Don’t miss our four great competitions, with some fantastic prizes up for grabs!

Issue 66 City magazine

Literary

Your favourites set in stone Liverpudlians’ literary loves immortalised at new Central Library

UNDREDS of Liverpool residents have helped decide which classic books, films and songs should star on the city’s very own Walk of Fame.

A brand new ‘Literary Pavement’ is being created as part of the £54 million redevelopment of Liverpool Central Library and local people have been invited to air their views on what should take pride of place on it. The 22 metre-long and 4.5 metre-wide walkway will lead from William Brown Street to the entrance of the beautifully restored library, and engraved on it will be titles from world books, cinema and music – all of which can be found inside the Grade II listed building. A panel of experts from the city’s library and archive service spent months whittling down thousands of possibilities to three shortlists, which were made available on-line for local people to look at. It’s received a fantastic response, with favourite choices, comments and suggestions pouring in. The city council is expected to announce which books, songs and films have made the list in March.

The city council has also asked local people for their views on:

• A unique panel called ‘Literary Liverpool’ which will cover the back of the building.This will showcase writers who were either born in Liverpool, or lived, worked, visited or were influenced and inspired by the city.

• An area dedicated to famous quotations which will be visible from each floor of the building. There are also plans for a poetry circle and a floor-to-ceiling banner showing a timeline of Liverpool firsts. Head of Libraries, Joyce Little, said: “Work on the new Central Library is progressing really well, and our literary pavement will make the building even more special. “We want local people to be fully involved in the development of their library, so I’m delighted they’ve been able to have their say on these important features, which will be part of the city for many years to come.” Work began last autumn on the 150-yearold library, which lies within Liverpool’s UNESCO World Heritage site. It will see the full restoration of the Grade II listed parts of

the building, which date back to 1860, and the famous Hornby Library and Oak Reading Rooms will be fully open to the public for the first time. The sections behind the façade, which were built in the 1950s and 1970s following World War II bomb damage and now suffer from damp and a leaking roof, will be rebuilt to make the most of the available space. The revamped Central Library will also include a new home for the Liverpool Record Office, which will house 14km of archives and some of the city’s most historic treasures from the last 800 years - such as the original 1207 charter - in purpose built secure, climate-controlled storage. Not only will the books be showcased in spectacular surroundings, but a new children’s library will be created. There will also be state-of-the-art IT facilities which will allow young people to download music and games onto MP3 and MP4 players, with access to computers and wi-fi. It is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2013. The work is being carried out by the Inspire Partnership, which is a joint venture between Amber Infrastructure and Shepherd Construction, with architects at Austin-Smith: Lord and Cofely as providers of Facilities Management services.

• The ‘face of Liverpool’ for the new campaign, heroic foster carer Brenda Walcott, L8 4

City magazine Issue 66

www.liverpool.gov.uk

‘NOTHING COMES HOTTER THAN FOOTLOOSE’ THE DAILY MAIL

BILL KENWRIGHT

BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS

LYRICS BY TIM RICE MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

STARRING KEITH JACK TUE 29 MAR - SUN 3 APR

TUE 15 - FRI 19 MAR

MON 7 - SAT 12 MAR ‘A BREATHTAKING CELEBRATION’ THE STAGE

‘A VALENTINE TO THE POWER OF LOVE’ LA TIMES

TUE 26 - SAT 30 APR

MON 11 - SAT 16 APR ‘A TOUR DE FORCE PERFORMANCE’ THE STAGE

CHIPPENDALES FRI 4 MAR COUNT ARTHUR STRONG MON 21 MAR THAT’LL BE THE DAY SUN 27 MAR MICKY FLANAGAN THU 7 APR DAN CLARK SAT 9 APR MUSIC AND LAUGHTER SUN 10 APR

STARRING

CLAIRE SWEENEY

WED 20 - SAT 23 APR

TUE 3 - SAT 7 MAY

TICKETMASTER 0844 847 2525 LIVERPOOLEMPIRE.ORG.UK GROUPS 10+ 0844 3727272 (MON - FRI, 10AM - 6PM) *

24HRS, BKG FEES

Maritime

City’s super show sets sail

Return journey for River Festival ONE of the UK’s biggest maritime festivals is returning to Liverpool this year.

The new-look Mersey River Festival takes place in the city from 8–16 September, as part of the city’s spectacular On The Waterfront celebrations. Back in the city for the first time since 2005, the River Festival will feature a royal naval visit, historic Tall Ships and Cunard Cruise Liners, including the new Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mary 2. The waterfront will come alive with aerobatic displays, stunning street theatre, a bistro village, colourful bunting and rustic farmers market. Swing and jazz sounds from the 1930’s will belt out from the Big 6

City magazine Issue 66

Band stage – all adding to the bustling atmosphere across the Albert Dock, Pier Head and the Cruise Liner Terminal. Leader of the city council, Councillor Joe Anderson, said: “Bringing the Mersey River Festival back was a major priority for me. Since the last festival took place, our iconic waterfront has been transformed and it’s now looking more majestic than ever. I’ll be very proud to showcase it to visitors from all over the world.” This year’s Mersey River Festival is funded by the city council in partnership with European Regional Development Funding.

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Maritime It’s all go for the River Mersey at the moment, with a packed schedule of events and festivals to look forward to. All in all, it’s shaping-up to be an exciting few months for our waterfront! AN awe-inspiring event is on its way to Liverpool’s waterfront – and it’s guaranteed to float your boat!

The inaugural Liverpool Boat Show comes to the city from 29 April to 8 May. It is expected to attract around 400,000 visitors to the historic Albert Dock. The spectacular show will bring foreign naval vessels, historic Tall Ships, heritage narrowboats and steam boats, as well as two major regattas to the Mersey. Wapping Dock will feature an extraordinary aqua-theatre, while the Liverpool Comedy Festival - which has been timed to coincide with the boat show - will bring plenty of chuckles. A Sea Shanty Festival on a motorised music barge will take place in different spots at the South Docks. And visitors will be able to enjoy sailing and power boat demonstrations and try out water sports. The land-based marquees and marina pontoons will host more than two hundred exhibitors including major global boating brands such as Fairline, Sealine, Sunseeker, Princess, Bavaria, Hanse and Beneteau. Paying show visitors will have exclusive access to the Main Marina, all the land-based marquees, all the ‘have-a-go’ experiences, practical workshops and demonstrations.

They will have the waterside seats in the aqua-theatre, be able to sink a pint in the fabulous Guinness Bar, will enjoy exclusive rights to board all the Tall Ships and feature vessels in Canning Dock, and much, much more. The general public will still be able to access the Albert / Salthouse site during the Boat Show but, without a wristband, will not be able to descend to the Marina pontoons, board the Tall Ships or access the wrist-band-only marquees. The public will still be able to be part of the overall spectacle, and enjoy some of the water-based entertainments, as well as visiting the Tall Ships stationed on the Cruise Passenger Terminal, which will be open for free public viewing. During busy periods, especially on the bank holidays and weekends, public circulation around the Albert Dock and Hartley Quay may be restricted and wristband holders will have priority access during these times The show will be open from 10.30am to 8.30pm every day, apart from the final Sunday when it will close at 5.00pm. Tickets, costing from just £6 to £15, with family discounts, will allow you to enjoy it all – and are a must for all genuine yachting, sailing and watersport enthusiasts. Book via the show’s website www.liverpoolboatshow.com or by calling 0844 809 4620.

Cruise campaign on-course LIVERPOOL’S campaign for its cruise liner terminal to be granted full turnaround facilities is gathering pace.

• Mike Penning MP (right) and Cllr Anderson at the waterfront

The city council has received official letters of support from the Leaders of Manchester, Preston, Sefton, Halton, Warrington, Trafford, Knowsley and St Helens Councils. Tel: 0151 233 3000

The backing from some of the North West’s key political figures comes after Transport Minister Mike Penning visited Liverpool and agreed to look afresh at the proposals for it to become a full turnaround facility. Currently, ships are only permitted to stop off at the terminal mid-cruise, and are not allowed to start or end voyages there. Liverpool believes the lifting of this restriction would pump millions of pounds a year into the economy, making it a leading player in the thriving worldwide industry. An official consultation process to consider whether to lift the restrictions on cruise turnarounds is now being held by the Government. No decision had been made at the time we went to press.

Wonderful waterfront weekends THE On the Waterfront celebrations are set to wow visitors this year, with not one but TWO free weekends of show-stopping events.

The Mersey River Festival will be the highlight of the second On the Waterfront weekend in September (see page 6), but the festivities actually get underway in July, with the first weekend of spectacular events. The July 22-24 extravaganza will mark the 100th anniversary of one of the city’s most enduring symbols – the Liver Building. Controversial from the start, the revolutionary building was the first to use reinforced concrete. Because of its modern look, people didn’t take to it at first. One hundred years on and it is immediately recognisable and loved by those who live and visit here. On the Waterfront’s exciting ‘Made in Liverpool’ weekend will celebrate the city’s world-renowned architecture. Plans include a breathtaking aerial performance set against the backdrop of the beautiful Three Graces. And it’s not just about the city’s history - the event will give thousands of people the chance to get a first look at the brand new Museum of Liverpool, another iconic addition to the Waterfront. Issue 66 City magazine

Around the

Fostering great memories

A decade of Health

FOSTER carers in Liverpool turned authors for a day to pen their memories of looking after children.

A giant hardback book created especially for the “You Can Foster” campaign came to the Town Hall on its route across the north west, capturing foster carers’ thoughts and comments on why they chose to foster. Lord Mayor Councillor Hazel Williams said: “Our foster carers do an amazing job, opening their homes to care for youngsters. “We desperately need more of them and I was delighted to meet them and find out more about their experiences.” For more information call 0800 634 7052 or visit www.youncanfoster.org.

TEN-YEAR plan to create a happier, healthier Liverpool has been launched.

• Foster carers Esther and Stan Dawkins, Allan Bamber and Brenda Walcott sign the Big Book of Fostering with Lord Mayor Hazel Williams at Liverpool Town Hall

2020 Decade of Health and Wellbeing follows the success of the Year of Health and Wellbeing in 2010, which led to more than 2,000 people making an individual pledge to lead a healthier, happier life. Highlights included a visit from Brazilian collective AfroReggae, who gave hundreds of young people the

A warm welcome PEOPLE who go the extra mile to make Liverpool a welcoming city are to be honoured. The Ambassador Awards celebrates the unsung heroes and heroines of the tourism industry – whether it’s a receptionist who always makes sure visitors are treated to a traditional warm Scouse welcome, or a chef who makes mouth-watering meals which put the city on the culinary map. Hundreds of nominations have flooded in, and the customer service stars will be honoured at a glitzy awards ceremony in the Crowne Plaza on Wednesday 23 March, hosted by TV comedy star and DJ Neil Fitzmaurice. 8

City magazine Issue 66

Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for tourism and leisure, Councillor Wendy Simon launched the Ambassador nominations last month. Councillor Simon, said: “Liverpool is renowned for its warm welcome and this annual event showcases the very best talent we have. “Having the Ambassador Awards helps drive up standards and makes sure that anyone who spends time in the city, whether they’re shoppers, diners or theatre goers, experiences exceptionally high standards of service and leaves wanting to come back again and again.” Liverpool ONE, City Central BID and Radio City are sponsoring the ceremony.

chance to engage in high energy Brazilian drumming, and a £200,000 programme which provided funding to 46 grassroots arts organisations. Liverpool Primary Care Trust (PCT) and the city council will be working with a whole host of partners – more than 100 were involved in 2010 – towards the long term goal of a healthier city by 2020. And the decade got off to a great start, with more than 120 health and

The 12 categories are: • Reception Staff of the Year Award sponsored by Merseytravel • Waiter/Waitress of the Year Award sponsored by The Mersey Partnership • Family Friendly Staff Award sponsored by John Lewis • Young Person of the Year Award sponsored by Merseyrail • Chef / Cook of the Year Award sponsored by Livesmart • Retail Assistant of the Year Award sponsored by Grosvenor • Outstanding Customer Service Award sponsored by Liverpool Community College • Arts / Culture Staff Award sponsored by Kaleidoscope • Tourism Support - Transport and Leisure Staff Award sponsored by JET Service • Visitor / Event Assistant Award sponsored by Liverpool ONE • Bar Person of the Year Award sponsored by Business Improvement District • Unseen Hero Award sponsored by Radio City www.liverpool.gov.uk

Around the

and Wellbeing

News in brief

Free fitness fun! FAMILIES can start the new healthy decade as they mean to go on by getting down to the Fourth annual Festival of Health and Activity, on Sunday 20 March.

Lifestyles Tennis Centre in Wavertree will be buzzing with activities, from football and rugby right through to handball and golf – and it’s all free! The city council’s sports development staff will be on-hand to pass on fitness tips and there will also be a series of demos, including BMX, karate and cooking.

LIVERPOOL’S Enforcement team has announced 1,194 Fixed Penalty Notices were issued in 2010 - totalling over £76,000 in fines - for littering, dog fouling and other offences. wellbeing-themed events taking place across Liverpool in January. Councillor Roz Gladden, Liverpool’s Cabinet Member for Adult Health and Social Care, said: “Tackling some of the major health and wellbeing inequalities in this city is a major challenge which cannot be solved overnight, and requires time and commitment. “The city council is pledging to work closely with its partners to raise awareness of the small steps that people can take

which can make a big difference to their lives.” 2020 Decade of Health and Wellbeing will continue to highlight the Five Ways to Wellbeing – five simple ways to improve personal wellbeing by making small, achievable lifestyle changes. The Five Ways are Connect; Be Active, Take Notice; Keep Learning; and Give. Visit www.2020healthandwellbeing .org.uk for more information on the Decade of Health and Wellbeing.

And the work of trading standards saw 51 prosecutions relating to counterfeit goods last year. More than £7,000 was issued in fines and costs, and goods with a street value of £190,000 – including clothes, DVDS and cigarettes – were seized.

A UNIQUE exhibition revealing the innermost thoughts of 28 deaf and disabled Merseyside women has been launched. ‘Hidden HerStories’ sees the women sharing their experiences through photos and film, focusing on issues like segregation, coping with discrimination and political activism. It is touring community libraries until June. Call Natalie on 07793 877444 for more information.

THE CITY council is working with Merseyside ACME and Liverpool Vision to offer free business advice to cultural organisations.

• (l-r) Cllr Wendy Simon; Lunya sous chef Dave Upson; Chris Bliss from Liverpool ONE; and Ed Oliver, Chairman of City Central BID, launch the Ambassador Awards

Tel: 0151 233 3000

The ‘Creative Growth Initiative’, which aims to help organisations overcome tough economic times, is being led by business expert David Parrish. It is part of Culture Liverpool’s Fit for the Future programme which is bringing together organisations to develop the city’s cultural strategy. www.tss-cgi.com Issue 66 City magazine

Around the

Business expert on-board LIVERPOOL Council’s newly appointed business advisor is pledging to put enterprise at the top of the city’s agenda.

Entrepreneur David Wade-Smith has been named as the business advisor to the city council’s cabinet, a unique new role which aims to create stronger links between the council and the business community. He will provide expert business guidance to the cabinet and give local firms a voice at the heart of the Town Hall. David said: “Liverpool as a city – and as a brand – is famous all over the world, and it’s vital we capitalise on that. The public and private sector have to work as one to sell this city as a leading global destination to live and work in, to visit and to invest in.” Mr Wade-Smith played an instrumental role in the strategic development of independent retailer Wade Smith, and is the founder and Chairman of Livesmart Ltd, which provides smart cards, ticketing, loyalty and membership products.

Firms sign-up to the future UP TO 133 apprenticeships are to be created in Liverpool under a new city council-funded scheme to encourage businesses to take on new recruits.

Twenty firms have successfully applied to be part of the Liverpool Apprenticeship Scheme business grant initiative. The posts are across a wide range of professions including, joiners, electricians and computer technicians, through to accounts clerks and hospitality staff. Councillor Nick Small, the council’s cabinet member for employment and skills, said: “At a time of massive cuts, it’s more important than ever that we support our young people in gaining the skills they need to obtain employment.” The scheme is being funded by £300,000 from the city council, and apprenticeships range from 12 months to three years. 10

City magazine Issue 66

Liverpool opens London Embassy L

IVErPOOL is doing the business at the heart of the nation’s capital, with the opening of its own Embassy in London.

Located just a few minutes walk from Liverpool Street, EC2, ‘The Liverpool Embassy’ is promoting the city’s commercial and business offer and helping secure vital investment. The move follows the success of Liverpool’s presence at Shanghai World Expo 2010. The Embassy builds on the impact of the city’s Pavilion at the event, showcasing Liverpool as a competitive, international business location and presenting investment and development opportunities to investors. It opened in January at New Broad Street House - a prestigious address close to the city’s financial district – to create a high-impact awareness of the Liverpool City Region in the capital to a UK, European and International audience. Adjacent to the renowned Broadgate complex, it has easy tube access to London City and Heathrow airports. City council Leader, Councillor Joe Anderson, said: “I’m absolutely determined that, in these difficult economic times, Liverpool continues to grow, thrive and prosper. The Embassy gives us a great

opportunity to demonstrate to investors and high-profile decision makers that the new Liverpool is a competitive, international business location, a leading cultural capital and a city of opportunity which welcomes investors with open arms.” The Liverpool Embassy focuses on some of the most successful elements of Liverpool’s award-winning Shanghai Expo Pavilion, including exciting audio-visual films, conveying the city’s transformation, business-friendliness and investment opportunities. Technologies such as Touch Screens and 3D TV will also be used to fully immerse visitors in the experience and allow them to interact with the films. The project is being delivered by Liverpool City Council, working in partnership with Liverpool Vision and Downtown Liverpool in Business. The partners will be working closely with private sector companies to secure sponsorship and attract influential visitors. Initially open for three months, with a view to extending its term in London, the Liverpool Embassy will pave the way to a programme of linked and complementary initiatives aimed at attracting trade and investor interest, including a series of ‘Investment Open Days’ here in Liverpool.

Empty shops, full of art SOME of Liverpool’s High Street shops have been given an artistic makeover in an imaginative initiative.

Shops Upfront is a Culture Liverpool project which allows artists to use empty retail units for short-term exhibitions, workshops and art events, providing a platform for artists’ work and improving the look of the area. Projects so far include Liverpool Sound City’s ‘Screenadelica’ at the former Rapid Hardware store, with more than 50 acclaimed artists showcasing their work to over 10,000 people; and Bob Moyler’s ‘Bonk St Sci-fi Theatre’, a new piece of science fiction

theatre in Temple Court. Local schoolchildren were also invited to take part in a competition to create their very own superhero, with the winning designs showcased in the window of the former Lewis’ store. The programme – which aims to brighten up areas that have been facing commercial challenges and make art accessible for all - is jointly funded by the city council, the Department of Communities and Local Government and Arts Council England. Watch out for more Shops Upfront projects across the city centre in the coming months! www.liverpool.gov.uk

Around the

A One-derful future THE LIVERPOOL Embassy is one of the first major initiatives of the city’s ‘One Plan’, a new vision which aims to draw on the strengths, resources and expertise of the public and private sector to sell Liverpool nationally and internationally. • (l-r) Council Chief Executive Ged Fitzgerald; Council Leader Joe Anderson, Guy Wallis, Partner at Liverpool law firm DWF; and Chief Executive of Liverpool Vision, Max Steinberg, open the Embassy

• Adam Kenwright, 8, of Knotty Ash Primary School with his winning superhero design

Led by the city’s regeneration company Liverpool Vision, which from April will incorporate the city’s culture department, One Plan is bringing

Beatles Street shines on VISITORS to Liverpool’s world famous Mathew Street are tripping the light fantastic, following a major revamp.

A series of improvements have been carried out to boost appeal to tourists, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ first gig at The Cavern. Tel: 0151 233 3000

together partners across the private and public sector. It will focus on key opportunities such as the Liverpool Boat Show, the opening of the new Museum of Liverpool and the London 2012 Olympics – and make sure the city gains maximum benefit from them. Partners, from the city council and the universities to the museums and chamber of commerce, will maximise resources by sharing skills, staff, ideas and innovation.

The improvements, funded by Liverpool Vision and City Central Business Improvement District, include a ceiling of light – dubbed Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds - running the full length of Mathew Street; and new s potlights on the John Lennon statue and Arthur Dooley’s ‘Four Lads Who Shook The World’ sculpture. Gateway signs into Cavern Quarter have also been given new spotlights, while the World Capital of Pop Wall of Fame has received a fresh coat of paint. The works were recommended as part of the ‘Designing out Crime’ study, commissioned by the council, which found additional lighting would have a positive impact on the night economy in the Cavern Quarter. Issue 66 City magazine

Around the

Holocaust remembered LIVERPOOL united on 27 January to pay tribute to those who suffered at the hands of the Nazis.

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI! T

HOUSANDS of people joined the party as Liverpool welcomed the start of the Chinese New Year. Liverpool’s Chinese community, which is one of the oldest in Europe, marked the arrival of ‘Xin Mao’ – the Year of the Rabbit – with a spectacular celebration. Chinatown was alive with colour and excitement as more than 10,000 people lined the streets for the festivities, against

the magnificent backdrop of Europe’s biggest Chinese arch. The celebrations, on Nelson Street, Berry Street, Great George Street and Great George Square, included a firecracker display and a stunning lion, dragon and unicorn parade. People of all ages were also given a taste of the Orient with a special Chinese street market. City council Leader, Councillor Joe Anderson, said “The Chinese community

• Liverpool ushers in the Chinese New Year with a colourful dragon parade

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Hazel Williams, joined the leader of the council, Councillor Joe Anderson and Senior Rabbi, M L Cofnas, for the Holocaust Memorial Day commemorations. A wreath-laying ceremony in St John’s Gardens remembered all victims of Nazi persecution, as well as other more recent Genocides in Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. The group then moved on to the Town Hall, where pupils from King David High School sang as 250 guests lit candles. Gosia McKane from community group Merseyside Polonia told Holocaust stories from Poland and pupils from the Enterprise Academy School in South Liverpool gave a presentation on their recent visit to Anne Frank’s house in Amsterdam. Councillor Williams said: “It’s essential we do all we can to make sure future generations never forget what happened, and this day gave us the opportunity to promote understanding and awareness of this dark time in our history.” This year’s event, which was themed ‘Untold Stories’, marked the 66th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi killing camp, where approximately 1.1 million men, women and children were murdered.

City magazine Issue 66

Seeds of new school sown PLANS for a brand new £9 million primary school, integral to the regeneration of north Liverpool, have been approved.

Four Oaks Primary School in Everton was created last year when Hope Valley and Breckfield Primary Schools federated. It will now get a new, state-of-the-art building with a 26 place nursery on a new site at the former Adam Street playground. The two-storey building has been designed around two large courtyards and a main

hall, and will also include two areas which can be used by local residents and community groups. Outside there will be a covered play area which can be used in all weathers, and the first floor will have access to an internal “playdeck” with large skylights to let in natural light and sunshine. It will also become the new headquarters for the city’s three existing centres for specialist speech and language. Work started in January and the new school is expected to open to pupils in April 2012.

www.liverpool.gov.uk

(Happy New Year!) is a big part of Liverpool’s history and culture and the New Year celebrations were a great way for us all to join together and celebrate. “Liverpool has always had extremely strong links with China and these have been strengthened even further through the city’s presence at Shanghai World Expo 2010. I speak on behalf of the city in wishing the Chinese community a very happy and healthy New Year.”

Around the

News in brief The care provided for children and vulnerable adults in Liverpool has been praised in two independent reports.

In children’s, the annual OFSTED judgment gave the council an overall score of three out of four for everything from schools and social care, to making sure young people are healthy. Meanwhile, adult social care was graded ‘excellent’ by The Care Quality Commission.

A new £9.5m district centre has been created on the site of a former ice rink in Kensington.

The landmark project, which fronts Prescot Road and Beech Street and once housed the Silver Blades ice rink, includes a new community fire station, 28 apartments and seven new retail units.

Croxteth Children’s Centre has a new home, following a £900,000 investment on the site of Our Lady and St Swithin’s School. The centre, which has been in operation since 2006, was previously based in an old nursery before moving to its sparkling new facility. It offers a range of support for children and families, including ante natal workshops, help into education and work and health services.

Generous West Derby residents have teamed up with St Mary’s Church and ward councillors to set up a hardship fund for 20 householders in Crawford Close whose homes were hit by flash floods last summer. The residents had been unable to get insurance because their homes had been flooded on previous occasions. Tel: 0151 233 3000

Issue 66 City magazine

Radical

Calling all radicals! Socialist hero remembered, as year-long celebration of rebellions, controversy and forward-thinking gets underway

IVERPOOL has launched its ‘City of Radicals’ year, a packed programme of events designed to entertain, enlighten and educate.

Organisations across the city will mark a century of cultural, social and political radicalism in Liverpool. The city council kicked-off the year by commemorating the centenary of the death of Robert Tressell – one of the defining socialist figures of the twentieth century, who inspired generations with his novel The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists. Tressell, born Robert Noonan, died in Liverpool on 3 February 1911 when he and his daughter were en-route to Canada. He was buried in a cemetery in Walton – where Rice Lane City Farm can be found today. Working with the Bluecoat, the council commissioned acclaimed artist David Jacques, to produce a banner reflecting Tressell’s importance. It has been erected on the side of a prominent terrace of listed buildings on Dale Street. It paved the way for a series of events highlighting the impact Tressell still has on society today – including the recreation of his funeral by local actors and a wreath laying ceremony at the site of the old Royal Infirmary where Tressell died. The City of Radicals programme takes place throughout the year as 100 years

City of Radicals 2011 – The highlights David Jacques: The Irlam House Bequest

New artwork by the 2010 Liverpool Art Prizewinner, produced especially for the Walker Art Gallery, referencing working class struggles and the events of 1911 (2 Feb-3 April) • Actor helps recreate Tressell’s funeral

ago, in 1911, Liverpool was at the height of its power and influence. During that year, three radical events took place: • The Liverpool Transport Strike – some historians believe this is the nearest the UK has come to a revolution and was so alarming the government sent a warship to the Mersey. • The controversial Liver Building opened and was the first to use reinforced concrete in its construction. • The Bluecoat held a ground-breaking exhibition of paintings by PostImpressionists, showcasing Picasso and Matisse alongside local artists. The programme is supported by Liverpool Trade Union Council and the Public Commercial Services Trade Union.

Liverpool Working Class Life & Music Festival At various venues (22-30 April)

Look 11 - Liverpool International Photography Festival At various venues. With its central theme of photography as a ‘call to action’, it opens in May to coincide with the re-opening of the Open Eye Gallery on Wood Street

Writing on the Wall

Festival in May will mark the centenary with a series of literature events with a radical focus

University of Liverpool’s City of Radicals ‘provocations’ A series of public debates starting in May

Art in Revolution: Liverpool 1911

An exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery recreating the Bluecoat’s 1911 Post-Impressionist exhibition when Picasso and Matisse showed alongside Liverpool artists (24 June - 25 Sept )

Democratic Promenade

An exhibition at the Bluecoat drawing on the city’s radical heritage seen through the lens of contemporary artists (30 September – 27 November)

Chapter & Verse

Literature festival at the Bluecoat, with a radical theme (12-16 October)

• Alastair Upton (left) and Bryan Biggs (right) from the Bluecoat join Cllr Wendy Simon in front of the Tressell banner

City magazine Issue 66

For more information, visit www.cityofradicals.co.uk

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Discovery

Discover Liverpool! M

AKE sure you don’t miss the must-see public art event for 2011 – Liverpool Discovers. It tells the remarkable story of Liverpool – its greats, firsts and lesser known facts, all told through a quirky and fun trail of outdoor art installations by some of the UK’s most exciting public artists. And it’s all free! Commissioned by the city council, the project lets you explore Liverpool’s worldfamous places and secret spaces and share

the city’s fascinating story through 12 interactive sculptures by national artists such as Carrie Reichardt, David Kemp, Andy Plant and Joe Rush. You can also take a stroll through the Liverpool ‘Spotlight’ in Whitechapel and William Brown Street to see 22 portraits of ‘Liverpool’s Greats’ by local artists. The fantastical sculptures include ‘Stephenson’s Destinator’ by Aragorn Horner - an unrealised creation by ‘The Rocket’ inventor George Stephenson.

‘Heaven & Earth’ by Andy Plant is an animated interactive sculpture based on the discoveries of Toxteth’s own Jeremiah Horrocks. Using a home-made telescope, he made the first observations of a Transit of Venus. He was one of the first Englishmen to appreciate the astronomical revolution, and although he died at just 22, he can be considered to be the father of British astrophysics for the remarkable depth of his accomplishments. Sally-Ann Wilkinson from Wild in Art, who are delivering the event in association with the Liverpool Lantern Company, said: “The streets will be buzzing with people interacting with some great pieces of public art and discovering a multitude of things they never knew about Liverpool. So why not grab your trail map and join in?”

Liverpool Discovers takes place from 14 February – 20 March. A free illustrative map, packed with intriguing secret facts and practical information, will act as your guide to an entertaining visit to one of the world’s favourite cities. It can be picked up from various outlets across the city centre or downloaded from www.liverpooldiscovers.co.uk. Tel: 0151 233 3000

Issue 66 City magazine

Liverpool Community College

Maths Market Join a short, flexible course with the Maths Market that makes learning fun This FREE course will teach you the skills needed to get you on track for learning or improve your job prospects. If you are 18 or over and want to gain a maths qualification, call now. For more information:

0151 252 3513 0151 252 4701 email:

mathsmarket@ liv-coll.ac.uk

Believe Belong Become

0151 252 3000 â&#x20AC;˘ www.liv-coll.ac.uk City magazine Issue 66

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Budget

City budget update At the beginning of March, Liverpool City Council will be setting its toughest budget in living memory. The council needs to save £91 million out of a controllable budget of £400 million over the next 12 months, due to reductions in government funding and other spending pressures. Here, Council Leader Joe Anderson outlines the scale of the challenge and how it will affect the services provided to residents…

WE HAVE been working our way through every single line of our budget to find savings that protect, as far as possible, the essential services to children, and disabled and vulnerable people who need the life-line of the services the council provides. But, given the scale of the reductions we face, even these front line services will not escape the impact. The reductions will be extremely painful, not only for staff, but also for residents who rely on the services we provide. The government itself ranks Liverpool as the most deprived city in the country, yet we have suffered the biggest cuts, which is neither fair nor just. Without doubt, during all my time as a councillor, I have never had to make such difficult and heartbreaking decisions, and I know everyone working on the budget feels the same. The only thing I can promise is that we will apply fairness to every decision we make. Councillor Joe Anderson Leader, Liverpool City Council

Tel: 0151 233 3000

Issue 66 City magazine

Budget

The key questions City talks to Councillor Paul Brant, the council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, to find out more about the difficult decisions the council is having to make How is the council prioritising which services are affected?

Can’t you set an illegal budget?

The sheer size and scale of what we are dealing with means that no area of council spending will be unaffected. The reduction in spending represents 22 per cent of the budget that we can actually reduce. What we are seeking to do is reduce the impact on those services which support the most vulnerable, such as social care for the young and elderly. But we are having to make extremely difficult, tough and frankly heartbreaking decisions over what we consider a priority. There is no doubt that we will be doing less of everything, and sadly that means there will be fewer libraries, Lifestyles fitness centres and children’s centres. We are trying to protect the most viable and popular facilities, and do it in such a way that people will still be able to access the services, although they may have to travel further to get to them.

If we refused to balance the books, officials from Whitehall would come in and do it for us and we would have no say over their decisions. That would not be fair to the people of the city, who elected the administration to make decisions over services.

I read that you’ve got reserves of £88 million. Wouldn’t that plug most of the gap? We will be using some of our reserves to cover some of the shortfall. But reserves are not rainy day money - most of it is there for specific purposes. The amounts are recommended by the District Auditor to prudently cover overspends on major projects, or are held on behalf of schools.

In addition, spending reserves is only a short term fix. Once spent, they are gone forever.

How are you consulting over the budget decisions? For the first time in many years, all of the political parties have been working together on a joint budget, so that there is a consensus across the council. All political parties, and our partner organisations, have also been kept informed about the tough choices we have to make. We also invited residents to use the ‘You Choose’ budget tool on our website to identify how we should prioritise spending. There will be consultation over any reduction in services to enable people to have their say.

Can’t you just cut back on management, do away with non-jobs or share services with other councils to meet the savings? We have already made £30 million of efficiency savings since last May, and £6 million has come through reducing the wage bill. We have cut the number of senior managers by 48, axed performance-related pay and reduced the level of executive pay significantly. We are talking to other local authorities about sharing services and are seeking to get better value out of the contracts we have with our private sector partners.

City magazine Issue 66

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Budget

WHERE HAS FUNDING BEEN REDUCED? Working Neighbourhood Fund for deprived communities ABOLISHED (WAS £32M)

Working together For the first time in living memory all of Liverpool’s political parties have come together to set a joint budget. The Liberal Democrat, Liberal and Green Party Leaders explain why...

Supporting People (helps 12,500 vulnerable people) DOWN £7M Early Intervention Grants (eg: Children’s Centres) DOWN £6M Other Grants (mainly adult social care) DOWN £8M Transport DOWN £4M Housing Market Renewal DOWN £20M Building Schools for the Future Wave 6 ABOLISHED (WAS £350M)

WHAT HAVE WE DONE SO FAR?

• (l-r) Councillor Warren Bradley, Councillor Sarah Jennings and Councillor Steve Radford

LIVERPOOL has always taken its politics extremely seriously and it often leads to vigorous debate - both in and out of the council chamber. However, we are all agreed on the need to work collectively on this year’s budget because of the substantial reductions in funding that we are facing. We have come together to discuss how to prioritise the services we should continue to provide and find ways of minimising the impact on the most vulnerable within the confines of the requirement to set a legal budget. By working as a team we have been able to pool ideas and suggestions.

Despite this, the devastating scale of the painful challenge we face means the coming months will be difficult. Many different types of services will be reduced. In some cases, they will be withdrawn altogether. The tough and heartbreaking decisions that will be made underline the importance of having a dialogue, and working together to guide the city through this difficult period. Councillor Warren Bradley Leader, Liberal Democrat Party Councillor Sarah Jennings Leader, Green Party Councillor Steve Radford Liberal Party Group Leader

MAJOR AREAS OF SPENDING Recreation and sports centres

We have identified £30m of efficiency savings for 2011/12, including:

£14.1m

• Axing 48 senior management posts

Libraries

• Doing away with performance-related pay • Reviewing back office services to save at least 28 per cent • Reducing consultants and agency staff

Children’s Social Care including Children’s Centres

£46.9m

£12.3m Adult Services including Social Care

£128.7m

Youth & Play

£9.6m Environment, including street cleansing and waste

£20.5m

• Managing vacancies

Highways and Street Lighting

• Voluntary severance for over 300 non-frontline staff

Culture and Tourism

Tel: 0151 233 3000

£32.8m

£11.3m

Issue 66 City magazine

Budget

We’re counting on you THE CITY council is urging all residents to fill in their census forms and help make sure Liverpool gets the resources it needs. Census Day is on Sunday 27th March 2011, and forms will be dropping through the letterboxes of every Liverpool home. The census is an estimate of the size and make-up of the population, and the data is used to produce official population figures for the city for the next 10 years. These figures form the basis for funding from central government so it’s important Liverpool’s population count is right. Traditionally census response rates have been low in the city, meaning that Liverpool may well not be receiving the resources from central government that it should be. You need to complete the form (it can also be completed on-line) so that your community receives the services, facilities and resources - including schools, hospitals and emergency services - it needs. The information you provide is strictly confidential and by law cannot be shared, not even with other government departments.

All Liverpool households will receive a Census form through the post during March 2011. The Census is vital to Liverpool as it will determine the funding the city will receive for all public services (hospitals, GPs, the police, libraries, sports facilities etc.) for the next 10 years. So please fill in your form or complete it online to make sure that Liverpool counts. If you are having any difficulty completing your Census form please telephone the Office for National Statistics’ Census helpline on 0300 0201101 (or visit www.census.gov.uk).

City magazine Issue 66

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Prepared

Weathering the storm (and ice and snow) H

OPEFULLY the worst of the winter weather is over for this year – but preparations are already underway to deal with next winter and beyond.

Following the heavy snow and sub-zero conditions which hit the UK last Christmas, the city council and its partners have reviewed how it prepares for such testing conditions in future. “We had exceptionally severe weather – the worst for decades”, said Councillor Tim Moore, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, “but, while there was inevitably some disruption, we were able to keep the city running. All of the major routes were open to traffic throughout the worst of

the weather and, hopefully, most businesses continued to operate. “We had learned lessons from the previous winter and were better prepared, with higher levels of grit in stock, for example. “But we are not complacent and we have been looking at what more we can do to improve the way we cope at these times.” Among the issues being looked at are: • The routes which are gritted, to see if more roads can be included. • Liverpool is keeping its grit stocks at a high level

• Ways of ensuring grit bins are replenished during severe weather and ways of distributing grit for public use.

we should all consider doing some of the following:

• Reviewing the supply of salt, including sharing services with other councils.

• Avoid unnecessary car travel - but if you need to, allow extra time for your journeys.

As well as the council preparing for adverse weather, individuals should also make sure that they are ready for bad weather conditions, whether it is snow, floods – or even a heat wave. There is valuable information in the Let’s Get Ready Liverpool publication (see below). When snow and ice have been forecast, preparing your family, your home and your car is essential as the temperature starts to plummet. Before and during a cold snap

• Keep your water flowing – avoid frozen pipes. Lag and protect taps and pipes, outdoors and indoors. • Clear the snow or ice early in the day, but take care when clearing snow. Icy air makes it harder to work and breathe. • Be a good neighbour; think about vulnerable people in the community.

Be prepared! IT’S not only snow and ice that can cause problems - bad weather can hit communities at any time of the year

verpool let’sgetreinacadseyofli emergency Steps to take

Gales in spring, heatwaves in the summer - and flooding at any time - can cause immense disruption to our lives. But the impact of extreme weather events - or indeed other emergencies such as power cuts - can be lessened if we make simple preparations. The council’s Emergency Planning Unit has produced a useful 32 page booklet entitled ‘Let’s Get Ready Liverpool – steps to take in case of emergency’ which is available from One Stop Shops and on the council website: www.liverpool.gov.uk. It contains a wealth of information on how all types of emergencies can affect you, and

Useful websites

what you can do to help yourself, your family and your neighbours, such as: • Having a household emergency plan for your home. • Having an emergency supply of key household or car essentials. • What to do if you have to leave your home in hurry. Take a bit of time to read it – it could save you a lot of trouble Severe Weather & Flood ing in the future.

Flooding happens very quickly and suddenly. Flash flooding can wreck homes, cars and damage critical infrastru cture in a matter of minutes, but its impact can devastate lives and communities for years. Many believe that, as a result of climate change, there will be more and more incidents of flash floods in the future. And the major flooding events we’ve seen in the last few years in the UK could be just the start.

Almost every location in the city can be prone to flash flooding . It just takes the right conditions -i.e. a period of heavy and intense rainfall - to create a drainage capacity overload which can lead to localised flooding on the highway. In recent years, severe weather events in the city – such as high winds – have resulted in damage to property, infrastructure and sadly in a small number of fatalities. And as a result Liverpool City Council recognises that both these types of emergencies can a have major implications for the city’s communities.

The Environment Agency: www.environment-agency.gov.uk United Utilities: www.unitedutilities.com

Scottish Power: www.spenergynetworks.com

The Met Office: www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather Direct Gov - Snow Code: www.direct.gov.uk 18

Tel: 0151 233 3000

Issue 66 City magazine

Safer

Dog Control Order Considered A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour involving dogs is being planned in North Liverpool.

The move comes after there were 180 recorded incidents last year in parks and open spaces in Anfield, County and Kirkdale wards - a 37 per cent increase on the previous year. The proposed Dog Control Order specifies five offences - failing to remove dog dirt; not keeping a dog on a lead; not keeping a dog on a lead when ordered to so by an authorised officer; allowing a dog to enter land from which they are excluded and taking more than a specified number of dogs onto land. Breaches of the order would result in a fixed penalty or prosecution. An order may also be introduced to ban drinking alcohol in public in North Liverpool after a rise in alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour. Consultation about a Control of Dogs Order and a ban on drinking in public in the area is now taking place.

Havens set up A

N INNOVATIVE scheme which will create places of safety for people who feel threatened has been launched in North Liverpool.

The CitySafe Haven initiative involves shopkeepers, community centres and business owners offering their premises as shelters where people who feel threatened, vulnerable or intimidated can go. Staff will then take positive action to help. This may include locking their premises,

or calling a family member or the police. Thirty-five premises have signed up for the first phase of the initiative. All display a highly prominent, illuminated sign, visible from a distance. Liverpool is the first city outside London to set up a Safe Haven initiative. Across London there are currently 200 premises designated as Safe Havens. Councillor Ann O’Byrne, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “This is a very important initiative in which the community can take responsibility for protecting people

Respect makes homes safer A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning featured in the city’s latest Respect Week.

• Lord Mayor Cllr Williams and Young Lord Mayor Monika Medeg join the Fire Service for home safety checks

City magazine Issue 66

The recent Tuebrook and Stoneycroft week included a project by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service which checked carbon monoxide levels in homes, in a bid to reduce poisoning by the toxic gas. Firefighters are taking carbon monoxide readings in around 30,000 homes in Liverpool during home fire safety checks over the next 12 months. The Lord Mayor, Councillor Hazel Williams, marked Respect Week by joining the service when they visited households throughout the Tuebrook and Stoneycroft area. The Respect initiative aims to make neighbourhoods cleaner and greener, cracking down on crime and antisocial behaviour, providing activities and events for young and old and helping people into training and employment. www.liverpool.gov.uk

Safer

Community shines A TOUCH of sparkle has been given to the Yew Tree and Stockbridge Village areas.

Local councillors teamed up with a host of partners, including the emergency services, representatives from Knowsley Borough Council and local community representatives for an environmental clean-up of the area around Altfinch Close. A heavily-used footpath was tidied up and cleared of overgrown vegetation, and roads were cleaned, with 2.5 tonnes of rubbish removed. Particular attention was paid to the fronts of vacant properties which were strimmed and litter picked.

Households also had smoke alarms installed and fire advice given; a pencil character litter bin was donated to Mab Lane Youth Centre; 10 road name plates were cleared of graffiti, two street lights were repaired, and more than 350 households were offered advice on how to deal with rubbish and unwanted household items. Further environmental improvements are planned, including the installation of a new knee rail, existing knee rails to be improved and repainted and vacant land sites to be cut and cleared of fly-tipping.

• (l-r) Cllr Ann O’Byrne; parents of murdered London teenager Jimmy Mizena - Barry and Margaret; and Susannah Fish and Helen King of Merseyside Police launch Safe Haven

who feel threatened. Nobody should feel afraid when they are out and about in their neighbourhood and the knowledge that there is always somewhere they can go will take away that fear.” Cash Convertors are one of the businesses taking part in the initiative. Damian Tart, store manager, said: “We are pleased to be a part of this new initiative for Liverpool. It clearly identifies those safe places that are equipped to provide assistance, creating a stronger and safer community.”

Youngsters act on road safety LIVERPOOL youngsters walked the red carpet as they premiered road safety films that they wrote, filmed, directed and starred in!

• Lawrence Community Primary pupils receive awards for their work from road safety mascot ‘Benji Tel: 0151 233 3000

The work of the talented Year 5 pupils from schools in Kirkdale and Picton – completed as part of Liverpool’s ‘Our Walk To School’ project - was shown at a special event at Mersey Maritime Museum Students from Lawrence Community, St Hugh’s, Smithdown, St Anne’s Catholic, Kirkdale St Lawrence, St John’s and The Trinity spent 10 weeks taking part in an awareness course based on their local area, carrying out speed

“Our Walk To School is a really effective way of connecting with young people and educating them about the dangers of the road.” Councillor Malcolm Kennedy, Cabinet Member for Regeneration surveys and hazard identification and working with a local media company to make road safety films. The 10 films have given the youngsters the chance to express their views on the key issues in a creative way, using drama, documentary and news-style material. Issue 66 City magazine

Partners Credit Union is a legal, not-for-profit financial co-operative offering ethical, affordable and accessible savings, loans and insurance products to anyone who lives or works in the Merseyside area. The credit union is owned and run by its members in the form of a voluntary Board of Directors elected each year from the membership. Each member is entitled to one vote. The credit union is also a safe place to put your money as we are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and members’ savings are covered up to £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme – just like the banks and building societies. Additionally, members’ savings and loans are covered by FREE life insurance (conditions apply). So how does it work? Members regularly save with the credit union and this pot of money then becomes available to lend to other members at affordable rates. You can join Partners Credit Union by completing a simple application form and agreeing to save, from as little as £1 per week. There are various ways of paying in including Standing Order, Paypoint/Payzone Card, cash or cheque at the office or one of our collection points or via Payroll Deduction if you are employed by one of our sponsoring employers. Once you have saved for 12 weeks, then you can apply for a loan of up to 3 times your savings, so if you have £300 saved – you can apply for £900!

City magazine Issue 66

Our rates are variable depending on the amount borrowed and range between 9.8% and 26.8% APR. There are no set up, arrangement or early settlement fees with the credit union and we will even lend small amounts from £50 upwards and repayment periods are generally flexible with up to 5 years to repay. Example and comparison of a £300 loan over 52 weeks: Provident

With Credit Union

*Information taken from Provident Website 01.02.11

Payment

Weekly

Total Interest Payable

APR

Weekly Payment

Total Interest Payable

APR

£6.51

£38.08

26.8%

£10.50

£246

272.2%

Our activities are not linked to stock market, we have no outside shareholders, members’ funds are not invested and we don’t lend money to trade, our activities are funded purely by member generated finance. Anyone living or working in Merseyside can join Partners – no matter who you are – young, old, waged, unwaged. So contact us now and join 118 million people in 79 countries across the world who are members of their credit unions: New Oxford House, 75 Dale Street, Liverpool L2 2HT Tel: 0151 258 1014 E-Mail: enquiries@partnerscreditunion.co.uk Website: www.partnerscreditunion.co.uk

www.liverpool.gov.uk

people, places, music, sport, history...

Organ donation Staff at St George’s Hall are hoping local people will dig deep – to the tune of £300,000 – to breathe new life into one of the country’s best loved organs. Sarah Langworthy reports.

Organ factfile: • Bomb damage to St George’s Hall, 1941

• Completed in 1855, the Willis Organ was state-of-the art for its time, powered by steam engine • The organ is housed in a single chamber at the north end of St George’s Hall. The size and height of this part of the building provide the perfect acoustic settings

t HAS survived major bomb damage, thrilled millions of music lovers from all over the world and remains one of the enduring symbols of Liverpool’s musical excellence. But now, St. George’s Hall’s historic Willis organ needs a helping hand from the people of the city. It’s the third largest in the UK. And it has seen a lot over the last two centuries. Designed and built between 1851 and 1855 by ‘Father’ Henry Willis I – often referred to as the greatest organ builder of the day – the design was so ahead of its time that it went on to influence instruments throughout the world. It underwent significant changes and repair work in the late 1800s and in 1931, but tragically suffered damage when the Hall took a direct hit from an incendiary bomb in December 1941. It was hastily dismantled and removed to the basement for safekeeping until 1954. Parts of the instrument have been renovated over the past 60 years, but Liverpool City Council has launched a new appeal to see the organ fully restored and brought back to its former glory. The aim is to raise £300,000 which would go towards fixing all the ‘operational’ aspects – these include the ‘key actions’ which make the sound when the key is pressed. They date back to 1897 and are, unsurprisingly, extremely worn. The leatherwork, which dates back to 1957 also needs replacing. Tel: 0151 233 3000

• It is generally acknowledged to be one of the finest concert organs in the world Another key piece of renovation would mean that for the first time in more than 70 years. audiences could hear the solo tubas and French horn through the organ. The stunning decorative casing designed by Charles Cockerell is also in need of repair. There are three ways people can support the St. George’s Hall organ appeal:

• Adopt a pipe – There are 7,737 pipes up for adoption for a minimum donation of £25. Supporters receive a certificate and have their name entered into a commemorative book, on display at all recitals.

• Annual sponsorship – Set up a standing order and donate every year – no matter how big or small. Those who donate more than £300 will be named in the Halls Heritage Reception with complimentary seats at a recital. Those who donate more than £500 will be invited to key organ events and recognised in a public reception.

• Organ experience – A unique opportunity to play on this famous instrument in the company of one of the resident organists. This costs £500 and bookings are required.

Anyone who would like more information or to donate can call Tracy Winstanley on 07753 832 718.

• With its 7,737 pipes, the organ is the third largest in the country, exceeded only by the organs in the Royal Albert Hall and Liverpool’s own Anglican Cathedral • In its 155 year history, St. George’s Hall has had only six organists, all local men with international reputations

“Hearing the Hall organ as a boy was the catalyst for my own love of organ music and my career choice. It is one of the jewels in the musical crown of our great city, and still one of the most important concert instruments of its age and type in the world, with the power to excite the listener more than 150 years on.”

Professor Ian Tracey, City Organist Issue 66 City magazine

Liverpool’s the reel deal! Liverpool is proving more popular than ever with film and television producers. Paul Johnston has been finding out more about the city’s status as the Hollywood of the North…

OLLYWOOD blockbusters, TV series and adverts are all in a day’s work for the city council’s Film Office.

The team handled a record 318 enquiries in 2010, up 17 per cent on the previous year, and supported 253 productions. They included new blockbuster Captain America: The First Avenger, which was filmed at the Stanley Dock and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, shot in the Queensway Mersey Tunnel. And Route Irish, a feature film shot in the city by respected director Ken Loach, goes on general release in cinemas in March. The total of 723 film days in 2010 generated almost £16 million for the local economy. Councillor Wendy Simon, Cabinet Member for Culture, said: “Attracting top film and television productions to the city is hugely important. It doesn’t just raise our profile, it also contributes greatly to our economy, helping sustain thousands of jobs. “Many local businesses, including catering firms and builders merchants get a great deal of work from production companies. And of course, when the crews are here they need somewhere to stay, so our hotels and restaurants also benefit.”

So what is the secret of the city’s success? Lynn Saunders, manager of the Liverpool Film Office, believes the city has a unique offer: “Liverpool sells itself because of the amazing architecture and the great range of locations we can offer. “We also work really hard to make it as easy as possible to film here and cut through the red tape involved in closing roads or altering street furniture such as signs. “The location manager on Captain America described us as the best Film Office in the UK, which we were obviously delighted about.”

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Other high profile productions filmed in Liverpool and coming to TV screens in 2011 include:

Anubis House

A drama about teenagers living in a boarding house by local firm Lime Pictures for CBBC, in collaboration with US children’s channel Nickelodeon

Justice

A five-part drama series made by Colin McKeown’s LA productions for BBC One, which will be shown in the spring

City magazine Issue 66

• Anubis House www.liverpool.gov.uk

Made in Liverpool – our home grown talent

North Star productions is a prime example of the city’s burgeoning film industry.

Did you know? • Liverpool is the most filmed city in the UK outside London

The company was formed by brothers Tony and Neil Fitzmaurice who made their name when they wrote and produced Going Off Big Time, which received rave reviews at the Cannes Film Festival and went on to become a cult gangster classic. Their latest production – Charlie Noades RIP - is a comedy shot entirely on location on Merseyside. The absorbing plot centres around a struggling family scrap yard business. The impressive cast includes Cold Feet’s John Thomson, acclaimed local actor John McArdle, ex-Brookside

favourite Suzanne Collins and a debut for Ian McCulloch, legendary front man of Echo and the Bunnymen. Neil Fitzmaurice said: “I’m just so proud of the work that everybody put in to get this film made. It was a true labour of love and we had to overcome a lot of obstacles to get here. “We want to keep on making home grown movies that feature this wonderful city and all its talents.” Tony Fitzmaurice added: “It was fantastic to be able to shoot the entire film on Merseyside. We want everyone on Merseyside to go and see it, get behind it and help us showcase the huge amount of artistic talent we have in our region.”

• Set up in 1989, Liverpool Film Office was the first of its kind in the UK • Films shot in Liverpool over the last two years include Lennon biopic Nowhere Boy, Awaydays, Sherlock Holmes, Captain America and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. • Since the year 2000, over 880 television and film productions have been shot in Liverpool. Star names such as Steve Coogan, the late Richard Harris, Bob Hoskins, Johnny Vegas, Robert Carlyle, Samuel L Jackson, Jude Law and Robert Downey Jr. have all shot scenes here. • Liverpool is now home to a host of active production companies - the number has quadrupled in the last ten years – including Lime Pictures, the UK’s largest independent television production company. • Liverpool’s rich architectural base means it is frequently used as a double for major cities across the globe, including Chicago, London, Moscow, New York, Paris and Rome. • Filming boosted Liverpool’s economy by almost £30 million in 2009 and 2010. With interest from filmmakers growing even more, the Film Office will continue to work with them and keep the city on the movie-making map. Tel: 0151 233 3000

Issue 66 City magazine

Listen to Africa

• Mokoomba

EAD DOWN to Sefton Park this June to experience the sights and sounds of one of the world’s most vibrant continents. Africa Oye, a huge celebration of African music and culture, takes place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 June – and the initial line-up has been announced. Artists performing at this year’s cultural feast include Cameroonian singer and guitarist Kareyce Fotso and energetic Zimbabwean group Mokoomba - with many more performers yet to be announced. As well as music from Africa, crowds will be able to enjoy the sounds of South America and the Caribbean. And the ‘Oye Village’ will give people the chance to tuck into traditional food, buy fair-trade goods, enjoy hair braiding, try henna art, healing and remedial massage and even take part in puppet-making. The festival runs from 12.30pm-9.30pm on both the Saturday and the Sunday. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.africaoye.com.

What lies beneath...

City magazine Issue 66

FANCY a great trip out with a difference? Then look no further than below your feet! The Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre takes you below the city streets where you can discover a magnificently excavated network of tunnels, chambers and labyrinths. The underground world was created in the 19th Century by Joseph Williamson who bought an area of land in Edge Hill and employed poor people to dig tunnels under the city – for what reason, no one really knows and it’s still a mystery to this day! Don your hard hat and a guided tour will take you through the maze of tunnels and fascinating exhibitions depicting the life and times of Williamson – a truly eccentric character. This first rate tourist attraction, based at The Old Stable Yard in Smithdown Lane, features a visitor centre, gift shop and café which is the perfect place to appreciate the surreal underworld! Until April 1 the tunnels are open Thursday to Sunday from 10am-5pm, and from April they’re open from Tuesday to Sundays, including Bank Holiday Mondays. Tickets for adults cost just £4.50, children £3, concessions £4 and a family ticket is £14. For more information call 0151 709 6868 or visit www.williamsontunnels.co.uk.

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Memory Pool

A Striking Record Liverpool’s City of Radicals year has just been launched (see page 14), marking a century of cultural, social and political radicalism. Roger Hull, Research Officer at Liverpool Record Office, looks back on a momentous period of industrial unrest, in 1911, which will forever be etched on the city’s memory…

NE hundred years ago saw one of the most tumultuous times in Liverpool’s history.

The year 1911 was one of significant industrial strife, strikes and riots, concluding with Liverpool’s General Transport Strike, which involved dockers, railway workers and sailors, as well as other trades. The strike brought Liverpool to a standstill for most of that summer, as tens of thousands of workers gathered to hear speeches from workers and union leaders. So serious was the situation that police from as far afield as Birmingham were drafted in, as well as the army. There was even a warship stationed in the River Mersey. The Riot Act was read to strikers on St George’s Plateau which led to violence on both sides and barricades were put

Tel: 0151 233 3000

up in Christian Street. Strikers were shot on the streets. That day, with its tragic loss of life, on 13 August 2011, became known as “Bloody Sunday”. Liverpool Record Office has a fascinating and important set of postcards taken at the time of the strike by a local company called Carbonora. They bring home the conflict in the city and show just how many men were involved. If you want to view an original archive you will need to visit the Wellington Employment Park South, Unit 33, Dunes Way, L5 because Central Library is currently closed for major redevelopment. For more information, visit our website at www.liverpool.gov.uk/archives or call 0151 233 5817. At least 24 hours’ advance notice of your visit is essential.

The Record Office microfilms are available at the City Service in World Museum Liverpool (2nd floor), which is open daily from 10am to 5pm without the need for appointments.

Images and other information on the 1911strike can be found at: • The Mersey Gateway website which is a major database with many images on the growth of the Port of Liverpool and its hinterland www.mersey-gateway.org • Our online catalogue at www.liverpool.gov.uk/archives which lists books on the strike, including “Near To Revolution: the Liverpool general transport strike of 1911” by Eric Taplin (1994)

Issue 66 City magazine

Phil your home with music THIS MARCH sees the release of two fantastic classical works on CD – Shostakovich’s Symphonies Nos. 1 and 3 – performed by none other than the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the dynamic young conductor Vasily Petrenko. It’s part of an on-going series on the Naxos record label which will see the team record all 15 symphonies by the great Russian composer. Their recordings so far have been met with critical acclaim, with BBC Music Magazine stating “A truly breathtaking response from Vasily Petrenko and his now world-class Liverpudlians…superb playing all round.” The CD will be on sale in March (catalogue number: 8.572396) but City Magazine has FIVE copies to give away. To be in with a chance of winning a copy of the CD, simply answer the following question:

What is the name of the conductor performing the symphonies? a) Carl Davis b) Malcolm Sargent c) Vasily Petrenko

competitions

Answers to: City Magazine, RLPO competition, Room 34, Municipal Buildings, Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2DH; or email to: city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk. Closing date: 25th March 2011. One entry per person. Please include your your name, address and daytime contact number.

Animated Liverpool! THE LAST edition of City gave readers the chance to win a beautiful book, taking a behind-thescenes look at the talented Singh Twins’ award-winning animation film, ‘The Making of Liverpool’. We’ve now got copies of the DVD to give away to five lucky readers. The film focuses on their painting ‘Liverpool 800’ which they created as a celebration of the city’s rich heritage and achievements. The city’s fascinating history and diverse cultural identity is told through archive video footage, poetry, photography, artwork and music. Described as “brilliant and magical” by internationally acclaimed film editor Kate Amends, this is a must-see tribute to the city by two the country’s most celebrated artists.

You can find out more about the film at www.singhtwins.co.uk, but for your chance to win a copy, just answer the following question:

The Singh Twins created which painting as a celebration of Liverpool’s culture and heritage? a) Liverpool 100 b) Liverpool 500 c) Liverpool 800 Answers to: City Magazine, Singh Twins competition, Room 34, Municipal Buildings, Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2DH; or email to: city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk. Closing date: Friday 25th March 2011. One entry per person. Please include your your name, address and daytime contact number.

Congratulations to last issue’s winners! Mary Goldman, from Liverpool 8 and Eric Formela from Cressington won copies of The Singh Twins book, The Making of Liverpool. Kay Jones, from Garston won a family ticket to see Aladdin at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. Sue Hepworthy, from Mossley Hill was treated to lunch for two courtesy of Bistro Franc.

City magazine Issue 66

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Red Rose return for Paul

ANCASHIRE CCC star Paul Horton is delighted at the prospect of playing plenty of cricket for the Red Rose on his ‘home’ patch next season. With the cricket club hosting five of their eight four-day LV= County Championship fixtures at Liverpool CC in Aigburth this coming season, the batsman is looking forward to playing in front of his family and friends. Although the 28 year-old was born and raised in Australia, he moved to Merseyside as a teenager and is now proud to call the city his home. Paul said: “Liverpool is a second home to me: all my family and friends live here. It’s a special place for me to go back and play. I want to do well in front of my family and friends and for the community in Liverpool who, for want of a better phrase, made me the player I am today.”

The long and winding road race An exciting new marathon has been announced for the region.

A prize to bowl you over! WE’VE got a pair of Lancashire five-match season tickets up for grabs! To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, just answer the following question:

• Paul Horton

Lancashire CCC Fixtures To Be Played In Liverpool: Lancashire v Sussex April 8-11 Lancashire v Somerset April 20-23 Lancashire v Yorkshire May 18-21 Lancashire v Durham June 27-30 Lancashire v Warwickshire August 1–4 Visit www.lccc.co.uk or call 0161 282 4040 for ticket information

Tel: 0151 233 3000

Who is Lancashire’s captain for 2011? a) Mark Chilton b) Glen Chapple c) Gary Keedy Answers to: City Magazine, Cricket Competition, Room 34, Municipal Buildings, Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2DH; or email to: city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk. Closing date: Friday 25th March 2011. One entry per person. Please include your your name, address and daytime contact number.

Splash out for charity! TV presenter Gail Porter and Olympic Gold Medallist Duncan Goodhew MBE are inviting Liverpool people to make a splash and help raise millions for charity.

The pair have launched the national Swimathon 2011 challenge which aims to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care and The Swimathon Foundation.

RunLiverpool will take place on 9th October 2011, the first major marathon to be held in the city in over 20 years. It’s expected to attract 12,000 runners. The 26-mile race will start in Birkenhead Park, with the course passing locations such as Queensway Tunnel, Princes Park and Sefton Park, before finishing in the shadow of the Three Graces at the Pier Head. The race has already gained a huge amount of international interest due to the fact that it takes place on John Lennon’s birthday. And with an estimated 30,000 visitors expected to stay in the city during the marathon, it could boost the city’s economy by more than £3 million. There are 3,000 places for Merseyside runners, 6,000 for national and international runners and 3,000 for charity entries. Visit www.runliverpoolmarathon.co.uk to register or for more information.

competition

The Aquatics Centre in Wavertree is Liverpool’s flagship pool for the challenge. Swimmers can choose from 1.5k, 2.5k or 5k challenges and you can take part individually or as part of a team. Entries are open until 7 April 2011. Visit www.swimathon.org or call 0845 36 700 36 for more information.

• Gail Porter and Duncan Goodhew launch Swimathon 2011

Issue 66 City magazine

SJM C O N C E RTS & L I V E N ATI O N BY A R R A N G E M E NT W ITH C A A & M A G U S E NTE RTA I NM E NT P R E S E NT

McFly

Duran Duran

29 March £14.00 / £28.50

23 May £30.00 - £55.00

Russell Howard

Westlife

16 February £25.00

18 March £40.50

Right Here, Right Now

Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra 1 July £21.50 - £39.50*

British Supercross Championship

The British Pink Floyd Show

Indoor Dirt Bike Racing 19 February £21.00 - £36.00

2 + 30 July £19.50 - £37.50*

Boyzone

Elbow

Ne-Yo

Katy Perry

20 March £28.09

21 February £35.50

plus special guests Trey Songz & Chipmunk 23 February £36.00 / £40.00

Usher

Plus special guest Tinchy Stryder 24 February £40.00 / £45.00

WEDNESDAY 1 8 MAY THURSDAY 1 9 MAY SATURDAY 21 MAY SUNDAY 22 MAY MONDAY 23 MAY WWE Wrestlemania Revenge Tour SATURDAY 28 MAY 18 April MONDAY 30 MAY £25.00 - £50.00 TUESDAY 31 MAY WEDNESDAY 01 JUNE FRIDAY 03 JUNE T Peter Kay D OU 04 JUNE SOLSATURDAY 27 March SOLD OUT 18 October £28.09

21 - 25 April

PDC presents

Harlem Globetrotters

8 - 10 March £32.50

Justin Bieber 11 March

30 April £12.50 - £40.00

Tim Minchin

11 May £35.00

MUSIC • LASERS • LIGHTS • FIREWORKS

12 March £26.00 - £37.50

John Bishop Sunshine

5 - 6 June £25.00

The Script 14 March

Britain’s Got Talent - Live!

OUT SOLD

17 June £35.00

The Australian Pink Floyd Show 15 March £27.50

0844 493 6666 0844 4999 990 0844 338 8000 08444 124 624 0844 8000 400 0844 856 0202 0844 847 1 51 5 0844 576 3000 029 2022 4488 0114 256 5656 0844 847 8000

M Rihanna W W W . D U R A N D U RSOA NLD. C OO UT

7 October

Paddy McGuinness Saturday Night Live 8 October £25.00

Jason Manford

OUT SOLD

Classical Spectacular

NEWCASTLE METROguests RADIOYou ARENA plus special Me At Six GLASGOW SECC 4 July £33.19 BIRMINGHAM LG ARENA NOTTINGHAM CAPITAL FM ARENA LIVERPOOL ECHO ARENA Deacon Blue LONDON 29 THE JulyO 2 ARENA BRIGHTON CENTRE £18.50 - £36.50* BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL CENTRE CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL ARENA SHEFFIELD MOTORPOINT Batman LiveARENA MANCHESTER MEN ARENA 7 - 11 September

NEW ALBUM ALL YOU NEED IS NOW OUT NOW

28 April £20.00 / £30.00

The X Factor - Live!

U K TO U R

B U Y O N L I N E : G I G S A N D T O U R £20.00 S . C O M- £45.00 / TICKETMASTER.CO.UK 2 4 H R C C H O T L I N E : 0 8 4 4 81 1 0 0 51 / 0 8 4 4 8 2 6 2 8 2 6 TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY 28TH JANUARY AT 9.30AM

Premier League Darts

2 - 6 March £13.00 - £35.00

Blink 182

Here and Now Tour

ft. Boy George, Jason Donovan, Jimmy Somerville, Belinda Carlisle, Midge Ure, A Flock Of Seagulls, Pepsi & Shirlie, plus more!

25 June £36.50

11 October £25.00

Alan Carr Spexy Beast

25 - 26 October £30.00

Carnival Du Vampires Rock The Greatest Rock Show on Earth! 29 October £15.00 / £28.50

Lee Evans Roadrunner 2 - 4 November £30.00

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW! WWW.ECHOARENA.COM/SIGNUP

BOX OFFICE: 0844 8000 400 WWW.ECHOARENA.COM All ticket purchases are subject to a ‘per ticket’ booking fee and a handling fee. Tickets are subject to availability. * VIP Package available for selected events - call Box Office for details.

ReplicaLambanana Liverpool’s world-famous yellow icon is here to stay.

The Superlambanana will remain in Liverpool thanks to an agreement reached by the city council and Japanese artist Taro Chiezo. There has been a great deal of speculation about the future of the Superlambanana in the city, as the original sculpture was only on loan to the city council from the artist. The agreement will see the Lambanana being ‘cloned’ by original sculptors Julian Taylor and Andrew Small. Exactly the same as Tithebarn Street’s current resident, it will remain in the city for the next 80 years. One major difference is that the replica model will be made out of weather-proof material, unlike the original version which has suffered weather damage. Cabinet Member for culture and tourism, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “It’s great news that the Superlambanana will now be

staying in Liverpool. It has become such an iconic image associated with the city and I am sure that locals and tourists alike will flock to see it for years to come. “It played an important role in attracting thousands of visitors to the city during the

culture celebrations in 2008 and it will be great to have a permanent reminder of its success.” It is expected that the current Superlambanana will be returned to Chiezo to be auctioned off.

competition Disney On Ice presents a Disneyland® Adventure

Win a family ticket to the show! AFTER the outstanding success of Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes in 2009, Disney On Ice is back in Liverpool - and we have a family ticket to giveaway to one lucky prize-winner! Catch the next ride to laugh-out-loud fun with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a trip to the park, in Disney On Ice presents a Disneyland® Adventure, taking place at Echo Arena Liverpool from 2-6 March 2011. Catch the beat with Baloo on the Jungle Cruise™, blast off with Buzz Lightyear on Space Mountain™, see Snow White and Cinderella during the Main Street U.S.A.® parade, and thrill to “Incredible” excitement when everyone’s favourite superhero family shows up to save the day! Tel: 0151 233 3000

For your chance to win a family ticket (for four) to the show on Wednesday 2 March, simply answer the following question:

Which of the following characters does not appear in Toy Story? a) Buzz Lightyear b) Pluto c) Woody Answers to: City Magazine, Disney On Ice competition, Room 34, Municipal Buildings, Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2DH; or email to: city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk. Closing date: 28th February 2011.One entry per person. Please include your your name, address and daytime contact number. Issue 66 City magazine

A day in the life...

OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK

Not many jobs can boast a workload as diverse as that found at Liverpool Registrars Service, from the registering of a birth, couples getting married and families registering the death of a loved one.

www.liverpool.gov.uk Email: liverpool.direct@liverpool.gov.uk Recruitment For all recruitment enquiries

0151 233 3003

Automated Payments Line To make an automated payment for council services

0151 233 2000

Superintendent Registrar Pat Dobie, who has worked at the Register Office for 25 years, shares a day at work…

Payments Line (Advisor assisted) To make a payment for council services

0151 233 3050

Appointments For Council Tax and/or housing benefit appointments at your nearest One Stop Shop

0151 233 3016

9am

The office is already a hive of activity as everyone prepares for the day ahead. I hold a quick team meeting so everyone can have a chat about what they’ve got on throughout the day. 9.30am I head off to Liverpool Women’s Hospital for my first job which involves registering new born babies. It’s quite a detailed process, with a huge amount of behind-the-scenes checks, but it’s important to make the process as easy as possible for the new mums and dads who are usually a bit dazed after the birth of their child! 11.30am From births, I turn my attention to marriages and head to the Racquets Club in the city centre where I’m performing a wedding for a lovely elderly couple. Each wedding is carried out with military precision, but the team is experienced enough to make sure the day is packed full or warmth and romance, and the couple seem to thoroughly enjoy their wedding day – so job done! 1pm Back to the Cotton Exchange to grab a quick sandwich and try to catch up on my emails before a jam-packed afternoon.

• Pat Dobie (right)

1.30pm To start the afternoon I perform a private citizenship ceremony for a lady who has been granted British Citizenship. She needs a passport urgently to visit a sick relative abroad and cannot wait for the usual group ceremony in two weeks time. 2pm I register the death of a lady with her son and daughter-in-law. A very painful time and it’s so important to put the couple at ease. 3.30pm We’ve had a request for a family certificate so I head into the annals of the Register Office to where all the records of births, deaths and marriages, dating back 174 years, are kept. 4.15pm Last appointment of the day is a civil partnership ceremony in the Sefton Room at the Cotton Exchange. A large number of guests are here to help the special couple celebrate and there’s a fantastic atmosphere - and I imagine there will be some very sore heads tomorrow! For more information visit www.liverpoolregisteroffice.co.uk or call 0151 233 4978.

Careline: Adult Social Care services

0151 233 3800

Careline: Children and families Social Care Service

0151 233 3700

Council Tax enquiries

0151 233 3008

Housing & Council Tax Benefit

0151 233 3009

Disabled Parking & Libraries Blue Badge Scheme & Library book renewals

0151 233 3000

Street Scene Services Refuse collection, Recycling, Trees and Woodlands, Highways, Street Cleansing, Street Lighting, Grounds Maintenance & Pest Control, Anti Social Behaviour

0151 233 3001

Benefit Maximisation Service Advice, guidance and assistance with the full range of welfare benefits

0151 233 3064

Electoral Registration Advice on electoral Register and local Elections

0151 233 3028

Registrars, Cemetery and Crematoria Appointments to register births and deaths and all enquiries about local cemeteries and crematoriums

0151 233 3004

Education Awards, School Admissions, Student Support

0151 233 3006

Education Grants, School Meals, Uniforms, Travel passes

0151 233 3010

Parking Parking Issues, Permits and fines

0151 233 3011

Licensing Including Taxi and Street Trader licensing

0151 233 3015 Published by Liverpool City Council Communications Municipal Buildings, Dale Street, Liverpool L2 2DH

Planning and Building Control

Editor: Damian Richards-Clarke

Untaxed & Abandoned Vehicle Reports

Circulation enquiries call 0151 233 5225

Tourist Information and Events

To advertise in City Magazine call David Hedges at Barbers Media on 0151 944 4334 david.hedges@barbersmedia.co.uk

General enquiries For general enquiries, you can contact us by:

city.magazine@liverpool.gov.uk

City is the official magazine of Liverpool City Council

ISSUE 66 • February 2011 City Magazine is delivered free to 213,000 homes and businesses in Liverpool

City magazine Issue 66

Have you got a story for City? Give us a call on 0151 225 2464

0151 233 3021 0151 233 3045 0151 233 2008

Telephone: 0151 233 3000 Minicom: 0151 225 3275 Careline Minicom: 0151 225 2500

The next issue of city is delivered from April 2011

www.liverpool.gov.uk

Broccoli is the business. Ask Mum, it’s the only green thing I eat. The way she does it with cheese sauce is the best. She’s been getting all adventurous lately and now it’s popping up everywhere, in stir-fries, curries... There’s always some of it in the fridge, well wrapped up, so it doesn’t go soft like Mum. lovefoodhatewaste.com has more tips and recipes to help you waste less food and save up to £50 a month.

Shut out criminals Margaret thought she was getting a bargain, only £100 to have her front gutters fixed. She ended up paying £500. MARGARET was a victim of doorstep crime and you may know of somebody who has also been a victim.

This type of crime can be very distressing, particularly for older people. Sometimes people are approached at their door by ‘cold callers’ such as rogue traders, bogus callers or uninvited callers such as sales people. Householders may feel pressurised into buying goods or services that they did not want.

Remember: • Doorstep criminals and bogus callers are well practised at what they do. They use all kinds of tricks to take money from householders. They will appear genuine and respectable so that people aren’t suspicious. ‘Doorstep crime’ is a term used to cover a number of different situations. Many people aren’t aware that such crimes can include: • Claiming work needs doing which isn’t necessary. • Falsely describing work which has been done. • Giving a misleading price, e.g. quoting £100 and charging £400. • Not giving proper business details on paperwork. • Failing to give cancellation rights.

Your Rights

What to do if someone calls on your doorstep:

When buying goods or services from doorstep sellers, remember that work should be carried out:

Take care when opening the door. Not everyone who calls on your doorstep will be genuine. Follow this advice to avoid problems: • You’re in your own home. You’re not obliged to buy. anything from anyone at anytime. • Don’t agree to buy anything, or have work done on your property without getting a second opinion. Take your time to make a decision. • If you have any suspicions or concerns, ask the trader to leave, close the door and call the police or trading standards. • Don’t allow any callers or workmen to take you to the bank, building society or post office. Cut this out and display on your door or window:

• Using reasonable care • In a reasonable period of time • At a reasonable price, if not already agreed Any goods supplied should be: • As described • Of satisfactory quality • Fit for purpose If you buy anything costing over £35 at your home, you should be given a written cancellation notice. This gives you 7 days to change your mind and cancel the contract.

If in Doubt, Keep Them Out! Polite Notice

No cold callers and no sellers. Thank you

Distraction Burglary is a term used when someone falsely gains access to a property or home for the purpose of theft. They will often present themselves as respectable, or with a reason for calling, such as: • Water board official • Gas or electric official • Council worker e.g. housing, social services • Property repairs

If you have any problems, or need further advice, contact: Consumer Direct - 0845 4040 506 Trading Standards - trading.standards@liverpool.gov.uk Police (emergency) - 999 Police (non emergency) - 0151 709 6010

Remember - Doorstep Crime can happen to anyone. Don’t let it happen to you.