Lake November 2016

Issue 17 • November/December 2015

The local interest magazine for West Kirby, Hoylake, Meols and Caldy

West Kirby’s World War One Tank • Peregrinations from Afar • Taking care of business

Welcome to the seventeenth issue of The Lake, the local interest magazine for West Kirby, Hoylake, Meols and Caldy.

We would like to thank our readers for your kind comments and to encourage you to keep writing to us with your thoughts and stories.

@lakewirral

We’d also like to thank our advertisers without whom this magazine wouldn’t be possible – we are extremely grateful to them for their continuing support.

The Lake provides local interest and historical stories on a bi-monthly basis and we hope you enjoy it. Please get in touch if there is anything you want to see in future issues, or if you have any stories or pictures of your own that you want to share.

Contact the Editor by email: jon@lakemagazine.co.uk Or by post to: Jon Bion, Editor, The Lake, Royal Standard House, 334 New Chester Road, Rock Ferry, Wirral CH42 1LE. Telephone 07796 945745.

Our team has years of experience in design, production and distribution.

The magazine is delivered door-to-door to 12,500 homes and businesses in the area and copies are available from various outlets.

If you feel that advertising in The Lake would benefit your business, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you. Please contact Alan Strange on 07788 510868 or email: alan@lakemagazine.co.uk www.lakemagazine.co.uk Photographs and original material are submitted at the sender’s risk and must be accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope if you wish them to be returned. The publishers will not accept responsibility for loss or damage.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published, Wirral Advertising Media can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the claims made by advertisers. Any views expressed in The Lake are not necessarily the views of the publisher.

CONTENTS West Kirby shops in times gone by Taking care of business Luxury golf resort project Wine column West Kirby Sailing Club West Kirby’s World War One Tank Peregrinations from Afar Jefferson Air Photography

Contacts: Editor Jonathan Bion 07796 945745 jon@lakemagazine.co.uk Sales Director Alan Strange 07788 510868 alan@lakemagazine.co.uk Accounts accounts@lakemagazine.co.uk

Cover image by Alistair J. Chadwick (www.jeffersonairphotography.co.uk)

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Published by: Wirral Advertising Media Ltd, Royal Standard House, 334 New Chester Road, Rock Ferry, Wirral CH42 1LE.

Delivered free to 12,500 homes and businesses in West Kirby, Hoylake, Meols and Caldy For distribution queries please call 0151 644 9475

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It’s all happening at St Hildeburgh’s What’s on the Big Screen Fabulous festive beauty fixes Alternatives to university Shorelines Ghost story event All Things Auctioneering Fitness Queen

04 The Lake

West Kirby shops in times gone by Heather Chapman continues to tell readers about the project by West Kirby Museum Research Group

Block B6 is between Groveside (originally called Grove Road) and Victoria Drive in Banks Road, West Kirby. The block consists of five attractive three-storey shops. The shops are on the ground floor with residential accommodation above.

Fred Rowlands, bookseller and stationer.

We do not know which buildings these businesses occupied. We have not been able to find out further information about the Liverpool and Mersey District Mutoscope Company Limited. The mutoscope was an early motion picture device, patented in 1894. It provided viewing to only one person at a time. The system quickly dominated the coin-inthe-slot ‘peep-show’ business.

beauty parlour, Mrs Kiernan. By 1966, a shoe salon had opened, followed by Bodell’s interior design shop, ‘Your Choice Interiors’ and ‘Ally Interiors’. ‘Smudge Boutique’ took over the shop in 2012.

This was the first block of shops to be built at the north end of Banks Road.

The owner of the land and the builder was William Watson Christian. The plans were passed on 8 July 1898. The frontages above the shops are decorated in ‘Mock Tudor’ design, the black and white decoration that is so evident in West Kirby during this period. William Christian built many other homes and shops in West Kirby of this design, including The Crescent and The Christian Institute.

Decorative iron and glass canopies cover the pavement area in front of the shops.

The doorways to four of the shops remain unaltered and above the front doors there is a transom window.

Defining the location of each shop is difficult in early records because the shops in Block B6 were not numbered. Numbering was introduced and then altered in 1911, causing great confusion. The five shops were named Roscoe House (now 82, formerly 16), London House (now 84, formerly 18), Bank House (now 86, formerly 20), Osbourne House (now 88, formerly 22) and Deeside Stores (now 90, formerly 24).

Building work must have commenced in 1898 and in 1900 just two businesses were recorded between Grove Road and Victoria Drive. They were the Liverpool and Mersey District Mutoscope Company Limited and

These businesses were very short-lived in West Kirby. There is no sign of the Liverpool and District Mutoscope Company Limited at the 1901 census. (Maybe the residents of West Kirby did not support a peep-show business.) In 1901 Frederick Rowlands, bookseller and stationer, had moved from West Kirby and was living with his family in Seaview Road, Wallasey.

A quick summary of Block B6 shops shows the occupants in chronological order.

No. 82: Madame Rowntree, milliner; Frances Ellen Oxford, millinery and gowns; Stanley Morrison Porter shoe shop, and the present day Front Room.

No. 84: Morris Jacubs, tailor; Thomas Rainford Jackson, printer and stationer; Ferris’s, confectioner; Lloyds, confectioner; The Cupboard Company, a kitchen design shop; and the present day Slinky’s Cafe and No. 86: Mrs Tinker, stationer; Parr’s Bank (the forerunner of Westminster Bank) was there from 1902 to 1928; Mrs Katherine Kelly, cycle dealer; Miss Clare Taylor, hairdresser; Mrs E Wilson, ‘Your Pets’;

No. 88: Mrs Conrad Mollick, confectioner; Mrs Shackle, stationer; Blanche Gregory, confectioner (a casualty of the Lusitania); Richard Finn, plumbing and gas fitting business. In 1918 Alice Flexman Bull had taken over the shop as a massage parlour.

The shop then began its long life as a newsagent/stationer. William Henry Newey was followed by Robert Sweet (what an apt name!), J W Barnes and James Hayes. In the 1950s, the name ‘The Waverley’ appeared in advertisements and the shop was run by J A & E D Gibson. Mrs Wilson owned the property and ran the business for a short while, when her husband ran the grocery business next door. The Waverley was taken over by Tony Dangerfield in 2010.

No. 90: Rowntrees, grocers, were at this premises for about 60 years. The Outrigger opened its first shop in West Kirby at this premises and was followed by ‘The Creamery’, grocers, and then Welsh’s Chemist in 1986.

The West Kirby Museum Research Group has lots of information about Block B6 and has collected over 250 and research files.

If you have any information to add or photographs of any Banks Road shops, please contact Sue Jackson on 0151 625 2298 or Val Frost on 0151 678 8460

06 The Lake

Taking care of business Liam Bailey

By Robert Foster While many dream of running their own business, it seems only the most talented can turn their ideas into a profitable venture.

Alan Sugar’s dim-witted apprentices may talk the talk, but it’s pretty clear they can’t walk the walk. Curious as to what it takes to succeed in the high-pressured world of business, I decided to track down one of Wirral’s most promising young entrepreneurs – Meols’ very own Liam Bailey.

Although a leading light within the local business community due to his work with Wirral Chamber of Commerce, Liam is likely to be an unknown quantity for many readers of The Lake. From humble beginnings, his business foundations were laid through hard work and a flair for web design. He and his business partner, Mark Ainsworth, first dipped their toes into the corporate waters when they launched Max Web almost ten years ago. Things quickly took off as word spread about their dedication to quality, and together they worked tirelessly to cultivate one of the most innovative web design companies around. Max Web’s ever expanding workforce continues to thrive as they work with the likes of Assist Recruitment, the National Health Service, and trade union giants, Unison.

With his charisma and friendly attitude, Liam reminds me of a young Richard Branson and they certainly share values when it comes to running companies with a responsible ethos. As we chatted, it became clear he’s a strong believer in providing opportunities to local young people and as such has given numerous apprenticeships

to them through the highly commended Wirral Apprentice Scheme. It’s refreshing to find someone who is willing to take the time and effort to invest in training and developing young people, who are all too often brushed aside in favour of more experienced candidates. He’s also opened his doors to local schools and regularly offers work experience placements, which goes hand-in-hand with the work Mark undertakes on the Council’s Young Employment Steering Group.

Generosity is not something I’d immediately associate with ambitious business people, but Liam and the Max Web team break the mould and make a point of giving a little something back to those who need a helping hand. Charities including Friends of Katy, Stick ‘n’ Step and the Golgotha Orphans Care Centre in Tanzania have all benefitted from free websites and IT support from Max Web, which Liam modestly plays down as he turns the conversation back to the good work the charities

undertake. However, he was more eager to tell me about his plans for a charity golf tournament, which will see a range of local businesses battling for bragging rights at Leasowe Golf Club next summer. His charity work has also seen him cross paths with some real local legends, and he is particularly proud that he had the opportunity to raise funds alongside the late Howard Kendall shortly before he passed.

With such a range of existing commitments, I would expect Liam to be reluctant to take on more responsibility. But no, it seems his appetite for new challenges is growing just as fast as his business portfolio – he is always on the lookout for new ideas to invest in. And the man with the Midas touch looks like he’s struck gold again as Wirral-based clothing website cersei.co.uk goes from strength to strength. He’s working alongside a team of local fashionistas to bring stylish, yet affordable clothing to the public, and while he admits he knows little about fashion, he clearly has an eye for a promising venture. While I don’t know much about fashion, Liam is adamant that Cersei’s new line of Christmas jumpers is going to be a big hit as the temperatures plummet.

So what’s next for Liam? Early retirement?

A life of beachside pleasure in the Bahamas?

A slot on Dragon’s Den? No, you guessed it… he wants to take on more challenges within local business. His passion for working with ambitious, motivated people is clearly what drives him and it seems he just can’t help but keep his eyes peeled for new investment opportunities.

As our meeting came to a close, I felt I had gained a true insight into what it takes to be successful within business. While a solid plan, thorough financial awareness and organisational skills are vital, they count for little if you lack the energy and motivation to pull it all together. Liam has it in abundance and I know for sure that if I ever have a ‘eureka moment’, he’ll be the first to know.

Liam with Howard Kendall

Solar Update – anxious wait for sector The signs, therefore, are ominous. The trade association for the solar sector has submitted a plan to the government which would keep the sector alive at an annual cost of just £1 to the average bill payer – but as earlier plans have been totally ignored, hopes aren’t high.

The likely withdrawal of support has caused a predictable rush, as Tony Edwards, from Bromborough-based firm, Natural Energy Sources, explains: “Everyone who has previously considered solar is now aware that unless they get a system in and commissioned by the end of the year the payback is likely to be nearer 25 years rather than the current 7-10 years. This spike in demand has caused issues in terms of stock and manpower availability – so much for the government’s pledge to remove ‘boom and bust’ from the sector.”

The message, therefore, is clear – if you think that the UK’s energy security is better served, or the environment better protected, by UK solar, make your voice heard!

The period for people to submit their views on the government’s plan to significantly reduce solar subsidies closed on 23 October, and the sector is waiting anxiously to hear whether the views have been listened to, or the plan to reduce subsidies by 87% put into effect.

As previously reported, however, the government have made it clear that they wish to virtually wipe out the introduction of more renewable technology, and instead commence fracking and bring more nuclear to the UK’s energy mix. This has been further underlined over recent weeks, as plans to speed up fracking projects, and to build more nuclear plants (the first two to be developed by the French and funded by China, the third to be both developed and funded by China) have been confirmed.

08 The Lake

In July this year, a group headed by Jack Nicklaus was confirmed as the preferred developer for Wirral Council’s luxury golf resort project, taking it one step nearer to completion. Ryan Ferguson tells us more...

The concept, which will see the creation of a championship course and an accompanying hotel in Hoylake, first surfaced over a decade ago, but after years of political wrangling, is only now ready to spring from fantasy to reality.

Once completed, the venture will help solidify Merseyside’s status as the ‘Capital of England’s golf coast’, according to officials who have been busy behind the scenes in recent years, seeking investment, surveying the landscape and paving the way for eventual planning permission. The project has been quashed and relaunched on numerous occasions, but now, anchored to a prominent developer, it seems set to go ahead, which will spark passionate debate throughout the peninsula. A golf legend with more major championships to his name than anybody in the history of the game, Nicklaus will have significant control over the design of his Hoylake course. Indeed, he’s vastly experienced in this area, with his company owning some 380 courses in 36 different countries.

This particular complex, to be built on the land adjacent to the famous Royal Liverpool Golf Club, will include an elite course plus a distinguished hotel, clubhouse, and a golf academy for young talent. In addition, it will create new road links through northern Wirral, and be a major source of revenue for the borough. The Council’s ruling cabinet met in late July to discuss the proposals, and promptly gave the green light to Nicklaus’ firm. Now official designs are being worked on, with planning permission expected to be lodged some time in the autumn of 2016. Council leader Phil Davies has been a keen advocate of the project, and his voice was the loudest in the cabinet meeting. “I think it’s great news that we have someone of Jack Nicklaus’ stature backing this development,” said Davies. “It will help put Hoylake and Wirral on the map even more than we currently are. Building a golf resort has long been one of the Council’s objectives,” he continued. “Wirral already has the fastest growing visitor economy in the Liverpool city region, and we see the golf resort as a further chance for us to cement this position.”

Nicklaus wasn’t present at the cabinet meeting, but he did release a video on YouTube, during which he shares fond memories of competing at previous Open championships on Wirral, and expresses a palpable excitement for the opportunity to further enrich the golfing legacy locally.

which is essentially what the Nicklaus plans propose. The loss of lush greenery and wildlife to corporate hotels and expansive golf courses can easily be considered elitist.

After all, what percentage of the local citizenry will have the financial means to play at, and thus benefit from, the venue?

The plans are sure to divide opinion among Wirral residents. In a positive sense, the project would create 168 construction jobs, plus a further 175 on site after completion.

At such a difficult time for employment in the region, that can only be welcomed.

Furthermore, the course would encourage more tourism to Hoylake, which would generate revenue and stimulate growth in the town. Similarly, the promise of better road links through Wirral is intriguing, and the power of Nicklaus’ brand may entice more businesses to open nearby, further enriching the local economy and jobs market.

Perhaps the most positive aspect of the plans would be the accompanying golf academy. At present, local youths hoping to reach the upper echelons of professional golf are often forced to move away or attend college in the United States, which provides better quality training programmes and a more conducive climate. However, the elite academy at Hoylake would remove the need to relocate by improving standards here at home, which represents a tremendous opportunity for future generations on Merseyside. Ultimately, the golf resort forms a central part of the council’s master plan to boost Wirral’s tourist economy to £450 million by 2020. Theoretically, it would create a wealth of opportunity and add lustre to the peninsula’s reputation.

Moreover, when there is a housing crisis at local level, it seems almost inappropriate to use vast swathes of land for an expensive project that would only appear to benefit a fraction of residents. If the council insists on dramatically altering the landscape of that area, couldn’t it be for a more utilitarian purpose? Many people are also sceptical about potential overcrowding and noise pollution once the course is built.

Furthermore, others are frustrated that the project progresses at an almost glacial pace. After all, the concept was launched well over a decade ago, and a single spade hasn’t broken ground yet. Can we trust that the course will be built in a timely and non-disruptive fashion? All of these questions are yet to be answered, which will ensure that the debate rages on in local pubs and living rooms. To some, this is a great opportunity to bring yet more elite sport to Wirral; to others, it’s another sad tale in the increasing urbanisation of a wonderful town. Many feel passionately one way or the other, while some have more important things to worry about. But one thing is certain. This project has the potential to dramatically change Hoylake and its famous seaside landscape.

However, such benefits inevitably come at a cost, and many people are already campaigning passionately for the project to be nullified. The chief concern is that our beloved local area would lose yet more of its innate charm if a huge golf complex was built amidst it. Hoylake has its own identity, and a very rich, clean and historic one at that. By adding another course, the council would seemingly risk the external view that Hoylake is just one big golf resort, when, in actual fact, it is so much more than that. As a rule, people don’t like unwieldy, capitalist ventures impeding nature and tradition,

For better or worse, we’re moving closer to construction. I’ll let you decide whether that’s a good or bad thing.

The Lake 09

The benefits of using a Solicitor as an executor Heather Horsewood, Solicitor, based at Lees Solicitors’ West Kirby office, comments: “The loss of a relative or close friend is a very difficult and emotional time. For those that have the added responsibility of dealing with the estate of that person, they can find the process very daunting.”

The executor of your estate will be responsible for collecting in your assets and distributing them in accordance with your wishes. Wills can be misinterpreted and any mistakes by executors could lead to personal liability. Even the closest of families can see upset and arguments where the division of an estate is concerned.

Appointing a solicitor, or employing a solicitor to deal with a relative’s estate, ensures that the estate is dealt with in accordance with the terms of the will, lessening the burden on family and friends.

Lees Solicitors can help and advise you on the following: • Obtaining valuations of both assets and liabilities of the deceased; • Notifying the relevant people of the death; • Completing the complicated forms needed for HMRC and calculating and agreeing, on your behalf, the amount of Inheritance Tax that will need to be paid (if applicable);

• Applying to the Probate Registry for the Grant of Probate which will give you authority to deal with the deceased’s estate; • Advise you on alternatives which would best accommodate a beneficiary’s needs and in some cases reduce the amount of inheritance tax to be paid; • Collecting in the assets, paying bills and finally distributing the estate to the beneficiaries; • Preparing estate accounts for the beneficiaries.

Heather continues: “We offer a tailored probate service to our clients. You can choose the areas that you would like us to deal with, while you complete the tasks that you feel you can manage by yourself.”

No matter how simple or how complex the affairs are, whether there was a will written or not, our experts can help and alleviate the stress and heartache involved.

If you would like to talk to one of our specialist advisors, please call us free on 0800 387 927 (now also free to call from mobiles) or email info@lees.co.uk, or visit our website www.lees.co.uk

“We received a friendly and professional service…We were particularly delighted with the speed of the service – some other local firms couldn’t fit us in for weeks and weeks… we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone.”

Lees’ Client

Heather Horsewood

A flexible service What Lees Solicitors can do for you…

• We offer free half-hour appointments for anyone who wishes to find out more about our services • Heswall office is open on a Saturday (book for an appointment) •

Three local offices to choose from: West Kirby 0151 625 9364 Heswall 0151 342 6273 Birkenhead 0151 647 9381

• We offer free safe storage of any will • We can register your will on Certainty’s national wills database Let Lees Solicitors make things a little easier for you and your family.

Contact our Wills, Trusts & Estates team to book an appointment or to chat through your requirements. Call us free from either a mobile or landline on 0800 387 927.

10 The Lake

The Lake 11

W NE COLUMN

By Graham Simpson, Whitmore & White

Wines for Christmas Day The run-up to Christmas seems to have become a strangely stressful time. We run around like headless chickens on Christmas Eve because we forgot to buy Aunt Glad a soap on a rope, while being terrorised by reports of an impending snowpocalypse, and being warned that we are all drinking ourselves into cheery oblivion.

I think we all need to stop worrying, take a step back, pour ourselves a big glass of wine and put things into perspective. Granted, cooking for fifteen family members you only see once a year, may not seem like the ideal way to spend the festive period, but let’s face it, it’s only one or two days out of the year and that’s not really worth getting stressed about, because on the 27th December we all go back to normal again until New Year’s Eve… So, with de-stressing, chillaxing and generally maintaining the slack in mind, here are six lovely wines to help you through Christmas Day. Where better to start than with something fizzy? Champagne?

Certainly on the cards, but I think something Italian is perfect to ‘help you focus’ while preparing the dinner. La Farra Prosecco (£12.95 Whitmore & White) is delicious and will match any canapés you serve up to your guests.

Next we should serve up a couple of white wines. Firstly we have Riverby Estate Sauvignon Blanc (£13.95 W&W), a classic from New Zealand – all gooseberry, nettles and blackcurrant leaves. A lovely preprandial white which then leads into a white wine that will be a perfect match to turkey or goose. Mischief and Mayhem White Burgundy (£13.95 W&W) is a Chardonnay made by an English couple who live in Burgundy. They are very small-scale producers and the wines are astonishingly good. The creamy, honey, lemon and subtle buttery character of this wine matches with the richness of the turkey/goose meat and any vegetarian option.

Now moving onto a pair of reds, as most reds will certainly pair with the depth of flavour of both turkey and goose, but alternatively will also match nicely with beef, lamb, pork and game.

Desdemona Postlethwaite Antiques & Collectables

So the first red is Beronia Rioja Reserva (£13.95 W&W). This is a medium-full bodied red with deep wells of redcurrant fruit and vanilla notes. A match for any meat or vegetarian alternative. Next we have Charles Smith Velvet Devil Merlot (£13.95 W&W). This is such a funky wine! Velvety smooth as the name suggests and a perfect partner to anything on the Christmas table (especially pigs in blankets).

Finally it wouldn’t be Christmas dinner without a glass of port to finish. The Quinta do Noval Ruby Port (£11.95 W&W) will pair with both Christmas pudding and with a cheeseboard – if there’s any room left!

So there you have it. Six Christmas crackers for hopefully a stress-free day.

If you would like the six wines above, they can be purchased in-store or on our website at www.whitmoreandwhite.co.uk for the very reasonable price of £80. Also check out our great range of wines, spirits, beers and gift ideas in-store or on our website.

Merry Christmas everybody!

Joe, Jamie, Graham and Laura at Whitmore & White

You can now explore our range and shop online at www.whitmoreandwhite.co.uk

91 Banks Road, West Kirby CH48 0RB Follow us on Facebook

12 The Lake

West Kirby Sailing Club Latest Events

By Jean-Louis Simons GP 14 Open Meeting Saturday 3rd October Sixteen competitors, including five visitors, took part in the GP14 Open Meeting held on the West Kirby marine lake. The format of the competition was intended to maximise racing time with the fleet split into four groups. Each group raced a round robin series of three races to determine a Gold and Silver fleet for the final two races in the afternoon.

The morning races showed a clear favourite, with Lawrence Creaser and Andy Hunter (GP 14174) sailing their P&B powered boat and scoring two wins and a second place. Race wins also went to Peter Skinner and Joe Bethell (having a combined age of 145 years on board!), Steve Stratton and Adam Daniels, Jean-Louis Simons and Mark Hinton.

In the afternoon, the Gold fleet started first, followed five minutes later by the Silver fleet. Lawrence and Andy won both afternoon races with Jean-Louis and Mark finishing second. In the Silver fleets, two very close races took place between Mal Jones/Alex Middleton and Alan Jenkins/ Robert Thompson, Mal eventually winning race four by the slightest of margins.

Unfortunately, a port and starboard incident occurred leaving Simon Harding limping home with a holed GP14.

The races were all extremely close and Lawrence thanked the club and organisers, on behalf of all competitors, for a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Full results: 1st: Lawrence Creaser, Andy Hunter

Nantwich & BC 2nd: Jean-Louis Simons, Mark Hinton WKSC 3rd: Steve Stratton, Adam Daniels WKSC

RYA Youth and Junior Team Racing National Championships We are pleased to announce that our Youth team won this event, with an impeccable 100% wins in their races.

Youth Team: Alex Colquitt, Hollie Marston, Octavia Owen, Amber Riggs, Henry Hughes and Hannah Owen.

The Junior Team, Ben White, Alice Owen, Rob Giardelli, Ella Marston, James Colquitt and Ernie Cockram, sailed in the Feva flights, and were in the thick of the competition, coming 10th.

14 The Lake

West Kirby’s World War One Tank

By Martin Harrison

During the later stages of the First World War, the Government continued to seek funds to support the war effort. Tanks first appeared on the battlefield in 1916, but the first appearance of a tank in public was in London at the Lord Mayor’s Show in November 1917. The demonstration of this new weapon proved very popular with the public and the National War Savings Committee decided to use six tanks to tour the country to visit large towns and cities and sell War Bonds to residents on the streets. The campaign was given the name ‘Tank Banks’. They focused not just on the funding of new tanks, but also submarines, cruisers, destroyers and aeroplanes.

On 16 March 1918, the Chester Chronicle reported that Hoylake and West Kirby had been set the target of raising £40,000 to fund 16 aeroplanes: Chester £100,000 for a submarine and Birkenhead £400,000 for a cruiser! The Manchester Evening News on 15 December 1917 reported that Liverpool had raised more than £2m through the purchase of War Bonds and Certificates – no doubt published to encourage Manchester citizens to raise even more!

towns and cities would receive a tank depending on the size of their contribution and taking into account the population in each area.

West Hartlepool had raised £31 9s 1d per head in only three months and received a tank on 29 April 1919 where it remained till 1939. The Local War Savings Committees were charged, in conjunction with the Local Civic Authority, with arranging for “its reception and disposition as a permanent memorial of the town’s financial effort for the War”.

Arrival The Hoylake and West Kirby News recorded in their ‘Chatter’ column on 3 January 1920 the arrival of the tank, which already hinted at the poor organisation surrounding the arrival of the tank and the future demise of this doubtful gift: “That the district’s war trophy, the tank, was on view in the Wirral Railway Yard during the week.

That it proved a great source of attraction to – the youngsters.

That it was impossible to keep them at a respectable distance.

The Liverpool Daily Post on 18 July 1918 reported the following:

That theirs was something more than a passing curiosity.

West Kirby Aeroplane Week

That they found the opening, penetrated the depths, and enthusiastically explored the mechanism.

The amount collected up to Tuesday night in connection with the West Kirby and Caldy Aeroplane Week is £30,000.

The advert below is drawn from this period.

That they were energetic in the search for souvenirs and their efforts were not altogether fruitless.

That it is not now over-burdened with spare parts.

That as the monstrosity is expected to proceed to the exhibition ground under its own power, the advisability of getting a ‘move on’ quickly is obvious.”

The account of the arrival of the tank in Ashton Park continued the following week:

A means of thanks Once the war was over in 1919, the Treasury decided to give 264 “war battered” tanks to various towns and cities for display in public places in gratitude for their financial efforts.

The War Savings Committee decided which

“Considerable interest was rife last weekend in West Kirby when the tank presented to the district was offloaded at the Wirral Railway sidings and taken to the Upper Park.

A party of soldiers under the command of Lt Hepworth, MC, Tanks Corps, worked all day on Sunday preparing the tank for offloading.

On Monday morning, the tank was taken off the railway truck and proceeded under her own engine power to the Upper Park, to the site where the old bandstand was situated.

Mr TP Bell, chairman of the Council, officially received the tank on behalf of the District, and Mr H Maitland superintended the arrangements at the park in preparing for the reception. Owing to the width of the tank, it was not possible to get her through the gateway, and the railings had to be removed to admit of her progress into the park.”

It was clear that the Council had plans to move the tank to another location (which must have been in the Upper Park as there was no means of getting it across the railway line that separated the two parts of the park in those days), and on 24 January it was recorded that: “It is now proposed to allow it to remain in the present position in the Upper Park. A concrete base is to be made for it to rest on and the engines are to be taken out and returned to the depot. The tank is to be painted and a railing placed round the site. A notice describing the tank and giving its history is to be mounted on the site.

In the park One photo exists of the tank in the Upper Park – this shows the tank on the bank above where the steps run up alongside the terracing (which had not been built at that stage). The trees behind are those that back onto Carpenters Lane. The location had previously been used for a wooden concert platform (not a bandstand as suggested above). There is no sign in the photo of a concrete platform, railings or notices and no record of them ever being provided – this lack of care and maintenance was a factor in its demise, its deteriorating state and eventual removal. However, a hawthorn hedge was planted round the tank at some stage. Cllr Hatton commented in 1929 that “he had seen war tanks in various parts of England, as well as in France and Belgium.

The tank at West Kirby was one of the very few he had seen in a state of neglect”.

While the first tanks were introduced to the battlefield in 1916, Ashton Park’s tank was introduced in 1917, a Mark IV Female equipped with five machine guns (the female tanks were less heavily armed), weighing 27 tons with a crew of eight men. Their first appearance at the Battle of Messines Ridge in June 1917 was reasonably successful during a period of dry weather but at Passchendaele in July, the heavy ground and wet conditions immobilised most tanks.

Later designs (nicknamed Whippets) were smaller, lighter and faster and played a significant part in the Allied victory.

As early as 1922, comments were being made about the desirability of removing the tank. By 1928 the mood of some residents had swung against retaining the tank and a letter was published in the West Kirby News & Advertiser: “Sir – As one who is privileged to walk through the rose garden of West Kirby Park on my way to the city each day, I have much admired the beautiful and varied blooms which have been so prolific this year.

But the pleasure which this charming part of the Park gives me is marred by the sight

The Lake 15 of that ugly monstrosity – the remains of a war tank. It is indeed difficult to understand for what purpose this symbol of human folly and beastliness is retained. If it is meant to demonstrate to the younger generation the horrors of war it fails miserably because it is incomplete. The children who now play around it cannot visualise such horrors as a man with his legs crushed to pulp by its tractors, or another disembowelled or horribly mutilated by its machine-gun bullets. If it is meant to commemorate the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their all, then is such a relic is an insult to their memory. Why not sell this rusty old iron for scrap, or sink it for ever in the deeps of Hilbre, and in its place erect some work of beauty, such as a lily pond or fountain? Surely the residents of West Kirby can appreciate the fact that those who suffered the hell of modern warfare ten years ago do not want this continual reminder of their ‘glorious experience’. Yours, 10th K L R (The King’s Liverpool Regiment)” The decision to dispose of the tank for scrap was made in August 1929 – it was decided that the proceeds of the sale be handed to the local branch of the British Legion (£20 17s 6d was raised). There was general agreement that no disrespect was intended for servicemen, but that both the poor condition of the tank and the other potential uses of the location dictated the need to dispose of it. Indeed, during 1928 the northern half of the Upper Park was levelled and 16 tennis courts built, and in 1930 a tennis tournament was held for residents and visitors. The photograph below, taken around 1940, shows the 16 courts in use for a tournament: the large marquee is positioned where the West Kirby Tank was parked after its last powered journey.

During the war, china tanks were sold as souvenirs in shops across the UK. One such (pictured below) was made by Carlton China for sale by W.M. Newey in his shop at 17 The Crescent, West Kirby. It was emblazoned with a West Kirby crest, is marked HMLS (His Majesty’s Land Ship, an early name for the tank) and contained Crème de Menthe! Photos of the souvenir and a 1915 advert for the W. M. Newey’s shop are shown here.

Surviving tanks: the real ones and souvenirs The only surviving Mark IV Female tank on public display in the UK is at Ashford (this survived because an electrical substation was built into its bodywork!). Others exist in Lincoln, America and Australia. One, dug up from the battlefield in France, sits battered and rusty under a tarpaulin in a barn in Fresquieres after excavation on the site of the Battle of Cambrai.

Note the words at the bottom of the advert for sale of “the latest designs in CHINA with the arms and FLAGS of the ALLIES” With thanks to Heather Chapman of the West Kirby Museum.

Information Martin Harrison is Treasurer of the Friends of Ashton Park. The Friends of Ashton Park welcome new members – contact Dave Wade on 625-6184 or Martin Harrison on 625-8535. If you wish to be kept informed of events, developments, activities and volunteering opportunities contact Martin Harrison and we will send you a regular emailed newsletter. Or you can visit our website www.ashtonpark.btck.co.uk. We welcome photos or other information on the history or our park.

T H E

16 The Lake

R E S T A U R A N T

Festive Menu Throughout December

Festive Dinner – 3 courses £27.50 • Festive Lunch – 2 courses £18.50 Special early sitting – 2 courses £18.50 (before 7pm must vacate at a set time) 1st remove

2nd remove

3rd remove

Fishcakes - cod and salmon with a dill and lemon aioli

Traditional turkey - sausage and herb stuffing, bacon roulade, cranberry relish

Deluxe christmas pudding - with a brandy and cream sauce

Lamb rump - succulent cut of lamb (pink) with a rich gravy and rosemary

Tiramisu - layers of coffee sponge, mascarpone and marsala wine

Beef hot pot - slow roasted daubé of beef, root veg with a red wine gravy

Panna cotta - rhubarb and cinnamon compote with shortbread

Meatballs - our own recipe meatballs in a sun dried tomato and basil sauce Wild boar sausages - caramelised leek and red pepper chutney Chestnut mushrooms - pan fried in a garlic and pesto butter

“Skin on” chicken breast - cream, sherry, sage and onion sauce

Tomato soup - with herb bruschetta and mascarpone dressing

Belly pork - served with apple and apricot stuffing, crackling

Goats cheese fondu - served with toasted ciabatta, fig and pear marmalade

Sea bass fillets - drizzled with a chardonnay and grape velouté

Duck and orange pâté - buttered toast, red onion and apple jam

Salmon - poached fresh salmon fillet with a lobster and dill sauce

Bean stew - butter and bocoti beans, peppers, root veg and coriander

Risotto - peas, asparagus, coriander, tomato and chilli dressing

Beluga bruschetta - beluga tapenade, potato, peppers, asparagus spears

Aubergine stew - a delicious medley of roasted mediterranean vegetables Served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes

Toffee meringue - with cointreau ice cream and butterscotch glaze Selection of artisan cheese - fruit bread, chutney and biscuits

Please note We are closed Boxing Day and New Years Day.

95 Banks Road, West Kirby CH48 0RB – 0151 625 6767 www.milantherestaurant.co.uk

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The Lake 17

18 The Lake

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Would you like to earn extra cash by joining our delivery team?

We are looking for local people to distribute The Lake.

You will need to be reliable and 16 years of age or older.

For further details email: ops@smartdistribution.co.uk or telephone 0151 644 9475

WIRRAL POTTERS

CHRISTMAS POTTERY SALE 28th November – 12th December

Wirral Potters will be holding their Christmas sale of original ceramics, made by 15 potters from Wirral and surrounding area, in the new exhibition space at West Kirby Concourse.

There will be hundreds of useful and decorative objects, large and small, to see and to buy, all made to a very high standard.

Open every day except Sundays from 10-5pm.

Wirral Map Reproductions

Bespoke and Personal Map Service

Christmas Services at West Kirby Methodist Church

We offer a comprehensive mapping service, from one-off high quality prints to a complete mounting and framing package.

All of the high quality prints are faithfully reproduced from our collection of original O/S Maps, (with kind permission of the Ordnance Survey).

All areas of Wirral covered from 1840 to 1950s.

For further information please ring Brian on 07585 778291

or email: wirralmapreproductions@hotmail.co.uk Christmas celebrations start on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29th, with a service on the theme of Hope. This service also provides an opportunity for the congregation to bring gifts for teenagers who are about to leave Care. The following three Sundays will follow the themes of Peace, Joy and Love. All these services start at 10.30am.

Our main Christmas celebrations begin on Sunday, December 20th, at 4.30pm, with an informal family event, ‘Reliving the Christmas Story’.

The events of the first Christmas will be explored through songs, stories and activities. Refreshments will follow and all are welcome to stay for the traditional candlelight service of carols and readings which will begin at 6.30pm and finish with mince pies afterwards.

On Christmas Eve, midnight Communion will be celebrated to welcome the birth of Jesus, with the service starting at 11.15pm.

On Christmas Day, at 10.30am, there will be a family service where all are welcome to bring a present to show, and to celebrate this very special day.

West Kirby Methodist Church is on Westbourne Road in West Kirby. Further details are available on the church website, www.westkirbymethodist.org or by calling the Church Office on 0151 625 3224.

The Perfect Christmas Gift

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Enjoy a bacon butty served with a glass of Prosecco anytime throughout December - perfect after all the Christmas shopping!

Saturday 12th December

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Saturday 19th December

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Christmas dinner, bottle of wine each and the movie for £20!!

Playing their fantastic festive set from 8pm.

A Christmas night out not to be missed!!

Festive starters and puddings also available (additional cost).

Booking essential. £5 a ticket includes festive canapes.

South Parade, Marine Lake, West Kirby Telephone: 0151 625 3882 CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES: Christmas Eve 9am - 4pm, Christmas Day Closed, Boxing Day 10am - 4pm 27th - 30th Open as usual (9am - 5pm), New Years Eve 9am - 4pm, New Years Day 10am - 4pm

22 The Lake

Peregrinations from Afar

by Thursday evening, but it was found at the last moment that it could not be, and accordingly the recital was postponed. Your contemporary somehow managed to report that the recital had been given.”

But, ‘well pleased’, and requests an encore.

“It appears that Dr Peace, of Liverpool, is so well pleased with the new organ at the Presbyterian Church that he has expressed the wish to come again and give another recital, which is a great compliment to the builder, Mr Lloyd” Weatherwise – plenty of ‘white horses’.

West Kirby Public Hall

This series of short articles looks at West Kirby Newspaper Jottings from the past.

Comforts for our workers – innocent recreation.

West Kirby Marine Lake… and at the same time…

“Speaking of the lake reminds us of the effort made last winter to provide the shore workmen with a recreation and reading-room, and which was so successfully carried on by the Rev. Henry Martin at the Institute.

When the Institute was closed for the winter session, it was said that a bowling or quoiting club was being formed for men; but two months have now gone by, and there is no club, nor has anything been done. May we ask how it is? Have the workmen been entirely overlooked now that their labours in building the beautiful promenade have terminated? Their work is very trying, exposed as they are to all sorts of weather, and it would be little enough to provide some means of innocent recreation for the summer as well as the winter months”

We must have had a very enthusiastic and progressive local Council some 115 years ago…

“Work is plentiful and brisk, and is proceeding in all directions at West Kirby: and before next winter the town will be in possession of its new hall, new railway station, and new property of almost every description” West Kirby’s new Public Hall: “the men having come to”.

“The work at the new public hall is now proceeding satisfactorily, the men having come to, so there is a chance of the hall being opened at the beginning of the new year, and that it will be ready for the holding of the coming eisteddfod, which has the promise of being a large success” Proceeding apace.

“The work at the new hall is proceeding apace, and it will be ready for the opening concert, and Meolse-drive (sic) new shops will probably be ready by the new year” Improvements in The Crescent – though other roads need attention.

“There is another improvement that all West Kirbyites will be glad to hear of. The Crescent which used to be in a terrible condition on a wet day, has been asphalted.

This will make it far more comfortable on a wet day. It is a pity that some of our roads were not treated in a like manner”

Conflicting reports about the new organ at West Kirby Presbyterian Church.

“The new organ at the Presbyterian Church has given every satisfaction since the opening by Dr Peace, of Liverpool. The Rev. P.M. Kirkland, the pastor of the church, has every cause for congratulation, all the opening services having brought together large congregations, and several offertories (including 26 pounds taken at the special recital) have provided a substantial sum towards the amount required” However – oops!

“It was with much regret that many West Kirbyites heard on Thursday last that Dr Peace’s organ recital could not come off, owing to the new organ at the Presbyterian Church not being complete. It was expected that the organ would be ready for Dr Peace

“Our foretaste of winter has brought cloudy skies and fierce gales, strong winds from the N.N.W. backing to S.W., &c., and big tides, gigantic waves throwing spray at least 20 feet high, even on the otherwise quiet promenade at West Kirby. Talk about the strong seawaves – they have been seen here in all their glory during the past few days, plenty of white horses and rolling sea” What to wear?

“Bradley’s sell All-fur Elastic Felt Hats, at 3/9, in any shape: as comfortable as a cap – Foregate Street (corner of Sellar Street and 70, Brook Street” For that inclement weather – maybe a refurbish.

“UMBRELLAS Re-covered and REFINISHED equal to new. Ladies’ or Gent’s with the noted B & M Silk, 3/6 each and at all prices from 1/11 to 12/6 – BRADLEY’S, Foregate Street, Chester” Pedal power versus the horrid motor car.

“West Kirby appears to grow much in favour with cyclists. If the weekly Saturday arrivals are any evidence: but one and all are thankful that the horrid motor car racing has ceased, and it is so hoped that the district will see no more of it again” Cyclists are model citizens.

“It is expected that the financial result of the bicycle carnival concert will be an addition upwards of 15 pounds to the Nursing Institution” Local Technical Colleges.

“Speaking of technical education, there is no doubt the success or otherwise of the classes depends greatly upon whose hands they are in – not what they do, but how they do it, and as what ‘what is worth doing is worth doing well’, technical education in Cheshire should be well done, now that it ranges from languages to housewifery and woodwork to cookery. More power to it”

The Lake 23 What to study? There are so many choices! Forefathers would be amazed!

“The technical classes for the winter session have now been begun, and weekly the following classes will be conducted at the National Schools: Commercial arithmetic, French, elementary and advanced shorthand, domestic economy and needlework, wood carving, millinery, laundry, elementary and advanced book keeping, dressmaking, cookery and drawing, freehand, model, geometry, light and shade, &c.: and ambulance classes later in the year. The classes are open to all over 14 years of age at almost a nominal sum. Such is one of the advances of this nineteenth century, with still another year to run. The educational facilities are now very great, for it is a fact that here and elsewhere there are wonderful opportunities for our youth of both sexes to continue their education such as would astonish our forefathers in no small degree” And a must for all students.

“RAPHAEL’S Almanac, 1900, now ready.

Insist on having Raphael’s. Don’t be persuaded into buying any other”

The local Literary Society was very popular and active at this time.

“At last Friday’s meeting of the Literary Society, the vice-president gave a lecture, with lime-light illustrations, on ‘Oxford”, its Colleges, Men and Manners’ to a large audience in the Tynwald Hall” On the next Monday at the same venue.

“The West Kirby Lawn Tennis Club has had a satisfactory season, having ended play with a balance of 42 pounds in hand, and 134 members, which is an improvement upon the old club”

“On Monday, the Rev. James H Martyn gave the last of his very interesting lectures on the ‘Cathedrals of the Continent’, his subject on this occasion being the ‘ Cathedrals of Italy’, illustrated with several very beautiful lantern slides, concluding with St Peter’s, at Rome”

The Boer War gains a mention, pointing out the remiss of the local community.

The Literary Society syllabus for the next session has been finalised.

“The war in Natal is the chief topic of conversation in this district, but nothing has yet been done to raise funds or towards assisting funds which are being raised elsewhere for the benefit of the sufferers by it, which is much to be regretted”

“The Literary Society has issued their syllabus for the coming session, and the arrangements for lectures are very complete. Some few will be held at the Tynwald and the others at the new Public Hall. The work at the Public Hall is proceeding rapidly, so that the Hall will be quite ready for concerts &c.: this winter”

On the sporting field, our local Tennis Club.

A major triumph is the truce and the kiss-and-makeup between the rector and the bell ringers (presumably at St Bridget’s Church) – the bells peal once again.

“We are delighted to hear the old church bells again, which indicated that the ringers had made up their quarrel. And so it was, for rector and ringers had met, and in an agreeable and chatty manner had settled their little differences” Not a golden handshake – but a purse of gold.

“Another pleasing function has taken place since the jottings last appeared, and that was in connection with the departure of Sergeant Eaton, of the constabulary, who has been promoted to Crewe. A purse of gold was largely subscribed to, and it was presented to him (Mr W N Jones presiding) with the best wishes of the subscribers”

Meanwhile at the Christian Institute “The Trustees’ Committee of the Christian Institute celebrated the opening of the winter season by a social gathering of workers and friends on Monday evening, when the Rev. J C Smith, of Upton gave an account of a recent trip in Palestine, illustrated by lantern slides.”

The little seaside town of West Kirby was waking up, with a railway line and station, a Public Hall and a Marine Lake and Promenade all added to the amenities. It must have been a bustling resort in the summer – people under doctor’s orders partaking of the airs, and families frolicking on the shore and in the paddling pool.

Winters were long and cool but as these jottings attest, the town was still busy with many well-organised pastimes and activities. One forgets that these times were very primitive as compared to today.

Next Peregrination – more at the same time.

24 The Lake

The Bowen Technique the brain starts to reorder the signals it is also able to reinterpret the information coming from other areas, an example of why Bowen will often set off reactions in areas that haven’t been treated.

How many treatments will I need to have?

What is the Bowen Technique?

The Bowen Technique is a remedial therapy tool. It is used by therapists mainly to help people who are in pain or discomfort for one reason or another. This is a gentle therapy that works over the soft tissue of the client and features lots of rests in between moves to allow the body to start working with the information. Developed by Tom Bowen, many valid forms of his work exist in the world today.

How does it work?

There have been many theories put forward in the past relating to why Bowen works and there are many people who, conversely, believe that we don’t need to know. They may have a point, but these days there is much more that we can understand and acceptance from the medical community and wider use of the technique by health professionals will come from a better understanding of what happens during a Bowen treatment.

Recently the concept of the way in which the brain reacts to neural stimulus has been looked at in more detail and is the subject of ongoing research by ECBS. The brain emits in the region of 600,000 signals per second, all of which both send out signals and in turn receive information from the body. A muscular movement for example begins from the primary motor cortex at the front of the brain and is sent, via the spinal cord, to the arm or leg where it is translated into movement. In order to gauge this, however, the brain needs to receive a signal telling it what is happening and what to do next and this it does via the parietal lobe of the brain.

The effect is a kind of looping circuit travelling at massive speeds, sending and receiving information. A Bowen move which is a series of gentle rolling moves, followed by breaks at certain intervals, interferes with this signal and creates another set of parameters for the brain to examine. Once

There are no guarantees here because everyone responds differently but, on average, the number of treatments required for, say, a stiff neck or back is around three.

Some problems need more treatments and some even fewer, but what won’t happen is that you will be required to have a long course of treatment, only to find that it hasn’t helped. Although there are never any promises, you should in most cases start to see change fairly quickly.

To learn more about Bowen Therapy or for further details contact Nicholas Tobin Cert. ECBS in Heswall on 0749 659 6969 or alternatively visit: www.wirralbowentherapy.co.uk

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26 The Lake

Wirral’s Leading Independent Garage ease. He attended many training courses at the Mercedes-Benz dedicated training centre, including diagnostics, electronics, drive authorisation, engines and model enhancements. He was also trained to install Tracker systems. In 2008, Tony went on to become a fully qualified MOT tester before leaving in 2009 to set up Benza-Autos.

Established in 2009, Benza Autos are an independent service, repair and MOT centre located in Langdale Court, Birkenhead. All servicing carried out by Benza Autos is in accordance with manufacturer service schedules, saving customers up to 60% off main dealer labour rates. All technicians are dealership trained and certified technicians.

Benza Autos uses Mercedes Benz, Peugeot and Citroen authorised parts and are able to complete your digital service booking online. Due to changes in European legislation block exemption means that

your manufacturer’s warranty will not be invalid if you bring your car to Benza Autos for servicing. All our service prices include a two-year genuine parts and labour warranty and we only use manufacturer recommended fully synthetic oil and lubricants tailored to your vehicle.

Owner of Benza Autos, Tony Davies, began his career at Hall Motors Peugeot, Birkenhead in 1995. In 2002, Tony saw an opportunity to further his career at Mercedes-Benz of Chester (formally Road Range). Tony was able to adapt himself to the new brand with

Manual and automatic courtesy cars or collection and delivery (within 5-mile radius) are available to all customers. The reception area offers a comfortable place to wait with free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee available.

“Our reputation is your guarantee!”

Servicing and repairs carried out by highly qualified technicians in a more relaxed and friendly environment.

Benza Autos are located just two minutes from the Wallasey Tunnel and the end of the M53 motorway.

Benza-Autos, Unit 1, Langdale Court, Birkenhead, Wirral, Merseyside CH41 8DT T: 0151 345 0847 E: info@benza-autos.co.uk W: www.benza-autos-wirral.co.uk

The Lake 27

Let us know how we can help promote your events

The Editor, The Lake, Royal Standard House,334 New Chester Road, Rock Ferry, Wirral CH42 1LE Email: jon@lakemagazine.co.uk • Telephone 07796 945745.

28 The Lake

Jefferson Air Photography form under the right conditions favoured for its slow speeds and wide windows that open. The biggest advantage of a fixed wing aircraft for aerial photography is cost, it’s just a quarter of what a helicopter will cost!

Alistair’s interest in looking down at the earth from the sky started at a very young age when his hobby of aviation and flying machines began. Following a career in the Fleet Air Arm, Alistair left the military, entered civvy street and continued in aviation and engineering.

After many years in the oil and gas Industry travelling the world, Alistair decided he wanted to get back into aviation and grabbed at the opportunity to own and run Jefferson Air Photography.

In addition to operating the Cessna 172 aircraft, Alistair also owns and operates an ex-Royal Navy DHC-1 Chipmunk aeroplane which is somewhat of a classic and often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Spitfire’.

Jefferson Air Photography, owned by Caldy resident Alistair Chadwick, was established in 1984, supplying aerial photography services throughout the UK. Aerial photographs are unusual, attractive, and always pique the curiosity of the viewer. Jefferson Air Photography guarantees to deliver superb oblique imagery in accordance with client requirements.

They are able to fly all year round to all parts of the UK from their strategically placed location in Hawarden. Their unique combination of photographic expertise, flight experience and industry know-how ensures they always provide a high quality service, with customers’ needs at the heart of what they do.

The majority of aerial photography is done with fixed wing aircraft.

Jefferson Air Photography use the high wing Cessna 172 Skyhawk as the workhorse of the business, which is the ideal shooting plat-

In his spare time Alistair enjoys skiing, running and spending time with his fiancée Paula and their four cats (Neelix, Cosmo, Harvey & B’ellana).

As well as commissioned aerial photography Jefferson has an extensive aerial photographic library in excess of 200,000 images with oblique images dating back to 1996. If you need to see the results of your commission quickly, then Jefferson will email a low resolution version to your desktop, tablet or iPhone.

For further information contact Alistair today.

Jefferson Air Photography, Hawarden Airport, Aviation Park, Flint Road, Saltney Ferry, Chester CH4 0GZ Telephone: 01244 520892 Mobile: 07852 148544 sales@aerial-photography.net www.jeffersonairphotography.co.uk

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30 The Lake

It’s all happening at St Hildeburgh’s St Hildeburgh’s, Hoylake, is a warm and welcoming church that is striving to grow – and starting to achieve significant success.

At this time of year St Hildeburgh’s is best known for its spectacular Christmas tree festival, but much more is happening.

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL – featuring live music; fun activities for kids from face-painting to cake-decorating; Santa Claus giving gifts and goodwill in his grotto; a bustling Christmas market with festive gifts, decorations and more; and a café serving tasty hot and cold refreshments. Friday December 4 sees the spectacular switch-on at 7.30pm of 40 fabulously decorated trees, with carols and Christmas songs led by top Wirral guitarist and singer Brian Lupton and friends, followed by wine and mince pies.

at 7.30pm, with songs like Country Roads, Annie’s Song and Calypso by top Wirral performers – Vocal Point, Mark Robinson, Brian Lupton and Timberwolf – all giving their time and talents free for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. Tickets are £8 from the church office (open Wed & Thu 10am– 12.30pm; Fri 2–4pm) or at the door.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES include Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday December 20 at 4pm; a family service round the crib on Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24 at 4pm; Midnight Eucharist at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve; and Family Communion on Christmas Day at 10am.

Sunday December 6: The colourful Christmas tree service at 10am is followed by kids’ activities, Santa, market and café from 11.30am–4pm, ending with a traditional candlelit Christingle service at 4pm.

A NEW CHURCH SERVICE called Open Worship, where the congregation gets a say instead of merely listening to the vicar’s sermon, is held at 6pm on the second Sunday of each month with the next on December 13. Rev Paul Rossiter says: “The topic at the first service was the refugee crisis and what we as a church and individuals can do about it. Plenty of opinions were expressed and we had a lively discussion. It attracted several dozen people – a good mix of our church regulars and quite a few new people.” To emphasise the informality, the service is held in the church hall with refreshments.

The next big occasion is JOHN DENVER COMES TO HOYLAKE – a charity tribute to the late, great singer on Friday December 11

The renowned ‘MESSY CHURCH’ is a bimonthly event with games, crafts, songs and stories for children and their families,

Admission is £2.50 for adults, but free to accompanied children.

Saturday December 5: Kids’ activities, Christmas market and café open from 10am–4pm, with Santa from 11.30am–4pm.

ending with a hot meal, which attracts more than 100 and always overbooked.

ALL-YEAR EVENTS include a ‘bacon butty brunch’ open to all every Tuesday, monthly ‘soup and sandwich’ sessions for those in care and carers, Christianity courses and a series of charity concerts. Church services are held on Sunday and throughout the week, with extra services for care home residents and a monthly Healing Eucharist.

Check out St Hildeburgh’s website at www.sthildeburgh.org or the church office on 0151 632 5339 (open Wed and Thurs 10am–12.30pm, Fri 2–4pm.) For a free copy of St Hildeburgh’s newsletter, the Weekly Beacon, by email each weekend, notify peter.surridge@talktalk.net HOW TO FIND US St Hildeburgh’s Church is at the junction of The King’s Gap and Stanley Road, Hoylake, opposite the Green Lodge.

Rev Paul Rossiter gets into the spirit of things.

Don’t miss Wirral’s finest…

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL at St Hildeburgh’s, Hoylake (opposite Green Lodge) 40 dazzling trees!

Santa’s Grotto!

Fun for kids!

Friday 4th December–Sunday 6th December For details visit: www.sthildeburgh.org or see article above

Help us to turn derelict houses into...

Photo Š Mike Urban, urban75.com

...decent affordable homes for people in need!

If you know of a residential property that has been abandoned or empty for six months or more, please report it to us; we will then contact the owner to offer them the financial support they need to bring their property back into habitable use.

All that we require is the property’s address and any ownership information you have, kindly email this to:

reports@homesavers.org.uk (Requests for anonymity will always be respected)

The Homesavers Charity, Hammond House, North Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4DE

32 The Lake

BRIDGE OF SPIES

Welcome to The Lake film column! Each issue will provide a rundown of what’s on over the next few weeks, including blockbusters, indies and even arts screenings that are available for you to check out.

BROOKLYN

Steven Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies is a dramatic thriller set against the backdrop of a series of historic events that take place during the Cold War. Tom Hanks stars as a Brooklyn insurance lawyer who finds himself thrust into the centre of the Cold War when the CIA sends him on the near-impossible task to negotiate the release of a captured American pilot.

As the glowing reviews begin to roll in, it’s clear that Bridge of Spies brings us a delightful combination of a classy slow-burning political noir and an enthralling espionage thriller. The proven pairing of Spielberg and Hanks alongside the script penned by the legendary Coen brothers is an indicator that these glowing reviews are not to be scoffed at. Opens November 27th.

Also this November: Kill Your Friends – 6th Steve Jobs – 13th Black Mass – 27th Good Dinosaur – 27th

Brooklyn is stunning drama about the experience of people who emigrated to America in the 1950s.

The film focuses on a young Irishwoman who leaves behind everything, including her beloved mother and sister, to pursue a better life in America but finds herself torn between two worlds and two men.

Greeted with laughter, tears and applause, Brooklyn performed exceptionally well at recent festivals, scooping up the top audience award at the Vancouver Film Festival, proved to be a huge hit at last year’s Sundance Film Festival and was also the toast of this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. Brooklyn certainly seems to be on course to be one of the toasts of 2015. Released November 6.

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 2 Three years after The Hunger Games burst onto the scene, the billion-dollar franchise is coming to a dramatic end in Mockingjay – Part 2. Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) struggled through great adversity in the first three films after beating the initial Games and overcoming the devastating loss of District 12, and in Mockingjay – Part 2, Panem is in full-scale war. It is now up to Katniss and her group of rebels to stop the bloodshed by taking on the evil President Snow (Donald Sutherland).

Judging by the new trailers and posters it’s clear that the tone has shifted; what was once a game is now a full-scale war and the stakes are higher than ever. Katniss leading the rebellion into the Capitol is an intense image and really amps up the drama for the franchise’s final installment.

Also starring Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Stanley Tucci and Julianne Moore.

Opens November 19.

During November and December The Light Cinema New Brighton is hosting a wealth of live cinema including theatre, opera and ballet.

ROH Live: Carmen/Viscera/Afternoon of a Faun/Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux.

November 12 and 15 Enjoy four short ballets in one evening with this quadruple programme from The Royal Ballet.

Of Mice and Men – NT Live – November 19 The hit Broadway production Of Mice and Men, filmed on stage in New York by NT Live, comes to UK cinemas. James Franco and Chris O’Dowd star in this ‘riveting, powerful production’.

Branagh Company: The Winter’s Tale – November 26 and 24 The first season of the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company Live promises an exceptional series of plays broadcast to cinemas from London’s Garrick Theatre over the course of a year. The season begins with The Winter’s Tale.

ENO: The Mikado – December 3 Broadcast live from the London Coliseum, English National Opera’s spectacular production of The Mikado is a popular hit with audiences of all ages.

BOLSHOI Live: The Lady of the Camellias – December 6

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS Well it’s the moment many people have been waiting for – Star Wars is back, and it’s bringing along all of the characters we’ve been begging for!

The Bolshoi breathes new life into this tragic masterpiece and accompanied by Chopin’s exquisite score. This production assumes a new emotional and dramatic texture that only the Bolshoi’s dancers can deliver.

Audiences have been teased for months with some of the most refreshing trailers to hit our screens in a very long time. While displaying some legendary Star Wars mythology and iconography, the trailers offer us zero hints as to the plot – resulting in full Star Wars hysteria!

Jane Eyre – NT Live – December 8

The newly acquired Disney franchise is helmed

by J.J. Abrams and welcomes back the majority of the old guard; fan theories are now running wild with rumours such as Luke either channelling some serious Obi-Wan or Dark Side vibes, but at least we know for sure that Han Solo is bringing those scruffy-looking nerf-herder vibes back!

ROH Live: Cavalleria Rusticana/ Pagliacci – December 10 and 13

In addition to welcoming back Hamill, Fisher and Ford we welcome on board Billie Lourd, Domhnall Gleeson and John Boyega in addition to the outstanding Gwendoline Christie, Oscar Isaac and Adam Driver. So it’s over to you Mr Abrams and may the force be with you. Opens December 17 with The Light offering special midnight shows!

Also this December: Christmas with the Coopers – 4th The Night Before – 4th Krampus – 4th By the Sea – 11th Sisters – 18th Heart of the Sea – 2nd

Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever.

This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms.

These two short Italian operas are each regarded as the composers’ masterpiece, and are brought together by award-winning director Damiano Michieletto.

BOLSHOI: The Nutcracker (captured live) – December 14 This beloved holiday classic will enchant the whole family with its fairy-tale setting and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

ROH Live: The Nutcracker – December 16 and 27 Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without The Royal Ballet’s classic production of The Nutcracker!

Craig Barton works within film exhibition at Cineplex’s and Film Festivals and is a former lecturer of film and creative media.

Release dates courtesy of IMDB.com and The Light cinema.

The Lake 33

Fabulous festive beauty fixes

When it comes to how we look and feel, Christmas is the wrong time of year (not that we could or would change it). But think about it – we’re two months in from the clocks going back, which is when we all semi-hibernate and, which in turn, tends to lead to more comfort eating hidden by baggy jumpers, less fresh air and generally feeling sluggish. We are then hit with the rush of Christmas shopping and with so much to do, how we look is normally pushed to the back of the queue.

5. Light therapy: A lifting experience. Although more ‘advanced’ rather than a ‘quick fix’, light therapy is an incredible treatment. I should know I’ve used it myself for more years than I care to remember. Fantastic for improving skin tone and texture, which both suffer during the winter and even more so at busy times such as Christmas. It also combats the effects of ‘SAD’ (Seasonal Affected Disorder), to boost your mood as well as your skin. With no UVA or UVB light it’s also very safe.

To help you feel great for the Christmas season, Tracey Locke, lead clinician at Serenity Clinic Ltd, has some fantastic pick-me-ups and quick fixes so you’ll look fabulous throughout all the festivities.

6. ‘Mineralise’ your make-up: We tend to wear more make-up at Christmas and applying the correct foundation is a must. I have been recommending mineral make-up for nearly 15 years, as it allows your skin to breathe while still providing great coverage. Bare Minerals make-up is “so natural you can sleep in it” – not that I would advocate that.

1. HD brows: Lost brows, gaps and disappearing tails? When this happens, your features lose definition. This seven-step technique not only eliminates unwanted hairs, but also adds beautiful shape and colour to enhance your face shape and complexion. It also lifts the eye area, which instantly makes you look rejuvenated. One client calls it her “secret eye lift”.

2. Semi-permanent lashes: Whether it’s due to preparation or partying, we all tend to look tired at Christmas, especially around the eye area. Rather than make-up, semi-permanent lashes are an instant ‘wake up’. They open your eyes and add length and volume to give you a wide-awake look. They also save the time and effort you’d need to spend on using mascara or disposable lashes.

A professional technician will apply individual lashes to suit your age and desired shape. I love mine just on the outer eye, the same length as the natural lash.

3: Teeth: A whiter shade of pale. We smile a lot at Christmas time, even if it’s not always genuine (as you thank someone for the socks and hankies), so make sure your smile is bright with teeth whitening.

It can take as little as 15 minutes and make your teeth up to 12 shades lighter, so you’ll have a smile that will dazzle for all the right reasons. Please check their registration with local authority/governing bodies for clinics and dentists offering whitening.

4. COMCIT™ facial: Whether you’re stressed with shopping or partied out, it’s a busy time and this can be literally written all over your face through dull skin, poor texture and lines or wrinkles. With hyaluronic acid for hydration, skin-rollering to infuse active ingredients deeper into the tissue, oxygen infusion to enhance cells and their production and a mini lift mask – it’s a must to keep you looking great for the party season.

7. Universal contour wrap: Although not as permanent as more advanced body contouring, it produces instant inch loss so you can zip up that dress and feel great. It’s the ideal quick fix for the party season when good food and party clothes don’t always make for a good mix.

8. Look fan(tan)stic: A spray tan will give you an instant confidence boost, making you look slimmer. Opt for a shade that looks natural against your real skin tone and remember: orange doesn’t suit anyone’s complexion. Professionals will offer different shades to suit your individual skin and desired outcome.

9. Don’t tear your hair out: Let someone wax it. Shaving legs and other areas requires constant maintenance. Waxing will see you through the season so you can wear short dresses, sleeveless tops or even your slinkiest underwear without the worry of stubble. An added bonus is the exfoliation effect that gives you smoother skin.

10. Festive finger (and toe) tips: Gel nails or Shellac can last up to four weeks, from pre-Christmas drinks well into New Year. Plus with the wonderful colours available in this season’s ranges they’re the perfect way to ensure a little festive sparkle at all times.

Happy Christmas xx Serenity Clinic Ltd, 162 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 0RH T: 0151 625 6256 www.serenity-clinic.co.uk

34 The Lake

Alternatives to university Top tips from a UCAS Adviser

By Susanne Christian Anyone who’s applying to uni this year may be feeling that the pressure is on with some UCAS deadlines already passed and others looming in January.

leaver schemes or A level schemes. It doesn’t really matter – they all combine employment and training, working for the company, training in the practical aspects of the job and gaining qualifications. And, maybe best of all, earning rather than building up a student debt.

Find out more There are some places to look for school leaver schemes with information and, importantly, vacancies to search and apply for. Websites include

Is university the right choice?

• www.apprenticeships.gov.uk

Sometimes it can feel as though uni is the only route open to school leavers. It’s a great option for people who

• www.notgoingtouni.co.uk

• enjoy studying

Prestigious employers

• know their chosen career requires a degree.

Companies also advertise their schemes on their own websites. Any company or organisation which sounds interesting is worth Googling to see what they offer. Just search for their careers, recruitment or ‘work for us’ pages. Here’s a few examples:

But university is only one of several options and isn’t the right choice for everyone.

What if your child or grandchild • is struggling to deal with the workload?

• gets very nervous during exams?

• has had enough of studying for exams and can’t wait to get into the world of work?

• worries about the idea of big student debt?

Other options One very good alternative is a school leaver programme. You may be aware of graduate training schemes, which many people go on to after they finish at uni.

Many companies now run similar schemes for candidates with good A levels. Some offer apprenticeships, others are called school

• schoolleavers.milkround.com

• Network Rail Advanced Apprenticeships – a 3-year programme, paying over £150 a week, with opportunities for degrees and Masters in engineering.

• Civil Service Fast Track Apprenticeship – a 2-year programme in chartered a ccountancy, software development or cybersecurity, among others.

• John Lewis Advanced Retail Apprenticeship – working towards their Management Programme as a full Partner.

• Jaguar Land Rover Degree Apprenticeship – leading to a BEng in Applied Engineering or a BSc in Accounting.

As you can see, this small snapshot includes some of the North West’s top employers. So there’s no need to think of these schemes as ‘second best’ to university. It may take longer to get a degree because it’s combined with working, but trainees end up in the same place as their peers who went straight to uni.

And they have valuable industry experience which others on full-time degree courses may not get.

Applying All the school leaver schemes have different closing dates. Some are only open for a very short time – typically, a few weeks early in 2016. Keep your eye on the websites – and register for alerts.

Getting in There is no catch. These schemes are as good as they sound, so competition to get on them can be fierce (just as much as getting onto some uni courses). What will your child or grandchild need in order to secure a place?

• good grades • excellent Maths and English • the right subjects (this varies, e.g. Maths for accountancy or engineering) • motivation for a career with the company • relevant experience can help (or any experience of the world of work).

Applications for top school leaver programmes have to be as carefully put together as a UCAS application. Your child or grandchild needs to tell the company what they have to offer and why they want the job.

If you want support with your application get help from a professional. Book an appointment with Susanne Susanne is a fully qualified careers adviser with over 15 years’ experience of helping young people and adults with applications in schools and colleges. This is what clients say: I was most impressed by the way the career guidance practitioner had grasped my situation and was then able to give practical solutions Susanne is a highly authoritative professional in her field with a manner and approach that instils total confidence in her clients Susanne can offer experience and knowledge of what is expected by recruiters

The Lake 35

Shorelines

By Stephen G Baker

As you walk about West Kirby or the wider area, do you ever wonder about the history of the area? Are there lessons that we can learn from things that have happened in the past? I am sure there are!

It seems to be quite natural and normal to have a fascination with the past.

This fascination with past life is both wonderful and exciting! So back to the past, or ‘Back to the future’ might be a more appropriate title as we celebrate its 25th anniversary.

It has been famously said that: “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” This quote was originally attributed to George Santayana; however, Winston Churchill seems to be the one who made the statement famous. If my research is correct, I think that the statement originally was: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

So what lessons can we learn from the history of our area? It would be interesting to get feedback from some of our older readers, as I am sure they can recall many things from which we can learn important lessons.

Here is one local incident that can teach us some important lessons. We all know that West Kirby has a Victorian promenade, flanked by the West Kirby Marine Lake that permits boats to sail even at low tide. The original wall was built to create the lake in 1899, but suffered a catastrophic leak in 1985.

A new lake was then constructed on the site, which is wider than previously and allows better sporting opportunities. What can we learn from this?

Man-made things don’t last forever? Sometimes things happen when we least expect them!

We need to be aware of the condition of things so that we can make changes when necessary.

Anyone who reads this column regularly will know that my aim is to heighten awareness of the human condition of sin and the provision of salvation through Jesus Christ. Any sober reflection on the human condition would need to conclude that we are flawed. No one is perfect – “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”. Like the wall of the Marine Lake we may not notice any deterioration, but it becomes obvious over time and the end result is disaster. Again the Bible states “the wages of sin is death”.

Can our condition be rectified? Indeed it can, for the Bible also states that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”. It make the method of repair simple when it says “If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.

I hope you have a good month and look forward to hearing some of your stories of lessons we can learn from the history of West Kirby and the surrounding area.

Please note that all quotations in this column are from the Bible.

www.findingthemissingpeace.blogspot.co.uk www.seekthetruth.org.uk

Ghost Story event A Ghost Story event organised by Charles Lea from Read Now Write Now was held on 29th October at West Kirby Library.

Around 20 children attended and listened to three modern ghost stories told by the narrator, a Victorian gentleman, who has been collecting ghost stories from children for the last 150 years! These included Evie’s story of a boy who hid in people’s attics and Alfie’s story of the return of the ghost railwayman.

Prizes for the scariest girl and boy were donated by the Red Balloon Toy Shop and Big Al’s Barbers respectively and Morrisons provided toffee apples for all the children. A collection for Claire House Children’s Hospice was made.

The picture below shows the winners, from left Laura Pringle, West Kirby Library, Ruby Brookes, Alfie Carney and Charles Lea. Read Now Write Now will be working with WK Library and telling more stories over the Christmas period.

36 The Lake

All Things Auctioneering

by John Bathurst Crane

Promoting at Wirral Business Fair

It appears to me that, these days, far too many people in business seem to rely on their websites doing all their work for them. I am not convinced that people are over impressed by glossy, glitzy websites that promise everything. If websites are too elaborate, I tend to delete and then delete again.

Cato Crane is up and on the road again meeting people face-to-face, not on a flat, glaring computer screen. I am fast coming to the realisation that meeting people in the real world, rather than in cyberspace, is a much more pleasurable way of spending my working days.

People are often much more interesting than the objects they have in their homes when I’m invited to appraise furnishings for sale.

When items for sale are of low value, people often apologise for wasting my time. But I can assure you that no home visit is a waste of time – I strongly believe that if you treat people properly and courteously they will recommend you to others. I have been known to be outspoken about businesses that obviously put themselves first before their clients. To me, every phone call and client enquiry is of the utmost importance.

Some years ago during the winter months, I clocked up nearly three talks and presentations each week for various Women’s Institutes across the region. We are again giving talks to groups of people in Wirral; perhaps not quite as many as three a week, but not far off that! There seems to be a demand.

We recently took a stand at the Wirral and Chester Business Fair in New Brighton’s Floral Pavilion which gave me the opportunity to meet and chat to a hundred people or so during the day.

me plenty of scope to go ‘off-script’, which often happens as I recall incidents over the last 40 years of home visits. My wet footprints made many years ago in a newly laid concrete front drive spring to mind... they are still there as I found out when I visited the same property with new owners recently.

The autumn is with us now, so it’s time to review some of the Wirral discoveries over the last two months during my travels.

People often ask if there are enough good quality items around these days to support a good auction room. We always think that the supply will run out, but we do have an enormous client base which we have built up and there are many solicitors and accountants with healthy probate practices who support us very well. We work extremely hard to keep a good reputation.

It has taken over 30 years to build our business, but all the hard work in the past stands us in good stead these days.

Venice by Antione Bouvard

Massier Elephant

Elephants are good news, especially if they are large and made by the French company of Massier in about 1890. The one illustrated is of a good size and is made in several different colourways. This particular one, despite a small amount of damage which can be restored, is still worth in excess of £2,000. Massier pieces are not common in the UK but they are the French equivalent of our Minton factory, which are very well known for elaborate conservatory and garden pieces.

David Shepherd painting

Talk at Heswall Arts Festival

As I write, the fifth annual Heswall Arts Festival is well under way and I presented a talk at Avanti Coffee Shop, which seemed to be well received by those who attended. The title of my talk was ‘All Things Auctioneering’, a phrase coined by Steve Evans of Clatterbridge Radio where I present a monthly programme. I think some royalties are due to Steve soon! This title gives

A picture by the well-known artist David Shepherd, who is better known for his animal subjects, including elephants, made over £20,000 (including premium and VAT) in our last Fine Arts Auction in Liverpool. The subject of this painting is air battle in the skies over Britain; it might not now be to everyone’s liking, but, nevertheless, it is still a fine example of the artist’s work. Another still popular C20th artist is Antoine Bouvard. His pictures continue to command good interest in the auction rooms and find many willing bidders. Venice is one of his popular subjects, such as in the one illustrated.

Spitfire detail

When it comes to furniture, you must buy pieces that fit your house. If you live in an early cottage then you need to find smaller than average pieces and for this you will pay a premium because small C17th century pieces of say, oak furniture, are hard to find in fine condition – therefore they will be expensive – perhaps up to three times the price of a similar, later and larger piece.

These days it has to be a combination of style, quality, condition and desirability. The question to ask is always: “If I gave this piece to one of my 25-year-old young relatives would they be delighted with it?” If the answer is no, then the piece is generally not very saleable for a high price. This is, of course, not always the case, as some early pieces are sold for rarity value. If you are looking for a particular piece, then please telephone me, and I can probably point you in the right direction toward a reputable supplier.

An interesting and rare piece I discovered recently in Wirral is this illustrated rocking horse.

Made in about 1850 it has great ‘Victorian nursery’ style. It does need specialist restoration, which would cost a bit of money I think, but in this case it would be worth the expense and effort; restored and in a London specialist retailer of antiques it could well be priced at tens of thousands of pounds. There is a ready market for such rare and beautiful statement pieces.

Over the years I have seen many rocking horses, but the lines of this one are particularly fine and the sweeping curved full-length rockers make it very special.

Every year we auction thousands of pieces of jewellery. Once again, it is high-quality pieces with a good design element that do well. Old-fashioned five-stone diamond and dark sapphire rings that granny would have worn are not so desirable and remaking them into something else would generally be extremely expensive. My advice is to dispose of these now and then acquire a piece you can, and will wear for those special occasions.

The Lake 37

Sunset over Moel y Gest

Wedgewood Pie Dish

Fashionable jewellery

Amber beads seem to have rocketed in value over the last few years, but only a certain pale yellow colour with the appearance of ‘scrambled eggs’. We recently sold a string of these beads for over £4,000. A few years ago, they could have been found in many flea markets for a few shillings.

Our annual Beatles Auction at the Liverpool Institute For Performing Arts was once again successful. High prices were achieved for some Paul McCartney drawings – five small sketches made over £2,000 each and some Wirral vendors will be pleased with the results. Once again though, only the rare items were in demand by international collectors.

So, the rule for most things is to sell now while the prices are still good. Fashions are changing and prices for some types of collectables may not hold up forever.

At one of my recent talks, I was asked if Liverpool Herculaneum pottery was worth buying or holding on to. My reply was that most younger collectors would probably not want it now and the people who once understood this pottery are no longer with us and, therefore, the selling market has declined greatly. Again, my advice is to sell now before it is too late and there is no market for it at all.

On the other hand, I have illustrated a Wedgewood pie dish made in the C18th. They

were made by hand in moulds and 4,000 were produced in the first year, such was their popularity at the time. These are not commonplace and would possibly still bring a good price at auction; I see one every two or three years.

One of my recent favourite items was a chromium-plated jet fighter table cigarette lighter. I have one in my collection – these items are both very emotive and have good lines of style – not to mention being a good after-dinner talking point for those who partake of Sir Walter’s evil import!

My ‘Weekend Wanderings on My Welsh Odyssey’ are sadly at an end for another summer.

My final walk ended up overlooking Moel y Gest near Portmadog as the sun set, followed by a dash to Criccieth for the best fish and chips in the world on Castle Hill and the best view in the world across the moonlit bay towards Harlech.

For the next few months, it’s back to work and the search for fine objects for auction will take all my endeavours.

Thank you for reading my antiques articles.

Please telephone me on Chester 01244 680055 or Liverpool on 0151 709 5559 or mobile on 07836 209995. And do remember that if you are considering bringing items to us at the auction rooms, you can park right outside our front entrance door – and it’s free!

We have two websites CatoCrane.co.uk and 5CountiesValuationCompany.co.uk where you can read the articles I write for the Liverpool Echo.

Follow me on Twitter on @CatoCrane for my daily tweets.

I look forward to meeting many of you over the next few weeks. Please stop me and chat when you see me around in Heswall. I will never be weary of chatting about my discoveries.

Good hunting and happy antiquing to you all.

Jet Cigarette Lighter

To sum up for the time being... fine quality is selling very well with very high prices. Low quality does sell, but only at a certain level, and damaged items, unless they are very rare, do not justify the expense of restoration.

Moonlit Tremadog Bay

38 The Lake 4. You may not see the results you’re expecting.

Lifting weights creates tiny tears in your muscles that can only repair during rest. This repair process is what makes your muscles stronger than before. Having strong, lean muscles gives you shape and definition. If you don’t give your muscles time to repair, your tone will take longer to appear and you risk the chance of injury.

5. It eats up your limited free time.

Relax and put your feet up!

You may think it’s odd hearing a Fitness Coach tell you to relax and not work out. Surely they should be telling you to lift some weights and get pounding the treadmill? Here Zara Wylie, Head Fitness Coach of Fitness Queen, talks you through why rest days are just as important as the work out itself.

Hitting the gym or pushing yourself to exercise every day is time-consuming. It’s hard enough to maintain a work-life balance without throwing workouts into the mix. The general advice is that 60 minutes of high-intensity exercise three times a week is sufficient. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy time with the family, friends or just time for you.

If you feel that you need some help and advice, don’t forget that we are here to help with one-on-one personal training, individual nutrition plans, and, of course, our well-loved group exercise classes!

FITNESS QUEEN OF THE MONTH

In our all or nothing world, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of training every day. But when it comes to your workouts, it pays to have a rest. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not telling you to avoid exercise, but rather to plan some days off into your workout schedule. Need convincing? Here are five reasons why you should relax and put your feet up.

1. Overtraining can cause a weight-loss plateau.

I’m sure that you know that working out too often or doing too intense a workout can cause you to lose too much weight too quickly. Few people know that the opposite is also true.

When you overtrain, your body’s built-in protective mechanisms kick in and can cause your weight to plateau.

2. It can affect your sleep cycle.

If you find that you are having trouble sleeping, even when you are extremely tired or are sleeping to excess, overtraining could be to blame. Working out releases adrenaline – this causes your body to be more alert, which means that sleep doesn’t come as easily. At the same time your body needs rest in order to repair and recover after a workout, which means that you are sleeping more than normal.

3. It often leads to burnout.

Life is about balance. We all have limited resources – time, energy, money, physical reserves – and spending too much of them on exercise can lead to burnout! It’s better to commit to a sane programme that fits in with your schedule and goals, than to go all-out and want to quit after one month. Exercise is a lifelong pursuit, and it should make you happy. Find a balance that works for you.

Hannah Leeman

Well done to Hannah Leeman who we’ve chosen as our Queen of the Month. She lost 5lbs in her first 21 days and is continuing on the good work. I can’t wait to see what she will have achieved once she reaches the end of her Little Black Dress eight-week plan!

Newsletter We recently launched our new website and we couldn’t be more excited! Why not pop over and check it out, and while you’re there you can subscribe to our newsletter for loads of hints and tips.

Website: www.thefitnessqueen.co.uk Email: zara.wylie@gmail.com Call: 07702 844984 Twitter: @fitnessqueenuk# Facebook: Fitness Queen

OUR SUCCESS IS BASED ON THREE IMPORTANT FACTORS Product Range We select our products and suppliers very carefully on the basis of quality, range, price and reputation.

For over 40 years Jim Barrow Motor Factors have been providing high quality car parts to local garages.

Formed in 1970 by Jim Barrow Snr to provide a high-quality service based on strong personal relationships, the company still reflects these values in day-to-day operations.

Our success led us relocate to new 5,000 sq ft premises close to the motorway network, allowing us to stock an even larger range of parts and ensure a fast service.

Staff Our team of well-trained and motivated employees is dedicated to ensuring that our customers enjoy the best possible service.

Our comprehensive knowledge of the motor parts industry coupled with the widest possible range from the best suppliers means that we can guarantee a price that is always competitive.

Service We know that speed and accuracy of delivery are important, that is why we have invested in a delivery fleet that provides a fast same day FREE delivery service.

jim barrow TELEPHONE 0151 609 0609 8 Durley Park Close, North CheshireTrading Estate, Wirral CH43 3DE

www.jimbarrow.co.uk

At Simon Kershaw & Associates Limited our highly skilled and experienced professionals look forward to working with you to find the most effective way to meet all your financial needs.

Do you have Pension Policies?

Do you know what they are worth?

Where they are invested?

How much can you get out of the policy and when?

Do you have an ISA earning less than 2% per annum?

Do you think this is a good rate?

How much tax you will pay, can the tax be avoided?

Would you be interested in an ISA potentially grossing over 5% per annum?

Is it worth paying more in?

With immediate access and no penalties?

Why not contact us for a FREE, no obligation appointment Simon Kershaw & Associates Limited, The Old Bakery, 72 Sandy Lane, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 3JA Telephone: 0151 625 4448 • Email: info@simonkershaw.com • Website: www.simonkershaw.com