Private Life Liverpool Issue Four by Trevaskis Communications

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PRIVATE CONTENTS 52

CONTENTS

FEATURES 11 Private Life looks at Liverpool’s forgotten castle 12 We discover what Liverpool

means to the city’s famous ﬂorist

36 Two fab shows are on at the

Empire Theatre this spring

38 Tate Liverpool’s latest exhibition is all about glam 42 Private Life catches up with jeweller David M Robinson 60 Elaine Cunningham

26 Dentists head for Morocco 27 Find out why contact lenses are the way forward 28 Get new teeth in a day 30 Stay fabulous with Urban Calm’s guide to all things beauty 53 Boost your brain this spring 54 Our guide to Cardio Tennis FOOD & DRINK

shares her tips for curtains

50 The magic of Prosecco

63 The fascinating story of Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral

51 Discover awarding-winning Italian restaurant, Il Forno

FASHION

TRAVEL

13 We showcase men’s designs with a modern art twist

44 Discover the wonders of India in this whirlwind tour

14 Our print-tastic photoshoot 48 Hawaiin eyewear brand 21 We examine the artistic

print trend in women’s fashion

56 Holidays without limits

59 It’s all about wildlife in Private Life’s guide to style

REGULARS 4 Editor’s Letter 7 Private Diary 23 Private Society 57 Business

HEALTH & BEAUTY 42

Maui Jim is having a moment

22 Urban Calm reveals the Bump of the Year winner

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4 PRIVATE LETTER

Editor

Clinton Stuart-Lane

Production Editor Colette Campbell

Sub-Editor

Jennie Musgrove

FROM THE EDITOR...

Graphic Design Craig Bowyer

Fashion Photographer Kirstie McNulty

Fashion Assistant

Ashleigh Cunningham

Product Photographer Robin Clewley

Artwork Editor Jamie

Grifﬁ

ths

Health Editor

Summer is now on its way, so the thermals can go back in the draw for another six months and the garden chairs can be brought out of the shed in time for the ﬁ rst rays of sunshine.

Kathy Sandison

Contributors

Ged Flanagan, Claire Wood, Alice Anastasiou, Maggie Birch, Kellie Wilson, Peter Roberts, Kris Tisdale

We have put together our spring diary to keep you entertained (p. 7) with everything to warm your spirits as we prepare for some much needed vitamin D.

Food & Drink Editor Arabella Whittaker

Culture Editor

Harley Grosvenor

In this issue, we take a step back in time to spotlight the importance of Liverpool’s forgotten castle (p.11), we showcase the artisan nature of fashion today (p.14) and we see what a Mr and Mrs Private should be wearing this season (p.13 and p.21).

Sports Editor

Jason Matthews

Travel Editor

Sarah Lancashire

Moving into a new season can be tricky for our bodies, but our health experts tell us all we need to know to get us through the next few months, from how to care for our skin (p.31), to which contact lenses to wear (p.27) and how to achieve the perfect smile (p.28).

Editorial Assistant Clare Ainsworth

PR & Marketing Manager Lauren Walker

Head of Finance Joan Alcoolique

The incomparable Matthew Bourne returns to the stage at the Empire Theatre this season (p.36) and Tate Liverpool hosts a fabulous new exhibition, Glam! (p.38). With the wedding season fast appraoching, David M Robinson show us how to tie the knot in style with their beautiful range (p.42) and Crown Travel helps us to discover a destination beﬃ ting not just the newlyweds, India (p.44). Spring is a time of new beginings, change, and prosperity. As you enjoy your Easter and crack open those eggs, we hope you also enjoy another issue of Private Life.

04 PRIVATE LIFE

Group Director Luke Trevaskis

WE’VE MOVED!

Trevaskis Communications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every effort is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Trevaskis Communications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Private Life is brought to you by Liverpool’s Private Circle: Mrs Margaret Gibson

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PRIVATE LIFE

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PRIVATE DIARY

Private Diary

MAY Liverpool Sound City Spread out over 25 venues across the city, with over 360 artists (who have previously included Florence And The Machine and Ed Sheeran), Liverpool Sound City is the largest international ﬁ lm, music and digital festival. So get involved and see a rising talent, discover a hidden gem of a location or listen to an expert speak. Tickets from £15, find out more at www.liverpoolsoundcity.co.uk

APRIL Grand National As spring starts to approach and the sun begins to peer out through the clouds, a true Scouser’s thoughts begin to turn to the Grand National. With The Saturdays conﬁ rmed as the opening act, the races are not to be missed. So pull out your gladrags and get down to Aintree Racecourse from 4th-6th April. Tickets available from www.aintree.co.uk

MARCH One Direction These ﬁ ve boys beat even the Beatles when their debut single raced in at number 1 in the US charts and now they’re bringing their tour to us. Get ready to sing ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ and ‘Kiss You’ along with millions of screaming teens. Get your tickets now from www.echoarena.com

JUNE Paloma Faith Paloma Faith brings her unique and distinctive sound and style to the Empire this June for a concert that is bound to be spectacular. Described as soulful and jazzy, Faith is one of the country’s biggest talents and not to be missed when she heads our way. Get your tickets from www.atgtickets.com

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PRIVATE DIARY

APRIL The City That Rocked The World Liverpool has produced more successful artists, albums and singles than any other city in the world and, this April, the Philharmonic is celebrating our record-breaking accomplishment with The City That Rocked The World. This documentary is jam-packed with exclusive and forgotten footage all about our musical heritage. Add to that an after-party at Camp and Furnace and you’ve got a fantastic night out. Tickets from £12 available at www.liverpoolphil.com

MARCH – MAY Glam! The Performance of Style This Spring, Tate Liverpool is taking us back to the days of David Bowie and all things grand with its latest exhibition, Glam! Ranging from ﬁlm, installation art, paintings and sculpture, this exhibition gives a brilliant insight into the phenomenon of the early 1970s, with work from David Hockney, Andy Warhol and Cindy Sherman amongst many others. The exhibition will run until 12th May, learn more at www.tate.org.uk

MARCH Wine Evening Herald in the start of spring with Sefton Park Palm House’s Wine Evening. Liverpool’s ﬁnest independent wine sellers, along with the Liverpool Cheese Company, will be on hand to answer all your questions so you can throw the perfect summer soiree. Get your tickets fast as the autumn event sold out last year. Visit www.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

MAY Light Night Light Night is your chance to explore our city’s museums and galleries after hours. Previously there have been underground tours, candlelit labyrinths and ceilidhs, so be sure not to miss out this year on what is one of the hottest events in Liverpool’s cultural calendar. Complete with an iPhone app this year, it is a night that promises to be better than ever before. Light Night 2013 is on 17th May from 4pm onwards. Visit www.liverpoollightnight.co.uk 08 PRIVATE LIFE

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Call us today on 0151 236 8280 Visit us online at www.liverpoolimplants.co.uk If

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Liverpool Dental Spa Winners of

Best Dental Practice 2008 Best Dental Team 2009 The Dentistry Awards

Tooth Whitening £295

Offer until end of Easter 2013. Gift Vouchers Available

Dr Dominic O’Hooley BDS Liverpool MFDS RCS (Eng) GDC number 69316 Cosmetic Dentist and Implantologist at Liverpool Dental Spa

To arrange a £35 consultation to discuss your options with Dr Dominic O’Hooley, call 0151 236 8280 now. Liverpool Dental Spa, 23-25 Brunswick Street, Liverpool City Centre, L2 0PJ. Call us on 0151 236 8280 Like us on Facebook at LiverpoolDental, Tweet us at @LpoolDentalSpa

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PRIVATE LIFE

liverpool’s forgotten castle Clare Ainsworth uncovers the truth behind Liverpool’s once prominent castle tand outside the Crown Courts building, look up Castle Street towards the Town Hall and there you have what would have been the view from Liverpool’s forgotten castle. Built at some point during the 1230s by William de Ferrers, 4th Earl of Derby, it stood on the highest point of the city, overlooking the Mersey and protecting the port. From proprietors such as Robert de Ferrers, who rebelled against King Henry III and was consequently imprisoned in the Tower of London, to rebellions against the castle (the Banastre Rebellion lasted only one hour in 1315), the castle was destined for a ﬁtful trajectory. Fast-forward to

1642 and our castle, like our country, was embroiled in a bitter battle between the Roundheads and the Royalists. Prince Rupert had taken control of the castle but civil unrest throughout Great Britain had resulted in Liverpool witnessing the latest battle in the civil war. Liverpool’s trade routes to Ireland made the city a crucial one, but Prince Rupert had underestimated the ferocity of the Parliamentarian forces, allegedly stating that the city could be taken by only a small number of his men. In fact, it took him one whole week of ﬁghting and thousands of deaths before he gained control of the castle. However, the prince’s control didn’t last long, with Parliamentarian John Moore taking the castle back (yes that’s right, the university’s namesake). Local legend claims that secret tunnels from the river to the castle were key to the success of the Parliamentarians in Liverpool. After the defeat of the Royalists, it was ordered for the castle to be demolished. As only sections of the exterior walls and the gatehouse were taken down, the castle quickly fell into a dilapidated state with squatters living

in the four towers. When the castle was ﬁnally torn down, the Church of St. George was constructed but by 1902, this too had been demolished and the monument of Queen Victoria was erected, which now has a plaque commemorating the old castle. During WWII, the area was heavily targeted once again, leaving Queen Victoria looking out onto a city and country once again in turmoil. Now, the Crown Court stands in the castle’s place, reminding us of our country’s laws and traditions. As our city’s skyline expands, develops and becomes increasingly impressive, it is important to remember the missing historical gem and everything that our castle symbolised. PRIVATE LIFE 11

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L iverpool RICHARD MOORE

Lauren Walker sits down with Richard Moore, owner of Fishlocks, to find out more about Liverpool’s celebrity florist ishlocks has been a fixture on Liverpool’s Castle Street for more than 20 years, which means that owner Richard Moore and his team of award-winning floral designers have been keeping Liverpool beautiful for over two decades. He has seen the cityscape change throughout the years but his business ethos and dedication have remained the same. ‘I have always wanted to just make beautiful things that help make the customers’ world more beautiful in some way,’ says Richard. What started out as a two-week work experience stint at a fruit stall on Edge Lane turned into eight years and a switch to the flower stall, where all the pretty girls were stationed. Richard then followed a natural progression and combined his aim of being a business owner with his love of flowers by

purchasing Fishlocks in 1991. His talent and charisma have made him Liverpool’s very own celebrity florist and go-to brand for exciting flower arrangements and striking visual design. He names the Hard Days Night Hotel, the Empire Theatre and Panoramic 34 as clients, as well as many LFC players and Liverpool’s Lord Mayor. He has been called upon in the past to create breathtaking arrangements for Lady Diana, Condoleezza Rice and Lionel Richie to name just a few. But when asked who his all-time favourite client is, Richard smiles brightly, ‘Why, the Queen, of course! But Elton John is a close second.’ It doesn’t end with only a bouquet; Richard’s team also does full event visuals planning. He truly enjoys the creation of themes, decorating and heightening a

customer’s experience. Fishlocks can design a whole event for you and are available for Christmas decorating needs. Fishlocks and Richard Moore are truly part of the Liverpool culture, as his flowers can literally be found scattered around the city. From the various establishments frequented by visitors and locals alike, to the homes of his loyal customers, Fishlocks continues to leave an impression. Beautiful flowers may not stay vibrant forever but the memories will always remain. Fishlocks is renowned for putting its loving stamp on every single flower bud that will soon be transferred into the hands of someone very special. The beauty is in the details and Richard knows exactly where to put those details to keep his Liverpool beautiful.

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PRIVATE FASHION

‘God’ - An artwork by David Paul Mesler

This issue, we turn to the modern art movement for inspiration for the pattern-rich looks that are gracing every designer’s collection

1. Slim-ﬁ t printed cotton-twill blazer, £920, Jil Sander (www.mrporter.com) 2. Bat-print silk and cashmere-blend scarf, £280, Horiyoshi the Third (www.mrporter.com) 3. Blue Beetle Wing print shirt, £315, Alexander McQueen (www.my-wardrobe.com) 4. Sloane leopard-print suede slippers, £395, Jimmy Choo (www.mrporter.com) 5. Designer-embossed silicone iPhone 4 case, £30, Marc by Marc Jacobs (www.marcjacobs.com) 6. Printed ﬁ ne-knit wool cardigan, £720, Alexander McQueen (www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk) 7. Houndstooth silk pocket square, £55, Marwood (www.mrporter.com)

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Using Liverpool’s iconic Town Hall as our backdrop, Private Life brings you the latest prints from a variety of SS13’s vibrant collections

Photographer: Kirstie McNulty Hair: Nathan Bruce and Jon Webster, Sassoon, Metquarter Make up: Illamasqua, Metquarter Stylist: Lauren Walker Fashion Assistant: Ashleigh Cunningham Models: Daniel O’Connor and Amy Lowrie, Impact Models Location: Liverpool Town Hall Special thank you to Steve Gibbs at the Town Hall and Nick Collier at Gieves & Hawkes

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Opposite page: McQ dress, Alexander McQueen, £670, available at Flannels (www.ﬂannelsfashion.com). Gold shoes, Kat Maconie, £145, available at Boudoir Boutique. Blue merino wool suit, £795, shirt, £125, tie, £85, pocket square, £45 and shoes, £350 – all available at Gieves & Hawkes, Metquarter (www.gievesandhawkes.com). Above: Floral tweed top, MSGM, £250, available at Flannels. Silk trousers, Gucci, £860, available at Flannels. Gold shoes, Kat Maconie, £195, available at Boudoir Boutique. Fuchsia bangle, Ti Sento, £70, available at Wongs Jewellers. Fuchsia ring, Ti Sento, £70, available at Wongs Jewellers (www.wongsjewellers.com).

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Above: Pale blue linen jacket, £495, shirt, £125, tie, £85, pocket square, £45 – all available at Gieves & Hawkes, Metquarter (www.gievesandhawkes.com). Opposite page: Gold printed dress, Just Cavalli, £250, available at Flannels (www.ﬂannelsfashion.com). Vintage shawl, £79, available at Boudoir Boutique. Gold Shoes, Kat Maconie, £185, available at Boudoir Boutique.

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Opposite page: Palm print dress, Michael Kors, £200, available at www.my-wardrobe.com. RAOUL C cardigan, £216, available at www.my-wardrobe.com. Gold shoes, Kat Maconie, £145, available at Boudoir Boutique. Above: Blue merino wool suit, £795, shirt, £125, tie, £85, pocket square, £45 and shoes, £350 – all available at Gieves & Hawkes, Metquarter (www.gievesandhawkes.com).

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With so many designers being inﬂ uenced by artists old and new, this issue we look to the modern art movement for inspiration

3 1. Natalie printed silk blend mini dress, £963, www.net-a-porter.com 2. Leopard print Iphone 4 case, Diane Von Furstenberg, £35, www.my-wardrobe.com 3. Wild cat leopard plastic sunglasses, Sheriﬀ & Cherry, £75, www.my-wardrobe.com 4. Hamper leather and velvet platform pumps, Brian Atwood, £1,238, www.net-a-porter.com 5. The De Manta printed silk-satin clutch, Alexander McQueen, £315, www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk 6. Yellow butterﬂ y camo scarf, Alexander McQueen, £175, www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk 7. White animal leaf canvas Ipad case, Diane Von Furstenberg, £108, www.my-wardrobe.com

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*OUSPEVDJOH UIF XJOOFS PG

2013 We are delighted to introduce to you the ﬁrst ever winner of the Urban Calm Bump of the Year competition, Joanne Hackett.

oanne, an Irish beauty and geography teacher from Liverpool, welcomed her first child in October 2012 and has been enjoying parenthood ever since with her new bundle of joy. Joanne, and her inaugural bump of the year, will be the face of Urban Calm’s maternity treatment offering for 2013. Urban Calm’s Bump of the Year contest is a celebration of maternity and the beauty of women, supported by leading brands such as the Liverpool Dental Spa, David Lloyd Leisure in Speke, Wilson K Photography and The Pudding Club boutique in Knutsford, all of which donated fantastic prizes. Talented infant photographer Kelly Wilson treated this yummy mummy and her special delivery, Aoife Lily, to a glamorous photo session to celebrate her win. We would love to thank everyone who has supported the search and celebrated the joy of pregnancy with us. The first ever contest of its kind was filled with love and success and we look forward to another Bump search for 2014. Congrats Joanne and welcome baby Aoife!

To nominate a Bump for 2014 please send a photograph and paragraph explaining why you feel the nominee should be Urban Calm’s next Bump of the Year to bump2014@urbancalmuk.com. We would love to hear from all the stylish mums-to-be out there! The contest will close in autumn 2013. 22 PRIVATE LIFE

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Private Society Women In Business Awards

Friday 8 March saw Downtown Liverpool In Business host the inauguaral Women In Business Awards in association with the Women’s Organisation and sponsored by Liverpool Dental Spa. The awards are a first for Liverpool and honour the achievements of women who have created successful ventures. Maggie O’Connell, chief executive officer of the Women’s Organisation, said, ‘The region has such a wealth of female talent and we believe that we should celebrate and recognise the contribution of real women in business and the entrepreneurs and high-flying women doing exceptional business in Merseyside.’

If Music Be the Food of Love

David M Robinson Jewellers and special guests were swept off their feet by Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in a night of music with a romantic theme to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The concert (16 February) included Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev’s musical take on the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, and was conducted by Venezuelan-born Spanish conductor José Luis Gomez. David M Robinson hosted a number of their clients, including many who have had rings designed by the company. In fact the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s flute and piccolo player, Fiona Paterson, who is engaged to trumpet player Neil Fulton, had her own engagement ring designed by David M Robinson. On attending the concert, John Robinson, MD, David M Robinson said: ‘David M Robinson is a proud sponsor of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. We would like to thank the musicians for the wonderful way in which our clients were entertained on the night.’ PRIVATE LIFE 23

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Liverpool Dental Spa holds a glittering Charity Ball

Owners of the Liverpool Dental Spa, Debbie and Marius McGovern organised a glitzy charity event to raise funds for their team to carry out an expedition with the ‘Dental Mavericks’ to the Rif Mountains in North Africa to treat over 500 children with chronic dental problems. WAGS were out in force to show their support, including Alex Gerrard, Nicola Carragher, Shauna Muamba, Chantelle Tagoe and Jude Cisse whilst Dani Lawrence was joined by her partner, Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Jones. Liverpool’s favourite girl band, Atomic Kitten, wowed the crowd by performing their ﬁrst homecoming show after 13 years out of the city. Kerry Katona said, ‘It was absolutely fantastic playing in front of a home crowd again as a ‘Kitten’ and doing it for such a worthwhile cause made it all the more special.’ Marius McGovern, clinical director of the Liverpool Dental Spa, said, ‘The event raised over £20,000 to enable us to help many children who are suﬀering needlessly. We are grateful to everyone who has supported us and our many friends and colleagues who came to our ball.’

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dentists in morocco! The Liverpool Dental Spa travels to African shores to provide dental care for hundreds of Moroccan children arius and Debbie McGovern, owners of one of Merseyside’s leading dental practices, the Liverpool Dental Spa, have embarked on a mission to put their skills to good use in 2013. The duo have inspired their team to carry out an expedition with the ‘Dental Mavericks’ to the Rif Mountains in North Africa to treat more than 500 children with chronic dental problems – their biggest feat to date. The Dental Mavericks are a group of outgoing, energetic and adventurous entrepreneurs connected to dentistry whose aim in life is to give back. They are now in their fourth year of treating abscesses, gum disease and decaying teeth and with their two newest recruits, they plan on treating more children this year than ever before. Life on the African continent is renowned for its challenges and hardships, with many families living in isolated villages with no dentists, a high sugar diet, no toothbrushes and no toothpaste. With a number of dental procedures in villages currently being carried out by friends and family with unsterilised equipment such as bicycle chains, scissors and clamps, it doesn’t take a dental professional to imagine the consequences.

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The dental neglect shocked both Debbie and Marius, who felt impelled to team up with the Dental Mavericks to help relieve the pain and distress in Morocco. Debbie adds, ‘Parents of these children in Morocco are no diﬀ erent to any others around the world; they want to help their children and we plan to do just that.’

To help the Liverpool Dental Spa reach their £70,000 target, please visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ team/LiverpoolDentalSpa to make a donation. Both Debbie and Marius McGovern are grateful to everybody who is helping them on this expedition and would like to thank the readers of Private Life for their future support.

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PRIVATE LIFE

See For Yourself was recently speaking to a patient who had never tried contact lenses before. Like many people, her knowledge of contact lenses was very limited, other than the fact that some of her friends wore them. After a little encouragement, she decided to have a contact lens trial. She now wears them nearly every day, whether for going to the gym or out with her friends. Many patients are wary of trying contact lenses, but I often ﬁnd that once they do they never look back. Some people still think of contact lenses as hard, uncomfortable things, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. New lens materials such as Hypergel are excellent at providing high levels of comfort and vision for the wearer. Personally, I wear Biotrue daily disposable lenses. They were developed by Bausch & Lomb speciﬁcally for moisture retention, which is

Are you bored of wearing glasses? Do you want to push back the years and avoid wearing reading spectacles? David McDaid, Silverberg Opticians resident optometrist, explains everything you need to know about contact lenses particularly useful in my case as I suffer from very dry eyes. The added comfort these lenses provide makes them all the more valuable. Over the past 10 years there have been momentous strides in the development of contact lenses in one particular area – multifocal lenses. Daily and monthly multifocal lenses have eradicated the need for both distance and reading spectacles. In a world where people try to defy time and hide their age, a pair of readers can give them away. That’s where these lenses really come into their own. No more fumbling around in the bottom of your handbag, trying to find your spectacles so you can read the menu in a dimly lit restaurant! It’s also possible to fit multifocal lenses even if you don’t need any help with your distance vision, so if you have gone your whole life without spectacles, you can continue to do so. One of my favourite contact lens success stories is about an eight-year-old boy who was a patient of Ian Silverberg’s. He enjoyed playing football but always struggled as he couldn’t see well without his spectacles.

His parents thought he was too young for lenses but Ian ﬁtted him with some daily disposable lenses which he could wear for sport. The following season he won the award for most improved player! Contact lenses have come so far over the past 50 years and you really will never know for sure if you are a contact lens person until you give them a try. If you would like to book an appointment for a sight test and contact lens consultation, please call the store on 0151 709 2012, or if you would like to know some more about the different options available, please pop in store to discuss them with myself or Ian Silverberg. PRIVATE LIFE 27

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DENTAL IMPLANTS

TEETH IN A DAY Having missing teeth can be embarrassing, but Peter Roberts explains how a quick and easy procedure makes it possible to have them replaced in a day

any people are now aware that dental implants can replace missing teeth in a highly successful, attractive and long lasting way. What many people may not be aware of is that with the latest advances in dental implant technology, it is now possible to replace your missing teeth, including full dentures, with the All-on-4 treatment in a single day. The All-on-4 system is similar to many other dental implant treatments currently in use, but reduces the amount of surgery needed. Four specially designed implants are carefully positioned in your lower jaw and a custom bridge is immediately placed. In your upper jaw, a similar process is followed, but sometimes there are fi ve or six implants, depending on the individual case. At Liverpool Dental Spa our highly experienced team of dental surgeons are delighted to off er you a comprehensive consultation to discuss your dental issues and develop a customised treatment plan just for you. We love what we do and live to make you smile with confi dence. Dental implants are our bread and butter, and we are so excited about this rapidly evolving fi eld of advanced dentistry. We see dental implants as a way to change people’s lives for the better. Imagine a world where you can chew whatever food

you want – an apple, a juicy steak... With dental implants the roots of your missing teeth are replaced with a highly specialised titanium cylinder which actually integrates with your bone and becomes a part of you. The pressure of biting on food is transferred through the implant into your jaw, just like with your own teeth. Wouldn’t it be fantastic to never have to worry about a denture moving or slipping ever again? Having the conﬁ dence to choose anything you like oﬀ the menu and being able to laugh, sing and speak in public without that subconscious fear that your denture will let you down at the worst possible moment. So, what if you only have a couple of missing teeth? Perhaps you have learned to live with it? Do you favour

chewing on the other side? Well, the potential problems with this are numerous. Your opposing teeth can move down into the space, you could lose bone in the region where your teeth are missing and you could reduce the amount of teeth that you can eﬀ ectively chew with. You don’t have to put up with it any longer. Dental implants can replace your teeth in a safe, eﬀ ective, attractive and long lasting way.

To schedule a consultation in which you can discuss your options with Dr Marius McGovern or Dr Dominic O’Hooley, telephone 0151 236 8280. PRIVATE LIFE 29

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All Dermalogica Age Smart products available from Urban Calm Spa, Met Quarter, 0151 236 0537. All jewellery from the Ti Sento range, available at Wongs Jewellers, Whitechapel, 0151 236 1552 (www.wongsjewellers.co.uk)

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STAY BEAUTIFUL The experts at city centre spa Urban Calm share their top skin care tips to help keep you looking fabulous all day, everyday

BRIGHT EYES

The most common celebrity complaint that all make-up artists are asked to ﬁx is puﬀy eyes.

AT HOME Leading A-list facialist, Alexandra Soveral, recommends her personal draining technique to perform morning and evening, after applying eye cream such as Age Reversal Eye Complex, 15ml, £57.40, which helps Skin that is flawless is a non-negotiable requirement to reverse photoaging and chronological aging of for A-listers. With so few born with it, can an imperfect skin tissues due to its licorice and rice bran extract. complexion be fixed? Urban Calm says yes… Bags under the eyes and dark circles often arise due to poor REFINED PORES circulation and drainage. Using Pore size increases as the skin ages, a product that contains caffeine primarily through sun-exposure usually helps to strengthen blood resulting in a loss of collagen. The secret to looking fabulous is less capillaries and stimulates the blood AT HOME about nature and more about nurture. microcirculation. Georgia Louise, New York facialist ‘I see many celebrities and they are to the stars, advises using a damp ALEXANDRA’S muslin cloth to remove cleanser TECHNIQUE: not unlike the rest of us, with issues to ensure the surface of the skin 1. Place thumbs behind the from acne to eczema, dryness to sun remains refined. earlobes. 2. Start at the outer corner of your damage,’ says Claire Wood, Urban eyes, and massage your ring fingers TREAT Calm’s skin specialist. in tiny inward circles, following the Always look for products bone around the eye socket. with glycolic or lactic acid to ‘As a skin expert, it is my job to fix 3. Once at the bridge of the nose, shrink pores. Products such as their skin with the best treatments and push up beneath the eyebrows and Dermalogica’s Skin Resurfacing Cleanser, £34.50 for 150ml, does preparations. However, everyone can continue, working to complete the circuit at the outer corners. not contain retinol but is one of the aim for great skin and it’s never too 4. Repeat 10 times most effective exfoliating cleansers for accelerating cell turnover. late to improve it.’

SKINCARE

NEED TO KNOW

IN THE SALON Leading dermatologists all agree that regular facials are the most eﬀective way to tighten pores and skin. However, for those wishing to go more slowly, try a ﬂash treatment such as a Mircrozone facial (30 minutes, £25, Urban Calm) followed by a series of four to six fortnightly treatments.

TREAT

Always look for products with optical light diffusers to help minimize dark circles. Ingredients such as lactic acid and sodium PCA are moisture-binding complexes that act as a humectant to allow for more water absorption from the atmosphere. Products such as Dermalogica’s Total Eye Care, 15ml, £37.90, contain minerals that help reflect the light and create an iridescence, alongside Spiraea, Hydrocotyl and Bisabolol extracts which help firm and reduce puffiness and fine lines.

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EXFOLIATION

HYDRATION

AT HOME

Chemical and physical exfoliants combine to deliver effective exfoliation to resurface, smooth and brighten skin tone while evening the texture to improve allover skin clarity.

One of the best prescriptions for dehydrated skin and depleted skin is green juice (especially cucumber, celery and kale). It is amazing how much it perks you up from the inside out. As an alternative, try taking liquid chlorophyll or a supplement such as Oxytarm to cleanse your colon. High concentrations of ﬁsh oils and essential fatty acids are good to ingest, as most dehydrated skins have a compromised barrier function and lack omega oils. Without these lipids, your skin cannot hold onto moisture, no matter how much water you drink.

Congestion appears on the face when pores become clogged with oils and dead skin cells remain on the surface of the skin for too long.

TREAT Always look for products with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) when using an exfoliant, as these hold up to 1,000 times their weight in water to help rehydrate the skin. Dermalogica’s Daily Resurfacer, 35 pouches for £68.90, has a rich source of vitamins and minerals containing antioxidants. The pouches give a precise dose of leave-on exfoliating treatment ideal for use between professional treatments. Hydroxy acids and enzymes smooth skin without causing redness and help to reduce the signs of premature ageing. A brightening complex helps to even skin tone while soothing teas help skin retain moisture.

DAILY SOLUTION Leading dermatologists all agree that a good exfoliation is key to a brighter complexion. The perfect daytime companion to a daily resurfacer is Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant, 75g, £40.30, which is gentle whilst removing surface debris to reveal brighter, smoother skin that helps to stimulate cell renewal for improved suppleness. Always opt for products that use key ingredients such as papain and salicylic acid, which help to dissolve excess surface cells and facilitate penetration of the brightening complex.

Jet-lag, poor diet, drinking, late nights and central heating can all cause dehydration and dullness.

TREAT Always look for products with glycolipids and hyaluronic acid. Products such as Dermalogica’s Skin Hydrating Booster, £51 for 30ml, contains a high percentage of aqua and sodium hyaluronate – two essential ingredients for rebalancing the moisture in your skin and improving its elasticity. Dermalogica’s Skin Hydrating Masque (75ml, £31.90) is also eﬀective at delivering continuous moisture throughout the day. Containing salicornia extract, this complex reinforces the skin’s lipid barrier and aids in the keratinization of cells to produce more moisture.

TIP FOR ANTI-AGEING Eating well simply makes you look better. The best way is to eat no processed foods. This doesn’t mean raw, but it does mean consuming nothing that comes out of a box – especially flour, sugar or pasta. Sugar equals inflammation and inflammation equals ageing. Try to opt for foods such as wild fish that contains high levels of Omega-3, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale and cabbage, and berries that are high in antioxidants such as blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and acai berries.

For more information on all the treatments available at Urban Calm call 0151 236 0537 or visit www.urbancalmuk.com 32 PRIVATE LIFE

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Lunch Break Love Geraldine StanifordHoilan; community liaison ofﬁ

cer

John

Lewis Geraldine’s working day involves engaging with charities to highlight the contribution John Lewis makes to the local community. ‘Liverpool is such a vibrant and stylish city and I’m fortunate to have the best job ever,’ she says. ‘Although I’m very busy, I rank a trip to Urban Calm as very important.’ Describe a typical day. ‘I don’t have a typical day; I could be working with family refuges or meeting with the managing director of John Lewis.’ Treatment of choice? ‘A 30-minute facial followed by a 30-minute hot shell massage. It’s the perfect mix – the facial energises my complexion and the massage relaxes sore muscles.’

Weekender Stephanie Cannell Corcoran;

general

manager

Hotel

Indigo

and

Marco

Pierre

White

Steakhouse

As GM of boutique Hotel Indigo and the famed MPW Steakhouse, Stephanie’s role includes the overall running of the enterprise. Her week involves meetings that take her everywhere and anywhere, but with all the hustle and bustle of the industry, Stephanie makes time for spa treatments, describing them as ‘pure indulgence and relaxation. Urban Calm is convenient and welcoming, and it helps me to remain vibrant in my job. It’s very important to give yourself a bit of relaxation after a busy week – it gets you ready for the next.’ What’s a typical day like? ‘No two days are the same, but all involve leading our fantastic team, overseeing a successful day of operation and meeting with contacts to enhance business potential for Hotel Indigo and MPW Steakhouse.’

What do you love about Liverpool?

‘I love the atmosphere – from the fast-paced commercial district to the laid-back coﬀ ee shop culture on Bold Street and everything in between.’ Treatment of choice? ‘Full body massage.’

Lauren Walker talks to four Liverpool professionals who use Urban Calm’s convenient city location to relax and unwind after a busy week

Mid-Week Pick-Me-Up

End-OfProject Reward

Amy Louise Keating; buyer

Boudoir

Boutique

Ben Gildea; solicitor

Brabners

Chaffe

Street

Amy sources merchandise for the fashion and lifestyle emporium in Cavern Walks. Having just returned from buying appointments in London, this time of year is very hectic. ‘Staying healthy is important and a mid-week facial is a great way to de-stress and keep skin clear.’ Describe a typical day. ‘The beauty of working in a boutique in the city centre is you never know who is going to walk through the door, so it’s always important to look your best. I remember Blondie walking into the store one afternoon – she was doing a concert at the Philharmonic.’ Treatment of choice? ‘A Dermalogica custom facial with face mapping.’

Solicitors know all too well that cases can go around the clock. For Ben Gildea, a massage at the end of a long project is relaxing and mind-clearing, and helps prepare him for the next legal matter. Ben says, ‘With a busy professional life in Liverpool, ﬁ tting in time to relax can be diﬃ cult, but visiting Urban Calm is a great reward.’ What’s a typical day like? ‘I act for various clients, from landlords with large property portfolios, to national retail clients, banks and other businesses.’ Treatment of choice? ‘A massage.’

Urban Calm is located in Liverpool’s Met Quarter. Find out more at www.urbancalmuk.com PRIVATE LIFE 33

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Love Your Lashes

Private Life sits down with Urban Calm’s resident eyelash extension specialist, Denise Dickinson, to ﬁnd out her top tips when getting eyelash extensions DO YOUR RESEARCH Choose a reputable salon. The lash artist should be fully qualiﬁed and a consultation should always be free of charge. Ask what type adhesive is used (it should be non-formaldehyde), and if they have a variety of lashes for customising. Always make sure they are not applying cluster lashes as lash extensions are one single lash applied to each one of your own.

DON’T GET THEM WET

DO RESHAPE AFTER SHOWERING Always reshape your extensions after you shower. Gently comb your lashes to fan them out or use a blow dryer set on cool to fan them back in place.

Make sure you don’t get your extensions wet for 24 to 48 hours after application. Avoid working out, steam rooms or hot yoga. The adhesive will reactivate and may cause the lashes to stick together.

DON’T FORGET!

DO BE GENTLE

Flaunt! Flirt! The best thing about lash extensions is that they are versatile and can be styled diﬀerently at every touch-up appointment.

Resist the urge to pull. If you excessively touch or brush your extensions, it could damage your natural lashes.

DON’T MOISTURISE THEM Be careful not to let moisture-rich products get onto your lashes. Shampoo, conditioner, heavy creams or anything oil based will eventually loosen the bond. Tilt your head back when washing your hair to avoid getting them wet.

Avoid neglecting your own lashes. Maintain the health of your lashes with an eyelash conditioner or serum.

DO HAVE FUN

For more details or to book a free consultation, please contact Denise or one of the team at Urban Calm on 0151 236 0537.

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empire theatre preview We snuggle up on the sofa and delve between the sheets with Liverpool’s very own authority on interior design, Elaine Cunningham,

Two exciting shows are coming to the Liverpool Empire Theatre this spring: the fabulous Hairspray and the timelessly beautiful Sleeping Beauty

Hairspray The West End’s favourite musical comedy, Hairspray, is coming to the Liverpool Empire Theatre this April – and is bringing with it Liverpool’s own star, Marcus Collins. Hairspray tells the fantastical story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart as she sets out to follow her dreams, inspire her mum and win the love of her life. It’s the ultimate feel-good show which has played to sold out houses in London, on Broadway and in theatres around the world. The X Factor’s Marcus Collins, one of many scousers who have done our city proud on the TV show over the years, joins stars Mark Benton and Lucy Benjamin for Hairspray’s tour of the UK and Ireland, which opened at Manchester’s Lowry Theatre in February. Marcus plays Seaweed Stubbs, one of the coolest kids at Patterson Park High, son of DJ Motormouth Maybelle and love interest of Penny Pingleton. He joins Mark Benton as larger than life Edna Turnblad, Lucy Benjamin as scheming TV executive Velma Von Tussle and newcomer Freya Sutton as teen heroine and main character, Tracy Turnblad.

Liverpool born and bred, Collins rose to fame and won the hearts of the nation on ITV1’s 2011 season of The X Factor. Mentored by music legend Gary Barlow and hugely popular throughout the series, Collins eventually ﬁ nished as runnerup in front of a sold out audience at Wembley Arena and more than 14 million viewers watching at home. Since then he has toured the UK as part of The X Factor Live tour and has released the Top 10 album, Marcus Collins. His leading role in Hairspray marks his musical theatre debut. Collins says, ‘I can’t express how thrilled I am to be joining the tour of Hairspray. It’s been a pretty amazing year for me and now to be cast in my dream role feels like a new part of the

adventure! Having trained in musical theatre since my early teens, I’m just itching to get into rehearsals now and so excited to be working with Mark, Lucy and the rest of the company. Roll on February!’ Hairspray opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London on October 2007, recouping its entire capitalisation in record-breaking time. The show received universal critical acclaim and smash hit business, eventually playing more than 1000 performances to well over one million people. At the 2008 Olivier Awards, Hairspray won Best Musical, as well as a further three awards from a record-breaking 11 nominations. Further aﬁ eld the show has played at venues around the world, including six years on Broadway.

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Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty Matthew Bourne’s spectacular re-imagining of the ballet classic, Sleeping Beauty, is playing at the Liverpool Empire Theatre from 30th April to 4th May 2013. The show sees the renowned choreographer return to the music of Tchaikovsky to complete the trio of the composer’s ballet masterworks which started in 1992 with Nutcracker! and continued, most famously, in 1995 with the international hit Swan Lake. Perrault’s timeless fairy tale, about a young girl cursed to sleep for 100 years, was turned into a legendary ballet by Tchaikovsky and

choreographer, Marius Petipa, in 1890. We meet our heroine, Aurora, at her Christening, when fairies and vampires fed the gothic imagination. As Aurora grows into a young woman, we move forwards in time to the more rigid, uptight Edwardian era; a mythical golden age of long summer afternoons, croquet on the lawn and new dance crazes. Years later, awakening from her century-long slumber, Aurora ﬁ nds herself in the modern day; a world more mysterious and wonderful than any fairy story! Bourne’s haunting new scenario is a gothic tale for all ages; the traditional tale of good vs. evil and rebirth is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story, across the decades, that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder. For more information and to book tickets, please visit www.atgtickets.com

Hairspray

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GLAM! The Performance of Style

Harley Grosvenor visits Tate Liverpool’s latest exhibition and finds a dazzling array of fashion, art and music from the extravagant glam era n the first exhibition of its kind, Tate Liverpool gives us an insight into the early 1970s and all things glam. ‘Glam! The Performance of Style’ gets under the surface of a time when the art world collided with popular culture and created a whole new scene filled with glitter, feathers, fur and David Bowie. This exhibition moves past the nostalgia and starry eyes as people reminisce to show us what really lay beneath the surface of the glam era. The exhibition begins with a look at the high voltage collision of art, music and fashion in Britain. With two walls dedicated to magazine covers, album sleeves and

stage costumes, the displays completely transport us back to the early 1970s. But it is Nancy Hellebrand’s series of black and white photographs that really strike a cord. Capturing teenage Bowie fans in all their glam regalia whilst sitting in their paradoxically unglamourous bedrooms, the glam phenomenon seemed to oﬀer a form of escapism and an alternate reality hidden behind glitz and ostentation. Glam was at the height of its popularity in 1973, but this was also the year Britain oﬃcially entered a recession. With hoards of screaming girls descending to see One Direction this March, Hellebrand’s images appear more relevant than others to our lives in the modern day. The question is: did glam rock actually trap people in their surroundings rather than empower them? David Hockney’s ‘Mr and Mrs Clark and Percy’ takes pride of place in the exhibition, and in the depiction of Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell (and not forgetting Percy the cat), we can practically feel Ossie’s toes on the sheepskin carpet. This was a step away from the genre of Pop Art for Hockney and a step into portraiture. A classic painting of two of the day’s biggest fashion stars symbolised for many a shift in popular culture. Glam! also takes us across the pond to examine glam culture in New York. Featuring artists such as Peter Hujar, Jack Smith and, of course, Andy Warhol, we

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Glam:

1. The attractive or exciting quality that makes certain people or things seem appealing or special. 2. Beauty or charm that is sexually attractive. take a look at a world that was far more established than that of Britain’s suburban Bowie fans, locked in their bedrooms. Filled with photography, installations, paintings, music and films, the exhibition well and truly explores and visualises the shifting face of glam and the early 1970s. Glam! The Performance of Style takes us on a step-bystep guide to glam. In a time filled with economic unrest, glam offered an escape as well as reaction; parents could hardly comprehend their children’s newly found sexuality and outrageous fashions, the likes of which had never been seen before. But for such a short-lived and transient time period, is it really possible to put a definition and historical context on it? In a contemporary world full of E.L. James, it could seem quaint in parts, however the Tate shows us that, while short-lived, the glam era gave a lot to popular culture. Bowie, Clark, Hockney, Warhol and many others are still relevant today. Glam broke boundaries and paved the way for the open selfexpression we enjoy today. PRIVATE LIFE 39

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A CUT ABOVE From humble beginnings in a small workshop in Liverpool, to national acclaim and award-winning recognition, David M Robinson is at the cutting edge of the UK diamond industry

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iverpool-born David M Robinson is one of the UK’s leading diamond jewellery designers, having twice won the coveted DeBeers Diamonds International Award. His story is one of talent, perseverance and craftsmanship, and began when he left school at the age of 15 to start an apprenticeship in Richmond Street, Liverpool. A few years later he opened his own small workshop in Hanover Street, from which he gradually built his business. More and more goldsmiths joined, and David began to make some of his own rings for retailers who were asking for his products. As the demand for his rings increased, David decided to open his ﬁrst store in North John Street, Liverpool. Since then, his business has gone from strength to strength and today David has earned a reputation for making some of the ﬁnest diamond engagement rings and wedding rings in the country. A design he created

for a diamond necklace gained him the first of his two prestigious DeBeers Diamonds International Awards. To receive his second award he flew to New York to visit the famous Plaza Hotel – a journey which, as David says, ‘was quite unusual for someone who had hardly been through the Mersey Tunnel!’ The business now has six showrooms, located in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Chester, Altrincham and Southport. Inside his flagship Liverpool One showroom you can even watch your rings being made by one of David’s master goldsmiths.

Do you offer a bespoke service?

At DMR you can have a ring designed and made to exactly your bespoke speciﬁcation, much in the same way brides choose to have a special dress created. In this day and age it is even more special to actually see your rings being created by a skilled goldsmith – and what a story to tell your grandchildren one day!

What do you pride yourself on?

Giving honest, helpful advice. The ring that draws the most compliments is usually not the ‘blingiest’ but the one which has real design integrity and, of course, one that sparkles. We have never really been involved in creating ‘bling’ as such; our workshops are more about couples being in love. It can take a long time to decide on the

right ring, so we never put customers under any pressure to buy, as it can put people oﬀ so quickly.

How long does your bespoke service take?

Typically it takes about three weeks from choosing a design and seeing a layout. It can take more or less time, though. If our goldsmiths are really busy, it can take longer, but we never rush it through. We never have and we never will.

What price range should I expect to pay?

Our goldsmiths are the best in the business and some of them have been working for and learning from David himself for more than 30 years! It really is a labour of love. Bespoke prices can start from £5,000 and go, well, as high as you’d like! To find out more about David M Robinson, please call 0151 708 1140 or visit www.davidmrobinson.co.uk PRIVATE LIFE 43

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The

Essence of

India Sarah Lancashire discovers that while it is possible to experience India in a week, the longer you stay, the more you will be rewarded by this culturally rich country Start in Delhi It’s always a good idea to start in the capital. A city created of time-sculptured and overlapping strata, Delhi is at least seven cities and almost as many civilizations collapsed, accreted and jumbled into one. Despite its shambolic beginnings and ambient tumult, Delhi is a pleasing city to visit, in part because it retains swathes of forest greenbelt – its broad avenues, traffi c roundabouts and other useful systems bequeathed by the imperial nannies of the British Raj. Compared to the hornhonking frenzy of industrial tech centers elsewhere in the country, Delhi remains notably civilized. It is, as is often noted, Washington, D.C., to Mumbai’s New York. A week in India should begin with two days in the capital. If your budget permits, book into one of the city’s top-tier hotels. There is a reason for this. The premium you pay at hotels like the Taj Mahal or the Oberoi for a central location and for ‘amenities’ like potable tap water, knowledgeable concierges, well-trained staff and, yes, consistent electrical service, is repaid a thousandfold by reduced time in traffi c and a placid digestive tract. I recommend hiring a driver to take you to Rashtrapati Bhavan, now the presidential residence, though originally built for the British Viceroy and thus a symbolic centrepiece of the British Raj. Heightened security has made it diffi cult to experience this complex of government buildings except at some distance, so ask the driver to park the car on a side road while you stroll the broad Rajpath,

which leads downhill from Raisina Hill to India Gate. Few remnants of the colonial presence in India survive as intact as does Rashtrapati Bhavan. From Raisina Hill and the presidential residence, have your taxi drive on to the National Museum, the collections of which provide a fi ne grounding for visitors in need of a playbook to India’s cultural and religious multiplicities. After this, enjoy a late lunch at one of several branches of a restaurant called Nathu’s Sweets, a Delhi institution noted for its Bengali home-cooking and unctuous desserts. On day two, set out early for South Delhi and for the austere and distinctly phallic minaret at Qutb Minar, or else spend time at the seldom-visited Sikh Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After your morning outings, make your way to Basil and Thyme for lunch. This inexpensive cafe is in a bungalow in Santushti Shopping Complex. Here, the chef, Bhicoo J. Manekshaw – now closing in on 90 and retired from the stove – continues to devise menus off ering fresh, unfussy fare best categorised under the rubric of what was once called ‘butler food’ in India. Over lunch of roast chicken with black mushroom stuffi ng, it is easy to forget that outside Santushti’s gated walls is a tumultuous city of 14 million people. Baba Kharak Singh Marg is among the last remaining streets in India where it is possible to fi nd an array of government-sponsored emporiums; places that, in a drowsy and state-subsidized way, promote the specialist crafts that are disappearing from the Indian scene. From Andhra Pradesh comes iron and silver fi ligree work

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called Bidriware; from Orissa, paintings on palm ﬁ ber; from Rajasthan, white-on-white patchwork appliqué; from Assam, the naturally golden silk called muga; from Kashmir, the lacquerware that is pretty inescapable in India. After lunch, head for Humayun’s Tomb. For decades this monument was a travesty – its fountains barren, its lawns motheaten, its ancient palisades in peril of imminent collapse. Though evocative in decay, Humayun’s Tomb is no less so today, restored with funds from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, and in all of Delhi there can be few places lovelier than Humayun’s Tomb at sunset, when the waning light of day outlines the tiled dome and eagles hang in the thermals above the nearby Yamuna River.

Onwards to the Taj Mahal From Delhi, hire a car and driver and head to Agra. While I personally would prefer not to spend a night in this shamefully polluted city, it is the only proper way to visit the Taj Mahal. This is because the Taj Mahal, when seen in the glaring sun of an Indian midday, as happens when you reach it after arriving from Delhi, can seem as ghostly blank as an overexposed photo. Seen at dawn, however, the structure’s marmoreal surface magically absorbs and refl ects the ambient colours of the sky and clouds. Afterwards, travel to Jaipur on a route that takes you fi rst to Fatehpur Sikri, one of the most evocative ruins in India. This abandoned city rises from farm fi elds in the middle of nowhere and features a complex of meeting

halls, women’s quarters, courtyard gardens and stables for elephants. Fatehpur Sikri was occupied for a mere 14 years before a shortage of water forced its abandonment in the 16th century. From there continue on to Jaipur, the fabled Pink City, which must be seen for at least three reasons: the City Palace; the hilltop Amber Fort; and Gem Palace. A tour of City Palace, the ancestral home of the Anglophile maharajas of Jaipur, provides a peek into the lives of the royals, who collected miniatures by the yard, silver by the ton and carpets seemingly by the mile. At Amber Fort, the ruling Kachhawa clan lived and ruled from a hilltop redoubt of red sandstone and white marble, in which you can see infl uences of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The fort is best reached on elephant back and is notable for its views of the barren Aravalli range. It makes sense to save Gem Palace for last because it is the sort of place that yields its secrets slowly. Chambers fi lled with cases of jewels and silver lead into each other, and serious shoppers will often fi nd a member of the Kasliwal family – which has run the place for generations – beckoning them into a back room for glimpses of treasures not kept on public view.

Dive into Rajasthan Jodhpur can be adequately enjoyed in two days and is an easy hop by plane from Jaipur. It’s also an easy place in which to ﬁ nd hotels at every price; but there is only one ideal place to lay one’s head in this desert outpost, and that

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Head to the Desert For more leisured travellers and bucket list types, I advise a longer journey, one that heads from Udaipur, by road, for the majestic destination of Jaisalmer, a desert city and a once sleepy place whose tourist potential has been exploited as ruthlessly as its conservation has been sadly allowed to decline. Conservation groups are actively working to preserve this fragile monument, where ancient merchants’ houses with lacelike screen walls of wood or stone crowd narrow lanes. Their main task is to keep the fortress walls from outright collapse. In doing so, however, they hope to preserve the ineff able stillness of this golden walled island surrounded by the sand sea that is the Thar Desert, historically known as the Land of Death. After Jaisalmer, move on to the rough-and-tumble desert city of Nagaur, home to a fi ne citadel complex known as Ahhichatragarh-Nagaur Fort. Nagaur is a challenge to take up only after getting your travel legs in India. The drive is rough and dusty, and when years ago a friend and I fi rst journeyed there, dust caked our clothes and our fi llings were nearly shaken loose from our teeth. We swore bitterly as we banged on the padlocked fort doors, like Dorothy in Oz, until the gates creaked open and a turbaned fi gure beckoned us inside. And there in a courtyard, we found a cluster of luxurious tents, their walls made from hand-block printed cottons, their camp beds covered in thick quilts, the private baths fi tted out with showers that rained hot water. If it is true that in India a traveller is tested by the tumult, the dirt, the pollution, the fi rst-world prices and sometimes second-rate service, it is also the case that as the advertising campaigns promise, India is in fact incredible. How else to explain the experience we had of emerging from our showers at Royal Camp, Nagaur Fort to fi nd that we were the only guests at the fort, the sole patrons being served cocktails in a Mughal courtyard under the black dome of desert sky? A delicious Rajasthani thali meal was presented on a table set up in an ancient pavilion. Perhaps too much bad Indian wine was consumed. In our individual tents the bedcovers had been turned down and the desert chill staved off by hot-water bottles discreetly tucked into the beds. When we awoke, we found that our plans to stay just one night had suddenly changed. And that is something I forgot to mention, how in India time is oddly elastic, everything fraught with challenge and wonders so inevitable that it makes sense to allow for enormous changes at the last minute (to swipe Grace Paley’s wonderful phrase). In India the plans you made at home are seldom the fi nal word on the matter. Do yourself a favour and keep that in mind. For more details on trips to India and other holiday destinations, please call Crown Travel on 0151 724 2265. PRIVATE LIFE 47

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is the Indo-Saracenic pile called Umaid Bhawan Palace. Last of the mega-palaces built during a century-long building spree by Indian maharajas, Umaid Bhawan is said to have been built as a charitable work-relief program for a region beset by a prolonged drought. Believe what you like, the place now belongs to its resident owner, the Oxford-educated Gaj Singh II, 64, the Maharaja of Jodhpur, who inherited the immense pile at age four. Umaid Bhawan is now operated in partnership with Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, and it must be said that a certain amount of its quiddity was lost in hotel-chain translation. Still, the palace retains its time-stopped aura and easily conjures an era when palace ladies led segregated, gossipy lives and the gallants of the legendary Jodhpur polo teams played fi erce chukkers and returned to drink stiff whiskies in a bar where, to this day, a stuff ed black bear stands upright with a drinks tray balanced in its paws. A visit to Jodhpur logically starts with a trip to the hilltop citadel of Mehrangarh Fort, where, up a series of ramps and past the studded elephant gates, there is a historical fortress museum almost without parallel in India. Gaj Singh II was an early adopter of Western-style curatorial practices, and the Mehrangarh collection includes silver elephant howdahs, Jodhpur school miniatures, armour and textiles. The fort itself, though massive, stupendous and ominous when seen from afar, is surprisingly intimate within.

Take a trip to Udaipur From Jodhpur, travel to Udaipur, again booking a driver and car for a road trip that Google Maps pegs at precisely fi ve hours and 20 minutes. At a guess, the staff at Google Maps have never actually seen an Indian road. I fi nd a useful rule of thumb is to always double the estimated road time when in India. Winding uphill through desert, the drive from Jodhpur eventually crests the Aravallis before descending into a verdant landscape of cultivated fi elds. Only by travelling overland are you able to visit the Jain Adinatha Temple at Ranakpur, a monument of marble whose hall contains either hundreds or thousands of intricately carved columns, depending who you ask. It is an austere place, one whose ecstatic carvings create an atmosphere of quiet spiritual intensity. The end point of this particular road trip is Udaipur, a spot whose chief points of interest are the fi nely conserved City Palace of Maharana Udai Singh II, the renowned Taj Lake Palace hotel and the ritzy Oberoi Udaivilas overlooking Lake Pichola. Udaipur is a great place to unwind. For those lucky enough to put up at Lake Palace, there is a ready excuse for enforced idleness, since the only way to reach the hotel or leave it is by boat.

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aloha maui Jim

As the Baltic breeze begins to disappear and the sun starts to shine over Liverpool, Clare Ainsworth takes a look at an eyewear brand that has long been synonymous with sunshine icture the scene: the sea gently laps at your feet as you soak up the sun on a golden beach with palm trees ever so slightly swaying in the ocean breeze. You’re in Hawaii, your troubles have melted away and the number one thing you need (after sun tan lotion, of course) is sunglasses. Our eyes are often forgotten in the fight against harmful UV rays, yet it is important that we protect them behind a pair of shades whilst in the sun. But there can be a catch. When you put on your sunglasses, do colours seem to become dull and uninspiring? Fear not; Maui Jim holds the answer. Founded in 1980, Maui Jim began as a small company selling sunglasses on Lahaina beach, Hawaii, where a need for protective eyewear that could eliminate glare without compromising on colour soon became obvious. Normal sunglasses were just not enough and something needed to change. And so, Maui Jim did what others claimed impossible. The company created the revolutionary PolarisedPlus lens and incorporated the lens into seven styles, thus creating the ‘Classic Collection’. With both eyes and the glorious Hawaiian colours protected, the sunglasses continued to be sold exclusively on Maui up until 1991 when they finally burst onto the global scene. Always looking forwards, Maui Jim built upon its pioneering technology and cult following to develop the Polarized Plus 2. This enabled the company to create lenses with colour-enhancing treatments formed from rare earth elements. The result of this? Sunglasses that give your eyes all the protection they need but also allow you to really see the colour of the world around you as nature intended. Taking the next step into the world of spectacles, Maui Jim built a state-of-the-art direct surfacing lab in 2006. This meant ensured precision prescription optics. The results of the lab were seen almost immediately with the Maui Readers and Maui Passport glasses, both offering wide views and outstanding acuity. Maui Jim creates glasses for an active life. Born from a beach lifestyle, they are an obvious choice for surfers, sunworshippers and general sports aficionados alike. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style.

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The women’s sunglasses oﬀer a wide variety of styles, from classic aviators to more fashion forward eyewear. The brand has also been listed in Forbes’ 100 Things Worth Every Penny article. And the latest celeb seen wearing Maui Jim? None other than Hugh Hefner himself. What sets this company apart from others, however, is not the fact that it has the fastest growing collection of polarised sunglasses in the world (having grown from just seven styles to 88); it is what Maui Jim represents. We all need to escape sometimes and the stunning beaches and laidback lifestyle of Hawaii oﬀer a perfect retreat. Maui Jim is a brand that is proud of its roots, that describes its company as its ‘ohana’ (Hawaiian for family) and wants to celebrate the beauty of our planet. So put on your Maui Jim sunnies, look out across the Mersey and, just for a second, you’ll swear you can hear palm trees swaying in the breeze. Aloha Maui Jim. To find out more about Maui Jim glasses, please call 0151 709 2012 or visit www.silverbergopticians.co.uk PRIVATE LIFE 49

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PERFECTING PROSECCO produced per year. Up until the 1960s, Prosecco sparkling wine was generally rather sweet but since then, production Alice Anastasiou discovers how techniques have improved, leading to the high-quality dry wines produced today. An astounding Prosecco Spumante cultural infl uences created one of DOC Brut by the Zonin Family – ‘Vintners since 1821’ – is Italy’s most prolifi c wine-making the archetypal quality of this sparkling wine. Pleasantly fruity on the nose, with good aromatic intensity of fl owers, melons regions, and one of the country’s and apples, and a hint of sweet almonds, this wine is typical of Glera grapes and always a delightful aperitif to tickle most popular exports, Prosecco those taste buds. Produced from the region’s indigenous grape variety, Glera, Prosecco is made by undergoing secondary a noticeable Slavic and Germanic taly’s wine is as varied in fermentation, where a mixture of wine, sugar, yeast and infl uence. Friuli was also once a quality and style as its crucial stop along the Mediterranean other clarifying agents are added in order to develop the terroir and people. No spice route, so throughout the Middle bubbles in the wine. The majority of sparkling wines other country has such diversity are produced using the Charmat process, in which the Ages, travellers passing through the and versatility of grape variety and secondary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, region introduced grapevines from wine cultivating methods as Italy. making the wine less expensive to produce. In champagne Macedonia and Anatolia. Prior to The Northeastern region of Italy – production, secondary fermentation takes place in individual incorporating Veneto, Friuli-Venezia the phylloxera epidemic in the midbottles, making the whole process more expensive. It’s worth 19th century, more than 350 grape Giulia, Trentino, Alto Adige – has mentioning that Prosecco has no ageability and should be varieties were grown in the region. without doubt become Italy’s answer consumed within three years of production – which is as to Bordeaux. A prolifi c wine-making But it wasn’t until Prosecco became good an excuse as any to open another bottle! internationally popular in the 1930s, region, it subscribes less to tradition followed by Pinot Grigio in the 1980s, and more to modern ideas than the For more information please visit www.private-life.co.uk that Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s wine rest of the country. This is a result of industry rose to worldwide success. upheavals within the region’s ethnic, Prosecco’s remarkable global cultural and political heritage, as well renaissance in popularity is owed as developments throughout the to the Bellini cocktail which was whole of Italy. created at Harry’s Bar in Venice Friuli-Venezia Giulia was once in the 1930s by the bar’s founder, part of the Republic of Venice. Giuseppe Cipriani. Approximately However, some areas in the region 28 million bottles of Prosecco in were under the rule of the Austrospumante (fully sparkling) and Hungarian Empire up until WWI, frizzante (lightly sparkling) styles are so it’s inevitable that its wines have

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il forno Liverpool’s award winning Italian

As one of the most established Italian brands in Liverpool, it’s no wonder that Il Forno goes from strength to strength. Arabella Whittaker joins head chef Paolo Cillo in the kitchen to ﬁnd out the secrets behind the restaurant’s critically acclaimed awards s its Italian presence has stood proud on Duke Street for the past seven years, whilst the menu and staﬀ may have changed, one key part of Il Forno’s recipe for success has remained the same, and that is its formidable chef, Paolo Cillo. Believing that the most important things in Italy are food and family, Paolo has managed to incorporate both into his life here in Liverpool, bringing a taste of the continent to make our taste buds sing Il Forno’s praises. Paolo says, ‘When I came to Liverpool, I wanted to bring some of the freshest Italian ingredients to the people of my new city. In Basilicata, where I grew up, it is a tradition to start cooking from a very young age and you soon learn how simple ingredients, prepared in the right way, can bring food to life. I strongly believe that my upbringing has led me to the success I have had with Il Forno and that is something I plan to pass onto my family for future generations.’ Il Forno prides itself on its authentic Italian approach

to cooking. Diners can expect only homemade dishes that are prepared in Il Forno’s kitchen everyday, using ingredients sourced from the ﬁnest producers and using authentic Italian recipes that have been passed down Paolo’s family from generation to generation. Even though Il Forno boasts one of the largest dining areas in Liverpool, able to accommodate up to 150 diners at any one time, it most certainly doesn’t compromise on the quality or service. It is this attention to detail and strive for excellence that has led Paolo and Il Forno to boast one of the largest award cabinets in Liverpool, which would make any chef green with envy.

Having won the critically acclaimed PAPA Gold Award for the past ﬁve years, in addition to winning Liverpool’s Best Bar & Restaurant in 2010 and 2011, it is clear Il Forno has no intention of slowing its pace to become the leading restaurant in its ﬁeld. Il Forno, 132 Duke Street, East Village, Liverpool L1 5AG Tel: 0151 709 4002 www.ilforno.co.uk, info@ilforno. co.uk, Twitter: @ilfornouk Mon-Thurs 12-2.30pm & 5.30-11pm, Fri-Sun 12-11pm

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Capesante Al Tartufo Nero Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Serves: 1 Ingredients: 3 Fresh King Scallops Ball of Fresh Spaghetti Fresh Black Truﬄe 1 Tablespoon Truﬄe Oil 10 Tablespoons Olive Oil 100g Cherry Tomatoes 50g Corn Salad 1 Teaspoon Sweet Paprika Salt and Black Pepper

Recipe

Instructions: Heat 10 tablespoons of olive oil into a pan on a medium heat and fry the fresh spaghetti for one minute before removing and leaving to cool. Trim the scallops and season with salt and pepper before cooking them in the pan for one minute each side. While the scallops are cooking, add the cherry tomatoes and corn salad around the side of a hot plate. Once the scallops have cooked, line them up on the plate and add shavings of fresh truﬄe to each one. Add the fried spaghetti that has been left to cool and dribble truﬄe oil across the dish before sprinkling with sweet paprika. Serve immediately.

www.bellinicocktailbar.com

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Brilliant Broccoli

Outdoor Running

It is common knowledge that anaemia (iron deﬁciency) can lead to poor concentration and broccoli is very rich in iron. Eating this superfood as well as other green leafy vegetables regularly can help ensure that your iron stores are fully loaded and as a result your concentration is sharper.

Research has shown that getting your heart rate up is only a positive for your brain, and running outdoors in particular is even better. Running on a treadmill only gives you one surface to deal with (not to mention that it’s laborious) but running through woods or a park makes your cerebellum (the part of the brain that deals with motor functions) work harder as it has to process a number of diﬀerent surfaces. It also helps with balance and coordination.

Scintillating Sardines

Oily ﬁsh are high in Omega-3 oils and DHA, and fatty acids are crucial to the health of our nervous system. Low DHA levels have been linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss. Sardines also contain iodine, which is known to improve mental clarity.

BOOSTING YOUR BRAIN Our nutrition consultant, Rebecca Greenberg, explores 5 ways to eat, sleep and exercise your mind to its full potential ecent research has suggested that learning a foreign language is the best way for us to boost our brainpower. However, for those of us who simply don’t have the time to sift through a doorstop-sized French encyclopaedia, there are other, less time-consuming ways in which to sharpen your mental ability.

Essential Eggs

Eggs contain virtually all we need for total body and cognitive function but most importantly they contain choline. This is a B vitamin that heightens the connectivity between nerve cells, making the transmission of information in your brain faster and more accurate.

Power Napping

Sleep is the main fuel for cognitive function so it is vital that you regularly get the amount you need, which can diﬀer from person to person. If you go to sleep straight after taking on new information you will remember it more clearly than if you’d remained awake for a while. For this reason a 30-minute nap taken during the natural ‘dip’ we experience after lunch is a good way to reboot the brain and allow it to properly consider the information it has just received. Please note: unless you have a very lovely, understanding boss, this technique is probably more suited to weekend brain boosting.

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Spring Into Action Practise your backhand at the same time as getting fi t with the fabulously fun Cardio Tennis workout at David Lloyd Leisure ummer is not long off now, and with it comes the warm breeze, beach attire and, perhaps, a pit in your stomach. Where have our shapely legs gone? Shortly we will all have to bare arms once the temperature rises, but fortunately David Lloyd Leisure in Speke has a new way to kick-start us into action. The latest fat-busting and heart-pumping activity is aptly named ‘Cardio Tennis’. Tennis is already an intense workout but add a master cardio component and your body will be hit with a fi tness maximus! Cardio Tennis is about full body and mind engagement, leading to a fantastic workout with amazing results. David Lloyd Leisure, a fabulous health and racquet club in Speke, is championing this form of exercise. David Lloyd is already top in the tennis training game and this natural evolution of bringing fun and aerobic tennis

training to its members is a perfect ﬁ t. So what exactly is Cardio Tennis? This high-energy activity combines the best aspects of exercise and banishes the boring bit of cardio. Cardio Tennis ticks all the boxes; not only is it social, calorie-busting and good for the full body – it also combines the best parts of tennis and is great fun for all ages and abilities. And the best part is that it includes music! As well as all of this, one of the best bodies on the planet is an advocate of Cardio Tennis. Tennis champ and model Anna Kournikova is a huge fan, saying, ‘Tennis gives your whole body a workout and Cardio Tennis takes it to another level.’ Teams of six to eight players form to take on a 30- to 50-minute cardio program plus a warm up and cool down. The sport combines traditional tennis practice

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with other stamina building skills. When running for the balls, you are also working on your racquet skills and hand-eye coordination. When you’re not hitting the balls, you are doing fast-paced drills and sideline exercises. Cardio Tennis is about getting people moving rather than smashing forehands and backhands. This group activity, complete with interval training, lifts your heart rate into the perfect aerobic zone, helping you to stay fi t and have fun. Most teams will have players of mixed abilities, which is no worry because your tennis professional will conduct the session to suit everyone’s needs. General manager of David Lloyd Leisure in Speke, Jake French, says, ‘Cardio Tennis is an exciting new group activity that’s gathering hundreds of new fans everyday. Not only does it provide the ultimate high-energy workout and a great alternative to the gym but it also develops your tennis skills – whatever your level of play. All evidence strongly suggests, too, that it can help reduce the risk of heart disease and will improve overall health and fi tness. So all in all, Cardio Tennis is a very welcome new addition to the range of activities that we off er.’

Beyond the fun and sweat, the results are fabulous. Women are said to burn between 300-500 calories per sessions whilst men can sweat out from 500-1,000 calories. For more information, call David Lloyd on 0151 494 4000, email mship.speke@davidlloyd.co.uk or visit David Lloyd Leisure at 6 The Aerodrome, Speke Road, Liverpool L24 8QD.

MEMBERSHIP

To try out Cardio Tennis and all the other great activities on offer at David Lloyd Speke, please make use of the free family day pass below.

A MONTH

£60

FROM ONLY

ERPOOL SPEKE DAVID LLOYD LIV

Find us opposite Speke Retail Park Call 0844 245 8076 or visit davidlloyd.co.uk/liverpoolspeke

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*Terms and conditions apply.

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Destination Luxury Peter Roberts sits down with Charlie Diakou of Crown Travel to ﬁ nd out why there’s no limit when it comes to creating the perfect holiday – whatever your budget

n 2006, Charlie Diakou took at look at Liverpool’s travel industry and saw a huge gap in the market. There was no one oﬀ ering a luxury, concierge style service. And so, with 20 years’ experience in the corporate travel industry, he bought Crown Travel, with plans to oﬀ er a personal service with attention to detail, regardless of budget. And that is exactly what he has achieved. With Crown’s variety of clients and budgets, no trip is the same. From tours of the Far East, trips to Africa, and holidays to Hawaii, there is no task too big for Crown Travel. When asked about the most extravagant trip he’s organised, all Charlie would tell us is that it cost over £100,000 and involved the Caribbean and the US. But while this may seem like the epitome of luxury, Charlie tells us that real luxury is a state of mind: ‘For those people who normally self-cater, a 3* hotel can seem like pure luxury, whilst for others, only a private jet will do.’

Whether you want a private jet or not, no holiday is too big, small, extravagant or low-key; Crown Travel can cater to your every desire. When asked where he thinks we should be going on our next adventure, Charlie picks out South America, India and China. With the World Cup taking place in Rio next year followed by the Olympics in 2016, now is the time to go. While the journey may seem a long one, Charlie reminds us that the destination will never get any closer: ‘Travel is there for the taking. If it’s your dream, then you have to do it, regardless of the distance.’ India and China are countries rich in both history and culture and offer a completely new experience along with total relaxation at their spectacular beach resorts. Crown’s reputation now stretches outside of its Liverpoolbased clientele. Since being introduced through a client, Charlie has organised trips for David Guest, who he says has become a friend. Crown Travel likes to achieve this with all of its regular clients, so that they can create an air of informality whilst still offering a certain level of professionalism. But Guest isn’t the only celeb who appreciates the team over at Crown. ‘Part of my phone book looks like an A-Z of Motown stars,’ Charlie tells us, having recently made bookings for

celebrities including Katie Piper and Phil Tufnell. So where does Charlie see Crown Travel in the future? Using his experience in corporate travel, Charlie wants to see Crown expand into this sector as well as the showbiz world of tour management. Why spend your time searching the internet for a holiday when you can go to the experts? Charlie explains that if he and his team wouldn’t go on a trip, they wouldn’t sell it. And with a parting piece of advice, ‘the internet is not always the cheapest way and the cheapest way is not always the best way,’ we leave Charlie to ﬁ nish planning trips to the US, Fiji, Lebanon, Dubai and Africa…

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ONLINE OPTIMISATION Kris Tisdale explains how getting SEO and PR savvy can boost your website’s traﬃ c, proﬁ ts and reputation Online PR and SEO SEO and public relations have always had a lot in common and over the last 12 months we have increasingly heard the term ‘online PR’ in sales and marketing meetings. Although the term might be new, the actual process of online PR has been around for a lot longer.

What is online PR? Online PR is just a term used to manage your company’s reputation online. Traditional PR can be broken down into two main categories; raising brand awareness and crisis management. When talking about SEO, online PR tends to be the term used for the raising brand awareness part.

How should I be using online PR? The ﬁ rst thing you have to do is stop thinking about what would appeal to search engines and focus instead on what would appeal to your potential customers. Why not

call some of your existing ones and ask them what sort of information they would like to see on your website? You might get some unusual suggestions but don’t be too quick to dismiss them; your customers might have ideas that you could pay PR companies thousands of pounds to come up with. Once you have acted on the feedback, you need to let as many people know as possible. This is where you need to get creative, and social media is an obvious starting point. There are also thousands of news websites with large audiences and some of them will specialise in your chosen area. The first step is to approach them, as the vast majority are keen to fill their sites, often against tight deadlines. The next step is to repeat the process with local news agencies. It’s surprising how quickly you can be billed as an expert in your field and how much more traffic this will send to your website.

Can I do online PR myself? Yes. More often than not, you’ll be better placed to write the content yourself. I consider myself a competent author but I would not have a clue where to start writing about ﬂ ux capacitors or genital piercing (you would be surprised at the subjects I’ve been asked to blog about!) What tends to stop companies doing it themselves is time and resources; and this is where you need to balance the cost of your time against the cost of hiring a specialist to do it for you.

Who is better at online PR: a digital agency or a PR company? It depends on the companies in question. PR companies have started to realise they need to move into the digital world, and while some have done this with skill, a lot are still sitting on the fence and outsourcing their digital needs, including online PR, to digital agencies. A good digital agency, on the other hand, has been performing this service for the best part of 10 years. Ambos regularly performs online PR on behalf of its clients. I have some great case studies which I’d be happy to discuss with you if you feel you might beneﬁ t from one of our digital strategies. For further advice, please email kris@ambosdigital.com or call the office on 0800 774 7025.

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PRIVATE TRENDS

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We’ve hunted across the globe to bring you this ultimate guide to the latest trends currently taking the design world by storm

1. Bear Shelves, $2,000, (www.thefancy.com) 2. Manila Rope Light, $1,100, (www.thefancy.com) 3. Bitten Chocolate Pillow, $85, (www.thefancy.com) 4. MR T Bling by Yoni Atler, £POA 5. Mia Farrow Chair, £POA (www.jimmiemartin.com) 6. Dog Pod Lounge, $598, (www.etsy.com) 7. Champagne Cork Lighting, £POA, Alkesh Pakmar, (www.alkeshparmer.com)

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WINDOW DRESSING Elaine Cunningham reveals her top tips to spruce up a room through clever use of gorgeous curtains and fabrics Keep it in proportion Choose a treatment that suits the proportions of your room. For example, ﬂoor-length curtains look elegant against tall, slim windows in a high-ceilinged room. Short curtains can look skimpy, but a bold panel draws the eye to the centre of the curtain instead of its length.

Glam up plain fabric Give plain curtains a twist with a border in something more decadent. For example, pick out the background colour of a statement wallpaper design for your curtain fabric.

Update with accessories Use striking holdbacks to dress up inexpensive cotton drapes, or ﬁt a plain pole, then just swap the ﬁnials when you fancy a new look.

Go for a formal look with showy designs Disguise a tall, narrow window with glamorous drapes. Layer two complementary silk curtains and sweep them both to one side for a fuller, more luxurious look.

Brighten up a bay Try teaming patterned curtains with sheer coloured panels at a bay window. Curtains can be open during the day to let in light, while

the splash of colour keeps the wide expanse of window from looking too bare.

Make short windows appear taller To make a window look taller, use pelmets that are ﬁtted at ceiling height (as long as they still cover the top of the window) so the window appears to reach much higher.

Maximise light Hang curtains 30-45cm wide of the frame on each side, so that you can then push back the curtains and see the whole window. This also makes narrow windows appear wider.

Don’t skimp on fabric Cutting down on the amount of fabric you buy will look mean. Economise by opting for a lower cost fabric with the same eﬀect.

Our curtain service With over 50 years collectively in the curtain industry, Elaine Cunningham’s experienced designers craft beautiful made-to-measure curtains for every clients’ requirements. All curtains are beautifully ﬁnished using fabric from their extensive in-store range, with prices starting at £20 per metre for satins, silks, velvet, plain and patterned ranges.

At Elaine Cunningham Interiors your windows are in safe hands, with a wide variety of poles and exquisite finials to choose from to complement a wide range of headings including pinch pleat, tab tops, eyelet heads, pencil pleats, goblet heads and more. Interlined curtains are manufactured using linings of the highest quality, which can incorporate blackout lining for those clients who require it. As one of the leading providers of curtain finishings in the Northwest, Elaine Cunningham currently boasts an extensive client list, naming famous footballers and TV personalities as her customers. Elaine adds, ‘Over the years, we have worked hard to build a loyal clientele and our established curtain-making service has become one of our specialties. We have our own professional curtainmaker and fitter who can find solutions to even the most challenging of window surrounds, to ensure we provide a service of the highest quality. ‘Having such a well-trained in-house team allows us to turn around curtains to tight schedules, allowing adjustments to be made without timely delays.’

Elaine Cunningham Interiors is kindly oﬀering a free at-home curtain consultation for all Private Life readers. For a free, no obligation quote, call 0151 236 9280 or 0151 494 1555.

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Every year hundreds of children visit The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre with their families. Many face an anxious and worrying wait for treatment making an already traumatic time even more distressing. Our Children's Playroom Appeal will give our youngest patients and their families a colourful, creative and fun place at Clatterbridge to help take their mind of the treatment they are facing. But we urgently need your help to raise ÂŁ50,000 to make this worthwhile project happen. Cancer affects the whole family. Please donate and support our Children's Playroom Appeal today and help put a smile on the faces of hundreds of families across our region living with cancer. Visit www.clatterbridgecc.org.uk or call 0151 482 7948.

Thank you

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The Story of an Icon

Ged Flanagan explains how Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral, the largest in the UK and ﬁfth largest in the world, came to be such a prominent ﬁxture on the city’s skyline

n Tuesday 19th July 1904, the foundation stone of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral was laid by King Edward VII at a great open-air service, with a choir of a thousand voices singing the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus from Handel’s Messiah. On 25th October 1978, in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, there was a great service of thanksgiving to mark the completion of the cathedral, described as ‘a triumphant proclamation of hope’. The idea of the building was to form the centrepiece to the recently formed Diocese of Liverpool. Architects were invited in 1901 by public advertisement to submit portfolios of their work for consideration by Bodley and Shaw. From these, the two assessors selected a ﬁrst shortlist of architects to be invited to prepare drawings for the new building.

It was stipulated that the designs were to be in the Gothic style. In 1903, the assessors recommended a proposal submitted by the 22-year-old Giles Gilbert Scott, who was still an articled pupil working in Temple Moore’s practice, and had no existing buildings to his credit. He told the assessors that so far his only major work had been to design a pipe rack. The choice of winner was even more contentious with the cathedral committee when it was discovered that Scott was a Roman Catholic, but the decision stood. By 1904 the site was ready for construction to begin and the foundation stone was laid in the Lady Chapel, using mainly local sandstone quarried from the Liverpool suburb of Woolton. From the very early days of its origins to the beginning of its build just after the turn of the 20th century, through to its completion in 1978 (18 years after Scott’s death), the unfolding story of this great cathedral, the largest in the whole of the UK and the ﬁfth largest in the world, is both fascinating and quite unique. By 1924 work had progressed at an amazing rate and the high altar, chancel and the eastern transepts were constructed. This part formed the ﬁrst section of what was to become the main cathedral. World War One was a turning point and Gilbert Scott abandoned

his plans for two towers and opted instead for one massive tower. By 1941 the second phase was commenced under the new tower. During WWII the work continued very slowly. Miraculously, the severe damage caused to most of the city due to enemy bombs never aﬀected the cathedral, which escaped almost unscathed. One bomb did actually penetrate the roof space, but deﬂected and exploded on the street outside. The only damage was on the riverside where windows were smashed by explosions. The cathedral today is not only pivotal to the spiritual life of the city, but also ranks highly in the Northwest tourist attraction tables and in 2009, against formidable competition, won the accolade of ‘Best Large Visitor Attraction’ at the Northwest’s Annual Tourism Awards hosted by The Mersey Partnership. PRIVATE LIFE 63

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GREAT NEW RATES AT DAVID LLOYD LIVERPOOL SPEKE!

A MONTH

MEMBERSHIP FROM ONLY

£60 !

FIND US OPPOSITE SPEKE RETAIL PARK CALL 0844 245 8076 OR VISIT DAVIDLLOYD.CO.UK/LIVERPOOLSPEKE Terms and conditions apply.

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