Issue 325 June 2014 www.thechallenge.co.uk YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER INSIDE News: 0151 706 7411 Advertising: 0151 709 7567 Email: [email protected]Facebook: [email protected]Twitter: thechallenge6 Copy deadline: Thursday 3 July 2014 INFORMATION Keep up to date with THE CHALLENGE on our new website DEAL STRUCK TO SAVE HALL AND PARK Page 2 KNOWSLEY APPRENTICES SHORTLISTED FOR AWARDS Page 7 HUYTON CADETS NAMED THE BEST IN COUNTRY Page 18 BIG LUNCH, BIG FUN IN KIRKBY WITH HOME-START Page 22 4 - 6 and wheelchair vehicle’s Just £1.90 minimum fare Exclusive: Call for independent probe into Knowsley’s Taxi Licensing Department as Council respond to alligations The owners of eight private hire and taxi firms operating over 1,100 licensed vehicles between them have joined forces to call for an independent investigation into Knowsley Council’s taxi licensing department. They have urged Secretary of State for communities and local government Eric Pickles to intervene by ordering an investigation which Knowsley Council said that they would support this process. It follows a court case in Liverpool when magistrates overturned a decision by the council to revoke a taxi driver’s licence held by Liam Sweeney of Acorn Cars. Making their decision the magistrates were publicly critical of three of Knowsley Council’s officers, one of whom had embarked on covert surveillance by making a tape recording without authority of a conversation. That aspect of the case is now being investigated by HM Government’s official surveillance commissioner. It has now transpired in a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers that the council overcharged vehicle proprietors and private hire operators by £163,000 over a three year period. The call for an investigation has been made by Acorn Cars, Alpha Cars, Britannia Cars, All Black Cabs, KTS, J.M. Travel, Jay Donergan and Keven Doyle. Three of the operators, Acorn, J.M Travel and Alpha, say the relationship between their businesses and Knowsley Council forced them to switch their bases to neighbouring Liverpool where they enjoy good relationships with city licensing officers. A Knowsley Council spokesperson said, “The Council is surprised to hear that a number of taxi firms have joined forces with Acorn Cars, particularly since the Council has recently successfully prosecuted Acorn Cars for illegally operating in Knowsley after receiving numerous complaints from residents, drivers and other taxi firms who were being disadvantaged by the actions of Acorn Cars. “The figure of £163,000 quoted in relation to income raised by the Council through overcharging vehicle proprietors and private hire operators is completely unrelated to this particular case, but is also inaccurate and misleading – the net figure was in fact £61,000 over a four-year period and the surplus has already been reduced to £31,000 by reducing licensing fees. “Robust annual monitoring arrangements and policies are in place to manage this process. The Council’s accounting practices in relation to licensing fees was subject to in-depth internal review when the matter was first raised in 2010 followed by an independent review and approval by the Council’s external auditors. The Council has put in place steps to make the necessary restitution where fees have been over or under recovered. “The taxi firm operators making the call for a probe jointly say the experience of Acorn Cars exposes what they all consider to be a problematic relationship with taxi licensing officers at Knowsley.” Liam Sweeney said: “What happened to me is not untypical in Knowsley. The Liam Sweeney of Acorn Cars ‘FARE’ DEAL OVER TAXIS • Continued on Page 3
Keep up to date with THE CHALLENGEon our new website
DEAL STRUCK TO SAVE HALLAND PARK
Page 2
KNOWSLEY APPRENTICES SHORTLISTED FOR AWARDS
Page 7
HUYTON CADETS NAMED THEBEST IN COUNTRY
Page 18
BIG LUNCH, BIG FUN IN KIRKBYWITH HOME-START
Page 22
4 - 6 and wheelchair vehicle’s
Just £1.90 minimum fare
Exclusive: Call for independent probe into Knowsley’s Taxi
Licensing Department as Council respond to alligations
The owners of eight private hire
and taxi firms operating over
1,100 licensed vehicles between
them have joined forces to call
for an independent investigation
into Knowsley Council’s taxi
licensing department.
They have urged Secretary of State forcommunities and local government EricPickles to intervene by ordering aninvestigation which Knowsley Council saidthat they would support this process.
It follows a court case in Liverpool whenmagistrates overturned a decision by thecouncil to revoke a taxi driver’s licenceheld by Liam Sweeney of Acorn Cars.
Making their decision the magistrateswere publicly critical of three of KnowsleyCouncil’s officers, one of whom hadembarked on covert surveillance bymaking a tape recording without authorityof a conversation.
That aspect of the case is now beinginvestigated by HM Government’s officialsurveillance commissioner.
It has now transpired in a report byPricewaterhouseCoopers that the councilovercharged vehicle proprietors andprivate hire operators by £163,000 over athree year period.
The call for an investigation has beenmade by Acorn Cars, Alpha Cars, BritanniaCars, All Black Cabs, KTS, J.M. Travel, JayDonergan and Keven Doyle.
Three of the operators, Acorn, J.M Traveland Alpha, say the relationship betweentheir businesses and Knowsley Councilforced them to switch their bases toneighbouring Liverpool where they enjoygood relationships with city licensingofficers.
A Knowsley Council spokesperson said,“The Council is surprised to hear that anumber of taxi firms have joined forceswith Acorn Cars, particularly since theCouncil has recently successfullyprosecuted Acorn Cars for illegally
operating in Knowsley after receivingnumerous complaints from residents,drivers and other taxi firms who werebeing disadvantaged by the actions ofAcorn Cars.
“The figure of £163,000 quoted inrelation to income raised by the Councilthrough overcharging vehicle proprietorsand private hire operators is completelyunrelated to this particular case, but is alsoinaccurate and misleading – the net figurewas in fact £61,000 over a four-year periodand the surplus has already been reducedto £31,000 by reducing licensing fees.
“Robust annual monitoringarrangements and policies are in place tomanage this process. The Council’saccounting practices in relation tolicensing fees was subject to in-depthinternal review when the matter was firstraised in 2010 followed by an independentreview and approval by the Council’sexternal auditors. The Council has put inplace steps to make the necessaryrestitution where fees have been over orunder recovered.
“The taxi firm operators making the callfor a probe jointly say the experience ofAcorn Cars exposes what they all considerto be a problematic relationship with taxilicensing officers at Knowsley.”
Liam Sweeney said: “What happened tome is not untypical in Knowsley. The
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LINSKILLS SOLICITORS
DEAL STRUCK TO SAVEHALL AND PARKA deal has been agreed which
will secure the future of the rare
breeds farm at Croxteth Hall
and Country Park.
Following months of detailednegotiations, Mayor Joe Andersonhas reached agreement with AltValley Community Trust over anew partnership to take over thefarm.
It will see the Trust working withMyerscough College and nearbyLarkins Farm to give it a viablefuture with a focus on education,training and agriculture.
The farm currently costs£200,000 a year to subsidise, andthe council has been looking forthe past year at how it can secureits future at a time when it has lost58 percent of its controllablebudget due to cuts in CentralGovernment funding.
Mayor of Liverpool JoeAnderson said: “I know howimportant Croxteth Hall andCountry Park is to people –because it is hugely important tome as well - and I am absolutelycommitted to its future.
“We have been talking forseveral months to Larkins Farmand Alt Valley Community Trustabout entering into thispartnership, not only to keep thefarm open but also invest anddevelop it for the future.
“I am pleased to say that we arenow in a position where we areable to announce that we havedone that, and look to completethe deal that provides thereassurance people have beenseeking over its future.
“The simple fact is that we haveless than half the money that weused to. That means we have tolook at innovative ways tocontinue to provide amenitiessuch as Croxteth Farm as wesimply can’t afford to subsidise itto the tune of hundreds ofthousands of pounds.
“People should rest assuredthat across the council, we areworking quietly and diligently to
find other innovative ways ofprotecting services that they arepassionate about if we possiblycan.
Phil Knibb, executive director atAlt Valley Community Trust, said: “Iam delighted that we have beenable to reach agreement on thisexciting partnership.
“We are confident we will beable to make the farm sustainablein the long term and are excited atits potential as an education,agriculture and training centre.
“We look forward to workingwith the partners and the localcommunity to make our vision areality.”
Section 30 in WhistonMerseyside Police iscontinuing its efforts tocrackdown on anti-socialbehaviour in the RopersBridge area of Whiston bybringing in a Section 30‘designated area’ to stopgroups of people fromcongregating.
The designated area will runfor three months from Sunday 1June to Monday 1 September. Itwill cover the area of RopersBridge Close in Whiston,including Little Croft and theadjoining vehicle parking areas.
The order will be in forceevery day between 6pm andmidnight.
Dedicated NeighbourhoodSergeant for Whiston, TerryPearson, said: “Reducing anti-
social behaviour is one of ourkey priorities in Whistonbecause we know it’s somethingthat really matters to our localcommunity.
“We are working hard withour partners, including theCouncil, to look at a range ofmeasures to tackle recentproblems surrounding peoplecongregating in the RopersBridge area and the Section 30order will help us to do this.
“The order will be regularlypatrolled by uniformed officerswho will be targeting the smallminority of people who aredetermined to cause problemsfor local people and businesses.
“It’s not aimed at the vastmajority of law abiding people inWhiston”.
The Prescot Festival will commemorate thecentenary of the outbreak of World War Onelater this month.
Local schools will submit artwork to a specialWWI-themed exhibition in Prescot’s 17th-centuryparish church during the arts and music festival,which runs from 20 to 29 June.
The ‘Local Heroes, Distant Voices’ exhibition atKnowsley Park Centre for Learning runs throughoutthe festival, closing on 28 June.
Other nods to both world wars are pepperedthroughout the week’s events, including Glen Millertunes at ‘Dinner with Dr Jazz & the Cheshire Cats,’the ‘Dambusters’ march on Phoenix ConcertOrchestra’s opening night, and an all-British, Proms-
style finale.“Wartime and the outbreak of war will be on
everyone’s minds as this year progresses,” saidartistic director Dr Robert Howard, “so we’ve triedto reflect that in our programming.”
“We’ve got plenty more for all tastes in this year’sfestival, including a gala concert from one of theUK’s top brass bands and a return visit from one-time parish organist Professor Dr Ian Tracey, nowbest-known for his association with LiverpoolCathedral and the Royal Liverpool PhilharmonicChoir.”
More information about the 10th Annual PrescotFestival of Music & the Arts is atwww.prescotfestival.co.uk
Merseyside Festival Remembers WWI
Free childcare places Families with children who will soon be celebrating their secondbirthday may be eligible for a free, part-time childcare place.
Knowsley Council has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the freechildcare places so families with children who may be entitled don’t miss out.
Children turning two before 1 September this year may be able to claim upto 15 hours of free childcare during school term-time, or up to 11and a halfhours a week spread over 50 weeks (including the school holidays).
The free places will be provided in local childcare settings rated good oroutstanding by Ofsted. This includes privately run nurseries, child mindersand some schools from September 2014.
Cllr Gary See, cabinet member for children and family services inKnowsley, said: “We don’t want families to miss out so we’ve launched acampaign to help raise awareness of the free childcare places for two yearolds.
“During June and July there will be a series of events around the boroughproviding information for families and details on how to apply for the freechildcare.
“Alternatively, families can just call into their local Children’s Centre to findout more, or call Knowsley’s Childcare Information Service on 0800 0852022 (option 1).”
Families in receipt of a range of benefits may be entitled to a free place.To find out more, call into your local Children’s Centre, contact your
health visiting team or call the Childcare Information Service on 0800085 2022 (option 1) or 0151 443 5635.
Huyton Crime Prevention event A home security event is being held by Merseyside Police onFriday 20 June at the Gleeson show home on Hillside Avenue.
The event runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm and everyone from thecommunity is invited to attend.
Officers from the Huyton neighbourhood policing team will beoffering practical advice to residents about the best security measuresfor their homes. There will be demonstrations on how to use certaincrime prevention tools such as marking kits and alarms.
There will also be an opportunity for members of the public toregister their property such as mobile phones, tablets and laptopswith the police on the Immobilise database in case they are ever lostor stolen. This will allow the owner to be identified if the property isrecovered.
June 2014 3
Prospective Parliamentarycandidate calls for partyleader to step downIn an open letter Prescot Councillor CarlCashman, the Lib Dem ProspectiveParliamentary Candidate for Knowsleyhas revealed that he has signed The LibDems 4 Change letter asking for NickClegg to step down as leader.
Cllr Cashman said: “I do not do this lightly,as I believe that Nick is a smart and a decentman.
“I certainly do not believe that a change ofleader will miraculously transform ourfortunes, I think that to do that we need tochange our approach and win back the heartsand minds of our supporters.
“I have signed the letter because I believethat Nick Clegg’s position in now untenable,and that I would be very uncomfortable withhim leading the party post 2015 GeneralElection.
“This is a tough time for the LiberalDemocrats and I fully understand andappreciate the concerns of many of oursupporters.
“I have always been slightly uncomfortablewith our position in Government, particularlybecause I do not see the Conservative Partyas a progressive party. However, I am aproponent of coalition politics, I believe that it
has worked very well in countries such asGermany.
Cllr Cashman went on to say: “I would liketo take the opportunity to thank all of oursupporters across Knowsley for their vote inthe local and European elections.
“I value your support greatly and I hopethat in the coming months I can solidify thatsupport and also win many of our supportersback with a convincing local and nationalargument.”
Cllr Carl Cashman
ADOPT NORTH WEST THANKSOUR READERS FOR THEIROVERWHELMING SUPPORTSince launching Adopt North West – a
collaboration between 22 of the
region’s local authorities to raise
awareness of the need for adopters –
in March this year, over one thousand
people have made enquiries about
adopting a child.
In Knowsley almost four times as manypeople have made enquiries with theadoption service than during the sametime period of time last year.
The councils involved are astounded bythe numbers of new potential adoptersand want to thank The Challenge readersfor their ongoing support.
Cllr Gary See, Knowsley cabinetmember for children and family services,said: “I’m delighted that the first everNorth West Adoption Week was receivedso well and encouraged people whopreviously thought they wouldn’t be ableto adopt to find out more.
“Often people think they may not beable to adopt, or that it’s an overly long
process, but actually single people, non-homeowners, those who are in fulltimeemployment, same-sex couples andpeople over 50 are among those whocan apply.
“Adoption gives people the chance tonot only change their own life, but tomake a real difference to someone else’s,too. I’d strongly urge anyone who isconsidering adoption to visit the AdoptNorth West website and find out moretoday.”
John Daly, Assistant Director forChildren’s Services at Bolton Council,who is heading up the campaign, said:“The level of interest we’ve had acrossthe region is amazing – it’s surpassed ourexpectations, so we would like to thankeveryone who has read, shared andtalked about Adopt North West in thepast few months.”
For more information, or to register
your interest in adopting, please visit
www.adoptnorthwest.co.uk/
‘FARE’ DEALOVER TAXISchairman of Knowsley licensingcommittee sitting in private with a seniorcouncil officer present, decreed I was ‘nota fit and proper person’ to hold a licence.
“I was also given a 12-month ban fromentering any council building in theborough, including their libraries andsport centres.
“I was also banned from driving anyprivate hire vehicle licensed by Knowsley.
“When the magistrates in Liverpoolheard the evidence the chairman publiclyand in open court described me as aman of good character and a ‘fit andproper person’.
“There is something dramatically wrongwhen in Knowsley I am treated like avillain and over the border in Liverpool Iam liked and respected.
“My belief is this shows avindictiveness within Knowsley. Butmoreover what has happened to me hasopened a Pandora’s Box and other taxioperators now want the chance to havetheir say on the way they are treated byKnowsley Council.
“We have directed the call for theinvestigation to Eric Pickles MP as we arenot convinced Knowsley Council will takethis matter seriously.
“Mr Pickles constantly says he is infavour of openness and fairness in localgovernment as well as being supportiveof local businesses and communities.
“Apart from that we do not know if anyofficers or councillors are implicated inthe harsh treatment we have allexperienced. That will be for anindependent investigation to determineonce all the facts have been heard.”
A Knowsley Council spokespersonsaid: “Mr Sweeney was witnessedbehaving in an intimidating manner, andthreatening a Council officer. This is notsomething which the Council toleratesand therefore we stand by our originaldecision to revoke his licence.
“Our decision was subsequentlyoverturned in a Magistrates’ Court, andwe are disappointed by the Magistrates’decision. Mr Sweeney’s licence will be re-issued. Although the Magistrates upheldthe appeal, they also specifically warnedMr Sweeney about his future conductand stated that an application for costswould be refused, which means that theyfelt that the Council had acted honestly,reasonably, and properly in its public duty.
“Mr Sweeney’s assertion that revokinglicences is common practice in Knowsleyis incorrect. In fact, the Council has onlytaken such action five times over the last12 months. In comparison, there areapproximately 1,100 licence holders in theBorough.
“Knowsley Council has a good workingrelationship with the majority of our taxidrivers, vehicle owners and operators.
“We will continue to talk to all of ourKnowsley taxi firms to discuss anyconcerns they have”.
• Continued from Page1
HALEWOOD VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATE Halewood engineers and graduates have
been working on a special education
project with business and maths students
from All Saints Catholic High School.
The team of 4 A-Level students and theirteacher were challenged to develop a newmechanism to hold down the spare wheel inEvoque and Freelander to reduce the timeneeded to unfasten the current windingmechanism and be appropriate for apremium brand.
Ken Jones and Roland Hayward led theproject, with support from graduates AdamMcGee, Steven Thoms, Martin Bell.
The team started work on the EngineerEducation Scheme (EES) project inSeptember and met the students weekly todevelop their ideas, including a three dayresidential workshop hosted at TheUniversity of Liverpool.
The students attended a ‘Celebration andAssessment Day’ at the University to markthe end of their projects and compare theirachievements with their peers. SteveWoodward from PVT supported the day as ajudge.
Team member Danny Woods, said: “Ihave learnt many things from participating in
this project especially how to think like anengineer and how teamwork plays a largerole in completing these kinds of projects inindustry. I have gained confidence inchallenging situations and deliveringpresentations and am now interested inapplying for an apprenticeship, which Ihadn’t considered before.”
Josh Mulholland added: “I have gainedconfidence in presenting and being a teamleader. One of my jobs was to manage ourMaster Schedule, which they use in theplant, and this planning tool worked well forus. It was great to work with the Halewoodengineers whose advice and support reallyhelped us when we faced challenges.”
Brendan Chorley, deputy headteacher atAll Saints Catholic High School added: “TheEES project has given students invaluablereal world experience in a way that theclassroom can’t. The project allowed them todevelop their skills and has given them areal sense of achievement. The mentorsupport added a hugely valuable dimension.Special thanks to everyone from JaguarLand Rover for all of the time and effortyou’ve put into making this project asuccess”.
4 June 2014
Kirkby Blinds Direct LtdManufactures of all types of blinds
EnChord act the ‘Experience’ playing at the Picket in Liverpool
Talented young musicians and singersfrom Knowsley played to a 150 strongcrowd at the Picket in Liverpool.
The ten ‘EnChord’ acts performed rap,rock, solo sets and DJ sets at the packed gig.The highlight of the evening was Valentine 3’sheadline act which was a roaring success.
EnChord is a group of 13 to 19-year-oldswho came together as part of a KnowsleyLeisure and Culture Service project inStockbridge Village. The group run musicworkshops as well as gigging themselves.
The day after the Picket gig severalmembers of the group boarded a train to thecapital to meet with London Weekend ArtsCollege (WAC) as part of a musicalexchange.
The group took part in a master class withyoung people from WAC which focused onthe origins of Hip Hop and R&B. They alsohad a look around the college and met withthe staff.
Talks are now underway for joint annualgigs in both Liverpool and London.
Sarah Craven, principal of leisure andculture, said: “It was a fantastic few days forEnChord. There was a great atmosphere atthe gig and all the acts went down a storm.
“These young people love music and reallyenjoyed the chance to perform in front of, andhopefully inspire, other like-mindedyoungsters.”
Eliza Brittles, EnChord co-ordiantor,added: “The trip to London was reallyinsightful for the group and hopefully it willlead on to annual gigs for them in bothLiverpool and London.”
EnChord is a youth music project for youngpeople aged 13-19 years who reside inKnowsley.
If you or someone you know would liketo join, contact Eliza Brittles on 0151443 2543 or [email protected]
CARERS WEEK FUNDRAISING RIDEThis coming Friday 13th June, three
members of staff from Knowsley
Carers Centre will be getting on their
bikes to raise money for carers across
Knowsley.
Ian McBrias, Andrea McMahon and AnnBurke will be cycling between the threeCarers Centre offices starting out at theRoseheath Centre, Halewood via The OldSchoolhouse, Huyton to the main office inBewley Drive, Kirkby.
All funds raised through sponsorshipwill be spent on activities for the carers ofKnowsley such as trips out and theirannual Christmas party.
Knowsley Carers Centre offers lots ofactivities for carers to get involved withhelping to ensure they have a chance topursue their own interests and have abreak.
Ian is a carer himself and knows howimportant it is to be able to do somethingthat takes you away from your caring rolefor a while.
“I’ve recently taken up cycling to getmyself a bit fitter because I know it’s reallyimportant for carers to look after their ownhealth as well as the people they care for.
“I’m really enjoying getting out andabout; it gives me a break and helps mecope better with whatever challenges lifebrings my way.”
Other activities taking place duringCarers Week include a craft day onMonday 9 and an IT Day on Tuesday 10
June. On Thursday 12 June forty carerswill be heading off to take part in theAntiques Road Show in Cumbria.
If you’re looking after a relative, friend, orneighbour who has a long term illness,disability, mental ill health or substancemisuse problem, you can contactKnowsley Carers Centre on 0151 5491412, to find out more about services andsupport available to help carers or visit ourwebsite at www.knowsleycarers.co.uk
You can support carers across theborough by sponsoring Ian, Ann andAndrea. Drop into one of Knowsley CarersCentre offices, or you can donate via ourJust Text Giving page by texting DONA08£? to 70070.
The minimum text donation is GBP £1and all donations must be whole poundssterling. The maximum donation allowedis GBP £10 for all mobile operators.
Donations sent via text will usually incuryour standard text message fee, pleaserefer to your tariff for details.
For anyone needing a bit ofencouragement to get back on their bikethere are community cycle rides to suitdiffering levels of confidence andcompetence organised by cycle hubs aspart of the Pedal Away Big Lottery fundedproject. For more information contactKevin McCann [email protected] 07971476520 or Lou [email protected]
Pictured are Ann Burke, Andrea McMahon and Ian McBrias from Knowsley Carers Centre
alongside Kevin McCann from Pedal Away.
June 2014 5
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The National Wildflower Centre will be holding a Midsummer Family BBQ on
Saturday 21 June.
The evening takes place at the National Wildflower Centre, Court Hey Park, Huytonfrom 6.30-9.30pm.
They will have tasty food, fantastic live music, a raffle with lots of great prizes and aChildren’s treasure hunt trail.
You can enjoy a fabulous evening amongst the wildflowers. Don’t forget you canbring your own wine and beer with you!
All money raised will help the centre to continue its good work. If it rains (always a possibility….) they will be using the Cornflower Café.Tickets cost £10 per adult and £5 per child (under 12) and must be booked in
advance from the Cornflower café or by emailing [email protected] or by phoning0151 738 1913.
For more information about our events please check out www.nwc.org.uk or [email protected]
FAMILY BBQ AT CENTRE
CAST YOUR VOTES FOR YOURFAVOURITE CHARITY OF THE YEARPrescot Shopping Centre is asking for
members of the public to get on
Facebook this June, in order to vote
for its partnership charity of the year.
The initiative comes after the Centrewanted to give back to the community byraising important funds for the causesclosest to the local community.
The three local branch charities thathave been shortlisted by retailers atPrescot Shopping Centre include:Willowbrook Hospice, the RSPCA,Liverpool branch and Prescot ChurchRoof Fund.
Victoria Nichol, centre manager atPrescot Shopping Centre, said: “It is
great to be running this charitypartnership initiative and I can’t wait tosee who the public choose.
“The three charities shortlisted doabsolutely fantastic work and I know itwill be a very tough call.
“We hope that the local communityfeel involved in this process and that wecan raise vital funds for whoever ischosen.”
The public are able to vote for theirfavourite charity by visiting the PrescotShopping Centre Facebook page:www.facebook.com/prescotshoppingcentrethroughout the month of June.
Voting will end at 5pm on Monday 30.
CHANGE THE LIFE OFA CHILD IN JUST AFEW HOURS A WEEKLeading charity Action for Children is
appealing for volunteer mentors in
Knowsley to help children aged
between five and 11 with emotional or
behavioural difficulties.
Action for Children’s Liverpool andKnowsley Junior Mentoring Programme issearching for people from the Knowsleyarea who can spare a few hours a weekto give much needed support to avulnerable child.
Lisa Corcoran, volunteer co-ordinator atAction for Children in Knowsley said: “Weare looking for mentors to help childrenwith specific difficulties such as angermanagement or communication andimprove their lives by broadening theirhorizons and hopes for the future.
“We currently have a shortage ofmentors so are urgently appealing foranyone who thinks they would like tooffer this kind of support to a vulnerablechild to get in touch.”
Mentors will receive support andtraining and are expected to commit fortwelve months, meeting with the child ona weekly basis for two to four hours.
Having a mentor helps children byintroducing more stability, reducingisolation, providing support, helping them
channel their energy more positively andhelping them deal with conflict.
Colin Pape, 35, from Garston has beena mentor with Action for Children sincelast June, said: “Seeing the improvementin the child I have been mentoring hasbeen so rewarding and well worth theeffort I have put in.
“Mentoring works to help raise thechild’s confidence and self-belief.
“Having a stable adult influence canmake all the difference to a child andgetting in there early can prevent seriousproblems developing as the childbecomes an adolescent.
“We need more people to becomementors. If we don’t do anything tosupport vulnerable young people nowwhat is their future going to look like?”
SAVED BY THE ONE!The continuing story of Stephen Black and his fight toprove that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
My tattoo came in two parts and was
kindly given free of charge by the kind
owner and his assistant at Oakeys
Tattoo Studio on Mackets Lane,
Halewood which I would highly
recommend, not just because it was
free, as the tattoo artist created such
an amazing piece of artwork.
My tattoos have been completed to thehighest standard and this is shown bythem never blistering or swelling.
The first part of my tattoo was ‘TheOne’. People must have thought ‘he’s bigheaded’ but I don’t mind as the tattoowas not the finished article (neither am I).
The tattoo was shaped as a cross, torepresent how God saved me andawakened me from my coma whichultimately protected me from death. Italso represents how God is still protectingme every day of my life.
If you had known me from before my‘accident’ you will know that I came very,very close to death but it’s true what theysay ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you
stronger’. I am now a lot stronger than Ihave ever been and still getting strongerwith each day that passes. I have come along way since my accident with a lotmore to come, so watch out City ofLiverpool, I’m coming!
I plan to do this by helping others lessfortunate than I who cannot always helpthemselves. I think that by doing this I amacting upon God’s message to me and Iam paying back what I owe to Him forsaving my life.
This tattoo is a representation andreminds me of how much God hashelped me and how much I want to repayhim by helping others. People have triedand will try to stop me or slow me downbut, as I have proven on my first venture‘Walk in Water’ which I have posted onYouTube (feel free to take a look justGoogle Stephen Black walk in water andyou will be able to view it).
My second venture will be added on7th July and the final one addedsometime next summer. When I have the‘bit between my teeth’, I am hard to stop.
The second part of my tattoo is simple:The One has been transformed into theangel who saved me from death. I wantto say a big, big thank you from thebottom of my heart, as I don’t know if it’sa male or female angel (or the angelsname), I will call it ‘The One’ I had ittattooed on.
Why on my back? That’s simple too, soI know the one has always got my backcovered. The picture is below, what doyou think?
Knowsley Flower Show willcommemorate World War IKnowsley’s fabulousFlower Show returnsto Court Hey Park inHuyton on Sunday 3August.
The largest freehorticultural show in thenorth west will this yearcommemorate thecentenary of World WarI.
Local soldiers will bein World War I uniformgreeting visitors andhosting question andanswer sessions. PrescotMuseum will stage arange of WWI themedexhibits including areplica trench completewith audio visual effects.
As always the showpromises to be a great family day out withsomething for all ages from the H&M DogDisplay team and Mersey Morris Menperformances to face painting andfairground rides.
The local army reserves will have a rangeof activities for visitors and there’ll also be amobile climbing rock at the show.Meanwhile, visitors will be treated to livemusical performances from local Knowsleychildren.
There will also be the fabulous craftmarquee and Geraud Produce Market.
All of this is in addition to the stunningfloral marquee which will house hundreds offantastic horticultural displays.
A free shuttle bus service to the showground will operate from locations acrossthe borough. Car parking is limited sovisitors are encouraged to use the freeshuttles. Timetables will be published twoweeks before the event on the website.
To find out more information, or toenter the show, or book a place at theshow ring 0151 443 5749 or visitwww.knowsleyflowershow.com
Captain Andy Bowdler, in modern combat uniform and
Captain Paul Knight, in the 1914 uniform
CRACKDOWN ON SCRAMBLERSIn response to growing public concern and an increase in the number of bikes
being ridden illegally in our region, Merseyside Police will be undertaking an
operation over the summer months targeting off road bikes.
The operation centres on areas where communities have suffered from the illegaland anti-social use of scrambler bikes.
Activities include enforcement of traffic laws, increased high visibility and plain-clothes patrols and education in schools about the dangers of using scrambler bikesillegally. Updates throughout the operation will be published on the Merseyside Policewebsite www.merseyside.police.uk.
If you see anybody using an off-road bike anti-socially please contact us on 101. Youcan also provide information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
June 2014 7
KNOWSLEY APPRENTICESSHORTLISTED FOR APPRENTICESHIP AWARDSThree of Knowsley’s most hardworking
apprentices have been shortlisted for
the prestigious Liverpool City Region
Apprenticeship Awards.
The three apprentices, who willcompete to be named KnowsleyApprentice of the Year, are Paul Knox ofStrutec NW who studies at City ofLiverpool College, and Melissa Murphyand Louise Richards of The GraduatesSalon who both study at The TrainingStation.
The shortlisted Knowsley apprenticesmust now wait until the 20 June when thewinner will be announced alongsideApprentice of the Year winners from thefive other Merseyside boroughs.
Coinciding with the InternationalFestival for Business, the secondLiverpool City Region ApprenticeshipAwards will take place in an exquisitemarquee situated in Lord Derby’s estateand will once again celebrate the region’smost promising apprentices along withthe most committed employers.
The first Apprenticeship Awards tookplace in early 2013 with a fantasticinaugural ceremony at St George’s Halland this year’s event is set to be evenbigger.
Greater Merseyside Learning ProvidersFederation (GMLPF) will be the mainsponsor of the event for the second yearrunning.
Debbie Tagoe, Chair of GMLPF, says:“The awards are a very important eventfor our region as they bring the localcommunity together and allow us tocelebrate the hardworking, high achievingindividuals in our area.
“The awards, which are driven by localproviders and employers, also recognisethe dedicated employers who train ourregion’s talented apprentices.”
Liverpool-based facilities managementcompany and social enterprise Vivark isalso sponsoring the 2014 awards and,along with GMPLF, continues to helpestablish the Liverpool City RegionApprenticeship Awards as a key date inLiverpool’s commercial calendar.
Tony Cahill, executive director of
business and service development atVivark, says: “Vivark is proud to sponsorthis year’s Liverpool City RegionApprenticeship Awards because we firmlybelieve apprentices are a real asset toany business.
“Apprentices add value to communitiesby giving young people, who may nototherwise have had the opportunity, aroute to start work.
“By creating these opportunities foryoung people, we can help boost theiraspirations and give them the confidenceto strive forward with their career.
“I began my career as an apprenticeand it was the best possible foundation Icould have hoped for.”
Armed Forces DayTo commemorate the centenary of thestart of World War I the Veterans Fundwill be holding a Armed Forces Day.
The event takes place at Princes Park,Southport on Saturday 28 June at 11.00am.
The event starts with a parade on LordStreet, Southport at 10.30 which will make itway to Princes Park and will include militaryvehicles, displays, stalls, entertainment andchildren’s rides.
The event promises a great day out for allthe family and a fitting day in honouringBritain’s armed forces past, present andfuture.
Summer FayreWillowbrook Hospice will be holdingtheir annual Summer Fayre & AfternoonTea party at the Our Lady of PorticoChurch on Portico Lane, Prescot onSaturday 28 June 2014 from 1.00pm to4.00pm.
Entry is free, so come along with the kidsand grab yourself a bargain at one of themany stalls, let the kids win a prize at one ofthe games, or simply come down for tea andcakes. There will also be a plant sale and giftstalls.
For further information you can contactEmily at the fundraising office on 01744453798.
8 June 2014
Free, fun summer cycling inKnowsley with Sky Ride LocalSummer is just about here – and with itcomes British Cycling’s Sky Ride Localprogramme in Knowsley.
The popular programme of rides, guidedby trained British Cycling ride leaders,started in Knowsley in June and rides will betaking place all over the borough.
Organised by British Cycling and Sky, inpartnership with Knowsley Council, Sky RideLocal offers local people the chance to joinorganised, guided rides of varying distancesand difficulties – ranging from easygoingspins around picturesque parts of Knowsley,through to ‘steady’ and ‘challenging’ rides,for those seeking a little more adventure.
Andrew McCormick, Knowsley Council’sdirector of community and leisure, said:“Cycling has never been more popular, andwhatever your age or fitness level, it’s easy toget involved.
“The Sky Rides programme offer a range
of levels so there is something for everyone.The programme is completely free of charge,so sign up today and not only enjoy the scenicborough on two wheels, but get fit at thesame time!”The next rides coming up in Knowsley are:Liverpool Commute (steady ride)Sunday 15 June10am start - Stockbridge VillageNeighbourhood CentreThe Grand Tour of Stadt Moers Park (easygoing ride)Sunday 22 June10am start - Stadt Moers Park
Sky Ride Local is just one of many waysBritish Cycling and the council areencouraging people to get out on their bikesthis summer.
Visit www.goskyride.com/Knowsley(guided rides) to find out more or bookyour place.
SHOW EVOKES WARTIMENOSTALGIA AT KNOWSLEYLEISURE & CULTURE PARK
Wartime songs and memories will be brought to life in nostalgic comedy Bless
‘Em All! at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park in June.
The show is presented by Duggie Chapman Associates, the team behind We’ll MeetAgain, which was so well received by audiences across the UK in 2011.
Bless ‘em All! is another bright and breezy wartime revue, starring comedyentertainer Steve Barclay. Joining him in the cast are ukulele virtuoso Andy Eastwoodand singing star Lucia Mattess.
Some of the old favourites from We’ll Meet Again will be revisited in this show,including songs from Vera Lynn, Al Jolson, George Formby and Gracie Fields. With allthe great songs and music of the 1940s, this is damp eye nostalgia, sure to leave youwith a warm and sentimental glow.
With full supporting cast of singers Jamie Steen and Mervyn Drancis and the livemusic of the Martyn St James Band, Bless ‘em All! is a tribute to all our armed forces –from yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Tickets are £12, or £10 concessions. If you buy 10 tickets, you’ll get one free. To book, call 0151 443 2575/2200.
A POLISHED PERFORMANCEFOR WOODLANDS HOSPICE
There were no half measures for Lynn Porter when she decided to raise money
for Woodlands Hospice!
Lynn and her family were so grateful for the care and support that her Mum AnneHughes had received when she was cared for at Woodlands Hospice in October 2013that she decided to fund raise in Anne’s memory.
Lynn invited staff at Serco Global Services in Aintree where she is an employee toshave her head in return for a donation towards her fund raising efforts.
Staff each took it in turns to shave off Lynn’s shoulder length blonde hair and all inall a whopping £1,268 has been raised to date with more money still being donated.
Lynn and her step-father Brian recently came into Woodlands Hospice to presentthe monies raised and care staff were very keen to congratulate Lynn on herperformance by giving her head a clean and shine!
Christine Peach, community fund raising manager for Woodlands Hospice, said: “Weare constantly amazed and hugely grateful for the determination and support ofpeople like Lynn in their efforts to raise money for Woodlands Hospice”.
Lynn and her family will now have an engraved leaf in Anne’s memory on the ‘Treeof Life’ in the new look reception at Woodlands Hospice. Woodlands Hospice ‘Tree ofLife’ gives recognition for people’s fundraising efforts and donations includingdonations in memory of loved ones, by dedicating ‘leaves’ to individuals or groups.
Those who fundraise or donate a minimum of £1,000 in any one year are invited tohave a brass leaf engraved and placed on the tree in the hospice reception.
The continuous growth of ‘leaves’ on the Tree of Life each with its own specialmessage reflects the popularity of this very special initiative and the tree is a source ofgreat comfort to so many people.
JUNETUESDAY 10 JUNESUNRISE CLUB - OAK TREE CC, HALEWOOD11:00 – 13:00 Oak Tree Childrens Centre, LichfieldRoad, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1TT. This is asupport network group of parents and carers fromKnowsley who have children with a disability oradditional need, Children are invited to attend the qualitycrèche provision which runs alongside the support group.For more information call 07771 517791HOLLIES HALL INDOOR BOWLING12:00 – 15:30 Hollies Hall, Hollies Road, Halewood,L26 0TH. We run an indoor bowls activity (not 10 pin)on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. Playing on 2mats, 12 people to each mat. For ages 21+ Times 12noon-3.30/4.00pm Contact: Mrs Freda Rowlandson0151 486 4214HAPPY HOURS OVER 50'S GROUP10:00 – 12:00 Tower Hill Community Centre, EbonyWay, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 1XT. Over 50s group -Contact Wendy Ferguson 07717301444AFTER SCHOOL CLUB16:00 – 18:30 Vee’s Place, Zion Independent MethodistChurch Hall, 74 Kemble Street, Prescot, L34 5SH.After School Club for 10-16yrs olds, Games, Sport, Art,Crafts, Music, Karaoke, Workshops, Outdoor area,Volunteer work. Registration fee Youth £3. Parents needto sign consent forms. Subscriptions (per activity) £2.50includes refreshments. Registered Charity 1093064Contact: Vee Rhodes, 0151 289 3602,[email protected]
HEALTH ON WHEELS @ COURT HEY PARK11:00 – 13:30 Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley,Liverpool, Merseyside, L16 3NA. Intermediate ride -usually between 8-12 miles (with café stop). Bikes andhelmets are available to borrow on all rides, please arriveearly as limited number. For more information pleasecontact: Kevin McCann 0797 [email protected] Lou Henderson 0789399725 [email protected] YOUTH CLUB @ HALEWOOD ACADEMY18:30 – 20:30 Halewood Academy Centre ForLearning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood,Merseyside, L26 1UU. Generic youth club offeringawards, issues based projects and trips out through theschool holidays Age Range 11-19 years. Cost 50p onentrance. Contact Peter Boardman - 07766558895BACK TO NETBALL - KNOWSLEY PARK CfL20:00 – 21:00 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning,Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD. Ifyou haven't played netball for a while and want to getinvolved again, then this is the session for you. Have funand build up your fitness. £2 per session. Ages 16+. Noneed to book in advance. Contact Louise Roberts 0785409 0639 for further details..ACTING UP DISABLED DRAMA GROUP17:30 – 19:30 The Youthy, Woolfall Heath Avenue,Huyton, Merseyside, L36 3YE. A bespoke drama groupfor young people with disabilities aged 12-25. Cost £1 asession. For more information please contact KatyMcLoughlin 0151 443 5749 oremail:[email protected] GIRLS GROUP18:30 – 20:30 Westvale Community and Youth Centre,Richard Hesketh Drive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0TZ.Girls group project based at Westvale Youth Centre for11 to 19 year olds. Contact Charlotte Brookes, 0151443 4168, [email protected] TO NETBALL - STOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE18:00 – 19:00 Stockbridge Village NeighbourhoodCentre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village, Merseyside.L28 1AB. Back to Netball aims to re-introduce womenaged 16+ back to the sport after a period of not playing(perhaps you haven't played since school and want to getfit again in a fun activity). Cost £2.50. Contact: Louise0785 409 0639 - [email protected] 11 JUNEVILLAGE FARM ORCHARD - GROWING WORKSHOP13:00 – 15:00 Stockbridge Village NeighbourhoodCentre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village, Merseyside.L28 1AB. Free workshop about growing your own food..Contact 07811 957578 /[email protected] for further details.CENTRE 63 YOUTH CLUB16:30 – 20:30 Centre 63 Youth Club, Church ofEngland Youth Centre, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 5TH.The Youth club in Centre 63 is open access for all youngpeople aged 8 - 25 living in Knowsley The Youth Clubfocuses on giving Young People a safe and friendlyenvironment to come and socialise with their peers,
develop social skills, community awareness andparticipate in positive projects and activities, including achance to take part in new activities and experiences.The centre also runs the following sexual healthworkshops, drugs awareness workshops and variousmusic workshops from recording to learning to play aninstrument Monday, Wednesday, Thursday. 4.30 - 8.30open ageGUITAR CLUB18:00 – 20:00 Halewood Academy Centre for Learning,The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood, Merseyside, L261UU. Monday - Play chords (Intermediary level)Wednesday - (Beginners level) No music required. Forages 16 -100 yrs. Cost £5. Contact details: ChrisVernon, 0151 477 8830, Halewood Academy Centre forLearning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood,Merseyside, L26 1UUHEALTH ON WHEELS @ STADT MOERS PARK11:00 – 13:30 Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane,Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3RG. Intermediate /progression / advanced ride - usually between 8-16miles (with café stop). Bikes and helmets are available toborrow on all rides, please arrive early as limited number.For more information please contact: Kevin McCann0797 1476520 [email protected] LouHenderson 0789 399725 [email protected] COACHING SESSION BY EVERTON IN THECOMMUNITY17:45 – 18:45 Tower Hill Community Centre, EbonyWay, Kirkby, Merseyside, L33 1XT. Football coaching -no cost. Organised by Merseyside Fire Service. Agerange - Under 12's Contact Joe Fogg 0151 443 4166,[email protected] DANCE GROUP17:30 – 20:30 St Edmund Arrowsmith Centre forLearning, Whiston, Merseyside, L35 2XG. WIKEDDance group age 4 plus for infants, juniors and olderchildren- teaching a wide range of dance moves, skillsand techniques with fully qualified coaches. 5.30-6.30pm infant, 5.30-7.00pm junior, 7.00-8.30pm olderContact: 07954134599 or Chris Royle 07500765197 ZUMBA CLASS18:30 – 20:00 Halewood Youth in Community Centre,Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Zumba Class -cost £3.00 Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865,Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road,Halewood, L26 1TT LINE DANCING10:00 – 11:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being,Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A funway to keep fit and active, suitable for all ages andabilities. Price: £3 Contact Rebound Dance & Health,0151 489 4616 / http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ THURSDAY 12 JUNEYOUTH CLUB FOR AGE 12+18:30 – 21:30 Halewood Youth in Community Centre,Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Youth Club for age12+ - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 6.30pm to 9.30pm- cost 50p Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 486 2865,Halewood Youth in Community Centre, Lichfield Road,Halewood, L26 1TT TOP TOTS STAY AND PLAY SESSION09:30 – 11:00 Phoenix Children’s Centre, Bryer Road,Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5DN. Fun filled session whereyou and your child can meet others and engage in qualityplay. For more details contact: Kelly Wallace, 0151 4434531, [email protected] ON WHEELS @ SOUTHDENE COMMUNITY CENTRE11:00 – 12:00 Southdene Community Centre, BroadLane, Kirkby, L32 9PQ. Beginner / GP referral ride -ride stays within confines of the park. Bikes and helmetsare available to borrow on all rides, please arrive early aslimited number. For more information please contact:Kevin McCann 0797 [email protected] Lou Henderson 0789399725 lou.henderson@ cycling.org.ukSTREETWISE - MASTER D. JONES19:00 – 20:30 Kirkby Leisure Centre, CherryfieldDrive, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 8SA. Korean martial artfor self defence and Olympic sport. Ages 4+ Mastergrade instruction - 5th Dan Master Grade. RegisteredB.T.C.B. Recognised by International OlympicCommittee (I.O.C) Contact: 0751 5386593MARTIAL FITNESS CLASS19:00 – 20:00 Knowsley Park Centrefor Learning, Knowsley ParkLane, Prescot,Merseyside, L343LD. A fun, stressbusting exercise classcombining aerobics,circuits, cardio work andstrength training. £2 persession. Ages 16+. £2 persession. No need to book inadvance. Contact PeterGreen 4435648/[email protected] SEWING CAFE 10:00 – 12:00 Stockbridge Village NeighbourhoodCentre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village, Merseyside,L28 1SU. Take part in FREE workshops & activities tolearn how to sew, knit, rag rug, crochet & patchwork. Allmaterials are supplied for free and everyone is welcome.
Organised by Stockbridge Community IntergenerationProject. For further information please contact: MargaretO'Sullivan, [email protected] - 07926473711FRIDAY 13 JUNEWHEELS FOR ALL @ HALEWOOD PARK10:00 – 15:00 Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood,Merseyside L26 7XB, United Kingdom. Using adaptedcycles to make cycling accessible to everyone. Sessionsusually last between 30 minutes - 1 hour. No requireddistance, Also ideal for beginners and health referrals.Bikes and helmets are available to borrow on all rides,please arrive early as limited number. For moreinformation please contact: Kevin McCann 07971476520 [email protected] Lou Henderson0789 399725 lou.henderson@ cycling.org.uk
SKIPTRIX CLASS19:00 – 20:00 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning,Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD.An incredible new skipping exercise class for all abilities,whether you're an athlete or a novice to fitness. Skiptrixhas it's own circuit and skills classes. Ages 16+. £3 persession. No need to book in advance. Contact: MarkBissell 07775436709 for further details.HAPPY HOURS - ZUMBA11:30 – 12:30 Northwood Community Centre,Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood. Kirkby, Merseyside, L339TW. Adapted ZUMBA for over 55s. Tea/Coffee. £1.50per session. Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717 301 444THE FRIDAY NITE PROJECT18:30 – 21:30 Copthorne Adventure Playground,Copthorne Walk, Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0RP. Jus Kidzyouth club ‘The Friday Nite Project’, is based atCopthorne Adventure Playground and is for youngpeople with disabilities, their siblings and friends fromage 11. This runs from 6.30pm-9.30pm for 50 Fridayevenings of the year, cost £2.00 subs per week. CALL OF DANCE16:30 – 18:30 Call of Dance, Swanside CommunityCentre, Willoughby Road, Huyton, Merseyside, L146XA. Street Dance class run Fridays 4.30pm - 6.30pmat Swanside Community Centre. Ages form 11+. Costper session is £4. Pupils are entered into shows whenthey are held. Contact: Kimberley 07902107586,[email protected] INDOOR SHORT MAT CARPET BOWLS13:30 – 14:30 Northwood Community Centre,Gilescroft Avenue, Northwood, Kirkby, Merseyside, L339TW. Short mat indoor bowls for ever 55s. Tea/Coffee£1.50 per session. Contact: Wendy Ferguson 07717301 444SATURDAY 14 JUNEBLESS 'EM ALL!16:00 – 18:00 Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park,Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. Fromthe producers of We'll Meet Again, Duggie ChapmanAssociates proudly presents a brand new WartimeCavalcade - Bless 'em all to Knowsley Leisure andCulture Park in June 2014. Starring Comedy EntertainerSteve Barclay, by special request a return of Britain’sgreatest virtuoso of the ukelele Andy Eastwood, and newsinging star Lucia Mattess.BUSHCRAFT13:00 – 17:00 Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot,Merseyside L34 4AN. Bushcraft - learn fire lighting,shelter building, animal tracking and more Suitable forfamilies, young people and adults. Half and full daysavailable. Groups and individuals. Cost U16 £15.00 4hour session, Over 16 £25.00 4 hour session. Specialrates for families and groups. Minimum age for
unaccompanied young people is 8 Years of age.Contact Komaru Outdoors [email protected] Tel 07729 295923WESTVALE YOUTH CLUB18:45 – 20:45 Westvale Community andYouth Centre, Richard Hesketh Drive,Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 0TZ. YouthClub activity for 11 to 19 years Contact:Charlotte Brooks, 0151 443 4466,
Coaching/playing Badminton for juniors 9-16 yearsold. Open to all interested parties, beginners,intermediate and advanced players. Coached byBadminton England qualified coaches. Competitive andsocial - Liverpool League Junior Badminton League andTournaments. All equipment provided. Suitable clothingrequired i.e. trainers, joggers, etc. Cost £1 at desk and£1 organisers For more details please contact the leisurecentre or Jean Dean 0151 280 8595/[email protected]
THE SAFARI KIDS CLUB12:00 – 15:00 Stockbridge Village NeighbourhoodCentre, The Withens, Stockbridge Village, Merseyside,L28 1AB. Priced at £2 per child (discounts for families)and parents get in for FREE. Activities and fun forchildren up to 12yrs. Giant Bouncy Castle, Multi Sports,Arts and Crafts, Community Café, Monthly Movie Club,Cookery and so much more. Don’t forget to bring yourleisure pass! Organised by the Stockbridge CommunityIntergeneration Project, for further details please contactMargaret O’Sullivan, [email protected] -07926473711THE ARCH - THinK CLINIC13:00 – 15:00 The Arch, 2 Ellison Drive, Huyton,Merseyside, L36 9GA. 12 to 20 years sexual healthservice. Contact: 0151 296 7936SUNDAY 15 JUNETRACKING10:00 – 16:00 Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot,Merseyside L34 4AN. Learn the skills to track animalsand people. Our one day workshop is a greatintroduction to all the skills needed to track successfully.It's great fun for everybody. Tracking sessions veryinteractive and great for groups and families. £25.00U16, £45.00 for adults. Contact: Komaru [email protected] or Tel 07729295923www.komaru.co.ukMONDAY 16 JUNEHALEWOOD THinK CLINIC15:00 – 18:00 The Halewood Centre, Roseheath Drive,Halewood, Merseyside, L26 9UH. 12 to 20 years sexualhealth service. Contact: 0151 296 7936FLAMES CHAIR EXERCISE AND SOCIAL GROUP12:00 – 14:00 Centre 63 Youth Club, Church ofEngland Youth Centre, Old Hall Lane, Kirkby,Merseyside, L32 5TH. Chair Exercise. Social Activities.Tea/Coffee £1 Subs per week £1 raffle. Contact: WendyFerguson 07717 301 444WEEKLY FOOTBALL COACHING 17:00 – 18:00 Prescot Soccer Centre, WarringtonRoad, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5AD. Weekly footballcoaching sessions. Fully qualified football coaches trainedto Level 2 & 3 standard. Football coaching for 5 -11years, cost £3 per child - suitable footwear andclothing required as all football coaching will beoutdoors. Contact: Barry Lloyd 07825145105 or 0151443 5715, [email protected] 50'S10:00 – 11:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being,Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A funlow impact class for anyone ages 50+ Price: £3 ContactRebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 /http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ BEGINNERS RUNNING SESSIONS17:30 – 18:30 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning,Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD.Want to build up your fitness at an easy pace? Thencome along to our FREE group sessions. No need tobook in advance. Ages 14+ Contact Peter Green 4435648/[email protected] for further details TUESDAY 17 JUNEPARENT & TODDLER SESSIONS13:00 – 15:00 Halewood Youth in Community Centre,Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. Parent & ToddlerSessions - cost 50p Contact: Mark Nelson, 0151 4862865, Halewood Youth in Community Centre, LichfieldRoad, Halewood, L26 1TT ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - MOVING UP, GROWINGON!10:00 – 16:00 National Wildflower Centre, Court HeyPark, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, Merseyside, L163NA. Cost - £95 RHS Campaign for School GardeningThis course will give teachers of pupils with SpecialEducational Needs the knowledge and skills to usegardening as a tool to raise pupils’ confidence, self-esteem and achievement. This popular day course isbased on three years of RHS research in SEN schools.
ONE NOT TO MISS
ON NOW LOCAL HEROES, DISTANT VOICES9.15am - 5pm Monday and Friday, 9.15am -7pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,10am - 1pm Wednesday and Saturday. Comealong to mark 100 years since the start of theFirst World War. Displays include soldiers'photographs, documents, medals and personaleffects. Call 0151 443 5617 for moreinformation.
June 2014 11
HALEWOOD YOUTH THEATRE18:30 – 20:30 Halewood Academy Centre for Learning,The Avenue, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU.Halewood Youth Theatre is an inclusive youth theatre,producing challenging, exciting work in collaborationwith other youth theatre groups in the area. The group isfor anyone aged 12 - 21. No experience necessary - justthe desire to get involved, have fun, work hard and becreative! The group are busy creating a newperformance, which will be showcased in Knowsley inthe summer. Session costs £1 per week. Contact Altrufor more information - [email protected] 0151 4430333LONGVIEW KNITWITS13:00 – 16:00 Longview Shops, Huyton, Merseyside,L36 6DY. Would you like to invite you to join them toknit and crochet items for the neo-natal unit of theLiverpool Women’s Hospital. For further information orto donate wool, please contact: Mary 07845 419766WEDNESDAY 18 JUNELITTLE MOVERS16:00 – 17:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being,Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A fundance class for ages 4-7yrs. Price: £3 Contact ReboundDance & Health, 0151 489 4616 /http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ YOUTH CLUB @ BRYER ROAD18:30 – 20:30 Bryer Road Awards session, Bryer RoadCommunity Centre, Prescot, Merseyside, L35 5DW.Generic youth club offering awards, issues basedprojects and trips out through the school holidays AgeRange 11-19 years. Cost 50p on entrance. ContactPeter Boardman - 07766558895KIRKBY YOUTH THEATRE18:30 – 20:30 Kirkby High School, Bracknell Avenue,Kirkby, Merseyside, L32 9PP. Kirkby Youth Theatre isan inclusive youth theatre, producing challenging, excitingwork in collaboration with other youth theatre groups inthe area. The group is for anyone aged 12 - 21. Noexperience necessary - just the desire to get involved,have fun, work hard and be creative! The group arecurrently working on a performance about healthmatters. They will be welcoming new members again inApril. Session costs £1 per week. Contact Altru for moreinformation - [email protected] 0151 443 0333THURSDAY 19 JUNEPEDAL AWAY COMMUNITY RIDE @ COURT HEY PARK18:00 – 20:00 Court Hey Park, Roby Road, Knowsley,Liverpool, Merseyside, L16 3NA. Beginner /Intermediate ride - usually between 6-8 miles. (beginningApril 2014 - summer only) Bikes and helmets areavailable to borrow on all rides, please arrive early aslimited number. For more information please contact:Kevin McCann 0797 [email protected] Lou Henderson 0789399725 [email protected]
FUTSAL COACHING19:00 – 20:00 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning,Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD.An exciting indoor football sessions taken by FA licensedcoaches. £2 per session. Ages 13-16. No need to bookin advance. Contact Peter Green 4435648/[email protected] 20 JUNEHALEWOOD YOUTH ZONE18:30 – 21:30 Halewood Academy Centre ForLearning, The Avenue, Wood Road, Halewood,Merseyside, L26 1UU. Offering awards work, boxercise,football, badminton. Age Range 11-19 years. Cost 50pon entrance. Contact Peter Boardman - 07766558895OUR PLACE THinK CLINIC15:00 – 18:00 Our Place, Longview Lane, Huyton,Merseyside, L36 3YE. 12 to 20 years sexual healthservice. Contact: 0151 296 7936SATURDAY 21 JUNESKY RIDE - THE LIVERPOOL LOOP LINE - BIKE WEEK10:00 – 12:30 Halewood Environment Centre,Halewood Park, Okell Drive, Halewood, L26 0TH.Cycling time - 150 minutes Ride distance - 19 milesSuitable for Women only Guided Ride Cost - Free Visitthe website http://www.goskyride.com/, Find a Ridesection, to see more details and to book on the ride.MIDSUMMER BBQ18:00 – 21:30 National Wildflower Centre, Court HeyPark, Roby Road, Knowsley, Liverpool, Merseyside, L163NA. Cost: £10 Adult / £5 Child (under12) BOOKINGESSENTIAL Join us this Midsummer's eve at theNational Wildflower Centre. Our Cornflower Café will behosting a BBQ to celebrate the Summer Solstice. Formore information please call 0151 738 1913 or [email protected] JUNIORS10:30 – 12:00 Halewood Juniors, Arncliffe Sports &Community Centre, Halewood, Merseyside, L25 9PA.
We encourage young people to play football and netballfrom an early age, train and develop players to completein teams. We have 11 football teams, Under 7’s throughto Under 16’s. 1 adult netball team. Beginners’ sessionseach Saturday 10.30 – 12.00. £1 per child per sessionfootball coaching. Young people may be invited to join afootball team to gain more experience and become amember of Halewood town juniors Children must be ontime for training and match games. Parents must be ontime to collect children after training and games. Ourchild protection policy/parents guidelines are available.Contact: Joe McGuinness 07572108735,[email protected]
SUNDAY 22 JUNESKY RIDE - THE GRAND TOUR OF STADT MOERS PARK10:00 – 10:45 Stadt Moers Park, Pottery Lane,Whiston, Merseyside, L35 3RG. Cycling time -45minutes Ride distance - 3 miles Suitable for AnyoneGuided Ride Cost - Free Visit the websitehttp://www.goskyride.com/, Find a Ride section, to seemore details and to book on the ride.MONDAY 23 JUNEHALEWOOD TAE KWON-DO CLUB - LADIES ONLY19:00 – 20:00 Halewood Academy, The Avenue, WoodRoad, Halewood, Merseyside, L26 1UU. Tae Kwon Dofor ages 4 up. Cost £3.50 for 1 hour session, £5 for 2hours. Monday, Wednesday and Friday Junior Beginners6-7pm Junior Advanced 7-8pm Seniors 8-9pm Mondays& Wednesdays: Ladies Only 7-8pm Sundays: Allstudents, fitness and sparring - 1-3pm. LICKERS LANE YOUTH CLUB18:00 – 21:00 Lickers Lane Youth Club, GeorgeHoward Centre, Lickers Lane, Whiston, Merseyside,L35 3SR. Generic youth club offering awards, issuesbased projects and trips out through the school holidaysAge Range 11-19 years. Cost 50p on entrance. ContactPeter Boardman - 07766558895ACE YOUTH CLUB18:15 – 20:45 Ace Youth Club, StockbridgeNeighbourhood Centre, The Withens, StockbridgeVillage, Merseyside. L28 1AB. Generic Youth Cluboffering awards, issue based projects and trips outthrough the school holidays. Young people supported todesign their own programmes e.g. residentials, arts,crafts, sports, computer suite, accreditations plus muchmore. Cost 50p on entrance Contact Rose Spellacy07810054134 or email: [email protected] VILLAGE YOUTH CLUB18:30 – 20:30 Knowsley Village Youth Club, KnowsleyLane, Knowsley Village, Merseyside, L34 0BB. Genericyouth club offering awards, issues based projects andtrips out through the school holidays Age Range 11-19years. Cost 50p on entrance. Contact Peter Boardman -07766 558895TUESDAY 24 JUNESTARDUST MORRIS DANCERS19:00 – 21:00. St Mary’s Catholic Club, KennelwoodAvenue, Northwood, Kirkby, L33 6UF. Morris Dancinggroup. We practise on Tuesdays 7-9pm at St Mary'sCatholic Club, Kennelwood Avenue, Northwood, Kirkby,L33 6UF On Friday's 6-8pm at St Andrew's ChurchTower Hill, Highfield, Northwood, Kirkby, L33 1XP andtake part in competitions on Sundays. All ages welcome,subs are £3 a week. Contact: Sharon 07724 758633 GIRLS FOOTBALL COACHING13:00 – 16:00 Knowsley Park Centre for Learning,Knowsley Park Lane, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 3LD.Indoor football coaching and games for girls aged 13-16.£2 per session. No need to book in advance. ContactPeter Green 443 5648/[email protected] forfurther detailsWEDNESDAY 25 JUNEJUNIOR ARTISTS CLUB16:00 – 17:45 The Environment Centre, Okell Drive,Halewood, Merseyside, L26 7XB. Junior Artists Club(JAC) is for all children with interest in any arts & craftsbased activities. Painting, drawing, drama games,sculpture, writing, etc. Every week is different. Manysessions relate to environment, nature, or local interests.Age: 7-11 years Cost: £2 to cover snacks and materials.Contact Carole Trenaman at [email protected] call into Environment Centre Wednesday afternoons.STREET DANCE CLASS17:00 – 18:00 Rebound - Dance, Fitness & Well Being,Huyton Gateway, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 9TE. A classthat’s fast and funky for ages 10yrs and over Price: £3Contact Rebound Dance & Health, 0151 489 4616 /http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/THURSDAY 26 JUNEAFTER SCHOOL PLAY CLUB - TERM TIME15:30 – 17:45 Halewood Youth in Community Centre,Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT. For ages 4-11Cost £1 plus 70p for a snack. Contact: Mark Nelson,0151 486 2865, Halewood Youth in CommunityCentre, Lichfield Road, Halewood, L26 1TT
YOGA18:00 – 19:00 Rebound -Dance, Fitness & Well Being,Huyton Gateway, Huyton,Merseyside, L36 9TE. A gentle,relaxing class for any age to reducestress, improve posture, sleep andflexibility. Price: £3 Contact ReboundDance & Health, 0151 489 4616 /http://www.reboundcic.co.uk/classes/ SATURDAY 28 JUNEGYMNASTICS WITH M & H ACADEMY LTD09:00 – 13:00 Christ The KingCentre for Learning, Stockbridge Lane,Huyton, Merseyside, L36 5SD. Gymnastics Club forAges 4 - 19 Year Olds Beginners Class 9am - 11am £ 5per session Advanced Class 10:15 - 1pm £5 per sessionPlease Contact: Joe Morgan 07804939442 or EddieHussin 07763021984 for further details. Organisation:M &H Academy Ltd., 69 Longview Drive, Huyton,Merseyside, L36 6EA [email protected] www.mandhacademy.comMINI KICKERS FOOTBALL COACHING09:00 – 10:00 Christ The King Centre for Learning,Stockbridge Lane, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 5SD.Football Coaching for 2 - 7 Year Olds 9am - 10 amEvery Saturday morning £4 per session Please Contact:Joe Morgan 07804939442 or Eddie Hussin07763021984 for further details. Organisation: M &HAcademy Ltd., 69 Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside,L36 6EA [email protected] -www.mandhacademy.comSUPERSATURDAYS10:00 – 13:00 Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park,Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG.Children and young people will meet every Saturday toparticipate in fun creative activities. They can exploreother art forms too such as story telling, imaginary play,music and movement, cookery and messy play. Theseworkshops are an exciting opportunity for disabledchildren and young people to enjoy creative engagementwhilst having fun, meeting new friends and showcasingtheir talents to others. Cost £2 a session For moreinformation please contact Katy McLoughlin 0151 4435749 or email:[email protected] SUNDAY 29 JUNE SKY RIDE - A BOLD DAY OUT10:00 – 12:30 Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park,Longview Drive, Huyton, Merseyside, L36 6EG. Cyclingtime - 150 minutes Ride distance - 30 miles Suitable forages 11+ (children 11-15 need to be accompanied byadults) Guided Ride Cost - Free Visit the websitehttp://www.goskyride.com/, Find a Ride section, to seemore details and to book on the ride.
MONDAY 30 JUNEHALEWOOD THinK CLINIC15:00 – 18:00 The HalewoodCentre, Roseheath Drive,Halewood, Merseyside, L269UH. 12 to 20 years sexualhealth service. Contact:0151 296 7936
KIRKBY THinKCLINIC
15:00 –18:00Kirkby
HealthSuite,
Cherryfield Drive, Kirkby,Merseyside, L32 9PA. 12 to
20 years sexual health service. Contact Jason Cole,0151 443 4168, [email protected] JU-JITSU19:30 – 21:00 Bugei-Ki-Ryu Ju-Jitsu, St EdmundArrowsmith Centre for Learning, Whiston, Merseyside,L35 2XG. DescriptionChildren & Adult Classes, Ages6+. Monday and Thursday evenings. 6.30pm-7.30pmJunior, £4.50 7.30pm-8.30pm Senior. £6.00 Contact:Lynn 07525936620 or Chris Royle 07500 765197
Nordic walking sessions, Court Hey ParkThursday evenings, 6pm startSaturday mornings, 10am startAll sessions are free and open to all.Training and Nordic Walking polesprovided, no need to book. Meet at thegates to the National WildflowerCentre.
Nordic walking sessions, HalewoodTriangle Country Park.Walks start Wednesday 25 June, 6pmstart.Sat 28 June 1pm start, and continuesfor 6 weeks.All sessions are free and open to all.Training and Nordic Walking polesprovided, no need to book. Meet at thegates to the National WildflowerCentre. Further info at www.nwc.org.uk
12 June 2014
June 2014 13
NEW RECORDING STUDIOSAT COMMUNITY COLLEGEKnowsley Community College
have shown their commitment
to their music students by
investing over £60,00 in a new
recording studio.
The new state of the art facilitywill allowed students to not onlyrecord their music, but also torecord their own videos in themedia suite.
Music lecture, GordonPemberton, said: “The studio wasopened by Liverpool band, Spacewho were very impressed at thefacilities. It is probably one of thebest if not the best recordingstudio in the Merseyside area.
“The studio is also a brilliantteaching tool for the students, wehave a range of instruments thestudents can try out.”
Knowsley College student,Dominic Shields and singer withthe band ‘Hometown’ said: “Theequipment is brilliant, it hashelped us as a band ten-fold.
“It has also helped us when weentered a national competition -The UK School Jam, which is abattle of the bands for collegestudents.
“We travelled down to Londonto perform and we had great
feedback. We took 50 CDs downwith us and returned with only ten.
“I would say it was through ourexperience at the recordingstudios at the college we gaineda lot of knowledge andexperience.”
The college is also hoping toset up its own record label inSeptember.
Gordon Pemberton said: “It isone way of utilising the equipmentwe have in letting bands gainexperience not only in therecording studio but also will
hopefully give them a head startin the music business”.
The college will be holding a
charity gig at Eric’s on Mathew
Street, Liverpool on Saturday 14
June at 1.00pm.
The gig is in aid of the charity
‘Make a Difference’ which is
based in Danny Turners Church
(Prescot Community Church)
which helps orphanages in
Ukraine.
The event is organised by the
extended diploma group who
also chose the charity.
The Last of theRed Hot Lovers Neil Simon's hilarious award winning comedy The Last ofthe Red Hot Lovers, comes to the Theatre Royal, StHelens for a four day run from Wednesday 11 - Saturday14 June.
Directed by Sylvie Gatril and still sizzling from the success ofBouncers the Remix, this ambitious production follows the extramarital adventures of Luckless Barney Cashman as he joins thesexual revolution.
Regal Entertainments have added a unique twist to the play,this now two-hand, will include performances from theextremely talented and versatile Steven Pinder as Barney andDebra Stephenson in not one but three roles.
This story of self-discovery will have audiences in stitcheswith its brilliant comedic characters and side-splitting script.The Last of the Red Hot Lovers is Theatre Royal’s must seeshow, and is sure to guarantee a saucy but hilarious start toyour summer.
Debra Stephenson
and Steven Pinder
14 June 2014
June 2014 15
Education
ST JOHN BOSCO MARKSMOVE WITH MISSION WEEKSt John Bosco Arts College is celebrating its move to a brand new building by
holding a three-day Mission Week event this July.
The school is moving to the new building, which is based on the same site as thecurrent school at Storrington Avenue in Croxteth, in September.
The Rainbow of Hope event, which will take place 7-9 July, will feature a number ofactivities including a talk by Mr and Mrs Mizen, the parents of London-school boyJimmy Mizen who was tragically murdered in 2008. The couple will be discussing theissues of courage and forgiveness.
There will also be a Deaf Awareness presentation by Nugent Care including signlanguage to music sessions and a performance by Christian rap artists Vital Signs.
Throughout the week the school will be joined by The Salesian Youth Ministry andCafod who will run a variety of activities.
Anne Pontifex, headteacher, says: “We are very excited to be moving to our fantasticnew school building this September but the move is tinged with sadness as we havehad many wonderful years here and have lots of happy memories.
“This Mission Week, with its theme of building a bridge from one building to anotherin the form of a rainbow of hope, is the perfect way to mark the occasion.”
For more information on the school and the new building call 0151 235 1620.
Formula 1 winnersPupils from St Laurence’s Primary School, Kirkby have been testing their
mental ability and having fun at the Formula 1 Project in Halewood.
The Formula 1Project is acompetition andseries ofworkshopsorganised byJaguar in whichprimary schoolsbuild Formula 1cars fromdifferentmaterials.
Headteacher,Paul Cronin, said:“Over sevenweeks, ourchildren have been designing and testing their very own competition cars. Theytested their cars speed and aerodynamics by using everyday appliances likehairdryers and fan’s.
“Our children visited the IAC components factory in Halewood where theywere given lots of helpful information and tips of how to improve their cars, aswell as a tour around the factory.
“During the project, the children have made a portfolio of their work as well ascreating a pit wall, detailing each team member’s job and responsibilities in theproject.
“As well as coming first in both the verbal presentation and the fastest car, ourchildren were crowned overall winners in the regions final; as a result, they willbe representing Merseyside in the grand final in Coventry on June 24th.
Tel: 0151 208 9500 M: 07449 488860
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16 June 2014
Outdoors withThe Hairy Gardener
Hi, my name is Peter Frances a.k.a. the Hairygardener
Garden Centres, do you love themor hate them?
We gardeners even if we don’tbuy all our seeds, compost etc atthe garden centre like to have awander around looking at what’snew, maybe pick up a bargain. Ilike to pick up the waifs and straysof the plant world, you know theplant that’s covered in moss,deserves a second chance and ifyou know a trick or two like a hardprune, a repot or even a feed can result in a bargain.
So how do you shop in a garden centre?Well the modern garden centres are masters of the hard sell. Before you
know it your basket has a six-pack of marigolds, some houseplants in it andyou are in need of a mug of tea and a strawberry tart and you were only goingto buy plant labels.
So go in prepared make a list, if you want plants for a certain aspect ofyour garden and are unsure which to buy ask for advice and if they can’t tellyou go elsewhere as they don’t know their plants.
If there is no one around, pick the plant up and assess how heavy it feels,one that hasn’t been watered recently will feel light. If the plant comes out ofthe pot immediately it is dangerously dry so leave it where it is.
Have a look to see if there are any roots coming out the bottom of the pot.A few tender white roots showing means the plant is thriving and growing wellbut a knot of thick roots means the plant is pot bound and maybe checked ingrowth.
Another sign is a thick layer of liverworts or moss growing on the surface ofthe medium the plant is growing in. These don’t harm the plant but shows theplant has been unloved and neglected. Look for healthy plants with a goodgreen to its leaves, growth buds, little die-back and no diseased material.
Do not buy plants in flower because all its energy is going into reproductionand to be transplanted when the plant is producing nectar is hard work.
Be wise and choose plants either not in bud or that have just finishedflowering. BUT if the only option is a plant in flower be prepared to water often
as plants don’t send out new feeder roots while blooming so it will take longer to settle into a new home.
Until next time Good Gardening
Resident feedback helps todrive local NHS changes
Knowsley Clinical Commissioning Group(CCG) is encouraging all local patients tobecome more actively involved in theirGP practice to help shape changes to theway that healthcare is delivered locally.
Over the past year, patients and carers havebecome more involved and at the heart of theNHS in Knowsley than ever before - playing amore active role in driving up the quality andenhancement of services in their GP practices.
Each GP practice has a PatientParticipation Group (PPG), which meetsregularly to provide patients and carers withincreased opportunities (over and above theannual patient survey) to provide feedbackand make suggestions on how improvementscould be made to the way that GP servicesare provided.
Andrew Pryce, Chair of Knowsley clinicalcommissioning group, said: “Patientparticipation and experience is crucial to theNHS. Local people need to help us drive upimprovements in the quality and safety of theservices that we provide.
“We also need to ensure that people arefully included in all aspects of service designand change – and are empowered to have asay”.
Towerhill GP practice has one of the moreactive PPGs. They use social media and textmessaging platforms to encourage two-way
communication between patients, carers andtheir practice staff.
The PPG also hold regular meetings todiscuss healthcare issues and undertakesurveys to inform improvements to thepractice.
One of the surveys that the PPG hasundertaken has helped to significantly reducethe number of patients who do not turn up toappointments.
Other local PPGs have brought about othersignificant changes including theimplementation of a public crossing outside ofthe practice, and the removal of glasswindows between the receptionists and thepatients to create a more friendly atmosphere.
Young people and patients who work fulltime are particularly encouraged to becomeinvolved in their local PPG, to ensure that thethoughts and views of the PPG are asrepresentative of the whole local population aspossible.
Helen Barker, chair of Towerhill PPG, said:“I would encourage anyone who feels thatthey can be involved in their local PPG to doso. It is very rewarding knowing that you havehelped to improve local healthcare services foryour friends and neighbours.”
Anyone wishing to become a PPG membershould contact their local GP practice formore information.
The Towerhill PPG
St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust want to hear the views of
patients who received treatment at Whiston Hospital’s Accident and Emergency
Department.
Patients have been sent a survey including questions about their experience andasking for feedback on how the service can be further improved.
The national survey has been sent to 850 adult patients who have attended thedepartment.
Ann Marr, chief executive, said: “I would urge everyone who has received a survey totell us about their experience as a patient. Feedback from patients is vital for helpingto further improve the high standards of care provided at the accident and emergencydepartment.”
Patients are urged to complete and return the survey in the pre-paid envelopeprovided.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is leading the NHS national patient surveyprogramme aiming to assess and monitor patients’ experience and to providefeedback which can be used locally to improve quality, keeping patients at the centreof health services.
The survey is run by an independent co-ordination centre on behalf of the CQC;therefore the feedback remains anonymous to the Trust.
STREET LIGHTING WORKIN NORTH HUYTONKnowsley residents living in North
Huyton are invited to attend a public
consultation event on Thursday 12
June to find out more about the next
phase of the borough’s multi-million
pound street lighting programme.
Knowsley Council is working with TayValley Lighting (TVL) to carry out therevamp of the borough’s street lighting.
The next phase of the project will seework starting in the Stockbridge area inAugust and the Page Moss area at thebeginning of November.
Members of the two communities areinvited to attend the consultation eventbeing held on Thursday 12 June at theRiver Alt Resource Centre, Woolfall HeathAvenue, Huyton, L36 3YE, at 6.15pm.
Representatives from both KnowsleyCouncil and TVL will be on-hand to
answer any questions residents mayhave regarding the work that will betaking place.
The event will begin with apresentation outlining the street lightingscheme, along with details of thetimescales and benefits it will bring tothe area. This will last for around 15minutes and will be followed by anopportunity for residents to askquestions.
The four-year street lighting project willreplace the majority of the borough’sstreet lighting, traffic signs and bollardswith the latest, energy efficienttechnology.
The video which will be played at theevent, giving residents a better idea ofwhat to expect from the new lighting, isavailable to watch on You Tube.
June 2014 17
Health
SUPPORTING DEMENTIA INKNOWSLEYKnowsley Council is
supporting the Dementia
Friends campaign, launched
by Public Health England
and the Alzheimer’s Society.
The campaign aims tosupport people with dementiato continue to live safe,dignified and as far aspossible, fulfilling lives.
Daniel Clark, aged 67 fromHuyton, was diagnosed withVascular Dementia three yearsago following a stroke.
With 16 grandchildren, agedbetween 3 and 23 years, andtwo great grandchildren,Daniel has always been veryactive and always on the go.
However, in the three daysleading up to his diagnosis,Daniel found he couldn’tsleep, didn’t want to get up or
get dressed, became forgetfuland angry – all characteristicswhich were not Daniel.
He attended his GP andfollow-up assessments,including memory tests, werecarried out at home whichconfirmed he had VascularDementia.
Daniel and his wife, Cathy,receive a lot of support fromtheir family, Admiral Nurses,and the Alzheimers Society,who are always a phone callaway when support is needed.
They attend the Alzheimersbreakfast club in Prescot everytwo weeks – which the Clark’scall the “welcome cafe” –socialising, supporting oneanother, helping withfundraising ideas andactivities for the Alzheimers
Society.Mrs Clark said: “I fully support
campaigns which helps to raiseawareness about dementia – it isa silent illness and unless you areliving with someone or knowsomeone who has beendiagnosed with dementia, youwouldn’t know. Many people don’trealise Daniel is ill as there aren’tany physical signs.
“There is support available inthe borough to those who havebeen diagnosed with dementia as
well as those who are lookingafter people with dementia – myadvice is to access all of thesupport available.
“I would also recommendsigning up to become a DementiaFriend. Small things really canmake a big difference.”
To find out more about thesupport available in Knowsley,contact the Alzheimer’s SocietyKnowsley on 0151 426 4433 orvisit www.alzheimers.org.uk
Public Health England and the
Alzheimer’s Society are aiming tocreate a network of a millionDementia Friends across Englandby 2015. Dementia Friends givespeople an understanding ofdementia and the small thingsthey can do that can make adifference to people living withdementia - from helping someonefind the right bus to spreading theword about dementia.
For further information aboutDementia Friends, or to sign up,visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk
Get up and join in with Family FuturesMake Yours and Your Child’s Future a Healthy One!
Family Futures… there with you every step of the wayFor more information and advice, give the Family Futures team a call on 0151 290 4336 or visit us online
at www.5boroughspartnership.nhs.uk For more information on community services in Knowsley, which are run by 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, call the Customer Relations Team on 0151 244 3453 or 3454.
“My daughter and I really enjoyed thegroup sessions. I was able to express myconcern with other parents. It was nice toknow someone else is going through thesame as me” - Mum and child, age 9
Special points of interest:• Start the programme any time• Collect FREE gifts during group activities • Take part in family cooking sessions and
learn new skills • FREE vouchers to use in Knowsley Leisure
Centres • Collect other FREEBIES along the way to
keep the whole family following a healthy active lifestyle!
Family Futures is a FREE community-based programme for children who are above their ideal weight.
At Family futures we offer a FUN way to learn about how to achieve a healthier lifestyle for children and parents too.
What is the programme?• Designed by families for families
(especially for 4 to 16-year-olds) • Join for three months with options to
stay longer • Tailored programmes to suit everyone
individually • FUN and INTERACTIVE individual and
group sessions
What are benefits of being part ofFamily Futures?• Fitness tips for the whole family• After-school sessions to fit around
your daily routine• Make new friends along the way
Where is the programme?Huyton, Kirkby, Whiston and Halewood
How can my child get involved?You can self-refer your child or ask yourGP or school nurse.
18 June 2014
TS IRON DUKE SEA CADETSNAMED BEST IN COUNTRYTS Iron Duke Sea Cadets in Huyton,
were recently presented with the Sea
Cadet Corps highest accolade, The
Canada Trophy, after being named at
the top unit in Britain.
The presentation took place at Huytonwith Roby Sea Cadet Unit, The Park,Rydal Road, Huyton.
This was the first time that a cadetunit from Liverpool has won thisprestigious award, a great achievementfor all cadets and staff at the unitespecially if you consider that The SeaCadet Corps is a UK national youthorganisation which is open to youngpeople between the ages of 10–18years old.
The Canada Trophy is seen as thepinnacle of achievement in the corps.
The trophy was presented by theNavy League of Canada for competitionin the Sea Cadet Corps to
commemorate the first visit of CanadianSea Cadets to Great Britain in 1947.
The trophy is awarded annually to theunit, which is considered to haveattained the very highest standard of allround efficiency in the previous year.
The top unit from the six areas inBritain compete for the trophy with thewinner is judged on the results of theirunit inspection and also takes fullaccount of the units showing throughoutthe previous years.
During the presentation each cadetreceived a medal to commemoratewinning the Canada Trophy and aCanada Trophy badge to wear on theiruniform for the duration of their time inthe corps.
In a very proud night for the unit, staffand cadets showcased the unit’sachievements over the past year to avariety of distinguished guests Captain J Holloway (Captain Sea Cadet Corps) inspects the cadets on parade
Captain T Tulloch RCN (Canadian Defence Liaison Staff) presents the cadets with their
medals
Rear Admiral C J Hockley presents the Canada Trophy to the Huyton unit, accepted on
their behalf by Lieutenant Paul McKenna
Rear Admiral C. J. Hockley praises the unit
on their success Rear Admiral C J Hockley and Captain T Tulloch RCN plant a maple tree in the grounds
June 2014 19
Employers and learnerstake part in open day
North West Community Services Training Ltd held an open day recently to
promote the opening of the new site at Huyton Hey Road.
Representatives from Connexions, Knowsley Council and local employers within thesector attended the day to observe sessions taking place and discuss the optionsavailable to them. There was also the opportunity to met with learners and staff whowhere able to answer any questions they had.
NWCS offers a variety of qualifications to support employers within the communityranging from childcare, health and social care, business admin, customer services,they also promote world host training and private training programmes including,paediatric first aid, health and safety and food hygiene.
Michelle Brackenbury, lead tutor, said: “We are open 50 weeks of the year andpromote apprenticeships and traineeships as they believe employers are looking forqualifications and experience.
“We have a highly qualified and committed staff team who strongly believe ininvesting in our future generations within the workforce”.
Employers taking part in Paediatric First
Aid
Joan Furnival, Director of Learning setting
out snacks for visitors to the open day
FESTIVAL WEEKEND The sixth annual Scarecrow FestivalWeekend takes place this year at theNational Wildflower Centre, RobyRoad, Huyton on Saturday 5 andSunday 6 July.
They will be opening their doors forFREE all weekend.
Come along and say hello to thefantastic scarecrows made by localschools and community groups.
CHANGE OF VENUETHE Secret Ingredients School ofDancing have changed the venue oftheir dance classes.
Their freestyle, disco, street and jazzfor ages 4-16yrs of a Wednesday willtake place at Halewood LeisureCentre from 4pm-6pm. The schoolincludes dance exams, medal tests,regional and national competitions,regular theatre experience andsinging and dancing.
All teachers are qualified andregistered. For further details call07854 393931.
LOVE MONDAYSAre you a carer? Do you care for arelative or a friend in Knowsley?If you want to take a bit of time out,meet new people, then head over toPrescot Caring Companions group.They meet every Monday eveningfrom 7.30pm at Prescot Guild Hall, StHelens Road, Prescot, L34 6HW.
Do you want to lose weight, improveyour fitness levels or make changes toyour lifestyle?
Our expert NHS weight-loss help andadvice service is available FREE ofcharge to people of all ages who livein Knowsley or who are registeredwith a Knowsley GP.
No matter how much weight you feelyou need to lose, we’re here for youevery step of the way - helping you tomake simple but effective changesthat deliver real results.
To find out about your nearestMeasure Up class, telephone theHealthy Lifestyle Hub – part of 5
Boroughs Partnership NHS FoundationTrust - on freephone 0800 0731 202.
Kick-start your weight-losswith our FREE NHS classes
Stock image
“I’ve never felt healthier or fitter”66-year-old Ted from Kirkby“Zipping along the pool, I’d never felt healthieror fitter. I’d gone from struggling to climb thestairs to swimming 20 lengths four times aweek.
“It all started with a simple, free phone call tothe Healthy Lifestyle Hub. They got me a placeon the free 10-week Measure Up programme atSt Chads.
“I learned so much about how to get moreactive; understand food labels; plan my mealsand adjust my portion sizes. I made smallchanges to my eating habits and graduallyincreased my activity levels. The weightdropped off – 19lbs in 10 weeks. That’s nearly10 per cent of my body weight!
“My family and friends say I look so muchslimmer and fitter. It’s great for my confidence.My breathing has improved so much I’ve evenstopped snoring which my wife Pauline ispleased about!
“I can’t thank the staff at Measure Up enough.”
Celebrate Men’s Health Week (9 to 15 June 2014) by joining Measure Up
20 June 2014
Health & Fitness - with Emma Armstrong of Zest Wellness
We all know it is important to get our
five a day to make sure our body gets
enough vitamins and minerals to keep
us healthy.
Unlike all other vitamins in the diet,Vitamin D is the only vitamin which is notessential in the diet due to our body’sability to synthesise it through exposureto sunlight.
The primary role of vitamin D is toregulate calcium in the body. This is doneby vitamin D increasing the absorption ofcalcium during digestion whilst causingless calcium to be excreted in urine.
Dietary sources of vitamin D includeegg yolks, liver and oily fish however,often the majority of dietary intake is viafortified foods such as milk, cereal ormargarine.
Around 90% of the vitamin D in ourbody is formed using sunlight witharound 10% through our diet.
However, many of us are not gettingenough vitamin D.
Deficiency is especially common inpeople who do not receive adequateamounts of sunlight and in particularlyvulnerable groups of people. Typically a70-year-old will produce only around
20% of the vitamin D a 20-year-oldproduces with the same amount ofsunlight.
Therefore deficiency is particularlycommon in this age group and oftenleads to a condition called osteoporosiswhich leads to fragile bones and a highrisk of fractures.
Children who are deficient in vitamin Dmay develop rickets which causes therebones to weaken and fail to harden, it isthen common for these children todevelop bowed legs because of this. Inadults this condition is referred to asosteomalacia.
Vitamin D has also been linked toreduced risk of cancer and is used in thetreatment of psoriasis. Tips for adequate vitamin D
• Spend small amounts of time in thesunlight to help maintain vitamin Dstores and bone health.
• Aim for around 30 minutes of sunexposure to hands and face each day.
• If you believe you are not able to getenough sunlight to synthesise enoughvitamin D it is recommended you eatfortified foods when possible and tovisit your GP.
• If supplementing with vitamin D besure not to exceed the recommendeddosage as too much vitamin D can betoxic.
• Be sensible in the sun, and to avoidprolonged exposure, especially withoutsun cream!
Monday: 10-11am Nifty 50’s - a lowimpact keep fit class for anyone aged50+11.15-12.15 Yoga - an open yogaclass for all ages and abilities
Wednesday: 10-11am Line Dancing- a fun, friendly class open toeveryone
Thursday: 6-7pm Yoga - an openyoga class for all ages and abilities11am-12pm - Line Dancing
Everyone welcome - just come
along in comfortable clothing
Huyton Gateway
115 Rupert Road
0151 489 4616
Rebound is a social
enterprise, not for
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£3 per
class
Well June, we made it here quickly didn’t we? And I don’t know about youbut I’m slightly in shock about how quickly this year is passing. Halfwaythrough two thousand and fourteen, already!
This time last year I had told you about leaving school, exams left to face. To me thatseems like a million years ago.
So much has happened and changed in the course of 12 months that it’s rather odd tothink that a life defining event like that was more than a whole year ago.
When I was a child those older and wiser used to warn me “You will be old before youknow it” and “time passes in the blink of an eye.” And at 7, anything other than JacquelineWilson books seemed a lifetime away.
How little did I know! 19 is still very young but before I know it, I certainly will be adecade older. I’m determined to not let life pass me by too quickly because it’s so easy to do.
I’m all too guilty of counting down the week days, hailing the relief of a Friday night andcelebrating the lie-ins and lazy days a weekend allows.
The joy of every weekend seems to be the cost of a forgotten week and before we know itis another week, another month, another year. We are all just counting down to something;end of exams, an important birthday, a nice holiday, even just till lunchtime sometimes!
It’s great to have something to be excited about, but we shouldn’t live life in this constantwaiting bubble.
Sometimes we just have to stop. Halt ticking off the calendar days and refrain from thecountdown phone apps and just BE.
So for a just a moment, live in that moment! Take life slowly and enjoy every minute ofyour day. Stop counting down them hours and don’t be so busy making a living that youforget to make a life.
Life is to be treasured, enjoyed and celebrated. Be in your life right now, and not just anoutsider who is counting down till tomorrow... It will be July before you know it!
‘EGGCELLENT’ WORK BYST HELENS COLLEGE Homeless chickens have found
a safe sanctuary at St Helens
College after being involved in
the tragic M62 road incident.
The crash which happened inMay saw over 1,500 chickenskilled after a lorry collided with abarrier.
Hundreds of surviving chickenshave been homed, with six ofthose finding their new nest at StHelens College’s animal caredepartment after College animalcare tutors raced to the scene ofthe accident to help with therecovery.
Staff and students are ensuringtheir new additions to thedepartment are on the road torecovery by providing around theclock care.
The college’s experiencedanimal care tutors are hoping toslowly integrate the latest arrivalsto their current flock, as a newpecking order will soon beestablished.
Adam Howson, St HelensCollege’s curriculum leader inanimal care, said: “The chickensare a great addition to our currentflock. Their health is improvingdaily and have settled into thecollege well. The staff andstudents have both taken a realshine to our latest arrivals and wehope we can continue to providea safe and secure home for thechickens.”
June 2014 21
New Venue HUNTSCROSSfrom Monday 2nd June Hillfoot Pub(Private Function Room)6.30pmJan 07961 640975
Monday HuytonThe Old School House, St John’s Road6.30pmKathryn 07865 014437
HuytonSt Aidans ClubLongview Lane 5.30pm & 7.30pmMichelle 07940 181515
WednesdayDovecotSt Margaret Mary’sSocial Club (Behind Church)Pilch Lane9.30am; 4.00pm & 6.00pmJulie 449 1074
DovecotSt Luke’s Community CentrePrincess Drive9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pmMichelle 07940 181515
ThursdayWhistonGeorge Howard Centre, LickersLane, 5.00pm & 6.30pmKathryn 07865 014437
HuytonThe Royal British LegionArchway Road1.00pm & 6.00pmJoanne 254 1298
KirkbyHoly Angels Social ClubSidney Powell Avenue4pm & 6pmSue 07546 148204
DovecotSt Luke’s Community CentrePrincess Drive7.00pmSusanne 07785 459297
FridayDovecotSt Margaret Mary’s Social Club (Behind Church), Pilch Lane9.30amJulie 449 1074
SaturdayHuytonThe Huycap Centre, Rupert Road8.00am & 10.00amJoanne 254 1298
West DerbyThe Crown InnLeyfield Road, West Derby8.30am & 10.30amMarji 07739 167048
Prescot Parish Church Meeting Rooms(next to Deans House),Vicarage Place8.00am & 9.30amLynn 07739 167051
22 June 2014
Home-Start Knowsley recently hosted
the ‘Big Lunch Event’ at Northwood
Community Centre in Kirkby.
The aim of the day was to bring thelocal community together, whilstpromoting various help and supportagencies. The event was funded by the‘The Eden Project’ and was the first bigevent at the centre since Home-StartKnowsley took over the management ofthe building on 1st April 2014.
The event saw a number of agencies,outreach teams and local fundersattending including representatives fromThe Eden Project, Everton EmploymentProgramme, LHT, Community Foundationfor Merseyside, John Moores Foundation,JP Holt, Groundworks, KUC, KCVS, ICANTeam, Neighbourhood Police, MerseysideFire and Rescue (with fire engine), KirkbyArchive, Health Development Team,KMBC Recycling, Knowsley Children’s
Centres and a local bee keeper. Local residents and their families had
the opportunity to participate in variousactivities such as lantern making, zumbaclass, football skills, flower arranging andother activities that are available atNorthwood Community Centre.
The event was a huge success withapproximately 200 visitors attending onthe day.
Home-Start Knowsley is currentlyrecruiting volunteers who have a fewhours free each week to support familieswith young children.
For more information on volunteering,hiring the hall or activities and eventscoming up at Northwood CommunityCentre, please contact Home-StartKnowsley on 0151 480 3910 or [email protected].
Alternatively pop along to the centreand check out the centre’s notice board.
BIG LUNCH, BIG FUN IN KIRKBY
Young people to have ‘The Skills Show Experience’ in Liverpool City RegionAs part of the International Festival forBusiness, more than 6,000 youngpeople from across the Liverpool CityRegion will be taking part in a SkillsShow Experience on 17 and 18 June atAintree Racecourse.
Throughout the two days, young peoplewill have the opportunity to discover thedifferent types of employment opportunitiesavailable to them, take part in a range ofpractical exercises as well as gaininginvaluable careers advice by talking to key
employers.Key employers in the region have already
confirmed their attendance at the eventincluding Jaguar Land Rover, Getrag andPeel Ports.
The event will help to raise young people’scareer aspirations which will ultimatelyimpact on issues around youth unemploymentacross the Liverpool City Region.
Young people attending schools in the localauthority areas of Halton, Knowsley,Liverpool, St Helens, Sefton and Wirral have
been invited to attend The Skills Show.Richard Else, operations director at Jaguar
Land Rover Halewood and chair of theLiverpool City Region Employment and SkillsBoard, said: “The response to attend TheSkills Show has been overwhelming. Itprovides a fantastic opportunity for our youngpeople who are looking to make decisionsabout their future education, training oremployment aspirations.
“Throughout the two days, they will have aunique opportunity to speak with key
employers about the types of roles availableand the skills potential employers will belooking for, as well as having an opportunityto ‘have a go’ through simulations in a rangeof careers including logistics, life sciencesand hospitality.
“This is just one of a range of initiatives inthe region to help support young peoplemaximise training and job opportunitiesavailable to them. I am sure it will be anexciting and informative event for all whoattend.”
June 2014 23
24 June 2014
Balfour Beatty disposes ofKnowsley schools interestInternational infrastructure group Balfour Beatty has sold its interest in the 25-year£157m Knowsley Building Schools for the Future project for £42m.
Balfour Beatty replaced 10 ageing secondary schools with seven new schools in partnershipwith Knowsley Council. The stake was acquired by funds managed by Dalmore Capital.
Balfour Beatty’s interest in Knowsley was sold alongside a 50% interest in the UniversityHospital of North Durham PPP project, also to Dalmore Capital, for £55m.
The company said the proceeds from these transactions exceeded the directors’ valuationsby £44m, representing an uplift of 82%.
Balfour Beatty said the sales were part of its strategy to recycle equity invested in itsportfolio, and further demonstrate the quality of the investment portfolio and its ability togenerate value for shareholders. The proceeds will be used to invest in new and existingprojects.
Steve Marshall, executive chairman at Balfour Beatty, said: “These disposals are in line withour strategy to generate income from our infrastructure investments business throughdisposals, thereby releasing cash for future investments and delivering value for ourshareholders”.
Business
VIVARK INVESTS IN 11KNOWSLEY BUSINESSESTO BOOST ECONOMICGROWTHA networking event organised by North West facilities management
company and social enterprise, Vivark, has created growth opportunities
and project work for 11 Knowsley businesses.
Vivark, part of the First Ark Group, organised a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event inSeptember to present small Knowsley enterprises with the opportunity toundertake project work alongside the company.
Following an application process, 11 of these businesses were successfuland have recently received an induction and are now being allocated work.
Where appropriate, businesses were offered additional training, which waspaid for by Vivark and provided by Knowsley-based social enterprise, Fusion 21.
Additionally, all the companies operating in conjunction with Vivark will berequired to follow health and safety material risk assessments, which they canthen use in the future to help them secure work with other organisations.
Tony Cahill, executive director at Vivark, said: “Our social purpose means weare continually seeking opportunities to invest in the local community.
“One way in which we aim to do this is by offering project work and trainingto local businesses through initiatives such as ‘Meet the Buyer’.
“We’re looking forward to these traders working alongside our passionateteam of experienced professionals and are proud that the training we offer canbe used to secure future employment, increasing entrepreneurial activity andsupporting economic growth in Knowsley.”
One of the traders connecting with Vivark, David Gibson, of Gibson HomeImprovement, said: “The opportunity to link with the Vivark team by assistingwith their facilities management work appealed to me because I knew I’d beworking alongside a firm with a great reputation on a wide range of jobs.
“The extra income is a great boost to my existing contracts and gives me achance to further grow my business, which at four years old, is still in itsinfancy.”
The first 11 companies to start work with Vivark comprise a mix of builders,decorators, gas technicians, joiners and plasterers, including, A&M Building andMaintenance, Blue Flame Gas Tech, Coult Decorators, CSJ Joinery, GibsonHome Improvement, JK Plastering, JPL Building Services, MC Plastering, MJHDecorators, Michael Foott and Richards and Son Plumbing and Heating.
To find out more about Vivark, please visit www.vivark.co.uk or call 0151
290 7888.
International Festival forBusiness comes to KnowsleyAt a unique event as part of IFB2014,Keith Hanshaw, executive director andmaster craftsman at Leather SatchelCompany, will tell the story of thecompany’s success.
The Leather Satchel Company is a familyowned business established in 1966. It is agroup of British master craftsmen who createsatchels based on the traditional Oxford andCambridge school style.
The company has grown from a street stallto exporting most of its products outside ofthe UK. It has collaborated with Frenchfashion empire Hermes, Italian fashion houseArmani and its products have featured inVogue and GQ.
Based in Huyton, Knowsley, the company isnow preparing to expand to meet increaseddemand with support from Knowsley Counciland ERDF funding and UKTI.
“I’m looking forward to telling our story”,said Keith from Leather Satchel Company,“We are receiving great help from KnowsleyCouncil. The ERDF support and the otherfunding will help us with our expansion plans.By sharing our story, I hope it will highlightthe support that is available to localbusinesses and will inspire them to takeadvantage of this.”
Cllr Dave Lonergan, Knowsley’s cabinetmember for regeneration, economy and skillssaid: “IFB2014 offers fantastic opportunitiesfor businesses in Knowsley and the widerCity Region. In Knowsley, we’re helping ourbusiness community to make the most ofthese opportunities and this event is just oneof the ways we’re doing this.
“I would encourage everyone to comealong to find out more about the support thatis available to help their companies becomemore successful.”
The breakfast conference will showcase thegrowth of a number of local businesses andwill bring together key business services fromacross the North West.
Delegates will have the opportunity to takepart in workshops and speak to expertbusiness advisors, plus the chance to networkwith other business contacts and agencies.
The Grow Your Business event takes placeon Thursday 26 June, 8am – 10.30am atKnowsley Hall, Grand Marquee.
You can book your FREE place now. Call0151 477 4000 or [email protected] include;Merseyside Business Support ProgrammeKnowsley CouncilUKTINorth West FundManufacturing Advisory ServiceREECHKnowsley WorksSkills for Growth BankLiverpool John Moores UniversityThe Local Enterprise PartnershipKnowsley Community CollegeKnowsley ChamberSefton CouncilHalton Council
June 2014 25
26 June 2014
Property
BLUEBELL PARK OPENS ITS DOORS TO RESIDENTS
Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT), part of
the First Ark Group, which is
committed to creating a successful
and sustainable community for people
and businesses in Knowsley, is
celebrating another milestone by
opening its first show apartment on
the new Bluebell Park Extra Care
development in Huyton.
The development, which is due forcompletion in autumn of 2014, willprovide 122 new one and two bedroomapartments for the over 55s.Approximately 101 of the apartments willbe available through Extra Care Facilities,which will cater for the needs of olderpeople by offering varying levels of careand support tailored to individualrequirements.
The show flat, which is open toeveryone who is interested in part-owningone of Bluebell Park’s apartments throughOlder Person’s Shared Ownership, boastsa fitted kitchen with an integrated oven,
hob and extractor and a shower roomwith walk in shower. All apartments arealso prewired for assistive technology,allowing residents easy access tocommunicate with the scheme’s warden.
Communal facilities will also beavailable to residents, which include arestaurant, lounge areas, a hairdresser,activity rooms and a guest bedroom. Careand support facilities will include assistedbathrooms as well as outdoor spaces.
The site also includes a lift, secureentry system and allocated car parkingaccessed through secure electric gates.
Over 60 people attended the officialshow flat opening event in May, with 20registering their interest in reserving aproperty and four confirmed reservations.
Ian Thomson, executive director at KHT,said: “Putting the residents of Knowsleyat the heart of our developments isparamount for KHT. Bluebell Park willallow older people with a care need tolive independently in a relaxed,
comfortable environment that has beentailor-made to suit their needs.
“We’re proud to be investing in theborough and look forward to showcasingthe fantastic new apartments andfacilities at Bluebell Park to thecommunity over the coming months.”
Liverpool and England captain andHuyton ambassador, Steven Gerrard,
marked the official development launchof Bluebell Park in April 2013.
If you would like to register your
interest in the Bluebell Park scheme,
visit the show flat or would like more
information about the development,
please call 0151 290 7000 or visit
www.bluebellparkapartments.co.uk
Villages Housing Open Day
If you or someone you know is looking for a new home, then head to StockbridgeVillage on Saturday 14th June from 9am- 2pm for Villages Housing’s Open Day.
The team are preparing for a large open house event with over 15 properties available toview on the day. Staff will be on hand to show prospective tenants around the homes and willalso be on hand to discuss any special requirements and answer any questions.
With two bedroom apartments available to rent from just £98.33 per week including allheating and service charges, the properties are not only in a great location with motorwaysclose by and Liverpool City Centre 20 minutes away, but they are also affordable.
Generous decorating vouchers are also provided to new tenants allowing them to decoratetheir new homes to their own preference.
Sarah Bevan, initiatives director at Villages Housing said: “We are really keen to showpeople the fantastic properties we currently have available, and hope that by holding the openday on a Saturday, it will be a convenient time for people who work throughout the week to
come and have a look. After chatting to people at other event we haveheld, we’ve discovered that many people in employment do not realisethat social housing is an option to them.
“Many believe it is solely for people in receipt of benefits and this isnot the case. Social housing provides accommodation that isaffordable to people on low incomes and is available to people inemployment too.”
The open day will also be an opportunity for people to come andvisit Stockbridge Villages and see the huge transformation to the area.The recent regeneration in Stockbridge Village has seen more than1600 homes benefit from energy saving improvements, making homeswarmer and cutting energy costs.
This has been in addition to all the other improvements inStockbridge Village including a brand new supermarket,neighbourhood centre with leisure centre, library and brand newschool. The regeneration works are already proving to be a huge hitwith many new residents moving to the area thanks to the combinationof excellent style, quality and value of the homes. Residents haveexpressed their delight at the changes with one resident telling us,“The whole of Stockbridge Village is looking wonderful and there isdefinitely a feeling that this is a new chapter for the area. The newneighbourhood centre means there are events and activities for all thefamily to enjoy every day.”
If you are thinking of moving, why not make Stockbridge Villageyour new home. With properties available now why not come along onSaturday 14th June from 9am -2pm and have a look aroundStockbridge Village and see the changes for yourself. For moreinformation call 0151 949 5080 or visitwww.villages.org.uk/findahome.
June 2014 27
28 June 2014
PROPERTIES TO LET
Windsor House, Delph Lane, Whiston
2 Bedroom 2 reception Room apartments, fitted kitchen, views of Henly Park £450 PCM
3 Bedroom 1 reception Room apartments, fitted kitchen, views of Henly Park £450 PCM
ALL DOUBLE GLAZED, NEWLY REFURBISHED, ELEC CENTRAL HEATING, NEW CARPETS, SECURITYINTERCOM SYSTEM
PROPERTIES TO BUY
Twig Lane, L36• Traditional 3 bed end terrace house • 3 double bedrooms• Open reception room with bay window• Bright sun/morning room
£82,000
Rio House, L36• 1st floor apartment • 2 bedrooms• New build• Secure complex with 24hr security
£74,950
Hawthorn Road, L36• 3/4 bedrooms • 3 reception rooms• Large gardens• Popular area of Huyton with Roby
£182,000
Coral Avenue, L36• 3 bedroom, Front & rear gardens • Very popular area of Huyton close to
shops, colleges and transport links• Ideal investment opportunity
£79,950
REDUCED
UNDEROFFER
UNDEROFFER
June 2014 29
JAGUAR LANDROVERSTAFF GIVE A HELPING HAND
A charitable group made up of
employees at Jaguar Land Rover in
Halewood has donated £1,800 for life
saving equipment for St John
Ambulance’s Cycle Response Unit
(CRU).
The Halewood Helping Hand Fund(HHHF) is a registered charity sponsoredby a number of employees of JaguarLand Rover.
Originally formed by Ford employees inthe 1960’s to raise funding for ahydrotherapy pool in a local children’shospital, the charity has donated morethan a million pounds over the last fourdecades to assist individuals and groupsin need of medical or therapeuticequipment.
Employees donate via Give As YouEarn with varying amounts, dependingupon individual choice and the fund ismanaged by a Committee who reviewrequests on an ongoing basis.
Chris Arner, an employee at JaguarLand Rover is also a volunteer for StJohn Ambulance and is the RegionalOperational Cycling Officer in the NorthWest.
Chris applied to the HHHF for funds topurchase an Automated ExternalDefibrillator (AED) for the CRU.
The CRU uses bikes, complete withfully equipped medical kits and AEDs, atevents like music festivals and fun runsto quickly access areas that may be hardto reach by vehicles.
Chris said: “We’re incredibly grateful forthis donation which means we canpurchase one of the AEDs that we useon the bikes.
“An AED is an important piece ofequipment that can save lives in theminutes after someone suffers a cardiacarrest. The machine shocks the heartback into action.
“In the UK, one person suffers a heartattack every six minutes and as many asone in three will die before they reachhospital if their heart stops in cardiacarrest.
“For each minute that passes withoutdefibrillation, the chances of survival fallby up to 10 per cent. Survival ratesincrease by more than 50% if an AED isused within the first four minutes.”
John Davies, a volunteer with the CRU,dropped in on his bike to collect thecheque, he said: “Being part of the CRUteam is amazing.
“The bikes are fully kitted out for us todeal with emergency situations and wecan often get to casualties much quickerthan a conventional ambulance,especially on rough terrain or in crowdedareas.”
June Cotterill is the secretary of theHHHF, she said: “We’re thrilled to beable to help St John Ambulance in thisway.
“We hope the AED is never neededbut, if it is, the funds donated by HHHFmight just save someone’s life”.
L-R: Dave Ullathorne, committee member of HHHF, John Davies and Chris Arner from St
John Ambulance
Avoid penalty heartachethis World Cup As the start of the World Cupapproaches, Knowsley Council’s roadsafety team is highlighting the dangersof driving the morning after drinkingalcohol.
Many people will enjoy a few drinks as theywatch the football and most wouldn’t evenconsider getting into their car and drivingafterwards. However, due to the late kick-offtimes of many of the matches, people maydrink for much longer than usual or later intothe night.
Because of this, there is a real risk thatpeople who would not dream of drink-drivingmay still be over the limit, or unfit to drive,the ‘morning after’.
This is because it takes a lot longer thanmost people think for alcohol to pass throughthe body. On average it takes around onehour per unit of alcohol, though this can vary
depending on a number of factors.The main message from the campaign is
not ‘don’t drink’, but ‘don’t drink anything ifyou are driving’ and ‘don’t drink heavily if youhave to drive the following morning’.
Knowsley’s road safety and working wellteams will be available to answer anyquestions you have about drinking and drivingand general road safety on the following days:• Monday 9 June – Huyton One Stop Shop • Tuesday 10 June – Asda, Huyton• Friday 13 June - Kirkby One Stop Shop
You will also be able to pick up a freeWorld Cup wall chart for you to follow thescores and progress of the tournament all theway to the final.
For more information and a copy of thewall chart, contact the road safety teamon 0151 443 2232 or [email protected]
YOTAM OTTOLENGHI JOINSTHE LINE UP AT LIVERPOOLFOOD AND DRINK FESTIVALMiddle Eastern food expert Yotam
Ottolenghi is set to join publican
turned celebrity chef Tom Kerridge in
headlining this year’s Liverpool Food
and Drink Festival, which is taking
place from 19th - 21st September.
Best-selling cookery writer, TV chef andrestaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi will beshowcasing recipes from his forthcomingbook, Plenty More, at the city’s biggestfood extravaganza in Sefton Park.
Yotam - star of Ottolenghi'sMediterranean Feast and author of thebestselling Ottolenghi: The Cookbook,Plenty and Jerusalem - will join more than160 local chefs, producers and drinksexperts in celebrating the city’s thrivingfood and drink scene.
He said: “I’m really looking forward totaking part in Liverpool Food and DrinkFestival this year, meeting local peoplewith a passion for food anddemonstrating some of the dishes thatfeature in my new book, which ispublished around that time.
“With any luck I will have some sparetime to soak up the atmosphere andcheck out the local restaurants andproducers, particularly those who will beputting on a feast in the middle of thecity’s Sefton Park.”
Denise Harris, Managing Director of SKEvents, the company behind LiverpoolFood and Drink Festival, said: “We areabsolutely thrilled to have YotamOttolenghi on board. I am a huge fan ofhis and I’m looking forward to watchinghim do a number of demonstrationsalong with a Q&A that will give anopportunity for our visitors to get more ofan insight into his style of cooking.
Liverpool Food and Drink Festival, nowin its seventh year, is a three daycelebration of the city’s restaurants, cafes,bars and producers. This year’s festivalwill kick off with a brand new Friday
evening event, which will run from 4-9pm.Tickets start from £5 online and entry isfree for children (under 14).
Further celebrity chefs will beannounced over the next couple ofmonths.
For the latest news and developmentson Liverpool Food and Drink Festival, visitwww.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.ukor follow @livfooddrink on Twitter.
TV chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi
KCC Student through toWorld Skills in BelfastKnowsley Community College is pleasedto announce that Chelsea Anderson hasbeen selected for the finals of the WorldSkills UK Intermediate HairdressingCompetition.
Chelsea is currently studying on a Level 2Hairdressing course at the College.
Tutor Paula Shaw, said: “Chelsea hasworked very hard to reach this stage of thecompetition. She is highly motivated and isconsistent in her approach to all aspects ofher course. Chelsea has succeeded in gainingsome excellent skills during her time here atthe college”.
The event will take place in Belfast on 19June at Belfast Metropolitan College.
Call Sean on:Work: 07410 062850 Home: 0151 525 2096
Text my mobile and I’ll ring you back!
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LICENSING ACT 2003 - NOTICE OF APPLICATIONFOR A PREMISES LICENCE
TAKE NOTICE that Somas Ahilen has applied for apremises licence for 3 Tarbock Road, Huyton L36 5XNto sell alcohol for consumption off the premisesMonday to Sunday 6.30am to 10.30pm. The existingshop is to be rebranded into an ʻEverydayzʼconvenience shop which will also be selling a widerange of goods such as bread, milk, newspapers,household products and other groceries. A record ofthe application can be inspected by the public between9am and 4pm Monday to Friday at the LicensingAuthority, Environmental Health and ConsumerProtection, Corporate Resources, 2nd Floor YorkonBuilding, Archway Road, Huyton L36 9FB. Please ring0151 443 2300 to arrange an appointment.www.knowsley.gov.uk Any responsible authority or any other person wishingto make representations on this application must do soin writing to Knowsley Licensing Authority by 30 June2014. It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly makea false statement in connection with an applicationpunishable with a maximum fine of £5000 on summaryconviction for the offence.
June 2014 31
HAUNTED MERSEYSIDE WITH TOM SLEMEN
The relentless river of time eventually
washes away everything, including our
memories, and eventually our bodies
and all of our belongings, and the only
permanent thing in our life is, ironically,
change, but in all of the years I have spent
investigating ghosts and the supernatural, I
would say the bond of love often remains,
long after a person has physically left this
life, and this is especially so with parents
and grandparents.
Why love outlasts life is unknown, but love is apowerful emotion, and perhaps, long after wehave passed on, some imprint of it is left behind.
Again and again I have noticed the post-deathbond of love that exists between grandparent andgrandchild, and how the love of nan and grand-dad transcends the grave itself, and this is thesubject of the following true story.
In March 2010, a 19-year-old girl we shall callNatalie was deserted by her 22-year-old partner,Adam. Natalie was three months pregnant at thetime and naturally heartbroken at Adam’sdeparture.
She was left alone in her flat in Huyton, andthe teenaged mum-to-be soon lost herconfidence. All of her friends were in relationshipsand many of them were married.
Natalie tried to look for work but was turneddown for every job she applied for, but still shevisited the Job Centre almost every day, and oneday as she returned from a job interview inAintree, she saw her former partner Adam drivingpast in a new car with an unknown blonde andNatalie’s heart broke in two.
She came to a bus stop, and here she wascounting change in her hand as she carried thebaby of the man who had coldly driven past heras if she wasn’t there. She felt so stupid; why hadshe ever believed he had loved her?
By the time the bus came she was almost intears. When she got home, Natalie texted herthree closest friends, and not one replied, exceptfor Keeley, and she responded two hours later.
Natalie asked her if she wanted to come over‘for a gab’ but Keeley said she wasn’t well.
Things picked up for a while when Nataliegave birth to her son David, because her motherbought the baby clothes and visited for the firstfew months, but after that Natalie’s mother got anew job miles away and was always too tired tocall around every day.
Natalie’s landlord then put the rent up and thegirl had to move to an affordable one-bedroomflat in Kirkby, and as chance would have it, thisflat was close to the place where the girl’s nanused to live ten years before.
Her nan had sadly passed away four years agowhen Natalie was fifteen, and she had beenclose to her nan and her grandmother hadadored her.
One wintry night in 2011, Natalie was sittingwith the baby on her knee, rubbing his back toget his wind up, and she felt so low. She had only£3 left in the electric meter and sat in a semi-darkened living room in front of a miserable two-bar electric fire.
She was not thinking of anything supernaturalat the time – her mind was far too concernedwith worldly affairs and she was occupied withfinding ways to get out of the rut she believedshe was in.
Around 9pm, David, the baby, began to smileand looked at something above the electric fire.He made grabbing motions to whatever he couldsee, and this spooked Natalie a bit. ‘What is it,babe?’ she asked her son, and he giggled andsaid something that sounded like “nan”.
At first, Natalie thought someone was
shining a laser pointer through her window,because she saw a point of light out the cornerof her eye, but then this light grew into whatseemed like a huge luminous orb made ofgolden light, about five feet off the ground, and allof a sudden, in the centre of this ball of soft light,Natalie saw the face of her late nan appear.
The baby kicked his legs and laughed at thismanifestation. Natalie was understandably a bitscared, but became more curious thanfrightened.
In her mind, the girl clearly heard a voice shehad not heard since she was fifteen, and yet itwas a voice she knew so well; she knew itscadence and timbre and right away it brought somany memories flooding back.
‘Hiya Nat, don’t be scared,’ the voice in herhead said.
‘Nan, is that you?’ the stunned girl gasped.‘Yes love,’ came the reply, ‘it’s me but I can’t
stay long, but I had to come and see youbecause you look so down, and we’re all worriedabout you over here, and little David.’ And as thiswas communicated, Natalie saw the face smileand a tear seemed to roll from her nan’s left eye.
Natalie could hardly talk because her throathad closed up with sorrow. She couldn’t believeher nan had come back to talk to her.
‘I – I,’ Natalie struggled to speak through hertears and her choked-up throat, ‘I never thoughtI’d ever see you again, nan.’
‘Ah, don’t be daft, love,’ the girl’s nan said in avery reassuring voice, ‘I’m with you everywhereyou go, and your auntie Lyn. Now, listen love, youcan’t sit in like this every night. I want you to startgoing out so you can meet someone to look afteryou. Start going out. I’ve got to go now Nat, givemy love to your mum.’
And the golden light faded. David startedcrying. Natalie sobbed and rocked him, and thenshe got up and turned on the light and looked atthe spot in mid-air where she had just seen herlovely nan’s face. Am I going mad? Or did I reallysee what I just saw? David saw her too.
Natalie had this argument with herself andthen she calmed David down and picked up hermobile and was about to tell her mum what hadjust happened, but thought her mother wouldprobably think she was losing the plot.
On the following day, though, Natalie’s mothercalled her, and Natalie decided to tell her whathad happened.
‘You saw your nan in a light?’ her mothersounded sceptical just posing that question;Natalie could plainly hear the cynicism in hervoice.
‘Mam, I know it sounds mad, but I swear onDavid’s life – ‘
‘Oh, don’t say stupid things like that, Nat’ hermother replied.
Natalie butted in. ‘That proves I’m not lyingmum, I saw me nan last night and she told me tostart going out so that I’ll meet someone.’
The voice of Nat’s mum went up an octave.‘And who’s gonna mind the baby if you startgoing out? I’m knackered working all the hoursGod sends. And where are you going to getmoney from to start going out on the town, eh?Come into the real world Nat.’
‘I’m only telling you what me nan said, Mam;you think I’m making this up!’
‘Nat, you’ve been half asleep, and you’vedreamt about your nan because she used to liveround there near Tower Hill – ‘
‘Mam, can I just get a word in edgewaysplease? I’ve just remembered something. I amsure me nan said she was with me everywhere Igo – and so was auntie Lyn. Has auntie Lyndied?’
‘What?’ the girl’s mother laughed. ‘She’lloutlive everyone. Course she’s still alive, butas you know I haven’t talked to my sister foryears after what she did – ‘
‘Mum, don’t go into all that; all I want toknow is: is auntie Lyn still alive?’
‘Oh I’m going,’ Natalie’s mother announcedgrouchily, ‘you’re turning into one of thosecranky mediums, you wanna get a grip!’
And she hung up. But an hour laterNatalie’s mobile rang, and her mum said:‘She’s dead,’ and her voice sounded flat andbarely audible.
‘Who’s dead?’ Natalie asked, and hermother told her as she cried. Her sister –Natalie’s auntie – Lyn, had died frompneumonia after undergoing a heartoperation three months back, but because ofthe long-lasting feud between Lyn and Natalie’smum, Lyn’s husband had coldly kept the news ofthe death secret.
Although this was tragic news, it seemed tovindicate what the ghost of Natalie’s nan hadsaid, that she and Lyn were watching overNatalie.
Then something very bizarre took place. Natalie left her purse in a supermarket in
Huyton one afternoon, and panicked once sherealised it had been mislaid, but some kind soulposted the purse to her, and inside that pursewas seventy pounds in crisp new notes. Natalieonly had twelve quid in that purse when she lostit.
She decided it was a sign, and took her nan’sadvice. Natalie got her friend Keeley to mind thebaby, and she went out for the night, and
although it felt strange, being out alone, it wasalso a bit liberating to Natalie.
She met a student named Ben in a pub inMathew Street that night, and he was not like theusual predatory fellahs Natalie was accustomedto. Ben was very generous and caring and neverlaid a finger on Natalie or looked at her in a lewdway. He offered to pay for a hackney to take herhome safely that night but she declined.
She accepted his phone number, and theybegan seeing one another. Ben said he felt hehad known Natalie all of his life, and she felt thesame. Ben accepted David as if he was his ownson, and he and Natalie are now engaged, andlive together in Woolton, and Natalie believes thisnew-found happiness is all down to her belovednan.
• Haunted Liverpool 25 is out now from
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A LOVE BEYOND DEATH
“Ah, don’t be daft, love,’ the girl’s
nan said in a very reassuring
voice, ‘I’m with you everywhere
you go, and your auntie Lyn”
289 9999
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32 June 2014
PLANTATION STORM TO VICTORY
Plantation Primary in Halewood
stormed to victory at the Etihad
Stadium winning the National Premier
League Schools Tournament.
The school’s under-11 boys team wonthe opportunity to represent Liverpool FCat the Premier League SchoolsTournament after beating off toughcompetition from schools acrossMerseyside.
Each of the 20 Barclays Premier LeagueClubs stages their own competition toselect a school to represent them onfinals day. This year more than 10,000players from more than 1,300 schoolsacross the country battled it out for the
right to play at the Etihad Stadium.The Plantation Primary team comfortably
won their Finals Group and went on tomeet the team representing Fulham in thesemi-finals. Fulham has won thecompetition for the last two years running.Unintimidated the Plantation Primary teamstormed to a 3-1 victory.
The team played the pupilsrepresenting Crystal Palace in the finalwhich they went on to win 2-0.
The Plantation Primary School teamwere crowned the 2014 Premier LeagueSchools Tournament champions andpresented with a replica Premier Leaguetrophy.
Ian Hardman, headteacher at PlantationPrimary School, said: “It was a fantasticevent and a wonderful opportunity for ourpupils to play on a pitch at a PremierLeague ground where some of the bestplayers in the world have performed.
“The team had a really authenticPremier League experience - wearing theLiverpool FC club kit, using theManchester City dressing rooms, andwalking out of the tunnel to the PremierLeague anthem.
“To go on and lift the trophy was just theperfect end to a great day of finalsfootball. We’re all very, very proud of theteam!”
CELEBRATING SUCCESSIN HALEWOODMembers of the Halewood Leisure
Centres Kick Boxing Club are
celebrating after a number of
members gained their black belt
grading.
Pictured third right is Terry McElhinney,owner of the Terry McElhinney KickBoxing Club, with club members SenseiDominic Murphy who passed his 2ndDan black belt and three other members,Olly Gurrin, Paul Brady and Chris Cliffegained their 1st Dan black belts.
By royal appointment
Prescot Cables have announced theappointment of Neil Prince asplayer/manager.
Neil played professionally at TorquayUnited and after returning to the North Westplayed in the Conference North forStalybridge, Hyde, Southport, Marine,Droylsden and Vauxhall Motors.
He then spent a very successful period asplayer/manager at Bootle who he led to theirfirst Liverpool Senior Cup win in over 100years and to within two points of the NorthWest Counties League title.
After leaving Bootle last season he playedfor Skelmersdale in the Evostik Premierdivision.
Neil brings a reputation for attackingfootball and professionalism to the Cablesjob. He will be joined by his assistants NeilBlack the former Marine and Colwyn Baystriker and Neil Murphy a defender whoplayed for Blackpool and Marine.
Tony Zeverona the Cables chairman said:“We are delighted to welcome Neil to Cablesalong with his assistants. They bring withthem a wealth of non-league experience andare all still able to make a contribution on thepitch.
“Neil is an ambitious young manager whoimpressed us with his man managementskills, his commitment to attacking footballand his intention to bring in young andhungry local players.
“We are confident that he will bringsuccess to our Club”.
