view wirral home edition 2011

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� e Be� Of Wirral

Country RevivalKitchen ChicCity Living

Christmas Party GuideTaste Of Autumn

Club Wro

Cool SchoolsCommunity NewsGood Times

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HomeRegular Features

HOME EDITION 2011

Fabulous Homes

E D I T I O N

VIEW_Home11_cover.indd 1 25/10/2011 18:52

JACK NICHOLSONRUSSEL BRANDWARREN BEATTY

OLIVER REEDJAMES HEWITTCOLIN FARRELL

FAGEN

Coming Soon To West Kirby

Rogues?

rogue

Merseyside’s Best Bar.Something to celebrate this Autumn.

The Wro | Northwest House | Grange Road | West Kirby | Wirral CH48 4DY

emai l in [email protected] te lephone 0151 625 2010

www.the-wro.co.uk | Bookings can be made via our website

Bar Loft Lounge

2008 WirralBest Bar Team of the Year


2010 Merseyside’sBest Bar




w w w . v i e w w i r r a l . c O m 3w w w . v i e w w i r r a l . c O m 3

VIEW

www.viewwirral.com

this Issue

Paula Brown Editor

Editor Paula Brown T: 07950 800 868Email: [email protected]

Marketing & Promotions Manager Alison Hunter T: 07967 631 717Email: [email protected]

Design & Art Direction Matt Ollerhead T: 07881 638 764Email: [email protected]

The Team

www.viewwirral.com© Strictly copyright all content View Magazine. Reproduction in part or

whole is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All

prices included with this publication were correct at the time of print. All

expressions and opinions demonstrated within this publication are those

of the editor(s) including contributors.

4

11

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40

15

Autumn...the season of mists and

mellow fruitfulness? Absolutely, but its

also the season that thoughts turn to

sprucing up our homes (and wardrobes)

for the festive season and battening down

the hatches for the onslaught of winter.

At its best, autumn conjures up

images of long walks on a crisp, sunny

afternoon and nights curled up in front

of a warm fire arguing over the merits

of Nancy Dell’Olio versus Lulu in this

year’s big dance-off (my money is on

the Italian!!).

And if cosy nights in are what you are

after, this is the edition for you. With

tonnes of ideas and on-trend inspiration

for your home, some great recipes and

early Christmas present suggestions, settle

down with a hot toddy and plan out the

new season in style.

Finally, for fashion fiends we’ve got

everything from Gok’s latest arrivals to

the super new fashion frames for eyes,

and even make-up tips from our friends

at YSL – making sure you look every

bit as stylish as your home this season!

Welcome...

Paula Brown Editor

bit as stylish as your home this season!

Inside

5023

5 Cafe Culture

7 Forget the Take-Away

8 Xmas Dining Guide

14 The Review - Nova

18 Gemstone Hotlist

22 Country Revival

25 The Architects View

27 Rustic Renaissance

30 Super Showroom

33 Cool Kitchen

36 Marvellous Mayfair

40 City Living

42 Changing Rooms

44 Embrace Autumn

46 Cool Schools

50 Lunch Break

54 Gorgeous Guide

58 Business View

59 Career Ladder

60 Financial Matter

62 Business & Community

65 Relaxed Rentals

68 Goodtimes

VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 3 25/10/2011 19:46

m a g a z i n e m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 14 m a g a z i n e m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e 4

It has felt like autumn for a long time, but at least we have the right produce to enjoy it: apples, pears, blackberries, butternut squash, pumpkin, mushrooms and caulifl ower give us that comfort factor we all crave.

So, if you’re getting organised for an outdoor feast for Hallowe’en or Bonfi re Night, or perhaps just after an excuse to indulge on the sofa, this seasons recipes will make eating wherever you are a warming experience….

Pickof the season 4 large cooking apples, peeled, cored and cut into

big chunks 1 tbsp water 3 tbsp sugar 225 g fresh or frozen blackberries, or mixed berries For the crumble:170 g plain fl our 75 g butter 75 g demerara sugar

Preheat the oven to 180C/gas 4.

Put the apple chunks, water and sugar into a saucepan

over a lowish heat and cook until the apples are soft

and mushy; this should take about 10 minutes. While

cooking, stir it every minute or so to prevent sticking.

Taste and add more sugar if it needs it.

Transfer the apple pulp into individual bowls or one big

pie dish and allow to cool slightly. Stir the berries into the

apples.

To make the crumble, rub the butter into the fl our until it

resembles very coarse breadcrumbs. However, if you rub

it too much the crumble will not be crunchy. Combine

with the sugar. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the

slightly cooled apple and bake for 15 mins for small

crumbles or 30-45 mins for larger crumbles. Serve warm

with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

1.Take the squash and chop off the stalk

and fl ower. Peel with a potato peeler.

Chop in half and use a spoon to remove

all seeds. Chop into 1 inch cubes

2. Add the oil and butter to a large pan.

Melt the butter on a low heat.

3. Peel & chop the onion. Fry it gently in

the pan, with the lid on, until it starts to

soften.

4. Peel the potatoes and chop into

slightly smaller cubes (about 2cm). Add

to the onions, ensuring you stir them well

to coat with oil.

5. Add the butternut squash. Stir well

then cover and cook for 10 minutes,

stirring occasionally.

6. After 10 minutes check that the

potato has started to soften. When it

softens mix the stock with 1 litre of water

and add to the pan.

7. Add the cream and the coriander

leaves (if using). Use an electric blender

until smooth.

Ingredients

Method

Apple and Berry Crumble

Butternut Squash Soup

1 large butternut squash1 medium-large onion500g potatoesFresh coriander leaves (optional)1 stock cubeKnob of butter and 30ml olive oil75ml double cream (optional)Pepper to taste

Ingredients

If you choose to leave out the berries, add ½ tsp ground

cinnamon or a few cloves to the apple. You can also add

oats to the crumble, or nuts, such as chopped pecans,

walnuts or nibbed almonds. If you want to use less sugar,

you can cook eating apples instead of the cooking variety,

although they have a slightly less fl uffy texture.

EDITORS TIP



Chatting to owner Jane Clagueover a delicious cappuccinoin the quirky and charmingsurroundings of her new venture, a delicatessen and coffee lounge, it’s hard not to be impressed with her obvious industry knowledge and endless enthusiasm for what she does.

With over 25 years of restaurantmanagement within the industry it’s hardly surprising that Jane has managed to create a totally unique concept with the achingly charming Stones.

Nestled in a former sandstone cottage on Telegraph Road, Stones has managed to combine the very best of a relaxed coffee lounge with the decadence of a top end delicatessen.

The delicatessen offers homemade cakes positioned alongside delicious pates, scrumptious quiches, chutneys, oils to divine signature platters with locally sourced cheeses and of course a super selection of wines, boutique beers and traditional beverages.

With this selection of gourmet delicacies, and a fabulous lunchtime takeaway service, exclusive hire and a sunny terrace on which to enjoy that obligatory autumn hot chocolate or cheeky wine – Stones is set to become a fi rm favourite for Heswall foodies and indeed anyone who appreciates the perfect coffee!

As we welcome the latest edition to Heswall’s

burgeoning cafe scene, we take a peek at

what makes Stones a real gem...CaféCulture


m a g a z i n e m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 16

As we reluctantly step away from the gift that was our Indian summer and start to batten down the hatches for autumn, we can at least take some comfort from the fact that our beloved Wro Lounge has just launched a new seasonal menu to die for…..

...at The ro LoungeEditor – Paula Brown

Show-Stoppers

At our sneak preview ‘tasting session’ in September, we were treated to some of the land mark dishes from the new Autumn menu. This inventive new offering combines creative fl avours with a real hint of autumnal ‘warmth’ from comforting favourites such as the Slow Braised Lamb Shank with Red Wine and Rosemary Jus, to the indulgent home-made Chocolate Fudge Cake – this menu just oozes seasonal style!

Delightful DesertAs I am not the biggest fan of cooked fruit, I have to say the Apple Crumble was probably my least favourite option – until I tasted it! Head Chef Paula cleverly serves the delicious home-made pud with the most amazing Lancashire Cheese ice-cream. The fl avour of the warm apples fused with the sweetness of the crumble and tanginess of the cheese is a superb combination – this has to be sampled!

To-Die-For DinnerOur fi rm favourite had to be the divine Pork Chops. Baked with Wild Mushrooms in a super-creamy Crème Fraiche sauce, this dish is tasty, hearty and delicious – all at the same time!

easonal SLuscious LunchFor the perfect Autumn lunch, why not try the delectable Warm Goat’s Cheese Salad. The sharp, creamy Goats Cheese blends beautifully with the Wro signature salad dressing and the side of crusty bread makes this a great choice for girlie lunches or a light bite.

It has to be a Sauvignon , the perfect bedfellow for any

Goats Cheese Dish. Try a top Wro favourite the Marlborough Sauvigon. Guava and mango give way to lively gooseberry

and kiwi fruit with a little pineapple and grapefruit!

£19.95 for a bottle£5.20 for a regular glass

Herringbone HillsHerringbone Hills

WINE MATCH

OUT & ABOUT


w w w . v i e w w i r r a l . c O m 7

If you are after something a little bit spicy to warm up any autumn evening then M&S Simply Food in Heswall have the answer....they have a superb range of Indian

style ready meals, spice packs, accompaniaments, pickles and pastes.

They have gone to great lengths to be sure they have sourced the best and most authentic tasting ingredients

to bring you meals bursting full of fresh fl avours and natural goodness.

Good food with nothing to hide…

It really is as simple as that. Our ready meals not only make life easier, they’re all free from artifi cial colours,

fl avourings and hydrogenated fats.

We chose our favourites from a

selection of M&S Simply Food

Heswall’s Indian Delights...

WIN WIN WINM&S Simply Food Heswall have given you the

chance to sample their Indian ready meal selection, win a ‘takeaway’ meal for 4 with wine by simply

emailing [email protected] or log onto www.viewwirral.com. Closing date 31/11/11.

CHRISTMAS FOOD ORDERING SERVICE AVAILABLE NOW, IN

STORE AT M&S SIMPLY FOOD HESWALL

Forget the Take-Away!

Indian Dip Selection

A tradtional selection perfect with

poppadoms...tomato and chilli,

coriander and mint raita and spiced

mango chutney.

Chicken Korma served with Pilau RiceA mild creamy curry made with pieces of marinated chargrilled chicken breast, toasted almonds, coconut, cardomom and mace.

Indian Starter Selection A tempting selection of Indian style onion bahjis, hand wrapped vegetable samosas and vegetable pakoras.

Basmati Rice Aromatic basmati rice flavoured with

cumin and cardamom.

Chicken Jalfrezi A fiery tomato curry made with pieces

of marinated chicken breast, corinader

leaf and chilli garnished with flame

seared red peppers.

M&S Sauces These ready sauces are inspired by the different regions of India, Madras from the South, Rogan Josh from the North West and Balti from the North or simply go for a traditional favourite Tikka Masala.

M&S Spice PacksChoose from Lamb Rogan Josh, Tikka Masala, Chicken

Jalfrezi or Chicken Korma to create

the perfect curry at home. These packs contain the perfect blend of herbs and spices complete with a recipe to enjoy these Indian classics.

Naan Breads

Hand shaped Indian style flat breads

flame baked in a claylined oven...

choose from Peshwari made with

succulent sultanas and dessicated

coconut or garlic and coriander.

Thai Jasmine Rice This fluffy, slightly sticky rice is perfect with spicy thai curries, stir-fries and rich meaty stews.

Korma PasteTo create an authentic delicate

creamy Korma curry.



OUT & ABOUTOUT & ABOUT

christmasPartyguide



Portrait House

WroNew Year’s Eve £49.95

Go for Glamour in the Lounge with the 4 Course Celebration Dinner with Canapés & Fizz on arrival. See in the New Year in Style from 8pm

Party till you drop at The BarLive Music with Amy Chalmers Band £5 per person / First drink plus nibbles

XMAS GUIDE

The wromerseyside BeST christmas experience

(it’s offi cial!)

For the ultimate christmas celebration, head down to one of the fabulous wro venues this season. From the show-stopping decorations (in situ from 26th november) to the supremely delicious festive menu, the wro simply is christmas!

choose the loft for exclusive hire for a larger party, enjoy the decadence of the lounge for smaller parties or dance the night away in the buzzing Bar! its totally wro–Ho–Ho this christmas!

For the ultimate christmas celebration, head down

Lunch 3 courses £17.95 (2 courses £15.95}

Early Evening (must vocate by 7.45pm) 2 courses £16.95Evening Menu 2 courses £21.95 3 courses £24.95

Visit our website to download the Christmas Menu!

Christmas at the Wro

Bookings can be made via our website or call 0151 625 2010 or email [email protected]


athena

XMAS GUIDE

aTHena’Sgorgeous greek-Style celebration!

celebrate the festive season ‘greek Style’ at athenas and you can be sure you will be in for a night to remember. Superb, authentic, affordable cuisine all served in a buzzing atmosphere that is more zorba than Santa!, with special greek nights planned throughout the festive season, party ‘mediterranean’ style at this wonderful family run restaurant. Kala christougena!

Startersmini cold meze (for 2 or more)

Homemade Soup of the Day

Seafood TrioBaby Prawns, Smoked Salmon & Taramosalata

Dolmades g/fslow cooked Stuffed vine leaves with minced

lamb & fl avoured rice

Greek Salad g/fa house favourite with feta cheese and olives

Calamari or Maridakia or Mussels !all lightly fried and served with fresh salad &

lemon

Garlic Mushrooms g/fno explanation required, everyone loves them !

Nico’s Special Lamb Parcels g/fdelicious minced lamb steak ‘patties’ wrapped in aubergine, roasted with feta cheese, served

with a rustic tomato sauce.

Garlic Bread with or without cheese

Main CoursesChicken Souvla g/f

Succulent , marinated, chargrilled chicken

AfeliaPork fi llet pieces ,slowly cooked in red wine, with

bay and fragrant ground coriander seeds

Whole Seabass g/fSimply chargrilled, served with dill scented

steamed vegetables

Chicken Ouzo g/fchicken breast in a cream sauce

Felafel vour popular chick pea fritters with fresh coriander

and lemon juice

Pork Kebab g/fsimply marinated & chargrilled

Vegetable Moussaka vour own tasty recipe

Swordfi sh SteakOven roasted & served with dill scented

vegetables

DessertsBaklava

chocolate Fudge cake

DON’T WANT 3 COURSES ?? NO PROBLEM...JUST HAVE 2 !!

ANY 2 COURSES main course + starter Or dessert

Sun to Thurs 2 courses - 13.95 / 3 courses -16.95

Fri & Sat2 courses - 15.95 / 3 courses - 18.95

Available throughout December

alternatively we can highly recommend our regular

4 course MEZE at 19.95

(please look at the menu on the meze Page)

To Book Please call: 0151 632 0400

107 Dining roomSeasonal Sophistication

For a cool and contemporary christmas celebration, look no further than Heswall’s fi nest, the delectable Dining room 107. with a superb christmas menu and service to match, this fi rm favourite is an excellent choice, whatever the occasion. a form favourite with the view team (we had our Xmas knees up here last year) you can be sure your party will be stylish, fun and very, very tasty!!

a £10 deposit per person is required to confi rm and secure booking - this is non-refundable.

During this busy period, time allocations will be enforced to ensure everyone enjoys their visit to 107.

all tables choosing to dine off our christmas menu will be festively decorated.

Please log on to our website to download our Free christmas Booking Pack including information about our christmas gift to you.

www.107diningroom.co.uk

Christmas Opening TimesFriday 25th november to

Saturday 24th December 12pm - 10pm

christmas Day 12pm - 2pm

Boxing Day 12pm - 6.30pm

27th - 30th open as normal

new Years eve 12pm - 3pm, 5 - 9pm

new Years Day 12pm - 6.30pm

XMAS GUIDE

Starterschefs home made soup of the day served with a

warm bread roll. (v)

Festive prawn cocktail, atlantic prawns in a home made marie rose sauce on mixed lettuce leaves

with sliced brown bread.

Home made chilli con carne topped with melted mature cheddar, spring onion, sour cream &

tortilla chips for dipping.

a salad of pear, stilton and walnuts with julienne of vegand seasonal salad leaves. (v)

eggs Benedict, a lightly toasted muffi n, with local ham, soft poached hen’s egg and creamy

hollandaise sauce.

Spicy fi sh cakes served on salad leaves with balsamic and sweet chilli sauce.

Main CourseTraditional christmas dinner, locally sourced

hand carved turkey, served with all the trimmings, including roasted potatoes, pigs in blankets,

seasonal vegetables and a tasty turkey gravy.

an almond, chestnut and haloumi roast with spicy red wine jus, roasted potatoes and a medley of

festive vegetables.(v)(n)

Home made slow cooked beef, guinness & mushroom casserole with a light puff pastry

crust, creamed mashed potato and braised red cabbage.

10oz char grilled gammon steak served with parsley sauce, fresh watercress and shoe string

fries.

Fresh loin of cod topped with a chorizo and herb crust served with rustic chips, rocket salad and

lime wedge.

Pan fried sea bass served with creamed mash potato, steamed mussels, Provençal sauce and

freshly chopped basil.

DessertsTraditional steamed christmas pudding with

brandy sauce.

Two scoops of movenpick ice cream with a sugar curl.

crème brulee fl avoured with amaretto, caramelised to order, served with a crunchy

amaretto biscuit.

zesty lemon tart with raspberry ice cream.

warmed chocolate yule log with clotted cream and strawberry coulis.

cheese board and biscuits with grapes, celery sticks and caramelised onion. (£3.50 supplement)

Desserts



XMAS GUIDE

The courtyardUber-cool christmas

if super stylish surroundings, amazing staff and an eclectic take on christmas dining is your thing, then look no further than wirral’s latest ‘it’ place.

The courtyard combines all the glamour you would expect from a top city centre venue with the attention to detail you only get in a privately run venue.

global gourmet OfferingFollowing suit from the hugely successful international tapas theme adopted since the launch back in summer, the festive dining offering is fresh, exciting and hugely inventive.

The international mix of chefs, from Spanish to chineses and Bangladeshi – ensure the food is not only authentic, its cooked with unsurpassed knowledge and total commitment.

Sure you can opt for tradition with the obligatory christmas dinner but our advice is to mix your choice with one of the fabulously mouth-watering international starters for a true fl avour of courtyard style!

eclectic crowdwith a superb all-day breakfast, the stunning (and ever-changing) Tapas choice, a host of events planned in the run up to the big-day and staff that just cannot do enough for you, its hardly surprising that this place has a buzz from morning until late.

expect yummy mummies and breakfast buddies early doors followed by the business crowd and lunching ladies around lunchtime, making way for the beautiful people as the lights dim and the vibe hots up long into the night!

For reservations telephone 0151 651 1118. The courtyard, 7-9 rosemount, Oxton, wirral, cH43 5Sg tel 0151 651 1118 email [email protected].

a courtyard christmasStartersDuck RollShredded roast duck in a crispy spring roll, served with hoi sin sauceCalamariTender squid fried in light batter, served with a lemon mayonnaise

Garlic MushroomsSautéed in garlic, cream and dry sherrySpiced Ham or Brie Croquettescontinental style fritters in crisp breadcrumbs, served with cranberry sauce

Spiced SoupSpiced pumpkin / butternut squash and chestnut, served with rustic breadGoats CheeseToasted artisan bread, grilled goats cheese served with a christmas chutney

****Roast TurkeyServed with all the trimmings and sage and onion gravyRoast BeefServed with traditional trimmings, Yorkshire puds and beef and port gravy

Spinach Nut RoastServed with mushroom gravy (Quorn roast also available)Salmon with Lemon and ParsleyServed with hollandaise sauce****

Panna CottaFlavoured with rum and coconut, accompanied with a strawberry salad.Panettone Bread and Butter Puddingrich with cream and vanilla

Christmas PuddingServed with brandy sauce

Sticky Toffee PuddingServed with custard

Tiramisucoffee and mice Pies

lunch £18.95 per headDinner £24.95 per head

XMAS GUIDE

a courtyard christmas



Forget Club Med – move

over Club Tropicana, Club

Wro is what it’s all about!

OUT & ABOUT

ro!CLUB

Whatever your passion, the inventive team at The Wro have more than likely got a club or an event to suit. From wine to walking and fi lm to food, Sally, Howard and the team have created a whole host of ‘Wro Style’ groups to help you indulge your hobby and make new friends.

Most of us are now familiar with The Wro – Wirral (and Merseyside’s) offi cial number one bar, the Wro charm goes way beyond great food, superb staff and fabulous surroundings. ‘We hope we have created a bit of a community here,’ commented owner Sally. ‘Our clubs are proving to be massively popular. I guess it’s because they allow you to socialise and maybe learn something or at least meet new people in a fun environment.’

And there really is something for everyone. With regular wine tasting nights, a monthly book and fi lm club and curry club as well as special fashion, charity, local history and launch nights on offer you need never be stuck for something to do again!



Here’s a quick glance at some of Club Wro’s fi nest…

Join fellow readers at the monthly book club. This friendly, fun group has reviewed a wide range of titles from Nigel Slater’s Toast to the most recent, Willy Russell’s The Wrong Boy.All washed down with a glass of your favourite tipple and a selection of (often themed) nibbles and some really great banter!

What could be better than a bracing walk around one of the regions most

picturesque spots – doing it Wro style.

With bacon butties to start, a knowledgeable guide and lovely lunch to look

forward to, what are you waiting for?

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Jonathon Ross, or just love a good movie, check out the next showing in the lovely Loft!With half time interval, full table service, delicious snacks and of course the obligatory popcorn on offer, this is a cinema experience with a difference!

Home-made authentic curries – with traditional accompaniments and even

more traditional cold beer on hand! Curry Club is perfect for dedicated

foodies and anyone who loves a good night out.

Expect a new curry dish from chef Paula and her team each time for a curry

experience that is more Passage to India than Argee Bhajee!!

Monday 31st October (Loft) Screening Halloween - the original with Donald

Pleasance and Jamie Lee Curtis. £10 entry includes

fi lm, your fi rst drink, popcorn and food in the interval.

Thursday 3rd November (Loft) Gormet Curry Club. The last curry night of 2011 will

go out with a bang! We intend having some real

gourmet dishes for this grand Finale. Ticket is £20 and

includes pops, 3 starter, rice & bread and a dessert

plus your fi rst couple of drinks.

Wednesday 16th November (Loft) Wro Readers Club.

Wednesday 23rd November (Loft) Film Club - Dr Zhivago

For details on all the Wro’s up and coming events,

go to www.the-wro.co.uk or sign up for the Wro

newsletter. Just ask in any venue for details.

What could be better than a bracing walk around one of the regions most

Wro On The Go

Monday 31st October (Loft)

WHAT’S ON AT THE WRO?

Home-made authentic curries – with traditional accompaniments and even

Wro Curry Club

Hal’wroween Hal’wroween Hal’wroween Hal’wroween Hal’wroween Hal’wroween Spooktacular!Spooktacular!Spooktacular!Don’t miss this year’s Don’t miss this year’s Don’t miss this year’s spooky family party spooky family party spooky family party

on on on Sunday 30th Sunday 30th Sunday 30th OctoberOctoberOctober from 5pm from 5pm from 5pm October from 5pm OctoberOctoberOctober from 5pm October from 5pm October from 5pm OctoberOctoberOctober from 5pm October

in the Bar!in the Bar!in the Bar!

Join fellow readers at the monthly book club. This friendly, fun group has

Book Club

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Jonathon Ross, or just love a good movie,

Wro Film Club



Sure, I had heard that the owners were a cool

couple with an amazing shared pedigree in food

and hospitality and feedback on the overall dining

experience had been nothing other than exceptional,

but I was keen to find out for myself if there really was

anything ‘new’ about Nova…….

68 Pensby RoadHeswall,

Merseyside CH60 7RE

0151 342 9959

THE REVIEWIn this edition our editors review the latest addition to Heswall’s dining scene – the much talked about Nova restaurant...



From the moment you step inside the relaxed, contemporary interior, you kind of know you are in for a pretty special experience. The seats are wonderfully comfortable and although the interior is pretty bijou, it feels cosy without being too intimate.

After an effusive welcome from one half of the Nova team, the lovely Jana, we made our choices and settled down with a gorgeous bottle of Bordeaux.

Within minutes we were presented with a truly delightful amuse bouche, which, it transpired was indicative of head chef and owner Moyo’s Scottish inspired background – delicious haggis served with toasted poppy seeds and homemade breadcrumbs.

The rest of the meal did not disappoint either. Having recently returned from France, I opted for the Fois Gras which turned out to be a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. The approach here, which was to become a recurring theme throughout the night, was a mixture of inventive fi ne dining twists, wonderfully hearty portions and immaculate presentation.

My guest opted for the classic scallops with pork belly; again this proved to be a real taste sensation and the scallops were cooked to a dreamy consistency –soft yet crisp and amazingly tasty.

As the restaurant began to fi ll up (the Early Doors menu is a massive hit) it was nice to see such an eclectic crowd from couples to girlies and groups of friends – all with one thing in common, fabulous taste!

The Main EventI had been waiting with a certain amount of anticipation for my main course. Recommended by Jana, the Cottage Pie, she promised, was ‘something else’. And it was.

Forget the stodgy pie with lumpy mash like Granny used to make and instead imagine an individual, melt-in-the-mouth pastry case, fi lled with the most divine beef mince reduction and an indulgent swirl of the fl uffi est mash ever. Add to that a perfectly cooked chunk of fi llet, served on the side with dreamy nips and tatties and you have the perfect mix of comfort food, fabulous fl avours and clever execution. This has to be tried!

Final CallUsually we shy away from dessert, and even though we were full to bursting (this menu really is hearty food at it’s best) we just had to share the much acclaimed Taste and Texture of Strawberries. This light, clever little offering really reawakens the palette and it bursting with fl avour. The jelly was my favourite – not sure it will be on the autumn menu as Moyo is passionate about using seasonal ingredients, but whatever you chose I can guarantee it will not disappoint.

Finally, as we sat back to enjoy our coffee and the last of our excellent wine we tried to sum up what had been a truly memorable dining experience…..

Essentially if you want stunning, affordable, inventive yet hearty food, served in a super-relaxed environment Nova has to be the best Heswall has to offer. Whether you are a serious foodie, or are just looking for a local eatery that really does the business, I cannot recommend Nova hightly enough.

In this edition we interview Moyo, Chef Patron of Heswall’s Nova restaurant – possibly the most passionate foodie ever!Where are you from, what is your background?I was born in Nigeria but grew up in Scotland, so I guess you can see those infl uences in my cooking.

What or who inspired you to cook?Not the traditional ‘my Mum or my Gran’ here. I just knew I wanted to get on and make a good career. I was really infl uenced by some of the great chefs I have worked with over the years; it was them who taught me that to be good, I needed to put my career above anything else, and I did. Hey – nobody wants to give up their weekends forever, you have to love it!

What is the favourite dish to cook?I don’t really have a favourite – it can be anything that makes my brain sing!

What is your food heaven?Rice – it has to be the ultimate comfort food and you can do so much with it.

What is your food hell?Oh it has to be onion, I can’t eat it cooked or raw. I love the smell of it cooking but hate the taste and texture.

What would you be if you weren’t a chef?A Florist.

What infl uences you now?Some of the amazing producers we have around here, and great chefs for that matter. Mark (Wilkinson) at Fraiche has been a bit of an inspiration to me. He has helped a lot in terms of setting up the business and offering advice.

Describe your food in 4 sentences…

Its all about the fl avour!

Creating confusion with infusions.

Using the very fi nest ingredients

Perfection on a plate!

Chef Shout



C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

gusto_heswall_magazine.pdf 4 21/10/2011 16:48



Le Bizz, 4 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4HB

Tel: 0151 625 4646Letts Diaries

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& Notebooks

Free Filofax pen with Filofax organiser

purchases* *while stocks last

Filofax Diaries & Accessories

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Helium party balloons for any occasion

Corporate Events Product Launches Helium gas supply Personalised/Logo’d/

printed balloons supplied Tableware and party sundries

7 day delivery

“Balloons can transform a space or just make a simple statement such as I LOVE YOU...

At Something to Celebrate we specialise in simple or extravagant balloon design to suit your needs. From 1 balloon to 1000... The sky’s the limit!!”

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www.something-to-celebrate.net62 Seaview Road, Wallasey, Wirral, CH45 4LB

T: 0151 630 5554

Special Personalised Valentines Cluster - £25 inc delivery

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE

home11_Somethingtocelebrate.indd 2 25/10/2011 15:04



Coming Soon

2011 sees the launch of Kruger Collectables, our fi rst collectable piece will be a limited edition Christmas star.

Engraved with the date and presented in a beautiful gift box this sterling silver

star will make an ideal gift to celebrate the festive season.

With the nights drawing in now

is the time to start thinking of

Christmas gifts, with rich jewelled

colours and sparkling cuts a

unique piece of jewellery set with

a stunning gemstone is just the

gift to make Christmas 2011 extra

special. Follow Gabor’s guide to

the hottest colours for this year.

We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend but

when it comes to coloured gemstones bold statement

jewellery adds glitz and glamour to that little black

dress and with a vast choice in colour and prices there

is a stone to suit everyone.

From palest pastels to neon brights a coloured

gemstone will defi nitely attract attention and in many

instances will be a fraction of the cost of a similar size

diamond. We have teamed up with our friends at

Wirral’s leading jewellery boutique Krugers to bring

you the hottest gems for the festive season. The

Kruger team actually boast their very own, dedicated

gemstone expert, Gabor Kigyossy. Gabor joined

the team in 2005 and with his passion for coloured

gemstones and a fl air for contemporary designs he is

responsible for many of the beautiful pieces currently

on display in the Wallasey showroom.

GemstoneHotlist

Christmas 2011



Wirral’s most exquisite hand made designer jewellery

Just arrived...Kruger Jewellers

34 Seaview Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH45 4LA

Telephone: 0151 639 4431 Email: [email protected]

Web: www.krugerjewellers.com

Pyrop Garnets ...are usually dark red, they have excellent durability making them suitable for all styles of jewellery.

Amethysts...come in many different shades of purple with blue or magenta fl ashes. They are very affordable, however they can be slightly brittle so should be treated with care.

Tourmalines...although available in a vast colour range grass and bottle green are the most affordable. Tourmalines are great stones for everyday wear.

Madeira Citrine ...(Treated quartz variety). The colour ranges from gold to burnt orange, well cut stones are really sparkly but they can be slightly brittle, making these stones perfect for a special occasion piece of jewellery.

Rutillated Quartz is created from fi ne golden titanium dioxide needles grown in to the host rock crystal, these gems are usually cut “en cabochon” but faceted stones are also available. They are hard and durable and a good idea for those wishing to create interesting, unusual jewellery.

Red spinels ...are a great substitute for the ever so rare and expensive rubies. They have very good hardness and durability with fantastic sparkle, making them suitable for every day wear.

Purple sapphires ...exist in all shades of purple from light lavender to mauve. They are the second hardest natural gemstone after diamonds which makes them excellent for everyday wear.

Tsavorites ...are a very bright and sparkly green garnet variety from East Africa. They are generally clearer than emeralds and more durable for everyday wear.

Spessartite garnets ...range from glowing orange hues in fanta to dark reddish orange. Bright and sparkly, like most garnets, their hardness and durability makes them suitable for any type of jewellery.

Grossularite garnets ...are the golden variety of the garnet group. Beautiful and sparkly when really well cut the only downfall is that it is rarely available in larger sizes.

If you are watching the pennies this Christmas take a look at these gemstones for great value gifts.

If you are looking for something really special then take a look at these gemstones for an unforgettable gift.

Bespoke gemstone jewellery can start from as little as £150 for a design in

silver, so even if you have a limited budget please

call in to view our current selection or call us on 0151

639 4431 to arrange a free design consultation and create your perfect

Christmas gift.

Because our jewellery is handmade on the premises

we can create a unique design to suit your budget

and are always delighted to talk through any ideas and

design preferences you may have.



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

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27 February 2012£32.50

StepsThe Ultimate Tour

4 April 2012 £35.00

Lee EvansRoadrunner2 - 4 November £30.00

QUOFEST 2011Status Quo, Roy Wood & Kim Wilde6 December £37.50

Duran DuranAll You Need Is Now Tour10 December £30.00/£40.00/£55.00

Paul McCartneyOn the Run20 December £50.00/£75.00/£95.00

One Direction15 January 2012£19.50/£27.50

Joe Bonamassa28 March 2012£30.00/£40.00/£50.00

IL DIVO8 April 2012£29.50/£45.00/£65.00

Diversity11 April 2012£21.50/£29.50

Blink 18212 July 2012£33.19

Michael McIntyre22 - 24 November 2012£35.00

Olly Murs19 February 2012£30.00

The Wanted24 February 2012£19.50/£27.50

The Australian Pink Floyd Show2 March 2012£29.50

The Stars From The Commitments16 March 2012£39.00/£42.50

Bill BaileyDandelion Mind14 November £29.50

George MichaelSymphonica: The Orchestral Tour30 November £51.00/£76.00/£91.00

JLSThe 4th Dimension Tour14 - 15 March 2012 £25.00/£32.50

Bryan Adams20th Anniversary Tour: Waking Up The Neighbours28 November £39.50

World Netball SeriesCompetitors from England, Australia, Jamaica, New Zealand & South Africa25 - 27 November £6.00 - £28.80

Street Cheer National Championships & UKCA Winter Open Championships20 November £10.00/£15.00 on day

WWE Presents RAW7 November£25.00/ £35.00/£45.00/£60.00

WWE Presents Smackdown8 November£25.00/ £35.00/£45.00/£60.00

SOLD OUT

Bringing you closer to the enterainment

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Arctic MonkeysPlus Very Special GuestsThe Vaccines9 November £29.50

Disney On Ice PresentsPrincesses & Heroes21 - 25 March 2012 Weekday £13.00 - £35.50Weekend £18.50 - £35.50

The Four Tops & The Temptationswith Special Guests Tavares & The Crystals27 March 2012 £40.00

2012 Premier League Darts26 April 2012 £20.00 Tiered Seats/

£35.00 Floor Seats

Reach To The Stars!3 April 2012

£15.00 - £27.50Family Tickets £50.00 -£78.00

4 - 5 February

2012£35.00/£42.50/

£65.00

Kasabian4 December£30.00

Radio City LiveFt. Jessie J, Dappy, Matt Cardle, Pixie Lott & more!2 December £25.00/£30.00/£70.00

The Saturdays3 December£26.50/£32.50

Tinie Tempah31 October

Alan CarrSpexy Beast25 - 26 October £30.00

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

SOLD OUT


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Sainsbury’s Upton has been Gok’d!

FASHION

The new debut collection from Gok Wan for TU has landed at Sainsbury’s Upton.If you’ve been in Sainsbury’s Upton recently you will have seen the fabulous new range from Gok Wan – Gok for TU! The collection which hit Upton earlier this month refl ects Gok’s philosophy of making women feel confi dent, stylish and positive about their bodies, whatever their budget, size or shape.

Speaking about the launch of his collection Gok Wan said “I am so unbelievably excited that women across the Wirral will be able to access my debut collection. I want women to fl irt, fl aunt and celebrate their curves.”

Geraldine Higgins, Sainsbury’s Head of Womenswear Buying said, “Since announcing our partnership with Gok earlier this year we’ve been overwhelmed with positive reactions from our customers and colleagues. Everyone across the Wirral can now be Gok’d!”

Gok for TU is a capsule collection that combines key basics with strong statement pieces – all designed with shape enhancing properties. The colour pallet refl ects the autumn season; rich red, teal and terracotta are mixed with statement black. Two signature prints – Cherry Blossom and Oriental Floral – decorate garments inside and out.

Sainsbury’s in Upton is one of 200 stores nationwide to be lucky enough to get Gok’d! So come on ladies what you waiting for?!


www.viewwirral.cOm 21

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

All ticket purchases are subject to a ‘per ticket’ booking fee and a handling fee. Tickets are subject to availability.

NOW THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT...

SCAN

THIS W

ITH A

Q

R CO

DE R

EAD

ER A

PP!

27 February 2012£32.50

StepsThe Ultimate Tour

4 April 2012 £35.00

Lee EvansRoadrunner2 - 4 November £30.00

QUOFEST 2011Status Quo, Roy Wood & Kim Wilde6 December £37.50

Duran DuranAll You Need Is Now Tour10 December £30.00/£40.00/£55.00

Paul McCartneyOn the Run20 December £50.00/£75.00/£95.00

One Direction15 January 2012£19.50/£27.50

Joe Bonamassa28 March 2012£30.00/£40.00/£50.00

IL DIVO8 April 2012£29.50/£45.00/£65.00

Diversity11 April 2012£21.50/£29.50

Blink 18212 July 2012£33.19

Michael McIntyre22 - 24 November 2012£35.00

Olly Murs19 February 2012£30.00

The Wanted24 February 2012£19.50/£27.50

The Australian Pink Floyd Show2 March 2012£29.50

The Stars From The Commitments16 March 2012£39.00/£42.50

Bill BaileyDandelion Mind14 November £29.50

George MichaelSymphonica: The Orchestral Tour30 November £51.00/£76.00/£91.00

JLSThe 4th Dimension Tour14 - 15 March 2012 £25.00/£32.50

Bryan Adams20th Anniversary Tour: Waking Up The Neighbours28 November £39.50

World Netball SeriesCompetitors from England, Australia, Jamaica, New Zealand & South Africa25 - 27 November £6.00 - £28.80

Street Cheer National Championships & UKCA Winter Open Championships20 November £10.00/£15.00 on day

WWE Presents RAW7 November£25.00/ £35.00/£45.00/£60.00

WWE Presents Smackdown8 November£25.00/ £35.00/£45.00/£60.00

SOLD OUT


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Arctic MonkeysPlus Very Special GuestsThe Vaccines9 November £29.50

Disney On Ice PresentsPrincesses & Heroes21 - 25 March 2012 Weekday £13.00 - £35.50Weekend £18.50 - £35.50

The Four Tops & The Temptationswith Special Guests Tavares & The Crystals27 March 2012 £40.00

2012 Premier League Darts26 April 2012 £20.00 Tiered Seats/

£35.00 Floor Seats

Reach To The Stars!3 April 2012

£15.00 - £27.50Family Tickets £50.00 -£78.00

4 - 5 February

2012£35.00/£42.50/

£65.00

Kasabian4 December£30.00

Radio City LiveFt. Jessie J, Dappy, Matt Cardle, Pixie Lott & more!2 December £25.00/£30.00/£70.00

The Saturdays3 December£26.50/£32.50

Tinie Tempah31 October

Alan CarrSpexy Beast25 - 26 October £30.00

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

SOLD OUT


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For this, our special ‘Homes’ edition we have been

allowed to take a peek at one of West Wirral’s most

exquisite redevelopment projects.

This ‘labour of love’ which is home to well known

local couple Bob Owens and Bernie Dunleavey,

represents a triumphant collaboration between

this visionary couple and some of the regions most

talented design, build and restoration experts…

CountryCountryRevival



Unique RetreatSuch a special building demanded a special approach. Together, the Owens and their architects created a stunningly sympathetic design for the extension of the property; building on the existing style to create a seamless link between the old and the new, whilst giving the family everything they wanted from a dream home.

The Owen’s drafted in a team of specialist craftsmen to help with some of the more detailed aspects of the project – no detail was left to chance and the whole project was sympathetically extended and restored by utilising a clever mix of state-of-the-art technology and age old techniques.

As the whole dwelling was constructed using local sandstone, the new gable wall was re-built using existing materials and all of the external cladding was fi nished using local, reclaimed stone. The painstaking and highly skilled job was fulfi lled by Barnston based stone masons Stone Heaven. John O’Grady and his team are true artisans and specialise in reclaiming stone and re-working it as well as all aspects of architectural stonemasonry. Even the stunning new fi replace in the main living area was built from reclaimed stone, and what a magnifi cent centrepiece it makes.

Bob and Bernie fi rst stumbled upon the rather tired and gloomy looking Hill Farm a couple of years ago. The landmark property, which sits alongside the main Thurstaton crossroads (now roundabout) dates back to the late 1800’s and originally stood in around 100 acres of working farmland. The site was still home to herds of cattle and pigs until just a few years ago when it was bequeathed (in the absence of any living relatives), by its former owner, to a loyal farmworker and favoured charity.

The couple could immediately see the potential of the property, with Bernie claiming an almost ‘Love at First Sight’ moment. They took a huge risk and put in an offer, knowing that if they failed to get the planning permission they needed,

the property could become a bit of a white elephant.

With one failed attempt at planning behind them, the couple decided to enlist the help of acclaimed local architects, Stephen and Sally Bromilow. Husband and wife team, the Bromilows could immediately see the potential of the property and helped Bob and Bernie realise their dream of creating a unique family home.

The key thing for Bernie and Bob was the absolute need to increase the size of the property signifi cantly – by an additional 50% to be precise. Undaunted, the Bromilow’s set about negotiating the complex planning system for them and 12 weeks later received the green light to move forward with the re-development.



oddevelopmentsdesign&build

Bob OwensHill Farm, Thurstaston Road, Thurstaston, Wirral CH61 0HQM: 07703 101559 T: 0151 648 [email protected]

The Finishing TouchesAs the owner of super-stylish homes and fashion mecca, The Front Room in West Kirby, Bernie really came into her own when adding those all important fi nishing touches to the house.

From the stunning tumbled limestone fl oor (Dijon – by Mandarin Stone) to the exquisite bespoke kitchen fi tted by Bobby himself, the fi nal look is nothing less than magnifi cent.

Growing up on The Kings Road in London meant

Bernie was submerged in a melting pot of different infl uences all of which have impacted on her own unique style. From Vivienne Westwood to her life-time love affair with the Designers Guild Shop, Bernie’s terrifi c eye for style and obsession for detail can be seen throughout the house.

With show-stopping lanterns, super-cool cushions and stunning objet d’art throughout the comfortable somewhat ‘French’ inspired interior, its no wonder that Bernie, Bob, their family and of course Gorgeous George (the to-die-for dog) plan on making Hill Farm ‘home’ for years to come.

Wonderful WindowsThe windows and doors also played a huge part in this projects – it was essential the new units refl ected the age and character of the property whilst keeping up with modern day standards. Liverpool based specialists M and R joinery were appointed as the key contractors for this aspect of the development because of their unrivalled expertise in the fi eld. The team, who have worked on a number of high profi le historic projects across the UK, including a stint working alongside TV’s Sarah Beeny on her popular restoration programme, are sash window and doors specialist, so Hill Farm was just their type of project.

The existing windows were old and fairly innocuous brown UPVC units which really did not sit well with the character of the building. The M and R team made all the windows and door to measure and designed them to be 100% in keeping with the style of the house.

The fi nal box sash windows represent the fi nest you can buy, combining historic detail with modern day standards for quality and style to last. Completed with a high quality factory paint fi nish (Bernie chose Farrow and Ball Bone, which the team matched perfectly) every item was sprayed prior to installation for the ultimate fi nish and effi ciency.



When we were approached by Bob and Bernie to look at the extension and refurbishment of their Thurstaston farmhouse, Hill Farm, we thought what an exciting and interesting project to be involved with, and what a fantastic opportunity to work on a local historic landmark.

When, at our first meeting they told us they wanted to more than double the size of the existing property, as well as construct a large double garage in the extensive grounds, we thought it may be tricky to achieve, but we were well up for the challenge.

They had been advised previously, that Planning Permission would not be granted for their proposals, however, their vision and determination meant that they were undeterred, and so asked Bromilow Architects Ltd. to step in and help them achieve their dream.

We were very pleased that a previous client had recommended us to them, and were sure that we could negotiate the complex Planning system for them.

Hill farm is located within the Greenbelt, and so we had to call on our previous experience of achieving greenbelt approvals to help us out. As a practice we also have a very good working relationship with Wirral Borough Council Planning Department,

and so lots of pre-application discussions were had with them. Some encouraging, and some not so, but we remained focused on achieving Bob & Bernie’s vision.

We needed to approach the design of the proposal differently than a standard house extension, which Planning Policy usually requires to be set back from the main existing house. Due to the large increase, we felt that the building should not look like it had been extended, but appear to be a larger version of it’s original self, and remain looking like the stone farmhouse that it always had been for 200 years.

We worked through this design approach alongside Bob and Bernie during our design sessions with them in their sunny garden. We always have initial design and briefing sessions with clients very much involved, usually around their dining table during the early stages of a project, with pencils, marker pens, and lots of tracing paper! These enjoyable sessions help us to get to know clients better, we learn what their likes and dislikes are, their style and tastes become evident early on. This method enables clients to have a bigger input into the design process, and feel more involved. It also prevents abortive design work, which sometimes happens when initial concepts are drawn back in the office

without the client being there.

Because of the large additions that were required, we needed to call on our knowledge of the recently updated Permitted Development legislation. This is when limited development is permitted without the requirement for Full Planning Approval. This small allowance, as well as the main Greenbelt policy for house extensions, enabled us to achieve the large additions required.

We were delighted when the Planning Approvals came through after a very smooth consultation process, and Bob & Bernie were thrilled that they could now make a start on the building work.

A very considered and well thought through solution, time invested during the crucial design process and an indepth knowledge of Planning Policy and Processes are what have made this a very successful project. Great clients who knew what they wanted to achieve, had the confidence to pursue it and who were receptive to the design process made this project a joy to work on.

Together, we have created a fabulous family home which is both modern and contemporary, yet retains the essential character that makes this historical farmhouse the landmark building that it is.Th

e A

rch

itect

s Vie

w....we remained focused on achieving Bob & Bernie’s vision.



Sash Window SpecialistsBespoke DoorsStaircases

Manufacturing Facility & Head OfficeUnit H2 Prescot Trading Centre

Oliver Lyme Road, Prescot, Merseyside L34 2SHTel: 0151 426 8435 Fax: 0151 426 8435

[email protected]

Reclaimed stone beautifully reworked or preserved by dedicated artisans using

ecologically sound methods and materials

J O’Grady’s, Station Road, Barnston, Wirral CH61 1DG0151 648 6486 www.stoneheaven.co.uk

Call us now to discuss your ideas and we

can help you make them into a reality.

T: 0151 625 0942

E: office@bromilowarchitects.

co.uk

W: www.bromilowarchitects

.co.uk

Helping you get

the most out of

your property.



RusticRenaissance

angel Heart / Urbane £3.00

Doorstop / inspirations £5.99

Bloomsbury Bed linen

- Double Duvet with 2

Pillowcases - linea at House

of Fraser £80.00

Floral lampshade m&S

Flowers - m&S Simply Food Heswall

£4.00 per bunch.

Filigree Hurricane ethereal by

linea House of Fraser £20.00

cushion - gordale £7.95

ceramic table lamp by linea

House of Fraser £35.00

ceramic table lamp by linea

House of Fraser £35.00

/red checked Heart - inspirations £1.99

HOme Picture - inspirations £4.99

metal Heart - inspirations £9.99

Heart lantern - inspirations £6.49

Kilner Jars - gordale £8.99

metal Jug - inspirations £10.50

Tea cosy - gordale £7.99



Blinds By Windowshades

Contemporary and des ign led home and g i f tware for a l l .

We a im to br ing you un ique g i f ts a nd h omewa re f rom loca l ind ep end ent a r t ist s as wel l as comp a nies f rom a l l over th e wor ld .

Urbane , 7 The Row, Market S treet , Hoy lake , Wirra l , Merseys ide CH47 3BB t : 0151 632 0548

*not to be used on any sa le i tems

W W W . U R B A N E H O Y L A K E . C O . U K

%OFF10

"

"

unt i l th e end o f November 2011*

Showcasing our Blinds and Awnings, with a stunning array of natural, textured weaves, sumptuous fabrics and bold statement colours, our window treatments offer an exciting

source of inspiration for interiors and exteriors.

0151 343 1144 or visit our showroom - opening hours: Mon - Fri 9-5 and Saturdays 10-4.

Unit 11, Claremont Buildings, Old Clatterbridge Road, Bebington, Wirral CH63 4JB

www.blindsbywindowshades.info

Call for a home visit on:

5 Thingwall Road, Irby, Wirral, CH61 3UA | Tel 0151 648 5564 | Fax 0151 648 1033 | Open Mon to Sat 8.30am to 5pm

Wirral Wetrooms is Wirral’s leading designer, supplier and

installer of bespoke wetrooms.

Wetroom installations introduce a sense of spaciousness and style.

We can create a room tailor-made to your requirements.

Wirral Wetrooms will transform your bathroom into your own personal haven.

Wirral Wetrooms specialise in bespoke wetrooms and bathrooms

Wirral Wetrooms have a reputation for providing top class service visit our website to read just a few testimonials from satisfi ed customers:

www.wirralwetroom.co.uk

WE DESIGN,SUPPLY, FIT & INSTALLJUST CALL...

VIEW_wirralwet2011FP.indd 1 25/10/2011 18:00VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 28 25/10/2011 19:49


5 Thingwall Road, Irby, Wirral, CH61 3UA | Tel 0151 648 5564 | Fax 0151 648 1033 | Open Mon to Sat 8.30am to 5pm

Wirral Wetrooms is Wirral’s leading designer, supplier and

installer of bespoke wetrooms.

Wetroom installations introduce a sense of spaciousness and style.

We can create a room tailor-made to your requirements.

Wirral Wetrooms will transform your bathroom into your own personal haven.

Wirral Wetrooms specialise in bespoke wetrooms and bathrooms

Wirral Wetrooms have a reputation for providing top class service visit our website to read just a few testimonials from satisfi ed customers:

www.wirralwetroom.co.uk

WE DESIGN,SUPPLY, FIT & INSTALLJUST CALL...

VIEW_wirralwet2011FP.indd 1 25/10/2011 18:00VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 29 25/10/2011 19:49

Su� r StyleSuper Showroom

Celebrating 40 years in business this coming year, mother and daughter design team Vanessa and Dominique are delighted that James James Kitchens is still the Wirral’s premier kitchen showroom. The girls have continued to transform this long established business into one of the industries most acclaimed kitchen showrooms and they have received recognition for their designs and achievements nationwide.



Top UK Kitchen supremo Dominique

McLaughlin shares her top 3 trends for

this seasons most stylish kitchens...

TOPTRENDS

Neff Slide-Away ovenNeff recently launched its innovative sliding oven door system that has taken the kitchen industry by storm. This unique door facility fi ts smoothly under the oven to give you plenty of room, as well as better access to the oven’s interior - ensuring an easy and fl exible approach to your cooking

needs.

Pull-out larder.No kitchen is complete without this full height pull-out larder in chrome. By opening the door of your larder, the internal mechanism rolls the internal shelving forward providing excellent access to all your kitchen ingredients. No more bending and lifting required!

Franke Rolux Pull-out tap with LED lights.This new single lever tap from Franke is a stunning design piece. The pull-out nozzle allows ease of use and rinsing whilst the LED lights give it a futuristic edge!

Award Winning ApproachFresh from Dominique’s 2010 victory at the KBB Review Kitchen Designer of The Year and the Neff Master Partner Design Awards, the team have gone on to be shortlisted for best UK showroom at this years Neff Master Partner Awards – one of the industry’s highest accolades.

And when you step inside their recently refurbished showroom, its easy to see why….

Showroom ShowcaseSuper-sleek lines and stunning displays sit exquisitely alongside state-of-the-art appliances and fabulous, on-trend accessories. Each display has been

beautifully presented, allowing clients to match the styles effortlessly with their own design ideas and lifestyle needs. Every inch of the bright airy space oozes designer style and leading edge quality; and when combined with the design talent and outstanding customer service levels across the business, it’s easy to see why James James is fast becoming one of the UK’s leading kitchen design specialists.

Brand LeadersWith kitchen designs to suit every taste and style, James James sells an impressive selection of contemporary German kitchen brands including Rational and Alno, as well as their own bespoke traditional ranges. Customers can choose from a vast range of kitchen collections.

Alongside the comprehensive design and installation service, the team also offer all aspects of building work, plumbing, electrics and even design services including everything from bespoke lighting to complimentary wallpapers and tiles.

‘We understand that a kitchen is a big investment,’ commented Dominique, ‘so we use our 40 years experience to guide your clients through the whole process, with many clients wanting us to design whole kitchen and dining areas, so getting it right is absolutely critical for the whole family.’

Bespoke Designs – For any BudgetWith such a superb showroom, cutting-edge brands and award winning designs, it is easy to see why many potential clients assume that a James James kitchen would simply be out of their budget. Dominique says that this is a common misconception, when in reality the team can create a beautiful kitchen for most budgets and are used to working closely with clients to achieve just this.

‘We really love the challenge of meeting clients requirements and creating original and functional spaces in budget’ said Dominique. ‘We can create a really stunning kitchen from around £10,000 upwards, and we won’t be knowingly undersold on quality or price!’

So what is next for our dream team?With further showroom developments promised for 2012 and an ever changing range of stunning kitchens, accessories and appliances on offer, there really has never been a better opportunity to have your kitchen designed by the UK’s best design talent and installed by their team of time served installation experts.



19-21 Grange Road | West Kirby | Wirral CH48 4DY | Tel: 0151 625 9329 | Fax: 0151 625 9459

[email protected] | www.jamesjameskitchens.com

Dominique McLaughlin - UK Design Award for Kitchens 2010

Stylish Kitchens By Design

Jamesjames-viewhome11.indd 1 25/10/2011 14:15VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 32 25/10/2011 19:49


19-21 Grange Road | West Kirby | Wirral CH48 4DY | Tel: 0151 625 9329 | Fax: 0151 625 9459

[email protected] | www.jamesjameskitchens.com

Dominique McLaughlin - UK Design Award for Kitchens 2010

Stylish Kitchens By Design

Jamesjames-viewhome11.indd 1 25/10/2011 14:15

w w w . v i e w w i r r a l . c O m

Baloona Stool - Urbane £92.00

Herdy mugs - Urbane £10.50 each

Hot Oven glove and Brew cosy -

gordale £3.75 & £5.99

cafetiere m&S

Hot ideas for aC� l Kitchenicona by Delonghi Kettle - House

of Fraser £74.99

Joseph Joseph nest of 6 Bowls -

Urbane £18.00

Kmix by Kenwood Boutique Toaster

- House of Fraser £44.99

Plastic Utensils m&S

Storage Jars -

Sugar m&S

Storage Jars - Tea m&S

vinatge red Scales -

gordale £29.99

Taylor’s eye witness

Sloping coloured Knife

Block - Urbane £30.00

Storage Jars -coffee m&S

Universal Knife Block - Urbane £28.50

Knives not included

Joseph Joseph Hands On Salad

Bowl - Urbane £30.00

Joseph Joseph advance index

chopping oard Set - Urbane £44.00



SELECTED FLOORINGBETTER THAN HALF PRICE

FAUS Group products for wall and ceiling coverings are specially designed to offer natural wood quality improving their resistance. They are cleaned more easily and hence maintenance is not required. They are as warm and decorative as wood, but they keep their gloss and beauty, just like the fi rst day they were installed. PERFIL DECOR’s installation is extremely easy; therefore, special tools and techniques are not required.

SELECTED

FLOORING

SQ. METRE£6.99NEW

RANGE

WALL

PANELS

NEW RANGEWALLPANELS

NEWRANGE OFWALL PANELS

142 Banks Road • West Kirby • Wirral • Merseyside • CH48 OQBTel: 0151 625 3334 Fax: 0151 625 3334

House of Hilbre is the ultimate choice for personal service, value and tradition. We look forward to seeing you over a cup of freshly brewed coffee without obligation.

The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it

Oscar Wilde

Our varied stock enables customers to purchase gifts for weddings, retirement, christening or perhaps something special for a loved one.

Remodelling unwanted items has become hugely popular, whilst repairs and valuations

are a significant part of House of Hilbre.

With dedicated personal attention by the proprietor and friendly staff you can be

assured of a warm welcome in our comfortable and elegant surroundings.

Why not take time out and discover House of Hilbre’s fine selection of antique and modernjewellery and silverware.

ur varied stock enables customers to purchase gifts for weddings, retirement, christening or perhaps something special


advert.indd 1 25/10/11 10:41:36VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 34 25/10/2011 19:50


SELECTED FLOORINGBETTER THAN HALF PRICE

FAUS Group products for wall and ceiling coverings are specially designed to offer natural wood quality improving their resistance. They are cleaned more easily and hence maintenance is not required. They are as warm and decorative as wood, but they keep their gloss and beauty, just like the fi rst day they were installed. PERFIL DECOR’s installation is extremely easy; therefore, special tools and techniques are not required.

SELECTED

FLOORING

SQ. METRE£6.99NEW

RANGE

WALL

PANELS

NEW RANGEWALLPANELS

NEWRANGE OFWALL PANELS

142 Banks Road • West Kirby • Wirral • Merseyside • CH48 OQBTel: 0151 625 3334 Fax: 0151 625 3334

House of Hilbre is the ultimate choice for personal service, value and tradition. We look forward to seeing you over a cup of freshly brewed coffee without obligation.

The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it

Oscar Wilde

Our varied stock enables customers to purchase gifts for weddings, retirement, christening or perhaps something special for a loved one.


are a significant part of House of Hilbre.

With dedicated personal attention by the proprietor and friendly staff you can be

assured of a warm welcome in our comfortable and elegant surroundings.

Why not take time out and discover House of Hilbre’s fine selection of antique and modernjewellery and silverware.

advert.indd 1 25/10/11 10:41:36 VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 35 25/10/2011 19:50


In this edition, we have teamed up with one of Wirral’s most established and respected kitchen design and installation experts in the form of Mayfair Kitchens in Bebington. We have picked their brains to help bring you a run down on the latest trends, some top tips and ideas for THE most important room in the house…..

Hot Trends Open plan, contemporary kitchens

have been with us for some time

now and this trend is gaining

momentum. Once a private place,

the 2011 kitchen is a public space

where people can socialise and

entertain with friends and family.

Breakfast bars and islands will

continue to make centre stage, as

will sleek and streamlined kitchens.

Handless kitchen units will grow in

popularity, especially curved units

and matt worktops are set to be very

much en vogue this year.

For those of us who love a retro feel,

the shabby chic look is still a popular

choice and the traditional shaker

style option can now be found in a

variety of more modern fi nishes.

When it comes to colour, white and

ivory kitchens will remain popular, but

this year has also seen an increase

in stronger colours that make a real

impact. Bold, vibrant colours found

in hi-gloss units, glass splashbacks,

and worktops, offer infi nite options

for creating a truly individual kitchen.

Green is seen as a rising star in

kitchens, but blue, particularly pale

blue where it conveys a 1950’s look

with a modern feel is said to be a

growing favourite.

Granite and solid wood worktops

will continue to be popular for those

that can afford it, but there are a

growing number of alternatives in

the form of engineered stone and

composites. For fl ooring, ceramic

tiles, high quality vinyl fl ooring, and

natural stone are good options, but

reclaimed wooden fl ooring could

well lead the way.

Designed For Life Here at Mayfair. We believe the

design is the fi rst key element to

achieve.

Its ironic but a poorly designed

kitchen and a well designed kitchen

generally cost about the same.

You should spend as much

time as necessary working with

your designer to work out an

aesthetically pleasing and practical

layout which suits you, your family

and your house.

Quality Counts The quality of units, worktops and

appliances vary wildly, but it is

always worth investing in quality to

get a superb fi nish and a kitchen

that will last – we have kitchens we

installed over 25 years ago that still

look great and function effi ciently.

As master dealers for both Aga and

Neff, we have the benefi t of working

with the best in the business, but we

can also advise on other leading

brands to work within your particular

scheme.

Finally – fi tting is a key element

for consideration. All of our fi tters

are craftsmen who have been

employed with the company for a

minimum of 10 years – they know

their art and it shows!

HOME

It’s the heart of the home and these days more

likely to double as a living area, meeting place or in my case a work space…..it is no longer acceptable

to have a functional kitchen, they need to be

fabulous!. Creating the perfect multi-functional

masterpiece can be daunting – so much

choice from traditional to technical; retro to radical,

your kitchen needs to work for you on a personal and

practical level.

Marvelous

Mayfair



Mayfair House, The Village, Bebington, Cheshire CH63 7PW

Phone: 0151 644 9100 Fax: 0151 643 1041Email: [email protected]

www.mayfairkitchens.co.uk

Charles Yorke

Hacker

Prentice

Aga

Neff

For inspirational ideas for your kitchen visit our showroom today or view our collections online.



D e s i g n e d f o r l i v i n g .

92a Liverpool Road North, Maghull, Liverpool L31 2HN

T: 0151531 1597 F: 0151 520 1953 E: [email protected]

www.bespoke-bathrooms.co.uk

102 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 0RE

T: 0151 625 1119 F: 0151 625 1156 E: [email protected]


I n d u l g e R e l a x C r e a t e

V i s i t W i r r a l ’ s m o s t e x c l u s i v e K i t c h e n a n d B a t h r o o m s h o w r o o m t o d a y t o s e e t h e r e g i o n s w i d e s t r a n g e o f e x c l u s i v e d e s i g n e r

b r a n d s , i n c l u d i n g V i l l e r o y & B o c h , J a c u z z i , A q a t a a n d B u r g b a d .

R e c e i v e a f r e e p l a n n i n g c o n s u l t a t i o n a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l C A D d e s i g n a n d s t a r t t u r n i n g y o u r d e s i g n e r d r e a m s i n t o r e a l i t y

. . . the next generation of showering

Designer Bathroom Trend 1:

Freestanding Baths

Make an instant style statement

in your bathroom with a gorgeous

freestanding bath. Nothing screams

‘classy’ more than one of these

luxury items, especially an original

Victorian bath with clawed feet.

Alternatively, the top bathroom

manufacturers have all reproduced

their own more contemporary

versions, allowing you to make a

real style statement. Check out

the amazing designer range at

Bespoke’s West Kirby showroom.

These beautiful baths take bathing

to a whole new level!


Sauna Showers Nothing earns an impressed raised

eyebrow more than a home

sauna in a stylish contemporary

or traditional wooden design.

Bathrooms are instantly transformed

into a pamper zone where you can

sweat out the toxins accumulated

at during your busy social lives,

lose weight and gain more energy.

Saunas are also great for easing

muscular aches and pains so

are also ideal for the day after

you danced the night away (or

drunkenly fell off your Monolo

Blahniks and sprained your ankle!).


Overfl ow Baths To get a real look of envy from your

girlfriends, install a fabulous overfl ow

bath, and instantly create a

designer bathroom to die for. These

either have special fi lters for the

water to fl ow down at the top, or

have a separate outer bath so the

water can go over the top of the

one you’re in. Sheer heaven, and

the best way to recreate the effects

of a spa at home.


Luxurious FlooringTake luxury to a whole new level

and give your bathroom a real

Hollywood feel by choosing show

stopping tiles and fl oor coverings.

Of course, designer bathroom tiles,

surfaces and fl oors are one of the

most important aspects of a new

bathroom, and one of the best

ways to give your existing bathroom

a new look. The professionally-

qualifi ed bathroom designers at

Bespoke can help you to visualise

every single aspect of your

bathroom including luxury bathroom

tiles, surfaces and mosaics


Impress with Bespoke Brands!If you love designer labels, why not

take designer style all the way and

create a truly remarkable bathroom

experience. Bespoke Bathrooms

stock some of the worlds leading

designer bathroom brands and are

Wirral’s exclusive stockists of leading

brands including the iconic Villeroy

and Boch and Burgbad ranges.

So, if you are looking for the ultimate designer bathroom or kitchen, let Bespoke Bathrooms and Kitchens help you turn your designer dreams into reality.

onif you follow all the latest fashion trends with your outfi ts, why not do the same with your

home? cool interior design allows homeowners to really show their style, and a badly

designed bathroom can do as much damage to your reputation as a well-designed one

can enhance it. So don’t take any chances, follow the Bespoke Bathroom guide to the latest

designer bathroom trends and make sure you stay a leader not a loser in the style stakes.

trend

HOME



D e s i g n e d f o r l i v i n g .

92a Liverpool Road North, Maghull, Liverpool L31 2HN

T: 0151531 1597 F: 0151 520 1953 E: [email protected]


102 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 0RE

T: 0151 625 1119 F: 0151 625 1156 E: [email protected]


I n d u l g e R e l a x C r e a t e

V i s i t W i r r a l ’ s m o s t e x c l u s i v e K i t c h e n a n d B a t h r o o m s h o w r o o m t o d a y t o s e e t h e r e g i o n s w i d e s t r a n g e o f e x c l u s i v e d e s i g n e r

b r a n d s , i n c l u d i n g V i l l e r o y & B o c h , J a c u z z i , A q a t a a n d B u r g b a d .

R e c e i v e a f r e e p l a n n i n g c o n s u l t a t i o n a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l C A D d e s i g n a n d s t a r t t u r n i n g y o u r d e s i g n e r d r e a m s i n t o r e a l i t y

. . . the next generation of showering



CityLivingOne Park West – a jewel in Grosvenor’s crownWith the cloud of economic stringency hanging overhead there could be an investor’s silver lining shimmering just over the water in the striking form of Grosvenor Development’s award-winning residential development - One Park West.

The Argentinian Architect Cesar Pelli, best known for the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpa and Canary Wharf Tower in London’s docklands. He worked with the master plan of Liverpool’s giant Paradise Project to create a design that fitted with the proposal for the rest of the site. One Park West is the first Pelli designed building in the UK outside London. And the developer with the vision? Grosvenor Developments.

“We wanted to create a modern, striking building. A memorable place to live, with exceptional views on a wonderful park. I hope it will become part of the heritage of this amazing city.” Cesar Pelli - Architect

With an investment of £1 billion and 8 years of hard work Grosvenor’s Liverpool One was opened in 2008 – the state-of-the art , crowning glory of a City celebrating its well-earned title of Capital of Culture.

At the heart of this, Europe’s largest City Centre regeneration project, lies One Park West, the landmark residential building neatly embraced by a stunning retail centre, the beautiful Chavasse Park, the business district and the UNESCO World Heritage waterfront.

And there’s no shortage of people wanting a piece of the investment action. Apartment sales that continue to buck the national trend coupled with a phenomenally buoyant rental market have more than justified the confidence of Grosvenor Developments, a company known for the highly selective nature of its investments.



Three years on we speak to Guy Butler,

Projects Director for Grosvenor Britain &

Ireland, to discover what lay behind the

almost crystal ball vision that has led to

the development’s resounding success.

How long have you been in property and what, in a nutshell has it taught you? I have been in property for 15 years and time and again, the old cliché of location location location rings true - now, in testing financial times, more than ever.

How does the completed Liverpool One and One Park West development rate in terms of Grosvenor’s perceived legacy? The project is an exemplar for urban regeneration and communities, and therefore it is used worldwide as an example of what can be achieved and what should be achieved by the company around the world. It is Grosvenor at it’s highest level.

Liverpool has the greatest number of listed buildings outside London - what does your development add to that? Urban grain is about a mix of old and new buildings sitting together in harmony! By selecting over 30 of the world’s best architects to work on Liverpool ONE means that the projects sits comfortably with the existing built environment.

How does it make you feel to be part of Liverpool’s renaissance? Proud and attached - so much so I intend to stay in Liverpool for long after the end of the project!

How do outside investors view Liverpool now? In the same light they look at other cities outside of London. They did not do this before.

What would be your top three reasons for investing in Liverpool and more particularly One Park West right now?

1. Demand from tenants. An independent report was issued in the last few days saying there is a shortage in the 100’s of city centre apartments to rent.

2. Quality of stock. Grosvenor built the space to a good quality standard and specification, and Laing O’Rourke built it well. It will last!

3. Price. The space is currently cheaper than you can build it for. What is there not to like!

Pretentious though it may sound, do you feel that your predominance of individual investors at One Park West as oppose to block investment contribute to the existing eclectic international mix that Liverpool already thrives on? We did not allow block investors to buy in OPW because we wanted a good mix, but also, we wanted to give the building the best chance of success in terms of management, payment of service charge, maintenance and so on. The fact we end up with nice people living here is a by product which is great to have!

One Park West is one of the most popular addresses in Liverpool City Centre. With stunning views over the waterfront, the park or the city, it sits in a prime location where residents can take advantage of everything a buzzing cosmopolitan city has to offer.

Secure parking, security cameras, video entry phone from which you can call the concierge on duty 24/7, all contribute to making it a safe and relaxing haven in the midst of what is now hailed as one of the most vibrant cities in the country.

Whether you’re partying, dining quietly at one of Liverpool’s fine restaurants, taking in a show or a concert or simply relaxing with a glass of something on the private residents’ terrace watching the world, and the boats, come and go, One Park West represents a quality of city living second to none.

And with the beautiful Chavasse Park on your doorstep and a superbly equipped gym in the building, the picture is complete.

And what better way to see for yourself than to visit one of the stunning show apartments designed by Wirral’s international interior designers Kingston Shaw Interiors, featured in Andrew Martin’s top 100 designers worldwide.

For sales and lettings call Kingston Shaw Residential on 0151 232 3333 or [email protected]. Visit our website www.oneparkwest.co.uk

Location, Location.

Liverpool radio station Juice FM has announced a

£1.1m move to One Park West as part of their plans for

expansion. The station will move 30 full time staff as well

as freelance producers and presenters to a unit on the

first floor of the building along The Strand, joining the

24 hour gym and Giant Cycle Store as Grosvenor’s latest

commercial tenant.

Attention grabbing details in the

studio, one, two and three bed

apartments include contemporary

kitchens with high gloss finish and

touch-open cabinet doors, Hansgrohe

Raindance showers, chrome fittings,

ceramic tiling and stone shelving.

STOP PRESSGuy Butler Interview


CreativeCurtain

Image courtesy of Zoffany - Perian Tulip Wallpaper

ChangingRoomswith The Creative Curtain Company



The creative curtain company is celebrating its third birthday this October and what an exquisite array of curtain fabrics, wallpapers and other fresh and unique splendours for the home are hidden inside.

we all have our own individual tastes when it comes to how we style our interiors but inspiration is never far to fi nd at Kim and Pat’s beautiful shop. From the moment you step

• In house work room - All sewing, fi tting and upholstery is completed onsite

• All work is personally overseen to ensure every job is completed to the highest standard• Beautiful shop with stunning materials

and unique designs.

0151 651 201056 Christchurch Road, Oxton Village,

Wirral, CH43 [email protected]

www.creativecurtaincompany.co.uk

Nestled away in the delightful village of Oxton lies one of the Wirral’s best kept secrets........

The Creative Curtain Company are also suppliers of the following brands:Cole&Son, Casamance, Camengo, Sahco and Pierre Frey.

çCole & Son - Fornasetti Collection Room Settings - Tema e Variazioni 77-1001

êèTie backs and Poles – Wemyss and Houles –

Erolia detail and tr. Eolia

inside cushions, art, glistening tie backs all grabble for your attention and it’s hard not to be swept away into a world of contemporary style with a very vintage twist, in this elegant visually appealing shop.

The friendly and personal service provided by Kim and Pat is outstanding and each design is individual to client’s bespoke tastes. with an in house work room all sewing and fi tting is completed onsite so that the girls can personally oversea every job and ensure it is right for each client. The

girls make the perfect team with Kim being the artistic one and Pat providing the practical oversight.

Strong european infl uences throughout their lives have given the girls an enviable portfolio. From designing every single detail of a stunning london apartment refurbishment to high end property developments in manchester, all working to a budget, the girls have demonstrated passion and attention to detail in everything they do.

They offer beautiful high end fabrics and materials which rival anything else out there. This and their unique style and intellect in interior design mean you can be assured you are getting the very best.

The girls also have some fabulous unusual wallpaper, wall art and cushions in store, so why resist any longer, pop down to see the girls and be inspired by a range of culture and high end fabrics which includes infl uences from around the world and make sure your home refl ects your unique style.

T E

CREATIVE CURTAIN COMPANYCREATIVE CURTAIN CCREATIVE CURTAIN C

Image courtesy of Andrew Martin

HOME



Autumn Leaves Vectorby DragonArt

Creator : DragonArtdragonartz.wordpress.com

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/us/







Embrace Autumn...

m a g a z i n e m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e

Now the summer has

finally drawn to a

close, October is a

fantastic time to start

preparing your garden

for the coming autumn

months. In this edition

the super-knowledgeable

experts from Gordale

offer up some fantastic

help and advice to

make sure your garden

is ready for the season!

With...

Whilst the summer may grab all of the headlines for its lush vegetation

and bright, vibrant fl owers, you’d be forgiven for thinking that autumn

can be a little, well, drab. But you would be wrong; autumn can also

offer up its own unique, beautiful colour pallet and through some clever

planting you can really begin to embrace this. Head to Gordale for an

amazing selection of deciduous trees and shrubs such as acers. They

provide brilliant autumn colours from bark, berries and foliage whilst

plants such as skimmias can also add some dramatic colour. For a dash

of vibrancy Gordale recommend cyclamens, which come in both white

and pink shades – the contrast against the autumn shades will look

stunning.

Shades of Autumn

GARDENING



Large Tibor Range £109.99










Embrace Autumn...

The centre piece of any brilliant garden is a brilliant lawn, and to

ensure that your lawn is looking in tip-top condition next spring, it’s

important to start caring for it as early as now. The lawn experts at

Gordale suggest that you start to mow less frequently and raise the

height of the grass as the growth rate of the grass begins to decrease.

Make sure that you rake out any thatch, prick over the ground and

dress with “clean” weed-free topsoil. After raking out dead grass and

moss that has built up over the summer months, the team recommend

applying a high-potassium autumn lawn feed which will release the

correct balance of essential nutrients to your lawn during the harsh

winter months.

As October starts to close the gap between

Summer and Autumn, memories of long

balmy evenings fade like the suntans they

attracted and our thoughts turn to bonfi res,

fi reworks and cosy nights in.

If, like me, you love a good excuse for a

party then Halloween will probably feature

pretty prominently on your social calendar.

An outdoor party is always a great get-

together, a chance to get wrapped up

in hats and scarves whilst enjoying some

delicious seasonal food.

Used by tribesmen in Mexico, chimineas

are the perfect way to enjoy the sounds

and smells of a real fi re outdoors without

the sometimes messy side effects! As the

terracotta body of the chiminea warms

up, it kicks out a lovely even heat, and

as a centrepiece to your seating ensures

everyone feels the benefi t. We normally

burn wood on ours, but old newspaper and

dry garden debris works just as well.

So plan your outdoor fun properly and

head into Autumn/Winter with a sense of

excitement and if you haven’t already got

one, invest in a chiminea or fi re-pit from

the spellbinding selection at Gordale and

experience the warmth of this marvellous

invention for yourself.

Chim Chiminea!

Luscious Lawns!




Free talks with Horticulturist

Karen RichardsMake a BonsaiWednesday 2nd November 11am and 2pm

Christmas All AglowWednesday 23rd November11am and 2pm

Bring your Garden IndoorsWednesday 30th November11am and 2pm

Dinner & DemonstrationFirst Day of ChristmasThursday 1st December6.00pm start £20 - Booking is essential

Dinner & DemonstrationAll in the DetailThursday 8th December6.00 pm start £20 - Booking is essential

Evergreen Autumn 2 in 1 Lawn Food and Moss Killer £21.99 per bag

Both available at Gordale

Scotts Lawn Builder

from £8.99

Gordale Dates for Your Diary!

Chimenea Logs 10 KG £6.75

Small Colonial Rocals Range

£59.99


BUY ONE REGULAR CUP OF TEA OR COFFEE AND GET ONE FREE

31.11.11



Promoting Choice in EducationCOOL SCHOOLS

CLASS ACT

As Principal I often get asked, why Birkenhead Sixth Form? What makes it special and why

should I /my son / my daughter consider it as a next step. There are so many reasons to join us,

but here are my thoughts.......

Birkenhead Sixth Form is one of the best colleges for students aged 16 - 19 on the Wirral and

not just because of the fantastic results, superb facilities and amazing tutors but also because of

the outstanding student experience offered to students who choose to come here.

At Birkenhead Sixth Form, we aim to provide you with full support from the very start of your

application journey, through to helping you choose the right courses and helping you decide what

you want to do after college. With our fantastic student support team including; liaison guides,

learning mentors, personal tutors and the college counsellor there will always be someone on hand

to help you with any queries, concerns or worries you may have.

Whatever your qualifications we are certain that we can help you find the right courses and we

will make sure that your programme will give you the best chances of success. We offer a wide

range of courses from A levels and BTEC’s through to GCSE’s and Foundation programmes, so

there really is something for everyone.

At Birkenhead Sixth Form you will be treated as a young adult and we will encourage you to

take increasing responsibility for your personal and academic life. At all times we will offer you

our maximum support. We will obviously place great emphasis on helping you to achieve the

examination success for which you are aiming and we will also encourage you to develop fully your

own interests and career ambitions.

Alongside your studies we also like to encourage students to take part in enrichment activities

such as dance, sport, volunteering projects and D of E. The student union will also hold a number

of events throughout the year including fundraisers, college parties and performances which

means that there is a fantastic social side to college life!

We look forward to receiving your application and to welcoming you into our College community.

A NOTE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL, KATHRYN PODMORE.....

CLASS ACT

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

During the summer break, staff and contractors were busy transforming a variety of areas across the college campus in readiness for the new student intake this autumn.

Working against tight deadlines the team, headed by dedicated Director of Finance Karen Wiggins, worked around the clock to create stunning new learning environments across the college.

CLASSROOM STYLEDuring our tour, we were treated to a sneak preview of a selection of the new classroom areas, taking in a super new Science lab, media suite and art facility along the way. The old classrooms have been totally transformed with new desks, chairs, whiteboards and state-of-the-art AV chairs, whiteboards and state-of-the-art AV equipment which would be the envy of any city centre office suite. ‘We have really tried to creat an adult, work focussed space, ‘ commented Karen. ‘We aim to provide the very best resources for our students and very best resources for our students and the new classrooms will form just part of a the new classrooms will form just part of a the new classrooms will form just part of a general overhaul across the campus.’general overhaul across the campus.’general overhaul across the campus.’

But it was no mean feat.

Alongside many ‘unseen’ but essential projects such as a new heating system and roof, windows were replaced across the college and the gym was completely resurfaced with new robust flooring able to withstand not just sporting activities but open days and exam time in this multi-use space.

As the new term fast approached, Karen said the Premises Team worked wonders getting the site ‘fit for purpose’ again once the contactors had left and students returned to a new and improved college with more facilities than ever.

TECHNOLOGY CENTRALNationally acclaimed for their Nationally acclaimed for their commitment to technology, the college commitment to technology, the college continued its commitment to investment continued its commitment to investment within this area by creating a number within this area by creating a number of brand new technology areas. A of brand new technology areas. A dedicated CAD suite was added to the dedicated CAD suite was added to the Design Technology department and a Design Technology department and a cross-subject media suite was launched cross-subject media suite was launched complete with 40+ MACS for students use.complete with 40+ MACS for students use.

The much used Learning Curve – a hybrid The much used Learning Curve – a hybrid Library, Technology, Homework and Study Library, Technology, Homework and Study centre was re-designed to add more floor centre was re-designed to add more floor space, allowing a bank of new MACS to space, allowing a bank of new MACS to space, allowing a bank of new MACS to be installed and increasing the overall be installed and increasing the overall supervised study area significantly.supervised study area significantly.

We take at look at the very latest developments happening at Wirral’s only

dedicated Sixth Form College. Designed to enhance the learning opportunities

for students from across the region, the College has recently undergone stage

one of a major refurbishment - breathing new life into the already impressive site

and adding state-of-the art facilities across the board.


Promoting Choice in EducationCOOL SCHOOLS

CLASS ACT

As Principal I often get asked, why Birkenhead Sixth Form? What makes it special and why

should I /my son / my daughter consider it as a next step. There are so many reasons to join us,

but here are my thoughts.......

Birkenhead Sixth Form is one of the best colleges for students aged 16 - 19 on the Wirral and

not just because of the fantastic results, superb facilities and amazing tutors but also because of

the outstanding student experience offered to students who choose to come here.

At Birkenhead Sixth Form, we aim to provide you with full support from the very start of your

application journey, through to helping you choose the right courses and helping you decide what

you want to do after college. With our fantastic student support team including; liaison guides,

learning mentors, personal tutors and the college counsellor there will always be someone on hand

to help you with any queries, concerns or worries you may have.

Whatever your qualifications we are certain that we can help you find the right courses and we

will make sure that your programme will give you the best chances of success. We offer a wide

range of courses from A levels and BTEC’s through to GCSE’s and Foundation programmes, so

there really is something for everyone.

At Birkenhead Sixth Form you will be treated as a young adult and we will encourage you to

take increasing responsibility for your personal and academic life. At all times we will offer you

our maximum support. We will obviously place great emphasis on helping you to achieve the

examination success for which you are aiming and we will also encourage you to develop fully your

own interests and career ambitions.

Alongside your studies we also like to encourage students to take part in enrichment activities

such as dance, sport, volunteering projects and D of E. The student union will also hold a number

of events throughout the year including fundraisers, college parties and performances which

means that there is a fantastic social side to college life!

We look forward to receiving your application and to welcoming you into our College community.

A NOTE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL, KATHRYN PODMORE.....

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

CLASSROOM STYLE

TECHNOLOGY CENTRAL

We take at look at the very latest developments happening at Wirral’s only

dedicated Sixth Form College. Designed to enhance the learning opportunities

for students from across the region, the College has recently undergone stage

one of a major refurbishment - breathing new life into the already impressive site

and adding state-of-the art facilities across the board.



COOL SCHOOLS

HEADS UPIn this edition our editor catches up with Steven Dool, Head teacher at Neston High

School. She finds out a bit more about his background, what makes him tick and

why he left dreams of football stardom behind to teach!

DID YOU KNOW?

xxxx.

So Mr Dool, why teaching?

What do you think is the ‘Neston’ difference?

How do you measure success?

What is your ethos on good leadership?

What do you do for fun?

Quick Fire FourGood book or great film?

Late Night or Lie In?

Football or rugby?

Hot holiday or cold?

COOL SCHOOLS

STUDENT VOICEAs she embarks on her second year at Wirral’s only dedicated Sixth

Form College, we catch up with A2 student Amelia Hannah from

Heswall and find out how she has coped with the transition from

school to college and her plans for the future......

So Amelia what made you chose Birkenhead Sixth Form as your next step?I had always planned to carry on at school, it seemed like the natural thing to do, but I came to an open day here at the Sixth Form and I just knew this was the place for me. The main problem with my school Sixth Form was that my subject choices were quite restricted, but here I could chose my perfect combination so that was a real plus.

More than anything I realised that I wanted to feel more like a young adult and move away from a traditional school environment. Here, we are given a lot of support but also treated like adults so have to learn how to motivate ourselves too.

What have you loved most about your first year here?Well after I got over my initial nerves, I really embraced the independence the Sixth Form gives you. The timetables are really well planned so its easy to make best use of your time and the facilities are just fantastic. I’ve made a lot of new friends and the whole experience has really helped me to growpersonally.

How are you getting on with your studies?Well I’ve made great progress and smashed all my targets, so I guess that is good! I’m pretty academic, I got an A*, 8 A’S and 2 B’s at GCSE, so hopefully I will get the grades I need for university.

I really love the tutor system, we have regular meetings and personal interview days every term to help track our progress and there is always additional help on hand should we need it. It was a bit weird calling tutors by the first names at the beginning – so different from school, but I think helps builds

mutual respect and I know I can mutual respect and I know I can mutual respect and I know I can mutual respect and I know I can go to my tutors for anything at all.go to my tutors for anything at all.go to my tutors for anything at all.go to my tutors for anything at all.

So what is the extracurricular offering like?Fab! I have done loads of stuff Fab! I have done loads of stuff this year. As part of the BE-More this year. As part of the BE-More initiative that the college run I initiative that the college run I have done quite a bit of have done quite a bit of volunteering. It’s been great volunteering. It’s been great as I have managed to link it as I have managed to link it with my career plans and its with my career plans and its been so rewarding.been so rewarding.

There is all sorts of things on offer from sport and dance to D of E, so you can really enhance the social side of your time here if you want too also.

So what is next for Amelia?Well obviously I have to keep working hard this year, get my grades then hopefully I will be going to University to study Physiotherapy – that is my plan anyway!

Finally, if you had to sum up Birkenhead Sixth Form, how would you describe it??Total independence and freedom to learn in your own way, yet totally supportive and really really friendly. I love it!


COOL SCHOOLS

HEADS UPIn this edition our editor catches up with Steven Dool, Head teacher at Neston High

School. She finds out a bit more about his background, what makes him tick and

why he left dreams of football stardom behind to teach!

DID YOU KNOW?

Educated in Aberdeen at The Kincorth Academy, Steven Dool left school with dreams of becoming a professional footballer. The ‘sports mad’ always kept up his game playing semi-professionally in the South of England whilst studying for an apprentiship in engineering.

Driven by his passion for coaching, he left engineering to pursue a career in teaching, studying in Chester before taking up his first post at Hilbre High School, joining Neston as Deputy Head in xxxx.He has been in post as Head teacher for five years...........

So Mr Dool, why teaching?Well my coaching days really made me aware of the immense amount of satisfaction you can get out of helping young people achieve their potential. I really do feel quite honoured that I am in aposition to influence young peoples’ lives, it really is so rewarding.More than anything though I think it has to be the variety the job offers – every day truly is different and I have to say something makes me smile every day!

What do you think is the ‘Neston’ difference?There really is a very special buzz about this school – its a special place. Obviously we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality care and guidance to our students whilst challenging them every day to strive for their aspirations.

There is a real focus on the individual here, in fact our most recent OFSTED here, in fact our most recent OFSTED stated that ‘every child really does matter’ which really does reflect our ethos. Neston students are something else. They have a really strong affinity to the school and a close bond with teachers, and our staff are all highly experienced, well qualified and passionate about what they do.

How do you measure success?We have really tried to foster a culture of success here at Neston, by equipping students with everything they need to fulfil their own individual potential. Our exam results are excellent and students are going on to a range of superb destinations in both higher education, training and the workplace.

Alongside that we have launched a number of special initiatives aimed at personal development, in particular the 360 Degree People initiative, helping students to identify their own strengths andweaknesses and develop new social, practical and interpersonal skills to help them alongside their academic journey.

What is your ethos on good leadership?A good leader can look to and anticipate the future whilst encouraging a community to ‘come with them’ amd achieve the best possible outcomes. I think it is critical to set a clear vision and direction whilst listening to those around you and instilling confidence at every level. Ultimately, a good leader is only as good as his team, and mine have to be amongst the best.

What do you do for fun?Well I don’t know whether you can consider it fun, but I am a Liverpool season ticket holder. I still love all sports, particularly football, but this role is not just a job, it’s a way of life and my family are very much involved in many aspects of school life.

Quick Fire FourGood book or great film?Film - All time favourite, what else...Braveheart!Late Night or Lie In?Late night, bit of a night owl reallyFootball or rugby?...and golf and tennis and skiing – any sport whatsoever!Hot holiday or cold?Cold I think. Love skiing and think I’m just about young enough tostill enjoy it!

STUDENT VOICEAs she embarks on her second year at Wirral’s only dedicated Sixth

Form College, we catch up with A2 student Amelia Hannah from

Heswall and find out how she has coped with the transition from

school to college and her plans for the future......

So Amelia what made you chose Birkenhead Sixth Form as your next step?

What have you loved most about your first year here?

How are you getting on with your studies?

So what is the extracurricular offering like?

So what is next for Amelia?

Finally, if you had to sum up Birkenhead Sixth Form, how would you describe it??



BreakLunch

‘My other great passion is outdoor pursuits,’ said Paul. ‘I am heavily involved with the college’s D of E programme and it is a big part of my life.



COOL SCHOOLS

As this was my first visit, I have to

say I was extremely keen to check

out the much talked about funky

interior, not to mention the inventive

menu of home-made tapas. I was,

however, equally excited to meet

Paul Moore, part of the award

winning IT team at Birkenhead Sixth

form and by all accounts, an all-

action guy who has been making a

real impact at Wirral’s top Sixth Form

destination.

As the lovely Dawn guided us to

our seats in the stylish conservatory,

I have to say I was bowled over by

the super-stylish interior – complete

with faux snakeskin sofa’s, funky

wallpaper and fabulous furniture

throughout.

Tapas With A TaleHaving studied the menu for some

time (it really is something else), we

made our choices, fish, in the form

of home-made crab cakes, meat

with the comforting belly pork and

most intriguingly, the Spanish style

scouse – all served with usual tapas

style accompaniments of delicious

breads and patatas bravas.

Once we had ordered, we settled

down for a good natter about Paul’s

background, what had drawn him

to teaching and what he really

loved about his role at the Sixth

Form....

‘My original plan was to go into

law, ‘said Paul. ‘I studied Politics at

Liverpool University, but changed

my mind and ended up working

in travel marketing for a while. I

knew pretty quickly that it wasn’t

for me and as I had always been

involved with youth work, I found

myself leaning towards a career in

teaching.’

Finally, four years after graduating,

Paul took the brave step of returning

to college to study for an extended

PGSE in IT. Once he had gained his

teaching qualification his first post

was with the College and he really

has not looked back since.

‘Well I come from Wirral and had

really good things about the Sixth

Form,’ said Paul.’My time as a

scout leader and my involvement

with D of E meant I knew I would

be comfortable working with older

students and I definitely made the

right decision.

With a growing reputation for IT

excellence the college has invested

thousands in new technology across

all departments.

‘IT really is seen as a central

core subject at The Sixth Form,’

commented Paul. ‘Our students

have access to some of the

best facilities in the region, with

industry standard equipment and

programmes across all subject

areas.’

All students enjoy remote access

enabling them to log in from

anywhere and access files and

programmes to help with their

studies. With superb results (amongst

the highest in the UK for A* grades),

it seems Paul and his colleagues are

creating a culture of success that is

emanating across the college.

But it’s not just technology that makes Paul tick.‘My other great passion is outdoor

pursuits,’ said Paul. ‘I am heavily

involved with the college’s D of E

programme and it is a big part of

my life.

Indeed Paul, his fellow instructors

and a group of students have just

returned from an expedition in

Snowdonia where they endured four

days of tough terrain walking and

camping.

‘I loved it,’ said Paul, and the

students got so much out of it too.’

Judging by Pauls’ appetite for the

delicious tapas, this is a guy who

loves his food as much as anything

– hey after 4 days of walking in the

wilds, he must need all the energy

he can get!

With huge thankyou to John, Jason

and the team at the wonderful

Oxton Courtyard. To book your slice

of tapas heaven, call the team

today on 0151 651 1118

To find out more about Birkenhead Sixth Form College go to: www.bsfc.ac.uk

In this edition our editor dines with Birkenhead Sixth Form IT Tutor, Paul Moore, at the stunning new Courtyard Bar in the heart of Oxton Village. Opting for a delicious selection of the much talked about international tapas, the pair enjoyed a fabulous ‘Lunch-Break’ at this remarkable new venue.......



NEW

STORE O

PENIN

G

AT STATION

PARADE,

WEST KIRBY

COOL SCHOOLS

Visit us at www.bsfc.ac.ukfacebook.com/birkenheadsixthform

twitter.com/bsfc

Make Birkenhead Sixth Form the fi rst choice for your next move....

With more choice than any other sixth form college on Wirral....

BSFC_viewhome11.indd 1 25/10/2011 13:39VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 52 25/10/2011 19:53


Mason Mclean is an independent dry cleaner

and launderer with a difference!

It is owned and operated by Shaun Mason who

has previously been Managing Director of luxury

cleaner Jeeves of Belgravia in London and in

addition ran the specialist operations for Johnsons

nationwide.

Shaun’s passion for and knowledge of cleaning

extends over 15 years and he has put an

experienced team together at his fi rst store on

Telegraph Road in Heswall who will professionally

tackle any problem put before them in an

educated and informed manner, and in addition

employ the best in class techniques to ensure all

your fabrics have the best of care.

Manager Victoria Amos and her assistant Lyn

Bassnett have over 20 years experience and

pride themselves in how garments are all hand

fi nished and presented back to customers in a

fi rst class condition.

Mason McLean’s wide range of services includes

but is not limited to, wedding dress cleaning,

suede’s and leathers, handbag restoration as

well as conventional dry cleaning and laundering

of business suits, day dresses, bed linen and

duvets.

They also offer a convenient collection and

delivery service which includes taking down and

re-hanging curtains.

Shaun hopes to expand his operation over the

next few years throughout the Wirral, North

Wales and Cheshire but will also deal with postal

work from all over the UK and indeed overseas.

October sees Shaun opening a new store in West

Kirby on Station Parade.

So if your cleaning needs are just a refresh and

quality press of your work suits and shirts or the

cleaning and preservation of a couture dress

Mason McLean would be delighted to be of

service.

and launderer with a difference!

It is owned and operated by Shaun Mason who

has previously been Managing Director of luxury

cleaner Jeeves of Belgravia in London and in

addition ran the specialist operations for Johnsons

nationwide.

Shaun’s passion for and knowledge of cleaning

extends over 15 years and he has put an

experienced team together at his fi rst store on

Telegraph Road in Heswall who will professionally Telegraph Road in Heswall who will professionally Telegraph Road in Heswall who will professionally

tackle any problem put before them in an

educated and informed manner, and in addition

employ the best in class techniques to ensure all

your fabrics have the best of care.

Manager Victoria Amos and her assistant Lyn

Bassnett have over 20 years experience and

pride themselves in how garments are all hand

fi nished and presented back to customers in a

fi rst class condition.

Shaun is also a specialist

affi liate member of the BDMA

(British Damage Management

Association) and provides fabric

restoration services to the insurance

industry rescuing all manner of

textiles after fi res and fl oods.

Some more unusual examples of

his work include recently restoring

Masonic Banners, Persian rugs,

vintage Chanel bag and a

100 year old stuffed parrot!

Dry Clean Difference

The

61 Telegraph Road, Heswall

Tel: 0151 342 4977www.masonmclean.co.uk

Finest Dry Cleaners and Launderers

61 Telegraph Road, Heswall61 Telegraph Road, Heswall

Tel: 0151 342 4977Tel: 0151 342 4977www.masonmclean.co.ukwww.masonmclean.co.uk

Finest Dry Cleaners Finest Dry Cleaners and Launderersand Launderers

NEW

STORE O

PENIN

G

AT STATION

PARADE,

WEST KIRBY

STATION PARADE, WEST KIRBY&

61 TELEGRAPH ROAD, HESWALLTEL: 0151 342 4977

COOL SCHOOLS

Visit us at www.bsfc.ac.ukfacebook.com/birkenheadsixthform

twitter.com/bsfc

Make Birkenhead Sixth Form the fi rst choice for your next move....

With more choice than any other sixth form college on Wirral....

BSFC_viewhome11.indd 1 25/10/2011 13:39 VIEW_Home11_Inner.indd 53 25/10/2011 19:53


ShockingGives extreme volume instantly, it has new brush technology with multi directional bristles which means you get maximum load on the brush. Shocking gives a false lash effect with outrageous volume!

SingulierThis one has a spiral brush which gives a more seperate eyelash effect, for a powerful dramatisation of your look. A mascara that dares everything – volume, length and extreme curves and sculpts the lashes creating a base effect liner for a look that is unique yet irresistible. Exagerated lashes dramatic styling.

Mascara Volume Effet Faux CilsThis mascara gives luxurious buildable volume and fans of the luxurious doe eyed look no longer need false eye lashes. Voted best mascara on Gok’s How to Look Good Naked it is the No 1 mascara in the industry. Your eyes will look intense and glamorous.

Road Test - Luscious Lashes!

Well, they say the eyes have it and with that in mind, we have teamed up with the super-knowledgeable team at the House of Fraser YSL counter to take a look at the latest super lash-lengthening mascaras and give you our verdict on how you can make your eyes stand out from the crowd this season!

Sharon & Gill from YSL at House of Fraser Birkenhead are always on hand to give you tips and techniques for smokey eyes, the number one YSL’s

look for Christmas. With a full range of mascara, eyeliners, gel eyeliners and eyeshadows available. Call in and see Sharon & Gill and let them show you

the beauty must haves from YSL this Christmas.

Melanie Wright has been a practising Osteopath in Heswall since 1988, launching the Holistic Centre in its present position back in 1994. The centre now has 4 Osteopaths along with a whole host of other complementary therapists.

Bone health is one of Melanie’s specialist areas both from an Osteopathic and a Public Health Nutrition perspective. With an ageing population Osteopenia and Osteoporosis (reduced bone mass and increased risk of low trauma fractures-especially to the hip, wrist and spine) are becoming much more of a problem. Weight bearing exercise and a healthy varied diet are very important.

A diet containing adequate calcium, magnesium and vitamin D is vital to help maintain bone health. We need vitamin D in order to be able to absorb the calcium that we take in our food. It has also been

found that vitamin D helps to prevent falls in older people which is obviously the reason why many fracture bones in the fi rst place! Vitamin D is predominantly synthesised in the skin and as such we need exposure to a certain wavelength of UV-B (sunshine) which is not available at certain times of the year in northern latitudes such as the UK. This means that dietary intake becomes more important. Foods high in vitamin D include eggs (especially the yolk), kale, spinach, oily fi sh, dairy produce, fortifi ed cereals and margarine. Calcium rich foods include dairy products (cheese, milk, yoghurt), mackerel, dark and leafy vegetables, spinach, soybeans, tofu.

For further information or an appointment to discuss and assess your general nutritional status or bone health then please contact Melanie at the Holistic Centre.

Take.....The Holistic Approach

m a g a z i n e m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e H O m e 2 0 1 1m a g a z i n e

Approach



So what is NLP?Alison Blackler from 2minds explains

2minds are passionate about you believing in yourself and having the life that you want and deserve. alison Blackler believes personal growth and development is the key to leading an enriched life. Her vivaciousness and natural ability to engage people has now reached many

we offer personal performance coaching combined with neuro linguistic Programming and Hypnosis. a powerful combination and we will tailor sessions for you and your needs to assisting you to remove the barriers that keep you from achieving your dreams in all or any areas of your life

Do you believe in yourself? are you good enough? Do you lack motivation, determination, clarity? are struggling to feel happy? are you in the right relationship? are you seeking love? Do you lack confidence? are you struggling with bad habits? is your weight a problem. 2minds offers a holistic, focused solution so that you can create significant, permanent changes

we offer a completely different experience. it differs from other therapies because it works more on how people think rather than what they think. it is not necessary to “tell your story” or know why or when the problem started. The other difference is that we work with both the unconscious and conscious minds, where other therapies are more focused on conscious thoughts. what we do is to teach you how to take responsibility of your life and encourage you to have the world the way they want it

So what is Neuro

Linguistic Programming?There are many different ways of explaining neuro linguistic Programming or nlP, the easiest being, think of your brain as a computer, the software is the unconscious mind which runs to the best of its ability but not always generating the desired results. nlP re-programmes your unconscious mind, therefore the software, freeing you from unwanted beliefs, limiting decisions and negative emotions like anger, sadness, fear, hurt and guilt

alison says that meeting someone for the first time is “inspiring, there is so much hope and potential. it is always a privilege to be there at the start of a journey”

Take action and contact usalison Blacker is a highly skilled and experienced master Practitioner of nlP, Hypnosis, Time line Therapy and Personal Performance coach. all sessions are private and confidential. Take a look at the website for further information and dare to invest in yourself like never before.

why not give alison a call on 07703 599246 for an informal chat. we offer a 1:1, initial consultation so that sessions can be tailored to all your specific needs. Our clinic is on the wirral.

Take action right now and make a life changing decision today.

Alison Blackler, Director

“Discover the life

you’ve always

dreamed of.”www.2mindsnlp.co.uk

Start to imagine how much better for life could be without your fear or phobia call 07703 599246.

Heswall Osteopathy and Holistic Centre is one of the leading Osteopathic Centres on the Wirral. Established in 1994 by Melanie Wright we now have four Osteopathic practitioners (three female and one male) who offer the full range

of osteopathic techniques (structural, cranial and veterinary osteopathy).In addition the centre offers an extensive range of complementary therapies

that can be tailored to meet your requirements. Osteopathy aims to improve mobility, relax muscular patterns, restore joint

function and improve drainage to areas whose function has been compromised.

Further information can be obtained by ringing our reception on 0151 342 7272www.heswallosteopathy.co.uk Centre is open until 8pm three nights per week.

OsteopathyChiropody

PhysiotherapyAcupuncture

Swedish/ holistic massageNutritional therapy

Hypnotherapy and CounsellingSports massage

Infant massage lessons/coursesReiki

Heswall Osteopathy and Holistic Centre4 Milner Road, Heswall, Wirral, CH60 5RZ



Fabulous Frames

The Look

For all the latest designer frames and an unmatched clinical service, make Harris your first stop for eyewear heaven.8 Banks Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4HB. Tel: 0151 625 7742175-177 Telegraph Road, Heswall, Wirral CH60 7SE. Tel: 0151 342 4130

www.harrisopticians.co.uk

Posh, Jennifer, Rhianna and Jay Z – they’re all at it. What you wear on

your eyes is now as important as what you wear everywhere else and

our very own Wirral super-specs specialist has the lot.

With classic designer frames from the likes of Chanel and RayBan

to uber-cool Californian chic from the catwalk’s favourite Oliver

Peoples, Harris Opticians has designer style by the bucket load.

From stunning Chopard numbers to the quintessentially British Ted

Baker collection, you can find the latest collections at unbeatable

prices with a superb clinical service to match.

Get the latest couture frames for that on-trend look this season

WINa pair of designer frames to the value of £150,

simply email [email protected] or log onto

www.viewwirral.com and leave us your details.

closing date 12th December 2011.



BusinessBusinessBusiness

Northwood Open DayNorthwood Lettings in Heswall recently

hosted a free event and invited landlords

to come and ask about the ins and

outs of letting a property. On hand for

advice, queries and tips was a property

management lawyer, mortgage advisor,

tax advisor and of course the Northwood

Team, for what can sometimes be a

minefi eld of information.

Over the course of the day there was

a steady stream of landlords and

prospective landlords that reaped the

benefi ts of all these specialists being

under one roof at the same time. If you

would like more information or have

any questions about your property or

becoming a landlord, give them a

call on 0151 348 4527 or pop in to 78

Telegraph Road, Heswall ..... the kettle is

always on!

BUSINESS

Vote of confi dence for Lees SolicitorsJon Bloor and the Business Law team

recently advised Voluntary and

Community Action Wirral on the

regulatory and compliance aspects of

their new website www.wirralwell.org, a

new one stop shop, online information

resource for wellbeing, health and social

care services for Wirral residents. As well

as providing legal documentation for

the site, the team will also be providing

compliance training for the volunteers

who will operate the site.

Karen Livesey, Business Development

Manager at VCA Wirral said ‘The service

we received from Jon and the team at

Lees Solicitors was fantastic. There was

always someone on hand to answer our

questions and help us through this very

complicated and specialist area. We

certainly look forward to working with

them again in the future.’

Jon commented ‘ We were really

pleased to be able to help VCA Wirral

with such a worthwhile project.

Sites like this provide a fantastic

channel for voluntary and not-for-profi t

organisations to provide services to their

local communities. However, it is really

important to make sure that you have

addressed all of the legal issues and put

in place appropriate user terms and

conditions and privacy policies.

Businesses are subject to ever increasing

regulation in areas like cookies and

Data Protection and, in particular,

anyone who operates a website

incorporating “user generated content”

will need to consider how they address

the risks of liability for any content which

is defamatory or infringes copyright.’

Vote of confi dence

always on! resource for wellbeing, health and social

care services for Wirral residents. As well

as providing legal documentation for

the site, the team will also be providing

compliance training for the volunteers

who will operate the site.

Karen Livesey, Business Development

Manager at VCA Wirral said ‘The service

we received from Jon and the team at

Lees Solicitors was fantastic. There was

always someone on hand to answer our

questions and help us through this very

complicated and specialist area. We

certainly look forward to working with

them again in the future.’



careerDescribe your school days. Were you the ‘perfect prefect’ or a rebel without a cause??I loved my days at school, I went to St Anselm’s in Birkenhead. I was very sporty so was always running playing football or triple-jumping!

Did you go on to college?Yes – York University to do a chemistry degree, perfect for a career in media!

What was your very fi rst job?Very fi rst job was stacking supermarket shelves at 16 but post degree, my fi rst job was a Trainee Sales Exec at Metro Radio in Newcastle.

What was your next step up the ladder?I moved to Radio City to continue on the sales path before being persuaded back to Newcastle and making the switch to the creative side of the business. That step was a huge risk but paved the way for my future career.

How did you get into the world of media?Although my chemistry degree wasn’t the ideal preparation for media, my days at University allowed me to get involved in music and entertainment and trying to make it work commercially so that whet my appetite for the industry. The sales job in radio was my route through to it.

What has been your most embarrassing moment at work?I’m not that embarrassed by it but judging by the comments I’ve had, maybe I should be.....the moment that TOWIE was announced as the winner of the BAFTA recently. Little did I know but the world was watching me full screen having an excited hug with Amy Childs – YouTube it and you’ll see what I mean.

What has been your greatest achievement?I’m lucky enough to have been associated with winning many great awards but when I was 21 I made a speech revealing my ambition of becoming MD of Radio City by age 30 – and I just made it!

What do you love most about your current role?Variety...within 10 minutes the other day I agreed terms on a deal with a vajazzle company and then negotiated a multimillion pound deal with a broadcaster!

If you were not a media guru, what would be your alternative dream career?Not sure about the guru bit but my other passion is horse racing and I’d like to be involved in the breeding side of that industry.

What is your recipe for success?Surround yourself with people who are better than you in their specialist areas and allow them to make decisions.

My Career LadderSubject:

Sean MarleyPosition:

Managing Director Lime Pictures

Quick Fire FiveHot holiday or cold? HotDinner or lunch? DinnerFooty or Rugby? FootyLate night or lie In? Both – one followed by the otherGood book or great fi lm? Good book

BUSINESS



Award Winning Accountants ShineWirral business growth accountants

Woods Squared named as winners of Most

Innovative Sole Practitioner at the 2020

Group Innovation Awards 2011.

On 13 October at the 13th Annual 2020

Conference in The Hilton Birmingham

Metropole in Birmingham, Wirral based

Woods Squared were named as the Most

Innovative Sole Practitioner.

2020 is the largest voluntary membership

organisation in the UK with over 1,200

fi rms ranging from national fi rms through

to sole practitioners and is specifi cally

designed to encourage accountancy fi rms

to develop into marketing, adding value

and management techniques to maximise

profi tability in the long term.

The award celebrates success and

achievement across the accounting

profession with particular emphasis on

innovation and creativity.

Accepting the award from Peter Shilton MBE

OBE, Gordon Gilchrist and Chris Frederiksen

of 2020 with his team, Woods Squared

founder Alan Woods said:

“It is a fantastic achievement being named

once again as the Most Innovative Sole

Practitioner after having won it before in

2008 as it is great to be recognised for doing

something different on a consistent basis

within our industry. We have been very

careful to develop our profi le as more than

just accountants and hopefully this and

other awards that we have won and are

currently shortlisted for will continue to help

us get that message across.”

To celebrate their win, Woods Squared are

offering the fi rst 20 businesses to contact

them before the end of November the

chance to test drive their new £1000

diagnostic review service for free. Designed

to identify, and then help close, the gap

between what a business is worth today and

what the business owners needs or wants it

to be worth in the future.

For more information on Woods Squared’s

services or to enquire about the free

business diagnostic review please email

[email protected] or call the

Woods Squared team on 0151 649 8456.

SME Funding – Does it Actually Exist?As Business Growth Accountants one of the

most frequent conversations we have with

small and medium sized business owners is

about funding. The things covered most

often include talking about ways to help

businesses manage their day-to-day cash

fl ow, discussing the various options available

to businesses that have got behind on

their liabilities or a business that is looking

to secure funding so it can grow and take

advantage of the current opportunities that

are available.

No matter which of these it is the common

point that we always end up coming back

to is that no matter what the banks and

other funding organisations say it is the

perception of the business owners that

people are not lending.

We sympathise completely with this

viewpoint and we have seen a massive shift

in the approach that banks in particular are now

taking with their lending decisions compared

to 3 or 4 years ago but we do happen to agree

with the banks on this one – sorry!

It is our experience that banks are looking

to lend but unfortunately the majority of

business owners that are approaching them

with their lending requests are not providing

them with suffi cient information that allows

them to say yes. We are lucky to currently

have a 100% success rate when helping our

clients in this area and our 3 golden tips to

help any business in this area are:

1. Make sure that you have up-to-date

management information showing what

you are currently doing as a business.

2. Prepare forecasts to identify the funding

gap needed and what the additional

funding being requested will be used for.

3. Tailor the information being provided to the

particular bank or lending organisation that

you are speaking to – what one bank may

want to see may not be the same as another.

The fi rst point of contact for any business

owner looking to access fi nance for their

business should be their professional adviser

as they should have the contacts and

expertise that is needed to help you to

position your proposition in the best way to

the most appropriate funders.

If anyone needs help or wants to fi nd out

more then please contact us for a free initial

no obligation discussion about the options

available to you.

FOLLOW US!

Woods Squared Limited 49 Hamilton Square Birkenhead Wirral CH41 5ARTelephone 0151 649 8456 Facsimile 0151 649 8453E-mail [email protected] Website www.woods-squared.co.uk

Sponsored by:

BUSINESS

Finance...with Business Growth Accountants, Woods SquaredStrategy ~ Accountancy ~ Tax

twitter.com/#!/woodssquared

facebook.com/woodssquared

linkedin.com/in/woodssquared



These days we are all well aware of the costs involved when it comes

to long term care. For many of us the thought of spending our fi nal

days in a residential care home has little appeal, not only because

of the costs involved but also because we want to remain in our own

homes where we are close to friends, family and loved ones.

LEGAL

For this reason, many people choose to live with elderly relatives in order to provide care for them in their home environment for as long as possible. Children may move into their parents’ homes or vice versa; or a new home may be purchased for the family to share.

Many parents will wish to contribute fi nancially when they live with their children which may be through providing a property to live in, paying a share of the purchase price or paying for refurbishments.

Whichever route the family choose to go down, there are a number of issues to be considered before a fi nal decision is taken.

Deliberate deprivation of assets

Everyone requiring care in England & Wales is required to fund the cost of that care if they have capital assets over a certain value.

If the Local Authority are able to show that assets have been given away to avoid paying for care then they may be able to claim the gifted assets to contribute towards the care costs.

It is important show an alternative reason for making a gift of assets, for example the payment of money to children for the provision of care provided by them.

Seeking professional advice prior to moving in with elderly parents or starting to care for them at home is the best way to avoid any fi nancial pitfalls.

Shared ownership

If the ownership of a property is shared between elderly parents and children who live together, the best way to record how the property is owned is through a Deed of Trust.

This document records the share of the property owned by each party. This will avoid any dispute with the Local Authority as to how much of the property is available for them to recover to pay for care home fees.

Gifts with reservation of benefi t

Some parents choose to gift their properties to their children and continue to live at home so that they can be cared for by their children.

For inheritance tax purposes, this is known as a “gift with reservation of benefi t”. This means that the value of the gifted asset will still be included as part of the persons estate for tax purposes on their death.

James Wallace, solicitor, says “The rules concerning inheritance tax and care fees are completely different and it is important that clients understand how the rules operate. It is not always possible to achieve a solution that is benefi cial for both tax planning and care fee planning and often a balance needs to be struck between the two”.

Sharing the family home with elderly relatives

If you wish to discuss any of the issues mentioned above, please contact James Wallace at Lees Solicitors LLP,

90/92 Telegraph Road, Heswall – 0151 342 6273 or email [email protected]

Injury and Negligence

Accident and Personal Injury

Clinical Negligence

For Individuals

Court of Protection

Family Law

Residential Conveyancing

Wills, Trusts and Estates

For Business

Commercial Property

Corporate & Commercial

Dispute Resolution

Employment Law



Sainsbury’s Upton Store has already been Highly Commended

for their working partnership with the Wirral Special Schools, and

has now expanded this opportunity to more young people from

the Special Schools. The store is now working with 3 of the Wirral

Special schools Foxfi elds, Meadowside & Clare Mount Specialist

Sport College offering each school one day a week use of their

training room and shop fl oor experience for Post 16 pupils.

“This is a fantastic opportunity that schools and pupils are

extremely grateful for. The support they are receiving from the

Sainsbury’s staff involved is excellent” Katherine Magnall, work

related learning co-ordinator commented.

Nikola Farmer and Julia Hurlbut, of Lees Solicitors LLP, were

among a team of volunteers from the company who spent

a day helping out at Wallasey charity Stick n Step. The

lawyers spent the day weeding, pruning, wood staining and

painting at the charity’s HQ, where they also created dozens

of football sized Christmas decorations in preparation for later

in the year.

Stick n Step supports children with cerebral palsy and their

families across the Northwest. Their specialist therapy sessions,

which have enjoyed considerable success, give the children

coping mechanisms and techniques to manage their

disability. Lees Solicitors, which has offi ces in Birkenhead,

Heswall and West Kirby, have worked with a number of clients

who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Fiona Kemp, Principal in Lees’ Clinical Negligence

Department, said: “We work across all areas of law for both

businesses and individuals but our clinical negligence and

court of protection departments have real experience of

the issues around cerebral palsy so we really appreciate the

amazing work done by Stick n Step.

“They are now one of our nominated charities and we’re

looking forward to helping them in the future and are busy

planning similar volunteer days.”

Lees Solicitors is a progressive legal fi rm based on the Wirral

in three convenient locations: Birkenhead, Heswall and West

Kirby. Lees provide a comprehensive range of services to

both individuals and businesses.

Adam Coyne will be trekking The Great Wall of China in May

2012 to raise funds for The Huntington’s Disease Association.

Adam a long standing Greasby resident was diagnosed with

the condition 7 years ago and has decided to take up a

positive challenge to raise awareness to the condition and to

hopefully assist in fi nding a cure.

He will be holding a benefi t night on Friday 25th November in

Royden Hall Frankby. If anyone would like to enquire about

tickets or is interested in corporate

sponsorship please call Adam direct on 07790 560 457. You

will make a difference !

Sponsored By

Chamber of Business & community

Work Related Learning at Sainsburys Upton

Wirral Lawyers roll up their sleeves for charity Benefi t

Night for The Huntington’s

Disease Association

Business and Community

lees at Stick n Step

pictured nikola Farmer

and Julia Hurlbut 2011



Santa DashBigger and Better than ever.

Happy 1st Birthday Urbane!

Dry Clean Development...

Happy 1st

Grab your Santa suits guys and limber up –

the popular West Kirby Santa Dash is back

for a second year and it looks set to be

bigger than ever.

Drawing on the experts behind the world-

famous Liverpool Santa Dash, the event,

which is organised by the West Kirby

Chamber of Business, forms the culmination

of the town’s pre-Christmas build up.

Taking place on Sunday 18th December,

participants can register / pick up packs

from Le Bizz on Banks Road or any of The

Wro’s and it looks as though around 500

runners will be hitting the beach and Marine

lake in this years festive dash.

When? Sunday 18th Dec

Where? West Kirby Beach

How? Pick up a registration form from Le Bizz Or The Wro

Contemporary gift shop, Urbane is set

to celebrate their 1st Birthday, a year

of trading in their much loved home

of Hoylake. Phil and Houston moved

to Hoylake fi ve years ago and love

the community feel of the village, the

social aspect and wanted to give

back to the community in helping

Hoylake become a successful busy

seaside town.

Both Phil and Houston have a real

passion for design led, contemporary

home and giftware so they found

premises, decided on what to stock

and opened their doors in October

2010...and they have gone from

strength to strength. They have also

launched their own website

www.urbanehoylake.co.uk .

Phil and Houston met on a youth

exchange between Wirral Borough

Council and Hong Kong Commission

on Youth. Phil spent 14 years at

Vauxhalls and then decided to

branch out on his own. Houston is

a housing manager for a Chinese

Housing Association in Liverpool.

So to celebrate their 1st birthday Phil

and Houston invited friends, family,

customers old and new to join them

for celebratory weekend. See the

pics in Goodtimes at the back of the

magazine. Happy Birthday!!

Mason McLean is a specialist Dry Cleaning and

Laundry operation which opened in Heswall in

2010. Since then it has gained a reputation for

high standards of cleaning and garment fi nishing

drawing customers from right across the Wirral

and beyond!

Shaun Mason, owner of Mason Mclean has

now decided to expand operations and during

October will open a new location conveniently

sited on Station Parade in West Kirby. Shaun

commented “It will offer all the services as the

main store in Heswall ranging from standard

day wear such as business suits and dresses to

suedes, leathers, wedding dresses and many

other specialist items including our exclusive

and unique handbag cleaning service which is

becoming ever more popular with the Wirral?

fashion conscious ladies!”



Rental Price ⁄ £925 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 4Address ⁄ 1 Brearley Close, BidstonDescription ⁄ An executive detached modern property on a popular sought after development giving easy access to all local centres and motorways for major centres. The property offers spacious well planned accommodation comprising of entrance hall, cloakroom/WC, lounge, dining room, study, fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room with built in oven/hob and extractor hood with a good range of wall and base units. To the first floor there are 4 double bedrooms, the master bedroom benefitting from an en suite shower room and modern family bathroom. Externally there is a brick built garage, driveway parking and access to the rear enclosed private gardens and shed. MUST BE VIEWED.

Rental Price ⁄ £775 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 3Address ⁄ 9 Oakland Drive, UptonDescription ⁄ An extended much improved modern semi detached house with the benefit of gas central heating and double glazing in a quiet established residential area convenient for local amenities. The property accommodation is comprised of entrance porch, entrance hall, quality ground floor shower room, lounge, extended dining room, fitted kitchen, 3 double bedrooms and modern bathroom over the bath. There is also a garage, additional parking and good sized gardens. MUST BE VIEWED.

Rental Price ⁄ £525 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 2Address ⁄ 1 The Ridings, PrentonDescription ⁄ Forming part of a sought after development a most attractive 2 bedroom ground floor apartment with double glazing and gas central heating throughout. The Ridings is a select development just off Beryl Road and is ideally located for easy access to all local centres. The accommodation is comprised of a common entrance hall, entrance vestibule, entrance hall, lounge/dining area, kitchen with split oven and hob and modern fitted units including washing machine. Two bedrooms, modern bathroom with shower and private parking. MUST BE VIEWED.

Rental Price ⁄ £495 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 2Address ⁄ 6 Kenham Court, Salisbury Road, New BrightonDescription ⁄ A modern gas centrally heated double glazed second floor flat decorated throughout to an excellent standard. Located in a well established area convenient for all local amenities.

The property comprises of hall, L shaped lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom with shower. Allocated parking. MUST BE VIEWED.

Rental Price ⁄ £700 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 3Address ⁄ 15 Glebe Road, WallaseyDescription ⁄ An immaculate and tastefully modernised and extended, mature semi detached property in a well established and sought after location close to local amenities. This property offers spacious well laid out accommodation that has been decorated and finished throughout to a very high standard. The property benefits from GCH and DG. The property offers entrance vestibule, entrance hall, WC/cloakroom, lounge, dining room, luxury kitchen with built in appliances and breakfast room. To the first floor there are 3 bedrooms and bathroom comprising of roll top modern bath, walk in shower, basin and WC. Outside there is a rear courtyard area ideal for summer entertaining. The property is also partly furnished. AVAIL BEGIN DECEMBER

Rental Price ⁄ £525 pcm No of Bedrooms ⁄ 2Address ⁄ 12 Town Lane, Little NestonDescription ⁄ A modernised and improved mid terrace cottage in sought after location of Little Neston. Located in part of Village Centre ideal for all amenities. The property benefits from gas central heating system and extensive double glazing. The property offers through lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen with oven and hob, bathroom with shower of the bath and 2 double bedrooms (one with fitted wardrobes) and rear yard. MUST BE VIEWED.

RED HOT RENTALS



RELAXED RENTALSA GUIDE TO….

Why do I need an agent? Why do I need Northwood?With rentals on the up and the ever

increasing popularity of TV programmes

all extolling the ease of buying and

managing a property to let, it is hardly

surprising that many new landlords think

they will automatically fi nd a ‘dream’

long-term tenant. Many fail to anticipate

any of the numerous problems and

pitfalls they could encounter along the

way and expect top source responsible,

neighbourly and honest tenants from the

word go.

In reality, it can often take months to fi nd

a suitable tenant and even then there

can still be problems. What if they decide

to take a holiday one month instead

of paying their rent; or it’s the run up to

Christmas and they need extra cash??

What if they are less than neighbourly

– the last thing you need is calls about

nuisance behaviour or complaints from

the Police. Any one of these issues could

prove to be a headache you just don’t

need.

If an issue becomes a really serious

problem and you have to involve the

law, you will then have the added

worry and expense of costly legal fees

for solicitors and any associated court

action.

This type of action can be hugely costly

and when you add that to the possibility

that rent may not be being received,

landlords could potentially face a

fi nancial nightmare.

L-R:Deryck HighetJoanna Diamond-JonesJoanne TollerVictoria Pritchard

Case Study: Troublesome TenantsEven though Northwood have stringent

tenant vetting systems, with strict

compliancy rules ,every now and then

one ‘bad-apple’ can still slip through the

net.

In late December of last year, the team

let a property to two new tenants on a

fi xed term assured short hold tenancy.

Almost immediately, the offi ce started

to receive complaints from neighbours

about anti-social behaviour and so

initiated the usual procedure and the

tenants were issued with a Section 21

in the February. This order required the

tenants to vacate the property by the

end of June.

Unfortunately the tenants chose not

to abide by the order and so further

legal action had to be taken. After two

further court hearings, papers were fi nally

issued for bailiff action to be enforced.

Eventually after four long months of

wrangling, the tenants fi nally moved out.

During this whole process, as a landlord,

you would have no access to the

property and so know knowledge about

its condition internally.

Platinum Package means Zero CostA complex tenant issue like the one

we have illustrated can take months to

resolve and would cost in excess of £2000

in legal fees. The Northwood Platinum

Rental Scheme protects landlords against

such occurrences and under the terms of

the scheme, all fees would be covered.

The highly experienced Northwood

team would also handle all of the legal

side of the matter; fulfi lling all court

appearances, liaising with the solicitors

and neighbours, ensuring the tenants

are evicted swiftly and generally helping

provide total peace of mind to you the

client.



Recommend a FriendIf you have a friend or a family member who has been unfortunate enough to have had an accident recently…

Just call us now on 0151 647 0000

* Subject to acceptance and terms.

Please send my £100 to:My Name ...............................................My Address .........................................................................................................................................................................My Phone Number ...............................Signed ................................................

My friend/family member who would like to claim and receive £100 is:Name ....................................................Address ...............................................................................................................................................................................Phone ....................................................

I would like to recommend a friend or family member who may have a claim.

I confirm that I have read and agree to the terms.

I have told the person named below that I will receive £100* for my recommendation and they stand to receive £100* too!

✁

✁

✁

By signing this voucher you confirm that you have read and agree the above, that you have not recommended more than 3 friends in the last year you have not obtained client details by any unsolicited visit or call and that you undertake to abide by these terms and to the Solicitors’ Code of Conduct 2007 a copy of which is available on request or is available online at www.sra.org.uk.

Or simply fill in and post back to us at: RMNJ Solicitors, 63 Hamilton Square, Birkenhead CH41 5JF

Use this voucher to claim £100* cash when you recommend them to RMNJ and we take on their claim AND we’ll give them £100* cash too!

Worth

£200 Cash

Quoting ref: VW11

LEGAL

“It is hardly surprising that we are

seeing increasing numbers of

workplace accident claims” says

Ray London-Smith who heads

up the accident claims team at

RMNJ Solicitors Birkenhead.

“Many businesses are struggling

in the current financial climate

and inevitably finding it hard

to keep on top of health and

safety ,leaving their staff at

increased exposure to an injury

in the workplace .”

What can staff realistically

expect? he asks “Well all

employers have to take

sufficient steps to protect you

at work and to make sure that

the way they ask you to do your

job has been properly assessed

as being safe. A lot of that is not

just good practice but simple

common sense.”

“If you are unfortunate enough

to suffer an accident and

are injured at work it is almost

certain that this should not have

happened and your employer

will be at fault.”

But can making a claim actually put your job at risk?This is often a worry but an

experienced injury claims

solicitor like RMNJ can soon put

your mind at rest. “An injury at

work doesn’t suddenly remove

your employment rights” says

Ray “ and often employers

are greatly assisted by the

involvement of an experienced

accident solicitor who can

quickly organise rehabilitation

care to help get that employee

back to work before many of

the problems associated with

long term absence actually

arise”

By law every employer must be

fully insured to cover an injury

claim you make. Employers

understand this and although

many people worry about the

risk of getting sacked for making

a claim, this is in fact very rare .

By instructing a specialist

solicitor early on, arrangements

can often be made for you to

get private medical treatment

such as physiotherapy so you

get back to work and start

earning again before long term

absence forces your employer

to think about finishing you up

on health grounds. You may also

be eligible for interim payments

to cover your mortgage, rent

and the like.

A specialist work claims solicitor

will be able to help you with all

of these things and ensure that

you keep your job and are fully

compensated , getting your

life and finances back on track

quickly and calmly while you just

concentrate on getting better.

RMNJ Solicitors is a firm

Accredited by the Association

of Personal Injury Lawyers, who

are dedicated to fighting for

the rights of injured people and

Ray is recognised by APIL as a

Senior Litigator. RMNJ’s specialist

work accident claims team are

happy to provide free initial

advice to accident victims and

a full no win no fee service.

Simply call 0151 647 0000.

The workplace accident dilemma...

...will a claim put my job at risk?Many businesses are struggling in the current financial climate and inevitably finding it hard to keep on top of health and safety, leaving their staff at increased exposure to an injury in the workplace.

www.rmnj.co.uk



Recommend a FriendIf you have a friend or a family member who has been unfortunate enough to have had an accident recently…

Just call us now on 0151 647 0000

* Subject to acceptance and terms.

Please send my £100 to:My Name ...............................................My Address .........................................................................................................................................................................My Phone Number ...............................Signed ................................................

My friend/family member who would like to claim and receive £100 is:Name ....................................................Address ...............................................................................................................................................................................Phone ....................................................

I would like to recommend a friend or family member who may have a claim.

I confirm that I have read and agree to the terms.

I have told the person named below that I will receive £100* for my recommendation and they stand to receive £100* too!

✁

✁

✁

By signing this voucher you confirm that you have read and agree the above, that you have not recommended more than 3 friends in the last year you have not obtained client details by any unsolicited visit or call and that you undertake to abide by these terms and to the Solicitors’ Code of Conduct 2007 a copy of which is available on request or is available online at www.sra.org.uk.

Or simply fill in and post back to us at: RMNJ Solicitors, 63 Hamilton Square, Birkenhead CH41 5JF

Use this voucher to claim £100* cash when you recommend them to RMNJ and we take on their claim AND we’ll give them £100* cash too!

Worth

£200 Cash

Quoting ref: VW11

LEGAL

“It is hardly surprising that we are

seeing increasing numbers of

workplace accident claims” says

Ray London-Smith who heads

up the accident claims team at

RMNJ Solicitors Birkenhead.

“Many businesses are struggling

in the current financial climate

and inevitably finding it hard

to keep on top of health and

safety ,leaving their staff at

increased exposure to an injury

in the workplace .”

What can staff realistically

expect? he asks “Well all

employers have to take

sufficient steps to protect you

at work and to make sure that

the way they ask you to do your

job has been properly assessed

as being safe. A lot of that is not

just good practice but simple

common sense.”

“If you are unfortunate enough

to suffer an accident and

are injured at work it is almost

certain that this should not have

happened and your employer

will be at fault.”

But can making a claim actually put your job at risk?This is often a worry but an

experienced injury claims

solicitor like RMNJ can soon put

your mind at rest. “An injury at

work doesn’t suddenly remove

your employment rights” says

Ray “ and often employers

are greatly assisted by the

involvement of an experienced

accident solicitor who can

quickly organise rehabilitation

care to help get that employee

back to work before many of

the problems associated with

long term absence actually

arise”

By law every employer must be

fully insured to cover an injury

claim you make. Employers

understand this and although

many people worry about the

risk of getting sacked for making

a claim, this is in fact very rare .

By instructing a specialist

solicitor early on, arrangements

can often be made for you to

get private medical treatment

such as physiotherapy so you

get back to work and start

earning again before long term

absence forces your employer

to think about finishing you up

on health grounds. You may also

be eligible for interim payments

to cover your mortgage, rent

and the like.

A specialist work claims solicitor

will be able to help you with all

of these things and ensure that

you keep your job and are fully

compensated , getting your

life and finances back on track

quickly and calmly while you just

concentrate on getting better.

RMNJ Solicitors is a firm

Accredited by the Association

of Personal Injury Lawyers, who

are dedicated to fighting for

the rights of injured people and

Ray is recognised by APIL as a

Senior Litigator. RMNJ’s specialist

work accident claims team are

happy to provide free initial

advice to accident victims and

a full no win no fee service.

Simply call 0151 647 0000.

The workplace accident dilemma...

...will a claim put my job at risk?Many businesses are struggling in the current financial climate and inevitably finding it hard to keep on top of health and safety, leaving their staff at increased exposure to an injury in the workplace.

www.rmnj.co.uk

Infl ation ran at the Bank of England’s

intended target of 2 percent, the

sum of £100,000 would be worth

£67,297 in real terms 20 years later.

At 4 percent the real value would

drop to £45,639, while at 5 percent

the original sum of £100,000 would be

worth just £37,689 in 20 years’ time.

Basic rate taxpayers need to earn

interest of 5.25 percent on their

savings in order to make a real return

on their money once CPI infl ation

is taken into account. Higher rate

taxpayers are in an even worse

position, needing returns of 7 percent

to stop the value of their deposits

being shrunk by infl ation.

In infl ationary times, when the real

value of level income payments

is eroded over a few years, it

is important to fi nd good and

increasing sources of investment

income.

In the current infl ationary

environment the yields from gilts

in real terms offer few attractions.

Opportunities for attractive income

still exist in the corporate bond

market, however investors are having

to be increasingly selective.

The key for investors is to hold a

portfolio of funds which offers the

fl exibility to exploit the selective

income opportunities from across the

corporate bond spectrum.

One of the most effi cient ways to

beat infl ation over the longer terms is

to invest in the stock market and take

advantage of the dividends paid

by companies. After a couple of

leaner years in the teeth of recession,

the earnings of UK companies are

looking far more healthy. On the

back of those profi ts the outlook for

dividends is more positive. History

shows that returns on equities can

beat infl ation and dividends can

play an important part in this.

Diversifi cation is also key in balancing

risk and returns. For instance,

commodities (such as those linked

to food infl ation) might be bale to

play a role in a balanced portfolio,

so it is worth seeking out funds

which invest in so-called ‘alternative

assets’. Another income producing

asset, commercial property is also

beginning to attract attention again.

Returns are up 9.1 percent over

the 12 months to the end of June

(Source: IPD UK Monthly Property

Index Results, June 2011). Again

history suggests that commercial

property has a place in a portfolio

and its long term track record is

strong, while it offers diversifi cation

from equities.

Infl ation also brings particular

problems for people about to retire

because even a low level of infl ation

will seriously dent pensioners’ fi xed

incomes over a number of years.

Infl ation and uncertainty go hand

in hand, but it is even more marked

given the current economic turmoil.

It is why investors are going to have

to explore all the options to make

the most from their savings and

investment – and maybe taking a

step up the risk ladder.

Investing in infl ationary timesInfl ation can cause havoc for your personal fi nances as it erodes the real

value of our money over time. Not surprisingly, research shows that as many

as nine out of 10 people are worried about the effects it can have on their

money (Source: Post Offi ce Savings, June 2011)

Partners in Managing your Wealth

Where suCCessFul Wealth ManageMent is siMPly Par For the Course

Iain MacLavertyPartner of the st. James’s Place Partnership

[email protected] www.iainmaclaverty.co.uk

Tel: 0151 632 2926

Please call

0151 632 2926 to

request a complimentary

guide to Wealth Management.

We have the knowledge to help you successfully secure and enhance your financial future by offering specialist solutions in a wide range of areas including:

• WealthManagement • InvestmentPlanning• InheritanceTaxPlanning • RetirementPlanning

st. James’s Place is one of the uK’s leading Wealth Management groups - voted Best Wealth Manager 2008 and 2009 by readers of the investors Chronicle and Ft as well as Wealth Manager of the year 2007, 2008 and 2010 by readers of the Daily telegraph.

if you would like to find out more about how our investment approach could work for youinthecurrentmarket,orhowInheritanceTaxisstillaffectingmanypeopleintheuK, then contact your local office below to receive a complimentary guide to Wealth Management, or arrange a consultation.

To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth

Management, Retirement Planning or Inheritance

Tax Planning, produced by St. James’s Place

Wealth Management, contact Iain MacLaverty,

partner of the St James’s Place Partnership on 0151

632 2926, by email [email protected] or

visit www.iainmaclaverty.co.uk.

BUSINESS

Iain Maclavertyfrom St James Place

Wealth Management


Comprehensive CareCosmetic & Implant Dentistry

Call 0151 353 8943

ali Jagger Personal wellness and weight loss

coach and Sue France of Forward ladies with

the Forward ladies

The Hollyoakes girls

ali Jagger Personal wellness

and weight loss coach

ali Jagger with weight loss

winner iris O’Brien

Hollyoakes Ball at chester racecourse

Kirwans ladies lunch at The Olive Press

Sylvain longchambon and

Jennifer metcalfe

clare ellison of Kirwans, mariusz Holboy of The Olive

Press, mandy molby wirral witches and michelle

Stevenson of Kirwans

Olive Press Sous chef, mariusz Holboy, with

Hollyoaks actress alex Fletcher

Jorgie Porter

Forward ladies event at John lewis

The Hollyoakes Boys


natalie Browns 18th



Comprehensive CareCosmetic & Implant Dentistry

Call 0151 353 8943

malmaison Partyadam Bell (malmaison) lorraine mcculloch

Brooke vincent & Sacha Parkinson

Tina O’Brien

Paula Brown & alison Hunter

Daniel rennox and Sophie Brown

Sinead moynihan & michelle Keegan

Sarah Jayne Dunn

Paula Brown - editor view magazine 40th Birthday at The wro lounge

Urbane’s 1st Birthday

alison Hunter & Odette mcBride

Jeanie macleod & Paula

Houston & Philip Smith

Urbane Hoylake

Daniel rennox and

alison HunterPaula & Sue Haunch

Odette mcBride & Sue Haunch

martin malone canter levin &

Berg Solicitors with Paula

Paula with Daniel rennox & Sally Boyd


JACK NICHOLSONRUSSEL BRANDWARREN BEATTY

OLIVER REEDJAMES HEWITTCOLIN FARRELL

FAGEN

Coming Soon To West Kirby

Rogues?

rogue

Merseyside’s Best Bar.Something to celebrate this Autumn.

The Wro | Northwest House | Grange Road | West Kirby | Wirral CH48 4DY

emai l in [email protected] te lephone 0151 625 2010

www.the-wro.co.uk | Bookings can be made via our website

Bar Loft Lounge







This fabulous award places us in the top 10% of Restaurants in the UK; not only that,we are also the only Hotel Restaurant in Merseyside with 3 AA Rosettes.


view wirral home edition 2011

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