best of liverpool magazine - october 2012

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OF LIVERPOOL OCTOBER ISSUE 2012 FORCES’ FASHION // BIKRAM YOGA // MAGIC MAKE-UP // PENDLE WITCH HUNT // FERRY ‘CROSS THE MERSEY // COOL KIDS’ CLOTHES // NATIONAL CURRY WEEK // WIN VOGUE BALL TICKETS AND HORROR DVDS A spooktacular to remember Breast Cancer Awareness Month WINNERS COLDSET COLOUR SUPPLEMENT OF THE YEAR! SUPPLEMENT THE CREEPSHOW TRICK OR TREAT? THINK PINK Masters of macabre experience a fright fest on the farm Mastermind behind The Fab Four EPSTEIN’S STORY

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Best of Liverpool Magazine, featuring fashion, places, faces, food, beauty, homes, travel and what's on in Merseyside

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Page 1: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

O F L I V E R P O O LOCTOBER ISSUE 2012

FORCES’ FASHION//BIKRAM YOGA//MAGIC MAKE-UP//PENDLE WITCH HUNT// FERRY ‘CROSS THE MERSEY//COOL KIDS’ CLOTHES//NATIONAL CURRY WEEK//

WINVOGUE BALL TICKETS

AND HORROR DVDS

A spooktacular to remember

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

W I N N E R S COLDSET COLOUR SUPPLEMENT OF THE YEAR!S U P P L E M E N T

THE CREEPSHOW

TRICK OR TREAT?

THINK PINK

Masters of macabre experience a fright fest on the farm

Mastermind behind The Fab Four

EPSTEIN’S STORY

Page 2: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

02 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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Page 3: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

OCTOBER looks set to be a spooktastic month with all kinds of Halloween events happening throughout the city.

At Best of Liverpool, we have two talented colleagues Ilan Sheady and Sharon Davies, who are hooked on horror movies and, in their spare time, are presenters for website horrortalk.com

So, to get into the spirit of Halloween we thought it would be great fun to take them to the haunted attraction Farmageddon in Ormskirk and dress them up as ghoulish characters for our front cover.

It was certainly an experience which will be firmly etched on my mind. The haunted houses and memories of the ‘green room’ where all the crazy costumes are kept (the former piggery!) still sends shivers down my spine and I have nightmares of getting lost down the maze of blood splattered corridors, fighting my way through pretend pig carcasses trying to find the rest of them during the middle of the photoshoot!

Big thanks go to farm owner Mark Edwards and Richard Cottier, the man behind Farmageddon who happily picked out scary costumes and spent hours creating macabre make-up effects and fake wounds on our game models. And another big thanks goes to Graham Fletcher-Hill who kindly and expertly took the photos.

Don’t miss our Halloween guide to all things ghoulish on pages 20-23.

Elsewhere in this month’s edition, Sue has plenty of sartorial inspiration for him and her on pages 6-8 and you’ll love the adorable pictures of Connie and Michael

who modelled the latest fashions from Kids’ Cavern for us on pages 10-11.

If you’re attending the Vogue Ball this year, we have some fabulous make-up tips on page 13 to fit in with this year’s Twisted Fairytales theme and if you prefer your beauty products au natural, see page 12.

As October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, page 14 is devoted to all things pink and, on page 15, Katie gets hot under the collar about Bikram yoga.

Marketeer Bill Elms talks about the new play he is co-producing, Epstein, on pages 16-17. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for things to do this month read our what’s on guide on page 18. A trip on the Mersey Ferry is always great fun for the family – find out what my kids and I got up to on page 19.

It’s National Curry Week in October and Paul serves up some authentic Indian recipes on page 24, while we toast the new James Bond film Skyfall with some marvellous Martinis on page 25.

Also in this edition, Sarah gets wined and dined at Fahrenheit Bar and Grill, while Katie talks Italian food on page 27.

Sue travels all over the world in search of stylish homewares on pages 28-29 while Rich makes his annual pilgrimage to Pendle in hunt of the infamous witches on page 30.

Happy Halloween!

03BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12Contents

Welcome...

O F L I V E R P O O L

BESTGET IN TOUCH

NEWS04-05 TALK OF THE TOWNCity news and gossip

FASHION06-07 SHOPPING FOR HERMarch into military style08 SHOPPING FOR HIMBlockbuster rocks10-11 SHOPPING FOR KIDSTots on trend

BEAUTY12 NATURAL BEAUTYChemical-free skincare13 MAGICAL MAKE-UPYou shall go to the (Vogue) Ball!

HEALTH & FITNESS14 THINK PINKBreast Cancer Awareness Month15 HOT STUFFFeel the heat with Bikram yoga

ENTERTAINMENT16- 17 EPSTEIN STORYBill Elms puts his new play in the spotlight18 THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO SEEOctober’s must-see events 19 FERRY FUNA grand day out with the children

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL20-21 TERROR ON THE FARMInterview with horror movie buffs Ilan Sheady and Sharon Davies 22-23 FRIGHT FESTThe man behind Farmageddon

FOOD & DRINK24 SPICE IT UPCurry favour with these Indian recipes 25 SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED 00 heaven, with Bond’s favourite tipple26-27 TASTE TESTS Fahrenheit Bar and Grill and Michelangelo’s

HOMES & GARDENS28-29 INTERNATIONAL INTERIORSEastern delights and French fancy

TRAVEL30 WITCH HUNTA trip to Pendle

STORIES 0151 330 5035EMAIL [email protected] 0151 330 5039

WEBSITE www.bestofliverpool.comFOLLOW US twitter@BestofLpool

WINNERS: COLDSET COLOUR SUPPLEMENT OF THE YEAR!

06 16

22

28 24

THE 2012 NEWSPAPER AWARD

Michelle Rushton,Best of Liverpool Editor

LIVERPOOL ECHO EDITOR Alastair Machray

MAGAZINE EDITORMichelle Rushton

DEPUTY EDITORKatie McLoughlin

WRITERS Paul Baker, Sarah Hooley, Sue Kelbrick, Richard Lackey and Katie McLoughlin

PHOTOGRAPHY Trinity Mirror photographers

FRONT COVERCourtesy of Graham Fletcher-Hill

of Fletcherhill Photography

DESIGNVicky Andrews and Colin Harrison

COMMERCIAL FEATURES EDITORSally Jones

SALES MANAGER Ros McGuire

COPYRIGHTBest of Liverpool is published monthly by

Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales/Liverpool ECHO. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of

the publisher.

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Page 4: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

04 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Talk of the town

TANTALISING OUR TASTEBUDS

WITH the last few weeks seeing tor-rential rain worthy of Noah giving his ark an outing, we’ve been brightening up our palates with a taste of sunnier climes at Hard Days Night Hotel. The Beatles themed hotel has

added a ‘Fixing a Hole’ menu to its food offering, which sees tapas and charcuterie dishes served from 6pm until 10pm.The menu, which offers five tapas

dishes for £20, is packed with flavours of the Far East and Mediterranean and we’ve been loving tantalising our tastebuds with tapas dishes like falafel with mint and yoghurt dip, Thai fish cakes, chicken satay skewers, teriyaki king prawns and, our favourite dish, potato bravas with fried egg, chorizo and spicy pico de gallo salsa.

PRETTY PALETTES

A NEW season means new beauty looks and, having had a sneak peek at Bobbi Brown’s latest range of palettes, we will be first in the queue to snap up these little beauties when they hit counters on October 14. For day-to-night looks we heart the

new, limited edition Uber Nude Lip & Eye Palette, £36, a mini palette featuring a nude glitter lip gloss, ‘blushed heather’ glitter lip gloss, uber beige lip colour and three nude eyeshadow shades. For glamour on the go, we’ve been lusting after the limited

edition Bellini Lip & Eye Palette, £59. A new, double-decker compact, it features 10 fabulous eye-shadows and four flirty lip shades, plus a mini lip and mini eye-shadow brush. It’s the perfect palette for any make-up lovers.The Christmas gift sets and party palettes hit the Bobbi

Brown counter in John Lewis, Liverpool ONE, on October 14. Form an orderly queue behind us please.

BEAUTIFYING CHOCOLATE

CHOCOLATE that has beauty benefits? Really? Well then, bring it on.

You don’t have to ask the Best of team twice when chocolate is on offer and Organic Seed & Bean’s extra dark chocolate proved a bit of a hit.

We sampled the Mandarin & Ginger bar, which boasts over 70% cocoa content, rich in antioxidants called flavonols.

Word is, the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that regular consumption of flavanol rich chocolate resulted in skin protection from UV damage. Then, the Journal of Nutrition reckoned flavonols in dark chocolate helped improve skin thickness and hydration.

Plus, apparently, cocoa helps to reduce stress hormones, which equals less collagen breakdown in the skin and may mean fewer wrinkles!

Are we grasping at straws here? Whatever, pass round the extra dark choc. Yum!

Katie McLoughlin and Paul Baker delve into the city’s social diary and reveal what’s been happening recently....

A CUT ABOVE THE REST

ANDaboutOutFOODIES turned out in their thousands last month for the fifth annual Liverpool Food & Drink Festival. Over 30,000 food lovers descended onto a surpris-

ingly sunny Sefton Park for the launch event on September 1-2. Festival-goers, including Best of Liverpool, tucked into gorgeous grub from over 70 of the city’s restaurants, bars and cafés, as well as delights from 50 local producers. As well as exhibitors and producers, there was a

feast of other culinary highlights to enjoy – including a display from some of the country’s leading choco-latiers, a pop-up restaurant by London Carriage Works, and a real ale festival by iconic city pub, Ship & Mitre. Other highlights included Wirral-born presenter of

The Great British Bake Off, Paul Hollywood, judging the ‘Great Merseyside Bake Off’ competition; Malay-sian chef Norman Musa running free cookery classes and a feast of celebrity chefs showcasing their skills, including Tom Kitchen, Lisa Faulkner, The Fabulous Baker Brothers, Jay Tinker, Kevin Woodford and Aiden Byrne. After captivating a packed-out Culinary Talent Tent

with his gourmet take on a beef hotpot, Wirral-born chef and star of The Great British Menu, Aiden Byrne took to the BBQ on the stand for his Church Green restaurant, whipping up delicious burgers for some lucky festival-goers.

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD

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We’re loving...

FIN-TASTIC FILM SCREENINGFILM fans got a rather special treat last month, as Spielberg’s cult-classic, Jaws, was shown on the big screen courtesy of Jameson Cult Film Club on October 13. Rather aptly for a film about an oceanic monster,

the special film screening took place in the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Over 500 Liverpool film fans attended the event

which saw Jameson host a 70s-inspired beach party on ‘Amity Island’ (aka the Albert Dock) before the blockbuster was shown in the museum.

IT’S time to celebrate for Hillbark Hotel & Spa as the staff and owners celebrate their biggest accolade to date – being named the only five-star rated hotel in the Liverpool city region.The lavish Grade

II-listed hotel was awarded five stars following an inspection by the AA Tourism Authority.The boutique manor is also the smallest hotel to be

awarded five stars in the UK. It is set in 250 acres of beautiful Wirral parkland, overlooking the Dee estuary. It boasts eight individually designed bedrooms and suites, a luxurious spa, and a choice of three restaurants, including fine dining courtesy of award-winning executive chef, Stewart Warner.

FIVE STARS FOR HILLBARK

LEADING city hairdressers, Voodou, was celebrating last month after picking up a gong for its cutting-edge website at the pres-tigious British Hairdressing Business Awards. The national awards praise the best in the industry with 15 different categories designed to recognise and reward excel-lence and exceptional business practice within the hairdressing industry. Voodou won the Website of the Year award for its use of social marketing to promote last minute offers for services at a snip of the full price and its new online booking system.Managing director of the city salon chain, Rob Webb, went to the

London ceremony to receive the award. He says: “We really are having an amazing year at Voodou and this award is the icing on the cake for us. Everyone is so happy to win such a prestigious award within the industry and all of the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes has been worthwhile.”

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Page 5: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

SOME of the world’s most underprivileged children will see the benefits of a donation from Everton in the Community.Over 100 of the Blues’ unused junior home

shirts and training kit from last season have been donated to Global Hope, Liverpool Hope University’s charity.The kits will be taken to some of the

poorest areas in the world by students who volunteer for the charity. In September, a team of students and staff led by Professor Bill Chambers, Pro Vice-Chancellor Emeritus, travelled with shirts and other supplies to Uganda to work in the YES Aids Orphanage, in Fort Portal, for children whose parents have died from AIDS.While there, the students ran a programme

of sports days as the country continues to celebrate its first ever Olympic gold medal.

05BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

TASTE OF HOPE STREET

SEXY NETWORKING

EVERTON SPREAD HOPE AROUND THE GLOBE

DOWNTOWN Liverpool in Business held its 50th ‘Sexy Networking’ event at PlayGround, in the Hilton, last month. Over 200 of the region’s most prominent

business people attended the high profile event at the stylish celebrity night club. Guests enjoyed cocktails and canapés, while the DJ kept guests entertained at the glitzy party.

CELEBRITY chef Marco Pierre White was in Liverpool on September 13 to host a lunch and dinner event at his Steakhouse Bar & Grill in Hotel Indigo, and one amateur chef, Chantal Gunga, won the opportunity to cook for him.

Budding chefs were asked to suggest their ideal menu and say why they wanted to cook for Marco in an online competition on the restaurant’s website. Chantal was selected from over 100 entries with her winning menu featuring Lancashire rarebit with chutney, followed by Flatiron steak with creamed celeriac and redcurrant jus, finished with pineapple upside down cake.

Before meeting Marco, Chantal spent the day in Marco’s Liverpool kitchen with head chef, Chris Jones, who helped her perfect her dishes before the Hell’s Kitchen star arrived.

Marco Pierre White says: “It’s always very daunting, even for myself, to cook in a kitchen which you’re not used to and to cook

for someone you’ve never met before who is going to pass comment on your food. But I was very impressed with Chantal.

“She’s got a nice touch and I liked the simplicity of her dishes and her honesty about her technical ability. You can tell she has watched a lot of television shows and has worked very hard at doing it.”

Food lovers who attended the sell-out lunch and dinner service with Marco, enjoyed a three-course meal and received a signed Marco apron.

COOKING FOR MARCOTHOUSANDS of city foodies headed to Hope Street on September 16 to get their grub on at Hope Street Feast. The city centre street was packed as

foodies and families alike explored the myriad of stalls and got a taste for everything that Hope Street has to offer – from food to culture. As well as food galore and a host of

alfresco dining areas, there were madcap street theatre performances to enjoy, plus music on various outdoor stages, unplugged gigs in Liverpool Philharmonic Hall’s Rodewald Suite and an indoor live music stage in Hope Street Hotel. This year also saw Vasily Petrenko

return to the feast to conduct the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in two free performances as part of the open day at Liverpool Philharmonic. Plus, there were dance workshops at

Merseyside Dance Initiative, an arts and crafts fair at Blackburne House and much, much more.

EH, WALL, PAULINE’S GOT A CAKE!AFTER 21 years of talking to the wall playing the original desperate Scouse wife – Shirley Valentine – Pauline Daniels was honoured at St Helens Theatre Royal last month.The actress has starred in many productions

of Willy Russell’s classic comedy and made the part her own. To celebrate her 21st year of playing Shirley,

the Birkenhead-born actress and comedienne was presented with a special anniversary cake at St Helens Theatre Royal last month, where she starred in the only 2012 production of Shirley Valentine.

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Page 6: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

06 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Shopping for her

THIS season the catwalks were ambushed by army-inspired fashions with designers such as Donna Karan, Jason Wu, Alexander Wang and Tommy Hilfiger, all joining up to embrace the trend.

According to Harper’s Bazaar, the military look is

a “winning strategy” this season, and, as usual, the high street has wasted no time in picking up on the military trend with strong tailoring, structured fabrics and gorgeous detailing such as epaulettes, gold buttons and leather accessories, invading shops everywhere.

NOTHING TO WEAR?

New fashion armySue Kelbrick gets her marching orders and checks out the latest in military-style fashion

IF you have ever stood in front of your bulging wardrobe and uttered the immor-tal words, “I have nothing to wear!” then don’t worry – your salvation is here.

Author of self-help style bible, Nothing to Wear, Nicola Cupples has many years ex-perience as a personal stylist and shopper and has dressed hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes.

She says: “I decided to write this book to help women discover the reasons why they have nothing to wear, and then provide them with the necessary style solutions. I want to share this so that I can help women to become their own personal stylist and gain more postive results from their wardrobe.”

The book covers everything from finding out what your body shape is, the best way to dress to flatter your body shape and how to cope with life changes such as hav-ing a baby or weight loss or gain, as well as some invaluable insider stylist tips.

No self-respecting fashionista should be seen without it and in Nicola’s own words, “there is no perfect figure but there can be the perfect wardrobe...”

Nothing to Wear is available from Amazon and costs £4.99.

Button detail Italian fabric jacket, £199, satin crepe jumpsuit, £140, quince shoes, £120, all Somerset by Alice Temperley, with John Lewis wool beret, £15, from John Lewis

Black patent boot, £21.99, from getthelabel.com

Red military jacket, £13, from Primark

Lurex baker boy hat, £14, from M&Co

D Pow handbag, £50, from Dune

Hat, £19.50, Limited Collection jumper, £29.50, Limited Collection trousers, £19.50, roll neck, £69, boots, £75, bag, £129, belt, £15, from M&S

Palomino military-style boots, £150, from Jones the Bootmaker

Military coat, £35, from George at Asda

Page 7: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

OCTOBER 12

07BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Flat lace up ankle boots, £95, from La Redoute

Buckle felt cap, £24, from Accessorize

Military coat, £70, from Next

Coat, £35, trousers, £14, boots, £28 and bag, £12.50, from F&F at Tesco

Fur cossack-style hat, £109, from Plumo

Black satchel handbag, £23.99, from A-Shu

Maple bag, £149, from NW3 by Hobbs

Lace boot, £110, from Office

Military coat by Ben de Lisi, £99, from Principles at Debenhams

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Page 8: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

SO what the heck is a blockbuster coat anyway? Well, it’s a coat that demands to be looked at. It forces

the eyes to stare and shows the wearer is a confident and expressive individual.

Anyone who thought it was a jacket styled on the fashion of the late Bob Holness go and stand at the back of the class!

So what else is in, I hear you cry? Well, if you tend to go for blacks and dark blues when you’re out shopping then you’re in luck, because this season allows everyone to indulge their inner Edward Scissorhands.

If you love jumpers dark enough to impress the lead singer of The Cure, you’ll fit right in when the snow comes down this winter.

And if all that wasn’t enough, you can get your leathers out and accessorise. No, not those leathers, Mr Grey!

Shopping for him

08 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Men’s autumn and winter wear attacks with blockbuster coats that grab the eye and cool darker shades, says Paul Baker

OCTOBER 12

ROCK THE BLOCK

Brown Borg Collar Peacoat, £85, from TopMan

Leather despatch watch bag, £90, from Fat Face

Black leather gloves, £12, from Matalan

ATM barker boot, £69.99, from Office

Gents ultra slim stainless steel brown leather strap watch, £189, from Rotary Watches

Coat, £35; suit jacket, £30; suit trousers, £15; shirt, £36; tie, £2; flat cap, £3; boots, £15, from Primark

TMD Black Pony Hair Biker, £225, from TopMan

J by Jasper Conran trousers, £40, from Debenhams

Grey textured duffle coat, £85, from Burton

Jumper by Rocha.John Rocha, £60, from Debenhams

Space dyed cable shawl neck, £50, from Burton

Page 9: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

09BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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Page 10: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

10 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Children

Left, Connie wears: Elsy polka dot dress, £106; Elsy polka dot jacket, £78; Miss Grant ruffle shirt, £68; and Simone diamond/bow shoe, £53-£55

WITH both temperatures and leaves starting to fall, autumn is the time to invest in some stylish new clothes that’ll see your little ones stay smart whatever the weather.

Autumn is something of a transitional season, so layers are a savvy sartorial purchase.

“Hoodies with a gilet over and jeans is the big trend for boys this autumn,” says Tracey Shelvey, from Kids’ Cavern in Cavern Walks.

“With the cold weather, outerwear and hoodies are big sellers at the moment, with Armani jeans, long-sleeve Ralph Lauren polo tops, Moncler padded gilets and Barbour quilted jackets all very popular for boys.”

Gilets are also a key look for girls this season, worn with leggings, a long-sleeve top and a skirt.

Tracey adds: “For girls up to the age of 10, it’s Italian brands that are really popular, especially co-ordinated outfits – with a skirt, a top and a jacket all from the same brand which match.

“Supertrash, a label started by a Dutch footballer’s wife, is also really popular as it does mini-me versions of its women’s range for girls.”

Here are some of the latest trends for little ones to arrive at Kids’ Cavern in Cavern Walks...

It’s not just grown-ups who get to play with fashion, says Katie McLoughlin, as she takes a look at autumn’s trends for children

Too cool for school

Connie

MichaelLeft, Michael wears: Stone Island red gilet, £156; Stone Island navy long sleeved T-shirt, £44; Stone Island navy combats, £122; and D&G navy shoes, £142

Above, Michael wears: Moncler navy coat, £374; Moncler cream polo, £61; Moncler navy hat, £48; Moncler navy shoes, £145; and Armani jeans, £64. Connie wears: Monnalisa Tom & Jerry long-sleeve top, £62; Monnalisa beige skirt, £85; Monnalisa leopard leggings, £45; Sylvian Heach gilet, £60; Miss Grant beige hat, £42; and Andanines brown boots, £49-£55

Page 11: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

11BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

MODELS: Connie Patten and Michael Bolton

CLOTHING: All clothing courtesy of Kids’ Cavern in Cavern Walks, Mathew Street, www.kidscavern.co.uk, tel: 0151 236 5378

PHOTOGRAPHER: Robin Clewley Photography, www.robinclewley.co.uk, tel: 07745716793

HAIR: Hair from So Coco Rouge, 5 Old Haymarket, Manchester Street, Liverpool, L1 6ER, www.sococorouge.com, tel: 0151 708 7245

LOCATION: Little Liverpool – a dedicated gallery for children aged six and under in the Museum of Liverpool on the Pier Head. The perfect place to inspire young minds, Little Liverpool features a Liverpool-themed water interactive play area; a multi-sensory area called The Liver Bird’s Nest; a computer station where children can create their own ‘Merseyfriend’ to swim through a river on a giant plasma screen, and an interactive A to Z of objects from the museum’s collections. www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk, tel: 0151 478 4545

Monnalisa cream top with red bow, £348; Monnalisa polka dot skirt, £124; and Supertrash red wellies, £39

Burberry navy coat, £177; Burberry navy cardigan, £85; Burberry grey T-shirt, £29; Burberry navy chinos, £57; and Fendi navy boots, £165

Below, Michael wears: Moncler cream polo, £61; Armani jeans, £64; and Moncler navy shoes, £64. Connie wears: Sylvian Heach gilet, £60; Monnalisa Tom & Jerry long-sleeved top, £62; Monnalisa beige skirt, £85; Monnalisa leopard leggings, £45; and Andanines brown fur boot, £49-£55

THE LOWDOWN

Page 12: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

12 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

FROM supermodel Miranda Kerr to Hollywood starlet Jessica Alba, there are a growing list of celebs said to be switching their allegiance to natural beauty products. And, with a huge range of benefits it’s easy to see why.

Sami Blackford, founder of holistic skincare company Freyaluna, who is exhibiting at the Allergy and Free From Show North in the BT Convention Centre on October 27-28, explains why she believes natural is best.

“So many people don’t realise the effects of chemicals found in some mass produced skincare products,” she says. “Quite a lot of today’s skin complaints – acne, eczema, sensitivity – can actually be caused, and certainly exacerbated by the chemicals we apply to our skin.

“I have so many customers who tell me that they have sensitive skin.

“When I ask about the products they use, they run off a list of items all of which contain chemicals, detergents, and preservatives which are there to extend the life of the product, make it a pretty colour, or make it smell nice.

“And that’s quite often the answer to their problem. The chemicals in the products that they’re using are actually causing the sensitivity.”

She adds: “Natural products, like the ones we make at Freyaluna, never contain harsh chemicals or preservatives, and are

Sarah Hooley discovers why so many people are turning to natural skincare...

As nature intended... Beauty

simply packed full of natural ingredients to help you achieve naturally beautiful, healthy skin.

“They are designed and formulated to not only look, feel and smell good, but to do good to your skin as well.

“And, even though some natural skincare products can be seen as expensive, they’re actually really good value for money; not only do you get a premium product, you also get a product that will go a long way.”

A selection of Freyaluna beauty products, from www.freyaluna.co.uk

Above, Marigold & Bergamot handmade herbal soap, £2.95; left, Try Me selection box, £11.95, from Freyaluna

Embrace Your Age daily essentials facial kit, £24.50, from Freyaluna

Page 13: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

WITH the Vogue Ball coming up this weekend, clubbers and fashionistas will be putting the final touches to their outlandish outfits.

This annual event, organised by renowned Liverpool dance company House of Suarez, will strut its stuff at Camp and Furnace this Saturday, October 6.

Each year, vogue teams (known as ‘houses’) come together from far and wide to compete for dance supremacy, wearing creative costumes that are often as lavish as Cinderella’s ball-gown!

This year’s event has a Twisted Fairytales theme which will see dancers and even some audience members turn traditional storybook characters into wild alter egos!

It promises to be the most outrageous and extravagant Vogue Ball to date, and audiences are in for a bewitching display of favourite fairytale characters releasing their inner diva, hosted by the annual father of Liverpool’s Vogue Ball Rikki Beadle-Blair.

This evening of debauched magic will turn the city’s most happening new venue into a catwalk spectacular reminiscent of 1970s-80s New York (the home of the vogue dance style) at its most glamorous.

The Vogue Ball judging panel will put the contestants through their paces on the night and includes celebrity dressmaker Thelma Madine (Big Fat Gypsy Weddings) and our very own Liverpool ECHO clubs editor, Emma Johnson. Joining them will be Dean Murphy, one of the original 1980s ‘voguers’ on the Liverpool club scene and Anton Stephens, a West End actor and singer.

If you are planning to unleash your inner diva at the Vogue Ball this year, then cult British beauty brand Illamasqua has kindly supplied some Twisted Fairytale make-up tips to complement your crazy costume.

The company, which has stores

in Liverpool, London and Leeds, specialises in creating ‘make up for your alter ego’ which is perfect for this year’s theme and it runs beauty courses and tutorials through its School of Make-up Art, earning it the CoolBrands® status in 2011.

Illamasqua’s professional make-up artists will also be on hand at the ball to apply make-up for the contestants.

In the meantime, you can create your own look with this photo guide.

For more information visit www.illamasqua.com and to win tickets to the Vogue Ball, see our competition on page 19.

Be the fairest of them all at the Vogue Ball with these beauty tips, courtesy of Illamasqua

Magical make-up

OCTOBER 12

13BEST OF LIVERPOOL

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO FAIRYTALE MAKE- UP

1. Focus in on foundation with high-lighting and contouring.

2. Define brows to shape the face.

3. For eyeshadow, smoke it out and keep the colours vivid with plenty of pigment.

4. Eyeliner should be flicked out at the end to elongate the eye shape and open up the eye.

5. For lips, use pencil all over then ap-ply a lip colour on top which helps to keep the colour in place and stay true for longer.

1

3

5

Page 14: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

FROM hot pink lipsticks to gorgeous lingerie, it’s time to hit the shops and help raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October! As part of the event, a number

of well-known brands and high street stores will be making a donation to breast cancer charities when you buy one of their limited edition products. So, if you’re searching for a

gift that keeps on giving, or a little treat for yourself look no further. Who said shopping wasn’t worthwhile?! Here are our picks of the

pinks...

14 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Health & fitness

Sarah Hooley discovers how you can do your bit for Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October...

JOIN THE FUNDRAISING CHALLENGE

THINK PINK

Turn your Fridays pink THIS October, Breast Cancer Care is encouraging people to liven up their Fridays by turning the day ‘pink’! A great way to support the 50,000 people who are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK every year, the ‘Pink Fridays’ fundraising campaign will be asking everyone to wear pink, eat pink or party pink. Money raised will help fund vital services, such as the charity’s helpline, information points in hospitals and face-to-face services for people who have been diagnosed

with breast cancer. Having a ‘Pink Friday’ is easy to do and can include anything from wearing pink in the office, to a pink pamper party with your mates at home to getting your class to wear pink to school.

To register for a free Pink Fridays fundraising kit, call 0870 164 9422 or visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Best foot forward IT’S expected that over a thousand people will take part in the Mersey Walk of Hope, Friday, October 26 – so why not dust off your trainers and join them? Raising money for The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and Liverpool Unites for Alder Hey, the moonlit walk is now in its second year and walkers can choose from a 5km or 10km route, starting from Liverpool’s Pier Head. Juice FM and the West African Drummer Band will be on

hand to keep everyone entertained, plus there will be fire-eaters and a special dance warm-up. The money raised will help Clatterbridge cancer patients across the region. Registration costs £10 for adults and £5 for children.

Visit www.clatterbridgecc.org.uk

Fundraising fun THE Lily Centre is holding an exciting charity event to raise money for its breast cancer support group on Sunday, October 21. The event, being held in Envi on Fleet Street, will feature a showcase of local singers, dancers, comedians and a raft of entertainers. There’ll also be raffles with signed merchandise up for grabs from Olly Murs and One Direction, plus prizes from local businesses and hotels. A host of celebrities has also been invited, so you never know who might turn up! The Lily Centre, based in Vauxhall, is run by volunteers who have themselves experienced breast cancer, and aims to provide a friendly place where women and men can meet and gain emotional and physical support. Doors open at 12.30pm until late. Tickets cost £5, including a reception drink and food. For more information visit www.enviliverpool.com and www.lilycentre.org.uk

Miss British Isles, Demi Brady, launches the 2011 Mersey Walk of Hope

Makita pink Li-ion 10.8v drill driver, £84.99, (donation of £5 to Breast Cancer Care) from Makita stockists nationwide

Estée Lauder Evelyn Lauder Dream Compact, £55, (100% of the recommended retail price less VAT during October in the UK will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®), from Estée Lauder counters and www.esteelauder.co.uk

Boux Avenue Lyla bra, £26, and knickers (raspberry and black), £16, (donation of £1 per item to Breast Cancer Care), from www.bouxavenue.com

Tresor Paris La Bande Rose stud earrings, £19 (8mm), and £24 (10mm), (donation of 25% from every sale to Breast Cancer Care) from www.tresorparis.com

Tickled Pink umbrella, £5, (donation of 50p to Breast Cancer Care), from Asda stores nationwide

Breast Cancer Care tartan handbag, £90, (donation of 25% from every sale to Breast Cancer Care), available from www.macgregorandmacduff.co.uk

Boux Avenue mini hot water bottle, £8, (donation of £1 to Breast Cancer Care), available from www.bouxavenue.com

Bobbi Brown Pink Peony Set, RRP £35, (donation of £5 during October to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®), available at Bobbi Brown counters and www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Clinique ‘Pink with a Purpose’ Chubby Stick moisturizing lip colour balm, £16, (donation of £2 during October to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®), from Clinique counters at Boots and Selfridges and on www.clinique.co.uk

Page 15: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

WHEN I was approached to have a go at Bikram yoga – a form of yoga that’s practised in a room heated to 105°F with a humidity of 40% – my initial thought was one of panic.

I’ve always been a fan of yoga, having done both yoga and pilates since my teens, but the prospect of getting my “ommmm” on in a room akin to a sauna was not one which I relished.

Bikram yoga was developed by Indian yoga guru, Bikram Choudhury in the early 1970s as a variation on traditional hatha yoga. Classes are 90-minutes long and consist of a sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises.

“Bikram is originally from India and when he went to LA and started teaching yoga, he came up with the idea of doing it in a heated room, so that it would be like doing yoga in India, because of the heat and humidity,” explains Estelle Cartlidge, director and yoga teacher at Bikram Yoga Liverpool, which opened last month.

“Practising in the heat makes your body more supple and helps you to detox, as the sweating helps to flush out toxins,” adds Estelle, from Crosby.

The sequence of postures, meanwhile, has been designed to work internal organs and the cardio-vascular system, while nudging the skeletal system back into alignment, which Bikram believes, stimulates and restores health to every muscle, joint and organ of the body.

“Bikram yoga has many benefits – it works with your hormones, as many of the postures target the thyroid gland, so they’re good for people who want to lose or gain weight. While other postures work with the connection between heart and lungs, to get the heart rate in-sync with the breathing,” says Estelle, who completed an intensive training programme with the founder in LA last year, as only those who’ve received training from Bikram himself are able to teach this form of yoga.

“The training was very intensive but Bikram makes it quite fun – he’s quite a character!” reveals the 30-year-old mum-of-two.

Following ‘graduation’ Estelle, who has been a life-long yoga practitioner, spent a year teaching in

established centres in Brighton and London to hone her skills, before launching Bikram Yoga Liverpool in September.

Estelle is passionate about Bikram yoga and, when I arrived at her state-of-the-art studio on Great Crosshall Street, she said: “With both practising and teaching Bikram yoga, it can be hard sometimes, but whenever I leave a class, I leave with a ‘yoga high,’ so I’ll be interested to see if you leave with a ‘yoga high’ too.”

Yeah right, I thought. I’m something of a sceptic when it comes to anything of this nature and, as we made our way into the heated studio, I was girding my loins, ready to endure 90-minutes of hellish heat and humidity.

The class began with the first of the breathing exercises, a standing pose that gets you breathing deeply, then we made our way through the sequence of 26 poses – beginning with a half-moon pose and ending with a spine-twisting pose, before doing the final breathing exercise at the end.

Some of the poses are obviously more difficult than others, the standing poses, such as the standing bow pose, was one which I found particularly difficult. Attempting to stand on one leg and stretch my other leg upwards with one arm clasping my ankle and the other outstretched to achieve the perfect standing bow pose, was not something I excelled at. In fact, I practically fell over every time I did it, but Estelle, who is patient and personable, explained that the balance is something that will come in time.

I was not expecting the class to be a pleasurable experience and I most definitely did not think I would enjoy it. But, after doing a 90-minute class with Estelle, I must admit I was wrong about Bikram yoga.

Despite all of my misgivings about the heat and humidity, I thoroughly loved it and I left my first class feeling energised, revitalised and – the biggest surprise of all – a convert to the joys of Bikram yoga.

I’ve been back to the Great Crosshall Street studio a number of times since my initial class and am enjoying every minute of it. Yes, it can be hard and yes, you do work up something of a sweat (to put it mildly), and there have been a few occasions when I’ve had to put mind over matter, but the results are worth it.

The heat and humidity do take a little getting used to, but, as Estelle had explained, the temperature does aid flexibility and I’ve found that I can stretch into poses usually beyond the realms of my ability.

And, while I may still be trying to master the one legged balance required, I am a fan of Bikram yoga. In some classes I can fly through the postures and leave feeling amazing, others I struggle through and have occasionally felt a little sick because of the heat, but it is totally addictive.

After each class, I – the biggest sceptic of them all – do indeed leave with a ‘yoga high’ and I’m feeling more toned and energised than usual.

OCTOBER 12

15BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Katie McLoughlin has a go at the hottest fitness trend to arrive in Liverpool – Bikram yoga

WHERE IS IT:Bikram Yoga Liverpool is in the Focus Building on Great Crosshall Street, in the city centre (near the original Superlambanana).

WHEN:There are classes seven days a week at the city centre studio, with both morning and evening sessions Monday to Friday, and morning classes on weekends. See the website for a full timetable of classes.

CONTACT:Call 0151 236 1375, email [email protected], log onto www.bikramyogaliverpool.com or Tweet @bikramliverpool

Strike a pose

Estelle Cartlidge, director and yoga teacher at

Bikram Yoga Liverpool

Estelle demonstrates the ‘standing bow pose’

Page 16: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

BILL Elms is well known in the city for his role in marketing theatre and arts venues throughout the North West. His marketing and public relations company, Bill

Elms Associates, promotes live entertainment and ticketed events from The Brazilica and DaDa Festivals to St Helens Theatre Royal and the Merseyside Dance Initiative. But his latest project will see Bill put his own work in

the limelight as he publicises the premiere of the play that he is co-producing, Epstein: The Man Who Made The Beatles. The play will be staged to celebrate the opening of

the recently refurbished Epstein Theatre on Hanover Street, which has been renamed after the Liverpool man who made such a significant contribution to the music industry. Brian Epstein was the legendary manager of The

Beatles and the person responsible for their rise to mega-stardom all over the world. He also managed other popular artists such as Gerry & The Pacemakers, Billy J Kramer, The Foremost, The Dakotas and Cilla Black. Bill is co-producing the play with Jen Heyes. He

explains: “This production has been two years in the planning and it’s now time for Brian’s story to be told on stage, especially with it being the first main production at The Epstein Theatre and the 50th anniversary year of The Beatles. Epstein will be a celebration and an education of one of Liverpool’s favourite sons.” Brian’s short life was crammed with success and

controversy. The two-hander multi-media play featuring live music will tell his story and transport the audience back to the swinging 60s, a time when Liverpool was bursting with the Merseybeat. It has been an exciting challenge for Bill who has

enjoyed a long career in the theatre industry. Bill started working as an usher at the Empire at the age of 17 and worked for the theatre for 22 years. He was managing the box office at 18 and worked his way up to head of marketing before deciding to go it alone and set up his own company in 2008. “I didn’t even have a client when I handed in my

notice,” Bill admits. “But I had planned and researched the move so meticulously that it felt so right and I made the jump.

“European Capital of Culture played a massive part in my move. I think people would have laughed at me if I said I was setting up a marketing and PR company specialising in the arts in Liverpool prior to 2008. “But, in four years, my company has become one of

the region’s premiere communications companies specialising in arts and live entertainment. We have a range of wonderful clients from theatre, music, festivals, visual arts and special events.” As a natural progression, Bill started getting

involved behind the scenes co-producing a number of productions, such as Tales From Haunted Liverpool. And he has worked with local composer Neil Campbell on Frankenstein and Ghost Stories: A Night Opera which is touring around the North West in October. He also co-produced Tales From Charles Dickens and

other productions with Jen Heyes, director of Cut to the Chase Productions, whom he recently set up a company with called Bill Elms and Jen Heyes Productions. Bill reveals: “I met Jen over six years ago at a mutual friend’s wedding and we hit it off immediately,

especially with our interest in the arts and theatre. “I remember saying to her that we had a strong

connection and I knew we would become good friends and work together. It is a great working partnership with my vision for what people want and how to package something up and Jen with her artistic flair on stage.”

The talented pair came up with the idea for Epstein during a brainstorming session in January 2009. “Brian Epstein has always been somebody who has

fascinated me,” Bill divulges. “The idea played on my mind for quite a few years. Why had nobody done a play about Brian? He is such an interesting character with a huge tale to tell, he achieved so much in a short space of time. “We played with the idea for a while and then actually

put it to bed due to our working commitments. We then revisited the idea a year later when realising 2012 was

the 50th anniversary of The Beatles and that the old Neptune Theatre was to be renamed the Epstein Theatre. The idea re-ignited and we ran with it at great speed, the synergies were too strong to ignore

and we immersed ourselves in it. Something felt right.” Bill and Jen researched Brian’s life extensively and

16 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

The BIG interview

Life’s a stage

Michelle Rushton puts Bill Elms, co-producer of Epstein, in the spotlight

Andrew Lancel as Brian Epstein and Will Finlason as ‘This Boy’. Photo: Matt Ford

Bill Elms at the Epstein Theatre

Brian Epstein, legendary manager of The Beatles Photo: Paul Fender / Liverpool ECHO

Photo: Andrew Teebay

Page 17: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

17BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

The Epstein Theatre TIGER TALE

THEY say we’ve all got a book inside us and that is cer-tainly the case for Jeanette Owens who is celebrating her first novel being published!Jeanette, who originally hails from Gateacre, has pro-

duced a charming children’s book called, The Adventures of Raj The Snow Tiger. Aimed at four to seven-year-

olds, the book follows the journey of Raj, a naughty snow tiger who has been trapped in a toy by the animal god as a punishment to teach him how to behave and how his actions affect others. He can see, hear and feel

everything that happens to him, but is not able to move or make a noise until he learns how to be selfless and good and finally breaks the spell. Born in Liverpool, Jeanette moved to London and

Rutland while working in a variety of roles in industrial relations and public affairs. She recalls: “I loved stories when I was little, I read avidly

and my dad used to make up stories for me.” Jeanette had a passion for writing poetry and was

inspired to write her first children’s book by a much loved cuddly toy snow tiger that she bought from a charity shop. She explains: “I keep Raj in front of the fireplace and one day I picked him up and thought, I wonder what would happen if he was alive? “I wrote a skeleton of the story on paper, then fleshed it

out. I found a literary agent and sent it to different pub-lishers until AuthorHouse agreed to print the book.” The Adventures of Raj features beautiful illustrations

that will capture young imaginations. Jeanette reveals: “My friend was a journalist and knew a guy, Colin Wyatt, who draws illustrations for newspapers. He sent some examples of his work and we commissioned him to draw them.” Jeanette has read the book to different groups of

children who have been captivated by Raj’s story so she is confident it will do well. “It helps children understand why it’s important to be

kind and think of others while telling a very unique tale,” she says. “After reading it to children I asked them what lessons they have learned from it and they said ‘You’ve got to be good!’” In the meantime, she is now working on her second

children’s book.And her father, who still lives locally, is very proud. Jean-

ette beams: “It feels marvellous to have my first book published and my dad was thrilled to bits!”The Adventures of Raj (published by AuthorHouse, 2012, RRP £13.99) is available online at retailers in-cluding Amazon.co.uk and can be ordered from all good bookshops.

enlisted Andrew Sherlock to write the play.“Both myself and Jen have worked with Andrew

previously and we are a great team together,” explains Bill. “Andrew is a great writer. This is not a simple

biography of Epstein’s life, there is a great storyline. It is a very strong piece of work and really quite emotional; once we had this fantastic script from Andrew, everything else hung off it.” The search was on to find the finest actor to perform

the role of Brian Epstein and auditions were held for the part of ‘This Boy’ who had to be a musician to perform many of the hits from bands/artists managed by Brian. It was recently revealed that acclaimed local

actor and TV star Andrew Lancel will play Epstein. It was a huge relief for the creative team that

Andrew accepted the role as they had their heart set on the actor who recently played the high profile part of Frank Foster in ITV’s Coronation Street and has also had notable roles in ITV’s The Bill, Channel 4’s Queer as Folk and BBC1’s Cardiac Arrest. “Andrew was always on our

list of who should play Epstein,” confides Bill. “It was a huge task to find the actor to play this man. Andrew is a great actor and a wonderful guy, the audiences are in for a treat.” The second character entitled ‘This

Boy’ will be played by talented newcomer, Will Finlason. Says Bill: “We needed a young

good looking guy who was a great actor, great singer and could play the guitar. The minute I saw Will in the auditions, he struck a chord. He looks like he has stepped out of the 50s and 60s and he has a great bond with Andrew Lancel too, the pair look perfect on stage together. I couldn’t be happier about the casting on this show.

“Our amazing set designer, Amanda Stoodley, has designed a set that can quickly transport the audience through Brian’s life and numerous locations. “The ECHO are partners in the production and have

provided us with the archive from the era which is used throughout the production and all over the set.” As well as forming part of the official programme of

Liverpool’s 50th Anniversary of The Beatles, the play will be a highlight of Liverpool’s established annual Homotopia international arts festival.

It is sponsored by Gregory Abrams Davidson solicitors (Mathew Street and Penny Lane) and has

been generously supported by the main Beatles attractions in the city, such as The Cavern, The Beatles Story, Hard Days Night Hotel, Magical Mystery Tour, Fab Cabs Beatles Tours and Annexe Inc.

It is also supported by Liverpool Vision and the official charity of the production is C.A.L.M.

Rehearsals are now in full swing for Epstein and, although there has been blood, sweat and tears to get to this stage, Bill is very confident it will wow the audience and is proud to have been involved.Bill states: “In the year that the theatre

had been renamed after the man himself, it is only fitting that a production

celebrating his life should be performed there. “Brian himself was a huge fan of the

theatre, he owned a theatre in London and also went to RADA, as he wanted to be an actor. We have a responsibility to make this work and make a great production for the people of the city.

“We feel we have something very special here; something that could have legs to go a lot further and become an ambassador

for Liverpool. It is going to be a momentous occasion when the production opens.”

Epstein: The Man Who Made The Beatles runs from November 15 to December 1. For ticket information call the box office on 0844 8000 400 or visit the website www.epsteintheplay.com

Jeanette Owens sees her first book in print, The Adventures of Raj the Snow Tiger

BEST of Liverpool has two copies to give away to lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning one, please answer the following question:

WIN

What is the name of the cheeky snow tiger in Jeanette’s book?

Please send your answers on a postcard to Best of Liverpool Snow Tiger Competition, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB. Closing date for entries: Friday, October 18.

Ph

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: Matt Fo

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Page 18: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

18 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

What’s on

BY NIGHTBY DAY

Richard Lackey hand picks some of the best events that are guaranteed to spice up your October diary...

WHAT’S THE CRAIC?RAISE a pint of the black stuff as the 10th Liverpool Irish Festival takes place from October 11-21. In a decade, the festival has grown into one of the country’s top Irish festivals, featuring some of the best contemporary and traditional acts from over the water. As always music will be at the heart of this year’s festival, with the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Sefton Park Palm House and Eric’s among the many venues playing host to those Celtic sounds. Literature lovers will also be well catered for with a whole day devoted to the stories, humour and songs of James Joyce - and a lecture marking the centenary of the death of Bram Stoker, Dublin-born author of Dracula. Visit www.liverpoolirishfestival.com

LOVE THE BEATLESIT’S been a remarkable 50 years since our most famous sons released their debut single to the world, Love Me Do.

To celebrate, the Albert Dock and the award-winning Beatles Story attraction are coming together to organise a mass world record attempt on Friday, October 5 - which will be officially adjudicated on the day by Guinness

World Records. And, while details of the event are under wraps at the time of going to press, thousands of Beatles’ fans are expected to converge at the Cruise Liner Terminal at the Pier Head. The extravaganza kick-starts a whole weekend of events in honour of the Fab Four. Visit www.lovemedoweekend.com

FEEL THE VIBETHE streets of Liverpool will vibrate to the sounds of South Africa this October, as Afrovibes rolls into town. As part of the festival, between October 11

and 13, the Black-E arts centre on Great George Street will be putting on three spectacular days

of the very best of South African music, physical theatre and foodie delights. One of the highlights will be the exuberant 10-piece Sibikwa Orchestra on October 11, a lively ensemble who mix the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat with jazz. Visit www.theblack-e.co.uk

SAY ‘I DO’THE North West’s biggest vintage wedding event takes place at top Liverpool venue, Camp and Furnace, on Sunday, October 14. Held in association with leading vintage festival organisers Pillbox Vintage, the day has everything couples need for their vintage/retro inspired wedding day, with exhibitors descending on the city from across the country. The festival also boasts a superb programme of live entertainment, including DJ sessions and live music performances. Visit www.campandfurnace.com

THE TIME OF YOUR LIFETHE hit movie-turned-musical, Dirty Dancing, leaps into the Liverpool Empire between October 9-27. As part of its first ever national tour, the show has been a huge success story,

with its iconic soundtrack, including the hits Hungry Eyes and (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life, having audiences dancing in the aisles. The musical features all the adored characters and original dialogue from the iconic film with exciting extra scenes added in! And, don’t worry, those tantalising dance sequences are all there, guaranteed to transport you back to 1987, while new routines and musical numbers will endear the show to a whole new generation. Visit www.atgtickets.com/liverpool or call the Liverpool Empire box office on 0844 871 3017 for tickets.

POT LUCKSNOOKER legends, Ronnie O’Sullivan and Jimmy White, come head to head in what is truly a clash of the titans.‘The Rocket’ will face ‘The Whirlwind’ in an exciting exhibition at The Auditorium at the BT Convention Centre Liverpool on Thursday, October 25. Ronnie is the four-time and current defending World Snooker Champion, while Jimmy is undoubtedly one of snooker’s legendary characters. A fantastic evening of entertainment is promised, with fellow great, John Virgo, providing some expert analysis on the night. To book tickets visit www.echoarena.com or call the ECHO Arena box office on 0844 8000 400.

MURDER AND MYSTERYPUTTING a twist on the classic murder mystery, The Sacred Flame is a part thriller, part love story that will captivate theatre-goers when it takes up residence at the Liverpool Playhouse from October 16-20. Written by the enduringly popular playwright and novelist, W Somerset Maugham, this vivid new production centres around the suspicious death of a WW1 hero.

It’s got mystery, romance and plenty of thrills and spills to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Tickets are priced from £10-£21. Call the box office on 0151 709 4776 or visit www.everymanplayhouse.com

SPACED OUTIT’S back on home turf for Liverpool band Space. Following last year’s reunion show at the O2 Academy, the Female of the Species hitmakers are back at the venue on October 26 as part of a national tour. The platinum-selling band, one of Brit-pop’s most iconic line-ups in the mid-90s, are currently promoting their forthcoming album, Attack of the Mutant 50ft Kebab, which will be out next year.Visit www.o2academyliverpool.co.uk

MUST DO

TICKETS TO THE VOGUE BALL

IT’S time to practice your best Madonna-esque dance moves, as the popular Vogue Ball is back with a bang this month. Following the massive success of last year’s ‘Death By Glitter’ event comes 2012’s ‘The Twisted Fairytales Vogue Ball’, an evening that promises to bring a double dose of high camp and glitzy glamour to the city. Courtesy of renowned choreographer and lifelong vogue aficionado, Darren Suarez, of House of Suarez, the extravaganza will sashay into its new home at Camp and Furnace, on Saturday, October 6. The Vogue Ball is a dance event like no other - combining club culture with high art, vogue and this year’s unique theme, fairytales with a twist. Tickets for the event are available by calling the box office on 0844 8000 410, or visit the website www.ticketquarter.co.uk In the meantime, Best of Liverpool has a pair of tickets to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

What is the name of this year’s Vogue Ball?

Email your answer, along with your name and telephone number, to: [email protected]. Closing date for entries is tomorrow (Friday, October 5), so be quick! Winner must be aged 18 or over.

MUST SEE...SHAMELESS star, Tina Malone, takes to the stage in a fabulous new production of Rita, Sue and Bob Too! The romp tells the hilarious story of two working class girls who entice bumbling married father, Bob, into having a three-way affair. Also starring Mickey Finn and Nikki Sanderson, this new production combines a side-splitting script, full of classic one-liners, with an amazing cast. The play is on from October 17-28, at St Helens Theatre Royal. Call 01744 756 000 or visit www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com

MUST DO...IF your passion is photography, then there is still time to catch the Liverpool Life exhibition at the Anglican Cathedral. Running until October 28, the event

showcases the entries of the cathedral’s annual photography competition launched last May. The competition aims to inspire budding photographers who were asked to capture the city at its very best through the lens. Entry to the cathedral and the exhibition is free. It is an event not to be missed.

MUST TRY...THE English National Ballet returns to the Liverpool Empire this month with its lavish production of The Sleeping Beauty. MacMillan’s classic production combines grand sets and costumes, Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score and displays of virtuous dancing, altogether creating a dazzling showcase of classical ballet. The production is on from October

30-November 3, with tickets from £10, available from the Liverpool Empire box office or www.atgtickets.com/liverpool

MUST REMEMBER...LIVERPOOL Comedy Festival returned for its 10th year last month, and continues to provide chuckles aplenty. The festival comes to a hilarious head at The Slaughter House on Fenwick Street on October 7, when funnyman, Steve Shanyaski, will be dishing out his individual brand of witty repartee. To book your tickets call the booking

hotline on 0151 227 5946 or visit www.laughterhousecomedy.com

Photo: Mark Douet

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Page 19: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

WITH my inquisitive four-year-old son growing increasingly obsessed with modes of transport (our fireplace has been turned into a shrine of trucks, tractors, motorbikes and speedboats), my partner and I decided it would be fun to take him on the famous Mersey Ferry. His eyes lit up when we announced we would be setting sail for a River Explorer Cruise one Sunday afternoon – we packed a picnic and headed off to the Pier Head aiming to catch the 1pm ferry ‘cross the Mersey. Vessels for the River Explorer Cruise depart on the hour from the Pier Head between 10am and 6pm. Unfortunately, we arrived a little late to

catch the 1pm which was fully booked. In fact, we were informed that the ferries would be chocca all day due to an annual Hindu festival taking place on board. So we had a little mooch around the new Museum of Liverpool and enjoyed a coffee in Hamilton’s cafe before making our way to board the 2pm ferry. An amazing sight welcomed us as we queued for the Royal Iris. Hundreds of Hindus were gathered for a special festival to celebrate the birthday of Lord Ganesha, wearing colourful headbands and face paint.

There was a real carnival atmosphere as we boarded the ferry to the sound of drums and chanting.We made our way across the gangway

and found a seat inside the boat as the weather was looking a little doubtful. Daniel and his little sister Isla peered through the porthole, fascinated by the wake of the ferry and the passing ships. We waved goodbye to the Three Graces as we sailed towards Wirral. I took the children for a tour of the ferry.

They loved being on top deck where we had a great view of the Hindu ceremony taking place. People were dancing and touching statues of the elephant god before dropping it into the River Mersey, alongside petals, scarves, jewellery and pictures of the Hindu god. Lord Ganesha is believed to be the god of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune, and throwing flowers into the water is said to bring blessings to Hindus. We listened to a recorded talk on the River Mersey and its maritime past and just 30 minutes later we were pulling alongside Seacombe Terminal where we alighted and found the nearest bench where we devoured our picnic. Venturing outside, we spotted various superheroes wandering past from Batman and Spiderman to Captain America. Intrigued, we followed them into the Spaceport museum, a visitor attraction

which takes you on an inspirational journey through space, as you walk through several themed galleries. It’s a very hands-on, interactive museum where kids can press all kinds of buttons, play games and enjoy audio visual experiences learning all about space and the solar system. You can ride the supersonic space simulator, become a stargazer in the Milky Way or find out about famous astronauts. It was both educational and fun.

Our children were mesmerised by the exhibitions and the planetarium dome show. But they particularly loved the Wallace & Gromit in Space exhibition upstairs. Daniel loved drawing rockets and spaceships and making masks, while Isla enjoyed the soft play area. There was even a room where you could speak like an alien and a mini cinema showing Wallace & Gromit clips plus a selection of sets from the award-winning films and a chance to design an alien at the clay station. All the while, there were superheroes wandering around and posing for pictures with the children. They were taking part in a ‘Science of Superheroes’ workshop but we felt our kids were a

little too young to appreciate it fully. We headed back to the terminal and waited for the next ferry to take us back to Liverpool. The terminal itself is full of fun things for children from remote controlled boats and amusement rides to Play Planet, the indoor children’s play area, where kids can let off steam. Pretty soon we were boarding the Royal Iris for our return voyage. Tired and happy, Daniel and Isla sat and watched the boats go by and before long we were greeted by the familiar yet breathtaking sight of Liverpool’s world heritage waterfront. We didn’t have time to enjoy the full river cruise as the children were getting weary but you can carry on to Woodside Terminal were you can be transported back in time and board a real World War II German submarine at the U-boat Story attraction. But we can save that for another day. In the words of Wallace, we’d all enjoyed a “grand day out” and we are looking forward to our next voyage! A family ticket costs £40 for the Joint River Explorer, Spaceport and U-boat Story. For more details visit the website www.merseyferries.co.uk or call 0151 330 1000.

19BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Children OCTOBER 12

Ferry ‘cross the MerseyMichelle Rushton and her family embark on a fun river voyage

FERRY FUN FAMILY EVENTS

Cracking ideas weekend October 13 and 14ENJOY a Wallace & Gromit Moon Bug Workshop at Spaceport. Children can enter their creation in the current Cracking Ideas Competition.

Three for one October half term THIS half term Mersey Ferries is offering you and your family a great three attractions for the price of one offer with entrance to Spaceport, U-boat Story plus a Mersey Ferries’ River Explorer Cruise – all for the price of one!

Ben 10 weekend November 17 and 18BEN 10 Omniverse aliens Shocksquatch and Feedback are landing at Spaceport in November. This is a unique opportunity to meet and greet the aliens who will be making personal appearances across the weekend.Visitors will also be able to enjoy

animation workshops, drink Ben’s favourite drink, create alien masks and have their faces painted as their favourite Ben 10 alien.

Christmas grotto at Spaceport December 1, 2, 8 and 9VISIT Spaceport and meet Father Christmas with Wallace & Gromit in his grotto. All children visiting Spaceport can meet with Santa and his elves, give him their wish list and receive a free gift.Santa will be arriving by sleigh so

after you’ve visited the grotto you can meet his real live reindeer and pose for photos in his sleigh. Wallace & Gromit will be making

appearances throughout the day and there will also be Christmas craft workshops and face painting to enjoy.

0844 871 3017*

atgtickets.com/ liverpool*

*BOOKING FEES APPLY (MON - SAT, 9AM - 10PM. SUN, 10AM - 8PM)

COLEEN NOLAN LIZ MccLARNON PETE PRICE PAULINE DANIELS

STAR IN

14 DEC 2012 - 6 JAN 2013

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM £10

Cinderella_50x248mm.indd 1 28/09/2012 16:09

Page 20: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

INTERNET sensations Ilan Sheady and Sharon Davies live, breathe and sleep horror films.

Spend some time with the two work col-leagues together and it’s like being in the company of a couple of excited kids as they regale you with reasons why Hellraiser is the best scary flick ever, why a remake of the horror classic is sacrilege, and the moment they first had the bejeebers scared out of them thanks to celluloid.

In short, these guys know a lot about horror and they love to talk about it, which is prob-ably why their online videos interviewing some of the genre’s biggest icons and new talent have been such a hit, even garnering praise from the likes of movie bible, Total Film magazine.

“Some of the conversations we have about horror films are quite weird and wonder-ful, and if you are a horror fan, you get it,” says Sharon, who is a sales manager at the Liverpool ECHO when she’s not probing the titans of terror. “Horror fans love talking about horror.”

Best mates, Ilan and Sharon produce short films for horrortalk.com – Sharon presents, while Ilan, a multimedia designer, meticu-lously edits the films together. Horrortalk.com is a global website devoted to scary films, and a one-stop-shop for fans wanting to know what’s happening in the world of movie macabre.

Their reports have covered everything from the FrightFest movie convention in London to our very own Farmageddon, and they’ve interviewed some legends along the

way, including Elvira – Mistress of the Dark, and Tony Todd, aka Candyman.

“Tony was the first big interview we did,” says Sharon, with a beaming smile. “He was jet lagged, but so interesting and fun. He’s not just been in Candyman; he’s been in so many other films and has a great concept of horror.”

Born in Israel before moving and growing up in Connah’s Quay in Wales, it was Ilan who secured the gig with horrortalk.com af-ter showing a flair for writing movie reviews.

The website liked the pair’s ideas and chem-istry and their mini-film concept was born.

Tony Todd was clearly a highlight for them both, but is as close as they’ve come, so far, to interviewing the one man they would love to cosy up to more than anyone else – Candy-man writer and Liverpudlian, Clive Barker.

“It would be our dream to meet Clive,” admits Sharon, originally from Wrexham. “I have already tweeted him a couple of times saying that I will obey him forever if he watches one of our episodes.”

Clive Barker is also one reason why Ilan believes Liverpool is crying out for its own horror film convention.

He says: “Through doing this we meet so many people who all say they want a horror festival in Liverpool. Clive is one of the best horror writers ever. There really should be something like a ‘BarkerFest’.

“He’s so creative in all aspects of stuff – he’s a great painter, screenwriter and does so many things, so why not embrace a festival once a year and do something creative in the macabre?”

20 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Halloween

Master of the macabre, Ilan Sheady, and scream queen, Sharon Davies, talk to Richard Lackey about their online horror venture…

Page 21: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

21BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

Of course, the original story of Candyman was also based in Liverpool, but the city’s horror con-nections don’t end there, as Sharon explains:“There’s an awful lot going on in the North West,” she says. “Everyone thinks everything happens in London, which an awful lot does, but just think about Farmageddon, Shiverpool, and 2.8 Hours Later [zombie event] coming to Liverpool. When we first started we thought eve-rything would be in London but we are finding more and more happening here.

“There is definitely a film scene here as well. Horror film, Haters, is made by Liverpool direc-tor, Vincent Cleghorne, who is big in LA. It’s supposed to be set in France but it has all been filmed in Liverpool.”

So, what is it about horror movies that gets their blood racing?

“I think as a horror fan you are constantly trying to find that one film that really gets you scared,” explains Ilan.

“The last time I felt that was when I watched The Ring. It was freaky and it hit me on a psycho-logical level. It unnerved me.”

Unfortunately not everyone shares his senti-ment.

“The biggest victim in all this is my girlfriend because she can’t actually stand horror,” laughs Ilan. “ET freaks her out! I come home from these events and interviews and she can’t handle it. She thinks I’m an abomination for liking these things.”

To check out Ilan and Sharon’s films, visit www.horrortalk.com or follow Sharon on Twitter @ veggieshaz

FOR our photoshoot with horror fanatics Ilan and Sharon, where better location than the kingdom of terror that is Farmageddon?

The award-winning haunted at-traction in Ormskirk is full of roam-ing zombies and terrifying houses of horror and hosts an annual fright fest every October.

Farmageddon is the brainchild of Mark Edwards and Richard Cottier who were only too happy to meet us down on the farm and dress our game models in eerie costumes and apply extremely convincing horror make-up. (Read our interview with Richard on page 22)

The pictures were kindly and expertly taken by Southport snap-per, Graham Fletcher-Hill. Talented

photographer Graham specialises in fashion, weddings, portraits and family photo shoots, when he was approached to take some images of Farmageddon.

Graham recalls: “I remember visiting the place on a warm July afternoon in 2008 and wondering how this would work, as it was still under construction.

“When I went back in early Sep-tember it was an amazing place to shoot. It really pushed my technical skills to get the shots I wanted and the results went down really well with Richard and Mark Edwards, the creator and owner.

“Each year since then I have improved my technique and am now finding new opportunities within

the scare industry. “Zombies and undead don’t really

go with my Fletcherhill Photogra-phy family and baby shoots, so last year I set up Monstershots and use it to push not only my horror related imagery, but also fashion, live performance and event photog-raphy.”

You can see Graham being inter-viewed at www.horrortalk.com. For more information on Fletcherhill Photography visit fletcherhill-photography.co.uk or call 01704 778018 or for Monstershots visit www.monstershots.co.uk

*Special thanks goes to our ‘zom-bie’ George Phillips who took on various guises for our shoot – from a skeletal vicar to ghost soldier!

Page 22: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

FARMAGGEDON in West Lancashire has slowly become one of our area’s top Halloween highlights.

Year on year, the event – at Farmer Ted’s, Downholland – gets scarier and scarier, and thousands flock every October to face their darkest nightmares.

Richard Cottier is one of the men who brings the annual frightfest alive, and agreed to answer some of our questions in between scaring people half to death!

Q: When and how was Farmaggedon first conceived, where did the inspiration come from and what is your involvement in it?A: Farmaggedon was the brain child of Mark Edwards (aka Farmer Ted). After a successful children’s Halloween event, many of the parents asked for a Halloween event for them and in 2007 Farmaggedon was born.

I was involved from the start running the theatrical/event management side of the event which has grown beyond all recognition over the last few years.

Q: Can you remember the general reaction from people when you first told them the idea of bringing horror to sleepy West Lancashire?A: People didn’t really get it at first. The whole idea was very new and the like had only been seen before in the USA.

We always knew it would be great fun and just thought it would take some time to let the public know what it was all about.

Q: Are you surprised at how successful it has become, and what are the plans for the future?A: We are all really pleased with the success that Farmaggedon has had which is down to having a great team and more importantly great support from the public.

We never get complacent and have to reinvent aspects of the event each year. In fact we are already planning 2013, so watch this space.

Q: How long does it take to prepare for the next year’s event?A: We are planning the event most of the year round. It never stops. We are only open for 22 nights but we have to make sure that everything is just right.

Q: With it being horror, are there boundaries you can’t cross when it comes to developing certain ideas for the scare mazes?A: We take scaring people very seriously and what scares one person doesn’t scare another. There is also a sense of humour that goes behind everything we do and we aim to scare as many people as possible and try and offend as few as possible.

As for boundaries we rate the event as 15+ and try and draw the line at content that you would see in a 15 rated film which gives us a lot of scope.

Q: Where does the cast come from and how much training do they receive?A: The cast come from all walks of life – professional actors, dancers, paramedics, solicitors, police, teachers and students – the list is endless. We have over 150 on the books and we train them up to become the living dead from June.

Q: Finally, why should people come to Farmaggedon this year?A: This year’s event is bigger and better and we hope that we have put together a great show.

If you want something spooky then Farmaggedon is not for you, but if it’s sleepless nights and the sound of manic clowns or chainsaws echoing through your ears, then Farmaggedon is the event for you.

We want to give you nightmares...

22 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Halloween

Richard Lackey is brave enough to catch up with Richard Cottier, one of the manic masterminds behind the popular Farmaggedon haunted attraction... P

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Page 23: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

23BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

FOODIE FRIGHTSPort Sunlight

START your Halloween celebrations with a full stomach at the historical Port Sunlight Village.

The popular museum will open up its creaking doors on October 27, offering guests a scrumptious three course autumn feast.

The hearty fayre will feature seasonal, local ingredients, and guests can pick from a selection of heart-warming dishes, such as venison sausage casserole with herby mashed potato and autumn squash, vegetable and bean stew.

Then, following the banquet, guests will be expected to have their wits about them as they are treated to some spine-chilling ghost stories guaranteed to give them the shivers.

And beware of some unexpected visitors lurking in the shadows!For more information and to book tickets, call 0151 644 6466 or email [email protected]

IS THERE ANYBODY THERE?Night Vision Investigations

LIVERPOOL’S very own ghostbusters, Night Vision Investigations, are to host six knee-trembling Halloween events in some of the city’s alleged haunted locations this year.

Taking place on October 26, 27 and Halloween itself, those not afraid of the dark are invited to join the paranormal investigators in their quest to uncover some of the city’s real spooks.

Venues this year include The Florence Institute, Lark Lane Police Station and beneath Lime Street Station.

Armed with the latest scientific equipment and steady nerves, Night Vision Investigations are known for their ‘Most Haunted’ style events, and claim to have already gathered creepy evidence to prove there is life on the other side.Visit www.nightvisioninvestigations.co.uk for details.

TREATS NO TRICKSCroxteth Hall

FOR the younger ones, Croxteth Hall is embracing the lighter side of the holiday with a series of events to delight little pumpkins.

This year’s activities include the ever-popular children’s ghost hunts inside the famous hall and pumpkin trails on the farm.

There’s also mask making and pumpkin carving workshops to keep the youngsters amused, and for older children, there are a series of spooky and historical evening events planned.For further details and prices, check www.croxteth.co.uk or call 0151 233 6932.

Richard Lackey rounds up some of the best events that will scare you senseless during the spooky season...

TREES OF TERRORScarewood Forest

FORMBY’S famous pinewoods will be transformed into the terrifying Scarewood Forest from October 26-31, and only the bravest of souls should dare to enter.

Taking its inspiration from dark fairytales, when darkness falls the forest will come alive with dangerous ghouls and grisly ghosts, giving guests a unique, fun and positively frightening experience they will never forget.

There will also be a delicious market place with hot and cold food provided by Liverpool’s hottest new venue, Camp and Furnace, who are creating a woodland inspired menu.

Scarewood Forest comes courtesy of Shiverpool, one of the UK’s most popular ghost and history tour operators, who are renowned for taking guests on unforgettable journeys of terror.For details visit the website www.scarewood.com or call 0151 709 2030 for more information

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WIN The Woman in BlackONE way to get into the Halloween spirit is by locking your doors and windows, making a hot brew, snuggling on the couch and watching a horror film.

Whether you love your suspenseful classics, or you’re a bit of a gore-fiend, there are fright flicks to suit everyone’s tastes from the likes of The Exorcist, Halloween and The Shining, to today’s psycho-terror movies such as Paranormal Activity and Saw.

The Woman in Black, starring Daniel Radcliffe, is the latest nightmare movie causing screams up and down the country, and Best of Liverpool has teamed up with HMV to offer five readers a copy on DVD.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

Daniel Radcliffe is best known for portraying which famous wizard?

Answers on a postcard to Horror Comp, Best of Liverpool, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB (including your name and telephone number). Closing date: Friday, October 12. Entrants must be aged 18 and over.

Page 24: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

24 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Food & drink

The spice is right

With National Curry Week approaching fast, Paul Baker seeks out delicious recipes from two of the top Asian chefs in the city so we can cook real Indian cuisine at home

MAYUR on Duke Street in the city centre, specialises in fine Indian dining. Arif Mash of Mayur explains: “Our

dishes originate from all over India. For example, the elaichi bhuna lamb or the dum cooked lamb biryani are from North India. “The patrani seabass, machali neelgiri (a monkfish curry) and the chicken biryani from Hyderabad are all from South India. “All our seafood dishes are from the

Southern region of India.” Arif kindly furnished us with the recipe for one of the restaurant’s award winning starters, Methi Macchi Tikka – chunks of salmon with fenugreek leaves, yoghurt and spices grilled in the clay oven. Find out more at www.mayurrestaurant.co.uk

METHI MACCHI TIKKA (From Partap Singh, Mayur, Duke Street, Liverpool)

Holdi – more than just a curry house. Top left, the delicious Chana Paradesh

CHANA PARADESH (From Rukon Kamaly, Holdi, Woolton Street, Woolton Village)

Ingredients:l 3 tbsp sunflower oill 2 tsp brown sugarl 4 cloves of crushed garlicl An inch of chopped gingerl 1 and a half onionsl 1 cup of waterl Tomato puréel 2 tsp turmericl 1 tsp corianderl 1 tsp cuminl 1 tsp paprikal 1 tsp garam masalal 3 green chilliesl 2 or 3 chicken breast fillets, slicedl Half tin chickpeasl 1 chopped tomatol Fresh corianderl Baby spinach leaves l Fenugreek leaves (methi leaves)

Method:l Heat the sunflower oil, crushed garlic and finely chopped ginger in your frying pan until brown.l Then add the onions and a pinch of salt. Fry until onions turn brown.l Add a cup of water and tomato purée along with all your spices – the turmeric, coriander, cumin, paprika and garam masala.l Add your sliced chicken breast fillets, your green chillies and brown sugar. Slow cook this for 10 to 15 minutes.l Then add the chickpeas and leave to cook for another five mins.l Serve and garnish with a couple of hand-fuls of baby spinach leaves, a chopped to-mato, fresh coriander and some fenugreek (methi) leaves. l Add yoghurt if the dish is too spicy!

IT’S fair to say that Asian cuisine has taken Britain by storm. It might have been strange to

imagine 30 years ago, that our preference for the bland and the safe in food, would be replaced with a fondness for spice and seeking out new flavours.

In 1998 the country enjoyed its first National Curry Week and it’s been helping heat up the nation’s palate ever since. Things went so far that our favourite dish apparently became chicken tikka masala but, unfortunately, that’s not really an

authentic Indian dish. So, in order to truly celebrate National Curry Week (October 8-14), Best of Liverpool asked two top Asian chefs to delight the Scouse tastebuds with some genuine Indian food that we could cook up ourselves...

RUKON hails from Bangladesh but his restaurant, Holdi, is more than just a curry house, featuring an authentic Indian cuisine which aims to be as diverse as the country’s culture, language, region and climate. Rukon explains that, since opening, so many people have said it is like no food they’ve

ever tasted before. And that’s because they haven’t – his menu features his own creations which you won’t taste anywhere else. Best of Liverpool twisted his arm until he revealed the secrets to one of his dishes, Chana Paradesh.

Ingredients:l 500g of salmon chunks (or fish of your choice), washed and driedl Vegetable oill Half tsp fenugreek seedsl 2 tsp coriander powderl Half tsp turmeric powderl 1 tsp of red chilli powderl 200ml of natural yoghurtl 1 medium sized onion, ground to a paste or finely choppedl 1 piece of ginger, groundl 1 small bunch of dry fenugreek leaves (methi leaves)

Method:l Heat the oil in a non-stick pan, and add the fenugreek seeds.l When the seeds turn black remove them from the oil and discard.l Add the remaining ingredients and sauté until the oil separates.l Add the washed fish gently, mix gently and cook in the pan, covered with a lid, for about 10-15 minutes (cooking times vary if you use different fish).l Serve with hot steamed rice.

Entertainment at Mayur

Methi Macchi Tikka

Page 25: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

25BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

BIKINI MARTINI

JAMES BOND is known for his eye for the ladies and The Bikini Martini (pictured left) toasts Ursula Andress – the quintessential Bond girl. Andress became a household name thanks to that

bikini scene in her role as Honey Ryder in Dr No She epitomises what a Bond girl, and drink, should be like, and her cocktail is a sumptuous mix of Abelha Cachaça and La Gina limoncello with lemon juice and fresh passionfruit to evoke the spirit and taste of Jamaica.

Ingredients:l 28.4ml Abelha Cachacal 14.2ml La Gina Limoncellol 14.2ml gomme (sugar syrup)l Half a fresh passion fruitl 25ml passion fruit pureel 14.2ml lemon juice Method:l Shake together and double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.

The Bikini Martini cocktail from The Living Room

ESPRESSO MARTINI

MADE with Russian vodka, this drink will fling you right into From Russia With Love with a daring and awakening combination of espresso and sugar.

Ingredients:l 42.6ml Russian Standard Vodkal 14.2ml Kahlual Single shot of espressol 14.2ml gomme syrup Method:l Shake really hard to get a good cream and double strain and decorate with three coffee beans.

SHAKEN, NOT STIRREDThe Living Room reinvents 007’s favourite tipple

THE new bond film Skyfall hits the big screens this autumn and in anticipation, The Living Room is hot off the mark mixing up some of 007’s favourite drinks.

Daniel Craig returns for his third appearance as the MI6 spy and the bar and restaurant is taking its cue from that infamous line “shaken, not stirred” with a range of Martinis sure to soothe the aches and pains of a tough day saving the world and guaranteed to woo any potential Bond girl. So, just as Bond reinvents himself, The Living Room has been reinventing the classic Martini to

give everyone, spy, Bond girl, villain or otherwise, the chance to taste the high life.

“Bond is the ultimate cocktail drinker and he obviously knows a good combination when he tastes one,” says The Living Room’s general manager, Jamie McDiarmid.

“The launch of the 23rd Bond film is the perfect opportunity for our expert mixologists to experiment with his classic tipple and shake things up a bit. Sitting down for a perfectly-made cocktail is a favourite way for Bond to relax after a hard day’s work catching the bad guys,

and it’s also ideal after a long day in the office.”

The Living Room’s mixologists have kindly shared their 007-themed Martini recipes with Best of Liverpool so you can recreate them at home. Remember the golden rule - shaken, not stirred...!

The Living Room is at 15 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QS. www.thelivingroom.co.uk or follow it on Twitter @thelivingroom_ or search for ‘The Living Room Restaurant and Bar’ on Facebook.

GRAPEFRUIT AND APRICOT MARTINIFOR something a bit different, this one gives a citrus kick to keep the juices flowing long into the night.

Ingredients:l 35.5 ml Bloom ginl 14.2ml Briotte Apricot liqueurl 14.2ml gomme (sugar syrup)l 3 wedges of grapefruit Method:l Crush the fruit and gomme syrup first, then add the other ingredients. l Garnish with grapefruit zest.

MOJITO MARTINI

IF Pierce Brosnan in Die Another Day is your ultimate Bond, why not combine two classic drinks with the Mojito Martini – rum, lime, sugar and mint?

Ingredients:l 42.6ml Diplomatico Anejol 14.2ml gomme (sugar syrup)l Juice of a whole lime Method:l Shake and double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. l Top with a sprig of mint.

Ground Floor, Cotton House, Old Hall Street, Liverpool L3 9LQTel: 0151 280 5584

We specialise inSame Day•Wedding DressDry CleaningVintage and•DesignerDressesAlterations•Repairs•Spot Cleaning•Curtains•Bedding•

all in house.We are insuredfor items worthover £300

Page 26: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

FINE dining and casinos are not two things that I’d normally put together. In fact, on the two occasions that I’ve previously visited a casino, the only food I’ve seen served are platefuls of slightly plasticy-looking cheese toasties. So, as I made my way to dinner at Fahrenheit Bar & Grill, at the Genting Club in Queens Square, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. The restaurant, located on the ground floor of the casino, is a new addition to the plush venue, which recently underwent a luxurious multi-million pound refurbishment. On arrival, my husband and I were instantly impressed with the stylish décor and swanky glass-fronted kitchen. I must admit, we were a little concerned

to find that the restaurant was located quite close to the main gaming area.

I’d somehow imagined it might be in a separate room, and was worried it might be a tad noisy for a couple looking for a relaxing Friday evening. As soon as we were seated, however, our reservations slipped away. The chic restaurant was furnished with dark wooden tables, cream armchairs, and contemporary lighting which created an intimate atmosphere. A row of sleek, black leather booths to the right-hand side of the restaurant also acted as a clever partition to the lively casino and

ensured the restaurant maintained its own privacy. Within a few minutes an attentive waiter took our drinks order, and as we looked at the a la carte menu we were suitably wowed. A fusion of contemporary grill, fish and seasonal dishes – as well as daily specials – there was a good, but not overwhelming, selection and it certainly made our stomachs rumble in anticipation. To start, I opted for toasted ciabatta with goats’ cheese from the specials’ menu, and my other half plumped for oven baked camembert. Indulgently soft and creamy, my generous portion of goats’ cheese came with warm, toasted ciabatta, sweet beef tomato and peppery rocket and was a real treat for a cheese-lover like myself. My husband was equally delighted with his dish – a whole melted camembert – served alongside fresh slices of crusty baguette (prime for dipping), and both were polished off in record time. For our mains, my husband and I were tempted by the succulent-sounding steak burger in a sour dough bun with skinny fries. But, in the end I selected the lamb rump served with sauteed potatoes, green beans, pesto and red wine jus which was also on the specials’ board,

26 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Food & drink

Sarah Hooley discovers a sure bet when it comes to fine dining....

and my husband chose the British 7oz fillet steak after he spied one whisking its way to a neighbouring table. Our waiter explained that the steaks are something of a speciality in the restaurant, and as well as being traditionally matured for a minimum of 28 days, are all sourced from British Red Tractor Assured Farms. Diners can choose from a selection of cuts and sauces, and my other half’s eyes lit up as his plate was brought to the table. The juicy fillet steak, sat in the centre of the dish, was served with mushrooms, tomatoes, a small jug of bernaise sauce and a stack of thick cut, home-cooked chips (white and fluffy on the inside) which were genuinely among the best we’ve tasted in years. My main was equally impressive. The lamb, fanned out on a bed of green beans and crispy sauteed potatoes was drizzled in a deliciously rich red wine and pesto jus and literally melted in my mouth. Needless to say there wasn’t a morsel left on our plates by the time we were finished, but despite being suitably satiated we couldn’t resist the lure of our sweet-tooths after we glanced at the dessert menu.

A true chocoholic, I opted for the classic

hot chocolate fondant, while my husband chose a banoffee sundae meringue. Our waiter checked that we were okay to wait the 10 minutes it took to freshly bake the hot chocolate fondant, and when the puddings arrived it’s fair to say that we would have happily waited double that. My husband’s banoffee sundae, served in a tall Martini glass, consisted of three huge scoops of ice-cream, sticky toffee sauce, crushed meringue and sliced banana which prompted much ‘oohing’ and ‘ahhing’. But it was my hot chocolate fondant that stole the show. Gooey, soft and oozing with melted chocolate, the pudding was served with Cornish ice-cream and topped with a fresh strawberry for good measure. After such a good night we were reluctant to let the evening end, so we headed up to the casino’s trendy bar on the first floor and spent the rest of the night sampling the delicious, freshly made cocktails before finally heading home. Fahrenheit Bar & Grill is open to non-members and members of the casino, and thanks to its exemplary service and excellent food, boasts all the ingredients for a great night out.

To reserve a table at Fahrenheit Bar & Grill, at the Genting Club in Queens Square, call 0151 702 7610.

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Page 27: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

THINK of the Italian Lakes and chances are you’re probably conjuring up romantic images of Lake Como, George Clooney in his Lake Maggiore villa and indulgent Italian cuisine. There’s something about the prospect

of eating freshly made pizza and pasta while sipping a beautiful wine with a view of a lake that is quintessentially romantic. So, when a new Italian restaurant opened by one of Liverpool’s most picturesque lakes, I envisioned a blissfully intimate setting. And I wasn’t wrong. Arriving at Michelangelo’s, which

opened in the Blenheim Lakeside Hotel in July, we took our seats at perhaps the best table in the south Liverpool eatery – right by the bay window. With a view of Sefton Park’s boating

lake from our table, the setting was, as hoped, romantic. And, with just 30 covers, Michelangelo’s has an intimate ambience which lends itself well to a cosy “cena per due”. The restaurant is the brainchild of

Conor O’Donovan, who took over the Blenheim in 2011 and has been busy restoring the Victorian villa ever since. With a background in the hotel and

restaurant trade, Conor worked for a major hotel reservations firm for many years and launched a successful Italian restaurant in Dublin before coming to Liverpool in 2007 with the dream of running his own hotels. He launched Roscoe House, a four star hotel on Rodney Street, and last year he took over the Blenheim Lakeside Hotel. Since he took over the Victorian villa,

which was once the home of ‘fifth Beatle’ and artist Stuart Sutcliffe he has been busy putting his own stamp onto the historic venue. Michelangelo’s is the latest part of the

hotel to be transformed and Conor has further renovation plans. Decorated in a contemporary style,

the restaurant, which is at the front of the hotel overlooking the boating lake, serves regional dishes from central and southern Italy. Inspired by 28-year-old Conor’s travels

throughout Italy, the menu features nearly a dozen tempting antipasti options, such as Parma ham and buffalo mozzarella (£8.75) and bruschetta pomodoro (£3.95); salads, a varied selection of pizzas and calzones, classic Italian dishes like lasagne al forno (£9.45) and tagliatelle carbonara (£7.95); as well as more unusual pasta options like vodka penne (£11.45), with penne served in a creamy tomato and vodka sauce accompanied by prawns, garden peas, chilli and fresh parsley. Our eyes hungrily scanned the menu

and, with appetites growing large, we decided to order a selection of starters to share. The service was fast and friendly and, after a few minutes of sipping a crisp but fruity Sauvignon Blanc, our sizeable starter arrived. We began with freshly baked dough

sticks (£2.95), spiedinidi gamberi (£7.95) and arancini (£3.95). Made with home-made pizza dough,

the three dough sticks were still warm from the oven and tasted beautiful when slathered with lashings of

the accompanying garlic aioli. The spiedinidi gamberi, meanwhile, featured king prawns on crustada bread with a white wine, chilli and garlic sauce. Prettily presented, the prawns were succulent and the sauce tasty, but the dish could have benefited from the addition of more sauce, as we both found the bread a tad dry. Our third and final starter (yes, we

really are that greedy) was our wild card choice. Neither my boyfriend or I have ever had arancini before, but, having spied this Sicilian dish on the menu, we were both intrigued. A dish of fried risotto balls stuffed

with tomatoes, peas and mozzarella, the arancini was well cooked, but the gloopy consistency, owing to the risotto and cheese, was, while perfectly cooked, not to our tastes. We did, however, love the tomato, chilli

and basil sauce that came with the dish, and found ourselves mopping up the tangy, spicy sauce with the remains of our dough sticks. Thankfully, sensing that our

gargantuan order of three starters had not just whetted our appetite but sated it, our waitress gave us a welcome breather between courses. We sat back, drank in the view of the

lake and leisurely quaffed another glass or two of vino, before our main arrived. And what a main it was. On Conor’s recommendation, we had both gone for Michelangelo’s signature dish – filetto di pietra lavica (£19.95), with a side order of pomodoro e pesto di pane (£4.95). Made from the same home-made dough

as the dough sticks, the pomodoro e pesto di pane was delectable. A twist on garlic bread, the thin, traditional pizza base was slathered in tangy tomato sauce and generously drizzled with fresh, home-made basil pesto. The filetto di pietra lavica brought a

bit of theatre to our dining experience as the prime, 8oz fillet steak is served on a sizzling hot lava stone so that you can cook it to your own liking at the table. Beautifully tender, the steak was

delicious and, thanks to our expert cooking (modest aren’t we?) it was succulent, juicy and melted in the mouth. We both enjoyed the novelty of cooking

the steak on the hot lava stone. It also came with a smorgasbord of

accompaniments, including caramelised red onions, cherry tomatoes, French fries and a choice of sauce (we both went for garlic butter – because what’s the point of counting calories after a meal of such ample proportions?!) Admittedly, French fries aren’t a

traditional Italian accompaniment and, given the quality of the steak, they were perhaps a superfluous addition to an otherwise fine dish. Fit to burst, we eschewed dessert in

favour of a nightcap with friends on Lark Lane. Michelangelo’s is a credit to Conor, and I’m keen to see how he puts his stamp onto the rest of the Blenheim.

Michelangelo’s is in the Blenheim Lakeside Hotel, 37 Aigburth Drive, Sefton Park, Liverpool, L17 4JE. Call 0151 727 7380 or log on to the website www.italianrestaurantliverpool.com

27BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

Katie McLoughlin drinks in the view at Michelangelo’s, near Sefton Park

AN ITALIAN RENAISSANCE

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Page 28: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

TAKE inspiration from the Far East with this season’s Oriental theme, showcasing ornate Chinese embroidery, Eastern spiritualism and modern Japanese simplicity.

Use clean lines and natural textures to turn your home into a tranquil sanctuary. Monotone greys and blues help to create a calming effect with splashes of colour and patterns coming from clashing scatter cushions, throws and fabrics.

28 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Homes

Sue Kelbrick goes globetrotting to track down some international influences for this autumn’s home design trends

Delphine fabrics, from £22.50, from Harlequin at Leekes.co.uk

Praying Buddha, £32, from Puji.com

Lanterns wallpaper, £15 a roll, from Next

Purple bird cushion, £25, from Debenhams

Chinoise wall art, £70 for set of two, from Next

Bowl gold finish, £5, from Matalan

Blossom in mercury vase, £30, from Next

Made to measure magenta curtains with sheer cotton voile blind, price on application, from Moghulinteriors.com

Orchid chest, £399, from Next

Fairwind hand-painted bird bowls, £28, from fairwindonline.com

GO EAST

Page 29: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

29BEST OF LIVERPOOL

OCTOBER 12

Candle holder, £15, from Matalan

French fancyFROM the rustic

charms of Provencale-style furniture and kitchenware, to the glamour and decadence of art deco interiors

and accessories, if it’s French then it’s ‘tres chic’ for

this season...

Rococo d’Or bed, £829, from newtonsfurniture.co.uk

Boutique Provencale blackboard, £35.95, from boutiqueprovencale.co.uk

Le Table de Rouen, £495, from The French Bedroom Company

Stoneware jug, £30, from berryred.co.uk

Cheese platter, £39.95, from richardbramble.co.uk

Sweetpea and Willow Nordic grey Lady Estelle cabinet, £875, from sweetpeaandwillow.com

Lucille chair, £450, chairs wallpaper, (per roll) £15, French script boxes (set of three), £14, and herringbone throw, £25, from Next

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Page 30: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

APPROACHING the Oaks Hotel up its long and winding driveway, I immediately felt like I was attending an evening soiree with Colonel Mustard, Professor Plum et al. The building is huge, stately and

imposing, and the darkness of night and half-crescent moon above only adds to the eerie atmosphere. Enter into its huge reception area and

those same tingling feelings persist. The interiors are elegantly antique, with dark wood panelling and high ceilings. There’s a grand sweeping staircase at the centre and an impressive 25ft high stained glass window towering above. Even the creak of the floorboards adds to the oldy-worldy vibe of the place, as we navigate the maze of corridors to find our room. The hotel could not be more fitting,

because this is after all, witch country. Less than an hour away up the

motorway from Liverpool, Pendle is literally on our doorstep. However, when you arrive you know instantly that you are in a place like no other.

I visit Pendle almost every October because, during this time of year, the area takes on a life of its own. The leaves on the trees have changed to their burnt orange hues, the autumnal chill swirls around Pendle Hill like a magical mist and in the lead up to Halloween, it seems apt to go in search of the infamous Pendle witches. You do get a strange and almost

unearthly feeling when you visit this area, sandwiched between the Pennines and the Forest of Bowland. That may be because the ghosts of those aforementioned witches still roam the rural lanes – if you believe in all that stuff – or it just might be because there are images of witches everywhere – on the front of houses and sides of buses, you name it – and its dark history is well documented. For those who don’t know, the story of

the Pendle witches dates back to the 17th century, when 12 folk were accused of using witchcraft to murder 10 people. Most of the dozen were sent to trial,

found guilty and hanged. It’s been 400 years since all that happened, but the witch trials still define Pendle to this day. A great place to start exploring the area

is Pendle Heritage Centre in the village of Barrowford. Located within a stunning Grade II

Listed farm, the centre provides leaflets and paraphernalia on the many walks up Pendle Hill and those linked to the witch trial locations. Pendle Art Gallery and Craft Shop is perfect for those looking for a souvenir, while a small museum brings stories of the local history to life. A tearoom and shop selling locally-

produced preserves and treats will also satisfy those with a weakness for tasty delicacies.

From here, I recommend you head up to Newchurch-in-Pendle, a tiny village perched on top of a steep incline, and I mean steep! (A word of warning, if you drive an old banger you may want to consider going by foot). Newchurch is home to the amazing

Witches Galore shop, a place which I have to visit whenever I come to the area. Selling everything from witch mobiles to Halloween costumes, Witches Galore is the one-stop shop for anything to do with horrid hags. Across the road and you will find the

peaceful St Mary’s Church. A stroll around the graveyard is always a must as it is here that you will find the infamous ‘Nutter Grave’.

Here lie the bodies of members of the Nutter family, relations to one of the accused witches, Alice Nutter. If you’re feeling hungry then one of my

regular haunts is the homely Pendle Inn in Barley, literally minutes away from Newchurch. This pub is a real delight, and a drink in front of its roaring log fire is as magical as it gets in the land of spells and potions. A traditional and cosy boozer, it also

serves up some delicious grub, including pies and roasts, which is always welcome after you’ve been trekking around the surrounding countryside all day. Back at the Oaks and in the light of

day the hotel looks nowhere near as forboding as it does in the shadow of night. For a comfortable stay in a hotel full of history and character you can’t go wrong. And while its communal areas hark back to another time, the bedrooms themselves are modern and stylish. Breakfast is also more than worthy of a return visit. With Halloween fast approaching, get

out your broomstick and make a flying trip up to Pendle. It’s magic.

The Oaks Hotel is located on Colne Road, in Reedley, and is minutes away from Pendle’s witch hotspots. For reservations call 01282 41 41 41, visit www.lavenderhotels.co.uk/oaks or email: [email protected]

OCTOBER 12

BEST OF LIVERPOOL30

TravelP

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tos: R

ichard

Lacke

y

Witch countryRichard Lackey goes hunting for the infamous Pendle witches…

The Oaks’ Hotel reception

St Mary’s Church, Newchurch

The Oaks’ Hotel, Reedley, is in the heart of ‘witch country’

Page 31: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

BEST OF LIVERPOOL 31

Page 32: Best of Liverpool Magazine - October 2012

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