A council magazine for the residents of , , , , Whiston and surrounding areas

Issue 8 Winter 2006

Knowsleywww.knowsley.gov.uk NEWS

in this issue CRACKING CRIME FOUR-PAGE SPECIAL STUB OUT COOK SMOKING SAFE THIS CHRISTMAS 12 TIPS FROM OUR EXPERT

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH WILLY RUSSELL where there’s a Will there’s a play

A DREAM JOB WITH JADE welcome has again recognised that the council in the knowledge that our parks delivers fi rst-class services and is run and open spaces, library services in an open and accountable way. and leisure centres have all Knowsley was one of only seven retained national awards for authorities in the country to be top quality provision. awarded top marks for its services And people who use our benefi ts to children and young people. service can be sure of a fast and It highlights our continued effi cient service after it achieved improvement in educational ‘excellent’ status. Hello and welcome to the winter attainment at both Key Stage 2 and This all demonstrates the hard work issue of Knowsley News. Key Stage 4 and also our road safety and dedication of Knowsley Council May I fi rst of all wish you and education programmes, which have and its partners to provide real your family a Merry Christmas signifi cantly reduced accidents. benefi ts to you and your community. and a Happy New Year – all the best! Knowsley is also leading the way But as ever we won’t be resting on I’d like to assure you Knowsley by increasing investment in primary our laurels and will continue to strive Council staff will be working hard schools meals. We are the only to make Knowsley an even better to make sure essential services authority on to make a place to live, work and visit. run smoothly throughout the commitment to give all our 58 primary Once again, enjoy yourself over festive period. schools their own kitchens and cooks. the festive period! In this issue you can fi nd information The borough was also recognised about bin and recycling collections over this year as the top business enterprise Christmas and New Year. area in the North West, underlining Looking back on 2006, it is has been our commitment to providing jobs and a really good year. skills training for local people. Cllr Ron Round The Government Audit Commission You can also enjoy leisure activities Leader of Knowsley Council contents One great magazine, four great sections what’s hot 4in focus lifestyle the guide

3-8 All the latest 10 A partnership 20 Work, rest news from for parents and plays around Knowsley 12 Full of 21 A dream job enterprise with Jade 22 Breaking the crime addiction 24 Ask the special expert pages 15-18 25 Sport 28 What’s on listings 31 Shelf life

Knowsley News is produced by Knowsley Council four times a year and distributed to all households in the borough. The next edition will be published in March. If you have any comments or feedback – or would like to write a letter for publication – please contact the editor, Gareth Roberts, at:

EE1078110781 KKnowsleynowsley vv2.indd2.indd 2 11/12/06/12/06 22:58:21:58:21 ppmm All the latest what’s hot news How James Bond-style methods are catching criminals, why Knowsley is hot at beating the cold, and where a walking bus scheme has become a school favourite. FFundingunding boostboost forfor primaryprimary schoolsschools GREENGATES primary in Knowsley is to benefi t from a multimillion-pound new school building thanks to funding announced by the DfES. By GEMMA MELLING

The Halewood school get an idea of how all – created last year after primary schools may the mergers of New look in the future. Hutte and Roseheath Cllr Ron Round, schools – is one of Leader of Knowsley a handful to receive Council, said: “This funding as part of the latest funding, which Government’s pilot will enable a rebuild of Pathfi nder scheme. Greengates school in The money - £6.5m Halewood, is great news – will be used to create for Knowsley and is key a primary school fi t to our plan to create for the future, offering learning environments not only state of the art fi t for the future for all design and technology, our schoolchildren. but also serving as “Having already a hub for the local been chosen as one of community. Headteacher, Anne Johnson with pupils Jacklyn the fi rst authorities to Knowsley is the only Mousley, Amy Halliday, Dean Owens and Tony See rebuild all its secondary authority in Merseyside from New Hutte and Roseheath. schools as part of the to have been chosen Building Schools for the to receive this funding, Future programme, we which is part of a It comes after money was Together with the Greengates are delighted that we £150m nationwide investment also secured to create new scheme, these three building are going to be able to enjoy a unveiled by Schools Minister primary schools in Northwood, projects will help Knowsley similar transformation in some Jim Knight. Kirkby, and in North Huyton. Council and the Government to of our primaries.”

www.knowsley.gov.uk 3 what’s hot

Cash rewards for environmental projects YOU CAN EMAIL THE hunt is on for the best community groups in Knowsley. YOUR STORIES, Groups who are helping to improve their local LETTERS AND environment can enter the 2007 Community Environmental Challenge, with a top prize of £1,000 COMMENTS TO and runner-up prizes of £500 and £300. THE EDITOR: Previous winners included projects on recycling knowsleynews@ and energy conservation, litter and graffi ti control knowsley.gov.uk and support for community environmental days. For further information, or to apply, contact Tom Eccles on 443 2419.

Pat Holden: Live and let dye an excellent teacher A JAMES Bond-style crime-fi ghting technique is helping police in Knowsley to catch burglars.

Smart Water is a permanent non- them undeniably to the scene of a toxic liquid, which is invisible to the crime. naked eye but glows when exposed Knowsley’s custody suite has to ultraviolet light. been installed with ultraviolet lighting Property can be marked with the to link offenders to crime scenes. water and every batch has a unique Councillor Jackie Harris, cabinet code that is stored on a national member for Community Safety database, so stolen items can be and Social Inclusion said: “The quickly returned. introduction of Smart Water The Knowsley Partnership has technology throughout Knowsley is teamed up with the makers of Smart a positive and proactive response to Water in a bid to encourage home targeting criminals operating across and business owners to mark their the borough. property and catch out thieves. “Smart Water will hopefully Every school in Knowsley has become a deterrent to thieves as the already been protected with a device substance stays on clothing and skin which when triggered sprays the for months. Our message is clear – offender with Smart Water linking if they steal, they will be marked.”

Criminals are caught red Pat’s the way to do it handed with Smart Water A KNOWSLEY teacher has been named top of the class for her unique lessons. Pat Holden was named an ‘Excellent Teacher’ (ET) by a new Government scheme. She was one of just 20 teachers in and Wales to receive the honour and the fi rst in Merseyside. Pat said: “The Excellent Teacher scheme is the perfect way to develop my career. I was inspired to apply as I believe in helping teachers to develop themselves and support each other.” Pat has been teaching English, Maths and Science for over 33 years to children from nursery age to year six at Prescot Primary School. She also teaches French and is a champion of ICT, using Apple Mac technology to improve computer skills. “I genuinely feel I could not have achieved the status without the support of the head teacher, Cath Carson, and all of the staff at the school. The children love the idea that an ET has landed in their classroom!”

4 www.knowsley.gov.uk what’s hot

Budding fundraisers CHILDREN at a Knowsley junior school showed they had pots of care to spare by taking part in a blooming great fundraiser for a cancer charity. Youngsters at St Margaret Mary’s RC in Pilch Lane, Huyton got their hands dirty planting daffodils for Marie Curie Cancer Care’s Pots of Care Campaign. The fl owers will blossom in spring, in time for the launch of the charity’s national Great Daffodil Appeal which helps fund nursing for cancer patients and care and support for their families.

Hot deals to save Britain’s best neighbour GRAN Lily Muscat from Fincham Square, Huyton, energy and cash has been crowned Britain’s Best Neighbour by the National Housing Federation, which represents KNOWSLEY residents can slash their heating bills by up to £200 a housing associations across the UK. year by taking advantage of the council’s Heatstreets grant scheme. Lily, 60, has lived in the area for 33 years. Despite ill health, Lily continues to lead the Fincham Square More than 7,000 homes in Knowsley Merseyside Energy Effi ciency Advice Residents’ Committee and has inspired friends and have had loft and cavity wall insulation Centre (MEEAC) on 0800 512 012. They neighbours to make huge changes to the area. fi tted in the last three years. This has will arrange for a free surveyor visit. She has organised tidy up days, fundraising for day helped the borough become the most Residents over 60 or those on trips and even arranged for a paving company to energy effi cient in the country. benefi ts should be able to get this sponsor the football kit for a local children’s side. Typically such work costs £99 for a work done without charge. She said: “I was shocked to win the award. None of cavity wall insulation and £75 to £125 If you have any queries call the what we have achieved would have been possible for loft insulation. council’s Energy Conservation Team without the determination of the residents and the To register an interest phone the on 443 2216. support of KHT and other agencies. “Bringing people together has made a real difference to the area and helped to make it somewhere we are Energy saving tips proud to live.” Chief Executive of Knowsley Housing Trust Bob Setting your heating to Taylor said: “This award is fi tting recognition of the automatically turn on/off outstanding contribution and commitment that Lily YEARLY SAVINGS £51 and countless other residents in Knowsley make towards their communities day in and day out.” Turning your thermostat down by 1 degree centigrade YEARLY SAVINGS £49 Boiling only the water you need YEARLY SAVINGS £30 Switching off unused lights YEARLY SAVINGS £24 Putting silver foil behind radiators fi xed to external walls YEARLY SAVINGS £15 Only using your dishwasher when it’s full YEARLY SAVINGS £15 Washing laundry at 40 not 60 degrees YEARLY SAVINGS £12

www.knowsley.gov.uk 5 what’s hot

Pupils get animated PUPILS in Knowsley have been getting creative during National Enterprise Week. Young people aged 16-18 took part in a creative workshop with Twin Vision. The based charity helped young people work on a piece of animation, which they kept on DVD. Alison Riley, Creative Space Manager, said: “This was a really rewarding workshop. It enabled us to reach younger people during Enterprise Week and show them that being creative can open up a vast range of employment opportunities. For more information please phone 0151 477 4000 or email [email protected]

All aboard for Council champions healthy scheme children SERVICES for children and young people in Knowsley are top quality, according to a recent inspection by KNOWSLEY leader Councillor Ron Round took time Government inspectors. out from his busy schedule to join a walking bus scheme It found that Knowsley ‘champion’ the needs of children and young people and had contributed to at Park Brow School in Southdene. improved education, social care and health. The inspection gave Knowsley Council and its partners the highest grade for all the areas they judged and said there was “an excellent or outstanding capacity to improve even further”. Strengths included the number of schools achieving ‘healthy schools’ standards, safeguarding practices, provision for teaching disabled children and young people, the youth offending service and the high proportion of looked-after children in employment, training or education. The Building Schools for the Future programme was praised for its state of the art learning centre plans, as was the integrated children’s services and the road safety education programme, which are national examples of good practice. Council Leader, Councillor Ron Round said: “There is nothing more important than ensuring the future success and well-being of our children and young people. It is an BUS BUDDIES: Cllr Ron Round and absolute priority for the Council and its partners.” Cllr Jackie Harris join the walking bus

One of the fi rst in the UK, the scheme Councillor Ron Round said: “One forms part of a wider travel plan of our main priorities is to create Pupils get a kick out of coaching encouraging all pupils and parents to safe neighbourhoods and our Road A SPORTS programme is helping 14-16 year olds walk to school. Safety and Travel Plan Team are learn more about leadership skills. Walking buses are a fun and healthy really achieving this by reducing Pupils learn to mentor and coach primary school way to travel to and from school. child casualties by 47% in our pupils in sport, obtaining skills and qualifi cations. Each walking bus has an adult ‘driver’ communities. David Hayes, Knowsley’s PE and School Sports at the front and an adult ‘conductor’ at “We are committed to keeping all Manager said: “Sports leadership is a proven the back. our residents safe. And proud to be the motivator for pupils and this programme has many The children walk in a group along only metropolitan council in the country other benefi ts as well. a set route picking up additional recognised for our ‘excellence and “It has raised their self esteem, and enabled them ‘passengers’ at specifi c ‘bus-stops’ along innovation’ under the Government’s to focus their energies in a positive way by giving the way. The bus runs rain or shine and Beacon Status. It’s a testament to the something back to their community.” everyone wears a refl ective jacket. hard work being done.”

6 www.knowsley.gov.uk what’s hot

Kids are marching on KIKRBY children are playing to the sound of their since 1978. The group practice at Southdene own beat as they celebrate award success with Community Centre in Kirkby every Friday from their marching jazz band. 6-8pm and are on the lookout for new members. Carolina’s Jazz Group have clinched the division Beverley Harris, a teacher at St Margaret Marys two UK Federation of jazz band championships Infant School in Huyton, inherited the job of for the second year running and the White Rose training the band. She said: “My grandparents ran championships. the band, then my parents and now me! The The Kirkby-based band includes 32 performing squad includes young people from the ages of members and has been marching in Knowsley 3 to 23 and all are welcome.”

Travel safe Flashing futures captured YOUNG people’s visions of the future have been captured as part of National Youth Work Week. this Christmas Billboards around the borough will showcase the work that was taken using creative digital photography. TRAVEL safe and be on your guard are the messages The young people from groups across Knowsley Knowsley Council is sending to revellers over the festive season. took inspiration from this year’s theme – mental health and emotional well being – to stage and Cabs will be in high demand over check for a licence plate at the rear photograph symbolic images that express their the Christmas and New Year period of the vehicle showing the vehicle opinions on the subject. and the council’s licensing service licence number, registration number Working with Knowsley Council’s Youth and Play is warning of the dangers of and expiry date of the licence. team, the fantastic results were then showcased at a unlicensed taxis. Drivers should be wearing an ID special Flashing Futures event held in Kirkby. Ian Rushton, Principal Licensing badge showing their photograph Offi cer, said: “Rogue taxi drivers in and another ID badge should be on unlicensed vehicles are illegal and display inside the vehicle. have not been examined by the For more information or to make council for safety and roadworthiness a complaint, please contact the and are not insured to carry Licensing Service on 443 3936 or passengers for hire. All Knowsley email [email protected] licensed vehicles are tested every six months and drivers are checked ■ A small increase in taxi by the police.” fares in the borough has Residents are being advised to recently been approved.

Fair Trade fun IT WAS the turn of the children to educate their parents when pupils from a Knowsley school invited their mums and dads to try Fair Trade products. Youngsters from Simonswood Primary in Kirkby held a market event to learn more about Fair Trade, which offers a better deal to workers in poor countries. The day also included a performance of multi-cultural music, dance and drama and a raffl e.

www.knowsley.gov.uk 7 what’s hot

NORTH Area Partnership Boards KIRKBY SOUTH KIRKBY CLOSE neighbourhood working is helping to improve services in Knowsley and you can get NORTH involved to have your say. HUYTON

ix Area Partnership involving the local community, and Boards were set decides the date and topics for the up this year across Area Public Forums. Knowsley to guide and Residents in Knowsley are welcome PRESCOT AND direct the way public to attend meetings of the board and WHISTON services are provided will observe the proceedings from SOUTH Sin your area. They aim to contribute the public gallery. Residents will not HUYTON to regenerating local neighbourhoods be expected to participate actively and communities and make a positive in the meeting but can raise any difference to local people’s lives. issues with their councillor. Members Each board includes representatives Surgery details are available through of key partners based in the different the Council’s Democratic Services areas including local councillors. section on 443-3502 or on the Council’s Your board gives clear direction for website – www.knowsley.gov.uk the future development of your area. You may wish to raise it with the HALEWOOD It is responsible for the development offi cers who have been dedicated and implementation of the local area to support your area. They are agreement - a document that sets out contactable through the council’s the aims for each area. Neighbourhoods Division on 443 3022. The board is also responsible for New help and advice hotline

A NEW help and advice service has been launched in Knowsley for people aged over 55.

IKAN stands for ‘I know a man who can’ and is aimed at improving the health and general wellbeing of people over 55. The IKAN team can do all sorts of things from arranging a handyman to health checks. The team can also provide information on local activities, clubs and transport, pension advice, fi re safety checks and personal alarms. The multi agency team includes an older persons advocate, senior occupational therapy assistant community development worker, social care worker and trained staff who deal with cardiac rehabilitation and medicine management. The IKAN team can also provide information on benefi ts, health, social care, home safety, fi re safety, community safety, leisure activities, and education. The IKAN team provide their services FREE to Knowsley residents aged over 55. See what the team can do for you, call them on 0800 694 0270 to arrange a home visit or fi nd out when they will be in your area.

8 www.knowsley.gov.uk We take a 4in focus closer look We look at support for parents in the borough, businesses that are full of innovation and enterprise, and how partners are coming together to create a safer Knowsley.

Full of enterprise 14 12 1155 WWorkingorking fforor a safersafer A partnershippartnership KKnowsleynowsley fforor parentsparents

www.knowsley.gov.uk 9 4 in focus A partnership for parents Parents of children with Special Educational Needs are getting more support than ever before thanks to the Knowsley Parent Partnership.

BY VICKI GIANELLI

ORE than a Huyton, was at her wits’ end quarter of with son James, 13, who attends School judged children in Knowsley Hey School. ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted Knowsley are “Jame s’s dif fi culties in school registered as were becoming a constant BUZZING classrooms, unique having nightmare for me. I always knew programmes and exceptional teaching and SpecialM Educational Needs (SEN). he had a problem, but it wasn’t learning led to a glowing Ofsted report for Knowsley Parent Partnership (KPP) until he was diagnosed with Knowsley Central Area Support Centre. helps their families with everything Attention Defi cit hyperactivity The special school was rated from fi lling in forms and writing letters Disorder (ADHD) and conduct ‘outstanding’ by Government inspectors. to supporting them in meetings with disorder that I knew for sure. It provides education for pupils with schools and other professionals. “You would never be able to complex needs including learning Chris Lee, Parent Partnership tell that a child has special diffi culties and social, emotional and Coordinator, said: “We provide educational needs by simply behavioural diffi culties. information and support for parents looking at them, so people would The inspector’s report cited the of children with SEN or disabilities. judge James without realising. innovative emotional well-being This means any sort of special needs “Half the battle for parents of programme and the extraordinary from physical disability to autism, to children with SEN is diagnosis. It personalised behaviour management behavioural diffi culties and learning was such a relief to fi nd out that needs or speech and language James’ conditions can be treated. programmes as one of the ‘magical diffi culties. “I fi rst contacted the KPP in ingredients of this very successful school’. “Issues that we deal with range November 2005 when I was at the Chair of Governors Steve Donnelly from helping parents understand end of my tether with the whole said: “I am proud to be part of this individual education plans, system and with their help I was wonderful school and I am constantly addressing support in schools, able to see a light at the end of amazed by the achievements of the to looking at transport issues the tunnel. staff, and more importantly the and exclusions from school.” “A dedicated worker helped me achievements of the pupils.” There is also a Choice Adviser to fi ll in forms and accompanied based within KPP who provides me to important meetings. They information and support to all really push issues for you and parents for the transition from even set up a meeting for me primary to secondary school, with the head of the local helping them make an informed education authority. decision about which school they “Not enough people are want their children to go to. aware of the parent partnership and the support Tracy and James’ story that they offer. Just knowing AFTER countless trips to the someone is there to listen to headmaster’s offi ce for bad my worries and concerns is a behaviour Tracy Walsh, from true lifesaver.”

10 www.knowsley.gov.uk in focus 4

Could you help? Could you spare two hours a week to be an Independent Parental Supporter? Full training is offered to volunteers who will work with parents, accompanying them on school visits and helping to fi ll in forms. Visit www.knowsley.gov.uk/ parentpartnershipservice for more information or call 0151 443 3283.

www.knowsley.gov.uk 11 4 in focus Full of enterprise

Businesses were honoured for their investment, innovation and contribution to the local community at the annual Knowsley Economic Forum Enterprise Awards.

IGHT fi rms from inward investment and enterprise the borough picked and this event is a fantastic way of up awards at a recognising businesses and what glitzy ceremony, they do for the borough. which raised more “It is thanks to the council’s than £2,000 for hard work and successful local charity.E Held at the Huyton Suite, It businesses that we have reduced was the Mayor of Knowsley’s fourth unemployment from 22% to 4% annual charity evening. – the largest decrease of any local The winner of the Best Overall authority in Great Britain over the Company in Knowsley award went to past 20 years. We are also proud engineering company Primary Fluid to be one of only fi ve authorities Power Ltd, which has been based in in the country to be highly Knowsley for 30 years and employs commended in the recent more than 100 people. The company Enterprising Britain Awards.” has designed and manufactured several innovative systems including a unique rolling bridge in Paddington and a Dutch River Swing Bridge at Goole, East Yorkshire. Tricks of the trade The bridge has a contemporary UNEMPLOYED Brian Johnson completing Fusion21 courses design, created by Thomas from Tower Hill, Kirkby, had over the last four years. 146 of Heatherwick, who dreamed up the given up hope of learning a new them have been from Knowsley. unusual structure that stands in trade – until he heard about a Run by a group of Merseyside- the waterside regeneration area of unique range of construction based housing associations, west London, but it was Primary Fluid Power Ltd’s team of engineers training courses called Fusion21. the training programmes cover who developed the technology of “Fusion21 gave me a chance to everything from kitchen and hydraulic ramps and electronic get started at something I wanted bathroom fi tting, multi-skilling controls to make the £250,000 to do – plastering. It’s fantastic and window fi tting to plastering. bridge unfold with elegance. from my point of view because Trainees learn ‘on the job’ with Stephen Merrie, Primary Fluid they are putting me through my contractors employed by the Powers Managing Director, said: NVQ and it is everything that I Fusion21 housing associations “Winning this award is fantastic have wanted,” Brian says. to refurbish their homes. recognition to our talented “With being 38, I didn’t think At present it is restricted management and highly qualifi ed there was much chance of Brian, now employed by to people who are New Deal workforce. It was a welcome learning a trade. Now I’ve got a Bramall Construction, is one eligible (generally those who are surprise to even be nominated.” job, money in my pocket and am of more than 324 unemployed unemployed and over 18) but this Cllr Graham Morgan, Knowsley really enjoying what I do. The men and women from across is changing from April 1, 2007 Council’s Regeneration and future’s looking good.” Merseyside who have gained when it will be open to a wider Neighbourhoods Cabinet Member, permanent employment after client group. said: “Knowsley is committed to

12 www.knowsley.gov.uk in focus 4

ROLL OF HONOUR Best Overall Company in Knowsley: Winner: Primary Fluid Power, Knowsley Business Park Highly Commended: QVC Knowsley Industrial Estate, Kirkby

Best Community or Social Enterprise: Winner: Your Travel Boroughwide, North Mersey Business Park Highly Commended: Acorn Venture Urban Farm

Best Contribution to the Environment: Winner: Knowsley Start Ltd, Huyton Highly Commended: Acorn Venture Urban Farm

Best New Business: Winner: Banknote Bodyguard Ltd, Knowsley Industrial Estate Kirkby Highly Commended: Merrie Designs

Best Small Business: Winner: Aerelink, Knowsley Industrial Estate, Kirkby Highly Commended: King Construction, Knowsley Industrial Estate, Kirkby

Most Innovative Business or Organisation: Winner: GETRAG, Halewood Highly Commended: Glen Dimplex Home Appliances

Best Enterprise Student: Winner: Lauren Coleman of Kirkby

Best Silver Entrepreneur: Winner: Mike Howl – 008 Productions

www.knowsley.gov.uk 13 4 in focus Role model for reducing crime

An initiative from the police, council and partners is cutting crime by up to 80% in the borough.

NTI social behaviour is “We recognise that big news at the anti-social behaviour moment and a top priority in is one of the most Knowsley. important things A“Unfortunately, it only takes a very small group or even an that residents want individual to make the lives of many others a misery,” says us to tackle.” Jackie Harris, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Social Inclusion. “But the police and council are working Crime and Disorder Reduction together on several initiatives to Partnership, says: “A lot has tackle this problem.” already been done and we will Initiatives include intensive build on these successes to policing operations known as reduce crime even further. Model Beats, during which council “However, there is much still to do and partners carry out a high and residents can play a vital part by visibility blitz on certain areas. reporting anything they see. We do This could include vehicle stop take it seriously and will act.” checks, inspections of licensed Anti Social Behaviour Orders premises, litter picking, fi xing (ASBOs) are another weapon in the street lighting and cutting back war on nuisance. These are issued overgrown shrubbery. when other intervention methods Model Beats have recently taken have failed, and if offenders break place in areas such as Northwood their order, they will be arrested. in Kirkby and Brookwood in Huyton, Currently Knowsley’s Crime and which have seen crime drop by as Disorder Reduction Partnership much as 80%. has eight ASBOs and four criminal Section 30 dispersal orders – ASBOs on troublemakers in the giving police the power to move on borough. trouble groups – have also helped “We recognise that anti-social reduce crime in areas including behaviour is one of the most Huyton, Kirkby and Prescot. There important things that residents want are currently orders on Longview us to tackle,” says Councillor Harris. Shops, Huyton, Kennelworth “This is a top priority for us in Avenue, Kirkby, and Parbrook Road Knowsley and we will continue to use and Altbridge Road, Huyton. every power available to us to crack Louise Evans, anti-social down on this mindless minority, behaviour manager for Knowsley’s improving safety for everyone.”

www.knowsley.gov.uk 15 crime special

WINTER Reading some newspaper reports, it’s easy to think life is SAFETY Q&A becoming increasingly dangerous with crime soaring. At this time of the year, our But behind the headlines are some surprising statistics. thoughts turn to holidays, family celebrations, gifts and being merry. But it’s also important not to overlook safety. Here, John Sayers, acquisitive crime manager for Knowsley’s Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, gives his The truth fi ve top tips on staying safe this winter. Keep your vehicle safe Don’t leave the car unattended about crime with the engine running on cold mornings to defrost – this is an open invitation to thieves. NOWSLEY “Sadly, excessive drinking and Similarly, leaving gifts or shopping residents are violent crime often go hand in hand; bags on display in your car is now 38% less and paying for a drug habit can be the an early Christmas present for likely to suffer motivation for burglary. In Knowsley criminals. violent crime we offer successful programmes for Don’t kill the kids with than last year; substance abusers to help them off kindness andK 44% less likely to be robbed. drugs and back into society,” she says. Our homes are safer too. The police, Knowsley Council and Every year children are killed or Domestic burglaries are down partners are working to further maimed riding scramblers or by a third (33%) and theft from reduce crime over the next year too. In mini-motos. How will you feel if a person has dropped to 39%. the meantime, says Alistair, residents your generous gift lands your child “Violence, theft and burglary should follow simple safety advice but in hospital, or worse? Be fi rm and are all offences which cause great not let fear of crime affect their lives. say no. distress and reducing crimes of “When something bad happens, Be merry in moderation this nature is a top priority,” says it can make people feel very fearful. There’s nothing wrong with Alistair Buckley, Chief Inspector In actual fact, the chances of you enjoying a tipple at Christmas, for Knowsley. becoming a victim are very slim. but know your limits. Most festive Preventative work, including But should you be unfortunate be fi ghts start with alcohol, some support for substance abusers assured that we will do everything and promotion of sensible drinking possible to assist you and bring with nasty consequences. If you’re messages, have helped drive justice to those responsible.” drinking, don’t drive. the decreases, as Cllr Jackie Anyone with information about Keep your possessions safe Harris, Cabinet Member for crime in Knowsley can contact Get valuable presents such as bikes Community Safety and Social Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, and other treasured possessions Inclusion, explains. free and in confi dence. marked with your postcode and house number or use the Smartwater system (see page 4). There’s a better chance of seeing them again if they are ever stolen. Keep out unwanted visitors Don’t invite in the burglars; never leave handbags or car keys on display from the outside and make sure all windows and doors are locked at all times. Be sure the carol singer is what he appears to be; use a door chain and viewer until you are satisfi ed. And most of all have a very enjoyable – and safe – Christmas and a happy, crime free, New Year!

16 www.knowsley.gov.uk

EE1078110781 KnowsleyKnowsley vv2.indd2.indd 1166 11/12/06/12/06 2:59:122:59:12 pmpm crime special Beware of bogus traders

Residents are being warned to be on their guard, after a recent rise in unoffi cial traders working in the borough.

NOWSLEY they cold call and do not provide Trading any cancellation rights. This kind of Standards incident can also have a traumatic have received affect on the victim increasing the fear a number of of crime in the community.” reports of bogus If you live in Knowsley and need Kcallers throughout Knowsley recently. work done on your home avoid using Mike Leyden, Knowsley’s Trading traders who turn up on your doorstep Standards Manager, said: “These and stick to the following tips: traders often prey on the elderly and 1. Always get at least three quotes vulnerable members of the community before having work done. with their work often being of a poor 2. Ask for a quote on headed paper, standard, over priced and sometimes with the fi nal cost including VAT and left unfi nished with the trader any extra charges. becoming untraceable after they 3. Get the traders full name, address have been paid. and landline telephone number before “They initially quote a low price agreeing to have any work done. which rises when they say they have Elderly or vulnerable members completed the work and there have of the Knowsley community who even been instances when the trader need work carried out on their home has taken the resident to the bank can contact the Trader Approved when they have said they didn’t have Scheme Knowsley on 0151 546 6680. enough money at hand to pay.” This scheme is administered by the These unscrupulous traders are Knowsley Pensioners Advocacy Service not only breaching civil legislation and consists of a list of traders that by carrying out unsatisfactory work have been vetted by Knowsley Trading but they could also be committing Standards. Report bogus callers now breaches of criminal legislation if on 0151 443 4737.

“These traders Five top scams often prey on 1 There’s a ‘slate loose’ on your roof or the elderly and some tarmac ‘left over’ after another job. vulnerable members 2 Trying to rush you into a decision with special offers. of the community.” 3 Pretending to be from the council – all offi cial visitors always arrange an appointment beforehand. 4 Says that their car has broken down and can they use your telephone. 5 Claiming to be ill and in need of help.

www.knowsley.gov.uk 17

EE1078110781 KnowsleyKnowsley vv2.indd2.indd 1177 11/12/06/12/06 2:59:222:59:22 pmpm crime special Getting hot on cold calling

In an attempt to combat bogus callers Knowsley Council is setting up a pilot No Cold Calling Zone.

What is Cold Calling? residents doors as to do so will put them in Anyone who knocks on your door uninvited. breach of the No Cold Calling Zone. Residents Hotline will also be given cards, which they can hand to What is a No Cold any persistent callers who may still breach the against hate Calling Zone? zone. VICTIMS of hate crimes such as This is an area whereby the residents have made a homophobia, racism and domestic decision that they do not want anyone knocking on What is the aim of No Cold violence now have a new hotline their doors offering to sell goods or carryout work Calling Zones? that offers help 24 hours a day. on their property. The aim of the zone is to reduce the number The hotline, 0800 953 44 33 The zone is easy to identify as signs are of unwanted callers knocking on residents is free, will not show up on your erected on lampposts and/or walls at the doors as many of these could be bogus callers, phone bill and you do not have to access points to the zone. Residents are also distraction burglars and rogue traders. give your name. given free No Cold Calling Zone Stickers Our aim is to intercept those callers who are The fully trained and and encouraged to place them in their front intent on persuading residents to let them carry sympathetic operators can make windows so unwanted callers are aware they out work on their property, or offering services sure you get the help you need, are unwelcome and should not knock on or goods at “TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE PRICES”. whether it is from the police, council, housing association or other agency. Alternatively, they can offer an understanding ear. Parking that’s on the mark PARKING in Knowsley is safer than ever, thanks to rigorous security measures in all the borough’s car parks. Knowsley is the fi rst and only council on Merseyside to achieve the Park Mark Safer Parking award - presented to car parks which deter criminal activity and create a safer environment for customers and their cars – in every one of its car parks. The award is granted to parking areas that have achieved the requirements of an assessment conducted by the police – including a very low number of car park based crimes.

18 www.knowsley.gov.uk Life in the lifestyle borough We talk exclusively to Oscar nominated playwright Willy Russell, catch up with the Kirkby girl competing for a dream job with Jade, and take a look at healthy living and better sports.

A dreamdream 2222 jjobob withwith Breaking JJadeade tthehe aaddictionddiction 2211

20 My 2255 Knowsley Sports

www.knowsley.gov.uk 19

EE1078110781 KnowsleyKnowsley v2.inddv2.indd 1919 11/12/06/12/06 3:09:443:09:44 pmpm lifestyle Work, rest and plays

E’S the man who his life, through long letters to his own Willy Russell talks exclusively to VICKI created Shirley hero, the cult musician Morrissey. GIANELLI about his latest work, Valentine, “Everything I write has some Educating Rita connection with my past and certainly, The Wrong Boy, his hobbies and his and Blood the defi ning moment in The Wrong Boy memories of growing up in Knowsley. Brothers, one happened in Knowsley, but you’ll have ofH the longest-running musicals in to read the book to fi nd out more!” the West End. After leaving school, Willy worked His plays are constantly in briefl y as a hairdresser in Kirkby production, he’s had Oscar before heading to Kirkby College to nominations, critical acclaim and start his road back to education. boasts a worldwide following. But far Hobbies like bird watching and from getting carried away by it all, the sketching take up most of Willy’s spare 59-year-old is the fi rst to admit he time but his quest to write the next big owes a huge debt to his upbringing in thing appears too enticing to sacrifi ce. Knowsley for his phenomenal success. “You are only as good as the last thing The young Willy Russell enjoyed you’ve written,” he quipped, “it’s a an “idyllic, rural childhood with a fast cliché but it’s so true.” talking sensibility” growing So what words of wisdom did Willy up on the former Maypole Estate in have for budding writers? “Don’t trust Whiston. “I had a cultural Liverpool the advice of anyone who would give upbringing in terms of the language,” you advice,” he says with a wry smile. he explained. “But equally I had it With his infectious enthusiasm and completely rural because we had the creative wit, it’s clear that Willy has run of Lord Derby’s estate.” managed to retain his down to earth, Willy gained “lots of inspiration” Liverpudlian sense of humour. from his school days at Maypole Primary School then at Woolfall Secondary School. A selection of his experiences are brought to life in his most recent literary adventure, The Wrong Boy. The book, which is currently being adapted for a major television series, is about a hapless northern teenager who recounts the bizarre, hilarious and terrible story of

A young Willy Russell

What’s next for Willy? Could Blood Brothers the movie soon be hitting our screens? Together with Alan Parker, Willy has written the screenplay to the long-running hit show. He explained: “I am currently in talks with American fi lm companies to fi nance the project.” But the playwright insists its still early days: “Until I’m sitting there on the opening night of the movie, I’m treating it as highly unlikely that it will happen.” Willy applies the same philosophy to each of his projects, stating that he “never takes things for granted”. Yet with Blood Brothers still playing to large and enthusiastic audiences twenty years after it fi rst opened in 1983, how could tinseltown resist?

20 www.knowsley.gov.uk lifestyle

It might be some people’s idea of a nightmare, but Kirkby girl Rebecca McCormick may soon land her dream job – working for Big Brother TV star Jade. BY VICKI GIANELLI A dream job with Jade

UPER-ORGANISED And she’s confi dent of success after Rebecca (pictured fi ghting off competition from thousands below) is in the running of applications to reach the last 10. to land a life-changing Rebecca said: “My job as Media and role as a personal Communications Offi cer at the NDC assistant to Jade Goody has defi nitely helped me prepare for Sand is being followed by the cameras the role as Jade’s PA. for Living TV’s reality show, Jade’s PA. “I’ve always worked for directors and Rebecca works for the New Deal managers of organisations and I’m for Communities (NDC) project in used to doing tasks for busy people. Knowsley but she’s swapped the River But if I got the job I’d defi nitely miss Alt Centre in Huyton for a fl ash Finchley the local people, and my colleagues, pad in London whilst she fi ghts it out especially my boss.” for her dream job. Mum-of-two Jade has made millions since appearing on Big Brother in 2002 and now runs a successful beauty “It would be a salon, has her own perfume and is a regular in the glossy magazines. fantastic challenge The 12-month role means a move to London for the winner who will be for me and it’s expected to keep an eye on Jade’s my dream to fi nances and home life and handle the ever persistent paparazzi that break into the hound the celebrity wherever she goes. So is Rebecca, who grew up in media industry.” Rowan Drive, Kirkby, phased by the thought of managing Jade’s hectic lifestyle? She said: “It would be a fantastic challenge for me and it’s my dream to break into the media industry. I’d havea real laugh working with her and being a celebrity PA is my idea of the perfect job.” The fi nal 10 contestants are now living together and attending Jade’s recruitment academy whilst competing in a series of tests and challenges. Each week, one fi nalist is sent packing. To follow Rebecca’s progress tune into Jade’s PA on Mondays at 10pm on Living TV.

www.knowsley.gov.uk 21 lifestyle

Breaking the addiction Smoking is the biggest single cause of early death and ill health in Knowsley – making it the number one health priority for the borough.

22 www.knowsley.gov.uk lifestyle

ERA O’HARE Over the next smoked for 40 three years, years before services aim to Fight off Flu deciding to quit. help more than Luckily for the 5,000 Knowsley this winter grandmother from people quit Aigburth,V expert advice and support smoking. Those most at risk from Infl uenza was available from Roy Castle Fag Ends Knowsley are being offered FREE jabs across – a community-based stop smoking Director of Public service now available in Knowsley. Health Dr Diana Forrest the borough this Christmas. Ten months on, Vera is still off the said: “Smoking is the biggest single The vaccination takes two minutes and is safe, cigarettes. “I was having a cigarette cause of ill health and early death in painless, effective. You can claim your free fl u jab one morning when I realised that I the borough and we, and our if you are: couldn’t actually taste it. So I decided colleagues at Roy Castle Fag ■ Aged 65 or over to quit and went along to a Roy Castle Ends, are committed to doing ■ Have a serious illness, including: serious heart or Fag Ends session at Garston everything we can to support respiratory conditions (including asthma), kidney Library,” she said. local people to quit.” disease, liver disease, diabetes or lowered immunity “I found the advisors really helpful. The Roy Castle Lung Cancer due to disease or treatment They even ring me up to see how I am Foundation Head of Tobacco Control ■ A resident in a long-stay residential care or and if I need any support. I still go Christine Owens said: “Fag Ends along to sessions occasionally and sessions will be held all over nursing home ■ have my lung function tested. Knowsley at the same time and in A main carer for older or disabled people deemed “My children and grandchildren were the same place every week, so to be at risk if the carer falls ill. thrilled I had quit. I was never pressured people can drop in whenever they to quit by my family, it was something I want. Because no two people are the While you may feel under the weather for a few days decided to do for myself and I think that same, every smoker needs different after having the fl u jab, it is impossible to get fl u from is why I’ve been successful.” support to successfully quit. the fl u jab. Roy Castle Fag Ends has helped “This is what makes the Fag Chris Mimnagh, Medical Director of Knowsley PCT nearly 15,000 people in Merseyside Ends approach successful; we tailor and a local GP said: “Anyone can get fl u but it can quit smoking in the last fi ve years. our service to what each individual be more serious for people of any age with a serious Deaths from lung cancer are 74% needs. The important thing for people medical condition and the over 65s. Infl uenza can higher in Knowsley to know is that we’re here and we make you very ill and in some cases it can be fatal. The than the national can help!” fl u jab is very safe and effective and is the best way to average. FREEPHONE 0800 195 2131 for your protect yourself and your family from the fl u.” Knowsley Health & nearest Roy Castle Fag Ends session. “We are urging all our over 65s to get their fl u jab. Social Care has The jab must be given every year as the Infl uenza quadrupled funding virus is always changing, so last year’s vaccine won’t in the borough, Up in smoke protect you.” dedicating £1m a To fi nd out more about the fl u or the fl u jab contact year to reducing Smoking costs Knowsley Health & your GP, Knowsley Patient Advice and Liaison Service the number Social Care in excess of £6m a year, not (PALS) on 0800 073 0578, NHS Direct on 0845 4647, of smokers in the including the wider costs to society such or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or www.dh.gov.uk borough. as working days lost to sickness leave.

Your nearest drop-in session

Monday Tuesday Kirkby. 5.00pm – 7.00pm Towerhill Resource Centre, 1-2-1 (appointments only). Centre 63, Kirkby. Hilton Grace Community & Southdene Community Kirkby. 9.30am – 11.15am 9.30am – 11.30am 9.00am – 10.45am Youth Centre, Halewood. Centre. 1.00pm – 2.45pm Heatwaves Community Arncliffe Community Northwood Community 9.30am – 11.15pm Swanside Community Centre. 1.30pm – 3.15pm Centre, Halewood. 1.00pm Centre. 10.00am – 11.45am Prescot Library. Centre. 1.00pm – 2.45pm Nutgrove Villa 1-2-1 – 2.45pm Whiston Health Centre. 9.00am – 10.45am (appointments only), Mosscroft Community 9.00am – 10.45am Westvale Community Wednesday Huyton. 5.30pm – 7.30pm Centre, Huyton. Huyton 1-2-1 (appointments Centre, Kirkby. Halewood 1-2-1 1.00pm – 2.45pm only), Archway Road. 9.30am – 10.45am (appointments only). Friday Westvale Community 2.00pm – 5.00pm Twigg Lane Clinic 9.30am – 11.30am Prescot 1-2-1 (appointments Centre, Kirkby. The Gate Community (appointments only), Library. 10.00am only). 9.30am – 11.00am 1.00pm – 2.45pm Centre, 600 Princess Drive. Huyton. 9.00am – 11.00pm – 11.45am Resource Centre. 1.00pm – 2.45pm Kirkby Health Suite 1-2-1 Southdene Community 10.00am – 11.45am For further information (appointments only), Centre. 10.00am – 11.45am Freephone 0800 195 2131

www.knowsley.gov.uk 23 lifestyle ask the expert

With Christmas dinner 5ºC) within one and a half hours – It’s vital to wash hands in For more keep for less than three days. A hot soapy water before information on its way HELEN handling food, after using the contact the Public What common mistakes can I toilet, touching rubbish bins or Health and WILLIAMS, one of Q avoid when preparing food? pets, coughing or sneezing and Consumer Check fi sh is fresh – look for after handling raw foods. Protection Division Knowsley Council’s A clear bright eyes and fi rm When preparing food, wash knives on 443 4723 or texture. Check fruit (including and preparation surfaces between visit the Food Standards dried) and nuts are fresh with no stages using hot, soapy water. Don’t Environmental Health Agencies blemishes, mould or insect holes. use the same utensils for raw food Website on Offi cers, answers your Store in dry, cool conditions. and cooked food without washing ‘Safer Christmas Ensure dairy products are kept them in between. Eating’ at questions on avoiding refrigerated when not in use. Keep Don’t leave food standing around http://www. fresh meat and defrosting foods at at room temperature – put it in the eatwell.gov.uk/ food poisoning this the bottom of the fridge to prevent fridge. Never handle food if you have healthydiet/ dripping onto other foods. Put a stomach upset. Cover any cuts with seasonsand festive season. chilled and frozen foods in the a clean waterproof dressing. And celebrations/ refrigerator or freezer as soon as keep pets out of the kitchen, as they winter/ saferchristmas you can and try not to overload can spread bacteria. What should I remember your fridge.

Q when cooking my turkey Keep the fridge at below 5C and OVER for Christmas day? your freezer below minus 18C. TO YOU If you w The three things to remember Observe microwave cooking and question ans ould like a are: thaw well, cook well, and standing times, check “use-by” council e wer A xpert mied and think a help, write to store well (see our guide below). dates on pre-packed and ght be able Knowsl Ask the ey to Always follow instructions, remove perishable foods. Wash hands Buildin News, MunicipalExpert, giblets before cooking, and cook thoroughly before preparing food. Huyton, gs, Archway Road, Knowsl email to stuffi ng separately – otherwise stuff ey, L39 9YU knowsl the neck area only. Should I be wary of where @knowsl eynews or ey.gov.uk Keep blood and water from Q I buy food from? defrosting meat away from other Yes. Always buy your food food, work surfaces, or cutting A from a retailer who has a boards. And always wash your clean, well organised shop. Check hands thoroughly after handling chilled or frozen products are raw poultry. displayed below the load line of Cook at a high temperature (Gas the fridge or freezer and avoid mark 7/425ºF/220ºC) for the fi rst any which are overloaded or untidy. 30-45 minutes, then a lower As soon as you get home, put all temperature (Gas Mark 3/325º/ fresh or frozen food in your fridge F170ºC) for the remainder of the or freezer – and use an insulated cooking time as shown in the table cool bag to carry them home if below. Skewer into the thickest part you can. of the thigh to test if it is cooked – 12 tips for a safe Christmas juices should run clear with no sign I sometimes end up 1. Don’t prepare food too far in advance of red or pink – serve immediately. Q panicking in the kitchen 2. Take chilled/frozen food home in cool bags Store leftovers in the fridge (below at Christmas – what should I 3. Check the ‘use by’ dates remember to do? 4. Keep your kitchen clean 5. Keep your fridge between 0 and 5 degrees centigrade Oven ready weight Thawing time Cooking time Serves 6. Wash your hands before and after handling food (foil wrapped) 7. Keep cooked and raw food separate 550g -1.4kg 4-10hrs 1-1.5 hrs 2-4 8. Defrost food thoroughly before use 1.4-2.3kg (3-5lb) 10-15hrs 1.5-2 hrs 4-6 9. Keep pets away from food 2.3-3.6kg (5-8lb) 15-18hrs 2-3 hrs 6-10 10. Store cooked food above raw food in a refrigerator 3.6-5kg (8-11lb) 18-20hrs 3-3.5 hrs 10-15 11. Follow cooking instructions on packets 5-6.8kg (11-15lb) 20-24hrs 3.5-4.5 hrs 15-20 12. Cook food thoroughly

24 www.knowsley.gov.uk lifestyle SPORT Commonwealth hero inspires young athletes CHILD athletes in Knowsley were given someone to look up to at a recent borough competition – when high jump silver medallist Martyn Bernard popped in to cheer them on!

Martyn, who took silver at New look leisure this year’s Commonwealth Games, was on hand to centre takes shape present medals to the winners of the Knowsley WORK is well underway on Kirkby’s new £12m Primary Schools Sports leisure centre that is due to open next autumn. Hall Athletics Final at Local councillors including council leader Ron Round Kirkby Sports Centre. joined Chief Executive Sheena Ramsey on a tour of the More than 120 site to inspect progress and get a feel for the centre, primary school which will bring state of the art sports and leisure pupils took part in facilities to the town. the competition after Since preparation work started on the Cherryfi eld winning through Drive site in January much progress has been made, elimination heats. with the shape of the building now clearly visible. The Once again there roof is now being completed and the swimming pool were a number of bases are in place. Over the coming months the centre outstanding individual will be made watertight and fi tting out work will begin performances as in the New Year. pupils competed to As well as the large pool, the centre will boast a sports become a ‘Champion hall, two fl oodlit artifi cial pitches, a learner pool, fi tness of Knowsley’ in their gym, facilities for boxing and two multi purpose halls for particular event. It was activities such as martial arts and aerobics, benefi ting a good evening for St both individuals and sports clubs alike. Laurence’s, Kirkby, Cllr Eddie Conner, Cabinet Member for Leisure, as pupil Bradley O’ Community and Culture at Knowsley Council, said: “It is Connor took gold in relay, sprint and Aloysius) taking gold, silver and pleasing to see the new Kirkby Leisure Centre start to long jump. Emily Canning, also from bronze respectively. take shape. This will be a superb facility for the borough St Laurence’s also secured gold in Sports Hall Athletics competitions, and will replace the town’s old leisure centre, which is the vertical and long jump events. run in Knowsley for the past 12 years coming to the end of its useful life. The girls balance test went to by the council’s sports development “As a local authority, we are committed to providing sudden death with Amy Ryan (St team, enable young people to take part excellent facilities to encourage people to enjoy sport and Margaret Mary’s), Jodie Scott (St in competitive athletics within the safe physical activity, which is vitally important for good health Laurence’s) and Louise Nolan (St confi nes of a sports hall. and fi tness.”

A healthy boost Knowsley lads conquer the US GYM facilities at Huyton users to monitor each and This will allow the centre TWO Knowsley footballers are shining in the States after Leisure Centre have been every workout to help them to tailor future provision they were spotted playing for Knowsley’s Dallas Cup side. given a £200,000 refi t. get the best possible results according to demand. Andy Taylor from Huyton is now in his second season The Active Fitness gym at from their training. The Mayor of Knowsley, Cllr in America after winning a scholarship in Oklahoma. And the Roby Road centre now The VIVO system is the Joan Quilliam, and Knowsley’s he has caught the eye, winning selection to a university boasts 60 pieces of quality very latest idea from gym cabinet member for Leisure, league select side. cardiovascular and strength equipment manufacturers, Community and Culture, Luke Garvey, a former Knowsley Hey School pupil who equipment. Life Fitness, and also allows Eddie Connor, attended the is in his fi rst season in the US, has been named in the The centre is also the fi rst staff to monitor how often opening of the new facilities. representative side’s second team. in the country to be kitted out individual pieces of equipment Cllr Connor said: “The new Andy’s mum Julie said: “Knowsley Council and all with the latest innovation in are being used and how gym at Huyton leisure centre involved in the Dallas Cup must be very proud of these intelligent technology, enabling popular classes are. is extremely impressive now.” two young men.”

www.knowsley.gov.uk 25

All the latest events the guide near you What’s on and where, in and around the area, with seasonal pantomimes, live concerts, bird watching walks, and New Year’s Eve fi reworks.

As you can see, culture is alive and kicking in Knowsley – with a whole host of exciting things to do this winter. But culture is broader than that – it’s everything we don’t have to do to live, but need to do to feel alive.

That’s not just the obvious things like sports and arts, libraries and museums but a broader range of activities including parks, children’s play, heritage, visitor attractions and other leisure activities.

Put yourself in the Christmas spirit with “Dashing through the snow!” a special Christmas concert featuring the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra at Halewood Sports Centre on 12 Getting involved in cultural activities December. Knowsley’s – whether it’s just going to the park or status as a key funder of enjoying a concert – can improve your the Phil means that three Knowsley has some of the best managed parks in the country, quality of life and well being as well times a year this world- with seven Green Flag Awards to prove it. Don’t let the cold as strengthening your community. So famous orchestra comes to weather put you off – there are events on in the parks all winter. whatever takes your fancy in the listings you, to perform at venues Enjoy the Winter Wonderland at Court Hey Park or pop along – just get out there and enjoy it! throughout the Borough. to your local park in February to make a nesting box.

www.knowsley.gov.uk 27 the guide what’s on From fun and adventure in Jack and the Beanstalk to the heartfelt songs of Ray Lamontage, there’s something for everyone in the next few months.

DECEMBER Venue: Prescot Museum 17 – Christmas 14 – Coal, Bricks and 01 – Jack and the An exploration of traditional Cracker Rotting Waste Beanstalk: Twist celebrations of lights from Time: 12-4pm Time: 1-3pm and Sprout across the globe. Find out Venue: Halewood Park Venue: Stadt Moers Park, Time: 2pm & 7.30pm more about the traditions Santa’s Grotto, sleigh rides, Pottery Lane, Whiston Venue: Liverpool Everyman of Hanukkah, Diwali and tinsel trail and creative An historical walk around Stadt The Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas and fi nd out about Christmas workshops. Moers Park and the surrounding Panto team returns for another the role light plays in each of Tel: 488 6151 area looking at changes in the large slice of Christmas them. landscape compared with old pudding-sized fun and frolics Until February 25. 22 – Western Promise/ photographs. with Jack and the Beanstalk Tel: 430 7787 Amsterdam Tel: 489 1239 – Let’s Twist and Sprout! A Time: 7pm unique panto you can shake, 15 – Santa Claus: Venue: Carling Academy 2, 22 – Basic Birds rattle and roll in the aisles to as The Musical Liverpool Time: 7-9pm Jack Trotter saves his true love Time: 2pm & 7.30pm Plus The Real Kicks, The Crescent Venue: Court Hey Park, Roby whilst battling against the ‘Giant Venue: Liverpool Empire and Man from Michael. Proceeds Road, Huyton of all Giants’. From the producers of Chitty donated to Strummerville Until January 27. Chitty Bang Bang comes an – a charitable foundation for the A guide to basic garden birds Tel: 709 4776 original and unforgettable production of new music launched with RSPB offi cer Chris Tynan, Christmas musical. Coronation by Joe Strummer’s family. in preparation for the Big 04 – Northern Lights Street favourites Roy Tel: 0870 771 2000 Garden Bird Watch on 27th and Times: 9.15am–5pm (Monday Barraclough (Santa) and Susie 28th. Bookings only! & Friday), 9.15am-7pm Blake (The Ice Queen) star 28 & 29 – Ken Dodd Tel: 443 3682 (Tuesday & Thursday), Closed alongside tap dancing penguins Happiness Show Wednesday, 10am-4pm and a 12-piece live orchestra. Time: 7pm 26 – Ray Lamontage (Saturday), 12-4pm (Sunday). Until January 7. Venue: Philharmonic Hall, Time: 7.30pm Venue: Kirkby Gallery, Kirkby Tel: 0870 606 3536 Liverpool Venue: Philharmonic Hall, Library A feast of laughter and songs Liverpool An exhibition of giant lanterns 16 – Holly and the Ivy from this comic genius and With heartfelt songs and a made in partnership with the Time: 12noon-4pm showbiz legend provides a fun- highly distinctive voice, Ray’s Liverpool Lantern Company Venue: Copthorne Community fi lled evening celebrating fi fty debut album, ‘Trouble’, has led and Knowsley Community. Until Centre, Kirkby hilarious years as one of the him to be described in terms February 18. Festive fun for all the family best-loved comedians in the UK. of Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Otis Tel: 443 4290 with a series of unique events. Tel: 709 3789 Redding and Ray Charles... Not Includes winter workshops bad for starters! 05 – Winter Lights making Christmas decorations 31 – New Year’s Eve Tel: 709 3789 Time: 10am-1pm & 2-5pm from natural materials found in Fireworks (Tuesday-Saturday), 2-5pm the park. Time: 5pm 27 – Dawn Chorus (Sunday). Tel: 443 3682 Venue: Liverpool Town Hall, Time: 7-9am Dale Street Venue: Huyton Lane Wetland New Year’s Eve fi reworks will Park, Huyton Lane, Huyton highlight Liverpool’s historic Celebrate Big Garden Bird Town Hall as an opener for Watch, come along and see how Liverpool’s 800th birthday year. many species we can spot. Don’t Tel: 233 2008 forget your binoculars. JANUARY Tel: 443 3682 14 – Kirkby Mossland Seasonal Walk 28 – Derek Acorah Time: 10am–1pm Time: 7.30pm Venue: Acornfi eld Plantation Venue: Liverpool Empire LNR, Spinney Road, Kirkby The star of television’s Ghost Join the Ranger for a seasonal Towns, Most Haunted and The exploration of Kirkby’s Antiques Ghost Show live on countryside. stage. Tel: 443 3682 Tel: 0870 145 1163

28 www.knowsley.gov.uk the guide

28 – Winter Visitors 9 – Europe 17 – An Evening 25 – Nest Box Workshop Birdwatch Walk Time: 7pm Of Music Time: 10am-2pm Time: 10am-1pm Venue: Carling Academy, Time: 7.45pm Venue: Bowring Park, Venue: Acornfi eld Plantation Liverpool Venue: Huyton Suite Roby Road, Huyton LNR, Spinney Road, Kirkby Stockholm’s greatest export, An evening of music with the See February 3 for event details. Explore the local nature reserve the million selling rock band Operatic Society in Tel: 443 3682 and spot our feathered friends Europe, who were responsible aid of the Mayor of Knowsley’s Tel: 443 3682 for the rock classic ‘The Final Charity Appeal which this year 25 – Nest Box Workshop Countdown’ are back with their is raising funds for life-saving Time: 1-3pm 28 – Willow fantastic seventh album ‘Secret equipment for babies at Whiston Venue: Huyton Lane Wetland Weaving Workshop Society.’ Hospital. Tickets £4. Park, Huyton Lane, Huyton Time: 1-3pm Tel: 0870 771 2000 Tel: 443 3175 See February 3 for event details. Venue: Halewood Park, Okell Tel: 443 3682 Drive, Halewood 10 – Steven Seagal 18 – Nest Box Discover your artistic fl air and and Thunderbox Workshop 25 – Nest Box Workshop have a go at willow weaving Time: 1-3pm Time: 7.30pm Time: 10am-1pm under expert tuition Venue: Halewood Park, Venue: Philharmonic Hall Venue: Millbrook Park Tel: 488 6151 Okell Drive, Halewood Recognised worldwide as one Millennium Green, See February 3 for event details. of Hollywood’s leading action Old Hall Lane, Kirkby FEBRUARY Tel: 488 6151 heroes, Steven Seagal has See February 3 for event details. 1 – Whole Lotta Led Tel: 443 3682 Time: 7pm starred in and produced more 18 – Russell Brand Venue: Carling Academy, than 20 fi lms. The 7th degree Time: 7pm black belt Aikido master is also MARCH Liverpool Venue: Liverpool Empire 05 – Joseph and the One of the country’s top tribute an accomplished musician and Winner of Time Out’s Stand-Up songwriter and stops off at the Amazing Technicolor bands return on their sixth Comedian of the Year gong and Dreamcoat annual themed tour. This year Phi as part of a 30+ date UK tour. described as ‘the most exciting Time: 7pm the band will perform How The Tel: 709 3789 comedian of his generation’, Big Venue: Liverpool Empire West Was Won set. Brother’s big mouth brings his With sensational reviews, Tel: 0870 771 2000 11 – Nest Box award-winning wit to Liverpool. Bill Kenwright’s ‘Amazing’, Workshop Adults only. ‘Superb’, ‘Wonderful’ and 2 – Wetland Walk Time: 1-3pm Tel: 0870 145 1163 ‘Brilliant’ production of Tim Rice Time: 1-3pm Venue: Whitestone Millennium and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Venue: Huyton Lane Wetland Green, Driveway, Whiston 22 – The Feeling sparkling family musical Park, Huyton Lane, Huyton See February 3 for event details. Time: 7.30pm continues to enjoy huge success A walk around Huyton Wetland, Tel: 489 1239 Venue: Mountford Hall, throughout the country with on National Wetland Day to Liverpool University standing ovations at every commemorate the signing of the 15 – Bird Talk The fi ve-piece indie-popsters Convention of Wetlands already have a string of performance. Time: 6.30-8pm Tel: 0870 145 1163 Tel: 443 3682 Venue: Halewood Park, recognisable, radio-friendly hits under their belts. Harking back Okell Drive, Halewood 08 – Deftones 3 – Nest Box Local bird expert and RSPB to the heady days of Workshop and Supertramp, the Feeling Time: 7.30pm offi cer Chris Tynan will be giving Venue: Mountford Hall, Time: 1-3pm us an illustrated insight into the are a good-time band, whose Venue: Sawpit Park, foot-stomping, heart-wrenching Liverpool University lives of our feathered friends. Hall Lane, Huyton anthems will melt the coldest of One of the world’s leading Tel: 488 6151 Do your bit for our garden bird hearts. nu-metal/rap bands, Deftones population by providing purpose Tel: 256 5555 have an unquestionable passion 16 – Nest Box for music. Booming drums, built nest boxes. All in materials Workshop provided. Part of National Nest 24 – Nest Box screeching feedback, and gut- Time: 1-3pm Box Week. Workshop born screams here we come! Tel: 443 3682 Venue: Henley Park, Time: 1-3pm Tel: 256 5555 Delph Lane, Whiston Venue: Court Hey Park, 6 – Starlight Express See February 3 for event details. Roby Road, Huyton 12 – Acorn Antiques Time: 7pm Tel: 489 1239 See February 3 for event details. Acorn Antiques - a spoof Venue: Liverpool Empire Tel: 443 3682 of everything that was ever Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical 17 – Nest Box spoofable about TV Soaps - was is brought to you by the original Workshop 24 – Nest Box fi rst seen 21 years ago and has West End creative team Time: 1-3pm Workshop been a fi rm favourite with the and features state of the art Venue: Copthorne Adventure Time: 10am-2pm nation ever since. This musical technology, electrifying music Playground, Copthorne Walk, Venue: King George V Playing version follows Miss Babs’ and all-new dazzling sets and Kirkby Fields, Longview Lane, Huyton struggle to keep her antiques costumes. See February 3 for event details. See February 3 for event details. business open. Until March 17. Tel: 0870 145 1163 Tel: 443 3682 Tel: 443 3682 Tel: 0870 145 1163

www.knowsley.gov.uk 29 the guide

MEETINGS IN KNOWSLEY Planning Committee Planning Date: January 11 Committee Please contact Democratic Services for Time: 2pm Date: February 15 confi rmation of venues on 443 3502. Environmental and Housing Time: 2pm Strategy Committee Council Council Cabinet Date: January 29 Date: February 21 Date: December 13 Date: January 17 Time: 6pm Time: 7pm Time: 7pm Time: 2pm Corporate Performance Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Scrutiny Committee Cabinet Licensing Committee Planning Committee Date: January 30 Date: February 7 Date: December 14 Date: January 11 Time: 6pm Time: 2pm Time: 2pm Time: 2pm Economy and Employment Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Scrutiny Coordinating Licensing Committee Scrutiny Committee Cabinet Committee Date: December 14 Date: January 31 Date: March 7 Date: December 18 Time: 2pm Time: 6pm Time: 2pm Time: 4pm Standards Committee Licensing Committee Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Halewood Area Date: March 22 Date: February 1 Appeals Committee Partnership Board Time: 4pm Time: 2pm Date: March 13 Date: December 19 Cabinet Health and Social Care Time: 10am Time: 9.30am Date: March 28 Scrutiny Committee Planning Venue: Gallery Room, Time: 2pm Date: February 6 Committee Huyton Suite Venue: Huyton Council Chamber Time: 6pm Date: March 15 North Huyton Area Governance and Audit Education, Training and Time: 2pm Partnership Board Committee Culture Scrutiny Committee Scrutiny Coordinating Date: December 20 Date: January 23 Date: February 7 Committee Time: 9.30am Time: 4pm Time: 6pm Date: March 19 Venue: Gallery Room, Appeals Committee Community, Safety and Time: 4pm Huyton Suite Date: January 1 Social Inclusion Scrutiny Standards Council Time: 10am Committee Committee Date: December 13 Scrutiny Coordinating Date: February 8 Date: March 22 Time: 7pm Committee Time: 6pm Time: 4pm Venue: Huyton Council Date: December 18 Chamber Time: 4pm

For more information visit www.knowsley.gov.uk Useful numbers or email [email protected]

Benefi ts Education General Kirkby South Emergency (Housing and Council Tax) Enquiries 548 2725 443 4042 443 3232 Stockbridge Village and out of hours Births, Marriages General Enquiries 230 0407 Fire and Deaths 489 6000 Tower Hill Huyton Fire Station 01744 697712 443 5210 Highways 547 5183 Kirkby Fire Station 546 5151 Business Rates (including footways Prescot & Whiston Whiston Fire Station 426 6424 443 4089 and street lighting) 443 4692 Business Services 443 2400 NHS Direct Police (Advice, Funding, Homelessness 0845 4647 Mersey Police Switchboard 709 6010 Recruitment and Training) 290 7190 Pest Control 477 4000 Housing General 443 2455 Citizens Advice 0845 122 1300 Children’s Enquiries Planning Enquiries Information Service 443 5834 443 2380 Highways, footways 443 2800 443 5633 Housing Repairs Refuse Collection and street lighting Complaints and (Knowsley Housing 443 2400 Compliments Trust East) School Admissions (Mon to Fri 8pm-8am, Sat before 9.30am and after 1pm, all day Sun and Bank Hols) 443 4031 0800 731 2023 and Exclusions Consumer Advice/ (Knowsley Housing 443 3212 Social Services 07659 590081 Trading Standards Trust West) School Attendance and Homelessness 443 4711 0500 969694 Service (Mon to Fri 5pm-9am, all day Council Tax 443 4476 Job Vacancies 443 3279 Sat, Sun and Bank Hols) Council Tax and Benefi ts 443 5000 School Bus Passes Fraud Hotline Neighbourhood Wardens 443 5609 Housing Repairs 290 7375 /449 3958 0800 073 0532 Huyton South Traffi c Signal Faults Dangerous Buildings/ 443 3395 443 2349 (Mon to Fri 5pm-9am, all day Sat, Sun and Bank Hols) Structures/Trees Halewood Truancy Hotline 443 2380 443 2171 0800 073 6161

30 www.knowsley.gov.uk the guide shelf life BEDTIME stories are relaxing and enjoyable for all the family, and a great way to build your child’s imagination, listening and talking skills. Sure Start Family Literacy Co-ordinator Diane Cosgrove gives us her recommendations.

fi sh and a blue clock – until they New DVDs Twinkly Night arrive in Rainbow Land. The bold for kids by Helen Stephens and riotously colourful illustrations One make the story unforgettable and of the hugely enjoyable. Sure to be a hit! amazing ‘Baby Dazzlers’ board book • Walt Disney’s series Cinderella – a must • Mr Bean: for every animated baby to adventures hold, share and enjoy. Every page • Adventures The baby who sparkles. This book has holographic of Greyfriars foil that twinkles like the stars and wouldn’t go to bed Bobby by Helen Cooper • Balamory: a rhyming text, which refl ects the Determined to stay up all night, a Seeking Santa events of a baby’s life. A gorgeous baby takes off in a car to search for • Alice in bedtime book! like-minded friends. But the tiger is Wonderland too tired, the soldier too sleepy and • Disney’s Smiley Shark even the moon falls asleep. This Christmas by Ruth Galloway magically illustrated award-winning favourites Smiley Shark is friendly and funny picture book is a joy to read with No bed without Ted • Babar: Uncle but unfortunately when he smiles young children. by Nicola Smee Arthur and the (which he does often) his teeth are Simple rhyming text and bright pirates so huge that he frightens everyone A cuddle for Claude colourful endearing images of a • Chronicles of and everything away. All Smiley Narnia (BBC) by David Wojtowycz little girl with her pets and toys really wants to do is to make friends Claude has just make this family story of a missing New books and have some fun with the other one thing on his teddy into an appealing bedtime for kids sea creatures. However, none of mind – getting tale. Children try to fi nd Ted by • Magic in them stay around long enough to a well-deserved lifting fl aps throughout the story. the Weaving fi nd out what a good friend he can hug from his The Illustrations are imaginative (Circle of Magic) be - until the fi sherman catches mum. However, and young children will be Tamora Pierce them all in his net and guess who every time he captivated from beginning to end. • My Sister’s saves them all? Smiley Shark. approaches her Be prepared! They are sure to want Nightmare Fabulous illustrations with bold for a cuddle she is too busy and to hear this story again and again. Gretel Killeen and lively colours and absolutely sends him away. Eventually Claude • When The Guns perfect to share with young concludes she doesn’t love him. Fall Silent - children. Don’t miss it! A colourful and appealing book James Riordan • Mary, Kate & with lots of clues enabling the more Ashley - Sweet observant to fi gure out what mum 16: Starring is up to. You And Me Mary Kate & Maisy’s Rainbow Dream Ashley Olsen by Lucy Cousins • Iron Woman This is a large and lively picture Ted Hughes book (easily spread across two • Half Moon laps). Maisy Mouse falls asleep and Ranch: Third dreams she is on a journey with her Time Lucky friends. On each page the young Jenny Oldfi eld reader is introduced to different • Measle and the brightly coloured animals and Dragodon Ian Ogilvy objects - a red ladybird, an orange

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