best of liverpool - july 2011

Add some samba style toyour home

On her toyboy husandand Merseysidetheatre roles

Dazzling whites and brightsno summer wardrobe shouldbe without

O F L I V E R P O O LJULY ISSUE 2011

SupplementFASHION PLACES FACES FOOD BEAUTY HOMES TRAVEL

Add some samba style toyour home

TINAMALONEOn her toyboy husbandand Merseysidetheatre roles

WHITE WASHDazzling whites and brightsno summer wardrobe shouldbe without

CARNIVALCOLOURS

NAUTICAL BUT NICEAll aboard for men’s fashion shoot

SOUTHPORT FLOWER SHOW//TRAVEL REVIEW//WHAT’S ON//SALONSPOTLIGHT//SUZANNE COLLINS’ MARATHON DIARY//TASTE TESTS//

TICKETS TOBRAZILICA AFTER-PARTY

WIN

NEEDLES A

ND PINS

0151 227 4545www.maxwellhodge.co.uk

SUPPORTAND ADVICE FOR YOUR MEDICALACCIDENT CLAIM

02 BEST OF LIVERPOOL

03BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11Contents

WELCOME to the July edition of Best of Liverpool! We’ve gota cracking mag for you this month – from celebrityinterviews to fabulous fashion, foodie news and reviews,festivals, essential events and much, much more.

Never one to miss out on the chance to hobnob withLiverpool’s great and good, on pages 4 and 5 we bring younews, gossip and photos from all the events and launches inthe city this month, whilst, on page 16, I catch up with a trueLiverpool legend – Tina Malone.

Best known for playing a Scouse battle-axe on Shameless,the talented Toxteth actress reveals all about her upcomingMerseyside theatre roles, her gastric band and how she’sfinding married life.

On page 17 we meet Simone Reeves, a lead dancer with theLiverpool Carnival Company who’ll play a key role in thismonth’s Brazilica Festival. The UK’s largest samba carnivalevent, Brazilica looks set to transform the city on July 15 to 17with a Rio-style street party, samba dancing and a dazzlingparade of colourful costumes and extravagant floats.

Inspired by this month’s Brazilica and Brouhaha festivals,on page 25 we find carnival-coloured homewares to brighten

up your décor and, on page 22, we sample some SouthAmerican cuisine at Viva Brazil. Of course, Latin flavoursaren’t to everyone’s tastes, so, on page 24, we review 60 HopeStreet’s Best of British menu.

As well as sampling fine food, this month we also managedto escape from Best of Liverpool Towers for a men’s fashionshoot on board Zebu, one of the ships taking part in thismonth’s Pirate Festival at the Albert Dock. Inspired by theevent and our impressive ship location, we fell hook, line andsinker for the nautical trend and on pages 8 and 9 we havesome shipshape looks for men this summer.

There’s plenty happening in the city in July and, on page14, we bring you our shortlist of essential events for day andnight, whilst on page 18 we find cultural places to visit toensure your little ones’ minds don’t turn to mush during theschool holidays.

If that wasn’t enough, we discover what Southport andFormby have to offer on page 28 and take a luxurious trip tothe Lake District on page 30.

Enjoy!

06

Katie McLoughlin

Editor’s letter

NEWS04-05 TALK OF TOWNCity gossip

FASHION06-07 SHOPPING FOR HERPure brilliant whites and acid brights08-09 SHOPPING FOR HIMLook shipshape this summer

HEALTH & BEAUTY10 SALON SPOTLIGHTPeachy perfect make-up12 FITNESSBoot camps to get your body beach-readySuzanne’s marathon diary

ENTERTAINMENT13 BRAZILICA & BROUHAHAYour guide to vibrant city festivals14 WHAT’S ONUnmissable July events, festivals andperformances16-17 HOMEGROWN TALENTTina Malone talks weddings, weight loss and upcoming theatre rolesSimone Reeves sambas her way to successOnes to watch

CHILDREN18 CULTURED KIDSDays out to inspire young minds20 CHILDREN’S TOYSEverything you need to keep kids happy on your holidays

FOOD & DRINK22 TASTE TESTViva Brazil reviewLiverpool Food & Drink Festival newsFlaming good BBQ recipeDeli delights and summer pud recipe24 FOODIE NEWS AND REVIEWS We put 60 Hope Street to the test

HOMES & GARDENS25 INTERIORSAdd some carnival colour to your décor26 GARDENSSouthport Flower ShowGardening accessories

OUT & ABOUT28 HEADING OVER TOSouthport & FormbyHidden gems30 TRAVELLuxury Lake District retreat

LIVERPOOL ECHO EDITOR Alastair Machray

MAGAZINE EDITORKatie McLoughlin

SALES MANAGER Frank Notton

WRITERSSarah Hooley, Emma Thompson, Paul Baker, Sue Kelbrick and RichardLackey

PHOTOGRAPHYTrinity Mirror photographers

FRONT COVER CREDITSLocation: Zebu with thanks toMersey Heritage Trust at AlbertDock Photographer: Karl Axon(Impact Models)Model: Carl Finley (Impact Models)Hair & make up artist: Ruth Marcellausing Dermalogica (Impact Models)Stylist: Louise Dalrymple (ImpactModels) Clothes: Weaver’s Door atCavern Walks

DESIGNERZoe Bevan

COMMERCIAL FEATURESEDITORSally Jones

COPYRIGHTBest of Liverpool is publishedmonthly by Trinity Mirror NorthWest and North Wales/LiverpoolEcho. No part of this publicationmay be reproduced withoutpermission of the publisher.

GET IN TOUCH

STORIES 0151 330 4964FAX0151 330 [email protected]

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O F L I V E R P O O L

BEST

JULY 2011


Talk of town

SOCIAL

SURF’S UPBUDDING surfers can catch a wave in the heart ofLiverpool this summer as the City Central BusinessImprovement District (BID) will be transformingWilliamson Square into a Surfer’s Paradise! DuringJuly, August and September, Williamson Squarewill be home to a CityWave surfing simulator sothat children and adults can experience the thrillof surfing and wakeboarding, whilst stayingperfectly dry!

LA CUBANITA’S NEW MENUINSPIRED by the imminentarrival of the Brazilica festival,we’ve come over all Latin thismonth and can’t get enough ofthe mouth-watering new menuat Campbell Square restaurantLa Cubanita.Featuring a whole host of ourfavourite Cuban flavours, themenu includes dishes like mojochicken with sweetcorn salsaand plaintain fritter; coconutcod; Havana eggs and mojito granita – guaranteed to makeyour tastebuds samba!Visit La Cubanita, 2 Campbell Square, Liverpool, L1 5AX orcall 0151 709 5335 for reservations.

LUSTROUS LOCKSBEST of Liverpool haslong been a fan of Ojonhaircare products andwe’re loving the cultbrand’s latest productrange, which hit counterson June 9.Available in John Lewis’Liverpool ONE store, therange – which includesDamage Reverse, DryRecovery, VolumeAdvance, Color Sustainand Full Detox products –is packed with naturally-derived ingredients tomake your barnetbeautiful.

BRICK UP THE MERSEY TUNNELSIF you’ve not yet seen thelatest production of Brick UpThe Mersey Tunnels byMerseyside writers Dave Kirbyand Nicky Allt, get yourselfdown to the Royal Courtpronto!Starring Roy Brandon, EithneBrowne, Suzanne Collins andAndrew Schofield, the smash-hit Scouse comedy is on at theRoe Street theatre until July30. A must-see, the cultLiverpool play promises to deliver plenty of laughs as it tellsthe tale of three Liverpudlians who are fed up of beinglooked down on by the self-proclaimed upper classes fromWirral. For tickets visit www.royalcourtliverpool.com or call theticket hotline on 0870 787 1866.

CHILL OUT SPASCOOPS

TOP AWARD

EXCLUSIVEKnowsley dayretreat Chill Out Spahas fought off stiffcompetition fromover 500 UK spas tobe crowned Spa ofthe Year by Frenchprofessional beautyand skincarespecialist, ThalgoUK. The prestigiousindustry awardsevening was held in

the MetropolitanHotel in Mayfair,London, and theaward waspresented byEngland cricket starFreddie Flintoff andhis wife, Rachel. ChillOut Spa managingdirector SharonCarroll says: “Wehad no idea we hadeven beennominated for thisaward, so to walkaway with the titleof Spa of the Yearwas amazing!”

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SUNSET SWING

NEW Orlean’s Dixieland landed atthe Albert Dock on Thursday, June30, with the launch of Revolution’snew weekly Jazz night, SunsetSwing.Sunset Swing will take place everyThursday evening throughout thesummer months and, during thelaunch event, guests enjoyed thesuperb sounds of Schwing, one ofthe finest live swing bands of theirkind in Europe. For moreinformation call 0151 9092777 oremail [email protected]

A PRESCOT mother-of-three has been taking realpride in teaching heryoungsters about keepingsafe on the ‘mane’ roadrecently. Scooter, Mojo andSky, 13-week-old cubs,have been released intothe lion enclosure atKnowsley Safari Park forthe first time, and mumMasai has been busy

giving them some top tipson life in the big wideworld.One of the key skills to beacquired is the big catequivalent of the GreenCross Code, which is howto safely negotiate thehundreds of visitors’ carsthat pass through the parkeach day.

BRAZILICA LAUNCH

THE Brazilica Festival isset to bring some carnivalatmosphere to the streetsof Liverpool this monthand, ahead of the July 15-17 festival, a glittering VIPlaunch was held at BemBrasil on Thursday, June16. The programme ofevents for Brazilica –which is the UK’s largestsamba carnival event –

was announced during the launch event andexcitment is now building as the festival drawsnear. Roger and Maeve Morris, festival producers atLiverpool Carnival Company, say: “Thank you toeveryone who came along and enjoyed a taste ofwhat Brazilica will be when it takes over the citynext month. The festival is going to be immenseand we hope that the people of Liverpool will comealong and join in – it’s going to be sambatastic!”

STARS from hit reality show The OnlyWay Is Essex made a splash when theyvisited Liverpool recently as they took inthe sights at the Albert Dock from thewater. Visiting the city on June 14, Mark Wright,James Argent, Jessica Wright, LucyMecklemburgh, Maria Fowler and LydiaBright enjoyed an afternoon on board theYellow Duckmarine. After their boat madea splashdown in Salthouse Dock, theEssex stars treated themselves to somepost-tour cocktails in PanAm Bar andRestaurant, before enjoying a night outwith some of the Hollyoaks’ cast.

BIRTHDAY BASHCUSTOMERS and local residents cameout in force on Sunday, June 12, tohelp celebrate Delifonseca’s fifthbirthday. To mark the occasion, thedeli created its very own pop-upgarden in the middle of Stanley Street,complete with turf, BBQ, deckchairsand live entertainment! A hugely-popular baking competition was alsoheld to find the 2011 Delifonsecahonorary cake-maker. Proprietor Candice Fonseca says:

“We’ve had a great five years andwanted to celebrate by putting on aseries of events for the localcommunity. The event was all aboutbringing local residents together andwe plan to reinforce that message byalso introducing a Residents’ Club onthe back of the birthday events.”

TOWIE STARS MAKE ASPLASH AT ALBERT DOCK

COULD DO WITH AZEBRA CROSSINGHERE...

butterflies...

BEATLES NAMESAKES COULD BEIN FOR A HARD DAYS NIGHT...

LIVERPOOL’S four-star Hard Days Night Hotel iscelebrating World Beatles Day on July 10 bygiving away free accommodation to members ofthe public with the same names as the Beatles.George Harrisons, Paul McCartneys, JohnLennons and Ringo Starrs will be given thechance to stay in one of the hotel’s 110 luxurybedrooms in honour of the big day, whichcelebrates the Fab Four’s musical successworldwide.General manager Mike Dewey says: “We’relooking forward to seeing how many of theBeatles' namesakes come forward and stay withus. Although we’re aware of quite a few PaulMcCartneys and George Harrisons, we doubtthere will be many Ringo Starrs!”To claim their free night's stay, Beatlesnamesakes must register their details [email protected], along withproof of ID. Upon receipt of the requestedinformation, a voucher will be sent to them foruse between July 9 and September 30, 2011.Visit www.harddaysnighthotel.com for moreinformation about the Beatles giveaway.

Katie McLoughlin takes a look at what’s beenhappening in the city...

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Photo: Gareth Jones

Photo: Martin Birchall

05BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11

MERSEYSIDE has a new beauty queen after a panelof celebrity judges crowned Sarah Fairley MissLiverpool 2011. The pageant at the Olympia saw 37stunners from the region battle it out to be namedthe best-looking Liver Bird in the city. Judges and sponsors at the event included AmandaHarrington, Danielle Lloyd, Jennifer Ellison, KateHenshaw and Rossi from Radio City amongst others.Over 300 spectators watched the girls go head-to-head and brunette Sarah scooped the prestigioustitle of Miss Liverpool.Sarah, who’ll now be entered into the Miss Englandcompetition later in the year, won prizes including amodelling contract, teeth whitening treatment and aparty at city nightclub, Kingdom.

MORE than 200 guests enjoyed afundraising first birthday party at Matoupan Asian restaurant recently.Celebrations at the Pier Head venuefeatured entertainment from singer Zaraand clown Simon, a delicious buffet andcompering by Radio City presenter RickVaughn. The event marked the end of asuccessful first year for the restaurantand helped to raise more than £2,000

for Radio City’s charity Cash for Kids.Matou co-owner Billy Riley says: “Iwould like to thank everyone who hassupported us in our first year – it’s beenan amazing time for all of us in Matou.I’d also like to thank everyone involved inour birthday celebrations, for helping usto raise money for a wonderful localcharity.”

A NEW craze has blown intoLiverpool as the city’s firstdedicated electronic shishabar opened last month.Situated in the basementof The Noble House onBrunswick Street, TheHalooka Lounge invitedLiverpool’s cosmopolitanparty-goers to experiencethe delights of the halooka,a healthier redefinition ofthe shisha pipe, at its glam

launch on June 2. The traditional shisha isused for smoking flavouredtobaccos and works bycooling and filtering smokethrough a water pipe. Incomparison, the halookauses an electronicatomisation processmechanism which producesa water-based vapour,instead of smoke, making itlegal to consume indoors.

A HUGE 15ft statue of Queenlegend Freddie Mercury wasinstalled in the centre of ParadiseStreet last month to celebrate thehit Queen and Ben Elton musicalWe Will Rock You, arriving at theLiverpool Empire in September. The statue, which took a crane anda strong workforce to install onJune 2, was in the centre ofParadise Street until the end of

June. General manager at theEmpire, Andrew Rawlinson says:“We can’t wait for We Will Rock Youto arrive at the Empire – the showhas audiences rocking wherever itgoes and I’m sure Liverpool will beno exception. “Our city is often referred to as theWorld Capital of Pop so I think thebustling streets of Liverpool ONEmade a very fitting spot for Freddieand the We Will Rock You cast andcrew will be right at home at theEmpire.”

SALONEXPANDS

SINCE it opened itsdoors three yearsago, The Beautyand HolisticLounge has been ahit with Liverpool’swell-groomedladies. Now, tomeet increasingcustomer demand,the salon has expanded and added athird floor to its Fenwick Streetpremises.The move has allowed owners Karen

and Lisa Graham to introduce a wholehost of new treatments and facilities tothe city-centre salon, including adedicated manicure and pedicure areacomplete with fish spa; a doubletreatment room; themed waxing roomswhere clients can enjoy chocolate orcoconut waxes; sunbeds and an i.Fitroom with three state-of-the-art i.Fittoning machines. To celebrate the expansion, the salonheld a launch event from June 28 untilJuly 1, with customers getting thechance to try out the new facilities andtreatments. Visit www.beautyandholisticlounge.co.ukor call 0151 227 4727 for more details.

MATOU BIRTHDAY PARTY RAISES £2,000

GAME, SET AND MATCH

IT was an all-star line-up at the tenth LiverpoolInternational Tennis Tournament last month atCalderstones Park.Tennis greats Martina Navratilova and MartinaHingis graced the Centre Court more than onceover the four-day event, and with a staggering 23Grand Slam singles titles between them, it wasalways going to be a spectacular prospect.The event, again brilliantly organised by NorthernVision and backed by Liverpool City Council, alsofeatured British greats Virginia Wade, formerBritish number one Greg Rusedski and Ormskirk’svery own Barry Cowan. Tennis fans are alreadygetting excited for next year’s event!

SKINCARELAUNCH

ON Friday, June 17,Sk:n Clinic on BoldStreet hosted aproduct launch for anexciting new range ofits own-brand skincareproducts.Designed to work inharmony with Sk:n’sin-clinic treatments,the range of 22products is packedwith dermatologist-backed, clinically-proven activeingredients likeglycolic acid, VitaminA, peptides, anti-inflamatory magnoliabark and anti-oxidantalpine rose to namejust a few. The range will beavailable in Sk:n’sclinics and in selectedBoots stores, includingthe Clayton Squareshop, from July 4.

Guests at the launchhad the chance to talkto Sk:n experts aboutthe cutting-edgeproduct formulationsand enjoyed in-depthskin assessments withone of Sk:n’s highlytrained practitioners.As well as launchingits innovative skincarerange, Sk:n hasrecently announced anew partnership withSpire CosmeticSurgery and plans tohold open evenings onJuly 28 and August 16offering free miniconsultations forcosmetic surgery.

SHISHA CHIC BLOWS INTO LIVERPOOL

MISS LIVERPOOL CROWNED

LIVERPOOL ONE GAINS AROCKIN’ NEW RESIDENT!

BIG BRAZILIANNIGHT OUT FORYOU AND THREEFRIENDS

THIS month Best ofLiverpool has an exclusive

prize for one lucky winner andthree friends!

We’re all looking forward to Liverpool’s massivethree-day samba carnival, Brazilica, on July 15-17,bringing Latin beats and extravagant costumes.The winner and three lucky friends will get freeentry to the VIP Brazilica after party at Nation,Wolstenholme Square on Saturday, July 16. Rub shoulders with the stars of the carnival and

carry on the fiesta until the early hours whereperformers and musicians from Brazilica willentertain with a fantastic mix of Braziliansingers, dancers and bands, who will perform aplethora of traditional and new Brazilian tunes,sure to get you dancing!

To be in with a chance of winning free entry tothe Brazilica after party for you and threefriends, simply answer the following question:

Q: Which of these is a city in Brazil – SaoPaulo, Argentina or Madrid?

Email your answer, name and daytime phonenumber to: [email protected]. Closingdate: July 12. Maximum one entry per person.

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Photo: Dave Ellison


Shopping for her

STEAL HER STYLE

EMMA Watson has gone from scary-hairedHermione to a darling of the fashion pack,modelling campaigns for Burberry andgracing the cover of fashion bible Vogue.The 21-year-old’s enviable wardrobe isnothing short of magical and her sense ofstyle has cast a spell on fashionistas theworld over. So, with the final Harry Potterfilm due to be released later this month,Katie McLoughlin shows you how to stealEmma Watson's style...

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Wire

Heiress of Pearlearrings, £14, fromGlitzysecrets.com

Nude beaded shiftdress, £150, fromMiss Selfridge

Silver dolly shoe,£29.50, from Marks &Spencer

BEYONDthe pale

White knot frontvest, £10, fromTopshop

Planet lime pleatedclutch handbag, £59,from John Lewis

Luxe open-back wideleg jumpsuit, £160,from Warehouse

White sleevelessscallop shirt, £24,from Topshop

Jovonna nude pleatedmaxi skirt, £65, fromBoudoir Boutique inCavern Walks

Izzah shoulder bag byZandra Rhodes, £45,from Boudoir Boutiquein Cavern Walks

Lola fuschia wedge sandalsby Terry De Havilland,£195, from BoudoirBoutique in Cavern Walks

Brighten up your summer wardrobe with dazzling whites, understatednudes and acid-brights for a splash of colour, says Katie McLoughlin…

JULY 11

07BEST OF LIVERPOOL

SUMMERSTOCK

ARRIVINGDAILY

191 Rose Lane, Liverpool L18 5EA Telephone: 0151 724 5444

• Race Days • Prom Nights •Wedding Days • Special occasions

JJOOJOJOBoutiqueExclusive designs carefully chosen from around the globe

• LOSANGELES • NEWYORK • PARIS

Yellow suede wedges,£65, from White Stuff

Carvela Kob sandalsin orange, £85, fromJohn Lewis

Keagan bright bluecanvas mix heels, £48,from Miss Selfridge

Ava dress by Darling,£45, from BoudoirBoutique in Cavern Walks

Nude sleeveless tuckdetail dress, £46,from Topshop

NW3 trapeze top, £69; NW3howden bag, £179; NW3crochet socks, £5; NW3wyldes hiking woodensandals, £110; and NW3 flagtie skirt, £89, all from Hobbs

Pair acid brights withwhites for an on-trendsummer style, clothingfrom Republic

Shopping for him

WITH the Albert Dock’s Pirate Weekendhappening this month, our fashion pages havecome over all sea-faring and sailor-like.The nautical look has been gracing catwalks,

top boutiques and the high street this summerand it’s a look that you have to get on-board

with. So make sure your fashion sense isshipshape by checking out these hot threadsfrom our nautical shoot.

Deck yourself out with Gallic striped shirts, ajaunty hat and fitted jeans – just right for yourown pirate booty!


MALES SET SAIL

Ahoy-there, maties! Climb aboard ship and enjoy Best of Liverpool’ssensational nautical shoot...

Photographer: Karl Axon – Impact Models; Models: Carl Finley – Impact ModelsHair & Make-up Artist: Ruth Marcella using Dermalogica – Impact Models

Stylist: Louise Dalrymple – Impact Modelswww.impactmodelsagency.co.uk

LOOK ONENorse Projects Elka rain coat, £139;

Suit Denmark Bud T-shirt, £25;Edwin Japan Ed55 jeans, £140;

Folk Alaric shoes in tan suede, £125– all from Weaver's Door in

Cavern Walks

JULY 11

09BEST OF LIVERPOOL

LOOK TWO

Chambray Hyde jacket by Universal Works, £140;Folk knitwear undergarm £110; Carhartt chino

pants, £69.99; Grenson William brogues, £155 –all from Weaver's Door in Cavern Walks; satchel

from Bullet, Hardman Street.

LOOK THREEYMC X Gloverall fisherman's

rain jacket, £235; NorseProjects Anton Selvedge

long-sleeved shirt, £120; SuitDenmark toft shorts, £45;Sandqvist Roald backpack,£125 – all from Weaver's

Door in Cavern Walks; T-shirtis from Nauticalia on theAlbert Dock; shoes from

John Lewis, Liverpool ONE


JULY 11

Sue Kelbrick goes back to school with afabulous lesson in make-up from the experts

Health & beauty

Where is it?Peaches and Cream is on Dale Street in theheart of Liverpool city centre.

What does it do?A beauty and make-up salon, Peaches andCream offers a range of makeovers for alloccasions and ages.

Contact:Peaches and Cream, 8(b) Dale Street,Liverpool, L2 4TQ, telephone 0151 227 1669,website: www.fabulousmakeup.co.uk, email: [email protected]

EVERYONE knows the dangers ofskin exposure to sunlight so makesure that you protect your skin byswitching to a foundation which has abuilt-in SPF. Here’s our pick of six ofthe best...

SIX OF THE BEST

BEAUTY SCHOOLDROPOUT

Clinique moisture surge foundation with

SPF 15, £21

Marks and Spencernatural finish longlasting foundation withSPF 20, £7.50

Estee Lauder Resilience lift

extreme liftingfoundation with SPF 15, £28.50

The Body Shopmoisture foundation with SPF 15, £15

Bobbi Brown skinfoundation with SPF

15, £29

Bobbi Brown tintedmoisturiser with SPF 15,£27

LIKE many ladies out there, I standaccused of being in a make-up rut. It’sofficial – I have entered a cosmetic one-waystreet. But, just when I thought there wasno way out, the girls from Peaches andCream rescued me.

Having just launched Liverpool’s firstofficial make-up club, Peaches and Creamis on a mission to educate the ladies ofLiverpool in the art of applying make-up.And having worn the same make-up forlonger than I care to remember, I thoughtthat it was about time I brushed up on mymake-up skills.

And so, it was with some trepidation thatI enrolled in the ‘university’ of Peachesand Cream, a fortnightly make-up lessonheld at the stylish salon on Dale Street inLiverpool city centre. I needn’t haveworried though. I was given a very warmwelcome by Kate and Nicola, whoimmediately made me feel relaxed andvery well looked after.

The interior of Peaches and Cream’s citycentre salon is something else, with thefunky décor really helping to create a funand friendly atmosphere. I met my fellow‘students’ and we sat down ready for ourfirst ‘lesson’ from our expert teachers, Kateand Nicola.

The two girls met at college and it wastheir shared passion for old schooltheatrical make-up that inspired them toset up Peaches and Cream. Six years onand business is booming for the girls, whoencapsulate Liverpool ladies’ love of thedramatic to a tee.

And their passion for make-up iscertainly infectious, as myself and myfellow recruits all threw ourselveswholeheartedly into our first session.

The aim of this make-up lesson is tocreate a signature look of brown smokeyeyes with soft peachy cheeks and glossylips.

First of all, we are shown how theexperts do it, with Nicola giving clear step-by-step instructions as she goes along.

Next, we have to try and re-create thelook for ourselves, with both Kate andNicola going round the room giving helpand guidance. I managed to keep up withthe other girls pretty well despite my lackof experience, but when it came toapplying the false eyelashes I had to getsome help from Kate!

I was really pleased with the result and itwas refreshing to try a different look for achange. We were all given a helpful step-by-step guide to take home with us,

which proved indispensable when I tried tore-create the look again at home.

Even though I must admit to slippingback into my bad make-up ways (old habitsdie hard), it’s really nice to know that anytime I feel like giving myself a bit of amake-over, the girls at Peaches and Creamare on-hand.

PHONE BOOKING 0844871 3017*

LIVERPOOLEMPIRE.ORG.UK*

GROUPS 10+ 0844871 3037(10AM-6PM, MON-FRI)*24HRS, BOOKING FEES APPLY

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BILL KENWRIGHT PRESENTS

THESE days there’s a boot camp for everything! Even the X Factor contestants are put through their paces

with a military style grilling from the judges.But it’s fitness boot camps that are all the rage right now

in Liverpool, with parks across the city increasinglybecoming the stages for these intensive courses in totalfitness. The name itself comes from basic training for thearmed forces, but don’t worry, in Liverpool’s fitness bootcamps you won’t be screamed at like an extra in FullMetal Jacket.What you can expect is for a professional fitness coach to

take you and a group of others through a reasonablyintensive programme of exercise and training to help youachieve your goals – such as weight loss or improvinggeneral fitness.Paul Hughes recently set up one such boot camp at

Croxteth Country Park. Paul decided to leave his office joband become a personal trainer after successfully beatingskin cancer. “Everybody was telling me how taking redundancy in the

current credit crunch was crazy!” says Paul. “Sincebecoming a personal trainer and working in the fitnessindustry, I haven’t looked back.”To this end, Paul set up Park-Fit, his take on the fitness

boot camp. He’s aiming it at both men and women whowant to get fit, but don’t know where to start, as well asthose who want to improve their fitness quickly.One of the reasons why boot camps have become so

popular is that people like to get motivation from othersgetting fit alongside them. Paul believes that the sort ofpeople who enjoy Park-Fit are those who prefer to work aspart of a team rather than having one-to-one training.Another recent boot camp venture in the city is Fitness

Junkies, started in 2009 by business partners ChrisKiernan and John McAndrew. Both experienced gym instructors, Chris and John

decided to start running non-military fitness boot campsin Stanley Park. Fitness Junkies trains around 200 peopleeach week, with clients ranging from their early 20sthrough to 50-somethings.“We run the boot camps for men, women and soon forchildren, aimed at helping people achieve their goals oflosing weight, gaining weight, general conditioning, or forthe social side and, in some cases, to overcome some oftheir fears,” says Chris. Members are weighed and measured by clothes size on a

monthly basis to see how much weight they’re sheddingand Chris gives everyone personal updates by email ortext.There are fitness boot camps in parks throughout

Merseyside. Park-Fit sessions take place at CroxtethCountry Park, while Fitness Junkies use Sefton Park.

Check out www.paulhughesfitness.co.uk orwww.fitnessjunkies.org.uk for more details.

SUZANNE COLLINS’MARATHON JOURNEY...


IT’S been a funny month since my last diary update,with some big achievements tinged with sadness.My Nan passed away this month – she was 93 and my

inspiration – we were very close and she was one of mybiggest supporters. I loved visiting her and telling herwhat I was up to.

Earlier in the year, when I was toying with running themarathon, she told me that I should grasp everyopportunity and you know what? She was right.Training for the marathon is my chance not only to get

fit and achieve personal goals but also to help peopleby raising money for my charity, Diabetes UK.As part of my marathon training, I completed the

Tunnel 10k – the race is one of the first fitnessassessments for all coached runners in October’sMarathon.

I was a little apprehensive as it’s the furthest I’ve runsince the London Marathon in 2002. I also wasn’tlooking forward to taking on the incline as you comeout of the Wallasey Tunnel on the Wirral side of theMersey but, in the end, it wasn’t too bad.Richard, the marathon training co-ordinator ran

alongside me, as well as one of my best friends, AmyCorris, who has also enrolled for the marathon.I got into my stride pretty quickly and, as I crossed the

finish on New Brighton Promenade, I felt like I couldhave gone on and on – I was so happy!You know, I’m really benefitting from having that

personal input and don’t think I could attempt themarathon without Richard’s training programme.My strength and stamina have improved but also my

mental attitude has too – I’m believing more in myability, pushing myself out of my comfort zone, and I’mplanning to go along to the monthly marathonworkshops he’s running at LJMU – one of the guestspeakers is Prof Greg Whyte who trained Cheryl Coleand Gary Barlow when they climbed Kilimanjaro forComic Relief. Looks like I’m in good company.The other big challenge I’ve faced is trying to find time

to run, with a crazy work schedule. I’m currently onstage at The Royal Court in Brick Up The MerseyTunnels and the 12-hour rehearsal days have madetraining tricky.Late nights and early mornings have really taken their

toll on Richard’s programme, but now the play hasopened it frees me up in the daytime to run beforeheading to the theatre in the afternoon.My dressing room is at the very top of the theatre so

I’m even making the most of running up and down allthose stairs!As you can see, all in all, it’s been quite a month – let’s

see what August has in store!

Suzanne x

Suzanne Collins is an ambassador for theRunLiverpool Marathon, which takes place in the cityon October 9, and will be running for her chosencharity, Diabetes UK, in memory of her mother. For more information on the available marathontraining programmes and workshops please visitwww.runliverpoolmarathon.co.uk

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“WE all dream of a team of Carraghers!” So goes the Kop anthem, but Liverpooldefender Jamie Carragher’s own charity, the 23 Foundation, is looking to put togethera team of its own – to run the Liverpool Marathon.The charity aims to offers the youth of Merseyside with the chance to make a

difference in society by giving them an outlet through football and sport. You’d berunning through local communities and the money raised will be directly helping thosecommunities too.

Sound good? If you would like to take one of the 23 Foundation’s guaranteed placesfor the marathon on October 9, 2011, just email the team: [email protected] or give them a call on 0151 232 2417.You’ll get immediate entry into the event and, in return, you’ll be asked to

fundraise a minimum amount of £500. The team have plenty of fundraising ideas tohelp you achieve this, or go to the following link to find out more or apply online:www.runliverpoolmarathon.co.uk/charities/23-foundation/

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FALL-IN FOR FITNESSPaul Baker hits the park and takes a closer look atLiverpool’s latest exercise craze – fitness boot camps...

MARATHON SUPPORTPhoto: Andy Teebay

Fitness Junkies

13BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11

BROUHAHA

COMBINING musicians, circus performers, stilt walkersand dancers, the Brouhaha festival is a spectacularcultural celebration across the city.This carnival of diversity has become hugely popular,and 2011 sees the opening ceremony start thecelebrations on July 17 for the Brouhaha InternationalStreet Festival.

Sunday evening in the Novas Contemporary UrbanCentre will be packed with local and internationaltalent, creating a fabulous, diverse atmosphere from5pm to 9pm.On Tuesday, July 19, Brouhaha performers will help inthe opening of the city’s new Museum of Liverpool atthe Pier Head, where there’ll be performances fromnoon until 4pm, as part of a cultural parade to mark theopening of this world-class attraction.

Following the performances on the Pier Head, therewill be a Diversity in Dance show at Unity Theatre.Starting at 7.30pm, the Brouhaha Diversity in Dance

show features an eclectic selection of dance groups,including Tabanka Crew, who perform a mixture ofAfrican, Caribbean and African-American dances;contemporary ballet and urban dancers, Got Skills fromRotterdam, plus Ballet Entredanzas from Murcia inSpain.On Thursday, July 21, the city centre is set to comealive as Brouhaha International artists bring funkystreet theatre, exciting dance and great beats withmusic and drummers to Clayton Square, Queen Square,Williamson Square, Metquarter and Liverpool ONE’sChavasse Park.Brouhaha’s International Carnival brings together astunning array of performers on Saturday, July 23,from noon to 2pm, beginning in Mulberry Street andfinishing in Princes Park. Combined arts come to lifewith music, dance and lively coloured costumes,focusing on the cultural diversity of Liverpool. The Liverpool International Mela will also be in PrincesPark on Saturday, July 23. Featuring electrifyingperformances that celebrate Liverpool’s multiculturalcommunities, Liverpool International Mela is in thePark from noon until 7pm.Log on to www.brouhaha.uk.com for more information.

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Emma Thompson joins in the festival fun of Brazilica.

GET ready to feel those samba beats and let your bodymove to the music as Brazilica is set to transform thecity into a Rio-style carnival on July 15-17.

A samba-tastic fiesta of Latin dance, carnivalatmosphere and Brazilian beats, the massive three-dayfestival has something for everyone – from colossal floatsto sparkling dancers in extravagant costumes ablazewith colour, events, workshops and, of course, plenty ofirresistible beats.

Organised by Liverpool Carnival Company and OrbEvents, Brazilica began from the hugely successfulcarnival parade in 2008, and last year attracted over30,000 spectators.

The festival kicks off on Friday, July 15, when citycentre shops and bars will play host to the Samba in theCity event – a colourful taster of the carnival, to getLiverpool in the mood to party.

With the city in the Latin spirit, a glamorous maskedball will mark the opening of what promises to be theUK’s biggest Brazilian Samba Festival of 2011.

Traditional samba drumming starts off the evening atRopewalks Square then the celebrations move to Leaf onBold Street, which will be transformed from 8pm into anenergetic Brazilica Carnival Ball. Everyone is invited tojoin the party and sample the fantastic Brazilianentertainment on offer.

Entry is just £3 and there’s no dress code for the ball –masks will be handed out or you can arrive in your owncarnival costume! Saturday, July 16, will see the citycome to life Latin-style with Brazilian and SouthAmerican inspired activities taking place aroundLiverpool throughout the day, including a free all-daySouth American street party. The street party will seeopen dance classes, music sessions, street football

demonstrations and workshops in Williamson Squarefrom noon until 6pm, with Brazilian food, drink and funfor all the family available throughout the day.

The carnival steps up a gear in the evening asLiverpool’s streets are set ablaze with colour and thecarnival parade of over 1,000 people makes its way to thefestival site, winding through the city centre streets,whilst the Brazilian bands and DJs take to the stage forthe party to begin.

Around 500 beautiful, bejewelled samba dancers,Brazilian-style drummers and spectacular floats willjourney through Liverpool from 8.30pm. Starting atAbercrombie Square the parade will lead down MountPleasant, turning onto Hope Street, then Hardman Streetbefore passing St Luke’s bombed-out church. The paradewill make its way down Bold Street, then stomp its waythrough Church Street, to the main stage at WilliamsonSquare performing until 11pm. Festivities will continuewell into the night, finishing with an exciting after-partyat Nation.

Sunday, July 17, gives you a chance to wind down yourweekend with Samba Sunday, as the carnival getscultural with sports, film and artistic events taking placeacross the city. And, if you want to make the most ofthose sexy samba dance moves you’ve picked up over theweekend, you can join in with one of the largest Zumbaevents at Chavasse Park in Liverpool ONE.

Running from 2pm-5pm, the three hour Zumbathon hasbeen organised by Orb Events, Liverpool ONE and RitmoFitness, and the £5 ticket fee will raise funds for theMarie Curie Hospice in Woolton and Liverpool CarnivalCompany.Log on to www.brazilicafestival.com for details andtickets.

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Must try...THE Hub Alehouse& Kitchen whichoffers a cool mix ofcity centre bar andgastropub.The welcomingGrade II listed pub is a hub for the localcommunity and visitors alike. It’s close toLiverpool ONE and the city centre shops, soit’s good for a snack, lunch or a heartyevening meal. Of course, it’s also great for a quiet pint, with

real ale fans well catered for.The Hub Alehouse and Kitchen, 12 HanoverStreet, Liverpool, 0151 709 2401.

Must remember...TO wash the kids’ handsbefore they sample MagicChoc. That’s because thischocolate doesn’t melt.Instead it squishes up inyour hands like Plasticineand then you can model itinto fun shapes and showoff your arty side – before scoffing it ofcourse!Great fun for the young and the young atheart, Magic Choc may just be the nextconfectionery craze. We at Best of Liverpoolhave been trying it out all week. Buy it onlinefrom www.magic-choc.com

Must see...TJ & Murphy when theylaunch their new album atThe Zanzibar Club, on SeelStreet this month.After forming in 2008,the local lads have beenbusy honing their blend of acoustic folk andbreathtaking harmonies, touring England andthe continent. To celebrate the release oftheir second studio album, Hurricanes,they’re playing a special gig at The Zanzibaron Saturday, July 16. This looks like being amust-see gig, with the lads on top form and afull band in tow. Tickets £5 in advance fromThe Zanzibar Club, 0151 707 0633.

Must do...THE old grey matter afavour and expand yourmind with a visit to thebrand new Museum ofLiverpool. Situated at MannIsland, it’s all set to open onTuesday, July 19.You may think you alreadyknow everything there is to know about yourcity, but this museum is ready to make youthink again.Visit and discover Liverpool’s truly uniquecontribution to the world.Log onto www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk formore information.


LEGALLY BLONDE

IT’S taken Broadway and the West End bystorm and it picked up the Best NewMusical gong in this year’s OlivierAwards, and now it’s about to hitLiverpool. Legally Blonde The Musical begins itsnationwide tour at the Liverpool Empirefrom July 8-16. Starring Liverpool’s LizMcClarnon, the show is based on themovie of the same name, starring ReeseWitherspoon, and has been put togetherby a top-class creative team.This all singing, all dancing, feel-goodmusical comedy will be the must-seetheatrical event in Liverpool this summerand the most fashionable ticket in town.This much fun shouldn’t be legal!Show times are 7.30pm, Monday toSaturday, with matinees Wednesday andSaturday at 2.30pm. Tickets are pricedfrom £18.50 to £49.50 and are availablefrom the Liverpool Empire box office, bycalling 0844 871 3017 or by bookingonline at www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

CIRCUSCIRCUS may have moved from TheMasque for the summer session, but thebeat goes on, this month served up fromthe intimate environs of basement venueThe Hold within Slater Street’s cool TheShipping Forecast.On Saturday, July 30, super starlet MayaJane Coles makes her Circus debut, and

it promises to be a scorcher.The likes of Radio Slave, John Tejadaand Steve Bug, plus seminal Londonparties Secretsundaze and Mulletover,inspired Maya’s own take on groove-laden house. Now she’s the toast of theelectronic scene, so roll up, roll up, toCircus at The Hold for a hot platter ofmeticulously-honed house music. Clubarchitect Yousef and resident LewisBoardman will be in attendance too. Tickets are £10 fromwww.chibuku.com/shop or 3B records on0151 353 7027.

LIVERPOOL ARABIC FILMFESTIVALFACT is the place to go this month toexperience the best of Arabic cinema.The first-ever Liverpool Arabic Film

Festival is running at FACT until Sunday,July 10, in collaboration with the city’slong-standing Liverpool Arabic ArtsFestival.With Arabic directors making some ofthe most important cinema of recenttimes and being recognised around theworld for their artistic vision, Liverpoolnow has the chance to see workexamining the history and politics of theArabic-speaking world.With special screenings of both newfilms and re-mastered classics, theprogramme also includes discussionswith significant Arab filmmakers.Visit www.fact.co.uk for moreinformation.

BY NIGHTBY DAY

Paul Baker sets the scene for those getting out and about in the region this July...

BEATLES DAYON Sunday, July 10,the Albert Dock willbe celebrating allthings Fab Four as itplays host to the 2011Beatles Day.Currently in itsfourth year, Beatles Day is the annualcelebration of Liverpool’s favourite sons, theirmusic and the city of Liverpool. Fun for all thefamily, Beatles-inspired bands will beperforming throughout the day across theDock, bringing music to every corner.A specially-created, Beatles-themed treasurehunt will take you on a Long and Winding Roadaround the Dock and through its many venues,so make sure you grab a clue sheet eitheronline from www.albertdock.com or the AlbertDock Visitor Information Centre on the day.And make sure you head down dressed toimpress in your 60s finery – there will be afancy dress competition judged at 3pm inAnchor Courtyard, with prizes available for thebest 60s costume.Visit www.albertdock.com or www.beatlesday.tvfor more information.

PIRATE WEEKENDCOME on mehearties and getyerselves over tothe Pirate Weekendat the Albert Dock.Saturday, July 30,marks the start of atwo-day pirateexperience whicheven features a realpirate ship, oo-arr! For that weekend,

the Albert Dock willbe taken over bypiratical sorts,entertaining visitorswith an array ofhair-raising yarns about notorious captains,famed privateers, treasure hunters and more. Visit www.albertdock.com to join in the fun.

PORT SUNLIGHT SUMMER FESTIVAL

EXPERIENCE a festival with a difference in PortSunlight Village this month.The annual festival, organised by Port SunlightVillage Trust, will feature a full programme ofactivities and showcase all that Wirral has tooffer. Don’t miss this day of fun for all thefamily. The activities cater for all ages and feature

everything from a traditional fairgroundcarousel to live entertainment and the very bestin local food and drink.Now in its eighth year, the Port SunlightSummer Festival takes place on Sunday, July24, between 11am and 5pm. With a range ofactivities to look forward to and free entry tothe festival, Port Sunlight is set to attract over15,000 visitors from across the region.

BEST of Liverpool, incollaboration with Port

Sunlight Museum & GardenVillage, is giving one lucky reader

the chance to take home a summerhamper filled with everything they’ll need toenjoy the perfect July day.Filled to the brim with oodles of summer nibblesand tempting treats from Port Sunlight SummerFestival producers Liverpool Cheese Companyand The Chocolate Cellar (to name just a couple),as well as a family ticket to Port SunlightMuseum and a voucher for lunch or tea at theVillage’s freshly-brewed tearoom – you’ll be spoiltfor choice!

To be in with a chance to win, simply answer thefollowing question:

Q. Which philanthropist built Port SunlightVillage as a home for his soap factoryworkers?

Send your answer on a postcard with yourname and daytime phone number to Best ofLiverpool, Liverpool Daily Post & Echo, PO Box48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB. Closingdate for entries: July 15. The prize must beclaimed at the Port Sunlight Summer Festival,on Sunday, July 24, 2011. Maximum one entryper person.

JULY 11Things to do, places to see

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15BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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FAMED for playing matriarchal battle-axes likeShameless’ Mimi McGuire and Brookside’s Mo McGee,Tina Malone is not one to mince her words. Thetalented Toxteth actress is known for her straight-talking nature and larger-than-life personality but, as Idiscovered when interviewing her recently, she’s alsoferociously funny, warm, friendly and incredibly hard-working.

Tina’s strong opinions have made her a formidablecharacter during her illustrious career and, while herno-nonsense nature has not diminished, the womanherself has significantly slimmed down. “I’ve lost 7st4lbs in the last 12-months with my gastric band,”explains Tina.

The newly-svelte Shameless star returns to ourscreens next month as the second half of series eightairs on Channel 4. Now busy filming series nine ofShameless, Tina looks amazing. However, such adramatic weight-loss couldn’t go unexplained on-screen.

“The producers have had to include it in the showbecause it was getting so ridiculous that you couldnotice the weight loss anyway,” says the 48-year-old.“They’ve written it in with a different storyline, asopposed to Tina having a gastric band; it’s about Mimilosing weight in another way.”

There are also wedding bells in store for Chatsworth’sMimi McGuire in the coming series, as Tina reveals:“You see Mimi get married, which I’m allowed to saynow. I can’t say who to, but she has this big gypsywedding with the pumpkin [carriage], the horses andthe big huge dress. It was funny to do because I only gotmarried myself last August – we’ve literally just gotback from honeymoon in the Dominican.”

Tina met husband Paul Chase – a personal trainer 19years her junior – whilst doing a celebrity boot camp. “I went to celebrity fat camp and he was one of the

trainers, so I always say ‘I lost five inches from aroundmy waist, an inch and a half from my bust and an inchfrom my hips, but I went home with eight inches!’”laughs Tina, although the romance didn’t exactly get

off to a conventional start. “I hated him for the first four days – I was like ‘listen,

I’m a celebrity, paid to be here, I don’t have to do the fellwalking’ and he was having none of it!” The couplesoon fell in love and have been inseparable ever-since.

“We moved in together after 13 days and we haven’thad a night apart in two and a half years – except thenight before we got married,” smiles Tina. “Even then,he was ringing me at two in the morning, going ‘youare coming tomorrow?’ And I went ‘we’ve taken overthe Hilton, we’ve got 550 guests, 9,500 red roses and 60

celebrities – you bet your sweet life I’ll be there!’” Married life obviously suits Tina, who beamed: “I’m

in a really good place mentally and physically. I’m inthe best relationship I’ve ever been in – we still feel likea couple of kids courting. I’m still incredibly happy andI kinda think, when’s my bubble gonna burst?”

Never one to rest on her laurels, Tina is a self-confessed workaholic and, as well as filming series nineof Shameless, she’s also busy writing her book, andpreparing to tackle two Merseyside stage roles.

In October, she will appear alongside daughterDanielle, 30, in Rita, Sue and Bob Too at St HelensTheatre Royal and, in December, Tina will star in SnowWhite at the Royal Court – the only theatre in the wholeof Liverpool where she’s never performed.

“I’ve never, ever been on that stage,” admits Tina.“There’s not a theatre in this city that I haven’t doneexcept the Royal Court.”

Having the chance to work with some of Liverpool’s

iconic female directors also attracted Tina to the roles,saying: “Having Sylvia Gatrill direct, who’s an oldfriend and a Liverpool ‘leg-end’ as I say, and JaneJoseph, whose pantos are legendary, really attractedme.”

So how does she feel about being back on stage after atwo year hiatus? “It’s just amazing to be doing two playsalmost back-to-back,” says Tina. “I’m doing Rita, Sueand Bob Too – a great, well-written, politically-drivencomedy, a tragic drama comedy, I think. But then doing apanto, which is something that is fiercely traditional.”

She continues: “I’m not one of those actors who says‘I’d rather tread the boards.’ I love filming, I enjoytelevision and film. I love both, which I’m lucky enoughand privileged enough to have done a lot of. But, I like toget on stage every two years because I think, as an actor,it knocks the cobwebs off.”

Originally set in Bradford during the 1980s, Rita, Sueand Bob Too is a timely choice given the currentclimate, as Tina explains: “Rita, Sue and Bob Too waswritten and placed in Thatcher’s Britain, we’re nowtalking Cameron’s Britain aren’t we? It’s been updatedto coincide with the credit crunch and the recession.

“With the panto, we can play around with that. It’s alsoworking alongside Pete Price, who I’ve known for manyyears, and Mickey Finn, who’s an amazing comic who Iused to go and see with my Dad, many years ago. Thoseopportunities don’t come along all the time and I’m veryflattered to have been asked to do them.”

Tina adds: “The other beauty of doing the Royal Courtis the fact that I’m going to be in my city. I live inManchester now, I have done for five years. I loveManchester but I’m still a total ardent Liverpool fan andalways have been. I have to fight my corner regularly, asyou can imagine, being surrounded by Man U and ManCity fans on Shameless. It will be lovely to be in my city,which is the greatest city in the world, it’s the mostbeautiful city, with the most wonderful people.”

Whatever she’s doing, Tina prides herself on having astrong work ethic, saying: “My work ethic is second tonone. I’m a consummate professional. I know my lines,I’m never late, I’m the only actress who’s never had aday off that I know. I am a workaholic and I will give thesame to a panto and Rita, Sue and Bob Too as I do toShameless.”

Tina recognises that “in this business you can haveeverything one day and nothing the next” and believesher hard-working approach is down to her roots, adding:“I think it’s my Celtic roots and I do think it’s a Scousething. I think it comes from your parents as well.

“I also think that you only get out of something whatyou put in. And, whatever job you do, whether you're aplumber, a hairdresser or an actor – if you workfuriously, fervently and you have tenacity about you –talent will out as someone once told me. I’ve worked mya*se off to get where I am and so I feel I deserve andmore than appreciate it.”

With such a down-to-earth attitude and strong workethic, it’s no surprise that Toxteth’s talented TinaMalone is now one of the most recognisable faces on TV.


The BIG interview

Shameless star Tina Malone talks to Katie McLoughlin about talent, hertoyboy husband and treading the boards...

"I’m still a total ardent Liverpoolfan and always have been. I haveto fight my corner regularly, asyou can imagine, beingsurrounded by Man U and ManCity fans on Shameless."

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THE spirit of samba is something that Brazilian,Simone Reeves, is passionate about, but it wasn’t untilshe came to the UK that she really felt the rhythm ofthose Latin beats.

Sexy hip shaking, sparkles and stunning costumes allcome naturally to Simone, who’s now the Brazilicasamba queen, although she admits she didn't startdancing until five years ago – once she had left her homeof Santa Catarina.

“I came to England around six years ago to be withPhilip, who’s now my husband. When he went to work inGermany, I met a Brazilian woman who asked me towork on a tour of samba dance, and that’s what reallysparked my interest in samba,” says Simone.

She continues: “Once I arrived back in Liverpool Ididn’t know anyone so I tried to find a samba class andcame across the Liverpool Samba School. I didn’t dancewhen I first joined, I just played the drums, but after awhile Maeve Morris, who runs the samba school, got medancing and I got more confident.”

Simone then strutted her stuff at the Lord Mayor’sParade during the city’s Capital of Culture celebrations,which was her first public appearance. “There was sucha huge turn out for the parade,” beams Simone. “I wasso inspired by all of the carnival dancers and thefabulous atmosphere that I decided to open my owncompany, Viva Brasil Dance.

“I was very scared at first. Opening my own businesswas never something I aspired to do, but it’s wonderful.It includes samba dancing, costume making and classes,and I even perform each week at Alma De Cuba and BemBrazil.”

It’s clear to see how enthusiastic Simone is aboutsamba, and in February, she even went to Rio withPhilip to dance on a float for Mangueira Samba Schoolas part of the fabulous Rio Carnival. “It was one of themost exhilarating experiences and I can’t wait to do itagain next year. It was amazing and it gave me great newideas for this year’s Liverpool Brazilica carnival,” saysSimone with excitement.

As the Brazilica samba queen it’s Simone’s job to keepthe carnival spirit pumping through the streets ofLiverpool as the parade runs through Mount Pleasant,Bold Street and Williamson Square. “I need to keep thebeat, keep smiling and motivate all the dancers, as wellas the crowd,” says Simone.

As well as following the exciting, fast-paced beats, it’s

the striking bold colours, sparkling costumes full ofsequins and feathers, plus shimmering vivid make-upthat stirs the party mood in everyone who sees theglamorous samba dancers. And it’s this reason whySimone spends so much time perfecting and hand-making her own spectacular costumes.

“My first costume was made for me by the LiverpoolSamba School, but I wanted to try more colours anddifferent shapes, as that’s part of what really makes thecarnival. So I started making my own costumes and now,as the Brazilica samba queen, my outfit has to bedifferent from all of the others, so it can take up to fourmonths to make. “The feathers on the costumes are a huge importance –

one year I had to get pheasant feathers from America aswell as feathers from Brazil. My husband’s so

supportive, he helps me too, he’s an engineer so he weldsand solders items onto the costume. I love thinking ofnew styles and colours, and now I also make most of thecostumes for the dancers at Viva Brasil Dance School.”The glamour of the samba dancers takes time to

perfect, so Simone’s students are shown how to applytheir own glam make-up using plenty of glitter andsequins, as well as a few tricks of the trade.

“Liverpool girls get very much into the carnival spirit,samba dance is a fabulous way to really express yourself.“Sometimes people are so shy when they start and can

hold back a bit, but their confidence builds in each ofthe classes,” says Simone.

Join in the festival fun with Simone and the otherbeautiful, bejewelled samba dancers at Brazilica, July15-17, or test your dancing feet at www.Viva-Brasil.co.uk

17BEST OF LIVERPOOL

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NEIL TOONRISING star Neil Toon takes to the Liverpool Empirestage this month in the camp-tastic production ofLegally Blonde.Playing the role of Warner alongside former AtomicKitten singer Liz McClarnon, the young thesp is set towow audiences with his versatile acting skills.Neil is best known for playing bad boy Kyle Ryder inChannel 4 soap Hollyoaks, for which he wasnominated for a gong at the 2011 British Soap Awards.And his CV goes further than that. The young Brithas got his acting chops around meaty roles in thelikes of BBC2 drama Worried About The Boy, a biopicabout 80s pop sensation Boy George — as well as theWest End production of New Boy.He’s also strutted his stuff in the theatricaladaptations of Footloose, Les Miserables, Fender andHairspray. Plus, as an alumni of the prestigious ArtsEducational School in London, Neil has travelled theglobe in the international tour of Romeo and Juliet. For more information on Neil, visit www.neiltoon.com

ONES TO WATCH

Neil Toon

QUEENSambaEmma Thompson catches up with Simone Reeves, as she prepares to shake hertail feather through the city for this month's Brazilica Festival...

“Liverpool girls get verymuch into the carnival

spirit, samba dance is afabulous way to really

express yourself."

THE WILD SWANSLIVERPOOL’S legendary ‘lost’ band, The WildSwans, are back with a new album, The ColdestWinter for a Hundred Years, after a 22 year hiatus.Originally formed by singer and songwriter PaulSimpson in 1981, the band was tipped for greatnessby the music press. Alas they split up before thepromise could be fulfilled, leaving the single,Revolutionary Spirit, as their sole legacy.The band reformed in 1987, signed to Sire recordsand released two acclaimed albums, before splitting for a second time in 1989. Thethird incarnation of The Wild Swans is the completion of unfinished business for PaulSimpson, seeking to finally realise the great album that the band never achieved witha major label.The band's new line up features Simpson, Les Pattinson (ex Bunnymen), Ricky Maymi(Brian Jonestown Massacre), Mike Mooney (ex Spiritualised), Richard Turvey and SteveBeswick. Candie Payne and Will Sergeant (Bunnymen) also make guest appearances.The new album, The Coldest Winter for a Hundred Years, is now available fromOccultation Records (www.occultation.co.uk) and, if the buzz from the recent UK tourand early reviews of the album are anything to go by, Simpson appears to have finallyachieved his dream.

Paul Simpson

With the school holidays looming, Sue Kelbrickchecks out what’s on offer at Liverpool’smuseums and finds some great ways to keepthe kids entertained...

TATE LIVERPOOL

TATE Liverpool at the Albert Dock is a good place to start asthere are always loads of family friendly events going on. Tocelebrate the keenly awaited Magritte exhibition (on untilOctober 16), the Tate is holding a ‘Month of Magritte’throughout August, a month of child-friendly activities. With fantastic views over the Albert Dock, Tate LiverpoolCafé serves refreshments and hot and cold food throughoutthe day. And want to know the best bit? Kids eat free! Whenan adult orders a main course from the delicious seasonalmenu, youngsters can choose a free main course from thechildren’s menu. For more information visit www.tate.org.uk or telephone 0151 702 7400.

WESTERN APPROACHESA HIDDEN gem in the heart of Liverpool is the WesternApproaches on Rumford Street, which was home to theWestern Approaches Command during the Second World War;after German attacks on ships travelling to Britain fromFrance, led to naval routes being redirected around the northof Ireland.The complex, known locally asthe Citadel or Fortress, wasdesigned to be bomb-proof andgas-proof and has 100 roomscovering an area of 50,000square feet. A visit to the WesternApproaches recreates theexperience to a tee and offers afascinating insight into one ofthe most important militaryoperations of the Second WorldWar. Visit www.liverpoolwarmuseum.co.ukfor further details or telephone0151 227 2008.

SUDLEY HOUSETRAVEL just a little way out of the city centre and check outthe delightful Sudley House, in the leafy south Liverpoolsuburb of Aigburth. The house was built in the early 19thcentury for a rich corn merchant and is thought to have theonly surviving Victorian merchant art collection in Britain stillhanging in its original location.There’s plenty to keep the children entertained withinteractive activities to enjoy, a dressing up box, drawing andcolouring and it even has its own very own Victorian dolls’house, a winner with kids every time.Enjoy some lunch, morning coffee or afternoon tea atSudley’s warm and welcoming café and, if the weather allows,you can enjoy your refreshments al fresco in the beautifulcourtyard and have a wander around the idyllic grounds.For further information, visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/sudleyor telephone 0151 724 3245.

MUSEUM OF LIVERPOOLTHE opening of the new Museum of Liverpool will take placeon July 19 and promises to tell the fascinating story of thecity of Liverpool in an interesting and illuminating way. It isworth a visit just to see the splendour of the stunningbuilding, which showcases the best of cutting-edge designand technology. The museum has various galleries includingWondrous Place, which celebrates the city’s amazing roll-callof writers, entertainers, poets, performers, musicians, artists,comedians and sports people, and the People’s Republicgallery examining the essence of life in Liverpool and what itmeans to be a Liverpudlian. Visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk for more information.

18

JULY 11Children

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Cultured

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LIVERPOOL has got more museums and art galleries than you canshake a stick at, so you certainly won’t be stuck for things to do overthe summer holidays.

And, even better, if the British weather remains true to form, youdon’t need to worry about whether it’s raining or not!

The city has a number of national museums including the WorldMuseum, Walker Art Gallery, Merseyside Maritime Museum,International Slavery Museum, Lady Lever Art Gallery, Sudley House,and, last but certainly not least, the eagerly anticipated Museum ofLiverpool, due to open in just a few weeks.

In addition, there are a number of other hidden gems throughout thecity, so why not immerse yourself in some real culture this summer?

kids

Various Party Packs available Ages up to 10 years Venue holds 15 childrenAll Occasions Catered for We can come to you or you can come to usA venue designed to bring a sparkle to your childrens eye!

www.princesspartyland.co.ukwww.princesspartyland.co.ukwww.princesspartyland.co.ukwww.princesspartyland.co.uk6 Greenbank Road L18 1HN6 Greenbank Road L18 1HN6 Greenbank Road L18 1HN6 Greenbank Road L18 1HN T: 07926 944419T: 07926 944419T: 07926 944419T: 07926 944419

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19BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11Children

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TEL: 0151 525 0303TEL: 0151 525 0303EMAILEMAIL : [email protected]: [email protected]

www.milliemolliemandysltd.co.ukwww.milliemolliemandysltd.co.ukEVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A GREAT PARTY!!!EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A GREAT PARTY!!!

CARDS, GIFTS, BALLOONS, BANNERS, INVITATIONS, CHAIR COVERS,CARDS, GIFTS, BALLOONS, BANNERS, INVITATIONS, CHAIR COVERS,TABLEWare, new baby garden stands PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE!!TABLEWare, new baby garden stands PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE!!

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We have FREE pre-school sessions for 3&4 year olds

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Green Lane, Mossley HillGreen Lane, Mossley Hill

OPEN DAYOPEN DAYSATURDAY16th JULYSATURDAY16th JULY

11am - 2pm11am - 2pm

Derby Lane, Old SwanDerby Lane, Old Swan

• Large garden• Modern large garden classroom

• Off-road parking• Large sensory room• Come and see our ‘welly wall art’

11Green Lane, Mossley Hill, L186HA

Tel: 01517241999Tel: 01517241999email: [email protected]

www.sure-stepsnursery.com

OPEN DAYOPEN DAYSATURDAY9th JULYSATURDAY9th JULY

11am - 2pm11am - 2pm

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Tel: 01512203593Tel: 01512203593email: [email protected]

www.surestepsderbylane.com

• FREE1WEEK CARE FOR FIRST TEN FAMILIESFREE1WEEK CARE FOR FIRST TEN FAMILIES

SIGNING UP ONOPEN DAYSIGNING UP ONOPEN DAY

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Terms apply see website


WITH those all-too-familiar criesof ‘are we there yet?’ still ringingin your ears, make sure thatyou’ve got plenty to keep the kidsentertained, once you arrive atyour destination.

JULY 11Children

Cool luggage isn’t just for the grown ups. Sue Kelbrick checks out thelatest trends for children who want to travel in style...

And when you get there...

Travelling tots

Back pack five-in-onebeach games, fromWoolworths

My First Badmintonset, £20, from EarlyLearning Centre

Snorkel set, £8, fromEarly Learning Centre

Beach skittles, £49.63,from Drinkstuff

Childrens' minisuitcases, £22.95,from Bouf.com

Princess Castle Activitybook for girls, £6.50, fromPeanut and Pip

Travel Buddie dogsnuggle pillow, £10.99,from Umbrella

Junior backpacks andlunch totes by Room it Up,from Becky and Lolo

Trunki wheel alongsuitcase, £29.99, fromGettingpersonal.co.uk

Zoo Pack backpacks, £20,from Peanut and Pip

21BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11

Rental Gateway Ltd412 Prescot RoadOld SwanLiverpool L13 3DA

Tel: 0151 228 6939

ALSO AVAILABLEPansy Street, L5. 2 BedroomTerrace. £450pcmCrocus Street L5. 2 BedroomTerrace. £450pcmKensington L7. Large 1 Bed apartments. £450pcm

Sefton Drive, L8Studio apartment

Close to Sefton ParkViewing recommended

£380 pcm

Corsewall Street, L72 BedroomTerrace in quiet street.

Fully refurbished including new

bathroom, kitchen and central heating.

Viewing highly recommended £500pcm

Denman Drive, L62 x 2 bedroom apartments.

Refurbished to a high standard

and viewing is highly recommended.

Rent from £550pcm

BLUE SKIP HIRE LTDFAST & RELIABLE SERVICE

0151 207 5555ACCOUNTS WELCOMESAME DAY PICK-UP

4T £60 • 6T £758T £10010T £12012T £130

Please, please support your local rescue centre.Liverpool Cat Welfare help many unwanted cats and kittens. A large volume ofour work involves trapping and neutering feral cats. These sad little cats leadmiserable lives. Their only crime is to be born. With your help we can continuerescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming the feral cats in outdoor homes. We aimto help animals like little Gypsy who lived her life in a garden, was never allowedin the house and never knew the comfort of a home, No outside shelter was evergiven but she was fed by an elderly lady until she went into hospital. Her sontook over Gypsys care with just water. No food was ever given. We tried so hardfor Gypsy. She was beautiful and very affectionate. Sadly, she died of multi organfailure due to servere malnutrition. Gypsy had been starved to death.Jeremy is a stunning and splendid looking black and white cat but unluck forhim, he was run over by a car. His owner no longer wanted him so into our careJeremy came. His damaged front leg had to be amputated. The vet bill cost avast amount of money when funds are at an all time low. We desperately needyour help for us to continue our rescue work. Please make a donation today.We also appreciate any donation of goods for our charity shop.

Liverpool Cat Welfare, 1 High Street, Wavertree, L15 8HE07946859965

WE HAVE MANY YOUNG CATS AND KITTENS INOUR CARE. CAN YOU PLEASE OFFER ONE A HOME?

DAVY LIVER TAXISDAVY LIVER TAXISNow Recruiting Owner Drivers

Some Company Cars Available

COURSES AVAILABLETo Achieve Liverpool Standard 1 Taxi Badge Licence

Requirement atDAVY LIVER GROUP TRAINING SCHOOL

Full funding available to new QCF requirements

AIRPORT TRANSFERS SUMMER EXTRAVAGANZACall now for details

TEL: Davy Liver Taxis on 0151 708 708021 Stafford Street, Liverpool L3 8LX • www.7087080.co.uk

9 5 a A L L E R T O N R O A DA E R I A L S F I T T E D A N D R E PA I R E D• Digital Aerials, Sky Digital • Discount for OAP’s

• Same Day ServiceWe also cover Wirral, Crosby, Formby and Southport

Tel: 0151 722 4481 www.allertonaerials.comOUR REPUTATION IS YOUR GUARANTEE FOR SERVICE WHERE IT COUNTS

243a County Rd Walton Liverpool L4 5PETel 0151 521 2374 • Fax 0151 521 7748

Email [email protected] • www.pmeestates.com

Pme estates have over 20 years experience in letting all aspects of property; we manage alarge portfolio of properties ranging from hmo’s to studio apartments.

We offer a wide range of services to cater for your every need• Advertising your property to potential tenants• Sourcing suitable and reliable tenants for the property• Accompanying potential tenants to view the property• Obtaining references and conducting credit checks on potential tenants• Providing you with information on the latest safety regulations• Preparing the tenancy agreement• Organising and managing the collection of the tenant’s deposit• Preparing the inventory and conducting a state of repair assessment on the property• Checking in the tenant and agreeing the inventory• Collecting the rent from the tenant• Transferring the rental income to your account and providing you with statements ofaccount Managing and arranging necessary repairs

• Managing and arranging any necessary repairs• Inspecting the property periodically and feeding back any comments to you• Providing tenants with notice at the end of the tenancy• Re-letting the property as quickly as possible and minimising and ‘down-time’

We now offer landlords a no letting fee and new tenants free administration charges.

FLATS & HOUSES AVAILABLETHROUGHOUT LIVERPOOL

Lockwoods Market ShopNOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Established since 1948

•LIVERPOOL•EST.1945

Open office hours and Saturday8.00am to 11.30amTelephone: 0151 525 9258Bride Way, Netherton, Bootle L30 4UA

LOOKINGTO BEATTHE

CREDITCRUNCH?

Breakfastdelights, BBQ

Basics,Butcher’s

Quality meatsat Low Prices!

HAVING ACELEBRATION?

All yourbuffet needscatered for

Come tous for the bestSausages,

Bacon, BlackPuddingand LiverSausage

Slicedcooked

meats, pies,sausage rolls,drumsticks/

nibs

Come andsee our pies,sausage

rolls, quiche,gateaux andmuch more

Its BBQ Season!,consider savingthis summer at

LOCKWOODS andcome and seewhat we have to

offer.

Establishedover 40 years

Open7 days

GARDEN SHEDS • LOG CABINS • KENNELSDoYou Have Any Broken Or Damaged Fence Panels?

Call The Fence Expert For A Free Quotation

Supplier Of Quality FencingVisit our Showroom to view our extensive range of buildings on display

0151 922 5282 or 07581 883271198 / 200 RIMROSE ROAD, BOOTLE, LIVERPOOL

MERSEYSIDE L20 4QSwww.merseysheds.co.uk

THE Brazilica Festival sambas its way intoLiverpool this month so, ahead of the July15-17 event, I headed to Viva BrazilChurrascaria on Castle Street to get into theLatin spirit.

Housed within a former bank, therestaurant offers an authentic Braziliansteakhouse experience with a wholemenagerie of meats marinated in thetraditional Brazilian way, slow-roasted on acharcoal barbecue and paraded through therestaurant by an army of passadors(carvers) who carve the meat at your table.

There are 15 varieties of meat to try andViva Brazil’s traffic-light system is simple –just turn your coaster to green when youwant the passadors to stop at your table, orred to pause or stop.

After welcoming us and explaining theconcept, the attentive staff showed myboyfriend and I to a plush booth, one ofmany in the restaurant, which is decoratedin swathes of deep red with dark woodentables, sleek light fittings and a hugecharcoal barbecue taking centre stage.Settling into our sumptuous surroundings,we prepared to embrace Viva Brazil’s fundining concept but, when it came tochoosing drinks, we were overwhelmed bythe sheer range on offer.

The restaurant has one of the mostextensive wine lists I’ve come across,including plenty of Brazilian, Italian andChilean options. Plus, there’s a lengthycocktail list to peruse so, after deliberatingbetween a South American plonk and acaiprinha, we sought the advice of manager,Sadie, who recommended a crisp, medium-bodied Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.

Armed with our coloured coasters, westarted our culinary journey to SouthAmerica with a trip to the extensive saladbar. In fact, to call it a salad bar issomething of a disservice as there are over20 cold side-dishes, salads, meats, cheeses,

vegetables, fruits, sauces and breads andeight hot Brazilian dishes to choosebetween.

Having been warned not to fill up on thesalad bar, we both sampled five or sixdishes, as well as the Brazilian parmesanbread rolls, which were delicious.

With our coasters firmly on green, webegan our carnivores’ feast with parmesanpork – moist, tender pork with the piquanttaste of a salty parmesan rub on theoutside. No sooner had we bitten into itthough, when another passador came to thetable, this time with a succulent sirloin.

After more meats were brought over inquick succession and our plates were ladenwith chilli chicken, beef ribs, chicken inbacon and garlic rump steak; we turned ourcoasters to red before any more was broughtover, as even my meat-loving boyfriend wasstruggling to keep up with the pace!Devouring our meaty feast, we found mostof the meats to be delicious, the pork andbeef sirloin in particular were beautiful.Full and content, we kept our coasters onred and took a little break. However, when

my dining companion spotted the lambfrom the other side of the restaurant, heswiftly flipped them to green so that wedidn’t miss out! Marinated in red and whitewine, garlic, sea salt and bay leaves, thelamb was packed with flavour. Aftersampling no fewer than seven differentmeats, we finally admitted defeat andenjoyed another glass of Sauvignon Blancwhilst our meal settled.

With our bellies fit to bursting, we audiblygroaned as a plate of pineapple arrived atour table. The prospect of more food – evenif it was just fruit – was daunting after sucha meat-laden meal.However Sadie explained that the

pineapple aids digestion and helps to breakdown all that protein. Cooked on thebarbecue and coated with caramelisedcinnamon sugar, the juicy fruit was arefreshing palate cleanser.

Following the pineapple, a trio of dessertswas brought over for us to sample. Thepassionfruit mousse was uber-sweet andcreamy, while the Brigadeirao – a Brazilianchocolate mousse cake – was rich, velvetyand indulgent. Out of the three puds, ourfavourite by-far was the traditionalBrazilian caramel pudding, a cross betweena cake and a crème caramel.

All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed ourBrazilian culinary adventure; the food wasgood, the atmosphere fun and the servicewas attentive without being obtrusive.Viva Brazil offers great value too as youcan eat as much or as little as you like fora set price of £13.95 for lunch or £23.95 fordinner for the full rodizio.

Take my advice though and don’t eatanything for lunch if you’re going here –it’s carnivore heaven! Visit Viva Brazil, 36 Castle Street, Liverpool, L2 0NR, tel: 0151 236 8080 or go towww.vivabrazilrestaurants.com


DO you think you could create theLiverpool skyline entirely out of multi-flavoured jelly, or a life-sizedsculpture that bubbles and churnswhen brought to the dinner table?Ahead of the Liverpool Food and DrinkFestival in September, organisers SKEvents are searching the region for a'new Heston Blumenthal'.

The competition – which is open untilTuesday, July 18 – is a chance forexperimental local foodies, chefs andcookery students to delight diners withtheir weird and wonderful creations bycombining inspirational ideas, unusualingredients and irregular apparatus. The top-10 most-innovative entries andthe overall winner will be judged byleading food experimentalists andculinary event curators Bompas andParr, who’re famed for their extravagantchocolate waterfalls, jelly airports,cocktail lakes and even inhalable ginclouds. The most innovative entries willalso be showcased in the new Food Labat the Liverpool Food and DrinkFestival’s official launch event later thisyear.

Director of SK Events Denise Harrissays: “Gastronomy is all about the artand science of good eating and we’relooking for all types of weird andwonderful food creations, in any shapeor size. Competition entrants will bewhittled down to a shortlist of 10 who’llshowcase their designs at the festival’sofficial launch and at the festivalawards on September 12.”For details on how to enter, and a fullcalendar of events and activities takingplace during the festival, visitwww.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

SEARCH FOR CITY’S MOST

EXPERIMENTALFOODIE...

Food & drink JULY 11

You can bank on a good meal at Viva Brazil, says KatieMcLoughlin, as she treats her tastebuds to a taste of Brazil...

CARNIVORES’HEAVEN

Frango com Pimenta (Chilli Chicken)Ingredients:• 5kg chicken thighs (Oyster cut) • 500ml water • 70g sea salt• 1 tablespoon ground paprika• 1 heaped teaspoon chilli flakes• 100ml white wine• Juice of two lemons • 5 garlic cloves• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Method: 1. Wash chicken and trim excess fat and skin.Add all ingredients to a large bowl and mixtogether thoroughly. Add the chicken and rubthe marinade into each cut. Leave tomarinate in a fridge for at least 12 hours.

2. To cook, place on a high fire BBQ or grill tocreate a crust with a light yellow appearance.Then hold on medium fire for 12-15 mins untilthe chicken is a deep orange colour, andcooked through, with no blood inside.

ADD SOME SPICE TO YOUR DINNER...

Photos: Paul Heaps

Photo: Jason Roberts

23BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Food & drink JULY 11

A true Italian experience

Bar ItaliaBar Italia Restaurant is situated at48a Castle Street in the heart of Liverpool.Open daily for lunch and dinner - until 11pm on Saturdays

Opening TimesBar Italia is open six days of the week:Monday-Friday: 11.30am to 3.00pmTuesday-Saturday: 5.30pm to 11.00pm

Party BookingsBar Italia also offers the option ofbooking tables for parties from 10 up to 50 people.If you are interested in booking a party then please contact:[email protected]

(selection and payment within seven days prior to date of booking)£5 per person deposit required

THE BEST IN ITALIAN FOOD

Telephone:0151 236 3375

15-21 Lark Lane • Reservations: 0151 728 9728Website www.redfortlarklane.com

Indian RestaurantFriendly atmosphere

Great Food• Reservations taken from 5pm• Open: Mon-Sat 5pm-11pm Sun 1pm-10.30pm• Take Away Service Available• Private Function Room Available

13 Aintree Road, Bootle, Merseyside L20 9DL tel: 0151 9221212 w: www.ruis-restaurant.com

Lunch and Evening SetMenu

2 CourseMeal £10.953 CourseMeal £13.95

KiddiesMenu3 CourseMeal £6.95

Rui’smouthwateringTAPASmenu nowAvailableAvailableTuesday to Friday - 12 till 2.00pmMonday to Sunday - Served all daySaturday 5.30 to 8pm

summeroffers

2for1pizzaorpasta

ENJOY TWO FORTHE PRICE OF ONE..ANY PIZZA OR PASTAMONDAY TO THURSDAYLunch 12pm til 2pmEvenings 5.30pm til 10pm

BUY ANY TWO LARGEGLASSES OF HOUSE WINE..And Get The Rest Of The Bottle FREE

We NowOpen Monday Even

ings

Rui’s is a warm andfriendly Restaurant

established for 21 years

Ourmenus offer awide selectionof the finest

English andContinental CuisineWe cater forWeddings,Christenings,Graduations,Birthdays,Office Parties.

Excellent Service,Value forMoneyand FriendlyAtmosphereTakeAwayAvailable...GiftVouchersAvailable...

We do not accept chequesChildren under 4.5ft eat for HALF PRICE10% OFF for Students & OAPs

4 Queens Square, Liverpool L1 1HFT: 0151 709 2811

TREAT YOUR FAMILYON A SUNDAY FOR £21(2 adults & 2 children under 4 yrs)A free bottle of bubbly for all

Hen & Stag parties

OUTSIDE CATERINGAVAILABLE from £4.50pp

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFETWITH OVER 70 DISHES

Liverpool L1 1HF

Lunch BuffetMon to Thurs £6.45Fri & Sat £6.99 11.30am-6.00pm (last helping 6.30pm)

Grand BuffetMon to Thurs £9.50Fri & Sat £10.50 6.01pm-12am (inc Crispy Duck & Seafood)

Sunday All Day Buffet11.30am-12.00 noon £7.50

Celebrate your birthday with us and wewill supply your birthday cake for free!

The James Monro

Have you Heard What’s Going on ?

The all new James Monro has recently enjoyed a complete reinvention. Now serving stunning British and Mediterranean cuisine using great artisan suppliers.

The James Monro provides the city with its second premier Gastropub and what’s more we’re leading the way with a whole series of Summer events.

New Changes for 2011:

Complete renovation All new menus Summer season of events

July Event List

14th & 28th July - Jazz at The James. BBC musicians, 3 course meal, £25pp

Every Friday - After Work Tapas & Latin Jazz Club - Complimentary Cocktails and authentic Tapas, FREE for a limited time.

20th July - The Summer Sessions. Try a hearty tasting plate of exclusive steak cuts or lighter summer dishes, while listening to contemporary acoustic hits.

For full event details visit:thejamesmonro.com

or Call 0151 236 970069 Tithebarn Street, Liverpool, L2 2EN

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TRADITIONAL British fayre is often dismissed asunimaginative and, at times, somewhat bland. After all, there’snothing particularly exciting about bangers and mash or jamroly poly is there?

But at 60 Hope Street, British cuisine has had a bit of amakeover. Indeed, British food is far from boring at thisacclaimed city restaurant as it prides itself on giving traditionaldishes a contemporary twist and uses locally-sourcedingredients to create exciting, seasonal menus.

Visiting 60 Hope Street recently, I dined from the Best ofBritish menu, which celebrates all things good about ournational cuisine – from beautifully fresh, quality ingredients tocontemporary takes on traditional dishes, such as Pimm’sserved as a sorbet; Formby asparagus with poached egg andsoldiers; or apricot Bakewell tart.

Situated in a Georgian townhouse with a crisp, moderninterior, 60 Hope Street is an elegant setting to enjoy a spot offine dining and, as we took our seats, I was pleased to see ourtable had great views of the city’s Georgian quarter, as well asthe restaurant’s Superlambanana, which takes pride of placenear the entrance.

Like all of 60 Hope Street’s specials, the Best of British menuoffered a good choice of dishes, with something to please mostpalates and, after enjoying a selection of fresh breads, mydining companion and I both opted to start with the duckroulade. Served with a delicately-spiced plum chutney, crispbread and a salad garnish, the well-presented duck was moistand flavoursome.

For mains, my dining companion enjoyed a deliciously tendercut of beef, served rare, with crisp roast potatoes. I opted for theGoosnargh chicken, a succulent roast chicken breast withperfectly-seasoned crispy skin, the chicken was served on top ofa bed of buttery spring greens with a fondant potato, flavour-packed chestnut mushrooms and a rich jus – it was mouth-wateringly good.

When it came to dessert, my companion indulged with acreamy panna cotta served with fresh berries, while I plumped

for an orange tart. A twist on a classic British custard tart, thetart was served with a refreshing vanilla sorbet and thecombination of light, crumbly pastry; creamy-yet-citrusy tartfilling and palate-cleaning sorbet was simply scrumptious.

Throughout our meal the service was attentive without beingobtrusive and, despite taking our time with our contemporaryBritish feast (I’m a notoriously slow eater), we never felt hurriedor rushed.

The Best of British menu offers great value too, with a threecourse dinner and a glass of wine costing just £20 per person.Better hurry if you want to take advantage of this special dealthough, as it’s only available until July 10.

To book, visit 60 Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BZ, call 0151 7076060 or log onto www.60hopestreet.com for more details.

Food & drink


Katie McLoughlin enjoys a taste of modernBritain at 60 Hope Street…

DELI DELIGHTS..

LAST month, Delifonseca celebrated itsfifth birthday by hosting a pop-up gardenon Stanley Street where guests enjoyedlive music, games, food stalls and analfresco licensed bar.

Following on from the success of itsbirthday bash, the acclaimed delicatessenand restaurant has a whole series offoodie events and talks lined up. The nextevent, taking place on Tuesday, July 12,will see Delifonseca welcome Tony Broughfrom Brough’s Butchers to talk about allthings meat while chomping through someof their quality products. Brough’s Butchers focuses on origin,traceability, welfare and quality. The localbutchers has won an array of accoladesincluding Fine Foods Awards and GreatTaste Awards and Delifonseca is proud tohave landed a Brough’s concession at itsDockside site.Tickets for the event – Brough’s Butchers:Quality Meat from Field to Fork – arepriced at £23 per person. For moreinformation follow Delifonseca on Twitteror Facebook, or visitwww.delifonseca.co.uk

JULY 11

Preparation time: 30 minutesSetting time: Two hoursServes: Six to eight peopleIngredients:200g ginger snap biscuit crumbs80g melted butter8g Douwe Egberts Instant coffee,diluted with 2tbsp hot water300g cream cheese370ml whipped cream60g caster sugar5 lumps stem ginger4 leaves gelatine8-inch round, loose-bottomed tin or6 small individual food ringsMethod:1. Mix together the biscuit crumbswith the melted butter. Press thecrumbs into the base of your tin orfood rings and keep in the fridge. 2. In a bowl, beat together thecream cheese and sugar until the

sugar has dissolved. Add in theDouwe Egberts coffee mixture andmix until well blended. In anotherbowl, whisk the cream until itthickens.3. Cut your gelatine leaves intosmaller pieces and place in a smallbowl with 2tbsp of cold water. Leavefor a few minutes until soft, then putthe bowl over a pan of hot water andwhisk until dissolved.4. Mix the gelatine into the coffeemixture, then gently fold the coffeemixture into the whipped creamalong with three of the lumps ofstem ginger, finely chopped. Pourthis mixture over the biscuit baseand place back in the fridge to set.5. Decorate the top of yourcheesecake by cutting the remainingtwo lumps of stem ginger into smallwedges and arranging on top.

Serve with a drizzle of ginger syrupfrom the stem ginger jar.

COFFEE AND GINGER CHEESECAKE RECIPE

TESTTaste

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25BEST OF LIVERPOOL

Homes & gardens

Sarah Hooley shows you how to add some samba-style to yourhome this summer....

BRING THE

Lime Flower Canvasfrom ASDA

JULY 11

carnivalhome

WHETHER you’ve been inspired by thescantily-clad samba dancers of Brazilica orthe bright colours of BrouhahaInternational Street Festival, it’s time to takethe carnival atmosphere home!Already taking the interior décor world by

storm, the carnival look is perfect for thesummer months. The trend is all about

injecting a bit of colour into our lives – thinkvibrant lime greens, canary yellows, hotpinks and electric blues, mixed in strongblocks of colour and complemented by boldfloral prints and shimmering golds.Here's our selection of some of the best

carnival-esque home accessories...

Edge Coffee Table, £360,from Bouf.com Nightshade bloom chenille stripe

cushion, £7, from Wilkinsons

Blue pleated top vase blue,£16.50, from Tesco

Chelsea Chair, £375, from theFrench Bedroom Company

Stripe doormat, £25,from Utility

Coloured band dining dinnerplate £1, side plate £1, bowl £1,mug £1, and 12 piece box set£10, from Matalan

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Sopwell heart mirror,£22.50, from TheChandelier & MirrorCompany Ltd

Turquoise table lamp, £49.50,from Marks & Spencer

Purple peacock featherprint chaise longue, £495,from Zedhead Designs

SHOWCASING so much more than bulbsand begonias, Southport Flower Showcombines all we love about the outdoorswith delicious food stalls and famousfaces.

This year, the annual show, which is inVictoria Park from August 18-21, aims tobe bigger and better with a glamorousvintage theme. Former Atomic Kitten, LizMcClarnon and TV chef Simon Rimmerare just two of the celebrities who will beshowing their support for the four-dayevent and making appearances at thisyear’s Southport Flower Show.

Liz, who’s also starring in LegallyBlonde at the Liverpool Empire on July 8-16, will be at the show on the Thursday,presenting prizes and trophies toflourishing Flower Show winners as wellas meeting visitors and enjoying some ofthe tasty treats in the Food Village.

With over 200 trade stands and aprogramme of events for all the family,from dog display teams and Caribbeanbands to jousting and even a luxurycinema in a 1960s bus, the show is set to bea hive of activity.

Well-known as a glorious celebration ofBritain’s obsession with gardening, the

Southport Flower Show now also has agrowing reputation as a festival forfoodies! Which is why Masterchef finalistStacie Stewart, known for her retrofashion and Beehive bakery, along withSimon Rimmer, will be wowing thecrowds with demonstrations in theextended Food Village.

Simon, who has run his acclaimedManchester vegetarian restaurant,Greens, for over 20 years, will cook up atreat on Saturday, August 20. In keepingwith this year’s vintage theme, Stacie willbring a dash of her distinctive retro-styleto the show by serving delicious hand-made cakes. These celebrity chefs will bejoining garden experts among the buzzingcrowds and the million blooms on display.

Set to outshine all the famous faces arethe spectacular show gardens. Created bya host of innovative designers andlandscapers using their horticulturaltalents to turn simple plots into dazzlingshowcases, the show gardens will leaveyou bursting with ideas about how totransform your own garden!

Of course, the Grand Floral Marquee isnot to be missed, it features stunningfloral displays on a massive scale withover a million blooms, fromchrysanthemums to bonsai.

A Lancashire gardener and one of thecountry’s leading tree experts, TonyKirkham will be on-hand on Thursday,August 18 to reveal the exotic secrets ofBritain’s flowerbeds.

Other star names at the show includeauthor and broadcaster Matthew Wilson.Known as the Mr Darcy of Radio 4’sGardener’s Question Time, Matthew willbe speaking about Making a Garden andwill talk about his work on the OlympicGarden, which is taking shape inStratford, London, ahead of the 2012games.

Show patrons Professor David BellamyOBE, Professor Stefan Buczacki and SirRoddy Llewellyn will also be on hand witha warm welcome and advice on makingthe most of your garden.

Those who want to celebrate the showin glamorous style, can take their pickfrom the Gala Preview evening on August17, which includes a VIP preview of theGrand Floral Marquee, or Ladies’ Day onFriday, August 19.

For further information and to ordertickets visitwww.southportflowershow.co.uk or call0844 847 1555. Advance tickets £16,children under 16 go free.


Southport Flower Show JULY 11

Fabulous food, flora and famous faces, it has to be SouthportFlower Show. Emma Thompson finds out more...

TOOLS FOR THE TRADE

IF you’re getting inspired by yourblossoming garden or all this talk of theSouthport Flower Show, there are a fewessentials you need to get you started.Whether you’re thinking of keeping a fewsimple herbs on your window sill or youneed to spruce up your family garden,some planters and secateurs are yourmust-have items. Your local garden centrewill have everything you need to keep youroutdoor space pruned to perfection, buthere’s a small selection to keep your greenfingers in check...

MARVELLOUS P

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Blooming

Square planter, £60,from Next

Rustic garden tool andglove set, £25, fromJohn Lewis

Wooden carry box, £19.99, fromwww.tch.net

Spring flowersgardening gloves, £10,from Cath Kidston

V&A Daisy gardeningtool set, £19.99, fromwww.tch.net

The ThoughtfulGardener wateringcan, £35, fromJohn Lewis

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Photo: Gareth Jones

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FACING out to the Irish Sea standselegant Southport – a modern seasidetown that has managed to maintain itsVictorian charm.

It’s fair to say that the place is theoasis in an urban sprawl – with peoplefrom neighbouring Liverpool,Manchester and Preston making trips toescape the hustle and bustle of city lifein favour of some fresh sea air and amore laid back approach to life.

But that’s not to say Southport sits onits laurels. The town is forward-thinkingand ever-evolving and offers themillennial traveller an exciting range ofattractions and facilities.

Lord Street is arguably one of thearea’s top shopping destinations. For astart, the street is a delight simply tolook at – with its mix of water features,gardens and elegant buildings said to bethe inspiration behind the tree-linedboulevards of Paris (Napoleon III is saidto have lived on the street in 1846 andtook the Lord Street concept back homewith him!) On further investigation yousoon realise that its mile of shops andrestaurants are more than fit for a king –or a lord for that matter!

Head down to the coast and you will begreeted by Southport’s gleamingpromenade and sea wall, which offer theperfect chance for a seaside stroll.

Southport Pier – the second longest inthe British Isles, measuring 3,650 feet(1,112m) – is a must-see, and a walk downto the pier head or a ride on the PierTramway is highly recommended.Waiting at the end is the Pavilion, whichhouses a cafeteria and a collection ofvintage amusement machines – whichyou can still play!

Set slightly back inland liesSouthport’s major new £23mentertainment and retail extravaganza –Ocean Plaza – which boasts a seven-screen cinema, 10-pin bowling, popularretail outlets and fast-food restaurants.

For those among you who like to getclose to nature, a trip down the coast tofabulous Formby is a must. In thesummer, the beach is heaving withtourists, which is no surprise. Withmiles of golden sands, dunes andpinewoods, Formby’s coastline is bothbeautiful and varied.

And that’s without even mentioningthe area's rich wildlife. Mention theword Formby to any nature-lover andyou can guarantee they will say one oftwo things – the Natterjack toad or thered squirrel.

Formby is one of only a few sites inthe country that boasts the Natterjacktoad – and if you take a walk throughthe dunes you may see one.

Alternatively, if squirrels are moreyour thing, then the Pinewoods at theend of elegant Victoria Road is the placeto be. Designated a National Trustreserve for the furry-creature, the woodsare a wonderful place to while away anafternoon with the family. In fact, youcould say you’d be ‘nuts’ not to pay avisit!

Formby village is the perfect place todo a spot of leisurely shopping, with itsgreat selection of stylish shops, or dipyour toe into the café culture in one ofthe many bars, cafés and restaurants –especially if the sun is cracking theflags. If a pub lunch with pals is moreyour thing, the town boasts nineboozers, as well as a number of bars forthe night-owls among you.

They may be on the doorstep, but youwill be amazed at what Southport andFormby have to offer.

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11

SOUTHPORT BOTANIC GARDENS

WITH floral displays that are nationallyapplauded, Southport Botanic Gardens is thefeather in the town's cap.Situated in the suburban village ofChurchtown, the gardens have been wowinglocals and visitors alike since their creation in1874.

The look of the place might have changedsince then but its dedication to bringing arich experience to nature-lovers hasn’t.

The gardens are home to a huge variety offlowers and trees, as well as a lake, fernery,aviary and a family-run café servinghomemade fresh food.

On-site there is also a mini-golf and playarea, making it the perfect setting for afamily day out.Botanic Gardens, Bankfield Lane,Churchtown, Southport, PR9 7NB, 01704 214 164.

CHINA BUTTERFLY CRAFT CENTREAS the summer holidays are fast approaching,Formby’s China Butterfly craft centre is theideal place to while away a few hours with thekids.

It has a wide variety of activities availableincluding a pottery painting studio, potter’swheel, jewellery making and card making.

But as you can imagine it gets very busyduring the school break so it might be wise tocall ahead and book a slot.

China Butterfly is based on Altcar Road andis easily accessible from the Formby bypass(A565), opposite Formby football club.

Oh, and things can get a little messy, so makesure you don’t wear your Sunday bests!China Butterfly, Unit 1, 105 Altcar Rd, Formby,L37 8DL, 01704 831 709.

FORMBY GOLF CLUBDEFINITELY not hidden but certainly a gem,Formby Golf Club is not only steeped in history,but a course fit for the modern-day golfer.

This splendid and beautiful course wasfounded in 1884, and is both enjoyable andchallenging.

Accuracy will pay off when you navigate thesand dunes and pine trees.Heather protects much of the rough andcaution is required whether playing off the teeor in approaching the well-protected greens.

Of course, the clubhouse is a welcome oasisand offers comfort and relaxation following adifficult round. The Pro’s shop caters for allyour golfing needs and the brand new indoorteaching area is the perfect way to step upyour game.Golf Road, Freshfield, L37 1LQ, 01704 872164, www.formbygolfclub.co.uk

HIDDEN GEMS

28

Heading over to…

Richard Lackey samples the sights and sands ofSouthport and Formby...

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"Southport Pier – the second longest in the British Isles, measuring 3,650 feet – is a must-see."

BEST OF LIVERPOOL

JULY 11Best of Southport & Formby

29

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WITH a majestic landscape that’s inspired everyone fromWilliam Wordsworth to Beatrix Potter and an abundanceof outdoor pursuits on offer, it’s easy to see why the LakeDistrict is one of the country’s most populardestinations.

Millions of tourists flock here each year to soak up thescenery, hike up the mountains, sail on one of the manylakes and explore the myriad of quirky shops and tearooms in the region. Yet, despite this picturesque gembeing just down the road – I’ve never been.

Partly that’s down to the fact I hate all forms ofoutdoor activities. Sporty I am not and spending myholidays walking up a hill is not my idea of fun. But,with time short and a mother and daughter weekendaway to be fitted in between other commitments, theproximity of the Lake District appealed.

With some much-needed pampering planned for ourweekend away, mum and I chose to stay in ArmathwaiteHall Country House Hotel & Spa, a luxurious four-starhotel nestled in 400 acres of secluded splendour nearBassenthwaite Lake.

Armathwaite Hall is an historic stately home, and, aswe approached the imposing building via a long andwinding driveway, it was hard not to be impressed by thegrandeur and beauty of the place. Indeed, with its woodpanelling, open fireplaces and period detailing,Armathwaite Hall looks as if it has been plucked straightfrom the pages of a Jane Austen novel.

Staying in one of the suites, our room was the heightof stately home luxury and, as well as a lavish bathroomwith a huge roll-top bath and even an integrated TV inthe wall, it had a view over the gardens and woodland toBassenthwaite Lake.

After familiarising ourselves with the suite’s facilities,we headed to the hotel’s lounge, where we indulged witha cream tea at a table looking over rolling lawns down toBassenthwaite Lake. With home-made fruit sconesserved warm with lashings of clotted cream, butter andjam, it was an afternoon tea befitting our elegantsurroundings. Refreshed and with a mountain of sconesto work off, we spent the afternoon strolling throughArmathwaite’s extensive grounds, which include formalgardens, woodland and deer park.

Returning to our suite full of country air, we quicklychanged before heading to the bar for a pre-dinnercocktail.

The award-winning hotel has garnered much acclaimfor its food and, after dining in Armathwaite’s Lake Viewrestaurant, it’s not hard to see why. The sommelierhelped us to select a crisp, French white to accompanyour five-course-feast and, from the moment we arriveduntil the moment we left, the service was nothing shortof exemplary.

Our gastronomic treat began with an amuse bouche ofsweet potato and coconut soup served in dainty cups andsaucers with an array of freshly baked bread rolls.

With our palates suitably warmed up, we moved on tostarters. I opted for a ham hock terrine, which waswonderfully rich in flavour and came with peas, saladgarnish, toasted sourdough bread and a tangy mustardvinaigrette.

Mum chose a smoked salmon panna cotta, which was afeast for the eyes and tastebuds. Served in a cup, thesmoked salmon panna cotta came with a refreshingcucumber gazpacho in a shot glass.

A strawberry sorbet followed the starters, which wasrefreshing but perhaps a tad too sweet to work as a palatecleanser. For mains I enjoyed cod loin with a scallopadorning the top, all nestled on a bed of fresh peas,chopped sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, anchovies andplump gnocchi. It was divine and, despite not being a lover of anchovies,

they lent a saltiness to the dish which perfectly balancedall the flavours. Mum, meanwhile, had a beautifullycreamy seafood dish which was packed with meaty

scallops, juicy king prawns and other seafood. For dessert, the choice was excellent and, after much

deliberating, we both plumped for chocolate fondant,which was baked to perfection – crisp on the outside andgorgeously gooey inside.

The next day we decided to check out the spa and, afterhitting the state-of-the-art gym for an hour or two (haveto work off all that delicious but very calorific foodsomehow!), I enjoyed a Comfort Touch Full BodyMassage.

Designed to re-energise the body and alleviate stressand tension, the top-to-toe massage featured warm,lemon-scented oil and lasted for an entire blissful hour.The luxurious massage left me with a deep sense ofrelaxation, a sense which only heightened when I was ledto the post-treatment tranquility room, where thetherapist tucked me into a day-bed, wrapped me in aduvet and, with a glass of water and a mountain ofmagazines at my side, I was happily cocooned for over anhour.

Pampered to our hearts’ content after a morning in thespa, that afternoon we ventured out to explore nearbyKeswick. Later we went on a long, leisurely walk throughthe pretty countryside to a charming country pub inBassenthwaite village, where we sampled some tasty pubgrub and soaked up the relaxed, friendly atmospherebefore heading back to our hotel for the night.

The next day, we breakfasted in the Lake ViewRestaurant then hit the spa for a full day of mother-and-daughter pampering before we had to check out. Mumindulged with a facial, which left her skin glowing, andwe both made the most of the spa’s extensive facilities,which include a fantastic outdoor hot tub, a 16m indoorinfinity pool, hydrotherapy pool with swan-neck shower,sauna, steam room, heat experience showers and anaroma room.

We thoroughly enjoyed our weekend break and, withits award-winning combination of stately home opulence,gourmet food and sumptuous spa facilities, ArmathwaiteHall Country House Hotel & Spa is a haven of indulgencein the heart of the picturesque Lake District.

Visit Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel andSpa, Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RE, call 017687 76551 or log ontowww.armathwaite-hall.com for more information.


Travel JULY 11

Katie McLoughlin discovers the Lake District isn’t justfor outdoorsy types...

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