http://www.champnews.com All the latest Maghull news from Champion Newspapers en-uk Copyright 2007 Champion Media Group. All Rights Reserved http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6675 Lydiate-based Too Friendly Theatre Company have been nominated in this year's National Operatic and Dramatic Association awards for their production of Victor Hugo's Les Miserables. Andrea Culkin has been nominated for Best Supporting Actress, Helen Haygarth for Best Actress and Cliff Gillies is nominated for Best Actor and Best Staging while the production itself has also been nominated for Best Play. But that is not all, as both Sue Thomas and Cliff Gillies have been nominated in the Best Mortal In A Pantomime category for All Souls production of Cinderella. The news about the awards, held in August, has come during the last few weeks of rehearsals for the company's next production, Peter Gordon's Murdered To Death. The play is a hilarious spoof of the best of the Agatha Christie traditions, a whodunnitt with twists, turns, confusion and side-splitting antics. Set in a country manor house in the glorious 1930s, the colourful cast of characters include Bunting the Butler; Colonel Charles Craddock with the prerequisite stiff upper lip, the bumbling local inspector and his Constable; and a well-meaning local sleuth Miss Maple who seems to attract murder wherever she goes. Add to this a high society debutante, a shady French art dealer and the rest, and you have the perfect recipe for fantastic fun, naughty jokes and hysterical happenings. Described by the BBC as Quite simply one of the funniest plays we ever read the show is going to be one not to miss and we recommend ordering your tickets soon before they run out! The show is on at Southport's Little Theatre June 12th  14th 2008. Tickets are £7.50 and advance ticket sales are available from 01704 560229. More information about the production can be found on www.toofriendlytheatre.com 4/30/2008 3:08:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6671 A NEW Sefton Council strategy has outlined that over £6million will be required to revamp Southport’s parks. The Draft Parks and Greenspace Asset Management Strategy has highlighted Bedford Park, Hesketh Park, Liverpool Road Rec and Meols Park as top priority sites until 2010 to 2011. An estimated total of £6,175,000 investment will need to be found. 4/29/2008 8:24:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6661 Senior council officers are under pressure after the Local Government Ombudsman found they acted unlawfully. Sefton Council wrongly accused one elderly pensioner of having a criminal record and locked another man out of his allotment for over eight weeks. Since the initial investigation, allegations of theft have been made against the council in relation to thousands of pounds worth of supplies. Anne Seex, The Local Government Ombudsman, told The Champion her office might take further action against Sefton Council. She said: "Sefton Council officers didn't act lawfully when dealing with these two gentlemen. "They need to come to a settlement with the gentlemen, if they don't or I'm not satisfied I can then issue another report. "If I issue a public report then there will have to be a debate in a full council meeting." A council spokesman did not want to discuss the unlawful activity but did say the Ombudsman's report will be fully investigated. She said: "We are aware of the Local Government Ombudsman's report, this is due to be discussed at a cabinet meeting in May." Allotment holder Jim Dolan says the council had been trying to force him off the land for over three years. He said: "An elderly allotment holder was threatened and intimidated by another and instead of kicking him off, a senior council officer put him in charge of the site. "The council have done everything to try and remove us from the site, the same senior council officer refused to accept my rent and locked me out of the site. "Council officers authorised the seizure of over £3,000 of supplies from an elderly gentleman who has now died, the ombudsman told me the council have abused their authority. "It's elderly pensioners who tend the allotment and it's a disgrace they have been the target of threats and intimidation," he added. The council did not comply with The Small Holdings and Allotments Act 1908, Allotments Act 1922 and Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. Council officers have until July to pay compensation and reach a settlement with the allotment holders. By Andrew Ashcroft 4/24/2008 7:24:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6646 Sefton Council has written off £755,000 of unpaid council tax. Most of the money is believed to be from people who have left properties without paying the tax and cannot be traced. A spokesman for Sefton Council wouldn't confirm why the debts were cancelled but did say they pursued tax evaders rigorously. The spokesman said: "Our overall recovery rate for unpaid Council Tax bills exceeds 99% and we will always endeavour to collect them. "This includes the use of bailiffs and in appropriate cases, bankruptcy proceedings against non payers," he added. The Taxpayers Alliance, a tax campaign group, says councils need to think of the general public. A spokesman said: "Pensioners in some areas of the country are being sent to jail for not being able to pay relatively small amounts. "It is shocking that councils are happy to write off thousands of pounds. "Council tax is putting an unsustainable burden on ordinary families, and allowing this hole in the budget to continue adds to that burden," he added. By Andrew Ashcroft 4/17/2008 7:50:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6645 The Champion's Natasha Robson has been named Young Journalist of the Year. At the O2 Media Awards last week, Natasha beat off a host of hopefuls to take the coveted trophy. The cream of the press and media industry gathered together for the lavish ceremony at O2's regional headquarters in Preston Brook, Cheshire, where Natasha accepted the award. Presenting the trophy, the judges said: "In an age of froth and spin, Natasha is a genuine chronicler. "Full of passion for truth, energy to see things through, fearlessness in the face of opposition, optimism that she can make a difference, she is truly the underdogÕs champion." The Champion's group editor Rob Doyle commented: "This is a well-deserved honour for a supremely talented journalist. We are all so proud of Natasha and thrilled by her success." 4/17/2008 7:48:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6640 A gym owner at the centre of a body odour dispute has defended his decision to bar a member. Bill Martin, owner of The New Cheshire Lines in Maghull, stopped member Andy Heaton from entering after a row over complaints that he smelt. Mr Heatman, who attended the gym for almost four years, previously told The Champion of his humiliation as he was told by staff that other members had complained he had bad body odour. He said: "My reply to this was that it is a gym, the whole nature of the place makes you sweat. "Having been a nurse for the past 23 years and educating my patients in basic personal and environmental hygiene, I feel extremely embarrassed and humiliated." However, Mr Martin claimed Mr Heatman had distorted the truth, and added that dozens of gym members had signed a petition backing his expulsion. Mr Martin told Champnews.com: "On the 10th March 2008 after many complaints from members, Mr Andy Heatman was asked, very discreetly and professionally to accompany Dave Nichols, the gym manager, into his office for a quiet chat, where they discussed Mr Heatman's body odour problem, and not his sweating as he claims. "At no time were we trying to humiliate him, as we are conscious of this being a very delicate matter." Describing Mr Heatman's reports on Champnews.com as "lies", Mr Martin then barred him from the gym, saying: "I stopped him and advised him that because of the way he had acted, telling the newspapers a pack of complete lies and a fabricated story, that I was sorry but I could not let him enter the gym. "He began to shout 'Am I barred' to which I replied ' you have just barred yourself." Having collected a list of over 60 signatures from other members who had complained about Mr Heatman, he added: "I am sorry that this matter has taken this line but as the owner of The New Cheshire Lines Health Club I Feel my duty has got to be to my members who have signed a petition to stand up to the lies and deceitful remarks made by Mr Heatman." Mr Heatman has now moved to a new gym where he has not received any complaints, claiming: "They just laughed when I told them about it all. "It's a better gym anyway." By Natasha Young 4/16/2008 7:41:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6629 Maghull's long-awaited new leisure centre and library is set to get the green light. A planning application has been made for the £8 million development based on the KGV playing fields land next to Maghull Town Hall. The complex will include a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, a learner pool, gym and sauna. There will be a modern-style library and large parking area. Some have raised concerns over the loss of playing fields, although these have failed to develop into a significant protest. Cllr Tony Robertson said: "I'm not aware of any serious problems with the application." The planning application will shortly go before Sefton's planning committee and a decision could be made as early as next week. Cllr Robertson added: "This is the proudest achievement of my career because we have been campaigning for it for so long, for 15 years or more. "It is also a remarkable achievement for all my colleagues at the three wards and the parish councils," he added. Cllr Robertson said he is looking forward to using the swimming pool but probably wouldn't be visiting the fitness suite. A council spokesman said: "This will be Sefton's first purpose-built 'integrated' leisure facility." The development will be attached to the town hall via a curved link corridor. The site will also feature green areas and landscaping. By Andrew Ashcroft 4/9/2008 7:54:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6619 CHANGES in stray dog legislation will councils solely responsible for lost or unwanted dogs. Section 68 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 came into effect on Sunday (April 6) meaning stray dogs can no longer be taken to police stations. And The Dog Trust dog welfare charity fear that strays will be left wandering the streets due to "vague wording" of the guidance on the new law. The law states that "where practicable" authorities must provide at least one place where dogs can be taken round the clock. The Dog Trust is worried that councils could claim that caring for every stray dog is not practicable. Veterinary Director Chris Laurence said: "We are concerned that stray dogs may be left wandering the streets during times when dog wardens are not available, such as weekends." David Tilleray, West Lancashire District Council's Community Services boss did little to allay these fears, saying that the new law does not "oblige the Council to provide a search and collect service outside of normal office hours... only dogs that are being held by people finding them will be collected." West Lancs council will not be providing somewhere that residents can take stray dogs 24 hours a day. However Mr Tilleray did say they were taking steps to ensure that a stray dog service will be available seven days a week, including Bank Holidays. "By working with Leigh Dogs and Cats Home, the Council has been able to extend its current stray dog service to offer those who find a stray dog an improved out-of-hours service," he said. "Previously, any person who found a stray dog out of office hours would either have to take care of it or take it to Ormskirk or Skelmersdale Police Stations, which was not always convenient, particularly for those residing in the northern parts of the District. Under the new arrangements, an effective door-to-door service will be provided." Anyone who has found and holds a stray dog can call the West Lancs Council's main switchboard on 01695 577177 to arrange collection. Calls can be received up to 9pm in the evening on weekdays and between 8am-7pm at weekends and Bank Holidays. Sefton Council were unable to comment. 4/4/2008 6:02:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6578 Gym members have been kicking up a stink in Maghull, complaining that a fellow fitness fan smelt of sweat during his workout. Nurse Andy Heatman, a member at Cheshire Lines gym for almost four years, was taken into the office by an instructor to be notified of the complaints. Upset by the incident, he told The Champion: "The instruc-tor said the other members had made a complaint about my body odour. "My reply to this was that it is a gym, the whole nature of the place makes you sweat when you have a workout. "Having been a nurse for the past 23 years and educating my patients in basic personal and environmental hygiene, I feel extremely embarrassed and humiliated." With staff at the gym claiming that other members had threatened to confront Mr Heatman about the issue if they didn't, the gym's owner, Bill Martin, said: "We did everything humanly possible to avoid humiliating him. "We have standards here as well as any other gym has standards." Mr Heatman had enjoyed being a member of the gym as it was conveniently near to his home, however he looked at alternative places for his workouts after the issue was raised, saying: "When I went to Fitness First it took over an hour to get there with the traffic and everything." Continuing to go to Cheshire Lines for his usual sessions after the meeting with the instructor had occurred, Mr Heatman arrived several days later to find the owner waiting in the foyer to ban him. "He said 'you are not welcome here'," Mr Heatman claimed. "There were other people in the foyer so it was just another embarrassment." By Natasha Young 3/20/2008 9:43:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6562 A report has slammed local authority pension schemes as "over-generous and unaffordable". The Taxpayers' Alliance - a pressure group that campaigns for a 'low tax society' - compiled the study that shows council pension contributions have risen 13% in a year to more than £10 million per local authority. They called the increase "worrying" and said the trend is unsustainable. They have criticised the Local Government Pension Scheme, that allows many employees to retire early with the benefits of a final-year salary. This could be "stopped tomorrow" and individual councils have failed to lobby for change, the report added. Andrew Allum, Chairman of the Taxpayers' Alliance, said: "It's unacceptable that ordinary families and pensioners who struggle to pay inflated council tax bills see so much of their money spent on gold-plated council pensions that have all but disappeared in the wider economy. With pension costs jumping 13% in one year, the problem is clearly getting worse and requires urgent attention. Councils should start correcting their own behaviour immediately, and the Government must face down union pressure and reform the outdated local government pensions scheme as soon as possible." The report lists Sefton Council's pension contributions for 2006-07 to be £18,036,000 - a rise of 9.3% from 2005-06. West Lancashire District Councils' contributions were £2,631,000, the report said, an increase of 7.2% from the previous year. Responding to the Taxpayers' Alliance report, John Ransford, Deputy Chief executive of the Local Government Association, a cross party organisation that represents councils in England, said: "The Taxpayers' Alliance appears to be condemning lollipop ladies, bin men, street cleaners and librarians for getting a pension worthy of the years of service they have given helping local people. Councils provide more than 800 different services for local residents and these cannot be delivered by robots or machines. "The Local Government Pension Scheme recently underwent a radical overhaul, which provides greater value for money to the taxpayer while at the same time recognising the invaluable work that council staff do to make the lives of local people better. "According to the Treasury, councils are the most efficient and effective part of the public sector and the independent Audit Commission has recently said that councils are delivering better services than ever before." A West Lancs District Council spokesman said they had ceased the practice of awarding added years. By Natasha Robson   Their pension figures contained in the report were correct, he added. 3/13/2008 8:36:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6552 PEOPLE are becoming  concerned about recycling plastic bottles — and the problem is boiling over at the ‘banks’ in Maghull’s Somerfield supermarket car park which are full and overflowing. Now local councillors are pressing Sefton Council to take action and now Sefton’s Recycling Officer, Clair Melser, has had a meeting with the owners of the car park, London and Cambridge Properties. Locally, the Maghull Shipping Centre Working Party and the site owners are to get together later this month (March) to try to iron out a number of issues associated with the shops and car park — issues ranging from recycling capacity problems to litter control, car park management and the environ-mental improvements sponsored by the Working Party. Leader of Maghull Town Council, cllr Tony Robertson, told the Champion:  “It is clear that the recycling facilities at Somerfield are well beyond capacity. This is the only plastic bottle recycling facility in the East Parishes and is under great pressure.” And he attacked the Waste Disposal Authority.  “They could help if they would get a move on with their long talked about plan  to provide such recycling at Sefton Meadows Waste Reception Centre — but unfortunately I fear more delays there,” he said. Cllr Robertson said the Council wants to work closely with London and Cambridge Properties and discuss a wide range of issues. “It is in all our interests for their part of the shopping centre to be successful,” he said.  “Sadly, because of the lack of capacity the area around the recycling skips has become a terrible mess and  Somerfield really do need to control litter that escapes from their back service yard area as well.  “The hedge bottom onto Northway is a disgrace!” 3/10/2008 3:59:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6544 West Tower Country House Hotel and The Swan in Aughton have been bought by Simon Matthews-Williams, chairman of Sanguine Hospitality and Paul Bolton of Monetier. The two businesses were sold by Formby millionaire Mike McComb for an undisclosed sum. John Allanson, managing director of the northern business commented: "We are delighted, this has increased our portfolio in the North of England to five venues within the past 12 months." The new owners currently run Hoole Hall, Chester. Co-owner Mr Matthews-Williams said: "Sanguine are becoming a major provider within the hotel and leisure sector and will be announcing further acquisitions in the South of England later this year." Paul Bolton added: "We are thrilled to have acquired these two excellent venues." The deal does not affect other properties under the ownership of Mr McComb, including the Scarisbrick Arms in Downholland and the Carlton Hotel in Southport. Earlier this year Mr McComb told The Champion he planned on bringing the Scarisbrick back as a fine-dining pub. By Henry James   3/6/2008 8:53:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6539 A 96-YEAR-old woman died in a fire at her home. The woman, who has not been named, was found dead in her living room, where the fire started. Fire crews were called to the house on Pilling Lane, Lydiate, just before 1pm on Monday March 3. Watch manager Peter Owens, who attended the blaze, said the lady was believed to have died from smoke inhalation. "It was a slow-burning fire and when we arrived there was no fire to extinguish," he told The Champion. "Initial investigations point to a possible electrical fault.  The fire was not extensive but there was a great deal of smoke damage to the property." Police and ambulances were also called to the house. An eyewitness said: "There were emergency vehicles everywhere.  You could tell it was something serious." A Merseyside Police spokesman confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances to the incident and they were not investigating. Two fire crews attended the scene for around two hours. The death has been referred to the coroner's office. 3/6/2008 7:31:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6524 Sefton householders face a 4.06% increase in council tax, it was decided last night (Thursday). All three political parties on the local authority agreed the rise which means someone who lives in a Band D property will pay £1,202 per year as from April. The increase imposed by Sefton Council is 3.95% but rises to 4.06% when the costs of authorities such as the fire and police are added to the bill. Liberal Democrat council leader Tony Robertson said: "This is another landmark for the council – the second year in succession that all three parties have united to agree a joint budget. It shows that, with sensible goodwill on all sides, Sefton councillors can work together in partnership. "With my colleagues I am determined above all to make the council more efficient. The independent watchdog, the Audit Commission, has just reported that Sefton ‘achieves good value for money’ with services that are below average cost." Cllr Robertson added: "We must be better still. The council owes this to so many residents, especially pensioners and families struggling to make ends meet who find council tax so hard to find. "Quite rightly, they resent this wretched tax because it is unfairly based only on property and not your ability to pay." 2/29/2008 2:30:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6508 A psychiatric nursing assistant with an aversion to public transport claimed almost £60,000 in taxi fares from the state. John Jones was entitled to the money under the Access to Work scheme because of panic attacks but he had more than doubled the true number of journeys he made, a court heard on Monday. For four years he submitted bogus taxi receipts and forged a colleague's signature on his claim forms but eventually his fraud came to light. Liverpool Crown Court heard that the prosecution did not deny that 46-year-old Jones, who suffers from claustrophobia and agrophobia, has a genuine medical condition and was eligible to help with taxi fares. But £33,223 of the money he received had been fraudulently obtained, said Kevin Slack, prosecuting. He began working as a psychiatric nursing assistant in August 2001 for Merseycare NHS Trust and was based at Rathbone Hospital in Wavertree, Liverpool. "The following April he began claiming for Access to Work funding which is designed to help people with disabilities find work. He claimed to suffer panic attacks when using public transport and required taxis," said Mr Slack. His claim was approved and he had submit taxi receipts and have his claim form signed by a colleague confirmed he had been working.  Twice-married Jones alleged he was working seven days a week though he never worked more than five a week. In January 2005 he was swopped to working at the Ashworth high security hospital in Maghull and his claims continued on the basis he was still working seven days a week but by now he was only working three days a week. The journey to work from his home, then in Beechtrees, Digmoor, Skelmersdale, to Ashworth was shorter than to the Rathbone but he still claimed the same amount. The fraud came to light in March 2006, which was the same month he went on sick leave and confessed to a colleague that he had forged another colleague's signature on the claim forms. When eventually interviewed Jones admitted obtaining the money by deception in order to support his children. Jones, of Wortley Road, Fazakerley, admitted 32 offences of false accounting and had 24 similar offences taken into consideration involving a total of £59,000. The court heard that he is terrified of being locked in a prison cell and recognises he needs help for his fear of enclosed places. He has had mental health problems since the age of 21, is addicted to Diazapam and a psychiatrist has concluded that he needs help, said his  barrister, Sarah Phelan. She said that Jones, who has a partner, now lives with his parents, helping his mother look after his father who has had a stroke. He has a difficult relationship with them, his two ex-wives and the children of his first marriage. He was placed under increasing pressure to help those children financially and found himself in debt and feeling trapped, said Miss Phelan. He has a good relationship with the two children of his second marriage and is working as a care assistant for a Lydiate firm earning £500 a week. Judge David Swift adjourned sentence on Jones until next  month to enable the probation service to consider the psychiatric report prepared on Jones.  He was further remanded on bail. 2/25/2008 12:18:00 PM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6499 Sefton's chief executive could attend the next Southport Area Committee, in response to complaints that Liberal Democrat councillors 'bullied' Tory Cllr Brenda Porter at the last meeting. The council's Conservative Group Leader, Paula Parry, said Mr Haywood hoped to sit in at the March meeting. "He should go because it wouldn't happen then, but it shouldn't happen anyway," Cllr Parry told The Champion. "The last meeting was just awful.  A couple of Lib Dem councillors were standing up and shouting.  They are just so rude to Brenda - they are like bully boys and she does not deserve that.  It is just a couple of them making a show of themselves." Letters of complaint to Sefton's legal department accused Birkdale cllrs Simon Shaw and Iain Brodie-Brown of being "unprofessional" at the last meeting at Southport Town Hall. An observer at the meeting told The Champion: "They were extremely animated and playing to the crowd." Cllr Porter, the Conservative parliamentary candidate for Southport said she had not made a complaint but understood that others had. She said: "If they want to get personal that is up to them, but that is not my scene.  I just want to get on and do a good job.  They obviously have some concerns about me or they would not be acting the way they are." Cllr Simon Shaw said he had every right to question Cllr Porter, who is the only Southport Conservative cabinet member. "She is paid £25,000 a year to be in the cabinet and if she really thinks she does not need to explain the way she has voted at meetings of the cabinet then perhaps she needs to consider whether she really wants to be in the cabinet," he said. "Paula Parry has attended the last two Southport Area Committee meetings and we in the Lib Dem Group had always assumed this was because she was keeping an eye on Cllr David Pearson, who she unceremoniously sacked from all his committees.  But it would seem she has been there for other reasons." Committee chair, Lib Dem Cllr Maureen Fearn, said she did not believe there was any bullying. "Questions were asked and explanations were not given so the question was repeated," she said. "It is a storm in a teacup." No disciplinary action has been taken against cllrs Shaw and Brodie-Brown. Cllr Brodie-Brown was unavailable for comment. By Natasha Robson What do you think?  Write to us HERE. 2/21/2008 7:28:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6492 Premiership star and former Skem resident Leon Osman has said new Astroturf pitches at Banks Leisure Centre are so good he would use them himself if he lived nearer. Leon was given the opportunity to test the pitches at the unveiling last Thursday (February 7). And the Everton midfielder, a product of the Skem junior league, was wholly enthusiastic about the effect it will have on kids in the area. He said: "The pitches look great and I can see that the money has been well spent. I'm sure it will help to keep the kids off the streets and will get them interested in sport. I'd encourage people to try out the new facilities - If I lived closer I'd definitely use them myself!" Work started last October to overhaul the old pitches and replace them with the more modern Astroturf surfaces. The project also included new internal drainage, floodlighting, goal posts and surrounding fences for security. They were unveiled to customers just before Christmas.  Bill Lloyd, Chairman of the West Lancashire Community Leisure Trust, said: "We unveiled the new pitches to our customers in December and they have been delighted with the new facilities so we thought it would be a great idea to get a well-known premiership player down to test the new facilities." To find out more about what's on at sports centres, log onto www.westlancsdc.gov.uk/sportscentres or  www.westlancsleisure.com. By Peter Swift       2/15/2008 6:57:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6489 This week The Champion's Stop The Gravy Train campaign looks at the pay of local authorities' management. A new study by the Taxpayers Alliance - a pressure group that campaigns for a 'low tax society' - reveals the average local authority is employing more than nine times as many people on £50,000-plus packages as 10 years ago - 66 people in 2006-07 compared with 20 people in 2001-02 and 7 people in 1996-97. Nationwide, they say these wages count for £1 out of every £11 of council tax. Matthew Elliott, Chief Executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: "With council tax doubling in the past decade, it's extremely disappointing that town halls have chosen to hire a new class of middle managers, many of whom are being paid more than MPs. Local authorities should study these findings carefully to see where savings can be made, instead of using their half billion pound PR machine to obscure their finances from taxpayers." The figures in the report are from councils' annual accounts, obtained under the Freedom of Information Act. It reveals that in 2006-07 Sefton Council employed 65 staff on packages of £50,000 and above - one less than the national average - at a total cost of £4,375,000.  Figures from previous years were not available to make a comparison. This cost worked out at £15.77 per head of the Sefton population. Sefton Council refused to comment on the study. For West Lancashire District Council the number of staff on wages of £50,000 and above has risen, from six in 1996-97 to 10 in 2001-02, dropping to nine for 2006-07. This totaled £655,000 for the last financial year, working out at £5.97 per head of the West Lancs population. A spokesman for West Lancs District Council said: "The Council is not only prides itself on being recognised as excellent but it also prides itself on being efficient and giving value for money to the taxpayer as a top priority. "Over the last few years the Chief Executive Bill Taylor has significantly reduced management numbers, first by sweeping away an entire tier of directors and then by moving to a flat divisional management structure. "Gradually, over time as some of these managers have left to retire or move on to employment elsewhere, we have striven, wherever possible not to fill the posts and have asked the remaining managers to take on ever greater workloads. "The Audit Commission rates West Lancashire District Council's performance and value for money extremely highly. "The total number of managers who earn £50,000 and above at West Lancashire is 12 and this compares favourably with organisations of a similar size. "Unlike the private sector, the salaries of the chief executive and all the executive managers for West Lancashire are already on public record and are freely available." By Natasha Robson What do you think?  Write to us HERE.   2/14/2008 6:55:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6487 Formby residents could face a rise in council tax if the value of their homes has increased. The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, along with conservatories, parking spaces, special features and the area, layout and style, may all be considered as key focus points in plans for re-evaluation tax hikes. The increases could see residential areas bumped up to the next highest tax band if a significant number of the area's properties have gone up in value. The Champion understands that while a previous call for all houses to be re-evaluated was shelved due to a public outcry against the move, one estate agent company, Rightmove Plc, has now signed a deal to pass on property details to HM Revenue and Customs, and homeowners are currently unsuspecting. Conservative Councillor Martyn Barber stated: "People selling their home are not informed that information given to their estate agent, which is then passed to internet portal Rightmove Plc, is in turn passed on to the Government's tax inspectors." Cllr Debi Jones, Conservative prospective MP for Formby, added: "Residents across Formby will be alarmed that detailed information on 9 out of 10 house sales and rentals is being passed secretly from estate agents to tax collectors, without public consent." By Natasha Young What do you think?  Write to us HERE. 2/14/2008 6:47:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6486 Junior Football Craven Minor Under 9 Birkdale 1 Ormskirk 0   This was a game of few clear chances between two sides that gave everything. Birkdale started the better and took the lead in the first half. The second half was end to end with Ormskirk pushing for an equaliser and Birkdale playing counterattack. This left Man of the Match Adam Jones in the Ormskirk goal exposed, but he was brave and kept Ormskirk in it. If there is a better keeper in the league, I haven't seen him. Jamie Barnes kept driving his team forward but Birkdale were tight at the back.   Under 9 Dynamo Rangers 6 Toby Celtic 0 In the first five minutes of this match Rangers hit the bar, the post, and had the Toby keeper Callum making some great saves, (was it going to be one of those days). Joel who covered every inch of grass on the pitch flighted a lovely corner which Danny cushioned his header brilliantly into the net. This then set the tone for Rangers who piled on the pressure. Danny then got his second and his strike partner Jake bagged a brace to make it 4 – 0. The formation was then changed with defenders stepping up into attack, and keeper Brad playing in mid-field and Sam taking control between the sticks. James, Kyle and Joel all went close, but Callum in Toby's net stood in their way. Jordan found himself one on one with the keeper and slotted home. Cooley Thomas commanded the back and centre as usual, and was in the right place when Jake hit the post and the rebound fell at his feet for Thomas to slot home the sixth and final goal of the game. This was a good match played in good spirit by both teams with good refereeing thrown in. MoM Joel Wood, Parents MoM Brad.   Under 10 Dynamo Rangers Madrid 1 The Academy FC 8 The Academy were firing on all cylinders again, scoring from all angles against Madrid who was put on the back foot from the start. Callan, Spencer, Shaun B and Sean K all deserve a mention for outstanding football performances. Final score 8-1 win for the Academy. MoM Academy Sean Killeen, MoM Madrid - Curtis   Under 12 Dynamo Rangers 5 Skem Utd 0 A fantastic all round performance from Dynamo with Connor scoring two goals, getting him the Ref’s Man of the Match. Ryan Hale scored one from a lovely cross, as did Calvin Martin gaining him man MoM. Bradley missed a penalty, but the goal keeper should have been red carded as he took one of the forwards out and then come off his line challenging the penalty taker. However, Bradley had the last laugh with scoring a goal. An all round great performance, with all the lads deserving MoM.   West Lancs Girls League. Under 12 Dynamo Rangers 2 Skem Athletic 1 Dynamo had billed this derby game as their cup final, even though they are still in a semi final, this was the game. Dynamo had to prove that it wasn't luck last time and Skem needed to balance the score. The result of this game would change the places on the league, so everything was at stake. The game started at an exciting pace, and very quickly Skem scored from a corner, Skem’s crowd went wild. Dynamo did not allow this to distract them from their mission. Dynamo made several attacks, although the ball just went wide. But it was only a matter of time as Jade (C), Amy, Lauren Mc, Lauren (sub), Megan (sub) Sam and Shanice were making passes and moves that resulted in many attacks on their goal, so it was no surprise when Shanice put it in the back of the net, a superb goal. This time it was Dynamo’s crowd turn to go wild, the score was even. The girls from both sides played their hearts out each team wanting that decisive goal. Dynamo’s defence never faltered after their initial wake up call, and Faye (MoM), Rachael, Carrina battled hard against tough and determined opposition, but closed them down time after time. The odd time Skem got through they had to face Lydia in goal and she was not allowing another ball to get pass.    Cup game Under 12 Skem Dynamo 4 Northwest Girls 0 The game started fast with the pitch heavy going. North West girls were doing most of the defending due to Dynamo pressing hard on their defence. Skem managed to break down their defence, and a goal was scored from Lauren Mack after a great cross from Sammy Maginn. Within five minutes of the first goal, a carbon copy was scored by Dynamo, and it was two-nil. With big Lauren and Megan winning the ball in midfield and not giving much away. The game continued with Skem keeping possession in the North West girls half, where Skem were winning corner after corner. Skem possession paid off with Jade getting the ball across to Shanise, and she slotted home a great goal. The second half started with Skem controlling most of the possession and NWG having to defend again. Skem then broke free through Faye, Rachael and Carrina who had been playing fantastic in the 1st half and now they had carried it over into the 2nd half. All of the hard work paid off when Jade slotted home a fine goal. NW girls heads never dropped and they started to play some good football and forced Lydia Ashton to make the save of the season. MoM for Skem was Lauren Mack.   2/14/2008 6:45:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6479 Two men in Superman costumes tried to sell bogus charity raffle tickets to Maghull businesses. A member of staff at a company on Liverpool Road South became suspicious and when he checked the address on the tickets and the charity, he found they were both fake. The men left on foot but police believe they have had a vehicle as there was no sign of them when officers arrived. The incident happened on Thursday February 7 2008.  A police spokesperson said: "We would like to remind the public if they are approached on the street to always check identification to see if the person is who they claim to be, or check with the charity. If you are suspicious ring the police as this member of the public did." Anyone with information should contact Maghull police on 0151 7773740 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. By Natasha Young What do you think? Let us know at editorial@champnews.com 2/13/2008 5:37:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6471 A LIBERAL Democrat Euro MP has come under fire after visiting Cyprus to encourage locals to take “direct action” against their British control. North West MEP Chris Davies visited the Mediterranean island last week, where he says around 8,000 villagers are under British military rule without elected representation. Chair of the Normandy Veterans Association and Southport Conservative Association, Phil King said he was “speechless” at Mr Davies’ actions. “This can’t be true,” he said. “What is all this about?  I thought Mr Davies was representing the North West of England rather than Cyprus and I am at a loss to think what he is doing over there. “Without any doubt he has a duty to back our troops.  It is just ridiculous, I have never known anything like it.  The Cypriots can look after themselves extremely well and I would have thought Mr Davies had more important things back in the North West than flying to the Mediterranean.” Chris Davies claims there would be “mass protests” if the conditions in Cyprus existed in the UK. He said: “Cypriot villagers should consider non-violent civil resistance in a bid to draw attention to the current arrangements.” But fellow North West Euro MP John Whittaker accused Mr Davies of “interfering”. “Why on earth is Chris Davies meddling in affairs that have nothing to do with him?” UK Independence Party member Mr Whittaker asked. “Is he intending to interfere in situations outside his remit whenever he travels to far flung parts of the world?  He may have a valid point but it is nothing to do with him as a Euro MP.” Two British Sovereign Base Areas, which cover 98 square miles, enable the UK to maintain a permanent military presence at a “strategic point” in the Eastern Mediterranean.  The British presence in Cyprus was established by a treaty in 1960. Mr Davies hoped to meet with a British representative on the island but a UK Defence Minister said it would “not be appropriate” for an MEP to meet with the Administrator of the Sovereign Base Areas at the present time. 2/12/2008 8:08:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6458 SEFTON Council  has been highlighted as one of the best authorities in the country. In a new report from the Audit Commission, Sefton had moved from a three-star rating in 2006 to the top four-star ‘excellent’ rating, making it the only North West council to improve. The Comprehensive Performance Assessment, which inspects all areas of a council’s performance, has applauded Sefton in a number of areas. They include its knowledge of local communities, providing good value for money, promoting healthy living, providing a cleaner environment, improving exam results and reducing bullying in schools, improving services for the elderly living at home, reducing crime, encouraging equality and providing a positive contribution for residents from leisure and cultural activities. Chief Executive of Sefton Council, Graham Haywood, spoke of how rewarding the achievement is, stating: “It is a great tribute to the fantastic amount of work we have put in, particularly over the last two or three years, where we have moved from a two-star to a four-star, which is probably one of the best improvements in the country.” However, Cllr Tony Robertson, Leader of Sefton Council, insisted that they would not become complacent. He added: “Being a four star authority is not just about wearing a badge of honour, it is proof and reassurance that we are delivering for our residents and continuing to move in the right direction. We will continue to improve and develop our services.” A series of videos highlighting Sefton’s  work,  are now available for public viewing at www.sefton.gov.uk by clicking on the four-star link. 2/8/2008 7:07:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6449 In the latest instalment of our Stop The Gravy Train campaign we look at the cost of our MPs. Parliamentary representatives have come under scrutiny this week after it was revealed Derek Conway MP used £80,000 of taxpayers' money to employ his sons, who allegedly did "little or nothing" to earn their salary. Party leaders have since said they would encourage members to say if they employed family as staff. It was announced on Monday that a "root and branch" review of members' expenses would be carried out by the Members Estimate Committee. Southport Liberal Democrat MP John Pugh employs wife Annette as his office manager and Formby's Labour MP Claire Curtis-Thomas employs husband Mike Jakub as her office manager. Mr Pugh told The Champion: "I'm as outraged as anyone by Conway. His affairs were rightly investigated and censured by the House of Commons and he may yet face police proceedings. "Sadly though the presumption that all honourable members are honourable seem to be getting replaced in a cynical world by an equally false presumption that all are dishonourable. "What we need are quick ways of identifying and preventing abuses such as independent audit. Readers of my recent Champion blog will know I have always believed in receipts for everything and separate salary figures." MPs are paid a salary of £60,675 and are entitled to expenses that are published at the end of each financial year.  These include allowances for staff, travel, stationery, postage and computer equipment. For 2006/07, Labour MP for West Lancs, Rosie Cooper, claimed the most of our local MPs. Her expenses totalled £144,358 - the 182nd highest out of all 645 members. Ms Cooper said: "I use my allowance to achieve results for the people of West Lancs and believe using the MP's allowance to communicate what I'm doing on their behalf is an important part of my duties. These allowances are available to all MPs regardless of party and do not fund political activity. I successfully campaigned against the merger of Southport and Ormskirk Hospital and meet constituents regularly at my weekly surgeries." She used her allowance to run a fully staffed constituency office and has dealt with more than 4,000 cases on behalf of constituents since May 2005, she said. She added: "I will continue to fight hard on behalf of my constituents on the issues that matter to them, an Ormskirk Bypass, good local health services, a local cemetery and a better deal overall for West Lancs." The second biggest local spender was Formby's Claire Curtis-Thomas, whose expenses came to £143,016 - 213th overall. Ms Curtis-Thomas was joint first out of all MPs for her 'additional costs' allowance at £22,110.  She was ranked 50th for her staff travel expenses of £1,732. In 2003/04 Ms Curtis-Thomas claimed the most expenses of any MP - £168,889 - and was the second highest spender the year before that. Maghull's Labour MP George Howarth's expenses came to £127,073 in the last year, putting him in 494th place. But his rail expenses were second highest in the country (£14,842) and his travel expenses 28th overall (£18,016). John Pugh was the cheapest of our local MPs last year, claiming £121,915 - 538th highest overall. MPs Ms Curtis-Thomas and Mr Howarth did not wish to comment. By Natasha Robson What do you think?  Write to us HERE. 2/7/2008 3:50:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6443 HMP Kennet held its official opening last week. The first publicly-run prison in 10 years was officially opened by Prisons Minister David Hanson on Friday February 1 2008. He said: "I am delighted to open HMP Kennet today and see the building programme progressing not only through new prisons but in additional capacity at prisons across England and Wales. "In response to Lord Carter's review in December, we announced a further 10,500 places on top of the 9,500 already confirmed. This includes up to three Titans as recommended by Lord Carter. Since 1997 the government has increased prison capacity by more than 20,000 places. "It is vital we ensure there are prison places for those serious and dangerous offenders who ought to be in prison and as can be seen here we are delivering on that commitment. But we must equally ensure that courts have tough community sentences at their disposal to deal with less serious, non-violent offenders." Kennet, a Category C men's prison in the grounds of Ashworth high security hospital, Maghull, began taking inmates six months ago and is already at its 340-prisoner capacity. Category C offenders are assessed as lacking either the skill or the desire to escape, and are considered a minimal risk to the public. It was commissioned in 2006 as part of a programme to help ease prison overcrowding across the country. The jail, converted from former medical buildings, cost £19 million. By Natasha Robson What do you think? Let us know at editorial@champnews.com   2/6/2008 3:02:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6439 The BBC has given a guarded apology to line dancers upset by the portrayal of their pastime on EastEnders. The soap’s producers received a barrage of protests after characters Garry and Minty took up line dancing, performing in cowboy clothes to the tune Achy Breaky Heart. For years, line dancers have sought to distance themselves for the country and western origins of their hobby. Betty Drummond, publisher of Linedancer Magazine and managing director of Champion Newspapers, criticised the storyline and challenged members of the EastEnders cast to join her at a special line dancing event in Blackpool this weekend where fast-track courses for beginners are on offer. The Crystal Boot Awards – the Oscars of line dancing – take place at the Norbreck Hotel from February 8-10. Several readers contacted The Champion after receiving apologies from the BBC. Reader Vernon Daniels received an email saying “the BBC are sorry for any offence caused” and that complaints had been passed to senior managers. Another reader, Howard Barton, received a letter admitting that a group of viewers had been irritated by the storyline, but pleaded that the soap be allowed “dramatic licence”. However, as one controversy drew to a close,  another was igniting. Line dancers were appalled this week when BBC children’s television characters The Fimbles took up line dancing, with lead character Roly Mo explaining to viewers that Line dancers enjoy  yelling “yee-ha” when dancing and always wear cowboy hats. For information on the line dancing course call 01704 392300 or visit www.linedancermagazine.com 2/5/2008 8:50:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6430 Home owners are being warned against a roofing repair company who seem to cause more problems than they solve - yet still walk away with several thousands of pounds. Lancashire County Council's Trading Standards department has received complaints from householders about the quality of work carried out by cold calling roofing repairers trading as G 'n' A Roofline Services, with a Cheshire address. The firm offers to fit a dry verge cap system for gable ends - a system where plastic caps are fitted to the apex of the roof, and may initially quote a high price, but then offer a reduced rate to make householders feel that they are getting a bargain. Prices may then be increased when other alleged faults are noticed, and in some instances the final bill can exceed £2,000. Work is usually carried out by two workers and is of a poor standard. Some householders have been forced to pay out again for a reputable company to put the work right and fix leaks in their roofs. They use white vans marked either GnA Roofline Services or SL, and also offer a ten year guarantee that may prove difficult to enforce, as the paperwork bears either no address or just an accommodation address. Chief Trading Standards officer Jim Potts said: "We want to make Lancashire a no-go area for shoddy rip-off workmanship like this." County councillor Jean Battle, cabinet member for community planning and partnerships, said: "If you are cold-called for this kind of work the trader should give written seven-day cancellation rights. "Ask to look at another house the trader has worked on before agreeing to expensive work, get several detailed estimates or quotations before allowing work to start, and ensure the price you have been quoted includes VAT and that there are no hidden 'extras' that will be added in later. Obtain a detailed written agreement before the work starts, and a detailed invoice at the end." Trading Standards are warning consumers not to engage cold calling property repairers. If any householder has a complaint against these particular repairers they can contact Lancashire County Council directly on 01772 532145. By Henry James Send us your views. 1/31/2008 3:50:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6428 The North West ambulance service is warning people to take extra care after the Met Office issued a severe weather warning. The Merseyside area, along with other regions, will experience a marked change in the weather from Friday February 1  until at least Sunday February 3.  An ambulance spokesman said: "With the forecast predicting hazardous road conditions, we would encourage the public to think about whether their journey is necessary. "If it is, then wrap up warm, wear sensible shoes and take care whilst walking or driving.  Many accidents in these conditions are largely avoidable, such as slips, trips and falls.  It is worth noting that elderly people, even in their own homes, can be at risk of hypothermia so please look out for your elderly relatives and neighbours. "Helping elderly people with essential shopping during adverse weather can prevent them falling and sustaining significant injuries in slippery conditions. "Historically, we experience an increase in emergency calls during periods of adverse weather and NWAS is increasing resources to meet the expected rise in demand. However, we would urge people to think before they dial 999 - it is important that we have the maximum resources available to deal with genuine emergencies." The NHS has a range of services enabling patients to get the right treatment at the right time: • A&E or 999 – for critical or life threatening situations • NHS Walk-in Centre – for treatment of minor illness or injuries, without an appointment • GP – for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illness you just can’t shake off • Pharmacist – for advice on common winter illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them • NHS Direct – for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services • Self Care – for treatment of minor winter illnesses, by combining a well-stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest. For clinical advice over the holiday, you can contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or browse their web site www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk What do you think?  Write to us HERE. 1/31/2008 3:41:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6427 Crime is down in the Maghull area - and that's official! Community police insp Paul Meadows said last week (January 2008) that figures for December were the lowest recorded in years, while the Maghull district also has the lowest crime figures in the Sefton borough. Headline figures show falls in every aspect of crime between April and the end of December last year (2007).  The overall crime figure is down 15%, with robbery down by 39% and house burglary dropping 6%. The insp claimed this would have been higher but for a 'blip' in December which the arrest of a team of burglars seems to have corrected. Violent crime was down by 21%, theft from vehicles showed a small decrease and the theft of vehicles dropped by 27%. There were 223 fewer instances of criminal damage (a 40% fall) and 293 fewer cases of anti-social behaviour reported (down 16%). Insp Meadows now has a team of 20 police officers based in Maghull, along with a team of eight police Community Safety Officers. He said the PCSOs had proved very effective in the area. "Some of the jobs they do we otherwise couldn't have got round to and they have been very effective in sorting out anti-social behaviour - which usually means unruly young people," he said. By Jim Sharpe Give us your comments at editorial@champnews.com 1/30/2008 8:39:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6411 THIS week our Stop the Gravy Train campaign looks at how much our local councillors cost us. Members are given a basic allowance each year to help them carry out their duties, a special responsibility allowance for any positions they hold in council and expenses that vary with each council. In the last tax year Sefton’s 66 councillors cost us more than £750,000. Their basic allowance is £7,017 and the 10 cabinet members receive more than £13,000 in special responsibility allowance for their position. The most costly in Sefton was leader of the council Cllr Tony Robertson (Molyneux) who received almost £28,500, including a special responsibility allowance of more than £21,000. Cllr Fred Weavers (Kew) claimed the highest amount of all Sefton councillors in car mileage - more than £1,220. He said this reflected his activity as an elected member and the fact he lives further from Bootle than other members, as well as his larger car engine. Cllr Simon Shaw (Birkdale) claimed the highest amount in Sefton for public transport expenses - more than £1000 - and Cllr Sir Ron Watson (Dukes) claimed the most for food — more than £375. 1/29/2008 8:02:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6407 Our nine Euro-MPs cost us almost £1million each per year, it is claimed. The North West's members of the European Parliament each rake in a salary of £60,675 plus an array of extras. These include: Around £31,680 in Brussels/Strasbourg allowance.  MEPs receive around £180 a day towards accommodation and food, subject to them signing a daily register.  They are required to attend Parliament around four days each week, with eight weeks off. A generous pension scheme where their contributions of £771 are doubly matched by parliament, amounting to more than £18,500 a year. Weekly travel costs from Britain to Parliament at the cost of an open economy ticket plus an allowance for distance travelled. A generous car mileage allowance of 40p per mile, dropping to 25p after the first 10,000 miles. An allowance of £125,387 per year to employ staff. An annual office costs allowance of almost £32,000. Around £2,900 travel allowance to anywhere in the world for purposes other than official meetings. Four pages of the Bumper Book of Government Waste (2006) list MEPs' medical expenses 'entitlements', including mudbaths, glass eyes and saunas. The book concludes its EU section with the Supreme Waste Award for the 'glass eye allowance'. The European Parliament's scheme was set up to provide treatment for MEPs that they could not get through their own national health systems. Therapies are available by medical prescription only. In 2004 around £500 per MEP was claimed. Members also regularly enjoy free tickets and hospitality to sports fixtures including the EUFA Champions League Final and Rugby League Cup final. John Whittaker is a North West MEP representing the UK Independence Party. "The last time I looked MEPs cost £1 million a year each," he told The Champion. "A major component is shuffling the Parliament each month between Brussels and Strasbourg. "I do the minimum because I wasn't elected to make the European Union better.  Some of my colleagues will claim they have been trying to get grants for the North West, but we shouldn't be in Europe anyway, then we would have an awful lot more to spend on the North West. "There is no such thing as European Money -only money that has been contributed by the member states and the UK is the second largest contributor after Germany, giving £7 billion a year, net." Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies is a member of the EU Parliament's Reform Group and is calling for an overhaul of members' expenses. He wants travel expenses reimbursed only at cost, an annual audit of MEPs' expenses and any family members employed at Parliament's expense to be listed. He said: "MEPs are amongst Europe's most senior elected representatives. It is right that they be paid at good professional rates but the public also has the right to know just what these are. Transparency is essential, and we must sweep aside all the weaknesses in the payment system that makes it possible to suggest that all MEPs are on the fiddle. "I want the European Parliament to take a lead in reforming its own procedures and setting the highest standards. We shouldn't have to wait until public scandals erupt and force long overdue change." Labour MEP Arlene McCarthy said: "MEPs are cheaper per head than MPs, there are only nine covering the whole North West, and the allowance includes the cost of running an office and employing staff to serve constituents across the North West. "I use my staff and office allowance to employ a full complement of staff and run an efficient and effective constituency office, ensuring that I can represent my North West constituents to the full. "Labour Euro MPs have been at the forefront of pressing for reforms, some of which we have obtained. Further reforms are necessary, for example it should be obligatory for all MEPs to follow Labour's example and have their accounts audited." The North West has nine MEPs: Sir Robert Atkins, Den Dover, Sajiad Karim and David Sumberg (Conservative), Chris Davies (Liberal Democrat), Arlene McCarthy, Brian Simpson and Gary Titley (Labour) and John Whittaker (UKIP). By Natasha Robson What do you think?  Write to us here. 1/24/2008 5:50:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6394 A SCHEME to get parents involved in tackling anti-social behaviour in Sefton appears to be having a positive impact. The joint initiative by Sefton Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour team and Merseyside Police targets troublemakers by sending letters to their parents if they are caught. More than 500 letters have been sent to parents in the last six months and 80% of youngsters involved have not been in trouble again. Anti-social activities targeted include suspected under-age drinking, rowdy behaviour, possible drug taking or even just being in the company of troublemakers. Letters warn parents that their child could be involved in anti-social behaviour. Parents are also contacted so that they can make sure their child is not hanging around in dangerous areas. PC David Green, who is leading the initiative for Sefton’s ASB team, said: “Overall we have seen the rates of anti-social behaviour reduce in areas where letters have been sent to parents. “The principle purpose of the letters is to advise and offer our support - and several parents have thanked us for informing them about the conduct of their sons and daughters. We believe these letters are having a very significant positive impact.” Alan Carr, Team Leader at Sefton’s ASB team, said, “The letters are another example of our determination to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour, and our commitment to work with our communities to keep Sefton a safe place to live, work and visit.” Records are kept of people who are sent letters and a small minority may be subject to more formal interventions in the future such as Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABC’s) or Anti-Social Behaviour Orders. l For more information, visit www.sefton.gov.uk and click on the ‘Community and Living’ link. 1/21/2008 2:25:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6391 AN exciting year is planned for Sefton as part of Liverpool’s City of Culture celebrations. Events such as Southport Comedy Week, the Bootle Comedy and Music Festival and the Sefton Festival of Literature have already taken place in 2007 under the Express Sefton 08 banner. Launched in January the initiative hopes to promote culture in Sefton and encourage people to get involved in the events. As part of the celebrations six young people from the region will be given the chance of a lifetime and compete in the world famous Tall Ships Race in July 2008. With Sefton also playing host to the 2008 Golf Open Championships at Royal Birkdale, this year promises to be an exciting one for the region. Peter Sandman, Sefton Council’s events manager said: “Throughout 2007 we have been delivering a fantastic line-up of events and activities for the whole community to get involved with. “Sefton already hosts an amazing events calendar every year, which includes the world-famous Grand National horse race, and we are really looking forward to delivering our programme in 2008.  “We hope that people will really get into the Capital of Culture celebrations and enjoy what Sefton has to offer during this unique cultural year.” If you would like to get involved in Express Sefton, log onto www.sefton.gov.uk/express. 1/21/2008 2:19:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6390 LOCAL schools had mixed results in both GCSE and A-levels —according to Government league tables. Results for West Lancashire were patchy but all schools in Sefton beat the national average. At Maharishi school in Lathom, 100% achieved five top GCSE passes, including Maths and English. At Kingswood College in Scarisbrick 82% scored top marks. Formby High School (75%) and nearby Range High School (72%) also performed well. Meanwhile, 61% of pupils at Ormskirk’s St Bede’s and Deyes High School, Maghull, gained top passes. Birkdale High School was in a similar bracket with 63%. Greenbank Girls in Hillside achieved 57 per cent. The worst performing school in Sefton in terms of GCSEs was Maricourt in Maghull, although they still exceeded the national average with 54 per cent of pupils gaining five top passes of A*-C. In Lancashire as a whole, 48.1% of GCSE pupils claimed five top grades at GCSE compared with the national average of 46%. Last week league tables were also released for the A-level results. The tables are worked out using a system which scores each grade. Pupils at Ormskirk School gained an average points per entry score of 200.9 at A-level – less than the national average of 207.5. All colleges in Sefton were above the national average with Range High in particular performing well, achieving an average of 753.3 A-Level points per pupil. Formby High School also did well with an average of 673.4. Deyes High had an average of 696.6 while Maricourt achieved 682. 1/21/2008 2:17:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6387 Maghull's long awaited leisure centre got its final go-ahead last week (January 2008) when Sefton's Cabinet accepted the lowest of four tenders to build it. "So we're not talking about probabilities - we're talking fact!" said a jubilant cllr Tony Robertson, Leader of both Sefton and Maghull Town Councils. The £8.226 million cost includes a new Maghull library and space for the Hornby exhibition (though the estimated £220,000 for fitting it out will be raised by interested  parties). "This really is good news!" said cllr Roberston. "We all expected it to come off but nothing was certain until the Cabinet decision." He pointed out that the exhibition space would be flexible so it may be possible to stage other exhibitions as well as the Hornby one in the future. "With good will on all sides I'm sure we will be able to resolve these issues," he said. The plan accepted also includes the 'double decker' physical connection with Maghull Town Hall. "What we've achieved together at Sefton's Cabinet is approval for the principles and general direction of where we are going, " said cllr Robertson. "Now we have to obtain planning permission and iron out bucket-loads of detail over the next few months." The cllr pointed out how the project had grown since the original idea of having simply a swimming pool (to replace the life-expired one at Deye Lane) . "We added a learner pool and the a fitness suite - now we have a state of the art library and an exhibition space as well!" he said. When the leisure centre opens, hopefully towards the end of next year (2009), both the present Liverpool Road North library (which is in need of expensive repairs) and the Deyes Lane baths will be demolished.  It is not yet known to what use these sites will be put. By Jim Sharpe Tell us what you think at editorial@champnews.com 1/17/2008 2:46:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6384   Southport Hospital boss Sir Ron Watson is embroiled in an embarrassing row over expenses, Champnews.com can reveal. Sir Ron is a member of the influential Local Government Association (LGA). But Sefton Council is refusing to pay his expenses when he attends LGA meetings in London. A Conservative councillor for the town centre, he is also a member of numerous bodies both local and national (see panel right), earning up to an estimated £50,000 of public money a year in fees and expenses. Sir Ron, who is chairman of Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust ( £20,000 a year) is vice chairman of the LGA’s urban commission. They meet four times a year for which he receives a fee of £4,600. At present he is having to pay his own LGA travelling and subsistence expenses. “I am in the invidious position where Sefton is the only local authority in the country not to follow the normal protocol for an LGA representative to have his expenses paid by his own local authority,” he said. “They have not even given me the reason for their refusal.” He is furious details of his fight with the local authority have been made public. Champnews.com understands he raised the issue at a meeting of the Sefton Conservative Group on Monday night (14 January 2008) but received little support. Sir Ron was a Sefton Council nominee on the LGA, but was ditched by new Tory leader Paula Parry, who it is believed, is anxious to share such “perks” among all group members. His Dukes ward colleague Cllr Les Byrom (who was ousted as leader by Cllr Parry) then nominated Sir Ron for the LGA in his role as chairman of the Conservative Group of Merseyside Fire Authority. Sir Ron is not a member of the fire authority and is therefore not entitled for his LGA expenses to be paid by them. It later transpired Cllr Byrom’s nomination was ineligible and was replaced by a nomination by the Conservative Group on the LGA. Supporters of Sir Ron claim he is the victim of a witchhunt – along with fellow Dukes Cllr David Pearson (see story above) – within his own group. However, the decision to reject his expenses claim was made by all three party leaders (Tory, Labour, Liberal Democrat) on the local authority. Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Tony Robertson was unavailable for comment but a council spokesman told Champnews.com: “Sir Ron put himself forward for membership of the LGA and he does not represent Sefton Council on all occasions. We are not the only local authority in the country who adopt this policy.” Supporters of new Tory leader Cllr Parry say she is determined to ensure her members spend more time doing work in their own wards rather than travelling the country as members of various bodies. But there is no doubt, as Champnews.com reported some weeks ago, that there is a definite move by members of the Tory group to make the three Dukes ward councillors – Byrom, Pearson and Watson – toe the line. The Tories are confident Ainsdale Cllr Brenda Porter can beat Lib Dem MP John Pugh at the next general election and want a united front. By Martin Hovden Tell us your views at editorial@champnews.com 1/16/2008 9:20:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6382 SEFTON Council chief executive Graham Haywood will leave the local authority before the end of the year. Champnews  understands that Labour and Conservatives will join forces to accept Mr Haywood’s offer of early retirement, despite opposition from the Liberal Democrats. Mr Haywood has been asked to complete his major review of council services. 1/16/2008 8:37:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6366 A scheme to get parents involved in tackling anti-social behaviour in Sefton appears to be having a positive impact. The joint initiative by Sefton Council's Anti-Social Behaviour team and Merseyside Police targets troublemakers by sending letters to their parents. More than 500 letters have been sent to parents in the last six months and 80 per cent of youngsters involved have not been in trouble again. Anti-social activities targeted include suspected under-age drinking, rowdy behaviour, possible drug taking or even just being in the company of troublemakers. Letters warn parents that their child could be involved in anti-social behaviour. Victims parents are also contacted so that they can make sure their child is not hanging around in dangerous areas. PC David Green, who is leading the initiative for Sefton's ASB team, said: "Overall we have seen the rates of anti-social behaviour reduce in areas where letters have been sent to parents. "The principle purpose of the letters is to advise and offer our support - and several parents have thanked us for informing them about the conduct of their sons and daughters. We believe these letters are having a very significant positive impact." Alan Carr, Team Leader at Sefton's ASB team, said, "The letters are another example of our determination to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour, and our commitment to work with our communities to keep Sefton a safe place to live, work and visit." Records are kept of people who are sent letters and a small minority may be subject to more formal interventions in the future such as Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABC's) or Anti-Social Behaviour Orders. For more information, visit www.sefton.gov.uk and click on the 'Community and Living' link. What do you think? CLICK HERE   1/11/2008 6:39:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6362 Merseyside's Kenyan community have spoken out about the ongoing crisis in the African region, and appealed for help from local people. Paul Nchoroge, Chairman of Kenya Community Liverpool (KCL), an organisation for Kenyan residents across the whole of Merseyside, said: "There are media reports saying that the violence is down to ethnic tensions between Kenyans, but it has actually been caused by the problems with the election. "We are appalled with what's going on. We are shocked, Kenyans are peaceful." KCL held a prayer service in Liverpool's West Derby on Sunday (January 6 2008), allowing the local Kenyan community to show their solidarity as the crisis continues. Mr Nchoroge, a Formby resident, went on to say: "There are people who are affected here, the service gave them chance to grieve." KCL has also set up a fund, urging people to donate whatever they can to help the many who have been hurt and stranded. To become a member of Kenya Community Liverpool or to make a donation, visit www.kclcharity.org. By Natasha Young Send us your comments 1/9/2008 8:19:00 AM http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6354 COMMUTERS travelling in Merseyside have seen an increase in train ticket prices. On average Merseyrail tickets increased by 3.8% and the new fares came into force on Wednesday, January 2. The new increases mean that a peak time return ticket from Southport to Liverpool has increased 15p from £5 to £5.15. While a peak time return fare from Maghull to Liverpool has gone up 10p from £3.20 to £3.30. Also Saveaway tickets, which allow people travelling on rail, bus and ferry unlimited off-peak travel in central zones, have gone up 33% from £2.40 to £3.20. The train ticket increases were defended by a spokesman for Merseyrail who said: "The rise is no more than inflation so in real terms is not an increase. "It represents value for money for the people of West Lancashire and Sefton." Merseyrail's fare increases compared favourably with above-inflation fare rises of almost 15% in other parts of the country. Some of the highest increases were seen in Kent and south east London, and were set by the train operator Southeastern. Saver, standard returns, and season tickets rose on average across the country by 4.8%. Virgin trains have also brought in fare increases and they have announced that tickets from Liverpool to London will go up by 11%. An open single to the capital has gone up from £95.50 to £107.50 and a saver return ticket will increase from £57.20 to £62.60.      Consumer watchdog Passenger Focus said the rises were not justified, while the director general of the Association of Train Operating Companies George Muir replied that the fare increases would help pay for service investment. What do you think? Tell us HERE 1/7/2008 3:05:00 AM