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=7631 Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc gang are back by popular demand in Scooby Doo and the Pirate Ghost, a brand-new, all singing and dancing “spook-tastic” show which runs at Liverpool Empire Theatre from 23-26 July. In this exciting production, written and directed by the acclaimed Jim Millan, the beloved Hanna-Barbera characters Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne and Fred are bought to life, bringing their unique, comical brand of detective work and super scary fun to theatres across the country. A tropical island is the scene for Scooby’s newest live adventure, but it’s far from peaceful and idyllic when The Mystery Inc gang land on the island! Ghostly goings-on and supernatural scenarios mixed with hilarious physical comedy, groovy music and magical effects will be keeping audiences happily spooked and on the edge of their seats for the entire 90 minutes of this exciting production! Tickets £16.50 - £18.50 – all tickets £10 for opening performance.  Call the box office 0844 847 2525* or visit www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk*   02/07/2009 07:46:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7630 An art exhibition in the unlikely setting of an industrial estate takes place during July. Landfill, at Unit 2 Kirkdale House, Sefton Lane Industrial Estate, features 17 artists spanning five generations from Merseyside and beyond. The exhibition runs from July 5 to 11, from 10.30am to 9pm, with a family friendly open evening on Saturday July 4, from 5.30pm to 9pm. For further details contact 07904 528 772 for directions log on to www.sculptureschool.org and go to contacts.   02/07/2009 07:44:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7623 NHS trusts across Sefton have boosted the health and well-being of their staff, thanks to the Hospital Food Project. Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust, Mersey care NHS Trust and Aintree University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust were among 10 trusts in Merseyside and Cheshire that took part in the project, from September 2008 to January 2009. Initiated by Heart of Mersey, a Liverpool-based cardiovascular disease prevention charity, the ‘Nourish’ campaign involved hospitals monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of new healthy eating promotions, canteen menu overhauls and health food discounts, as well as the impact of changing existing recipes to reduce the amount of fat, salt and sugar in meals. Practical training workshops on nutrition were also provided for catering staff. The project’s final evaluation report revealed positive results, with Southport and Ormskirk staff asking for healthier snacks. To date the trust has sold 144 boxes of healthier variety snacks and crisps. Mersey Care’s fruit sales increased from 75 pieces per week to 90 during the three month campaign, and Aintree University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust reduced the saturated fat content of many daily meals by four grams per portion, simply by reformulating their cheese sauce recipe. Robin Ireland, chief executive of Heart of Mersey, said: “There are genuine barriers to healthy eating such as the accessibility and affordability of choosing healthy food options. “For me, the success of this project has been in its introduction of lots of small changes and its focus on helping catering staff to understand how to remove some of these barriers, in order to make it easier for people to choose a healthier diet.” Over the coming months, trusts will continue to learn from the project with further menu alterations and healthy food promotions, and will continue to monitor food sales on different healthy food product lines and meals. By Natasha Young 01/07/2009 10:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7614 Dreamboats and Petticoats - Liverpool Empire Set in 1961 and featuring more than forty rock ‘n’ roll classic hits of the era Dreamboats and Petticoats is swinging at the Liverpool Empire. Inspired by albums of the same name it is brought to the stage by Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield in conjunction with legendary television scriptwriters Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran. The sixties really did swing.  I know – I was there!  Ours was the first generation of teenagers who knew they wanted something different from life.  A germ of an idea could be turned into a reality overnight.  We’d hatch plans to make a name for ourselves.  “Yeah … let’s do it!” we would say.  And we did! Ben Freeman (Emmerdale) and Scott Bruton (2008 X Factor finalist) lead an outstanding and energetic cast in this jumpin’, twistin’, rockin’ show which also stars Jennifer Biddall (Hollyoaks), David Cardy (Birds of a Feather) and newcomers Daisy Wood-Davis and AJ Dean. The story weaves around London’s St Mungo’s youth club song-writing competition as the characters dream of fame.  A day trip to Southend funfair with real dodgems and flashing lights sows the seeds for Dreamboats and Petticoats to become the winning song (of course).  This leads into a fast, wild and vibrant finale featuring At the Hop with the audience twisting in the aisles and reliving memories. It’s guaranteed to send you smiling and dancing down Lime Street! Score: 5/5 - O’ill give it foive!  (If you were part of the 60s you’ll remember!) Review by Jenny Robson   25/06/2009 06:40:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7612 A West End scale musical pulls into Liverpool’s Royal Court in September which is packed with fun, laughter and soul-stirring songs. Willy Russell’s Our Day Out – The Musical is the Royal Court Liverpool’s biggest project to date and is set to be the smash hit show of 2009. Our Day Out was a massive TV hit when it was originally written in 1976 and was later turned into a popular stage play. Now, for 2009, Willy Russell has reworked the script and added some fantastic songs (the songs and music co-written with Director Bob Eaton) to create a brand new Musical which will have you laughing and singing all the way home! A very funny and heartwarming story, Mrs Kay’s Progress Class are all on board and bound for Alton Towers... until Mr Briggs gets on board! The destination changes to a zoo in North Wales but there is no stopping the fun on a trip for the class that always gets left behind. Big dance numbers, instantly recognisable characters and songs so catchy you’ll be singing them for weeks make Our Day Out –The Musical the hottest ticket in town. The cast will include Michael Starke (Brookside, Coronation Street), Andrew Schofield (Misery, Brick Up The Mersey Tunnel), Holly Quin-Ankrah (Grange Hill, Rock Rivals), Bradley Clarkson (Grease Is The Word) and Gillian Hardie (Stags and Hens, On The Ledge). Our Day Out – The Musical will run from Friday 11 September to Saturday 17 October. Tickets and information are available from www.royalcourtliverpool.com or on 0870 787 1866.   25/06/2009 06:35:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7611 It’s Now Or Never - Little Theatre, Southport Imagine two kidnappers, a chainsaw and the King of rock ‘n’ roll and you have this hilarious romping comedy chosen by the Too Friendly Theatre Company to celebrate their 10th anniversary. John Windsor is very funny as Keith who has invited Tom (Cliff Gillies) and Alice (Helen Haygarth) to stay at his Marbella villa in preparation for their wedding the following morning. Keith and Tom are Elvis fanatics; when they believe they have spotted him in next door’s garden they kidnap him and plan to sell their story to the British tabloid press. Cue Sunday Insider journalist, Sue Thomas (Daphne Wood), up from Gibraltar to cover the scoop. Things don’t go according to plan.  Inspector Olvera (Rob Darby) arrives and lines get quickly crossed; hearing everyone talking about ‘the King’ he presumes King Juan Carlos is around. Meanwhile dry-cleaning assistant Lydia (Dorothy Scott) pops in and out to keep Alice’s wedding dress in pristine condition when it keeps getting ruined in the mayhem.  Oh – and Keith ends up wearing the dress … don’t ask! In absurdly farcical form doors open and close as the characters scurry about (sometimes having to pretend they haven’t noticed each other).  Mark Haygarth completes the cast in the role of well padded out ‘Elvis’.  One memorable scene sees him propped up between Tom and Keith supposedly dead.  Keith does Elvis’s talking, ventriloquist style.  One funny line talks of his being as ‘glite as a glutton’ – wonderful stuff! Score: 3.5/5 – Frantic and funny By Jenny Robson   25/06/2009 06:33:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7578 Diversity and all nine of the Britain’s Got Talent finalists will perform alongside George Sampson on the ‘Britain’s Got Talent Live Tour’ 2009! Dance troupe Diversity were voted by the British public as the winners of Britain’s Got Talent 2009 and will now headline the Britain’s Got Talent Live UK Tour, which comes to Liverpool’s Echo Arena on 18 June. They will be joined on tour by all nine other finalists; Susan Boyle, Julian Smith, Shaheen Jafargholi, Aidan Davis, Stavros Flatley, Hollie Steel, Shaun Smith, Flawless and 2 Grand. The arena tour, which will travel across the UK until the end of June, will be hosted for the second year running by ITV2’s Britain’s Got More Talent presenter Stephen Mulhern. Tickets are on sale from the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 / online at www.echoarena.com, priced at £32.50 subject to booking / handling fees.   04/06/2009 07:01:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7577 William Shakespeare returns for a sixth season to the grounds of Lydiate Abbey (aka St Catherine’s Priory) on the Southport Road. Lancashire- born and based Dean Taylor brings his Professional Theatre Company to this most unique of venues with an outdoor staging of the romantic comedy The Merchant of Venice, on Friday July 3 at 7pm, Saturday July 4 at 2pm and 7pm and Sunday July 5 at 2pm.  “My ten-strong ensemble tours around the North West each summer,” says producer/director Dean. “Yet Lydiate offers us something very special, it possesses a magic, an aura of its own.” Last summer the company entertained hundreds of picnic-makers of all ages with their critically acclaimed The Taming of the Shrew. Live music, excellent costumes from the Royal Shakespeare Company and a striking lighting plot should ensure a colourful spectacle. “We have commissioned a new musical score to help drive the narrative. With clarinet, strings, keyboards and percussion we hope to create a unique Jazz-feel to our drama. There is a barbeque  too,” says Lydiate Parish Councillor Dave Russell. “Run every day beside the Scotch Piper public house, the Lydiate Scout Troupe will add to a festival feel. The Summer Shakespeare has become a part of our Social calendar around Maghull.” Bring a picnic and a chair.  For tickets call 01772 466256 or visit The Scotch Piper pub. For further Information go to www.shakespearetheatreoutdoors.co.uk   04/06/2009 06:53:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7556 The Too Friendly Theatre Company’s next production, It’s Now or Never, runs at Southport’s Little Theatre from June 11 to 13. The story follows an Elvis Presley fanatic, Tom Weals, and his fiancee, Alice, as they arrive in Spain in preparation for their long awaited wedding. Keith Clark, a fellow Elvis fanatic, has offered them the use of his villa outside Marbella while he is in London, but their arrival is predated by a sighting by Keith of Elvis Presley, alive and well and gardening in a nearby villa. Unbeknownst to Alice, who is not much of an Elvis fan, Keith talks Tom into helping him kidnap Elvis and sell the story to the British tabloid press. However, things don’t go according to plan. John Windsor, who plays one of the would be kidnappers, says: “The script is brilliant. It’s extremely funny but the hardest parts for me will be trying to keep a straight face and having to keep up with the furious pace. It’s one of the funniest and most ridiculous plays I’ve read and I can’t wait for audiences to get to see it.” You can book your tickets, priced £7.50, in advance by calling 01704 560229 and you can visit the companies website at www.toofriendlytheatre.com for more information.   28/05/2009 06:42:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7549 A Sefton councillor has abandoned his safe Labour seat and defected to the Liberal Democrat party. Bootle Derby Ward Cllr Paul Larkin, who previously worked as Crosby MP Claire Curtis-Thomas’s agent, made the decision claiming Labour “continued to let the people down.” The move now gives Lib Dems “a foothold in every part of Sefton,” according to the party’s regional chair in the North West, Cllr Sue McGuire.    Cllr Larkin said: “As a life long Labour supporter and a cllr since 2004, I would like to thank the community for their support, and would ask them to understand that I have not taken this decision lightly. “Having been the agent for the MP for Crosby in 2005, I worked tirelessly for a Labour victory, yet unfortunately they continued to let the people down. Moreover the arrogance of the national Labour party and lack of concern for the ordinary working class family, like their local Labour counterparts, have led me to join the Liberal Democrats a party that I know listens to the local people. “I believe more and more people will realise that the Liberal Democrats are the best choice for disillusioned Labour supporters.” Sefton Council leader and Lib Dem cllr Tony Robertson welcomed Cllr Larkin into the party and said: “I am pleased that he feels the Liberal Democrats are the best party to get things done and the best opposition to Labour." Meanwhile the borough’s Labour leader, Cllr Peter Dowd said: “If Cllr Larkin wants to join a Party that has closed schools across Sefton, shut down community centres and has closed and is demolishing a sports centre in his own patch of Derby ward, then they are welcome to him.  If Cllr Larkin wants to help the Liberal Democrats to do even more dirty work, particularly in the poorer parts of Sefton, then that is a matter for his conscience.  Quite frankly, I think it was a question of him jumping before he was pushed.” Last summer Southport Tory Cllr Les Byrom switched to the Labour party over policy issues.  By Natasha Young 27/05/2009 07:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7537 Open auditions are to be held at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on 29th May to find a new Young Helen Forrester, one of the starring roles in the hit musical play Twopence to Cross the Mersey, which returns to the Empire later this year for a two week run. The role, previously played by Jamie Clarke, is central in Helen Forrester's true story of how she and her formerly wealthy family had to leave behind the nannies and servants and survive in the slums of  Liverpool during the depression of the 1930s. Writer and producer of the show Rob Fennah said: "The last time we held open auditions in 2004, Jamie, a relatively inexperienced actress at the time, beat hundreds of other hopefuls and clinched a part with her fantastic singing and acting abilities. As a direct result of her appearing in Twopence she was spotted by a leading West End agent and was signed up immediately." Co-producer Alan Fennah added: "Finding home grown talent is important to us and, providing they can sing and act to a high standard, everyone who comes to the audition is in with a chance. We are also delighted to announce that the show will again be starring actress Pauline Daniels in the role of Helen Forrester Senior." Pauline, whose theatre credits include Misery, Shirley Valentine and Breezeblock Park said: "I have always been a fan of Twopence to Cross the Mersey and am so thrilled to be coming back. I am confident it will be the best production to date." Returning also is Mark Moraghan, formerly of Holby City. Together with his numerous TV and theatre credits, Mark is making a name for himself as a singer and is about to release his first album. He's not a bad cook either, making it to the final of last year's Celebrity Masterchef. Mark will play the role of Helen's father, John Forrester. Auditions take place on Friday May 29 at the Empire Theatre's Atrium bar (please queue at the main glass doors of the new part of the building at the side of the theatre). Auditions will begin at 10am. Auditionees must be aged between 16 and 21. For more information about the auditions please see www.pulse-records.co.uk or www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk For more information on Twopence to Cross the Mersey please contact Rob Fennah on 0151 649 0427 or info@pulse-records.co.uk 21/05/2009 09:38:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7533 With over 40,000 tickets already sold for this year’s Liverpool Summer Pops Festival, organisers CMP have today announced further shows across the city, declaring it the biggest and best Pops ever. The month-long music extravaganza takes place across venues in the Liverpool this July, at the Echo Arena, 02 Academy, The Bluecoat and The Philharmonic. The Echo Arena plays host to Pops favourites Deacon Blue on Friday, July 31 and Simply Red bring their greatest hits farewell tour to the Pops on Saturday, July 25. The UK’s most popular pianist and bandleader, Jools Holland, makes a welcome return to the City this summer. Other top acts include legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, the hottest girl group around the Pussycat Dolls, America R&B superstar Ne-Yo, Latino songstress Gloria Estefan and Irish folk stars The Pogues, all making their Pops debut. The MOBO Award winning hip hop trio N-Dubz are joined by special guests Chipmunk, Stevie Hoang and Liverpool rapper Young Kof. For tickets call 0844 847 1616. 21/05/2009 09:28:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7529 Merseyside Police arrested three people in Netherton on Monday night (May 18, 2009), following a series of attacks against Southport and Formby businessmen. Over recent months a number of Sefton properties linked to Terry Riley, who owns Formby’s Shorrocks Hill Country Club, and John Ball have been targeted by shootings and suspected arson attacks. Following the execution of a warrant in Nutsford Close, Netherton at 9.30pm on Monday, police seized a number of empty petrol cans, a quantity of cash, mobile phones and a quantity of controlled drugs. Two men, aged 38 and 32, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson, possession of controlled drugs and money laundering. A 36-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs and money laundering. As The Champion went to press they remained in police custody and were set to interviewed by detectives. Detective Superintendent Martin Andrew said: "This warrant was executed as a result of information from the public and I would like to thank the local community for their assistance. "I would ask people to continue coming forward to help us put an end to these incidents and bring the offenders to justice.“ A 58-year-old from Maghull and a 39-year-old from Netherton, who were arrested last week on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage, namely arson and firearm offences, have been bailed pending further enquiries. Police are also investigating whether a number of incidents that took place last week are connected to previous incidents across the borough. At around 1.15pm on Tuesday May 12 an armed chase allegedly took place on Southport’s Coastal Road involving two men on motorbikes, one of whom may been in possession of a gun. The men, said to be wearing dark clothing with one on a black motorbike and the other on a green motorbike, were reportedly pointing the weapon at the car of Sefton businessman Terry Riley. An improvised explosive device was thrown at the front door a Litherland property last Thursday (May 14). Police were called to the address at 11.20pm and minor damage was caused the exterior. Nobody was injured. A fire at a derelict building on Southport’s Norwood Road on Friday night (May 15) is also being investigated. No injuries were caused by the incident, at around 10.30pm.     Anyone who saw anything or who has any information is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 20/05/2009 05:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7527 Athletics The Liverpool Pembroke Sefton Young Athletes were at Doncaster for their Premier League match. It was always going to be a tough occasion up against the powerful Sale, Doncaster and Gateshead teams and so it turned out. In spite of trailing in last though there were some scintillating individual performances especially Adam Thomson`s 400m win in the Under 17 400m in 50.70 followed by the 1.80m high jumpof the fast improving Billy Williams. There were other single winners at U17 including Toby Loveridge(800m in 2.06.3), Mike Bride(1500m in 4.22.1), Mike Carmona-Jones(Hammer 38.97m) and a neat A and B double success in the 1500m Steeplechase for Jai Vernon-McGuigan(5.03.4) and Sean Kirkbride(5.04.9). The star for the women in this age group was Jessica Broady with an impressive Hammer Throw of 29.79m but Emma Givens(12.9) and Annie McLoughlin(13.3) combined well to take the 80m hurdle races. At Under 15 Andrew Williams(55.90) and Joel Hutchinson(56.40) posted eye-catching 400m times. Under 13 Ben Haines stood out winning the Shot with 7.05m and usefully doubled up to win the 800m B event in 2.44.5. But it was more a day for honest endeavour, characterised by Kevin Carmona-Jones, George Curran, Zoe Rafferty, Tawanda Lunghu and a host of others who battled for every point.This difficult encounter was best illustrated when LPS came away with one relay win, the Mens 4 x 400m(Mike Stam, Adam Thomson, Jesse Roberts and Toby Loveridge). There will be better results in the next three matches. 19/05/2009 11:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7507 Sefton has been named as one of the most ‘recession-proof’ areas of Britain. The borough has climbed the second highest number of places in a list of the largest authorities in the country, ranked on various economic factors. Last year Sefton was 80th on the U-Switch.com regional recession index, but has climbed to 67th place this year. “For Sefton, this is thanks to a 7% boost in average earnings and just 46% more people claiming Job Seekers’ Allowance – this is 20% below the average increase in the country,” a U-Switch spokesperson said. The rankings examine an area’s average income, house prices, unemployment and council tax. Formby businesswoman and chair of the Village Partnership, Gill Fell, said: “Maybe it’s because of all of the hard work people in the area are doing. A lot is being done to keep businesses afloat. “Plus Southport offered a free Park and Ride service at weekends and we have working groups that are continually pushing to help businesses flourish. Little things are helping.” Cabinet member for tourism, Cllr Ronnie Fearn, said the continued development of Southport as a Classic Resort of the north has brought many visitors to the area. “It would appear that the public, including those who have decided not to go abroad, are choosing Southport as a destination and that the number of shoppers who arrive in the town still remain level - and indeed ,from the point of view of coach parties, has increased,” he said. “In spite of the fact we have seen closures in the town centre of various establishments, this does not appear to have affected the appearance of the town and the general theme of attracting people. “We expect to continue developing in King’s Gardens, finalising Lord Street, further development of hotels and the culture centre at the Arts Centre, to provide what people need and once again succeed as the resort of the north.”   07/05/2009 10:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7504 The record breaking touring show We’ll Meet Again clocks up an amazing ninth year on the road in 2009, calling at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Wednesday June 3 at 2.30pm. With the fabulous music of The Martyn St James Sound here is an afternoon show with a recollection of the days when the spirit of Britain was at it’s highest, and an era to be proud of. It’s great fun and damp-eyed nostalgia that leaves you with a warm and sentimental glow. The show features a range of talent, including singers Sheley James and Tony Leyton, musical entertainer Andy Eastwood, comedy star Steve Barclay and host Mervyn Francis. This matinee performance will bring back classic memories of Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn, Al Jolson, Max Miller, George Formby and many more. Tickets are £11 (concessions £20 off; Groups 10+: 1 in 10 go free). To book Call Ticketmaster 0844 847 2380*, book online at www.southporttheatre.org.uk* or call into the Box Office open Monday-Saturday, 9.30am-5.30pm (*subject to booking fee). 07/05/2009 09:53:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7503 The Songs Of Sister Act come to Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Thursday May 28, 7.30pm. This high energy concert is the must see show this season, starring The London Community Gospel Choir and Rowetta (X Factor and Happy Mondays). The Theatre will fill with the sound of those famous Gospel hits from the smash hit movie Sister Act. This unforgettable show will have the audience dancing in the aisles to songs that include: Oh Happy Day, Joyful Joyful, Shout, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Hail Holy Queen and many more! So get those habits on, dig out your dancing shoes and prepare for the night of your life - fancy dress encouraged! Tickets are £18.50 (concessions £1.50 off; Live Card £1.50 off). 07/05/2009 09:52:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7502 Let Sefton Arts take you back to the swinging 60s this summer with Telstar - The Concert at Crosby Civic Hall on Saturday June 6 at 7.30pm. This tribute to the legendary record producer Joe Meek features 60s stars The Tornados (Telstar, Globetrotter, Ice Cream Man) and John Leyton, (Johnny Remember Me & Wild Wind). Meek's most famous hit, The Tornados' Telstar, was a worldwide smash and they became the first ever UK group to reach the top spot in the USA. The dramatic story of the world's first Independent record producer who changed the face of the British music industry has now been made into 'Telstar' - The Movie, due for release this summer. Telstar - The Concert at Crosby Civic Hall is supported by The Honeycombs Band and The Flames. Tickets cost £14 (£12 concessions) and are available by calling Box Office on 0151 928 1919/01704 540011 or by logging onto www.seftonarts.co.uk 07/05/2009 09:41:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7498 Merseyside Police is one of five forces to be honoured by the Home Office for its crackdown on drug dealers. The force picked up the award for best practice in asset recovery at the annual Tackling Drugs Supply Awards, having seised more than £1.1 million in cash. Mereseyside’s Operation Manaton was also commended at the event, in the category for the best example of enforcement linkages with Drug Intervention Programme. Chief Constable, Bernard Hogan-Howe said: “Merseyside Police has had some significant successes in the field of serious organised crime and over the past three years has been one of the most successful forces in the country for asset recovery. “The ability to take ill-gotten gains off those involved in crime is a powerful tool in our total war on crime - last year this force seized in excess of £2.6 million. Ironically, through the national incentivisation scheme we are able to plough some of that money taken off criminals back in to fighting crime on Merseyside. “I am delighted that the Financial Investigations Unit has been recognised nationally for its work on this particular case and would like to congratulate them on a job well done. The team works hard to ensure that crime does not pay and this is one of numerous successful asset recovery cases they have worked on in recent years. We cannot and will not be complacent and we will continue to hit criminals were it hurts - in the pocket." By Natasha Young     06/05/2009 07:32:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7496 A married couple, thought to be from the Maghull area, have become the first confirmed victims of swine flu in Sefton. The pair had recently visited Mexico, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said. The woman was confirmed as having the virus on Friday May 1 (2009) and the man was diagnosed the following day. The couple are being treated at home with anti-viral medication and are said to be responding well.  Members of their family and others who have had close contact are also being treated as a precaution. More than 600 people across the UK have been tested for the H1N1 flu virus, which is though to have infected more than 700 people in Mexico. Meanwhile, the North West is prepared to handle a swine flu  pandemic, according to the region’s NHS. With an increase of confirmed cases in the UK (now at 27), Dr Ruth Hussey, regional director for public health, said: “Our local NHS hospitals and primary care trusts have been working with the Health Protection Agency to put into action the plans that have been developed and thoroughly tested for such an eventuality.  They have been preparing for a possible pandemic for the past five years. “We know that people will be feeling concerned at the moment.  However, we want to reassure them that the NHS is prepared. “It is important that people are vigilant.  At the moment it is unclear where the swine flu virus will spread, however we are anticipating that there will be some cases in our region. “If you have returned from an affected area and have flu like symptoms stay at home, call your GP or NHS Direct.  You will be asked some simple questions.  If necessary, swabs may be taken to be tested and, if needed treatment will be given with anti-viral medication. “There are some basic and effective steps that we can all take to help prevent the spread of swine flu, and any other type of flu.  Follow the advice of the national campaign to ‘Catch it, Bin it, Kill it’ if you need to sneeze of cough,” said Dr Hussey. “Viruses are spread through the air, so using a tissue and disposing of it effectively is very important as well as washing your hands thoroughly and regularly.” The Department of Health has now launched a national flu information line and leaflet drop to every household. The national flu information line can be reached on 0800 1513 513.  By Natasha Robson     06/05/2009 07:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7495 Little Shop of Horrors Liverpool Empire Little Shop of Horrors is my favourite musical - and probably it will be yours too after seeing this fantastic production. From the first bars of music right through to the end, the action was slick and fast-paced and the audience was captivated. The show tells the story of Mushnik’s Skid Row florist, that is destined for closure until nerdy shop assistant Seymour discovers a “strange and interesting” new plant - Audrey II - that brings fame and fortune… but at a price. The cast is magnificent and features some big names, such as 2point4 Children’s Clare Buckfield who shone as ditzy florist Audrey, former Doctor Who Sylvester McCoy as Mushnik and Alex Ferns (formerly Trevor Morgan in Eastenders) who had everyone in stitches as Audrey’s psychotic boyfriend, the insane dentist Orin Scrivello. Seymour is played by Damian Humbley, who is perfect in the role and has a fantastic voice. His duet with Audrey was one of the highlights for me. Street urchins Crystal, Ronette and Chiffon (played by Nadia Di Mambro, Donna Hines and Lara Martin in this performance) cleverly help move the story along and belt out some fantastic tunes. Some spectacular puppetry really brings Audrey II to life, from when she is a small sapling to a fully grown monster. The score by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken will leave you humming the song for days to come. This brilliant show by Chocolate Factory Productions is a credit to everyone involved. Go and see it! Little Shop of Horrors runs until Saturday May 9 at the Liverpool Empire. Tickets are £10.50 - £29.50. Call Ticketmaster on 0844 8472525. Review by Natasha Robson 06/05/2009 05:12:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7487 The acclaimed musical Little Shop of Horrors stops at the Liverpool Empire Theatre this week. The affectionate spoof of a 1950s sci-fi film stars Clare Buckfield (Audrey), Alex Ferns (Dentist) and Sylvester McCoy (Mushnik). Alex, who shot to fame as Eastenders’ evil Trevor Morgan,  is delighted to be starring in one of his favourite shows. “It’s a bit of a dream come true for me,” Alex said. “I’ve been a huge fan of the movie ever since it came out and I love being in the show. “The dentist was a favourite character and it’s great being able to play someone completely insane and funny at the same time.” The show tells the story of down-and-out Skid Row floral assistant Seymour, who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon “Audrey II” grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore offering him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite… but as Audrey II’s hungry demands increase, all that Seymour holds dear is threatened. This is Alex’s second musical role, after appearing in Guys and Dolls in 2007, and he says he loves singing.  The show’s score is by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, who wrote the stunning scores to Disney’s Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin. “That is what I am enjoying most.  It’s fantastic to be able to let rip and hold my own.” As well as the sadistic dentist, Alex plays seven other small roles including a woman. This is his first visit to Liverpool and he is looking forward to experiencing the city. Little Shop of Horrors runs until Saturday May 9 at the Liverpool Empire. Tickets are £10.50 - £29.50.  Call Ticketmaster on 0844 8472525. 05/05/2009 05:27:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7480 Singin’ In the Rain - Liverpool Empire The atmosphere was electric as the overture began and I knew this show was special. With handsome good looks and dazzling white smile Olivier award-winning West End and Broadway star Tim Flavin shines as Don Lockwood in this slick and mesmerising stage version of the 1952 MGM film.      He wows the audience in ‘real’ rain with the show’s iconic puddle-splashing tap routine (immortalised by Gene Kelly as probably the most famous musical sequence ever).  Gene Kelly took a day and a half to shoot it on film.  Tim Flavin dances through one take every night! The show tells the story of the making of one of Hollywood’s first musicals. Silent screen star Lina Lamont (Amy Griffiths) is struggling to get into talkies with her excruciating voice.  To get the film released on time, studio bosses dub newcomer Kathy Seldon’s (Jessica Punch) angelic voice over Lina’s and trouble begins.  Both girls are also in love with Don Lockwood – and who can blame them? Lockwood’s sidekick, Cosmo Brown, is perfectly played by multi-talented Graeme Henderson who is also responsible for the incredibly inventive, witty and perfectly executed creative choreography.  The show is littered with sharp one-liners, colourful costumes and surely some of the best lyrics and show tunes ever written.  I must mention the immaculate split-second timing, especially in Make ‘em Laugh – nothing short of brilliant! With a superb cast and outstanding direction by Alison Pollard this show is a winner.  All the splendour of Hollywood with a rousing umbrella-twirling finale! A top class show from UK Productions! Score 5/5 Review by Jenny Robson   30/04/2009 12:10:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7475 Comedian Eddie Izzard has added a second Liverpool Echo Arena date to his UK tour ‘Stripped’. Due to popular demand, Eddie will now bring his surreal stand-up to the city on November 1, as well as October 31. Tickets for the new date are now on sale priced £30, subject to a handling/booking fee. Maximum of six tickets per person. Visit www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400 to book. The show is recommended for viewers aged 15 and over. 30/04/2009 12:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7452 All the Fun of the Fair Liverpool Empire Theatre All the Fun of the Fair takes its name from the title of David Essex’s late 70s album.  Together with Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway David co-wrote this roller-coaster of a musical featuring all his hits and album favourites. The show opens with Rosa (Louise English), the gypsy fortune-teller singing A Winter’s Tale on an almost dark stage.  She tells a moving story of heartbreak and love and introduces the two doomed lovers – Alice and Jack.  Alice (Tanya Robb) is the pretty daughter of Harvey (David Burrows) who is against her relationship with Jack (Levi’s son).  And so begins the story of all the misery at the fair! The funfair is struggling to survive and then gets trashed by a gang.  Rosa loves Levi (David Essex) but he isn’t interested even though they once had a fling.  Recently widowed Levi is the father of rebellious teenage son, Jack, played by Paul-Ryan Carberry who is making his professional debut.   The set moves to under the skyline of the big dipper with the carnival atmosphere of carousel, dodgems, candy floss, shooting gallery, romance and rock and roll. The hit songs are all there – Hold Me Close, Me and My Girl, Gonna Make you a Star – but the best was undoubtedly Silver Dream Machine in the second half featuring David Essex sitting astride a huge motorbike with searching headlights flashing around the auditorium.  Very exciting! The UK tour is nearing its end so perhaps this is why David seemed tired. But his fans loved him and gave him a standing ovation at the end.  Shame he couldn’t sing all his hits himself.  They just don’t sound the same sung by other people. A good show but rather slow!  Needs more direction. Score 3/5 Review by Jenny Robson 23/04/2009 10:52:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7450 The innovative stage show Elvis Presley in Concert returns to the UK in March 2010. Tickets went on sale on Friday April 24 for the production that reunites former Elvis band mates live on stage with a state of the art video-projected Elvis. The Elvis footage is projected on a large video screen. On stage a 16-piece orchestra and some of Elvis' original bandmates from the concert era of his career and other cast members perform live with the Elvis video. The show comes to the Echo Arena Liverpool on March 7 2010. To book tickets log on to www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400. Tickets are priced at £35 / £33.50 subject to a booking / handling fee. Show time is 8pm. 23/04/2009 10:48:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7449 A major new production, featuring some of the greatest hit songs ever written, comes to the Liverpool Empire in June. Dreamboats and Petticoats - The Ultimate British Rock n Roll Musical -  is written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, the team behind Goodnight Sweetheart, Birds of a Feather, and Shine on Harvey Moon. In 1961 emotions run high as talented young musicians Norman and Bobby compete to win the hearts of their adoring female fans – and more importantly, the gorgeous Laura. But when Laura shows that she’s no slouch with the guitar, rock ‘n’ roll fame beckons.…. Manchester born Scott Bruton, one of this year’s X Factor finalists, stars in this brand new musical. Joining Scott is Ben Freeman who played the role of Scott Windsor for 10 years in ITV’s hit soap opera Emmerdale, Jennifer Biddall who played Jessica Harris in Hollyoaks, three new stars Daisy Wood-Davis, A J Dean and Emma Hatton who were hand picked from hundreds of hopefuls and David Cardy who is best known for his role as Chris Theodopolopodous in Birds of a Feather. Dreamboats and Petticoats comes to the Empire from Monday June 22 to Saturday June 27. To book call the box office 0844 847 2525* or go to www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*booking fee applies). 23/04/2009 10:47:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7447 After the outstanding success of Disney On Ice’s Finding Nemo at the end of last year, Disney On Ice is back! See this dazzling new ice show where secret wishes are revealed when Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes skates into the Echo Arena Liverpool 25-29 November. Through artistic skating and graceful acrobatics, Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes beautifully recreates the defining moments when seven Disney princesses’ wishes are fulfilled. With Tinker Bell as their guide, guests will see the inspiring stories of Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Mulan, Jasmine, Sleeping Beauty and Snow White and witness their wishes being granted and their dreams coming true. In this new touring show produced by Feld Entertainment, audiences will go where imaginations soar and anything can happen if they just believe. Ariel’s dreams are unlocked from under the sea and, in one magical moment, she finds happiness in an exploration above the waves. Mulan teaches inner strength, Jasmine discovers a whole new world and Snow White finds her one true love. This beautiful presentation also reveals Cinderella, Belle and Sleeping Beauty’s deepest wishes. Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes invites audiences to come along as Tinker Bell shows them the timeless tales of seven inspiring princesses. Focusing on the moments where the princesses’ dreams come true, the show uses high-energy music, glittering sets and dramatic choreography to make a truly breathtaking experience. Tickets are £11.50 to £33.50.  To book tickets log on to www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400.     23/04/2009 10:41:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7428 Direct from a sensational smash hit West End season, Little Shop of Horrors will be open for business at the Empire from May 4-9! The cast includes Clare Buckfield (Audrey), Alex Ferns (Dentist), Sylvester McCoy (Mushnik), Damian Humbley (Seymour), Cathryn Davis, Nadia Di Mambro, Donna Hines as Ronettes and Andy Heath as Puppeteer. Clare Buckfield has been a Dancing on Ice finalist. Her team won in the ITV Christmas Special on Christmas Day. She is most known for her TV roles in Steel River Blues and 2.4 Children. Alex Ferns has won many TV Awards for his portrayal of Trevor on EastEnders. He has appeared onstage in Michael Grandage’s production of Guys and Dolls and recently toured in Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. Sylvester McCoy was the seventh Doctor in the long-running BBC TV series of Doctor Who. His numerous stage roles include the Fool in the recent RSC production of King Lear with Ian McKellen. Down-and-out Skid Row floral assistant Seymour becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon “Audrey II” grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore offering him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite… but as Audrey II’s hungry demands increase, all that Seymour holds dear is threatened as the plant’s sinister agenda for global domination is revealed…. One of the longest-running off-Broadway shows of all time, this affectionate spoof of 1950s sci-fi movies has become a house-hold name, thanks to a highly successful film version and a score by the song writing team of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. They also wrote the music and lyrics for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty and The Beast and Aladdin. Tickets are £10.50 - £29.50.  To book call the box office 0844 847 2525* or go to www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*booking fee applies).   16/04/2009 10:36:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7420 Twelve “serious” medical blunders were made at Southport and Ormskirk Hospitals over the past year, a national newspaper has revealed. In one case a patient alleged feeling pain during an operation. The statistics were revealed by the Daily Mirror using the Freedom of Information Act.  From the 97 hospital trusts who replied  to the requests, more than 2,000 “serious untoward incidents” (SUIs) were listed. Aintree University Hospitals NHS Trust had 11 SUIs, including a patient being incorrectly identified and undergoing the wrong urological procedure, a wrongly-inserted chest drain puncturing a patient’s heart and a breathing tube being dislodged from a patient’s windpipe, leading to a fatal heart attack. The investigation blamed staff shortages and cost-cutting for the mistakes, which was denied by Aintree. A spokesman for Southport and Ormskirk Hospital confirmed the figures but did not wish to comment further. A spokesman for Aintree University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said they had a “robust system” for the reporting of patient safety incidents with a view to ensure lessons are learnt each time. He added: “Every serious untoward Incident instigates the Trust’s Being Open Policy and we ask family representatives to participate in a root cause analysis investigation. Staff are actively encouraged to report any incident, whether someone has suffered harm or not. Reporting helps identify problems, which enables us to work on solutions. “In each of the Serious Untoward Incidents reported staffing levels were not identified as a root cause of the incident.” The number of SUIs at each hospital trust ranged from none at two hospitals to 116 at North Staffordshire. A spokesman from the Patients’ Association said the accidents were “avoidable”. By Natasha Robson   15/04/2009 09:47:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7410 Sign of the Times: Liverpool Playhouse Sign of the Times tells the heart-warming story  of two characters who have let their ambitions pass them by and become lost in someone else’s idea of progress. Frank Tollit, played by Stephen Tomkinson, has spent the past 25 years of his life putting up signs on the outside of buildings. Having been led to believe he is a key part of the workforce at the hardware store where he is head of installation, Frank suddenly has to come to terms with the fact that the company is downsizing. Joined on the rooftop by work experience teenager Alan (Tom Shaw) who has put his own creative ambitions on hold to go out to work, Frank spends his last day in the only job he has ever known reflecting on how he has missed out on his true dream of becoming a writer. The duo, who at first appear to be like chalk and cheese, strike up an unexpected yet believable bond, but are surprised by the situation they are in when they meet again. It could be the timely subject of job cuts that makes the story and its characters so easy to relate to, yet writer Tim Firth, whose other works include Calendar Girls and The Flint Street Nativity, maintains a warm and funny approach throughout this feel-good comedy. Tomkinson, who is at home in lead roles having starred in TV shows including Wild at Heart, All Quiet on the Preston Front and the film Brassed Off, lived up to expectations with an excellent performance, whilst little-known actor Shaw was equally as impressive.   Review by Natasha Young   09/04/2009 11:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7409 Reunited eighties legends Spandau Ballet will perform at Liverpool’s Echo Arena this year, as part of their comeback world tour. The multi-platinum selling five piece, including Tony Hadley, John Keeble, Gary Kemp, Martin Kemp and Steve Norman, will play their hits True and Gold once again. The concert takes place on October 29. For tickets log on to www.echoarena.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400. Tickets are priced at £60 / £45 / £37.50 (all subject to booking and transactions fees).   09/04/2009 10:58:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7408 The ever-popular Solid Silver Sixties show comes to Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Monday April 27, 7.30pm. Featuring The Searchers, The Merseybeats, Wayne Fontana & very special guest John Walker of the Walker Brothers, the UK’s original and premier 60s show is back once again, now in its 24th year. Taking you back to the “Summer of Love” is the chart topping 60s pop group The Searchers, joining the tour for the 11th time. The influential foursome have notched up a run of over 18 hit records, including three number 1’s and the classic ‘Sweets For My Sweet’.  Also joining the show are Wayne Fontana, The Merseybeats and John Walker; all astoundingly talented and well respected artists from the era. With hits like ‘Um Um Um Um Um Um’, ‘Pamela Pamela’ and the epic ‘Game of Love’, Wayne remains a firm favourite.   The Merseybeats will be performing some of their greatest numbers including the million selling ‘I Think Of You’, ‘Wishin & Hopin’ and ‘I Love You Yes I Do’. John Walker was part of the brilliant Walker Brothers, he played on all the greatest numbers including ‘Love Her’, ‘Make It Easy On Yourself’, ‘My Ship Is Coming In’ and ‘Stay With Me Baby’.  Completing the impressive Solid Silver 60s line-up are The DAKOTAS performing the likes of their chart-topping hits "Bad to Me", "Little Children" and "Do You Want to Know A Secret." Tickets are £21.50, £19.50 & £17.50.  To book call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2380*, go to www.SouthportTheatre.org.uk* or call in to the Box Office open Monday-Saturday, 9.30am-5.30pm (*subject to booking fee).   09/04/2009 10:56:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7407 Members of the Crosby Symphony Orchestra, who come from all areas of Sefton and West Lancashire, are enjoying rehearsals for their Spring Concert, to be held in St Faith's Church, Waterloo (corner of Kingsway and Crosby Road North) on Sunday April 26, at 7.30. The evening begins with the Orb and Sceptre march, which was composed specially for the Queen's Coronation in 1953 by William Walton. It starts with bright trumpet fanfares before moving into the famous march section. Ravel orchestrated his “Mother Goose Suite” from his piano impressions of some nursery rhymes, including Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, and Tom Thumb. The first half concludes with Sibelius' Valse Triste, which was an instant hit with the public when it was first performed . It became one of his signature pieces and is still very popular today. For the second half of the concert, the mood changes as the orchestra moves to a Russian composer, Borodin, whose Second Symphony contains four movements of contrasting mood, colour and tempo, with a resplendent finale. The concert will be conducted by Robert Sells and tickets, priced at £7 and concessions £5 including a Programme, are available from Pritchard's Bookshop in Crosby village, or on the door.   09/04/2009 10:54:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7405 Following the sad and sudden death of original ELO member Kelly Groucutt recently, The Orchestra have decided to go ahead with their May tour in tribute to him. With original ELO past hit-makers Louis Clark and Mik Kaminski alongside ELO Part II founding member Eric Troyer, Phil Bates and Gordon Townsend, this will be a fitting tribute to Kelly and a show not to be missed. One of the most successful groups of the 70s & 80s, ELO spent a staggering 255 weeks on the singles chart and 393 weeks on the album charts; total worldwide sales are in excess of 100 million records, in the UK alone they had 27 top 20 hits, 11 top 10 albums including two Number Ones - “Discovery” and “Time.” ELO’s previous top ten hits include ‘Xanadu’ (featuring Olivia Newton John), ‘Roll Over Beethoven’, ‘Livin’ Thing’, ‘Mr Blue Sky’ and ‘Sweet Talkin’ Woman’.  The show comes to Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Wednesday May 20. For tickets call 0870 4000684 or go to www.southporttheatre.org.uk.   09/04/2009 10:52:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7396 A TALENTED dancer from Southport has landed a role in her favourite musical - Chicago. Laura Tyrer, 26, plays June in the famous show, that stars Jimmy Osmond as Billy Flynn and Eastenders’ Emma Barton as Roxy Hart. Laura joined the cast fresh from her West End role in Monty Python musical comedy Spamalot. Chicago is touring the country until the end of the year and comes to the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Monday 6 to Saturday 11 April. “I love it - it’s just such a brilliant show,” former Merchant Taylors' pupil Laura said. “It’s a bit hectic always moving from place to place but I don’t mind.  They are great people to work with and it is the show I always wanted to do.” The award-winning show is based on real life events back in the roaring 1920s.  Nightclub singer Roxie Hart shoots her lover and along with cellblock rival, double-murderess Velma Kelly, she fights to keep from death row with the help of smooth talking lawyer, Billy Flynn. Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago’s sexy, sassy score includes the showstoppers All That Jazz and Razzle Dazzle. Laura, who grew up in Ainsdale and began dancing at Loretto Bamber Dance Academy, is also an understudy for the part of Velma. “A lot of my family and friends are coming to see the show in Liverpool.  The Empire is a lovely theatre and we always have great audiences there,” Laura said. To book tickets for the show (£10-£33), call Ticketmaster on 0844 8472525 or go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk (booking fee applies). 02/04/2009 05:54:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7392 The Saturdays are set to go on their first headline tour this June at theatres across the UK. The ‘Work’ tour calls in at the Liverpool Empire on Monday 29 June, and tickets are on sale now. “I can’t believe we are about to go out on our first very own tour,” says Una Healy. “We hadn’t even released our debut single this time last year and nobody knew us. So many great things have happened and we can’t wait to go out and perform on our own headline tour.” The Saturdays are one of the success stories of the last year. In nine months, The Saturdays have had four top ten singles and a top ten album. Their current single, ‘Just Can’t Get Enough’ – in aid of Comic Relief – is set to give the girls their biggest hit to date.  Their debut album ‘Chasing Lights’ has now gone platinum. A new single will be released to coincide with the tour. To book call the box office: 0844 847 2525* or go to www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*24/7 - subject to booking fees)   02/04/2009 05:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7390 Road improvements are set to take place on the A59 Northway in Maghull. The works, on the northbound carriageway between Liverpool Road South and Damfield Lane, are set to start on Monday, April 6. Contractors for Sefton Council plan to complete the scheme within two weeks, and there will be no Bank Holiday works on Good Friday and Easter Monday. The project was due to take place sooner but was deferred to allow gas works to be completed in the area. It has also been timed to avoid any clash with the Grand National meeting at Aintree Racecourse. Temporary road closures will be in place at the Hall Lane and Damfield Lane junctions with signed diversions in place. Speed limits of 20mph will also be in place. For more information about transport issues in Sefton, visit sefton.gov.uk and click on the transport and streets link.   02/04/2009 05:37:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7383 New safety measures including padded jumps and additional run outs for riderless horses have been added to this year’s Grand National course. RSPCA equine consultant David Muir said he is delighted with the improvements after positive talks between the Society, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and the Aintree management team. “The RSPCA has monitored the Grand National for many years and we are thrilled that these new safety measures have been introduced. “Much has been done to make things better for horses in recent years, thanks to our positive dialogue with the managers of the Aintree course and also the BHA. “The Grand National is without doubt the most testing jump race in the world and as such will always be of concern to the RSPCA. We will continue to work with the race organisers and the BHA to look for areas where things can be further improved,” he said. New run outs at each fence mean horses will be able to exit the course once their jockey has been dismounted. Previously there were no obvious run outs between the first fence and Canal Turn. Work has also been done to angle the edges of the jump cores on the take-off side to help prevent injury to the horses. High quality padding has also been added to the jump cores for the same purpose. The RSPCA has previously been involved with the introduction of other safety improvements at Aintree. These include: · More forgiving chase fences, which are rounded, more inviting and have a clear toe boarder, making it easier for the horse and jockey to sight the approaching take off zone. · Improvements to Becher’s Brook, which now has a higher landing zone and a rubberised area over the ditch to help prevent injury. · A safer approach to Canal Turn by the re-positioning of the running rails to encourage jockeys to use more of the fence and creating more individual space for the horse to jump rather than bunching. · The provision of going no faster than good. David has also appealed to jockeys to pace themselves and their horses at the start of the Grand National, to ensure injuries are kept to a minimum. He said: “It is essential jockeys give plenty of thought to their speed at the start of a race. The Grand National is a long and difficult challenge for both horse and rider. The more tired a horse is, the more likely it is to make a mistake at a fence – and that’s when tragedies can happen.” 02/04/2009 05:08:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7380 For someone who only took up running nine months ago 13 year old Alistair Nelson has enjoyed a roller coaster ride to the top of his sport. The Liverpool Pembroke Sefton cross country runner has shown remarkable talent and composure. By finishing fourth in the English Schools Championships he qualified to represent England in the Aviva Siab International Cross Country Race in the beautiful surroundings of the Vaynol Country Estate near Bangor, North Wales. Up against the best from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland he made his usual cautious start but worked his way through the field climaxing with a storming sprint finish to close in sixth and third counter for the victorious England team. The Burscough Priory Science College pupil has astonished even his coach, John McCarten, with his progress and maturity. He is yet another outstanding product of the club`s Edge Hill University training squads.   Club sprinter Harry Doran who has also medalled while collecting an English Indoor vest this year has received a call up for the North of England team in their annual international match in Malta later in the month. The 400m runner is a student at Southport`s KGV College who recognise and support this talented athlete. He hopes to continue his studies next year at Edge Hill University. 01/04/2009 04:22:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7369 Having already captivated more than two million people in the USA, Blue Man Group’s ultimate concert experience How To Be A Megastar is hitting UK arenas in 2009, coming to the Echo Arena Liverpool on Wednesday May 20. The Blue Man Group will be presenting their perfect anarchistic instruction manual on gaining popularity in the modern world of music and beyond. Needless to say, the three seemingly emotionless, bald, glistening blue, mute men have taken with them all their self-crafted ensembles, together with Blue Man favourites such as whirlpool drumming, marshmallow throwing and paint spitting. In arenas, the multimedia show is in its element, with innovative components from surreal theatre, slapstick, video, lightshow and stimulating rock music. The Blue Man Group’s energetic tour production, "How To Be A Megastar", lays emphasis on dynamics, rhythm and audience participation. The figures, wrapped in blue-coloured latex, spread amusement and curiosity with their virtuoso tube-playing act, without words but with eyes open wide. The main motivation of the performance lies in working with bizarre percussion instruments and obscure ensembles - with a maze of pipes, the tubes. The Blue Man Group emerged from the New York underground art scene of the late 80s. In 1987, Matt Goldman, Phil Stanton und Chris Wink, while working for a catering company in Manhattan, started holding organised street-art events and performing in parks and clubs. At the legendary La Mamma Experimental Theatre Club, they produced their first show "Tubes". It was met with a rapturous response from both audiences and the media. The Blue Man Group moved to the Astor Place Theatre, where the show has been playing ever since. To book tickets log on to www.accliverpool.com or call the Echo Arena Box Office on 0844 8000 400. Tickets are priced at £39.50 and are subject to a handling / booking fee.   26/03/2009 12:50:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7368 Legendary rock band Status Quo will perform at Aintree Racecourse this summer. Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt and the band will play some of the greatest hits and fans' favourites from their back catalogue, which includes 75 singles and more hit albums than The Beatles had. Tickets are available for the June 12 show by logging on to www.aintree.co.uk or visiting the booking office at the racecourse. To purchase tickets over the phone call 0844 579 3001 from  April 6. Priced at £19 if purchased on or before May 29, and £24 after and on the night, admission includes a full evening of racing followed by the concert.   26/03/2009 12:46:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7367 Sefton's Theatre in the Rough Festival is now accepting script submissions from young playwrights from across the borough. Theatre in the Rough is a festival of new playwriting by 13-18 year-olds from across Sefton. Selected plays will be produced by a professional cast at Southport Arts Centre on 19 and 20 May. Writers must be aged between 13 and 18 and live in Sefton. Scripts should be no longer than 15 minutes in length. Plays should somehow be connected with some aspect of Sefton. Writers may work in groups if they wish. Plays should be emailed to info@theatreintherough.com by Thursday April 9. Full details and some playwriting tips are available on our website: www.theatreintherough.com The Theatre in the Rough Festival is funded by Express Sefton and Awards for All, and supported by Sefton and Halton Borough Councils.   26/03/2009 12:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7366 David Essex, together with Boogie Nights creator Jon Conway invite you onto a roller coaster ride of romance and rock and roll, underscored by a helter-skelter of David Essex hits and album favourites. All the Fun of the Fair is set around a travelling funfair, providing the focal point for a musical merry-go-round of love, loss, laughter and loyalty, all played out against a stunning score. David Essex stars in the role of funfair owner Levi Lee, who is coming to terms with the death of his wife and the attentions of another woman whilst struggling to deal with his rebellious teenage son’s tangled love life and ambitions. Danger and mysticism lurk in the future, as predicted by a gypsy fortune-teller if Levi changes his path. This moving story with a heartbreaking twist reaches out to every parent and anyone ever torn in love. There’s Rosa, played by acclaimed West End actress Louise English, who yearns for the attentions of Levi, and then, a generation on, there’s Levi’s son Jack. The producers are delighted to introduce Paul-Ryan Carberry in the role of Jack, a wild and wilful young man who’s very much his father’s son though he might not always see it himself. David Essex has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning concerts, records, theatre, composing, film and TV. All the Fun of the Fair comes to the Liverpool Empire Theatre on  April 13-18 at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinee 2.30pm .  Tickets are £10 - £30. Call the box office: 0844 847 2525* or go to www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*24/7 - subject to booking fees ). 26/03/2009 12:43:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7360 Southport Liberal Democrat MP John Pugh's full-time aide faces the sack after writing a "vicious" and "personal" public letter about a Tory councillor. Senior caseworker Tony Dawson wrote the letter, published in last week's Champion (March 18, 2009), about parliamentary candidate Brenda Porter, without the knowledge of his boss, MP John Pugh, who has distanced himself from the comments. Cllr Porter was distressed by the personal remarks and senior Tories have called for Mr Dawson to be sacked. “To be frank I was furious when I saw the letter in The Champion, even though it had been submitted by Mr Dawson in a personal capacity,” Mr Pugh said. “Tony is employed as a good and caring caseworker and understandably not to deal with the press. He himself regrets the intemperate, silly and offensive tone of the letter which I do not excuse or condone. “I cannot comment directly or publicly on any personnel matters or any subsequent procedures which are of course a matter of employment law.” The published letter, in response to Cllr Porter's claims in The Champion that some Lib Dems were ageist, was Mr Dawson's second submission. The first was rejected by the editor Martin Hovden for being “too personal”.  He invited Mr Dawson to amend his letter, which was again toned down before publication. In it, Mr Dawson suggested Cllr Porter was embarrassing and not “serious and capable”. Ironically, last week Mr Pugh revealed that “unnecessary nastiness and spite” made him angry. Formby Tory Cllr Barry Griffiths believes Mr Dawson should pay with his job – a view echoed by Sefton Tory group leader Cllr Paula Parry. “I want to challenge John Pugh to come from behind the smokescreen and sack this man forthwith,” Cllr Griffiths said. “If Mr Pugh doesn't, he is not fit to represent the people of Southport.  Mr Dawson is not doing Southport or the Lib Dems any good.” Friends of Cllr Porter said she had been very upset by Mr Dawson's comments, but she is determined to carry on with her work in the town. Cllr Porter said she has been “humbled” by the huge number of good wishes she has received from colleagues and members of the public who read the letter.  She has received flowers, cards, emails and texts offering support. The Champion has received a wealth of letters from the public and Tory councillors berating Mr Dawson's “nastiness”. Cllr Porter has the highest majority of any elected member in Sefton and will be Mr Pugh's main rival in next year's (2010) general election. When The Champion conatcted Mr Dawson did not wish to comment. Last year (2008) senior Lib Dem Cllrs Simon Shaw and Iain Brodie-Browne were accused by Tories of being "bully boys" when dealing with Cllr Porter. Both councillors strongly denied the accusation.  The Champion also revealed recently that Lib Dems were privately claiming that Cllr Porter is too old at 70 to be the town's next MP. By Natasha Robson  25/03/2009 06:29:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7333 Warning - don't read this review if your not open minded – I have to confess before you read on that I have written it about half a dozen times, one attempt after the other resulting in me deleting words, sentences and even full paragraphs that may offend, or seem vulgar. Sitting in the Liverpool Empire Theatre screaming out a word I have been banned from saying all my life was the strangest moment of my year so far....and the most exciting (I'm not sad – if you were there you'd know what I mean). Seeing the Vagina Monologues is like walking into an alternate universe – nothing is taboo – every possible word, sentence, cliché and expression is made on that stage – most of which every woman (and probably man) has thought of, but never said out loud. So – where do I start. Well, the title is pretty self explanatory, three women sit on stage and read out various monologues by women all over the world, they also reveal bizarre facts, stats and quirky answers to the most unusual of questions – all to do with the vagina. Does that sound inn poor taste? You have no idea – as I said I'm on attempt seven of writing a 'safe' review of a very on-the-edge play. Although the performance by Jennifer Ellison, Sue Jenkins and Cathy Tyson is a laugh a minute, there are some very serious issues touched on. Monologues were recited from women and young girls who have experienced some horrendous abuse in their lives, resulting in troubled and scary adulthoods and even relationships. The three women sitting on the no frills stage were engaging, intriguing and en lighting. And as for the men in the audience – they were very, very brave. I'd love to recite at least one of the facts or jokes from the evening – but suspect my editor wouldn't be too pleased (you guessed it – he's a man). This is a perfect girls night out show – see it before it leaves the area on Saturday. The Vagina Monologues runs at the Liverpool Empire until Saturday, March 21. For tickets call 0844 847 2525 or visit www.liverpoolempire.org.uk. Review by Rebecca Keegan 18/03/2009 06:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7318 A second night has been added to the 2009 Southport Summer Classics - Music in the Park. Organisers have announced that the incredible Magic of Motown tribute concert will take to the stage on Friday, July 24, to celebrate 50 years of Detroit's finest. The lavish production celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Tamla record company, which later became Motown Records, bringing the likes of the Temptations, Diana Ross and the Supremes, the Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, Martha Reeves, Smokey Robinson, Mary Wells, the Isley Brothers and Jimmy Ruffin to the world. A talented cast of 15 bring to life hits like; Get Ready, Stop in the Name of Love; My Girl; Dancing in the Street; Reach Out I’ll Be There; What Becomes of the Broken Hearted, Tears of a Clown, Ain’t Too Proud To Beg and many more. Sefton Council's Events Manager, Carolyn Lowry, said: "This is an absolutely incredible show and will be a lively addition to this year's line up. The 15-strong cast literally put their heart and soul into it with amazing performances and outrageous costumes. I am delighted that we have been able to secure The Magic of Motown for what will be a very memorable outdoor concert. "Southport's Summer Classics is always very popular so we are making the tickets available straight away so people can have the peace of mind that they will not miss out on this amazing concert. "The popular Saturday night performance from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will also be taking place so there is a lot to look forward to." Tickets for Magic of Motown at Southport Summer Classics - Music In The Park on Friday, July 24, cost just £13 if you book before the June 1, £17 after that date and £20 on the gate. They are available by calling 01704 540011 or go to www.visitsouthport.com  12/03/2009 12:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7317 After four magical years at the London Palladium and three sensational years touring large scale venues all over the UK, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is back and coming to Liverpool Empire Theatre from 27 June to 18 July 2010. Tickets are on sale now for this box office smash, that has been re-vamped, updated and technologically advanced in order to bring it to your doorstep. Directed by Adrian Noble this feel good family favourite will be a sure fire way to beat the blues next year. With a cast and crew of over 100 (including 10 dogs), sensational sets, a full orchestra and stunning special effects this action-packed adventure is the story of the magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, and his two children Jemima and Jeremy alongside Truly Scrumptious and Grandpa Potts, all try and outwit the dastardly Baron and the evil Child Catcher. Nominated for three Olivier Awards, winning Best Musical at the 2002 Variety Awards, nominated for five Tony Awards on Broadway, winning the coveted 2006 Manchester Evening News Theatre Award for Best Family Show and holding the Guinness World Record for the most expensive stage prop Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is guaranteed to be a wonderful experience for the whole family to enjoy. Strictly limited seasons in each venue so make sure you book your tickets today. There has never been a better show and a better time to cheer up your family! Empire Theatre General Manager, Hannah Collins, said: “We’re delighted to have this breathtaking, fantastic family show back at the Empire. Its 2006 run here was a huge hit and next year’s return visit is set to be even better.” For tickets (£17 - £38.50) call the box office on  0844 847 2525* or visit www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*subject to booking fee). 12/03/2009 12:43:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7316 Grab your scarf for a game of a lifetime with Nick Leather’s fast-paced coming of age story pulsing with all the excitement of Match Day. With more energy than a fast-paced match this new play, by one of the North West’s most prominent young writers, tells the story of young Billy who dreams of fame and fortune as a footballer. Directed by Serdar Bilis and with a cast that includes Liverpool actors Neil Caple and David Lyons, Billy Wonderful is playing in ‘the round’ at it’s home ground of the Everyman Theatre which is transformed into a football stadium to truly recreate the unique atmosphere of a Merseyside derby. Billy’s made the squad and it’s wonderful. He’s down the wing and he’s flying. He doesn’t believe in much, but he believes in this….in football. As the Blues and the Reds come out to play, it’s D day for Billy…Derby Day.  Will Billy keep his head or will he fall foul of fame and fortune? The play follows the highs and lows as one-time boy wonder, Billy Walters, relives the Merseyside Derby match that marked the turning point in his life. Those key moments in the match are mirrored with key events in Billy’s life over 22 years. Can Billy achieve his lifelong ambition of scoring the winner in the Derby, and is there really such a thing as life after football? The cast taking on various roles includes: Neil Caple, Rob Law, Michael Ledwich, David Lyons and Shaun Mason. Billy Wonderful is at the Liverpool Everyman from Thursday 12 March until Saturday 4 April 2009. Suitable for ages 12+. For tickets call 0151 7094776 or visit www.everymanplayhouse.com.   12/03/2009 12:41:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7315 Southport's MP is one of a group of senior politicians backing calls for the pub industry reconsider how the 'beer tie' works. Licensees who are 'tied' to a certain brewery can pay up to 50p more per pint for beer and the Government is calling on  pub chains, known as pubcos, to look again at how this works. Liberal Democrat John Pugh MP said a number of licensees in Southport have raised concerns about the tie. "You can't expect the Government to do something about this problem if [the industry] doesn't address this as well," he said. Neil and Jacky Hanson have run the Rabbit Inn on Manchester Road since June.  They say pubcos should be doing more to help smaller outlets compete with big chains who can offer cheaper beer and discount deals at supermarkets. "I would like to see more support from the brewery so smaller pubs can have a chance to compete," he said. "It is a bit galling  when you see in the press breweries saying they are helping pubs out as much as possible, when in reality they are not." Business has dropped around a quarter since the summer, a fact that Neil puts down to the smoking ban. "In the summer our beer garden was absolutely packed, but in winter people don't want to stand outside in the cold to smoke.  They can sit at home with a few cheap tins and smoke there," he said. "I can understand in a pub that does a lot of food you would not want people smoking there, but I don't think a ban is necessary in all pubs." John Pugh MP is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group, aiming to keep local pubs open. In Southport eight pubs have closed since 2005. By Natasha Robson   12/03/2009 12:39:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7295 Happy Mondays star Bez will be DJ-ing at Southport's Apres nightclub on Friday March 6. Tickets for the event at the club on West Street are priced at £4 and should be bought in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available from Apres during opening hours or all day from the Wellington pub on Eastbank Street. 05/03/2009 11:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7294 Thriller - Live is a spectacular, high-octane concert specially created to celebrate the career of the world's greatest entertainer and undisputed King of Pop - Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5. It is moonwalking from the West End to the Liverpool Empire Theatre from Monday 9 - Saturday 14 March. Throughout the show the non-stop hits just keep on coming, with “I Want You Back”, “I'll Be There”, “Show You The Way To Go”, “Can You Feel It”, “Rock With You”, “She's Out Of My Life”, “Thriller”, “Beat It”, “Ben”, “ABC”, “Man in the Mirror”, “Dirty Diana”, “Billie Jean”, “Earth Song”, and many, many more. The cast includes Pop Idol finalist Hayley Evetts, who came to the nation’s attention in the same contest as Gareth Gates and Will Young. To bring to life on stage the distinctive high-energy dancing and pulsating sound of many of pop’s greatest hits, Thriller - Live blends eye-popping video footage and effects together with dazzling choreography by the show’s award-winning director Gary Lloyd. Thriller - Live was originally conceived and created by Executive Director of the show, Adrian Grant, a long time associate of Michael Jackson, and author of ‘Michael Jackson – The Visual Documentary’. Tickets, priced £12.50 to £28.50, are available from the box office on 0844 847 2525* or www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk* (*24/7 - subject to booking fees).   05/03/2009 11:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7290 Therapists and volunteers at the Sefton Cancer Support Group are raising as much money as possible to find a new centre. The charity, currently based on Liverpool Road, Formby, where they offer non-medical support to those affected by cancer, including social events and holistic treatments including aromatherapy, acupuncture, chiropody and reflexology, is being forced to move as the future of their current site is unclear. The charity, which receives NHS Sefton funding to help pay bills, is able to pay rent for the new location but needs money for fixtures and fittings to make it suitable to continue the service, which is used by a turnover of people from Southport to Bootle. Therapist Jan Ord told Champnews.com:“I just don't want to see it go. “We have people who come here and say they walk in and their worries are cast aside. We don't talk about their problems.” Jan managed to raise more than £750 for the cause by taking part in her own fundraising event at the weekend. The 56-year-old took part in a sponsored sofa sit at Formby's Cross House pub on Sunday (March 1,2009), where she joined firefighter Paul Graham to remain seated from 11am until 11pm, with just two 10-minute breaks. The duo collected lists of sponsors and kept a collection bucket at their side on the day. Bar staff also donated their tips to help. Jan described the event as “absolutely wonderful” and said: “The challenge wasn't bad, I did really well and I didn't have my first break until 6.50pm.” Anyone who would like to make a donation to help the Sefton Cancer Support Group with their move can call 01704 879352, or visit the centre at 88 Liverpool Road, Formby between 10am and 4pm from Monday to Friday. Suggestions of any rented accommodation which could be used as a new location for the centre are also welcome. The group are preferably looking for a three-bedroom house or bungalow. By Natasha Young 04/03/2009 07:24:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7278 She has an extraordinary talent, millions of fans, exciting new television challenges ahead, a second best-selling book out soon…and a nationwide non-stop box office-busting tour to deliver! Following her very own TV series – ‘Sally Morgan Star Psychic’ on National TV, Sally, the stars psychic goes on national tour for the first time. As a highly respected medium, Sally has become a close and trusted friend of top show business celebrities and Royalty alike. Famously, she has read for George Michael, Uma Thurman, Robert DeNiro and most notably the late Princess Diana. What’s more, her amazing readings are just as accurate face-to-face, over the telephone and even over the internet! Sally had her first psychic experience when she was just nine months old and saw her first ghost when she was only four years of age. Since then she has been using her gift to read people’s past and predict their futures. She can also see, hear and speak to the dead with astonishing results. Sally brings her show to Southport Theatre and Convention Centre on Thursday March 12 at 7.30pm. For tickets (£17.50) call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2380* or book online at www.southporttheatre.org.uk* (*booking fee applies). 26/02/2009 12:02:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7277 Get your dancing shoes on because Southport is hosting this year's Salsa Kingdom. Some of the world's finest Salsa groups and dancers will be strutting their stuff in the resort for only the second ever Salsa Kingdom Festival. Southport Theatre and Convention Centre, The Arts Centre and The Prince Of Wales Hotel will play host to the UK‘s Ultimate Latin music and Dance Festival with more than 2,000 people set to attend. The Theatre will be showing 'The Magic Of Salsa Kingdom' a new musical from New York with iconic artists and dancers plucked from the stages of Broadway, Hollywood, and the cream of world Latin Dance Champions. There is also dancing in the Floral Hall and over 60 Dance workshops from international instructors in the Prince Of Wales Hotel and The Arts Centre. Salsa Kingdom will take place from September 18 -20 and is just another major coup for the Convention Centre. Already big names such as Grammy nominated band 'The New Swing Sextet' and World Salsa Champions Tito and Tamara from Dirty Dancing have confirmed they will be heading to the resort. Southport Theatre and Convention Centre recently enjoyed a complete refurbishment as part of a £40 million investment programme. The impressive venue also boasts a link through to the newly built Ramada Plaza Hotel which is immediately adjacent. Maxine McCarthy, Conference and Corporate Sales Manager for Sefton Council, said: "We are delighted that Salsa Kingdom have chosen Southport as a destination. "Salsa Kingdom is a vibrant event which attracts both national and international dancers. It is also open to the general public so anyone can get their dancing shoes on, take part in classes, watch the 'Salsa Showcase' or just dance until dawn. "It will be held at a number of venues across Southport and will attract more than two thousand people with the majority of these taking up accommodation in the town. This in turn will generate thousands of pounds for the local economy. "The Southport Theatre and Convention Centre is fast becoming a fantastic place for the complete conference experience and we are constantly attracting new business as well as building on our existing clientele who use our facilities." The following week sees The International Brotherhood of Magicians, a 1,000 delegate plus convention, casting their spell on Southport with a week long series of workshops and magic shows. For more details on Southport Theatre and Convention Centre visit www.visitsouthport.com or www.southportconferences.com. For more information on the Salsa Kingdom event visit www.salsakingdom.co.uk. 26/02/2009 12:01:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7274 A Crown prosecutor is getting used to life in the public eye after appearing on four episodes of a BBC2 gameshow last week. Andy Page was a member of the Quizzee Rascals team on Battle of the Brains, presented by Nicky Campbell. He says he has had a great reaction from colleagues at Southport Magistrates Court, where he has been working this week, as well as being stopped twice in the street by strangers. “It's been really nice,” assistant prosecutor Andy, from Crosby, said. “I really enjoyed the show, despite losing all four of my individual rounds.  I think I was unlucky to lose some of them, but it seems like I am the only person in the country who didn't know the musical based on Madame Butterfly is Miss Saigon. “That's the thing with quizzes - you either know the answer or you don't.” In the show the team captain must pick individuals to compete against a member of the rival team on a certain subject, before going through to a knock-out round.  The winning team gets the chance to win £1,000 and the captain must answer a question correctly for the team to return the next day. Former Mastermind champion Andy is a member of the Old Dog team in the Merseyside Quiz League, who, with team mates from Formby, Maghull and Wigan, play at the pub of the same name in Up Holland. He won £1,000 on Battle of the Brains, but says it can't compete with the prestige of the Mastermind title. Andy has also appeared on various TV game shows since 1982, including University Challenge and 15 to 1. “People keep telling me I should go on Millionaire, but it's very hard to get on it,” Andy said. “This is the first gameshow I've been on in three or four years but it has definitely given me the bug again.” By Natasha Robson 25/02/2009 06:28:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7262 Ballet fans were given a first-class treat last week with a superb performance of Coppelia at Liverpool's Empire Theatre. Presented by Ellen Kent and Ballet International, the Russian Classical Ballet Theatre staged a production of Leo Delibes' magical work which blended traditional dance with a stylish setting. Following the original 19th century choreography by Arthur Saint-Leon, award-winning Russian prima ballerina Kristina Terentieva took the lead role of Swanilda, and her performance exuded class and effortless delicacy. Partner Alexei Terentiev had relatively little to do as Frantz, but the whole cast, including a corps de ballet from the Elliott Clarke School threw themselves into the show with gusto, Some of the ensemble dancing could perhaps have benefited from more rehearsal time, but there was no denying the infectiously joyful exuberance of the performers. The costumes and sets were beautiful and the live orchestra under the baton of Vitaly Kutsenko was outstanding. Champ verdict: 4/5 A delightful evening. Review by Mike Montgomery The Empire is currently staging Bill Kenwright's acclaimed production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's Joseph, with Antony Hansen, from BBC TV’s ‘Any Dream Will Do’ in the title role, and Tara Bethan from BBC TV’s ‘I’d Do Anything’ as narrator. The run ends this Saturday, February 21. Next week sees the return of Buddy the Musical, from Monday February 23. See www.liverpoolempire.org.uk 19/02/2009 09:45:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7261 After wowing audiences in 2006 with Swan Lake on Ice, the world-famous Imperial Ice Stars, who have won international critical acclaim and a host of five-star reviews, are back at the Liverpool Empire once more with their brand new production, Cinderella On Ice, which is at the theatre from 3-7 March 2009. So far more than two million people across five continents have greeted The Imperial Ice Stars’ adrenaline infused performances with standing ovations. The Imperial Ice Stars have performed at many of the world’s most prestigious venues. Cinderella on Ice, their third production, continues to break new ground in the genre of ice dancing. Stunning skating feats, some only seen in Olympic arenas and some never attempted before, are performed within the confines of a frozen theatre stage, including breathtaking high speed throws and incredible lifts and lift sequences. Producer James Cundall, Chief Executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, explains: “By giving these exceptionally talented skaters the freedom to experiment outside competitive skating, while working alongside some of the top figure skating coaches in the world, we are able to take ice choreography to new limits.” The show incorporates stunning three-dimensional scenery depicting a Siberian village square and a black and silver art deco theatre, magical special effects, including fire and rain; flying and state of the art projection. In this new interpretation of a classic tale, The Imperial Ice Stars tell the story of Cinderella, a humble chorus dancer who is thrust into the spotlight as a prima ballerina and captivates the handsome Lord Mayor’s son, the most eligible bachelor in town, with her graceful performance. Despite rival attempts by her stepsisters to steal his heart, the kindly Watchmakers and Gypsy Fortune Teller ensure that true love triumphs. For tickets (£13.50 - £28.50, discounts available) call 0844 847 2525 or go to www.liverpoolempire.org.uk 19/02/2009 08:46:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7260 If you need a pick-me-up from the winter blues and a break from the credit crunch then Southport Theatre has just the night for you. The brand new production of The Ultimate Juke Box Party promises to give you a feel-good night to remember featuring more than 60 of everyone’s favourite songs, including ABBA, Elvis, Queen, Buddy Holly, The Beatles and Elton John. The show is produced and hosted by former television heavyweight wrestling star Neil Sands who said: “Being aware of the current financial situation I thought everyone needs a feel good night out to lift their spirits so by putting so many songs from so many popular stars in one show it also makes it a value for money night out as well. “We have a brilliant five-piece party band, two sensational female singers and when you mix that with a large helping of fun, stunning costumes and non-stop great music we have a night that will lift anyone's spirits.” The Ultimate Juke Box Party is on Friday February 27 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15.50 (concessions and Live Card £1.50 off). To book call Ticketmaster 0844 847 2380* or book online at www.SouthportTheatre.org.uk* (*subject to booking fee). 19/02/2009 08:35:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7259 A Maghull filmmaker has attracted the attention of Hollywood execs just days after posting a cartoon on YouTube. Steve Jones, who wrote, produced and directed the "Welcome to Hosieryville" animation, has been invited to submit an entry to the Los Angeles "AniMazing Spotlight" Online Film Festival  and has been inundated with compliments from some of the most influential animation executives in Hollywood. He is now looking to create a unique TV series based on the simple quirky format, that reveals what really happens to those socks that get lost in the wash. "We had no idea it would be this successful," Steve, of Xenon Media Group, said. "It was an ultra low budget concept that snowballed through word of mouth on the internet overnight." “We set out to develop and create local Merseyside based moving image works, and this particular project was cast and crewed completely with local staff and creative artistes. “From the superb original artwork put together for us by Stuart Harrison in Birkdale, to the wonderful help and assistance we received from the brilliant engineers at Sandhills Studios, just about everyone we wanted we found here in our own home town. And we couldn't have wished for nicer people to work with." Steve has a meeting arranged with an agent who works regularly with Nickleodeon, The Disney Channel, The Cartoon Network and MTV. The pilot episode "Welcome to Hosieryville" can be seen on YouTube.com, but the full story can be viewed at www.sockland.tv where comments can be left to offer feedback. By Natasha Robson 19/02/2009 08:29:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7257 Marks and Spencer have opened a new 39,000 sq ft store in Aintree. The branch, at the Racecourse Retail Park, has created 126 new jobs for the area and features a homeware and fashion departments, a Food Hall and an 80-seat café. It also incorporates a number of initiatives in line with the chain's five-year eco plan, Plan A, including cycle racks, energy efficient escalators and lighting, dual flush toilets and self-closing taps. Stylists, personal shoppers, cooking demonstrators and a DJ helped celebrate the opening, and store manager Janice Hall officially cut the ribbon. She said: “We’re delighted to have opened a new store in Aintree, bringing the very best M&S products to our customers in the area for the first time.” 18/02/2009 05:50:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7242 A major recruitment drive is now underway in the run up to this year's John Smith's Grand National. More than 2000 catering jobs are available for the Aintree Racecourse meeting on April 2-4 (2009), which is one of the UK's biggest sporting and social events. Catering providers Letheby and Christopher, part of Compass Group UK and Ireland, are looking for  managers, chefs, kitchen porters and waiting and bar staff, and are hoping to 'keep it local'. Recruitment days take place this Saturday (February 14, 2009) from 10am to 4pm, and February 19 from 12noon to 8pm at Liverpool's Adelphi Hotel, Ranelagh Place. Applicants will need to take their bank details, passport and National Insurance number to the recruitment days. For further information call 0151 525 5939. 11/02/2009 06:48:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7233 In celebration of the release of the first official new album in over 30 years, The Drifters are back on tour in the UK with an exciting new show. The ‘Five Decades and Moore Tour’ is coming to The Southport Theatre in Southport on Tuesday March 3 as part of a 50 date UK Tour. As one of the biggest selling bands of all time, The Drifters have collated a huge catalogue of over 50 hits, selling in excess of 214 million singles and 114 million albums across the world. Since their creation, the line up of The Drifters has undergone many changes with more than 55 different singers, including icons such as Ben E King,  Rudy Lewis and Charlie Thomas each of whom was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. This energetic show features the only legitimate Drifters line up in the world, accompanied by world class musicians and a stunning visual presentation of unseen footage from the last 50 years of The Drifters’ fabulous, hit-filled history. The line up will of course perform the timeless classics such as ‘Saturday Night at the Movies,’ ‘Under The Boardwalk,’ ‘Come On Over To My Place’ and ‘Kissing In The Back Row of the Movies.’ The show also features a whole host of new material from the stunning new album to be released in 2009. The album is entitled ‘Five Decades and Moore named in honour of the longest serving group member, Johnny Moore, who died ten years ago. Tickets for the 7.30pm show cost £20 (£18 concessions).  Call  Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2380 or visit www.southporttheatre.org.uk   05/02/2009 11:39:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7232 Maghull's Town Mayoress, Sefton and Maghull Councillor Sylvia Mainey, made an impassioned plea to Sefton when she awoke to see Gainsborough Avenue,outside her home, covered in compacted snow and ice. Because twice each day, Gainsborough Avenue and Old Racecourse Road at the bottom of it, see 14 school buses for pupils at Maghull High School use this relatively narrow residential road and Sylvia feared not only for the safety of the children, but also for residents' parked cars. When the pre-Christmas freeze hit the area, she e-mailed Sefton pointing out that Gainsborough and Old Racecourse Road with its steep junction with Sefton Lane should be a priority for gritting if snow or ice was forecast. So she was horrified last Friday when she received Sefton's 'gritting list'. "I looked - and Gainsborough Avenue wasn't on it!" she said.  "We have 12 double-deck buses down here to the school gates twice a day, plus two buses for disabled children. I e-mailed Sefton again on Friday when I had seen the list but still nothing was done." At 11am the situation was unchanged and her husband, Mayor Councillor Cliff Mainey, asked Maghull Town Hall staff to phone Sefton and ask them to clear Gainsborough Avenue and Old Racecourse Road as a matter or urgency. By Jim Sharpe 05/02/2009 11:34:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7220 Flashdance The Musical opened at the Liverpool Empire on Monday and the audience were certainly left dazzled by the show – and even a little hot under the collar. The story of 18-year-old Alex, welder by day and Flashdancer by night, is a really uplifting tale about how young people achieve their dreams – no matter where they come from or what hurdles stand in the way. The box office hit film and soundtrack What a feelin' have pushed Flashdance  to an iconic standing – and the live show certainly didn't disappoint as we follow Alex Owens on her journey to obtain a place at the Shipley Dance Academy. With brilliant choreography and dancers nothing short of spectacular this show is one to really get your pulse racing (and for the boys if that doesn't do it the costumes certainly will). Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, who plays star of the show (Alex), gives a brilliant performance. Her talent seems endless as she seamlessly drifts from the gritty edgy side of the character to the young and ambitious but scared young girl who worries that throwing herself at her dream may result in her failing. Victoria is hugely talented with her singing, acting and amazing dance skills she is a true star. Noel Sullivan, from flop band Hear'say (trumps to the one to remember one of their songs), plays our hero Nick Hurley – and it's obvious he is very at home on the live stage – who knew he could sing? Noel does a fantastic job of making the audience – or at least the women – fall for him, with his charm, sincerity and, of course, dashing good looks. Bernie Nolan (surprise she's at the Empire yet again) was the perfect choice to play Alex's pushy mother Hannah. From their first scene together we can see what we have all experienced at some point – a pushy mother with a big heart. The relationship between Hannah and Alex really draws the audience in – with the daughter pesters her mum to stop smoking, while the proud mother pesters the daughter to follow her dream. Clear audience favourites in the show are the sexy threesome Gloria, Jazmin and Keisha who work with Alex at Mawby's Bar where they dance. The three are fun, energetic, sassy and brilliant on stage. They have everyone watching the show in the palm of their hand straight away – and the guys who were dragged along my their wives suddenly stopped complaining about missing the football. A huge congratulations must got to musical director of the evening Dave Rose, who led the orchestra and did a perfect job of it. Flashdance The Musical has everything, it's gritty, sexy, it brings tears of happiness and grief and you will toe tapping by the end of the first act. See it now before it hits the West End and tickets get expensive! Flashdance The Musical runs at the Empire Theatre until Saturday, January 31. Tickets 0844 8472525  www.LiverpoolEmpire.org.uk  ChampVerdict – 4/5 – What a feelin! Review by Rebecca Keegan 29/01/2009 09:17:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7219 Fresh from his pantomime season at the Liverpool Empire, comedian and TV presenter Les Dennis went down a storm when he visited Year 2 children in their classroom at Summerhill Primary School last Friday. Les agreed to come to talk to the youngsters after an invite from his six-year-old nephew. Max Smith-O'Neil, a member of Antonia Warning's class. He had starred in Cinderella alongside another much-loved Liverpudlian, Cilia Black. He perched on a desk at the front of the class and faced a barrage of questions from his keen audience - each member of the class had prepared a question for him.   Les quipped:   "I've always loved football but I was never very good - which is why I became an entertainer! Really, I do love the game. I'm a Liverpool FC fan but I do like it if Everton wins (unless they're playing Liverpool) because it's good for the city." Anyway,  following his inquisition,  we now know that Les' favourite food is spaghetti (with lots of chilli), that he lives in Alexandra Palace in London near where the first TV broadcast was transmitted - and that he always wanted to go on stage. "As a boy, my favourite programme was 'Sunday Night at the London Palladium'. Now I enjoy TV work and being on stage as well," he said. And he really enjoyed hosting 'Family Fortunes' - with the opportunity tio meet very different people and hear the hilarious answers some made to questions.  He drives a VW Golf, his favourite colour in blue (because red doesn't suit his fair hair), he thinks it good to feel nervous before any performance because it helps you to concentrate - and when you earn good money it' s always a good idea to put some aside for a rainy day when you're not working. And Les has a direct connection with the Aintree and Maghull Champion's area too. In fact, we have this area to thank for his very first public performance as an entertainer - at the then Melling Ratepayers' Club! On a slightly more serious note, Les told the children: "Fame is nice. You are able to talk to people and they are interested in what you have to say. But fame is not the -most important thing in life. My advice to you is to do something because you enjoy doing it rather than just to get famous." And he told his junior audience: "I've had a lot of fun here!" - and promised to visit Summerhill School again in May to talk to the class about their project on 'Famous People'. By Jim Sharpe 29/01/2009 06:49:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7218 A new helpline offering advice on dementia has been launched by a Southport care home. Experienced dementia care staff at Birch Abbey will offer advice on the condition, its impact and available support options. The iPersonally HelpLine is available to all local people, not just Birch Abbey clients, and aims to help the family and friends of people living with dementia. The helpline is open from Monday to Friday at 9.30am-3.30pm, with an answering machine in operation outside of those hours. Call the iPersonally HelpLine on 01704 885050.  By Natasha Young 29/01/2009 06:38:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7206 Folk fans are in for a real treat this year as a plethora of musicians are on the bill for Folkport 09. Following 2008's hugely-successful Folkport event, the 2009 concert at Southport Arts Centre is expected to be just as popular. Featuring BBC Folk Awards-nominated artists, the event - which takes place on Saturday, February 14 - is sure to be a real show-stopping event for fans of folk music. Mawkin Causley have been nominated for Best Group and Phil Beer from Show of Hands has been nominated for Musician of the Year. Both will perform at Folkport 09, along with The Kathryn Tickell Band, Wheeler Street, Ranarim, The Anna Massie Band, Ruth Notman, and The Bothy Folk Club with guests, Scold’s Bridle and Roger Wilson. All-day tickets are £30 or £28 for concessions and Bothy Club members. Tickets for the afternoon concert only are £14 and tickets for the Evening Concert and 'After Hours Extra' are £18. Southport Arts Centre will also welcome Eliza Cathy on Friday, May 1, 2009, who has been nominated for three titles at the BBC Folk Awards. She is in the running for Folk Singer of the Year, Best Album for Dreams of Breathing Under Water, and Best Original Song for Mr Magnifico. The winners of the BBC Folk Awards 2009 will be announced on Monday, February 2. For further information about Folkport 09 or Eliza Carthy call Southport Arts Centre box office on 01704 540011 or log onto www.seftonarts.co.uk, or www.bothyfolkclub.co.uk 21/01/2009 07:01:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7205 Lovers of classical music will be delighted to hear of the upcoming performance by Ludovic Morlot, Paul Lewis and the BBC Philharmonic at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester. French conductor Ludovic Morlot, who originally trained as a violinist and studied under Sir Colin Davis at the Royal Academy, later won a fellowship to the Royal College of Music. Having been Assistant Conductor at the Tanglewood Music Centre from 2004-2007, he will this year return to the New York Philharmonic, Rotterdam Philharmonic and Chicago Symphony, with whom he regularly works. Pianist Paul Lewis has recently won great critical acclaim for his recent cycle of Beethoven sonatas, including a Classic FM Gramophone Award. Born in Liverpool, Lewis as performed with the BBC Philharmonic several times in the past, and they are delighted to welcome him back, when he will be performing Mozart's wistful final piano concert, K595. The programme opens with Stravinsky's spirited Fireworks and is followed by Sir Harrison Birtwistle's Night's Black Bird, inspired by a lute song of John Dowland to conjure up a distinctly nocturnal atmosphere. The second half of the concert continues the Orchestra's Neglected Genius strand with a performance of Duka's La Peri, a little-known ballet score based on a Persian myth about the dance of a fairy who is too beautiful to die. The prorgramme will close with Ravel's thrilling orchestral show-piece, La Valse. The concert begins at 7pm on Saturday January 24. Full price tickets cost between £9 to £31, with discounts and concessions available. They can be purchased from the Bridgewater Hall on 0161 907 9000 or on-line at www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk   21/01/2009 07:00:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7204 A musical feast awaits the audience at Southport Arts Centre this month as Blue Blokes 3 take to the stage. The trio - who perform with several instruments including the banjo, guitar, saz and mandolin - will appear at the Lord Street venue on Saturday, January 24, at 8pm. Formed as an impromptu folk club trio to pay tribute to Shirley Collins after she was awarded an MBE, Blue Blokes 3 are a bunch of old friends, each with a lengthy musical history. The line-up is Ian Anderson on vocals, guitar and slide guitar; Lu Edmonds (vocals, cumbus, saz, guitar and more) and Ben Mandelson, vocals, mandolin, baritone bouzouki, banjo, tenor guitar, guitar and more. Blue Blokes 3 are described as having a contemporary sound of blues and string bands of the 1960s. Ben Mandelson and Lu Edmonds are best known as members of 3 Mustaphas 3 and Billy Bragg's Blokes. At the Southport gig, they are joined by journalist and musician Ian Anderson for a cheerful, twanging acoustic work-out, playing anything from guitars to mandolin, bouzouki and saz on a set that ranges from reworkings of Mississippi Fred McDowell and Louis Jordan to English traditional material. They will be supported by Manchester-based US songwriter Zoe Mulford. Tickets cost £8 or £6 for concessions, available by calling the Southport Arts Centre box office on 01704 540011 or by logging onto www.seftonarts.co.uk   21/01/2009 06:55:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7203 Parents of anti-social youngsters must shoulder some of the blame for their childrens' actions. So says police insp Kevin Booth, who announced a crack down on anti social behaviour in the Aintree Village and Melling areas last week.  "I want to give parents a 'heads up'," he told the Champion. "If we stop kids who are carrying on with ASB and criminal damage I am going to be going to parents and hold them responsible.  Anti social behaviour is high on the list of things local people want to see tackled - and we are determined to tackle the issue," said the inspector. He said that acting in liaison with Sefton's ASB Unit, parents of unruly youngsters can expect a visit from the police. "Should bad behaviour continue we will send out warning letters as a last resort before applying for as ASBO," he said. Aintree parish councillor Terry Baldwin, who is also Chairman of the local Homewatch scheme, told the Champion that since the area ceased to be under a 'Section 30' order (which gives police the power to break up gatherings of people) expired last year there had been an increase in anti social behaviour in the area. by Jim Sharpe 21/01/2009 06:22:00 http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=7192 A 78-year-old woman has died following a collision with a parked car and a garden wall in Maghull. Irene Bradley from Burscough was travelling in a Y-reg Fiat Punto along Eastway when the incident took place on January 6