Knowsley Council

Issue 5 Spring 2006

www.knowsley.gov.uk

A COUNCIL MAGAZINE FOR RESIDENTS OF HALEWOOD, HUYTON, KIRKBY, PRESCOT, WHISTON AND SURROUNDING AREAS

NUMBER’S UP FOR MOBILES

NUMBER’S UP FOR MOBILESCouncillors back school phone ban

PLUS

BOROUGH’S EMPLOYMENT DRIVE LATEST ON HUYTON’S NEW SHOPSWIN GRAND NATIONAL TICKETS

PLUS

BOROUGH’S EMPLOYMENT DRIVE LATEST ON HUYTON’S NEW SHOPSWIN GRAND NATIONAL TICKETS

E2958 Knowsley_FINAL 1/3/06 2:47 pm

in this issue

5

Knowsley News is produced by KnowsleyCouncil four times a year and distributed to all households in the borough. The nextedition will be published in June. If you have any comments or feedback – or wouldlike to write a letter for publication – pleasecontact the editor, Gareth Roberts, at:Knowsley News, Municipal Buildings, PO Box 21, Huyton, Knowsley, L36 9YU.Tel: 0151 443 3397. Fax: 0151 443 3507. Email: [email protected].

Edited, designed and printed byLimehouse www.limehouse.co.uk

Knowsley News is also available in other formats includingBraille, large print and audiotape. If you are registered blind orvisually impaired you should receive an audiotape version of themagazine. Telephone customer services on 0151 443 3197or email: [email protected]

Regulars

News 4, 5, 6, 7

My Knowsley 12Writer and poet, Dave Kirby

Memory Lane 13From Flicks to Pharmacy – when Huyton had a cinema

What’s On 15

Your health 18Helping drug users kick the habit

Ask the expert 19A Knowsley licensing officer answers your questions

Sport 22

Competition 24Win tickets to theGrand National

Features

Building a career 8in Knowsley Focus on job schemes

Get Active 10Highlighting investmentin leisure

Digital TV 21Access services with your remote control

Welcome

Hello and welcome to Knowsley News.

This issue we focus on importantwork which will change thousandsof people’s lives in the borough forthe better.

Much has been done to improvethe employment rate in Knowsleyand the launch of the Employmentand Skills Strategy, highlighted inthe Round Your Way section, canonly help to build on that.

One of the aims of the strategy, a first for Knowsley and the country,is to help people on incapacity anddisability benefit in the mostdeprived parts of the borough.

We know there are people whowant to work but think theirpersonal circumstances will preventthem doing so. And there are otherswho simply don’t know where to gofor advice.

This strategy will see the councilworking with employers to see ifthey can help residents in thissituation, maybe by adapting theirworkplace or just by offeringsomeone the chance to rebuildconfidence and self-esteem.

This will help us achieve our goalto raise employment levels inKnowsley to 70% by the end of 2010.

I visited the registered charityKnowsley START in Huyton and wasamazed by the dedication andcommitment of the staff. They boast asuccess rate of 78% for getting peoplewho are referred to them intoeducation and employment –something they deserve a huge pat onthe back for.

All this work is just anotherexample of how people from theborough are working hard to pushback the boundaries and makeKnowsley an even better place to live.

Cllr Ron RoundLeader of Knowsley Council

8

1113

2312


News

Lotto joyEMPLOYEES from St Mary’s Day Care Centrein Halewood recentlyscooped a Lotto jackpot of £530,969. The 21-strongsyndicate includedvolunteers, carers,administrative staff andmanagement. They boughtthe winning ticket atThreshers, Leathers Lane,Halewood.It’s a double joyfor the centre, which hasbenefited from a numberof Lottery grants over thelast four years, totallingmore than £1m.

Have your sayMEET local councillors,council officers and peoplefrom other partnerorganisations at the latestround of Community Area Forums. All meetings start at 6pm:14 March: North KirkbyArea Forum, Kirkby Suite.15 March: North HuytonArea Forum, Huyton Suite21 March: South KirkbyArea Forum, Kirkby Suite.22 March: South HuytonArea Forum, Huyton Suite.28 March: Halewood AreaForum, Halewood College.29 March:Prescot/Whiston AreaForum, Prescot LeisureCentre.

Facelift in KirkbyRESIDENTS have given thethumbs up to a clean-upscheme in Kirkby, afterfeedback said they hadnoticed a ‘definiteimprovement’.The Faceliftcampaign ran for eightweeks and included graffitiremoval, weed scraping,footpath sweeping and litterpicks. Council officers,neighbourhood wardens andmembers of the communityall pitched in as part of theKnowsley Pride campaign,which aims to makeKnowsley the cleanest,greenest borough in thecountry. Plans are now beingmade to extend thecampaign to other parts ofthe borough.

Borough in brief

PUPILS at Brookside CommunitySchool in Stockbridge Villagewere amongst the first to gogreen in a new recycling initiative– Recycling Rewards for Schools.

Knowsley Council is offeringprizes for primary schools whosepupils encourage family andfriends to pledge to recycle.Pledges are rewarded with pointsthat can be exchanged for TVs,projectors, cameras,computers andmusicalinstruments.

Pupils weregiven finger andwrist bands andvouchers fortheme parks forpledges. Lakes forsix pledges. Thepupil who collectsthe most pledgesis rewarded with amini MP3 player.

Cllr Bob Swann, KnowsleyCouncil’s Cabinet Member forEnvironmental and OperationalServices, said: “We must all learnto recycle to help preserve theenvironment for our children.Households who sign a pledge areshowing their commitment to useour recycling services regularly,which also benefits the school.”

4 ACHIEVEMENT AND LEARNING FOR ALL

LAUNCH OF ACTIONON ALCOHOL ABUSEA RANGE of initiatives havebeen launched in a bid to beatbooze-related problems inKnowsley. A hard-hittingadvertising campaign from thePolice and Knowsley Councilhighlights a crackdown onpeople buying alcohol for kids.Posters will warn it is acriminal offence to buy alcoholfor under-18s and that this canresult in a fine of £5,000.Council officers have alsocarried out spot checks onpubs, clubs and off-licenses.Initiatives in the borough aresupported by Knowsley’sAlcohol Harm ReductionStrategy. A seminar for youngpeople has already helped toeducate school children on theeffects of alcohol abuse.It’s all part of theGovernment’s aim to targetalcohol-related harm withoutruining people’s enjoyment.

SCHOOLS in Knowsley have been advised to ban mobilephones, after statistics showed thatchildren are five times more likelyto be victims of mobile phonetheft than adults.

Police statistics show 15% ofmobile phone thefts acrossMerseyside were in Knowsley,with many taking place aroundschool gates.

Borough councillors backed themove, after the council consultedheadteachers and pupils todevelop new guidelines which

recommend a total ban in primaryschools and limited use insecondary schools.

Cllr Graham Wright, Chair ofKnowsley’s Education, Trainingand Culture Scrutiny Committee,said: “It was clear from theresponses of headteachers andpupils that there was support for atotal ban on mobile phones inprimary schools. Secondaryschools requested more flexibilityfor students who need a phone forpersonal safety reasons whentravelling to and from school and

we have responded to that informulating the guidelines.”

Gill Price, Head of St Brigid’sPrimary School in StockbridgeVillage, welcomed the newguidelines. Her school had alreadyadopted a mobile phone ban. Shesaid: “Our policy has always beena total ban of mobile phones fromthe outset. I am pleased to see theguidelines adhered to borough-wide as they lend support toschools and help to get the rightmessage across.”

BOROUGH BACKS BAN ON PHONES

SPECIALREPORT byVicki Gianelli

Going Green


IN OUR THOUGHTSONE of Knowsley Council’slongest-serving councillorsdied in February. CouncillorMargaret Flaherty servedthe St Bartholomews wardin Huyton for 25 years. She was KnowsleyCouncil’s Cabinet Memberfor Community Safety andSocial Inclusion.Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said:“Margaret will be greatlymissed by her colleagueson the council and thecommunity that she servedfor so many years.”First elected in 1981, Cllr Flaherty was Mayor of Knowsley from 1995to1996. She was Chair of the council’s Health,Development and PublicProtection Committee from1997 through to 2000.

BENEFITS IN MINUTESRESIDENTS who think theymay be entitled to benefitscan now find out inminutes with KnowsleyCouncil’s new onlinebenefit calculator.The service atwww.knowsley.gov.uk/housing/ gives an approximateamount of benefit thatusers are entitled to.Those wishing to claim cancontact any of the council’sone stop shops, or call 443 4042.

PARTNERSHIP PROGRESSKNOWSLEY Partnership’sAnnual Report revealsimprovements in education,changes in housing in theborough and latestdevelopments in tacklingcrime and disorder.Due out shortly, summaryleaflets will be available in one stop shops andlibraries across theborough and the fulldocument will be onKnowsley Council’s website– www.knowsley.gov.ukIf you require a copy pleasecontact Heather Vaughanon 443 3054.

Borough in briefThe Transforming Tower Hill

programme aims to create a safe,attractive and quality place to live.

Proposals include the creationof a redesigned, safe, tree-linedurban park, along with newhousing, well-lit roads andfootpaths.

The park will include facilitiesfor young people and will bedesigned to reduce anti-socialbehaviour and provide a newheart to the Tower Hillcommunity.

These investments, and therefurbishment work alreadyunderway, make up amultimillion-pound programmeof works that started in 2004.

A brand new LIFT healthcentre has already been opened, and a communitycentre is nearing completion.Future plans include morefacilities for young people,better sports provision,improved transport links andextra childcare services.

Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “Our long term goal is toimprove quality of life for eachand every resident in TowerHill, as indeed our new agendaMaking A Difference to People’sLives includes every resident in Knowsley.

“Our aim is to literallytransform the experience ofliving in Tower Hill by tacklinga wide range of security, socialand quality issues.”

WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK 5

NewsMAKING A TOWER OF STRENGTH

HOUSE PROUD: Knowsley Council’s Mel Godfrey and Knowsley HousingTrust’s Steve Coffey inspect the site for new housing

RESIDENTS have had their say on the second stage of a projectwhich aims to breathe new life into a Knowsley neighbourhood.

THIS artist impression gives a sneak peek at how a newshopping complex in the centreof Huyton will look. The new100,000 sq ft development isnow taking shape and is on

course to be completed in July.It will feature 26 units andnegotiations with majorretailers are taking place butplanning chiefs are keepingtight-lipped about their identity

until they are officially onboard. High street value storeWilkinsons have confirmed theywill occupy a huge 25,000 sq ftarea in the centre.

A NEW LOOK HUYTON

AN AIR-RAID shelter is helping Knowsley schoolchildren learn more about the past.Parents, staff and residents have turned an old air-raidshelter into a learning environment at SylvesterPrimary School with the help of a £10,000 lotterygrant. For the finishing touches, they are now askingresidents to offer up any memorabilia from 1939–45.Sue Price, parent governor at the school, said: “This shelter is part of Knowsley’s history, and offersus an opportunity to help our children understandwhat life was like during the Second World War.“We are asking everyone to search their cupboards,lofts and attics for anything that reflects what life was like for the people of Knowsley during the war.” If you can help donate or loan articles, please contactSue Price on 07812 925241.

A shelter for learningHISTORY LESSON:

Sylvester pupils turnback the clock at the

air-raid shelter in theschool’s grounds.


RESIDENTS are being asked to show their supportfor the Knowsley Against Racism Campaign bysigning a pledge card.Cards will be available throughout the borough incouncil buildings, libraries, bus stations, policestations and other public areas. Window stickerswill also let the public show their support for thecampaign.Launched by the council and its partners,

Knowsley Against Racism is a long-term strategyto challenge all forms of racial hatred in theborough. The pledge card campaign coincides withthe International Day for the Elimination of RacialDiscrimination on 21 March.Residents are encouraged to report any incidentsof racism, in confidence, to Crime Stoppers on0800 555 111, or the Mersey Racial HarassmentPrevention Unit on 0800 138 1688.

News

Borough in brief

AN ‘X-FACTOR’ style competitionis currently underway in Knowsleyto choose the developer behind theborough’s next generation ofsecondary schools. But instead ofSharon, Louis and Simon,Knowsley residents will select the winner.

It’s all part of the BuildingSchools for the Future programmewhich aims to replace Knowsley’ssecondary schools with state-of-the-art learning centres.

Pupils, parents, teachers,governors and residents have beenattending focus groups for the pastfew months to talk about what thenew learning centres should be like.

They have also met the threeconsortia short-listed to design andbuild the centres, and assessed theirideas using a scoring system that

counts towards the final selectionin August.

Focus group members have alsobeen searching locally, nationallyand abroad for examples of well-designed schools and buildings.

One focus group member, LydiaMorley (13) who is representingKnowsley School Council, said:

“Pupils don’t usually get told thingsuntil they’ve been decided and if wedisagree, there’s no chance tochange it. So this has been reallygood.”

The plan is for building to takeplace over two phases, with the first four learning centres beingcompleted by September 2008 and the rest a year later.

The three short-listed developersare; Transform Schools, aconsortium led by Balfour BeattyConstruction; Spirel, a consortiumled by the AMEC ConstructionGroup; Key Stage Solutions, aconsortium led by the AlfredMacAlpine Group.

SCHOOLS WITH THE X-FACTOR

The Northwood SingleRegeneration Budget (SRB)Partnership secured £12million of funding in 1999 to improve the quality of life for local people.With the work of staff atNorthwood House, over 400 jobs have since been created with 22 new business start-ups across Kirkby.

Ian Homard, Northwood SRBPartnership Manager, is pleasedwith the project’s success. He said:“Our aim has been to develop new

relationships to involve localpeople, get residents into jobs andbreak down barriers to enhanceengagement, attainment,aspirations and quality of life.

“A great deal of progress hasbeen made since 1999 withsubstantial benefit to thecommunity in Northwood. By improving the neighbourhoodthe market has confidence todevelop here.”

One group that benefited wasthe Kirkby branch of the Young

Women’s Christian Association.Janet Gorey from the branch said:“Without funding and supportfrom SRB we would not have beenable to develop our service.

“We moved from a room in a health suite to a purpose-builtbuilding on Cherryfield Drivewhich includes a crèche,counselling rooms and IT suite.They really gave us ourfoundations and we owe them a massive thank you.”

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVENA REGENERATION programme which has helped breathe new life intoan area in Kirkby is coming to an end after seven successful years.

FOCUS GROUP: Luke Williamson andLydia Morley, (Knowsley School Council),Alexandra Nicholson and Connor Macleod(Children’s Parliament).

Sign up to stop racism

6 PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST

Operation greyhounda successA PIONEERING new blitz onanti-social crime on publictransport is being hailed asa success.Operation Greyhound waslaunched by The KnowsleyPartnership, Merseytravel,the British TransportPolice, Arriva andStagecoach, to target hot-spots for three weeks usingCCTV and sniffer dogs.Merseyside Police ChiefInspector Ian Valentinesaid: “Anti-social behaviouron buses is affecting ourcommunity and is causingsome real distress. Workingwith our partners, we havelaunched OperationGreyhound as part of along-term solution to theseproblems so that they canuse public transport that issafer and more secure.

New dawn for sunriseA TEAM of dedicatedyoungsters have helped to refurbish a venue usedby a parent/toddler supportgroup for children withdisabilities.The Sunrise Club in Huytonreceived the makeover aspart of the care leavers’employability project.Funded by the EuropeanSocial Fund, it providessupport to help youngpeople in care, aged 16 to 24, to access education,training and employment in Knowsley.

Use your postal voteRESIDENTS who find itdifficult getting to a pollingstation can apply to vote bypost. Local elections arehappening all over Englandon May 4 and everyone hasa right to cast a vote. If you have not alreadyapplied for a postal vote,applications forms can berequested from theelections helpline (443 3602/ 3596) or by [email protected].


KNOWSLEY’S new MobileLibrary has taken to the streets,and will be visiting a road nearyou soon.

That’s the promise made byKnowsley Libraries’ OutreachTeam, who have been consultingresidents about the new routes.

Kathy Allen, OutreachCoordinator, said: “We haveintroduced 70 new stops in areasthat previously had limited or no

service at all. The new routes havebeen developed after extensivediscussions with Knowsleyresidents. We conducted door-to-door surveys, talked to people inthe street and attend numerouslocal festivals and events.”

The mobile library is free to join and open to everyone. For full details visitwww.knowsley.gov.uk/leisure/libraries or call 443 4223.

BOOKS ON WHEELS

£1.2mil fundingboostKNOWSLEY’S OlderPeople’s Services havesecured £1.2million infunding to improve theirservices.The Department of Healthawarded the money, fromThe Partnerships for OlderPeople Fund, after thecouncil’s successful bidwas one of only 19 chosenout of 140. The funding will be usedover two years to visitmore than 4,000households to care forolder people who are mostin need.

Know CancerEVERY library in theborough now has adedicated cancerinformation point – as partof a new scheme to givefamilies and carers moreinformation and advice.Knowsley Library Serviceand the local Primary CareTrust are supporting theproject as part of the KnowCancer in Knowsleycampaign, which aims toreduce the borough’s highmortality rate from cancer.

On yer bikeTHE BOROUGH’S EnergiseKnowsley campaign hasorganised a series of cyclerides in spring andsummer.Organised by KnowsleyCouncil, PCT and CyclingProjects, rides last aboutan hour, are led by trainedstaff and are a mix of onand off road routes.Rides take place at variouslocations starting at 6pm on;

• 27 Apr • 11 & 25 May • 8 & 29 June • 13 & 27 July • 10 & 24 Aug • 7 Sept For full details and to book your place call Steve Carson on 443 2230.

Borough in brief


News

The move aims to bring in aco-ordinated local area basedsystem to deal withenvironmental and anti-socialbehavioural issues. Huyton andKirkby have two teams each witha team for Halewood and a teamcovering Prescot, Whiston andCronton Village.

Teams – made up of police,councillors, council officers,wardens, Knowsley HousingTrust, and members of the youthservices – will work to tackle arange of issues in response toinformation from the community.

Councillor Graham Morgan,Knowsley’s Cabinet Member forRegeneration and Neighbourhoods,said: “This new approach is basedon a commitment to ensureservices are directed where theyare most needed and that allorganisations in the borough such as Knowsley Housing Trust,

Teams are taking pride

James Curry and MikeBowden (EnvironmentalOfficers) get to work on a concern raised byresidents.

SIX Neighbourhood Pride teams have been established in Knowsley toimprove the way services are delivered in the borough.

the Police and Knowsley Councilprioritise and tackle the issues thatare important to local people.”

Top marks forborough schoolsGOVERNMENT inspectors have judged four of Knowsley’sschools to be ‘outstanding inevery category’.Ofsted inspected 21 schools, with 90 per centdeemed outstanding or good for attitudes, values and qualities. The four primary schoolscelebrating top achievementsare Halewood, St Laurence’s,Kirkby, Springfield SpecialSchool, Kirkby, and EvelynPrimary in Prescot.Overall, 77% of the borough’sschools are currently judgedto be outstanding or good.Inspectors called Evelyn‘a magical place to learn’. Damian Allen, Knowsley’sExecutive Director ofChildren’s Services said: “A number of recent Ofstedinspections in Knowsley have produced similarverdicts and illustrate howmuch progress we aremaking in transformingeducation here.”


8 ACHIEVEMENT AND LEARNING FOR ALL

BUILDING A CAREERFEATURE

KNOWSLEY START is giving young people with behavioural problems a new lease oflife – by offering them the chance to learn skills in the construction industry.

T raining includes everythingfrom metalwork and woodwork,literacy and numeracy, to

driving forklift trucks and working in plumbing.

The scheme is already proving to be a big hit, with 100 candidates a week on specially-designed placements. The charitable organisation currentlyhas a 78% success rate of getting young people into further educationand employment.

Youngsters aged 13–16 whoexperience behaviour and truancyproblems can be referred onto theprogramme, including those withlearning difficulties.

Knowsley START manager PatrickBurke is pleased with the success of the work-based learning programme.He said: “We are helping Knowsley’syouth to get well-paid employmentwhilst equipping them with the skillsneeded to make them first-classcitizens.”

Funded through grantschemes, with help fromKnowsley Collegiate and Social Services, it is hoped thatthe investment will give youngpeople the opportunity tochange their lives and make afresh start.

For more information on Knowsley START ring 480 6844.

KNOWSLEY Council has announceda new drive to get 8,200 people fromthe borough into work.As part of a national first, anEmployment and Skills Strategy willaim to raise Knowsley’s employmentlevels to 70% by the end of 2010.The project is a partnershipbetween the council, the LearningSkills Council and Job Centre Plus.It will focus on providing people withthe support and skills required forwork – including coaching,mentoring and vocational skills.

Five groups will be prioritised: thoseon incapacity benefit or with work-limiting disabilities; lone parentswith dependent children; over-50s;people with low or no qualifications;and women wishing to return towork after looking after their family.Employment in Knowsley hasboomed in the last 10 years and thestrategy aims to build on this.Targets include getting 400 loneparents and 800 incapacity benefitclaimants into work every year.Knowsley Council leader Cllr Ron

Round said: “The employment ratein Knowsley is on the up but there isstill much work to be done.Knowsley has led the way and isrespected nationally for how ithas removed barriers toemployment for some ofthe borough’s mostexcluded residents.With this in mind,I am confident thatthe council and itspartners will achieveits targets.”

THOUSANDS SET FOR JOBS UNDER GROUNDBREAKING SCHEME

18 year-old Robert Fitzpatrick fromHuyton spent most of his schooldays bunking off and misbehaving,but thanks to Knowsley START henow travels the world attendingmajor golfing championships.

After training in joinery andpainting he found a placement withDorling Signs Ltd, a major

contractor of sporting signs. Afterseeing the skills Robert learntfrom START, they decided to

take him on permanently.He said: “I’ve got the best

job out of all my mates nowand I earn the most! KnowsleySTART really helped me sortout my attitude and my life. Itravel all around the world now,Thailand, Spain, all over Europe.This year I’ll be at the RyderCup in Ireland. Without STARTI would have gone down a verydifferent path.”

GOOD SIGNS FOR LOCAL LAD


IN KNOWSLEYGranting a fresh start BUDDING entrepreneurs have been gettingtheir small business ideas off the groundwith the help of a £500 grant fromKnowsley’s Fresh Start campaign.Set up by Knowsley Council and itspartners, the campaign aims to create 270 new businesses in the borough by the end of the year. As part of the scheme,free help and advice is also available toresidents starting a business or becomingself-employed. Specialist advisors willhelp to administer grants, and advise ongeneral start-up support, at Knowsley’sBusiness Resource Centre in Admin Road, Kirkby. For more information call 477 4000.

UP AND RUNNINGThese four new businesses all benefited from a Fresh Start grant.

Mark Wiggins (45) and John Watson (45) from Huyton (pictured top right) set up Watson WigginsRestraints Ltd.Business: “Training vulnerable staff to defend themselves.Aiming to work with community wardens, A&E staff, socialworkers and door persons.”Inspiration: “John and I got our heads together and thoughtit was a good idea. We started to set up just over a year agoand it’s going OK. We have just won our first contract withvoluntary mental health group, Mind.”Fresh Start grant: “Helped to pay for public liability insurance.”Advice to others: “Try and get as much funding as you can,keep sight of your goals and stay positive.”

Launching the newstrategy: KnowsleyCouncil Leader Cllr RonRound, Knowsley’sHead of Employmentand Social InclusionTeam Tracy Fishwick,Knowsley Council’sChief Executive SheenaRamsey, Gill Motlockfrom Job Centre Plusand guest speakerDavid Simmods fromInclusion.


Paul Kelly (24) from Prescot set up WeAreBrilBusiness: “Graphic design.”Inspiration: “Because there were so fewdesign studios looking to employ. I’vetrained for it, and wanted to do it sinceI was a kid, so I’m trying to go it alone.”Fresh Start grant: “Helped with generalstart-up costs including equipment andpromotion.”Advice to others: “Get as muchprofessional advice as you possibly can.”

Marie Pendleton (45) from Huyton set up Threads.Business: “Making curtains andclothing alterations.”Inspiration: “A training course calledTrain 2000, which helps women to start out in business.”Fresh Start grant: “Helped towardsgeneral overheads like rent and council tax.”Advice to others: “Plan everythingproperly and stick to your business plan.”

Kate Gorst (26) from Huyton(below) set up Altru Drama Ltd

Business: “Working with children inschools, youth clubs and play schemesto help them put-on Theatreperformances.”Inspiration: “I have been teachingdrama to A-Level students for threeyears and fancied working with younger children.”Fresh Start grant: “Helped fund a tourof the theatrical and educationalproduction Hungry for Health, which is aimed at 7–11 year-olds and looks athealth, nutrition and diet.”Advice to others: “Do loads ofplanning and research and look for gaps in the market.”

Joining the JET setAFTER 40 years as an upholsterer in Garston, David Jenkins (pictured below)feared the worst after losing his job.But now the 55-year-old from Halewood is enjoying some new-foundconfidence after help from Halewood JET – one of Knowsley Council’spartners in delivering the Employment & Skills Strategy.JET set up a placement for David in anadministration role at Create – a Speke-basedcharity and social business that recycles usedelectrical products. He said: “I was like a fishout of water at first but I am really enjoying it. I would never have considered this type of workhad it not been for the help I have received.“It has made me think about another career pathand made me realise I have other skills that canget me into work.”


10 BETTER WORK AND LEISURE OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE

Get activein Knowsley

>>FEATURE

A ll over the borough, projects areunderway to make new state-of-the-art leisure facilities available

and affordable. Last year the councilinvested £360,000 in high-quality fitnessequipment, but this year’s plans are evenbigger. Knowsley News takes a closerlook at new facilities that are alreadymaking an impact, and what residentscan expect in the future.

A new £12million leisure centre in KirkbyWork is underway on the council’s mostambitious project to date – a new£12million leisure centre in Kirkby. Thestate-of-the-art centre on CherryfieldDrive will include a pool, gym, runningtrack and floodlit artificial pitches. Dueto open next year, it will provide a basefor many local sports clubs, offeringworld-class facilities to everyone fromelite athletes to local residents.

Last year a £50,000 ten-stationShapers Plus gym and a £30,000 JuniorShokk gym opened in Kirkby SportsCentre. Sports clubs have also beenusing modern synthetic pitches at thenew Tower Hill Primary Care andCommunity Resource Centre. Thepitches cost £750,000, jointly funded bySport England and Knowsley Council.

£542,000 upgrade for Prescot sports pitches The council is investing £542,000 on newsynthetic sports pitches for hockey andfootball. The work includes a new syntheticplaying surface, shock pads, fencing andfloodlighting. Work has started and is dueto finish by July.

This spring, Shapers gym at HuytonLeisure Centre will be transformedwith a £200,000 refurbishment.

New technology will allow users tofollow personalised programmes andtrack their own progress.

Huyton’s £4.5 million King George Vcommunity-based sports complex is alsoproving popular. Used by various clubs,it includes Astroturf pitches, tenniscourts, football pitches, bowling greens,a boxing club and a community hall.

£50,000 on inclusive fitness in HalewoodHalewood Leisure Centre had recentlybenefited from £50,000 on its inclusivefitness equipment, to ensure people withdisabilities benefit from the centre.Teenagers from a special educationalneeds school have been among the firstto use the facilities. The group fromElms School in Stockbridge Villageenjoyed swimming lessons and the new fitness suite.

The project was funded from bodiesincluding Sport England, KnowsleyCouncil, the Inclusive Fitness Initiative,Knowsley Primary Care Trust, KnowsleyHealth Partnership and the LearningDisability Development Fund.

For information on sports and leisurein Knowsley, visit www.knowsley.gov.uk or contact the Sports Service on 443 4404.

GOOD news for Knowsley residents – the council is investing millions of pounds into creating the best leisure facilities on Merseyside.

Last year the council invested

£360,000 in high-quality fitness equipment,

but this year’s plans are even bigger.

“

“



Get active at Knowsleyleisure centres withthis range of specialoffers for residents:

Membership for £27.50 a month3Unlimited use of

fitness suites withfree induction

3Personalisedexerciseprogrammes and classes

3Swimming, saunaand steam rooms

3Badminton andsquash courts

3No joining fee, nominimum contract

Annual Swim Pass for £993Unlimited use of the

borough’s pools

350p off-peak swimsFor under-16s andover-60s only

50% off manyactivities for:3Residents on low

income3Registered disabled 3Full time students3Elite athletes3Under 16s

For more informationcontact the SportsService on 443 4404.

SPECIALOFFERS


Fitness fun for teenagersTEENAGERS from a special educational needs school inKnowsley have benefited from the facilities at HalewoodLeisure Centre.

The group from the Elms School in Stockbridge Village have enjoyed swimming lessons at the centre and have beeninducted as members of the fully-inclusive fitness suite.

For more information contact Halewood Leisure Centre on 443 2124.


RIBBED at school for writingpoetry, Dave Kirby’s passionfor football helped him pickup the pen again – and he’snever looked back since.By Gareth Roberts

A T age eleven his poem about thehuman body was published bythe Liverpool Echo, but the

ridicule he received stopped Davefrom chasing a career in creativewriting.

The 46-year-old from Kirkbyexplained: “It didn’t go down well at StKevin’s Comprehensive. I was vilified bymy mates for daring to write poetry.There was one English teacher, MrO’Brian, who told me I had talent withwords. But I never wrote anythingsincere again in school for fear ofridicule.”

After leaving school in 1975 Daveworked in factories, bars and thensettled into the family trade ofplastering. But a passion for footballand Liverpool FC inspired him toreturn to rhyme. Dave said: “A lot of myearly work was football related so itattracted the fanzines. I now performpoetry at certain after-dinner events butthat’s only because football ismarketable.”

Kirkby has been a huge influence onhis work, which now includes plays andscripts. He said: “If I’m writing a poem Ilike to capture the emotion of

something I’ve lived through. Kirkbyhas played a massive part – not just inmoulding me into the person I am butby being a creative and diverse town. Ithas an inner-city culture mixed with asemi-rural location. As a kid you couldgo to Anfield or Goodison then laterclimb trees in Spinney Woods.

“People like my great mate, the actorAndrew Schofield – the comedian SeanStiles – writers like Nicky Allt, StephenButchard, Phil Redmond – we all wentto St Kev’s and are proud of our roots.”

Dave is working on projects like aneducational film about fire-relateddisorder, a play at the Unity Theatre inApril called Lost Soul and another atthe Royal Court in August called Brick-up the Mersey Tunnels written withNicky Allt. Dave has also beenapproached to write a play of MichaelShields’ story, an innocent Liverpool fanlocked up in Bulgaria.

And his advice for writers? Dave said:“Writing books and scripts isn’t just acase of picking up a pen – it’s like allother professions. To succeed requiresdedication and a tough apprenticeship –only this one pays nothing at all untilyou manage to break through.”

DaveKirbyHave you ever woken from a terrible dreamand you lay there playing it, scene-by-sceneand you’re not quite sure just how you feelyou’re just relieved that the dream wasn’t real.

But what if that nightmare didn’t endand you woke up somewhere without a friendand your dream became a living hellin a squalid Bulgarian prison cell.

The trip of a lifetime it should’ve beento see his beloved football teambut Istanbul and all its glorywas soon to tell a different story.

Where the Black Sea meets the landa cruel fate would play its handtaken from his hotel roominto a world of total gloom.

Arrested, stripped and then detainedmanacled with locks and chainsaccused of being in a fightwhich happened as he slept at night.

Attempted murder is the chargethough the culprit is still at largewitnesses don’t seem to matterleaving a family totally shattered.

Third world country – third world lawsA place where corruption opens doorsthe Riviera of the Eastwhere human rights are being breached.

Just try and imagine that ordeala tragic nightmare played for realjust stop and think of how you’d feelthen think of a kid...named Michael Shields.

His destiny is still unknownBut we won’t let him walk alonewe’ll fight and upturn every stoneuntil this innocent lad ... is back home.

Dave Kirby

AN INNOCENT LAD by Dave Kirby

MY KNOWSLEY

12 WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK


WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK 13WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK 13

THE MAYFAIR first threw open itsdoors on Saturday September 181937, premiering with the Bing

Crosby comedy Mississippi. Chairmanof Huyton Council J. Strathdene led theopening ceremony, attended by councilmembers, Mayfair officials andmembers of the public.

A grand opening to the generalpublic was held two days later whenThe Plainsman was screened – aromance set in the Old West starringGary Cooper as ‘Wild Bill Hickok’ andJean Arthur as ‘Calamity Jane’. The firstof many Westerns screened at theMayfair, locals soon dubbed the cinema“The Ranch”.

Film-lovers entered on Derby Roadthrough three pairs of glass-panelleddoors, leading to a foyer and the mainauditorium. Costing £18,000 to build,the cinema seated 1,010 in the stalls and

334 in the balcony, with golden rosedécor, velvet seats and speciallydesigned carpet.

Twenty five contractors gave Huytonone of the most modern cinemas of itstime. W. Tomkinson & Sons of Liverpoolwere responsible for the cinema’s design,and C.R. Harrison & Sons of Newton-Le-Willows installed the seating.

The curtain came down at theMayfair on Saturday April 30 1960. The film that day was I’m All Right Jack– a British comedy starring Peter Sellersas a union shop steward with Terry-Thomas and Richard Attenboroughco-starring.

Ownership of the building passedto Fine Fare Supermarket until early1970 when Boots moved in. Today,if you look carefully at the rear of thebuilding, you can still see the exits fromthe cinema (now bricked up) and thestrange slant of the roof where thescreen was located.

So next time you walk past, step backin time and imagine what it must havebeen like to enjoy a trip to the picturesin Huyton.

FROM FLICKS TO PHARMACY

HISTORY

PEOPLE pop in for pills and prescriptions these days, but the site of Boots in Huyton Village used to be a place for dates and double bills. JAMIE WILLIAMS tells the tale of the Mayfair Cinema.

Huyton’s history– Did you know?3Stephenson’s ‘Rocket’ travelled

through Huyton station. Thesandstone at the station’sentrance (under the railings)formed part of the sidling on itsway to the Rainhill Trials.

3A large building similar to SpekeHall once stood near Sawpit Parkin Huyton Quarry.

3The first police cell in Huytonwas located at the side of StMichael’s Church. Look at thesteps on Bluebell Lane entrance,you will see a bricked up door.

3Wheathill House, Wheathill Roadwas once used by the bombdisposal team as theirheadquarters.

3A Cock Stool Pit (or DuckingStool) once stood near HuytonCollege & Blacklow Brow. Thiswas used as punishment forfraudulent shopkeepers, whowere submerged as punishmentfor disorderly behaviour.

MAYFAIR CINEMAHUYTON

ADMISSION PRICES:MATINEES

Ground Floor – 4d (Under-14s 3d)

Balcony – 6d (Under-14s 4d)

EVENINGSFront Stalls – 6d, Children up to 8pm – 4d

Back Stalls – 9d, Children up to 8pm – 6d

Back Balcony – 1/-, Children up to 8pm – 6d

Front Balcony – 1/3, Children up to 8pm – 9d

PERFORMANCESMonday-Friday – 6.30pm

Saturdays & Bank Holidays – 6.20pm & 8.40pm

(Back stalls may be booked for the 1st performance only)

Matinees: Monday, Thursday, Saturday – 2.30pm

Sundays – Closed

Do you have any memories of the Mayfair Cinema you would like to share withKnowsley News? Do have any pictures or memorabilia? If so, please write to KnowsleyNews, Communications Office, Knowsley Council, Archway Road, Huyton, L36 9YU. Or you can email [email protected].

With thanks to Jamie Williams, who runs local interest website www.huytonwithroby.info

Kno

wsl

ey L

ibra

ries

Arc

hive

Ser

vice



DVDs

Phantom of the OperaPhantom is a terrificover-the-top Gothic love story. There’s greatacting from SimonCallow and MinnieDriver, but it’s themusic and spectacularsets that make it amust-see. The criticspanned it but I enjoyedthis more than Cabaret,

which won all the awards. One of the mostsuccessful musicals ofall time, it will be goingto Las Vegas where anew $30million theatreis being speciallydesigned for it. If you can’t wait forthat, borrow the DVDto see what all the fuss is about.Sue Stone, Stockbridge Library

BOOKS

The Black Angel by John Connolly

Private InvestigatorCharlie Parker is on thecase again. This timehe’s battling an old evilcriminal, held prisonerfor centuries. Who isthe strange anddisturbing Brightwellwho comes to visit him?As his case goes on,Charlie learns he maybe more involved thanhe realises. Anintriguing and grippingwork of fiction.Frank Wilson, Page Moss Library

The Story of TracyBeaker by Jacqueline WilsonToday I’ve just finishedreading a book calledThe Story of Tracy

Beaker by JacquelineWilson. It was reallygood. It’s about a younggirl in need of a fosterhome. Some parts aresad, but most of it washappy and funny. Tracycan be very naughty butdeep down she has akind heart.Kelly Welburn, aged 9,Huyton Library

Geisha of Gionby Mineko Iwasakiwith Rande BrownGeisha of Gion tracesthe true-life story of asmall girl who decides,at a very young age,that she wants to be ageisha in Kyoto’s GionKobu Karyukai – the‘flower and willowworld’ of the Maiko and Geiko.It’s a rare andfascinating account ofMineko-san’s journey,from her adoption intothe Iwasaki householdas successor to theOkiya, through hertraining in thetraditional Japanesearts, to her emergenceas the most successfuland envied Geiko of hergeneration. Lin Rice, Whiston Library

The Man with theMiraculous Hands by Joseph Kessel

An extremelyinteresting read about alittle-known FinnishDoctor – Felix Kersten,who treated Himmlerand by way of gratitudemanaged to obtain therelease of many Jewsand other persecuted‘prisoners of war’.Anita Wood,Stockbridge Library

Labyrinth by Kate Mosse

This is a novel aboutthe Holy Grail. It movesfrom the present, backinto the time ofcrusades and knights in France’s Languedocregion. Alice, the leadcharacter, is visiting a dig and unearthssomething that willtake her deep into the past. The writing is kept at afast pace and I found Icouldn’t wait to go backin time to see whathappened next.Although it’s fictionsome of the events didhappen. It has inspireda friend and me to visitCarcassonne, which is in the novel.Gill Hunter, Huyton Library

Shelf Life Highlights from the latest best-sellingbooks and new release DVD’s availablefrom the borough’s librariesB Y K N O W S L E Y L I B R A RY S TA F F

GreatMemoriesA KNOWSLEYwoman has pennedher third bookabout life growingup on Merseyside.Mary Routledge ofSpruce Grove,Stockbridge Village,has followed up hersuccessfulMemories andMemories 2 bookswith a third,Memories 3.

Each book has adifferent focus:from Mary’srecollection of lifein Toxteth betweenthe 1920s and1940s, to the historyof Liverpool, andnow on the periodbetween the 1960sto the 1990s.

We have two copiesof Memories 3 togive away. Write into Memories 3Giveaway,Communicationsoffice, KnowsleyCouncil, ArchwayRoad, Huyton, L369YU. The first twopostcards drawnout of the hat afterthe closing date of21 April will win abook. Usualcompetition rules apply.

DVDs to look out for: Davina: My ThreeMinute Workout

Star Wars III: Revengeof the Sith

Jimmy Carr: Stand Up

Steven Seagal: Into the Sun

Have I Got News ForYou: The best of theguest presenters Vol 2

Christian Slater, TaraReid, Stephen Dorff:Alone in the Dark

Books to look out for:Sun at Midnight by Rosie Thomas

For the Death of Me by Quintin Jardine

Nobody’s Child by Kate Adie

Sarah by Marek Halter

Gardens of Delight by Erica James

5th Horseman by James Patterson



MUSIC

21 March � Graham CoxonCarling Academy,Liverpool.Graham Coxon comesto town to promote hisnew album Love TravelsAt Illegal Speeds. Hislast album Happinessin Magazines was hismost successful soloalbum to date andincluded the hitsFreakin Out,Bittersweet Bundle ofMisery and Spectacular.Doors 7pm. £14. Tel: 0870 771 2000

29 March � Off The WallRoyal Court, Liverpool.Pink Floyd tribute bandbreathe new life intoclassic songs such asAnother Brick In TheWall, Shine On YouCrazy Diamond andMoney, withoutstanding lightingand video effects. Doors7.30pm. £16. Tel: 0870 787 1866

9 April � The DriftersLiverpool Empire.The longest-runningpop band in historyplays hits like Underthe Boardwalk,Saturday Night at theMovies and many more.Doors 7.30pm. £15-£17. Tel: 0870 607 757523 April � The Ordinary BoysLiverpool University.Fresh from his BigBrother experience,Preston unsurprisinglytakes his band on theroad for their biggest-ever UK tour.Tel: 794 6868

THEATRE

14 March–1 April � My Fair LadyLiverpool Empire.The National Theatre’saward-winningproduction of theCameron Mackintoshfavourite comes toLiverpool, celebratingits 50th anniversary.Doors 7.30pm. £15-£35. Tel: 0870 607 7575

17–29 April � Blood BrothersLiverpool Empire.Willy Russell’sMerseyside musicaltells the captivating andmoving story of twinboys separated at birth,only to be re-united bya twist of fate and amother’s hauntingsecret. £8.50-£28.50. Tel: 0870 607 7575

15–20 May � BuddyLiverpool Empire.The popular rock’n’rollmusical follows thetragically short life ofBuddy Holly from hisfirst recording contractthrough to his move toNew York, concludingwith the fatal tour ofMid-West America.£10-£26.50. Tel: 0870 607 7575.

EXHIBITIONS

5-10 June–16 April� Paul EllikerExhibition – The Last Best PlaceKirkby Gallery.

Bold and colourfullarge-scale landscapepaintings. Free entry. Email: [email protected]: 443 5619

Until 23 April � EgyptianExhibitionPrescot Museum.Includes many excitingobjects including acomplete set of canopicjars, used to keep bodyparts in tombs. Freeentry. Email: [email protected]: 430 7787

29 April–4 June� Museum andGalleries MonthPrescot Museum.Host of free events onthe theme of makingconnections between thepast, present and thefuture. Email: [email protected]: 430 7787

29 April – 4 June � Matisse – Drawingwith ScissorsKirkby Gallery.Touring exhibition fromthe Arts Council inLondon. A collection ofbright and colourfulHenri Matisse collagesfrom 1950-1954. Free entry. Email: [email protected]: 443 5619

EVENTS

16 March � Ladies’ LuncheonKnowsley CommunityCollege.A three-course lunch toraise funds for theMayor of Knowsley’sCharity Appeal,supporting the BreatheEasy Group.

12.30pm. Entry £10. Email: [email protected]: 443 3175

18 March � Blowing in theWindSawpit Park, Huyton. 1-3pm. Make fantastic flyingmachines and windchimes in this fun-packed afternoon. Free entry. Tel: 443 3682

19 March � Kite FlightCourt Hey Park,Huyton.1–3pm. Make your ownkite and then pray forwindy weather for itsfirst test flight. Free entry. Tel: 443 3682

21 March � International Day for the Eliminationof RacialDiscriminationKing George V SportsComplex, Huyton.A school footballcompetition to raiseawareness of racialdiscrimination. 10am–3pm.Email:[email protected]: 443 5894

22 March � PanathlonChallengeGreenbank SportsAcademy, Liverpool.Knowsley teamscompete with manyothers from Merseysidein this sportcompetition forsecondary schoolchildren withdisabilities.10.30am–2.30pm.Free entry.

What’s On Each issue we keep youup to date with what’shappening in your area I N A N D A R O U N D K N O W S L E Y

OUT OF THE ORDINARY: Recognise Preston from CelebrityBig Brother? Catch him on April 23.



Email:[email protected]: 443 3688

24 March� CharityEntertainmentEveningHuyton ParkConservative Club.An evening ofentertainment, discoand raffle draws toraise funds for theMayor of Knowsley’sCharity Appeal,supporting theBreathe Easy Group. From 7.30pm.Email: [email protected]: 443 3175

25 March � Circus SkillsSt Chad’s Gardens,Kirkby.Clown around and havea go at juggling, plate-spinning, stilt-walkingand unicycle riding.1–4pm. Free entry. Tel: 443 3682.

28 March � Youth Band NightHuyton Suite.Young bands fromacross the area showoff their talent. Tickets £2 on the door. Tel: 443 3989

28 March� KnowsleySecondary SchoolsCross-CountryChampionshipsKing George V SportsComplex, Huyton.1.30–3pm. Free admission. Email: [email protected]: 289 8082

28 March � KnowsleyDisability Fun GalaHalewood LeisureCentre.Swimming gala forchildren withdisabilities. 10am–2pm. Free entry. Email: [email protected]: 443 3688

1 April � Dance ShowHuyton Leisure Centre.Youngsters from theborough show off theirtalent. From 7pm.Tel: 443 3970

9 April � Copse and LoppersMillbrook Park, Kirkby.Help the HuytonRangers tidy up theMillennium Green’strees and shrubs. Wear suitable clothesand footwear. 1–3pm. Tel: 443 3682

10 April � WrigglersKing George V PlayingFields, Huyton.Could you charm aworm? Entice worms to the surface of theplaying field. Prizes for the best charmers.1–3pm. Free entry. Tel: 443 3682

10 April � Easter Eggs-travaganzaVarious locationsaround Huyton,Whiston, and Kirkby.Help the Easter Bunnyfind his lost Eastereggs. Use maps, followclues and find thereward! 1-3pm. Free entry. Call forfull times and details.Tel. 443 3682

10–14 April� Schools OutAll Knowsley Libraries.Free school holidayactivities for childrenincluding crafts, story-reading and fun withcreepy crawlies.2–4pm. Tel: 482 1849

16 April� Easter StrollAcornfield Plantation, Kirkby.Join the rangers fora free exploration ofKirkby’s countryside.10am-1pm. Tel: 443 3682

19 April� Kite FlightSt John’s MillenniumGreen, Huyton.See 19 March. 1–3pm. Tel: 443 3682

21 April� Mayor ofKnowsley’s CharityDinner DanceHuyton Suite.Three-course dinnerand entertainment

to raise funds for theMayor of Knowsley’sCharity Appeal,supporting the BreatheEasy Group. From7.30pm. £25pp.Email: [email protected]: 443 3175

23 April � Hustle Spring FayreHuyton Leisure Centre.Activities and fun foryoung people includingcircus skills, artsworkshops and musicfrom local bands.10am-4pm. Free entry. Tel: 443 3682

26 April� Knowsley Primary SchoolsNetball FinalsVenue TBC.Junior and Seniorfinals. The two winningschool teams willrepresent Knowsley inthe Merseyside YouthGames. 4-6pm. Email: [email protected]: 443 4635

30 April� Flying CircusHalewood Park12-4pm. Come and seethe awesome FlyingCircus perform withtheir amazing kites ofevery conceivablecolour, shape and size.Free entry. ContactHalewood Rangers on488 6151.

3 May � Mayor ofKnowsley’s Charity5-a-side CompetitionKirkby Sports Centre.Compete in a friendlycompetition, withsponsorship moneygoing to the Mayor of

Knowsley’s nominatedcharity, the BreatheEasy Group.10am–6pm. Entry fee £140per team. Email: [email protected]: 443 2153

6 May� Spring Fun DayWastlebridge Park,Huyton.A fun-packed afternoonof entertainment.12–4pm. Free entry.Tel: 443 3682

7 May� Animal CrackersStadt Moers Park, Whiston.As part of National Pet Week, enter yourpets of all shapes andsizes into our fun show.In conjunction with theDog Trust. 1–4pm. Free entry. Tel: 489 1239

7 May � Can’t see thewoods for the tree!Acornfield Plantation,Kirkby.Explore the fascinatingwoodland with theKirkby Rangers.10am–1pm. Free. Tel: 443 3682

11 May � Mayor ofKnowsley’s CharityGolf CompetitionBlundells Hill GolfClub, Rainhill.A popular day forMerseyside businessesto raise money for theMayor of Knowsley’sCharity. Entry £140 perteam. 8.30am-8pm. Email: [email protected]: 443 2152

What’s On Each issue we keep youup to date with what’shappening in your area I N A N D A R O U N D K N O W S L E Y


11 May� Bluebell ExpressStadt Moers Park,Whiston.A walking and bus tourthrough Knowsley’sBluebell woods with theStadt Moers Walking forHealth Club. Placeslimited, bookings only.12.30–4pm. Tel: 443 3438

13 May� History Mystery TrailHenley Park, Whiston.Enjoy a walk and talkabout the history of theHenley Park andWhitestone MillenniumGreen area. Meet atHenley Park Pavilion. 1–4pm. Free entry. Tel: 489 1239

17-18 May� Primary SchoolsKwik CricketTournamentVenue TBC.Inter-school kwikcricket competition.Winning school fromeach age group to goforward and representKnowsley at theMerseyside YouthGames.12–6pm.Free entry. Tel: 443 5713

20-26 May� Adult Learners WeekKnowsley Libraries.Aimed at adults whowould like to updatetheir IT skills or refreshbasic reading, mathsand writing skills. Free. Tel: 482 1306

20 May� Jubilee Fun DayJubilee Park, Huyton.Something for everyoneincluding circus skills,bird display, jazzdancing, face painting,

beat the goalie and lotsmore. In conjunctionwith the Huyton FarmTrust. 12-4pm.Free entry.Tel: 443 3682

21 May � Nature in ParksSt Chad’s Gardens,Kirkby.Explore the world ofnature through amicroscope and meetan array of animalsincluding snakes andowls. 1–3pm.Free entry. Tel: 443 3682

25-28 May� Stadt Moers Sports ExchangeBorough-wide.A 48-strong group fromKnowsley’s twin townof Stadt Moers inGermany will travelthe borough to enjoya programme of sportsand social activitieswith local teams. Email: [email protected]: 443 2155

29 May-2 June� Schools OutKnowsley Libraries. See 10 April. 2-4pm.

3 June� Circus TricksSawpit Park, Huyton.

Try your hand atjuggling, plate spinning,stilt-walking andunicycle riding. 1–3pm.Free. Tel: 443 3682

3 June� Teddy Bears’PicnicHenley Park, Whiston.Bring your bear andsome food and join thefun because today’s theday the teddy bearshave their picnic.1–3pm. Free entry. Tel: 489 1239

3 June� Clowning AroundMcGoldrick Park,Huyton.Stop clowning aroundand come down toMcGoldrick Park tolearn all the tricks andtalents of a circusentertainer.10am–12pm. Tel: 443 3682.

4 June� Green FayreCourt Hey Park,Huyton.Attractions include acraft and food market,circus skills, artsworkshops and muchmore. 11am–5pm.Free entry. Tel: 443 3438

8 June� Bat NightHalewood Park.Join us on a twilightwalk of discovery intothe elusive world of ourlocal flying friends.8.30–10.30pm.Free entry. Tel: 488 6151

REGULARS

� Words andPicturesKnowsley Libraries. Stories and crafts forthe under fives. Call fordates and times.Tel: 448 0944

Monday-Saturday� Junior ShapersHuyton Leisure Centre. Fitness for youngsters.3.30–5.30pm weekdays,9–12pm on Saturdays. Tel: 443 3761

Mondays� Ladies Only SwimHuyton Leisure Centre.8–9pm. 7.30-8pm onSundays. Tel: 443 3761

� 50+ ClubHuyton Leisure Centre.1–3pm Mondays andWednesdays. Tel: 443 3761

Tuesdays andWednesdays� Tai ChiHuyton Leisure Centre. 9–10am Tuesday,2–3pm Wednesday. Tel: 443 3761

Wednesdays� Tea DanceHuyton Suite. Put on your glad ragsand dancing shoes, andhave some fun. 1–4pm. Tel: 0151 443 3761

� Line DancingHuyton Suite. Come along and join in this fun and excitingactivity, which can helpyou keep fit. 7–11pm. Tel: 443 3761

Last Friday evening ofthe month� Big Band Night(Norman RoyOrchestra)Huyton Suite. This popular monthlyevent sees live bandsperforming some of the top ballroom hits of the 1940s. Tel: 443 3761

Saturdays� Youth NightHuyton Leisure Centre.5-8pm. Tel: 443 3761


EGYPTIAN EXHIBITION: until April 23 at Prescot Museum.


Tackling drugs,changing lives

HEALTH

KNOWSLEY’S Drugs Intervention Programme helps drug users kick the habit,and aims to reduce the amount of drug-related crime in the community.

T he DIP was launched in October2005. Run by Knowsley Councilin partnership with the

Lighthouse Project, the programmeoffers clients access to counselling,skills training, medical advice andcomplimentary therapies.

The DIP’s efforts support theGovernment’s national strategy fortackling drugs. Clients can be referredon to the programme by police, paroleofficers, health workers, family or canchoose to self-refer.

Cllr Ron Round, leader of KnowsleyCouncil, said: “Taking part in the DrugsIntervention Programme is a real chancefor substance users to change their lives for the better. It has a very positive impact for our communities by stopping the revolving doorsyndrome of constantly re-offending tofund a drugs habit.”

BEATING ADDICTIONVICKI GIANELLI met formerdrug addict John*, who wentclean thanks to help fromKnowsley’s Drug InterventionProgramme.

JOHN began smoking marijuana as a teenager – but by 30 he washooked on heroin and crack

cocaine, stealing from shops to feed his£300-a-day habit.

Sacked from his job and shunned byfriends, the former soldier fromHalewood became so low hetwice tried to take his

own life. Arrested for shoplifting, thecourts made John attend Knowsley’sDrugs Intervention Programme (DIP).

Since late last year he has receivedone-to-one and group counselling, aswell as alternative treatments such asacupuncture, to help break his deadlycycle. After making it nine weekswithout drugs, John finally feels like hislife is back on track.

He said: “Without help from the DIPand my immediate family I would bedead now. I lost my whole life overdrugs – jobs, family, friends, self-respect, I had nothing. Now I amstarting to turn it all around.”

John’s priorities have changed from

Council offers STI testsRATES of the Sexually Transmitted Infection Chlamydiaare on the rise across Knowsley. Latest figures show that 1 in 10 residents under the ageof 25 could be infected. Caused by bacteria, if leftuntreated it can result in infertility, ectopic pregnancyand other serious problems.To tackle the infection, the council is offering tests forunder-25s in a variety of venues including familyplanning and contraceptive clinics, THINK clinics,pharmacists and voluntary and youth organisations. Susie Gardiner, Knowsley Sexual Health ProgrammeManager said: “The goal is prevention, early detectionand treatment. Treatment is simple and very effectiveand involves a course of antibiotic tablets.“As Chlamydia often does not cause symptoms, so manypeople who are infected may be unaware. STIs such asChlamydia can be prevented. Using condoms during sexwill significantly reduce the risk.” If you have had unprotected sex and think you could haveChlamydia, go for a check-up where you can discussother STIs and pregnancy. For more information contactthe Chlamydia Screening Office on 0151 227 1471 orFamily Planning Services on 01744 620 365.

18 BETTER HEALTH AND HEALTHY LIVING

scoring his next fix to looking after hispartner and children. He admits thestruggle to stay clean hasn’t been easy,but specialist advice from DIP hashelped.

He added: “Some days are better thanothers and I have a lot of ups anddowns. But I want to stay off drugs andI’m sticking to it. I’ve got some jobinterviews lined up and I amdetermined to beat this addiction. Ithink if you are a strong enough person,you can do it – I have.”

For more information contactKnowsley’s DIP on 0151 443 5792. TheDIP operates a 24 hours help service, viathe ACT phoneline, which can put youin touch with support agencies in yourarea by calling 0800 028 1300.

* Details have been changed toprotect the client’s identity.


Q “I’m fed up with the noise andnuisance caused by the pub I

live by. Is there anything the councilcan do about it?”

A “Knowsley Council is nowresponsible for the licensing of all

premises that sell alcohol, provideentertainment, and offer late nightrefreshments, including fish and chipshops and pizza takeaways. This becamethe council’s responsibility under theLicensing Act 2003, which came intofull effect on 24 November 2005.

“Problems such as noise from a pubcan be reported to the council in personat one stop shops or via phone on 4896000. Pubs providing entertainmenthave a responsibility to prevent publicnuisance. We will ensure music levelsare acceptable, discuss the matter withthe license holder and monitor noiselevels if necessary.”

Q“Sometimes it’s not just thenoise from the bars, it’s the

sound of the taxis beeping theirhorns late at night. What can thepolice and the council do about it?”

A “We work closely with the policeand our partners, so complaints

should be made to them as well. Thepolice have the power to closelicensed premises down for up to 24hours if there are crime and disorderproblems. One Knowsley pub wasclosed down on New Year’s Eve for afew hours because of disorderproblems.

“In terms of taxis sounding theirhorns residents should make a note ofthe time and date they are disturbedand let us know. If possible try andmake a note of the type of vehicle,registration or licence plate number ofthe taxi and we’ll take the matterfurther with the driver.”

Q“I’ve been told by a neighbourthat a pub is applying to extend

its opening hours. I’m concernedthat if it stays open any later it willcause even more disturbance toresidents – can I object to it?”

A “Yes, residents can object. Allpremises applying to vary licences

must advertise their application in a

local newspaper and display a blueA4 notice at the premise for at least28 days, after submitting theirapplication to the council. The sameapplies for new applications.

“Details of applications are on ourwebsite and we also write to residentsand businesses within approximately50 metres of the premises to make

people aware of the application. We are the only council in Merseyside todo this and it’s our way of ensuringthat the community are made aware ofan application in their area. Anyonewishing to object must do so in writingby the stated deadline.”

Q“What happens once I’veobjected to an application? Who

decides what the hours should be?”

A “The matter will be considered by a Licensing Sub-Committee

consisting of three councillors. Thepublic can attend the hearing, eitherto speak or just to observe. The Sub-Committee will listen to all views andthen make a decision.”

Q“I’ve heard that residents canapply to the council for a review

of a pub licence, is this true?”

A “Any interested parties (includingresidents) and responsible

authorities (including the police, fireservice) can apply to us to review alicence at a particular premise if thereare any problems associated withcrime, disorder, public safety ornuisance. If appropriate, we’ll organise a hearing of a Licensing Sub-Committee to consider the matter andresidents may attend if they wish.”

Q“My local off-licence is sellingalcohol to youths – is there

anything the council can do?”

A “The council carries outregular underage sale surveys

using young volunteers whoattempt to buy alcohol. A saleusually results in a prosecution.If you have a complaint orknow a young person whowould like to work with the

Trading Standards team, callStephanie Hudson on 443 4746.”


Licensed to thrill?IAN RUSHTON, Knowsley Council’s Principal Licensing Officer, answers all your questions.

“We workclosely withthe Policeand ourpartners, socomplaintsshould bemade tothem aswell”

OVERTO YOUIf you would like a question answered and think a

council expert might be able tohelp, write to Ask the Expert,Knowsley News, MunicipalBuildings, Archway Road,

Huyton, Knowsley, L39 9YU oremail to [email protected]

IAN RUSHTON

ASK THE EXPERT


20 EXCELLENT ACCESSIBLE SERVICES

Useful numbers

Emergencies (Out of hours)(Monday–Friday 5pm–9am and all day Saturday and Sunday)Highways, footways and street lighting 443 2800(Monday-Friday 8pm-8am, Saturday before 9.30am & after 1pm, all day Sunday and Bank Holidays)Homelessness and Social Services 07659 590081(Monday-Friday 5pm-9am and all day Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays)Housing Repairs 290 7375/449 3958

Additional useful numbers

NewsBenefits (Housing andCouncil Tax)443 4042Births, Marriages and Deaths443 5210Business Rates 443 4089Business Services (Advice,Funding, Recruitment andTraining)477 4000Children’s InformationService443 5633Complaints andCompliments443 4031Consumer Advice/TradingStandards 443 4711Council Tax 443 4476Council Tax and BenefitsFraud Hotline 0800 073 0532Dangerous Buildings/Structures/Trees 443 2380

Education GeneralEnquiries 443 3232General Enquiries489 6000Highways (includingfootways and streetlighting)443 2800Homelessness 290 7190Housing General Enquiries 443 5834Housing Repairs (Knowsley Housing TrustEast)0800 731 2023(Knowsley Housing TrustWest)0500 969694Job Vacancies 443 5000Neighbourhood Wardens

Huyton South443 3395Halewood 443 2171Kirkby South 548 2725

Stockbridge Village 230 0407Tower Hill 547 5183Prescot & Whiston443 4692

Pest Control 443 2455Planning Enquiries443 2380Refuse Collection443 2400School Admissions & Exclusions443 3212School Attendance Service 443 3279School Bus Passes443 5609Traffic Signal Faults443 2349Truancy Hotline 0800 073 6161

NHS Direct0845 4647 24 hours

[email protected]

Young book wormsA TRAILBLAZING newinteractive book for under-fives has been developedwith help from children inthe borough.The 10-week programme,run by Knowsley Sure Startand the Arts Service, gavechildren the chance to takepart in creative activities.Every child aged three tofour in Knowsley will receivethe book as part of the BookStart initiative. Get yourselfa copy by contactingKnowsley Arts Service on0151 443 5619 or [email protected]

Have an ice dayKNOWSLEY councillors havebacked plans to build a£12million indoorsnowdome and icerink inthe borough. If plans go ahead residentscould be skiing andsnowboarding on a hugeslope covered with realsnow. The scheme would bethe first of its kind in theNorth West. A possible site for the six-acre development has beenidentified between StThomas Becket andKnowsley Hey schools inHuyton. Experts predict itwould bring in about £25m a year and create 300 jobs atpeak times.

An inspiring FACEOVER 2,000 residents haveheaded back to theclassroom and enrolled oncourses to improve theireducational skills. The Knowsley Family andCommunity Education(FACE) Service is helpingpeople aged over 16 to reachtheir potential.FACE runs adult courses invarious secondary schools,the three city learningcentres and all Knowsleylibraries.The service offers courses ineverything from art toaerobics, childcare to cakedecorating and many more.For more information visitwww.knowsleyleaadulteducation.co.uk – or contact yourchild’s school, or call443 4501.

FireHuyton Fire Station, Huyton Lane,Huyton. 01744 697712Kirkby Fire Station, Webster Drive,Kirkby. 0151 546 5151Whiston Fire Station, Fire StationRoad, Whiston. 0151 426 6424.PoliceHalewood Police Station, Leathers Lane, Halewood. Open Monday–Saturday 7am–10pm,Sunday 10am–6pm.

Huyton Police Station, Lathom Road,Huyton. Open 24 hours.Kirkby Police Station, St Chads Drive,Kirkby. Open 24 hours.Prescot Police Station, Derby Street,Prescot. Monday-Friday 7am–11pm,Saturday 10am-6pm.To contact your police station callMerseyside Police switchboard on 0151 709 6010.Citizens Advice0845 1221300


WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK 21WWW.KNOWSLEY.GOV.UK 21

Switch on to interactiveGET information and advice, report faults, search local events and even contact Knowsley News – all from the comfort of your couch. By Vicki Gianelli

Digital television is enablingresidents in Knowsley tointeract with a range of

council services – at the click of a remote control.

If you have access to Sky, Telewest orNTL services – then you can accessKnowsley’s digi site.

Knowsley was one of the first localauthorities in the country to ‘go live’with its digi service in 2000, whichprovides details on various councilservices from library to sportsfacilities, pest control to consumeradvice, recruitment, council tax,housing benefits, leisure activities andmuch more. You can even contactMerseyside Fire Service to arrange ahome safety check.

Through Directgov, Knowsley’sDigiTV allows people who don’t havethe internet or computer knowledge toget online. You can requestinformation, report faults, or obtainadvice by sending an email from yourtelevision set direct to the council. Even

if you don’t own a computer, or theinternet – you can still contact thecouncil interactively.

As the technology develops, DigiTVhopes to introduce more interactiveservices and transactions.

The UK is planning to switch todigital broadcasting by 2012, andtelevision is a perfect medium to reach the public, with 44 per cent ofthe population already having access to digital TV.

South Yorkshire is currently pilotinga scheme that allows people to book adoctor’s appointment through the digisite. There are also plans to linkdirectly into local community forums,so you can pose questions and receivefeedback from meetings.

Over 25,000 people in Knowsleycurrently use DigiTV and figures arerising. With the IndependentTelevision Commission predicting upto 75% of UK households will havedigital television by 2007, it is time toswitch on, interact and enjoy.

FEATURE

Telewest/NTL• Press interactive• Choose News & Info• Choose Direct Gov• Choose Local Info• Select Local SearchA local search will be displayed where you can key inthe postcode, town or village name using your remotecontrol or keypad.

Sky• Press interactive• Choose News & Info• Choose Direct Gov• Choose Local Info• Select Local SearchA local search will be displayed with the postcode pre-filled. Sky technology knows where the box is located.You can change the postcode using your remote if youwish to search for another local authority.

HOW TO ACCESS COUNCIL SERVICES ON YOUR TV


DESTINED T DAZZLE INCoach predicts glory for Knowsley’s squad By Gareth Roberts

T EENAGERS from Knowsley arefollowing in the footsteps ofMichael Owen, David Beckham

and Wayne Rooney – by seekingStateside glory in the Dallas Cup.

An 18-strong squad travels toAmerica on 29 March for the youthtournament, playing in New York andAustin before the tournament kicks offin Dallas on 9 April.

A Knowsley under-19 team hascompeted in the annual tournamentsince 1991, reaching the semi-finals in2000 and the quarter-finals last year.

Kevin Hodgson, who played forKnowsley in the 1996 and 1997tournaments, now coaches the class of2006. The 28 year-old from Huytonwent on to play semi-professionally and now works with youngsters atTranmere Rovers.

Kevin is confident Knowsley, whohave trained twice a week sinceOctober, can dazzle in Dallas. He said:“The squad is very strong ability-wiseand are probably technically better thanthe teams they will face.

“It will come down to fitness,attitude, discipline and whether they are preparedpsychologically – this iswhat we have beenworking on. If we getthese factors rightthere is no reasonwhy they can’t go allthe way.”

The Dallas Cup is also an excellentopportunity to showcase talents towatching scouts. Huyton-born SwanseaCity hotshot Lee Trundle starred in theDallas Cup, while several players havealso won sporting scholarships.

Andrew Taylor secured a £15,000-a-year scholarship with OklahomaUniversity after playing in last year’scompetition. Kevin is convinced thatthe team of 2006 can go all the way. He added:

“We’ve got a few good lads here whocould go on to make a full-time careerout of the game. They are quality ladsboth on and off the pitch and it will bea great experience for them.”

SPORT SPECIAL

22 BETTER WORK AND LEISURE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL



SPORT SPECIAL

Halewood = Halewood Leisure CentreHuyton = Huyton Leisure CentreKirkby = Kirkby Sports CentreScotchbarn = Scotchbarn LeisureCentre, Prescot

MONDAYBoxing: Kirkby 5pmJu Jitsu: Halewood 6pm, Huyton 7pmKarate: Kirkby 6pmKick boxing: Kirkby 8pm

TUESDAYAthletics: Kirkby 6.30pmBoxing: Kirkby 5pmJunior Football Coaching: Huyton 6pmKarate: Halewood 8pmKick boxing: Halewood 7pm,Huyton 8pmTaekwondo: Kirkby 7pmJunior Badminton: HalewoodPrimary School 4pm

WEDNESDAYBoxing: Kirkby 5.30pm, Halewood 6pmCycling: Kirkby 5.30pmJu Jitsu: Halewood 7.30pmKick boxing: Kirkby 8pmKuk Sool: Huyton 8pm

THURSDAYAthletics: Kirkby 6.30pmBoxing: Kirkby 5pmJu Jitsu: Halewood 7.30pmKarate: Huyton 7pm, Kirkby 7pm.Kick boxing: Halewood 6.30pm,Huyton 8pmTaekwondo: Kirkby 7pmJunior Badminton: BrookfieldHigh School, Kirkby 6pmAdult Badminton: Brookfield HighSchool, Kirkby 8pm (after Easter)

FRIDAYBoxing: Kirkby 5pm, Halewood 6pm Ju Jitsu: Huyton 7pm,Halewood 8pmJunior Basketball: Halewood 7pmKuk Sool: Huyton 7pm

SATURDAYArchery: Halewood 1.15pmJunior Badminton: Huyton12noonKarate: Huyton 11am

SUNDAYJunior Badminton: Kirkby SportsCentre, 12pm

Contact numbers:Halewood: 443 2124Huyton: 443 3786Kirkby: 443 4404Scotchbarn: 443 4643

Knowsley Action Guide

Mayor tees off forcharity

WORLD CUPCOMES TOKNOWSLEY

T eams from Iceland, Canada, Germany, France,Republic of Ireland and China will take part in theLiverpool-Knowsley International Youth Soccer

Tournament and Mini Cup. Last year 135 youth teams tookpart, including 25 from abroad.

Tournament organiser Eddy Jennings said: “The quality ofthe football played last year was of a very high standard, attimes it was exceptional. That is why the tournament is nowconsidered by many to be the best of its kind in England.”

The tournament runs from Tuesday 25 July to Sunday 30July at Geoffrey Hughes Playing Fields in Allerton. The MiniCup will be held at King George V Sports Complex in Huytonfrom Saturday 2 July until Sunday 23 July.

For more information contact Eddy Jennings on 443 2154,or visit www.LKsoccertournament.com

BUSINESSES are invited toenter the annual Mayor’sCharity Golf event in May.

The Mayor of Knowsley, Cllr JimKeight, will donate all proceeds toBreathe Easy, which campaigns toprotect people from the harmfuleffects of smoke.

Teams of four can enter for £140(£35 per player) or sponsor Teeboxes for £260 each. Thetournament takes place on Thursday11 May at Blundell’s Hill Golf Club,Rainhill. Using Stableford rules, ittakes in 18 holes, with prizes for the1st, 2nd and 3rd placed teams. Entryfees also include a three-courseevening meal.

Organisers are hoping to repeatthe success of last year, where morethan £2,000 was raised for KnowsleyYoung Carers. For an applicationform or more information, contactDave Mercer at Knowsley Council’sLeisure and Community ServicesDepartment on 443 2152.

KNOWSLEY will stage its own version of theWorld Cup, when one of the biggest youthfootball tournaments kicks off in July.

AWARD HAT-TRICK FOR JUDO COACH

EX-OLYMPIC star TerryPowell is celebrating afterwinning three prestigious

coaching awards, and scoopingrunner-up spot in the UK’sCommunity Coach of the YearAward.

The Halewood star, whocoaches Judo to children inKnowsley, beat off stiffcompetition from across thecountry to win the title.

Terry, 45, first landed theKnowsley District Sports Council’sCoach Award and then went on totriumph at the Merseyside SportsPartnership’s Coach of the Yearceremony. He was thenautomatically entered into thenational competition held at theDorchester Hotel in London.

He said: “Winning all threeawards was just fantastic andgoing to the Dorchester was agreat experience. We were justthrilled to be there. A highlightwas meeting Sir Bobby Robson,who picked up an award foroutstanding achievements in sport.

“Judo has been my life for 23years and I am happy to pass onmy skills and knowledge tochildren in the borough.”

Terry is now being spurredout of retirement by the BritishJudo Association and is backinto training for the sport whichwon him a bronze in the AtlantaParalympic Games.

Terry’s wife Shelley added:“I thought my days of being aJudo widow were in the past butit seems Terry will be taking thesport up once again. I am sopleased and proud that he

won the awards. He has spent so much time within thecommunity giving somethingback after many years inthe sport.”

Both of Terry’s sons see theirfather as a role model. Dan, 14,and Marc, 16, have followed inhis footsteps and enjoy Judosessions.

Terry currently coacheschildren aged six to 12 atHalewood Inclusive Judo Clubat Halewood Leisure Centre. To find out more call 0151 4432124.

National prize inspires former bronze medallist to come out of retirement.

Terry Powell (pictured with a class)


COMPETITION

ENTER our 2006 John Smith’sGrand National competitionand you could be enjoyingthe biggest racing event ofthe year!

EVERYONE is scrambling for tickets tothis showpiece event, but we’ve teamedup with Aintree Racecourse to give you

the chance to win a pair of tickets for theTattersalls Enclosure.

Last year’s meeting pulled in record crowds –with 10 million watching on TV in the UK,and a further 600 million worldwide.

Race-goers at the main event witnessed afairytale story as Hedgehunter won in

sensational style – just 12 months after fallingat the last fence in the 2004 Grand National.

To taste the drama yourself on Saturday 8April, just answer this simple question:

Which horse won the 2005 Grand National? Was it: A. Amberleigh HouseB. HedgehunterC. West Tip

Send you answer, along with your name,address and daytime telephone number to:Grand National Competition, KnowsleyCouncil, Communications, MunicipalBuildings, Archway Road, Huyton, L36 9YU.Closing date for entries is Monday April 32006. Usual competition rules apply.

WIN! GRAND

NATIONAL

TICKETS!

BACK AWINNER!


Knowsley Council

Documents

Transcript of Knowsley Council