Oct / Nov 2011www.mat-mag.co.ukFree

THE INDISPENSABLE GUIDE FOR MEN IN LIVERPOOL

ARE YOU TOUGH

ENOUGH?interview:

JOHN BISHOP

GET THE LOOKA /W 11

WIN! A JAMIECARRAGHER

signed shirt

A masterclassIN SHAVING

the ultimateBACHELOR PAD

UNITS 41/42, METQUARTER CENTRE, LIVERPOOL, L1 6DATEL: 0151 227 2857WWW.FIRETRAP.COM

UNITS 41/42, METQUARTER CENTRE, LIVERPOOL, L1 6DATEL: 0151 227 2857WWW.FIRETRAP.COM

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 54 \

EDITOR’SLETTERJames Parry

elcome to the first issue ofMan About Town, Liverpool’s indispensable guide for men. This

magazine has been created for men devoted to the pursuit of pleasure in Liverpool. We use the very best industry professionals to guarantee you get the best articles and features to hand in this excellent quality and perfectly sized magazine.

Man About Town also has an interactive website, (www.mat-mag.co.uk), enabling readers access to the magazine. You can also sign up to our free newsletter, enter our competitions and get the latest information on style, grooming, food, drink and entertainment in Liverpool. You can also follow us on twitter (@Man_AboutTown) and ‘like’ us on Facebook.

We’re also looking for men interested in blogging about any of the categories covered in the magazine - if you think you’re Man About Town material contact me through the website to find out more!

James

Natalie Jones started out as an apprentice hairstylist in 1993 and has since gained 15 years of the highest level of training and experience with Sassoon.www.sassoon.com

Ian Harrold began hairdressing in 1991 and is the owner of Attitude Men’s Hair salon on Rose Lane, Mossley Hill. He is also a lead educator for American Crew. www.attitudemenshair.co.uk

Simon Whitnall is the founder of Synergy Health Studios and Synergy Fitness Camps, one of the leading one-on-one and group training providers in the UK. www.synergyhealthstudios.co.uk

Paul Knowles is an award-winning networker & the director of PKPR agency, with offices in Liverpool, Manchester, London & Dubai. www.pkpr.co.uk

Sean Bailey is a PGA Professional Class AAT, turning pro in 1996. He has gained over 15 years of experience working with the likes of Scott Canfield, European tour golf coach. www.seanbaileygolflessons.co.uk

Amanda Harrington is a model, columnist and has featured in modelling campaigns, TV shows and has recently launched her very own modelling school.www.amandaharrington.com

Frank McKenna is the founder and chairman of Downtown Liverpool in Business, one of the most influential business organisations in the North West. www.downtownliverpool.com.

Charlie Womersley has had over 25 years of experience in the wine trade. He is the director of Why Not Wine - a wine tasting company. www.whynotwine.biz

Natalie Byrne is responsible for the Design & Art Direction of Man About Town. Natalie’s success in design has allowed her to work creatively with some of the largest brands in the UK www.shishi-design.com

///////////////// CONTRIBUTERS //////////////////

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

CONTENTS

\ Armani Exchange

\ Weavers Door A/W 11

\ Review: Sassoon Salon

\ A Materclass in Shaving

\ Golf & Exercise Tips

\ Honda Civic Mugen

\ Cover Story: Jon Wilkin

\ PKPR Events

06.08.09.10.12.13.14.16.

\ What Women Want

\ MAT Women

\ Networking: Essential Tool

\ Ultimate Bachelor Pad

\ Interview: John Bishop

\ 23 Foundation

\ What About Wine

\ A Night at FACT

20.21.22.23.24.27.28.30.

A signed and authenticated Jamie Carragher Liverpool shirt OR a gift set worth £50 filled with American Crew essentials.To enter simply sign up to our newsletter on www.mat-mag.co.uk by Friday 11th November 2011. Names will be drawn at random and winners will be informed via e-mail on Friday 18th November 2011.

Disclaimer:The information contained within Man About Town we believe to be correct at the time of printing. No responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions. Please refer to the terms and conditions for advertisers on our website. Reproduction of any of this magazine, partial or whole, is strictly forbidden.

Print / Branding / Illustration / Web Album Artwork / Editorial / Art Direction

www.shishi-design.com

Shishi Design

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 54 \

EDITOR’SLETTERJames Parry

elcome to the first issue ofMan About Town, Liverpool’s indispensable guide for men. This

magazine has been created for men devoted to the pursuit of pleasure in Liverpool. We use the very best industry professionals to guarantee you get the best articles and features to hand in this excellent quality and perfectly sized magazine.

Man About Town also has an interactive website, (www.mat-mag.co.uk), enabling readers access to the magazine. You can also sign up to our free newsletter, enter our competitions and get the latest information on style, grooming, food, drink and entertainment in Liverpool. You can also follow us on twitter (@Man_AboutTown) and ‘like’ us on Facebook.

We’re also looking for men interested in blogging about any of the categories covered in the magazine - if you think you’re Man About Town material contact me through the website to find out more!

James

Natalie Jones started out as an apprentice hairstylist in 1993 and has since gained 15 years of the highest level of training and experience with Sassoon.www.sassoon.com

Ian Harrold began hairdressing in 1991 and is the owner of Attitude Men’s Hair salon on Rose Lane, Mossley Hill. He is also a lead educator for American Crew. www.attitudemenshair.co.uk

Simon Whitnall is the founder of Synergy Health Studios and Synergy Fitness Camps, one of the leading one-on-one and group training providers in the UK. www.synergyhealthstudios.co.uk

Paul Knowles is an award-winning networker & the director of PKPR agency, with offices in Liverpool, Manchester, London & Dubai. www.pkpr.co.uk

Sean Bailey is a PGA Professional Class AAT, turning pro in 1996. He has gained over 15 years of experience working with the likes of Scott Canfield, European tour golf coach. www.seanbaileygolflessons.co.uk

Amanda Harrington is a model, columnist and has featured in modelling campaigns, TV shows and has recently launched her very own modelling school.www.amandaharrington.com

Frank McKenna is the founder and chairman of Downtown Liverpool in Business, one of the most influential business organisations in the North West. www.downtownliverpool.com.

Charlie Womersley has had over 25 years of experience in the wine trade. He is the director of Why Not Wine - a wine tasting company. www.whynotwine.biz

Natalie Byrne is responsible for the Design & Art Direction of Man About Town. Natalie’s success in design has allowed her to work creatively with some of the largest brands in the UK www.shishi-design.com

///////////////// CONTRIBUTERS //////////////////

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

CONTENTS

\ Armani Exchange

\ Weavers Door A/W 11

\ Review: Sassoon Salon

\ A Materclass in Shaving

\ Golf & Exercise Tips

\ Honda Civic Mugen

\ Cover Story: Jon Wilkin

\ PKPR Events

06.08.09.10.12.13.14.16.

\ What Women Want

\ MAT Women

\ Networking: Essential Tool

\ Ultimate Bachelor Pad

\ Interview: John Bishop

\ 23 Foundation

\ What About Wine

\ A Night at FACT

20.21.22.23.24.27.28.30.

A signed and authenticated Jamie Carragher Liverpool shirt OR a gift set worth £50 filled with American Crew essentials.To enter simply sign up to our newsletter on www.mat-mag.co.uk by Friday 11th November 2011. Names will be drawn at random and winners will be informed via e-mail on Friday 18th November 2011.

Disclaimer:The information contained within Man About Town we believe to be correct at the time of printing. No responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions. Please refer to the terms and conditions for advertisers on our website. Reproduction of any of this magazine, partial or whole, is strictly forbidden.

Print / Branding / Illustration / Web Album Artwork / Editorial / Art Direction

www.shishi-design.com

Shishi Design

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 76 \

{LOOK 1} {LOOK 4}{LOOK 2} {LOOK 5}{LOOK 3} {LOOK 6}

Available at:Armani ExchangeThe Metquarter,35 Whitechapel,Liverpool,L1 6DA

Get the Lookwith Armani Exchange

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 76 \

{LOOK 1} {LOOK 4}{LOOK 2} {LOOK 5}{LOOK 3} {LOOK 6}

Available at:Armani ExchangeThe Metquarter,35 Whitechapel,Liverpool,L1 6DA

Get the Lookwith Armani Exchange

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 98 \

Jeans The main thing to think about is fit and wash. Faded, ripped or baggy are no-nos. Go for a saturated wash, dark indigo or steel grey, and a flattering fit – skinny, slim or boot cut. Alternatively smart cotton trousers in light coloured fabrics work well. Try jeans by Edwin Japan, such as ED67 Blue Quartz £79.99 or Carhartt Sid Chino Pants in Light Tan - £60.00.

Blazer If well cut, a blazer is a fail-safe classic and adds elegant chic to almost any smart/casual outfit. Look out for lack of structure, easy fit and make sure it is not in a traditional colour of black or grey, and most definitely not pin striped! Single breasted jackets are best for this look. These can be worn with a fine knit polo shirt or well-fitting t-shirt. In store, we have some denim blazers that aren’t too structured so keep the look relaxed but smart. Try this Hyde jacket by Universal Works in Indigo - £69.99

Shoes Trainers won’t cut it for men, unless you work in media, in which case wear your vintage Adidas with pride. Otherwise aim for classic deck shoes, loafers or suede brogues. Try the Folk Alaric Shoe in Tan Suede - £95.00.

All available at Weaver’s Door in Cavern Walks.

It can be difficult to achieve an appropriate smart/casual look for the office & the key to getting it right takes a bit of thought. The main thing is that you pull together an outfit that is relaxed, classic & chic.

WEAVERS DOORAUTUMN/WINTER 11by Lee Fleming

Review

When entering the Sassoon salon you are greeted at the front desk with a smile. After confirming my appointment I was asked if I wanted a drink and my coat was taken and hung up. As I waited to be introduced to my stylist I sat in the comfortable waiting area and looked around the salon which is a clean and contemporary space filled with stylish people.

After a couple of minutes I was introduced to Natalie Jones, the salon director, who would be cutting my hair. This was my first salon experience and I was unsure of what to expect. However Natalie made me feel instantly relaxed and welcome as she chatted to me. Normally I take a picture with me to achieve a certain style. Natalie knew the exact steps in order to help me get the look.

Throughout the cutting Natalie explained to me how to style my hair to match the picture, and the products my hair type would need. I felt that having my hair styled at Sassoon was very educational. I picked up certain tips that could really make a difference to how I would normally style my hair. Natalie did a great job on getting my hair

to match the look I wanted whilst making it suit my hair type and texture. I would highly recommend Sassoon to all men who are looking for an excellent haircut with great customer service.

At Sassoon we believe that the basis to a man’s perfect haircut is excellent technique and an innate feeling for suitability. Our barbers are trained to a high standard of specialisation to have a comprehensive knowledge of head shape, hair texture and hair structure to achieve meticulously crafted looks to suit your own personal image, whether timeless, classic or fashionable.

Our clients can relax in the knowledge that they are in expert hands, addressing their personal hair and scalp problems and prescribing solutions from our comprehensive range of male specific products. Our colour experts specialise in male colour requirements, and are skilled in reducing the level of visible grey hair, giving a lasting natural-looking appearance.

The Client Experience:

Sassoon Men

by James Parry

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 98 \

Jeans The main thing to think about is fit and wash. Faded, ripped or baggy are no-nos. Go for a saturated wash, dark indigo or steel grey, and a flattering fit – skinny, slim or boot cut. Alternatively smart cotton trousers in light coloured fabrics work well. Try jeans by Edwin Japan, such as ED67 Blue Quartz £79.99 or Carhartt Sid Chino Pants in Light Tan - £60.00.

Blazer If well cut, a blazer is a fail-safe classic and adds elegant chic to almost any smart/casual outfit. Look out for lack of structure, easy fit and make sure it is not in a traditional colour of black or grey, and most definitely not pin striped! Single breasted jackets are best for this look. These can be worn with a fine knit polo shirt or well-fitting t-shirt. In store, we have some denim blazers that aren’t too structured so keep the look relaxed but smart. Try this Hyde jacket by Universal Works in Indigo - £69.99

Shoes Trainers won’t cut it for men, unless you work in media, in which case wear your vintage Adidas with pride. Otherwise aim for classic deck shoes, loafers or suede brogues. Try the Folk Alaric Shoe in Tan Suede - £95.00.

All available at Weaver’s Door in Cavern Walks.

It can be difficult to achieve an appropriate smart/casual look for the office & the key to getting it right takes a bit of thought. The main thing is that you pull together an outfit that is relaxed, classic & chic.

WEAVERS DOORAUTUMN/WINTER 11by Lee Fleming

Review

When entering the Sassoon salon you are greeted at the front desk with a smile. After confirming my appointment I was asked if I wanted a drink and my coat was taken and hung up. As I waited to be introduced to my stylist I sat in the comfortable waiting area and looked around the salon which is a clean and contemporary space filled with stylish people.

After a couple of minutes I was introduced to Natalie Jones, the salon director, who would be cutting my hair. This was my first salon experience and I was unsure of what to expect. However Natalie made me feel instantly relaxed and welcome as she chatted to me. Normally I take a picture with me to achieve a certain style. Natalie knew the exact steps in order to help me get the look.

Throughout the cutting Natalie explained to me how to style my hair to match the picture, and the products my hair type would need. I felt that having my hair styled at Sassoon was very educational. I picked up certain tips that could really make a difference to how I would normally style my hair. Natalie did a great job on getting my hair

to match the look I wanted whilst making it suit my hair type and texture. I would highly recommend Sassoon to all men who are looking for an excellent haircut with great customer service.

At Sassoon we believe that the basis to a man’s perfect haircut is excellent technique and an innate feeling for suitability. Our barbers are trained to a high standard of specialisation to have a comprehensive knowledge of head shape, hair texture and hair structure to achieve meticulously crafted looks to suit your own personal image, whether timeless, classic or fashionable.

Our clients can relax in the knowledge that they are in expert hands, addressing their personal hair and scalp problems and prescribing solutions from our comprehensive range of male specific products. Our colour experts specialise in male colour requirements, and are skilled in reducing the level of visible grey hair, giving a lasting natural-looking appearance.

The Client Experience:

Sassoon Men

by James Parry

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1110 \

s the owner of Attitude mens style salon and part of the global American Crew education team, I perform and teach cut throat shaving so I often get asked for hints and tips for the

perfect shave. Firstly you should always shave in the morning but not as soon as you get out of bed. Give yourself about 30 minutes to allow the muscles in your face to wake up. so have a shower or a bath first and also brush your teeth this as will work your jaw and stimulate your facial muscles. You can try my top ten tips to the perfect shave at home.

American crew lubricating shave oil - this will soften thick beards and will leave no air pockets in the skin which helps prevent nicks. American crew moisturising shave cream for thick beards. Apply with a shaving brush, I recommend MENU brushes which are available at good barbershops. The razor I recommend at the moment is the Gillette Mach 3, however we are now testing a variety of different brands! We’ll let you know the verdict in the Christmas issue.

If you would like to try the professional shave then I recommend you book in to Attitude mens hair. We offer a relaxing 1 hour service where we will provide a full consultation and advise you on any problems you have when shaving yourself. We will also give you personal tips and prepare you for the rest of your day or night on the town. Packages are available so call 0151 724 5277 and give yourself time to enjoy the ritual so many of us see as a chore. www.attitudemenshair.co.uk

Given that the average man spends just 3.5

minutes on a shave and will have spent 900 hours shaving between the ages of 15 to 75, don’t you think we owe it to

ourselves to learn how to do it properly?

Wash your face with hot water.

Rub a small amount of moisturising creaminto your face.

Apply a pre-shave oil.

Apply shaving cream with a brush.

Shave with the grain of your beard. Down your cheeks and chin, down under your neck until the point where the collar of a shirt would sit. Below that line your beard will change direction so in order to continue shaving with the grain of your beard, you need to turn your razor around & shave back towards your chin.

Clean your razor between strokes to stop build up in between the blades.

Rinse your face with warm water afterwards.

Press a cold flannel into your face to closethe pores.

Use a moisturiser on the skin afterwards. Do not use any alcohol based products.

Change your blade after 3 to 5 shaves.

TOP 10 TIPS:

The Essential Shaving Tools

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1110 \

s the owner of Attitude mens style salon and part of the global American Crew education team, I perform and teach cut throat shaving so I often get asked for hints and tips for the

perfect shave. Firstly you should always shave in the morning but not as soon as you get out of bed. Give yourself about 30 minutes to allow the muscles in your face to wake up. so have a shower or a bath first and also brush your teeth this as will work your jaw and stimulate your facial muscles. You can try my top ten tips to the perfect shave at home.

American crew lubricating shave oil - this will soften thick beards and will leave no air pockets in the skin which helps prevent nicks. American crew moisturising shave cream for thick beards. Apply with a shaving brush, I recommend MENU brushes which are available at good barbershops. The razor I recommend at the moment is the Gillette Mach 3, however we are now testing a variety of different brands! We’ll let you know the verdict in the Christmas issue.

If you would like to try the professional shave then I recommend you book in to Attitude mens hair. We offer a relaxing 1 hour service where we will provide a full consultation and advise you on any problems you have when shaving yourself. We will also give you personal tips and prepare you for the rest of your day or night on the town. Packages are available so call 0151 724 5277 and give yourself time to enjoy the ritual so many of us see as a chore. www.attitudemenshair.co.uk

Given that the average man spends just 3.5

minutes on a shave and will have spent 900 hours shaving between the ages of 15 to 75, don’t you think we owe it to

ourselves to learn how to do it properly?

Wash your face with hot water.

Rub a small amount of moisturising creaminto your face.

Apply a pre-shave oil.

Apply shaving cream with a brush.

Shave with the grain of your beard. Down your cheeks and chin, down under your neck until the point where the collar of a shirt would sit. Below that line your beard will change direction so in order to continue shaving with the grain of your beard, you need to turn your razor around & shave back towards your chin.

Clean your razor between strokes to stop build up in between the blades.

Rinse your face with warm water afterwards.

Press a cold flannel into your face to closethe pores.

Use a moisturiser on the skin afterwards. Do not use any alcohol based products.

Change your blade after 3 to 5 shaves.

TOP 10 TIPS:

The Essential Shaving Tools

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1312 \

TIP #1: Bend your hipsBending your hips forward immediately flattens your back and holds you in good posture. How to do it: Push your rear end up & out & try to get your belt to point at the ball

TIP #2: Get a power tiltYour right hips should never sit higher than left at address. This is the secret to tilting your spine away from the target.How to do it: Bump your left hip slightly to the left at address. You should feel your right shoulder drop and your upper body lean to the right.

TIP #3: Align Your ForearmsYour club will tend to swing back on the line created by your forearms at address. How to do it: Place the club behind the ball with both arms straight. Then align your right elbow towards your right hip.

TIP #3: Stay in postureThe quickest way to lose distance is by moving away or towards the ball in your back swing. How to do it: Swing with your rear against a chair and maintain pressure throughout.

TIP #3: Increase your wrist hingeAll big hitters increase the angle between their left wrist & left forearm in the transition or “a late hit” How to do it: Keep the wrists loose when you swing, “oily” is a good term to think about.

hen PGA coach Sean Bailey talks about a longer drive it’s all to do with club head speed. Mechanically there are ideal positions to get your body

into for optimal club head speed. However, as Sean says not everyone can get their body into these positions. This is where human movement and biomechanics specialist Simon Whitnall comes in to optimize your body’s movement, specific to what Sean requires to increase your club head speed and driving distance.

First thing to do is have a go at the following tips. If you struggle to get into the positions get in contact with Sean or Simon at www.synergyhealthstudios.co.uk and they will increase your driving distance in no time.

GOLF & EXERCISETIPSLONGER DRIVE

FOR A

by Sean Bailey & Simon Whitnall

HONDA CIVIC

ugen meaning ‘without limit’ is an engine tuner and parts manufacturer closely associated with the Honda Motor Company. Founded in 1973 by Hirotoshi, son of Honda founder Soichiro, it is still

at the forefront of building and tuning Honda engines today.

This is a genuine Mugen 20, it is Car 4 of only a 20 build line. The Mugen goodies consist of bumpers and sideskirts, 18” Alloys, badges and a colour-coded body in glossy ‘Championship’ white making this Mugen model look like it’s doing 100 mph while sitting at the lights.

This quality Civic is possibly the best handling hatch on the market. The compelling, naturally aspirated engine red-lines at 8,600 rpm and has been re-tuned to give an impressive extra 39 bhp over the normal Type R. You can buy a Mugen-approved engine, suspension and bodywork upgrades through Honda Dealerships, so you can spec your regular Civic to appear visually identical to the Type R, but you can’t reproduce the car’s faster, bespoke engineering.

ENGINE TYPE:ENGINE SIZE:SPEED:TOP SPEED:ENGINE POWER:GEARBOX:COST:

4-CYLINDER1998CC0-62 MPH 6.0S150MPH237BHP6 SPEED£38,599

TECH & SPEC

Two Mills Honda has the Mugen Civic for sale and they are one of only a few Mugen parts suppliers.

Review by The Car Guy

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1312 \

TIP #1: Bend your hipsBending your hips forward immediately flattens your back and holds you in good posture. How to do it: Push your rear end up & out & try to get your belt to point at the ball

TIP #2: Get a power tiltYour right hips should never sit higher than left at address. This is the secret to tilting your spine away from the target.How to do it: Bump your left hip slightly to the left at address. You should feel your right shoulder drop and your upper body lean to the right.

TIP #3: Align Your ForearmsYour club will tend to swing back on the line created by your forearms at address. How to do it: Place the club behind the ball with both arms straight. Then align your right elbow towards your right hip.

TIP #3: Stay in postureThe quickest way to lose distance is by moving away or towards the ball in your back swing. How to do it: Swing with your rear against a chair and maintain pressure throughout.

TIP #3: Increase your wrist hingeAll big hitters increase the angle between their left wrist & left forearm in the transition or “a late hit” How to do it: Keep the wrists loose when you swing, “oily” is a good term to think about.

hen PGA coach Sean Bailey talks about a longer drive it’s all to do with club head speed. Mechanically there are ideal positions to get your body

into for optimal club head speed. However, as Sean says not everyone can get their body into these positions. This is where human movement and biomechanics specialist Simon Whitnall comes in to optimize your body’s movement, specific to what Sean requires to increase your club head speed and driving distance.

First thing to do is have a go at the following tips. If you struggle to get into the positions get in contact with Sean or Simon at www.synergyhealthstudios.co.uk and they will increase your driving distance in no time.

GOLF & EXERCISETIPSLONGER DRIVE

FOR A

by Sean Bailey & Simon Whitnall

HONDA CIVIC

ugen meaning ‘without limit’ is an engine tuner and parts manufacturer closely associated with the Honda Motor Company. Founded in 1973 by Hirotoshi, son of Honda founder Soichiro, it is still

at the forefront of building and tuning Honda engines today.

This is a genuine Mugen 20, it is Car 4 of only a 20 build line. The Mugen goodies consist of bumpers and sideskirts, 18” Alloys, badges and a colour-coded body in glossy ‘Championship’ white making this Mugen model look like it’s doing 100 mph while sitting at the lights.

This quality Civic is possibly the best handling hatch on the market. The compelling, naturally aspirated engine red-lines at 8,600 rpm and has been re-tuned to give an impressive extra 39 bhp over the normal Type R. You can buy a Mugen-approved engine, suspension and bodywork upgrades through Honda Dealerships, so you can spec your regular Civic to appear visually identical to the Type R, but you can’t reproduce the car’s faster, bespoke engineering.

ENGINE TYPE:ENGINE SIZE:SPEED:TOP SPEED:ENGINE POWER:GEARBOX:COST:

4-CYLINDER1998CC0-62 MPH 6.0S150MPH237BHP6 SPEED£38,599

TECH & SPEC

Two Mills Honda has the Mugen Civic for sale and they are one of only a few Mugen parts suppliers.

Review by The Car Guy

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1514 \

an About Town cover star, St Helens Rugby league and England player Jon ‘Wilko’ Wilkin speaks to

Man About Town about his passion, Rugby League and why you should get involved.

Rugby league has been a passion and my career for ten seasons, resulting in my testimonial season next year. The sport is facing a crossroads. It has become ideally placed to attract the fans and supporters of a rival sport that has alienated the everyday man, in large due to the staggering sums of money involved. One of football’s strengths is that it has elevated itself to an aspirational level to everyday people. However, the lifestyle and fame is unachievable for the majority, people always want what they can’t have in life. For football fans, premiership football is the distant dream that is out of touch- unless you buy a replica shirt, take to the terraces or contribute to the massive TV audience.

Rugby league is a viable alternative. The players and the lifestyle is achievable, it’s a sport built around affordability, family and the community. The stars of the game are approachable and don’t have the mystique carried by professional footballers in particular. Rugby League has a massive opportunity to recruit a following as a result of all the great characteristics I have listed above. Juniors can watch for just £1.92 per game at St Helens, whilst families can enjoy Super League action for just £4.71 per person per game in the 2012 season. The St Helens ‘Saints’, my team, also boast one

of the finest rugby stadiums in the country, an 18500 capacity stadium with fantastic facilities which is brand new for the 2012 season. So why not give rugby league a go? In my eyes it’s the toughest, most aggressive and physically demanding sport in the world. I admit it, I am biased but what’s not to love about a game that’s allowed me to legally shoulder charge people at school and exact vendettas within the rules of a game that sometimes was even applauded by teachers!

Toughness has many faces in professional sport and different sports display it in so many ways. Rugby league is a game built around the concept of toughness and it’s a journey that has taken me through the harshest of pains and to the highest levels of euphoria. From an early age rugby league teaches you to ignore your human instincts, running full speed into a head on collision is an alien concept to most people but for those of you who can even entertain that violent concept, rugby is the game for you!

ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH?

Violence is a major part of the game and the violence and frequency of collisions inherently leads to injury. My career has been punctuated by injury and surgery to most of the joints in my body. I’ve had two operations on my right knee, one on my left, both hands broken as well as several fingers, left elbow, right shoulder, nose, groin and last and worst of all a disc removed from my neck leaving me with numb fingertips in my right hand. I am not exceptional in any way, most players also suffer a similar fate and do so with little complaint. I have played alongside players who have carried on playing with fractured cheekbones, teeth knocked out, noses broken, and have even watched a player snap a dislocated finger back into place and never speak a word of it. The sport is played by tough people, both mentally and physically who spend a lot of time in pain and trying not to show that pain. Even if they felt like falling to the ground and rolling around it would be met by disbelief and ridicule.

The game has very many admirable traditions: manners, honesty and camaraderie that transcend on the field feuds. I know that these characteristics are envied by other sports and their viewers. I am thankful for a sport that has given me discipline and a mental toughness that will never leave me. It has also given me a limp and a wonky nose mind, but all of it has been worth it. Especially when I fulfilled a childhood dream and walked up the steps at Wembley in 2007 in front of 90000 people for the Challenge Cup Final. If you haven’t watched a game of rugby league you must do so, St Helens is on your doorstep and I know if Liverpool embraces the sport it will fall in love with the game like I did.

by Jon Wilkin

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1514 \

an About Town cover star, St Helens Rugby league and England player Jon ‘Wilko’ Wilkin speaks to

Man About Town about his passion, Rugby League and why you should get involved.

Rugby league has been a passion and my career for ten seasons, resulting in my testimonial season next year. The sport is facing a crossroads. It has become ideally placed to attract the fans and supporters of a rival sport that has alienated the everyday man, in large due to the staggering sums of money involved. One of football’s strengths is that it has elevated itself to an aspirational level to everyday people. However, the lifestyle and fame is unachievable for the majority, people always want what they can’t have in life. For football fans, premiership football is the distant dream that is out of touch- unless you buy a replica shirt, take to the terraces or contribute to the massive TV audience.

Rugby league is a viable alternative. The players and the lifestyle is achievable, it’s a sport built around affordability, family and the community. The stars of the game are approachable and don’t have the mystique carried by professional footballers in particular. Rugby League has a massive opportunity to recruit a following as a result of all the great characteristics I have listed above. Juniors can watch for just £1.92 per game at St Helens, whilst families can enjoy Super League action for just £4.71 per person per game in the 2012 season. The St Helens ‘Saints’, my team, also boast one

of the finest rugby stadiums in the country, an 18500 capacity stadium with fantastic facilities which is brand new for the 2012 season. So why not give rugby league a go? In my eyes it’s the toughest, most aggressive and physically demanding sport in the world. I admit it, I am biased but what’s not to love about a game that’s allowed me to legally shoulder charge people at school and exact vendettas within the rules of a game that sometimes was even applauded by teachers!

Toughness has many faces in professional sport and different sports display it in so many ways. Rugby league is a game built around the concept of toughness and it’s a journey that has taken me through the harshest of pains and to the highest levels of euphoria. From an early age rugby league teaches you to ignore your human instincts, running full speed into a head on collision is an alien concept to most people but for those of you who can even entertain that violent concept, rugby is the game for you!

ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH?

Violence is a major part of the game and the violence and frequency of collisions inherently leads to injury. My career has been punctuated by injury and surgery to most of the joints in my body. I’ve had two operations on my right knee, one on my left, both hands broken as well as several fingers, left elbow, right shoulder, nose, groin and last and worst of all a disc removed from my neck leaving me with numb fingertips in my right hand. I am not exceptional in any way, most players also suffer a similar fate and do so with little complaint. I have played alongside players who have carried on playing with fractured cheekbones, teeth knocked out, noses broken, and have even watched a player snap a dislocated finger back into place and never speak a word of it. The sport is played by tough people, both mentally and physically who spend a lot of time in pain and trying not to show that pain. Even if they felt like falling to the ground and rolling around it would be met by disbelief and ridicule.

The game has very many admirable traditions: manners, honesty and camaraderie that transcend on the field feuds. I know that these characteristics are envied by other sports and their viewers. I am thankful for a sport that has given me discipline and a mental toughness that will never leave me. It has also given me a limp and a wonky nose mind, but all of it has been worth it. Especially when I fulfilled a childhood dream and walked up the steps at Wembley in 2007 in front of 90000 people for the Challenge Cup Final. If you haven’t watched a game of rugby league you must do so, St Helens is on your doorstep and I know if Liverpool embraces the sport it will fall in love with the game like I did.

by Jon Wilkin

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1716 \

Japanese restaurant Sakura hosted a champagne evening recently to introduce the new owner and management team to specially invited guests. Champagne & canapés were served under Liverpool’s biggest canopy which is heated all year round and serves light lunches & bar food throughout the day. Once inside the restaurant guests were entertainment by a selection of the restaurants live entertainment before a collection of cocktails from the bar was showcased www.sakuraliverpool.com 0151 236 2113

PAUL KNOWLES MANAGING DIRECTOR ATPKPR REPORTS ON LIVERPOOL’S EVENTS

Liverpool’s latest skin clinic launched two state-of-the-art clinics recently. The first clinic is situated on Eaton Road opposite Alder Hey Hospital and the second in Woolton Village. The next clinic to open will be in the city centre. The launch of Eaton Road stopped traffic as celebrities arrived at the marquee outside the clinic. Crowds gathered to get a glimpse of Abbey Crouch (Née Clancy) as the paparazzi lined up to take photographs. Woolton Village was a similar affair in a marquee outside the clinic formally known as the boat house.

Hotel Indigo Liverpool & Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill rolled out its orange carpet & welcomed guests to its official launch party. A selection of celebrities attended the swanky Chapel Street event including TV chef Marco & actress Jennifer Ellison. plus Hollyoaks stars Jessica Fox, Claire Cooper, Karen Hassan & Emmett Scanlan.

Liverpool Football Club hosted their first awards ceremony recently for over 50 staff who had graduated from their apprentice-based training programmes provided by leading training organisation Sysco. The clubs Commercial Director, Andrew Parkinson, & new signing Jose Enriq congratulated employees at all levels for their outstanding achievements in areas such as team leading and customer service, while all were praised for their ‘can-do attitude at all times’.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1716 \

Japanese restaurant Sakura hosted a champagne evening recently to introduce the new owner and management team to specially invited guests. Champagne & canapés were served under Liverpool’s biggest canopy which is heated all year round and serves light lunches & bar food throughout the day. Once inside the restaurant guests were entertainment by a selection of the restaurants live entertainment before a collection of cocktails from the bar was showcased www.sakuraliverpool.com 0151 236 2113

PAUL KNOWLES MANAGING DIRECTOR ATPKPR REPORTS ON LIVERPOOL’S EVENTS

Liverpool’s latest skin clinic launched two state-of-the-art clinics recently. The first clinic is situated on Eaton Road opposite Alder Hey Hospital and the second in Woolton Village. The next clinic to open will be in the city centre. The launch of Eaton Road stopped traffic as celebrities arrived at the marquee outside the clinic. Crowds gathered to get a glimpse of Abbey Crouch (Née Clancy) as the paparazzi lined up to take photographs. Woolton Village was a similar affair in a marquee outside the clinic formally known as the boat house.

Hotel Indigo Liverpool & Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill rolled out its orange carpet & welcomed guests to its official launch party. A selection of celebrities attended the swanky Chapel Street event including TV chef Marco & actress Jennifer Ellison. plus Hollyoaks stars Jessica Fox, Claire Cooper, Karen Hassan & Emmett Scanlan.

Liverpool Football Club hosted their first awards ceremony recently for over 50 staff who had graduated from their apprentice-based training programmes provided by leading training organisation Sysco. The clubs Commercial Director, Andrew Parkinson, & new signing Jose Enriq congratulated employees at all levels for their outstanding achievements in areas such as team leading and customer service, while all were praised for their ‘can-do attitude at all times’.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1918 \

Malmaison is back on Princes Dock. Top city movers and shakers partied with an abundance of sexy soap stars at one of the most lavish bashes ever to be held in Liverpool. There were among 400 guests who were invited to the huge celebration to mark the relaunch of our pride and joy. Hollyoaks beauties including Sarah Dunn, Stephanie Davis, Sinead Moynihan, Rachel Shelton, Gemma Merna, Stephaine Waring and Leah Hackett also attended the celebrations at the the hotel.

Radio City Cash for Kids held their annual charity event at Palm Sugar Lounge, Liverpool One. The 24 hour live broadcast by Rossie & Co started at 8am on Thursday morning until 8am Friday morning. The glamourous venue was transformed into Radio City with hundreds of people participating in various events all for charity

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 1918 \

Malmaison is back on Princes Dock. Top city movers and shakers partied with an abundance of sexy soap stars at one of the most lavish bashes ever to be held in Liverpool. There were among 400 guests who were invited to the huge celebration to mark the relaunch of our pride and joy. Hollyoaks beauties including Sarah Dunn, Stephanie Davis, Sinead Moynihan, Rachel Shelton, Gemma Merna, Stephaine Waring and Leah Hackett also attended the celebrations at the the hotel.

Radio City Cash for Kids held their annual charity event at Palm Sugar Lounge, Liverpool One. The 24 hour live broadcast by Rossie & Co started at 8am on Thursday morning until 8am Friday morning. The glamourous venue was transformed into Radio City with hundreds of people participating in various events all for charity

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2120 \

AMANDAHARRINGTON

WHATWOMENWANT

Every girl wants a bag with their own picture on it! I had this sent to me by a company called Willow itsmebag. You can find them on Facebook. They’ll copy any picture that you ask for! I’ll probably use mine on my next holiday as a beach bag. It’s a great surprise

for any girl!

Every woman loves the luxury of a gorgeous smelling bottle of perfume. Fan di Fendi is fashion house Fendi’s latest perfume offering. It smells floral, fruity and is very light. You can get it from all good perfume departments and

shops throughout the city.

All fashion forward girls have been wearing ChloBo charm bracelets for a while now. They look great worn on the same arm as a watch! You can get them from Cricket in

Liverpool’s Cavern Walks.

by Amanda Harrington Every girl needs a little companion! I’ve just got a chihuahua called Bambi for my daughter Savannah. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I can honestly say any girl would be absolutely over the moon if they were surprised with a puppy. Try putting a bow in its hair if it’s a girl or a diamanté collar if it’s a boy!

I’ve recently become an ambassador for this fabulous lip gloss company based in Liverpool. Not only are the lip glosses pout enhancing, breath freshening and available in amazing colours, they also come with a clever drink spike detector kit to help keep the ladies safe on nights out. They’re available from

www.2lovemylips.com.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2120 \

AMANDAHARRINGTON

WHATWOMENWANT

Every girl wants a bag with their own picture on it! I had this sent to me by a company called Willow itsmebag. You can find them on Facebook. They’ll copy any picture that you ask for! I’ll probably use mine on my next holiday as a beach bag. It’s a great surprise

for any girl!

Every woman loves the luxury of a gorgeous smelling bottle of perfume. Fan di Fendi is fashion house Fendi’s latest perfume offering. It smells floral, fruity and is very light. You can get it from all good perfume departments and

shops throughout the city.

All fashion forward girls have been wearing ChloBo charm bracelets for a while now. They look great worn on the same arm as a watch! You can get them from Cricket in

Liverpool’s Cavern Walks.

by Amanda Harrington Every girl needs a little companion! I’ve just got a chihuahua called Bambi for my daughter Savannah. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I can honestly say any girl would be absolutely over the moon if they were surprised with a puppy. Try putting a bow in its hair if it’s a girl or a diamanté collar if it’s a boy!

I’ve recently become an ambassador for this fabulous lip gloss company based in Liverpool. Not only are the lip glosses pout enhancing, breath freshening and available in amazing colours, they also come with a clever drink spike detector kit to help keep the ladies safe on nights out. They’re available from

www.2lovemylips.com.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2322 \

St. Paul’s Square development is situated in Liverpool’s commercial district and is aimed towards the cities young professionals. The recently opened show apartment showcases functional and stylish city centre living and makes the most of the space available.

The internal spaces are consistently geometric in shape with linear balconies adding to the sharp, masculine feel of the rooms. The ultimate key to designing the interior furniture & finishes was to enhance the contemporary spaces with a minimalist approach to furniture whilst adding a feeling of comfort & warmth with the choice of dressing & accessorising.

The look & style of the furniture chosen is clean lined, simple & most importantly, comfortable with some design classics added to keep an overall modern feel. Keeping the decor neutral in palette creates a sophisticated, timeless backdrop to the furniture & accessories. By adding an interesting wallcovering in a more personal space only, such as the Master Bedroom, creates a welcomed feature without overpowering the rest of the spaces.

A top tip for designing a bachelor pad is to focus on the open plan living space and consider how functional the central pieces of furniture are, such as the sofa, tv unit, armchair & coffee table. These are likely to be the most used items in conjunction with the coolest gadgets and are worth investing the most time, energy and money in to getting them right. If money is no object then adding some oversized designer pieces will become the central focus of the space & decor. Minimal, spacious, modern & comfortable are the key words for designing the ultimate bachelor pad.

St Paul’s Square apartments www.theperfectsquare.co.uk.Interior Design: Fran Guinan at Design that Room

THEULTIMATEBACHELOR

PAD

by Frank McKenna

NETWORKINGTHE ESSENTIAL TOOL

Here I have attempted to offer a guide to how you can maximise the opportunities and value of networking, and ensure that is time spent cultivating business, rather than a waste of your valuable time.

Remember why you’re there Complimentary food and drink may be appetising, but focus on business. Remember names, collect and give out business cards. ‘Of course’, I hear you cry, but I wish I had a pound for every time I have met someone at a networking event who wasn’t carrying a business card. Talk briefly but effectively and don’t bore people. The latest gadget or initiative that has just made your firm 15% more productive may be fascinating to you, but the minutiae will have others yawning and looking for the next vol-au-vent!

You scratch my back Don’t hesitate to introduce your contacts to others where you feel it is relevant. It may not bring any immediate advantage, but in my experience people are very appreciative for good introductions, and will always do their best to return the favour down the line.

Following up Always follow up the contacts you make, the business cards you have collected and people you have met and do it quickly, while it’s fresh in your mind and theirs. It is pointless collecting a dozen business cards and then simply filing them away. How many times have you done that? It takes seconds to make a quick phone call or drop your new contact an e-mail.

Enjoy it If you don’t then it will come across to others and you will be unable to project the positive image you want. If you’re not enjoying it, you’re at the wrong event for you anyway, so start again and look around the market to find out what’s right for you.

Follow these simple rules, and I promise you that not only will you grow your business, but you will potentially improve your social life too. As we say at Downtown ‘Work hard, play hard’.

Attend the right things One of the most precious commodities we have in business is time. So, make sure that every event you attend is relevant to you and your business. There is a huge networking industry out there, so there is no shortage of choice. However, choose quality over quantity and select networking groups that include members that you have a genuine chance of doing business with.

Be confident No-one likes going to a new place on their own, and the temptation is to go to a networking event with a group of friends. No harm in this, as it should make you feel more comfortable in a different environment. However, the danger is that you spend all your time in the company of those you have gone to the event with rather than ‘working the room’. If you can, attend an event or two on your own, or alternatively, make a conscious effort that for at least half an hour you are going to leave your herd and circulate. It is also easier for people to approach you if you are not in a ‘group huddle’ with colleagues.

Research people If you can, find out who else will be attending the event and do some research on their business so that you can engage with them more effectively. This will also give you an idea of who you should be targeting at the event. Don’t hesitate to ask the event organisers to point out people you want to talk to, or even to help facilitate the introduction. That is what they are there for. If the event organisers are unable to do this, my advice is don’t bother to attend!

Look the part Dress to impress. That doesn’t mean wearing Armani or Prada, or even necessarily wearing a business suit, but Bermuda shorts and sandals won’t cut it either. Remember, first impressions do count, so present yourself in an appropriate and professional manner.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2322 \

St. Paul’s Square development is situated in Liverpool’s commercial district and is aimed towards the cities young professionals. The recently opened show apartment showcases functional and stylish city centre living and makes the most of the space available.

The internal spaces are consistently geometric in shape with linear balconies adding to the sharp, masculine feel of the rooms. The ultimate key to designing the interior furniture & finishes was to enhance the contemporary spaces with a minimalist approach to furniture whilst adding a feeling of comfort & warmth with the choice of dressing & accessorising.

The look & style of the furniture chosen is clean lined, simple & most importantly, comfortable with some design classics added to keep an overall modern feel. Keeping the decor neutral in palette creates a sophisticated, timeless backdrop to the furniture & accessories. By adding an interesting wallcovering in a more personal space only, such as the Master Bedroom, creates a welcomed feature without overpowering the rest of the spaces.

A top tip for designing a bachelor pad is to focus on the open plan living space and consider how functional the central pieces of furniture are, such as the sofa, tv unit, armchair & coffee table. These are likely to be the most used items in conjunction with the coolest gadgets and are worth investing the most time, energy and money in to getting them right. If money is no object then adding some oversized designer pieces will become the central focus of the space & decor. Minimal, spacious, modern & comfortable are the key words for designing the ultimate bachelor pad.

St Paul’s Square apartments www.theperfectsquare.co.uk.Interior Design: Fran Guinan at Design that Room

THEULTIMATEBACHELOR

PAD

by Frank McKenna

NETWORKINGTHE ESSENTIAL TOOL

Here I have attempted to offer a guide to how you can maximise the opportunities and value of networking, and ensure that is time spent cultivating business, rather than a waste of your valuable time.

Remember why you’re there Complimentary food and drink may be appetising, but focus on business. Remember names, collect and give out business cards. ‘Of course’, I hear you cry, but I wish I had a pound for every time I have met someone at a networking event who wasn’t carrying a business card. Talk briefly but effectively and don’t bore people. The latest gadget or initiative that has just made your firm 15% more productive may be fascinating to you, but the minutiae will have others yawning and looking for the next vol-au-vent!

You scratch my back Don’t hesitate to introduce your contacts to others where you feel it is relevant. It may not bring any immediate advantage, but in my experience people are very appreciative for good introductions, and will always do their best to return the favour down the line.

Following up Always follow up the contacts you make, the business cards you have collected and people you have met and do it quickly, while it’s fresh in your mind and theirs. It is pointless collecting a dozen business cards and then simply filing them away. How many times have you done that? It takes seconds to make a quick phone call or drop your new contact an e-mail.

Enjoy it If you don’t then it will come across to others and you will be unable to project the positive image you want. If you’re not enjoying it, you’re at the wrong event for you anyway, so start again and look around the market to find out what’s right for you.

Follow these simple rules, and I promise you that not only will you grow your business, but you will potentially improve your social life too. As we say at Downtown ‘Work hard, play hard’.

Attend the right things One of the most precious commodities we have in business is time. So, make sure that every event you attend is relevant to you and your business. There is a huge networking industry out there, so there is no shortage of choice. However, choose quality over quantity and select networking groups that include members that you have a genuine chance of doing business with.

Be confident No-one likes going to a new place on their own, and the temptation is to go to a networking event with a group of friends. No harm in this, as it should make you feel more comfortable in a different environment. However, the danger is that you spend all your time in the company of those you have gone to the event with rather than ‘working the room’. If you can, attend an event or two on your own, or alternatively, make a conscious effort that for at least half an hour you are going to leave your herd and circulate. It is also easier for people to approach you if you are not in a ‘group huddle’ with colleagues.

Research people If you can, find out who else will be attending the event and do some research on their business so that you can engage with them more effectively. This will also give you an idea of who you should be targeting at the event. Don’t hesitate to ask the event organisers to point out people you want to talk to, or even to help facilitate the introduction. That is what they are there for. If the event organisers are unable to do this, my advice is don’t bother to attend!

Look the part Dress to impress. That doesn’t mean wearing Armani or Prada, or even necessarily wearing a business suit, but Bermuda shorts and sandals won’t cut it either. Remember, first impressions do count, so present yourself in an appropriate and professional manner.

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2524 \

If Liverpudlian comedian John Bishop seems relaxed onstage that is because he is. Storytelling comes as naturally as taking breath to this handsome, former semi-professional footballer with the biggest smile in stand-up. “I just want to recreate the feeling of talking to my mates in the pub. I know it sounds odd doing it in front of 16,000 people, but I can.”

Bishop, born on 30th November 1966, has plenty to smile about at the moment. He is in such demand that he only finished his last tour at the start of the summer and after a month off was already warming up for his new tour.

“I’ve called this the Sunshine Tour, because someone said to me it’s been a big year for me, it’s my time in the sunshine. I thought that was a lovely phrase.” Yet only a handful of years ago Bishop was doing a similar act, chatting about his family and the trouble with travelling on budget airlines where the tea costs more than the flight, and playing to tiny audiences. At one gig there were only five people. He suggested giving them all a refund, until the promoter said only two of them had paid.

Things took off, however, after his last show, Elvis Has Left The Building, which was shortlisted for the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2009. In this hilarious autobiographical set Bishop reflected on being the same age as the King of Rock and Roll was when he died and worried that his life was insignificant by comparison. He extracted great humour out of his mid-life crisis – making the forthcoming live DVD essential viewing for men of a similar age – as he worried about fighting the flab and still not being able to fix a car.

Bishop was being unfair on himself for comic effect when he joked that he had not achieved much. For a working class son of a docker he did well, becoming sales director for a leading pharmaceutical company. But he chucked it in to have a crack at comedy. In 2000 he was separated from his wife Melanie and found himself in the Frog

and Bucket club in Manchester on a talent night. He spontaneously decided to do a few minutes and left to rapturous applause after half an hour. “All I was doing was talking about my divorce,” he recalls. At a later gig Melanie was in the audience and she was clearly impressed because they got back together.

Chatting in his dressing room following a winning appearance on ITV1’s Loose Women, Bishop is changing shirts and reveals an elaborate swirly tattoo running around his right bicep. “I was at a pharmaceutical conference in Dallas and bored out of my head. I’d split up from my missus and went downtown and had my kids’ initials done, JLD, for Joseph, Luke and Daniel. Then I got back with my wife so I had her initials added during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – after I’d waited a few years to see if the marriage would work!”

He is returning to Edinburgh in August, this time as a star. “I want to go, partly to get my money back after losing a fortune every year, and partly because I spent so many nights in small box-sized rooms I want to enjoy myself in a proper theatre and also see some other shows. That’s the plan anyway.”

Things do not always go to plan with Bishop. When he performed in front of a sell-out 16,000 crowd at London’s O2 Arena earlier this year at the C4 Comedy Gala, he only decided what he would talk about onstage a few minutes before going on. “When I found out I was being introduced by James Corden I went on and talked about how I went to the Brits party with him and Freddie Flintoff and met Robbie Williams. And then in the morning our picture was in the papers and one of them had the caption, ‘James Corden with Bez from The Happy Mondays’”

Bishop is not likely to be mistaken for Bez any longer. He is now a familiar television face, having been a regular panellist on Sky’s sports quiz, A League of Their Own. But, it turns out, Bishop is not a big fan of panel games. “I like A League...but a lot of them are overcooked. You have to spend four hours filming a thirty-minute programme. That seems mental to me. I’d like to see a live panel show on television.”

JOHN BISHOPSyndicated Interview by Bruce Dessau

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2524 \

If Liverpudlian comedian John Bishop seems relaxed onstage that is because he is. Storytelling comes as naturally as taking breath to this handsome, former semi-professional footballer with the biggest smile in stand-up. “I just want to recreate the feeling of talking to my mates in the pub. I know it sounds odd doing it in front of 16,000 people, but I can.”

Bishop, born on 30th November 1966, has plenty to smile about at the moment. He is in such demand that he only finished his last tour at the start of the summer and after a month off was already warming up for his new tour.

“I’ve called this the Sunshine Tour, because someone said to me it’s been a big year for me, it’s my time in the sunshine. I thought that was a lovely phrase.” Yet only a handful of years ago Bishop was doing a similar act, chatting about his family and the trouble with travelling on budget airlines where the tea costs more than the flight, and playing to tiny audiences. At one gig there were only five people. He suggested giving them all a refund, until the promoter said only two of them had paid.

Things took off, however, after his last show, Elvis Has Left The Building, which was shortlisted for the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2009. In this hilarious autobiographical set Bishop reflected on being the same age as the King of Rock and Roll was when he died and worried that his life was insignificant by comparison. He extracted great humour out of his mid-life crisis – making the forthcoming live DVD essential viewing for men of a similar age – as he worried about fighting the flab and still not being able to fix a car.

Bishop was being unfair on himself for comic effect when he joked that he had not achieved much. For a working class son of a docker he did well, becoming sales director for a leading pharmaceutical company. But he chucked it in to have a crack at comedy. In 2000 he was separated from his wife Melanie and found himself in the Frog

and Bucket club in Manchester on a talent night. He spontaneously decided to do a few minutes and left to rapturous applause after half an hour. “All I was doing was talking about my divorce,” he recalls. At a later gig Melanie was in the audience and she was clearly impressed because they got back together.

Chatting in his dressing room following a winning appearance on ITV1’s Loose Women, Bishop is changing shirts and reveals an elaborate swirly tattoo running around his right bicep. “I was at a pharmaceutical conference in Dallas and bored out of my head. I’d split up from my missus and went downtown and had my kids’ initials done, JLD, for Joseph, Luke and Daniel. Then I got back with my wife so I had her initials added during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – after I’d waited a few years to see if the marriage would work!”

He is returning to Edinburgh in August, this time as a star. “I want to go, partly to get my money back after losing a fortune every year, and partly because I spent so many nights in small box-sized rooms I want to enjoy myself in a proper theatre and also see some other shows. That’s the plan anyway.”

Things do not always go to plan with Bishop. When he performed in front of a sell-out 16,000 crowd at London’s O2 Arena earlier this year at the C4 Comedy Gala, he only decided what he would talk about onstage a few minutes before going on. “When I found out I was being introduced by James Corden I went on and talked about how I went to the Brits party with him and Freddie Flintoff and met Robbie Williams. And then in the morning our picture was in the papers and one of them had the caption, ‘James Corden with Bez from The Happy Mondays’”

Bishop is not likely to be mistaken for Bez any longer. He is now a familiar television face, having been a regular panellist on Sky’s sports quiz, A League of Their Own. But, it turns out, Bishop is not a big fan of panel games. “I like A League...but a lot of them are overcooked. You have to spend four hours filming a thirty-minute programme. That seems mental to me. I’d like to see a live panel show on television.”

JOHN BISHOPSyndicated Interview by Bruce Dessau

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2726 \

Building up a loyal live following comes first. The other problem about appearing on television is that it eats up material. “I won’t do routines at gigs that I’ve done on television. I’m essentially a storyteller not a joketeller, so I have to keep coming up with new stories. To me comedy is like being a magician, once they know the rabbit is coming out of the hat they won’t care. I want people to keep coming to see me and not think there is no point because I’ve already said it all on telly.”

ortunately he has plenty of old material from his pre-fame days to update. He is also constantly inspired by his family. His Elvis show boasts a classic routine that every father of teenage sons

will recognise – the moment when they realise their son could beat them in a fight. Bishop realised this when he had a heated argument with his oldest son who he saw wearing his trainers. Bishop brilliantly found the funny side, reflecting on the thought of being thumped by someone who was wearing his own footwear.

Being more mature than a lot of comedians Bishop has an interesting past to draw on. After studying politics at Manchester Polytechnic he cycled around the world, was a midfielder for Hyde United and did some soccer coaching in America, but returned because he had problems with women. “They couldn’t understand my accent. They thought I was Hungarian.” He puts his treacle thick brogue down to the fact that when he was ten his family moved to Runcorn, where kids tried to “out-Scouse” each other to remind people where they came from. Eventually he “blagged” his way into the pharmaceutical business pretending he had the right A levels and ended up with a company car and all the trappings, but he was unhappy. That talent night in 2000 changed everything.

Comedy for Bishop is a dream come true, but it also helped him to fulfill another ambition. In 2009 he pulled on the famous red shirt and appeared alongside his Anfield heroes at a Hillsborough benefit. He even made a few decent passes. So would he swap his comedy success for a professional football career? It is the only time during the interview that he has to pause before answering. “I’d swap

all the telly, but there are very few things I would swap for being onstage. I love the feedback from an audience and I love the feeling of being a one-man gunslinger. If I could have been Steven Gerrard that’s different but to be in the Third Division maybe not.”

As a successful salesman does he see any similarities between selling medicine and selling the best medicine of all, laughter? “Being a good communicator helps in both areas. There’s an element of treating an audience as if they are individuals. I’m absolutely bowled over by the people I meet who have made an effort to come. People who have done a four-hour round trip. I’ve got relatives who wouldn’t come to our house for tea if it took four hours. But I think the only real transferable skill is my work ethic. And that comes from being skint as a kid. I made my first £100 when I was 13 selling teddy bears door to door.”

While touring is his priority, Bishop has also dipped his toes into the acting world. He played a parent in C4 drama Skins and flew out to Jordan last year to appear in the forthcoming Ken Loach film, Route Irish, which explores the Iraq conflict. “I’m one of the three main people, I’m not trained as an actor, but as long as the part is for someone who looks and sounds like me I’ll give it a go.”

e is glad that he made it in his forties rather than his twenties. Having a family keeps him grounded and providing for them is a great motivator. “I’d like to see more of them, but

doing these big tours means that when my son wanted to see Lady Gaga I was able to contact the venue and because I’d played there they gave me some tickets.” He lets out that laid-back Liverpudlian laugh. “I think that meant more to my son than having his dad at home!”

John Bishop plays the McEwan Hall, Edinburgh from the 4th - 30th August. His UK tour starts on 10 October. See www.johnbishoponline.com for details. His debut live DVD, John Bishop Live, is released on 15 November. Route Irish is released this autumn.

The 23 Foundation aims to give local kids in Merseyside a chance to achieve their dreams through local charities, clubs and community initiatives by providing the means to make a difference.” That is whether it be helping local kids recover from illness or helping to provide a framework for achieving their goals! The Merseyside community- of which Jamie Carragher himself is very much a part of- can help develop more confident, well rounded individuals. In giving children a reason to recover from illness or the means to express their talents, we can show them there are many ways to succeed on a personal and career level by being part of a team.

All proceeds go to our charity.For more information regarding any of our signed items, please contact Mike Lepic at mike@jamiecarragher.org

• Liverpool FC Home shirt

• Liverpool FC Home shirt with 23 Carragher

• Liverpool FC Away shirt

• Jamie Carragher autobiography ‘Carra’

• Match worn shirts

• Match worn boots

• Rare and unique canvas paintings

• Digital photographs

• One night in Istanbul DVD

• Reds and Blues DVD

RAISING FUNDS FORTHE 23 FOUNDATION

At the 23 Foundation we pride ourselves in providing authentic, signed memorabilia which is always accompanied with our official certificate of authenticity. We offer 23 different digital photographs which can be personalized and signed by Jamie and framed. Please visit the gallery at our official web-site: www.jamiecarragher.org

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2726 \

Building up a loyal live following comes first. The other problem about appearing on television is that it eats up material. “I won’t do routines at gigs that I’ve done on television. I’m essentially a storyteller not a joketeller, so I have to keep coming up with new stories. To me comedy is like being a magician, once they know the rabbit is coming out of the hat they won’t care. I want people to keep coming to see me and not think there is no point because I’ve already said it all on telly.”

ortunately he has plenty of old material from his pre-fame days to update. He is also constantly inspired by his family. His Elvis show boasts a classic routine that every father of teenage sons

will recognise – the moment when they realise their son could beat them in a fight. Bishop realised this when he had a heated argument with his oldest son who he saw wearing his trainers. Bishop brilliantly found the funny side, reflecting on the thought of being thumped by someone who was wearing his own footwear.

Being more mature than a lot of comedians Bishop has an interesting past to draw on. After studying politics at Manchester Polytechnic he cycled around the world, was a midfielder for Hyde United and did some soccer coaching in America, but returned because he had problems with women. “They couldn’t understand my accent. They thought I was Hungarian.” He puts his treacle thick brogue down to the fact that when he was ten his family moved to Runcorn, where kids tried to “out-Scouse” each other to remind people where they came from. Eventually he “blagged” his way into the pharmaceutical business pretending he had the right A levels and ended up with a company car and all the trappings, but he was unhappy. That talent night in 2000 changed everything.

Comedy for Bishop is a dream come true, but it also helped him to fulfill another ambition. In 2009 he pulled on the famous red shirt and appeared alongside his Anfield heroes at a Hillsborough benefit. He even made a few decent passes. So would he swap his comedy success for a professional football career? It is the only time during the interview that he has to pause before answering. “I’d swap

all the telly, but there are very few things I would swap for being onstage. I love the feedback from an audience and I love the feeling of being a one-man gunslinger. If I could have been Steven Gerrard that’s different but to be in the Third Division maybe not.”

As a successful salesman does he see any similarities between selling medicine and selling the best medicine of all, laughter? “Being a good communicator helps in both areas. There’s an element of treating an audience as if they are individuals. I’m absolutely bowled over by the people I meet who have made an effort to come. People who have done a four-hour round trip. I’ve got relatives who wouldn’t come to our house for tea if it took four hours. But I think the only real transferable skill is my work ethic. And that comes from being skint as a kid. I made my first £100 when I was 13 selling teddy bears door to door.”

While touring is his priority, Bishop has also dipped his toes into the acting world. He played a parent in C4 drama Skins and flew out to Jordan last year to appear in the forthcoming Ken Loach film, Route Irish, which explores the Iraq conflict. “I’m one of the three main people, I’m not trained as an actor, but as long as the part is for someone who looks and sounds like me I’ll give it a go.”

e is glad that he made it in his forties rather than his twenties. Having a family keeps him grounded and providing for them is a great motivator. “I’d like to see more of them, but

doing these big tours means that when my son wanted to see Lady Gaga I was able to contact the venue and because I’d played there they gave me some tickets.” He lets out that laid-back Liverpudlian laugh. “I think that meant more to my son than having his dad at home!”

John Bishop plays the McEwan Hall, Edinburgh from the 4th - 30th August. His UK tour starts on 10 October. See www.johnbishoponline.com for details. His debut live DVD, John Bishop Live, is released on 15 November. Route Irish is released this autumn.

The 23 Foundation aims to give local kids in Merseyside a chance to achieve their dreams through local charities, clubs and community initiatives by providing the means to make a difference.” That is whether it be helping local kids recover from illness or helping to provide a framework for achieving their goals! The Merseyside community- of which Jamie Carragher himself is very much a part of- can help develop more confident, well rounded individuals. In giving children a reason to recover from illness or the means to express their talents, we can show them there are many ways to succeed on a personal and career level by being part of a team.

All proceeds go to our charity.For more information regarding any of our signed items, please contact Mike Lepic at mike@jamiecarragher.org

• Liverpool FC Home shirt

• Liverpool FC Home shirt with 23 Carragher

• Liverpool FC Away shirt

• Jamie Carragher autobiography ‘Carra’

• Match worn shirts

• Match worn boots

• Rare and unique canvas paintings

• Digital photographs

• One night in Istanbul DVD

• Reds and Blues DVD

RAISING FUNDS FORTHE 23 FOUNDATION

At the 23 Foundation we pride ourselves in providing authentic, signed memorabilia which is always accompanied with our official certificate of authenticity. We offer 23 different digital photographs which can be personalized and signed by Jamie and framed. Please visit the gallery at our official web-site: www.jamiecarragher.org

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2928 \

Have you heard the one about the businessman who asks a sommelier for a bottle of 1982 Pétrus (a great vintage from a top Pomerol estate which can retail for up to £3, 000) and a coke?

After receiving his drinks, the businessman promptly pours a slug of the coke into his glass of Pétrus, much to the bemusement and horror of his dining companion. He then ostentatiously displays the bottle in full view of all the other diners in the restaurant. On being questioned about his actions, the businessman replies, with a shrug, “I just don’t like the taste of red wine”.

Wine snobbery! That’s how bad it can be. Where buying values are distorted and based on pretension, not appreciation. Where cash counts, and very limited knowledge reigns supreme over diffidence. The story above was loosely taken from an account in Malcolm Gluck’s book ‘Wine Matters’. But how is it that wine can create such snobbery? After all, growing grapes is just farming. Making wine is simply the fermentation of grape juice. Why can alcoholic grape juice take on cult status; become the elixir of the rich and command such unbelievable sums of money?

Wine writers, critics, Parker. They would have us believe that wine is a tricky subject only to be tackled by the elite. Rot. Robert Parker, former US lawyer turned number one wine critic, created the points system for judging wines. He gives all the wines that he tastes a score out of 100. On the face of it, ‘wine by numbers’ is a handy benchmarking tool. It allows comparisons. However, it has also spawned

a generation of winemakers tripping over themselves to make wines worthy of the almost elusive 100, which would guarantee them a very comfortable retirement. It has also played into the hands of the wine snob. It makes buying wines easy. Get on the phone and order a few cases of everything produced last year with a rating of 96 or above. Simple. Don’t care whether it is to one’s taste. Haven’t got any, but Parker says it’s good. Wine taste is subjective, though, and personal. But one has to experiment to find out what one likes. Wine snobs don’t experiment!

The French must have created this mystique about wine. And not only have they got it cracked at the production end, what about when the wine reaches the restaurant? What nationality is the sommelier? Who is it that responds with a snarl to any suggestion of a cheaper wine and a Gallic shrug if one musters the courage to complain of cork taint? Comme ci Comme ça! Little wonder we assume the role of the ignorant philistine. Snobbery does that to its victims.

Buying values are distorted and based on pretension,not appreciationStill, there’s been a lot to knock the French off their perch. The 1976 ‘Judgement of Paris’ is one painful period in history which went along way to stop snobbery about French wines. This episode brought together eleven distinguished wine taster (nine of whom were French) to blind taste the best French Burgundies and red Bordeaux

WHYNOTWINE?

wines against up-and coming Californian Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. It was set up by Steven Spurrier (then a wine merchant in Paris) who wanted to draw attention to California as a new and interesting wine-growing region. Nobody could have predicted the outcome. The tasters unanimously favoured the Californian wines above the French, and propelled this new world region and some of the wineries into stardom.

Much has been done to remove snobbery elsewhere too. Take the supermarkets, for example. Everyone damns them. They are responsible for everything from screwing the farmers, monopolising high streets and ruining town planning, adding to pollution with all that packaging and extra food miles, to bullying wine producers. That may be true but what they have done, which is positive for the wine customer, is make wine more accessible.

More information is available, labelling is customer-friendly and most people in the country can afford to drink wine. Wine doesn’t have to be a mystery anymore. Knowledge is power, but the knowledge is being democratised through the media and other channels too. A little bit of know-how can go a long way. Recognising a few grape varieties, for example, makes choosing a bottle of wine a more pleasurable act than a frenzied random clutch at the prettiest label mid shelf offering. Dissemination of information equals death to the wine snob.

Corks are on their way out. Discuss. Endless articles have been written on the merits of various closures, so no need to

do that here. The point is aesthetics. How can a wine snob open a bottle of wine that does not require a corkscrew? Surely the very presence of a screw cap damns a bottle of wine to the (now mythical) £3.99 price point. At a recent dinner in Manchester Oz Clarke held up a Stelvin or Screw top and described it as “one of the best things to happen to the wine trade in decades” So how is it that there is still mystery and romance which nourishes the wine snob, despite all this effort to make wine comprehensible to the masses?

Some wines are iconic, and many wineries strive to create new onesSome wines are iconic, and many wineries strive to create new ones, craving that gravy train of eager punters willing to part with obscene amounts of cash. Wine is a legitimate investment vehicle and a collector’s prized possession in much the same way as are original paintings, classic cars and antiques. The most expensive treasures rarely see daylight. Too valuable to be handled. But wine also brings immense pleasure of a different kind to those who appreciate its taste. Whether it is a recognised name or the modest result of a family’s lifetime achievement somewhere in the world, it can be magical.

The wine snob looks set to stay. Perhaps, after all, there is more to wine than mere farming and the fermentation of grape juice. To learn more and or details of our forthcoming wine courses go to www.whynotwine.biz

by Charlie Womersley

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 2928 \

Have you heard the one about the businessman who asks a sommelier for a bottle of 1982 Pétrus (a great vintage from a top Pomerol estate which can retail for up to £3, 000) and a coke?

After receiving his drinks, the businessman promptly pours a slug of the coke into his glass of Pétrus, much to the bemusement and horror of his dining companion. He then ostentatiously displays the bottle in full view of all the other diners in the restaurant. On being questioned about his actions, the businessman replies, with a shrug, “I just don’t like the taste of red wine”.

Wine snobbery! That’s how bad it can be. Where buying values are distorted and based on pretension, not appreciation. Where cash counts, and very limited knowledge reigns supreme over diffidence. The story above was loosely taken from an account in Malcolm Gluck’s book ‘Wine Matters’. But how is it that wine can create such snobbery? After all, growing grapes is just farming. Making wine is simply the fermentation of grape juice. Why can alcoholic grape juice take on cult status; become the elixir of the rich and command such unbelievable sums of money?

Wine writers, critics, Parker. They would have us believe that wine is a tricky subject only to be tackled by the elite. Rot. Robert Parker, former US lawyer turned number one wine critic, created the points system for judging wines. He gives all the wines that he tastes a score out of 100. On the face of it, ‘wine by numbers’ is a handy benchmarking tool. It allows comparisons. However, it has also spawned

a generation of winemakers tripping over themselves to make wines worthy of the almost elusive 100, which would guarantee them a very comfortable retirement. It has also played into the hands of the wine snob. It makes buying wines easy. Get on the phone and order a few cases of everything produced last year with a rating of 96 or above. Simple. Don’t care whether it is to one’s taste. Haven’t got any, but Parker says it’s good. Wine taste is subjective, though, and personal. But one has to experiment to find out what one likes. Wine snobs don’t experiment!

The French must have created this mystique about wine. And not only have they got it cracked at the production end, what about when the wine reaches the restaurant? What nationality is the sommelier? Who is it that responds with a snarl to any suggestion of a cheaper wine and a Gallic shrug if one musters the courage to complain of cork taint? Comme ci Comme ça! Little wonder we assume the role of the ignorant philistine. Snobbery does that to its victims.

Buying values are distorted and based on pretension,not appreciationStill, there’s been a lot to knock the French off their perch. The 1976 ‘Judgement of Paris’ is one painful period in history which went along way to stop snobbery about French wines. This episode brought together eleven distinguished wine taster (nine of whom were French) to blind taste the best French Burgundies and red Bordeaux

WHYNOTWINE?

wines against up-and coming Californian Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. It was set up by Steven Spurrier (then a wine merchant in Paris) who wanted to draw attention to California as a new and interesting wine-growing region. Nobody could have predicted the outcome. The tasters unanimously favoured the Californian wines above the French, and propelled this new world region and some of the wineries into stardom.

Much has been done to remove snobbery elsewhere too. Take the supermarkets, for example. Everyone damns them. They are responsible for everything from screwing the farmers, monopolising high streets and ruining town planning, adding to pollution with all that packaging and extra food miles, to bullying wine producers. That may be true but what they have done, which is positive for the wine customer, is make wine more accessible.

More information is available, labelling is customer-friendly and most people in the country can afford to drink wine. Wine doesn’t have to be a mystery anymore. Knowledge is power, but the knowledge is being democratised through the media and other channels too. A little bit of know-how can go a long way. Recognising a few grape varieties, for example, makes choosing a bottle of wine a more pleasurable act than a frenzied random clutch at the prettiest label mid shelf offering. Dissemination of information equals death to the wine snob.

Corks are on their way out. Discuss. Endless articles have been written on the merits of various closures, so no need to

do that here. The point is aesthetics. How can a wine snob open a bottle of wine that does not require a corkscrew? Surely the very presence of a screw cap damns a bottle of wine to the (now mythical) £3.99 price point. At a recent dinner in Manchester Oz Clarke held up a Stelvin or Screw top and described it as “one of the best things to happen to the wine trade in decades” So how is it that there is still mystery and romance which nourishes the wine snob, despite all this effort to make wine comprehensible to the masses?

Some wines are iconic, and many wineries strive to create new onesSome wines are iconic, and many wineries strive to create new ones, craving that gravy train of eager punters willing to part with obscene amounts of cash. Wine is a legitimate investment vehicle and a collector’s prized possession in much the same way as are original paintings, classic cars and antiques. The most expensive treasures rarely see daylight. Too valuable to be handled. But wine also brings immense pleasure of a different kind to those who appreciate its taste. Whether it is a recognised name or the modest result of a family’s lifetime achievement somewhere in the world, it can be magical.

The wine snob looks set to stay. Perhaps, after all, there is more to wine than mere farming and the fermentation of grape juice. To learn more and or details of our forthcoming wine courses go to www.whynotwine.biz

by Charlie Womersley

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 3130 \

Abandon Normal Devices at FACT29 September - 27 November

Showing for the first time in the UK, Kurt Hentschlager’s ZEE is an abstract luminous landscape where visitors are taken on their own mind-altering sensory journey in Gallery 1.

Gallery 2 houses the work of two new media artists, Ahmed Basiony and Zhang Qing who have challenged the system in their respective countries, Egypt and China.

These exhibitions are part of Abandon Normal Devices 2011.

EXHIBITIONSituated on FACT’s first floor, the FACT Bar serves a wide range of draught and bottled beers, wines and spirits, including novelty Vodkas and Absinthe. Along with fortnightly film quizzes, the Bar hosts monthly poetry evenings, and offers a selection of board games for your entertainment. Please note

that the Centre is fully licensed throughout the building, and you can enjoy your drinks in the cinemas.

ranklins at FACT is your neighbourhood New York inspired deli in the heart of FACT. We believe in good honest cooking and are committed to using local suppliers who provide us with only the freshest ingredients. Our varied menu includes

speciality sandwiches, daily hot dishes and our deli special fillings, along with a great breakfast offer to kick start your day. Healthy options are available, including our Low GI range. Franklins look forward to catering for you at FACT, providing an exciting menu and great service that will make you smile.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

A NIGHT AT

FACT

MAN ABOUT TOWN / Oct-Nov 2011 www.mat-mag.co.uk / 3130 \

Abandon Normal Devices at FACT29 September - 27 November

Showing for the first time in the UK, Kurt Hentschlager’s ZEE is an abstract luminous landscape where visitors are taken on their own mind-altering sensory journey in Gallery 1.

Gallery 2 houses the work of two new media artists, Ahmed Basiony and Zhang Qing who have challenged the system in their respective countries, Egypt and China.

These exhibitions are part of Abandon Normal Devices 2011.

EXHIBITIONSituated on FACT’s first floor, the FACT Bar serves a wide range of draught and bottled beers, wines and spirits, including novelty Vodkas and Absinthe. Along with fortnightly film quizzes, the Bar hosts monthly poetry evenings, and offers a selection of board games for your entertainment. Please note

that the Centre is fully licensed throughout the building, and you can enjoy your drinks in the cinemas.

ranklins at FACT is your neighbourhood New York inspired deli in the heart of FACT. We believe in good honest cooking and are committed to using local suppliers who provide us with only the freshest ingredients. Our varied menu includes

speciality sandwiches, daily hot dishes and our deli special fillings, along with a great breakfast offer to kick start your day. Healthy options are available, including our Low GI range. Franklins look forward to catering for you at FACT, providing an exciting menu and great service that will make you smile.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

A NIGHT AT

FACT

THEBOYSCLUBTUESDAY 25TH OCTOBER AT PALM SUGAR BAR, LIVERPOOL ONE

TICKETS £20

Drinks reception 7pm

Canapés and sensational auction

All funds raised to benefit Alder Hey Imagine Appeal

11