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McCanns' fear over second girl

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:49:30 GMT

GERRY and Kate McCann told of their “extreme concern” last night after a Spanish girl vanished in circumstances similar to their daughter Maddie.

Mari Luz Cortes, five, disappeared on Sunday after going out to buy crisps at a local shop.

Search ... McCanns in Huelva

Search ... McCanns in Huelva

Writing on his blog, Gerry McCann said: "Kate and I were dismayed to learn today that a 5-year-old girl has been missing from Huelva, in Southern Spain since Sunday evening.

"As many of you know, Heulva is approximately a 2 hour drive from Praia da Luz and we went there in early August to publicise Madeleine’s disappearance.

"Hearing of the probable abduction of Mari Luz Cortesa has brought many awful emotions flooding back. We hope and pray that Mari is quickly found and returned safely to her family."

She lives in Huelva, Spain – just a 90-minute drive from Portugal’s Praia da Luz where Maddie went missing.

Juan ... lost girl

Juan ... lost girl

Cops in both countries are to discuss similarities between the cases.

Gerry and Kate, of Rothley, Leics, visited Huelva last August during the hunt for Maddie.

No trace ... Maddie

No trace ... Maddie

The city is 120 miles from where their daughter vanished on May 3. Investigators from detective agency Metodo 3, hired by the couple, are probing possible links in the cases. Mari’s parents have followed the example of the McCanns by launching a huge media campaign to trace their little girl.

Thousands of leaflets have been handed out and TV appeals issued.

Family members have gone to Portugal, fearing she was taken there by a paedophile network. Yesterday tearful dad Juan Jose Cortes Ramirez, 34, admitted his family feared the worst. Asked about the possible link with the Maddie case, he said: “It’s not something we want to contemplate right now.”

Cops are investigating reports Mari was seen on a bus with a gipsy woman.

Meanwhile Gerry and Kate – still suspects over Maddie – are “103 per cent” certain the case against them will remain secret for another three months, said their spokesman. Prosecutors have contacted legal intermediary Eurojust to arrange a reinterview of their Brit pals – dubbed the Tapas Seven.

Reports today also said the McCanns may run out of money to find Madeleine in the next four months.

Donations to the The Find Madeleine Fund are dwindling according to reports in Portugal.

And the couple may have to sell their story to the international press to top up the fund.

Directors of the fund are to set discuss how to bring more capital into the campaign, reports Jornal de Noticias.

Britney's shock cry for help

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:48:24 GMT

TROUBLED BRITNEY SPEARS wrote a suicide note saying: “Perhaps it would be better if I was dead,” The Sun can reveal.

Laughter ... Britney at LA church

Laughter ... Britney at LA church

Retna

The heart-rending letter laid bare the 26-year-old singer’s dark feelings of loneliness - and despair at being unable to live up to family and fans’ expectations.

A friend found it just before Britney’s meltdown earlier this month.

Doctors and friends of the tormented star believe she needs urgent help - because she is suffering fits of terror and is mentally ill.

The chart-topping singer has had mental health problems “for years,” sources close to her family revealed.

Her conditions, which include manic depression and possible multiple personality disorder, seem to be worsening.

And American TV doctor PHIL MCGRAW, who has seen her recently, said she is “in dire need of both medical and psychological intervention”.

He added: “I am very concerned for her.”

The medics and family sources spoke out as it was revealed 26-year-old Britney penned a suicide note telling of her loneliness and fear of not living up to the expectations of fans and relatives.
Wild ... she is taken to mental unit

Wild ... she is taken
to mental unit

Retna

Pals say the Toxic star is like a child, constantly needing care, approval and support from them.

And she is terrified of losing her children SEAN PRESTON, two, and JAYDEN JAMES, one, in her custody battle with her estranged husband KEVIN FEDERLINE.

It is understood the case’s judge believes her erratic behaviour is being caused by psychological problems rather than an addiction to prescription drugs.

And she stands little chance of winning unless she accepts treatment for mental illness.

Another bizarre incident came to light yesterday when it was revealed Britney shocked assistants in a Los Angeles clothes shop by emerging from a changing room NAKED.
Noises

She spent 45 minutes in the room with her British lover, paparazzo ADNAN GHALIB.

An assistant said they made “weird” noises like they were having sex. And Britney swore at staff when she left.

One employee said: “She was slurring and spitting. Her face was covered with cold sores and acne, and her scalp was patchy.”

Britney’s suicide note was found in her bathroom just before her meltdown earlier this month, in which she was rushed to a psychiatric ward after refusing to hand her sons to Federline’s security guards.

It was discovered by a friend who thought it “a cry for help”.

A source close to the singer said: “The letter was very sad. Britney talked about her loneliness, how unfair life is and not being able to trust people.

“She wrote about how she will never be what people want her to be. She said, ‘Perhaps it would be better if I was dead’.”

The source said the friend, who has been trying to persuade Britney to seek medical help, confronted her with the note. But she laughed it off and said: “Everybody thinks about death.”

Britney missed a vital court hearing over her kids on Monday. The source said: “People think she doesn’t care but she loves them more than anything.

“The truth is she’s terrified of losing them and can’t face going to court. She doesn’t want to answer questions about her mental health and lifestyle.”

Britney’s manic depression is also known as bipolar disorder. The source said: “She also has something much more serious she doesn’t want to talk about.

“She may have multiple personality disorder. And she had post-natal depression after both births.”

The source added: “Sometimes she misses drugs she takes for her problems. Sometimes she takes too many. Combined with her drinking, it makes her difficult to control.”

John Lennon sister at Beatles show

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:45:27 GMT

JOHN LENNON’S sister will be among the guests of honour at the launch of a stunning new exhibition celebrating the life and music of The Beatles.

Julia Baird will arrive at Liverpool Central Library tonight for the official opening of the Another Hard Day’s Night exhibition, which tells the story of The Beatles triumphant return to Liverpool after taking the world by storm.

The exhibition chronicles the Fab Four’s homecoming on July 10, 1964, to a grand civic reception at the Town Hall and the northern premiere of their first feature film A Hard Day’s Night at the Odeon Cinema, London Road.

It includes correspondence between the Lord Mayor’s office and Beatles manager Brian Epstein, the first time the documents have been publicly displayed.

In addition, the exhibition includes the original guest list for the event, photographs, newspaper cuttings and memorabilia.

Guests will be treated to live music from the original line-up of 60s Liverpool band Fourmos’.

The launch which will be compered by DJ Spencer Leigh will takes place at 5.30pm in the Picton Reading Room, Liverpool Central Library. The exhibition will be open to the public from January 17 until February 17.

Hunt for an actor who can fill Bill Shankly’s boots

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:43:57 GMT

HE REGULARLY tops polls of the greatest football managers and is revered more than 26 years after his death.

It’s a daunting task to fill the shoes of Bill Shankly – but now the hunt is on to find someone who can do just that.

The makers of a new one-man play about the life and times of the legendary manager want nominations for a lookalike and soundalike to take on the demanding role.

Liverpool FC fan Andrew Sherlock penned the show, which will be 45 minutes each half: the first in black and white with half time oranges, the second half in colour, and possibly set in Anfield’s boot room.

It will have its world premiere at Liverpool Olympia on April 24, with possibly a second show before going on tour.

The theatrical event will recreate the golden age of 1960s and 1970s football and is being developed in collaboration with ITV Granada.

For Wavertree-based theatre director Andrew, 43, bringing Shankly’s story to life has been a labour of love.

But he says the success or failure of the production will depend on who will portray the iconic figure.

“It’s got to be exactly right, which means a frighteningly real recreation of the man himself so people in the audience will think, ‘that’s him!,” Andrew said.

“It’s a phenomenal job to ask of someone to hold the stage at this 1,200-seat venue for the gala performance.

“They will need to be rock solid and to have that self-belief of a messianic, iconic figure.

“We need more than an impersonator - it’s got to be an actor who can embody the spirit of Shankly with his passion for Liverpool, the city, and its people. He was the city’s first great urban regenerator.”

The “interactive multimedia documentary theatre” will feature digital recording technology and giant projection screens.

An Audience with Bill Shankly is one of 14 commissions for 2008 from the Liverpool Culture Company’s Liverpool strand of commissions, exclusively to ensure small to medium-sized Merseyside-based companies are involved in the year’s events. Do you look and sound like Bill Shankly or do you know someone who does? Is there an actor or personality you would like to see in the role?

Contact 0845 833 2404 or info@footballinglegends.com, or write to: Footballing Legends Ltd. Liverpool Science Park, 131 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5TF.

Macca to stage show of Linda's pictures

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:43:13 GMT

SIR Paul McCartney is to stage an exhibition of photographs by his late wife Linda.

The former Beatle has spent the past three years putting together the show, which will mark the 10th anniversary of her death.

It includes images of stars such as Jim Morrison and John Lennon, and intimate portraits of McCartney family life.

This is the first major exhibition of Linda’s photographs to be staged in the UK.

The couple’s photographer daughter Mary also helped to curate the exhibition, which will open at the James Hyman Gallery in London’s Savile Row on April 24.

Rhys Jones murder: Teens arrested over firearms offences

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:42:25 GMT

DETECTIVES hunting the killer of 11-year-old Rhys Jones have arrested two teenagers in connection with firearms offences.

The pair were among 18 people arrested in the weeks following last August’s murder in Croxteth Park.

A Merseyside police spokesman said: “Detectives investigating the murder of Rhys Jones in Croxteth on Wednesday August 22 have rearrested two males from Croxteth in connection with firearms offences.

“The two males, aged 18 and 16, were arrested this afternoon and have been taken to police stations on Merseyside where they will be questioned by detectives.”

Liverpool 5-0 Luton

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:38:35 GMT

Steven Gerrard's hat-trick sank Luton and lifted the spirits of embattled Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez.

Ryan Babel's powerful finish broke the deadlock in first-half injury time, with Gerrard heading home from close range after 51 minutes.

Sami Hyypia turned in Gerrard's corner six minutes later before the captain slid in his second from 14 yards.

Gerrard's third came via a swerving shot to seal an FA Cup fourth round tie with Swansea or Havant & Waterlooville.

Interview: Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez
Interview: Luton manager Kevin Blackwell

606: DEBATE
Fantastic result tonight, great atmosphere, great display and fantastic goals

Riggy

Both sides formed a guard of honour before kick-off as Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher celebrated his 500th appearance for the club.

The Kop also cheered Benitez after revelations that American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett had held secret talks with Jurgen Klinsmann to line him up as a potential successor to the Spaniard.

Luton fans were in good heart after administrator Brendan Guilfoyle revealed a deal has been agreed with a consortium, fronted by television presenter Nick Owen, to buy the club.

Liverpool, fielding a strong side including Fernando Torres, exerted total domination in the first 45 minutes.

But Luton, marshalled by former Anfield veteran Don Hutchison, defended heroically, putting their bodies on the line for a succession of brave blocks.

Peter Crouch should have done better than direct a fifth-minute header wide, and Babel curled a fine right-foot effort against an upright three minutes later.

Babel also had a shot deflected wide before he broke Luton's brave resistance in first-half injury time.

Gerrard's flick released Torres, and he set up the unmarked Babel for a drilled finish into the bottom corner past Dean Brill.

And Liverpool were home and dry after 51 minutes as Luton's lack of height at the back was ruthlessly exposed.

Jermaine Pennant's cross found Crouch at the far post and he knocked the ball into the path of the onrushing Gerrard, who headed beyond Brill.

Liverpool added a third six minutes later when Hyypia headed in Gerrard's near post corner, via a deflection from Matthew Spring.

Gerrard added his second after 64 minutes, steering home a precise finish from 14 yards after Torres' shot had been partially cleared into his path.

And a swerving long-range drive deceived Brill to complete Gerrard's hat-trick after 71 minutes, leaving him to depart to a standing ovation from Anfield.

#
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez on co-owners secret talks with Jurgen Klinsmann:
"We weren't really thinking about it because we know it's important to progress in the FA Cup.

"I was not thinking too much about this, I was thinking about the game. I'm really happy because we won 5-0 and progressed in the competition.

"It wasn't a bad week because we were training normally. We knew everyone was talking but we were trying to concentrate on the game against Luton. I know people must ask but I want to talk about the game."

#
Luton Town manager Kevin Blackwell:
"They were square pegs in round holes but they gave me everything they have got.

"There is no doubt they (Liverpool) have ability in abundance and have done exceptionally well for Rafa.

"It was an awesome team they put out. Clearly they have done a great job for the manager."

Liverpool: Itandje, Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Pennant, Alonso, Gerrard (Lucas 73), Babel, Crouch (Kuyt 65), Torres (Aurelio 73).
Subs Not Used: Martin, Kewell.

Booked: Hyypia.

Goals: Babel 45, Gerrard 52, Hyypia 57, Gerrard 64, 72.

Luton: Brill, Jackson, Hutchison, Keane, Goodall, Bell (McVeigh 73), Robinson (O'Leary 68), Spring, Currie, Andrew (Furlong 68), Talbot.
Subs Not Used: Parkin, Emanuel.

Att: 41,446

Ref: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).

BBC Sport Player Rater man of the match: Liverpool's Steven Gerrard 8.33 (on 90 minutes).

# Please note that you can still give the players marks out of 10 on BBC Sport's Player Rater after the match has finished.

Two held in Rhys murder inquiry

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:37:16 GMT

Detectives hunting the killer of Rhys Jones have arrested two teenagers for firearms offences.

The 11-year-old was shot dead as he walked home from football practice in Croxteth Park, Liverpool, in August.

The pair, an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old from Croxteth have been rearrested on firearms offences. They were first held by police in November.

Eighteen people have been held on suspicion of murder or conspiracy to murder but no-one has been charged.

Detectives are investigating a theory that the bullet was fired by a teenage gang member aiming for a rival.

Merseyside police said: "Detectives investigating the murder of Rhys Jones in Croxteth on Wednesday 22 August have rearrested two males from Croxteth in connection with firearms offences.

"The two males were arrested and have been taken to police stations on Merseyside where they will be questioned.

New Beatles exhibition for city

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:36:36 GMT

A new Beatles exhibition telling the story of the Fab Four's triumphant return to Liverpool is to be opened.

Another Hard Day's Night is about the band's return to the city in 1964 after their worldwide success to attend the northern premier of their first film.

Thousands lined the streets to try to catch a glimpse of their heroes.

The exhibition in the central library shows letters between the mayor and Brian Epstein, plus newspaper cuttings, publicity photographs and memorabilia.

John Lennon's sister Julia Baird will be officially opening the exhibition.

'Bonafide superstars'

Liverpool City Council's executive member for libraries, Councillor Colin Eldridge said: "This is a fantastic exhibition, which tells one of the most amazing stories in the history of popular music.

"Another Hard Day's Night captures a hugely significant period in The Beatles' remarkable history, a time when four local lads returned to their home city as bonafide superstars.

"With tens of thousands of tourists now converging on our city to see the European Capital of Culture for themselves, this exhibition couldn't have come at a better time. It's a fantastic boost to our celebrations."

The exhibition lasts until 17 February in Liverpool central library.

Yanks have made us a laughing stock

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:59:43 GMT

LIVERPOOL legend Ian Rush last night accused co-owner Tom Hicks of undermining the great traditions of the club.

Rush believes Hicks’ remarkable admission he had spoken to Jurgen Klinsmann about taking over at Anfield is in danger of turning Rafa Benitez’s reign into a Newcastle-style circus.

The Kop hero, who scored a record 346 goals in 660 Liverpool appearances, was as shocked as most other Anfield fans at the American’s revelations yesterday — at the very time everyone at the club needed to be pulling in the same direction.

He said: “Now people are going to say the club is a laughing stock. In many ways, you can understand that because this is not the way Liverpool normally do things.

“The tradition of the club — and the very thing that has made them so hugely respected throughout the world — is to do everything in-house. Not out in the open like this.

“Look at Newcastle — we certainly don’t want to get like that. That’s just change for the sake of it. With Harry Redknapp turning them down, it’s just going to drag on and on. That doesn’t help anyone.

“Now we all know that in football these days there’s only one winner — the owners.

“But admitting that Klinsmann was approached is poor timing and puts a lot more pressure on Rafa.

“It’s not just upsetting for Rafa but for the players and the fans as well. Everything seemed to be dying down a bit but now it’s all been blown up again.”

Hicks claimed that approaching Klinsmann was an “insurance policy” in case Benitez was tempted away from the club by the likes of Real Madrid.

Most Liverpool fans will see that as a laughable smokescreen for the real reason — that Hicks and co-owner George Gillett wanted to sack Benitez. And still do.

And that their admission they wanted Klinsmann is another attempt to undermine Benitez and drive him out of the club.

Hilariously, they also claimed they met the German to “learn as much as we could about English and European football.”

Treatment

But Rush said: “With respect to Klinsmann, how can he know more about European football than Rafa?

“No one knows more than him. Look at his record with Valencia. Look at the way he’s taken Liverpool to two Champions League finals.

“As far as Europe is concerned, Benitez is the best.

“And as for English football, I think Rafa may know a bit more than Klinsmann!”

RUSH . . . criticism

RUSH . . . criticism

The Americans’ treatment of Benitez is in stark contrast to the softly-softly approach of the Glazer family over at Old Trafford.

Rush, 46, said: “I hate to say this but, perhaps, Liverpool should take a leaf out of United’s book. Everyone was moaning when the Glazers took over but United fans couldn’t be happier now.

“They don’t interfere, they stay in the background and they let the manager get on with it — and look at the results.

“That’s why Rafa must be allowed to try and turn things round.

“I don’t want to see him go — and nor do the fans, who will be furious with the weird timing of all this.

“He should be given until the end of the season and, if there is progress, fine. If there isn’t, then you have the summer to make changes. But not now.

“No, we’re not doing as well as we would want but you always have good and bad parts of the season.

“I can see both sides of the argument. Rafa’s rotation policy hasn’t helped but that’s what foreign managers tend to do, they pick their teams according to the opposition.

“Yes, we are 12 points behind United and Arsenal and we have drawn too many home games. So we have to start winning.

“The bottom line is we have to finish in the top four and do well in the FA Cup and Champions League.”

Typically, Hicks claims he and Gillett are now “right behind” Benitez.

But as Rush said: “What else could they say?

“In fact, they shouldn’t have said anything. Now many will look at Rafa as Dead Man Walking.

“Well, that’s part and parcel of football these days. When Claudio Ranieri can get sacked for finishing second in the league and getting to the Champions League semi-final, anything can happen.

Respect

“And it has. We’re only in January and eight Premier League managers have gone. Yes, expectations are high and owners want instant results but some of the sackings have been ridiculous.

“Sammy Lee didn’t get a chance, nor did Sam Allardyce. But Liverpool must not go down the same path.

“And they certainly must not make it all so public.

“That’s not the Liverpool way. That’s not the Liver- pool style that brought them respect and so many trophies.”

The writing is on the wall, Rafa

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:57:39 GMT

RAFA BENITEZ will force Tom Hicks to sack him after suffering an amazing insult from Liverpool’s American owner yesterday.

The writing is clearly on the wall for the Anfield boss after Hicks admitted he offered his job to Jurgen Klinsmann two months ago.

Yet Benitez will not make it easy by quitting and turning his back on £6million compensation.

The Spaniard has constantly insisted he does not want to leave and now plans to sit tight and make Hicks take action.

Benitez’s agent Manuel Garcia Quillon stressed last night: “Rafa wants to stay at Liverpool. He is happy with the club, with the supporters and with the city and does not want to leave.”

Yet it is impossible to see the Kop boss lasting beyond the end of the season at best after the incredible revelations from America.

Hicks admitted he and George Gillett — who was stunned and outraged by his partner’s outburst — met Klinsmann in November but only approached the German as a contingency plan.

Yet Benitez knows he would already have been out of a job had Klinsmann wanted the position and must now go through the rest of the campaign knowing he is a lame duck manager.

The news sparked fury from Reds legends and fans alike, outraged the boss has been undermined and the club turned into a laughing stock.

Outburst

Hicks bizarrely tried to insist Benitez — whose side face a banana-skin FA Cup third-round replay against Luton tonight — has the full backing of the club’s owners.

He said: “In November, when it appeared we were in danger of not advancing in the Champions League, weren’t playing well in our league matches and Rafa and us were having communication issues over the transfer window, George and I met with Klinsmann to learn as much as we could about English and European football.

“He is a very impressive man. We tried to negotiate an option, as an insurance policy, to have him become our manager in the event Rafa decided to leave for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the UK Press — or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason.

“We never reached agreement on an option with Jurgen.”

Benitez heard of the meeting with Klin at Hicks’ home in southern California during the Thanksgiving holiday — ahead of his now infamous Press conference in November.

That led to his “as always, I am focused on training and coaching my team” outburst which so annoyed the Yanks.

SunSport broke the news that the Reds’ owners were eyeing Klinsmann — now off to Bayern Munich — on December 1. Then we told of Benitez’s bid for a new deal on December 21.

Relations between manager and employers DID improve when they met last month.

But the truce was at best uneasy — and this morning lies in tatters.

Now unless the Americans sell up and move on there will be a new man in charge at Anfield when next season kicks off.

Depp: I nearly quit Sweeney

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:56:28 GMT

JOHNNY DEPP’S new film Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street has scooped two Golden Globes and is tipped for further success at next month’s Oscars.

Not bad for a movie that was nearly SHELVED – when the star’s young daughter was taken seriously ill.

Filming the musical at Buckinghamshire’s Pinewood Studios was halted when eight-year-old Lily-Rose was admitted to a London hospital with the lethal E.coli virus last March.

Devoted dad Johnny, 44, kept a bedside vigil with partner Vanessa Paradis while his little girl battled the illness.

He says: “I don’t know what anyone else’s feelings were at the time – whether I was coming back or not. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to.

Devoted ... Johnny Depp with wife Vanessa and the kids

Devoted ... Johnny Depp with wife Vanessa and the kids

Matrix

“But Tim Burton, the director, and the production were unbelievably supportive and said, ‘Look, we’re hitting pause’.”

Lily-Rose was finally given the all-clear in November, when Johnny returned to the set of the film that was to earn him a Golden Globe for best actor.

Since the health scare he and singer Vanessa – who had a UK hit in 1988 with Joe le Taxi – have concentrated on spending family time with Lily-Rose and their five-year-old son Jack.

Talking about his idea of the perfect break, Johnny says: “Running around on the beach with the kids. Taking them out on the boat. We haven’t swum with dolphins yet and hopefully we won’t swim with any sharks soon. We spend a lot of time together.”

Johnny, who got his first showbiz break in the TV drama 21 Jump Street in 1987, owns homes around the world, including a mansion in Los Angeles and a farmhouse near St Tropez in France.

He says: “We live everywhere. We try to stay in France for six months a year, then we live in Los Angeles for six months. It has to do with my upbringing.

Wreaking revenge ... Johnny with Alan Rickman

Wreaking revenge ... Johnny with Alan Rickman

“I don’t like to be stuck in one place for too long. We were total nomads when I grew up. We travelled around all the time. It’s ingrained into my being.

“I think it’s good for kids to get out there and see the world. There are other interesting places than just the United States.

“I think we are very lucky. My kids are very well balanced, very grounded. I was a hellion – that’s the term my mum used. I wasn’t obnoxious but I was very curious.

“I did a lot of practical jokes as a kid, and p***ed her off quite frequently.

“My family is my sanctuary. I live for them now. I finally found a reason to exist in this world. There is nothing like it. I would give everything away, if I could only keep my family.”

As for what makes a successful relationship, Johnny says: “I think trust is the number one ingredient. And you need to be able to communicate with your partner.

“If you can’t communicate your relationship won’t work. I think everyone will agree with me.”

Click here to find out more!

As well as Johnny’s best actor award at the Golden Globes on Sunday, the bloodthirsty musical itself scooped an award for best motion picture.

The legend of Sweeney Todd tells of 19th-century barber Benjamin Barker, who arrives back in London after being transported to Australia following his wrongful conviction for a crime. He is then told his wife has killed herself and his daughter is the ward of his arch enemy Judge Turpin.

He changes his name to Sweeney Todd and begins to take revenge on all who have wronged him, cutting his victims’ throats with a razor before his friend and accomplice Mrs Lovett, a pie shop owner – played in the film by Helena Bonham Carter – disposes of his victims in her pies.

Todd’s first appearance is thought to have been in a short story in the People’s Periodical in 1846 under the title The String Of Pearls: A Romance. It was adapted for the stage a year later and titled Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street.

In the new film – Johnny’s sixth collaboration with Tim Burton – the heart-throb actor gets to show off his singing talents for the first time, a daunting prospect for a man who has always been too scared even to try singing in a bar.

He says: “I’ve always been frightened of karaoke so I’ve never tried it. It scares the hell out of me. I’ve never been that drunk. I’ve been drunk – but not that drunk.

“I really didn’t know if I could pull it off. So I went into a buddy’s studio and started to record the songs to see if I could get over the initial fear.

Accomplice ... Johnny as Sweeney with Helena Bonham Carter in film

Accomplice ... Johnny as Sweeney with Helena Bonham Carter in film

“It was challenging because there have been a lot of Sweeneys over the years. So Tim Burton and I sat down and thought about what this guy was going to look like and all of that.

“We knew this was a pretty special opportunity, a once-in-a-lifetime horror musical.”

Besides worrying about the singing, Johnny – who previously played blade-wielding Edward Scissorhands on screen – also had to get to grips with using a razor on co-stars including Alan Rickman, who plays Judge Turpin.

He says: “Having worked with sharp objects before, everything was fine until I actually had to shave someone. It made me real nervous.

“It was one of the most uncomfortable moments of my life, as it would be. Poor Alan.

“He wasn’t screaming.

He was close. I think he really didn’t enjoy it. In that sense I’m sure he hated working with me.”

#

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street is released on January 25.

Liverpool in meltdown

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:52:21 GMT

It was supposed to be the American dream - a takeover of Liverpool that promised massive investment from two generous billionaires which would finally enable the great club to compete at the top again.

Fast forward 12 months, and that dream is turning into something of a nightmare, with no end in sight to the lurid crisis that has gripped Anfield in recent months, culminating in confirmation yesterday that Rafael Benitez's job was casually offered to Jurgen Klinsmann.

Such a revelation from owner Tom Hicks, which fatally undermines Benitez's position at the club, should be just about as bad as it gets at an institution better known for its dignity in the face of adversity down the years.

But the Americans' relationship with their manager - and the implications of employing a lame duck boss over the next four months - are just about the least of the worries facing Hicks and his co-owner George Gillett.
Advertisement

Liverpool are in a mess. In fact, prefix that with an expletive, and you begin to understand the sort of mess they are in. They are a club beset by financial concerns and political infighting, and one whose prospects look bleak for at least the next four to five years.

When they bought Liverpool, Hicks and Gillett explained that they were very different from the Glazers at Manchester United, promising they would use their own money to finance the deal, and not borrow against the club. Depressingly, that promise has been broken, with the pair spending the last six months attempting to arrange finance that will ultimately put Liverpool in debt to the breathtaking tune of around £600million.

Because of the global 'credit crunch' however, banks are nervous of lending money without security, and they have demanded that both Hicks and Gillett provide personal guarantees and letters of credit to cover the loans.

Gillett has been either unwilling or unable to provide such guarantees, which has caused a major delay in finding the money, and led to speculation that the Americans would be forced to sell their stake. Hicks insisted yesterday that neither he nor his partner have any intention of selling - but he did reveal recently that the plan now is to borrow the money in two stages over the next 12 months.

If they can appease the banks then they will borrow £300m to pay for the purchase of the club and other related costs, and get the 'new Anfield' stadium build underway. In a year's time, they will borrow another £300m to pay for the stadium.

Such massive levels of borrowing means that the interest on the loan will be around £35-40m every year.

Last year, Liverpool's operating profits were in the region of £30m, meaning the loan would be almost 20 times operating profits. In comparison, Manchester United's are eight times, and Arsenal's just four.

Such financial talk is above the heads of many fans, but the bottom line for Liverpool is that at current levels, any profit will be wiped out completely by the interest on loans - which means there will be little or no money for transfers.

The Americans plan to increase profits, but until the new stadium is built - which won't be until at least 2012 - their only real way of doing so will be to increase ticket prices dramatically, another Glazer route they promised not to follow.

To this heady mix of financial worries must be added real problems in the relationship between the two Americans. There are clear indications that the pair simply no longer trust each other, and certainly, both appear to be briefing frantically against each other.

Hicks was supposed to be the silent partner providing the financial muscle in the deal, with Gillett the dealmaker who handled the public relations. Now Hicks seems to have taken over, and Gillett to have disappeared.

There is also disharmony within the Anfield boardroom, with former chairman David Moores and chief executive Rick Parry uneasy about the level of borrowing against the club, and the lack of financial progress that has been made. Which all leaves the situation with Benitez as a puzzling sideshow. In their current financial situation, Liverpool desperately require stability and guaranteed income.

Benitez has not only qualified his team for the Champions League every season, but reached the final twice in three years, providing desperately required revenue. But there is a real danger now that by undermining him so badly, the effect on the team's morale will cost them a Champions League place this season, which would be an unmitigated disaster.

By replacing him, the Americans are merely opening up the possibility of spending even more money they haven't got, because his successor would demand funds to get rid of Benitez's players and bring in his own.

Logically, the Americans would be best served by backing a manager with a good track record, in the hope that he can get the best out of a squad that will not be added to in any significant way over the short to medium term.

But logic has long flown out of the Anfield window. Benitez knows that his only chance of survival now is if the Americans sell before they can sack him.

While that seems a remote prospect, it is not impossible. DIC, the investment arm of the Dubai government, lurks in the background, still interested in buying the club they believe they were cheated out of a year ago.

Hicks revealed yesterday that in October, Liverpool were in talks to sell DIC a stake - but they stalled over the Americans' valuation of £1billion for a business they paid only £180m for just eight months previously.

If borrowing costs get any higher, then the Americans could yet be forced to lower their valuation, and sell not just a stake, but the whole club to the Arabs. A mess it certainly is.

Police hunt for 'new Madeleine' missing girl, 5

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:50:38 GMT

A major police search was underway for a missing five-year-old girl on the Spanish border with Portugal today, just 120 miles away from where Madeleine McCann vanished last year.

Mariluz Cortesa was apparently abducted on Sunday evening in the town of Huelva around two hours drive from Praia da Luz where four-year-old Maddy was snatched last May.

Kate and Gerry McCann made at least one trip to Huelva to highlight the case of their missing daughter, believing she may have been driven through the town by her kidnapper.

There is no border control between the two countries at Huelva and the frontier was not closed off on the night Madeleine disappeared. Portuguese border police were not informed Madeleine was missing until the following morning.
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And members of the country's Borders and Aliens Service were only given a photograph of the toddler 12 hours after she disappeared.

The lapse would have given an abductor plenty of time to get across the border to Spain unchecked.

Detectives searching for Mariluz are investigating a travelling circus which was said to have been in the area at the time.

Yesterday it was revealed that private detectives searching for Madeleine were investigating paedophile gangs in Spain amid fears she could have been abducted on their orders.

Detectives from agency Metodo 3 travelled to the Costa Blanca, between Alicante and Valencia, to investigate networks operating in the area. Gangs of child-sex abusers there have links with paedophiles in Belgium and Morocco, according to Portuguese newspaper Diario de Noticias.

Francisco Marco, director of the Metodo 3 agency, believes she was identified by "spotters" in Praia da Luz, abducted on the orders of a paedophile gang and smuggled through Spain into Morocco.

Lights! Camera! Action!

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:46:59 GMT

FAMOUS characters from the movie world were recreated by make-up artists in Liverpool.

Students from Bootle-based Hugh Baird college’s school of hairdressing and beauty therapy turned their friends and family into versions of the movie characters as part of an annual competition.

Characters included Jessica Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Johnny Depp, in Edward Scissorhands, and a drag queen from Priscilla Queen Of The Desert.

Teenagers entered categories including body painting, make-up and nail art at the event at Liverpool’s Adelphi hotel yesterday.

Salon workers from across the country judged the contest, and winners will go on to represent the college at a regional event in Blackpool.

£700 Macca tickets row

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:45:51 GMT

TICKETS to the Sir Paul McCartney-headlined Liverpool Sound concert at Anfield are selling for hundreds of pounds online.

The June 1 stadium gig sold out instantly last autumn with tickets, costing up to £125 each, going on sale through a ballot.

More than 32,000 fans will pack the football ground to see Macca along with other major names from the pop world who have been inspired by Liverpool music.

Rumoured acts include U2, Oasis and the Kaiser Chiefs, although culture chiefs have not yet revealed any other names. But now city leaders are being condemned for allowing people to cash-in on the once-in-a-lifetime event.

Tickets are being offered for sale on eBay at up to £700 a pair, while desperate fans already offering £600 a pair on the site.

Fed-up fans fear tickets will end-up changing hands for more than £1,000 each to corporate buyers while grass roots local enthusiasts are excluded.

Lyn Bateson, 57, said: “It's a disgrace the vultures are cashing-in on the tickets in this way.”

Gene Grimes, of the Liverpool Beatles Appreciation Society, said: “There could have been a photo ID system whereby only those who bought the tickets could use them.”

A Culture Company spokesman said tickets each had their own computerised “finger print” as part of their security.

He said: “We've put checks in place to stop fraudulent tickets circulating but if someone decides to sell their tickets there's nothing we can do.”

Countdown to grand opening of shopping paradise

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:44:47 GMT

THE date has been set for the grand opening of Liverpool One.

The first phase of the £1bn retail scheme will be opened to the public on May 29 with parties and promotions.

A spokeswoman for the Grosvenor-inspired scheme said the second phase of the Paradise Street project was likely to open towards the end of September,

She said: “The official opening day of May 29 has now been decided for the first phase of Liverpool One.

“There will be entertainment, parties and jamborees as only Liverpool can do. And we can say that there will also be big, big fashion statements.”

The news of the official opening of the biggest retail project in Europe comes the day we give readers a taste of what is to come with the latest fly-through of the finished development.

Liverpool One will bring 160 shops, led by flagship stores from high street giants John Lewis and Debenhams, 20 bars and restaurants, a multi-screen Odeon cinema, more than 600 apartments, two hotels, 3,000 underground car parking spaces and a revitalised five-acre park over the car park.
How the Grosvenor-inspired Liverpool One development will look

Some 5,000 jobs will also be created by the 42-acre scheme.

Liverpool One began a recruitment drive at six locations in the city yesterday as it looked to hire Merseysiders.

Liverpool One chief executive Joanne Jennings said: “We’re looking forward to meeting the people soon to be our Liverpool One team, who are passionate about customer service.”

Business booms in Capital of Culture launch

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:43:46 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S leisure industry enjoyed record takings for the Capital of Culture launch parties.

Some 50,000 people watched the spectacular People’s Opening at St George’s Plateau on Friday.

And 10,600 concert goers were at the ECHO Arena on Saturday night to watch Liverpool The Musical.

Nearby bars and restaurants reported record figures.

Although city centre hotels were not fully booked out, hoteliers said they welcomed far more guests than they normally would in the middle of January.

Tourism experts believe the influx of visitors and trade would increase as the city’s cultural programme unfolds over the coming year.

Albert Dock Company director Joe Edge said: “We enjoyed a momentous weekend during the city’s culture launch with guests visiting the Dock from Liverpool and around the world.”

He said visitor numbers across the entire Dock were up over Friday and Saturday.

Restaurants and bars in the city also reported brisk trading.

Japanese eaterie Sapporo, Italian restaurant Il Forno and Indian specialist Mayur, all in Duke Street’s East Village, were significantly busier than usual.

David Daly from the Liverpool Hoteliers Association said: “The weekend was not as buoyant as we thought it might be, although hotels in the immediate vicinity of the ECHO Arena did OK.

“The rest of the hotels had rooms available on both Friday and Saturday.

“But for a January weekend, when we are traditionally quiet, there was an uplift.

“But the best time to judge it will be in the summer and autumn.”

Tourism officials are also predicting great things for Liverpool on the back of enormous media attention at the launch weekend from all around the world.

Martin King, tourism director at the city’s Mersey Partnership tourist board, said: “The interest in Liverpool during the weekend and since has been phenomenal.

“Reports and images from the army of international media who covered the launch events have appeared all over the world. We picked up 443 stories from around the world in just 72 hours since Friday.

“In terms of raising awareness of Liverpool as a destination, we have seen a huge volume of coverage, which we are ready to translate into increased visitor numbers throughout 2008.”

A Liverpool Chamber of Commerce spokeswoman said: “Early reports suggest a great success for the city. The majority of city centre hotels were fully booked and licensees report a good weekend’s trading.”

BBC 'wins' battle of news bongs

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:42:49 GMT

The BBC's Ten O'Clock News was watched by 4.9m viewers, while 3.8m tuned in for ITV's revamped News at Ten, initial overnight figures have suggested.

The BBC got an audience share of 23.4% and ITV claimed 18.4% of viewers. Last week the BBC averaged 4.6m viewers, while ITV averaged 2m for the bulletin.

ITV had an exclusive with Hasnat Khan, Princess Diana's former lover, and featured the "and finally" story.

The BBC had an undercover report on internal politics from Zimbabwe.

Huw Edwards
Huw Edwards presented Monday's BBC bulletin

The BBC's programme peaked at 5.1m viewers, while ITN had a peak of 4.2m in its first fifteen minutes.

Huw Edwards and Fiona Bruce share the presenting of the BBC's Ten O'Clock News.

The BBC said: "Competition is good for viewers and it's good to see so many tuning in to watch news.

"It's too early to say how the figures will pan out over the longer term, but over the last year the BBC's Ten O'Clock News has performed extremely well, gaining 320,000 viewers."

The BBC's director general, Mark Thompson, said the corporation remains "totally committed to news at regular times six nights week".

"If the result of this is that the total audience for news goes up, nobody will be happier than me," he said.

ITV's director of television, Simon Shaps, said: "We are very pleased that the return of News at Ten was watched by over four million viewers last night.

THE EDITORS' BLOG
Editors' blog
Putting the two bulletins head to head will keep all of us on our toes
Peter Horrocks,
Head of BBC Newsroom

Peter's comments in full

"This is an increase of over 1.5 million viewers on the average for the previous 10.30pm ITV News bulletin and a marked improvement across the 10.00pm slot."

Sir Trevor McDonald, who last presented ITV's evening news bulletin in 2005, said he was "delighted to be back" as the channel's lead newscaster.

News at Ten was first dropped in 1999 after nearly 32 years on air, to make room for films to be aired in prime time. The BBC capitalised on the move by shifting its main news to 2200 a year later.

ITV's bulletin returned again for three years from 2001, after which the broadcaster settled on 2230 as the time for its main news bulletin.

News at Ten's latest revival is part of a schedule revamp which has shifted soap operas Emmerdale and Coronation Street out of their Sunday night slots.

Weekends are being given over to more drama and entertainment, including the new series of Dancing On Ice which began on Sunday evening.

Other new ITV1 programmes include quiz show Duel and improvisation show Thank God You're Here, featuring comic Paul Merton.

Liverpool's Culture cracker thrills watching world

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 08:06:32 GMT

THE official launch of Liverpool’s Capital of Culture year was “a world-class start to a world-class programme in a world-class city,” city leaders said last night.

Civic figures last night hailed the first of the 2008 celebrations as an unprecedented success – and said the weekend was just the beginning.

Tens of thousands of people descended on the city centre to enjoy Friday night’s “People’s Opening” and Saturday’s musical spectacular at the Echo Arena, Liverpool – leaving an overjoyed culture supremo Phil Redmond to declare: “We did it, didn’t we?”

And alongside the crowds were the world’s media, with hundreds of journalists from across the globe reporting on the action, including Americans, Iranians and Argentinians.

Ringo Starr led a cast of hundreds from the roof of St George’s Hall on Friday night, while Saturday saw the former Beatle at the heart of Liverpool: The Musical, featuring a wealth of Mersey talent including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Pete Wylie, Echo and The Bunnymen, and The Farm.

As he left the stage Ringo said: “It’s a great night for Liverpool, it’s going well so far. The Arena here is great, it’s certainly the best in Liverpool.”

He told the delighted crowd he was “this close to moving back”.

Leader of Liverpool council, Cllr Warren Bradley, said: “I doubt any other Capital of Culture has had the scale of global interest that the launch generated.

“Tens of millions were tuned in across America to watch Ringo Starr on CBS, and I have been interviewed by scores of journalists from across the globe.

‘EQUALLY important for me, though, was making sure ordinary people were involved and we saw that with the 40,000 strong crowd on and around St George’s Hall on Friday and the 10,000 who were in the Arena on Saturday.

“Both were truly world-class shows which would make any city envious and I was immensely proud. We have succeeded in sending out a hugely powerful positive message about Liverpool – and this is only the beginning.”

Liverpool: The Musical – The Greatest Story Ever Told traced the 800- year history of the city.

Creative director of the Culture Company, Phil Redmond, who introduced Ringo on stage, described the night as “brilliant, truly brilliant”.

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Paul Clark, said: “Wasn’t that fantastic? It really told the city’s story and linked with our music, too. I have had one of the best weekends of my life. If this carries on this year, the Culture year will have been a real success and the city will really take off.”

Culture Company chairman Bryan Gray said: “Clearly, we were very keen to get the Capital of Culture year off to a good start, and although it is but two days in 366, it is the two most important in terms of the spotlight of the world being on Liverpool.”
pic andrew teebay. liverpool the musical at the echo arena........ gateway to the empire-no fakin dj,s,the rlpo,liverpool welsh choir,kathryn rudge,laye sow,bruce scott,valley brass band,marine society & sea cadets,singing rule britannia & land of hope & glory & others........

Culture minister James Purnell had been “hugely impressed” by Friday and Saturday night’s events, Mr Gray added.

Marketing director Kris Donaldson added: “It was beyond our expectations. It was just fantastic to see the reactions of so many different parts of Liverpool, from the artists, to the people out at St George’s plateau, from the politicians and business people – a whole cross-section of Liverpudlians, thrilled and excited.

“We had been wanting to make sure the opening weekend was really special, and we know how important it was to set the tone for the whole year.

“The wall walkers on Friday night really had that wow factor, and on Saturday, seeing the orchestra revealed for the first time was incredibly moving and I think the city needs to pay special tribute to Vasily Petrenko and the orchestra.”

Jayne Casey, one of the co-directors of the weekend, said of Friday’s crowd: “We looked at photographs of the football cup coming home outside St George’s Hall and thought, if we can get half as many people there, it will look great – and on the night there was so many people it was incredible.

“Ringo has been amazing all the way through. He always had faith, and the thing about him is he integrated himself. The show involved hundreds of artists and he became just another artist.

“Saturday was a fantastic experience, and working with the Phil over the last few months has been one of the highlights of my career. And it was great to see Riuven, a young Toxteth lad, owning the stage and representing his section of the music industry.”

Fiona Gasper, executive producer of the 2008 programme, said: “It has been a great start, and I think it was a real moment for all those people who had been involved right from the start, and for the city, to take great pride in the weekend.

“I don’t think there can be any doubt that the scale and ambition of the weekend has put Liverpool on the map around the world.”

Celebrities spotted in the crowd at the Arena on Saturday night included Kenny Dalglish, the actors Joe and Paul McGann with friend David Morrissey, and Ken Dodd, looking fully recovered from his recent operation.

Martin King, director of tourism at The Mersey Partnership, said: “It’s been a thrilling and historic weekend for the destination.

“A world-class start to a world-class programme in a world-class city.

“The watching world has shared our excitement to see Capital of Culture launched in a spectacular fashion.

“Liverpool: The Musical was a fantastic way to open the Echo Arena and this superb facility together with the BT Convention Centre opening in April will deliver a £100m boost to the visitor economy this year alone.”

Labour leader Joe Anderson said: “It’s the first time I’ve been in the Arena and what a great venue it is. I’m sure it’s going to be a real positive for Liverpool and its future. I enjoyed the night, but I’m disappointed we reminded people of everything we are trying to get people to forget.

“The whole idea is to use Capital of Culture as an opportunity to market ourselves and rebrand, not remind people of the dark days.”

Jack Stopforth, chief executive of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, said: “The weekend was fantastic. I have been around the arena three or four times during construction, but on Saturday I was knocked out by it. What an amazing asset it is going to be for Liverpool.”

Steve Broomhead, chief executive of the North West Development Agency, said: “The whole weekend was superb. It was a celebration of the past and the struggles that Liverpool have been through but very much looking to the future.”

For more on the culture weekend launch - click here

Arabs back in frame for Liverpool FC move

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:59:00 GMT

FRESH rumours were circulating last night that an Arab investment group is poised to swoop on Liverpool FC if the club’s American owners continue to experience difficulties in refinancing £350m of debt.

It is understood Dubai Inter- national Capital (DIC) are close to lodging an offer to buy out Tom Hicks and George Gillett, probably for about £500m.

If correct, it would be a remarkable turnaround for DIC, owned by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed, who were bid rivals at the time Hicks and Gillett bought the club a year ago, and shows they have not given up hope of taking control at Anfield.

But the rumours – which could see Liverpool FC changing hands for the second time in a year – were strongly denied by sources at the club.

It is understood the US pair have been attempting to trans-fer the debt used to buy the club, for which they are per- sonally liable and which is due to be repaid at the end of February, on to the club itself but have encountered difficul- ties because of the current global credit squeeze.

If DIC is successful, it is claimed, the outfit led by Liverpool supporter Sameer Al Ansari would invest heavily in the new stadium at Stanley Park and the playing squad.

DIC were extremely close to buying Liverpool last February, only to lose when Hicks and Gillett joined forces.

The latter paid £174.1m for a 100% shareholding, also agreeing to take on the club’s then debt of £44.8m. The purchase, however, was funded solely with borrowed money. Hicks and Gillett’s loan from the Royal Bank of Scotland swelled to £350m as it was used to fund several high-profile summer transfers, development work and architect’s plans for the 60,000-seat stadium in Stanley Park.

Hicks and Gillett declined to comment last night.

A meeting in New York last week saw architects HKS and AFL present new competing stadium designs, seen as vital for the club to increase revenue to allow it to compete with Man Utd and Arsenal.

But an expected decision at the end of last week has been delayed for around two weeks.

Middle East sources say DIC remain keenly interested in buying Liverpool.

Movie moguls axe plan to film Batman in Liverpool

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:56:24 GMT

POW!

HOPES this year’s new Batman movie could make Liverpool a tourism hotspot have been zapped.

But today upbeat film bosses revealed the city was still going to have “the eyes of the world” on it with an army of TV and film crews shooting productions in the past 12 months ahead of Capital of Culture year.

Bosses behind Batman film The Dark Knight visited Liverpool two years ago after being impressed with its architecture.

But today Liverpool Film Office confirmed the movie team plumped for Chicago, feeling it was more suited to Gotham City.

However the film office’s location co-ordinator, Kevin Bell, said shots of Liverpool feature in scores of projects being viewed in living rooms and on cinema screens across the globe this year.

He said: “Last year alone there were 174 productions ranging from feature films to travel logs and documentaries and that equated to 564 days filming.

Projects filmed in Liverpool in 2007 include BBC1 exorcist drama Apparitions starring Judge John Deed star Martin Shaw.

The show, due to go out later this year, includes shots of Princes Park and Broadgreen Hospital used for a hospital ward scene. The city was also used for forthcoming BBC drama documentary The Unusual Miss Nightingale charting the story of Florence Nightingale.

Buildings used included St George’s Hall with the Great Hall used to create a palace scene.

Mr Bell said the increased profile during Capital of Culture year and the Digital Departures Initiative competition would also provide a boost.

The contest invited writers, producers and directors from across the north west to pitch ideas and it will see three winning movies given budgets of £250,000 each and premiered this year.

Mr Bell, said: “Once these films are made, hopefully other film makers will say ‘we can do it’ and help make Liverpool, with its fabulous architecture and local talent, a hub for micro-budget as well as the bigger budget films.”

Anthony stays relaxed about his solo career

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:53:02 GMT

The ex-Eton Road star tells Jade Wright how excited he is ahead of performing at the Number One Project concert at the ECHO Arena
Number One Project logo

ANTHONY Hannah has been oddly quiet since he quit Eton Road last summer.

But away from the limelight, the 18-year-old singer from West Derby has been busy re-inventing himself as a solo artist and now, with the backing of the team behind Atomic Kitten, he’s re-recorded Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s iconic Relax.

It’s part of the Number One Project, which aims to raise £1m for Merseyside charities by getting local bands to re-record some of the city’s greatest chart-topping hits.

“I was so pleased when I was asked to be part of the Number One Project,” says Anthony.

“Initially I wanted to do You Spin Me by Dead or Alive – I love that song, but then my management said I’d be better doing Relax.

“I wasn’t sure at first. It’s quite nerve-wracking to do such a big song. I love the original, but I wanted to put my own spin on it.

“Then when I was at home one day it came to me how to do it. I recorded my ideas on a Dictaphone and took them to the producer, Ciaran Bell.

“He was great at making it sound how I wanted. He really brought out that mysterious side to it.

“We put some samples from the original in too, so there’s a nod to the Frankie version.”

Anthony is particularly looking forward to performing the song at the new ECHO Arena on Saturday.

“Obviously I’ve played arenas with the X-factor tour, but to play at the new arena in my hometown is just going to be a dream come true,” he smiles.

“I remember when that arena was first being built, I was like 16, a kid at college. I never dreamt that I’d be playing one of the first big events there.

“I think it’s perfect that it’s the ECHO Arena too. The Liverpool ECHO is a legendary brand in Merseyside.”

On the night of the concert, the voice cheering on Anthony louder than any other will be his proud nan, Hetty Hannah. She has watched him grow into a talented young singer.

Now his No. 1 fan, she is always by his side to encourage and promote him.

“My nan’s like the ticket master,” laughs Anthony. “She’s getting everyone I know to come along and cheer me on. She’s a star. I don’t know what I’d do without her.

“People on the fansites have been making ‘Anthony says Relax’ T-shirts,” he glows. “They’re going to wear them at the concert and my nan says she’s going to get one too.”

Are you tempted to wear one yourself?

“Oh no, I’m going to wear something far more flamboyant,” he laughs.

“Think Mark Bolan meets David Bowie. It’s going to be full-on electro glam.

“There’s going to be 10,000 people in that audience. I can’t go on in jeans and a T-shirt can I?”

And Anthony says one of the highlights of the night will be getting to share a stage with his old Eton Road bandmates.

“It’s like I’ve come full-circle,” he explains. “It’s great to be able to do my first big solo performance with my ex-bandmates on the same bill.”

Anthony is certainly enjoying his new-found freedom.

“My new music is really electro. It’s kind of funky, cool – I love it. It’s the music that I’ve always loved, and now I’m getting to make it.”

Anthony Hannah plays the Number One Project concert at the ECHO Arena on Saturday.

For tickets, call 0844 8000 400. The album will be out on February 4.

For more information see www.thenumberoneproject.org.

Two shot in bike attack

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:51:02 GMT

A DOUBLE shooting in Liverpool left two young men in hospital.

Detectives believe two gunmen on bikes wearing balaclavas blasted the victims with a shotgun in Carr Lane, Norris Green.

Both men, aged 18 and 21, were shot in the leg.

One has been released from hospital and both have given accounts of events to the police.

Officers called to the scene just after 10.20pm on Friday found the two victims lying in the street.

They were taken to hospital where doctors treated their non-life threatening injuries.

Rumours around the L11 community said the shootings could be gang-related.

The scene was cordoned off and guarded by police overnight before crime scene investigators moved in.

Officers carried out house-to-house inquiries and returned to the road on Saturday.

A team of extra police officers were assigned to Croxteth, Norris Green and Stockbridge Village in November to curb the escalating shootings.

A Merseyside police spokeswoman said: “Both of the injured parties suffered gunshot wounds to their legs and their injuries are not life-threatening.

“We want to hear from anyone who witnessed this attack or who saw two or possibly three suspects on bikes escaping from the scene immediately afterwards.

“We would ask drivers in the area of Lower Lane around the time of the shooting to think back in case they saw the offenders making their way from the scene.

“We believe they rode away towards Croxteth.”

On Thursday, police raided 30 addresses in Croxteth and Norris Green, targeting suspected drug dealers and gang members.

They found guns, cash and drugs and 18 people appeared in court on Friday charged with various offences.

Anyone with information should contact Merseyside police gun crime hotline on 0800 458 1211 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

What a weekend! Culture year opens in style

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:48:16 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S Capital of Culture year started in style with a spectacular opening weekend.

Thousands of people packed Lime Street with crowds estimated at up to 50,000 converging on the city centre for Friday night’s grand People’s Opening.

And 24 hours later the city did it all again with a dazzling launch show at the new ECHO Arena which also officially opened the waterfront venue.

The two events involved more than 1,000 performers in total and took months of planning.

But they left a myriad of memorable images and paved the way for what culture chiefs hope will be a historic year of celebration across the city.

More than 350 cultural events are planned during 2008 with around 70% of them free.

By Friday the wet and windy weather which pummelled Liverpool all week had disappeared and the conditions were perfect for the crowds which flocked to St George’s Hall.

A sea of people stretched along Lime Street from the old ABC cinema to the Churchill Way flyover with onlookers packing any vantage point they could find.

Generations of the same families, teenage Wombat fans, Beatle enthusiasts, expats, couples, children and pensioners all stood together to watch the 40-minute show headlined by Fab Four legend Ringo Starr.

Many described it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

Caroline Moore, 55, from Sefton Park, said: “It’s such a momentous occasion and it’s great to be able to be part of it.”

Sue and Harry Clements, from New Brighton, arranged their winter holiday so they would be back for the show.

Mrs Clements said: “It’s something you’re never going to see again and we’re so proud of the city, of what it stands for and what it’s going to become in the future.”

Both opening ceremonies were timed to start at 20:08 (8.08pm) – Liverpool’s European Capital of Culture year.

The People’s Opening began with a countdown chant and 2008 emblazoned in lights high above St George’s Plateau.

The show, marrying together Liverpool’s cultural and maritime trade heritage, involved four cranes, four performing forklift trucks, 60 tonnes of containers, 80 tonnes of lighting, Liverpool band The Wombats and a cast of 600.

They included youngsters from Speke’s St Christopher’s primary and Pleasant Street primary, in the city centre, who carried illuminated “treasures” boxes on stage.

There were also hundreds of singers from Merseyside choirs.

Aerial acrobats and wall walkers were suspended precariously from cranes, guitarists balanced on top of the St Johns centre car park while rooftop musicians from Urban Strawberry Lunch lined the portico of St George’s Hall.

The show also featured the arrival of Liverpool’s “precious cargo” – stars of stage, screen, music, sport and business.

They included actors David Morrissey, Alison Steadman, Paul Barber, David Yip, Jean Boht, Geoffrey Hughes, Sue Johnson, Cathy Tyson and Paul and Joe McGann, musicians Marc Almond, The Farm, Echo and the Bunnymen, Sugababe Heidi Range, Liz McClarnon, conductor Vasily Petrenko, sportsmen Peter Reid and John Conteh and

entertainers such as Les Dennis and Claire Sweeney.

Alison Steadman said: "The People’s Opening was fantastic and it was such an exciting atmosphere."

Former Brookside actor Mickey Starke said: "The crowds were amazing and everybody was having fun. There was a nice atmosphere - it was just tremendous.

"I’m proud as punch. It’s terrific for the city and just a really positive time."

Liz McClarnon admitted she cried.

And Les Dennis described how he felt emotional emerging into Lime Street to see the crowds gathered on Friday night.

He said: "I was welling up, it really was amazing, such an emotional night.

"Everybody got the feeling it was just something special."

Peter Hooton, of The Farm. said: "Liverpool as a city just looked absolutely great, it looked like Rome.

"The crowd were unbelievable. We were on stage looking out and there had to be 50,000-100,000 people there. It was absolutely rammed."

Actor Paul McGann said: "The atmosphere was fantastic and there was a great spirit."

The evening was headlined by Ringo Starr, whose first public appearance in the city for 16 years generated huge cheers from the thousands of spectators.

He performed his new song Liverpool 8 from a container-turned-stage 100ft above the ground on the portico of the Grade I listed hall, joined by Eurythmics’ guitarist Dave Stewart.

Earlier in the day the 67-year-old drummer paid a private visit to his old school, now called Shorefields technology college, where they have named a new £1m sports field after their most famous old boy.

He said: "From when I lived here the city has changed, but the atmosphere of the city doesn’t change, it’s still here.

"Liverpool has its own sense of humour, it’s own way of being.

"I think this is great. Liverpool is the Capital of Culture and the title brings it to the attention of the whole world.

"It’s all happening here."

The Beatle also paid tribute to Liverpool audiences.

He said: "The Liverpool crowd are always honest. When you’re performing they don’t put up with any rubbish, if you’re not actually doing it they let you know."

And the crowds turned out again for the second part of the opening weekend - Liverpool the Musical: The Greatest Story Ever Told - at the new ECHO Arena on Saturday.

The ambitious brainchild of artistic directors Nigel Jamieson and Jayne Casey was a stunning visual and musical show.

At its heart was a 90-minute film edited from 480 minutes of footage.

It told the story of Liverpool from the city’s rise to riches on the back of its maritime strength and the slave trade, through the huge wave of 19th century emigration and immigration to the Liverpool Blitz, the Merseybeat era, slum clearance and new "cities in the sky", sport, political tensions and unemployment of the 1980s, fashion and the city’s current resurgence.

The film and images were beamed on to a special "scrim" screen covering a seven storey Jailhouse Rock-style scaffolding set lined by musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Their superb playing throughout, led by charismatic conductor Vasily Petrenko standing on a scissor lift raised platform, anchored the 100-minute show from the opening strains of Rule Britannia - performed with the No Fakin DJs - to the final notes of John Lennon’s Power to the People.

Carl Jung’s famous description of Liverpool as "the pool of life" was followed by Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory, with naval cadets signalling with semaphore flags.

Images showing the city’s role in the slave trade were accompanied by Amazing Grace, the hymn penned by John Newton - himself the captain of a Liverpool slave ship.

Later a Monty Python-style Queen Victoria "ate" the ships which sailed across the giant screen.

Echo and the Bunnymen performed their top 10 hit Nothing Lasts Forever, acting as the soundtrack to black and white photographs of the bomb damage inflicted on the city during World War II.

Film of the great Liverpool liners and the sailors known as the Cunard Yanks filled the screen as The Wombats performed their new single Moving to New York.

And award-winning Liverpool blues singer Connie Lush gave a tour de force performance of I Put a Spell on You as images of the Merseybeat era were accompanied by amazing aerial acrobats.

Gary Christian joined Jennifer John and the Sense of Sound choir for a psychedelic rendition of the Beatles’ Revolution.

And later there was 1960s film footage of artists Adrian Henri and Yoko Ono.

Christian also performed the 1969 George Harrison-penned classic Here Comes the Sun.

Four spacemen bounded into the ether, Neil Armstrong-like, to All You Need is Love.

The La’s sing-a-long There She Goes was the soundtrack to a changing face of Liverpool and the move from inner city tenements to new homes in the sky and the expanding suburbs.

Generations of Liverpool music were represented during the show with rappers RiUvEn telling the crowd "this is how we do it in the L.I.V.".

Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s iconic Two Tribes played as revolving images of Derek "Degsy" Hatton, Margaret Thatcher and Boys From the Blackstuff heralded conflict-riven 1980s Liverpool.

Poignant footage of a happy John Lennon fooling around, while his 1973 song Mind Games played, was greeted with applause.

Pete Wylie performed his anthem Heart as Big as Liverpool as images of the city’s great historic and artistic landmarks rolled across the giant screen.

The party was brought to a close with the 10,600-capacity crowd on their feet for The Farm’s legendary All Together Now, and Ringo Starr performing not just his new single Liverpool 8 but also the Sgt Pepper classic With a Little Help From My Friends and Lennon’s Power to the People.

Cheers raised the roof as cultural director Phil Redmond told the ECHO Arena crowd: "Well, we did it."

Power to the people indeed.

Liverpool - the city of hope and glory - launches its year in spectacular style!

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:47:22 GMT

THE challenge, spectacularly realised, was to encapsulate the story of Liverpool past, present and future in 100 minutes of high- energy music-led performance with a Beatle thrown in.

Though nothing much happened for the first six centuries after the granting of the royal charter in 1208 it was still a gargantuan task.

If the purpose of turning the image of Queen Victoria into a Monty Python-style animation was meant to be the start of a guilt trip about the city’s imperialist past, it failed.

The kickstart singing of Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory had a place beyond the realms of cynicism and political correctness.

If it had not been for the merchant princes – silk-hatted ghosts today – there would be no wider city stage on which to enact Capital of Culture.

And certainly no St George’s Hall to provide a backdrop for Friday’s more succinct People’s Opening.

The rich have a deserved place in the progress of things.

To merely off-set them against sloganising, “Empires built on force will always fail”, or regret for the slave trade (the follow-up singing of Amazing Grace, written by Liverpool former slave ship captain John Newton) smacks of skewing history to suit today’s over-riding dogma of appeasement by omission.

Similarly the gulf between rich and poor is integral to the Liverpool jigsaw.

Hence the telling footage of the cockroach-infested tenements, the grinding poverty and the fightback of tens of thousands of ordinary people from the bombardment of war and the collapse of industry.

The often harsh reality has been very different from the Swiss philosopher Carl Jung’s dreaming vision of Liverpool as “the pool of life”.

The main purpose of all this, exemplified by the 10,000-seater cathedral-like full ECHO Arena was to deliver far more than a breast-beatingly worthy socio-economic powerpoint presentation.

It was a joyous celebration of re-spun prosperity, taking place in a long-overdue public facility which will not only attract top acts, but will help revive the flagging fortunes of the entire Albert Dock complex.

In that sense alone no other city in Britain could have provided such a positive home-produced declaration of intent.

The fabulous production concept, devised by Nigel Jamieson and Liverpool post-punk queen of retro Jayne Casey, placed the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and their conductor Vasily Petrenko centre stage - more than 70 musicians stacked up on six levels and providing the backing for all that followed.

Everyone will have had their favourite moments.

The very best included Scotland Road-raised Connie Lush, five times winner of best UK blues vocalist, and rightly afforded two spots, the second of which was a gloriously slick self-penned song Shoppin’ set against the most innovative VT footage of the night showing the emerging Paradise Street retail quarter.

Another highlight was Toxteth hip-hop rapper RiUvEn with the aptly titled This Is How We Do It In The L.I.V.

And there were equally telling contributions from Jenny John and her Sense of Sound choir, as well as the massed voices of the Liverpool Welsh Choir.

Pete Wylie, Garry Christian and Echo and the Bunnymen ably represented the old school; Shack the now established, with new Lipa-formed band The Wombats trailing their single Moving To New York.

But by this time we were moving to the final sequence.

It took good old Pete Hooton and The Farm, with their now universal anthem Altogether Now – to bring the crowd to its feet – a literal feat repeated by the second appearance of the weekend by Ringo Starr.

Yes, once a Beatle, always a Beatle.

Which explains the appeal of the 67-year-old now cropped former mop top reprising With A Little Help From My Friends.

As at Friday’s open-air gig, there was the title track from Ringo’s autobiographical CD Liverpool 8.

“Liverpool I Left You But I never Let You Down,” he sang, bobbing about, mic in hand.

It could have been karaoke down the local. But it wasn’t.

It was one of two surviving Beatles (the other is booked for May and June) reminding his own folk - and the world - that once you’ve made it, the only person who can possibly put a stop to it is yourself.

Jade Wright gets the back-stage verdict from all the Arena stars

LIVERPOOL music greats past and present were in tune to get the city’s Capital of Culture coronation off to the best possible start.

Ringo Starr, Echo and the Bunnymen and The Farm led the watching thousands on a trip through Liverpool’s musical heritage.

Rising stars The Wombats gave a glimpse of its glorious future as this city set out its stall to the world.

As Ringo so eloquently put it - “good music always comes out of Liverpool”.

Fittingly it was Ringo who brought both nights to a climax with a mix of the old and the new, and seemed to relish being back in front of his home crowd.

“As you gig around the world, the Liverpool crowd are always honest. When you’re performing they don’t put up with c**p. If you’re not doing it they let you know.”

He was keen to show he still keeps an eye on the local music scene: “I love the Zutons, I can’t say that enough.”

His own album Liverpool 8 is out today and co-producer Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics played alongside him at both events.

He also had a hand in the creation of the anthemic song Liverpool 8.

Ringo said: “Dave played the chords but I had to throw in all the words because it was about my life.

“I had ‘Liverpool I left you’. And he said ‘but you never let it down’.”

Stewart said: “We only really met a year ago although we’d bumped into each other before that.

“I didn’t realise what a fountain of brilliant words and sayings came out of his mouth. Then I realised that words like ‘a Hard Day’s Night’ were his.

“Liverpool 8 captures something in Ringo that reminds people of what a great contribution he made to the Beatles.”

Liverpool’s musicians were vocal in their support for the events on both of the city’s great nights.

Farm frontman Peter Hooton said: “It has been fantastic for Liverpool.

“The opening ceremony was amazing. I was very moved by it. The choir were unbelievable.

“All the artists who went onstage for the ‘royal’ wave watched from the backstage bit and the amount of people in the crowd was staggering.

“They were saying it was 50,000 people.

“But going on my knowledge of football and homecoming crowds I’d say it was a lot more than that. You could see them right down London Road and up as far as the Adelphi and Great Charlotte Street.”

Speaking about the events at the ECHO arena he added: “It was brilliant from start to finish.

“When Ringo did Power to the People it was amazing. And there was the Philharmonic like Celebrity Squares in all that scaffolding.

“I had tingles running up and down my spine. It was just stunning.

“Before the show Ringo came into our dressing room to say hello. We’ve all hugged a Beatle now.

“We’ve sung with a Beatle too. And that’s even better.

“But I did say to Ringo ‘lose the earring. Then you can be a Scouser again’.”

The Wombats, who met while studying at Lipa, performed new single Moving to New York on both nights.

Drummer Dan Haggis dressed up as a bear for Friday’s performance.

The 21-year-old from Garston said: “It was unbelievable up on St George’s Hall.

“I don’t know how many people were up there. But looking round 180 degrees there were crowds everywhere.

“But then I was looking at it through two little bear eyes. I thought it would be funny to go and get a costume.”

Ian McCulloch, singer of Echo and the Bunnymen, performed Nothing Lasts Forever with the Philharmonic orchestra.

He said after the show: “It was great. I loved it.

“At one point, during the first verse, I thought my legs were going to go. It wasn’t nerves. It was just this great weight as I looked out.

“But yes, the night, the whole thing, it was beautiful.”

Stunning show as Liverpool shows world what 08 has in store

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:45:31 GMT

THE ECHO Arena opened in spectacular style with a cast of 700 performing Liverpool the Musical: the Greatest Story Ever Told.

A capacity 10,600 crowd were treated to a visual and musical extravaganza headlined by Beatles legend Ringo Starr.

Musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra created a stunning backdrop to the show, stacked on vertical scaffolding seven storeys high.

They were illuminated by multi-coloured lights as the Phil’s young Russian maestro Vasily Petrenko conducted them from a scissor lift on stage.

A 90-minute film telling the story of Liverpool was beamed on to a special “scrim” screen covering the ambitious scaffolding set.

It included the city’s maritime heritage and rise to riches, the slave trade, emigration and immigration, the Liverpool Blitz, the Merseybeat era, slum clearance, political tensions and unemployment of the 1980s and the city’s current regeneration.

Culture director Phil Redmond told the crowds: “This is the start - we’ve got the whole year. It will be your 2008 Capital of Culture.”

Stars of the show included Echo and the Bunnymen, Shack, the Christians, RiUvEn, The Farm, The Wombats, Connie Lush, No Fakin’ DJs and Pete Wylie.
Liverpool The Musical

Among the crowd were a host of other Liverpool actors, musicians, sportsmen and performers, many of whom took part in Friday night’s People’s Opening.

They included David Morrissey, Alison Steadman, Paul Barber, Kenny Dalglish, Peter Reid, Les Dennis, Carla Lane, Sue Johnson, Janice Long, Cathy Tyson, Ricky Tomlinson and David Yip.

King of comedy Ken Dodd was also at the show, his first public appearance since an operation two weeks ago.

Former Childwall Valley high school pupil Alison Steadman said: “I was just thrilled to be asked to come up to the city and to see all the Liverpool acts.”

Les Dennis described the ECHO Arena as “brilliant” and hailed the start of Capital of Culture year.

He said: “I think we’ve been waiting for this moment.

“The Beatles put us on the map and we’ve gone through difficulties as a city but we’ve always believed we’re capable of this.

“We deserve it.”

Joe McGann, who took part in last month’s Liverpool Nativity, was at the Capital of Culture celebrations with brother Paul.

The 49-year-old said: “It’s fantastic and a lovely thing to be involved in.”

Tickets for the ECHO Arena show were allocated by ballot.

There were also 240 lucky winners of an ECHO competition to secure a place at the historic event.

Assistant chief executive of Mersey Care, Mandy Chivers, was at the arena with husband Eric.

The 45-year-old said: “Mersey Care is supporting Capital of Culture year and it’s just great to be here and be part of it.

“There’s so much culture and diversity in Liverpool and it’s a great opportunity to show that and celebrate culture in all its forms.”

John Pye and wife Amanda from Widnes won seats at the front of the arena in the ticket ballot.

Mr Pye, 44, said: “I feel like we’ve won the golden ticket and I don’t quite believe it. It’s such a privilege – and we get to see a Beatle too. Capital of Culture is a great thing for the city.”

Roderick Usher and friend Arthur Wynne came from Sussex for the opening show.

Mr Usher, 45, who was looking forward to seeing Echo and the Bunnymen, said: “We love Liverpool. There’s just so much going on and we’ve already got tickets for other big events.”

The cast of 700, whose ages ranged from six to 78, included 100 youngsters from Pleasant Street school in the city centre, and St Christopher’s, Speke, bearing illuminated “Treasures” boxes, aerialists, Valley Brass Band and semaphore signallers.

Hundreds of singers from Sense of Sound, Liverpool Welsh Choral, Formby High Midnight Voices, Sound Central Community Singers, Liverpool Philharmonic Gospel Choir, One Voice Community Choir, 1 heart 1 and ACCORD community gospel choir also took part.

The show ended with Beatles legend Ringo Starr performing his new song Liverpool 8, and a massed audience sing-a-long of With a Little Help from My Friends and Power to the People.

Scenes of total joy
Crowds packed into the ECHO Arena for Liverpool - The Musical

A CROWD of 50,000 packed Lime Street to see the Capital of Culture people’s opening.

They flocked to the free show on Friday night creating scenes not seen since Liverpool’s Champions League homecoming in 2005.

The 40-minute People’s Opening ceremony, headlined by Ringo Starr and Dave Stewart, involved a cast of 700 including 40 aerial performers, 20 guitarists, 200 Liverpool primary school pupils, the Wombats, Merseyside choirs, and stars of stage, screen, music, sport and business.

Artistic directors Nigel Jamieson and Jayne Casey used St George’s Hall and surrounding buildings including the Walker Art Gallery, the Empire theatre and St John’s shopping centre car park in the show.

Images were beamed on to 40ft by 40ft projection screens on St George’s Plateau, and the side of the Holiday Inn was turned into a giant screen.

Council leader Warren Bradley said: “It was superb. We couldn’t have wished for a better start to 2008.”

Director of tourism at The Mersey Partnership Martin King said: “Nowhere in the world can offer what we can in the coming year.”

Tom Hicks exclusive: We lined up Jurgen Klinsmann

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:44:40 GMT

TOM Hicks and George Gillett held a secret meeting with Jurgen Klinsmann to line him up as the next manager of Liverpool FC.

Hicks today insisted the talks would not have resulted in the immediate dismissal of Rafael Benitez and that Klinsmann was only ” an insurance policy.”

He told the ECHO: “We attempted to negotiate an option, as an insurance policy, to have him become manager if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs that were rumoured in the UK press.

“Or in case our communication spiralled out of control for some reason.”

The ECHO can also reveal:

Had Liverpool crashed out of the Champions League the club’s owners would have tried to replace Benitez.

A deal was almost agreed for Dubai International Capital to buy a minority share in the club in the autumn, only for talks to collapse over the valuation of the club.

Hicks is hopeful for a financial restructure and that plans for the new stadium will be released by the end of this week.

Liverpool reveal Klinsmann talks

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:43:41 GMT

Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks says he held talks with Jurgen Klinsmann in November about taking over as manager in case Rafael Benitez left the club.

Mixed performances and a row with Hicks and co-owner George Gillett on transfer policy put Benitez's position in doubt.

"We attempted to negotiate an option as an insurance policy... if Rafa left for Real Madrid or other clubs rumoured, " Hicks told the Liverpool Echo.

He added: "Or in case our communication spiralled out of control."

Hicks was alluding to the criticism of Hicks and Gillett by Benitez over their transfer policy which angered the American duo and put the Spaniard's position in jeopardy.

606: DEBATE
Will Rafa Benitez survive this latest revelation?

Klinsmann's services have now been secured by Bayern Munich and he will take over the German club at the end of this season.

The confirmation of talks between Klinsmann and his bosses will come as a blow to Benitez, although Hicks said the negotiations took place in November when the club were in danger of going out of the Champions League at the group stages and suffering indifferent league form.

Liverpool needed a 4-1 win over Marseille in their final group game on 11 December to book their place in the knockout stages.

It's a ham-fisted and un-Liverpool like way of dealing with this sort of thing

BBC Sport's Phil McNulty

The American owners and Benitez had clear-the-air talks after the Premier League loss to Manchester United on 16 December and Hicks now insists the Reds manager has their full support.

"After George and I had our long and productive meeting with Rafa following the Manchester United match, we put all of our issues behind us and received Rafa's commitment that he wanted to stay with Liverpool," said Hicks.

"We never reached agreement on an option with Jurgen, and we are both pleased for him that he has a great opportunity to return to Germany and coach a great club team.

"Rafa has both of our support, and our communication has greatly improved."

But Liverpool's form has not improved and they are currently 12 points off the top of the Premier League table.

They were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Chelsea and have been taken to a replay by struggling Luton in the FA Cup third round.

BBC Sport's Phil McNulty said he believed that if Liverpool had failed to reach the knockout stages of the Champions League, Benitez would have been sacked.

"It's a ham-fisted and un-Liverpool like way of dealing with this sort of thing," said McNulty.

"Normally everything they have done has been done in-house and yet for weeks it's been an open secret that if anything happened to Benitez then Jurgen Klinsmann was going to be his successor."

'Paedo dumped Maddie in lake'

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 05:03:34 GMT

MADELEINE McCann was raped and killed within 48 hours of being snatched then thrown in a reservoir, a Portuguese lawyer claimed yesterday.

Human rights solicitor Marcos Aragao Correia said underworld sources tipped him off on May 6, three days after the tot vanished in Praia da Luz.

Correia, 32, said he passed the information to police — but they did not seem interested in abduction theories.

Instead they continued to target Madeleine’s parents Kate and Gerry.

So Correia went to Metodo 3, the Spanish detective agency hired by the McCanns.

Correia told The Sun his source said Madeleine’s body was in a reservoir with a small beach and showers for campers.

After driving across the Algarve he pinpointed it as the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir, some 40 miles from Praia da Luz. He left flowers and a photo of Maddie at the water’s edge.

Breathless Britney sucks

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 05:01:39 GMT

CLIMB back behind your sofas, people – BRITNEY SPEARS has emerged from hiding.

The train wreck keeps thundering into the buffers with her off-the-wall antics.

Britney returned to LA yesterday after just seven hours in Mexico with lover Adnan Ghalib.

And Brit was quickly spotted taking drugs behind the wheel – she was just puffing on an inhaler though.

The wayward star yesterday continued her PR campaign for single Piece Of Me by going out in a pink wig.

In case that wasn’t discreet enough for Brit her jacket had F*** Off Lover Boy scrawled on the back. A subtle single-finger salute to ex-hubby K-FED in my eyes.

Last week I had a lot of sympathy for Brit as she was rushed to hospital. But she clearly has no intention of getting herself back on the straight and narrow.

Even though her world is falling apart, her single is pushing for No1 in tomorrow’s chart. Expect to see her dressing up as a bear after drinking Toilet Duck to secure the top spot.

Lookalike mum: Let us help

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 05:00:48 GMT

THE tearful mum of a tiny lookalike who hopes to play Madeleine McCann in a film insisted last night: “We only want to help.”

American Kris Pfister, whose three-year-old Kelsey Lynn Kudla bears a stunning resemblance to the missing tot, added: “I feel for Maddie’s family — I am on their team.”

Kris, 42, sent out cute Kelsey’s picture to a string of talent agencies after hearing about proposals to make a movie on the vanished girl.

The Sun told yesterday how a London lookalikes agency boss predicted Kelsey could make £9MILLION from the big-screen role.

A McCanns spokesman blasted the “shameless” scheme — calling it “disgraceful, hurtful and offensive”.

Click here for slideshow

But last night divorcee Kris said at her US home: “It’s not my intention to hurt the McCanns or profit from them or Madeleine at all.

“I don’t want to capitalise from their pain.

Praying

“I sent out Kelsey’s picture to talent agencies because so many people say she looks like Madeleine — and she said to me, ‘I want to help bring Maddie back to her mummy and daddy’.

“If we ever make any money out of this I would be happy to donate to the search for Madeleine.

“I feel really bad for the McCanns. I am on their team.

“Because Kelsey looks so much like Madeleine, I feel like this could easily have been my own child. We just want to help find her.”

Medical worker Kris — engaged to Kelsey’s car designer dad Randy Kudla, 37 — says she and her daughter pray for Maddie every night.

And she said little Kelsey begs her daily to check the internet to see if the missing Brit has been found.

Maddie, from Rothley, Leics, vanished last May from her bed in a holiday apartment in the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz.

Parents Gerry and Kate had left her with her two-year-old twin siblings while they ate tapas nearby.

Kris went on: “Since people started telling her she looked like Maddie, Kelsey’s been following the news. She cries when she hears she’s still missing. When we read there may be a documentary or film on the hunt, she said, ‘Mummy, I could play Madeleine. I look just like her’.”

Kris then sent out the girl’s details to lookalike agencies and studio IMG — said to be in talks with McCann representatives about a possible film.

Adams ... agency boss

Adams ... agency boss

One of the agencies was the Juliet Adams Model Agency, run by boss Shona Adams in South London.

Adams, 41, told The Sun: “If the film about Madeleine is ever made, then the world is Kelsey’s oyster. If someone like Steven Spielberg made it, she could make £9million easily — of which I’d take 20 per cent.”

And she said: “It’s not sinister — it’s entertainment.”

But Kris insisted she had NO deal with Adams, who wants Kelsey to do a TV Crimewatch reconstruction.

She said: “I sent this woman an email, but I haven’t even spoken to her.

“I don’t know who Kelsey would sign with if it were to happen. But I know I’d want the McCanns’ blessing.

“I’m not a pushy showbiz mum — Kelsey has always told me that she wanted to be on television or in films.

“But this isn’t about that. The bigger picture is, can we do something that will help Madeleine’s parents?”

Wiping away a tear, Kris added: “People may make a judgement about me, but I’m just praying for that mum and dad. I personally believe their daughter is alive — that someone out there has her.

Uproar ... yesterday's Sun

Uproar ... yesterday's Sun

“I can’t imagine what they are going through. I wouldn’t be able to live without Kelsey. It would destroy me.”

Kris told how passers-by often asked if her daughter was missing Madeleine, who would now be four years old.

Playing with her dolls at home yesterday, Kelsey — who turns four in June, said: “People say that I look like Maddie. She lost her mummy and daddy. I want to help bring her home.”

Agency boss Adams yesterday said she received DEATH threats after her comments. She said from her two-bedroom flat: “I have had threatening phone calls and death threats this morning.”

Police confirmed they were investigating a complaint.

Meanwhile Portuguese cops probing Maddie’s disappearance have applied to keep details of their investigation secret for three more months.

Papers in the case are due to be made public next week. But it is thought likely that Portugal’s Attorney General will agree the extension.

A McCann spokesman said: “We’re disappointed, but not surprised.”

Twin plight cruel beyond belief

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:59:00 GMT

TWINS who unwittingly got married after they were separated at birth were victims of a quirk of fate “cruel beyond belief,” it emerged last night.

The smitten brother and sister — adopted by different families — discovered the shattering truth only after tying the knot.

Against all odds they had met and fallen for each other — neither even knowing they had a twin.

The horrified British couple faced the heartbreak of seeking to have their marriage annulled in the High Court after eventually finding out their love was forbidden.

A judge was forced to rule the union was NEVER valid in law.

Last night the peer who uncovered the astonishing case told The Sun of the twins’ “trauma”.

Lord Alton of Liverpool said: “Anyone hearing this story would feel heartbroken for them.

Trauma

“It’s cruel beyond belief to discover that someone you’re in love with is so closely related to you.”

The twins were not named — but it is known they were separated soon after birth. Each was adopted by different parents — who never told them they had a twin. It was not clear HOW they eventually discovered they were brother and sister.

Experts said they would have been naturally attracted to each other — because they were so alike.

Biological psychologist Dr George Fieldman said: “Their mannerisms — and even their odour — would remind them of themselves.” Psychotherapist Audrey Sandbank, a consultant for the Twins and Multiple Births Association, said: “These twins were together until they were born and may have had a strong connection in the womb.

“When they met they would have felt like soul mates — particularly as like all siblings they shared approximately 50 per cent of their genes.”

Revelation ... Lord Alton

Revelation ... Lord Alton

The organisation’s chief executive Keith Reed said: “This sad situation shows that in the majority of cases it is vital that multiple birth siblings are raised together.”

Pro-life crusader Lord Alton, who used the case to highlight problems with the Human Embryology and Tissues Bill in Parliament, said it showed the need for children to know their biological parents.

Donors who help couples have children lost their right to anonymity in April 2005. A new law gave children the right to identify their genetic parents when they turn 18.

Do you know the twins?
Call the newsdesk on 0207 7824100
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talkback@the-sun.co.uk or text 63000

But there is still no legal obligation for the parents who raised them to tell them the truth about how they were conceived.

Lord Alton said of the twins’ marriage: “We are opening the door to more cases like this one.

“One of the most fundamental things of all is to know who you are. The issue here is about human rights.” He told the Lords the saga of the twins was revealed to him by a High Court judge.

Inevitable

Lord Alton said: “It involved the normal birth of twins who were separated at birth and adopted by separate parents.

“They were never told that they were twins. They met later in life and felt an inevitable attraction.”

Speaking to The Sun last night, he admitted: “I don’t know if the judge was hearing the case himself or if it was simply one he was familiar with.”

The Human Embryology and Tissues Bill is due to be voted on next Tuesday and again on January 21.

It eases the path for lesbian and gay couples to have test-tube babies as well as recognising same- sex couples as parents.

Britney Spears flees US

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:57:01 GMT

Desperate Britney Spears staged a bizarre 48-hour cross-country escape in a dash for freedom.

The troubled star, 26, set up elaborate decoys involving two private jets, dozens of security guards, limos and even police in an attempt to put pursuers off the scent.

Britney - fleeing amid fears her parents want her sectioned - checked into a hotel in Baja, Mexico, at 2pm local time on Wednesday.

With her was her new pal, British snapper Adnan Ghalib. But her aides hoaxed the press into thinking she was flying to New Jersey or Hawaii - and set up minders at both airports.
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At New Jersey, her security men even called in police for back-up as photographers rushed to the scene.

Two blacked-out limos, including one she often uses, sped away.

By 8pm on Thursday she and Adnan, 35, were back in LA. Britney, clutching her dog and with rings under her eyes, was a picture of desperation.

Yet seven hours later the pair were out on the town. She wore a pink wig and a jacket with the crude slogan "F**k Off Lover Boy" and at one stage sucked on an inhaler.

One concerned pal said last night: "She's a woman teetering on the edge of a precipice. She's vulnerable and he's got her all over the place. It appears he's taking advantage."

Last week, Britney was taken to hospital in restraints after holding her two sons hostage in a three-hour custody stand-off with armed police.

50,000 flock to Liverpool for Capital of Culture launch

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:54:13 GMT

EUROPEAN Capital of Culture status returned to UK shores with a spectacular display of fireworks, acrobats and music in Liverpool city centre.

Former Beatle Ringo Starr led the celebrations in his home city- crowned European Capital of Culture 2008 - before a crowd estimated at around 50,000.

As part of a show lasting 40 minutes, Starr performed his new single Liverpool 8 from the top of the city’s landmark the neo-classical St George’s Hall.

He was joined by “the stars of Liverpool” who arrived on stage in a shipping container, symbolising Liverpool’s port heritage, lifted by a construction crane, an emblem of the recent regeneration of the city.

Among those Liverpool-born celebrities taking part were comedian Ken Dodd, The Royale Family’s Sue Johnston and Geoffrey Hughes, from Coronation Street and Keeping Up Appearances whose arrival was accompanied by music from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
St George's Hall on Capital of Culture opening night

The show heralds the start of 12 months of music, art and cultural events expected to boost tourism and generate around £100m for the North West regional economy.

Tonight's events will by followed tomorrow by The Musical, at the 10,600 capacity Echo Arena.
ECHO arena

The 700-strong cast will include Dave Stewart, Echo and the Bunnymen, The Farm, Riuven, The Wombats and Pete Wylie as well as 100 schoolchildren.

Three hundred and fifty other events have also been planned to coincide with the title this year, including the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park, the 9th FINA World Swimming Championships and the UCI Track Cycling Championships.

Liverpool follows cities including Graz, Dublin, Genoa and Lille as the holder of the prestigious title, previously known as the European City of Culture.

Around 1.7 million extra tourists are expected to flock to Merseyside over the next year, spending around £50 million, Liverpool Culture Company said.

In a message to the city, Prime Minister Gordon Brown said: “My personal hopes for this year are, first, that the people of Liverpool and the North West continue to benefit from being Capital of Culture, following the substantial investment in regeneration that has been made over the past few years.

“Second, that Liverpool in 2008 inspires more people from all walks of life to try out new and different cultural activities - things they might not have been interested in before.

“Finally, that the Liverpool cultural institutions that have made this programme possible will continue to thrive as part of the legacy of the year.”

Speaking to the media before the ceremony, Starr said although Liverpool was always rich for the arts, it needed the Capital of Culture title.

He said: “I think it brings it to the attention of the whole world.

“They didn’t have the Tate Modern when I was here. It’s built up over many years and it is all happening now.”

Saying that Scousers retained their unique sense of humour and the city its atmosphere, he said parts of Liverpool were largely unrecognisable to him now.
Fireworks mark the start of Capital of Culture

Commenting about a trip he enjoyed this afternoon to his old school in the Liverpool suburb of Dingle, he said: “If the driver had dropped me off I would never have found my way home. But in my soul I am from Liverpool.”

He added: “I had a great childhood, had great mates and grew up here. But it was damp, and I had TB. I always feel connected to the city.”

Asked if he was likely to reform with Sir Paul McCartney and the Beatle children, the 67-year-old said: “There is no chance of seeing us getting back together with any of our children, there is no chance of us getting back together.

“It’s very difficult now because two of us have gone - and that we will never get back together.”

But the ex-mop top drummer did not rule out the chances of Sir Paul and him hooking up for future work.

He said: “As players there is no reason why we can’t get back together but don’t get excited about the summer (when McCartney plays in Liverpool), he is on his own.”

Madeleine McCann: Parents in secrecy row

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:48:35 GMT

THE parents of missing toddler Madeleine McCann were today said to be “extremely disappointed” Portuguese police have asked for an extension to the secrecy rules around the case.

A spokesman for Liverpool-born Kate McCann and her husband Gerry said it was “almost inhumane” that they were still suspects in their daughter’s disappearance.

Investigators have asked for the tight secrecy re quirements surrounding the case to be extended.

Spokesman Clarence Mitchell said: “This is extremely disappointing. However, it’s not surprising, given that the Portuguese police are continuing to work on the case.

“However, the delay in resolving the case and eliminating Gerry and Kate is now becoming almost inhumane.”

He said the investigation must be refocused on the search for the missing four-year-old.

Sell-out show launches ECHO Arena in style

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:46:20 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S Capital of Culture celebrations arrive at the ECHO Arena tonight.

Liverpool the Musical: the Greatest Story Ever Told launches not just the 2008 programme, but also the new superb 10,600-seater waterfront venue.

A capacity audience will include the lucky winners of an ECHO competition.

Three thousand people entered the contest after we joined forces with United Utilities to offer 60 fantastic prizes of four tickets each.

Excited winners flocked to the ECHO yesterday to pick up their tickets for the sold-out show.

Beatles legend Ringo Starr is heading the line-up in a 100-minute music and film show which also features Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, Echo and the Bunnymen, The Farm, No Fakin DJs, the Wombats and Pete Wylie.

More than 400 singers will be involved, including the Liverpool Welsh Choral Union and Formby High Midnight Voices.

And musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will be stacked seven ranks high on vertical scaffolding with conductor Vasily Petrenko on a scissor lift.

Artistic co-director Nigel Jamieson said: “People won’t have seen anything like this before.

“Until now, with the opening of the ECHO Arena, the city has never had the chance to see a show of this scale.

“The set designer does a lot of rock and roll shows and he said the Rolling Stones would be proud to perform on this stage.”

Around 120 event personnel have put in 15,000 hours to create and build the show.

ACC Liverpool chief executive Bob Prattey said: “The last week has been thoroughly enjoyable for the entire team.

“We’re all relishing being involved in the launch of Capital of Culture and, of course, in the official opening event of ACC Liverpool, comprising the ECHO Arena and the BT Convention Centre.

“The technical demands of the show tonight, and its sheer ambition, mean we’re launching our status as the newest and best entertainment venue in the UK with a real bang and getting to grips with some really complex staging and production requirements.

“It's the kind of work and project we all came into the industry to be involved in and we're loving every minute of it.

“It’s going to be a great night for Liverpool and a great night for ACC Liverpool.”

The show starts at 8.08pm (20:08).

Ringo Starr: Liverpool is in my soul – part of me

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:42:14 GMT

“I REALLY am sentimental . . .” Ringo Starr tells me as he shakes my hand.

And the 67-year-old Beatles legend laughs when I say “Welcome back, la” in my best Scouse.

“La – yeah, how are yer, Liverpool ECHO?”

Ringo has lost none of his lad-next-door charm.

And despite an accent tinged with a US drawl there is every now and then in his phraseology a bit of Thomas the Tank Engine.

“It’s true – I am sentimental and I am still on the journey.”

He was referring to the first solo album he made called Sentimental Journey.

In honour of the Dingle he featured his local pub The Empress, located near his childhood homes in nearby Madryn Street and Admiral Grove on the cover.

To this day the pub – in Liverpool 8 – is a bit of a Starr shrine

Sporting a leather jacket, lilac scarf and some sparkling earrings teetotaller Ringo is the picture of health.

Gone are the rings that turned plain Richard Starkey into Ringo Starr. He gave up bling two years ago.

But he was clearly delighted to be back home.

“I was going to stay in the Hard Days Night Hotel – but it isn’t finished,” he said.

Ringo was still buzzing from a nostalgic trip around his old school.

“ I enjoyed it. Just me – taken around by the headmaster.

“When I first went there it was called Dingle Secondary Modern. Now it’s Shorefields High School.

“When I first went there – there were about five kids.

“Now everything’s changed and it made me realise just how much the city, too, has altered since I Iived here in the 50s and 60s.

“I remember the city was damp and I got TB and I spent some time in Heswall.

“My message to Liverpool is support Capital of Culture – get out there and give it all you’ve got.”

Ringo said he did feel nostalgic when people talked to him about places he played with and without The Beatles.

“Someone mentioned Litherland Town Hall and those memories came back.”

And he said he loved sending a link to New York from St George’s Hall.

“When I was younger they wouldn’t have let me in here,” he added. He said he was focused on the two important launches which have brought him back to Liverpool – the St George’s plateau Capital of Culture launch.

And tonight’s show Liverpool – The Musical at the ECHO Arena.

Ringo was patience personified signing drum skins and Capital of Culture guide books with the simple words WOW – Ringo XX.

He said the seed of his song Liverpool 8 was born four years ago.

But his collaboration with former Eurythmic Dave Stewart took the concept further.
Ringo Starr and Dave Stewart at the Capital of Culture opening

“It is autobiographical. I was thinking about the jobs I’d had such as working for British Rail for six weeks.

“ I started thinking about Butlins and Hamburg and America.

“Meeting Paul and George and John and, of course, Shea stadium. “I am still connected to Liverpool. It’s in my soul.”

Ringo, often cited as being The Beatles most natural actor, said he enjoyed making the Liverpool 8 video but won’t be going back in front of the camera again for a feature film.

“I was going to keep it a secret but Dave has already mentioned our musical so it’s out in the open a joint musical concept.

“It’s an idea we had called Hole In the Fence about symbolically climbing out – from my Liverpool upbringing and Dave’s musical roots in Sunderland.”

Ringo said he was particularly delighted about the last Beatle album called simply Love.

It is the soundtrack for the Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas.

The songs were re-mastered by Beatle producer George Martin and his producer son Giles.

“They did a wonderful job on that. I really mean that. I went to the show in Las Vegas – it was fabulous. You should go.

“Well when I heard my own drumming again all I can say, man, is WOW.

Ringo said he means every word of his lyrics especially: “Liverpool – I never let you down.

“But you know that was Dave’s line. He said to me ‘Ringo, you never did let Liverpool down’ and he was right. I didn’t and I don’t.

Ringo said he still sees Paul from time to time.

“Yeah, we hang out. I am a player and he’s a player. He has his tours and I have mine.

“But it’s cool to meet up and hang out when we can.”

And the one thing he misses about his hometown no matter where he is in the world – at his Monte Carlo home or on tour – is summed up in one word – humour.

But I ask Sentimental Mr Starr one last question

Is Liverpool the fifth Beatle, like, la?

“Oh . . . look there was George Martin, Brian Epstein – God bless him – and people like Neil Aspinall.

“If you carried on like that there would be hundreds of ‘fifth Beatles’.

“There is no fifth Beatle.

“Just put it this way, there were four of us – four Beatles and we were all from Liverpool.”

Thought for the day - January 12
Fireworks mark the start of Capital of Culture

"LIKE many others Scousers I was listening to the announcement made on June 4, 2003.

“The European Capital of Culture for 2008 is . . . LIVERPOOL!”

It felt great; it was good news for Liverpool.

I felt proud of “our” achievement and was optimistic about the future.

I believed that the Picket – our 20 years of work – had contributed in part to securing the award.

I anticipated there would be some real investment put into the place. How wrong I was . . . the building that housed the venue was sold and we lost our jobs. We had a fight to survive.

We fought back and with the help of loads of local people we survived and found new premises.

We will need the support of Liverpool Culture Company, the Arts Council, Liverpool Vision and Northwest Development Agency to help us in this new venture in a new area.

I am confident that with the help and support of our friends the New Picket will not only survive but will become an important part of Liverpool's cultural scene.

Phil Hayes, Picket director

Diary

Jan 12: 4pm and 8pm - Blood Brothers, Liverpool Empire (until Jan 26). 0844 847 2525.

Jan 12: 2pm and 7.30pm - Aladdin, Everyman. 0151-709 4776.

Jan 12: 7.30pm - Flint Street Nativity, Playhouse. 0151-709 4776.

Jan 12: Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 12: Anne Frank exhibition, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 7).

Jan 12: At 25 Metres, FACT (until January 13).

Jan 12: Collected, Cornerstone Gallery, Haigh Street (until Feb 8). 0151-291 3997.

Jan 12: 3pm and 7pm - Pinocchio, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 12: 9.30pm - Dark Grumblings, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 12: 9am-4pm - Clifford Sayer, John Jennings & Dave Donnelly, The People’s Centre Gallery, Mount Pleasant (until Feb 22).

Jan 12: 8.08pm - Capital of Culture opening event, ECHO Arena. Sold out.

Jan 13: 2pm - Favourite Songs of Liverpool, Sefton Park Palm House. 0151-726 2415.

Jan 13: 7.30pm - Beyond the Barricade, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 14: 5pm - Roscoe Lecture on the Holocaust, St George’s Hall. 0151-231 3852.

Jan 14: 2.15pm - Holocaust memorial flower laying, St John’s Gardens.

Capital of Culture launch: It's looking great for 08

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:40:13 GMT

THE people of Liverpool won Capital of Culture for the city.

And last night they came out in their thousands to celebrate as the year kicked off with an explosion of light, music and magic.

A crowd to rival the one which welcomed the European Cup-winning Liverpool FC team home in 2005 packed Lime Street

Police estimated 38,000 people watched the People’s Opening outside St George’s Hall.

But others put the figure closer to 50,000.

The sea of faces stretched down Lime Street and beyond – whole families ranging from toddlers to grandparents.

Children, choirs, aerial acrobats, wall walkers, rooftop musicians from the Urban Strawberry Lunch arts organisation together with Liverpool band the Wombats all took part in the performance.

The 40-minute show – which started at 8.08pm (20:08) – ended with Beatle legend Ringo Starr performing his new song Liverpool 8 on top of St George’s Hall.

Earlier a container branded “Precious Cargo” was lowered to St George’s Plateau by crane.

Among the Liverpool artists, sportsmen, actors and musicians to emerge were David Morrissey, Paul and Joe McGann, Alison Steadman, John Conteh, Liz McClarnon, Marc Almond, Les Dennis, Peter Reid and hairdresser Andrew Collinge.

David Morrissey said: “I thought it was a great launch and went really well.

“My brother in the crowd said it was just fantastic the way they lit the architecture.”

Peter Hooton, from The Farm, said: “Liverpool as a city just looked absolutely great, it looked like Rome.

“The crowd were unbelievable. We were on stage looking out and there had to be 50,000 people there, it was absolutely rammed.

“There was a great reaction from the crowd.”

Atomic Kitten Liz McClarnon admitted she cried with emotion.

She said: “Everyone had to be here because everyone is so proud to be Capital of Culture and we all know we deserve it.”

The 40-minute show was devised by artistic director Nigel Jamieson and Jayne Casey and put together by John Wassell and Mark Murphy of Walk the Plank.

Crowds started to arrive more than two hours before the show began on what was a crisp and clear winter’s evening.
Fireworks mark the start of Capital of Culture

Liverpudlian Elisa Szabo, 39, lives in China and said she feared she would miss the whole of Capital of Culture.

She said: “It’s brilliant to see this before I go back.”

Dave and Paula Preston were over from Auckland in New Zealand visiting friends.

Mr Preston, 59, originally from Liverpool, said: “We wanted to be here as this isn’t going to happen again.”

Gillian Kane, from Walton, was with her three children Dean, 14, James, 11 and five-year-old Eden.

The 38-year-old said: “It’s once-in-a-lifetime that it’s going to happen and I wanted to bring the kids.

“It’s an education for them and they’re having a great time. I just wish my dad could have come to see Ringo, but he’s had to work.”

Tony and Linda Walker, of West Derby, brought six-year-old Erin and Kiera, nine.

Linda said: “We’re Scousers and proud of it.

“We thought the atmosphere was electric. It was breath-taking.”
St George's Hall on Capital of Culture opening night

And Julie Cummings, from Fazakerley, said: “We loved every minute of it. Liverpool can really put on a show. We deserve this.”

One of the best vantage points was from student flats opposite St George’s Hall.

Both members of the media and the public knocked on students’ doors asking to watch from their windows.

It is believed one American TV company paid £6,000 to hire out a flat to film the extravaganza.

Despite the large numbers of people Merseyside police said the evening mostly passed off peacefully.

REVIEW: The People’s Opening, St George’s Hall
Joe Riley

IT was a night to remember.
St George's Hall on Capital of Culture opening night

Ringo in the sky with diamonds – or at least an cluster of them in his left ear – singing Liverpool’s praises from the rooftop of St George’s Hall.

The show with a cast of hundreds and audience of tens of thousands was a technical tour de force.

So much for the old joke that reviewers only mention the scenery when the play’s no good.

In this case the fabric of the city was spectacularly centre stage, with floodlit musicians playing from every rooftop surrounding St George’s Plateau and aerial acrobats suspended from cranes.

Then there was a cavalcade of Liverpool stars from TV, stage and screen emerging from stacked shipping containers – quite happy to settle for walk-on parts as a testament of sheer pride in their city.

For the dozens of young people who joined the parade of honour or sang their hearts out in choirs, it was a story to eventually tell their children and their children’s children. Something unique to remember, like how their parents and grandparents recall what they were doing the night man landed on the moon.

This was the night Liverpool landed firmly back on its feet, presenting once again – in the wake of the Royal Variety Show and the televised Liverpool Nativity – another greatly positive image as “the centre of the creative universe”.

A day which started under the watch of coast-to-coast American TV culminated with a bravura display of highly sophisticated and choreographed splendour seen by millions more on television screens worldwide.

Beneath the friendly blitz of clusters of fireworks, and amid the pounding of music, the stars equal to any on stage were the crowds themselves: cheering, clapping and smiling through what was, thankfully, a dry evening that defied the gloomier forecast of rain.

The very best ventures of Capital of Culture will be, like this opening ceremony, the ones which involve as many people as possible.

The very start of that process – The People’s Opening – rightly put the spotlight on the true winners of this great destination prize.

Scousers themselves, who last night turned out in droves to express faith in themselves and the place they call home.

Ringo – now down to just one ring . . . on his wedding finger – may serve as a reminder of the greatest and most successful showbusiness act of all time.

But from today Liverpool’s main concern has to be its future.

Liverpool gets the party started

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:36:34 GMT

No-one was sure of the line-up and the running order was shrouded in secrecy.

But people from across Merseyside and the world turned out in their thousands for the opening show to kick-start Liverpool's year as European Capital of Culture.

The cold weather did not put people off and coats, hats and scarves were worn - along with flashing neon bunny ears.

Hours before the opening, thousands were already crowding into the city centre's St George's Plateau to ensure a good spot in front of the huge stage.

It began with the master of ceremonies announcing that "Liverpool was, is and always will be nothing less than the centre of the creative universe".

As 2008 lit the sky in a firework on top of St George's Hall acrobats dressed as workers, symbolising the city's recent regeneration, ushered in a container of precious cargo which boasted a selection of the city's artistic community.

The electricity in the atmosphere was catching and people were turning round and casting a nervous grin at their neighbour or to ask if they had any idea about what was in the show.

One thing Scousers know how to do, is how to throw a party
Vicki Nicholson, from Wavertree

But they all agreed that whatever they were about to see they would not miss it.

Carol Gilmartin, 63, works in Boots in Huyton. She said: "I wouldn't miss it for the world.

"Customers were coming in the shop today and talking about it. I told the other girls at work that I'd definitely be down - it's excellent."

Vicki Nicholson, from Wavertree Liverpool, said: "One thing Scousers know how to do, is how to throw a party."

She was joined by boyfriend John Gerrard and 11-year-old daughter Amy.

"We came down early to get a good spot, we really wanted to see Ringo but this whole thing is brilliant and it's got to be good for the city.

"We were in Cork for their culture party in 2005 and this tops it, but we would say that." What they were treated to was a musical extravaganza.

Ringo stars

A lone guitarist played from the summit of the Wellington Column

Ringo Starr opened the show with a drum solo which was met with a roar of appreciation by the crowd.

Later on he also whipped up the frenzied crowd with his new single Liverpool 8.

In between, community choirs serenaded and soothed the crowd before Liverpool chart sensation The Wombats stirred the masses again with an energetic version of their single Let's Dance to Joy Division.

Tracey Hotty, 25, from Rhyl, north Wales, was in Liverpool on a shopping trip and had not planned on coming but was glad she did.

Sinead and Haroon
Roof-top gigs and stuff and people on wires the lights everything - it's quality
Haroon, from Speke, Liverpool

"The atmosphere's infecting everyone. It's so exciting. Everyone was crowing around talking and laughing so we thought we'd stay on.

"I really love the city, it's sound."

For some people it was about more than just the show.

Steven Moonie, 36, from Mossley Hill, Liverpool, brought his nine-year-old daughter Sophie along.

"I want to show her what Liverpool is all about, what the city means. She should know her heritage."

Sinead, 17, from Huyton and boyfriend Haroon, 23, were there to watch her cousin sing in one of the choirs.

Haroon said he was initially sceptical but had changed his mind.

"Roof-top gigs and stuff and people on wires the lights everything - it's quality. The city has never seen anything like this before."

There were aerial artists, pyrotechnics, video displays and performers new and a little older.

Pair injured in double shooting

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:35:53 GMT

Two men have been injured in a double shooting in Liverpool.

The pair, aged 18 and 21, were hurt when shots were fired in the Norris Green area of the city on Friday night.

Both were taken to hospital for treatment to injuries described as not life-threatening but are refusing to co-operate with police inquiries.

The shooting happened on Carr Lane, which has been cordoned off for a forensic examination of the scene to be carried out on Saturday.

House-to-house enquiries will also take place and police are carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area to reassure residents.

McCann fury at 'Maddie' for hire

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 08:09:34 GMT

THE boss of a lookalike agency who hopes to make a fortune out of a little Madeleine McCann double said last night: “It’s not sinister – it’s entertainment.”

Shona Adams reckons three-year-old Kelsey Lynn Kudla’s similarity to missing Maddie could earn her £9MILLION for starring in a proposed feature film about the vanished tot.

And Adams is ready to take a 20 per cent cut. The 41-year-old, who runs London’s Juliet Adams Model Agency, said: “If the film about Madeleine is ever made, then the world is Kelsey’s oyster.

“If someone like Steven Spielberg made it, she could make £9million easily – of which I’d take 20 per cent. She will become a name in her own right and make it as a child model or actress because she’s got her foot in the door.

Agency boss ... Shona Adams holds snap of Maddie and lookalike

Agency boss ... Shona Adams holds snap of Maddie and lookalike

“And from there, her earning potential is limitless. It’s not sinister. And if the McCanns are upset, there’s nothing they can do because it’s a democracy.

“I wouldn’t back away from it because, if a film is being made, then it’s entertainment.”

Parents Kate and Gerry McCann, both 39-year-old doctors from Rothley, Leics, have denied reports that a movie is to be put into production about their daughter, who would now be four.

‘ This is a shameless money-making scheme... her actions are disgraceful, hurtful and offensive ’

But their spokesman Clarence Mitchell has refused to rule it out – and admits money is needed to continue their privately funded search for Maddie, who vanished on holiday in Portugal last May.

Adams became aware of Kelsey’s resemblance to Maddie after the innocent girl’s mum contacted her website from her US home.

Kris Pfister said she had heard of the movie plan – and that shoppers had stopped her daughter seven times in one day to point out her likeness to Maddie.

Real Maddie ... vanished in May

Real Maddie ... vanished in May

Incredibly Adams says a staggering 120 potential doubles have been sent to her from wannabe Maddie lookalikes worldwide.

She said outside her messy two-bed flat in a high-rise block in South London: “I thought Kelsey was a great lookalike, that’s why I took her on. We’d like her to do a Crimewatch reconstruction.

“She’d probably only get the minimum rate but it would get her exposure and have potential to launch her into bigger things.”

Divorced mum-of-one Adams also claimed Kelsey would HELP the McCanns – by showing how Maddie would develop with age.

Asked how she felt about profiting from a girl who may already be dead, Adams said: “Let’s hope she’s not. Let’s find Maddie.”
Click here to find out more!

And asked how Kate McCann might feel about her plans, she admitted: “It’s sad.” But she added: “If a film is going out, it can go out with or without their blessing – that’s how it has to be.

Taste

“They know they’ve been in the limelight and have got publicity.

“I wouldn’t put Kelsey in a position of doing anything bad taste. If there was legislation against it, that’d be different. But there isn’t.”

Other kids on the agency’s website include Harry Potter lookalikes, mini David Beckhams and a schoolgirl Coleen McLoughlin.

There is also a mini England football team and kids who look like golf superstar Tiger Woods.

The website offers youngsters for “events”, TV commercials, films, music videos “and more”.

Upset ... parents Gerry and Kate

Upset ... parents Gerry and Kate

Mum Kris told last night of Kelsey’s “emotional bond” with Maddie. She said: “When we heard a film might be made, Kelsey said, ‘Mommy, I could play Madeleine’.

“Every night she prays for Maddie. This is not about us using the situation, we really want to help. If a documentary or film could do anything, it’s well worth it.”

But Kris added: “I’ve contacted a number of agencies, but we don’t have a deal with any of them.”

McCann spokesman Clarence Mitchell called Adams’ actions “disgraceful, hurtful and offensive”. He said: “This is a shameless money-making scheme.

“This woman and her agency have made no effort to seek permission from us. If she had, she would have been refused.”

Madeleine McCann's grandfather pleads: Don't forget about Maddie

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 08:04:34 GMT

MADELEINE McCann’s grandfather today makes a heartfelt plea for the police, public and media to refocus their attentions on “the most important story” ... the search for the missing four-year-old.

Brian Healy, 68, from Allerton, the father of Kate McCann, believes his beloved grandchild, who has not been seen for 253 days, is in danger of being overlooked amid the daily torrent of spurious stories, speculation and wild rumours.

He also said there is so much he is looking forward to doing with his first grandchild, like running through the water fountains in Liverpool’s Williamson Square.

And he pays tribute to the warmhearted people of Liverpool and thanks them for their constant support and good wishes.

Brian says: “There has been so much that has been said and written, much of it untrue and hurtful, but so often it seems to me as if the only really important person in all this has been forgotten – and that’s Madeleine.

“Finding Madeleine should be at the forefront of everyone’s minds – everything else takes the attention away from this and wastes so much time.”

Kate and Gerry McCann have been the subject of much negative publicity since they were named as suspects by the Portuguese police (Polícia Judiciária) last September.

Many unfounded stories have been picked up by the British press from Portuguese papers, but Brian says he was heartened to read an opinion piece which appeared in the leading Lisbon newspaper Diaro de Noticias. It was written by journalist João Miguel Tavares and published on December 11.

The columnist talked of the need for the media in Portugal to “make a serious analysis of its role in the tragedy and activate mechanisms to stop it from behaving again as a ping-pong table throwing too many lies and too little information”.

He also wrote that it was now “as likely that the case will be solved as penguins starting to fly” and referred to the “it will go away” attitude that people in Portugal have, adding: “I suppose this is now also the strategy of the detectives leading this case – let’s keep quiet and soon nobody will remember. And taking into account the way Maddie is being taken away from the papers the tactic seems good. In the PJ (Polícia Judiciária) all they dream about now is the silence of the archives.”

Brian Healy, who believes silence and inactivity are Madeleine’s greatest enemies, says: “There have been some good, positive and helpful stories written about the search for Madeleine, but it seems to be the more sensational and negative stories which get the main headlines. And there have been so many lies written. People say not to read the papers, but you can’t avoid seeing them.

“A lot of people will end up having to hang their heads in shame. I have got so mad reading some of the lies about Kate that I’ve rung up the newspapers concerned, but it doesn’t seem to do any good.

“Some people don’t seem to want to know about the real Kate. She is such a warm and caring person, as well as being intelligent. But you can’t win because people say ‘He would say that, he’s her father.’ But I would love them to be able to spend just one hour in Kate’s company – and I would have loved them to have been able to spend just one hour with Kate, Gerry, Madeleine and the twins.

“For me, there is one photograph which sums up Kate’s family - it’s the black and white photograph which we have on our wall of the five of them. It’s just such a beautiful photograph and it tells its own story.”

Brian adds: “As Madeleine’s grandfather, there are so many things I long to do – for example, I’d love to be able to run through the water fountains with her in Williamson Square.”

Desperate for a breakthrough in the search for Madeleine, but frustrated at the lack of any positive news from Portugal, Brian says: “I’ve never felt so helpless in my life.”

Despite the negativity from various quarters, Brian, and Kate’s mum, Susan, have been bowled over by the response from strangers on the streets of their and Kate’s home city.

Brian says: “We want to thank everyone in Liverpool for their fantastic support and their good wishes – they have been great. We have had so many hugs from people who approach us when we’re out shopping.

“Sue was in town on Saturday and she was getting hugged all the time. These people care about Madeleine and they know what the real story is – that Madeleine has been taken and needs to be found and brought back to her family as quickly as possible.”

For more information about the campaign to find Madeleine McCann, log on to www.findmadeleine.com

300 million set to tune into Liverpool’s 08 launch

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 08:03:39 GMT

A GLOBAL audience of between 200m and 300m is expected to tune in to watch Liverpool’s £2m opening weekend to the start of European Capital of Culture celebrations.

Last night, Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the city’s “fantastic” year-long programme was “the perfect opportunity to showcase the contribution that Liverpool makes to our world-class cultural reputation”.

“This is a city steeped in culture – and very much alive to it. And now is the perfect opportunity to show that to the world,” he said.

Ringo Starr, the biggest name to be involved in weekend, was today back in the city and said: "It's great to be back."

Britain’s biggest stage – 1km in area – has been assembled on St George’s Plateau for tonight’s People’s Opening.

More than 200 worldwide journalists will report on tonight’s spectacular and tomorrow’s Liverpool the Musical at the Echo Arena, Liverpool.

Neither event will be broadcast live in their entirety, but BBC News 24 and Sky News are expected to dedicate heavy coverage to tonight’s show, and also report on Saturday’s event.

AMERICAN network CBS will host its breakfast show from Liverpool as will BBC Radio Five Live.

ITN, Channel Four News, and CNN will also be joined by media organisations from across the globe, including China.

The Mersey Partnership (TMP), the region’s tourist and inward investment body, last night said it was impossible to quantify the value of this type of media interest, but it was a vital part of getting across the message that Liverpool and the region is among the world’s must-see destinations.

Last night, council leader Cllr Warren Bradley said the weekend was a “mind-blowing” start to the year.

“I am proud as punch with what we have achieved so far.

“It’s going to be a weekend that a lot of people will remember for a very long time and one which sends out a powerful, positive message about our amazing city.”

Tonight, two songs will be premiered at the show, which kicks off at 20.08, one by Ringo Starr and Dave Stewart, and one by up-and-coming Liverpool band The Wombats.

Both will be released as singles on Monday, January 14.

The production, which pays homage to Liverpool’s recent regeneration, will feature 150ft and 250ft cranes, forklifts, containers, giant screens, and 50km of cable.

One of the highlights is expected to be when former Beatle Ringo Starr takes to the roof of St George’s Hall.

Between 20,000 and 30,000 people are expected to attend and organisers have urged people to use public transport and leave plenty of time to get to the gig.

More than 600 people including 20 guitarists, choirs and schoolchildren and 40 aerial performers will be taking part in the 40-minute show.

Tomorrow’s 90-minute extravaganza features Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in collaboration with No Fakin DJs, Ringo Starr, Echo and The Bunnymen, The Farm, Riuven, The Wombats, Pete Wylie, and Dave Stewart.

Starting at 20.08, it will be the official opening of the Echo Arena, Liverpool and includes a cast of 700 – the show is sold out.

The BBC Culture Show will broadcast a 45-minute programme on the opening weekend at 10.45pm on Sunday.

The complexity of the media operation was exemplified in a row that broke out behind the scenes yesterday between the BBC and the Liverpool Culture Company over the level of the Corporation’s coverage.

Culture supremo Phil Redmond blamed the BBC’s unwillingness to commit to broadcast the shows live last year. But BBC sources claimed the Culture Company had failed to get the correct legal clearance from performing artists for the extended parts of the events to be screened live.

Redmond said full performance clearance for the Saturday show, in particular, was not sought because of its cost in the absence of a broadcaster willing to pay for broadcast rights.

He said all issues had been resolved and the weekend would be a tremendous success.

A BBC spokesman said: “The contractual issues regarding the broadcast of the Capital of Culture opening events have now been resolved.

“There are no restrictions on the BBC, or any other broadcaster, showing the launch events as part of their normal news coverage.”

Redmond added: “In all, we are looking at a global audience of between 200m and 300m.” Tens of thousands of people will also enjoy both shows live in person.

The cost of the weekend has been put at around £2m by the Culture Company, which Redmond said was good value for money considering the exposure that the events would bring.

“I think it’s going to be really good, we have been fretting round making sure everything is OK and I think it will be.”

The Prime Minister’s message was also one of confidence in the success of the city. “My personal hopes for this year are: first, that people of Liverpool and the North West continue to benefit from being a Capital of Culture, following the substantial investment in regeneration that has been made over the past few years.

“Second, that Liverpool in 2008 inspires more people from all walks of life to try out new and different cultural activities – things they might not have been interested in before.

“Finally, that the Liverpool cultural institutions that have made this programme possible will continue to thrive as part of the legacy of the year.”

Cllr Bradley added: “The media interest in Capital of Culture has been absolutely phenomenal. We have got dozens of TV film crews from the UK and around the world and there are more than 200 print and broadcast journa-lists here to tell the story of Liverpool's rebirth.

“Major broadcasters such as the BBC and CBS will be beaming pictures of the launch around the globe.”

Martin King, director of tourism at TMP said Liverpool really was “walking a world stage this weekend”.

“It’s almost impossible to quantify the value of this type of media interest. We see it as a vital part of getting across the message that Liverpool City Region really is up there among the world’s must-see destinations – not just in 2008 European Capital of Culture.

“Many of the international media are already saying they will be back for future events this year such as the Grand National, the Tall Ships, the Open at Royal Birkdale and the MTV Awards.

“Liverpool stands to top the bill for the entire year.”

ADDITIONAL reporting: David Charters, Mike Chapple and Samantha Parker.

You're the heroes of Capital of Culture

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:57:07 GMT

We've been out and about in the city filming the real heroes of Capital of Culture - you. Watch our video and download the backing track - Pete Wylie's Heart as Big as Liverpool, with 20p from every £1 going to the Liverpool Unites fund. You can download Pete Wylie's Heart as big as Liverpool at www.wahstores.co.uk Downloads cost £1 with 20p going to the Liverpool Unites fund.

Stop gangs to halt gun crime rise

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:55:12 GMT

STOPPING young people joining gangs is the key to halting gun crime in Liverpool, the home secretary said on a visit to the city yesterday.

Jacqui Smith MP spoke out as she visited an education centre and primary school in the heart of Croxteth.

She also held a private meeting with the parents of 11-year-old Rhys Jones, who was shot dead as he walked home through Croxteth Park in August last year.

After meeting young adults taking a range of courses at the Alt Valley skills centre and children at neighbouring Croxteth primary school, Ms Smith praised efforts to stop youngsters getting involved in gangs.

She said: “I have met people today who previously might have engaged with gangs, but turned away and chose the alternative.

“We need to make sure we catch people and we need to make sure we stop people going into gun crime in the first place. We need to find alternatives for young people.”

She also praised a major police blitz on gun gangs in north Liverpool, involving dawn raids just hours ahead of her visit to the city.

Ms Smith said: “There have been arrests and guns recovered, and people who have been taken off the street.

“It sends a message to the community that the people who need to fear are the criminals.”

Ms Smith reiterated her support for the ECHO’s Liverpool Unites campaign.

She said: “It is precisely the message we are talking about. All of us need to unite to beat the criminals.”

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley expressed his dismay after Ms Smith declined an invitation to meet him.

He said: “I think it is essential that we work on a cross-party basis at local and national level if we are to tackle serious issues like anti-social behaviour and gang and gun crime.”

Culture cake gets a slice of the action

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:53:40 GMT

FOOTBALL heroes Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard made a double take when they were invited to the unveiling of a Capital of Culture cake.

They found their faces staring back at them – along with Mikel Arteta and Andy Johnson of Everton.

The cake, which took David MacCarfraeon of David’s Cakes of Distinction in Crosby 500 hours to make, is a present to the city of Liverpool for 2008.

The lord mayor, Cllr Paul Clark, unveiled the cake to gasps of admiration.

It will be auctioned on eBay for three months. The cake was signed by Carragher, and the Everton team will pop their autographs on it at a later date.

All money raised from the auction will go to Liverpool based charity Give a Child a Chance.

08 winning anthem is the pool of life

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:52:01 GMT

A SONG celebrating The Pool Of Life was today declared Liverpool’s new anthem for Capital of Culture.

The winning entry in the Song For Liverpool contest, part of the Open Culture initiative, was penned by city-born songwriting team Carl Davis, Kenny O’Connell and Matt Shaw.

Sung by Phill Jones, The Pool Of Life won half of the 44,000 votes cast.

The Radio City competition was backed by the ECHO, our sister paper the Daily Post and Radio Merseyside.

The Pool Of Life will now play on Radio City 96.7, Magic 1548 and Radio Merseyside and will be professionally recorded at Waterloo-based Mersey-sound Studios.

Radio City station manager Richard Maddock said: “It was an incredibly successful project.

“Not only did we have hundreds of entries whose quality was superb, we also had an amazing 44,395 votes for the final shortlisted songs in just one week – the biggest reaction to any vote we have ever done.”

Co-writer Mr Davis, from Crosby, said: “Kenny, Matt and I have written songs together over the years.

“I came up with the title, immediately contacted the lads and said we should get together and write it – and here we are now.

“All three of us are born and bred in the city and it’s such an honour to have our song chosen to represent Liverpool in Capital of Culture year.”

The other finalists were Danny Guy with Liverpool (World In One City); Tony Flynn’s Liverpool Home; Steve Connolly with The World In One City, and City Of Wings by Steve Mason.

Open Culture was launched by Phil Redmond in June last year with the backing of Merseyside’s media organisations. It is aimed at giving Liverpudlians the chance to take part in the 2008 celebrations.

The first project under the Open Culture umbrella was the Liverpool Saga, an 800-line poem created by Radio Merseyside from thousands of lines of verse sent in by listeners and ECHO readers.

Our sister paper the Daily Post is creating a “map” of Liverpool, and the ECHO will launch a bench design competition later this month.

Read more about Merseysound Studios in the ECHO’s business pages on Monday.

Thought for the day - January 11

ALTHOUGH I no longer live in the city, I still regard Liverpool as my home and I always will.

Liverpool is where I work and when I’m not in the city centre I am inevitably listening to BBC Radio Merseyside, so the spirit of the place is never far away!

It’s a place that is as infuriating as it is enjoyable, with a pride and a passion that is instantly recognisable. It is a place of myths and legends, poets and prophets, gourmets and gobs****s…

What you see is what you get, and a bit more, or a bit less, depending on what time of day it is.

I loved the 2007 exhibition at the Tate - ‘Liverpool is the Creative Centre of the Universe’ but how can you prove such a claim?

Of course you can’t, but the myth’s the important thing, stupid.

For many Scousers, Liverpool is a Celtic city with more in common with Dublin, Glasgow and Belfast than the English conurbations.

Equally there are some who would disagree, pointing out its role in the Victorian era.

“DISCUSS” (as they used to say at school)…or better still, move on and build the Liverpool of the future; a vibrant city that is bold, brash and brimming with humanity to all-comers.

Let’s keep the creative juices flowing and encourage our children to create in the arts, sport and business and never forget, “Liverpool is the Creative Centre of the Universe”, honest.

Mick Ord, radio boss

Diary

Jan 11: 7.30pm - Aladdin, Everyman (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 11: 7.30pm - Flint Street Nativity, Playhouse (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 11: Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 11: Anne Frank exhibition, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 8).

Jan 11: At 25 Metres, FACT (until January 13).

Jan 11: 7pm - Pinocchio, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 11: 9.30pm - Dark Grumblings, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 11: 8.08pm - Capital of Culture People’s Opening, St George’s Plateau.

Jan 12: 9am-4pm - Clifford Sayer, John Jennings & Dave Donnelly, The People’s Centre Gallery, Mount Pleasant (until Feb 22).

Jan 12: 8.08pm - Capital of Culture opening event, ECHO Arena. Sold out.

Jan 13: 2pm - Favourite Songs of Liverpool, Sefton Park Palm House. 0151-726 2415.

Jan 13: 7.30pm - Beyond the Barricade, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 14: 5pm - Roscoe Lecture on the Holocaust, St George’s Hall. 0151-231 3852.

Jan 14: 2.15pm - Holocaust memorial flower laying, St John’s Gardens.

Jan 15: 7pm - Author John Minnion talks about his book Hitler’s List, Childwall Library. 0151-722 3214.

Jan 15: 7.30pm - Madonna and Me, Actor’s Studio, Seel Street (until Feb 2). 0151-709 9034.

Jan 15: Stanley Spencer, Tate Liverpool (until April 27). 0151 702 7400.

Jan 16: Ensemble 10/10, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 17: Lunchtime talk on Liverpool in World War II, St George’s Hall. 0151-225 6909.

Jan 17: Beatles Hard Day’s Night, Central Library (until Feb 15)

20 in court after city drug raids

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:50:40 GMT

TWENTY people were appearing in court today charged with drugs and money laundering offences after dawn gang-busting raids by police in Liverpool.

The operations targeted suspected gang members in Croxteth and Norris Green believed to be responsible for the supply of drugs.

The raids on 31 addresses yesterday came after 12 months of undercover surveillance.

The 20 people charged were appearing at Liverpool magistrates.

They are: Bridget Duffy, 43, of Standard Road, Croxteth –15 counts of supplying class A drugs and one charge of money laundering; Edward Duffy, 48, of the same address – two counts of supplying class A drugs and one charge of money laundering.

Amanda Wells, 35, of Guilsted Road, Norris Green – 15 counts of supplying class A drugs; Phillip White, 42, of Sovereign Road, Croxteth – 26 counts of supplying class A drugs.

Anthony Grace snr, 46, of Stalisfield Place, Norris Green, and Anthony Grace jnr, 24, of Braybrooke Road, Norris Green – both charged with eight counts of supplying class A drugs.

Paul Hollands, 20, of Portlemouth Road, Croxteth, was charged with 58 counts of supplying class A drugs; James Killeen, 20, of Flemington Avenue, Norris Green – 10 charges of supplying class A drugs and two charges of possession with intent to supply.

Michael McCormick, 38, of Utting Avenue, Norris Green – two charges of supplying class A drugs; Catherine McGarry, 24, of Hebden Road, Croxteth – one charge of supplying class A drugs; Jamie Thomas Cooney, 56, of Stalisfied Avenue, Norris Green – 10 counts of supplying a class A drug and two counts of possession with intent to supply; David Edward White, 45, of Riveria Drive, Croxteth – three counts of supplying a class A drug; Gerard Garrity, 41, of Sceptre Road, Croxteth, – four counts of supplying a class A drug; Nadine Fernando, 37, of Fairfax Road, Norris Green – six counts of supplying a class A drug; Ben Sacker, 22, of Fieldton Road, Croxteth – 18 counts of supplying a class A drug;

Stephen Anthony Croxhall, 25, of Stonedale Crescent, Croxteth – 15 counts of supplying a class A drug; Stephen James Burns, 37, of Dymoke Road, Croxteth – 10 counts of supplying a class A drug; Mark Rae, 18, of Willow Way, Croxteth, charged with possession of a controlled drug; Karen Jones, 47, of Abbotsford Road, Norris Green, charged with possession of a controlled drug.

A 17-year-old youth, who cannot be named, was also charged with two counts of supplying class A drugs.

Four people are still being questioned and five others held in the raids have been released on police bail.

Bulgaria offers hope to Michael Shields

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:46:26 GMT

THE case against jailed Liverpool fan Michael Shields could be reopened in Bulgaria, campaigners said today.

Lawyers acting on behalf of the 21-year-old are preparing a dossier of new evidence, which the Bulgarian government has not ruled out investigating.

The news comes after Bulgaria’s president Georgi Parvanov told British MEP Arlene McCarthy in a meeting yesterday that he would not pardon the student from Edge Hill.

But today, Mrs McCarthy said the president also told her that the case can be reopened in Bulgaria if they are presented with “sufficient new evidence”.

The dossier will include signed statements confirming Michael did not attack barman Martin Georgiev, the results of a lie-detector test which Michael passed, and the testimony of two men present when Mr Georgiev was attacked.

Also included are details of an eye-witness from Liverpool, who is willing to fly to Bulgaria and testify that Michael is not guilty.

Mrs McCarthy said: “I was given full assurance by the president’s legal advisers on the procedure for reopening the case, which I will discuss with Michael’s family and lawyer.

“The legal advisers pointed out that we may prefer the chance to get the case re-opened, because if they had pardoned Michael, he still would have been thought to be guilty.

“Now we have the chance to properly clear his name and we will go about it vigorously. I made it very clear to President Parvanov that this case is not going to go away.”

Mrs McCarthy also asked the Bulgarian president why DNA and forensic evidence was not used by the prosecution against Michael, and why Bulgarian police allowed another Liverpool man accused of attacking Mr Georgiev to return home.

Liverpool city Labour leader Joe Anderson, a spokesman for the Shields family, said the outcome of the meeting was as they expected.

He said: “The president confirmed what we always knew, which was that the judicial result as it is in Bulgaria will stand for the time being.

“However, we do have hope, in that he reiterated the fact that a mechanism does exist for Michael to be pardoned under British law, and he agreed to look at our evidence.”

Michael, accused of attacking Mr Georgiev after the 2005 Champions League final, was transferred to Britain in November 2006 to serve the remainder of his 10-year sentence.

The campaign has since focused its attention on winning over the British government, in a bid to have the conviction pardoned in this country at least.

Buoyed by November’s successful lie detector test result, the group plans to meet justice secretary Jack Straw in the next few weeks.

Michael’s MP Louise Ellman, who is fronting the campaign at Westminster, said: “We are still seeking foreign office support to ask for a pardon.”

Ringo stars in 08 role for Culture People's Opening event

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:45:42 GMT

RINGO Starr arrived in Liverpool today, his first public visit to the city in almost two decades.

The former Beatle will headline the free Capital of Culture People’s Opening outside St George’s Hall tonight.

Tomorrow, he will perform in the spectacular Liverpool The Musical: The Greatest Story Ever Told at the ECHO Arena, alongside Dave Stewart, Echo And The Bunnymen, Pete Wylie, the RLPO and 400 singers.

The last time the 67-year-old drummer performed in Liverpool was at the Empire Theatre in 1992.

Speaking exclusively to the ECHO last month, he said he was looking forward to returning to headline the 2008 opening events.

He said: “The good thing about it is, because the city’s Capital of Culture, they will get into lots of other situations to present Liverpool in an incredible light.”

The drummer’s involvement led to American TV network giant CBS broadcasting its two-hour breakfast show from Liverpool today to viewers across the USA.

The 40-minute People’s Opening will take place at St George’s Plateau, starting at 8.08pm (20:08) and will include Liverpool band The Wombats, aerial performers, hundreds of schoolchildren, air cannons, fireworks and guitarists.
St George's Hall set for Culture launch

Ringo will perform his new single Liverpool 8, and today we print the song’s lyrics so readers attending the event can sing along.

It chronicles Ringo’s early working life, from his teenage years as a sailor and factory hand, to his time in Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, the red lights of Hamburg, and becoming a Beatle.

It mentions the Shea Stadium concert in New York in 1966 and features the lyrics: “When I look back, it was cool for those four boys from Liverpool.”

The choir performing at the event is assembled from Liverpool Philharmonic Community Gospel Choir, One Voice Community Choir, Accord Community Gospel Choir, Sound Central Community Singers, Formby High Midnight Voices and One Heart Singers.

Pupils from Pleasant Street primary in Toxteth, and St Christopher’s primary in Speke,Š will also take part.

Culture Company acting chief executive Kris Donaldson said: “This weekend will see celebrations on an unprecedented scale, with two amazing events featuring a cast of hundreds.

“Not only will the opening of 2008 be a fantastic opportunity for the people of Liverpool to celebrate Capital of Culture, it will also showcase the city on the world stage.”

Council leader Warren Bradley added: “After five years of hard work we are finally at the official start of 2008.
Leader of Liverpool City Council, Cllr Warren Bradley

“It is an extremely exciting time for the whole city, and the beginning of what promises to be an amazing year of cultural celebrations.”

People attending tonight’s opening are being advised to use public transport where possible.

Car parks in the surrounding area will be open, but organisers say several city centre roads radiating out from Lime Street will be progressively closed off, depending on the number of people who attend the event.

Motorists are warned access to car parks could then be blocked off, and bus routes could also be diverted as a result.

The People’s Opening and the Saturday ceremony at the ECHO Arena begin a year-long programme of more than 350 events, many of which will be free.

Bring a torch to show the city in a good light for world’s media
St George's Hall set for Culture launch

THE people of Liverpool have been asked to bring along torches for tonight’s opening ceremony at St George’s Hall.

The request to shine for the city comes as dozens of international guests and worldwide media prepare for the great weekend.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Paddy Bourke, and senior church leaders from another of Liverpool’s twin cities, Cologne, will be at the ceremonies tonight and tomorrow.

The consul general of China will represent Shanghai at the ECHO Arena tomorrow.

There will also be visitors from past and future Capitals of Culture, including Lille, which held the title in 2004, and Sibiu in Romania, which had its culture year in 2007.

Lithuanian capital Vilnius and Austrian city Linz, Capitals of Culture in 2009, and all three culture cities for 2010 – Istanbul, Pecs (Hungary) and Essen (Germany) – are sending representatives, while Tallinn, Capital of Culture in 2011, will also be there.

Visitors are also arriving from Marseilles, one of Liverpool’s Cities On The Edge project partners.

Meanwhile, reporters, photographers and TV crews from countries including America, Germany, France, China, Spain, Mexico, Hungary, Norway, Japan and Austria will all be covering the opening weekend.

Broudie denies rift with event organisers
Liverpool musician, Ian Broudie

IAN Broudie, previously named as one of the performers in Saturday’s culture opening at the ECHO Arena, will now not appear.

The former Lightning Seeds frontman was approached to take part in Liverpool The Musical as a solo artist.

But he will not now be among those taking part.

The 49-year-old, left, who is currently ill with flu, told the ECHO there had never been any plan to perform a concert-style set, and denied there had been a falling-out with organisers.

Drinks offers for partygoers

CAPITAL of Culture partygoers can enjoy drinks offers at several bars at Albert Dock and in the city centre after tomorrow night’s opening show.

The first drink is half price at both Blue Bar and Baby Cream on production of Saturday’s opening ceremony tickets.

Est Est Est will do a 2-for-1 cocktail offer for anyone who has a ticket to the ECHO Arena event.

The Living Room in Victoria Street will provide a glass of house wine for free, also on production of a Saturday ceremony ticket.

Meanwhile, your ECHO Arena opening ceremony ticket will also get you the first drink for free at Kingdom Bar in Harrington Street.

Sir Thomas Hotel and Sport Cafe Liverpool are both offering the first drink half price on production of Saturday’s ticket.

* * ECHO comment: Let's get this party started

Liverpool 8 - Ringo Starr

I was a sailor first

I sailed the sea

Then I got a job

In a factory

Played Butlins camp

With my friend Rory

It was good for him

It was great for me

CHORUS:

Liverpool I left you

Said goodbye to Madryn Street

I always followed my heart

And I never missed a beat

Destiny was calling

I just couldn’t stick around

Liverpool I left you

But I never let you down

Went to Hamburg

The red lights were on

With George and Paul

And my friend John

We rocked all night

We all looked up

We didn’t have much

But we had enough

REPEAT CHORUS

In the USA

When we played Shea

We were number one

Man, it was fun

When I look back

It sure was cool

For those four boys

From Liverpool

Liverpool I left you

Said goodbye to Admiral Grove

I always followed my heart

So I took it on the road

Destiny was calling

I just couldn’t stick around

Liverpool I left you

But I never let you down

This is it! Your invitation to Capital of Culture 2008

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:43:59 GMT

YOU are cordially invited to the start of Liverpool’s spectacular Capital of Culture year.

We would love you to attend the massive and spectacular free opening ceremony at St George’s Hall.

It is our time, it is our place.

Britain’s biggest stage has been created for the People’s Opening show, headlined by ex-Beatle Ringo Starr.

The weather is smiling on Liverpool. After a week of rain and wind, tonight is set to be dry.

The show starts at 8.08pm. Tens of thousands are expected.

Be there.

City prepares for culture party

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:39:43 GMT

Liverpool is preparing to twist and shout about its Capital of Culture title with acrobats, pupils and a former Beatle at the official opening.

The People's Opening event will take place in front and on top of St George's Hall in the city centre.

It kicks off a year-long programme of more than 350 events, which are set to attract an extra two million visitors and boost the economy by £100m.

The ceremony starts at 2008 GMT and is expected to attract 30,000 people.

More than 600 performers will take to the stage during the event.

The show's centrepiece will be a rooftop performance by Ringo Starr who will be premiering a new song.

It involves some big names, it has the wow factor
Clare McColgan, Liverpool Culture Company

Former Eurythmics frontman Dave Stewart and recent chart toppers The Wombats will also be taking centre stage at the proceedings.

Clare McColgan, executive producer for the Liverpool Culture Company said the opening show "will be something the city has never seen".

"It involves some big names, it has the wow factor.

"The city has never attempted anything like this, Liverpool has been through a massive change in the last five years so we have taken that as the artistic theme so the show includes lots of cranes, aerial performances and pyrotechnics."

Director Nigel Jamieson, responsible for the opening ceremony for the Sydney Olympic Games, and Jayne Casey, co-founder of Liverpool super club Cream, will be in control of the show.

St George's Hall
It's like a scouse wedding - a lot of rowing but it gets there in the end
Phil Redmond, Liverpool Culture Company

It has taken more than 100 tonnes of staging, 2.5 miles (4km) of fibre optic cabling and 250 people more than 40,000 hours to set up.

Two 40ft (12m) screens have been erected to relay proceedings to what is expected to be a huge crowd on Lime Street.

It is thought the show will last about 40 minutes although there will be events during the day building up to the main event.

Flamboyant hairdresser, Herbert Howe, who manages the tresses of Coleen McLouglin, said he was proud to be asked to take part in 2008's first main event.

He said: "To be Capital of Culture is so fantastic. I love the city, I love everything about it, I think everyone should come and see what we have to offer."

Despite earlier criticism, Phil Redmond, Brookside creator and deputy chairman of the Culture Company said he was sure it would go to plan: "It's like a scouse wedding - a lot of rowing but it gets there in the end."

On Saturday the new Echo Arena will play host to a musical extravaganza which will showcase some of the most famous names in Merseyside music.

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I wish Liverpool well - a former industrial powerhouse and people with a sense of humour
Joe, Glasgow

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Ringo Starr, Echo and The Bunnymen, The Farm, Riuven, The Wombats, Pete Wylie, Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will take centre stage alongside community choirs and gospel groups in the "once in a lifetime show".

Liverpool's art galleries and museums will also be open to visitors until 2200 GMT.

Experts at the North West Development Agency have predicted that the year-long title and other planned events could net £50m from tourists.

They also expect the same amount again to be generated on Merseyside.

Peter Mearns, executive director of marketing at the NWDA, said: "As the celebrations get under way for Capital of Culture the eyes of the world will be on England's North West and it is critical that we seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to show the world exactly what we have to offer here."

Liverpool chef makes scouse for Hollywood

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:14:55 GMT

A MERSEYSIDE chef is taking scouse to the Americans and cooking for Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Jon Ashton, 32, who was born and bred in Huyton, has become a household name in the States.

Products bearing his name are stacked on supermarket shelves and he has cooked for Hollywood A-listers such as Brad Pitt and appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Mr Ashton has also just cooked at a party held by actor Vince Vaughn in LA.

Now he is hoping to get the Americans to adopt his home city’s dish – scouse.

Earlier this week he cooked scouse to an audience of millions on The Today programme - NBC’s news and chat show.

Mr Ashton, who lives with his partner, baby daughter Victoria-Mei and his father Derek in Orlando, Florida, said: “It’s crazy. Sometimes I can’t quite believe it myself.

“I love Liverpool and it’s a big thing for me to go on national TV with this dish. I’m proud of it. It’s something I’ve grown up with.

“I’ve been on the show before but it’s chilly across the US and I wanted to do something to show my heritage.

“Northern Europeans first brought scouse (what was then called labskause) to England.

“That’s where we get the name Scousers.”

Jon worked in several restaurants across the region, such as the Kirkfield in Warrington and the Derby Lodge in Roby, after graduating from St Helens college. He then had an appearance on UK television show TV Dinners.

But the desire to achieve more led him to the US with only $2,000 (around £1,020) in his pocket.

When he arrived he went to an English pub and got some work on the building sites before finally landing a job more suited to his skills.

He began producing and starring in his own local access TV show, and then got a job as a chef for Fox before he appeared on the Tonight Show a year later.

His scouse charm has proved a huge hit and he now makes regular TV appearances.

Mr Ashton also says he has been encouraged to set up his own restaurant, but wants to concentrate on helping America tackle its obesity problem, and has been going into schools teaching children about healthy eating.

Mr Ashton, who has been in the US for the past nine years, said: “I just decided to go for it and leave for America.

“My family said I could always come back.

“It’s a bit embarrassing to say I’m a celebrity chef, I’m just a lad from Liverpool.”

A recipe fit for the stars

Liverpool's Scouse
by Jon Ashton

INGREDIENTS

2 lb leg of lamb, cubed, fat removed; 1lb stewing or braising steak, cubed, fat removed, 1pt beef stock, plus extra hot water for topping up, olive oil; 3 onions, peeled and sliced; 2 lb potatoes, peeled and sliced; 2 lb mixture of carrots, parsnips & swede, peeled and cubed, salt and pepper; 1 tbsp fresh thyme

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 325 F (160C)

Seal lamb and beef cubes quickly in an iron skillet, turning often over high heat, in a little oil.

As meat begins to brown, add onions, and cook for five minutes. Stir often.

Pour into a casserole and add all other ingredients (except salt and pepper)

Add enough hot water to just cover all ingredients.

Cover with lid and cook in the centre of the oven for approximately four hours.

Taste and add salt and pepper.

Dawn raids on gangs

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:13:42 GMT

THE Home Secretary today took a major step towards clearing guns from city streets during a visit to Liverpool.

Endorsing the ECHO’s Liverpool Unites campaign, launched after the murder of 11-year-old Rhys Jones, Jacqui Smith also announced plans to outlaw all deactivated firearms – one of four key aims of Unites.

Such guns, made “safe” by supposed collectors but often reactivated by criminal gangs, will be banned under a reclassification which already applies to replica firearms.

Talking as she headed to a Liverpool community centre Ms Smith said: “I will find a way effectively to ban these guns and take them out of circulation.”

Her move follows pressure from police chiefs, including Merseyside's Bernard Hogan-Howe, who believe there are around 120,000 such weapons in circulation nationwide.

The initial crackdown will focus on deactivated guns made before 1995 when tough restrictions aimed at making them permanently safe came into force.

At present they can be legally bought by gangsters and other criminals who turn them back into lethal weapons.

Reactivated guns have been used in a number of high-profile murders including Crimewatch presenter Jill Dando.

Ms Smith also signalled she would deliver another Liverpool Unites demand to offer better protection to witnesses of gun crime.

In a plan currently being considered by both Home Office and Ministry of Justice officials witness protection programmes would start at a much earlier stage in legal proceedings.

It is hoped the scheme would stop gangland intimidation

Ms Smith said: “People need to know very early on when they go to the police that they are going to be protected.”

The Home Secretary was today visiting the Alt Valley community centre which serves Norris Green and Croxteth and aims to retrain and motivate former street gang members.

She previously backed the ECHO campaign saying: “Decent people have no time for gangsters and guns.”

Police leader in Culture cash talks

THE Merseyside Police Authority chairman hoped to meet the home secretary today to discuss funding.

The talks come days after the ECHO revealed police officials had banned time off around big Capital of Culture events after accepting there would be no new army of officers for 2008.

Chief constable Bernard Hogan-Howe wanted £10m for 200 extra officers, but will now have to shuffle the pack he already has and pull officers off existing duties to ensure safety for the showcase year.

Officers with time and rest days in lieu have been stopped from taking them during July’s biggest events – the Open golf and the Tall Ships visits – as police try to spread their resources.

Merseyside Police Authority chairman Cllr Bill Weightman said: “I hope to address Jacqui Smith on the issues of police pay, funding for the next police budget and policing Capital of Culture.

“I will not let these issues drop”.

Liverpool Unites wants ...

1,000 more police officers for Merseyside.

A minimum sentence of 10 years for illegal possession of a firearm.

More resources for the witness protection programme.

Controls to make it much harder for criminals to acquire guns or re-commission de-commissioned weapons.

People to wear their purple ribbon or wristband to show their support. They are available on the counters of 96 Sayers bakers across Merseyside.

Capital of Culture's legacy is a golden future

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:12:06 GMT

Neil Hodgson, Helen Mayo and Catherine Jones preview our city of the future
How Chavasse Park will soon look

IF LIVERPOOL’S thrilling year as Capital of Culture has whetted your appetite for an exciting 12 month kaleidoscope of memorable events - you ain’t seen nothing yet.

For Liverpool’s legacy from its year in the spotlight will outstrip the hectic cultural calendar beginning to unfold after tomorrow’s star-studded opening ceremony.

It will create a city of the future after years of economic decline when the region was a “jobs-free zone”; an era when Militant locked horns with the Thatcher regime in the 80s and financial and professional services decamped to Manchester in the 90s.

Because when the dust settles on the Capital of Culture’s December closing ceremony the city will continue to thrive – and build on its growing reputation.

Big investors will know it as a place now eager to do business.

Our high profile has attracted a swathe of key events this year.

Next week, 150 international delegates will be at the first International Winter School hosted by the University of Liverpool’s School of Architecture, from January 13-18.

Liverpool is also hosting the British Urban Regeneration Association’s annual conference on January 30-31 at FACT. It is being held in the north-west for the first time.

Later, former minister for Merseyside Lord Michael Heseltine will reflect on the changes since he oversaw the city’s recovery from the 1981 Toxteth riots and look to the future in the Roscoe Lecture Series 08, at St George’s Hall on April 29.

And another international conference, the Magical Mysterious Regeneration Tour from June 12-14, will debate regeneration.

Tesco supremo Sir Terry Leahy is a key speaker at the two-day Transforming The Future summit, when more than 1,000 of the world’s movers and shakers will be at the ECHO Arena and BT Conference Centre from October 1-2.

Liverpool Chamber of Commerce chief executive Jack Stopforth believes that even if nothing else happened in Liverpool from today, the city has already benefited from its 2008 status.

The title has attracted investors to the city to fund key projects like Grosvenor’s £1bn Liverpool One centre, the new St Paul’s business district and Edge Lane’s hi-tech Liverpool Digital park.

Mr Stopforth says: “These projects have only happened because there is a renewed confidence in Liverpool by the outside investment industry.

“When people come to Liverpool they are gobsmacked and the legacy will be the rehabilitation of the city in the eyes of outside business people and investors.

“The impetus we have built up now is really encouraging because most of the big schemes are privately funded. We will probably see more of that post 08 because people will see how fabulous the city is looking.”

Liverpool city council regeneration director John Kelly believes two developments in particular show the region is once again a key player.

He says: “What will make the most dramatic difference will be Liverpool One, a premier shopping centre that will lock in investment that has perennially been leaking out.

“And the ECHO Arena and conference centre brings leisure tourism and business tourism, plus lots of new people to the city who will say ‘Gosh, I never realised Liverpool was so good,’ and come back again.”

Mr Kelly adds: “The airport, the cruise liner terminal and the offer around the Pier Head of the new canal, the museum and heritage attraction and two cathedrals will bring in lots more new tourists.”

Liverpool One chief executive Joanne Jennings says the £1bn scheme’s 160 new shops, 20 new bars and restaurants and, more importantly 5,000 new jobs, are unprecedented in Europe.

She says: “I can’t think of anywhere in Europe that will have the same investment in one specific project. No city has seen anything like this; people should be proud of what they have achieved.

“The legacy will be the level of expenditure on bricks and mortar. That is what will make a difference for Liverpool, more than any programmes.”

Looking to the future one dream that could still become a reality is transport boss Neil Scales’s desire for a Merseytram system that he says is imperative.

The Merseytravel chief executive and director general says: “We need it because if you look at the ECHO Arena last Friday, with only 4,500 people trying to get out of The Strand, it was solid.

“Imagine if we had trams taking people out of there?

“Major European cities have a tram system, so it would be a real lasting legacy.”

Expert view

from ECHO editor Alastair Machray

THIS city stands, once again, on the verge of greatness.

It has come through some dark times. Militant, Bulger, Hillsborough, Heysel – they hung over Liverpool for years, like a dark, thick cloud.

The Militant era, in particular, left a legacy of mistrust between public and private sectors, a mistrust that hindered investment and prosperity.

Things changed. And the biggest change of all came with the 2003 announcement that Liverpool was to be European Capital of Culture. That announcement brought twin surges of confidence.

Inside the city, movers and shakers dared to dream grand plans of renaissance and regeneration.

Outside the city, entrepreneurs looked with fresh eyes and found a land of rare potential and massive investment opportunities.

And 08 became a deadline of critical importance. Much will be far from finished as the world comes to town over the months ahead. But without 08 as a target, they might barely have been started.

And in time for 08 we have the designer stores of the Metquarter, the gleaming malls of Liverpool One, the proud sweep of the ECHO Arena.

This is a city transformed. Much done and much to come.

08 has already achieved extraordinary things as a reason for confidence and a deadline for improvement. If it succeeds as a festival, it will make us a truly great European city.

Diary highlights

JANUARY 13-18: International Winter School

JANUARY 30-31: British Urban Regeneration Association’s annual conference

APRIL 29: Roscoe Lecture by Lord Heseltine

MAY: First phase opening of Liverpool One

JUNE 12-14: Magical Mysterious Regeneration Tour

OCTOBER 1-2: The Liverpool Summit

Nov 25-27: Towards a New Urbanism

MAY: First phase opening of Liverpool One

JUNE 12-14: Magical Mysterious Regeneration Tour

OCTOBER 1-2: The Liverpool Summit

Nov 25-27: Towards a New Urbanism

Let the train ease the strain as city’s 08 fun really takes off!

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:11:26 GMT

CAPITAL of Culture revellers planning to watch the spectacular opening ceremonies are being urged to plan their journeys in advance.

Between 20,000 to 30,000 people are expected to converge on Lime Street for the People’s Opening tomorrow.

And there will be a capacity 10,000 crowd at the ECHO Arena on Saturday night for Liverpool The Musical: The Greatest Story Ever Told.

Organisers are advising as many people as possible to use public transport to get into the city centre.

Andy Barr, the council’s head of traffic management, said: “We’re asking people to allow plenty of time to arrive at both the weekend’s opening events.

“On Friday, people should be aware there will be roads closed as crowds arrive and the best option will be to take the train.

“There will be limited parking provision at the venue for Saturday’s event, so we’d also encourage ticketholders to use public transport where possible.”

Kris Donaldson, acting chief executive of Liverpool Culture Company, said: “We’re looking forward to a spectacular opening weekend for Liverpool’s Capital of Culture year and the people of Liverpool will play a vital part in proceedings.

“We expect thousands to turn up for the People’s Opening tomorrow night, so it will be important for people to think about travel arrangements in advance.”

ECHO Arena bosses are requesting people arrive early for Saturday’s extravaganza and doors will open at 6pm.

ACC Liverpool chief executive Bob Prattey said: “The advice is to use public transport, but if people must come by car, they should plan their journeys carefully, follow the highway signage and allow plenty of time to reach the venue.”

Preparations are on schedule for the People’s Opening at St George’s Hall where Ringo Starr will headline, performing his new song Liverpool 8.

A team of 200 technicians have been on site for the past week to transform the plateau in front of the grade I listed building into a giant performance area.

The 40-minute show will start at 8.08pm.

Rehearsals were being held today with some of Liverpool’s 700 Capital of Culture volunteers standing in for the artists.

Neil Peterson, head of the Liverpool Welcome programme, said: “They’re working very hard and it’s going to be a long day for them – they are there until 11pm. But it’s a great experience.”

Nigel Jamieson, who along with Jayne Casey is the artistic director behind the opening, said: “The last thing we want to do in this show is something people have seen before.

“It’s about freshness and imagination.”

People who make the journey into the city centre for the opening will also be able to get a taste of other cultural events on offer.

St George’s Hall’s heritage centre will be open until 11pm to take visitors on a journey back to the Victorian era.

World Museum Liverpool and the Walker Art Gallery in William Brown Street will also be open until 10pm.

The Empire Theatre has cancelled tomorrow evening’s performance of Blood Brothers because of the crowds expected in Lime Street.

Culture events will also take place around the city on Saturday.

FACT is among those hosting culture-related events in what it is calling its New Year Revolution.

Between 11am and 1pm people are encouraged to drop in and capture their hopes and dreams for the future of Liverpool by designing their own hot air balloon with artist Luke Jerram.

Music and visuals will come from VJ Jackie Passmore, while electronic percussionists Powerplant will play a “monster set” and Jump Ship Rat’s Ben Parry will drive his Musical Milk Float around Ropewalks.

FACT director Mike Stubbs said: “To celebrate the opening of a momentous year for Liverpool we want to encourage Liverpudlians to share in our resolution and to see this is a time for the city to make revolutions to shake up its path towards a bright and successful future.”

More details from www.fact.co.uk or 0151-707 4450.

In Bold Street, bookstore Waterstones hosts a signing by larger-than-life cook and TV presenter Rustie Lee at noon. Call 0151-708 6861 or visit www.waterstones.com

Meanwhile, there will be a hive of activities at the Albert Dock. Street theatre company Shiverpool will scare passers-by with their tales of the Albert Dock, and theatrical street artists will bring the dock to life.

Several short films made in Liverpool will be screened in the Dock’s biennial cinema, while poets will read specially-written verse on the culture of Liverpool at various venues.

And when darkness falls, ships in the dock will be lit up to celebrate 2008.

Log on to www.albertdock.com for details.

What is open and what is closed on Saturday

A NUMBER of bars and restaurants at the Albert Dock will be closed to members of the public on Saturday evening to cater for special Capital of Culture opening ceremony events.

The Pumphouse Inn (0151-709 2367) will be open as usual from 11am until midnight and the Blue Bar (0151-702 5831) will also be open as normal.

The Blue Bar will also have a special live music set on Saturday afternoon to celebrate the opening weekend, with performances from Pete Riley, Michael Ryder, Kaya, Lizzie Nunnery, Seamus McLoughlin, Jeff Jepson and Delta Fiasco to keep revellers entertained from 1pm-4pm.

Part of Est Est Est (0870 40 12 125) will be closed for a Capital of Culture event, but the rest of the restaurant will still be open to the public as normal from noon to 2am.

Pan Am (0151-702 5831) and Ha! Ha! Bar & Canteen (0151-707 7877) will both be closed to the public after 4pm for Capital of Culture functions and Vinea (0151-707 8962) will be open during the day but will close at 7.30pm.

Circo’s (0151-709 7097) restaurant is open to the public from noon to 8.30pm before closing to cater for 660 Capital of Culture VIPs converging on the Albert Dock. The venue’s separate bar will be open to the public all day from 10am and has a special 4am licence.

For late night clubbers, Baby Blue and Babycream (0151-702 5826) will be open as normal till 4am.

If you are travelling by public transport

PEOPLE are being advised to use public transport where possible on both Friday and Saturday nights.

On both evenings Merseyrail will run trains with a higher-than-usual capacity, with many three carriage services extended to six carriage especially at peak hours during the evening.

FRIDAY:

PEOPLE are advised to use rail services and to exit at Lime Street, Central or Moorfields stations.

Free park-and-ride facilities are available at several Merseyrail and Northern Rail stations.

Buses will run into the city on normal timetables, but their usual route may be disrupted by road closures around Lime Street. Extra staff will be on duty at Queen Square bus station.

SATURDAY:

PARADISE Street bus station, James Street and Liverpool Central Merseyrail stations are within walking distance of the ECHO Arena.

The S1 bus will not be run.

Both Mersey tunnels will be open on Friday and Saturday nights.

Passengers can plan their journey by going to www.merseytravel.gov.uk or contacting Merseytravel’s Traveline team on 0871 200 22 33.

Travelling by car

FRIDAY:

CAR parks in the vicinity of St George’s Hall will be open, including Mount Pleasant, Lord Nelson Street, Queen Square and St John’s shopping centre.

But organisers say several city centre roads radiating out from Lime Street will be progressively closed off depending on the number of people who attend the event.

Motorists are warned access to car parks could then be blocked off, while bus routes could also be diverted as a result.

On both nights advice for drivers will be flashed up on electronic variable messaging road signs sited on main routes into the city.

SATURDAY:

PARKING is limited at the Albert Dock and at the ECHO Arena’s multi-storey car park, which is expected to fill up quickly.

People who are driving should also consider using other car parks in the city centre, which will be open as normal.

They can also use the Q Park in Liver Street, next to the new Paradise Street bus interchange.

Both Mersey tunnels will be open on Friday and Saturday nights.

Police raids in Croxteth and Norris Green

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:10:39 GMT

SUSPECTED Liverpool gang members and drug dealers were rounded up by police in early morning raids.

Police vans swept through Croxteth and Norris Green just before 7am.

By 9am 28 people aged between 17 and 48 were under arrest, mostly on suspicion of drug related offences. Two guns were also found during the raids on 30 homes.

The operation came just hours before Home Secretary Jacqui Smith arrived in Croxteth.

She was using the visit to announce plans to outlaw all deactivated firearms.

A private meeting with the parents of murdered 11-year-old Croxteth Park schoolboy Rhys Jones was also planned.

Today’s raids followed a year-long evidence gathering operation by the anti-gun anti-gang Matrix Unit.

Police used battering rams to break down the doors of the properties scattered right across the L11 postcode.

Those arrested were believed to have links to rival gangs the Strand gang and Croxteth Crew.

Police also detained two fugitives found in one house and recovered £7,000 hidden by a stereo along with what was believed to be class A drugs.

Chief Supt Toby Doherty of Merseyside police said: “This is the result of some quite audacious police work.

“Officers have really put themselves on the line to get the evidence for this operation today.

“These people, we believe, are the very people you do not want living next door to you.

“We believe they make their living out of drugs and gun crime.”

More than 250 officers were given briefing packs on their individual targets before they launched the raids.

While they did not expect to find much in the way of extra evidence, police said today was about taking targets off the streets.

Mr Doherty added: “It is about taking these people out of the community today. Not next week, not next month, but today.

“We urge members of the public to contact us and help us to reclaim our neighbourhoods.”

“People do have a choice. They can live next door to drug dealers, causing problems for them.

“Or, they can make a stand by calling us or Crimestoppers.”

Today’s finds takes the number of guns uncovered in L11 this week alone to five.

Three more were found when Matrix officers raided a house in Croxteth on Tuesday.

They are all now being tested by forensic experts to see if they can be linked to any crimes.

Liverpool FC stars pay their respects to Sheila Walsh

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:09:20 GMT

LIVERPOOL FC stars past and present have paid their respects to Sheila Walsh, who had worked as a secretary in the club for 26 years.

Among the mourners were past Liverpool FC managers Kenny Dalglish, Graeme Souness, Roy Evans and Gerrard Houllier.

Rafa Benitez led his team into the church of St Mary's the Virgin in Waterloo, on Thursday for the service.

Sheila Walsh died on New Year's day, after she lost a battle with cancer.

Raids to target gang drug supply

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:08:24 GMT

More than 200 police officers on Merseyside have carried out dawn raids targeting drug activity by two notorious gangs.

Police arrested 28 people across Croxteth and Norris Green at 0700 GMT in an operation to disrupt rivals, the Croxteth Crew and Strand Gang.

Supt Paul Richardson said the gangs were suspected of supplying large quantities of class A drugs.

A firearm, ammunition and £7,000 cash has already been been seized.

The raids, on 31 addresses, were carried out following 12 months of undercover surveillance on suspects and their houses.

Gang killing

Supt Richardson said it was "highly likely" that many of those arrested would be charged.

"Members of these gangs are causing some people's lives to be a misery in Croxteth and Norris Green.

"And we will make a significant impact against gun and drug criminality."

Detectives believe murdered schoolboy Rhys Jones was an innocent victim caught up in a feud between the Croxteth Crew and Strand Gang when he was shot in the neck outside the Fir Tree pub in August.

In November three gang members were convicted of murdering Strand Gang member Liam Smith, 19, who was shot in the head as he left Altcourse Prison in 2006.

Chf Supt Tony Doherty, head of Force Operations, said: "People do have a choice. They can live next door to drug dealers who have a constant stream of people knocking on their door for their latest supplies and causing problems for them and their families.

"Or, if they don't want their children or grandchildren growing up in this sort of environment, they can make a stand."

Deactivated gun ban 'by year end'

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 08:07:43 GMT

The home secretary has unveiled plans to ban deactivated guns this year, on a visit to the Liverpool suburb where schoolboy Rhys Jones was murdered.

Jacqui Smith said she wanted to protect the public and allow police to remove black-market firearms from the streets.

Deactivated guns are no longer capable of firing live ammunition, but criminals often alter them for re-use. Ms Smith met the parents of 11-year-old Rhys, who was shot dead on 22 August while returning home.

Gangs and gun crime, both prevalent in the area, were top of the agenda.

We already have the tightest controls in Europe but there is more we can do
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith

Who supplies the guns?

Ms Smith said: "I want to balance protecting the public with the rights of responsible collectors of deactivated firearms.

"I will shortly consult on a way forward to allow genuine curators to collect legitimate firearms while giving the police and other enforcement agencies the powers they need to get black-market firearms of our streets.

"Tackling gun crime is key to making people feel safer and more secure in their communities. We already have the tightest controls in Europe but there is more we can do to remove the threat of gun crime."

But Conservative Party leader David Cameron accused the home secretary of "complacency".

"She has said gun crime is thankfully rare; in fact a gun crime is committed every hour in England and Wales," he said.

Speaking during a visit to Salford, Mr Cameron warned there was a growing "cultural and social acceptance of violence".

Widely available

Typically, a deactivated gun has its barrel sawn down the middle and a metal rod is then welded inside to make it incapable of discharging a bullet.

The breech block - which contains the mechanism to actually fire the bullet - is ground down so there is no firing pin.

It is a big loophole in our firearms legislation
Gill Marshall-Andrews, Gun Control Network

The proposal to make deactivated guns illegal comes after a huge increase in the amount of model and pellet guns converted to fire live ammunition.

The police have said there are an estimated 120,000 in circulation in the UK.

Also many replica guns can be easily converted to enable them to fire live ammunition.

A Home Office spokeswoman said there are many types of replica guns, which can range from plastic toys up to metal ones which fire blanks.

However, it is only the metal ones that police refer to when they discuss replicas being converted to fire live ammunition, she said.

The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) said deactivated guns accounted for about 10% of all criminally used firearms submitted to the Forensic Science Service.

An ACPO spokeswoman said she welcomed the closing of a loophole in the law that allowed people to own deactivated weapons, even though realistic imitation firearms were banned in 2006 under Violent Crime Reduction Act.

Offences

However, the most recent Home Office firearms figures from 2005/6 show that reactivated or deactivated firearms were used in just eight offences, out of a total of 11,084.

Reactivated handguns were used twice; deactivated firearms were used four times; and other reactivated firearms were used twice.

There were, however, a large number of offences (4,989) in which the weapon was unidentified or unknown.

Shadow home secretary David Davis said deactivated weapons accounted for a tiny proportion of gun crime.

"The home secretary should realise that the public want a rigorous, long-term and holistic approach to the scourge of gun-crime, not ad-hoc announcements which will do little more than paper over the cracks," he said.

Government ministers look set to reclassify deactivated weapons as replica guns, which are already banned.

The move will affect weapons which were deactivated before 1995, when new standards made it harder to convert non-firing guns back into lethal weapons.

Police say many firearms currently being used in crime were deactivated before that time.

Collector implications

A Home Office spokesman said any new law brought in following the home secretary's announcement would relate "almost entirely" to pre-1995 guns.

Ms Smith's visit to Liverpool comes as police raids saw 25 people arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs in the Croxteth and Norris Green areas of the city.

The Home Office is also to consider the implications for museums with collections of antique weapons.

Gill Marshall-Andrews of the Gun Control Network said: "We are delighted, this has been on our agenda for a long time. It is a big loophole in our firearms legislation."

But firearms collector Julian Tacon feared the proposals could have a major impact on legitimate collectors while being ignored by criminals.

"It would affect many, many people and trade worth millions. I would be extremely concerned about that," he said.

Rhys' parents, Stephen Jones, 44, and Melanie Jones, 41, held a private meeting with the home secretary.

Rhys was shot in the neck and despite a number of arrests nobody has been charged with the schoolboy's murder.

His parents have repeatedly called for the gunman to hand himself in.

Cowell: Go back home Britney

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:45:01 GMT

TELLY’S “Mr Nasty” Simon Cowell told last night of his sadness at the plight of pop princess Britney Spears — and urged her to get help from her mum.

The music mogul and X Factor supremo said Britney’s meltdown last week could have been predicted, and that he wished he had been on hand to stop the singer self-destructing.

Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Cowell said: “From where I sit, you could see this coming a long time ago. I said six months ago that she should go home.

“I’d have said, ‘Stay with your mum, don’t go out with your stupid friends, just live normally.’ You’d be amazed — you live normally, and suddenly everything becomes normal.

“All that craziness, being followed around and all that stuff, it’s going to do your head in. But you can get away from it if you want to.”

Cowell, 48, spoke days after a berserk Britney was snapped being taken to hospital strapped to a stretcher.

Problem

And yesterday the madness continued on the streets of Los Angeles — as Britney, now said to be dating a British photographer, drove around erratically, then abandoned her car in the road when it got a flat tyre — and ended up cadging a lift home with a SECOND paparazzi snapper.

Cowell, in charge of clean-living acts like Leona Lewis and latest X Factor winner Leon Jackson, went on: “I do feel sorry for Britney. I would have taken her somewhere quiet for six months. The problem with Britney is that I don’t think there’s anyone in her life that she listens to.

“Someone should have said to her, ‘Right, enough. You can see where this is heading, you’re not going to cope with it yourself’.”

When told that troubled singer Amy Winehouse had taken herself to the Caribbean island of Mustique to detox, Cowell said: “That’s exactly what you have to do, take yourself out the glare.

“I do feel bad for Britney. But having said that, then I see the real world where people really are struggling — haven’t got enough money, haven’t got enough whatever — and you have to temper that with, ‘Stop being stupid, go home. Life ain’t that bad’.”

'Dump him' ... troubled Britney with Adnan Ghalib

'Dump him' ... troubled Britney
with Adnan Ghalib

RETNA

Stars managed by Sony BMG, headed by Cowell, are rarely in the headlines for the wrong reasons.

When asked how he has managed to keep them on the straight and narrow, Cowell said: “I suppose the answer is, we’re very matter-of-fact with them from the start.

Softer

“We sit them down and say, ‘Look, you have to treat people the way you would want to be treated yourself’. If your ego takes over and you fall out with us, you could end up working in a shoe shop or you’ll walk into Sainsbury’s and people will say, ‘Didn’t you used to be . . ?’.

“So we tell them that, and they generally listen to us. And if they did start to misbehave, I’d have no problem about hauling them up and telling them straight to pack it in.”

Cowell — interviewed while on holiday at a five-star resort in Barbados — also revealed the softer reality behind his ruthless “Mr Nasty” image.

He takes his mum on hols to Barbados each year, and is patron of a dog sanctuary there which he set up with a £10,000 donation.

He added: “People sometimes mistake honesty for nastiness. But I’m just honest. I don’t say anything on TV I wouldn’t say in the real world.”

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles yesterday, friends and relatives begged Britney to dump her Brummie photographer lover Adnan Ghalib — fearing he is preying on the vulnerable star.

Sources said Adnan, 35, had promised to save Britney and win her two young sons back from her ex-hubby Kevin Federline.

Adnan also reportedly told her he is giving up his lucrative work as one of LA’s top paparazzi in order to be with her.

The Sun has revealed that Britney has become hooked on drugs including one for racehorses.

A source close to her said: “She is vulnerable, confused and needs urgent psychological help.

“Her family have been begging her to ditch the photographer.

“She told us he had promised to help her win back her kids, that he was giving up paparazzi work, and was in love with her.

“But the family are very worried about her safety when she is with him.”

Britney — who had been in hiding with Adnan in Santa Barbara following her hospital meltdown — returned to her Hollywood home without him on Monday night. She had a brief meeting with her doctors before going on a wild drive around LA which ended with cops impounding her Mercedes.

Britney first drove to a pharmacy, forgetting to put her lights on, then led photographers on a ride around LA. It ended when her car developed a flat tyre and she abandoned it in the middle of a busy road.

With no sign of lover Adnan, she hopped into the car of another good-looking snapper and told him to drive her home. But minutes after arriving Britney emerged again, at the wheel of her assistant’s Toyota, and drove to the Four Seasons Hotel.

Police confirmed Britney’s car had been towed and impounded because it was blocking the road. She will have to pay a £50 fee to get back the motor, which will be sold off if she does not collect it within 30 days.

Bill's Reg Hollis slashes wrists

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:44:14 GMT

VETERAN telly cop Jeff Stewart slashed his wrists on the set of The Bill last night — minutes after being sacked.

Jeff, 52, who has played PC Reg Hollis since 1984, was rushed to hospital after security men raised the alarm at the studios in Merton, South London.

Jeff had been suspended just before Christmas after a furious outburst on the set.

Yesterday he was told his contract on the ITV1 show — in which he was the only original 1984 cast member left — was not being renewed.

Under observation ... at St. George's Hospital

Under observation ... at St. George's Hospital

Distraught Jeff returned to his dressing room at around 6.30pm and cut his wrists.

He then dialled out of the room and begged for help — sending security at the studios in Merton, South London, racing to help him and calling an ambulance.

The actor was taken to St George’s Hospital in nearby Tooting, where he remained under observation last night.

In character ... Jeff as Reg Hollis

In character ... Jeff as Reg Hollis

Last night a source on the ITV1 cop show said: “This was a desperate cry for help. It’s extremely sad. He is in hospital and is being cared for.”

Jeff was devastated by the suspension, but an insider said: “He was totally out of line. Directors are used to getting grief from actors but this went way too far.

“Bosses decided he should be suspended for a week to give him time to calm down.”

Jeff has struggled since suffering an emotional breakdown in 2006, when he collapsed and was taken to hospital.

He was treated at the Priory clinic and later admitted: “It’s true I was in a bit of a state. In fact I’d hit rock bottom and was on medication.

Accused

Click here to find out more!

“But there is no way I would ever take my own life and I can’t really explain what happened that evening. I was probably in a worse state than I was prepared to admit — and I did go to the Priory for a few days to get back on my feet.

“The Bill has given me a great focus in life and this recent illness has renewed my relish for acting and for life in general.”

In 1996, Jeff was accused of smoking cannabis and indulging in sado-masochistic sex. He was a close friend of former Bill star Kevin Lloyd, alias Tosh Lines, who died from drink-related problems in 1998.

A source at The Bill said: “This is desperately sad and we just want Jeff to get better.

“Thankfully his injuries aren’t life-threatening, but everyone is just devastated for him.”

Find the yobs who spat at Jamie Carragher

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:37:03 GMT

AN inquiry has been launched by Luton Football Club into the treatment of Reds star Jamie Carragher who was spat at and had beer hurled over him following an FA Cup clash.

The Reds defender hit the headlines yesterday after he scaled advertising hoarding to momentarily confront Hatters fans at Kenilworth Road.

Carragher was subjected to a torrent of vile abuse as he signed autographs for children after the game.

Small boys were left in tears as a wig-wearing gang of up to eight men, said to be aged between 18-22, targeted the 29-year-old.

References even were made to the footballer’s mother and threats made against the good-natured defender.

Today, a spokesman for Luton FC confirmed they had launched an inquiry into the whole incident. It is understood the behaviour of the fans involved will be probed and action could be taken once they are identified.

Liverpool supporters groups have welcomed the move and asked for the Hatters fans responsible to be named and shamed.

Les Lawson, secretary of the Merseyside branch of the official LFC supporters club, told the ECHO: “If Jamie has been good enough to go and meet the kids, only to be spat at, be covered in beer, and abused, those so-called fans should be identified.

“The actions of their fans need to be looked at, and I would expect Luton to deal with this in the right way.

“It was in a particular executive box, and they were wearing wigs so that should make them stick out.

“It won’t be hard for the club to find out who they are.

“Every person in the heat of the moment shouts stuff out, but this was well after the game as finished and totally uncalled for.”

Shocked fans from a nearby box have told the ECHO that Carragher was spat at as he shook hands with Hamzah Ahmed, eight.

His uncle Sim Hussain, 31, from Luton, and his friend’s father jumped into the neighbouring box to stop the foul-mouthed fans.

A spokesman for Luton FC said: “The incident is being investigated as a whole. No doubt Liverpool FC will be in touch with us over the matter.

“The issue is being looked at by our safety officer who is very experienced and will take all effects into account.

“I can’t comment on his findings until he completes his investigation. He is actively dealing with this.

“It will cover all aspects of the incident and the matter is still ongoing.”

The spokesman refused to comment on what censure could be placed on fans if they are found to have acted inappropriately.

Fans who attended the game have been telephoning both Anfield and Kenilworth Road to report their disgust at the behaviour.

An Anfield source said the abuse started as some players were taking part in a warm-down on the pitch.

A Liverpool FC spokesman said: “Clearly, the behaviour of these fans was completely unacceptable.”

John Lennon Airport laying on the red carpet for 08

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:35:53 GMT

THOUSANDS of Capital of Culture visitors will get a warm welcome the moment they land at Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport this year.

The airport’s seven transfer buses have all been “wrapped” in culture graphics and there is an onboard “welcome” multi-lingual DVD on newly-installed TV screens.

Meanwhile, bus drivers are also learning how to greet visitors in their own language.

They are among a range of culture and tourism initiatives JLA unveiled yesterday.

They also include:

More than 300 metres of unique artwork which runs along glazed arrivals routes depicting different images of the five north west regions.

The themed wrapping of all columns in the baggage reclaim area.

A large media wall in the departure lounge playing a promotional video.

Table tops at departure gates branded with 08 logos and Capital if Culture logos incorporated in carpets.

JLA managing director Neil Pakey said: “This project emanates from when Liverpool was announced as Capital of Culture.

“It’s our aspiration to become a public arts building in its own right.”

The £1.6m Air Portal initiative has been created in partnership with the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) which funded the scheme.

Phil takes guest spot on the sofa

HE knows a thing or two about a good story.

So it was fitting Phil Redmond joined Liverpool artist Ruth Ben-Tovim on a brightly-coloured sofa in Woolton yesterday as part of the Be My Guest culture project.

The sofa appeared on the streets of south Liverpool from eight yesterday morning until 10pm, and people were invited to sit down and exchange stories and memories about their life and their community.

The project is part of the build up to the official opening of Liverpool's European Capital of Culture year this weekend.

Phil Redmond said: “An important part of the whole year is community engagement.

“Although the big events are getting all the headlines, 2008 is supposed to be building people’s interest in culture and confidence in having a good time with culture.

“That’s why I wanted to drop in on this project.”

Ruth Ben-Tovim, of arts organisation Encounters, said: “We shared stories with people of love, family, change, hope and of how their communities used to be.”

The stories will now be added to others already collected and then collated into a play, which will be performed by a Liverpool actor.

This one-man show will tour people's homes and community centres in April. The show finale will take place on European Neighbours Day in May.

Thought for 08 - January 9

A NEW word has entered our vocabulary in recent months and it’s even been the topic of a debate in Parliament.

The word is Christianophobia. It’s related to words like Islamophobia and homophobia.

As someone who is a practising Christian I recognise what such discrimination feels like. But I’m not one to stamp my feet or throw the dummy out of the pram.

Christendom has been and gone and all I would ask now is that Christians are treated as well as other sizeable minorities in our glorious, chaotic jumble of a society. Š

For me the marks of true Christian culture have to reflect the character of the one from whom it takes its name, Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ. That culture will be marked by a passion for justice and for real goodness.

My hope for 2008 is that those in our great city who are passionate about their faith will have their voice heard alongside everyone else.

WAYNE CLARKE, BBC Radio Merseyside religious producer and Dovedale Baptist Church minister

Diary

Jan 9: 7.30pm – Blood Brothers, Liverpool Empire (until Jan 26). 0844 847 2525.

Jan 9: 7.30pm – Aladdin, Everyman (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 9: 7.30pm – Flint Street Nativity, Playhouse (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 9: Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 9: Anne Frank exhibition, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 7).

Jan 9: At 25 Metres, FACT (until January 13).

Jan 9: 7.30pm – Shall We Dance, RLPO. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 10: Lunchtime talk on Dickens and Liverpool writers, St George’s Hall. 0151-225 6909.

Jan 10: 7.30pm – Shall We Dance, RLPO. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 10: 8pm – Dark Grumblings, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 11: 8.08pm – Capital of Culture People’s Opening, St George’s Plateau.

Jan 12: 8.08pm – Capital of Culture opening event, ECHO Arena. Sold out.

Jan 13: 2pm – Favourite Songs of Liverpool, Sefton Park Palm House. 0151-726 2415.

Jan 13: 7.30pm – Beyond the Barricade, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 14: 5pm – Roscoe Lecture on the Holocaust, St George’s Hall. 0151-231 3852.

Jan 14: 2.15pm – Holocaust memorial flower laying, St John’s Gardens.

Capital of Culture's People's Opening

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:34:41 GMT

THE man behind the Capital of Culture People’s Opening today promised a night to remember.

Up to 30,000 people are expected to descend on Lime Street on Friday to watch the spectacular performance headed by Ringo Starr.

Names from the world of art and entertainment, air cannons and 70 guitarists will also feature in the show.

Artistic co-director for both this weekend’s culture opening ceremonies Nigel Jamieson said: “It will be something those who go will remember for the rest of their lives.

“This is a show which is full of the unexpected. There will be people performing in spaces and on stages where you’d never imagine them to perform.

“It will be magic on a grand scale.”

Liverpool Culture Company has brought in 200 stewards to help with the crowds at St George’s Plateau for the free event.

It will start at 8.08pm (20:08) and will feature the former Beatle performing his new song Liverpool 8 on top of St George’s Hall.

Fireworks and more than two miles of fibre optic cable will all be used in the show which celebrates Liverpool’s artistic talent and history of trade.

There will also be special guests whose identities are being kept a closely-guarded secret.

Mr Jamieson said: “The show is about celebrating the artists of the city.

“There will be the most extraordinary array on board, ranging from people known around the world hand-in-hand with the current younger generation of artists bringing culture into Liverpool’s schools and communities.”

The 40-minute opening also includes cranes, 40 aerial performers, mountaineers and extreme sports enthusiasts and will involve surrounding buildings such as Lime Street station.

Mr Jamieson, whose track record includes large-scale ceremonies for the Sydney Olympics and Manchester Commonwealth Games, said there were “contingency plans” in place if gale force winds battered the city.

But the Met Office today predicted light rain with winds of around 10mph on Friday night.

Carragher's war on terrace

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:17:02 GMT

THIS is the flashpoint moment when raging Jamie Carragher lunged at taunting fans – and offered to FIGHT them.

The Liverpool defender lost it over banter by eight Luton supporters wearing curly black wigs and yellow shellsuits like the bickering Scousers from ’90s comedy show Harry Enfield’s Television Programme.

Calm down ... fuming Jamie Carragher

Calm down ... fuming
Jamie Carragher

Like the TV characters, they urged him to “calm down” as he jogged round the pitch with teammates after Sunday’s FA Cup draw at Luton’s ground.

They also hurled remarks about midfielder John Arne Riise’s ginger hair.

Ex-England player Carragher first shouted at the fans, who were in a box on the terraces, from the pitch. But then he leapt up a fence to confront them.

Carragher, 29, screamed obscenities and yelled: “Come on – let’s have it!” Security guards had to drag him away.

Luton fan Michael Sapsford, who was in the box, said: “This is a Premiership star behaving like a thug.”

Click here to find out more!

Plumber Michael, 24, added: “He couldn’t cope with banter in good spirits that hundreds of other players put up with every week.”

No complaint was made after the game – attended by new England boss Fabio Capello.

But a Luton FC spokesman said: “There was a problem being investigated by our safety officer.”

McCann's consider 'Madeleine the Movie' deal

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:16:02 GMT

Kate and Gerry McCann are in talks to turn the story of their missing daughter Madeleine into a movie.

They are negotiating with one of the world’s largest talent and entertainment agencies, IMG, over the film in a deal which could be worth millions.

The couple are also considering a book deal and selling interviews to television broadcasters with all proceeds going to the Madeleine Fund, the body set up to finance the search for the girl.

It is understood the enormous costs of funding the continued search for Madeleine is proving a strain on the fund. There are fears that the £1.2 million raised from public donations will soon run out.
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A source close to the McCanns said: "We would only get involved with something done sensitively and considerately."

The team that made Touching The Void, an award-winning drama-documentary about the fight for survival of two British climbers lost on a mountain, are the most likely to be involved in the Maddy film project.

It will be discussed at a meeting of the fund's directors, including Gerry, tomorrow night at the McCanns' home in Rothley, Leicestershire.

Madeleine was six days short of her fourth birthday when she vanished from her bed in the family's holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in Portugal on May 3.

The Madeleine Fund is spending £50,000 a month on Spanish private detective agency Metodo 3 and is also paying for a poster and television advertising campaign in Spain, Portugal and Morocco, where there have been several alleged sightings.

Estimates suggest at least £500,000 has already been spent.

Touching The Void, directed by Oscar-winner KevinMacdonald, won best British film at the 2004 Baftas. It told the story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates and their near-fatal attempt to climb a mountain in the Peruvian Andes through a mixture of interviews with them and dramatic reconstructions.

The Madeleine movie could follow a similar method.

It is thought that negotiations will only begin in earnest if and when the McCann’s status as official suspects - or arguidos - is lifted by Portuguese police.

Trisha signs up for new show on City Talk

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:15:21 GMT

TALK show host Trisha is joining the team of Liverpool’s newest radio station.

The 50-year-old has signed to be a presenter on City Talk 105.9 which goes live on air this month.

And she has also become an 08 Ambassador promoting Liverpool to the world in Capital of Culture year.

The London-born TV star said today she could not wait to go on air in Liverpool in what will be her first move into radio in Britain.

She had a radio talk show in Australia where she started her career.

She will host Talk to Trisha every Sunday from 8pm-10pm, providing a forum for lively debate around people’s true-life issues and stories.

Trisha said: “I’m a great fan of everything not being sucked into London and I refuse to move there, so when this offer came up it was fantastic.

“The impression I get of Liverpool is that they shoot from the lip, say what they mean and have a sense of humour as well.

“I do think there’s more of a robust tradition of challenging things in the north.

“That willingness to discuss and talk and debate makes it very exciting.”

The dame of daytime television will work with Chris Burton, City Talk 105.9 weekend editor, whom she worked with on her popular Channel 5 show. Most Sundays she will broadcast from her home in Norwich.

Station director Richard Maddock said: “Trisha will be the perfect host for our weekend audiences who will be able to call in and talk about the issues that affect them, just like her TV show.

“I think our audience will really connect with her in the same way as they do with Liverpool favourite Pete Price.”

TV star Michael in showbiz chat

ACTOR Michael Brandon is also set to join City Talk.

The star of the 1980s TV series Dempsey & Makepeace, who more recently took the title role in the controversial stage production Jerry Springer – The Opera, will present a weekly show every Saturday from 7pm–8pm.

The 62-year-old will draw on his celebrity lifestyle and friends for the one-hour show, which will be based on showbiz news, both here and abroad, and will include interviews with intern-ational celeb-rities.

Government yes to Liverpool stadium plan

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:14:19 GMT

LIVERPOOL FC were today told the stadium plan they shelved last month could be built on Stanley Park.

Government minister Hazel Blears confirmed she would not “call in” the futuristic proposal approved by councillors last year for further investigation.

But her decision came three weeks after the club’s American owners ditched the scheme because costs had spiralled to more than £400m.

George Gillett and Tom Hicks ordered a redesign of the club’s original ground scheme after taking over at Anfield last year.

The second plan was approved by the council, but it had to be rubber-stamped by the government before work could start.

Liverpool’s latest ground proposals - the third to be drawn up in four years - are being presented to Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry and club owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks in New York tonight. JAN 8

In a letter to the council, Ms Blears said the second plan, which included the Anfield Plaza development on the current stadium site, did not meet the criteria for a call-in.

She said: “Local planning authorities are normally best placed to make decisions relating to their areas.

“It is right that in general, they should be free to carry out their duties responsibly, with the minimum of interference.”

Towering dream for new St John’s

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:13:30 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S St John’s shopping centre is in line for a new look after a multi-million pound makeover to keep pace with the city’s resurgent retail revolution.

Centre owner, the giant property group Land Securities, is proposing to revamp the 60s mall and establish it as a centre for “value mid-market” shopping brands, compared with the existing MetQuarter and the imminent Liverpool One centre soon to open in the city.

Their proposals for the updated centre include two-storey malls, more natural light for shoppers and a new food terrace overlooking Clayton Square, which Land Securities also owns.

Improvements to St John’s worth “tens of millions of pounds” will also feature new flooring, lighting and toilet facilities, as well as improvements carried out with Liverpool council to public areas around the centre.

St John’s Market will be moved to a new purpose-built market hall on one side of Williamson Square.

The whole project could be finished by May 2012 if the plans are given the green light.

Managers say the centre will continue to operate normally throughout the facelift.

The ECHO revealed the first stage of the centre’s revamp in August last year when Land Securities announced plans to build Europe’s biggest TV screen as part of a media wall on the centre opposite Lime Street station.

Nick Davis, Land Securities development director, said at the time: “The media wall will create a stunning impression for visitors to Liverpool over the coming years.”

The public is also being invited to have its say on the latest exciting new proposals and Land Securities has built a new marketing suite in the centre’s St George’s Way, opposite Wilkinson’s and next to the centre management office, which will be open for viewing between 10am and 4pm weekdays from tomorrow and on two Saturdays each month.

Visitors are invited to give their feedback ahead of the plans being submitted to Liverpool council next month.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Liverpool council leader, Cllr Warren Bradley, said “These are exciting times for our city and all of us here in Liverpool.

“I welcome Land Securities’ continued commitment to Liverpool. I believe the plans for St John’s will complement Liverpool’s growing retail offer and I would encourage Liverpool’s shoppers to come into the marketing suite, have a look around and give their own feedback on the plans.”

Nick Davis added: “St John’s is a long-established shopping centre in Liverpool and has always been popular among shoppers.

“Last year alone the centre had 20 million visits. The centre is, however, showing signs of its age and we are hoping to undertake a comprehensive programme of refurbishment.

“The proposals will give the centre a new look inside and out, providing a modern shopping environment for Liverpool city centre.”

Figures released in November last year predicted that Liverpool will rise to sixth place in the UK league table of shopping destinations by 2017, rocketing up from its current 15th place.

And the survey predicts a 33.7% increase in spending over the next 10 years, by far the highest increase of any major city.

New investment in the city’s retail sector, such as Grosvenor’s £1bn Liverpool One scheme and Land Securities’ St John’s revamp, is expected to encourage an annual spendings boost from £1,038,088,930 last year to £1,422,199,897 in 2017.

Further information on the community consultation is available at www.everydayforeverybody.com

A city centre of excellence

ST JOHN’S Centre was opened in 1969 and is the largest covered shopping centre in the city.

It currently houses 105 retail units.

Land Securities owns some of Britain’s best-known shopping centres, such as the Birmingham Bullring and Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, as well as London landmarks such as the Piccadilly Lights and Westminster City Hall.

The property giant, which bought the neighbouring Clayton Square shopping centre in 2005 as part of a £517m deal for seven centres, is investing millions of pounds in urban renaissance and city centre regeneration across the UK.

Their investment includes a £5m refurbishment of the Clayton Square shopping mall.

Jamie Carragher’s fury at spitting yobs

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:12:43 GMT

FANS today told how yobs spat and threw beer at Liverpool star Jamie Carragher as he shook hands with a seven-year-old boy.

Disgusted supporters described how the Reds defender was subjected to a torrent of vile abuse at Luton’s Kenilworth Road on Sunday.

Jamie went over to a group of fans who asked for his autograph after the final whistle in the FA Cup clash.

But as he chatted happily to eight-year-old Hamzah Ahmed he was spat at.

Bystanders said beer was flung over Jamie and X-rated references made to his mother in a filthy tirade.

The 29-year-old jumped up on to an advertising hoarding to remonstrate with the offending supporters.

Fans from a nearby executive box were forced to jump across to confront the gang and stop them abusing the Anfield legend.

Sim Hussain, 31, from Luton, was just a few yards away.

He told the ECHO how his nephew was reduced to tears by the louts.

He said: "It was awful. He was making the kids’ day by coming over and meeting them. He was the perfect gentleman.

"They were swearing at him. The language was terrible and they were even making references to his mother.

"Even then, Jamie just told them to calm down.

"Then someone spat at him and a drink was thrown at him. We had to jump into the box so it all stopped.

"I’m from Luton and I thought what happened was disgusting. He didn’t have to come over. But he did.

"There’s banter. But that was something completely different.

"The lads who did it were aged between 18-22. We’ve been trying to call Luton FC to tell them what happened but they just put us on hold."

Eyewitnesses said the yobs also swore at Liverpool defender John Arne Riise.

But Javier Mascherano even came back over to sign autographs for more fans once the furore had died down.

Today a Liverpool FC spokesman confirmed they had already received three phone calls describing how Carragher was targeted and abused.

He said: "Clearly the behaviour of these fans was completely unacceptable."

One Anfield insider told the ECHO: "The players were warming down on the side of the pitch near the tunnel.

"There were family in the executive boxes and they were running up and down near those boxes.

"They were asked to go and sign some autographs which they did.

"But as they were jogging up and down they started to get a lot of earache from some supporters, some of which was quite nasty.

"Then somebody showered Jamie with a drink, possibly ale, which caused him to briefly react."

It is believed the abuse came from a group of Luton supporters dressed in curly black wigs.

A Luton FC spokesman today said an incident was being investigated by the club’s safety officer.

The clash ended in a 1-1 draw after a battling display from the cash-strapped Hatters.

On Liverpool FC forums Carragher received widespread support from Reds fans.

One said: "Yet again Jamie is standing up for us and showing the passion for his club and city."

Liverpool allege Carragher abuse

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:12:05 GMT

Liverpool say Jamie Carragher was spat at and had beer thrown over him after Sunday's 1-1 FA Cup tie at Luton.

Carragher, 29, was pictured climbing a barrier to confront Luton supporters but neither the Football Association or local police have received complaints.

"Jamie went to sign autographs for youngsters in the executive boxes," said a Liverpool spokesman.

"Unfortunately, he was subjected to a tirade of foul-mouthed abuse and also had beer thrown at him."

606: DEBATE
Your thoughts on the incident at Luton

A Luton spokesman said the incident is being investigated by their safety officer, although could not confirm or deny it took place.

Liverpool will play Luton in their third-round replay at Anfield on Tuesday 15 January.

Predators Online

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 08:55:38 GMT

During our investigation into the vulnerability of youngsters online, we found a number of cases in which teenagers and younger children had been approached by predators on social networking sites.

Panorama researcher
Our researcher set up a virtual identity of a 14-year-old girl on three social networking sites.

Keen to understand more about how this works and, by extension, how children might avoid such dangers, a researcher in our office set up a virtual identity of a 14-year-old girl on three social networking sites. She took on the name Jane Brown and this is her diary.

"I've just moved hear wiv my family. Its well scary starting a new skool, hope I make sum mates soon :-S"

Days 1 and 2

Set up profiles of my new virtual identity as 'Jane Brown' on three different social networking sites.

Jane is a typical 14-year-old girl who likes dancing, singing, watching 'America's Next Top Model' and listening to Girls Aloud.

It seemed to me that there are a number of men out there, with time on their hands, who are using that time to attempt to groom young girls online
She also writes spontaneously and doesn't worry about spelling mistakes.

Jane has just started at a new school and is hoping to make some new friends of her own age.

Each of the three profiles has identical, unprovocative information about Jane and the same three photos of me in my (slightly) younger days.

Days 6-13

Jane checked her different accounts, petted her virtual pet and joined a Hollyoaks group and a 'we love girls aloud' group.

Jane needed to behave like any other 14-year-old and these are the kind of things that 14-year-old girls tend to do on the internet.

Day 14

Mid-afternoon, Jane logged onto one particular site with her profile on it and almost immediately, Lxxx started chatting to her.

Computer keyboard
Jane was asked if she would agree to appear in a peepshow having sex with an older man for a certain sum of money
He quickly wanted to move their conversation from the public space on this site into a private one via instant messaging.

This was to become a regular pattern - men wanting to get Jane out of the public space and into a private area as quickly as possible.

Once on instant messaging, Lxxx's chat quickly turned sleazy:

L: So what are you up to?
J: Just doina bit of homework, well trying to LOL (laugh out loud)
L: I'd like to give you some homework
J: what you mean?
L: sexual homework
J: what do you mean?
L: put my...

A couple of minutes later, Lxxx, who claimed to be 19, said, 'I wish you lived closer so I could take you as a girlfriend'.

He hadn't exactly wooed Jane with his smooth chat up lines to this point and now he was suggesting that Jane might want to consider going out with him.

I wondered how a real 14-year-old would deal with this kind of approach but as I was to discover, this was by no means the worst suggestion Jane would have to cope with.

Day 16

Jane logged onto the same site around 4.10pm. She was bombarded with requests to chat.

Another day, another predator. Rxxxx wanted Jane to be his online daughter and to engage in role-play
It seemed to me that there are a number of men out there, with time on their hands, who are using that time to attempt to groom young girls online.

For example, take Dxxxxxx:
D: hlo bbz asl (It's like learning a new language - mastering this online speak. This means: hello babes age, sex, location?)
J: hi, 14, fem, London U?
D: 14 m Liverpool bbz u got msn? (Again, that desire to move 'Jane' out of the public arena and into a private one).

Day 19

Rxxxx says: You could be my online daughter if you wish.
Jane says: What do u mean?
Rxxxx says: Ever felt that your parents never listen to you...your isolated in your room because no-one understands you, im here to change that.

Another day, another predator. Rxxxx wanted Jane to be his online daughter and to engage in role-play.

Again I wondered how a real 14-year-old, alone in her bedroom, would feel presented with this request - confused, frightened, manipulated?

Day 20

Poor Jane - today she got sent several unsolicited pictures of male genitalia and was asked by Exxxx if she was a virgin to which she replied, 'I'm only 14', only then to be asked if she'd ever engaged in a particular kind of sexual activity.

The most shocking suggestion came today too - Jane was asked if she would agree to appear in a peepshow having sex with an older man for a certain sum of money.

It was shortly after this that we passed on our logs to the police for further investigation.

Any teenagers or younger children who find themselves in similar situations online, should report this abuse via the CEOP 'Report Abuse' facility.

CEOP website

Panorama: One Click from Danger, Monday 7 January 2008, BBC One 8.30pm.

Liverpool’s webcams attract more viewers than ever

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 08:17:06 GMT

WITH THE world's focus on Liverpool for Capital of Culture year, webcams set up in the region are enjoying unprecedented levels of use.

* Dozens of webcams stream live pictures from across the region – and you can now see the best ones on the Liverpool Echo website in our new Merseycams section here.

Our interactive map allows you to click on a link and see the live feed from that location.

Current popular webcams include one of the Liver Building, as seen from a room in the Crowne Plaza hotel on the waterfront.

Famous views of Liverpool are now available via webcam too, including a streaming image of the city's skyline as seen from Wirral.

One set up on Mathew Street is already famous the world over after a viewer in America spotted a burglary taking place and rang police in Merseyside to let them know what was happening.

And you can watch the ever-developing Liverpool One project take shape before your eyes too, while a webcam at Wirral Country Park gives you a bird's eye view – literally – of barn owls nesting.

If there are any webcams you know of that should be included, click on the link below the map and let us know.

Brit could lose kids for good

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:52:55 GMT

BRITNEY SPEARS was last night facing the prospect of being banned from seeing her little boys - until they are grown MEN.

Ex-hubby KEVIN FEDERLINE was given sole custody of sons SEAN PRESTON, two, and one-year-old JAYDEN JAMES until another court hearing.

Calmer ... Brit with boys last year

Calmer ... Brit with boys last year

X17

And the singer’s shocking wild-eyed drugs collapse while in charge of the tots means she may be banned from seeing them until they are EIGHTEEN.

Last night, a court temporarily stripped Britney of all visiting rights - as she was being examined by mental health doctors at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

Court commissioner Scott Gordon ordered another hearing to be held January 14.

K-Fed’s lawyer Mark Vincent Kaplan and Brit’s attorney Tara Scott met with an LA judge to discuss her latest meltdown.

And sources say Federline, 29, will push for a TOTAL ban on Britney having access to the children until they reach adulthood.

The Hit Me Baby star’s spiral into pill-popping despair also means she faces the prospect of being sectioned and held in a mental hospital.

A source close to 26-year-old Britney said last night: “The custody battle with Kevin and the constant attention on her life is too much for her to bear.

“This is going to kill Britney. She loves those kids more than anything. The thought of losing them for so long will destroy her.

“She is a woman on the edge. Her mental state is very fragile. She needs help from professionals - and she needs it now.”

Party time ... K-Fed in club

Party time ... K-Fed in club

Splash

Britney’s meltdown came just 24 hours after she was dumped by her custody lawyers.

They had grown increasingly fed up with her erratic behaviour.

Federline, who was divorced from the star last July and partied with PARIS HILTON last month, has temporary custody of the children.

Britney had only limited visitation rights because she has defied a series of court orders.

She had been ordered to take random drug tests and attend parenting classes to prove she is a fit mother.

The troubled performer was branded a “habitual, frequent and continuous” user of drugs and alcohol by LA judge Scott Gordon.

Bodyguard Tony Baretto also told in bombshell court evidence how he saw the star parade nude around her home in front of her boys.

As a result Federline asked the Superior Court in Los Angeles to cut her rights to see their sons.

He claimed troubled Britney - who is blowing £365,000 per MONTH - was not a responsible mum because she has missed one of the court-ordered drug tests.

Britney tried to explain her bizarre behaviour to the judge by claiming she was suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder.

Last night her legal team was hauled into court by Federline’s lawyers to explain the failed test. They said drugs prescribed for ADD caused the positive reading.

K-Fed also insisted Britney be banned from driving their sons after she was seen crossing a red light with the lads in the back - while sending a text message.

And the star narrowly escaped a hit-and-run conviction in October after agreeing to settle an August car park accident out of court.

Ironically, Britney had been allowed to spend Christmas Day with her children.

It was her first victory after a series of court defeats.

Her latest collapse came hours after she was ordered in front of Federline’s lawyers to be quizzed over her mothering skills.

The singer turned up nearly two hours late for her deposition and was quizzed for just 14 minutes.

Frustrated lawyer Mr Kaplan said Britney would be questioned again at a later date.

He added: “There was no time to develop questions.”

Even Britney’s own dad has been left so worried by her behaviour that he wants her committed.

Jamie Spears has consulted lawyers about staging an “intervention” to get her into therapy. He told pals he is worried she could harm herself or her boys.

Last February Britney went into a week-long meltdown.

After having her hair shaved off at a barber she made an early-hours dash to hospital, begging staff: “Help me.”

Her desperate mum Lynne took in Britney’s sons amid fears Federline would seize custody.

Next day Britney checked into rehab for a second time - but left after just one night.

Within hours, she was back in again after whacking a car with a brolly after banging on Federline’s door, demanding to see her kids.

It came after she was forced to deny allegations she enjoyed wild group sex with other women.

New Cornish UFO sighting pic

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:51:46 GMT

BRITAIN is turning into an alien nation according to Sun readers who have flooded us with reports of UFO sightings.

Following our story of a UFO seen off Cornwall on December 29 we were inundated by calls from people who had similar things all over the country.

Some claimed they had seen alien spacecraft off the same bay in Cornwall where our original UFO was snapped.

A man who asked just to be called Edward snapped a strange shaped object which appeared to be 'buzzing' a Navy ship.

He said: "I was taking photos of the ship when a helicopter from it took off, flew west then landed back on board just a few minutes later.

"It was only when I blew up the photos on my computer that I realised what the helicopter had gone off to take a look at.

"It was in the exact same bay as the one featured in The Sun earlier this week." American holidaymaker Ian Mulford also believes he snapped a UFO at virtually the same spot as Edward.

Ian said:"I was taking photographs and did not see anything unusual at the time, but after reviewing the pictures I found something very unusual in the background of a picture of one of the family.

‘ It didn't look like any normal aircraft so I am sure it is a UFO ’

EYEWITNESS

Partygoer Rodga Harvey claims he snapped a UFO as he made his way home from a party on New Years eve.

Rodga, from St.Ives, said:"It was only when I looked at the photo later that I realised there was this weird flying object in the sky.

"It didn't look like any normal aircraft so I am sure it is a UFO."

Mum of one Rachel Clarke, 25, is totally convinced that she filmed two UFOs flying above the skies above Borehamwood on New Year's Day.

Rachel said: "I was standing on the balcony of a neighbour's house celebrating.

"We suddenly saw a bright light appear in the sky, then another one joined it.

"They both started darting about really fast. They weren't flying around like normal planes, or helicopters.

"Everyone who saw them, and there were about 15 of us, were amazed. I didn't see any green men flying them, but I am sure they were UFOs.

Grandmother Mary Booth, 57, says she saw what she believes was a UFO in Bristol on New Year's Eve.

Click here to find out more!

Mary was standing in her front garden with three other people when they noticed a bright orange, ball shaped object in the sky.

She said: "We live near Bristol airport so I often see planes and helicopters in the sky and this was totally different to them.

"It was standing still in the sky then it moved off above our roof and then took off upwards, getting smaller and smaller.

"I have never believed in UFOs before but after seeing that I think there might be something in them.

"There was no way this was an airplane or something like that. It was really weird and we all saw it."

Britney Spears on suicide watch

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:50:40 GMT

BRITNEY ON SUICIDE WATCH SHE'S LOST THE PLOT ..AND THE KIDS
By Fiona Cummins, Showbiz Reporter 05/01/2008

Britney Spears being taken to hospital in LA Britney Spears being taken to hospital in LA
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Britney Spears was in hospital on suicide watch last night after holding her two sons hostage in a three-hour custody stand-off with armed police.

Doctors fear Britney, who was stretchered from her Beverly Hills home with restraints on her ankles after finally handing over Sean Preston, two, and 15-month-old Jayden James, may have suffered a complete mental breakdown.

Britney, 26, is now allegedly being kept in hospital under California's Code 5150 - known as the "involuntary psychiatric hold".

This legally enables the authorities to detain someone against their will if they are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.
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Click here to find out more!

Use of the 5150 code sparked speculation that the singer had threatened to harm herself or the boys. LA police spokeswoman April Harding refused to comment, but said: "For her own welfare she was transferred to hospital for medical treatment."

Officers were called to Britney's home on Thursday evening after she refused to hand the boys back to aides of her ex-husband Kevin Federline at the end of an official visit.

She is reported to have later barricaded herself and Jayden into a room after allowing Sean to leave with a court-appointed monitor. Police said she seemed to be under the influence of "an unknown substance".

After tense negotiations, during which there were six squad cars, a fire truck and two ambulances at Britney's home while a police helicopter hovered overhead, she agreed to let officers enter.

A source said: "The cops got through the door and tied her down to a stretcher."

The one-time princess of pop was in a pitiful state as she was wheeled from the house and loaded into an ambulance - alternatively laughing hysterically then weeping in despair. Inside the ambulance paramedics seemed to be physically restraining her legs before heading off to LA's Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre with a police escort. As Britney was helped from the ambulance at the hospital she made a one-fingered gesture to waiting photographers.

Legal experts last night said the stand-off had destroyed any hope of Britney winning her vicious custody battle with Kevin Federline.

Federline's lawyers were at an LA court within hours of the siege ending, asking a judge to remove all her visitation rights.

Police were last night awaiting the results of Britney's alcohol and drug tests.

If found positive, she could face charges and be stripped of custody for good. An LA judge has insisted both Britney and Federline, 29, must be drug and alcohol-free while the children are with them.

The showdown came a few hours after Britney gave a long-awaited legal deposition in the custody case.

She arrived at court just after 11.30am - 90 minutes late for a meeting that was due to last two hours. Instead, Britney gave her statement in 14 minutes.

Federline currently has temporary custody of the children while Britney has only limited visits. A judge made the ruling in October after Britney was described as a "habitual, frequent and continuous use of controlled substances and alcohol".

She was allowed to see her sons only if a court-appointed monitor was present. The visits could be ended if the supervisor decided her behaviour endangered the children.

She was also ordered to have random drug and alcohol testing twice a week but has often failed to do so. Britney later won modified visitation rules that let her have one night a week with the boys.

It is thought Britney will be kept in hospital for at least 72 hours while her mental health is evaluated. A source close to the singer's family yesterday insisted that her blood test had come back clean, adding: "Thank God, there were no traces of drugs or alcohol of any kind."

Britney wed Federline in October 2004, three months after they met. They divorced last July.

Wave of pride as Arena opens

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:45:19 GMT

FOR Capital of Culture year, they are the people who have pledged to talk Liverpool up. And after a special event last night at the city’s newest attraction, there’s only one thing most of them will be talking about for the next few days – the Echo Arena, Liverpool.

The proud Merseysiders were first to see inside the monolith which has not only changed the famous Liverpool skyline but the city’s status as an international entertainment venue.

More than 8,000 people who signed up as Capital of Culture Ambassadors, welcoming people to the city, were invited.

Cllr Keith Turner, executive member for resources, attended with his partner, Rosie Jollie, director of Comtechsa, a community architecture firm based on Duke Street.

He said: “It’s stunning and we’ve been looking forward to it for a very long time.

“There were people who said it couldn’t be done and wouldn’t be on time, but they have been proven wrong now.

“It’s symbolic of the city’s regeneration.”

Comtechsa chairman Nigel Mellor added: “Now we don’t have to go to Manchester.”

Echoing this theme was Glen Monoghan, of Formby, along with wife Kathy and two daughters, Alyssa, nine, and Georgie, six.

He said: “It’s always been an embarrassment that we haven’t had an arena up to now and, having looked inside, it’s better than the MEN, GMEX and Wembley which are just vast.”

Aintree-raised Treasury minister Andy Burnham, MP for Leigh, was equally enthusiastic.

He said: “My constituency lies between Liverpool and Manchester and, over the years, maybe Liverpool has fallen behind but this arena begins to change that.”

Mr Burnham was working in Tessa Jowell’s department and claims to have had a small hand in Liverpool winning the Capital of Culture bid.

Many told The Daily Post they were impressed with the scale of the £164m arena which will generate £100m for the city according to council leader Cllr Warren Bradley.

He told the audience: “This will all mean absolutely nothing unless we get long-term, sustainable investment.

“It will inevitably make the city and this area are vibrant places to be.”

Restaurateur Ali Noor, of the Spice Lounge, Albert Docks, was one of many who agreed. He said: “I have been waiting for this for two years. When I bought the restaurant, I thought I was making a good investment but business hasn't exactly been booming down at the docks over the past few years. I thought I had made a terrible mistake.

“However, this arena will bring much-needed trade to the area. It is especially good for me as I am the first restaurant you get to from the arena.”

Bob Prattey, chief executive of ACC Liverpool, called the frantic work behind the scenes to prepare for the opening “heroic”.

He said: “This is the most tangible legacy for what this Capital of Culture has been all about.”

Inside the arena, Radio City DJ and Liverpool legend Pete Price joined with Culture Company deputy chairman Phil Redmond in organising a Mexican wave which ran the length of the venue. Mr Price said: “What we have done tonight is see a bit of history.

“They said it would never happen but look at us all here tonight at the Arena's first ever event. You deserve to be here, good luck looking after all our visitors next year, give them some Liverpool humour and an amazing welcome.”

The stage is now set for the official opening event of the culture year next Saturday with Liverpool – The Musical with Ringo Starr headlining.

City’s webcams attract more viewers than ever

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:42:45 GMT

WITH THE world's focus on Liverpool for Capital of Culture year, webcams set up in the region are enjoying unprecedented levels of use.

Dozens of webcams stream live pictures from across the region – and you can now see the best ones on the Liverpool Echo website in our new Merseycams section.

Our interactive map allows you to click on a link and see the live feed from that location.

Current popular webcams include one of the Liver Building, as seen from a room in the Crowne Plaza hotel on the waterfront.

Famous views of Liverpool are now available via webcam too, including a streaming image of the city's skyline as seen from Wirral.

One set up on Mathew Street is already famous the world over after a viewer in America spotted a burglary taking place and rang police in Merseyside to let them know what was happening.

And you can watch the ever-developing Liverpool One project take shape before your eyes too, while a webcam at Wirral Country Park gives you a bird's eye view – literally – of barn owls nesting.

If there are any webcams you know of that should be included, click on the link below the map and let us know.

The Merseycams map can be found at www.liverpoolecho .co.uk/merseycams

Hands up for the ECHO Arena

Sat, 05 Jan 2008 03:40:49 GMT

THE people of Liverpool welcomed the new ECHO Arena with cheers and a Mexican wave.

Thousands of 08 Ambassadors, volunteers and Capital of Culture business supporters braved wet and windy weather for a first glimpse inside the waterfront venue last night.

Visitors described the 10,600 seat ECHO Arena as “brilliant” and a long-overdue asset for the city.

Michael and Michelle Richardson, from Crosby, brought their children Matthew, eight, and six-year-old Katie.

Mr Richardson, 40, said: “It’s a superb facility to have, long-overdue for a city our size.
Outside the ECHO Arena

“We’ve watched while it’s been built and we were thrilled to come tonight. We’ve also got tickets for the opening ceremony next weekend.”

08 volunteer Rica Bird, 62, from Birkenhead, said: “The building is great and I think it’s right to be called the ECHO Arena – the paper is so well known on Merseyside.”

Marian Catterall, 46, from Childwall, described the arena as “very impressive”.

She added: “I’m looking forward to coming back and seeing a concert. The place looks very big to me.”

Meanwhile, Roger and Sue Dickens, from Halewood, said: “It’s brilliant because now we can have good shows and it will attract the big names.”

Crowds were entertained by up-and-coming Liverpool bands and The Farm.

The band is also taking part in next weekend’s Culture opening ceremony.

Ambassadors were also given a sneak preview of forthcoming Culture year events at the ECHO Arena .

Phil Redmond, who started a “Scouse” Mexican wave with compère Pete Price, said: “The ECHO Arena is brilliant and it’s the perfect size – having just come back from seeing the Spice Girls at the 02 Arena, this is nicer. Why should Liverpool people have to go to Manchester or London to see shows?”

ECHO Arena chief executive Bob Prattey said: “It’s been a heroic effort to get the arena ready on time and I’m glad to say we’re not a Wembley.”

Britney's child custody drama

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:29:02 GMT

BRITNEY SPEARS has left her Los Angeles home in an ambulance after police were called to the mansion last night.

Police said Spears was under the influence of an unknown substance.

Her youngest son JAYDEN JAMES was also taken away in a seperate ambulance.

To see a video of the singer being taken away, click below.

LAPD spokesman JASON LEE said: "Police were called to Britney Spears mansion this evening.

"She was refusing to hand the children over to their father as part of a court order.

"We were called and the situation is now what we call a Code 4 - which means everything is done."

In turmoil ... singer on stretcher

In turmoil ... singer on stretcher

Enlarge

The popstar has been taken to hospital for a possible mental health evaluation, it was reported today.

An ambulance, a fire engine and six police cars were reportedly seen at the singer's home.

Officers were called at 8pm LA time (4am GMT Friday) on Thursday night and were still at the house two hours later, said Officer Jason Lee, a police spokesman.

Spears and ex-husband KEVIN FEDERLINE are fighting over custody of their sons, two-year-old SEAN PRESTON and one-year-old Jayden James.

Earlier yesterday the 26-year-old singer appeared for a deposition in the custody dispute.

Federline, 29, has temporary custody of the children because Spears, who has limited visiting rights, has defied court orders.

Safe ... Sean Preston in car after Britney was taken away

Safe ... Sean Preston in car after Britney was taken away

Enlarge

The two were married in October 2004 and divorced in July.

K-Fed has reportedly visited Britney in hospital to check on her, along with her father JAMIE and close friend OSAMA LUFTI.

More to follow...

Farewell to a footie ace

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:27:28 GMT

FAMOUS faces from the world of football turned out with fans today to say a final farewell to Motherwell captain Phil O’Donnell.

Hundreds of mourners paid their respects to the player who suffered heart failure last Saturday, aged 35.

O’Donnell collapsed towards the end of his club’s 5-3 victory over Dundee United at Fir Park.

Support ... fans turn out

Support ... fans turn out

He leaves his wife, Eileen, and their four children.

Mourners began arriving a full two hours early for the midday Requiem Mass at St Mary’s Church in Hamilton.

But even before that, fans began to line the streets outside in silent tribute to the former Scotland, Celtic and Sheffield Wednesday player.

The early arrivals included Celtic captain Stephen McManus, O’Donnell’s former assistant manager at Celtic, Murdo MacLeod, and former Motherwell manager Maurice Malpas.

Former Celtic team-mates Peter Grant and Pat Bonner were also among the early arrivals.

Tragic ... Phil

Tragic ... Phil

Among the fans waiting to pay tribute was Derek Moore, 33, a Motherwell fan for 25 years, from Carfin, Motherwell.

Waiting in the street outside, he said: “When Motherwell won the Scottish Cup in 1991 and he scored one of the goals, it was one of the greatest days of my life as a Motherwell fan.

“He was just a perfect gentleman, an absolute gentleman, and I’m here to pay my respects for his family.”

Outside the church, floral tributes lined the walls.

One said: “The best Beat The Goalie ever.”

Another from former Celtic player John Collins and his wife, Susan, paid tribute to: “A great man and a great team-mate who will be sadly missed.”

There were also floral tributes from the Lisbon Lions, European football chiefs Uefa and many football clubs, including Dundee United.

Bailed Barton behind spas

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:26:22 GMT

SOCCER bad boy Joey Barton leaves prison last night – to begin a stint at one of Britain’s most exclusive health resorts.

The Newcastle midfielder, 25, will stay at ex-England ace Tony Adams’ Sporting Chance Clinic in the grounds of Hampshire’s Champneys health spa after a judge granted him bail.

Millionaire Barton, now facing charges of ABH and affray, had spent seven days on remand at Liverpool’s Walton Prison, where a picture yesterday showed him grinning nervously, flanked by two hulking inmates.

He's out ... footie ace Joey Barton leaving jail yesterday

He's out ... footie ace Joey
Barton leaving jail yesterday

The Sun told how he was heard crying in his cell amid fears he would be attacked.

Barton, whose career has been dogged by scrapes on and off the pitch, looked set to continue his remand stretch yesterday after lay magistrates rejected a bid to free him.

But he was later let out after a Crown Court judge, sitting in chambers, ordered his release subject to rigorous bail conditions.

These were not disclosed. But it looked likely last night that they were almost identical to those put earlier to Liverpool JPs – when it was suggested Barton should stay at the high-profile sporting clinic.

Sporting Chance, at Forest Mere near Liphook, helps athletes battle “destructive behaviours”. The 158-acre site, in a beauty spot overlooking a picturesque lake, was given a £14million facelift in 1995 and has twice been voted Spa of the Year.

Clients eat at the award-winning Champneys restaurant and use the plush spa’s gym, swimming pool and sauna.

Ex-Arsenal star Paul Merson was treated for a gambling addiction at the centre, which also provides rehabilitation for sex addicts and those with eating disorders.

Barton, already a regular, may face a curfew and must follow strict rules and be guided by drink rehab guru Peter Kay.

Mr Kay said: “It’s not tea and sympathy and he’ll be in at 8am until 10.30 at night.

Plush ... Champneys resort in Hampshire

Plush ... Champneys resort in Hampshire

“I feel he’ll benefit much, much more coming to us than remaining behind bars.

“I am not suggesting he has an addiction to alcohol, but I would like the chance to educate him about the dangers of drink.”

Scouser Barton, who has a luxury Widnes home, was held in Liverpool after police were called to a brawl. A charge of common assault was yesterday altered to a more serious Assault Causing Actual Bodily Harm.

The star’s brother Andrew, 19, and Nadine Wilson, 28 – thought to be Barton’s girlfriend – were also arrested. The footballer returns to court on January 16.

Last night Newcastle United refused to say if £50,000-a-week Barton would be considered for selection after his release.

McCanns are prime suspects

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:24:55 GMT

ANGUISHED Kate and Gerry McCann are facing up to living as suspects over their daughter’s disappearance for another TWENTY years, it emerged yesterday.

A legal expert revealed that is the length of time prosecutors have to decide whether to press ahead.

Antonio Martins, president of the National Syndicate of Portuguese Judges, claimed their complex case risks “dragging on for as long as the prosecuting counsel sees fit”.

He told newspaper Diario de Noticias: “The problem is that no one knows what crime was committed. If it was homicide, suspects can still be tried for another 20 years. If it is abduction, it is 15.”

The harrowing prospect arose as Portuguese police finalised a report outlining their theories and describing their evidence.

Strict

Until recently, strict secrecy laws have protected them from having to reveal what evidence they have against formal suspects – known as arguidos.

File ... Gerry

File ... Gerry

But under a new code they have to go public after eight months.

Their report into how Madeleine, then three, vanished from her family’s holiday apartment in Praia da Luz on May 3 is set to be passed to prosecutors today.

It says Kate and Gerry – both 39-year-old doctors – remain prime suspects. And it is thought the report may be used by prosecutors to dramatically request a six-month extension to the eight-month deadline.

Meanwhile newspaper Correio da Manha claimed the dossier suggested the McCanns could even end up being charged with perjury and wasting police time over the hunt for Madeleine.

Kate, looking gaunt as she drove from the family home in Rothley, Leics, would not comment.

But the couple’s official spokesman Clarence Mitchell insisted: “Kate and Gerry are entirely innocent.

They will continue to push for their arguido status to be lifted and hope that the prosecutors will see that there is no case for them to answer.

“They believe that the prosecutors will see it is right for their arguido status to be lifted.

“We know nothing about this police report, and we have not been told officially there is one.”

A source close to the family said: “Kate and Gerry are devastated by reports about this dossier. It is the last thing they want at this time.

“They had nothing to do with Maddie’s disappearance.

“Every minute that is spent on trying to press charges against them is time wasted in the search for Madeleine.”

Edward Smethurst, the lawyer conducting the McCanns’ defence, said: “We have received no information to suggest that the court file is going to be opened today and indeed we believe it’s likely that it will be some time before the court file is made available.

“Any report about the leaked document we believe is completely without substance. We think it arises out of pure speculation on the part of the Portuguese press.”

It is understood the dossier does NOT rule out 34-year-old British expat Robert Murat as an arguido.

Still suspect ... Murat

Still suspect ... Murat

The theory that Madeleine was kidnapped topped the police’s list when Murat was made a suspect on May 14 and still forms part of the report.

But as time went on the police veered away from the abduction theory, believing more evidence pointed to the little girl being murdered.

Correio da Manha said Murat will have to wait until the case against Gerry and Kate is dropped before he can be cleared – adding that prosecutors rarely partially file a case if there is more than one suspect.

Meanwhile it was also reported that formal requests to interview the McCanns’ holiday pals – dubbed the Tapas Seven because of the restaurant they were at when Madeleine disappeared – will be handed in to court officials in Portimao today. From there, they will be sent to the UK.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith will then decide whether she will give the green light to Leicestershire police to carry out the interviews.

Solving

The “letters of appeal” are thought to contain 100 questions that Portuguese detectives want British police to ask.

They hope to sit in on the interviews to monitor facial expressions and responses.

The Portuguese police believe that in the absence of conclusive DNA tests, “inconsistencies” in original statements could hold the key to solving the case.

Only once the friends have finally been questioned will police turn their attentions back to the McCanns, it was claimed.

Amazingly, sending the letters was delayed because court officials do not deem the case to be “urgent” – so no work was done on it over the Christmas holidays.

Cases only receive an “urgent” status if suspects are in custody or under house arrest. Chief magistrates have the power to tag any case as “urgent” but have not done so in Madeleine’s.

Liverpool in the top 10 holiday hot spots!

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:19:02 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S Capital of Culture status has propelled it into an elite list of favourite worldwide holiday destinations.

The city makes a welcome entry at number 10 in a table which includes the likes of New Zealand, Abu Dhabi and China.

It is the only British place to make the register drawn up by top travel website Expedia.

It was compiled following a survey of more than 14,000 regular travellers who were asked where they would most like to visit this year.

Researchers believe Liverpool’s high-profile status for 2008 and international attractions such as the Tall Ships Race and MTV Europe Music Awards can be credited for its appearance.

Capital of Culture is expected to attract an extra 1.7 million visitors to Liverpool which has always held an appeal to foreign tourists thanks to its Beatles heritage and football clubs.

The year-long Capital of Cul ture celebrations are officially launched next weekend with events at the ECHO arena and St George’s Hall plateau.

But the likes of the Liverpool Nativity and the New Year’s Eve extravaganza at Liverpool cathedral have already won national acclaim.

Merseyside’s director of tourism Martin King said: “To be in a worldwide top 10 list with the likes of New Zealand and China shows how far the city has come in its appeal to travellers.

“We are expecting a bumper year in terms of both visitor numbers and hotel bookings and I know these visitors will not be disappointed when they arrive.”

Top spots

1. New Zealand
2. Argentina
3. China
4. Cape Verde
5. Abu Dhabi
6. Alaska
7. Reykjavik
8. Berlin
9. Boston
10. LIVERPOOL

A city full of good sports

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:17:53 GMT

AS year of Culture arrives, David Prentice profiles a sports extravaganza
Liverpool and Everton fans

ONE of the many definitions of the word culture is “accomplishment”.

And this city has a record of sporting accomplishment second to none.

Capital of Culture? We’ve long since regarded ourselves as the UK’s unofficial capital of sport.

We’ve won more football trophies than any other English city (77 and counting) and spent more seasons in top flight football than any other. In fact Liverpool is the only English city to have hosted top flight football every season since the league was formed in 1888.

Liverpool boxers have brought more glory to their home city than any other outside the capital.

The region boasts the current rugby league world champions while the oldest golf championship in the world – The Open – will be staged on our doorstep for the second time in three years.

We’ve staged the world’s greatest steeplechase since 1839. We can claim a rich athletics, cycling and motor-racing heritage.

And in the discipline of gymnastics we have a reigning world champion.

We intend to celebrate that sporting culture energetically and enthusiastically throughout 2008.

The Grand National meeting will be staged at a sumptuously refurbished and stylishly redesigned Aintree racecourse for the 161st time between April 3-5.

Three weeks later, on April 24 – the life of arguably the greatest football manager of all-time will be celebrated at the Liverpool Olympia.

An Audience with Shankly stars one actor, plays 45 minutes each way – the first half in black and white then the second half in colour.

It’s a live television event in a theatre using digital recording technology and giant projection screens – a cross between a personal audience with Bill Shankly, the legend and the myth and an in-depth documentary about Liverpool FC and Match of the Day.

At the same venue, starting May 6, the life of the greatest goalscorer football has ever seen will be celebrated when the curtain goes up on Dixie Dean.

Staged to herald the 80th anniversary of the Everton striker’s unassailable record of 60 League goals in a single season, the show will climax a series of community-wide events in salute of the man who took the art of scoring to new heights.

The same weekend, Liverpool hosts the British Open squash championship, first staged in 1922 and considered the world’s most important, prestigious and longest-established squash championship.

It’s known as the squash world’s Wimbledon. And the sport which involves the real Wimbledon is back in Calderstones Park between June 19- 22.

Tennis legend Bjorn Borg was scheduled to appear in last summer’s Liverpool International, until a neighbour’s dog took a chunk out of his leg. But the Swedish icon is expected to return to play a competitive role in this year’s event.

It’s not the only highlight of a sizzling sporting summer.

The Mersey shoreline has long boasted the finest golf links in the world, and just two years after The Open championship was staged at Royal Liverpool, the sport’s oldest championship returns to the region at Royal Birkdale.

Would it be too much to ask for a local winner? It last happened in 1879 when Harold Hilton won over his home course of Hoylake. But in Nick Dougherty, the city can claim one of the sport’s brightest talents who in 2007 led the US Open after Day One.

Liverpool’s tradition for cycling is impressive with champions like Bradley Wiggins, Chris Boardman, Joey McLoughlin, Doug Dailey and David Lloyd all hailing from the region.

And in 2008 the city’s streets are set to host the finale of world-class cycling spectacular The Tour of Britain.

The race has traditionally ended on Whitehall in London but Liverpool will take the honours in 2008.

Former Olympic gold medallist and world record holder Chris Boardman said: “I’m sure the event will have a real impact on the city.

“Cycling races are not just for elite riders they are a reason for people to get together and enjoy the party atmosphere.

“The race will attract even more people to the city and keep Liverpool firmly on the map.”

The Tour climaxes in September, the same month which sees the culmination of the World Firefighter Games at the ECHO Arena – a biennial event which has already graced Auckland, Edmonton, Las Vegas, Perth, Durban, Hong Kong and now Liverpool. More than 50 sports are included in the week-long event.

November 5 is, of course, Bonfire Night, and fireworks are expected at the ECHO Arena when the opening bell will be rung on the 40th European Boxing Championships.

Stephen Smith brought a bronze medal home from the last European Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, in 2006, England’s sole medallist.

This year, on home soil, we’ll be hoping for a few more.

In addition to the scheduled events, of course, football’s Carling Cup Final is staged on February 24, the FA Cup Final on May 17, UEFA Cup final on May 14 and Champions League Final on May 21 – offering plenty more possibilities to celebrate the sporting year.

Expert’s view

“SPORT is my life. I’ve grown up with sport and that’s my passion. Without sport I’d be a totally different person.

“The first thing you think about with Liverpool is Liverpool Football Club or Everton. But we’re also one of the top boxing cities and gymnastics and swimming is also very strong.

“The council do everything they can to try and help sport within the city.

“And it’s not just necessarily for elite level, it’s at grassroots level too - for kids to get involved and have fun.

“There’s plenty to watch and get involved in during 2008 including the tennis, the golf and the boxing. And the World Firefighter Games should be a hot ticket.

“The Commonwealth Games in Manchester showed without volunteers you can’t put on an event. And there are also those who don’t want to take part in sport themselves but who love watching it.”

BETH TWEDDLE, Champion gymnast

Choice for 08

David Prentice on sporting events

The Open Championship: Just two years after Tiger Woods triumphed at Hoylake, golf’s oldest and still most prestigious championship returns to Merseyside. Royal Birkdale has seen golfing greats Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Lee Trevino and Peter Thomson carry off the claret jug – but last time it was staged on the Southport links the lesser known Mark O’Meara was champion. To see who can triumph this year ring the R and A on 01334-460000 or e-mail tickets@randa.org

The Grand National Meeting: As much a social event as it is a sporting attraction, the three-day Aintree Festival is a highpoint of any cultural calendar – especially now that the racecourse has been refurbished, redesigned and restyled. Buy advance tickets on 0151-522 2929, or hospitality on 0151-522 2911. Online bookings at www.aintree.co.uk

European Boxing Championships: The 37th championships come to the ECHO Arena from November 5. An official qualifying event for the Beijing Olympics, the tournament will be the most prestigious amateur boxing spectacle ever staged in a city with a rich fight game tradition. Many of the fighters on show will become Olympic gold medallists. Contact the ECHO Arena later in the year on 0844 8000 400 for ticket details.

Liverpool International Tennis Tournament: June 10-15 at Calderstones Park. The now established tennis festival features a colourful and high class mix of the leading tennis stars of today and yesteryear. Drink Pimms, eat strawberries and watch high class sporting action in – hopefully – the summer sunshine! Tickets on sale from January 16 on www.liverpooltennis.co.uk

* The Liverpool ECHO Sports Personality of the Year: Now in its 36th year, but its first at the brand new ECHO Arena – the glittering night of the stars is staged on Monday, February 4. Call the ECHO Events department during business hours on 0151-472 2805. Find out more about the event here

£100m boost to Liverpool as ECHO Arena targets smashed

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:15:39 GMT

THE ECHO Arena opens today - providing a £100m boost to the Merseyside economy in its first year.

The complex, which includes the BT Convention Centre, is expected to beat all cash targets, generating 40% more business than predicted in 2005.

Officials said both waterfront venues were already proving more popular than anticipated.

About £40m will be brought into Merseyside from gigs and performances at the ECHO Arena, including the MTV Europe Music Awards.

The other £60m will come from the money-spinning convention centre which will welcome big-spending delegates attending events such as the LibDem conference.

The influx of visitors to Kings Dock – previously a windswept car park – will benefit hotels, bars, restaurants and taxi drivers.

ACC chief executive Bob Prattey said: “The original targets set for the teams working for both the ECHO Arena and convention centre have been well and truly smashed already for 2008.
Inside the new Echo Arena, from left Kris Donaldson, acting chief executive Liverpool Culture Company, Warren bradley, leader of Liverpool city council, and Bob Prattey, chief executive of ACC Liverpool, sample the seats on the front row

“In both the ECHO Arena and convention centre we have taken about 40% more business than was first being forecast.

“That has had a knock-on effect on the economic impact of the facility which means we are now on course to deliver £100m of spending by visitors.

“That is fantastic news for everyone, from restaurants and hotels to cab drivers, and is a real testament to just how much people want to come and visit the city in 2008.”

More than 8,500 Capital of Culture ambassadors and volunteers were invited to tonight’s event at Kings Dock for a sneak preview of the venue before its official opening on Saturday January 12.
ECHO Arena

It is the first of more than 100 performances already booked for the 10,600-seater ECHO Arena this year including Girls Aloud, the X-Factor tour and WWE Wrestlemania.

That total is topped by the convention centre where 160 organisations are booked in.

Britney stretchered out of home

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:08:02 GMT

Britney Spears has been carried out of her home on a stretcher and taken into custody after police were called in a dispute involving her children.

"While officers were at Britney's home they found that Britney appeared under the influence of an unknown substance," officer Jason Lee told the BBC.

"She is being taken into custody for evaluation," he added.

The 26-year-old singer and ex-husband Kevin Federline are wrangling over custody of their two young sons.

'Breakdown'

Police were called to Spears' home at 2000 local time (0400 GMT) over a family custodial dispute that they tried to resolve "peacefully by court order", Mr Lee said.

After nearly three hours, Spears reportedly handed over her children, two-year-old Sean Preston and one-year-old Jayden James, to Federline.

Federline has temporary custody of their children because Spears, who has limited visitation rights, failed to comply with court orders.

The pop star's lawyers filed a court motion earlier this week asking to be relieved as her representatives due to a "breakdown" in communication.

Spears and Federline were married in October 2004 and divorced in July 2007.

Daniel gives specs to city Holocaust memorial

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 04:18:05 GMT

HARRY POTTER star Holocaust memorial Daniel Radcliffe has become the latest big name to donate glasses to an artwork to remember Holocaust victims.

The piece is part of Liverpool’s month of events leading up to the memorial day on January 27.

Radcliffe’s Harry Potter co-star, Liverpool-born Jeremy Isaacs, will lead the main event on January 27 in a commemorative ceremony at the Philharmonic Hall.

Britain’s chief rabbi Sir Jonathan Sachs and Archbishop of Canterbury, the Rt Rev Rowan Williams, will head the memorial.

Radcliffe, famous for his role as the boy wizard, has given his first pair of glasses to the Respectacles project, a piece inspired by images of the Holocaust.

Celebrities including Yoko Ono, Jerry Springer, Paul O’Grady and Ronnie Corbett have also donated glasses.

More than 1,000 pairs have now been donated and the public are invited to add more before its unveiling on January 21.

Oh, Brother, what a night!

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 04:17:06 GMT

LIVERPOOL celebrities turned out to watch one of the city’s most famous shows.

Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers has recorded one of the longest continuous runs in the West End since opening in 1988.

But it returned to the city where it was born at the Empire on New Year’s Eve and was given a standing ovation at a special showing last night.

Among the stars in the stalls were former Hollyoaks actress Terri Dwyer and top model Abbey Clancy, girlfriend of Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.

Beatles for sale - to flog nappies!

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 04:16:13 GMT

THE Beatles could soon be for sale after reports advertisers may be given permission to use the Fab Four’s music in their campaigns.

But music giant Sony says people will need more than cash to secure the right to use some of the world’s most famous tunes.

It maintains the final product must enhance the original music’s reputation.

One of the first deals already struck is for the 1967 classic anthem All You Need is Love to be used in a nappy advert.

Proctor and Gamble was given the go-ahead to use the song in its marketing campaign to spread the word about Luvs’ Bear Hug stretch nappies across the US.

Mark Rolland, of advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi which created the advert, said: “The song helps us break through the diaper advertising clutter and simply communicate to mums that Luvs diapers are ‘all you need’ to keep your baby happy.”

Martin Bandier, chief executive of Sony/ATV, is reported as saying: “The thought and the song were ideal for morning TV when young mothers are watching.

“We thought it was very tasteful.”

More than 250 songs, the majority of the Beatles’ catalogue, are owned by Sony/ATV.

It is understood a small number of those have been authorised to be used in ad campaigns – but only if they are recorded by someone else.

Sony has also authorised the use of samples of Beatles songs into other tracks created by rappers and hip-hop artists, with rap collective Wu-Tang Clan's The Heart Gently Weeps recording their own version of George Harrison’s While My Guitar Gently Weeps to use in the new single.

The Beatles lost control of the group's song rights in 1969 when their publishing arm Northern Songs was sold to Lew Grade's ATV Music.

Ownership of ATV later passed to Australian entrepreneur Robert Holmes a Court and in 1985 Michael Jackson bought the rights to the 259 tracks, outbidding Sir Paul McCartney.

He formed a partnership with Sony in the 1990s.

Finalists unveiled for Liverpool Capital of Culture song contest

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 04:15:29 GMT

THE finalists are today unveiled in the Song for Liverpool competition.

People have a week to vote for their choice in the battle to create a new anthem for Liverpool in its Capital of Culture year.

The contest is being run by Radio City through the Open Culture initiative and is backed by the ECHO, Daily Post and Radio Merseyside.

Radio City received hundreds of entries to create a new song to mark culture year.

Station manager Richard Maddock said: “We had everything from male voice choirs to instrumental pop and rock tracks. It was a very difficult job to whittle them down to just five.

“We got a shortlist of 25 and then the finalists were decided on by the Open Culture board.

“The quality of them is superb and illustrates once again the unsung talent there is in Merseyside.

The finalists are:

Danny Guy – Liverpool (World in One City)

Tony Flynn – Liverpool Home

Phill Jones – The Pool of Life

Steve Connolly – The World in One City

Steve Mason – City of Wings

They were announced by presenter Simon Ross on Radio City’s breakfast show today and all the songs are now available to hear by downloading them from www.radiocity.co.uk

People are also asked to vote on the website and the winner will be announced on January 10.

They will be professionally recorded at Merseysound Studios and be played on Radio City 96.7; Magic 1548 and BBC Radio Merseyside.

Open Culture was launched by Phil Redmond in June last year with the backing of Merseyside media organisations. It is aimed at giving Liverpudlians the chance to take part in the 2008 celebrations.

The first project under the Open Culture umbrella was the Liverpool Saga, an 800-line poem created by Radio Merseyside from thousands of lines of verse sent in by listeners and ECHO readers.

Our sister paper the Daily Post is creating a “map” of Liverpool, and the ECHO will launch a bench design competition later this month.

Tower transmits classical music

LIVERPOOL’S tallest building was playing host to Classic FM today.

The radio station relocated from its home in the heart of London to Beetham's West Tower to mark the start of Capital of Culture year.

It is the first time in Classic FM's 15-year history the station has broadcast an entire day’s output from outside London.

The station – at 100-102FM – was showcasing recordings from its Orchestra in the North West, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic.

Diary

Jan 3: 2.30pm and 7.30pm - Blood Brothers, Liverpool Empire (until Jan 26). 0844 847 2525.

Jan 3: 7pm - Emilia de Liverpool, St George’s Hall (until Jan 5). 0151-709 3789.

Jan 3: 2pm and 7.30pm - Aladdin, Everyman (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 3: 1.30pm and 7.30pm - Flint Street Nativity, Playhouse (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 3: 2pm and 7pm - Cinderella, Royal Court (until Jan 13). 0870 787 1866.

Jan 3 : Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 3: 3pm and 7pm - Pinocchio, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 3: Fresh Jazz Festival, various venues (until Jan 6). Visit www.liverpoolphil.com

Jan 4: 08 Supporters event, ECHO Arena. Ticket only.

Jan 5: 7.30pm - Wayne Shorter and RLPO, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 6: Messiah, RLPO. Sold out. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 6: Cbeebies live, ECHO Arena. 0844 8000 400.

Jan 7: Anne Frank exhibition opens, Liverpool Cathedral.

Jan 9: 7.30pm - Shall We Dance, RLPO. 0151-709 3789.

Thought for 08

“IF there's one thing I try to live by, it is the ‘do harm to others and it’s returned to you thricefold’ philosophy. This can be difficult, especially in the political arena, but I do try.

I believe that you can never go back, nor should you try.

“If I look at the mistakes I've made in the past, and I've made some corkers, they have in some way taken me forward. As Jung said ‘There is no coming to consciousness without pain’.”

Cyber thieves target social sites

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 03:01:13 GMT

It is not just the average net user who is a fan of social network sites, so are hi-tech criminals.

So say security professionals predicting what net criminals will turn to in 2008 to catch people out.

The quasi-intimate nature of the sites makes people share information readily leaving them open to all kinds of other attacks, warn security firms.

Detailed information gathered via the sites will also help tune spam runs or make phishing e-mail more convincing.

Friendly faces

There was no doubt that 2007 was the year that sites such as MySpace, Facebook, Bebo, Orkut rose to prominence as millions of people signed up to use them and started posting information about themselves and what they were up to.

But in 2008 these sites will become an attack vector for the hi-tech gangs who are now behind the vast majority of cyber crime.

Mary Landesman, senior security researcher at ScanSafe, said social sites would prove popular for two reasons.

"The technologies that play there and the third party add-ons make it an environment that is susceptible to compromise," said Ms Landesman.

Already at the end of 2007 Brazilian users of Google's Orkut were subject to an attack by a worm that tried to steal bank account details. The malicious program, which also tried to hijack compromised computers, propagated via booby-trapped links placed on the personal page of Orkut users.

Still other attacks have tried to capitalise on the popularity of video clips seen on sites such as YouTube by putting booby-trapped links on pages that show the short films.

Alongside technical vulnerabilities in the networks go other problems with the amount of information that people share on social networking sites.

Online bank login screen, BBC
Social sites help make phishing attacks look more plausible
This data can give criminals knowledge about the names of employees at a company, insight in its managerial make-up or information about its processes to lend credibility to other attacks.

"That information can be very specific, very focused," she said. "It can mention company names, actual events and people."

This information, said Ms Landesman, could help attackers embarking on social engineering attacks which attempt to con employees by posing as another worker or a business partner.

David Porter, head of security and risk at Detica, said the apparent familiarity of social network sites, which often help people build connections with people who share their interests and outlook meant many people were cavalier with their personal information.

"It is remarkable that people use social networking websites to publish details about their lives, loves, jobs and hobbies to the entire world that they would not dream of sharing with a stranger in a bar," he said.

"Such data is invaluable to identity fraudsters," he said.

This move to exploit social network sites would also fuel a move away from attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system to gain control of a PC or steal data.

Far better for the criminal, said Paul King, senior security advisor for Cisco, is to use those phishing e-mails to exploit the end user.

"So many attacks now are nothing to do with an exploit. It's about persuading you to click a link," he said. "There's no vulnerability involved in you clicking on that. None."

The big challenge in 2008 for individuals and companies was coming to terms and recognising the sheer number of threats ranged against them.

But, he said, consumers and PC users should not feel stifled by all the potential security problems.

There were a lot of benefits to using social networking sites, said Mr King and the downsides should not put people off using them.

"It's about trying to manage risk rather than avoid risk," he said.

Holy blockbuster! Batman role for Liverpool

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:30:07 GMT

THE CAPED Crusader is set to make Liverpool a tourism hotspot in 2008.

Experts today predicted the star appearance of the city’s waterfront in this year’s Batman film would attract visitors from around the world.

Directors cast Liverpool in The Dark Knight after visiting the city in 2006.

The final cut of the movie - set to become one of the biggest hits of 2008 - has not yet been seen, but it is believed the city’s famous waterfront plays a major role.

VisitBritain, the country’s tourism body, said the film would prove an irresistible draw for visitors known as “set-jetters”.

It picked out Liverpool alongside London as one of the UK’s tourism hotspots for 2008, with Capital of Culture identified as a massive draw.

Officials believe tourists will now flock to the city due to the combined lure of a Hollywood blockbuster and a packed programme of cultural events.

The Dark Knight will again star Christian Bale as a sequel to Batman Begins. It is due for release in July.

Other UK landmarks, such as London’s Piccadilly Circus and Battersea power station, will also feature.

Tom Wright, chief executive of the national tourism agency, said: “If the right film is chosen, it acts as free advertising for a destination, location or attraction.

“Showcasing destinations through film helps maintain the popularity of our beautiful landscapes and countryside.”

The optimism followed a rallying call from regeneration chiefs.

Cllr Mike Storey, executive member for regeneration, said: “The message is definitely getting through that 2008 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase this city.”

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to visit Merseyside over the next year for events including Sir Paul McCartney’s concert at Anfield and the MTV Europe music awards.

Lawyer expects Madeleine McCann suspect to be cleared

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:28:48 GMT

THE lawyer for Robert Murat, the first suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, today said he expected him to be cleared.

There has been speculation the Portuguese authorities could conclude their inquiry into the case of the missing British child as early as tomorrow, eight months after she vanished from the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz.

Francisco Pagarete said he did not know if the case would end tomorrow, or January 14 – eight months after Mr Murat was named the first “arguido”, or official suspect, in the case - or if there might be an extension of some months.

Madeleine’s parents, Gerry and Liverpool-born Kate, are also arguidos.

Mr Pagarete said: “My feeling, my instinct, is that they will clear Robert, but I can’t say it for sure.

“I don’t know when the inquiry is going to finish but my legal opinion in this case is that there is no need for any extra time.

“The evidence gathered by the police is strong, and enough to clear Robert.”

Asked what implications such a move could have for the McCanns, Mr Pagarete said: “I don’t know if the evidence goes against other people, our goal is just to clear Robert. “

Capital of Culture: People's Opening

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:27:33 GMT

TWO miles of fibre optic cable, 80 tonnes of lighting and 20,000 trees will be used to create the spectacular Capital of Culture People’s Opening next week.

Four cranes, four performing forklift trucks and 40 aerial performers will also be used in the free show on St George’s Plateau.

The event on Friday, January 11, headlined by Ringo Starr, starts a weekend of celebrations launching 2008.

Nigel Jamieson, who designed ceremonies for the Sydney Olympics and Manchester Commonwealth Games and is artistic co-director with Liverpool’s Jayne Casey, said: “The ECHO Arena show on January 12 sold out in hours but for those without a ticket there’s still plenty to see, including the People’s Opening at St George’s Plateau.

“The People’s Opening promises buckets of spectacle, emotion, humour and surprises with music ranging from Ringo Starr to the Wombats.

“It’s for the people of Liverpool and it’s free.”

Organisers are also using 50km of cable, 60 tonnes of containers, 100 tonnes of staging and structures and 14 tonnes of speakers in the ambitious production. A choir of 200 will perform, while an extra 150 schoolchildren will also take part in the event.

It will start at 20:08 (8.08pm), celebrating Liverpool’s artistic triumphs and highlighting the year to come.

Mr Jamieson said: “It will be an historic night for Liverpool – 40 minutes which hopefully will offer memories of a lifetime.”

What will 2008 mean to you?

BRIAN ROSCOE, 63, a retired builder from Garston, said: “It will be a massive change and a shock for the city.

“I think it will bring a lot of people together, and bring the pride back into Liverpool. The Beatles put us on the map years ago and I think the Capital of Culture will have the same kind of effect.”

PAULA CARNEY, 31, a cleaner from Liverpool city centre, said: “I have friends who live in Glasgow and they said when it was Capital of Culture it did great things for the city. So hopefully it will do the same thing for Liverpool.”

Thought for 08 . . .

"CREATIVITY is essential to everyone, either personally or professionally. People from all walks of life can be united by creativity; either appreciating the end product or taking part in the process.

"Creativity has a lot to offer industry and business and we need to make sure that all employees, employers and business people understand that.

"Winning European Capital of Culture shows how key creativity is to Merseyside; to its people, to its economy and to its future. We need to ensure that we continue to search out and value the creative talent this city has to offer not only in 2008, but well beyond."

KEVIN McMANUS, Creative Industries

Culture Diary

Jan 2: 7.30pm - Blood Brothers, Liverpool Empire (until Jan 26). 0844 847 2525.

Jan 2: 7pm - Emilia de Liverpool, St George’s Hall (until Jan 5). 0151-709 3789.

Jan 2: 7.30pm - Aladdin, Everyman (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 2: 7.30pm - Flint Street Nativity, Playhouse (until Jan 12). 0151-709 4776.

Jan 2: 2pm and 7pm - Cinderella, Royal Court (until Jan 13). 0870 787 1866.

Jan 2 : Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 3: 3pm and 7pm - Pinocchio, Unity Theatre (until Jan 19). 0151-709 4988.

Jan 3: Fresh Jazz Festival, (until Jan 6). Visit www.liverpoolphil.com

Jan 4: 08 Supporters event, ECHO Arena. Ticket only.

Jan 5: Anne Frank exhibition opens, Liverpool Cathedral.

Jan 5: 7.30pm - Wayne Shorter and RLPO, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

It’s kick-off day for Everton's £400m stadium

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:24:56 GMT

EVERTON FC today presented their plans for a Kirkby stadium to Knowsley council.

The club and supermarket giant Tesco formally submitted their £400m proposal to build a new home for the Blues and a shopping district south of the existing town centre.

Town hall planners will now start scrutinising the Destination Kirkby scheme before councillors decide whether to approve it – possibly as soon as the spring.

Tesco, which would bring in developer Barr to build the stadium and shops, would then want to start work later this year.

The proposal focuses on a 50,000-seater replacement for Goodison Park, a 24-hour Tesco Extra store and about 50 high street shops south of Cherryfield Drive.

It also includes “development opportunities” for the existing town centre, including an unnamed leisure scheme and a six-figure investment in Kirkby market.

Significantly, the scheme features about £10m of road improvements and work designed to reduce the impact of the huge development on surrounding areas.

The possible negative effect of Everton moving to Kirkby on traffic and anti-social behaviour have been the main point raised by residents and Knowsley North Labour MP George Howarth so far.

The club and Tesco will hope the details contained in the planning application will ease their concerns.

Otherwise, the prospect of the government “calling in” the scheme for closer scrutiny could raise its head, delaying work by months.

Everton chief executive Keith Wyness said: “This represents the next key stage in what has been a complex and demanding process.

“We continue to work closely with our partners, Tesco and Knowsley council, and we remain very optimistic about what is a hugely ambitious and significant project.”

The application says exact designs for Tesco’s proposed revamp of Kirkby market would be agreed before a more detailed plan is submitted to the council.

Although a majority of Everton season-ticket and shareholders voted in favour of the move outside the city boundaries last summer, some fans and Kirkby residents oppose the idea.

Campaign group will battle on

THE campaign group against the Kirkby move today welcomed the news.

Dave Kelly from Keep Everton In Our City (Keioc) said: “What has been apparent from day one is the lack of detail produced by Everton, Tesco and Knowsley council.

“Now the planning application has gone in, the severity of this scheme and its impact will finally come home to people.

“In the past it has been very difficult for people to object just to a proposal; they feel they can only object once it is a firm plan.

“I know other councils will be equally pleased the planning application has gone in, and they will want to look at it in very close detail.

“They are concerned about the impact of this development and we think there is a chance they will try to have it called in by the secretary of state.”

Shirley Stankowski, from Kirkby residents action group (Krag) which is also campaigning against the stadium, said: “We were expecting this because letters went out before Christmas saying the application was imminent.

“It will now be interesting to see it. We welcome regeneration of our town centre. But not at any cost and certainly not a football stadium and everything it would bring.

“There are alternatives without a stadium which could be done.”

Gangland shooting revenge fears

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:24:03 GMT

A MEMBER of one of north Liverpool’s most well-known families has been shot in the stomach, sparking fears of revenge attacks.

Danny Gee was blasted at point-blank range by a mystery gunman in Anfield at 5.30am on New Year’s Day.

Neighbours around Pulford Street today told how they feared the attack could spark tit-for-tat shootings in the area.

Mr Gee, 28, was shot once but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

He was taken by friends to the Royal Liverpool hospital, where he was being treated today.

Mr Gee is one of four well-known brothers from the notorious Grizedale estate in Everton.

Police yesterday cordoned off alleys and side streets and part of Walton Breck Road. They also mounted high-visibility patrols to reassure residents.

A man in his 20s wearing a grey tracksuit and a black hat, and thought to be the gunman, was seen fleeing the scene.

Detectives believe nobody other than Mr Gee and the gunman were involved in the incident.

The motive behind shooting is unclear. Police were today investigating the theory they had arranged to meet each other.
New Year's Day shooting in Anfield

Locals said they thought it was linked to an attack on a house in Rockfield Road, Anfield, in the past month.

They said they feared the incident could spark a backlash of tit-for-tat shootings in the city.

One woman said: “There was that many fireworks going off that it was impossible to hear any gunshots.

“I came outside my house in New Years Day and there were police swarming everywhere. The buses have stopped and nobody can get to the shops.

“People know of Danny round here and it’s a shock to wake up and see all of this. What a start to 2008.”

One resident said a bottle had been thrown through the window of a house on Bagnall Street moments before the shot was fired.

Yesterday, the glass was still smashed and a black bin bag had been taped over the gap.

Merseyside police said a statement would be taken from the victim when he was well enough to speak to officers.

Merseyside police Operations Superintendent for Liverpool North, John Martin, said high-visibility patrols would be stepped up in the area to provide reassurance.

He said: “This was a targeted attack and there are a number of lines of inquiry which we are following.

“Because of the time it took place, we would expect people to have heard or seen something and we would ask them to come forward.

“We will be increasing the police presence to reassure the public.”

There have been a series of shootings in Liverpool over the past few days, including Toxteth and Broadgreen, but police say they did not believe the incidents were connected.

Man shot in stomach in Anfield

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:40:51 GMT

A MAN is in hospital after being shot in the stomach in Liverpool.

The 28-year-old suffered a single bullet wound in the attack in the Anfield area of the city at around 5.30am today.

A spokeswoman said the victim suffered a single abdominal wound which is not life threatening.

She added: “Although the motive remains unclear it is believed this was a targeted incident.”

Officers have embarked on house to house inquiries and the street has been sealed off for forensic examination.

Police are particularly keen to speak to a man wearing a grey tracksuit and black cap who was seen running away from the area.

Year we glow for 2008

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:39:55 GMT

OVER 700,000 revellers saw in the New Year with London’s biggest celebration since the Millennium spectacular.

The skyline was lit up by a £1.3million firework display — the most expensive to be staged in London.

The stunning spectacle around the London Eye cost £130,000 a minute, with ten fireworks exploding every second as crowds gasped along the river banks.

Olympic imagery was beamed onto the nearby Shell building, with the event being used to plug the 2012 Olympic Games.

Click here for slideshow

Leicester Square was packed, too, as families waved glow-sticks, blew whistles and set off a fusillade of camera flashes with police happy to pose for pictures.

Meanwhile, billions celebrated around the world.

One of the last countries to see in the new yearwas Samoa who celebrated at 11am GMT.

Earlier Hawaii hula-ed its way into 2008 at 10am GMT.

The tiny French colony of the Marquesas Islands crossed into the new year at 0930 GMT, just half an hour after Alaska and French Polynesia.

Los Angeles was one of the last major cities to turn to 2008 when New Year celebrations started at 8am GMT.

Earlier, more than a million people gathered in sub-zero temperatures to watch the famous Times Square ball drop for the 100th time in New York at 5am GMT. Organisers drafted in an energy efficient ball for the occasion.

Student Reid Medlin, 21, said: “I think the best part is being here with friends,” Medlin said as confetti floated down on him and people kissed around him. “This was beautiful. It makes you appreciate everything.”

The Times Square new year’s ball tradition began a century ago with a 700lb (317.5kg) ball of wood and iron, lit with 100 25-watt incandescent bulbs.

This year’s event featured an energy-efficient sphere clad in Waterford crystals, with 9,576 light-emitting diodes that generated a kaleidoscope of colors.

And in New Hampshire, about 20 same-sex couples decided to be the first to take advantage of the state’s new gay weddings law with midnight marriages on the Statehouse steps in Concord.

In Rio, Brazil, two million people dressed in gleaming white were thronging the Copacabana beach as they celebrated at 2am GMT.

Meanwhile festivities had already begun across Europe.

At 3am GMT the celebrations continued in South America as Santiago, Chile and Paramaribo in Surinam saw the New Year in.

The Falkland Islands also saw 2008 in at 3am.

At 4am GMT the partying moved on to Halifax in Canada, leaving the USA still anticpating the New Year.

In Edinburgh 90,000 cheered in 2008 at a massive street party.

Tourists from around the world joined in the traditional celebrations and people in fancy dress packed into pubs.

Headline act Kasabian thrilled the crowds — but X Factor winner Leon Jackson was forced to pull out after falling ill with tonsillitis.

Poorly ... Leon Jackson

Poorly ... Leon Jackson

Getty

Leon, 19, whose debut single When You Believe was at No1 one for a second week yesterday, said: “I’m disappointed to be letting people down, but it wouldn’t feel nice to get on stage and not deliver.”

More than 70,000 took to the streets in Glasgow.

Casablanca, Belfast, Dublin, Cardiff and St Peter Port in Guernsey also partied at the stroke of midnight

A piece of UK soil had already watched the fireworks as Gibraltar waved goodbye to 2007 at 11pm GMT.

Ljubljana in Slovenia joined Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Spain in greeting the new date at 11pm our time too.

Celebrating ... crowds in Princes Street, Edinburgh

Celebrating ... crowds in
Princes Street, Edinburgh

Luxembourg, Monaco, Oslo in Norway, Gdansk in Poland and Vatican City also saw in 2008.

And Andorra, Brussels, Bratislava and Podgorica in Montenegro raced to catch up with Finland, Romania and Latvia, who had seen in the New Year an hour earlier.

2008 arrived for Helsinki, Finland; Athens, Greece; Bucharest, Bulgaria; Odesa, Ukraine; Sofia, Bulgaria; Tallinn, Estonia and Riga, Latvia at 10pm GMT.

Elsewhere, also at 10pm GMT, Tel Aviv in Israel, Amman in Jordan and Ankara in Turkey celebrated.

Africa also partied as Cairo in Egypt, Gaborone in Botswana and Tripoli in Libya saw in 2008 along with Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Cape Town in South Africa.

New Year had already been greeted in Russia as the people in Moscow and Saint-Petersburg saw midnight arrive.

And a new era also started in Baghdad and Basra as our forces saw 2008 in on foreign soil at 9pm GMT.

Other parts of Iraq had already celebrated the arrival of 2008 as Masshad heralded the dawn of a New Year at 8.30pm GMT.

Also celebrating at the same time as Moscow were Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Nairobi in Kenya, Kuwait City, Aden in Yemen and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.

Abu Dhabi also saw in the New Year at 8pm GMT.

Previously Uzbekistan welcomed in 2008 along with Karachi, Pakistan, Male in the Maldives and Ashgabat in Turkmenistan as it turned 7pm GMT in the UK.

Half-an-hour before, New Year came for a host of cities across India including New Delhi, Mumbai, Delhi and Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Countries around the world have been seeing in the New Year throughout the day.

Kathmandu in Nepal celebrated at 6.15pm GMT, following Dhaka in Bangladesh at 6pm.

At the same time, it was 12am in Astana in Kazakstan, Thimphu in Bhutan, Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan and Novosibirsk in Russia.

Revellers were celebrating in Rangoon in Burma as their clock struck midnight at 5.30pm GMT in Britain.

And while it may have been 5pm in the UK, Jakarta in Indonesia, Hanoi in Vietnam, Bangkok in Thailand and Hovd in Mongolia were celebrating the arrival of 2008.

The clock struck midnight in Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, ushering in the New Year at 4pm GMT.

At the same time people were celebrating 2008 across the region with celebrations in Beijing, Shanghai in China and Hong Kong, Taipei in Taiwan, Manila in the Philippines, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Singapore, to name a few.

Click here to find out more!

China kickstarted its Olympic year with a New Year bash of fireworks, singing and dancing at a countdown party.

The event, put on by the organisers of the Summer Olympics, saw Beijingers flock in the cold to the Millennium Monument.

The sake flowed in Tokyo at 3pm GMT as the Japanese celebrated the new year.

And the country’s three main mobile phone carriers urged holidaymakers to hold off calling family and friends or sending messages from their phones in the first two hours of 2008 to prevent a system overload.

“We will try to deliver as many ’congratulations’ as we can, but we may have to restrict services temporarily,” read an advert in the nation’s major newspapers today.

The celebrations were also cracking off in Seoul in South Korea, Perth in Western Australia and Jayapura in Indonesia.

Australians in Darwin earlier raised a glass at 2.30pm GMT for the end of the year.

Big Bang ... fireworks explode over Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House

Big Bang ... fireworks explode over
Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House

They followed their countrymen in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Hobart who partied as 2008 rolled in at 1pm GMT, with celebrations kicking off in Adelaide at 1.30pm GMT and Brisbane at 2pm GMT.

Revellers in Sydney earlier had a taste of what was to come at midnight with a stunning fireworks display.

Australians lined the foreshores to witness 'The Time Of Your Life' fireworks display over Sydney Harbour, as the first round of fireworks for children lit up the sky at 10am GMT.

In the same time zone as Brisbane were Vladivostok and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in Russia, Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea and Guam and Saipan in the USA Mariana Islands.

Norfolk Island in the Pacific Ocean had already said hello to the new year as the clock struck 12.30pm in the UK.

The inhabitants of the Australian territory welcomed in 2008 on the island's capital of Kingston.

Big Bang ... fireworks explode over Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House

Sparks ... fireworks in Auckland

Revellers in the capital city of Suva in Fiji celebrated 2008 at midday GMT today.

But the first people to raise a glass were in Auckland, where midnight struck at 11am GMT our time.

Fireworks cascaded from the top of Auckland's Sky Tower and there were also celebrations in Christchurch and Wellington.

They were joined in the Pacific Ocean where Tonga and Kiribati in the Phoenix Islands celebrated 2008.

Join us as we bring you images of the worldwide celebrations on the hour, throughout the day.

* Wherever you're celebrating the New Year, we want to hear from you. Upload your pictures by pressing the comments button below.

Maddie search gets twin focus

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:37:44 GMT

THE stepped-up search for Madeleine McCann had a twin focus last night – on Robert Murat and Morocco.

Several new leads said to be “significant” have emerged from the North African country and are being urgently followed up.

And a British barrister has revealed he saw a man looking strikingly like suspect Murat lurking near Kate and Gerry McCann’s holiday flat on the night Maddie vanished.

Suspect ... Murat

Suspect ... Murat

SOLARPIX.COM

He is the NINTH witness to challenge the ex-pat’s alibi that he was with his mum at their nearby home in the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz.

The new push to find the lost four-year-old comes after numerous recent appeals by Kate and Gerry generated fresh leads.

The pair, both 39-year-old doctors, begged for information in a postal blitz on 11,500 homes and businesses in Morocco.

Detectives believe Maddie was stolen to order by a paedophile – and was spirited away to be kept by a “carer” in Morocco’s Rif mountains.

Investigators from the Metodo 3 agency hired by the locals and tourists to look out for Maddie.

There have been a string of possible sightings in the country.

Click here to find out more!

The most significant came in September when doctor Naouhal Malhi claimed she saw Maddie being bundled into a taxi in Fnideq.

Mrs Malhi tried to clamber into the cab – heading to the village of Housima.

But a woman holding the girl would not let her in.

The middle-aged woman, from the Berber ethnic minority, would have paid £180 for the taxi trip – a month’s wage for most Moroccans.

Lost ... Maddie

Lost ... Maddie

And she paid for every seat in the cab so the driver would not pick up anyone else.

The Sun told last week how two British sisters had become the seventh and eighth witnesses to pinpoint Murat, 34, near the McCann apartment.

And the middle-aged barrister, their neighbour in a holiday complex, told cops he spoke to one of them at the time and also spotted Murat.

Last night it was revealed Kate McCann has always been suspicious of Murat.

A source close to her said: “She feels there are questions concerning him that need to be answered.

“There is a body of evidence contrary to what he is saying.”

#

DO you know the barrister? Call us on 020 7782 4105.

Steven Gerrard's SAS protection squad

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:35:03 GMT

England soccer star Steven Gerrard has hired a crack team of former SAS soldiers to protect his family after a terrifying raid.

The 27-year-old Liverpool captain took drastic action after his wife Alex Curran was threatened at their £4.5million home while he was playing in France.

The security men, whose regimental motto was Who Dares Wins, are now guarding Gerrard's home around the clock.

A friend said: "Stevie just felt that something had to be done to protect his wife, himself and his children. The safety of the ones he loves was the priority. These guys will now be there for him 24 hours a day. The family can sleep soundly." Alex confronted four masked men after hearing noises downstairs at their mansion in Formby, Merseyside, last month.
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Click here to find out more!

As daughters Lilly-Ella, three, and one-year-old Lexie slept, Mirror columnist Alex came face-to-face with the gang. They threatened her with violence before escaping with a large haul of jewellery.

Gerrard was told of the robbery at the end of a Champions League game against Marseille.

Alex, 25, was still in a state of shock when her husband arrived back home in the early hours.

The player was clearly upset the next day when he talked about his wife's ordeal. He said he was just relieved that no one was hurt but friends said he was angry his home had been raided while he was away.

A friend said: "Steve was livid. It was the work of cowards, hitting a property where they must have known there was only his wife and children there.

"Stevie was just the latest of several Liverpool players whose homes had been raided while they were playing away.

"The club started to look at ways to provide cover for the players' houses whenever they were away.

"But Stevie realised he needed something a bit extra and that's how he came to get involved with these specialist guys."

Ken Dodd stops the show after minor surgery

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:31:52 GMT

KEN DODD has been forced to cancel his New Year Happiness show tonight after having minor surgery.

The 80-year-old comedian was taken to the Royal hospital yesterday morning after completing two sell-out performances at the Philharmonic Hall on Friday and Sunday night.

A spokesman for the veteran comic said he would not be able to do tonight’s show at Birkenhead’s Pacific Road Arts Centre or Sunday’s performance at St Helens Theatre Royal.

The St Helens event has been rescheduled for February 12, with a date to be announced for Birkenhead soon.

His spokesman was not specific about what treatment was carried out. He said: “Ken had to have a little procedure carried out in hospital, something that needed doing and the staff at the Royal have been marvellous.

“It’s nothing serious but he’s very sorry that, although everything went very well at the Philharmonic, that he’s had to disappoint the people who were due to see him. ”

Now’s the time to show pride in our great city

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:30:35 GMT

AT LAST – Liverpool’s long-awaited date with destiny has arrived. The first chapter of a new beginning as European Capital of Culture.

Today, we mark the end of a nine-year pilgrimage of preparation. We start an open-ended journey of fulfilment.

Without doubt, this year will change Liverpool for ever.

Apart from the physical fabric of the city, the coming 12 months will alter the perceptions of our people, as well as those who visit and share in their experience.

Overground, underground and high in the sky, Liverpool is being reinvented, providing a time for reflection as well as anticipation.

Certainly, 2008, and all that it encapsulates, means different things to as many different people.

But, indisputably, it means Liverpool as the UK’s other capital: happy not to be, like London, a series of disparate districts connected by Tube, but rather a visitor- friendly thoroughly engaging large-scale village.

Liverpool, as the Capital of Culture judges realised, makes the ideal and intimate stage for a big show.

A city less than two miles in diameter, which can be comfortably crossed on foot within 40 minutes, and where people know and greet each other.

That’s why the judges loved it here. That’s what made it – uniquely – a people’s victory.

Liverpool’s bid included spoken testaments from people across all of its communities, backed up by the enthusiasm of 20,000 schoolchildren.

A place like no other. A place which, for most of its 800-year history, has consistently punched above its weight.

During the 100 years from 1807 to 1907, Liverpool became, per capita, the most influential city in the world. And it has remained, right up to present, a city with a high profile.

When Liverpudlians are not making the news, they are writing it, commenting on it, or presenting it on TV.

Readers of the world’s top travel magazine, Conde Nast Traveller, overwhelmingly thought Liverpudlians the cheeriest people in the UK.

What they may not have realised is that the famous Scouse humour has so very often been that of survival.

During the two decades from 1966, 800 factories closed. By 1986, unemployment in Speke was as high as 50%. Fazakerley and Kirkby were not far behind.

Half of those on the dole were aged 16 to 25, the very age group that was also leaving Liverpool at the staggering rate of 12,000 a year.

And there was more turbulence ahead. The mantra of Militant might have been jobs and services, and there may have been a period of increased house building, but the ultimate result of this unprecedented political turmoil was to be years of government under-investment, mirrored by the suspicion, even derision, of the private sector.

Council taxpayers were getting some of the worst services in the country and paying the most for them.

Culturally, the landscape could not have been bleaker. Each and every theatre in the city either closed or was threatened with closure.

The future of the Philharmonic was precarious. The prospects for our museums and galleries so appalling that they were funded directly by Whitehall to avoid extinction.

Fast forward now to 1999; UK cities were being invited to compete for the title of European Capital of Culture in the seemingly far-off year of 2008.

The government said the title should go to “the city which would be most transformed by winning the title”.

There was nothing to lose and everything to gain. Liverpool was about to take its greatest-ever leap of faith.

The competition, founded in 1985, and based on a suggestion by the singer Nana Mouskouri, had already produced a long list of cities of culture as they were then known.

Successful places had included actual capitals such as Athens, Paris, Berlin and Stockholm.

But gradually the template changed. Capital cities themselves were excluded, while the newly-styled ‘capitals of culture’ were provincial bases.

This is what makes our challenge so special. It falls to Liverpool to single-handedly represent the entire UK on a pan-European and global stage.

But nothing can be achieved without cash.

By the end of the year, Capital of Culture will have cost, since 2003/4, around £107m. This is a significantly higher figure than first envisaged.

Of that, almost £70m will be from the council, and £31m from the government, its agencies and other public bodies.

The government, despite the extra billions pumped into the ever-spiralling plans for the 2012 Olympics, says it has made its final contribution. It even refuses to help with the £10m anticipated for policing costs for 2008.

There remains a council shortfall of £20m, to be paid by either borrowing, remortgaging or selling assets, or raiding emergency funds, including those for national or natural disasters.

All this could add one per cent to city council tax for the next five years.

But that must be set beside the hoped-for massive increase of 1.5m visitors, nudging tourism spending towards £1bn, with £200m of that Beatles related.

One of the true tests here will be how many of the of 14,000 extra jobs anticipated in the culture sector will be maintained.

There was always going to be a gamble involved.

En route our city became the only capital of culture designate to have a grand run-up of five themed years: education, faith, the sea, performance and heritage

That in itself was an exceptional demonstration of longer-term vision.

There was the inspirational use of the slogan ‘The World In One City’, reflecting Liverpool’s unrivalled cultural mix.

And physically, Liverpool was - and still is – changing beyond recognition.

There is the 10,000-seater waterfront Liverpool ECHO arena; a new museum of Liverpool under construction; a renovated and expanded World Museum attracting record numbers of visitors, and a new International Slavery Museum, already open.

To these can be added Europe’s biggest shopping development, based around Paradise Street, and the cruise liner berth, in operation, and due to be expanded from a stop-over to full-accredited terminal.

In addition, there has been the advent of Liverpool’s international arts biennial; the recent Turner Prize based at Tate Liverpool, plus the outstanding news of the MTV Awards for 2008 coming here in October.

All positive results, which should not be allowed to be eclipsed by some unfortunate political fall-out.

Undoubtedly, these clashes shouldn't have degenerated into embarrassing side-shows.

But why should personal flak (and even some incompetence) ultimately be allowed to overwhelm a good idea?

We already know – and are proving – Capital of Culture has to be more than balloons and fireworks.

This year’s best events will be the ones that involve most people – most notably the close of the International Clipper Race or the presence of the Tall Ships.

Liverpool’s hour to redefine itself has finally come, both in terms of the image it transmits and the benefits it reaps.

Yet not until Capital of Culture has in some way come down your street, knocked on your door, and made your life better, can it be said to have truly worked for everyone.

Those goals will only be achieved through long-term vision and accountability.

We must take this opportunity to enjoy, but also to take stock of where we are, and decide where we want to be.

That means the best minds and most influential people in the city, sitting down to set targets for education, transport, health, law and order, retail and leisure.

Ultimately, the cities of the future will be marked out by the quality of life they contain, and creativity will be central to that revolution.

As the city with Britain’s best artistic CV – past and present – we are ideally placed to showcase our talents

Today our great city seizes a hard-won, well-deserved trophy with both hands and holds it high.

We wish a very happy – and proud – new year to all our citizens.

New Year in prison for footballer Joey Barton

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:29:27 GMT

JAILED footballer Joey Barton saw in the new year locked in a prison cell after being charged over a brawl in Liverpool city centre.

Sources at Walton prison said New Year’s Eve in the jail was treated like any ordinary day for inmates, an evening meal followed by lock-up at 6pm.

The 25-year-old Newcastle player, who grew up on Huyton’s Bluebell estate and was on Everton’s books as a youngster, will be treated no differently from any other inmate while in jail, added the source.

He said: “Joey would have had his evening meal between 3.45pm and 5.45pm and then been sent back to his cell and locked in for the night, until 7.30am on New Year’s Day.

“New Year’s Eve is no different than any other day inside. There are no special meals or changes from routine.

“He has been very quiet so far. He is on a normal wing and has not needed segregation or protection from other prisoners.

“It was probably a very sobering experience to spend New Year’s Eve just in a cell without all the usual celebrations.”

The £6m star was remanded until January after appearing before Liverpool magistrates on Friday.

Barton, who has one England cap, is charged with common assault and affray following two alleged incidents in Church Street in the early hours of Thursday.

The footballer, his brother Andrew Barton, and 27-year-old Nadine Wilson were all arrested.

Andrew Barton, 19, from Widnes, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and affray.

Wilson, from Huyton, was charged with common assault and affray. Both were bailed to appear in court in the new year.

Barton already faced two allegations of criminal behaviour before the incident on Thursday.

He faces trial on charges of assault against former Manchester City team-mate Ousmane Dabo and was on bail over an allegation of criminal damage involving a Liverpool taxi driver.

Barton is scheduled to appear before magistrates via video link on January 3.

City’s year in Culture limelight

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:28:04 GMT

MUSIC giants, acting legends and flocks of Superlambananas will lead the stampede of entertainment during Capital of Culture year.

Hundreds of events are planned across the city over the next 12 months.

They take in music, sport, theatre, dance, comedy, film, art, festivals, maritime events, lectures, carnivals and exhibitions.

The year starts in style next weekend with Ringo Starr leading the opening celebrations outside St George’s Hall and in the new ECHO Arena.

See the ECHO each day for a calendar and details on individual events.

Some of January’s highlights include Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers at the Empire, Liverpool music legends at the Number 1 Project arena concert on January 19, the Everyman’s Three Sisters on Hope Street and a series of events around National Holocaust Memorial Day.

February brings Chinese New Year and the Taverner Requiem at the Metropolitan Cathedral.

And in March king of comedy Ken Dodd presents two shows at St George’s Hall celebrating Liverpool’s unique laughter makers.

On March 15 the Bluecoat reopens after its multi-million pound revamp.

In April Ben Johnson’s Portrait of Liverpool is unveiled at the Walker Art Gallery while over at the Olympia people will have the chance for An Audience With Shankly.

Elsewhere there are two Viennese Balls with the RLPO at St George’s Hall.

May opens with Sir Paul McCartney’s award-winning Ecce Cor Meum at Liverpool Cathedral and includes a host of highlights, from Welsh legend Bryn Terfel at the Phil to Klimt at the Tate, together with the start of the Liverpool Comedy Festival.
Paul McCartney

Macca is back on June 1 to head the Liverpool Sound concert at Anfield.

June also includes the Design Show at the Metropolitan Cathedral and Benjamin Britten’s stirring War Requiem at Liverpool Cathedral.

July is maritime month with the return of the Clippers and the start of the Tall Ships race.

In August music and carnival takes centre stage with the Imagine Festival, Mathew Street Festival and Creamfields.

At the end of the month the city hosts the hotly-contested World Firefighter Games.

Sir Simon Rattle, Tracey Emin and the Cycle Tour of Britain arrive in the city in September along with Eric’s the Musical at the Everyman and the fifth Liverpool Biennial.

With barely time to draw breath October sees the return of the QE2 to the Mersey for one last time, the prestigious Riba Stirling Prize for architecture broadcast live on TV and the designs of the most famous architect of the 20th century Le Corbusier on show.

The European MTV Awards arrive at the ECHO Arena on November 6.

* HIS witty and irreverent cartoons have delighted readers over a 40 year career.

Now Mike Williams is to turn his attention to Liverpool’s Capital of Culture year.

The 67-year-old former Quarry Bank High school pupil will be bringing 2008 to life in entertaining cartoon form in the ECHO throughout the year.

Mike, who lives in Wirral, trained as an illustrator and became a freelance cartoonist, creating memorable sketches for Private Eye, the Spectator, and Punch where he became cartoon editor.

City takes lead role in opera

A CITY set among mountains and forests – that’s how one of Italy’s most famous composers of opera saw Liverpool.

Gaetano Donizetti’s Emilia di Liverpool (Emily of Liverpool) fuelled the romantic 19th century notion of Liverpool as a glamorous far-away place.

Our city would be already well-known in Italy as a great international seaport.

Donizetti was 27 when he wrote this semi-serious work for the opera at Naples in 1824.

Like many of the maestro’s 75 operas, it fell into obscurity with the passing years.

The first and only other Liverpool revival was in 1957 – to mark the 750th anniversary of the city’s royal charter.

And singing the leading role on that occasion was none other than the later renowned Joan Sutherland. The staging to launch Capital of Culture – in the exquisite setting of the renovated small concert room at St George’s Hall – is by the Hope University-based European Opera Centre.

The production, based on a completely new musical edition prepared by the centre, is sung in Italian with English sub-titles.

Until Saturday. Tickets £25 and £35. Tel: 0151-709 3789.

JOE RILEY, Arts Editor

Thought for 08...

I CAME to Merseyside house hunting just before I joined the ECHO in 1994.

As we drove around the city centre my wife was weeping silently in the seat beside me. In my first few days I was asked to entertain some VIPS and asked where was the best restaurant in town. I was directed to a deserted first-floor Italian joint where ill-mannered waiters threw badly-cooked food at us.

Now, to drive around the city centre is to be inspired by the scale of change, to be awe-struck by the Liverpool One development, by the towering apartment blocks, by the ECHO Arena. To go for dinner is to face an ever-growing choice of excellence and diversity.

If 08 is cancelled today it will still have been a success, such is the confidence it has given us, and the deadline for improvement it has created.

ALASTAIR MACHRAY, Liverpool ECHO Editor

* ARE you doing anything to celebrate 2008 Capital of Culture? If so we want to hear about it.

Our promise for 2008 is to cover all your events in the Liverpool ECHO or online at www.liverpoolecho.co.uk. E-mail our backpack reporter Sam at samantha.parker@liverpool.com or call her on 0151 472 2401

Diary

Jan 1: 2.30pm - New Year’s Day Prom, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 1: 7.30pm - Blood Brothers, Liverpool Empire (until Jan 26). 0844 847 2525.

Jan 1: 3pm - Emilia de Liverpool, St George’s Hall (until Jan 5). 0151-709 3789.

Jan 1 : Nicholas Williams’ triptych, Liverpool Cathedral (until Feb 1)

Jan 3: Fresh Jazz Festival, various venues (until Jan 6). Visit www.liverpoolphil.com

Jan 4: 08 Supporters event, ECHO Arena. Ticket only.

Jan 5: Anne Frank exhibition opens, Liverpool Cathedral.

Jan 5: 7.30pm - Wayne Shorter and RLPO, Philharmonic Hall. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 6: Messiah, RLPO. Sold out. 0151-709 3789.

Jan 6: Cbeebies live, ECHO Arena. 0844 8000 400.

Fireworks and songs at Liverpool Cathedral

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:27:00 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S Capital of Culture year was born in fire to mark the start of 2008.

The date was spelt out in spectacular firewriting as fireworks cascaded from the roof of Liverpool Cathedral at midnight.

Searchlights also illuminated the side of the sandstone cathedral and the Love and Joy Gospel Choir sang Auld Lang Syne, while the magnificent Great George bell rang out.

The 14.5ton bell tolled 12 times as 12 candles were lit before the turn of the New Year.

The event was attended by the Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Rev James Jones and the Archbishop of Liverpool, the Most Rev Patrick Kelly.

There were cheers and applause as Bishop James told the gathered crowd: “God bless Liverpool.”

Archbishop Kelly described the next 12 months as “a significant year” for the city.

Ron Beesley, 74, from West Derby, said: “2008 is a special year in Liverpool.

“It’s the Capital of Culture, but people don’t realise its the capital of the world. Liverpool is the greatest.”

2008 - It's our year

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:26:06 GMT

THE countdown begins today to Capital of Culture’s grand opening weekend.

Ringo Starr will lead the celebrations over two nights in the city.

The ex-Beatle will appear on top of St George’s Hall on January 11 as part of a major free “People’s Opening” involving a cast of hundreds.

The next night the former Fab Four drummer will take part in the official opening at the ECHO Arena.

Phil Redmond, who is spearheading the cultural programme for 2008, said: “I think January 11 is a good example of what the whole year is going to be about.
The monumental pillared front of St George's Hall

“People will just come and enjoy what’s on offer in the city. The St George’s Plateau show is designed for people to walk up and enjoy.

“If there are a lot of people there they will have overflow screens.

“The theme is just like the sports guys bringing the cup home. It’s about bringing home the culture.”

Nigel Jamieson, co-artistic director for the opening weekend, said: “It’s been a thrill working on the Liverpool Opening and I think it is going to be an amazing weekend.

“The Arena show sold out in hours. But for those without a ticket there is still plenty to see including the People’s Opening – the moment when the Big Dig becomes the Big Gig.”

A series of events will be held over the next 12 days as the city prepares to don its party best.

They centre around a major “12 days of culture” community arts programme.

Phil Redmond said: “The 12 days of culture starts today and works right up to the opening.
Phil Redmond

“I don’t think people will be able to miss it.

“There will be guerrilla comedy and drama with people jumping on and off buses and appearing in shopping centres.”

The programme includes transport animation in the city’s neighbourhoods from January 3-6, with comedy drama on buses and music on Merseyrail trains.

Meanwhile, musicians, comedy acts and visual artists will perform at city shopping centres including Belle Vale and the New Mersey Retail Park, in Speke.

On January 7, Arts in Regeneration launches its Belonging – The Gathering initiative.

It will hold workshops also shown on internet webcasts and a multi-cultural event at Granby Adult Learning Centre to gather memories, stories, photographs, poems and wishes.

Ten sheltered housing schemes across the city will hold Capital of Culture parties on January 7-8.

On January 8 a sofa will appear on the streets of south Liverpool as part of the Be My Guest project staged by arts organisation Encounters.

People will be invited to sit down and listen to memories and stories about the area.

In exchange they will be asked if they would like to tell a story of their own.

Ruth Ben-Tovim, from Encounters, said: “For us it’s a celebration of the people and their lives, of people’s shared memories and stories about how it used to be, current life and hopes for the future.”

Also on January 8 the Everyman and Playhouse will start a week of workshops working across four community settings close to the theatres.

During that week schoolchildren will gather together for a Big Sing.

In Alt Valley the Bluecoat will host its own versions of TV quiz shows including Play Your Arts Right, The Generation Game and Family Fortunes.

There will also be bingo with prizes including tickets to some of the 2008 highlights.

The fun continues through January 11 with the Albert Dock among the organisations hosting events for January 12 in conjunction with the 2008 launch at the ECHO Arena.

Culture company acting chief executive Kris Donaldson said: “The whole year is shouting about what’s great about this city and using a year of culture to do that.

“We want to change perceptions about Liverpool and share a Liverpool not a lot of people know about.

“The city has been waiting so long for this and we haven’t been able to share the programme with the people as early as we wanted.

“We know there are thousands of people in Liverpool who are going to be involved in making this year happen.”

catherinejones@liverpoolecho.co.uk

What's going on, and where...

JANUARY 11

ST GEORGE’S Hall: 8.30pm-11pm - the venue’s heritage centre will be open to take visitors on a journey back to the Victorian era.

World Museum: 8.30pm-10pm - National Museums Liverpool and charity Plan International launch a new international twinning project involving 80 Liverpool schools to highlight environmental change.

JANUARY 12

AROUND the city: noon-4pm - guided tours of Liverpool to include parks, St George’s Hall and world heritage sites.

Bold Street: noon-4pm - Waterstones hosts a signing by a famous Liverpool author while Microzene will host talks on Liverpool’s fashion culture and how the city is responsible for the birth of casual attire.

FACT: 11am-7pm - design your own hot air balloon with artist Luke Jerram (11am-1pm). Music and visuals will come from Liverpool/New York VJ Jackie Passmore while electronic percussionists Powerplant will play and Jump Ship Rat’s Ben Parry will drive his Musical Milk Float around Ropewalks.

Albert Dock: 4pm-late - Live music at venues including Babycream, Blue, Ha Ha Bar, Pan Am and Winea.

Literature: poets will read specially-written verse on the culture of Liverpool at various venues.

Painting and sculpture: Albert Dock galleries including the Tate will be open until 11pm.

Theatre: street theatre company Shiverpool will scare passers-by with their tales of the Albert Dock and theatrical street artists will bring the dock to life.

Film: several short films made in Liverpool will be screened in the site gallery’s biennial cinema.

Light: ships in the dock will be lit up to celebrate Capital of Culture.

9m view New Year fireworks on BBC

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:22:35 GMT

About 9.2 million people were watching New Year fireworks on BBC One as 2008 began, overnight estimates suggest.

Figures reflecting the audience in the 15 minutes after midnight show another 2.7 million tuned into ITV1, for Take That's concert at London's O2 arena.

A further 2.6 million watched Jools Holland's Annual Hootenanny on BBC Two.

BBC One in England, Wales and Northern Ireland screened fireworks from London, while viewers in Scotland saw the separate Hogmanay Live show.

Several methods are used in the assessment of TV ratings.

A screen grab showing Gethin Jones, Nick Knowles and Myleene Klass
Gethin Jones, Nick Knowles and Myleene Klass were on BBC One
As well as the quarter-hour figures, broadcasters are also given totals reflecting the average audience throughout a whole programme.

When these were taken into account, BBC One's coverage scored an average of 6.3 million viewers, which was about 200,000 higher than last year.

Holland's music programme came second, on 2.9 million.

And the live broadcast of Take That's gig averaged out at 2.4 million, according to the overnight figures.

Ban on junk food ads introduced

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:20:36 GMT

A ban on adverts for junk food during television programmes aimed at children under 16 has come into force.

Regulator Ofcom has outlawed adverts for foods high in fat, salt and sugar in an effort to tackle rising childhood obesity levels.

But broadcasters say the quality of children's programmes will be hit by the loss of an estimated £39m in advertising revenue.

Health campaigners had called for a complete ban before the 9pm watershed.

The move is the latest stage in a phased crackdown on advertising during programmes aimed at or appealing to children.

In April 2007, junk food ads were banned during programmes made to appeal to seven to nine-year-olds.

The rules are fantastically complicated and opaque for parents
Richard Watts, Children's Food Campaign

And by December this year, dedicated children's channels will have to phase them out altogether.

Children's Secretary Ed Balls has said that UK children see some 10,000 television adverts a year and recognise 400 brands by the age of 10.

Family shows

Terrestrial broadcasters have predicted their advertising revenue will fall by 1% after the ban.

Child-oriented satellite channels expect a 9% drop, while commercial channels aimed entirely at children fear a 15% fall.

Ofcom's rules impose curbs on adverts during shows where child viewers make up a high percentage of the total audience.

But in November, consumer group Which? claimed the restrictions were insufficient because they did not cover family programmes which appealed to both children and adults.

Among these were high-profile shows such as The X Factor, Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, New You've Been Framed and Coronation Street.

Richard Watts from the Children's Food Campaign told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that 18 out of the top 20 shows watched by children were not covered by the new ban.

"The rules are fantastically complicated and opaque for parents," Mr Watts said in endorsing a complete ban before the 9pm watershed.

He accused Ofcom of balancing the protection of children's health alongside the "financial health" of broadcasters.

In addition to scheduling restrictions, Ofcom plans to ban the use of celebrities and characters, such as cartoon heroes, to advertise unhealthy food.

Free gifts and health or nutrition claims will also be banned.

A Food Standards Agency ratings system is used to assess which foods are deemed to be junk products.

Comedy veteran Dodd in hospital

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 03:19:44 GMT

Comedian Ken Dodd has been admitted to hospital in Liverpool, forcing two of his shows to be postponed.

The star, who turned 80 in November, had "a little procedure" which was "nothing serious", his spokesman said.

Performances in Birkenhead and St Helens, which had been planned for this week, will now take place next month.

"He is very sorry to disappoint the people who were due to see him," the spokesman added. Refunds will be given to fans who cannot attend the new gigs.

Dodd was due to play at Birkenhead's Pacific Road Arts Centre on New Year's Day and the Theatre Royal in St Helens next Sunday.

He has nearly 30 other shows scheduled for the first half of 2008 but these are not affected at this stage.

Enduring appeal

The star is famous for performing with his feather duster - or "tickling stick" - and has built his shows around Knotty Ash, the Liverpool suburb where he was born.

He tells fantasy stories of its inhabitants, whom he describes as the "Diddy Men".

Dodd was the subject of an Arena documentary on BBC Two on Christmas Eve, which followed him on tour and examined the reasons for his lasting popularity.

He is being treated at the Royal Liverpool Hospital, where a spokeswoman said he was expected to be discharged "in a couple of days".

McCanns: Don't forget Madeleine

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:14:19 GMT

Kate and Gerry McCann were devastated when they were told posters featuring their daughter Madeleine were being taken down from shop windows in Praia da Luz.

The story has also dropped out of Portuguese newspapers and is rarely featured on television.

Now the couple say they are prepared to go back to the Algarve resort from where Madeleine vanished nearly eight months ago.

They are also ready for a new round of media interviews to get four-year-old Madeleine back in the public eye.
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But first they hope they can soon persuade Portuguese police to remove their status as "arguidos" or suspects.

Kate and Gerry, both 39, expect to be interviewed by detectives next month. If police clear them they would be free to return to the Algarve for the first time since September 9, without having a cloud of suspicion hanging over them.

Their spokesman Clarence Mitchell said: "We've said from the outset that they would go back if it would help the investigation.

"At the moment we just want to concentrate on getting the arguido status lifted so that it's no longer a distraction to anyone in the search to find Madeleine.

"If their arguido status were lifted we would review everything and we've said all along that there are reasons why they might go back to Portugal. They have friends there, there are religious sites they would like to visit and of course there is the link with Madeleine and the need to keep her disappearance in people's minds."

A friend of the couple said they hoped to persuade the man in charge of the police investigation, Paulo Rebelo, to clear their names within weeks.

He added: "The most likely next step is that the police will come to Britain to speak to Kate and Gerry and their friends."

"If they did go back at any point they would make it clear they were going back of their own volition not because they were being summoned.

"But if they were cleared as arguidos then it would change everything.

"They would be cleared in the eyes of the judicial system and technically in the eyes of the world, although they realise that there will always be some people who view them with suspicion. They would be free to speak about the case and to carry out any publicity work to appeal for help to find Madeleine.

"Of course, they hope that the police interviews in Britain will help that process and that they will be eliminated from the investigation.

"They are ready and waiting and will welcome them. They just want to get on with it so they can convince Paulo Rebelo that he hasn't got a case against them."

The couple are desperate to keep publicising the plight of their daughter, who disappeared from their holiday apartment at the Ocean Club resort in Praia da Luz on May 3.

There was a huge response to Kate and Gerry's TV broadcast just before Christmas, when their private investigators took 347 calls with potential new leads.

There has also been a new publicity blitz in Morocco, where the Kate and Gerry's team believe Madeleine may have been taken.

More than 11,000 posters featuring Madeleine's photo and details are being sent to remote towns and villages in the north African country.

Schools, supermarkets and medical centres will also get the posters, which are printed in French and Arabic.

The McCanns, from Rothley, Leics, deny any involvement in Madeleine's disappearance and maintain that she was abducted.

Ex-pat Robert Murat, 34, the first person to be made an arguido in the case, hit back yesterday at new claims he was near the apartment the night Madeleine vanished.

He has always maintained he was at home with his mother Jenny, 71, that evening.

But sisters Annie Wiltshire, 58, and Jayne Jensen, 54, from Kent, claimed he was smoking outside the main reception of the resort 30 minutes after Madeleine was reported missing.

Murat's mother yesterday dismissed the new allegations.

She said: "People who say he was outside Madeleine's apartment that night are telling lies."

The faces of 2008

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:12:30 GMT

WANT to know who are the rising stars in the city Capital of Culture year? Our ECHO experts predict who’ll be shining in the world of music, the arts and TV

Music – star watch from pop writer Jade Wright

THIS year there are lots of bands bubbling away under the surface in Liverpool ready to take the world by storm.

In 2008 I predict there will be some arrivals that will dominate the charts and make their mark on the national music scene.

First up, The Rascals look set for great things. The Wirral trio, signed to Liverpool label Deltasonic, will be bringing out their debut album early next year.

Not only is singer Miles Kane’s voice amazing but he’s armed with some brilliant songs with a turn of phrase that goes straight for the heart.

He’s also recorded an album with Arctic Monkeys singer Alex Turner, which will thrust him and The Rascals into the limelight in a big way.

Their former bandmate Eva Petersen is busy working on a project with Alfie Skelly (younger brother of The Coral’s James and Ian), which sounds fantastic. They’ve been busy working behind the scenes on new material for the last few months, and the results promise to be something special.

My money’s also on West Kirby lads The Hot Melts to make it big in 2008.

Singer Will Bayliss is a genius at writing quirky, timeless songs that you’ll never tire of hearing. They’ve just signed to Epitaph and I reckon next year is definitely their time to shine.

LIPA protege Eugene McGuinness is certainly one to watch. His distinctive blend of indie and acoustic magic is winning him fans across the country, and his forthcoming album on indie king label Domino promises to propel him to new levels of success.

Last year’s rising stars The Wombats have been steadily raising their profile this year, but following the release of their excellent debut album, it seems this could be the year that big things happen for the mighty marsupials.

There are also new albums expected from our more established acts – with offerings from Echo And The Bunnymen, The Zutons, Amsterdam, and of course the Number One Project album.

Arts – star watch from arts editor Joe Riley

IMPOSSIBLE to miss in the televised Liverpool Nativity was a Lipa graduate who says he is determined “to keep the faith” in Liverpool’s potential for 2008.

Stephen Fletcher, 26, played henchman to Cathy Tyson’s female take on King Herod.

Stephen was the actor who just wouldn’t take no for an answer, dispatching 300 hand-written letters to UK theatre, television and film bosses before writing to Willy Russell and director Glen Walford to secure a part in Russell’s revived comedy Breezeblock Park at the Playhouse in 2003.

The enterprising actor, who advocates a full-scale grad-fest and Liverpool Fringe to help retain drama students in the city, seems destined for a bright future.

Mark Davies-Markham, the ex-Bootle tax office worker, who penned the Liverpool Nativity script, is the creator of a new Everyman/Playhouse music drama for this year, set against the backdrop of Eric’s, the late 70s music club in Mathew Street.

Mark also wrote the Boy George musical Taboo, seen on tour in Liverpool with Julian Clary.

Another Liverpool writer about to stage his first home-city show is Tommy Kearney.

Madonna And Me, a romantic comedy, can be seen at the Actors’ Studio, Seel Street (from January 15).

But Tommy, 39, a late-comer to stage writing, has the advantage of already having the play produced in London, together with two of his other dramas.

The other writer to watch is Lizzie Nunnery, who worked on Unprotected, the Everyman’s award-winning docu-drama drama on Liverpool prostitution, and has most recently written Intemperance, a study of life in the city slums of the 1850s.

Kenneth Hesketh, a former Liverpool Cathedral chorister and now the Liverpool Philharmonic’s newly-styled composer in the house, is set to contribute no fewer than 14 works to the Capital of Culture season.

One of them will be performed when the RLPO also shows its colours at the Royal Albert Hall Proms in August.

Watch out also for a possible return visit by former Merseyside Youth Orchestra first trumpet Phil Lawrence, now a full-time composer/conductor, and for more innovative work from Carl Hunter ex-bass player with Liverpool band The Farm, who co-produced this year’s Liverpool-set allotment movie, Grow Your Own, written by children’s novel Millions author Frank Cottrell Boyce.

TV – star watch from TV editor, Peter Grant

TV has been dominated by local talent in 2007 and that positive outlook continues as our city’s reputation goes from strength-to-strength.

Jimmy McGovern’s The Street now has an Emmy award added to its BAFTAs.

McGovern has long nurtured new talent and, by working with up-and-coming writers, he has given some fresh voices a chance to shine – among them Liverpool writer Arthur Ellison.

Now Arthur, a former plumber, and his wife Margie are writing together so that certainly bodes well, say industry insiders.

Established Street writer Marc Pye is also a name to look out for.

The Street, although filmed in Manchester, recognises the talent we have here in front and behind the camera.

It’s not just actors and writers, it is also in the directorial chair – talent such as Terry McDonough.

He now has international recognition for his work.

Terry directed four of the last series of The Street and he is hoping his next project brings him home to Liverpool.

Writer John Foy is another TV name of the future. He will produce great things on the evidence of Mobile – the gritty drama on ITV which starred Scouser Neil Fitzmaurice.

Garston’s Heidi Thomas has not been resting on her laurels following on the success of Lilies.

She adapted the critically- acclaimed novel Cranford and Ballet Shoes and the much-in-demand Heidi is now working on another major costume adaptation as well as a detective drama.

The two lead roles in the BBC’s Liverpool Nativity, Jodie McNee (Mary) and Kenny Thompson (Joseph) are also newcomers brimming with confidence and talent.

They both received great reviews from the media for their parts in the play.

Senseless – an ECHO-backed film about bullying – saw new director Gary Williams make his impressive debut. The Toxteth born director is now working with Colin McKeown of LA Productions on a new soap opera. Colin says: “We have a soap opera ready to roll and a team of writers and backroom staff that are second to none.

“As for 2008 – bring it on to create even more TV household names from Liverpool. And I hope Brick Up The Mersey Tunnel writers Nicky Allt and Dave Kirby switch to working on TV scripts soon – they are naturals.”

Mocktail is great Newz for city’s Capital of Culture celebrations

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:10:51 GMT

CELEBRATE Capital of Culture year the teetotal way with a newly-designed 08 “mocktail”.

Liverpool PCT is launching its very own non-alcoholic culture cocktail to mark the momentous year.

The drink, created after a competition to find a winning recipe, was unveiled by Hollyoaks star Matt Littler at the Newz Bar.

The Pssst! 08 Mocktail will be on the Water Street bar’s cocktail menu throughout 2008.

The city’s director of public health Dr Paula Grey said: “We hope our new mocktail will tempt the tastebuds of those who are looking to reduce their alcohol intake in 2008.

“We hope that people will agree that it offers something more exotic than a soft drink.”

Customers who choose the mocktail will also be helping a good cause.

Helen Malone, from Newz Bar, said: “When Liverpool PCT approached us to sell the mocktail, we thought it was a great idea, even more so because the profits from all sales will be going towards our chosen charity The Lily Centre which offers support to women with breast cancer.”

Help and advice about responsible drinking can be found at www.pssst.org.uk

The 08 Mocktail

Ingredients: 180ml of lime juice; 90ml of grenadine; ice cubes and crushed ice; 90ml sugar syrup; ginger ale; sliced orange and cocktail cherries.

Method: Place 4-6 cracked ice cubes into a cocktail shaker. Pour the lemon juice, grenadine and sugar syrup over the ice and shake vigorously. Half-fill a small, chilled glass with crushed ice and strain the cocktail over it. Top up with ginger ale and serve garnished with a slice of orange and a cocktail cherry.

Video games make history in 2007

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 04:05:28 GMT

The last 12 months have been one of the best years in video game history, both critically and commercially.

Gamers have been able to revel in some of the most exhilarating interactive experiences ever designed.

Sales in the UK are at an all-time high, with more than £1.52bn taken in the last 12 months.

Some video games crossed over into blockbuster entertainment territory. Halo 3, for example, earned £84m in its first 24 hours on sale.

Many people will be joining the gaming revolution this Christmas - but what were the games which had people talking in the past year?

The stand out moments for many gamers include Master Chief delivering his "Wake me when you need me" line in Halo 3, to the nuclear bomb blast in Call of Duty 4, the arrival in Rapture in Bioshock, and the innovative gaming of Super Mario Galaxy.

But what did our expert judges pick out as their game of the year?

DAVID AMOR, RELENTLESS GAMES

1. Ratchet and Clank - PlayStation 3

This was the first time I have looked at the visuals of a video game and thought I was playing a Pixar movie.

There was just no difference between the interactive and non-interactive sequences in the game.

Super Mario Galaxy
Mario is many people's game of the year
2. Super Mario Galaxy - Nintendo Wii

Mario games are always fun and it's always interesting to see what gameplay dynamics are introduced.

There was a lot of pressure for it to succeed - and it does.

3. Command and Conquer - PC

I played the demo and got drawn in. The online aspect of the game is now so established and so mature. The game shows just how far online experiences have come in a short space of time.

DAVID BRABEN, FRONTIER GAMES

1. The Darkness - Xbox 360

It may be very cliched and did not really offer an open experience, it felt like it did. It was a very interesting world to play in and having seen so many games over so many years, something interesting always surprises.

Bioshock
Bioshock's production values have been praised
2. Bioshock - PC and Xbox 360

This was a really beautiful game. The architecture, 1950s-style production design and graphics were first rate.

The gameplay felt like something we had seen before but the world was so beautifully realised.

3. Halo 3 - Xbox 360

The game had not really moved on from previous Halo titles, other than in its online play.

There's something very immersive about playing it on a big screen. And for many developers this is the game, the standard they are aiming for.

MARGARET ROBERTSON, GAMES CONSULTANT

FF XII
Final Fantasy games are always very polished
1. Super Mario Galaxy

It has more ideas in it than any other game I can remember playing for years. It's so innovative and so bold and technically very good.

And because it is so much fun and so good to play you forget how technically proficient it actually is.

2. Final Fantasy XII - PlayStation 2

It's astoundingly accomplished. It may be an old game series but its still innovative - and with all Final Fantasy games it is beautiful and technically excellent.

3. Planet Puzzle League - Nintendo DS

It's a simple idea, beautifully produced and one of my favourite puzzle games ever.

TONY MOTT, EDGE EDITOR

Drake
Drake: PlayStation 3's best game of 2007?
1. Super Mario Galaxy

It is a video game in the truest sense of the term. Colourful, fun-filled with lots of play around with.

2. The Orange Box - PC, PS3, Xbox 360

I really enjoyed Portal because was something different and innovative. I have always enjoyed the Half Life series and to get the two episodic games with Half Life 2 itself is great value.

3. Uncharted: Drake's Fortune - PlayStation 3

This has finally given people a reason to play PlayStation 3. It is not a very long game but it is unashamed fun.

Bin Laden posts new message

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 14:09:49 GMT

Published: Saturday, 29 December 2007, 9:29PM

Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden has accused the United States of plotting to take control of Iraq's oil in a new posting on the Internet.

In a statement, the militant leader said Washington wanted to build military bases in the country and dominate the region.

Bin Laden urged Iraqis to reject a plan which he said meant "to give the Americans all they wish of Iraq's oil" and said those who take part in a unity government would be turning their backs on Islam.

He urged Iraqis not to join counter-insurgency patrols, predominantly Sunni Arab tribal police funded by the US military to fight al Qaeda and reduce violence, and criticised the Saudi government for backing US policies in Iraq.

"The government of Riyadh is still playing its wicked roles," he added.

A US counter-terrorism official said Washington was aware of the recording and was looking into it.

"There has never been a fake bin Laden tape, so there really wouldn't be any reason going in to believe it would be anything other than authentic," the official said.

"The rhetoric as reported seems in keeping with well-worn al Qaeda themes on Iraq."

Earlier on Saturday, Iraq's Interior Ministry said Sunni Arab al Qaeda's influence in Iraq had dramatically fallen, with 75 percent of its networks and 70 percent of its activities having been eliminated.

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.

UK sisters blow Murat's alibi

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:16:21 GMT

TWO British sisters have revealed they saw oddball Robert Murat lurking by the Portuguese holiday apartment from which Madeleine McCann vanished.

Annie Wiltshire, 58, and Jayne Jensen, 53, told cops they spotted the 34-year-old ex-pat smoking a cigarette outside the Ocean Club moments after the search for Maddie was launched.

Jayne Jensen ... says she spotted the suspect smoking

Jayne Jensen ... says she
spotted suspect smoking

The sighting contradicts Murat’s alibi that he spent the evening at his nearby home with his mum Jenny – and did not learn of the four-year-old’s disappearance until the next morning.

The sisters, who both live in Kent, have branded his story “ridiculous”.

Their disclosure brings the number of people who believe they saw Murat on the fateful night to EIGHT.

He was the first official suspect in the case and remains in the frame.

The sisters were on a fortnight’s holiday in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz.

Annie Wiltshire ... found ex-pat Murat's behaviour strange

Annie Wiltshire ... found ex-pat
Murat's behaviour strange

They stayed in an apartment opposite the tapas bar where Maddie’s parents Kate and Gerry were dining with friends when the tot went missing.

Drink

Jayne, of Maidstone, and cancer sufferer Annie, of Aylesford, told cops they saw Murat smoking outside the Ocean Club’s entrance, 20 metres from the McCanns’ apartment, between 10.30 and 11pm on May 3.

The alarm over Maddie, was raised at 10pm.

The sisters recognised Murat the next day as he acted as an interpreter for cops.

A source close to them told how a friend invited them to his apartment for a drink later the same day.

Maddie ... missing

Maddie ... missing

As they discussed Maddie’s disappearance, property consultant Murat passed by.

He doubled back, asked if everyone was OK and joined them for a drink.

The source said: “On reflection they all thought his behaviour was a bit odd. He was dressed in a navy T-shirt and jeans.

He was very sweaty and said he had to shower and change as he had been in these clothes all day.

“They felt that was strange because he had been in a striped shirt and trousers earlier. Every time they see him claiming he was not there on the night, they find it ridiculous.”

The sisters passed their information to British police on their return.

Suspect ... Robert Murat

Suspect ... Robert Murat

But after renewed appeals for help by doctors Kate and Gerry, both 39, the pair decided to contact Metodo 3, the Spanish detective agency hired by the McCanns. And their story finally emerged yesterday.

Jayne’s son Joe, who is in his 20s, told The Sun: “They feel their evidence is very circumstantial but realise it could be crucial when taken into the wider picture.

“They saw Robert Murat on the night Madeleine disappeared and they want to help. They decided to report what they saw. It’s not a question of having a go at Murat.”

A source close to the Maddie investigation said: “We are grateful to them.

“They were staying independently near the Ocean Club so were not on any police list of residents there.

“Significantly, they put Murat in the area on the night.”

Murat has always denied any wrongdoing and his 71-year-old mum has backed his alibi.

Today, a close friend of Murat's has rubbished the fresh claims

Family friend Tuck Price today suggested the women must have mistaken him for somebody else, adding: “He wasn’t there.”

The sisters also told cops they saw two men acting suspiciously on a balcony overlooking the tapas bar on the day Maddie vanished.

Kate and Gerry took their two-year-old twins Sean and Amelie to play in Glasgow’s Victoria Park yesterday.

The couple are thought to be staying in the city with Gerry’s brother John and his family.

Rottweiler kills one-year-old

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:15:11 GMT

A SCREAMING baby boy was savaged to death by a relative’s rottweiler yesterday.

The crazed pet pounced as the one-year-old played in a garden.

Doctors battled in vain to save the tot after he was rushed to hospital with horrific injuries.

Last night his distraught family were being comforted by specially-trained cops.

The dog was put down hours after the 3.30pm horror in Wakefield, West Yorks.

Last night the tiny victim had not been named.

Police probing the attack said: “Officers attended and the dog was destroyed in order to ensure the safety of others at the address.”

The shocking incident echoes the death of Ellie Lawrenson, who was mauled by her uncle’s illegal pitbull a year ago.

The five-year-old was killed in the early hours of New Year’s Day while she was staying with her grandparents in Eccleston, St Helens.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 bans just four types of dog including pit bulls and Japanese tosas – but not rottweilers.

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A MUM saw her newborn girl mauled to death in her cot by the family’s rottweiler.

The pet sank its fangs into the tot’s head, shaking her like a rag doll.

The screaming mum begged neighbours to help in Pakenham, near Melbourne, Australia.

The dog was put down.

Benazir Bhutto's masked butcher

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:13:41 GMT

FANATICAL al-Qaeda warlord Baitullah Mehsud was last night named as the mastermind behind the murder of Pakistani politician Benazir Bhutto.

Officials released a transcript of a phone call in which the bloodthirsty Islamic militant can be heard gloating about Thursday’s suicide bomb horror in Rawalpindi.

Evil Mehsud, 34, who always masks his face, calls the atrocity “spectacular” and praises the “very brave boys” behind the attack.

The news came as hundreds of thousands of weeping supporters said farewell to Ms Bhutto, 54, at her funeral and 31 people died in rioting across Pakistan.

Click on the button below for pictures from her funeral.

Click here for slideshow

Interior Ministry spokesman Javed Iqbal Cheema said: “We have intelligence intercepts indicating al-Qaeda leader Baitullah Mehsud is behind her assassination.”

Bearded and long-haired Mehsud has strong links to both al-Qaeda and Afghanistan’s Taliban.

The feared tribal warlord had furiously attacked courageous Ms Bhutto for her pro-Western views and threatened suicide attacks.

Wanted

Mehsud is one of Pakistan’s most wanted terrorists and is hiding out in lawless South Waziristan on the Afghan border — where he is an emir, or leader.

X-ray ... fractures to skull of Bhutto

X-ray ... fractures to skull of Bhutto

Enlarge

Osama Bin Laden’s thugs also claimed responsibility for the attack yesterday. They said it was in revenge for a recent speech in which Ms Bhutto — who hoped to lead her Pakistan People’s Party to power in forthcoming elections — condemned Islamic extremism.

Mustafa Abu Al-Yazid, the al-Qaeda leader in Afghanistan, confirmed the terror network’s involvement during conversations with two news organisations.

It is understood he insisted that Bin Laden’s deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri sanctioned the murder back in October — when a first attempt on Ms Bhutto’s life in Karachi failed.

Al-Yazid told Italian news agency Adnkronos International: “We terminated the most precious American asset.” And he told the Asia Times: “This is our first major victory against those who have been siding with infidels in a fight against al-Qaeda.”

In the phone call revealed yesterday, Mehsud exchanges congratulations for the assassination with a man identified only as Maulvi Sahib — which means Mr Cleric.

The cleric names three men who carried out the attack as Saeed, Badarwala Bilal and Ikramullah.

Mehsud says: “It was a spectacular job. They were very brave boys who killed her.” Mr Cleric replies: “Praise be to God.”

It is feared the assassination at an election rally, which has left Pakistan in turmoil, is part of a wider plot — with president Pervez Musharraf also a target.

Ms Bhutto died when the car she was travelling in was attacked. Shots were fired and a suicide bomber blew himself up, killing 20 other people.

A row broke out last night over the manner of Ms Bhutto’s death.

Officials said she would have survived if she had not insisted on sticking her head out of a sunroof, while supporters blamed poor government security.

Click on the link below for pictures from the murder scene.

Click here for slideshow

It was at first announced that Ms Bhutto was hit by two bullets.

Vile ... click for full phone text

Vile ... click for full phone text

Enlarge

Yesterday the Interior Ministry claimed she fractured her skull on the handle of her vehicle’s sunroof while ducking to avoid the bomb blast. But Bhutto aide Farooq Naik said: “It is a pack of lies. Two bullets hit her, one in the abdomen and one in the head. It was a serious security lapse.”

Vast tearful crowds thronged the streets for Ms Bhutto’s last journey to her final resting place alongside her father.

Heroine

The political heroine — Pakistan’s greatest hope for a democratic future — was buried in her family’s triple domed white marble mausoleum in Garhi-Khuda Baksh.

Her plain wood coffin, draped in the Pakistan People’s Party green, red and black flag was carried in a white ambulance. Mourners threw flower petals and chanted: “As long as the moon and sun are alive, so is the name of Bhutto.” Farmer Imam Baksh sobbed: “Bhutto was my sister and Bhutto was like my mother. With her death, the world has ended.”

Her husband Asif Ali Zardari and teenage son Bilawal, 19, helped lift the casket into the grave. Daughters Bakhtwar, 17, and Aseefa, 14, were also there.

Nazakat Soomro, 32, said afterwards: “I don’t know what will happen to the country now.”

Many experts believe her murder could lead to the January 8 elections being cancelled but PM Mohammedmian Soomro insisted there were no immediate plans to.

Violence exploded on the streets of Pakistan yesterday in the wake of the outrage. Four policemen were among at least 31 who died.

Murdered ... Benazir Bhutto

Murdered ... Benazir Bhutto

Enlarge

Police stations and railway stations were set on fire and banks looted. Worst hit was Ms Bhutto’s Sindh province and its capital Karachi. Cops in Hyderabad opened fire after 25 banks and 100 vehicles were torched.

In Rawalpindi a pool of blood could still be seen on the spot where Ms Bhutto died. Mohamad Khalil, 35, said: “They tried to wash it all away but couldn’t. I can’t believe we are burying her today. She was against religious extremism. Now there will be no peace in Pakistan.”

Labourer Maqsood Ahmed, 45, added: “She was the only hope of giving democracy to the people of Pakistan.

“I would give my own life if he could have her back. Now I fear the country will be torn apart by war.”

Preacher of hate Omar Bakri Mohammad — living in Lebanon after being booted out of Britain — gloated over Ms Bhutto’s death. He said on the internet: “Today was like a day of celebration for Muslims all over the world We heard one of the disbelievers of this earth perish, after she continually declared war on Islam and Muslims.”

But Muslims in Britain, where Ms Bhutto spent years in exile, were mourning her loss yesterday.

More than 3,000 people turned out to pay their respects during Friday prayers at the Birmingham Central Mosque.

Funeral ... son, left, and bespectacled hubby

Funeral ... son, left, and
bespectacled hubby

Enlarge

Mosque chairman, Dr Mohammed Naseem urged Pakistanis to stand together and protect democracy. He added: “Killing people is senseless. Gun law is not the right law.”

Gordon Brown last night pledged Britain will back Pakistan’s war on terrorism. He said: “What’s important is terrorists who tried to bomb, kill or maim their way to stop democracy in Pakistan are not successful.”

US president George Bush said Ms Bhutto “gave her life for democracy”.

Last night former SAS hero and Sun security adviser Andy McNab said: “The assassination of Benazir Bhutto bears all the hallmarks of al-Qaeda and it is a significant victory for them.

“It was aimed at destabilising a country which was already on the brink — and it has worked.”

Leona Lewis is Bleedin' lovely

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:11:02 GMT

LEONA LEWIS makes a splash while on holiday with boyfriend Lou Al-Chamaa.

The stunning 2006 X Factor winner and her fella are on a Christmas break in the Caribbean. And she had the full attention of beach-goers in a bust-enhancing bikini top.

It must be love ... Lou and Leona

It must be love ... Lou and Leona

Splash

Leona’s album Spirit, featuring single Bleeding Love, topped the festive charts.

Here’s to seeing plenty more of her in 2008.

Catherine Tate inquiry

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:08:16 GMT

Catherine Tate's BBC1 comedy special is to be investigated by Ofcom - after viewers claimed it was "the most offensive programme ever broadcast on a Christmas Day".

The TV watchdog said there were more than 100 phone and internet messages complaining about the excessive use of the Fword by the star's foulmouthed character Nan.

And a sketch portraying a Northern Irish family as terrorists prompted accusations of bigotry and "lazy stereotyping".

The BBC defended the 10.30pm show, which had a 6.4million audience, as "satire and gross exaggeration" and described British Comedy Award winner Tate as "a genius".
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But one viewer commented: "Maybe the lowest point for BBC1 on Christmas Day... ever."

Ofcom is to examine if the crude language was appropriate when many children would have been allowed up to watch.

Tate, 39, has no further shows planned and will revive her role as David Tennant's assistant in the next series of Doctor Who

Sisters saw Murat at McCann flat

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:06:54 GMT

Sisters Jayne Jensen and Annie Wiltshire say they are 100 per cent sure they saw Robert Murat nearby minutes after Madeleine McCann vanished.

A friend said last night: "Jayne and Annie know what they saw and that is that."

Annie, 58, and Jayne, 54, holidayed at the same resort complex and got to know Kate and Gerry McCann and their three children.

They say they saw Murat, 34 - the first person made an official suspect over four-year-old Madeleine's disappearance - smoking near the entrance 30 minutes after Kate McCann reported her daughter missing.
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They told Leicestershire police about it when they returned home to Ayelsford in Kent.

And they recently contacted Metodo 3, the private detective agency hired by the McCanns to find Madeleine.

The day after she vanished they told police about two suspicious men they had seen in a ground floor apartment overlooking the tapas bar at the complex in Praia da Luz, Portugal.

The McCanns were dining with friends at the bar when Madeleine went missing.

A source close to the investigation said: "An officer went with them to the apartment to check it. Murat appeared and acted as an interpreter. Annie assumed he was working for police."

That night Murat joined them for a drink outside a friend's apartment.

The source said: "He was passing and enquired if everyone was OK.

"They all thought his behaviour a bit odd. He was wearing a navy blue T-shirt and jeans. He was very sweaty and said, 'I must shower and change, I've been in these all day'.

"They felt that was strange because he had been in a striped shirt and trousers earlier.

"It was then that both the friend and Jayne Jensen remembered seeing him the night before at the scene.

"Jayne remembers seeing him outside the entrance, smoking cigarettes, between 10.30pm and 11pm.

"So every time they see him claiming he was not there on the night, they find it ridiculous."

British expat Murat was made an official suspect in the case almost immediately.

But he has always maintained he was at home with mum Jenny, 71, all night. She has backed his alibi.

The sisters refused to comment last night. But Jayne's son Joe said: "They had an exhaustive interview with the British police and stand by that statement."

The McCanns' spokesman Clarence Mitchell also refused to comment.

Six people have claimed they saw Robert Murat in the vicinity.

The McCanns' friends Fiona Payne, Rachael Oldfield and Russell O'Brien say they saw him.

Charlotte Pennington, 20, of Leatherhead, Surrey, says he was hanging around reception - but when she confronted him next day as he translated her statement to police he denied it.

Two tourists told Metodo 3 they saw Murat walking outside the McCanns' flat.

Ricky ready to hit the town

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:02:43 GMT

HE IS the Liverpool man with the inside track on Ricky Hatton’s dramatic shot at boxing glory.

Director Mike Cockayne followed the rising star of British boxing around the world to make a film about his life.

The pair became good friends and now Mike, who runs Bold Street film company Integral Productions, has promised Hatton a night out in Liverpool.

Mike, 41, from the city centre, flew out to Las Vegas to film the record-breaking run-up to Hatton’s unsuccessful fight against undefeated US champion, Floyd Mayweather.

The footage will be added to his hit film, already a top selling DVD, and will be screened on ITV 1 in the new year.

He said: “I had a fantastic time making the film and it was a privilege getting such close insight into the life of someone like Ricky.

“The timing couldn’t have been better, with the big Mayweather fight taking place when the film came out.

“Because I was following Ricky for a year, we became friends and I was heartbroken when he was beaten. Seeing him put on the canvas was horrible but at least he had the courage to go for the big fight and take on the best pound for pound boxer in the world.

“But Ricky is far from finished. He will take stock now and be back at his best soon.

“When we were with him he was training hard but he always said that after the fight he’s looking forward to a good night in Liverpool.”

Mike, who has directed music videos for Atomic Kitten and Happy Mondays, hopes his DVD will become the biggest selling boxing DVD ever.

It has already become a high-street bestseller on the back of promotion by Liverpool PR firm Fire Management, which is run by Mike’s wife Leisa Maloney.

Mike added: “We were lucky because we spent time with Wayne Rooney out in Las Vegas too and he agreed to be filmed when he carried Ricky’s belt into the ring before his showdown with Jose Luis Castillo.

“We also interviewed Amir Khan and Noel Gallagher for the film. Ricky is very well liked.

“One of my favourite parts is when we used a new technique so we could show the viewer what it’s like to get in the ring with Ricky and just what it s like to be hit by the Hitman. It’s a scary experience.”

Luggage misery for John Lennon airport

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 04:00:42 GMT

PASSENGERS at Liverpool John Lennon airport cannot carry extra hand luggage in the New Year, despite the government relaxing the rules.

JLA, Gatwick, Leeds Bradford and Edinburgh airports have been told they cannot immediately bring in the change in hand luggage regulations from January 7.

Only 19 airports across the UK have so far met the required standards.

Other airports, including Liverpool, are yet to convince government officials they have enough screening capacity while being able to maintain security standards.

A Department of Transport spokesman said: “Some airports have coped with the changes but some need to improve.”

Today JLA officials said a lack of space, limited availability of new specialist equipment and the very recent announcement from the government meant it would take time before extra hand luggage was allowed.

Spokesman Robin Tudor said: “The rule means bigger, hi-tech equipment is needed to perform the task quicker as there is now an increased volume of baggage to scan.

“We need to create more space and we may need to move it to the ground floor or strengthen the existing flooring.

“It could be the summer when the equipment is working. But the current system is perfectly safe and secure.

“It will be very confusing for passengers to cope with certain airports that have the new equipment, and others like us, who don’t, for the next six months.

“It’s ridiculous and very impractical to put these changes in place at a UK airport in such a short period of time.”

To add to the confusion, airlines can place their own restrictions on the amount of hand baggage.

Malcolm Robertson, head of corporate communications at airport operator BAA, said he expected more of its airports, including Gatwick, Glasgow and Edinburgh, to be approved in the next few weeks.

He added: “We’ve invested heavily in new security capacity including technology and people to help the government lift their one baggage rule.”

Joey Barton behind bars after city centre brawl

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 03:59:46 GMT

FOOTBALLER Joey Barton will see in the New Year behind bars after being charged over a brawl in Liverpool city centre.

The Premier League midfielder, who grew up on Huyton’s Bluebell estate and was on Everton’s books as a youngster, was remanded in custody until January.

Dressed in a grey jumper and black shirt Barton, 25, sat with his head bowed so low he was barely visible in the dock throughout yesterday’s hour-long hearing at Liverpool magistrates’ court.

The £6m Newcastle United star, who has one England cap, gave his address as Fox Bank Close, Widnes. He is charged with common assault and affray.

The court was told he and a group of friends were allegedly involved in two separate incidents after a row with another group inside the Church Street McDonald’s restaurant in the early hours of Thursday.

The footballer, his brother Andrew Barton, and 27-year-old Nadine Wilson were all arrested.

Andrew Barton, 19, from Widnes, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and affray.

Wilson, from Huyton, was charged with common assault and affray.

Neither appeared in court yesterday, and were bailed to appear in court in the New Year.

Joey Barton was refused bail.

At the time of Thursday’s incident, he was already on bail over an allegation of criminal damage involving a Liverpool taxi driver and an alleged training ground assault on a former Manchester City team-mate.

He was led away in handcuffs and will next appear before magistrates via video link on January 3.

His time in custody rules him out of at least the next two Newcastle games, against Chelsea and Manchester City.

Newcastle United refused to make a statement.

Top of the bad boy league

JOEY Barton has courted controversy on and off the football pitch.

Last month he apologised to Sunderland star Dickson Etuhu after an X-rated tackle in the north east derby. Barton planted his studs firmly in the groin of his rival as they challenged for the ball, then said he was “rusty” after only recently coming back from injury.

In the same month he labelled the St James’s Park faithful “vicious”.

A month before his England debut in February, Barton publicly criticised certain players who wrote books about their World Cup failure.

In September last year he bared his backside to Everton fans while playing for Manchester City at Goodison Park.

At the end of the game Barton dropped his shorts in response to abuse he had endured during the 90 minutes.

In July 2005 he was sent home in disgrace from City’s pre-season tour of Thailand after he allegedly assaulted a 15-year-old Everton supporter who abused him and kicked the player in the shin.

At City’s Christmas party in December 2004 Barton stubbed out a lit cigar in the eye of a youth team player. He was fined a record six weeks’ wages and City bosses admitted they had considered sacking him.

Show your pride, keep Liverpool clean

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 03:58:19 GMT

LITTER louts were today urged to show pride in their city as Liverpool’s rubbish shame again raised its ugly head.

Parts of the city centre were left strewn with litter earlier this week when early-morning street sweepers were forced to flee after being attacked by drunken yobs.

One team was bombarded with bottles while another had to leave Bold Street when yobs jumped on the back of their machine.

The attack left Bold Street – notoriously one of the messiest parts of Liverpool – covered with a mountain of litter including fast-food wrappers and discarded takeaways.

Civic leaders today again pleaded with the public to keep their city tidy as Capital of Culture year fast approaches.

An ongoing crackdown has already seen scores of people fined for dropping rubbish – but the scene in Bold Street on Thursday morning showed there is still a long way to go.

Liverpool’s lord mayor, Paul Clark, who backed the ECHO’s campaign against litter earlier this month, today called on residents, shoppers and party-goers to prove they care about the city’s image.

He said: “The eyes of the world will be on Liverpool for the next 12 months with almost two million extra visitors expected during Capital of Culture year.

“It is absolutely crucial that we send out the right message by disposing of litter responsibly.

“It is simply not acceptable to think it is someone else’s job to clear it up – it is the responsibility of each and every one of us.

“Our street cleansing service has improved immeasurably in recent years.

“But we can make life far easier for our hard-working sweeping team by giving them much less to pick up.

“If you love Liverpool, take care of it by not making a mess.”

Earlier this month the council unveiled a new weapon against litter louts – a CCTV-equipped van which tours the city’s rubbish hotspots to catch people dropping trash.

In just nine days 79 £75 on-the-spot fines were issued to people caught on camera and approached by street wardens.

Council chiefs said many others were spotted dropping litter – but quickly picked it up and put it in a bin when they realised they had been filmed.

They also said the vast majority of those fined were middle-aged people, rather than youngsters.

The five-week crackdown has already visited Breck Road, Everton, Broadway, Norris Green, Allerton Road, Allerton, and Lime Street, in the city centre.

In the New Year the van will concentrate on busy roads into the city.

Meanwhile, the council will carry on with its early-morning street cleaning routine despite the attack.

A council spokesman said there were no plans to change shift patterns, which start at 4am and run through to 11.30pm.

ECHO essentials

ABOUT 240 street sweepers are responsible for keeping Liverpool’s roads tidy with about 40 dedicated to the city centre.

It costs taxpayers about £10.5m a year to remove discarded rubbish from the streets, with even more money allocated towards the clean-up in Capital of Culture year.

At least 90 tonnes of litter - the equivalent weight of 18 elephants - is removed from city centre streets each week.

Concert Square, off Bold Street, where thousands of drinkers congregate at weekends, is a particular problem, and is often strewn with discarded food, bottles and takeaway wrappers.

Everton tickets to beat truancy

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 03:57:25 GMT

MERSEYSIDE truants are being offered cut-price Everton tickets to persuade them to stay at school.

In the pioneering scheme tickets will also be awarded to hard working children at schools in deprived areas.

Everton are introducing the scheme so more children from “different-income” families can enjoy Premier League football.

The club will sell the tickets to individual schools at a heavily discounted price and offer cashback for bigger orders.

Everton in the Community chief executive Graham Lewis said: “With ever-increasing ticket prices it is becoming more difficult for many children to go to a game.

“We are trying to change that in a few ways, particularly with the school reward system which aims to encourage classes where there is under-achieving or truancy.

“If a child has chronic truancy issues, Everton in the Community coaches coming into his school can make a difference.

“If that child comes to 80% of those sessions with us that shows a massive amount of commitment and they can be offered a ticket as a reward.”

Mr Lewis said six local schools already wanted to be involved.

Steven Wilson, a learning mentor at Mosscroft primary school in Huyton, said the scheme would appeal to pupils and parents.

Mr Wilson said: “It’s fantastic to see this type of community involvement from a Premier League football club.

“Our school is in a fairly low socio-economic area and for many parents money can be an issue. We are going to give the scheme a try.

“In our area we battle against truancy all the time, and often if one child from a family stays off the other children do.

“The incentive of going to experience the excitement of a game might help us with this problem.

“In the future we may be able to purchase discounted tickets for the parents as well, and it will encourage family bonding.”

Ricky is no movie Extra

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:34:02 GMT

RICKY GERVAIS has no plans for a new TV show – because he is focusing on his movie career.

Ricky, whose Extras Christmas special went down a storm last night, will soon be all over the silver screen.

He said: “We don’t have any plans for any new TV projects. The BBC has been fantastic. We don’t want to make TV just for the sake of it.”

The comic hit the big time Stateside after appearing in Ben Stiller movie Night At The Museum and also won praise after appearing with Michelle Pfeiffer in hit flick Stardust.

Now Ricky has just finished filming his first lead movie role, in the big-budget Ghost Town, with Greg Kinnear and Tea Leoni.

Next, Ricky will be starring opposite Jennifer Garner in This Side Of The Truth, before he starts work on a film of his own with Office co-star and writer Stephen Merchant.

Ricky plans to star in, direct and write their forthcoming movie The Man At The Pru.

But he won’t abandon TV totally.

He said: “We won’t stay away for ever, we love it.”

Sea-ona Lewis in the Caribbean

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:32:22 GMT

X FACTOR winner Leona Lewis and fella Lou Al-Chamaa celebrate with a Caribbean beach holiday – after her second single Bleeding Love topped the charts for a whopping seven weeks.

Leona, 22, and electrician sweetheart Lou, 21, sported identical rings.

This singer is sure happy to be with the band . . .

Knifeman: I sliced your son

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:31:11 GMT

A KNIFEMAN bragged about a machete attack on Sugababe Amelle Berrabah’s boyfriend in a call to the victim’s MUM, it was claimed last night.

Freddie Fuller, 25, had his left arm almost sliced off as he celebrated Christmas Eve with 23-year-old Amelle.

A source close to the pop star told how Freddie’s mum was called on her mobile phone minutes after the attack in Aldershot, Hants.

The source said: “A man told her, ‘You’ll want to be calling an ambulance. I’ve just killed your son.’

“The phone call only lasted a few seconds but she was in hysterics. It was a chilling call – there’s no doubt that the attacker meant to kill Freddie.”

A man aged 28 was released on police bail yesterday. He had been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after walking into a local police station on Wednesday afternoon.

Freddie is now recovering in Frimley Park Hospital, Surrey, after a six-hour operation saved his arm. He is expected to be transferred to a private hospital in the next 48 hours.

A friend added: “Freddie still looks terrible because he has gashes and cuts all over his face, arms and legs.

“But he is conscious and managed to have some Christmas dinner on Christmas Day.

“Amelle has been by his side all the time.”

About You Now singer Amelle saw the assault happen outside the Queen Victoria pub at around 11.30pm.

The star told yesterday how medics had warned her that Freddie would have to stay in hospital for eight weeks.

She said: “I just want him to get well. He had been left for dead.

“It’s awful to see him lying there so still, with his face so pale and his limbs bound up.”

Violence erupts over Bhutto

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:29:50 GMT

VIOLENCE across Pakistan has erupted after a suicide assassin on a motorbike shot Benazir Bhutto in the neck and chest before blowing himself to bits yesterday.

Fifteen others were killed in the bloody atrocity, which plunged Pakistan into turmoil and triggered dire warnings of civil war in the nuclear nation.

The country’s caretaker Prime Minister pledged today to hold elections on January 8 as planned.

Click here for slideshow

When asked if a decision had been made on the timing of the parliamentary polls in light of Bhutto’s death, Mohammadmian Soomro said: “Nothing yet. Elections stand as they were announced.

“We will consult all the political parties to take any decision about it.”

Last rally ... Bhutto

Last rally ... Bhutto

But violence continued today as seventeen people, including three policemen, were killed in violent protests across Pakistan.

About 4,000 Benazir Bhutto supporters rallied in northwestern Pakistan and ransacked an office of a pro-government political party.

A blast at an election meeting in Pakistan’s troubled northwest killed three people, including a candidate for the party that supports President Pervez Musharraf.

And police said a mob looted three banks in Karachi before setting them on fire.

About 7,000 people in the central city of Multan ransacked seven banks and a gas station and threw stones at police, who responded with tear gas.

In the capital of Islamabad, about 100 protesters burned tires in a commercial quarter of the city.

And violent mobs burned 10 railway stations and several trains across Ms Bhutto’s Sindh province, forcing the suspension of all train service between the city of Karachi and the eastern Punjab province.

The rioters uprooted one section of the track leading to the Indian border.

Other areas were nearly deserted this morning as businesses closed and public transportation came to a halt at the start of three days of national mourning for the opposition leader.

Troops were put on alert in four cities in Sindh as a precaution against new violence.

And a spokesman for a paramilitary group added that security forces in southern Pakistan had been given permission to shoot at rioters.

Pakistani police opened fire on protesters in the southern city of Hyderabad wounding five.

Brave Ms Bhutto, 54, whose life had been constantly under threat since her return from exile two months ago, was murdered after addressing a political rally in Rawalpindi yesterday.

She had just told supporters of her Pakistan People’s Party: “I put my life in danger and came here because I feel this country is in danger.”

Click here to see pictures of the attack

Click here for slideshow

She left a podium flanked by bodyguards and stepped into an armoured car wearing her traditional dress of white head shawl and flower garland.

But as the vehicle pushed slowly through a swarming crowd, she climbed up through its sunroof to wave to her adoring followers.

Strapped

And the scheming assassin, who had slipped past hundreds of riot police manning checkpoints, took his chance.

Carnage ... the aftermath of the attack

Carnage ... the aftermath

He rode up beside the car and fired two shots at Ms Bhutto, then detonated the explosives strapped to his waist.

The excitement, ambition and hope of the rally was transformed instantly into carnage, screams and despair.

One report said Ms Bhutto – looking to return as Pakistan’s prime minister in elections scheduled for next month – was strafed with shrapnel.

Police found what they believe was the killer’s gun amid a sea of mangled human remains.

The wreckage of a motorbike can be seen in pictures of the aftermath.

Ms Bhutto, her life ebbing away, was rushed to Rawalpindi’s general hospital.

Surgeons struggled in vain to save her and she died as grief-stricken supporters wept and beat their chests outside.

Her death was confirmed by party aide Wasif Ali Khan, who said: “At 6.16 pm, she expired.”

Early today the FBI said Islamist websites stated al-Qaeda had claimed responsibility for the killing — which triggered fury against the regime of President Pervez Musharraf, Ms Bhutto’s main political opponent.

A glass door at the hospital was smashed. Ms Bhutto’s followers – convinced the government was complicit in the attack – shouted “Killer Musharraf” and “Dog, Musharraf, dog.”

Revenge

Party aides described her as a “martyr”. Another former PM, Nawaz Sharif, called her a “sister” and pledged to “take revenge on the rulers”.

He claimed the government was guilty of a “serious lapse in security”.

Last night at least nine people died as violence broke out in several cities. Cars were stoned, cops were attacked and political posters burned.

City of tears ... where Bhutto died

City of tears ... where Bhutto died

Shops closed in Karachi as shots were heard and vehicles set ablaze. Trouble also flared in Lahore, Multan, Peshawar. Mobs burned banks, state-run grocery stores and private shops.

Musharraf called for calm and announced three days of mourning. Ms Bhutto’s funeral was set to take place today in keeping with Muslim tradition.

Her family – including husband Asif Ali Zardari, who celebrated his 20th wedding anniversary with Ms Bhutto ten days ago – arrived from Dubai and flew her body to her home province Sindh.

Ms Bhutto survived a suicide bomb assassination bid on the day she returned from a self-imposed eight-year exile in October.

American photographer John Moore, who witnessed yesterday’s killing, said: “I was shocked to see her standing out of the sunroof, waving to supporters. I was aware of Bhutto ducking back into the car and at least two gunshots.

“Then the bomb was detonated next to the car.”

Horror tackle warning

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:27:38 GMT

Premier League bosses are facing a fresh warning on horror two - footed challenges even after a record number of Boxing Day red cards.

Nineteen players were sent off across the four divisions - a record number of dismissals on a single day - as the season of goodwill was cut short by a string of appalling fouls.

It comes after a clampdown on X-rated challenges imposed by Keith Hackett, chief of the Professional Game Match Officials, at the start of the season.

And Hackett is set to remind managers and players of their responsibilities in a New Year attempt to make it clear that two-footed tackles will be met with an automatic red card.
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Hackett warned every club at the start of the season that referees had been instructed to send any player off who made a two-footed tackle.

That has seen a rush of red cards in the last few weeks.

But there is still some uncertainty as to whether the mounting number of sendings off is down to more bad tackles or because the referees have been ordered to clamp down harder than before.

Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho saw red for a two-footed lunge on Aston Villa's Gabriel Agbonlahor on Boxing Day while Reading's Brynjar Gunnarsson was dismissed for a two-footed lunge on Hayden Mullins in their 1-1 draw at West Ham.

Carvalho later apologised for his tackle - and Reading boss Steve Coppell accepted Gunnarsson deserved to go.

But the Premier League want to reaffirm to every club, manager and player that there can be no excuse for two-footed challenges.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez claimed Peter Crouch had been wound up before he launched a two-footed tackle on Chelsea's John Obi Mikel while Tottenham were also angered after Robbie Keane and Didier Zokora were sent off recently.

But Hackett and the Premier League remain determined to get their position across.

They do not want managers to give their players any get-out and referees may be encouraged to reaffirm the message before games so there can be no excuses or complaints. The clampdown has certainly increased the number of red cards for two-footed tackles - but there are also calls for punishments to be increased to try and clean up the game.

Former Premier League referee Jeff Winter believes FIFA can help by allowing the FA - whose hands are tied at the moment - to increase the mandatory three-match ban for particularly bad challenges.

Winter said: "The FA should be allowed to increase bans to four or even five matches."

Former Liverpool star and Mirror columnist Stan Collymore also believes the two-footed challenge problem is getting out of hand.

Collymore said: "In the last few weeks I've seen as many two-footed challenges as I have in the last 10 years.

It's creeping into the game. If Carvalho's tackle had caught Gabriel Agbonlahor on the shin it would have broken his leg, as simple as that."

But Wigan boss Steve Bruce warned that referees and red cards could ruin the game.

Bruce said: "None of us want to see bad tackles or bad injuries. But we need commonsense as well. Who wants to see teams playing with 10 men every week?"

Leon's X-mas present

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:26:33 GMT

X Factor winner Leon Jackson drove his mum to tears with a dream Christmas present - a new car.

Scot Leon, who is top of the charts with debut single When You Believe, bought the Mini Cooper as a surprise for single mum Wendy.

He hid the car close to their home in Whitburn, West Lothian, and covered it in bows.

A friend of Leon, 18, said: "He wrapped the key in a jewellery box.
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"When she saw the Mini covered in bows she burst out crying. She has always wanted one. It was a dream come true."

Leon is set for another week at number one after mid-week sales showed him outselling the rest of the top five combined.

Bhutto funeral takes place as violence flares across Pakistan

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:24:59 GMT

The funeral of assassinated former Pakistan PM Benazir Bhutto, was taking place today as violence erupted across the country.

The 54-year-old’s simple wooden coffin, draped in the flag of her party, Pakistan People’s Party, was carried through her ancestral village of Gari Khuda Baksh as thousands gathered in the streets to mourn.

Her husband Asif Ali Zardari and their three children accompanied the body as it arrived by military aircraft and was taken by ambulance to her family home in Larkana in the Sindh district.

Distraught mourners gathered around the house shouting and crying.
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Bhutto will be buried in her family’s mausoleum, next to her father, former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who was executed after his government was overthrown.

In Punjab and Sindh angry supporters took to the streets to protest the government did not do enough to protect the 54-year-old against terrorist attacks.

In Karachi violent riots broke out and government buildings, police stations and vehicles were set alight.

Gunmen also opened fire and a policemen was shot dead in the eastern district, while four others lost their lives.

The death toll across the country currently sits at 19, according to a security official.

There are grave concerns that Bhutto’s death yesterday at an election rally will affect the parliamentary elections on January 8, threatening democracy.

Nawaz Sharif – her political rival – has said his party, the Muslim League, would boycott the elections, claiming they would destroy the country. He has also called for a national strike today, which is apparently being observed by some.

However caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro announced plans for elections still stood.

Peer in M1 tragedy

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:23:13 GMT

THE peer who secured the release of Liverpool teddy bear row teacher Gillian Gibbons was involved in a Christmas Day crash that left a man dead.

Lord Ahmed, who flew to Sudan to plead for Mrs Gibbon to be pardoned last month, suffered cuts and bruising and shock.

His Jaguar crashed into an Audi that had broken down in the fast lane of the M1 near Sheffield.

The Audi driver died after being hit trying to return to his car.

Band give children a jolly Xmas

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:22:02 GMT

LIVERPOOL’S X Factor favourites Eton Road brought a little Christmas cheer to youngsters who had to spend the festive season in hospital.

The band paid a surprise visit to Whiston hospital, popping into the children’s unit and special care baby unit to wish all the patients and staff a very merry Christmas.

David, Danny and Marcus were welcomed to a huge cheer when they arrived on the ward.

They spent time with the children, signing autographs and having their photographs taken, and even found the time to sing and dance to the songs they performed during the TV talent show.

Ann Marr, Whiston hospital chief executive, said: “It was fantastic that Eton Road found the time to come into the hospital.

“Their visit brought so much joy to the children and the staff, and I am sure it made Christmas special and a memorable one for so many.”

Warning of crisis in city workforce

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:21:05 GMT

MERSEYSIDE is facing a potential workforce crisis in the future unless it starts attracting immigrants from countries other than Poland.

A report prepared by economic experts warns that Merseyside employers are relying too heavily on Poles and says workers from other countries need to be attracted as well.

The report, by the North West Development Agen- cy’s intelligence unit, warns there is only a “finite” number of Poles prepared to move to the UK, and when there are no more, vacancies may go unfilled.

The NWDA has now called on employers to ensure vacancies appeal to a wide variety of countries.

It stresses this is particularly important if the “brain-drain” of educated Merseysiders to other parts of the UK continues.

Immigration to Merseyside already appears to be slowing down, with a 1.6% increase between 05-06 and 06-07, compared to 5% for the North West and nearly 8% nationally.