Local charity finish runner-up in major business award night

BOOTLE based children’s charity Ykids, have been named runners-up in the highly commended Morgan Foundation Awards.

Nominated in the Best Entrepreneurial Charity category, Ykids were just beaten to the prize by Elixir Foundations CIC whose fantastic work in the community creates opportunities for vulnerable adults.

The ceremony, held at Carden Park Hotel in Chester, proved a great success with the winners and runners-up in the six categories receiving a total of £110k.

Founder of the Morgan Foundation and businessman, Steve Morgan, was delighted with the keen competition for each category.

He said:- “We had more entries than ever before and the finalists were of the highest quality. Inspirational, ambitious, passionate and sheer bloody minded are just a few of the words the judges used to describe them. Judging was very difficult and in many cases it was the smallest of margins separating the winners and runners-up.”

Working with over 2000 children every week, Ykids work benefits the lives of children and young people from deprived communities in Bootle and Merseyside.

Running a variety of innovative projects, their work encourages a brighter future by raising the self esteem and aspirations of the children and young people they work with.

Manager of Ykids, Claire Morgans, was delighted that Ykids had even been considered for such a major award and plans to put the £5000 prize money to good use.  Claire said:- “It was a real honour to even be nominated for such a prestigious award and inspiring to meet so many people who are working to make such a difference in the region. The whole night was fantastic with a great atmosphere and after hearing the stories of the finalists, it was no wonder it was so hard to choose between them. The cash prize we were given will be put towards a social enterprise cafe, which we are hoping to open in Bootle. I would also like to say a huge thank you to the Morgan Foundation who have been a fantastic support to the charity.”

Southport Access For Everyone Update

THE Annual General Meeting of the ‘Southport Access For Everyone’ forum will be held at the Community Room of the Southport Fire Station at the corner of Manchester Road and Lord Street, on Thursday, 25 November 2010 at 7.00 pm. All members are cordially invited to attend this important meeting. The premises are fully accessible for wheelchair users. Enquiries:- 01704 567046.

Christmas is coming to Liverpool!

GIANT illuminated snowflakes, a six foot tall gramophone playing Christmas carols, a snow queen and choirs will all celebrate the start of the festive season in the city centre on Thursday, 18 November 2010.

And two special guests will be among the first to admire the 50 foot Christmas tree in all its sparkling glory. Six year old Connor Daly, who was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumour, but is now in remission, and seven year old Ariella Byrne who suffers from cerebral palsy, will join Liverpool’s Lord Mayor, the Leader of the city council, Councillor Joe Anderson, and the striking snow queen to admire the festive decorations.

Connor has been a patient at Alder Hey Hospital for five years and receives support from the Imagine Appeal, one of the Lord Mayor’s charities this year. And, Ariella and her family are currently trying to raise £60,000 to pay for groundbreaking treatment in America.

Liverpool’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Hazel Williams, said:- “Christmas is a magical time for young and old and it’s a highlight for many when they see the City Centre in its full festive glory! I’m delighted to be getting a first glimpse of the decorations accompanied by these special young people, who both love Christmas and am sure will be amazed by the illuminations. These brave youngsters are an inspiration to us all and I hope they will have the magical evening they deserve.”

Every Thursday evening for the next four weeks there will be Christmas events taking place to wow shoppers and visitors. Entertainment includes the return of Big Brother star Titan the Robot, the Formby brass band, reindeers, penguins, and panto dames who will all be doing their best to raise a smile in their fantastic finery.

There will be a grand finale on Thursday, 16 December 2010, when samba band, Batala, will drum up a fantastic carnival atmosphere.

There is also a second tree which can be found in Williamson Square. Both trees will be adorned with thousands of low energy LED lights and baubles and have been sourced by the Forestry Commission from South Lakes.

And the traditional Nativity will once again be placed in the window of Rapid on Houghton Street.

To find out about all the festive fun, visit:- liverpool.gov.uk/christmas.

The city centre animation programme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).