Miss G Casino (Blackpool): Heat 1 Qualifiers

The first two girls to qualify for the final, which will be held at the G Casino in Blackpool on 28th October are:  Sophie Heald (left) and Jessica Bradder (right).

The second heat will take place at Blackpool's G Casino next Friday evening 7th October.

The Miss G Casino Beauty Competition is run between casinos in Blackpool, Sheffield, Bolton, Stoke, Manchester ( x 2) and Walsall. Each casino will put forward 4 qualifiers for the Grand Final.


There are 2 qualifying heats at each venue and each Heat consists of two rounds
1st round - Jeans & white t-shirt ( any take on this is acceptable inc denim shorts)
2nd round - Clubwear/Dress - whichever they feel most comfortable in.

The girls will be asked some questions but they will see these beforehand and can tick which ones they would like to answer.

Admission to the Blackpool heats is free for spectators but anybody who is under 25 will need photo ID.

There may be a charge for spectators for heats at the other competition venues so check with your local G Casino first.

The Grand Final will be held in Blackpool on 28th October and it is likely that E4 will be filming in the casino that night.

The overall prizes are
1st - £1000 + Goodies
2nd - £500
3rd - £250

Contestants must be aged 18 or over but, unlike other beauty competitions, there is NO UPPER AGE LIMIT!

To enter the 2nd heat at Blackpool G Casino, call Jo Hindle on 01253 341222 ext 231 or email: sm_GC-Blackpool@rank.com

To find out about heats at the other G Casinos, and to find the contact details for YOUR local heat, check out the main G Casino website: http://www.grosvenorcasinos.com/

Fylde Flyers Ice Hockey Team Prepare For Tough Away Games

Following on from their 4-0 win away at Lancashire Raptors in their first ever competitive match, the new Fylde coast based ice hockey team Fylde Flyers face two difficult away games against Scottish side Solway Sharks  in English League Division 2 North over the next 8 days.

Saturday 1st October: Fylde Flyers AWAY at Solway Sharks 7pm Face Off  (ELD2N)
Saturday 8th October: Fylde Flyers AWAY at Solway Sharks 7pm Face Off (ELD2N)
Venue: Dumfries Ice Bowl, King Street, Dumfries DG2 9AN  Tel: (01387) 251300

We went along to the Flyers' training session last night to meet the team and  hear about their preparations for these two away games.  You can hear what assistant coach Garry Fearon and team captain Wayne Whitby had to say by clicking on the sound icon below now  (please note this will take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

CD Release: New Album by Pop Will Eat Itself - Out 3rd October

Title: New Noise Designed By Sadist

Tracklisting
1. Back 2 Business 1:20
2. Chaos & Mayhem 3:38
3. Nosebleeder Turbo TV 4:02
4. Captain Plastic 3:11
5. Mask 5:06
6. Equal Zero 4:39
7. Oldskool Cool 5:09
8. Seek & Destroy 4:27
9. Disguise 3:15
10. Wasted (Part 1) 3:52
11. Wasted (Part 2)

Released on Cooking Vinyl


Band and tour info - and CD order links - here: http://www.popwilleatitself.net/
 
Description:
 
25th Anniversary revival as POP WILL EAT ITSELF announce new album 'New Noise Designed By A Sadist' released.

A new era dawns for iconic band Pop Will Eat Itself, with a revival by principal songwriter and co-frontman Graham Crabb. The inspiration behind the music was the challenge to create a classic PWEI album a full 25 years after the first EP release, that sounds more exciting and relevant than most of what is being produced in 2011.

Says Graham;

"It had been my desire to revive Pop Will Eat Itself for a number of years but there came a point when it was clear the original band members wouldn't be committing to any future project in the band's name. I saw this as a sad waste, as I felt I had armed myself with the best batch of songs I've ever written, and felt I still had a lot to prove. I would like nothing better than to elevate PWEI to a higher level than before. That might be ambitious but that's the way I am.

I don't want to make a big issue of the 25 years thing, but I think it's funny, I was chaos & mayhem personified then, so I didn't expect to be alive now, let alone writing my best PWEI songs to date.

Part of Graham s burning drive is the belief that Pop Will Eat Itself were, in the recent words of DJ Tiga 'chronically underrated' and also a desire to emerge from the shadows of former PWEI buddy and now soundtrack maestro Clint Mansell. With a full UK tour this year, he will achieve just that performing some of Clint's best songs with his blessing. The likes of Ich Bin Ein Auslander and Wise Up Sucker are awesome tunes that still stand proud and fit the PWEI blueprint of sonic assaults built on relentless grooves.

With a string of Top 40 UK and US hits, Pop Will Eat Itself rose to prominence fuelled by Crabb-penned tunes such as There Is No Love Between Us Anymore , Bulletproof , RSVP , Get The Girl, Kill The Baddies and many, many others. With Graham being the only original remaining member, and for the UK dates this October, he has pulled together a live band for the tour. Currently rehearsing together, the line up is as follows;

Lead Vocals- Graham Crabb
Co-Vocalist- Mary Byker (Gaye Bykers On Acid, Pigface, Apollo 440)
Drummer- Jason Bowld (Pitchshifter, Bullet For My Valentine, Killing Joke)
Guitarist- Tim Muddiman (Gary Numan, Sulpher, Mignon)
Bassist - Davey Bennet (This Burning Age)

The new album 'New Noise Designed By A Sadist' is set for release on October 3rd on Cooking Vinyl mixed by Sulpher duo Monti & Rob Holliday (Prodigy, Marilyn Manson) .

2011 Autumn Tour Dates:

 

Preston Moviemakers : 50th Anniversary - Exclusive Interview

Preston Moviemakers is hosting two evenings of film to be presented by the Manchester based North West Film Archive. To help celebrate their 50th Anniversary on the evening of Thursday October 6th Preston Moviemakers will be screening films of and about Preston from days gone by.

The second evening of film will be held on Thursday October 13th and will feature films from the renowned Lancashire Photographer and Film maker, the late Sam Hannah ARPS which will include a selection of interesting and varied documentaries.

Both events start at 7.45pmwith entrance by ticket only and are to be held at the William Wilding Galloway Hall, 131 Brackenbury Road, Fulwood, Preston PR2 3BS.

Tickets cost £3 and can be reserved by phoning : Geoff Harrison on 01772 614555 or sending a Cheque or Postal Order to: Geoff Harrison, 112 Liverpool Old Rd, Walmer Bridge, Preston. Lancs PR4 5GE made payable to 'Preston Moviemakers'

Further information about the event can be obtained by email: geoffharrison.1@btinternet.com  or via the website: http://www.prestonmoviemakers.org.uk/

You can hear a short interview clip with club chairman James Whalley talking about the club and the two anniversary screenings  by clicking on the sound icon below (this will take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

CD Release: "She Believes In Me" by Peter Anthony - released 28th September

Track Listing:
1: Il Mondo
2: Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
3: Can't Take My Eyes Off You
4: If You Love Me, Really Love Me
5: Funny Familiar Forgotten Feelings
6: Quando Quando Quando
7: She Believes In Me
8: A House Is Not A Home
9: Who Can I Turn To
10: True Love Ways
11: Las Vegas
12: And I Love You So
13: So Deep Is The Night
14: To Make You Feel My Love



This great new 14 track CD by Lytham St Annes based singer Peter Anthony was launched at a special  party at Vogue Night Club in St Annes last night. Peter sang a few songs himself and was joined on stage by lots of local entertainers who had come along to wish him well.

For each CD sold, a donation will be made to the Queendeans Association Charity in Blackpool.

You can order your copy of the CD now via Peter Anthony's official website: http://www.peteranthony.info/Contact-Peter-or-Order-a-CD.html
or why not drop into Peter's award winning Cafe Bar - "Antons" in Park Rd St Annes - and pick up your copy there...?

A few photos from the CD launch evening (below);

Bobby Ball singing on stage.  Swing singer Peter Ritmo with Miss Best Kept Secrets Sammi Marsh, Peter Anthony receiving a bouquet from a well-wisher, Lucy with Sammi.

Evening In Aid Of Brain Tumour Charity at Colne Muni - 21st October

A Charity Concert is being held at The Muni on Friday, October 21st to raise money for Brain Tumour Research and Support – in aid of a very popular and well-known Foulridge man who has just been diagnosed with a brain tumour. He is currently undergoing treatment.

Andrew Wilson wants to raise money – and awareness - for this charity and with the help of his family is organising this fund-raiser at The Muni.

Bashphelt is Andrew’s son’s band and have recently re-formed to do a series of charity gigs for Andrew. The Dangerous Brothers is one of the bands Andrew plays with, though they have got a temporary drummer to step in while Andrew undergoes treatment. Members of Tin Pan Alley are friends of Andrew's and are well liked and known in Colne from playing at the Blues Festival - and wanted to get on board.

It would be great if as many of Andrew’s friends as possible could be there, as well as anyone else who wants a good night out!

The event is being sponsored by Matthew Kibble Transport Ltd – Matthew is an old school friend of Andrew’s.
 
Andrew's daughter Rachel said:
 
"The reason we are putting this on is to raise funds and awareness of Brain Tumour Research and Support, formerly Andrea's Gift, who are based in Yorkshire. We have chosen this charity because their aim is to fund research and provide improved patient support for anyone affected by a brain tumour in Yorkshire, and it there where Dad has undergone all his treatment. At Airedale, Leeds Gerneral Infirmary and, starting this week, at Jimmy's.

"Dad's progress can be followed, in his daily blog, at www.cockerhill.co.uk/2011.html  and donations for our chosen charity can be made at http://www.justgiving.com/liveatthemuni

Cafe Of The Month Award For September: Antons Cafe Bar, St Annes

The Best Kept Secrets Cafe Of The Month Award for September 2011 has been presented to Antons Cafe Bar in Lytham St Annes.

The award certificate was presented by Miss Best Kept Secrets Sammi Marsh and handed to proprietors Peter Anthony and Paul Lomax. 

The award was sprung as a complete surprise on Peter at a dazzling party held to launch his new CD "She Believes In Me"  at Vogue night club in St Annes last night.

The Best Kept Secrets ‘Café of the Month’ Award is awarded according to various criteria, including friendly service, diversity of menu, cleanliness of establishment and of course taste of produce, not forgetting that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ known as “The Emilie Test”.

To nominate your favourite cafe, drop us a line to paul@bestkeptsecrets.biz

Dominic Kirwan Autumn Tour Dates - Exclusive Interview

Dominic Kirwan is widely regarded as one of the finest entertainers that Ireland has produced. His dynamic, vibrant performing style, coupled with his rich voice and wide repertoire never fail to delight audiences.

2011 sees the celebration of 21 successful years in music with his brand new show ‘Through the Years’. This show will give fans a fresh look at the finest in Country, Pop, Traditional Irish music and, of course, his trademark show-stopping ballads.

So join Dominic and his fabulous live band for an unforgettable evening on a journey ‘Through the Years’.

Dominic will be playing at the Municipal Hall in Colne on 7th October. To book tickest for that show, visit the Colne Muni website at: http://www.themuni.co.uk/events/live-music/dominic-kirwan-through-the-years/

For a full list of all Dominic's tour dates, check out his website here: http://www.dominickirwan.com/index.php?option=com_eventlist&view=categoriesdetailed&Itemid=164

We had a chat with Dominic about his music and the forthcoming tour and you can hear what he had to say by clicking on the sound icon below  (this may take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

MacMillan Coffee Morning - St Mary's Chambers, Rawtenstall - 30th September .

World's Biggest Coffee Morning - St Mary's Chambers, Rawtenstall,  9.30am to 12.30, Friday 30th September

also at 1000s of other venues across the country!

What is the World's Biggest Coffee Morning?

The World's Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan Cancer Support's biggest fundraising event. We ask people across the UK - and sometimes further afield - to hold a coffee morning, where donations on the day are made to Macmillan.

Last year 43,000 people signed up to hold a coffee morning, raising over £8 million.

This year we want to raise even more money to help change the lives of people affected by cancer. Find out about how Macmillan helps.

How did it start?

The event started in 1990, when a local fundraising committee decided to hold a coffee morning where people came along to meet and mingle - as they might ordinarily do - but donate the cost of their coffee to Macmillan in the process.

The idea seemed such a simple, yet effective one that they suggested the model be taken up nationally. The first National World’s Biggest Coffee Morning was in 1991, when 2,600 people registered to hold coffee mornings across the country. Since then it has raised over £60 million in total for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Over the years, the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning has grown to include many different types of event - from a traditional coffee morning with cake and conversation, to a pub quiz in the evening.

There have also been several record attempts, including the highest coffee morning (on a jet fighter in 2004), the most distant coffee morning (Antarctica in 2002) and the world’s deepest coffee morning (down Poldark Mine, Cornwall in 2002).

It's about more than just coffee...

We want our supporters to do whatever suits them - and have fun doing it. Whether it's a traditional coffee morning at home, work or school, or something different altogether – a garden party, pub quiz, or karaoke night - the main thing is getting together with friends and knowing that your collective efforts are making a huge difference to people affected by cancer.

Whatever you do, we hope you'll get together with friends, family and colleagues on Friday 30 September and raise some money (and a smile) for people affected by cancer.

To find your nearest MacMillan Coffee Morning venue, visit the website at: http://coffee.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx

Claudia Aurora - New CD Release and November Tour Dates

With a following to rival flamenco, the haunting melodies of Portuguese fado have always held listeners spellbound; Claudia Aurora is its powerful new voice. The singer-songwriter's debut album, "Silêncio", is the first collection of original fado songs to be recorded in the UK since the great Portuguese Fado diva AmáliaRodrigues recorded at Abbey Road Studios in 1952.

Claudia Aurora is a fadista (fado singer) and songwriter from Oporto, Portugal. She is based in Bristol, UK since 2003 and has built a reputation as a stunning live performer. Claudia has sung fado at numerous venues in the UK, including the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre), Momo and Heaven, in London, Royal Theatre in Norwich, and St George's in Bristol. Since 2006 she has frequently organised successful fado events, adding live Portuguese poetry to create complete cultural celebrations.

In 2008 she began writing her own lyrics and composing her own original songs with guitarist Javier Moreno. The great success achieved by her songs and the public's amazing response to them inspired and motivated her to record "Silêncio". Out October 31st in the UK on CD & Download

"Spine-tingling" (Alex Denney, NME)

"She is really amazing – one of my highlights of the year" (Viktor Wynd, The Last Tuesday Society)

"Drenched in emotion and drama" (Lucy Duran, BBC Radio 3)

"Boy, she has a voice, as elementally strong as the tides of which she sings, and as imbued with ability to induce calm and awe." (Venue Magazine)

UK NOVEMBER TOUR: ·
Wed, Nov 2, 7:30 pm    Kings Place, Hall One    London·
Sat, Nov 5, 7:30 pm    Musicport World Music Festival    Bridlington·
Sat, Nov 12, 8:00 pm    Hawth Theatre    Crawley·
Fri, Nov 18, 7:30 pm    Colchester Arts Centre    Colchester·
Sat, Nov 19, 7:30 pm    Diss Corn Hall    Norfolk·
Fri, Nov 25, 7:30 pm    Folk House    Bristol

 www.worldvillagemusic.comtwitter.com/worldvillageuk
http://www.claudia-aurora.com/
www.facebook.com/Claudia.Aurora.Fado
www.myspace.com/claudia-aurora-fado

Released by: World Village
UKRelease/catalogue number: 450020
Release date: Oct 31, 2011

FA Vase: Squires Gate FC 1 - St Helens Town 0

In the next round - due to played on 22nd October - Squires Gate will play the winner of the replay between AFC Liverpool and AFC Darwen who played out a 2-2 draw today.

Also in the NWCFL Premier Division: AFC Blackpool won 5-1 away at Stone Dominos

For more news and fixtures check out the official website at: http://www.nwcfl.co.uk/

Where to hear David Windle, Lancashire pianist/musician

Fans of David Windle can now catch up with him on Sunday lunchtimes at the Bedford Hotel in St. Annes as well as his usual 50/50 dance venues (see attached).

James Butcher - CD Signing and Concert Evening

"Best Kept Secrets....In Conversation" Show On Preston FM - Friday 7pm

There's something for everybody in our "Best Kept Secrets...In Conversation" show from 7pm this Friday on Preston FM, including:

Tina Lukacs talking about the Butterfly Group Charity's Fundraising Ball

Alex Greaves talking about the band Missing Andy and their new release

Blind Lytham St Annes singer and musician James Butcher talking about his music and when he met Katherine Jenkins (in photo)

Juanita Stein from Australian rock band Howling Bells

Coronation Street's Vicky Entwistle looking ahead to her pantomime role in Snow White and the The Seven Dwarves

Kelii Compulsive on  Obsessive Compulsive's Autumn tour and a special date in Preston

plus music from The Subways and Snake Davis.

Tune in on 103.2FM in the Preston area or "listen live" worldwide over the internet at: http://www.preston.fm/

CD Release: "When You Wish" by Grace O'Malley - in aid of Pendleside Hospice

Young Lancashire singing sensation Grace O'Malley has launched a brand new album in aid of Pendleside Hospice!

The CD can be bought at Pendleside Hospice reception and all the Hospice Shops in Burnley, Nelson and Colne for just £5.00 - with ALL proceeds going direct to the Hospice.

For more information please contact Lisa Riding in the fundraising office on 01282 440140 or email lisa.riding@pendleside.org.uk

To find out more about Pendleside Hospice, visit their website at:  http://www.pendleside.org.uk/Home

Pasadena Roof Orchestra at Fleetwood Marine Hall - 14th October

For over forty years the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, based in the UK, has delighted audiences all over the world with its mix of swing and hot dance music. Supported by Mike Lovell's six-in-a-bar+one and Rosie fronting the show.

Friday 14th October 7.30pm - 11pm

For tickets and further information, call the box office Monday to Friday 11am to 4pm
on 01253 887693

To find out what else is coming to the Marine Hall in Fleetwood, visit the website:
http://www.marinehall.co.uk/events2.php

To find out more about Mike Lovell's Six In A Bar jazz band, click here:  http://www.btinternet.com/~jazzworld/6inabar.htm

King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys - Special Live Date in Birmingham - 30th September

The legendary KING PLEASURE & THE BISCUIT BOYS make a rare hometown visit when they play the HARE & HOUNDS, KINGS HEATH [106 High St, Birmingham B14 7JZ, 0121 444 2081] on FRIDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER.

Hot from playing a series of summer jazz and blues Festivals across Europe, the KINGS OF SWING are back on the road with a series of one-nighters to promote their current album ‘LIVE AT LAST’ on BIG BEAR RECORDS available at record stores and through iTunes worldwide.

Tickets are selling like hotcakes, so to avoid disappointment on the door, get yours here: https://www.theticketsellers.co.uk/tickets/king-pleasureandthe-biscuit-boys/10017424 Priced at £10

PRESS ACCLAIM FOR KING PLEASURE & THE BISCUIT BOYS:

“The hardest act to follow since the parting of The Red Sea” PAUL JONES, BBC RADIO 2

“To those who say that swing is a musical form best left to Americans, prepare to be proven wrong. This British combo is bullet-proof!” ATOMIC MAGAZINE, NEW YORK

“Behind the fun and rollicking good times lies an outfit skilled enough for the horns to come on with the bite and precision of the Basie Band” THE GUARDIAN

“A joyous jamboree of Jazz. King Pleasure? King Wonderful!” SUNDAY MERCURY

“King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys are the genuine article, in full working order, dedicated to shaking you up and swinging you into the middle of next week.  A roaring band sound that comes at you like the Wabash Cannonball.  Resistance is futile.  Surrender to having a good time.” DAVE GELLY, THE OBSERVER

To find out more about the band, more tour dates and CD releases,  visit their website: http://www.kingpleasureandthebiscuitboys.com/

CD Release: "She Believes In Me" by Peter Anthony - coming soon!

The new 14 track CD by Lytham St Annes based singer Peter Anthony will be launched next week. For each CD sold, a donation  will be made to the Queendeans Association Charity in Blackpool.

You can pre-order your copy of the CD now via Peter Anthony's official website: http://www.peteranthony.info/Contact-Peter-or-Order-a-CD.html

More details about this exciting new release will be posted here shortly.

NWCFL Premier Division: AFC Blackpool 2 Bacup Borough 1

story to follow

see http://www.nwcfl.co.uk/  for all the local non league football action

Miss G Casino Beauty Competition - Free To Enter - No Upper Age Limit!

SEE BLACKPOOL HEAT 1 RESULT HERE: http://www.bestkeptsecrets.biz/2011/10/miss-g-casino-blackpool-heat-1.html

The Miss G Casino Beauty Competition is run between casinos in Blackpool, Sheffield, Bolton, Stoke, Manchester ( x 2) and Walsall. Each casino will put forward 4 qualifiers for the Grand Final.

There are 2 qualifying heats at each venue:
1st round - Jeans & white t-shirt ( any take on this is acceptable inc denim shorts)
2nd round - Clubwear/Dress - whichever they feel most comfortable in.

The girls will be asked some questions but they will see these beforehand and can tick which ones they would like to answer.

The Blackpool heats take place on 30th September and 7th October.
Entry to the Blackpool heats is free for spectators but anybody who is under 25 will need photo ID.

There may be a charge for spectators for heats at the other competition venues so check with your local G Casino first.

The Grand Final will be held in Blackpool on 28th October and it is likely that E4 will be filming in the casino that night.

The overall prizes are
1st - £1000 + Goodies
2nd - £500
3rd - £250

Contestants must be aged 18 or over but, unlike other beauty competitions, there is NO UPPER AGE LIMIT!

To enter the heats at Blackpool G Casino, call Jo Hindle on 01253 341222 ext 231 or email: sm_GC-Blackpool@rank.com

To find out about heats at the other G Casinos, and to find the contact details for YOUR local heat, check out the main G Casino website:  http://www.grosvenorcasinos.com/

Listen Again: Interview with Juanita of Howling Bells

You can listen "on demand" to our great interview with Juanita Stein from Aussie rock group Howling Bells simply by clicking on the sound icon below.  (this will take longer to load if you are using a Mac...)




To find out more about Howling Bells new CD and tour, click here: http://www.bestkeptsecrets.biz/2011/09/free-download-preview-from-howling.html

Burlesque At Rumes Night Club, Preston - 23rd September

Link for tickets: http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Preston/Rumes/BURLESQUE--Hangout-Harry-Reloaded/11524464/

Hangout Harry and Rumes Nightclub present an evening of excitingly extravagant performances from some of the North West’s number one performers to celebrate the start of a new era for Hangout Harry Ltd!

Join us on the close of Freshers’ Fortnight with BURLESQUE, featuring talent-filled stunners SCARLETT D'LYTE, STARLA BRIGHT & burlesque duo STAR BAZAAR, Boylesque beautyFLIXX DEMONTRANT, freakishly funny magician, SIMON SOUTH, all out dancing sensation SCARLETT DI MONTE, the vocally voluptuous KURT MANNERS, and as singing compere, the fabulously glamorous EVA FOX (in photo right)..!

DJ Bik will be making a return to the decks too, playing a cool classy selection of groovy licks from the decades after which local legend DJ KA will take over from 11.30pm for the launch of Hangout Harry Reloaded:

Dress to impress!! Best dressed will win a prize on the night!

Entry for the whole shebang (Burlesque and the launch of HH Reloaded) is a £4 if you pay in advance/NUS or £6 on the door.

You can also purchase tickets in advance from Rumes - contact Andrew on 07751 711 335 for more information

Check out the links for a taster of what BANG! you get for your BUCKS!
Starla Bright - https://www.facebook.com/starla.bright
Scarlett D'Lyte - https://www.facebook.com/scarlettdlyte
Star Bazaar - https://www.facebook.com/starbazaar
Flixx Demontrant - https://www.facebook.com/flixx.demontrant
Kurt Manners - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=657070084
Simon South - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCrgxagai2I  at the Foo Fighters gig! and FB - https://www.facebook.com/simonsoutherin?ref=ts
Eva Fox - https://www.facebook.com/missevafox  or http://www.missevafox.co.uk/

FA Cup: Squires Gate 0 Runcorn Linnets 0 - Replay Tuesday

This report was taken from the North West Counties Football League Official website. Check it out at www.nwcfl.co.uk
Squires Gate and Runcorn Linnets will both be in the draw for the next round of the FA Cup on Monday after both sides failed to break the deadlock in a goalless draw at School Road.

In the only all-NWCFL tie in the First Qualifying Round, Linnets enjoyed the better of the possession over the course of the game, but Gate had the better chances and a number of crucial saves by Linnets keeper Richie Mottram in the second half kept them in the tie.

Neither keeper was seriously tested in the opening half hour, and the first save of note arrived in the 31st minute when a looping volley from Squires Gate’s Scott Harries was collected under the crossbar by Linnets keeper Mottram.

The visitors hit back and created two good chances in the space of a minute. Phil Holland just missed the target with a 25 yard effort, and then Gate keeper Neil Beesley made a fine reflex save, turning a header from Rob Whyte over the crossbar from close range.

Squires Gate’s best effort of the first half came three minutes from the break, when Joe Shelmerdine collected a ball down the right flank, cut inside a defender and curled a shot just wide of the far upright.

The opening stages of the second half produced plenty of endeavour from both sides, with Linnets enjoying territorial advantage without seriously testing Beesley in the home goal.

But with just over a quarter of an hour remaining, the home side were handed a great opportunity to take the lead when Joe Shelmerdine was brought down just inside the penalty area, and the referee has no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

Shelmerdine, who converted a penalty in Gate’s midweek win over St Helens, elected to take the kick himself but his effort was blocked by Linnets keeper Mottram low down to his left.

With eight minutes remaining, Mottram was called into action again, this time making a great one handed save from Scott Harries shot after he had collected a terrific through ball from Shelmerdine that split the Linnets defence.

The closing stages of the game belonged to Linnets, who had a claim for handball in the penalty area turned down shortly before substitute Paul Prescott had a shot blocked by a last ditch tackle in the six yard box.

Squires Gate player-manager Russ McKenna said: “Runcorn are well organised and always make it difficult for you, but I thought we were the better side in the first half, and we had better chances over the course of the game. Unfortunately in the second half we missed a penalty and a good chance just after that.

“But also they put a lot of pressure on us in the last ten minutes and we rode our luck a bit, but all in all it was a decent game and I think we probably just did enough to nick it with the chances we had.

“We are playing well at the moment, and hopefully we can take that form into Tuesday night and get a win over there.”

Runcorn Linnets manager Paul McNally: “We’re probably lucky to still be in the FA Cup. The commitment from their players was tremendous today, they never stopped running, and had two clear cut chances towards the end, one of them being the penalty which Richie Mottram saved, and the other being a shot that was going into the bottom corner that he got a hand to.

“The lads are under no illusions about how tough it’s going to be in Tuesday’s replay, and we’re just happy to be in Monday’s draw. The good thing about a cup tie is that if you don’t get it right the first time, you’ve always got a chance of having another go in the replay.

"Hopefully the lads will come back on Tuesday with a better approach and we can go on to progress in the FA Cup.”

In the NWCFL Premier Division, AFC Blackpool returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory away at Silsden thanks to a 57th minute goal from Niall Cummins. That strike brings Cummins total to 7 for the season - 5th  in the Premier Division scoring standings.

AFC Blackpool are now 14th in the Premier Division table with 11 points from 8 games.  They are next at home to Bacup Borough on Tuesday 20th September - 7.45 kick off.

Visit their website at: http://www.afcblackpool.co.uk/

North West Air Ambulance Cabaret Evening - 15th October 2011

A cabaret night in aid of the North West Air Ambulance is to be held on Saturday, 15^th October 2011, starting at  7.30 p.m.  The venue is Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish Centre, St. Albans Road, St. Annes.   Among the acts appearing are Keri Ward (Britain’s Got Talent) and Steve Royle (Radio Lancashire and The Grand Theatre Christmas Pantomime).

Tickets are £5.00 to include a hot pot supper (vegetarian version available) and a raffle with some amazing prizes – star prize a holiday for two to Gibraltar, courtesy of Monarch Airlines.  

For further details and tickets, please contact Keith Mallinson on 01253 721353 or 07984477100.

Parks Art Deco Cafe in Backpool's Stanley Park to hold a MacMillan "World's Biggest Coffee Morning" on Friday, 30th September 2011

Every year MacMillan, who provide support to help improve the lives of people affected by cancer, hold a giant, world-wide coffee morning to raise funds and awareness.  This year's coffee morning is on Friday, 30th September 2011.  It's not too late to get involved if you want to organise your own coffee morning - details from  0845 602 1246 or e-mail coffee@macmillan.org.uk

Or if you just want to join in, support the cause and enjoy a relaxed coffee with friends why not go down to Stanley Park in Blackpool where there will be one of MacMillan's World's Biggest Coffee Mornings at the Parks Art Deco Cafe - 10.30 a.m. - 12.30.

Further details from 01253 395191.

Benefit Night for Indie Record Labels hit by fire: London EC2 - 5th October.

Richard Norris, Label Love and Favela London present a PIAS Fire benefit night Weds 5th October at Favela London EC2.

On the evening of Monday 9th August, the main warehouse of the PIAS distribution group was destroyed in a blaze in Enfield. The warehouse contained a large amount of stock from the UK's main independent music labels. Although the stock was insured, the loss is having a marked effect on hundreds of indie labels, whose economic position is pretty precarious in the first place.

AIM (the association of independent music) has put together a fund to help affected labels keep afloat, and benefits for labels are being held nationwide, co-ordinated by Label Love (@_label_love).

Musician and producer Richard Norris has organised a benefit at Favela London, Gt Eastern Street, Shoreditch, featuring a fine line up of London based DJ talent. 'Everyone on the bill has been affected by this one way or another', says Richard. 'This is a chance to put a little back into the independent music community that we are all part of. And also to have a cracking night.'

DJ's include Ashley Beedle, Justin Robertson, Pete Herbert, Richard Norris, Nathan Detroit, Ross Allen and Andrew Weatherall playing a rockabilly set.

THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT! Limited Early bird tickets are £6 in advance from Ticket Web (http://tinyurl.com/3vjyv3j) , then £8 or £10 on the door. The DJ's, PR, promoters, designers and venue have all given their services for free. All door money will go directly into the AIM fund.

A PIAS Benefit
Favela London
91 - 93 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HZ
8pm - 2am
Weds 5th October 2011

Ashley Beedle
Andrew Weatherall
Justin Robertson
Ross Allen
Pete Herbert
Nathan Detroit
Richard Norris

Early Bird £6; then £8 or £10 on door. Advance tickets from Ticket Web

Countdown to the Blackburn and Darwen Comedy Festival - 30th September - 23rd November 2011

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Blackburn & Darwen Comedy Festival returns this year a bit earlier than usual and we promise to have your belly aching with laughter with this hilarious line-up:Justin Moorhouse - Friday 30 September 2 Brothers & 1 World Cup - Saturday 1 October George's Comedy Club - Friday 7 October Cannon & Ball - Friday 21 October George's Comedy Club - Friday 21 October Sarah Millican - Saturday 22 October The Grumbleweeds - Saturday 29 October Micky Flanagan - Thursday 3 November George's Comedy Club - Friday 4 November Sarah Millican - Friday 11 November Ken Dodd - Saturday 12 November *Laughing Cows - Friday 18 November The Lancashire Hotpots - Saturday 19 November Lewis Costello Live - Tuesday 22 November Milton Jones - Wednesday 23 November *Please note that the line-up has changed for Laughing Cows - Mrs Barbara Nice is performing in place of Jo Enright.                             Click here to download the Festival Brochure KGH Box Office 0844 847 1664 or visit the website for more details www.blackburnanddarwencomedyfestival.co.uk

Exciting new dance classes at the White Church in Fairhaven, Lancashire

If you have always wanted to learn to dance now is your chance.  Former Champions Paul and Jean Durham have a wide selection of dance classes on offer at the White Church in Fairhaven, Lytham, Lancashire.

They also offer regular social dances where you can practice what you learn.

Dancing is a great way to keep fit and active - just ask our friend Roy who celebrated his 90th birthday last May and goes dancing at least three times a week.

Goldblade Autumn Tour Dates

Fresh from their triumphant American tour with Crass, Goldblade are back home to play dates in the UK this autumn.

A busy summer has seen the band play festivals across Europe and selected British dates. The band, recently voted 'most handsome band from the UK' by Suicide Girls website and whose anthem, 'Psycho' is to be used by a top American wrestler as his intro music and is being considered by Tarantino for his next movie, will be releasing a new album in the new year.

In the autumn the band will also be returning to America, in addition to tours of Brazil, Algeria and a date in Russia, all of which is on top of recording the new album and touring the UK.

The tour will also feature members of the band doing special tour guides for ten members of the audience who apply in advance round historical sites in the towns that they are playing in.

Frontman John Robb's best selling oral history of punk book, 'Punk Rock, An Oral History' is being released in the USA in Spring 2012 and Goldblade will be touring in support of the book in a multiple media event across the USA. Robb has also been asked to release a collection of his band interviews in Brazil where he is a cult figure.

Goldblade are also the special guests at the Stranglers convention in November.

Fri 14th October - The Masque, Liverpool
Fri 21st October - The Yorkie, Lancaster
Sat 22nd October - Fibbers, York
Fri 28th October - Butterflies, Bolton
Sat 29th October - Guildhall Gloucester
Fri 11th November - Winchester
Sat 19th November - The Camden Centre, special guests of the Stranglers at their annual convention in London
Fri 9th December - The Vic, Derby

See Davey Arthur & Friends On Blackpool North Pier - 2nd October

Enjoy an intimate evening of traditional Celtic Music and Song on Sunday 2nd October at the Merrie England Showbar on Blackpool’s North Pier with Davey Arthur and special guests.

Davey Arthur is renowned world-wide as one of Ireland's best-loved and most successful musicians with over 40 compositions being recorded and performed by some of the finest artists and bands ever to grace the world stage. He has been honoured with a place in the Irish Music Hall of Fame (Dublin).

He still tours extensively with The Fureys and has done so for over 35 years. In his new solo show An Evening with Davey Arthur & Friends, fans of The Fureys will not be disappointed as he always includes some of those well-known hits such as The Red Rose Cafe and When You Were Sweet Sixteen.

Davey Arthur is an all-round entertainer – as well as playing the banjo, guitar and mandolin, he also has a very mellow, sweet voice and his songs will stir all your emotions. He is charming, warm, and friendly; and has a delightful sense of humour, which is so evident when he is entertaining his audience during his intimate evenings with amusing tales and stories.

He has a very special way of making everyone feel part of the show - and it doesn’t end there! Davey always takes time to meet people and talk to them during the evening; he has that unique personal touch, which has become his trademark.

As Davey himself says, “I enjoy playing in the bigger band but it also gives me a buzz to play in smaller gatherings, where I can involve the audience more and create an intimate, friendly, atmosphere.”

In An Evening with Davey Arthur & Friends Davey is joined on stage by his youngest son Patrick 'Pa' Arthur on percussion and strings and also the amazing UK guitarist Steve Layton. Together they deliver a unique blend of traditional Celtic Music and Song played throughout the night on guitar, mando-cello, mandolin and percussion and of course Davey's live performances on Tenor Banjo are legendary and have earned him worldwide acclaim throughout his career.

An Evening with Davey Arthur & Friends gives the audience a rare chance to see this folk icon performing live, up close and personal and is one show that should not be missed.

Tickets for An Evening with Davey Arthur & Friends are just £12 (£10 concession) and can be booked by calling the North Pier Box Office on 01253 623304 or online via http://www.northpierblackpool.co.uk/ . You can also book via Ticketmaster on or http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/.

CD Release: SnakeStrings feat Snake Davis - preview on Preston FM!

Snake Strings Vol 1
featuring:
Snake Davis: Saxes, Flute, Shakuhachi
Jayne Coyle: Viola
Damion Browne: Cello
Adam Robinson: Violin
Raymond Lester: Violin

This new album is set for general release at the end of October but we will be playing a special preview track in our "Best Kept Secrets In Conversation" show on Preston FM on Friday 23rd September between 7 and 8pm!

SnakeStrings Volume one will be available at gigs at a cost of £10 per copy or through Snake directly for £12 (extra £2 for post and packing).

Request a paypal link by email or send a cheque made payable to Skin Records Ltd to 5 Chapel Mews, Wootton, Ulceby, DN39 6RL. Don’t forget to mention that it’s for SnakeStrings and include your return address.

For more information, including latest gig dates - visit the official website at  http://www.snakedavis.com/

The Background To SnakeStrings

At what point in time did music get classified into genres? According to Wikipedia "The term classical music did not appear until the early 19th century, in an attempt to canonize the period from Johann Sebastian Bach to Beethoven as a golden age." Jazz was a west coast of America slang term for music from Chicago in the period around 1915 and the funk genre; a blend of soul, jazz, and R&B into a rhythmic, danceable form of music was coined in the mid to late 1960's.

It's rare to meet someone who only likes music from a strict genre and it's sad that there's a need to classify as such. Music is more about passion, emotion and yes, if it moves your soul then shouldn't it be considered as soul music?

Meet SnakeStrings, a group of 5 dedicated, passionate and soulful musicians who have been drawn together through the love of their craft. Their combined credentials are impressive, having worked with some of the worlds finest conductors and soloists as well as major names in popular music.

The brainchild behind this new project is the saxophonist Snake Davis. Although he has recorded classical music before, he's better known for his sax riffs with bands such as Lisa Stansfield, M-People or even that haunting melody in Take That's "A Million Love Songs" or for his work with his own bands; The Snake Davis Band, Snake Davis & The Suspicions and The Burden of Paradise. He's known in the industry as being on the speed dial for studio session work and has worked with stars from Tom Jones to Dionne Warwick, Paul McCartney to Kylie.

The SnakeStrings project is a huge departure from Snake's normal performances and offers something completely new to the classical music arena. Finding a string quartet with the right sound and attitude for his ideas was hard but the players whose credentials include the Mercury nominated album "The Sea" by Corinne Bailey Rae, The Halle, Opera North, The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, The Pet Shop Boys and Sting to name a few knew exactly what Snake was trying to achieve.

Snake will be leading these highly accessible performances on Saxes, Flute and the Japanese Shakuhachi. They will be performing a mix of funky, classical, soulful and world music (to coin a few genres) all with the hallmark Snakey twist. Expect to hear tunes ranging from classics by Albinoni, Faure and Bach to popular tunes such as "River Deep, Mountain High" and "A Little Respect" as well as self penned numbers "Sugar Loaf Mountain" and "Shiro Sunset" Snake Davis is a respected and consummate musician who loves his craft. He's known for his passionate performances and accessible music and SnakeStrings promises to deliver again.

Their first public performance was at Hull Truck Theatre as part of the Hull Jazz Festival on July 22nd. A sold out house, standing ovations and fabulous feedback. Further dates are being scheduled for a tour starting in the Autumn.

A full list can be found at: http://www.snakedavis.com/

Ramsbottom Festival - Great Music This Weekend!

The Ramsbottom Music Festival is the North West’s newest boutique event. The festival brings together some fantastic local and international musicians together to a stunning riverside location on September 16th -18th 2011.
On the Friday R&B and soul group Mark Radcliffe and The Big Figures have been confirmed joining classic rock outfit The Animals and legendary soul singer and Stax Records veteran, Steve Cropper (pictured)  and local band - Molly Bloom.

On Saturday the amazing electro folk outfit Guillemots join indie rockers Young Knives, alternative folk band Cherry Ghost, Manchester’s own Badly Drawn Boy, local heroes Kid British, The Travelling Band, Janice Graham Band, The Rain Band and Ruby Ann Paterson.

The Sunday ends with Scottish rockers The Waterboys headlining alongside Capercaille, Mike McGoldrick, Kristy Almeida, Otis Gibbs, Sam Sweeney from Bellowhead and many more.

The festival is family friendly with an indoor cinema, strolling and outdoor theatre, fun fairs, bouncy castle, Funkademia silent disco, craft and music workshops and much more.

Funkademia will be hosting the Silent Disco tent on the Saturday which will start with a Kids DJ workshop hosted by Bop Local - DJs for the day will include Clint Boon (XFM), Mike Joyce (Bop Local/The Smiths), Phil Beckett (Bop Local), Graeme Hawley (John Stape), Nigel Clucas (Capital FM), Gareth Brooks (XFM), Kid British (DJ set), Funkademia DJ's, Zac Sargant, Mark Hogg (Slammin Boys), DJ Mart, DanceLadyDance, Darren Sykes & many more..

On the T'other stage on Saturday we have local folk favourites Harp and a Monkey, SOAS Band, Sarabeth Tucek, Mancunian blues from Denis Jones and the new female voice of folk - Lizzie Nunnery. On Sunday we have DJ’s from Bop Local, Black Lights, all female DJ troupe - Disco Mums, Biederbeck, rock blues from Jay Tamkin Band with a few more tbc.

Festival goers can also enjoy a host of foodie delights as well as delicious real ales from local brewers Outstanding who are already underway with experiments to create an exclusive festival beer. There will also be the finest in locally produced food on offer within the idyllic setting of the Ramsbottom Cricket Club.
For full details and tickets from http://www.ramsbottomfestival.com/

Address Acre Bottom, BL0 0AT Ramsbottom, United Kingdom · Get directions
Phone 0161 761 2216

Rebellion Festival 2012: Early Ticket Offer - ends 31st October

Early Ticket Prices only available from Rebellion at the moment:Weekend Ticket £95 (inc VAT) - until 31st October

Festival dates are: AUGUST 2nd - 5th 2012

TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE DIRECTLY FROM REBELLION BY CHEQUE OR CREDIT CARD (details below)

Cheques / POs payable to: Rebellion Festivals Ltd
Please send to:
65 Whitecross Rd Hereford HR4 0DQ
There is NO booking fee for tickets purchased by Cheque / Postal Order

CREDIT CARD HOTLINE:
To pay by credit card securely over the phone, please call: 02476 601 678
(00 44 2476 601678 from outside the UK)

BOOKING FEE WILL APPLY

Alternatively, email for futher information at: rebelliontickets@btinternet.com
 
Check out the official festival website at: http://www.rebellionfestivals.com/

Hazel O'Connor: Autumn Tour Dates and New CD Release

HAZEL O'CONNOR with CLARE HIRST and SARAH FISHER
"I GIVE YOU MY SUNSHINE"
Label: Cherry Red
Released: 20th October 2011

Tracklist:
01 - I Would Rather (Wonderwoman)
02 - Cinderella Moment
03 - Feeling Good
04 - Do What You Gotta Do
05 - The Very First Hello
06 - I Give You My Sunshine
07 - In These Shoes
08 - Rebecca
09 - Decadent Days
10 - That's Life

Pre-order your copy of the new CD now here: http://www.hazeloconnorofficial.com/shop.html


Hazel O'Connor Autumn Tour with Claire Hirst a:nd Sarah Fisher:
OCT 17th TELFORDS WAREHOUSE, Tower Wharf, Chester, UK
OCT 18th GEORGIAN THEATRE ROYAL, Richmond, North Yorksshire, UK
OCT 20th OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF NEW ALBUM AT THE ASSEMBLY Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, UK
OCT 21st TRADES CLUB, Hebden Bridge, UK
OCT 22nd RIVERSIDE, Quayside, Newcastle, UK
OCT 23rd FIBBERS, York, North Yorkshire, UK
OCT 24th THE LOWRY Salford Quays, Greater Manchester, UK
OCT 25th JAZZ CAFE, Camden Town, London, UK
OCT 26th OLD GREY WHISTLE TEST 40th ANNIVERSARY ON BBC RADIO 2, London, UK
OCT 28th THE CITADEL St Helens, Merseyside, UK
OCT 29th GOOLE JUNCTION Goole, East Yorkshire, UK
NOV 24th THE BROOK Portswood, Southampton, UK
NOV 25th COLSTON HALL Bristol, UK
NOV 26th CARNGLAZE CAVERNS Liskeard, Cornwall, UK
NOV 27th THE PLOUGH ARTS CENTRE Great Torrington, Devon, UK

For more information and booking links, viit Hazel's official site here: http://www.hazeloconnorofficial.com/schedule.html

See Comedian Justin Moorhouse at Blackpool Grand Theatre - 26th September

Join loveable Northern comic Justin Moorhouse as he brings his hilarious new stand up show to Blackpool’s Grand Theatre on Monday 26th September.

Manchester comedy legend Justin Moorhouse has come a long way since winning the City Life Comedian of the Year in 2000. He has starred in Ken Loach’s smash-hit film Looking for Eric, starred as Young Kenny in Peter Kay’s hugely successful TV comedy series Phoenix Nights, hosts his own daily afternoon radio show on Key 103 and recently performed to great acclaim as part of Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow at Blackpool’s very own Grand Theatre.

Justin describes himself as: “A comedian, actor, writer and radio presenter. I’m not very good at juggling or triple jump. I’m on the radio in Manchester every afternoon doing Tea Time between 4pm and 7pm. I’ve written and recorded a brand new Radio 4 sitcom called Everyone Quite Likes Justin. I delivered a car to Sally Webster recently on ITV’s Coronation Street and I can’t juggle remember. My tour is looming – please come.”
You can catch Justin live and laughing at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre this September. So don’t miss this sensational stand-up romp from one of Britain’s best comedians. Watching Justin live is a joy to behold, his comedy only coming second to his modesty. Justin didn’t write this bit. He got someone else to do it, but he agrees...
Justin Moorhouse is at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre on Monday 26th September at 8pm.
All seats £15.
Please note: there is an age restriction of 16+ years for this show.
To book for any show you can call the Box Office on 01253 743339 or click on http://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/, or visit the Grand Theatre information sales point in the Houndshill Shopping Centre.