Wedding Fair At The Glendower Hotel, St Annes, Sunday 30th October 2011

Blackpool Gazette organised a Wedding Fair at the Glendower Hotel , a Best Western Hotel, North Promenade, St. Annes-on-the-Sea, Lancashire on Sunday, 30th October 2011.

Exhibitors included, among others, Blush Bridal in Poulton, Greenwoods Menswear, Blackpool, Clouds Wedding Cars, The Wedding Guide, The Wedding Pianist, Travel Bureau, Dan Wootton Photography, Diamond Teeth Whitening and, a very innovative idea, the cartoonist Tim Wells ("Welly's Caricatures") - seen on the left, who draws cartoons either as you sit for him or from photos.

Angels Elite models showed off some beautiful wedding gowns and Mathew Lamb sang for us.  The very beautiful floral arrangements were by Margaret's Florist at St. Annes.

Wedding Fairs are a brilliant networking occasion and many of the exhibitors would also be useful for any occasion - say a special birthday or anniversary, etc.

NWCFL League Cup - 2nd Round: Wins For Mechs and Gate

AFC Blackpool beat Leek CSOB 3-0 while near neighbours  Squires Gate also progressed to the third round courtesy of a 4-0 win over Atherton LR.

Both teams return to league action in the NWCFL Premier Division on Tuesday evening. AFC Blackpool are away at Ashton Athletic while Squires Gate are away at Colne.


More info:
http://www.afcblackpool.co.uk/
http://www.nwcfl.com/

Photo: Scorer of AFC Blackpool's first goal - Grant Dell

Miss G Casino 2011 Competition - Final Result

Miss G Casino 2011 Final Result:

1st Charley Cockbain (Manchester),
2nd Nicola McConnell (Manchester),
3rd Sophie Jarvis (Blackpool)

Well done to everyone who took part.

The Final of Miss G Casino was held at Grosvenor Casino's prestigious North-West flag-ship casino overlooking the sea on the Promenade in Blackpool, near the Wave Organ and Sandcastle Waterworld.

 The event was very well attended and local celebrities such as Frank and Janice Flynn (who can be heard at the Art Deco Cafe in Blackpool's Stanley Park certain Sunday lunchtimes) Anne Cookson of the Vocal Duo Classic Sound, Ella Green (Miss Blackpool 2010), Kerry Capoverde (Miss Fylde Coast 2010), Lisa Cox (Miss Blackpool Finalist 2010), Sammi Marsh (Runner Up to Miss Radio Wave 2010 and Miss Blackpool 2010 and 2011 Finalist), Kim Braithwaite (Miss Blackpool 2010 and 2011 Finalist) and Mark Jones of Miss Fylde Coast and Miss England - to name but a few

The judges were Karen Cookson of Angels Elite Model Agency, Sophie-Leigh Anderson (Miss Fylde Coast 2011) Duncan Norvell the comedian, Brian Rose the boxer (who has a title fight coming up) and Robin Duke, Entertainment Editor of Blackpool Gazette.

Contestants came from Blackpool, Manchester, Stoke, Bolton and Sheffield.  There were two rounds - one with tee shirts and jeans and the second with evening dresses.  The standard was very high indeed, which must have made it extremely difficult for the judges.

 In all it was a really fabulous evening compered by Joey Blower who was extremely funny and made it all very entertaining.  There was entertainment during the interval with street dancing followed by a singer.

Instead of a raffle, guests were asked to write down their predictions of the winner. Proceeds went to the Marie Curie cancer charity.

A huge thank you to all the staff behind the scenes at G Casino who made it possible - especially Maxine Gibbons and Jo Hindle.

Dress Of The Day: Worn by Cherelle Slater from Bury (right in photo). Cherelle represented Manchester Bury New Road G. Casino and is Miss Bury 2011.

I was invited,by my good friends Lucy and Paul to attend an evening out at the G.Casino in Blackpool,lastFriday 28th October,to watch the final of MISS G.CASINO.What a fantastic evening it was.The contestants were all from surrounding areas,ie,Manchester,Bury,Liverpool even as far as Lichfield Staffordshire and of course our own Fylde Coast.

It was a fasinating experience for me,as I wanted to give my opinions on the fashion section,also the evening gowns worn by the contestants. For me in my experience,in my own modelling career,you still know what to look for ,that is outstanding.

The most amazing evening dress,in my opinion,was the one worn by Cherelle Slater,currently Miss Bury.The picture of her taken with myself does mot do the dress justice at all. As they all lined up for the final step in their glamourous,glitzy gowns,the gown worn by Cherelle,was the very simple Black and Silver creation,which was Italian designed.

The style and cut of this gown was simply stunning to say the least,and of course she wore it superbly,you have to know how to carry this style of gown the way she did,but again these  contestants were in it to win it.

For a girl so young she wore this gown with pure class - it did outshine all the others.When I spoke to her after the show,I remarked on her choice of gown,she told me she thought it was just as nice as the other contestants,sorry Cherelle but no it was not. It was simply STUNNING, keep entering these events,  Cherelle, but most of all stick to CLASS,I am sure you will be a winner one day.

Well done to G.CASINO for a great event,raising money for a worthy cause in Marie Curie for Cancer,a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Barbara

"In Conversation" Show on 103.2 Preston FM, this Friday 7pm

In our "Best Kept Secrets...In Conversation" show on 103.2 Preston FM this Friday 28th October from 7pm, we will be talking to:

legendary singer/songwriter Roy Harper
Bispham High School Deputy Head John Topping
Royal Ballet piano accompanist Debbie Parkes
Singer /Songwriter Kate McGill
Jazz trombonist Dennis Rollins
Graham Crabb from Pop Will Eat Itself
Jazz vocalist Clare Teal (pictured)
and David Goo from the David Goo Variety Band.

There's lots of great music from the month's new releases as well as a track from top Lytham St Annes crooner Peter Anthony.

You can tune in to Preston FM on 103.2FM in the broadcast area or worldwide over the internet by going to http://www.preston.fm/ and clicking on "listen live"

Fashion Show at the Bedford Hotel in aid of Brian House organised by the Rotary Club of St. Annes-on-the-Sea, Lancashire

On Wednesday, 26th October 2011, the Rotary Club of St. Annes-on-the-Sea organised a very successfull and well-attended Fashion Show in aid of Brian House (Trinity Hospice) with delicious afternoon tea at the lovely Bedford Hotel in St. Annes.

Lisa from Brian House was on hand to explain that Trinity Hospice, of which Brian House is a part, receives no funds whatsoever from any other source than public donations.  Brian House was opened in 1996 to provide care for children and babies needing care due to cancer.

On show was Designer Jewellery by Avril and a range of stylish, top-fashion clothes available at French Design fashion shop at 24 Norbreck Road, Norbreck, Blackpool.

The Hartley Beauty Salon of Ansdell donated discount vouchers for every guest.

Volunteer models for the afternoon were Jane, Julie, Susan and Adrianne who showed off a wide range of up-to-date clothes from leisure wear, day wear through to evening wear.

During the show we were entertained by a CD of swing-time songs by Rod Stewart.

Behind the scenes help came from Deena, Diana and Chloe

Natalie Oyston from Lancashire Magazine joined our table. Natalie’s Mother was one of the models.

For further information:

Brian House/Trinity Hospice, Blackpool - http://www.trinityhospice.co.uk/

The Rotary Club of St. Annes-on-the-Sea meet every Tuesday at Fylde Rugby Club 18.30 for 19.45

Bedford Hotel, St. Annes – Coffee Shop and Eaterie, plus Sunday lunch with David Windle on keyboard – http://www.bedford-hotel.com/

French Design for ladies fashion, Norbreck Road, Norbreck – http://www.frenchdesignblackpool.co.uk/

Lancashire Magazine – the county's fastest-growing glossy monthly - www.countymags.co.uk

Hartley Beauty Salon , Woodlands Road, Ansdell – http://www.hartleybeauty.com/

Designer Jewellery by Avril - 01253 304769 .

A Tribute to the Frank Sinatra Era at The Sands Venue in Blackpool

Talented entertainer Richard Shelton, who played the role of Frank Sinatra in 'Rat Pack Confidential' (left of photo), will be appearing at the fabulous Sands Venue cabaret in Blackpool at their very popular Swing Saturdays on the following dates:   Saturday 12th November, Saturday, 19th November and Saturday 26^th November 2011.

Richard, who among other things starred in the popular television soap “Emmerdale”, sings many of the songs made famous by Frank Sinatra. Richard is accompanied by the Sands Swing Band. Devotees of Sinatra will not be disappointed with this very professional show. 

Celebrity guests are frequent visitors to sing at The Sands Saturday Swing Nights.

Tickets, including a three-course meal, are £29.99 or to watch the show only £15.50

For further information or to book, call 01253 625262

Or check out The Sands Website at http://www.the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/ 

Cercle Francais de St. Annes Lancashire/St. Annes French Circle

Le Cercle Français de St. Annes tiennent leurs réunions chaque deuxième lundi au centre communautaire de l'église St. Margaret, Rowsley Road, St. Annes-on-the-Sea, Lancashire.

Nous y sommes allés lundi le 24 octobre et Madame Joan McLean nous a parlé de "Paris Moins Connu":

Paris
Sous la pluie
On s'ennuie -
Que faire?

Madame McLean nous a emmené visiter des endroits a Paris rarement vu par les touristes - l'atelier des tapisseries Gobelins, les Catacombes et le Canal St. Martin.

Après ça, une bonne  tasse de café ou de thé et l'occasion de bavarder un peu et voilà une soirée très agréable.  

Pour des renseignements sur les prochains réunions du Cercle Français de St. Annes, téléphoner Monsieur Alan Cantor ou Madame Gillian Cantor sur 01253 724472.

Book Now For Swing Commanders in Blackburn - 2nd November

The Swing Commanders are presenting a concert in the Westholme Theatre on Meins Road in Blackburn at 7.30pm on Wednesday November 2nd. Tickets are £12 for adults and £6 for concessions from 01254 506070, preferably calling weekday mornings, or on the door.

The Swing Commanders are known as Europe’s number one Western Swing Quintet and specialise in 1940’s Swing, Jazz and Bluegrass. In addition to performing throughout the British Isles they have proved their credentials with successful tours to Texas as well as Paris and Holland and are performing in Spain later this November.
 
More information is on their website (http://www.swingcommandersupdates.co.uk/ ), but don’t miss them at Westholme School on November 2nd

Beverley Knight - FREE SHOW at Blackpool North Pier Theatre - 4th November

Soul sensation Beverley Knight will perform a very special FREE concert at Blackpool’s North Pier Theatre on Friday 4th November to celebrate it’s re-opening after a temporary closure for essential renovation and refurbishment work.

The UK’s queen of soul Beverley Knight will perform an intimate “up close and personal” concert at the famous North Pier Theatre next month and tickets will be FREE.

The show will feature Beverley singing all greatest hits as well as songs from her recently released seventh album Soul UK. She has sold over a million albums in her career so far and has been the UK’s most consistently successful soul artiste since making her debut in 1995.

The soul queen is a winner of three MOBO awards including best R&B Artist twice; won the Outstanding Achievement award at the 2005 Urban Music Awards; nominated for Mercury Music Awards and the Brits Awards and in 2007 collected an MBE for her services to music and charity.

Tickets to the concert are FREE – to get yours, simply call in to the Box Office between 11am and 3pm or the Merrie England Showbar after 7pm on either Wednesday 26th or Thursday 27th October. Please note that tickets will be given on a “first come first served basis” with a maximum of two free tickets given per household.

Renee Sedgwick, Blackpool North Pier’s Creative Director said, “This is an amazing opportunity for people to get to see one the country’s biggest stars perform live, up close and personal in the North Pier Theatre and we are so pleased that we are able to offer tickets for free! It is an exciting time for us at the Pier and we hope that both residents in the area and visitors alike will enjoy and support what we are doing. We will be announcing more big names, shows and special events very soon.”

Beverley Knight has performed live and collaborated with many legendary artists including Prince, Santana, Jamiroquai, Courtney Pine, Roni Size, Jools Holland, Redman, Musiq Soulchild, Wyclef Jean, Bryan Adams, Lionel Richie, Take That That, Ronnie Wood and Chaka Khan.

Beverley is seen regularly on our television screens appearing in two series of the hit BBC1 show Just The Two Of Us, as well as guesting on ITV’s Loose Women and more recently BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind when she won with her specialist subject Prince.

Beverley Knight – Up Close and Personal starts at 7.30pm on Friday 4th November with support artistes including Sam Clark, best known for his role in Neighbours who will be performing a selection of his hit songs.

Halloween Ghost Hunt At Blackpool North Pier Theatre - 31st October

Blackpool-based Supernatural Events is back with a thrilling, chilling Halloween spooktacular to celebrate its fifth anniversary - a ghost tour and investigation at Blackpool North Pier Theatre!

Blackpool’s North Pier Theatre will be opening its doors for a very special eerie event on Halloween Night (Monday 31st October) – a late night ghost tour and investigation by the award-winning Supernatural Events.

Those attending will get the chance to visit areas that many believe to be haunted including the auditorium, stage, and areas not normally accessed by the public including dressing rooms and backstage; in a quest to find out what really goes on “behind the scenes”

On this investigation you will have the opportunity to spend four hours ghost hunting using paranormal investigative equipment such as crystal pendulums, dowsing rods, thermometers, energy meters and motion detectors!

Supernatural Events took a break while its founder Stephen Mercer wrote his first paranormal-based book – Haunted Blackpool - a terrifying collection of true-life tales of ghostly encounters in the resort. Now the company returns with a Halloween treat! Stephen said, “The North Pier Theatre has been one of the most popular locations for ghost tours in the town and I’m looking forward to bringing people back there to see if they can experience anything paranormal. The theatre was investigated by Para-Projects for the television series Spook School made by the same team behind Most Haunted (Live) a couple of years ago and through many scientific-based tests the investigators concluded that there was definitely some paranormal activity taking place in the theatre!”

Stephen will also be appearing at a Book Signing event at Waterstones in Bank Hey Street, Blackpool on Saturday 29th October from 12.15pm to 3pm, where he will be talking about the book and giving some first hand accounts of some of the spookiest places in the town.

Places for the Halloween Ghost Tour and Investigation at Blackpool North Pier Theatre Ghost Tours cost just £20 and must be booked in advance. You can either email bookings@supernaturalevents.co.uk or visit the North Pier Box Office situated at the front of the pier Monday to Friday between 11am and 3pm.

Further details on this event is available at http://www.supernaturalevents.co.uk/ , where you can also register for regular e-newsletters to be informed about the forthcoming series of ghost tours, investigations and Blackpool Ghost Walks as soon as they are organised.

Review: Clare Teal at the Sands Venue in Blackpool, 21st October

Ooh la la! The Sands have done it again!

Clare Teal and her Band (Simon Little on Bass, Ben Reynolds on drums and dep Rob Taggert on piano) were at The Sands Venue in Blackpool on Friday, 21^st October 2011.  Clare, who was at the Savoy Hotel in London on Wednesday, 19^th October to receive an award from the British Association of Songwriters, Composers and Authors for her contribution to the British music scene, performed to a packed house. 

The very appreciative, enthusiastic audience (which included Elaine and Jenny from Gainsborough) were treated to a wide selection of songs from Clare’s extensive repertoire and her CDs.  Clare, who looked stunning in an elegant black tuxedo with diamante top, slides effortlessly from one style to another and the evening included her versions of songs such as “Try a Little Tenderness”, a very lively rendition of “Tea for Two” a la Anita O’Day and a couple of Portuguese samba songs, finishing with Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” as an encore.

The last song of the night was accompanied by Neil Shatliff who is in Bandleader at the Sands and plays trumpet in the Sands Swing Band on Saturdays.  Wonderful!

To find out more about Clare please see her website - http://www.clareteal.co.uk/

To find out who is coming to the Sands Venue in Blackpool, please see http://www.the-sands.co.uk/

Art Exhibition "The World is Mine To Paint Too", Sides Art & Frames, Lytham, From 21st October 2011

“Art isn’t about communication.  It’s about the search for significance and control in a world of anonymity and chaos” - Guy Denning.

Local artist Robin Ross has organised another successful exhibition with the aim of bringing urban street art into main stream art galleries.

Works from Anthony Micallef, Adam Neate, Blek Le Rat, Nick Walker, Pedro Matos, Eelus, Swoon, Agent Provacateur, Kimmings, James Baker, Askew, Grafter, Dan Baldwin, Irek Tankpetrol, Guy Denning, Whitney McVeigh and Craww are showing in the exhibition entitled “The World is mine to paint too…!” at Sides Art & Frames Gallery in Lytham, Lancashire from 21^st October 2011.

It is particularly interesting to be able to talk to an artist about his work and Irek Tankpetrol from Poland was on hand at the launch on 20^th October to explain the thinking behind the pieces he is exhibiting.  It is a shame that Irek's street artwork is no longer on North Pier for us to view.  However you can still see samples from “Sand, Sea & Spray” in the bus station and Cookson Street car park in Blackpool.

Whether or not you saw and enjoyed Robin’s summer exhibition of urban street art “Sand Sea & Spray” in Blackpool this year, this gallery exhibition is an absolute ‘must see’. 

Sides Art & Frames, South Westby Street, Lytham, Lancashire. 01253 737490.

Clare Teal at the Sands Venue Blackpool - Review & Interview

Listen out for our exclusive interview with Clare Teal in our "Best Kept Secrets...In Conversation" on 103.2 Preston FM next week.

A review of her terrific performance at the Sands in Blackpool will be posted here shortly.

Book Now For The Swinging Blue Jeans At Lowther Pavilion - 13th November

Sunday 13th November 2011 - 7.30pm
Lowther Pavilion, Lytham St Annes - tel: 01253 794221
email: boxoffice@lowtherpavilion.co.uk

Formed in Liverpool in 1961 as The Bluegenes, The Swinging Blue Jeans followed virtually the same path to success as many of their Merseybeat contemporaries during the early 1960s.

After playing a succession of local dance halls and club engagements, including the Cavern Club, they traveled to Germany and appeared at the Star Club, Hamburg. The Jeans had their own 'Tuesday Guest Night' while they were resident band at the Cavern. One of the first bands they invited as their guests were The Beatles!

The Swinging Blue Jeans were originally founded by Ray Ennis and Les Braid. In 1962, they were signed to a recording contract by HMV Records and their debut single It's Too Late Now in 1963 just crept into the British charts at Number 30. Their next single Hippy Hippy Shake crashed into the Hit Parade and just fell short of the Number 1 slot. Their follow-up release, Good Golly Miss Molly followed suit and their next single You're No Good reached Number 3 in Britain. They famously engaged in a punch up with the Rolling Stones at the BBC studios during recording of the first show of Top of the Pops as a result of an argument over a ball point pen for signing autographs.

One of Britain's goodtime bands, they were essential a visual group, and they could never hope to capture the excitement of their live performances on record. And, after scoring in the charts once more with Don't Make Me Over in 1966, their career went into a steep decline.


However, despite several line-up changes The Swinging Blue Jeans are still going strong. Until May 2010, when he made the decision to retire, The Swinging Blue Jeans still featured original member Ray Ennis - lead, rhythm guitar and vocals (centre front) with Phil Thompson, drums, and Alan Lovell, lead guitar, vocals. Les Braid died in 2005.


Show info and booking link: http://www.lowtherpavilion.co.uk/viewshow.php?id=60

Frank Flynn Trio Next Live Date - 19th October

Frank Flynn Band in Concert at North Shore Methodist Church

Dickson Road, Blackpool

Wednesday 19th October At 7.30 pm
 
Pay on the door - refeshments available

Ice Hockey: Flyers Shot Down By Battling Bulldogs

Fylde Flyers ice hockey team came away from a tough away match at Bradford Bulldogs on the wrong end of a 9-2 defeat. (SOG 51-45)

Flyers Latvian Elvis Veldze scored both Fylde goals (2+0) with Bobby Caunce getting an assist (0+1). New signing Andy Clark was named MVP for the Flyers.

Flyers' next match is away at 2nd placed Flintshire Freeze on Sunday 6th November.

As a newly formed club, Fylde Flyers have been give special dispensation from the league to play some of their away games first while the rink is being prepared to stage home games. 

Provision of safety netting etc to allow home matches to go ahead is well under way and home games are expected to be staged shortly. watch this space!

NWCFL: Mixed Fortunes For Gate and Mechs

AFC Blackpool and Squires Gate FC both faced high flying opposition in the NWCFL Premier Division but ended up with varying results.

Gate came away from Runcorn Town with an impressive 1-0 away victory while Mechs' defensive errors cost them dear (photo) as they lost 2-5 at home to Winsford.

Gate are 19th in the league table while AFC Blackpool are 8th in their first season in this higher division, having won promotion from Division One last season.

Next Saturday Squirs Gate entertain AFC Dazrwen in the FA Vase while AFC Blackpool are away at St Helens Town in NWCFL Premier Division.

For all the NWCFL news, vsiit the official website at http://www.nwcfl.co.uk/

Clare Teal Coming to Sands Venue, Blackpool - 21st October / Exclusive Interview

Voted ‘Best Vocalist’ at the 2005 and the 2006 British Jazz Awards, Clare Teal is, quite simply, a major star. With an extraordinary voice, the ability to write songs that promise to become classics and a wonderfully sharp wit, Clare is a complete entertainer.

Described as “a sensation in the world of jazz” by the Mail On Sunday, Clare possesses a unique, effortless voice that has a distinctive richness and warmth balanced by a rare subtlety and intimacy.

 Doors Open 7pm
Show Starts between 9pm-9.30pm
Includes delicious 3 course meal
Smart Dress Code Only
Booking link here: http://the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/artists/76/Clare-Teal/1492

We had a chat with Clare looking ahead to her appearance at the Sands in Blackpool. You can hear what she had to say by clicking on the sound icon below now (this will take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

Exclusive Interview with Dennis Rollins

We met up with top jazz trombonist Dennis Rollins recently when he made a special appearance at the Sands Venue in Blackpool.

He had lots of fascinating things to say and you can have a listen by clicking on the relevant sound icon below (please note this will take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):

Showcase: Rebellion Festival 2011 Review on Preston FM - 14th October

We'll be broadcasting our special review of the 2011 Rebellion Festival this Friday evening on Preston FM from 7pm and it will include a special in depth interview with Colleen, Keith and Paul from Detroit punk band Choking Susan talking about - and playing tracks from - their new CD release.

Also featured are interviews with:
Jennie Russell Smith  (co-organiser)
David Worth (Cartoonist)
Dod Morrison (photographer)
Gary Packman
Louise Distras
Billy Liar

and music from Cock Sparrer, Mauri Clash City Rocker, Rust, The A Heads & Los Fastidios

You can tune in to Preston FM on 103.2FM in the broadcast area or listen worldwide via the internet at http://www.preston.fm/

Photo: Lucy with Choking Susan

East Meets West: Roy Hardacre (90) attempts to bowl a maiden over

Proving just how good a sport crown green bowling is for keeping fit and alert, Roy Hardacre from East Lancashire recently challenged Barbara Wright-Hurst from West Lancashire to a bowling contest.  In a competitive series of games, Roy lost 21 : 0 and 21 : 8.

Watch this space for details of the return match.

For information on crown green bowling see www.crowngreenbowls.org

Ice Hockey: Book Seats On Flyers Away Coach To Bradford - 15th October

Fylde Flyers ice hockey team will be running a coach to their away match at Bradford Bulldogs this Saturday 15th October (4.30pm face off).

The coach will leave the Sub Zero rink at Cleveleys at 1pm and make a pick up at the Saddle Pub on Whitegate Drive, Blackpool, at 1.30pm.  Further pick ups can be arranged if required at Bolton West (Rivington) services on the M61 and Birch services on the M62.

The price  for a seat on the coach will be approx £8 depending on numbers and places will be allocated on a "first come first served" basis.

For more information, contact team manger Mick Caunce on 07595 393277.

Peter Ritmo Sings for Diners at The Pavilion Restaurant, St Annes

Popular swing singer Peter Ritmo will be singing for diners at the Pavilion Restaurant in Ashton Gardens, St Annes on selected Friday evenings in the run up to Christmas.

Peter sings songs made famous by such great names as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr and Matt Monro and his easy going style makes him a relaxing accompaniment to this wonderful a la carte dining experience. 

The music is not too loud (last week we were sitting right in front of the speaker and could still have a pleasant conversation) so this really is an enjoyable evening (see our review here:

Peter will be singing for diners on Friday 14th and Friday 21st October - with more dates to be confirmed during November and December.

The Pavilion Restaurant is open on Thursday Friday and Saturday evenings - for more information or to book your table, call 01253 724440

or check out the website at http://www.ashtonpavilion.com/

The Ashton Pavilion also operates as a tea room during the daytime 7 days a week.  

Urban & Contemporary Art Exhibition, Lytham St Annes - from 21st October

Christmas Party Nights At Blackpool Football Club - During December

Friday 9th December 2011
Saturday 10th December 2011
Friday 16th December 2011
Friday 23rd December 2011

Champagne Reception on arrival from 7.15pm
Meal 8pm

Starter: Bloody Mary Soup
(A Rich roasted tomato Soup with a generous measure of Russian Vodka, accompanied with optional Worcestershire Sauce)

Main Course: Fresh Turkey Parcel
Filled with a seasonal Forcemeat and Cranberry folded and wrapped in a Cross of Smoked Bacon on a Sage and Onion Creamed Potato finished with a White Wine Jus

or Individual Crisp Pastry Tart
Filled with Goats Cheese and Cranberry, served with a Baby Leaf salad

or Vegetarian Option

Dessert: Individual Rich Fruit Christmas Pudding
Served with a Brandy laced sauce and finished with fresh Cream

Coffee & Mints

Resident DJ, Live Band, Carriages 2am

£29.50 per person
For bookings or more information contact John Rodgers, Sales & Events Coordinator on 01253 685023 Fax 01253 408477

Email: john.sales@blackpoolfc.co.uk  

Sporting Evening With World Cup Referee Graham Poll - 10th November

Sporting Evening at Blackpool Football Club with guest speaker Graham Poll, ex Premiership & World Cup Referee

Also: comedian Gary Skyner with appearance by Ian Holloway

Champagne Reception, 4 Course Dinner, Raffle and Auction

Tickets £35.00 or £350 for table of ten

Tel 01253 685023 or www.eticketing.co.uk/blackpoolfc

All proceeds go to Trinity Hospice chosen Charity of the Football League

Seasiders Soul Club Launch, Blackpool FC - 22nd October

Saturday 22nd October 2011


Come to the launch of The Seasiders Soul Club at the Seasiders Bar,Blackpool FC,Bloomfield Road,Blackpool. Saturday 22nd October 2011.

Admission £4(the first 100) £5 thereafter. 8pm-2am .

Loads of free parking,fantastic venue,realistic bar prices.

DJ Line up-Keith Fletcher,Rod Allsworth & Jimmy Scriv

Fine Dining: The Pavilion Restaurant, Ashton Gardens St Annes

 Lucy: The 7th of October was always a special day in our house when I was growing up – it was my parents’ Wedding Anniversary and they always celebrated.

Now that they are no longer with us, it is still a special day for me and there could be no better way to remember the day than at the Pavilion Restaurant in Ashton Gardens in St Annes-on-the-Sea, Lancashire, where as well as their delicious day-time fare, a special evening menu is on offer on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.

On Friday, 7th October, the Pavilion restaurant also offered musical entertainment as Peter Ritmo was there to sing for diners. Peter’s extensive, impressive repertoire includes classic songs made famous by the Rat Pack, Matt Munro and Bobby Darin. Peter sang for over two and a half hours without taking a break. Add to that the delicious food on offer and you have a recipe for perfect evening out.

Paul:

I had the leek and potato soup as a starter and it was smooth and creamy and served piping hot.  However, it wasn't just your run of the mill "whizz everything together in a blender" sort of thing as there were little bits of leek in it so you could really see what you were getting. It came with a lovely fresh roll - rather large to be honest  - but an excellent way to start the meal.

Lucy had the Sweet Potato Rostis to start - 2 of those with topped with grilled goats cheese and, with a small salad on the side and some home made onion chutney, this could have been a meal all on its own! 

For the main course I had the lamb shoulder. This was a really tender, succulent cut of lamb that meted in your mouth. I don't normally like peas but the minted pea puree was also very pleasant. I had the green beans as a side order and also pushed the boat out to try the chunky chips - you can always tell how good a restaurant is by their chips and how they are cooked...!

Lucy had the Vegetable Bake which consisted of aubergine, tomato, courgette, rocket and sweet potato in a tomato passata sauce and a side salad to go with it. I had a try of the Bake and this was also very tasty - it is nice to know that restaurants can show a bit of imagine with their meat free dishes and not just rely on the previously over used "mushroom risotto" option.

We'd like to tell you how nice the desserts were but to be honest, after eating all that, we didn't have any more room left to try any! We have had desserts there in the past, however, and they have always been tasty imaginative and above all fresh.  The teas and coffees are very nice (they have their own blends prepared by Atkinson of Lancaster) and we quite often drop in for a coffee during the daytime as well.

Whether it's a special occasion or just a night off from cooking, the Pavilion Restaurant in its delightful Ashton Gardens setting is a really nice place to go for a meal. Daytime or evening - why not give it a try? 

To find out more, visit their website at: http://www.ashtonpavilion.com/

  

CD Release: Songs Of Love And Loss - Roy Harper / Exclusive Interview

Roy Harper - Songs Of Love And Loss (2CD)
Cat. No.: SALVODCD222
Barcode: 698458822222
Playing Time: Approx 2 hours

CD1: 01. Black Clouds / 02. Girlie / 03. All You Need Is / 04. Francesca / 05. East Of The Sun / 06. Little Lady / 07. North Country / 08. I’ll See You Again / 09. Naked Flame / 10. Commune /11. Frozen Moment

CD2: 01. Davey / 02. Another Day / 03. South Africa / 04. Hallucinating Light / 05. Sleeping At The Wheel / 06. Waiting For Godot / 07. The Flycatcher / 08. On Summer Day / 09. Cherishing The Lonesome / 10. My Friend / 11. One More Tomorrow /12. Forever

CD Description
"Kate Bush sang with him. Led Zeppelin sang about him. Pink Floyd once asked him to sing lead. Fleet Foxes and Joanna Newsom adore him" - The Sun.

And now Roy Harper has come up with a new compilation on the Salvo label. Compiled by Roy himself `Songs Of Love And Loss is a 2CD collection of the talented lyricist, vocalist and guitarist s most celebrated love and lament songs.

The album comes with a 20 page booklet including rare photos, lyrics and a commentary by Roy on each song. "My love songs are often hidden by the more epic things I attempt," comments Roy, "It's been a long time ambition of mine to gather a dynamic mix of them together in just their own context. It was a rewarding labour of love for me! Hope you enjoy it ."

Includes 23 tracks from 11 different albums from Sophisticated Beggar in 1966 to Death Or Glory in 1992.

We had a chat with Roy about this new CD and you can hear what he had to say by clicking on the sound icon below (please note this may take longer to load if you are using a Mac...):


The full interview will be broadcast in our "Best Kept Secrets...In Conversation" Show on Preston later this month - details to follow.

Ice Hockey; Five Star Elvis Spurs Flyers To Scare Sharks!

English National League Div 2 North: Solway Sharks 18 - Fylde Flyers 6  (6-2, 1-3, 11-1)

New Cleveleys based ice hockey team Fylde Flyers made the long trip home from Scotland last night with their heads held high after a battling performance against league leaders Solway Sharks.

Following last weekend's 16-0 shut out,  a stronger Flyers side boosted by the debut of Latvian under 20 international player  Elvis Veldze came away with a creditable 6 goals under their belts.

Trailing 6-2 at the end of the first period, Flyers actually out scored their opponents 3-1 in the second before the Sharks greater experience and strength in depth won out to lead them to a 18-6 victory.

Debutant Veldze scored 5 goals and was given the Most Valuable Player award for the Flyers. The other goal was added by Ric Hulme while Bobby Caunce weighed in with 3 assists.

Flyers are away at Bradford Bulldogs next Saturday 15th October - face off 4.30pm

You can read the Solways Sharks own website report here: http://www.solwaysharks.co.uk/

NWCFL Premier Division: Squires Gate 2 - AFC Liverpool 2

Miss G Casino: Blackpool Qualifiers - Heat 2

The qualifiers from Blackpool's heat 2 were Lauren Carr (left) and Sophie Jarvis (right).

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.

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

To find out about heats at the other G Casinos, check out the main G Casino website: http://www.grosvenorcasinos.com/

Royal Ballet Students at the Globe Theatre, Blackpool Pleasure Beach

The Royal Ballet School, one of the world’s most prestigious ballet schools, left its London base and headed north to Blackpool and the iconic Pleasure Beach for a special day of dance classes with local Blackpool primary schools.

Pupils from The Royal Ballet School bypassed rides such as SpongeBob’s Splash Bash and the Big One, and instead headed to the Globe Theatre, a large modern venue found nestled amongst the numerous rides of the park.

The Royal Ballet School’s visit to Pleasure Beach was the fourth successive annual visit where the school showcases its primarySTEPS programme. The programme was introduced in 2008 following a partnership between Bispham High School and The Royal Ballet School, which recognised talented dancers at the Bispham school. This special programme introduces children aged 7 – 8 years old to ballet.

400 very ballet-conscious children from local schools – boys as well as girls - filed into the Globe Theatre on Thursday, 6^th October. They followed the hour-long, inter-active ballet class with great enthusiasm and some of the children were invited onto the stage to join in the class. 

No ballet class would be the same without piano music and this class was no exception.  Debbi Parks, accomplished pianist/composer/arranger who plays for Royal Ballet Classes as well as being a musical director for theatre, travelled to Blackpool with members of the Royal Ballet. 

The Pleasure Beach provided the lovely Globe Theatre free of charge in a bid to inspire children to take up dance. The Park has for many years run its own shows, including the award winning Hot Ice Show and the acclaimed Forbidden in partnership with its theatre production company, Stageworks Worldwide Productions.

Amanda Thompson, Pleasure Beach Managing Director commented, “I’m delighted to welcome back the Royal Ballet School to Pleasure Beach. Working with the local community is very important to us, so to be able to host 5 local schools for the workshops is fantastic”.

Ice Hockey - Flyers Look For Revenge Over Sharks

Fylde Flyers ice hockey team make a quick return to Dumfries on Saturday for a second game away at Solway Sharks in just over a week and will be looking to improve on last Saturday's 16-0 defeat

Team manager Mick Caunce said:
"The Sharks like us are in there first season in the English league but they have played many years as a top Scotish team (2009/10 NL champions) they now want to try there hand south of the border and are looking favourites to win the EIHA North Div II and gain this seasons automatic promotion slot.

They have had some impressive results in the Northern Cup also with a 7 - 1 win over Div I Whitley Warriors (last seasons Div I champions) and 2 - 1 win away at Billingham who have re-born after a season out for a rink refurbishment.

We travel this week with a few changes and hope to improve on last week's result."

for all the leagues results and fixtures go to: http://www.eiha.co.uk/SeniorLeagues/EnglishNational/ENNorth2.aspx

Photo: Flyers captain Wayne Whitby was MVP in the match at Solway last Saturday.

PARKS ART DECO CAFE STANLEY PARK BLACKPOOL FY3 9EQ SUNDAY LUNCHTIME MUSIC PROGRAMME

The popular Sunday lunch-time dates at the Parks Art Deco Cafe in Stanley Park are back. If you missed the 3 Musikateers last Sunday, never mind - here is the programme for the next few weeks:

Sunday, 9th October 2011 - Flip
Sunday, 16th October 2011 - Frank Flynn Trio
Sunday, 23rd October 2011 - Rob Bee and Rae Morris
Sunday, 30th October 2011 - That Swing Thing
Sunday, 6th November 2011 - That Swing Thing
Sunday, 13th November 2011 - Flip
Sunday, 20th November 2011 - Frank Flynn Trio
Sunday, 27th November 2011 - Mark and Lewis Nelson

Booking is advisable if you would like waitress-service Sunday lunch, otherwise the usual self-service menu and ice creams are available.
For Reservations please call 01253 395191

For further information please see their website:  http://www.parksartdecocafe.co.uk/

Professional Music Workshops At Uncle Tom's Cabin, Blackpool - 25th October

There's a great opportunity to learn from some true music professionals on Tuesday 25th October as top drummer Steve White and singer songwriter Sam Gray are holding a workshop at Uncle Tom's Cabin in Blackpool.

Steve White is one of Britain's finest drummers of the last 30 years (Paul Weller, Style Council, Ocean Colour Scene, Oasis and The Who) while Sam Gray is a new, up-and-coming guitarist and singer-song writer featured on both BBC Radio 2  and Paul & Lucy's Best Kept Secrets on Preston FM

This will be an entertaining evening of music, musicianship, song writing and survival techniques of establishing and maintaining a career as a working musician and those all elusive record deals and major tours.
Tickets £10 in advance and available from Uncle Tom's Cabin (Queens Promenade, Blackpool), Electric Avenue (Whitegate Drive, Blackpool), Dazamakiz (North Road, Cleveleys), H W Music (Heatley Street, Preston) and online at http://www.rockbeats.co.uk/ . LIMITED AVAILABILITY

Sam Gray is a member of our Lancashire Songwriters Facebook group and we had a chat with him about a songwriting workshop entails.  You can hear what he had to say by clicking on the sound icon below  (this may take longer if you are using a Mac...):

African Caribbean Evening At Blackpool Football Club - 8th October

A.F.R.A (African-Caribbean Friends & Relations)

Live Music from BOB On (Bob Marley tribute band) & Tropical Illusion (Steel Band)

Street Dance Crew Phab n Phunky

Caribbean Food

Tickets £12.00, £15.00 on the door

Contact Phil Henry 07968 401799 or John Rodgers 01253 685023

Sands Blackpool Tea Dances To Continue Throughout 2012

The highly popular Tuesday afternoon tea dances at the Sands Venue on Blackpool Promenade are to continue throughout 2012, venue owner Peter Swann has exclusively revealed to Best Kept Secrets.

Held from 2pm to 4.30pm on Tuesday afternoons, this tea dance is the only one on the whole of the Fylde coast to offer music from a live band and a delicious tea and represents excellent vaklue for money at £9.95 per person. It really is worth coming along just to enjoy the music and the food - even if you don't dance!

The Tuesday Afternoon Tea Dance is just one of the many exciting things that will be happening at the Sands Blackpool Venue during 2012.    

To find out more - plus what is going on in the meantime, check out their website here: http://www.the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/

Book Now For The Dennis Rollins Band at The Sands Venue, Blackpool - 7th October

Multi-award winning British jazz star, Dennis Rollins, brings his unique up-beat, funky dance music with jazz overtones to The Sands Venue. Whilst well known for his work with The Jazz Warriors and Courtney Pine, it’s with his own Badbone & Co – winner of Best Band at the BBC Jazz Awards 2006 – that he’s making headlines.


With its blend of blues to hip-hop, funk to soul, Dennis Rollins’ Badbone & Co should not be missed.

Doors Open 6.30pm

Show Starts between 9pm-9.30pm
Includes delicious 3 course meal
Smart Dress Code Only

Booking link: http://www.the-sands-blackpool.co.uk/artists/55/Dennis-Rollins-BAND-/1474

Special show by ERASURE in Blackpool on 5th November. Tickets on sale TOMORROW

ERASURE are set to play an exclusive “up close and personal” performance at Blackpool North Pier Theatre on Saturday 5th November.

Hot on the trail of their new 5-track CD single When I Start To (Break It All Down) earlier this week the 2011 album and short film Tomorrow’s World; synth-pop superstars Erasure will be heading to Blackpool to perform at the new-look North Pier Theatre on Saturday 5th November in a special one-off exclusive “up close and personal” concert.

Andy Bell and Vince Clarke, aka Erasure, appeared on the music scene in 1985 when they released their first single Who Needs Love Like That. Vince had previously been a founding member of Depeche Mode and then half of the Alf/Vince pop duo Yazoo. On the breakup of Yazoo, Vince placed an advert in the music newspaper Melody Maker for a singer; Andy answered, sang for Vince… and the rest is music history! With over 25 million album sales and more than 40 hit singles, Erasure are here to stay!

Erasure – Live In Concert starts at 7.30pm with support artistes and DJs to get the party started.

The North Pier Theatre was temporarily closed recently to allow essential refurbishment and renovation work to be carried out in the back stage and dressing room areas; the aim, to attract more star names, theatre shows and concerts. Peter Sedgwick, owner of Blackpool North Pier said, “There was a lot of work to be completed to attract modern headline artists and that work had to be carried out during the late summer months before the harsh weather we see during winter sets in. We hope that both local theatregoers and visitors to the resort will support our efforts and come and see some of the concerts and shows we will have lined up for the remainder of this year and next. This is only the beginning!”

Tickets for Erasure – Live In Concert (Saturday 5th November at 7.30pm) are just £25 and will be available from 10am on Monday 3rd October. Hurry and make sure you get yours; this show is going to be a sell-out!

Tickets can be booked in person at the North Pier Box Office (situated at the front of the pier next to the Merrie England Showbar), by calling on 01253 623304. Tickets can also be booked online at http://www.northpierblackpool.co.uk/

Photo by Steve Double.

Review: The 3 Musikateers at Parks Art Deco Cafe, Blackpool

Story to follow


Info: http://www.3muses.co.uk/

http://www.myspace.com/566810728

Ice Hockey: Flyers Mauled By Sharks in Tough Away Test

The Fylde Coast's new ice hockey team the Fylde Flyers were shot down last night away at fancied Scottish outfit Solway Sharks and came home on the wrong end of a 16-0 defeat (6-0, 7-0, 3-0).

The Solway Sharks website - http://www.solwaysharks.co.uk/ - reported as follows:

"On Saturday evening the Sharks met the Fylde Flyers for the very first time and came away with an excellent sixteen-nil English National League victory.

After a sloppy start from both sides Nathan Salem opened the scoring for the Sharks in the fourth minute. The Dumfries side proceeded to find the net on a regular basis for the remainder of the period and Adam Reynolds, Lewis Gold Mark Gallagher, terry Robertson and Salem again all scored to make it six-nil Sharks at the first interval.


In the second period the cavalcade of goals continued and Ross Murray with a hat trick, together with a brace from both Mark Gallagher and Lewis Gold gave the home side a very comfortable thirteen goal margin at the second intermission.

Solway took their foot off the pedal somewhat in the third period but they still ran in a further three goals from Lewis Gold (with his fourth of the night) and Adam Reynolds before captain Mark Gallagher became the second Sharks player to score his fourth goal of the evening. "

Putting things in perspective, Flyers can't be too disheartened by this result. It was only their second ever competitive match while Solway are most people's favourites to win the ELD2N title and it is argued they should have been placed in a higher league in the first place.  They have now won all 6 of their league games - including 20-0 away at Lancashire Raptors - and have only once failed to get into double figures (when they beat Bradford 9-1...) .

Fylde Flyers have an early chance of revenge as they travel back up to Solway next Saturday for another away fixture!

NWCFL Premier Division: AFC Blackpool 1 - Colne 0

AFC Blackpool beat Colne 1-0 in the NWCFL Premier Division thanks to a second half goal from Ben Waddington

For more news and results go to: http://www.nwcfl.co.uk/

CD Release & Autumn Tour Dates: The Overtones

Good Ol' Fashioned Love - Platinum Edition
Release Date: 17th October

Tracklisting:
1. Second Last Chance
2. Sh - Boom
3. Gambling Man
4. Come Back My Love
5. Say What I Feel
6. Carolyn
7. The Longest Time
8. Good Ol' Fashioned Love
9. Blue Moon
10. Have I Told You Lately That I Love You
11. In The Still Of The Night
12. Don't Make Me Over
13. Whoops
14. Goodnight Sweetheart, Goodnight
15. Why Do Fools Fall In Love
16. Only Girl (In The World)
17. Rollin In The Deep
18. Beggin'

CD Description
In addition to the twelve songs from the original album, the Platinum Edition has three brand new songs including the single "Second Last Chance", a vintage-pop song that, like the band themselves, mixes the tradition of American vocal groups with the best of classic, present-day British pop.

With its swagger and bop, this new single fits in harmoniously with classics from their top five album such as "Sh-Boom", "Why Do Fools Fall In Love" and their recent original single, "Gambling Man". Similarly, new original recordings "Say What I Feel" and "Whoops" acknowledge the impact and influence of great vocal groups, such as The Temptations, The Drifters and The Five Satins, whilst reflecting The Overtones’ pop sensibility.

The package is completed by three bonus tracks that the quintet performed when they were the house band on ITV1’s Dancing On Ice; Rihanna’s "Only Girl In The World", Adele’s "Rolling In The Deep" and The Four Seasons’ "Beggin'’ which was given the backing of Frankie Valli.

Official website: http://www.theovertones.tv/
Tour dates and booking links here: http://www.theovertones.tv/live.htm