Latest news with #Liverpool-based
Leader Live
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Llanfest 2025 in Llangollen: Here's who is on the line up
Taking place at the Llangollen Pavilion on Sunday, June 8, from 2pm to 10.30pm, the event promises a day of live music, family-friendly activities, and a festival atmosphere. The 2025 lineup features a mix of indie, rock, and pop music, with headliners and emerging talent alike. Among the first to perform will be Llangollen's own four-piece, Kuff Dam. The band is set to bring their indie rock sound, influenced by The Verve, Muse, The Amazons, and Royal Blood. Luke from Kuff Dam said: "We are absolutely buzzing to be playing Llanfest this year. "As local lads, we've been wanting to get on the bill for a few years now, so getting the opportunity to open up the show in our hometown is proper mint. "We've been busy gigging recently and are really looking forward to adding Llanfest to our dates." Other acts include The Cazadors, a five-piece rock, funk, and soul band also from Llangollen, and Seprona, a five-piece rock band from Liverpool. Manchester's indie group, Muddy Elephant, will also perform, as will seven-piece psychedelic revivalists, Galore. Monstaball, known for their high-energy performances, will deliver exhilarating party vibes, while Chilled, an indie rock band formed in 1998, will represent Corwen. Amnesia, a Liverpool-based club classics dance band, will perform euphoric dance tracks live. Kids are set to have a great day out too, as the event is offering free entry for accompanied children. Keith Potts from the Llangollen Pavilion said: "Llanfest 2025 is a true celebration of music, community, and culture, bringing together festival-goers of all ages. "Best of all, accompanied children can attend for free, making it a perfect day out for families. "Alongside live music, people can enjoy a range of food and drink stalls, entertainment, and the unique atmosphere of the Llangollen Pavilion."
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Bengaluru's entrepreneurial spirit drew us to India: V-C Tim Jones on Liverpool university's independent campus
The University of Liverpool, a globally ranked UK institution, is set to open its first independent campus in India by September 2026 in Bengaluru, marking a significant milestone as the second major UK university after Southampton to establish a presence in the country. With a strong focus on forging industry partnerships to enhance student employability, the campus aims to deliver world-class education tailored to the nation's dynamic job market, replicating the success of its acclaimed China venture. Speaking to The Indian Express, Professor Tim Jones, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Liverpool, emphasised that 'Bengaluru's entrepreneurial spirit' drew the institution to set up a campus in India. The decision to choose Bengaluru, he said, was also driven by 'the university's long-standing collaborations in the city, including a 20-year partnership with Nimhans (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) on infectious disease research' which played a crucial role in forming World Health Organization's (WHO) vaccine guidelines for Japanese encephalitis, saving an estimated 2 lakh lives. Collaborations with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Unilever further solidified the city's appeal as a hub for innovation and research. 'Bengaluru's entrepreneurial spirit and demand for higher education make it the perfect fit,' Jones noted. He also highlighted the university's commitment to building robust ties with local and multinational companies to ensure graduates are job-ready. 'We are signing MoUs with companies like Wipro and Axis Bank to provide placements, work experience, and industry-driven curriculum input,' Jones said. 'This model, successful in Liverpool with partners like Unilever, will be adapted to Bengaluru's vibrant, high-tech ecosystem.' Welcoming the varsity's entry into Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, 'Karnataka has always been at the forefront of education and innovation. The University of Liverpool's decision to set up its first foreign campus in Bengaluru reinforces our status as a global knowledge destination. We welcome them wholeheartedly and are committed to extending all support to make this venture a grand success.' The Bengaluru campus will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in high-demand fields such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Business Management, Accounting & Finance, Biomedical Sciences, and Games Design. These programmes will mirror the curriculum and quality of Liverpool's UK campus, ensuring global recognition of degrees. The campus, approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in just three to four months following an application in December 2024, will start with a few hundred students and aims to grow to 5,000 in five years and 10,000 in ten years. A blended faculty model will prioritise local hires, with a small proportion of Liverpool-based staff ensuring academic consistency. A University of Liverpool Provost will oversee operations and maintain global standards. Addressing affordability concerns, Jones acknowledged India's diverse economic landscape. 'We are working on a fee structure sensitive to the local context, with details and scholarship information to be announced soon,' he said. Sustainability will also be embedded across the curriculum, particularly in fields like AI, where energy consumption is a growing concern. Unlike its joint-venture campus in Suzhou, China, which hosts 27,000 students, the Bengaluru campus will be a fully independent Liverpool entity, supported by Indian operational partners. While the exact location is yet to be finalised, an announcement is expected soon. The university dismissed any plans for additional overseas campuses. Chandru Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner in Bengaluru, said: 'The UK and India have made a commitment to refresh and deepen our partnership to deliver even more for both countries. Our expanded partnership will deliver iconic, forward-looking collaborations in diverse areas such as AI and semiconductors, higher education campuses, and green energy initiatives. The announcement of Liverpool University opening a campus in Bengaluru is both evidence and a celebration of the UK-India partnership.' He added, 'The Technology Security Initiative, announced in July 2024, will deliver crucial collaboration on telecoms innovation and unlock investment across emerging technologies. Furthermore, the UK-India FTA announced recently delivers on the UK government's core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people's pockets.'
Daily Mirror
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Primark shoppers love 'gorgeous' £8 T-shirt that's 'so flattering'
Primark shoppers are racing to stores to find the 'gorgeous' new T-shirts that look 'so flattering' Primark shoppers are racing to stores for a "gorgeous" new £8 top. As seen in a viral TikTok post shared by @chris_fairley, Primark is selling "cinch waist" T-shirts that gather at the waist and look "so flattering." There are various colours available, including a pink option and a chocolate brown shade. The Liverpool-based creator wrote: "How nice are these new cinch waist T-shirts?" In the few days since it was posted, Chris's video has gained over 900,000 views. It's also received hundreds of comments from shoppers keen to get their hands on the new products. Someone commented: "I need these so bad." A different fan wrote: "Omggggg." Tagging a friend to suggest a shopping trip, a keen shopper said: "Primark tomorrow." Meanwhile, someone replied: "Can someone pick them both up for me and sell them on Vinted? These are a need." A shopper shared: "For anyone wondering, I went to the Oxford street primark today and they only had the pink one I was unable to find the brown one but hopefully they come in soon!" A different fan added: "Just bought the brown one and girls I can confirm they look gorgggg on omg!! So flattering. Hoping they drop more colours." Chris replied: "Ivory has landed on the order be in store in next few days." The shopper responded: "Omg I need! Hope there's a black too." Similarly, another customer said: "I'll want a black and white." Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the T-shirts are available on Primark's website at this time. Shoppers can locate their nearest Primark store here. However, the retailer does offer a selection of T-shirts on its website, with many available for click and collect. For instance, shoppers looking for a fitted style might like the £5 Second Skin T-Shirt, which is described as "a slim-fitting T-shirt with a second-skin style design." The product description says: " Upgrade your basics with this essential second skin T-shirt. Designed for a smooth, figure-hugging fit, this ultra-soft tee features a classic round neckline and short sleeves—perfect for layering or wearing solo. "The stretchy, lightweight fabric moves with you, making it a comfy go-to for everyday wear. Whether you pair it with jeans, skirts, or under a blazer, it's the ultimate wardrobe staple. Simple, stylish, and oh-so-versatile—you'll want one in every colour!" It's available in sizes XXS to XL in six different colours, though availability may vary. Meanwhile, athleisure fans might like the £9 Buttery Soft Gym T-Shirt that's described as a "buttery soft crew neck T-shirt." The description says: "Whether your exercise of choice is a classic jog or lifting weights and working the machines, our short sleeve gym T-shirt is sure to be an appropriate uniform for active endeavours. "Part of our performance range, this ecru tee is cut from buttery soft stretch fabric to ensure the slim fit remains comfortable while offering optimal flexibility. "It showcases a crew neckline, short sleeves and a straight hem, so it'll pair easily with performance leggings and gym shorts alike for a complete athletic outfit." It's available in sizes XXS to XXL in eight different colours, though availability may vary.
Daily Mirror
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'Band started falling apart,' admits The Zutons star after Amy Winehouse cover
EXCLUSIVE: The Zutons had already been long established before Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson covered their hit Valerie, but lead singer Dave McCabe admits this was the start of their downfall The Zutons frontman, Dave McCabe has revealed the band started "falling apart" after Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson's cover of their hit, Valerie. The Liverpool-based band formed in 2002 and went on to achieve chart success following their debut album, Who Killed... The Zutons in 2004. But their second record, Tired of Hanging Around, spawned hits including Why Won't You Give Me Your Love? and the classic track, Valerie, which saw them land two spots inside the official UK Top Ten. But just one year after the release of Valerie, the course of The Zutons changed forever. Legendary DJ, producer and songwriter Mark Ronson teamed up with his pal Amy Winehouse, who was a fan of the track, to re-record a cover version of the song. However, the record almost never took off as Mark was initially hesitant as to whether it would work for Amy. "I loved it," he said. The cover went on to chart at Number Two and spent 19 weeks in the Top 20. Now, in an exclusive interview with the Mirror, Dave has opened up about his reaction to the cover. "It was really good, but I didn't realise at the time, you don't sit there and think 'This is going to be huge', at the time, we'd already had a huge hit with it, we'd sold over 200,000 singles which is a lot. "But when that [cover] started getting traction and going big, the band kind of started falling apart – and it wasn't because of that. You'd look at that and be like 'God, you've got to write another one of these,' you can't force anything like that. I think it all happened at a cushy moment because we were falling out as a group, and then that went big and it kind of buried us. "I think being on a major label, the pressure does get to you, you don't realise it." Reflecting on the cover, he said it was "good" but had no idea it would take off so quickly. "I didn't realise, no one did, that she was going to die. When she did, it was kind of immortalised even more. "I don't even see it, is it our song anymore? It's this other thing now." Amy tragically died just four years after the release of Valerie, aged 27. It was confirmed that the singer who was found unresponsive at her home in Camden, north London, died from alcohol poisoning. Dave recalled walking past pubs and hearing women singing the track on karaoke. "It makes me feel warm and smile, because I wrote that," he proudly explained. He added: "It's just taken a life of it's own and I'm forever grateful. It's an honour that someone discovered it and did a really good job on it. Our version is pretty f***ing good but the fact she took it even further speaks volumes about her talent." Last year, the band released their first studio album, The Big Decider, in 16 years. "We had to do a lot more work," he said of the record, having released it independently away from a major label. He also revealed that the release was very different to previous records as artists now tour the record before its release. "It felt rushed out," he said but adding: "When I look at everyone else in a band doing that, you gig to promote your album, sell it on the spot when the tour finishes and maybe later on in the year, you go on tour. The tours and gigs later on in the year were a bit more rewarding in terms of new music." Despite this, he admits releasing the record and hitting the road was "fun". "It's not just plugging in, playing songs, you have to become this persona or sell yourself, and I find that difficult," he commented. But he admits the release was "stressful" at some points, as those around the band had to work harder. "It's nice to have the power to do what you want," he said of releasing music independently. However, while it was "nice" to have a major label plugging cash into previous albums and marketing campaigns, which he missed, working independently showed a more "realistic ballpark" for the band. The record was produced by none other than Nile Rodgers, Liam Broudie and former drummer Sean Payne and landed at Number Seven on the Official UK Charts, and topped the UK Independent Albums Chart. "There were lots of ups to all of it," Dave said, adding: "I'm glad it happened and I'm glad we're back out there. "I find it's a lot faster now. If you put a song out that isn't the next Valerie, I think it's ok. People listen to your songs as they are. The pressure is off in that sense. The people who come to your gigs are loyal fans because we didn't put anything out for 15 years. I feel lucky and grateful that we get to do these types of things, and we're still functioning as a band." This weekend, the band will perform alongside Richard Ashcroft, who has also released his first single since 2018, Lover, at SMR 25 at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage. "I'm excited to be playing with Richard Ashcroft," Dave gushed. He added: "You just forget how many tunes he's got. The first band I ever went to see was the Smashing Pumpkins in 1993, I went with my mates, I was 11. The first band I saw were The Verve supporting them. "It's taken me 32 years to finally get on the same stage but here I am and it's exciting. They came out in glittery tops with long hair – A Storm in Heaven, that's the album they were playing. I've got fond memories. When he played all his songs at his show, you don't realise, they're all solid. There's a massive nostalgia thing going on." The band haven't performed together for some time and Dave admits he hopes there's nerves amongst them. "It's very rare that there isn't nerves, excitement is good," he said, adding: "Even anxiety can be good before you go on. It's a release when you go on because you're finally doing it. "I think when you're going on and you're yawning, it's never a good sign. Naturally, that's what can happen but it hasn't happened to me for quite a long time. We always come off stage and think, 'Why were we yawning before that?' Nerves are essentially, I think, you've got to use them to your advantage." Dave revealed that nerves provide a different energy for a show. But he admits that artists can find themselves being "selfish" due to crowds watching them rather than heading to the bar. Joining the line-up are the likes of Sigala, Bob Vylan and The Futureheads. SMR 25 kicks off today at The Lamex Stadium, Stevenage at 3pm and continues through til Sunday. Tickets are available on Eventbrite and See Tickets.
Metro
20-05-2025
- Metro
The secret £30 spa hidden under a UK warehouse
A 'hidden' UK spa is offering relaxation on a budget. For just £30, you can enjoy some TLC in a subterranean paradise, located inside an old Victorian warehouse. Tucked away in the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool, Maya Blue Wellness has steam rooms, thermal pools, saunas and even foot baths. And, with low cave-like rooms and low-lighting, you're a world away from the busy city streets. The Titanic hotel itself used to be the North Warehouse, built back in 1846. After the 14-storey building was vacated, it was left derelict for 30 years – until the hotel and spa opened in 2014. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Entry for non-residents costs just £30 per person, and just £20 for overnight guests. But, you'll need to be organised. The spa is only open to the public between Tuesday and Thursday. It's subject to availability and by appointment, so you'll need to get in there sharpish. If you're already staying at the hotel, there's more availability, with sessions between 8am and 10am, and 6pm and 8pm. And it's quickly becoming a favourite. TripAdvisor user Sasha Marie went for a birthday spa treatment and said she was 'blown away' by the service. 'The spa is underground which makes the décor really stand out, and gives a great vibe,' she wrote. 'The pools were lovely, [and were] heated with jets in them.' Meanwhile, Birmingham-based Felicity described her experience as 'sublime,' noting that she and her partner both had a facial and massage and it 'completely exceeded' their expectations. 'I can't recommend this place enough if you want to unwind, treat yourself and feel amazing afterwards. Absolutely gorgeous spa day,' she added. For Amber C, the experience was 'great value for money,' having enjoyed an 'amazing neck, shoulder and back massage.' And Leanne R had a great time, saying 'the staff are all so welcoming, the facilities are amazing and the general atmosphere is just so relaxing.' Elsewhere in the world of Liverpool-based spa activities, the recently opened Wyld Sauna offers an offer hot sauna and cold plunge right next to the historic docks. Off-peak sessions cost as little as £7, while others cost up to £12.50 – which is still an absolute steal. And if you needed an excuse to book a spa trip, using a sauna has health benefits in abundance. More Trending They support kidney function by flushing out toxins, metals and waste, which can cause acne and breakouts. They can also keep skin more moisturised, and increase the body's natural collagen production and stimulation. This article was originally published on January 29, 2025. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: 'Full of life' capital city to get new UK flights for just £87 MORE: I spent 48 hours in Europe's most affordable city — 'nobody knows where it is' MORE: Everything I ate in a weekend of pintxos hopping in San Sebastián
