Latest news with #Paula
Rhyl Journal
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
Rhyl Liberty Players to host fundraiser to ‘save our roof'
The group has been a part of Rhyl's arts and theatre scene for more than 80 years, and is calling on the community for support as it hosts a 'save our roof' fundraiser on Friday, June 13. Its workshop is based on Victoria Road, with the roof predicted to cost about £20,000 to replace. Proceeds from this event will go towards paying for a structural engineer, and any additional costs associated with these first steps. The event, a live music quiz night, will be held at Deutch's Bar on Wellington Road, starting at 7.30pm, and will feature music trivia, raffles, karaoke and classic pub games like 'guess what's in the jar.' Tickets cost £5 per person, payable on arrival, and guests are encouraged to bring a dish of food to share. Paula Devlin, a trustee of the group, said: 'This fundraiser comes at a crucial time for the group. 'Our long-standing workshop, first purchased in 1970 through community fundraising efforts, has suffered considerable storm damage over the past two winters. Damage to Rhyl Liberty Players' workshop (Image: Paula Devlin) 'After patching the roof to keep it watertight, it has now reached the end of its life, and the Liberty Players are aiming to raise the funds needed for a full replacement. 'The building itself is needing a lot of TLC - we even had a wall blow down last winter. We started with one problem, which has now escalated to more problems. 'The workshop is an essential space for the Liberty Players, housing our costumes, props, and tools for building stage sets. 'Without it, our vibrant productions, which have brought joy to generations of local theatregoers, would be under threat.' In addition to the quiz night, the group is gearing up for its next production, The Wind in the Willows, at the Little Theatre in Rhyl, from October 30 to November 1. Ahead of this, the group will be holding a workshop on June 2, followed by open auditions on June 9, both at the ASK Centre on Water Street, starting at 7.30pm. Rehearsals take place every Monday and Thursday at either the ASK Centre or the Little Theatre, and new members are always welcome. Paula added: 'For those who've enjoyed the Liberty Players' performances over the decades, this is a perfect opportunity to give something back — and enjoy a fantastic evening in the process. 'Let's come together to help keep the roof over our heads… literally! "If people would like to make a donation but are unable to attend the event, they can contact us via our website and we will get back to them with how to make donations."
Wales Online
a day ago
- General
- Wales Online
Flooding forced these people from their homes eight months ago - they're only just back in
Flooding forced these people from their homes eight months ago - they're only just back in It was the second major flood to affect the area in the last 14 years The flooding near Liverpool last September (Image: Resident handout ) Victims of a severe flood have finally been able to return home after spending eight months in hotels and temporary lodgings. Emergency services were summoned to Bulwer Street in Bootle on September 30 when water began flooding into homes, needing rescue boats to leave safely. This was the second major flood reported on the street in the past 14 years, leaving many residents effectively homeless as their properties were submerged, destroying items like televisions and sofas, as well as personal keepsakes and family heirlooms. Residents had been living in temporary housing for the past eight months while waiting for their properties to be refurbished and repaired following extensive flood damage. Thankfully, most people have now returned home after enduring a very challenging period. To mark their return and thank a key member of the clean-up crew, Bulwer Street residents held a celebration on Friday afternoon (30 May), where they presented Forshaw Group support manager, Paula Prescott, with flowers and chocolates, reports the Liverpool Echo. The Forshaw Group was the firm responsible for the clean-up operation post-flood and was contracted by United Utilities to refurbish people's homes. As part of this process, Forshaw stationed Paula on site, making herself available daily to address residents' concerns. Paula Prescott was thanked by residents (Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo ) Article continues below Paula said: "My job was just to make sure everyone was ok really. I've dealt with similar situations before so I know what to expect. I know how they feel when it first happens, they're all in shock for days. It's just horrendous and all you can do is just try and support people. "The people here have been absolutely brilliant. I remember when my dad died during all this and the residents bought me flowers then as well and had a big whip round. I couldn't believe it and they're such lovely people." Bulwer Street residents were quick to highlight Paula's vital role during some of their most challenging times. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here . Linda Crilly explained: "It has happened before, so we kind of knew what to expect, but still, it is a huge shock to have to leave your house when all the sewage water is coming in. "Now that more and more people are back home there is a sense of relief but it's tempered with a bit of caution. "What I will say is the response has been a lot better this time, in the sense that we've had people with contact numbers and names that we can get in touch with if there's been any problems. Most people have been very helpful and especially Paula." Linda Crilly and Liz Earnshaw said the response had been much better this time (Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo ) Sarah, 34, described the ordeal of living in hotels with her teenage daughter Izzy and guide dog Ronnie after their home was ravaged by a flood last September, saying the experience was immensely stressful. Sarah said: "We were living in a hotel for several weeks before we actually got a temporary home, and that was stressful enough, because we were moving from hotel to hotel. It's been a rollercoaster to be honest. Article continues below "We are so happy to be back home but when it rains it does make you worry, but throughout it all we've had Paula who has been amazing and done so much including giving me a hug. We'd be lost without her."
The Courier
3 days ago
- General
- The Courier
EXCLUSIVE: Xplore Dundee faces public inquiry over disabled access on buses
Bus operator Xplore Dundee is facing a public inquiry over disabled access on its vehicles. The bus operator will be questioned by the traffic commissioner at a hearing after wheelchair user Paula Cahill, from Dundee, twice claimed she faced issues accessing the Fly service to and from Edinburgh Airport. The 46-year-old volunteer uses an electric wheelchair due to her muscular dystrophy. She alleges that in June 2024, she was left 'covered in glass' after the vehicle's door window shattered on a bus stop while a driver struggled to operate the wheelchair lift at the airport. In a previous incident in August 2023, she says it appeared another driver also did not know how to work the lift on the Fly service. She claims this left her 'suspended' above the ground for around 40 minutes and onlookers eventually had to lift her – and her 72kg chair – from the platform. It is understood Xplore Dundee disputes aspects of Paula's claims. Paula told The Courier: 'When I board the Fly service, I book in advance and let them know as they have to remove seats for my chair. 'On this occasion (in August 2023), when I boarded the bus with my friend, the driver let me on safely. 'There is an access lift and the driver would pull the ramp out, and then the lift goes about 4ft in the air. 'There were no issues and we got to Edinburgh Airport. 'Then the driver joked, 'What time is your flight because I don't know how to work this?' 'I was suspended in the air for about 35 to 40 minutes and by this time, a big crowd was watching what was going on.' Paula says it eventually took three people to reach up and carry her off the platform. She said: 'It wasn't necessarily the driver's fault, I asked him if he would go back to Xplore and ask for more training. 'I went on holiday and called Xplore while I was there to make them aware as I had a return booking. 'The lady in the office said the driver shouldn't be able to drive the bus (without knowing how to work the lift). 'I managed to get home and everything was fine on the return journey.' Paula claims that 10 months later, while returning from a holiday at around 2am in June 2024, a driver again struggled to use the lift, despite her having pre-booked. She says that while the driver battled with the mechanism, the upper access door opened and hit a bus stop – leaving a window smashed. Paula said: 'By this time, other passengers were getting really annoyed and some were getting off the bus and asking if they could help. 'They helped the driver get the ramp up. 'I was covered in glass but I had no other way to get home, I was also sat right next to the smashed bus window. 'My concern was if there was a gust of wind the window could have smashed in my face.' Paula says she felt her concerns were 'dismissed' by Xplore Dundee and wants more training for drivers. After initially going to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, the matter was reported to the Acting Traffic Commissioner for Scotland, Richard Turfitt. A public inquiry relating to Xplore's compliance with public service vehicles accessibility regulations (PSVAR) has now been scheduled for June 17 in Edinburgh. A spokesperson for Xplore Dundee said: 'We are aware of the matter and have been engaging with the relevant authorities regarding the allegations. 'As this issue is currently under consideration by the Traffic Commissioner for Scotland, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.' The traffic commissioner can call a public inquiry for a number of reasons, including if operators have not met licence conditions or if their conduct has come into question. During the hearing, all parties present their cases in detail, including the DVSA. The commissioner can choose to issue penalties such as disqualifying an individual or company from having a licence. The decision will either be given at the time of the inquiry or in writing within 28 days. A DVSA spokesperson said: 'All passengers are entitled to be treated with courtesy and dignity by passenger transport providers. 'This includes drivers providing disabled passengers with reasonable assistance, including helping them on and off the bus by means of a ramp if they use a wheelchair. 'DVSA investigates reports of behaviour to the contrary and will take appropriate enforcement action where required.'
Scottish Sun
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
I'm an interiors expert – here's the 9 living room trends that make your home look outdated, your big light says it all
And scroll down to see what rug and curtain rules you should be following too OUT WITH THE OLD OUT WITH THE OLD I'm an interiors expert – here's the 9 living room trends that make your home look outdated, your big light says it all SPRING is the perfect time to give your living room the refresh it's been waiting for. But it's important to create a timeless space that won't look outdated as soon as new trends sweep in. Advertisement 4 Interiors expert Paula says the minimalist look is out Credit: Getty To help, interior designer Paulina Wojas from Stunning Chairs has revealed the nine trends that make your living room look old-fashioned. From cheesy prints to trend traps, avoiding these decorating mishaps can keep your living room looking stylish for longer. Paulina says: 'When designing our homes, we want to reflect our personalities to create a special and unique space. "When going through a checklist of trends, you're never finding décor that resonates with you. Advertisement "It's time to ditch the outdated looks that quickly become tiresome and dreary and opt for a more personalised and vibrant look.' Here, Paula discusses the nine trends that she wants homeowners to ditch. Slogan-heavy prints 'Framed quotes and words no longer add charm to a room", the interiors pro insists. Walls crammed with 'Cosy Vibes Only' and 'Live Laugh Love' fill space; they don't inject personality or atmosphere. Advertisement She adds: "Slogan-heavy prints have been overused and now feel more like a cliche. "Instead, opt for thoughtful artwork to add an element of luxury to your home. Consider framed prints with a more profound message rather than the obvious words of a print.' I'm a DIY fan and swear by a seven colour room that makes any home feel like it's been designed by a pro Matching furniture sets Paula says another telltale sign that "screams outdated" is having matching furniture sets. She adds: "What once added coordination and symmetry to a space now appears to lack creativity and visual interest." Advertisement Instead, she suggests pairing your sofa with an accent chair of a different material and colour for a more contemporary look. "Adding contrast to your furniture set can create a more inspiring home that reveals more about your character", she insists. Overly matching cushions and throws 'While matching cushions and throws to your sofa or chair can feel cohesive, overdoing it can look staged", Paula continues. "Sticking to obvious colours and fabrics can come across as unimaginative." Advertisement The interiors expert suggests trying contrasting colours and patterns to add depth instead. For example, pairing a blue velvet chair with orange patterned cushions and throws can create a characterful look.' 4 Paula says a lack of colour makes your home look outdated Credit: Getty 4 But you should mix and match colours like above Credit: Getty Advertisement Too minimalist Paula claims minimalism is a "trend that is slowly dying". While it offered a fresh, uncluttered look, she insists it lacked warmth and personality. Instead, bringing in cosy colours to eliminate that 'museum-like' feel is preferred. Paula adds: "This trend also restricted expression in the home, making it too difficult to add a variety of objects and materials.' Advertisement Trend traps 'Trends come and go, and overly leaning into one theme can make a space feel repetitive and quickly outdated", Paula continues. She claims that it can also make incorporating other furniture pieces more challenging, as furnishing with one theme in mind restricts your options. For example, choosing a "farmhouse" aesthetic can limit you to rustic décor, which can feel outdated if not tastefully integrated into the home. She says: "I recommend incorporating a mix of themes into your space to showcase your taste rather than following every trend." Advertisement Short curtains 'There are several reasons why short curtains should be left in the past. Short curtains can make your room seem smaller and disrupt the room's harmony. If your short curtains are patterned, they can also feel overpowering and disproportionate. On the other hand, floor-length curtains create a much more flattering appearance, making your room look bigger and more luxurious.' The big light 'The big ceiling light has become a hot topic among Gen Z, with one viral TikTok video titled 'Why Big Lights Should Be Banned' racking up over 80 million views. Harsh overhead lights can feel too clinical for the living room, and most households are steering away from them. There's a growing desire for softer, layered lighting to create a more welcoming atmosphere. Warm-toned bulbs in table lamps and additions like salt lamps are an easy way to introduce a cosy, ambient glow.' Advertisement 4 The size of the rug can affect the overall look of your living room Credit: Alamy Rugs that don't fit the space 'A common decorating mishap is adding a rug that doesn't match the layout or size of the room. Whether too large or too small, a rug that poorly matches the floor can undermine the overall balance of the room. Too small a rug can make the space feel disjointed and unfinished, while one that's too big can overwhelm the room and clash with your décor. For a well-fitted rug, think about how it can anchor the room's seating area. The front feet of the sofa and armchair should rest on the carpet, creating a more cosy and synchronised feel.' Monochromatic colour schemes While a monochromatic colour scheme like grey on grey can offer an elegant look, Paula insists that we are "shifting towards more vibrant designs". Advertisement She says: "The problem with monochromatic palettes is not enough contrast between light and dark hues, leading to a lack of visual interest. "Instead, try making your home feel more unique using an extensive range of colours and textures. This will bring in a bolder, less predictable look that resonates with you."
The Irish Sun
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
I'm an interiors expert – here's the 9 living room trends that make your home look outdated, your big light says it all
SPRING is the perfect time to give your living room the refresh it's been waiting for. But it's important to create a timeless space that won't look outdated as soon as new trends sweep in. 4 Interiors expert Paula says the minimalist look is out Credit: Getty To help, interior designer Paulina Wojas from From cheesy prints to trend traps, avoiding these decorating mishaps can keep your living room looking stylish for longer. Paulina says: 'When designing our homes, we want to reflect our personalities to create a special and unique space. "When going through a checklist of trends, you're never finding décor that resonates with you. "It's time to ditch the outdated looks that quickly become tiresome and dreary and opt for a more personalised and vibrant look.' Here, Paula discusses the nine trends that she wants homeowners to ditch. Slogan-heavy prints 'Framed quotes and words no longer add charm to a room", the interiors pro insists. Walls crammed with 'Cosy Vibes Only' and 'Live Laugh Love' fill space; they don't inject personality or atmosphere. Most read in Fabulous She adds: "Slogan-heavy prints have been overused and now feel more like a cliche. "Instead, opt for thoughtful artwork to add an element of luxury to your home. Consider framed prints with a more profound message rather than the obvious words of a print.' I'm a DIY fan and swear by a seven colour room that makes any home feel like it's been designed by a pro Matching furniture sets Paula says another telltale sign that "screams outdated" is having matching furniture sets. She adds: "What once added coordination and symmetry to a space now appears to lack creativity and visual interest." Instead, she suggests pairing your sofa with an accent chair of a different material and colour for a more contemporary look. "Adding contrast to your furniture set can create a more inspiring home that reveals more about your character", she insists. Overly matching cushions and throws 'While matching cushions and throws to your sofa or chair can feel cohesive, overdoing it can look staged", Paula continues. "Sticking to obvious colours and fabrics can come across as unimaginative." The interiors expert suggests trying contrasting colours and patterns to add depth instead. For example, pairing a blue velvet chair with orange patterned cushions and throws can create a characterful look.' 4 Paula says a lack of colour makes your home look outdated Credit: Getty 4 But you should mix and match colours like above Credit: Getty Too minimalist Paula claims minimalism is a "trend that is slowly dying". While it offered a fresh, uncluttered look, she insists it lacked warmth and personality. Instead, bringing in cosy colours to eliminate that 'museum-like' feel is preferred. Paula adds: "This trend also restricted expression in the home, making it too difficult to add a variety of objects and materials.' Trend traps 'Trends come and go, and overly leaning into one theme can make a space feel repetitive and quickly outdated", Paula continues. She claims that it can also make incorporating other furniture pieces more challenging, as furnishing with one theme in mind restricts your options. For example, choosing a "farmhouse" aesthetic can limit you to rustic décor, which can feel outdated if not tastefully integrated into the home. She says: "I recommend incorporating a mix of themes into your space to showcase your taste rather than following every trend." Short curtains 'There are several reasons why short curtains should be left in the past. Short curtains can make your room seem smaller and disrupt the room's harmony. If your short curtains are patterned, they can also feel overpowering and disproportionate. On the other hand, floor-length curtains create a much more flattering appearance, making your room look bigger and more luxurious.' The big light 'The big ceiling light has become a hot topic among Gen Z, with one viral There's a growing desire for softer, layered lighting to create a more welcoming atmosphere. Warm-toned bulbs in table lamps and additions like salt lamps are an easy way to introduce a cosy, ambient glow.' 4 The size of the rug can affect the overall look of your living room Credit: Alamy Rugs that don't fit the space 'A common decorating mishap is adding a rug that doesn't match the layout or size of the room. Whether too large or too small, a rug that poorly matches the floor can undermine the overall balance of the room. Too small a rug can make the space feel disjointed and unfinished, while one that's too big can overwhelm the room and clash with your décor. For a well-fitted rug, think about how it can anchor the room's seating area. The front feet of the sofa and armchair should rest on the carpet, creating a more cosy and synchronised feel.' Monochromatic colour schemes While a monochromatic colour scheme like grey on grey can offer an elegant look, Paula insists that we are "shifting towards more vibrant designs". Read more on the Irish Sun She says: "The problem with monochromatic palettes is not enough contrast between light and dark hues, leading to a lack of visual interest. "Instead, try making your home feel more unique using an extensive range of colours and textures. This will bring in a bolder, less predictable look that resonates with you."
