Crime, money and the weather spur record migration

RISING crime, increasing living costs and unpredictable weather are driving record number of Brits abroad, according to experts.  Figures released by the Office for National Statistics this week show long-term migration from the UK reached 385,000 in the year to July 2006. This is the highest figure since records began in 1991.

Dani Maxton, managing director of overseas property developer Morpheus Investments, comments:- "People are no longer afraid to take the plunge and move abroad. They used to be deterred by the cost and hassle of finding a property in the sun and scared to leave family behind.  Low cost airfares, greater availability of flight routes, a booming UK housing market and a growing number of professional, UK-based overseas property developers and agents, means that this is no longer the case. 

People are often better-off financially when they move abroad. They're able to free up considerable amounts of equity, appreciate lower taxes, general costs of living and better lifestyles. Southern Cyprus for example, experiences over 340 days of sunshine every year and in recent years its quality of life has been voted higher than in the UK and one of the highest in Europe.  More and more people are starting to realise that they can afford a bigger property with more features, when compared with their UK home, and if they choose the right location, can live in places with low crime rates and taxes, and great weather and amenities.

It's no surprise that a growing number of people we're selling properties to are looking for a permanent home in the sun and not just a holiday home."

SEAFOOD (AND EAT IT) ACROSS THE MERSEY

ONE of the most famous attractions of Liverpool is set to get involved in the biggest food festival to hit the city.  On Tuesday September 4, delicious local seafood specialties will be served on the famous Mersey Ferry between the hours of 4.15pm-6.25pm on the Direct Commuter Service with Paul Askew, Executive Chef at the renowned London Carriage Works handing out the tasty offerings.

Those commuters making the crossing will be treated to a free samples of Southport Potted Shrimps, by local food producer Brown Shrimps and other seafood delights will supplied by Fish Fanatics. The locally caught delicacies will retain the unique flavour of the west coast.

Neil Scales, Chief Executive and Director General of Merseytravel, which owns and operates the Mersey Ferries, said:- “We are looking forward to getting involved in this unique event. Our ferry passengers are some of the most loyal there are and they deserve a treat. We hope they enjoy the food and we are pleased to be backing this campaign and supporting local food producers.”

Catherine Beaumont of North West Fine Food adds:-”We just had to get the Mersey Ferries involved within the two week festival and what better food than seafood to serve up while on the crossing.”

The Liverpool Food Lovers Festival takes place from 3 September 2007 to 16 of September 2007 and features a wide range of food related events.