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Christmas Festivities, Liverpool, 2009
CHRISTMAS
began this month with the appearance of the giant Christmas tree by
Clayton Square and numerous other clues about the City. On
Wednesday, 18 November 2009, an Ice Palace opened in Liverpool 1 and
a parade of Christmas characters ensued. But on the 20th, the
spectacular Liverpool ONE wheel opened to the public. This huge
structure now dominates Chevasse Park. At 6o metres (82 metres from
sea level), it is allegedly the only wheel of its type outside Los
Angeles, in the USA, to be built on top of a building; A massive
undertaking! Its framework of steel weighs a thumping 360 tonnes
and, with the added weight of its foundations, many tonnes on top of
that. Below it is the multi-storey car park. Erected by Mellor
Construction, this wheel is another first for Liverpool. The
construction workers used ingenious tricks to bring the parts
together and the weather was not always co-operative, but it has
been accomplished: the workers deserve praise. From its lofty
heights, comfortably ensconced in sturdy gondolas, passengers are
afforded magnificent views over Merseyside and across to North
Wales, and beyond no doubt if the weather is right.
Each of its 40
gondolas can take, in comfort, 6 passengers and for the very wary
there is a panic button in each, which would allow that gondola to
reach and stay at the bottom for a speedy departure, there probably
won’t be too many of those but it is reassuring. Each ride allows 3
circuits, with a commentary provided. It is a great experience and,
at £6 per head (£5 concessions, £4 for children) not ridiculously
expensive. It was certainly proving popular on its first day.
Opening times are:-
Sunday to Thursday ~ 10 am to 10pm; and Friday and Saturday ~ 10 am
to 11pm - until 31 January 2010.
Advance booking at:-
liverpool-one.com.
Other parts of
Liverpool are also buzzing as Christmas approaches and all around
the City cleverly painted Go Penguins are appearing. We spotted
some, adorned by children’s groups, nestling in Waterstones and
opposite. Other visitors, as befits such creatures, are hanging out
at Salthouse Dock. How many more can you find? Also their fellow,
Patrick the Penguin has been heard pleading the green cause on air
and is set to visit interested groups in the area. In Williamson
Square, there is an Ice Rink to experience, a merry-go–round and
other attractions including the German Market. All told Liverpool is
a good place to go for your festive shopping.
 Tell
us your predictions for 2010...
LET us know
your predictions for 2010 as we will be doing a prediction page very
soon. Email yours today to our news room via:-
news24@southportreporter.com.
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