In an age where craftsmanship and individuality are increasingly sought after, UK contemporary metal artist Christopher Henderson is proving that industrial materials can become striking works of fine art. Working from his dedicated studio in Kingston upon Hull, Henderson transforms stainless steel, aluminium and Corten steel into handcrafted sculptures and wall art that combine technical precision with artistic expression.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience in engineering and sheet metal fabrication, Henderson has developed a distinctive artistic style that merges industrial processes with contemporary aesthetics. Each sculpture is carefully formed using specialist fabrication techniques before being finished with his signature etched textures and reflective surfaces, creating pieces that change character as they interact with light throughout the day.

Unlike mass-produced decorative pieces, every artwork is individually handcrafted. Henderson uses techniques including TIG welding, mechanical slip rolling, plasma cutting, polishing and his own proprietary texturing process to create flowing forms that appear almost weightless despite being forged from heavy metals. The result is a collection of sculptures that introduce movement, depth and visual energy into residential, commercial and hospitality environments.

“I’ve spent my career learning how to master industrial materials,” says Christopher Henderson. “Now I use those same skills to create artwork that transforms spaces. I want people to see steel not as something rigid or cold, but as something capable of elegance, movement and emotion.”

Henderson’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in family tradition. Inspired by his uncle, an abstract oil painter, and his father, who built bespoke picture frames and sold fine art, he combines these early influences with decades of engineering expertise.The result is a body of work that bridges heritage craftsmanship with modern design, appealing to collectors, architects, interior designers and commercial clients seeking statement pieces that are both visually impactful and built to last.

His work has already found homes across more than 20 countries and over 800 cities, with hundreds of sales through his online galleries and commissioned projects for private collectors. Henderson is now focused on expanding further into luxury residential developments, hotels, corporate spaces and bespoke large-scale installations, where his sculptures become architectural centrepieces rather than simple decoration.

Each sculpture is designed not only as an artistic statement but as a lasting investment. Built from durable materials and crafted to withstand generations, Henderson’s creations are intended to become heirloom pieces that continue to inspire long into the future.

As appreciation grows for handcrafted contemporary art that combines innovation with traditional craftsmanship, Christopher Henderson is demonstrating that engineering and fine art are not opposing disciplines—they are complementary forces capable of producing extraordinary results.

About Christopher Henderson

Christopher Henderson is a contemporary visual metal artist based in Hull, UK, and the founder of Henderson Metal Art and Modern Elements Art. With more than 25 years of experience in engineering and metal fabrication, he creates bespoke contemporary sculptures, abstract wall art and luxury metal commissions for collectors, interior designers and commercial spaces worldwide. His work combines industrial craftsmanship with artistic innovation, transforming raw metal into timeless contemporary art.

Follow Christopher Henderson

Instagram: https://instagram.com/modern.elements.metal.art
Facebook: https://facebook.com/modern.elements.art

Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/Modern_Elements_Art/
Portfolio: https://www.hendersonmetalart.com/portfolio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/modernelementsart/

Album: Train Leaving Dallas

Release Date: July 31st 2026

Acclaimed American songwriter, novelist and educator Thom Bishop opens an exciting new chapter in his remarkable career with the release of Train Leaving Dallas, a twelve-track album that blends six original songs with six carefully reimagined classics. Produced alongside longtime collaborator Billy Panda, the record reflects decades of songwriting experience while embracing the warmth, storytelling and musical spirit that Bishop has found through his growing connection with Ireland.

More than simply combining original material with cover songs, Train Leaving Dallas was built around a shared philosophy. Bishop and Panda, who have written, performed and recorded together for many years, wanted the original songs to carry the timeless quality of classic recordings while giving the covers a fresh contemporary perspective.

“We wanted the originals to sound like classics and the covers to feel fresh and new,” Bishop explains. “Plus, we just wanted to share some rock ‘n’ roll.”

The album’s six original songs were co-written while Bishop and Panda were both living in Nashville, while the six covers were selected from songs the pair had performed together over many years in clubs, concerts and festivals. The original material was recorded at Panda’s Studio P in Sarasota, Florida, while the cover versions began as intimate live-style performances recorded by Bishop alone with his Gibson L4 archtop guitar at Brian Shey’s home studio in Lyons, Colorado. Panda later expanded the arrangements, producing, engineering and performing the remaining instrumentation, with Executive Producer Grace McKay helping shape the finished record.

The album’s title track, Train Leaving Dallas, has already found success through recordings by vocalists Crystal Sands and Megon McDonough, making Bishop’s own recording a fitting centrepiece of the project.

Leading the release is Here Comes the Night, a fresh interpretation of Van Morrison’s classic. The idea came to Bishop while sitting in Galway one evening as darkness settled across the city.

“I had a guitar in my hands and thought, ‘What would be the perfect song to play in Ireland right now?’ My mind immediately went back to the first time I heard Van Morrison on American radio.”

Selected by Bishop, Panda and McKay as the album’s lead single, the recording captures the wider spirit of Train Leaving Dallas—honouring beloved songs while presenting them in a way that feels both familiar and completely renewed.

For Bishop, the album represents much more than another release. It continues a lifelong artistic journey that has taken him from folk clubs and anti-nuclear rallies to literary acclaim, near tragedy, spiritual awakening and now, a growing creative relationship with Ireland’s thriving music scene.

Originally from the United States and currently based in Colorado, Bishop has been spending increasing amounts of time in Ireland with his wife Michele while their daughter Simone studies at the University of Galway. What began as regular family visits soon became a powerful creative influence.

“In recent trips, I’ve become increasingly inspired by the Irish music scene,” says Bishop. “There’s something deeply emotional and authentic about the music culture there—from the buskers on the streets to the traditional songs echoing through pubs. It feels like a place where songs still matter.”

One moment especially stayed with him: Garth Brooks selling out Dublin’s Croke Park for five consecutive nights.

“The embrace of American music in Ireland struck me,” Bishop explains. “Combined with my own Irish heritage, it made me feel there was a real place there for my work.”

Over the course of his career, Bishop has shared stages with artists including John Prine, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Pete Seeger and David Allan Coe. He also wrote a song for the feature film About Last Night, unexpectedly earning a Number One hit in Malta.

Away from music, Bishop built an equally respected literary career under the pen name Junior Burke. He taught at Naropa University’s renowned Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics, founded by Allen Ginsberg and Anne Waldman, eventually serving as Chair of the department. His novels, including The Cold Last Swim and Buddha Was a Cowboy, received widespread critical praise.

“I’ve written over a thousand songs,” Bishop says. “There are around two hundred I’m still proud to perform.”

One of the defining moments of his songwriting career came during his college years after reluctantly attending a dancehall performance in rural Illinois. Returning home that night, inspiration struck almost instantly, resulting in “Mr. Arthur’s Place”—the first song that truly felt like his own.

“That was the moment I understood songwriting wasn’t something I wanted to do,” he recalls. “It was something I needed to do.”

His work has earned praise from some of the industry’s most respected voices. Billboard described his music as “impressive, intelligent songcraft,” while author Paul Zollo wrote, “Like all great songs, they’re timeless.” The New York Times also recognised him as “a most appealing singer and composer.”

Beyond his artistic achievements, Bishop’s life has been shaped by resilience. A devastating flood destroyed his home in 2013, while a later near-fatal accident led him to reassess his priorities and deepen his commitment to creativity, spirituality and purpose.

Now influenced by meditation and Kriya Yoga, Bishop continues writing, recording and preparing the publication of Branches & Blades, a forthcoming collection of lyrics and reflections spanning his songwriting career.

With Train Leaving Dallas, Thom Bishop offers listeners a record built on authenticity, craftsmanship and enduring songwriting. Led by the evocative Here Comes the Night, the album celebrates both where Bishop has been and the creative future that continues to unfold.

Paul Stone & The Basement Collective prove that authentic music isn’t built overnight—it’s built over a lifetime.

In an industry often obsessed with overnight success, Paul Stone & The Basement Collective offer something refreshingly different: six exceptional musicians creating honest, emotionally driven music rooted in friendship, craftsmanship and real life.

Once described in a feature article by Music Week as a “self-starter,” Paul Stone has spent years quietly building both his career and his music on his own terms. Rather than waiting to be discovered, the Yorkshire-born songwriter built a professional recording studio beneath his family home, assembled a collective of outstanding musicians and gradually earned support from respected industry figures through the strength of the music itself.

Today, while continuing to run successful property development businesses and a local business within his village community, Stone is finally sharing the songs that have been years in the making.

“I never wanted shortcuts,” says Stone. “I wanted to create music that would still mean something years from now. The goal has never been fame—it has always been to build something authentic.”

The project’s sound blends jazz influences with contemporary songwriting, creating music that feels timeless rather than trend-driven. Every recording is built around musicians performing together, capturing genuine chemistry and emotion instead of relying on heavily programmed production.

That commitment to authenticity extends beyond the studio.

A proud Yorkshireman with Irish roots, Stone studied at Leeds College of Music before life took him in another direction. For almost a decade, he stepped away from pursuing music full-time to focus on raising his family and building businesses. Those years, however, gave him something many artists spend a lifetime searching for—perspective.

Now a father of four, his songwriting reflects everyday experiences, resilience, relationships, hope and the importance of human connection.

His latest single, “Brother,” perfectly embodies that philosophy. Inspired by the Stage 4 melanoma diagnosis of one of his closest friends—who has since made a remarkable recovery—the song is a heartfelt reminder that nobody should face life’s toughest moments alone.

Rather than dwelling on tragedy, Brother celebrates friendship, compassion and optimism, carrying the simple but powerful message: “I can be there if you let me.”

The recording itself captures the warmth that defines The Basement Collective, even preserving an unexpected backing vocal from Stone’s young daughter during a microphone check—a spontaneous moment that perfectly reflects the project’s honesty and humanity.

Throughout his career, Stone has quietly built an impressive list of achievements, including support from BBC Radio 2, playlisting on Jazz FM, placement on NBC’s The Blacklist, writing the official Tour de Yorkshire theme, and meeting legendary songwriter Diane Warren in Los Angeles—a moment he credits with making him truly believe he belonged in music.

Yet despite those milestones, he remains grounded.

“I believe in treating people with respect, working hard and keeping your word,” Stone explains. “Someone once told me there are good people, bad people and proper people. I’ve always tried to surround myself with proper people.”

That philosophy sits at the heart of Paul Stone & The Basement Collective.

This isn’t simply another artist releasing singles. It’s a long-term musical project built patiently over many years by someone who understands both the realities of everyday life and the transformative power of music.

Recorded in the studio beneath his family home, surrounded by trusted collaborators and inspired by genuine lived experiences, every song aims to create connection rather than simply attract attention.

With new music already completed and further releases planned, Paul Stone & The Basement Collective are building a catalogue defined not by trends, but by timeless songwriting, exceptional musicianship and emotional honesty.

Sometimes the strongest foundations aren’t built in the spotlight—they’re built quietly, over time, by people who never stop believing in what they’re creating.

Follow Paul Stone
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_basement_collective

Website:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/18HeKUtjmfHXYsERQWbo9v

Publisher: Shea Publishing 

Available Now 

A unique new book written not only by parents—but with their children—offers a powerful conversation about raising families in today’s rapidly changing world. 

Parenting books often promise expert advice and step-by-step solutions, but Who Educates Parents? takes a strikingly different approach. Written by Dr. Žilvinas Svigaris in collaboration with his own family, the book asks a simple yet profound question:  

‘Who teaches parents how to become parents?’ 

Rather than presenting parenting as a one-way process, Who Educates Parents? explores the idea that children educate parents just as much as parents educate children. Drawing on more than two decades of family life, the book combines personal stories, philosophical reflection and honest conversations between parents and children to show how dialogue, trust and shared experiences can strengthen relationships across generations. 

Unlike conventional parenting guides, the family’s children contribute their own memories and perspectives throughout the book—sometimes remembering the very same events differently from their parents. This creates a rare and authentic dialogue that encourages readers to reflect on their own family relationships instead of searching for universal parenting formulas. 

Covering topics including communication, adolescence, education, responsibility, family traditions, learning through music, schools, creativity and preparing children for an uncertain future, Who Educates Parents? argues that the strongest families are built through mutual respect rather than authority alone. 

The book is particularly relevant at a time when many parents face increasing pressures from social media, technology and rapidly changing educational expectations. Instead of focusing on perfection, Dr. Svigaris encourages families to rediscover curiosity, empathy and meaningful conversations that allow every family member to grow. 

“Children do not simply receive education—they actively shape the people their parents become.” 

Dr. Žilvinas Svigaris brings together an unusual combination of academic expertise and lived family experience. With backgrounds in Computer Science, Economics and Philosophy, he has authored and co-authored several academic works while remaining deeply involved in educational initiatives. Who Educates Parents? represents his most personal project to date, inspired by raising three children and reflecting on the lessons learned together as a family. 

Rather than offering rigid rules, Who Educates Parents? invites families, educators and parenting professionals to begin an ongoing conversation about what modern parenting can become when children are treated as participants rather than passive recipients. 

The book will appeal to parents, teachers, grandparents, education professionals, family therapists and anyone interested in creating healthier relationships between generations. 

Sir Graham Wylie Foundation

One of the year’s most acclaimed music documentaries is coming to Tyneside Cinema this September as the venue hosts the North East Gala Premiere of Eddie Cochran: Don’t Forget Me, the first fully authorised documentary celebrating the life and legacy of the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer.

Taking place on Thursday 3 September, the special gala event also celebrates the 10^th anniversary of the Sir Graham Wylie Foundation. Over the past decade, the Foundation has raised millions of pounds to support a wide range of charitable causes, including initiatives such as Tyneside Cinema’s Talent Unit, which nurtures emerging film talent across the North East.

Made possible with support from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority (North East MSA), the evening will feature a gala screening of the documentary followed by an exclusive Q&A with special guests to be announced.

Produced by Oscar and BAFTA-winning Goldfinch Entertainment, Eddie Cochran: Don’t Forget Me tells the remarkable story of one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most influential pioneers through exclusive interviews with Keith Richards, Yungblud, Ronnie Wood, Roger Daltrey, Sting, Alice Cooper, Rod Stewart, Billy Idol, Linda Perry, Peter Frampton, Suzi Quatro and members of Eddie Cochran’s family.

Although his career was cut tragically short at just 21, Cochran’s influence continues to shape popular music. His songs have been covered more than 500 times by artists including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Bruce Springsteen, Joan Jett, Led Zeppelin, T. Rex and many more.

The documentary has already received widespread acclaim following screenings at the Raindance Film Festival, where director Kirsty Bell won Best Director, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

Kirsty Bell, Director:
“It has been the deepest honour to be entrusted by Eddie Cochran’s family to tell his story. His life burned fast and bright, but the ripples of his sound reached across oceans and decades, shaping the very language of rock ‘n’ roll. ‘Don’t Forget Me’ is not just the title of this film. It is Eddie’s own plea, echoed in autograph books and in the lives he touched. My hope is to bring him vividly back into the world’s consciousness, to remind us not only of what we lost, but of the brilliance he gave.

Nic Greenan, Chief Executive, Tyneside Cinema:
“We’re delighted to be bringing the North East Gala Premiere of Eddie Cochran: Don’t Forget Me to Tyneside Cinema. This special event celebrates outstanding filmmaking, music and culture, while also marking the 10th anniversary of the Sir Graham Wylie Foundation and recognising the support that helps create opportunities for emerging film talent.”

Angie Jenkison, CEO of Graham Wylie Foundation said:

“We are honoured that the Northern Premiere of Eddie Cochran: Don’t Forget Me, will be part of Sir Graham Wylie Foundation’s 10^th Anniversary Celebrations. Eddie Cochran was a young man with extraordinary talent and passion and that is exactly what we are funding at Tyneside Cinema, a facility that will support young people with talent and passion to find their purpose.”

Ticket Information

Tickets will go on sale shortly. Standard admission tickets (£17.50) will be available, together with a limited number of VIP Circle tickets including drinks, canapés and an exclusive meet and greet with cast and crew (£45).

Notes to Editors

• Eddie Cochran: Don’t Forget Me – North East Gala Premiere
  • Thursday 3 September 2026
  • Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle upon Tyne
  • Q&A with special guests to be announced.
  • Produced by Goldfinch Entertainment. International distribution by Fremantle.

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

Silent Adventures, the nationwide silent disco tour renowned for its immersive experiences for adults and children in cities across the UK, was founded in 2017. Whilst hugely popular amongst adults, the Liverpool team has introduced Kids Silent Disco Parties — an interactive and neurodiverse-friendly party experience designed to combine music, games, adventure and imagination.

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

The Liverpool team, which has previously partnered with Liverpool ONE, Liverpool BID Company and major festivals, has developed the concept to offer children an exciting alternative to traditional birthday parties. Starting from just £195, the 90-minute experiences are led by trained actors who guide children through a series of games, challenges and adventures, all delivered through wireless headphones.

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

The unique format allows children to fully immerse themselves in the experience while maintaining control over their sensory environment — something that has made the parties particularly popular among neurodiverse children and their families. By wearing headphones, children can focus on the activities without becoming overwhelmed by loud music, crowded spaces or competing noises.

Silent Adventures Liverpool’s Jen Cartwright said: “Parents have praised the concept for creating an inclusive environment where children can feel safe, comfortable and confident while still enjoying the excitement and energy of a group celebration. The immersive nature of the parties means children can step into their own worlds while remaining connected to their friends and the activities around them.”

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

Each session blends music, movement and storytelling with interactive games and adventures, encouraging children to exercise both their bodies and minds. As well as providing plenty of fun, the experiences promote creativity, teamwork, problem-solving and physical activity — the ideal way to get them active and off their devices. It blends tech with getting active in a clever way.

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

With a range of party packages available, families can choose experiences tailored to different age groups and interests, all hosted by professional performers trained to keep children engaged throughout. The benefit for parents is there aren’t loud speakers and lots of noise — so they can easily have a catch up whilst the little ones play in their own world.

For older kids who are looking for a fun birthday experience, the team offers a classic Silent Disco Roaming Adventure. The 60 minute roaming silent disco tour hosted by their award-winning silent disco team takes the party to the streets like the adult events — priced at just £18 per person with a minimum of 10 people.

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

Jen summarised: “I think the success of the concept reflects a massive shift toward technology in modern childhood.  Kids today love tech, but they still need real connection and this ‘tech-savvy’ experience seems to generate the excitement of a new device, whilst actually they’re still just ‘playing’ together and creating those timeless childhood memories that we all remember from kids parties when we were young!“

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

As demand continues to grow, Kids Silent Disco Parties are quickly becoming one of Liverpool’s most talked-about new children’s entertainment experiences — led by a professional children’s entertainer and featuring music activities, adventures and games. The company comes to wherever your party is and the events are neurodiverse-friendly and inclusive.

Silent Adventures’ Kids Silent Disco Parties

CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE ABOUT A PARTY

Follow Silent Adventures Liverpool on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The academy was founded by Charmaine Scott, 42, whose own life-changing journey into sewing inspired her to create a learning space unlike any other. Originally from South London, Charmaine worked as a bus driver while raising her autistic son. After moving to Liverpool and going through a divorce, she found herself struggling with her mental health and realised she had no hobby or creative outlet.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Looking for something new, she enrolled on a beginner’s sewing course. “I was completely hooked,” she said. “I couldn’t believe how calming and mindful sewing was. It was a great source of escapism, allowing me to switch off from everything else and focus on creating something with my hands.”

However, once she had completed the beginner’s course, she found there were very few opportunities to continue developing her skills. “I realised there was a huge gap in the market. People wanted somewhere they could continue learning, building confidence and progressing at their own pace. I also saw the opportunity to create a community, bringing people together through sewing,” she explained.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

With that vision in mind, Charmaine launched Charmingo Sews Academy in 2025, initially hoping to create a small community where people could continue their sewing journey together. Instead, demand exploded and the academy soon outgrew its small premises — moving to Queens Dock Business Centre and welcoming over 100 enthusiasts through the doors every week.

Today, the academy offers an extensive programme of courses, including beginner, improver, intermediate and advanced sewing, dressmaking, garment construction, zip installation and a host of specialist workshops, allowing students to follow a structured learning pathway from complete novice to accomplished maker.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The academy’s hands-on teaching approach means beginners achieve results quickly. Students learn to confidently use a sewing machine during their very first session and, within just a few weeks, many are creating tote bags, aprons, kimonos and even their own clothing. A full five-week beginner’s course costs just £270, with many students choosing to return time and again to continue expanding their skills.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

But while learning to sew is the obvious attraction, Charmaine believes the academy’s success has been driven by something much deeper. “Sewing is incredibly therapeutic,” she said. “People come here for all sorts of reasons, but they leave with so much more than new sewing skills and friendships are made for life.”

Students regularly speak about the positive impact sewing has had on their mental wellbeing, helping reduce anxiety, improve confidence and provide valuable time away from the pressures of everyday life. Many also discover a strong sense of community, forming friendships that continue long after classes finish.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Recognising the importance of social connection, Charmaine runs a Sewing Social session, giving people the opportunity to come together, sew and chat. There’s also a free sewing mental health group, where people can sew and support one another in a welcoming environment designed to promote better mental health.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The practical benefits are equally rewarding, with students making handmade gifts for family and friends, creating home furnishings such as curtains and cushions, repairing clothes and producing bespoke garments they can wear with pride. Students of how well received their handmade creations are — with loved ones really appreciating a hand-made gift rather than simply a purchase.

The academy’s success has also created employment opportunities. Several students who first joined as beginners have progressed through the courses before returning as tutors themselves, helping inspire the next generation of sewists while building careers within the creative industry.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Charmaine summarised: “What began as a personal journey to improve my own wellbeing has become a thriving business that has helped hundreds of people discover confidence, creativity and connection. It’s incredible how it’s grown! Running the academy has not only transformed the lives of my students but my own too, improving my mental health and giving me the flexibility to spend more quality time with my son.”

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Charmingo Sews Academy has become the UK’s largest independent sewing academy and is showing no signs of slowing down. As Charmaine’s concept continues to grow, it is proving that sewing is about far more than fabric and thread — it is creating confidence, community and opportunities, one stitch at a time.

Charmingo Sews Academy / Suite 218-219, Queens Dock Business Centre, Norfolk Street, Liverpool, L1 0BG / 0151 440 3398

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Follow Charmingo Sews Academy on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Structured around an entire racing season, each chapter centres on a different meeting on the circuit, allowing readers to experience every triumph, setback and hard-fought battle alongside Arthur. From intense wheel-to-wheel action to the politics and rivalries that exist beyond the chequered flag, Backmarker delivers a high-tempo story packed with drama and authenticity.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

The novel evokes the spirit of iconic racing films such as Days of Thunder and Gran Turismo, combining fierce competition with compelling personal stories and an underdog determined to prove he belongs on the grid. What truly sets it apart, however, is Jordan’s meticulous research.

Determined to portray the sport as accurately as possible, the author immersed himself in the UK Mazda MX-5 racing scene, attending race meetings throughout the country and working closely with drivers. The result is an authentic and detailed portrayal of grassroots motorsport that captures not only the adrenaline of racing but also the camaraderie, determination and politics that define life in the paddock.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Kieran explains: “I am an established playwright and screenwriter and originally conceived Backmarker as a television series. However, I soon realised the story was perfectly suited to the page, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Arthur Mangold’s journey across an unforgettable racing season. The research for the novel has been gruelling but thoroughly enjoyable.”

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

After securing a publishing deal with Troubador Publishing, Kieran officially launched the novel last month at an event in Ormskirk. Since then, he has continued promoting the book at Mazda MX-5 race meetings, where he has met fans and signed copies trackside. The response has been emphatic and the novel has been placed with Waterstones and other top book retailers.

Kieran said: “The response has been overwhelmingly positive and the novel has received praise from both dedicated motorsport followers and readers with little prior knowledge of racing. I think the blend of gripping storytelling, authentic detail and memorable characters has helped it appeal well beyond the racing community. I’m delighted at the response and I’m already thinking about a sequel.”

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

More than just a sports novel, Backmarker offers readers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain’s most popular grassroots racing championships. Every chapter places them in the driver’s seat as Arthur battles rivals, overcomes setbacks and chases his dream of success — taking the reader on an awe-inspiring real-time journey through the season.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

For anyone who enjoys compelling underdog stories, edge-of-your-seat competition and richly researched fiction, Backmarker is a debut that deserves a place on the starting grid of this year’s must-read books. And in terms of young authors to keep your eye on, Kieran Jordan certainly deserves a place on the podium.

Kieran Jordan / Backmarker

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Follow Kieran Jordan on INSTAGRAM

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

The heart-warming play follows the story of Danny Rogers, a struggling country music-obsessed songwriter who is inspired by a secret from the past to follow in the footsteps of his beloved grandfather to Nashville, USA. He dreams of his music being discovered at last but the trip proves to be a very different journey of discovery and changes his life in a way he never expected.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Under The Mersey Moon is an uplifting story about love, home and family that will have you laughing one minute and holding back tears the next. A must for lovers of country music and theatre, its highly anticipated return has been well received — with tickets already flying out in advance.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Radio legend Billy Butler and actress wife Lesley are set to reprise their roles in the hit show, with Samuel Heller continuing to win audiences hearts as lovable loser Danny. The production is created by well known Merseyside songwriters Jimmy Rae and Pete Davies and directed by Brian McCann. It features 13 original songs which are performed by a live, five-piece band and an all-local cast of 12.

Two well-known and experienced Merseyside actors are also joining the cast for this run of shows; Roxanne Male steps into the roles of Louise, Danny’s long-suffering girlfriend, whilst Lee Clotworthy is playing Mike, Danny’s former bandmate. Mike has since done rather well for himself since his band days and thinks it’s high time Danny ‘grew up’ too and abandoned his musical dreams.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

The play received huge acclaim when it was staged at the Floral Pavilion — with critics calling it “a fantastic production that truly had everything — emotion, drama, humour, great music and twists” and music broadcaster and writer Spencer Leigh describing the musical as having “the potential to be another Twopence to Cross the Mersey.”

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

A Liverpool Noise critic said: “Whether you’re a lifelong fan of musical theatre or new to the genre, Under the Mersey Moon promises an evening of heartfelt performances, memorable songs, and a celebration of everything that makes Liverpool’s cultural scene so special. It’s a show that stays with you long after the curtain falls, a true testament to the magic that happens when local talent and authentic storytelling come together under the Mersey moon.”

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Co-writer/producer Jimmy Rae said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with how this production is gathering momentum. We started with two sell-out shows in The Floral Pavilion’s Blue Lounge before moving to the bigger main theatre and we’re excited now to be bringing it to Liverpool, in the heart of the city it celebrates. People have loved the show that much they’ve returned to see it again so we’re looking forward to welcoming both existing audience members and new ones.”

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Under The Mersey Moon country musical comes to The Epstein Theatre in Liverpool from 11th-13th November 2026, after sell-out shows at The Floral Pavilion. The production is created by well-known Merseyside songwriters Jimmy Rae and Pete Davies and features 13 original songs which are performed by a live, five-piece band and cast of 12.

Under The Mersey Moon / 11th-13th Nov 2026 / The Epstein Theatre, Hanover Street, Liverpool / 0151 312 8735

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Operating in a sector that is critical to the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy, Evolution Power has built a strong portfolio of utility scale solar PV including co-located battery energy storage (BESS) projects. The Novuna Business Finance facility enables Evolution Power to retain ownership of its existing 200MW solar and 100MW BESS consented projects, while supporting the development of its 3GW solar and BESS NSIP portfolio projects through key milestones to maximise future value.

The transaction demonstrates Novuna’s flexible approach to lending, working closely with Evolution Power to create a facility that aligns with the company’s requirements and growth strategy. The funding unlocks capital from the existing portfolio, providing additional financial flexibility while enabling the business to continue advancing its pipeline of renewable energy projects.

Philippe Bazin, Head of Sustainable Energy and Green Infrastructure at Novuna Business Finance, commented: “Evolution Power has built an impressive portfolio and has a clear strategy for creating long-term value from its assets. By taking the time to understand the business and its ambitions, we were able to provide a funding solution tailored to its needs. We’re delighted to be partnering with the team and supporting the next stage of its growth as it continues to develop projects that will play an important role in the UK’s energy transition.”

Conor McNally, Director at Evolution Power, commented: “The Novuna Business Finance facility enables Evolution Power to maximise the value of its existing 300MW consented portfolio and provides lower cost development funding for its 3GW NSIP portfolio, with the first of these projects expected to be publicly launched later this year. We look forward to building the relationship with the Novuna team and thank them for their collaborative and efficient approach throughout the funding process”.