Two strangers fall into conversation on a crowded train, with deadly consequences...
Sweet little old ladies are not always quite what they seem. The trunk in Doris's attic holds secrets. Can she keep them safe?
One of the most popular independent rock music fanzines of the 1990s, "Smokin' Dragon" was an information-packed gem of British subculture. Enjoy a trip down Memory Lane as we look again at this diverse and lively DIY publication. How many of these bands can you recall?
Writer and broadcaster Andrew Marr explores creativity, self-expression and how "good art" is defined by artists, art lovers and the mega-wealthy business of art investing.
Perfect for St Patrick's Day parties or any Irish-themed event, this light-hearted quiz offers a mixture of general knowledge questions all about Ireland.
Time on your hands but money's short? Read on for bright ideas of how to fill your days with fun yet economical activities.
"Smokin' Dragon" was one of the most popular independent fanzines of the 1990s. Here we look again at issues eight, nine and ten, remembering the rock bands that crammed its lively pages.
A gem of British subculture, "Smokin' Dragon" was one of the most well-known independent music zines of the 1990s. Interviews with emerging bands, demo reviews, art, poetry and prose were the staple features of this lively and diverse DIY publication.
A poetic biography from Suede's singer/songwriter Brett Anderson, which describes his working class upbringing and the driving ambition which carried him to fame.
A photographic documentary of social, architectural and economic changes in rural Britain from Victorian era to the 1960s.
Her ballerina's career is cruelly ended, but dancing isn't the only ghost to haunt young Sylvie. Who does the spectral Colonel wait for? Why does a ghostly voice cry out in the woods? And exactly why do local townsfolk seem so eager for Sylvie to date Shawn Maddox?
Discover the lives and works of 50 of the most influential women artists from the 1500's to the present day.
Is free will an illusion? Are our choices truly our own or the product of external influences? Discover how to develop greater self-awareness and control.
Free will and destiny collide in this imaginative fantasy tale, which introduces a whole new species of androgynous beings called Wraeththu.
Everything is energy—including you. So what makes you unique?
"The Story of Painting" describes 800 years of Western art. The author, Sister Wendy Beckett, was a nun who also presented two BBC TV series on art.
One of the most famous names in art history, Leonardo da Vinci remains an enigmatic figure. Many of his works have not survived or were uncompleted, yet he continues to be viewed as having possessed an amazing mind. This biography seeks to uncover the facts behind the myths.
A lavish exploration of British fantasy illustration from 1890 to 1930, featuring Beardsley, Rackham, Dulac and Alastair, plus many of their contemporaries.
A lovely book which presents 136 full-colour paintings from a wide range of marine artists who explore the coast, the sea and sailing in their individual styles using various media.
Macbeth retold from a young witch's point of view. A tale of vengeance, loyalty and war.
How much do you really know about the world around you? Challenge yourself or others with this lively quiz all about the natural environment.
Curiosity leads two teenagers through a dangerous web of deception after they witness a bizarre ritual in a Barcelona graveyard. What is the meaning of the mysterious emblem of a black butterfly? And who is the terrifying woman in black?
A compelling tale of conflict set in Mississippi in 1946, when city-born Laura clashes with the crushing poverty and ingrained racism unearthed by her husband's dream of rural farming life.
"Essential Pre-Raphaelites" is a lavishly illustrated introduction to a diverse range of paintings from famous and lesser-known pre-Raphaelite artists.
This book contains a collection of useful advice from professional contemporary artists, offering insight into life after art school and how to navigate the fickle and complex art world.
When Emily discovers she's a mermaid, a whole new underwater world opens up - a world of adventure, discovery, secrets and danger. Can Emily rescue her father, calm a raging sea monster and uncover the mystery of a magical ring?
An insightful study of JMW Turner's diverse art, from his early, precise architectural drawings through to the inspirational, semi-abstract paintings of light of his later years.
Love and malice weave a gripping tale of sibling rivalry set in 18th century Venice. How far will Minguillo go to ensure his inheritance? And how much can Marcella survive?
When Edith falls for a handsome aristocrat, she begins married life in his crumbling family mansion. Will Edith's fortune restore the house and Thomas's ailing business? Only too late does she recall the terrifying warning told by her mother's grim ghost.
A biography of Rembrandt and an exploration of his enduring artistic influence, placed within the context of the politics, religion and history of 17th century Netherlands.
When oxygen costs money, the divide between the wealthy and the poor is brutal. Rebel and you'll be ejected from the dome which covers the city. Outside the dome, the world is airless and lifeless. Or is it?
"Monet by Himself" contains an intriguing collection of private letters from one of the world's most beloved artists, Claude Monet, and features over 200 of his French Impressionist paintings.
A richly illustrated celebration of the paintings, drawings, stained glass and tapestries created by one of the world's best-loved artists.
Two stories intertwine in this complex tale about Daphne du Maurier, Bramwell Brontë, and a young graduate's struggles with her thesis and difficult marriage.
A lavishly illustrated book which presents a large selection of JMW Turner's sketches in pencil and watercolour.
A lavishly illustrated 'how to' book for watercolour painting aimed at beginners and the more experienced artist.
Can one small girl prevent the outbreak of war between opposing tribes? All she has is her sailing boat and the wisdom of her pet cat to guide her through a flooded world populated by bloodthirsty warriors. Oh, and she also has one of the world's last AI computers...
The gentle story of a young girl's journey from crushing poverty and cruelty to the promise of riches. Will Ellen take the easy route, or will she make other choices?
Save money by buying only what you really need to get started as a watercolour artist. Bewildered by the vast array of art products for sale? This article keeps your new hobby simple and affordable.
Flex your brain power with this challenging set of lively questions perfect for pub, school or party quizzes. Topics are wide ranging, and sure to test even the sharpest of memories!
Test your brain with this diverse set of challenging questions that are suitable for all social occasions or pub competitions.
An illustrated behind-the-scenes look at Adele Cosgrove-Bray's work as an artist.
A funny poem about Dashing Dan, the spectral highwayman, who didn't really do much harm but now he'll haunt you with his charm...!
A tipsy young gnome meets the lady of his dreams in this humorous poem about romance and misplaced ambition.
There are many fun, meaningful and engaging activities which people living with dementia can enjoy. Support quality of life through fun and purposeful activity with these practical suggestions.
Keep hands warm and restless fingers engaged with a twiddlemuff! Designed for people with advanced dementia, twiddlemuffs are easy to make, even if you're not great at knitting or crochet.
Looking for a fun craft project for Hallowe'en? Try these simple paper witches! Easy to do, economical and innoffensive - great for kids (of all ages!)
Help save endangered species by making a beautiful backyard frog pond! This easy-to-follow guide will show you how to build a frog pond of your own.
Looking for a simple craft activity for the kids? Love cats? Then these easy-to-sew patchwork cats are for you!
Gastronomic gourmets will whet their appetites with this mind-boggling food quiz.
Discover this easy system of numerology which was allegedly invented by Pythagoras! Can your future be foretold simply by studying your own name? Try it and decide for yourself!
Are you looking for a fun, lively and diverse quiz? Look no further! Suitable for all age groups and social settings, this 100 question free quiz is just for you.
Are you looking for love? Great for Valentines Day parties or purely for fun, this light-hearted quiz will surely make you smile.
Are you looking for a fun free quiz? Look no further! The next 100 quiz questions will offer diverse and challenging general knowledge questions, with the answers in italics right next to them!
Are you ready to embrace the Age of Aquarius? Try this fun quiz and test your knowledge of alternative spirituality.
This is a lively and diverse quiz with answers, suitable for pubs, parties, social clubs or school groups.
This fun, free quiz has a bit of everything: history, language, entertainment, books and more! These questions are great for your next trivia event.
How much do you know about Britain? Test your knowledge with this fun, free quiz which is great for parties, pub quizzes, schools or home-schoolers, or social groups of all kinds.
I'd much sooner be creating a new story than be hunting for publishing dates, ISBN numbers and similar details. Hence the creation of this page, as a way of easily keeping track of my information.
Are you planning a Welsh-themed party, or are you celebrating St David's Day? This fun quiz can easily be used as part of the entertainment! It is suitable for all ages, and it can be used to test people's knowledge of the beautiful country of Wales.
Learn how to make easy-to-sew seasonal decorations which are fun, colourful and low-cost.
This free quiz about the American Wild West is a fun addition to a country and western-themed party. You might also learn a bit about history!
Welcome to the Ashbrook Family Tree, a family which dates back to Norman times at least.
Writer's block is a condition created solely by a person's own mind. If applied, the simple steps outlined in this article will help overcome it and even help to ensure that it doesn't happen again.
Learn how to publish your own small book or booklet. Includes planning your budget, designing your cover, experimenting with layouts, choosing your content, and more.
Not too far from the banks of the River Dee, stands the ancient parish church of St Bridget's, which can date its existence back to Viking settlers. The Hogback Stone, displayed inside the church, offers evidence of the Viking influence. The north wall of the Lady Chapel allegedly date from the...
This fun, free quiz is great for St Patrick's Day or any Irish-themed activity. The questions cover general knowledge, history, folklore, geography and the arts. It is suitable for many social situations—from family parties, classroom settings, club or pub quizzes.
Perfect for parties, social gatherings, pub quizzes or school groups. Test yourself with these 100 fun and free quiz questions with answers.
So, you think you know everything about Valentine's Day? Test your knowledge of this popular festival with this fun and free 30-question quiz.
This free quiz can be used at any Burns Night event or Scottish party to add to the fun, and also to educate those who perhaps may not know so much about one of Scotland's most well loved and famous personages.
A fun and educational Hallowe'en quiz with 50 questions (and answers) about one of Britain's most popular and traditional festivals. Great for seasonal parties and get-togethers.
Traditional methods of preserving fruits have been used for centuries. But flavours needn't cling to familiar themes, as this delicious kiwi fruit and apple jam recipe demonstrates.
Preserving fruits is easy. It is a traditional kitchen skill which can create a store of long-life foods which taste delicious, look good and...
Why settle for some vile excuse of a burger which tastes like a fried carpet tile, when for minimal effort you can enjoy homemade burgers? This simple recipe will please your palette without scaring your wallet!
Interstitial Cystitis (or IC) is a recurring condition which causes pain in the pelvic and bladder region, often accompanied by the need for frequent urination, or the feeling that this is needed. IC can effect anyone of any age, though it is most commonly found in women.
Ness Botanic Gardens is a owned by Liverpool University, and is found close to Neston in Wirral, England. The gardens evolved from one man's love of plants and his...
Immortality has been a human ambition since we first walked this Earth. Could the developing sciences of nanotechnology, nanomedicine and artificial intelligence make our ancient hope a reality?
Enjoy this funny guide to finding your perfect partner. The love of your life might just around the corner...
Caldy Hill (260ft high) sits on the west coast of Britain, on the Wirral peninsula, between the villages of West Kirby and Caldy. The following photographs were all taken on 17th March, 2010.
A descriptive account of a circular walking route from West Kirby to Hoylake and back. Or maybe you'd simply enjoy looking at some photos of Wirral, England!
A magnificent bouquet of deep red roses represents a declaration of love to most people. But did you know that many other flowers also carry traditional messages of their own?
Criticism is a part of every writer's life. Here are helpful guidelines on how to give and take constructive criticism within a writers' circle.
A witch works with the hidden, natural laws of nature. Here, one witch talks about her life and magical activities.
How do you approach the seemingly enormous task of writing a novel? This HubPage offers practical suggestions about how to get that first draft finished.
Easy to sew and economical to make, traditional Suffolk Puffs can be stitched together to create colourful and surprisingly beautiful tablecloths.
Pretty Ugly Pottery created a range of novelty tableware which featured funny faces. This is the story of the world-famous Ugly Mugs and how they were made.
Make your own easy-to-sew patchwork eagle wallhanging! Use the FREE SEWING PATTERN!
Do you want to write but feel short on ideas? Are you a member of a writers circle looking for monthly writing projects? This story generator will provide a huge quantity and variety of story ideas simply and quickly
Is your child struggling with calculations? Did you experience real difficulties with basic arithmetic? It could be due to a condition called dyscalculia.
Hens easy to care for, and will readily pay their way by the delicious fresh eggs they lay each day. Read on to learn how to keep hens in an ordinary suburban garden.
Green Witchcraft - some call it hedge witchcraft or herb witchcraft. It's a witchcraft which works with herbs and plant lore, and with elementals...
When learning how to read tarot cards, the attempt to memorise long lists of possible meanings can be very confusing. However, there is an easy and practical way to surmount this.
Create well-rounded, believable characters and easily keep track of details with this free character chart. You'll find that this chart is simple but very useful.
Snoring - or is it sleep apnoea? This serious medical condition causes the brain to be starved of oxygen.
An informal interview with a practitioner of Britain's ancient native religion of Druidry.
Thomas Joseph Walton was a very private man. His poetry was woven through with his philosophy - and while his frame of reference was Christian, his metaphysics went far beyond familiar dogma.
Making a DNA archive is easy and economical, and might just save your life!
Cryonicists plan to freeze their bodies in liquid nitrogen in the hope that they can be restored to a full and healthy life at some future date.
Off to college or university? About to fly the parental nest? Here are practical, low-cost ideas for the things you'll need.
Want fresh eggs for breakfast? Great garden pest control? Comical pets which are easy to care for? Look no further! Keeping chickens is economical and fun.
Potato soup can be served either as a filling starter or as the main meal. It is easy and economical to make.
West Kirby beach wraps around the Wirral peninsula for some twenty-five miles in length, and the display of Blue Flags reveals its rank as one of Europe's cleanest beaches.
Tucked away between Grange Road/Meols Drive and Dee Lane in West Kirby is a small but picturesque oasis of trees, shrubs and formal gardens.
Enjoy these photos of Liverpool by Richard Cosgrove-Bray. Many of these places no longer exist, having been demolished to make way for luxury apartments, hotels and shopping malls.
Turn snapshots into professional-looking images with these simple photography guidelines.
These photos capture a Liverpool which is fast disapearing. Images of Liverpool Docks, Sefton Park, School Lane as they looked during the 1990s.
Enjoy this collection of photographs which depict a popular walker's trail over reed beds, ponds and sand dunes along West Kirby beach in Wirral.
The garden was a wild tangle of waist-high grasses, weeds, brambles and mare's tail when my husband and I bought our home on the Wirral peninsula in 2000. The media was merrily enthusing about the Millennium celebrations; we were almost as happy to locate our boundary fence...
Learn how to make simple, fun and economical paper dolls - and encourage your child's drawing, design and imaginative skills at the same time! Print out the free dolls shown below or try making your own.
Whether you wish to makes studies for future paintings or simply try your hand at a fun hobby sketching pets, here are a few guideline to help your creativity!
Discover how sketching can capture the moment, or be used to develop ideas more fully in the studio.
Adshead, Ashbrook, Bray and McGowan Family Tree. This is the story of four branches of my family, leading back in time from my parents to my grandparents and great-grandparents.
Written in 1993, A Day in the Life of Ondole Andlifesabitch was partially inspired by my reading of A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. It also presents an accurate description not only of my own life at that time, but of life for millions of others who lived under...
This pocket-sized park is home to a surprisingly large variety of waterfowl and other wildlife including water voles, common brown bats, weasels and foxes.
Ashton Park in West Kirby, Cheshire, is an outstanding example of an Edwardian urban green space. It has been awarded with Green Flag status from the Civic Trust every year since 2004.
Thomas Joseph Walton was an English philosopher and spiritual teacher who passed away in 2008. Here is an introduction to his writings.
Making home-made jam is an easy and economical way of preserving fruit for long-term storage. Tasty and rich with Vitamin C, home-made jams are free from artificial colouring and synthetic chemicals.
Hilbre Island sits at the mouth of the Dee Estuary, facing the Irish Sea. Cut off from the mainland twice each day, it is one of Wirral's true beauty spots.