Latest news with #Paulo
The Advertiser
30-06-2025
- Health
- The Advertiser
Alfredo spent 120 days in hospital because no nursing home would take him
Alfredo de Andrade spent 120 days in Maitland Hospital as a severe dementia patient because no nursing home would take him. He'd shown high levels of agitation and aggression, so he was put on psychotropic medication to calm him. The Metford man, who died this month, had initially gone to Maitland Hospital for surgery after he fell and broke his hip. He was transferred to Kurri Kurri Hospital for recovery. "While he was there, he caught COVID," son Paulo de Andrade said. While at Kurri, Alfredo's aggressive behaviour meant he was transferred back to Maitland. "It was a concern that Dad was taking up an acute bed in a major hospital," Paulo said. "But he simply couldn't return home, and we couldn't find a place in a nursing home that could take care of him. "The hospital tried very hard to find a place for Dad. Eventually he did find a place at HammondCare's dementia village at Cardiff." He went into care at the village's eight-bed Quintral Cottage. It is part of the federal government's Special Dementia Care Program (SDCP) for patients with severe symptoms. There are 22 federally-funded SDCP units in Australia and 35 planned in total by 2026. Paulo said the family wanted Alfredo to "have the best quality of life possible in his remaining time". "The plan was to get him off the psychiatric medication, as he was in a safe environment," Paulo said. "As this was done, his aggression came down considerably." After about 12 months at Quintral, he was able to move into a regular cottage at Cardiff. "He became stable, could take instructions from the carers and was happy," Paulo said. Over-medicating elderly patients with dementia - so-called "chemical restraints" - is a controversial topic. Two recent royal commissions found psychotropic medicines were being "misused and overused", particularly among older people and those with a disability. Nonetheless, Paulo accepts that his dad was medicated at hospital for "his own safety". "I'm not saying it's wrong, it's the way it is," he said. "It's difficult for medical staff to get the medication mix right because every individual is different. They have to get a balance and see how they react." Paulo said the staff treating his dad at hospital were "magnificent". However, there were not enough publicly funded dementia places. "The public needs to be more aware of this because dementia cases are rising," he said. "There needs to be more public pressure on politicians for funding and resources for this." Alfredo migrated to Newcastle from Portugal in 1981, along with his wife Maria and their three children. He worked as a boilermaker at Allco Steel at Tomago. As a metal worker, he fabricated steel for projects such as the Australian Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, Chifley Tower and the Sydney Monorail. "Dad was hard-working, kind and caring, who loved his family and friends," Paulo said. "He was brave to bring his family halfway around the world to start a new life." Paulo said it was hard seeing his dad go through severe dementia. "I'm thankful there are places that can take these patients and care for them safely. We need more of them." Federal aged care Minister Sam Rae more than 400,000 people were living with dementia in Australia. This was expected to "double by 2058". "We're working to deliver support that gives people with dementia the dignified care and quality of life they deserve," Mr Rae said. The government had allocated $57 million "to support older patients with dementia to transition out of hospital into aged care". Alfredo de Andrade spent 120 days in Maitland Hospital as a severe dementia patient because no nursing home would take him. He'd shown high levels of agitation and aggression, so he was put on psychotropic medication to calm him. The Metford man, who died this month, had initially gone to Maitland Hospital for surgery after he fell and broke his hip. He was transferred to Kurri Kurri Hospital for recovery. "While he was there, he caught COVID," son Paulo de Andrade said. While at Kurri, Alfredo's aggressive behaviour meant he was transferred back to Maitland. "It was a concern that Dad was taking up an acute bed in a major hospital," Paulo said. "But he simply couldn't return home, and we couldn't find a place in a nursing home that could take care of him. "The hospital tried very hard to find a place for Dad. Eventually he did find a place at HammondCare's dementia village at Cardiff." He went into care at the village's eight-bed Quintral Cottage. It is part of the federal government's Special Dementia Care Program (SDCP) for patients with severe symptoms. There are 22 federally-funded SDCP units in Australia and 35 planned in total by 2026. Paulo said the family wanted Alfredo to "have the best quality of life possible in his remaining time". "The plan was to get him off the psychiatric medication, as he was in a safe environment," Paulo said. "As this was done, his aggression came down considerably." After about 12 months at Quintral, he was able to move into a regular cottage at Cardiff. "He became stable, could take instructions from the carers and was happy," Paulo said. Over-medicating elderly patients with dementia - so-called "chemical restraints" - is a controversial topic. Two recent royal commissions found psychotropic medicines were being "misused and overused", particularly among older people and those with a disability. Nonetheless, Paulo accepts that his dad was medicated at hospital for "his own safety". "I'm not saying it's wrong, it's the way it is," he said. "It's difficult for medical staff to get the medication mix right because every individual is different. They have to get a balance and see how they react." Paulo said the staff treating his dad at hospital were "magnificent". However, there were not enough publicly funded dementia places. "The public needs to be more aware of this because dementia cases are rising," he said. "There needs to be more public pressure on politicians for funding and resources for this." Alfredo migrated to Newcastle from Portugal in 1981, along with his wife Maria and their three children. He worked as a boilermaker at Allco Steel at Tomago. As a metal worker, he fabricated steel for projects such as the Australian Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, Chifley Tower and the Sydney Monorail. "Dad was hard-working, kind and caring, who loved his family and friends," Paulo said. "He was brave to bring his family halfway around the world to start a new life." Paulo said it was hard seeing his dad go through severe dementia. "I'm thankful there are places that can take these patients and care for them safely. We need more of them." Federal aged care Minister Sam Rae more than 400,000 people were living with dementia in Australia. This was expected to "double by 2058". "We're working to deliver support that gives people with dementia the dignified care and quality of life they deserve," Mr Rae said. The government had allocated $57 million "to support older patients with dementia to transition out of hospital into aged care". Alfredo de Andrade spent 120 days in Maitland Hospital as a severe dementia patient because no nursing home would take him. He'd shown high levels of agitation and aggression, so he was put on psychotropic medication to calm him. The Metford man, who died this month, had initially gone to Maitland Hospital for surgery after he fell and broke his hip. He was transferred to Kurri Kurri Hospital for recovery. "While he was there, he caught COVID," son Paulo de Andrade said. While at Kurri, Alfredo's aggressive behaviour meant he was transferred back to Maitland. "It was a concern that Dad was taking up an acute bed in a major hospital," Paulo said. "But he simply couldn't return home, and we couldn't find a place in a nursing home that could take care of him. "The hospital tried very hard to find a place for Dad. Eventually he did find a place at HammondCare's dementia village at Cardiff." He went into care at the village's eight-bed Quintral Cottage. It is part of the federal government's Special Dementia Care Program (SDCP) for patients with severe symptoms. There are 22 federally-funded SDCP units in Australia and 35 planned in total by 2026. Paulo said the family wanted Alfredo to "have the best quality of life possible in his remaining time". "The plan was to get him off the psychiatric medication, as he was in a safe environment," Paulo said. "As this was done, his aggression came down considerably." After about 12 months at Quintral, he was able to move into a regular cottage at Cardiff. "He became stable, could take instructions from the carers and was happy," Paulo said. Over-medicating elderly patients with dementia - so-called "chemical restraints" - is a controversial topic. Two recent royal commissions found psychotropic medicines were being "misused and overused", particularly among older people and those with a disability. Nonetheless, Paulo accepts that his dad was medicated at hospital for "his own safety". "I'm not saying it's wrong, it's the way it is," he said. "It's difficult for medical staff to get the medication mix right because every individual is different. They have to get a balance and see how they react." Paulo said the staff treating his dad at hospital were "magnificent". However, there were not enough publicly funded dementia places. "The public needs to be more aware of this because dementia cases are rising," he said. "There needs to be more public pressure on politicians for funding and resources for this." Alfredo migrated to Newcastle from Portugal in 1981, along with his wife Maria and their three children. He worked as a boilermaker at Allco Steel at Tomago. As a metal worker, he fabricated steel for projects such as the Australian Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, Chifley Tower and the Sydney Monorail. "Dad was hard-working, kind and caring, who loved his family and friends," Paulo said. "He was brave to bring his family halfway around the world to start a new life." Paulo said it was hard seeing his dad go through severe dementia. "I'm thankful there are places that can take these patients and care for them safely. We need more of them." Federal aged care Minister Sam Rae more than 400,000 people were living with dementia in Australia. This was expected to "double by 2058". "We're working to deliver support that gives people with dementia the dignified care and quality of life they deserve," Mr Rae said. The government had allocated $57 million "to support older patients with dementia to transition out of hospital into aged care". Alfredo de Andrade spent 120 days in Maitland Hospital as a severe dementia patient because no nursing home would take him. He'd shown high levels of agitation and aggression, so he was put on psychotropic medication to calm him. The Metford man, who died this month, had initially gone to Maitland Hospital for surgery after he fell and broke his hip. He was transferred to Kurri Kurri Hospital for recovery. "While he was there, he caught COVID," son Paulo de Andrade said. While at Kurri, Alfredo's aggressive behaviour meant he was transferred back to Maitland. "It was a concern that Dad was taking up an acute bed in a major hospital," Paulo said. "But he simply couldn't return home, and we couldn't find a place in a nursing home that could take care of him. "The hospital tried very hard to find a place for Dad. Eventually he did find a place at HammondCare's dementia village at Cardiff." He went into care at the village's eight-bed Quintral Cottage. It is part of the federal government's Special Dementia Care Program (SDCP) for patients with severe symptoms. There are 22 federally-funded SDCP units in Australia and 35 planned in total by 2026. Paulo said the family wanted Alfredo to "have the best quality of life possible in his remaining time". "The plan was to get him off the psychiatric medication, as he was in a safe environment," Paulo said. "As this was done, his aggression came down considerably." After about 12 months at Quintral, he was able to move into a regular cottage at Cardiff. "He became stable, could take instructions from the carers and was happy," Paulo said. Over-medicating elderly patients with dementia - so-called "chemical restraints" - is a controversial topic. Two recent royal commissions found psychotropic medicines were being "misused and overused", particularly among older people and those with a disability. Nonetheless, Paulo accepts that his dad was medicated at hospital for "his own safety". "I'm not saying it's wrong, it's the way it is," he said. "It's difficult for medical staff to get the medication mix right because every individual is different. They have to get a balance and see how they react." Paulo said the staff treating his dad at hospital were "magnificent". However, there were not enough publicly funded dementia places. "The public needs to be more aware of this because dementia cases are rising," he said. "There needs to be more public pressure on politicians for funding and resources for this." Alfredo migrated to Newcastle from Portugal in 1981, along with his wife Maria and their three children. He worked as a boilermaker at Allco Steel at Tomago. As a metal worker, he fabricated steel for projects such as the Australian Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour, Chifley Tower and the Sydney Monorail. "Dad was hard-working, kind and caring, who loved his family and friends," Paulo said. "He was brave to bring his family halfway around the world to start a new life." Paulo said it was hard seeing his dad go through severe dementia. "I'm thankful there are places that can take these patients and care for them safely. We need more of them." Federal aged care Minister Sam Rae more than 400,000 people were living with dementia in Australia. This was expected to "double by 2058". "We're working to deliver support that gives people with dementia the dignified care and quality of life they deserve," Mr Rae said. The government had allocated $57 million "to support older patients with dementia to transition out of hospital into aged care".
The Star
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Global uncertainty weighs on Vietnam's economic outlook
Dragon fruit prepared for export in Bình Thuan Province. Vietnam's economic outlook is heavily dependent on the outcome of trade negotiations. — VNA/VNS HANOI: Vietnam's economic outlook is heavily dependent on the outcome of trade negotiations and is constrained by elevated global uncertainty on trade policies and economic growth, according to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Paulo Medas. The team has concluded discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with Vietnamese authorities from June 11 to 24. According to the IMF team, high tariffs will likely take effect in the third quarter. In such a scenario, economic growth is projected to slow to 5.4 per cent in 2025 and decelerate further in 2026. However, if global trade tensions subside, the economic outlook would improve significantly. 'Downside risks are high. A further escalation in global trade tensions or a tightening of global financial conditions could weaken further exports and investment,' Paulo said. Domestically, financial stress could re-emerge from tighter financial conditions and high corporate indebtedness, he added. On the upside, achieving non-discriminatory trade agreements and successfully implementing planned infrastructure and structural reforms could significantly boost medium-term growth. 'Given the uncertain outlook, policy priorities should focus on preserving macro-financial stability while navigating economic adjustments. Fiscal policy, supported by a low level of public debt, should take the lead in cushioning the near-term impact, especially under downside scenarios. Accelerated implementation of public investment and strengthening social safety nets would be important,' he stressed. He pointed out that monetary policy has much more limited room and should be decisively focused on anchoring inflation expectations. Allowing the exchange rate flexibility will be critical as the economy adjusts to the external shock. Some monetary easing could be considered if global interest rates decline as expected and inflation falls. Vigilance is needed to monitor and act against inflation pressures that may arise, including due to external shocks. These challenges underscore the importance of modernising the monetary policy framework to enhance its effectiveness and anchor stability, including by replacing credit growth limits with an improved prudential framework. 'Further efforts are needed to strengthen financial sector soundness. To bolster banking system resilience, priorities include strengthening bank supervision, build liquidity and capital buffers, and further improving the bank resolution framework,' he said. 'The Government's plans for an ambitious reform agenda are very welcome and could boost medium-term growth, but implementation will be key.' — Vietnam News/ANN
Telegraph
22-06-2025
- Telegraph
The wildlife secrets of Africa's ‘Galápagos Islands'
Our tender vessel bobbed gently towards the docking spot, and an unexpected frisson of excitement ran through the group as we noticed a group of TV cameramen, journalists and photographers assembled on the quayside. On an island which, with its dual-nation counterpart, has only around 35,000 visitors annually, there was rising speculation that the media welcoming committee might be for us. Fleeting red carpet thoughts were quickly, but charmingly, dashed as our waiting guide Paulo helped us up the stone steps to São Tomé harbour. 'Actually, they're waiting for the prime minister who is coming to look at a building project in the port,' he admitted. 'But I'm really looking forward to spending the day with you.' As the booted and suited premier swept by, followed by his entourage, we walked in the opposite direction and boarded waiting minibuses. The amusing misunderstanding was among many memorable cameos from our time on this tiny island in the Gulf of Guinea, 155 miles off the west coast of Africa. São Tomé and Príncipe, 93 miles apart, make up the second-smallest and second-least populated African country after Seychelles; but it's likely everyone's heard of the latter. Our minibus set off up the steep road towards the verdant cloak of tropical forests which cover a third of the island, while out at sea, our ship, Crystal Symphony, receded into the background. With no direct flights from the UK, São Tomé is most easily reached via a cruise – yet only three or four small ships dock there each month. Eleven days earlier, my multi-stop voyage had begun in Cape Town, pausing on the coasts of Angola, Benin and Ghana, with São Tomé marking the penultimate port of call. While these islands had admittedly never been on my radar, I was pleased to be able to tick off four new countries on a single cruise – a first for me. Crystal is now owned by travel company Abercrombie Kent, and the two have combined their seafaring and land-based clout to offer thought-provoking, culture-rich sailings to destinations off the mainstream cruise charts. The elegant, classic-style Crystal Symphony recently underwent a huge refurbishment, with enlarged suites reducing passenger capacity by almost 300. As a result, the ship never felt crowded, and with restaurants including the only Nobu at sea, free-flowing drinks and incredibly attentive staff we were cosseted in luxury and comfort throughout our off-grid adventure. With as many as eight excursions on offer each day, it was a sailing fraught with decisions. The majority of ports were out of town and primarily catered to muscular workhorse cargo vessels, creating something of a beauty and the beast scenario when the sleek thoroughbred Crystal Symphony glided alongside. Shore tours (ranging from around £44 for a sightseeing drive around the Angolan capital, Luanda, to more than £500 for a small plane flight over the towering red sand dunes of the Namib Desert) are necessary to get the most out of the cruise. All were excellent. There were wildlife encounters, including the incongruous sight of endearing African penguins waddling along the warm sands at Boulders Beach outside Cape Town, followed by hundreds of blubbery Cape fur seals basking on the shore and diving in the waters at Walvis Bay. I was especially captivated by São Tomé, hugging the equator and, with its sister Principe, often described as the African Galapagos. Relative to their size, they have one of the most concentrated biological diversities on earth with hundreds of endemic plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies, including the critically endangered grosbeak, the world's largest canary. Five of the seven species of sea turtles breed on the pristine beaches and humpback whales can be spotted from July to October. The impenetrable forests, home to much of the birdlife and flora, mean significant sightings are rare in the space of a few hours. However, there's still much to astonish curious visitors and nature lovers on an island just 30 miles long and 20 miles wide. As our minibus slowed on the long pull up to Saint Nicholas Waterfall, brushing past giant yellow trumpet flowers, giggling youngsters waved and ran alongside. One enterprising lad offered us a handful of jewel-bright freshly picked wild raspberries, while others cooled off in the cascade's crystal-clear waters. A rustling in the trees and flashes of gleaming dark plumage heralded the arrival of bronze-naped pigeons, the island's national bird. Back on the road, multi-tasking Paulo – also a school history teacher and taxi driver – explained how the islands, which gained independence in 1975, were uninhabited until the arrival of 15th century Portuguese navigators. Sugar cane, later replaced by coffee and cacao plantations, flourished in the volcanic soil, although they were bitter harvests built on enslaved and child labour. After sipping strong coffee at a former plantation, now a home-spun museum, we strolled through the charmingly faded colonial town of São Tomé to watch an energetic costumed dance, visit a chocolate shop and tour the squat fort topped by a lighthouse. The rest of the cruise may have involved plenty of big-hitting sights and experiences, but it was the smallest island, which most people have never heard of, that left me with the greatest impression. One day, I hope to return – and perhaps next time, I'll avoid being upstaged by the prime minister. Essentials Jeannine Williamson was a guest of Crystal Cruises, which has the 12-night all-inclusive cruise from Tema to Cape Town from £3,499 per person, including return flights from London, a one-night pre-cruise stay at Labadi Beach Hotel, Tema, airport transfers and gratuities. Departs December 11, 2025. Book through Mundy Cruising (020 7399 7670)
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
First wedding held at 19th century folly Appley Tower
A beautiful and recently refurbished 19th century tower on the Isle of Wight is now available for weddings. The first wedding was held at Appley Tower in Ryde on Sunday, May 25. Paulo and Lois from Buckinghamshire were the happy couple. Celebrant Elaine Cesar said it was a "complete honour and privilege taking the ceremony for this gorgeous couple". She explained: "Lois and Paulo approached me last summer, wanting a romantic beach wedding. "Quite by coincidence, I found out that the tower was refurbished and had recently opened. "I contacted Dawn and Jenna from Monkton Arts, and they were over the moon with the idea of a wedding. "After sending photographs, Lois and Paulo were so very excited and visited their 'castle' and the deal was done! "A magical dream come true for them." Lois, previously a professional dancer, and Paulo, a Globe of Death artiste, first met in 2019 during the pantomime season in Edinburgh where they were both working on a Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Then, Covid struck and Paulo returned to Brazil, but returned five months later. In a whirlwind romance, they now have four children. Monkton Arts provided decorations at the tower, and canapes at the mini reception. Other suppliers were Roxanne Chatburn Photographer, Grace Captured Films, Wight Ribbon, Centrepiece Cake Design, Cathy's Bloomers and Isle of Wight Beauty Lynsey Marie. The couple celebrated at Appley Tower and later at Ryde Castle, and returned later in the evening to have a dip in the sea - kitted out in their wedding refinery for a magical photo shoot. For more about weddings at Appley Tower contact Dawn or Jenna on 07490 486356 or monktonarts@ Celebrant Elaine Cesar is on or 07814 120610.
Daily Mirror
22-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Overlooked seaside town hopes to rival Cornwall and is seeing a 'second wind'
Despite being once blasted as one of the worst seaside towns in the entire UK, when Mirror reporter Julia Banim travelled to Morecambe in Lancashire two years ago, she found herself charmed by the locals Getting labelled one of the worst seaside towns in the UK can't have been easy for the locals, but when The Mirror visited Morecambe, Lancashire, two years ago, they had taken it in their stride, defending their beloved town fiercely. Once one of the destinations of choice for holidaymakers in the UK looking to feel the sand beneath their toes and spend some time munching on fish and chips and staring at the waves, Morecambe is no longer the popular holiday spot it once was. Cheap package holidays have drawn many Brits out of the UK for the summer holidays, and some of Morecambe's once-biggest draws shuttered decades ago, leaving the town's tourism for a long time a shadow of what it once was. The Super Swimming Stadium used to attract tourists in droves, as the largest European outdoor pool, but when it closed down in 1975 due to structural issues, glitzy events like the Miss World Competition and international swimming competitions went with it. Despite criticisms that Morecambe has faded from its glory days, locals did not hesitate to praise their home to The Mirror, taking great pride in the town's resilient character, quirky architecture, and breathtaking views across the bay. A new "ambitious" project is currently in the works that could see Morecambe returned to its rightful place among the UK's top tourist destinations: the Eden Project Morecambe. Set to be built on the site of the former stadium, an environmental hub and visitor attraction many locals hope will breathe new life into the quaint seaside town. Local cockles shop owner Ray Edmonson can still remember Morecambe in its heyday. Ray, the proprietor of the Rick Stein recommended Edmonson's Fresh Fish, has seen many changes, both good and bad, during his 74 years in Morecambe. As he dishes out my lunch - deliciously buttery potted shrimp and cockles - Ray, who is one of the last two fishermen in the town, said that the new project should do a lot of good for the local community. It's a sentiment shared by many of his fellow business owners. I catch up with Paulo Brucciani, owner of Brucciani's a delightful family-run ice cream parlour, situated right next to the historic Winter Gardens. For 130 years, the multi-award-winning Brucciani family have served scoops to everyone from Winston Churchill's daughter to Bob Hope to King Charles III, and they've seen Morecambe flounder and rise again. Looking forward to the future, Paulo would like Morecambe to be held in the same regard as Cornish resorts such as St. Ives, and believes they could do "rather well". Paulo remarked that the town has "really turned around" in recent years, thanks partly to the abundance of festivals, from music to kite flying to vintage. He regards the upcoming Eden Project as "the icing on the cake". He continued: "We feel that Morecambe has a second wind. We may not be a destination stay, but day-trippers come here now. We're not Blackpool. "By that, I mean it's not all fun fairs and kiss-me-quick hats and slot machines. I like to think of it as a bit more sophisticated." Paulo grew up listening to tales of Morecambe's golden era, but the public perception of the seaside town doesn't always project such a glamorous image. One "underwhelmed" Tripadvisor user travelling up from St. Austell in September 2022 blasted the town as "very kiss me quick and a bit scruffy" in their one-star review, adding that the place needed "a damn good clean." Another visitor claims they visited Morecambe back in 2021, but left after just 90 minutes, declaring it to be the "most run down, dirty, depressing seaside resort I have ever visited in my life." This "dirty" image certainly did not square with my impression of the seafront, and it's clear there has been some progress in terms of cleaning up the beach. Morecambe's relaxed, friendly atmosphere has long appealed to Bernie, 50, who has lived in Morecambe and Lancaster all her life and "wouldn't live anywhere else". Bernie, who has worked at the highly regarded Atkinson's Fish & Chips for 20 years, admits the promenade was a bit "run down" when she was growing up, but has fond memories of heading up to the now knocked-down funfair as a teenager every Friday night. When the funfair went, along with the famed swimming pool, she feels there wasn't much left for kids to do, which could be off-putting for families. She's hopeful that the Eden Project will help bring Morecambe "back onto the map", bringing "thousands" in. In recent times, Bernie has been impressed by all that's been done to clean up the beach and promenade, which she describes as "absolutely gorgeous". Bernie is particularly happy with the difference residents have seen since Morecambe's sea defences were put up in 2018, which have put a stop to sand covering the streets. Dogs have recently been banned from two bathing beaches too. In 2024, Morecambe's bathing waters were classified as 'good' in Morecambe South by Defra, and 'sufficient' in Morecambe North as per Lancaster City Council, and there are plans to boost this score up to 'Excellent'. Beachgoers need to be careful when visiting Morecambe Bay, due to its notoriously fast tides and quicksand. As per advice given by The Beach Guide, visitors shouldn't stray too far out into the bay and should be mindful that there is no lifeguard cover. There are, however, some beautiful beaches to enjoy along the promenade area - both Morecambe North and Morecambe South scooped up awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024 for being 'clean and safe' beaches at The Seaside Awards. Bernie also went on to note that the Bay Gateway, the Heysham to M6 link road which was opened in 2016, has made it much easier for tourists to visit Morecambe, and means they no longer have to muddle their way through Lancaster. While the Eden Project in Cornwall focuses on trees and plants, Morecambe's will centre around marine life, and for Tony Vettese, there is no better place in the UK. The owner of the iconic Morecambe store The Old Pier Bookshop keeps a pair of binoculars on his desk to observe the birds that swoop and soar over the bay, excitedly remarking that there is a grand total of 4.5 million birds in the bay. Tony, who moved to Morecambe in 1961 when he was three years old, also enthuses over the glorious sunsets he gets to see from his enviably situated doorstep, illuminating the backdrop of the rugged hills of the Lake District. Proud resident Tony told the Mirror: "In the last 15 years, Morecambe has been getting busier year on year. My business has improved, and I know other people's businesses have as well." Reflecting on the impact the new Eden Project will have, he added: "We've been waiting for this a long time. [...] It will change Morecambe completely. Not just a seasonal town but twelve months a year." Morecambe has the distinct feel of a town rediscovering its charms. In 2008, the striking art deco Midland Hotel once again resumed business, while in 2022, the iconic Winter Gardens reopened its doors to the public once more after more than 40 years. It was expected the new Eden Project would have been partially opened in late 2025, as per the Lancaster Guardian, and the growing anticipation among business owners is palpable - however, Eden bosses said in 2024, it's more likely to be 2027, or 2028 when doors finally open, so locals may have to wait a little longer to feel the benefits of the rejuvenation it could bring to their town. There's plenty of nostalgia here, as well as a real feel of a new chapter beginning in Morecambe's long and distinctive history. It will be fascinating to see what the town will look like in ten years. The Mirror has reached out to Morecambe Town Council for comment.
