Jürgen Klopp has been presented with a statue that perfectly captures his pride and passion for the club by Liverpool supporters union, Spirit of Shankly.
The 18-inch high bronze shows Jürgen Klopp with one hand over his heart and the other in a raised fist salute to fans.
It was created by sculptor Andy Edwards, the man behind the large-than-life size Beatles statue at the Pier Head which has become one of the most photographed attractions on the waterfront.
He was given a photograph of Jürgen Klopp on the touchline at his final away match, against Aston Villa in May last year, to use as a basis for his design.
Back in the city for Liverpool’s final game of the season, trophy presentation and victory parade, Jürgen Klopp met up with members of the Spirit of Shankly to receive the gift as a thank you for all he did for Liverpool FC during his time as manager.
The statue was presented to him by Bill Shankly’s granddaughter, Karen Gill, who is a patron of Spirit of Shankly, chair Paul Khan and vice chair Peter Hooton.
They described the finished artwork, which was engraved by Crosby-based jeweller JJ Pimbley with a dedication, as astounding and “perfectly capturing the man who led the club and us on an incredible journey” and said:
“In January 2024, when Jürgen announced he would be leaving at the end of the season, there was sadness, incredulity and disbelief.
“But these emotions changed quickly to admiration and thanks for what he’d done in returning LFC to a club regularly competing for and winning major trophies again. In the eight years plus since his arrival at Anfield in 2015, he had converted the fans from ‘doubters to believers’.
“Spirit of Shankly have presented numerous Shankly statues over the years, but we decided to commemorate Klopp with his own unique figure as a sign of our appreciation.
“We approached Castle Fine Arts Foundry – the company responsible for The Beatles statue at the Pier Head, the Bob Paisley and Emlyn Hughes statue at Anfield, and the ‘All Together Now’ Christmas truce statue in the gardens of St Luke’s Bombed Out Church in Leece Street.
“We met with sculptor Andy Edwards and gave him a photo of Jürgen taken at his last away match in charge which he used as his template.”
Sculptor Andy said he’d found it hugely enjoyable to work on such a heartfelt tribute from Reds fans:
“Jürgen is a true icon of the modern game who breathed new confidence and renewed winning mentality into this city,” he added. “It’s a well-deserved tribute and an honour for me to have been a part of.”
Handing over the statue to its new owner, Karen explained:
“This gesture not only celebrates Klopp’s indelible impact on LFC, but also continues the enduring legacy of my grandfather Bill Shankly whose principles of unity and dedication remain at the heart of our club and its supporters, something that Jürgen also embodied.”
Chair of the Spirit of Shankly, Paul said:
“It wasn’t for the trophies or the great days and nights he gave us, although we will always be eternally grateful for those. It was gifted to him because he got us – our culture and our politics – and we got him. Jürgen gave us back the most important thing you can have: belief.”
For more information, visit the Spirit of Shankly website.
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Voyagers Restaurant & Bar is welcoming guests to The Terrace – a new outdoor dining space which opened this week in the heart of Liverpool’s Ropewalks district.
Staying true to its ethos of simple pleasures – good food, relaxed service, and a welcoming atmosphere – Voyagers is now extending that experience into the sunshine.
The Terrace operates on a walk-in basis, offering a laid-back spot to eat, drink, and unwind. The food menu focuses on sharing, with mezze boards, charcuterie and cheese platters, and an offer of three small plates for £19.95. Dishes include popular options such as chargrilled prawns, barbequed chicken satay skewers and a grilled peach and chicory salad, ideal for leisurely afternoons with friends.
A brand-new Spritzer Menu has also been introduced, with drinks starting at £12 and a 2-for-1 offer during Happy Hour (5pm to 7pm Monday to Friday and 3pm to 5pm Saturday and Sunday). Highlights include the bright and zesty Limoncello Spritz and the classic Aperol. Guests can also enjoy jugs of sangria and iced coffees with indulgent options such as a freddo cappuccino or affogato made with rich vanilla and espresso ice creams.
Whether it’s a post-work catch-up, a weekend gathering, or simply a chance to soak up the sunshine, The Terrace at Voyagers offers the perfect setting.
Jake Parry, Head Chef at Voyagers, said: “We’ve always wanted Voyagers to feel like a place where people can slow down, share good food, and just enjoy themselves – and The Terrace is a natural extension of that. There’s something special about eating outdoors when the sun’s out and the drinks are cold.
“Whether it’s a relaxing afternoon with mezze and spritzers, or a quick catch-up after work, we’ve created a space that’s all about summer at its best – relaxed, sociable, and full of flavour.”
To book or for more information, visit the Voyagers website.
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Everton Women’s newly appointed CEO, Hannah Forshaw, will take up her new position for the 2025/26 Barclays WSL season.
Currently the Chief Operating Officer of The Jockey Club, Forshaw is a Chartered Accountant with a Masters degree in Business Administration from the Liverpool Business School and brings a wealth of experience from a range of senior roles across sport.
A Women in Football Committee member during her time as Vice President of Operations at Liverpool FC, Forshaw joined The Jockey Club in 2023 as Group Operations Director, after more than 12 years at Anfield. She became The Jockey Club’s COO in 2024.
Angus Kinnear, Everton CEO, said:
“Hannah is an outstanding leader and the perfect person to guide Everton Women into an exciting new era, as Goodison Park becomes the largest dedicated women’s football stadium in the world. She brings with her a wealth of experience in driving growth and delivering notable change across football and in the world of racing.
“Those credentials will be crucial as the custodian of Goodison’s legacy, and in delivering the bold vision for our new home. Her skillset is exactly what is needed to ensure our ambitions can be fulfilled on and off the pitch, and we all look forward to her arrival.”
Everton announced earlier this month that, following the move to Hill Dickinson Stadium by the senior men’s side, Goodison Park will become the permanent home for the senior women’s team – a move described as “a landmark moment for the women’s game” by Nikki Doucet, the Chair of WSL Football.
Forshaw said:
“It’s clear the Club’s owners, The Friedkin Group, have big plans for Everton Women, and the opportunity to lead the team tasked with bringing those plans to fruition is hugely exciting.
“Turning Goodison into the permanent home for Everton Women is a real statement of intent. The ambition is to build an Everton team in our new home that makes our fans proud and which challenges for honours. I’m looking forward to working with Brian Sørensen, the players and everybody at the Club as we strive to fulfil that vision.”
For more information, visit the Everton website.
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Since opening its doors in Liverpool in 2022, Alcotraz has firmly established itself as one of the city’s most distinctive and immersive cocktail experiences, welcoming thousands of guests – or more fittingly, “inmates” – each month.
Now, for the first time, Alcotraz is expanding beyond its signature cell block setting with the launch of Alcotraz: The Yard – a brand new, open-air prison yard experience available exclusively in Liverpool this summer.
Running for a limited time only, The Yard offers visitors the chance to step into an entirely new chapter of the Alcotraz narrative. Hidden behind an unassuming tool shed lies the bar’s most covert operation to date – a creative contraband cocktail service set within a fully themed outdoor prison yard. Guests can expect signature drinks served in cleverly disguised containers, including repurposed oil cans and modified prison-issue boots.
More than just an outdoor venue, The Yard delivers a fully immersive experience where visitors can interact with characters, explore the setting, and become part of the unfolding story. Activities include a makeshift gym, a basketball court, and bleacher seating where guests can scheme with fellow inmates and engage with the storyline. It’s a one-of-a-kind environment that blends theatre, storytelling, and hospitality.
Inspired by popular film and television portrayals of prison life – including Shawshank Redemption, Orange is the New Black, and Prison Break – Alcotraz has become a cultural phenomenon, now operating across six UK locations. However, The Yard marks the brand’s first foray into outdoor immersive experiences and is available exclusively in Liverpool.
Located in the heart of the city, Alcotraz: The Yard is free to enter with an advance reservation. Drinks and light snacks are available for purchase using themed tokens in the form of contraband cigarettes, adding to the immersive narrative. The space is suitable for small and large groups and is available for both public bookings and private hire.
This latest development comes from Inventive Productions, the UK’s leading immersive hospitality group and creators of Alcotraz. Known for its other innovative concepts such as the Wild West-themed Moonshine Saloon in Liverpool and the futuristic Avora in London, the company continues to redefine the boundaries of experiential entertainment.
Sam Shearman, creator of Alcotraz ‘The Yard’ and founder of Inventive Productions says:
“We are so excited to be opening our first ever outdoor experience, especially in such an amazing city as Liverpool. We’re thrilled to be able to grow the Alcotraz brand further and this new Liverpool site sees us experiment with really ambitious expansions to our unique storyline.”
Book tickets for Alcotraz ‘The Yard’ here.
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The Walrus Has a Right To Adventure is a fast-paced, climate-conscious feel-good play by Wirral writer Billie Collins, which premieres at the Everyman, Liverpool, for just ten performances, from Thursday 12 to Saturday 21 June.
Boasting live Foley sound-effects, bringing nature vividly to life, The Walrus Has a Right To Adventure is directed by Nathan Crossan-Smith. The cast is Tasha Dowd, Reginald Edwards and Princess Khumalo.
Inspired by strange but true headlines, including a white stag being spotted in the town centre of Bootle, Merseyside in 2021, the play follows three very different people as the wild unexpectedly enters their ordinary lives.
Tasha Dowd, writer of Tell Me How it Ends, which was produced by Liverpool Everyman in 2024, plays Rio, a sweet and earnest Tesco nightshift worker from Liverpool’s night takes an unexpected turn when a stag crashes into the store like something out of a Tom Hardy film. The encounter prompts a moment of reflection, leading Rio to question parts of their identity. As an actor, Tasha’s credits include Stocking Fillers and Vernons Girls at the Royal Court, Liverpool.
LIPA graduate Princess Khumalo, whose credits include The Streets Where We Live (Falling Doors, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse), plays Hazel, a sharp and witty woman living in Colorado Springs with her boyfriend Aiden, is caught off guard when he attempts to propose with a bear standing just behind him. The surreal moment gets Hazel thinking about love, life choices, and what settling down really means.
Oskar, a Norwegian tour guide from a long line of disapproving fishermen, turns up to work one day to find a walrus has taken over his boat, forcing him to rethink not just his next move, but how to keep making a living. Oskar is played by Reginald Edwards, whose credits include Great Expectations (Manchester Royal Exchange), A Christmas Carol, Hamlet, and Frankenstein (TNT/ADG Europe), as well as The Comeback Special and The Collector (Hope Street Theatre).
The play introduces characters at very different stages of their lives, offering something relatable for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The story also includes a heartfelt queer narrative, which the writer hopes will resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences looking for authentic and meaningful representation on stage.
Wirral-born writer Billie Collins has had a long-standing connection with Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, first engaging with the theatres as a teenager. This new production continues the organisation’s commitment to nurturing regional talent by bringing Billie’s latest work to the stage. A graduate of the BBC Writersroom Northern Voices programme, Billie’s recent credits include Peak Stuff (ThickSkin Theatre, UK Tour), Too Much World at Once (Box of Tricks Theatre, UK Tour), Saga (BBC Radio 4) and episodes of Malory Towers series 5 and 6 (King Bert Productions for CBBC).
Billie said:
‘The title, The Walrus Has a Right To Adventure, came from a news story about a walrus that strayed into backyards in Kotka, Finland, which was shared in my family WhatsApp group. That sparked the idea for this play, which explores themes of nature and climate, and the gap between our ideas of these things and what they’re really like. But I think it’s also about responsibility and freedom. Each character is struggling in some way with a weight of obligation – to their families, their jobs, their community… What happens when you realise you’re not really living the life you want? How can you make a change?’
The Walrus Has a Right To Adventure is directed by Nathan Crossan-Smith, who worked with Young Everyman Playhouse (YEP) on A Monster Calls in 2024. There is a workshop on Saturday 21 June with director Nathan Crossan-Smith, exploring how Nathan has used Foley and soundscapes to bring writer’s vision to life. Composer and Sound designer Oliver Vibrans (Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare North Playhouse), an Ivor Novello Award-winning composer, brings live Foley sound effects to the performance. The cast has trained as foley artists, recreating the sounds of the natural world in real time on the stage to immerse the audience more deeply in the play’s environment.
Lighting Designer Rajiv Pattani, whose credits include Yellowman at the Orange Tree Theatre was nominated for Best Lighting Design at the Broadway World UK Awards in 2022. Set and Costume design is by Chloe Wyn (These Majestic Creatures, Stephen Joseph Theatre), Voice Coach is Rachel Nicholson and Abbie Caskie from YEP joins the production as Trainee Assistant Director, working alongside Nathan Crossan-Smith.
There is a post-show discussion following the Wednesday 18 June performance, with members of the cast and company. Accessible performances include a Captioned Performance on Monday 16 June at 7:30pm and an Audio-described Performance on Thursday 19 June at 7:30pm. The Walrus Has a Right To Adventure was developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme.
For tickets and more information, visit the Everyman website.
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Liverpool Coffee Festival is coming back in June and it’s going to be four times bigger than last year’s event!
2024 saw the launch of the festival in the Baltic Triangle, supporting the city’s growing coffee scene and celebrating speciality coffee with a weekend of tastings and talks.
That proved such a success that its creators have decided to do it all again and on a much larger scale.
This year it will take place over four different neighbouring venues – Mill Yard, Sub Rosa, Black Lodge Brewery and Wiff Waff – with well over 100 different coffees from 16 local and national roasteries to try.
There’ll also be a chance to meet and get some insider tips from the coffee professionals, take part in panel talks, tastings, brewing masterclasses, latte art competitions and treat yourself to coffee-related items including ceramics, fresh bakes and dairy products.
And, if all that wasn’t enough, Press Bros Coffee will be there creating their amazing signature espresso martinis, Black Lodge has a special coffee beer and Ditto is programming a live music stage over the two days, showcasing some great local talent.
Ped Hunter from Botanical Garden and Sub Rosa, and Katy McGrath from Crosby Coffee came up with the idea of a Liverpool Coffee Festival after visiting other similar events in London and Manchester.
They thought a festival here would be an opportunity for coffee lovers to enjoy trying different coffees and learn more about their backstory, as well as supporting independents and the network of farmers and green importers behind the whole bean to cup process.
Ped said:
“We put on the first Liverpool Coffee Festival in April last year and it was amazing to see people really enjoying it and getting involved with it,”
“We’re increasing the roasters this year so there’s going to be 150 coffees from 16 roasteries and another 20 coffee culture-related stalls.
“There’s a really nice mix alongside educational talks and Ditto are curating the live music.
“Compared to last year’s event it’s going to be about quadruple the size in terms of what’s going on because we’ll have a lot more talks, the live music and more spaces for people to hang out so they can spend the whole day here.
“It’s on for six hours each day, from 10am to 4pm, and obviously people might not want to drink lots of coffees in one hour so there’ll be loads more happening.
“There’ll be all the roasters with different samples then in between they can hang out with family or friends, listen to a talk, play games, eat food – then go back and have some more coffee.”
Ped said:
“Coffee is best enjoyed around people, but tasting is something we’re never really trained to do so it’s nice to have a chance to learn the language of flavours because there’s so much we can get out of that.
“You might not know why you like a particular coffee shop and its coffee, but it might actually be because they’ve worked with the same farmer for five years.
“We don’t always see all the things that go into an amazing cup of coffee, we just like what we like, but there are so many people behind the scenes in the process of making that amazing cup.
“At Liverpool Coffee Festival, people can come, try some different things, learn a bit more and who knows, they might get a new favourite cup?”
Liverpool Coffee Festival is on Saturday and Sunday, June 7th & 8th from 10am to 4pm.
For tickets, visit the Liverpool Coffee Festival event page here.
Find out the latest in Liverpool here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
This June, love will be in the air as Backyard Cinema’s critically acclaimed production of Romeo + Juliet returns to St George’s Hall, Liverpool, for a spectacular week-long cinematic residency.
Taking place from 23rd to 29th June 2025, this immersive reimagining of Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 cult classic promises to be one of the city’s most atmospheric and talked-about events of the summer.
This is not just a film screening. Audiences will step into the grandeur of St George’s Hall – a Grade I-listed neoclassical masterpiece – and be transported into the heart of Verona via candlelit aisles and the soaring sound of a live choir. As the film unfolds, iconic tracks from the original soundtrack such as “Young Hearts Run Free,” “Everybody’s Free,” “Kissing You,” and “When Doves Cry” will be performed live, interspersed throughout the screening, creating a deeply immersive, multisensory experience unlike anything else on the UK cinema scene.
Backyard Cinema has spent the past decade redefining what it means to go to the movies. What started as a DIY project in a London garden has grown into one of the country’s leading alternative cinema experiences. With over half a million attendees to date, Backyard Cinema is known for transforming spaces into unforgettable worlds, where film, theatre and music collide in dazzling harmony. Their production of Romeo + Juliet has toured extensively to sold-out audiences and glowing reviews, and its return to Liverpool marks a highly anticipated highlight of their 2025 UK tour.
St George’s Hall provides the perfect setting for this romantic and dramatic tale. One of Liverpool’s most iconic cultural landmarks, its opulent architecture – from Corinthian columns to mosaic floors – evokes a sense of timeless grandeur that amplifies the intensity of Shakespeare’s story.
This event promises to captivate a wide audience – from devoted film enthusiasts and couples in search of the perfect date night, to anyone craving a truly unforgettable evening. Whether you’re revisiting Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling adaptation or experiencing it for the first time, this is a rare chance to see one of cinema’s most iconic love stories in a bold and breathtaking new light.
Dominic Davies (Backyard Cinema Founder & CEO) says “I can’t wait to return to Liverpool, with Romeo+Juliet. The venue is such a perfect fit and the audience reactions made last year’s sold out screenings a really special experience. With a brand new set of soloists and band this year’s performance is set to be bigger and better than ever before.
Backyard Cinema’s Romeo + Juliet will be staged at St George’s Hall from 23rd to 29th June 2025, with evening performances nightly at 7:30pm. Matinee shows will also take place on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th June.
Tickets on sale now at www.backyardcinema.co.uk/liverpool
Get the latest culture news for Liverpool HERE.
Clatterbridge fundraiser Joy Ramsay is encouraging more people to give up their time to help others as we celebrate Volunteers Week 2025.
Joy, from Wallasey, described volunteering for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity as one of the best things you can do for others – and yourself.
During Volunteer Week, which runs from 2-8 June, she called for people to use some of their spare time for good deeds.
She said: “It has been proven that volunteering is one of the top things you can do for your own wellbeing. So, you can help other people at the same time as you are doing something for yourself. I would encourage everyone to volunteer if they can.”
Joy was treated for throat cancer at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Wirral after being diagnosed in 2018 when her son Carter was just 18 months old.
She said: “I went from a normal, healthy person who didn’t smoke or drink to a cancer patient. I am normally the type of person who talks about everything, but I went into shock and didn’t want to talk about what was happening.
“I had been a dancer for 20 years, worked all over the world and was used to organising events. After my treatment finished, I didn’t just want to walk away and say ‘bye’, I wanted to give something back.”
So Joy set about organising a black-tie ball which raised more than £12,000 for Clatterbridge. During the evening, she even auctioned the services of husband Nelson as a handyman and chef for a day for a lucky winner.
She went on to put on bake sales for the charity and became an active volunteer, helping with bucket collections and at events such as the Glow Green night walk.
Joy, 48, is now a regular face in The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Wirral, where she hosts a charity stall packed with self-designed and produced clothing for children made from up-cycled materials.
She said: “I am a workaholic, and I have to be busy. When I was recovering from my cancer treatment I was planning the ball, it gave me a reason, a good focus.
“I love volunteering, meeting patients and listening to them. When I chat to people in the hospital at my stall and they tell me they are having treatment I tell them I did too, and they can relate to that.”
Joy is just one of a host of volunteers for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity who play a vital role in helping raise funds for people with cancer.
From hosting fundraisers to helping with collections in supermarkets, being on hand at big events to help participants, or distributing and collecting donation tubs in local businesses, volunteers are the beating heart of the charity.
Antony Jones, Community Fundraising Manager for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, said: “I would like to say a huge thanks to Joy and all our volunteers for everything they do.
“Not only is volunteering a great way to help local people with cancer, but it is also an opportunity to make friends and become part of a team of people making a real difference.
“Volunteers are crucial to the work we do and I would encourage other people to get involved if they can.
“We’re looking for particular help with our collection tubs at the moment, placing and servicing them in local shops and businesses, it’s a really flexible volunteering role that fits around regular work and family commitments.”
Check out the tub volunteer role, and all the volunteer opportunities available with Clatterbridge Cancer Charity to see how you can make a difference to cancer patients and their families living across Merseyside, Cheshire and beyond.
As well as building your experience and adding some brilliant skills to your CV, being a volunteer is a great way to give something back to individuals or communities.
“From supporting Clatterbridge Cancer Charity at collections to helping make events an unforgettable experience for participants, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Whether you can spare a few minutes or a few days a month – there are lots of volunteering opportunities.
Find out more here.
Find out more about Clatterbridge’s pioneering work HERE.
Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse theatres are set to benefit from a wealth of experience as Laura Collier and Paul Maddock join the Liverpool and Merseyside Theatres Trust Board of Trustees.
The new appointments bring valuable skills in creativity, artist development, cultural strategy, inclusion, governance and legal expertise to Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse theatres, further strengthening an already accomplished board.
Laura Collier, an Independent Creative Director and Executive Producer, brings a wealth of experience in cultural leadership, artistic strategy, and organisational transformation. Her career includes senior roles at Shakespeare North Playhouse (as its first Creative Director), the National Theatre (Head of Studio), Battersea Arts Centre, and the Traverse Theatre.
“The Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse are iconic theatres which I have long admired, and to have the opportunity to join the Board at this exciting time is a real privilege,” said Collier. “I take the responsibility very seriously and am ambitious for the next creative chapter and look forward to playing my part in supporting these extraordinary and important theatres.”
Paul Maddock is a Director at international law firm DWF, specialising in commercial disputes and governance in contentious trust and probate matters. Highly regarded in the Legal 500, Paul is also the Chair of the Law Society of England and Wales’ LGBTQ+ Solicitors Network, championing diversity, equity and inclusion within the legal profession.
“As a long-time supporter of the Everyman and Playhouse theatres, and someone born and raised in Liverpool, I am delighted to be joining the Board,” Maddock shared. “I am a strong advocate of the importance of access to creative opportunities, therefore, I’m thrilled to be helping the Everyman and Playhouse move forward with the next stage of its strategic ambitions given its vital role in the cultural life of Liverpool and beyond.”
Liverpool and Merseyside Theatres Trust (LMTT) is the charitable organisation overseeing the Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, two of the city’s most iconic and culturally significant theatres. The Trust ensures the theatres are well-managed, legally compliant, and aligned with the strategic priorities of Arts Council England and Culture Liverpool—particularly in areas of ambition, inclusivity, quality and relevance.
On sharing the news, Chair of the Trust, Andrea Nixon, expressed her gratitude and optimism for the future:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Paul Bibby and Helen Blakeman for their leadership and dedication as Trustees—they’ve made a lasting impact. As we welcome Laura Collier and Paul Maddock, we’re excited to strengthen our board with fresh perspectives and continue our mission to champion bold, inclusive theatre at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural life.”
Next month the Trust will begin recruitment for a new Chair, as Andrea Nixon steps down at the end of her tenure in the role.
Details will be shared on the Everyman & Playhouse Theatres website here.
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Shakespeare North Playhouse – the award-winning theatre which opened in July 2022 in Prescot, Merseyside, is looking to secure a corporate naming rights partner to support the theatre’s ambitions over the next decade.
When secured, it is thought that this will be the first deal of its kind for an established regional theatre in the UK.
The partnership, which is likely to exceed £300,000 annually, will help to drive forward Shakespeare North and Knowsley Council’s vision for the Playhouse, Prescot and the wider borough. The deal will also help to secure the venue as a cultural asset for generations to come as funding for the arts continues to be challenging nationally. This innovative project provides a unique opportunity for a commercial sponsor to support a flagship arts organisation as it scales to become a cultural powerhouse in the North.
Shakespeare North is home to the only 17th-century style, timber-built “Cockpit” theatre outside London. Prescot in Knowsley was home to the first purpose-built theatre outside the capital during the Sixteenth Century. The £35m project is a living example of how arts, history, and community empowerment can reshape a region. It is central to Knowsley Council’s work to regenerate and grow the borough – one of the most deprived areas of the UK – and bring new opportunities and experiences to local people
Shakespeare North brings people together to participate in a unique programme of performances, activities and conversations, inspired by Shakespeare. Despite being less than 3 years old, it’s impact in communities is already being seen through regeneration, employment opportunities, raising aspirations and improving health and wellbeing.
Since opening, the theatre has welcomed over 300,000 visitors, 10% of whom had never set foot in a theatre before. It has won 34 awards including prestigious RIBA awards and Theatre building of the year 2023 (The Stage). The likes of Les Dennis, Steve Coogan, Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Johnny Vegas, Sue Johnston and Ricky Tomlinson and Stephen Graham have already appeared on stage in productions and events.
Partnerships through naming rights have the potential to be a significant part of the arts funding landscape and have existed within other sectors (in particular sport) for decades, helping to support financial sustainability for future generations. Cultural institutions welcome corporate sponsorship as part of a diverse funding model including public sector investment, earned income and other forms of philanthropic support. It is likely that this deal will mark a shift in Culture as part of the evolving story of arts funding in the UK
The project is being led by Cultural Capital Partners — a consultancy co-owned by Martin Prendergast and Elliot Willis, who secured a landmark £35.2 million naming rights deal for Aviva Studios in Manchester in 2023.
Lisa Allen, Chief Executive Officer and Creative Director, Shakespeare North Playhouse said:
“In keeping with our values, this is a bold and brave move for Shakespeare North which will ensure future sustainability for many years to come. We have ambitious plans to bring Shakespeare and theatre experiences to the broadest range of people as possible, including in communities across Knowsley and beyond. Naming rights will support our passionate belief that culture can change lives – allowing us to reach more people and continue to produce high quality, accessible art. We are so excited to be working towards securing this significant partner, who will align with our beliefs and values, and work with us to shape our next decade.”
Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England said:
“In just a few years, Shakespeare North has established itself as a creative powerhouse. It’s putting Prescot on the cultural map, developing deep and meaningful relationships with communities who live and work nearby. At the same time, it’s growing an impressive national reputation, occupying an important position in England’s cultural landscape as an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said:
“Shakespeare North has quickly become a cultural hub not only for Prescot, but for our entire city region. Because, quite simply, it’s so much more than just a theatre – it’s a catalyst for regeneration, education and opportunity.
In a short space of time it’s made and incredible impact on the local community and it’s my hope that it will continue to inspire, educate, and bring people together for generations to come.”
Visit the Shakespeare North Playhouse website here.
Find out the latest in Liverpool here.
Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide.
From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.
Merseyside Police have given an update on the Water Street incident which took place on Monday during the LFC Parade, and the man arrested at the scene.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Simms was joined by Sarah Hammond from the Crown Prosecution Service at a press conference which shared the latest information about the man arrested on Water Street on Monday.
Paul Doyle, 53, from West Derby with seven offences including dangerous driving, grievous bodily harm, dangerous driving and causing bodily harm with intent.
The full statement from Ass Chief Constable, Jenny Simms:
“I want to provide an update to you all during what has been a very challenging week. As always, our thoughts remain with all those injured and affected by the appalling incident that took place during the Liverpool Football Club Parade on Monday.
As you have heard from our CPS colleagues, the man arrested by Merseyside Police following the incident on Water Street has now been charged with seven serious offences.
Paul Desmond Sanders Doyle, 53 years, of Burghill Road, West Derby has this afternoon been charged with two counts of unlawful and malicious wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm; two counts of causing unlawful and malicious grievous bodily harm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm; two counts of attempted unlawful and malicious grievous bodily harm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, all contrary to Section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. He has been charged with one count of dangerous driving contrary to Section 2 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Doyle has been remanded into custody and will appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court in the morning.
I fully understand how this incident has left us all shocked and saddened, and I know many will continue to have concerns and questions.
Our detectives are working tirelessly, with diligence and professionalism, to seek the answers to all those questions. When we are able to, we will provide further information.
Merseyside Police is determined to gather as much evidence as possible to ensure that every avenue is explored.
Now that Paul Doyle has been charged, we ask that the judicial process be allowed to continue without any speculation online or elsewhere that could impede the pursuit of justice for all those affected.
A total of 79 people who were injured continue to be in contact with our officers and staff, and seven people remain in hospital, receiving the expert care of our NHS colleagues. I hope that all of those who were injured, or witnessed this terrible incident are able – given time – to heal and recover.
This continues to be a large and complex investigation and detectives are reviewing a huge volume of CCTV and mobile phone footage submitted by the public and businesses, as well as footage from our own body worn cameras and dashcams.
We are extremely grateful for the ongoing cooperation of the public who have, and continue to, share their footage and witness accounts with detectives. Their input is vital to our ongoing enquiries.
I would encourage anyone who has not yet contacted police who may have relevant information to please come forward and contact us.
Information, including video footage, can be passed to us via the Major Incident Police Portal, details of which are available on our Merseyside Police website.
As always, my thoughts remain with victims and everyone impacted.”
Sarah Hammond, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Mersey-Cheshire:
“The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Merseyside Police to charge Paul Doyle, 53 from West Derby, Liverpool, with dangerous driving, causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, wounding with intent to cause GBH and attempted GBH, following a complex and ongoing investigation into an incident in Water Street, Liverpool on Monday 26 May, 2025.
“The defendant will appear before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Friday 30 May, 2025.
“The investigation is at an early stage. Prosecutors and police are continuing to work at pace to review a huge volume of evidence.
“This includes multiple pieces of video footage and numerous witness statements. It is important to ensure every victim gets the justice they deserve.
“The charges will be kept under review as the investigation progresses.
“We know Monday’s shocking scenes reverberated around the city of Liverpool, and the entire country, on what should have been a day of celebration for hundreds of thousands of Liverpool FC supporters. Our thoughts remain with all those affected.
“Criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information or media online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.
“Please allow the legal process to take its course without undue speculation.”
Get the latest for Liverpool HERE.
The final girlfriend of Elvis Presley will be coming to Liverpool for the first time in June to share memories of their time together.
Ginger Alden was Elvis’ fiancée when he died in 1977. Despite the clamour for stories about the King of Rock and Roll after his death, she didn’t speak about him for 38 years.
It wasn’t until a decade ago that she decided to finally set the record straight and give her own personal account of their life and love story.
Now Ginger is coming to the British Music Experience on Liverpool’s waterfront for a Q&A evening on Monday June 2, revealing what it was like to be at Elvis’ side during his last few months.
It will be her first visit to the city, on the invitation of the Liverpool Elvis Presley Fan Club.
Neil Lancaster, who is branch leader of the fan club, says he saw Ginger at an event last year and felt Liverpool fans would like to hear things from her perspective.
He explains:
“Elvis died nearly 48 years ago and Ginger was 21 at the time. She was only with him for 10 months but she had a lot of experiences in that time.
“He was going through quite a difficult period and historians say he was always drugged up, but Ginger says although it was like that on occasion, it was mostly a happy time so she shapes things in a different way.
“Unlike everybody else who, once he passed away, jumped on the bandwagon with books and stories, she actually didn’t say anything for 38 years.
“She created a new life for herself, got married and had a son but unfortunately her second husband died on August 16, the same date as Elvis. When her husband died there were so many stories going around that weren’t true, she felt she had to answer those and she had time on her side to do it then.
“That was when she brought out her book, Elvis & Ginger.”
Although they didn’t have a long relationship, it was a case of love at first sight for the legendary singer.
“He was with another lady called Linda Thompson at the time they met,” says Neil. “He was having an event at his house Graceland and one of his guys invited Miss Tennessee. She asked if she could bring her sister along too, that was Ginger, and Elvis took a shine to her.
“She didn’t live in Graceland when they were together, she lived with her parents in Memphis, but she stayed there often and went on the road with him when he was touring the US. She was on his final tour.”
Neil says while interest in Elvis has remained huge over the decades since his death, it grew even further with the release of Baz Luhrmann’s film biopic starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks.
“I always want to get young people to listen to what Elvis did, for them to reinvigorate that type of rock and roll style, and I think that’s what the film did,” he adds. “The amount of Presley product out there at the moment, particularly with the growth of vinyl again, is massive.”
In fact there’s a scene towards the end of the movie which features Ginger.
“Elvis is playing the piano and singing Unchained Melody, he hits a note and turns around and smiles and he’s actually smiling at Ginger.”
As the last person to be close to him, Ginger is able to offer an exclusive personal look into his world and legacy, as well as sharing stories even diehard fans might be unaware of.
“I’ve heard her talking before and she has a great deal of humility,” says Neil. “I’ve spoken to lots of people who only know about Priscilla, none of the other women in Elvis’ life, but Ginger was the last one and she had the big diamond engagement ring.”
Find out more information about An Evening with Ginger Alden on the British Music Experience website.
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A Liverpool personal trainer who turned his own mental health struggles into a mission to help others is now opening a brand-new wellness hub in the heart of the Baltic Triangle.
Tom Simpson, 33, from West Derby, is the founder of Apex Liverpool, a popular fitness and wellbeing centre that first launched in Old Swan. Following the huge success of his kettlebell classes and growing demand for a holistic approach to fitness, Tom is now expanding Apex to a larger space on Brick Street, opening its doors on Monday 2nd June.
Tom’s journey to get here has been anything but ordinary. He started boxing at just 11 years old and went on to compete nationally for over a decade. After serving in the Royal Air Force as a fireman, he struggled with his mental health and decided to leave the military to pursue boxing professionally—while training clients on the side to make ends meet.
During this time, Tom says he “completely fell out of love with the sport” after facing several injuries.
He explained:
“Boxing was all I’d known and I felt like I’d completely lost my identity. Up until that point, the one constant passion in my life was being in the gym.”
During this time, Tom met renowned Liverpool entrepreneur and former MMA fighter Mark Scanlon, who later became his business partner in Apex Liverpool. Educating Tom on the importance of focusing on his mindset, Mark encouraged him to embrace this change of direction in both his career and life.
Tom continued:
“I started setting goals and improving my habits, and prioritised my personal development. I traveled the world for courses and education and became obsessed with self improvement.”
He created a gym in his parents’ garden through Covid, and once restrictions were lifted properly, opened the Apex Centre on Prescot Road. Following the overwhelming success of his signature kettlebell classes, Tom is now opening a bigger facility in The Baltic Triangle on Brick Street which will welcome its members from Monday 2nd June.
Tom said:
“This new facility is the culmination of all my life experiences; blending physical, mental, and spiritual training to help people lead strong, happy, and healthy lives in every aspect.
“Our gym will offer a variety of classes including kettlebells, women’s only classes, pilates, glutes, yoga, meditation, and breath work. Each month, we also will host group seminars where guest speakers will share their expertise on diverse topics.
“We will also provide lifting workshops for current and new members to build confidence with kettlebells, alongside meditation and emotional healing courses that aim to create mental peace, clarity, and resilience.
“Our members will also have exclusive access to a sauna and a cold plunge pool that they can book for personal use to help with recovery and relaxation.
“We’ve been working so hard behind the scenes to perfect the Apex Centre in The Baltic Triangle and we’re really excited to open our doors on Monday 2nd June, welcome our members and introduce the wider Liverpool community to our approach to physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing in the heart of the city centre.”
Mark Scanlon, co-owner of the Apex Centre, added:
“When I met Tom, I really believed in his potential as both a personal trainer and advocate for health and wellbeing. It’s been incredible to watch his journey unfold and how much he’s worked on his own mental health and personal development over the years.
“Tom has become a dear friend and business partner and I’m so proud of his success with the Apex Centre that started in Old Swan and is now expanding to a bigger facility in Liverpool’s thriving Baltic Triangle. The centre will bring together all facets of health under one roof; from dynamic classes to healthy food, a recovery room that members can access and monthly wellbeing workshops. If you wanted to focus on your overall well being – both body and mind – I’d encourage you to explore what the Apex Centre has to offer.”
The Apex Centre Liverpool has collaborated with Liverpool’s popular eatery Spitroast that’s renowned for its whole food approach. Spitroast will have its own coffee shop on site and has created an exclusive menu for Apex members that includes tasty and healthy breakfast dishes, snacks and a lunchtime menu as well as coffees and juices.
Memberships are £149 per month with an introductory offer of £99 for unlimited classes. Memberships can be purchased here.
Classes are held each day at 6am, 9.30am, 12pm and 6.30pm. The full timetable can be viewed on Apex’s website.
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The Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre looks set to close this Sunday – and manager Dave Bridson says there are only days left to save this vital piece of Liverpool history.
The Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre needs a £20,000 boost to give it a stay of execution and keep it safe for the next 12 months or, ideally, a ‘miracle’ sum of £275,000 to preserve its future once and for all.
Dave says:
“This is an important part of the city’s heritage that’s at risk, and I’m gutted to think it could be lost.
“Everyone here is shocked and deeply saddened that we could be forced to close.”
“I’m clinging on to hope.
“However likely closure is, I am still praying for a miracle and hoping that we can keep this place going.
“But I have to admit that time is running out.”
The heritage centre is devoted to preserving the legacy of philanthropist and tobacco merchant Joseph Williamson who created the brick-arched subterranean tunnels and chambers deep below the city’s streets.
An incredible underground world, it was discovered beneath Joseph Williamson’s former house on Mason Street, Edge Hill, and as well as tunnels you can see the dramatic banqueting hall and wine bins quarried out of the sandstone in the early 1800s.
The tunnels were gradually filled with rubble and remained largely inaccessible until archaeological investigations were carried out in 1995, and since then tours have been led and events held within the fascinating network system.
“The heritage centre was leased to the Joseph Williamson Society, a charity set up to run it, and access to the tunnels is part of the centre and was included in it,” explains Dave. “The freehold initially remained with the developers who bought it in the ‘90s from the council.
“Land above the tunnels has changed hands many times but even after various parts of The Old Stableyard on Smithdown Road, where the heritage centre is based, were sold off the centre had continued to operate on a peppercorn-lease for 25 years.
“But following the failed sale of the freehold after a further development was halted, a firm of property developers are now in control of the site.
“They have offered the society a new lease but are proposing a commercial rent of £20,000 a year that is beyond our means to pay. They have also offered to sell us the freehold but the asking price of £275,000 is also way beyond our reach.”
Without the finance to pay the new rent figure or buy the freehold The Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre will be forced to close, and with it the tunnels themselves.
An online fundraiser with an initial target of £12,000 has so far raised just under £3,500.
Dave says:
“We have been trying to find a solution and have been back and forth with talks, but we have been unsuccessful.
“We will close this Sunday, June 1, and have got until June 6 to remove our belongings and anything we want to save…unless we can find the money.
“This is the city’s heritage and it’s unique, and there are so many more tunnels to clear and who knows what we might find?
“I have worked at the centre for almost 25 years and hundreds of volunteers have given their time to give people an insight into this amazing world that was created below ground.
“We have tours for those interested in such a historical find and we are an educational resource for local schools who come, some year on year, because it fits in with the curriculum. Imagine the social history we can show to schoolchildren, the stoneware jam jars and bottles that have been found.
“There are other tunnels, but if the heritage centre closes all this is going to be lost.”
Dave goes on:
“We can only hope that someone in the city, perhaps another philanthropist like Joseph Williamson, can see the value of what we preserve and look after and help us to save it, or people can donate to the online fundraiser.
“I’m holding on to that hope because this is something that should not be allowed to go forever.
“We have only got days to save it – but I really hope we can.”
Help support the Williamson’s Tunnels fundraiser here.
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FACT Liverpool presents a new installation by artist Amartey Golding opening from Friday 23 May until Sunday 10 August 2025.
This new exhibition being held at FACT features a large chainmail sculpture, accompanied by an audio work, that has been created with imprisoned men at HMP Altcourse (Liverpool, UK). The intricate garment reflects their shared stories and explores themes of identity and societal behaviours. This solo exhibition marks the conclusion of Resolution, a multi-year project investigating how art can influence public attitudes and decision-making within the justice system.
Amartey Golding’s practice explores themes of masculinity, nationhood, violence, and vulnerability. Since 2023, he has worked with groups of imprisoned men at HMP Altcourse in Fazakerley, Liverpool. During sessions, Golding and the participants shared conversations and stories while weaving individual chainmail rings. Using these links, Golding has worked to create a large-scale chainmail suit, which is presented in FACT’s first-floor gallery following an initial display at HMP Altcourse.
Titled Chainmail 4: Silent Knight, the garment is the largest suit of armour in Golding’s ongoing Chainmail series, through which he explores what individuals do to protect themselves—and the cost of that protection. Weighing over 200 kilograms and constructed of more than 165,300 individual metal rings, the sculpture is reminiscent of a quilted duvet clutched tightly at the head, with only a minuscule gap from which to look out. The design further includes drawings produced by the men, intricately woven by Golding as symbols into the structure. The permanence of the chainmail holds deep meaning for the men, ensuring that their contributions will always be present and cannot be erased or removed.
In British culture, the image of a knight in shining armour evokes ideas of honour, class, service, violence, and sacrifice. In this work, Golding reimagines the suit of armour as a way to reflect on the tools many men use to navigate modern pressures and systems that preside over them. Within the gallery, a soundscape produced using popular songs creates a space for reflection, inviting visitors to sit with the work. Chainmail 4: Silent Knight explores relationships and separation, encouraging us to reflect on the complex realities faced by men, both personally and as part of society.
FACT has a long history of working with the justice system, with collaborations and commissions dating back over ten years. Since 2019, with support from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, FACT’s Learning team and Liverpool John Moores University have worked with artists Melanie Crean, Katrina Palmer, Ain Bailey, and Amartey Golding in prisons across Liverpool, Rochdale, and York on a project titled Resolution. Imprisoned people, staff members, and those who influence decision-makers were invited to participate. Each collaboration culminated in the commissioning of a new artwork, publicly presented in exhibitions at FACT in 2024 and 2025.
Resolution’s impact extends beyond the four major commissions, with resources, events, and documentation produced to amplify the project’s reach. Works by Melanie Crean and Katrina Palmer each culminated in new publications, and FACT released a series of audio podcasts and resources featuring many of the project’s participants and artists. FACT is also set to publish an online journal featuring texts by Dr. Emma Murray (Associate Professor of Criminal and Social Justice at the Centre for Equities in Uniformed Public Services at Anglia Ruskin University), Andrew Neilson (Director of Campaigns at the Howard League for Penal Reform), and Vid Simoniti (Senior Lecturer in Philosophy of Art at the University of Liverpool), among others.
Golding’s exhibition is accompanied by a series of free events, including tours, workshops, and panel discussions, to further explore the ideas within Chainmail 4: Silent Knight and reflect on the learnings of Resolution as a whole.
Amartey Golding, Artist, said:
“It’s been an honour working with FACT, and the men and staff of the prison, over the past years. This project will have a lasting Impact on me and my work and I hope the weight of this subject can be felt by all who come to see it and sit with it.”
For more information, head to the FACT website.
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A new exhibition at The Bombed Out Church, named ‘Perspectives’ showcases photography and writing by individuals who have experienced homelessness — but are not defined by it.
Presented by The Whitechapel Centre, Friends of Her’s CIC & The Bombed Out Church, it features photographs of Liverpool through a view of often overlooked perspectives. It also includes writing from the New Beginnings Men’s Creative Writing Group, giving voice to stories beyond the visual.
Created by the Whitechapel Centre’s Pathways and New Beginnings projects, the work was developed in photography sessions led by Tony Mallon (Digit in the Rib Photographic Art), and made possible with the support of Friends of Her’s.
Maria Ashes, of The Whitechapel Centre, has been closely involved in the exhibition, said:
“These images and words are not about homelessness; they are about perspective, creativity, and the power of seeing the world through a lens rarely given space. Creativity can be deeply empowering — a way to reclaim voice, agency, and connection. These works speak to the power of expression and the importance of being recognised beyond circumstance.”
The exhibition will be open at St Luke’s Bombed Out Church, Leece St, Liverpool, L1 2TR from Wednesday June 4th, 2025.
For more information, check out the Bombed Out Church’s website.
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PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” is heading to stages across the UK this Summer and coming to the M&S Bank Arena in July.
With the clock ticking, families won’t want to miss this action-packed, music-filled live show based on Nickelodeon’s beloved preschool series, PAW Patrol®.
Join Ryder and his heroic pups as they set sail on a thrilling pirate adventure to find a hidden treasure. With 39 performances nationwide, this PAWsome experience is just around the corner.
In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. Things get ruff when Mayor Humdinger wants to find the treasure first for Foggy Bottom.
The pups need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including help from the newest pup who’s all ears…Tracker! Using their heroic rescue skills, problem solving and teamwork, the pups set sail to save the day. No job is too big, no pirate pup is too small!
PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” is the perfect way for families to create lifelong memories and provides kids the opportunity to experience in-person theater. This highly interactive performance invites audiences to join the fun by learning pirate catchphrases, dancing the pirate boogie, and helping the pups solve picture puzzles and follow the treasure map to complete their mission.
Since its debut in the Autumn of 2016, PAW Patrol Live! has been seen by over 7 million people worldwide, providing fans in over 50+ countries with an unforgettable Broadway-style production.
PAW Patrol Live! is coming to the M&S Bank Arena on 19 July – get tickets here.
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A new emergency fund, the Liverpool Spirit Appeal, has been launched in response to the tragic incident that took place during the Liverpool FC victory parade on 26 May.
The Liverpool Spirit Appeal, created by the Community Foundation for Merseyside (CFM) in partnership with Liverpool Charity and Voluntary Services (LCVS) and supported by Liverpool City Council, will provide vital help to those affected—beginning with people identified by emergency services as needing hospital treatment or psychological support.
The incident saw a car drive into crowds on Water Street, injuring at least 65 people, including four children. As of Tuesday morning, 11 people remain in hospital.
To kick off the appeal, two long-standing supporters of the foundation—Jamie Carragher’s 23 Foundation and the Blue Sky Foundation—have each pledged £10,000, launching the fund with an initial £20,000.
Rae Brooke, chief executive of the Community Foundation for Merseyside, said:
“This incident has deeply shaken our city. The Liverpool Spirit Appeal is a way for us to turn our collective shock into meaningful support, especially for those dealing with serious physical and emotional trauma. We’re incredibly grateful to our donors for leading the way with such generous contributions.”
Sonia Bassey, chair of LCVS, added:
“Liverpool has always come together in times of crisis. We’re a city known for our resilience and compassion. Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and this appeal marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to supporting their recovery.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said:
“The horrific incident at the end of the Liverpool FC trophy parade shocked everyone to their core. We hope those injured make a full recovery, and that anyone affected gets the support they need. Liverpool is known for its strong community spirit, and this appeal is yet another example of how we rally together in tough times. A huge thank you to the Jamie Carragher 23 Foundation and Blue Sky Foundation for their incredible generosity.”
The appeal will not only support individuals directly affected, but will also provide funding to local charities offering trauma recovery, mental health services and community resilience projects.
To donate or find out more, visit their Just Giving page.
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A fund to help victims of the LFC parade tragedy has been launched by Humans of Liverpool creator Adam Thompson.
Adam, whose Instagram account has thousands of followers and tells the hidden stories of people in the city, has set up a GoFundMe appeal with a £5,500 target for LFC Parade victims.
Working with the Community Foundations for Merseyside charity (CFM) which helps local people in crisis – and supported Southport families affected by last summer’s horrific knife attack – he says the money will go to those who were physically and psychologically hurt in Monday’s shocking victory parade incident when a car ploughed into crowds of fans on Water Street.
“It was a day meant for joy and celebration which turned into something else entirely,” says Adam, who watched the LFC parade with a group of friends at Childwall Fiveways.
“When we heard about what had happened in town, like everyone else our hearts sank.
“Instantly you think about all those who were hurt, and the whole day being defined by that by those outside of the city.”
He adds: “Like everyone else, I was left shocked and heartbroken. This isn’t the kind of moment any of us ever expect. It’s shaken our city. And so straight away I started to think about how I could get involved in some way and use my platform to help.”
With misinformation rife – something the police swiftly and ‘thankfully addressed’ – he goes on: “Initially it was to put my thoughts out there and get people to spread love, not hate or misinformation.
“But I have a pre-existing relationship with GoFundMe from last year when the Southport attack happened and they asked me to share their hub with different fundraisers on it, and this time around, they asked if I would host the fundraiser.
“It was in unfortunate circumstances obviously, but also an honour and privilege that they trusted me with something like this.
“I made sure to gather information on how the money would be used before putting anything out. There are so many fundraisers; there’s a recession, and personal financial situations are pretty tough right now, so I wanted to make sure people know what their donations will go towards.”
Every donation of the Support LFC Parade Victims GoFundMe appeal will go to the victims through the Community Foundations for Merseyside who will work alongside Merseyside Police Family Liaison Officers and other emergency services to ensure that any support reaches those who need it most.
In the first instance, Adam says, it will prioritise people directly affected by the incident, who needed hospital or medical treatment, physically or psychologically.
Then, once any immediate needs are met, it will be directed towards community organisations in Liverpool working to rebuild and care for ‘our collective wellbeing’.
“This could include services offering emotional support, helping to co-ordinate local response, or creating ways for our communities to come together,” says Adam. “Depending on how much money is raised, it will go to supporting local charities and mental health services that are at an all-time low anyway and fighting to survive.”
He concludes: “What happened has also brought out something powerful: our need to stand together.
“If anyone’s ever been moved by a story on Humans of Liverpool where I share everyday stories of strength and connection across our city, I ask that they are a part of this one, and we can remind each other what Liverpool is really about, and that’s coming together when it matters most.
“Monday’s incident felt surreal. It was horrific. And now we hope that all the victims make a full recovery and that this doesn’t define the whole celebration.
“This is our chance to show those impacted that Liverpool, and the global community of LFC fans, looks after their own—not just in joy, but in pain too.”
You can donate here.
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Harrington Street has had a bit of a glow-up in recent years, and now there’s a brand new addition that’s just opened its doors right in the heart of the city – Harringtons.
Harringtons is the latest venue to launch in Liverpool city centre, tucked between Castle Street and North John Street. Spread across two floors, it’s the kind of place where you can go for after-work pints, weekend darts with your mates, or a proper night out with live music and dancing.
The building, once home to Italian restaurant Buca di Bacco, has undergone a big refurb since work started earlier this year. It’s now been transformed into a welcoming space that’s created 20 new full and part-time jobs in the local hospitality scene.
Upstairs, the vibe’s more traditional with a bar, plenty of seating, and live music every Friday and Saturday. Head downstairs and it’s all about the party – think DJs spinning funk, soul, motown and disco, plus a basement packed with three darts lanes and three pool tables (all free to use). There are big screens on both floors showing live sport too.
With its location just a stone’s throw from the business district and Liverpool ONE, Harringtons is spot on for everything from post-shopping cocktails to pre-dinner drinks before heading over to Castle Street.
There’s a big choice of draught beers on tap, including stouts and IPAs, plus a highlight for summer – frozen cocktails. Whether it’s a classic margarita or something more adventurous, they’re made to help you cool down on a sunny evening.
David Woods, general manager at Harringtons, said:
“This has been a long build because the site needed a lot of work, but we’ve had an amazing team behind it and the space looks brilliant. We’re buzzing to bring this building back to life, and opening Harringtons has helped create new jobs in the city centre.
It’s a really relaxed atmosphere across both floors, and we’ve already got some cracking live acts lined up for summer. If you’re into your funk, soul, motown and disco, this is definitely the place for you.”