Danny Gutmann

Victor and Paula Ashley have lived in Park Lodge, a Grade II-listed home between Sefton Park and Princes Park in Liverpool, since buying it for £400,000 in 2003. They built the funds through property investment after starting with modest incomes and selling much of their portfolio. The house retains historic features including mud-and-wattle construction, a hidden door and period interiors, and is believed to have originated as King John’s hunting lodge in 1207. The Ashleys regard themselves as custodians and hope their sons Luke and Greg will eventually take over the property.

Humanitarian aid worker Anna Fraine from Hoylake describes the impact of working in conflict and disaster zones, including sheltering during a major attack in Kyiv and helping displaced Ukrainians access shelter, food, protection and medication. Her earlier experience in South Sudan, where communities lacked basic necessities such as clean water, shaped her decision to pursue a career in humanitarian response. Fraine says these experiences have given her a new perspective on safety and stability in wealthy countries. The article also marks the 60th anniversary of the Disasters Emergency Committee, which has raised more than £2 billion for humanitarian crises since its first appeal following the 1966 earthquake in Varto, Turkey.

Nile Rodgers and Chic opened their Salt and Tar festival performance in Bootle with hits including “Le Freak” and “Everybody Dance,” alongside covers associated with David Bowie and Madonna. The most emotional moment came when Rodgers introduced “Thinking of You,” written and co-produced with his late Chic partner Bernard Edwards, and became tearful while recalling Edwards’ death from pneumonia in 1996. The concert also featured support from Brooke Combe, whose Northern Soul-inspired material was well received.

Phil Jones and his sister Lesley discovered a handwritten account by their great-grandmother, Florence Walters, while sorting through their late mother Barbara’s belongings in Formby. Written about the December 21, 1940 bombing of Seaforth during Liverpool’s Christmas Blitz, the account describes bomb damage, fear, and Walters helping evacuees reach a makeshift hospital. The document gave the family a vivid sense of how close their relatives came to death and highlighted a tradition of community service passed through the generations. Liverpool suffered some of the most intense bombing outside London, with widespread damage to homes, docks, and residential streets.

Exchange Court in Liverpool still bears shrapnel damage from the Blitz, when German bombing raids targeted Merseyside between 1940 and 1942. About 2,700 people died in Liverpool, with hundreds more killed in Birkenhead, Bootle and Wallasey. Local historian Ken Pye explains that the scars were left unrepaired after the war because they did not threaten the building’s structural integrity and repairs were unaffordable. He views the damaged brickwork as an unintended memorial to the civilians who died.

A 5 May 1977 performance by The Clash at Liverpool's Eric's club is remembered as a pivotal moment in the city's music scene. The Destroyers guitarist Ian Barry recalls the intense, communal energy of the concert, which reportedly inspired attendees including Pete Wylie, Julian Cope and Ian McCulloch to form bands. The event later became associated with Liverpool's emergence as a major source of post-punk talent, while The Clash went on to achieve international success and The Destroyers eventually disbanded.

Professor Arthur Sun Myint, a 78-year-old oncologist at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, was inspired by a patient who refused life-changing rectal-cancer surgery because it would require a permanent stoma. He introduced Papillon therapy, a targeted form of radiation that can treat bowel tumours while preserving the rectum. Since its introduction at Clatterbridge in 1993, more than 3,000 patients have received the treatment, with the hospital estimating that about 80% were cured. Myint continues to work and paints portraits in his spare time.

Sefton Sixth Form College student Abdulaziz Alkidra achieved AAB in his A-levels and secured a place to study medicine at Hull York Medical School. The achievement carries particular significance because his family is from Gaza and he has lost numerous cousins during the ongoing conflict; he hopes his results will bring them some joy. Fellow students Manuela Bolivar Perez and Lucas McNamara also achieved excellent grades, gaining places at the University of Sheffield and University of Liverpool respectively. Hugh Baird College reported a 100% pass rate for T-levels, a 94.5% pass rate for Level 3 and equivalent courses, and perfect pass rates in 11 subject areas.

Prescot Road in Old Swan has changed from a bustling traditional high street filled with butchers, bakeries, fishmongers and greengrocers into a more mixed commercial area dominated partly by takeaways and barber shops. Remaining businesses, including Liverpool Meat and Fish Market, Sri Lankan grocery store PRM Phothihai, Savco, and family-run shops The Blind Spot and Price Right Carpets, are helping sustain the community. Traders highlight the area's growing cultural diversity and commercial opportunities, while recalling the former 20-acre fruit and vegetable market and warning that rising rents and business rates are putting pressure on local enterprises.

A man in his 30s remains in critical condition after being assaulted by a group of up to six males outside a takeaway on Park Road in Dingle. Merseyside Police arrested a 16-year-old from Wavertree and a 14-year-old from Dingle on suspicion of grievous bodily harm or wounding with intent. Officers seized an electric bike believed to have been used in the assault and are conducting CCTV and forensic inquiries while appealing for witnesses and footage.

A photo-led feature explores 10 Percy Street in Liverpool's Georgian Quarter, a Grade II* listed property with views of Liverpool Cathedral. Vincent O'Neill bought the neglected house in 1974 despite friends calling the decision mad, then spent more than two decades restoring it with his wife Susan. The home retains historic features including stained glass, ornate fireplaces and a traditional door knocker, and is now regarded as one of the city's most desirable residences.

Hundreds of fans queued around Liverpool's Renshaw Street to attend a meet-and-greet with local rapper Mazza L20 at independent streetwear and trainer shop Block P. Attendees, including visitors from Blackburn and local children, described Mazza as an inspiration. Owners Sam Byrne and Charlie McDonough said they invited him after seeing his call for a Liverpool pop-up, viewing the event as a link between local music, fashion and community culture.

James Diggle, 27, appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court charged with four counts of aiding and abetting causing death by dangerous driving following a crash on East Prescot Road in Huyton on July 24. The crash killed Jack Diggle, Benjamin Dooley, Andrew Roberts and Craig Shackleton-Brady. James Diggle did not enter a plea, was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on September 7. Merseyside Police urged the public not to speculate online while criminal proceedings are active.

Svara Radio, founded in Liverpool in 2021 by Mark Owens and Josh Wilson, is providing an alternative to mainstream radio by giving local DJs and musicians airtime. Based in the Baltic Triangle, the grassroots station has expanded through partnerships and events, helping DJs secure work with major brands and festivals. Owens now plans to develop Svara into a traditional day-to-night radio station and establish it as an independent voice for Liverpool.

Widnes counsellor and author Kirstie Atherton describes how a 3am epiphany in 2020 prompted her to become a funeral and wedding celebrant. She later founded Dead Positive CIC, which supports people planning funerals, provides end-of-life and bereavement services, and runs peer-led bereavement cafés. Atherton says the work is emotionally demanding but deeply meaningful, and aims to replace the stigma and solemnity surrounding death with acceptance and open discussion.

Residents on several Kirkdale streets in Liverpool report worsening problems with rats, fly-tipping, overgrown vegetation and unsafe green spaces. They say the neglected conditions create fire hazards, affect children’s wellbeing and make pavements dangerous, while also reflecting a decline in community upkeep. Liverpool City Council says communal bins are emptied every other day, fly-tipping is investigated, rat baiting has been carried out and additional pest-control work is planned; it will also inspect the green space beside Ruskin Street and improve communal waste storage.

Mason Matthews says pigeon droppings, flies and mites have made his West Derby flat difficult to live in and harmed his mental health. He claims Riverside Housing failed to respond adequately after he reported the infestation, while Rentokil allegedly missed an arranged visit. Riverside apologised for the delay and communication problems, saying Rentokil had inspected the property and that remedial work was scheduled within two weeks.

Jamaica Street in Liverpool has evolved from an industrial and largely derelict area into a popular destination for eating, drinking, shopping and creative activity. Local business owners Mark Hayes, Alison Johnson and Graham Clooney describe how independent artists, studios and retailers helped establish its identity, while Baltic Creative CIC, founded in 2009 and led by Lynn Haime, is credited with driving broader regeneration. The street now combines creative businesses, cultural activity, nightlife and tourism, although its character continues to change as the area grows.

At 88, Liverpool-born poet Roger McGough reflects on how poetry helped him process his father's death, understand mortality and record major stages of his life, including becoming a father and grandfather. He discusses his rise from the Liverpool arts scene alongside Brian Patten and Adrian Henri, the success of The Mersey Sound, and his continuing commitment to accessible poetry rooted in everyday Liverpool life. McGough says Christopher Logue's politically engaged poetry at the University of Hull helped him see that poems could address war, politics and ordinary experience without relying on traditional forms.

A surviving tunnel entrance on Riverside Drive is one of the last visible remnants of Liverpool’s Overhead Railway, known as the Dockers’ Umbrella. Local historian Ken Pye explains how the railway’s southern extension connected Dingle residents, dockers, seafarers and city workers to Liverpool’s wider network from the late 1890s until its closure in the 1950s. Despite repeated wartime bombing, the railway was rapidly rebuilt because of its importance, but its closure left a lasting sense of loss and removed what Pye believes would now be a major tourist attraction.

Ben Dooley, 23, was one of four men killed when a car crashed on Liverpool Road in Huyton on July 24. His sister Demi described him as her only sibling and a deeply caring person who loved football, padel and darts and studied sports psychology. Hundreds of people left messages of condolence for Ben and the families of the other victims.

Thousands of people attended Liverpool Pride 2026, taking part in an official march from Clayton Square and celebrations across Liverpool city centre. Street parties were held at venues in the Pride Quarter, while other festivities took place at the Albert Dock, bars and pubs. Liverpool Tritons RUFC, the Katumba drumming band, influencer Zac Daily and television contestant Margaret Oakley were among those featured, with photographs highlighting the colourful outfits and atmosphere.

Ben Dooley, a 23-year-old sports psychology student, was one of four men killed when a black Cupra crashed into a lamppost on Liverpool Road in Huyton. His family and friends described him as kind, caring and the heart of the family, paying tribute to his love of sport, festivals and time with loved ones. A 27-year-old passenger survived and was taken to hospital in stable condition.

Ingrid Spiegl describes life in 4 Windermere Terrace, a Grade-II listed home beside Liverpool’s Princes Park that was built in the 1860s and retains significant historic and architectural features. The property was remodelled in an Art Deco style by coal ship owner Leslie Glynn May in the 1930s, while Spiegl has made later decorative and maintenance changes while viewing herself as its custodian. The house has also served as a filming location, including for Agatha Christie’s The Witness for the Prosecution, and was once the home of musician Fritz Spiegl, who performed with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Small independent businesses and a local charity on Townsend Lane in Anfield continue to maintain a strong sense of community despite long‑term decline in traditional high‑street shops and increasing social deprivation. The Scranary café, Mio's Supermarket and the Hope Foundation all support residents through affordability efforts, personal relationships and assistance with housing, financial struggles and the cost‑of‑living pressures.

Keyside frontman Dani-Lee Parker describes how childhood loneliness and instability shaped his songwriting and contributed to the band’s rising prominence in Liverpool’s music scene. Drawing inspiration from early musical influences and the cultural character of the city, he aims to create music that offers listeners the same sense of understanding he once sought. The band, already achieving major milestones including a sold-out UK tour, embraces Liverpool’s musical heritage while forging its own identity.

Peter Moore expresses pride in his Liverpool roots and rejects long‑standing stereotypes about Scousers while reflecting on his upbringing and global career. Returning to the city to receive an honorary degree, he highlights how Liverpool’s culture and resilience shaped him despite decades spent in the US. Moore recounts his path from teaching to major corporate roles and ultimately to becoming Liverpool FC CEO, marking a period of major club success. He and his wife Debbie continue supporting local causes and have launched a University of Liverpool scholarship to benefit local students.

Ben Harper, a young producer from Halewood, is helping shape Liverpool’s growing music scene, working with emerging bands such as Keyside, Kairos and The Mysterines. After developing an interest in music through friends and studying at LIPA, he moved from performing to production, gaining key experience while working on The Mysterines’ early material. Harper describes the creative satisfaction of producing standout tracks and believes Liverpool now has more high‑quality bands than ever. Reflecting on his own challenges entering the industry, he encourages aspiring musicians and producers to work hard, connect with peers and stay active in the local scene.

A long-serving teacher, Lisa Turpin, is retiring from St Bede's Catholic High School after 34 years, having become well known in Ormskirk for her work with generations of students. Headteacher Dan Morgan credited her with transforming the school’s careers education, ensuring all students leave with a clear path into work, apprenticeships or further study. Former students regularly return to speak with current pupils due to her ongoing influence. Colleagues view her as a vital source of support within the school community, and her departure is expected to leave a significant gap.

Hospitality workers in Liverpool commonly use numeric codes to communicate quickly without disturbing customers, a practice described by restaurant staff member Niall Doolan. Codes such as 86 for items that have run out, 68 for restocked items, 900 for drinks ready to serve, and others for seating, toilet breaks and cigarette breaks help maintain efficient service during busy periods. Some codes trace back to theories from the US Prohibition era, including the origin story of 86. The system is used across bars and restaurants to streamline workflow and reduce disruption.

May Pang recounts her 18‑month relationship with John Lennon during his so‑called Lost Weekend, describing his brief interest in reuniting creatively with Paul McCartney and revealing that Yoko Ono suggested the relationship during a difficult period in her own marriage. She shares memories of their life in New York and Los Angeles, encounters with major celebrities and Lennon’s fascination with emerging cable television. Reflecting on Lennon’s ideals, she believes he would be deeply disappointed by the state of the world today given his lifelong focus on peace.

Thelo Aasgaard’s parents describe how a disciplined musical household helped build the mindset behind his rise from Mossley Hill and Liverpool FC’s youth system to representing Norway in the World Cup. They liken the repetitive, focused practice of cello performance to the footballer’s technical development and emphasize his creativity on the pitch. His recent goal against France created emotional scenes for his mixed-nationality family. As Norway prepares to face England in the quarter-final, his parents continue offering support while leaving match preparation to him.

Halewood Apollo FC, once close to folding, has secured a landmark partnership with AC Milan following rapid growth from a small local team to a semi-professional club with 50 youth teams. AC Milan aims to expand its presence in the UK while supporting football access in a deprived area, praising Halewood Apollo’s community-focused approach. The partnership will include coaching camps in the UK and player experiences in Milan. Club chairman Joseph Stocks highlighted both the struggles the club overcame and the ambition to continue growing beyond this milestone.

A 21‑year‑old student from Bebington describes how loneliness during university led to months of deteriorating mental health and several breakdowns before support from friends and family helped him recover. Committing to return to football and seeking ways to help others, he discovered the UK Men's Sheds Association and is undertaking a long‑distance charity bike ride to raise awareness of male loneliness and encourage others to seek support.

Residents near the disused IM Marsh campus report escalating anti‑social behaviour involving youths trespassing, damaging property and creating safety risks. Locals describe frequent disturbances, smashed windows and concerns for both their own safety and that of the intruders. Liverpool John Moores University has increased security with patrols, cameras and rapid‑response measures, while Merseyside Police is working with the community and local partners to prevent further incidents and identify those responsible.

The Jacaranda’s turnaround from financial decline and closure in 2013 to becoming one of Liverpool’s key grassroots music venues is credited to managing director Graham Stanley, who relaunched it in 2014 with a mission to support emerging artists. The venue has since hosted major acts including the Kaiser Chiefs and rising stars such as Olivia Dean and Maisie Peters, while continuing to nurture local talent through open mic sessions and early-stage performances. Under Stanley’s leadership, the business expanded with a record store, a second venue, and branded events in other cities, aiming to remain a creative hub for musicians and a launchpad for future success.

Liverpool’s Otterspool Festival Gardens and Sefton Park are experiencing persistent vandalism and littering, including damage to structures, stolen plants and widespread rubbish during warmer months. Volunteers from local community groups report long-standing issues and significant amounts of intentionally dropped litter. Liverpool City Council outlined ongoing investments to upgrade play areas, repair infrastructure and expand maintenance teams, while urging the public to report vandalism. Additional funding from the Labour Government has enabled the creation of new jobs and further park refurbishments across the city.

Vasily Petrenko reflects on nearly two decades with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, emphasizing his commitment to making classical music accessible and integrated into the community. He highlights initiatives such as providing free concert access to schoolchildren and notes increasing audience engagement as a major achievement. Though now based largely abroad, he describes Liverpool as a second home and draws parallels between conducting and football management. Petrenko will return to Liverpool on 9 July for the White Nights performance.