THE Rector of Liverpool last night gave his firm support for the Daily Post’s Get On Board campaign to let cruises start and finish in the city.

The Rev Steven Brookes is incumbent of Liverpool parish church, Our Lady & St Nicholas, which is also the seamen’s church, appropriately overlooking the River Mersey.

His endorsement means the campaign now has the backing of an array of notable people across the church, politics and entertainment, including Chancellor George Osborne MP and opera star Lesley Garrett.

Rev Brookes said: “I feel very strongly that Liverpool should be making a bid to become a cruise turnaround port again. This church has lengthy connections with Liverpool’s seafaring community, with many memorials and special services.

“Also, the church was the landmark for seafarers sighting Liverpool before the Royal Liver and other major Pier Head buildings were constructed. From this church, you can see the city’s regeneration with the new canal, smart hotels and vibrant attractions.

“The one thing missing from this great port city is a cruise liner turnaround berth, so people can start and end their cruises here.

“Liverpool, once the greatest passenger ship port, has allowed its liner facilities to lapse and Southampton has taken over. Here at the church we see thousands of people getting off liners making cruise calls at the Pier Head. Even if we don’t know a liner is in, we recognise the fact as so many passengers call in at this church, as we know from our staff and visitor books.