From beyond

Aug 26 2008 Mr Brocklebank, Liverpool Daily Post

IN THE flurry of network television programmes about Liverpool during its Capital of Culture year, many of the usual suspects have been already used as presenters.

Undaunted, the latest effort by an independent production company enquired if the Daily Post had any suggestions regarding forthright personalities suitable for this role. When a programme researcher was asked who was already on the list so far, the entirely serious reply came: "Well, there’s Kenny Everett".

Doubtless, he would be deeply flattered if he had not died 13 years ago. When Dame Beryl Bainbridge was suggested as a substitute, the name of Crosby’s greatest living novelist was greeted with: "Who’s she?"

Whatever the outcome, Mr Brocklebank is sure, in the words of one of Kenny’s most famous characters, it’ll all be done "in the best PAH-SIBBLE taste."

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UNBOWED after being verbally mauled for his temerity in questioning Maghull Development’s radical plans for Hope Street, Liverpool guide Philip Coppell has launched into a spirited defence of the city in a national newspaper against a more terrifying adversary force – former Liverpool Institute old girl Edwina Currie.

He disputed her claim that Liverpool’s successful higher education sector fails to retain students, as in reality 25% stay on to work here.

He thunders: "I find it a bit rich of Edwina Currie, who left Liverpool 40 years ago, to give us the benefit of her advice about the city." Attaboy!

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WITH the demolition of buildings along the frontage of Liverpool Lime Street station to "create a gateway worthy of the city", how come a colossal, flashing digital advertising hoarding was erected opposite the main entrance? Initially, when the rather funky framework was first erected, Mr Brocklebank applauded this cover-up of St John’s car park, but now, apart from its grotesque vulgarity, it hugely compromises the view of St George’s Hall.

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MEANTIME, inside the station, owner Network Rail is obviously having problems coming to terms with this great railway edifice becoming a tourist attraction. With the highly successful season of steam train excursions organised by Liverpool Daily Post and National Museums, Network Rail has erected threatening notices instructing spectators to behave or else.

Worst still, a Daily Post photographer, invited to film the steam train by operator Railway Touring Company, was ejected by station officials for not having permission – although he carried his letter of invitation.

Other people photographing the train were not subject to this humiliation. Fact: a station frequented by the public is, by legal definition, a public place and a press photographer is entitled to use his camera there, whether permission is given or not.