Comment: Drive away the negative images

Jan 14 2008 Liverpool Daily Post

THE two events which kick- started Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture this weekend have been universally acclaimed a triumph.

Numbers far in excess of those predicted turned out to watch the spectacular launch party at St George’s Plateau on Friday night – headlined by Ringo Starr – while Saturday’s musical showcase at the new Echo Arena saw thousands of music lovers turn out to enjoy the second part of the celebrations.

Thanks to live television feeds, the events were watched by millions of people around the world, who would have seen the city and its people at their very best.

Unfortunately, however, there are some in the national media who cannot help but resort to tired old clichés when it comes to portraying the city, even though the evidence to the contrary is right in front of their eyes.

This includes highlighting, for example, the continuing problems with gun crime in Liverpool’s more deprived areas.

No one is attempting to gloss over the challenges which the city continues to face. But, in dwelling on such incidents, it shows some in the national media are determined to reinforce old stereotypes and cling to an image of the city that is at least 20 years out of date.

Of course, it will take more than this weekend’s spectacular opening event to shift the entrenched views that are now the default position of many London- based journalists and commentators when talking about the city.

This is where a year-long programme of events, such as the 350 taking place for Capital of Culture, can help to challenge attitudes and perceptions among those whose views of Liverpool have not changed since the Militant era.

That process began last weekend when the opening ceremony was carried off so spectacularly. It will continue throughout this year and beyond, with Capital of Culture providing a real platform on which to build.