May 14th 2010 - Light Night

Il mattino ha l'oro in bocca? Artist Filip Gillissen's installation launched the 2010 International Liverpool Biennial. The walk through the thick mass of golden tinsel was for one night only and it proved to be a very sensory experience... but I feel the real art on display tonight were the people queueing to see the exhibit.

May 13th 2010 - Speke Old Airport

A grey and overcast afternoon. This a DH89 Rapide which started flying from Speke airport in June 1930. Liverpool airport was opened on July 1st 1933. During World War II the airport was requistioned by the Government, who mainly used it for building and testing war planes imported from America. In 1986 airport services were transfered to the new airport, and the buildings went into disrepair; until more recent times when it was turned into a swanky hotel.

May 12th 2010 - Pillbox At Springwood Avenue

I have passed this wartime pillbox many times and never paid much attention to it. A bit of research shows it was put in this peaceful location at Clarke's Gardens to defend against any potential attack of Garston docks, and to also protect the railway lines at Hunts Cross from advancing Nazis. A small reminder of what often seems inconceivable to the younger generation.

May 11th 2010 - Penny Lane

Back to the Penny Lane sign saga! I tried to get a photograph from when our, now new, Deputy Prime Minister signed the Penny Lane sign (see last month), but the gates are still locked. I went back to old faithful, which has a few subtle changes. Get down there with your pens and become a piece of Paulo history (book is being published at the end of the year)...not that I'm advocating graffitti, you understand!

May 10th 2010 - Picnic In Calderstones

I took an early morning walk in Calderstones Park and the blossom trees in the picnic area were absolutely beautiful, leaving a carpet of petals around each tree. The blossom seems to be late this year, or maybe it's just my imagination.

May 9th 2010 - Court Hey Park - National Wildflower Centre

I took this photograph of the stables at the National Wildflower Centre after having a delicious Sunday lunch at their wonderful cafe. The grounds were acquired by Robert Gladstone, who was the eldest brother of the four times British Prime Minister William Gladstone. He built the mansion house, Court Hey Hall, in 1836. During the second world war the Ministry Of Agriculture Fishieries And Foods requisitioned the stables as a quarantine station. Amongst the animals quarantined were Chipperfields Circus' camels and lamas.

May 8th 2010 - Sunburst Gates - Toxteth
These Sunburst gates are situated at the entrance to Princes Park, Toxteth. The gates represent the sun and its rays, designed by Sir James Pennethorne. The gates have recently been restored to their former glory, and they really shine out and give you a piece of sunshine no matter what the weather.