June 21st 2010 - The Calder Stones

I took this photograph because it is the Summer Solstice today and these magical stones are Liverpool's answer to Stonehenge. The Calder Stones are prehistoric stones which have been a local landmark since the 16th century. The first reference to them was in 1568. The stones have been moved many times and they were arranged in a circle, which is still visible, at the entrance to the park. Their condition became a cause for concern due to pollution and in 1964 they were placed in the greenhouse pictured which was built to house them. Orginally, the stones probably formed part of a burial chamber covered by a large earthen mound. They are decorated with spiral markings and they also have representations of human feet. I feel they are waiting patiently for the day when they can return to the outdoors again and breathe the fresh air.

June 20th 2010 - Modou Toure - Africa Oye, Sefton Park

Today was a hot summer's day and, being Fathers' Day, my family treated me to a trip to Africa Oye at Sefton Park. The event is now in its ninth year and is absolutely brilliant. With all sorts of African food, cultural gifts, instruments and goodies on sale...but best of all was the music. This photograph is of Toure Kunda from Senegal. Their music is a take on traditional West African folk music. It was a truly relaxing and enjoyable event.

June 19th 2010 - International Tennis At Calderstones

The final day at Calderstones Park for the international tennis tournament. Playing this year was the tennis legend John McEnroe. A photograph through the trees of the spectators enjoying the tennis. Best viewed magnified - this was the closest you could get without one of the much sought after tickets!

June 18th 2010 - Happy Birthday Macca

Today is Sir Paul McCartney's 68th birthday. This is the house at 20, Forthlin Avenue, Allerton, where Paul McCartney lived for several years and which is now owned by the National Trust, since 1995. A friend of the family once lived there for a short time, looking after the property for the National Trust. Being a skint student he decided to check the attic for any valuable items that Paul might have left behind. Needless to say he found nothing, but he left behind his own mark by putting his foot through Paul's bedroom ceiling. A quick repair job was required before the National Trust inspected the property the following week. Allegedly, of course! No blue plaque yet - apparently you have to be dead for 20 years before English Heritage considers putting one up and Macca's still going strong!

June 17th 2010 - Calderstones Newt Lake

A picture of the lake in Calderstones Park. A lake full of wildlife including Great Crested Newts. I was on my way to take a photograph of the tennis tournment but this caught my eye. I shall return to the tennis on Saturday.

June 16th 2010 - Come On England

The Mechanical Engineering Department at Liverpool University is showing its support for England in the World Cup Finals. This photograph was taken at about 10.30pm this evening and it was still light. A beautiful sunset over the Mersey - another perfect end to the day.

June 15th 2010 - Lime Street Railway Station

The newly renovated Lime Street Station is a long overdue welcome to the centre of the city. The awful 1960's Concourse House development blocked the entire frontage of the station (although there used to be a very good photo processing shop just on the corner, the three members of staff were very helpful and highly skilled). An end to a beautiful day with the vivid blue sky framing Lime Street's arched roof.