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Liverpool’s 18th
Mathew Street Festival,
2010
DESPITE a the poor weather start, crowds still turned out on
Sunday, 29 August 2010, to Liverpool’s annual Mathew Street Festival
and were then rewarded by bright sunshine, which continued
throughout the day and through the Monday Bank Holiday, 30 August
2010 with record numbers attending. There was a feast of
entertainment, as the powerful throb of lively music boomed across
the city from seven large stages and also from pubs, clubs and other
venues, not least from the renowned Cavern Club, and other places in
Mathew Street and surrounding areas. Many tribute bands played their
hearts out to responsive audiences and a few of the genuine 60’s era
veterans still wooed their fans. On Sunday, Billy J Kramer reminded
folk of the heyday of Liverpool’s lead in pop music, and on Monday,
Beryl Marsden continued with her great offerings. However, on the
Williamson Square stage, lots of promising up and coming acts
performed, which proves that the great tradition has not been lost.
Also, across the area were a variety of buskers and street
entertainers, all contributing to the atmosphere. Living ‘statues’
startled the unwary when they moved and unusual sights, such as
someone playing a ‘hang’, an instrument, which somewhat resembled a
flying saucer. A number of people had taken to fancy dress,
including two bubbly ladies using the day to collect for a
children’s charity. Throughout the day, the masses continued to
build, but the atmosphere on Sunday, remained friendly and up- beat,
even in the most congested areas. This was the prevailing mood on
Monday too, marred only by a tiny minority of mindless idiots who
chose to aim bottles and other missiles at the stage by the Tunnel.
What a shame that such a few can spoil the enjoyment of the
majority. If anyone has real information, don’t forget
Crime-stoppers, the Police would be very interested. Away from these
irritating nuisances people went about their ways participating in
the fun; dancing and singing along picnicking in the park, and
relaxing in the warm sunshine. The security staff and the police,
whilst maintaining vigilance, were a benign and helpful presence
overall for the vast majority of law abiding visitors. Also working
energetically were the friendly army of street cleaners and staff
who patrolled the sanitation facilities and other amenities who
deserve our thanks too. Without them life would be far less
comfortable! St John and other emergency services were also playing
their vital role, largely unnoticed until a problem arose. There are
a multitude of other more obvious individuals to whom
congratulations are due; performers, managers and ancillary staff
who must have worked hard to achieve yet another great festival.
Probably the whole experience, if you were unfortunate enough to
have missed it, we can best convey to you by our pictures. If you
were there, we hope they revive happy memories! Here’s to next year.
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