Birkenhead

Hometown of the popular comedian and television presenter Paul O'Grady (also known as Lilly Savage), Birkenhead is situated on the west bank of the River Mersey in the North East of England, directly opposite Liverpool. The town is a seaport and is best known for shipbuilding and related industries and has a distinctly Welsh influence since it grew considerably in the 19th century from the migration of Welsh immigrants into the town. Birkenhead was formerly home to The Argyle Theatre, which is also a music hall, and which opened in 1968 becoming host to very prestigious performers.

It has been suggested that the name Birkenhead may be derived from the Old English word bircen meaning birch tree, since there were once many on the riverside. However, the name may also come from the name of the River Birket on which the town is also located.

In 1871 Birkenhead became home to the first public school outside of London, Which was donated to the town by John Laird and so became The Laird School of Art. Visitors to the area might also find interest in The Williamson Art Gallery, which holds a collection of paintings and pottery. The town is home to a number of professional an amateur football clubs and also offers a number of popular cycling routes with associated clubs. The town has produced a number of Olympic cyclists including Chris Boardman, Mark Bell, Steve Cummings and Rachel Heal.

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