Kate Reilly James

Blue is the colour

I teach Journalism in the heart of Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter. Nothing makes me happier than slipping out of the staff room at lunch to wander the cobbled streets, and day dream about living in one of those amazing houses. Especially in December, when they’re bestowed with baubles and wreaths. It’s like a scene from the original 101 Dalmatians animation.

The Georgian Quarter offers up so many visual gems. Hope Street is crowned at either end by an architectural delight. Not one, but two cathedrals. St. Brides Church is another personal favourite landmark, towering up from the pavement with it’s Parisian, Madeleine-esque columns. What I love most is the huge expanse of sky from Gambia Terrace, Hope Street, looking out to Liverpool Cathedral, especially on a clear day. Similarly, the wet paving stones on Percy Street offer up beautiful reflections after a downpour.

My lunchtime strolling had led to an accidental Twitter series of pictures. My Liverpool Blues features whatever I come across on my Georgian Quarter walks which includes a shade of blue. Usually it’s the sky, sometimes its a front door, railings, anything. I just always seem drawn to the colour and can’t resist taking a pic.

It’s not at all grim up north, sometimes you’ve just got to dig a little deeper, or take more time to appreciate what’s around you. What better time to invest in your surroundings that during lockdown 3.0? We’re allowed to get in some exercise outside with members of our own household, so why not charge your phone, pick a colour and see what looks good in your neighbourhood?

Send me your colours on Twitter, @katereillyjames and I’ll share the hell outta them.