Toxteth Riots
Riots are often sparked off by some deep seated social injustice. The Toxteth riots of 1981 emerged during a recession with high unemployment and deep rooted tensions between the local population and the police. These photographs were all taken around the time of the riots.
Slum clearance. Toxteth, Liverpool 1981 (Bishopsgate Institute Collection)
Slum clearance. Toxteth, Liverpool 1981 (Bishopsgate Institute Collection)
The photograph below was taken on Lodge Lane which was on the fringe of the areas affected by the riots. Immediately after the riots there was ‘saturation policing’ and an uneasy truce between locals and the police. I think the youths demeanour, as he keeps his distance, says a lot about how he regarded the police.
Lodge Lane. Liverpool 1981 (Bishopsgate Institute Collection)
I lived at 6 Lime Grove off Warwick street until August 1982, I can still smell the smoke from those riots I was12 yrs old!
I meant off Lodge Lane, moving there from Warwick Street near Caryl Gardens, pronounced Carl.
I went to Tiber St school.
Paul get in touch mate
I lived in L 8 growing up. It’s great to see these images and its also rare to read an accurate opinion on the causes of those riots!