Liverpool remembers John Lennon with services and balloons

Dec 8, 2005, 16:34 GMT

London - John Lennon's home town of Liverpool in northern Britain Thursday remembered its greatest son with hundreds of balloons and messages sent into the sky over the port's Albert Dock.

More than 1,000 messages were attached to the white balloons released to mark the 25th anniversary of Lennon's murder in New York.

Liverpool, which already has a museum, a statue and an airport dedicated to Lennon, is the home town of all four Beatles.

James Andrews, aged 9, one of the youngest fans, said: 'I just wrote 'Merry Christmas John' on my balloon. I love The Beatles and especially John Lennon.'

Other messages read: 'Looking around at all that's happening in the world today we need his voice now more than ever!'

A short service was held at John Lennon's statue in Matthew Street in Liverpool, the home of the world famous Cavern Club where The Beatles first played.

Other events taking place in the city included a memorial service at Liverpool Parish Church.

Children from a deaf school were taking part in a performance of Beatles songs in sign language in the city centre, and Lennon's image was being projected onto a large tunnel ventilation shaft.

Liverpool's Lord Mayor, Councillor Alan Dean, said: 'His influence on his and future generations is immense. Few people in his position used their fame to stand up against injustices and to spread the message of love and peace in the way he did.'