Toxteth, or L8, is a historic neighbourhood in Merseyside that has undergone numerous transformations over time. It rose up against the establishment in 1981 and in 2023 the multi-cultural melting pot was named one of the best places to live in the UK.
Filled with a dynamic community and boasting a huge amount of history and culture, here, we’ve compiled a list of famous faces hailing from Toxteth, ranging from accomplished footballers to esteemed actors and musicians.
5. Nikita Parris
Euro 2022 winning Lioness Nikita Parris was born in Toxteth, and takes immense pride in her local roots and often made surprise visits to schools in the neighbourhood to inspire children. Growing up in a football crazy region meant that Parris was a keen Liverpool fan and began playing the sport herself at just six-years-old. She now plays as a forward for Women’s Super League club Manchester United and the England national team. Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images
6. Gerry Marsden
The legendary musician and frontman of Gerry and the Pacemakers, left a mark on the music industry. Born in Toxteth, Marsden and his group had one of the best starts of all the Merseybeat groups of the 1960s, with their first three songs all hitting number one in the charts, a record which stood for over two decades. Since then, Gerry remained close to his roots, becoming an admired supporter for his home city and a welcome supporter of many local, national and international charities. He died in 2021 but his songs like You'll Never Walk Alone and Ferry Cross the Mersey will last forever. Photo: Getty Images
7. John Conteh
Renowned as a professional boxer and former world champion, John established his talent in the ring, embarking on his journey at the age of 10 when he joined the Kirkby Amateur Boxing Club. He held the WBC light-heavyweight title from 1974 to 1977, and regionally the European, British and Commonwealth titles between 1973 and 1974. Photo: Tony Duffy, Getty Images
8. Holly Johnson
The iconic singer-songwriter was propelled to fame as the frontman of Frankie Goes to Hollywood, who produced hits like Relax, Two Tribes and The Power of Love. Johnson became a symbol of the 1980s music scene and also reformed the band for the opening ceremony of Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool. Photo: Getty Images