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.
9. Laurence Westgaph
Political activist and television presenter, Laurence Westgaph, specialises in Black British history and runs regular walking tours where you can find out about Liverpool’s slavery history. Growing up in the inner city area of Toxteth and during his early career as a model, invested his earnings in property in the deprived area. He also submitted a list of streets in Liverpool that are to have their links with slavery explained for the first time through a series of bronze plaques. Photo: National Museums Liverpool
10. Paul Barber
The versatile Toxteth-born actor is known for his memorable roles on stage and screen, including his portrayal of Denzil in the iconic sitcom Only Fools and Horses. Barber’s talent has endeared him to audiences worldwide. The 73-year-old is also well known for his performance in The Full Monty (1997). Photo: Scott Barbour, Getty Images
11. Howard Gayle
The Toxteth-born footballer made history as the first black player to represent Liverpool FC. He signed his contract with the club in 1977 and his finest hour came in the 1980–81 European Cup semi-final second leg away at Bayern Munich when he tore them apart. Beyond the pitch, Gayle’s advocacy for equality and diversity continues to inspire the Liverpool community. Photo: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
12. George Melly
Best known as a jazz and blues singer, Toxteth-born George Melly had many strings to his bow as he also became a critic, writer, and lecturer. From 1965 to 1973 he was a film and television critic for The Observer. He died in 2007, at the age of 80. Photo: Howard Denner/Avalon/Getty Images