Blue Plaque for George Harrison's Liverpool birthplace

A national blue plaque has been unveiled at George Harrison’s birthplace in South Liverpool by his widow Olivia.

The plaque, in Wavertree’s Arnold Grove, aims to celebrate the life and achievements of the late Beatle who died in 2001.

Harrison was born at number 12 Arnold Grove in February 1943 and lived in the tiny terraced house with his parents Harold and Louise, and three older siblings, until he was seven when the family moved to Upton Green in Speke.

Olivia Harrison said: “This blue plaque recognition of George’s birthplace is a source of family pride for all the Harrisons, and something that none of us, mainly George, would ever have anticipated.

“So much of who George was came from being born and spending his earliest years at 12 Arnold Grove, undeniably a part of who George was.

“He left a footprint on this world, on this country, in this city and on this street.”

Above: Olivia Harrison at the plaque unveiling. Top: The new blue plaque at 12 Arnold Grove. Photos by James Speakman/PA Media Assignments.

Historic England’s chief executive Duncan Wilson, who was also involved in the unveiling, added: “For many years, local residents and fans have longed for a blue plaque marking the place where George Harrison’s exceptional life story began.

“I’m thrilled we can make that a reality.”

Historic England is also inviting people to nominate other figures nationwide who they believe are deserving of a blue plaque. It hopes to celebrate ‘inspirational people from all walks of life, including people and communities whose history has been hidden or forgotten’.

The historic blue plaque scheme dates from 1867 and was the brainchild of Liverpool-born politician William Ewart. The first plaques were unveiled in London and commemorated Lord Byron and Napoleon III.

Nominations are open until July 19 and for more information or to nominate someone, visit the Historic England website HERE