Guestbook

Please add to our guestbook. This is a friendly place where you can tell everyone what you think about the tunnels. Please note that as this guestbook is moderated it may take a day or so for your message to appear. You can leave your e-mail address out if you want - some spammers collect addresses from guestbooks!

Guestbook Archive


Asolutely fascinating! I was born and bred in liverpool and until an hour ago had never heard of Williamson's Tunnels and I've been riveted to the site. Can't wait to see them on my next visit to the Pool. A great website - well done.

Linda
linda reynolds
vence, alpes maritimes, france, Sat 13 Feb 11:44:49 2010
[ Webmaster replies : Thanks Linda, glad you found us and that our web site had such an impact. You will be even more impressed when you visit.
JM ]
WOW! I have just been told about these tunnels by a builder we have in at the moment. Looks like I will have to see them!

Many thanks.

Jim
James Turner
Mon 18 Jan 13:16:23 2010
[ Webmaster replies : Good builder there Jim! Yes tunnels are well worth a visit. The Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane is open most days and you will find the tour most interesting and informative. If you join FoWT you will also be able to see other sections of the tunnels not yet open to the public. You can join on-line. ]
How fascinating!Some-one mentioned these tunnels on our Beatles Tour recently,and now I've found the site.Hope to explore more when we visit again.Good Luck to you.
Rob (a brummie who loves Liverpool)
Rob
Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom, Tue 29 Dec 22:04:01 2009
[ Webmaster replies : We love the Brummies too Rob. Glad you managed to find us. The place you need next time you visit is the Williamson Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane, Liverpool. The Heritage Centre is open most days. Google the Williamson Heritage Centre and you will get to their site. You will not be disapointed. ]
It was good to see so many people at the AGM last week. Glad to know things are still progressing - even if its not as fast as we would all want. The contractors have almost left the "Grave Site", there are only a few bits of equipment left. Hopefully they will be starting on the garden soon
Cathy
Liverpool, Wed 21 Oct 22:27:38 2009
[ Webmaster replies : Yes, thanks to the loyalty of all our members, it was a well attended AGM Cathy. It was good to be able to show all the hard work that is still going on behind the scenes even though on the surface at times, it may seem progress is slow, there is always so much work to do.
We all look forward to the wonderful day when the garden is completed and we have JWs memorial in place.
JM]
I heard about the tunnels a few years ago, but I've only just found your website. It's fascinating! I am determined to visit the tunnels in the next few weeks. Has the site of Williamson's grave been made into a garden yet? Can you give details of where it is exactly, please? Keep up the good work, maintaining this important historical site.
Joan.
Joan Gallen
Liverpool, United Kingdom, Sun 30 Aug 10:56:13 2009
[ Webmaster replies : Glad you finally found us Joan and hope you get to make that visit soon. The grave site is not accessible at the moment as it is still enclosed by contractors fencing. But don't worry, we will update the web site when things start to happen in that area.
JM]
I'd never heard of these before, but they just featured in the Telegraphs Top 10 Underground Attractions, so I had to look them up. Absolutely fascinating, and I hope you are able to preserve and renovate much more of them in future!
Rob
Salford, UK, Tue 30 Jun 11:34:37 2009
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks for your message Rob. You are not too far away from us so why not take a day trip to Scouseland one day and drop in for a visit.
JM]
Well worth a visit! Fascinating place with very informative and enthusiastic guides.
A Worsley
Newcastle, Tyne & Wear, UK, Mon 13 Apr 21:02:27 2009
[ Webmaster replies : Sounds like you had a good time during your visit! Glad you looked us up and hope you keep dropping in for up-dates.
]
Born and raised in Liverpool but living away now, I still maintain a keen interest in local history.Your website is interesting and easy to use.I hope the Smithdown Lane Stables are not demolished. Too many old and interesting parts are lost forever only to be replaced with something modern and ugly eg. St John's lovely old market. Will visit on my next trip to Liverpool
Carol Jeffree
Maresfield, East Sussex, England, Mon 06 Apr 09:28:26 2009
[ Webmaster replies : Well, we are keeping a very close eye on the stables site Carol as we have been for many years now. Hopefully Heritage will win over greed and stupidity.
Many thanks for your message and hope you get to visit soon.

]
I had never heard of the Williamson tunnels until i recently saw them featured on the programme "How Britain was built". What struck me straight away was the similarities between Williamson's tunnels and a folly local to me known as the "Welbeck tunnels" not just the tunnels but the man himself. The Welbeck tunnels were built around the same time and in an almost identical style. The builder of these tunnels (The 5th Duke of Portland) was as his title suggests a man of great means. He was a huge source of employment at a time of otherwise great poverty. He reputedly led a secretive double life, could it have possibly been a triple life?
Sadly (unlike the Williamson's tunnels) the Welbeck tunnels are slowly rotting away. They, like Williamson's tunnels are a feature of local if not national heritage and should be preserved for all to see.
Anyway keep up the good work and I hope to see the tunnels for myself soon.
M Turner
Worksop, Nottinghamshire, UK, Tue 10 Feb 14:10:39 2009
[ Webmaster replies : How very interesting. Some of us had heard of the Welbeck tunnels before and they are indeed similar in style to Williamson's, both making extensive use of the cut and cover method in their construction. I think the difference with Williamson though is that he went much deeper, building tunnels below tunnels. Also significant is the intricate arches carved out by Willimson's men.
I do hope you are able to visit us one day and compare the two systems first hand.
Many thanks for your message.
JM]
Having grown up at 5 Edge Lane - 1952 to 1964, and attending Rathbone County Primary School, I had never heard of the tunnels.I will definitely visit on my next trip to the U.K.
Ray Bleasdale
Courtice, Ontario, Canada, Mon 01 Dec 18:46:48 2008
[ Webmaster replies : And we have no doubt the memories will come flooding back Ray. The tunnels will be a real eye opener and you will probably wonder how you missed them when you were a kid.
JM]
Hi I heard about the Williamson Tunnels a couple of years ago, when I was doing a tour at Bank Hall in Bretherton. We are a voluntary group trying to restore the Jacobean House and Gardens. Whilst giving a guided tour a member from FoWT was amongst the visitors in the group I was talking to and they mentioned the Tunnels and that I must visit!! I was told of the trouble and the plans to open the visitor centre and the risk of losing the stable blocks to developments. I said that I would visit and as of yet I have not done so, but I really hope to visit very very soon!
I am all for supporting groups trying to conserve history and heritage and especially for a project as interesting as this! I sure hope to visit soon and maybe bring some of Our members from the Bank Hall Action Group along!

Well done with all the work you have done and I wish you all the success with the project and I hope to visit soon!
John
Southport, Sat 01 Nov 17:05:38 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Sounds like a very worthwhile project you are undertaking there John and we at FoWT wish you and your group well with the restoration works.
You will not be disappointed when you visit the Heritage Centre and do hope you get to visit soon.
Perhaps we could arrange something whereby we visit your site and we then show you round the tunnels? It would be good to share each others experiences on preservation etc.
Hope to speak soon and many thanks for taking the time out to contact us.
JM
]
Hi I am originally from Liverpool and find this story amazing. My brothers have visited many times and they love the tunnels so I thought it was time I joined. I am looking forward to coming home and the first thing I will do is visit the tunnels, I am well excited.
maxine
London, England, Thu 02 Oct 15:36:17 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Will look forward to meeting up Maxine and if you are impressed by the story and photos, just wait until you see the real thing. Many thanks for joining us.
(Note to digging crew...get an extra spade!)
JM]
I have visited the tunnels a number of times and I am always in awe of them. The volunteers who work on this project deserve a medal. They get no government backing and very little help from elsewhere. Well done. Your work is appreciated.
Carole
Liverpool, Merseyside, England, Wed 27 Aug 21:23:55 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Anymore visits Carole and you're getting a spade!
We have actually received some grants over the years Carole from various local Government initiatives. Not astronomical amounts it must be said but every little helps as the saying goes. Our loyal members are the main backbone that keep us all going and of course our Committee and regular volunteers who help out at our stands at the various fayres throughout the year etc.
Hope you keep visiting and spreading the word.
JM ]
I think the Willamson's tunnels are very interesting and unusual and before I went to the Willamson's tunnels I had never heard of him before.
asheigh
Liverpool, England, Thu 14 Aug 21:33:00 2008
[ Webmaster replies : We all have to start somewhere Ashleigh, all part of the learning curve. Most of us had never heard of Joseph Williamson or the tunnels but once we did find out about him,we wanted to learn more. This is how we grow as a society, the more people learn and pass on the story of the King of Edge Hill and his maze of incredible tunnels , even more people become interested and they pass on the story...
So glad you were able to visit
the tunnels and the web site and hope you pass on the story to everyone you know.
Many thanks for your kind message.
JM]
I had heard of your tunnels through work (Graeme House Derby Square) and found them fascinating! It would be great if I could have more of an insight of these tunnels I would like to be involved in some way. Is it true that there are tunnels under Graeme House/Derby Square? Your web site is good and I would like to learn more
Paula Lockyer
Liverpool, Mersyside, Fri 01 Aug 14:56:51 2008
[ Webmaster replies : It is easy to get involved Paula, become a member and attend our monthly members meetings (see web site for details)You don't say if you have visited the tunnels yet, if you have not, then you are in for a treat.
Don't know about tunnels under Derby Square, I suppose with it being the former site of Liverpool Castle, there would be many rumours of tunnels beneath the area. If there were tunnels there, I am sure we would have heard about them.
JM]
I caught a brief glimpse of the feature on 'The One Show on BBC1'. I've always had a fascination for history of this period and the London underground fascinates me. However, I find the 'Williamson Tunnels' even more fascinating and your website adds to the fascination as it reflects the dedication of FoWT. With my limited knowledge of the subject, I feel that the tunnels began as a practical project of Williamson's only to manifest into an obsession in his efforts to deal with his overwhelming loss and bereavement of his wife.(Depression and Mental health affects people in unexplainable ways at times.) Of course, it's only a thought and I would much prefer there to be a more glamorous and intriguing truth. Keep up the good work and I'll visit soon,
Neil Banks
Staffordshire, england, Tue 10 Jun 21:11:19 2008
[ Webmaster replies : There are a number of theories as to why Williamson built his underground kingdom Neil. "To provide men returning from the Napoleonic wars with work" was the accepted word passed down by historians however, when one tours the tunnels and gazes upon the sheer scale of the undertaking and marvel at the skill of the craftsmen it does tend to make one wonder if there was an ulterior motive. In his later years JW did spend a lot more time underground than he did above it (a bit like us nowadays!!) Was he alone with his memories? It is a total different scenario than say the London Underground. We know for fact, that the London Underground was built, not because someone was depressed or a bit mad, but because it was needed so trains could travel through unhindered by other traffic...end of! But then we see Williamson's magnificent works and it makes us wonder. Intriguing isn't it! When we come to try and understand why Williamson built his tunnels, that questioning human element wants to dismiss the long accepted explanation and look for other reasons. Did JW have a vision, was he involved with some religious sect that used the tunnels (some of which are church like)for meetings? The answer is Neil... we don't really know the answer! We hope to discover more about Williamson as we delve deeper into the depths and continue with our research in the meantime we all enjoy the guessing game!
Many thanks for your message Neil and hope you get to visit us soon.
JM ]
I too saw the One Show, and was absolutely fascinated!
My dad is an Anfield boy well he's 71 now and has mentioned the tunnels over time.
He was one of the Towers family of Towson St.
I am a mature art student and would like to concentrate on your wonderful tunnels in some way for my next project, but not quite sure how yet?
I am not a painter, but I think either the sounds of the tunnels, or a 3D model with some of the items you've found included in small scale would be more me.
People should celebrate and support something so unusual. I have to hope that at some stage evidence is found to support the philanthropic theory!! (soppy woman that I am)
Many thanks
Sue Anderson

Sue Anderson
Lymington, Hants, UK, Tue 03 Jun 12:03:47 2008
[ Webmaster replies : A 3D model of the tunnels would be some undertaking Sue as in some parts they descend three and six levels below the street line. Also the bottom level of Paddington, that is to say, the present bottom level (before excavation of other areas where we know there are other levels)is approx 50ft deep! In 1925 Charles Hand and a party from the Lancashire & Cheshire Historical Society, visited the Paddington section of the tunnels and walked for nearly a mile without finding a boundary! Obviously you would need to visit the tunnels to take in the sheer scale of the area. All evidence does point to the Philanthropic theory, probably 80% correct, we like to keep the remaining 20% open because we have discovered the Joseph Williamson story is full of twists and turns. I don't know how long it has been since your dad visited the area but in any event with the opening of the new "Liverpool One" part of the city last week, he will be very impressed with the changes also, he is still young enough to visit the tunnels. So why not join FoWT on a family membership then you will all be able to visit the areas not yet open to the public during our members open days.
Many thanks for your message Sue.
JM
]
Hi, have just seen the piece on the "One Show" on BBC1. Really interesting...keep up the good work. Will come and visit when I get a chance
Nick
Yateley, Hants, UK, Mon 02 Jun 19:19:52 2008
[ Webmaster replies : The show was filmed a couple of weeks ago Nick and our experienced FoWT Liverwood "A" List extras were paraded before the producers. With crimson lippy, over-plastered blusher and gleaming new hard-hats, Chris and Les, still coining it from the corporate after dinner speaking circuit following their walk-on (and straight off again)parts on "Songs of Praise," steam-rolled through the screen tests! With the amount of TV and Radio work they have done it won't be long before they are asked to the Celebrity Big Brother House!
The BBC have been very good to us over the years Nick providing valuable publicity and bringing the Williamson story to a much wider audience. It gives us all a boost when we receive messages like yours from as far afield as Hants. Do hope you get to make that visit one day, you will really enjoy it.
JM ]
Surely a contender for another World Heritage Award? I knew about the tunnels in the mid 80s but didn't appreciate the extent, size and high standard of the workings. Most impressive as is your approach and dedication. Have you considered looking for a sponsor - a tunneling company for example? More people should know about this - I shall send your link to a number of my friends requesting onward transmission. If other visitors want to help they could do the same. No cost and better than the usual junk we pass around! Well done! Keep going! Membership application actioned!
Jim Bellew
London, Sun 18 May 17:31:55 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Three great words there Jim! We have been using "Onward Transmission" for quite a while. On many occasions though, we then have to deal with "return" transmission! But we keep going in the hope of hitting that lucky streak until our transmissions are eventually "actioned" Great messages like yours give us that extra spark and it is exactly how we have survived and remained dedicated for so long to the life, times and great works of Joseph Williamson. Just as you say, spreading the word is one of the most important parts of our very being and the result in lovely messages like yours is our reward.We hope you and your friends visit us one day and see the works first hand for yourselves.
JM
]
Interesting website about a peculiar man. More people should know about Williamson and his legacy to Liverpool.
Have FOWT opened the tunnels yet as I noticed it is nearly a year since your news was updated and they would be wonderful to see.
Catherine Williams
Merseyside, England, Fri 25 Apr 18:33:06 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Our section at Paddington is not open yet Catherine however it will look pretty spectacular when it eventually is. We are currently awaiting the lease to be completed and once this is to hand we will be able to start clearing out the rubble. In case you don't know the Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane (opposite Police Station) is open to the public for tours every day and it is well worth a visit. Do keep checking site for details of how we progress. ]
After reading the Williamson tunnel story we were disappointed to think that such a man is "under a car park" after doing so much for employment in his time.
Ian &Angie Baddeley
Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, U.K., Sun 16 Mar 20:22:24 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Hi Ian and Angie...said "car park" will not be a car park for much longer folks. It is actually being turned back into a garden by "Grosvenor Henderson" the Developers carrying out the extensive reconstruction works in the area. Grosvenor Henderson are aware of the historical connection to this area and have been very generous and understanding to our cause. In fact the developers were instrumental in our successful search for the grave site and since then we have been in talks with them about helping to design a memorial to Williamson for the garden. If you look back through the "previous news items" on our web site you will see the article and photographs taken when we finally found the grave in Oct 05. To get to previous News items, go to our web site and look at "Latest News" scroll down and click on "More" scroll down to the bottom of the news item and you will see a box containing dates of all previous news items. Click on "Oct 05" There you will see the article and photos of Williamson's Grave.
Now...how good are you with a spade!
JM]
I am so glad that the tunnels have been opened, what a surprise! When I first heard the story of the tunnels, 10 or so years ago, even before the feature on Channel 4 news, the fear was that the tunnels may be destroyed forever, I think, by the construction of a new student building. I moved out of the country and heard nothing until now. Well done for your hard work!

I'm definitely coming for a visit when I am in the UK next time.

Steffie, Former member of FoWT
Steffie Dubery
Den Haag, Netherlands, Fri 14 Mar 12:08:34 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Hi Steffie, many thanks for your message and glad you found us. I think you are referring to the Paddington tunnel site which we found in the summer 99. Entrance is just opposite the Bears Paw Pub. A lot of spade work has gone on there since and you will not be disappointed when you visit.
JM
]
Great photo of the diggers and their machines - have they been put to good use yet?
Paula Jones
Liverpool, Tue 26 Feb 18:49:05 2008
[ Webmaster replies : If you think the machines are good...wait until you see the new spades Paula!
Although the elastic bands have all been checked and wound in readiness we are still waiting for the word "GO" It should not be too long now.
JM]
Just been for our 1st visit to the tunnels today (3/1/08).Really enjoyable & a good afternoon out.Find it frustrating as would love to see more of the tunnels,maybe in time this will be possible.
Adrian Brown
St.Helens, Merseyside, UK, Sun 03 Feb 17:17:48 2008
[ Webmaster replies : We have dealt with frustration Adrian, in fact, astronomical amounts of it for nigh on 20 years...so we know how you feel! But do not despair good fellow help is at hand. We presume your tunnel visit was to the Williamson Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane? It is indeed a great tour and the incredible hard work that has gone on down there and of course which is continued daily by the dedicated volunteers, does give a great "taster" for the tunnels and can leave one wanting to see a little more. There is in fact a lot more to see on the Smithdown Lane site for example, the Triple Decker Tunnel however access is not possible at the moment due to Health & Safety, funding and a lot more more besides, but we are working on it with the usual frustrations forever to the fore. Have you joined FoWT? We have "Members Weekends" when we can show our members around those other tunnel sites not as yet open to the public. You will be able to tour the Banqueting Hall and Wine Cellars beneath Williamson's old house on Mason Street and also tour the Paddington section. So don't delay...get your membership today (gosh...that line has given us an idea for a leaflet drop!)You can print a membership form off on-line from our web site.
Many thanks for your message Adrian.
JM]
Hi again, Just reading about the garage and the brick props underneath which brought to mind the hole that appeared in Magnets yard (the large concrete slab that seemed to cave in )
Is this visible from the tunnels? Would be interesting to know. Thanks. J Walsh

john
Liverpool, Merseyside, England, Wed 16 Jan 01:25:48 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Hi John. No the concrete fill in Magnets car park cannot be seen from the tunnels below Mason Street (yet !) What we do know however is that deep below Magnets is the Great Tunnel one of the entrances to which can be seen from a tunnel leading to the Banqueting Hall situated below Mason Street. The land above the Banqueting Hall though belongs to the Council and in ten years of trying, we have not been granted permission to clear any part of that system out as yet. Hopefully at some stage in the future we may get lucky and clear the passages in that section. It would be a fantastic experience being able to finally step into the Great Tunnel the dimensions of which are awesome.
JM]
At last visited your site, fantastic. One query, what is the list of http's about in comments dated Feb 2007. some strange addresses?
Next step is to print off form and send in to become family members, then will go down tunnels when time allows.
keep up the good work . J Walsh
john <j>
Liverpool, Merseyside, England, Wed 16 Jan 00:51:02 2008
[ Webmaster replies : We are always delighted to welcome new members John and we know you will enjoy the experience in being part of one of the largest local Historical Societies in the UK.
Nothing to worry about with the https just a spammer who slipped both the moderator and security net! The message has been removed.
JM]
I was born in Liverpool and lived there until I was Eighteen. Having always been interested in the underground world, I have now been exploring old abandoned tin and copper mines for over thirty years and now chair the Cornwall Mine Rescue Organisation. Your site has been an eye opener to me and the dedication of your digging crew is commendable.We generally have an 'out of county' jolly for the team about twice a year into North Wales, exploring the slate mines, and so an excursion into Liverpool would not be out of our way. The majority of our team are Mining engineers and surveyors and I'm sure they would all enjoy the trip.I did hear somewhere of the existence of these tunnels but never realised the extent, and the potential for further exploration. The task you have ahead seems mammoth but what a project to be involved in. Uncovering the past for Liverpool and the extraordinary work of Williamson himself.
We Wish you great success in your venture. Roy Morton and the members of CMRO.
roy morton
Redruth, Cornwall, U.K., Tue 01 Jan 05:07:37 2008
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks for your message Roy and good to hear from a fellow underground explorer. We would be delighted to act as hosts to you and your team and show you around the various sites whenever you plan to visit Liverpool especially in our European Capital of Culture Year. I will email you off site and provide you with our active team contact details. Engineers and Surveyors are always bowled over by the extent and intricacies of the work undertaken by Williamson and his men and we know your visit will be rewarding and most worthwhile
JM]
The virtual tour has convinced me that I must visit these tunnels. Who knows, I may be a relative.
Roger Williamson
Ormskirk, Lancashire, England, Mon 31 Dec 22:37:47 2007
[ Webmaster replies : We bow to thee Mr Williamson...(just in case!) You are not far away from us Roger and a visit will be well worth the effort. We are not as yet sure of the dates this year when the Paddington and Mason Street sites will be open, it is going to be a mad year (!) however, the Williamson Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane is open most days (closed Monday)Check web site for details/opening times and keep looking into our site for details of our members visits...hint...if you are not a member yet, best to join to see those areas of tunnels not open to the general public!
Thank you for your message Roger.
Jim M ]
I picked up Ryan Denise's book Betrayed where she acknowledges FOWT. I was curious and wandered into your tunnels. Interesting I must say. Will definitely visit Liverpool on my next trip to UK.

Its mind boggling that so much is beneath the ground and none of the buildings above the tunnels have caved in !!

Awesome.
Padma Dilip Kumar
HongKong, Sat 29 Dec 14:48:20 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Thanks for your message Padma, and a first from Hong Kong - how exciting. Amazing how the Williamson story spans the globe.
Although none of the tunnels have caved in from the buildings above, a lot of the tunnels have been filled in from the buildings that stood above them! Easy (and cheaper)way of quickly disposing of the rubble which is the main focus of our attention...trying to clear them out! Well worth a visit next time you are in the UK. You can drop into the Williamson Heritage Centre in Smithdown Lane for a most informative and rewarding trip into the past.
Keep looking into web site for up-dates and members visits during the year
Jim M ]
I was pleased to read about the tunnels being used as a setting for a film (think it an Edgar Alan Poe story). Is it possible to buy a copy of the film and the tunnels in full colour glory? What are the chances of George Cloony filming "Oceans 14" in the banqueting hall?
Paula Jones
Liverpool, Tue 04 Dec 18:24:43 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Hi Paula. sorry for the delay in responding to your message but we have been making enquiries with regard to your request for information about buying a copy of the film "The Cask" The Film was produced by Andris Films their web site is: www.andrisfilms.co.uk. I have been checking their web site on a daily basis however it is still under construction and I have not been able to contact them to make relevant enquiries. (we would also love to see the film!) Perhaps if you keep an eye on the site it may eventually be completed and you can deal with them direct.
As for George Clooney filming in the tunnels, with looking like his double, I would be an automatic choice to act as his stand-in for the stunt scenes (digging with spade etc!)(if only!)Of course, our FoWT Active Team are a pretty experienced bunch of "extras" having appeared on telly in all sorts of things - Songs of Praise springs immediatly to mind when they filmed us on a visit to the city for a memorable episode. We were a bit upset though as we all sang "Underneath The Arches" in the Banqueting Hall and they edited it out! Not fair really as we all thought we were quite brilliant!
Jim M ]
Are the tunnels open to the public during the winter? The website only shows summer opening times.
Christine Coburn
Liverpool, Tue 27 Nov 19:51:56 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Yes the tunnels at the Williamson Heritage Centre on Smithdown Lane are open during the winter months Christine but not every day. Check the JWS web site for details here:
http://www.williamsontunnels.co.uk/view.php?page=information
]
When I was a student at Liverpool, I once read that bears lived in the tunnels underneath Liverpool... and even today the odd bear is still spotted? These bears originated from Victorian times when they were kept as pets. any truth behind this? thanks, Pablo
Pablo Wiedemann
Eindhoven, Noord Brabant, The Netherlands, Fri 09 Nov 14:54:43 2007
[ Webmaster replies :
WANTED...volunteers for tunnel digging duties £500.00 per hour, free meals thrown in, free room and board at Adelphi Hotel. Estimated life expectancy down below...2 hours tops!

Well, I'm not digging down there anymore Pablo too dangerous if you ask me and our Health & Safety Enclosed Spaces Certificate doesn't cover Bears!

No, none of us have ever heard of bears roaming about the tunnels and never found any evidence of them (not yet anyway!) Also never heard that the Victorians kept them as pets.

Do you think this could be a "Lost in Translation" thing and what you actually heard was that the Victorians kept "Chairs" in the tunnels? In which case...yes they did and indeed we do have a variety of chairs still down there today.
Many thanks for your message
JM
]
Hi On a previous visit to your website, I thought I had read something about a Halloween night at the tunnels. Now I can't find it. Are you holding the event again this year and if so when?
KAREN DEVINE
Wirral, Merseyside, uk, Wed 26 Sep 13:35:55 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Hi Karen,

The Halloween Night was held in 2006 and it was such a great success it is indeed being held again this year however, the event is run by our friends at the "Joseph Williamson Society" and is held at the "Williamson Heritage Centre" in Smithdown Lane (just opposite the Police Station) Details for the event are on the Joseph Williamson Web site at this link:
http://www.williamsontunnels.co.uk/view.php?page=news

If I wasn't so scared of the dark...I would go myself!

Have a good time.

JM]
I was raised and lived in 52a Mason Street until we moved in 1941. We lived in the lower part of a furniture factory alongside the railway wall and we had an opening in our cellar which presumably was part of the tunnel system. We never knew what it was until I found your website some years ago. I must come and visit next time we are in the good old city.
Aleck Cameron
Bourne, Lincolnshire, England, Wed 29 Aug 18:55:46 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Absolutely Aleck. It would be wonderful to meet you and your knowledge of the area could be of great value. It would be of benefit if you joined FoWT so you can visit those parts of the system not as yet open to the public. See web site for details. Do keep in touch via our web site and look out for future visits.
JM
]
I grew up in Blanch Street and never knew about the tunnels that were probably under our house until I found your website. It was fantastic to visit the heritage centre and actually enter the tunnels. Thank you to Barbara, our guide, for a very informative tour, keep digging and we'll be back.
Bill, Leicester
Bill (ex-pat)
Liverpool (visiting), Thu 23 Aug 02:33:37 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Glad you enjoyed the tour Bill and hopefully we may have uncovered a lot more before you return. Think you will have visited the Williamson Heritage Centre in Smithdown Lane which is open most days and a warm welcome is extended to all.

JM]
As a Scouser in exile I have just now stumbled onto your fantastic site.I only wish I had known earlier about the Williamson Tunnels. It is amazing that the Liverpool Echo never carried the story when I was a kid living very near Smithdown Lane. It is also very frustrating tht I will have difficulty quizzing my dad about any recollections he may have - he is now 95 and almost blind and deaf. He spent all of his childhood in Smithdown Lane as did my grandparents before they moved to nearby Tunnel Road where my grandad was a carter at Edge Hill Railway Depot.

Perhaps if I visit the Heritage Centre with my dad next time I visit from my home in Germany he may have a few memories to share.
Would it be difficult for him to access? He is not too steady on his feet these days. We usually hold his arm to give support.
Let me know if you need a translation of any tour from English into German.

Good wishes for further and possible more accelerated success in your endeavours in conjunction with the 2008 European Culture City initiative.

Eddie Martin
Eddie Martin
Düsseldorf, Germany, Sun 19 Aug 18:17:57 2007
[ Webmaster replies :
Leesten velly curfally, I vill say dis only wance...ve haff vays ov making yoo dig..!

Good to hear from you Eddie and thanks for taking the time out to contact us with your interesting story. The first message from Germany methinks.

Firstly it should not be a problem with your dad visiting the "Heritage Centre" in Smithdown Lane, he can even have a coffee beneath the double tunnel in the bar there. The other sites (for members only and not yet open to the public)where ladders and steps are involved may prove a little tricky until more accessible routes into the system are eventually found.

The Echo do carry some excellent news items on the tunnels from time to time the most famous one, and the one for which we will be forever grateful was on May 15th 1925 when Mr Charles Hand President of Lancashire and Cheshire Historical Society with other members in tow...visited Williamson's tunnels at Paddington and walked for nearly a mile underground through the system without finding a boundary. It is thanks to that article that we knew about the Paddington site...long since filled in, forgotten and hidden from view....that is until our intrepid Active Team eventually re-discovered the site in July 1999! The work is still continuing in the Paddington system. Perhaps your dad may remember the article there is reference to it on our web site?

Be good to meet with you next time you are over.

JM
]
fascinating! stumbled across your page whilst researching family name,you need some national exposure i.e. Timewatch. Did they get used as shelters during WW2?
Ray Williamson
Uxbridge, Middx, England, Sun 12 Aug 01:23:39 2007
[ Webmaster replies :
We would love Timewatch to do a program about the tunnels Ray but I think we would have to clear quite a bit of the system out first! If we were able to re-discover the two houses carved out of the sandstone below ground and perhaps find a way into the Great Tunnel and clear that out together with the Tripple Decker Tunnel...we may be in with a shout. Still we have had some good TV coverage over the years and we are sure there will be more to come.

To our knowledge the tunnels were not used as air raid shelters during WW2, the Council did though carry out a feasibility study for such a use but concluded they would not be practicable, probably due to access and sanitation (lack of)

JM ]
I visited the FoWT stand at Woodvale Rally in August. Amazed at the enthusiasm and interest shown. Sad that work is taking so long. Intend visiting in the near future. All good wishes for your future efforts. Will keep an eye on your website from time to time.
david stuckey
ormskirk, lancs, UK, Sat 04 Aug 16:07:37 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Always an excellent venue Woodvale David and it was good to meet you there.

It is frustrating (especially after 12 years!) waiting to excavate various parts of the tunnels. Going through all the legal channels can be slow and time consuming but once we start...there will be no stopping us! The exciting thing that keeps us all going though is wondering what new wonders we will uncover.

JM]
My hubby and I would love to become involved in the dig. We have plenty of time to spare and also it would be an honour to do it. What do we need to do to become invovled? Lynn
Lynn Mills
Liverpool, Tue 19 Jun 23:42:43 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Simple Lynn...you and hubby come along and borrow my spade, I show you where to dig and then I go for sit down and cup-a-tea... as if I would give my spade up!! You can contact the active team via the web site Lynn the more helpers the better.

JM ]
If anyone is North West based and wants to see the stageplay KING OF EDGE HILL by Karen Brown which won the Liverpool Post and Echo Award in 2002 it's being produced again at Liverpool Unity Theatre for 3 nights only 19th 20th 21st July. It is based upon the Radio 4 play with John McArdle originally broadcast in 2000. Tickets are going fast
Sean McKee <bigbyron@blueyonder.co.uk>
liverpool, Fri 15 Jun 19:41:48 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks Sean I am sure there will be plenty looking in who will take those remaining tickets.

JM]
I grew up in Huyton and had heard rumours about the tunnels around th Edge Hill area so I was pleased to 'stumble' upon your website.
Next time I visit Liverpool I will try and check your tunnels out for real. All the best, Martin
Martin Bretherick
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, Wed 13 Jun 14:27:27 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Funny rumours Martin arn't they, sometimes one simply nods in agreement...'oh yes heard about them tunnels, "Mad Mole wasn't he...oh sorry yes he was actually the "King of Edge Hill" dug tunnels all over the place' And then out of the blue someone says they have actually been down the tunnels on a guided tour or stumbled across a web site with information all about them and suddenly the rumours start to become reality and when the realisation dawns that they were not really rumours and indeed, if you are lucky enough to suddenly find yourself standing in the awe- inspiring Banqueting Hall beneath Joseph Williamson's former house...you realise those whispers had a profound element of truth. It is with this in mind we do hope you make the trip back to the Pool one day.

Many thanks for your message Martin and do keep looking in.

JM]
I have just visited the site and was overwhelmed by how informative it is. I was also pleasantly surprised to read about the great co-operation you have received from the developers of the Paradise Street area, it is often not the case that heritage speaks louder than money, well done FoWT and Grosvenor Henderson. I will be visiting the tunnels with my young son this summer and after visiting the site I can't wait!!!
Estelle Lundy
Liverpool, M,side, England, Tue 05 Jun 22:39:09 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks for your kind message Estelle and we are delighted you will be visiting the tunnels soon with your son. We are indeed fortunate it is Grosvenor Henderson carrying out the Paradise Street area development for they have been a tower of strength in helping to preserve the memory of Joseph Williamson and indeed, it is thanks to their own interest in local preservation coupled with resiliance and patience that the final resting place of the great man was eventually uncovered. We can never really thank them enough. We know you will enjoy your visit just as many of us did first time around.

JM ]
We have just had the most fascinating day filming with your FOWT reps, Chris, Nora and Steve for our upcoming series of Lost Treasures. Our series begins on Sunday April 26th and the episode involving the tunnels goes out I believe on Sunday June 17th at 5.30.

On behalf of producer Phil Hirst and presenter Mark Olly, I am writing both to commend your excellent work and also to ask if we could exchange links with you from www.lost-treasures.co.uk We are just updating the site and would like to acknowledge the support of those who helped us make the series. It's all about enthusiasts in the region making sure that our heritage is brought to light, and the story of FoWT is one of perseverence which does justice to the extraordinary endeavour of the early 1800's.

We hope that you and your guests will both find the rest of our series interesting too. On behalf of the Lost Treasures team we wish you the very best of luck with your organisation.
Keith Thompson
Wirral, UK, Mon 16 Apr 22:17:40 2007
[ Webmaster replies : The FoWT Active Support Team were delighted to be able to assist Keith especially for such an important and interesting programme.

We know our friends at the JWS over at the Williamson Heritage Centre are also looking forward to your visit and they too will make you all most welcome.

We all look forward to seeing the "Lost Treasures" broadcast and hope the incredible legacy of our unsung hero Joseph Williamson helps swell the viewing figures.

We all hope the new series is
a great success.

We are flattered by your request to be included in the links section of your Lost Treasures Web Site and of course we readily agree and are grateful for the inclusion.

On behalf of the Trustees and Committee and all our devoted members we thank you for your very kind message and do rest assured...the good work continues.

JM]
I have just finished reading the Recollections of old liverpool
(a real copy)and you attribute the book to a James Stonehouse but i can find no trace of him on any census returns, where did he live, and does he have any present day family?
Nick
Wirral, Wed 21 Mar 20:04:07 2007
[ Webmaster replies : Thanks for your interesting question Nick. We hope you enjoyed the book, with its lucid description of the Williamson tunnels, and indeed you have our congratulations on tracking down an original copy! Stonehouse wasn't born in Liverpool, but lived most of his adult life here - from the 1830s until he died in 1890. We're not too sure about any surviving descendants, but if our researchers do trace any we'll make it known here on the site."

Keep looking in.

JM
]
Went to see the tunnels when they where digging them out,you had to squeeze through a small opening to get a view,there where torches on the walls. Been back since, marvellous,what a great job you have done.

EDWARD HOEY
Liverpool, Lancashire, ENGLAND, Wed 04 Oct 10:59:25 2006
[ Webmaster replies : We are still trying to squeeze through small openings Edward!! Once we get the green light to commence operations the small openings can be cleared out when we know we will find even bigger ones!

Glad you enjoyed your visit and hope you keep coming back and looking in.

JM]
My husband and I stumbled upon the tunnels quite by chance as we were looking for the tunnels that link Liverpool to Birkenhead on out recent weekend trip to the North.
How amazing these tunnels are!! It is incredible to think how Williamson managed the arches and tunneling without any of today's equipment or technology.
Well worth a visit
Susan
Birmingham, West Midlands, UK, Sun 01 Oct 18:52:46 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks for your kind endorsement Susan and glad you stumbled across us. Not sure if you have done the tour yet but you can visit the Williamson Heritage Centre in Smithdown Lane any day of the week and you could book your place for the November Members visits (every Sat and Sun during month of November) when you can visit those sites not yet open to the public. (see web site for details)

Do keep looking in as there is lots in the pipe-line and it would be great to see if you can make it back down during November.

JM]
I love reading about the Williamson Tunnels especially because I was born and bred in Paddington Gardens. When we were kids in the 1960s, we used to play by the Army Barracks opposit our tenements block and the lads used to go down big holes there but wouldn't let us girls follow them. My two brothers and their mates would disappear down there for hours but never told our mams or dads. We knew there were tunnels down there but we all thought they were part of the air-raid shelters at each side of our tenements (Paddington Gardens) Me and my friends went on the Williamson tour last year and could not believe we actually lived over these tunnels, we told the tour guide where we used to live. I am very proud of where I was born and my children tell all their mates but I dont think they believe me!!!
Elizabeth Orr
Liverpool, Sat 30 Sep 21:13:37 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Well I am sure they will believe you now Elizabeth! Would love the opportunity to meet with your brothers for we would have many questions for them...it sounds like they could well have been in what we call "The great Tunnel" that runs below what is now the "Magnets" site next to Joseph Williamson's House on Mason Street. As you will know, Magnets now stands on the same spot the Army Barracks occupied. There is no access to the Great Tunnel at present and any information we can glean about it is always most welcome.

Why not make a family booking for the November Members visits when you could treat your brothers and other family members to a tour of the tunnels beneath Williamsons house (the Banqueting Hall and Wine Bins) and the Paddington Section (see web site for details)

Many thanks for your most interesting message and we hope to see you again soon.

JM
]
I have not yet visited the tunnels but saw a signpost when I was visiting my son recently. Curious to know what the place was I looked on the internet and found this site. What a WONDER! This is one of the best sites I have visited and after doing your virtual tour I will certainly visit the tunnels when I am in Liverpool again.
Lesley Managhan
Stratford upon Avon, Warks, England, Thu 31 Aug 16:33:56 2006
[ Webmaster replies : To dig or not to dig; that is the question Lesley!
Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous misfortune by driving past the tunnel sign and then take arms against our guestbook and a sea of troubles. And by opposing the sign, the heartache and the thousand natural shocks of the world wide web that flesh is heir to ‘tis a consummation devoutly to be wish’d. To die, to sleep; To sleep perchance to dream; ay, there’s the rub; for in that sleep of death what dreams may come of missed caverns and passageways that were once but a stones throw but now seem so far distant as we shuffle off this mortal coil. But you give us pause…there’s the respect that makes calamity of so long life, for who would bear the whips and scorns of time. The oppressors wrong, the proud man’s contumely. The pangs of regret will subside and till you return your dreams will hide; how deep, how wide ‘tis great divide and what wisdom so inclined created arches so refined.

Hope you visit soon Lesley and many thanks for your kind message and the first from beautiful Stratford Upon Avon methinks...oh...didn't Shakespeare come from there!!

JM
]
What a fascinating website Mr Williamson intrigues me. Would love to pay a visit to the tunnels, but I don't travel well these days. John
John Baxter
Hull, Yorkshire, UK, Wed 16 Aug 16:55:56 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Sorry you don't travel too well John but delighted the web site gave you a good insight into the tunnels.

JM

]
Well done to all of you who are involved in this project, I found the tunnels fascinating and had a really enjoyable conversation with my tour guide! Very best of luck with your continuing adventure! I'll be back...
Scott Milne
Dundee, Tayside, Scotland, Fri 07 Jul 13:27:22 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Glad you enjoyed your visit Scott and you will be more than welcome to come back...just as a lot of other people do time and time again. Funny, doesn't matter how many times our Trustees or Committee go down the tunnels...which must run into hundreds over the years...we never get bored with it, suppose the sheer scale of the undeertaking and the intricate work never ceases to amaze us.

Many thanks for your message and the first from Dundee methinks.

JM]
AMAZING, An incredible architectural achievement for the time the tunnels were built. I work for London Underground and will endeavour to add publicity to this attraction amongst my customers. I look forward to visiting again.
Duncan Crook
London, Middlesex, Mon 22 May 18:31:41 2006
[ Webmaster replies : How kind of you Duncan thank you from all the Friends and you can rest assured that if your goodself and any customers you are able to pursuade to come up to visit the tunnels will be assured of a good Scouse welcome and will thoroughly enjoy their weekend in Liverpool.

JM]
Hi there...I'm a cab driver in this great City of ours, and I would just like to say that we have something here that is so unique. I can't understand why we are not making the most out of these tunnels! Can anyone think of anywhere else in the world that could match this? This man Joseph Williamson has created a unique underworld. What needs to be done...it needs to be showm to the WORLD what we have in our city, its a creation only seen in movies! Come on guys what needs to be done...rebuild Williamsons house, take it back in time, recreate it for the visitors, try and get some history built in Mason Street just take it all back in time and show the things people had in differant times like the things found in the tunnels. Just think it would be a major tourist attraction, cant get the funds...ask the Scousers, yes, ask the people of Liverpool, it would be something they would all put in for [its OUR history] get the Echo involved, we can only win guys. To get the most out of anything, you need to push it as much as you can ...look what Disney did with a drawing of a mouse! Lets get all on board that can help, don't think about it, if Williamson was alive today he would be telling everyone all about his underworld...think big guys and move it!
Paul
Liverpool, Merseyside, UK, Mon 24 Apr 02:32:02 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Stirring stuff Paul and you reflect the same enthusiasm and endeavor as all our members and Committee. Firstly though, take Mason Street for example, the site of Williamson's house...we cannot apply for funding or grants for the site as we do not actually own it...the Council own it and although they very kindly allow us access to the site for showing members and special visitors down the Banqueting Hall and Wine Bins beneath the land at various times during the course of the year, we have no authority whatsoever to carry out any major or even minor excavations. To rebuild Williamson's house and do what we would all like to do would run into many hundreds of thousands of pounds, this is without taking into account the cost of purchase or lease of the house site itself. So you can see the frustration in that regard that has haunted us for ten years now.

The present Paddington Tunnel site was also once owned by the City Council when it was the old "Paddington Gardens" the Council knocked Paddington Gardens down and then sold the land to developers who built the present Student Village on the site. We actually found the Paddington section of the tunnels in 1999 (after the site was sold) and whilst the student village was being built! The student village has changed owners a number of times in the past few short years since, thereby hampering our applications for a lease to the tunnel site. However, the present owners of the student village and indeed the Council have been greatly supportive to our cause and we are closer than we have ever been in securing a lease. Once we have the lease, we will be able to explore further into the depths of Paddington and who knows where those depths will lead!

We do our best with regard to publicity, a browse through our web site guestbook will show we attract visitors from all over the world. We have also featured on the television show "The History Channel" when they filmed an episode in the tunnels for their series entitled "Secret Passages" The BBC, right across the spectrum have carried prime-time programs on Joseph Williamson and the tunnels at Edge Hill including a BBC Radio Play written by Karen Brown and aired on Radio 4 a couple of years ago, it was later turned into a stage play. Locally, our friends at Radio Merseyside have been absolute stalwarts in their support for the tunnels and regularly give us a mention. The Liverpool Daily Post and Echo have also been magnificent in their support regularly carrying double page features on the tunnels indeed, it is thanks to the Post and Echo that we actually found the Paddington section of the tunnels in the first place! Our researchers found an article, published in the Daily Post in 1925 when the Historian Charles Hand, the then president of the Lancashire and Cheshire Historical Society, visited the “deep tunnels” built by Joseph Williamson at 126 Paddington with other members of the Society. The article carried photographs and a good description of the visit and the site. Without the benefit of that article we may never have found the Paddington section of the tunnels so we all appreciate the importance of publicity.

To see what can be done when everything falls into place, visit the Williamson Heritage Centre in Smithdown Lane where our friends at the Joseph Williamson Society oversee a tremendous attraction and together with some of our volunteers have done a magnificent job in excavating an important part of the tunnel experience.

The hard work continues behind the scenes Paul…we never stop and if you would like to find a ready audience for your infectious enthusiasm and become more involved then do join us...in fact, anyone looking in with ideas and fresh input will always be most welcome we are certainly not a closed shop.

Many thanks for your message Paul.

JM




]
Fantastic Site. It's good to see that someone is doing their best to preserve Liverpool Heritage for a change instead of destroying it
Ed Hurley
brisbane, queensland, Australia, Mon 17 Apr 11:30:17 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Many thanks Ed, glad you liked the site. Yes it is sad about some of the magnificent buildings we have lost over the years but there are still many remaining and indeed some spectacular ones are currently under construction. It is hard work this tunnel business Ed especially as we are all volunteers but the thing is we all "love it" and it can be exciting at times, especially when we know we might find another section...do keep looking in as we might find one soon!
JM]
I was born in Port Sunlight, Wirral. A friend drew my attention to the book called "Boll***s to Alton Towers" as it had a section on Port Sunlight, it also had a section about the tunnels. I went to Liverpool Univerity in the 50s so knew the area fairly well. I used to shop in Smithdown Road (model railway shop)I think you are doing a wonderful job, hope I can visit one day before its too late. Carl Watson
Carl Watson
whakatane, New Zealand, Sun 02 Apr 01:58:46 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Lovely village Port Sunlight Carl...we take part in the annual local history fayre held in Hulm Hall there every year. It is one of those golden opportunities we have of spreading the word about the tunnels and meeting many new friends interested in local history. It is a great occasion and I can fully recommend it to anyone looking in and planning a visit...a Google search for Port Sunlight should produce the details and of course one can take advantage of the other attractions in the village like the incredible Lady Lever Art Gallery and er...the olde worlde pub!

Great to have a message from New Zealand and many thanks for your support Carl. ]
I will bring my daughter and everyone I know. My first visit to Liverpool and the reason I went. I was in awe. The Scouse welcome was superb and please let me know of any continuing donations a Southerner can make. I look forward to my next visit. The best day out ever!!!
Richard
Sittingbourne, Kent, UK, Sun 26 Mar 23:29:03 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Glad you took in the "tunnel experience" and enjoyed your first visit to Liverpool Richard. You certainly brought the weather with you; what a great day we had on Saturday.

We would certainly look forward to seeing you again and the more family and friends you bring the merrier.

Any and all donations are always welcome...new members especially, for we think this year may well be one one of major new discoveries (if all goes according to plan!) and with the price of skips these days...every little helps!

Many thanks for your kind words.

JM

]
I look forward to the day when the entire complex has been investigated, cleared and is opened to the public.May I suggest though that atmospheric music and lighting be added throughout? The tunnels would then be an even more awesome experience than they are now.
PJ Mulholland
Clubmoor, Liverpool, UK, Mon 13 Mar 00:33:31 2006
[ Webmaster replies : We all look forward to that great day Mr Mulholland indeed even opening a third of the system would be quite awesome

The music suggestion is a sore point though...at one time, half way through tours of the Banqeting Hall section of the tunnels, without warning, we would suddenly blast out the Sequentia from Mozart's Requiem however, too many members and visitors were dropping dead through fright! We then started playing music by Sir Cliff and the Shads but then people just killed themselves for the sheer hell of it!!

Joking apart, it would be a good idea to have some sort of piped music, say in one of the Reception chambers before the start of the tour to sort of "set the scene." We have found though that the best atmosphere underground are the tunnels themselves...the total silence...couple this with candle light that would have been used when the tunnels were being constructed and indeed, have used ourselves in the past for various filming events and the result is totally atmospheric. Health and Safety would require a certain amount of light for visitors nevertheless, even adaquete lighting still leaves darkened corners and shadows and being 30ft below ground knowing you are standing on 40ft of rubble and wondering what you will find once it is cleared...that is some atmosphere!

Many thanks for your message and if you have not joined us...please do, will be great to see you.

JM]
I really enjoyed the tunnels today and I feel that the overall effort made by the volenteers and the 'hard core' diggers was amazing. I loved the tour and plan to become a volunteer in the furture. I intend to spread the word around my school and friends. I will be asking my head of year if we can organize a school trip to the tunnels as I feel that the year 9 of Wade Deacon High School will benefit from the experience. I was slightly scared of the dark before entering the tunnels but now I have overcome this petty whim and am "dark-scared free!"
Thanks for everything and I WILL be visiting in the coming weeks again.

Kate Galligan

aged 13
kate galligan
Widnes, cheshire, England, Fri 24 Feb 20:58:03 2006
[ Webmaster replies : What a truly lovely message Kate thank you so much and we are absolutely delighted you visited the tunnels and benefited from the experience. As for being "Dark-Scared-Free" erm...I will follow you around next time you visit as I'm petrified of the dark!! :-)

School trips do indeed benefit from visiting the tunnels and if you steer your Head of Year to our web site I am sure they will be pleased to organsise a visit when all will be most welcome.

JM]
We visited today and really enjoyed it - I feel that the tunnels could be promoted more and intend to spread the word around my local area. The tour was really informative and the volunteers were great - if in any doubt about going round the tunnels don't hesitate I really recommend it.
Gwyn & Jim Hilton
Widnes, Cheshire, England, Fri 24 Feb 20:52:34 2006
[ Webmaster replies : First hand experience is a great way of advertising the tunnels folks and we are grateful to you both for going forth and spreading the word. The hard core regular few, even though greatly limited financially, do tremendous work in promoting the tunnels. For example, practically every week the team are out and about up and down the county doing talks/visual displays to a wide variety of different groups telling the tunnels story when as well as bringing in much needed funds, it also leads to more people visiting the tunnels and (hopefully) more new members joining the Friends. The local press... Liverpool Daily Post and Echo including Radio Merseyside, are indeed very
kind to us and carry periodical features on the tunnels, they are also first at the gate when we have breaking news or as is sometimes the case, complaints about certain matters that sometimes arrise or stand in our way.

All in all, even though we are all volunteers, we are delighted to have built up a very good relationship over the years with the media and have been very fortunate in appearing in many high profile TV and radio programs on the tunnels as well as seeing the tunnels and the story of JW being used for film, plays and major radio broadcasts.

The work continues and we are always inspired when we receive kind messages such as yours. We do hope you come and visit us again soon and indeed if you become members you can visit those parts of the tunnels not as yet open to the public.

JM ]
Visited the tunnels today and was very impressed. It is obvious that the tunnels are a unique attraction and should be publicised a lot more.
The volunteers should be praised and commended for their passion and enthusiasm and I really want to pick up my spade and dig!!!!!!
Jill Galligan
Widnes, Cheshire, England, Fri 24 Feb 20:50:07 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Glad you enjoyed your visit Jill and delighted you own your own spade you're welcome anytime!!
A lot does go on behind the scenes regarding publicising the tunnels and over the years we have been successful in welcoming many film and broadcasting media outlets into the tunnels including the major TV channels (we even appeared on Songs of Praise once!) Most these are mentioned on our web site under "Previous News" items.

Hope to see you again soon Jill many thanks for looking us up and for your kind thoughts.

JM]
Superb and deeply fascinating site. How I envy you your tunnels!
johnathan oswin
Northumberland, Fri 24 Feb 18:04:27 2006
[ Webmaster replies : No need to envy us Jonathan...why not join us! All are welcome and you can take advantage of our organsised members visits and make a weekend of it.

JM]
Superb web site, glad to see someone cares for Liverpool's history and culture. Well done team, keep up the good work. As a reminder, I work in the railway industry and the tunnels around the Edge Hill area are amazing, is there a connection here to the Mole of Edge Hill?

Chrissy Heron

C HERON <chris.heron01@btinternet.com>
LIVERPOOL, M/SIDE, U.K, Tue 24 Jan 19:20:26 2006
[ Webmaster replies : No direct connection Chrissy inasmuch as JW did not actually build the Edge Hill railway tunnels however some of his men would certainly have worked on them as they were experienced in that particular field especially the "cut and cover" method used in the tunnel construction. Many thanks for your message.

JM]
I was brought up in Edge Hill, went to Chatsworth St School and during WWII often went to the air raid shelters under the (then) new flats on Mason St. A few schoolmates and myself often went to the top of the flats to watch the bombers and our fighters, and can always remember the clear blue September skies when the bombers arrived. Even now I can remember people asking why the Williamson tunnels had not been made into shelters. I can never recall any of my contempories actually venturing into the tunnels and when I left Liverpool for Manchester in the early 1950s, I seem to recall that the site was being used as a vehicle repair yard. Please keep pushing for proper recognition of this site and also ask for memories of the people who lived in the Paddington area and who could fill out the history of a once bustling (even though impoverished) working class area.
Best wishes
Mike Mitchell
Mike Mitchell
Hove East Sussex, uk, england, Mon 02 Jan 16:11:08 2006
[ Webmaster replies : Firstly, congratulations Mike yours is the first message in our guestbook for 2006 and it is extra special inasmuch as this is the TENTH year since the formation of FoWT!

Many thanks for sharing your childhood memories with us and what memories they are! It would seem inconceivable
to some people looking in today that just over 50 years ago children stood atop
Paddington Gardens watching enemy aircraft dropping bombs!

The Williamson tunnels were considered for use as air raid shelters Mike however they were deemed by the Council Inspectors as "not suitable"

We do indeed take careful note of the memories and tales of former residents of Edge Hill which has helped us a great deal over the years in not only extending our knowledge of the area but has also helped us in mapping various parts of the tunnel system that as yet(!)we do not have access to. You are correct about the Vehicle Repair Yard which was on the site of Joseph Williamson's house beneath which is the cavernous Banqueting Hall and the Wine Bins that we explore today.

Many thanks for your message Mike

JM

]