Key Points:
- Spellow Hub fire
- Liverpool community support
- Library fire fundraising
- Far-right violence Liverpool
- Community resilience
- Rebuilding community centers
- Liverpool protests aftermath
- Spellow Hub reopening
- Local MP Dan Carden
- Support for Spellow Hub
The Spellow Hub, a vibrant community center in one of the UK’s most deprived areas, has become the latest casualty of the violence that erupted in Liverpool over the weekend. The hub, which had only reopened last year, was more than just a library; it provided education, employment advice, parenting classes, and access to council services.
Hub manager Debbie Moore recalled the excitement of the community when the center reopened: “People were itching to get back into the building. The area has got its buzz back.” But on Saturday, the Spellow Hub was set ablaze, leaving behind charred walls and debris. “It’s just devastating,” Debbie said, standing amidst the ruins, not far from Everton’s Goodison Park.
The chaos began with an afternoon protest at the city’s Pier Head, near the iconic ‘Three Graces’ buildings. What started as a peaceful demonstration in sympathy for the families of three girls stabbed to death in Southport quickly turned into a scene of turmoil. Chants of “Tommy Robinson” and “stop the boats” replaced messages of condolence, escalating into violence. Cans and bottles were thrown, and a lone police officer was swarmed, pushed off their motorbike, and beaten.
Families visiting the docked Disney Dream cruise ship fled as rioters tore through the city center, even looting a phone repair shop by ripping off its shutter. The unrest didn’t stay confined to the city center. As night fell, crowds gathered on County Road, near a mosque that far-right groups had targeted on social media.
Riot police faced bricks and fireworks as they tried to control the violence. Amidst the chaos, local shops were damaged, and the Spellow Hub was set on fire. “We’re just seeing what we can salvage,” staff member Mark said on Sunday as he surveyed the damage. Although the building remained structurally intact, the books were ruined, and the space rendered unusable.
Local Labour MP Dan Carden condemned the violence, blaming far-right groups for inciting racism and Islamophobia. “These criminals care nothing for our community,” he told Metro. “We are witnessing racist and Islamophobic hatred, instigated by organized far-right groups online, spill onto our streets and into mindless violence.” He emphasized that those involved in the destruction did not represent the community and praised residents for their cleanup efforts.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. A GoFundMe campaign to replace some of the destroyed books initially set a modest target of £500. To date, it has raised over £130,000, with donations from public figures like celebrity chef Nigella Lawson, who contributed £500, and writer Frank Cottrell-Boyce, known for the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
One donor, Virginia Schroder, reminisced about her childhood spent at the Spellow Lane library: “Spellow Lane library was my local library when I was growing up. It meant so much to me. It was a wonderful place to go – a safe, free space which opened up so many interests for me. I hope this fundraiser will enable it to do the same again for the people of Walton.”
Support has poured in from various sources. Much Ado Books in East Sussex donated £1,000, and a public library in Canada offered assistance. A major UK publisher has promised new books, according to Lord Mayor of Liverpool Richard Kemp.
Mr. Carden highlighted the broader context of the violence, noting the long-term decline and cuts that have disproportionately affected areas like County. “We must set a new course for people, especially young people – one that provides good education, housing, work, and prosperity. Addressing the economic conditions that create fertile ground for division is crucial to bring people together, build communities resilient to hate, and close down the spaces in which the far-right can organize.”
The Spellow Hub’s story is a stark reminder of how vital community centers are, especially in disadvantaged areas. They offer not just services but also hope, connection, and a sense of belonging. The swift and generous response from both local residents and supporters from afar underscores the hub’s importance to the community.
As rebuilding efforts begin, the hope is that the Spellow Hub will rise from the ashes stronger than before. The overwhelming support serves as a testament to the community’s resilience and determination to stand against hate and division.
In the face of adversity, the spirit of the Spellow Hub and its community shines through, illustrating that while buildings can be burned, the bonds of community and the desire for a better future remain unbreakable.