A host of Merseyside sporting icons have backed Liverpool’s bid to host the Commonwealth Games.
Mayor Joe Anderson has officially launched the city’s plans to host the games in 2026 and received backing from several of the region’s most recognisable athletes.
Among them are ex-Liverpool player Jamie Carragher, WBC world champion Tony Bellew, Olympic athlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson and medal-winning gymnast Beth Tweddle.
The bid has also been supported by Sir Richard Leese, the leader of Manchester City Council, who oversaw his own city’s hosting of the Games in 2002.
Mayor Anderson said: “Liverpool is an ambitious city and I believe we have an enormous amount to offer when it comes to hosting an event of this scale which would be an incredibly important catalyst for regeneration, investment and raising the profile of sport.
“The Games will reflect our growing confidence and expertise in organising large events which create memories for a lifetime and bring the world together, with opportunities for people and places across the city region.”
Liverpool may face opposition from Birmingham in their plans to be nominated as the UK’s host city, with a final decision set to be made in 2018.