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The Liverpool Tapestry:
People, Places and Passions
“
Lewis’ store, and the statue of “Fred” on the corner has always
been an affectionate landmark for anyone who has grown up in
Liverpool or has lived here for any length of time. As a teenager,
I was ‘stood up’ for the first time under Fred, but I survived.
Unfortunately Lewis’s didn’t. Gradually the number of sales floors
reduced, and when a short-term tenant left the building, Lewis’s
was once more under threat. Whilst consultations and plans to save
it were underway, all kinds of architectural treasures were being
uncovered after spending years unused, unloved and covered in
dust. The Fifth Floor Café was one such treasure.
I can remember being treated to lunch there by my aunt during a
school holiday. Those used to eating out at any and every chance
nowadays would not understand what a treat this was for us. I
tasted sweetcorn for the first time in Lewis’s. It was so exotic after
the ordinary vegetables that we either grew on the allotment or got
from a tin. Lewis’s as a department store hasn’t survived, but it is
hoped that in the buildings reincarnation some of theses treasures
will be preserved.”
Lewis’s Restaurant
Designed and stitched by Sheilagh Birch