We will use the Liverpool Boat Show to build upon the huge equity accumulated during '08 to cement Liverpool's global position as the UK's most recognisable and positive city brand.

Michael D Parker CBE,
Chairman, Liverpool Vision, and former Chief Executive of BNFL

For the last 250 years, seamen have described Liverpool as the best run ashore of any seaport in the world.

Originally, they were perhaps not thinking of shopping at Boodles or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant. But the phenomenon that gave rise to the run ashore soubriquet - Liverpool's famous nightlife - is as vibrant now as it has ever been.

The city's restaurants, nightclubs, theatres and live music venues offer a range of diversions to suit all tastes. Then there's the world-famous Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, led by the charismatic Vasily Petrenko, and, of course, the Beatles-inspired bars and gig venues of Mathew Street, home to the Cavern Club.

A stone's throw from our venue sits the international Echo Arena & BT Convention Centre, which will play host to the Labour Party Conference in 2011 and regularly stages performances by global stars such as Beyonce, Elton John, Coldplay, Kings of Leon and the Killers.

In addition to the famous football teams, guests and visitors can avail themselves to one of the Open Championship courses at Royal Birkdale, Royal Lytham and Royal Liverpool, which are part of England's Golf Coast, or take in the horse racing at Chester, Haydock or Aintree.

The city's recent renaissance has also delivered a clutch of quality hotels, with boutique destinations such as Hope Street Hotel (described by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the coolest 50 hotels in the world) and large luxury brands like the Hilton thriving in the new Liverpool.