Bernie Carroll obituary

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Bernie Carroll, a prolific writer of letters to the Liverpool Echo newspaper, passed away at the age of 75. Throughout a span of about 40 years, Bernie was known for firing off four or five letters each week, earning him the moniker of “the most opinionated man in Liverpool.” This title was bestowed upon him by an Echo reporter, a label he proudly embraced.

Aside from his letter-writing exploits, Bernie was also a prominent figure in the Liverpool School of Language, Music, Dream and Pun during the 1970s. This group served as a creative hub for experimental actors, writers, musicians, and free-thinkers, with Bernie establishing himself as one of its maverick members. He shared many mischievous adventures with renowned actor, director, and writer Ken Campbell, including running an underwater theatre at Liverpool University swimming baths where performers donned full costumes and breathed through snorkels.

Born in Wavertree, Liverpool, Bernie’s upbringing was unconventional, given his father’s occupation as a civil servant and his mother’s German heritage. Against the expectations of pursuing desk-bound government work like his father, Bernie charted his own path. His diverse work experience included stints as a tiler, chef, gardener, bouncer, and upholsterer. Eventually, he founded his own business centered around creating and selling postcards and posters.

In his youth, Bernie immersed himself in the artistic scene of Liverpool, engaging in street music performances and artistic endeavors. By his 30s, he found his voice through the letters he penned to the Liverpool Echo, expressing his grievances with society on a daily basis. Bernie tied the knot with Steph Dodds, a fashion designer, in 1994, and together, they navigated the world of postcards and posters. Despite winding down his business operations in recent years, Bernie leaves behind a legacy survived by Steph, his niece Michelle, and great-nephew Jake

Read the full article from The Guardian here: Read More

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