Teenager is bailed over firework that hit city landmark

A TEENAGER has appeared in court accused of causing £10,000 of damage to the Royal Liver Building with a firework thrown during celebrations over Liverpool FC winning the Premier League title.

Matthew Egglesden, 19, of Scarisbrick, Lancashire, is accused of committing arson intending to destroy or damage the building or being reckless at doing so.

The fire damage to the historic building was among various incidents on Friday night as thousands of fans gathered at Pier Head to mark the club becoming champions of England for the first time in 30 years.

Yesterday, Thomas Hanlon, prosecuting, said a firework hit the front of the building, dropped down and then ignited before it was later extinguished by fire crews.

Glass was shattered and damage was caused to a first floor balcony, the decking below and stonework, Liverpool Magistrates’ Court heard.

Christopher Mantle, defending, said: “The family contacted the police on the Saturday. He comes from a very respectable family. His father saw the image, recognised his son and collectively it was thought they should immediately contact the police.”

He said that no plea to the charge of arson would be indicated at this stage. Egglesden also faces a second charge of throwing a firework in a public place.

Egglesden, of Boundary Farm, Turning Lane, was released from custody on bail ahead of his next appearance at Liverpool Crown Court on July 27. Conditions of bail are that the defendant must reside at his home address and not enter the city of Liverpool ahead of the scheduled court date.