Memories of life on Liverpool docks

Mar 11 2010 by Peter Grant, Maghull and Aintree Star

JACK Overgage, who worked on the docks for 46 years, says: "Dockers were – and are – 'wonderful characters.' "

That's why a new publication struck a chord with Jack and all those people he worked with and whom he still keeps in touch with.

‘‘I worked there for 46 years and was nicknamed The Durango Kid – a Western hero.

‘‘We all had nicknames those who worked on the docks and those who worked with them as the book rightly points out.

‘‘Some need explaining – others like High Noon (I am Shooting Off at Twelve) don't.

‘‘But they were all real.

The Dockers bookazine, stresses Jack who lives in Crosby, celebrates the Docker as a "very real, yet legendary figure."

‘‘This book is perfect," he says

‘‘Every word in it is true.

‘‘Dockers – Their Life and Legacy on the Liverpool Waterfront is an insight into the lives of men who were the backbone of the city.

And it is also a tribute to the women and the families who supported them through the financial struggles – through thick and thin."

This new, glossy picture heritage special pays tribute to their life and times.

The docker remains a personification of Liverpool.

Comedian Mickey Finn says: "We bow to their humour; wit ; wisdom; strength of purpose and their key characteristic... loyalty."

International comedian and TV star Tom O’ Connor also praises them.

‘‘Best university in the world.’’ says the former Bootle-born teacher.

The Beatles were also inspired by the docks. it's where they picked up their famous thumbs-up salute.

David Jason – known as Del Boy – studied hard to be a docker for his role in Jim Hitchmough's Emmy award winning drama Bullion Boys when dockers looked after the nation's gold.

Cushty!

Marlon Brando was a Hollywood docker in the 1954 film On the Waterfront about corruption in New Jersey. So dockers are global, but especially Liverpool dockers.

In this celebratory account Liverpool's ongoing spirit is praised by the critics.

Radio DJs Billy Butler and award-winning Roger Phillips say it captures the 'essence of these great people.'

‘‘They are part and parcel of Liverpool history,’’ says Billy, who spent time working on the docks.

‘‘It's great to see their legendary status recognised,’’ says Roger Phillips.