Love is in the air at the top of the tower
Even a wild and windy Friday in November can set the scene for romance as this Liverpool couple proved last month.
Matt Fedigan arranged an extraordinary birthday surprise for his girlfriend Maria Gillon by popping the question at the top of Liverpool Cathedral’s tower on Friday 20th November.
The elements had threatened to scupper the plan with high winds and rain forecast but with a little help from cathedral staff who were in on the surprise, the couple were treated to the slightly more sheltered Heritage Tour route up the tower. This exclusive behind the scenes path took them up to the Corona Gallery and out onto the cathedral roof, climbing through restricted access areas whilst still being able to see the spectacular city vista. Matt got down on one knee whilst sheltered from the weather in the hidden turret area and proposed. We are delighted to report Maria said yes!
The couple have been together 4 years and are both Merseyside locals, Matt originally from Prenton is a charted building surveyor at Domec Facilities Management and Building Services and Maria from Childwall is a GP. They had their first date in Hannah’s bar on Leece St in the city centre and then a meal in the Clove Hitch on Hope Street.
With the city of Liverpool being so close to their hearts, the iconic structure of Liverpool Cathedral, a striking feature of the skyline, seemed the perfect place for Matt to choose to ask Maria the most important question of their lives. Matt said “It’s the best view over Liverpool. We came to the cathedral on Valentine’s Day a few years ago and had a wonderful time. It made sense to come back here.”
The occasion will be forever marked by the addition of a personalised brick in the people’s path that reads: MATT AND MARIA ENGAGED HERE 2015 X
The Cathedral’s People’s Path is steadily growing as locals and visitors alike have chosen to commemorate important occasions in a unique and significant way.
Matt said “It reminded me of the locks that were until recently put on the bridge in Paris. I liked the idea that you can put a mark down and it will be nice to be able to return to in the future.”
Maria said “It was a complete shock. I thought we were just having a trip up the tower and when I saw the weather this morning I suggested to Matt that we leave it today but he said there was a special indoor tour we could take instead! I didn’t suspect a thing until we got to the secret turret where Matt got down on one knee.”
After Maria said yes, the couple enjoyed a glass of champagne while taking in the view over the city before meeting up with family afterwards to share the good news.
For more information on buying a brick in the Peoples Path or booking your place on a Heritage Tour please contact Tina Morris on 0151 702 7226 tina.morris@liverpoolcathedral.org.uk