Globe writer Peter Grant visits a soaring, inspirational installation at Liverpool Cathedral.

'PEACE be with you' . . . is the inviting message from Liverpool Cathedral with help from some unique doves - 18,000 of them.

Thousands of visitors are expected to flock in as the much-awaited Peace Doves has opened after a postponement due to COVID-19.

The mass participation art installation, created by renowned sculptor and artist Peter Walker, features more than 18,000 of the lovingly made paper birds suspended in the Cathedral.

The installation, which is accompanied by a soundscape from composer David Harper, was originally scheduled to open last May but was postponed due to the pandemic.

Wirral Globe:

Peace doves

However, before lockdown, visitors to the cathedral, along with local school children and community groups were invited to write messages of peace, hope and love onto thousands of paper doves.

The Wirral Globe has a message up there, too, written by me during the creation of the stunning artwork which sees the peaceful messenger doves rising on ribbons.

Dean, Rev. Canon Dr Sue Jones. Sue said: "This artwork builds on previous installations and enables us to continue our mission to be a place of Encounter.

Wirral Globe:

Peace doves

"We look forward to welcoming people to the Cathedral and we hope that you will encounter peace and the space to reflect on the past year.

"We feel enormously grateful to be able to host this amazing installation at Liverpool Cathedral."

Peter Walker added: "What I've always found when I've been into Liverpool and been up to the cathedral is, it really is a community place.

"I think having a work where the community has written on these doves and thousands of children have participated in this project is a really important thing to be doing at this time."

Wirral Globe:

Peace doves

As well as Peace Doves, visitors to the cathedral will also be able to view the return of the popular Angel Wings moving light projection, created by Luxmuralis.

Visitors can take photos and videos in front of the shoulder height, angel wings that pulsate and change colour to a curated soundtrack.

Another new, interactive art installation also going on display is Peace to ourselves.

Wirral Globe:

Visitors will be asked to place a button inside the shape of a giant dove and take a moment to contemplate the past year and remember those who have lost their lives.

The installations will run until August 31, from 11am to 3pm.

They are free to view but, due to COVID regulations, bookings must be made in advance.

Details from www.liverpoolcathedral.org