Tim Hughes looks forward to the return of The Christians

A LIFE-LONG Liverpudlian, Garry Christian still recalls that terrible day in 1989 when 96 Liverpool fans – were killed in the horrific scenes at Hillsborough.

The deaths, during an FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, left a deep scar on Merseyside and on the frontman of The Christians – who responded by performing on a tribute single – a cover of Ferry Cross the Mersey with other famous Scousers, such as Paul McCartney and Holly Johnson – in aid of those affected.

Now, 27 years on, Garry is back with another tribute to the bereaved families. Called Big Red Sky, the song is raising money for the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, and is a highpoint of new album WE.

“Hillsborough was, and is, extremely close to my heart,” says the soulful singer, best known for songs Harvest for the World, Ideal World and Hooverville.

“A life-long LFC fan, I had a few friends that were there on the day. We were asked to record Ferry Across The Mersey, and Big Red Sky was written out of respect for the families who have never stopped fighting and bringing about justice.

“Liverpudlians never forget how they are treated and from day one they wanted the world to know this wasn’t about boisterous fans misbehaving. It was about policemen and men higher up, lying to hide their incompetence and lack of planning – a disgrace.

“Respect, admiration and love goes out to the families whose strength and devotion has been unfaltering for so many years.”

Garry will air the song when he plays the O2 Academy Oxford next Friday in a tour to celebrate their 30th anniversary.

Formed by Garry and his two brothers, Garry is now the only remaining Christian in the line-up.

“A real current gig favourite is by the late Marvin Gaye which is off an earlier album.”He says: “My current band has been with me for over 10 years now. There are six of us: Joey Ankrah on electric guitar; Neil Griffiths on acoustic guitar; Craig Connet on drums; Bobby Kewley on bass; Mike Triggs on keys and obviously me on tambourine and lead vocals.

“Our current set pretty much includes all our greatest hits and people say we sound better than we have ever sounded, so I’m happy with that.

“I’m certainly more relaxed these days and very at home on stage where I’m becoming renowned for my between-song stories. Think Ronnie Corbett but better looking, younger and a lot taller!”

The Christians play the O2 Academy Oxford next Friday, October 28.

Tickets are £23 from ticketweb.co.uk

Album WE is out now