Liverpool on the rise again?

A young footballer training alone at first light yesterday morning on a pitch in the Croxteth area of Liverpool. Like the place itself, his story is one of hope and redemption, not just for the aspiring star, but for the area - notorious for poverty and crime - and the city as a whole.

George Fletcher (17) symbolises not only hope, but what perseverance can achieve. His story is remarkable and has taken him from the despair of losing a friend as a result of a tragic crime to the brink of Olympic success in a few short years.

And the added ingredient to the story is that George has overcome disability to get to where he is now - a member of the British football team, set to represent his country at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.

George's story mirrors that of the community in Croxteth - long blighted by neglect and indifference from politicians and people alike. Now the community is fighting back and giving itself a sporting chance of success in the future.

To read the full article, which appeared in the Independent on Sunday and featured my photos of George (on the cover) and other members of the community, please go to http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/special-report-a-story-of-hope-in-modern-britain-7668409.html