The English Heritage plaques, which mark homes of the famous, will be on display in Liverpool later this year.

A spokeswoman for the organisation said that Merseyside was chosen because of the significant contribution made by its sons and daughters in all walks of life.

World War I poet Wilfred Owen lived in Birkenhead

Other notables nominated by local people for the honour are toymaker Frank Hornby, trade union activist Bessie Bradock, and shipping magnate and founder of the White Star Line, Henry Ishmay.

The scheme was launched on This Morning by ex-Brookside actress Sue Johnston and TV celebrity Loyd Grossman, who said he was: "Mesmerised by the level of human achievement that Liverpool had produced over the century."

Former Beatle John Lennon will be the first to have his plaque unveiled but a location has not been finalised. The semi-detached house he shared with his Aunt Mimi in Menlove Avenue in the Allerton area of the city is among the locations under consideration.

The scheme has been welcomed by local residents, including 55-year-old Irene Hogg who lives in a Victorian semi in Maghull which was once home to legendary toy-maker Frank Hornby.

"I am quite proud of my house" said Mrs Hogg. "It doesn't bother me that tourists may come round to visit."