The Beatles became one of the most popular and influential bands of their time. While Beatlemania swept across the world, it was in Liverpool that they made their names. Their enduring appeal was highlighted again this week as the band returned to the spotlight.
New Beatles Story plans
Huge new plans will see The Beatles Story in the Albert Dock close, move and be revamped into a new multi-million-pound development opening at the former St John's Market site. The St John's Beacon is set to become a Yellow Submarine-themed viewing experience.
Iconic Merseyside moments
In a series of photos, the ECHO looks back at some of the band's iconic moments in Merseyside. Whether it was on the balcony of the Town Hall on Castle Street, holding a press conference at Speke Airport (now John Lennon Airport), or posing for photos at NEMS music shop, The Beatles always made time for their home city.
The photos include The Beatles posing at NEMS (North End Music Stores) in 1964, a shop owned by their manager Brian Epstein. Another shows the band during their early days in 1963 alongside fellow Brian Epstein managed bands including Gerry & The Pacemakers and Billy J Kramer & The Dakotas.
Premiere and performances
John Lennon and Paul McCartney wave to fans as they make their way through Liverpool to the northern premiere of A Hard Day's Night. The Beatles also waved to fans from the balcony of the Town Hall ahead of the premiere. Another photo captures the band enjoying a cigarette break on the balcony of the Empire Theatre on 8 November 1964 before playing there that night.
The collection also includes an eight-page souvenir tribute to the Beatles from 1964, the band stopping to sign an autograph for a young fan before flying from Speke Airport to the Channel Islands, and Paul and Linda on-board a Royal Irish Ferry on the River Mersey in 1979.
