St Peter's Church - 50 Years On

On 6th July, 1957, John Lennon was introduced to Paul McCartney by their mutual friend Ivan Vaughan. Within a couple of weeks, Paul was invited to join The Quarrymen, and the rest, as they say, is history. (Photo courtesy of Geoff Rhind)

50 years on, the Quarrymen were invited back to St Peters to celebrate that eventful meeting. From the original line-up of John Lennon, Pete Shotton, Rod Davis, Eric Griffiths, Colin Hanton and Len Garry, John and Eric are no longer with us. Pete Shotton now lives in happy retirement in Ireland, and so it is left to Rod, Colin and Len to carry on playing for fun.

On stage from left to right - Len Garry, Rod Davis and Colin Hanton

They have been joined by John Duff Lowe (right) who would play piano with the Quarrymen occasionally, and cut the famous record at Percy Phillips studio in Kensington.

Merseycats, via Mike Byrne, were asked to provide bands for the Sunday celebrations at St Peters on the grounds of Bishop Martin School, which now occupies St Peters Field where The Quarrymen played all those years ago.

Of course, this was a great opportunity to support a great event, plus spread the name of Merseycats too.

A report from Wally
Although the event started with a heavy rain fall and thunder, the Woolton Show from an Ambrose Mogg flag flying point of view was a hugh success. Once again thanks must go to the dedication of the bands and people who took part.

First band consisting of David Blackstone, Jimmy Kelly on guitar, Keith Turner on bass, Frank Hopley on keyboard and Niall on drums.

Second band on was Tempest (left) with Mal Price, Mike Byrne on keyboard,Bernie Prescott on lead,Wally Shepard on
bass, vocalist drummer Bob Gharrity,

The third band Searchin, Andy, Mike, Steve Alan and Dave, brought a pleasing end to Merseycats contribution to the Woolton Show.

Sales on Merseycats merchandise went very well thanks to Kay and Krystyn Mountain for attending the stall all day.

Sadly the only real upset of the day was Dave Blackstone's ambulance trip. but I heard when I enquired later he had signed himself out of the Royal, and thankfully he seems to be ok. A donation from the organisers of the show to Merseycats was gratefully received by the treasurer. We have also been informed that due to the popularity of Merseycats input, that the show planned for next year will give Merseycats 2 spots on the programme.

Again I would like to thank the sound crew, Stephen, Niall and Josh for their input and unstinting support, and an extra thanks to Josh for modelling the umbrella sales, many thanks to all who turned up and supported.

Wally Shepard

Niall and Josh

Photos supplied by Dave Bedford, Frank Hopley and Cliuff Howarth

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