Venue where The Beatles 'played for first time' at risk of being lost forever

The venue where The Beatles first played a concert under their iconic name is at risk of being lost forever. Neston Civic Hall dates back to 1902 and started out as a Red Cross Hospital during the First World War.

It later became a centre for community events and, under the name The Institute, played host to The Beatles for six gigs in 1960 – for which they were paid £10. The band had been known as The Silver Beatles at the time but appeared in a review of the event as The Beatles - said to be the first time their famous name was used.

The Heswall & Neston News & Advertiser's review of the first concert stated: “A Liverpool rhythm group, The Beatles, made their debut at Neston Institute on Thursday night”.

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A campaign has now been launched to raise £240,000 for vital repairs and a new roof at the hall on Hinderton Road. If the money is not found, the hall could face closure as a community space.

The drive is part of the Love Neston campaign, which will feature community events, support services and wider fundraising activity aimed at promoting the town, found on the Wirral peninsula. Many community groups use the hall and it is Neston's largest commercial space.

The campaign was launched on November 2 at the 'When I’m 64 Beatles' event, which was held at the hall. A whole range of fundraising events will be further unveiled for 2025, with the programme being supported by Neston Community Youth Centre.

Rachel Furey, chief executive of Neston Community Youth Centre (NCYC) said: “This beautiful building has been a centre of the community for many years, but we run the serious risk of losing it forever if we can’t raise the money we need for repairs.”

A range of sponsorship options will be available, ranging from buying a single tile for £10, to larger packages for individual or business sponsors who wish to have their names displayed in the civic hall. You can donate to the campaign on JustGiving by clicking here.