Globe columnist Peter Grant looks forward to a unique Merseybeat Concert in 2020.

WIRRAL talent will dominate a show of Merseybeat legends at Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall next February.

Two of the region's most respected musicians Gary Murphy and Paul Brooks, have pulled the concert together and come up with stunning arrangements of classic, iconic hits from a vast array of household names.

It will feature a star-studded gathering of Sixties Merseybeat names and for the first time they will be backed by the world famous Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Wirral residents Gary and Paul will join Gerry Marsden who is coming out of retirement especially for the event.

Gerry told the Globe: "I always love playing my home town.

"This will be a very special night at a venue that holds fabulous memories for me."

Among others lining up on stage next February 17 will be a who's who of Merseybeat legends:

Mike Pender (The Searchers); Tony Crane and Billy Kinsley (The Merseybeats); Ray Ennis (The Swinging Blue Jeans); Dave Berry (The Cruisers) and Brian 'Saxophone' Jones (The Undertakers).

The personality packed evening will be introduced by Wirral's Billy Butler and - crossing the river Mersey- Ricky Tomlinson.

Mike McCartney - who was part of 60s favourites Scaffold - will also be appearing. As well as being a Wirral cultural ambassador he is now enjoying the success of a boxed set re-issue of his acclaimed 'McGear' album produced by brother Paul.

The 60s theme features music from The Cavern Club Beatles.

Asa Murphy - Radio Merseyside broadcaster and versatile performer - will 'become' Buddy Holly while Julie A. Scott celebrates Cilla Black.

The diverse show will also welcome singer Mia Carragher - daughter of LFC player turned soccer pundit Jamie.

And contributing to the concert will be X Factor's Gary Barker.

Work on an album of the music to be featured in the concert is near completion at Alan Lewis's Glass Studios in Birkenhead.

Both Gary Murphy and Paul Brooks have a long legacy in the music industry.

Gary founded the International Guitar Festival which has been running for 30 triumphant years.

Paul Brooks also has a remarkable career having worked with global stars from Cliff Richard and Pavarotti to Shirley Bassey and Eartha Kitt.

Gerry Marsden summed up the once-in- a-lifetime line-up: "I am looking forward to all the arrangements of the old classic songs that Gary and Paul have put together.

"It is going to be a superb celebration of Merseybeat in 2020."

Tickets from the Phil Box Office.

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