by Glenn Mitchell
Well what can I say but what a fantastic weekend. I've had so many text messages, e-mails, and even voice mail, saying how much everyone enjoyed themselves. Some of the comments were that the weekend was full of colour, fun, laughter and togetherness all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Irish sea and the Welsh hills and countryside.
The soundtrack for the weekend was the music of The Beatles, brought to you by a selection of the finest musicians here in the UK who all brought an individual style in their presentation of the music of the Fab Four.
From the early days of The Beatles' touring days we had 'The Cavernites' and 'The Rockits'. It was hard to sit down as both bands rocked Friday night away.
Saturday started off right at the beginning of it all, with the sound of Fifties Rock and Roll by 'The Retrobeats' who provided the influences that shaped The Beatles, from Elvis to Buddy to Little Richard.
Next on the journey from those early days right through to Beatlemania, was a tribute to Two Liverpool Teenagers who started the whole thing off: John Winston Lennon and James Paul McCartney. Gary Gibson gave an outstanding performance covering John's love of early Rock and Roll to his classic hits both with The Beatles and solo. Then it happened - John invited Paul to sing with him, and the two of them rocked to 'Get Back' as Neil Tudor joined Gary. Neil continued on to showcase Paul's classic songs both from The Beatles and 'Wings', making a truly great day's entertainment.
Sunday was dedicated to the late, great Victor Spinetti who sadly passed from us only a few days ago. A fantastic interview was played on the big screen of Victor in full flow being interviewed about his time in The Beatles films. This was followed by the showing of a special edition of the 'Magical Mystery Tour' film.
The afternoon continued with a talk by Beatles author, David Bedford, and historian, Kevin Roach, who were joined by Tony Bramwell. Tony had already had the audience in stiches of laughter when he had hosted a special video presentation of 'My Life with The Beatles' on Saturday morning, showing the Beatles promotional films and talking about how they were made on a shoestring budget. Tony now joined David and Kevin and they talked about Liverpool and its connections to North Wales and the start of The Beatles first tours which started along the North Wales coast.
It was then time for another afternoon of live music and we started with a real treat. The sun came out in time for the Beatles barbecue! As people were enjoying the lovely food we were first entertained by the all female Beatles tribute 'The Beatelles' from Liverpool who gave a breathtaking performance, presenting outstanding interpretations of The Beatles music. The applause at times was deafening.
Our last band for the afternoon was a new band not seen before at any Beatles convention, and it was a pleasure to have them make their debut at 'Daytripper Weekender'. All the way from Kendle came 'The Beatle5'; fantastic musicians who played a cross selection of The Beatles music to great appreciation from the audience. This is a band you will definitely see again!
The evening concert was the grand finale and for me there was never any doubt in my mind that there could be any other band good enough to headline the weekend. From Liverpool, we had 'The Mersey Beatles' who performed the whole of their acclaimed theatre show.
With four costume changes covering the whole of The Beatles' career, their show was stunning a visual and audio delight.
The show ended after midnight to a well-deserved standing ovation and cheers that all but took the roof off the hotel!
Three days and nights of Fab Four Fun in the sun, and a splendid time was had by all!
I personally would like to thank the hotel staff at The Beaches Hotel, who were highly praised by all who attended. Thank you for making everyone so welcome to North Wales; you did Prestatyn proud. Thanks also to the special guests and exhibitors, and most of all thank you to the fans who are now friends.
If you have never been to this part of the country before, as many of you had not, I hope you will come again. There is always a warm welcome in North Wales!
We look forward to seeing you next year for 'Daytripper Weekender' 2013 on the 5th -7th of July. Bookings are already being taken. Click here for more details!
All photographs c. Stuart Homer Photography Ltd and used here with his permission. DO NOT download or reproduce without the express permission of the copyright holder.
For more details on Stuart Homer Photography Ltd, and to see more of his fabulous photos from the weekend, click here
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