THE Bootleg Beatles have been around considerably longer than the Beatles themselves.

The tribute band will be celebrating with a UK tour, significant as 2015 is also the 50th anniversary of the release of Ticket To Ride.

The Bootlegs have taken that song title to heart, having performed Beatles hits across the world with uncanny accuracy.

Formed from the original cast of London’s West End hit show, Beatlemania, the band became an institution in their own right, re-creating the sound and style of the Fab Four.

l The Bootleg Beatles are at St George’s Hall on December 10. For tickets, call (01274) 432000.