LIVERPOOL.- Photographs which capture the wit, warmth and energy of Merseybeat group, Gerry and the Pacemakers on their rapid rise to fame, went on display at the Museum of Liverpool from 14 July to 7 January 2018.

Gerry and the Pacemakers: Hit Makers and Record Breakers is a new exhibition of more than 30 images by local photographers, Graham Spencer and Peter Kaye.

Singer, Gerry Marsden said: “To see these images takes me back to those incredible days. From meeting fans to performing at the Cavern and photoshoots around Liverpool, they give a glimpse of what an exciting time it was.

“It is an honour to have the exhibition on display at the Museum of Liverpool which celebrates Liverpool as a hotbed of outstanding talent and creativity.”

Following The Beatles’ incredible success in 1963, the Merseybeat explosion catapulted local groups to national fame, in particular Gerry and the Pacemakers. In just 18 months, the group had six British top ten hits and were the first act ever to reach number one in the UK singles charts with their first three releases.

The exhibition includes evocative images of Gerry and the Pacemakers performing to enthusiastic crowds in the Cavern Club. The photographs capture Gerry Marsden’s charisma and connection with the crowd in the heady atmosphere of the world’s most famous cellar.

Arguably the group’s most enduring song, Ferry Cross the Mersey, is one of nine original tracks Gerry wrote for the film of the same name. Manager, Brian Epstein had been keen to capitalise on the group’s early success and the film is a fictionalised account of their remarkable story. The exhibition features a number of photographs taken on set during the film’s concert sequences at the Locarno Ballroom, Liverpool.

A selection of promotional images of the group larking about around St George’s Hall capture the group’s abundant confidence and sense of humour. Other images reveal the boys at their touring peak as well as relaxing with fellow Liverpool star, Cilla Black.

Claire Hunter, Assistant Curator of Urban History, said: “Gerry and the Pacemakers: Hit Makers and Record Breakers is a great insight into a group who achieved incredible success. These photographs explore not only their significant accomplishments but also the group’s enduring bond to Liverpool, which more than five decades later, still has a role in the global image of the city.”