Nearly 46 years after The Beatles’ final concert in Bradford, Haworth artist and film-maker Jean McEwan wants to stage a week-long spring festival celebrating the Fab Four called PS I Love You.

Jean, 39, said: “I am a huge Beatles fan and I was fascinated to learn about their connection with Bradford. The band was bottom of the bill when they first played in the city; I am desperate to hear from anyone who was at that gig.

“Fans will have amazing memories to share and may well have treasured tickets or photographs which I and many other fans out there would love to see.”

Between February 2, 1963, and October 9, 1964, John, Paul, George and Ringo played shows at The Gaumont cinema.

They arrived in early 1963 as one of seven support acts on the Helen Shapiro package tour, singing three numbers – Chains, A Taste Of Honey and Keep Your Hands Off My Baby.

When they came back on Saturday, December 21, that year, their second LP (they were not called ‘albums’ until much later) With The Beatles, came out and shot to the top of the charts. They were here to preview their Christmas show, which went to London’s Astoria Cinema for 17 shows.

The Beatles’ final appearance in Bradford, on John Lennon’s 24th birthday, marked the opening of the band’s Great British tour. This time, seven acts supported them. The ten numbers they performed included seven Lennon and McCartney compositions such as Can’t Buy Me Love, I Wanna Be Your Man and A Hard Day’s Night.

“The Beatles had such a huge influence on our culture that extends far beyond music, and I want to explore that.

“The band had a huge democratic appeal but were also very avant-garde, and I am hoping the programme will reflect that,” Jean added.

Included in the programme is a living re-enactment of Bed Peace, a Beatles quiz and artwork dedicated to the song Strawberry Fields Forever.

Bed Peace, along with Bagism, were publicity events by John Lennon and Yoko Ono and had nothing to do with the Beatles as a band. Strawberry Field was a home for orphans located beyond the back garden of the semi-detached in Menlove Avenue, Woolton, Liverpool, where John lived with his Aunt Mimi. Fans will have the chance to take part in Karaoke Beatles and witness traditional Indian live music. There will be Beatles-themed crafts and live music and performances from special guests.

The Gaumont, of course, became the Odeon, currently being considered for demolition.

Jean said: “Just as fans recently tried to save Abbey Road Studios in London, Bradfordians are desperately trying to save the Odeon’s rich history; it feels a poignant time to celebrate the band’s appearances in the city.

“It is the perfect opportunity for people to record their memories of such an exciting event.

“I don’t know if there is a Bradford Beatles Fan Club out there, but this could be the start of one. Anyone, young or old, is welcome.”

PS I Love You is planned to run at Bradford Playhouse between April 27 and May 1. Anyone with a story or memorabilia from the three Beatles’ shows can contact Jean on Jeanm70@hotmail.com.