The Beatles Liverpool legacy 'adds £82m to local economy each year'

The Beatles have always been a boon to Liverpool but the Fab Four's legacy continues to add £81.9 million to the city's economy each year, according to new research.

A report commissioned by Liverpool City Council revealed the Beatles "industry" also supports 2,335 jobs, and has "further significant growth potential".

The study was conducted by Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and the University of Liverpool through their shared Institute of Cultural Capital.

Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said welcomed the report's findings.

Beatles attractions in Liverpool include The Beatles Story museum at Albert Dock and a two-hour Magical Mystery bus tour that visits Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields.

Fans can also visit the Cavern Club, where the band played, although the original closed down in the 1970s and was later rebuilt.

Professor Simeon Yates, the lead author of the report, said the legacy of the Beatles appeared set to boost Liverpool's economy for years to come, but warned the city would need to ensure visitors had a positive experience.

"In all the interviews we conducted there was a strong belief that the city would go on attracting visitors through its Beatles connection long into the future," Professor Yates, who is based at Institute of Cultural Capital, said.

"However, underpinning the economic impact and the cultural value of The Beatles heritage is a positive experience for fans, visitors and citizens, and the city needs to maintain standards in its efforts to promote this legacy."

The University of Liverpool's Dr Mike Jones, said: "We need to convey the core point that Liverpool was not just the birthplace of The Beatles, it was their cradle; what they learned as Liverpudlians they took into the world."

The study was based partly on interviews with those connected with The Beatles industry including business owners, employees and tourists.