On July 7, 2018, Mike Taylor visited the Church Hall. He told met that he had worked at the Odeon cinema in Liverpool, and that he was the projectionist for the Liverpool premiere of A Hard Day’s Night on July 10, 1964.

He said that they’d gone to the cinema during the day to get everything set up and ready, and had planned to go out for some tea before the film screening in the evening. However, because of the crowds, and Mike mentioned the screaming girls, the cinema staff were all trapped inside. He said that none of them really minded because he remembered there being a great atmosphere and that it was quite fun!

John Lennon clearly minded, though! Mike told me that John appeared in the projection room with a case of beer for the staff by way of apology for the inconvenience. It was a really kind and thoughtful gesture, and Mike said that it meant a lot to all of them. Mike also told me that one of the other people — and no, I’m not going to name them here but Mike did tell me who it was! — made a comment about the cost of the beer and John, according to Mike replied, “don’t worry, it’s coming out of my pocket.”

I think that’s a lovely story and a great reminder of John’s kind heart and generosity!