Green Beatles take root in city

The figures took 18 months to cultivate into the band

The most famous band in the world have been immortalised in greenery in their home city.

Life-size topiary figures of the Beatles are taking centre stage at Liverpool's South Parkway.

The fab four figures have been cultivated as part of a series of public art exhibitions planned for the travel interchange.

Merseytravel has funded the topiary which was commissioned from artists in Tuscany and cultivated on the Wirral.

'Imaginative design'

Steve Nicholson, director of the Bigger Plant Company in Meols, said: "Topiary is one of our specialities and we haven a long established relationship with Tuscany whose artists are the best in the world.

"They were a little surprised when we asked them to make the Beatles, it is the first time they have ever received a request like this!

"It was a real challenge but the results are fantastic."

Merseytravel has recently taken ownership of the Beatles Story visitor attraction and announced plans to create a new attraction at its new £10.5m Pier Head ferry terminal.

The figures took 18 months to cultivate into George, Ringo, John and Paul.

Neil Scales, chief executive and director general of Merseytravel, said: "It's an imaginative design and reinforces what we are trying to do to bring life and creativity, through public art, across the public transport network.

"It links nicely with our other plans for the Pier Head. But we also hope they will become visitor attractions themselves!"