The Beatles: New statue of John, Paul, George and Ringo unveiled in Liverpool

A new statue of The Beatles has been unveiled at Pier Head in Liverpool, England. The statue depicts the rock band's members, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, walking along the city's waterfront.

Cast in resin and clay by sculptor Andy Edwards, the statue has been donated by Liverpool's Cavern Club, from where the band's popularity journey in the UK began. The new statue marks the 50th anniversary of the Beatles's last performance in Liverpool, where it was formed in 1960.

The statue was unveiled by John Lennon's sister Julia Baird. Julia said: "I am honoured to be unveiling this statue in our wonderful city of Liverpool," she said in a statement. "It stands in loving memory of the best band in the world; the band that leapt from the Cavern stage to world-wide recognition."

Baird added: "The timing reflects the 50 years since The Beatles final public appearance in Liverpool, at The Empire on the 5 December 1965. I was present at that event and am proud to be at the unveiling."

The club said it were people of the city for whom they brought the statue of the Beatles to the waterfront. "Its [Liverpool's] most famous four sons have played a pivotal role in bringing people here. We are proud that we have been able to finance this project on behalf of fans from all over the world," the club's director, Bill Heckle said.

Councillor O'Byrne added: "Talk to anyone in or outside the city about our history and you can guarantee The Beatles will get a mention, so it feels right that this sculpture of these iconic men stands proudly on our iconic waterfront."

The Beatles statue is an adaptation of an actual photo shoot of the band members at the waterfront in 1963. The statue reflects even the same attire, the club said.