The Beatles had rare days off on 9 and 10 September 1963, although John Lennon and Paul McCartney did have one engagement: they attended a luncheon of the Variety Club of Great Britain.
The luncheon took place at the Savoy Hotel in London. Lennon and McCartney received the award for Top Vocal Group of the Year, a sure sign that The Beatles were rapidly becoming establishment figures.
The Variety Club was the UK branch of Variety, the Children’s Charity, which raises money for disadvantaged children. From it inception in Pittsburgh in 1927 it has had strong links with the world of showbusiness.
Page last updated: 25 January 2012