MANCHESTER POP TRAIL

LAST week’s look at a contract between The Hollies and their residency at the Cavern, Liverpool, was queried by a couple of readers, asking who was the manager at he time?

The fact it had been signed by Allan Cheetham appears to confirm his status as group manager in 1963. Signed at an important stage in the groups career, it was the Cavern where they were picked up by Parlophone A&R man, Ron Richards, the man who gave them an audition at London EMI and secured them a record contract.

Cheetham’s office address was given as The Toggery in Mersey Square which was owned by Michael Cohen. This is where the confusion lies, as it appears Cheetham rented an office above the boutique and I can confirm their was no co-ownership of either the group or shop at this point. Although, in mid-1963, there was a managerial change with Cohen replacing Cheetham on purely business grounds. Whatever occurred, it’s significant that Allan’s signature appeared on this document for all us Mancs to treasure.

Following a change of manager, Cohen formed The Hollies Ltd to look after the groups affairs as records began to be released, however, another change of personnel was on the horizon by the time of the groups third record, Stay.

The Hollies drummer, Don Rathbone, was to be replaced by Bobby Elliott from Shane Fenton and the Fentones. The story behind this is remembered by Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits fame. He recalls seeing both Allan Clarke and Graham Nash in the audience watching Bobby perform with the Fentones in Urmston. This could only have been at Urmston Baths where the Rolling Stones made their historic appearance in November 1963.

This has a special moment in the Hollies history - was it the place where the invite to join the group appears to have taken place? Can anyone confirm if this moment occurred at Urmston Baths?

To conclude, Michael Cohen went on to serve The Hollies until 1967 as their popularity began to soar internationally. Michael stepped down to concentrate on his business interest and family in Manchester. The Toggery boutique is well remembered for catering suits and stage gear to pop stars... including The Hollies.