THE best things in life are free - and for Beatlemaniacs who want money, 60s' souvenirs snapped up for nothing could now rake in the cash.

During their early career John, Paul, George and Ringo paid no less than four fleeting visits to York, doling out dozens of autographs and leaving a sea of memorabilia in their wake.

Now fans who've cherished these keepsakes could be on to a fab fortune as collectors move into the city to plunder a previously-untapped source of souvenirs.

Tracks, a Lancashire-based collecting company, is holding a memorabilia buying session in the Viking Moat House, York, and, says boss Jason Cornthwaite, hundreds of pounds are up for grabs for even the most nondescript items.

"The Beatles signed numerous sets of autographs in their early years and these are now highly prized among collectors.

"A good set on a page from an autograph book will bring around £700 and an album or programme signed by all four Beatles up to £1,500."

Mr Cornthwaite claims original concert posters can also sell for £1,500, while even ticket stubs and handbills can fetch between £40 and £200.

The Beatles first arrived in York early in 1963, playing the Rialto Theatre - now the Mecca bingo hall in Fishergate - on February 27.

They were due to be joined by Helen Shapiro although she was unable to appear due to illness.

The following month they returned as part of the Tommy Roe and Chris Montez tour and again in May, supporting Roy Orbison.

In November they played their final York gig, topping the bill.

"With the band having played four concerts in the city there's bound to be a bit of stuff kicking around.

"We've never held an event in York before, so it's impossible to tell how successful it will be.

"But people are always putting these things away in their attics they'd be very surprised at how much money they can get for them."

Among the more bizarre items to turn up at the buy-ins - which also collect memorabilia from other bands - Mr Cornthwaite has collected one of John Lennon's baby teeth and Paul McCartney's school algebra book.

The pop memorabilia buy-in runs from 10am to 4pm this Sunday. Admission is free.

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