The Searchers Announce Final Glastonbury Farewell

The Searchers, one of the longest-running bands in British pop history, have announced their retirement after 68 years. Formed in 1957, the band was part of Liverpool's Merseybeat scene alongside The Beatles, achieving fame with hits like 'Sweets for My Sweet' and 'Needles and Pins'. The decision to retire was influenced by the members' advancing age and the increasing difficulty of travel, particularly the heavy traffic on motorways. Their farewell tour will culminate in their debut and final performance at Glastonbury Festival this summer. Founding member John McNally, 83, and longtime bassist Frank Allen, 81, expressed excitement for this last show, calling it a fitting end to their storied career. Over the years, The Searchers have sold an estimated 50 million albums, despite frequent lineup changes, including the late drummer Eddie Rothe.