IN June of 1965, Buckingham Palace announced that the Beatles were to be made MBEs.

Within hours of the news emerging, many young people said it was a good thing, while many older ones and members of the Establishment said it was an outrage.

Some of the latter went as far as returning their own awards in protest.

In an odd coincidence, John Lennon would return his MBE to the palace a little over four years later in protest against the Vietnam War and aspects of British foreign policy.

When the Beatles’ awards were announced, the Adver went on to the streets to gauge the public mood.

We said: “Three years ago four young Liverpool lads burst upon the public scene.

“Since then their career has been accompanied by hysteria and dollars. But now they have sparked off the biggest row of their lives.

“Three letters being tagged to the end of their already famous name has resulted in the screaming of the teenagers being challenged by the bellowing of the adults.”

Our reporter gathered a mixed batch of opinions, some but not all split along generational lines.

Shirley Graham, 16, from Haydon Wick, wasn’t impressed by the awards but struck a conciliatory note: “I like the Beatles, but it is silly to give them the MBE.

“On the other hand, I think it is rather childish of people to send back their medals.”

Similar balance and tolerance from the other end of the age spectrum came courtesy of veteran councillor George Selman, in whose honour a sheltered housing complex is named.

He said: “Honestly, although I don’t care for the Beatles and I’m not ‘with it,’ I have no particular feelings about it.

“I am sure the award brought a lot of pleasure to young people. I think these people who are returning medals are being a little too hasty and will regret their actions later.

“After all, it is a great honour to receive this from the Queen and your country.”

Coun Selman spoke from experience, having been told he was to be made a CBE in the same honours list.

Pam Knight, 15, of Cheney Manor Road, said: “Presenting the Beatles with the MBE is a good thing and I think they deserved it. They have earned this country a lot of money from the United States and I think those who object are just jealous.”

Six-year-old Desmond Vine, who lived in Graham Street, said simply: “I like the Beatles. I like to hear them sing.”

Mr F Walklett, 74, of Birchwood Road, was rather less enthusiastic: “I think it is degrading. You cannot say that they have done anything for the country and I think that this award should be made only to people who have done some good.

“This award is a lot of silly rot and I don’t blame these people for sending back their medals.”