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Bernard Manning’s “world famous” Embassy social club on Rochdale Road in Harpurhey.

In 1959, with his father's help, Manning bought and transformed the old temperance billiard hall and opened it as the Embassy Club. He would usually perform three nights a week at the Embassy and tour other clubs on the remaining days of the week.

The club is reputed to have played host to many rising acts who went on to become household names such as Gerry Dorsey (aka Englebert Humperdinck), Freddie Starr, Mike Yarwood and many others. Bernard always proclaimed The Beatles had played his club for £14 in the early 60’s (however no date can be found and it’s not documented anywhere else Link The Beatles in Manchester).

The Embassy Club closed in 1999 after Bernard Manning suffered a stroke, but was later reopened by his son, Bernard Manning Jr, as a centre for community arts and drama groups.

Link Bernard Manning Obituary (Daily Telegraph)