+44 (0)161 927 9281

info@garston-entertainment.co.uk

About Garston Entertainment

Trusted Entertainment Experts Since 1978

Our Story

Founded in 1978 by Dave Cullen, Garston Entertainments began as a trusted agency supplying live acts across the North West's vibrant club scene. Early success came through managing a strong roster of local talent including Charley Boy, The Everglades, The Point, The Black Candleweeds, Passport to Pimlico, and Elvis Clayton.

Built on values of honesty, professionalism, and reliability-with standout client service and a trusted standby system-the agency quickly earned a reputation that kept venues and clients coming back year after year.

In 2000, Dave's son Neil Cullen took over the reins, continuing the family legacy and leading the company into a new era of growth and innovation. Now in its fifth decade, Garston Entertainments remains a proud family-run business.

Today, the company has grown into one of the UK's leading entertainment agencies, booking thousands of events each year across the UK and internationally. Based in the North West, we work with a wide range of clients - from major leisure companies to blue chip companies, weddings, hotels, private parties, festivals, corporate events and live music venues.

With a carefully curated roster of exclusive talent, we continue to uphold the core values we were founded on: friendly, expert service, dependable support, and high-quality live entertainment.

Whatever your event, our experienced and dedicated team is here to offer honest advice, tailored recommendations, and the best possible value to help make your event a success.

 

Meet The Team

Neil Cullen

Neil Cullen

Managing Director

Neil joined the family business in 1990, working alongside his father and company founder, Dave Cullen, to learn every aspect of the entertainment industry. He took over as Managing Director in 2000 and has since led Garston Entertainments through significant growth, establishing it as one of the UK's leading entertainment agencies.

Respected for his expertise, integrity, and personable approach, Neil has overseen major developments including the expansion of the company's online presence and the exclusive management of a core roster of high-quality artistes performing at thousands of events worldwide each year.

 

Nicola Loyden

Sales & Talent Director

Nicola joined Garston Entertainments in 2003 as an Administration Assistant and quickly proved herself to be an invaluable asset to the team. With a background in retail management, she brought strong organisational skills, a customer-focused mindset, and a fresh perspective that helped modernise and streamline many areas of the business.

Over the years, Nicola has played a central role in both the development of the company and the growth of its online presence. Now as Sales & Talent Director, she leads on client relations and talent management, working closely with many of Garston's exclusive artistes to support and guide their careers.

Known for her approachable nature, sharp eye for talent, and dedication to delivering exceptional service, Nicola is instrumental in maintaining the high standards that clients and artistes alike have come to expect from Garston Entertainments. She continues to help drive the company forward with passion, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry

Nicola Loyden
 
Alice Houlden

Alice Houlden

Bookings & Admin Manager

Alice joined Garston Entertainments in 2014 as an Administration Assistant and quickly established herself as an essential part of the team. She holds a BMUS (Hons) in Music from the University of Huddersfield, where she developed her musical expertise as a soloist, choir member, and accomplished flautist.

Before joining Garston, Alice worked as a Concert and Events Manager at the University of Huddersfield, gaining valuable experience in live event coordination and artist liaison. Her strong musical background and understanding of performance have proved invaluable in her current role.

Now as Bookings & Admin Manager, Alice is at the heart of our daily operations, managing bookings with precision and care. She's known for her outstanding organisational skills, sharp attention to detail, and warm, approachable personality - earning the trust and appreciation of both clients and artistes across the board.

 

Phil Brown

Entertainment & Talent Consultant

Phil is a highly skilled session musician and Musical Director, working with several leading bands across the UK. With a background that spans international project management, finance, and customer service, he brings a diverse and valuable skill set to the Garston team.

As Entertainment & Talent Consultant, Phil plays a key role in multiple areas of the business. He is involved in scouting and assessing new talent, updating our roster and website with new artistes, and providing expert advice to both clients and performers. His combined industry knowledge, musical expertise, and professional insight make him a vital part of our continued growth and success.

Phil
 
Ann Tinkley

Ann Tinkley

Bookkeeping Consultant

Ann began working with Garston Entertainments in 2020 and plays a vital role in managing the company's day-to-day finances. With exceptional diligence and attention to detail, she ensures our accounts, payments, and financial records are always accurate and up to date.

Ann brings a wealth of experience from her long-standing career in finance, having worked with a variety of businesses across the North West. Her extensive knowledge and steady, methodical approach make her a key asset to the team and an integral part of keeping Garston's operations running smoothly.

 

Phil Alderson

Freelance Web Developer

Phil has been Garston Entertainments' trusted website consultant for over 10 years. As the developer behind our bespoke website, database, and quote management system, Phil has played a vital role in building the digital foundations of our business.

With a strong blend of creative design, technical coding expertise, and deep knowledge of SEO and database systems, Phil continues to support and enhance our online presence. His input ensures our website remains user-friendly, efficient, and competitive in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

Phil Alderson
 
Bea Bea

Bea Bea

Office Cat & Head of Cuddles

Bea Bea may not have any experience in entertainment bookings, but she more than makes up for it with charm, affection, and plenty of personality. As the unofficial mascot of Garston Entertainments, she keeps the team company, boosts morale, and occasionally walks across keyboards at just the wrong moment.

Cool, crazy, and completely adored, Bea Bea brings joy to the office every day - proving once and for all that every great team needs a cat.

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