The zebra crossing made famous by The Beatles has been given Grade II listed status.

The North London crossing, which appears on the front of the 1969 ‘Abbey Road’ cover, has become the first of its kind to be listed, BBC News reports.

"This London zebra crossing is no castle or cathedral but, thanks to the Beatles and a 10 minute photo-shoot one August morning in 1969, it has just as strong a claim as any to be seen as part of our heritage," John Penrose, Minister for Tourism and Heritage said.

Paul McCartney added: "It's been a great year for me and a great year for The Beatles and hearing that the Abbey Road crossing is to be preserved is the icing on the cake."

Meanwhile, The Beatles entire back catalogue finally became available on iTunes after years of negotiations on November 16.

(by Holly Frith)