BOLTON, like most places up and down the country, has lost dozens of great pubs over recent years.

Cheap alcohol, high rents and shifting social habits denuded many communities of these popular meeting places where passing a few hours over a pint or two with plenty of conversation was a regular habit.

Some pubs literally disappear overnight, never to open again.

So it’s good news that town centre pub The Hen and Chickens has re-opened its doors after closing in August.

New landlord, Paul Kirkman, currently also runs The Albion in Moor Lane.

Good luck with this, Paul.

Let’s hope it’s a new trend — we need our pubs.