IT is depressing news to hear of the closure of the Moss Rose pub in Kearsley.

Yet another pub closing down in and around Bolton, following the trend that now seem unstoppable.

Is there nothing that is going to halt this destruction of our national heritage?

Ban sales of cheap alcohol in supermarkets and off-licences for starters.

The taxes on alcohol and the high rents forced on landlords by breweries are also contributing to the decline.

The ban on smoking may also have been a factor but I think it was a good thing. But I have noticed that there may be some light at the end of the tunnel. The amazing rise of the "micro-pub" which according to their Association's latest Directory, has in excess of 100 establishments up and down the country and counting.

These are "min-pubs" (in converted shops, banks, offices etc) which sell home brewed ale in attractive surroundings with no loud music, TV screens, juke boxes etc, just people talking.

That sounds just up my street but we have yet to get one in Bolton. Why not down-size some of the closed pubs, retaining the bar areas and converting the rest in some useful amenities?

Mohammed Ismail,

Ladybridge.