I FOR one would like to see Bolton Palais re-opened again as a dance hall, not from a nostalgic point of view, but because there are very few dance halls left in the Bolton area – in fact in the whole country.

The few in the area I can name are Sandham’s Dance Studio in Farnworth, Swinton Palais which has recently been beautifully restored, Hurst Dance Studio in Hindley that was opened last year and the Longfield Suite in Prestwich.

With the resurgence of interest in ballroom dancing in recent years – thanks mainly to the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing – program there is a definite need for more dance halls.

Many youngsters take up ballroom and other forms of dance in their early years only to give it up later, partly because of the shortage of suitable venues especially for young adults.

Lots of older people also take up ballroom dancing from a social point of view, as well as an activity that keeps them fit and healthy.

Whether or not there is enough interest locally for a night spot like the Palais to be commercially successful is open to question.

In its heyday it was packed out most nights, but times have changed and now many young people it seems, would rather spend their time getting stoned out of

their heads on alcohol and drugs in pubs and clubs instead of pursuing a healthy evening out dancing with a member of the opposite sex.

Good luck to Maggie Gallagher and campaigners in their efforts to save the Palais.

O. S. Bird

Leyton Close

Farnworth