THE Hen and Chickens has one of the most appealing pub exteriors in Bolton town centre and the interior has retained most of its original features including the attractive Art Nouveau tiles which adorn the front of the bar.

It is, therefore, imperative that a pub with a character and atmosphere as attractive as this should be preserved at all costs. Hopefully, the next owner will see fit to capitalise on all the history the pub has to offer.

I believe a theatre used to stand next door and one wonders how many famous names have graced the pub's bar after the shows? Perhaps a bit of research would show up some photographs that could hang on the walls to give the pub a 'theme.'

Also, the provision of meals and snacks would help to bring in the customers. With the current rate of closure of pubs and stores, there will be nothing left in the town centre except late night bars attracting hordes of binge-drinking morons. Let this be a wake-up call.

Mohammed Ismail

Ladybridge