THIS photograph harks back to a time when each and every business in Bolton Town Centre took a real pride in their appearance.

Here we see what was then the Bolton Savings Bank — later to become the Trustee Savings Bank and then the TSB — in Hotel Street.

The photograph was taken in April 1943.

Just out of shot, one of the men who is busy planting flowers in a window box is standing on an old refuse bin to reach — many of us can recall having such a bin at home and if memory serves us right they were tin bins rather than the plastic versions we have today.

It looks as if the two shoppers — pictured looking rather interested in what is going on — have certainly dressed for the occasion with their smart coats and hats on.

Hotel Street has changed almost beyond all recognition today but this building looks very much the same.

Do you have memories of Bolton Town Centre?

Get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk and share your memories.