WE thought these two pictures showing scenes from Smithills Hall Estate would be interesting for our readers.

The top picture was taken in July 1970 and the story surrounding it involves plans for Bolton’s first public nature reserve which was destined for the wooded valleys of the estate.

At this time tentative plans had been drawn up by the then Bolton Corporation Museums Department for a mile-and-a-half long nature trail through the estate.

These youngsters were seen having fun on the estate back in 1970.

In our lower photograph we see Raveden Wood near Smithills Hall.

On the recently repaired footbridge back in 1955 we see park ranger Mr J France with his five-month-old boxer bull terriers Trixie and Lady.

The stream we can see in the photograph forms the boundary between Astley Bridge and Halliwell.

Bolton is a largely urban town but it is lovely to have such gorgeous countryside too.