IT is a decade since Bolton Market Hall shut up shop for the very last time.

But for many of us it seems only like yesterday we could pop into the Market Hall for things that you really could not get anywhere else.

After all where else could you get a Christening robe, a reel of cotton and a Sunday roast all under the same roof?

The Market Hall opened to much excitement in 1855.

It was said to be “the largest covered market in the kingdom” and measured 294ft in length, and covered 7,000 square yards

It had cost £50,000 to build and was filled with a full range of stalls selling all manner of goods.

Did you know Marks and Spencer opened its first “shop” in Bolton in the Market Hall?

It was a Penny Bazaar stall selling products for just one penny each.

Although the layout of the Market Hall changed over the years the principles behind it did not.

It was a place where shoppers could go, with their list, and tick virtually everything off without moving too far.

I know one reader recalled there being animals on the balcony including a monkey.

If you have memories to share get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk