TODAY’S Looking Back photograph shows a gathering of dignitaries for a very special event in Bolton.

This was the scene when the Earl of Derby came to Bolton to open the Civic Centre complex back in June 1939.

The impressive building which houses Bolton Museum and Art Gallery as well as the Magistrates’ Court.

It is a Grade Two listed building and commands a rather splendid position at the rear of Bolton Town Hall.

As we can see in this picture there is a shop called Conway’s in the Town Hall Square — does anyone know anything about this shop?

There is also a pub directly behind the civic dignitaries.

Thousands of people gathered for the opening ceremony which marked a very special event in Bkolton’s history.

Boy scouts as well as members of the Armed Forces and Bolton Council.

This building would stand the test of time and still stands proudly in the Town Centre today in its prominent position.