NEARLY two centuries of Bolton history is drawing to a close, with the sad announcement that Beales department store is closing.

Still known to many Boltonians as ‘Whitakers’, the store changed its name to ‘Beales’ in 2011.

Founded in 1829, these pictures show the changing face of the shop throughout its 187 years in business.

Decades-old pictures of the womenswear department are a reminder that the old store has witnessed the changing fashions of the past two centuries.

In images of the store’s ornate façade and wooden-beamed interior, we’re reminded of the shop’s architectural beauty – including the grand wooden staircase that once led from the ground to the first floor.

Elsewhere, we see intriguing images of the café’s former decor – complete with wallpaper, wood panelling and chandeliers.

Some pictures show Beales’ famous window displays: Works of art that drew shoppers to marvel at the large plate glass windows in Deansgate.

Sadly, those windows now bear stickers stating ‘Everything Must Go’, but while Beales will cease to trade; 200 years of memories live on.

So get in touch and tell us your memories of shopping at this long-standing Bolton institution.

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