WEDDING couples could soon be tying the knot at one of Bolton's historic houses.

Smithills Hall has been inundated with requests from people wanting to hold wedding ceremonies there. And now hall bosses are applying for a licence to hold civil ceremonies.

The beautiful 14th century building is built on the side of the picturesque Pennine Moors just outside Bolton.

Jack Danson, spokesman for Smithills Hall Museum, said they were applying for a licence to bring in extra revenue and partly because of the demand over the past few years. We have had requests from visitors to the hall and from internet browsers who are looking for an historic building to get married in."

Next door is Smithills Coaching house -- already a favourite place for wedding receptions. "We hope to get the licence as soon as the inspectors are satisfied that we meet the criteria as we have people already queuing up to get married in our beautiful building," added Mr Danson.

The rooms available for hire are the Great Hall which holds up to 60 people, alongside the slightly smaller Elizabethan Hall and Dome Room. For larger weddings, marquees will be required. For more information ring Smithills Hall Museum on 01204-332377.