'CAN you point me in the right direction in finding more information about the Bridge Inn, Higher Market Street, Bolton?', asks Mr Andrew E. Aston, of Watts Street, Horwich.

Normally I would suggest going to the Local Studies Department at the Central Library, but Mr Aston tells me that he has already been down that route, to no avail.

He has also looked at Gordon Readyhough's book Bolton Pubs, 1800-2000, 'but it only mentions that it used to be the Gartside Arms. Where and when did this name come from?'

The whole text in Gordon's book in fact reads: 'The Bridge Inn was located between Rushton Street and Bridge Street, and next door but one to the old Fish Market. It was originally called the Gartside Arms, and was in existence by 1800. The licence was refused in 1926 and the building was demolished along with the Fish Market for the widening of Bridge Street in the early 1930s.'

Apart from the Library and Gordon's book, I cannot suggest anywhere else for Mr Aston to research. Can any reader help in any way? If so, please let me know.