REMEMBERING the past and how things used to be in Bolton is a favourite pastime of so many Looking Back readers.

On the first Wednesday in every month there is a reminiscence group which helps local folk indulge this fabulous hobby.

It takes place at All Souls Church in Astley Street and it is led by local historical Norman Hindley.

There is a different topic every month and all are equally interesting for the people taking part.

If you live in the area or are just interested to find out more you are invited to pop along.

You can join in and chat about the topic or simply sit and listen.

Today, from 10am, there is a group meeting looking at memories of Churchgate, Church Bank and Church Wharf in Bolton Town Centre.

The meeting will last for around an hour.

The area under discussion today has changed considerably over the not only decades but centuries it has been in existence.

At one time a venue for the local market Churchgate was a hive of activity with merchants descending on the town to sell their wares.

In recent centuries it has become home to such famous names as Ye Old Pastie Shoppe and Ye Olde Man and Scythe public house can date its own history back to 1251 making it one of the 10 oldest pubs in Britain.