WHEN we featured a photograph in Looking Back of some old gate posts it provided a talking point for many of our readers.

For the gate posts were in Doffcocker and were a familiar sight to many not least David Christian who although being brought up in the area now lives in the Isle of Man.

It would seem the gate posts belonged to a house which used to be in Chorley Old Road and David has unearthed a little more information about this house.

David says there is little wonder he could not remember the house that stood there "as it had gone long before my time" he explains.

The house was named Doffcockers and was demolished in 1913.

It was named after the mid 18th century hamlet of Doffcocker and was the home of a Mr Whitaker who owned the nearby Doffcocker Mill.

It was later owned by Sir Benjamin Dobson who altered the building considerably when he took over ownership of it.

When he died the rather grand hall passed through several different owners and in 1909 there were plans made to turn the house and grounds into a tearooms and billiard saloon.

But the local residents were, apparently, not happy with the proposals and the plans were then scrapped.

This beautiful, impressive house was then demolished in 1913.

The grounds became a playground for local children, including David, who recalls they named it "Dobbies or Dobby's Wood" and he adds that he remembers also playing in the ruins of Doffcocker Mill.

Doffcocker was a community all of its own at the turn of the 20th century and prior to that was a village based around the mill which employed so many of the local residents.

Today it is almost impossible to appreciate that this little area, or suburb, of Bolton would have had a life all of its own but it was a thriving community with shops, businesses and families living side-by-side and working side-by-side.

If you have your own memories of Doffcocker do get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk