A popular Bolton pub is reigniting the festive spirit with a Christmas light switch-on for its new community tree.
The new tree was planted after controversy in November, when Bolton Council’s planning committee voted to allow a 19-space car park to be built on the site of a former church on St John’s Road in Chew Moor.
The area had been used as an ‘informal village green’, and the planning committee heard that the green was a "major feature of the village for generations".
Cllr Ann Galloway told the planning meeting in November: “It had a lawn, it had trees, flower beds and benches and more recently the village Christmas tree"
The decision subsequently left many residents in the village “devastated” by the loss of the green and the tree.
In response, The Duke of Wellington pub, on St John’s Road, stepped in and planted a new community Christmas tree on its grounds.
Sophie McGrath, the pub’s manager, said: “With the incredible generosity and support of residents, we have jointly funded and established a new tree that the whole community can once again be proud of.”
To mark the occasion, the pub is hosting a Christmas Market this Sunday, December 7, from 2pm to 6pm.
The event will feature local traders, festive treats, and family-friendly activities.
Read more:
- Chew Moor car park vote 'kick in the teeth for residents'
- Village to holds it annual Christmas market
- Beautiful tributes to beloved dad described as 'one-in-a-million'
“We wanted to make a big thing of it because people were so upset that the tree had gone,” said Sophie.
“Being based in the village, our pub is at the heart of our community, so it was the perfect spot.”
After a performance of traditional carols by the Chew Moor choir, football legend Super John McGinlay will officially switch on the new Christmas tree lights at 5pm.
Councillor for Heaton, Lostock and Chew Moor, Andy Morgan, said: “As ward councillors, we were proud to approve and support the use of ward funds to partly sponsor Chew Moor’s magnificent new community Christmas tree.
“This tree is more than just decoration, it’s a symbol of unity for our village, and we hope it brings everyone closer together this Christmas and for many more years to come.”
During the festive period, The Duke of Wellington will also be hosting a Breakfast with Santa morning for children on Sunday, December 21.
To find out more, visit the pub’s Facebook page or website.
Share