IT was the end of an era as Smithills Coaching house closed its doors for the final time.

The historic restaurant has been open since 1966 — but now it has been sold and plans have been submitted to transform the grade II listed building into housing.

Yesterday former employees and regular customers, many of whom have been frequenting the restaurant for years, enjoyed an emotional last meal.

Patricia Flockton, aged 76, from Smithills, said: “It is such a shame there is nowhere else like it.

“If we had visitors, this is the place we would bring them to show off Bolton.

“We thought we had to come on the last day for the atmosphere, but there wasn’t much, and we thought it would be full but it wasn’t.”

Mike Copple, aged 72, who lives in Salford, has been visiting since it opened.

He said: “I have been coming here since 1966 and now it is the end of an era.

“I am disappointed and would like it to be retained as it is.

“The staff are great. We brought them some pictures and chocolates.”

Lilian Simpson, aged 70 from Swinton, added: “We came here regularly because the place is beautiful, the staff are lovely and the food is wonderful and at a competitive price.

“I am very upset and disappointed about it closing.”

Developer Jones Homes has said the plans to turn the building into eight houses will prevent it from falling into disrepair.

Joe Savage, from the firm, said the longer the building stands unused, the harder it will be to maintain.

A further 21 houses are proposed on land around the building.

The plans have seen widespread public opposition, including objections from Bolton Civic Trust, English Heritage and local councillors.

English Heritage also said the plans will impact on Smithills Hall and the greenbelt. The 30 members of staff at the restaurant have been made redundant .

The manager was unavailable to comment.