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A much-loved pub, heralded by generations of locals, has officially closed its doors, bringing an end to decades of memories at the cherished venue. The Red Lion, on Salford Road in Over Hulton, Bolton, officially ceased trading on April 26, its owners Greene King have confirmed.

With its attached Wacky Warehouse play area, the Hungry Horses branded pub has kept families entertained for many years. With roots dating back to 1841, the building was rebuilt in 1905 and served as a Mail House before becoming a pub. For generations, it was a regular meeting spot for miners from the nearby Hulton Colliery. It also formed part of the community during key moments in the area's history, including the aftermath of the Pretoria Pit disaster in 1910.

According to Manchester Evening News, a spokesperson for Greene King said: "We can confirm that the Red Lion ceased trading on April 26. We continue to work closely with our team members to identify opportunities at our other pubs nearby where possible.

"We are grateful to everyone who has supported the Red Lion over the years, and we look forward to welcoming them into our other pubs in the local area soon."

This comes after the company announced in March that it was consulting with staff on the proposed closure of the site. The Wacky Warehouse attached to the pub has also closed, after holding its final event on April 24.

Locals have been reacting to the "devastating" news, describing it as "so sad" and sharing their memories of taking children along to the soft play.

"So sad, another bites the dust," said one customer, while another added, "I have been here for lunch and dinners many times over the years. It will be a sad day when it closes."

A third commented: "I love it here, the children can play. Isn't many pubs you can take your children to these days where you can have a family meal for birthdays and the children be occupied as well."

Others recalled their own fond memories of the place, including "great times late 70s to late 80s" and "especially Sunday nights in the main room when we would gather around one little table in the middle and expand a circle around it as more people came in".

Greene King has encouraged locals to visit its other venues in the area, including the Bee Hive and the Blundell Arms in Horwich.

Hungry Horse is a chain of 246 pub restaurants in England, Wales and Scotland, which is owned by Greene King. It was first established in 1995. Its menus focus on affordable meals, including signature sizzling steaks, Sunday roasts and large breakfast portions.