Les, it was a sad day when the Park Hotel went. I brought our 21st birthday celebrations forward by 3 months so we could celebrate in the Park before it was knocked down. And just about everyone was there for the final night. To add insult to injury, Wigan Council, having got rid of the Park proper, had the nerve to erect the original bar and fittings, plus a wax model of Mrs Brown (the landlady) in "The Way We Were", at Wigan Pier.

Wigan Folk Club has led a nomadic existence since. We're currently meeting at the Fox & Goose, Wigan Lane on Tuesdays, and at the Seven Stars, Wallgate, on Thursdays (yes, twice a week). I don't book guest artistes these days, we just have singarounds, normally quite well attended, and very friendly - anyone welcome.

Memories of the Park... open fires where we used to make toast, roast potatoes and chestnuts...the old cinema seating...the hand-painted murals on the walls (done by folk club members)...the miners lamp hanging from the ceiling and candles on all the tables...the traditional finishing song, 'Wild Mountain Thyme', complete with actions...aah, happy days...

Joan