Said pub, known aptly as the Red Dragon at the time, was Marx's local when he was defining the concept of communism. He also used to meet his pal Engels there and I like to think that they used to put the world to right over a pint or two :-)

Sadly, although a grade 2 listed building it now seems to be under threat. Its location, on the main A6 into Manchester and its proximity to Salford University and a host of new developments would seem to make it an ideal place for a bustling pub but, alas, it seems not. It was in the CAMRA good beer guide for over 20 years and it oozes character. Albeit faced grandeur now. I have many fond memories of it, including listening to a music session involving musicians from all over the world after a cultural event, welcoming new immigrants to Salford, at Peel Hall, across the road. The event was a bit formal and stuffy. The session was wild :-)

Latest talk is of demolishing it to make way for a Chinese cultural centre :-( I have nothing against the Chinese I hasten to add! Would it not be better though if Salford's Labour council would step in and make sure this historic and cultural landmark was saved? Or do they, as is my impression, not really want to be reminded of the working class and left-wing heritage they should be proud of?

Dirty Old Town? I suspect Ewan is turning in his grave.