WE often take time to think about ‘the good times’ and experiences we have had in life.

And on New Year’s Day, that is exactly what a group of pub regulars did by meeting outside Fiddle I'th Bag Inn in Burtonwood.

One of the group, Brian Yeoman describes the Alder Lane pub as the ‘lonely, old man in the corner’.

“It has been ignored by many whilst life passes by and health deteriorates with decades of interesting and funny stories to tell if someone would take time and pay attention,” said Brian.

“Soon if we are not careful this pub will die and all that will be left are old photographs and newspaper articles snapped shut in old suitcases consigned to a loft.

“What is apparent in our towns, is how life has changed with a materialistic focus in our own little bubbles not helped by coronavirus.”

Brian says that the pub was a great community hub that appealed to everyone.

He added: “There were many interesting people who frequented the place with no judgement from anyone, a place for a laugh, debate or just generally putting the world to rights and not just a bar for getting drunk.

“What I have come to realise apart from missing the place is how important places like this are for local residents mental and physical wellbeing.

“Just a couple of hours in a place like this amongst our chaotic stressful working lives is vital to the soul.

“I hope this resonates with our local councillors and Warrington Borough Council as over recent years our town has become overwhelmed by development on a large scale to generate revenue and achieve city status whilst losing its soul and identity.

“Do something good and nostalgic for our community and bring such history to the fore as an important part of the town.”