Happy Mondays' Shaun Ryder eats at Wilton Arms in Bolton

It was a 'Happy Monday' for staff and customers at the Wilton Arms on Belmont Road when legendary musician Shaun Ryder turned up with his family for quite a meal – a far cry for his extracurricular activities of the 80s and 90s.

Best known as the front man for acclaimed Manchester rock band Happy Mondays, Shaun is said to have been in a jovial mood - more than willing to spend time with staff and customers.

Owner of the Wilton Arms, Miguel Estevao, says that the singer was the perfect guest, and is certain that he had a pleasant time at his establishment.

He said: “He was very friendly and a good customer.

“He was here having a meal with his family. He was very happy and had a good time, as you can see from the photo.

“I was very nice to have him here.”

Wilton Arms (Image: Newsquest)

The pub gets very busy during lunch and dinner service times, so Shaun had chosen a time when there was likely to be less people to recognise him – around 4pm, Mr Estevao says.

But his appearance at the restaurant did not go completely unnoticed. He is said to have spent time chatting and taking photographs with those lucky enough to be at the Wilton Arms at that time.

“He was happy to take photographs with other customers,” Mr Estevao said.

“He was great company.”

He added: “I told him that I listen to the radio in my car and his song always comes on – ‘You’re twisting my melon, man’. He laughed a lot.”

Staff at the pub are no stranger to a famous face. Mr Estevao’s place is often frequented by Stuart Francis, and he says he has also served actor Michelle Keegan, as well as Boltonian comedy legend Peter Kay.

“We get some celebrities in here,” he said.

Ryder is set to play his first solo gig in 11 years this week, when on Friday, October 7, he will take to the stage at Manchester’s Factory 251 club, with all the proceeds from the night going to mental health charity Mind.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18