THE last remaining member of the Ainsworth family dynasty - past owners of Smithills Hall - has died, aged 87.

The Friends of Smithills Hall expressed their sadness after the death of John Francis Ainsworth, which brings to an end the long line of Ainsworth influence in Bolton.

He died at his home in Chichester, West Sussex, but Mr Ainsworth always maintained a keen interest in the events at Smithills Hall, his former home, in Bolton.

A representative of The Friends hopes to attend a memorial service to Mr Ainsworth that will take place near his home. Margaret Koppens, chairman of the Friends of Smithills Hall, said: "The Ainsworths were a prominent family in Bolton who lived here for many years.

"They bought Smithills Hall at the end of the 18th century and carried out many extensions and improvements.

"The Ainsworths had a long association with Bolton and his passing away is a significant occasion that should be recognised." Mr Ainsworth became directly involved with Smithills Hall when the estate was passed to his father Nigel Victor Combe.

He always maintained a keen interest in what was going on at the hall where lived as a young boy.

He only stopped attending the Friends of Smithills annual general meetings in the mid 90s and still managed to write to the editor of the organisation's newsletter.

Until his death, Mr Ainsworth remained Honorary President of The Friends of Smithills Hall who keep the Hall and its grounds in good condition and open to the public. Smithills Hall is now in the hands of Bolton Council after the property was bought from the Ainsworths in 1938.

The Ainsworth family were a family of bleachers who owned the works on Croft Road in Smithhills.

They built St Paul's Church in the area and many of the residents homes that still stand today.

Albert Hornby, a member of Friends of Smithills Hall, added: "Despite his experience and position, John was always an unassuming and friendly man."