SHOPPERS flocked to Churchgate in Bolton for the charter celebrations -- leading to a staggering three-fold increase in trade.

Shops and pubs on the normally quiet street had their best ever weekend of trading.

For all our reports on the 750th charter celebrations please click on our special file Celebrating 750 years of Bolton life

The massive rise in sales and custom which saw thousands of people dipping into their wallets and purses is convincing civic leaders that a repeat of the successful celebrations is desirable. Keith Davies, deputy director of education and culture in Bolton, said talks were ongoing to make the market an annual celebration of the town's history.

He joked: "We'll have the 751st anniversary party!"

Mr Davies said he had heard nothing but positive feedback from shoppers and businessmen. He ruled out a weekly market but believed an annual celebration would boost trade and tourism.

"Churchgate is an easy road to close," he explained. "And it's always our intention to enrich the shopping experience for people coming into the town."

The Varsity pub was packed on Saturday as people of all ages ordered food and drink.

Many of them would have set foot in the pub for the first time.

Colin Bagot, assistant manager, said: "Saturday afternoons tend to be quiet for us with trade picking up at night but we were really pleased at the weekend.

"We served mainly hot drinks and food and it was a good chance for us to show all we have to offer. It's not just beer.

"Our mulled wine was extremely popular and we ran out by 2pm on Saturday.

"We'd love to see the celebrations become an annual event."

Ye Olde Man and Scythe Inn, the Swan Hotel, Ye Olde Pastie Shoppe, the Brass Cat and the Brasshouse also reported an increase in takings.

Mayor Cllr John Walsh, whose idea it was to hold the celebrations, said: "I would only be too happy to support plans to celebrate the town's charter anniversary each year."

The party received widespread publicity and was aired on the BBC and Granada news bulletins.