TODAY marks the 750th anniversary of the granting of Bolton's Royal Charter.

On December 14, 1251, the Charter, permitting Bolton to hold a market in Churchgate, was granted by King Henry III.

But John Jewitt, landlord of the town's Man and Scythe Inn, has slammed civic leaders for failing to celebrate its importance.

He has accused the council of showing a lack of regard for Bolton's history by ignoring the date, believing the local authority could damage the town's bid for city status if it continues to push its heritage into the past.

Mr Jewitt, who runs the pub in Churchgate, Bolton, said: "I am surprised it is not being celebrated by the authorities.

"If they are serious about city status, they have to realise heritage is important in this quest. This is a missed opportunity."

The Royal Charter was the earliest known document to include a mention of the Man and Scythe Inn.

Mr Jewitt has commissioned a special commemorativebeer which went on sale today.

It has been made by Cambrinus Craft Brewery, based on Lord Derby's estate at Knowsley and has an alcoholic content of 6.2 per cent.

The 18 gallon supply includes eight pints of honey, 200 grams of cinnamon, 100 grams of ginger and 50 grams of cloves.

Mr Jewitt said: "It's unique and slightly cloudy just as it was in those days."

The brewery also produces Stanley's Revenge and Bowton Feight, beers which commemorate the execution of the Earl of Derby in 1651 and the Massacre of Bolton in 1644.

The landlord said: "I think it's very important to mark the Royal Charter but it's another example of the council not caring.

"The Earl of Derby's execution happened 350 years ago but not a word was said about that either."

Bolton's history stretches back nearly 1,000 years with the first mention of the town in 1067 when the Manor of Bolton was bestowed on Roger de Poitou by William the Conqueror.

A spokesman for Bolton Council admitted there were no celebrations planned for today.

He said: "Mr Jewitt's approach was, as far as we know, the only one we have had about the 750th anniversary but the markets aren't forgotten and are very much part of the Bolton shopping scene.

"Much of our activity on the celebration front is centred around the Queen's Golden Jubilee and the Commonwealth Games which are pertinent to today's generation."