BUSTY topless barmaids are pulling in FEMALE drinkers in their droves at a Bolton pub.

Millstone pub landlord Brian Rigby and landlady Julie Carmichael, 29 - who has gone topless behind the bar herself - claim women love the saucy approach to pulling pints. But they say they are astonished at the interest being shown by the fair sex.

Topless barmaids were introduced when the couple took over the Crown Street pub - just off Deansgate - eight weeks ago.

Julie said: "The women seem to love coming in. I think they like looking at other women and comparing themselves."

Brian added: "It really surprised me but the other night there were actually more women than men in. Of course we get plenty of men in as well, but we've had no problems. It's all a bit of fun."

The pub has visited by police but the couple are confident they are doing nothing wrong.

Julie said: "We have not had any complaints and we would never do anything illegal. We have frosted glass in the windows and we don't let anyone in under age. And the girls stay behind the bar during the night." The couple were warned before they set up their venture that opposition to topless bar service was stronger in Bolton than other towns.

Brian said: "We don't know why that is. Places like Wigan and St Helens seem to have them quite a lot without any fuss."

With backing from brewers Tetley, the couple are planning a major refurbishment of the pub. They will then re-open for lunchtime trade without bare flesh on show. But they hope to continue the topless service in the evenings.

At present the pub opens only in the evening from Thursday to Sunday.

Julie said: "Once the place is done up we'll carry on with the topless service, but we'll probably go for different girls - like famous Page Three models." Supt Ian McLoughlin of Bolton police said: "We are aware of what is happening at this pub. We are currently monitoring the situation and a report will be made to the licensing authority and local council."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.