A beloved Greene King pub has shut its doors after more than 180 years of trading. The Red, at the crossroads of what is commonly known as Four Lane Ends in Over Hulton, Bolton, has provided families with entertainment for years through its adjoining Wacky Warehouse.

However, last month Greene King announced it was entering consultation with staff regarding the proposed closure of the Salford Road venue, and has now confirmed the Hungry Horses-branded pub has permanently closed. A company spokesperson said: "We can confirm that the Red Lion ceased trading on April 26.

"We continue to work closely with our team members to identify opportunities at our other pubs nearby where possible.

"We are grateful to everyone who has supported the Red Lion over the years, and we look forward to welcoming them into our other pubs in the local area soon."

Local residents have been responding to the "devastating" news, calling it "so sad" and reminiscing about bringing their children to the soft play area.

"So sad, another bites the dust," said one customer, while another added: "I have been here for lunch and dinners many times over the years. It will be a sad day when it closes."

A third remarked: "I love it here, the children can play. Isn't many pubs you can take your children to these days where you can have a family meal for birthdays and the children be occupied as well."

Others shared their own cherished memories of the venue, including "great times late 70s to late 80s", "especially Sunday nights in the main room when we would gather around one little table in the middle and expand a circle around it as more people came in".

With a history stretching back to 1841, the building was reconstructed in 1905 and previously served as a Mail House before being converted into a pub.

For generations, it was a popular gathering point for miners working at the nearby Hulton Colliery.

Greene King has invited locals to explore its other nearby establishments, among them the Bee Hive and the Blundell Arms in Horwich.