Locals share fond memories of Fiddle I'th Bag Inn on Alder Lane

A group of locals has been working against the clock to retain the final of four historic pubs on Alder Lane, near Newton-le-Willows.

The Fiddle I'th Bag Inn closed its doors in 2018, with residents now looking to secure the premises and bring the pub back to its former glory. 

The group raised more than £10,000 in the first two days of setting up its fundraiser, with hopes of reaching a £350,000 target. 

During the campaign, residents took a trip down memory lane.

Here are some of the comments and fond memories locals have of the Fiddle I'th Bag Inn:

The pub closed its doors in 2018

Stelisa Hind 

"This was such a unique pub; it was like stepping back in time.

"Many nights were spent just people listening to each other’s stories; whether it be war or the swinging 60s, there was always a topic to talk about.

"There was the famous pub cat who had followers all around the world and people travelled miles to see her.

"I miss this place dearly; there will never be another pub like it." 

Michelle Kerr 

"The final night was very emotional for the staff and customers because as a regular you felt part of the Fiddle Family. 

"Gid would often loan out his WW2 artifacts to schools and groups - which included an air raid siren - very scary sound.

"Every time I hear 40s songs, it takes me back to my happy times at the Fiddle."

Residents have fond memories of the historic pub (Image: David Barton)

David Smith 

"My mother and father used to do relief landlord for Mrs Pasquil in the 1970s."

Hannah Richards 

"My girls are 19, 16, and four; it was and remains the pub they remember and loved.

"My girls still asked to go even into teens, and it would be the choice of birthday or family meals.  

"It became my walk and maternity leave trip with friends with daughter number three.  

"I don't think we'll ever have a place as special."

Jeff Skelton 

"It was an old-fashioned pub with old-fashioned values. 

"If you strolled in with your dig on a Sunday, Gideon would put out a little of the leftover meat as a treat.

"A superb pub that's truly missed, the last of its generation I think."

Karen Clyne

"I loved the upside-down Christmas tree suspended from the ceiling with even the decorations wired to the tree upside down as well."

Sue Harvey

"Loved the Fiddle from the first visit aged 17 till it closed; very sad to see it boarded up."