Bolton Latvian Club (340 Chorley Old Road, Bolton BL1 4JU)

Following in the footsteps of other DVF branches, the relatively small branch in Bolton also decided to acquire its own property, which came into their ownership on 27 June 1973, for the sum of £8500. The two-storey building with loft conversion was in excellent condition but required work to make it suitable for DVF purposes. The ground floor eventually housed the bar and kitchens, the first floor housed the function room for 100 people, and rooms for the DVF committee and ladies. A library and book selling point were accommodated in the loft. The local brewery made a financial loan for the setting up of the bar on the understanding that all drinks would be provided by that brewery. At the beginning the club was open only to members, but in 1975 a licence was obtained to sell drinks to the public. The adjoining building was acquired in 1979 to create accommodation for those working in the club – finances again made available by the local brewery. This latterly acquired building was sold in 1995 as there were no more tenants, and in 2000 the whole property was sold off.