A LANDMARK Bolton pub has called last orders – for the time being.

The Hen and Chickens, on Deansgate, has been operating as public house since the 1800s and is thought to be one of the oldest in the town centre.

The pub was selling off beer at discounted prices over the Bank Holiday weekend before closing its doors to customers.

A spokesman for the owners of the pub, Punch Taverns, said it officially closed today but that the search was on or a new tenant so the pub could reopen again.

A former regular at the pub, who did not wish to be named, said: "There was always a good atmosphere in the pub and there was always a character or two in there. It is a shame to see it closing. I am hoping it will reopen soon."

The historic pub is famous for a number of reasons. Above the fireplace is a painting of The Charge of the Light Brigade, a battle which claimed the life of a landlord’s son on October 25, 1854. Private Constantine Wrigley was born in 1816 and enlisted in 1836. His name is still remembered in the pub.

The Hen and Chickens has been described as whatpub.com as being “one of the popular town centre pubs.

“The smart exterior and colourful floral displays brighten up that end of Deansgate."

Stuart Hilton and Michelle Cardno, the authors of the book Haunted Bolton, which was released in 2013, believe that the Hen and Chickens was haunted.

The pub was also featured in the Mass Observation Project of the 1930s to document life in a working town.

Last year, The Hen and Chickens was shortlisted for the title of best pub in the borough by CAMRA – Campaign for Real Ale.

A spokesman for Punch Taverns said: “The current tenant at the Hen and Chickens has informed us that they will be closing down for business as of tomorrow. We are currently seeking a new operator and hope to have the pub open at the earliest opportunity. We apologise to any customers for any inconvenience caused."