Sadness as town-centre bar announces ‘heart-breaking' closure
The owner of a popular town centre bar and restaurant has thanked his customers for an 'incredible journey' after making the heartbreaking announcement it is to close in a matter of days.
The Courthouse, which is located on Mawdsley Street, will be closing its doors on May 26 after last orders.
The Grade II listed building was taken over in 2018 from previous owners who had run it as Harvey's Café Bar. Before that, the bar was known as Henry's and opened in 1996.
Owner Husky Faldu in front of The Court House. (Image: Martini Archive)
It underwent a £350,000 refurbishment when it was taken over.
Speaking to The Bolton News owner Husky Faldu said: "We want to thank our customers for their support over the years, we have been on an incredible journey and couldn't have done it without them.
"They're a part of our memories just as we are a part of theirs. We're grateful for the special times shared over the past eight years."
One of the groups that used to meet at The Court House was the Chapter 25 book club, a communal space for women of all backgrounds to connect with others.
Kate Ainsworth, 25, who was a member of the club said: "Chapter 25 has two Bolton groups, each with about 40 people.
"There's a big sense of community. Everyone at the group identifies as a woman so its become more than just a book club, the age range is from 18 to 65.
"I've met some wonderful people, including neighbours who I didn't even know lived right by me!
"It's a lovely community that The Court House has fostered, it means a lot of different things to a lot of different people.
Katie regularly used The Court House for the Chapter 25 book club. (Image: Katie Ainsworth)
"Now, we don't know about the future of the club. We need more night venues, especially in places like Bolton. This area used to be so thriving, with independent companies cultivating community.
"It's sad to see that this has become more difficult in recent times."
Taking to social media, a spokesperson for the Courthouse said: 'It's with incredibly heavy hearts that we have to let you know we will be closing our doors on Monday 26th May.
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'This is not a decision we ever imagined having to make, and certainly not one we've taken lightly.
'The building we've called home for almost eight amazing years has recently changed ownership.
The team at The Courthouse from previous years. (Image: Martini Archive)
'We're absolutely heartbroken. This place has been our life – and yours – for so long. From celebrations to casual dinners, first dates to family reunions, we've loved every minute of being part of your memories. Closing this chapter is devastating.
'We are currently exploring every possible option to relocate, and we're so grateful to Bolton Council, who have been incredibly supportive throughout this difficult time.
'We truly hope this is not the end, just a pause while we jobs" target="_blank">work out our next steps.
'To those with bookings – please bear with us. We'll be reaching out to each of you individually, so we kindly ask for your patience while we work through this.
'Lastly, we ask everyone to please show kindness to our team during this period. They're heartbroken too, and your understanding means everything.
'If you have any questions or concerns, we'd much rather hear from you directly than have misinformation spread. Please don't hesitate to contact us.
'Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your support, love, and loyalty over the years. You've made this place what it is, and we'll never forget it.
'With love, Husky & All of The Courthouse Team.'
Commenting on the post by The Courthouse was leader of Bolton Council Cllr Nick Peel, who said: "We will/are doing our level best to help relocate you. Don't get too down Husky Faldu. Hopefully this could be a new dawn.
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