The closure of the Swan Hotel in St Helens after 160 years has left a bittersweet feeling among the locals, especially for the landlady, Angela Hindley. Angela, who has been running the pub for the past 15 years, had to hand back the keys as part of the town’s regeneration programme.
Despite her best efforts to save the beloved pub, Angela had to bid farewell to the place that had become a community hub for her customers. The memories made over the years were countless, from legendary Christmas parties to solemn Remembrance Sundays. The pub was not just a town centre establishment, but a place where everyone looked out for one another, forming a big family.
Angela reminisces about the good times shared at The Swan, where customers gathered for live music, raffles, and other events. The pub was a place where laughter filled the air, but also where the community came together to support each other during difficult times. It was a space where memories were created, both joyful and sorrowful, as customers celebrated milestones and mourned losses together.
As Angela looks back at the photos capturing moments from the past 15 years, she is reminded of the bonds forged within the walls of the pub. The closure of The Swan Hotel marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of camaraderie and shared experiences that will be cherished by the community for years to come.
