IT has been serving beer to working men and women of the Colne Valley for more than 130 years.

But now the history of a once-popular club in Linthwaite has gone under the hammer.

The historic Hoyle Ing Working Men’s Club in Linthwaite has closed its doors for the last time after an auction of the fixtures and fittings.

The club, on Hoyle Ing Road, closed last June due to a lack of interest and customers. But it re-opened on Saturday in a bid to clear out the club by selling any remaining items.

The club opened its doors back in 1875 and rapidly became a popular hangout for workers to enjoy a drink after their shifts at the thriving local textile mills.

A former trustee of the club, Mick Iredale, has been a member there for over 42 years.

He said: “It was extremely sad when it closed. It will be greatly missed by a lot of locals in Linthwaite.

“It has been a great family club; everyone knew one another and everyone knew they were always welcome.”

Michael Beaumont and his wife, Margaret, had been members for 35 years. Five years ago Michael joined the board of trustees.

He said: “There was always a very good friendly crowd, no matter what time of the day you came to the club.

“It always prided itself on being family- orientated. There was a time when it was so busy that many of us couldn’t even get a seat.

“It’s the end of an era really, and a very sad day for many of us who spent a lot of time here.”

The club was a big part of the Linthwaite community for many years, with families packing inside to catch up with friends after a day at work.

Bob Howieson, a former committee member, said: “I used to come in here about four to five times a week, just to meet everyone and catch up with friends in the village.

“I’m very sad to see it close, the atmosphere was always extremely welcoming.”

The future of the club site is unknown after the Dyson’s Mill company bought the building in 2006.