I shall be reading tonight at Bolton Socialist Club, Wood Street, Bolton. 1905-2025. An old haunt of mine and my father’s. The event promises to be a celebration of literature and community.
The Bolton Socialist Club, fondly known as the world’s oldest independent socialist club, is more than just a venue—it’s a living archive of ideas, resilience, and camaraderie. Established in 1905, its walls have witnessed countless gatherings, from political debates to cultural celebrations. For me, it’s personal. Wood Street holds memories of laughter, shared pints, and the kind of conversations that linger long after the night ends. Tonight, as I return to this old haunt, I feel a sense of continuity, as if the stories of the past are meeting the stories of the present.
In an age of fleeting digital content, there’s something grounding about attending a live reading in a place like the Bolton Socialist Club. It’s a reminder that stories are best shared in person, where the cadence of a writer’s voice and the energy of a listening crowd create something unrepeatable. For me, it’s also a chance to honour the past—my father’s love for this club, the community it has nurtured, and the voices it has amplified over decades.
If you’re in Bolton tonight, I urge you to join us at the Socialist Club on Wood Street. Check out the event details via the link (https://t.co/9JaoYcySA9) and give me a follow (@PeterKa29830408) to stay in the loop. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the club or a newcomer curious about local literature, this is an evening not to be missed.
