LACK of support is blamed for the closure of two local institutions.

Stalwarts of defunct Golborne Royal British Legion will shortly hand over the branch standard for safe keeping.

And Leigh town centre hardware specialists Bradleys will close next month.

Peter Bradley, whose late father, Ken, founded the Bradshawgate business over 45 years ago said the shop would shut in mid-March.

Mr Bradley said:"We're closing because of falling trade due to outside influences.

"I think people now shop at superstores or car boot sales rather than go to local, independent suppliers.

"It will be sad to close. We have always tried to stock quality brands of goods but regrettably people seem to want to buy cheap brands."

At Golborne dwindling support caused the cancellation of the Remembrance Day parade.

Former branch secretary Frank Leicester told The Journal:"It will be a sad day but at 10.30am on Sunday, February 22, we will lay-up the standard in the parish church."

Standard bearer John Briscoe will hand it to the Rev Richard Plant at a ceremony involving Legion men Bill Lynch and Jimmy Johnson.

"Any ex-service people who want to attend will be welcome," said Mr Leicester.

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