Book due for publication early 2026
Madison Square was a town centre pub in Rochdale, Lancashire in the UK. It was owned and run by Greenall Whitley that was a historic UK brewery, founded in 1762, famous for its Warrington base and pubs, but ceased brewing in 1991. I worked here in the late 1980s starting off as a glass collector and then serving behind the bar, once I was old enough! Working in this pub was a pivitol part of my life, forming friendships for life and coming of age.
The pub I worked at, positioned next to the police station in Rochdale. The original signage is gone and was replaced after being sold to become Bar 101, then as a restaurant which has since closed. The conservatory was not present when I worked there. There was just outside seating.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Staff behind the bar including Brad and Spud. In front of the bar was Jon.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
The gents toilets of the pub. You had to be careful to watch your step on a Friday and Saturday night, when the tiled floor became wet, and people occasionally slipped in a drunken state into the urinal.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Staff behind the bar Joanne, Matty, Haydn and myself all looking very 80s cool.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
During the day, this was the food bar. At night time, this is where the occasional 'lock-in' happened.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Ready for a night out. Myself, Haydn, Brad, Matty and Jon.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Customers enjoying a pint of Labbatts or maybe a Pint of Festival?
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Dressed to impress on a night out in Madison Square.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Notice the smart uniform of a white shirt and dickie bow. This later changed to a custom embroidered polo shirt for all staff.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Customers stood by the front doors dressed for Halloween. Notice the large TV screens of the video jukebox.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
1980s hair and fashion at it's best.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Customers and staff who went on a day trip to Alton Towers.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Most of the customers in fancy dress for a Rocky Horror themed night at the pub.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Customers dressed up by the video jukebox.
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Guest DJs, karaoke and other acts would have regular slots on quieter nights. I dread to think what is going on here!
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook
Even back in the 80s Madison Square was keen to show equal opportunities with not just wet t-shirt competitions, but also wet shorts competitions!
Credit to Madison Square Rochdale group, Facebook