A FORMER Leyland boozer, once one of the hottest night spots for miles around, was razed to the ground this week.

People aged 40-plus will remember the Leyland Tiger, on the corner of Longmeanygate and Leyland Lane, as a place where a good night out was always guaranteed.

In the 70s, coach loads would descend on the pub from as far afield as Manchester and pack the popular haunt for an evening of cabaret.

One man who remembers those good ol' Tiger days was comedian Barry 'Wyndham' Winder who entertained the crowds for about 15 years.

Barry, known for his dynamic impressions said: "There used to be five acts from Wednesday through until Sunday and it was always packed.

"All the acts were live and they didn't have the backing tracks you see these days. There was never any trouble when I worked there.

"I remember one time when one of the double acts included a comedian on stage and a chap acting like a drunk at the front door. But the doorman didn't realise he was part of the act and wouldn't let him back in! His other half had to ad-lib the whole slot."

Showbusiness at the Tiger was a family affair for Barry, from Whittle-le-Woods, whose sister-in-law Christine Charkson, now owner of a dance school opposite the former pub, was a compere and singer there.

Other comedy acts to play at the Tiger included 'Wandering Walter' from Preston.

Under the management of Ronny Howarth each act was auditioned in front of a live audience. "Ronny let the crowds make their own judgements. If they liked them he'd take them on."

It closed in the 1980s, was briefly revived as the Leyland Hippodrome, but closed within a few years.