Great Lever
Great Lever is mainly a residential suburb of Bolton in Greater Manchester, England. Historically within Lancashire, it is about 2+1⁄2 miles (4.0 km) south of Bolton town centre and the same distance north of Farnworth. Great Lever has many shops and services serving the local community including a post office, butcher's, chemist and a GP surgery. The district has several nursing homes and is served by frequent bus routes running to Bolton town centre, Farnworth and the Royal Bolton Hospital.
Religion
The parish church is St. Michael's. Currently under renovation it is now in its 162nd year and is a Grade 2 listed building. It is a member of the Seven Saints Team and is located at the bottom end of Green Lane at the leafy entrance to Great Lever.
Landmarks
On Green Lane are two large public houses: Southfield's, a pub and restaurant with tennis courts and grassland, and the Brooklyn with a bowling green. Both were houses built for local mill owners. The 'Beehive Mill' remains in use by a mail order company. Great Lever has a park on Green Lane which is home to Bolton Cricket Club. Doe Hey Reservoir is used for private fishing.
Education
The Essa Academy for pupils aged 11 to 16 opened in January 2009. Bishop Bridgeman CE Primary School, St. Michael's C of E Primary School, Lever Edge, St William of York RC Primary School and SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School provide education for under 11s. There are numerous playcentres for pre-school children.
People
One of Great Lever's most famous sons is the footballer Albert Shepherd who had considerable success with Bolton Wanderers and Newcastle United. Former Manchester City striker Paul Moulden owned a chip shop in the area and ex-Bolton player Roy Greaves ran a pub called Monteraze in the area for many years. Ralph Gubbins, a forward with Bolton Wanderers, Tranmere Rovers and Hull City, lived in Great Lever during his time with Wanderers. Another resident was Wales and Bolton Wanderers striker Wyn Davies who also went on to represent both Manchester clubs.
The architect Charles Holden (1875–1960), best known for many buildings for London Underground, was born in Great Lever.