As plans move forward to turn the former Malcolm’s Musicland premises into a café with a flat above, this picture gallery looks back at the much-loved Chorley institution through the years.
Malcolm’s Musicland opened around 1972, initially trading from Chorley’s Arcade before moving to its familiar home in the former Baptist chapel at 38A Chapel Street.
Run by Malcolm Allen for more than 50 years, the shop became a fixture of town-centre life, selling records and later CDs to generations of music fans.
It was also well known as a ticket outlet for theatres, concerts and events across Lancashire, while famous visitors included Annie Lennox, Kim Wilde, Lulu, The Nolans - and even Bob Carolgees with Spit the Dog.
The store closed last year following Malcolm’s death in January after a decade-long battle with prostate cancer. The gallery captures some of the people, events and memories that helped make Malcolm’s Musicland such an enduring part of Chorley.
9. Funeral of Malcolm Allen of Malcolm's Musicland in Chorley
Mourners applaud as the funeral procession of Malcolm Allen owner of Malcolm's Musicland in Chorley makes its way past his shop in 2025
10. Malcolm Allen, owner of Malcolm's Musicland in Chorley town centre. The shop has been open for 53 years since 1972. Since Oasis announced their reunion gigs next year, he has sold many Oasis records, cds and dvds to fans.
Malcolm Allen, owner of Malcolm's Musicland in Chorley town centre. The shop has been open for 53 years since 1972. Since Oasis announced their reunion gigs next year, he has sold many Oasis records, cds and dvds to fans. | Michelle Adamson/National World
12. Chorley’s famous Flat Iron market has moved to the streets of town. Traders set up their stalls in Chapel Street, Fazakerley Street, New Market Street, Cleveland Street and the bottom half of High Street on Tuesday, July 4 for the first time. From now on, every Tuesday stall holders will be found lining the streets with their ware right along side with shop owners.
Malcom Allen of Malcolm's Musicland.