Tony Bolton

Tony Bolton was a young miscreant who started work at the Mark Brittain Warehouse in October 1974 under the watchful eye of his father, storeman Fred Bolton. Fred that the job would keep the troublesome lad on the straight and narrow, but instead, Tony attached himself to his friend Paul Meggitt, the only member of staff who Fred didn't trust.

When Tony discovered that a load of stuck would be left in the stores overnight, Paul persuaded him to borrow his dad's storeroom key and make a copy. The pair made off with three dozen suede and leather jackets, which were placed in a van where Paul's contact was meant to pick them up. When the contact couldn't keep the appointment, Paul put the van in for servicing at Billy Walker's Canal Garage, telling Tony it would be safe there.

Being the efficient storeman that he was, Fred noticed the missing stock immediately but, suspecting Paul of the theft and knowing that he was friends with Tony, told his son what had happened and that Paul had until morning to return the stolen jackets before her went to the police. Fred also tackled Paul, who tacitly admitted his guilt and alluded to Tony's involvement. A spanner in the works then presented itself when Billy discovered the jackets and found Fred while looking for Tony and Paul. Billy refused to have the jackets on his premises but agreed not to call the police when Fred promised him that the lads would retrieve the jackets that night. Tony and Paul were told of the situation, but handed an ideal scapegoat, Paul shopped Billy and told the police that the van had been empty when he left it at the garage.

While Billy was interviewed by the police, Fred corroborated Tony and Paul's story, although Fred made clear his contempt for his son and thumped him. Fred went to the police when warehouse executive Ken Barlow implored him, pointing out that Tony needed a shock to turn himself around, and if he got off now he may do something worse later. Billy was released immediately, while Tony and Paul were charged with theft and fired from the warehouse.

In his short time at the warehouse, Tony took a fancy to young secretary Tricia Hopkins, and had the occasional drink at the Rovers with her - much to Vera Hopkins's disapproval.

1974

 * Mon 14th Oct
 * Wed 16th Oct
 * Mon 21st Oct
 * Wed 23rd Oct
 * Mon 28th Oct
 * Wed 30th Oct