Some locals are lamenting the loss of its rough-as-guts decor and ambiance, while others are relieved that its bar-room brawls, sticky floors and ever-present aroma of stale beer are things of the past.

BBC: Sydney��s bohemian heartland

The Guild spokeswoman said the event celebrated "the creative cultural past, present and future of all things northern".

BBC: Preston Guild opens with float procession and festival