Blackburn set to Celebrate Double Win with Street Party tomorrow

Blackburn will be turning red, white and blue tomorrow during the “The Great British High Street Party” to celebrate the town’s double win in the national Great British High Street Awards.

Blackburn won the Town Centre of the Year award and was also crowned “Winner of Winners” in the competition which attracted over 900 entries from across the UK.

The event on Saturday 15^th July runs from 10am to 6pm and will see a range of entertainment, music, stalls and street food bring the carnival-style party alive.

The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Colin Rigby OBE, will be hosting a civic reception with an official plaque unveiling at 3pm by High Streets and Northern Power House Minister, Jake Berry MP, and the Member of Parliament for Blackburn Kate Hollern. This will take place following short speeches on the bandstand close to Blackburn Town Hall in King William Street.

Cllr Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said:

Winning this award is a terrific achievement for the town. We were up against some tough competition but the judges could clearly see the many developments that are making sure Blackburn keeps on improving. There is a definite feel around town that things are changing for the better which is great for everybody.

High Streets and Northern Powerhouse Minister Jake Berry MP added:

Blackburn’s turnaround is extraordinary, with increased footfall resulting from multi million pound investment over recent years.

New businesses have moved into the town centre and previously vacant shops have been filled thanks to the strong relationship between the Business Improvement District and Council.

Blackburn’s remarkable progress is testament to their hard work and I can’t wait to see the results as they continue on their journey.

Blackburn has done terrifically well to win the Great British High Street competition and this celebration is a triumph for communities across the Northern Powerhouse.

This celebration is a way of thanking everyone and will help further strengthen the special partnership between the Council, the Blackburn BID and local businesses.”

Musical acts start from 11am with key performances from Motown Mix at 4pm and star of the show Sarah Ikumu at 5pm (All timings are approximate).