Breaking News in Blackburn
Stay informed with the most pressing and breaking stories from Blackburn. From major events to urgent updates, find it here.
Hobkirk launches January Sale with 25% off across a huge range
Local sewing and craft specialists Hobkirk Sewing Machines have launched their January Sale, with 25% off a wide range of products available both online and in store.
Long-standing Darwen fashion boutique Solitaire announces closure after 48 years
A well-known independent fashion boutique in Darwen has announced it will close its doors after nearly five decades in business.
Hobkirk launches January Sale with 25% off across a huge range
Local sewing and craft specialists Hobkirk Sewing Machines have launched their January Sale, with 25% off a wide range of products available both online and in store.
Long-standing Darwen fashion boutique Solitaire announces closure after 48 years
A well-known independent fashion boutique in Darwen has announced it will close its doors after nearly five decades in business.

Rehoming charities across Blackburn are experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand, highlighting the growing need for people willing to open their homes to rescue dogs. Against this backdrop, the makers

Panto season is back in Blackburn with a bang as Snow White opens at Blackburn Empire Theatre – and it is already a record-breaking year.
Older Blackburn News
Did you miss out? Here are some of the older stories and news about Blackburn and Darwen

Skip a step on the housing ladder in Darwen
A DEPOSIT boost worth almost £17,000 could help homebuyers in Darwen to skip a rung on the property ladder.
Final opportunity to join Brookfield Vale community
Brookfield Vale is nearing sell-out with just one home remaining at Countryside Homes’ only Blackburn development.

Big Black Friday deals on Brother sewing machines at Hobkirk Blackburn
Huge Black Friday deals have arrived at Hobkirk Blackburn, with discounts across Brother sewing, quilting and embroidery machines — including bundle offers and 0% finance. These savings run until 1 December.
Blackburn News Archive
All the archived stories from Blackburn Life – News about Blackburn and Darwen
Looking for something fun to do in Blackburn or Darwen this week? From live music and family days out to comedy, variety, and special events — we’ve got it all covered in one handy guide!
Blackburn Cathedral is again under intense scrutiny as the fallout from decades of safeguarding failures continues to unfold—with the suspension of its Dean, the departure of its safeguarding officer, and emergency meetings now being held with the congregation.
Bovis Homes is thanking the family and friends who help loved ones buy a new home, with the Bank of Mum and Dad paying out £9.6 billion a year. In

Looking for things to do in Blackburn & Darwen next week? Here’s your round-up of live music, family events, comedy, variety, and more — all happening from Monday to Sunday!
There was an extra special birthday to celebrate at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery this week – and it wasn’t just about candles and cake.
Trading Standards officers in Blackburn with Darwen have seized fake Labubu dolls over serious safety concerns — and parents are being urged to check their children’s toys immediately.
He’s bold, he’s hilarious, and he’s definitely not for the faint-hearted – Ken Webster, the UK’s most outrageous comedy hypnotist, is bringing his wild live show to Blackburn
Blackburn’s Corporation Park has served up a sporty upgrade this summer – with refurbished tennis courts now open for public use and brand-new pickleball courts on the way.
Darwen Leisure Centre’s brand-new inflatable pool attraction has already made waves – with first sessions on Saturday 19 July selling out fast.

Myerscough College has confirmed that it will close its Witton Park campus in Blackburn, following a consultation period with staff and stakeholders.
Discover the best dining experiences, as ranked by TripAdvisor reviewers.
The new mural, Floral Timekeepers, by world-renowned artist Morag Myerscough, fills the car park wall with vibrant colours, giant flowers and positive energy – creating a sharp contrast with the
Blackburn with Darwen has joined communities around the world in marking the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, remembering the more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys murdered in the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War.
Here’s your round-up of live music, family events, comedy, variety, and more — all happening from Monday to Sunday!
From beginner-friendly machines to professional embroidery models, these deals are only available until 30th July 2025 – so you’ll need to be quick! What’s on Offer: Whether you’re upgrading your
A powerful mix of comedy and emotion takes centre stage at the Blackburn Empire Theatre this month, as Living the Life of Riley comes to town on Wednesday 16 July 2025.
Sir Jake Berry, who represented Rossendale and Darwen for 14 years, has announced his decision to join Reform UK – the party led by Nigel Farage – in a move shaking up national and local politics.
Plans have been revealed for the biggest transformation of Darwen Market in a generation — turning the historic Market Hall into a modern food hall destination, complete with artisan stalls, upgraded facilities, and opening hours running through to 10pm every night.
If you’ve noticed more theft, antisocial behaviour, or trouble on Blackburn’s streets lately — you’re not alone. Crime in town centres like ours has surged across the country, but this summer, a major effort is underway to turn things around.
Independent audit reveals safeguarding leadership failings and the continuing impact of historic abuse cases, despite years of reviews and promises of reform
Here’s your round-up of live music, family events, comedy, variety, and more — all happening from Monday to Sunday!
New campaign urges Blackburn with Darwen residents to donate to local charities instead.
Dig out your chokers, charge up your Nokia, and prepare to throw it back to the days of boybands, girl power and neon everything.
This week, Blackburn with Darwen has joined a national celebration honouring the people who quietly change lives every day — the carers behind the Shared Lives programme.
🎭 Your guide to events, shows, live music, and more this week in Blackburn
From family favourites to comedy gigs, there’s something for everyone in Blackburn this week.
Steel frames are going up, excitement is building, and Darwen’s next big thing for young people is finally coming to life.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has hosted a first-of-its-kind conference dedicated to celebrating dads — and pushing for stronger support for fathers across the borough.
After a temporary relocation, Darwen Town Hall is set to reopen its front desk services next week.
Blackburn and Darwen will come together next week to honour the UK’s Armed Forces with special flag-raising ceremonies at both town halls.
Blackburn with Darwen residents are being urged to have their say in a new set of surveys that will help shape the future of local transport and highways.
Nancy Kinyanjui (Kairos Housing), Salma Mohamed (ARC), and Zainab Elbusefi (DARE) are behind a full week of inspiring, thought-provoking and family-friendly events taking place from Sunday 16 June to Saturday 22 June.
One of Blackburn’s biggest weekends is just around the corner – and if you’re looking for a fun-packed family day out, the National Festival of Making is one you won’t want to miss.
Blackburn with Darwen Council Leader Phil Riley has responded to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Spending Review by welcoming new pledges on youth support, social care, infrastructure and housing — while warning that the borough must not be left behind.
It sounds like something straight off a price tag – but it’s true. Budget retailer Poundland has been sold for just £1 in a shock move that could see up to 100 stores shut down across the UK.
A major haul of illegal cigarettes and vapes has been uncovered at four Blackburn businesses following an enforcement operation by Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Trading Standards team, supported by police.
Once a symbol of Blackburn’s Victorian pride, the Corporation Park Conservatory now stands boarded up, rusting and forgotten. But that could all change — and your opinion could help shape its future.