“Heart and Soul of Blackburn’s Cultural Scene” – Blackburn Empire Volunteers Crowned Group of the Year
Blackburn Empire Theatre’s volunteers have been named Group of the Year at the 2025 Community Volunteer Awards, honouring more than two decades of dedication to local arts and culture.
£20m Pride in Place plan sets out vision for future investment in Darwen
A £20 million Pride in Place plan has been unveiled for Darwen, setting out priorities for investment in the town centre, parks, skills, and community projects over the next decade.
Council issues statement on rumours about the Islington Hotel in Blackburn
Blackburn with Darwen Council has clarified that it has no involvement in any plans to change the use of the Islington Hotel and has not been informed of any proposals to repurpose it for asylum accommodation.
Council quashes wild rumours about former Blackburn pub
Blackburn with Darwen Council has moved to quash rumours circulating on social media about the future of the former Gate Bar and Grill on Livesey Branch Road. The Council has
Spies, Secrets and Lies – Cold War Drama Comes to Blackburn Empire
This November, Blackburn Drama Club brings suspense and intrigue to the Blackburn Empire Theatre with their latest production, Pack of Lies.
£20m Pride in Place plan sets out vision for future investment in Darwen
A £20 million Pride in Place plan has been unveiled for Darwen, setting out priorities for investment in the town centre, parks, skills, and community projects over the next decade.
What’s On in Blackburn: Monday 3 – Sunday 9 November 2025
What’s happening in Blackburn & Darwen this week? From Remembrance services and 1940s variety shows to community choir performances, spiritual experiences under Gaia, and candlelit concerts — it’s a week full of reflection, remembrance and inspiration.
Blackburn Cathedral creates new Safeguarding Board after years of failures and damning audit
Blackburn Cathedral has established a Safeguarding Improvement Board to oversee reform following years of safeguarding failings and the 2025 INEQE audit, which found arrangements “inadequate and requiring immediate action.”
Remembrance events across Blackburn with Darwen
Remembrance events and services will take place across Blackburn and Darwen this November, giving communities the opportunity to honour those who served and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The ultimate gift: celebrate Christmas in a new Blackburn home
Homebuyers could celebrate Christmas in their new home thanks to Bovis Homes’ commitment to reducing upfront costs.
Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society invites new members to join 2026 production of Patience
Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society is welcoming new members for its next production, Patience, coming to Blackburn Empire Theatre in April 2026.
Illegal cigarettes and vapes seized in Blackburn as part of major Lancashire operation
Thousands of packets of illegal cigarettes and tobacco were seized from a Blackburn shop during a major Lancashire Police and Trading Standards operation targeting businesses selling illicit goods.
Council issues statement on rumours about the Islington Hotel in Blackburn
Blackburn with Darwen Council has clarified that it has no involvement in any plans to change the use of the Islington Hotel and has not been informed of any proposals to repurpose it for asylum accommodation.
What’s On in Blackburn: Monday 27 October – Sunday 2 November 2025
Looking for things to do in Blackburn & Darwen this half-term? 🎃 From spooky Halloween fun to live music, dance showcases, and one of the region’s biggest bonfire events — our What’s On Guide is bursting with things to enjoy this week. Check out all the events or add your own for free!
Gin & Shopping Evening returns to Lingerie by Eve in Blackburn
Lingerie by Eve’s Gin & Shopping Evening returns to Blackburn this November, with exclusive offers, free gifts and a friendly night of festive shopping.
Police issue Halloween safety reminder for Blackburn and Darwen
Blackburn and Darwen Police are reminding residents to keep Halloween fun and respectful, with extra patrols planned and advice for safe trick-or-treating across the borough.
Beautiful South’s Briana Corrigan to perform intimate show at Blackburn Empire
Beautiful South’s Briana Corrigan brings her distinctive vocals to Blackburn Empire Theatre this October for an intimate evening of story and song.
Poppy Appeal launches across Blackburn and Darwen to honour those who served
The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal has launched in Blackburn and Darwen, with community hubs now open in The Mall and Darwen Market to honour those who served and support Armed Forces families.
Police day of action targets driving offences, speeding and antisocial behaviour in Darwen and surrounding villages
Police officers from the Blackburn with Darwen Neighbourhood Team have carried out a day of action across Darwen and the rural areas, working alongside a number of partners to tackle community concerns and enforce road safety.
⏰ Do you love or hate it when the clocks go back?
It’s that time of year again — when half of us cheer for an extra hour in bed and the other half groan about the nights drawing in.
Brother Sewing Machine Offers at Hobkirk in Blackburn
Local sewing and craft specialists Hobkirk Sewing Machines have announced a new range of Brother machine offers, with up to £200 off selected models for a limited time.
Everything you need to know about Blackburn’s Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025
The full line-up for Blackburn’s Christmas Lights Switch-On has been confirmed, featuring a packed day of entertainment, a new undercover market, and a spectacular projection show to launch the festive season.
New Savers Store Set to Open in Blackburn’s The Mall
A new name in health, home, and beauty retail is moving into The Mall Blackburn—Savers is set to open soon in the former Bodycare unit, bringing its big brand discounts to the heart of town.
What’s On in Blackburn: Monday 20 October – Sunday 26 October
Discover events in Blackburn & Darwen for 20–26 October 2025: musicals, comedy, markets, folk legends, Halloween fun, and more. Over 30 events this week!
Kelly Llorenna to headline Darwen Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025
Dance music star Kelly Llorenna will headline this year’s Darwen Christmas Lights Switch-On, bringing her powerhouse vocals and festive sparkle to Darwen Market Square on Saturday, November 15.
Blackburn rapist told 12 year old victim to say she was 16 if asked
A Blackburn man has been jailed for 16 years after grooming and raping a 12-year-old girl he met on Snapchat.
Police Respond to Complaint After Woman Detained Outside Blackburn Mosque
Lancashire Police have confirmed a formal complaint has been lodged after officers detained a woman in the car park of Jamia Ghosia Mosque in Blackburn on Friday evening.
What’s On in Blackburn: Monday 13 October – Sunday 19 October
Explore Blackburn’s top events for 13–19 October 2025! 🎭 From comedy legends and live music tributes to family fun and local festivals, find out what’s on this week.