Refugee Week in Blackburn with Darwen: Events Led by the Women Who Know What It Means to Start Over
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
Council Leader Welcomes Spending Review – But Stresses Blackburn Must Benefit
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.
Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes and Vapes Seized in Blackburn Trading Standards Operation
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.
The Future of Corporation Park Conservatory — Have Your Say on Blackburn’s Neglected Gem
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.
Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes and Vapes Seized in Blackburn Trading Standards Operation
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.
The Future of Corporation Park Conservatory — Have Your Say on Blackburn’s Neglected Gem
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.
Blackburn Pride 2025: A Day to Celebrate, Be Seen and Be Proud
Blackburn is getting ready to burst into colour as Pride 2025 returns to the town on Saturday 21st June — and this year promises to be louder, prouder, and more inclusive than ever.
Millions Poured Into Blackburn’s Roads – Is Your Street on the List?
Big plans are rolling out across Blackburn with Darwen – and it’s not just about filling potholes.
Blackburn’s new builds triple in popularity
Interest in new homes for sale in Blackburn has soared by 271%, reveals local housebuilder Countryside Homes.
Know a Local Hero? Nominate Them for the 2025 Community Volunteer Awards!
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to help others? Now’s your chance to say thank you.
Janome Summer Sale Now On at Hobkirks!
Sewing fans — the Janome Summer Sale has officially landed!
Still Waiting for a Double-Double: Tim Hortons in Blackburn: What’s Happened to the Plans?
In August 2023, it was announced that Blackburn was set to welcome a new drive-thru restaurant from popular Canadian coffee and doughnut brand Tim Hortons. Hopes were high for a swift opening at the proposed site on Townsmoor Retail Park — the former home of Carphone Warehouse. The plans promised 50 new jobs, a new food and drink destination, and a much-needed boost for the retail park.
Are Blackburn Drivers Still Paying the Highest Fuel Prices in Lancashire?
New figures show that Blackburn motorists continue to face some of the highest petrol and diesel prices in the region, reigniting long-standing concerns that the town’s drivers are being unfairly penalised at the pump.
New Lennon Stage Show Brings Iconic Songs and Untold Stories to Blackburn
Music fans in Blackburn are in for something truly special this summer as a brand-new stage show about the legendary John Lennon arrives at the Blackburn Empire Theatre for one night only on Thursday 12 June 2025.
🧵 New Brother Machine Offers + Free Delivery on Fabrics & Haberdashery! 🧵
Hobkirks have launched brand new Brother sewing machine offers — now available online and in-store!
Blackburn’s After-Hours Identity Crisis: Where Do We Go From Here?
Blackburn’s nightlife has taken another hit with the closure of The Rock Box on King William Street. More than just a bar, The Rock Box had become a focal point for Blackburn’s live music scene and a rare haven for fans of rock and alternative culture. Now shuttered after months of financial difficulty, its closure raises bigger questions about Blackburn’s ability to sustain drinking venues and night-time culture in a rapidly changing town centre.
Five-Star Hit Irish Annie’s Heads to Blackburn After Rave Liverpool Premiere
After a roaring start in Liverpool, complete with standing ovations and five-star reviews, Irish Annie’s is heading to the Blackburn Empire Theatre for one night only — and audiences are in for a real treat.
Emotional Encounter at VE80 Fest: Family Discovers Tribute to WWII Relative
An unexpected and moving moment unfolded at Blackburn’s VE80 Fest in Witton Park, as a family visiting the event discovered a tribute to their own wartime relative on display at the Veterans Living History Museum CIC exhibition.
Unlock a smooth move in Blackburn this May
Considering your next home? Bovis Homes will provide tips for those looking to upsize, downsize or move up the property ladder at its special Home Movers weekend on 10th – 11th May.
Hobkirk Launches Exclusive Sewing & Embroidery Offers This Spring
Hobkirk Sewing Machines in Blackburn is offering a series of exciting deals throughout May – perfect for sewing enthusiasts looking to upgrade their equipment or try something new.
Standing Ovation for ‘Beauty and the Beast’ in Blackburn – A Must-See Musical Hit
A full house, a standing ovation, and wave after wave of applause — Beauty and the Beast has roared into Blackburn Empire Theatre with style, spirit, and spectacle.
VE80 Fest Gears Up for a Massive Day of Music, Community and Commemoration in Blackburn
Witton Park in Blackburn is preparing to host one of the region’s most anticipated community events — VE80 Fest — marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
Big Soul Night Cancelled at King George’s Hall
The highly anticipated Big Soul Night Out scheduled for Saturday 24 January 2026 at King George’s Hall in Blackburn has been cancelled.
Appeal Lodged Over Refused Gypsy Caravan Site – What It Means for Action at Hall Moss Farm
An appeal has been lodged against the Council’s refusal of planning permission for an unlawful caravan site in Darwen – and while the appeal is underway, the Council’s enforcement action to remove the site is effectively paused.
Thread Offer Sew Good – Hobkirk Launches 20% Discount on Popular Sewing Threads
Hobkirk Sewing Machines is offering a limited-time 20% discount on some of its most popular sewing threads — perfect for keen sewists planning their next project.
Blackburn BID Seeking New Manager as Role Becomes Vacant
Blackburn’s Business Improvement District (BID) is recruiting for a new BID Manager, following a change in leadership.
The UK’s tallest transportable observation wheel has arrived in Blackburn town centre – and it’s HUGE!
Catch it in Cathedral Square from this Saturday for 5 weeks – covering both May Bank Holidays, VE Day, and half-term.
From Injury to Triumph: Blackburn Runner Completes First Marathon on Her Birthday
Blackburn Road Runners’ Lynne Knowles had more than one reason to celebrate last weekend — not only was it her birthday, but she also completed her first-ever marathon at the Manchester Marathon, overcoming a major injury along the way.