BLACKBURN Rovers fans are invited to celebrate with the team's promotion as the borough throws a civic reception to mark the achievement.

Fans are being urged to pack out One Cathedral Square on Bank Holiday Monday, May 7th to welcome the first team squad along with manager Tony Mowbray and congratulate the club following its promotion back to the Championship at the first time of asking.

Blackburn with Darwen has helped organise the event, which will start at 4.30pm when the mayor, Cllr Colin Rigby, will kick off the celebrations.

BBC Radio Lancashire’s Andy Bayes will compere the event, with the station broadcasting from the site.

This free event is non-ticketed and being run on a first come first served basis, so early attendance is advisable.

Cllr Rigby said: "Rovers have been promoted back to the Championship at the first time of asking in style, with long unbeaten runs, lots of goals and playing some fantastic football.

"It’s only fitting that we celebrate such a successful season in the town centre with the club and its fans.

"The council is delighted to host this event and we are inviting Rovers fans from far and wide to turn out on Bank Holiday Monday and help make it an occasion to remember.

"Having a successful team is good for Blackburn with Darwen – with more visitors being attracted to the area and an increased sense of prestige and happiness for those from the borough.

Rovers chief executive Steve Waggott added: "The club are both honoured and delighted that the council have invited us to a civic reception to celebrate our promotion back to the championship at the first attempt.

"Gaining promotion is always a special achievement and something that needs to be shared with all connected with the club.

"We are all looking forward to it being a great occasion."