A DISUSED building in Blackburn shopping centre is having its interior taken apart ahead of demolition work.

Builders are removing parts that can be reused, including escalators and lift shafts, from the former TJ Hughes building.

Underground telephone wires are being re-routed, and hoardings are being put up in preparation for the demolition of the Lord Square eyesore - originally scheduled for October - which will not start until after Christmas.

The Mall's £66m redevelopment is set to be open in October 2009.

Bosses say it will "change the face of retail in the town".