The Dean of Blackburn is to spend some time behind bars this week – but it is all for a great cause.

The Very Reverend Peter Howell-Jones and others will be handcuffed, charged with a crime, photographed and 'jailed' in the police station in the town centre.

This is part of Age UK Blackburn with Darwen's jail and bail fundraising event, which sees people and businesses from the town dress in prison uniforms and spend time behind bars until enough charity money is raised.

Mr Howell-Jones, and his other jail mates, must raise at least £250 in ‘bail money’ each to be released.

Mr Howell-Jones will be joined by representatives from Santander, CMAC group, Grays Schoolwear, and Lancashire Constabulary.

Milo the Blackburn Road Runner’s mascot and Councillor Jackie Floyd will also be spending time behind bars.

All money raised will be donated to Age UK Blackburn with Darwen, an independent charity working in Blackburn with Darwen to offer support and services to older people.

It is not the first time the charity has organised a jail and bail fundraiser.

Last year head of security at Blackburn’s The Mall was involved. Ronnie O’Keeffe helped raise money for the charity.

A spokesperson for Age UK Blackburn with Darwen said: “We are jailing the Very Reverend Peter Howell Jones this Friday in Blackburn town centre police station.

“The Dean is being a very good sport in supporting us in this way and will be promised a fun morning in jail.

“Checks and Greys, a café in Blackburn Cathedral, would be very grateful for the help in raising his bail monies to set him free in time for the weekend."

Vicky Shepherd chief executive at Age UK Blackburn with Darwen said: “Our jail and bail fundraiser is the highlight of our year.

“It is great fun for those who take part and also a good networking opportunity for those who put themselves forward. The event raises vital funds for Age UK Blackburn with Darwen who provide services for older people in the borough."

The cost of living crisis following on so quickly after the Covid pandemic has hit older people very hard, many living on fixed incomes and worried about bills and keeping warm.

Age UK Blackburn with Darwen are at the end of the phone to help with entitlements, advice and services along with a listening ear.

As a local charity they have to raise all their own funding so all bail monies will directly support Blackburn with Darwen's older people

For more information please contact Elaine Jennings at Age UK by emailing elaine.jennings@ageukbwd.org.uk or call her on 01254 266620.

Donate to Peter Howell-Jones' fundraiser by visiting: www.justgiving.com