A borough's pilot pop up school uniform exchange shops will continue in future, a senior councillor has promised.

Health and well-being boss Cllr Damian Talbot made the pledge to Blackburn with Darwen's full Council Forum on Wednesday night.

He told fellow councillors: "A series of school uniform pop-up shops were organised by the Child Poverty Strategy Group and were held in Blackburn and Darwen libraries from August 22 to 26..

"They were used by residents to donate and pick up pre-loved school uniform before the start of term.

"Stock was donated by council staff and residents on the day and from our Family Hubs throughout summer.

"Both pop-ups were well attended, and positive feedback was given by those who picked up uniforms.

"Branded items such as blazers, PE kits and jumpers were in demand and were the first items to be taken in both shops.

"Further signposting was also provided to Rummage Rescuers and SAMS who also stock pre-loved uniforms.

"All uniform that was remaining was sent to the Family Hubs so the community can continue to donate what they can and take what they need.

"Schools that were requested frequently were noted and follow-up work will be undertaken to encourage them to create their own pop-ups and inform parents of where pre-loved uniform can be found.

"Learning from these pilot pop-ups will be taken forward to next summer’s shop activities."

Livesey with Pleasington Conservative, Cllr Paul Marrow, said : "I think that the school uniform exchange is a great idea. I am glad this council is taking it up and long may it continue."

Education boss Cllr Julie Gunn said: "Our schools all have a duty and responsibility to highlight and make people aware that they can access pre-loved uniforms.

"This helps us to help with the cost of living crisis of course but it also helps us to achieve our green credentials because we are about recycling as well because its a really important and useful way of doing that."

Cllr Talbot said: "We all agree this is really important.. The work has been ongoing with the support of the council and its really important that we carry on that work."