Shoppers got the chance to see Blackburn from a whole new perspective tonight when the big wheel on King William Street opened to the public.

The 108ft Ferris wheel, set to be the centrepiece of the town’s Christmas celebrations, has been built in the town hall square.

The attraction, which has 24 carriages and takes 10 minutes to revolve, will run for four weeks. It will cost £1 a spin and up to six people can get in each carriage.

Christmas food stalls are also open in the area around the wheel.

The scheme has been welcomed by traders in the town centre who hope that it will help attract shoppers in the busy festive period.

Coun Alan Cottam, executive member for regeneration and environment, said: “It’s very exciting and the views will be very interesting. It should help make a festive atmosphere.”

* In tomorrow's paper: first pictures and video of the wheel and the views it affords of the town centre and beyond.