DURING the 1960s many towns had their hearts ripped out of them by planners intent upon making all settlements look the same.

Fortunately, some towns turned back from the brink, with Blackburn and Darwen having the good sense to retain some of their character.

Blackburn has good shopping, some important Victorian buildings and a magnificent cathedral, all set close to the countryside, while Witton Country Park has retained a delightful blend of history and natural history.

Blackburn's place in textile history was due in no small measure to John James Hargreaves, born at Stanhill, between Blackburn and Oswaldtwistle, in 1745.

There is still a Hargreaves connection with cotton as his descendants run the Hilden Mill and the shopping complex of Oswaldtwistle Mills.

Anyone who wants to see examples of early spinning Jennies and other machines should visit Oswaldtwistle Mills and also the Lewis Textile Museum in the centre of Blackburn.

Blackburn Museum is a joy and describes the history of the town from the Stone Age through the Roman era to the Industrial Revolution and on to the present day.

In the 1940s Mr RE Hart, who although an MA for Cambridge made his fortune from his ropeworks, gave money to construct a gallery in the museum to display his collection of medieval manuscripts, coins and books.

Hart also left money to repair Witton House but the local council did not proceed with the work in the 1960s.

Dry rot destroyed what would have been a tourist honeypot.

Not all was lost, however, and some outbuildings remain and are the focus for a popular Country Park, pond and playing fields..

Nature trails lead through the woodlands up to a heather-clad hill top which the Fielden family used as a grouse moor.

The family vaults are situated below St Mark's Church on Buncer Lane.

The old stables and coach house now contain a well-maintained collection of small mammals, Victorian carriages and a cafe.

If Blackburn now lacks a complete old hall there are two such structures situated on the outskirts of the town at Samlesbury and Hoghton Tower.