A CIVIC cortege from Blackburn Town Hall will precede the funeral of the borough's Mayor, Michael Barrett.

Coun Barrett passed away in his sleep overnight on Monday after a period of illness.

A full civic funeral will take place at Blackburn Cathedral on Tuesday, June 8 at 11am following the 10.30am procession through Blackburn's streets.

The funeral party will then leave Blackburn to travel to Darwen's Eastern cemetery for a private, family burial.

The service will be conducted by the Reverend Dean Christopher Armstrong.

Mayors and civic dignitaries from neighbouring boroughs in Lancashire and Greater Manchester are expected to attend.

A reception will then be held at the Windsor Suite in King George's Hall for colleagues, family and friends.

Books of condolence have been opened at town halls in Blackburn and Darwen and in Blackburn Cathedral for people wishing to pay their respects.

Mayoral engagements, which would normally be carried out by the deputy mayor, have been cancelled until after the funeral as a mark of respect. Mayoress Moira Barrett, his wife, said she has been overwhelmed with messages of support and sympathy she has received from his friends and colleagues at the council.

Funeral arrangements are being made by Darwen Funeral Services in liaison with the Mayor's family, the cathedral authorities and the council.

Coun Barrett was due to stand for re-election in Earcroft ward in June. The local election in that ward has been cancelled as a result of his death and a convention by-election will be held on July 15.

The Mayoress has asked for donations in memory of her husband to be made to his mayoral charity - United We Stand, Divided We Fall.

For more information on how to donate, contact the Mayor's office on 01254 585229.