TOURISTS of a different kind have begun flocking to Blackburn -- and their interest is only in the workings of the local council!

Blackburn with Darwen Council has begun showing representatives from authorities performing less well than it is around its departments.

Two councils have been to visit so far -- Plymouth City Council and the London borough of Waltham Forest -- both of which were rated as 'poor' in their Government inspections last year.

Blackburn with Darwen Council was rated as 'excellent.'

Waltham Forest Council leader Clyde Loakes said: "We have been very impressed by what we have seen here.

"There is a level of working between officers and councillors which doesn't exist at our council.

"Everyone seems to be working together and Blackburn with Darwen is obviously a borough with a lot going on.

"Even things which haven't got the council stamped all over them have often had some council involvement in making them happen.

"I hope we can learn some lessons from Blackburn and improve our performance as a result."

Council leader at Blackburn, Sir Bill Taylor, said: "We are happy to show people what we have achieved."