TWO ground-breaking children's centres have been opened in Blackburn, to the praise of the parents that are to benefit.

Blackburn with Darwen Council bosses have teamed up with education, support and health chiefs to open up the centres, one in Darwen, and one on Fishmoor Drive in Higher Croft.

The buildings are set to offer a range of services for parents and children up to five years, all under one roof.

And at a special open day attended by Blackburn MP Jack Straw, local users got a taste of what is on offer.

Carol Shaw was visiting with daughter Claire Shaw, 22, and granddaughters Caitlin, seven weeks, and Chloe, three-and-a-half.

She said: "The building has been in use for about 15 years, but now it is so different. It's a lot more child friendly.

"There is a lot more for the community. Before it was more a social services building, but now it's reaching out to the community for their needs."

Along with the council, Sure Start and Blackburn with Darwen Primary Care Trust are teaming up to create a network of 13 centres across the borough by 2006, at a cost of £15million.

The centres will offer everything from nursery and respite care to adult classes, and information on benefits.

Barbara Lambe brought three-year-old Chloe to see the centre.

She said: "It's brilliant, there's everything here in one spot.

"It's like a back-up if you want to go out to work, and everyone is really friendly."

And Rachel Garrity had visited the centre with 19-month-old Kian.

She said: "I have been coming here for years and it's really good. The staff are really helpful. They're here if you have problems as well.

"The centre is for anybody, but the majority of people that use it are from round here. It's made a real difference having this place."

For more information call Sure Start on 01254 667877.