HUNDREDS of town centre protesters objected to the conflict today and the Bishop of Blackburn spoke of his regret that war had broken out.

The large group, made up mostly of teenagers, packed outside Blackburn Town Hall and chanted their opposition to the overnight attacks on Iraq.

Police did not make any arrests outside the building but one person was believed to have been escorted from the scene and scuffles broke out as the protestors marched down King William Street.

The protest followed calls from peace campaigners for people to stage a mass walk-out from their workplaces, colleges and schools.

Sagid Saqub, 17, of Queen's Park Road, Blackburn, said: "We are against the war as there are going to be innocent people killed. These MPs say the words but they won't be in the firing line."

John Easton, a lecturer at Blackburn College, said: "I agree with people expressing their objection to the war as I think it is a good thing for Blackburn students to come out this morning and protest. However, I don't agree with things getting out of hand."

Earlier, the Rt Rev Alan Chesters, said: "I very much regret that it has come to this and there has not been a common mind by the European nations.

"It is my earnest prayer that the military action will be targeted accurately against the perpetrators of oppression and terrorism, will be quickly completed and that the necessary resources will be provided to establish a democratic government in Iraq and peace throughout the Middle East.

"We shall, of course, continue to work with the members of other faith communities in the North West, and particularly the Islamic community at this time, to ensure the continuation of positive community relations here in Lancashire."

Ibrahim Master, chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, said: "I am deeply saddened that a diplomatic solution could not have been reached and that military action has now regretfully begun.

"While we do not have any affinity for Saddam Hussein, my heart is filled with sorrow for the people of Iraq and for families of our British servicemen and women, for whom this must be an extremely tormenting time. This attack may adversely impact the good race relations we have in Lancashire and hope it will not undermine the good work the Lancashire Council of Mosques is doing in building bridges between communities.

"I fear negative elements will use the Iraq war for fanning the flames of racism through lies and mis-information and will try to polarise and isolate British Muslims.

"I ask all God fearing people to pray for the safety of the innocent people of Iraq."

Coun Bill Taylor, leader of Blackburn With Darwen Council, said: "War is a very difficult and dangerous decision to make. We have to put our trust in decision-makers, such as our MP Jack Straw, and hope the conflict is as short and as bloodless as possible. Our thoughts are with all members of our forces, especially those whose homes are in this area."

Coun Paul Browne, leader of the Liberal Democrat group in Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "I am 100 per cent against the war. I think it is utterly and totally wrong. They haven't given the weapons inspectors enough time. We will get a backlash and that's what I am frightened of."

Ribble Valley Council leader Chris Holtom said: "I would prefer it that there wasn't a war, but Saddam Hussein has presided over a vile regime for well over 20 years and refused to disarm for the last 12. Enough is enough."