ORGANISERS of one of Blackburn's biggest events have chosen the Lancashire Evening Telegraph Magic Eye Appeal as their charity for this year.

Blackburn Rotaract, which organises the Witton Park November bonfire display which attracts thousands of visitors each year, has given its backing to the appeal.

The event, which has become a landmark in the town's calendar since 1981, has been organised by Rotaract with support from the Rotary clubs of Blackburn and Darwen for more than 20 years.

Last year it was the subject of a campaign by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, when organisers warned it might have to be cancelled if a sponsor could not be found. Once sponsors Brookhouse Holdings plc and Forbes Solicitors came forward, and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council gave a £1,000 grant, the event went ahead with an estimated 10-15,000 people attending and raised £5,750 for the Blackburn-based drug addicts and homeless charity the THOMAS foundation (Those on the Margins of Society).

Organisers at Rotaract hope to beat last year's total and raise even more money, which will go towards the appeal, which aims to raise £200,000 to buy a special scanner which will be able to diagnose and detect stomach and oesophageal cancers more quickly and accurately.

The appeal is for the benefit of the whole of East Lancashire.

Bonfire chairman Heather Schofield said: "We feel that this is a valuable piece of equipment for the people of East Lancashire and hope to raise a significant amount for the campaign."

The club is currently looking for a major sponsor which can help to cover the costs of staging the huge event. Last year's bonfire cost £6,000, with the fireworks alone - a favourite with the crowds - costing around £3000.

In the past, the event has raised money for Blackburn Royal Infirmary, Marie Curie Cancer Care, the East Lancs Hospice, Derian House and the RSPCA.

Rotaract is an international organisation for people between 18 and 30 to take part in a variety of activities, and also raises money for charity.

Magic Eye appeal co-ordinator, Sheila Shaw, said: "It is very encouraging to hear that Rotaract have indicated that they wish to support the Magic Eye Appeal.

"Their participation indicates their commitment to community progression and a willingness for young people to be involved.

"The bonfire event will be a big, fun event which many people will be able to enjoy whilst helping to raise funds for a good cause."

For more information on Blackburn Rotaract and the Blackburn bonfire go to the website at www.rotaract.org/blackburn or if you would like to sponsor the event contact chairman Heather Schofield on 01254 825608.