INDIVIDUALS and voluntary groups across Blackburn and Darwen are invited to an 'Open House' at Blackburn Central Library to help promote an event to celebrate the Commonwealth Games.

The Spirit of Friendship Festival takes place from March 11 to August 10 and will combine sport, art, culture and education.

Officers at Blackburn with Darwen Council's Community Events Unit are eager to talk to individuals or groups to discuss their plans to celebrate.

Executive Member for Leisure and Culture for Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Kate Hollern said: "A warm welcome awaits anyone who is involved in the organisation of an event to celebrate this great occasion.

"The event does not need to be sport orientated and we look forward to putting together an interesting and varied programme of art, culture and education, in our multi-cultural community."

The 'Open House' will be in Blackburn Central Library on Town Hall Street in the Town Centre, on Tuesday February 26 from 10am until 7pm.

Anyone unable to get to the library on that day can send details of their event to Steve Lee or Anne Ellwood at the Events Community Unit, Central Library, Town Hall Street, Blackburn, BB2 1AG.

For further details ring 01254 665821/697946/07771 808549.