COUNCIL bosses have unveiled their Christmas plans for Darwen -- promising a magical time for all the family in a bid to attract shoppers.

The town centre has had a difficult year. Plans to introduce parking charges in the town are being considered in a bid to stop commuters parking there all day.

Market traders also claimed they had been overlooked when council bosses introduced a 'free swim when you shop on the market' scheme -- which included swimming baths only in Blackburn.

Major work on main roads into the town have also caused problems.

Stars from the Darwen Library Theatre's Wizard of Oz Christmas production are set to be the guests of honour at the annual Christmas lights switch-on, which takes place at 4pm on Saturday, December 1.

But a whole day of fun and games is being lined up in a bid to entice shoppers and visitors into the town.

Christmas music and chart hits will be played throughout the town during the day.

And there will be a distinctly foreign feel to some of the events, with the Galligreaves Samba band putting on a special festive performance.

Street entertainers and performers will also spend the day in the town centre, and workshops with the cast of the Wizard of Oz have also been arranged for young and old alike.

Coun Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration, said: "We have a lot planned for both Blackburn and Darwen this Christmas. We hope the events in Darwen will attract people to come and explore the town which has a lot to offer."

The borough's regeneration chiefs have also set about advertising some of Darwen's undersold assets -- its restaurants. A spokesman said: "Darwen provides traditional Lancashire shopping with a unique friendly atmosphere. And there is free town centre parking all day long."

Coun Fred Slater said: "There is a feeling that Darwen is overlooked."

Christmas trees are currently being placed throughout the area's villages.

Two are going in Darwen itself, with one in the town centre and one on top of the market hall.

Others are being placed in Hoddlesden, Tockholes, Edgworth, Chapeltown and Belmont.