BLACKBURN Cathedral was celebrated during a special service at the weekend.

The event was part of the Blackburn Diocese's 75th Anniversary festivities.

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, and representatives from parishes attended to pay respect to the cathedral for its service to the diocese during those 75 years.

The Blackburn diocese was formed out of the Manchester Diocese in 1926 on the initiative of the Bishop William Temple.

Church leaders have said the anniversary gives the opportunity to take stock, give thanks and build for the future.

Dr Hope has responsibility for the northern half of England's dioceses, and is the leading spokesperson for the Church of England along with the Archbishop of Canterbury.