WITH Blackburn again bidding for city status, residents must realise that if they are to enjoy the increased prosperity and facilities resulting from a successful attempt, they must get behind the council officials, councillors and the local MP to support the town.

We must all look forward and not continually put Blackburn down. Blackbun will only achieve city status if we all start to think like an international, multi-racial city and not like an 18th century rural village.

Many residents offer the town's football team unquestioning devotion and support them with vigour and enthusiasm. If these same people would offer just a small proportion of their energies to the town and support it through good times and bad, Blackburn would be so strong that it could not be refused the increased status it seeks and deserves.

If this bid fails, everyone should feel guilty and not just 'pass the buck' to those who are active and do care about the town's future.

Blackburnians should act postitively and think: 'Forward with Blackburn.'

PAULINE VAUGHAN, Higher Church Street, Blackburn.