A PRESTON parishioner has lent a special hand to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Blackburn Diocese.

The Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev Alan Chesters, unveiled a specially designed logo which will mark the anniversary celebrations next week.

The logo, designed by Gary Hindle, treasurer of St Cuthbert church in Fulwood, Preston, shows the figure '75' superimposed over a map of Lancashire and a cross symbolising the Christian faith.

Gary, 34, from Savick Road, said: "I've been in to print and graphic design for the last ten years, so it was something that interested me right from the start when I was first asked to design the logo.

"Hopefully churches across Lancashire, and indeed Preston, will be using the logo."

He added: "We have had some very positive feedback from people who have already seen it, so hopefully it will make a good impression and people will use it."

Launching the logo at Blackburn Cathedral, the bishop said: "This logo will hallmark the 75th anniversary celebrations across the diocese.

"It uses a cross, a map and a number to remind people of who we are and what we are about -- Christians in the Church of England in Lancashire, who have been making their faith known through worship and service as the diocese of Blackburn for the past 75 years."

He added: "And in celebrating the past throughout 2001, we are also looking forward to all that God is doing to inspire us in the future."

Parishes from across Lancashire will be represented at the formal launch of the anniversary during the Epiphany carol service on Sunday January 7.