THEY have been waiting for more than 17 years.

But the moment that Blackburn Rovers and Burnley fans have been longing for was finally announced today.

The teams will clash on December 16 at Turf Moor with the return match at Ewood Park on March 31, 2001.

And today supporters from both sides were already expressing their excitement -- and trepidation -- at the thought of the big East Lancashire derby.

Sean Borman, president of Burnley Supporters' Club, said the match would be a dream come true.

"When Rovers won the Premiership in 1995, we were in the old second division and the thought that we would be playing them in a few years was just a pipedream.

"The rivalry is as strong as any other derby including those in Merseyside, Manchester and Glasgow. There is talk of trouble, but I just hope it is a good day for all supporters. "

Paul Smith, Boundary Clarets organiser, said: "Stan Ternent is a local lad and will know all about the rivalry. But I am sure the Blackburn players and fans will be telling Graeme Souness how important the match is."

But Rovers fan Phil Lloyd, chairman of the supporters' panel at Ewood Park, said it was a bigger game for Burnley than it would be for Blackburn.

He said: "I think Rovers fans will be playing down both games. There is only six points at stake. I hope there is no trouble although I am sure the club and the police will have some ideas about how to prevent it."