HISTORY will be made in the House of Lords tomorrow when the 'Blackburn Three' get together.

Adam Patel will officially take his seat as Lord Patel of Blackburn - with Lord Taylor of Blackburn and Baroness Castle of Blackburn at his side.

It is believed to be the first time in history that three peers from the same town have gathered for the welcoming of a new member to the house.

The official introduction ceremony for Lord Patel is due to take place at precisely 2.34pm. Each new peer needs two supporters to introduce them to the house in a traditional ceremony dating back centuries.

"It will be the first time that three peers from the same town have done this and quite a coup for Blackburn," said Lord Taylor.

The ceremony will involve Lord Patel swearing an oath of allegiance to the House before he is officially allowed to take his seat. Lord Patel was one of only six new Life Peers named in this year's New Year's honours list - along with famous names including Sir Leon Brittan and BBC boss Sir John Birt.

Father-of-eight Mr Patel, 59, of Snodworth Hall, Langho, was born in India and studied business management and accountancy there.

He came to Blackburn in 1965 and worked as an accountant at Ivan Jacques' practice.

He later became managing director of Comet Cash and Carry, which he still runs.

He is a founder member of Blackburn with Darwen Racial Equality Council and a founder chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques.

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