WORLD Cup squad players were on the ball for the latest town centre promotion.

The Blackburn Rovers hit-men Kevin Gallacher and Billy McKinlay and 'keeper Tim Flowers took time out from training to lend their support to the latest 'It's Happening' event which kicks off next Saturday with a family fun day in Blackburn town centre.

Flags from 32 nations competing in the tournament will be flown around the town as football fever takes over.

Town stores will be joining in the World Cup-themed events that will go some way towards making up for the shortage of tickets in France!

Councillor Andy Kay, chairman of regeneration for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "There are lots of ways to join in the World Cup atmosphere without actually having to travel away from Blackburn!

"There will be a whole host of events organised by the council in conjunction with the shopping centre, Chamber of Trade and individual stores. There is something for everyone - even those who don't like football!"

The events begin with a fun day in King William Square consisting of street entertainment galore and special in-store promotions. And Farleys World Cup Fives mini-football tournament takes place in Witton Park on the same day.

On Sunday, June 14, a World Cup favourite, the Three Tenors Concert, will be held in King George's Hall from 2pm to 4pm, featuring Jim Fitzgerald, Geoff Coles and Morgan-Le-James.

And the town centre streets will be full of comic chaos as street performers Lady Christobel and Her Butler go about their business. Saturday, June 20, sees a Lantern Fair in the grounds of Blackburn Cathedral between 10.30am and 4pm. There will be stalls, crafts, live entertainment and lots of other activities for all ages, including an evening barbecue and firework display.

King William Square lights up once again on the same day with street entertainment from Artizani and on Sunday, June 28, a Family Fun Day with children's roadshow is the final fixture.

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