TWO SHOPKEEPERS are going to the top in an attempt to save local businesses from bankruptcy.

Phil Rostron and Mike Crane, who have run businesses in Blackburn for a total of 50 years, were devastated at the dramatic drop in trade at their stores after Blackburn with Darwen Council implemented a ban on A-boards.

Now the pair have informed Home Secretary Jack Straw about the problem and hope to add even more signatures to the 6,000 collected for a petition which will be sent to the Government and the council.

Mr Crane outlined the difficulties faced by business people to Mr Straw at a meeting at Audley Community Centre in Blackburn on Friday - and Mr Straw said he would be writing to the council for more information.

Mr Straw said: "I have been made aware of the situation and will be making a representation to the council on their behalf."

Mr Crane, who runs Crane's Eanam Stores, said: "Mr Straw didn't know the problems local businesses were facing because of the trade they are losing through not having A-boards out. He promised to write to the council to find out just what they are doing." Mr Crane and Mr Rostron, who runs Motorcycle Direct and New To You second hand shop on Bolton Road, are urging more businesses to join them in the fight to get A-boards reinstated.

Phil is preparing to go to court over his refusal to remove his A-boards after being served with a final notice by the council to comply with the policy in 14 days or risk prosecution.

Phil said: "I have no choice. If the council takes me to court, it won't be for eight weeks. I am breaking the law so I will be fined. But if for eight weeks I don't put out my A-boards, I will lose my business because of loss of trade."

Phil, who has made one employee redundant after losing 80 per cent of trade at New to You and 50 per cent at Motorcycles Direct when he took his A-boards in for three weeks, added: "I am born and bred in Blackburn but can't wait to get out now.

"The council has turned Blackburn into a ghost town. This is the final nail in the coffin. Businesses cannot survive without advertising their goods.

"They are blaming us for blocking pavement even though down the road the council has erected a bus shelter, rubbish bin and sign altogether.

"I have been displaying motorbikes outside all these years without complaints. The blind people actually say they use the A-boards as points of references."

Any business people wanting to get involved with the petition should call Mike on 01254 264380 or Phil on 01254 673603

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