A PERMANENT tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, is to be constructed in Blackburn.

Special stained glass panels commemorating Diana's life are to be included in the lantern tower at Blackburn Cathedral which will be rebuilt next year following an £800,000 cash appeal.

The move follows requests from many local people who wanted to pay tribute to the Princess. More than 6,000 people visited the cathedral to sign the book of condolence and bring flowers during the week following Diana's death. The Provost of Blackburn, the Very Rev David Frayne, said: "The special panels will provide a permanent memorial in Lancashire's cathedral church to the Princess' life and work in the community.

"Obviously we do not wish to detract from the National Memorial Fund, but I very warmly welcome the suggestion that has been made by the public.

"In the week after the Princess' death Blackburn Cathedral became a significant focus for folk from all sections of the community."

Sir David Trippier, High Sheriff of Lancashire, said: "The magnificence of the new stained glass lit from within the octagonal Lantern Tower will radiate out across the community. The stained glass panels in memory of her will be a fitting tribute." Peter Greenwood, Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, said: "Given the depth of feeling generated a permanent reminder to Diana on a landmark lantern tower seems appropriate."

Around £550,000 has already been raised towards the cost of rebuilding the lantern tower, which will replace the existing 1960s structure which is suffering from decay.

The new tower will be built in natural stone and have 56 panels of traditional, handmade stained glass.

The panels, which will be 20 feet high by two feet wide, have been designed on the theme of the Spirit of God. Special attention has been paid to the effect on the glass of the changes in light during the day and throughout the year.

The public can make donations specifically for the Diana memorial. Contributions should be marked Blackburn Cathedral - Diana, Princess of Wales Stained Glass Memorial.

Donations will be accepted at any branch of the Marsden Building Society, any branch of Barclays Bank (quoting sort code 20-09-72 and account 30400394, and any post office (quoting account 305743287).

You can also hand in donations at our front counters in Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley and Darwen. More information is available from the Cathedral office on 01254 51491 or the appeal office on 01254 689689.

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