CAMPAIGNERS have vowed to stop the sale of Blackburn Transport because they fear their bus service will be lost.

And residents of Cranshaw Drive, Pleckgate, said they are even prepared to stand on street corners to warn passengers of "their fate".

Those against the sale of the Blackburn with Darwen Council-owned company claim only one of its routes is profitable -- and that a private operator would not want to keep running the others.

And campaigners fear many people likely to be affected still do not know about the plans.

The group, made up of pensioner Dylis Taylor and her neighbours, will now post leaflets in the area to raise awareness of their fight to block the sale.

And they will also call on Blackburn MP Jack Straw for help at his next surgery in Bangor Street Community Centre today.

Mrs Taylor, 65, a retired supply teacher, said: "There are not many people who have heard about what is happening. It really will affect everyone.

We need this service or we won't be able to get around. I will argue that my council tax should be cut, with part of it going to transport I won't be using.

"The council have a duty for the people and they have let us down. Everyone needs to stand up and make themselves heard."

But Coun Andy Kay, the authority's executive member for regeneration, today assured residents: "No decision to sell off Blackburn Transport has been made. The council is exploring the possibility of a partnership to help improve the service and ensure its future."

The council announced the potential sale after staff read rumours in a trade magazine in September. But council reports obtained by the Evening Telegraph showed attempts to attract bids for a share of the 120-year-old firm met a luke warm response.

Blackburn Transport staff have launched a leaflet campaign and the Transport and General Workers' Union has set up a website, www.dontsellbbt.co.uk