Thousands expected for Blackburn soldiers parade

Sixteen town centre roads will be closed as 120 soldiers from 1st Battalion Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment parade from the cathedral to King George’s Hall.

Among the crowds will be several local schools who will break off from lessons to cheer the troops.

And civic dignitaries including acting mayor Karimeh Foster will be meeting the soldiers ahead of a formal reception after a memorial service at the cathedral.

One of the council officials working to make sure that the town looks its best is David Baldwin, who co-ordinates the council’s graffiti team.

Mr Baldwin’s three sons are all in the armed forces, including eldest son Phillip, who is currently based in Cyprus with the 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster's Regiment.

He said: “It's not about the politics of the war or glorifying war, in my eyes. Its about taking that opportunity to thank these men for being away from their families and loved ones in a very hostile environment surrounded by all manner of people who are either glad to see them or want to do them harm.

“It's quite different from the safe environment that we all live in and that our children are growing up in."

Blackburn with Darwen Council Chief Executive Graham Burgess said: "This is our local regiment and we want to do our best for them on a special day. We are honoured that they have chosen Blackburn for this service and we are delighted to be working with them."

Deputy mayor Coun Foster will take a salute from the troops outside the Town Hall in Blackburn before hosting a reception for the regiment. She will be joined by other mayors from across Lancashire.

The following town centre roads will be closed closures: Blakey Moor, Corporation Street, Darwen Street, Exchange Street, Fleming Square, King Street, King William Street, Lord Street, Mincing Lane, Museum Street, New Market Street, Northgate, Richmond Terrace, St Peter Street, Town Hall Street and Victoria Street.