PRINCE Edward opened Blackburn Youth Zone today proclaiming it was an historic day which the town ‘would never forget’.

The £5million centre is based in Jubilee Street, near Blackburn railway station.

It was officially opened with a huge royal seal of approval.

Around 300 business and community leaders were taken on tours of the building, which includes an eye-catching roof-top football pitch, sports hall, gym and dance studio.

There will now be a series of ‘soft openings’ where youngsters will be bussed in from one school at a time to try the centre out ahead of a full opening to the public in a few months’ time.

Peter Little, chief executive, said: “It’s been a long journey from the starting line, but the building is now finished.

“We want to bring the people of Blackburn together to support our youngsters.”