SPECIAL arrangements have been made as up to 15,000 people are expected to come to Blackburn to catch a glimpse of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

They are visiting Blackburn and Darwen on their last official public appearance before their wedding on April 29.

But organisers say there will be limited opportunity to see the couple on their Darwen visit and are urging well-wishers to go to Witton Park.

The first engagement will be at the Darwen Aldridge Community Academy but the public will only be able to see the couple briefly as they arrive.

Prince William will launch the SkillForce Prince’s Award at DACA, aimed at recognising young people’s contribution to their community.

He will also be given a tour of entrepreneurial schemes at the academy before unveiling a commemorative plaque.

Visitors should head to the second stop, at Witton Park in Blackburn, for the best chance to see William and Kate.

The couple will see sporting activities in the park before Prince William puts his signature to the Deed of Dedication to protect the area for the future in his role as patron of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge.

The couple will also see young people participating in disabled cycling activities before a private reception in the sports pavilion.

Visitors will be allowed entry to the park from 11am.

The area surrounding Witton Park will be coned off, including the main car park, so motorists are advised not to drive.

There will be limited parking at Witton Park for blue badge holders which will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

A park and ride scheme is operating from Ewood where a number of car parks will be available on the day.

Parking will cost £5, including tickets for the shuttle bus which is running regularly to Witton Park from 10.30am.

There will also be free car parking at Byrom Street and Canterbury Street in Blackburn town centre with the 124 and 152 services operating from the town centre.

The train stations at Mill Hill and Cherry Tree are also within walking distance.

“People can either walk from the town centre or Ewood or use the park and ride scheme which will have buses running regularly to Witton Park throughout the day.”

Hardman Way, Sudell Road to Kay Street, Nancy Street, Bridge Street, Bank Street, Church Bank Street and part of Redearth Road will be closed during the Darwen Academy visit.

Access to Sainsburys will be via Cochrane Street and a number of diversions will be in place along Sudellside Street and Kay Street.

The number 2 service may also be affected.