I WELCOME the remarks of Coun Alan Cottam, the executive member for regeneration when he says that "car owners have to be sent the message that they are welcome in Blackburn."

It was scandalous that when the Labour Party was in control, anyone who needed to drive into town on a brief errand was forced to pay a car parking fee.

When Coun Kay was the executive member for regeneration, all he did was fleece the motorist, which had the knock-on effect of deterring people from coming to Blackburn and spending their money here.

If, as Coun Cottam says, more free time can be found for cars to come into Blackburn, it will be a boost all who trade in the town.

COUNCILLOR D PEARSON, St Michael's Court, Blackburn.