EAST Lancashire’s controversial panopticons are there to make a statement about the area and hopefully put us on the map.

The fact that they are now going to feature on Russian television is testament to the fact they are serving their purpose.

TV viewers from the former Soviet bloc will be able to enjoy a documentary about the grand pieces of artwork, which include Burnley’s Singing Ringing Tree and Colourfields in Blackburn.

Director of Mid Pennine Arts Nick Hunt deserves praise for helping to bring the sculptures to a global audience.

While many people from East Lancashire have enjoyed these pieces they have also had their opponents. But there are still many who are not aware they exist.

In Rossendale councillors have mounted a long-running campaign to have better signage for the Halo, a flying saucer scuplture placed on the hills above Haslingden.

The panopticons deserve to be mentioned alongside such other pieces of public art as the Angel of the North.

East Lancashire residents should make the effort to go and see them if they haven’t done so already. And join the growing worldwide band of admirers.