Blackburn's £8m market opens in Mall shopping centre

Mr Haworth said he thought the market provided a showcase for local producers

A new £8m market has been officially opened in Blackburn with a day of special events.

The market has been refurbished as part of a multi-million pound regeneration scheme in the town.

The plaque was unveiled on the market, on the ground floor of the Mall shopping centre, by Michelin-starred TV chef Nigel Haworth.

Other events included 500 balloons being released, morris dancers and face-painting.

Mr Haworth, star of BBC TV show The Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen said: "I am delighted to be part of the official opening.

"The market offers a great platform for our regional producers, growers and suppliers.

"Pennine Lancashire offers some of the best produce in the North West and it is only right that Blackburn market continues to be the hub of the community," he added.

The market was moved from the old Penny Street market where it had been based since the 1960s.

The market, which has been partially open since June, has been attracting 13,000 visitors a day, the council said.