New market is officially open

Thousands of people descended on the long-awaited official opening of Blackburn’s new market.

The market was officially opened on Saturday, July 9 by the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Karimeh Foster, MP Jack Straw and Councillor Dave Harling.

The new market plaque was unveiled by celebrity chef Nigel Haworth.

Following the opening speeches, Michelin star chef Nigel, who is a regular on BBC’s Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen, treated market shoppers to an hour-long cooking demonstration.

Later, 500 balloons were released into the sky on Church Street to help mark the launch of the £8million modern market.

As well as the usual wide variety of local produce that the market offers, there were also free food samples, Morris dancers and children were kept entertained with free face painting, sweets and a professional entertainer.

See more pictures of the official market opening >>>