THE chairman of the Friends of the Square Meadow has praised both Darwen Town Council and the borough for their help in bringing the open space back into use.

Harry Blackwell returned from holiday this week to find the field at the centre of a political row.

At last week’s full Blackburn with Darwen council forum, its Labour leader Kate Hollern and Sudell Liberal Democrat Paul Browne traded insults over who had done most to assist the friends in their work.Mr Blackwell said: “Throughout the campaign we received excellent support from Darwen Town Council, Coun Brown and his fellow Sudell councillor Roy Davies.

“When we had to apply to the borough council for help only it could give to return the meadow to recreational use, it was very positive in its response.

“The Friends of the Square Meadow are very grateful for the help from both Darwen Town Council and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.”