BLACKBURN town centre will see an economic uplift as a result of the royal visit.

It is estimated that the local economy will be boosted by around £1 million thanks to thousands of extra visitors coming to the town on the day and then returning in the future.

The local business community in Blackburn has welcomed the special visit and worked alongside Blackburn with Darwen Council to make the most of the opportunities which it will provide.

David Smith, commercial manager of Blackburn with Darwen Markets, said: “We are expecting Blackburn Market to be exceptionally busy on the day the Queen is visiting, and we are gearing up for that.

“We are opening the doors from 7.30am and there will be events and activities for all the family taking place throughout the day.

“I think there are some people in the borough and from neighbouring towns who still haven’t visited our fantastic market since it moved from its former site and it would be wonderful to welcome them and be able to showcase what I believe to be one of the best markets in the region.”