HUNDREDS of late night shoppers in Blackburn town centre stopped to enjoy a lantern parade to the Cathedral ahead of the Lancashire Telegraph Carol Service last night.

The procession through the town centre, part of the Festival of Light, began in King William Street at around 6pm.

Samba band Blowjangles waved giant glow sticks, and with costumes adorned with colourful Christmas lights, they transformed a cold, wet night in East Lancashire into a scene that would not have been out of place in New Orleans.

The band, followed by hundreds of people holding lanterns aloft, made their way to Blackburn Cathedral grounds for the annual fireworks spectacular.

Blowjangles member, Lawrence Baxter, said: “It was a good turnout, and better than we thought. It was good to see so many people come out.

“When you see people having fun, it makes it better for you too.”

Before and during the service, seasonal music was played by the Salvation Army Band, while the cathedral choristers, led by director of music Samuel Hudson, sang popular carols.

Great Harwood resident Sally Hope said the event had enticed her to Blackburn town centre for the first time in two years.

She watched her 10-year-old daughter Isobel sing in the choir, as did her husband Mark and elder daughter Amelia, 12.

Canon Ian Stockton said: “This event is extremely well attended. Throngs of people come in to watch the fireworks whatever the weather, and after they surge forward, safely, towards the Cathedral as if they’re going to watch a cup final.

“It’s special because it’s in partnership with the Lancashire Telegraph, and with Blackburn with Darwen Council.

“It’s very popular and it’s a light-hearted carol service to show that church is fun.”