LANCASHIRE’S international opera superstar Alfie Boe has agreed to be the patron of Blackburn with Darwen’s Music Education Hub.

The Fleetwood-born tenor will represent the Duke Street-based complex to raise its profile and will visit the borough to work with talented young people.

MORE TOP STORIES:

He said: “I’m thrilled to be Patron and the Music Champion of Blackburn with Darwen Music Education Hub, its a fantastic organisation and I’m looking forward to working with them.”

The appointment of 41-year-old tenor was revealed in a report to Blackburn with Darwen’s full Council Forum tomorrow by borough education boss Dave Harling.

He tells fellow councillors: “The Music Education Hub, of which the Music Service is the lead organisation, is delighted that Alfie Boe, International opera star, will be Hub Patron and Music Champion for the next two years.

“Alfie has toured with many of the world’s top opera companies and won many accolades including the Tony theatre award.

“As well as being a role model, Mr Boe will speak on behalf of the hub on music education issues to strengthen the profile of the hub.”

Mr Boe was invited to take the two-year appointment by borough director of music education and hub boss Sean Ashmore.

He said: “We are taking a group of children to meet him at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in June and then he is coming to the hub in July .

“Alfie is an inspiring figure who will visit from time to time.”

The hub, set up in 2012, runs a variety of events promoting, teaching and encouraging music.

It runs regular Music Factory events at Our Lady and St John High School in Blackburn.

Former car mechanic Mr Boe has played Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, appeared on Broadway and in the West End.