TWO of Blackburn’s most iconic heritage buildings will be in the spotlight with a dramatic display of colour and light for the town’s Christmas extravaganza.

The Victoria Building at Blackburn College and Holy Trinity Church will come to life with a multi-colour flood light effect as part of the annual Festival of Light celebrations, which aims to illuminate Blackburn for the festive season.

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Cllr Phil Riley, executive member for regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “We’ve got some beautiful buildings in our town centre and I don’t think they’re as appreciated as they should be.

“Hopefully this fantastic event will help residents and visitors alike see our town centre in a whole new light.”

A special light projection will be beamed onto the old technical college building, also known as the Victoria building, on Thursday, December 10, between 4.30pm and 7.30pm.

There will also be a firework display at Blackburn Cathedral from 6pm, a flame and fire show with illuminated performers at Town Hall Square from 5pm onwards and a lantern parade leaving from Blackburn College at 5pm.

This year’s festival also sees the lighting up of the iconic Holy Trinity Church for a spectacular grand finale event on Saturday, December 12, from 5pm.

Blackburn People’s Choir will be performing a selection of Christmas carols from 6pm at the former Anglican parish church with warm refreshments being served before and after the singing.

The Christmas extravaganza is supported by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and the Blackburn Business Improvement District.

Manager of the Blackburn BID, Harriet Roberts, said: “The Victoria Building and Holy Trinity Church are both iconic heritage buildings and they will become even more prominent to residents when lit up.

“We hope that the newly introduced light displays give onlookers a real sense of pride in the buildings around them. The displays are also part of the BID’s plan to make the town centre more attractive for visitors at night.”

There will be Blackburn Festival of Light Lantern making workshops at The Bureau Centre for the Arts in Victoria Street, Blackburn, from 10am to 4pm on November 8 and November 15.

The courses are suitable for ages five to 95. It is not compulsory to come with a child, but children must be accompanied by and adult. Lanterns will be stored at The Bureau until the parade. Event organisers suggest a £1 donation.