BLACKBURN Cathedral is one of seven landmark buildings across the region which will turn off its lights next week to support a call for more foster carers.

It will go dark after a concert on Friday, November 20 to raise cash for a campaign to find new foster families, launched by Wilpshire-based Child Action North West.

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The charity is highlighting the need for 1,200 extra foster care families.

Other iconic buildings supporting CANW’s “1,200 Lights” are the intu Trafford Centre, the Royal Liver Building on Merseyside, and Blackpool Tower, the Imperial War Museum at Salford Quays, Lancashire Country Cricket Club’s pavilion at Emirates Old Trafford and Everton Football Club.

The switch-off will coincide with the end of the Blackburn Cathedral concert, featuring opera singer Sean Ruane and school choirs from across East Lancashire, at 8.30pm.

The Dean of Blackburn Christopher Armstrong said: “The cathedral is delighted to be hosting the fundraising concert and to be supporting this important campaign by symbolically turning off our lights .”

CNAW chief executive Sue Cotton said: “It’s shocking that the North West needs more foster carers than anywhere else in the country.

“In the run-up to Christmas we all look forward to the light, life and love we share with family and friends.

“By turning off the floodlights and exterior lights on some of our best loved buildings we hope to make people think about the youngsters who don’t have the bright, welcoming light of family in their lives, and to encourage them to consider fostering.”

Tickets cost £5 and £2.50 for concessions.