BLACKBURN'S new bus station has been officially declared open.

Dozens of residents visited the 'state-of-the-art' facility over the course of Sunday, with many enjoying free refreshments.

Bus driver of 46 years, Frank Atkinson, who works for Transdev, cut the white ribbon soon after 9.30am to mark the occasion.

Mayor of Blackburn, Cllr Faryad Hussain, said: "The new station will ensure access to Blackburn and enable community users to come to the centre of the town, which has one of the most prestigious shopping centres in and around East Lancashire.

"Transport is important to any town but this is a state-of-the-art bus station so it will be an experience for people to come and use it."

Resident Bob Leslie, 47, said: "It is a modern up-to-date facility.

"There are information boards and it is right on the doorstep of all that Blackburn has to offer.

"Rather than just passing through, people might stop and have a look at what's going on at the market, for instance.

"I generally walk but my wife might start using the buses more than taxis now she can have a brew at the station."

The first buses arrived at the station from 8am with passengers able to take advantage of real-time bus information, information desk and refreshments.

The glass building also contains real-time departure boards, wifi, ticket machines and toilet facilities.

Refreshments including tea, coffee, orange juice and fresh Danish pastries, from Blakeys Express, were served to residents who visited the bus station throughout the day.

The first 100 passengers to use the new £4.7 million station were also rewarded with a £2 voucher to spend at Blackburn market.

Brian Bailey, director of planning and prosperity at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "It is all about improving the customer journey and service.

"This is a modern 21st century facility and it is about making people feel the same way about Blackburn."

A 58-year-old Blackburn resident said: "This is what we have needed but it has been a long time coming."

Cllr Hussain Akhtar said: “I am delighted to see this new station opened.

“The council has spent good money on it so we can get to and from places.

“We are hoping people will come from other towns to see what we have to offer and to enjoy Blackburn.”