A HOSPICE has launched a charity photo book.

East Lancashire Hospice launched The Blackburn We Knew And Loved Book on Sunday.

The book contains reproductions of rare photographs depicting Blackburn in its glory days, harking back to a time when the open market bustled, the famous clock tower chimed and the Easter Fair was a fun-filled family day out.

The collection showcases a time when Thwaites’ Victorian Arcade stood proud in the town centre and local businesses ruled the high street.

The books also features captions written by locals historical artist John Chapman and a forward written by former MP for Blackburn Jack Straw.

Only 2,000 copies of the hard back book have been produced and more than hald have been sold.

All proceeds from the sales will be donated to East Lancashire Hospice for patient care.

For more information visit eastlancshospice.org.uk