THE Dean of Blackburn Cathedral has said he is ‘absolutely thrilled’ at the prospect of a German Christmas Market in the shadow of the historic building.

The Very Rev Peter Howell-Jones was responding to the news of the major new festive season attraction exclusively revealed by the Lancashire Telegraph on Thursday.

He promised the cathedral and its clergy would play a full part in making sure the event, with 26 special wooden chalets imported from the German City of Flensburg which is famous for its annual Christmas Market, was a success.

The Dean said: “I and my clergy colleagues are absolutely thrilled that this Christmas will see an authentic German Market in our Cathedral Square.

“We hope to be fully involved in its success.

“The market will further ensure that the cathedral is at the heart of Christmas in Blackburn.”

The event will run from Thursday, November 29, to Sunday, December 23, in Cathedral Square.

Its opening will coincide with the launch of the town centre’s late-night Christmas shopping.

Blackburn’s Christmas Lights will be switched on on Saturday, November 24.

The traditional Bavarian-style market will take place under one of the town’s three 36ft Christmas trees.

The festively-dressed chalets of varying sizes will be grouped around a central hexagonal Schwenker Grill and bar area.

The market will be managed on by Retail Alternatives with overnight security and daytime events.

Cllr Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s regeneration boss, said: “This is a really exciting event for the borough. German-style Christmas Markets have become a fantastic addition to many towns and cities.”

He added: “This is set to be a great addition to Blackburn town centre this Christmas and will give shoppers from all over something a little bit different.”