BLACKBURN Co-operative Society's third supermarket opened to the public over 55 years ago.

It took three months to build the supermarket on Audley Lane.

More than 100 housewives from the area queued in brilliant sunshine for the opening by the society's president, Mr J. Farish on July 6, 1961.

Mr Farish told the shoppers and guests that the first brick for the new supermarket was laid in April.

The whole of the work had been carried out by the society's own staff.

Commenting at the time, Mr Farish said: "It needs little imagination to realise that the new premises are far superior to the old.

"It is far bigger and better, and the service you will have at your disposal will be more appealing."

At the opening of Blackburn's new supermarket was Mr B.T. Parry, the general manager and Mr J. Farish, president, who officially opened the market.

Features of the store were its serve-yourself displays and colourfully modern decor.

Mr Farish added: "Housewives are busy people in these days and everyone is looking for time-saving methods.

"In this type of shop we have tried to make everything time saving for the housewife with the added attraction of a pleasant atmosphere."