A CAMPAIGN has been launched to put Darwen on the map and scrap a Blackburn Services sign erected on the M65.

Councillors and residents are 'shocked' and 'disgusted' by the motorway sign after it was confirmed that the site of the new development is actually in Darwen.

Highways Agency officials said that the decision to name the services after Blackburn was taken because the town was a "primary destination."

But protesters have cited a number of service stations that were not named after their nearest city.

Tony Fillingham, 52, of Anchor Grove, listed 32 such stations, some of which are highlighted in the panel, below right.

He said: "All these service stations appear to work quite well without confusion and most drivers seem to know where they are, so perhaps there is some other reason not yet given for once more ignoring Darwen.

"Darwen is seen as being to insignificant and as per usual, it's all about Blackburn and nothing about Darwen."

Coun Paul Browne, of Sunnyhurst ward, slammed Highways Agency staff for putting up the Blackburn signs.

He said: "I'm absolutely shocked and I think it's totally out of order and disgusting.

"It's Blackburn all the way along and there's barely any sign of Darwen. I think we should all write to the agency and demand that it be changed."

Whitehall ward councillor Karimeh Foster agreed that people should write to the agency and Darwen MP Janet Anderson to change the sign.

She said: "I just can't understand it and I think the Highways Agency just don't know their geography.

"If they want people to come to Darwen we have to be on the map. Letters should be sent to our MP because, after all, it's her job to make sure the town is known."

Clive Naish, spokesperson for the Highways Agency, said: "Each decision is dealt with individually and on this occasion it was decided that the service station would be called Blackburn, a primary destination.

"We are always willing to take on board the comments and opinions of local people wherever possible."

To complain about the M65 sign, write to Roy Wood, The Highways Agency, Sunley Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M1 4BD.