BLACKBURN Cathedral staff are reeling from the shock news their bid for £4.5 million of Millenium Commission cash has been thrown out.

The Millenium Commission confirmed the Blackburn landmark's ambitious redevelopment plans had not been included in the next stage of the selection process.

It is just five weeks since the Cathedral unveiled its exciting plans to attract funding from the Commission.

Cathedral Provost, the Very Rev. David Frayne, said: "We're very disappointed the Millenium Commision has not listed its proposals for further consideration. We're seeking an urgent explanation since we had every confidence all the conditions had been fulfilled.

"We continue to believe our plans can bring enormous benefits to the town and to people from the Borough, County and Diocese who come to Blackburn."

Experts predicted the Millenium cash would trigger a further £8 million pounds of development funds from the private sector and the Cathedral are keen to maintain links with Blackburn Council and the companies who supported the bid.

The news is also a set-back for Blackburn Civic Society who had hoped the bid would secure the future of the Church Street pavilions.

Spokesman, Richard Prest, said: "It is disappointing news and a set back for us. But there are other avenues for us to persue to secure the future of the pavilions and I am sure the Cathedral will be looking to obtain funding from other means."

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