THOUSANDS of children from schools across Blackburn with Darwen have been celebrating the Olympics as part of a festival of dance.

Pupils from 52 schools and sixth form colleges throughout the borough performed to sell-out crowds over two nights at King George’s Hall, in Alma Street.

This was the seventh annual themed dance spectacular, which is supported by Blackburn with Darwen Council, Twin Valley Homes and the School Development Service.

Coun Pat McFall, member for children’s services at the council, said the festival was a great way to bring all of the borough’s diverse cultures together.

She said: “The festival allows us to show off the talent of our children and we are very proud of it.

“We want to continue to support this event even though we are in the midst of financial difficulties.

“It brings all our communities together, you just have to look around to see.”