JUST over 100 years ago, Lancashire’s cotton industry reached its exporting peak, reportedly producing seven billion square yards of cloth in 1913.

Of course, the county has a proud history of textile manufacturing but from then on a long downturn set in - the result of rising foreign competition, tariffs and Britain’s high cost base.

But after decades of decline Lancashire’s once-dominant textile industry is on the brink of a revival and proving it can successfully compete with overseas suppliers, thanks to some wonderful vision.

With the backing of Great British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant, East Lancashire can become the centre of clothing manufacturing again.

Already, 30 jobs have been created and there are plans for lots more, plus teaching the sewing experts of the future.

It all adds up to a massive vote of confidence in Blackburn, as the town’s leaders have pointed out, but there can be positive knock-on effects for the whole county.

The Blackburn is Open tagline, plus the ongoing investment, is certainly giving ‘outsiders’ the impression that the town means business.

Mr Grant has an impressive pedigree and wants skilled workers to help him make his mark in East Lancashire.