Trainer fans finally get their hands on rare Blackburn adidas shoes

For some the long wait was finally over as The Cotton Exchange opened its doors to let those who had been waiting eagerly to grab one of 160 pairs of the adidas SPEZIAL trainers, featuring the homeless charity Nightsafe's logo.

Some dedicated collectors had been camping outside the centre in Blackburn for three nights running to make sure they were the first inline.

The proceeds from the shoes will go towards the charity which helps vulnerable homeless people.

First through the door was Andy Burns, who was one of those who had waited since Tuesday night to get a pair.

On being the first person to get hold of a pair, the 54-year-old from Wythenshawe, Manchester said: "I'm very tired but I'm very happy.

"It's been worth it.

"It's a banging trainer, you wouldn't get so many people queuing up to get their hands on it if it wasn't good.

"I've had eight-and-a-half hours sleep in three days but it has been really worth it."

Shoe collector Sean Livesey, 48, from Feniscowles, Blackburn, said: "I'm relieved.

"It's not about being first but I'm pleased I can add this to my collection.

"It's an asset and it will be going in a secure place."

An art installation looking at t-shirts throughout the 20th century called Cult Culture Subversion was also on display in Blackburn Cathedral's crypt.

Sal Reyes, travelled more than 5260 miles from Los Angeles in order to grab a pair of the adidas shoes.

He said: "I've been a fan of the designer, Gary Aspden, for a while and his shoes are really good.

"I'm not what you would describe as a huge collector but my passion is growing.

"Blackburn has a great community and it's clear to see that with all these people here today.

"It has a great sense of culture and its clear to see the link from the town and the shoes."

Sal Reyes, from LA

An exhibition of more than 1,200 pairs of adidas trainers, showcasing the evolution of the brand's footwear was launched on Thursday night, as part of the first British Textile Biennial.

Jan Larkin, the chief executive of Nightsafe, said: "This whole experience has been absolutely amazing.

"What Gary has done is incredible from start to finish.

"The money he has raised here will make a massive difference to the 16 to 25 year olds we support on a regular basis.

"We have a lot of projects going on at the moment and the support from this event is going to directly affect them in such a positive way.

"I think the trainer looks brilliant too."

Mr Aspden's exhibition celebrates the training shoe's role in the cultural expression of 1980's young from the football terraces to the dancefloor in Blackburn and elsewhere.

The designer was grew up in Darwen and spent may of his formative years in Blackburn.

Mr Aspden said: "I'm elated to be honest.

"There's a real sense of community, so many people came from outside of Blackburn and they were made to feel welcome here.

"I strongly believe culture drives commerce.

"This will raise money but it will also raise awareness for Nightsafe and what they do.

"I think it is disgraceful how in 2019 young people are living on the streets in this country.

"The word Nightsafe is on a lot of people's lips now, they have seen the fantastic work they are doing with the BBC DIY SOS Big Build, which will be great, and I hope this will going to further emulate that."