FEW things have captured the imagination of people in Blackburn in recent years more than the growth of the EG Group.

For many, the last time something as significant as the takeover of the iconic British brand Asda by the Issa brothers happened was in the early nineties when a certain Jack Walker decided to invest in his beloved Blackburn Rovers.

After an uncertain start, there has undoubtedly been a major commitment from the Venkys family which has helped Rovers avoid the financial instability other clubs have faced. The club has also, in recent years, helped to put a focus back into the community and the fans it serves.

Over the past two decades the town, as we all know, has had its ups and downs. But this latest news is of significance for a number of reasons.  Firstly, the EG Group could well have invested their money elsewhere over the past decade but they chose not to and made a commitment to put their money into the home town.

As well as a number of investments in the area their most noteworthy has been the new £35m offices on Haslingden Road, which is the largest commercial project of its kind in the region.

Secondly, it shows that - and I do not mean any disrespect - towns such as Blackburn can still make a significant impact on the wider business world.

I would think many smaller towns, like ours, would welcome such investment.

EG Group is not alone and a number of Blackburn-based businesses are continuing to punch way above their weight, having a major impact on industries across the world.

Thirdly, at times Muslims in the borough have been at the wrong end of ill-conceived and outdated attitudes.

This ‘blame culture’ has focused particularly on Muslims and inner-city communities.

What businesses like the EG Group have helped to do is make some people think twice before they start pointing fingers at those from other religions.

The simple fact is it should not matter at all what religion they are, or what cultural background one is.

The town is made up of myriad people and we are all essentially from the same borough and want the best for it.

Finally, there is inspiration for others in the area when businesses, big or small, are able to have an impact outside of the UK.

Blackburn and Darwen hosts a number of innovative companies and organisations and it is important we continue to applaud their efforts even during what will be a testing time for everyone.