ROY Davies (Letters, January 22) is incorrect when he states that 'Blackburn took over Darwen.'

The amalgamation of the two boroughs occurred as a result of the 1972 Local Government Act under the government of Ted Heath.

He must also walk around blindfolded if he thinks that regeneration is only in Blackburn.

Recently, we have seen:

The building of a new school at Holy Trinity primary (£1.5million).

New classrooms built at Avondale, St Peter's and Sudell primary schools.

£1.4million of capital improvements for Darwen's schools.

40 extra nursery places at Chapels and Turncroft nursery schools.

£2million spent on the Eccleshill link road development.

The new £2.6million 'Sure Start' scheme in Darwen.

The £450,000 redevelopment of Darwen Library Theatre.

Two new all-weather play areas in Darwen

Big improvements to Darwen Leisure Centre and Tower Room.

£500,000 improving Darwen Town Hall and the markets.

£100,000 to create junior soccer pitches at Blacksnape and improve the changing rooms.

CCTV in Darwen Town Centre.

Need I go on?

Of course, more improvements need to be made and no-one is complacent. However, Darwen has seen significant improvements and is not a bad town, despite the cynics like Mr Davies!

COUN DAVE SMITH (Sunnyhurst Ward).