Queen’s Birthday celebrations

An event to celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday at Blackburn Train Station was a huge success.

More than 300 people took part in the day, many receiving information from stalls at the event, advice and goodies.

The event was attended by Blackburn’s Mayor, Cllr Phil Riley and supported local walking and cycling groups.

Blackburn People’s Choir entertained the crowds with special performances throughout the morning.

There were a number of different walking and cycling events on the day, many led by volunteers, which made it extra special with groups culminating their activities for the celebrations at Blackburn Train Station with an hour-long performance, directed by assistant conductor Daniel Adams from Blackburn People’s Choir.

Blackburn People’s Choir Director Jeff Borradaile said:

We were delighted to be asked to be part of the event. The choir are well-known in the area as a thriving community choir.

We have started three new groups this year for women’s voices, male voice, and a children’s choir Vocalise for young singers aged seven and above. If anybody is interested in joining us please come along and see what we do.

The choir recently spent an exciting weekend in Rotterdam, where they sang on the Erasmus bridge to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Social media channel Twitter was alive with photos and live tweets from the day.

This was part of a national event organised in conjunction with the Council, supported by the East Lancashire and Clitheroe line Community Rail Partnership.

Councillor Phil Riley Executive Member for Regeneration said:

“This event was a really good way to help bring the community together whilst showing that you can easily travel around using public transport, walking or cycling.

“As well as commemorating the Queen’s 90th birthday, we also celebrated the 200 year anniversary of the completion of the Leeds to Liverpool canal – interestingly, the final section to be completed was the one around Blackburn.”

James Syson Chairman of the East Lancashire and Clitheroe line Community Rail Partnerships said:

“This event was a huge success and was a fantastic way for people to socialise but at the same time show that traveling by train is a fast, affordable and reliable.”

Craig Harrop, Client and Stakeholder Manager for Northern added:

“We were delighted to be able to support our local stations in Lancashire during this national celebration.”

To see pictures from the day please click here.

For more information about Blackburn People’s Choir, upcoming events or to become a member please visit: www.blackburnpeopleschoir.org