One of the many hillside streets in Blackburn where the ever changing panoramic views of the town can be seen 

THE history of Blackburn stretches back to the time of the Romans - when the area lay on the ancient military way leading from Mancunium (Manchester) to Bremetennacum (Ribchester).

Its establishment as a textile centre goes back to the 1200s, when prosperity was based on wool but by the middle of the 17th century, cotton became the dominant industry.

Today, Blackburn has a diverse manufacturing base - one of the country's biggest CD makers is based in the town - and is a major brewing centre.

But the town is perhaps better known as the home of Premiership football team Blackburn Rovers - one of the founder members of the football league in 1888. Jack Straw is a season ticket holder and regularly attends, with his family, weekend matches.

Among its famous past and present residents are contralto singer, Kathleen Ferrier, Samuel Crompton, inventor of the spinning mule, snooker player Denis Taylor, world champion motorcyclist Carl Fogarty and Baroness Barbara Castle.

Blackburn's famous football club includes amongst its' many season ticket holders, 

Jack Straw , our MP