MUSIC filled the air today as a band made comprising people from churches in East Lancashire played in King William Street, Blackburn.

The event was being held to publicise the eagerly-awaited visit of renowned international evangelist Luis Palau.

His visit is part of a 10-day mission to the North West of England, covering North East Lancashire, as well as Warrington, Southport, and Wigan. 25,000 people are expected to attend.

Organisers estimate that more than 7,500 Christians from across the region will be getting together to prepare venues and publicise events for what they claim will be the biggest evangelistic event in the county for many years.

More than 200 churches from every major town and denomination will be represented in the North West, including Church of England, Methodist, Baptist, Salvation Army, United Reformed, Pentecostal, free and non-denominational congregations, from Preston, Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley, Nelson, Colne and Barnoldswick to Clitheroe, Darwen, and Rossendale.

Luis Palau will be supported by evangelists Dan Owens and Phil Corner, as well as the Bishops of Blackburn and Lancaster, and celebrities including Fiona Castle, Cannon & Ball, and singers Paul Jones and Fiona Hendley.

The team will visit King George's Hall in Blackburn, from Wednesday to Saturday May 15. For details on the full programme of events across East Lancashire, contact Rev Richard Priestley on (01254) 399299/392732.

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