People heading to Pleasington Cemetery on Eid day are being warned to expect delays due to high numbers of visitors and due to a fire at the weekend.

A section of Preston Old Road was cordoned off on Saturday (April 6) when a fire broke out at Witton Business Park, opposite the entrance to the Witton Park Arena.

Preston Old Road was closed in both directions throughout the weekend as emergency teams tackled the blaze and attempted to make the area safe.

This week, the highways team reopened both lanes but there is still no right turn at Witton Park Arena.

Any driver wanting to head into Witton Park and the funfair is asked to turn around at Pleasington and head back into town.

This comes as on Wednesday hundreds of people are expected to head down to Pleasington cemetery to pay their respects to loved ones on Eid.

Many will set off following morning prayers, so traffic is expected to build from 6am. 

Prayer times have been staggered throughout the morning at mosques to try and manage the situation, while traffic marshals and volunteers will also assist drivers as they arrive in Pleasington.

An update from Blackburn with Darwen Council said: “Two lanes are now open on Preston Old Road near the main entrance to Witton Park following the fire at Witton Business Park at the weekend.

“Delays are still likely on this route so drivers are advised to take alternative routes where possible. 

“If you are visiting Witton Park or the funfair, please plan your route accordingly or use the Tower Road entrance or the entrance off Buncer Lane.

“Witton Park Arena is open as usual - however, those travelling from Blackburn are unable to turn right into the car park.

"You will need to go up to Tower Road, turn around and come back to turn left into the park.”

The initial fire was at the back of the site running parallel to the River Darwen, at a factory specialising in recycled mattresses.

Fire and Rescue teams are still on site and are expected to remain there for the coming days.