RESIDENTS in Darwen are furious that signs for a new service station in the town tell motorists they are in Blackburn.

Campaigners against the Blackburn Services signs on the M65 want them removed.

Commuter Paul Clarke, 34, of Chancel Place, Darwen, described the mix up as an insult.

He said: "I was surprised when I saw people putting them up and I looked at it and it said Blackburn Services. How can it be Blackburn when it's in Darwen?

"It employs lots of local people and it's near Darwen Moorland County High School.

"I just don't understand. It's an insult."

Paul, a fund -raiser and member of Darwen Lions, added: "I've lived in Darwen for seven years.

"I see that anything that is any good goes to Blackburn while

Darwen is drained.

"This could have really put Darwen on the map but instead it's another nail in the coffin of our town."

Fifty local people are already employed by the new McDonald's restaurant at the services while more Darwen residents have been recruited to work in the Travelodge hotel, due to open this week.

Coun David Smith, of Sunnyhurst ward, encouraged disgruntled residents to write to the Highways Agency to complain.

He said: "It's wrong and it should be changed. It's as simple as that."

Coun Mary Leaver of Earcroft ward, added: "I agree that it's wrong and I think the Highways Agency didn't put any thought into it.

"There was nothing more behind it and I can't imagine it was done deliberately."

The Highways Agency conceded the new station, due to open in the next few weeks, was within the Darwen boundary.

But a spokesman said it was named Blackburn because people would recognise the area.

"Blackburn is a primary destination.

"It was felt appropriate to name the station after a place people would recognise.

"We appreciate it's actually in Darwen but it simply comes down to the fact that we want drivers to make their way safely, without confusion, making sure they know where they are."