BUSINESS leaders and financial experts are predicting a Christmas bonanza for Blackburn and the region following years of economic gloom.

According to experts, the recent revamp of the town's shopping centre and a rise in consumer confidence is helping to spark off a mini-boom in the run-up to the festive season.

A recent report from a leading finance company has revealed that the North West is one the most buoyant areas in the country.

And Blackburn's Chamber of Trade believe the multi-million pound refurbishment of Blackburn's shopping complex will also boost business in the town.

A spectacular festival and a week of special events is planned this week to mark the relaunch of the town centre.

Rita Wakeley, the co-ordinator of Blackburn's Chamber of Trade, said: "Traders in the town seem to be very optimistic about this Christmas. "Members ranging from the national chain stores right through to the one-man businesses are all saying that things seem to looking up.

"Compared to the doom and gloom we have had over recent years people do seem to be a lot more optimistic and confident."

She added: "The re-launch of the town certainly seems to have helped and Blackburn now appears to be attracting shoppers from other towns.

"Shoppers also appear to be a lot more confident about spending their money. Christmas goods which are already on the shelves are disappearing fast."

Dun and Bradstreet, an international business advice company, has released a survey which is predicting steady economic growth for the North West.

A spokesman for the company said: "The North West is one of the most buoyant in areas of the country with 72 per cent of firms expecting to increase their sales and 69 per cent of firms an increase in profits."

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