I WAS concerned to see such an incredibly poor turnout at the Blackburn town centre Sport Relief Mile event on Sunday, March 16.

Officials at the event informed me that only around 100 people had taken part in the one mile run. As I arrived to take part in the six-mile run that was due to start at 11am, I was informed that apart from one man who had already started I would be the only person to start at 11am.

It was more than a little farcical to be set off by the Mayor armed with a start gun as I set off on my 12 laps of a half-mile route around the town centre.

With security guards, policing, St John's Ambulance in place, several portable toilets, not to mention all the voluntary marshals who gave their valuable time in good faith, I would like to know exactly how much this event cost to stage.

When organising an event of this nature surely publicity should be of paramount importance to ensure a maximum turnout.

I personally didn't see any advertising in or around the town centre in the weeks leading up to the event.

An event like this is a great way to encourage children to be actively involved in sport and support good causes, so surely all local schools and leisure centres should have been informed.

Blackburn should have been proud to host the Sport Relief Mile and far more effort should have been made to make it a success.

SANDRA SNAPE, Mellor Brook.