People in Blackburn with Darwen die, on average, eight years earlier than people in other parts of the country.

More people die of cancer than is usual in England.

The death rate from stroke and heart disease is higher than the average in England.

A greater proportion of people have diabetes than the English average.

Over 250 people died last year as a direct result of smoking.

The average child in Blackburn with Darwen has twice as many rotten teeth as the average child in England as a whole.

24,000 people drink enough alcohol, to harm their health.

The borough’s population is the third worst in England and Wales for people not getting enough exercise.

Most people (4 out of 5) do not eat the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.

These are all statements made on the Re-Fresh website by the Blackburn with Darwen PCT in strategic partnership with the council.

After reading this I fully understand the decision to close Shadsworth leisure centre we are going to need more space for a cemetery.

Martin Berry, Penzance Street, Blackburn.