FINAL preparations are underway to welcome the Olympic torch to East Lancashire.

Lancashire County Council has issued official notices of temporary road closures that will be in place at the torch relay makes its way across the county.

And part of the motorway slip road at junction 10 of the M65 westbound will be closed as well as more than 20 A roads in East Lancashire alone.

Transport bosses have warned motorists that the rolling road closures will cause delays and disruptions.

The Olympic torch bearing relay starts in Chorley on June 1.

On June 23 the torch will arrive in Blackburn at 9.12am and will pass through Accrington from 10.19am.

It will then set off in Burnley at 11.05am followed by Crawshawbooth at 12:58pm, Reedsholme at 1.04pm and Rawtenstall at 1.18pm.

The torch will then go on to Rochdale.

Lancashire County CounTim Ashton, cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said: "We advise people to allow more travel time for this very special occasion, which will be seen around the world and is likely to attract many spectators.

"With a little planning ahead, people can make alternative arrangements and reduce the disruption to their travel arrangements.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime event that will remembered fondly for many years to come, so I am sure people will be sympathetic to any delays.

"Even if you're not planning to watch it, please be aware of the times when the Torch Relay will visit, so you don't get caught up in any traffic."

To reduce the chance of delays or more information about the Torch Relay route, and timings visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/2012.