LANCASHIRE’S councils will not stand in the way of an Olympic torch parade if organisers decide to visit the county.

Earlier this week, Somerset County Council turned down a bid for the iconic display, arguing the cost of organising the event would be too dear.

It is thought that factors such as road closures and policing could cost up to £315,000 – or half the cost of running a primary school for a year.

But Lancashire County Council and unitary authority Blackburn with Darwen, say that they would be willing to host such an event before the games start in London in 2012.

Steve Rigby, director of culture, leisure and sport for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “There have only been tentative discussions with the 2012 team regarding the Olympic torch visiting Lancashire and, as yet, no plans for the route have been made.

“We would be willing to have the torch visit provided the organisational and security costs were not excessive.”

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council refused to define the term “excessive”.

Ged Fitzgerald, chief executive of Lancashire County Council, said: “Being part of the route for the Olympic torch relay is a chance to showcase Lancashire to the world and ensure everyone in the county gets the chance to benefit from Britain hosting the games.

“Local authorities and their partners across the country have been asked by the Olympic organising committee to put forward a route for the torch relay, and in Lancashire we’re working on one which will maximise participation and display the best the county has to offer.

“Because this work is still in the early stages we have not yet confirmed details of the route and the organisation needed to support it, but we’re keen to make the most of potential benefits to the economy and to encourage wider participation in sport.”

The 2012 Lancashire Group includes the NW Regional Coordinator for the 2012 Games, Lancashire and Blackpool Tourist Board, Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Education Business Partnership and representatives from the local NHS and School Sports Partnerships.

The relay ends on the day of the opening ceremony in the Olympic stadium.

The final carrier is often kept secret until the last moment.