The Dean of Blackburn is the head (primus inter pares – first among equals) and chair of the chapter of canons, which is the ruling body of Blackburn Cathedral. The dean and chapter are based at the Cathedral Church of Blackburn St Mary the Virgin with St Paul in Blackburn. The post was designated as provost before September 2000, which was then the equivalent of dean at most English Cathedrals. The cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Blackburn and seat of the Bishop of Blackburn.