It is expected the star name will be announced within the next two weeks, while tourism bosses today revealed they are reviving the once-popular Illuminations open day to increase local interest in the Lights.

Blackpool tourism director Jane Seddon confirmed there was verbal agreement over a switch-on personality, but insisted no announcement would be made about the Lights launch until this was put into writing.

She did, however, reveal that the star – or stars – would not be among the yet-to-be-named performers of the concert that will be staged by BBC Radio 2 behind the Golden Mile on Friday, August 29.

Mrs Seddon said: "Following on from the huge publicity generated by Dr Who star David Tennant last year we are again looking at people who could ensure mass appeal.

"As well as being involved with Radio 2 for the concert we are negotiating a tie in with national TV for another element.

"The Illuminations will not be switched on by one of the performers but that is all I can reveal at the moment."

The early announcement of the Switch On star is seen as essential after the widespread criticism of two years ago when Dale Winton was not unveiled until 48 hours before the event.

Meanwhile, Blackpool Council is bringing back its popular Illuminations open day – last staged in 2003 – after a number of health and safety issues were resolved.

The doors will be thrown open at the Rigby Road depot to reveal a grotto of halls, corridors, storage areas and a network of workshops where the world famous Illuminations are created.

The open day on Thursday July 10, 2008, will also be the last chance for visitors to see the depot before the Illuminations department moves to new premises off Squires Gate Lane in 2009.

The artists, electricians, joiners, mechanics, painters, engineers and hi-tech boffins, who work all year round to produce the electrifying show, will swap roles for the day and become tour guides for the thousands of visitors who are expected through the gates.

Coun Maxine Callow, portfolio holder for regeneration and tourism, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes.

"Not only will they be able to see how the installations are made, but they'll also see some of the famous lights that have graced the Promenade in recent years.

The illuminations will shine until November 2.