The resort's iconic Thunderbird 3 rocket, which has become a resort favourite since it touched down here in 2004, is being sold off.

The Illuminations department is selling the International Rescue spaceship – which was made as a prop for the big screen premiere of the cult science fiction series – together with a number of former Lights' favourites as part of a unique January sale.

While interest in the 60ft high rocket is expected to be "out of this world" also expect a stampede of buyers wanting to get their hands on one of the seven horses that used to light the Gynn Square roundabout carousel which can be snapped up for just £250 each.

Those with a more modest budget can net a Seahorse from the Coral Capers section of lights for £50 and even the pieman from the now defunct Hollands Pies section for a mouth-watering £75.

Keeping with the Thunderbird theme, Michael Wilcock, head of the Illuminations, said the sale is a FAB way of keeping the Illuminations modern and up to date.

He said: "The rocket is a special and unique piece. It's an original piece created for the Thunderbirds film.

"But we are in showbusiness and we need to move on. We don't want to see it scrapped. We hope it will go to a good home."

Mr Wilcock hopes to get a "substantial amount" for the 60ft, eight-ton rocket which stands proudly in Flagstaff Gardens, on South Promenade.

He added: "It's part of our business plan to be as self-sustainable as possible.

"These are features which have not been used for a number of years or no longer have a use. It means we can generate space and money to make new Illuminations."

But sci-fi fanatics are Calling International Rescue.

David Nightingale, owner of Thunderbooks, on Lytham Road, Blackpool, said he has known tourists from Japan to visit the resort to see the rocket.

He said: "It's a shame Blackpool is losing it. It's instantly recognisable. If they'd let me, I'd put it outside my shop on the pavement."

Catherine Simpson, manager at the Doctor Who store, on Victoria Street, Blackpool, said: "It will be missed, it's quite popular. I think they should put a Tardis there instead."

The sale is the first of its kind to be open for traders and members of the public.

Mr Wilcock added: "It's going to be a really interesting day. Some of the pieces have already been reserved."

Councillor Maxine Callow, cabinet member for regeneration and tourism said: "I'm obviously very sad to see these fabulous Illuminations go, but at the same time am very pleased that the public as well as the trade are being given the chance to own such an unusual piece of memorabilia."

Prices for the famous illuminations range from £50 to £350 and a selection of the lights on offer can be found at www.visitblackpool.com/stocksale.

- The sale will take place on Wednesday January 30, 10am to 4pm at the Illuminations depot on Rigby Road.