Here is our tribute to 17 of the more well-known names linked to the area. This is not a definitive list – just a flavour of what we have had to offer the worlds of music, theatre, broadcasting, sport and beyond.
13. Robert James Smith
Singer, songwriter and Cure front man Robert James Smith was born in Blackpool, when he was three years old, his family moved to Horley, Surrey.
14. Andy Summers
Andrew James Somers, known professionally as Andy Summers. The guitarist who was a member of the rock band the Police was born in Poulton-le-Fylde.
15. David Thewlis
David Wheeler known as David Thewlis, has starred in an array of films, including, Wonder Woman, Dragonheart, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and The Theory of Everything. David, who was born in Blackpool in 1963, is probably best known for his role as Remus Lupin in the Harry Potter saga.
16. Ricky Tomlinson
Jim Royle was born in Liverpool...right? My a***! Eric "Ricky" Tomlinson who is best known for his roles as Bobby Grant in Brookside and Jim Royle in The Royle Family was born in Bispham.
17. Dan Whiston
Blackpool lad and professional skater Dan Whiston won the first series of Dancing on Ice with actress Gaynor Faye and appeared in a further 9 seasons. Dan became associate creative director of the show in 2019.