And judging by the sheer look of excitement on their faces (except The Stig) it was clear that performing the honours meant so much to them. Whether they were remembering the times when they came to Blackpool as kids to see the lights or they were just taking in the moment, no matter how famous they were, they were beaming as they pulled the switch. Who wouldn’t want to switch on the lights? What an amazing, truly British honour it is.
These photos cast back to the era and there are a few crowd shots too.
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2. Switch-ons
In 2005 head of Illuminations Richard Ryan helped Chris Evans switch on the Lights Photo: Bill Johnson
3. Switch-ons
Ronan Keating, helped by Kirsty Howard, switched on the lights in 2002 Photo: Rob Lock
5. Switch-ons
The Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On was performed by David Tennant in 2007 Photo: Mark Pearson
6. Switch-ons
A packed Talbot Square for the 1999 Illuminations switch on, which was performed by Gary Barlow Photo: Rob Lock