Last year Shirley Ballas from Strictly paid one of her regular trips to the resort to get the festivities started, but she was only the latest in a long line of famous figures to be honoured with the task. As we wait for 2022’s Switch On stars to be named, let’s remember those who got the Illuminations season off to a flying start.
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Pop star Robbie Williams switches on The Illuminations in 2010 Photo: JPI
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Dr Who star David Tennant was a popular choice in 2007 Photo: JPI
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The Top Gear team in 2008 Photo: JPI
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TV presenter and comedian Alan Carr flicks the switch in 2009 Photo: JPI
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The late Dame Barbara Windsor in 2016 Photo: JPI
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Film director Tim Burton in 2015 Photo: JPI