Switch-On 2017: Blackpool's Issy Simpson drops a bombshell announcement in surprise appearance

The young magician, who came second in the TV talent show earlier this year, made an exclusive announcement, that she'll be heading out to Los Angeles in America next month for talks with film companies.

Keep up with our Illuminations Switch-On 2017 live blog here

Speaking to the Gazette backstage, she said: "In all the things I've done, this is a very close second to the Britain's Got Talent final and being on Lorraine.

"It was a bit scary being on stage live in front of so many people - but it's really cool to be a special guest at the Lights Switch-On."

Grandad and magical mentor Russ Stevens, himself a Blackpool celebrity from his time at the Pleasure Beach's Mystique shows, said they had meetings arranged with Warner Brothers and film companies, as well as being sue to appear on Ellen Degeneres's show, with Issy now signed to the same agent as Harry Potter acting star Daniel Radcliffe.

Mum Jessica said of the family's experiences this year: "It's all been a bit of a whirlwind.

"We have found a new kind of normal, with lots of selfies and autograpphs.

"It has been good fun and an adventure."