Blackpool Illuminations to go dark

The lights will go out in Blackpool on Wednesday night as lockdown plunges the tourist destination’s famous Illuminations into darkness.

A joint statement from Blackpool Council and VisitBlackpool said it was “with regret” that the display would be suspended. However Blackpool Tower will remain lit.

The Illuminations had been switched on in early September by a group of “Corona Heroes”, recognising NHS staff and charity fundraisers. The season was already going to be extended, to January 3, and organisers hope they will be able to turn the lights back on when restrictions are eased.

Cllr Gillian Campbell, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for tourism and culture, said: “It is hugely disappointing to have to turn off the Illuminations but given the restrictions due to come in place on Thursday there is no real alternative.

“The primary purpose of the national lockdown is to get infection rates down and we cannot be seen to do anything that jeopardises that objective.”