Boyband Westlife switched on Blackpool Millennium Illuminations in Talbot Square, 2000

Boyband Westlife switched on Blackpool Millennium Illuminations in Talbot Square, 2000

19 scenes of excited celebrities you will remember from the 90s and 00s who switched on Blackpool Illuminations

They were top of their game when they headed to Blackpool to switch on the resort’s famous Illuminations.

By Claire Lark

Published 29th Aug 2022, 15:45 BST

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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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Crowds go wild as Westlife come on to the stage in 2000.

1. Switch-ons

Crowds go wild as Westlife come on to the stage in 2000. Photo: DAWN CASTLE

In 2005 head of Illuminations Richard Ryan helped Chris Evans switch on the Lights

2. Switch-ons

In 2005 head of Illuminations Richard Ryan helped Chris Evans switch on the Lights Photo: Bill Johnson

Ronan Keating, helped by Kirsty Howard, switched on the lights in 2002

3. Switch-ons

Ronan Keating, helped by Kirsty Howard, switched on the lights in 2002 Photo: Rob Lock

Geri Halliwell in 2004

4. Switch-ons

Geri Halliwell in 2004 Photo: Submitted

The Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On was performed by David Tennant in 2007

5. Switch-ons

The Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On was performed by David Tennant in 2007 Photo: Mark Pearson

A packed Talbot Square for the 1999 Illuminations switch on, which was performed by Gary Barlow

6. Switch-ons

A packed Talbot Square for the 1999 Illuminations switch on, which was performed by Gary Barlow Photo: Rob Lock

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