Blackpool Illuminations has been shortlisted in a national competition to find England’s Best Tourism Event.

The annual light show, funded by Blackpool Council, has been listed amongst some of the best tourism businesses in England as a finalist in the 2010 Enjoy England Awards for Excellence, sponsored by The Caravan Club.

Cllr Maxine Callow, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Blackpool Illuminations have been shining brightly since 1879, starting with just eight arc lamps on Princess Parade, and are still illuminating over 130 years later. The real northern lights are part of the fabric of the nation and a much-loved family attraction that continues to develop and evolve. We are delighted that the Enjoy England Awards has recognised this truly iconic event.”

The first Illuminations were described as “artificial sunshine” and have been a guiding light for visitors ever since. Today’s Illuminations are world-famous and have been named in the top ten of the globe’s best lightshows (source: The Discovery Channel). It is estimated that in excess of three million people enjoy the Illuminations each year - spending more than £275 million during their time in Blackpool, making the Illuminations event not just a visitor attraction, but a vital part of the resort’s visitor economy extending the traditional season by a further nine weeks. 

The skies above Blackpool will once again light up this September as fabulous fireworks return to the resort.

visitBlackpool is proud to announce a new format for 2010 which will see the event take place over one spectacular weekend on 10, 11 & 12 September 2010 as the amazing pyrotechnic displays wow audiences for three nights in a row, featuring winners from previous years’ contests in a Champion of Champions extravaganza.

The annual RideSafe Rendezvous will again be held in Blackpool, Lancashire, with the aim of providing a great day of entertainment and a wealth of sound advice about road safety and rider training options for motorcycle and scooter riders of all ages.

The event is organised by RideSafe BackSafe, a dedicated road safety initiative that is run ‘by bikers, for bikers’ and it is expected to draw enthusiasts from across the North West and beyond.

Ex-Emmerdale actress Hayley Tamaddon, 33 and Dancing on Ice partner Daniel Whiston, 33, were pictured taking a break from training at Bradford ice rink, with some interesting reading.  It looks like the Blackpool-born pair are catching up on their home town, and possibly planning their next holiday there.  The pair were engrossed in a copy of the new Blackpool Guide checking out what’s planned in the country’s favourite beach resort this year. 

Also engrossed in the Blackpool Guide, is Strictly Come Dancing star Camilla Dallerup, 35.  The Danish-born beauty was snapped at the iconic Blackpool Tower when she was in the resort filming for GMTV's Dance Diet Workout.  The dancer, who quit the BBC show after winning in 2008 with actor Tom Chambers, is already a big fan of the resort and if rumours are true that there are talks about filming the next series of Strictly on location in Blackpool, then it’s sure to get her vote.

visitBlackpool is proud to launch the latest in its 'I ♥ BPL' line - a stylish black hoodie.

The street hoodie, which features thumb cuffs and hidden MP3 and phone pockets, is available in small, medium, large and extra large - and Mr Hudson, famous for chart hits like Supernova, has already snapped his up!

The I ♥ BPL brand is also a big favourite with current Dancing on Ice stars Hayley Tamaddon and Daniel Whiston, who supported their home town by wearing a t-shirt sporting the distinctive logo.

Both items are available to buy from the Tourist Information Centre on Blackpool’s Clifton Street, or call 01253 478217 for further details.