Mel B to switch on Blackpool's illuminations
The Spice Girls legend will be flicking the switch on the 30th August
Last updated 9th Aug 2024
It's been confirmed that Mel B will switch on the Blackpool Illuminations.
The Spice Girls legend will be making a return to the town, having first started as a 16-year-old dancer at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Last month, she received an honorary doctorate from Leeds Beckett University, which recognised the star for her work with domestic abuse victims and her global influence as “a music icon”.
The Switch-On ceremony will be hosted by Leanne & Joel from Hits Radio Breakfast, and will feature a two-hour concert headlined by Ella Henderson and featuring former member of The Pussycat Dolls, Kimberly Wyatt, and Massaoke performed by Rockstar Weekend.
Mel, who joins a Switch-On roll of honour that includes national and international celebrities down the years, said: ““I’m so thrilled to be turning on the Illuminations because Blackpool has played a big part in my life and career.
“I was just 16 when I came to Blackpool to be part of the Mystique dance group. To me it was the most glamorous place in the world - the Vegas of Britain.
“I had so much to learn, so fast and it stood me in good stead for everything that came later. I love the people, the place and of course the fish and chips - with plenty of scraps."
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We are thrilled to announce Mel B as the 2024 Switch-On star.
“Not only is she a member of one of the best-known girl groups on the planet, her work with vulnerable women and victims of domestic abuse is exemplary.
“It will be a pleasure to welcome her back to the resort where she started out on what was to become a stellar career.”
The Upbeat Rock Academy, which organises rock music tuition for more than 300 students from across the Fylde Coast, will present Blackpool Introduces, a 90-minute-long showcase of local talent.
The young people will be joined by Blackpool-based House of Wingz, an award-winning hip hop dance crew that has already been featured on prime time national television.
The illuminations takes place on Friday 30th August.