Blackpool Illuminations: More Team GB medallists at switch-on
Two further Team GB Olympic medallists have been added to the line-up for the switch-on of the Blackpool Illuminations.
Rower Sophie Hosking and gymnast Max Whitlock will join Beth Tweddle, Greg Rutherford and Luke Campbell at the ceremony on Friday. Singer Rick Astley will also perform on the night, in what is the centenary year of the famous lights. Last year's switch-on ceremony drew crowds of 20,000 people. Sophie Hosking won gold in the women's lightweight double scull race with partner Kat Copeland and Max Whitlock won bronze in the pommel horse final. Natalie Wyatt, from Marketing Blackpool, said: "The centenary of the Blackpool Illuminations needed a strong line-up and what could be more fitting than having five Olympic medallists to flick the switch. "The 2012 Olympics resulted in the whole nation supporting our athletes and the amount of pride people have for the team's achievements should be celebrated." The Illuminations, which cost £2.2m to stage, attract some three million visitors to the resort every year and will shine each night until 4 November.