Mel B returns to Blackpool to launch Illuminations season

Former Spice Girl Mel B, who started her career as a 16-year-old dancer in the Mystique show at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, returned to the resort to officially launch the illuminations season.

Mel flicked the switch on more than one million lights along a six-mile stretch. Tens of thousands attended the launch, which also included fireworks and live music from Ella Henderson, the former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt, and Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas. The line-up also featured young musicians from the town.

Mel, who sold more than 100 million records with the Spice Girls, is now a patron of Women's Aid and who received an MBE for her charitable work, said: “I used to be a dancer in Blackpool, my first ever proper job was at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. I used to come every year with my mum, dad and sister to watch the lights being turned on, and this year, I’m here doing it!”

Coun Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “This has been another extraordinary night for Blackpool. We have witnessed some fantastic performances from chart-topping stars as well as giving some of our own young people an opportunity to perform in front of such an amazing huge audience.

“Watching Mel B turn on the lights was the icing on the cake. It was a real pleasure to welcome her back to Blackpool the place where she started out on what was to become a truly superstar career.”

Blackpool Illuminations will run until January 5, 2025.