Steps have switched on the Blackpool illuminations, which organisers described as the boldest and best display ever.

Claire, Faye, H, Lee and Lisa were cheered on by tens of thousands of fans in Talbot Square as they lit up six miles of lights along the town’s promenade.

The group was joined by Emma Bunton, Marti Pellow, Lisa Stansfield and Swedish duo Roxette.

Steps’ Lee said it was a great thrill to switch on the illuminations.

“I used to go to Blackpool as a child and have really happy memories of the town,” he said.

“It’s a great place to have a good time.”
Eight million people are expected to visit Blackpool to see the display, which lasts until 4 November.

The Blackpool illuminations began in 1879 when just eight arc lamps were lit on the Promenade.

This year’s display cost £2.4 million and includes almost 500,000 light bulbs.