Illuminations - Best Event in England?

Blackpool Illuminations has been shortlisted in a national competition to find England’s Best Tourism Event.
By: HostNorth
 
Nov. 1, 2010 - PRLog -- 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.

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 dazzling display stretches almost six miles from Starr Gate to Bispham, shining non-stop for 66 nights each autumn.  There are over a million lamps and more than 500 scenic designs and features in an event that costs £2.4 million to stage each year.

A 45-strong team with over 1,000 accumulated years of experience, including artists, electricians, joiners, mechanics, painters and engineers, work all year round so the Illuminations shine.

The Best Tourism Event category recognises events and festivals of a substantial nature with over 20,000 visitors with judges looking for evidence of sustainable tourism, innovative marketing, investment in staff, good accessibility and a commitment to excellence including attention to detail and a concern for the visitor or customer’s wellbeing and enjoyment. A board of tourism industry judges including the Gold winner of the hotel category in 2009, Sue William, and travel journalists Alison Rice and Sally Shalam selected the finalists.

All 46 national finalists announced today were selected from over 100 regional winners submitted by regional tourist boards and were rigorously assessed to make it through to the national final.

You can find out more about Blackpool Illuminations on our website http://www.gotoblackpool.co.uk/attractions/Blackpool-Illu...

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