Tag: 2024

Chris Lowe Back in Blackpool

Chris Lowe, along with Neil Tennant, his partner in the iconic synth-pop duo The Pet Shop Boys, gave a one-night performance at Funny Girls in Blackpool on 6 September 2024. The pair, who formed their groundbreaking musical act in 1981, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Lowe was born in Blackpool in 1959 and continues to show his affection for his hometown, as highlighted in a video of him playing It’s a Sin on the Wurlitzer organ at the Tower Ballroom. He has also supported local music initiatives, notably donating a state-of-the-art keyboard to Blackpool Music School. Lowe’s connection to Blackpool… Read more »

Coastal Radio Local Business Awards

The inaugural Coastal Radio LBA (Local Business Awards) in 2024 was a resounding success, setting the stage for what promises to become an annual highlight in the region’s business calendar. The event was made possible by the incredible support of Coastal Radio’s headline sponsor, Danbro Business Solutions and Financial Planning, alongside the invaluable contributions of the other 24 category sponsors, all of whom played a vital role in bringing the awards to life. A heartfelt thank you was extended to every sponsor, partner, and supplier involved in the event. Without their commitment and dedication, this celebration of local business excellence… Read more »

Counter-Terrorism and the Big Food Project

On Wednesday, 11 September 2024, Victoria will speak at Fylde Coast Resilience about her involvement in The Big Food Project at Blackpool Foodbank and her extensive work as an international counter-terrorism consultant for both the UK Government and the United Nations. Currently, Victoria serves as the Director of Offender Management and Specialist Services at Prospects Services. Before this role, she spent several years advising the UK Government and the UN on counter-terrorism efforts, focusing on offender rehabilitation and prison management in countries such as Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Algeria, and Tajikistan. Victoria’s career also includes a significant role as Head… Read more »

Showtown Museum Launch

Showtown, Blackpool’s newest attraction, offers a vibrant and entertaining journey through the town’s rich showbiz history. Situated in the heart of Blackpool, this museum brings the town’s fun-loving spirit to life with a dynamic, immersive experience. Designed to entertain and engage, it showcases the famous entertainers who helped shape Blackpool’s legacy, from comedians and dancers to acrobats and larger-than-life performers. The museum highlights how this seaside resort became a hub of British entertainment. Visitors can step onto the dance floor, breathe in the nostalgia of the circus, and explore the hidden stories behind the scenes. For those eager to dive… Read more »

The Backlot Cinema and Diner

The Backlot Cinema & Diner officially opened on 22nd March. Situated in the Houndshill Shopping Centre, it features a state-of-the-art entertainment complex, boasting Blackpool’s only IMAX screen. This screen, one of the largest in the North West at 10.85 meters high and 19.87 meters wide, uses IMAX with Laser technology to deliver a high-quality, immersive cinematic experience. The cinema provides a diverse selection of films, ranging from the latest Hollywood releases to arthouse titles and special event screenings. In addition to movies, the venue hosts a variety of events, including corporate conferences, birthday parties, comedy nights, and live gaming tournaments…. Read more »

Tram Line Extension to Blackpool North Train Station

Blackpool’s new tram extension to Blackpool North railway station, known as the North Station tramway extension, opened in June this year. This extension links the railway station with the existing tram network, making it easier for people to get around town. The tram line starts at the Promenade near North Pier, goes up Talbot Road, and ends at Blackpool North railway station. The extension has new tram stops that fit in with the current transport system. It provides a direct route between the railway station and the Promenade, which benefits both commuters and tourists. This new line improves public transport,… Read more »

Talbot Gateway Holiday Inn

The Holiday Inn at Talbot Gateway in Blackpool is a key feature of the area’s ongoing £350 million regeneration project. This new addition to the town opened in mid-2023 and boasts 144 rooms, making it a modern and centrally located option for both business and leisure travellers. Managed by RBH Hospitality, the hotel is directly connected to Blackpool North train station via a newly constructed underpass and is adjacent to a tram extension linking the town centre to the Blackpool Promenade. This connectivity underscores its role as a hub for visitors arriving in Blackpool. The Holiday Inn also features Marco… Read more »

Odyssey 2024

The biggest standalone light installation ever created for Blackpool Illuminations has brought a futuristic feel to the famous Golden Mile. Standing at 11 metres high, Odyssey is a spectacular interactive display that has been co-created by international designer Jack Irving in collaboration with a highly-talented team of computer scientists from Lancaster University. The outdoor installation comprises six large-scale towers that are combined with state-of-the-art technology to create an immersive projection show themed on undiscovered creatures lurking in the depths of the deep sea. Odyssey, which has been manufactured at the Blackpool Illuminations Lightworks factory, has taken more than two years to design… Read more »

Star Trek Convention at The Norbreck Castle

The convention at Norbrek Castle in Blackpool is a major event for Star Trek enthusiasts, attracting fans from all corners. Blackpool, with its rich history in entertainment, serves as an ideal venue for such gatherings, and the Norbrek Castle Hotel has become a favoured location for fan conventions over the years. This event is a comprehensive celebration of the Star Trek universe. Activities typically include panel discussions with actors, writers, and prominent figures from the franchise, providing attendees with a chance to hear firsthand stories and behind-the-scenes insights. Fans can also take part in autograph sessions and photo opportunities with… Read more »

George Formby Society attends Blackpool Convention

The George Formby Society was at the Blackpool Convention this June, showing their commitment to preserving George Formby’s legacy. Formed to honour the famous entertainer, the society keeps his musical traditions alive by performing his classic songs on the ukulele. Their appearance at the convention highlights their dedication to sharing Formby’s music and memory with new audiences. The George Formby Society, founded in 1960, is a fan-based organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating the life and legacy of George Formby, one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers of the 20th century. Known for his skills as a ukulele player, singer, and… Read more »