Alesha Dixon has been the first confirmed act for the Blackpool Illuminations switch on with Real and Smooth Radio.

This will be the first time the event has ever been on commercial radio in the last 13 years after GMG Radio North West secured the deal that BBC Radio 2 had previously held.

Over 15,000 people attend one of the biggest nights in Blackpool’s year with thousands more expected to tune in on Real and Smooth’s eleven stations across the UK. Presenters will broadcast from a purpose built arena throughout the day.

Alesha is just the first act to be confirmed for the event and has been revealed to Real Radio listeners on this morning’s breakfast show.

Maxine Callow, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Regeneration said: “I’m delighted that we are able to give a sneak peek at the quality of the line-up for our Big Switch-On Weekend and very much looking forward to seeing Alesha perform. We’re really excited as we prepare to announce our Switch-On star to the nation, and look forward to seeing the full celebrity line-up to launch this year’s world-famous Blackpool Illuminations."

Andy Carter Managing Director of GMG Radio said: “One of the world’s biggest names has agreed to join us on stage to be part of one of the UK’s largest annual events - this will be an event to remember and we’ll reveal all on Monday morning at 8am”.