Modern Blackpool Illuminations ‘have become art vanity project’

“We’ve seen examples of where there’s Illuminations of celebrities’ dogs – who’s asked for this?” Galley said.

“What market research is being carried out as to what the visitors or the residents of Blackpool want?”

Once described as “artificial sunshine”, the Illuminations – first staged in 1879 – are one of the biggest and longest-running light-based festivals in the world, reportedly attracting more than 12 million visitors a year.

They extend nearly seven miles (11km) along the Promenade, starting at Squires Gate and finishing at Red Bank Road.

More than a million LEDs feature in the Illuminations.

The features are made using a variety of methods, combining 3D printing with traditional metalcraft and woodwork.