Blackpool News

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Train strike warning ahead of Blackpool Illuminations Switch-on

Rail strikes have been a big feature of the summer in 2023 and they threaten to disrupt one of the big events in Blackpool’s annual calendar, the Illuminations Switch-On.

All services cancelled

Rail strikes are planned for Friday, September 1st and as such they could potentially impact many visitors planning to make a trip to the Blackpool Illuminations Switch-on. Members of train drivers’ union Aslef have voted to strike on September 1st due to a lengthy pay dispute and as such, many rail providers will be forced to cancel all services with others running a much-reduced service. Among the fourteen operators affected are Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express and Northern.

Travel Misery

The travel misery may continue on Saturday, 2nd September when the RMT holds yet another strike with over 20,000 members walking out. An overtime ban has also been issued by Aslef on Saturday, this action set to impact services significantly across the UK.

Maximum amount of disruption planned

The strikers are aiming to cause the maximum amount of disruption and the Friday action will certainly have a negative impact on many visitors planning to travel to the Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On. Described as the greatest free light show in the world, thousands will be heading to Blackpool Promenade to see the free family entertainment.

Free family event

The Blackpool Illuminations will once again be extended over a full four months and the switch-on will be undertaken by pop singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor on Friday evening. The celebrations will get underway at 7pm with a float parade commencing at 7:30pm. No tickets are required for this free event.