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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National
Hannah Al-Othman North of England correspondent

Blackpool Illuminations: An enlightening look behind the scenes

Richard Williams Blackpool
Cars drive along the promenade as the Blackpool Illuminations shine above them
The annual event started in 1879. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian

Where might one find three giant jellyfish, a Dalek, and a flying bear? In a fever dream perhaps, but also here, in the Blackpool Illuminations storehouse.

Inside this nondescript building, close to Blackpool airport, is where the magic is made.

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