POP star Ronan Keating is to switch on Blackpool's 2002 Illuminations on Friday, August 30.

The former BoyZone frontman, who is about to release his new single I Love It When We Do, will flick the switch after an hour of entertainment from supporting stars Darius, Sugababes, Toploader and A1.

The whole event will be broadcast live by Radio 2 and Ronan will be the first celebrity to throw the Lights lever on a completely revamped switch-on box, decorated with glittering fibre optics.

Coun Roy Lewis, Blackpool Council's tourism and regeneration, leader said: "We are grateful to Radio 2 for providing a fantastic line-up of stars for this year's ceremony. The range of music and artistes will ensure that there is something for all the family."

The evening switch-on ceremony takes place on Friday, August 30 -- the live Radio 2 broadcast begins at 8.30pm. The lights will then shine nightly until Sunday, November 3.