"However, it would be unthinkable not to launch our Blackpool Illuminations season with an extraordinary event. "Staging the first ever virtual Switch-On concert to a mass audience watching from home does exactly that. "We are very much aware of how much our tourism businesses are suffering as a result of the pandemic and we hope that by extending the Blackpool Illuminations season by two months, it will give them an opportunity to bring in some additional trade. "We are planning for a safe, socially distanced Illuminations experience and will be keeping all Government health guidance under review as we move towards the autumn season." Virginia Monaghan, vice president of events and experiences at ViacomCBS Networks International.