Blackpool

BRAVE Amanda Holden takes to the Britain’s Got Talent red carpet wearing the top that almost saw her flash the show’s audience at auditions.

But an onlooker said the 54-year-old “was being much more careful this time round.”

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Show judge Amanda — in a lop-sided strapless top — nearly exposed herself by lifting her left arm to wave at the crowd as she strutted on stage at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Saturday.

After adjusting her clothes to preserve her modesty she sat down.

Then, gesturing to her boob, she admitted: “This keeps slipping out every time I raise my arms.”

Yesterday The Sun revealed a small production team were quickly put on “nipple watch” to ensure there were no surprise appearances during filming of the ITV ­talent contest.

Undeterred, Amanda wore the strapless top again.

Our observer reported: “She waved with her left hand, where her top had more coverage than on the right-hand side, and kept her other hand firmly in her pocket most of the time.

“Amanda didn’t want any wardrobe malfunctions again. She was probably already feeling the chill in blustery Blackpool.”

Also dressed for sunnier climes was head judge Simon Cowell in shades, and fellow panellist Alesha Dixon wearing sunglasses and a crop-top.

Only hosts Ant and Dec and new judge KSI — taking over from Bruno Tonioli — looked ready for Lancashire weather.

Auditions for the 19th series of BGT, due to air next year, continue in the seaside town until the end of this week.

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Tourists from New York have shared their thoughts on Blackpool after hearing how the seaside resort is commonly referred to as the ‘Las Vegas of the North’ – and they only had good things to say

When visiting England, most tourists make a beeline for London due to its history, culture and endless activities. But two New Yorkers decided to add Blackpool to their list to compare its similarities to Sin City after hearing how it’s described as the “Las Vegas of the North”.

When exploring its sights, tourists Max and Max bumped into TikTok user @AWalkOnTheWildSideTV who asked them about their visit. He said: “I’m here with Max and Max from New York – so what you doing here guys?” In response, the tourist said: “We’re checking out Blackpool. We’re seeing the sights with the man himself [points at AWalkOnTheWildSideTV].” But there was one thing that took them both by surprise – Blackpool’s deep history.

Max added: “We’re not used to cities with such rich history as this in the US. When was it named? 1602. It’s unbelievable and it’s beautiful. We’re loving it.”

Blackpool received its name in the Medieval ages from a discoloured steam that drained through peatland, creating a black pool where it met the sea.

The name first appeared in a baptismal register for the Bispham parish, with the modern spelling Blackpool, in 1602.

The seaside town has been a hotspot for tourists ever since the 18th century when sea bathing gained popularity for his health benefits.

In more recent times, it has become known as ‘Las Vegas of the North’ due to its lively nightlife, bright lights, extensive slot arcades and reputation for entertainment.

Now, it attracts around 20 million tourists annually, according to a STEAM report that measures attendance at events, visitor attraction numbers, and occupancy levels at hotels.

Commenting on his video, one user said: “It must be rewarding meeting people who are tourists from abroad not only that you could bump into a celebrity.”

Another user added: “Keep up the good work, mate. Post more videos, they are amazing.”

A third user said: “It was lovely that Max and Max wanted to meet you. I know you enjoyed meeting them.”

On his channel, AWalkOnTheWildSideTV, whose real name is Stevie, shares a glimpse of every day life in Blackpool as well as documenting notable events – such as when the Typhoon and C-17 Globemaster took off from the seaside town.

In one of his most-viewed videos, he showed off an “epic Blackpool sunset”, saying even the police spotted to take in the breathtaking view.

One user added: “The best sunsets are in Blackpool, this one is a beauty.” Another user said: “Don’t care what anyone says, Blackpool is magical.”

Someone said: “Blackpool has the best sunsets in the world.” A final user said: “I live near the front and run most nights looking at this.”

Blackpool is one of the UK’s most iconic seaside towns but just five miles away is a town that’s just as inviting yet totally different

With its tower, illuminated promenade and Pleasure Beach amusement park, Blackpool is one of the most well-known seaside towns in the UK, attracting around 20 million tourists every year.

But a smaller town, just five miles south, slips under the radar of holidaymakers. I visited Lytham St Annes, historically a fishing and shrimping harbour with a Victorian pier and golden beach, to see exactly how it was different to its famous neighbour.

I parked up close to St Annes Pier before having a stroll along the seafront and the first thing I noticed was how quiet and peaceful it was — a far cry from the hectic nature of a tourism giant like Blackpool.

“It’s a lot different here and it’s less frenetic,” Janet Ruanne tells me as she sits on a bench with her husband Martin. “We love it here. We’ve got the beach so close and there’s many nice places to walk. We come to the promenade basically every day, it’s lovely.”

The couple are from East Lancashire but moved to Lytham St Annes five years ago. They believe they have a beach worthy of rivalling any in the area, including Blackpool’s.

Mrs Ruanne, 67, says: “I think we’ve got one of the best beaches on this whole coastline. The people here are so friendly too which you don’t get everywhere else. It’s just a lovely place to come to.”

Mr Ruanne, 72, adds: “You’ll notice the beach here is really clean. They have a good group of volunteers who come and clean the beach regularly.”

From the South Promenade I walked towards and through the pier. It is located directly in front of the main high street, surrounded by a bandstand, Victorian shelters and seafront gardens.

St Annes Pier was built in 1885 and cost £18,000. Built from cast iron and wood, the structure was one of the first public buildings in St Annes.

It was restored in 2018 and now features a host of amusement games perfect for young families to enjoy. The open-air end of the pier boasts stunning coastal views across St Annes seafront and towards Blackpool.

It was here that I met Jenny Shaw who was visiting the area with her family. They are from Chesterfield, in Derbyshire, and visit Lytham St Annes most summers.

“We normally come in the summer holidays. It’s flat which makes it easy to walk around and enjoy,” she says. “The beach is lovely and there’s some nice parks. I think the town centre is underrated too – there’s plenty of places to eat and drink.”

While Blackpool can sometimes be tarred with a bad reputation for antisocial behaviour in its busiest months, Mrs Shaw says this is not the case with Lytham St Annes. “There’s no bad behaviour here. I think bits of Blackpool are quite grim but you don’t get that in Lytham. Everyone is really friendly and lovely,” she explains.

Lytham St Annes’ beach has miles of golden sand and is lined by iconic beach huts. It strikes me as a quintessentially British and timeless beach, perfect for leisurely walks and family activities.

Relaxing on the beach are Chris and Wendy Moden. The pair are visiting Lytham St Annes from Bolton and think it’s the perfect place to come for young families.

Mr Moden, 70, says: “We’ve got two grandchildren – aged six and four. We’d definitely bring them here, I think it’s perfect for a holiday.”

He tells me the family also enjoy visiting Fairhaven Lake, which is located between Lytham and St Annes. The saltwater lake offers a variety of activities, including boat rodes, nature walks, a play park and an area for bird watching.

He adds: “It’s a lot better than Blackpool. It’s a lot cleaner and less busy which I think people appreciate. Every time we come here we feel like we’ve had a good day out.”

Mrs Moden then chimes in: “Everyone is so friendly here. There’s never any trouble. We can come for a quiet walk along the beach and the views are beautiful.”

The promenade and pier are conveniently located close to the main high street. There are a number of shops and cafes on St Annes Road West including big name retailers and independent businesses.

Hazel, who did not want to give her surname, has lived in the town since she was five years old. She is sat in the town centre after doing some shopping.

“I think I’ve had a great life here really. We’re so lucky to live in a place like this. I always like going to sit down at the beach. We’re just very lucky really.”

According to Hazel, Lytham St Annes is far quieter and more relaxed than its famous neighbour.

“Blackpool always get really busy and noisy. It was terrible last time I visited – it was far too much,” she explains. “It’s a lot quieter here which I like. It’s cleaner too as we get less tourists.

“There’s also less antisocial behaviour here I think, although we get some. Just like everywhere, you’ve got some nicer and less nice bits.”

If you’re after an action-packed seaside holiday with lively nightlife and entertainment, then Blackpool will remain your place.

But if you prefer a more relaxed and peaceful holiday, then Lytham St Annes is probably going to be a better option. It boasts charm and natural beauty, as well as a slower pace of life.

ANYONE looking for a cheap holiday with some great beach time needs to consider heading to Mamaia.

It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in Romania and is also one of the cheapest – and has a hotel owned by a former footballer.

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Mamaia is a lively beach resort known for its nightclubs and sandy beaches that sits on a thin strip of land between the Black Sea and Lake Siutghiol.

Thanks to its location it has incredible views across the water with highs of 25C in September.

Romania itself is known for being one of the cheapest countries for a city break – you can get a local beer for just 11 lei – £1.88.

The resort is considered the ‘Blackpool‘ of Romania thanks to its affordability and party atmosphere.

In Mamaia, one hotel is even owned by a celebrated Romanian footballer who has been known to sit at the bar and chat with guests.

Gheorghe Hagi, who played for the Romania national team for 17 years, bought the IAKI Conference & Spa Hotel in 1999 and has given the hotel a big makeover since then.

Now, it has 122 spacious rooms and apartments with rates starting at €60 (£52.04).

Thanks to its location on the Mamaia strip, the hotel has either seafront or lake views.

The hotel has a first-class spa with a hot tub, yoga room, room for spin classes and a wet and dry sauna.

There are outdoor and indoor pools too and even access to a private beach.

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The IAKI beach has 220 sun loungers and umbrellas and a volleyball court.

The IAKI has three dining areas too, the Coriolis is open all-year round, has traditional Romanian food including plenty of seafood, and meat like beef tenderloin and lamb chops.

The Ballroom restaurant is where buffet meals are served for guests during the summer period.

IAKI Casino is usually reserved for special occasions, like birthdays, weddings and baptisms.

As for where to get a drink, guests can check out the Piano Bar, Sunrise Bar as well as the bar on the beach.

As the hotel is owned by a former footballer, there is of course a football pitch where both staff and guests can play.

On Tripadvisor, the hotel is rated number one in Mamaia.

One guest wrote: “It has been our 4th visit here and, as usual, the view towards the sea was magnificent, the room was prepared in advance with a baby cot for our daughter, food was excellent.

“I had the chance to see the owner in person again: Gheorghe Hagi, the best Romanian footballer of all time!”

Another added: “Our best memory represents the fact that we met “the king”- Gheorghe Hagi at the front desk and at the hotel’s bar. We took a photo with him and he gave us an autograph.”

It’s easy to get there too, with Wizz Air, you can fly direct from London Luton to Constanta Kogalniceanu from £23.

From there, Mamaia is a 30 minute drive away.

Romania is so affordable that one woman even flew to there for a spa holiday with her mum because it was cheaper than the UK – even with return flights.

And here’s another pretty European city most Brits won’t have heard of gets new cheap flights from the UK.

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A WOMAN has tragically died in hospital after she was pulled from the sea at a popular UK beach.

Emergency services raced to the scene on the Promenade, opposite the Belvedere Hotel in Blackpool yesterday.

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Lancashire Police, HM Coastguard and the town’s beach patrol all responded to the incident.

Officers have confirmed that a woman in her 30s was rushed to hospital after receiving treatment on the scene.

She has since sadly passed away and her next of kin has been informed.

Cops said the tragic death is not being treated as suspicious, a file is being prepared for the coroner.

A spokesperson for the force said: “We were called at about 10am today, August 25, following reports a woman had been pulled from the sea opposite the Belvedere Hotel at Blackpool.

“Despite the best efforts of emergency services at the scene and at the hospital, the woman sadly later died.

“Following enquiries, the woman, in her thirties, has now been identified and her next of kin has been informed.

“Our thoughts are with her loved ones.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for HM Coroner.”

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THE WORLD’S top place to take bored kids this summer, which is in the UK, has announced a new rainy day guarantee scheme.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort has introduced a free return for ticketholders who attend the attraction on a day that rains.

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The new policy means that guests will always have a great visit to the attraction, because if the weather is poor they can return on a day where it is better.

The policy will be in place throughout August and it will need to rain for more than three hours on the day of their trip.

If this does happen, then guests can return for free within seven days of their original visit date.

CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, Amanda Thompson OBE said: “It’s important to us that guests have the best time when visiting, and while technically speaking the rain doesn’t affect our rides, we wouldn’t want the wet weather to dampen anyone’s day.

“We truly believe that you can have a great time at Pleasure Beach come rain or shine, but we know that everything is extra special when the weather is on side.”

If a guest wants to use a rainy day return, they should arrive at the same ticket centre on the day of their return visit and display their eTickets, paper tickets or confirmation email to staff.

The new option can also be used seven days of the week.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach resort was also recently named as one of the best attractions to bust kids being bored.

AttractionTickets.com created an index compiling the best attractions to take kids to this summer and the Lancashire-based attraction managed to beat the likes of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

Overall, it scored 31.3 out of a possible 35 marks.

The attraction is home to 10 rollercoasters, five ‘dark’ (indoor) rides, five water rides and 12 Nickelodeon-themed rides.

Throughout the year, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort also hosts a number of shows, including fireworks.

Earlier this year, the reimagining of Launch Pad was unveiled, which climbs up to 80 mph and sends riders 210 ft into the air.

AttractionTickets.com’s Banish Boredom Index was made by analysing reviews from over 160 destinations, and the UK dominated the top 20.

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These included the likes of the Tower of London, Ribby Hall Village, and Warner Bros. Studio Tour London all made the list.

Some other attractions across the UK offer rainy day guarantees, such as Crealy Adventure Park in Devon.

The attraction offers visitors a free return within seven days of their original visit if there is 30 minutes or more of continuous rainfall during their visit.

It is worth checking the FAQs or T&Cs of your tickets to an attraction to see if the theme park, adventure park or other destination offers the same guarantee.

Use these tips on your next theme park trip

Next time you visit a theme park, you may want to use our top tips to make the most of your adrenaline-inducing day out.

1. Go to the back of the theme park first. Rides at the front will have the longest queues as soon as it opens.
2. Go on water rides in the middle of the day in the summer – this will cool you off when the sun is at its hottest.
3. Download the park’s app to track which rides have the shortest queues.
4. Visit on your birthday, as some parks give out “birthday badges” that can get you freebies.
5. If it rains, contact the park. Depending on how much it rained, you may get a free ticket to return.

There is also a unique UK theme park with safaris, water park and rides for everyone from toddlers to grandparents.

Plus, Disney is set to open a brand new theme park and resort – here’s everything we know.

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POLICE have launched a manhunt after a woman was sexually assaulted.

The incident occurred in the Claremont area of Blackpool at around 4.45am on Saturday, June 28.

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Blackpool Police has now released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in relation to the assault.

Cops believe he may have been in the town centre area throughout Friday evening and Saturday morning.

In addition to the manhunt, they are also appealing for CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage between the town centre and Claremont area.

In a statement to Lancashire Live, Blackpool Police said: “We’re asking if you recognise this man after an incident over the weekend.

“At around 4:45am on the morning of Saturday 28th June, we received a report of a sexual assault in Blackpool.

“It was reported that a man sexually assaulted a woman in the Claremont area of North Blackpool.

“An investigation is underway, and the woman is being supported.”

Anyone that recognises the man, has information, or footage that could assist the investigation should contact 101 quoting log 0270 of 28th June.

EASTENDERS star Jamie Borthwick has been dramatically suspended by the BBC for using a vile disabled slur on the set of Strictly.

The actor 30, apologised for “any offence and upset” after aiming the sick jibe at Blackpool locals.

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Disability equality charity Scope said the remarks were “ignorant and hurtful”, adding: “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable.”

The EastEnders star was suspended by the BBC after a video emerged of him on the Strictly set using the term “m********s” to describe the people of Blackpool, the seaside town where the show was being filmed.

Blackpool Council’s Tory group leader Paul Galley blasted: “Everyone will be shocked at such a horrible comment and I join them in condemning it.”

And the BBC told The Sun on Sunday: “This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. We have robust processes in place for this.”

The Sun on Sunday understands Jamie has been suspended by the BBC from his role playing Jay Slater on EastEnders.

Jamie made the offensive remark on a mobile phone video while the Strictly cast and crew were at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom last November for the flagship BBC1 series live show.

He was backstage during rehearsals with his Strictly co-star Wynne Evans who said “Oh my God” on the footage sent to a pal of Jamie’s.

Jamie, who has been on EastEnders since 2006, said in a statement to The Sun on Sunday: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.

“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused.

“It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.

“That is on me completely.

“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did.

“It was wrong.

“When I made the video, I was excited and caught up in the moment.

“Again, that is no excuse.

“But my regrettable actions are not a true reflection of my views, or who I am.

“I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the town itself.

“The people of Blackpool have always been amazing with the Strictly crew, dancers and cast members.

“I know they will be again for this year’s show and those in years to come.

“I am truly sorry.”

The actor and Wynne were sharing their excitement after being told they were selected for the lucrative Strictly tour – which was staged nationwide earlier this year.

Jamie, laughing, says on the video: “Blackpool by the way. “Absolute m********s’.”

The soap star and his professional dance partner Michelle Tsiakkas were lauded in Blackpool after dancing the Jive to The Ketchup Song by Las Ketchup in the live show on November 16.

This latest shock comes after opera singer Wynne was booted off the Strictly tour in January accused of making an inappropriate sexual comment, and later told his BBC Radio Wales contract is not being renewed following a four-month investigation.

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And it follows The Sun on Sunday revealing in April how Jamie and Wynne were rapped by BBC bosses for sharing a joke over a sex toy video backstage at the Strictly tour in Birmingham – which happened before the latter’s suspension.

Now Jamie is at the centre of a new storm after The Sun on Sunday alerted his team and the BBC to the latest video.

It sparked an angry reaction from disability campaigners and the people of Blackpool.

Warren Kirwan, Media Manager at disability equality charity Scope said: “Attitudes and language like this are never acceptable.

“It’s not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people, it has wider consequences.

“Negative attitudes hold disabled people back in all areas of life from getting a job to shopping on the high street.

It’s not just ignorant and hurtful to disabled people, it has wider consequences. Negative attitudes hold disabled people back in all areas of life from getting a job to shopping on the high street

Warren Kirwan, Scope

“Mr Borthwick needs to reflect on what he said, educate himself and do better.

“We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people’s lives.”

Councillor Paul Galley, Blackpool Council’s Conservative group leader, condemned Jamie Borthwick’s comments.

He said: “Blackpool’s best asset is its amazing people, along with the millions of people from around the UK who genuinely love the town.

“Everyone will be shocked at such a horrible comment and I join them in condemning it.”

Meanwhile, a source explained how the Blackpool show is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Strictly series – with celebs and pro dancers often saying how much they enjoy performing there.

The source added: “This will be considered a real blow and hugely embarrassing to the BBC and the show’s very warm relationship with the people of Blackpool and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.”

The UK’s favourite amusement park has had a big new addition to its line-up this week, as one of its iconic attractions was officially unveiled with a new look – and a brand new name

It’s been a bumper year for UK theme parks, with Universal Studios announcing its arrival and major new attractions popping up at Alton Towers and Thorpe Park. Closer to Greater Manchester, Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Resort has also been making waves, particularly this week with the grand reveal of its revamped and rebranded Launch Pad.

I was among the first to test the ride on Wednesday morning (May 7), just hours before it officially opened its doors to the public, writes the Manchester Evening News’s Adam Maidment. It’s a heart-pounding adrenaline rush as riders are catapulted 210ft into the air at a blistering 80mph.

READ MORE: ‘Gorgeous’ £9 body spray perfume ‘just as good if not better than Sol de Janeiro’

A word of advice – keep breakfast light before hopping on. If you’re a regular at Pleasure Beach Resort, you might already be acquainted with Launch Pad, albeit under a different guise.

Since its debut in 1997, it’s gone through several name changes – starting life as Playstation: The Ride and later becoming known as Tango Ice Blast and then simply Ice Blast.

But 28 years after its initial unveiling, bosses told me on opening day that it’s been given a ‘new lease of life’. In fact, it’s undergone such a transformation that it’s best considered a brand new ride.

There’s a fresh theme, vibrant new colours, a catchy new soundtrack and even a new cylinder. Diving into the mechanics without getting bogged down in jargon, the thrill of the ride is largely due to the pressure cylinder operating at a whopping 105 PSI, exerting a force of 105 pounds.

Karl Murphy, Pleasure Beach Resort’s engineering director, has previously remarked: “We’ve increased the force, which means the acceleration is greater.”

As someone who’d never experienced the ride’s earlier incarnations, I was essentially going in blind, save for the anticipation of being catapulted skywards. Its longstanding popularity hinted at an extraordinary experience awaiting.

The ride’s space theme is a perfect match, easily conjuring images of being aboard a rocket about to blast off. A brief countdown from mission control and suddenly, it’s lift-off time.

The immediate surge of speed is electrifying, prompting involuntary shouts of excitement (or terror). The sensation of the G-force is palpable, offering a taste of astronaut life without leaving Earth.

And if you manage to regain your composure while suspended 210ft high, do take a moment to appreciate Blackpool’s beauty on a clear day – the sandy stretches, the iconic Tower, and the expansive views are truly breathtaking.

The new attraction may be brief, but it is so engaging that you’ll likely fancy multiple rides if the queues are manageable.

Beyond Launch Pad, visitors can enjoy other attractions such as Valhalla, previously crowned the best water ride in Europe, and the legendary The Big One roller coaster which, at 213 feet tall, has endured admirably for 31 years.

Pleasure Beach Resort recently refreshed Valhalla two years ago – a move that has seen it reclaim its title as the best water ride in Europe – and is maintaining its momentum by updating classic attractions, with River Caves next in line.

At the Launch Pad debut gathering, Pleasure Beach Resort CEO Amanda Thompson OBE underscored the significance of these revitalisations: “Re-imaginings like this one are fantastic for our industry. Not only do they create a new and incredibly powerful ride experience, they’re sustainable, and they allow us to re-invent beloved attractions for generations to come.”

Even to newcomers who missed the ride’s earlier versions, the care and investment poured into reimagining Launch Pad is evident; the attraction has been reborn with abundant new features that almost render it a brand-new experience.

Pleasure Beach Resort is certainly pulling out all the stops to maintain its standing as one of the top theme parks in the UK, and perhaps even further afield.

They’re also gearing up to unveil a brand-new Gyro Swing next year, with a hefty price tag of £8.72m, set to be the largest of its kind on these shores.

You’d do well to add Launch Pad to your itinerary for your next jaunt to Pleasure Beach Resort – it’s sure to sweep away the cobwebs.