Take That star Gary Barlow has graciously stepped in to perform at the Blackpool Illuminations switch on this evening.

The Script were initially booked to play at the event but were forced to pull out at the last minute due to a “family matter”.

Barlow said that he would be happy to step in but only if organisers of the event "write a cheque to Children in Need".

Eliza Doolittle is also scheduled to appear at the event and Madness will also be appearing on Sunday.

Simon Blackburn, head of Blackpool Council commented: "Marketing Blackpool and Blackpool Council are working very hard to make sure that, in typical Blackpool style, the show will go on and a top quality replacement is found.

"We're doing all we can to make sure it will be as good a show as possible and as many people as possible are able to attend."

Jonathon Ross will be switching the lights on at the event.