THE forecast for this weekend is soaring temperatures on Blackpool Beach as the UK's favourite seaside resort gets Hot Hot Hot!

Blackpool Illuminations, this year celebrating '125 Electric Light Years', shine nightly from the big switch on by Geri Halliwell on Friday until 7 November.

Geri will flick the switch to launch this year's display when BBC Radio 2's Mark Radcliffe, from Bolton, will also welcome live on stage record breaking boy

band McFly - including Bolton's Danny Jones - Fame Academy hit-maker Lemar, former Savage Garden lead singer Darren Hayes, 80's chart toppers Swing Out Sister and the cast of Boogie Nights starring Jimmy Osmond and Billy Pearce.

On Saturday Central Beach will come alight for the 'Beach of Fire' when visitors will be treated to 30ft high dancing flames, amazing fire twirlers, spectacular illuminated sandcastles and a fabulous pyrotechnic display.

Giant sandcastles will be built from 6pm with entertainment from 8 - 9.45pm, including a spectacular light parade of powerful illuminated Honda Goldwing Motorbikes which will wow the crowds as they travel along the resort's famous Golden Mile.

The cavalcade is planned to leave Gynn Square at the north of the town at around 8.30pm and will head towards the Golden Mile and Pleasure Beach.

A magnificent firework display will light up the sky for the grand finale to the Big Switch On Weekend at 8.45pm on Sunday.