Channel Islands broadcaster Gary Burgess has switched on the famous Blackpool Illuminations.

The much-loved local presenter and journalist started his media career in the Lancashire town in 1992, making cups of tea at Radio Wave.

He and his husband Alan have been back visiting friends, after stepping back from regular appearances on Jersey's Channel 103 and reporting for ITV Channel Television.

It's after he was diagnosed with an inoperable form of cancer and being told he may only have a few months to live last November.

Gary and Alan Burgess on the Blackpool Promenade

While Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas switched on the 2021 illuminations for the first time earlier this month, as they don't run 24/7, it was arranged for Gary to have the honour last Thursday night.

He told the crowd that being asked to flick the famous switch 'means more to me than you'll ever know'.

Good morning you.

Homeward-bound after a very special week in Blackpool seeing family and some close friends.

Laughter, tears and surprises along the way.

Not least this… I got to turn on the actual Blackpool Illuminations.

Just incredible! pic.twitter.com/cehl5hRvz4

— Gary Burgess (@GaryBurgessCI) September 12, 2021