This is the question being posed to the town after the idea was discussed at a meeting to look at key events in the area.

Detailed minutes from the latest Mablethorpe and Sutton Events Partnership meeting show members agreed this year's event with celebrity guest Timmy Mallett 'was better than ever before.'

But to save money it was suggested a celebrity should be dropped in favour of 'local people who have done well for themselves.'

Town clerk Jen Cooper who attended the meeting on November 12 said: "Financial implications were considered - the cost of a celebrity, appearance fee, accommodation, refreshments, and whether that money could be used in other ways to make the illuminations different for everyone."

Also present at the meeting were Mablethorpe Town Centre Manager Karen Froggatt, Coun Tony Howard, ELDC members, and representatives from the local Tourism Forum.

Coun Irene Burnett said: "This idea was discussed years ago and I think it would be very good to try it out one year – some of the long-serving RNLI crew could do it."

But a Sutton on Sea resident, who asked not to named, said: "This is one of the few events for the benefit of Mablethorpe residents. Without a celebrity I doubt many people will turn out for it."

Celebrities who have switched on Mablethorpe's lights in the last ten years include Keith Harris and Orville the Duck, Barbara Windsor, Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee, Mr Blobby, and several Coronation Street actors. BBC Look North presenters Peter Levy and Paul Hudson have also appeared.

Local mayor Helen Parkhurst said: "Personally I would try and keep a celebrity for the event but it's important that whoever we get caters for everybody, young and old."

She added: I would like to see more entertainment for children at the switch-on, so an extra children's entertainer would be good. We should also improve on the street party feel to the event."

Local businessman Michael Kheng from Spanish City, said: "Whoever does the job needs to play to a wide range of ages and I would suggest some added humour. To simply give a speech nobody wants to listen to then turn the lights on is not what, in my mind, the audience wants.

"The question really is the level and quality of the celebrity. Some can pull the crowds and be very entertaining and others not. The same can be said of a local 'hero'. Anyone can flick a switch but not everyone can entertain or deliver a confident and clear speech."

He added: "the live entertainment and fireworks are great, keep them in."

Last year Timmy Mallett appeared with the help of local businessman Richard Borthwick from Sharky's Bar who paid for his travel and accommodation, with the star's appearance fee being paid for by East Lindsey District Council.

The Leader asked Richard if he would provide the same financial help next year. He told us: "I've not been asked to, so if I did get a celebrity, chances are I would book them for a different night."

Jen said: "Personally I thought Timmy Mallett went down well with crowds and was excellent on stage."

She added: "No decision has been made yet and I hope there will be many more ideas put forward before then."

What do you think to the idea? Which celeb would you like to see in Mablethorpe? Email your views to gemma.gadd@jpress.co.uk