Blackpool Tower ‘fire’ found to be orange netting
A ‘fire’ at the top of Blackpool Tower that triggered an emergency response turned out to be orange netting blowing in the wind, say police.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service sent six fire engines to the landmark attraction on the promenade at 2.14pm.
Footage from social media showed what looked like flames coming from near the top of the 158m structure. A drone team and rope rescue team are currently at the scene, the fire service said.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue spokesman said: “We have six fire engines, the drone team and the rope rescue team currently in attendance at a fire on Promenade, Blackpool.
“There may be significant disruption so please stay away from the area. The drone team are in operation so please do not fly drones in the area as you may obstruct emergency operations.”
Lancashire Constabulary confirmed it was onsite to support fire and rescue teams. Police later said that the ‘flames’ were in fact orange netting. A spokesperson said: “Our helicopter has flown over the tower and there is no fire. We can confirm what can be seen is orange netting.”
Are you near Blackpool Tower? Contact matt.mathers@independent.co.uk
