Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) have said that a suspected blaze at the top of Blackpool Tower which caused a major alter for emergency services turned out to be orange netting blowing in the wind. Visitors enjoying their Christmas break in the Tower were evacuated.

LFRS said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that they were called to Blackpool Promenade ‘by concerned members of the public, due to a combination of factors that led them to believe it was a fire.’

After accessing the location of the suspected blaze, LFRS were able to confirm there was no fire. Their investigations were aided by Blackpool Police, who flew their helicopter over the Tower and spotted the orange netting.

In an update at 4.30 p.m., Lancashire Police’s Divisional Commander Ch Supt Karen Edwards said there was no blaze and what was seen was ‘orange netting’. She said, ‘We are at the scene in support of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Blackpool Council and Merlin Entertainment.

The top of the tower is currently closed for renovation and difficult to access. Our helicopter has flown over the tower and there is no fire. We can confirm what can be seen is orange netting.

One man has been arrested on suspicion of Breach of the Peace and is being transported to custody.’

Janet and Dave Evans were enjoying tea and scones in the Tower Ballroom when they were ordered to evacuate. Janet, 62, told the Mail On Line, ‘I had to leave my scone and cup of tea! People were dancing and having a great time when the music stopped and we were told to evacuate. It was a little worrying but people kept calm. We have been told if we come back tomorrow, we can go back in.’