'Fire' at Blackpool Tower turns out to be orange netting blowing in wind

Flames reported at the top of Blackpool Tower in England were actually “orange netting”, police have said, after firefighters had earlier rushed to the scene.

Police in the Irish Sea resort flew a helicopter over the top of the tower and were able to confirm that there was no blaze.

The 158m structure is currently closed for renovation.

The fire service was called to the scene by “concerned members of the public”.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of breach of the peace, police said.

We have 6 fire engines, the drone team and the rope rescue team currently in attendance at a fire on Promenade, Blackpool.

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. pic.twitter.com/d4qXWoAhrf

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— Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service (@LancashireFRS) December 28, 2023

A Lancashire Police statement said: “We know there are reports of a fire at Blackpool Tower and we just wanted to give you an update from our divisional commander Ch Supt Karen Edwards.

“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.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service had six fire engines in attendance on the promenade and the tower was evacuated as a precaution.

The fire service said in a statement: “Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service were called to Promenade, Blackpool today by concerned members of the public, due to a combination of factors that led them to believe it was a fire.

“The area where the fire was suspected is generally inaccessible, therefore access to this area is difficult. A specialist team from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service gained access and confirmed that there was no fire.

“This incident was supported by the National Police Air Service, who used thermal imaging which provided further assurance.”