Police issue statement after reports of fire at Blackpool Tower

A man has been arrested after police and fire crews were called to Blackpool Tower following reports of a fire.

Emergency services descended on the scene in Blackpool at around 2pm today after numerous videos on social media showed what appeared to be flames towards the top of the structure. However, police have since confirmed that a helicopter has been flown over the tower that was able to determine there was no actual fire.

According to the police, what can be seen by eyewitnesses close to the scene was in fact "orange netting". Lancashire Fire and Rescue Services reported that six fire engines were sent to Blackpool's Promenade.

Read more: Blackpool Tower fire LIVE updates as police issue statement

Divisional Commander Ch Supt Karen Edwards 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."

People were previously evacuated from the surrounding area by emergency services. The fire service 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."

In an update, Lancashire Fire Service said: "Confirmed: false alarm. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the Promenade, Blackpool today by concerned members of the public, due to a