A MAN has been arrested after a fire appeared to have broken out at the iconic Blackpool Tower, as news filtered through that 'flames' were actually orange netting flapping in the wind.

A fire appeared to have broken out at the top of the tower and emergency services cordoned off a large section as crowds watched on.

Footage from social media showed what appeared to be flames coming from near the top of the 158m structure and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed there were in attendance of a fire.

 

Six fire engines, a drone team and a rope rescue team were scrambled to the scene.

The tower was evacuated, a member of staff told the PA news agency.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service urged people to stay away from the area.

However, Lancashire Police have now issued an update, confirming that the incident is not a fire.

Lancashire Police Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent 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 have been posting 'Please save Blackpool Tower' messages of support for the emergency services across social media after learning the much loved structure was apparently on fire.