Woman stuck at top of Blackpool Tower during fire praises 'fantastic' staff

The flames were extinguished by firefighters using an aerial ladder platform

Lynne Buckland told the BBC: "We are a bit fed up but at the end of the day we've got fantastic views and they are keeping us refreshed.

"Everyone has been fantastic and we had to make the most of it."

Twelve people - seven visitors, including two couples from Scotland, and five members of staff - were kept at the top of the Tower as a precaution after workmen fixing a leaky roof accidentally started a fire at around 12.40pm yesterday.

Kate Shane from Merlin, which runs the Tower, said they were given drinks and chocolate while they waiting for the elevator shaft to be cleared from smoke.

They were brought down safely later, and invited back for free today.

The Ballroom and Dungeon opened at 10am, while the Blackpool Tower Eye opened slightly later once electrical boards, damaged by water, were replaced.