Blackpool Tower Circus evacuated after 'Globe of Death' act high-speed bike crash

Blackpool Tower Circus was evacuated today after a horror bike incident unfolded in front of crowds.

It is understood that a motorcyclist sustained injuries during the 'Globe of Death act', a dramatic stunt in which a rider performs at high speeds inside a steel mesh sphere. Witnesses at the circus reported how the rider came off the bike during the second half of the act, before it landed on him.

Fellow performers rushed over to his aid, and the audience were reportedly asked to leave the venue. Ambulances and the fire service attended the scene a short time later, and the motorcyclist was rushed to hospital.

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One member of the audience told Manchester Evening News: "It was around 3.50pm this afternoon. The rider entered the mesh ball and started his performance normally. As the second half of his performance began, he let go of the bike to perform his act without holding onto the bike but unfortunately fell off and slid down the ball.

"As he lay there after falling off, the bike carried on moving as it came round and knocked him on the head. Whilst the cast of the circus checked to see if he was ok, around 200-250 of us got asked to leave the circus as quickly as possible."

Another witness said they were sat in the audience at around 3.50pm and were 'massively shook' by the incident. Emergency services raced to the scene of the incident on the Promenade, with multiple ambulances and fire engines in attendance.

A statement shared by Everything Blackpool read: "We’re saddened to report that during today’s performance at Blackpool Tower Circus, one of the motorcyclists in the iconic Globe of Death act sustained injuries.

"Emergency services responded swiftly, and the rider was taken to hospital for treatment. Our thoughts are with the performer, their family, and the entire circus team during this difficult time.

"These artists risk so much to thrill and entertain - today was a stark reminder of the dangers behind the spectacle."

A Blackpool Tower Circus spokesperson added: “We have rigorous safety protocols in place, and the performer was executing a rehearsed move under planned conditions.”

Elsewhere, a spokesperson for Blackpool Tourism Limited told Blackpool Gazette: “We can confirm that an incident occurred at The Blackpool Tower Circus earlier today which led to an early ending of the show. We are assessing the situation carefully and will provide an update as soon as more information is available."

The Mirror has contacted Lancashire emergency services for comment and we will update you as soon as we hear back.

In April last year, a circus performer plummeted to the floor after tumbling from a 'Wheel of Death' during a show at Blackpool Tower Circus. They were treated for a minor wrist injury while the tent was evacuated. Affected guests at the time were given complimentary tickets for a future performance.