Blackpool Tower Circus was plunged into chaos today as a terrifying motorbike accident unfolded before horrified spectators.
The incident occurred during the 'Globe of Death act', a daring stunt that sees a motorcyclist perform at breakneck speeds within a steel mesh sphere. Eyewitnesses recounted how the rider lost control and fell from his bike during the second half of the performance, with the bike subsequently landing on him.
His fellow performers immediately rushed to his aid, while the audience was swiftly asked to evacuate the venue. Emergency services arrived shortly after, and the injured motorcyclist was whisked away to hospital. The news emerges as HGV driver was 'distracted by porn' on phone before fatal motorway crash.
One shocked spectator 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.", reports the Mirror.
First responders rushed to the Promenade following an incident, with numerous ambulances and fire engines on scene. A statement released by Everything Blackpool stated: "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 spokesperson for Blackpool Tower Circus added: "We have rigorous safety protocols in place, and the performer was executing a rehearsed move under planned conditions."