LONDON — Firefighters have been called to a blaze at Blackpool Tower.

Flames were seen emerging from a metal section close to the top of the seaside resort's iconic landmark.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) deployed six fire engines and a "rope rescue" team. Lancashire Police officers are also in attendance.

People have been told to stay away from the area and ordered not to fly drones since doing so may obstruct emergency operations.

In a statement, LFRS 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."

Built between 1891 and 1894, the tower is 158m (519ft) high and is a Grade I listed building.

Inspired by a trip to Paris in 1889, former Blackpool mayor Sir John Bickerstaffe had the idea of building a Lancashire version of the Eiffel Tower. — BBC