Pop legend Elton John had to cut short his Blackpool concert as gale forces winds started to whip up along the Fylde Coast.
The Rocket man had completed two hours of his appearance to launch the new Blackpool Tower Headland when he had to call it off.
The 'Candle In The Wind' singer was advised by police 2 hours into his set at Blackpool Tower Headland outdoor arena to finish, as the weather worsened and they could not ensure the health and safety of the audience.
Elton John told the crowd: "I have been told there is some really bad weather on the way. The police say you need to leave right now in an orderly fashion. I'm sorry but I don't want anyone to be hurt. I'll make it up to you."
The problem was the imminent high tide coupled with atrocious weather which had been battering the Fylde Coast for much of Saturday.
In a statement to Radio Wave News, Marketing Blackpool said
"During the final few songs of the set, weather conditions rapidly deteriorated and wind speeds increased, giving cause for concern.
Throughout the worsening conditions, Elton’s production team worked to reduce the effect of the wind on both the stage and Elton’s massive production infrastructure, leading to the lowering of the video screens and the backdrop. Wind speeds were closely monitored and gusts approaching gale force were recorded.
MET office forecasts predicted worsening conditions and on the advice of experts on the ground, at 8.55pm the decision was made that the concert should be terminated for safety reasons.
Elton was made aware of the situation and duly explained this to the crowd, telling them how wonderful they had been and how disappointed he was to be leaving such an enthusiastic audience, in Elton’s opinion, the best on the UK tour. He invited the crowd to exit the venue in a calm and orderly fashion and the understanding crowd acted accordingly.
A spokesperson for the venue confirmed local police and fire chiefs were in full agreement regarding the decision to halt the concert. A statement by Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service praised the "detailed planning and preparation carried out by all agencies and the professional management” which ensured the venue "to be cleared safely”.
Following the termination of the concert the LFRS, who were monitoring the weather reports, confirmed that conditions continued to worsen during the load out which in itself could not be completed on Saturday night and was concluded this morning (Sunday 17).
The decision to halt the concert was not taken lightly, but paramount in everyone’s mind was the safety of all present."
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