AUDIENCES were shocked earlier this week when a circus performance in Lancashire didn’t go according to plan.

The Blackpool Tower Circus acrobat fell to the floor in front of a live audience, as they carried out the heart-in-mouth ‘Wheel of Death’ act.

Paramedics rushed to the scene but the performer managed to escape with only “minor injuries”.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Tower Circus said: “We can confirm there was an unfortunate accident during this afternoons performance of the Tower Circus, involving a member of the Gerling Troupe.

“Sadly the troupe member suffered a fall during the Wheel Of Death act.

“Paramedics attended the scene and we are pleased to confirm the performer is fully responsive and being treated for minor injuries.

“Blackpool Tower Circus performances will continue as planned.”

Since the incident, which happened on Wednesday (25 May), many audience members have been sharing exactly what they saw at the time of the accident.

Kelly Barnes said it was “sickening” to see him fall.

“This was so horrific to see I'm just glad the man is ok,” said Dawn Morris.

She added: “Happy with how it was handled by the whole place! I'm just glad to hear he's okay and got the treatment he needed.”

One person said: “My husband was first on scene as a community first responder after this unfortunate event.

“The whole staff of the tower management and the other performers were absolutely amazing and completely calm which help the whole outcome of this unfortunate event.

“The response time from North West Ambulance was phenomenal and was there within seconds of my husband’s arrival to fully assess and transport patient to hospital.”

Mark McGrady said: “We were in the audience today and unfortunately witnessed this.

“I was so grateful for the email from Blackpool Tower confirming what has been posted here as we were worried about the performer.

“I’ve got to say how well the tower staff and performers reacted to this incident and how it was handled getting everybody out of the circus to be able to treat the performer in private.

“Hoping he makes a speedy recovery.”

“Were there when this happened and the response by the staff was brilliant,” said John Deacon. “We have rebooked for tomorrow’s show.”

Another person said: “Me and my family were there celebrating my birthday yesterday when this happened. It was absolutely horrific to see.”

The Wheel of Death act can be dangerous if performed incorrectly.

In 1994 Neville Campbell, 20, died after landing on his head during a "Wheel of Death" act at Blackpool Tower Circus.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Shows and Attractions said: “The Wheel Of Death is a very common circus act currently being performed at many UK touring circuses and indeed all over the world.

“It is a calculated risk and thankfully accidents are very rare. That said these fearless performers spend many years training to do these acts and live for the adrenalin and entertainment of the public.

“They love what they do and we have no doubt after recovering the young man will be straight back up on the wheel.”