A DERAILED tram threw Blackpool's transport system into disarray.

The tram came off the rails opposite Blackpool's Sea Life Centre on the Promenade as it made its way back to the depot at about 12.20am.

On board were the driver and two conductors, none of whom was hurt.

The accident was caused by extreme weather conditions as a gale-force wind filled the tracks with sand. The tram veered off the rails, sliding into the northbound carriageway of the Promenade and ending up against an Illuminations pole, severely damaging the wheels.

The derailment closed the tramway between Talbot Square and Manchester Square and a replacement bus shuttle service was in operation throughout the day. Trams were still running to the north of Talbot Square

Liz Esnouf from Blackpool Transport said: "This is an extremely rare occurence, we don't think that anything like this has happened since the early 80s." Blackpool Transport managed to get the tram back to the depot later in the afternoon.