Thrill-seekers forced to walk down rollercoaster steps after The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach broke down

The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach was evacuated after it broke down earlier today.

Thrill-seekers were forced to descend the steps of the iconic rollercoaster after it ground to a halt, LancsLive reports.

Park staff managed to scale the rollercoaster before tentatively guiding nervous visitors to safety by making them walk down.

LancsLive has contacted Blackpool Pleasure Beach for further information.

Images of the rescue have been shared on social media.

One person said: "OMG. Big one stopped right at top today 12ish and the staff had to walk every one down safely. Well done

"Think I would have been really scared. Then it was sent round the track empty a few times then we walked home bit of excitement. All worked out ok."

Riders had to climb down The Big One after it breaks near the top (Margaret Summers)

Another commented: "My brother’s in Blackpool and just sent a video of people stuck at the top of the Big One and having to walk down to get off it. I’d be welded to my seat. They’d have to get me out with a crane."

A third person said: "Walking people down the Big One in Blackpool. At least they will get their steps done today."

Another added: "Can you Imagine if I was stuck on the big one, I think I'd be screaming."

When the £12m ride, formerly known as the Pepsi Max, opened in 1994, it was the tallest and steepest roller coaster in the world.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach reopened on April 12 as part of the easing of lockdown measures.