Emergency services have been called to an incident at Ramsgate Tunnels today (June 2) after a partial collapse of one of the stages while it was being set up.
Two people received injuries when the structure came down while it was being set up by Ramsgate Events. The pair were taken to hospital for checks, with injuries described as minor, and police have cordoned that area off from public access. It is understood there may have been a fault with the hydraulic lifting mechanism.
The 80th anniversary event today is continuing and adjustments will take place so the variety show can still be staged.
Kent Police confirmed attendance was to assist the ambulance service. A fire crew is currently at the scene making the area safe.
Th Health and Safety Executive is due to be informed.
A Kent Police spokesman said: “Kent Police was called to Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate at around 11.20am to assist the South East Coast Ambulance Service.
“Officers attended, where a small portable stage had collapsed and two people had suffered injuries, believed to be minor. A cordon was set up to ensure public safety.”
Organisers said the incident was minor and the event continues. The siren will be sounded at 1pm and again at between 3.30pm and 4pm to mark the beginning and end of the Dad’s Army Variety Show, which is being held outside the Tunnel entrance in Marina Esplanade.
A vintage market is taking place in the adjacent public car park.
As well as the entertainment, market and other attractions the Tunnels will be unveiling two plaques commemorating the parts played by both Borough Engineer Richard Brimmel and the Top Hat Mayor A.B.C. Kempe in the construction of the tunnels that saved countless lives during World War Two.
There is also home front cooking demonstrations and re-enactors. A temporary stage was set up and visitors heard a recorded message from 102-year-old singer Vera Lynn.