A group of three base jumpers has been heavily criticized for performing a stunt from the viewing deck of Blackpool Tower, a descent described as "extremely dangerous" by the attraction's operators. The individuals accessed the platform of the 518-foot tower, with the viewing deck situated 380 feet above the ground, by unlocking a window using a "specialist tool." They then leaped from the window, filming their descent with helmet-mounted cameras for social media.
The incident occurred in front of numerous onlookers, including schoolchildren, on July 19. Two of the jumpers landed on the Comedy Carpet artwork near the tower, while a third, who was not wearing a helmet, landed on the roof of a nearby former Woolworths building. The window was reportedly closed shortly after the last jumper exited.
Blackpool Tourism, which manages the tower, issued a statement condemning the stunt, noting that the jumpers had made prior unsuccessful attempts to open other windows. The organization emphasized that all windows are kept securely locked, and the use of a specialized tool was required for access. They stated that while the individuals appeared uninjured, the act of parachuting over a busy promenade and active tram lines posed a significant risk of catastrophic consequences to the public.
Lancashire Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are examining whether the individuals broke the law by posing as tourists to gain access to the upper levels of the tower. Police are appealing for information or footage that could assist their inquiry, referencing log 0569 of July 19.
The jumpers have been identified as part of a group known as "Let's Make Stupid Decisions" (LMSD), which documents its base jumps online. LMSD organizer Mark Schroeder, a former Armed Forces bomb disposal veteran, defended the stunt, claiming it was meticulously planned by experienced professionals and that no damage was done to the windows, which were unlocked using a tool bought online. Schroeder stated that safety and planning are central to the group's activities.
This is not the first time LMSD has drawn attention. The group previously made headlines for climbing and jumping from the Humber Bridge and has documented similar stunts from other high-profile structures, including Clifton Suspension Bridge and Manchester's Trinity Heights tower. Despite the controversy, the group has previously asserted that "Base jumping is not a crime."
Base jumping, an acronym for jumping from Buildings, Antennas, Spans, and Earth, is considered one of the most dangerous extreme sports. While not illegal in the UK, jumpers can face legal repercussions if they access sites without permission. The sport involves using a single parachute with no reserve, with jumps typically occurring from heights between 300 and 1000 feet.