Spectators flee as huge bonfire collapses
A massive bonfire collapsed in Northern Ireland, causing people to flee as the flames almost fell on them.
The bonfire at Portadown, in County Armagh, was part of numerous ones lit by Unionists as part of July 12 celebrations held yearly to mark the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.
Footage showed the collapse of the bonfire and people fleeing on Sunday night.
Scores of people including young children screamed as they ran from the area.
People can he heard saying how “scary” it was and how they feared it would land on them.
Emergency services were called to the event but there were no reports of any injuries.
Local councillor Paul Duffy said it was a miracle no one was injured, the Belfast Telegraph reports.
“Nearby residents, drivers and homes were placed in serious danger as this bonfire came crashing down on to a main road. It’s a miracle that no one was killed.”
Bonfires held by Unionist and other pro-British Loyalist parties can be controversial, particularly when they involve the burning of flags, effigies and election posters.
