Tragic Murder Near Blackpool Tower Casts Shadow Over Strictly Blackpool Week
As Strictly Come Dancing prepared for its iconic Blackpool Tower ballroom week, tragedy struck nearby when a 59-year-old man, Kevin Price, was found dead on Sunday, November 10. The discovery, made during a police welfare check at the Garfield Hotel on Springfield Road, revealed that Price had suffered multiple stab wounds. The hotel is just an 11-minute walk or a three-minute drive from Blackpool Tower.
Lancashire Police quickly launched an investigation, with officers and forensic teams flooding the streets. Two suspects are currently being questioned in police custody, according to the BBC. Detective Chief Inspector Simon Pritchard urged the public to assist in the investigation, saying, “Please come and speak to us if you have any information at all as what you know could help us piece together the events that led to Kevin’s tragic death.”
The incident has placed Blackpool on “high alert,” with additional security measures implemented at Blackpool Tower to ensure the safety of the Strictly Come Dancing stars, crew, and fans. A source told The Sun: “It’s the pinnacle of the show, but it’s really been clouded by this tragic murder. The streets have been filled with police and forensic teams. Everybody has been on high alert”, according to the Express.
Despite the somber atmosphere, the show must go on. The celebrities and professional dancers traveled north for the highly anticipated Blackpool week, which is known for its grueling schedule. Former Strictly pro Brendan Cole has described the week as “really rather demanding,” noting that the logistics of travel and filming mean contestants lose a full day of rehearsals.
This year’s Blackpool lineup includes comedian Chris McCausland, JLS singer JB Gill, TOWIE star Pete Wicks, and Miranda actress Sarah Hadland. Joining them are Gladiators champion Montell Douglas, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, and GoCompare ad legend Wynne Evans.
While fans eagerly anticipate the dazzling performances at the Tower, the shocking circumstances surrounding Kevin Price’s death have left an indelible mark on the event. As police continue their investigation, the Blackpool community and Strictly team alike are grappling with the tragic loss of life just steps away from the grandeur of the ballroom.