News in brief: ITV broadcast cut short by fire alarm

THE live broadcast of the ITV News at Ten was suddenly cut short last night by a fire alarm going off – forcing the programme off air for around 15 minutes.

Tom Bradby was left having to inform viewers that he and others had no choice but to leave the building shortly after 10.10pm.

The presenter told shocked viewers: “As you can probably tell we have a fire alarm – we’re not quite sure what to do about it.”

After a brief pause, he added: “I’m really, really sorry about this but I’m afraid we have to evacuate the building. These things happen and unfortunately it has happened tonight and we have very little choice.

“I really apologise, we will get back to you with the rest of the programme if we possibly can.”

The disruption followed two headline news stories about the NHS having to cancel thousands of operations, and US President Donald Trump hitting out at both North Korea and Steve Bannon, his former adviser. The programme came back in time for the weather.

ITV later said it was a false alarm and all staff were safe. Viewers were quick to praise Mr Bradby’s calm demeanour on the screen throughout the drama.

Laura Brander, head of communications, tweeted: “Just spoken to @tombradby live from the scene of the @ itvnews fire drill & can confirm thankfully it was a false alarm & all staff members are safe & well.”

Presenter Alastair Stewart tweeted: “Blimey. Fire alarm disrupts then stops @itvnews at Ten. Calmly handled by @ tombradby.”

Newsreader Kylie Pentelow posted: “Fire alarm @itvnews takes #Newsatten off air...”