There was momentary alarm in Hamrun this evening when the statue of St Gaetan was almost dropped as it was being lifted up to the church in the traditional run at the end of the procession.

The incident happened at about 10.30 p.m.

People screamed as the statue was almost dropped and it was only thanks to the quick action of some people who were on the Church steps that disaster was averted.

Those present applauded as the statue was raised upight once more and turned to face the people before being taken into the Church.

The statue is the work of Maltese sculptor Charles Darmanin. It was completed in 1885.

(Top video - facebook/Lino Azzopardi)