First image emerges of fire erupting inside Pink Punters as revellers danced in popular Milton Keynes nightclub
A scary photo has emerged to show how a small blaze on an outside balcony area rapidly spread to destroy the popular Pink Pinters club in a suspected arson attack.
The picture shows clubbers on the floor below looking up in surprise at the bonfire-size flames when the fire first broke out.
Seconds later, the club was evacuated before the fire ripped through the Fenny Stratford LGBT+ venue – despite the efforts of almost 50 firefighters.
The drama began at 2am on Sunday after an automatic fire alarm alerted staff that something was amiss.
Pink Punters boss Frank McMahon said the blaze spread “very quickly” but all emergency procedures were followed and nobody was hurt.
“Whilst I am devastated to say that the building itself has been completely destroyed, I am deeply relieved, grateful and proud to confirm that no staff or customers were harmed, and everybody went home safely,” he said.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank my entire workforce. They acted calmly, professionally and effectively in the most serious of circumstances. At Pink Punters, we have always maintained the highest standards in training, equipment and procedures. Years of practising fire drills, over and over again, paid off when it mattered most.”
Thames Valley Police have arrested a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.
Meanwhile, Q:alliance, the city’s LGBTQ+ charity has expressed horror at the destruction of a “safe place” and offered support to any people who need it.