Fire crews and emergency services swooped to tackle the inferno at Penarth Rugby Club near Cardiff, Wales at around 5am this morning
A huge blaze has torn through the clubhouse of a historic sports ground this morning. The fire ravaged Penarth Rugby Club near Cardiff, Wales, which also serves as the base for the seaside town’s cricket and hockey teams.
Firefighters and emergency services rushed to combat the inferno at around 5am, reports WalesOnline. Images circulating on social media show huge flames coming from Penarth Athletic Club on Lavernock Road, with some parts of the building left destroyed.
The fire was brought under control just under three hours later. The club said: “Absolutely devastating news to bring you this morning about our beloved Club House. We are all in a state of shock as it’s such a hub of the community for so many people of all ages.
“So many memories have been lost but thankfully no one was hurt! “Special thanks to South Wales Fire Service for their quick response and efforts. Big thanks to everyone who has reached out to Dan & Hubbs offering support and services.
“Penarth Rugby, Penarth Cricket and Penarth Hockey will all come together and we will rebuild!”
In a post on X, Cardiff Rugby said the fire was “devastating,” adding it will be in touch to see how it can support Penarth RFC. Local rugby clubs have also posted messages of support after hearing about the serious fire.
Barry RFC described the fire as “tragic”. A post from the club read: “Our thoughts and sympathy this morning are with the players, committee and members of Penarth RFC.
“During the early hours of this morning their clubhouse somehow caught fire and it looks like it has been burned to the ground.
“This is such a tragic event because as we all know our clubhouses are our homes and a lot of a rugby clubs history is physically attached to the walls of our bars and lounges.
“Penarth RFC is a club with a massive history we hope that they can re-build and recover from this as quickly as possible.
“No doubt other rugby clubs nearby will perhaps be in a position to offer the use of facilities on a temporary basis if required and that certainly applies to Barry RFC if Penarth RFC need to reach out for help.”
Dinas Powys Athletic Club said it was “deeply saddened” to hear about the “devastating fire”.
As well as Penarth RFC, Penarth Athletic Club is also home to the town’s cricket and hockey teams.
A spokeswoman for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “SWFRS received a call at approximately 04.59 am to reports of a fire at Penarth rugby and football club. The roof was well alight and spreading to area of trees behind.
“Crews and appliances from Penarth, Barry and Cardiff Central attended and extinguished the fire using hose reel, 45mm jets and breathing apparatus.
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