A devastating fire has ripped through a historic rugby club’s headquarters, leaving its members in a ‘state of shock’.
The blaze engulfed Penarth Athletic Club near Cardiff, Wales, in the early hours of Monday morning.
The clubhouse, which has been reduced to a hollow shell filled with debris, served as the headquarters for the seaside town’s rugby, cricket and hockey teams.
Fire crews and emergency services rushed to the scene at around 5am, with the inferno brought under control several hours later.
Dramatic footage captured by shocked bystanders shows intense orange flames flickering in the dark while thick, black smoke fills the air.
The clubhouse has been left a charred wreck, with no belongings able to be salvaged.
Penarth Athletic Club this morning posted a devastating statement about the news, saying its members have been left in a ‘state of shock’.
‘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,’ the club wrote.
‘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!’
Penarth Rugby Club, which operates under Penarth Athletic Club, is best-known for hosting annual matches against the Barbarians.
The alarm was reportedly raised by a couple who live locally to the clubhouse, the BBC first reported.
Alison Jones said: ‘Alistar and one of the coaches, Pete Botham, were first on the scene – and we called 999.
‘Luckily, they managed to stop the fire before the historic stand burned down.’
The Daily Mail has contacted South Wales Fire Service for comment.
