A significant fire has erupted at a historic and iconic building in the West Yorkshire town of Brighouse, with dramatic scenes unfolding on the evening of Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Flames Light Up the Brighouse Skyline
Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of a blaze at a structure believed to be the former Ritz ballroom and nightclub. The building, a well-known local landmark with a rich history as an entertainment venue, was seen engulfed in flames.
Photos and videos shared widely on social media platforms, including by local community page Brighouse Matters, captured the severity of the incident. They show large flames rising high above the town's skyline, with dense, dark smoke spiralling into the night air above the location of The Ritz.
Emergency Response and Unknown Cause
The fire service is currently at the scene tackling the major blaze. The exact cause of the fire is not yet known and will be subject to investigation once the flames are under control.
At this stage, the primary focus for crews is containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to neighbouring properties. There have been no immediate reports regarding casualties, but the situation remains dynamic as emergency operations continue.
Community Reaction and Historical Significance
The sight of the historic venue ablaze has sent shockwaves through the local community. The Ritz holds a special place in the area's social history, having served generations as a popular ballroom and nightclub venue before closing its doors.
Its potential loss represents a significant blow to the town's architectural and cultural heritage. The full extent of the damage will not be clear until firefighters have fully extinguished the blaze and safety assessments can be carried out.
Authorities are likely to advise residents in the vicinity to keep windows and doors closed due to the smoke, and to avoid the area to allow emergency services unimpeded access.
