A 51-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following a fire at Pink Punters, an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Fenny Stratford, near Milton Keynes. Thames Valley Police received reports of the blaze at 2am on Sunday, and a large number of partygoers and residents were safely evacuated by staff.
Frank McMahon, the club's owner, expressed devastation that the building was completely destroyed but relief that no one was harmed. He vowed the club would reopen, stating: 'Pink Punters will be back.' The family-run venue has been operating for more than 25 years, featuring dancefloors, an outdoor bar, and karaoke.
Fire crews from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service attended, with 12 crews at the peak of the incident. Footage showed flames inside the top floor and towering above the roof. Roads in the Watling Street area were closed. The arrested man remains in custody.
Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, Milton Keynes commander, urged the public not to speculate on the motivation for the fire, saying it was too early to comment. She praised staff for their quick and effective evacuation of the venue.
