A devastating fire has destroyed the clubhouse of Penarth RFC in the Vale of Glamorgan, prompting an outpouring of support from the rugby community. The blaze, which broke out at around 5am on Monday, was caused by an electrical fault, fire investigators confirmed. Firefighters managed to save the historic stand, but the clubhouse—shared with Penarth Cricket and Penarth Hockey clubs—was left in ruins.
The club said it was in a 'state of shock' and that 'so many memories' had been lost, including irreplaceable memorabilia such as shirts, trophies, honours boards and photographs. Among the items destroyed was a Springbok head presented by the Barbarians in the 1960s. Former player and club president Mike Gooding told BBC Radio Wales: 'There was nothing there. You walk in and it's just dust. There's no bar, no chairs, no roof.'
A fundraiser launched to support the club has raised over £6,500 in just over 24 hours. The appeal describes the club as 'the heart of our community' and says the community is 'heartbroken'. Club chairman Sean O'Sullivan said: 'We're obviously devastated but we will be back – bigger and better. The messages and outpouring from other teams has been incredible.'
Welsh rugby referee Nigel Owens offered his support on X, writing: 'Very sad to read this. Best wishes to you all there and am sure you will get through this together. If you ever decide to have a match to raise funds for the rebuild please let me know and will be a pleasure to come and referee it.'
