Historic rugby club left ‘in shock’ after ‘devastating’ fire

The fire began at 5am on Monday morning

Firefighters had to be called out to Penarth Rugby Club near the Welsh coast at 5am on Monday after local residents were awoken by the outbreak of the flames.

As reported in the BBC, Alison Jones and her husband Alistair — who live in close proximity to the 145-year-old rugby club — were the first to notice the fire and soon called emergency services.

She told the BBC that the first fire engine arrived within 5 minutes of her initial call, which meant they were able to stop the spread of the fire to Penarth's historic stand.

Despite best efforts, their arrival was too late to save the clubhouse from the flames, resulting in the loss of memorabilia that dated back decades.

Per the BBC, a spokesperson for the club has made clear that the sports institution was a "second home" to many in the community and added that it supported more than 400 people, across three sports.

The club have since released a number of images taken from Monday night's events, that show the extent of the damage caused by the fire which left Penarth RFC's clubhouse completely gutted.

"Absolutely devastating news to bring you this morning about our beloved Club House," reads a statement made on behalf of the club.

It goes on to say: "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!"

As well as sporting matches, the club had also been scheduled to host a number of separate community events over the festive period.

All of these have now been cancelled and it remains to be seen how the club will come up with the funds to rebuild their clubhouse over the coming months.

Penarth Rugby Club was founded in 1880, making it 145-years-old.