A man arrested after a major fire destroyed the Pink Punters LGBTQ+ nightclub in Milton Keynes has been released on conditional bail while police enquiries continue.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a 51‑year‑old man from Milton Keynes, who was detained on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, has now been released as investigations into the blaze remain ongoing. Officers said they are continuing to keep an “open mind” about the circumstances surrounding the incident, according to BBC News.
Emergency services were called to Watling Street shortly after 2am following reports of a fire at the venue. Revellers and nearby residents were evacuated as flames quickly spread through the building. No injuries were reported, with police praising staff for their swift actions in getting people to safety.
Graham Robson
Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, Thames Valley Police’s commander for Milton Keynes, described the incident as a “significant fire” that required the evacuation of a large number of people. Speaking to the BBC at the scene, she said: “Thankfully no one was injured and staff at the venue worked quickly and effectively to safely evacuate everyone.” She added that it was “too early to comment on any particular motivation” for the fire and urged the public not to speculate.
Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said it deployed up to 12 fire engines at the height of the blaze, which took a considerable time to bring under control. Crews remained at the site afterwards to monitor hotspots and ensure the area was safe.
Pink Punters, which has been operating for more than two decades and is regarded as one of the best‑known LGBTQ+ nightlife venues outside London, was extensively damaged in the fire. The club has long been seen as a central hub for the LGBTQ+ community in Milton Keynes and the wider region.
The venue’s owner, Frank McMahon, told BBC News he was devastated by the loss of the building but relieved that no one was hurt. “Whilst I am devastated to say that the building itself has been completely destroyed, I am deeply relieved, grateful and proud to confirm that no staff or customers were harmed, and everybody went home safely,” he said. McMahon added that the club intends to reopen in the future.
Police have also confirmed they are investigating the Pink Punters blaze alongside a separate fire at a nearby church, which occurred a day earlier and a short distance away. “At the moment we are keeping an open mind and investigating the incidents in conjunction with each other due to proximity in location and time,” a Thames Valley Police spokesperson said.
Scene was founded in Brighton in 1993, at a time when news stories about Pride protests were considered radical.
Since then, Scene has remained proudly independent, building a platform for queer voices. Every subscription helps us to report on the stories that matter to LGBTQ+ people across the UK and beyond.
Your support funds our journalists and contributes to Pride Community Foundation’s grant-making and policy work.
Member discussion