Arson Suspect Taken Into Custody Following Fire at LGBT+ Nightspot

Thames Valley Police have arrested a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger lives after a fire broke out at Pink Punters, a packed LGBT+ club in Fenny Stratford. The incident occurred in the early hours, prompting an emergency evacuation as flames spread swiftly through the premises.

Witness Describes ‘Surreal’ Moments of Chaos

Revellers at the venue, a frequent spot for Molly Firman from Clophill, were caught off guard by the sudden alarm. ‘Out of nowhere, staff and security started screaming, “you need to get out now,”‘ she said in a

quote>. ‘It just didn’t seem real in the moment. Am I dreaming this? Is it actually happening? Before you knew it, it was just intense.’

Firman, who visits the club regularly, was with friends when the fire alarm blared at around 2 AM. ‘It was just a normal night—drinks, music, no problems—then after two in the morning, me and my girls were outside the cocktail bar… and the fire alarm was going off,’ she added. ‘From the road, it felt like minutes passed, but the fire expanded rapidly.’

Fire Service Response and Ongoing Measures

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service arrived at 02:09 BST on Watling Street, deploying 12 emergency units to manage the blaze. A spokesperson noted that crews would stay for a ‘considerable amount of time,’ addressing hotspots and ensuring the area was fully secured. Police also warned of extended road closures in the aftermath.

Community Impact and Owner’s Concerns

Local residents and club employees expressed deep distress over the event. Aaron Harding, a cleaner at Pink Punters for five months, described the scene as ‘devastating.’ ‘I’m lost for words,’ he said. ‘Neither I nor my partner, who works behind the bar, were there on Saturday night. I can’t even imagine what the owners are feeling.’

Harding highlighted the club’s inclusive atmosphere. ‘They welcome everyone, no matter your gender, race, or ethnicity. It’s devastating to see such a place affected.’

Resident’s Emotional Reflection

Colin Ruggles, 61, who lives opposite the club, recounted waking to the smell of smoke at 3 AM. ‘I opened the lounge curtains and was blasted with blue lights,’ he explained. ‘When I put my head out the window, what a devastating scene I came across.’

Ruggles emphasized the club’s role as a safe haven for the LGBT community. ‘So many people go to Pinks, so many work there. The LGBT community are going to be devastated—where else can they go within Milton Keynes to feel safe?’ he said.

Political Response and Calls for Support

Labour MP for Buckingham and Bletchley, Callum Anderson, voiced ‘deeply concerned’ remarks about the incident. ‘Whoever has been involved in this disgusting event should feel the full force of the law,’ he stated. ‘I will be asking my team to work closely with police and the venue’s owners to ensure the community is properly supported.’

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