Owner of Pink Punters voices sadness after fire destroys club but vows to return

The owner of the Pink Punters nightclub in Milton Keynes has voiced his sadness after fire destroyed the building, but vowed to bring the popular space back in some form.

Frank McMahon made the statement on social media yesterday (26/04) as a reaction to a major fire that broke out at the popular LGBTQ+ nightclub in the Fenny Stratford area of the city in the early hours of Sunday morning, and which destroyed large parts of the building.

Thames Valley Police confirmed a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, though as of writing has not been formally charged.

Talking about the incident in isolation, McMahon voiced his gratitude to staff at the nightclub for evacuating the site, with no injuries or fatalities reported.

McMahon said, “Shortly after 2am this morning, the automatic fire alarm alerted staff to a possible fire at Pink Punters. Our Fire Wardens responded immediately and quickly discovered a fire on an outside balcony.

“The General Manager ordered the immediate evacuation of the club as fire crews raced to the scene, with everyone safely evacuated on their arrival, their focus was on the building which was now well ablaze as the fire and smoke spread very quickly.

“This evening, 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.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank my entire workforce. They acted calmly, professionally and effectively in the most serious of circumstances. At Pink Punters, we have always maintained the highest standards in Training, Equipment and Procedures. Years of practising fire drills, over and over again, paid off when it mattered most. I cannot put into words how proud I am of everyone involved.”

McMahon also thanked people who sent in well wishes, reflected on the legacy of the club’s 25 years in operation, and vowed to bring back the nightclub down the line.

He added, “My family and I have received literally thousands of messages from well-wishers. Thank you all for your concern, love and support. Please understand that it will be difficult for us to respond to so many messages individually, but every single one means a great deal to us.

“My family, Frank, Mary, Michael, Ainya and Dean took over this site 36 years ago and began building a nightclub business that has meant so much to so many people. From the Kilrush days through to Pink Punters, and with Pink Punters having celebrated its Silver Anniversary only last year and still going from strength to strength, this place has been part of our lives, our family and our community for more than three decades.

“Pink Punters is more than a building. It is an institution, built over many years by a wide family of staff, customers, friends and supporters. Many people have visited the site today to see the extent of the damage for themselves. We do not yet know the full extent, as the fire is still being dealt with, but we will keep people updated when we are able to do so.

“Worldwide, nightclub fires have too often resulted in a devastating human toll. Tonight, we can all be profoundly thankful that this was not the case here. The building has been lost, but lives were protected, and that matters more than anything.

“I also recognise that many people are deeply affected by what has happened. Pink Punters has been one big family for many years, and I know this tragedy will be felt by staff, customers, former staff, regulars, friends, performers, suppliers and many others who have been part of our story. Please know that my thoughts are with all of you as well. I am truly sorry for the sadness this has caused.

“Once again, thank you to our staff, our customers, the emergency services and everyone who has reached out with kindness today. We are heartbroken, but we are also grateful. Grateful that everyone is safe. Grateful for the people who acted so quickly. Grateful for the love being shown to us.

“Pink Punters has always been about people, not just bricks and mortar. The building may be gone, but the family, the memories, the spirit and the love remain. And let me say this clearly: Pink Punters will be back.”