'Rogue' firework suspected of causing Preston bowling club blaze

A "rogue" firework could have caused a late night blaze which destroyed the bowling pavilion at a popular Preston club.
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Officials of the Thurlby Club in Egerton Road, Ashton say they are baffled by the fire which caused up to £15,000 of damage to the wooden building alongside their bowling green.

Firefighters were called at around 1am on Saturday after neighbours were woken by the smell of smoke and called 999.

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"It couldn't have been an electrical fault because we've been shut for months and the power was switched off," said club secretary Norman Maclean.

Club secretary Norman Maclean surveys the damage.Club secretary Norman Maclean surveys the damage.
Club secretary Norman Maclean surveys the damage.

"It could have been vandals, although I wouldn't imagine there would be a lot of people around at one in the morning, especially as it was freezing cold.

"The only other explanation is it could have been a rogue firework, because I gather there had been some going off earlier that night.

"We just don't know how it happened. But however it started it has left the place in a right mess."

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In addition to the pavilion, the blaze destroyed a brand new compressor, catering equipment, a fridge freezer and crown green bowling equipment including jacks, tapes and measures.

Committee member Martin Hill examines the charred remains of bowling equipment.Committee member Martin Hill examines the charred remains of bowling equipment.
Committee member Martin Hill examines the charred remains of bowling equipment.

Committee members have vowed to replace the building. "That will be at least £6,000 on its own," said Norman. "With all the rest of the stuff it's going to come to between £10,000 and £15,000.

"Fortunately we're insured. And fortunately it's not the bowling season."

The Thurlby Club is also known as the Railway Club from the days when it was the social club for British Rail workers.

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