A large fire in Northern Ireland completely destroyed Carrickfergus Sailing Club’s clubhouse on Friday night.
The fire broke out at around 23.30 and spread quickly due in part to high winds, however Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) were able to prevent it from spreading to other buildings.
According to the BBC there were a number of people in the building when the fire started, some of whom attempted to extinguish it before it could spread beyond the source – believed to be an electrical fault.
NIFRS said that three main jets, a foam jet and an aerial machine were used to extinguish the fire.
Roger Woodward, Commodore for Carrickfergus Sailing Club, said in a statement he had been “overwhelmed” by offers of support from members and other organisations in the nearby vicinity.
He said that the clubhouse had been condemned as “an area of danger” by building control while the boat shed was also off limits “as it is at risk of damage if the clubhouse gable end collapses.”
The clubhouse had stood at its present location for 35 years.
Thanks to some of the support the club received they have been able to hold competitions and sea cadet training this week already.