Fire causes Thatcham Town Southern League postponement

Thatcham Town’s Southern League Division One South fixture with Bideford on Tuesday night was postponed before kick-off after a fire broke out in one of the floodlights at Waterside Park.

The Kingfishers were due to host Bideford – the third attempt to get the fixture played – on Tuesday 25th February, when the power went out at the ground at approximately 7pm, 45 minutes before kick-off.

Supporter Owen Armstrong told Football in Berkshire: “The lights went off in the clubhouse, they came back on and the fire happened there and then.”

Watch as the emergency services arrive at Thatcham Town, and the aftermath of the fire

It is understood the only damage to the ground was to one of the eight floodlight pylons on the side of the ground with the main stand, and the fire service was quickly on the scene.

Thatcham chairman Paul Ayres described the situation as ‘unbelievable’!’.

He said: “This season feels cursed, we’ve had so many postponements for various reasons, but never did we think we’d see a floodlight fail and catch fire!

“A huge thanks to the fire brigade for their quick response in extinguishing the fire. Luckily, everyone is safe, but unfortunately, this is another unexpected cost for the club.”

Ayres made a request for support for the Kingfishers who are battling the drop in the division. “If there are any floodlight specialist electricians out there who could lend us a hand, we’d be more than happy to return the favour in any way we can,” he said.

“Please get in touch if you can help—let’s get this sorted and keep football going at Waterside Park!”

If you are able to support Thatcham Town in any way following the fire, please contact Paul Ayres on 07717 858292.

Video supplied by Owen Armstrong.