A devastating club fire in March 2019, which resulted in the deaths of two men, has been attributed to multiple safety failures, according to an inquest held at Preston Coroner's Court. John McCartney, aged 60, and 70-year-old Philip "Tony" Townsend succumbed to smoke inhalation resulting from a blaze at the Gordon Working Men's Club in Morecambe. This tragic incident was traced back to a locked emergency exit, deficiencies in the evacuation procedures, and inadequate checks on heating systems.
During the inquest, it was revealed that John McCartney had been seen playing with a lighter near a gas heater and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) canister shortly before the fire broke out. Witnesses described how McCartney, in a state of panic, attempted to adjust the valve on the canister when it ignited. Surveillance footage depicted the moment the canister erupted, sending smoke billowing through the club.
The mother-son duo managing the club, Heather and Callum Goffin, were subsequently convicted in January 2023 for multiple breaches of fire safety regulations, failing to recognize the inherent dangers posed by the LPG unit, and being incapable of ensuring the safe evacuation of patrons. Their negligence was underscored by the inquest findings, emphasizing that fire safety procedures were woefully inadequate, and exits were improperly maintained.
The chaos ensued as flames spread towards the club's main entrance, prompting a rush for the emergency exit located in the snooker room. However, panic escalated when it was revealed that the door leading to an exit alley was locked, trapping patrons inside. The few who managed to escape did so through the kitchen area. Emergency services arrived approximately ten minutes post-incident, but, unfortunately, they were unable to revive Mr. Townsend, found between two doors, while Mr. McCartney was declared dead at a local hospital.
Furthermore, a fire safety inspection conducted three years prior in 2016 had flagged the use of the same type of heater and gas canister that would later cause the fatal fire. Despite this, the Goffins’ claim of using the heater on a temporary basis at the time of the incident raised considerable concerns about negligence in adhering to safety protocols.
The coroner, Christopher Long, has mandated Lancashire Fire and Rescue to respond within 28 days to concerns that a similar heating system led to the disastrous incident years later, highlighting ongoing lapses in fire safety that potentially endanger lives.
As community discussions on fire safety and emergency preparedness continue, this tragic case serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of adhering to stringent safety measures to prevent future disasters.
