Arson investigation launched into fire at Sunderland boxing gym as community rallies around volunteers

The incident happened on Easter Sunday – April 12 – at the Sunderland East End ABC in Robinson Terrace, Hendon.

Crews from Sunderland Central and Farringdon Community fire stations were called to the building – a two-storey building with an adjoining flat – shortly before 7pm on Sunday.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) confirmed that the cause of the fire is under investigation, while police officers launch an arson inquiry.

A spokeswoman for the force told the Echo: “At 6.50pm on Sunday (April 12) we received a report of a fire at an address on Robinson Terrace, Sunderland.

“Emergency services attended and fortunately no one was in the address at the time of the fire.

“Inquiries into this incident are ongoing, but it is currently being treated as arson.

“Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police by using the Tell Us Something page on our website, quoting reference number 926 120420.”

In the aftermath of the blaze, which left the building smoke damaged and destroyed the rear door of the premises, families who use the gym’s facilities rallied around the volunteers who give their time to train children across the city.

Dave Robson, club secretary, told the Echo that the team was “overwhelmed” by the public’s generosity and support – which also saw an online fundraiser set up to help with the cost of restoring the gym after the coronavirus lockdown is lifted.

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