A beloved seaside funfair in South Shields has been left devastated after a major fire tore through the site on Boxing Day evening, causing significant damage and destroying a popular attraction.
Emergency Services Battle Overnight Inferno
The incident unfolded at the Ocean Beach Pleasure Park Funfair on December 26, 2025. Emergency services were called to the scene on Sea Road at around 7pm after reports of a building roof being alight.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service launched a substantial response, deploying six fire engines, specialist appliances, and three officers to tackle the flames. Northumbria Police also attended, cordoning off the area and advising local residents to avoid the vicinity and keep their doors and windows closed.
The fire crews worked through the night, with the incident not being concluded until approximately 3:30am on December 27. The North East Ambulance Service was initially alerted but was later stood down.
Popular Attraction Reduced to Charred Remains
Images from the scene the following morning revealed the extensive damage caused by the raging blaze. The most significant loss was the Dinosaur Cove attraction at South Shields Pleasure Beach, which was mostly destroyed in the fire.
Photographs showed the charred skeletal remains of the building, with the roof severely compromised. A police cordon remained in place throughout Saturday as authorities began their investigation into the cause of the fire.
Investigation Launched into Cause of Blaze
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. A spokesperson for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that an investigation is now underway, supported by partner agencies.
"We will be supporting partner agencies with the investigation but cannot at this time confirm the cause of the fire," the spokesperson said. "We would like to thank Northumbria Police and North East Ambulance Service for their assistance."
The future of the funfair, a staple of the local tourism and entertainment scene, now hangs in the balance as the community comes to terms with the Boxing Day disaster.
