Sheffield's Showroom Cinema bosses 'devastated' by costly arson attack

A gang of yobs set fire to two sun parasols outside the cinema on Paternoster Row at about 2.30am yesterday (Wednesday).

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service are treating the blaze as arson, and bosses at the arthouse venue – Sheffield’s only independent cinema – said it has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

In a statement, they said: “Over the last few weeks many of you will have enjoyed our wonderful new terrace.

“We were devastated that at 2.30am three young people – two males and one female – decided to set fire to the umbrellas, which in turn damaged the wooden tables and the deck itself.

“The damage will run into the thousands. Thankfully, no-one or our beautiful 1930s building were damaged.”

They added: “What drives someone to commit such a wanton act of vandalism?

“On watching the CCTV, they only stopped long enough to see it had all caught light – they just walked off and left it.

“We are cleaning up and will bring it back to its sparkling glory soon. In the meantime we are open and welcome you all.”

A crew from Sheffield Central Fire Station were called out to tackle the blaze.

In a statement, the brigade said: “Upon arrival they found two sun parasols on fire outside a local cinema.

“They were almost out by the time the crew arrived, with firefighters using a jet to ensure they were fully extinguished.

“The crew left shortly after, around 2.49am, but it is thought this fire was started deliberately.”

The terrace, which is an extension of the Showroom’s popular café bar, was created as part of a refurbishment programme that started when the cinema marked its 20th anniversary in 2015.