Appeal for information after arson attack devastates Reading gym - we offer £3,000 reward

We're urging the public to help identify two people who may have information about the incident after a deliberate arson attack gutted a popular Reading gym, causing hundreds of thousands of pounds in damage and forcing the health club to close for extensive repairs.

In the early hours of Friday 30 January, two individuals forced their way into The Atrium Health Club on Armour Hill, Tilehurst. Frames from CCTV show the pair entering the building, spreading an accelerant across the floor and setting it alight before leaving the scene. The resulting blaze destroyed large parts of the premises, shutting down classes, fitness sessions, and community programmes relied on by local residents.

Investigators are exploring whether the fire may be connected to organised criminal activity involving fitness centres in the wider area, raising concerns about further potential attacks.

Do you have information but don't want to speak directly to the police? You can tell us what you know and remain 100% anonymous. Guaranteed.

Call Crimestoppers free, any time, on 0800 555 111, or complete our quick and secure online form here on our website:

Give information anonymously

“This was a deliberate and reckless attack that destroyed a much‑loved local business and could easily have put lives at risk. We know speaking up about crime involving drugs or organised groups can feel intimidating — but Crimestoppers offers a completely safe and anonymous way to share what you know.

“You may think what you’ve seen or heard is insignificant, but it could stop another attack. Silence allows dangerous people to act again. Your information could make all the difference.”

Beth Simpson, Crimestoppers South Central West Regional Manager

Anonymity

Crimestoppers guarantees complete anonymity, meaning that people who call or contact us online can pass on what they know without ever giving any personal details. Computer IP addresses are never traced. Telephone calls are never recorded, there is no caller line display and no 1471 facility.

Claiming a reward

The reward will only be payable for information passed directly to Crimestoppers and not to the police. A reward code must be asked for when calling our charity on 0800 555 111. If you contact us via our online form anonymously, the 'keeping in contact’ facility must be used and a reward code must be requested on your initial contact.
 
More details about the rewards process – at the heart of which is ensuring you stay 100% anonymous - can be found here.

31 March 2026