Three children enjoying an otherwise serene evening at the beach on Friday wound up in the hospital in serious condition suffering from severe burns.

The incident took place at around 7pm in a corner of Birzebbuga’s Pretty Bay beach that is particularly popular with young children and their families. Spectators were also gathered in the area to watch a hip-hop dancing competition.

But the evening’s usual summer tranquillity was suddenly shattered when flames began shooting down from a balcony overlooking the crowded area, just above a crowded take-away restaurant, and children’s screams filled the air.

Police on the scene found that a 39-year-old Italian resident of Birzebbuga had been barbecuing on his balcony when flames from the barbecue hit the three children– aged 12, 10 and five – who had been playing below.

According to eyewitnesses speaking to this newspaper, the barbecue was being ignited with lighting fluid while simultaneously being vigorously fanned. This, the eyewitnesses told this newspaper, caused the flames to shoot down from the first-floor balcony and into the area below which was, as is the case every summer evening, crowded with children.

While all three children were reported by the police to have been seriously injured, one child in particular suffered serious facial injuries. Others suffered burns to their faces, arms, legs and torsos.

Until an ambulance and police arrived on site, members of the public gave assistance – in particular a Muslim family who rushed to the children and provided first aid.

Police investigations are ongoing.