BRADFORD CITY FIRE VICTIMSOn Saturday 11 May 1985, 56 supporters of Bradford City lost their lives as fire spread through the Main Stand at Valley Parade.A further 265 people were injured in what became the worst fire disaster in the history of British football, and one of the worst in sport.Such was the shock felt around the world that the Queen, the Pope, the Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and many church leaders and political figures across the world sent messages of condolence.The day started off as a celebration when Bradford City captain Peter Jackson was presented with the Third Division Championship trophy after securing promotion to League Division Two.The match against Lincoln City was abandoned just before half time with the score at 0-0. Twenty-two spectators later presented with bravery awards for their help in rescuing people from the smoke and flames.One man, Martin Fletcher, lost his dad John, 34, his grandfather Eddie, 63, his uncle Peter, 32 and his younger brother Andrew, 11. He was later to witness the Hillsborough disaster, too, four years later.On the 17th anniversary of the disaster, a memorial with the names of those who lost their lives was dedicated at the new entrance to the redeveloped Sunwin stand.
Keep me informed of updates
