Today marks the 35th anniversary since the Valley Parade fire disaster in Bradford.
On May 11 1985, Bradford hosted Lincoln FC for a Third Division match at the ground. Bradford already secured the league title and the league trophy was paraded before the game kicked off. Around 11,000 spectators went to watch the match, almost double the season’s average attendance.
As the first half came to a close, with the score at 0-0, a fire broke out in the old wooden main stand. The stand, coincidentally, was to be demolished just two days later. A spectator failed to put out their cigarette which slipped between the cracks in the wooden floorboards.
The fire rapidly grew. Within minutes, the entire stand became engulfed by flames. 56 people died in the blaze and a further 256 spectators injured.
The anniversary would usually be commemorated with a memorial in Bradford. However, this changed due to restrictions on social gatherings amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Today, communities from Bradford and Lincoln found alternative ways to remember those spectators who died in the disaster in 1985.
Valley Parade Fire Disaster: 35th Anniversary
Online Memorial
In normal circumstances, thousands of fans and people from Bradford would gather at Centenary Square and pay their respects to those who died 35 years ago. However, the service moved to an online stream via Twitter so people could still take part and remember the lives of the 56 fans who lost their lives.
Numerous videos broadcasted on the club’s Twitter feed, as well as the council’s social media accounts. They showed readings and prayers, while Lord Mayor of Bradford, Doreen Lee, also took part.
Bishop of Bradford, Toby Howarth, spoke during the online service. He explained the importance to continue the commemorations in the current circumstances.
He Said: “In this new country there are still points of reference for us in Bradford and this memorial is one of the most powerful.
“As horrific and dark as that moment was, there were also quite extraordinary points of light – acts of bravery, heroism, care, compassion and faith that also remain. We need those reference points because we are now in a time of darkness as well.”
Tributes From the Community
In addition to high-profile members of the community, many others also paid their respects this morning.
Club chaplain Oliver Evans said: “This fire forms part of the narrative of who we are as a city and so many people and now we are in similar times where we see the very best of people in Bradford.”
Former Bradford manager, Chris Kamara also paid tribute on social media. He Said: “Today though we should remember the 56 people who went to watch a football match between Bradford City and Lincoln City but never returned home – RIP the 56 who died, gone but must never be forgotten”
Club representatives placed Wreaths from Bradford and Lincoln at Valley Parade earlier today, now named Utilita Energy Stadium.
Main Photo
