Memorial service marks 40 years since Bradford City fire

Memorial service marks 40 years since Bradford City fire

Rachel Russell & Cathy Killick, reporting for BBC News in Yorkshire, covered the 40th-anniversary memorial service held in honor of the victims of the Bradford City fire. Friends and relatives of those affected gathered at the Bradford City Fire Memorial sculpture in Centenary Square at 11:00 BST to pay their respects. The City of Bradford Brass Band performed a moving rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, followed by the tolling of the City Hall bell 56 times, representing the number of people who lost their lives in the tragedy. A wreath was also placed on behalf of King Charles III.

Mayor of Bradford, Beverley Mullaney, emphasized the significance of the service in bringing the community together to remember and honor those impacted by the events of May 11, 1985. Canon Pastor Oliver Evans, the chaplain of Bradford City AFC, delivered a welcoming address, while Reverend Andy Bowerman, Dean of Bradford, offered a brief reflection during the service. The choice of You’ll Never Walk Alone for the musical tribute was a poignant reminder of the song’s connection to the tragedy.

Following the memorial service, attendees had the opportunity to visit the City Hall, where a memorial bell from the first fire engine to arrive at the scene on that fateful day was on display. The bell, donated to the city by the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, serves as a somber reminder of the events that unfolded during the Bradford City fire. The disaster occurred during Bradford City’s match against Lincoln City, claiming the lives of 54 Bradford City fans and two visiting Lincoln supporters, while also injuring over 260 individuals.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, a fundraising effort was launched, resulting in a charity single featuring a supergroup of musicians and celebrities. The song, a new version of the classic terrace anthem, reached the number one spot on the charts, with all proceeds going towards supporting the families affected by the fire. The memorial service and subsequent events served as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the lasting impact of the Bradford City fire on the community

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