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2w ago

Bradford City Marks 40th Anniversary of Stadium Fire Tragedy

Commemorations honor the 56 victims, highlight survivor resilience, and reflect on safety and medical advancements shaped by the 1985 disaster.

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A devastating fire rips through the main stand at Bradford City’s Valley Parade on May 11, 1985
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In May 1985, a stand at Valley Parade went up in flames — 56 people died in the disaster

Overview

  • The Bradford City stadium fire of May 11, 1985, claimed 56 lives and injured over 265 when a wooden stand ignited within minutes during a football match.
  • The 40th anniversary is being marked with memorial events, including a ceremony at Valley Parade and a BBC2 documentary featuring survivor and responder interviews.
  • Survivor Matthew Wildman continues to fundraise for the University of Bradford’s Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit, which was established in response to the disaster.
  • The tragedy led to significant safety reforms, including a ban on new wooden grandstands and advancements in fire safety protocols worldwide.
  • Bradford City FC’s promotion to League One coincided with the annual memorial fixture, uniting the club and community in remembrance and celebration.