Victims of Bradford Fire Remembered 31 Years on From Stadium Tragedy

A memorial service has been held in Bradford today to mark the 31st anniversary of the fire at Valley Parade that left 56 fans dead and hundreds more injured.

The blaze broke out during a game between newly crowned Division Three champions Bradford City and Lincoln City. It was the clubs' final fixture of the 1984-85 campaign, with Bradford receiving their trophy before kick-off, but was interrupted when the first signs of fire were reported shortly before half-time.

This quickly spread through the antiquated stadium, with the wooden stands and roof catching alight, causing huge panic. Some fans died as a result of fire, while others were crushed to death while attempting to escape the blaze. 54 Bradford supporters and two Lincoln fans lost their lives; more than 260 more were injured.

New legislation controlling safety at stadia was introduced following the fire, though further tragedies would follow. The Heysel Stadium disaster cost 39 people their lives just two weeks after Bradford, with Hillsborough following four years later and claiming 96 lives.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Joanne Dodds, was among those to attend today, along with the Mayor and Mayoress of Lincoln.

Bradford City FC – who are currently preparing to contest the League One playoffs – will open one of their stands today, allowing fans a chance to pay their respects at Valley Parade.