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Bradford remembers fire victims

Image: Bradford: Memorial service

Bradford came to a standstill to remember the 56 people who died 24 years ago in the Valley Parade fire.

Memorial service for Valley Parade disaster

Bradford came to a standstill for one minute at 11am on Monday to remember the 56 people who died 24 years ago in the Valley Parade fire. On 11th May, 1985, tragedy struck during Bradford City's game against Lincoln City when a fire broke out in the main stand shortly before half-time. Within five minutes the entire stand was engulfed in flames with 54 Bantams fans and two Lincoln supporters losing their lives. Bradford manager Stuart McCall was on the field during the fateful game with his father, Andy, among the scores of people who were left badly injured by the blaze. Civic dignitaries and members of the public came together in Centenary Square for the service with the flag at City Hall flying at half-mast. Lord Mayor of Bradford, councillor Howard Middleton said: "We must reflect and remember all the people who were affected by this disaster. "This is an incredibly significant date for the people and city of Bradford to come together and remember."