This Month in History: The Valley Parade Fire, 11th May 1985

May 2025 Edition

On 11^th May 1985, Bradford became the site of one of the most harrowing tragedies in British football history.

During a match between Bradford City and Lincoln City at Valley Parade stadium, a devastating fire erupted in the main stand. Sparked by a discarded cigarette that ignited rubbish beneath the wooden structure, the blaze spread with alarming speed, claiming 56 lives and injuring over 260 spectators. The fire took hold within minutes, offering little chance for escape and placing immense pressure on emergency responders.

This catastrophe led to sweeping reforms in stadium safety across the UK, including a ban on wooden stands and the enforcement of stricter fire prevention measures. At the Bradford Police Museum, we remember those who lost their lives and pay tribute to the bravery of the emergency services and members of the public who acted with extraordinary courage that day.

Among those recognised for their heroism were four police officers - Constables David Britton and John Richard Ingham, along with Chief Inspectors Charles Frederick Mawson and Terence Michael Slocombe - and two spectators, Richard Gough and David Hustler, who received the Queen’s Gallantry Medal.

Additionally, PCs Peter Donald Barrett and David Charles Midgley, along with spectators Michael William Bland and Timothy Peter Leigh, were honoured with the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct. In total, 28 police officers and 22 supporters - each credited with saving at least one life - were formally recognised with commendations or bravery awards.