Eeyup!

I'm running the Great North Run this September 20th and it will mean a lot to me to know I have your support as I make my way round the half marathon distance in the warm Northern sunshine.  As I know a lot of you will want to donate to my chosen charity, here's why I have chosen the Bradford Burns Unit Appeal ...

The Bradford Burns Unit was set up 25 years ago following the Valley Parade Fire Disaster on 11 May 1985 in which 56 people died and 200 were injured.  The Unit was established in the aftermath of the disaster with money from public donations.  Since then it has completed invaluable and pioneering work in the field of plastic surgery and burns injury.  I remember handing over just short of £35 to the original Disaster appeal, which represented the very best fundraising efforts of a 10 year old deeply affected by events that day.

Me and my Dad had arrived especially early for that last game of the season because of its significance - we queued for ages to try and get a seat in the Main Stand so I'd get the very best view of Jacko lifting the Third Division trophy and the players lap of honour.  But the stand was declared full just as we got to the turnstile, so we made our way back down behind the Bradford End, into the Midland Road and to the same spot we had stood in all season - directly opposite where the fire started.  I will never forget what then happened.

As a Bradford City supporter, I've always contributed to the work of the Unit.  It is now time to make another donation and support the latest appeal to raise £100k to secure its immediate future.  It seems fitting that I kick things off by matching my original donation and would be really grateful if you could find it in you to donate a little too.

Thanks a lot!

Bob

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