40 Years On: Walking for the 56

On May 11, 1985, a day that should have been a celebration turned into one of the darkest tragedies in British football history. During a match at Valley Parade, a devastating fire engulfed the main stand. In just four horrifying minutes, the flames claimed the lives of 56 people — supporters who had come to cheer their team and never returned home.

This year, 2025, marks the 40th anniversary of the Bradford City fire. Four decades may have passed, but the pain, the memory, and the lessons must never fade. We remember not only the lives lost but the countless others forever affected — families torn apart, survivors scarred physically and emotionally, and a city that still carries the weight of that day.

The fire happened before I was born, but its impact still echoes today. I’ve grown up hearing the stories, seeing the memorials, and feeling the weight of a tragedy that shaped a community. And this year, I wanted to do something to honour those who were lost — something meaningful to show that they are not forgotten.

Starting on June 1st and continuing through to November 7th, I’ll be walking 2 million steps — that’s nearly 14,000 steps a day for 5 weeks and 6 days. Every step is a tribute to the 56 who never made it home, and a reminder of why fire safety, community support, and remembrance matter.

I’m doing this to raise awareness, to honour their memory, and to raise funds for causes that reflect the lessons and the legacy of that day.

Whether you choose to donate, spread the word, or simply take a moment to remember, your support means everything.

We walk because we remember.

We walk because they matter.

We walk for the 56.

#ForThe56 #BradfordCityFire #NeverForget

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