Burns unit visit part of 56for56 appeal

Proceeds raised for the 56for56 appeal, organised by the firefighters based at Bradford Fire Station, will go towards the Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU), also known as the Bradford Burns Unit.

The PSBRU was founded by Professor David Sharpe following the fire at Bradford City’s Valley Parade home on May 11, 1985, which claimed the lives of 56 people, including 54 Bradford City fans and two supporters from their opponents that day – Lincoln City. A further 258 people were injured. 

A group of crew members had a tour of the PSBRU’s facilities. They were also given an insight into the Unit’s research work, including the Bradford Sling, invented by Professor Sharpe, which revolutionised the management of hand injuries worldwide.

The team are organising events over the next few months to raise funds for the appeal.

A 75-mile walk from Lincoln City’s Sincil Bank ground to the University of Bradford Stadium sees crew members from WYFRS join counterparts from Lincoln South Fire Stations. After setting off from Lincoln at 9am on Friday 4 April, the team will reach the University of Bradford Stadium the following day in time to meet fans at Bradford City’s home Sky Bet League 2 match against Crewe Alexandra. 

Other fundraising events taking place include bucket collections at the University of Bradford Stadium and a charity football match with a fire service team facing a squad of Bradford City legends. A black-tie fundraising evening, featuring special guest, former Bradford City striker Dean Windass, will be held in June. A Bradford fire station open day on Sunday 18 May and a fundraising car wash will also aim to raise money for the appeal. 

Professor Ajay L Mahajan, Director of Research at the PSBRU, said: “If you look back at the time when the incident happened, three main services were involved – police, fire and health. We have always maintained a good relationship with them all and the community over the years, remembering the 56 at the memorial service each year. 

“It’s really nice of them [the fire service] to come up with these fundraising activities this year. It just goes to show that the support has not faded away.”

The PSBRU is a partnership between the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI) and the Centre for Skin Sciences at the University of Bradford, making the city a pioneer in the field of burns research. This research unit is now internationally renowned and is recognised as one of the leading units of its kind in the country.

Dr Kirsten Riches-Suman, Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the University of Bradford, said: “It was great to have a chance to sit down and talk about the impact of the Burns Unit, the work we have done and how proud we are of it. I always find it really rewarding to talk about it.”

Watch Commander Phil Warden, from Bradford Fire Station, said: “It was great for us all to come along to the Burns Unit, so we all understand what we are fundraising for. 

“Being a lifelong Bradford City fan, I understand the gravitas behind the work they [Burns Unit] are doing here. 

“The campaign is 56for56, but there are many more who are affected by the fire, such as family and friends.”

Go to justgiving.com/page/56for56 or text 10Bradford or 20Bradford to 70470 to make a donation.

The PSBRU is immensely grateful for all the support it receives from those passionate about their vital work. If you are interested in supporting in other ways, in addition to donating to this campaign, consider leaving a gift in your will.

For many, a gift in their will is the most meaningful gift they will ever make. A legacy gift, no matter the size, will help continue the essential work of the PSBRU.

To discuss further supporting this special cause, contact Philip Fisher in the University's Development Team on [email protected]