Bradford City AFC will host its annual memorial fixture - marking the 39th anniversary of the Valley Parade Fire Disaster - this Saturday, when Newport County visit the University of Bradford Stadium.
City will take on the Exiles on the final day of the Sky Bet League Two season, with action set to get underway from 3.00pm.
On the day, everyone at Valley Parade will collectively pause to remember those affected by the tragedy on 11th May 1985, which took the lives of 56 supporters and left hundreds more with with life-changing injuries, as the Bantams welcomed Lincoln City to West Yorkshire in a Third Division encounter.
As both City and Newport players take to the field, a rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ will be played, as both club captains lay wreaths on the field. A commemorative ’56’ ribbon will appear on the walk-out jackets of each of the Bantams’ players, with these garments to then be auctioned off in aid of Bradford’s Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU), formed in the wake of the disaster.
A minute’s silence will be observed - having been introduced by club chaplain, Pastor Oliver Evans - with players stood around a giant flag on the field which pays tribute to the 56 lives lost.
At the half-time interval, Georgia Thornton of the BCAFC Ribbons appeal will speak with club pitch announcer Darren Harper about her continued fundraising work for the PSBRU, by selling hand-crafted claret and amber ribbons. Supporters are urged to make a donation and wear a ribbon to aid her fantastic efforts.
Throughout the day, buckets will be carried around the University of Bradford Stadium and inside concourses, collecting donations for the PSBRU, with fans again asked to please give what they can, and ensure they bring cash with them to the game, for a cause extremely close to the club.
To secure your ticket for the encounter, please CLICK HERE, or to purchase an iFollow video match pass, please CLICK HERE.
