Supporters thanked as burns unit fundraising appeal reaches £304,000

The appeal, which ran alongside the 30th anniversary of the Bradford City fire disaster, set a target of £300,000 to be raised.

A cheque for the final amount will be presented to Burns Unit director Ajay Mahajan on the Valley Parade pitch at half-time during City’s game against Oldham Athletic on August 27.

It will be presented by Rachel Thorpe, of Bradford City Community Foundation. A Foundation spokesman said: “Rachel will present this cheque on behalf of all Bradford City supporters, the club, and well-wishers everywhere, who organised events and raised funds to back the appeal.

“Rachel will be accompanied by young City fans, to recognise the special contribution they made to the Commemoration.”

Rachel said: “The amount of fundraising people have done all over the country is inspiring, and the incredible total raised by donors will hopefully ensure the future of the PSBRU.”

Also, Mr Mahajan will present a specially-commissioned artwork - composed by himself - to the Premier League’s Peter McCormick OBE, in recognition of the support given by the League to the 30th anniversary commemoration.

The artwork - painted by Bradford artist Paul Town, with contributions from Turnstylewear and Embroidery in House - will go to Premier League headquarters in London.

Mr Mahajan said: “The funds raised will go a long way to secure the future of the unit and support the work we do. I would like to convey my heartfelt appreciation and thanks to all our supporters.”

Mr McCormick said: “The fire was one of the most terrible tragedies ever to strike English football. It will be remembered forever by all football fans not only for the loss of life, but also for the many acts of bravery by the emergency services and the fans themselves and for the outstanding work of the Burns Unit. The Premier League was determined to support the 30th anniversary commemoration.”