10th anniversary of the Clutha tragedy in Glasgow

A memorial service was held this morning (Wednesday 29 November) to mark the 10th anniversary of the Clutha disaster.

The service was held by Police Scotland at Police Scotland Headquarters in Tulliallan, alongside the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Scottish Ambulance Service and Glasgow City Council to pay their respects. 

At the ceremony, a wreath was laid on behalf of all emergency services.

SFRS Assistant Chief Officer David Farries, who represented the Service at the event, said: “Our thoughts will always remain with the families and friends of everyone affected by this tragedy, as well as the wider Glasgow community.

“Emergency services demonstrated their professionalism, strength and dedication that evening as they worked together to help all of those impacted by this event.”

At 10.22pm on Friday 29 November 2013, SFRS provided a significant operational response to the helicopter crash at the Clutha pub on Stockwell Street, Glasgow. 

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Stephen Wright, who is currently Head of Service Delivery for the West of Scotland, was part of the specialist urban search and rescue (USAR) crew mobilised to the scene.

He said: “Ten years ago today, more than 125 firefighters were dispatched to the scene and worked tirelessly to rescue patrons inside and stabilise the Clutha building.

“The bravery of not only emergency service personnel but the many people of Glasgow who helped in the rescue effort and in the aftermath was incredible.

“My thoughts will forever remain with those who have lost a loved one in this tragic event.” 

Many Glasgow civilians were injured and the tragedy claimed the lives of Gary Arthur, Robert Jenkins, Samuel McGhee, Colin Gibson, John McGarrigle, Mark O’Prey and Joe Cusker as well as Police Scotland pilot Captain David Traill and his crew, PC Tony Collins and PC Kirsty Nelis.