Kilbirnie Street fire in Glasgow claimed seven lives 52 years ago
Seven firefighters who lost their lives in a Glasgow fire are being remembered more than five decades since the tragedy.
Sunday, 25 August marks the 52nd anniversary of the Kilbirnie Street fire at a textiles warehouse.
During the fire at Sher Bros’ cash and carry in 1972, Firefighter James Rook became trapped by debris.
Without hesitation, six of his brave colleagues formed a rescue party to save him.
Tragically, an explosion occurred causing part of the roof to collapse on the rescuers.
The fallen were Divisional Officer Andrew Quinn, Leading Firefighter Alistair Crofts and Firefighters Iain Bermingham, Allan Finlay, William Hooper, Duncan McMillan and James Rook.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service honoured them today, (Friday, 23 August), with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Glasgow Necropolis.
The event was attended by Chief Officer Ross Haggart and invited Glasgow dignitaries.
Chief Officer Haggart said: “That night 52 years ago on Kilbirnie Street, Glasgow lost seven of its finest firefighters.
“It is right and proper that we gather each year in the city to honour and remember each one of them alongside their loved ones.
“Their sacrifice to protect their community and each other serves as a poignant reminder of the often-perilous circumstances that firefighters can face.”