Memorial Service honours fallen firefighters on the 51st anniversary of Kilbirnie Street fire in Glasgow

Today commemorates the 51st anniversary of the Kilbirnie Street fire, a tragic incident in Glasgow that claimed the lives of seven firefighters.

On Friday, 25 August 1972, at 11.20am, the Glasgow Fire Service dispatched crews to the Sher Brothers warehouse on Kilbirnie Street in response to an ongoing fire.

Upon arrival, the firefighters were confronted with a vicious blaze that had engulfed the building.

Tragically, Firefighter James Rook became trapped beneath fallen stock as he tried to exit the premises after a call to evacuate.

Divisional Officer Andrew Quinn led a team of six firefighters on a mission to rescue Firefighter Rook. However, as they ventured into the building, the fire had taken control of the first-floor hardwood flooring, triggering a flashover that resulted in the devastating loss of all seven firefighters.

The fallen were Divisional Officer Andrew Quinn, Leading Firefighter Alistair Crofts and Firefighters Iain Bermingham, Allan Finlay, William Hooper, Duncan McMillan, and James Rook.

Today, we honoured their memory with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Glasgow Necropolis.

The event was attended by Chief Officer Ross Haggart and invited dignitaries.

Chief Officer Haggart said: "The seven firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on that fateful day in 1972 demonstrated unparalleled bravery and dedication to their community.

“Our heartfelt sympathies remain with the families of these firefighters; their unwavering courage continues to inspire our firefighting community.

“Their legacy lives on through the dedication of each firefighter serving today."