Bradford City fan completes ‘56 for the 56’ in time to see Bradford City promoted

A lifelong Bradford City fan has completed his ‘56 for the 56’ challenge in aid of local charity, BCFC Burn Unit Appeal – just in time to see his beloved team promoted to League One. 

On the 3rd of May 2025, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Bradford City Fire disaster, Nathan Charlton, and friend Alex O’Keefe, ran 56km around the Bradford area to commemorate the 56 people who lost their lives in the tragic Valley Parade fire of 1985. 

In the hope of seeing Bradford City AFC secure promotion to League One, they started their run at 6 am, determined to complete the course in time for kick-off. Their route started at Carlton Bolling School in Undercliffe, before travelling to Thornbury, Bierley, Oakenshaw, Shelf, Queensbury, Denholme, Cullingworth, Harden, Bingley, Saltaire, Apperley Bridge, Greengates, City Park, and finally, Valley Parade.  

Commenting on the challenge, Nathan said: “I’ve been raised as a Bradford fan my whole life - both my parents and grandparents are avid fans. Bradford City haven’t had the easiest time in recent seasons, but this season feels special. The club is back on a winning streak and now promoted to League One. That this all happened in the 40th anniversary year of the fire feels poetic. 

“The Bradford Burns Unit continues to support so many people, and I wanted to do something to give something back, whilst hopefully seeing my team promoted.” 

Nathan’s grandparents were at Valley Parade on the day of the fire and are part of the inspiration for his charitable efforts.  

“My grandad has organised fundraising events for the local burns unit for years, raising thousands. I felt it was time someone else in the family helped with his fundraising efforts.  

“The run wasn’t easy. I struggled with a chest infection earlier in the week, which made the full course gruelling. Thankfully, I had my friend Alex with me for the full course, and we had support from friends, family, and runners from our sponsors, Places for People. Their support on the day was invaluable.”  

Ahead of starting the ultramarathon, Nathan had already hit his target, so ongoing donations will help Bradford’s Burn Unit to do even more vital work. Nathan Charlton is fundraising for BCFC Burns Unit Appeal  

“I’m ecstatic with how generous people have been. Every pound raised helps the Burns Unit deliver more care and support to those in need. I’m hoping for one last fundraising push to support this vital service in our community.”   

Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North Developments at Places for People, commented: “What Nathan accomplished is remarkable. Supporting him in his quest to raise money for a local charity was a pleasure. In times of need, you really see the true sense of community. The story behind his fundraising efforts resonated with us, as it reflects what we aim to achieve when developing new communities. I'm thrilled that my colleagues were able to join him on the route and that PfP could sponsor such a worthy cause.”

Nathan completed the route in just over six hours and 30 minutes, arriving at Valley Parade just in time for kick-off to watch Bradford City AFC beat Fleetwood Town and secure their promotion.