'Summerland hard to comprehend': says NFCC 

This week marked the 50th anniversary of the tragedy that claimed the lives of 50 people including children

The National Fire Chiefs Council chair has described the scale of the fire at Summerland as being 'hard to comprehend' adding he could only imagine what emergency services were faced with as they arrived on scene. 

This week marked the 50th anniversary of the tragedy that claimed the lives of 50 people including children. 

As memorial events took place across the Island, the NFCC also reflected on the fire. 

One member, a senior manager with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Ian Brandwood said this week seems an appropriate time to remember those firefighters who fought courageously on that evening to minimise the loss of life in almost impossible conditions.

Mr Brandwood added it is particularly poignant for him as his partner was one of those seriously injured and she lost her mother and her friend Jane in the fire.

@iomfire this week marks the 50th anniversary of the Summerland Leisure Complex fire on the #isleofman, 50 people died & others were injured. Our thoughts are with all affected and the heroic efforts of the fire crews and the emergency services partners. https://t.co/jQl15b8ScY

— National Fire Chiefs Council (@NFCC_FireChiefs) August 4, 2023