A BANNER to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Burnden Park Disaster has been installed at the University of Bolton Stadium - after fans came together to bring the idea to life.

The flag contains the names of the 33 people who died as a result of the tragic human crush which occurred during the second leg of an FA Cup quarter-final tie against Stoke City on March 9, 1946, at Burnden Park.

Some fans died after being crushed against steel barriers which gave way.

Others were trampled during the tragedy - which became the deadliest stadium-related disaster in British history until the Ibrox Park disaster in 1971.

Emblazoned on the flag, measuring 14x7metres, is the message ‘RIP The 33. We will never forget.’

Steven Green, 58, who works at Severfield engineering factory in Lostock, came up with the idea which was well received by Wanderer’s supporters.

He said: “It’s often called the ‘forgotten disaster’ because outside of Bolton, not many people are aware it ever happened.

“It’s important that these people are remembered because no one should die attending a football match and it had a huge effect on the town.

“This banner will honour fellow Bolton supporters who lost their lives doing what they loved and will form a lasting tribute for many years to come.”

After suggesting it to members of Bolton Wanderer’s Remembrance Group, a donation page was set up, and £910 was collected in just 22 days, from 74 contributors.

Alan Mather, who heads up the online community, which boasts more than 5,000 members, said: "It's great to see all the guys here today to put up the flag.

"We set up the Bolton Wanderers Remembrance Group in 2019 after attending a wake of an old friend, Alan Parkin.

"We decided we didn't see each other enough.

"Now, we get out into the community, working with various charities including the Bolton Wanderers Community Trust, Bolton Hospice and addiction charity, Whysup.

"It just goes to show how strong the football community is in Bolton."

​Paul Holliday, Wanderers' head of communications , said: "On the 75th anniversary, and day of the Cambridge game, the players will be wearing black armbands and there will also be a minute's silence to remember those who died at the disaster, as well as the hundreds more who were left with lifelong injuries.

"It's a poignant moment in the club's history."