A commemorative plaque has been unveiled to mark the sacrifice of firefighter Norman Nolan, who lost his life in the line of duty on the 22 October 1971.
Firefighter Norman Nolan, aged 28, died tragically while fighting the Texas Mill fire in Ashton Under Lyne.
Firefighter Nolan was mobilised to Texas Mill from Blackley, when a large fire was reported as spreading from the cellar. 30 fire engines were called due to the density of the smoke and “appalling conditions”. While standing on an external fire escape, a sudden building collapse buried the firefighter under rubble.
The plaque unveiling ceremony was attended by Mr Nolan’s family and friends, as well as active and retired firefighters. Speakers included Greater Manchester FBU brigade secretary Dave Pike, Greater Manchester Deputy Chief Fire Officer Ben Norman, and a local councillor on behalf of Angela Rayner MP. Speeches were be followed by a recital by an FBU piper.
A replica smaller Red Plaque will be installed at a rebuilt Blackley Fire station in the near future.
Dave Pike, FBU Greater Manchester brigade secretary said:
“Fifty-two years after firefighter Normal Nolan gave his life in the line of duty, the Fire Brigades Union is proud to honour his memory with a Red Plaque funded by the Firefighters 100 Lottery.
“His brave sacrifice is remembered by many across the Greater Manchester and beyond. This moving tribute will sit proudly in Ashton-Under-Lyne and will provide a place for reflection and remembrance for firefighters and the public. By coming together, we will ensure that Norman Nolan is never forgotten.”
