Green Plaque Commemorates Bradford Sling Innovation

New plaque recognises medical device’s global impact

A green plaque has been unveiled at the University of Bradford to mark the significance of the Bradford Sling, a medical device developed at the university that has been used worldwide for over 40 years. The plaque also honours the Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU), where the device was created following the 1985 Bradford City fire.

The Bradford Sling and its origins

The Bradford Sling is a simple yet effective device designed to support and immobilise the arm, aiding recovery after trauma or surgery. Its development was prompted by the tragic fire at Valley Parade stadium in May 1985, which resulted in 56 deaths and over 250 injuries, many involving severe burns.

The PSBRU was founded by Professor David Sharpe OBE, the consultant plastic surgeon who led the clinical response to the disaster. Professor Sharpe’s work, supported by Dr John ‘Jess’ Boot, combined medical and engineering research to improve skin graft techniques and burn care. Both men have since passed away, Professor Sharpe in 2023 and Dr Boot in 2025.

Recognition and ceremony

The green plaque was awarded by World Origin Site, an organisation that identifies locations of significant inventions or discoveries. The unveiling event was attended by:

• Professor Ajay L Mahajan, Director of the PSBRU
• Dr Kirsten Riches-Suman, Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the University of Bradford
• Davide Longo, General Manager of Bradford City AFC
• Martin Wilkie, Founder of World Origin Site

Professor Mahajan described the Bradford Sling as a device that has “revolutionised the management of hand injuries or operations worldwide” and noted that royalties from its patent have supported further research at the PSBRU.

Davide Longo highlighted the ongoing connection between Bradford City AFC and the university, emphasising the importance of the PSBRU’s work since the Valley Parade fire.

About the World Origin Site green plaque

The green plaque designation is given to sites where significant inventions or discoveries have occurred. Other examples include:

• St Mary’s Hospital, London, where penicillin was discovered
• The start and finish points of George Stephenson’s first rail journey in 1826
• The location of the first human-to-human heart transplant in 1967

Martin Wilkie said the plaque helps to identify not only the city but the exact location where the Bradford Sling was developed, recognising the innovative work of Professor Sharpe and his team.

Upcoming event

The PSBRU will be featured in the University of Bradford’s ‘From Lab to Life’ lecture, part of the institution’s 60th anniversary series. The event will take place on Wednesday 13 May from 18:00 to 19:30, both on campus and online. It will cover six decades of research aimed at improving health and wellbeing.

For more information and to book a place, visit the Lab to Life website.