New Cross Fire 45th Anniversary Memorial Service
On 18 January 1981, the New Cross Fire tragically led to the deaths of 14 young Black people. 2026 marks the 45th anniversary of that tragic event.
A memorial service took place on Sunday 18 January 2026 at St Andrew’s Church, Brockley.
The service, led by Rev John Grundy, was an important opportunity to gather to commemorate and honour those who lost their lives in the fire in 1981, and to remember their families and survivors.
Speaking at the event, Baroness Brenda Dacres, Mayor of Lewisham , said:
"Many young people in Lewisham and across the country know this story. They remember. They learn. They carry it with them. In that remembrance, a light continues to shine on the legacy of those we lost.
"What happened was an injustice that should never have occurred. A heartbreak that no family should ever have had to endure. But today, 45 years on, our community stands together in unity with the families, survivors and loved ones. Offering support. Offering love. Offering solidarity.
"May we continue to remember. May we continue to stand together in unity. And may their lives never be forgotten."
Also speaking at the event were Baroness Floella Benjamin; Deputy Lieutenant for Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock; London's Deputy Mayor, Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service Jules Pipe CBE; and Professor Patrick Vernon OBE.
Present dignitaries included Academy Award winning director Sir Steve McQueen, Dawn Butler MP, Vicky Foxcroft MP, and London Fire Brigade Commissioner John Smith.
Following the service, guests were invited to a reception with a Caribbean food buffet kindly provided by New Cross restaurant Cummin’ Up.