Georgia Thornton became well known amongst City fans during the 2017/18 season, after she began handcrafting claret and amber ribbons to commemorate her late grandmother.
However, demand for the ribbons soon grew far beyond 12-year-old Georgia’s family, with Bradford City supporters from across the country noticing her handiwork across social media.
Although fans attempted to pay Georgia for the ribbons, she instead decided to donate all the money raised to the Plastic Surgery and Burns Research Unit (PSBRU).
As many City fans will know, PSBRU was founded in 1985 following the fire disaster at Valley Parade and - with the £4,000 Georgia has already raised - they can continue to conduct their invaluable research.
The club were keen to recognise Georgia’s incredible efforts, and as such, the Thornton family were invited to join us at our 2017/18 Player of The Year awards back in May.
However, given the influx of personnel over the last few weeks, it was decided that Georgia and her parents should get the chance to meet some of our new recruits, and tell them firsthand all about the fundraising effort.
Club captain Josh Wright was left "humbled" by Georgia’s story and believes everyone at the club can take something from the way in which she turned a personal tragedy into something so positive.
Wright said: "Georgia deserves a lot of credit for what she has achieved. For a young girl to give up so much of her time and work so hard to raise money for charity is incredibly impressive.
“When you sign for Bradford City, you can sense there is a family feel to the place and it is obvious the supporters have a special bond with the club. Seeing the way in which the fans have supported Georgia’s fundraising efforts just epitomises that.
“As a player, it is important when you join a club that you take the time to understand its history, especially here, where the tragic events of 1985 are still so strongly remembered.
“I think having Georgia down to speak with us, explaining why we raise money for PSBRU just helps the new players understand the bond between the fans and the club.”
Bradford City will continue to support Georgia in her fundraising efforts throughout the season.
If you would like to purchase a ribbon, search Twitter for @BCAFC_RIBBONS and information on how you can purchase one is there. Ribbons require a £1 minimum donation.