The inside story of the Stardust as told to the inquest: ‘Jesus Christ, the doors are locked’

Catherine Fegan writes about the devastating night of Friday, February 13, 1981

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Catherine Fegan

Sixteen-year-old Martina Keegan had finished work early to make sure she had enough time to get ready for the night ahead.

It was Friday, February 13, 1981 and a ‘Valentines night disco’ competition, sponsored by record company K-Tel, had been advertised at the Stardust. All her co-workers from Superquinn, where she had a part-time job, were going and Martina was desperate to join them. After some deliberation, her parents allowed her to go, but only if her older sisters or brother were going. As Martina got changed into her carefully put together outfit, a boob-tube top, a lurex belt and a pair of black trousers, she was giddy with excitement.