Memorial service marks Bradford City stadium fire anniversary

A service to mark the 27th anniversary of the Bradford City football stadium fire is due to take place later.

Fifty six people died in the disaster on 11 May 1985, when fire broke out at the Valley Parade stadium during a match between Bradford and Lincoln.

Friends and family of the victims are expected to attend the service which will take place in Centenary Square at 11:00 BST.

The commemoration will be led by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Naveeda Ikram.

An investigation held into the disaster found the fire had probably been caused by a lit cigarette dropped under the all-wooden stand, igniting litter underneath the steps.

The day had started out as one of celebration as Bradford players paraded the old Division Three championship trophy around the ground before kick-off.

It marked Bradford City's return to the second tier of English football for the first time since before World War II.

But 54 Bradford City supporters and two Lincoln City fans lost their lives as flames engulfed the stand, with many more injured.

Mrs Ikram said it was important for local residents to remember each anniversary of the tragedy.

"In some ways it touched the lives of most people in the district and people need to reflect and mark the occasion," she said.

Local MPs, Bradford City footballers and representatives of the emergency services are also expected to attend.