Service for Bradford fire victims

The charred remains of the stand that burned down at Valley Parade

People in Bradford have held a minute's silence to remember those who lost their lives in the Valley Parade football stadium fire in 1985.

It is the 24th anniversary of the disaster in which 56 people died.

A memorial service, including prayers, has been hosted by the Lord Mayor in Centenary Square.

The Lord Mayor said: "This is an incredibly significant date for the people and the city of Bradford to come together and remember."

606: IN MEMORY My thoughts are with the families left behind and a prayer for those no longer with us Wamphyri

An investigation held after the fire, which broke out during a game between Bradford and Lincoln, found that it was probably caused by a lit cigarette dropped under the Valley Parade 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 City's return to the second tier of English football for the first time since before the Second World War.

But 54 Bradford supporters and two Lincoln fans lost their lives as flames engulfed the antiquated main stand.

Bradford Council leader Kris Hopkins and the mayor and mayoress of Lincoln also attended the service.

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