Bradford City fire disaster memorial service to be held online

The annual memorial service marking the 35th anniversary of the Bradford City fire disaster will take place online instead of in Centenary Square due to coronavirus restrictions.

At 11am today the service will pay tribute to the 56 lives that were lost in 1985 when flames took hold of a stand at Valley Parade stadium as Bradford played Lincoln City. Hundreds more people were also injured in one of the world's most devastating sporting tragedies.

Readings and prayers will be delivered through the club's and council's social media channels by representatives and colleagues from across the district.

Commemorative wreaths have been placed at the Utilita Energy Stadium and in Centenary Square on behalf of club officials, Bradford Metropolitan Council and Lincoln City.

Valley Parade will be closed on May 11 and the club has asked supporters to adhere to social distancing guidelines until further notice.