A MEMORIAL service is being held to remember the 56 people – including a number from across the Keighley district – who died in the Bradford City fire disaster 30 years ago.

The poignant gathering will take place on May 11, the actual anniversary of the tragic blaze at the Valley Parade football ground.

Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Mike Gibbons will attend the service, at the memorial sculpture in Centenary Square, Bradford, at 11am.

Other guests will include the mayor and mayoress of Lincoln, councillors Brent Charlesworth and Kathleen Brothwell. Bradford City were playing Lincoln when the disaster occurred.

And relatives of those who lost their lives that day will also be among those present.

The service will be conducted by Bradford City chaplain, the Rev Andy Grieff, and the Lord Mayor's chaplain the Rev Canon Philip Gray, supported by Bishop of Bradford the Rev Dr Toby Howarth

Wreaths will be laid, there will be a minute's silence and Abide with Me will be sung.

Cllr Gibbons said: "The Bradford City fire lives long in the memories of the people of Bradford.

"I feel it is very important that we take time each year on May 11 to remember those who lost their lives or were injured by this tragic event, which continues to touch the lives of so many in our district."