UP TO 2,000 people stood in silence yesterday to mark the 25th anniversary of the Bradford City fire disaster, which left 56 football fans dead.

Former Bradford City and Everton player Stuart McCall attended the service, closing his eyes for much of the ceremony as he clutched a wreath. Bradford’s Centenary Square was a mass of claret and amber scarves and shirts as survivors, supporters and the city’s VIPs joined together to mark the anniversary with an outdoor service.

The tragedy at the Valley Parade ground on May 11, 1985, shocked the nation.

After singing the football anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone and an address from the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, the crowds gathered beneath the City Hall clock fell silent.Bradford City Supporters Trust chairman Alan Carling said: “It (the service) recalled the depth of emotion of the fire and the effect it’s had on lives, especially the fans who suffered. But, also, how it drew the community together . There’s no sense Bradford is over this. It’s got a permanent place in the hearts and minds of Bradford.”Sport Minister and Bradford South MP Gerry Sutcliffe, who was at the service, said he hoped the tragedy would continue to be remembered.