HUNDREDS of players have taken to the field this weekend for the 30th annual Valley Parade Memorial Tournament.

The competition, held at Keighley's Marley Activities and Coaching Centre yesterday and today, commemorates the tragic events of the fire disaster on May 11, 1985, which claimed the lives of 54 Bradford City supporters and two from Lincoln City, who Bradford were playing that day.

More than 320 youngsters took part in under 12 and under 14 tournaments, with crowds also treated to exhibition matches featuring a Bradford City veterans side, disability teams, and supporters groups.

The junior teams competing were Bradford City, Lincoln City, Salts, Queensbury Celtic, Silsden, Bingley, Sandy Lane, Bradford United, BFD Horton Sports, and sides from Bradford's German twin-town of Hamm.

Since the event began in 1986, more than 12,000 players have taken part in the tournament, which is organised by Bradford Council’s Sport and Leisure Service, and sponsored by the Prison Officers’ Association.

Lifelong Bantams fan Carl Dalton, manager of Bradford Council’s Community Play and Activities Development Unit, was in the main stand on the day of the fire, and has led the organisation of the event since 2000.

"It's been fantastic, and everybody has really embraced the spirit of the tournament," he said.

"It's about commemorating the tragic events of 1985, but also focusing on the relationships and friendships that have come out of that tragedy.

"The competition is not the main focus, it is about friendship through football.

"It is a living memorial, and thousands of young players have benefitted, with many going on to become professionals.

"It is testimony to the power of sport that we can surround the tragedy with something so positive.

"I am immensely proud that we are here 30 years down the line, and I want to see it continuing for another 30 years."

Hamm beat Bradford City 2-1 in a closely-fought under 12s final yesterday, with City beating the German side 2-0 to win today's under 14's competition.

Olaf Gottner, who was involved in organising this year's teams from Hamm, said: "We're very proud to be invited, and all the boys know about the special anniversary this year.

"They are very excited to be playing, but they also know how serious it is to remember what happened all those years ago.

"Coming here is a tradition, and so many people and families have become great friends through the tournament."

Graeme Tomlinson, who scored six goals in 17 appearances for City before a £100,000 move to Manchester United in the summer of 1994, captained the Bradford veterans side, who beat a Prison Officers' Association veterans team 3-1.

"The standard seems to improve every year, and it's great to see so many kids involved," he said.

"It's fantastic to be asked to be here, and it's great to come back and see some old faces. Mums and Dads come down to support their kids, and it's a real family atmosphere.

"It's really important for Bradford that the event keeps going, and long may it continue."