MORE than £275,000 was raised for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation when City faced European champions Liverpool FC during pre-season.

The July fixture for the newly-formed charity, which has been launched by City legend Stephen Darby and close friend Chris Rimmer, attracted a gate of 24,343 - the Bantams' biggest crowd since Valley Parade re-opened in 1986.

Darby, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year, has vowed to fight the disease in a bid to find a cure for the condition.

The total sum of £275,422.16, generated via tickets sales, donations, programme sales, and other initiatives, will help fund vital research into the disease.

Darby said: "To raise over £275,000 is an amazing achievement from everybody involved - and everyone who contributed.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone. Let this be the start of our journey, together, to #AttackMND."

City’s director of communications, Ryan Sparks, added: "Together with Liverpool FC and everyone who contributed brilliantly to the cause, we are delighted to have raised so much money for such a fantastic cause.

"July 14 was a historic day for Bradford City, with more than 24,000 people packed into the Utilita Energy Stadium, and it showed just how much Stephen Darby means to the club and our supporters.

"We are right behind him and Chris in their efforts to find a cure for motor neurone disease and are looking forward to working with the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation on future fundraising projects."