YOUNG footballers from Bradford and abroad competed in the 32nd annual Valley Parade Memorial Tournament over the weekend.

Teams from junior clubs across the district took on sides from Bradford City, Lincoln City, and the German city of Hamm at Marley Sports Centre in Keighley.

The competition has seen more than 12,000 players take part since 1986, with all participants receiving a medal sponsored by the Prison Officers’ Association (POA).

In the under 12s competition, Lincoln beat Hamm in a penalty shootout, but Hamm got their revenge in the under 14s event, beating Lincoln 1-0. Bradford City’s sides reached the semi-finals in both age groups, finishing third overall.

Paul Evans, one of the organisers of the Bradford-Council run event, said: “It’s been really successful yet again, and we had the Lord Mayors from both Bradford and Lincoln here yesterday, which was great to see.

“Everything ran smoothly, and the tournament has had long-standing sponsors such as the POA who were here once again to support us.”

The memorial tournament was created by the Council's former chief recreation officer Howell Williams.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the authority's executive member for sport and culture, said: "This is about friendship through football, taking part, having fun, and playing the game with the right spirit.

"This tournament also helps us to not only remember the past, but also celebrate the future of football in Bradford and the district."

POA national chairman, Mike Rolfe, added: "While the tournament was born out of a tragedy, it gives us a time to reflect and remember.

"Over the years it has developed to represent much of what is good in society by promoting friendship through football."