Faith leaders are calling for a peaceful rally tomorrow when thousands are expected to gather in protest at a possible war in Iraq.

And a robust police operation aims to ensure the rally is problem-free.

Protesters will assemble in Lister Park, near Oak Lane, at noon for the march through the city centre.

They include faith leaders, Yorkshire CND and Bradford Stop the War Coalition.

In Centenary Square, representatives from various groups will give speeches.

The Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend David James, will join the march and speak at the peace vigil.

He said: "All the churches in the country overwhelmingly want peace for Iraq and we want to give expression to that desire, saying: give peace a chance.

"Peace in Iraq is so important that for the first time in 20 years, I feel I must march for peace and I hope that others in Bradford of whatever faith or none will join us. I expect it to be a peaceful protest march."

He added: "If there is a war, countless innocent people will suffer and no nation will benefit.

"In Iraq, 45 per cent of the population are under 16 - we must think of that first and foremost.

"Saddam Hussain is a tyrant but we should not demonise the people of Iraq who have suffered enough. Neither should we demonise the United States where many people oppose the US policy, including church leaders.

"I hope there will be marches and prayers for peace until the threat of war recedes."

A police operation has been planned to ensure the safety of those involved.

Chief Superintendent Phil Read, the commander of Bradford North police, said: "We have a duty to facilitate people's rights to express their views peacefully.

"We will be policing this event appropriately, to make sure the rally passes off without incident."

Key junctions will be closed while the procession passes and motorists are asked to be patient.

Methodist minister, the Reverend Geoff Reid, of Bradford's Touchstone Centre, is leading the peace vigil at 3pm.

He said: "I hope that people from Bradford churches will give as much support as they can on January 18.

"The Muslim Association of Britain is putting its weight behind this event too."

Sabiha Hussan, a Muslim member of the Interfaith Women for Peace, said: "It is important that everyone should show their solidarity."