The bravery of those killed when a massive explosion ripped through a Bradford chemical works in 1916 will be finally recognised this month.

A memorial plaque commemorating the lives of 38 people who lost their lives in the blast at Low Moor Chemical Works will be unveiled on Wednesday.

A total of 104 people, many living in the area, were also injured in the blast, which damaged trains at the nearby railway station and shattered windows of houses two miles away. The victims included munition workers, firemen and police officers.

Today, Wyke ward councillor Danny Mangham, who will unveil the plaque in Victoria Park, Oakenshaw said: "They were playing their part in the war, working on munitions. But, while there has been recognition for other heroes from the district, there was nothing official for them all."

Executive member for the environment, Councillor Anne Hawkes-worth, said many people had treasured memories of those who died and she was delighted to have been involved.

The memorial was also welcomed by leader of the Liberal group, Coun Jeanette Sunderland, who said: "This is part of Bradford's industrial heritage, and a lot of lessons were learned which contributed to today's health and safety regulations."

The Council's Labour group leader Coun Ian Greenwood said: "I think it is extremely important we remember our heritage and particularly the sacrifices which were made."

Edith Bower, whose father Fred Normington died in the blaze with five other firefighters and was posthumously awarded a fire service medal for his gallantry, said she was pleased to see the public recognition.

But fire chiefs are still trying to rescue an ornate memorial to the six officers which has been vandalised in Scholemoor Cemetery.

They want to remove the 15 foot marblestatue, which has been chipped and daubed with graffiti, and transport it to their headquarters in Birkenshaw where it would be illuminated. But they have problems because the cemetery is listed and it will be difficult to get permission for major alterations. They will also need planning permission from Bradford and Kirklees councils.