A groom is hoping the biggest day of his life will be in a league of its own as he kicks off married life tomorrow.

Chris Hall, 28, has been a Bradford City fanatic since he was a young boy, going to matches with his best friend and father.

Now the senior mechanical engineer has persuaded his girlfriend Julie Blyth, 24, to allow him and a handful of guests to wear cravats in claret and amber on the big day and ordered a cake in the shape of the Bradford City badge.

Chris, of Thackley, said: "I am the biggest City fan ever and I knew straightaway that I would have to have some Bradford City reference on my wedding day."

The ceremony will take place at the Bradford Cathedral and the reception will be held at Oakwood Hall, Bingley

He said: "I asked my fiancee if we could stop off at Valley Parade after the ceremony and have a picture taken on the pitch but Julie refused."

Though Julie is not a big football fan, her interest in Manchester United at the beginning of their relationship was not a threat, said Chris.

Nonetheless, he is pleased her interest in the Red Devils has now waned.

Chris has gone as far as having a Bradford City tattoo on his calf muscle.

"I had intended having it on my shoulder but the tattooist said the colours wouldn't take so I had it on my leg instead."

But though Chris braved the needle, he avoided wearing shorts for a year to avoid the wrath of his mother, Hilary.

"I kept the tattoo hidden for ages and it is a bit unusual I suppose. But my mum thought I was daft for hiding it from her."

Those wearing the cravats will be the groom, the best man -who is the groom's brother, Simon - page boy, two ushers and bride's father, David.

"They all know that Bradford City mean the world to me, my day wouldn't be complete without them."

Chris's mum, Hilary, 56, said: "I cannot believe how much he adores them. When the new shirts come out he queues up for ages and is a true supporter. He is a lovely son, they are a lovely couple and I wish them lots of luck."

Today Bradford City chairman Geoffrey Richmond said: "It is absolutely fantastic news and the whole club wishes the couple the best of luck and a fantastic day.

"And hopefully many a Saturday afternoon down at the Bradford and Bingley stadium supporting Bradford City."