Lord Mayor Councillor Ghazanfer Khaliq praised the emergency services for their bravery and dedication following the riots in Manningham 11 days ago.

He told the full Bradford Council meeting: "I would like to lead the Council in expressing our gratitude and admiration to the courageous men and women of the emergency services, who struggled throughout the day and night to cope with acts of great violence, the like of which have not been witnessed in this country for many years.

"They showed bravery and dedication in restoring peace and order to our community and the city owes them all a huge debt of gratitude. In particular I would like to thank the police for the magnificent contribution they have made."

He also thanked Council officers who worked throughout the weekend supporting the emergency services.

Coun Khaliq added: "I am sure that fellow councillors will wish to join me in the sincere hope that the outrageous actions of a minority will not serve to deflect us from our ongoing objective of maintaining and building upon the excellent community relations for which our city has been justifiably proud."

He said he wanted to put on record the council's horror and dismay following the acts of mindless violence.