Hundreds of Bradford youngsters will get a free trip to the Millennium Dome, after the city's celebrations went pear-shaped because there was no official party.

West Yorkshire Police were branded party poopers after the Council called off its big bash in Centenary Square over public safety fears.

But the city will celebrate after all with a special day at the Dome on October 16 to tell the story of Bradford.

Around 100 young people will take part in a 20-minute theatre show for visitors from across the country. And 500 free tickets will be available to other Bradfordians.

Valerie Jackson, from the Stage 84 Theatre School, said it was already working on a production. "We feel delighted and privileged," she said.

Council officers will meet this week to discuss how to allocate the tickets, but most are expected to go to children, disadvantaged and community groups.

Possible themes for the theatre production, which will be performed three times during the day, include Bradford's history and the 20/20 Vision being drawn up to make the district a better place in which to live, learn, work and play.

There will also be a video wall and exhibition space available in the Dome where those taking part can showcase their district.

As part of the deal between the Dome and official sponsors of the community programme, fast food giants McDonalds, all towns and cities in the country have been offered a day at the Dome.

Most of the travelling and accommodation costs of the young performers will be sponsored by McDonalds, and further funding will be provided by the Council and sponsors.

Lord Mayor Councillor Harry Mason said: "This is a great opportunity for our youngsters to show off their talents in unique surroundings.

"It's bound to be an awe-inspiring experience for everyone involved and I hope they will enjoy the production, which will aim to give the audiences a taste of the district's cultural mix.

"I have seen some wonderful productions involving young people in Bradford, particularly those put together by Stage 84, so I am looking forward to seeing the show that we will be taking to London.

"This is a wonderful chance that's come our way, which will allow us to also publicise many of the good things which are happening in our district."

Council leader Councillor Ian Greenwood said: "It was a great disappointment that we did not have the party. I'm delighted with this."

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