Hundreds of demonstrators called for no more air strikes on Iraq at a peaceful cross-community rally in Bradford.

About 300 people attended the event in Centenary Square yesterday despite freezing temperatures and the decision by British and American governments to call a halt to military action for the time being.

The mainly Muslim demonstrators were joined by several representatives from Christian groups in calling for a end to bombing amid anger over the plight of civilians in Iraq.

The organiser of the protest, Mubarak Hussain, said it had been a good turnout considering Ramadan had begun and that military action had been called off on Saturday night - although it was well below the 1,000 people initially expected.

"What we are doing is condemning the suffering of innocent people in Iraq," he said.

Among the speakers, which also included Labour and Conservative councillors and religious leaders, was the Rev Geoff Reid, team leader of the Methodist Touchstone Centre in Merton Road, Bradford. The Iraqi people were victims of a dispute outside their control, he said.

"What has happened in the last week has been bad for the Iraqi people and therefore has been bad for Bradford."

Coun Qasim Khan (Con, Toller Lane) condemned both the British and American governments and Saddam Hussain.

"We don't support him or his regime - we support the people of Iraq against the bombing of their country,'' added Coun Khan.

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