Thousands protest in Skopje ahead of trial over the nightclub fire

Thousands gathered in the North Macedonian capital of Skopje on Saturday in protest over a night club fire in March which killed 63 people.



Families of those killed and their supporters, holding pictures and dressed in black, demanded justice for the victims of the blaze, which broke out during a hip hop concert in Kocani, a town of 25,000 people 80 km east of Skopje.



North Macedonian authorities have charged 37 people in connection with the fire.



Dozens were injured as they scrambled to get out through the unlicensed venue's only exit as flames spread across its roof.



Authorities believe it was set alight by sparks from flares.



A first trial hearing is expected to begin on November 19.