27 years ago the terrible events of Saturday 15th April 1989 shocked this country and devastated a community. Ninth-six men, women and children lost their lives as the result of a crush developing in the central pens of the Leppings Lane terrace at Hillsborough Stadium during a football match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.
Yesterday the fresh inquests into the 96 deaths at Hillsborough gave its determinations and findings, finding that every single man, woman and child was unlawfully killed. This is a profound result for the families who have campaigned to uncover the truth of what happened on the 15th April.
The Home Office Secretary made a statement this afternoon to the House of Commons including paying credit to fans and their valiant efforts to rescue those caught up in the crush.
I remember even now the shock I felt 27 years ago when I heard the news of the tragedy at Hillsborough. I remember the impact the experience had on one of my classmates on my college course who had been at the match. It is indefensible that only yesterday did families finally win their fight against the lies and injustice that has intensified their grief.
Criminal investigations are now underway and these are expected to conclude at the end of the year.