Liverpool Chief Executive Ian Ayre Praises Fans

 

Ian Ayre has praised the dignity of Liverpool supporters and campaigners after an inquest jury concluded the 96 football fans who died in the Hillsborough disaster were unlawfully killed. The Anfield chief executive paid tribute to Reds fans in a statement on Tuesday and said the football club welcomed the findings of the jury.

Jurors concluded that the behaviour of fans did not cause or contribute to the tragedy, which happened when supporters were crushed before an FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest on April 15, 1989. The unlawful killing conclusion was reached by a majority of seven to two of the jurors.

Ayre said “After 27 long years the true verdict has finally been delivered, confirming what the families always believed their loved ones were unlawfully killed. Liverpool Football Club welcomes the jury's decision, once and for all, that our supporters were not in any way responsible for what happened at Hillsborough. We will always remember the selfless bravery and heroism of the many fans that helped their fellow supporters in the most harrowing of circumstances that day. We praise those who, since the beginning of the inquest, have had to find the courage and strength to re-live what they went through. Since April 15, 1989, the solidarity shown by Liverpool fans towards the families and survivors encapsulates the unique character of both the club and city. We are also hugely thankful for the unwavering support the wider football community has so generously shown these past 27 years. It has been a painful journey for the families and survivors, who have endured and sacrificed so much for so long. The resilience and dignity they have shown throughout their tireless campaign has been humbling and inspirational. Their conduct and actions throughout their struggle has brought pride to the city of Liverpool and will serve as a lasting tribute to the victims. The 96 men, women and children who were unlawfully killed at Hillsborough will never be forgotten”.