A VIGIL will be held outside St George’s Hall next week on the long awaited day of the release of the Hillsborough files.
This coming Wednesday, the Hillsborough Independent Panel publishes its report into the tragedy that took the lives of 96 football fans.
The people of Liverpool are being invited to gather on St George’s plateau for the 6pm vigil to support the families.
Earlier in the day the panel will publish its much awaited report – which it is hoped will finally reveal exactly what happened on the day and the full extent of any cover-up.
During the vigil, the names of all the 96 Liverpool FC fans that died will be read out and 96 candles will also be lit.
There will be prayers from faith leaders, readings and a performance by a choir.
Margaret Aspinall, chairwoman of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, who lost her son James 18, at the 1989 tragedy in Sheffield, said: “I think it’s a lovely idea, reading the names out and lighting 96 candles will be very moving on what will be a very emotional day.
“I am so appreciative of this being done. It is not only about the 96, it’s also about our city, the fans and survivors.”
People are being invited to gather from 5pm for a period of quiet reflection before the vigil starts an hour later. It will be led by Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson.
Sheila Coleman, spokeswoman for the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, said: “The council clearly wanted to recognise the significance of the day and give an opportunity for the people of the city to show their respect.
“We support the initiative because if was not happening people within the city might feel there was no focal point.
“It’s the support of the people of Liverpool that has enabled the campaign to push for justice and truth.”
Mayor Anderson said the release of the files and the report of the independent panel was something the families had waited 23 years for.
He said: “It is going to be an extremely emotional and traumatic occasion.
“The people of Liverpool need to show our full support to the families and let them know that we are with them at this very difficult time.
“All people have wanted was that the truth be known and for justice for the deceased. We hope the panel’s findings will finally reveal what actually happened on that dreadful day.”
He said the affects of the tragedy are still being felt in the city.
“Everyone in Liverpool knows someone who was touched by the tragedy.
“People will want to not only remember the 96 who lost their lives but also, having waited so long, to share their sadness together as a city and support each other through this emotional time.
“It will be a sombre and respectful service which allows us to come together as we digest the contents of the report and remind ourselves why we must never, ever forget those who died.”
He said the vigil would also pay tribute to the Hillsborough families, who have worked so hard to get answers and have been relentless in their pursuit of the truth.
“This will be a moving event which is a fitting way to mark a momentous and significant milestone, and anyone who wants to come along and be part of it is welcome.”
More details will be released nearer the time about the order of service, which should finish around 7pm.
Lime Street and St John’s Lane will be closed from 4pm.
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-news/local-news/2012/09/03/vigil-to-be-held-at-st-george-s-hall-on-day-of-the-release-of-hillsborough-files-100252-31751389/I'll be there.
