Liverpool commend Hillsborough families for ‘courage, dignity and resilience’ after David Duckenfield found not guilty

The families continue to search for justice 30 years on from the tragedy

Liverpool have commended the bereaved Hillsborough families’ “remarkable courage” following the verdict at Preston Crown Court.

Hillsborough match commander David Duckenfield was found not guilty of the gross negligence manslaughter of Liverpool fans.

The verdict sees the Hillsborough families continue their search for justice 30 years on from the tragedy which saw 95 men, women and children die.

And the club have praised those affected for their “courage, dignity and resilience” during extreme adversity.

A statement read: “Following today’s verdict at Preston Crown Court, Liverpool Football Club would like to commend the bereaved families, survivors and campaigners for the remarkable courage, dignity and resilience they have shown during the past three decades.

“With further related legal proceedings listed for April and the restriction for commentary, we share the reactions and frustrations by the families today and those affected by the Hillsborough tragedy.

“The journey that reached today’s stage, and will continue, is testament to the perseverance and determination of all involved in the ongoing campaign for justice.

“We also reiterate that the inquests in April 2016 concluded that the behaviour of Liverpool supporters did not cause or contribute to the Hillsborough disaster. We were disappointed that the allegations were raised again in this process.

“We have immense admiration for the Hillsborough families, survivors and campaigners for what they have achieved and our thoughts remain with them and those 96 Liverpool supporters who went to watch their team and never came home.”