JOE Anderson is calling on the entire city to come to a halt this Tuesday, to mark 25 years since the Hillsborough disaster.
The people of Liverpool are being urged by the Mayor to unite and observe a one-minute silence at 3.06pm, the exact time at which the fateful match was stopped, in remembrance of the 96 people who lost their lives in the Hillsborough tragedy.
Church bells across the county, including Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, Liverpool Parish Church (Our Lady and St Nicholas) and the Town Hall, and as far afield as Holy Trinity Church, Southport, will ring 96 times, to commemorate each life lost in the disaster.
Ferry
The Lime Street media wall will display an image of those who lost their lives in a visual tribute to the 96 from 2pm – 5pm and flags on council buildings will be flown at half-mast throughout the day.
In addition, public transport has been encouraged to stop for one minute at 3.06pm, the Mersey Ferry will be mid-river but will remain static and blow its funnels, and barriers at both Mersey Tunnels will be lowered for the full minute.
Mayor Anderson said: “This year marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Hillsborough tragedy and the families’ long fight for justice. Not only is it the 25th anniversary of the tragedy but we also have the start of fresh inquests into how the 96 lost their lives.
“We will never forget those who died at Hillsborough, and this is a day for us to unite as a city and remember each one and also their families and friends left behind.
“I urge everyone in Liverpool, and across the region, to observe the minute’s silence, stand shoulder to shoulder and remember the 96 fans that went to a football match and never returned home. Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones today.”
Mayor Joe Anderson and Lord Mayor of Liverpool Councillor Gary Millar will also take part in a private service for families of the 96 at Liverpool Town Hall before attending the official memorial service at Anfield.
During the service a candle will be lit by Young Lord Mayor, James Douglas and a minute’s silence will be held to pay respects. This will be followed by prayers led by Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, The Right Reverend Tom Williams and Chaplain to the Lord Mayor, Reverend John Williams MBE RN.
Country
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Gary Millar said: “The strength, courage and dignity shown by the bereaved families and survivors over the past 25 years is an inspiration to us all.
“I also call on the entire country to join the city of Liverpool as we remember those affected by Hillsborough.”
Deputy Mayor Councillor Roz Gladden will join representatives from Sheffield City Council laying wreaths at the Hillsborough Park Memorial Garden in Sheffield. There will also be a small service for families at the Hillsborough memorial outside the ground at Sheffield Wednesday Football Club which is being organised by Sheffield City Council.
