The Rt Rev Dr Nigel Peyton, Bishop of Brechin says:
“I was at Hillsborough as a Nottingham Forest supporter and watched in dismay as the disaster unfolded. It was chaotic, simply awful.
“On a beautiful spring day bodies of crushed Liverpool supporters from the overcrowded terracing began to litter the pitch.
“Before the game I shared drinks with Liverpool fans in a pub near the ground – there was never bad feeling between the clubs. I am delighted that the stain of blame on the Liverpool fans’ behaviour has been removed. Forest fans will also be relieved by today’s verdict.
“I kept my match day programme in which the chairman of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club praises the facilities and safety of the stadium. The day’s events and today’s verdict show otherwise.
“The inquest has determined that ninety-six fans were killed unlawfully. My heart goes out to the Liverpool families who have been so tenacious and dignified in pursuit of the truth over so many years. Maybe they can finally get the closure they so deserve.”
Bishop Nigel spoke on ‘Sunday Morning with…’ programme on BBC Radio Scotland on Sunday 1 May – which can be heard here (begins at 1:05:01 – presenter introduces topic; Bishop Nigel’s interview starts at 1:05:50 and ends at 01:11:56)
Bishop Nigel was also interviewed on Premier Radio – interview can be heard here
