Hillsborough survivors' bench to be created at Anfield
Liverpool Football Club today unveiled plans for the installation of a new bench at Anfield that will recognise the survivors of Hillsborough and serve as a permanent reminder of their strength, unity and courage.
The specially designed bench, which will be installed later this year and is pictured above in an artist's impression, will be located on 96 Avenue opposite the Hillsborough memorial at Anfield.
The design features a pattern of interlocking lines etched into the bench, which represent the multitude of scarves that adorned the Kop and pitch in the immediate aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster, demonstrating unity and solidarity.
LFC has been working with the families on ideas to create something lasting that acknowledges survivors and all those who have come together to support the campaign. The new Main Stand has provided a suitable area on 96 Avenue, close to the Hillsborough memorial, to produce this fitting tribute that will be named the Survivors' Bench.
A special plaque will also be installed in front of the bench reading:
“Liverpool Football Club and families of the 96 extend their eternal gratitude to those who endeavoured to save the lives of others at Hillsborough on the 15th April 1989, and to all survivors and the wider football family who supported the campaign for truth and justice for so long.
You'll Never Walk Alone.”
On Saturday April 15, players and staff across the club will fall silent at 3.06pm to observe a minute's silence to mark the 28th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
This year there will be no Hillsborough Memorial Service held at Anfield, at the request of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, following the conclusion of last year's inquest.