MERSEYSIDE will come to a poignant halt today to mark the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster. Thousands of people are set to stand silent to remember the 96 Liverpool fans who died on April 15, 1989.

Each family will be individually handed their Freedom of the City scroll, along with further speeches from dignitaries and former Reds boss Kenny Dalglish, who was in charge at Anfield at the time of Hillsborough, lighting a candle.

Workers from government buildings around Water Street, Derby Square, Dale Street, Tithebarn Street and Old Hall Street are set to link hands around Exchange Flags at 3.06pm for a two-minute silence.

A statement from the Hillsborough Justice Campaign said: “The idea is brilliant. It is a lovely gesture and show of solidarity and respect.

“Equally importantly, it gives those people who have to be in the city centre on the day the opportunity to pay their respects.”

Artists at the world-famous Moscow State Circus, currently camped at Sefton Park, will also honour the anniversary.

Performances at 3pm and 6pm today will start six minutes later to allow for a one-minute silence.

Cllr Rotheram, a Liverpool fan, said: “The people of Liverpool have observed the anniversary 19 times, but not since it happened has it been so intense.

“Since my inauguration speech as Lord Mayor, despite meeting the presidents of Ireland and India, and the Queen, this was always the most important date in my diary.

“I am one of the fortunate ones, because I swapped my Leppings Lane ticket for a stand seat 15 minutes before kick-off. I have never known what happened to the person who took my place.

“Meeting the families shows how well-adjusted they are, their spirit and determination and the way they have acted is an absolute credit to themselves.”

The Bishop of Liverpool, the Right Reverend James Jones, said: “The anniversary service is an important occasion which allows everyone across Merseyside to mark this terrible tragedy.

“I am sure the people of Merseyside will be united at 3.06pm in their desire to pay their respect to the Hillsborough victims.

“My prayer will be especially for the families and friends of those who died, and for whom the anniversary is a particularly difficult time.”

luke.traynor