FORMER Merseyside chief constable Norman Bettison could be targeted individually in a legal claim by Hillsborough campaigners.

Elkan Abrahamson, lawyer for the Hillsborough Justice Campaign and Anne Williams, said he was exploring action against Mr Bettison, who was forced to quit as West Yorkshire chief constable last week after pressure over Hillsborough cover-up allegations.

The Dale Street-based lawyer today told the ECHO of the numerous legal avenues being investigated.

He has taken advice from a group of barristers in London about the possibilities of taking action for misfeasance in public office.

He said: "It will be primarily be against police officers involved in the cover up.

"We are looking at proceedings against Bettison individually. Partly because his name has emerged and because he himself is disclaiming all responsibility and that seems to be in contrast with the picture from the Hillsborough Independent Panel report. That is something we need to get to the bottom of.

"So we are looking into whether he should be named individually in civil proceedings."

The IPCC is investigating Mr Bettison for his role in the cover-up after the disaster. He denies any wrongdoing.

Mr Abrahamson will meet Home Office officials on Friday to discuss financial support for the inquests and other legal issues.

The partner at Broudie Jackson Canter will also press for funding for counselling for the bereaved and survivors.

He said: "One of the issues is that with it all coming up again there is a need for counselling again.

"We are worried that what is in place is not enough to cope. When the inquests are held it will be much worse for families and survivors.

"It needs central government funding, it’s not something Liverpool council can do from its budget."