Tributes to Hillsborough campaigner who lost teenage son in the disaster

A father who helped 'lead the fight for justice' after his son was killed in the Hillsborough football stadium tragedy has died, according to a campaign group.

Phil Hammond, the former chairman of the Hillsborough Family Support Group (HFSG), was remembered as a “very kind, fair, honest and humble man” by other people bereaved by the 1989 disaster.

He became a driving force in the campaign after his 14 year-old son, Philip, died in a crush at the stadium in Sheffield, which resulted in the deaths of 97 Liverpool fans during the club's FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest.

Hillsborough Survivors Support Alliance said on X: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Hammond, who was once the chairman of the Hillsborough Family Support Group. Reunited with his son Philip. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who knew him .”

Liverpool FC added: “All at LFC are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Hammond. He lost his 14-year-old son Philip at Hillsborough, went on to become chair of the Hillsborough Family Support Group and helped lead the fight for justice for the 97. RIP Phil. YNWA”

In a tribute on X, Louise Brookes, whose brother Andrew died in the tragedy, said she was “extremely saddened” to hear of Mr Hammond’s death and described him as “a very kind, fair, honest & humble man”.

A Liverpool City Council spokesman said: “This is sad news indeed. Phil was a lovely man. His role in the fight for truth and justice over the Hillsborough disaster will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.”

Mr Hammond worked with support group solicitor Ann Adlington to gather documentary evidence that was sent to the Home Office and led to then-home secretary Jack Straw ordering a new probe. He grew up in