The Hillsborough Family Support Group is mourning the loss of one of their most dedicated crusaders, Phil Hammond, who passed away this week. For over three decades, Hammond fought tirelessly to uncover the truth about the 1989 Hillsborough stadium disaster that claimed the life of his 14-year-old son Philip, along with 96 other Liverpool supporters.
Described by fellow campaigners as a “very kind, fair, honest and humble man,” Hammond chaired the Hillsborough Family Support Group, spearheading the battle for justice in the face of intransigent authorities and cover-ups. His unrelenting pursuit of accountability is credited with keeping the pressure on until the truth finally came to light.
A Father’s Anguish Turns to Activism
On that fateful day in April 1989, Hammond was at home watching snooker when the broadcast was interrupted by news of the unfolding chaos at Hillsborough, where Liverpool was facing Nottingham Forest in an FA Cup semi-final. Despite having no concrete information, he felt an inexplicable “gut feeling” that his son was in jeopardy.
Tragically, his instincts were correct. Philip Hammond, attending his first away match, was among the 97 fans who were crushed to death in the overcrowded stadium, failed by catastrophic mismanagement and the inaction of emergency services. Confronted by this unfathomable loss and the disbelieving aftermath, Phil Hammond channeled his grief into a quest for justice.
Leading the Charge for Truth
As chair of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, Hammond became the face and voice of the families’ campaign, tirelessly advocating for a full accounting of the failures that led to the disaster. For 23 long years, in the absence of any government apology or acknowledgment, he and the HFSG doggedly pursued the truth against a tide of misinformation and institutional denials.
“We do now feel that those responsible should be brought to justice. But it has taken a very big part of my life,” Hammond reflected after finally receiving an official apology in 2012.
– Phil Hammond on the fight for Hillsborough justice
Vindication and Ongoing Battles
In 2016, the tireless efforts of campaigners like Hammond were vindicated when a fresh inquest delivered a landmark verdict, finding the 96 victims were unlawfully killed and citing the numerous failings of police and emergency services that caused or contributed to their deaths. It was an extraordinary, hard-fought victory for the families.
Yet even with this momentous decision, their pursuit of full accountability continues to this day. The Hillsborough Family Support Group under Hammond’s leadership has remained vocal in demanding those culpable organizations and individuals are held fully to account, battling for a Hillsborough Law to advert future injustices.
A Legacy of Tenacity and Unity
Phil Hammond’s passing is a profound loss for the Hillsborough families and all those who have drawn inspiration from his unwavering commitment to righting the wrongs of that day. His life stands as a testament to the power of solidarity and persistence in the face of unimaginable adversity and intransigence.
In the annals of British football history, Phil Hammond will be remembered as more than the heartbroken father of a 14-year-old victim – he will be forever associated with the long march toward truth, justice and accountability for the 97. His legacy is one of tenacity, principle and the unbreakable bonds between families united in grief and resolve.
“A very kind, fair, honest and humble man. Now reunited with his son Phil.”
– Louise Brookes of the Hillsborough Family Support Group
As the city of Liverpool mourns his passing and honors his memory, it is clear that the impact of Phil Hammond’s life’s work stretches far beyond the realm of sports. He and his fellow Hillsborough campaigners have come to symbolize the very best of the human spirit – the capacity to face down the stoniest silence and fight for decades to tell the truth in the name of lost loved ones.
While the Hillsborough families may have lost their leading light, the torch of their collective struggle burns on, fueled by Phil Hammond’s undaunted example. In the words of his home city, he will never walk alone.
