Summerland families 'encouraged' after meeting Andy Burnham in their campaign for a fresh inquest

  • ITV's Joshua Stokes outlines the latest developments from the Summerland site

Campaigners calling for a fresh inquest into the Summerland fire say they are 'very encouraged', following a meeting with Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.

The 'Justice for Summerland' campaign is calling for a fresh inquest into the fire that killed 50 people, and injured many more on the Isle of Man in 1973.

Members of the campaign met with Andy Burnham on Monday 1 September, hoping he would join the existing political support for a new inquest.

Mr Burnham has been a vocal advocate for the Hillsborough families, campaigning with those fighting for justice around the fatal crowd crush in 1989.

Speaking after the meeting, Summerland survivor Jackie Hallam said: "There were a few bereaved family members at the meeting and listening to our stories, we really thought he was getting behind us then.

"He really listened intently and he was very supportive of our plight, he was very encouraging indeed".

Campaigners to appeal decision to decline a fresh inquest into Summerland fire
The Summerland fire killed 50 people and injured many more. Credit: ITVX

Campaigners had submitted an application to open a new inquest into the fire earlier this year, however this was subsequently declined by the Isle of Man Attorney General.

Led by the lawyers representing the families, the campaign is planning to appeal the decision made by Walter Wannenburgh.

A 'petition of doleance' has been lodged by the group, which is awaiting approval from the Isle of Man Courts of Justice, before an official appeal can be submitted.

Jackie said she hoped the Attorney General would review his decision to deny the families a fresh inquest.

She said: "I would say to the Attorney General that you can still write the wrongs of the past. All we are seeking is truth and justice for our loved ones, so please give us a chance to be heard by putting an end to this court process, and granting a new inquest."

'I don't accept it': Hillsborough campaigner backs new Summerland inquests
Margaret Aspinall also joined the online call, after meeting with Summerland survivor Jackie Hallam in July. Credit: ITV Granada Reports

The Isle of Man Government was also contacted, and released a written statement which read: "The Summerland fire leaves a deep and lasting legacy on the Isle of Man’s recent history and across our community to the present day.

"The Isle of Man Government is grateful for the opportunity to comment. However, as any challenge to the Attorney General’s independent ruling is subject to established legal procedure, it would be inappropriate to do so prior to the Court making any determination."

Campaigners now await to hear from the Isle of Man Courts of Justice, to confirm their petition of doleance has been successful.

Andy Burnham has also been contacted for further comment.

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