The Hillsborough report has found that police and ambulance service statements were doctored in an attempt to blame Liverpool supporters for the disaster.

In the aftermath of the crush that cost 96 people their lives, the police claimed that violent behaviour by drunken and ticketless Liverpool fans was the main cause.

However, having reviewed more than 450,000 documents that had previously gone unseen, the panel concluded: "The evidence shows conclusively that Liverpool fans neither caused nor contributed to the deaths of 96 men, women and children."

Bishop of Liverpool the Rt Rev James Jones added: "The documents disclosed to and analysed by the panel show that the tragedy should never have happened.

"There were clear operational failures in response to the disaster and in its aftermath there were strenuous attempts to deflect the blame onto the fans. The panels detailed reports shows how vulnerable victims, survivors and their families are when transparency and accountability are compromised."

A press conference is due to take place 1.30pm this afternoon where more revelations are expected.