Anne Williams from Formby...This week marks two years since passing of courageous campaigner

Anne with her brother Danny at the Royal Courts of Justice

Hillsborough disaster 26th anniversary: Sara Williams on why she misses her mum so much, while families of the 96 are stronger than ever

The spirit and determination of Hillsborough families is stronger than ever, says the daughter of the late campaigner Anne Williams.

This Saturday (April 18) will see Sara Williams mark two years since her mum lost her battle with cancer barely six months after standing with families, survivors and supporters at St George’s Hall in the aftermath of the watershed Independent Panel report of September 2012, which set in motion the new inquests currently ongoing in Warrington.

Now 35 and with two children of her own, Sara got engaged recently but has decided her wedding must wait until her mum’s mission in getting new verdicts for Kevin and all the 96 is fulfilled.

Anne Williams with children (right to left) Kevin, Sara and Michael

“It is hard to believe it’s two years mum’s been gone and 12 months already since the inquests began with the family portraits”, said Sara, who will be taking part in this weekend’s Run for the 96 5k in memory of Anne and her brother Kevin.

He was just 15 years old when he went to Sheffield for his first Liverpool away game in 1989 and never came home.

“Standing up in court to speak about Kev on behalf of my mum was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do but I knew how important it was and somehow they both gave me the strength to get through it.

“Those first few weeks, either side of the 25th anniversary when family after family had to tell the court about their loved ones, were incredibly difficult for all of us but everyone did so well. It was heartbreaking but it made me feel so proud.

“It hasn’t got any easier since and I think we all realise it’s going to be even more upsetting as this year goes on but this is what we’ve fought for all these years and it’s got to be seen through to the end.

“What keeps us going is the love we have for those we lost and the need to support the survivors, many of who are still suffering, as well as the amazing support we get from the countless people who care about Hillsborough.

“So many people are so kind and it really does help to know we never walk alone. I just wish mum was here to see how the tide has turned after all her hard work. We all miss her so much.”

Story Photos and Source: Southport Visiter