Hillsborough: 17 Crucial Witnesses Sought

Images have been released of 17 people who investigators want to speak to as crucial witnesses to the Hillsborough disaster.

The pictures show individuals who tried to help the 96 victims of the fatal crush.

Despite the vital role they played they have never been identified or come forward.

It is thought two of those pictured are police officers, one was possibly a steward and the rest were spectators at the FA Cup semi-final at Hillsborough on 15 April 1989.

The pictures have been released at the request of the coroner at the new inquests into the deaths of 96 Liverpool fans.

A total of 18 images were initially released, but one person has since come forward.

Police say they have scoured hundreds of hours of footage and conducted thousands of interviews but still have no idea who the people pictured are.

Assistant Commissioner Jon Stoddart, from Operation Resolve, the criminal investigation into the disaster, said: "It is important to stress that we believe these people can help the coroner's inquest process.

"I know these pictures are 26 years old but if anyone does recognise the people we need to speak to then I would urge them to get in touch immediately.

"There are still many questions that the families of the 96 have and we believe that these people may be able to provide answers to some of those questions.

"I have a team of highly trained staff in place who will deal with witnesses sensitively as we understand how difficult some people will find this."

Those who lost loved ones at Hillsborough are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Stephen Kelly, whose brother Michael was among the victims, told Sky News it is vital people check the images for anyone they might recognise.

"Even if they see a friend, they recognise their friend from that day, they could just have a word and say please contact Operation Resolve.

"It'll help put that jigsaw puzzle together for the families. We've wanted this for so long and this could be massive to finally come to peace with what happened that day."

Police accept it is unusual to make such an appeal, particularly after so many years.

Anyone who recognises anyone in the images is asked to contact Operation Resolve .