A LAWYER acting for the bereaved families in the Clutha bar helicopter crash has welcomed the crown office decision to begin a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) - almost five years after the disaster.

Patrick McGuire, a partner in Thompsons Solicitors, which acts for several of the Clutha families said, however, it has taken too long to reach this stage.

His comments come after the crown office announced on Friday that the FAI will begin in April next year.

Ten people died when a police helicopter crashed onto the roof of the Clutha pub in November 2013. Among them were pilot David Traill, and crew Pc Tony Collins and Pc Kirsty Nelis. Seven customers also died including John McGarrigle, Mark O’Prey, Gary Arthur, Colin Gibson, Robert Jenkins, Samuel McGhee and Joe Cusker.

Mr McGuire said “ This is very welcome news from the Crown Office although it has taken far too long for us to reach this stage.

“A Fatal Accident Inquiry is the only way that the families of those who lost their lives will be able to learn what happen to their loved ones on that awful night almost five years ago.”

He added: “The FAI will also be able to make recommendations that will hopefully prevent a similar accident from ever happening again. I hope that the Crown Office will make sure that the families are at the very centre of this process, are kept fully informed of all developments, and are treated in a compassionate and sympathetic manner.”

The planned inquiry into the circumstances of the disaster will take place at Hampden Park, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 3.

Those affected by the tragedy have been informed of the development, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) said.

It was announced in November last year that an FAI would be held, with some victims’ families critical of the time taken for a decision to be made.

More than 100 people were at the pub when a helicopter, returning to its base on the banks of the River Clyde, crashed through the roof.

An Air Accidents Investigation Branch report published in 2015 found two fuel supply switches were off and the pilot did not follow emergency procedures after a fuel warning in the cockpit.

The Crown Office has previously stated there is insufficient evidence for criminal proceedings.