Army veterans are expected to be charged with murder within a fortnight over the deaths of Bloody Sunday protesters during the Troubles 47 years ago, The Telegraph understands.

Well-placed sources have suggested that four ex-paratroopers, now in their 60s and 70s, fear being told on March 14 they will face murder charges in connection with the notorious shootings in Londonderry in 1972.

Fourteen civilians were killed and another 14 wounded when the soldiers from 1 Para opened fire on a civil rights demonstration in the city.

Prosecutors in Northern Ireland will meet with victims’ families on March 14 before making the long-awaited announcement on whether former soldiers will stand trial.

A press statement will be read out in the city at an event to which television news crews have been invited.