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Football fans should be allowed to stand at Premier League grounds, the Lib Dems said today.

Standing was phased out following the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in which 96 Liverpool fans died at the Sheffield stadium during an FA Cup semi final against Nottingham Forest.

Lord Taylor’s report into the tragedy recommended scrapping terraces in a bid to boost safety.

But supporters have since complained about the loss of atmosphere and having to fork out extra cash for seats.

(Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

As fans flock to matches over the festive period, the Lib Dems want standing brought back.

Under the party’s plans, clubs would be allowed to work with supporters to create standing areas where clubs can offer cheaper standing season tickets.

The Lib Dems highlighted research showing 92% of fans and 70% of clubs in the UK want standing reintroduced.

(Image: John Peters)

Party leader Tim Farron , who supports Blackburn Rovers, said: “Safe standing is allowed in many other sports and we do not believe that the top level of football should be an exception.

“When clubs and fans are in favour of safe standing and it can be done safely, then the Government shouldn’t get in the way.”