The Crown Prosecution Service has today confirmed that criminal charges against Norman Bettison in respect of the Hillsborough disaster have been discontinued.

The decision was taken following a review of the evidence and was confirmed at a hearing at Preston Crown Court this morning.

Norman Bettison had been charged with four offences of misconduct in public office which related to telling alleged lies about his involvement in the aftermath of Hillsborough and the culpability of fans.

A package of measures to improve the way that the criminal justice system deals with stalking and harassment has been unveiled today.

The measures - introduced by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) - are a significant shift in the way such cases are dealt with.

Central to the package of measures is improved direction for police and prosecutors about how to recognise the difference between stalking and harassment and respond effectively.