Sentenced for vile 'murderers' image

AINSLEY MEANOCK

A YOUNG dad who posted a photograph of a banner branding Liverpool fans "murderers" on his Facebook page has been ordered to carry out unpaid work as punishment.

Liverpool fans were greeted by the slur as they headed to Old Trafford for the Europa League's second leg on March 17 this year.

The large banner, emblazoned with "MURDERERS" next to the date of the Hillsborough disaster, was hung from the bridge over the M602 in Salford.

On that same day, Ainsley Meanock (24), uploaded a photograph of a group of men standing behind the offensive banner as his Facebook cover picture.

Within two hours, the dad of one's post had been screen-grabbed and shared all over the internet by outraged Liverpool fans.

Meanock, of Millbank Close, Oldham, pleaded guilty to a public order offence in relation to the Facebook post at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Monday.

Defending, Charlotte Johnson said Mr Meanock removed the image as soon as he realised how much it had been shared and attended the police station voluntarily.

When quizzed by officers he refused to comment, but gave them a pre-prepared statement admitting he had posted a photograph of the offending banner, the court heard.

However, there was no evidence to suggest Mr Meanock had been involved with the banner or the group on the photograph - and the people responsible for the act remain unknown.

District judge John Temperley said the "obscene" post had been online long enough to be disseminated and offend football fans across the country.

"That's the mischief of the internet," Judge Temperley said.

Johnson's defence solicitor argued that her client was deeply sorry for posting the image. "He fully admits what he did was a completely stupid act.

"I am sure you can tell by his demeanour in court today he is very embarrassed."

She added: "He will be punished by being reminded of his actions every day."

However, Judge Temperley said he was satisfied the Facebook post would have caused "considerable distress" to others.

"Hillsborough is a particularly sensitive subject matter - particularly for the people of Liverpool - and particularly so earlier this year. I am quite sure you were aware of that when posted that on your Facebook page."

Meanock, a civil engineer, was ordered to carry out 135 hours of unpaid work and pay £300 in costs.

He was also ordered to pay a £60 victim surcharge.