A FORMER senior police officer now living in Dorset faces formal questioning over the Hillsborough Stadium disaster.

David Duckenfield was matchday commander when 96 Liverpool fans lost their lives in April 1989.

His decision to open a gate at the Sheffield stadium was cited as the ‘immediate cause of the disaster’ in an official report into the tragedy by Lord Justice Taylor. He had originally claimed that fans barged through the gate.

Now he is due to be formally questioned in the New Year by former Durham Chief Constable Jon Stoddart, who is in charge of the latest investigation into the tragedy, Operation Resolve.

Mr Duckenfield was a Chief Superintendent when fans were crushed to death at the FA Cup semi-final. He retired before disciplinary proceedings against him were completed.

The latest inquiry will see Mr Duckenfield formally questioned for the first time in more than 20 years. The inquiry is also looking at the potential culpability of the Football Association, Sheffield Wednesday Football Club and the city’s council.