Families of MH17 victims gather for memorial at St James' Park

Family and friends of two football superfans who died on board MH17 will gather at the stadium where they spent some of their happiest times.

Friends John Alder, 63, and Liam Sweeney, 28, were travelling to New Zealand to watch their beloved Newcastle United play in a pre-season tour when they were killed one year ago.

The club created a memorial outside St James' Park for the fans whose memories have been kept alive by fans applauding in the 17th minute of every game.

Liam's father Barry travelled to Holland this week to meet other bereaved families, and said: "It was very emotional. All went well from start to finish.

"I have met lots of nice people out there.

"We will be in touch forever."

Mr Alder's family will also be at the memorial.

The superfan had missed just one Newcastle match in 40 years and he was the first to buy a Platinum Club membership at the stadium.

An anonymous friend has pledged £5,000 to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to take over the bond which gives fans enhanced membership.

Mr Alder's sister Joyce Robbins said: "The last year has been a rollercoaster really.

"It's difficult to explain.

"Sometimes I've felt like we were living someone else's life.

"We've had so much to do and become so involved with John's life, even though he wasn't here, that it's been like walking in his shoes. We became his representative.

"It's been very difficult, and extremely painful at times, but we've had fantastic support from so many people, from football fans, Newcastle United, and so many strangers, too many to name.

"And by helping the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation we feel like we're doing something positive.

"It's been a focus on something good in a bad situation and that's really made a difference for us all."

His widow Lady Elsie joined her at John's seat in St James' Park ahead of the memorial, and said: "It's impossible to understand what John and Liam's family and friends have been through in the past year.

"To lose someone you love is desperately hard but to lose someone in such cruel circumstances is unimaginable.

"We're very grateful to everyone who has supported the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and other wonderful charities in John and Liam's names.

"The money raised will go on to help other people in their time of great need and we hope both John and Liam would share their families' pride at that."

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation funds the fight against cancer.