FAMILIES who lost loved ones in the Clutha tragedy have been handed a boost in their bid to find answers to how the disaster unfolded.

Ten people, including three from Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, died when a police helicopter crashed onto the roof of the Clutha pub, in Glasgow, in November 2013.

Now it has been confirmed that a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) will be held into the tragedy.

However, prosecutors have also said there is “insufficient evidence” for criminal proceedings.

Gary Arthur, 48, from Paisley, and Neilston man Colin Gibson, 33, were among the Clutha customers who lost their lives in the disaster.

Also killed was 51-year-old Lochwinnoch man David Traill, who was flying the helicopter.

A spokesperson for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said: “The investigation into the Clutha helicopter crash has reached a significant stage and Crown Counsel, the most senior lawyers in Crown Office, have formally instructed a Fatal Accident Inquiry be held.

“Following submission of a detailed report by the Helicopter Team, Crown Counsel have also concluded that there is insufficient evidence available to justify instructing criminal proceedings.

“In coming to this decision, Crown Counsel have considered the evidence available, and the recommendations of the inquiry team, and an assessment of what information may reasonably become available in the future has also been taken into account.”

The Crown has also said it reserves the right to raise criminal proceedings “should evidence in support of that course of action become available to prosecutors.”

Victims’ families have previously criticised the time taken for a decision on a FAI to be made.

The Crown Office said the police investigation involved a “significant volume” of documents and also relied on the co-operation of overseas agencies to make witnesses and material available.

More than 100 people were enjoying a night out at the Clutha when the helicopter, returning to its base on the banks of the River Clyde, crashed through the roof on November 29, 2013.

An Air Accidents Investigation Branch report published in 2015 found two fuel supply switches were off and the pilot did not follow emergency procedures after a fuel warning in the cockpit.

Earlier this month, damages were awarded to people injured in the crash and family members of those killed.

A reported £1.3million was paid by the owners of the helicopter firm to 10 people injured, while cases brought by 16 others affected were settled for undisclosed amounts.

Compensation claims were made to Babcock for post-traumatic stress, serious brain or spinal injuries.