Michelle Stewart Secretary of the families C-Diff Justice Group said:

“The announcement is a tremendous victory for the families who have fought for over a year to ensure there is a full public inquiry into what really happened at the Vale of Leven.

“A public inquiry will mean that we can finally put the matter to rest because at last we will know the truth about how our loved ones died.

“And it will mean that no other families will have to go through the agonies we have all suffered since the outbreak started claiming lives 18 months ago.

“We have to thank our local MSP Jackie Baillie and Patrick McGuire of Thompsons Solicitors for the support they have given throughout our campaign.”

Solicitor Advocate Patrick McGuire of Thompsons said: “Winning a public inquiry at this stage is a tremendous achievement and one the families should be extremely proud of.

“It is now vitally important that the families are fully consulted in setting the terms of reference for the inquiry and we will be taking immediate steps to ensure that happens.”

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon announced the inquiry at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday April 22. It will be chaired by Lord Coulsfield.