A hearing before Sheriff Principal Craig Turnbull at Glasgow Sheriff Court heard that legal aid has been partially granted to the families of Samuel McGhee, Mark O’Prey and Gary Arthur.

Dr Lucy Thomas, fiancée of pilot David Traill, is privately funding her representation.

On 29 November 2013, a helicopter carrying out operations on behalf of Police Scotland crashed into the Clutha Bar in Stockwell Street, Glasgow

Anthony Lyndon Collins, Joseph Robert Cusker, Colin Gibson, Robert James Jenkins, John McGarrigle and Kirsty Mary Nelis also died in the tragedy.

The FAI into the tragedy will take place at Hampden Park from April 8.

Louise Arrol, counsel for the father of Mr McGhee, James Diver, said it was hoped a charity would contribute to the legal costs.

On behalf of Dr Thomas, it was stated that her funding for representation “will run out” but that she cannot apply for legal aid until that has happened.

Sheriff Principal Turnbull noted that it had been suggested Dr Thomas might not be eligible for legal aid. The inquiry heard her salary was “significant” but that the Scottish Legal Aid Board can use its discretion in deciding whether to grant her legal aid.

Clutha owner Alan Crossan said the charity he established in the wake of the disaster intends to help fund the families’ legal costs.

A preliminary hearing will be held next month.