Celtic urge fans not to attend unofficial title party

Celtic urge fans not to attend unofficial title party

Celtic Football Club is cautioning its supporters against participating in an unapproved “title party” in Glasgow following the conclusion of the Scottish Premiership season. It is anticipated that thousands of fans will gather in the Merchant City and Trongate areas of the city on Saturday to commemorate the club’s championship victory after the match against St Mirren at Celtic Park. However, Celtic is now advising fans not to attend due to safety concerns and the objections of local residents and city authorities.

Past gatherings have resulted in incidents of anti-social behavior, property damage, and disruption to the local neighborhood. These events do not have the backing of Police Scotland or Glasgow City Council, with the latter denouncing similar past unofficial celebrations as “disruptive” and economically burdensome to the public. This unsanctioned revelry is expected to coincide with a significant Orange walk scheduled in the city on the same day, although it commences in the morning. Police unions have criticized this decision, mentioning that approximately 500 police officers will be on duty in the Glasgow city center on Saturday.

A spokesperson for Celtic expressed that while prior celebrations by fans were well-meaning, they had led to severe congestion, hindering emergency services, residents, and local businesses. Without the necessary planning, facilities, and infrastructure of an authorized event, the sheer number of fans in attendance has raised safety concerns. As a result, the club is encouraging supporters to refrain from participating in large public gatherings lacking adequate safety measures.

Last year’s unofficial gathering prompted 19 arrests, injuries to four police officers, and extensive cleanup efforts. Tricia Fort, chair of Calton Community Council, described previous events as disruptive for residents near the Trongate and Glasgow Cross areas. She emphasized the need for alternative arrangements to alleviate the strain on the local community. Glasgow City Council reported no safety concerns from the Orange walk after consulting with Police Scotland, but the Scottish Police Federation voiced astonishment at the decision to hold both events on the same day

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