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Celtic fans warned to stay away from 'title party'

SNS Celtic fans at the Trongate in GlasgowSNS
An estimated 25,000 Celtic fans attended an informal gathering at the Trongate last year

Celtic fans have been urged not to attend an unofficial "title party" in Glasgow after the last game of the Scottish Premiership season on Saturday.

Thousands of supporters are expected to descend on the Merchant City and Trongate areas after the club lift the league trophy following the game against St Mirren at Celtic Park.

The mass gatherings, which are not supported by the club, Police Scotland or Glasgow City Council, have attracted anti-social behaviour, damage and disruption to the local area in recent years.

However, the local authority said there had been no proposals for a formal "fanzone" event to be held anywhere in the city.

About 25,000 people attended the gathering last year, resulting in 19 arrests, injuries to four police officers and a massive clean-up operation the following day.

Glasgow City Council said a "substantial" amount of litter, debris and broken glass which was left in the area was cleared.

The local authority said the gatherings "robbed the public purse" and described them as "disruptive".

A spokesperson said: "These events and others like them have consistently led to disorder – causing significant disruption for the local community and businesses.

"Damage to buildings and infrastructure robs the public purse of hundreds of thousands of pounds that would otherwise be spent on the essential services we all rely on.

"Enjoy trophy day, but respect the city and your neighbours. Do not attend unsafe and disruptive gatherings in public places like the Merchant City or Trongate."

SNS Celtic fans holding a banner reading 'This is our city'.SNS
Nineteen people were arrested and four police officers were injured during the gathering last year

The council said it would support any move made by clubs or supporters' associations to organise "safe, sustainable celebration events".

However, they added "no application or proposal" had been made for such an event, and there was no chance a "council-led" gathering would prevent "disruptive behaviour".

An Orange walk by the Glasgow County Grand Lodge is due to take place on the morning of the game, but the council said they had received no suggestion of any potential risks after consulting with Police Scotland.

They added the procession was due to start in the east end of the city "some time" before the 12:30 kick-off at Celtic Park and is due to head away from the stadium on its way to the city centre.

UGC A general view of the Trongate and Glasgow Cross after the gathering in 2024UGC
Large amounts of litter and debris were left behind following the gathering last year

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said a "proportionate" policing plan was in place.

He added: "We respect the right to public assembly, however it is everyone's responsibility to ensure their behaviour does not negatively impact businesses or those looking to enjoy our city.

"Please do not gather in large groups and be respectful of those around you."

Celtic have been contacted for comment.