Class action case against Celtic FC over alleged abuse of boys delayed until next year

More than 20 former players of Celtic Boys Club have joined the action, The Times reports.

A hearing was meant to take place at the Court of Session this week but was postponed after Celtic provided lawyers representing the claimants with boxes of handwritten boardroom documents.

Laura Connor, head of Thompsons Solicitors’ historic abuse unit, said more time was needed to analyse the files.

“I understand there is much interest in this case and my team is completely focused on progressing matters,” she said. “After protracted discussions Celtic FC have shared a large number of significant documents.

“These are now being assessed and we need more time to do this properly. That is why the hearing planned for this week has now been moved to March.”

Four men connected with the boys’ club have already been convicted of sexual offences against young players.

Another two with ties to Celtic FC and the now-defunct Celtic East Youth Club, were also found guilty of serious offences against boys.

The claimants seek compensation from Celtic FC.

Counsel for the claimants, Ian Mackay KC, said in February that the boys club and main club were “intimately connected”.

“Players played in Celtic strips and wore blazers which were virtually identical to those worn by Celtic FC players,” he said. “Football kit, holdalls and training gear was provided by Celtic FC.

“Celtic Boys Club trained at Barrowfield, the training ground of Celtic FC and Celtic Park.”

“Because of the controlling hand of Celtic in the boys’ club, we say that Celtic FC are vicariously liable,” he said.

A club spokesman previously said: “Given the ongoing legal proceedings, it is not appropriate for us to provide any comment. However, we would reiterate that the club is dealing with these sensitive matters in a responsible manner and in conjunction with its advisers.”