GLENN Dixon was a huge Celtic fan, who like so many, enjoyed watching his beloved Hoops in the company of friends. When he was unable to attend Celtic Park, he would regularly take in games at his local Irish Centre in Tyneside.

He was a popular individual, known for his caring and compassionate nature and his desire to help others. On the surface, Glenn appeared to live a happy life. However, inside he was suffering with ongoing mental health issues.

Despite having the support of a wonderful family and a host of friends, Glenn simply could not find a way to seek help for the problems he was facing. In August last year, Glenn began to display signs of suicidal ideation. He was admitted to hospital for his own safety, where he underwent a mental health assessment.

Glenn was scheduled to attend sessions to help deal with his mental health issues. Sadly, however, he was unable to continue the battle and in November last year, Glenn tragically took his own life, aged just 32.

To honour Glenn’s memory, his family and friends are now aiming to raise awareness of mental health issues in the hope that they help others to seek the support they may desperately need. They are also looking to raise funds to support both Celtic FC Foundation and their local mental health support service, Tyneside and Northumberland Mind.

Today (Saturday), they are set to embark upon an eight-day walk which will see them trek 150-miles from the Tyneside Irish Centre to Celtic Park - a fitting tribute to Glenn’s life. Monies raised will be shared equally between the two nominated charities.

Speaking ahead of the walk, Glenn’s father, Richard Dixon said: “We are determined to honour Glenn's memory by raising awareness of mental health and we hope that this will encourage others to seek help and talk openly about it.

“We are also aiming to raise as much as we can for two wonderful charities which are close to our hearts. We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of those who have donated to our cause and by the kindness of the worldwide Celtic Family.”

Through their efforts so far, Glenn’s family and friends have raised a phenomenal total in the region of £8,000 for Celtic FC Foundation and Tyneside and Northumberland Mind, with fundraising ongoing.

The group are due to arrive at Paradise next Saturday, August 31, where they will pay tribute to Glenn by visiting the paving stone which has been laid at Celtic Park in his memory.

You can support their wonderful efforts by making a donation HERE

To Paradise for Glenn: Family to honour Celtic fan in charity walk