It was a record-breaking evening for Celtic FC Foundation at Thursday night’s Annual Sporting Dinner as an astonishing net total in the region of £125,000 was raised.

Sponsored by David McDonald Financial Services, it was yet another tremendous evening of fundraising for the Foundation.

The atmosphere within the room was wonderful throughout as we were joined by over 460 guests, who collectively showed magnificent support through our Live Auction, Silent Auction and Prize Draw.

And the Club’s men's and women's first-teams got right behind our efforts, as guests were treated to Q&A sessions with Celtic manager, Ange Postecoglou, as well as Greg Taylor, Matt O’Riley, Alistair Johnston and Caitlin Hayes.

We also heard from three former Celts – Tom Boyd, Peter Grant and John Hughes – who delighted guests with memories of their playing days with the Hoops.

The vital funds raised will go a long way in assisting our provision, as we aim to support the most vulnerable within our communities.

The main beneficiary of last night’s Sporting Dinner will be our Ability Counts projects. These are grounded on a simple model of inclusivity, companionship, and most importantly, fun.

Initially engaging young people with Down’s Syndrome, the range of delivery has steadily evolved over the years and now also includes sessions for those living with Autism and a stream for those aged 18+, focusing on employability and mature learning.

The projects are delivered in Glasgow, Dublin and Donegal and, through physical activity, sport and team-based play, our sessions allow participants a sense of freedom, affording them opportunities to express their feelings in a relaxed, comfortable environment.

We were also delighted to be joined last night by Eddie McConnell, CEO of Down’s Syndrome Scotland.

Eddie’s son, Finlay, has been supported by our Ability Counts projects for a number of years and it was very poignant, emotional and inspiring period within the Kerrydale Suite, as Eddie shared his family’s story.

Speaking after the event, Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive Tony Hamilton said: “We have been totally overwhelmed and humbled by the outstanding generosity displayed around this year’s Annual Sporting Dinner.

"A truly astonishing sum of money was raised and this will help us enormously, to continue to deliver our Ability Counts projects, among others.

“I’d like to extend our thanks to all of our contributors on the night including David McDonald Financial Services, Ange Postecoglou and members of the first team and Women’s team, our former Celts Tom, Peter and John, Eddie McConnell, everyone who donated prizes, Magners (who generously provided a complimentary drink for all guests), Bell and Bain (who kindly donated the event printed materials) and last, but by no means least, each and every one of the guests who joined us for a memorable and heart-warming evening.”

Celtic Chief Executive, Michael Nicholson, added: “I would like to thank everyone who made last night’s Dinner such a massive success. This is a real flagship event in the Foundation’s fundraising calendar and yet again, it proved to be a special night, in great company.

“It is fantastic to be able to have our supporters and partners here at Celtic Park, working with us to make a positive difference to the lives of others. Sincere thanks to everyone who supported this great event.”

Celtic FC Foundation Sporting Dinner raises record total