THERE were sunny skies over Paradise on Saturday, September 5, as 14 cyclists paid tribute to legendary goalkeeper John Thomson, in aid of Celtic FC Foundation.

Participants set off from Celtic Park at 9am as they embarked on an incredible 64-mile cycle from Paradise to Cardenden, Fife.

The cycle challenge honoured the memory of one of Celtic’s most revered figures, John Thomson, who tragically lost his life following a collision in a match against Rangers at Ibrox in 1931.

In sun-kissed conditions, the group travelled through Moodiesburn, Kirkintilloch, Falkirk, Winchburgh and Inverkeithing, as they traversed canal paths, steep inclines and bone-shaking dirt roads before finally arriving at the resting place of John Thomson in Cardenden.

After stopping to rest and refresh at the Auld Hoose pub, the cyclists made their way to the gravesite of John Thomson to lay a wreath and pay their respects to the Prince of Goalkeepers.

Celtic FC Foundation would like to thank all cyclists for their generosity and dedication as well as our Supporters’ Committee who played a lead role in organising this event.

A special mention must also go to the team of support drivers and volunteers who ensured the safety and well-being of all the participants throughout the day and all the team at the Auld Hoose for providing much needed refreshments. 

Celtic FC Foundation’s four priorities are to improve Health, promote Equality, encourage Learning and tackle Poverty. The net proceeds of this event will assist development of our work supporting routes out of poverty for local children and adults through programmes focusing on education and employability.