On September 5, 1931 Celtic’s goalkeeper, John Thomson, sadly lost his life aged just 22, following a collision during a match against Rangers at Ibrox.
Back in 2011, almost 50 supporters marked the 80th anniversary of his passing with a pilgrimage, recreating the steps that thousands took from Glasgow to Fife in 1931 to attend his funeral.
90 years have now passed since that fateful day and, in honour of the ‘Prince of Goalkeepers’, Celtic Graves Society (CGS) – in association with the John Thomson Memorial Committee (JTMC) – have organised another pilgrimage from Celtic Park, to his graveside in Cardenden, to mark the anniversary.
Celtic FC Foundation are honoured to have been given the opportunity to take part in the pilgrimage. Whilst not specifically a fundraising event, CGS/JTMC are very generously encouraging and welcoming participants who would like to raise funds for Celtic FC Foundation and their own nominated good causes. We are delighted that a group of supporters have already committed to taking part in the event and fundraising for Celtic FC Foundation and we would be thrilled should any further participants opt to do the same.
The pilgrimage will take place across three days from Friday, September 3 – Sunday, September 5, culminating in the annual memorial ceremony at John’s graveside, on the Sunday afternoon.
The three-day pilgrimage will consist of 54 miles in total, split as follows:
Day 1: Friday September 3 – 25 miles – Starting at Celtic Park
Day 2: Saturday, September 4 – 18 miles
Day 3: Sunday, September 5 – 11 miles – Finishing in Cardenden
As part of the pilgrimage, CGS will provide participants with water and snacks and support vehicles will also accompany the pilgrimage for the duration.
Supporters are invited to join the three-day pilgrimage or alternatively, take part in any of the three daily legs.
CGS and the JTMC also invite those who would like to pay their respects, to join the memorial ceremony at Bowhill Cemetery at 3pm on Sunday, September 5.
For further information or to register your interest, please contact CGS at [email protected] , on twitter @CelticGraves or on Facebook Facebook.com/CelticGraves/
Upon registration, CGS will provide full information on the route, accommodation options, travel etc.
If you would like to support Celtic FC Foundation through your efforts please let us know via email at [email protected] or call 0141 551 4321 and we will provide you with a sponsor form and information on how to set up an online fundraising page.
As always, thank you for your wonderful support.
