Celtic FC Foundation is today announcing that two devoted and long-term Trustees are to retire from their roles.

Chris Traynor, Chairman of the Board for the past 12 years, and Eric Riley, who’s involvement in charity at Celtic FC goes back to 1994 with the Club’s Charity Fund, will both depart after dedicating several years of service to the Foundation.

Over the years, Chris and Eric have contributed their expertise and passion towards bettering the lives of people in need in Glasgow and beyond, and everyone at Celtic FC Foundation wishes them well in their future endeavours.

Former Chairman of the Board, Chris Traynor said: “It has been a privilege to help lead the Foundation for the last 12 years. The organisation’s growth during this period has far excceded my expectations.

“This success would not have been possible without the hard work of my fellow Trustees, and in particular the team at the Foundation. It would also not have been possible without the exceptional and persistent support of the Club’s executive team and the Plc Board.

“That said, I believe that there remains significant potential to develop the organisation further in the future, and I have every confidence that the Trustee Board and the management team are very well placed to fulfil that potential.”

Former Trustee, Eric Riley said: “I am delighted to have been heavily involved in the charitable activities of Celtic FC for almost 30 years, initially serving the Celtic Charity Fund from 1994 and then as a Trustee with Celtic FC Foundation since its inception in 2013.

“It has been an honour and a pleasure to be part of an expanding organisation which helps so many good causes and which focuses on bettering the lives of people in need. Over the years the great work that has been undertaken has enabled the Foundation to grow and I hope that we have provided a platform for continued growth going forward.

“I thank everyone who has helped me but, more importantly, has assisted the Foundation over that period of time. I wish the organisation and all concerned much continued success and have no doubt that it will go from strength to strength.”

Two new trustees will be appointed to the board to ensure a seamless transition. Paul Geaney, a Trustee of Celtic FC Foundation, inc. in the USA and Chairman of the New York Gala Committee, brings with him a wealth of experience in supporting Celtic FC Foundation’s charitable causes in the USA and beyond.

Joining Paul is Barry McCaig, a partner of Pinsent Masons Law Firm and long-term supporter of the Foundation.

Chief Executive of Celtic FC Foundation, Tony Hamilton said: “I can’t thank Eric and Chris enough for everything they’ve contributed to Celtic’s charitable work over such a long period of time.

“I am delighted that Barry and Paul are stepping in and I’m excited about what the future looks like for Celtic FC Foundation both at home and in other parts of the world.”